Find camps and activities around the metro area in our Summer Camp Guide starting on page 25.
Cover photograph courtesy of Red Mountain Theatre
To view this and previous issues in a digital flip version, scan the QR code with your phone’s camera.
ABOUT US
Bham Family is published monthly by JBMC Media, LLC, P.O. Box 26432, Birmingham AL 35260. 10,000 copies are printed and distributed at more than 650 locations throughout Jefferson and Shelby Counties.
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EDITOR’S
Dear Readers,
NOTE
March has roared in like a lion! I am looking forward to lots of things this spring: showers, flowers, and sunshine. Not to harp on the weather, but it is the perfect time of year to get outside with family, so take advantage of some of the fun activities and other seasonal happenings around town this month. We compiled a handy list of events on page 22.
We also have a great fitness feature, courtesy of UAB Medicine, about their FLOW exercise program and the importance of healthy families. They’ve partnered with YMCA of Birmingham to help you get started and stay motivated. You can read more on page 12.
Mid-month, my family loves to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. My daughter builds a leprechaun trap every year, but so far it’s been left empty save for a handful of chocolate gold coins. If you’d like to try a fun new tradition, make sure you check out page
18 for ideas. We also have a few themed books we read each year, and I’m adding a new one to the mix this year: Happy St. Patrick’s Day from the Crayons. Pick it up from your local library!
I’m super excited about our special advertising section, starting on page 25, highlighting some of the best summer camps for kids. Registration is open for so many options around Birmingham, so check it out and discover the best fit for your kiddos.
Enjoy the brighter days, and happy spring!
Struggling with Phone
Opening Day
Opening Day.
There’s such anticipation that builds for the opening day of baseball. Kids love it. Dads love it. Moms love it. I mean, what’s not to love? Baseball is a lifestyle between the months of March and May, honestly. You know not to schedule any trips because you’ll miss a game, and your team needs you. The start of baseball also signals the beginning of spring, with the dull of winter finally on its way out. The sun will shine down on the bleachers, and the wind will carry with it the smells of hot dogs and concession stand fries.
But it’s not just better weather. It’s the new cleats and hats. It’s a favorite number on a new jersey. It’s the dirt that will cover every child, player or not, each Saturday. It’s a perfectly broken-in glove. It’s the sound of a ball hit to the fence. It’s a full count and down by one. It’s sliding into home plate for the first time. It’s the look from your son as he steps up to bat. It’s the grass stains that you’ll never get out and the messy eye black smears. It’s a double play at third base. It’s a little brother watching in awe. It’s a proud mother. It’s a nostalgic father. It’s your team with a big win. It’s a lifetime of memories, built in a few short years.
This is baseball.
And it is finally here.
is a boy mom (ages 10 and 5), nurse anesthetist, and writer in Birmingham. She shares her writing at Holy Moly Motherhood (on Facebook and Instagram), where she tackles all things motherhood and marriage.
Alana Smith
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ALANA SMITH
Alana Smith
BY SEAN DIETRICH
Birmingham Gal
We first met at a Little Free Library. About a mile from my house. I was walking through the ancient neighborhoods of Birmingham. I was with my dog, carrying a little plastic baggy of poop.
The antique houses caught the light from the setting sun. There was the sound of a leaf blower in the distance. Kids on bikes.
Sean Dietrich
Birmingham is a classically beautiful city. Seeing it at eye level is the only way to appreciate it.
She was a little older woman, digging through the public bookcase. Ninety pounds, max. Mid-80s. She was wearing a sweatshirt that read “I’m a side chick—mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, dressing, candied yams, cranberry sauce.” She held a Dorothy Garlock book in her hand. I was waiting my turn behind her.
I love Little Free Libraries. I’m a big reader. Little Free Libraries are one of the most beautiful inventions mankind ever created except for, of course, beer.
“Have you ever read Dorothy Garlock?” the woman asked.
“No, ma’am.”
“It’s woman crap, but it’s good,” she said.
