OCTOBER 2019 | BHAMFUNANDFAMILY.COM | LITTLE BOOK, BIG RESOURCES!
TrunkOr
TREATS
LOCAL CHURCHES HOST EVENTS PAGE 22 PAGES 8 - 13
Private School
GUIDE
Walk to
END EPILEPSY PAGE 20
SEPTEMBER 28 - NOVEMBER 2 3 Located in Cullman, AL...
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PUBLISHER’S
NOTE
Welcome to October! Have you picked out your child’s Halloween costume yet? [Don’t worry...we haven’t, either!] We are so excited to finally have a new issue of Birmingham Fun and Family out this month, because this is the biggest issue we have produced in many years! I want to say a special thank you right up front to the businesses who are advertising with us — we believe that what we do is important, and that it benefits parents all over Birmingham. So, when you can, please thank our advertisers as well. Support them, because they’re supporting us all by keeping our local economy strong. School is nearly two months in, and some of you might be at a point where your child could benefit from different surroundings. Check out our first-ever Private School Guide starting on page 8, and perhaps you’ll learn about a school that fits your child’s needs. Are you expecting a baby but worried about how your pet might get along with the new addition? Our guest columnist, Abigail Witthauer, has advice for you on page 16. What is October without fall festivals and Trunk or Treat events? We talked with several churches around town and share their plans with you on page 22. Read about these and many other topics inside the pages of our October issue. Got an idea or question? I’d love to hear from you. I can be reached at matthew@jbmcmedia.com. Thanks for reading!
Matthew Allen Publisher and Dad
4 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com
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Trampolines
Commercial Playground Equipment
Play Sets
3165 Cahaba Valley Rd, Indian Springs [2 mi. from I-65]
408-4FUN | backyardalabama.com 6 Reach your market with(205) us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com
ABOUT US
Birmingham Fun and Family is published monthly by JBMC Media, LLC, P.O. Box 26432, Birmingham AL 35260. 14,000 copies are printed and distributed at more than 350 locations throughout Jefferson and Shelby Counties. DISTRIBUTION
If your business would like to make copies available to customers, please email matthew@jbmcmedia.com with your business name, address, point of contact, and number of copies you would like. ADVERTISING
To reach the largest audience of parents in Birmingham each month, partner with us. Email matthew@jbmcmedia. com to get started with a partnership that will be a key part of your plan.
O U R A DV E RT I S I N G PA RT N E R S These folks are the ones to thank for our magazine’s success — spend your money with them, and tell them you saw them in Birmingham Fun and Family! 2 17 32 15 27 6 15 39 19 40 7 13 12 31 24 31 33 33 27 29
D Farm ACE of Birmingham Aldridge Gardens Applause Dancewear BSC Conservatory of Fine Arts Backyard Adventures CakEffect Children’s of Alabama City of Hoover Compact2020 Cookie Cutters Hair Cuts for Kids Cornerstone Christian School Creative Montessori School Eyes on Chelsea Vision Care Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum Hoover Public Library Jackie O’Neal School of Dance Kasey Davis Dentistry Korduroy Krocodile Larry Moore, the Magic Man
Birmingham Fun and Family Magazine
McWane Science Center Painted Personalities Pediatric Smiles St. Rose Academy Shelby County Chamber of Commerce Shelby County Fair Sike’s Children’s Shoes / Jack n Jill Single Barrel Barber Shop The Altamont School The Crafters House The Great Pumpkin Patch The Grove School Then Again Children’s Consignment UAB Health System Urgent Care for Children Vineyard Family Services Virginia Samford Theatre Vulcan Termite & Pest Control WAY-FM Wee-Peat Boutique / LuLu’s Loft
bhamfunandfamily.com
24 29 27 11 18 25 3 18 9 19 28 10 17 21 5 23 3 29 38 23
RECYCLE ME!
Fun for Kids, Stress-Free for Parents! Safe, fun, friendly family feel Experienced staff members working with children of all abilities Indoor slide
Wide range of fantasy cars TV’s at each cutting station Lollipops & Balloons
Book Online haircutsarefun.com/Hoover-AL 1028 Marble Terrace, Suite 108, Hoover Stadium Trace Village, corner of Hwy 150 and I-459 205-377-2642
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Every child learns at their own pace and in their own way. Sometimes, private school is an option that parents pursue for their child. If you’ve been thinking about looking around, here are several options for you to consider.
