Alabaster Connection December 2018 by me2graphicsllc

ALABASTER

CONNECTION THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF ALABASTER | DECEMBER 2018

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ALABASTER FIRST pg. 12

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FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF ALABASTER Alabaster Connection is published monthly and is delivered to citizens of the City of Alabaster. Editorial Board The Public Relations Committee of the Alabaster City Council. Committee Chair Councilwoman Sophie Martin Councilwoman Kerri Pate Councilman Greg Farrell Editor Luke Camara, me2graphics, LLC Contributors Shana Camara Lindsay Schluntz Megan Owens Lynn Barnett

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

To advertise call 447-2214 Non-Emergency City Numbers Police 24-Hours 663-7401

Another calendar year ending, and a new one beginning…We continue to trust that God is in control even when we can’t see His work in progress. I am truly thankful for so many things about our city and community, those which set us apart from others. The moment we focus on all that is good, lovely, honorable, and true, the spirit of the Season will shine. So, if you Marty Handlon, find yourself feeling the blues during this Advent season, press in—go through the motions of volunteering, connecting with people, and serving Mayor City of Alabaster others. I promise you will experience the JOY of the season and a Christmas miracle! “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 I am excited to announce we have selected an Architectural Firm for the design of our new Justice Center, which will house the Alabaster Police Department and Municipal Court. This month, our City Council approved funding and authorized us to engage Williams Blackstock Architects. This is the same firm used by two sister cities in the Metro area, Vestavia Hills and Mountain Brook, for the design of their municipal facilities. We will begin the conceptual and design phase in the next few weeks. At this point, our desire is to put this facility on property currently owned by the city. We will be sharing updates as this important project progresses. As we approach the season for lots of cooking and holiday events, our Environmental Services team has asked we post reminders for our community about the costly damage caused by grease down the drain. Please take advantage of our grease recycle program, and save real tax payer dollars reducing costly repairs to our pump stations. Recycle container pickup and drop-off stations are conveniently located around the city. We also take great pride in doubling the savings by using the recycled grease to create bio-diesel for use in city equipment. Thank you for your participation in these efforts!! Thanksgiving shopping festivities were interrupted for retailers located in Hoover’s Galleria Mall, and pretty scary for many shoppers present on Thanksgiving night. All of those involved are in our thoughts and prayers, as details are sorted out and investigated. We want to remind everyone to remain alert and aware of your surroundings as you are out shopping during this busy season. Alabaster remains committed to doing all we can to provide a safe city for your enjoyment and shopping pleasure, but we need your help. We will have plenty of public safety presence at the Promenade throughout the holiday season. Please don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from any of these public servants if you feel the least bit uncomfortable going in and out of the stores. It is their honor and pleasure to serve and protect you. Add the non-emergency number to your cell phone for assistance in times such as these: 663-7401. On a brighter note, we thank Ms. Mayo Taylor for agreeing to be our Grand Marshall for this year’s Christmas Parade! She is truly an inspiration to all who have the pleasure of knowing her. Merry Christmas Alabaster! See you at the parade!

Alabaster Water Board 663-6155 Fire Department 664-6818

THIS EDITION

FEATURES

4 Council Comments 24 Around Town 26 Beautification Board 27 Calendar 30 CC Meeting Minutes

6 Santa Stop Schedule 9 Tour of Lights 10 Christmas Cookies 11 Wrapping Tips 12 Shop Alabaster First

SPOTLIGHTS

17 Business Spotlight 18 Employee Spotlight 20 Citizen Spotlight 22 Alabaster Helps

COUNCIL COMMENTS

Scott Brakefield

Ward 6 | City Council President As we end the calendar year, the City of Alabaster is just now finishing up our first fiscal quarter. With sales tax making up the bulk of our city's revenue, it is always important to keep our tax dollars local and Shop Alabaster First. Every dollar you spend here goes into important city services like first responders, parks, roadways and our library. One percent of our sales tax is also earmarked for the Alabaster Board of Education, which uses these funds for our city schools.  I am pleased to share that we have selected an architectural firm to design a new Justice Building. This new facility will allow our police to have a modern building that fits the needs of our city today and into the future, while also combining with the municipal court, allowing these complementary services to reside under one roof. We will not have to purchase new property for this project, but will utilize city-owned land.  Our Thompson Warriors haven't played for a State Title in Football since 1982! They have been on an unbelievable run the past two years. This is the year that it ends with the ultimate goal, a State Championship. I hope to see Alabaster show up big on December 5th in Auburn. Our team needs our support! Go Warriors.  As we enter the holiday season, I want to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! May you find time to enjoy your family, friends and all that our great city has to offer.  Scott

Sophie Martin | Ward 1

Congratulations to Soldiers of the Cross who recently opened their doors for their first church service since a fire severely damaged the church back in February. We truly appreciate everything they do for our community! Almost 100 Alabaster residents and their families attended our annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner held at the First United Methodist Church of Alabaster. The event is sponsored by the Jesus Works Shelby County Trust and Outreach Ministry. Thank you to all the volunteers who helped make this special event a memorable one! Congratulations to the Thompson Warrior football team and coaching staff on an outstanding season! A strong sense of pride remains in our city for the many accomplishments of our own school system. It’s exciting to see how far we’ve come and I look forward to what the future holds. Go Warriors! The opportunity to serve Ward 1 residents and the City of cityofalabaster.com

Alabaster is truly a gift. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a blessed New Year. Sophie

Rick Ellis | Ward 2 Merry Christmas! I hope that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends. As we move into the Christmas holiday season, there are some things to be sure to remember. First is the Alabaster Christmas Parade. This year’s parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 1st. It is a great event and my family and I look forward to seeing everyone each year. We are definitely looking forward to it again this year! Secondly, please remember to congratulate the members of the Thompson High School football program on another outstanding year! They will be playing for their first state championship since 1982 on December 5th in Auburn. It has really been a lot of fun watching these guys all year! They are a special group and they have brought a lot of positive recognition to our community. So, whether you can be at the game on the 5th or not, be sure to cheer them on to bring home the state championship. Go Warriors! I would like everyone to welcome our new City Clerk, Mark Frey. He comes to us from Columbiana, and will be a tremendous asset to our community. Finally, remember to Shop Alabaster First while doing your holiday shopping. My family and I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas! “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11. Rick

Stacy Rakestraw | Ward 3 Over the next five months, we will be deciding and preparing to implement alternatives for residents to clean out and carry away junk and rubbish from their homes due to the changes in our curbside pick-up. After many years of being the only city in Shelby County to offer this service, the council has voted to remove and replace this service. This change is due to recommendations from the Director of Public Works and regulations from ADEM as we manage our storm water runoff and requests from the Shelby County Landfill to have all excess trash separated. We will continue to pick up bagged leaves, bagged grass clippings, limbs, and brush. Our goal is to continue having a beautiful, growing city that is managed in a financially conservative way. Look for updates in this newsletter and on the City’s social media pages about

COUNCIL COMMENTS new services and options as we finalize the details over the next few months. I want to welcome Mark Frey as our new City Clerk. Congratulations to Coach Mark Freeman and the Thompson Football team on an incredible, history-making season. This season it was exciting to watch these talented athletes play football from our new stadium facilities. Thank you for all of your hard work and dedication. Feel free to email or call with any questions. Have a very Merry Christmas! For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 10-14 Stacy

Greg Farrell

| Ward 4 I would like to congratulate the Evangel Christian School Football team on winning the 2018 NHSA National Championship this year. Along with the great success that the Thompson Warriors are having this year, we as a community are very proud of the success that our private schools are having as well. I would like to congratulate Captain Ken Henry on his recent retirement from the Alabaster Fire Department after his service of 27 years. Captain Henry began his service to the city as a Volunteer firefighter and worked his way up to Captain. Thank you for your service and enjoy the next chapter in your life. As we come to the end of another year, I want to thank all of our City Employees for their dedication and hard work this past year. Though sometimes things may not have been perfect at times, they accepted the challenges and persevered. Thank you for your service to the citizens and the City. I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Greg