The woman weighed the book in her hand. “Are you looking for something to read?”
“Yes.”
“Why don’t you take this? You’ll like it.”
“I don’t want to steal your book.”
“It’s okay. I know where you live. And I know jujitsu.”
I took the book. It was a fantastic read. Historical fiction. Set in olden times. With just the right amount of
sap. I fell in love with the author because she, too, was an old woman.
Dorothy Garlock was born in 1919, in Texas. Garlock worked for 14 years as a bookkeeper and columnist for a local newspaper before retiring at age 49. To fill her time, Dorothy started writing stories. And that’s when her writing career took off. In her golden years she authored over
ILLUSTRATION BY SEAN DIETRICH
50 historical fiction books. She died at 98. She was still writing.
I returned the book to the old woman’s house. She invited me in. We had Saltine crackers and pimento cheese. She kept her Saltines in a tin box. She served me iced tea sweet enough to break your jaw.
She asked what I did for a living. I told her I was a writer. The woman got so excited. She read every book I ever wrote. She came to my one-man performances.
She lent me more Dorothy Garlock books. I read them all. And we kept doing this for a little while. I was a Birmingham transplant. She was one of my first friends here.
“Everyone needs friends,” she said to me once, as she kissed my hair.
The woman’s daughters rarely visited her because they lived in other states. Her son had died in a car accident. And I got the sense that the woman was lonely.
She called me once to help power wash her fence. I helped her out. Another time, I helped plant some boxwoods. She paid me in Dorothy Garlock novels.
But over the years, we sort of lost touch. Although sometimes I’d see her when I was out walking. And we’d always talk.
A few months ago, I was walking past her little house. I saw the EMTs. I saw the ambulance. I saw the flashing lights. I stood at the curb. There were neighbors gathered on the street. I asked them what happened.
They all just shook their heads.
I wanted to cry. I don’t know why. I didn’t know her. Not really. I have no reason to get sentimental about a total stranger.
But you don’t forget kindness, no matter how small. You don’t forget your friends, no matter how close you were.
And you never forget side chicks.
Go with the FLOW Exercise
will help move your family toward a healthier future.
CONTRIBUTED BY UAB MEDICINE
The University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Family and Community Medicine is known for compassionate care, cutting-edge research, and comprehensive training programs. Operated through the Sports & Exercise Medicine clinic, the Fitness, Lifestyle, and Optimal Wellness, or FLOW, Program is designed for patients who want to take steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Patients meet with a provider for a thorough evaluation, examin-
ing the patient’s health history, physical activity level, diet and nutrition, sleep quality, stress, blood metabolic panels, body composition, metabolic rates, and cardiac fitness. Based on those results, providers recommend resources and design a personalized plan for each patient, including educational, dietary, and exercise programs. Among the options is a partnership with the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, called “Exercise is Medicine.” Patients in the Exercise is Medicine program receive a free two-
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF YMCA OF BIRMINGHAM FACEBOOK
month membership to the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, which allows them to visit any of the seven area branches in the region and receive an orientation to the facilities and programming to develop a consistent exercise plan. The program aims to both help patients facing chronic illness and prevent chronic problems before they start.
Dan Pile, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, says that preventive health measures such as the Exercise is Medicine program are key components of the YMCA’s mission. “As part of the public health system, we are uniquely positioned to confront health inequities by partnering with UAB Medicine. When we receive a medical referral, we know we will be working alongside individuals who need a great deal of support,” he says. “Access to affordable programs that promote lifestyle changes and physical activity is a bit of a challenge for many. Our open to and serving all policy ensures full access to the Y, regardless of one’s ability to pay. We are
more than a gym-and-swim. We make sure this experience is available to the entire family.”
Mickal Thomas, associate executive director at the YMCA of Greater Birmingham and leader of its personal training program, says most patients come in hoping to lose weight or get more active. “We put them through an orientation to our equipment, including cardio and strength equipment, and keep in contact with them at least once a week,” he says. “The benefit also extends to any location and to their families, which takes away some barriers, such as availability or childcare. That really helps us make it accessible for more people.”
