Columbiana Living Spring 2026

columbiana living

Nostalgic notions

Columbiana native Peg Hill recalls her journey to education

Kasey Youngblood fills her Main Street shop with handpicked gifts

• Are you turning 65?

• Would you like more benefits at no additional cost?

• Do you qualify for your Part B premium to be paid by the state?

• Are you struggling to pay for your medications?

• What is the right option for you?

I can meet you at your doctor’s office, your home, or a coffee shop.

I am a passionate independent

My

and

remembers her childhood and how it led her to Shelby County Schools.

Kasey Youngblood offers thoughtful gifts at Dwell and Flourish on Columbiana Main Street.

city leadership

5 Mayor Lisa Davis reflects on her first few months in office and continued commitment to transparency.

arts & culture

6 The Guide: Learn about everything happening in Columbiana throughout March, April and May.

11 See the latest happenings from the Shelby County Arts Council here in Columbiana with great upcoming events

schools & sports

12 Get to know Shelby County High School senior Cale Blevins as he balances baseball and education.

14 Meet CTEC instructor Robert Irwin as he guides students to a future career in the automotive industry.

meet your neighbors

28 Familiarize yourself with Main Street’s executive director.

30 Enjoy a spread of photos from the exciting Shelby County Extreme Bulls Rodeo.

36 My Columbiana: Leslie Belk highlights her favorite locations and businesses.

columbiana living

EDITORIAL

Michaela Bankston

Dave Domescik

Daniel Locke

Anna Grace Moore

Tyler Raley

Andrew Simonson

Noah Wortham

DESIGN

Sydney Allen

Jamie Dawkins

Rowan Futrell

Morgan Lockhart

Lavens Maginnis

MARKETING

Noah Brakefield

Evann Campbell

Octavia Campbell

Rachel Henderson

Rhett McCreight

Lauren Morris

Tori Smith

ADMINISTRATION

Anna Marie Cleckler

Mary Jo Eskridge

Alec Etheredge

Stacey Meadows

Kayla Reeves

Leslie Reeves

Brittany Schofield

notions

WWith the arrival of March, the weather is finally starting to warm back up, and with it comes the start of events in Shelby County.

I am happy to present our sixth installment of Columbiana Living with this Spring issue, packed with familiar faces and new ones, as we deliver a publication that spotlights Shelby County’s seat—and why it so deservedly has that title. We are thrilled each quarter to be able to deliver to you real stories about your neighbors and how they are making a difference in the community through their roles as teachers, politicians, athletes, entrepreneurs and artists.

As someone who’s covered the city of Columbiana for several years, I’ve already had the great fortune of getting to know Peg Hill, former educator and current Board of Education member. If there is a major event, a funeral or even a house party, you can expect to see Peg there in the center of the crowd, talking to everyone and regaling them with stories of the past. If you need to find someone, chances are Peg knows them, and that’s why we are happy to feature her in this issue.

Dwell and Flourish on Columbiana is one of the city’s newer businesses, but step inside, and you’ll see a familiar face—one that grew up here and continues to invest in her hometown. I enjoyed the opportunity to join Kasey Youngblood at her business for a look at what separates Dwell and Flourish from other businesses. Learn about her journey as a business owner alongside photos of the store’s cozy interior.

In this Spring issue, we also spotlight two standouts from Columbiana schools with Q&As from Career Technical Education Center teacher Robert Irwin, as well as Shelby County High School senior varsity baseball player Cale Blevins.

Meet Columbiana Main Street’s new full-time executive director Dee Starkey, in a special Q&A in this issue and learn how she intends to bring her years of experience to our town. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Dee in the past in Calera and look forward to seeing what she’ll accomplish for Columbiana.

This city is full of history, and so are so many of the faces walking down Main Street. We hope we’ve captured that authentic spirit and charm in this issue and with each publication we continue to deliver. If you have any suggestions as we begin work on our Summer edition, please send me an email at the email address below.

noah.wortham@shelbycountyreporter.com

Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to:

Editor, Shelby County Newspapers, Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Please email advertise@shelbycountyreporter.com for advertising inquiries.

a letter from the mayor

Well, this is month five of learning all the things city government. I’m so appreciative of the patience and knowledge from our staff. You all have no idea what a vital part each of them plays in making our city run smoothly. It’s all the things and more much more. We have a great team.

I’ve taken part in many meetings with our staff, as well as so many people just introducing themselves getting reacquainted and letting me know what service they are and what their company does for the city. Some of them are very eager to work with us again. It’s been very informative.

We’re currently reworking some outdated policies and a few ordinances. The personnel board and the planning and zoning board are working very hard. We are in the process of rezoning every parcel in the city that is currently not zoned and getting them properly zoned. That’s been a big job that has needed to be done.

organizations that do such wonderful things here locally, and we all need to support them.