On a more serious note, this can be a difficult season for some families in our city. Some may be dealing with the loss of a loved one, or even struggling to provide for their family. If you know of someone who may need some assistance, please lend a hand if you can, or let someone know how they can help. We have so many wonderful churches and charitable groups that may be able to help in a big way. There is one thing our citizens do well - we help those who need a hand.  Thanks Alabaster for another great year! Russell

Kerri Pate

| Ward 7 Hello friends & neighbors, I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Ours was quite memorable, as our happy Thanksgiving day ended with a tragic event when my mother-in-law sustained a life threatening injury as the result of the terrible incident at the Galleria. She has a long road to recovery and I want to thank so many of you who have reached out with well wishes and prayers. Sometimes you are in the wrong place at the wrong time, but sometimes you are in the wrong place with the right people around, which she was. Our family is so grateful for the goodness and grace even in trying times. It is so tempting to remain in the comfort and safety of our own homes and shop on-line - of course it is certainly warranted sometimes - but please remember to Shop Alabaster First. Those dollars are a driving force for our city and schools . The Thompson Warrior football players and coaches make us proud. We haven’t been this close to that blue map since the 80’s! No matter the outcome, these memories are cherished and so much fun for the entire student body and community. Thanks guys! This season I am so grateful for the joyous birth of my Savior, Jesus, and I will never forget the sorrow of His death so that we may live. Happy birthday Jesus & Merry CHRISTmas to you all. Kerri

Russell Bedsole | Ward 5 Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, Alabaster. It honestly feels as though I just wrote my November thoughts to you. What a terrific year it has been, but it sure has flown by.  Our annual Christmas parade is a true gem to our city. This is the biggest and best in Shelby County, and it's all for you. I hope you will grab a spot early along the parade route and get ready to officially kick off the holiday season with the rest of your city.

CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

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

FOR MORE ON THE CITY COUNCIL

Visit www.cityofalabaster.com/161/City-Council

cityofalabaster.com

FEATURE

HO HO

SANTA

STOP 2018

anta’s helpers at the Alabaster Fire Department are busy preparing for the touring routes of Santa Claus throughout the City’s neighborhoods. The event, which takes place December 24th (Christmas Eve), continues to be one that the fire department eagerly looks forward to, and one that the community of Alabaster has enjoyed for many years. This year will be no exception. The guys at AFD continue giving extra time and effort to make sure all goes well and everyone in the City, “naughty or nice,” has an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the, ‘Jolly Ole’ Elf!’ However, ‘The Touring of Santa Routes’ grows bigger each year. “The continuous cityofalabaster.com

DEC. 24

growth and diversity of our great city causes us to change and adapt as well. We realize that some of our citizens plan Christmas Eve around ‘the touring of Santa.’ We’ve spent extra time and effort planning and preparing for this in hopes that all goes very well! We want everyone to see Santa that wants to,” says Chief Tim Love. So with that in mind, here are some route facts and information: • Look for yellow and red Santa Stop signs in your neighborhood (strategically placed beginning Dec. 1) • Santa will stop at these sites only! • Stop time is 5-7 min. at each site • Routes will begin at approx. 1:00 pm • Routes will end at approx. 8:00 pm

•

Check the “City of Alabaster” website, Facebook page and also the AFD Instagram page for updates on where Santa is. Click on “Fire and Rescue” then “Santa Routes” updated every 15 minutes. (cityofalabaster.com) Please remember that the Fire Department is still responsible for responding to our emergencies during the routes. Therefore, in the event they are called to an emergency, Santa route scheduling will be altered. Any questions please contact Lt. Chad Trautwein @ AFRS 621-8752 or ctrautwein@alabasterfire.org or Battalion Chief Dan Hornkohl @ AFRS 621-8752. ▶

FEATURE

Schedule The following are the estimated times that Santa will arrive in the listed areas of the City. Please be looking for Santa thirty (30) minutes before and after his estimated time of arrival. Also, due to the growth of our City, Santa will be limited on his stops. We ask that you gather near the designated (red & yellow) Santa Stop signs. Santa will not be able to stop at individual homes, or go on every street in each neighborhood. We apologize for the changes and any inconveniences. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. We want to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas. 1:00 PORTSOUTH CEDAR GROVE KINGWOOD/SPRING GATE NORWICK FOREST 1:30 STERLING GATE 1:40 NORTHWEST OLD TOWNE 1:45 MEADOWLARK WILLOW CREEK WILLOW POINT 1:50 CEDAR GROVE MHP 2:00 WOODLAND HILLS SOUTHWIND 2:30 NAVAJO HILLS AMBERLY WOODS AUTUMN RIDGE CAMBRIDGE POINT 1 SUMMER BROOK 2:35 CHINABERRY 2:40 GREENFIELD 2:45 EAGLEWOOD ESTATES 3:00 THE VIEW APARTMENTS 3:10 APPLEGATE TOWNHOMES 3:15 CAMBRIDGE POINT 2 ASHFORD HEIGHTS LACEY’S GROVE 3:20 NORTHEAST (BROWN CIRCLE/HILLWOOD AREA) 3:30 FALLING WATERS 3:35 SHALIMAR POINTE 3:40 BERMUDA LAKE KNOX MHP 3:50 MAYLENE 4:00 PEAVINE MHP GRANDE VIEW GARDENS 4:10 GRANDE VIEW

ESTATES 4:15 LAKE TERRACE 4:20 WELLINGTON MANOR 4:25 APACHE RIDGE BERRYHILL 4:35 WEATHERLY SOUTHWEST 4:45 NAVAJO PINES 5:15 STONEY MEADOWS 5:20 CEDAR MEADOWS 5:30 FOX VALLEY FARMS 5:40 SILURIA 5:45 1ST AVE & 2000 BLOCK MAPLEWOOD SHADY OAK LANE 5:55 WOODBROOK APARTMENTS MAPLE RIDGE 6:00 SMOKE RIDGE 6:10 BUCK CREEK LANDING MISSION HILLS 6:15 TANGLEWOOD SOUTH – EAST IRONWOODS 6:20 DOUGLAS MEADOWS 6:25 WYNLAKEE-16 6:30 TIMBER RIDGE PARK PLACE 6:45 STAGE COACH THE MEADOWS 6:55 KEYSTONE MHP 7:00 DOGWOOD FOREST FOREST HILLS 7:10 KENTWOOD SILVER CREEK 7:15 SHELBY FARMS

7:20 BETTY SNOW 7:25 SOUTH FIELD GARDENS 7:30 SCOTTSDALE LAKE FOREST 7:35 SOUTH FORTY GOLDEN MEADOWS 7:45 PARK FOREST BACK SECTOR 7:50 SADDLE LAKES 8:05 TERRI-LYNN MHP 8:10 GREEN VALLEY 8:15 PARK FOREST VILLAGE

8:25 MEADOWVIEW WILLOW GLEN 8:30 CROSSCUT RD AND SAWMILL TRACE RD MOUNTAIN LAKES CARRIAGE HILLS 8:35 CROSSCUT RD AND CARRIAGE LANE WISTERIA 8:40 THE GROVE 8:55 WINDY OAKS

cityofalabaster.com

Alabaster Tour of Lights The Beautification Board would like to thank everyone for participating this year and encourage the citizens of Alabaster to enjoy the tour beginning on December 1. 322 Tradewinds Circle 107.5 FM

200 Leaf Lane 125 Little Fawn Lane 1813 Arrow Drive 88.3 FM 210 Ironwood Circle (Musical) 121 Mayfair Park KOLD 106.3 149 Ashford Way

2164 N. Grande View Ln 87.9 FM 241 Grande View Lane 238 Grande View Lane 234 Grande View Lane 233 Grande View Lane

297 Fran Drive 616 Barkley Circle 235 Forest Parkway 88.5 FM 909 Barkley Drive 100 Forest Parkway *Musical Light Shows in Red* cityofalabaster.com

FEATURE

BAKING COOKIES: A SWEET SCIENCE

ver Christmas break, your kiddos (or grand-kiddos!) may want to simply turn off their brains. But while you have them at home, take advantage of the many everyday opportunities you have to teach them something new! For example, an activity as simple as baking Christmas cookies together could turn into an educational opportunity learning the science of baking could be a lot of fun! Here are five tips on the finer points of cookie-making:

THICK OR THIN? The shape of the dough, and the time and temperature that you bake with, will affect the size and texture of your finished product. Get thicker, softer cookies by baking round balls of dough or using a shorter baking time and a higher temperature. Thinner, crispier cookies come from flattened balls of dough with a lower temperature and a longer time baking.

