the anniston progress.:spring2015:

16
Say ‘hello’ TO SPRING ANNISTON CITY COUNCIL Mayor VAUGHN STEWART (256) 231-7691 [email protected] Councilman JAY JENKINS WARD 1 (256) 231-7698 [email protected] Councilman DAVID REDDICK WARD 2 (256) 231-7688 [email protected] Councilman SEYRAM SELASE Ward 3 (256) 231-7687 [email protected] Councilwoman MILLIE HARRIS Ward 4 (256) 231-7692 [email protected] CITY MANAGER Brian Johnson (256) 231-7705 [email protected] STAY CONNECTED WEBSITE: www.annistonal.gov FACEBOOK: /thecityofanniston TWITTER: @annistonalgov INSTAGRAM: helloanniston Art by: Diamond Lunsford Grade: Pre-K Academy Teacher: Mrs. Kimberly Ireland School: Randolph Park Elementary T he City of Anniston is gearing up for the best spring has to offer with exciting events and activities for the whole family. The following events have served as annual staples for the community and continue to provide quality of life oppor- tunities for all Annistonians. Whether it’s a bike ride, the sampling of delicious food, the planting of new trees, or just seeing old friends again, Anniston’s got it this spring. ARBOR DAY 2015 This year’s Arbor Day cele- bration will serve as a green way to kick off the beginning of a blossoming season. Arbor Day, first held in 1872, is a day dedicated to the pub- lic planting of trees in com- munities across the country. It is held nationally on the last day in April, yet state Arbor Day dates vary according to their best tree-planting times. Alabama observes Arbor Day during the last full week of February, and on Thursday, Feb. 26 the City of Anniston will plant willow oak trees at schools across the city before hosting a celebration at noon at Zinn Park, located at 101 West 14 th Street. Anniston holds the title of “Tree City USA,” a distinc- tion given to cities, large and small, across the nation that have committed to investing in their trees. It is because of this recogni- tion and the City’s dedication to providing all citizens with an environment conducive to growth and prosperity that crepe myrtles, dogwoods, river birch, oak, maple, and cherry trees will be given away to local residents at Thursday’s Arbor Day celebration. NOBLE STREET FESTIVAL Each spring Annis- ton’s Noble Street Festival makes its mark in the commu- A QUARTERLY CITY NEWSLETTER The A nniston PROGRESS Inside this Issue ONE STOP SHOP: CITY HALL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ROAD & TRAIL PROJECTS 2015 EVENT CALENDAR SPRING 2015 continued on page 4 ...

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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.

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Page 1: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:

Say ‘he l l o ’ to spring

ANNISTON CITY COUNCILMayor Vaughn Stewart(256) [email protected] Jay JenkinS WArd 1(256) [email protected] DaViD reDDick WArd 2(256) [email protected] Seyram SelaSe ward 3(256) [email protected] millie harriS ward 4(256) [email protected] managerBrian Johnson(256) [email protected]

STAY CONNECTEdWEbSITE: www.annistonal.govFACEbOOk: /thecityofannistonTWITTEr: @annistonalgovINSTAgrAm: helloanniston

Art by: Diamond Lunsford Grade: Pre-K Academy Teacher: Mrs. Kimberly Ireland School: Randolph Park Elementary

The City of Anniston is gearing up for the best

spring has to offer with exciting events and activities for the whole family. The following events have served as annual staples for the community and continue to provide quality of life oppor-tunities for all Annistonians. Whether it’s a bike ride, the sampling of delicious food, the planting of new trees, or just seeing old friends again, Anniston’s got it this spring.

Arbor DAy 2015This year’s Arbor Day cele-bration will serve as a green way to kick off the beginning of a blossoming season.

Arbor Day, first held in 1872, is a day dedicated to the pub-lic planting of trees in com-munities across the country.

It is held nationally on the last day in April, yet state Arbor Day dates vary according to their best tree-planting times.

Alabama observes Arbor Day during the last full week of February, and on Thursday, Feb. 26 the City of Anniston will plant willow oak trees at schools across the city before hosting a celebration at noon at Zinn Park, located at 101 West 14th Street.

Anniston holds the title of “Tree City USA,” a distinc-tion given to cities, large and small, across the nation that

have committed to investing in their trees.

It is because of this recogni-tion and the City’s dedication to providing all citizens with an environment conducive to growth and prosperity that crepe myrtles, dogwoods, river birch, oak, maple, and cherry trees will be given away to local residents at Thursday’s Arbor Day celebration.

