Alabaster Connection March 2016

The Official Publication of the City of Alabaster

Alabaster Connection March 2016

Alabaster Seniors

On the Move page 6

Take a Peek with Roy Woods Jr.• page 10 What Easter Means to Me • page 12

Local Student Bailey Vaughn Receives National Recognition • page 28

Learn Matore WebsMyite

I’m Asking for your Vote on March 1st In The Republican Primary I Believe Putting Family Values above Political Values Expanding Our Transportation Infrastructure Business-Friendly Environment Safe & Strong Schools Low Taxes

Bio: Lived in Alabaster since 2002 Started a Faith-Based Non-profit 2014 Leadership Shelby County Graduate Served as an Associate and Youth Pastor 3 wonderful children; Tate, Carson, & Sarah Paige Married to Suzanne since 1998

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From the Mayor’s Desk...

Bring on the springtime weather—especially since Easter is early this year! I hope each of you have enjoyed a meaningful Lenten season so far, and are looking forward to celebrating all that Easter means for us. I am ready for beautiful blooms all around us, and beautiful days at the ballfields. Let’s play ball!!

This month is the beginning of busy season for all parks.

There will be plenty of activity at all fields with the city’s youth sports programs and weekend travel ball tournaments. I know the new restrooms at Veterans Park will be appreciated by many this summer; and very soon, we will see improvements to some of the Tee Boxes along our Disc Golf Course. Members of our Park & Recreation Department work hard to keep Marty Handlon Mayor, City of Alabaster our parks in great condition for our residents, and they take pride in their work. If you see something damaged, broken, or not quite right, please don’t hesitate to bring it to their attention—as we have grown, there is more to maintain and care for, as well as more people enjoying all of it.

This is also the time of year we begin taking applications for new members to our Alabaster Teen Council. I hope many of our young people were able to enjoy the summer activities planned and sponsored by our current Teen Council. They have done an outstanding job this year, and I hope several of them will return for another year, so they can build on their experiences and help new members get involved. Any teenager (grades 8th through 11th) interested should complete an application found on the city website, or call city hall for more information.

At a February meeting, the city council appointed three new members to the Alabaster Industrial Development Board. I would like to thank the members rolling off with expired terms for their many years of dedicated service: Ollie Cotton, Brenda Fitzgerald, and Paul Hawanawitz. (Paul and Brenda are still serving the city on our Commercial Development Authority.) We welcome new members—Stan Brown, Charles Cornelius, and Chris Wade in their service to our city, and appreciate their desire to serve in this capacity. I hope each will receive personal joy through their commitment to serve.

We also have expired terms coming up on our Board of Zoning and Adjustment. If you would like to know more about this Board and are interested in serving, please complete a citizen involvement form so we can contact you.

Finally, I want to applaud our Warrior Wrestling program in their advancement to the State Championship tournament, in spite of a rough start this season. The Warriors may not have finished in first place, but we are proud of their representation and fight to the end. Congratulations to TJ Rayam, Dominic LaTona, and Gabe Hixenbaugh for their individual State Titles in their weight class. They still know who we are, and we will be back!

Have a Blessed Easter!

Board of Education

The City of Alabaster is accepting applications for the City of Alabaster Board of Education.

Applicants must be an Alabaster resident. Please complete and submit this application. You will be able to attach a resume, including cover letter detailing the special qualifications you can bring to this Board and why you are interested in serving. All final applicants are subject to a background check and drug screening test. Applications are due by March 25th school board application page www.cityofalabaster.com/residents/city-of-alabasterschool-board-application/

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 Laura Poythress

We welcome your comments and suggestions.

Call 447-2214 or email luke@me2graphics.com

To advertise call 447-2214

1953 Municipal Way Alabaster, AL 35007 ©2016 City of Alabaster

Non-Emergency City Numbers Police 24-Hours 663-7401 Alabaster Water Board 663-6155 Fire Department 664-6818

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CO u n c i l C o mm e n t s

Scott Brakefield, Ward 6 City Council President

Greetings! I trust everyone is doing well and looking forward to warmer temperatures. As the temperatures begin to rise, I would like to remind you to take advantage of our parks around the City. From Buck Creek Trail to Veterans Park, there are places for you to enjoy the warmer temps and beautiful weather. One of the Councils responsibilities is to encourage citizens to serve the City through the appointment to Boards. We are currently accepting applications for the Board of Adjustments, as well as the Alabaster City Schools Board of Education. If you have an interest in serving please visit the City web site and under the Residents tab fill out the Citizens involvement form.

Thanks to each of you. Our Citizens are the people that make our community great and a desired community to live in.

Sophie Martin, Ward 1

Progress continues in Ward 1. Phase 1 of the road repair project for Alabaster Boulevard was successfully completed.

This is the main area in front of Westwood Baptist Church.

Thank you to Public Works and to George Henry, City Manager for their help in ensuring this was accomplished with quality, within budget, and with little disruption to the many residents who travel this road on a daily basis.

In the next month, please look for information regarding a “Ward 1 Beautification Day”. With the weather warming up and spring upon us, this is a perfect opportunity to schedule a day to work together to pick up litter in our community. This will be an organized event and a celebration to follow immediately afterwards. We hope to see you there!

A special congratulations to Belinda Oden, a resident of Ward 1 who was recently recognized as the 2016 Alabaster City School Bus Driver of the Year. This is a very special honor for Belinda who was selected for her hard work, dedication and compassion for our children. Belinda consistently makes a positive impact in the lives of the many children she oversees every day ensuring they arrive safely to

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their destination. Thank you, Belinda, and congratulations on this special honor! You make us proud!

Please note that my main telephone number recently changed.

If you need to contact me by phone, please call me directly at 205506-8961 or email me at martin@cityofalabaster.com.

Please let me know if you have any questions, needs or ideas for Ward 1 or our city. It is an honor to serve the residents of Ward 1 and the City of Alabaster.

Kindest regards, Sophie

Bob Hicks, Ward 2

After a relatively mild February, I am a bit concerned over what may transpire weather wise during March. Please make sure all of your emergency kits are fully stocked with flashlights, water, weather radio, and non-perishable foodstuffs (never understood that word, but it takes in a wide range) in the event of access-limiting weather. I don’t want to panic anyone, but I do want everyone to be safe.

The folks at Park ‘n’ Rec have been very busy for the past few weeks giving our parks a face lift in preparation for the (hopefully) springlike weather coming all too soon.

All spring sports are wide open as of the printing of this letter, so take some time to hang out at the park with your family and cheering for your favorite team, playing some disc golf, walking the trails, picnicking, or just enjoying God’s beauty.

On Valentine’s Day, we drove through Starbucks so Lynn could get one of her beloved Chai Tea Lattes. When we got to the window, the person informed us that the car before us had paid for her drink. This A.R.K. (Act of Random Kindness) is exactly the type of spirit I asked us all to continue beyond the Christmas season and throughout the entire year. It provided a happy reminder that the essence of human nature is kindness and loving, and we just need to open it back up to sharing with all we meet. I was bummed that there was nobody behind me so I could pay it forward, but count yourself as tagged if you fall in line behind me in a drive-through.

