alabaster connection november 2014

November 2014

The Official PublicaTiOn Of The ciTy Of alabasTer

INsIde thIs Issue...shop first alabaster pg 8

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CoNNeCtIoNAlAbAster

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It is the season of Thanksgiving! And, we have much to be thankful for in and around our city and county. I am thankful for the privilege to be part of this team, which takes pride in the services provided to our residents and business community every day. I am proud of the way occasional complaints and/or criticisms are received from those they serve (both internal and external), and the process by which improvements are devel-oped and implemented to keep moving forward. During this holiday season, there will be many opportunities to see or expe-rience the benefits of their commitment. Please take a minute to let them know their dedication and service is appreciated.

On October 16th, I was able to attend an Industry Block Party in our Shelby Corporate Park, held at the Armstrong Relocation facility. During this networking event of our industry businesses, I was able to receive a tour of the facility and hear how much more there is to Armstrong Relocation, besides moving services. This nation-wide company has expanded their scope and mission to be able to provide moving, relocation, logistics, and storage services, while still being mindful of how they might help local schools. I want to thank Mr. William Carroll, and all of the Armstrong staff, for sponsoring a great event and being such gracious hosts.

During the months of November and December, we will be accepting applications for the ap-pointment and installation of the 2015 Teen Council. By moving the application and interview process up a couple of months, the new teen council members will be able to receive transition information and guidance from our seasoned inaugural teen leaders. They were able to learn more about municipal government, roles of council/mayor/city manager, and project manage-ment. They overcame many obstacles as the first Teen Council, celebrated great accomplish-ments in the process, developed friendships with people they may have not otherwise had the opportunity to get to know, and are hopeful more teens will be committed to continuing the legacy of teenage contributions to our community. And, I look forward to seeing what those contributions might be. Teenagers, grades 9th through 11th, can find application information on the city’s website, or call city hall at 664-6800.

This is also the time of year we kick it in high gear for our Christmas shopping! We still have many of our local businesses utilizing their FREE micro-website in the “Shop Alabaster First” link available on the city website. This is an awesome opportunity for our local businesses to make the most out of this year’s shopping season. And don’t forget, the APP for smart phones! As people are traveling around and through our city, they may be looking for a specific kind of good or service. This is a place to promote your local business and advertise any seasonal specials. We are continuing our efforts to help promote our local businesses, so please continue to submit nominations for the business spotlight article.

The first thankful celebration of this month is that day we honor our Veterans. May we never take for granted the rights and freedoms we enjoy in this land of plenty made possible by those who fought and sacrificed. Thank you to all of our Veterans, as well as their families, for your service and sacrifice in keeping this nation safe, the land of the free, and home of the brave. As you plan celebrations for this Thanksgiving, please travel safe and be a blessing to someone…

Feeling Thankful and Blessed,

marty handlonMayor, City of Alabaster

From the mayor’s desk... official Publication of the

City of Alabaster

Alabaster Connection is published monthly and it is delivered to

citizens of the City of Alabaster

editorial boardThe Public Relations

Committee of theAlabaster City Council

Committee ChairCouncilwoman Sophie Martin

Councilman Rick WaltersCouncilwoman Stacy Rakestraw

editorLuke Camara,

me2graphics, LLC

contributorsShana CamaraHeather Leavell

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ts scott brakefield, Ward 6

City Council PresidentHard to believe we’ve

completed 10 months of 2014 already, I firmly believe time is speeding up. With Thanks-giving and Veterans Day this month, it’ll be Christmas before we know it and then another new year. I hope you will join me in slowing down this season to reflect on all that we have to be thankful for. The City ended the last fiscal year with sales/use tax up over 2.5% from same period in 2013 and more new home starts

than in last five years. With your continued commitment to shop Alabaster first, we will continue to be able to invest in our com-munity via improved infrastructure, education and general quality of life. Thank you for helping make Alabaster a top destination for people and businesses to locate and call home. We are working on multiple economic development and infrastructure proj-ects: Extending Fulton Springs to US 31, Fixing Alabaster Blvd, Intersection at County Rd 80 and Highway 119 and widening Highway 119 from Fulton Springs to County Road 80. We also have multiple retail opportunities are on the horizon. We are able to do this by having a great team, conservative fiscal stewardship and a supportive community. Happy Thanksgiving!

sophie martin, Ward 1Progress continues in Ward 1. A temporary patch was recent-

ly placed at the most severe dip on Alabaster Boulevard. The key word here is “temporary”. This will help with safety during the next steps of the repair process. To remediate and move forward in repairing the failing areas along Alabaster Boulevard, the City Council recently appoved an agreement with Dynamic Civil Solutions, an engineering firm who will oversee and bid out the project. This will ensure that all repairs are done efficiently and within all required codes. Over the next several months, please use caution when traveling Alabaster Boulevard since parts of the road will be closed for prep and repair.

Thank you to ACS Super-intendent Dr. Vickers, the administration and the Ala-baster Board of Education for their continued commitment and hard work. It’s exciting to see so many enhance-ments including the updated stadium and the planned technology upgrade in all of our schools.

Alabaster residents also continue to benefit from the

continued increase in our property value. The best is yet to come and with what is already happening - I believe it!

Thanksgiving is a time for us to be grateful. It’s also a time to be a blessing to others - so please reach out to someone in need. There are many people right here in our community in need of help.

Please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or at 358-8742.

Blessings,Sophie

bob hicks, Ward 2And so we hit the home stretch for 2014. As we enter the holiday season

with thanksgiving (get it?), it occurs to me that we have so much for which we should be thankful. We have a loving God who blesses us all daily, and my prayer is that we are not too busy to recognize and accept these blessings. We have a city in which to live that is improving constantly. It is

growing at a measured rate and watched over by a group of municipal employees whose dedication and focus material-izes everywhere you look: a policeman taking time out of a long, tiring day to throw a football back and forth with a child in order to continue build-ing bridges between our public safety teams and those they serve; firemen facing heat, rain, and tired legs to “fill the boot;” public works team members going out of their way to maintain the beauty and functionality of our city streets; Parks and Rec folks who work long hours to provide family enter-

tainment at the most reasonable cost; and the list goes on and on. I am thankful for each and every person who spends his or her days making Alabaster better and better.

There is one way that ALL of us can help to make our city continue to improve. I am referring to a SAFE holiday season. Of course safety is a big concern on everyone’s mind, but in this case, SAFE is an acronym that means Shop Alabaster First Everyone!!!!!! If we all do our holiday shop-ping within the city limits, all the sales tax revenues, such a vital part of our budget, generated in the next two months will help Alabaster in so many ways, not to mention our school system. Please take the time to explore options around town for your holiday shopping, and we will all win. Let’s have a SAFE holiday season!! Grace and peace, Bob

stacy rakestraw, Ward 3

From the success of the Alabaster Senior Center, it is clear our senior resi-dents love the fellowship and fun that it offers. Thank you to Alicia Walters, Rosia Dowdell, Betty Elder, Melissa Moultrie, and Thelma Woodruff who all do such a fantastic job planning

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and coordinating events, outings, and activities for the Alabaster Senior Center. You all are truly a blessing and such a positive asset to our city and residents.