The team approach—including support from physicians, dietitians, and trainers and staff at the YMCA—gives patients holistic support as they work toward a healthier lifestyle.
If you are interested in getting involved with the FLOW program, appointments can be made by calling (205) 930-8339. To learn more about the Exercise is Medicine program, visit ymcabham.org.
The Shades Valley YMCA on Highway 31 in Homewood
Celebrating Irish Heritage in Birmingham
This cultural society gathers to honor Saint Patrick and his historical roots.
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE
A community dedicated to celebrating Irish heritage and fostering cultural connections has been growing in Birmingham for more than four decades. This vibrant group, known as the Birmingham Irish Cultural Society, was founded in spring 1980 and has since become an integral part of the city’s cultural landscape.
The idea for an Irish society was born over lunch at Cobb Lane, when Martin “Marty” Connors and friend Paul McMahon, who had both been involved with Ronald Reagan’s presidential campaign—Reagan, along with President Obama, are two of 24 U.S. presidents to claim Irish heritage—sat down to discuss why Birmingham didn’t have a prominent Irish or Celtic celebration, especially considering the rich Irish and Scottish heritage of many in the area. (Approximately 12 to 18 percent of our local population has Irish or Scott-Irish ancestry.) It seemed only fitting to create an organization that would not only celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, but also honor
the broader cultural contributions of the Irish community. The idea quickly took shape, and the Birmingham Irish Cultural Society was born.
The society’s founders also explored the roots of the holiday that would later become the focal point of their celebrations. Though today we associate St. Patrick’s Day with Ireland, Saint Patrick, who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland, was not himself Irish. “He was of Scottish and Roman parents but was captured by Druids and forced into slavery in Ireland,” says Marty. “During his trials, he became devoted to Christianity, especially the Catholic Church.” Patrick later escaped and went back to Scotland, only to return to Ireland, become a priest, and profess Christianity to the island of Ireland. “So, St. Patrick’s Day is really a religious holiday, celebrating the birth of Christianity in a once-pagan Island.” Saint Patrick is remembered not only for his missionary work, but also for his role in helping transform Ireland from its pagan roots into a Christian nation.
St. Patrick’s Day, therefore, began as a religious observance, and the Birmingham Irish Cultural Society sought to honor this history while providing an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate their Irish heritage. Unlike some other cultural organizations, membership in the Birmingham Irish Cultural
CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF BIRMINGHAM IRISH CULTURAL SOCIETY
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
Society is open to anyone with an interest in Irish culture. The group has no formal membership requirements—simply contact them on Facebook or join in the festivities, including the popular annual parade. (See page 22 for more information.)
Over the years, the society’s events have become an important fixture in the community. What started with small gatherings has grown into the annual Five Points parade, one of the biggest and most anticipated events of the year in Birmingham and a beloved tradition, sponsored by the Five Points Merchants Association. In addition to the parade, the society has hosted an annual dinner or reception for 45 years. The proceeds from these events have supported a variety of charitable causes, including Kid One Transport, which helps provide transportation to medical care for children in need. The society’s commitment to charity extends to other organizations as well, with contributions to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, the Ovarian Cancer Foundation, and educational programs focused on Irish history for local schoolchildren. “Our latest adventure has been helping to underwrite an artificial intelligence symposium between leaders in Birmingham and those in Ireland,” says Marty.
The society’s influence and activities extend beyond traditional celebrations, too. One of the latest endeavors is their support of a group called “Revive Ireland,” a non-denominational religious movement aimed at reviving the Christian message of Saint Patrick in Ireland. In addition, members recently traveled to Huntsville to introduce the Irish Consul General to collaborative business opportunities between Alabama and Ireland, showcasing the society’s ongoing commitment to international exchange.