Pass it on... Grace and peace, Bob

Stacy Rakestraw, Ward 3

Spring is around the corner and recently, the city was able to update our ordinance regarding yards and parcels with overgrown

weeds. The new process will allow us to handle and address these issues in a much quicker way and still preserve the rights of citizens.

In Ward 3, we have had numerous complaints about residents having chickens. As a reminder, farm animals are not allowed within the city limits.

I have been working to get help with the litter issue in the city and recently the council discussed trying what the city of Helena does. Hiring a part time person, designated solely to clean up litter weekly. As we get this under control, my hope is much of the littering will stop as people see our roadways clean.

The Alabaster Clean Sweep is coming up in April -Once again we will have the FREE, secure, paper shredding and technology recycling. We are checking into hazardous waste disposal as well, but it is not confirmed. All dates for activities during the Clean Sweep will be posted on the city website and in the newsletter at the beginning of April.

My decision to buy products/services or revisit a business depends greatly on their customer service. Publix and Habanero’s are two that stand out in my mind, in our city. Email me some local businesses that you have great experiences with.

Have a great spring break, safe travels and a very Happy Easter.

Rick Walters, Ward 4

As the weather continues to improve and the days get longer, construction of the Alabaster Exchange next to Arby’s on Hwy31 should be well underway. The final plan review was last month and we expect the developers to begin announcing their tenants. The mixed use development will consist of retail stores (restaurants/shops) and medical buildings that enhance the Medical Mile. Phase I should be completed later this year and Phase II is scheduled for 20172018. Improvements to the property will also include an upgrade to the water distribution system and sidewalks that connect the development to Shelby Baptist Hospital. Also under construction is the new high school campus. The bid was awarded last month by the Alabaster City School Board of Education and is also scheduled to be constructed in phases with the first phase completed in time for the 2017-2018 school year. March also brings back Daylight Savings time on Sunday March 13th and Easter on the 27th. I hope you have a great month and as always – Keep in Touch!

Russell Bedsole, Ward 5

Greetings again to all. I sincerely hope that everyone’s first two months of 2016 have been filled with blessings and joy. Each of us have needs from time to time. If you need assistance from your city it can be as easy as visiting www.cityofalabaster.com. Simply click on the “Report a Concern” tab, and send us your needs, complaints, or suggestions. You will receive a reply from a member of our staff at their earliest possible opportunity to let you know they are working on or have resolved your issue. Of course we still love to speak with you on the phone, so if you prefer, give us a call.

The city is seeking willing candidates to fill some vacant or expected vacancies in a few of the boards that serve our citizens. As a council we are granted the authority to make appointments to numerous boards. The Council is seeking applicants who posses the desire and time to serve on one of the following boards: Board of Zoning Adjustments, and the Alabaster City School Board.

Interested citizens should click on the “Citizen Involvement” button under the Residents tab at our website. We desire to fill these positions fast, so don’t delay.

Thank you again for taking the time to read my comments.

Please let me know how I may better serve you.

Tommy Ryals, Ward 7

Proverbs 29:18 says “Where there is no vision, the people perish…” Maybe a little dramatic to apply to a City’s Comprehensive Plan, but it’s true. If City leaders have no vision for the future, the people may not perish but they may disappear to other cities and the rest of us will be in a rut for sure. As I’m sure you have heard, the City has been working on updating the Comprehensive Plan. As the City’s website states: “A Comprehensive Plan is used as a guide to decision-making about the natural and built environment. The plan is used as a guide to making decisions regarding land use, development, growth management and capital improvements. It provides a framework for guiding public and private decisions that will affect new development as well as reinvestment in existing neighborhoods and business areas…. It is composed of a combination of maps, development policies and design guidelines.” It has been about 10 years since the last Comprehensive Plan update and many things have changed since then. The Mayor, City Manager, and Council have gone over this document in detail and are moving towards approval of this plan very soon. Take a minute and visit the City of Alabaster website and take a look at the latest cityofalabaster.com 5 vision for Alabaster.

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Alabaster Seniors

on the move The Alabaster Senior Center is a hub of activity. You will find hot meals, art classes, a friendly game of dominoes and exercise classes. But you might be surprised to find seniors on the move.

The Alabaster Senior Center averages about four trips per month. Some of them are simple outings to a local restaurant or antique shop while others are overnight, out of state trips.

“We try to do a variety of outings and trips for various reasons,” shared Alicia Walters, Seniors Adult Manager. “We want the seniors to do and see places they might never get to see. For some who don’t have a traveling buddy, it gives them a person to go with.”

For Walters the trips come in three types: outings, day trips, and overnight trips. “Some outings might take a few hours with not a lot of walking. We look for trips that require less walking and, maybe more importantly, not as many steps,” shared Walters. For the day trips, they typically travel for a while and do several activities at their destination. “We go to bingo and shopping, Talladega speedway, Old Town in Montgomery. We go to the symphony. We go to a Baron’s game.”

For overnight trips, Walters goes all out for the seniors. “Some of the past overnight trips we have taken were to the Biltmore, Savannah, Georgia, Helen, Georgia, and several state parks,” she shared. Some upcoming trips include a 2 night 3 day trip to Orange Beach, a 2 night 3 day Nash-

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“I want to provide activities, outing and trips that make the seniors happy. That is my job but that is where my heart is as well.”

-Alicia Walters, Senior Center Adult Manager

ville trip. And a projected 3 night 4 day motor coach trip to Charleston, South Carolina.

“The idea behind all of these trips is to try to provide a variety of outings based on interest, ability, time, and cost,” she shared. There are fees attached to the trips based on the scale of the trips but every effort is made to make them as affordable as possible. “Right now we are in a peak travel season. March through May and September through November are great times for us to do more, and longer, trips and outings,” shared Walters. During

the busy months, they might make eight trips and the slower months might be as many as five trips.

When Walters came to the Center eight years ago, the Senior Center was not nearly as active. “When I first got here 8 years ago we didn’t do a lot of outings. We started with a simple outing, and we went to the Cracker Barrel and the Dollar Tree. From there we grew,” she said with a laugh. And grow they have. One recent trip was full with paid deposits and a waiting list of over 15 within two hours. “The seniors just love it and they want more,” she exclaimed. “I am always open and always asking for new ideas. And a lot of the seniors will send me trip ideas.”

Walters has taken many of their suggestions and added them to the schedule.

“I do hear very positive comments on outings we do,” Walters humbly shared. “What I hear is these trips give them a vehicle to do things they might not normally do.

So I think it does open a door to see something they might never see, or do something they might never have done.” This thankfulness comes from the seniors’ families as well. “I do think the seniors’ families are very thankful for the trips we take their loved ones on,” she said.

Judy Pinson, one of the many seniors who have taken advantage of these trips, is thrilled that she has gotten the chance to travel with her friends. “We just laughed, cut up, and carried on. It is like another family. Someone was always carrying on some sort of foolishness to make 15AAC0004 2/12/2016 - 4:50pm

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the time pass,” she shared about her most recent trip.

When asked why she went on the trip, her answer sounded like one a college student might give: “One thing is you are laughing, you are out doing something you won’t do sitting at home.” She added, “My kids have their own life they don’t need to be worrying about me. I want to keep active.”

