Columbiana Living Winter 2025

columbiana living

Dudley’s devotion

EHES’ Courtney Dudley creates a safe space for her students.

Confectionary confessions

Chula’s Bakery whisks up confections filled with pride.

County cornerstone

Attorney Butch Ellis serves Columbiana with integrity.

J O I N U S F O R T H E 7 T H A N N U A L

5K/10K & 1 MILE FUN RUN!

Benefitting Sacred Selections, assisting Christian families with adoption costs. Over the last six years, we've raised $66,423.84! Last year, we welcomed over 200 runners and raised over $11,000. Let’s make 2026 the best event yet!

JANUARY 10, 2026

BY

city leadership

5 Columbiana’s new mayor, Lisa Davis, gives warm welcome as she begins her first term.

arts & culture

6 The Guide: Learn about everything happening in Columbiana throughout December.

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 junior Morgan Arnold as she guards the court.

14 Meet Elvin Hill Elementary School teacher Courtney Dudley as she strives to build a safe environment for her students.

meet your neighbors

32 Were you Spotted? Check to see if you and your neighbors are featured in one of Columbiana’s recent events.

36 My Columbiana: Mayor Lisa Davis shares her favorite locations and activities in her hometown of Columbiana.

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

Connor Martin-Lively

MARKETING

Noah Brakefield

Evann Campbell

Octavia Campbell

Rachel Henderson

Rhett McCreight

Lauren Morris

Viridiana Romero

Tori Smith

ADMINISTRATION

Anna Marie Cleckler

Mary Jo Eskridge

Alec Etheredge

Stacey Meadows

Kayla Reeves

Leslie Reeves

Brittany Schofield

Wfrom the editor

With winter almost here, this issue officially marks one year of Columbiana Living magazine. We are thrilled with the response we’ve received from the community this past year as we’ve worked to spotlight all of the wonderful things happening in Columbiana.

As someone who was raised here and continues to work here every week, it’s been a special opportunity to highlight such a wonderful place to live—that’s full of unique businesses and people.

As we conclude a fall season full of events, things aren’t slowing down as December is packed with family-friendly holiday festivities from start to finish. Snow will return to Old Mill Square Park and parade-goers will fill Columbiana Main Street during the city’s annual Christmas Parade.

In our fourth quarterly publication for this year, we look forward to all of those holiday activities ahead, while also spotlighting a legendary hometown hero and a thriving local business.

I have been blessed to have the opportunity to work multiple times with Attorney Frank C. “Butch” Ellis, and in this issue, I had the chance to sit down and talk about his deep ties to the city of Columbiana and how he went from a young farmhand to Shelby County’s attorney.

Chula’s Bakery on Main Street has quickly become a staple of not only Columbiana, but for our office at the Shelby County Reporter as well. Chula Decker’s ever-rotating menu of items has been a consistent surprise and so was the opportunity to tell her story—one that involves heritage, family and a dash of creativity.

In this Winter issue, we also highlight two stand-outs from local schools with Q&As from Elvin Hill Elementary School teacher Courtney Dudley, in addition to Morgan Arnold, a junior guard for Varsity Girls Basketball at Shelby County High School.

Spot several familiar faces at events across the city in our Out & About section and look back at some of the fall festivities that occurred in our photo section.

by Jamie Dawkins ON THE COVER

It is always our goal to spotlight all of the incredible parts of life in Columbiana and to continue to tell the inspiring stories of the everyday people behind the scenes. If you have any suggestions as we begin work on our spring edition, please send me an email at the email address below.

noah.wortham@shelbycountyreporter.com

Columbiana Living Magazine is published quarterly by Shelby County Newsmedia, Inc. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newsmedia, Inc. [The Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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

For more than 50 years, I’ve been proud to call Columbiana my home. This isn’t just where I live, this is where my story was written. Where my roots run deep. Where I’ve raised my family, built lifelong friendships, prayed through storms, celebrated victories and learned what true community really means. Columbiana has shaped me, loved me, taught me and molded me into the person I am today.

My decision to run for Mayor was not something I entered into lightly or on a whim. It came from a place of genuine love, service and a deep calling to give back to the town that has poured so much into my life.

Mayor

I believe that when a place gives you so much, you should return the blessing. If I can play even a small role in helping Columbiana grow stronger, more financially secure, more connected, more united and better prepared for our future, then I am willing to work and work hard, to help make those goals a reality.

