the anniston progress.:spring 2016:

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Blending Act IN EVERY ISSUE: COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS { DEPARTMENTS UPDATES } CALENDAR OF EVENTS IN THIS ISSUE: Anniston Cycling Classic Noble Street Festival Economic Development Update City Strategic Plan Update ANNISTONIAN THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE CITY OF ANNISTON | SPRING 2016 Annual bike races just one spoke in Anniston's wellness initiatives FREE

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The purpose of “The Anniston Progress” city newsletter is to foster clear, concise, and open communication between the City of Anniston and its citizens. This free quarterly newsletter is here to serve as a resource guide for all Annistonians, allowing them to connect directly to their city at no cost to them. Here you will find important city updates, contact information, and a community calendar that brick-by-brick builds a stronger bridge of communication—for all of Anniston. A community is nothing without the engagement of its citizens, and as the City of Anniston continues to grow in a new direction it is my hope that you will be right there with us. Enjoy The Progress.

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: The Anniston Progress.:Spring 2016:

Blending Act

in every issue: council communications { departments updates } calendar of events

In thIs Issue:

Anniston CyclingClassic

Noble Street Festival

Economic Development Update

City Strategic PlanUpdate

ANNiStoNiANTHE

official nEwslETTEr of THE ciTy of annisTon | SPRiNG 2016

Annual bike races just one spoke in Anniston's wellness initiatives

FRee

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*Medical professionals may include physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners.

StringfellowMemorial.com

Less waiting where it matters most – our emergency room.

In a medical emergency, every minute matters. So, at Stringfellow Memorial Hospital, you’ll fnd faster care in the emergency room. We work diligently to have you initially seen by a medical professional* in 30 minutes – or less. And, with a team of dedicated medical specialists, we can provide a lot more care, if you need it.

The 30-Minutes-Or-Less E.R. Service Pledge – only at Stringfellow Memorial Hospital.

i would be lying if i said the Council is satisfied with our progress during the past three and one half years. there is much to be done to bring Anniston back to “the Model City,” but i am comfortable in saying that our collective efforts in generating job growth, improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life have set the stage for success not seen in our community in many years.

incentive packages funded through the recently created Downtown Development Authority have provided critical funding support to help grow businesses in the downtown core, giving

monies directly to developers to improve storefronts and overcome the burden of replacing electrical, mechanical and roofing systems, making these historic structures once again viable considerations.

With the opening of the new bypass, McClellan can now be viewed in a new light. the McClellan Development Authority and the City of Anniston are working in concert to clear available lands of timber and derelict structures to posture the city for new retail, industrial and housing growth. industrial growth is beginning to blossom at McClellan where iAC has added over 300 jobs, Medi-Klean prepares to open and the Economic Development Council prepares to market their newly constructed spec building.

Monies generated through newly created Stormwater User Fees have allowed the city to address long overdue repairs to our aging storm drainage systems, with the clearing of multiple ditch lines, rebuilding of several culverts and replacement of failed piping. While not a particular sexy part of the development picture, this may be our most vital component as we recruit businesses to join our community. the complete overhaul of the zoning regulations poise the city to be more inviting to outside development and streamline the process for new business.

And we continue to pursue improvements to our quality of life, with the completion of the new Wellness Park and walking trails at Carver Park, the continued addition of bike trails at Coldwater Mountain, and the exceptional growth of our youth soccer program (now the third largest in the state). Bike lanes will be added to our downtown core over the next few months and Ladiga trail will be extended into McClellan. Longleaf Botanical Gardens continues to progress and will soon be brought online as a complement to our outstanding museum complex.

And while we have made good progress, it is not enough to satisfy this Council. We want to see this momentum turn into a firestorm of growth in all facets of city life. We welcome your ideas of progress and your criticism. it is truly Anniston’s time to spring into action.

councIl communIcAtIons

Jay Jenkins, Ward 1 Councilman

1930 Quintard Ave.Anniston, AL 36201

256-624-6404

539 Quintard Dr.Oxford, AL 36203

256-342-5157

Cricket Wireless Authorized Retailer

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AnnIston cItY councIlMayor VAughn stewARt(256) [email protected]

Councilman JAY JenkIns WARD 1(256) [email protected]

Councilman DAVID ReDDIckWARD 2(256) [email protected]

Councilman seYRAm selAse WARD 3(256) [email protected]

Councilwoman mIllIe hARRIsWARD 4(256) [email protected]

CitY MANAGERBRIAn Johnson(256) [email protected]

the Anniston City Council will hold its formal Council Meetings every 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. these dates are subject to change. Further notice will be given in such event.

uPcomIng meetIngs

March 7 & March 21April 4 & April 18May 2 & May 16

“Economic development” is a term that’s becoming more familiar around Anniston.

it seems like a simple concept to grasp — “developing the economy” is right there in the name — but details can be hazy without a master’s degree in public administration, a firm concept of local economics and years of experience. Fortunately, Anniston’s director of economic development, Eric Basinger, has exactly those qualifications.

