To view this and previous issues in a digital flip version, scan the QR code with your phone’s camera.
Students who participate in Vestavia High School’s Vestavia News Network, a multifaceted program that offers hands-on experience for students interested in journalism, public relations, marketing, video production, and sports media, take on a range of responsibilities. From coordinating daily morning announcements to live-streaming school events, producing features about students and school programs, and collaborating on special video projects, these kids get real-life experience, while also learning valuable life skills—public speaking, teamwork, time management, communication, video production/ editing—that will benefit them in any career they choose.
Photograph courtesy of Vestavia News Network/Abby Jaillet
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Dear Readers,
EDITOR’S NOTE
Happy February! I hope your new year is off to a great start. While January can often feel a bit gray— and, this year, snowy!—the arrival of February always brings a burst of color, with its bright reds and pinks to help us celebrate this month of amore. We made it through the longest month of the year, and now it’s time to embrace the sweetness February offers.
Starting on page 16, we’re celebrating the season of love with fun heart crafts how-to that little hands can make, along with some of our best local bakeries for sweet treats the entire family will enjoy. It’s all about taking the time to savor the moments.
You’ll find other heartwarming stories throughout the magazine this month. In our Holy Moly Motherhood column, Alana Smith explores the idea of contentment (page 8) and how we can cultivate it in our busy, modern lives—such a great resolution for 2025. On page 10, Sean Dietrich
recalls the rich smell of newsprint and the lovely family memories it stirs up.
This month, we’re featuring two special programs at Vestavia and Homewood high schools. Check out the Vestavia News Network on page 12 to learn how students are getting firsthand journalism experience while producing TV and radio programs. On page 24, you can read about Patriot Perk, a coffee stand that’s run by a group of Homewood students, and how these kids are gaining real-life job experience in the process.
Here’s to a month full of love, inspiration, and all the sweet things that make life a little bit brighter. Enjoy February! Stephanie Gibson
Lepore, Content Director and Mom, stephanie@jbmcmedia.com
Holy Moly Motherhood Contentment p. 8
Sean of the South That newspaper smell p. 10
Celebrate Valentines ideas for kids p. 16
Food
Sweet treats from local bakeries p. 18
Schoolhouse
Update from the Hoover School District p. 27
Education
News from local schools p. 28
Happenings
February Events Calendar p. 30
NGDOMKIDS SPRING&SUMMER
FEATURE STORIES
Empowering Future Journalists Program gives real-world experience p. 12
Coffee Class
Java served with a side of joy p. 24
CONSIGNMENT SALE
Open to the Public:
Thursday, February 27 -- 8am-7pm Friday, February 28 -- 8am-6pm Saturday, March 1 -- 7am-noon (many items discounted 50%)
Featuring gently-used children’s clothing size ne wborn to “big kid” 18, children’s shoes (all sizes), baby equipment, bikes, spor ts equipment, toys, games, puzzles, and more!
A Tribute to a Legend Broadway GET THE DETAILS
The perfect Valentine date night! Birmingham Does Broadway
The Alabama Symphony Orchestra presents March 22, 2025 8:00 pm February 14, 2025 8:00 pm &
ARETHA: Song & Symphony
Performing some of Aretha Franklin’s greatest hits, such as Respect, Think, Chain of Fools, Natural Woman, and so much more!
FIND OUT MORE
Featuring guest vocalist, Capathia Jenkins
Contentment
Alana Smith
Contentment: Being in a state of peaceful happiness and satisfaction.
Man, that sounds wonderful. I’m not sure I’ve quite found that state, but it sounds wonderful nonetheless.
When I was about to start nursing school, I had a little one-bedroom apartment that I could barely make the rent on. It was nice enough and it was safe, but it was lacking so much that I envisioned for my future. When I wanted to take my dog for a walk, I would drive over to a nice, quiet neighborhood, and stroll down the street. I’d pass neat and tidy houses, with trees that I didn’t know the names of. Swings would be on porches, wreaths on doors, and bicycles left in driveways. It was the American Dream.
