Alabaster Connection January 2019

ALABASTER

CONNECTION THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF ALABASTER | JANUARY 2019

SILURIA BREWING CO:

AN ALABASTER DESTINATION pg. 12

THS FOOTBALL A SEASON TO REMEMBER

ALABASTER INFRASTRUCTURE

SUICIDE PREVENTION: KNOW THE SIGNS

pg. 8

pg. 10

pg. 14

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FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF ALABASTER Alabaster Connection is published monthly and is delivered to citizens of the City of Alabaster.

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Happy New Year Alabaster!! May 2019 bring blessings beyond measure to each & everyone! We have just experienced a season full of various moods and feelings, from the fun and magical to the deep and grateful spiritual celebration in the birth of Christ. And Thompson High School’s trip to the State Championship game for the first time in 36 years! The energy and pride in the Marty Handlon, community was off the charts! All those mood swings can be exhilarating and Mayor exhausting. Christmas brings out the best in us—we are more aware of the City of Alabaster hurting around us, more generous and more hospitable to perfect strangers, and we’re drawn to friends and family that we’ve been too busy to visit throughout the year. Our community is full of people who are living like it is Christmas throughout the year. We try to capture moments, events, or organized efforts to share that with you through the Alabaster Connection. It builds on the existing pride we have for our community. If you know of these opportunities, or special “movers and shakers” we can spotlight, please share them with us!

It has been a very busy year in our city, including some internal changes in personnel and organizational structure. I’m excited about new ideas and opportunities, which flow from fresh eyes on the operations of our organization. I expect 2019 to be an exciting year of growth all the way around.

Development continues to happen around our city, and more are interested in being in our market.

The road projects we have been talking about for the last six years are becoming a reality. We have heard the contractors working on the widening of I-65 have been incentivized to work expediently, and you can certainly tell it is working. Thompson Road has been a long and slow project, but it should be completely finished before Easter. Included in this newsletter is an article I contributed on behalf of cities around the state and the League of Municipalities, and it provides more detail on the subject than was reported by a local news channel. Please take a moment to read it for education and awareness, as these discussions will be a big part of the upcoming Legislative Session. None of us are in favor of new taxes just for the sake of it, but many of us realize our road issues are serious, and it is time to address the problem head on.

There have been many concerns expressed about the change in junk and rubbish (not tree and limbs) service. I feel like our reasons for the change and message have been distorted. The main reason for this change is not cost, but the mandates placed on the city for our own MS4 permit, an annual audit of that permit by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, and repeated requests and warnings by the County Landfill. We initially pointed out the increase in cost because it is the measurement we have which shows how much the problem has grown and continues to get worse.

We are working diligently to come up with alternative ways to provide this type of service before April. Please be patient as we thoroughly vet each idea. “…Another year is over, and a new one has begun...” Lyrics which indicate the need for reflection, assessment, and new dreams. As we evaluate our professional and personal goals for 2019, prayerfully consider your personal footprint, 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!

Police 24-Hours 663-7401 Alabaster Water Board 663-6155 Fire Department 664-6818

1953 Municipal Way Alabaster, AL 35007 ©2018 City of Alabaster

THIS EDITION

FEATURES

4 Council Comments 22 Beautification Board 23 Around Town 26 Calendar 30 CC Meeting Minutes

6 MLK Jr. Day 7 Scale Back Alabama 8 THS Football 10 Infrastructure Update 12 Siluria Brewing Co

SPOTLIGHTS

17 18 20 21

Business Spotlight Employee Spotlight Citizen Spotlight Alabaster Helps

COUNCIL COMMENTS

Scott Brakefield

Ward 6 | City Council President Greetings! I hope that everyone had a Merry Christmas and are off to a great start for the New Year! With the start of the new year comes those new year resolutions. Often those come in the form of taking better care of ourselves. If you are beginning your 2019 with those thoughts, I would encourage you to check out all the local gyms/ fitness centers in the Alabaster area. I am sure they have you covered with all the weights, exercise equipment and programs to assist you in losing those pesky holiday pounds.

I would also like to take this time to congratulate the Thompson Warriors on a wonderful season. Although they fell one win short of their ultimate goal, they had a tremendous season and had the community buzzing all year long. Not only did the community notice, but so did the sports writers. Our Warriors were recognized with many post season awards! Congrats on a great season.

Lastly, I want to comment on the curbside junk and rubbish pick up. Due to environmental regulations and rising costs, the City Council voted to discontinue the every-week pick up that is currently in place. The every-week schedule will come to a halt beginning in April of 2019. During public hearings and through numerous emails, we heard from our residents about the need to keep this service. We have been working on alternative plans to keep the service in place. It will be scaled back and have some limitations in place to help us meet our regulations as well as offset the rising cost at the landfill. We hope to have an announcement in late February or early March as to what this new service will look like, and how you can take advantage of it. Until then, continue to utilize the Junk and Rubbish service just as you always have. As a reminder, the curbside brush and limb service will be unchanged.

I hope you have a great 2019! Scott

Sophie Martin | Ward 1

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Progress continues in Ward 1. For safety purposes, new street striping has been requested for several Ward 1 neighborhoods. Some include Ironwood, Weatherly Club Drive and Alabaster Boulevard.

The work will be completed as soon as the temperature increases. This ensures the material will properly set.

According to the developer, the development plan for District 31 is in its last stage of being finalized. As soon as the development plan is approved, dirt will be moved and construction will begin on this project. The process has taken longer than anticipated, but will definitely be worth the wait.

Thank you to the Alabaster residents who attended the recent public hearing regarding monthly large item service pickup. cityofalabaster.com

The City will continue to pick up large limbs, branches, shrubbery, etc. on a weekly basis. Over the last several years, there has been a 75% usage/cost increase for large item pickup such as couches, chairs, barbecue pits, etc. Due to MS4 compliance requirements, the county's request since the items are taken to their landfill, and the additional amount of crew and equipment needed to handle the increase - we are diligently looking at other satisfactory solutions to this issue without having to raise the rates of our citizens. Nothing will go into effect until April, but we’ll keep you updated on this issue as a plan is put in place.

It is an honor to serve as your council representative. Please feel free to contact me at martin@cityofalabaster.com.

Have a blessed and happy 2019! Sophie

Rick Ellis | Ward 2 Happy New Year! I hope that everyone had a wonderful Holiday season. I am really looking forward to 2019! The coming year promises to be an exciting year for our community. I would first like to say congratulations to the Thompson High School football team for finishing 2nd in the state. It was a fantastic year for Coach Freeman and all of the players! Although the year did not end the way they wanted it to, they accomplished a tremendous amount this year and have a lot to be proud of!

I know that it is probably really cold outside and my next item may seem out of place, but registration for spring youth sports will be coming soon. So, keep an eye out for an announcement from the Parks and Rec Department concerning the sign-up dates for different sports. It will be here before you know it.

If you are like me, every year I seem to make the same New Year’s resolutions to eat better and exercise more (that usually doesn’t last long). However, if you are planning to make New Year’s resolutions for the upcoming year please consider a resolution to support our locally owned businesses. This will not only help our local economy here in Alabaster but will also help support a neighbor who has chosen to put their business in our community.

I am really looking forward to continuing to serve you in 2019. So please feel free to contact me if you need anything. I can be reached at ellis@cityofalabaster.com. I look forward to hearing from you. Rick

Stacy Rakestraw | Ward 3 Once again, the nuisance of the Birmingham News/Life packets has come up, and several complaints have come in due to the littering issue as some residents are letting them pile in their driveway. If you would like to opt out of this delivery, please go to

COUNCIL COMMENTS this link: www.birminghamnewsextra.com or call (205) 325-4444 - it can take up to ten days. We are continuing to discuss services to replace our current “Junk and Rubbish” curbside pick up that will end April 6th, 2019. Some options we are discussing are: • Paying the tipping fee for each Alabaster resident who takes a load to the Shelby County Landfill throughout the year.

• Offering a roll off located at a designated location one Saturday a month, in the city for residents to bring items to locally.

• Twice a year, curbside junk/rubbish pickup April and October.

• Also, a possible “as needed reservation service” so residents can make an appointment with the City public works departments for those wishing to have curbside service once a month. There would be a limited amount of reserved spaces each month and a small fee for this type of service. It would be more convenient for those who do not have access to a truck or trailer for hauling off large items and bagged junk and rubbish.