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EVERY INGREDIENT COUNTS Did you know the amount of flour in a cookie affects its texture, making it chewy, crispy or crumbly? If you love a chewy cookie, the molasses in the brown sugar may be one of your favorite ingredients! The white sugar in a recipe can’t fully dissolve during its time being stirred in the bowl. Instead, it finishes dissolving while in the oven, which – along with the butter in the recipe – is what causes the dough to spread out from a ball of dough into the flatter baked cookie shape.

A SWEET REACTION Once the sugars in the dough have melted into a liquid, they begin to caramelize, which helps give the cookies their brown color and fragrant aroma. Then, the Maillard Reaction occurs when proteins in the eggs and flour react with the sugars in the high heat, resulting in a rich, nutty flavor phenomenon!

WHAT A GAS! According to Fine Cooking, baking soda and baking powder serve two completely different purposes, and the science of how they work is fascinating! Baking soda serves to help the cookie brown up in the oven, as it neutralizes the acidic

ingredients in the dough that could inhibit browning, including vanilla, butter, honey and brown sugar. Baking powder, on the other hand, when heated with wet ingredients, creates a reaction between the alkali and acid in the powder, creating carbon dioxide gas. This gas aerates the dough as it pushes through tiny little holes to escape, creating a puffier cookie!

STORING LEFTOVERS... IF THEY EXIST! Before putting the cookies in the cookie jar, be sure to allow them to cool completely. Trapping the steam in the storage container – think, evaporation and condensation! – will turn your perfectly crisp cookies, mushy… and we can’t have that!

HOW SWEET IT IS... If you don’t get a chance to bake your own goodies to snack on or to give as a sweet gift in the hustle and bustle of the season, feel free to give The Cookie Cakery a call (205-427-5776) to order a dozen of their delectable, perfectly baked and decorated cookies, cakes or pies! You can check out their photo gallery of treats at www.thecookiecakery.net. AC

Wrap It Up

Hallmark Celebrates the Season of Giving with Gift-Wrapping Tips & Tricks ne of the hallmarks of the holidays is watching gifts magically appear under Christmas trees throughout the month of December. We never really grow out of the thrill of shaking each box to guess what’s inside! But one thing is for sure – the niftier the gift looks, the more thrilling it is to dream about opening it! Make your gifts the ones that elicit the most excited anticipation by applying some of these gift-wrapping tips from the Christmas present professionals at Hallmark:

No Names Needed

Size Matters

A super simple way to make your presents look polished and perfect, is to crease the edges of the wrapped box before adding a beautiful bow. Pinch each corner of the box between your finger and thumb and slide from end to end for that crisply folded edge. When making the bow for the top, a wire-edge ribbon (usually found in the sewing section of the store) will hold its shape and comes in a variety of eye-catching colors, textures and patterns.

Using too little paper leaves gaps, prematurely revealing the gift inside. Using too much paper results in thick, often unsightly, bulges on the folds. To cut the correct amount of paper from a roll, wrap the paper around the box, with the ends slightly overlapping. Make sure the paper comes up a little more than halfway on the sides of the box. If you’re going to make an error, err on the side of slicing too much paper off a roll… you can always trim later!

Make It Stick

A dispenser that is indispensable, is one that holds your double-sided tape. A long enough piece of double-sided tape can invisibly secure the paper along the edges and folds. You could also use matte gift wrap tape, but once you’ve applied this tape to the package, gently rub over the tape to make it virtually disappear onto the paper.

When wrapping multiple gifts for multiple people, select a different color wrapping paper for each person. This is a fun, no-nametag way for family members to identify their gifts under the tree. It also lends itself to letting smaller children participate in handing out gifts to the right people around the tree on Christmas morning (blue gifts to Daddy, red gifts to Grandma, etc.)

The Finishing Touches

Now Is the Time to Begin

This time of year can come with a lot of added stress. Avoid letting gift-wrapping

become a part of that by wrapping gifts as you purchase them. Use sticky notes or assign specific paper colors for each person, so you know whose is whose, and when you have time, you can add the ribbons, bows, and personalized tags later.

Bag It Up

If you’re in a time crunch or you find a fun gift bag, simply roll your present up in tissue paper and fold in the flaps on each end before placing it in the bag. To make a perfect puff of paper at the top of the bag, lay one piece of tissue paper on a clean surface. Lay another contrasting color or patterned tissue on top of it at a cockeyed angle. Pinch the middle of the papers and quickly pull them up together. Gently twist the pinched paper centers together and drop the twisted end into the top of the gift bag…easy and lovely! If you’re feeling inspired to make your Christmas gifts the prettiest packages under the tree, visit Amy’s Hallmark Shop in Alabaster’s Southbrook Village Shopping Center to find fabulous paper, ribbon, tissue, giftbags, cards and the perfect presents to wrap up for your family and friends!

AMY’S HALLMARK SHOP Southbrook Village Shopping Center 422 1st St SW, Alabaster 205-621-6271 Monday – Saturday 9:30 am – 8:00 pm Sunday: 1 pm – 5 pm

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FEATURE

Make a “Ta Dah!” List While Shopping Alabaster First on Hwy 119

t’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, which means your to-do list is likely getting longer by the minute! One of those items on your list likely includes shipping off carefully packaged gifts to family and friends, far and wide. With the Alabaster Post Office conveniently located on Highway 119, take advantage of all the great places to shop Alabaster First this Christmas, as you turn your to-do list into a “tah-dah” list!

MARC-1 CAR WASH Open Monday – Saturday: 7 am - 8 pm Open Sunday: 9 am - 7 pm Whether you’re traveling over the river and through the woods, or simply driving to the office Christmas party, you don’t want to show up in a dirty sleigh! Stop by Marc 1 Car Wash to find options like free vacuum use with wash, tire shine and wheel cleaner, rain repellant, wax, and buff dry to get your car sparkling like a shiny silver bell! While you’re there, join the Unlimited Wash Club monthly subscription so you can drive your vehicle through the automatic wash tunnel as often as you like. Be sure to purchase gift certificates for those hard-to-shop-for people on your list!

SALON 119

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Open Monday – Friday: 10 am - 7 pm Open Saturday: 9 am - 6 pm Open Sunday: 1 pm - 6 pm ‘Tis the season for family photos on Christmas cards, so to get closeup ready, schedule an appointment or simply walk-in to the privately owned and operated Salon 119. Boasting a team of professional stylists, Salon 119 offers affordable cuts, colors and stunning styles, that will get you looking and feeling your best all season long! On Tuesdays, all adult haircuts are only $10, so be sure to stop by and help your shopping budget stretch just a little further. ▶

FEATURE

NAIL VIP Open Monday – Saturday: 9 am - 7 pm Open Sunday: 12 pm - 5 pm Handing out gifts, extending welcoming hands to guests, and capturing photos of jewelry and engagement rings are all reasons to ensure your hands are polished and on-point this month. Take some time for yourself at Nail VIP for a manicure and hand massage from friendly technicians like Kevin, Lily or Pam. Add a pedicure, leg massage, eyebrow wax, or other pampering services to get you relaxed and ready.