Recently, I spoke to Kevin Hodges, the Vice President of Senior Services with St. Bernard’s Hospital, in my hometown of Jonesboro, AR. They have a wonderful place called St. Bernard’s Village (and soon to open, Villa). It is a beautiful, high-end development for seniors who need different levels of assisted care. This type of community would be such a benefit to our city. A development company came to Alabaster in September and recently finished a feasibility study for this area, and there were very positive results. Assisted Living is a special combination of housing, personalized support-ive services, and health care designed to respond to the individual needs of those who need help with the activities of daily living but do not need the skilled medical care provided in a nursing home. Our senior citizens, and their families, should have a local choice for assisted living care when they have reached this stage of life. Many families who live in Alabaster have aging parents and have no choice except to have them live in their home or to move them to another city for this type of care.

Election Day is November 4! Don’t forget your picture ID, as it is a new law for our state.

Veterans Day is also this month. I want to thank my dad and husband for serving our country, as well as, the many other men and women who have chosen to protect our country and continually fight for our freedom.

Happy Thanksgiving! The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him... Psalm 28:7

Rick Walters, Ward 4Happy Thanksgiving! In addition to family, friends, and country, I

am thankful for our awesome city. Our new high school is closer than ever to becoming a reality, and the sense of community that comes from our school system is strong and tangible. Until the new building is built we will work on traffic (Hwy 119 - CR80) signalization and educational resources like the AL Scott Library. The exterior has been cleaned and weatherproofed. Inside they continue to add new titles, audio books, videos, and music. They also have new computers with 21 inch screens

and have updated the internet access for smoking fast web surfing. Of course we have a top notch staff (Judith, Carol, and Frances) to help you find what you are looking for. As the holiday season approaches, you can also find everything on your gift list right here in Alabaster. Remember that shopping locally supports city services, and many of our small business owners depend on the season to be able to keep their doors open year round.

I am also thankful for the opportu-nity to serve you and for the brave men and women who serve to keep our

country free. Please remember them in your prayers and Keep in Touch!

Russell Bedsole, Ward 5Greetings again. I hope this latest edition of the Alabaster Connection

finds you well. Can you believe we are staring down the holiday season? A few of you have gotten an early start on your Christmas shopping, but many more of us will be checking off our gift giving list over the next several weeks.

With holiday shopping in mind, I would like to challenge everyone to complete your shopping 100% in Alabaster. With all the fine retail and specialty boutiques in our city, there is very little reason to shop anywhere else. Spending your money at Alabaster businesses is not only an investment in their business, but it’s also an investment in our city.

Before I go, I would like to offer a word on a topic that has personally affected my family. November is National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness month. Despite the diligent work of many brilliant people, this horrible disease remains incredibly deadly. With continued support and research efforts, I am hopeful we can see the odds change for those afflicted with pancreatic cancer. The color purple has been designated the symbolic color of the fight to end pancreatic can-cer. Be looking for purple reminders around our city as Mayor Handlon and some of our local businesses have been gracious enough to support the fight.

Tommy Ryals, Ward 7

You may have read that recently the Council approved funding for an update to our Comprehensive Plan for the City. Comprehensive Planning is an attempt to establish guidelines for the future growth of a community and should reflect what a community wishes to be in the future. Alabaster has traditionally had a Comprehensive Plan, but the current version is about 10

years old and needs to be updated. When we get the Plan like we want it, it is adopted by the Council and should serve as a policy guide with which to make decisions about community development. Land use patterns, population, roadways, and other infrastructure issues are usually studied. Information such as current demographics and current road conditions are part of the Plan. It will include “overlays” meant to ensure certain areas are developed according to plan, like a “city center” overlay. An important part of the process is to obtain community input. When we advertise pub-lic meetings, I hope you will feel free to attend and express your opinions. When the Plan is finished, it won’t mean we can accomplish the entire Plan in short order, but it will be a plan the City (and developers) should follow as we grow.


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Turning off the car engine in front of the Alabas-ter Senior Center, one can hear the sounds of Elvis echoing off the buildings, calling for your atten-tion. After scanning the parking lot for the source, there is a glimpse of a lovely couple slow dancing in the parking lot, and the joy in her smile prompts a smile of your own. All this and it’s not even 8 o’clock in the morning yet.

“That couple was made here. She had lost her husband, and I’m not sure of the whereabouts of his previous wife, but they started hanging out play-ing cards and then formed a relationship,” shared Alicia Walters, Parks and Recreation Senior Adults/Therapeutic Manager. “Oftentimes our seniors don’t want to remarry but want the companionship, and one of my goals is to provide an environment that connects people with similar interests so that they’ll do things outside of here.”

Connecting people and building friendships are only a component of what happens at the Alabas-ter Senior Center. With over 900 senior members in the database, the center strives to increase the seniors’ quality of life and create a home away from home – and just a fun atmosphere.

“They are energetic and vibrant and want to do all the things that everybody else wants to do,” con-tinued Walters with a warm smile. “Sometimes the community thinks that seniors just want to sit and be very passive - which is so not true! They want to

be active, and get out in the community.”The Senior Center offers a variety of traditional and

non-traditional activities for its members. Because it serves a variety of personalities and interests, offering a game of Bingo or Dominoes may not be enough for some seniors. “The challenge is to provide as many services as we can, to

as many seniors as we can,” she shared. “We know that the need is a lot greater than we can serve and that there are some that we don’t serve.”

With a motivated staff and the supportive City of Alabas-ter, the allowance of growth and service offerings inspires the ones working to serve the seniors that much more.

“We are going on a 3-day Biltmore trip in December, and this will be our first large trip,” shared Walters excitedly.

AlAbAster seNIor CeNterCoNNeCtINg PeoPle

Alabaster’s Seniors are always up for a game.

“Connecting people and building friendships are only a component of what happens at the Alabaster senior Center.”

“We are taking 47 seniors with us, and we filled that trip in two weeks!”

The seniors have the opportunity to embark upon month-ly outings – meals at Cracker Barrel, a trip to the Atlanta History Center, and so forth. They have been on overnight trips with the Center in the past year, but taking a trip to North Carolina for two nights and three days of touring the Biltmore Estate is a big step!

“We want to provide as many different activities for the different seniors that come and meet a lot of different needs,” she continued. “They have a good time while they’re here, and it gives them a purpose to do things outside of here as well.”

There are times that the seniors don’t have families close or have lost a spouse or significant other. The Center pro-vides an outlet where seniors can meet new people, par-ticipate in activities that they may have never heard of, and learn something new about themselves in the process.

“It’s the little things,” Walters shared of the moving events that take place at the center. “The first time somebody takes an art class and realizes they’re 75-years-old and learning how to paint with acrylics, it goes so much beyond pure recreation– the family and the camaraderies that brings everybody together is endless.”

Seniors can give in to their competitive edge by travelling with the Wii Bowling group, sing the timeless classics with the travelling singing group, or join in the creative move-ment with Ageless Adventures.

“We’re trying to encourage socialization and interaction. And we’re keeping them healthy,” she added. “I often say that I hope when I retire I’ll have somewhere to go and play and have a good time.”

The center provides approximately 45 meals a day to those who qualify. There are volunteers who even transport some of the meals out into the community to those that are home-bound. And sometimes the volunteers go a little further to care for the seniors. “Last year, one of my co-workers and I, our families provided a Thanksgiving lunch on Thanksgiving Day for the seniors that had nowhere to

go,” shared Walters about the rewarding event. “That was a really amazing event, and we will do that again this year at Thanksgiving.”