I attended some meetings in Montgomery hosted by our local chambers of commerce and 58 INC that were educational. I attended legislative advocacy day in January. That’s a great opportunity for me to learn and meet other municipality leaders as well as some of our local legislative delegates and special speaker Katie Britt.

Mayor

Lisa Strickland Davis

I’m so appreciative of the patience and knowledge from our staff. You all have no idea what a vital part each of them plays in making our city run smoothly.

We’ve had a filming company in town working on a project putting a children’s book to film. They filmed at Leaders’ Corner Coffee and Tea and Magnolia Manor. That’s exciting for our city to be a destination for the film industry.

We had another charming, beautiful Christmas season here in town. Christmas is a special time in Columbiana.

I have participated in some senior mock interviews at Calera high school and at Shelby County High School. It’s encouraging to see how prepared some of the students are and how focused they are on their futures.

We had a ribbon-cutting for Blanket Fort Hope. It’s a nonprofit here in Columbiana that helps children and adults transition and give them support after human trafficking. The city made a proclamation making January 2026 Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Columbiana is lucky to have several nonprofit

Over the last few months, many people have brought awareness of food insecurity to our community, and I really appreciate everyone coming together to meet the needs of so many people. Our food boxes seem to be fully stocked most of the time. It’s amazing how a small community can make such a big impact and when people see a need, they step up.

I have had several informative meetings with representatives from Digi Power X and have gotten a lot of information moving forward with the data center here in Columbiana. The town hall was a success in my opinion. We had a great turnout, and I appreciate that there are so many people that care deeply about this community.

My door is always open and the conversation does not end now that the town hall is over. There will still be more opportunities for updates, questions and accountability.

We hope to see everyone come out for the upcoming events across the city.

I am thankful to be feeling more comfortable in my role. I’m so thankful for citizens that offer supportive affirmation that we are making a difference and seeing positive changes. Communication is vital and I strive every day to do what’s in the best interest of Columbiana and make you all proud.

Your humble Mayor,

Lisa Strickland Davis, Mayor of Columbiana

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

APRIL 18

10 A.M. TO 12 P.M. Old Mill Square Park

Kids can enjoy the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of vehicles during Columbiana’s annual Touch-A-Truck event.

THE GUIDE

AROUND TOWN

MARCH 2 | 6:30-7:30 P.M.

Beautification Board Meeting Police Department Conference Room

MARCH 2 | 4:30 P.M.

Varsity Baseball – G.W. Carver-Birmingham

Shelby County High School

MARCH 3 | 6-7:30 P.M. City Council meeting Columbiana City Hall

MARCH 7 | 7:30-9:30 P.M.

Matt Schofield 2026 Show Song Theater

MARCH 9 | 4 P.M.

Varsity Baseball – Oak Mountain

Shelby County High School

MARCH 9 | 5:30 P.M.

Varsity Girls Soccer | Northside High School

Shelby County High School

MARCH 9 | 7:15 P.M.

Varsity Boys Soccer – Northside High School

Shelby County High School

MARCH 10 | 4:30 P.M.

Varsity Softball – Sylacauga

Shelby County High School

MARCH 10 | 4:30-5:30 P.M.

Columbiana Water Board Meeting Columbiana Water Board

MARCH 10 | 7 P.M.

Varsity Boys Soccer – Spain Park High School

Shelby County High School

MARCH 12 | 4:30 P.M.

Varsity Softball – Calera

Shelby County High School

MARCH 12 | 6-7:30 P.M.

Planning and Zoning meeting Columbiana City Hall

MARCH 14 | 7:30-9:30 P.M.

Rose Colored Glasses Song Theater

MAY 2

Mother’s Day Brunch

10 A.M.

Four Copper Pennies

The new business Four Copper Pennies will

host an event perfect for moms, daughters, aunts and friends to join together with a Mother’s Day Brunch on May 2 at its location on Main Street. Tickets are $25.

MARCH 14

Rose Colored Glasses

7:30-9:30 P.M. Song Theater

Step back in time to when Saturday nights meant crackling radios, jukebox dreams and the soul of country music during a performance on March 14. Tickets are $30 for all seats.

MARCH 22

Erin Mitchell Band

4-6 P.M.

Song Theater

Enjoy a show from Birmingham-based project, The Erin Mitchell Band, which aims to bring a blend of soul, rock and Americana to the Song Theater on March 22. Tickets are $30 for all seats.

MARCH 7

Matt Schofield 2026 Show

7:30-9:30 P.M. Song Theater

The Matt Schofield Band will be bringing their brand of hard driving blues to the Song Theater in Columbiana on March 7. Schofield is on a tour in the U.S. from the United Kingdom. Tickets are $35 for all seats.

MARCH 16 | 4:30 P.M.