The Birmingham Irish Cultural Society is, at its core, a blend of tradition, education, and fun. From fostering a deeper understanding of Irish history to supporting charitable causes and strengthening international ties, it’s a group that celebrates the past while actively engaging with the future. So, whether you’re of Irish descent or simply interested in learning more about the culture, the Birmingham Irish Cultural Society invites everyone to join in the fun—and raise a glass to Irish heritage. Salante’! (Cheers!)
You’re invited to attend the 2025 Birmingham Irish Cultural Society’s 45th Annual St. Patrick’s Dinner Celebration on behalf of Kid One Transport, to be held March 14 at Protective Stadium’s Stadium Club. Young ladies can also join the 2025 Miss Shamrock Court, to be featured at the party and Five Points Parade. For more information, visit facebook.com/BhamIrish.
Luck of the Irish
For a festive St. Patrick’s Day, try these fun, family-friendly ideas.
St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect time to get creative with fun, family-friendly treats and crafts that everyone can enjoy! From colorful cookies to easy no-bake treats, this rainbow of ideas is sure to bring festive cheer to your celebration.
Vibrant pinwheel sugar cookies are a simple dessert that’s sure to impress. With just a few easy steps, you can create this colorful dessert that starts with refrigerated sugar cookie dough. They bring a burst of color and joy, making them perfect for a family celebration—and it’s easy to include the kids in the entire process!
Another quick-and-easy treat, Froot Loops Marshmallow Bars are a fun, fruity twist on traditional Rice Krispies Treats. Kids will love making and munching on these no-bake bars. With their bright colors, these bars are a perfect addition to St. Patrick’s Day festivities, school snacks, or parties. Feel free to swap out the Froot Loops for
Rainbow Pinwheel Sugar Cookies
your favorite cereal to mix things up!
These easy treats are just the beginning—there are endless ways to add a little leprechaun love to your day. We even have a simple shamrock craft below that makes a great addition to your St. Patrick’s Day table. Some other cute ideas:
• Make deconstructed rainbow snack cups by layering mini-marshmallows, Skittles or M&Ms, and Rolos.
• Purchase plain cupcakes from the grocery store and decorate with gold and green sanding sugar, colorful candies, and rainbow Airhead Xtremes or store-bought shamrock toppers.
• Swing by local candy store Sugar in Crestline for a mix of themed candies (69 Church Street).
This recipe is super-easy and uses ready-made ingredients, but for an even quicker option, simply roll the edges of slice-and-bake sugar cookies in multicolored nonpareils.
• Gently roll dough into a log so the sugar makes a pinwheel design on the inside.
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Knead together sugar cookie dough and flour until well combined.
• Sprinkle a cutting board with flour and roll out dough into a 1/4-inch-thick rectangle (about 14 x 10 inches).
• Sprinkle each color sugar in a stripe across the dough (go left to right, similar to flag stripes).
• Slice dough in 1/2-inch-thick pieces and place on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Gently press cookies with the palm of your hand to flatten slightly.
• Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are light golden brown. Cool 2 to 3 minutes on baking sheet before transferring to a cooling rack. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Froot Loops Marshmallow Bars
This recipe is also delicious with Fruity Pebbles or Lucky Charms.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons salted butter
10 ounces minimarshmallows
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
6 cups Froot Loops or other cereal
• Spray a 9- x 13-inch pan with cooking spray or line with parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch overhang on all sides. Set aside.
• Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium-lowheat.
• Add marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
• Add cereal and stir until completely coated.
Pipe
Cleaner Shamrocks
For this family-friendly craft, you’ll need green pipe cleaners colorful pony beads—that’s it! Pop one on each plate at your St. Patrick’s Day table.
• Twist two pipe cleaners together. Leave them in a straight line.
• Add some pony beads. We prefer making patterns, but you don’t have to. Don’t overload the pipe cleaner with beads.
• Then fold the long pipe cleaner in half.
• At the curved end of the folded pipe cleaner, make a simple heart shape.
• Twist underneath the heart to help hold the shape.
• Fold the remaining edges up and twist them all together in the middle where they meet.