Noble Street FeStivAlEach spring Annis-ton’s Noble Street Festival makes its mark in the commu-

A Q u A r t e r l y C i t y N e w S l e t t e rThe Anniston PROGRESS

Inside this IssueONE StOP SHOP: CItY HALL

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENt

ROAD & tRAIL PROjECtS

2015 EVENt CALENDAR

SPriNG 2015

continued on page 4 ...

Page 2: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:
Page 3: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:

THE MODEL CITY 3

A Letter from WArd 1 Councilman Jay JenkinsSpring is in the air and with it

comes the smell of fresh flowers and new asphalt.

That’s right, asphalt.

Over the coming months, residents will see the completion of Pappy Dunn Boulevard within our McClel-lan Industrial Park, the ongoing work on the new bypass (scheduled for completion in late summer 2015), re-lease of bids for the extension of Iron Mountain Road in June, the hopeful approval of plans by the Alabama De-partment of Transportation (ALDOT) for Eglin Avenue Improvements (also McClellan Industrial Park), along with repaving initiatives in sever-al areas of Anniston, most notably Quintard Avenue and Greenbrier Dear Road.

Not to be left out, preliminary engi-neering has begun on the extension of Chief Ladiga Trail up to Baltzell Gate Road, with funding in place and property evaluation underway both for extension and continuation of spur into McClellan.

The new Wellness Park located along the rail bed between 13th and 17th Streets will see its completion along with a connection to the Carver Community Center.

And get ready to cheer on your favor-ite cycling team in the Sunny King Criterium with riders from all over the world descending on our fair city March 28 to see who can get a leg up in this national points race through the streets of downtown.

And it’s not just cycling, as the at-tached festival caters to all, with rides for children, food from area restau-rants, good music, fun and crafts. The night before the race, the city is again sponsoring its Model City Music Festival, with a headlining act that is sure to please.

And don’t forget to get outside and get some exercise. Sign up for the City’s Parks & Recreation Department (PARD) soccer in the premier youth soccer program in our area, with over 400 other players and a bevy of qual-ified coaches all directed by Darren Spruill, our athletic director.

Or hit the links at either of our courses, Cane Creek or the Hill. Our golf course man-ager Kenny Szuch and his staff have the plac-es looking spectacular. FootGolf is now available at the Hill as well. If you visit Cane Creek, stop in to the Cane Creek Grill restaurant and see the changes coming about there.

And as always, if you see an issue in your neighborhood that needs city attention, please do not be afraid to pick up the phone or send an email. We are all here to serve.

Jay JenkinsCouncilman, Ward [email protected](256) 310-2648

The Anniston City Council will hold its formal Council Meetings every 1st & 3rd Monday of each

month at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall, located at 1128 Gurnee Ave. There will be a pre-meeting held at 5 p.m. prior to the formal Council Meeting. These dates are subject to change.

JanUaRy Jan. 20th

FeBRUaRy: Feb. 2nd & Feb. 16th

MaRCH: March 2nd & March 16th

aPRiL: April 6th & April 20th

May: May 4th & May 18th

JUne: June 1st & June 15th

JULy: July 6th & July 20th

aUGUsT: Aug. 3rd & Aug. 17th

sePTeMBeR: sept. 7th & sept. 21st

OCTOBeR: oct. 5th & oct. 19th

nOVeMBeR: nov. 2nd & nov. 16th

DeCeMBeR: Dec. 7th & Dec. 21st

A

ATHe PROGRess Anniston City CounCiL

2015 sCHeDULe of Anniston City Council Meetings

Page 4: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:

THE MODEL CITY4

Say ‘hello’ to SPriNG ...continued from page 1

nity by drawing cyclists ... from around the world, and pulling large crowds of spectators into historic downtown Anniston.

This year’s festival will start on Saturday, March 28 with the Sunny King Criteri-um. Back-to-back races are expected well into the evening when Pro Men and Pro Women take the course. For more information about the Sunny King Criterium, visit www.usacycling.org.

Local restaurants will pro-vide á la carte menus for the much-anticipated “Taste on Noble” event that welcomes outdoor dining while enjoy-ing fun downtown activities, live music, arts & crafts, and of course—the fast-paced bike races. For more infor-mation about Noble Street Festival visit www.anniston-cycling.com.

The DownTown MarkeTWhile at the Noble Street Festival, remember to start fresh in Anniston at The Downtown Market where locally-grown fresh crops will be readily available for cyclists, spectators, visi-tors, residents, families and friends.

