August Issue Alabaster Connection 2013 by me2graphicsllc

The Official Publication of the City of Alabaster

Alabaster Connection

August 2013

Back to School Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great day to be a warrior!

Inside this issue... Annual Rescue Rodeo Heroes Run at the Promenade

The Alabaster YMCA is serious about Youth The AlabasterThrough YMCA is Afterschool serious aboutand Youth Development. Youth Development. Through Afterschool and Youth Sports programs, children develop leadership Sportssportsmanship, programs, children leadership skills, and develop the confidence to try skills, sportsmanship, and the confidence to new things all while making lifelong friends.try new things all while making lifelong friends. Afterschool Childcare Afterschool Childcare Serving Alabaster and Calera Schools Serving Alabaster and Caleradevelopment, Schools Program includes character Program includes character development, reading, homework, physical fitness, reading, homework, physical fitness, crafts, and swimming. crafts, and swimming. Contact Gwen Hatcher Contact Gwen Hatcher at ghatcher@ymcabham.org. at ghatcher@ymcabham.org.

Youth Youth Sports Sports

Soccer, and Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Volleyball. Volleyball. Soccer, Flag Flag Football Football and Registration August 10 10 Registration Deadline Deadline August Contact ContactTrenae Trenae Leonard Leonard at tleonard@ymcabham.org. at tleonard@ymcabham.org. Financial is available available Financial Assistance Assistance is Mission To put put Judeo-Christian Judeo-Christian principles that build healthy spirit, mind andand bodybody for all. Mission To principlesinto intopractice practicethrough throughprograms programs that build healthy spirit, mind for all. 2 cityofalabaster.com VisionWe We will will lead lead our community community to A United Way Partner. Vision tobecome becomethe thehealthiest healthiestininAmerica. America. A United Way Partner.

From the Mayor’s Desk... I hope everyone was able to enjoy spending time with family and friends during our relatively mild and wet summer. I can’t believe it is time to start another school year, but I am very excited for our students, faculty, and administrators as they begin their first year in the Alabaster City School System. There has been so much activity this summer preparing for “new and improved” ideas, equipment, facilities, etc.! It is a GREAT day to be a Warrior! I have had many productive conversations over the past few weeks regarding the recently passed sidewalk ordinance. So, I would like to expand on a couple of items which may not Marty Handlon have been clear in the media’s coverage. First, I want to assure Mayor, City of Alabaster you much research and discussion preceded the proposed ordinance. The outcome is an ordinance that I believe best protects taxpayer dollars and limits injury to any of our citizens. State law indicates repair and maintenance of a sidewalk is the responsibility of the property owner whose property abuts it. Moreover, existing neighborhood covenants require homeowners, or in some cases the Home Owner Association, to make necessary repairs to damaged sidewalks. However, the city can be liable in the event of an injury caused by a damaged sidewalk. State law indicates the municipality has a duty and obligation to keep its streets and sidewalks in a reasonable safe condition for use. But, the municipality cannot enforce needed repairs to a sidewalk on the property owner unless an ordinance is adopted to provide procedures. Spending your taxpayer dollars to repair the same area of sidewalk over and over due to repeated misuse or lack of maintenance, or on a liability claim, does not reflect good stewardship or sound financial management. The ordinance does include an appeal process for when property owners feel that a third party (utility, city, etc.) caused the damage to their sidewalk. Today’s litigious environment increases the probability of a lawsuit, as television commercials and other advertisements solicit personal injury clients. In an effort to protect your tax dollars and limit unnecessary lawsuits, this ordinance was passed at the July 1st City Council Meeting, and a copy of the ordinance is available on the city’s website. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call. Although this year’s wet weather has caused several delays, you may have noticed the new City Administration Building is nearing completion. Within the next 30-45 days, city departments (administrative, court, and building services) will be moving into the new building located next to the Senior Citizen’s Center in old Siluria. The new address will be 1953 Municipal Way. We will also house the Alabaster City Board Of Education in this new facility. We are working diligently to plan a smooth and systematic transition, but as with any move, unexpected issues may arise. Please keep this in mind in the coming weeks, and we ask for your patience and forgiveness if you experience any delay in our administrative services during this time. Thank you for all the nominations we are receiving for our monthly spotlight on an Alabaster business. And, I encourage our citizens to send in nominations for a business they believe deserves to be in the spotlight. Congratulations to this month’s feature business, Dr. Randall Pitts at Alabama Vision Center! As you are purchasing school clothes and supplies, please remember to shop Alabaster first! Marty

Official Publication of the City of Alabaster Alabaster Connection is published monthly and it is delivered to citizens of the City of Alabaster Editorial Board The Public Relations Committee of the Alabaster City Council Committee Chair Councilwoman Sophie Martin Councilman Rick Walters Councilman Stacy Rakeshaw Editor Luke Camara, me2graphics, LLC Contributors Shana Camara Becky Beall Heather Leavell Asha Ashley We welcome your comments and suggestions. Call 447-2214 or email luke@me2graphics.com

To advertise call 447-2214

To view frequently asked questions about the new

Solicitors Ordinance passed by the City Council please visit: Cover Photo: Hope Karvenon, Grant Hopkins, Van Khong, Carter Mandy, Shep Brakefield.

www.cityofalabaster.com/peddlerssolicitors-ordinance-faq/

cityofalabaster.com 3

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

Scott Brakefield, Ward 6 City Council President

Greetings. The dog days of August are upon us. The beginning of school is right around the corner and for those of us with children that means back to school shopping. Please make sure to shop Alabaster first. It also marks the beginning of many school activities. There are a number of school activities the children of Alabaster will participate in that will impact their lives for a long period of time. As the THS Band has conducted fundraising events, I have had the opportunity to hear how the Band Program at THS, lead by Mr. Bubbett, has had an impact on students’ lives well after they finished high school. For me, athletics was the conduit for life lessons during my time at THS. It was also a time that, outside of my parents, I was able to witness adults investing in me and caring about my progress as an individual. Now as I am an adult, and a father, I get to witness this again in our community. Last year I witnessed Patrick Davis and the THS Basketball team mentor children as they read at one of our elementary schools. I was recently excited to learn that THS Baseball Coach Pat Hamrick was awarded the AHSAA Making a Difference Award which is presented by the State’s Athletics Directors and Coaches Associations. These are just a few examples of the many different individuals that invest in our children on a daily basis. It is also another reminder to me that our school system will be a great one. It’s a great day to be a Warrior!