With a plethora of activities to keep seniors motivated, happy, and healthy, the Center strives to step outside of the box. Moving beyond the sit-and-stare mentality, the Center is giving seniors an opportunity to revisit their passions and create new hobbies while building life-enhancing compan-ionships.

For more information on the Senior Center, call (205)663-1307.

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s shop First AlabasterThe holidays are quickly approaching. People

are making their shopping lists and checking them twice. They are shopping far and wide for the best deals to fit the budget. Instead of driving all over the state looking for the low prices that you will pay back in gas, car maintenance, and frustration, check out the shops in the Alabaster community.

“The people draw the business. We have a great community and a safe community,” shared Cam Ward about the Shop First Alabaster initiative. “We have shopping needs and dining needs right here in the community, so it is a perfect balance.”

As the hustle and bustle of the season progress-es, shoppers will find their way to the blooming City of Alabaster, making this city that much more appealing to new businesses itching to move in. The campaign for Shop First Alabaster supports our existing businesses.

“Anyone looking to come and open a new busi-ness in our city is going to be much more motivat-ed in coming here when they see how we take care of our existing businesses,” continued Ward.

With new retail shops and eateries moving into town, townsfolk have seen a progressive boost in the economy. “We’ve nearly doubled the city bud-get over the last 10 years and it’s almost due exclu-sively to the coming of the new shopping center,” added Ward. “Impact is enormous – it goes back into city services.”

From the specialty shops in quiet communities to the big name businesses, the whole community is very supportive of the businesses in town. With the Shop First Initiative, we have online access where businesses can offer exclusive coupons and specialty items.

“Often times, there’s a conversation about the big retailers in the community, but the small retailers get overlooked,” concluded Ward. “They are a very important part of our economy as well.”SANCTUARY

Darrel Holcombe, owner and operator of Sanc-tuary Christian Books and Gifts, moved to this blossoming town just three years ago. Holcombe saw the potential of having a book store in the city of Alabaster, and when everything fell into place, Sanctuary got a new, easily accessible home.

During the holiday season, everyone benefits from being in this city. Businesses are stockpiled with merchandise and shoppers search high low for that perfect something. Sanctuary is a place that you can be reeled back into perspective.

“Christmas is a time where it’s easy to become distracted from the core message of what Christ-

mas is about. That happens to me just as everyone else. There is just so much going on,” said Holcombe. “So most of what we have to sell, being Christ-centered, allows people to reorient back to what the season is about.”

Holcombe hopes that the ministry of the Christian bookstore can act as a beacon to shoppers during this of-ten hectic time. This bookstore represents a period of time and space to which people can come and feel ministered.

“It’s the small, day-to-day things that can make a dif-ference in people’s lives,” Holcombe continued softly. “We even have people that come in just to walk around and lis-

“It’s the small, day-to-day things that can make a difference in people’s lives.”

darrel holcombe, owner sanctuary Christian books and gifts

Alabaster’s own Sanctuary offers many of great gifts for anyone on your list.

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ten to the music and take a break from the day. They may not buy anything, but they will express their appreciation for creating an atmosphere like this.”

He mentioned the hope behind the choice of the store’s name to reflect reality. That it really would be a sanctuary for people from the tough or tedious daily tasks.

For Sanctuary, the holidays do bring in triple the amount of business. The sale of Bibles, music, books, and a variety of merchandise triple in demand.

“When someone gets a Bible for Christmas, I think that’s an appropriate gift,” he continued with a smile. “The message we have to share in our books and our Christmas cards are very Christ-centered. I’m not dissing Happy Holiday medium; I just think that having something that is relevant to the season is important.”

As the hectic holiday atmosphere approaches, Shop First Alabaster.

What is medicare?You see the commercials during the short breaks of your

favorite TV shows and your mailbox is probably filled with invitations for the Medicare program, but there’s a good chance that you have no idea what it is.

“Medicare is a health insurance program for people ages 65 or older, people under 65 with certain disabilities, and people of any age with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD),” began Karen Haiflich (pronounced Hay-Flick), RHU.

On Wednesday, November 12th at 1 p.m., Haiflich will host an educational program about the A, B, C, D’s of Medicare – a federal health insurance program designed to assist with medical costs – at the Albert L. Scott Library. She will expound on the benefits and plans that are meant to help patients.

“I will help clear up confusion about Medicare and their options,” she continued.

By hosting this educational program, she will have the opportunity to speak with people who have heard about Medicare, but still are not quite sure of what it is. Further-more, she will have the opportunity to speak with people who are already involved but are looking for a better un-derstanding of how the program works.

“Medicare Part A covers in-hospital stays, skilled nurs-ing hospice, and some home health care,” she began. “Most people don’t pay a premium for Part A because they or their spouse paid for Medicare while working in the U.S.” Generally speaking, Part A covers hospital services such as overnight stays – meals, hospital rooms, and nursing services.

“Medicare Part B is the medical insurance. It helps cover doctors and other health care providers, outpatient care, durable medical equipment, some home health care, and some preventive services,” Haiflich continued. “Most people pay the standard monthly premium of $104.90 per month, which people will be happy to know is remaining

the same through 2016.” Part B covers other medical care like physician and ambulance services, laboratory tests, physical therapy, or rehabilitation.

“Medicare Part C is also known as the Medicare Advan-tage Plan. These are health plans run by Medicare ap-proved private insurance companies,” she said.

“Medicare Part D is the Medicare prescription drug cov-erages. It helps with outpatient prescription drugs. These plans are only available by Medicare approved private insurance company.”

Costs and benefits vary by plan, and knowing what plan is right for you can make the difference when it comes to financial support.

“People pay money that they otherwise wouldn’t have to

medICAre A, b, C, d’sWednesday, november 12th, 1:00 p.m.albert l. scott libraryKaren Haiflich will host an educational program about the A, B, C, D’s of Medicare – a federal health insurance program designed to assist with medical costs. Contact the library for program details.


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s because they were misinformed about the plans,” concluded Haiflich. “I just want people to know the pros and the cons of all of their options.”

For more information on Medicare visit: www.Medicare.org. Contact the library for program details.

big brothers big sisters“Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Birmingham

has been around for about 44 years now,” stated Mike Vest, President of the Advisory Council for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby County and Shelby County Commissioner District 6. “Big Brothers Big Sisters officially came to Shelby County last year, and we are starting a school-based program at Vincent Elementary and Monte-vallo Elementary.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters is a volunteer mentoring network for adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children ages 6-18 (“Littles”) across the country. Designed to provide one-on-one support, the relationships that are formed by the sisters and brothers have positive, lifelong impacts.

“My brother had dropped out of school in the Western part of Birmingham where we grew up. He was 16-years-old – five years older than me – messing around with the wrong crowd,” shared Vest of his own personal story. “My mom said, ‘I don’t want you messing around with those guys.’ She heard about this BBBS organization so she signed me up to have a big brother, and in 1979 I became involved with the organization and re-ceived a big brother named Mark Griffin.”

The impact that Mark Griffin and his family made on Vest changed his life forever. Vest named his 12-year-old son Griffin Vest after the Griffin family as a token of gratitude to the difference they had made in his life.