B I R M I N G H A M P R I VAT E S C H O O L G U I D E
The Altamont School 4801 Altamont Road South Birmingham, AL 35222 altamontschool.org (205) 879-2006
Altamont is a small family of approximately 350 students in grades 5-12 with socioeconomic, ethnic, and religious diversity. Altamont is a good choice for students excelling in their present schools who want greater breadth and challenge in all areas of school life. We combine an intensive, college preparatory academic program with a personalized college search program. There are many opportunities for students to develop multiple talents by participating in arts, world languages, community service,
clubs, class projects, and athletics. Students also benefit from a 1-to-1 laptop program, an advanced computer science curriculum, and unparalleled service leadership opportunities through Altamont’s C. Kyser Miree Ethical Leadership Center. Altamont is located five minutes from downtown Birmingham on the crest of Red Mountain. Experience all that Altamont offers by attending an Open House or scheduling a campus tour.
Join us for an Open House! Sunday, Oct. 20 2:00-3:30 p.m. Learn more about one of the nation’s premier college preparatory schools for students in grades 5-12.
RSVP: altamontschool.org/admissions Shop local and support our advertisers! 9
B I R M I N G H A M P R I VAT E S C H O O L G U I D E The Grove School 7545 Parkway Drive Leeds, AL 35094 learningatthegrove.com (205) 352-0444 Mandy Fox first dreamed 18 years ago of starting a school whose mission and vision centers around finding a child’s strengths and using those to bring learning to life. So many schools focus on children’s weaknesses and improving them. The Grove School — the result of Mandy’s dream that opened in August 2019 — believes that God speaks to our strengths and uses those to build up our weak areas. By focusing on finding the dream that God has given them, The Grove School seeks to plant children in the life-giving source, God, and help them accomplish the dreams that God has given them. The Grove School allows children to learn
at their own pace while also challenging them. Students will master standards according to what they are ready to learn in the progression of our curriculum, not based on a grade level system because of age. Students move through standards based on readiness. If they are advanced in one area, they will be able to move beyond their grade level and work on the standards for that level. A list of standards for each level and the ones your child has mastered will be shared with the parent several times throughout the year through our online reporting system as well as Mastery Journals. Enrollment is open year-round. Parents can apply at learningatthegrove.com/admissions.
Education that brings life... Education brings life...Psalm 1:3 Educationthat that brings life... PsalmPsalm 1:3 1:3
Enrolling K-8th
Innovative, Christian Education grades for Enrolling Enrolling 2019-20 and www.learningatthegrove.com K-8th K-8thgrades 2020-21 7545 Parkway Drive Leeds, AL 35094 for grades2019-20 for and 205-352-0444 www.learningatthegrove.com 2020-21 2019-20 and www.learningatthegrove.com 7545 Parkway Drive Leeds, AL 35094 2020-21 205-352-0444 7545 Parkway Drive Leeds, AL 35094
Innovative, Christian Education Innovative, Christian Education 205-352-0444
10 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com
B I R M I N G H A M P R I VAT E S C H O O L G U I D E
Saint Rose Academy 1401 22nd Street South Birmingham, AL 35205 strosebhm.org (205) 933-0549 Saint Rose Academy is known to be the premier Catholic private school in Birmingham. In partnership with parents, our commitment to academic excellence in an environment permeated with faith, self-discipline, and an emphasis on virtuous living, allows our children to flourish in any academic setting in high school. Our strong math and English programs, as well as our state-of-the-art science lab, challenge each student to achieve their own personal excellence. Three-quarters of our teachers possess Masters degrees and demonstrate a strong commitment to the academic and spiritual formation of each child. From their earliest years in 3-year-old
Kindergarten through their 8th-grade year, Saint Rose students are offered personal knowledge and love of Jesus through the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd religious education model and ongoing religious formation through the Dominican Sisters of the Saint Cecilia congregation. Today the Sisters and the lay faculty and staff of Saint Rose continue to provide a sound Dominican education based on the truths of the Catholic faith and augmented by family values and high academic standards. Saint Rose has kept its family spirit, has been sustained by prayer and hard work, and has been supported by families and benefactors who are committed to the mission of the school.