“Anniston’s story hasn’t been told outside a context of a county-wide story for years,” said Basinger, who took over his position in late 2014. “We’ve been doing that for a little over a year now and i think we’re starting to see investors take notice.”

it’s Basinger’s job to show outside investors that Anniston is a place where their business can thrive,

which in turn leads to new jobs for Annistonians that allow them to support local businesses, leading to growth in commercial areas and the growth of downtown. According to Basinger, there are three key areas that he’s always watching:

InDustRIAlDrawing in industrial business is the most important

leg of economic development, according to Basinger. “People have to have stable incomes and provide for

their families, and if they can’t do that the retail doesn’t really matter,” he said.

Every company has a main, driving need that Anniston can support, and identifying that need is the first step in bringing in new jobs. Developments like the recently completed Veterans Memorial Parkway mean cheaper

economic Development

Cover Art Photography by David Cummings

Composite image by Suzen Robertson

photos courtesy of the anniston star

Get the onlineversion here!

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transportation costs, and Anniston’s location between Birmingham and Atlanta make it a prime location for hosting business operations. that the city’s quality of life is always improving is another major draw, even in industrial relations.

“they like knowing they’re in an area that has a lot going for it, that it’s more than a piece of land,” said Basinger.

RetAIl

Anniston’s retail development is built up by looking at national trends and using that information to make the city as attractive as larger cities to draw business. there’s also significant growth from within, as in the case of Rosie’s Gourmet to Go, which started as a vendor at Anniston’s Downtown Market and is set to open in the Golden Springs area as a full-fledged restaurant.

“Most of the time communities chase after chain restaurants, and

we have to do some of that, but if you can get an independently-owned restaurant, it’s a really big win,” said Basinger. “i’ll be talking about that 20 years from now.”

Downtownthe growth of the downtown area

as a whole is tied to cultural growth and improvements to quality of life, which help bring in new business and new jobs. Events like the Noble Street Festival and the Sunny King Criterium lend Anniston credibility as a place where health takes precedence in activities, while the growing arts community tells the story of the city in a language that’s easy to understand, and has a clear, hopeful message.

“When you do your strategic planning process, you look at what your strengths and weaknesses are, and we have a ton of strengths here,” said Basinger.

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the meeting will be held on the rooftop of downtown Anniston’s Commerce towers building, an 11-story titan overlooking the entire city, on April 14 from 4:00 - 7:30 p.m. throughout the afternoon the one City, one Vision steering committee will provide updates every half hour on progress made in the last three years toward the program’s goal of improving quality of life, public safety, education and economic development, among other goals.

“We thought it was only appropriate to go to the rooftop to make announcements about our Vision plan,” said Anniston Mayor Vaughn Stewart. “it allows you to take a glimpse of Anniston in the next five to 10 years and what it will be, and there’s no better place to visualize that than on top of the city.”

the meeting will also be looking at the five and 10-year plans for future development in the city, with eyes on continued growth while improving local neighborhoods and providing services to make Anniston a mecca for quality of life in northeast Alabama. Members of the public are encouraged to attend to help shape the city’s future by providing input.

“it’s a living document, it’s subject to change, and we always welcome more citizens to get involved,” said Stewart. “there’s room at the table for everybody.”

whAt: one City, one Vision Progress Reportwhen: April 14 from 4:00 - 7:30 p.m. wheRe: Commerce towers roof, 801 Noble Street

Anniston’s one city, one Vision program has always been about elevating the city, but the program’s April progress meeting is a much more literal take on reaching new heights.