The market will be open from 7 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 28, on the top parking deck of Wilmer Avenue and Eighth Street for the festival. The market will remain open for 28 Saturdays through October 31 behind Anniston City Hall, starting Saturday, April 4. For more information about the market, call (256) 624-7172, or email [email protected], or visit www.annistonmar-ket.com.

22nD annual Iron MounTaIn Chal-lengePreviously known as the Woodland-Calhoun Centu-ry Challenge, the 22nd annu-al Iron Mountain Challenge will take place at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 28.

This non-competitive bike ride starts at the Anniston Aquatics & Fitness Center, located at 130 Summerall Gate Road on McClellan. Registration is available online, or on the day of the race at 6:30 a.m. on March 28 at the race site. For more information, visit www.ironmountainchallenge.com.

Be sure to check for any traffic advisory updates as the time for walking, running, and cycling events near, at www.annistonal.gov.

eCOnOMiC development: C i t y’s h A r d Wo r k r e s u Lts i n $60 M i l l i o n o f o n g o i n g i n v e s tM e n tsAfter coming face-to-face with the stark realization that every single eco-nomic initiative needed to be seized, the City put a plan in to action that included the hiring of an in-house economic developer.

Since that time, nearly $60 million has been invested in to Anniston.

This announcement came during the second half of 2014, with capital investments being spread out amongst three of the most significant employers in Anniston.

“The obvious takeaway here is that we have many companies and organiza-tions that like doing business in Annis-ton, three of which are the Department of Homeland Security, New Flyer, and International Automotive Com-ponents,” said Eric Basinger, director of Economic Development. “This is a

testament to the strength of our work-force in Anniston and the quality of infrastructure that the City of Anniston is able to offer to businesses.”

The City has supported and influenced these expansions through tax abate-ments for the manufacturers and by in-vesting in infrastructure at McClellan.

“The year 2014 was a banner year for new investment in the City of An-niston,” said Mayor Vaughn Stew-

art. “Considering that more than 80 percent of new jobs come from our ex-isting companies, having three of our largest employers invest these kinds of dollars in their operations in Anniston is special.”

Because construction is not 100 percent complete on all three of these investments, Anniston will continue to receive some of the impact from construction well into 2015.

sUnny kinG CRiTeRiUMsaturday, March 28

22nD annUaL iROn MOUnTain CHaLLenGesaturday, March 28

FORT MCCLeLLan ROaD RaCesunday, March 29

CHeaHa CHaLLenGe GRan FOnDOsunday, May 17

ATHe PROGRess eConoMiC deveLopMent

Company/organIzatIon new Jobs retaIned Jobs CapItal Investment

department of Homeland security 817 $21,500,000

new Flyer 650 $13,094,320

International automotive Components 400 270 $22,000,000

ToTals 400 1737 $56,594,320

CyCLinG eVenTroundup

Page 5: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:

THE MODEL CITY 5

One-sTOP sHOP: open for Business

Enter City Hall at 1128 Gurnee Ave.

Look right, and you’ll see the Department of Planning & Development Services. Look left, and you’ll see a window where business licenses are readily available.

In just a few steps you have entered City Hall’s main lobby, and opened the door to your One-stop Shop for doing business in the City of Anniston.

The logic behind the lobby setup is simple: it provides a centralized area for coordination.

“It saves time and it eliminates confu-sion,” said Toby Bennington, director of the Department of Planning & Devel-opment Services. “If we don’t have an answer immediately, our staff knows how to get the answer.”

Although resources such as Anniston Water Works, Alabama Power, and Alagasco may not physically be in the building, they are one phone call away for the Planning & Development Services staff.

“We can further assist with development planning for our local Economic Devel-opment Department and director, the Calhoun County Economic Development Council, and the McClellan Development Authority,” Bennington said.

“We also interact with local, state, and federal agencies depending on the need.”

Local, state, and federal agencies that the City’s One-stop Shop effectively com-municates and coordinates with include the Alabama Department of Transporta-tion (ALDOT), Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM),

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Federal Aviation Administra-tion (FAA).

The Department of Planning & Devel-opment Services performs business license inspections, rental inspections, zoning verification, interpretation, and approvals, master planning, economic development planning, subdivision planning, commu-nity development planning, transportation planning, and code interpretation, just to name a few.

Since January 2014, when city leaders created the centralized One-stop Shop of resources for doing business, 671 building permits have been issued, and 760 property inspections have been completed, with the initial rental inspection performed free of charge.

In addition to a steady flow of rental inspections, the PDS staff has said that meetings are now held almost daily with architects, engineers, and others working with their clients to develop a residential, commercial, or industrial plan.