Sophie Martin, Ward 1

It is with great enthusiasm that we officially begin the 2013-2014 school year as the Alabaster City School System. Major improvements are already noticeable as you walk through the front doors of any of the schools in our city. There are noticeable visual differences such as landscaping and interior enhancements, but there is also a new sense of pride and ownership in what we stand for and who we want to be as a school system. I want to sincerely thank

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Superintendent, Dr. Wayne Vickers, along with the Alabaster City School Board, for their hard work and dedication to finalizing the official separation from the county and for making key decisions that are already having a positive effect throughout our school system. Our school board members have dedicated many hours to weekly board meetings, work sessions, and required training by the State. Their time, dedication, and expertise are greatly appreciated. It is an exciting time for our teachers, administrators, and most of all, our children. Please plan on attending the upcoming citywide event “Celebrate Alabaster City Schools” on Saturday, August 17 at 10 a.m. at Veteran’s Park. We have plenty to celebrate now and for what the future holds for current and future Alabaster residents! On a different issue, the drive over the railroad tracks at Hwy 31 and 119 is noticeably smoother. Thank you to all the parties involved who helped get this process started and for making it a safer situation for the drivers who cross at this area. If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at 358-8742 or at martin@cityofalabaster.com.

Bob Hicks, Ward 2

The opening of the first school year of Alabaster City Schools is but a few weeks away. The anticipation and excitement grow daily, with changes and improvements swirling around us. As the dawning of a new day approaches, I would briefly like to look backward for one second. My sincere thanks goes out to the Shelby County Board of Education, under whose leadership both of my sons received high school diplomas and went on to achieve college degrees. The scope of the Board’s responsibility is enormous, and the work they do is heroic. I wish them God’s blessings and good fortune as they continue educating young people moving forward. I know the Alabaster City Schools will do the same outstanding work. Join me in supporting Dr. Vickers and the school board. Alabaster’s recycling program is starting to pick up speed. I would personally ask you, if you are not already, to please implement aluminum, paper and plastic recycling through the bins provided to you. We are shepherds of our natural resources and by reusing what we have there is less of a drain on such thing as trees - without whose valuable contribution to the natural order of life, we would not have oxygen. Recycling also reduces what flows into our landfills, which reduces the amount of space required for trash. Please consider stepping up to the plate for the sake of our environment and those to whom we will leave it. Grace and peace.

Stacy Rakestraw, Ward 3

Happy Dog Days of Summer! August 2013 is upon us and within weeks the new Alabaster City schools will open their doors for the first time. Our oldest, Jake, will be in the first graduating class of the ACS. This is a very exciting time in our community and a little bittersweet for our family. In addition to this, we are close to getting our beautification board back up and running. Increasing community involvement, with respect to keeping Alabaster beautiful, is an essential part of our city’s appeal and growth. Your response and participation this spring, to keep Alabaster beautiful was outstanding. We are planning to schedule a meeting in August. As soon as a date is confirmed, we will get the word out well in advance for those who want to attend. If you are interested in serving on the board, please contact me at rakestraw@cityofalabaster.com. Whether it is City Council or Neighborhood Association meetings, I want to thank residents in Ward 3 for being involved this past year and keeping in contact with me. Your participation is so important to our community, and serving others is a great way of reaching out to help and meet others.

Rick Walters, Ward 4

Even though we had an enormous amount of rain in July, progress continues on our Alabaster Administration building. Hopefully the Alabaster City School Board of Education will be able to move into the Administration building before the new school year. Until they do, the ASCBOE and Superintendent Vickers will continue working to have our facilities, teachers, and staff ready for August 19th. So far they have approved over $185,000 in repairs and improvements. The Alabaster Water Board has also been busy this summer repairing leaks and broken water mains. These men and women sometimes work well into the night making repairs. When a line breaks they cannot just go home at the end of their shift. Considering we only have about 24 employees to cover over 30 square miles of service lines, it is so amazing that they now have over 1,120 days with no lost time due to accidents. If you have a problem with service please call 663-6156. If you would like to address the Board, we now meet on the first Tuesday of each month at the Annex. Once the new Administration building is ready, we will meet there. Thank you for your continued patience as several paving projects are still under way. Feel free to call me if you have a question or concern. Keep in Touch!

Russell Bedsole, Ward 5

Communication involves a sender transmitting information and a receiver processing the information that has been sent. Effective communication is the ability of the receiver to accurately receive and process the information transmitted by the sender. As we all know, the latter can be a little trickier at times. The most wellintended messages can be so misunderstood. As our city continues to grow and change, the needs of all of us who call Alabaster home continue to grow and change as well. So it is often asked, “What is the best way to let City Hall know I have a problem or concern?” For anyone who wishes to report any non-emergency issues to City Hall, please visit www. cityofalabaster.com and click on the “Report a Concern” tab. The “Report a Concern” tab has proven to be an excellent example of effective communication. Your concern will not only be received, but it will be effectively processed, assigned to the appropriate department, and then tracked by administration staff. Testimonies are continuously heard from our citizens who have submitted a concern late in the evening and awakened to see one of our city workers addressing the issue in mere hours. Give me your feedback regarding the use of this service. Send me an email at bedsole@cityofalabaster.com or send me a tweet @ RussellBedsole. Thanks to the hard work of all our employees in making our city great!

Tommy Ryals, Ward 7

We continue to be asked about Alabaster City limits, especially with the school separation. I know it’s confusing but keep in mind that your address does not necessarily reflect what city you live in; it reflects the zip code assigned to you by the US Postal Service. The zip codes are assigned by postal routes out of various post offices. Alabaster has several zip codes within its city limits, not just 35007. Maylene, for example, is 35114, but most of Maylene is within the city limits of Alabaster. If you recall, parts of Alabaster had a 35115 zip code because its mail was delivered out of Montevallo. In 2004, the city petitioned the Postal Service to change that. The city sent out cards to the Alabaster 35115 residents and they VOTED to change to 35007. In 2014, the city has another opportunity to request that the Postal Service send out cards for a vote of the Maylene residents to see if they want to be 35114 or 35007. Look for it in a mailbox near you. cityofalabaster.com 5

