Alabaster Connection March 2017

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF ALABASTER

ALABASTER CONNECTION MARCH 2017

BRIAN COPES A PASSION FOR TEACHING HIS KIDS Makenzie McGuire • page 8 Feasts of St. Patrick’s Day • page 12

ALWAYS FITTING IN, JUST FOR BEING YOU.

SUMMER DAY CAMP YMCA of Greater Birmingham ymcabham.org/bestsummer

From the Mayor’s Desk...

Come on, Spring! We are ready for the beautiful blooms and longer days to enjoy the parks! But before we move on to spring sports, I must congratulate the Patriots on their championship in what many are saying was the best Super Bowl game they have ever seen. And, a BIG shout-out and congrats to our own hometown Patriot, Brandon King! We are so very proud of you, your hard work and perseverance to accomplish your dreams! You are Warrior Strong, and our Warrior Pride in the NFL! Keep on looking up & be blessed!

This month is the beginning of the busy season for our all our parks and our community. There will be plenty of Marty Handlon activity at all of our fields with the city’s youth sports proMayor, City of Alabaster grams, as well as travel ball tournaments on the weekends.

Members of our Parks & Recreation Department work hard to keep 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 of us enjoying all of it.

And, just in time for our busy season, our new Holiday Inn Express has finally opened. It will be a big help to all the folks coming to our city for the annual Alabama Junior College Softball Championship tournament, travel ball tournaments, and graduation festivities.

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 many activities planned and sponsored by our current Teen Council over the last year. This group has done an outstanding job this year, and the younger members really stepped up to the leadership plate to impress all of us. I hope it has been rewarding for them, and that they will return for another year of leadership and help new members get involved. Any teenager (grades 8th through 11th) interested should complete an application found on the city website, or call my office for more information at 664-6831.

February was a tough month for our community, as we mourned a great loss on February 10, 2017, when Diana Hussey went home to be with our Lord. Diana was a GREAT ambassador for our city and our children. She was a TRUE people person, a champion for any good cause, person, or animal she believed in, and the hands and feet of Christ, treating everyone she met with the same welcoming love and respect—whether you agreed or disagreed with her. I believe very few people in this community escaped experiencing her big smile, sincere encouragement, or zest for life, at some point. Her physical absence in our community will be felt in many ways by many people, and more so by those of us blessed by her friendship. Please keep her precious family in your thoughts and prayers, as they adjust to their daily life without Diana. We can honor her memory by trying to live by the example she set, showing love, respect, and commitment in our community.

Blessed beyond measure,

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 Councilwoman Kerri Pate Councilman Greg Farrell Editor Luke Camara, me2graphics, LLC Contributors Shana Camara Heather Leavell Lindsay Schluntz Lynn Barnett Megan Owens

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 ©2017 City of Alabaster Non-Emergency City Numbers Police 24-Hours 663-7401 Alabaster Water Board 663-6155 Fire Department 664-6818

cityofalabaster.com 3

COUNCIL COMMENTS

Scott Brakefield, Ward 6 City Council President

Greetings! I wanted to start my comments this month by giving a shout out to our THS Wrestling Team. Coach Shawn Weltzin has built our program into one of the predominant programs in the State, as well as the South. It’s crazy to think that a 3rd place finish in the 2017 AHSAA State Wrestling Championships would be considered a “so-so” year, but that is what the program has become. It’s all about “Blue Maps” for them. But it still was a great year with 3 State champions, Sam Latona, Chandler Akins and Gabe Hixenbaugh! Congrats guys!

Another positive for our community and our school system is Mr. Brian Copes. Mr. Copes has won numerous Teacher of the Year awards, and in March, he will get the opportunity to go to Dubai and be recognized as one of the top 50 teachers in the world! Amazing! What a great honor. Congrats Mr. Copes!

Lastly - it is spring sports time. THS will have athletes competing in Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Tennis, Track & Field, Golf, etc. I hope you have time to go watch and support them.

We will also be very busy in our parks with the smaller Warriors, so please find time to get to one of the parks and take in a ballgame or a match. You can even enjoy a walk down the Buck Creek Trail. With daylight savings time right around the corner, we will have plenty of sunshine to get out and enjoy!

Sophie Martin, Ward 1

The new Holiday Inn Express recently opened their doors for business. They are located behind the Promenade off Alabaster Boulevard. The construction process was lengthy but it has been worth the wait. Their parking lot is almost full on a nightly basis with travelers who have chosen to stop in Alabaster for relaxation, shopping, exceptional dining and quality places to stay.

With the Candlewood Suites located right next door, this gives our city increased availability and options for our visitors. Welcome Holiday Inn Express!

I’d like to thank Waste Pro, a solid waste removal and recycling company that serves Shelby County. Part of their mission is supporting the health and welfare of communities and the environment. This company truly demonstrates giving back to the community. Recently, they assisted the Jesus Works Ministry with the demolition of a dilapidated home that improved the overall living environment for an elderly woman and her neighbors in Ward 1. The structure 4 cityofalabaster.com

caught fire several years ago and what remained became the home of rodents, snakes and other pests. Because of Waste Pro’s hard work and generosity, this not only improved safety and enhanced the area, but it was a major long-term cost savings for both the resident and the taxpayers. I appreciate Waste Pro partnering with the Jesus Works ministry and making a major difference in our community.

The city council recently voted unanimously to reappoint Bobby Harris to the Alabaster Water Board. This will be Mr. Harris’ second term to serve as Director of the Water Board. His commitment and service to our community is truly appreciated. Congratulations, Bobby!

If you have any questions or ideas for Ward 1 or our city, please contact me at martin@cityofalabaster.com or call 205-506-8961.

Kindest regards, Sophie

Rick Ellis, Ward 2

As the weather continues to warm up and the flowers begin to bloom, it looks like the groundhog may have been wrong again this year, and spring may be here before we know it. With the arrival of spring comes the arrival of the spring sports in the city. The Parks and Rec Department will be wide open and the ballparks will be full with kids playing baseball, softball and soccer. Unfortunately, spring can also bring the threat of severe weather. Please be sure to have your weather radios ready to go in the event that we have inclement weather. Be prepared and be safe.

In February, I was honored to be invited to speak to the second graders at Creekview Elementary School’s career day. I would like to thank all of the 2nd graders, their teachers and the administration for allowing me to come and speak about being a city councilman and to tell them a little about our great city and how our city government works. I had a fantastic time getting to see some old friends and making some new ones while I was there.