Everything from contacts to inspections, to forms and frequently asked questions, to zoning and fees and codes, can also be found on the Planning & Develop-ment Services page on the City’s website www.annistonal.gov. The Department of Planning & Development Services is also accessible via Facebook.

For more information, contact the Department of Planning & Development Services at (256) 231-7720, or via email at [email protected].

eCOnOMiC development: C i t y’s h A r d Wo r k r e s u Lts i n $60 M i l l i o n o f o n g o i n g i n v e s tM e n ts

city Departments

Brian JohnSon, City Manager(256) [email protected]

alan atkinSon, City Clerk(256) [email protected]

SteVen FolkS, PARD Director(256) [email protected]

cory Salley, Director of Finance(256) [email protected]

eric BaSinger, Director of Economic Development (256) [email protected]

tony taylor, Fire Chief(256) [email protected]

Shane Denham, Police Chief(256) [email protected]

toBy Bennington, City Planner, AICP(256) [email protected]

roBert J. Dean, Jr., Public Works Director(256) [email protected]

Company/organIzatIon new Jobs retaIned Jobs CapItal Investment

department of Homeland security 817 $21,500,000

new Flyer 650 $13,094,320

International automotive Components 400 270 $22,000,000

ToTals 400 1737 $56,594,320

to sign up for our enewsletter, contact Public information officer Aziza Jackson at: [email protected]

ATHe PROGRess do Business

Page 6: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:
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CRaCkinG THe CODe of Blight in AnnistonAny textbook definition of the term

blight will point to the disease, decay, and eventual death of—a plant.

The truth is that blight affects much more than plants. It affects our neigh-borhoods and communities, and serves as a glaring reminder of a changing economy and a changing population.

Although vacant and abandoned prop-erties that have fallen in to decay and disrepair are problems affecting cities across the country, here is where it hits home the hardest.

The mission of the City’s Code En-forcement Department is to enhance the quality of life and economy of Anniston by enforcing regulations that preserve and protect neighborhoods.

“Spring is around the corner and so are some positive changes in the code

enforcement department,” said Tana Bryant, Senior Code Enforcement Officer for the City. “We now have two additional code enforcement officers, Bea Vedovato and Jeff Fleming. Both are not new to the City of Anniston and have been well received by the res-idents. We can now be more proactive and less reactive to situations we come across.”

Bryant said that the department’s goal this year is to educate Anniston citizens about city ordinances and to explain how everyone can work together to help beautify the City.

“We want to concentrate on the nui-sance issues around us as well as fight-ing the blight,” Bryant said. “This can be accomplished with your assistance. We are here to take your calls and answer questions. If you are unsure of a situation or whether or not permits are required, for example, call us. Our staff is here to help residents under-stand that if something is addressed before it becomes a violation, it will be easier to deal with and less costly.”

Knowing what can be placed on the curb for pick-up by the City’s brush crew, for example, is one of the biggest areas that the public can help with; some items are not approved for pick-up so knowing what can or cannot be placed out is a must for all residents.

Residents are encouraged to move their garbage can from the right-of-way after it has been serviced. Just that small item can make a huge difference on the way their street looks.

“Each of us has a responsibility to our-selves and our community,” Bryant said.

“The City staff is here to deal with issues but we want the public to know that if we each do our part, we will see tremendous results that we can all be proud of. Let us help you and do not hesitate to ask questions. Call us and we will be happy to come speak to your neighborhood association or group to share our vision for the City of Annis-ton.”

Contact Tana Bryant or the City’s Code Enforcement Department at (256) 231-7733 or at [email protected].

A

“ eACh oF uS hAS A reSPoNSibility to ourSelveS AND our CommuNity,” Bryant said.

THe PROGRess Code enforCeMent

Page 8: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:

THE MODEL CITY8

2015 repAving & resurfACing projeCtsroAD/ProJeCt whAt’S beiNG DoNe? wheN iS it beiNG DoNe?

Alabama Hwy. 21 (Quin-tard Ave.) Americans with Disabilities Act Sidewalk Compliance

Sidewalk Construction and Landscaping

Tentatively scheduled to be completed by the end of January.

Alabama Hwy. 21 (Quintard Ave.) Repaving Project

Milling & Resurfacing from Snow Street to the intersection of U.S. Highway 431 & Alabama Hwy. 21

This project is set to begin once sidewalks are complete (See above). Work for this repaving project will be performed from 6 pm to 6 a.m.

Anniston Eastern Bypass Base & Paving Completion is set for summer of 2015.

Elgin Avenue Widening, Resurfacing, Restriping with Minor Drainage Improvements from Iron Mountain Road to Goode Road

Completion date is TBD by the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT).