I have also witnessed the breakdowns that happen when communication is lacking and relationships aren’t nurtured, between leaders, organizations and neighboring communities. A community cannot thrive when divided. I am committed to reconnecting, rebuilding and restoring trust.

I will communicate openly, clearly and honestly, even when conversations are difficult.

I will listen to understand, not just to reply. I will seek advice from those with expertise, remain open-minded and continue learning and growing, because leadership should always evolve.

Lisa Strickland Davis

Columbiana deserves a mayor who never stops improving.

This isn’t just where I live, this is where my story was written... Columbiana has shaped me, loved me, taught me and molded me into the person I am today.

For years, I’ve had the privilege of volunteering throughout our community. Being active, being present and being involved is simply part of who I am. Serving others was instilled in me early in life. I learned that if you want to see change, sometimes you have to be the one willing to stand up, step forward, and be that change. Through my involvement, I’ve seen firsthand the needs of our city and the areas that require improvement. I’ve seen where we’ve grown, and I’ve also seen the places and people that have been overlooked, under-supported and in some cases, forgotten. Every district matters. Every neighborhood matters. Every voice matters.

A strong community doesn’t grow by elevating only a few, it grows when everyone is treated with fairness, respect and equal consideration.

This is our community, and moving forward it will take all of us working together, not just a group or a board or a few individuals, but an entire city united in purpose.

We have work to do, and a lot of it, but united we are not just a community, we are a movement.

I believe with all my heart that God sees the intentions behind what we do. I believe He placed this calling on my life for a purpose. I believe God has plans for Columbiana, plans to prosper, uplift, strengthen and bless this town and its people.

To my friends, family, neighbors and supporters who showed up, spoke up and voted for a better future, thank you!

I will work every day to make you proud. I will show up. I will listen. I will lead with honesty, humility, integrity and compassion. I will be visible, accessible and present, not just in an office, but in the community with you.

Serving as your mayor will be one of the greatest honors of my life.

Let’s get started. Let’s get to work. Let’s do this, together.

Lisa Strickland Davis, Mayor of Columbiana

FOOD TRUCKS AND SNOW

DEC. 5, 12, 19

5-8 P.M.

Old Mill Square Park

Eat snacks from a variety of food trucks and enjoy a 100 percent chance of snow in Old Mill Square Park during the city’s annual Food trucks and snow series throughout the month of December.

THE GUIDE

AROUND TOWN

DEC. 1 | 6 P.M.

Beautification Board Meeting Police Department Conference Room

DEC. 2 | 5:30 P.M.

Varsity Girls Basketball - Vincent Shelby County High School

DEC. 2 | 7 P.M.

Varsity Girls Basketball - Vincent Shelby County High School

DEC. 2 | 6 P.M.

Columbiana City Council

Columbiana City Hall

DEC. 5 | 5:30 P.M.

Varsity Girls Basketball – Thorsby Shelby County High School

DEC. 5 | 7 P.M.

Varsity Boys Basketball – Thorsby Shelby County High School

DEC. 5 | 5 P.M.

Snow and food trucks

Old Mill Square Park

DEC. 5 | 5-7 P.M.

SCAC Artist Market

Shelby County Arts Council

DEC. 5 | 7 P.M.

Columbiana Christmas Parade

Columbiana Main Street

DEC. 6 | 10 A.M.TO 1P.M.

Book signing with Martie Duncan The Farm Company

DEC. 6 | 9 A.M. TO 3 P.M.

SCAC Artist Market

Shelby County Arts Council

DEC. 6 | 1-4 P.M.

Beautification Board Christmas Tour of Homes

Homes across Columbiana

DEC. 8 | 6 P.M.

Park and Recreation Board

Columbiana City Hall

DEC. 9 | 6 P.M.

Merry and Bright Ladies Night Provincial Pub

DEC.

5

Columbiana Christmas Parade

7 P.M.

Columbiana Main Street

Enjoy the city’s annual holiday festivities with the annual Columbiana Christmas

Parade on Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. The parade will feature a variety of floats, as well as student groups and organizations from around town.

DEC. 5, 6

SCAC Artist Market

5-7 P.M.

Shelby County Arts Council

Peruse a variety of items at the SCAC Artist Market during the holiday season at the Shelby County Arts Council on Dec. 5 and Dec. 6.

Cowboy Day

Columbiana Main Street

Columbiana will be transported to the old west during its annual Cowboy Day celebration on Feb. 28. Enjoy activities on Main Street and Old Mill Square.

