Alabaster Connection August 2016

The Official Publication of the City of Alabaster

Alabaster Connection August 2016

It’s Back to

School!

Thompson Warrior Football Schedule ■ Page 9 Municipal Elections at Restore Building August 23rd 7 a.m-7 p.m. ■ Page 3

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The 3rd Annual

Te e n Ba s

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Alabaster Municipal Elections

August 23rd, 7 a.m to 7 p.m. at the Restore Building

Official Publication of the City of Alabaster Alabaster Connection is published monthly and it is delivered to citizens of the City of Alabaster Editorial Board The Public Relations Committee of the Alabaster City Council Committee Chair Councilwoman Sophie Martin Councilman Rick Walters Councilwoman Stacy Rakestraw Editor Luke Camara, me2graphics, LLC

Alabaster will host our quadrennial (once every four years) election for municipal offices.

The election is open to all registered and eligible voters. Alabaster voters will vote in the mayoral election and city council elections where multiple candidates have already qualified.

Elections will be held August 23rd from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Restore Building.

Alabaster elects the mayor city wide, and council members based on wards. There are seven wards in Alabaster. To see which ward you are zoned for, visit cityofalabaster.com and click the link for municipal elections.

There will be a change this year from prior years. The polling location will be the Restore Building, 128 Market Center Drive, Alabaster Al 35007. The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. A valid form of photo identification is necessary to cast a non-provisional ballot under most cases. Valid forms of identification include: • Valid Driver’s License • Valid Non-driver ID • Valid Alabama Photo Voter ID • Valid State Issued ID • Valid Federal Issued ID • Valid US Passport • Valid Employee ID from Federal, State of Alabama, county, or Municipality, Board, Authority or other entity of the state • Valid student or employee ID from a college or university in the state of Alabama • Valid Military ID • Valid Tribal ID If you are not in possession of one of these forms of acceptable ID, you may be eligible to receive a free Alabama photo voter ID card. Call 1-800-274-8683 for more information. Other exceptions might apply - see the Secretary of State website for more information: alabamavotes.gov.

In order to provide an absentee vote, the voter must make an application and follow procedures closely. A voter can print off the 2016 Municipal Absentee Ballot Application by visiting the City of Alabaster website, call city hall at 205-664-6800, or send an email to ghenry@ cityofalabaster.com to begin the process. For complete rules on absentee ballots, please visit the Secretary of State website: www.sos.alabama.gov.

Please note this edition of the Alabaster Connection is devoted to municipal elections, therefore, no mayoral or city council comments and political ads were included.

Contributors Shana Camara Heather Leavell Lindsay Schluntz

We welcome your comments and suggestions.

Call 447-2214 or email luke@me2graphics.com

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

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h app e n i n g s

It’s back to school time!

Creek view Elementary

Get Ready for Interactive Learning at Creek View Elementary!

The Creek View Warriors are gearing up for lots of hands-on learning opportunities during the 2016-2017 school year.

CVES teachers have saved the date for the AMSTI Science Training this summer, and will also be setting up Creek View’s very own STEAM lab (Science Technology Engineering Art and Mathematics).

Teachers are also continuing their book study of Leaders of Their Own Learning, focusing on data binders and student-led conferences. Students will share their data binders, goals, and progress with parents.

Students will also have the chance to share and show off their talents, from magic tricks to gymnastics performances and singing acts, at the First Annual Student Talent Show!

CVES will continue its community involvement and leadership by hosting a welcoming tea for new students.

Parents will also be invited to a monthly coffee with counselors and administration to hear speakers on various topics.

In addition, the school will also be partnering with Kids First Learning Center to strengthen community ties and to provide extra educational support.

“All the accomplishments and endeavors of this past year have worked to build warriors for life!”, celebrated Principal Charissa Cole.

4 cityofalabaster.com

creek view upcoming events: August 9 – Meet the Teacher & PD day August 9 – Kindergarten Parent Night August 11 – First Day for students August 15 – Third Grade Parent Night August 16 – First Grade Parent Night August 18 – Second Grade Parent Night September 1 – Title I presentation-for parents September 7 – Fall Picture Day September 12-16 – THS Homecoming week September 14 – Homecoming parade September 20 - October 21 – Body Trek mobile set-up at CVES

Meadow View Elementary

Full STEAM Ahead with Meadow View Elementary School!

This year, the Meadow View Elementary School (MVES) will be implementing a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) Lab for grades K-3. MVES teachers were instrumental in researching this project for the district.

Classroom teachers attended AMSTI Science Training this

summer in order to specifically support Science Standards.

“Students will experience Science in a whole new way through project-learning based activities and hands on experiments,” enthused Principal Rachea Simms.

Other creative learning environments at MVES will include a newly installed Butterfly Garden that was created by Eagle Scout, John McCrory, and an outdoor classroom that will begin construction this fall. This classroom will be used to extend the regular classroom setting.

There will also be a new faculty face at MVES this year, “We will be welcoming a new Assistant Principal, Tanya Wildman, to our school,” shared Simms.

Principal Simms expressed her pride in the school’s teachers. She said, “Our teachers teach everyone with respect and

Meadow View upcoming events: August 9 - Warrior Day August 9 - Pre-K & K Parent Night August 23 - 2nd grade Parent Night August 25 - 1st grade Parent Night August 30 -“Let’s Have a Ball Learning” – a FREE event for the students September 1 - 3rd grade Parent Night September 12-16 - Homecoming week September 14 - Homecoming parade September 15 - Annual Title 1 Meeting

dial staff has done a fantastic job getting the buildings looking pristine for the start of school.

Principal Brent Byars said he is most excited about the faculty and staff in the Thompson Intermediate building for the 2016-17 school year.

There will even be some new faculty this year, including: • Katie Lawley • Britania Hutchinson • Chelsea Shanks • Chris Schmidt • Katie Vanover • Cathy Champion • Janet Morgan “Our teachers have all attended multiple hours of training this summer to continue to grow, learn and improve to make sure the students that enter our doors are receiving the BEST we can offer on a daily basis,” Byars shared.

“Our theme for this year is IMPACT and our teachers are focused on ensuring that when their students walk out of

Thompson Intermediate upcoming events: Parent Academies: August 22 - 4th grade August 29 - 5th grade

Back 2 School Jam: August 26 - 5th grade September 9 - 4th grade

truly care about their students. They tell me how much it means to be reminded that their work matters.”

The faculty and staff of MVES are very excited to welcome the students back in August.

their room after day 180, they have made a difference in their lives,” he went on, “The difference they make will IMPACT [students] in a positive way for the remainder of their school career.”

Thompson Intermediate

Thompson Sixth Grade Center

Thompson Intermediate School – IMPACTING the Next Generation!

The Thompson Intermediate School was proud to be able to serve as a summer feeding site this year for the students in Alabaster. The CNP staff did a fabulous job serving our community through this program.

The school has adopted some exciting new reading and writing resources the teachers received training on this summer. All of the teachers also received brand new projectors and Hovercams for use this fall. Two more Computer On Wheels (COW) carts will be added this fall, as well, which will give the school a total of 6 COWs. These carts are equipped with 30 laptops for teachers to check out and use in their classrooms with their students.

In addition to curriculum and technology upgrades, the entire C building was repainted this summer and the custo-

Get Connected with the Thompson Sixth Grade Center!

This summer, the Thompson Sixth Grade Center (TSCG) launched social pages and a hashtag that will provide new ways to celebrate the many great things going on at the school.

“Like” TSGC on Facebook at TSGCwarriors, follow them on Twitter @TSGCwarriors. and utilize the hashtag #tsgcpride, as you attend and share your support for the events and students.

Some of the new programs from the 2015-2016 year will be put into full swing during the 2016-2017 year, as well.

“We had great success piloting our student centered clubs this past Spring, and we are excited to implement them this cityofalabaster.com 5

h app e n i n g s

year during the entire school year,” said Dr. Daniel Steele, TSCG Principal. “Clubs will meet during the school day 1-2 times a month.”

The school will also benefit from the addition of two new teachers this year: Temani Beck and Katie May. To meet the new and returning teachers, and to help students get acclimated for the new school year, TSGC’s Open House will be held on August 17th at 5:00, and a back-to-school dance will be on August 19th from 3:00-5:00.

Although Dr. Steele was recently named 20162017 Principal of the Year by the Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals (AASSP), he is quick to credit his staff for all the upcoming opportunities for the school year ahead.

“We have a dedicated and enthusiastic staff, and I know that we are getting a terrific group of 6th graders, so I’m excited to see the great work that these students will produce in our classrooms,” he continued, “I’m honored to be part of a sixth grade community that is learning and growing and turning potential into reality!”.

Thompson Middle

Thompson Middle School Leading the Way! Thompson Middle School will implement a new robotics class this school year. The class is part of Project Lead the Way and will follow the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) curricula as presented by the organization.