For more information: www.careykirby.com • 256-591-1602Paid political advertisement by Campaign to Elect Carey N. Kirby, P.O. Box 404, Choccolocco, AL 36254

H Practicing attorney for almost 15 yearsH Member of ACDLA (Alabama Criminal

Defense Lawyers Association)H 2010 Clarence Darrow Award recipient

H Conservative Christian and family valuesH Member of Anniston First Baptist

Church at McClellanH Honest, fair and dependable

H Impartial and unbiased

Page 6: The Anniston Progress.:Spring 2016:

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knox conceRt seRIes

the midtown menwhen: April 9 at 7:30 p.m.where: Anniston Performing Arts CenterInfo: Mandi King, 256-235-2553 and knoxconcertseries.org

it’s not unheard of for popular music groups to have Broadway shows based around their songs, with Buddy holly, the Beatles and ABBA featured in “jukebox musicals” full of their music. But seldom does a band form from the cast of one of those musicals, as in the case of the Midtown Men. the four-piece singing group formed from members of the principal cast of “Jersey Boys,” a Broadway show about the Four Seasons. Along with their 7-piece backing band, the boys-to-men perform 60s hits and capture the feel of the decade through their songs and style.

cAst PRoDuctIons

Vanya and sonia and masha and spikewhen: March 17-19 and 24-26 at 7:30 p.m., March 20 at 2:30 p.m.where: Foothills theatre, 412 Buckner Dr, Annistoncost: $20 general admission, $10 studentsInfo: castalabama.com

this Checkhov-inspired comedy tells the story of three middle-aged siblings as they sort out their lives while one of them threatens to sell their family home. Add in the trio’s theatrical madness (dressing as Snow White and her dwarves, trying to land parts in a sequel to the television show “Entourage”) and it’s pure spectacle.

hairspraywhen: April 21-23 and 28-30 at 7:30 p.m., April 24 and May 1 at 2:30 p.m.where: McClellan theatre, 100 Gamecock Drive, Fort McClellancost: $20 general admission, $10 studentsInfo: castalabama.com

teen tracy turnblad wants to dance on the Corny Collins Show and becomes an overnight celebrity when she succeeds, while falling in love and meeting colorful characters along the way in this musical remake of the John Waters film.

cItY DePARtments

BRIAn JohnsonCity Manager(256) [email protected]

AlAn AtkInsonCity Clerk(256) [email protected]

steVen FolksPARD Director(256) [email protected]

coRY sAlleYDirector of Finance(256) [email protected]

eRIc BAsIngeRDirector of Economic Development (256) [email protected]

tonY tAYloRFire Chief(256) [email protected]

shAne DenhAmPolice Chief(256) [email protected]

toBY BennIngtonDirector of Planning(256) [email protected]

RoBeRt J. DeAn, JR.Public Works Director(256) [email protected]

knox AnD cAst if you want to take in arts culture in Anniston, look no further than the stages of the Anniston Performing Arts Center and McClellan theatre, where the Knox Concert Series and CASt will be showing off music, drama and comedy all the way through May:

TRY THE Y!Bring this ad, along with a valid ID to the YMCA Member Care Desk to redeem a FREE 5-Day Trial Membership to the YMCA OF CALHOUN COUNTY

Downtown Anniston Y29 West 14th StreetAnniston, AL 36201

256.238.YMCA

Oxford Y1714 AL Hwy 21 S, Ste A

Oxford, AL 36203256.832.YMCA

Learn more at ymcacalhoun.org

APN

Page 7: The Anniston Progress.:Spring 2016:

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summer is only a few months away, and with so many options for activities in Anniston, there’s no reason to wait to the last minute to register the kids for their summer adventures.

Whether it’s hiking through Appalachian forests, swimming in our lakes and rivers or taking on activities like archery and canoeing, there’s something for everyone. Check out the day camps offered here and see what’s a perfect fit for your family:

city of Anniston Parks and Recreation Department Day campswhat: Day camps offered by Anniston Parks and Recreation at three locations, each with activities for kids ages 5-12. when: 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday starting May 31. where: Anniston Aquatics and Fitness Center, hodges Community Center and Wiggins Community Center. cost: Camp fees for residents of the City of Anniston are $55 per week, per child or $545 for entire camp. Weekly fees for non-residents are $60 per week, per child or $594 for entire camp. Daily fee is $15. there is a $25 registration fee for all campers. Fees are non-refundable. Monthly rates for residents and non-residents are also available. Register: Forms available at all community centers and City hall starting April 25.