Golden Springs Road Milling, Resurfacing, Restriping

The completion date for the resurfacing of Golden Springs Road from I-20 to Choccolocco Road is TBD upon completion of preliminary engineering and scheduling.

Greenbrier Dear Road Milling, Resurfacing, Restriping from Christine Avenue to Hillyer Robinson Industrial Parkway

Preliminary engineering and signage has begun on this project that will take an estimated 70 working days to complete. Due to weather and temperature conditions, the pavement construction will not begin until March 2015.

Hillcrest Road Engineer-ing Services

Widening, Resurfacing, Restriping

Surveying and preliminary engineering is ongoing and awaiting permit process from ALDOT.

Iron Mountain Road Extension

Base, Drainage, Paving The construction of ±2 miles of new roadway from Pappy Dunn Industrial Boulevard to Alabama Hwy. 21 is tentatively scheduled to be let in summer 2015.

Pappy Dunn Industrial Boulevard

Base, Drainage, Paving Completion for the reconstruction of ±0.75 miles of roadway from Iron Mountain Road to Bains Gap Road is set for April 2015.

2015 BiC yCLe & pedestriAn iMproveMentsChieF lADiGA trAilCompletion date is TBD upon completion of preliminary engineering and scheduling, that includes environmental review, boundary review, trail engineering and concept design and the development of a project description map.

Ft. mCClellAN SPurCompletion is set for spring 2015. The work for this project includes preliminary engineering design, construction documents and the eventual surface development from the existing ROW to AL 21. Part of this process will include evaluating

locations for the continuation of Bicycle/Pedestrian lanes and share-the-road opportunities on Ft. McClellan.

Noble Street & Fourth Street iNterSeCtioN imProvemeNtSStriping & SignageCompletion date is TBD upon completion of preliminary engineering and scheduling.

Street imProvemeNtS Striping, Signage, & Construction for bicycle parking racks(*)

Completion date is TBD upon completion of preliminary engineering and scheduling of the following: • Clydesdale Street • 11th Street * • 14th Street • Fourth Street* • Noble Street* • 18th Street* • Cobb Avenue*

weSt ANNiStoN well-NeSS PArk ProJeCtThe City of Anniston broke new ground for the West Anniston Wellness Park on Thursday, Nov. 6

at Carver Park & Community Center, located at 720 West 14th Street. Completion is set for spring 2015. New construction of the following is currently underway:

1/6 mile track at Carver Park

Approximately 1100’ x 5’ wide concrete sidewalk with exercise stations at Carver Park

Approximately 1600’ x 8’ wide concrete sidewalk with exercise stations from 13th Street to 17th Street

ATHe PROGRess roAds & trAiLs

Page 9: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:

THE MODEL CITY 9

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed

a proclamation which designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day. The week of that date is recognized as National Police Week. Currently, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world converge on Washington, D.C. to participate in a number of planned events that honor those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

The memorial service began in 1982 as a gathering in Senate Park of approximately 120 survivors and supporters of law enforcement.

National Police Week draws in between 25,000 to 40,000 attendees. Attendees come from departments throughout the United States and from agencies throughout the world. This provides a unique opportunity to meet others that share a common brotherhood. Officers from the Anniston Police

Department have participated in National Police Week memorial services to honor officers killed in the line of duty.

“The Anniston Police Department has 15 fallen officers’ names inscribed on the Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C.,” said APD Capt. Allen George. “We also have a marble wall in the lobby of the Justin Sollohub Justice Center that contains the names of our fallen officers.”

Join the Anniston Police Department in recognizing Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15, and National Police Week from Monday, May 11 to Friday, May 15.

In the event of a fire, properly installed and

maintained smoke alarms will provide an early warning alarm to your household. The Anniston Fire Department would like the community to know that this alarm could save lives and the lives of loved ones. Below are some important tips about what you need to know about smoke alarms:

tyPeSIonization smoke alarms sound more quickly when a flaming, fast-moving fire occurs. Photoelectric smoke alarms are quicker at sensing smol dering, smoky fires.Combination smoke alarms combine ionization and photoelectric into one unit, called dual-sensor smoke alarms. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends the installation of dual-sensor smoke alarms because both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms are better at

detecting distinctly different yet potentially fatal fires.

where to Put themInstall smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside sleeping areas.

