Alabaster Connection March 2019 by me2graphicsllc

ALABASTER

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

PARENTS: NEVER STOP LEARNING!

DOING WHAT IT TAKES TO PROTECT OUR CHILDREN FROM SUBSTANCE ABUSE pg. 10 AL PALS SPRING CLEAN UP

ALABASTER SPRING SPORTS UPDATE

WARRIOR EXPRESS: ONE STOP SHOP

pg. 9

pg. 12

pg. 16

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

We welcome your comments & suggestions. Call 447-2214 or email luke@me2graphics.com

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We know Spring is just around the corner as we roll into March! And, we need plenty of sunshine to dry up the effects of a very soggy winter. Fat Tuesday is March 5th and the 2019 Legislative Session begins as well. This year promises to be full of impactful legislation. Good luck to our local delegation—you and the rest of the State Legislature will Marty Handlon, be in our prayers. Since taking office, I have tried to use newsletter comments to bring Mayor City of Alabaster community awareness, and to educate residents on various aspects of the day to day operations of our city. I am proud to say City leadership and city staff have been working diligently to iron out the logistical details of a junk and rubbish service; and, Council action should take place this month. We believe we have reached a good balance in addressing the MS4 and Landfill concerns, while still providing a valuable service, and more than twice per year. We will be communicating the final details in several different methods, to reach as many as possible—much like the beginning of our own garbage service. As always, we are happy to answer any questions you may have at City Hall. New applications are being accepted this month for the 2019-20 Teen Council. This group of young leaders plan and execute many activities throughout their term—mostly during the summer. They continue to amaze me with their commitment and dedication to serving their peers. Interested Teenagers (grades 8th through 11th) should complete an application found on the city website, or call my office for more information at 664-6831. With this year’s high school graduation, we are losing the largest number of veteran teen leaders yet! As I have watched them grow and mature, I know they will step into the next phase of their journey more confident and more prepared to serve in leadership roles wherever they go. Some have been serving since their freshman year, so I know it has been rewarding for them. I hope our other veterans will return for another year of leadership and help our new members get involved. They are even participating in a panel discussion at the upcoming Parent University, on March 7th! Be sure to check out the article about Alabaster's For Tomorrow prevention team, and consider being part of our effort. Last, but not least, I want to congratulate our Mat Warriors for winning Thompson High School’s seventh State Wrestling Championship!! The Dynasty continues, and we are so proud of and for them in their great accomplishment. This program continues to be #WarriorStrong and I will be honoring them at the March 4th City Council Meeting. It is a GREAT day to be a Warrior! Blessings,

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

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

FEATURES

6 Spring Has Sprung 9 AL PALS 10 Parent University 12 Sports Update

SPOTLIGHTS

14 Alabaster Help 16 Business Spotlight 18 Citizen Spotlight 20 Employee Spotlight

COUNCIL COMMENTS

Scott Brakefield

Ward 6 | City Council President Greetings! Firstly, I would like to send a huge congratulations out the Thompson High School Wrestling team. It is simply amazing the results this program has gotten over the past 10 years. The word “Dynasty” isn’t thrown around very often in athletics. But this program has definitely become a dynasty. Congratulations to all the wrestlers, their coaches and to their parents for all the hard work and time you have invested over the years. Recently, you may have read about Alabaster City Schools releasing their amended Facility Usage Policy. Alabaster City Schools has been a great partner, and with this amended policy, they will continue to make sure children from our City will be a priority when reserving facilities. I know our Parks and Rec Department is extremely grateful for access to great facilities. I do not believe we could offer a youth basketball program without the help of ACS. Speaking of which, Spring sports are getting going all around our City. I always like to encourage everyone to get out and enjoy our parks as the weather begins to turn warmer. It is also a great time to catch a youth baseball, softball or soccer game. Please be on the lookout for news regarding our new junk and rubbish pick up schedule. That information should be released by mid-March. We should see the completion of the Thompson Road project within the next month. I know I will be happy to see that project completed! I hope you each have a wonderful March and enjoy your Spring Break! Scott

Sophie Martin | Ward 1

This spring take time to enjoy some of our beautiful city parks. This includes Abbey Wooley Park located in Ward 1 off Highway 11. Our parks offer playgrounds, shaded seating, picnic tables, walking trails, and many other amenities for Alabaster residents to enjoy. Just a reminder, all streetlights in Alabaster will be upgraded to LED lighting. This includes traditional streetlights and decorative lighting. LED lighting is more cost-efficient, durable, and there is an increase in quality. Alabama Power will provide more than 2000 lights, provide electricity to the fixtures, and then assume all light maintenance. This will be very beneficial to our city. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at martin@cityofalabaster.com. Kindest regards, Sophie cityofalabaster.com

Rick Ellis | Ward 2 I hope everyone survived all the rain that we had in February. I for one hope that we are moving into a little drier pattern as we move into March and the beginning of spring sports in our school system. With softball, baseball, soccer, track and spring football practice all going on this spring, there will be a lot of activity around the school’s sports fields. Also coming this month, the Park and Rec department’s spring sports will begin in our city parks. The city’s fields and parks, along with the schools fields, will be full of children playing softball, baseball and soccer. Go check out a game in the city’s parks or at a school facility if you get a chance and support Alabaster’s kids as they represent our community. I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Thompson High School wrestling team on another State Championship! Go Warriors! Unfortunately spring can also bring severe weather. March would be a great time to become prepared for the possibility of severe weather in the coming months. I hope everyone has a fun and safe spring break. As always, if you have questions or concerns please feel free to contact me at ellis@cityofalabaster.com. Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Rick

Stacy Rakestraw | Ward 3 Are you or someone you know looking for a way to volunteer or earn community service hours?  On Saturday, April 6, 2019, the opportunity to pick up litter in our city will be available. The city will provide public safety, vests, gloves, bags and a free T-Shirt for each group. Please email me at rakestraw@cityofalabaster.com to register your group. This is our 7th annual Alabaster Clean Sweep and it began as a way for residents, schools, sports teams, clubs, churches, and organizations to have the opportunity to bring groups of volunteers together to clean litter from the city roadways.  Also, the initiative is used to raise awareness about littering and educate residents on how they can help keep our city beautiful. Congratulations to Ethan Scales and Trey Woodall, both of Scout Troop 548 on their recent accomplishment of earning their Eagle Scout rank which is the highest honor bestowed on a Scout! Please get involved with For Tomorrow, Alabaster, in cooperation with Compact 2020 to stay up to date on issues students face in the world of substance abuse. For Tomorrow is a group of concerned community members who are implementing projects and activities to reduce youth substance use in the City of Alabaster. Volunteers are needed, and the meetings are open

COUNCIL COMMENTS to the public.  The next meeting is April 16 at 9 a.m. at Alabaster City Hall, 1953 Municipal Way. Follow them on Facebook by searching For Tomorrow. Be proactive and clean out your medicine cabinets, especially if you have children or grandchildren in your homes. Unused prescriptions can be taken to the Alabaster Police Department for safe disposal. I hope everyone has a safe and relaxing spring break. Stacy

Greg Farrell

| Ward 4 Last month I shared with you a summary of the 2018 annual report from the Fire Department. This month I’d like to share a summary of the 2018 annual report for the Police Department. The department received some must-needed equipment the past year to help keep our Officers safer. They also took delivery of several new vehicles to replace aging ones. This has been an ongoing plan within the department to upgrade an aging fleet. The City also began planning for a new Police Headquarters for the department. Here are some statistics for the department for 2018: lncidents/Calls 44,007 Traffic Accidents 1,459 Traffic Citations1,636 Traffic Warnings3,710 Traffic Arrests1,527 Total Miles Driven by Patrol518,314 miles, this equates to an average of 1,420 miles a day. I would like to thank Chief Rigney and his department for their hard work last year. Congratulations to all the athletes that signed on National Signing Day. We wish them good luck as they go to the next level in their sport and education. Also, congratulations to the Thompson Warrior Wrestling Team for another State Title. Greg