Varsity baseball- Elmore County

Shelby County High School

MARCH 17 | 5:30 P.M.

Varsity Girls Soccer - Indian Springs School

Shelby County High School

MARCH 17 | 6-7:30 P.M. City Council meeting Columbiana City Hall

MARCH 19 | 4:30 P.M.

Varsity Softball – Central School of Clay County

Shelby County High School

MARCH 19 | 7 P.M.

Varsity Boys Soccer –Childersburg High School

Shelby County High School

MARCH 22 | 4-6 P.M.

Erin Mitchell Band Song Theater

MARCH 25 | 7 P.M.

Varsity Baseball – Florence Shelby County High School

MARCH 31 | 6:30-7:30 P.M.

Beautification Board Meeting Police Department Conference Room

MARCH 31 | 4:30 P.M.

Varsity Softball – Briarwood Christian Shelby County High School

APRIL 2 | 4 P.M.

Varsity Baseball – Central School of Clay County Shelby County High School

APRIL 2 | 6:30 P.M.

Varsity Baseball – Central School of Clay County Shelby County High School

APRIL 6 | 6:30-7:30 P.M.

Beautification Board meeting

Police Department Conference Room

MAY 17

Kevin Derryberry Band

4-6 P.M. Song Theater

Listen to a performance from American Christian musician Kevin Derryberry of the band Telluride at the Song Theater. Tickets are $35 for all seats.

MARCH 1

Robin Nance Metz Art Competition Reception

2-4 P.M.

Shelby County Arts Council

Enjoy the closing of the Robin Nance Metz art gallery and a reception on March 1 from 2-4 p.m.

Beyond the tools to stre ngthen your business

Maintaining a business requires the right tools and more. So we leverage a full range of products and decades of professional experience to make sure yours lasts for generations. Not necessarily what you’d expect from a bank, but definitely what you can expect from us. Banking Beyond Expectation.

APRIL 7 | 6-7:30 P.M.

City Council meeting

Columbiana City Hall

April 7 | 7 p.m.

Varsity Boys Soccer – Sipsey Valley High School

Shelby County High School

APRIL 18 | 10 A.M. TO 12 P.M. Touch-a-Truck Old Mill Square Park

MAY 2 | 10 A.M. Mother’s Day Brunch Four Copper Pennies

MAY 21 | 1 P.M.

Final Day of School

Elvin Hill, Columbiana Middle and Shelby County High School

MAY 17 | 4-6 P.M. Kevin Derryberry Band Song Theater

CALE BLEVINS

When did you first start to love baseball?

first started baseball when I was 5 and have always played since then.

What’s your favorite part about the baseball season?

My favorite part of every baseball season is spending time with all of my teammates and friends that I have built around the sport.

How have you grown as a leader ahead of the season?

As an underclassman, I had great seniors to look up to and show me how things worked at Shelby County High School. Now that I am an upperclassman, I try my best to show all those lessons learned to the younger kids.

What’s your favorite part about playing for Shelby County?

My favorite part of playing for Shelby County is the bonds that I have made with players, coaches and teachers. When I continue in life, I know that I will always have someone to go back to for help.

How do you balance school and multiple sports?

With school work every day, I always go home right after practice and do all of my work, or sometimes I will do it in my free time at school.

What do you love to do in your free time?

In my free time, I really enjoy working on cars and trucks with my dad. Right now, we are restoring my square body Chevrolet.

What do you think you’ll miss the most about playing high school baseball?

One of the biggest things that I will miss about high school baseball is the lessons Coach Hamrick has taught me. Another thing I will miss is how enjoyable the game is as a whole and how we have such a good time as a team.

Automotive technology instructor at Career Technical Educational Center

What makes CTEC such a great place to work as a teacher?

CTEC is an amazing place to work. Our campus is very unique since all of the programs need real world facilities to educate our students for today’s workforce. Each of the programs at CTEC are equipped with the equipment and tools necessary to educate our students. The students receive hands on skills and theory training that will prepare them for the career they choose. Our programs are designed as a simulated workplace environment as if they are working in industry.

What is the number one thing you hope to achieve with each class?

My number one goal is to prepare my students to enter the workforce and go to work. There are students that don’t want to go to college or don’t have the means to go to college after high school. My students can take my auto tech program for two years, and I’ll prepare them for a great career and begin it while in high school.

What is your favorite part of being an instructor?

My favorite part of being a teacher is when I encounter a former student after graduation, and they thank me for helping them become successful in the workforce. This puts chills down my spine knowing I’ve helped guide them into a fulfilling career.

Since each educator has their own unique approach, what is it that you try to bring to the classroom each day?