Pinson pointed to the ease of the travel as another perk “It is planned from the beginning to the end. Oh yes, and they have a paramedic that comes. Nothing serious, but he is there to help us if we need it. We feel safe, it is like you take a family trip. I envision it as a family trip,” Pinson remarked.

Pinson also had praise for Alicia Walters. “She always does us good by food. She always makes an effort to find neat spots on the way. Even something different just to try,” shared Pinson. “We don’t have any worries. If something goes wrong, it is Alicia’s problem,” she added with a laugh.

For Walters this is not just part of her job description, it is what drives her. “I want to provide activities, outings, and trips that make the seniors happy. That is my job but that is where my heart is as well,” she thoughtfully remarked.

To find out more about the Alabaster Senior Center visit www.cityofalabaster.com or call 205.663.1307 Fees do apply to trips and space is limited.

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Serving Alabaster’s Active Needs

In November of 2009 a group of concerned citizens saw a need and wanted to help. “We started when Shelby County was over our schools, and we saw a large void in the funds provided to the Alabaster schools,” shared Rachel Blackmon, Vice President of the non-profit Alabaster Sports and Entertainment Foundation (ASEF). “When we started, we were focused on ensuring our facilities were repaired and functional; now that Alabaster has taken over the

“We volunteer to ensure the children of Alabaster have the opportunity to compete at the same level as all other schools in our area. We are proud of our community and want to continue to give back.”

-Rachel Blackmon, Vice President ASEF Board

helped purchase a new sound system for the football stadium in August of 2013, renovated the gym floor at the high school in the amount of $14,000 in August school system, we can focus on providing extra equipment, special needs, and specialty items,” she added. As the foundation moves forward they are planning to continue this level of excellence. “We strive to ensure all programs and teams are given the opportunity to request and receive funds,” she shared.

The board of the ASEF is composed of local citizens looking to make a difference. These board members include: Jamia Alexander Williams, President; Rachel Blackmon, Vice President; Misty Johnson, Treasury; Sharon Hayes, Secretary. These residents make up the officers, but it is the army of volunteers that make the ASEF function. “We volunteer to ensure the children of Alabaster have the opportunity to compete at the same level as all other schools in our area. We are proud of our community and want to continue to give back,” Blackmon enthusiastically shared.

Over the past few years, the ASEF has been able to provide many wonderful opportunities for recreation for our students. “One highlight that was for our whole community was the disc golf course at Veterans Park. The ASEF donated a large sum of money to help fund this. We also 8 cityofalabaster.com

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2012, sponsored and coordinated a community wide pep rally in August 2015 to kick off the football season, and helped purchase a pole vault pit for the track team in 2014. Until this was purchased, we could not offer pole vaulting,” Blackmon shard. This year alone they have donated over $20,000 to sports at Thompson High School and Thompson Middle school. “We will also be awarding two $500 scholarships, one female and one male, to deserving seniors from Thompson High School. We will begin accepting applications soon,” Blackmon added.

Of course it takes many different organizations to make the ASEF a success. “Thanks to the City of Alabaster,” said Blackmon, “who allows us to run the concession stands at the local parks - Veterans, Buck Creek and Warrior. One hundred percent of the proceeds goes back into the community. This is a win-win arrangement for all involved.” The ASEF would also like to thank the Alabaster City Schools Board of Education for its increased investment in the schools.

The next upcoming event for 2016 includes scholarship opportunities and the 2016 Community Pep Rally to kick off the fall sports season.

To find out more about the ASEF visit them online at www.alabastersportsfoundation.com.

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A Peep in the Mirror

Roy Wood Jr. is a retired widower in his 80’s, and he can tell some stories. He shares about his early days courting his wife. He tells stories of divine providence. He tells stories with the same energy the first time as the hundredth time. He is a natural born story teller. Yet it was not until three years ago that he learned that he inherited this natural gift from his father.

When Wood was a young man in his early 30s, his father passed away. As Wood tells it, his father married late in life, and by the time he got around Mr. Roy Wood Jr. reading a copy of his father’s writings A Peep in the Mirror.

As Wood read his father’s words, the joy of the moment bubbled to the surface.

to having a family he did not have much time left to spend with them. It was after his father’s death that he was handed a treasure chest disguised as an old box. “The box came to me on its own when my father died,” Wood shared. “It is a lap desk, that’s what it is.”

The year was 1959. And what did he do with this old lap desk full of handwritten notes, sheets of printed music, and other penned archives from his father? “I just put it on the shelf,” he responded.

It was not until much later in life that the “box” started to be mined for the treasure that was inside.

“My granddaughter in-law, down in Mobile, asked if she could take it home with her to look through it.

I said sure. After a while she came back to visit and to return the box. She told me I should have a look inside,” Wood recalled. Yet it was not to be. He placed the box back where he always did, on the shelf in his living room without opening it. And there it sat for another two years.

It was not until his wife died that he got the desire to really look inside. “After my wife died,” shared Wood, “I was sitting by myself and thought of a song my father used to sing. I thought if he wrote it, he might have it in the box. That is when I was blown away with all the poems, songs, and short stories.”

Within a year of opening the box Wood had the mostly handwritten pages typed up and sent off to a 10 cityofalabaster.com

printer for what would become A Peep in the Mirror, a collection of over two dozen poems, hymns, tunes, and short stories written by his father, brother, and even some by himself.

When Wood talks of the book he is really grasping at the father he never knew. “My father married my mother in 1925; as far as I can tell he wrote most of these between 1910 and 1920. My mother might never have known about most of these,” he surmised. In the preface to the book Wood writes, “A Peep in the Mirror is a book that had to be, for it is about the dad I had before I knew the dad I had.”

Wood opened a copy of the book and turned to a page with one of his favorite poems written by his father. “There Ain’t Nuffin A-Doin” is the name of the poem and he started to read it out loud. As Wood read his father’s words, the joy of the moment bubbled to the surface. Wood laughed aloud at the humorous parts of the poem, calling them comical, and he placed all the right emphasis on all the right elements. Yet with all the polish he reads with, it is as if he was reading it for the very first time. All the joy, all the excitement, all the pleasure of discovering a lost father came out into the open. It can be summed up as the proud love of a son towards his father.

Wood is not selling these books, as he said no one could afford them they are so special to him, but he has gifted copies to local libraries and historical societies. To view a copy, visit the Alabaster Senior Center, and be sure to read “There Ain’t Nuffin A-Doin.” And try not to smile. Roy Wood Jr. is betting that you can’t.

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What Does Easter Mean To Me?

“Easter is really about God’s great love for us.

We celebrate the fact that Jesus Christ died on a cross, and came back to life 3 days later, to purchase salvation for all people! “This is real love- not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. “ 1 John 4:10 NLT -Brandon Doss, Cultivate Church

“Easter is the day we celebrate the unmerited favor and limitless grace and mercy that is freely provided to us. This was accomplished when Jesus Christ, God robed in flesh, died on the cross to redeem us from sin. Through His gift of salvation we have the promise of life more abundantly and eternal life with Him.” -Tony Roberts, Pastor Abundant Life Church

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“It means everything! It means God loved this world and every person in it so much that God was willing to give up heaven to become one of us. Easter means mercy is real and forgiveness is possible and hope will never die. The resurrection of Jesus Christ means we have the promise of eternal life and that someday I will be reunited those I love and miss so deeply. Easter also means we can have a better life right here and right now because Jesus not only died for us, he showed us a better way to live and love. Most of all, Easter means resurrection cannot be limited to one day a year; Easter means we can be resurrected every single day through the love, life and sacrifice of Christ Jesus.”

