Marble works
After years abroad, a local artist finds everything he needs in his home state
Learning to be present Lemon Tree Yoga offers mind and body wellness with a variety of classes
Sweet treats
Stone Hollow Farmstead shares a caramel apple recipe for the holidays December 2015 shelbyliving.com
$4.95
A path to
publication
Vincent student has first novel published through Books-A-Million contest
Perfecting prose OMHS graduate makes a splash in the publishing world
HEALTHCARE LIKE NO OTHER. St. Vincent’s One Nineteen offers everything from fitness to outpatient surgery (coming soon!) and more to bring you medical*, wellness, and spa services in one integrated location. And now, we’re expanding our medical services – all part of our commitment to continue bringing you a new kind of healthcare.
ONE NINETEEN OneNineteen.com
*Provided by St. Vincent’s Birmingham hospital.
FROM THE EDITOR
T
his issue marks my 39th as editor of Shelby Living. It is also going to be my last – for a little while, at least. My husband and I are expecting our first child – a baby girl due in early 2016. Luckily, we have a great interim editor ready to fill in for me for the next foursix months. Lauren Dowdle first started writing for Shelby Living and our sister publication, Hoover’s Magazine, several years ago. When we had an opening for the Hoover’s Magazine editor position, she was the first person I turned to. Luckily, she jumped at the opportunity and has done a fantastic job for the last 12 months. When I found out I was pregnant, Lauren was my first choice to handle Shelby Living in my absence. She is a great writer and reporter and is familiar with the area thanks to writing for Shelby Living for so long. I was thrilled when she said yes. So, next month you will see a new face and signature on this page. What won’t change, however, is Shelby Living’s commitment to sharing dynamic stories about the people, places and businesses that make up Shelby County.
This month’s magazine is no exception. Check out some of our stories: u Melia Burrell is a Vincent High student who recently had her first novel published through a Books-A-Million contest. u Cole Kinchler is an Oak Mountain High graduate who is COO of Simply Prose, a website that helps aspiring writers perfect their work and see it published. The company recently won $40,000 in the Alabama Launchpad competition. u Craigger Browne graduated from the University of Montevallo in the early ‘90s. His career took him to France and Italy before he realized he had everything he needed to create beautiful marble sculptures in his home state. Feel free to contact me with comments, questions or story ideas at Katie.mcdowell@shelbyliving.com. I would love to hear from you, even when I am on my break.
Katie McDowell, Editor
Katie.McDowell@ShelbyLiving.com
CORRECTION: In the November issue, Britney Moore Photography, LLC’s website was listed incorrectly in the 2015 Best of the Best story. The correct address is Britneymoorephoto. com. Shelby Living is sorry for the error and happy to set the record straight.
ON THE COVER Melia Burrell, a junior at Vincent Middle High School, recently had her first book published by Books-AMillion. Cover design: Robyn Holm Photography: Emily Klein
SHELBY Living EDITORIAL Graham Brooks Molly Davidson Baker Ellis Jessa Pease Emily Sparacino Neal Wagner
CONTRIBUTORS Laura Brookhart Lindsay Dyess Dawn Harrison Amy Jones Lisa Phillips Grace Thornton PRODUCTION Jamie Dawkins Layken Gibbs Robyn Holm Amanda Porter MARKETING Kristy Brown Ashley Duckett Kari George Daniel Holmes Emily Klein Nicole Loggins Rhett McCreight Meagan Mims Kim McCulla April Spivey ADMINISTRATION Tim Prince Katie McDowell Mary Jo Eskridge Hailey Dolbare Catherine Cousins Shelby Living is published monthly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Shelby Living is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newspapers Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Shelby Living, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Shelby Living is mailed to select households throughout Shelby County, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit Shelbyliving.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $20.41 for one year by visiting Shelbyliving.com, or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532. Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@ shelbyliving.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 526.
4 | ShelbyLiving.com
WHAT’S INSIDE
arts & culture 12
HOMEGROWN ART Barry Graham creates home and garden décor from recycled and vintage items
15
BEST IN SHOW Meet Robin Miller, winner of the Shelby County Arts Council’s 2015 Juried Art Show
16
MARBLE WORKS After traveling the globe for his art, Craigger Browne finds everything he needs in his home state
16 December 2015 | 5
WHAT’S INSIDE
48
26 in every issue 7
THE SIMPLE LIFE
8
SHORT STORIES
55
BUSINESS CONNECTIONS
61
SHELBY SPOTTED
77
MARKETPLACE
80
OUT AND ABOUT
82
WHY I LOVE SHELBY COUNTY
82 arts & culture 12
HOMEGROWN ART Barry Graham creates home and garden décor from recycled and vintage items
36
A PATH TO PUBLICATION Vincent student has first novel published through Books-A-Million contest
14
BEST IN SHOW Meet Robin Miller, winner of the Shelby County Arts Council’s 2015 Juried Art Show
40
PERFECTING PROSE OMHS graduate makes a splash in the publishing world
46
ON THE SMALL SCREEN Local film company shoots commercial in Mt Laurel
16
MARBLE WORKS After traveling the globe for his art, Craigger Browne finds everything he needs in his home state
health & fitness
6 | ShelbyLiving.com
features
26
LEARNING TO BE PRESENT Lemon Tree Yoga offers mind and body wellness with a variety of classes
34
READY TO TREAT YOU St. Vincent’s One Nineteen to open urgent care center
food & dining 48
SWEET TREATS Stone Hollow Farmstead shares a caramel apple recipe for the holidays
THE SIMPLE LIFE
Hassle-free holidays Psst … want to know an easy way to reduce chaos and stress this holiday season? It comes down to a simple word: Plan. Plan for the things that are important to you and to your family in ways of celebrations, budgets, volunteer commitments and traditions. While during other months of the year you may feel comfortable “flying by the seat Lisa Phillips, of your pants,” December may not be owner of SimpleWorks, quite so spontaneous if you want to Simpleworks.guru reach the New Year with sanity and lisa@simpleworks.guru 205.981.7733 energy. Take time to plan some of the more routine elements of your life to make room for all the “extras” that the holiday season offers. It’s all about creating harmony that works for you, your family and friends. uPick and choose. It’s imperative that you write down everything that is important to you and your family during the holidays. This means having a conversation with them and not assuming anything. Is it important to bake cookies? If it is, do you have to make them from scratch because it’s a treasured recipe that evokes memories? Or is it the time together that you want and a box mix would work just fine? Keep what you cherish and redesign other activities of your holiday season. uPlan ahead. Mark off any events that you will attend and preplan if there are any goodies, food or presents that you will be contributing. Decide what can be done early. Shop in bulk so you have things on hand the whole month for potlucks and office parties. Holiday cards can be designed, addressed and mailed by online sources like Shutterfly, saving you hours. Anything that keeps you from standing in long lines is worth the money! Keep extra “last-minute gifts” for gift exchanges. uDelegate. Delegate activities that don’t need your personal attention. One of the biggest obstacles in delegating is understanding that someone may do the task differently or not as well as you; let it go. Ask yourself, “What’s more important, having the house cleaned or cleaned by me?” This could be the month you set aside OCD tendencies for just a few days to enjoy the season. When you plan, tweak traditions, and delegate, you will see your emotions switch from stress and chaos to enjoyment and freedom. The point is not to be so rigid that you try to “do it all and be all” to everyone. Instead, rearrange your priorities to fit this current season and find the joy you seek. It’s that simple. l
It’s all about creating harmony that works for you, your family, and friends.
December 2015 | 7
SHORT STORIES
Windwood Equestrian celebrates 2015 season As the first half of the 2015 show season comes to an end, Windwood Equestrian riders have had a great season thus far. The season has seen growing families: Christine McClurkin with the purchase of Mogidashu; Emma Smith with the lease of Farnley Belle; Melissa Welch with the purchase of Blame It On Vegas; and Ava Messer with the purchase of Just A Peanut. It’s been a season of learning and growing as many of the longtime students advanced in their divisions. Windwood Equestrian students have excelled in their classes under the instruction of Jill Dean, 2014 AHJA Trainer of the Year. Her students are ranked as some of the top riders in the state in the Alabama Hunter Jumpers Association. Equestrians Izzi Simpson and Melissa Welch recently showed at the USEF show in Conyers, Ga. Melissa s won first place in Long Stirrup/US, and Izzi brought home top honors in the Children’s Hunter 2-foot-6-inch classes. Windwood Equestrian is located in Pelham. For more information, visit Windwoodequestrian.com.
Palmer to play Mother Ginger in ‘The Nutcracker’ When Grebel Dance presents “The Nutcracker” each year, there’s a tradition in Pelham that one of the department heads always plays the part of Mother Ginger. So at the Pelham City Council meeting Oct. 19, the dance studio wigged its next performer: Pelham Police Chief Larry Palmer. Palmer is the 11th department head in the city to play Mother Ginger, and he said he was approached a few weeks ago about the position. “I could not say no,” he laughed. “I agreed to do it, and I’m just pleased to do it. It’s a chance for me to meet my community and get involved in my
community.” “The Nutcracker” is a two-act ballet centered on Clara and a toy nutcracker she receives for Christmas. They journey to the Land of Sweets ruled by the Sugar Plum Fairy. Mother Ginger, a giant gingerbread house, dances onto the Sugar Plum Fairy’s court, opening her skirt to reveal little gingerbread children. Palmer said there will be eight to 10 girls who come dancing out from under the dress. “The Nutcracker” will be performed at Chelsea High School on Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 20 at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Grebeldance.com.
VES teacher writes children’s book with her mother The events and characters A Vincent Elementary School in the book are based on actual teacher has collaborated with her characters in her family, and mother to write and illustrate the creative imagination of her a new children’s book called children and niece. “Popsicles and Pickles, Please: Clifton has always dreamed The Adventures of Nunky, Bit Bit, of authoring a children’s book, and Mac.” while her mother, Wanda A. Marlee Clifton says she writes Clifton Davis, an artist, has always to color the world for all children dreamed of illustrating one. – especially those who need a moment Together, they gained inspiration for in time where their imagination can take their children’s book from Clifton’s two them to a place of smiles, dreams and a feeling of joy one gets from a place where daughters’ and niece’s actual love for popsicles and pickles. it never rains.
8 | ShelbyLiving.com
SHORT STORIES
SafeHouse promotes Domestic Violence Awareness Month During the month of October, SafeHouse of Shelby County encouraged local businesses to wear purple in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Shelby County employees wore purple, and the Shelby County Commission also issued a proclamation
recognizing Domestic Violence Awareness Month. SafeHouse of Shelby County offers domestic and sexual violence response and prevention services for the communities of Shelby, Coosa and Clay counties. For more information, visit Safehouse. org.
Voted Shelby County's Best Private School K-12
Fully Accredited | Athletics (10) Degreed Teachers | Low Teacher-Student Ratio Weekly Chapels | Marching & Concert Bands
More Information: kingwoodchristianschool.com • 663-3973
Callens supports cancer survivors at Race for the Cure Miss Shelby County Outstanding Teen Kyra Callens is pictured with young cancer survivors who walked with her team, Shades of Hope, comprising 60 cancer survivors and family members, at the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. Also attending were breast cancer survivors who had been pampered, built bonds and shared their stories with each other at the “Picture the Cure” day of beauty hosted by Callens. All funds will support the
Susan G Komen Cancer Foundation. Pictured are Jaylen Smiley, Jamari Blackmon, Mariah Stewart, Jourden Martin and Callens. December 2015 | 9
SHORT STORIES
Owens House visits Chelsea Park Elementary Reggie the Raccoon and employees of Owens House, The Shelby County Children’s Advocacy Center, Inc., visited Chelsea Park Elementary in November to teach kindergarten students about welcome and unwelcome touches. Owens House serves victims of and raises awareness about child abuse and violence through intervention, community engagement, publicprivate partnerships, education and awareness. For more information, visit Owenshousecac.org.
Youth Leadership Shelby County holds retreat Members of the 2015-2016 class of Youth Leadership Shelby County participated in an opening retreat during Nov. 1-2. The program is designed to encourage young people to be socially, conscientious leaders of the future by providing them with the experience, vision and opportunity to lead. YLSC is a six-month program offered to 11th grade students attending high school in Shelby County. On each class day, participants have
10 | ShelbyLiving.com
the opportunity to meet community decision makers and to engage them in frank, off-the-record discussions on current issues. By coming face-to-face with community leaders and proactive spokesmen in these various areas, graduates of Youth Leadership Shelby County are better prepared to assume leadership roles on their own. The LSC Alumni Association provides funding for the youth program valued at $695 per student.