The approach I bring to the classroom is I treat every student as if they are my own son or daughter. I treat them with respect and expect the same in return. I challenge them to the fullest to be the best they can be. It’s not always going to be easy and don’t give up. The learning process is sometimes you have to fail to be successful. It’s part of life.

How do you try to create a learning environment that is both engaging and fun for the students?

I teach a simulated workforce concept at CTEC. Our auto tech shop is set up like a real-world automotive shop, teaching real world in high school prepares them for their future career. Every year we go on a field trip to Royal Automotive in Hoover and my students get to see that our school shop is just like Royals shop.

What led you to becoming a teacher?

Years ago, I attended the GM/ASEP program at what was then Bessemer State Technical College. I was trained by some of the best GM instructors. I didn’t have any future plans of teaching but I could have. I chose to work in industry for 27 years prior to becoming a teacher. The Automotive teaching position came open at CTEC so I decided it was time for a career change and I applied. This was the best career decision I’ve ever made. Teaching young people and preparing them for the workforce is my passion, and I wouldn’t change it for the world.

What do you hope is your students’ one takeaway from their time with you?

I hope all of my students are successful in their future careers whether it’s automobiles, diesel, or any career they choose. I just want my students to be ready to go to work and earn an honest living. I strive to build character, compassion and instill an exemplary work ethic in all of my students.

HOMETOWN HALLWAYS

From P.E. teacher to Board of Education member, Peg Hill continues to inspire in Columbiana.

BY NOAH WORTHAM

On a warm summer night in the 1950s, a young girl and her friends are traveling down Mildred Street in Columbiana when, along the way, they spot a pear tree in a neighbor’s yard. With courage growing in their hearts, the little ones leapt one by one onto the tree, making their way past the glossy green leaves to secure the oval-shaped sweets that were just out of reach. Did they ask for permission before running off with their plunder? No, but it’s okay, after all, everyone in town knew each other.

W“We were eating our pears and didn’t even tell them, but that’s how safe our town was,” Peg Hill said. “The girls would spend the night, and we’d roam the town at night.”

The same children would carry their sleeping bags with them as they traveled about, and they might even engage in a little bit of mischief by rolling a neighbor’s house in toilet paper.

“When we had our spend-the-night parties on one side of town, we took our sleeping bags, and we rolled people’s yards because it was fun back then,” Peg said. “People didn’t complain… It was fun because we had clean fun.”

Each of these small moments still stands out vividly to Peg, who is the living personification of an open book. Each page is filled with a largerthan-life story featuring names and faces ready to be deployed to get a quick laugh at a house party or a heartfelt tear rolling during a funeral.

A DIFFERENT COLUMBIANA

Peg’s ties to the city of Columbiana run deep. Born in 1948 to Wylodine and Elvin Hill, Peg Hill spent her early years raised alongside her older sister Nancy “Nan” Hill and younger brother Mike Hill.

A caretaker watched over the little ones during the day while Wylodine worked part-time at the Shelby County Reporter and Elvin worked at the high school.

“We were all in diapers at one time,” Peg said. “And my dad was an ag (agriculture) teacher. Dad would wash out our diapers in the morning in the bathtub before he walked across the streets to the school and hung them on the line for my mother—that was poverty.”

At first, the family lived in a small, onebedroom house near Mildred Street in

Columbiana, until Mike was born, then further renovations were made.

“It was a one-bedroom, a little bitty bath—you could sit on the commode, put your feet in the tub and wash your hands in the sink,” Peg said. “Then, when my brother came along, they came and added on another bedroom.”

Then all three toddlers shared that one bedroom—at least that’s how it was intended. Oftentimes, the little ones would crawl up into their parents’ bed, leading Wylodine to sleep on the couch because it was too hot.

“You know how kids get scared at night,” Peg said.

Eventually, after Elvin became the principal of the high school, the family moved into a twostory white house by the high school. After Elvin became superintendent, they moved once again to her final childhood home near the football field—that was built by her father, the band director and several teachers at the high school.

“And my dad put me and my brother on the roof to nail down the roof and tiles,” Peg said. “I don’t’ know if we were 10 or 11, but we were still not in high school and my mom would holler…

And all I remember was nailing those nails down with my brother and having a good time.”

Growing up, the Hill kids passed the time through sleepovers at the houses of friends, traveling through the neighborhood without adult supervision, knowing that the neighbors were watching and would not hesitate to let the parents know if they were up to no good.

One special treat for Peg was walking with her grandmother on Saturdays to the movie theater on Main Street—located where Blue Agave is now—to enjoy a film as well as a charm sucker for a nickel and popcorn for a nickel.

“We would sit there and watch the Roy Rogers movies or cartoons,” she said. “That was our treat on Saturdays and in the summers.”

The kids walked each weekday to the Columbiana Academy and then once they were old enough, they switched routes and walked to the high school, where her brother Mike played on the football team, Nan performed as a majorette and Peg played in the band.