-Sherry Harris, Alabaster First United Methodist Church

“Because of Easter, we have life with the living Christ. The Christian life isn’t a solo, but a duet. We live it in partnership with Christ. As the apostle Paul wrote, “I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live, yet not I, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). There is a sense in which the old life of disobedience dies when we come to faith in Christ, and the son of God takes up residence in our lives. Some insist, “I can’t live the Christian life.” This may be true, but Christ can! Others say, “I’m afraid I can’t hold out.” This may be true, but Christ will strengthen you. We don’t live the Christian life alone. Because of Easter, we have life eternal. Columbus sailed into the unknown in 1492, but returned with a message: “There’s nothing to fear. A new world awaits!” Jesus crossed into the realm of death and retuned with a similar message. Death for the believer is a portal to a new world.”

-Michael Brooks Suliria Baptist Church

“Easter is so meaningful to me because it is the greatest miracle in the history of mankind. God became a man, gave his life on a cross, and was resurrected from the dead so that everyone could experience unconditional forgiveness of sin. I am so grateful for his sacrifice!”

-Bronson Moore, Pastor Church of the Highlands Alabaster Campus

“Easter means new life, second chances and all the grace we need to live a vibrant, Christian life!”

- Jay West, Pastor Kingwood Church “Easter means that something bigger than this world and it’s problems win. In a world that seems to consume us daily, with its worries and concerns, God the Father, as evidenced through the power of the resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ, let us all know that nothing would stand in the way of His love for us ~ not even death. “ Look at how great a love the Father has given us that we should be called God’s children. And we are!” 1st John 3:1a -Bo Brown, Pastor – Community Baptist Church

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Calendar

Community March

1st Water Board 7 p.m.

2nd Trial Docket 9 a.m.

8th Housing and Abatement Board 5 p.m.

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

14th Alabaster City School Board 5:30 p.m.

14th Council 7 p.m.

21st Board of Zoning Adjustments 6:30 p.m.

22nd Planning and Zoning 7 p.m.

23rd Court Plea Dockets 9 a.m. & 2 p.m.

28th Council 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: 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 Dates March 25 – 27 Friends of the Albert L. Scott Library Be a Friend!

The Friends is a group of dedicated booklovers that wants everyone to know the benefits the library offers, and how members can increase its effectiveness. We have semi-annual book sales to raise funds for special books and activities for all ages. We also maintain several areas at the library where books can be purchased at bargain prices. These are books that have been donated, so here’s an option for those books you no longer want in your private library. For as little as $10 a year you can be a Friend and support the library. There are several levels of membership, and always opportunities for a few hours of volunteering. Be a Friend! Application forms are available at the Library or at www.cityofalabaster.com 16 cityofalabaster.com

Save the Date!

April 8-10 Spring Book Sale Tai Chi for Health Wednesdays, 1:30 p.m.

Beginning March 2nd, 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. Participants must complete the Enrollment Form at the front desk before the first class. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and shoes that will not slip during movement. Program takes place in the Meeting Room.

Adult Computer Classes Call or come by to sign up. 664-6822.

March 2, 10 am – Computer Basics March 9, 10 am – Basic Internet & Email March 16, 10 am – Microsoft Word 2013 Part 1 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.

ABC & Ds of Medicare March 14, 1 p.m.

Karen Haiflich, of the Medicare Information Source, will help you navigate through the process of Medicare. Learn about filing, benefits, and get answers to any other questions you might have.

Program takes place in the Meeting Room.

Library Book Group March 17, 7 p.m.

Join us to discuss At the Water’s Edge by Sara Gruen. A gripping and poignant love story about a privileged young woman’s awakening as she experiences the devastation of World War II in a tiny village in the Scottish Highlands. Program takes place in the meeting room.

Cake & Culture March 20, 2 p.m.

Glenn Wills’ Forgotten Alabama -Photographer Glenn Wills has a gift for finding beauty in abandoned houses and derelict buildings across the state of Alabama. His popular blog-turned-book, Forgotten Alabama, documents these ruins to preserve memories of days gone by. History buffs and photography enthusiasts alike will enjoy a presentation and discussion of Mr. Wills’ photos. Program takes place in the Meeting Room.

Library Board Meeting March 22, 6 p.m.

Job Search Workshops Will resume after tax season

youth Events

All programs are in the Meeting Room behind the youth department. Children 6 years old and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

STory Times Wednesdays 10:15 a.m.

Outreach Story Time at area day care centers Wednesdays 3:30 p.m.

Tunes & Tales for all in the Meeting Room Fridays 10:30 a.m.

Toddler Tales for 2 and 3 year olds in the Meeting Room Miss Jennie’s Story Time Themes: • Five Senses • Pete the Cat • St. Patrick’s Day and More • Spring Is Here/Easter Time • Funny Animal Stories Lego League March 1, 6:00 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.

Guests from Alabama 4-H will be on hand for our first-ever Lego building contest. The theme is ‘New Creations.’ The fun is in the meeting room.

Happy Birthday 100th Birthday Ezra Jack Keats!

March 11, 4:30 p.m.

Join us for a birthday party for acclaimed children’s author Ezra Jack Keats. Listen to some of his stories, make a craft, and eat something sweet. Children 5 years old and older can sign up. Kids 6 years old and younger must be with an adult. The festivities are in the meeting room.

Pete the Cat Book Club March 15, 6:00 p.m.

This club is the cat’s meow for kids 5 years old and older! Reading, talking, laughing, sharing! Sign up for the fun that happens in the meeting room.

American Girls Club Girls March 18 , 4:00 p.m.

Girls 7 years old and older can sign up for a special springtime activity: Easter Huts with Julie Littleton. Meets in the meeting room.

Dye-ing to Color Eggs Workshop March 22, 6:15 p.m.

How EGG-citing! Come dye eggs with us! $3.00 per half-dozen eggs. Please sign up and pay in advance by March 21. Make checks out to the library. All children must be with an adult.

Meets in the meeting room.

Hippity-Hoppity Tales with the Easter Bunny March 23, 10:15 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

EGG-traordinary fun! Young children accompanied by an adult can come for fun with “Miss Spring” and the Easter Bunny! Visit with the Easter Bunny and get a goody bag! The fun is in the meeting room.

Spring Break Story Time March 30, 10:15 a.m.

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 205-6646840 or visit www.alabasterparks.org.

STAY INFORMED THRU EMAILS If you are not receiving 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. All you have to enter is your name and email address.

Payments NOTE: We cannot accept Checks as a method of payment.

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

ADULT SOFTBALL REGISTRATION March 1 - March 31 Registration for teams (not individuals) will begin on March 1 at 8:00 am and end on March 31 at 5:00 pm at the Depot. On-Line Registration for teams (not individuals) will begin on March 1 at 8:00 am and end on March 31 at 11:00 pm. Fee: $285.00. No registration form accepted without payment in full. Five leagues will be offered: Open Coed, Coed Church, Open Rec., Open Competitive, and Men’s Church. Teams may begin practicing once their entry fee has been paid. Leagues will begin play in May. For more information, please contact Nik McCrimon at 664-6840 or nmccrimon@cityofalabaster.com YOUTH SOCCER Games will begin at Municipal Park on March 18. Picture Day is scheduled for March 19. Be sure to attend at least one Soccer game this season to show your support of our local youth even if you don’t have anyone playing. It’s free!