If you have not, please check out the City website at www.cityofalabaster.com. Also, if you have a concern or an issue that needs to be addressed by the city, it can be reported by using the “report a concern” tab on the home page.

I hope everyone has a great spring break, safe travels and a Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Stacy Rakestraw, Ward 3 First, I would like to congratulate Brian Copes for being recognized with a Global Teacher prize as one of the top 50 teachers in the world. The Varkey Foundation received 20,000 nominations from 179 countries for this award. Thank you, Brian, for your dedication to the students of the

Alabaster City Schools and teaching them to help others around the world with the engineering knowledge and skills they are learning through your program.

Our community is mourning the sudden loss of Diana Hussey.

She was a friend to all she met, an encourager, and a cheerleader for our city, but most of all, she was a precious wife, mom of three boys, sister, daughter and a dear friend to many. We celebrate her life and can rejoice that she is with her Savior and is no longer suffering, but we miss her so much.

Mark your calendars - next month is the Alabaster Clean Sweep.

We are scheduling volunteer, litter pick-up groups from schools, organizations, businesses and churches. April 8th and 29th are the two Saturdays to choose from. Email me at rakestraw@cityofalabaster.com before the spaces fill up. Also, on April 22, we will have our annual, secure e-cycle and paper-shredding event at the Thompson Intermediate School beginning at 8 am.

I am so excited daylight savings time is around the corner and so is spring! Enjoy your spring break and have safe travels.

Greg Farrell, Ward 4

I would like to commend Brian Copes on his compassion in teaching not only our young adults in our city schools, but taking that compassion to other parts of the world. We are proud and appreciate his commitment to educating our young adults in the trade skills courses.

As the construction begins on the Thompson Road widening project from Hwy 119 to Warrior Drive, please use caution in the area during this process.

Recently the fire department regained possession of the first fire engine for the department. The department is raising money for the restoration on Engine 1, no money from the city is being used in the restoration. Please consider helping the fire department bring this piece of Alabaster history back to life.

Russell Bedsole, Ward 5

According to some of the most recent available statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor, only 25% of the U.S. population volunteers their time to serve in some capacity. That statistic is fascinating if you stop and think how much gets done by so few. Even more fascinating is how much more we could accomplish if more people got involved.

You may wonder why I’m using my time with you this month to write about volunteering. There are actually a few reasons, but here is

just one. The spring sports season is the busiest for our Parks and Rec Department, and this season we have experienced many challenges finding parents to volunteer their time to coach. Now I know being a little league coach doesn’t pay well and there aren’t many perks. Well, the honest truth is you don’t get paid anything and the perk is a free drink from the concession stand after each game!

For generations, fine men and women serving as volunteers have mentored boys and girls. We have so many youth that deserve this same opportunity in our city. I want to invite and encourage anyone who is physically able to become active and volunteer your time to serve our youth. There are so many opportunities and the true reward is making a difference in a young person’s life. Let me know your thoughts. Email me at bedsole@cityofalabaster.com

Kerri Pate, Ward 7

Thanks to each of you that have included me in some eye opening issues and ideas. I hope you all will continue to reach out to me & together we can get issues resolved & questions answered. A great tool for any concerns or complaints in the City is the “Report A Concern” option on our website. I have heard positive feedback when my neighbors and friends have used this and much appreciation to all departments for handling these issues in a timely manner.

I would also like to recognize Mr. John Ellison, founder of Alabaster Public Servants Foundation, he has partnered with Adopt-Mile program to help clean up Alabaster roads & bring awareness about littering. Our City does a great job and it is our duty as residents to help protect & take care of our beautiful City as well.

Many of you in my area may have noticed the new pavement in Windy Oaks, please continue to be patient with all of the new projects around the city, we will all benefit when they are complete.

This past month Alabaster lost an friend, a pillar in our community, a woman with a true servants heart for Alabaster. She was also my sweet friend. Mrs. Diana Hussey has touched many lives & in the words of her loving husband ,”everyone...smile at someone...hug someone...tell someone how beautiful they are, because that’s what the world needs more of.”

Once again our City has shown up big time with love, support & prayers. Please keep Greg, Tyler, Derek & Josh in your thoughts & prayers. Let’s continue to be a City with a compassionate heart. We will miss our full of life friend.

I am available most anytime, call me 205-965-8300 or email me pate@cityofalabaster.com. Also feel free to “like” my Facebook page Kerri Pate for updates & fun news about Alabaster.

Thank you all, Kerri

cityofalabaster.com 5

HAPPENINGS

BRIAN COPES

A PASSION FOR TEACHING HIS KIDS Brian Copes has a cold. “You’ll have to excuse me. I have the sniffles,” he shared. Copes, who heads up the pre-engineering program at Thompson High School (THS), would never let something like a cold keep him from his kids.

“Yeah, I guess I have always called them my kids - they’re my students but also my kids,” he shared.

Copes has been teaching at THS for four years now. Before that, he worked in the Shelby County School system. All told, Copes has been teaching for over 20 years. Copes joined Alabaster City Schools (ACS) system because he saw something he liked. “What motivated me was that ACS came and offered me the support - they wanted this program for their students and rolled out the red carpet. With the support of the administration, teachers can come in and make a profound impact,” he enthusiastically proclaimed.

THS Pre-Engineering Program In this day and age of core classes and mandated curriculum, what Copes does for the Alabaster City Schools is unique. “I guess if you look at this pre-engineering program right now, 6 cityofalabaster.com

you can almost say it is a world recognized and renown program. This isn’t a canned curriculum, this isn’t being taught in any other school in Alabama,” he exclaimed.

The four-year pre-engineering program builds so that the students graduate with real world knowledge.

“Career Tech is applied education. This is an outlet where kids can apply everything they learned in their core classes and understand its application, because, to me, their knowledge is only knowledge unless kids know how to apply it. A student who can apply their knowledge can come up with an idea and develop that idea. They will have the skill to do what they formulated in their head; those students are going to be more valuable then just idea students. My goal is that every student knows how to implement their ideas, and that will change the world,” he boldly declared.

Copes’ first year at THS, he had 60 students in his program. Now there are over 200 students. This increase in demand has prompted the Alabaster City Schools administration to assign another teacher to the program.

Students who complete the program will graduate with real world skills. They will build aquatic wheel chairs from conception phase to finished product. They will become certified in SOLIDWORKS CAD Software.

They will build a Basic Utility Vehicle (BUV) and compete in a collegiate level competition. And the students

“What motivated me was that ACS came and offered me the support they wanted this program for their students and rolled out the red carpet.