Another topic of conversation is what type of business is selected to go on a piece of property. When a private landowner sells their property, the purchaser can build whatever they like, as long as it falls within and adheres to all zoning requirements as well as an overlay district requirements the city has. It is a misconception that the city always chooses what “brand” of business goes in a particular location. They do not necessarily check with the city first. Our work sessions and regularly scheduled pre-meeting and meetings are all open to the public. Plus, you can contact any of us at any time to ask questions, voice concerns or maybe give a compliment to our city services.

All of our contact information is located on the back of this newsletter and online at wwwcityofalabaster.com/ Have a great new year! Stacy

Greg Farrell

| Ward 4 As we start 2019, we are hopeful to see many projects get underway within the City, some being the start of a new Police Headquarters, District 31 beginning construction, and the I-65 project. Hopefully the Hwy 119 project will be back on the table as well. It was great to see the Community support for the Thompson Warriors Football team as they played for the State Championship, though they fell short of their goal. I would like to congratulate Coach Freeman and the program for their great success this past year. We were told that the Thompson Road project might not be completed until early Spring of this year.

Not what we wanted to hear, but remember this is a County Road project, not a City project. Greg

Russell Bedsole | Ward 5 In a blink of an eye, 2018 has come and gone. With the close of

one year, we welcome in another. Happy New Year, Alabaster! May you and your family be blessed like no other in 2019.

About this time each year, I always reflect on what the next year may hold. The ringing in of the new year has always been an opportunity for new beginnings and fresh starts. I encourage everyone to use this time to reset priorities and focus your efforts in the new year to make a difference in our community. What can you expect from your city in 2019?

-Your Mayor and Council are finalizing plans on new and improved junk and rubbish services. We are very hopeful that an improved service will help us meet our governmental responsibilities while offering top notch service for you.

-City staff is working on the predesign phase of the construction of our new police and court justice center. We hope to have architecture and design drawings for the public to see in the near future.

-The finalization of road projects such as Thompson Rd and I-65 should occur - expect to hear more updates on the much needed Hwy119 widening project.

-We expect to begin to see visual work on the District 31 retail development. There has been so much work going on behind the scenes.

I have only scratched the surface of all the exciting things that will happen in our city in 2019. Thanks for a great 2018 and I look forward to serving you in 2019. Russell

Kerri Pate

| Ward 7 Another year has flown by and I find myself reflecting on many happenings in our city.

A few topics come to mind when I think of 2018...1) Expansion of 119 - will it ever happen? 2)Junk and rubbish pick up 3) District 31 - will it ever happen? These topics evoke all sorts of emotions, mainly frustration. I appreciate each email, phone call or visit regarding these topics and many more: 1) We placed a moratorium on any new residential growth along 119 to help ease some frustration while we are waiting. Our Mayor, local legislators, myself and fellow councilors have all been advocating relentlessly to the state for this to begin.

2) I think you all will be satisfied with the solutions to altering our junk and rubbish pick up (be watching for more details) 3) District 31 developers are still very diligent and the situation is fluid - we hope to see dirt moving in the first part of 2019! More ways to shop & dine locally!

Thanks to my fellow residents who have applied to serve on various boards in our city. Please visit our website to find ways to get more involved. May your 2019 be filled with health, happiness and kindness. Thank you friends! Kerri cityofalabaster.com

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FEATURE

5

WAYS TO CELEBRATE MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY

M

artin Luther King, Jr. Day is observed the third Monday of January every year. It was originally signed into law by President Ronald Regan to mark the birthday of Dr. King as a federal holiday. Americans first observed the holiday in 1986. In 1994, Congress designated the holiday as a national day of service and charged the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) with leading this effort. Taking place each third Monday in January, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, along with 9/11, are the only two federal holidays observed as a national day of service — a "day on, not a day off."

Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968) was a leader of the Civil Rights movement from 1955 until his death. Alabama played a big role in his work. He first became the pastor of Dexter Avenue Baptist Church. He wrote his famous “Letters from a Birmingham Jail” from Alabama, and he led a successful boycott of Jim Crow era law with the Montgomery Bus Boycott, made famous by Rosa Parks.

Here are five ways to celebrate his legacy with your family and friends this month.

1. Watch Selma the movie, filmed here in Alabama, that tells the tale of the March from Selma to Montgomery to raise aware-

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ness for a national Voting Rights Act. You can find it on most streaming services or check out a copy at the Alabaster Library.

2. Plan a trip to The Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church and Parsonage Museum in Montgomery www.dexterkingmemorial.org. The home has been restored to the time frame when the King family lived there. Much of the original furnishings are also original to King’s day.

3. Serve! Help a neighbor, mobilize your small group or your Bunko Ladies to make a difference in the community. It does not have to be big or even hard, but it should come from the heart and flow into others. For service ideas, visit MLKDay.gov.

4. Read King’s “Letters from a Birmingham Jail”. It was written to motivate those who were sympathetic to the Civil Rights cause, but thought King’s methods where not right. It is a passionate plea to stand up for something even if it is hard.

You can find a copy online with an internet search.

5. Watch King’s speeches on YouTube. The original footage is mesmerizing. When you get to hear his cadence and see the crowd react and how he reacts to them, you will understand that his gift of speech must have been divinely given. AC

SCALE BACK

ALABAMA

‘T

was recently the season for holidays (and fantastic food), time with family and friends watching football (and eating!), and (because of all those second and third helpings) elastic waistbands.

If you’re one of the millions of Americans each year who make New Years’ resolutions to lose those extra holiday pounds, the Scale Back Alabama committee wants to remind you that you can get healthy and it can be fun!

Each year, a free statewide competition is held to encourage individuals to pair up into teams of two and find fun and effective ways to lose weight and get healthy together. The Kick-Off Event takes place on January 15, 2019, with an initial weighin during the week of January 21.

The public awareness campaign for

Jon Kelton

IRT-4395D-A

Financial Advisor

the health and wellness of Alabamians is sponsored by the Alabama Hospital Association, the Alabama Department of Public Health, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama.

A free app (available in the Apple Store and Google Play) supports participants’ efforts during the competition by providing continuous weight tracking, activity and goals. The Weigh-Out occurs during the week of April 1, and the Final Event and cash prize drawings are held on April 16.

The cash prizes are awarded via random drawings from all eligible teams.

To become eligible, both members of the team must each lose 10 pounds during the 9-week challenge. The weight lost must be recorded by a coordinator at an

official Scale Back Alabama weigh-in site.

Prizes range from $500-$2,000 per team.

Individual prizes will also be awarded.

Since the first Scale Back Alabama challenge in 2007, Alabamians have collectively lost more than one million pounds. To encourage an ongoing lifestyle of healthy choices, the Scale Back Alabama app is available throughout the year, even after the competition ends.

For more information about the 2019 Scale Back Alabama challenge, visit www.scalebackalabama.com. To learn more about healthy eating, exercise, and general health tips, visit www.scalebackalabama.com/resources. AC

www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

6919 Hwy 119 Suite 300 Alabaster, AL 35007 205-621-0888

cityofalabaster.com

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THS FOOTBALL: A SEASON TO REMEMBER

F

or THS junior, Noah Tanner, offensive lineman #79, this past Warrior football season has been surreal.

“It is amazing to see what God did with this team this season,” he shared. For those who are unaware, the Thompson Football team made it all the way to the state championship for class 7A. And while the final score was not their ideal outcome, the results still stand as one of the best season of Alabaster football ever!

Some of the highlights from this past season have already been given epic

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titles, such as “The Comeback” and “The Drive”. But those highlights would not have happened without the unseen work and dedication put in by the players, coaches and staff. “We had practice four days a week at 6am, we would also do something in the afternoon, position specific. We had our workouts set and it all tied in really well, the coaches knew what they were doing, there was a method to the madness,” recalled Tanner fondly. The goal was to end up in the state championship game.

For Tanner, “The Drive” is the one play that stands out. With a ticket to the state championship on the line, Alabaster needed to score a touchdown to beat Hoover, which they did with just over 2 minutes left to play. “The most memorable moment will definitely be that last drive of the Hoover game before the state championship game. I was watching, and knew that we were going to go down and score.

When we scored it was kind of a relief.

When you are on that drive, it is hope, worry, anticipation, and you think back

to everything you went through in the season and preseason. It all came together and it worked,” exclaimed Tanner.

Not resting on past accomplishment, the whole team is focused on what is next.