YmcA camp hamiltonwhat: the Y’s summer day camp features a range of activities for kids ages 7-12, with swimming, fishing, canoeing and paddle-boating for the aquatic-minded, and hiking, archery, arts and group games for land lovers. when: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. starting May 26

where: Campers are dropped off at the Anniston YMCA and shuttled to Camp hamilton.cost: $35 registration April; $45 regular registration. $90 per child per week for YMCA members, $100 per week per child for non-members.Register: Visit ymcacalhoun.org for information and registration forms, including the required Participant information Form.

YmcA kinder campwhat: Kids ages 4-6 years play games, make arts and crafts, listen to music, watch movies, exercise and learn. when: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. starting May 26 where: Anniston YMCAcost: $35 registration April; $45 regular registration. $90 per child per week for YMCA members, $100 per week per child for non-members.Register: Visit ymcacalhoun.org for information and registration forms, including the required Participant information Form.

First united methodist churchwhat: First United Methodist Church’s day camp at Camp Lee is a Bible-oriented program for kids from kindergarten to 5th grade, with games, music, swimming and Bible study courses. when: 9-2 p.m. each weekday in June, with two weeks for each age group. where: the “Lee Farm” area of Camp Lee, 70 Camp Lee Main Road, Annistoncost: $85 per weekRegister: Visit camplee.org/day-camp for forms and contact information.

grace episcopal church Foothills Day campwhat: Grace’s outreach camp for kids ages 6-10 brings children together to hike, swim, ride the Camp Lee zipline and participate in games and guided activities. when: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., July 11-15where: Campers meet at Grace Episcopal, 1000 Leighton Ave., Anniston, and are shuttled to Camp Leecost: FreeRegister: Call 256-236-4457 to register, and visit graceanniston.org/foothills-day-camp for details.

Fun In the sun

photos courtesy of the anniston star

Page 8: The Anniston Progress.:Spring 2016:

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terry Phillis is a cyclist to the core.take a look around the Anniston-

based urologist’s restaurant, Mellow Mushroom of oxford, and you can see the ways cycling has touched his life, with photos from the tour de France and pictures of his family with riders visiting Anniston for the Sunny King Criterium lining the walls beneath biking equipment, alongside dozens of rider number cards worn during races, displayed proudly on the wall. if you ask the doctor why he’s so into biking, he’ll tell you that it’s because it’s a fun outlet that helps keep him fit.

“i like being able to do something where i can push myself, be a little competitive and still be outside and healthy,” Phillis said.

But he doesn’t stop at simply enjoying the sport; he’s involved in supporting Anniston’s biking scene personally, taking on responsibilities like inviting riders from out of town who will be racing in the Criterium to stay in his home overnight, and using his position as owner of Mellow Mushroom to sponsor a cycling team that includes legendary riders like Laura Van Gilder. though the doctor does these things just for fun, it’s clear to see that he’s interested in making a difference for anyone who enjoys biking and wants to get a head start

on improving physical fitness and overall health.

“it’s natural that we want to be more competitive, have good stuff, it might be a way to promote the restaurant,” said Phillis, musing about his reasons for sponsoring the Mellow Mushroom team. “As we involved more young people, it became kind of a mission to make sure they had the stuff they needed to compete.”

Focusing on fostering the community surrounding the Noble Street Festival and Sunny King Criterium means more to Anniston than just helping a bike race be a successful event. it’s also part of fostering the connection between Annistonians and their health, a connection that’s even apparent in Phillis’ own family.

his kids have grown up around cyclists, and know more of their names than those of athletes from more mainstream sports. the Phillis family still trades Christmas cards with one of the first riders to stay with them, who came all the way from New Zealand, a testament to the bonds being formed every year around the race.

“the riders are super appreciative of that, and once you see how much help you’ve been it makes you want to help more,” said Phillis.

"Focusing on fostering the community surrounding the noble street Festival and sunny king criterium means more to Anniston than just helping a bike race be a successful event."

Rolling toward better healthAnnual bike races just one spoke in Anniston's wellness initiatives

photo by david cummings

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the spirit of helping others take part in Anniston’s health and exercise is becoming more ubiquitous, with more initiatives, groups and exercise locations opening up around the city. one new example this year is the Mayor’s Ride, a bicycle ride set to take place March 13.

“Mayors are having rides in towns that are pushing for cycling to be a major staple, or in our case, a major component of economic stimulus,” said Patrick Wigley, owner of Wig’s Wheels, a bicycle store in downtown Anniston. Participants will ride with the mayor himself in what Wigley, who helped plan a route for the ride through Anniston, describes as a “casual ride” that can

accommodate a variety of ages and skill level.

the spirit of better health also extends to independent organizations, like Black Girls RUN!, a group that encourages African-American women of all ages to get fit and live healthy lifestyles. the group will be returning to the Woodstock 5k in August this year, but tamara Kidd, administrator for Black Girls RUN! in this area, says that events are taking place all year round.