With the support of the administration, teachers can come in and make a profound impact.”

-Brian Copes THS Teacher

will have held an internship - past internships have been with NASA, UAB and various engineering and manufacturing firms.

Copes’ goal as a teacher is to see change. “It is important to me that the students have the ability to change their own world,” he shared.

Impact Copes is currently one of 50 teachers from around the world who are competing for a 1 Million dollar prize from the Global Teacher Prize. The Global Teacher Prize’s goal, according to their website, is to “reward an exceptional teacher who has made an outstanding contribution to their profession.” Copes has also been recognized with the 2015 Presidential Volunteer Service Award, 2014 Environmental Teacher of the Year, 2012 People Magazine Top Five Teachers in America and various other awards.

Copes has received these recognitions because he pushes his students to think outside themselves and their current situation. When he first started teaching in Shelby County, he was assigned to Chelsea Middle School. During his time there, he tasked his 8th grade

class to build and enter a Basic Utility Vehicle competition. It just so happened that the competition was for college programs, not middle school programs.

Copes tells how, when his team was announced during the morning, it was as Chelsea University. By lunch time, there were calling them Chelsea High School.

“When they raised the first place trophy, they called us Chelsea Middle School,” he exclaimed.

Under the direction of a 501c3 called SKY, Copes continues to spread his message of hands on education and applied knowledge. “We have created the Electric Car Challenge. The goal is to have a basic electric car kit given to various schools throughout the state and to see whose car goes the farthest in one hour. Barber Motor Sports donates track time each year. “When we started, it was with four schools in the Birmingham area. This past year, there were over 40 schools from four states and over 500 in attendance. “The goal is to have a team from each county compete,” he said. “We want to engage and excite students about learning.

They will build the kit and they will improve the kit.

They get hands on experience.”

This experience is key to making an impact. “We are hoping that when Chevy or Toyota are looking to build their next plant, they see the knowledgeable work force here in Alabama. It is important to train our students today for the jobs of tomorrow,” he said.

Future If Copes is awarded the 1 Million dollar prize, he is planning to expand his Sister School initiative. The Sister School program connects schools and students in developed countries with their counterparts in developing countries. Currently, he works with a sister school in Honduras. “Everything we do as teachers needs to be about making a difference in our kids, the students, and the world.”

Alabaster is proud to call Brian Copes one of our own.

HAPPENINGS

Signs of Great Opportunities Ahead Student Spotlight Makenzie McGuire Makenzie Rebecca McGuire is a junior at Thompson High School. She’s on track to graduate with honors, plays the saxophone in the marching band, and loves reading and horseback riding.

Makenzie is also deaf.

“Welcome to Holland…”

Chris and Sarah McGuire celebrated the birth of their beautiful firstborn baby girl on January 9, 2000. However, it was not until they took Makenzie to Children’s Hospital South for a routine hearing and speech evaluation in February of 2002, that they became aware of her hearing disability.

Dr. Woolley discovered that Makenzie’s hearing loss was caused by a recessive genetic syndrome known as Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct.

“Looking back now, there were all kinds of signs of the diagnosis, but at the time, we were in total shock and disbelief,” Sarah shared. “We were completely unprepared for the adjustment that the diagnosis would require.”

To illustrate their emotions at that time, Sarah recalled a story she’d read called, Welcome to Holland.

“It was as if we were planning a family trip to Italy. We’d memorized the maps of the country, 8 cityofalabaster.com

learned the language, studied up on the culture, the food, and all that would go into it, but when the day came and the plane landed, the pilot announced, ‘Welcome to Holland!’,” she paused. “Holland would still be an incredible experience with beautiful tulips and wooden shoes, but it would be very suddenly different from the spaghetti and Italian culture that we had previously planned for.”

Accessing A Whole New World On October 17, 2002, Makenzie became Dr. Audie Woolley’s 100th pediatric cochlear implant recipient at Children’s Hospital of Birmingham. During the surgery, Dr. Woolley discovered that Makenzie’s hearing loss was caused by a recessive genetic syndrome known as Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct, a malformation of the vestibular aqueduct between the cranial cavity and the inner ear that eventually caused total deafness in both ears.

Although the misconception is that the cochlear implants provide an immediate ‘cure’ for deafness, this isn’t the case. Years of rehabilitation are necessary, and even with the implants on, Makenzie still has moderate to severe hearing loss in both ears.

“When Makenzie was five, Chris and I decided to provide a second implant for her so that she’d have one for each ear. It was not covered by insurance, but now that Makenzie has been given the gift of binaural hearing, we are even more hopeful that she will achieve everything she desires in life!” Sarah enthused. “Makenzie will never have to live in a world of silence because of this amazing technology.”

Mainstream Opportunities In the years since her second implant, Makenzie has been able to be fully acclimate to the hearing world, and accomplish many things that some may not expect from a deaf person. For example, even though Chris and Sarah were informed that their daughter likely would not progress past the 4th grade reading level, she is currently

“I can play saxophone in the marching band and horseback ride and do what other people can do.”

-Makenzie McGuire succeeding in AP and Pre-AP classes at Thompson High School.

“I can play saxophone in the marching band and horseback ride and do what other people can do,” Makenzie said proudly. “And with FM accommodations, I can compete with Big Un (her horse) like anyone else.”

The FM system is a way for equestrian competition judges to call out commands in a special microphone that transmits directly to her implants. This same system is utilized by classroom teachers at THS. “The schools in Alabaster have been very helpful - more

so than most other school systems that I’ve tried to help other families in,” Sarah said.

Inspiring Educational Opportunities Makenzie has also played a key role in developing the culture of inclusivity and opportunity for those with hearing disabilities at THS. Last year, she initiated a successful petition that garnered over 1,500 signatures of parents, friends, teachers and community members who supported her idea of bringing American Sign Language to the school system as a foreign language option for students.

“When the ASL class learned how to sign songs this year, I thought it would be a good way to include special needs individuals in the community in the celebration of our national anthem at football games,” she said. “The band doesn’t play the words, but it’s a way to include more people and to show the community how beautiful signing is.”

Makenzie also volunteered to help a young girl with cerebral palsy at the Night to Shine Prom event for special needs children. “She was non-verbal, so she signed to me and I could communicate with her throughout the night.”

Aiming for the Future Her passion for education and advocacy is infectious, and her independence will reach new heights with her upcoming acquisition of a hearing service dog.