“When I get married, I am going to have kids in a house like that, on a street like this, with a yard in the back for you,” I’d tell my Jack Russell. “Then, I’ll be content.”
Today, almost 20 years later, I’m walking a different dog, down a similar street, living out what I pictured back then. But as I walk, I still think of goals I’m chasing and have thoughts of “when we aren’t paying for day care, we will do this…” and “when I have more time, I can do that…and then I’ll be content.”
I think we are all chasing contentment in some way. I know I am. I yearn to be satisfied and at ease. I hope that at some point in my life, after I’ve checked all the boxes and done all the things, that I’ll be parked on a lake pier somewhere, rocking my chair in contentment. I hope the wind is in my face and I’m thinking of how good fortune and hard work have led to a life well lived. I sure hope that’s how it plays out, anyhow.
But, why wouldn’t I be content now, instead of in the future? My kids are healthy. We have food on the table. I have a house to call home. A family. Some good friends. I have transportation to a job that isn’t too bad. I have a good dog that listens to me talk. The American Dream, right?
Yet, I find myself searching for the next thing most of the time. The next project for our house.
The next exciting addition to our lot. The next vacation. The next opportunity. The next challenge. I’ll finally reach the peak of something I’ve worked so hard for, and, shortly after, I’ll want to go just a little further, or make something just a little better. Some days, I’ll sit down on my porch and watch my kids play in the yard, and I’ll get a sweet glimpse of contentment. I really am happy and fulfilled, honestly. But then, I’m right back after whatever thing needs to be done or planned. I guess I just don’t like to be stagnant. And as a mom, we are all just really busy tending to everyone. But even more than that, maybe it’s just human nature—our desire to constantly move forward. To improve. To better our situation for ourselves and the ones who depends on us. I don’t really think that’s a bad thing, when I think of it like that. Maybe I need to focus less on the end goal and more on the journey. Because when I’m finally sitting in the rocking chair on the pier, the journey—with its struggles and its growth—will be all that’s left to think about. And surely then, I will be content.
xoxo, Holy Moly Motherhood
Alana Smith 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.
The Feel of a Real Newspaper
BY SEAN DIETRICH
Newspapers have a smell. If you’re lucky enough to find a physical newspaper in our digital world, you’ll notice the smell first. Fresh newsprint paper. SoySeal ink. Still warm. It’s a unique scent.
I grew up throwing newspapers. Not on a bicycle. My mother and I threw newspapers, riding in her beat-up Nissan. We threw papers every day of the week. Weekends. Holidays. Rainy weather. Snow. Thanksgiving. Christmas Eve.
Our mornings went as such:
Sean Dietrich
We awoke at 2:30 a.m. We arrived at West Marine at 3. Whereupon a delivery truck would pull up, carrying a pallet of the “Northwest Florida Daily News.” The pallet was about the size of an average Hardee’s.
Then, Mama and I would hole up in her car, wrapping newspapers while eating breakfast. Usually, Pop Tarts, or ham sandwiches.
Wrapping was the hardest part. You had to roll each paper into a tight tube. Then you shoved the paper into a tubular plastic sleeve which was about the same circumference as a No. 2 pencil.
Once a newspaper was wrapped, you tossed it into the backseat, where your kid sister sat. She had pigtails. She was busily wrapping newspapers of her own.
Your hands would look like a coal miner’s. There’s not much on the radio at 3 in the morning. But if you didn’t mind AM, you could listen to classic reruns of Paul Harvey. We were big Paul Harvey fans.
When we finished, the backseat was so weighted with newspapers, the rear axle sagged against the pavement, shooting sparks into the night at full speed.
My sister rode in back, buried in rolled-up newspapers. I rode up front, reciting the current list of subscribers.
And this is where the real work began. We all had roles. Mama was pilot. Kid Sister was munitions. I was tail gunner.
I would crank down the window and throw newspapers across Northwest
Florida. We delivered several hundred billion each morning. Sometimes more.
We sped through neighborhoods, throwing. The morning-shift cops knew us by name, and never pulled Mama over for speeding. She took corners on two wheels. We called her Mama Earnhardt.