Since smoke and many deadly gases arise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

For more information on smoke alarms, visit www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/.

nAtionAL poLiCe Week sMoke deteCtor sAfety

pArks & reCreAtion (PaRD)

ATHe PROGRess puBLiC sAfety

uPComiNG PArD reGiStrAtioNPARD’s Athletics division will be conducting registration for T-ball, Pitching Machine Baseball, Base-ball, T.O.T. Soccer and Spring Soccer for the entire month of February.

A coaches’ meeting, along with team selection, will take place the first week in March; practices will begin immediately after teams have been selected.

Registration will go as follows:

T-ball/Pitching Machine- $25 (includes hat, t-shirt, pants and socks)

Dixie Youth Baseball- $50 (in-cludes hat, jersey, pants and socks)

T.O.T. Soccer- $35 (includes t-shirt and soccer ball)

Spring Soccer- $60 (includes jersey, shorts and socks)

The City of Anniston is also adding a few more sports in the spring. In March we will begin registration for spring Flag Football as well as a new Kickball League.

For more information contact Darren Spruill at (256) 820-3860 or [email protected]

PArD Summer CAmPSThe City of Anniston offers three separate summer day camps at the Aquatic & Fitness Center, Norwood Hodges Community Center, and Wiggins Communi-ty Center. Designed for school children ages five to 12, these camps are packed with activities including: nature and science, swimming, drama, contests, cooking, games, arts & crafts, field trips, sports, and much more. Camp fees for Anniston City residents are $45 per week per child. Weekly fees for non-resi-dents are $50 per week per child. A daily fee is offered for $12 per

child. There is a registration fee of $20. The camps begin at 7 a.m. and end at 5:30 p.m. from Monday through Friday. There are 12 action-packed weeks planned for campers starting Tuesday, May 26th. Registration information will be delivered to local schools in mid-April, and available on the City’s website at www.annistonal.gov.

Page 10: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:

Signs of a heart attack are rarely this obvious.

Nationally Accredited Chest Pain Center

During a heart attack, every minute matters. So, know the warning signs.

If you experience them, call 911. And count on the Nationally Accredited

Chest Pain Center at Stringfellow Memorial Hospital.

StringfellowMemorial.com

82895_STRI_Q1HAWS_16_5x10_75cSPRD.indd All Pages 1/29/15 5:58 PM

Page 11: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:

Signs of a heart attack are rarely this obvious.

Nationally Accredited Chest Pain Center

During a heart attack, every minute matters. So, know the warning signs.

If you experience them, call 911. And count on the Nationally Accredited

Chest Pain Center at Stringfellow Memorial Hospital.

StringfellowMemorial.com

82895_STRI_Q1HAWS_16_5x10_75cSPRD.indd All Pages 1/29/15 5:58 PM

Page 12: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:

THE MODEL CITY12

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 2 3 4 5 6Scholarship DeadlineCalhoun County Soil & Water Conservation District

7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30 31

MarchScholarship DeadlineCommunity Foundation of Northeast Alabamawww.yourcommunityfirst.org

The Anniston Progress Community Calendar is tentative. Please contact the event’s location di-rectly, or visit the City’s Events Calendar at www.annistonal.gov for the most updated information.

FebruarySta-Fit Zumba & Dance FitnessFeb. 23, 24 & 265:30 p.m.Norwood Hodges Community Center

Home School Day at the Museums in Lagarde ParkFeb. 2510 a.m.Anniston Museum of Natural History/Berman Museum

Kids’ Craft DayFeb. 25Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun County

Arbor Day 2015Feb. 2612 p.m.-2 p.m.Zinn Park

Chinese New Year Celebration: Year of the SheepFeb. 2810 a.m.Berman Museum

ONGOING EVENTS IN MARCHCrochet & Knit Class March 2, 16 & 30 3 p.m. Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun CountyMonday Movie March 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 12 p.m. Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun CountyTuesday Storytime March 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 10 a.m. Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun CountySwim Lessons March 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24 & 26 Times vary Anniston Aquatics & Fitness CenterMoney Smart March 5, 12 & 19 12 p.m. Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun CountyCardio Tennis March 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28 Times vary Norwood Hodges Community CenterSta-Fit Zumba & Dance Fitness March 16, 17, 19, 23, 24, 26, 30 & 31 5:30 p.m. Norwood Hodges Community CenterSchools are Closed March 23-27 Anniston City School SystemSpring Break Madness March 23-27 1 p.m. Carver Community CenterSpring Break Madness March 23-27 1 p.m. South Highland Community CenterRed Cross Lifeguard Certification Session 1 March 24-26 8 a.m. Anniston Aquatics & Fitness Center

THE 2015SPRING CALENDER

The DownTown MarkeTWhile at the Noble Street Festival, remember to start fresh in Anniston at The Downtown Market where locally-grown fresh crops will be readily available for cyclists, spectators, visitors, residents, families and friends.