“I’ll be able to go to college and know that I won’t have to depend on other people to help me, or to let me know if there’s a fire alarm or doorbell or sirens. The dog will pick up something if I drop it and don’t hear it fall, or will let me know if someone has called my name,” she said.

The opportunities that the cochlear implant provided for Makenzie have truly shaped her goals for the future.

“Without this technology, I don’t think I could be able to pursue going to college to get a degree in Equine Science. That’s what I want to do – open up my own barn and offer therapeutic riding for people that I can communicate with through sign language.”

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HAPPENINGS

Feasts of St. Patrick’s Day

The celebration of St. Patrick’s Day has evolved since its origins in the early 17th century. What began as a religious feast day commemorating the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, has become an international festival in celebration of Irish culture, according to History.com.

Traditionally, celebrations included social gatherings, church services, Gaelic folk music and dancing. Modern celebrations frequently involve parades, wearing green and Irishthemed food.

You may be surprised to learn that many of the foods we associate with St. Patrick’s Day are not traditional Irish dishes, but rather have been influenced by the lifestyle of early Irish immigrants in the U.S. For example, corned beef and cabbage is a derivative of the more traditional dish - boiled bacon and cabbage. Irish immigrants were often too poor to afford bacon, so they used the cheaper beef brisket.

“Given that New York City was a melting pot for immigrants from around the world, rather than boil the beef, the Irish adopted cooking methods from other cultures,” says delish.com.

Instead of boiling the meat, the meal was influenced by an Eastern European cooking technique called brining, which uses cornsized salt crystals to cure the meat.

Though corned beef and cabbage may not be a common recipe in Ireland, it is a part of the rich culture and tradition of St. Patrick’s Day celebration here in the United States.

If you are Irish or Irish-at-heart, here are three simple recipes to make your St. Patrick’s Day a little more authentic this year. (Recipes from allrecipes.com).

Boxty (Irish Potato Pancake) Ingredients: • 1 ½ cups grated raw potatoes • 1 cup all-purpose flour • 1 cup mashed potatoes • 1 egg • 1 tablespoon skim milk • ¼ cup olive oil • salt and pepper to taste Directions: 1. Toss the grated potatoes with flour in a

12 cityofalabaster.com

Boxty (Irish Potato Pancake)

large bowl. Stir in mashed potatoes until combined.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and skim milk; mix into the potatoes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drop in the potato mixture, forming patties about 2 inches in diameter. Fry on both sides until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes per side.

4. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve warm.

Irish Soda Bread Ingredients: • 3 cups all-purpose flour

Irish Soda Bread

• 1 tablespoon baking powder • 1/3 cup white sugar • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1 egg, lightly beaten • 2 cups buttermilk • ¼ cup butter melted Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).

Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

2. Combine flour, baking powder, sugar, salt and baking soda. Blend egg and buttermilk together, and

add all at once to the flour mixture. Mix just until moistened. Stir in butter. Pour into prepared pan.

3. Bake for 65 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the bread comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.

4. Wrap in foil for several hours, or overnight, for best flavor.

Sausage Coddle (Casserole) Ingredients: • 1 pound pork sausage links • ½ pound smoked bacon, cubed • 2 onions, thinly sliced • 3 carrots, chopped • 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced • 1 teaspoon died parsley • 1 cup beef stock • 1 ½ cups Irish stout beer • ½ cup heavy cream • salt and pepper to taste Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).

2. Place the sausages and bacon into a large skillet over medium heat, and cook until the sausages are browned on both sides, about 10 minutes. Slice the sausages into large chunks, and set the sausage and bacon aside.

Sausage Coddle (Casserole)

3. Place a layer of 1/3 of the onions in a 9x13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of 1/3 of the carrots and sliced potatoes. Arrange 1/3 of sausage and bacon in a layer over the potatoes; sprinkle with salt, pepper, and parsley. Repeat layers twice more.

4. Warm the beef stock in a saucepan over medium heat, and pour in the stout beer and cream. Pour the sauce over the casserole, and let the sauce fill in the spaces in the layers.

5. Bake in the preheated oven until the potatoes and vegetables are tender, about 1 1/2 hours.

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CALENDAR

COMMUNITY

MARCH 7th Water Board 7 p.m.

8th Court Plea Dockets 9 a.m. & 2 p.m.

13th School Board 6 p.m.

13th Alabaster City Council 7 p.m.

14th Housing and Abatement Board 5 p.m.

20th Board of Zoning Adjustments 6:30 p.m.

22nd Court Plea Dockets 9 a.m. & 2 p.m.

27th Alabaster City Council 7 p.m.

28th 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: 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.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY QUARTERLY MEETING April 10, 6:00 p.m.

Held in the meeting room at the library. All are welcome to attend.

ABC & DS OF MEDICARE March 13, 1 p.m.

Karen Haiflich of the Medicare Information Source will help you navigate through the process of Medicare. Learn about filing, benefits, and any other questions you might have. Program takes place in the meeting room.

TAI CHI FOR HEALTH Wednesdays 1:00 pm STARTING March 15th Join us as local instructor Rachel Hickman teaches a 7-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.

LIBRARY BOOK GROUP March 16, 7 pm Join us in our discussion of A Man Called Ove by Fredrik

The Friends of the Albert L. Scott Library are announcing our

Spring

Book Sale e!

April 7-9

l

e Sa & Bak

Friday 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

FREE AARP TAX HELP FOR SENIORS February through mid-April Available by appointment on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the meeting room. Call or come by the Albert L. Scott Library to sign up. 664-6822.

Members Only Preview Sale. Join at door for as little as $10. Be ahead of the crowd & enjoy first choice!

ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES Call or come by to sign up. 664-6822.

March 6 @ 10 am – Computer Basics March 18 @ 10 am – Microsoft Excel Crash Course March 27 @ 10 am – Microsoft Word Part 1

There will be raffle prizes and baked goodies for sale as well. Sign up sheets to volunteer for the sale or to donate to the bake sale will be available at the library beginning Friday, March 24th, 2017. Call Joan Rickles at (205) 620-1224 for more information.

Saturday Sale 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

No limit – buy all you want. We’ll help you carry them to your car!

Sunday 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Fill-A-Bag. We’ll give you a bag to fill. For only $6 you get everything you can pack into it.