• Push the other 2 pipe cleaner loops into heart shapes.
• Add another pipe cleaner to create the “stem” of the beaded shamrock.
• Pour mixture into prepared baking pan. Gently press with the back of a spoon coated in cooking spray.
• Allow mixture to cool completely, then slice into squares. The bars will last up to 5 days stored in an airtight container at room temperature, but they taste best within 24 hours of preparing.
BGIS Named School of Character
Brock’s Gap Intermediate School was named a 2025 State School of Character by Character.org for its commitment to a positive school environment and character development. This places Brock’s Gap Intermediate among 98 schools nationally and 12 in Alabama recognized for prioritizing character education.
“We could not have received better news during National School Counseling Week,” said Brock’s Gap Intermediate Principal Scott Mitchell. “Much of this credit goes to our amazing counselor, teachers, staff, and students, whose dedication to creating a positive school culture has played a pivotal role in this recognition.
Green Valley Teacher Wins Grant
Green Valley Elementary School counselor Teresa Hunter was surprised with the “One Class at a Time” $1,000 grant from CBS 42. Her dedication to the students and positive school environment at Green Valley is truly inspiring, and this grant will help her continue making a meaningful impact.
Band Performs at State Conference
The Louis Pizitz Middle School symphonic band was selected to play recently at the Alabama Music Educators Association Conference. The band performed for music educators across the state during the conference, which was held at the BJCC.
New Football Coach at Pelham
Pelham City Schools announced Ross Newton as the new Head Football Coach at Pelham High School. With more than 20 years of coaching experience at high school and collegiate levels, Newton brings a proven track record of success and a passion for developing student-athletes. Most recently, he served as Chief of Staff and Linebackers Coach at the University of Central Florida. He’s also held roles at Samford University, Auburn University, and Thompson High School.
Trussville Teacher Honored with Science Award
Hewitt-Trussville High School AP Physics teacher Melanie Dimler was recognized as one of 336 recipients of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). The school held a pep rally to celebrate her achievement. Established in 1983, the PAEMST is the most prestigious award given by the United States government to K-12 math and science teachers, recognizing educators who demonstrate deep content knowledge and the ability to adapt to diverse learning environments.
Happy Birthday!
Vestavia Hills Elementary Cahaba Heights turned 100 years old recently. The school held a centennial celebration with tours, historical artifacts, and a time capsule filled with notes from students and teachers. The capsule will be opened 100 years from now.
Pelham Athletics Announces Hall of Fame Class
The Pelham Athletics Hall of Fame recently inducted its inaugural class during a ceremony at the school’s football facility. The group included 20 inductees covering seven sports, including three coaches, an administrator, former Pelham Mayor Bobby Hayes, and two of the school’s most famous football players: former Parade All-American Quarterback Tyler Watts and Dabo Swinney, Clemson Head Coach and member of Alabama’s 1992 National Title team. Congratulations to all the inductees: Sean Anderson, Lane Bearden, Whitney Billings, Jeni Jones Chatman, Parker Curry, Trevor Fitts, Bill Flowers, Hasaan Hawthorne, Bobby Hayes, Kim Kiel, Alex Reese, Rick Rhoades, Tammy Richardson, Sara Sandrik, Erica Braswell Speegle, Hunter Stovall, Dabo Swinney, Althea Thomas, Greg Vinson, Tyler Watts.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF PAEMST
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VESTAVIA HILLS CITY SCHOOLS
Big Machines Day
March 1
The McWane Science Center, CraneWorks, and Vulcan Industrial Contractors are gearing up for another Big Machines Day. Visitors can get up close and personal with some big and small machines on the McWane Science Center’s plaza, while also learning about engineering and construction science. Big Machines Day is free to McWane Science Center Members and included with McWane admission for nonmembers. For more information, visit mcwane.org.