The 7th and 8th grade science classes will also be utilizing STEMScopes resources in the classroom.

Also this year, students will enjoy a newly repainted school cafeteria!

Registration at Thompson Middle School will open on Monday, August 1, and the first day of school for students will be Thursday, August 11.

Kingwood Christian

Supporting a Successful School Year at Kingwood Christian School!

Kingwood Christian School (KCS) has enjoyed multiple updates to the campus over the summer.

Several exterior upgrades included playground swings, the construction of a new retaining wall, and new skirting around the exterior classrooms.

Inside the school, new equipment was purchased for the cafeteria, and technology advancements, like upgraded WiFi and two additional iPad carts for the Elementary and Middle/High School, were added to expand the school’s tech options.

In mid-August, KCS will host a Football Jam-

6 cityofalabaster.com

boree with six schools attending, and in late September, the school will host a College and Career night to help Junior and Senior students focus on their plans for their futures.

For Headmaster Benny Cunningham, one of the most exciting things about this upcoming school year, is the energy that he has already seen in students… especially the Senior class.

With the Seniors facing their last year at Kingwood, a fun overnight retreat will be held for them, which will include activities like canoeing, zip-lining, rock climbing, and more! But it’s not all fun and games for these graduating students. They have already teamed up before the school year began to host a yard sale fundraiser for charity!

Cunningham explained that as a Christian School, what they look forward to the most each year is a bit different from other schools, “We look forward to wonderful weekly chapels when our student-led praise band plays and we have a time of ministry and prayer. In the crazy times we live in now, KCS can be a place of true peace in the storms for students, families and faculty.”

Evangel Classical Christian

Making the Most of Time at Evangel Classical Christian School!

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cal Christian School (ECCS), is the support of students’ spiritual development. This year, in order to better serve families who wish to attend Wednesday church services, grades 6-12 will be dismissed a little earlier on that day.

In addition, ECCS has changed the afternoon schedule some, with some students being able to leave earlier if all their required credits have been met.

“We are excited to see how our new elective schedule works out for our students and teachers,” shared Melissa Bell, Logic and Rhetoric School Principal.

More than just the schedule has been changed for the new school year, though! Several classrooms have had flooring updates, and the gym has had a new ceiling installed, thanks to the combined efforts of Evangel Church and the ECCS parents who gave generously in the school’s spring fund raiser.

“The new ceiling in the gym was a much needed improvement that will impact the Fitness for Life classes, as well as the school’s drama classes and several special events like the 6th-8th grade Cotillion and informal socials and dances throughout the year,” said Bell.

The chapel series this year will focus on the seven classical and Christian virtues.

“The thing that is exciting to us about the upcoming year is the thing that excites us about every year—another opportunity to serve the Lord by teaching and ministering to His children,” Bell expressed, “We love what we teach, we love the students we teach, and we are grateful to be here.”

EvangelClassicalChristian upcoming events: As one of the biggest challenges facing parents today is how to navigate the dangers of their children on social media, ECCS will be hosting My Secure Family’s seminar “Equipping Parents to Protect Children in the Digital Age.” The event will be held on Thursday, August 18 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in the Evangel Church Sanctuary, and the community is invited to attend.

The school’s annual “Open Door” will be held on August 4. School will begin on August 10, and on August 11, all sixth graders and any other new students will be sorted into one of six Houses.

“This House system is based on the English boarding school system and is a source of great fun and fellowship at ECCS,” Bell explained.

Thompson high school Seniors Tyler Couch, class of 2017

What he is most looking forward to this senior year: “Basically what every senior is looking for, to pass, and get accepted into college and be able to achieve in life.

Plans after graduation: “I’m starting to apply to schools but I am waiting to see if I get any college offers to play football. I play left guard. I would like to try to do something with sports medicine.”

What tradition are you most looking forward to: “Really the only thing I am looking for is Friday Night Lights and the Pep Rallies. I really like seeing all my friends and everyone in the school supporting us and then again that night. “

Madison Rayam, class of 2017

What she is most looking forward to this senior year: “I just excited for the season to start, I am ready to play and finally get back on the court with my teammates.

Plans after graduation: “I want to play college volleyball. I want to major in broadcast journalism. I am looking at colleges in Florida and Wisconsin” What tradition are you most looking forward to: “I am ready for the senior prank. I am very excited about that.”

Happ e n i n g s

Alabaster Teens Bring the Summer Fun

Mary Kathryn Grills and Noah Tanner, along with the Alabaster Teen Council, have been so pleased with the Teen Council activities so far this summer. “The movies at the stadium have been the biggest hit! Especially being at the stadium, it is just a better location,” Mary Kathryn shared.

Even some weather delays have not hampered the mood. “The weather pushed us back on the last movie, but we just rescheduled it. The turnout has Bubble Soccer will be making a return to Teen Bash 2016.

The Teen Bash will be August 20th, 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. at Municipal Park on the five acre field. been big and everyone is really enjoying themselves,” Mary Kathryn said.

“Teen movie nights are always great, to sit there with your friends and watch a movie,” said Noah.

The teen Slip and Slide day was a huge hit as well.

“Slip and Slide was a huge success. We had over 200 kids show up over the course of the day. It was a good experience,” Noah exclaimed.

The Summer fun comes to a resounding conclusion with the second annual Teen Bash. “It will be very similar to last year, except we won’t have really organized teams like last year. Instead of making teams compete against each other all night, you can just get in line and do the activities with your friends. We are removing the competition element, just trying to make it more fun,” Mary Kathryn said. Some of the returning events will be bubble soccer, karaoke, and the DJ. “We talked about doing ultimate frisbee, and adding more artistic elements. Our plan is to have as many diverse activities as possible. Not just sports, but music and arts,” shared Mary Kathryn.

They will be adding a tie-dye station that night - teens just need to bring a t-shirt to tie-dye and they will attempt a round of paint water balloons.

“Wear some older clothes and get them colored as part of the fun,” she exclaimed. The teens should also expect more vendors as well.

If your level of competition is fierce, you can

8 cityofalabaster.com

still compete, but this time it will be against students from other cities. “Last year we had teens from Pelham, Helena and even Hoover come out,” Mary Kathryn said. Noah is looking forward to competing against students from other cities. “We are going to bring in Hamster Balls and compete against the different cities,” he excitedly exclaimed.

Last year, the crowd was amazing and they are expecting an even larger event this year. “We had a great turn out last year, but I am hoping we have a larger turn out this year,” shared Mary Kathryn.

The whole Alabaster Teen Council would like to thank Mayor Marty Handlon, the Alabaster police and fire

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departments, the Parks and Rec department, and the Alabaster City Schools. “We could not do this without the support our police and fire departments. The support we get from the mayor’s office is amazing, and the Parks and Rec department will often stay late to help us tear down after the movie. The Alabaster City Schools have been great, allowing us to use the stadium,” Noah gratefully pronounced.

The Teen Bash will be August 20th from 5-11 p.m. at Municipal Park on the five acre field. Keep up with the Alabaster Teen Council via their social media pages: Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Friday Night Lights

A lot of great steps were taken last year for the Thompson High School Warriors. Head Coach Mark Freeman is entering his second season as head coach, and saw the team achieve an even season of 5 wins and 5 loses last year. The team did lose some amazingly talented and big-hearted teammates, many of whom went on to sign college scholarships.

He also had several students sign football scholarships to continue their careers at the collegiate level. This season, the Thompson Warriors are expecting a brighter outcome.

Thompson High School plays at the Class 7A level, which features the largest high schools in the state. They play in Region 3, which consists of Hoover, Huffman, Mountain Brook, Oak Mountain, Spain Park, Tuscaloosa County and Vestavia Hills schools. All home games are played at Larry Simmons Stadium with a kick off time of 7 p.m. most Friday nights this fall.

The Marching Southern Sounds will be putting on a fantastic production again this year. Come for the football, but stay for the band! The Marching Southern Sounds are coming off of their award-winning season and are looking to wow the audience, the community and the judges again this year.

To keep up with the Warriors, head over to www.thewarriornation.org Follow along with the Marching Southern Sounds at their website: www.marchingsouthernsounds.org/.

Happ e n i n g s

Will Travel for Homeschool Clarissa Winchester faced a problem when she wanted to take her two homeschooled children on a field trip. “I remember clearly attempting to visit the George Washington museum in Columbiana.

We needed a group to be able to book a tour, but there were only three of us. I put a request out on my Facebook page to see if anyone wanted to go with us. Everyone had already been, couldn’t go or what have you, so we never got enough people to be able to go,” she shared. This dilemma birthed an idea. “I thought this is crazy, I’m going to create a

FTRU recently took a field trip to Disney World.