Teachers and student teachers that show work/school identification can purchase books 3 for $1.00. This is for those looking to replenish or build their class libraries only please.

albert l. Scott library 16 cityofalabaster.com

100 Ninth Street NW | Alabaster, AL 205-664-6822

Backman. A curmudgeon hides a terrible personal loss beneath a cranky and short-tempered exterior while clashing with new neighbors, a boisterous family whose chattiness and habits lead to unexpected friendship. Program takes place in the meeting room.

CAKE & CULTURE March 19, 2 pm Birmingham’s own world traveler, writer, and photographer, Niki Sepsas, presents Leprechauns, Shamrocks, and ‘Danny Boy’ – Images of the Emerald Isle. From the picture-postcard villages and rolling fields of the east to the stunning sea cliffs on the island’s west coast, it’s easy to see why some 81 million people around the world hold so dear their heritage from a land that claims 40 shades of green.

LIBRARY BOARD MEETING March 28, 6 pm

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 and Tales for all in the Meeting Room for all ages.

Fridays 10:30 a.m.

Toddler Tales for 2 and 3 year olds in the Meeting Room.

Miss Jennie’s Story Time Themes: Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss Pete the Cat St. Patrick’s Day and More Spring Is Here/Easter Time Funny Animal Stories

YA THROWBACK THURSDAY: WHAT DO YOU KNOW…?

March 16, 4:15 pm Tweens and teens can test their knowledge when Charity Battles of Alabama 4-H challenges them during a St. Patrick’s Day trivia smack down. Come have fun snacking and yacking with friends. Kids 11 to 18 years old can sign up. Meets in the meeting room.

AMERICAN GIRLS CLUB March 17, 4 pm Girls age 7 and older can come with or without a doll to learn about Kit and her 1934 world. Please sign up and join us in the meeting room.

PETE THE CAT BOOK CLUB March 21, 6 pm Kids 5 years old and older can sign up for feline fun and activities. Kids age 6 and younger must be with an adult. Meets in the meeting room.

SPRING BREAK STORY TIME March 29, 10:15 am Time to spring into fun stories, songs, and more with Miss Jennie! The fun is in the meeting room.

CREEK VIEW ELEMENTARY KINDERGARTEN TOUR & SNACK April 26th, 8:30 a.m.

Upcoming Kindergarten students & parents join us for our Kindergarten Tour & Snack day at 8:30 a.m. Then stay for Roger Day (a children’s musician who sings fun songs) at 9:00 a.m. Our school will provide a fun time, a snack, resources to help parents prepare their child for Kindergarten and a fun concert by Roger Day!

MARCH PROGRAMS LEGO LEAGUE March 7, 6 pm-6:45 pm Kids of all ages can come play with bricks of all sizes. The fun is in the meeting room. Kids age 6 and younger must be with an adult.

AN HOUR WITH JAMES SPANN March 13, 10 am-11 am Everyone is invited to this special Homeschool Happening program where we’ll meet TV weatherman James Spann of ABC 33/40. Learn about spring weather hazards, safety, and more.

Come as a James Spann look alike if you want! Please sign up.

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CALENDAR

PARKS AND REC

The Parks and Recreation Office is located inside the Depot at 100 Depot Street, Alabaster. Office hours are Mon.-Fri. from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. If you would like more information, call 205-664-6840 or visit www. alabasterparks.org.

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 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 17.

Picture Day is scheduled for March 18. Be sure to attend at least one Soccer game this season to show your support for our local youth even if you don’t have anyone playing. It’s free!

YOUTH BASEBALL/GIRL’S SOFTBALL Parade of Teams will occur on March 17 at Veterans Park. o 6:00 pm – Announcement of teams o 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 in 2015 with the Police winning. Last year’s game was rained out so the Firemen have had 2 years to prepare for possible victory. 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 18. Picture Day is scheduled for April 8.

Be sure to come out and show your support of our

18 cityofalabaster.com

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 for purchasing 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.

NEW HOURS! Senior Center hours have been extended. We are now open Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Membership is open to anyone age 55 and older living in Shelby County.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! THE ARK ENCOUNTER FALL TRIP Louisville, Kentucky - September 25-28, 2017 We will be traveling on a motor coach to the beautiful Blue Grass State! We will experience the Ark Encounter, featuring a full size Noah’s Ark, built according to the dimensions given in the Bible. We will also visit the Kentucky Derby Museum to experience a guided tour of Churchill Downs Racetrack. You don’t have to be a baseball fan to be excited about visiting the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory. We will experience history-in-the making as we stroll through the actual factory where world-famous Louisville Slugger bats are created. Cost of the trip: Double occupancy $499/person and single occupancy $609/person. You must pay a $100 deposit in order to reserve your spot. We already have ½ the seats reserved!

AARP-SMART DRIVER CLASS Tuesday, March 7, 9am-3:30pm 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 nonmember.

Bring your own lunch. Make checks payable to AARP. You will need to stop by the Senior Center and reserve your spot.

PAPER CRAFT CLASS Monday, March 13, 12-3pm Join us for an ongoing class to learn the basics of paper crafting. Whether you want to make your own handmade cards or create beautiful scrapbooks to preserve family memories, this class is for you. In each class, you will make examples of 1-2 new techniques which can be used to make your own personalized creations during the class. Join us for fun and creativity as well as discovering your hidden talents. Cost: $5/class.

NEW EVENING CLASS FERMENTED FOODS: THE GUT BRAIN CONNECTION Monday, March 20, 6-7:30pm There is so much documentation connecting the health of our Gut to our overall health. We will be learning what this connection is, what can be fermented and how to make our own fermented foods to improve our gut health. This is a hands-on class. You will be going home with your own fermented food.

Cost is $12/person. Stop by the senior center to sign up or you can mail your payment in, but payment must be received 5 working days prior to class. Space is limited.

INTRODUCTORY GENEALOGY CLASS March 21, 12:00-12:30pm How to begin searching for your family genealogy, what tools you can use and how the internet help. Stop by or call to sign up for this class.

DAY TRIP TO IKEA IN ATLANTA Wednesday, March 29 6:15am-6pm We will travel to Atlanta to spend the day shopping and eating in the cafe at IKEA. Bring $8-10 for lunch. Note: there is a good bit of walking on this trip. We will be traveling on one of our city buses. Cost is $12 to reserve your spot.

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.

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.

ZUMBA GOLD Wednesdays, 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Relatively high intensity, low-impact fitness class featuring Latin and World rhythms and the same party favor as regular Zumba.

A great cardio workout that is fun! 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.

AGELESS ADVENTURES IN MOVEMENT Thursdays, 1:00-2:30 p.m.