Russell Bedsole | Ward 5 March is here, and our spring sports will be kicking off in the next few weeks. Good luck to all the little Warriors out there on the baseball and softball diamonds and our soccer fields. And while we are at it, a tip of the cap to our staff at Parks and Rec for having our fields ready to go for this spring sports season despite all the recent rain. Keeping with the sports theme, a huge congratulations to the Thompson High School wrestlers. These awesome young men, along with their hard-working and dedicated coaches, captured their seventh state title in the last nine years. Can you name anoth-

er sports program as dominant as our Warrior wrestlers? I can’t. Be on the lookout for the details on a brand-new junk and rubbish service that will be rolled out soon.  Following our decision to no longer conduct this service weekly, we received so much great feedback from all you.  This new service was driven largely in part by you, the citizens of Alabaster. It has been a wonderful time of discussion as we work to deliver a service that meets the needs of our citizens while complying with all the different rules and regulations are City must adhere to. Thanks for all your input. Lastly, before I go, I like to periodically solicit feedback from you. Please send me any thoughts or suggestions you may have for our city. I love hearing all the good ideas and insights. Thanks Alabaster! Russell

Kerri Pate

| Ward 7 Hello, friends & neighbors – I want to thank so many of you for reaching out to me with your good ideas and conversations this month. It is deeply meaningful to me to know that you are passionate enough about our city to voice your concerns. When I was elected, I felt great pride in knowing that I could be an avenue to get your questions answered and to speak on your behalf. While I may not always have the answers that you are completely satisfied with, my efforts and commitment are unwavering. Please continue to reach out to me. I want to congratulate two special young leaders in our area: Mr. Ethan Scales and Mr. Trey Woodall. Both of these young men have worked hard to earn the Scouts’ highest honor of receiving their Eagle Scout Award. We are getting close to a very exciting time of year: Youth Spring Soccer, Baseball & Softball season! We have 380 registered to play baseball and softball, and 456 for soccer! Our Parks & Rec Department has their hands full with uniforms, schedules and field prep. Thank you for all that you do. We are fortunate to live in a city that puts our children at the top of our list of priorities! I hope you’ll have a chance to swing by the fields this Spring to take in some of the sights and sounds of this fun season. Our Senior Center is one of the county’s MOST active, and I would say the most FUN! We are blessed with the best director, Alicia Walters, and great staff members, Ms. Rosa & Mr. Jim. Alicia recently applied for and received an annual grant through Shelby County to help aid with all of the services that we are so fortunate to offer to our precious seniors. Thank you, Senior Center! Brighter & warmer days are just around the corner... I hope to see you out and about! Kerri cityofalabaster.com

FEATURE

7 Tips for a Super Spring Break W

hether you’re spending your Spring Break out and about, visiting a different destination, or simply relaxing and enjoying a change of pace here at home, here are some tips to make this much-needed time off more enjoyable:

Step It Up

Escaping the hustle and bustle of regular life with a week of sleeping in and watching Netflix may sound awfully appealing. But physical activity is one way to keep your mood up and your weight down. Exercise doesn’t have to feel like a chore, though. Getting the recommended amount of heart-healthy activity in each day can be accomplished by playing a few rounds of disc golf at Veteran’s Park, riding your bike around your neighborhood, or going for a swim at the YMCA.

Avoid Overindulging

While you might enjoy choosing a cocktail, glass of wine or beer while you’re on vacation or taking a break from the daily grind, be careful to practice moderation with alcohol consumption. Unfortunately, alcohol also often goes hand-in-hand with no-so-healthy food choices, as well. So, while it’s fun to indulge a little here and there over break, remember to feed your body adequate amounts of water and nutritional foods like fruits, veggies and lean proteins to keep yourself fueled up cityofalabaster.com

and ready to take on your Spring Break adventures!

It’s Not (Just) About You

Instead of just wasting time lounging at home over Spring Break week, consider investing that time in helping others. Find a neighbor who needs help with their yard. Donate the results of your (Marie Kondo-style!) spring-cleaning to someone in need. Or find one of Alabaster’s many nonprofit organizations or ministries that could use your helping hands to make a difference in the community.

Have a (Potential!) Plan in Mind

If you’re traveling with friends over Spring Break, write out potential activities, locations and restaurants that everyone might like to try to fit into the schedule. You may not get to everything but having at least a list of options readily available can make decision-making on the fly easier.

Guard Your Wallet

One of the hardest parts of being a tourist over Spring Break, is resisting the urge to overspend. While it can feel fun in the moment to

impulsively spend, consider deciding on a certain amount of cash for the days away to avoid simply swiping a card for each expenditure. Remember, it’s okay to say, “Nah, not this time,” if your traveling companions suggest activities or indulgences that will regrettably burst your budget.

Catch Some ZZZZ’s

Vacation from school often spells vacation from regular sleeping schedules, as well. Strive to keep your kiddos within an hour or so of normal sleep routines to help keep them more rested (and less cranky!) over break.

Safety First

While Spring Break can be an exciting few days away, always remember to stay safe. Keep a charged cell phone with you, be aware of your surroundings, travel with trusted companions, know the local laws, and pro-actively communicate your plans with someone else to prevent unnecessary worrying so you (and your loved ones!) can more fully enjoy Spring Break 2019! AC

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FEATURE

PALS DEDICATED TO CLEAN SCHOOL CAMPUSES

Alabama, is the fifth-most biodiverse state, according to the Encyclopedia of Alabama.

e have some of the most documented species of animals, and “64 types of terrestrial ecosystems.” Jamie Mitchell, Clean Campus Coordinator, with the Alabama PALS organization is dedicated to keeping Alabama Beautiful. “Alabama People Against a Littered State (ALPALS) is a state-wide organization dedicated to making our state more beautiful by sponsoring programs focused on cleaning up litter in Alabama's streets, streams, campuses, and coastlines. We serve every county, city, and school in the state of Alabama in order to achieve our mission of a litter-free state,” she shared. Mitchell’s focus is on teaching students about being litter-free. “The Alabama Clean Campus Program is designed to involve all Alabama schools in litter control, beautification, recycling and clean-up efforts, which will instill good stewardship and environmental awareness for future generations. In addition to offering bags, recycling boxes, window decals and online curriculum, I am also available, full time, to provide on-campus programs for Alabama schools. This pro-

gram is offered at no cost to all Alabama schools,” Mitchell enthusiastically said. Schools may apply online to become a part of the Clean Campus Program at www.alpals.org. Once a member, schools are encouraged to enter their poster, recycled art and scrapbook contests, which this year will be administered by the Alabaster Beautification Board. Contest

"Littering adversely affects the safety and welfare of our state’s wildlife and its citizens by impacting environmental quality. Litter is a visual pollution and the harm it causes goes well beyond its unpleasant appearance." - Jamie Mitchell prizes awarded to students and schools range from $200-$1. All Alabama county, city and private schools are invited to join the Clean Campus Program. For Mitchell, litter is not only an eyesore but a hindrance to everyone. “Littering adversely affects the safety

and welfare of our state’s wildlife and its citizens by impacting environmental quality. Litter is a visual pollution and the harm it causes goes well beyond its unpleasant appearance. The estimated cost of picking up litter is around 30 cents per piece, so it can add up quickly and be a major financial burden on our state as well,” Mitchell shared. Mitchell has a healthy obsession with teaching our students the role they can have in keeping Alabama Beautiful. “I am passionate about a clean state because I believe that cleanliness is an indication of the type of people you’ll find in an area. I do not want anyone to think Alabamians are indifferent or lazy when they drive through our beautiful state. We have some of the most beautiful landscape in the country, and to have it littered with our trash is just sickening. I have been with PALS four-and-a-half years, and I am proud to teach future generations how they can make a difference by doing just a little bit each day,” she proudly said. To find out more about how you or your school can be involved, visit www. alpals.org or call (334) 263-7737. AC cityofalabaster.com

COVER

PARENTS: NEVER STOP LEARNING! Doing What It Takes to Protect Our Children from Substance Abuse

t’s no secret that today’s kids face a world that is not the same as what their parents grew up in. But especially with the increasing pressures and impact of technology, cell phones, and social media, parents must now – more than ever – learn to be vigilant and discover exactly what they are up against. Especially when it comes to the dangers of substance abuse.