“This next season,” he shared, “the goal is to finish what we started. To be the first team to go to the state in 32 years is a big deal, hopefully we can finish what we started. Just getting back out there. It will be a long season, but it will fly by.”

Tanner believes that the support of the community made a big impact on how the students played. “You know the city’s support is one thing that makes Alabaster special. You would see thousands of people come out every single night. We had a bigger crowd then Foley did and it was an away game for us. Having the fan base support and the student and the administration - everything was great from the community. I can say that football has brought our community together,” he proudly proclaimed, adding, “Thanks to all of the fans, supporters, and sponsors - without them none of this would have been possible.” AC

FEATURE

ALABAMA’S INFRASTRUCTURE:

A MUNICIPAL PERSPECTIVE By: Mayor Marty Handlon, Alabaster Marty Handlon is a Certified Public Accountant with a Master’s in Business Administration and more than 20 years of experience in accounting and financial management. She was elected Mayor of Alabaster in October 2012.

in the posture of revitalization and, therefore attracting additional growth in the surrounding suburb communities. Like many suburbs, Alabaster is appealing to families for the quality of life provided through excellent public safety, great schools, plenty of parks with children’s programs, and safe roads to travel.

A

MOTOR FUEL TAX INCREASE – WHY THIS IS IMPERATIVE! The Legislature is considering adopting an additional motor fuel tax to address the rapidly escalating statewide demands of infrastructure maintenance and enhancement. Therefore, it is important for the citizens of Alabaster and our surrounding communities to be knowledgeable about road funding and how it is distributed, so they can boldly and confidently express to legislators the need for adequate and equitable funding for all local governments.

Alabama’s demographics have shifted significantly in the last 50 years. Across the state, greater than 64 percent now live in cities or towns. In Shelby County, 148,641 of the total 213,605

labamians use municipal infrastructure throughout the state to access jobs, schools, grocery stores, hospitals, parks, entertainment venues and church services – making infrastructure a significant and urgent quality of life issue. The state’s infrastructure needs are at a critical point, especially relative to their impact on our cities.

Alabaster, a medium sized municipality, is struggling to provide the road infrastructure to adequately move a population of approximately 34,000 (and growing) in and around our city, as well as accommodate the traffic associated with our economic footprint of over 100,000. Alabaster is not alone in this struggle.

Infrastructure challenges will continue to escalate through the trickle-down effect as metro/urban areas understandably remain

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FEATURE population – almost 70 percent of citizens – live in cities and towns, according to the statistical data for 2017. As the largest city in Shelby County, Alabaster encompasses 25.46 square miles, almost 10 percent of the County’s incorporated land area, which includes a combination of state, county and city roadways.

The city currently faces more need in minimum maintenance projects on city streets than the current gas tax allocation supports. For educational purposes, the current annual gasoline tax allocation of approximately $260,000 provides for the resurfacing of three to five residential neighborhood streets each year, depending on distance and the degree of repair necessary.

However, when the base of the roadway is severely impaired due to earth movement or sink-hole conditions, repairs must be completed in phases pending availability of funds.

Our city has experienced this multi-phase type project with Alabaster Blvd – approximately one mile of city street repairs (not resurface) with a low bid of more than $600,000 in 2014 to complete all at one time. The total cost of the project increases dramatically when done in phases, due to mobilization and other economic factors. This multi-year project, in progress for the last four years, is still not complete. We are consistently addressing roads in priority order as it relates to safety, and we’re more often reactive instead of preventative.

The major arteries for traffic to move through and around our city belong to either the state or county. In order to address a major congestion issue, the city has to become a willing partner contributing funds in a collaborative effort towards improvements. One example is the widening of State Highway 119, which moves traffic from one end of our city to into the city of Montevallo. In 2013, Alabaster was awarded a Federal grant of up to $10 million for approximately two miles of roadway widening, with the city participating in a 20 percent match to the 80 percent of federal dollars. Currently, no state funds are allocated to this project. The project was put on hold earlier this year because the estimated cost of $20+ million exceeded the grant funding, and ALDOT had no available resources to assist in the completion of the project. After two months of conversations with representatives of the Federal Highway Administration, we were granted permission to break the project into two phases and move forward utilizing our existing grant funds.

Many times, collaboration between government agencies allows for projects a local government cannot afford to do on its own. However, as it relates to roads, excessive time and additional requirements, as well as other inefficiencies, are the downsides when collaborating with the Federal Highway Administration and the State, due to so many other ongoing projects. It is not quite as bad when a municipality partners with a local county government, but the efficiency inhibitors are still present.

Alabama counties and municipalities, as well as the taxpayers

statewide, benefit from savings in eliminating red tape and inefficiencies. Future economic and community development projects in the Shelby/Jefferson County areas will be defined by the infrastructure it can offer. The same is true with every region of the state.

CURRENT MOTOR FUEL TAX DISTRIBUTION IS INADEQUATE The current motor fuel tax distribution formula, which provides 50 percent to the state and 50 percent to local governments--with 80 percent of local government funds going to counties & 20 percent to muncipalities, was developed in the 1960s, and is no longer equitable to address the growing demands on our municipal infrastructure. Therefore, municipal officials are advocating the Legislature adopt a distribution formula providing 50 percent of the funds to the state, 25 percent to counties and 25 percent to municipalities.

Alabaster’s community actively engaged with its legislative delegation on this critical issue as they experienced the dangerous bottle neck contributing to more accidents and lengthy delays on the Shelby County portion of Interstate 65, and even more so after the delay in widening Highway 119 where emergency vehicles can’t get to the scene of an accident due to the congestion. Our delegation listened.

THE VOICES OF VOTERS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE! We are proud of the State’s history of fiscally conscientious leaders making Alabama a great and affordable place to live. No one is to blame for the rising cost of goods and services over periods of time; it costs more to maintain the same in every industry, including government. That being said, Alabama is not the same as it was - we have grown and developed, shifting from rural areas to bustling suburbs.

I can’t stress enough how important it is for our legislators to hear from their constituents about the public safety issues and escalating need in their communities. It would be wonderful if the voice of local government and public safety professionals were enough; however, it is always going to take the voices of the voters to make the difference between crumbling congested roads and safe highways.

State and local leaders cannot afford to sacrifice the public’s safety and quality of life by adhering to inadequate funding formulas of the past. As we have implored people and businesses to invest in our communities and our state for the benefit of our citizens, we owe them the return on their investment of providing the infrastructure needed for safe success in their mobility.

Please contact your legislators and let them know that infrastructure is a priority issue for you as a citizen and for us as a state! AC cityofalabaster.com

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FEATURE

SILURIA BREWING CO:

AN ALABASTER DESTINATION A

labaster is heading into a new phase.

It started with the housing boom of the early 2000s. It continued with the expansion of shopping, first with the Promenade, and now with the newly announced District 31 shopping plaza.

The next phase is all about becoming a destination, not just for shoppers, but also for experiences.

Siluria Brewing Company is the perfect example of this transition. What was once an abandoned government building has been transformed into a brewery that is gaining traction with Alabaster residents and beyond. “We wanted to be a destination for Alabaster,” declared founder Danny Sample, along with his wife, Tammy.

“We aren’t a big brewery, where people come in and are not seen. It is the warmth of a destination.

People now have a place when they come home, and they have a place they can go that is for local Alabaster folks. We are a place to relax and unwind.”

-Tammy Sample

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The Samples spent over a year refurbishing, doing most of the work themselves, to transform the old Alabaster Post Office from an uninspiring, pedestrian building into a rustic, hand-crafted “common house.” The transformation of the building is also reflective of the

FEATURE drinks they craft. They are handmade in small batches, with a focus on quality and taste. They currently have six drinks on tap, including the home-brewed Side Kick Root Beer.

“We wanted to be a local part of the community,” shared Danny. The Samples have been in Alabaster since 1999. “We are rooted in Alabaster, it will be 20 years next year. Our close friends are here, and when we did our market study, there wasn’t an all-grain brewery on 65 between Birmingham and Montgomery.”

Their story started with a hobby. “As I traveled for work, I would take Tammy with me when she could come. We would make it a habit to find the local breweries. As I got closer to retirement, I thought ‘why not craft beer in Alabaster?’” Danny said. From here Danny got a home brew kit and just started playing around with different brews.