As we explore some issues of aging and learn the basics of creative movement. We’ll learn to use the elements of dance to tell our stories and explore the concept of the relationship between dance and the well-being of mind, body and spirit.

No prior dance experience is necessary. We’ll build our dance vocabulary as we go! This is an ongoing class $2/class.

TEMPO! Fridays, 10 a.m.

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. All levels are welcome. Space is limited. $2/class.

UPCOMING BOOK CLUB Monday, March 27, 9:30am We will be meeting the 4th Monday to discuss the book and introduce a new book. Sign up at the senior center.

TECHNOLOGY CLASS Tuesday, March 28, 9:30-11am Come learn more about how to safely use and navigate today’s technology - secure passwords, online shopping, scams, how to use different apps, Dropbox and more. You do not need your computer - this is an informational class and very interactive.

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.

Cost is $2/class.

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City Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged)

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

Monday, January 9th, 2017 at 7 pm MAYOR COMMENTS / PROCLAMATIONS:

Mayor Handlon made the following appointments to the Alabaster Housing Abatement Board: Marie Jordan & Jason Howanitz

AGENDA ITEMS

*Public Hearing on these items

1. Resolution 010917 Alabaster / Shelby County Multi-Jurisdictional, Multi Hazard Mitigation Plan Council Member Martin introduced in the form of a Motion, Resolution 010917, adopting Shelby County’s MultiJurisdictional, Multi-Hazard Plan. Such a plan is required as a condition of future grant funding for mitigation projects. Council Member Ellis seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 2. Resolution 010917-A Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA Appointment) Council Member Bedsole made recommendation to Council to make the following appointments to the Board of Zoning Adjustment, with Council Member Rakestraw seconding. Wade Walker – Place 4, Tommy Ryals – Place 5. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 3. Resolution 010917-B City Youth Sports – City Employees Discount Council Member Ellis introduced Resolution 010917-B allowing for City of Alabaster Employees to receive a 50% discount for registration fees for City Youth Sports.

Council Member Ellis made a motion to approve. Council Member Pate seconded.

20 cityofalabaster.com

With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a roll call vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously

Monday, January 23, 2017 at 7:00 pm.

1. Resolution 012317 Patron Services Librarian Position – Name / Grade Change Council Member Ellis introduced and made a motion to approve Resolution 012317, reclassifying the Patron Services Librarian Position to Patron Services Manager, changing the grade from 18 to 15. Council Member Rakestraw seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 2. Resolution 012317-A Grant 10 Ft. Utility Easement to Alagasco at Hwy 264 and Warrior Park Parking Lot Council Member Farrell introduced and made a motion to approve Resolution 012317-A, granting a 10 Ft. Easement to Alagasco at Hwy 264 and Warrior Park Parking Lot for relocation of service line. Council Member Pate seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 3. Resolution 012317-B CivicPlus HR Agreement Council Member Martin introduced and made a motion to approve Resolution 012317-B, amending the professional services agreement with CivicPlus to add a statement of work for online Human Resources Services. Council Member Farrell seconded. Council President called for a roll call vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 4. Resolution 012317-C Reject Bid – Environmental Services Vehicle (F250) Council Member Bedsole introduced and made a motion to approve Resolution 012317-C, rejecting sole bid received from Ernest McCarty Ford for the amount of $50,444.06, as the sole bid received exceeded the scope and the specifications of the request for bid and had a price higher than state bid list. Council Member Martin seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a roll call vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously

Walk-Ins Welcome!

5. Council set a public hearing for February 27, 2017 amending various sections of the Sign Ordinance.

6. Motion was made by Councilwoman Martin, to go into executive session to discuss preliminary negotiations involving matters of trade or commerce in which the governmental body is in competition with private individuals or entities or other governmental bodies in Alabama.

Motions seconded by Councilman Bedsole. The Mayor, with personal knowledge that the issues to be discussed would be detrimental to competitive positions of the City, confirmed their Motion for Executive Session. The roll call vote was unanimous to go into executive session. The Council President announced that they would not return for further business. The Executive Session began at 7:18 PM and ended at 8:03PM. Council Member Rakestraw made a motion to adjourn. Council Member Farrell seconded. All were in favor and said meeting

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Find Essential Solutions to Your Tax Questions Business Spotlight

Essential Solutions Find Essential Solutions to Your Tax Questions They say two things are certain in life – death and taxes. But what if you aren’t so certain about the latter? Where can you turn with your questions?

Cris Nelson, Enrolled Agent at Essential Solutions, LLC, may have the answers you need!

Enrolled Agents are the only federally licensed tax practitioners who specialize in taxation and who also have unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS. They’re generally known as ‘America’s Tax Experts.’

“As an Enrolled Agent (EA), I stay up to date on the ever-changing complicated tax code,” Cris explained.

“The value of working with an EA is that clients know when they walk in the door, we know what we are doing and if they have a complex situation, we have the authority to represent them before the IRS to get their situation resolved.”

The number of hours that EAs put in to maintain their license often sets them apart from the sea of tax preparers who prepare returns with little educational experience in the tax laws.

“We take our role as a taxpayer advocate seriously in making sure that the taxpayer is treated fairly by the IRS, and as an advocate for the IRS in taxpayer compliance,” she said confidently.

A History of Service in Shelby County Before settling in Alabaster over 10 year ago, Cris served a variety of other communities in Shelby County, including Pelham and Helena. She previously served as a City Council representative for the City of Helena. “So I appreciate what the Alabaster City representatives have done to keep a balance in growth for commercial and residential areas over the years.”

Apart from her accounting practice, she also owns commercial property, which is what brought her to Alabaster.

“I purchased my current office (in Alabaster) 12 years or so ago, and intended to rent it out as investment property. But every time I showed it, I thought it would be perfect for me, so I decided to become my own renter!” she said with a smile. “We love being in this city because Alabaster residents support Alabaster businesses.”

Building Relationships on Trust During this time of year, people think mainly of income taxes, but Essential Solutions, LLC also

22 cityofalabaster.com

focuses on small business accounting. Cris shared that in this industry, success is not completely based simply on how well one can add or advise. Rather, it’s based on solid relationships built on trust – one individual at a time.

“Our clients see us not just as another accounting firm, but as a dedicated extension to their financial team,” she said thoughtfully. “We are committed to providing a complete range of professional tax and accounting services, at affordable fees.”

To learn more about the services that Essential Solutions, LLC provides, visit www.essential-solutions.biz. To schedule an appointment, call the Essential Solutions, LLC office at 205-663-8686 to speak with Debbie or Joni. Be sure to bring all tax papers for 2016 and a copy of your 2015 tax return.