PREPARING PARENTS FOR TOMORROW “Mayor Handlon’s office had the keen insight to listen to our community and to see the need for a community-led prevention team,” said APD Investigator Tommy Stewart, who also serves as Director of the Compact 2020 initiative. “That team, now known as, For Tomorrow, serves the mission to educate and empower youth, families, and communities to eradicate drugs and prevent substance abuse. Parent University, then, derived from that.” Parent University is a unique program that helps equip parents with knowledge of various subjects or issues concerning their students. With that newfound knowledge, the parents can then have clearer cityofalabaster.com

insights to better understand what their students are facing in today’s rapidly changing environment, he explained. LEARNING THROUGH PARENT UNIVERSITY The next Parent University seminar is free and open to all adults. It will be held on March 7 at Thompson High School Performing Arts Center. The main topic will be Tobacco in the 21st Century: E-cigarettes, Vape and JUUL. The presenters will include both a Youth Perspective led by a student panel and a presentation from Abigail Duemier, the Youth Tobacco Prevention Coordinator at UAB. They will be discussing the increased ▶

COVER use and dangers of these products among our students and communities over the past year. For Inv. Stewart, this subject is deeply personal. As a police officer for over 20 years, he has seen the destinations of too many young people on the path towards substance abuse and the ways that parents often deal with the stigma associated with those addictions. “Too many parents say, ‘Not my kid!’ or ‘It’ll never happen in my family.’ But the truth is, these things [the vape and JUUL] are easily accessible, even in most regular gas stations, like it’s no big deal! This then positions kids to be able to do these dangerous and addictive actions right under their parents’ noses. The parents have no idea that anything is even happening,” he exclaimed. “By educating parents, we give them the first chance to intervene in their kids’ lives. They can help teach their own kids – through prevention and intervention – before a police officer has to step in and utilize law enforcement, instead.” OVERCOMING THE STIGMA TOGETHER Inv. Stewart recognizes that while substance abuse is an individual’s issue, it quickly becomes a community issue when those addictions are allowed to continue unaddressed. “We’ve all had helping hands along the way. You’re not a bad parent just because your kid struggles with substance abuse. We need to move past that stigma and get to the root of the issue.” He says it takes a whole community to do this right. “Parents, clergy, law enforcement, medical personnel, businesses, everybody! There are things that I can’t do as a police officer, but someone in a group like For Tomorrow can step in and help bridge that gap.” KNOWING WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Although Compact 2020 is a county-wide endeavor, Alabaster's For Tomorrow team serves to tailor the focus of each Parent University session and other initiatives to serve a specific purpose unique to this community and its challenges. We want to provide awareness and education for parents to things they may otherwise remain unaware of until it’s too late. It also offers practical ways to protect and engage their children in conversation. Ashley Crumpton, Director of Operations for Compact 2020, shared, “We have already covered topics like how to engage with your child as a parent, and how to safely help your children navigate social media, even down to the practical basics of how to put necessary security settings in place.” By a continued partnership with the community, parents, and students, it is the goal of this coalition to keep the Alabaster community informed on anything that may impact the youth in our area. This may be accomplished through educational events,

resource booths, and seminars such as Parent University. “The beauty of it is, it’s Alabaster’s own who decide what they want to touch on. We all have different experiences, and we come together to discover the unique issues each community is experiencing and ways to start addressing them,” reinforced Lieutenant Nathan Kendrick, Assistant Director for Compact 2020. “These efforts could not happen without partnerships with Alabaster City Schools, City of Alabaster, Bradford Health Services, Alabaster Police Department, Compact 2020 and Alabaster’s For Tomorrow coalition.” “I, Surgeon General of the United States Public Health Service, VADM Jerome Adams, am emphasizing the importance of protecting our children from a lifetime of nicotine addiction and associated health risks by immediately addressing the epidemic of youth e-cigarette use. The recent surge in e-cigarette use among youth, which has been fueled by new types of e-cigarettes that have recently entered the market, is a cause for great concern. We must take action now to protect the health of our nation’s young people. KNOW THE RISKS. TAKE ACTION. PROTECT OUR KIDS.” AC PARENT UNIVERSITY: “TOBACCO IN THE 21ST CENTURY: E-CIGARETTES, VAPE, AND JUUL” March 7th 6:00 – 8:30 PM Thompson High School Performing Arts Center 1921 Warrior Parkway, Alabaster cityofalabaster.com

FEATURE

ALABASTER SPRING SPORTS UPDATE KEEPING UP WITH ALABASTER'S MANY REMARKABLE ATHLETIC TEAMS our growing alumni support and the support of our local businesses in Alabaster, and without the support of ACS and the City of Alabaster, we definitely wouldn’t have this continual success.” Congratulations to the Thompson Warriors Wresting Team – Your city is proud of you!

THE LIONS’ ROAR KINGWOOD LIONS ATHLETICS

D wrestling for the win THS Wrestlers Win State Championship

he Thompson Warrior wrestlers left their mark at the 2019 AHSAA Wrestling State Tournament in Huntsville, February 14-16! The team won the Class 7A championship for the second back-to-back year, with a tournament-record 180 points. “It’s been a milestone-achieving, record-breaking year for us,” enthused THS Wrestling Coach Shawn Weltzin. With the Warriors having now amassed over 500 wins, Coach Weltzin recognized it is not only the athletes themselves who work hard to earn these victories, but that they are a result of everyone pulling together towards a common goal. “It’s really been awesome to see what all can be accomplished when not only the kids buy-in to the program, but all their parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and grandparents buy-in to it.”  He continued giving kudos to the supporters of the athletes and the wrestling program, saying, “We have been blessed with cityofalabaster.com

espite moving classifications from 2A to 3A and adding six first-year head coaches to the staff, the Kingwood athletics teams are gaining momentum. “This year, we have seen improvements not only in the winning records, but also in fan support with attendance at each game,” shared KCS Principal Ruth Gray.

FOOTBALL: The Lions Football program went from a 1-10 record last year, to a 5-5 mark this year. “I give credit to an improved coaching staff and a drastic improvement defensively,” said Head Coach and Athletic Director, Todd Bradford, “The Lions gave up 45.7 points/game in 2017 but improved to 21.6 points/game this season.”

BASKETBALL: The Lions Basketball program excelled under the direction of a new coaching staff for the 2018-19 season. Coach David Kline assumed the role of JV coach for both boys and girls. After not having a JV girls team in 2017-18, Kline led a girls’ team he built from scratch to a 6-7 record.  Coach Derrick Miles took over a struggling Varsity Boys program and turned it into a top ranked program in his first year. He improved to a 16-6 mark from a 7-12 season in 2017-18, while taking Kingwood to the First Round of the State Playoffs.