“In 2004 Big Brothers Big Sisters celebrated its 100th Anniversary across America and wrote a book of the top 100 matches over that 100 year period. My brother Mark and I were in that book,” said Vest appreciatively. “We were excited to be a part of that. I can’t thank my big brother enough for changing my life and leading me the right way.”

Vest was considered an at-risk youth simply be-cause he lived in Ensley and Midfield. There may be some who think that there is no need for Big Brothers Big Sisters in Shelby County, but it does not matter what background you come from, there is always a need for a mentor.

“I always tell folks that if you’re going to be a big brother or a big sister then you’d better be com-

Mayor Handlon surrounded by a few of the graduates of Big Brothers Big Sisters.

mitted 100 percent,” said Vest as he shared his own pet peeve. “The kid has already been left once. So if you’re go-ing to sign-up and you say that you want to help out, don’t drop off the face of the earth and never let that kid hear from you again.”

Becoming a Big is a rewarding responsibility, but that does not mean it is not met with its challenges. There are cases where the Little’s home life is not the best of situa-tions and the Big questions the situation they put them-selves in, but the best part is that the Big is changing a life forever.

“There’s always a kid in need. Everybody needs a men-

tor. Pat a kid on the back and he’ll die for you. Get on them all the time, they’ll shut down,” Vest shared. “Tell a kid that he can do something, that’s all they need to hear. That’s all I needed to hear.”

The BBBS of Shelby County office is located at the De-pot in Alabaster.

“there’s always a kid in need. everybody needs a mentor.”

-mike vestPresident of the Advisory Council for

big brothers big sisters of shelby County

Fall FlingLast month, the Alabaster Parks and Recreation Depart-

ment hosted its 8th Annual Fall Fling at Veterans Park. With approximately 150 students with mental and/or physical disabilities from the Alabaster City Schools and Shelby County schools, the day was filled with fun in the sun.

“I worked with some of the teachers to invite the kids to come to the program,” shared Alicia Walters, Parks and Recreation Senior Adults/Therapeutic Manager. “From about 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. there were inflatables, face paintings, opportunities to fish, craft stations, games, and music. Kona Ice donated a scoop of an icy to each child that at-tends the park that day.”

Walters worked a number of years with children with mental disabilities and was excited to come on board with the project. “I actually came over, maybe their second year, to just observe and, even then, it had just been a great event,” she said with a smile. “With the great com-munity support, the kids have a great time and the teach-ers love it! It gives them a chance to get out of the schools and into more of an outdoor recreation setting.”

The volunteers, teachers, and aids got to work with the elementary and intermediate aged students with fun, out-door events. Whether the student was blowing enormous bubbles or doing the Hokey Pokey, the event utilized the speech therapists, occupational therapists, and school sup-

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port staff – they know the kids and their abilities.“For some students, they get to experience fishing, and

that’s something that they may not get to experience on their own,” she added cheerfully. “They love music and crafts – something they can take home with them. It’s something to be proud of, and you just never know what they’re introduced to.”

The event tried to provide a little extra fun for the stu-dents in a different environment and Parks and Rec are appreciative of the volunteers and sponsors for making the day great for the students.

Happy participants at Alabaster’s Annual Fall Fling.

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s Alabaster vision mileThe weather is chilly. Your foot is on the starting

line. You can already hear the whole town cheer-ing for you. Your friends are ready to run with you. This mile will be epic.

Thirty minutes before the Alabaster Christmas Parade, the Alabaster Lions Club will host a run to support vision health – the Alabaster Vision Mile. Taking the same scenic route as the parade, chil-dren 18 and under will get to run in front of family,

friends, and neighbors.“We chose the same day as the parade because of

visibility and excitement for the kids – grandparents and school mates will be there. What 6-year-old won’t want to run for mom and dad?” shared Steve Crainich, Membership Coordinator of the Alabas-ter Lions Club. “Hopefully it gives other kids an incentive to want to do it next year, simply because it looks fun.”

The Alabaster Lions Club – part of the largest community organization in the world – has hosted 11 years of runs, with the last run event in 2013. With this 12th year, the organization hopes to es-tablish the Vision Mile as the de facto state champi-onship.

“I’m extremely excited about it. I hope it gives a lot more kids the desire to run,” added Crainich. “Most sports stop after high school, but running can be life-long.”

Between the months of January and April, there are varieties of 5K runs happening within 50 miles

of Birmingham. The Vision Mile is a way to build excite-ment in youth about health, fundraise for vision health – provisions for eye surgeries, glasses, and screenings – as well as positively impact the Alabaster economy.

“Hopefully a bump of tourism will come to the city of Alabaster,” continued Crainich as he shared the economic impact of a recent event in a different city. “When you do it right and have a good team like the City of Alabaster back-ing you, it can be a real boost for the local businesses.”

For now, the race is open only to children, for event size control. Crainich also mentioned that mingling 6-year-olds with college students can be intimidating to the younger students, potentially causing the youth to not enjoy the run as they should.

Lions Club International focuses on vision health, sup-porting youth, disaster relief, and other humanitarian needs. The local club portrays this by funding local vision screenings at the schools, sponsoring people who need vi-sion assistance, and assisting in the community in any way that it can.

For more information, visit wwww.facebook.com/Alabas-terLionsClub or go to Active.com to register.

“When you do it right and have a good team like the City of Alabaster backing you, it can be a real boost for the local businesses.”

-steve Crainichmembership Coordinator of the

Alabaster lions Club

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s best of the best in shelby County

Being declared the Best of the Best in Shelby County is an honor awarded by the fans through a competition held by Shelby Living Magazine. There are a variety of awards including food, banking, and medical care.

Chubb’s“The people have spoken, and we’ve been

crowned Best of the Best Burger in Shelby County,” started Will Cholewinski, owner of Chubb’s Grub Station in Alabaster. “It was a valiant effort by my team – making all of those cheese burgers, feed-ing all of those people.” Competing with burgers around the county, the community has chosen to honor Chubb’s with the award for the best burger.

“I’m humbled. I’m grateful. I’m very blessed,” added Cholewinski. “I’m proud to be a Chubb for Life.”

Building on the 2014 successes, Cholewinski just signed the lease for a second Chubb’s Grub Station location in Chelsea with the expectations of open-ing at the beginning of December.

“If the Feed the People Initiative has raised closer to 6,000 meals now since last October, then I imag-ine that in another year’s time, with the addition of the Chelsea location, that number will grow,” added the visionary. “If we can start getting 10 – 15,000 people fed, a year, through two stores, then it’s a chip away from the problem.”

Cholewinski has no time to waste, for the need to feed is so great.

“I’m not one to sit back. We’ve got lots of people

“ In five years we might be feeding half a million people a year, and that’s what it’s all about.”

-Will Cholewinskiowner of Chubb’s grub station

to feed,” added Choelwinski. “In five years we might be feeding half a million people a year, and that’s what it’s all about.”

He added how appreciative he was to have the supportive community. It was more than just winning an award to him and his family. “Thank you all for your continued support,” he concluded. “It’s a blessing to me and my family, and if there is ever anything that I can do, holla at cha boy.”

205-223-2333www.birminghamtreeguy.com

Ribbon cutting at Chubb’s Grub Station.

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Alabaster CityFest“To be chosen to be the Best of the Best – just to be

nominated – is great validation for our volunteers,” said Adam Moseley. “I think it’s just a testament of all of our volunteers and their hard work. It’s a validation for us that the City of Alabaster is doing something right.”