ARTS & CULTURE
Homegrown art Artist Barry Graham creates whimsical home and garden dĂŠcor from recycled and vintage items Story and photos by LAURA BROOKHART
12 | ShelbyLiving.com
E
ach of Barry Graham’s Handmade Recycled Garden Art creations is one-of-a-kind, with a history and story behind each inspiration. “Carving the wood and choosing the perfect hardware is my favorite part of the process,” Graham says, “as well as the hand-painted detailed areas.” Made from recycled materials and wood, the hardware used is repurposed antique and vintage items—many unique objects found on his adventures throughout the Southeast. “These are not birdhouses,” he emphasized, “but a creative work of art in the form of luminaries and home and garden décor—conversation pieces for sure!” The luminaries provide a glow wherever they reside via a small batterypowered candle. No mass production techniques or tools (such as staple guns) are used; rather quality tools and materials echo the individuality and character of each. “I also enjoy making customized designs from materials or collectibles provided by clients wanting a special family-history-story rendition,” he said. The garden art and luminary sculptures and his interest in recycling and repurposing began to evolve after he moved back to Alabama and explored some of tools, pieces and parts accumulated by his father, a metallurgist for U.S. Steel, who died in 2009. Graham grew up in Midfield and Forestdale and graduated college from Ringling College of Art in Sarasota, Florida where he first honed his painting skills in oil, acrylic and watercolor and graphic art design. “From my earliest studies, the source of my creativity has been inspired by nature especially— detailed observations of color, texture, and light—but also, as well, by personal transformation,” he said. “I believe
that we are all a part of nature. Our energies interweave. I find my deepest inspiration is simply in the process of creating something out of nothing.” In his earlier experimentations working with recycled objects and wood elements, Graham wanted to be “wide open for direction” and during this phase, assembled some two-dimensional facades. Two of these went to a home in Japan. Some of the vintage and quirky objects that have been well-received are hymnals and songbooks, electrical glass insulators, typewriter and clock parts (the cuckoo, for example) and piano and musical instrument parts. Promotion is important, Graham believes, and he selectively chooses his venues. “It is one thing to have the ability to be creative,” he notes, “but if you don’t have the ability or resources to market it, you’re just creating your own private collection!” Graham’s work can be found at Charlie Thigpen’s Garden Center, Kentuck Art Center, Four Seasons Garden Center in Jasper and Silver Hills Gallery in Gulf Shores. Both his paintings and garden art creations are available at Blue Phrog Gallery in Montevallo and the Coal Yard restaurant in Helena. On Dec. 5, there will be a special preholiday showing of Graham’s garden art, luminaries and paintings at the Coal Yard. For specifics, visit Facebook.com/ graham.barry.7. l OPPOSITE PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: “Gears to You!” was made in 2015. Graham creates decorative birdhouses, such as “Alice in the White Forest,” 2015. Barry Graham at work in studio. The decorative birdhouses – pictured is “Inside Out in Time” – glow thanks to a small battery-powered candle placed inside them. TOP: The birdhouses, including “Psalm of Song, made in 2014, are made from recycled items and wood. LEFT: “Temporal Calibration,” an assembled façade, was made in 2013.
December 2015 | 13
ARTS COUNCIL CORNER
Best in show Meet Robin Miller, winner of the Shelby County Arts Council’s 2015 Juried Art Show Story by LINDSAY DYESS Photo CONTRIBUTED
A
Robin Miller won “Best in Show” and “Best Painting” in the Shelby County Arts Council’s Seventh Annual Juried Art Show.
14 | ShelbyLiving.com
labama is filled with many talented folks. With Birmingham’s art scene on the rise, opportunities for artists are increasing and individuals are making a name for themselves. One such artist is local painter Robin Miller. With a meticulous eye for detail and the ability to paint life-like images on canvas Miller took home the prizes of “Best in Show” and “Best Painting” at the Shelby County Art Council’s Seventh Annual Juried Art Show. As a preschool teacher and a mother of three, Miller has had a passion for art her whole life. After graduating from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Fine Art, Miller started her artistic career not as a painter but as a freelance illustrator. She designed everything from floor plans to magazine illustrations for companies such as Lowe’s and Cooking Light magazine. Eventually she stopped illustrating to be a stay-at-home mom to her daughters. As her children got a little older she decided to pick up the paint brush again. People began to take notice of her work and she received an invitation to participate in the Energen Art Competition.
UPCOMING EVENTS Be sure to check out other exciting events going on at the Shelby County Arts Council in December! The SCAC is located at 102 Midlred Street in Columbiana. For tickets or more information, visit Shelbycountyartscouncil.com Dec. 5: Holiday Artists Market Dec. 12: Three on a String performance Dec. 13: Dolores Hydock’s “Jingle All the Way”
Although she did not place in the competition it was a huge boost to her artistic confidence. She began painting more and entered the Mountain Brook Art Association’s Annual Show. The entry ended up earning her the prize of “Best Emerging Artist.” Besides entering juried shows, Miller enjoys selling her work at shows such as Birmingham Art Crawl and the Bluff Park Art Show. It has provided her with opportunities to meet other artists and put herself out in the art community. Lately Miller has been taking classes at Forstall Art Center under the tutelage of Terry Strickland to polish her painting skills and learn new techniques. “I’m really enjoying the classes and I have learned so much! Painting is so wonderful, how could you not enjoy it,” Miller said. What does the future hold for Miller’s work? “I’m very fascinated by light and water and I want to work on a cohesive body of work featuring these two elements,” Miller said. “I’m also interested in working with models to create the right look for a piece.” Robin Miller is an artist who cannot be stopped. It will be exciting to see where her creative passions will take her next. For more information on Miller’s work, look her up on Facebook at Facebook.com/robinmillerart. l
December 2015 | 15
ARTS & CULTURE
Marble works
After traveling the globe for his art, Craigger Browne finds everything he needs in his home state Story by KATIE MCDOWELL Photos by EMILY KLEIN 16 | ShelbyLiving.com
December 2015 | 17
C
raigger Browne’s career has taken him around the globe. During his 25-year career, he studied with master artists and craftsmen at the Lacoste School of the Arts in France and Nicoli Sculpture Studioes in Italy. He has created hundreds of marble sculptures, and his work can be viewed on five of the seven continents. Everything he needs, however, can be found in his home state of Alabama, including world-class marble to rival the stone found in Italy. The irony is not lost on him. “I went halfway around the world and now I’m as happy as I can be in terms of materials,” he said. Browne, who lives in Wilsonville, grew up in the Birmingham area and graduated from Vestavia Hills High School. Although his studies would take him across the Atlantic Ocean, he initially stayed close to home, attending the University of Montevallo. He played baseball, studied graphic design and earned a BFA with a concentration in sculpture at UM in the early 1990s. After graduating, considered attending graduate school in graphic design. Computers, however, had already changed the field, and he realized he did not have the experience needed. Instead, he attended the Lacoste School of the Arts in France, through a program with the Cleveland Institute of Art. “That’s when I started carving stone,” he said. His work with limestone earned him a Guggenheim scholarship to study in Italy. After a couple of years, he 18 | ShelbyLiving.com
Saving money on car insurance means more to spend on the ones you love.
PAGE 16: “Sylacauga Emerging” is over 7 feet tall and weighs 11,000 pounds. PAGE 17: Craigger Browne, a Wilsonville resident, works in Sylacauga. PAGE 18: Browne has created hundreds of sculptures during his career. PAGE 19: Madonna and Child sculpture at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church.
was ready for a new challenge. Peter Rockwell, Norman Rockwell’s son, directed him to Carrara, Italy, which is famous for its marble quarries. He worked out of Nicoli Sculpture Studios, a prestigious and historic studio that was founded in 1863. “You had master craftsmen in every aspect of the process in the studio in Italy,” he said. Browne eventually made his way back to his home state, where he continued his work. He soon discovered that Sylacauga was home to world-class marble equal to what he worked with in Italy. “They’re both the first in the world,” he said. “I tell people it’s like comparing a Lamborghini with a Ferrari.” Sylacauga sits atop the “Murphy Marble Belt,” which is about 32.5 miles wide and 400 feet deep, according to the Sylacauga Marble Festival’s website. Originally, Alabama marble, as it is commonly known, was used for large-scale projects, including famous buildings and sculptures in Washington, D.C., such as the Lincoln Memorial and
Happy holidays from your local GEICO office. 205-824-4449
3301 Lorna Rd Suite 2, Birmingham
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2012. © 2012 GEICO.
December 2015 | 19
THIS PAGE: Browne completed a four-part sculpture for the B.B. Comer Memorial Library in Sylacauga. The piece is called “Once Upon a Time” and is dedicated to former Sylacauga Mayor Curtis Liles Jr. The four sculptures depict a grandfather reading to his grandson and granddaughter, as well as an empty cushion – a symbol that there is always room for one of listener at story time.
20 | ShelbyLiving.com
many of the interior rooms of the United States Supreme Court building. By the middle of the 20th century, the industry shifted in Sylacauga. Quarrying continued, but the marble was crushed to extract calcium deposits used for agricultural, pharmaceutical and paint products, according to the Sylacauga Marble Festival’s website. Serendipitously, marble companies once again began quarrying stone in Sylacauga for other uses after Browne returned to the state. In 2011, Browne participated in the Sylacauga Marble Festival for the first time. The annual festival,
which is held in early April, draws marble sculptors from across the country. Browne focuses on large-scale commissions and is booked through 2017, although he still tries to squeeze in smaller works. Locally, his works can be seen at the Sylacauga Municipal Complex, the B.B. Comer Library in Sylacauga and St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church in Shelby County. He also created the lions guarding the entrance to the Predator Building at the Birmingham Zoo. He is currently working on a sculpture of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan for Ivy Green,
December 2015 | 21
22 | ShelbyLiving.com
SHELBY Living
CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: Browne poses with “Once Upon a Time,” which was dedicated in 2014. One of the “Once Upon a Time” sculptures. Browne works out of a workshop in Sylacauga.
Send us photos of your community events, parties or meetings — we love to get photos for our Spotted section!
Brenda Ladun Run
inter nt UM W enceme Comm
Email Katie.mcdowell@ shelbyliving.com with event details
Keller’s birthplace. The piece was commissioned by the Alabama Lions Club and will be presented internationally through the club. “It’s a great honor. She’s arguably the most famous Alabamian ever,” Browne said of the sculpture. For commissioned pieces, Browne works with the business or individual on concepts, sketches and budgeting, but he maintains control of the design of the piece. His next stop is the quarry, where he picks the block of marble he wants for the piece. “Marble is really like a semi-precious stone,” he said. “No two stones are exactly alike. Even if I duplicated sculptures, they would still be considered originals.” After the marble is moved to his studio in Sylacauga, “the fun begins.” Browne begins roughing out the piece, using saws for large sculptures before moving to hammers and chisels. Once the piece is complete, he polishes it by hand with wet and dry sandpaper, rather than using a machine, which would shave away the details. “It takes longer, but the end result is worth it,” he said. December 2015 | 23
The work can be both physically and mentally draining. “It’s a combination of construction work and brain surgery,” Browne said. The precision required for marble sculptures can be daunting – one mistake and the piece is ruined. The work is also time intensive. Browne said he does not have much time for other art, although he does teach a drawing class on Tuesday nights in Sylacauga. His smaller sculptures are occasionally available at Littlehouse Galleries in Homewood, and he plans to make his work available at Blue Phrog Gallery in Montevallo in the future. Browne would not trade the hectic schedule for anything except, perhaps, a chance to continue playing baseball. After 25 years, he is still surprised at how his life came together – and it all started as an 18-year-old student at the University of Montevallo. I would not have been prepared to do the things I’ve done without the foundation I got there,” he said. Follow Browne’s work on his Facebook page: Facebook.com/craigger.browne. l
24 | ShelbyLiving.com
A quarry in Sylacauga.
