SPECIAL TO THE REPORTER

The stars were falling on Shelby County at the Retired Senior Volunteer Program&8217;s recent talent/variety show.

Area seniors showed up in force to share their talents at the 4-H Center in Columbiana.

The evening opened with entertainment from the Pea Ridge Singers, the Lawleys and Lee Wallace, Joe Kendrick and Opal Farley. Kendrick provided the sound system for all of the variety acts.

An updated version of &8220;Hee Haw,&8221; as only the Alabaster seniors could provide was introduced by Carol &8220;Minnie Pearl&8221; Reddoch.

Participating were Mildred Baldwin playing the ukulele, the Alabaster Senior Choir, Shelby County Commissioner Dan &8220;String Bean&8221; Acker and Albert &8220;Dolly Parton&8221; Forbes.

Shelby County Sheriff Chris Curry served as emcee for the evening and got in a few dance steps with &8220;Dolly.&8221;

The Heardmont Line Dancers led by Chris Morgan performed several numbers including River Dance.

They were followed by the Nickleplates from Montevallo&8217;s University Baptist Church, and the Vincent Seniors entertained with several gospel songs.

They were followed by a wonderful magic act by volunteer Shank Koothare of Maylene.

Alabaster First Presbyterian Seniors and Bethlehem Baptist volunteers Aileen Rice and Nell Newton shared their singing talents with the audience as well.

One of the highlights of the evening was Ruth Carlee from Good Hope Methodist Church.

Comedy Central was well represented by Commissioner Joel Bearden who shared stories and exploits regarding a recent plane jumping adventure for his birthday. Bearden said it&8217;s not skydiving if you&8217;re pushed.

The three hours of entertainment closed with a stirring rendition of a country classic by Commissioner Jon &8220;Knock Your Socks Off&8221; Parker. His son, Will, also mesmerized the audience with his singing. The talent from Shelby County&8217;s commission was amazing and impressive. The seniors appreciated their support and participation