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s
B I R M I N G H A M P R I VAT E S C H O O L G U I D E
Creative Montessori School 2800 Montessori Way, Homewood, AL 35209 cmskids.org, (205) 879-3278 Creative Montessori School (CMS) recently celebrated 50 years of excellence in Montessori education. Founded in 1968 by Barbara R. Spitzer, CMS is Birmingham’s first Montessori school; the first local private school to be racially integrated from inception; and the first to offer science, world geography, and foreign language to preschoolers. Convenient to downtown Birmingham and over-the-mountain suburbs, CMS offers an unparalleled private school education in a warm and loving Montessori atmosphere with a focus on the individual child. Our teachers value each child’s unique potential and nurture students’ inherent ability to meet challenges with divergent thinking skills, self-confidence, adaptability and resilience. Children at CMS learn the same things that children in a traditional school learn — plus
practical knowledge such as conflict resolution, social responsibility and environmental stewardship. It is how they learn and how they feel about learning that is quite different and truly valuable. Montessori classrooms foster intellectual curiosity by facilitating individualized, independent, purposeful work within a peaceful setting. The result is children who fall in love with learning. Students are allowed to learn at their own pace under caring and thoughtful guidance of a professionally trained Montessori teacher. CMS enrolls 250 students from 25 zip codes, located on a 2.5-acre campus in Homewood. Affordable tuition makes exceptional education accessible to families with diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Prospective parents are invited to call the administration office to schedule a tour.
Empowering children to reach their unique potential through a Montessori education. 205-879-3278 • www.cmskids.org • 18 months - 8th grade 12 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com
B I R M I N G H A M P R I VAT E S C H O O L G U I D E
Cornerstone Christian School 24975 Highway 25 Columbiana, AL 35051 cornerstonechargers.com (205) 669-7777
Twenty-two years ago, the foundation was laid for a new school in Shelby County. Today, Cornerstone Christian School serves nearly 200 students in grades K3-12. The non-denominational Christian School is a ministry of Bethel Baptist Church in Columbiana, and they serve families from throughout Shelby County and the Birmingham area. “My son has been attending CCS since K3. This is not a school, but a family,” reads a review from the Foster family in Harpersville. “We love all of our teachers and they are exceptional with each and
every child. We love the challenging curriculum, knowing that our son is being taught at the college prep level.” Cornerstone prepares students for the challenges awaiting them in life, while offering them a full school experience with several extracurricular activities and athletics including football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, softball, cheerleading, and track. Visit cornerstonechargers.com and click “admissions” to learn more and to schedule a personal tour of the school.
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Local business news BIRMINGHAM
HOOVER
The Birmingham locaiton of Pediatric Dental Associates, 1613 11th Avenue South, has merged with Just Kids Dental, and will operate under the Just Kids Dental name at their office, 2320 7th Avenue South.
Sky Zone’s location at 1694 Montgomery Highway in Hoover closed on August 12. The jump park operated for 2.5 years in that location.
justkidsal.com | (205) 251-1010 |
@JustKidsDentalAL
skyzone.com
PELHAM
CHELSEA and HOOVER Melissa Fehr has joined the staff of Child’s Play Therapy Center as a speech and language therapist, working with early intervention families. childsplaytherapycenter.com | (205) 978-9939 | @ChildsPlayTherapyCenter
Easterseals of the Birmingham Area celebrated the national organization’s 100th birthday in September at their pediatric therapy services location, 240 Commerce Parkway in Pelham. The nation’s largest nonprofit healthcare organization serves more than 1.4 million patients nationwide each year who live with disability.
HOMEWOOD
eastersealsbham.org | (205) 314-2165 | @EasterSealsBirmingham | IG: @EasterSealsBham
D-Bat Baseball & Softball Academy opens this month at 131 West Oxmoor Road, Suite 131. It is a 16,000-square-foot indoor facility for baseball and softball, featuring automated machines, instruction, cage rentals, and space for practices and parties, and more.
Have some business news you want to share? Submit it to matthew@jbmcmedia.com.
dbatswbirmingham.com | (205) 843-3228 | : @DBatSWBirmingham
NE
2nd Annual
V E R L AN D C AR N IVAL Sunday October 6 1-4 PM at the BJCC
Tickets available at bct123.org
14 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com
Birthday parties start here!