“We just had fun,” she said. “That was your social life on Friday night, riding the bus to the ball games or walking over to the basketball games.”

“I was born and raised here, and I’ll probably die here. I don’t plan on moving.”

-Peg Hill

SURROUNDED BY EDUCATION

Peg’s father, Elvin, served as the principal of Elvin Hill Elementary School, her mother, Wylodine, worked as a business teacher and her sister, Nan, worked in education.

With half of her family being educators themselves, it came as no surprise that Peg eventually followed in their footsteps, while her brother, Mike, followed the other side of the family’s calling—politics.

“I loved people, so I knew I wanted to do something with people,” Peg said.

After graduating from Shelby County High School, she went to Alabama College in Montevallo—soon renamed the University of Montevallo during her senior year. After arriving, education was the only thing Peg knew, so she declared herself an elementary education major. As a people-person, she found her time at college

to be a great time, and she was even named the first Miss University of Montevallo.

“I loved it,” Peg said.

As she was exiting university life, Peg didn’t have to apply for a job—thanks to all of the connections she had made. During her senior year, she got a call from the incoming principal of the new Columbiana Middle School, Bertha Cosper. who offered her a job.

“She said I’m going to be the principal (of) the Columbiana Middle School next year, and I need a girls’ P.E. teacher. Aren’t you qualified to do that?’” Peg recalled. “So, I said, ‘Yes, ma’am. I have a minor in it, if they’ll let me teach it.’” She said, ‘Oh, yeah, that’s what I need.’ And she said, ‘Okay, I want you to be the first girls’ P.E. teacher at Columbiana Middle School.’”

The newly formed Columbiana Middle School was formed during reintegration, and Peg’s time teaching there turned out to be formative, leaving

her with many memories.

Peg worked as a P.E. teacher for nine years at CMS before it came time for Mrs. Cosper to retire, and Peg decided she wanted to use her elementary education degree. She got in touch with Anne Head at Elvin Hill Elementary School and got the opportunity to teach second grade during summer school. After teaching for only half a day, she was informed of an opening for a fourth-grade teacher, and she took it.

Peg’s eventual path to administration can all be traced to one fateful day, when an unfortunate

occurrence led her to want to make changes. One day, Peg saw that another teacher was treating one of her students too harshly while paddling them.

“It hurt my heart because I knew how to help him and what I was doing was working,” Peg said. “But she saw him lose his temper and shove somebody, and it wasn’t her job, it was mine.”

Peg vented to another teacher about the issue, and her coworker gave her advice, which set her down the next path.

“She said, ‘Peg, until you move up to be an

administrator, you can never make a change. As long as you’re on a teacher level, you can’t make changes except in children’s lives,” Peg said.

Peg took that advice to heart and went back to the University of Montevallo to obtain her administrative degree before working for a period of time at the BB Comer school as assistant principal over kindergarten through fifth grade.

“I’d never been out of Columbiana, except for Montevallo, and I sure didn’t know anybody in Talladega County and sure didn’t know anything about that school,” Peg said. “I was green behind the ears, but anyway, I went and interviewed with the superintendent and the principal, and they hired me.”

Although it was different, Peg relished the fact that she was out of Shelby County, where people wouldn’t tie her performance to her father’s or her mother’s work.

“It was a blessing,” Peg said. “It caused me to grow up in a hurry.”

During her time away, she also served as assistant principal over K-12 at the school in Winterboro for three years before she began to get homesick. A new principal job opened in Vincent, and Peg applied for it, but didn’t get it.

She then applied for another position and wasn’t able to land it either. Finally, thanks to a connection, Peg landed a job as assistant principal of Thompson Elementary School.

After working in Alabaster for a while, an unexpected opportunity came up. A position for principal opened at Elvin Hill Elementary as Ann Head was retiring, and Peg was able to land the role. She served as principal for seven years until June 2002, when she retired.

With 15 years of experience in K-8 and 17 years of experience in administration for K-12, Peg couldn’t quite sit still and decided to run for the Shelby County Schools Board of Education, and she was subsequently sworn in 2002. She has continued to serve successive terms and is running for reelection.

“I didn’t want to give it up after I retired,” she said. “I still love working with principals and educators and students and giving them the best opportunities available.”

She has no intention of quitting her involvement in the community soon, as far as she is concerned, she’ll never leave Columbiana.

“I was born and raised here, and I’ll probably die here,” Peg said resolutely. “I don’t plan on moving.”

CURATED COMFORTS

Dwell and Flourish blends thoughtful gifts with delicate decor

BY NOAH WORTHAM

LLeaving behind the busy sounds of cars driving down Main Street, an immediate sense of calm envelopes you as you enter Dwell and Flourish. Your senses are greeted by soothing pastels, floral arrangements and a vast array of ornaments. Despite knowing it’s a store, it also feels like home with each item meticulously placed by its owner.