“If this can open doors for my kids, it can open doors for others. We don’t have to know each other, or agree on school style, curriculum selection or have the same faith - we’re only going on a field trip.”

- we’re only going on a field trip,” she exclaimed. When her newly formed group did eventually book a trip to the Karl C. Harrison Museum of George Washington in Columbiana, they had families come from as far west as Tuscaloosa and as far east as Anniston.

This growth has also led to new partnerships. “Sometimes we are chosen as the sole homeschool reservation system for an event because we handle the influx of interest on the homeschool side, while a venue is busy handling traditional school groups. If a homeschooler is interested in attending, the venue will send them to us to take their reservation because we are open to all homeschoolers,” explained Win15AAC0004-REV 4/6/2016 - 10:25am

-Clarissa Winchester public Facebook page just for field trip offerings, so my own kids don’t miss out again on somewhere they want to go.” From this humble beginning, Winchester launched Field Trips R Us Homeschooling (FTRU).

FTRU was created in 2013 to offer a field trip resource to all homeschoolers, regardless of cover school, religious affiliation, or anything else. “We are not a support group or cover school. We aren’t a group, but rather a resource and travel as a group,” Winchester said. She was also very clear that this was not a job for her. “We are a ministry, not a business,” she states with a smile.

What started as a way to tour a local museum, has grown to over 1,400 members. And with this growth has come opportunity. “If this can open doors for my kids, it can open doors for others. We don’t have to know each other, or agree on school style, curriculum selection or have the same faith 10 cityofalabaster.com

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chester. She adds, “The slots are first come, first served. My friends find out the field trips the same time the rest of the followers do. We try to make things very fair for everyone.”

A recent highlight for Winchester was the Disney education trip. “As a former Disney Cast Member, it melted my heart to be able to provide some Disney magic for many of us that would have never been able to go at regular prices.

Again, we worked together and got almost 150 folks from around the country and were able to go at the educational rate. We had people fly in, drive and come with their campers too,” she said.

Winchester is joined in this ministry by her two sons and her husband. “FTRU would not exist without their support.

They are a very sacrificing group. I think they are being raised like I was, seeing their parents serve and often,” she proudly said.

FTRU has upcoming trips to D.C in August, Mexico in February for their first Homeschool Cruise, and they recently opened enrollment for their Italy trip. It is nothing to join - simply follow them on Facebook. FTRU is free, outside of fees for the field trips. They are open to all homeschoolers and even private school or public schools that want to take weekend or summer field trips. “FTRU does the leg work, and the parents focus on the homeschooling,” shared Winchester.

To find out more visit them online at www.facebook. com/fieldtripsrushomeschoolgroup.

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Happ e n i n g s

Project SEARCH – Empowering Students with Disabilities

Kim Bryant has been on the frontlines of Project SEARCH since it launched in Alabaster in August 2012. It was one of the first available in the state.

The program provides hand-on opportunities for 10-12 high school students with disabilities (ages 18-21) in area schools each year to participate in unpaid internships during their last eligible year of school.

Project Search is dedicated to moving students into young adults.

“Our goal is to help them progress from students in school into young adults.”

-Kim Bryant,

Project SEARCH

The three, 10-week internship rotations are hosted at Brookwood Shelby Baptist Medical Center.

“Students come into the program to learn a variety of job skills that make them marketable for employment after graduation,” said Bryant. “It’s incredible to watch their development and progress from Day One through to May.” The students are simply referred to as ‘interns’ throughout their time in the program.

“Our goal is to help them progress from students in school into young adults,” Bryant explained.

“So, they are treated as adults, with expectations as true interns in a real job.”

The Arc of Shelby County, Alabaster City Schools, Pelham City Schools, the Shelby County Board of Education, the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, The Department of Mental Health and Brookwood Shelby Baptist Medical Center partner together to support this local program.

Learning Through Doing The day-to-day Project SEARCH staff consists of one full-time teacher, a full-time job coach and a part-time job coach. These adults are responsible for teaching, training and guiding the interns through their responsibilities in the hospital.

Some of the areas in the hospital where the students gain experience include: 12 cityofalabaster.com

Materials Management • Shipping and receiving • Pulling orders • Delivering orders • Stocking shelves Women’s Center • Patient care • Customer service • Wiping down nursery equipment • Stocking formula/diapers Front Desk • Leading visitors to and from patients’ rooms • Customer service Emergency Room • Nurse assistant • Stocking rooms • Ensuring rooms are ready for the next patient The interns receive job descriptions and tasks for the roles they are assigned throughout each semester. They are then able to develop general and specific skills that are easily transferable to other potential employment positions outside the hospital after graduation.

Building Successful Students Although the program participants are still in their last year of their schooling, they spend the last year with the Project SEARCH group.

Bryant explained that sometimes this transition is initially a challenge, but that one of her favorite stories grew out of such a situation.

“One of our interns with a speech problem loved being in school, and he actually didn’t want to come to Project SEARCH because he was a manager of the football team.

So, at first, he wasn’t very interactive and refused to talk to the leaders much,” she paused as a smile started to grow.

“But, once he got started and met so many new friends and saw all the opportunities that were available to him, he just leaps and bounds excelled!”

She went on to share that not only was the intern able to still join with his football team on Friday nights, but he went on to get hired at the Winfrey Hotel after he graduated from the program.

Some of the interns are offered employment positions within the hospital after the program, and some seek positions in other industries.

“He became so much more confident in who he was. He wasn’t as worried about his speech because he fit right in and was treated like an employee throughout the program,” she said proudly, “He has had his job at the Winfrey for over a year and a half now.”

Graduating with Confidence and Opportunities Graduation from the year-long program is celebrated with a diploma certificate of completion.

Some of the interns are offered employment positions within the hospital after the program, and some seek positions in other industries. For example, hotels often have openings that require the transferrable skills that the interns developed during their program, such as the making beds, general cleaning, and front desk customer service.

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Happ e n i n g s

“When you see the smiles on their faces when they complete a task and the accomplishments they make each day, you know it’s a success.”

-Kim Bryant,

Project SEARCH

With our proven systems and Project SEARCH Touches Lives save you 50% over other com There are now 13 locations in Alabama that offer Project SEARCH to graduating seniors.  One of the most misundersto But the program doesn’t only impact the stu In the water damage industr With our proven systems and procedures, we can often dents. Itsave also provides valuable service to the rental property or business fu you 50% overaother companies! while at the same time keepi community.  Would you rather have your  One of the most misunderstood variables in any job is cost.

“When the national Project SEARCH team preexperience within and 3 to life 5 days, in p  In the water damage industry, our job is to keep your home, Project Search is helping young people find work dried sented therental opportunity to Shelby Baptist property or business functioning, safein and2012, healthy, of all wet materials and recon opportunities. while at the same costsgive down.back months to complete? the hospital saw it as a time waykeeping to notyour only  Would you rather have your home or business and contents  As a home or business owne to the community, but to really support it,” Bryant dried within 3 to 5 days, in place, or a complete tearing out and the safety of your emplo of all wet materials sometimes asserted, explaining thatand thereconstruction program taking prepares studrying out your property, ver to complete? dents to bemonths successful members of the workforce unnecessary reconstruction t  As a home or business owner, consider your productivity loss  The use of specialized drying Us in the community. and the safety of your employees or loved ones; aAbout few days makes the initial drying proce DynoDry drying out is your property, weeks orfor evenour months, “This program not only versus rewarding in- as is a family-owned and locally operated structural drying, smoke remediating, roofing, less than those companies w unnecessary reconstruction takes place. terns, but for use meofas well,” said you and mold inspection company. We spe Our expertise is Drying in P moisture  The specialized drying Bryant. equipment “When and knowledge cialize using professional, scientific-drying methmakeson the their initial drying higher but our overall duration and cost could be as much as 50% ocally operated see the smiles materials and how they hold facesprocess whencostthey complete a injob ting, roofing, less than those companies who focus on unnecessary ods tear and out. equipment on every job and the latest constantly being developed t task and the accomplishments they make each day, to this area, requiring of construction  Our expertise is Drying in Place. This is a new concept mpany. We speWeknowledge Work With Most All Insuranceously Agencies. mold testing and extermination techniques. thought possible. ntific-drying meth-you know materials and how they hold and release moisture in the air and surrounding materials. New technology is it’s a success.”

and the latest echniques.

ears in the roofing d Installer, ou will need to s, even from storm

fied by the IICRC nstitute (SEMI), , the largest roofca. Our goal, on ed equipment and ater and/or mold, Our goal is to finding and dealroperly trained sastrous event.

our website at

com

our certified ls 0151

constantly being developed to dry materials faster and safer than previWAtEr DAmAgE In addition, with more than 15 years in the roofing ously thought possible.

rEStorAtion What type of equipment do w industry, and as a GAF Certified Installer, roofing DynoDry is the only phone call you will need to What type of equipment do we use and what are our credentials? molD rEmEDiAtionThe most advanced drying and make when water damage occurs, even from storm procedures are used by DynoDry moiSturE/molD inSpEction equipment available to our indus The most advanced drying and mold remediation damaged roofs.