Celebrate your child’s birthday with us! • Custom designed cakes • Cupcake designing for party guests • Ice cream from The Whole Scoop • Photography and party rentals available 1021 Brock’s Gap Pkwy, Ste 109 Hoover, AL (205) 803-5669 | cakeffect.com
Komeh Davis, owner “Bakers vs. Fakers” star on
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GUEST COLUMNIST | ABIGAIL WITTHAUER
Babies and pups Getting off on the right paw
Congratulations, you’re expecting a baby! You’ve selected your delivery doctor. You’ve attended birthing classes. You’ve baby-proofed your home. You’ve set up the crib, washed all the clothes and bedding, and decorated the nursery. But what about your furry best friend? Have you ensured he is ready for baby? Did you know that vets and certified dog trainers strongly recommend that you and your dog begin preparing for your new family member in your first trimester? It’s true! There are a lot of things you can do with your dog to prepare for your new bundle of joy and it can significantly improve both your new child’s safety and your dog’s comfort and happiness. Many expecting parents are even registering for these dog/baby preparedness courses on their baby shower gift registries! The world’s leading specialists in dog and baby safety is Family Paws Parent Education (FamilyPaws.com). Their motto is “creating dog aware generations,” and they do this through Licensed Family Paws Parent Educators. These licensed educators are dog behavior experts specializing in dog and baby interactions and preparedness – and they have the credentials to prove it! April Shoe is a Licensed Family Paws Parent Educator right here in Birmingham, and you
Photo courtesy of Family Paws can find her at Roverchase in Pelham. In a Family Paws appointment with her, she will come to your house, help you set up your home for dog/child preparedness, and help you develop a detailed plan for creating a successful relationship between your dog and child. She goes over everything from the very moment you walk in the door with the baby carrier all the way through toddlerhood. So, whether you are an expecting parent, grandparent, godparent, aunt, or uncle – you should seriously consider giving the gift of safety by scheduling an appointment with a Licensed Family Paws Educator, which you can do online at www.familypaws.com.
Abigail Witthauer owns Roverchase in Pelham, Alabama, a luxury dog training, daycare, and boarding facility. She is one of the most certified canine behavior professionals in the Southeast and has been training animals professionally for 17 years. Abigail lives in Pelham with her spouse, Service Dog Macallan, pet dogs, hairless cat, ferret, and pet pig. Follow her on social media at @Mac.and.Abi. 16 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com
3659 Lorna Road #121 Hoover, AL 35216 (205) 987-3640
T H E N A G A I N C O N S I G N M E N T. C O M
Voted Hoover’s
BEST
consignment store!
T H E N A G A I N C O N S I G N M E N T. C O M
@aceofbirmingham @ACEofbirmingham @ACEofBHM
HOLIDAY CaMPS
Veterans Day - Nov. 11 Blizzard Bash - Dec. 23, Dec. 27, & Jan. 3 AFTER SCHOOL CARE Monday-Friday • • • • • •
Drop-Off & Pick-Up Healthy Snacks & Drinks Homework time Enrichment Activities Organized games Open play in bounce house • One weekly class included for full week participants
205-703-0902 www.acetribe.com
301 Snow Drive Birmingham, AL 35209
TUMBLING CLINICS
• Back Handspring Clinic - Nov. 16 • Tuck Clinic - Nov. 16 • All Level Tumbling Clinic Dec. 27
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Just for Dads Audiences
As I explained in my June blog, I’m a dance dad. The defined duties of a dance dad are to drive, pay, and clap. The reality show, “Dance Moms,” seems to indicate that the duty of a dance mom is to be a complete nutcase. The dance WARD teacher on the show, Abby Lee WILLIAMS Miller, is a wheelchair-bound, ex-convict who screams at both children and parents like a wild banshee. I asked my daughter and wife why anybody would want to be a part of that show? They both said people pursuing personal goals will put up with almost anything to have an audience with this wellknown dance teacher and perform at shows where people are watching. Attention is a powerful force. People want it, have always wanted it, and will want it in the future. I think as parents we must have discernment on who we allow our children to have an audience with or be influenced by. There will be teachers, coaches, or church leaders who can make positive life-changing impacts on our kids. Some adults will
Attention is a powerful force. People want it, have always wanted it, and will want it in the future. I think as parents we must have discernment on who we allow our children to have an audience with or be influenced by. leave little to no impact, but some can have negative impacts. They might be selfish, or just not helpful in assisting our children accomplish goals or having positive experiences. If you have ever listened to conversations at little league games, dance recitals, parent social media pages, etc., you will notice that we, as parents, can get our priorities way out of line. Don’t lose sight of what you are supposed to do. We are to be the best and most effective audience for our kids because we love them, have a long-term view of what is best for them, and are going to love them regardless of the size of the crowds who watch them. Ward Williams is the founder and executive director of Vineyard Family Services. Contact him at ward@vfsdads.com.