h app e n i n g s

back to school at Alabaster City Schools It’s a great day to be a Warrior!” That has become the end-of-announcements’ slogan among the Alabaster City Schools (ACS), and a great indicator of the things are transpiring this school year as the district begins its first year as its own district. New facility upgrades, technological advancements, and curriculum enhancements have opened windows of opportunities and tremendously raised the ceiling of learning. “I think I am most excited about the attention each school is receiving for its individual needs,” said Katie Zielinski, Thompson Middle School principal. “The Alabaster Central Office staff, with the support of our Board of Education, has investigated each school’s needs from facilities to instruction.” Zielinski said that the Instruction and Curriculum Office is working to eliminate textbook shortages and making sure that instructional supplies are in place. During the summer, beautification projects were underway across the district. Everything from landscaping to deep cleaning projects was done to provide the students with a healthier learning 6 cityofalabaster.com

environment. Technology has become interwoven in the fabric of our everyday lives and what better way to use it than as an educational tool? With more money coming in for the district, the schools’ technology is getting much needed upgrades. “We were able to add Wi-Fi to the elementary school at the end of last year,” said Brent Byars, Creek View Elementary School principal. “Teachers have the best materials and can provide students with college and career readiness, an opportunity for growth, and an opportunity for learning.” The ease of access to academic knowledge is only a grasp away for students. “This means that as a school, we need to work to provide them with the newest technology opportunities,” said Shannon Rose, Thompson Sixth Grade Center assistant principal. In congruence with technology enhancements, ACS educators are using a cross-curricular approach to emphasize the implementation of the Common Core Curriculum. “This utilizes project based learning across all content areas with one unified focus,” said Rose. “We believe that this will help our students learn the necessary collaboration and communication skills that will help prepare them to be more successful….”

upsurges with motive to hinder progress are EXPECTED, but how the ACS deals with these issues will be the districts’ defining moments. “This is what I try to tell my students,” Steele said. “You can’t always control the situation, but you can choose your attitude.”

Fall School Highlights TIS: Wynn Brakefield and Georgie O’Neal ready for the first day of class.

ACS may be improving in different aspects, but one thing remains true to the education system. The staff is in place solely for the growth and nourishment of the “whole” student. “Between the principals, we are all on the same page,” Brent Byars said excitedly. “When our kindergartner comes in, we’re building a 13-year relationship… We’re building Warriors for life!” Leadership, character building, and academia will still be among the top priorities as ACS begins its journey as its own self-governing district. “I told my staff during this process that many things will change, but our values and commitments WILL NOT change,” expressed Daniel Steele, Thompson High School principal. Of course, ACS did not achieve this amount of success this quickly without assistance. It was, and will continue to be, a community effort. “It’s like we’ve worked together for years and not just a few months,” Byars said about the growing relationship between the school officials and local support. “Our city as a whole is so supportive and they want us to be successful. Everyone wants to see our schools succeed.” Steele also spoke proudly and with much appreciation about how the community of Alabaster has taken personal ownership in the schools. Transitioning from the Shelby County District to Alabaster City Schools gives opportunity for the unique concept of adding “personality.” From the teaching styles to school pride, every new decision will create a defining moment, giving ACS its own identity. “Since we are a smaller district now, it’s our hope that our parental and community support will continually increase with a stronger sense of pride of us being an independent school district,” said Ke’Andrea Jones, Thompson Intermediate School principal. With all new opportunities, come new challenges. Although ACS has not come across any significant difficulties, it has prepared itself for anything that may arise. “There may be some obstacles we come across; some holes we need to fill,” Steele confidently said. “But we have a great Board and I have no doubt they will be able to rise to the challenges.” Complications and “growing pains” and any

5th Grade trip to Washington D.C. in May 4th Grade 3 day 4-H Camp throughout the year Back-to-School Jamfest September 6th @ 3:15 p.m. Annual Cookie Dough Sale September 13th - October 2nd

TSGC:

Schedule Pick-Up August 1st 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. PTO Open House at the end of August Back-to-School dance (TBA)

TMS:

Homecoming September 26th Fall Carnival (TBA)

THS:

Homecoming September 27th against Shades Valley High

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Happ e n i n g s

Colonial Promenade’s Target Store to Host National Night Out

Did you ever think it would be a good idea to have a place where children could meet local law enforcement and area rescue responders in case they were ever forced into an emergency situation? By having advanced exposure to such, it would greatly reduce the anxiety associated with an emergency where children were involved. Well, retail giant Target, located in the Colonial Promenade, will offer the opportunity for Alabaster residents and visitors to come out and meet local first responder agencies on Tuesday, August 6 from 6–8 p.m. During this annual event, National Night

Out, the Alabaster Target will section off a portion of their parking lot and dedicate it to the evening event. The event is, by design, created to introduce folks to local agencies and companies that serve the community such as the Pelham, Helena and Alabaster police departments, the FBI, the fire department, the Shelby County Sheriff ’s Department, and other rescue groups. In addition to these groups, families can also meet folks from places like the local YMCA, the Humane Society and much more! The event features activities for families and children including free food, games and entertainment. Come out and introduce your family to local firemen and policemen, and let them see the firetrucks, etc. up close and personal. It’s a fun night for everyone! For more information about the Alabaster Target National Night Out, call Kevin Peters (coordinator) at 564-2608.

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Tax Holiday

Get ready to Shop Alabaster! Beginning at 12:01 a.m. (CST) on Friday August 2, 2013, and ending at twelve midnight on Sunday August 4, 2013, your eligible purchases will be tax free. The State of Alabama, Shelby County and the City of Alabaster will all be participating in the 6th annual Sales Tax Holiday. For shoppers in Alabaster this means a savings of 9% on select purchases. There are four categories: clothes, computers, school supplies and books. For clothing, the general rule is that the eligible item must be $100 or less per item and is an item that is “human wearing apparel suitable for general use”. This includes belts, shoes, jeans, jackets, pants, shorts, shirts, and school uniforms. But it does not include separate belt buckles or eyewear. For computers items it covers, computers, computer software, and school computer supplies. As well as a single purchase with a sales price of $750 or less, according to the state’s quick reference sheet. This category can get a little confusing so be sure to check with your retailer before you purchase but generally this covers desktops, laptops, and any computer packages. This also covers printers, and printer supplies such as paper and ink. School supply purchases are exempt if they are listed and if the item is $50 or less. The list covers commonly used items such as binders, crayons, erasers, folders, glue and book bags. This category also covers school art supplies. The complete list of exempt items are as follows: clay and glazes, paints (acrylic, tempera & oil), paint brushes for artwork, sketch and drawing pads, and watercolors. The final category is books. According to the quick reference sheet books that are $30 or less are exempt per book. This is the broadest category. The state declares that a book is, “a set of printed sheets bound together and published in a volume with an ISBN number.” This excludes magazines, newspapers, and periodicals. This annual weekend is typically associated with back to school purchases of school supplies, computers, and clothing, but it also extends to adults and babies. For example diapers and neckties are all eligible items under the clothing exemption. For a complete list of exempt items please visit www.revenue.alabama.gov/salestax/SalesTaxHol.cfm