SOCCER: In his second season as head coach, Coach David Kline has high hopes for a young Lions Soccer team. Kingwood has never sent ▶

FEATURE a squad to the postseason, but he has made this his team’s goal for the upcoming season. With only four seniors, he will depend on underclassmen to carry the load during this building phase.

VOLLEYBALL: The Lions Volleyball program was led by first-year coach Mellisa Gilbert. With just two wins in 2017, the Varsity squad improved to a 14-8 season and an appearance in the Elite 8 in 2018. The Lady Lions also saw huge success and improvements as the JV squad went undefeated in the regular season.

CHEER:

SOFTBALL: Coach Mike Robinson is one of only three returning head coaches on Kingwood’s staff. Robinson will rely on a young team this year with only one senior. “The future looks bright for this developing group of underclassmen!” he enthused.

TRACK: The Lions Track program graduated a huge number of seniors in 2016 and 2017, but in 2018 gained even more young athletes with a lot of talent and even more potential. Almost all of those athletes returned to the program in 2019. Expect to hear great things coming from the Kingwood Track program over the next 4-5 years! AC

First-year Cheer sponsors Lynae Nathe and Cori McBride lead the Kingwood girls to a successful showing at AISA’s Cheer Clinic at Huntingdon College, taking home third place overall.

BASEBALL: The Lions Baseball team is starting the 2019 season under a new first-time head coach Adam Tekulve. “The Lions have some impressive arms on the mound and a well-balanced line-up,” he pointed out. “The senior-heavy group is buying into a new philosophy with expectations to compete in their new 3A classification.”

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UPCOMING EVENTS THAT ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC INCLUDE: VITA IRS FREE TAX PREP Tuesdays and Thursdays February 5 - May 2 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. ACD Resource Center

WRITING WORKSHOP Saturday, March 16 1:00 p.m. Soldiers of The Cross Ministries

GRAND OPENING OF THE ACD RESOURCE CENTER/ TUTORING/POETRY LAB Saturday, April 27

DRUM THE PROGRAM Cultural Arts Summer Camp drumtheprogram.org Mid-July ACD Resource Center

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FIGHTING FORWARD TOGETHER Soldiers of the Cross and The Alliance Community Development Serving the Community

hen facing a battle in life, it is always a benefit to have someone come alongside you to fight with you. Alabaster’s Soldiers of the Cross (SOTC) Ministries and the non-profit Alliance Community Development (ACD) are dedicated to being just that for many in the community. Each month, the ACD meets on the third Thursday from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Alliance Community Development Resource Center located at 100 Mount Olive Rd #B in Alabaster. THEIR MISSION? “Our goal is ‘Empowering People, Improving Lives’ and ‘Working Today to Change Tomorrow’,” explained ACD Executive Director Tonya Smitherman. “We are a nonprofit organization focused on providing much needed resources and services to the citizens in Alabaster and the surrounding communities.” Specifically, the SOTC Ministry and the ACD work together to come alongside people who are fighting battles that are difficult to win alone. “Alliance Community Development focuses on helping the homeless through an ▶

ALABASTER HELPS outreach called ‘Hope for Keeps.’ We also care for the elderly by assisting with house cleaning tasks, carrying them to the store or church, etcetera. We serve the needy, as we assist with housing and financial assistance for single parents,” she described.

"We are a nonprofit organization focused on providing much needed resources and services to the citizens in Alabaster and the surrounding communities." - Tonya Smitherman These efforts to assist those in need would not be complete without also working to empower the next generation with the heart and skills necessary to succeed. Thus, the Alliance and SOTC Ministry’s Pastor Danita Ryan are passionate about raising up youth who learn the value of serving and helping others. The

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Youth Advisory Board members have the opportunity to delve into community service projects, take important educational field trips and invest their time in bettering themselves and the community around them. “The Youth Advisory Board is taking a trip to the Civil Rights Museum in Montgomery in March and then we are doing

college tours to Jacksonville State and Birmingham Southern in April and May.” Quarterly financial and educational seminars are also offered to both youth and adults at the Alliance Community Development Center. During this specific season, they are also again offering VITA IRS free tax preparation services on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the ACD Resource Center. These, and other events and services, are open to the public. Getting the community involved with the SOTC ministries and the ACD services is key. “Whether you help through monetary donations, volunteering your time, or spreading our mission through wordof-mouth, thank you. We couldn't accomplish our goals without the help of supporters like you.” To learn more, visit @GivingBack100x on Facebook, call 205-378-9236, or email alliancecommunitydevelop@gmail.com. AC

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

WHAT A

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WARRIOR EXPRESS ON 119 W

arrior Express on 119 may be new to the community, but its owners are anything but. Shane and Debbie Jones have been in Alabaster – and in the convenience store industry – for decades. They take pride in now having one of their gas station locations in the place they call home. “They know me here,” Shane proudly admitted. “I’ve lived here a long time.”

NO PLACE LIKE HOME Although the family also owns a store location in Brent, Ala., Jones’ daughter, Jamie ( Jones) Findley, sees her parents’ personal connection to the Alabaster community as a meaningful positive for the new business. “They live here in Alabaster and they personally saw the need for [one of their stores] here. And then came that beautiful high school they just built, and we thought, ‘Yes, now we really need something more than just a typical gas station here,’ so that’s what we went for.” Warrior Express on 119 had its soft opening just before Christmas 2018. After closing for the holidays, the upscale convenience store reopened to start the new year strong. It is now open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. cityofalabaster.com

WHY DID THE CARS CROSS THE ROAD? When asked why they decided on the end of Thompson Road as their location of choice, Jamie smiled and slowly shook her head, saying, “Highway 119 is always busy. But honestly, if we’ve heard it once, we’ve heard it a thousand times – it’s nice to finally have a gas station on this side of the road! But we truly want to be more than just that. We want to be worth crossing the road for, too!” To make it worth drivers’ efforts to pull into the Warrior Express on 119, the owners decided that they would make non-ethanol fuel and diesel also available at every one of their ten shiny new pumps. “It was a big expense for us to do that, but it makes it more convenient for people to not have to wait in line to get it from only one pump that offers it, like many other gas stations do. We are also happy to accept Fuelman as a form of payment.” This location also uniquely offers different cash and credit prices on gasoline. “People will see that often in bigger cities, but here, it’s just not as common. But, basically, you get a discount if you use cash,” Jamie continued. “Credit card companies charge us crazy high fees to process your payments. We don’t have those fees when people use cash. Now, at other places, they just keep the profits when you use cash ▶