Occasionally, we’d park and throw papers on foot. We’d walk the breezeways of apartment buildings, tossing armfuls of newsprint.
We stocked news vending machines. We wore heavy satchels, weighed with papers, and dropped them at people’s doorsteps. We delivered to hotels. Offices. You name it.
We also received complimentary papers. And we always read them. Front to back. After all, this was our product.
One Sunday morning, after throwing papers, the sun was rising. We parked in front of Winn-Dixie, eating donuts and drinking coffee.
My sister was reading the funnies. Mama was reading the want ads. I was reading a column written by a humorist. And I remember saying aloud, “One day, I want to write for newspapers.”
My mother lowered her paper. Her face was tired for a young widow.
“One day,” she replied, “maybe you will.”
Yesterday, I picked up a copy of a local paper. I saw my name in print. Beneath the byline were 600 poorly written words. Suddenly, I could hear Paul Harvey’s voice on a scratchy Nissan stereo. I could taste Pop Tarts and coffee. I could smell the newsprint.
Because, as I say, newspapers have a smell.
Empowering Future Journalists
A high school program launches future media pros.
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE
At Vestavia Hills High School, students are given a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of journalism through the Vestavia News Network (VNN), a student-run initiative that brings the school community together through daily morning announcements, special video projects, and even live sports coverage. Whether a student is passionate about journalism, video production, or sports broadcasting, VNN offers a platform to hone skills and prepare for careers in media and communications.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF VESTAVIA NEWS NETWORK/ABBY JAILLET
VNN has been a cornerstone of the school’s Entertainment and Media Pathway for more than a decade, created by teacher Deana Goodwine, and an integral part of the school’s academic and extracurricular offerings. Under the guidance of various advisers, including Morgan Jones and, now, Abby Jaillet, VNN has grown into a multifaceted program that offers hands-on experience for students interested in journalism, public relations, marketing, video production, and sports media.
Students in ninth through twelfth grades are eligible to join VNN by enrolling in one of the school’s entertainment and media classes. Once in the program, students take on a range of responsibilities to keep the student body informed of happenings, from coordinating daily morning announcements that air throughout the VHHS main campus to live-streaming school events, producing features about students and school programs, and collaborating on special video projects. For students with an interest in communications and media, VNN is an ideal opportunity to gain experience in a professional environment. “As the program’s current adviser, my goal is to help students develop skills that will equip them for their futures,” says Abby. “Public speaking, teamwork, time management, communication, video production/editing— these are all important skills that will be beneficial to students in just about any career.”
Many of the students in VNN also participate
CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
Through a collaboration with the Vestavia Hills Athletics Department, VNN participants can pursue an internship, where they’ll experience sports broadcasting, game-day operations, video production, and photography.
VNN students produce daily morning announcements, special video projects, and—most recently—a podcast.
in an internship with the Vestavia Hills Athletics Department. This collaboration has proven to be a huge success and is a highlight for those involved. “Through this program, students gain realworld experience in the areas of sports broadcasting, game-day operations, video production, and photography,” says Abby. “If you attend a sporting event at VHHS, you will likely see our interns operating cameras, running the video board, taking pictures, or controlling the lights and music. This program was started two years ago, and it has really taken off!” The first class of interns graduated in May 2024, and some of those same students now hold paid internships and positions in sports photography and video production at SEC schools.
Additionally, VNN students are continuously expanding the scope of their work. In the past year, the students launched their
Adviser Abby Jaillet says the skills VNN students learn, like public speaking, teamwork, time management, communication, and video production/editing will be beneficial no matter which careers they pursue.
own podcast, “Rebels on the Rise,” which highlights student leaders involved in different organizations at VHHS. This new venture reflects the program’s commitment to keeping the student body informed, while also offering a creative outlet for students interested in producing long-form content. The podcast, available on Spotify, showcases the diverse voices and talents within the school community and is another example of how VNN is always evolving to meet the interests of its members.
The Vestavia News Network offers students an invaluable opportunity to develop skills that will serve them well in whatever career path they choose. The program’s growth and success over the past decade is a testament to the dedication of the students, faculty, and the VHHS community. With so many opportunities for hands-on experience and real-world learning, VNN is helping shape the next generation of media professionals, journalists, and communicators.