We the IICRC Drying procedures are used by DynoDry Structural Drying, Inc. Weare useformally the besttrained and certified by StructurAl metering and monitoring systems The Southeastern Mold Institute (SEMI), equipment available to our industry, including an arrayand of the highest quality mold testing equipment are some ExtErior/intErior rEconStruction metering and monitoring systems available. High temperature dehumidifiers, hardwood floorthe drying systems and as well as GAF Materials Corp., largest roofThese are sent out to all eligible students mold testing equipment are some of our standard toolsing in manufacturer which we have been certified trained. in North America.

Our goal, on Service AvailableWhat kind of experience do w -and 24/7 Emergency in December, and must be received by every job, is to use our specialized equipment and financing Available What kind of experience do we have?

Project SEARCH by the end of January. certified training to remediate water and/or mold, We at DynoDry Structural Drying smoke damage or roofing issues. Our goal is to cation courses taught by a leadi at DynoDry Structural Inc. in are mid-toformally trained and have completed their WRT/ASD IICRC certifiTheWeinterview processDrying begins take the stress and hassle out of finding and dealtified in mold inspection and rem cation courses taught by a leading industry expert, which includes flood house training. In addition, we are cerlatetified February, and acceptance letters are ing with multiple, unreliable, trained sion, we are a GAF Certified In in mold inspection and remediation by Southeastern Mold Institute (SEMI). improperly As for our roofing dividuring a timeand of installation a disastrous event. so areMay. a GAF Certified Installer, which meanscontractors, we use the best materials techniques, sentsion, outwein we can provide our customers on

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C a l e n da r

Community

AUGUST 2nd Water Board 7 p.m.

3rd Trial Dockets 8th Alabaster City School Board 5:30 p.m.

8th Council 7 p.m.

9th Housing and Abatement Board 5 p.m.

10th Court Plea Dockets 9 a.m. & 2 p.m.

15th Board of Zoning Adjustments 6:30 p.m.

22nd Council 7 p.m.

23rd Planning and Zoning 7 p.m.

24th Court Plea Dockets 9 a.m. & 2 p.m.

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

library

The Albert L. Scott Library is located at 100 9th Street N.W., Alabaster. Hours of operation are: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday - 9 a.m.-7:50 p.m.

Wednesday - 10 a.m.-5:50 p.m.

Friday - 9 a.m.-5:50 p.m.

Saturday - 10 a.m.-4:50 p.m.

Sunday - 1-4:50 p.m.

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

Friends of the Albert L. Scott Library Be a Friend!

The Friends of the Albert L. Scott Library is a non profit organization, set up to support our local library by raising funds to help with the Children’s programs and other needs and wants. One way we do this is by having book sales held each Spring and Fall. Mark your calendars for this year’s Fall Sale for September 30-October 2, 2016. If you’d like to shop early on Friday, please join as a friend for $10 or become a lifetime member for $100. Forms can be found in the front of the library. All new friends who sign up in the month of August will be registered to win a $20 gift card to Redbox. If you are interested in finding out more about the Friends of the Library, please join us for our next quarterly meeting on October 10, 2016 at 6 p.m.

Fine Forgiveness Week at the Albert L. Scott Library Got overdue fines? Don’t let those old fines keep you from returning materials and checking out more! The Albert L. 16 cityofalabaster.com

Scott Library is breaking with tradition and offering “Fine Forgiveness Week” to encourage long-lost patrons to bring their overdue items back to the library and become active library patrons again. From Saturday, August 13 through Friday, August 19, come to the Albert L. Scott Library and we will waive existing overdue fines, provided all materials have been returned.

• This promotion is only for overdue fines.

• Lost material costs will not be forgiven.

• Condition of returned materials must be acceptable.

• Fines incurred on other libraries’ materials will not be waived.

Job Search Workshops Join us as local expert Fabray Turner leads the following workshops: August 1, 6:30 p.m. – Job Searching Today August 8, 6:30 p.m. – Resume Writing Today August 15, 6:30 p.m. – Interviewing Today August 22, 6:30 p.m. – Networking Today August 29, 6:30 p.m. – Social Media Workshop

ABC & Ds of Medicare August 8, 1 p.m.

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

Reverse Mortgage Basics August 17, 1 p.m.

Reverse Mortgages? Are they really beneficial for Seniors? Come learn all the basics about Reverse Mortgages and answer questions like: How old do I have to be? Do I retain ownership of my home? Does my family inherit debt when I die? What is the difference between a Reverse Mortgage and a Home Equity Line of Credit? All of these questions and more will be answered. The meeting will be facilitated

by John Littleford, a Reverse Mortgage Professional. Program takes place in the meeting room. NMLS # 1452250 Library Book Group August 18, 7 p.m.

Join us to discuss The Art of Hearing Heartbeats by Jan-Philipp Sendker. When a successful New York lawyer suddenly disappears without a trace, neither his wife nor his daughter Julia has any idea where he might be, until they find a love letter he wrote many years ago to a Burmese woman they have never heard of. Intent on solving the mystery and coming to terms with her father’s past, Julia decides to travel to the village where the woman lived. There she uncovers a tale of unimaginable hardship, resilience, and passion that will reaffirm the listener’s belief in the power of love to move mountains. Program takes place in the meeting room.

Life South Blood Drive August 23, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Adult Computer Classes Call or come by for more information: 205-664-6822.

youth Events

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

Cool Story Times to Beat the August Heat STory Times Wednesdays 3:30 p.m.

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

Toddler Tales for 2 and 3 year olds in the Meeting Room Miss Jennie’s Story Time Themes: Fishing Time Back to School What Kind of Animal Would You Like to Be? Grandpa’s Farm

Parks and Rec

The Parks and Recreation Office is located inside the Depot at 100 Depot Street, Alabaster. Office hours are Mon.-Fri. from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. If you would like more information, call 205-6646840 or visit www.alabasterparks.org.

STAY INFORMED THRU EMAILS If you are not receiving emails from Parks and Recreation regarding registrations and events, you can sign up by going to www.alabasterparks.org and scrolling down the page to the SIGN UP link. All you have to enter is your name and email address.

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

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

ADULT SOFTBALL REGISTRATION Registration for teams (not individuals) will begin on July 25 at 8:00 am and end on August 12 at 5:00 pm at the Depot. OnLine Registration for teams (not individuals) will begin on July 25 at 8:00 am and end on August 13 at 11:00 pm. Fee: $180.00.

No registration form accepted without payment in full. Two leagues will be offered: Coed and Men’s Open. Leagues will begin play in September. For more information, please contact Nik McCrimon at 664-6840 or nmccrimon@cityofalabaster.com FALL BASEBALL Baseball is available to boys ages 4-12 as of April 30, 2017. OnLine Registration will be available at www.alabasterparks.org beginning at 8 am on July 25 and ending at 11 pm on August

13. You can register in person at the Depot between 8 am and 5 pm, weekdays only from July 25 thru August 12. Baseball Cost: $85.00 (plus 10% for non-residents). For more information, please contact Morgan Lawley at 664-6840 or mnlawley@ cityofalabaster.com.

GIRL’S FALL SOFTBALL Softball is available to girls age 5-12 as of January 1, 2017. OnLine Registration will be available at www.alabasterparks.org beginning at 8 am on July 25 and ending at 11 pm on August 13. You can register in person at the Depot between 8 am and 5 pm, weekdays only, from July 25 thru August 12. The fee will be $85.00 (plus 10% for non-residents). For more information, please contact Morgan Lawley at 664-6840 or mnlawley@ cityofalabaster.com.

Youth Tackle Football (Full Contact) Games will begin August 29.

Youth Flag Football Games will begin the 1st or 2nd full week of August.

Cheer Clinic (this clinic is mandatory) Clinic will begin on August 1 from 6:00 until 8:00 pm at the Thompson High School Gym. It will conclude on August 5 with a “show off ” night for parents to enjoy.

TEEN MOVIES Tuesday nights FREE movies for teens at Veterans Park on Field 1 (outfield), located at 7305 Hwy. 119 in Alabaster. The movies are hosted by the Alabaster Teen Council. Bring some friends and come out for a safe, fun evening. The movies will begin showing around dusk (usually 8:00 pm). Bring a blanket or some chairs, money for concession stand purchases, and some bug repellent. Please note: No alcohol or smoking allowed.

August 9: “Mean Girls” rated PG-13 TEEN BASH Saturday, August 20, 5 p.m - 11 p.m.