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT instead of swiping a card. But here, if you use cash or a Texaco or Chevron credit card, we choose to give you the lower cash price, because we aren’t being charged that fee to process that purchase.” For customers who prefer the ease of using a card at the pump instead of prepaying with cash, applications for the Texaco and Chevron gas cards and credit cards are available at the front counter. FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD! That’s not the only reason why you should make your way inside the brand-new, 4,500 square-foot storefront, though. Inside, you’ll find pristine restrooms, and lots of options for food and drinks! “Our focus is on offering a variety of different things – good food, a great craft beer selection, a coffee bar, Krispy Kreme doughnuts that come in fresh every morning,” Jamie listed. “Everything we do, we try to make it very varied because we have after school traffic; we have kids; we have people going to work and from work; it’s a big mix of people looking for different things!” While the family’s Brent location currently boasts being the top Hunt Brothers pizza location in the state of Alabama, the family expects the Alabaster location to quickly claim that title. “We sell

over 800 pizza a week out of only two ovens in Brent!” Shane proudly exclaimed. “Here, though, we have four ovens plus we have pizza delivery options for our customers all day long!” He points out that for only about ten dollars – and in about as many minutes – customers can call in their customized pizza order and pick it up on their way or from ball games, over lunch, or after work. Or, perhaps better yet, they can order any of their food options on the menu – pizza, wings, BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, and more – from the Waitr app on their phone and have it delivered directly to their location! “The Waitr app can be downloaded on your phone and for a small fee, they will deliver our food to you,” Jamie explained. “They are so prompt. As soon as the customer’s orders are placed in the app, their delivery person comes right here and waits to pick up the food to deliver! So, there’s no doubt that people are getting fresh, hot food from our ovens!” TIME TO CELEBRATE A NEW BEGINNING! Join the Jones family and many of their featured vendors on Saturday, March 9 to celebrate the official grand opening of the Warrior Express on 119. “We’ll have a lot of our partners here with samples – pizza, wings, BBQ, energy drink reps, local craft beer that we stock. It’ll be a lot of fun and you won’t want to miss it!” AC

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CITIZEN SPOTLIGHT

HATS FOR CATS: L

ando Aldridge is your typical second grader at Meadow View Elementary School. Outgoing and social, he plays baseball, gave wrestling a go, and is in the Chess Club. He enjoys math and science and tries to invent all kinds of fun things. But something that sets the seven-year-old apart from his peers, is his love of sewing.

SEW, WHAT’S NEW?

Lando became interested in sewing by hand while watching his mom, Francie-Ann Vono-Aldridge, sewing his Halloween costume in 2017.   “He picked it up quickly!” the proud mama pointed out. “And a couple weeks after that, he announced that he wanted to sew everyone's Christmas presents that year.” Once she and Lando’s dad, James Boyd Aldridge, determined he was serious about pursuing the craft, they bought him a sewing machine as an early Christmas present.

MEOWS THE TIME!

The Aldridge family spent the week before Christmas that year with Lando’s aunt’s family in Arlington, TX. Upon arrival, he discovered that his aunt fostered cats – lots of them! He was in “Cat Heaven,” as he said. But when he learned that many of Aunt Mary Beth’s cats didn’t have forever families and were lonely or mistreated before she took them in, he became sad and wanted to help. Thus, he decided to combine his enjoyment of sewing with his passion for animals to make fleece hats to sell as a way of raising money for their care.

PAWS FOR THE CAUSE 18

He decided to call his business endeavor “Hats for Cats” and cityofalabaster.com

A 7-YEAR-OLD’S HEARTFELT EFFORT TO CARE FOR KITTIES IN NEED chose to contribute the proceeds to the cat rescue his aunt is involved with in Texas and to the Alabaster-local Sanctuary Animal Rescue. “A few people have thought he was making hats for cats to wear,” Francie-Ann said with a laugh, “But when they find out the hats are actually for people, the proceeds are helping rescue animals, and that Lando is actually sewing them, everyone has been very positive!” Lando sold his first fleece hat on January 5, 2018. That year alone, he was able to share total proceeds of $817 with the two animal rescue organizations he currently supports. So far in 2019, he has already raised over $329! A number of the hats he has made are available for purchase at the Alabaster PetSmart during Sanctuary Animal Rescue’s adoption events and at the Countryside Animal Hospital in Montevallo. Previously only hats were available in dog, cat, and llama patterns. However, he has recently expanded his line to include camouflage designs, and also makes canvas tote bags and over-sized pet pillows. “I want people to be able to help the kitties all year long,” he explained.

A PURR-FECT OPPORTUNITY

Although Lando is an animal lover – including his own cat, dog and pet chickens – the little boy’s big heart is not just turned towards the furry and feathered in need. He wanted to donate his handmade hats to pediatric cancer patients at Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House. However, neither were accepting donations of that kind. Instead, a number of Lando’s hats are being donated to an emergency shelter in Meriden, Connecticut where there are currently 10 children in residence, along with their families. Each child will receive a fun hat and the joy of knowing that a little boy in Alabaster, Alabama cares about them! For more information about Hats for Cats or to contribute to Lando’s efforts, visit www.Facebook.com/HelpKitties or www. francesvono.wixsite.com/hatsforcats/donate. AC

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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

SPOTLIGHT ON ALABASTER HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST, KIMI PEARSON

imi Pearson may have just begun her role as Human Resources Specialist for the City of Alabaster in January, but she is already enjoying the support she provides for her fellow employees. Getting to know employees and helping them find solutions to problems is what Kimi loves most about her job. “Whether it’s educating them on their benefits or helping them navigate a difficult situation, I love to help employees find the answers they need,” she says. “It can be difficult to know the right steps to take when you are experiencing something that doesn’t fall within the scope of your normal job duties,” Kim explains. “Human Resources is where you go find answers to questions about benefits, leave, or filling vacant positions. We’re there to help employees with those things so that they can focus on their job duties and better serve the city.” A typical workday for Kimi involves greeting visitors; fielding phone calls

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from applicants, employees, and companies trying to verify employment; assisting with the application screening process; posting newly opened positions; maintaining employee files; ordering supplies; and processing requisitions and purchase orders for the human resources department.  Kimi is not new to the Human Resources field, having worked for the University of Montevallo’s accounts payable department and also for the human resources department at Enterprise Holdings. One thing that she appreciates about her field is that there are changes that benefit the employees she serves. “Having worked in human resources before, I was already familiar with the processes. I really enjoy the fact that my customers are the people I have the privilege to work with,” Kimi shares. “I think in human resources, everything is always changing so much that we are constantly learning new and more efficient ways to do things. So this position is an ongoing training/education for me.” When not at work, Kimi enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She has been married to her high school sweetheart for 15 years and they have a 12-year-old son, Cole. AC

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BEAUTIFICATION BOARD

GARDENING TIPS FOR MARCH According to Rootwell.com, the end of March marks the beginning of spring and in the Southeastern part of the country, spring definitely feels as though it is here. With spring already underway, it is time to get out into the garden and yard. March is an exciting month where new growth begins and everything starts anew. LANDSCAPE TIPS: • Make sure you prune all trees and shrubs before any new growth • Once the threat of frost is gone, you can fertilize your lawn • Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to your lawn to help prevent any weeds that come up this summer. • Add mulch to all newly planted shrubs, vegetables, and plants FRUITS AND VEGETABLES: Vegetables to plant in early spring: Beets, broccoli, brussels, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, collards, green onions, leafy lettuces, kale, leeks, mustard, parsnips, radishes, rutabagas, spinach, Swiss chard, turnips GENERAL GARDENING TIPS: • Plant spring and summer flowering bulbs like dahlias and cannas • This is a great time to check your sprinkler system

E-CYCLE EVENT

Do not miss out on the free e-cycle and shred-it day as part of April’s Clean Sweep month. During Clean Sweep, everyone in Alabaster is encouraged to Clean-up, Clean Out, and Haul-off any rubbish, junk, or debris around our beautiful city. As part of these clean-up efforts, the city provides free (in most cases) resources to shred your documents, or e-cycle unwanted electronics. The only fee would be $10 if someone wants to have their hard drive shredded by Protec. This event will take place on April 13 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Thompson Intermediate School, 10019 Hwy 119. Some items you can recycle are: • Computers and laptops • Smartphones and tablets • Wires, cables, modems, and routers • Printers, copiers, toner, and ink cartridges • TVs and stereos • Small appliances and other consumer electronics Items that are not accepted: • Flammable or combustible materials • Items containing mercury (thermostats, thermometers) • Lightbulbs • Paint, adhesives, caulk, solvents or thinners A full list of accepted and non-accepted items is on the city’s website.