“We train more and prepare [for Woodstock], but we make sure we’re always giving back to the community,” said Kidd. the group gets together to run and walk

(continued on page 14)

photos courtesy of the anniston star

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mARchVanya and sonia and masha and spikewhat: CASt tells the story of three siblings sorting out their lives as one sister threatens to sell the family home. when: March 17-19 and 24-26 at 7:30 p.m., March 20 at 2:30 p.m.where: Foothills theatre, 412 Buckner Dr, Annistoncost: $20 GA, $10 studentsInfo: castalabama.com

touch-A-truck extravaganzawhat: Kids can see police cars, fire trucks, construction vehicles and meet their drivers, then get books to learn more about them. when: March 31, 2-4 p.m.where: Anniston-Calhoun Public Library parking lot, 108 E 10th St, AnnistonInfo: 256-237-8501

the Downtown market openswhat: Anniston’s farmer’s market opens for the season, with fresh fruits, vegetables and goods from Calhoun County producers. when: March 28 from 7-12 p.m., and every Saturday through oct. 31. where: 176 W. 12th Street, AnnistonInfo: annistonmarket.com

APRIlnoble street Festivalwhat: Anniston’s day-long biking celebration, featuring the Sunny King Criterium, live music, food and games. when: April 2-3 at 10 a.m.where: Downtown AnnistonInfo: annistonal.gov

Pop up gallerywhat: A gallery display during the Noble Street Festival, presented by Main Street Art Project. when: April 2 from 11-8 p.m. where: 10th and NobleInfo: Email [email protected] or call Sarah Cavender at 256-454-2384 or Ed Deyo at 256-283-5275 for details.

the midtown menwhat: Four stars of Broadway’s “Jersey Boys” play hits from the 60s with a full backing band. when: April 9 at 7:30 p.m.where: Anniston Performing Arts Center, 1301 Woodstock Ave, AnnistonInfo: Mandi King, 256-235-2553

chalk the walkwhat: Main Street Art Project’s public sidewalk chalk art competition. when: All day April 16

where: Noble StreetInfo: Email [email protected] or call Sarah Cavender at 256-454-2384 or Ed Deyo at 256-283-5275 for more information or to participate.

2016 spring Plant salewhat: the Anniston Museum of Natural history’s annual plant sale, benefitting Longleaf Botanical Gardens. when: April 22-23where: Anniston Museum of Natural history, 800 Museum Drive, AnnistonInfo: 256-237-6766; annistonmuseum.org

hairspraywhat: the famous Broadway musical based on John Waters’ film of the same name, as performed by CASt.

when: April 21-23 and 28-30 at 7:30 p.m., April 24 and May 1 at 2:30 p.m.where: McClellan theatre, 100 Gamecock Drive, Fort McClellancost: $20 general admission, $10 studentsInfo: castalabama.com

ARts AnD enteRtAInment

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Bring in the New Year with a New YouOpen 24 Hours

• Free child care • Group fitness • (Step/Zumba/Pound/Insanity) • Free personal training • Free weight room • Healthy smoothie bar • Cardio station• Whirlpool, sauna, steamroom

• Free WIFI • Friendly atmosphere • VIVA provider$19.99 per month or $200 for the year.

Must present coupon to receive special offer.Please call Wynika at 256-237-4206

for your membership today.Located in the Big Lots shopping center.

Some qualifications may apply.Hurry in.

Offer ends March 15th.

holiday closingsgood Friday (Friday, march 25)Anniston City hall • PARD Community CentersAnniston Public Library • Early release for Anniston City Schools

easter (sunday, march 27)Anniston Museum of Natural history • Berman Museum of World history

spring Break (march 28-April 1)Anniston City Schools

memorial Day (monday, may 30)Anniston City hall • Anniston Public Library WDNG

MEDIA

Your News/Talk Leader in Calhoun CountyNews Talk 1450 AM

Registration forms can be found at annistonal.gov under “Parks and Recreation”

sPRIng socceRAnniston PARD Soccer will be registering for Spring Soccer for the entire month of February. Registration fee is $75 and includes a full uniform (jersey, shorts and socks) and a soccer ball. JSU Women’s Soccer team will be hosting Monday Night Academy Skills camp for all Anniston PARD soccer players. League play begins on Saturday, April 2nd.

t.o.t. socceRt.o.t. Soccer (teaching our toddlers) is an introduction to soccer for children aged 1 ½ to 3 ½ years old. Anniston PARD will be conducting registration for the Spring sessions for the entire month of February. t.o.t. Soccer meets once a week. Registration fee is $40 and includes 6 sessions, t-shirt, soccer ball and certificate.

t-BAll/BAseBAllAnniston PARD t-ball/Baseball will be registering for the entire month of February. Fees for both are $35 and includes hat, shirt and pants.