Santa in the park

P.M. Old

Square Park Meet jolly old St. Nick himself at Old Mill Square Park on Dec. 19 at 6 p.m.

DEC. 11 | 5:30 P.M.

Varsity Girls Basketball –Montevallo

Shelby County High School

DEC. 11 | 7 P.M.

Varsity Boys Basketball –Montevallo Shelby County High School

DEC. 11 | 5:30-7 P.M. Plant Swap and Plant Talk Amazing Flowers & Occasions

DEC. 11 | 6 P.M. Planning and Zoning Meeting Columbiana City Hall

DEC. 12 | 5:30 P.M.

Varsity Girls Basketball –Center Point

Shelby County High School

DEC. 12 | 7 P.M.

Varsity Boys Basketball –Center Point Shelby County High School

DEC. 12 | 5-8 P.M.

Food trucks and snow

Old Mill Square Park

DEC. 12 | 5-9 P.M.

Be Merry Columbiana Main Street

DEC. 12 | 7:30 P.M.

CashBack Christmas Show Song Theater

DEC. 14 | 4-6 P.M.

Sean of the South Christmas Show Song Theater

DEC. 15 | 4 P.M.

Varsity Girls Basketball –Central Clay Shelby County High School

DEC. 15 | 5:30 P.M.

Varsity Boys Basketball –Central Clay

Shelby County High School

DEC. 12

CashBack Christmas Show

7:30 P.M.

Song Theater

A tribute to Johnny Cash with a festive flair—the CashBack Christmas Show combines Johnny Cash classics and beloved holiday tunes for a toe-tapping Christmas celebration. Starting at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 12, enjoy a wide variety of classic Cash songs spanning the “Man In Black’s” 51-year career.

Mardi Gras Gala

5:30-10 P.M. Grande Hall

Enjoy a dinner catered by The Fish Market Hoover, a live auction and dance the night away to tunes by Sean of the South & Boef Gras “The sound of New Orleans” on Feb. 12 from 5:30-10 p.m.

21 DEC. 14

Sean of the South Christmas Show

4-6 P.M. Song Theater

Enjoy a nice Sunday afternoon performance, featuring Sean Dietrich and friends on Dec. 14 from 4-6 p.m. Each performance will feature Sean and the gang, delivering a mix of humor, storytelling and eclectic musical performances.

16 | 6 P.M. Columbiana City Council Columbiana City Hall DEC. 17 | 5:30 P.M.

Varsity Girls Basketball - Jemison Shelby County High School DEC. 17 | 7 P.M. Varsity Boys Basketball - Jemison Shelby County High School

19 | 5-8 P.M. Food trucks and snow Old Mill Square Park

19 | 5-8 P.M. Be Merry Old Mill Square Park

19 | 6 P.M. Santa in the park Old Mill Square Park DEC. 20 | 1 P.M. Varsity Girls Basketball –Chilton County Shelby County High School

Some Christmas wishes need more than magic, they need a community that believes in you. At Bryant Bank, we’re not just bankers, we’re your neighbors within the community. For generations, we’ve been turning holiday hopes into lasting memories. We know your dreams and we’re here to help make them come true, one wish at a time.

MORGAN ARNOLD

How did you first get into basketball?

My dad put me into city league when I was eight years old. After watching some high school games and playing my first real game, I fell in love with it.

What motivates you to continually improve?

I just really want to get better every day. I love the feeling when you can tell your hard work is paying off, and I want to play at the next level, so that keeps me going too.

Who is the coach who had the greatest impact on you, and why did they impact you so much?

Definitely coach Calloway, my travel ball coach. He pushed me to play with confidence and not be afraid to make mistakes. He believed in me, and that means a lot.

What do you enjoy doing off the court?

When I’m not playing, I like hanging out with my friends, listening to music and just relaxing. I love going to other games and spending time with my family and going to church.

How have you grown into one of the leaders of the team as a junior?

I’ve learned a lot from the older girls that came before me, and now I try to be that for the younger ones. I just try to keep everyone positive, work hard and lead by example.

What’s your favorite sports memory at Shelby County?

I would say it had to be the winning shot against Central-Clay County in the area tournament last season.

What are your expectations and goals for this season?

We want to make a big run this year and go deep in the playoffs. Personally, I just want to keep improving, be a good teammate and help us win however I can.