SHAGGY CHIC PET GROOMING Open Monday – Friday: 7:30 am - 5 pm If you are a puppy-parent, call owner Tonya Lammons to schedule a grooming appointment for your dog, or take advantage of walk-in spa specials, including a Pawdicure (paw maintenance, nail grind/trim and nail polish), Nail and Ear Care (ear cleaning/plucking, nail grind/trim, cologne), or the Primp’N’Go (sani-shave, paw maintenance, brush out, ear cleaning and teeth brushing).

BARK BAKE LOVE TREATS Also, remember to book your Santa Paws session at Shaggy Chic right now! Your puppy’s professional, private Christmas photo shoot with Santa will be booked December 8th or 10th, space is limited. And as you’re shopping for gifts for your children, don’t forget to fill your fur-baby’s stocking with gourmet, organic treats available at (or special ordered from) Shaggy Chic through Bark Bake Love Treats. Choose from homemade birthday cakes, pupcakes, pupcicles, personalized bones and other treats.

LJ’S RETAIL THERAPY Open Monday – Saturday: 9 am - 7 pm Open Sunday: 12 pm - 6 pm Kenlee Hood and Lindsey Labovitz have “…an undeniable love of everything fashion,” and as such, they offer LJ’s Retail Therapy as the place to find apparel and gifts that will satisfy the fashion-forward family and friends on your gift list this year! From onesies to ornaments, t-shirts to tunics, kimonos to candles, you’ll find shopping to be a pleasant experience… and you just might find a present for yourself in the process! ▶

cityofalabaster.com

THE GARAGE KICKBOXING Open Monday – Thursday: 8 am - 12:30 pm, 2 pm - 8 pm Open Friday: 8 am - 12:30 pm, 2 pm - 5 pm Open Saturday: 8 am - 2 pm With New Year’s resolutions for health and wellness coming right around the corner, it’s not too soon to start getting fit and fabulous! For only $70 a month, you can get unlimited personalized sessions at The Garage Kickboxing studio to help you reach your “New Year, New You" health goals. Stop in to work off some holiday stress, to strengthen your muscles to lift that turkey out of the oven, or to purchase a Christmas gift certificate for a special someone to take advantage of in 2019!

PARK PLACE CLEANERS Open Monday – Friday: 7 am - 6 pm Open Saturday: 9 am - 1 pm Remember that beautiful dress or that posh tux you bought to wear at the Christmas parties that you’re looking forward to? Get it looking and smelling fresh and clean after a quick stint at Park Place Cleaners. This neat and clean location offers a quick walk-in process to drop off your dry cleaning, as well as a convenient drive-through option! It doesn’t get any easier than that.

KRISTALIZE JEWELRY

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Open Monday – Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm If you’re looking for stunning handmade pieces of show-stopping jewelry sure to impress and thrill the ladies (or even the gentlemen) on your Christmas gift list, be sure to add a visit to Kristalize Jewelry to your list. Every trendy piece is so gorgeously handmade, the brand has become popular with Hollywood A-listers like Carrie Underwood, Thomas Rhett and others. You can find a selection of Kristalize Jewelry at Frou Frou Boutique in Alabaster, as well. ▶

BEDAZZLE ME MORE BOUTIQUE Open Tuesday – Friday: 10 am - 6 pm Open Saturday: 10 am - 2 pm Part of the traditional fun of Christmas morning is waking up in your special personalized pajamas that you can stay cozy in all day long! Bedazzle Me More Boutique specializes in embroidery, monogramming, rhinestones and screen printing for all of your special occasions. Bring in your family’s matching pajamas to have customized for lazy days or family photos around the Christmas tree. Pick out stylish shirts, dresses, tunics, jackets or vests, and design your own special selection of apparel for the season. And while you’re there, you can also add your favorite Thompson Warrior design to bags and other items as a stellar gift for your favorite student!

CHAMPY’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN BLUES, BREWS, & BIRD

Let our family care for yours.

Open Monday – Thursday: 11 am - 10 pm Open Friday – Saturday: 11 am - 11 pm; Sunday: 11 am - 9 pm After a long day of turning your to-list into a “to-done” list, who needs to cook?! Instead, you deserve to kick-back, relax, and enjoy some live music in the welcoming dining atmosphere of Champy’s. Enjoy hand-rolled tamales, fried-fresh chicken, homemade Southern sides, sweet dessert options, and hard-to-beat brews. Known for their made-from-scratch menu, Champy’s is the perfect place for you and your Christmasshopping pals to wrap up a successful day. AC

CALVIN SPELLMON, JR, M.D. Sports Medicine

An expert in his field, to get you back on the field Weekend warriors, high school heroes, and dedicated spectators with injuries or chronic pain deserve quality of care worthy of the pros. Dr. Calvin Spellmon is board certified and highly experienced in that type of care. His specialties include fracture care, sports-related trauma care, work-related injuries, and tendon injuries, among many others. So the care he’s delivered to professional and elite athletes can get you back on the field—whatever your field happens to be.

To book an appointment, please call (205) 663-8590 or visit bbhcarenetwork.com.

831 1st Street North, Alabaster, AL 35007 • (205) 663-8590

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Jessie Hoover

Lindsey Quinn

Cosmetologist

Beth Davis

Tori Chance

Owner/Cosmetologist

Cosmetologist

Visit our new website!

www.hairwaytoheaven.net 128 Market Center Drive, Suite 124, Alabaster, 35007 Located between Restore and H & R Block in the old Winn Dixie shopping center

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

ALABASTER’S ICE CREAM SCENE IS ON A ROLL! M.Z. Ice Cream Roll

f you’ve not yet spent the time traveling to Hoover or Birmingham to try out the (rightfully!) popular trend of ice cream rolls, you now have a reason to stay close to home! Alabaster’s own M.Z. Ice Cream Roll opened in the Buck Creek Plaza in July of 2018, and has become a local hot spot to get this cool treat. Originally known in Thailand as “fried” ice cream, since it is made atop a frozen metal tray, Thai ice cream rolls are individually created for each customer based on their own unique flavor choices. The base of the ice cream rolls can be a vanilla cream, or a flavored creamer like matcha green tea, chocolate, taro, coconut, lychee (Chinese fruit), or even coffee. Then let the creativity begin! Choose your mix-ins to create flavors like Crazy Cookie (Oreos), Lemon Pie (fresh lemon, graham cracker), S’More Crunch (marshmallow, graham cracker, chocolate sauce), or The Sweetheart (fresh strawberries). MIX IT, MASH IT, ROLL IT UP Once you’ve created your concoction, you get to watch as the liquid base is poured onto the ice-cold tray and stirred until it begins to thicken. Using two flat metal spatulas, the fruits or cookies are then chopped up and thoroughly mixed in. While the mixture is constantly mushed, stirred and spread, its temperature lowers to an icy -22 degrees. As it begins to freeze, it is spread into a very thin layer in the center of the tray and designs of flavored syrup ribbons can be added. Thin metal paddles are then tipped under the edges of the frozen sheet of sweetness and pushed forward to scrape the concoction into five tightly rolled columns of ice cream. These are then picked up and placed vertically into a cup to be sprinkled with whipped cream and up to four toppings! The whole process is done by hand and only takes approximately two minutes from start to finish. DIY ICE CREAM ROLLS Owner Mandy Zou learned how to make this novelty ice cream form at school and enjoys being able to offer it to the Alabaster community. She says watching the process of making the ice cream rolls is all part of the experience. But while it is fun to watch happen in front of you, it is even more exciting to get to do it yourself! That’s why, on the first Saturday of each month, customers ages 12 and up can come in and make their own ice cream rolls, hands-on.

“We have up to four machines that we can use for you to make your own,” Mandy pointed out. “But if you have a group that wants to do it on a different day, you will need to schedule an appointment based on our availability.” NEW FLAVORS FOR THE SEASON Mandy said that business was great when they first opened during the hot summer months. When the weather gets cooler and the busyness of the holidays kick in, they are keeping customers coming back for a sweet treat by adding new flavors. “Throughout the year, we create different flavors for people to try,” Mandy explained. “Right now, we just added gingerbread, hot chocolate, peanut butter cookie and birthday cake.” M.Z. Ice Cream Rolls also offers smoothies and Japanese sodas.