NOW OPEN
BROOKWOOD MEDICAL CENTER
FREESTANDING EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT NEAR THE INTERSECTION OF HWY 280 AND HWY 119
CONDITIONS TREATED • • • • • • •
Allergic reactions Asthma Bone fractures Chest / abdominal pain Head injuries Lacerations requiring sutures Respiratory conditions
• Seizures • Sports injuries and sprains • Stabilize for seamless inpatient admission to the hospital • Stroke • Other urgent medical conditions
Check-in online and wait at home for treatment time: Visit bwmc.com
HEALTH & FITNESS
26 | ShelbyLiving.com
Learning
present to be
Lemon Tree Yoga offers mind and body wellness with a variety of classes Story by GRACE THORNTON Photos by DAWN HARRISON
K
rista Young’s problem was one a lot of people know well. She was sitting too still. But at the same time, she wasn’t sitting still enough. “I’m an accountant,” she said, “and I have worked my whole life sitting at a desk. Over time, I developed back problems from sitting all day.” But even while she sat, she felt her life was passing her by at a breakneck pace. “We’re on our phones, we’re multitasking at everything we do,” she said. “So much of the time life is just flying by us.” So she found the answer to both problems. Yoga. LEFT: Krista Young recently opened Lemon Tree Yoga in the Lee Branch Shopping Center off U.S. 280 in Shelby County.
We, remain... and all unite in offering you, & yours, the compliments of the season; and the return of many, many more, and happy ones. George Washington to Thomas Law Mount Vernon, Christmas Day, 1797
AMERICAN VILLAGE CITIZENSHIP TRUST
WWW. AMERICANVILLAGE.ORG
December 2015 | 27
TOP: Students meditate during a class. Shannon Hancock leads a class. RIGHT: Young opened Lemon Tree Yoga after falling in love with the practice and becoming an instructor.
28 | ShelbyLiving.com
“It’s made all the difference in the world,” Young said. “It’s been so therapeutic for me. It’s helped relieve stress, made me more flexible and given me better posture. And it’s become that if I don’t do yoga, I feel bad.” She found that she just wanted to share that good feeling she got from yoga with others. So she became an instructor. And this July, she opened her own studio — Lemon Tree Yoga in The Village at Lee Branch. “I never intended to open a studio,” Young said. “It just kind of unfolded that way, and I absolutely love it.” It’s become a family affair. “My husband is one of those types who would never consider doing yoga and I finally convinced him to try it, and now he comes and he loves it,” she said. “He’s the most overworked, underpaid person on my staff,” she said. But he does it because he sees the benefits too, Young said. The same goes for her teenage daughter. “I’m still working on my 13-year-old son. I have a ways to go with him, but I’m holding out hope,” she said with a laugh. It’s good for everyone, Young said. Everyone’s moving too fast. And even if
it’s just for 60 minutes, yoga offers the opportunity to “slow down, breathe, be calm and have some movement.” Some people get confused about what yoga is really about, she said. “It’s not a religion,” Young said. What it is instead is “a way to connect on a deeper level to whatever your faith is,” she said. “It’s very meditative. It’s about taking deep breaths and going into deep thoughts and appreciating that moment. You turn inward and find your circumstances for that day and find how to move and breathe through that.” Taking away all the phones and distractions allows the real you to come to the surface, Young said. “For some people, these classes are the only time that ever happens.” Sandy Tucker, one of the first class attendees at Lemon Tree Yoga, said she “can’t speak highly enough about the experience.” “Physically and mentally, the benefits are incredible. I have carpal tunnel and the aches and pains that go with being 52,” Tucker said with a laugh. She used to think she hated yoga, but Lemon Tree “made a yoga lover out of me,”
happier holidays start with giving us a holler
205-637-2977 catering@jimnnicks.com (min. 20people)
.........
catering
Pickup
Greystone Alabaster Riverchase homewood gardendale Trussville 5Points
jimnnicks.com @jimnnicksbbq December 2015 | 29
LEMON TREE YOGA CLASSES Lemon Tree Yoga offers a wide variety classes to meet your practice needs. Below is a sampling of some of the classes offered at the studio. To view more classes, visit Lemontree. yoga. Alignment/Iyengar: A class emphasizing alignment principals and pranayama (yoga breathing techniques). Good for all levels. Ashtanga: A traditional practice of a set of poses followed in a specific order. Classes begin with Sun Salutations, followed by standing and seated poses with modifications given. Beginner Yoga: A slow moving practice covering the basic yoga postures with modifications and props. This is the place for all those new to yoga. Back Care: A slower movement class entirely for strengthening and aligning the back. Good for those with back issues and beginners. Restorative: A form of yoga done with props to provide maximum stress relief to the body. Great for relieving tension. Constant practice will make the body less vulnerable to stressrelated illnesses and help achieve optimal health. Spiritual Healing Vinyasa: A class that enables students to find a way to channel their own healing energies with a deeper mind-body connection. Guided through meditative flows, breath work, lively asana, and with a hint of chakra cleansing. Great for all levels. Vinyasa: A fun and lively, flowing style of yoga accompanied by various types of music. The student will move seamlessly through various poses while syncing movement with breath. Room may be heated, depending on instructor. Good for all levels. Warm/Hot 26: 26 Therapeutic Hatha postures with two breathing exercises. Heated room and great music. Information provided by Lemon Tree Yoga’s website. 30 | ShelbyLiving.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Young demonstrates the locust pose. Students practice the Warrior II or Virabhadrasana II pose. Lemon Tree Yoga’s motto is “Healthy Body, Quiet Mind.”
December 2015 | 31
32 | ShelbyLiving.com
she said. The atmosphere, the quality of the instructors and the diversity of the classes all make it a world-class studio, she said. “I can’t tell you how much I’ve benefitted from taking yoga there,” Tucker said. Young said she wishes more people would give themselves that gift. That’s why she started Lemon Tree Yoga, she said. “This is not something you get into to become rich. You get into it because you love it and believe in the benefits,” Young said. “I would love for everyone to experience some of that, just to feel better, to feel good.” Lemon Tree Yoga is located at 611 Doug Baker Boulevard, Suit 116, in the Lee Branch Shopping Center in Birmingham. For more information and a list of class schedules, visit Lemontree.yoga or call 205913-3491. l LEFT: Hancock teaches a variety of yoga classes and is active in the yoga community. Left: Young said practicing and teaching yoga has changed her life..
December 2015 | 33
HEALTH & FITNESS
Ready to treat
You
St. Vincent’s One Nineteen to open urgent care center Story by STEPHANIE HOLDERBY
seemingly non-emergent symptoms that are actually indications of a rom a swollen ankle from more serious issue. A St. Vincent’s an early Sunday morning Urgent Care physician would consult baseball practice to a sore with the St. Vincent’s Birmingham throat that worsens over emergency department doctor. the weekend, at one time or another, Even though the physicians aren’t everyone needs medical care outside in the same facility, they’re within the typical physician’s office hours. the same system and can view the These are some medical gap x-rays or other diagnostics together scenarios Urgent Care centers – and collaborate. In addition, if the stand-alone medical offices now patient needs to be transferred to St. commonplace along Alabama Vincent’s Birmingham, the emergency highways – fill. department won’t have to start over. However, St. Vincent’s One The records can be shared – helping Nineteen’s Urgent Care Center, to decrease the patient’s length of stay opening later this year, is anything and time it might take for treatment. but commonplace. We will offer Another beneficial aspect of St. something more than immediate Vincent’s One Nineteen’s Urgent Care attention for sprains, swabs and sons is the coordination with a patient’s with sports forms. primary care physician. After leaving What makes our urgent care unique the Urgent Care Center, a patient’s is that it’s not a stand-alone center. primary care physician is contacted, By being a part of St. Vincent’s, our so they can include your treatment as patients will have access to the full part of your medical record. This helps range of expertise within our health to continue providing a continuum system. In addition, we are able to of care. Many Urgent Care facilities establish a continuum of care for the don’t have this level of coordination, patient. leaving primary care physicians An example of this is when a unaware of additional treatments and patient comes to St. Vincent’s prescriptions patients are receiving. One Nineteen’s Urgent Care with And if patients don’t have a primary
F
34 | ShelbyLiving.com
care physician, St. Vincent’s can offer a referral, so patients can form this key relationship with a physician who knows their medical history. In addition, we’ve designed every aspect of our urgent care facility to be centered around the needs of our patients. From convenient surface level parking to extended weekday and weekend hours to little to no wait times, the Urgent Care Center will offer patients the experience and expertise of St. Vincent’s Health System accessible right in their own community. St. Vincent’s One Nineteen’s Urgent Care Center will open soon, as part of the overall expansion project on the campus, which includes outpatient surgery and additional physician offices. The Urgent Care Center will be located at 7191 Cahaba Valley Road right off U.S. 280 on Alabama 119. To learn more about our full range of “Healthcare Like No Other services, visit Onenineteen. com. Stephanie Holderby is vice president of operations of St. Vincent’s Ambulatory Healthcare Network and executive director of St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. l
FEATURES
A path to publication
Vincent student has first novel published through Books-A-Million contest Story by AMY JONES Photos by EMILY KLEIN
36 | ShelbyLiving.com
E
ver since she was in the fifth grade, Melia Burrell has felt compelled to put pen to paper. That compulsion has resulted in 64 unfinished stories and — most importantly — one published novel. Now a junior at Vincent Middle High School, Melia had her book, “The Chronicles of the Secret Society: The End of the Standoff,” published through the Books-A-Million BAM! Publishing Contest in July of this year. Melia said she entered the contest, intended for students in grades 9-12, after seeing a flyer about the contest in the hall at school. “It seemed like a really good opportunity to actually publish something I’d written, and I could not let that opportunity pass me by,” she said. Melia actually began writing the short novel, which is 124 large-print pages, in the seventh grade. After she decided to enter the “Now that I know contest, she picked that people enjoy the novel back up and finished it in reading what I approximately three to four months, she said. enjoy writing, The novel, set in a there is no point future America, is about a dystopian society in me stopping. in which a race of Someone’s got genetically engineered humans, known as to feed the Specials, is locked in a bookworms in continuous battle with ordinary humans. The the world.” main character, Zaylee Cross, is a Special who -Melia Burrell finds herself caught up in the fray. Melia said she intends for the novel to be the first in a series. “I’m almost halfway through the second book and partially working on the third,” she said. “I don’t know how many books will be in the series overall, but I know where I’m heading with the story.” Melia didn’t actually win the Publishing Contest — there were three submissions that won, but the contest judges enjoyed Melia’s book so much that they decided to publish it as well. While the three winning submissions received other prizes, Melia said she was content with her outcome. “I was only published and given the opportunity to see my life goal accomplished at the age of 16, which is enough of a prize for me,” she said. Books-A-Million officials contacted Vincent High to let Melia know her novel would be published, and she said she had an unusual reaction to the news.
Welcome to the good life. Welcome to Shelby Living!
Subscribe today to receive a copy in your mailbox monthly!
• • • •
1 $20.4ear, y
e Arts & Culture for on sues 12 is Local Fashions Unique Home Features Monthly calendar of events and happenings
SHELBY Living To Subscribe visit ShelbyLiving.com or call 669-3131 December 2015 | 37
“(The librarian) pulled me out of class to tell me, which was probably a good thing because I was smiling and laughing hysterically in the hallway for a few minutes,” Melia said. “I didn’t think it was funny. I thought it was the best thing that ever happened to me, but when I get too nervous or excited I just start laughing until I can’t breathe.” BAM! Publishing is actually a self-publishing company, so Melia was involved with all phases of getting her book ready for print. She and her mother collaborated on the cover, which showcases a multicolored eye. “My mom drew the outline for it, and I did all of the coloring and shading,” she said. “So it’s one of a kind, I suppose.” Melia said she began writing because she enjoys the process and seeing reactions to what she writes. “As I grew up, my stories began being longer
than everyone else’s,” she said. “From there, my love for writing blossomed into a passion and a dream to become a true novelist.” After she finishes high school, Melia plans to attend college and major in English and creative writing. She hopes to continue writing and possibly also work as a whitewater rafting instructor. Melia said her experience with the BAM! Publishing Contest has only validated her belief that writing is her calling. “Now that I know that people enjoy reading what I enjoy writing, there is no point in me stopping,” she said. “Someone’s got to feed the bookworms in the world. I’m just happy I’m a part of it.” Readers can find “The Chronicles of the Secret Society: The End of the Standoff ” at the Brookwood Village Books-A-Million or online at Booksamillion.com. l
chelsea comprehensive dental Ryan A. Draiss, DMD
38 | ShelbyLiving.com
LEFT: “The Chronicles of Secret Society: The End of the Standoff” was recently published by Books-AMillion. RIGHT: Melia Burrell is a junior at Vincent Middle High School.
Meet Dr. Zachary Stone Dr. Stone is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. Dr. Stone earned his medical degree at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine. He completed his residency in internal medicine and pediatrics at Greenville Hospital System – University Medical Center, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, where he served as chief resident in 2009-2010. Dr. Stone is a native of Hoover, Alabama, and graduated from Hoover High School. He, his wife Stacy and their children live in Hoover and attend Prince of Peace Catholic Church.