The Alabaster CityFest was nominated for the third year in a row as the Best of the Best Annual Event. “CityFest has always been a great event and it has spread beyond its borders,” added Moseley. “It’s just a great day of entertain-

ment and family fun.”The community atmosphere of the Alabaster CityFest is

one of the things that makes the event great. Live music from well-known and local artists combined with a plethora of vendors, play areas for children, and a social vibe mo-tivated the community to award this festival as Best of the Best.

“We are always looking at what we can do better; what brings people back every time; what we can do to enhance the festival,” Moseley continued. “The Alabaster Arts Coun-cil – the organization that hosts the festival – is made of all volunteers and it’s amazing that they give their time all year to make it happen.”

Preparations and plans for next year’s event are already in motion. With a key focus on logistics, the Arts Council will keep the direction that Alabaster CityFest is going. If it’s not broke, don’t fix it – it’s working.

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November4 Water board, 7 p.m.5 court Trials, 9 a.m.10 alabaster city school board, 2 p.m. 10 council, 7 p.m. 12 court Plea Dockets, 9 a.m. & 2 p.m.18 housing and abatement, 5 p.m. Municipal Annex19 court Plea Dockets, 9 a.m. & 2 p.m.24 board of Zoning adjustments, 6:30 p.m. 24 council, 7 p.m. 25 Planning and Zoning, 7 p.m. Municipal Annex

ALL MEETINGS ARE HELD AT 1953 MUNICIPAL WAY IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER View full calendar, agendas and resolutions at www.cityofalabaster.com

reCyClINg ColleCtIoN sChedulered -November 2nd-8th, 16th-22nd , 30th

blue - November 1st, 9th-15th, 23rd-29th

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

Closed November 11 • Veterans Day

Closed November 27-28 • Thanksgiving

ZeNtANgle INsPIred ChrIstmAs ClAssMonday, november 3, 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Want a tree with a little extra DAZZLE this holiday season? Join the ZENTANGLE crowd at the center to make dazzling ZIA ornaments and ornament toppers. These pieces of hand crafted art will make fabulous personal gifts for your friends and family - or a gift to yourself! Don’t miss it; let’s TANGLE! You must have taken the beginner Zentangle class prior to this class. Cost is $15/person. All supplies included.

drummINg ProgrAmTuesday, november 4, 10:00 a.m. No experience necessary; the benefits are endless. The benefits of drumming: improve your mood, increase circulation, improve focus, offer low impact exercise and creativity. No charge for this program.

“hoNorINg our veterANs” Wednesday, november 5, 9:30 a.m. Karla Stamps will be presenting a program celebrating the ser-vice of our U.S. Military Veterans. The program is filled with photographs and stories of the lives of the men and women who have served our country, and it includes interesting stories about the memorials, schools, uniforms, animals, parades, and rich history that surround our country’s military traditions. Call to reserve your spot.

luNCh ANd shoPPINg IN homeWoodfriday, november 7Enjoy walking the downtown Homewood area. Eat lunch and shop on your own. Space is limited. $1 to reserve your spot. Bring $12-15 for lunch.

louIe’s PICkle ANd shoPPINgWednesday, november 12 We will travel to Odenville to Louie’s Pickle Deli for lunch and stop by the outlets in Leeds for a little Christmas shopping. Cost is $1 to reserve your spot. Bring $10-12 for lunch.

book ClubMonday, november 24, 10:00 a.m. We will meet every 4th Monday to discuss the book and intro-duce a new book. Sign up at the Senior Center.

NeW Ageless AdveNtures IN movemeNtIn Ageless Adventures in Movement we use movement as a language to explore or express an idea. Let’s explore some issues of aging as we learn the basics of creative movement. We’ll learn to use the Elements of Dance to tell our stories, and explore the concept of the relationship between dance and the well-being of mind, body and spirit. No prior dance experience is necessary. We’ll build our dance vocabulary as we go! This is an ongoing class. $2/class.

ZumbA goldWednesday, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Relatively high intensity, low-impact fitness class featuring Latin and World rhythms and the same party favor as regular Zumba. It’s a great cardio workout that is fun! Cost is $2/class. (Note: Zumba Gold from 2:15 p.m.-3:00 p.m. will not be offered at this time)

lINe dANCINgThursdays 9:30 a.m. intermediate class Thursdays 10:30 a.m. beginner class. No experience necessary. Cost is $2 per class.you WoN’t WANt to mIss All the otherACtIvItIes At the seNIor CeNter...Timeless Treasures (singing),–Mondays, 10 a.m.head to Toe fitness, Mondays, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Mat stretch class, Mondays, 2:15 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.rook, Wednesdays, 9:00 a.m.

arthritis foundation exercise, Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m.Zumba Gold i (exercise) Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m.beginner/inter line dancing, Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.beginner line Dancing, Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. bridge, Thursdays, 12:00 p.m. -3:00 p.m.ageless adventures in Movement, Thursdays, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Tempo exercise, Fridays, 10:00 a.m.

lIbrAryThe Albert L. Scott Library is located at 100 9th Street N.W., Alabaster. Hours of operation are:

Monday, Tuesday and Thursday - 9 a.m.-7:50 p.m. Wednesday - 10 a.m.-5:50 p.m. Friday - 9 a.m.-5:50 p.m. Saturday - 10 a.m.-4:50 p.m. Sunday - 1-4:50 p.m.

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



FrIeNds oF the Albert l. sCott lIbrAryThe Fall Book and Bake Sale was very successful thanks to all of you who shopped with us and the hard working volunteers. Now we are anticipating your donations! Looking for a good home for those books you no longer need? We accept donated books to be sold at the semi-annual Book Sales, Book Room, and Book Nook. Bring fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, cookbooks, DVDs, VHS, CDs, and books on CD to the Library desk. We cannot accept textbooks, reference books, or maga-zines. Be a Friend! Applications are available at the Library or at www.cityofalabaster.com.

WhAt’s thAt buttoN do?: gettINg the most out oF your dIgItAl CAmerA november 1, 10:30 a.m. Whether one is trying to take pictures to display on a web site, frame and hang as fine art, or just capture family or vacation memories, today’s digital cameras - Digital Compact or Digital SLR - are packed with capabilities and features that greatly en-hance and extend the user’s ability to capture and create images that fill a wide range of needs.The class will consist of one 3 hour session covering:

Camera types and their advantages and disadvantagesCamera standard operational modesSpecial features and effects

This class is designed for those who have just gotten their first digital camera or for those who have had one for a while but never really felt comfortable shooting in any mode other than

full auto - point and shoot. Class size is very limited. Students should bring their cameras and camera manuals. Call or come by the Albert L. Scott Library to sign up. 205-664-6822.

lIFe south blood drIvenovember 3, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Do something amazing. Save a life today. Please give blood. Program will take place in the Meeting Room.

mAsterPIeCe book Clubnovember 7, 2:00 p.m.Join us as we explore the classics of literature. We will discuss The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner. The Sound and the Fury is the tragedy of the Compson family, featuring some of the most memorable characters in literature: beauti-ful, rebellious Caddy; the man-child Benjy; haunted, neu-rotic Quentin; Jason, the brutal cynic; and Dilsey, their black servant. Their lives are fragmented and harrowed by history and legacy, the characters’ voices and actions mesh to create what is arguably Faulkner’s masterpiece and one of the greatest novels of the twentieth century.