These two events collided with the desire to do something together in the community. “So, we wanted to do something, our youngest son is a junior at THS. We wanted to have something and have a community something we really enjoyed doing together. It wasn’t just me or her - we were going to do this together,” explained Danny.

As they started to dream about what could be, they started to look for a location. “We first thought it would be on Main Street, but with the weight of the equipment, we knew we needed to find another location. We saw the old Alabaster Post Office and it was perfect,” he said.

“We aren’t a big brewery, where people come in and are not seen. It is the warmth of a destination. People now have a place when they come home, and they have a place they can go that is for local Alabaster folks. We are a place to relax and unwind,” share Tammy.

Currently they have six drinks on tap with plans to add up to 12. And while they do not serve food, they do have

food trucks each night they are open, and they allow you to bring in food.

FAMILY One of the goals they had was to create a space for families. “We aren’t a bar, we are a place for that family time! We are a family-oriented place, and we wanted to create an atmosphere where you can go, feel relaxed and where your kids are welcome. That is one reason we created the event room - somewhere you feel

"The old of Siluria with the new of Alabaster - we feel like we have drawn two communities back together.

We have people coming in and sharing how they had families working at the mill or lived here. We wanted the name to help keep history alive." -Danny Sample comfortable to bring your family. Same thing with our beer garden - they bring their pets, they sit out back. This way everyone is welcome, bring your pets, bring your children,” shared Tammy.

Recently Tammy saw an example of this family time. “I saw a dad playing Battleship with his young daughter, it was a special moment,” she recalled.

Even the name is about family. “Why Silirua Brewing?” Danny asks rhetorically.

“We were thinking, ‘what are we going to name it?’ Tammy just looked at me and said, ‘Silirua.’ The old of Siluria with the new of Alabaster - we feel like we have drawn two communities back together.

We have people coming in and sharing how they had families working at the mill or lived here. We wanted the name to help keep history alive. We even had someone come in and buy everything they could with Silirua on it as gifts for family members,” Danny shared with a big smile.

SIGNATURE BREWS “Our signature brew is our pomegranate wheat. It is called Lady Grace. When we brew this at home, we originally used local honey, but with such large batches, we have to find a larger vendor for the honey,” Danny said.

They also have another very limited and very special beer. “The Colonel Kirk, it is a limited release we made it in honor of a friend of mine. He lived in Pelham and worked with me in the Army Reserves. We would also tailgate with him at UAB, his son and mine son played football. He got transferred out to Hawaii and had a boating accident last summer, and I wanted to do something to honor him. When that happened, we knew we were going to make a German beer to honor him! We won’t brew this again until next October - we release this for his birthday and Veteran’s Day,” he said.

They also have an IPA, a Stout and another wheat beer, along with their root beer. They brew in a 5-barrel system, which is 31 gallons per barrel. This means that each batch is only 155 gallons, which makes each batch a unique product - something you will not find at the local grocery store.

“Our goal is to make great tasting beer.

Tammy said it, and it has become our tag line - Love what you Brew - that is what we are all about,” Danny said with a satisfied smile. AC HOURS Thursday 4 – 10 pm Friday 4 - 11 pm Saturday 1 – 11 pm LOCATION 145 1st Ave W. Alabaster AL 35007 www.siluriabrewing.com Facebook.com/siluriabrewing

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s n g i S e h t w Kno Most suicidal people show signs that they are thinking about suicide. Know the signs, start the conversation, and get help. One small act can make a difference.

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Call 1-800-2 73-8255 Available 24 hours every day alabamapublichealth.gov/suicide

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

ESTABLISHING DEEPER COMMUNITY ROOTS Vinehouse Nursery is Blossoming in Alabaster

V

inehouse Nursery was a brand-new business to the Alabaster community just over one year ago. Serving as a quality care center for children, ages birth to 48 months, the programs that Vinehouse Nursery offers are built around the concept that children are born ready to learn.

“As caregivers, we strive to create a learning environment that is safe, stimulating and encouraging,” explained Khiari McAlpin, Director. “When a parent and a caregiver can educate a child together, that child’s future will start off as a tiny seed and blossom into a beautiful flower.”

Vinehouse Nursery proudly provides developmentally-appropriate educational programs within a warm and nurturing environment that fosters positive self-esteem and promotes creativity and individuality.

“We believe in a multi-sensory approach, where children are immersed in the learning process. They are actively and purposefully engaged throughout each day.

Every moment is a teachable moment, and our curriculum is designed to encompass all areas of early childhood development, while making certain to meet the needs of the individual child and capitalize on their personal interests and motivations.”

BEAUTY ATTRACTS ATTENTION Their unique approach to providing a purposefully designed education for these infants has caught the attention of not only the enrolled infants’ families, but also that of the business community.

In just the past year, the business has already garnered a number of nominations, recognitions and awards for their outstanding work: May 2018​​– Nominated, named and presented the 2​018 Small Business of the Year Award​​by the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce.

September 2018​– Nominated for the ​ Best of the Best Childcare recognition in Shelby Living Magazine. ​October 2018 – The Greater Shelby County Chamber nominated Vinehouse Nursery for the ​2018 Alabama Small Business of the Year Awards ​​hosted by the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama and the Business Council of Alabama. Vinehouse Nursery was named as one of the finalists for the “Emerging Small Business of the Year” category, as they have been operating for less than five years. ​December 2018​​ – ​Vinehouse Nursery was chosen for the 2​ 018 Best of Alabaster Awards​​ in the​Day Care Center​​ category.

TANGIBLE & INTANGIBLE REWARDS While Khiari is humbled and grateful for the awards and kudos her business has received, she finds fulfillment in recognizing the growth and difference her local business is making.

The Nursery recently expanded and is now offering childcare for children ages 6 weeks to 48 months. In addition, two new activities have been incorporated: • Soccer Shots- ​ https://www.soccershots.org • Zumbini (Baby Zumba)​https://www.zumbini.com In addition, the staff is partnering with UAB to add interns whose focus will be on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) Based Learning.

“This will be an addition to the Mother Goose Time Curriculum we use. We also teach American Sign Language in both English and Spanish,” she explained.

“Our goal is to foster a strong sense of self-worth in the children that will provide a strong framework of success for overcoming all later life experiences and challenges.”

For more information, visit: www.vinehousenursery.com AC cityofalabaster.com

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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

PROTECTING LIVES ONE INSPECTION AT A TIME

M

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ike Waits has been a faithful member of the Alabaster Fire Department since February of 2007. “I actually started at Birmingham in March of 2001, but transferred over here as a firefighter,” he shared. He held that job until becoming one of the two Fire Inspectors for the city in 2016.

A Fire Inspector’s role is to make sure that public buildings are following current fire safety code. “Basically, we inspect the local businesses for proper fire extinguishers, exit lights installed and in good working order, hood systems in restaurants are in working order, just over all making sure it is safe for the employees and all the customers to enter the businesses. We do this for all existing business,” Waits said.

With so many businesses in Alabaster, they emphasize locations that could have the biggest harm if a tragedy were to happen. “We try to take all of our highest occupant facilities buildings first and work down from that list. Like hotels, that is a very high hazard occupancy because there are hundreds of people, and most of the time, they are asleep. We work from that mentality, trying to hit all your highest risk locations first,” he remarked. This would include hotels, retail locations, restaurants and public buildings.

In Alabaster, the Fire Inspectors are APOST certified (Alabama Peace Officer Standards and Training) commonly understood as part of the police academy. This allows our inspectors to investigate fires and make arrests, while also enforcing code violations by writing tickets and presenting them to a city prosecutor for litigation if warranted. “We work hand in hand with our police department in investigations and enforcement,” shared Waits. cityofalabaster.com

For Waits to become eligible for the Fire Inspector position in Alabaster, he had to first become APOST certified. “As I was praying, I was thinking about my career and I thought there might be an open door to become an inspector. I was told I had to get APOST, so I applied for the program and was accepted,” he said. Waits paid his own way and took time off to attend the weekend classes. “It was a year and a half every other weekend. It is what they call the Reserve Academy in Jefferson County, it was on Saturdays and Sundays from morning until late afternoons.”

In spite of the excitement a APOST certified Fire Inspector might elicit from the public, Waits admits the role is not something you write home about, yet it still has a deep impact.

“It is kinda hard to share with people what we do, it isn’t very exciting. At the end of the day, by doing our fire inspection, by ensuring that the fire code is being followed, knowing that we may be saving lives, that makes you feel good,” Waits shared.