Calendar

Parks and Rec events continued...

YOUTH BASEBALL/GIRL’S SOFTBALL Parade of Teams will occur on March 18 at Veterans Park. 6:00 pm – Announcement of teams. 7:00 pm – Alabaster Fire Dept. vs. Alabaster Police Dept. in a Softball game. You won’t want to miss the excitement of this annual game!! They played for the first time last year with the Police Dept. winning. No doubt the Firemen are gearing up to try to win this year. It’s a lot of fun to watch as they compete against each other. And it’s FREE family entertainment! Opening Day will be on March 19. Picture Day is scheduled for April 9. Be sure to come out and show your support of our boys and girls as they enter another season of Baseball and Softball. There’s no entry fee. And there’s a great concession stand available to purchase food and drinks.

On-Line Pavilion Rentals Visit 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.

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.

Note: Space is limited in exercise classes. Sign up for each class begins 30 minutes prior to the start of a class. First come, first serve basis.

Day trip to the Milky Way Farm Wednesday, April 20 We will travel to Pulaski Tennessee to experience a guided walking tour of the 20 bedroom Manor home. You will learn the history of the Milky Way 18 cityofalabaster.com

candy bar, the farms Kentucky Derby winner and the 1930’s farm operations through today. Space is limited. Cost is $30/ person. Includes transportation, admission and lunch.

Drumming is back!

March 1, 10 a.m.

No experience necessary but the benefits are endless. The benefits of drumming: improve your mood, increase circulation, and improve focus, low impact exercise and creativity.

No charge for this program. Sign up at the senior center.

AARP Smart Driver Class Friday, March 4, 9 a.m. -3:30 p.m.

This is a 6 hour classroom refresher that can help the effects of aging on your driving and how you can adjust your driving. Cost is $15.00/AARP member and $20.00/AARP non-member. Bring your own lunch. Make checks payable to AARP. You will need to stop by the Senior Center and reserve your spot.

Bingo and shopping at the outlets in Leeds Tuesday, March 8 We will have fun playing bingo, eating lunch and shopping at the Grand River outlets in Leeds. Cost is $1 to reserve your spot and you will need to bring $8-10 for lunch. Space is limited. Sign up at the Senior Center.

Mixed Media Class (2 day class) March 14, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.

March 15, 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

You will be using gesso and layering mixed media on canvas. Space is limited. Cost is $12.00 to reserve your spot. No experience necessary.

Latin/Salsa Dance Night Friday, March 18, 6:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Come dance the night away to Latin music. Cost is $5/person. Light refreshments will be served. Must have purchased a ticket prior to dance. No tickets will be sold at the door.

Two Needle Jewelry Stringing Class Friday, March 18, 12:00 p.m. - 2 p.m.

Learn how to use two needles to create a beautiful necklace.

You will be using seed beads and Czech mate square two hold beads. This technique can be used to create a variety of necklaces and bracelets from beads you have at home. The only tools we will be using are the needles. Be aware that the seed beads are small so don’t forget your glasses. Cost is $12/ person and all supplies are included. Space is limited Wellness Checks and Education Tuesday, March 22, 9 a.m.

The Alabaster Fire Department will be here at 9 a.m. to check blood pressure and blood sugar. Following at 10 a.m. they will lead an informative basic first aid session. Come and learn a little more about what to do in an emergency.

Upcoming Book Club Monday, March 28, 10 a.m.

We will meet every 4th Monday to discuss the book and introduce a new book. Sign up at the senior center.

Check out our great fitness/exercise classes!

Note: Space is limited in exercise classes. Sign up for each class begins 30 minutes prior to the start of a class. First come, first serve basis.

Head to Toe Fitness Class Mondays, 1 - 2 p.m.

Build muscular strength, increase your cardiovascular endurance, and improve your balance, flexibility, and range of motion as you have fun and move to the music! Do all this while seated or standing……it’s your choice! This class will incorporate the use of hand weights, resistance tubing, balls, etc. into an enjoyable exercise class that will help you manage activities of everyday living with ease. So join us as we strengthen our body, mind and spirit, and support each other in the pursuit to make everyday a healthier day! $2/class.

Gentle Yoga Tuesdays, 1:15 - 2:15 p.m.

An hour class that combines traditional yoga postures and breathing techniques. Gentle movement is modified to allow the class to be completed by a standing or seated participant. All levels of fitness are welcome. Cost is $2/person and space is limited.

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Arthritis Exercise Program Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

This class helps improve pain and stiffness, maintain range of motion, balance, coordination, and also increases endurance and improves overall health. Space is limited. $2/class.

Line dancing Thursdays, 9:15 a.m.

Join us on Thursdays for the 9:15 a.m. intermediate class or the 10:10 a.m. beginner class. No experience necessary. Cost $2/class.

Tempo!

Fridays, 10 a.m.

This exercise class will focus on stretching, cardio, light weights and having fun! You won’t want to miss this class. $2/class.

You won’t want to miss all the other Activities at the Senior Center...

Timeless Treasures (singing): Mondays, 10:00 a.m.

Head to Toe Fitness: Mondays, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Gentle Yoga: Tuesdays, 1:15 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.

Rook/Rummikub: Wednesdays, 9:00 a.m.

Arthritis Exercise: Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.

Zumba Gold (exercise): Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m.

Beginner/Inter Line Dancing: Thursdays, 9:15 a.m.

Beginner Line Dancing: Thursdays, 10:10 a.m.

Bridge: Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Tempo exercise: Fridays, 10 a.m.

Join me in Alabaster.

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Jeff Bentley BENTLEY INSURANCE INC. (205)663-6223 bentlej6@nationwide.com Jeff Bentley/Nationwide Insurance Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Home Office: Columbus, OH 43215. © 2014. Not all Nationwide affiliated companies are mutual companies and not all Nationwide members are insured by a mutual company. Nationwide, Nationwide is On Your Side, and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. NPR-0753AO (9/14)

Jeff Bentley BENTLEY INSURANCE INC. (205)663-6223 bentlej6@nationwide.com Jeff Bentley/Nationwide Insurance

Around Town

City Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged)

(Unabridged version of minutes and resolutions/ordinances can be found on city webpage at www.cityofalabaster.com)

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January 11 , 7:00 p.m.

Absent: Russell Bedsole

Agenda Items *Public Hearing on these items 1. Resolution 011116 Veterans Restroom Upgrades Council Member Hicks made a motion to approve Resolution 011116, funding for a restroom facility at Veterans Park not to exceed $46,000 from capital funds. Council Member Ryals seconded. Council President Brakefield called for a roll call vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously Said meeting adjourned at 7:05 p.m.

January 25th, 7:00 p.m.