To stay connected with VNN, follow them on Instagram @vhhsvnn.
alabamarelay.com/sts
Homemade Valentines
All the heart eyes for these very easy and versatile kid crafts!
Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion for children to get creative and express their love with homemade crafts. These “heart”felt creations not only brighten up the day, but they also serve as meaningful keepsakes for family and friends.
Homemade Valentine hearts offer endless opportunities for creativity with simple materials you likely have on-hand in your craft closet (paper, paint, etc.). The beauty of crafting at home is that it allows children to tap into their imagination and develop important skills like fine motor coordination, pattern recognition,
Shaving Cream Hearts
You’ll need
Shaving cream
Craft tray
Washable paint
Wooden skewer
Watercolor paper
Squeegee or plastic ruler
Scissors
Add shaving cream to craft tray, then add paint in desired colors in long lines on top of shaving cream. (To get a saturated look, use more paint. To achieve a marbled effect, use less.)
Use a wooden skewer to swirl paint around in a marble effect.
Place a sheet of watercolor paper on top of the shaving cream and lightly press. Remove paper and wipe off excess shaving cream in a vertical motion with a squeegee or plastic ruler. Repeat with more paper, adding paint as needed. Allow shaving cream paint to dry completely, placing books over dried prints to flatten, if necessary.
Once dry, use a heart template or freehand cut heart patterns from the papers.
and attention to detail. Plus, the joy of giving something they’ve made with their own hands adds a special touch to the celebration.
These crafts also provide a fun bonding activity for families, encouraging teamwork and shared moments of joy. Whether it’s creating a pile of heart-shaped cards to hand out, making heart garlands to decorate the house, or even scattering them in secret spots for a scavenger hunt, crafting homemade Valentines is a meaningful way for children to connect with the spirit of the season.
Blow Paint Hearts
You’ll need
Food coloring or liquid watercolors
Watercolor paper
Plastic straws
Thin desired shades of food coloring with water in small bowls or glasses, or add liquid watercolors to small bowls.
Help younger children or direct older ones to dip their straw in the desired color, holding it in with their finger pressed to the top of the straw, then removing their finger to drip-drop paint onto paper.
Use the straw to “blow” the paint around the paper. Repeat with desired colors until paper is full of color.
Allow paint to dry completely, then cut out hearts from paper.
Tips: Cutting the straws shorter reduces the effort of blowing. You can also cut a small hole near the top of the straw so younger kids don’t accidentally suck up paint. Be sure the colors are watery enough to be blown.
Watercolor Hearts
You’ll need
Scissors
11 x 15 watercolor paper
Watercolor paints
of water
Measure and cut out a heart template (approximately 4.75 x 5.25 inches) from a piece of watercolor paper. Trace the template with a pencil onto a full sheet of paper. (You can fit more hearts if you alternate the direction of the template.)
Paint patterns and designs onto the hearts, blending colors as desired. Be sure to paint a little over the pencil lines of each heart.
Allow paint to dry completely before cutting out hearts. (Painting over the pencil lines gives each heart a clean edge once cut.)
Brush
Glass
Sweet Treats for Your Valentine
Stop by one of these local spots for a dessert that’s sure to please!
Bandit Pâtisserie
Located in downtown Birmingham, Bandit co-owners Kristen Hall and Lacy Triplett pride themselves on small-batch, seasonal pastries, cakes, and other treats. The special-order “Lover” mini-cakes are delightful.
Birmingham boasts tons of local talent of all kinds, and bakers are no exception. In fact, we have some of the most beautifully curated confections and delicious desserts around, produced from small shops and family-owned bakeries. Try them out for your Valentine’s Day sweets this year—we guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
Continental Bakery continental-bakery.com
Cookie Fix banditbham.com cookiefix.com
Carole Griffin opened her beloved French bakery in English Village more than 40 years ago. She’s known for her artisanal breads and pastries, inspired by the French baker Lionel Poilane. The iced shortbread cookies absolutely melt in your mouth.