The Exceptional Foundation Chili Cook-Off
March 1
Join the Exceptional Foundation at Brookwood Village for the 21st annual Chili Cook-off, featuring live music, a kids’ zone, and chili from 150-plus teams. Proceeds benefit programs at the foundation. (Last year’s cook-off raised more than $520,000.) To participate or purchase tickets, visit exceptionalfoundation. org/chili.
Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast
March 8
This Homewood-Mountain Brook Kiwanis fundraiser includes all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage, coffee, and other beverages for $8 (ages 5 and under eat free). Held at The Exceptional Foundation, the event will also include a silent auction, door prizes, and a Kid Zone with activities. Proceeds benefit the Homewood Public Library and other charities in the Birmingham area focused on serving children. Tickets will be available at the door, or order online in advance through Eventbrite.
14th Annual Holi Festival
March 15
Celebrate the vibrant Holi Festival with the Indian Cultural Society at the Birmingham Museum of Art. This traditional Indian festival marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Enjoy live
music, dance performances, art activities, and the iconic throwing of colored powders. (The powders are safe and eco-friendly, but it is recommended to wear old clothes you don’t mind getting “colorful.”) Most of the event activities are free, with a $5 charge for performances in the auditorium. For more information, visit artsbma.org/event/14th-annual-holi-festival.
St Patrick’s Day Parade
March 15
Honor Irish culture at this vibrant parade and festival in the Five Points South entertainment area. This beloved Birmingham tradition will celebrate its 41st anniversary this year. The procession begins at 1:30 p.m., making its way up 20th Street South, and is led by the Ian Sturrock Memorial Pipe Band, along with other local organizations, businesses, and community groups. For more information, visit stpatsfivepoints. com.
CeCe Winans in Concert
March 20
The best-selling and most-awarded female gospel artist of all time, CeCe Winans has long since cemented her status as one of the most accomplished and celebrated women in modern music history. Her current tour stops locally at Church of the Highlands this month. For tickets, visit ticketmaster.com.
Rumpshaker 5K
March 22
The Rumpshaker 5K was first organized by family and friends in memory of Lisa Martz and her battle against colon cancer. The 17th Annual Rumpshaker 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run will take place at Regions Field. Since 2009, the Rumpshaker 5K has raised more than one million dollars to promote awareness about colorectal cancer, grant funds to fight and treat it, and provide hope for colorectal cancer survivors and those fighting the disease. For more information, visit rumpshaker5k.com.
Monster Jam
March 29
Witness world-class driver athletes and their enormous 12,000-pound trucks tear up the dirt and compete in intense speed and skill performances. For an up-close look at the massive trucks and to meet the drivers and crews, get autographs, and take pictures, add the Pit Party option to your ticket. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit monsterjam.com.
2025 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE
ADVERTISING CAMPS
CAMP DIRECTORY
ALABAMA SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS SUMMER CAMPS
Make your summer count this year with Alabama School of Fine Arts summer camps. A variety of camps in the arts and sciences are offered throughout June 2025. We have camps for aspiring Roblox programmers creative writers, young app designers, violinist/violists, and visual artists. ASFA also offers 3-week math intensives in prealgebra or Algebra 1 for those looking to get ahead in math or brush up their skills before the next school year. Come create, learn, and discover with ASFA’s award-winning faculty!
THE DANCE FOUNDATION SUMMER CAMPS
The Dance Foundation teaches the art of dance to all; we offer a welcoming, creative approach to teaching dance. Visit our website for our summer schedule of weekly classes for ages 1 to adult and camps for 4K through 12th grade. Classes for ages one through 1st grade are accompanied by live piano music. Camps are led by professional teaching artists and include Once Upon a Fairytale for 4K and 5K, Once Upon a Ballet and Adventures in Enchanted Lands for 1st through 3rd grade, Dance Exploration for 3rd through 6th grade and Dance Workshop for 6th-12th grade. TheDanceFoundation.org, Info@thedancefoundation.org.