Agenda Items *Public Hearing on these items

1. Ordinance 160125-018* Rezoning Request Western REI, LLC Council Member Ryals re-introduced Ordinance 160125-018. Council President Brakefield opened the public meeting allowing those present to speak for and against said Ordinance. Mr. Jason Spinks, representative for Western REI, LLC, spoke in favor of said Ordinance to rezone certain acres from PRD-1, MR and R-7 to A creating a contiguous 486 acre tract zoned agricultural. No one else spoke for or against said Ordinance. Council Member Ryals made a motion to approve Ordinance 160125-018.

Council Member Hicks seconded. Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 2. Motion 050/070 Liquor License Circle K Council Member Martin made a motion to approve the 050/070 Off-premise liquor license request from Circle K. Council Member Rakestraw seconded.

Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously Said meeting adjourned at 7:13 p.m.

20 cityofalabaster.com

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Around Town

Driving Mr. and Ms. Alabaster Senior Jim Daw Citizen Spotlight

Jim Daw, with the Alabaster Parks and Rec, was busy in his makeshift workshop, the old YMCA, making an old timey chalkboard for a future presentation at City Hall. “I told them that as long as it is standing, I might was well use it,” he matter-of-factly shared.

He has used the improvised shop to create new bookshelves for the Senior Center, other bits of furniture, and just about anything else that they ask him to make. His stock answer to such requests, he humbly said, is, “I suppose I can try.” It is this servant-heart attitude, and willingness to try, that has drawn Daw so many admirers.

Daw moved to Alabaster 22 years ago. “I got married to a girl from down here. Ensley is where I was raised up at,” he recalled. He started his career with Alabaster about seven and half years ago. Daw is famous for his giving spirit and playful personality, and the other guys in the department call him Pawpaw.

It was his willingness to try something new that really set him apart though. “They asked me if I would be interested in driving the bus for the seniors and I

“It is a lot of fun. I enjoy it a lot. They all cut up with me. I’m just one of the gang.”

-Jim Daw

told them, ‘Yeah I would be interested.’ So I got my Commercial Driver License (CDL) close to three years ago,” he explained.

That decision has made quite a difference. “It is a lot of fun. I enjoy it a lot. They all cut up with me. I’m just one of the gang,” he shared with a smile. He has taken the seniors on dozens of trips all over the state 22 cityofalabaster.com

Jim Daw standing in front of one of the buses he regularly drives for the Alabaster Senior Center.

and into Tennessee and Georgia. “We have gone to Loretta Lynn Ranch, in Tennessee, and Wheeler Park. They go on flea market trips, visit antique stores, and other day outings. Then the senior’s gardening club goes on their trips like to Auburn or local gardening shops,” he rattled off. “Next month we go to Mobile, and that is an overnight trip.”

Before Daw started driving, there was only one other driver for the larger bus, which meant there was less help for the seniors as they would make their trips. “When we get to where we are going, I help the seniors get on and off the bus. Then I get out and follow behind the group, kind of bringing up the rear. If one of the seniors get tired, I sit with them on a bench while the rest go ahead. Or I might help some of them get up the stairs. Just whatever I need to do to lend a hand,” Daw shared.

The Alabaster Senior Center seniors enjoy the trips almost as much as Daw does. “Oh you should see them! They get here early - I don’t care if it is raining or cold - and then they get in a line. They want to be the first one on the bus, to sit in the front. Usually we have a full bus: 18-20 people. We will probably fill up the new 33 seat bus too. There are a lot of people that don’t go because we don’t have the room,” explained Daw. Before joining the City he worked for Alabama Power reading meters, and before that he owned his own painting company for 25 years. When he is not working, he loves hanging out with his grandchildren. “When they come over they come right in and see me because they know I’ll have some candy for them,” he shared with a laugh. He enjoys hunting and golfing, although he’s done both less frequently over the past few years.

When asked when Daw will retire, he said with a laugh, “My wife won’t let me until she does first.” But you get the sense that with Daw he would retire not to play more golf or to relax, but to free up more time to lend a hand. “I just say if you need [it] and I can do it, I’ll do it,” Daw remarked with a shrug.

Preserving Memories and Making New Ones Southern Vintage Market 8111 Hwy 119 South Business Spotlight

For over 30 years Mary and Walter Lee worked with her mother, who ran an estate sale business. They would purchase the assets of a home like the furniture and such and then sell it off piece by piece. These items sold would move on to make other families happy. After the Lees retired they

When you arrive you will also notice the vast collection of excellent furniture, tableware, and other home accessories all in various styles and prices. decided to take a step of faith and open of their own antique shop, Southern Vintage Market. That was over two years ago.

What really sealed the deal of opening their own storefront was when the Lees attend a going out of business sale.

It was not uncommon for them to attend these sales for their estate business. But what transpired would change their retirement plans. The company that went out of business served it community faithfully for 95 years and over that time they acquired many unique pieces of furniture. The Lees bidded on and bought many items, but one piece really caught their eye. It was a 35 foot long and over 8 feet high display case that really stood out. It was the last item to be sold at this sale. The Lees knew they wanted it. So after a few rounds of bidding they won. But they had no idea on what to do with this stunning case now that they won it.

As they Lees tell it they decided to open up Southern Vintage Market, if for no other reason than to have a place for this special item. And if you enter their store you cannot help but notice the dazzling case. When you arrive you will also notice the vast collection of excellent furniture, tableware, and other home accessories all in various styles and prices. You will find yourself picking up small pieces that bring back memories from grandma’s house. As you run

When you come to the vintage car, turn there to find Southern Vintage Market.

your hands along a tabletop you will recall the table your aunt had at her home. And when you pick up a set of gobles you might even recall a special day from your past where you raised a toast in the honor of someone special.

Southern Vintage Market is full of memorable novelty items and prosaic items. Each with their own story. Each with a past. But because of the Lees they each also have a future.

To visit Southern Vintage Market you will need to go Wednesday through Saturday 10-5 p.m. They are located at 8111 Hwy 119 1 mile south of Publix.

Lauri Williams, DMD, PC Charles Bordenca, DMD

Phone 205.664.2130 Fax 205.664.0287 After Hours 205.941.0631 219 First Street North Alabaster, AL 35007

Around Town

Answer the Call to Serve Sue Hamlin Employee Spotlight

Sue Hamlin, Senior Clerk with Alabaster’s Public Works was having a great morning. “I recently moved offices and now I have a view,” she excitedly shared as she pointed out the window to the snow showers slowly falling. And while Sue was snug and warm in her office, she knew that the rest of her department was out in the cold, or heat, or whatever the weather serving the community of Alabaster.

“Public Works has a lot of good workers that will get out of their trucks and go beyond what they have to do to make the customer happy,” Hamlin said. She often gets callers who want her to pass along a “thank you” for a job well done. “I think our department cares. We care about making appearances look good. Making the public happy, the customers happy. We work hard for that,” she asserted.

Sue Hamlin joined Public Works about a year ago to relieve some of the administrative duties from Mark Harris, the department head. “He was having to do his job as head of Public Works as well as answer the phones, answer emails. It became way too much, since it kept him tied to

“Public Works has a lot of good workers that will get out of their trucks and go beyond what they have to do to make the customer happy.”

-Sue Hamlin his desk. I have been able to fill that role and allowed him to get out more,” she said. Now Hamlin answers phone calls, follows up with emails, and handles many of the back office tasks.