Don’t miss the fun the Alabaster Teen Council has planned for Teen Bash including a DJ, Karaoke, and an Inflatable Obstacle Course. The event will occur at Municipal Park located at 500 Warrior Drive, Alabaster. The event is FREE; however, money will be needed for any concession purchases.

C a l e n da r

Parks and Rec events continued...

On-Line Pavilion Rentals Visit www.alabasterparks.org. Several of our City Parks offer pavilions for events such as picnics, family reunions and birthday parties. The best way to assure your event happens at the location of your choice is to reserve it early. Please do not send out invitations listing one of our parks as the event location before you have secured a pavilion through Parks and Recreation. The pavilion you plan on using may not be available. Pavilions are available for use by permit only. There is a $40 rental fee (no checks accepted) which must be paid before your reservation is complete. Note: Inflatables, charcoal grills, and piñatas are not allowed in any of the City parks. Please see our web site for a complete list of rules. All open picnic tables (those not under a covering) are available free of charge on a first come, first served basis.

Senior Center

The Alabaster Senior Center is located at 1097 7th Street S.W., Alabaster. If you would like more information concerning senior programs, please contact Alabaster Senior Center at 663-1307 or awalters@ cityofalabaster.com.

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

2 night/3 day Nashville, TN December 6-8, 2016 This will be a festive Christmas trip. We will enjoy the Gaylord’s’ Opryland Ice Exhibit and visit the beautifully decorated Opryland Hotel. We will enjoy an Opryland Country show at the Ryman Theater and also the Nighttime Dinner Theater show. The fun does not stop there! We will travel 30 minutes south to the quaint little town of Franklin, TN. You will have the opportunity to walk around downtown Franklin and enjoy lunch on your own. We will also take a tour of the Lotz Home and Civil War Museum. Our last stop before heading out of town will be to take a tour of the Parthenon in Nashville. Space is limited and cost for single occupancy is $395, double $275, triple occupancy $235. Mark your calendars.

Sign-ups begin July 1. Stop by and make your deposit of $75/person to hold your spot.

Your Life, Your Legacy and Preplanning Tuesday, August 2, 10 a.m.

Join us for an educational seminar in a relaxed, informal environment to answer your questions, address your concerns and show you how easy it is to start planning your funeral and cemetery pre18 cityofalabaster.com

arrangements today. Session will be presented by Southern Heritage Funeral Home.

Paper Craft Class Monday, August 8, 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Join us for an ongoing class to learn the basics of paper crafting. Whether you want to make your own handmade cards or create beautiful scrapbooks to preserve family memories this class is for you. In each class you will make examples of 1-2 new techniques which can be used to make you own personalized creations during the class. Join us for fun and creativity as well as discovering your hidden talents. This class is held the second Monday of the month from 12-3pm.

Cost: $5/class.

AARP Smart Driver Class Monday, August 15, 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m This is a 6 hour classroom refresher that can help the effects of aging on your driving and how you can adjust your driving. Cost is $15.00/AARP member and $20.00/AARP nonmember. Bring your own lunch. Make checks payable to AARP. You will need to stop by the Senior Center and reserve your spot.

Gardening Class Tuesday, August 23, 9:30 - 11 a.m.

In this class you will be making two concrete fern stepping stones. One for yourself and one for the senior center’s garden area. You can bring things to decorate your stepping stone or we will have decorative glass, etc. to place in the stepping stones. Space is limited. Cost is $8/person.

Herbal Solutions For Everyday Living Tuesday, August 23, 12-1:30 p.m.

The herbs you grow in your backyard are not only for eating and medicine but can easily be incorporated into daily living. You will not only learn about these herbs, you will be making your own herbal solutions for your home. Space is limited. Cost is $12/person.

Upcoming Book Club Monday, August 22, 9:30 a.m.

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

September Class! Hand Building Clay Class Friday, September 9, 8:30 - 2 p.m.

This class will focus on using and sculpting clay. We will learn how to press and form 2 lbs. of clay into a leaf print bowl. You will have the option to use the leftover clay to make smaller ornaments but there will be an additional cost

to you. Space is limited. Cost 25.00 per person includes clay, demonstration, glazing and firing. You will need to bring $10-12 for lunch following the class. Special thanks to Shelby County for helping support this program.

Step Back into 1864….Civil War Dinner Theater Day Trip-near Chattanooga, Tn Tuesday, September 13, 6:15 a.m. - 6:45 p.m.

This is a family show that welcomes everyone interested in America’s history. Based on actual events. The year is 1864.

A die-hard Unionist brother runs into his Confederate sister.

Both struggle to understand the other’s view on saving the South. This theater has been featured on The History Channel, The Travel Channel, PBS, The Associated Press and The Los Angeles Times. You don’t want to miss this fun trip!

Space is limited. Cost is $45 and includes, transportation, lunch and a fabulous show.

Check out our great fitness/exercise classes!

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

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

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

the 10:10 a.m. beginner class. No experience necessary. Cost $2/class.

Ageless Adventures in Movement Thursdays, 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Uses movement as a language to express an idea. As we explore some issues of aging and learn the basics of creative movement. We’ll learn to use the elements of dance to tell our stories and explore the concept of the relationship between dance and the well-being of mind, body and spirit. No prior dance experience is necessary. We’ll build our dance vocabulary as we go! This is an ongoing class $2/class.

Tempo!

Fridays, 10 a.m.

Focuses on stretching, cardio, light weights and having fun!

All taught to music! Learn safe ways to improve muscles to make every day activities easier. Emphasis is on improving and maintaining overall health from head to toe. You won’t want to miss this class. All levels are welcome. Space is limited. $2/class.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An hour class that combines traditional yoga postures and breathing techniques. Gentle movement is modified to allow the class to be completed by a standing or seated participant.

All levels of fitness are welcome. Cost is $2/person and space is limited.

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

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

Line dancing Thursdays, 9:15 a.m.

Join us on Thursdays for the 9:15 a.m. intermediate class or

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

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

Tempo exercise: Fridays, 10 a.m.

Just a reminder: You can report any problems or concerns by calling 6646800 or by using the online “report a concern form” at www.cityofalabaster.com.

Around Town

City Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged)

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

June 13th, 7:00 p.m.

June 27th, 7:00 p.m.

Mayor Comments Mayor Handlon shared a proclamation recognizing Colson Benedict on achieving the rank of Eagle Scout within the Boy Scouts of America Association. Mayor Handlon recognized John Miller for his contributions within juvenile court system and his upcoming retirement.

Agenda Items *Public Hearing on these items

Mayor Comments Mayor Handlon conducted a pinning ceremony for the following members of the Alabaster Fire Department: Captain Tim Love, Lieutenant Zach Cruce, Apparatus Operator Jason Humphries, Apparatus Operation Brian Thrasher, Firefighter Stephen Davis, and Firefighter Matt Owens Agenda Items *Public Hearing on these items 1. Ordinance 160613-026 Annexation Request 250 Crosscut Road Public Hearing Council President Brakefield opened the public hearing on Ordinance 160613-026. No one spoke for or against Ordinance 160613-026. Council Member Ryals made a motion to approve. Council Member Walters seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 2. Resolution 061316 FY16 Budget Revisions Council Member Walters introduced Resolution 061316. Council Member Hicks seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a roll call vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 3. Resolution 061316-A Agreement with Manna Ministries Council Member Rakestraw introduced Resolution 061316-A and made a motion to approve. Council Member Bedsole seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously Said meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m.

20 cityofalabaster.com

1. Resolution 062716 Fiscal Year 2015 Audit Acceptance Mr. Jason Harpe of the auditing firm Carr, Riggs, Ingram made a brief presentation regarding the Fiscal Year 2015 Audit.

Council Member Martin made a motion to approve Resolution 062716. Council Member Rakestraw seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 2. Ordinance 160627-027* General Obligation 2016-A Council Member Walters introduced Ordinance 160627-027 and requested immediate consideration. Council Member Walters made a motion to suspend the rules to allow for immediate consideration of this Ordinance due to the time constraints of closing the bond deal. Council Member Hicks seconded. Council President Brakefield called for a roll call vote. All members present voted in the affirmative thus suspending the rules to allow for immediate consideration.

Council President Brakefield then opened the public hearing to allow those present to speak for or against said Ordinance.

Mr. Jason Grubbs of Frazer Lanier spoke to those present in favor of passage and reiterated the net present value savings being realized as a result of this refunding. With no one else speaking for or against Mr. Brakefield closed the public hearing.

Council Member Walters made a motion to approve Ordinance 1602627-027. Council Member Hicks seconded. Council President Brakefield called for a roll call vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 3. Ordinance 160627-028* General Obligation 2016-B Council Member Hicks introduced Ordinance 160627-028 and requested immediate consideration. Council Member Hicks made a motion to suspend the rules to allow for immediate consideration of this Ordinance due to the time constraints of closing the bond deal. Council Member Walters seconded.