AbC & d’s oF medICAre november 12, 1:00 p.m. Karen Haiflich, of the Medicare Information Source, will help you navigate through the process of Medicare. Learn about filing and benefits, and get answers to any other questions you might have. For more information, contact the library at 205-664-6822.

WomeN’s selF deFeNse ClAss november 15, 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. anD november 16, 1 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. This FREE 2 day (9 hours) Rape Aggression Defense Class (R.A.D.) will be taught by 2 certified R.A.D. officers from the Alabaster Police Department. This class if for those who are ages 13 and above. Any participants under the age of 18 years old must have a parent sign a release form. Registration is required for this program. To register, or for more informa-tion, please call the Albert L. Scott Library at 205-664-6822. Program will take place in the Meeting Room.

lIbrAry book grouPThursday, november 20, 7:00 p.m.Join us in our discussion of Heart & Soul by Maeve Binchy. A story of family, friends, patients, and staff who are part of a heart clinic in a community caught between the old and the new Ireland. Program takes place in the Meeting Room.

Adult ComPuter ClAsses Call or come by to sign up. 664-6822.

november 5, 10 a.m. Basic Internet & Email november 12, 10 a.m. Microsoft Word 2007 Pt. 1


Job seArCh WorkshoPsJoin us as local expert Fabray Turner leads the follow-ing workshops:

november 3, 6:30 p.m. Job Searching Today november 10, 6:30 p.m.Resume Writing Todaynovember 17, 6:30 p.m. Interviewing Today

youth eveNts

outreACh story tImeWednesdays 10:15 a.m. At area day care centers.

tuNes & tAles Wednesdays 3:30 p.m. Tunes & Tales Musical stories is fun for all ages. Chil-dren six years old and younger must be with an adult. Meeting Room

toddler tAles fridays 10:30 a.m. Toddler Tales for toddlers and caregivers. Children must be with an adult. Meeting Room

mIss JeNNIe’s story tIme themes: Thank You, VeteransAutumn LeavesGranma’s Favorite StoriesThanksgiving Joy

FAmIly holIdAy mANNers mAsh uP november 18, 6:15 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Get ready for the holidays with etiquette expert, Ka-thie Martin, of the Etiquette School of Birmingham. This is for the whole family to learn by enjoying a simple meal before the holidays. Find out: American dining style vs. Continental dining style, what is ac-ceptable to eat with your hands, appropriate conversa-tion at the table, and more! Families must sign up in advance – space is limited. Children should be able to quietly listen. Meets in the Meeting Room.

Pete the CAt book Club november 20, 4:00 p.m. Boys and girls 5 years old and older can join in the fun of cool cats, reading, and more during our meeting. Please sign up. Meets in the Meeting Room. Children age 6 and younger must be with an adult.

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november 21, 4:00 p.m. Girls who are 7 years old and older can sign up to show off what they can do at a talent show. Girls performing need to prepare to go no longer than 2 minutes. Come show your tal-ent: singing, dancing, twirling a baton, or playing an instru-ment; show a few photos or pieces of art work, or tell a few jokes. Girls can also be in the audience and not perform. Come with or without a doll. Parents can be in the audience, and siblings in the audience must be with an adult. Program is in the Meeting Room.

legos november 25, 4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Kids of all ages are thankful for Legos of all sizes. Come for free play and make new buddies in the Meeting Room. Kids age 6 years old and younger must be with an adult.

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

PArks ANd reCThe Parks and Recreation Office is located inside the Depot at 100 Depot Street, Alabaster. Office hours are Mon.-Fri. from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. If you would like more information, call 205-664-6840 or visit www.alabasterparks.org.



ChrIstmAs PArAdesaturday, December 6, 10 a.m.The annual Christmas Parade will be held on Saturday, De-cember. 6 at 10 a.m. on Highway 31 South. Anyone wishing to participate in the parade will need to register online, or return a completed registration form to the Parks and Recreation of-fice between October 13 and November 14. The form will be on our web site. There is no fee to participate. All participants are strongly encouraged to decorate, even if their entry is not a “float.”

bAsketbAllYouth Basketball practice will begin the first week of Novem-ber. Games are scheduled to begin after Thanksgiving, break for the Christmas holidays, and then resume play after the first of the year. Pictures are scheduled for December 13th. Loca-tion TBA.

aDulT eVenTs cOnTinueD...

soCCerOur Fall Soccer season is about to conclude, with 43 teams having participated. We would like to say “Thank You” to all of the volunteer coaches and team moms for your dedication and time spent working with the players. Please watch for future postings of Spring Soccer registration which will occur in early January.

FootbAll ANd CheerWe had another successful year with 186 football players and 167 cheerleaders. We will have several teams in the playoffs, and we hope to bring home a championship. Berry High School will be hosting the JSYFL Championship games on November 22. The games will begin at 9 a.m. and run all day. Please come out and support our teams.

FlAg FootbAllFlag Football, which was offered for the first time through the City, had 49 participants. We interlocked with Helena and the YMCAs of Alabaster and Pelham. We will be hosting our first Flag Football Championship Day on November 1 at Buck Creek starting at 9:00 a.m.

FAll bAsebAllFall Baseball had 140 participants at the conclusion of the program at the end of October. We would like to say “Thank

You” to Coach Hamrick and his staff from Thompson High School for conducting this program. Spring Baseball registra-tion will occur during January, so be sure to watch for future postings with details and dates.

gIrl’s soFtbAllGirls’ Fall Softball had five teams playing in Alabaster as well as the surrounding communities of Helena, Chelsea, and Colum-biana. “Thank you” to all the coaches and parents who sup-ported our fall program. Girls’ Spring Softball registration will occur during January so be sure to watch for future postings with details and dates.

PAvIlIoNs For reNtSeveral of our City Parks offer pavilions for rental use. With warm weather upon us, everyone is ready to visit the local parks for picnics, family reunions, and birthday parties. The best way to make sure your event happens at the location of your choice is to contact Parks & Recreation before the books are filled with reservations. Pavilions are available for use by permit only. There is a $40 rental fee (no checks accepted) and an additional, refundable $40 deposit (cash or check only) which must be paid before your reservation is complete. All open picnic tables (those not under a covering) are available free of charge on a first come, first served basis. Please see our web site for a complete list of rules. Note: Inflatables and char-coal grills are not allowed in any of the City parks.

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City Council meeting minutes (Abridged)(Unabridged version of minutes and resolutions/ordi-nances can be found on city webpage at www.cityofala-baster.com)

september 2nd - 7:01 p.m.Absent: Sophie Martin, Stacy Rakestraw

MAYOR COMMENTS Mayor Handlon conducted a swearing-in ceremo-ny for members of the Alabaster Fire Department

AGENDA ITEMS*Public Hearing on these items1. Ordinance 14-A09* Annexation Request –

127 Forest ParkwayCouncil Member Ryals made a motion to allow for immediate consideration of this an-nexation ordinance. Council Member Hicks seconded. During a roll call vote, all mem-bers voted yes to allow for immediate consid-eration. Council President Brakefield then opened the public hearing, allowing those present to speak for and against said Ordi-nance. With no public comment, the public hearing closed. Council Member Ryals made a motion to approve Ordinance 14-A09, with Council Member Walters seconding. Motion Passed Unanimously

2. Ordinance 14-A10* Annexation Request – 1759 Massey Road Council Member Bedsole made a motion to allow for immediate consideration of this annexation ordinance. Council Member Walters seconded. During a roll call vote, all members voted yes to allow for immediate consideration. Council President Brakefield then opened the public hearing, allowing those present to speak for and against said Ordinance. Amanda Cain of 1759 Massey Road spoke in favor of Ordinance. Having no one else speak for or against, public hear-ing closed. Council Member Bedsole made a motion to approve Ordinance 14-A10 with Council Member Hicks seconding. Motion Passed Unanimously

Said meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.

september 15th - 7:03 p.m.MAYOR COMMENTSMayor Handlon conducted a swearing-in ceremony for members of the Alabaster Fire Department and present-ed proclamations for domestic violence awareness day, family day, and Constitution week.