GOAT YOGA FARM DAY CAMP
Get ready for the ultimate adventure at our Goat Yoga Farm Day Camp! This summer, join us June 16-20 or July 7-11, from 9 am to 1 pm, for an unforgettable experience for kids ages 7 and up! For just $275, your child will spend each day hanging out with adorable animals, doing crafts, and even practicing goat yoga! Every day is a new animal adventure—pig day, horse and mini donkey day, chicken day, cow day, and, of course, goat day! With just 15 spots available each week, your child will get tons of hands-on fun. A $100 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot. Sign up at goatyogabham.com today!
IMPACT MARTIAL ARTS SUMMER PROGRAMS
Looking for an EXCITING SUMMER ACTIVITY? Impact Martial Arts offers fun, high-energy programs for kids and adults of all skill levels! Build confidence, learn self-defense, and improve fitness in a supportive, family-friendly environment. With flexible schedules and expert instruction, we help students grow, stay active, and be their best – on and off the mat. Join us and be part of a community that’s Impacting Lives, One Black Belt at a Time! Call 205-664-4422 to schedule your first class today!
YMCA SUMMER DAY CAMP
Designed with working families in mind! We offer camp for rising 1st to rising 8th graders at locations across Jefferson and Shelby Counties. Financial Assistance available + extended care is included in the weekly fee. We uphold the highest safety standards – Praesidium Accreditation® publicly demonstrates to consumers that the YMCA of Greater Birmingham has achieved the highest industry standards in abuse prevention. Y camp offers incredible variety & opportunities to make new friends and grow in areas that spark their curiosity! Older campers can choose some activities and all campers have a pathway to learn to swim. Visit: Bhamycamp.org
Summer Theatre Camps at Red Mountain Theatre!
RMT’s Theatre Camps give kids an outlet to use their creativity and imagination in dramatic ways, at all ages and skill levels. Whether it’s one of our littlest actors stepping on stage for the first time or high schoolers honing their skills for the next big step, camps help kids with so much more than just singing and dancing. It’s about teamwork, discipline, confidence, friendship, and fun!
Camps will run from May 27 through August 1. Most camps take place on the RMT Arts Campus in downtown Birmingham. NEW THIS YEAR: two weeks of camps will be “on the road” in Alabaster (Thompson High School) and Chelsea (Chelsea Community Center); see website for details.
With our Play Making camps (ages 4-6), budding artists explore theatrical storytelling. These half-day classes teach collaboration, and creativity using familiar characters like Ariel, Spiderman, or Bluey as a jumping-off point.
Camps and learn basic theatre fundamentals while exploring the world.
Students aged 9-14 who are ready to shine on stage can join Blast Camps: week-long camps where hard work rehearsing a short script culminates in a performance.
Advanced students aged 12-18 can hone specific theatre skills like auditioning in our Summer Intensives. Most camps end with a short performance for
Ages 6-8 can step up and become a Triple Threat by working on singing, dancing, and acting skills. During the week, students learn 3-5 Broadway-style numbers to be performed at the end of the week for an audience of friends and family.
Creative students aged 7-12 can step into a familiar book or movie world with our Theme
family and friends. Financial aid is available for all who qualify. Extended care options and lunch plans can be added on. Camps fill up quickly so don’t delay!
Camp details and registrations can all be found at: redmountaintheatre.org/summercamps-2025/
Experience our award-winning CAMPS, classes, coaching and more at CheerPro Training.
We are dedicated to providing the highestquality training. We are a FAITH BASED organization! Because of that our goal is to positively invest in the lives of all the athletes entrusted to us.
Our Coaching Staff are all seasoned professionals in the cheerleading industry and highly sought after. In addition to excellence in training curriculum, our Coaches serve as mentors & role models who practice encouragement and positive reinforcement to build self-confidence, self-esteem, positive self-image, and strong morals and character.
We do not have all-star teams. As such, ALL of our resources are completely and 100% dedicated to YOUR athlete and to our Families (both prayerfully & administratively). We are known for our hands-on technique, and our high energy, structured classes that move quickly & purposefully ...No standing around & mindless corrections!
to correct techniques which will lead to safe &
successful skills. Our Coaches are also experts in helping athletes to overcome fear and mental blocks for skill progression.