Council President Brakefield called for a roll call vote. All members present voted in the affirmative thus suspending the rules to allow for immediate consideration. Council President Brakefield then opened the public hearing to allow those present to speak for or against said Ordinance. With no one else speaking for or against Mr. Brakefield closed the public hearing.

Council Member Hicks made a motion to approve Ordinance 1602627-028. Council Member Walters seconded. Council President Brakefield called for a roll call vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously

062716-F. Council Member Walters seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously

4. Resolution 062716-A Warrior Park Parking Lot Bid Council Member Ryals made a motion to approve Resolution 062716-A, awarding the bid to Global Management Group in the amount of $106,852 to be paid from capital funds. Council Rakestraw seconded. Council President Brakefield called for a roll call vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously

10. Ordinance 160627-029* Zoning Ordinance Revisions Council President Brakefield opened up the public hearing allowing those present to speak for or against Ordinance 160627-028. With no one speaking for or against Mr. Brakefield closed the public hearing. Council Member Ryals made a motion to approve Ordinance 160627-028. Council Member Walters seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously

5. Resolution 062716-B CR26 Extension Signal Maintenance Council Member Bedsole made a motion to approve Resolution 062716-B, agreeing to terms of maintenance with ALDOT over a soon to be installed signal along US31 and CR26. Council Member Martin seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 6. Resolution 062716-C 2nd Street TAP Grant Council Member Rakestraw made a motion to approve Resolution 062716-C, agreeing to the 20% City match on this federal grant in the amount of $91,800 as well as certain necessary engineering costs associated with this project to be paid from capital funds. Council Member Bedsole seconded.

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

Motion Passed Unanimously 7. Resolution 062716-D Alabaster Admin Building HVAC Maintenance Agreement Council Member Hicks made a motion to approve Resolution 062716-D, agreeing to terms of a maintenance agreement with Vulcan Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. in the annual amount of $3,984. Council Member Walters seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a roll call vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously

11. Resolution 062716-G Bob Green Memorial Parkway Designation Council Member Rakestraw made a motion to approve Resolution 062716-G. Council Member Hicks seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously Said meeting adjourned at 7:48 p.m.

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8. Resolution 062716-E Appointment of Municipal Elections Manager Council Member Martin made a motion to approve Resolution 062716-E. Council Member Hicks seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 9. Resolution 062716-F Absentee Elections Manager Expenses Council Member Bedsole made a motion to approve Resolution

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Around Town

Alabaster Shows the Love

It was a rainy Tuesday night, and yet a large crowd was milling around the parking lot, the entrance way, and the sidewalk of Buck Creek Pizza and Wings in Alabaster. The citizens of Alabaster stood there in their rain soaked shoes under umbrellas that mostly kept them dry to show their support for the 126 Alabaster Police officers and their family members as they enjoyed a free meal paid for by local donations.

The story of how this came about starts four

“We live in Alabaster and we wanted to show our support for the officers and their families. ” -Dena Bedsole

days prior. Kimberly Kielbasa, Dena Bedsole and Hunter Spradlin were all considering the same idea on that day. What if we could show support for our APD by providing a free night out at a local restaurant? “First off, you have know that Dena and I have never met in person before tonight,” shared Kimberly Kielbasa, as she hugged Dena around the neck. The two of them, along with Spradlin, the owner of Buck Creek Pizza and Wings, planned the whole evening over the phone. Along with providing a free meal, the organizers wanted the community to show up and symbolically stand watch over the officers and their families as they enjoyed their dinner.

As the night arrived, Dena was apprehensive.

“The rain made us nervous - we wondered if anyone would show up,” she rhetorically asked. As it turned out, a large crowd gathered outside and stayed there for the whole two hour event.

For Lt. Peavy, who was enjoying the night with her son, was just blown away with the community support of their police force. “It is amazing. We are lucky enough to have community support, but this is just amazing. I hope it continues,” she shared.

22 cityofalabaster.com

Alabaster Police Officer Plumb enjoying the evening with his family and friends.

As the evening wore on, a recognizable woman entered with her daughter. Paula Davis, the widow of Philip Davis, the Pelham Police Officer who was killed in the line of duty in December of 2009, stopped by to show her respect for the officers and to make a donation towards the cause. “We live in Alabaster and we wanted to show our support for the officers and their families. It is all about them tonight,” she shared. “They need it even more, especially after the events in Dallas.”

The whole event was paid for by donations, and when it looked like their might not be enough donations due to the overwhelming response from the officers, an

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As the night came to a close, Dena drew attention to a solitary older gentleman who had been standing watch in the rain for the past two hours. She leaned in and shared his story. “His son is inside but he refuses to go inside and eat with him. I asked him why, and he said because it was his turn to watch his son’s back.”

A Night of Unity

Rev. Larry Coleman, pastor of Freewill Ministries, and his daughter, organized a community prayer service that brought together the Alabaster Police Department (APD), area churches of all denominations and creeds, elected officials, and the community.

Rev. Coleman opened the evening with a call to purpose. “We want to put this gathering in it’s proper perspective. The lambs have been silent, but I think the Lord is calling on all of those who are ready to humble themselves. Understand this - I know that the prayer of the righteous avails much. We see a problem, but we want to be part of the solution,” he shared. He thanked those in attendance and reminded them of an important fact. “Unity is promoted when we come together. I appreciate your presence now.”

“I am so thankful to be part of this community. I’m thankful that we have peace officers, who are well-trained and well led. I am proud of this community, and I hope that we can continue to be a community that sets the example for the rest of the world.”

-Mayor Marty Handlon

Pastors, APD, Mayor Handlon and Council Member Martin came together to pray for unity (not pictured councilor Brakefield).

Pastor Danita Ryan opened the service with prayer for the police, for those gathered, and for the community.

She also asked for unity among the pastors of the community.

Mayor Marty Handlon spoke to the gathered congregations and offered words of thanks and inspiration. “I am very thankful to be in a leadership role in this city.

A city that is a community full of faith, hope and love.

But it does take effort to be that kind of community. We can never rest on what we have accomplished because evil is present in this day and age,” she began. “The efforts I speak of don’t just include in prayer, but in our daily interaction. We have to connect and interact with each other on a regular basis. We have to provide that understanding, that encouragement in times of trial. I am so thankful to be part of this community. I’m thankful that we have peace officers, who are well trained and well led. I am proud of this community, and I hope that we can continue to be a community that sets the example for the rest of the world,” she shared.

Chief Rigney from the APD was asked to address those gathered and offered up words of gratitude. “I can’t thank Rev. Coleman enough. I know - I was going to say my officers, but they are your officers - are appreciative as well,” shared Rigney to a chorus of “Amen” from the crowd. “It is the relationship that we have to work on. And we work on that every day. And sometimes it is difficult. We work on that as a community.

We don’t have a lot of the problems that we see on TV at night. We are very fortunate that we aren’t experiencing those problems. And I think we can praise God about that! I want to thank Mayor Handlon for her leadership, one reason that we don’t have a lot of these problems,” he shared.

Chief Rigney also shared what he thinks is the best course of action when a dilemma does arise. “Let’s make sure that when we do have a problem, that we communicate, that we talk, that we call and say ‘Hey, I don’t understand’. Lets pick up the phone and call,” Chief Rigney urged.

The evening continued with prayers offered up for the

Around Town

next generation, for the nation as a whole and for those gathered as well.

Council Member Sophie Martin, Ward 1, shared some prepared remarks as well. “Thank you so much for being here. It means the world to me to see all of you here. To me, Alabaster does set an example of unity, all working for the common good,” she gladly shared.

John St. Pierre, community relations officer for the ADP, offered a prayer, quoting scripture as a reminder of what unity means among brothers and sisters in Christ.

As the hour long service came to a close, Pastor Coleman made a plea for unity and for action. “There is nothing wrong with smiling.

There is nothing wrong with being courteous.

Are we going to allow the media to bring us down or are we going to make a difference?” he questioned the flock. “Don’t just walk out the door - make it your personal business to greet someone you don’t know. As brothers and sisters in Christ, we stand together. It doesn’t matter what your profession is, we are brothers and sisters in Jesus. We are different, but we have so much in common. We can focus on the negative and be divided or we can focus on what make us one. We are one,” he passionately pleaded with the people gathered.

As the crowd dispersed groups of citizens, many who never met before this night, gathered to hug, cry, and prayer for each other, regardless of age, race, or profession.

Having an Indomitable Spirit After Hurricane Katrina Dennis & Adrienne Torrealba Citizen Spotlight

Although Dennis and Adrienne Torrealba are now established members of the Alabaster community, they aren’t both originally from the area... or even from Alabama!