Wife and mother of three Amy Jason turned her love of baking cookies into a fan-favorite shop that serves fresh-baked cookies and sells frozen dough in a variety of flavors. The texture sets these apart, with a baking process that yields tall, crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-onthe-inside cookies. The Strawberry Tea Cake is a huge hit during love season.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BANDIT PÂTISSERIE FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF COOKIE FIX FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF CONTINENTAL BAKERY FACEBOOK
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Samford alum Mallory Webb Mason worked as a barista at much-loved and now-closed local cafe Urban Standard, eventually taking over as head baker. Experimenting with her own version of a “naked” cake earned a huge following. A four-cup tasting box is the perfect way to find a favorite flavor.
K&J’s Elegant Pastries
daughtersbaking.com kjselegantpastries.com
Owner Krystal Bryant, along with her husband, Jonathan, opened K&J’s in Alabaster in 2013 before moving to downtown Birmingham in 2021. There, she combines her love of food and art to create delicious masterpieces like colossal milkshakes and Valentine-worthy chocolate-covered strawberries.
An Alabama staple since 1998, Terry and Dottie Smith’s Edgar’s Bakery is known for its delicious treats made with quality ingredients—especially the strawberry cake! The bakery now boasts 11 locations throughout the state, plus they ship through Goldbelly to lucky recipients all over the country. Petite petit fours are a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
Mary Ramos took over this Pelham bakeshop, a fixture since 1981, several years ago, continuing the local legacy of beautiful cakes and confections, decorating classes, and supplies from sprinkles to cake boxes. A very Valentine cake is the perfect family finish to February 14th.
PHOTOGRAPH
PHOTOGRAPH
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF EDGAR’S BAKERY FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF LOUISE’S CAKES & SUPPLY FACEBOOK
Pastry Art Bake Shoppe
A hobby turned passion led Carol Gregg to a baking profession when she and husband Dennis opened Pastry Art Bake Shoppe in Homewood. Their signature Baby Bites—one-bite cakes frosted similar to a petit four—deliver big flavor and receive big love from customers. You won’t find a baby shower nearby without them!
A Birmingham landmark for 85-plus years, Savage’s first opened in 1939 on Highland Avenue and later moved to its current location in downtown Homewood. Van Scott, Jr., purchased the bakery in 1978, briefly retiring in 2021 before returning to run the establishment in 2024. Savage’s is still well-known for their Meltaways, birthday cakes, and flaky rolls, and, for big and little kids, their Smiley Face Cookies. Grab a dozen in pink-frosted heart form for the holiday.
This small-batch cinnamon roll company, created by Katie Cornutt in 2019, was a way for Katie to work from home when her third child, Lyla, was born with a severe heart defect. She uses a family recipe inspired by her Grandma Schumm as the base for both sweet and savory rolls. Grab a pan of the sprinkle-topped confections for a Valentine’s Day breakfast!
Tee’s Cakes & Pastries
teescakesandpastries.com
With more than 25 years of experience, the Tee’s team delivers the freshest, most delicious treats in Chelsea and beyond. They specialize in birthday cakes, fondant designs, cupcakes, wedding cakes, pastries, and specialty designs, and their Valentine treat boxes promise a taste test that will have you coming back for more.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF PASTRY ART BAKE SHOPPE FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SAVAGE’S BAKERY & DELI FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ROLLS. BAKERY FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF TEE’S CAKES & PASTRIES FACEBOOK
Java Joy
Homewood
High School students brew something special every Friday.
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE
IMAGES COURTESY OF BAILEY COFIELD
When you visit Patriot Perk, you’re not just grabbing a great cup of coffee— you’re stepping into a place where joy is served as generously as the java. But there is so much more brewing behind the counter than delicious drinks!
The student-run coffee stand at Homewood High School began in November 2022. Patriot Perk’s baristas are students with intellectual and developmental disabilities who work the stand as part of Homewood’s Life Skills class. “The vision was to empower students’ abilities by teaching valuable employment and independent living skills,” says Life Skills teacher Bailey Cofield, who has overseen the program since its inception. “And also starting off your Friday with the best cup of coffee around town!”