How Chamber membership works for me. Keep them looking their best all year long!
Great haircuts with personalized service Appointments preferred 1830 29th Ave S, Ste 140 SoHo in Homewood
(205) 582-2999 singlebarrelbarbershop.com
“Joining The Shelby County Chamber just may be the best decision we’ve made since we started. Everything this Chamber offers – business networking opportunities, one-on-one business consulting, workshops and the increased visibility we receive as investors – has benefited our company. We realize that making this annual investment is something we need to do to keep our business moving forward.”
Cindy Edmunds, agent, ARC Realty 969-8910 To learn how your business can benefit as a member, contact Chris Williams at (205) 6634542, ext. 103, or chris@shelbychamber.org.
18 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com
TEAM BUILD BY CREATING TOGETHER
LADIES LET’S GET CRAFTY
CHECK OUT
Our Upcoming Workshops TheCraftersHouse.com/BhamFam 3417A Old Columbiana Rd • Hoover, AL 35226
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Photo courtesy of Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama
Walk to
END EPILEPSY
By Matthew Allen
How many Alabamians would you think live with epilepsy? 5,000? 10,000? You might be surprised to learn that more than 54,000 Alabamians live with this disease, and it affects people of all ages. Research for epilepsy lags behind other serious disorders, and while more people live with epilepsy than Parkinson’s, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis combined, research dollars for the disorder lags behind those and several others. Studies show that, over a lifetime, 1 in 10 people will suffer from a seizure, and 1 in 26 will be diagnosed with epilepsy. Sara Franklin, who recently became executive director of the Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama, says the challenge,
as with any health-related cause, is awareness, understanding, and fundraising. “We are excited about our biggest annual fundraiser, the Walk to END EPILEPSY, November 2 at Railroad Park,” said Franklin. “This event further engages and mobilizes the community to be part of the fight to END EPILEPSY®.” Anyone can walk in the event, held 11am1pm on November 2. It’s a family-friendly event, and every person who walks helps the foundation get closer to its goal of raising $50,000 to help those Alabamians living with the disorder. To learn more and to register to walk, visit WalktoEndEpilepsy.org/birmingham, or contact Sara Franklin at sfranklin@efa.org for information about sponsorship opportunities.
20 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com
BECAUSE EVERY DELIVERY IS SPECIAL. Having a baby can be the most extraordinary time in a woman’s life, and UAB Women and Infants Services is there with everything from OB/GYN services to the only Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Alabama. We treat you with the highest level of personal care because we know nothing’s more important to you than your baby. So we’ll be there for you both.
WOMEN & INFANTS SERVICES uabmedicine.org/forward
UAB-KMMF-Women-Younger-Print-BhamFun&Family.indd 1
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9/16/19 2:10 PM
Fall Festivals at local chu rches
ALABASTER First United Methodist Church
10903 Highway 119 Trunk or Treat Sunday, Oct. 27, 3-5pm The Branch at Mission Hills 1669 Mission Hills Road Fall Festival Thursday, Oct. 31, 6-8pm Unity Christian Center 111 Edmondson Lane Truck or Treat Thursday, Oct. 31, 6:30-8pm Westwood Baptist Church
Sunday, Oct. 27, 4-6pm; PINSON special needs children may enjoy exclusive trunk-or-treat Solid Rock Church 5050 Pinson Valley Parkway time from 3:30-4pm Fall Festival North Shelby Baptist Church Wednesday, Oct. 30, 6:304100 Belcher Drive 8:30pm Fall Festival Sunday, Oct. 20, 4:30-7:30pm TRUSSVILLE Meadow Brook Baptist Church 4984 Meadow Brook Road Fall Festival Sunday, Oct. 27, 3-6pm
Clearbranch United Methodist Church 8051 Glenn Road Trunk or Treat Wednesday, Oct. 30, 5:30-8pm
The Church at VESTAVIA HILLS Chelsea-Westover 11063 Highway 280, Westover Shades Mountain Baptist Trunk or Treat Church Thursday, Oct. 31, 6-8pm 2017 Columbiana Road Fall Carnival HOOVER Wednesday, Oct. 30, 5-8pm Episcopal Church of the Holy Apostles 424 Emery Drive Trunk or Treat Sunday, Oct. 27, 4-7pm
The Church at Liberty Park 12001 Liberty Parkway Fall Festival Sunday, Oct. 27, 3-5pm
1155 Alabaster Boulevard Fall Fest 2019 Friday, Oct. 4, 5-9pm
Oakmont Chapel Presbyterian Church 1817 Patton Chapel Road Harvest Festival & Trunk or Treat Sunday, Oct. 27, 4-6pm
Vestavia Hills Baptist Church 2600 Vestavia Drive Fall Fest Sunday, Oct. 27, 5-7pm
HIGHWAY 280
LEEDS
Asbury United Methodist Church
First Baptist Church 7481 Parkway Drive Trunk ‘R Treat Sunday, Oct. 27, 3-5pm
Scan the code below from your smartphone to view more details on these events and more!