Adrienne was born and raised in New Orleans.

Once they met and married, the couple lived in her home city for eight years.

“Life in New Orleans was fast. Every activity was planned around food and social events,” Dennis described. “Add school and work, and weeks passed quickly. It’s easy to get caught up in the quick pace of a 24 hour, 7 day a week kind of city.”

Leaving Home After Hurricane Katrina

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The Torrealba family.

When Hurricane Katrina came blowing towards the city in 2005, the couple almost didn’t evacuate.

“We had evacuated so many times with false alarms, and each time we would worry that our home would be looted, or that the hurricane would hit and we wouldn’t be there to secure all of our belongings,” shared Adrienne.

“We finally decided to leave the day before, and good thing we did!”, Dennis exclaimed.

After seeing all of the footage of the devastating hurricane as it happened, the Torrealbas saw their home in shambles, and were thankful that they were all able to just get out of the city safely and that they had each other.

“Everything we left behind could be replaced,” they commented.

Finding a New Home The couple temporarily relocated to Alabama, since much of their family lived in the Birmingham area. Unfortunately, for about six months of the transition, Dennis and Adrienne had to live in separate states, which was understandably difficult.

“I had to take a job in another state and Adrienne had to stay in Hoover for her job,” explained Dennis. “We had the opportunity to move to China, but the Birmingham community had been so good to us, we chose to stay here.”

Once they decided to stay, they began the process of looking for a permanent home and landed here in Alabaster.

“We fell in love with the sense of community and kindness that you receive everywhere you go. We felt we had moved to a place with great potential,” Dennis enthused.

Adrienne agreed, “It’s like being welcomed by family.”

Putting Down Roots in Alabaster Since the Torrealbas have settled in to Alabaster, they have had 2 children, Danica and Dahlia, and they can’t imagine raising them anywhere but here.

Their oldest, Danica, is now four years old, and knows no stranger. She has a bubbly, contagious personality and a huge imagination!

“She can make anything into a toy!”, laughed Adrienne.

Dahlia is two and loves her big sister. At this age, she is climbing all over everything, “We can leave the room for two minutes to grab something, and she will have grabbed a chair, moved it to the counter and we will find her standing on top of the counter, digging in the cupboards when we return,” said Dennis, shaking his head.

Staying Busy Enjoying Life With two kids, the couple stays busy. But Adrienne also works part time and enjoys scrapbooking in her free time.

Dennis works as the Director of Operations at Engineered Marine Products (EMP), which engineers, manufactures and distributes marine engine parts worldwide.

“We hire interns from the local high schools to help

“We fell in love with the sense of community and kindness that you receive everywhere you go.”

-Dennis Torrealba

them develop their skills with the latest technology in Engineering,” Dennis said with pride. “We also work with the ARC of Shelby County by providing jobs for people who are part of their program.”

In his spare time, Dennis enjoys kickboxing with his buddies at The Garage in Alabaster. He and his wife also love searching for new places to eat in the city.

“And with the most unbiased comment ever in the history of the city, I enjoy testing video games at Press Start!”, Dennis interjected with a laugh. (Dennis is also the owner of Press Start, a popular gaming café in Alabaster.)

633 11th Ave SW Alabaster, AL 35005

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Around Town

Home Away From Home Being involved with so many aspects of the community, the Torrealbas feel that Alabaster is now a little like New Orleans for them.

“Almost every time we go out, whether it be the grocery store, the YMCA, or the movies, we run into someone we know! We love that,” said Adrienne. “We, of course, miss our friends, the food and festivals [in New Orleans], but are happy to be away from the potholes, crime and hurricanes!”.

Dennis agreed and added, “I would like to take the time to thank the Alabaster City Police, our firefighters, and EMS. Without them, we would not have such a safe community for our families.”

He continued, “We are happy to be here. We appreciate the overwhelming hospitality that our family has received. Alabaster has become our home.”

A Vision to Serve Boutique Bizarre Business Spotlight

With our proven systems and procedures, we can often

Mallory Harris and owner Danette Lindsey are proud of their unique store.

As more and more of the building’s natural beauty was exposed, a desire to open a boutique grew and grew in Lindsey.

“So I decided I would try my hand at furniture. I wanted to do something that Alabaster did not have,”With she said.

Her thinking our proven systems and p save 50% over other led her to open Boutique Bizarre. “There hasyou to be a market for com women’s and children’s clothing, and just a kind of all around  ofOne of nature. the most” misunderstoo store. Come and get a gift and buy things that This  In the water damage industry, thought stuck with her and when the day came, she stepped rental property or business fun out in faith and opened the store. while at the same time keepin Would you rather furhave your h Lindsey is an exclusive distributor forMagnolia Home dried 3 to hit 5 days, niture, designed by Joanna Gains, the star of thewithin HGTV TV in pla of all wet materials and recons show “Fixer Upper”. “We are the only authorized south months dealer to complete?

633 11th Ave . over other companies! save S.W you 50% Walking into Boutique Bizarre is like walking into One of thehouse. most misunderstood variables in any job is cost. an eclecticrelatives’ The variety of merchan In the water damage industry, our job is to keep your home, dise greets you as property you open the door – children’s rental or business functioning, safe andand healthy, while atfurniture, the same time keeping your costs down. women’s clothing, light fixtures hanging  Would you rather have your home or business and contents  As a home or business owner, from various points, artwork hanging on the walls, dried within 3 to 5 days, in place, or a complete tearing out and the safety of your employ combined with the ‘Welcome’ spoken of all wetfriendly materials and reconstruction taking deep sometimes drying out your property, vers months to complete? from within the inviting showroom, all add up to a unnecessary reconstruction ta  As a home or business owner, consider your productivity loss  The use of specialized drying e About Us diversely satisfying sense of home and the urge to buy and the safety of your employees or loved ones; a few days makes the initial drying proces DynoDry as is a family-owned and locally operated something. drying out your property, versus weeks or even months, structural drying, smoke remediating, roofing, less than those companies wh unnecessary reconstruction takes place.

Danettee Lindsey, of drying Boutique Bizarre, is moisture there and mold inspection company. We spe Our expertise is Drying in Pla The use ofowner specialized equipment and knowledge cialize using professional, scientific-drying methmakes the initial dryingus process cost higher but our overallinjob duration and cost could be as much as 50% nd locally operated materials and how they hold a to greet us and offers to show around the showediating, roofing, less than those companies who focus on unnecessary ods tear and out. equipment on every job and the latest constantly being developed to room while sharing her story and vision for expansion. to this area, requiring of construction  Our expertise is Drying in Place. This is a new concept company. We speWeknowledge Work With Most All Insuranceously Agencies. mold testing and extermination techniques. thought possible. cientific-drying methand how holdyears and release in the “Opening thematerials story has justthey been in themoisture making, ” air and surrounding materials. New technology is ob and the latest constantly being developed to dry materials faster and safer than previWAtEr DAmAgE In addition, with more than 15 years in the roofing rEStorAtion “I was an insurance producer for several What type of equipment do we n techniques. she explains. ously thought possible. industry, and as a GAF Certified Installer, roofing years. I have worn many hats with my kids in school DynoDry is the only phone call you will need to 5 years in the roofing What type of equipment do we use and what are our credentials? molD rEmEDiAtionThe most advanced drying and m procedures are used by DynoDry S fied Installer, and that nature, and at one point I did work with amake when water damage occurs, even from storm moiSturE/molD inSpEction ll you will need tofurniture company equipment available to our industr briefly.drying ” The most advanced and mold remediation damaged roofs. curs, even from storm We the IICRC Drying procedures are used by DynoDry Structural Drying, Inc. Weare useformally the besttrained and certified by StructurAl metering and monitoring systems The setting for the store is the old Siluria Mills Post The Southeastern Mold Institute (SEMI), equipment available to our industry, including an arrayand of the highest quality mold testing equipment are some ExtErior/intErior rEconStruction ertified by the IICRC Office, back near and themonitoring new municipal complex. metering systems available.

High “Origitemperature dehumidifiers, hardwood floorthe drying systems and as well as GAF Materials Corp., largest roofd Institute (SEMI), mold testing equipment are some of our standard toolsing in manufacturer which we have been certified trained. in North America.

Our goal, on Service AvailableWhat kind of experience do we nally, my husband and I wanted to invest in some com-and 24/7 Emergency rp., the largest roofevery job, is to use our specialized equipment and financing Available erica. Our goal, on What kind of experience do we have? mercial property and so we approached the ownerscertified of training to remediate water and/or mold, We at DynoDry Structural Drying I alized equipment and this building, the former Siluria Mills Post Office, put smoke damage or roofing issues. Our goal is to Call DynoDrycation courses taught by a leadin water and/or mold, We at DynoDry Structural Drying Inc. are formally trained and have completed their WRT/ASD IICRC certifitake the stress and hassle out of finding and dealues. Our goal is to an offer oncation it and got it.