As part of the job, they also do public education for schools and children. “We spend October teaching the kids about fire safety.

We have a smokehouse trailer with simulated smoke, which is really a fog machine, that the kids get to crawl through, which they love. We talk to them about smoke alarms and changing the batteries, having a meet up place if they were to have a fire. Lots of other things, but mostly typical household safety stuff,” he shared.

Fire Inspectors are also the Code Enforcement officers in Alabaster. “When a residential home or business is in violation of an ordinance of the city, it is our job to enforce that code. If there is a violation, we leave notice with a time frame for them to get it corrected. If it isn’t corrected, we issue a citation,” Waits said. The typical codes that they work with are un-mowed grass, junk in the yard or driveway, illegal dumping, and illegally operating businesses.

“If the grass is unkept, it can be a breeding ground for snakes, rodents and mosquitoes. Junk and debris can have the same effect, plus it can reduce property value,” he shared. “When it comes to illegal businesses, it is a safety issue. If a contractor is working without a license, it means they did not pull the proper permits, which could mean they aren’t trained for the work they are doing, such as electrical. Which could turn into a fire,” exclaimed Waits.

When Waits is not working, he enjoys spending time with his family. “My wife and I bought 10.5 acres and are building a house. My two boys, ages 9 and 11, are a big help in the process. They are good, real good. They don’t have phones or tablets or any of that stuff, they are outdoor kids for sure,” Waits shared with a smile. He has also coached their football teams the past few years.

“Overall it is a very, very rewarding career. It is just an entire career of helping,” Waits said with reflection. AC

Anglican Church of the Holy Comforter A traditional Episcopal church using the 1928 Book of Common Prayer

You are welcome to join us for the celebration of Holy Communion each Sunday at 10 am Rev. Mr. Shannon L. Clark, Deacon-in-charge Stathanasius1978@gmail.com 135 Ashville Circle Montevallo, AL 35115 (205) 665-2769 holy-comforter.com

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19

CITIZEN SPOTLIGHT

A HERO FOR THE HURTING S

ara Peete, a THS senior, is a hero. She won’t claim the title herself, but with all the lives that her warm heart for serving others has touched, the moniker fits.

But, like every hero, she faces challenges that she has chosen to allow to strengthen her resolve. In the last two years, Sara has been diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder; Postural Orthostatic tachycardia, a heart disorder; and Crohns disease. But even with all of the health difficulties that affect how she approaches daily life, she humbly says, “Having illnesses fuels me to do better and to be a better person.”

POWERED FROM THE INSIDE Sara says these ‘invisible illnesses’ have made her more aware of the unseen struggles of others. She also credits her involvement in the THS theatre department for helping her to connect with people from all walks of life. “[Theater is] exposing me to different cultures and has broadened my eyes to fighting for everyone I can. Fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves is something I have always tried to do.”

One way that she actively fights for those around her here in Alabaster is through a nonprofit organization called GirlUp. GirlUp enables girls to empower themselves and others around them. It was founded

by United Nations in 2010. “Each year they hold a leadership conference in Washington DC, giving girls resources and platforms to start a social change locally and globally. I was elected president this year, so I organize meetings and projects,” she explained.

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TAKING A STAND Sara shared that, on a national level, an average of nearly 20 people are abused every minute – more than 10 million people per year! Domestic abuse does not discriminate, it does not matter what age, gender, religion or social class; abuse happens everywhere. To Sara, these statistics are too high.

“What GirlUp is doing is so important – even if we can help just one girl know that her self-worth cityofalabaster.com

isn’t based on how someone else sees her, and having her know that mental and physical abuse is not acceptable.”

EMPOWERING OTHERS The ultimate goal in GirlUp is to impact lives, along with bettering the community with love, acceptance, tolerance and support.

“In GirlUp meetings, we have conversations about sexual harassment and how it affects our own high school daily. We’ve shared stories of us coming forward about other students and even [substitute teachers] touching us or making inappropriate comments to us,” which is a situation Sara dealt with in 2016.

“Our society has become desensitized to domestic abuse and sexual harassment, which is why GirlUp is so important. We will be the ones that will continue to support victims and will seek help when needed, because if we don’t, who else will?”

THE STRENGTH OF A FIGHTER This season of life has not been an easy one for Sara mentally or physically, but she says that with each day, God has continued to show her small victories for herself and the people she cares about most.

“I am constantly thankful for every opportunity I’ve been given and what all I’ve been able to accomplish. God called me to lead my heart into projects that mattered. This project matters.” AC

ALABASTER HELPS

ANSWERING THE CALL TO HELP THOSE IN NEED Responsein Times of Crisis The2018 RedDisaster Cross Responds

D

uring end-of-year giving or during in our nation. Millions of people from people’s urgent needs.” times of crisis, you may suddenly coast to coast turned to the American One specific way that Alabaster citizens remember the value In of athe American Red Cross forrecord shelter, wildfires, food and comfort. help support the efforts of this organisecond consecutive year of hurricanes,can tragic shootings Red Cross and the services that it pro“This year, wildfires scorched more zation in a tangible and other large crises, generous support enabled our disaster workforce—and literally life-saving vides to our community and beyond. than 8.5 million acres…plus, sixpeople major in the way,U.S. is through donating blood.

90% volunteers—to help millions of However, as we enter into a new year, hurricanes impacted the United States in “All eligible individuals – especially it’s important to continue to realize the just three months,” she pointed out. “For type O blood donors – are urged to Over 8.2 million meals and Over 2.2 million relief Jefferson-Shelby Chapter of the Red these and other crises – including home items schedule a blood or platelet donation snacks served with partners distributed Cross provides year-round programs fires, the nation’s most frequent disaster today,” Roland pleaded. “Donors can and services to the citizens of Blount, – Red Cross volunteers responded to help even more people by inviting a Over 290,000 overnight shelter Over 188,000 healthfriend and or co-worker to Calhoun, Cleburne, Cullman, Jefferson, provide relief and care.” family member, stays provided with partners mental health contacts made Randolph, Shelby, St. Clair, Talladega, Impressively, every eight minutes, donate, too.”

Walker and Winston counties. someone affected by disaster is helped by Blood or platelet donation appointThe Communications Director for the donations to the Red Cross. ments can be made using the free Red Alabama Region, Annette Roland, shared “In 2018, this generous support was Cross Blood Donor App, visiting Redthat 2018 proved to be the secondInconcritical for providing food, shelter, relief CrossBlood.org, or calling 1-800-RED2018, we also helped people recover and stay safe secutive year of record-breaking disasters items and the othernation’s assistance to address CROSS (1-800-733-2767). AC from home fires, most frequent disaster.

73,000 Nearly 400,000 smoke 2018Over Disaster Response households provided alarms installed

Over 165,000 households made safer through home safety visits

with recovery support

In a second consecutive year of record wildfires, hurricanes, tragic shootings Every 8 minutes, someone by disaster helped by the Red Cross. and other large crises,affected generous supportisenabled ourdonations disaster to workforce—

90% volunteers—to help millions of people Visit redcross.org to learn more. in the U.S. Figures reflect $10,000 and above Red Cross disaster response operations from January 1, 2018 to November 30, 2018.

Over 8.2 million Over31,2.2 million relief Home Firemeals Campaignand statistics are current from January 1, 2018 to October 2018.

snacks served with partners

items distributed

Over 290,000 overnight shelter stays provided with partners

Over 188,000 health and mental health contacts made

209401-02 12/18

cityofalabaster.com

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BEAUTIFICATION BOARD

Board's n o ti ca fi ti u a e B r e st a b la A

h t n o m e h t f o s garden tip •

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ecent nighttime temperatures have been cold, many nights into freezing temperatures. Be sure to monitor weather forecasts for nighttime lows and protect frost-tender plants, such as Bougainvillea, Hibiscus, Citrus, Tibuchina, etc. You can use an anti-desiccant, such as Cloudcover, and when frost is actually predicted, cover the plants with sheets or lightweight blankets or burlap. A strand of Christmas lights in a tree is often enough to protect the plant from frost as well (and you get decoration!) This also might be a good time to yank the plant that can’t stand the cold and replace it with something more appropriate to your climate zone.

• Bare-root shrubs and trees will begin appearing in nurseries – this is a good way to plant many fruit trees and shrubs and roses. If you can’t plant your bare-root plant the day that you buy it, submerge the roots in a bucket of water for 24 hours and plant as

•

•

•

•

soon as you can.