We have gained our popularity by ‘listening’ to our clients over the years and always striving to be better. We strive for that extra special touch and effort to make all families and athletes feel
email, and communication. If you are looking for a gym where your athlete will thrive and soar in their tumbling and cheer skills – Let’s get them enrolled
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 June 9-13 June 23-27 July 14-28 July 28 - August 1 Week 4
9:00 am - 3:00 pm Monday-Friday
Welcome to Kidcam Camps at Oak Mountain! For Campers Ages 5 through 13
The Spirit of Summer comes alive at Kidcam Camps in Birmingham, where unforgettable adventures and trusted programs create the ultimate day camp experience. Registration for Summer 2025 is now open!
The camp provides a 10-week, memorable summer camp program for our 10th summer at Oak Mountain! Conveniently nestled near the main Lodge in the air-conditioned Oak Room & Pavilion area, this central location allows campers to enjoy all that Oak Mountain offers.
At Kidcam, Summer is Simplified. Forget the hassle of juggling schedules or piecing together summer plans. You can choose only the weeks you need. The camp runs for 10-themed weeks, and you can customize your schedule from one week to all ten
Kidcam Camps has been a trusted name in day camp programs for over 50 years. We partner with premier facilities across the Southeast to create exciting and safe summer experiences.
Camp Directors have said, “Kidcam at
boating or at the Wildlife center learning about native birds in Alabama.”
For more details and registration, visit: www.kidcam.camp/birmingham or contact us at omsp@kidcamcamps.com, 877-454-KIDS (3226)
Exciting Summer Camp Opportunities Await Shelby County Students!
Looking for an exciting way to keep your child engaged, supervised, and having fun this summer? Shelby County Schools has you covered! With action-packed summer day camps at five convenient locations—Calera Elementary, Chelsea Park Elementary, Helena Intermediate, Oak Mountain Intermediate and the Linda Nolen Learning Center—students will have a summer filled with adventure, learning, and lasting memories.
“Summer camp is more than just a childcare option for busy families—it’s a place where kids can grow, learn, and have a blast all summer,” said Cindy Warner, Supervisor of Public Relations and Community Education. “From making new friends to building confidence and leadership skills, campers get to explore exciting activities, discover new passions, and create unforgettable memories.”
Shelby County Schools Community Education Camps camps are open to students entering kindergarten through those finishing fifth grade. To meet transportation guidelines for off-site trips, incoming kindergarteners must be at least
five years old by June 2, 2025.
Families can sign up for as many weeks as they’d like—just be sure to finalize choices by May 23, 2025, as cancellations won’t be allowed after that date.
Get ready for an exciting lineup of activities, including creative arts & crafts; themed games and challenges; on-site educational field trips; and off-site adventures like bowling, skating, movies, indoor play centers, splash pads, and more!
Camp Details
JUNE2NDJULY25TH
Registration opens April 2 – May 2. Sign up online at ezchildtrack.com/scscomed/parent or call 205-682-5967 for more details.
and July 4th
Online registration begins April 2nd and ends May 2nd www.ezchildtrack.com/scscomed/parent
For kids like Gwen •
Because Gwen came to Children’s for the diagnosis and treatment of her blood disorder, she received the best care available thanks to ground-breaking research made possible by clinical trials for cancers and blood disorders. The research happening today will help lead to future cures, and it is happening here at Children’s of Alabama
WHAT WE DO:
Identify juveniles who are either at high risk for or already involved in substance misuse and provide them resources to make better choices for a healthy lifestyle while promoting mental wellness.
PREVENTION:
Compact’s Community Coalitions educate, engage, and empower their communities at the local level to prevent substance misuse and provide resources to those impacted.
INTERVENTION:
Our Intervention Team works to educate parents and students as well as locate youth who are at risk of, or involved in substance misuse or addiction, and provide them help and resources.