ESSENTIAL SOLUTIONS, LLC’S TOP TAX TOPICS FOR 2017: The “Unaffordable” Affordable Care Act “One of the biggest issues facing clients this year is healthcare – or the lack thereof – and the associated penalties. If they have insurance provided by their employer, they should be safe.

However, if they have insurance through the exchange and get a subsidy, or they have no insurance at all, the penalties are unfair and difficult for us to explain.”

Tax Identity Theft This has been a multi-billion-dollar tax problem for the past several years. However, the IRS is trying to get their arms around it to help keep the taxpayers’ information safe. This means that there are additional safeguards in filing that we now need to do. Refunds have also slowed down in order to verify the suspicious returns.

Cash Payments For self-employed individuals, cash payments are equally as taxable as payments made to you by check. It’s very common for a client to come in and only give us the income deposited to the bank or issued by a 1099. However, the IRS is starting to watch this carefully and creating audits to look for that missing money.

Heather Mishea Photography Citizen Spotlight Heather Kennemer

Heather Kennemer, of Heather Mishea Photography, has a knack for seeing the best in people. Her bright, spunky personality is infused into her work and she loves to inspire confidence in the people she photographs.

Passion for Photography “When I see someone and take their picture, I want them to see how they look to me. It’s more than just skin deep. I want to see people the way God sees them.

If you look at them that way, you’re seeing who they really are. That’s what I’m passionate about,” said Kennemer with excitement.

“I want to take more pictures of ‘tweens’ in 2017 be-

“I want to see people the way God sees them. If you look at them that way, you’re seeing who they really are. That’s what I’m passionate about.”

-Heather Kennemer cause it’s a hard age,” she said. Kennemer plans to offer sessions that would encourage younger students to talk about who they are and discover what they have going for them. She plans to incorporate messages from family and friends to encourage the student.

“Not only will the student feel pretty at this weird, funky age, but they will also know the people around them love them. You can change the way someone thinks about themselves and build their confidence.”

Kennemer loves taking pictures outside and finding new places to shoot. Her favorite part about photography is “colors. All the colors!” Heather finds beauty everywhere – colorful doors, historic buildings, even “cool-looking dumpsters.”

“I do senior portraits for a lot of guys and they think it’s going to be horrible, but then we have a legit adventure. It’s fun to go look for locations and explore if someone trusts you to not have a plan. The stuff you find is so cool,” Kennemer said.

Family Focused “I picked my kids,” Kennemer stated. An Auburn graduate, Kennemer used to work in the advertising business. “My major was mass communication with a minor in business and art. I wanted to be in advertising making commercials, that was my dream job, but you can’t have mommy life and advertising life. I’m a Christian, so it’s God first, then family, and then work.”

Kennemer started doing photography full time in 2008 when her youngest son was born. Now, as the mother of four boys, Kennemer says you couldn’t pay her enough to miss their important events. “I’m not going to miss time with my family to schedule work.”

People Make a Community Owning a photography business has given Kennemer the freedom to invest in her family and her community. “People are always at my house – my sons’ friends, everyone. We have an open door. People make a community, houses don’t matter, none of the other stuff matters,” Kennemer said thoughtfully.

Heather and her family have lived in Alabaster since 1999. “I love the people of Alabaster, it’s an awesome community. There’s a good group of mamas – everyone encourages each other. It’s small enough that my kids can run around – almost like when I was a kid – and have fun,” she related. “People care about each other here.”

Employee Spotlight

Chris Curtis, Senior Court Clerk Employee Chris Curtis, senior court clerk, loves his job.

A lot. “It is something I really, really fell in love with and I really, really enjoy it! Learning the laws and stuff like that, it really just grabbed my head,” he said. He started working with the city about four years ago, starting off as a temporary employee helping to pack up the old files from the former court building for the move to the new building. Once they moved, he also helped

“Greatest bunch of people I have ever worked with!

They all have the biggest hearts, if anything happens with anyone they all come together and bend over backwards to lend a hand. They are just the best people to work for.“

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with the setup of their new filing system.

Curtis never was trained in the court system.

Before starting his career with the Alabaster Municipal Court, he had no experience with courts or the law. “You just learn as you go and by watching the other clerks,” he said. His goal is to become the first male magistrate Alabaster has ever had.

His daily workload consists of preparing for the next court date. “Basically, it is just always getting ready for the next court date or trial date - pulling the docket for that. Files are constantly moved. Answering the phones, that is constant.

We deal with other municipal courts, asking for information about certain cases or profiles. FBI information requests, we send out a lot of that,” he shared.

On court days, it is all hands on deck for the Alabaster courts. Curtis’ job on court days is to always be prepared to lend a hand. “I am everyone’s right hand man on court dates, which keeps me going,” he exclaimed. To relieve some

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of the tension, Curtis and the judge will have a tie war.

“A tie war is when we see who has the better tie, but being the judge, he usually wins,” he said with a laugh.

Court ends when the docket, or list of cases for the day, are completed. “On average, we see about 230 cases on a court day, and we do that twice a month. It is common for us to get out around 7 or 7:30 p.m. but it isn’t uncommon for us to get out past 8 p.m.” explain Curtis.

Curtis knows that when people come to court, it is a bad day for them. “You see people and they think it is the end of the world. I just try to reassure them that it isn’t. There is light at the end of the tunnel. If you look at it as a bridge, then you will get through it,” he said.

For Curtis, the best part of the job is his co-workers.

“Greatest bunch of people I have ever worked with!

They all have the biggest hearts, if anything happens with anyone they all come together and bend over backwards to lend a hand. They are just the best people to work for,” he beamed.

When Curtis is not at work, he is driving his convertible to Pensacola, Florida to see his dad. “We grill out on the weekends, and just enjoy the sun, relaxing,” he shared. As a self proclaimed documentary nut, he has a checklist of films he is watching.

Alabaster is blessed to have public servants such as Curtis, whose dedication to a job well done does not go unnoticed.

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AROUND TOWN

SafeShelby Counseling “SANE is an immediate - Serving Survivors of response. It’s a safe place Sexual Assault Alabaster Helps for someone to come Erica Barron serves as a sexual assault counselor with SafeShelby Sexual Assault Services, a wing of the Shelby County SafeHouse program. after an assault has taken In this role, she provides crisis counseling, support and assessment of client needs, and place. But when they come response to events directly related to the sexual assault of an individual. to me, they’re ready for the Within the first two weeks of SafeShelby’s opening on December 1, 2016, Erica’s client list healing process to begin.“ tripled! However, most of the clients that Erica sees have not come to her directly from the organization’s Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners’ (SANE) facility.