The market will be open from 7 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 28, on the top parking deck of Wilmer Avenue and Eighth Street for the festival. The market will remain open for 28 Saturdays through October 31 behind Anniston City Hall, starting Saturday, April 4. For more information about the mar-ket, call (256) 624-7172, or email [email protected], or visit www.annistonmarket.com.

Summer Youth Employment Job Fair5 p.m.Carver Community Center

Early Release/PDAnniston City School System

Fancy Nancy Tea Party: Ages 6 & Under4 p.m.Public Library of Anniston-Cal-houn County

Community BingoWiggins Community Center Fancy Nancy Tea Party:

Ages 7 & up4 p.m.Public Library of Annis-ton-Calhoun County

Kiddie Dances13-MarWiggins Community Center

22nd Annual Iron Mountain Challenge7:30 a.m.Anniston Aquatics & Fitness Center

Report Cards IssuedAnniston City School System

A Cappella Choir Concert3 p.m.First United Methodist Church

Kids’ Craft DayPublic Library of Annis-ton-Calhoun County

Registration DeadlineUpcoming trips with Doris Hann

Kid’s Day Out 8 a.m.Wiggins Community Center

The Downtown MarketMar. 287 a.m.Top parking deck of Wilmer Avenue & Eighth Street

Noble Street FestivalHistoric Downtown Anniston

Fort McClellan Road Race9 a.m.Bains Gap Road

Youth Track & Field Training Begins March 30Afterschool Carver Community Center/Nor-wood Hodges Community Center/South Highland Community Center/Wiggins Community Center

Page 13: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:

THE MODEL CITY 13

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY1 2 3 4

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SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY1 2

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10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

April

May

ONGOING EVENTS IN MARCHCrochet & Knit Class March 2, 16 & 30 3 p.m. Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun CountyMonday Movie March 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 12 p.m. Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun CountyTuesday Storytime March 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 10 a.m. Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun CountySwim Lessons March 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24 & 26 Times vary Anniston Aquatics & Fitness CenterMoney Smart March 5, 12 & 19 12 p.m. Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun CountyCardio Tennis March 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28 Times vary Norwood Hodges Community CenterSta-Fit Zumba & Dance Fitness March 16, 17, 19, 23, 24, 26, 30 & 31 5:30 p.m. Norwood Hodges Community CenterSchools are Closed March 23-27 Anniston City School SystemSpring Break Madness March 23-27 1 p.m. Carver Community CenterSpring Break Madness March 23-27 1 p.m. South Highland Community CenterRed Cross Lifeguard Certification Session 1 March 24-26 8 a.m. Anniston Aquatics & Fitness Center

ONGOING EVENTS IN APRILCommunity Garden April 1-30 Carver Community CenterSta-Fit Zumba & Dance Fitness April 2, 6, 7, 9, 13, 14, 16, 20, 21, 23, 27, 28 & 30 5:30 p.m. Norwood Hodges Community CenterCardio Tennis April 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24 & 25 Times vary Norwood Hodges Community CenterThe Downtown Market April 4, 11, 18 & 25 7 a.m. Behind Anniston City HallMonday Movie April 6, 13, 20 & 27 12 p.m. Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun CountyTuesday Storytime April 7, 14, 21 & 28 10 a.m. Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun CountyRed Cross Lifeguard Certification Session 2 April 9-12 Times vary Anniston Aquatics & Fitness Center

Kids’ Craft DayPublic Library of Annis-ton-Calhoun County

Good Friday

Scholarship DeadlineThe West Anniston Foundation

Kiddie Dances6 p.m.Wiggins Community Center

AnniConAnniston City Meeting Center

Kids Chief Ladiga Trail Fun Ride9 a.m.Anniston Trailhead

Earth Day CelebrationAnniston Museum of Natural History

Crochet & Knit Class3 p.m. atPublic Library of Anniston-Calhoun County

Early Release/PDAnniston City School System

Progress Reports issuedAnniston City School System

Community BingoWiggins Community Center

Bring on Spring 5K Run & Y Healthy Kids Day®8 a.m.