Patriot Perk opens each Friday—“or FriYAY, as our students call it,” says Bailey, where the student employees serve and visit with their customers. “They look forward to Patriot Perk all week to be able to interact with their peers and staff around the high school. We have some very loyal customers who have supported us from the start of this journey.”
In return, school-based employment allows the students to grow their work experience, which can lead jobs in the future. “We want to help our students grow in their confidence,” says Bailey.
“Employment is one of the biggest barriers our students face after high school. Patriot Perk teaches them valuable work and independent living skills that will take them far beyond the walls of our school.”
She notes that students take their role with Patriot Perk seriously. Come Friday, you can find them behind the counter, helping someone choose a favorite creamer, working the register, and starting a customer’s day with a compliment. “We have seen our students grow in skills that reach beyond the classroom,” says Bailey. “We could not be more proud of them.”
Gwin Recognized by State AG
Harriet W. Gwin Elementary was honored by Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall as a 2024 Silver Model of Enhanced School Safety. Gwin was among six schools across Alabama to receive this accolade, following a rigorous application and review process. The Silver Model designation acknowledges schools that not only meet but exceed state standards for safety, mental health, and student learning.
Spelling Bee District Champion
HCS announces its district spelling bee winner, Snigdha Pati from Deer Valley Elementary, and runner-up, Madison Howze from Bumpus Middle. Snigdha will now proudly represent HCS at the Jefferson County Spelling Bee. School spelling bee winners from around the district were Harper Till, Bluff Park; Snigdha Pati, Deer Valley; Prima Pumilia, Green Valley; Oliver Li, Greystone; Victoria Duong, Gwin; Eesha Bandi, Riverchase; Truwyn Robinson, Rocky Ridge; Tom Teza, Shades Mountain;
Kamel Jordan, Trace Crossings; Carson Schroeder, Brocks Gap; Molly Wells, Berry; Madison Howze, Bumpus; and Tyler Cole, Simmons.
Mountain Brook Announces Teachers of the Year
Teacher of the Year nominations are submitted by students, faculty members, and parents from each school and school community. Each of the six Mountain Brook City Schools selected a teacher to represent the school.
2024–25 Teachers of the Year
Nominees: Amanda Potaczek (Brookwood Forest); Barbara Parker (Cherokee Bend); Lauren Anson (Crestline); Bill Andrews (Mountain Brook Elementary); Brittany Henegar (Mountain Brook Junior High); Jane Ganey (Mountain Brook High).
“To be recognized by colleagues, students, and parents as a Teacher of the Year is a tremendous honor,” says Mountain Brook Schools Superintendent Dr. Dicky Barlow. “Each one of our six teachers of the year has unique qualities that set them apart in their buildings and it is special for them to be honored in this way. After talking to each of them and hearing about their passion for teaching and learning, I’m inspired by our faculty and staff. I feel honored to work with such special people who make our schools a great place to work and learn.”
Superintendent Named National Finalist
Alabaster City Schools Superintendent Dr. Wayne Vickers was named a national finalist for the prestigious Leader of Distinction Award. The accolade was bestowed on Dr. Vickers by the District Administration Leadership Institute (DALI) at its annual summit. DALI recognized Dr. Vickers’ leadership through his cutting-edge strategies, which have helped launch Alabaster’s first workforce development center, the ACS Champions Craft Academy, scheduled to open this year.
Dr. Vickers has been a superintendent for nearly two decades spanning three school systems. He currently serves as President of the School Superintendents of Alabama (SSA) and is also a member of the national Executive Committee of AASA - the School Superintendents Association.
Principal Named at Pelham High School
Pelham City Schools announced Sabrina Tutchtone as the principal of the high school. Tutchtone brings 30 years of experience, including more than 20 years in the classroom and coaching, along with seven years as an assistant principal at Pelham High. Since joining the school in 2012, she has been a leader in advancing student success, fostering a positive school culture, and guiding key initiatives that benefit the school community.