Call us today at (205) 733-7110.
Sherri Clark, MD | Rebecca Miller, MD | Zachary Stone, MD 4745 Chace Circle, Suite 101 • Hoover, AL 35244 (Next to Taziki’s) Monday – Friday • 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
stvfamilycare.com/hoover
FEATURES
Oak Mountain High School graduate Cole Kinchler
40 | ShelbyLiving.com
Perfecting prose As a founder of Simply Prose, Cole Kinchler makes a splash in the publishing world Story by AMY JONES Photos CONTRIBUTED
A
re you an aspiring author who has a stack of manuscripts, but don’t know the next step toward getting them into print? Do you dream of seeing your name on the cover of a book, but you find yourself overwhelmed with the process of publication? Cole Kinchler, a 2012 Oak Mountain High School graduate, may be able to help. Kinchler, now a senior at Auburn studying supply chain management, is one of the founders of SimplyProse, a recently launched collaborative writing website that allows writers to receive feedback on their work from other writers. Once writers perfect their works, they can share them with other writers or request the services of literary professionals, such as publishing houses, illustrators, voice actors for audio books and literary agents. Kinchler, who launched the site with fellow Auburn seniors Jacob Wright
and Sharan Kalva, said the site helps “in making the editing process less expensive and time-consuming. Wright initially came up with the SimplyProse idea, but all three have been working on it since November 2014. “We think writing should be accessible to all, as everyone has a story to tell. Currently the process of writing a book can take up to several years and costs thousands,” Kinchler said. “We are here to make it easy for the individual writer to have their voice heard.” Kinchler said the strength of SimplyProse lies in its flexibility. “The best thing about SimplyProse is that there is virtually no limit to the types of writers that can use our site. We are initially targeting creative writers and students as we think they will most easily adopt our service,” Kinchler said. “However, as SimplyProse begins to grow, we could see it helping songwriters, academic journalists and even screenwriters as December 2015 | 41
well.” Kinchler, Wright and Kalva entered their idea in Auburn’s Tiger Cage Entrepreneurship Competition, where it won $5,000. After putting the idea through its paces for the Tiger Cage competition, Kinchler knew it had real potential. After the Tiger Case competition, Kinchler, wright and Kalva entered the Alabama Launchpad contest, which helps promote innovative startups from across the state. Kinchler and his co-founders had to submit the idea, business plan and financial information about SimplyProse as well as go through rounds of pitching their idea to the Alabama Launchpad judges. At the end of the competition, they were awarded $40,000, which will go toward web development, data and analytics software for the SimplyProse website and will help launch a marketing campaign for the business. The SimplyProse founders also recently presented at San Francisco’s TechCrunch, which is “the largest conference in the world for startups,” Kinchler said. TechCrunch, which has helped launch the rise of now-household names such as FitBit, Mint and Dropbox, invited Kinchler, Wright and Kalva to be the first team from Alabama ever to present their startup. Several venture capitalists have been in touch since the TechCrunch presentation, Kinchler said. Next, Kinchler and his cohorts plan to finish the website’s beta, raise money and attract users for the site. They are working on raising $300,000 in seed money for the company. The company is already valued in seven figures, Kinchler said. Kinchler plans to graduate in May 2016, at which point he will work on SimplyProse full time. He’s already turned down full-time job offers to devote his time to the startup — and he’s already devoting plenty of time to it right now. “While the three of us are currently putting in (40 hours a week) on SimplyProse, when we graduate we will transition to a real full time schedule for a startup of 60 to 70 hours a week,” he said. For more information on SimplyProse, visit Simplyprose.com, Facebook.com/simplyprose, or follow @SimplyProse on Twitter. Contact Kinchler at info@simplyprose.com. l 42 | ShelbyLiving.com
Simply Prose founders Cole Kinchler, Jacob Wright and Sharan Kalva
December 2015 | 43
CLEARANCE CENTERS
FEATURES
On the small screen Local film company shoots commercial in Mt Laurel Story and photo by MOLLY DAVIDSON
S
uper Bowl 50 viewers might see a familiar place in one of this year’s commercials. Hoover-based postproduction company Red Sky Studios turned Mt Laurel Avenue into a set for a potential Doritos advertisement on Nov. 3. “We’re filming a user-submitted Doritos commercial,” Red Sky Studios Chief Operating Officer and Technical Director Ben Bailey said. The film company is producing a 30-second commercial to submit to the Doritos Crash the Super Bowl contest. The contest winner will win $1 million and a chance to collaborate with movie director Zack Snyder, and their commercial could be aired during Super Bowl 50. “We’ve been planning this for a month,” Bailey said. Directed by Parker Adams, the advertisement features a man who was “ripped off ” and given an invisible bag of Doritos, rather than being upset, the man takes the invisible chip bag and drives off in his invisible Lamborghini with his invisible girlfriend. “You will literally see him floating down the street,” Bailey explained. Although only 30 seconds long, the
commercial requires extensive planning, filming and editing, Bailey explained. The Red Sky Studios film crew and cast for the commercial arrived in Mt Laurel at 8 a.m. and filmed for more than six hours. Next, the film will go through a week of digital editing, Bailey explained. The commercial footage will be digitally edited to show the driver suspended in the air in an invisible car. Red Sky Studios specializes in post-filming digital editing. The studio worked on the recent Erwin Brothers movie, Woodlawn, editing shots of Legion Field to reproduce the crowd of 40,000 that filled the stadium for the 1974 Woodlawn High School football game against Banks High School. “We went to Legion Field and shot all of Legion Field (empty),” Bailey said. “Then (we) had to fill it with people.” Red Sky Studios has worked on a number of other movies, including the Erwin Brothers’ films, Moms’ Night Out and October Baby. l
The Red Sky Studios crew films a commercial in Mt Laurel for the Doritos Crash the Super Bowl contest.
Send us your Shelby County events for our
SHELBY Living calendar!
Email Emily.sparacino@shelbyliving.com
46 | ShelbyLiving.com
Located on Hwy 280, east of I-459
GrandviewHealth.com
FOOD & DINING
treats Sweet
Stone Hollow Farmstead shares a caramel apple recipe for the holidays
Recipe by STONE HOLLOW FARMSTEAD Photographs by DAWN HARRISON 48 | ShelbyLiving.com
C
aramel apples have a festive feel to them. While historically associated with Halloween and carnivals, the treats are enjoyed throughout the year and make an easy and tasty holiday snack. Kraft, Inc. claims that an employee named Dan Walker came up with the idea for caramel apples in the 1950s. While that likely isn’t true – or is at least hard to prove – it makes for a great story. In this issue, Stone Hollow Farmstead offers a recipe for homemade caramel. The caramel is easy to cook, and perfect to throw together before a party. l Stone Hollow Farmstead is an artisan farm located at 2006 Dead Hollow Road in Harpersville. For more information, visit Stonehollowfarmstead.com or call 800-285-8950. Information from the story provided by Entrée.com.
December 2015 | 49
Medplex Medical Building 4517 Southlake Parkway Hoover, Alabama 35244
IS PROUD TO WELCOME INTO OUR EXPERT TEAM OF PHYSICIANS
Dr. John S. Kirchner FOOT/ANKLE SURGEON
ON-SITE MRI www.SouthlakeOrthopaedics.com 50 | ShelbyLiving.com
(205) 985–4111
Michael F. Blum, M.D. C.J. Talbert, M.D. Ekkehard Bonatz, M.D. Michael T. Ellerbusch, M.D. William D. Krauss, D.O. William S. Craig, M.D. William D. Sudduth, M.D. George Robert Booker, M.D.
Testing, Surgery & Rehabilitation all conveniently located in your neighborhood.
CARAMEL APPLES 1 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup cream 4 Tbsp. butter One vanilla bean, sliced open and scraped Salt 1. Mix the brown sugar, cream, butter and salt in a saucepan over mediumlow heat. 2. Cook while whisking gently for 5 to 7 minutes, until the mixture gets thicker. 3. Add the vanilla and cook another minute to thicken further. 4. Turn off the heat, cool slightly and pour the sauce into a bowl. 5. Put stick in apple and dip into caramel. Let cool/harden on wax paper. 6. Refrigerate leftover caramel in jar until cold.
December 2015 | 51
Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce
Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce C o m m u n i t y • C o m m e rc e • C o l l a b o r a t i o n
Business Connections The Leadership Secrets of Santa Claus Seminar Sponsor:
story of Santa as an engaging framework. The premise of this seminar is that Santa gives some very good advice for
those in a leadership role in any organization. The workshop will be held at Homewood Suites
of Inverness (215 Inverness Center Drive, Birmingham.) There is no cost to attend the seminar however box lunch is available for Chamber members $10 and “Future” members $20. Reservations requested by December 1st. Register online at www. shelbychamber.org or contact the Chamber at 663-4542 to register to attend.
Ring-In the Holiday Season with December 17 Business After Hours Shelby County’s premier business networking event has a “holiday” theme this month and Chamber members from the Calera, Greater Shelby, Montevallo and South Shelby chambers are invited to “celebrate the season” at the next Business After Hours event
presented by Shelby County Newspapers. Bring plenty of business cards, come ready to make some serious business contacts and earn a chance to win some prizes on December 17 from 5:30PM-7:00PM at Vizzini Farms Winery, Inc., 800 County Road 87, Calera. The
Presenting Sponsor
cost — which includes hot, heavy hors d’oeuvres and two
beverage coupons -- for any Chamber member is $10 per person and $20 for “Future” members. Reservations are required, so please register via email at info@shelbychamber.org, by phone at 663-4542 or online at www.shelbychamber.org by December 15. December 2015 | 53 Shelbychamber.org
Newsletter
Need a role model for effective leadership? Try Santa Claus! The Chamber will be hosting “The Leadership Secrets of Santa Claus” seminar on December 4th from 11:00AM until 1:00PM led by Damita Hill of Jefferson State Community College. The Leadership principles that will be taught will be: Build a Wonderful Workshop, Choose Your Reindeer Wisely, Make a List and Check it Twice, Listen to the Elves, Get Beyond the Red Wagons, Share the Milk and Cookies, Find Out Who’s Naughty and Nice, and Be Good for Goodness Sake. The workshop is based on a book which uses the
Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce
Happy Healthy Holidays It’s funny how the holidays come around at the same time every year yet we still stress and rush around like crazy, with an overloaded schedule! The pressure of your everyday life, extra social obligations, and the financial strain of all those gifts you “have” to buy, can really put a damper on your festive spirit. The holidays also throw your workouts and diet way off track. I am committed this year to keep focused and on schedule so I’m challenging myself (and you) to take
Newsletter
2015 Health Focus Sponsor
stress out of the holidays by setting some goals! uTo actually enjoy this wonderful season. uTo stick to my workout routine uTo maintain healthy eating habits Here are a few tips to help accomplish these goals:
1. Only say “yes” to holiday socials that are important to you. 2. Eat before you go so you don’t over indulge in unhealthy foods. 3. Put your workout on the calendar and DO IT! 4. Buy fresh foods that are easy to fix, grab and go.
RELAX, don’t over commit AND CHERISH every moment! Ritcha Garrett Living Nurtured For more information about healthy living visit Ritcha @ www.livingnurtured.com.
Get Special Offers and Free Checks! Become a Benefit Partner with America’s First! • Free Checks with Direct Deposit • Low Rates on Vehicle and Personal Loans • Home Loans • Special Coupons on Select Financial Products for Your Employees • Financial Education Workshops (Perfect for your Lunch and Learn)
To take advantage of this offer contact America’s First today! For more information, email benefitpartners@amfirst.org or call 205-320-4054 FEDERALLY INSURED BY NCUA For qualifying members only. Certain restrictions apply.
54 | ShelbyLiving.com Shelbychamber.org
Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce
Celebrating Growth
2015 Ribbon Cutting Sponsor
Thank you Pelham Flowers by Desiree’ for providing the ribbon and bows for the Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies.
Party Art held an Open House and Ribbon Cutting to commemorate its Grand Opening. Owner Abbey Chenault Thompson was joined in support by husband Steve, their children, Mayor Mark Hall, City Officials and Ambassadors.
The Petal Cart held a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on location at 136 Bowling Lane, Pelham. Owner, Lee Lee Gaissert cut the celebratory ribbon and was joined by Kayla Ellis, family, friends, Pelham Mayor Gary Waters, City Officials and Ambassadors.