COURTNEY DUDLEY

Kindergarten teacher at Elvin Hill Elementary School

What makes Elvin Hill Elementary School a great place to work as a teacher?

Elvin Hill has such a special place in my heart. I loved being a student at Elvin Hill, so when I was offered the opportunity to teach here I was beyond excited. I love teaching in this small closeknit community because you get to know the students and their families so well. I also love the people I work with. They are some of the best people I know, and they truly care so much about each and every one of the students at our school.

When you get to EHES each morning, what is the number one thing you hope to achieve for the day?

My goal for each day is for my students to feel safe and cared for. Of course, I want them to learn all the important things they need to learn, but I think that is much easier to do when they feel safe and cared for.

What is your favorite part of being a teacher?

My favorite part of teaching is the relationships I get to build with my students. I love every part of my job, but the students are by far my favorite part. We become a little family during the school year. It is always a little sad to see them move on to the next grade.

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

I find that students are excited about learning when their teacher is excited about teaching and learning. I try to model that excitement and show students I am still learning new things all the time.

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

Hands-on learning is a must, especially in kindergarten. During centers, students are playing games or using manipulatives to practice the skills we are learning. Sometimes they don’t even realize they are learning because they are having so much fun.

What ultimately made you decide to become a teacher?

Both of my parents were teachers. I spent every afternoon playing school in their classrooms and when I got home, I played school with my stuffed animals. It is really the only job I have ever wanted. I also had so many amazing teachers along the way that impacted my life in such a positive way and inspired me to try to do the same for others. I truly feel like God created me for this purpose.

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

I want them to feel important, loved and confident in their ability to do whatever they set their minds to. I love seeing students from previous years and hearing about the great things they are doing. I hope they know they will always have a special place in my heart.

COUNSEL FOR THE AGES

County Attorney Butch Ellis serves Columbiana with integrity for more than 50 years.

BY NOAH WORTHAM

After the alarm woke him up at 3 a.m., a young man darted his eyes around to see that it was still dark. He slowly got up out of bed and got dressed to feed and milk the cows. After exiting the house, he could see that even the roosters weren’t awake yet as he made his way on the Columbiana dairy farm to where the cows were. After milking the cows, he cleans the pens and prepares fresh milk to sell to his neighbors.

“Hey Butch,” his neighbors say as he makes his way around town along with his brother and a red wagon full of bottles of fresh milk.

After finishing up with the sales, he and his brother head back to the farm to get ready to be at school on time before the morning bell with all of the other students at grammar school.

All these years later, at age 85, as he walks about Main Street from his law office in Columbiana, Frank C. “Butch” Ellis Jr. sees plenty of familiar faces, but also a host of new ones as the city he has called home continues to develop and change. Regardless, he’s still glad and wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I guess part of it is inertia, part of it is where you happen to stay,” Ellis said. “Columbiana felt good to

me. I felt like that was where I was more loved and safer here than anywhere else in the world.”

FINDING HIS FOOTING

Ellis was born and raised in Columbiana on his parents’ dairy farm, where he lived while he attended grammar school—which is now located at the spot of the Shelby County Schools Board of Education. He attended Shelby County High School, where he was president of the Student Government Association and a co-captain of the football team alongside Don Armstrong.

After graduating from SCHS, he studied at the University of Montevallo before transferring to Auburn University to study pre-mechanical engineering. However, after having trouble in chemistry and math, Ellis decided to take a different path—both academically and personally, as he returned to the University of Montevallo to study law and to marry his childhood sweetheart, Diane Bentley Ellis. He graduated from UM in 1961 and married Diane a year later. The two have been happily married for 63 years.

In 1964, after graduating summa cum laude at the top of his class from the University of Alabama School of Law, Ellis began to look for a place to work and begin practicing law. He interviewed with a law firm in Mobile and a couple of large firms in Birmingham, but there was still something in the back of his mind tugging at him to come back home to Columbiana.

“The only reason I even thought about not coming back to Columbiana is I’d been so mischievous… those people in Columbiana would still think of me as just that young, crazy boy, but I wanted to come home,” Ellis said. “This was where I felt more comfortable and just gravitated back.”

It was a decision Ellis did not regret as he was chosen at just 24 years of age to serve as Shelby County’s first-ever county attorney and the city attorney for Pelham. Since then, he has served as a city attorney for Calera, Harpersville, Helena, Montevallo, Pelham, Westover and Wilton.