BEAUTIFICATION AWARD WINNER Keith and Dawn Owens 210 Lake Forest Way This property is located in Ward 7 in the Lake Forest subdivision. The owners take great pride in the landscape of their yard. There is a nice flowerbed off to the right with a hint of ornamental purple cabbage (Brassica oleracea). This time of the year it is difficult to show much color, but this plant does a good job. The Beautification winner for February is in Ward 7. Next month the winner will be from Ward 1. To nominate a property for the Beautification Award, email the Beautification Board. CONTACT THE BEAUTIFICATION BOARD: beauty@cityofalabaster.com

cityofalabaster.com

AROUND TOWN

AEDS AVAILABLE IN ALABASTER

at Conn, Chief of Operations, Alabaster Fire Department is in charge of the city’s AED program. “An AED is an automatic external defibrillator,” shared Chief Conn. AEDs are lightweight, easy to use and accessible for untrained Good Samaritans to use. “Typically, the cardiac monitors we carry on the truck require some type of knowledge about how to operate the device. These don’t,” he said while touching the small pouch containing an AED. AEDs are used whenever a suspected heart attack is in progress. “The two most important things you can do for someone in cardiac arrest is to initiate CPR as soon as possible and to apply rapid defibrillation. The AED is designed to provide our community with a solution to the second task thus giving the patient the best chance to survive. By distributing these devices at key locations around town it gives that patient a much higher survivability rate,” Chief Conn said. An AED, when activated, will provide clear audible instructions for the user. “There is some human input with an AED. The device actually talks to you and it tells you to shock or not to shock a person and you simply hit the button. The advantage of that is it allows someone with very minimal training or somebody with no training whatsoever to be able to apply this device and render appropriate care based on the recommendations,” he explained. The city has eleven AEDs around town. The police department, library, senior center, environmental services, city hall, and the remaining ones are at various parks throughout the city. “They are small, cost less than $2,500 per device, and are easy to use. The Lifepak 15, which we carry on our trucks, cost over $30,000 each,” he said. According to Chief Conn, there are some common signals of a cardiac arrest. “Some signs are unresponsiveness, pulseless, and more than likely not breathing. They might have a blue tint to their face and head from the lack of oxygen being circulated. If you are in doubt, initiate CPR after calling 911. If there is an AED device nearby, use it as well and follow the instructions,” he said. Alabaster was one of the first cities to offer AEDs and they have been available for about a year. While none of the public locations have been accessed, the small device has been used. “We got a call to a nursing home facility, the Battalion Chief on call got their first, took the AED with him, and was able to deploy it while he waited for the truck to arrive. Anything we can do to help our citizens survive we are going to do,” Chief Conn said. The Alabaster Fire Department offers quarterly CPR training that is open to the public. To find out more: www.cityofalabaster.com/175/Fire-Department AC

cityofalabaster.com

AROUND TOWN

EAGLE SCOUT ETHAN SCALES

EAGLE SCOUT TREY WOODALL

Ethan Scales, a 15-year-old member of Troop 548, has attained the level of Eagle Scout. This is the highest honor bestowed on a Scout and was earned through his successful construction of a multi-purpose outdoor gathering area on the grounds of Saint Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Montevallo. Mayor Handlon commended Ethan for this accomplishment, in addition to his having earned 25 merit badges and having held the offices of Scribe, Quartermaster, Patrol Leader and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Order of the Arrow, and for completing High Adventure Scout Camp at The Summit.

Trey Woodall, a 16-year-old member of Troop 548, has attained the level of Eagle Scout. This is the highest honor bestowed on a Scout and was earned through his successful construction of an outdoor classroom at Buck Creek Park in Alabaster. Mayor Handlon commended Trey for this accomplishment, in addition to his having earned 36 merit badges, and having held the offices of Den Chief, Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader, and Junior Assistant Scoutmaster, as well as completing High Adventure Scout Camps at Philmont and The Summit.

RARE DISEASE PROCLAMATION

CITY OF ALABASTER NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR TEEN COUNCIL 2019-2020

According to the National Institute of Health, there are nearly 7,000 disease conditions that are considered “rare,” each affecting fewer than 200,000 in the United States. At the Feb. 18 City Council meeting, Mayor Handlon recognized the impact that these diseases have on the lives of those affected and their families. The City of Alabaster joined with the patients, caregivers, medical professionals, researchers and others in the nationwide observance of Rare Disease Day on February 28, 2019. cityofalabaster.com

The City of Alabaster is accepting applications through March 29 for the Teen Council. The Teen Council is open to all High School Students in Alabaster, regardless of what school they attend. Applications are available on the city’s website. www.CityofAlabaster.com

AROUND TOWN

GET INVOLVED! ALABASTER CLEAN SWEEP!

he Alabaster Beautification Board and the City of Alabaster want to remind everyone that during the month of April the City will be focusing on bringing volunteers together to help clean up all areas of our city such as streets, roads, schoolyards, parking lots, vacant lots or abandoned properties, business frontages, etc. We are asking residents, civic groups, businesses, schools, churches, etc. to help identify areas that need to be cleaned-up. Make a difference by volunteering to be a part of the City’s cleanup and become a good steward of our environment. CLEAN-UP: Saturday 4/6/19 DEADLINE FOR VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP: 3/22/19 Shred-it and Electronic recycling: Saturday 4/13/19 at Thompson Intermediate on Hwy 119

Please sign up by contacting Councilperson Stacy Rakestraw: rakestraw@cityofalabaster.com

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CALENDAR

COMMUNITY MARCH February 4th School Board 5:30 pm February 4th Council 7 pm February 6th Court Plea Dockets 9 am & 2 pm February 12th Board of Zoning Adj. 6:30 pm February 13th Court Plea Dockets 9 am & 2 pm

hats for service members, lap blankets, prayer shawls and many other things, plus we have a really good time. We hope you will join us! For more information please call the library at 664-6822 or email Carol Smith at csmith@shelbycounty-al.org. Program takes place in the meeting room.

February 19th Planning Commission 7 pm

ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES -

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

Call or come by to sign up. 664-6822.

The Albert L. Scott Library is located at 100 9th Street N.W., Alabaster. Hours of operation are: Mon., Tue. and Thu.: 9 am - 7:50 pm Wednesday: 10 am - 5:50 pm Friday: 9 am - 5:50 pm Saturday: 10 am - 4:50 pm Sunday: 1 pm - 4:50 pm

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

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.

YA YA YARNERS March 4, 11, 18, and 25 at 5:30 p.m. Monday evenings from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

The Ya Ya Yarners are meeting at the Albert L. Scott Library now! Do you knit or crochet? Would you like to learn how? If so, we have a group for you… the Ya Ya Yarners! We will teach you if you don’t know how. We will start you with one of two simple projects. We will supply the needles or hooks and yarn and a pattern. We also do community projects such as cityofalabaster.com

SAVE YOUR STORIES! : PRESERVING ORAL HISTORY March 14 at 6 p.m.

February 18th Council 7 pm

LIBRARY

mation 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.

March 4 at 10 a.m.

PowerPoint 2013: This class will cover the basics of creating a functional and beautiful presentation.

Join us as Mark Sims and Sarah Tackett present a workshop that will help families preserve and write down their family stories. This is a continuing class that runs through May on the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. Program takes place in the meeting room.

March 18 at 10 a.m.