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City Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged)

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

A regular meeting of the Alabaster City Council was held in the Municipal Annex on Monday, June 17, 2013, at 7:00 p.m. Present: Bob Hicks, Rick Walters, Tommy Ryals, Russell Bedsole Absent: Scott Brakefield, Stacy Rakestraw AGENDA ITEMS 1. Ordinance 13-008 Peddlers/Solicitors Ordinance Council Member Hicks made a motion for immediate consideration of Ordinance 13-008. Council Member Ryals seconded. Motion passed Unanimously Council Member Hicks briefly explained elements of this amended ordinance specifically how it relates to non-profit vs. for profit entities and how an individual soliciting and/or peddling goods or services must have appropriate city-issued certificate and that residents can place a no soliciting sign on their premises to prohibit covered entities from approaching residence. No further discussion or comments. Council Member Hicks made a motion to approve Ordi-

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nance 13-008. Council Member Walters seconded. Motion passed Unanimously Ordinance 13-009 Amending Ward lines to include South Forty/Amazing Grace Council Member Walters made a motion for immediate consideration of Ordinance 13-009. Council Member Bedsole seconded. Motion passed Unanimously Council Member Walters made a motion to approve Ordinance 13-009. Council Member Ryals seconded. Motion passed Unanimously Resolution 061713 YMCA Facility Use Agreement for Public Safety Personnel Council Member Ryals made a motion to approve Resolution 061713. Council Member Hicks seconded. Motion passed Unanimously Resolution 061713-A Waiving vendor fees for Celebrate America event Council Member Bedsole made a motion to approve Resolution 061713-A. Council Member Walters seconded. Motion passed Unanimously Resolution 061713-B Cool Tech LLC roof remediation agreement for Fire station 2 & 3 Council Member Bedsole made a motion to approve Resolution 061713-B. Council Member Ryals seconded. Motion passed Unanimously

Meeting adjourned at 7:22 P.M. A regular meeting of the Alabaster City Council was held in the Municipal Annex on Monday, July 01, 2013, at 7:00 P.M. Present: Scott Brakefield, Sophie Martin, Bob Hicks, Rick Walters, Tommy Ryals, Stacy Rakestraw, Russell Bedsole AGENDA ITEMS 1. Ordinance 13-007 Sidewalk Repairs and Maintenance Council Member Bedsole made a motion to approve Ordinance 13-007. Council Member Rakestraw seconded. Council President Brakefield opened up floor for comments from audience. Mr. Charles Taylor, Ms. Barbara Corley, Mr. Jim Howard and Ms. Marie Jordan all spoke against said ordinance with questions ranging from insurance requirements, responsibility of repairs, pre-existing conditions, accountability to mitigate future damages. Council Member Bedsole responded focusing on the appeals process that is to be in place within proposed ordinance and that much research went into this proposed legislation trying to create a balance. Council Member Martin agreed with Mr. Bedsole’s comments and furthermore indicated this would protect taxpayer interests as a whole. Council Member Walters indicated that this notion of joint liability already exists within Alabama State Code and this is simply an effort to protect tax dollars. Council Member Ryals shared the manner in which the property owner can petition council and state why the re-

Happ e n i n g s

pair expenses should be borne by the City instead of property owner. Council Member Rakestraw suggested that residents stay aware of those who may park on these improvements and to keep proof of damages. Being no further comments, Council President Brakefield closed comment period. Motion passed Unanimously 2. Resolution 070113 Extending deadline to close development agreement Council Member Walters made a motion to approve Resolution 070113. Council Member Ryals seconded. Motion passed Unanimously 3. Motion to approve 032 Club Liquor – Class 2 Private license for Alabaster Courtyard LLC Council Member Martin made a motion to approve 032 Club Liquor – Class 2 Private license for Alabaster Courtyard LLC. Council Member Hicks seconded. Motion passed Unanimously Meeting adjourned at 7:51 P.M.

Annual Rescue Rodeo

Genia Blankenship, pastor’s wife at Amazing Grace Worship Center, knows that they have a good thing going with their fourth annual Rescue 1 Rodeo. The purpose of the Rodeo is to raise funds for Rescue 1, an organization that combats human trafficking. “We just believe at Amazing Grace Worship Center that children are very close to God’s heart. And injustice, like human trafficking, is an abomination in His eyes,” she shared. This year’s event is being held at Ray’s Arena Hwy 191 in Jemison, AL on August 23 and 24th. Gates open at 6 p.m. with the rodeo beginning at 8 p.m. “It is a Professional Cowboy Association sanctioned event. There will be calf roping, barrel racing, bull riding, and steer dressing,” Blankenship said. There will also

A cowboy competing in last years’ calf roping competition.

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Pastor Keven and Genia Blankenship along with Rescue 1 founders, Daniel & Lacy Tolar at last year’s rodeo.

be vendors on site including the typical fair foods like cotton candy and homemade ice cream. There will also be inflatables for the children. “It is a great family event with over 3,000 in attendance last year,” Blankenship said. This annual event started with a simple request from a fellow church member. “We have a lady in our church and she does professional barrel racing. She told me that she would love to sometime do a barrel race if we wanted to generate money for something. I just kind of put it aside until I heard about Rescue 1. I went back to her and said, ‘I got something that you could put your talent to use with’,” Blankenship said. That first year they donated over $5,000.00 to Rescue 1. “Last year,” she said, “we were able to give them over $25,000.00.” She went on to add an amazing twist to this year’s event. “This year we had a local business that has promise to match dollar for dollar up to $25,000.00,” exclaimed Blankenship. The funds raised are used by Rescue 1 to provide housing, food, and clothing to children - some as young as three - that A contestant from last year’s event are rescued out of a human sex barrel racing. trafficking situation. Rescue 1 is currently trying to set up a Home of Refuge here in the states to help young children that are rescued in America. While most of the rescues happen in Thailand and Laos, it does not mean we cannot be involved stateside. “I just believe that not every one of us common people can go and physically rescue a child in danger. But we can support those that do go.” Blankenship sums up her role between those who go and those who do the sending. “I am a bridge in other words,” she said. To find out more information visit www.amazinggracewc. org or www.rescue1mission.com