Walmart Neighborhood Market held its Grand Opening Ceremony recently in Alabaster. Store Manager Jonathan Webb was joined in support by Alabaster Mayor Marty Handlon, City Officials, Walmart management, team members, family, friends and eager shoppers.
Congratulations to Toothbud Dentistry on its Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Celebration in Calera. Dr. Beau Bradford cut the celebratory ribbon and was joined in support by his family, team members, Calera and Greater Shelby County Chambers of Commerce Ambassadors and representatives.
Congratulations to Grandview Medical Center on its recent Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Construction included a physicians’ building, an emergency-room facility and a multiplestory parking garage that will offer 3,000 spaces. Tours of the facility were given to those attending the event.
Snapshots
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office held a Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting celebration for its new satellite office -- its North Substation which is located in the Greystone Park Business Center, 5511 U.S. 280, Suite 117, Hoover. Sheriff John Sameniego cut the celebratory ribbon and was joined by a host of supporters.
The Chamber’s Existing Business & Industry work group held its Annual Industry Block Party at host and sponsor Summer Classics in Pelham. The Industry Block Party featured a brief presentation by Summer Classics CEO Dick Cross, a tour led by Rob Robinson, Public Relations Manager and lunch afterwards. December 2015 | 55 Shelbychamber.org
Newsletter
HDC,LLC -- a large hunting store -- celebrated its Grand Opening. Owner, Nathan Hunt cut the Ribbon and was joined in support by Calera Mayor Jon Graham, City Officials, family and Ambassadors. HDC has a variety of hunting gear, clothing, firearms and equipment.
Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce
Welcome New Members (as of 10/20/2015)
2b Photography
Becca Bell
125 Aviators View Drive, Alabaster
Chappell CPA
David Chappell
137 Business Center Drive, Birmingham
Edgar’s Bakery, Inc. @ Cadence Place Edgar’s Bakery, Inc. @ Pelham
Lindsey Owens
Edgar’s Bakery, Inc. @ the Colonnade Greystone Golf & Country Club
499 Southgate Drive, Pelham
Debbie Odom
Mallory Bobba
244 1st Street SW, Alabaster
Helena High School
April Brand
1310 Hillsboro Parkway, Helena
Anne Moses
Ovation Media, Inc.
Kendall Nichelson
Pelham Automotive Service & Repair
Premier Answering Service of Alabama, Inc. Snap Fitness - Calera
Douglas Grandy
Health & Fitness Education - Schools
brendajcole.legalshieldassociate.com
2222 Highway 52, Helena
massageenvy.com
3422 Pelham Parkway, Pelham
Attorneys
Marketing Communications
pelhamautomotive.com
Automobile Repair
2 Chase Corporate Center Dr. lahrealestate.com/agents/peter_northcott/
Susan Smith
P.O. Box 1644, Alabaster
301 Airport Commons, Calera
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society - Alabama / Gulf Coast
answeralabama.com
Real Estate
Telecommunications
snapfitness.com/calera
Casey Wilson
Individual
Massage Therapy
mosespc.com
ovationmediainc.com
Bakery Golf
shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hhs
300 Cahaba Park Circle, Ste 100, Birmingham
Peter Northcott, Realtor / LAH Hoover Peter Northcott
Bakery
gymtime.fitness
250 Doug Baker Blvd, Ste 500, Birmingham
Greg Slaughter
Bakery
greystonecc.com
Brenda Cole 6301 Timberwolf Trail, Birmingham
Moses & Moses, PC
edgarsbakery.com
3409 Colonnade Parkway, Ste 1700, Birmingham edgarsbakery.com
4100 Greystone Drive, Birmingham
Sandra Johnstone
Accounting
edgarsbakery.com
Jonathan Fuller
Massage Envy Spa @ Greystone
Photography Services
chappellcpa.com
6801 Cahaba Valley Road, Birmingham
Gym Time
LegalShield
Newsletter
Linda Pimentel
2bphotographyllc.com
Health & Wellness
100 Chase Park South, Ste 220, Birmingham
lls.org
Community/Service Organizations The McBrayer Agency
David McBrayer
Webb Payroll Service Inc.
Devin Errett
122 1st Street South, Alabaster
agents.allstate.com/david-mcbrayer-alabaster-al.html Insurance
P.O. Box 756, Gardendale
webbpayroll.com
Payroll Services
“Keeping It Real” Program Making the Rounds with 9th Graders The Chamber’s Education Work Group has launched the 3rd year of its “Keeping It Real” Program. This program teaches 9th grade students about “real world” life choices by giving them a randomassigned “life” scenario— which includes marital/ family status, education, job and salary. The students then pay bills, make decisions on increasing education, adding a second job, etc. based on the random-assigned scenario. 56 | ShelbyLiving.com Shelbychamber.org
Sponsor:
Each year this program has been an eye-opening experience for the 9th graders and the volunteers that assist with the program. The Chamber is seeking volunteers on December 10 for Montevallo High
School. Volunteers would manage a station and assist the students as they make decisions “paying bills” and make “life choices” based their situation. If you or your colleagues, are interested in being a volunteer, please call Keyla Handley, Director,
Sponsor:
Community & Investor Development at 663-4542, or email keyla@shelbychamber. org. Volunteers would arrive at the schools as early as 7:30AM and the program would conclude by 3:00PM. Lunch will be provided for all volunteers.
Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce
Safety Awards
2015 Safety Awards Sponsor
All photographs courtesy of Neal Wagner & Jessa Pease of the Shelby County Reporter.
Alabaster Fire Department, Chief Jim Golden, Recipient John Aldrich & Lisa McMahon, Warren Averett & Chamber Chair
Calera Police Department, Chief Sean Lemley, Recipient Nicholas Burnett & Lisa McMahon, Warren Averett & Chamber Chair.
Calera Fire Department, Chief Sean Kendrick, Recipient Tim Nabors & Lisa McMahon, Warren Averett & Chamber Chair.
Columbiana Fire Department, Assistant Chief Jerry Lamb, Recipient Rodney Reed & Lisa McMahon, Warren Averett & Chamber Chair.
Columbiana Police Department, Chief Lamar Vick, Recipient David Alexander & Lisa McMahon, Warren Averett & Chamber Chair.
Helena Fire Department, Captain Chaed Agee, Recipient Caleb Draper & Lisa McMahon, Warren Averett & Chamber Chair.
Helena Police Department, Chief Pete Folmer, Lieutenant Brad Flynn, Recipient Josh Lindsey & Lisa McMahon, Chamber Chair. December 2015 | 57 Shelbychamber.org
Newsletter
First Commercial Bank sponsored the 2015 Annual Safety Awards Program.
Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce
Safety Awards
2015 Safety Awards Sponsor
Newsletter
All photographs courtesy of Neal Wagner & Jessa Pease of the Shelby County Reporter.
Lisa McMahon, Warren Averett & Chamber Chair, Chelsea Fire & Rescue, Recipient Paul Williams & Chief Wayne Shirley.
Lisa McMahon, Warren Averett & Chamber Chair, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Recipient Chris Blevins & Sheriff John Samaniego.
Lisa McMahon, Warren Averett & Chamber Chair, Alabaster Police Department, Recipient Charles Brewer & Captain Jeff Anthony.
Mayor Earl Niven, Chelsea Citizens Observer Patrol Recipient Eddie Huggins & Lisa McMahon, Warren Averett & Chamber Chair.
Montevallo Police Department, Chief Jeremy Littleton, Recipient Tim Alexander & Lisa McMahon, Warren Averett & Chamber Chair.
North Shelby Fire District, Eugene Buddy Tyler, Recipient Donny Acton & Lisa McMahon, Warren Averett & Chamber Chair.
Pelham Police Department, Chief Larry Palmer, Recipient Bob Howard & Lisa McMahon, Warren Averett & Chamber Chair.
Pelham Fire Department, Recipient David Douglass & Deputy Chief Blair Sides.
58 | ShelbyLiving.com Shelbychamber.org
Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce
Ambassador of the Month
(as of 11/01/15)
Officers Lisa McMahon Warren Averett, LLC (Chair) Paul Rogers NobleBank & Trust (Chair-elect)
2015 Ambassador Program Sponsor:
is First Vice President of the Board of The Arc of Alabama. He and his wife of 38 years share full-time care giving duties for their special needs son who lives with them.
If you are interested in discussing advertising opportunities contact Rhett at 669-3131 or email rhett.mccreight@ shelbycountyreporter.com.
Contact Us Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce 1301 County Services Drive Pelham, Alabama 35124 Office: (205) 663-4542 • Fax: (205) 663-4524 info@shelbychamber.org www.shelbychamber.org
Bill Keller Renasant Bank (Immediate Past Chair) John Browning Cahaba Valley Computer Services (Vice Chair, Business Development & Support) Keith Brown Jefferson State Community College (Vice Chair, Community & Workforce Development) Gregg Maercker First Commercial Bank — Retired (Vice Chair, Finance & Administration) Joe Meads Sain Associates (Vice Chair, Governmental Affairs) Charlie Stevens Thompson Tractor Company, Inc. (Vice Chair, Membership & Marketing) Board of Directors William Carroll (2015) Armstrong Relocation & Companies David Platt (2015) Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama Jim Purvis (2015) A. C. Legg, Inc.
Ashley Robinett (2015) Alabama Power Company Tim Benefield (2016) Buffalo Rock Company Linda Cencula (2016) Avadian Credit Union Steve Chapman (2016) Alabama Gas Corporation Kathy Copeland (2016) White Rock QuarriesVincent Hills Bruce Fryer (2016) Lhoist North America Bill Connor (2017) America’s First Federal Credit Union Chris Grace (2017) Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon, Inc. Katie McDowell (2017) Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. Michael Smith (2017) The GREAT, The GOOD and The GONE Andrew McGee (*) Hampton Inn & Suites 280 at Eagle Point Jeff Brown (*) Brownstone Marketing Solutions Amanda Mundy (*) Grandview Medical Center David Schlueter (*) Buck Creek Stained Glass Brent Stewart (*) Renasant Bank *Serving a one-year term in 2015.
December 2015 | 59 Shelbychamber.org
Newsletter
Congratulations to our Ambassador of the Month, Bruce Koppenhoefer, Renaissance Enterprises. With a 40-year career that evolved from equipment engineer to product manager to marketing manager and now communications director at Revere Control Systems in Hoover, Bruce also provides marketing communications services through his sole proprietorship, Renaissance Enterprises. In this capacity, he provides his clients with a single source for all their marketing communications needs, whether it be development of presentations or sales literature, newsletter implementation, ad design, or business writing. In addition to his volunteer activities as a Chamber Ambassador, Bruce also serves on the Board of The Arc of Shelby County, a non-profit serving individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, and
GSCCC Board of Directors
Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce
CHAMBER Events Read more details or register for events online at www.shelbychamber.org or the Chamber office 663-4542. CANCELLATION POLICY REMINDER: Cancellation for a paying event must be made TWO days prior to the event.
December 2015
Newsletter
2 2 4
8 8 9
8:30AM - 10:00AM - Ambassadors Work Group Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr, Pelham 4:00PM - 5:00PM - Small Business Work Group Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr, Pelham 11:00AM - 1:00PM - “The Leadership Secrets of Santa Claus” Seminar Sponsor: Homewood Suites of Inverness Presented by Damita Hill, Jefferson State Community College Homewood Suites, 215 Inverness Center Drive, Birmingham Reservations requested by December 1. Investment: No cost for seminar but lunch is available at $10 members, $20 “Future” members. 8:30AM - 9:30AM - Education Work Group Shelby County Instructional Services Center, 601 First Street South, Alabaster Calera Chamber Monthly Luncheon 11:30AM - 1:00PM/Timberline Golf Club 300 Timberline Trail, Calera Investment: $12. No reservation required. 8:30AM - 9:30AM - Existing Business & Industry Work Group Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon, Inc., 3535 Grandview Pkwy, Ste 500, Birmingham
10 11 15 16 16 17 17 25
7:30AM - 3:00PM - Keeping It Real Program Sponsors: Legacy Community Federal Credit Union & The UPS Store Caldwell Mill Rd/ Hoover Montevallo High School, 980 Oak Street, Montevallo Volunteers needed. Contact Keyla Handley, 663-4542 8:30AM - 9:30AM - Health Services Work Group Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr, Pelham Entrepreneur Roundtable I Sponsor: Business Telephones, Inc. 8:00AM - 10:00AM 8:15AM - 9:30AM - Board of Directors’ Meeting Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr, Pelham Montevallo Chamber Monthly Luncheon 11:30AM - 1:30PM/Parnell Memorial Library 377 Park Dr, Montevallo Investment: $20. No reservation required. 8:30AM - 9:30AM - Governmental Affairs Work Group Sain Associates, Two Perimeter Park South, Ste 500 East, Birmingham 5:30PM - 7:00PM - Holiday Business After Hours Presenting Sponsor: Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. Vizzini Farms Winery, Inc., 800 County Road 87, Calera Reservations requested by Tuesday, December 15. Investment: Members $20, “Future” members $30 which includes hors d’oeuvres and two beverage coupons. Chamber closed for Christmas Holiday
Your Chamber at Work (September 12 - October 16, 2015)
60 | ShelbyLiving.com Shelbychamber.org
Facebook: 38 New Likes, 124 Visits and 6,219 Post Reaches, 2,349 Total Likes.