“Government was not as complicated then as it is now,” Ellis said. “At that time, I could probably spend 20 minutes a day and do the county business. We did trial work for them. They were building roads and condemning land. Nobody sued anybody

in those days. You didn’t have a lot of lawsuits to defend like we have now.”

Ellis has worked on a variety of cases over his career, serving clients across the county in issues, including civil disputes, estate planning and even criminal cases. Having consistently worked 60hour workweeks since he was young, at the age of 85, Ellis said he plans to finally cool it down and work only 40 hours a week.

“I’ve got a good environment here to practice in,” Ellis said. “I sit up there in my office and I see the

sun go down over the courthouse and I see my friends walking by and the wind blowing trees. It’s a pretty comfortable space to spend 8 or 10 hours a day, and that’s the reason I kept on doing it.”

LEAVING A LEGACY

On top of reliably serving as the county attorney for more than 50 years, Ellis has consistently worn many hats—carrying that dedicated work ethic he learned as a child on the farm all the way into adulthood.

In 1982, Ellis was elected to the Alabama state Senate, where he served for 10 years in office. There, he served as the Senate floor leader and as chair of the Senate Judiciary-Criminal Justice Committee.

In the early ‘90s, Shelby County found itself with approximately a $50 million debt from multiple projects and had defaulted on a multimillion-dollar loan it had taken out for work on the sewer system. Ellis worked alongside Shelby County Commissioner Don Armstrong and former state Rep. Mike Hill in saving Shelby County by passing a daring 1-cent sales tax increase in 1993. Thanks to their efforts, the county was able to pay off its debt before the full 10-year limit on the tax had even passed.

In addition to his various roles in public office, Ellis also served as chair of the Fish and Subcommittee of the Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee and on the University of Montevallo Board of Trustees for 23 years and served as president of the Shelby County Bar

“The most important thing that I think I’ve done are my three children, my grandchildren. If you ask me what I want to be remembered for, I’d want to be remembered as someone who tried to be a good husband, father and grandfather of my children and grandchildren.”

-Butch Ellis Association.

However, the greatest roles Ellis found fulfillment in in life were as husband, father and grandfather— ones that he’s taken seriously. Ellis settled down on the same piece of property he grew up on, and he raised his own children. Now, Butch’s son, Corley Ellis, runs Ellis Properties Inc. in Columbiana and his daughter, Kelly Davis, runs Just a Tish Wine & More on Columbiana Main Street.

As he guides his grandchildren and offers them words of advice, he encourages them to always have a goal with something to aim for in the next five years, 10 years and 20 years. An approach to life far from the one he took, but fortunately, it all seemed to have worked out in the end.

“I felt my way through life,” Ellis said. “Not quite as purposeful as it should have been. I took roads as

I got to them, and I’d make a decision. I’d take this road or that road. It turned out all alright, but I didn’t have a master plan for how I wanted my life to end up. I’m very happy with the way it did.”

On Oct. 23, Ellis was formally recognized for all of his years of service to Shelby County and was inducted into the Shelby County Hall of Fame as a member of the class of 2025—receiving a Cornerstone Award. However, despite all the accomplishments, Ellis feels that there is one element of his life that is far more important.

“The most important thing that I think I’ve done are my three children, my grandchildren,” Ellis said. “If you ask me what I want to be remembered for, I’d want to be remembered as someone who tried to be a good husband, father and grandfather of my children and grandchildren.”

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

SPOONFUL OF HERITAGE

Chula Decker measures out the right blend of flavors one dish at a time

BY NOAH WORTHAM

SStanding at the counter with a large cleaver nearly as big as she is, a girl is attentively listening to her mom for instructions. As she begins to cut the vegetables, her mother stops her and shows her the correct way to hold the blade.

“Oh no, you hold the knife like this,” she says. “That way you don’t cut your finger.”

While frustrated, the young girl diligently obeys her mother—gradually improving her cooking skills one dish at a time. Now, all these years later, Chulalrat “Chula” Decker is grateful for those days in the kitchen, and each time she prepares a Thai dish, it brings her back to those cherished moments with her mother.

“The love of cooking came from my mom,” Decker said. “Thai food hits my soul because that reminds me of my mom. She’s gone now, and when I’m making Pad Thai, I hear my mom in the back of my head.”

That passionate dedication to the craft of feeding others has grown beyond a personal memorial as Decker has now started sharing that love with others at her business Chula’s Bakery on Columbiana Main Street.