Heroes Run Comes to Alabaster Promenade

The moment a family receives their child’s terminal diagnosis, suddenly nothing else matters. Every second together becomes even more precious than before. The Wings of Hope Pediatric Foundation provides families with emotional and spiritual support, meals, house cleaning, lawn care, and when necessary, financial assistance with paying bills. This gives families more of an opportunity to focus on their child and the time they have together, because every day they have together is a gift. The first foundation in Alabama created solely for terminally ill pediatric patients, The Wings of Hope is a

friendly activities (face painting, balloon animals). All proceeds from the race benefit The Wings of Hope Pediatric Foundation. Buffalo Wild Wings will give 20% of their proceeds from 11am to 6 pm to the Wings of Hope. For more information visit www.wingsofhopepediatricfoundation.com/

“Every second together becomes even more precious than before.“

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group of compassionate qualified, caring volunteers. No one at The Wings of Hope is a paid employee. Every dollar donated goes directly to relieving families of day-today menial tasks and to giving them a few more priceless memories to hold on to forever. Join The Wings of Hope August 17, 2013, at the Propst Promenade for the Heroes Run - a 5k with obstacles sponsored by the Alabaster Fire and Police Department. There will also be a 1 mile fun run/walk. The Run starts and finishes at Buffalo Wild Wings. Packet pick-up begins at 7 a.m. The 5k race will start in waves at 8:00 a.m., 8:30 a.m. and 9 a.m.; the fun run will begin at 9:15 a.m. Stick around after the race and listen to the Groove Daddys, eat lunch at Buffalo Wild Wings, and join in the family

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August 5 City Council Meeting, 7 p.m.(A) 6 Water Board, 7 p.m. (A) 12 Alabaster City BOE Meeting, 7 p.m. (A) 13 Housing and Abatement, 5 p.m. (A) 14 Municipal Court, 9 a.m. & 2 p.m. (A) 19 City Council Meeting, 7 p.m. (A) 26 Board of Zoning Adjustments, 6:30 (A) 27 Planning and Zoning Board, 7 p.m. (A) 28 Municipal Court, 9 a.m. & 2 p.m. (A) Key: (A)=Annex; (SC)=Senior Center View full calendar, agendas and resolutions at www.cityofalabaster.com

Recycling COllection Schedule Red -August 1st-3rd, 11th-17th, 25th-31st Blue - August 4th-10th, 18th-24th

Day Trip to LaGrange, Georgia Thursday, October 10 Bringing Ancient History to Life. The Explorations in Antiquity Center is a living museum of life in ancient Biblical times. Through archeological replicas, Biblical meal presentation lectures, and other personal experience, ancient Biblical life becomes real today. We will also visit the Hills and Dales Estates. The property has been lovingly preserved by two generations of the Callaway family. Cost is $75 for the first 30 Alabaster Senior residents, and $85 for all other Shelby County Seniors. Sign up today! AARP - Driver Safety Program Tuesday, August 13, 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. This is a 6 hour classroom refresher that can help the effects of aging on your driving and how you can adjust your driving. Cost is $12.00 for AARP members and $14.00 for AARP nonmembers. Bring your own lunch. Make checks payable to AARP.

Thompson Wrestling and Alabaster Youth Wrestling Association are proud to present: IMPACT ALABASTER “One Warrior at a Time” Saturday, August 24, 1:00 PM until Warrior Wrestling Complex (behind Southeastern Pond Management). Impacting our community in the most positive way, through our up and coming youth, is our mission. Come join us for a celebration of all that is good in our community. Food, live music, dunking booth, obstacle course. Kids are welcome! Free to all!

NEW Book Club Friday, August 23 at 10 a.m. Join us as we will be reading Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn, a New York Times top 10 best seller for the past couple of months. We will meet every 4th Friday to discuss the book and introduce a new book.

Senior Center

Lunch Cruise on the Hariott II in Montgomery Wednesday, October 2 Join us as we enjoy a relaxing cruise on Montgomery’s greatest downtown attraction, the Harriott II riverboat. We will enjoy a light lunch and a one hour cruise down the Alabama River. Cost is $20 to reserve your spot. This cost includes transportation to the boat, admission on the boat and your lunch. Early sign up needed in order to purchase tickets in advance. Space is limited. Sign up today.

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. Day Trip to IKEA in Atlanta Tuesday, September 17 Join us as we travel to Atlanta, Georgia to visit the IKEA store. Two floors of furniture and accessories await you. This icon of Scandinavian décor features a full floor of decoration accessories such as mirrors, baskets, candles, kitchenware, toys and linens. Fully furnished vignettes offer ideas about how to organize and furnish any home and make it more livable. IKEA is an excursion you won’t want to miss. Cost is $35 for the first 30 Alabaster Senior residents, and $45 for all other Shelby County Seniors. Sign up today! 12 cityofalabaster.com

Apple Picking and Lunch Thursday, August 15 We will travel to Jemison to a u-pick apple orchard. ($12 for an 8 quart basket.) We will eat lunch at Cracker Barrel. Bring $10 – $12 for lunch. Space is limited. $1 reserves your spot.

Gardening with Betty August 20, 9:30 a.m. We meet every 3rd Tuesday of each month. The August 20th class will focus on learning how to build an herb bed. $5 per class, and includes all supplies. Must sign up ahead of time. Drumming Program Tuesday, August 6, 10:00 a.m. No experience necessary but the benefits are endless. The benefits of drumming: improve your mood, increase circulation, and improve focus; low impact exercise and creativity. No charge. Space is limited. Sign ups are required.

Free Blood Pressure Checks Tuesday, August 13 at 9:30 a.m. Provided by Comfort Care Hospice. Zumba Gold Toning Fridays, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Join us for a dynamic class using lightweight resistance training. This class can help participants prevent age-related bone loss, increase muscle strength and definition, decrease body fat and improve mobility, posture, coordination and cognition. $2 donation encouraged. 6 week Conversational Spanish Class Monday, September 9 - October 14, 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. The last class we will take an outing to a local Mexican restaurant and grocery store. The class will cover basic conversational Spanish and vocabulary. Space is limited and cost is $15 for the 6 week class. Sign ups begin August 1. You won’t want to miss all the other activities at the Senior Center... Men’s Social Group, 1st Monday of each month 9 a.m. Timeless Treasures (singing),–Mondays, 10 a.m. Wii Bowling, Tuesdays, 12 p.m. Rook, Wednesdays, 9 a.m. Rummikub, Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. Zumba Gold (exercise), Wednesdays, 1 p.m. Beginner/Inter Line dancing, Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. Beginner Line Dancing, Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Bridge, Thursdays, 12-3 p.m. Tempo exercise, Fridays, 10 a.m. Zumba Gold Toning, Fridays 1-2 p.m.

library

The Albert L. Scott Library is located at 100 9th Street N.W., Alabaster. Hours of operation are: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday - 9 a.m.-7:50 p.m. Wednesday - 10 a.m.-5:50 p.m. Friday - 9 a.m.-5:50 p.m. Saturday - 10 a.m.-4:50 p.m. Sunday - 1-4:50 p.m. If you would like more information concerning programs, please contact the Library at 664-6822.