“Every day is different,” she declared with a smile. “I answer all the questions that the public has in regard to the street and the garbage service.”

Her goal with every interaction is always the same, to make it right. “I had one resident that was upset 24 cityofalabaster.com

Sue Hamlin enjoys serving the residents of Alabaster.

that there were some trees on the easement that were blocking sightlines and dropping branches. So one of our crews went out to the site, trimmed the trees and cleaned up the debris,” she shared. She added, “I know we will do everything we can to make it right.”

Hamlin takes her job very seriously because Alabaster is where she calls home. “I moved to Alabaster over 30 years ago. My kids grew up here and went to Thompson High School (THS). They played sports at THS. They earned scholarships to college. My kids still live here - my two granddaughters and my soon to be third granddaughter,” she proudly shared.

After years of living here, she has seen quite a bit of change for the better. “I have really enjoyed seeing Alabaster grow to have restaurants and shopping,” she said. But her biggest excitement is over the new sports facilities. “ I have also enjoyed watching the fields come out. When my kids were little we worked hard to make the fields better,” she recalled. “To have a child in Alabaster would be just amazing. To see Veterans Park and all those others fields it is awesome. I thought it was good then, it is even better now,” she exclaimed.

She spent many years watching her two sons play sports, first in the city’s youth leagues, then up through their high school years. “It was wonderful. It was my life. I was at practices, I was at games. I sat with other moms. I still call many of them friends today after all these years,” she fondly remembered.

When Hamlin is not busy at work she can be found spending time at the beach or with her grandchildren who call her Lulu. And she is always ready to answer your concern with a goal of making it right.

Serving Hot Meals for the Homebound Meals on Wheels Alabaster Helps

When the homebound elderly are unable to shop for their own groceries, or cook their own food, options for eating are limited. Because of this, the Alabaster Senior Center partners as a hub for Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging (M4A) and Meals on Wheels, delivering meals to Alabaster residents in need.

Through the help of volunteer drivers, and others who help heat and package meals, Alabaster is able to deliver meals to 16 clients each week, Monday through Friday.

One thing the Senior Center is known for is helping encourage seniors to stay active and contribute to others. “Many of our volunteers are seniors, and some are just people who love to give back,” said Alicia Walters, the Senior Center Manager. “Some have been volunteering for many years,” Walters said. “They are really getting something out of it, too.”

While delivering meals is meeting a need for those wanting food, it can also serve as an opportunity to help those delivering the meals. “I helped deliver meals for five years,” said Lauren Headrick, former Meals on Wheels volunteer. “It was such an enriching experience,

getting to know the people on my route, hearing their stories and soaking in their wisdom,” said Headrick.

M4A serves to evaluate the needs of each Meals on Wheels applicant. Once needs have been established, M4A staff determine dietary restrictions and how those can be met through Meals on Wheels. M4A A volunteer with Meals on Wheels then contacts prepares the meals for the day. their hubs, including the Alabaster Senior Center, to determine if that particular hub’s volunteer base allows any new clients.

The system is designed to allow as many needs as possible to be met, but is dependent on the volunteer work of others. “The more volunteer drivers we have, the more

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Around Town

routes we are able to take on,” said Walters. The hubs do not purchase and cook the food, but are given a certain amount of food based on M4A’s assessments and the hub’s ability to deliver. Once that food is delivered, volunteers work quickly to heat and package the meals for safe delivery.

Currently, the Alabaster Senior Center has 19 volunteer Meals on Wheels drivers who rotate through two separate routes to deliver 16 different meals, Monday through Friday, every week. They also have a handful of volunteers who help warm and package the meals.

Anyone is able to volunteer, Walters said. Potential volunteers are encouraged to contact the Alabaster Senior Center to see how they may help with meal delivery. Anyone wanting to receive home deliveries, or sign a family member up to receive them, is encouraged to contact M4A.

Ways to get

INVOLVED: •

Put meals together

•

Deliver meals

•

Potential volunteers can call Alabaster Senior Center: 205-663-1307

•

M4A’s phone number is 205-670-5770

Apologetics at ECCS

by ECCS Seniors, Alex Herndon and Hannah Turner Grammar. Logic. Rhetoric. As ECCS students we hear it all the time across the disciplines. In science, in math, in history, in literature over and over again.

The what of the subject—the “grammar”; the how of the subject—the “logic”; and the why is it important—the “rhetoric.” The Trivium of Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric provides the basis for the model of education at Evangel Classical Christian School. This model is as old as the Middle Ages, and it’s one that we have found works across all subjects and grade levels. Perhaps in no other subject, however, is our classical educa26 cityofalabaster.com

“Apologetics is the bridge between faith and intellect.”

-Bailey Vaughn ECCS Senior tion more important to our future as human beings than in our Bible classes. We have been learning the grammar of the Bible—what it says—since we were in kindergarten. We have been seriously examining how scripture can be applied to all aspects of life since our seventh grade World View Class. In 8th and 9th grades, we studied and Old and New Testaments in depth, making applications of what the scriptures say to how we should live. In 10th grade we learned the history of the early church—how the Scriptures we have today as the Holy Bible came together. In 11th grade, we learned the doctrines of Christianity—who man is, who God is, what sin is, and how it can be conquered through salvation in Christ. Now in our twelfth grade World View and Apologetics course, we are putting it all together learning why we should care, why we should defend our faith, and that we have been building a skill set all along that will enable us to do that.

Creation. Fall. Redemption. “We didn’t even realize in 7th, 8th, 9th grades, studying Creation, Fall, Redemption across every subject, or even when we studied Church history and systematic theology, how it would all come together this year in apologetics,” says senior Hannah Turner.

The other seniors in the group all nodded in agreement when she said this, and the discussion turned to how since they were very young, they have been learning that everything has a beginning—a Creation, that a conflict always arises—a Fall, and that every story, whether it is fictional or true, every work of art, every piece of music, seeks to put it right—the Redemption. ECCS students are all very familiar with the term “meta-narrative.” The world meta-narrative is the greatest story of the universe—the creation and fall of man, and the redemptive power of the risen Christ, and that meta-narrative is repeated over and over throughout history and cultures.

Knowledge. Faith. Apologetics. Senior Bailey Vaughn said, “Apologetics is the bridge between faith and intellect,” says senior Bailey Vaughn, echoing our Apologetics teacher Mr. Keelan Adams. We all understand this. What Mr. Adams has taught us is that everything we know about the Bible is useless unless we also have faith, but that knowledge is essential to being able to defend the Gospel in a world that is ever increasingly hostile to it. Together, however, deep and growing knowledge and deep and growing faith, set the stage for us to all be Christian apologists no matter what careers we pursue.

We have, however, studied the works of several very important Christian apologists, such as C.S. Lewis, and most recently Nancy Pearcey. We are reading Pearcey’s book Total Truth right now in our Apologetics course, so we are extremely excited to announce that Mrs. Pearcey will be coming to ECCS on April 21.

Mrs. Pearcey studied Christian worldview under Frances Schaeffer at L’Abri Fellowship in Switzerland in the 1970’s.