“Ms. Tutchtone’s extensive experience as an educator, mentor, and leader, combined with her deep understanding of the school’s unique strengths and needs, makes her the ideal choice to lead Pelham High School into the future,” says Superintendent Dr. Chuck Ledbetter. “Over the years, she has consistently demonstrated enthusiasm for implementing initiatives that create meaningful and lasting impacts. I am confident that her leadership will continue to elevate Pelham High School and drive its ongoing success.”
Vestavia High Earns Silver Recognition
Vestavia Hills High School was named a Silver recipient on the 2024 AP School Honor Roll. This acknowledgment, awarded annually by the College Board, celebrates schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to Advanced Placement (AP) access and student success.
The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while also broadening access. estavia Hills
High School has met rigorous criteria in three key areas: College Culture, College Credit and College Optimization.
“We are thrilled and thankful for our incredible AP teachers and students. These recognitions reflect the tremendous effort and expertise that reflect our high standard of excellence at VHHS,” says Principal Blair Inabinet, Ed.D.
The Biggest Little House in the Forest Saturdays in February
Head to Birmingham Children’s Theatre to see this show written by Rosanna Staff and based on the book by Djemma Bider. The play is recommended for ages 0-5 years old and runs approximately 40 minutes. For more information and tickets, visit bct123.org.
Winter Jam
February 16
World Vision presents the Winter Jam Tour Jam 2025 Tour, founded by Newsong and produced by TPR. Christian music’s biggest tour will feature performances by Skillet, Anne Wilson, KB, Colton Dixon, Newsong, Micah Tyler, and speaker Zane Black. For more information and tickets, visit bjcc.org.
2025 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Kids Marathon
February 22
It’s an exciting day of fun and fitness at this event designed for children kindergarten through 5th grade, encouraging them to embark on a five-month endurance journey that culminates in a marathon experience. During the time leading up to race day, participants will run a total of 25.2 miles in manageable increments, building up to completing the final mile of the full marathon distance on the big day. There is still time to get those miles in! For more information, visit bcbsalkidsmarathon.com.
LEGO Club
February 22
Bring your kids kindergarten through fifth grade to the Homewood Publix Library, and let their imaginations run wild as they build awesome creations during an afternoon of LEGOs.
Sensory Bins & Sisie
February 24
Join the Leeds Jane Culbreth Library for an afternoon of sensory activities with Sisie, a certified, insured, and trained therapy dog. Sisie soothes young children and listens to any stories they might want to read to her. Drop in to read and enjoy themed sensory bins and calming activities. For more information, visit leedsalabama.gov.
Cottontail’s Village Festival 2025
February 28-March 2
Cottontail’s, a division of Christmas Village Festival, brings families and friends together to celebrate spring. This year’s show will feature more than 200 booths of vendors from across the country offering a variety of arts, crafts, clothing, food, and jewelry. It will be held at the BJCC North, South, and East Exhibition Halls. For more information, visit cottontailsfestival.com.
Alabama Ballet Presents Peter Pan
February 28-March 3
Let Alabama Ballet sweep you up on an adventure of pirates and pixies, flying preteens, mermaids, crocodiles, and more in this delightful adaptation of J.M Barrie’s cherished tale. Choreographed by Christopher Stuart and with music by Stephen Warbeck, this family-friendly production is full of glittering costumes and stunning sets. For more information and tickets, visit birmingham-theater.com.
Mardi Gras Gala Fundraiser for the Shelby County Arts Council
March 1
The Federated Women’s Clubs of Columbiana will host the second-annual Mardi Gras Gala benefiting the Shelby County Arts Council (SCAC) at Grande Hall in Columbiana. This year, the incredible lineup includes Dollar Bill as emcee for the night, dinner catered by The Fish Market Hoover, plus a live auction and dancing to Matt DeVine & The Big Greasy Brass Band. Proceeds raised from this event support SCAC programs such as Writing Stories, Art Therapy with the Arc of Shelby County, and scholarship funding for SCAC classes and programs. Let the good times roll! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit shelbycountyartscouncil.com/2025-mardi-gras-gala.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ELIZABETH GRANDY
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.