M.Z. ICE CREAM ROLL 37 Buck Creek Plaza, Suite 200, Alabaster HOURS: Sunday – Thursday: 1 pm - 9 pm Friday: 1 pm - 9:30 pm Saturday: 12 pm - 10 pm

Show your hair some love! Joy Cearley, Hairstylist Phone: 334-590-2282

Sassy’s Hair Salon

412 6th Ave SW Alabaster AL 35007

Hours:

Wednesday - Saturday 11:00am to 7:00pm

Haircuts for Women, Men and Kids! Please call for a complete list of services and pricing Walk-ins welcome! cityofalabaster.com

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

INTRODUCING ALABASTER'S NEW CITY CLERK

labaster is proud to introduce the newest member of the administrative staff, Mark Frey, as the newly appointed city clerk. “I love being a part of ‘growing’ a city,” shared Frey. “My goal is to make a difference wherever I am. Alabaster’s leadership, rapid growth and progressive attitude drew me in. Although Alabaster has experienced explosive growth in recent years, its people still come across as down to earth and approachable. I prayed about the opportunity and knew that if God opened the door – I was prepared to walk through it.”

"My mother has always told me, ‘Keep the main thing the main thing.’ Well, for me, Jesus will always be the main thing." -Mark Frey

A city clerk is a mandatory position, required by Alabama law, with clear-cut duties. “A clerk is a municipal official that is appointed by the council with specific statutory duties, including: attending all meetings of the council and keeping records of those meetings, responding to records request, facilitating municipal elections, preparing agendas, minutes, ordinances and resolutions. The clerk acts as a conduit between the mayor and council and the citizens,” Frey stated. And while it sounds straight forward, every clerk is unique and every city is unique. “If you looked at ten municipal clerks, you would have ten different job descriptions. It varies widely, but it is safe to say that the clerk is involved in almost every aspect of municipal government from the bottom to the top,” Frey shared thoughtfully. Frey comes to Alabaster with a diverse background. “I was first appointed as the city clerk for the City of Columbiana in cityofalabaster.com

2013. Although I didn’t have any prior municipal experience, I had owned a successful business for 19 years. This business experience was crucial in developing my personnel management and customer service skills. Following my appointment, I invested countless hours of training to be the most effective clerk that I could be. Working with Mayor Stancil Handley and the city council was a great experience in growing a successful city,” he proudly shared. Frey’s training is quite extensive. “Since being appointed in 2013, I have received my CMC (Certified Municipal Clerk) and MMC (Master Municipal Clerk) certifications. I am a Certified Public Manager through Auburn University Montgomery, and also a Certified Alabama Planning and Zoning Official though University of North Alabama,” he energetically conveyed. All of this training is to serve a larger purpose. “I love helping people,” he enthusiastically shared. “I am passionate about municipal government and feel that local government can be both friendly and transparent. Although my business experience was developed in the private sector, my public experience as a city clerk has been the most rewarding time of my life. I love my job because it places me in a position to make a difference and affect a positive change.” Frey has been married to Mandy for over 15 years, and they have two sons, Nate (14) and Carson (13). They met at church and currently attend Kingwood Church. “Family time,” he said, “is my favorite. I typically put in a lot of hours working and really value my time with my wife and boys. I grew up on Logan Martin Lake, where fell in love with fishing. Probably the best part of fishing is the family time associated with it. Although I have a lifetime fishing permit in my pocket, I may have fished twice in the last five years. I have learned that the time with family is more important than the fish we can catch.” Frey is up to the challenge of a growing city. “The ‘unknown’ is exciting. I don’t know what challenges I will face as Alabaster’s new city clerk, but I embrace the journey,” he stated. He knows he is not alone on this journey. “My dad, Terry Frey, is the most amazing man I have ever known. He truly is my hero and has taught me what a real man is. My mother has always told me, ‘Keep the main thing the main thing.’ Well, for me, Jesus will always be the main thing. “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delights in his way,” Psalm 37:23. God has blessed me with an amazing family and I am grateful for His wisdom and favor in my life.” To find out more about the city clerk visit: www.Cityofalabaster.com AC

Anglican Church of the Holy Comforter A traditional Episcopal church using the 1928 Book of Common Prayer

You are welcome to join us for the celebration of Holy Communion each Sunday at 10 am Rev. Mr. Shannon L. Clark, Deacon-in-charge Stathanasius1978@gmail.com 135 Ashville Circle Montevallo, AL 35115 (205) 665-2769 holy-comforter.com

It’s now easier than ever to enjoy the affordable, carefree lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of. Think of it as a bit of financial security that can make a big difference in your budget and your pocket.

CALL 205.725.6037

RittenhouseVillages.com 570 Southland Drive Hoover, AL 35226

Located 2.7 miles south of American Village on Highway 119

Memory Care Prices, plans and programs are subject to change or withdrawal without notice. Owned and operated by Discovery Senior Living. Void where prohibited by law. ©2018 Discovery Senior Living. RVH-0018 8/18

4-5BR/4.5BA $340s

4BR / 3 BA $230s

4BR/2BA $190s SOLD!

4.5BR/4.5BA $320s

4BR/3BA 1.6 ACRE $290s SOLD!

3BR/2BA $190s SOLD!

5BR/4.5BA 3+ ACRES $420s SOLD!

3BR/2BA $160s

4BR/2BA $190s SOLD!

4BR/3.5BA $330s SOLD!

UNDER CONTRACT! 4-5BR/3BA $290s

Call The Tim Mitchell Team 205-305-8756 / 205-541-3500 TimMitchellSells.com

Each office is independently owned and operated.

cityofalabaster.com

CITIZEN SPOTLIGHT were struggling with their grades that first Monday. At the end of the year, 48 of them had C’s or better in all classes!” A total of almost 6,000 students attended morning ACADEMICS First sessions last year. This year, over 40 students are in the 6 am study center to retake a test, get tutored, print or work on projects, or to simply study!

THE REWARD IS WORTH THE WORK

teve Walker retired over 20 years ago, and yet, you can still find him walking the halls of Thompson High School chatting with teachers, fist bumping students and happily serving to meet critical needs that exist in the classroom.

the People’ fame) has brought over three pickup truck loads of food to support our ACS Food Pantry. Two churches have given me food and recommended us to others. Another has donated fried turkeys at Thanksgiving.”

MEETING PHYSICAL NEEDS “When I found out we had a lot of students who weren’t eating lunch, we managed to get a little money together to have some of those students put in an account to help,” he said. “I realized their families were probably in the same situation, so we started the THS Food Pantry to help our students’ families who were hungry, too.” Since the 2015-2016 school year, more than 60,000 cans and cartons of food have been distributed to over 700 families in need throughout the community. THS and Alabaster City schools have donated the food from their food drives, where individuals bring food to school and donate money to be used to buy needed food. “This community gives,” Walker applauded. “Will Cholewinsi (of ‘Feed

MEETING ACADEMIC NEEDS For Walker, it’s all about Alabaster City Schools and our community. He puts a significant amount of time and work into the various programs he oversees, but according to him, “Bragging on myself would be unfair to those who really make these programs.” One such program is now called ACADEMICS First. After communicating with Adam Moseley, Dr. Vickers and Dr. Hester about his plan, Walker got the green light to establish a 6 am study hall and tutoring center for THS students. Breakfast, snacks, water, computers and a printer to share, and school supplies for those who couldn’t afford them, are provided. “When Coach Mark Freeman came, he totally bought into the program for his athletes. He sent me 51 students who

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… AND LOVING LIFE Although serving the students of ACS is incredibly rewarding and fun for Mr. Walker, he points back to his family as a source of joy in his life. He and his wife, Ellie, have been married for almost 45 years now, 22 of which have been spent in the Alabaster community. They are proud of their son Zachary, who now works at City College in London, England after having earned his doctorate in education and working in Singapore for five years. The Walkers love spending time with their miniature dachshund, Bear, and attending the First United Methodist Church of Alabaster. His advice for finding (and bringing!) joy to the community of Alabaster, is to notice and do the little things. “Be aware of the needs around you. Smile. Say hello. Pick up trash. Open the door for someone. Help that person carry their load. Let that car in,” he said with the smile. “Go ahead, save the world. But start here. If you think you have nothing to give, just be a pleasant sight and greeting to others. Don’t give up on what you can contribute. You have gifts. Don’t ignore them; use them to help others.” To help feed the hungry in our community, please consider contributing canned goods to the THS Food Pantry. You can bring or send your donation to the rotunda office at Thompson High School, or call THS and ask for Steve Walker. AC

AROUND TOWN

Shop Local. Shop Small. Shop Family.