AGENDA ITEMS1. Resolution 091514 Big Brothers Big Sisters Agree-

mentCouncil Member Hicks made a motion to approve resolution 091514 allowing Big Brothers Big Sisters to lease an office within 100 Depot Street. Council Member Martin seconded. Motion Passed Unanimously

Said meeting adjourned at 7:30 pm.

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Year 2015 Sewer Fund budget. Council Member Walters seconded. Motion Passed Unanimously

3. Resolution 092514-B Fiscal Year 2015 Garbage Fund BudgetCouncil Member Martin made a motion to approve Resolution 092514-B concerning the Fiscal Year 2015 Garbage Fund budget. Council Member Hicks seconded. Motion Passed Unanimously

4. Resolution 092514-C Fiscal Year 2015 Employee Holiday ScheduleCouncil Member Bedsole made a motion to approve Resolution 092514-C setting the holiday schedule for Fiscal Year 2015. Council Member Martin seconded. Nays –Walters Motion Passed

5. Resolution 092514-D Agreement with RPC to up-date the City’s comprehensive plan.Council Member Walters made a motion to approve Resolution 092514-D. Council Member Rakestraw seconded. Motion Passed Unanimously

september 25th - 7:02 p.m.A special called meeting of the Alabaster City Council was held in the Council Chamber.Absent: Tommy Ryals

MAYOR COMMENTSMayor Handlon presented highlights of the proposed Fiscal Year 2015 budget. These included mention of a 2% COLA for all employees, effective Jan 1, 2015, vehicle acquisition for the Fire Department, conservative reve-nue projections, and an increase in forecast fund balance in excess of $300k.

AGENDA ITEMS1. Resolution 092514 Fiscal Year 2015 General Fund

BudgetCouncil Member Hicks made a motion to approve Resolution 092514 concerning the Fiscal Year 2015 General Fund budget. Council Member Rakestraw seconded. Motion Passed Unanimously

2. Resolution 092514-A Fiscal Year 2015 Sewer Fund BudgetCouncil Member Rakestraw made a motion to ap-prove Resolution 092514-A concerning the Fiscal

December 5th7 a.m. - 3 p.m.

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here just to write people tickets and put people in jail. We’re a part of the community too, and we want them to feel like we’re part of the community,” Chief Rigney said with a smile. “I felt like Facebook was the best way to do that.”

Although the whole department is having a little fun with the Facebook page – event promotions, naming the canine, posting relevant photos, etc. – it is also a way to deliver critical information instantaneously.

“I would like every citizen in Alabaster to follow us on the page, because in time of crisis – bad weather situations or a major incident – this would be a quick way to get information out to everybody,” continued Chief Rigney. “We can put that information out there on Facebook, and everybody would be able to get that information quick. If it helps one person, it’s well worth it.”

Coffee with a Cop: “When most people interact with the law enforcement officers, it’s in a stressful situation – a bad event at home, a traffic accident, a domestic issue,” shared Chief Rigney. “We wanted to have Coffee with a Cop so that people could sit down in a relaxed atmosphere where there is no stress and just interact.” At the Coffee with a Cop event, the Ala-baster community was granted the opportunity to sit down with the APD and freely express concerns and simply get to know those that serve them.

6. Resolution 092514-E Camera system for Sewer DepartmentCouncil Member Hicks made a motion to approve Resolution 092514-E allowing for the purchase of a camera system and equipment for the Sewer Department. Council Member Bedsole seconded. Motion Passed Unanimously

7. Resolution 092514-F Election Expenses Saddle Lakes FarmsCouncil Member Martin made a motion to approve Resolution 092514-F. Council Member Walters sec-onded. Motion Passed Unanimously

Said meeting adjourned at 7:23 p.m.

Alabaster Police department has gone Facebook

From ink and quill letters to rotary phones to internet to social media, time has completely transformed the way that we communicate. In this age of information, it is vitally important to communicate as effectively as possible.

And the Alabaster Police Department has gone Facebook.

“We just felt like that was the most popular way to get information out there,” said APD Chief Curtis Rigney. “We want to interact more with the community and we felt like that was a good way to do that.”

Just like personal uses for Facebook profiles, the APD provides information on its page and asks for feedback and input from the commu-nity.

“We just started a new K-9 program with a new canine officer,” added Chief Rigney. “We thought about what we’re going to name the new dog, so we put it on Facebook and asked everybody to vote and they chose a particular name and that’s what we’re going to stick with.”

The APD is using social media as a way to provide the citizens with more information and interact with the community in a positive light. “We want to let people know that we’re not out

One of Alabaster’s finest updating the Police Department’s Facebook Status.

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Being a caretaker comes with great responsibility – as-suring that your loved one is as comfortable as possible and showing the courage to stand with them in their final moments. It’s tough. It takes its toll. What do you do if you don’t know what to do?

“I was working intensive care and the patient I was work-ing with wanted to come off the ventilator,” shared Robin Oglesby, Branch Manager of VITAS in Alabaster. “He told me he understood what he was asking for and that he was ready.”

Oglesby shared how the physician came in and the patient informed him that he was ready. The physician informed the family and the patient died holding Ogelsby’s hand.

“I was there for him the whole day, and I wanted to be there with him until the end,” she said as her voiced wa-vered, choking back tears. “Nobody has to die alone unless they want too.”

Oglesby continued sharing how his story touched her, and she knew then, where she needed to be. When she hap-pened upon a friend working in hospice care, she learned of an opening and knew that she needed to apply.

“Hospice tries to explain to families about the end of life,” she said. “No one is anxious or looking forward to it, and it’s not something you’re ever really ready for - it’s a scary thing. When I train new nurses, I am sure to make sure they know how to talk to and explain it to the families.”

VITAS is the nation’s leading provider of end of life care. The company started in 1978 and currently sees approxi-mately 13,000 patients a day throughout the 17 states it serves. The Alabaster branch serves the community within a 50-mile radius of the city.

“I was actually with another hospice care provider in the area when I heard about VITAS,” continued Oglesby. “They didn’t have a position open, so I waited for three years until they did. I’m a firm believer of hospice and the VITAS phi-losophy puts family first. It was nice to come to a company that actually practices that philosophy.”

VITAS provides an individualized plan of care for pa-tients with medically complex cases that includes routine

“It’s a real honor for us to care for the families of the patient that allow us to be a part of their end of life.”

-robin oglesbybranch manager of vItAs

home care, intensive comfort care, respite care, and inpa-tient hospice unit care. The company also offers services to accommodate the families more than a year after the loss – a memory bear, counseling, support groups, and memorial services.