Anniston YMCAYouth Track & Field City Meet@ 9:30 a.m.Youth Sports Complex

ONGOING EVENTS IN MAYCardio Tennis May 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 & 30 Times vary Norwood Hodges Community CenterThe Downtown Market May 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 7 a.m. Behind Anniston City HallMonday Movie May 4, 11, 18 & 25 12 p.m. Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun CountyTuesday Storytime May 5, 12, 19 & 26 10 a.m. Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun County

Early Release/PDAnniston City School System

Kiddie Dances6 p.m.Wiggins Community Center

Kids’ Business Fair9 a.m.Norwood Hodges Community Center

Community BingoWiggins Community Center

Memorial DayCheck www.annistonal.gov for a listing of Memorial Day closings

PARD Summer CampsBeginning in May7 a.m.Anniston Aquatic & Fitness Center/Norwood Hodges Community Center/Wiggins Community Center

Kids’ Craft DayPublic Library of Annis-ton-Calhoun County

Report Cards IssuedAnniston City School System

Page 14: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:

14

WesT annisTOn Wellness Park & TrailAfter breaking new

ground for the West Anniston Wellness Park on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2014 the City has been working non-stop to see this project come to fruition and can confirm that it is now 70 percent complete.

The site of November’s groundbreaking ceremony at Carver Park and Com-munity Center, located at 720 West 14th Street is the starting point for the proj-ect’s construction that will continue along the aban-doned railroad right-of-way and end at West 17th Street.

At Carver Park, across from Cobb Elementary School, the existing walking track has been removed, and con-struction of a new parking area, walking path and track is currently underway.

Ultimately, the park will connect to a wellness trail via a network of sidewalks and bike lanes; the wellness trail will consist of a wide, landscaped, gently wind-ing concrete path that will include lighting, benches and exercise stations along the way.

Other upgrades to the park include the addition of exer-cise stations and refurbish-ing of the existing pavilion.

The project is being fund-ed with $437,000 of U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Com-munity Development Block Grant entitlement funds through the City of Annis-ton’s Community Develop-ment Department.

The West Anniston Wellness Park is just one facet of the West Anniston Master Plan that was approved by the Anniston City Council on April 28, 2014.

Residents, business own-ers, and property owners in West Anniston, in addition to representatives from the Anniston Housing Authority and Anniston City School System, all contributed to the plan that focused on im-

proving the quality of life of citizens in the West Anniston community.

The project is set for completion in April 2015. Updates regarding the dedication ceremony will be available atwww.annistonal.gov.

ATHe PROGRess QuALity of Life

*Contact our community centers for a full listing of activities & events.

Aquatics & Fitness Center, 130 Summerall Gate Road (256) 847-7349Red Cross Lifeguard Certi-ficationSession 1: Tuesday, March 24 to Thursday, March 26 8 a.m.to 5 p.m. Session 2: Thursday, April 9 to Sunday, April 12 (9th and 10th from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and 11th and 12th from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Class fee: $200

Swim Lessons Tuesday, March 3rd to Tues-day, March 26 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. 6 p.m. Ages 6 months-3 years 6:30 p.m. Ages 4-5 years 7 p.m. Ages 6-12 years 7:30 p.m. Ages 13Class fee: $40

Carver Community Center, 720 West 14th Street (256) 231-7630Summer Youth Employment Job FairTuesday, March 3 at 5 p.m.

Norwood Hodges Community Center, 3125 Spring Valley Rd (256) 231-7627 Kids’ Business FairSaturday, May 9 at 9 a.m.

South Highland Community Center, 229 South Allen Avenue (256) 231-7659Spring Break MadnessMonday, March 23 to Friday, March 27 beginning at 1 p.m.

Wiggins Community Center, 2202 West 17th Street (256) 231-7628Kid’s Day Out

Children will enjoy a day of fun-filled activities at Wig-gins Community Center that include educational

games, trivia, a variety of athletic games, and a field trip all in one day.

Friday, March 27 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cost: $15 per child

CHeCk OUT WHAT’S HAPPENING IN PARD THIS SPRING

Page 15: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:
Page 16: The Anniston Progress.:Spring2015:

Dear Friends,This is the first edition of the new City of Anniston newsletter. The

purpose of this publication is to improve the level of public information on the pro-grams, services, and activity of the city. The newsletter will be published four times each year, and delivered by mail to every residen-tial and business address in Anniston.Each edition of the newsletter will contain articles about current City projects and hap-penings, and a number of regular features. Articles are contributed by the both city staff members and members of the community.The goal of the newsletter is to provide an enjoyable and informative newsletter to the residents and friends of Anniston. An in-formed citizenry is an active and engaged citizenry. We want Annistonians to hear about our plans to revitalize the city straight from the source, rather than rely on rumors.Most importantly, this is your newsletter. Please give us your comments and let us know the types of things you would like to see in it.We hope you enjoy!Onward,Mayor Vaughn Stewart

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