Responded to 178 requests for business & community information.
Twitter: 2,403 Followers, 191 Tweets, 17,700 impressions, 243 Profile Visits and 7 Mentions.
Notarized 52 “Certificates of Origin” for Shelby County companies.
SHELBY SPOTTED
2
1
3 4
5
7
6
9
Barktoberfest
Hundreds of dogs and dog owners flocked to the Helena Amphitheater on Saturday, Oct. 17 for the inaugural Barktoberfest hosted by Two by Two Rescue.
8 10
11
1. MarySue Walker and Lisa Whitman 2. Jason and Heather Narron 3. Britton Garrett and Hannah Brooks 4. Dan Corson and Laura Corson 5. Ben and Eden Nichols 6. Stephanie and Andrew 7. Gina Macintosh and Tyler Roy 8. Melissa Brown 9. Sean and Natasha Yoder 10. Cody Gray and Ashley Batty 11. Casie Clough, Chelsea, Andra and Meagan Martin
December 2015 | 61
SHELBY SPOTTED
1
2
4
3
GSCCC Industry Block Party
5
The Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce hosted its second annual Industry Block Party at Summer Classics in Pelham Oct. 8. 1. Carey Hoerner and John Smith 2. Shelby County Manager Alex Dudchock, Rob Robinson and Summer Classics CoCEO Dick Cross 3. Chris Grace and Lynn Ray 4. Geoff Feagin, Lynn Ray, Dick Cross and Fred Smith 5. Heather and Copeland Russell with Keith Barfield and Benny Cunningham 6. Cassandra Spencer and Claire Davis 7. Charlie Bell and Barry Saunders
62 | ShelbyLiving.com
6
7
8
9
10
8. Celeste Russell, Kacy Carroll and Mary Margret Stephenson 9. Cindy Vinson and Mary Laugherty 10. Ashley McCollough and Anamarie Bratcher 11. Heather Hartfield, Tammie Chafton, Katrina Lovett and Eric Chambers
11
December 2015 | 63
SHELBY SPOTTED
1
3
2
5
6
4 7
Shelby County High Homecoming Parade
8
The Shelby County High School Homecoming Parade was held Oct. 16 in Columbiana. 1. Jalanda Carter and Coby Norwood 2. Lloyd Nicholson, Terry Davis and Owen Joiner 3. Ashley Horton, Zoey Horton and Anna Beth Gray 4. Connor Sanders, Anna Bearden, Maddie Howard and Jaycob Sickles 5. Winter Lamon, Autumn Knight, Asa Lamon and Summer Knight 6. Zoey Bishop and Megan Bishop 7. Rebecca, Timothy and Aiden Marley 8. Denton Keller, Patrick Decker, Heather Keller and Landon Keller 9. A.J. Pickett, Christian Reed, Zachary Hatter and Donovan Portis 10. Maddie Howard and Ezra Hunt
64 | ShelbyLiving.com
9
10
11
12
13
14 15
11. Tori Wilson, Matt Wilson, Demi Wilson, Jenny Morris and Sawyer Morris 12. C.R. Goodwin 13. Brieanna Lowe and Dianna Lowe 14. Elsa Harper, Liv Harper and Emmie Howard 15. Casen Jones 16. Isabella and Ryan Davis
16
December 2015 | 65
SHELBY SPOTTED
1
2
3
South Shelby Chamber of Commerce October luncheon
4
5
Brian Massey with St. Vincent’s One Nineteen spoke at the South Shelby Chamber of Commerce luncheon on Oct. 1 at Columbiana United Methodist Church. 1. Marcella Baker with Ruth and Don Driggers 2. Jacqueline Gardner, Lauren Thomason, Emily Salillas and Lauren Nichols 3. Vicki Everett and Comedienne Joy 4. Amaris Echols, Gene Rowley, Mike Cooley and Pat McDanal 5. Becky Landers and Kay Ray 6. Russell Scruggs and Shanon Hamilton 7. Michael Bruno, Tim Cahalane, Krista Cahalane and Halley Power
66 | ShelbyLiving.com
7
6
8
9
10
8. Tequila Scott and Herbert Orise 9. Pat McDanal, Eddie Huggins, Mike Cooley and Don Robinson 10. Sarah Floyd and Meghan Burtis 11. Casey Morris, Elise Hearn and Russell Scruggs
Grateful 11
thankful
blessed
December 2015 | 67
SHELBY SPOTTED
1
3
Greystone Ladies Club October luncheon
2 4
5
6
7
8
9
The Greystone Ladies Club held a luncheon Oct. 14 at the Founders Clubhouse.
1. Judy Arnold, Helen Hampton, Barbara Irvin, Joice Watts, Alicia Cuevas, Carole Marks, Katilla Farley and Wilma Thompson 2. Kelley Rowan, Judy Hollis, Kathy Frey and Julie Kim 3. Beth Yoder and Sylvia Stagner 4. Carole Marks, Ranea Breen and Tina Douglass 5. Betty Galbraith and LaRue Carter 6. Hiltrud Hollibaugh and Barbara Brickner 7. Dana Hamilton, Laura Tomko and Katilla Farley 8. Betty Galbraith, LaRue Carter and Julie Kim 9. Lynette Roberts and Shirl Ward
68 | ShelbyLiving.com
SHELBY SPOTTED
Shoal Creek Ladies Luncheon
1
Residents of Shoal Creek met for a Ladies Luncheon on Oct. 22. The featured speaker was Grandview Medical Center COO Drew Mason.
2 5
3
1. Caroline Little, Joyce Mitchell, Mary Ruth Robertson and Jane Ketcham 2. Stanlee Chew and Janell Bennett 3. Karolyn Wangstad, Nancy Lindsay, Ganyelle Moore and Linda McGarr 4. Cindy Montague and Jamelle Shaw 5. Mavis Ebbert and Pam Yarbrough
4
Don’t miss the Biggest Savings of the Year! THE 2015s ARE GOING FAST!
2015 SILVERADO UP TO
$11,000 OFF 1620 MONTGOMERY HWY WWW.HENDRICKCHEVYBIRMINGHAM.COM
*Discount off MSRP on select models. See dealer for details. Expires 12/31/15.
December 2015 | 69
SHELBY SPOTTED
1
2
3
PHS Homecoming Panther Prowl
4
5
6
The Pelham Panthers marched down Bearden Road Oct. 8 to celebrate PHS Homecoming week. Supporters clad in Panther gear cheered as floats passed by. 1. Wendy Ainsworth and Madison Ward 2. Christy Drake, Amy Bradley, Leslie Long and Kelly Hall 3. Mckenzie Little with Bailee Bradley 4. Cheryl and Ralph Hafner with Tammy Causey 5. Felicia and Brodie Bragg 6. Leslie Long and Vicki Lehr 7. Vickey Letson, Robin Willingham, Melissa Krebs, Carla Christian, Christy Drake and Felicia Bragg
70 | ShelbyLiving.com
7
8
9
11
10
8. Emil, Tara and Jonah Shapach 9. Erin and Mackenzie Gilkerson 10. Beth and Chloe Plummer 11. Juan and Maria Adan 12. Johnny Massey and Gregg Vinson
12
December 2015 | 71
SHELBY SPOTTED
2
1
3
5
4 6
Helena Elementary School 1st Grade Performance
Parents and family members gathered in the cafeteria of Helena Elementary School to watch the first grade music performance that students have been working on since the beginning of the school year. 1. Deidre Festavan, Joanne Hoff, Allison Festavan and Cade Festavan 2. The Willises 3. Chris and Aubrey Williamson 4. Tom and Riley Grace Kitchens 5. Lauryn, Tony and Kellen Schultz 6. Angela Duke, Charles, Trace, Gabi and Nikki Miles 7. Robert and Debbie Ellis 8. Stacey Lockard and Stephanie Glass
72 | ShelbyLiving.com
7
8
9
10
11
9. Brandon, Laura, Grayson and Presley Mayer 10. Brad, Daniel, Christy and Brady Benton 11. Chris, Bethany and Gavin Lawley 12. Charles Lockard, Knox Glass, Jeannie Lockard and Aiden Glass
12
December 2015 | 73
SHELBY SPOTTED
2
1
4
3
5
Birmingham Boutique Blowout
6
Birmingham Boutique Blowout returned to the Pelham Civic Complex Oct. 17-18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering guests a chance to peruse more than 50 vendors. 1. Ashleigh, Tracey and Heather Hogan 2. Bella Farmer with Jordyn and Amanda Burleson 3. Jessie and Billy Barnhill 4. Dottie Bailey, Heather Reeves, Lindsey Jones, Rebecca Purvis and Jocelyn Dillard 5. Jamie and Ashlynn Loftis 6. Monica Rory and Tresia Peterson 7. Haley and Justin Taylor 8. Nicole Barker and Megan Newton
74 | ShelbyLiving.com
7
8
9
10
11
12
9. Jordan Brooks and Laurie Wilkins 10. Meredith York 11. Kristy Osburn 12. Sarah Praytor and Madison Rhodes 13. Kate McGee and Rachel Stallings
13
December 2015 | 75
76 | ShelbyLiving.com
CLASSIFIEDS
Marketplace Shelby Living • 205.669.3131
ACCEPTANCE LOAN COMPANY Personal Loans! Let us Pay Off Your Title Loans! Come by Acceptance Loan and apply for a loan today. 224 Cahaba Valley Rd Pelham, AL 35124 205-663-5821
cost. Meets 1st and 3rd Mondays 6:30. Contact Tom Owens, Director: t_m_owens@ bellsouth.net AS SEEN ON HGTV’s “Tiny Houses” Rustic cottages that you can put anywhere! Visit Atkinson Homes in Childersburg, AL- across from Cadence Bank 256-378-1201
ShelbyLiving.com
Bibb Medical Center • LPN’s and RN’s BMC Nursing Home • CNA and LPN’s All shifts: PT & FT positions available Contact HR: bmchr@ bibbmedicalcenter.com Apply Online at: bibbmedicalcenter.com