Be a Friend!

The Friends is a group of dedicated booklovers that wants everyone to know the benefits the library offers and how members can increase the library’s effectiveness. We have occasional fundraisers such as semi-annual book sales and promotions in cooperation with local merchants to raise funds for special books and activities for all ages. These

include the Summer Reading Program and the Cake and Culture Program. We also maintain several areas at the library where books can be purchased at bargain prices. These are books that have been donated, so here’s also an option for those books you no longer want in your private library. For as little as $10 a year you can be a Friend and support the library. There are several levels of membership, and always opportunities for a few hours of volunteering. Be a Friend! Application forms are available at the Library or at www.cityofalabaster.com

Adult Events

Adult Computer Classes Call or come by to sign up. 664-6822. Wednesday, August 7, 10:00 a.m. – Microsoft Excel Pt. 1 Wednesday, August 21, 10:00 a.m. – Microsoft Excel Pt. 2 Library Book Group Thursday, August 15, 2013 at 7 p.m. Join us in our discussion of Man in the Blue Moon by Michael Morris. Single mother Ella Wallace fights to keep a banker from buying the Florida land that has been in her family for generations when a mysterious stranger shows up and convinces Ella he can help her, until his past comes to light. Program takes place in the meeting room.

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Library events continued... Couponing Class Saturday, August 10, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Join us as Staci Machado teaches the basics of couponing to maximize your savings and stretch your household budget. Call or come by to sign up. 6646822.

youth Events

Cool Programs to Beat the August Heat Story Times: Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m. Tunes & Tales for all ages in the meeting room; Children six years old and younger must be with an adult Fridays, 10:30 a.m. Toddler Tales in the meeting room; Children must be with an adult Lego League Tuesdays, 4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. In the meeting room; Program is for all ages but children six years old and younger must be with an adult

turn 5 before August 1, 2013. This is a six week program with one hour sessions on Tuesday nights beginning Sept. 3. There will be a parent meeting on August 27 at 6 p.m. Location TBA. ADULT SOFTBALL July 8 through August 9 Registration will be available on-line beginning at 8 a.m. on July 22 and ending at 5 p.m. on August 9. You can register in person at the Depot between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., weekdays only from July 22 thru August 9. Two leagues will be offered: Men’s, and Coed. Registration is for teams (not individuals). For more information, please contact Morgan Lawley at 664-6840 or mnlawley@cityofalabaster.com. FALL BASEBALL August 12 through August 23 Registration should be available on-line beginning August 12 at 8:00 am and ending August 23 at 5:00 p.m. You can register in person at the Depot between 8:00 am and 5:00 p.m., weekdays only from August 12 thru August 23. Fall Baseball is available for boys ages 4 thru 12 (age as of April 30, 2014). Cost will be $80 (plus $10 for non-residents). Cash, Visa, MasterCard accepted. NO Checks! The program will run for approximately six weeks beginning on Sept. 10. FALL SOCCER Soccer Evaluations – All participants should show up for

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. GIRL’S SOFTBALL July 29 through August 9 Fall registration, which began on July 29, should be available on-line thru August 9 at 5:00 p.m. You can register in person at the Depot between 8 am and 5 p.m, weekdays only thru August 9. Girl’s Softball is available for ages 5 thru 14. Cost will be $80 (plus $10 for non-residents). Cash, Visa, MasterCard accepted. NO Checks! For more information, please contact Morgan Lawley at 664-6840 or mnlawley@cityofalabaster.com. START SMART SOCCER Monday, August 5, 8:00 a.m. Registration will begin at 8:00 am on Monday, August 5. It is limited to the first 20 children that register. Registration will conclude on August 16, OR once all 20 spots are filled – whichever occurs first. Start Smart Soccer is available for ages 3 and 4. Children have to be 3 before August 1, 2013. Children cannot 14 cityofalabaster.com

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evaluations at Municipal Park on the 3 acre field. Soccer Practice begins on Thursday, August 15. • U6 – Aug. 1 (Thurs.) at 7:00 p.m. • U8 – Aug. 2 (Fri.) at 7:00 p.m. • U9 Girls – Aug. 5 (Mon.) at 6:00 p.m. • U10 Girls – Aug. 5 (Mon.) at 7:30 p.m. • U9 Boys – Aug. 6 (Tues.) at 6:00 p.m. • U10 Boys – Aug. 6 (Tues.) at 7:30 p.m. CHEER CAMP August 5 thru August 9, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Cheer Camp, which is mandatory for all cheerleaders, will be located in the Thompson High School Gym. Cheer Camp will take place August 5 thru August 9 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Cheer Camp concludes with “Show Off Night” on August 9 where the girls will perform in front of their parents. FOOTBALL Monday, August 5 Mandatory practice begins on Monday, August 5, in full pads at Buck Creek Park. Movies in the Park All movies are FREE at Veterans Park and they start around 8:00 p.m. Please bring your chairs and blankets plus your snacks and drinks for a full evening of fun.

August 9th | Happy Feet Two (PG-100 minutes) This will be the last movie shown until next summer. PAVILIONS FOR RENT Outdoor Rental Facilities: Several of our City Parks offer pavilions for rental use. The best way to make sure your event happens at the location of your choice is to contact Parks & Recreation before our books are filled with reservations. Pavilions are available for use by permit only. There is a $40 rental fee and an additional refundable $40 deposit which must be paid before your reservation is complete.

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In Alabaster on Main Street at 128 1st Street South (HWY 31) No representation is made that the quality of the legal services performed is greater than the legal services performed by other lawyers.