MT LAUREL
6690 Cahaba Valley Road Trunk or Treat
Double Oak Community Church 115 Olmsted Street Trunk or Treat Sunday, Oct. 27, 3-5pm
22 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com
Maternity Furniture Accessories Specializing in new and gently used clothing for newborns to pre-teens
Mon-Sat, 10-6 Sun, 11-3
5479 Hwy 280, Ste 124 | 205.874.6655
Vineyard Family Services Feeding Kids in Need, Promoting Responsible Fatherhood, and Helping Families in Crisis Donations help us: Feed children in need and provide other essential items Deliver family emergency food boxes Aid fathers and mothers with parenting programs Support incarcerated families and children Provide at-risk teens important life skills
www.vfsdads.com
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an
Evening
at
Hogwarts
Welcome to the Wizarding World of McWane! An Evening at Hogwarts is the perfect family event for the fall! It will include watching Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix in our IMAX® dome theater, dinner, Harry Potter themed snacks and drinks, a performance by Birmingham Improv Theater, and some exciting science programs! This event is appropriate for every ages, even for our littlest witches and wizards who may enjoy a night in the Itty Bitty *Magic* City. Come dressed in your best robes and be entered to win a Family Membership to McWane Science Center!
Visit www.mcwane.org for more details
ALL ABOARD
THE PUMPKIN PATCH EXPRESS! AT THE HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD MUSEUM IN CALERA
Every Saturday and Sunday in October
GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY: www.HODRRM.org 205-757-8383 24 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com
presented by
November 4-9
Shelby County Exhibition Center Columbiana $12 admission at the gate ~ $11 purchased online All rides included ~ FREE parking Gates open Monday-Friday 5:30; Saturday 3:00 Competitive exhibits Visit alshelbycountyfair.com for details ONLINE ONLY
SAVE $2 on gate cost of admission
Use code
BFAFSCF2019 alshelbycountyfair.com
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to Third-grader uses sewing skills to repair well-loved pet toys By Matthew Allen When Emma Borders saw a stuffed owl in her grandmother’s basket of dog toys, she couldn’t help but pick it up. “Owls are her favorite animals,” said Jessica Palmer Borders, her mother and an optometrist in Chelsea. “She was sad to see that the plush owl toy had been roughed up by her grandmother’s dog.” So, Emma, a third-grader, decided to use her sewing skills to repair the owl. Pretty soon, she was seeking out other stuffed dog toys to repair. “I put stuffing in them and put felt on the spots we cannot fix,” she says. “My mom taught me how to do it.” Emma’s hobby has grown into a desire to do good through her work. Her mother began sharing photos of the repaired toys on social media, and Emma’s desire to help repair old dog toys became a semi-regular activity. People offered to pay her, but Emma wouldn’t keep the money for herself. “She gives her money to Shelby Humane,” Jessica explains. “We adopted her fur siblings,
NEED A REPAIR? Cost: $3.50 per toy Where: Toys can be dropped off at Eyes on Chelsea Vision Care, located at 10699 Old Highway 280, Building 2, in Chelsea. When the toys are ready, they can be picked up or shipped (shipping costs apply.) Contact: ragstowags@gmail.com.
Chunk and Cricket, from there, so that is where she wants to donate her earnings.” Emma is offering simple sewing and stitching repairs to stuffed animal toys for $3.50 per toy plus the cost to ship it back to the owner. Or, toys can be dropped off at her mother’s office, Eyes on Chelsea Vision Care, and be picked up there when they’re ready. The office is located at 10699 Old Highway 280, Building 2, in Chelsea. For office hours, visit eyesonchelsea.com, or email ragstowags@gmail. com.