Since opening in August, Dwell and Flourish has made a name for itself amongst the many shops adorning Columbiana Main Street. Columbiana native and owner Kasey Youngblood hopes to offer an intentional collection of items that feature the right gift for any kind of person.

“This is more than just opening a shop, it’s like my version of ministry,” Youngblood said. “This is my way to make the community feel loved. I was born and raised here, and so it was huge for me to be on Main Street and be a part of the community in a bigger way.”

The business is located at 114 South Main Street, Columbiana, AL 35051 and ran by Youngblood and store manager Brooke Markham, who work to assist visitors with finding the right gift or decoration.

Dwell and Flourish provides a variety of items to meet the entertainment needs of customers, whether it be bowls, plates, cake stands, platters or even birthday candles. There are also a host of supplies such as

notepads, napkins and stationary. Those hoping to find unique trinkets to decorate their homes can search for just the right ornament, or customers wanting to buy the perfect gift can peruse the variety of bags, purses, jewelry, vases or figurines.

“I think the coolest part is that what we envisioned for the store is actually happening,” Youngblood said. “I wanted it to be a place where people could come in and feel welcome and find something in their price range. I want people to feel seen and loved when they walk in the store.”

Youngblood said she’s received compliments from visitors on their pricing and has had customers return because they know it’s a good place to find a “grab and go” gift.

“We’ve just had a ton of great feedback saying ‘This is the kind of store that Main Street needed,’ and we wanted to fill a niche and play off of all the other shops too,” Youngblood said. “If we don’t have something that another shop has, then we’re referring people that way.”

While pregnant with her first daughter in 2020, Youngblood found herself amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, looking for something to do—leading her to start her own business. By 2022, her new passion was official with the name Dwell and Flourish as

Youngblood gathered floral arrangements and bouquets for weddings alongside home décor.

“I always saw the business as twofold with one side that is flowers and then also the home and gift side,” Youngblood said.

After a trial run with a small location in front of Prodigy Hair Salon and the opportunity to move back to Columbiana, Youngblood felt that it was the perfect chance to take the business to the next level. After acquiring the new space on Main Street, Youngblood worked alongside the landlord to renovate the inside while also maintaining the historical charm of the old facility.

“I love antiques, and I love historical preservation. So, it was cool that they were able to uncover the original brick and the original hardwoods, because that helped with the feel that I wanted in the store,” she said.

Youngblood continually adjusts the stock of the business in order to match the season and offer a mixture of flowers, gifts and more.

“I want it to feel very thoughtful and intentional and collected,” she said. “Depending on the season, there will be a mix always of home items, giftables, and then we’ll flowers mixed in to some capacity—whether that’s floral prints or actual flowers in our cooler that

are ready made to go.”

As a Columbiana native and a local graduate of Shelby County High School, Youngblood grew up visiting Columbiana Main Street as a child, and after moving away during college, she said that she missed that small-town feel. Now, with her own shop on Main Street, she hopes to offer that charm to both her own family and to the next generation of residents.

“It’s just been cool to, hopefully, be one of the staple shops on Main Street like I went to when I was in school,” she said. “I’m building a little bit of a legacy.”

DEE STARKEY

Columbiana Main Street Executive Director

What about Columbiana Main Street attracted you to this position?

I’ve enjoyed working in Main Street programs and being part of efforts that help downtowns grow and thrive. Living locally in Shelby County makes this role especially meaningful to me. Columbiana has a strong sense of place and community pride, and I’m excited to support Columbiana Main Street through the Main Street Four-Point Approach—Organization, Promotion, Design and Economic Vitality—while helping build on the momentum already happening downtown.

In your experience with Main Street Alabama, what is the most valuable benefit that the program offers?

Main Street Alabama offers many valuable benefits to local downtowns, all of which work together to support long-term success. The most impactful benefit is the Four-Point Approach, which provides a clear, proven framework for revitalization. It helps communities stay balanced and intentional while focusing on preservation-based economic development and locally driven growth.

What is your biggest goal for your first year as executive director?

My biggest goal for the first year is to build strong relationships across the community—bringing together the city, merchants and residents of Columbiana. Creating open communication, trust and collaboration will help ensure that Main Street revitalization is truly community-supported and sustainable.

If you brought a visitor to Columbiana for one day, what are your must-see spots?

I would start the day with breakfast on Main Street at one of our great local spots, then spend time strolling downtown,

shopping in the unique stores and enjoying the beautiful window displays. From there, I’d visit the Shelby County Arts Council to see one of their exhibits, followed by a stop at the Shelby County Museum and Archives to learn more about Columbiana’s rich history. The day would wrap up with a cocktail from one of Columbiana’s establishments in the entertainment district and end with a Main Street event like Sunset Market or Music on Main.