Around Town

technology that provides an added level of treatment for customers by filtering out particles as small as viruses. She was also pleased to find that the Board had such a clear and effective goal. “The Alabaster Water Board’s goal is to efficiently provide a safe, reliable and high quality water supply that is economical,” Koon explained. She plans to continue the aggressive continual education programs for employees and provide additional learning opportunities. To find out more about the Alabaster Water Board visit www.alabasterwater.com

Water Board Manager Laura Koon inside the Board’s state of the art treatment plant.

Meet the New Water Board Manager Alabaster Water Board is pleased to introduce to the community Laura Koon as the new Manager of the Alabaster Water Board. Laura comes to Alabaster by way of the City of Auburn where she was the Water Resource Management Director for approximately 5 years. Previously she worked for the City of Destin, Florida for six years and before that in the private sector with two different firms that specialized in water management. She holds a Bachelor degree in Civil Engineering and Master of Science degree in Civil/Environmental Engineering from Auburn University As a native of Auburn it was quite a move for Koon but one that she does not regret making. “Working in Alabaster has been great these past few weeks. The people I have met in Alabaster and the staff employed by the Alabaster Water Board have been extremely friendly and very welcoming,” she said. As for the job, she is excited to be here making a difference. “Every day brings new challenges and opportunities and every day in the utility business is different. I enjoy the fast pace associated with managing a utility company and enjoy solving complex problems and adapting to ever changing regulatory requirements,” she said. Koon went on to add, “I am proud to work in an industry where we improve the quality of life in a community every day by providing a safe and reliable drinking water supply.” Koon was pleased to find that the Alabaster Water Board has been so proactive in its pursuit of using the latest technology. “It is also exciting to work with new water treatment technology like the two membrane plants that have been installed on the groundwater wells within the water system,” she said. Membranes are an emerging

16 cityofalabaster.com

(L-R) Gary Denley, Plant Manager; Laura Koon, Water Board Manager; and Zane Boardhead, Grade 4 Operator at the filter plant #2 at well #3.

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Around Town

Employee Spotlight

Mark Harris

Public Works Director

Mark Harris is a team player. As the Public Works Director since early 2005 he has quite a team to work with and boast about. “The public works team is fifteen total members. We have the department split into two service specific sections for our department,” he said. The first team, which is made up of seven team members, handle “excessive trash” pick up, such as lawn, yard and household debris. “We provide this service,” said Harris, “with three grapple trucks, one rear loader and one roll off bin truck to haul debris to county landfill on a daily basis.” Harris likes to share that this

31 years. I was raised in Alabaster and my wife says I won’t live anywhere else, which has been true,” he said. Harris specifically wanted to recognize his team members from the public works department. “I would like to thank these guys for making daily operations of public works go smoothly and applaud them for willingness to go anywhere when needed,” he proudly shared. Public Works team members are: Ricky Kish, Russell Daniel, Chris Holcombe, Jerry Schofield, Jimmy Fritz, Ernest Wade, Patrick Self, Leroy Green, Bruce Holcombe, Roy Holcombe, James Morris, Bill Scurlock, J.C. Whitfield, Bennie Ramey, Tony Hawkins

Citizen Spotlight

Mike Jezdimir

For a man who was once paralyzed from the neck down, Mike Jezdimir, 63, has allowed nothing to break his spirit. Mike was diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis (TM) just after Independence Day, 1967. He was only 17-years-old when he contracted the rare disease that confined him to a bed for nearly a month.

Mark Harris and the public works team outside their shop with some of their equipment.

service is well used. “The majority does not realize how much debris is picked up and disposed of with this service,” he said. “We are servicing all residence weekly with curb side pick up and make around 300 total stops per day and average 30 tons of disposal to landfill each day which averages out to 600 tons per month.” The second service specific section team from the public works department is street maintenance. “They may take care of items such as right of way cutting in certain areas, landscaping, drainage issues, street signs, street lights, road repairs, traffic signal issues, equipment/vehicle maintenance and emergency weather related issues,” shared Harris. Before Harris came to work for the City of Alabaster he worked for a manufacturing company with over 20 years of experience. In 2004 the company decided to relocate their facility. Instead of moving with the job, Harris decided to stay with the community. “When the company moved I wanted to stay in Alabaster area since I had a son going to Thompson High School at that time,” he shared. His high schooler is now a young married man who chose for himself to move his family to Alabaster. “I’ve been married to my wife Connie for 18 cityofalabaster.com

Mike Jezdimir presenting a donation to Spain Rehabilitation Dept. of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

It was during this confinement to paralysis that Mike contemplated a decision that would change his life forever; to fight or be conquered. So, what is TM? In its simplest definition, it is a “rare inflammatory disease causing injury to the spine.” According to the website, it causes strength loss, alters senses and affects the part of the “nervous system that controls involuntary activities.” Mike’s decision was to fight. He married Lou Ann, and they had two boys and together they worked hard to get him to walk again. Then, 10 years ago, life started to slow down again for Mike. “I wasn’t sure if it was because of TM or old age,” he laughingly said. Recently, Mike, his family, friends, neighbors, and a wellequipped team at UAB formed the Mike L. Jezdimir Transverse

Myelitis Foundation. “All this started when our neighbors said, ‘Ya know, Mike, we ought to do a run for you’,” Lou Ann said. “Those neighbors are now our board members.” With the great support of the Alabaster community, the foundation sponsored the Run for Mike Fun Run (5K and 1 mile) and the TM Bass Tournament and raised $7000 to give to research. There are plans in the making for a Glow Run for TM in November. “The foundation works 2-fold,” Mike said. “Promote awareness for TM and raise funds for research and to promote the city of Alabaster.” This newly created foundation works diligently to educate people about TM. “There are doctors that don’t even know about TM,” Mike said. “If I have to go to the E.R. or Doc-in-a-box, I have to explain everything. By the time I’m done, I’d forgotten why I’d gone in the first place.” Mike and Lou Ann do not expect to find a cure for TM during his lifetime. Their fight is for someone else. “We’re losing babies… It seems like it’s becoming more and more frequent.” Lou Ann said passionately as she recalled the loss of a young child to TM. “Our fight is for that 4-year-old, 9-year-old, that stay-at-home mom….” Every new effort to research, every fund being raised is to help someone else. Mike wants to get the word out there to every ear he can reach. “Here we are with baby steps trying to get the word out [about TM] and then, last night-blog talk radio, today-interview with the Alabaster Connection, tomorrowNBC with Mike Royer,” Mike said appreciatively. “Governor Bentley even signed a proclamation declaring June 9th as TM Day.” Mike recently released his new book I Will Not Sell Pencils: My Journey, Living with Transverse Myelitis on Lulu.com, giving an in-depth look at TM. Would you like to nominate someone for a Citizen Spotlight? E-mail Council Member Sophie Martin martin@cityofalabaster.com or editor Luke Camara Luke@me2graphics.com