PRe-tRYout VolleYBAll skIlls tRAInIngthe City of Anniston welcomes you to join our school pre-tryout volleyball training, coached & directed by SouthJamm Volleyball Club. Sign ups start February 1, 2016 at the Anniston Aquatic & Fitness Center (Miller Gym, McClellan). the cost is $100 per month ($25 per week) for a 2-hour training session each Sunday (4 training days).

Anniston Parks & Rec sports signups mYsteRY Photo

Page 13: The Anniston Progress.:Spring 2016:

The Anniston StarPound-for-pound the best newspaper in Alabama

Print • Online

To subscribe to The Anniston Star call (256) 235-9253

The Star

www.annistonstar.com

Page 14: The Anniston Progress.:Spring 2016:

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anniston’s annual celebration of fitness, biking and our arts culture returns april 2-3, complete with vendors, food, activities and the sunny King criterium bike race.

races begin at 10 a.m. and continue throughout the day as riders from entry-level to professional take on the downtown course, running 11th and 12th streets between Wilmer and moore, culminating in the men’s pro race starting at 7:30 p.m.

if you’re not watching the races, the scion KidZone is packed with activities for the whole family to enjoy, from cooking adventures at Kids in the Kitchen to the mellow mushroom mad dash, or a meet and greet with the star Wars cast.

for those who want to see anniston culture up close, live music from local musicians will take place throughout the day, and the pop up gallery, featuring Jacksonville state university student artists and local artisans displaying work from a variety of mediums, from sculpture to ceramics and paintings to fused glass.

more details about food, arts and crafts will be announced closer to the start of the noble street festival.

for more information, call main street anniston at 256-236-0996.

Noble Street FeStival

learn more about cycling in anniston by visiting neaba.net, which features trail maps and event information throughout Northeast alabama.

visit blackgirlsrun.com for more information about black Girls rUN! activities and to join the organization.

Find out more about anniston’s Downtown Market by visiting annistonmarket.com.

regularly, and Kidd emphasized that their exercises are meant for any level of health, from seasoned runners to those just starting out.

For those who want to get some exercise without necessarily hopping on a bike or joining an exercise crew, Anniston’s new Satcher Wellness Park, the exercise park in Zinn Park and the new Mike tucker Park Campground offer opportunities for activity to the whole family, with exercise equipment, rest areas and access to bike trails. Bikers with a more active bent can make their way to Coldwater Mountain Bike Park, where trails cut through nature over hills and around roots, rocks and other natural obstacles.

Annistonians who want to achieve better health through eating can visit the Downtown Market starting April 23, where community members can shop for locally grown produce, as well as listen to live music from Calhoun County musicians and take in a sense of community that, according to market manager Jean Ann oglesby, keeps growing every year.

“We get a lot of people visiting our community who hadn’t heard about us before saying, ‘Wow, this is cool,’” said oglesby. “We’ve got picnic tables where they can enjoy coffee from Southern Girl, a scone from Artisanal Baked Goods, and that makes it a

social gathering, as well.” Continued growth of the community and its health

and wellness initiatives is something that Phillis wants to see continue to progress in Anniston as the needs of its residents continue to evolve over time.

“the experts who build mountain bike trails, they know they’re organic, things that change constantly, different in a year or 10 years from now,” he said, noting that riders will change the trails over time by riding around and over roots and rocks. “they change tack over time, and we need the same open mind about city trails, too.”

(continued from page 9)

Page 15: The Anniston Progress.:Spring 2016:

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When you or a loved one need the latest in cardiac care, look no further than right here. RMC provides prevention, evaluation and treatment services for those with known or suspected cardiovascular disease. Our physicians and sta� are highly skilled in advanced diagnostics and the latest interventions.

Trust your heart to RMC, where our family treats you like family.

Page 16: The Anniston Progress.:Spring 2016:

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