358-3470 cityofalabaster.com

Christmas Bells Are Ringing

Salvation Army Kettles of Hope

aptain Herbert Frazier, Jr. and his wife, Captain Rosalinda Frazier, are newly appointed at the Alabaster Corp. “We are coming from Greenville, MS - the delta. Prior to that, I was in Washington, DC at Harbor Light, a treatment facility for homeless individuals dealing with substance abuse,” shared Captain Frazier. In the Salvation Army, couples work together as ministers. The Alabaster location is the hub for the social services that the Salvation Army offers, but it is also a church fellowship. “We are now sitting in the chapel space or sanctuary space. We have seating capacity of over 80, and we have services every week,” shared Captain Herbert. They offer mid-week programs for women, and a youth program called Club 316. The social services they offer are a huge help for area residents. “From November 1st through the 15th we have cityofalabaster.com

received and assisted over 130 cases. At this location, we offer an emergency food pantry, help with utilities, energy assistance, and rehabilitation services,” explained Captain Herbert. What the Salvation Army is best known for are the Red Kettle campaigns. “We began the campaign this year on Friday, November 9th in Shelby and Chilton counties. We have 47 Kettle locations, giving area residents an opportunity to support our programs and services that are aimed at helping local residents in need,” he shared. “The Salvation Army, for as many years as I have known, supports our programs with 83 cents of every dollar we receive; you can’t beat that when you make your investment in hope!” “The reason why the Salvation Army chooses this time of year to ring the bell and receive financial donations,” shared Herbert, “is because it is this time of the

year when the whole world sees the needs of others. This would not work as well in July or August, but this time of year, the entire country sees the needs of others!” All of this work is exhausting for both Captains, but it is all worth it! “When I woke up this morning I thought, ‘why do I do what I do?’ There were some words in a song I heard in North Carolina back in 1986 - the song was written and sung by the Henson’s, I believe. It came on the radio and it said, “What we need is a soul filling station, full service open 24 hours a day, pumping high octane to super salvation.” That stuck with me! For more than 33 years that is what I do,” he exclaimed with a satisfying smile. The funds raised through the Red Kettles go to work immediately. “I understand Christmas is the motivation for many people giving, however, when Santa Claus and his reindeer are gone, it is the following day we receive the ▶

ALABASTER HELPS calls for emergency assistance for energy, food and shelter. Or someone is so caught up in their addiction, they can’t wait for the New Year to make a resolution,” he asserted boldly. In 1891, Salvation Army Captain Joseph McFee was distraught because so many poor individuals in San Francisco were going hungry. During the holiday season, he resolved to provide a free Christmas dinner for the destitute and poverty-stricken. He only had one major hurdle to overcome -- funding the project. Today in the U.S., The Salvation Army assists more than four-and-a-half million people during the Thanksgiving and Christmas time periods. Everywhere, public contributions to Salvation Army kettles enable the organization to continue its yearround efforts at helping those who would otherwise be forgotten. -Excerpt from SalvationArmyUSA.org To Volunteer to Call 205.663.7105 or go online and register at: www.salvationarmyalm.org/birmingham/kettle-bell-ringer/ Civic Organizations, School Groups, and Families can all apply to ring the bell. AC

Expires:2/2018

This Holiday Season, Give the Gift of Sight! Next to Publix In Alabaster Dr. Graham Rowland and staff are proud to offer:

Merry Christmas From Our Family To Yours.

Scott Lamoreaux

205-365-4486

www.bestremodelever.com

• Treatment of eye disease (glaucoma, macular degeneration, dry eyes), co-management of ocular surgery and eye injuries. • Free eye exams for infants (birth to 12 months) and free screening for kids. • The latest in high fashion eyewear, sunglasses, and contact lenses. • Walk-ins welcome! • Most insurances accepted including: VSP, EyeMed, Blue Cross, Medicare, Medicaid, and more.

Mention this ad for 15% off all Sunglasses in December! 9200 Hwy 119, Suite 600, Alabaster, AL 35007 www.alabastereyecare.com | 205.624.3088 cityofalabaster.com

AROUND TOWN

MAYOR'S PRAYER BREAKFAST

ayor Marty Handlon and the Compact 2020 Alabaster Team recently held a city-wide prayer breakfast, with a focus on bringing ministers together to pray and seek answers to reduce addiction and increase mental health. “Compact 2020 was intended to increase the level of communication and coordination among various agencies, to increase community awareness and involvement, and to identify at-risk youth and intervene with appropriate resources as early as possible in the cycle of substance abuse,” shared Carol Williams, Prevention Director for Compact2020. Mayor Handlon welcomed the gathering of pastors and lay leaders to city hall and encouraged them to be engaged through prayer, prevention, and doing what they do best - caring for their flocks. Capt. Hammac, the executive director, was on hand and shared his thoughts on what it will take to reduce drug abuse and increase prevention and help. “The solution isn’t more law enforcement, it isn’t more legislation, but it is more involvement. We are asking you to walk alongside us. We want to identify those families who need the help and get them the help they need,” he shared. Along with Mayor Handlon and the leadership

cityofalabaster.com

team of Compact 2020, the prayer breakfast was organized and lead by the faith leaders who serve on the Alabaster Prevention Team. Pastor Brandon Mathews with Cultivate Church, Pastor Derrick Morrissette with Mind of Christ International Church, and Pastor Kenneth Bruce of Westwood Baptist Church. Pastor Mathews prayed for an increased awareness for the pastors in attendance, for himself and for the community. “My prayer is we don’t neglect the opportunity we have in front of us. My prayer focus is that the Lord would grip our hearts and show us the reason you brought us to serve here,” he explained before he offered a prayer. Pastor Morrissette believes that it will take more than just one church getting involved. “It is going to take a unified effort,” he began, “to overcome the epidemic of drugs, and suicide. I simply want to pray for unity!” The morning prayer service ended with Pastor Bruce calling on the faith community to be leaders. ”This is an opportunity to engage your community. And we do this together,” he exclaimed. Thankfully, the leadership of Alabaster was there, knowing that the solution is a spiritual one. AC

AROUND TOWN

SILURIA BREWING COMPANY GRAND OPENING NATIONAL HOSPICE large crowd gathered Saturday, November 10 CARE MONTH to congratulate Danny and Tammy Sample on

the grand opening of Siluria Brewing Company. The brewery is located in the old post office building on 145 1st Ave W. in Alabaster. Their hours are Thursday and Friday 4 pm - 11 pm and Saturday 11 am - 11 pm. Call to book private events. (205) 624-3037 Website: www.siluriabrewing.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/siluriabrewing Twitter: @siluriabrewing

ALABASTER WATER BOARD ANNUAL DONATION DRIVE FOR LOCAL CHARITY

ayor Marty Handlon proclaimed that November 2018 will be proclaim as National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, and encourage all people to learn more about the options of care and to share their wishes with family, loved ones, and their healthcare professionals. Every year more than 1.5 million Americans living with life-limiting illnesses, and their families, receive care from the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hospice programs in communities throughout the United States.

ach year the employees of Alabaster Water Board adopt a local charity for the holiday season. This year, they have chosen Family Connection, Inc, a multi-service non-profit agency dedicated to building positive futures for the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most vulnerable children, youth and families. Their mission is to strengthen communities and families by providing shelter, counseling and safety for young people in crisis. If you are interested in joining the Alabaster Water Board employees in donating items for Family Connection, Inc., please visit Alabaster Water Board at 213 1st Street North; donation boxes will be available in the lobby. All donations must be received by the close of business on December 17. Thank you for your support!