Roses should be pruned any time between New Year’s and Valentine’s Day. Be careful not to compact the soil around the plants with your feet when you prune. Prune hard, down to 3-4 young, vigorous canes per plant.

Feed your lawn with organic fertilizer every six weeks throughout the winter, which will keep it healthy but not produce tremendous bursts of growth which would require frequent mowing.

Clean, oil and store tools, such as shovels, hoes, pruners, etc. Use light machine oil on metal parts to prevent rust.

While you are cleaning, consider spray painting the handles of the tools a fun color. It’s a great way to keep your tools separate from any that you happen to borrow or lend out, and it makes them easier to find in the yard.

Don’t forget to take care of your mower blades. Your winter gardening break is the perfect opportunity to

•

•

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have your blades sharpened to give your grass that clean cut it deserves come spring. Sharp blades mean a cleaner cut and a better-looking lawn.

Prune pines and other dormant conifers. Don’t trim back individual branches (and whatever you do, don’t top them!) Thin trees where necessary by pruning out entire branches.

If you have ivy, the best time to prune is winter, because the growth has slowed and the roots are still somewhat soft. If you wait until spring, the ivy will be in full growth season and will quickly grow back, and the roots will have the opportunity to grab hold, which will make it harder to remove.

January is a great month to think about garden design and plan for spring plantings. The solstice is behind us and the days have started to lengthen – use this remaining ‘indoor time’ to review favorite garden books, make notes and designs and compose plant lists. AC

BEAUTIFICATION AWARD WINNER Sara Thackerson and her sister Bobbi Stewart 157 Park Place Lane This property is very well maintained with concrete edging around the flowerbeds. The lawn is Bermuda grass, which is treated with fertilizer and weed killer, giving it a healthy appearance. The outdoor lighting around the tree in the front yard gives an added focal point.

The Beautification winner for January is in Ward 5.

Next month the winner will be from Ward 6. To nominate a property for the Beautification Award, email the Beautification Board.

CONTACT THE BEAUTIFICATION BOARD: beauty@cityofalabaster.com

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cityofalabaster.com

AROUND TOWN

ALABASTER TEEN COUNCIL DONATIONS The Alabaster Teen Council made four donations to the following organizations, the Alabaster Parks and Recreation, Warrior Center, Mitchell’s Place and Alabaster YMCA Aquatics Program with funds they raised from year long events such as the concession stand at the Movies in the Stadium event.

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23

AROUND TOWN

NEW YEAR, NEW FRIENDS. JOIN US!

T

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he Friends of the Albert L. Scott Library, Inc. is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation dedicated to support the programming and effectiveness of the Alabaster public library.

Donations to the Friends are tax-deductible, and end-of-year is a most opportune time for monetary gifts of support. Please consider a gift to the Friends organization at this time. Our address is the same as that of the library: 100 9th St NW, Alabaster, AL 35007.

Currently, the Friends Book Nook, located at the front of the library’s Fiction Room, has a good assortment of children’s books and DVDs, many ideal for children, tweens and teens.

As always, our pricing is extremely affordable. Hardbacks are $1 while paperbacks and all children’s books are just 50 cents.

Books on CD and DVDs are priced at only $2 each!

In the Friends Store at the back of the Fiction Room, there are more books and quite a good assortment of DVDs. Our semi-annual sales feature books of all sorts, and sometimes the DVDs get overlooked in the excitement. Now is a great time to spend an hour looking more closely at the DVDs to find just the ones you will want to watch. There are also some DVD “sets” priced somewhat higher than our standard $2, but always less than $2 per disc. For the fan, these sets are a true bargain and will provide hours of entertainment. cityofalabaster.com

There are some very recent books – published this year.

These are specially priced (and marked). Again, the price is lower than you will find elsewhere. Come see for yourself.

Finally, here is a suggestion for one New Year’s Resolution: Join the Friends group and pitch in with your neighbors to make our community better through enhanced library services.

Regular member dues are ten dollars a year, while supporting members contribute twenty-five dollars a year. Information and membership forms are available at the library circulation desk.

AC

Show your hair some love!

Joy Cearley, Hairstylist Phone: 334-590-2282

Sassy’s Hair Salon

412 6th Ave SW Alabaster AL 35007

Hours:

Wednesday - Saturday 11:00am to 7:00pm

Haircuts for Women, Men and Kids!

Please call for a complete list of services and pricing Walk-ins welcome!

AROUND TOWN

BYARS WRIGHT INSURANCE RIBBON CUTTING Alabaster recently held a ribbon cutting for Byars Wright Insurance located on Highway 31. The Bryars Wright company works with commercial and personal polices. They provide all options and a

large selection of products to protect personal and corporate property.

Find out more at: www.ByarsWright.com

cityofalabaster.com

25

COMMUNITY

please call the library at 664-6822 or email Carol Smith at csmith@shelbycounty-al.org. Program takes place in the meeting room.

questions you might have. Program takes place in the meeting room.

January 7 Council 7 p.m.

ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES

January 14 at 6 pm

January 8 Veterans’ Legal Clinic 6:30-8 p.m.

Call or come by to sign up. 664-6822

January 9 Court Plea Dockets 9 a.m. & 2 p.m.

January 8 at 10 am

LIBRARY BOOK GROUP

January 15 Board of Zoning Adjust. 6:30 p.m.

Microsoft Word 2013 part 1 - This class introduces the basics of Microsoft word.

Participants need to have basic PC and keyboarding skills.

January 17 at 7 pm

JANUARY January 2 Court Plea Dockets 9 a.m. & 2 p.m.

January 7 School Board 5:30 p.m.

January 21 Council 7 p.m.

January 22 Planning Commission 7 p.m.

All meetings are held at 1953 Municipal Way in the Council Chamber. View full calendar, agendas and resolutions at www.cityofalabaster.com.

LIBRARY The Albert L. Scott Library is located at 100 9th Street N.W., Alabaster.

Hours of operation are: Mon., Tue. and Thu.: 9 am - 7:50 pm Wednesday: 10 am - 5:50 pm Friday: 9 am - 5:50 pm Saturday: 10 am - 4:50 pm Sunday: 1 pm - 4:50 pm

If you would like more information concerning programs, please contact the Library at 664-6822.

CLOSED DATES January 1 – New Year’s Day January 21 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

YA YA YARNERS January 7 and 28 at 5:30 pm

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The Ya Ya Yarners are meeting at the Albert L. Scott Library now! Do you knit or crochet? Would you like to learn how?

If so, we have a group for you…the Ya Ya Yarners! We will teach you if you don’t know how. We will start you with one of two simple projects. We will supply the needles or hooks and yarn and a pattern.

We also do community projects such as hats for service members, lap blankets, prayer shawls and many other things, plus we have a really good time. We hope you will join us! For more information, cityofalabaster.com

January 15 at 10 am

Microsoft Word 2013 part 2 - This class introduces the basics of Microsoft word.

Participants need to have basic PC and keyboarding skills.

January 22 at 10 am

Computer Basics - This beginner class introduces people to basic computer terms, hardware, software, components, and the desktop.

TAI CHI FOR HEALTH Wednesday mornings at 10:30 am Starting January 9

Join us as local instructor Rachel Hickman teaches an 8-week course in Tai Chi. Tai Chi is an exercise that improves balance, sharpens the mind and circulates oxygen throughout the body while gently massaging all the joints, ligaments and muscles of the entire body. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and shoes that will not slip during movement. Try not to miss any classes because each class builds upon the previous ones. Newcomers will not be allowed after the second class takes place. Program takes place in the meeting room. Participants must complete the Enrollment Form at the front desk before the first class.

ABC & DS OF MEDICARE January 14 at 1 pm

Karen Haiflich of the Medicare Information Source will help you navigate through the process of Medicare. Learn about filing, benefits, and any other

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY MEETING

Join us to discuss "What Lies Under the Fallen Sky" by Erica Ryan. Soon after Dodge Montgomery learns of the death of the paternal grandfather he was named for but has never met, he travels from New York City to a small, idyllic town in Alabama, where he finds everyone already knows his name. Having never met his father, the man who abandoned his mother before Dodge was born, he must face his family’s heartbreaking past, while unraveling the familial ties that bind him to a place he didn’t know existed. Program takes place in the meeting room.