“Food is my love language,” she said. “I just love cooking for people.”

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Chulalrat Linda Decker first came to the United States from Thailand with her mother at just three years of age. As a young toddler, she spoke nothing but Thai, but gradually began to learn English and about American culture.

In order to better integrate with those around her, Decker first went by her middle name, Linda, which she kept until her mother decided that she should go back to using her Thai name— Chulalrat—at 10 years of age. As the oldest of three sisters, Decker’s mother decided that she was the one who would be taught how to cook.

“She wanted to make sure I knew how to cook,” Decker said. “As I got older, it just became natural. I’m very comfortable in the kitchen—any kitchen. I can whip you up anything you want, any Mexican, Asian, Indian food, Thai food. Whatever you want, I can pretty much make it.”

However, those cooking skills were put on the side for the majority of Decker’s life as she first worked as a hair stylist and manicurist for 34 years. After dealing with some changes in her personal life, Decker moved to Columbiana around three years ago. It was a major transition

for a woman who was used to city life—moving out into the country.

“We’re on the back side, kind of like in the country,” Decker said. “You have to go down a dirt road to get to our house.”

While it took time to get used to the new atmosphere of her home, she warmed up to Columbiana and realized the beauty of living out in the country. Alongside that change in location also came a change in approach to life.

“So, then I started branching out, knowing my neighbors and I’m the type of person that I love to cook for you,” she said. “So, I started cooking different dishes, (and) when I cook, I cook big, I can’t help it. I can’t just cook for two people, so I gave my extras to my neighbors and they were, of course, responsive and loved it.”

After learning how to make her own sourdough bread at the request of her husband, Decker then decided to test her entrepreneurial spirit by selling it. She got a cottage license and first held standups on Columbiana Main Street during the city’s annual Music on Main series during the summer before selling around at various locations, such as Just a Tish Wine & More.

After finding success, she rented out a room in

the Shops of Columbiana on Main Street. Under the name Chula’s Sweet Shop, she sold various items on Saturdays. After Hometown Blends closed its doors in July 2024, the front space at the Shops of Columbiana was vacant and Decker took the leap of faith to open up Chula’s Bakery and has found success ever since.

WHAT’S FOR LUNCH?

Chula’s Bakery got its name in part thanks to her husband, Troy Decker, who was the one who came up with her titular nickname.

“Nobody ever really knew my first name till my husband came along about 15 years ago, and he’s like, ‘Why don’t you go by your first name?’” she said. “I told him the story (of how hard it is to pronounce) and he’s like, ‘Well, I’m going to call you Chula.’”

Now, residents around Columbiana are familiar with the chef, stopping by for breakfast, lunch and for sweets. Located at 104 South Main Street, Chula’s Bakery is open Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2 pm.

In addition to an array of sweet treats in the case for purchase, Decker separates her bakery from other local eateries by having an everrotating menu of dishes each day for breakfast

and lunch.

“I love it,” Decker said. “It’s very customizable, not just for customers but for me.”

That free-flowing style of menu offerings keep the job interesting for Decker, who prepares the dishes each day. Learning to create a variety of dishes with varying ingredients also came from her childhood.

“Growing up, we weren’t very rich, we were just very middle class to lower class—so we’d look at the cupboard and my mom would teach me, ‘This is what we got. What are we going to make out of it?” Decker said.

The ability to think on the fly with leftover ingredients has led to new creations and offerings for customers. After having extra pancakes leftover one time, Decker offered McGriddle-style breakfast sandwiches.

The ever-changing menu creates excitement for customers who want to know what’s for breakfast or lunch today.

“I just love it because it gives me the freedom to be adventuresome,” Decker said.

As she looks to the horizon from behind the counter, Decker feels good about where the future will take Chula’s Bakery next.

“I see us growing,” Decker said. “And hopefully, one day, you never know. I may have a little bistro because I plan on getting bigger.”

FORGING LEADERS

Members of the Leadership Shelby County class of 2026 bonded over outdoor exercises, heard from guest speakers and were introduced to the program’s concepts during an overnight opening retreat Sept. 9-10.

REPORTER PHOTOS/ALEC ETHEREDGE AND FOR THE REPORTER/NEAL WAGNER

WILDCAT PRIDE

Shelby County celebrated Homecoming season in style on Friday, Sept. 12 as school organizations marched down Columbiana Main Street during the annual Shelby County High School Homecoming Parade.