Ebay isn’t the only place you can bid. Birmingham Duplicate Bridge Club, 144 Business Center Drive, Automation Personnel Birmingham, AL 35244. Services Montgomery 205-560-0706 www.bridgewebs.com/ is Hiring! Machine birmingham Operators •Quality Beginner and Refresher Assurance Operator Lessons beginning •Production JOBS IN ALABAMA!! September 2015. •Accounting Operator AIDT assists employers American Contract •Many More! throughout AL by Bridge League Call (334)274-1004 identifying qualified For More Info applicants by Journeymen recruitment, screening Electricians, $24 per & training services. Visit APPLY NOW! hour plus insurance. Baugh Ford in Clanton www.aidt.edu/jobs for Helpers $9.60 to $19.20 is Hiring Automotive latest jobs & training! per hour depending Salespersons on experience. Greater Valid DL required. American Proteins, Birmingham area. Call Inc.Hiring Drivers Home Email resume to autojobsclanton@gmail. 205-849-5522 for Daily, Great benefits details. com package (including: Fax: (205)755-6443 health/ dental/ vision Brandon Carlton’s insurance), paid vacation OR apply in person. WORLD OF DOGS and holidays, quarterly Bama Concrete Hiring Bring Your Dog To Us safety bonus, 401K For Training Mixer Drivers • Local retirement plan. Need Any Age • Any Breed Class A CDL with tanker deliveries. Class-B+ Results Guaranteed! CDL, 2yrs MINIMUM endorsement, one We customize dog heavy haul experience/ year verifiable driving CleanMVR. Competitive to owner. For an experience. appointment or free Pay/Great Benefits. Contact Jamie Sewell phone consultation call: Apply in person: at 256-970-6133 or 205.305.6374 Or Email: 2180 Hwy 87, Ronnie Demonia hisdogfirst@bellsouth. Alabaster, 35007 256-970-6109 net EOE 20 Years of Experience Barten’s Media • Let us help you find drivers! 4 Years professionally NEED HELP FINDING • 618-965-9505 • A JOB? Piano Tuning / Organ Asbury Career Transition Newspaper, Print & Servicing, Moving, Online Advertising Ministry Storage, Refinishing and (ACT) can help at no Company Drivers and Owner Operators Home at least once a wk. Exc benefits, pay. Must have Class A CDL w Hazmat & Tanker endorsements, 2 yrs OTR exp, good safety record. 800-338-2717
Repair Trained by the School for the Blind Buddy Gray 205-822-0482 or 800-593-2462 CDL Skills & Test Training, LLC Day & Evening Classes Hoover/Pelham Area 205-253-5960 • cdlskillstesting.com CENTRAL ALABAMA FABRICATORS has openings for FITTERS and CERTIFIED WELDERS. Competitive wages, BCBS & 401K. Contact Richard 205-669-6120 or apply: 106 Industrial Pkwy, Columbiana, AL CAGLE SOD FARM 419 Hybrid Bermuda $1.35 per square yard Meyers Zoysia $2.50 per square yard Empire Zoysia $3.00 per square yard Delivery available 662-365-3152 www.caglesod.com Vintage Jewelry Just for Her! (at bargain prices) WE BUY GOLD Cash World Pawn & Jewelry Corner of Hwy 280 and 119 205-995-1018 FOR SALE 3 Large Waterfront Lots at The Cove subdivision on Lake Mitchell. No reasonable offer refused-MUST SELL!!! For more information call 205-365-0700
Class A CDL Drivers needed for Birmingham Coca-Cola and Tuscaloosa Coca-Cola Bottling Companies. Driving experience is required. Apply in person at: 4600 East Lake Blvd. Birmingham, AL 35217 Columbiana Health and Rehabilitation, LLC is hiring for the following positions • LPN Charge Nurse • Certified Nursing Assistant • Housekeeping Assistant, Part time. Interested applicants should apply in person to: 22969 Hwy 25, Columbiana, AL. Resumes may also be sent to: shannon. bell@northporthealth. com Columbiana Villas NOW LEASING 22055 Hwy 25 Apt A-2 Columbiana, AL 35051 Rental office (205) 669-6505 TDD/TTY (800) 548-2546 This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. FIREWOOD-OAK or HICKORY Pick up - only 6 cents per pound. Commercial and Residential delivery also available. Columbiana Wood Products 21421 Hwy 25, Columbiana (205) 671-5202
December 2015 | 77
Cook’s Pest Control Now Hiring Salespeople, Pest Technicians, Termite Technicians. Apply in person at 5224 Caldwell Mill Rd, Birmingham, AL 35242 or online at www.cookspest.com. NOW HIRING! Warehouse Workers, Forklift Drivers, Loaders, Unloaders and Labelers. Please apply in person at: 3536 Hwy 31 • Calera, AL 35040 Premier Staffing Solutions Soon The Mark Of The Beast Will Be Enforced! Free book & bible study! In God We Trust Ministries P.O. Box 171 Samantha, AL 35482 (205)339-4837 ”WE CUSTOMIZE FOCUS LIGHTING FOR TREES, SHRUBBERY, PATHFINDERS, ETC!” • CUSTOMIZED PATIO FIREPITS, IRRIGATION INSTALLS, & YEAR-ROUND WEED CONTROL PKGS • 15% DISCOUNT • GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE dawsonlandscapegroup. com • 205-532-9793 $5,000 RN Sign-On Bonus For More Information Contact Annie.Miller @dchsystem.com Apply online at: www.dchsystem.com TARGET AUCTION. Advanced Real Estate Marketing. 800-476-3939 www.targetauction.com Welder Training Short Term Licensing Call for Details 866-432-0430 ESDschool.com $3000 SIGN ON BONUS NEW PAY SCALE TO QUALIFYING DRIVERS EVERGREEN 78 | ShelbyLiving.com
TRANSPORT, is accepting applications for local drivers in the Calera and Leeds, AL, area. Must have class A CDL, good driving record, 1 yr verifiable tractor trailer experience. Good pay and benefits. Apply in person at 8278 Hwy 25 South, Calera, AL, or call for info 205-668-3316.
205-326-0833 Granger, Thagard & Assoc. Jack F. Granger #873
yrs exp. CDL required. Drug Test Required. 205-836-2038 or 205-229-7144
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-4pm Equal Opportunity Provider/Employer
Hiring Stylists in Calera Average Pay $12 & Up 205-966-7254
Joe’s Tree Service Free Estimates! Competitive Pricing! Hauling, tree trimming, complete removal, stump grinding, bobcat work. Licensed & insured. In business for 20 years. 205-836-2038
FT Drivers Needed. Must be willing to work days, nights or weekends. Wages begin at $10/hr. www. MacsDelivers.com 866-217-1928 or email amy@macsdelivers.com MACS Courier Service
Hancock Plumbing & Drain “The job’s not done till Momma’s satisfied” Residential • Commercial • Licensed • Evergreen Transport, LLC has an immediate Insured • Free Estimates • 205-612-8434 • opening for Day & Night Shift Class B Diesel hancockplumbing Mechanics at its terminal drainservice.com • in Calera, Alabama. Job bigdade1962@gmail. duties include repairing, com maintaining and Hardee’s Now Hiring overhauling of heavy •Crew Members/Hoover duty fleet truck/trailers. •Management/Calera If interested, please Email resume to: contact Shane Jones @ hardees20 07@ 205-668-3316 or apply bellsouth.net in person @ 8278 Hwy 25 South in Calera, AL. LPN’s, RN’s, CNA’s Full-time & part-time • IMMEDIATE 2nd & 3rd Shift OPENINGS! Housekeeping/Janitorial, Apply in person: Warehouse, Dishwasher, Hatley Health Care 300 Medical Ctr Dr Material Handler Clanton, AL 35045 Apply Now at www.fcpersonnel.com Hernandez First Choice Personnel Remodeling, 7001 Crestwood Blvd, Construction & More Suite 118 Remodeling, Painting Birmingham, AL 35201 (Interior/Exterior), 205-510-3100 Roofing, Brickwork, Hardwood Floor, Carpet, Clanton First United Sunrooms, Decks/ Methodist Porches/Stairs, Electrical, PT Kitchen Coordinator & New Construction. Wed Suppers, Sun References Available. Breakfast, & Special Licensed/Fully Insured. Meals 205-837-2198 Please apply at 207 8th www. St. No, Clanton hernandezcompany.info M-F 8-4:30, closed at hernandezcompany. lunch info@gmail.com GRANGER LAND CDL-A Drivers Needed SERVICES, LLC for Local and OTR Bush Hogging NO Tanker/Hazmat Heavy Brush Cutting Endorsement Req’d! Land Clearing J&M Tank Lines, Inc Road & Driveway Work www.jmtank.com 334-779-2314 Call Jeff Sandlin @ 256GrangerLandServices. 245-3933. com ONLINE AUCTIONS www.GTAOnline Auctions.com
Tree Climber / Bucket Operator Top pay guaranteed. 5
Others buy Gold, We buy Jewelry! 205-251-3381 Downtown Birmingham www.levysfinejewelry. com Lil Angels Learning Center Enrollment for ages 3 weeks to 12 years! Meals & Transportation to Most Local Schools included in 1 Low Price! 200 Ridge Dr., Pelham 205-663-1852 APPLY NOW!! LYONS HR IS HIRING • Production Workers • Grinders • Forklift Operators • Maintenance Techs Call 205-943-4820 M&M Trucking Company Hiring – Experienced Trailer and Tractor Trailer Drivers Minimum three years verifiable experience required. Tanker and dump experience a plus. Apply in person w/ MVR at M&M Trucking Company. 960 Lee Road 10 • Auburn, AL 36830 Marble Valley Manor Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many On-Site Services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga 256-245-6500 TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) 800-548-2546(T/A)
MASONRY UNLIMITED Historical restoration, backyard ponds & waterfalls, problem water proofing, cultural stone, retaining walls & steps, architectural block, stamped concrete. Paul (205) 544-8433 Dale (205) 238-1546 Stainless Fab Shop in need of TIG welder with experience in welding and finishing stainless equipment. Driver’s License Required. Call M-Th 8-4:30 205-945-9654 McDonald’s is Now Hiring in Chelsea, Pelham & Alabaster! Apply at www. mcalabama.com GUITAR INSTRUCTION If you possess an impassioned desire to study the guitar, I can develop your skills to levels exceeding your expectations. Michael Shaw 205-670-5020 Shake up your career!!! Are you looking for something new and FUN? Milo’s is always looking for great managers to come join our growing and dynamic team. Apply online at miloshamburgers.com Montgomery Stockyard Drop Station at Gray
& Son’s in Clanton. Call Lane at 205-3894530. For other hauling arrangements, contact Wes in Harpersville 205-965-8657
in Alabama at least 2 years. • Have A High School Diploma or GED. • Are at least 18 years old. Complete your application on line at www.naonsite.com
information and to apply, please visit http:// qchcweb.applicantpro. com.