FIRE DEPT. RECEIVES DONATION

ervePro presented Fire Chief Tim Love and Mayor Marty Handlon with a donation for their work as first responders. ServePro is dedicated to supporting those who are the first to arrive on site when a community needs help the most. cityofalabaster.com

BEAUTIFICATION BOARD

Board's Alabaster Beautification

h t n o m e h t f o s garden tip

any of us do more shopping and planning for our gardens during the winter months than actual gardening, but that doesn't mean there's nothing to do. In the warmer zones, December is the start of pleasant weather and a chance to enjoy planting cool season vegetables and flowers that can’t tolerate your summers. Northern gardeners should use this period without leaves to scout for egg masses and other signs of trouble on trees and shrubs. Here are some more regional gardening tips for the beginning of winter. IN GENERAL • Keep watering your holiday plants and give them plenty of light. • Check houseplants, and any plants you brought indoors for the winter, for insects that may have hitched a ride. With the heat on,

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they can multiply quickly. Also check any bulbs, corms, tubers and bare root plants for desiccation or rot. Start eating those stored vegetables and think about planting more winter squash next year. Feed the birds. Be prepared for sudden swings in temperature and protect tender plants with row covers, newspaper or blankets. Prepare your planting beds now, with compost and manure, for planting in early spring. You should still be able to plant trees and shrubs. Start pruning your wisteria by removing the longer canes.

In celebration of Alabama's 200th birthday, we encourage everyone to plant trees or plants that are from our native area! NATIVE PLANTS Slender Three Seed Mercury; Short Stalk Copperleaf Chalk Maple; Pale Maple Box Elder; Ash Leaf Maple Drummond’s Maple; Swamp Red Maple Red Maple Sugar Maple Creeping Spotflower; Opposite Leaf Spotflower Common Black Cohosh; Early Black Cohosh; Black Bugbane Southern Maidenhair Fern; Venus’ Hair Fern Bottlebrush Buckeye

BEAUTIFICATION AWARD WINNER Jerome and Brenda Vason, 260 Kensington Lane, Ward 4 This property is manicured with well-maintained scrubs, hedges and flowers. They also have placed many fall mums and plants to make it colorful, eye appealing and well deserving for December’s Beautification award. The Beautification winner for December is in Ward 4. Next month the winner will be from Ward 5. To nominate a property for the Beautification Award, email the Beautification Board.

CONTACT THE BEAUTIFICATION BOARD: beauty@cityofalabaster.com

cityofalabaster.com

CALENDAR

COMMUNITY DECEMBER December 3 Council 7 pm December 4 Water Board 7 pm

Saturday: 10 am - 4:50 pm Sunday: 1 pm - 4:50 pm

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

December 5 Court Plea Dockets 9 am & 2 pm

ALABASTER'S FINANCIAL

ACCOUNTABILITY RECOGNIZED Congratulations to our Finance Director, John Haggard, and the entire finance department on being awarded the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada's Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. Mayor Maryty Handlon is seen presenting to Haggard a framed copy of the press release annoucing the honor.

December 10 School Board 6 pm

CLOSED DATES

December 12 Court Plea Dockets 9 am & 2 pm

December 22 - 25

December 17 Board of Zoning Adj. 6:30 pm

Christmas Holidays

December 17 Council 7 pm

December 31 - January 1

December 18 Planning Commission 7 pm

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve & Day

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

IT'S NOT THE FOOD, IT'S THE FELLOWSHIP

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

December 3 at 6:30 pm

Traditions make the holidays, even if we sometimes forget why we're doing them or how they ever got started! Join storyteller Dolores Hydock for some funny, affectionate stories about the sometimes-crazy rituals and traditions that help even the Scrooge-iest among us locate that elusive Christmas spirit, year after year. â&#x2013;ś

cityofalabaster.com

CALENDAR MAKE & TAKE HAND SCRUB December 6 at 6 pm

Join us for a fun evening as we make homemade hand scrub using all natural ingredients and your choice of essential oil and fragrance. Kim Blair, owner of Blair Pharmacy in Weatherly, will walk the group through all the steps as you create your unique hand scrub recipe. Come ready to learn a lot, get a little messy, and have a great time making the perfect hand scrub for you or a thoughtful Christmas gift for someone else. This event is appropriate for all ages and stages. Sign up is required. Please call the library at 205-664-6822 for more information. Program takes place in the meeting room.

YA YA YARNERS December 10th and 17th From 5:30 - 7:30 pm

The Ya Ya Yarners are meeting at the Albert L. Scott Library now! Do you knit or crochet? Would you like to learn how? If so, we have a group for you…the Ya Ya Yarners! We will teach you how if you don’t know how. We will start you with one of two simple projects. We will supply the needles or hooks and yarn and a pattern. We also do community projects such as hats for service members, lap blankets, prayer shawls and many other things, plus we have a really good time. We hope you will join us! For more information please call the library at 664-6822 or email Carol Smith at csmith@shelbycounty-al.org. Program takes place in the meeting room.

LIBRARY BOOK GROUP

element shines bright in the otherwise dark years of the First World War. Meanwhile, hundreds of girls toil amidst the glowing dust of the radium-dial factories. The glittering chemical covers their bodies from head to toe; they light up the night like industrious fireflies. With such a coveted job, these "shining girls" are the luckiest alive — until they begin to fall mysteriously ill. Program takes place in the meeting room.

ABC & DS OF MEDICARE January 14 at 1 pm.

Karen Haiflich’s program resumes. January 24 at 6 pm.

Eric Smith’s program resumes.

LIBRARY YOUTH EVENTS STORY TIMES Fridays at 10:30am

Toddler Tales in the meeting room 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 3:30pm

Sensory Story Time in the meeting room Wednesdays at 10:15am

Outreach Story Time at day care centers

GINGERBREAD WORKSHOP December 4 at 6:15 pm

We’ll provide everything for making tasty-looking houses! Families must sign up in advance and pre-pay $2 per house when they sign up by Monday, December 3. If paying by check please make it out to the library. Sorry, no refunds. Workshop is in the meeting room. All children must be with an adult.

Millard along with Charity Waldrep of Shelby County 4-H. Enjoy and sing songs of the season and munch cookies. Signing up would be helpful but not required. Children under age 7 must be with an adult. In the meeting room.

WONDER KIDS’ BOOK CLUB: CREATING COMMUNITY December 11 from 6-7 pm

Kids 6 years old and older can take part in our new book club! The theme for this month is ‘Creating Community.’ After we explore books we’ll create community collages. Children attending for the first time will receive a book to keep. Six year olds must be with an adult. Please sign up for this program that will be in the meeting room.

KIDS HOLIDAY PARTY December 12 from 10 am - 12 pm

Children and their caregivers are invited to a fun-filled morning featuring Santa Claus and Mrs. Santa Claus, gingerbread man decorating in the meeting room, and a trackless train ride around the library parking lot. Please note that because the train will run through the entire parking lot guests are advised to park on the edge of the Piney Woods along 2nd Avenue NW. Free tickets are available in the lobby for the train ride. All children must be with an adult.

EVENING WITH SANTA December 13 from 6:15 - 7 pm

Santa Claus and Mrs. Santa Claus will greet families and listen to children’s Christmas wishes in the meeting room. All children must be with an adult.

