fesAlabaster’s new amphitheater and the senior center expansion were finished just in time for the city’s annual Christmas festivities on December 6. Both projects were approved by the city council and built in just under a year for less than $5 million. Both will support the community in unique and interesting ways.
Amphitheater
With a state-of-the-art sound system, video board, and sound control system running underground, the community will have countless opportunities for significant events. In the backstage area, there will be a fully furnished green room for performing artists before they take the stage. “We are so excited for our community,” says Ward 5 council member Jamie Cole, “and we are also excited to welcome those in from surrounding communities to enjoy what Alabaster has to offer.” The grass area will have options for seating and blankets, allowing both a concert and a picnic-type environment. “We want our citizens to visit this facility as often as possible,” Cole says.
Senior Center
Senior Center manager Stacy Payton is excited about having the large new multi-use space added to her facility. “We just needed more room for everything,” Payton says, “and this addition will give us that.” The most obvious use for this new room will be for exercise. “We have been using our dining room as the exercise room, and that’s okay, but that space is not big enough to accommodate everyone at once so that challenge will be solved.” The new space will also be used for larger gatherings, recognitions and celebrations both connected to the Senior Center and other city and civic groups who want to use the space. “And we will also use to area for other day to day activities with indoor and outdoor seating,” Payton says. With over 1,000 members, the Senior Center stays very busy. The only prerequisite to join is to be over 55 and live in Shelby County. Membership is free, while certain activities including lunch have small costs associated with it. “We are very much looking forward to all the ways we will use this new space,” Payton offers, “and grateful to have the support of the city and our community.”
Congratulations to the Alabaster Festival of Trees winners.
Best Business Showcase: Alabaster Florist
Best Support-a-Cause: Gafnea Health
Jolly Award for Best Holiday Tree: Massey Heating and Cooling
Most Creative Tree: All In Care
Santa’s Showcase Tree/Best Showstopper: Carmeuse Lime and Stone
Shining Bright Tree/Best Night Display: Psi Xi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.
Cindy Lou Who Best Holiday Cheer Tree: Tracy Coyne and Crystal Russell with ARC Realty
Best City Department Tree: Alabaster Public Works Department