Microsoft Word part 1: Understand the basic functions and commands that are available in Word March 25 at 10 a.m.

Microsoft Word part 2: This class will focus on formatting and editing within Word.

TAI CHI FOR HEALTH Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. starting March 6.

Join us as local instructor Rachel Hickman teaches a 9-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.

CAKE & CULTURE – 200 YEARS OF FORGOTTEN ALABAMA March 17 at 2 p.m.

Glenn Wills, author of the books Forgotten Alabama and More Forgotten Alabama, returns with his program about Alabama's forgotten and abandoned treasures. He has spent nearly the last ten years plying the back roads of Alabama seeking out the remnants of an earlier time. He has driven over 50,000 miles and been to all 67 counties multiple times. He has taken thousands of photographs of as many of these abandoned places as he can find. Glenn shares his story via a multimedia tour of the things we built, used and eventually left behind that still exist in the state. He is presently working on his third book, 200 Years of Forgotten Alabama, and has updated his program with new photos and information. The program runs around 45 minutes and is followed by questions from the audience. Refreshments provided by Albert L. Scott Friends of the Library. Program takes place in the meeting room.

LIBRARY BOOK GROUP

ABC & DS OF MEDICARE

March 21 at 7 p.m.

March 11 at 1 p.m.

Join us to discuss The Story of Arthur Truluv by Elizabeth Berg. For the past six

Karen Haiflich of the Medicare Infor-

CALENDAR months, Arthur Moses’ days have looked the same. He tends to his rose garden and to Gordon, his cat, then rides the bus to the cemetery to visit his beloved late wife for lunch. The last thing Arthur would imagine is for one unlikely encounter to utterly transform his life. Eighteen-year-old Maddy Harris is an introspective girl who visits the cemetery to escape the other kids at school. One afternoon she joins Arthur—a gesture that begins a surprising friendship between two lonely souls. Moved by Arthur’s kindness and devotion, Maddy gives him the nickname “Truluv.” As Arthur’s neighbor Lucille moves into their orbit, the unlikely trio band together and, through heartache and hardships, help one another rediscover their own potential to start anew. Program takes place in the meeting room.

LIBRARY BOARD MEETING March 26 at 6 p.m.

LIBRARY YOUTH EVENTS STORY TIMES: Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m.

Outreach Story Time at day care centers Second and Fourth Wednesdays at 3:30 p.m.

Sensory Story Time in the meeting room

invited to a special Youth Forum with the David Mathews Center for Civic Life. A visitor from the center will offer interactive, fun activities on civic engagement. Please sign up.

WONDER KIDS’ BOOK CLUB March 12 from 6 p.m.-7 p.m.

This month we’ll have cupcakes during a birthday party for author Virginia Hamilton. The library was awarded the 2018 Virginia Hamilton and Arnold Adoff Creative Outreach Grant to fund the club. Because March is Women’s History Month, we’ll explore the theme Flying High with Women’s History. We’ll read selections from Hamilton’s book Her Stories: African American Folktales, Fairy Tales, and True Tales as well as from companion books about flying. Kids will also try their hand at making airplanes. Those who missed last month’s session will receive a book to keep. Please sign up and gather in the meeting room. Kids age 6 and younger must be with an adult.

PETE THE CAT BOOK CLUB March 19 at 6 p.m.

What is Pete the Cat up to now? Find out when we explore the story Construction Destruction. Boys and girls age 5 and up can join in the fun of reading, crafting, and playing in the meeting room. Children who are 5 and 6 years old must be with an adult. Please sign up.

Fridays at 10:30 a.m.

Toddler Tales in the meeting room

AMERICAN GIRLS CLUB: MOLLY’S WORLD OF PLAY

LEGO® LEAGUE

March 22 at 4 p.m.

March 5 from 6 p.m.-6:45 p.m.

Girls age 7 and up can learn about the character Molly from the 1940s! Come with or without a doll to read, learn, and play old fashioned games. Please sign up. Meets in the meeting room.

Kids of all ages can come play with bricks of all sizes. We have the bricks, you bring the imagination. The fun is in the meeting room. Kids age 6 and younger must be with an adult.

HOMESCHOOL HAPPENING

PARKS AND REC

March 11 from 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

STAY INFORMED BY EMAIL

Students in grades 1 through 12 are

If you would like to receive emails from

Parks and Recreation regarding registrations and events, you can sign up by going to www.alabasterparks.org and scrolling down the page to the SIGN-UP link. The only required information is your name and email address. NOTE: We cannot accept Checks as a method of payment. Please be prepared to pay for any fees with Cash, Debit, Visa, Master Card, or Discover.

ADULT SOFTBALL REGISTRATION Walk-in Registration for teams (not individuals) will begin on March 1 and end on March 29 at the Parks and Recreation office located at Veterans Park – weekdays only from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. • On-Line Registration for teams (not individuals) will begin on March 1 at 8:00 a.m. and end on March 30 at 11:00 p.m. • 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 signing up for Wednesday/Sunday practices 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

VENDORS: ARTS AND CRAFTS VENDOR REGISTRATION FOR FALL FEST • On-Line Registration: Begins at 8:00 a.m. on March 4 and ends at 11:00 p.m. on March 22. Available at www.alabasterparks.org • Walk-in Registration: March 4 thru March 22 – weekdays only from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Alabaster Parks and Recreation office located at Veterans Park. NOTE: This is ‘early’ registration. There will be a second registration which will run from Sept. 3 thru Sept. 27. cityofalabaster.com

CALENDAR

March 5 at 10 a.m.

YOUTH BASEBALL / GIRL’S SOFTBALL

BISCUITS AND TEA WITH JIM N NICKS

• Parade of Teams will occur on Friday, March 15, at Veterans Park. 6:00 p.m – Alabaster Fire Dept. vs. Alabaster Police Dept. in a Softball game You won’t want to miss the excitement of this annual game! 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 16. • 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 for purchasing food and drinks.

March 8 at 9:15 a.m.

YOUTH SOCCER

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

Games will begin at Municipal Park on March 15. 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!

PAVILIONS FOR RENT

SENIOR CENTER

• You will receive a 15x15 booth. You must provide your own table, chairs and canopy. • Event Date: Fall Fest will occur on Saturday, Oct. 26, from 9:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Buck Creek Trail.

On-Line Pavilion Rentals – available at www.alabasterparks.org. Several of our City Parks offer pavilions for events such as picnics, family reunions and birthday parties. The best way to assure your event happens at the location of your choice is to reserve it early. 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. cityofalabaster.com

CELEBRATING FAT TUESDAY AND MARDI GRAS

BINGO WITH OASIS HOSPICE March 8 at 12 p.m.

step-on guide tour; and four hours of free time in downtown Gatlinburg! All dinners are included but lunches are on your own! Space is limited. Note: there is a lot of walking on this trip. Cost is $395/person for double occupancy or $535 for single occupancy. Sign-ups will begin on Tuesday, April 2.

GROUP FITNESS CLASSES GENTLE YOGA Tuesdays from 1:15-2:30 p.m.

GOODIES WITH SHELBY REHAB SELECT March 12 at 9:15 a.m.

BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS WITH SOUTHERN CARE HOSPICE March 13 at 10 a.m.

TECHNOLOGY CLASS WITH PATRICK

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

ARTHRITIS EXERCISE PROGRAM Wednesday from 9:30-10:30 a.m.

PENNY AUCTION WITH KINDRED AT HOME March 25 at 12 p.m.

FUN WITH SOUTHEAST HOSPICE

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

March 26 at 12 p.m.