December 20 at 7 pm

Join us for our discussion of The Radium Girls by Kate Moor. The Curies' newly discovered element of radium makes gleaming headlines across the nation as the fresh face of beauty, and wonder drug of the medical community. From body lotion to tonic water, the popular new cityofalabaster.com

AMERICAN GIRLS CLUB: HOLIDAY CONCERT & COOKIES December 7 at 4 pm

Families are invited to join the American Girls Club for this seasonal, musical event with teen singer-pianist Mabrey

WINTER BREAK STORY TIME December 19 and December 26 From 10:15 – 11 am

Kids of all ages can have fun with Miss Jennie in the meeting room. ▶

CALENDAR

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

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE The Parks and Recreation Office, along with Veterans Skate Park, will be closed on the following dates: Monday & Tuesday, December 24 and 25, in observance of the Christmas holidays. Monday, December 31, in observance of New Year’s Eve.

CHRISTMAS PARADE Saturday, December 1 at 10 am

The parade location will be Highway 31 South beginning at Ernest McCarty Ford before turning onto 2nd Place NW, traveling down 1st Street SW, and ending at the stop sign in front of Southbrook Village. The 2018 theme is “A Storybook Christmas”. The parade is filled with bands, floats, dancers, Santa, and much more including lots of candy! Don’t miss out on a fun filled morning.

COACHES NEEDED Volunteer coaches are needed for spring sports including Baseball, Girls’ Softball, and Soccer. If you are interested in coaching, please contact Morgan or Nik at Alabaster Parks & Recreation.

SPRING SOCCER REGISTRATION Online Registration begins at 8 am on December 31 and ends at 11 pm on January 12. Available at www.alabasterparks.org.

Walk-in Registration: January 2 through January 11 – weekdays only from 8 am until 5 pm at the Parks and Rec Office located at Veterans Park. New players should bring a copy of their birth certificate with them. Leagues begin at age 4. Registration Fee: $90 for U6/U8. $110 for U9 through U15. Non-residents: additional 10% per child. Multi-child discount: 10% per child after oldest child pays full price.

fee (no checks accepted) which must be paid before your reservation is complete. All open picnic tables (those not under a covering) are available free of charge on a first come, first served basis. 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.

SPRING BASEBALL/SOFTBALL REGISTRATION

CLOSING DATES

Online Registration begins at 8 am on December 31 and ends at 11 pm on January 12. Available at www.alabasterparks.org. Walk-in Registration: January 2 through January 11 – weekdays only from 8 am until 5 PM at the Parks and Rec Office located at Veterans Park. New players should bring a copy of their birth certificate with them. Registration Fee: $165 for Rookie through Metro; $90 for 4-year-old T-ball; and $165 for Girls Softball 6U thru 12U. Non-residents: additional 10% per child. Multi-child discount: 10% per child after oldest child pays full price.

YOUTH BASKETBALL Underway with 265 participants.

PAVILIONS FOR RENT Note: You can begin reserving pavilions for your 2019 events on Jan. 1.

OUTDOOR RENTAL FACILITIES: On-Line Pavilion Rentals – available at www.alabasterparks.org. Several of our City Parks offer pavilions for events such as picnics, family reunions and birthday parties. The best way to ensure 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

SENIOR CENTER December 21- January 1

We re-open on Wednesday, January 2. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

CHRISTMAS DANCE Friday, Dec. 7 from 5:30 - 8:30 pm

The Annual Alabaster Senior Christmas Dance is at Thompson Middle School Cafeteria. Don’t miss a great evening of fun, food, dancing and connecting with friends. Cost is $5/person. Includes: dinner, live entertainment, door prizes and more! Please stop by the Senior Center to purchase your tickets. Tickets will go on sale on October 16. Deadline is Monday, November 26, if seats still are still available.

NEW SPRING TRIP 4 nights/5 days- Springtime in Little Rock, Roland and Hot Springs, Arkansas. Four nights lodging in Little Rock area, 4 hot breakfast buffets, 1 lunch and 3 dinners. Tour and dinner at Chris Olsen’s Edgemont Home & Garden P. Allen Smith’s Moss Mountain Farmfarm-to-table lunch and tour. Guided tours of downtown Little Rock and downtown Hot Springs. Tour the “Old Mill”, Presidential library tour, Heifer Village tour, Gangster Museum tour and more. Cost is $525/person for double occupancy and $699/person for single occupancy. Stop by the senior center for more details. We will be traveling on a motor coach bus. $100 deposit to reserve your spot. AC cityofalabaster.com

COUNCIL MINUTES

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

OCTOBER 1, 2018, 7 PM

Present: Sophie Martin (1), Rick Ellis (2), Stacy Rakestraw (3), Greg Farrell (4), Russell Bedsole (5), Kerri Pate (7) Absent: Scott Brakefield (6)

Mayor Comments 1. National Down Syndrome Awareness Month 2. National Domestic Violence Awareness Month 3. Cahaba Valley Elks Lodge Presented Check to Alabaster Police Department for Purchasing a Drone.

4. *Ordinance 181001-076 Creating Office of City Administrator Motion Passed Unanimously SAID MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:30 PM OCTOBER 15, 2018, 7 PM

Present: Sophie Martin (1), Rick Ellis (2), Stacy Rakestraw (3), Greg Farrell (4), Russell Bedsole (5), Scott Brakefield (6), Kerri Pate (7)

Mayor Comments Proclamation and Key to the City – Ms. Mayo Taylor

Agenda Items

Council Reports

*Public Hearing **Set Public Hearing 1. * Resolution 100118 Items to be Declared Surplus Motion Passed Unanimously 2. *Ordinance 181001-074 Stormwater Management Illicit Discharge Motion Passed Unanimously 3. *Ordinance 181001-075 Stormwater Management Post Construction Motion Passed Unanimously

ALS Library: Sophie Martin Public Works and Garbage: Stacy Rakestraw Police Dept.: Russell Bedsole Fire Dept.: Greg Farrell Building & Fire Prevention Services: Kerri Pate

Agenda Items *Public Hearing **Set Public Hearing 1. * Resolution 101518 Police Dept. Vehicle Purchase

Motion Passed Unanimously 2. Resolution 101518-A Award Bid for Youth Basketball Uniforms Motion Passed Unanimously 3. **Resolution 111918 Set Public Hearing – Authorize Placement of Lien on 2030 Kent Dairy Rd. Motion Passed Unanimously 4. Resolution 101518-B Fire Dept. Vehicle Purchase Motion Passed Unanimously 5. Resolution 101518-C Authorize Agreement with InSite Engineering for Silver Creek Turn Lanes Utility Design Motion Passed Unanimously 6. Resolution 101518-D Authorize Lease Agreement with Alabama Power for Lighting Along Colonial Parkway Motion Passed Unanimously 7. Resolution 101518-E Approve ClasTran Funding for FY19 Motion Passed Unanimously 8. Resolution 101518-F Board of Zoning Adjustment Appointments (BZA) Appointments Made

9. Resolution 101518-G Library Board Appointment Appointment Made 10. Motion ABC Request Siluria Brewing Company LLC – 145 1st Avenue West Motion Passed Unanimously 11. Resolution 101518-H Appointment of City Treasurer Appointment & Election Made 12. Resolution 101518-I Appointment of City Administrator Appointment Made 13. Resolution 101518-J Amend Contract – City Administrator Motion Passed Unanimously 14. Resolution 101518-K Withdraw Rezoning Request – Mission Hills Rd. / Butler Rd. Ordinance 181015-070 Motion Passed Unanimously 15. **Ordinance 181105-077 Set Public Hearing November 5, 2018 – Unmanned Aircraft System – Drone Ordinance Public Hearing Set SAID MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:32 PM

CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

FOR MORE ON THE CITY COUNCIL

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

Visit www.cityofalabaster.com/161/City-Council

cityofalabaster.com

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

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

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

RUSSELL BEDSOLE, WARD 5 205-229-6021 bedsole@cityofalabaster.com SCOTT BRAKEFIELD, PRESIDENT, WARD 6 brakefield@cityofalabaster.com KERRI PATE, WARD 7 965-8300 pate@cityofalabaster.com

GREG FARRELL, WARD 4 farrell@cityofalabaster.com

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