She later collaborated with Chuck Colson on the important Christian work How Now Shall We Live. Other important works by Mrs. Pearcey are Saving Leonardo and her most recent book Finding Truth. She currently edits The Pearcey Report (www.pearceyreport.com) and is a scholar in residence and professor at Houston Baptist University. Mrs. Pearcey will be speaking to ECCS students on the morning of April 21, will spend time with students and teachers throughout the day, and will also give an evening lecture.

We are so excited to be hosting her and very grateful to Matthew Burford and his organization Tactical Faith (www. tacticalfaith.com) for making this wonderful opportunity possible for us and the entire community.

Grammar, Logic Rhetoric. Creation, Fall, Redemption.

Knowledge, Faith, Apologetics. We are grateful to ECCS for equipping us to live rich lives as we seek to follow and proclaim Christ.

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Around Town

Local Student Gets Published in National Journal

Bailey Vaughn, a senior at Evangel Classical Christian School in Alabaster, AL, has a new achievement she can add to her resume, and it’s one that until now has never been reached by a high school student. Bailey, daughter of Phillip and Valorie Vaughn of Alabaster, will have an adaptation of her senior thesis published in Christian Research Journal - a scholarly theological publication with an emphasis on apologetics across all disciplines. According to Melanie Cogdill, Managing Editor, the vast majority of their submissions are from writers who hold doctorates of philosophy, and until the editorial board accepted Vaughn’s submission, they had no idea she was a high school student. Once they did find out, their feedback was complimentary: “The topic is noncontroversial and timely, with superheroes and other sorts of heroes being ever more the craze, with no sign of letting up. I started reading it and was immediately impressed with her prose and evident knowledge on the topic (the opening reference to The Dream of the Rood - outstanding, and the image of the ten-year-old boy reading

“I always loved literature, and when we read the Iliad and Odyssey in 8th grade, I became interested in heroism for heroism sake.”

-Bailey Vaughn, ECCS Senior

the comic book under the sheet with a flashlight - very effective). When I read the whole thing I was even more impressed. How can this be a seventeen-year-old??

There’s hope for the future yet.” Another editor offered, “Wow! God bless her parents, this is high level stuff I wasn’t even aware of till after my BA.”

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Miss Vaughn’s journey to a thesis dealing with heroism began when she was in 8th grade: “I always loved literature, and when we read the Iliad and Odyssey in 8th grade, I became interested in heroism for heroism sake. In 9th grade, when we read Beowulf, I saw him as a link between pagan heroes and Christian heroes. Reading about Beowulf ’s journey made me think that if there is a character that can seemingly link multiple heroes together, then there is a person who links all of them together, and that person is Christ. The idea kept coming up in other literature classes. In 10th grade we read stories like Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and the Faerie Queene, which have heroes who are allegorical for Christ. The goal of heroism became to point to Christian truths and to the person of Christ Himself.

Then in 11th grade, when we began choosing topics for theses, in literature class we continued to discuss metanarratives in stories, something we had begun studying in 7th grade. I thought, ‘Why wouldn’t this notion of Christ as the ultimate hero function as a sort of metanarrative?’ I began researching that topic, and in my research I came across this passage in ‘Myth Became Fact’ from C.S. Lewis: ‘The heart of Christianity is a myth which is also fact. The old myth of the dying god, without ceasing to be myth, comes down from the heaven of legend and imagination to the earth of history.’

Working from this premise, I set out to argue that an exploration of select literary heroes would demonstrate

Congratulations Bailey Vaughn on this great accomplishment.

that all heroes embody the myth which only Christ made fact. In order to support that argument, I divided my thesis into three sections: I first had to establish that Christ is and always has been a hero in order to classify Him as a metanarrative for heroism. Then I had to demonstrate that heroism like Christ’s transcends time and culture.

And finally, I examined literary heroes who either parody or mirror the pattern set by Christ. With all of that accomplished, I could argue that Jesus can be established as a hub, of sorts, for all types of heroism.”

Vaughn said that one of the most challenging parts of supporting her argument had to do with the fact that we

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Around Town

have perverted the term hero and thrown it around so loosely in our society. In many cases, she says, heroism is confused with what is actually celebrity. In literature, this confusion is especially seen with characters who are anti-heroes. Many of their actions seem to be more villainous than heroic.

She asked herself where the line was drawn. Could a character be such a perversion of the ideal that he cannot be considered a hero anymore? Vaughn said that she finally realized that all people, even villains, can act heroically without actually being heroes. Once she reached this realization, the dis-

“I have learned that my faith is part of who I am and that it cannot be compromised. “

write a play about our lives. In the act about my future I wrote that I was working as an author for a Christian journal. Perhaps having the opportunity to be published in CRJ is the fulfillment of this dream. This process has also helped me understand that when we work with the primary goal of glorifying God, everything else will fall into place. When I first started thinking about submitting my thesis for publication, I thought that it would be too expressly Christian for most outlets. However, I have learned that my faith is part of who I am and that it cannot be compromised. I am very glad that I discovered that there are distinguished outlets like CRJ that specifically seek work written from a Christian worldview.”

Vaughn’s piece, “The Embodiment of Heroism Manifest in Christ,” will appear as a feature article in the May/ June issue of Christian Research Journal as the first ever piece written and submitted by a high school student.

She will be compensated for her work, and she will have this distinguished accomplishment with her always, perhaps one day having her piece cited by a future student who once imagined him- or herself as an author as part of a 7th grade assignment.

-Bailey Vaughn ECCS Senior Residential Beautification Award Winner tinction became clearer.

As reported in a previous edition of The Alabaster Connection, Vaughn tied with another student for first place in the oral presentation of the senior theses, a graduation requirement for Evangel Classical Christian School. Her rhetoric teacher knew that her work was outstanding and worthy of publication but had been having a difficult time finding an outlet for high school compositions that exceeded 1200 words. About that time, according to Vaughn’s teacher, an opportunity with Christian Research Journal presented itself through a contact she had on social media. It turned out that contact was the managing editor of CRJ, and once she heard a synopsis of Vaughn’s piece, she was interested in reading the entire thesis. She felt the piece would be a good fit as a feature literary apologetics piece. From there, Vaughn began editing her nearly 7000-word thesis to meet the 3500-word maximum and other requirements of the journal.

Concerning the publishing process, Vaughn said, “I remember when I was in 7th grade we had to 30 cityofalabaster.com

455 Heathersage Road

Paul and Marilyn Coman, who reside at 455 Heathersage Road are this month’s beautification winners. The Comans are well liked neighbors and enjoy their community. They take great pride in taking care of their home and yard.

It was with great delight that the Comans received this award. When Mrs. Coman was informed of their award she made sure to spend some extra time in the yard, just because the weather was nice.

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Marty Handlon, Mayor 664-6831 | handlon@cityofalabaster.com City Council

Sophie Martin, Ward 1 506-8961 | martin@cityofalabaster.com Bob Hicks, Ward 2 663-1801 | hicks@cityofalabaster.com Stacy Rakestraw, Ward 3 529-3326 | rakestraw@cityofalabaster.com Rick Walters, Ward 4 281-7394 | walters@cityofalabaster.com

Russell Bedsole, Ward 5 205-229-6021 | bedsole@cityofalabaster.com Scott Brakefield, President, Ward 6 685-0302 | brakefield@cityofalabaster.com Tommy Ryals, Ward 7 664-1301 | ryals@cityofalabaster.com

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