BOOK SIGNING January 19 at 1 pm

Sanchez Tanniehill will be promoting and signing his book "God Did It". Sanchez is a gospel recording artist with an incredible story of God’s faithfulness. At six weeks old he suffered a stroke. Doctors said he would never walk or talk, but by the grace of God, Sanchez sings and shares his story with people everywhere.

LIBRARY BOARD MEETING January 22 at 6 pm

MEDICARE 101 January 24 at 6 pm

A fun and informative class to learn what to expect with Medicare and how to ask the right questions. Perfect for anyone wanting to learn about their Medicare options. Presented by Eric Smith, the founder of Medicare Advisors of Alabama. Program takes place in the meeting room.

CALENDAR SAVE YOUR STORIES!: PRESERVING ORAL HISTORY January 31 at 6 pm

Join us as Mark Sims and Sarah Tackett present a workshop that will help families preserve and write down their family stories. The first class is on January 31st and will continue through May on the second Thursday of each month at 6 pm.

COMING IN FEBRUARY: FREE AARP TAX HELP FOR SENIORS February through early April

Available by appointment on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the meeting room. Sign up begins in January – call or come by the Albert L. Scott Library. 664-6822.

LIBRARY YOUTH EVENTS KIDS CAN RESOLVE TO HAVE FUN AT THE LIBRARY IN THE NEW YEAR STORY TIMES

educational program that all children can enjoy, but is mainly designed for children with sensory integration challenges. It combines books, songs, movement, and more in the meeting room.

HOMESCHOOL HAPPENING

Monday, January 21

ELEPHANT & PIGGIE READ & PLAY TIME Kids in first grade and above can come to this new activity. We’ll read Mo Willems books featuring favorite characters and then play with Legos and more. Sign up.

Six-year-olds must be with an adult. The fun is in the meeting room.

AMERICAN GIRLS CLUB January 25 at 4 pm

Girls age 7 and older can sign up and come with or without a doll to explore Josefina’s world. It’s in the meeting room.

January 29 at 6 pm

Sensory Story Time in the meeting room

What is Pete the Cat doing in the New Year? Boys and girls can find out by joining in the fun of reading and more in the meeting room. Children age 6 and younger must be with an adult.

The theme is Making Memories. We’ll read and discuss In for Winter, Out for Spring plus other companion books and then explore our talents for writing and illustrating a poem about a favorite memory. Kids in first grade and above can sign up. Six year olds must be with an adult.

The program is in the meeting room.

SENSORY STORY TIME January 9 and January 23 at 3:30 pm

Sensory Storytime is an interactive and

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

YOUTH BASKETBALL Youth Basketball games took a break for the holidays; however, they will get back in full swing in January.

January 15 from 6 - 6:45 pm

2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 3:30 pm

January 8 at 6 pm

Tuesday, January 1

Students in grades 1-12 can sign up for Stretch, Strengthen, & Snack with 4-H. Six-year-olds must be with an adult. Fun and learning in the meeting room.

PETE THE CAT BOOK CLUB

WONDER KIDS’ BOOK CLUB

The Parks and Recreation Office, along with Veterans Skate Park, will be closed: New Year’s Day.

Toddler Tales in the meeting room

Outreach Story Time at area day cares.

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

January 14 from 10 – 11 am

Fridays at 10:30 am

Wednesdays at 10:15 am

to pay for any fees with Cash, Debit, Visa, Master Card, or Discover.

PARKS AND REC STAY INFORMED BY EMAIL If you would like to receive emails from Parks and Recreation regarding registrations and events, you can sign up by going to www.alabasterparks.org and scrolling down the page to the SIGN-UP link. The only required information is your name and email address.

NOTE: We cannot accept Checks as a method of payment. Please be prepared

COACHES NEEDED Volunteer coaches are needed for Spring Baseball, Girls Softball, and Soccer. If you are interested in coaching, please contact Morgan or Nik at Alabaster Parks & Recreation ASAP.

SPRING GIRLS’ SOFTBALL REGISTRATION FOR AGES 5-12 Online Registration will be available at www.alabasterparks.org beginning at 8 am on Dec. 31 and ending at 11 pm on Jan. 12. Walk-in Registration will be available Jan. 2 - Jan. 11, weekdays only, from 8 am until 5 pm at the Parks & Recreation Office located at Veterans Park, 7305 Hwy. 119, Alabaster. Girls’ Softball Cost: $165. Non-residents: Additional 10% per child. Multi-child discount: 10% after oldest child pays full price. New participants are required to submit a copy of their birth certificate.

Age Requirement: The player’s age as of Jan. 1, 2019 determines the placement of that player into the correct division.

For more information, please contact Morgan Lawley at 664-6840 or mnlawley@cityofalabaster.com.

SPRING BASEBALL REGISTRATION - AGES 4-14 Online Registration will be available at www.alabasterparks.org beginning at cityofalabaster.com

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CALENDAR 8 am on Dec. 31 and ending at 11 pm on Jan. 12. Walk-in Registration will be available Jan. 2 - Jan. 11, weekdays only, from 8 am until 5 pm at the Parks & Recreation Office located at Veterans Park, 7305 Hwy. 119, Alabaster.

Baseball Cost: $165 for ages 5 thru 14; $90 for age 4. Non-residents: Additional 10% per child. Multi-child discount: 10% after oldest child pays full price.

New participants are required to submit a copy of their birth certificate.

Age Requirement: The player’s age as of April 30, 2019 determines the placement of that player into the correct division. BAT CHANGES: Dizzy Dean Baseball has adopted the new USA Baseball Bat Standard. Please review these changes before purchasing any bats. A link can be found on our Baseball web page at www.alabasterparks.org.

For more information, please contact Morgan Lawley at 664-6840 or mnlawley@cityofalabaster.com.

SPRING SOCCER REGISTRATION - AGES 4-14

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Online Registration will be available at www.alabasterparks.org beginning at 8 am on Dec. 31 and ending at 11 pm on Jan. 12. Walk-in Registration will be available Jan. 2 - Jan. 11, weekdays only, from 8 am until 5 pm at the Parks & Recreation Office located at Veterans Park, 7305 Hwy. 119, Alabaster. Soccer Cost: $110 for U9 and up; $90 for U6/U8. Non-residents: Additional 10% fee per child. Multi-child discount: 10% after oldest child pays full price. New participants are required to submit a copy of their birth certificate.

Age Requirement: All those born in 2005 through 2013 qualify. Those born in 2014 must have been born before July 16. For those born in 2004, please call the office to placed on a waiting list to see if we have enough to make a team. For more information, please contact Nik McCrimon at 664-6840 or nmccrimon@cityofalabaster.com. cityofalabaster.com

PAVILIONS FOR RENT

ONE STROKE PAINTING

Outdoor Rental Facilities: Online Pavilion Rentals – available at www.alabasterparks.org Several of our City Parks offer pavilions for events such as picnics, family reunions and birthday parties. The best way to assure your event happens at the location of your choice is to reserve it early. Please do not send out invitations listing one of our parks as the event location before you have secured a pavilion through Parks and Recreation.

The pavilion you plan on using may not be available. Pavilions are available for use by permit only. There is a $40 rental fee (no checks accepted) which must be paid before your reservation is complete.

Note: Inflatables, charcoal grills, and piñatas are not allowed in any of the City parks. Please see our web site for a complete list of rules. All open picnic tables (those not under a covering) are available free of charge on a first come, first served basis.

January 7 & 14th from 10 - 11 am

SENIOR CENTER ONLY A FEW SPOTS LEFT BEFORE WE CLOSE OUT THIS TRIP! 4 nights/5 Days- Springtime in Little Rock, Roland and Hot Springs, Arkansas 4 nights lodging in Little Rock area 4 hot breakfast buffets, 1 lunch and 3 dinners Tour and dinner at Chris Olsen’s Edgemont Home & Garden P. Allen Smith’s Moss Mountain Farmfarm-to-table lunch and tour Guided tours of downtown Little Rock and downtown Hot Springs Tour the “Old Mill”, Presidential library tour, Heifer Village tour, Gangster Museum tour and more…Cost is $525/ person for double occupancy and $699/ person for single occupancy. Stop by the senior center for more details. We will be traveling on a motor coach bus.

(2 Day Class– need to attend both classes) We will be learning the basic techniques of Donna Dewberry's One Stoke Painting in these two classes. In these classes you will learn how to load your brushes correctly and highlight and shadow at the same time. You must take both classes to take the project classes in February and March, as they will build on each other. $23 to reserve your spot.