ARTHRITIS & MORE

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

Wednesday from 1:00-2:00 p.m.

March 27 at 12 p.m.

This class is designed for those seeking to improve or maintain their mobility, muscle strength and functional ability. This class will include a variety of exercises working from head-to-toe while sitting and standing. $2/class.

NEW TRIP - 3 NIGHT / 4 DAY FALL TRIP TO PIGEON FORGE/ GATLINBURG. October 7-10, 2019

Don’t miss this amazing fall trip to the Smokey Mountains of Tennessee. Trip will include three nights lodging in Pigeon Forge; Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show; Smokey Mountain Opry Show; Titanic Museum and an Exclusive private dinner on the Titanic’s third deck “Secret Dining Room”; a visit to the Old Mill;

INTERMEDIATE CLASS LINE DANCING Thursday from 9:15 a.m.

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

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

shoes are not appropriate. Safety is a priority. Space is limited. $2/class.

welcome. Space is limited. $2/class.

BEGINNER CLASS BEGINNER LINE DANCING

GENTLE YOGA

Fridays from 9:30-10:20 a.m.

Thursday from 2:15-3:30 p.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. Space is limited. $2/class.

Thursday from 10:10-11 a.m.

For students new to line dancing. Several easy beginner dances will be taught in each class. Instruction will proceed at an easy pace and repetition will be emphasized. Appropriate supportive shoes should be worn such as tennis shoes, boots, and flats. High heels and backless

MOVIN’& GROOVIN

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY SPRING BOOK AND BAKE SALE April 5th, 5-7 PM & April 6th, 9 AM - 3 PM & April 7th, 1-3 PM SPRING? If I recall correctly, the groundhog, on his special day, predicted an early spring for a change. I wonder if he was correct. Some days feel like early summer and some days not so much! While Alabama and wacky weather are sometimes synonymous, we can be reasonably sure that by the time April arrives, we will see warmer days, and everyone will be more out and about. Things will be active at the Alabaster library too. April 5, 6 and 7 are the dates for the Friends of the Albert L. Scott Library Spring Book and Bake Sale. Even now, the Friends are sorting used books and making final plans for the event. Our successful semi-annual book sales yield significant money that we donate to the library to enhance its programming and overall effectiveness in our community. Recent sales have proved popular and we hope, with your help, to continue the trend. A good book sale is a win-win. Members of the community find wonderful books that can be added to their personal libraries at very low cost. Many readers love to “recycle” their reading material, donating about as many books as they purchase and maintaining a constant

supply of new books to read. Meanwhile, purchase of the gently used books that are new-to-you is an almost painless way to enhance library effectiveness. If you have not started your child’s collection of fun, educational books, the book sale is a wonderful opportunity to do so. SPRING CLEANING? As everyone switches from winter to spring, there is the urge to “clean.” Perhaps you might consider donating some books to help us help the library. Now, this week, is an ideal time for you to donate. While we appreciate donations of gently used recent fiction, non-fiction and children’s books anytime, the upcoming book sale requires inventory at this particular time. And, we need a little time to sort and arrange them for sale. In addition to books, we also accept and sell music CDs and books and movies on DVD. At the sale, hardback books are one dollar. Paperbacks and all children’s books are fifty cents. Movies on DVD are two dollars and CDs (both books and music) are $1.50. These prices are unbeatable! [Note: We cannot accept textbooks, encyclopedias, or cassette tapes as we have found no market for them.]

So, please! Look through your stacks to identify books you are willing to pass along to a good, new home. The success of a book sale is a direct function of the quality and variety of books offered. If you are typical, you have books that can provide hours of enjoyment to neighbors (or their children) in the community, and that you no longer need. This exchange of knowledge at very low cost – and that is going to benefit the library – is the essence of the Friends’ mission. Please help. Donations can be left with the library staff anytime the library is open. You should also make a note to attend the sale to see what treasures your neighbors have donated for your enjoyment. Hours will be: Fri, April 5, 5-7 p.m. (Members Only) Sat, April 6, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sun, April 7, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

The Friends of the Albert L. Scott Library, Inc. is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) corporation. All donations, including membership dues, are tax deductible donations. Regular annual membership is ten dollars per year and can be paid at the time of the sale. Thanks for your help. cityofalabaster.com

COUNCIL MINUTES

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

JANUARY 7, 2019, 7 PM Absent: Scott Brakefield (6)

Agenda Items: 1. Resolution 010719 Appointment of Ashley Hardee and Jeff Herren to the BZA Motion Passed Unanimously 2. Resolution 010719-A Authorizing the Mayor to Sign Agreement with Cummins Midsouth for Generator Maintenance Motion Passed Unanimously 3. Resolution 010719-B Authorizing the Purchase of Police Radios and Amendment of the FY2019 Budget Motion Passed Unanimously 4. Resolution 010719-C Authorizing the Purchase of Laserfiche Software and Amendment of the FY2019 Budget Motion Passed Unanimously 5. Resolution 010719-D A uthorizing Funding for CDA Budget Line Item for Future Development and Amendment of the FY2019 Budget Motion Passed Unanimously 6. Resolution 010719-E Authorizing Mayor to sign Agreement for LED Streetlight Project with Alabama Power Motion Passed Unanimously SAID MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:13 PM

JANUARY 22, 2019, 7 PM

Agenda Items: 1. Resolution 012219 Authorizing Mayor to Sign Agreement for LED Streetlight Project with Alabama Power Motion Passed Unanimously 2. Resolution 012219-A Accepting the Ownership and Maintenance of Updated Traffic Signals and associated Appurtenances at Thompson Road and Warrior Drive Motion Passed Unanimously Council President Brakefield opened the public hearing for Ordinance 190122-81, Amending sections of the City of Alabaster’s Zoning Ordinance requiring pre-zoning prior to annexation of property. He called for anyone who would speak in favor of the ordinance amendment. Hearing and seeing none, he called for anyone who would speak against the ordinance amendment. Hearing none and seeing none, he adjourned the hearing. 3. Ordinance 190122-81* Amending Various Sections of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Alabaster

Motion Passed Unanimously 4. Resolution 020419-A AHAB’s Recommendation to Proceed with Abatement Process on 572 Old Hwy 31 and Advertise for Public Hearing Motion Passed Unanimously 5. Resolution 020419-B AHAB’s Recommendation to Proceed with Abatement Process on 62 12th Ave SE and advertise for Public Hearing Motion Passed Unanimously 6. Resolution 020419-C AHAB’s Recommendation to Proceed with Abatement Process on 160 12th Ave SE and advertise for Public Hearing Motion Passed Unanimously 7. Resolution 012219-B Authorizing the Mayor to Sign Agreement for Workers Compensation Insurance Motion Passed Unanimously SAID MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:17 PM

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

FOR MORE ON THE CITY COUNCIL Visit www.cityofalabaster.com/161/City-Council

cityofalabaster.com

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

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

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

RUSSELL BEDSOLE, WARD 5 205-229-6021 bedsole@cityofalabaster.com SCOTT BRAKEFIELD, PRESIDENT, WARD 6 brakefield@cityofalabaster.com

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

KERRI PATE, WARD 7 965-8300 pate@cityofalabaster.com

GREG FARRELL, WARD 4 farrell@cityofalabaster.com

POSTAL PATRON

You can’t help a heart unless yours is in it.

A COMMUNITY BUILT ON HEART At Brookwood Baptist Health, we never forget that there’s more to care than medicine. There’s compassion. Attentiveness. And a healthy dose of kindness. Which is why when it comes to treating your heart, all of us are here to treat you well. See us at BrookwoodBaptistHealth.com/heart