Where did you grow up, and how did that place shape who you are today?

I grew up in Fredericksburg, Virginia, which has a very active historic downtown and Main Street. Downtown was the place you went to shop, attend events and get involved in the community. That experience shaped my appreciation for vibrant downtowns and showed me how important they are in bringing people together.

How do you like to relax and unwind after a busy week?

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, attending local events, shopping downtown, playing games and exploring local culinary experiences. Supporting local businesses is something I genuinely enjoy, even in my downtime.

What originally drew you to community-focused work like Main Street programs?

I’ve always been drawn to community-based work. One of the greatest rewards is finishing a project or event and seeing others enjoy it. Working toward the revitalization of a Main Street district allows communities to experience their downtowns in meaningful ways—much like previous generations did—while creating new memories and traditions for the future.

BLAZING SADDLES

Rodeo enthusiasts were treated to a night of spectacle during the 17th annual Shelby County Extreme Bulls Rodeo in Columbiana Jan. 16-17.

FOR THE REPORTER/JEREMY RAINES

W H A T D O E S

Summer

Ballantrae Golf Club

Jr Golf Camp

June 8-11, Evenings

Registration opens May 1

For ages 5-13 Includes beginner sessions with a Ballantrae Pro daily Also hosting for kids 7-13 Includes instructional days and matches Contact us for more information or register at www pgajrleague com

L O O K L I K E T O Y O U ?

Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena

Summer Break Camps

June 8-12 June 22-26

June 29-July 3 July 6-10

July 13-17 July 20-24

July 27-31

The City of Pelham takes pride in the recreation services it offers to the community, and all of our city-owned facilities provide summer opportunities for children of various ages!

Pelham Racquet Club Jr Tennis Camps

J u n e 1 - 4 , J u n e 8 - 1 1 , J u n e 1 5 - 1 8

Pelham Parks & Recreation Adventure Camp

June 15-19

July 13-17

More than just ice skating! Many activities and excursions to the splash pad, tennis courts & more!

For ages 6-12, 9:00-4:00 p m

Join us this summer at the Pelham Tennis Center! Our tennis pros will lead fun activities and skill-building sessions For ages 5-10 & 11-16 Camps are held Mon-Thurs, 9:00-11:00 a m , and Friday if rained out Beginner or Intermediate

Check for Registration Dates

Campers ages 8-12 will get to experience a stream walk, rock climbing, and hiking, along with several other planned activities Join us for a week of fun under the sun! Spots are limited! 205

www ballantraegolf com

PGA Jr League www pelhamciviccomplex com

BallantraeGC

PelhamCivicComplex (FB) pelhamcivic ice (Insta)

More details can be found on each location’s website & social media provided below! www pelhamracquetclub com pelhamracquetclub

www pelhamalrecreation gov

PelhamParksandRecreation (FB)

(Insta)

Open to children zoned for Shelby County Schools, ages 5-12 (entering kindergarten through completion of 5th grade)

June 1st-July 31st (Closed June 19th and July 3rd)

Monday-Friday - 7:00 am-6:00 pm

Calera Intermediate, Chelsea Park Elementary, Helena Intermediate, Linda Nolen Learning Center, and Oak Mountain Intermediate

$85 Non-Refundable Registration Fee $210/week Full Pay or $185/week for Free/Reduced Lunch & Employee

Financial Aid Available All Skill Levels Welcome!

THEME CAMP: Hogwarts Mystery Rising 2nd-5th Graders June 8th-12th | 9:00am-4:00pm

BLAST CAMP: Most Exotic Bad Guys Resort Hotel Rising 4th - 8th Graders June 15th - 19th 9:30 am - 4:30 pm RMT ON THE ROAD is bringing theatre camps TO YOU!

BLAST CAMP: Wizard of AL Rising 4th - 8th Graders June 8th-12th | 9:30am-4:30pm

TRIPLE THREATS: Pop Hits Rising 1st - 3rd Graders June 15th - 19th 9:00am - 4:00pm

BLAST CAMP: Wizard of AL Rising 4th - 8th Graders July 13th-17th 9:00am - 4:00pm

Marketplace

Automation Personnel Services Hiring

IMMEDIATELY For: Automotive Assembly, General Labor, Production, Clerical, Machine Operator, Quality, Carpentry, Welder, Foundry. Positions In: Calera, Clanton, Pelham, Bessemer, McCalla. Walk-in applications accepted. Clanton (205)280-0002. Pelham (205)4449774.