“Hospice is not about dying; it’s about living every day that you have left,” concluded Ogelsby. “It’s a real honor for us to care for the families of the patient that allow us to be a part of their end of life.”

If you have a genuine heart to serve, call (205)663-5614.

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Abatement board It can be a tough pill to swallow to hear that

a home has been determined a public nuisance. For a home to be open to the public, structurally impaired, or partially burned, something has to be done – for safety’s sake.

“There were three structures on one lot on 6th Avenue near the Shelby County Resource Center and one of the structures had squatters in it,” shared Emmit Stallworth, Building Official for the City of Alabaster. “The people had rigged power, stolen from somebody, and connected it to the meter with a fork. They had no running water. It was just a bad situation.”

The case was introduced to the board and the abatement process began – inspection of the home, adding it to the agenda, giving notice to the owner listed on the tax record, determining if the property in question is a public nuisance, and finally abatement – demolish, board up, or bring back to code.

“When we went through the process, the guy that was squatting in the house – who did not know the owner – actually showed up to speak on behalf of keeping the house,” continued Stall-worth as he painted a vivid mental picture. “He asked the city not to demolish it.”

Although the people living in the home were there illegally, when they appealed the decision and took it to the city council, it set the process back a few months. The squatters may not have had the desire to leave, but living in those cir-cumstances put their lives in jeopardy.

“Finally, we abated it and demolished the property,” Stallworth said. “We actually got in contact with the owner according to tax record and she had no idea who that person was. We don’t know what happened with the squatters after the property was demolished.”

The Housing and Abatement Board ensured the property was vacant before demolition. Many times the homeowners take care of the property and the city does not need to step in, but in some cases, other actions have to be ex-plored.

“We’ve had other houses that were in bad shape and the owner came in and renovated the house and brought it up to code, so we took it off the agenda. It works both ways,” he conclud-ed. “I think the board is a good thing. We have very professional ladies and gentleman on the board and they make really good decisions on whether the houses need to be abated.”

Chairman Steven West, Chairman Pro Tempore Alvin Hardee, Marsha Bates, Jeffery Chupp, Mobolaji Kukoyi, Joseph Lewis, Trey Lightsey, Rusty Martin, and Glenn Opper – members of the Housing and Abatement Board – meet on the second Tuesday of every month.

What are you thankful for?What immediately comes to mind when you think of

Thanksgiving? Do you think of turkeys or fresh, home-baked pies? Do you think of spending time with your family? Do you think about the first celebration with the first settlements in America?

Giving thanks through prayers and special ceremonies are common in different religious sects. Schools often pair an activity with the history of the holiday to teach students of its importance to the country. And families often celebrate by the breaking of bread and old fashion conversation.

We asked the “Yaa-Yaa Sisterhood” to share what they were thankful for. The Yaa-Yaa’s are a group of women who get together just to enjoy each other’s company – meeting often at the Starbucks on Kent Dairy Road, in Alabaster.

“I’m thankful for stories,” shared Burma Hamby.

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“They are important to share. They’re part of us sharing our humanity. They tell us about who we are.”

“I’m thankful for a visit from my son and daughter-in-law,” shared Molly Clark, a new addition to the Yaa-Yaa Sisterhood. “They have been in Germany for six years, and now they are living in the United States. They came to see my husband and I on the way to a wedding.”

“I have to say I’m thankful for my dear husband, Edward,” shared Ann Avery. “My mama even called him God’s Gift to me, because she prayed and prayed that I would have somebody precious.”

“I’m thankful for God giving me a chance just to get up in the morning,” started Louise Truncali. “And I thank God for wonderful friends. This is my family, and I’m so blessed.”

So, what are you thankful for?

The self proclaimed Ya-ya Sisters outside their favorite watering hole, Starbucks.

“I have to say I’m thankful for my dear husband, edward.”

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Project searchProject SEARCH is an internship program

designed to place graduates with special needs in a career that will benefit them.

“Project SEARCH teaches interns from the ground up,” said Kimberly Kielbasa, a job coach for Project SEARCH. “It teaches grooming, dressing properly, working with your cowork-ers, participating in office activities, and being timely and accountable.”

Michael Harve, Jr. accepted a position at the place in which he grew up - Thompson Middle School.

“It feels amazing to work with the people who used to teach me,” added Harve with a smile that could brighten any room. “I’m now 20-years-old, and I’m going back to my old school.”

Harve has a special need that keeps him confined to a wheelchair, but just by meeting Mikey – as his friends call him – you would immediately learn that the chair does not de-fine who he is. Always laughing and smiling, Mikey’s vibrant personality greets every guest, student, and faculty member at the door.

“The best part about where I’ve been and where I’m at is having all the job skills I’ve learned. I got to bring that into a school – not just a school, but to a school that I went to,” Harve continued.

Finding job placements for the interns is more than just signing them up for a new job and hoping for the best. Job coaches work alongside the new employees every step of the way.

“We don’t just find the jobs,” added Kielbasa. “We go and do the training, and we follow them until they are comfortable. If there are any new

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“It feels amazing to work with the people who used to teach me.”

-michael harve, Jr.

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responsibilities or new tasks, we will always come in and help with their new assignments, new goals, or their new work environment.”

Project SEARCH job coaches also work closely with the parents of the interns. Allow-ing someone else to work with your son with special needs can be nerve-wrecking, to say the least. “The relationship with Project SEARCH is the most rewarding thing about this pro-gram,” shared teary-eyed Valerie Brown, Michael’s mother. “There are so many rewards, but the major reward is that you feel so loved. You’re not just a number. Your child is not just a number. They really do care.”

Brown shared her gratitude for the program and how it has given Mikey an opportunity to have a career that he may not have otherwise received. She also spoke of the special care that the coaches give to the interns and to the families.

“I went and met with Dr. Vickers and spoke about our program, which he was well aware of, and he asked, What can we do?” shared Kielbasa. “I said, He’s gone through our pro-gram which is affiliated with ACS, now let’s show people how confident we are in our work. Hire him back into your system.”

Kielbasa got to share the great news with Valerie and accompany Mr. Harve to his job interview where he was offered a position in the Alabaster City School System.

“It’s funny how it just comes full circle,” concluded awestruck Kielbasa. “We tell our students, we open up the door, it’s up to them to walk through the door and make the miracle happen.”

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The newly appointed Beautification Board awarded The City of Alabaster their Commercial Beautifica-tion Award for the month of November. In giving the award they acknowledged the new Municipal Complex, housing City Hall and City Courts, as setting a standard in aesthetic while preserving the heritage of the building site. The board will be awarding residential winners as well. If you would like to nominate your neighbor or neighborhood business contact City Hall or use the online submit a concern form.

beAutIFICAtIoN AWArd

Alabaster U11 boys soccer competed in the 7th Birmingham Bash Tournament. 50 soccer clubs participate in the tournament. Alabaster U-11 takes home first place!

u-11 ChAmPsGreater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce hosted a 2014 Industry Block Party. Elected officials were in-troduced and Mayor Marty Handlon shared comments. Following the program, lunch, door prizes and a tour was given.

shelby West bloCk PArty

Coffee with a Cop was an event where the commu-nity was able to speak with officers in a non-stress-ful environment. Two librarians sat down with one of Alabaster’s finest police officers to have a cup of coffee and pleasant conversation.

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