26 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com
DENTISTRY FOR INFANTS, CHILDREN, TEENS, AND THOSE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Tabitha Jarman Gatrey, DMD
4823 Promenade Pkwy Suite 101 | McCalla 205/230-9000
psmilesal.com
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Sept. 28 Nov. 3
28 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com
KI Prefer DS the
FUN
Magic
Show!
Larry Moore
The Magic Man!
(205) 516-9864 alamagicman@yahoo.com
Face painting and more for your next party! Face painting | Temporary tattoos | Henna (205) 907-0747 paintedpersonalities.com
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Review: Black Pearl Asian Cuisine When it comes to kids’ meals, you might normally think of mac and cheese or PB&J, but more kids (and parents) are taking a nontraditional route and choosing ethnic foods over greasy fried JOY foods. KING Black Pearl Asian Cuisine, at 3439 Colonnade Parkway off Highway 280, offers chicken fingers and fries, but they also feature sharable dishes such as Thai red curry chicken and rice. The spicy dish also has some veggies to make it a well-balanced meal. This Thai dish is peanut free and can be made with chicken, beef or pork as well as more veggies. Tofu is an option for vegetarians. Though this is a tasty dish, if you have active kids you’ll want to be aware that there is a mini candle in the bottom of the dish to keep the meal nice and warm. Some other sharable dishes at Black Pearl are drunken noodle, and of course the crowd favorite sesame chicken. Black Pearl is a great spot for families who want to dine out without breaking the bank, as they have very affordable prices. If you’re on the go they offer fast take out or you can order
online. They’re open seven days a week, too. Visit them online at blackpearlbirmingham.com, or call them at (205) 262-9888. You can also find them on Facebook. Joy King, a local foodie and all-around funny woman, embarks on a new monthly feature for Birmingham Fun and Family. Joy owns and operates Eat.Drink.Ride, a local food tour company. Learn more at diningoutwithcomediennejoy.com. Joy King, a local foodie and all-around funny woman, embarks on a new monthly feature for Birmingham Fun and Family. Joy owns and operates Eat.Drink.Ride, a local food tour company. Learn more at diningoutwithcomediennejoy.com.
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Contacts that you only wear at night? Check out the benefits of Ortho-K™ lenses. • • • • •
Contacts that reshape the front surface of your eye as you sleep. After wearing overnight, simply remove the lenses and enjoy clear vision without glasses or regular contact lenses. The effects are temporary, typically lasting only a few days, so they need to be worn on a nightly basis. Ortho-K™ has even been proven to slow the progression of nearsightedness (myopia) in children. The effects of Ortho-K™ are completely reversible with discontinued use. You will need your previous glasses or contacts to see clearly again afterwards.
10699 Old Hwy 280, Bldg 2 | Chelsea (205) 980-4530 | eyesonchelsea.com
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MEDICAL SPOTLIGHT
Healthcare
PROFESSIONAL Eyes On Chelsea offers three methods for controlling nearsightedness (myopia). Taking early steps to control myopia can help prevent vision-threatening complications. About Myopia Myopia grows at a rate of 0.50D per year – enough to need new glasses Myopia is linked to cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal detachments
BFFM: What is Myopia? Dr. Palmer: Myopia is nearsightedness. Nearsighted eyes are usually too long, which makes far away objects seem blurry. Just like feet get bigger and children get taller, the nearsighted eye gets longer over time, and children often need stronger glasses as their eyes continue to grow. Myopia tends to grow between ages 7-18.
BFFM: My child already wears glasses or contact lenses. Why control myopia? Dr. Palmer: Controlling myopia only prevents it from getting worse, as it can’t be cured. When the eye becomes more myopic, a person is at greater risk for
DR. JESSICA PALMER
At Eyes On Chelsea is located at 10699 Old Hwy 280, Bldg 2, in Chelsea. Call them at (205) 980-4530 or visit online at eyesonchelsea.com.
serious complications like cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal detachments. Preventative measures are critical. BFFM: What are my choices for myopia control? Dr. Palmer: Corneal Reshaping Contact Lenses: These are worn at night to change the cornea’s shape so the patient can see clearly without vision aids. They slow myopia by bending light. Soft Bifocal Contact Lenses: These lenses, usually worn by those age 40 and older, are also shown to slow myopia. Atropine: Using this eye drop once a day helps to slow down the progression of myopia.
ONE MONTH. TWO EVENTS.