“SANE is an immediate response. It’s a safe place for someone to come after an assault has taken place. But when they come to me, they’re ready for the healing process to begin,” she explained.

Ready When You Are Erica went on to share that during the first year after an assault, individuals typically go through several stages of processing where they often avoid emotionally confronting the assault.

Instead, they want to try to get their life back to what it was before it happened… back to ‘normal.’

“I think I’m seeing more people coming in to my office from the community, because it’s usually not until 6 months to a year after the trauma of the assault that they actually start to realize, ‘This has really affected me,’ and they’re ready for healing to begin.”

Discovering in A New Normal While every client is different, the process of counseling after a sexual assault is very similar: “It begins with addressing the trauma, accepting that it happened and discovering what that means about their life going forward,” Erica articulated. “We validate who they are, and knowing that they did not cause any of it, we work together to get rid of self-blame and shame and figure out what their new normal is.”

Erica explained the reality that trauma is a literal injury to the brain – like breaking a bone – and no one can go back to how it was before.

Through counseling, individuals discover there may be things after the trauma that trigger different fears and anxieties. They learn

26 cityofalabaster.com

-Erica Barron Safe Shelby Counseling how their body reacts and what their emotions do, and how to implement the necessary coping skills.

“For example – if the assault was caused by an older man – in your previous ‘normal,’ you could be in a store and an older man could ask you a question, and you would have no problem with it. However, after the trauma, older men could be a trigger for you. So now you have to learn how to live in a world with older men,” she explained.

Serving the Community The counseling services available through SafeShelby Sexual Assault Services are provided at no charge to the individual. Rather, it is funded through a grant from The Alabama Coalition Against Rape.

“Often, when clients see a private practice therapist for a trauma, they may only receive services for a short time before insurance no longer covers it or they can no longer afford it. However, the process of fully working through a trauma typically takes six months to a year! For those who have experienced multiple traumas (known as complex trauma), it may take even longer. So, this means that many people never got the healing that they’ve needed,” Erica shared. “So, after serving here, I don’t know that I could ever work somewhere that charges, because I don’t’ want to have to stop serving someone until they’re ready.”

Support for Loved Ones Support groups and free counseling are also available to secondary trauma victims.

“In addition to community outreach, awareness and case management, we also provide counseling for families, individuals and groups, support groups, and

workshops for friends and families of survivors so that if someone discloses to you then you know how to respond to that,� she explained.

If you or someone you know is in need of counseling, please call (205-419-0634) for a safe phone screening and to schedule an appointment.

24-Hour Crisis Line: (205) 669-7233 (SAFE) www.safehouse.org SafeShelby Sexual Assault Services Staff:

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SANE Clinical Coordinator: April Brasher 205-267-1606 aprilb@safehouse.org Sexual Assault Counselor: Erica Barron 205-419-0634 ericab@safehouse.org Program Manager: LeAnne Knight 205-616-7943(Cell) leannek@safehouse.org Community Services Director: Dotti Bailey 205-664-4850 dottib@safehouse.org

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The Branch At Mission Hills 1669 Mission Hills Road Alabaster, AL 35007 205-358-8680 www.thebranchatmissionhills.com

Friday, April 14, 2017 - 7:00 PM Saturday, April 15, 2017- 7:00 PM Sunday, April 16, 2017 - 10:30 AM

AROUND TOWN

RIBBON CUTTING STATE FARM AGENT WESLEY GUY

RIBBON CUTTING SASSY SHOPPER BOUTIQUE

Congratulations to State Farm Agent Wesley Guy! The grand opening of the office was January 1, 2017. Guy worked for State Farm as an agent team member for three years in Auburn before he and his wife, Marlee, relocated to the Alabaster area this past November. The office is open from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, and on evenings and weekends by appointment. You can contact the office by phone at (205) 663-4666 or for more information, visit www.wesleyguy.com.

The Sassy Shopper Boutique carries clothes for the busy mom and woman on the run who wants to look as great as she really is! “’Sassy’ describes a flirty, self-confident, lovable woman, who is also elegant, classy & chic,” explained owner, Jennifer Rollo. You can reserve your favorite fashionable pieces via the private Facebook page to pick up in store (www. facebook.com/shopthesassyshopper), or shop the boutique during store hours (Tuesday-Friday 1-6pm, Saturday 10am2pm, CLOSED Sunday & Monday). Located at 1614 Kent Dairy Road - Alabaster.

éCO CREDIT UNION OPEN HOUSE AND RIBBON CUTTING

ēCO Credit Union recently hosted an Open House and Ribbon Cutting for its new Shelby County location. The Alabaster Branch is a full-service location, offering lobby and drive-thru service. “We have a very faithful membership in Shelby County, and we are excited to continue to serve them at this new branch,” said Joey Hand, ēCO CEO. “With a prominent location, off of Highway 119, we also hope to attract new members who will take advantage of our great products and services.” The team at the Alabaster Branch is excited to provide exceptional member service at this new location. The new branch is located at 791 Fourth Place Southwest.

BEAUTIFICATION AWARD WINNER

Donald and Kim Huey 1020 8th Avenue SW Mr. and Mrs Huey are this month’s beautification award winners. Their home features a well manicured lawn, neatly trimmed hedges and a few light touches of ornamentation at the entrance way. The Huey’s home certainly shows their dedication and attention to detail that can make every home shine.

30 cityofalabaster.com

CITY OF ALABASTER 1953 Municipal Way Alabaster, AL 35007 www.cityofalabaster.com 664-6800

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

Marty Handlon, Mayor 205-664-6831 | handlon@cityofalabaster.com Greg Farrell, Ward 4 City Council 205-903-2308 | farrell@cityofalabaster.com Sophie Martin, Ward 1 205-506-8961 | martin@cityofalabaster.com Rick Ellis, Ward 2 205-903-4917 | ellis@cityofalabaster.com Stacy Rakestraw, Ward 3 205-529-3326 | rakestraw@cityofalabaster.com

Russell Bedsole, Ward 5 205-229-6021 | bedsole@cityofalabaster.com Scott Brakefield, President, Ward 6 205-685-0302 | brakefield@cityofalabaster.com Kerri Pate, Ward 7 205-965-8300 | pate@cityofalabaster.com

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