Bama Concrete Now Hiring:

Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience. CDL Preferred. Competitive Pay. Great Benefits. Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007

Now Hiring For Utility Positions

Starting pay $15.14/ hour Must be able to pass background screen. Please apply at: www.bc.com

Central Alabma Wellness Mental Health Services

Office locations in Calera, Clanton, Pelham, and 280! 205-651-0077 Visit our website to learn more centralalbama wellness.org

Marble Valley Manor. Affordable 1 and 2

Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga.

256-245-6500

•TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V)

•800-548-2546(T/A).

Office Hours:

Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/Employer

Security Guard for Gated Community in North Shelby County Full-time or Part-time. Must have pistol permit. Call Brittany 205-991-4653

Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY

8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedental assisting.com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started!

ETS Restorations & Tree Service

“From street to walls, we do it all”

•Retaining Walls

•Concrete Work

•Demolition

•Landscaping

•Tree Removal

•Tree Trimming

•Bobcat Work

•Hardscapes

•Hauling

FREE ESTIMATES!!! CALL NOW (205)209-7787 (205)683-3257

Hill Brook Manor Apartments

300 Sumner Dr. Calera, AL 35040 205-668-2020

Affordable Living Apartments Available 1 BR for $665/month 2BR for $705/month

Software Engineers

III - eBusiness in Birmingham, AL: Email resume to Motion Industries, Inc. at: mottalentacquisition@ motion.com (Must REF: Job Title in subject line).

Production Engineering Technician – Positions offered by HL Mando America Corporation (Hogansville, GA). Increase first pass yield by improving measurement systems & optimize machining processes. Submit resume to cindy.smith@ hlcompany.com. Reference Job ID: 8445038.

Current Products

Lead Engineer, ACX – positions offered by Autocar, LLC (Center Point, AL). Dev, mnge & mentor current prods engins to rootcause & solve des issues & supp all ACX Refuse engin’g needs on produc line. Must be willing to travel domestically 5%. Please submit resume

to legalcompliance@ gvwgroup.com. Reference job id: 9326335.

Manufacturing Engineer –positions offered by Autocar, LLC (Center Point, AL). Responsible for manufacturing eng’ing, industrial & process eng’ing related functions w/in scope of responsibility at Autocar. Please submit resume to LegalCompliance@ gvwgroup.com. Reference Job ID: 9737474.

P&F COIN

COMPANT:

We Pay The Highest Prices In Town! 561 First St. N, Alabster, AL 35007 “WE BUY & SELL GOLD & SILVER” *Scrap/Broken Jewelry *Gold & Silver Bullion * Sterling Silverware Sets

* Vintage Watches

*And More! Find Us On Facebook! 205-624-3033 admin@ pfcoincompany.com

For All Your Masonry Needs

•Block

•Brick

•Concrete Repair

•Brick Cleaning

•Painting Call 205-643-0729 or email srichardson642@ gmail.com to get your FREE ESTIMATES!

Pelham’s Newest Community!

Tower Homes Community, Huntley Ridge, is nestled conveniently near I-65, I-459 and Highway 31 and is now selling 3BR/2BA homes starting in the $320s. Call today to schedule a showing!

Now Hiring! Termite Treaters and Inspectors

Work with a great local company, in business for over 50 years. BC/BS insurance, 401k, opportunities available.

No experience required Must have a good driving record and be able to pass drug screen. Email to facsmith@charter.net or call 205-369-6250 Vulcan Termite and Pest Control

MY COLUMBIANA

LESLIE BELK

Community

Engagement Coordinator

for the Shelby County Arts Council

Great food, best service

Blue Agave

Columbiana has so many great places to eat and shop, but I’m a huge fan of Blue Agave. The food is delicious, and the welcoming atmosphere and friendly service make it even better. My buddy Juan greets us every time with a big smile and takes such great care of us. As we’re leaving, he always says, “See you tomorrow!”— and it genuinely makes you want to come right back.

Small town charm

Columbiana Main Street

One of my favorite things about Columbiana is beautiful Main Street. It has a warmth and charm that instantly makes you feel connected to the community. The historic setting, local businesses, and friendly faces create an atmosphere that’s both inspiring and welcoming.

Thrifting made fun

The Mission Thrift & Gifts

One of my new obsessions in town is this precious new thrift store. They have great items and are always friendly and welcoming. Best of all, it supports a wonderful cause—so go support them and feel good about every purchase you make.

Rewarding work

Community Engagement Coordinator

Working for a non-profit in Columbiana gives me the great opportunity to meet and work with some incredible people in this sweet town.

Home of the arts

Shelby County Arts Council

Working at the Shelby County Arts Council means being deeply connected to the heart of Columbiana. From Main Street to our Song Theater, EBSCO Fine Art Gallery and classrooms, the arts bring people together in ways that feel personal and authentic. It’s meaningful work that reflects and strengthens the spirit of Columbiana every day. Being part of a community like this makes coming to work every day a complete joy.