The Salvation Army Alabaster is Hiring Seasonal Bell Ringers THE MORTGAGE for Christmas for Both OUTLET, INC. Shelby and Chilton •Offering Purchase/ Counties A Peace of Mind In Refinances Duration of employment w/CREDIT SCORES 580+ Home Care Do you need a caregiver? will be from November •100% CashOut & 1st-December 24th. 24Hr/Companion/Sitter/ Purchase Programs Applicants must be 18 Personal Care/Respite •FHA Streamline–No years or older. A driver’s Care/Specialized Care Appraisal/Closing Cost license is helpful but Private Pay/Long-term •FHA/CONVENTIONAL/ not required. Interested Care Insurance/ USDA/VA applicants can Veteran’s Benefits. Call Glenda Popwell contact Captain Rufus We are a Non-medical 205-755-4577 or McDowell at (205)663Company 1-800-365-9016 GJP@ 7105 starting October (205) 671-5102 moneyoutlet.com 6th, to apply. NMLS #7371/AL#50594 Class A CDL Drivers Pelham’s best kept Needed Immediately Class-A CDL Driversecret! Apartments are 3 Yrs Min Driving Dry Bulk/Pneumaticleasing fast so visit us History With Dump Birmingham,AL today: 205-663-1101 or Trailer Experience Must be 25+, have *$1000 Retention Bonus meadowwoodapts.info clean driving record, *Local Hauling two-years tractor/trailer Immediate *Home Nights experience. Positions!!!! APPLY ONLINE: Will train drivers on Positions needed: perdidotrucking.com tank. Good benefitsPerdido Trucking Service, Warehouse • Sales Reps almost all drivers home • Assistant Manager LLC everynight. • Delivery Drivers • 251.470.0355 Contact Keith Customer Service. Laid 205-438-4959 back atmosphere, good CDL CLASS-A AND pay, plenty of hours Commercial Furniture CDL CLASS-B MAIL available! Company DRIVERS NEEDED Dealership is vehicles •LOCAL BIRMINGHAM currently accepting to qualified individuals! ROUTES applications for an Call Andrew 9am-7pm •CLEAN 5 YEAR MVR experienced Furniture • Monday-Saturday •GREAT PAY PLUS Installer. We offer at (205)490-1003 or BENEFITS excellent pay and •VERY NICE EQUIPMENT (205)243-6337 benefits. Qualified CALL 904-824-2007 applicants should call CLOCK REPAIR SVS. OR EMAIL USPFS@ (205)433-8334 * Setup * Repair * OUTLOOK.COM E.O.E M/F/D/V/ADA Maintenance I can fix your Mother’s clock. HUGHES NET • Gen4 Manufacturing/ Alabaster/ Pelham Call High-Speed Satellite Assembly positions Stephen (205) 663-2822 available in Calera area. Internet Is Available Where You Full time hours, all shifts TaylorMade available. Call today 205- Live! Transportation Hiring FREE Standard 267-3910 CDL Drivers for Flatbed Installation Regional Division! BCBS Limited Time Offer! Production / Insurance After 30 Days. Ask about FREE router! Manufacturing To apply call: (334)366Call 800-266-4409 Vance, Alabama 2269 or email: s.smith@ www.pbsinternet.com Starting pay: $12.00 – taylormadeinc.com $14.50 /hr. Quality Correctional • Have 2 years+ Health Care has several TEMP FORCE HIRING Production/ NOW: nursing opportunities Manufacturing Assembly and Inspection! in Columbiana and experience. Childersburg & Vincent. Pell City. For more • Have Recently Lived
Full Time. 1st and 2nd Shifts. Entry Level OK! Apply at TempForce: (256)245-8367 www.tempforcejobs.com Barn Stable Assistant North Shelby County Area in beautiful gated community part time, flexible schedule, $9/hour. Call (205) 296-2329 or (205 )991-4653 for directions & information. Full Time w/Benefits Monday-Friday 6:00 am-2:30 pm Landscape Position for Gated Community in North Shelby Co. Call (205) 296-2329 or (205) 991-4653 for directions & information. Hiring Professional Flatbed/RGN Truck Drivers. $5,000 sign on bonus. 2 years of Flatbed or RGN experience required. Highly competitive percentage based pay. michael@usspecialized. com Call (205)763-1090 MANUFACTURED HOMES MOBILE HOMES with land. Ready to move in. Owner financing with approved credit. 3 bdrm., 2 bath. No renters.1-205-289-8899 VMFhomes.com Become a Dental Asst. in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website www. capstonedentalassisting. com or call (205) 561-8118 and get your career started! ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS CDL-A Driver With DUMP EXPERIENCE To pull Frameless Dump Trailers – 2 years T/T experience, safe
driving record and good employment history required. •Paid Uniforms •Paid Boot Allowance •Paid Safety Bonus •Paid Vacation •Matching 401K •BC/BS, Life, Dental, S/T &L/T Disability Insurance •Direct Deposit Call Valerie: 800-749-5552 or apply online at www.walpoleinc.com EOE/DFWP NOW HIRING CDL-A TRUCK DRIVERS $5000 Sign-On Bonus 3-years experience/Hazmat Endorsement required. Excellent benefit package: 401K, PTO/ paid holidays, Insurance. Call Mary: 979-413-2140 or 979413-2192 jobs@westernintl.com $5000 SIGN-ON BONUS! HIRING CDL TEAM A DRIVER Apply online: www.westernintl.com Or Contact Corporate: Western International Gas & Cylinders 979-413-2140 or 979-413-2192 (EOE) HOST AN EXCHANGE STUDENT TODAY! World Heritage www.whhosts.com 1-800-888-9040 or 404-307-8830 info@world-heritage.org Painters Needed! Minimum 3 years experience w/ new residential painting, dependable transportation, clean appearance. Must be Drug/Alcohol free. References Required. Also Quality Subcontractors w/Own Equipment. 205-621-2627
December 2015 | 79
OUT & ABOUT Seventh Annual Artist Market
Gingerbread Workshop
Dec. 2
house craft. Three sessions will Nature Story Time: Nature be offered: Dec. 3 at 6 p.m., Story Time at Oak Mountain Dec. 5 at 2:30 p.m. and Dec. State Park will be held at 10 a.m. 7 at 4 p.m. The cost is $5 in Dec. 2. Call Emily at 620-2520 advance or $10 the day of the for more information or email craft. Registration begins Nov. oakmountain.naturalist@dcnr. 2. For more information or to register, call the library at 620alabama.gov. 6465.
Dec. 3
‘Frozen’ Fantasy Fun: Kids 5 years old and older can let it go and come to the Albert L. Scott Library in Alabaster for activities based on the popular movie “Frozen” at 4 p.m. They can come in costume if they desire. Those interested in attending should sign up. Kids 6 and younger must be with an adult.
Dec. 4
Tale for Tots Story Time: The Arc of Shelby County will hold Tale for Tots Story Time from 10-11 a.m. Dec. 4. North Pole Express: The North Pole Express at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum in Calera will take passengers on a journey Dec. 4-6, 11-13 and 18-19. Upon arrival at the North Pole, Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves will board the train to visit with passengers and give each child a keepsake. For more information, go to Hodrrm.org.
10th Annual Diamond Awards: The 10th Annual Diamond Awards Ceremony for the South Shelby Chamber of Commerce will be held Dec. 3 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Columbiana United Methodist Church. RSVP to April Stone at Dec. 5 director@southshelbychamber. Wilsonville Civitan Club com to confirm attendance. Christmas Bazaar: Wilsonville The cost per person will be $15. Civitan Club’s ninth annual Christmas Bazaar will be held Gingerbread Houses: It’s Dec. 5 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. time again to think about the The event is free and will holidays: Santa, snow and include vendors, glitter stamps, gingerbread houses. Pelham a children’s corner for letters Public Library is getting ready to Santa, photos with Santa for its annual gingerbread (and pets), WMU lunch, crafts, 80 | ShelbyLiving.com
‘Frozen’ Fantasy Fun
tasty-looking houses. Families must sign up in advance and pre-pay $3 per house when Helena Christmas Parade: they sign up by Dec. 7. The 45th annual Christmas parade in Helena is scheduled Dec. 10 for Dec. 5 at 1 p.m. The theme is Pete the Cat Book Club: Pete “We’ll Have a Blue Christmas,” the Cat Book Club will meet and the city is planning to at 4 p.m. Dec. 10 at the Albert honor all of the fallen police L. Scott Library in Alabaster. officers. For more information Boys and girls 5 years old and or to download a participant older can join in the fun of cool sheet and announcers’ sheet, cats and reading during the meeting. Sign up for a special visit Cityofhelena.org. holiday edible craft. The group Seventh Annual Artist will meet in the meeting room. Market: The Seventh Annual Children age 6 and younger Artist Market presented by the must be with an adult. Shelby County Arts Council will open Dec. 5 at the SCAC Dec. 11 Shelby Chamber Gallery. The free market will South continue Monday-Thursday, Social Media Seminars: This 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Artists will presentation, Dec. 11 from 8:30be offering their art for sale, 10 a.m., is designed to uncover including pottery, jewelry, some of the core concepts in fabric art, paintings, drawings, marketing for small businesses print-making, photography and organizations. Attendees and more. This year’s market of the presentation The cost is will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. $10 per person. The event will The annual Christmas Tour of be held at Hampton Inn at Homes in Columbiana will also Eagle Point in Birmingham. be happening the same day. jewelry, food and Christmas shopping for the whole family.
Dec. 8
Gingerbread Workshop: A Gingerbread Workshop will be held Dec. 8 at 6:15 p.m. at the Albert L. Scott Library in Alabaster. The workshop leader has everything for making
Dec. 12
Three on a String: Three on a String will blend family friendly music and humor at the Shelby County Arts Council Black Box Theater on Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m. Attendees will hear Big Band, bluegrass, country
OUT & ABOUT Santa Special
From oil changes, alignments, and Alabama inspections to major repairs on your engine and drive train, our technicians will take care of your car, truck or SUV like it was their own.
$25.00 OFF ANY SERVICE OR REPAIR *Must spend over $50. Choose any service available in our dealership. This exclusive offer not valid for insurance work, warranty, over the counter sales, other offers or service specials. Must be redeemed at one visit. Has no cash surrender value. Expires 1/15/16.
and rockabilly in the set list. Tickets are $25.
will greet families and listen to children’s Christmas wishes in the meeting room from 6:15-7 Santa Special: Santa Special p.m. Dec. 15 at the Albert L. at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Scott Library in Alabaster. Museum in Calera will be held All children must be with an Dec. 5, 12 and 19. Take a train adult. ride filled with Christmas Cheer aboard the Santa Dec. 16 and their Special. The vintage train will Children be decorated for the season caregivers are invited to a and will take passengers to see fun-filled morning featuring Santa. Santa will have a treat Santa Claus and Mrs. Santa gingerbread man for every boy and girl. Bring Claus, a camera to get a photo of all decorating in the meeting the sights and make a picture room and a horse-drawn of your family with Santa. The carriage ride around the Santa Special train ride lasts Albert L. Scott Library in about one hour. For more Alabaster on Dec. 16 from 1011:30 a.m. All children must be information, Hodrrm.org. with an adult.
Dec. 13
‘Jingle All the Way:’ Bobby Horton and Dolores Hydock will present “Jingle All the Way” at the Shelby County Arts Council Black Box Theater on Dec. 13. Hydock is an award-winning storyteller, and Horton is a musicologist and guitarist. Together they will reminisce with the audience, entertain and encourage singing along, all in the Christmas spirit. Tickets are $25.
Dec. 15
SERVICE HOURS: MONDAY-FRIDAY 7AM-6PM SATURDAY 8AM-5PM (888) 693-9020
Your gift of just $20
Dec. 19-20
The Nutcracker: Grebel Dance will present “The Nutcracker” at Chelsea High School on Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 20 at 2:30 p.m. “The Nutcracker” is a two-act ballet centered on Clara and a toy nutcracker she receives for Christmas. The ballet features local dancers from Grebel Dance and the Alabama Youth Ballet. Pelham Police Chief Larry Palmer will play “Mother Ginger.” To purchase tickets, visit Grebeldance.
Evening with Santa: Santa com. Claus and Mrs. Santa Claus
will provide food, shelter & support to those that are homeless for the holidays.
Please Give
JimmieHaleMission.com Call (205) 323-5878 Mail PO Box 10472 • Birmingham, AL 35202 December 2015 | 81
WHY I LOVE SHELBY COUNTY
KENDALL WILLIAMS “Diversity, quality schools and collaborative leadership ”
K
endall Williams is the Development and Community Relations Director for the Shelby County Schools Education Foundation, which supports the Shelby County School District. Williams and her husband, R.J., have two young children: Harper, 4, and Miles, 1. Photograph by DANIEL HOLMES How long have you lived in Shelby County? My family moved to Alabama when I was 10 years old. My parents have lived in the same house in Meadowbrook for over 24 years now, but due to Shelby County’s rapid growth, my older brothers went to Pelham High School, I went to Chelsea High School, and my little brother and sister went to Oak Mountain High School. My husband, R.J., and I just moved back to Shelby County with our two children. One of the main reasons we moved is because we wanted our children to go to Shelby County Schools. What do you love about Shelby County? I love how diverse our county is. There are many different cities and each has its own personality, but collectively work together to continue to keep Shelby County the best place to live and raise a family. It is also refreshing to have leadership who work together on all aspects to move our county forward. We love all the parks and festivals too! Describe your job with the Shelby County Schools Education Foundation. As the Development and Community Relations director, I strive to build strong partnerships with our stakeholders. Our mission is to expand the possibilities of educational excellence. Whether we bring in funding, or volunteers, or other 82 | ShelbyLiving.com
resources for teachers and students to succeed, the Education Foundation is the conduit for businesses and community partners to make those connections with our schools. You started your job with the SCSEF almost three years ago. Why did you decide to pursue the opportunity? Growing up I always thought I would be a teacher, but I also believe it takes a true calling to be a great teacher. I did not receive that call. This was an amazing opportunity to work in education and make a difference in children’s lives. What is your favorite SCSEF program or event? Why? My favorite event for the Education Foundation is Taste of Shelby County. Not only because I love food and trying new restaurants; it also provides a unique opportunity to all of our stakeholders from each of our school zones: parents, students, teachers, administrators, businesses, communities, and elected officials to be together in one room. You’re a product of Shelby County Schools. What has surprised or impressed you most about the school system since you graduated? The biggest change I see and experience is the overall shift in instruction. Our teachers in the classroom are not just teaching – they are truly engaged and invested in making sure each student is
learning the material. I have also been very impressed with the commitment to making sure students are prepared for what comes after graduation. What does a typical weekend look like for your family? It depends on the season! We are in the middle of soccer season now, so we spend a lot of time at the field. We also visit many of the local festivals – Mt Laurel Fall Fest is one of our favorites! My husband and I enjoy hiking at Oak Mountain State Park, and having picnics with the kids. There are the typical weekend chores: grocery store and laundry, but we like to stay outside as much as possible. Who are three people, living or dead, you would like to meet and why? John Lennon because he was so talented and thank him for helping inspire our daughter’s middle name – Lennon! Princess Diana because even though she was a princess, she truly believed it was her job to give back and help others. She was so humble in her work and made an impact on countless people. Her children are continuing her work, and I hope I inspire my own children to give back as well. Finally, I would say Jimmy Fallon. I love how he is so comfortable in his own skin. He is by no means the best singer, but he loves to sing and perform whenever he can. I would love to have that confidence. Plus, he just seems to bring FUN wherever he goes. l