No experience necessary—come learn something new. Price includes set of 4 new One Stroke brushes.

BIRDING CLASS Tuesday, January 8 from 10 - 11:30 am

Welcome to the first of several birding classes. This class will be the basics of Back Yard birding through the year.

What birds should you be looking for in the winter, spring, summer and fall?

What should you feed them in what kind of feeders? How can you help them stay healthy? We will be addressing these questions. You will be making your own suet to take home and much more. Space is limited. $10 to reserve your spot.

PAPER CRAFTING CLASS Monday, January 14 from 12:30 - 3 pm

Join us and learn a variety of techniques in card making. Need to bring sharp paper cutting scissors, Scotch double sided tape, colored pencils or water based markers.

Space is limited. $5 to reserve your spot.

MEN’S PAWN SHOP OUTING Thursday, January 17 from 8:45 am - 1:30 pm

CALLING ALL MEN– join us as we stop by various pawn shops. We will eat lunch in the community. Bring $10-12 for lunch.

Space is limited. $1 to reserve your spot.

LIVE LIFE BRACELET JEWELRY Friday, January 18 from 12 - 1:30 pm

Made with Mexican Red Snowflake Jas-

CALENDAR per, Tierra Cast findings and black leather.

This is a beautiful bracelet with a "slip" closure over an antiqued pewter button. Easy to make, easy on the hands with just a few places to use flat nose pliers to squeeze a finding closed, and a few knots to tie! All tools and supplies provided. Please bring glasses and a magnifier if needed. $15 to reserve your spot.

SOUTH CITY THEATER ALMOST MAINE Sunday, February 3 from 1 pm - 4:45 pm

This performance is a series of nice vignettes about love, with a touch of good natured magic, realism, witty romance and surprise endings. Space is limited. $15 to reserve your spot.

GROUP FITNESS CLASSES OFFERED AT THE ALABASTER SENIOR CENTER GENTLE YOGA Tuesdays from 1:15 - 2:30 pm Thursdays from 2:15 - 3:30 pm

Combines traditional/modified yoga postures and breathing techniques.

Come improve your overall health through understanding your body better and leave feeling refreshed and reenergized. Gentle movement is modified to allow the class to be completed by a standing or seated participant; all levels of fitness are welcome. Space is limited. $2/class.

ARTHRITIS EXERCISE PROGRAM Wednesdays from 9:30 - 10:30 am

Helps alleviate pain and stiffness, maintain range of motion, improve balance and coordination, increase endurance and overall health. This is a seated class with health tips given on steps you can take to healthier living. Space is limited. $2/class.

ARTHRITIS & MORE Wednesdays from 1 - 2 pm

This class is designed for those seeking to improve or maintain their mobility, muscle strength and functional ability.

This class will include a variety of exercises working from head to toe while sitting and standing. $2/class.

INTERMEDIATE CLASS LINE DANCING Thursdays from 9:15 am

For dancers with some prior line dance experience. High beginner and intermediate dances will be taught with more complicated steps and at a faster pace.

Students may move up to this class when they feel they are ready. Space is limited. $2/class.

BEGINNER CLASS LINE DANCING Thursdays from 10:10 - 11 am

For students, new to line dancing. Several easy beginner dances will be taught in each class. Instruction will proceed at an easy pace and repetition will be emphasized. Appropriate supportive shoes should be worn such as tennis shoes, boots, and flats. High heels and backless shoes are not appropriate. Safety is a priority. Space is limited. $2/class.

MOVIN’& GROOVIN Fridays from 9:30 - 10:20 am

Focuses on stretching, cardio, light weights and having fun! All taught to music! Learn safe ways to improve muscles to make every day activities easier.

Emphasis is on improving and maintaining overall health from head to toe. You won’t want to miss this class. Space is limited. $2/class.

cityofalabaster.com

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COUNCIL MINUTES

CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES (ABRIDGED) Unabridged version of minutes and resolutions/ordinances can be found on the city webpage at www.cityofalabaster.com.

Purchase of Two Grapple Trucks Motion Passed Unanimously Mayor Comments 4. Resolution 110518-C 1. Mayor Handlon recParks & Recreation Departognized Finance Director ment Purchase of Mowers and Treasurer John Haggard Motion Passed Unanimously for the City receiving the 5. Resolution 110518-D Certificate of Achievement Reject ALDOT Transporin Standard of Excellence in tation Alternative Set-Aside Finance Reporting from the Program Grant For Warrior Government Finance Officers Drive Improvements Association.

Motion Passed Unanimously 2. Proclamation – National 6. Motion Hospice and Palliative Care ABC Request – Shane Jones Month Enterprises, LLC / Warrior 3. Mayor Handlon anExpress 9970 Hwy 110 nounced that Veteran’s Day Motion Passed Unanimously the City would be holding a 7. Ordinance 181105-077 Flag Retirement Ceremony at Unmanned Aircraft Veterans Park.

System Usage (Drone) WITHDRAWN Agenda Items Motion Passed Unanimously, 1. Resolution 110518 Ordinance Withdrawn Alabaster Arts Council Agree- 8. **Ordinance 181119-078 ment 2019 Annexation 207 Wooten Motion Passed Unanimously Road – Set Public Hearing for 2. Resolution 110518-A November 19, 2018 City Clerk Appointment Motion Passed Unanimously, Motion Passed Unanimously, Public Hearing Set Appointment Made 9. **Ordinance 181119-079

Amending Garbage Code 3. Resolution 110518-B Section 34-10 – Set Public Public Works Department Hearing for Nov. 19, 2018 NOVEMBER 5, 2018, 7 PM

Absent: Greg Farrell (4)

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Motion Passed Unanimously, Public Hearing Set SAID MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:29 PM NOVEMBER 19, 2018, 7 PM

Mayor Comments 1. City of Alabaster Teen Council presented donations to: Alabaster Parks & Recreation, Warrior Center, Mitchell’s Place and Alabaster YMCA Aquatics Program.

2. ServPro- Mr. Rob Gerchow with ServPro presented a check to Alabaster Fire Department with money raised from a golf tournament.

3. Mayor Handlon shared a thank you note to the Mayor and Council from Marsha Massey.

Council Reports ALS Library – Sophie Martin Public Works and Garbage – Stacy Rakestraw Police Department – Russell Bedsole Fire Department – Greg Farrell Building and Fire Prevention Services – Kerri Pate

Agenda Items 1. *Resolution 111918 Public Hearing – Placement of Lien on 2030 Kent Dairy Road for Abatement Expenses Motion Passed Unanimously 2. Resolution 111918-A Amend Resolution 110518B – Public Works Grapple Trucks Purchase Motion Passed Unanimously 3. Resolution 111918-B Environmental Services Department Purchase of Pumps Motion Passed Unanimously 4. Resolution 111918-C Authorize Agreement with Williams Blackstock for Architectural and Engineering Design of Justice Center Build Motion Passed Unanimously 5. *Ordinance 181119-078 Public Hearing – Annexation Request 207 Wooten Road Motion Passed Unanimously 6. *Ordinance 181119-079 Public Hearing – Amending Garbage Code Section 34-10 of the Code of Ordinances Motion Passed Unanimously SAID MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:21 PM

CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

FOR MORE ON THE CITY COUNCIL

1st and 3rd Mondays each month at 7 p.m.

Visit www.cityofalabaster.com/161/City-Council

cityofalabaster.com

CITY COUNCIL SOPHIE MARTIN, WARD 1 506-8961 martin@cityofalabaster.com

CITY OF ALABASTER 1953 Municipal Way Alabaster, AL 35007 www.cityofalabaster.com 664-6800 MARTY HANDLON, MAYOR 664-6831 handlon@cityofalabaster.com

RICK ELLIS, WARD 2 ellis@cityofalabaster.com STACY RAKESTRAW, WARD 3 529-3326 rakestraw@cityofalabaster.com

RUSSELL BEDSOLE, WARD 5 205-229-6021 bedsole@cityofalabaster.com

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT 48 ALABASTER, AL

SCOTT BRAKEFIELD, PRESIDENT, WARD 6 brakefield@cityofalabaster.com KERRI PATE, WARD 7 965-8300 pate@cityofalabaster.com

GREG FARRELL, WARD 4 farrell@cityofalabaster.com

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