Alabama Vision Center

and the diagnosis and management of eye diseases and disorders. After receiving a B.A. from Birmingham Southern College, Dr. Pitts received his M.D. from the University of Alabama School of Medicine where he also received his ophthalmology residency training. He then served at the Noble Army Hospital in Fort McClellan, Alabama as Chief of Ophthalmology. Dr. Pitts is a fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology in addition to being a member of the Alabama Academy of Ophthalmology and has been in private practice in Birmingham since 1975. Alabama Vision Center welcomed Dr. Pitts to their practice in 2011 where he brought a wealth of experience to the team and helped provide advanced and expanded services to Shelby County patients. The Alabama Vision Center Shelby County office is located at 613 1st Street North in Alabaster and you can read more about their services and procedures at www.alabamavisioncenter.com. Dr. Pitts and his wife Andrea are very active in the local community and keep themselves busy raising children and grandchildren.

Business Spotlight Alabama Vision Center‘s Dr. Randall Pitts

Dr. Randall Pitts

Folks within the Alabaster community have come to appreciate the loyalty and level of patient care they receive at Alabama Vision Center, and a big part of that is Dr. Randall Pitts. Dr. Pitts is a board certified, ophthalmologist specializing in “no stitch” cataract laser and surgery, refractive lens exchange with bifocal implants,

Dr. Randall Pitts Board Certified, American Board of Ophthalmology Fellow, American Academy of Ophthalmology Fellow, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons Chief of Ophthalmology, Noble Army Hospital, AL Staff Ophthalmologist, Fort Gordon, GA

cityofalabaster.com 19

Around Town

Dr. Wayne Vickers and the Arts Council

Incoming Alabaster City School superintendent, Dr. Wayne Vickers (4th from left) and interim superintendent Dr. Phillip Hammonds (12th from left) join local Alabaster schools’ faculty as guests at the Alabaster Arts Council Arts Social, held at Jacob's Corner Event Center on May 16th. The Arts Council has awarded over $8,000.00 in funding to local schools, year to date. This year's art grant recipients were able to attend the Destination Imagination competition, albe to create group landscape collages of Grant Wood, and provided with Educreations apps, digital photography equipment, and musical instruments, such as Tubano drums, brass metallophones, and band chimes. To learn more about the Alabaster Arts Council and how your class can apply for the Grant Program visit http:// www.alabastercityfest.com/alabaster-arts-council/.

K & J Grand Opening

K & J Elegant Pastries celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting. Many in the local business community came out to show their support and celebrate with this new addition to the Alabaster business community.

first responder joy sullivan

Environmental Services Employees of the Quarter

Congratulations to Michael Brothers and Dennis Frazier who were recently selected and awarded the employees of the quarter for Environmental Services department. Mayor Handlon presented to them their awards thanking them for their dedication and service to the Alabaster community.

Joy Sullivan was on hand as Mayor Handlon presented a proclamation thanking first responders who came to her defense and to provide medical treatment from a home invasion. The proclamation read in part; “Mrs. Sullivan wishes to express her deepest gratitude to the following individuals for the services provided to her, as well as their continued compassion and support during her recovery.” Alabaster Police personnel: Lt. Stephen Williams, Sgt. Reggie Woodall, Sgt. Daniel Goodwin, Cpl. John Miller, Det. Randy Ray, Det. Paul Johnson, Off. Todd Reagin, Off. Phil Collins, Offi. David Sharpe, Off. Tim Crocker, Off. Kevin Summerall, Off. Jeff Greene, Off. Steve Hataway Alabaster Fire and Rescue personnel: Lt. Ken Henry, Lt. Dan Hornkohl, Apparatus Operator David Cavender, Firefighter Try Boykin, Firefighter Wesley Lash, Firefighter Mark Rikard Shelby County Sheriff ’s personnel: Deputy Terry Lowery, Deputy Kevin Allred Regional Paramedic Service personnel: Clint Burnett, Emma Lynch

Siluria “A Beautiful 1940 Snow Scene in Siluria” … Photo courtesy of Bobby Joe Seales. Please send your old photographs to bjseales@bellsouth. net or call (205) 902-6383.

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Alabaster’s All Star 6U Girls Softball had an amazing month long run willing two pre Area championships, runner up in the Area Championship, and coming in third in the state championship game. To celebrate such a great run they celebrated in high style with a cookout and a pool party. The team wished to thank their sponsors for the great support and to their parents and coach. Congratulations All Stars!

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School News

Cross Country 2013

(As of 7/11) *All meets are tentative. Meets in Alabaster are still subject to approval. August 31 Early Bird Invitational University of Montevallo September 7 Chickasaw Trails Oakville, AL September 12 Thompson 2 Mile Challenge* Veterans Park-Alabaster, AL September 21 TCBY Invitational Tuscaloosa, AL September 24 Shelby County Championships* Veterans Park-Alabaster, AL October 5 Jesse Owens Classic Oakville, AL October 12 TBA October 24 Hoover Invitational Veterans Park-Hoover, AL October 29 JV Challenge* Veterans Park-Alabaster, AL October 31 Sectionals (State Qualifier) Veterans Park-Hoover, AL November 9 State Championships Oakville, AL

Headaches, memory problems or other neurological issues? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Hector Caballero today.

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Marty Handlon, Mayor handlon@cityofalabaster.com, 664-6800

City Council

Sophie Martin, Ward 1 358-8742 | martin@cityofalabaster.com Bob Hicks, Ward 2 663-1801 | hicks@cityofalabaster.com Stacy Rakestraw, Ward 3 529-3326 | rakestraw@cityofalabaster.com Rick Walters, Ward 4 281-7394 | walters@cityofalabaster.com

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

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Shaping Tomorrow Today!

here is a noticeable difference. Many children say, “I love school!” Still others say, “I love my teacher!” At Evangel Classical Christian School we hear an additional comment which sets us apart, “I love learning!” Our educational model is derived from a passion to glorify God in all that we do; thus, we employ timeless principles that far outpace state and national standards. We invite you to come see the difference for yourself and join our parents in saying, “This is the education I wish I had!”

e l u d e h c s o t l l a C your tour! 205-216-0149

ECCS is an accredited K-12 school. Call 216.0149 for more info or visit www.EvangelClassical.org

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