When came in and started tified in mold inspection and reme courses taught by a we leading industry expert, which includes flood house training. In addition, we are cering with multiple, unreliable, trained t of finding and dealsion, we are a GAF Certified Ins tified in mold inspection and remediation by Southeastern Mold Institute (SEMI). improperly As for our roofing dividoing some improvements, we were just blown away at mproperly trained during a timeand of installation a disastrous event. so sion, we are a GAF Certified Installer, which meanscontractors, we use the best materials techniques, we can provide our customers one David Grill, Independent Owner a disastrous event.

Find outinmore when you visit Our our team website the potential that was our here, ” she exclaimed. build-available we can provide customers one of the bestThe warranties the roofing has at a com75 plus years of constructi He is a lifeindustry. long Alabaster resident, thompson bined High School graduate ‘85, visit our website at bined 75 plus years of construction, drying and roofing experience. ww.dynodry.com ing has beautifully exposed brick around the doorways, uAB graduate ‘91, & has over 25 years in the construction industry. ry.com the high ceiling looks down from above with naturally Southeastern colored wooden slats, and the floor is a stained pa- To speak with one of our Mold certified of our certified Institute, Inc. tina concrete that the Lindseys uncovered when they professionals CERTIFIED nals call 205-623-0151 3-0151 removed the old tile flooring. The building was just oozing with a hidden elegance. www.dynodry.com

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26 cityofalabaster.com

of Birmingham,” Lindsey proudly proclaimed. The goal of this line isn’t just designing furniture, but the point is to create “timeless pieces that help tell your home story.”

Boutique Bizarre has been open since the middle of June and is already gaining a reputation as a fantastic place to shop and stroll through. “The reaction has been very positive,” said Lindsey. “We have had a lot of foot traffic. People are really excited about having a store like ours. Hopefully, this is a starting point with the city’s goal of moving everything forward.

We are hoping this will be a starting point for more small local businesses.”

Expansions Plans With a little over a month under her belt, Lindsey is already making plans to expand the facility into something more. Currently, the boutique is taking up a quarter of the total building.

As she leads a tour of the unfinished portion of the building, she shares her vision. “We will make this half of the building an event side - we are going to call it the Olde Post Office Event Center at Siluria Mills. We will host weddings, receptions, parties and any kind of gathering. It will be able to host 150 people or so,” she explains. They are adding additional bathrooms, a caterer’s kitchen, a wooden barn door and will create a new doorway that will lead out into the garden area under the shade of several large, old trees.

As we avoid construction material, she leads us back to the former loading dock for the post office. “We will add a coffee shop here, with outdoor seating, and expand the showroom, especially for furniture, into this portion of the building,” she says, while navigating the former post office doors. Lindsey’s vision is breathtaking. She and her husband already have vacant lots they are looking to build on along the train tracks.

The goal is to have shops and offices on the ground floor with loft apartments and condos on the upper floors.

A Child’s Love None of this would be possible if it wasn’t for a special little girl. “When I was thinking about stepping out, my niece, Mallory Harris, had a child with special needs. I asked Mallory if she was willing to help me out if her daughter was able to come to work with us. Aria was the reason that I had the courage to step out,” Lindsey said. In no time, Aria shows up with her big sister to help her mother Mallory tend the store. There is a playpen in the office and toys tucked away in the corner.

“I don’t know,” Lindsey reflects. “I just didn’t want it to be a selfish thing that I did for myself. The store is really just a coop of people helping other people.”

Boutique Bazaar 633 11th Ave S.W 205.624.3229

Visit Boutique Bazaar on Facebook at www.facebook.com/boutiquebazaar1

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Non-Profit Offers Free Workshop Many Infinities Alabaster Helps

Many Infinities, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is dedicated to supporting the estimated 100 million Americans who suffer from autoimmune diseases. As part of this support, they will be hosting their second Autoimmune All Infinitely You workshop. “All Infinitely You Program activities,” shared founder and director Deven Woods, “are led by industry professionals. The focus for the August workshop is Helpful Skills and Resources, as well as Juvenile Support. Registered participants will learn a proven and easy way to record and share medical information throughout families and with physicians. They will also take a hands-on look at the connection between immune health and nutritional choices and begin the path to effectively coping and communicating.”

Woods sees the importance of offering seminars such as this to the community. “In March of 2016, Many Infinities launched the Infinitely You-Health and Wellness Program to provide the tools and resources for families battling one or more auto-immune diagnoses to effectively manage and play a proactive role in their health care, thus reducing the disability and mortality rate among patients, and encouraging all patients to accept their ‘new normal’ and live as productively as possible,” shared Woods.

Autoimmunity is a misdirection of the immune system that leads it to believe the human body and all its parts are foreign and harmful, thus causing the immune system to attack the human body tissue. “This type of attack is responsible for the development of at least 100 conditions, known as autoimmune diseases or disorders,” Woods explained.

The majority of patients are female, up to 75%. According to Woods, the number of people suffering from these types of diseases falls just behind cancers and heart disease. Some of these autoimmunity illnesses are: Rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus, Type1 diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis, Scleroderma, Grave’s disease, Myasthenia gravis, Sarcoidosis, Polymyositis, Transverse myelitis, Psoriasis, Vitiligo, Sjogrens and Endometriosis.

Woods’ motivation comes from the example she sees around her. “I am always amazed by a person’s will to live in spite of their illness. I don’t mean survive.

One can survive by simply breathing. I mean LIVE abundantly, despite the obstacles. These illnesses are devastating. They change everything about you and even threaten your very existence. However, I encounter men, women and children, all the time, who are so determined to LIVE that they push beyond the pain

28 cityofalabaster.com

Autoimmunity is a misdirection of the immune system that leads it to believe the human body and all its parts are foreign and harmful, thus causing the immune system to attack the human body tissue. and fear. They ignore the stares and the opinions of people who don’t understand. They put on a brave face and make the choice to LIVE in that day, even in that hour. I’m so excited about the charge to make living easier. I’m excited about the idea that someday, somewhere, someone is going to wake up one morning, knowing that they could be suffering, but they’re not, because we’ve cured Autoimmunity,” Woods boldly states.

If you are interested in participating in this or future events, please email: getinvolved@manyinfinities.org.

“Infinitely You” event registration is available at www.manyinfinities.org.

Residential Beautification Winner 222 Silver Creek Horace and Linda Harper at 222 Silver Creek Parkway are proud to boast the yard of month in Alabaster. It takes hard work, and dedication to have a yard that earns this distinction. The well manicured lawn is highlighted by the unique shrubs and hedges that line the flower beds. Congratulations for making Alabaster beautiful Harpers!

August 6th is the LAST Saturday for the market this season!

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Featuring:

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Hands on educational program for kids

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cityofalabaster.com *EBT and Senior Vouchers accepted

Around Town

Spa One80 Ribbon Cutting

Garage Kickboxing gym

Spa One80 cut the ribbon on a dream by official opening to the public. Located next to the AmStar movie theater at the Promenade they offer a full line of services and on sight care. They offer hair, nails, facials, and massage services. They boast the latest trends and the up to date techniques. For more information visit them on facebook.com/spaone80

When you are tired and bored of the standard work out routines you might want to try Garage Kickboxing gym. Located at 121 Buck Creek Plaza they offer a full body workout while learning proper kickboxing technique in only 30 minutes. No class times.

Trainer Included! You can find out more by visiting them online facebook.com/Garagekickboxing or by dropping by for a session.

Girl Scouts Recognized

Dangers of a hot car

Mayor Marty Handlon was proud to award a challenge coin and issue a proclamation recognizing their efforts to serve the community through service projects. These young ladies offered up their time, talents, and treasures to make our city and surrounding area a nicer place to live.

On a hot day during the month of July the Alabaster Fire Department demonstrated the devastating effects of being in a car during a hot Alabama summer day. Chip Brantley braved being stuck in a vehicle without any air flow for almost 30 minutes to show the what would happen to the human body during that time. His blood pressure rose, his core body temperature rose, and his body dealt with lose of fluid. Please check the back seat before you leave your car and make sure your children and pets are never left in a car without the proper attention.

30 cityofalabaster.com

City of Alabaster 1953 Municipal Way Alabaster, AL 35007 www.cityofalabaster.com 664-6800

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

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

Rick Walters, Ward 4 281-7394 | walters@cityofalabaster.com Russell Bedsole, Ward 5 205-229-6021 | bedsole@cityofalabaster.com Scott Brakefield, President, Ward 6 685-0302 | brakefield@cityofalabaster.com Tommy Ryals, Ward 7 664-1301 | ryals@cityofalabaster.com

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