REPORTER PHOTOS/TYLER RALEY

MONSTERS ON MAIN

More than 6,000 residents visited Columbiana Main Street on Halloween for its annual Monsters on Main tradition, which saw 62 participating groups hand out candy to children.

1. Jay and Erin Welborn

2. Brittany Mora, Brooke Hamrick and Angela Cook

3. Colby Shealy, Alyson Owens, Kelsey Mullins and Jake Hays

4. Terri Powell, Pam Edwards, Heather Farmer, Lorel Bryant, Brittany Pennington and Corey Farmer

5. Bryson, Bobby, Courtney and Brayden Madison

6. Joe and Jodie Alaimo

7. Wayne, Zac and Christie Isbell

8. Ruiz family

9. Jordan Howell, JP Fox, Tommy Ponder, Donna B., Brook Farr, Jaselyn Tidmore and Rachel Fox

10. Cheryl and Amanda

11. John Michael and Julianna Sweatt

12. Karen Evans and Shea Barnett

13. Kendra and Bristow Beauchamp with Melanie Bristow

14. Lisa Lively, Bri Denham, Chula Decker and Alice Turner with Hannah Irwin

15. Darrel and Lisa Davis

16. Alexandria Arthur, Aylynn Burks, Mariah Blackwell, Payden Kohn, Nicholas Weis, Keilyn Lawson, Lamar Bell, Sarah Dudley, Charlotte Bell, Zaila Randolph, Edwards Arthur, Julie Yocolm, Hannah Yocolm, Ruth Turner, Braxton Lawson and Marlo Kohn

COLUMBIANA WITCHES RIDE

Columbiana Main Street hosted its annual Witches Ride on Saturday, Oct. 11, which saw participants dressed in their best witchy attire for ghostly trip down Main Street.

1. Dawn Lacey, Gena Morris and Linda Campanotta

2. Kristen and Richard Woods

3. Marye McMeans and Linda Obering

4. Chris and Angie Nash with Amy Ellison

5. Tiger and Cathy Hitt

6. Ali Payne, Caroline Payne, Josie Payne, Angie Nash, Michele Faulkner, Molly Beth Gay, RJ Pennington, Avery and Sara Catherine Pennington

7. RJ and Molly Gay

8. Justin Barnes, Emily Barnes and Ralph

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)444-9774.

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! 205651-0077

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.

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 root-cause & 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

LISA DAVIS

Mayor of the city of Columbiana

Savory flavor

Tin Top Bar-B-Que 2

One of my favorite places that we eat at often is Tin Top Bar-B-Que 2 in Columbiana. I remember back in the early days the spot belonged to Beverly’s BBQ. Back then there weren’t even seats in the restaurant, it was take out only. Then she built the current building Tin Top is in currently. There’s a lot of nostalgia there plus good food! I enjoy the pork sandwich and then the ribeye on the weekends.

Winter walkthrough Christmas Tour of Homes

There are so many great events but one of my favorites is the Beautification Board’s Christmas Tour of Homes. Christmas is such a magical time in Columbiana and the Tour of Homes just adds to the holiday experience. It’s a fundraiser for the Beautification Board and proceeds go back to our community.

Peace and serenity

Family lake house

New direction Officer of mayor

It’s such an honor to be elected as the first female mayor in Columbiana. While the job will be the same, I think it gives women hope in knowing that anyone can do something if they set their mind to it. It’s important for young girls to see women in leadership roles around their county, someone to aspire to be. I have so many things on the list of things to do when I take office but one of the more important ones is to introduce myself to other county leaders and business owners in our town. It’s important that people know the leadership, and I want to make sure everyone knows me.

Pride and joy

Columbiana Main Street

One of my favorite places to go outdoors is probably no surprise to anyone that knows me: downtown Columbiana working on the flowerbeds and other beautification projects. I guess you could say that it’s my “dirt therapy.” I love having a project, working on it and seeing the enjoyment it brings everyone in our community. Flowers and other fun things the Beautification Board has added really brings a visual impact and charm to our town.

My favorite spot in Shelby County has to be our family lake house on Lay Lake. It is so special to me and my family. My grandfather purchased the lot back in the late 60’s and started building the cabin we have. Over the years so many family moments have taken place there. It’s a home place, my happy place, the place I go to feel close to loved ones that have departed and to be closer to God. There’s something about water that just rejuvenates the soul.