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY. Mad Hatter’s Fairy Garden Tea Party OCTOBER 14, 11AM-1 PM Parents and grandparents bring your child or grandchild to this fun event! Decorate a small garden container, then have “tea” (finger sandwiches and desserts) while the container dries. We’ll play games, and don’t forget your hat!
$35 for Aldridge Gardens members; $40 for non-members Registration includes one adult and one child [4-12 years] Spots are limited.
OCTOBER 24 6 - 8 PM In the house for lecture, and on the grounds hunting spiders! Bring a Flashlight!! $15 for Aldridge Gardens members, $25 for non-members Registration includes one adult and one child [4-12 years] Spots are limited. 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover (205) 682-8019 | aldridgegardens.com
32 32 Reach Reach your your market market with with us us — — (205) (205) 617-9609 617-9609 or or matthew@jbmcmedia.com matthew@jbmcmedia.com
Join us for our 72nd year of dancing at Register now for fall! 3336 Rocky Ridge Plaza | Vestavia Hills (205) 822-6212 | jackieoneal.com
We aren’t just your dental team...we’re family.
589A Shades Crest Rd • Hoover • (205) 822-7277 • kaseydavisdentistry.com Shop local and support our advertisers! 33
Walk to fund local programs, services and advocacy November 2, 2019
Railroad Park, Birmingham, AL
Registration begins 10:00 AM, Walk starts at 11:00 AM WalktoEndEpilepsy.org/Birmingham For information, call: 205.453.8205
R EG I S T E R • D O N AT E • VO LU N T E E R • TA K E AC T I O N 34 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com
8th Annual
Thursday, October 10 th 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm
$50 Non-members $45 (Members of
Aldridge Gardens)
Rain Date Thursday, October 17 th.
The Taste of Hoover celebrates the variety of culinary styles found throughout our city. Enjoy an autumn evening strolling through Aldridge Gardens, listening to live entertainment, and of course, sampling delicious dishes from some of Hoover’s best restaurants and Aldridge Gardens’ preferred caterers.
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3530 Lorna Road | Hoover, AL 35216 | aldridgegardens.com Shop local and support our advertisers! 35
TasteOfHooverPoster2019.indd 1
7/10/19 5:59 AM
Product Recalls Few things are more frustrating than researching and shopping for items that we need for our children -- cribs, strollers, clothes, shoes, baby monitors...the list goes on and on -- and finally making the purchase, only to find out later that the item is being recalled. Product recalls can be mildly inconvenient, but they serve a good purpose by informing us of potential issues with the products that we have purchased. BFFM wants to keep you in the loop about products that have been recalled that you might have purchased for your family. The list below is up to date as of September 20. For more recent recalls, visit recalls.gov. Ragdoll & Rockets children’s loungewear POTENTIAL HAZARD: The children’s loungewear fails to meet the flammability standards for children’s sleepwear, posing a risk of burn injuries to children. REMEDY: Refund CONSUMER CONTACT: Call Ragdoll & Rockets at (888) 669-9313 from 11am-5pm Monday through Friday, email at recall2775@genexus.us with “Product Recall” as the email subject, or visit online at www.ragdollandrockets. com and click on the “Product Recall” tab at the top of the page for more information.
Beaufort Bonnet Company handmade knit dolls POTENTIAL HAZARD: A sewing needle was discovered in the stuffing of one of the handmade knit dolls, posing a puncture injury hazard. REMEDY: Refund CONSUMER CONTACT: Call The Beaufort Bonnet Company at (833) 964-1456 between 7:30am-4pm Monday through Friday, email info@ beaufortbonnetco.com, orvisit online at www.thebeaufortbonnetcompany. com and click on “Product Safety Recall” at the bottom of the page for more information.
Restoration Hardware children’s chairs and stools POTENTIAL HAZARD: Paint on the chairs and stools contain levels of lead that exceed the federal lead paint ban. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects. REMEDY: Refund CONSUMER CONTACT: Call RH at (800) 816-0969 from 8am-9pm Monday through Friday and 10am-7pm Saturday and Sunday, email at recall@rh.com, or visit online at www. restorationhardware.com and click on “Safety Recalls” at the bottom of the page.
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Product Recalls Pearhead Ubbi connection bath toys POTENTIAL HAZARD: The recalled toys can break and create a sharp point, posing laceration and choking hazards to young children. REMEDY: Refund or replace CONSUMER CONTACT: Call Pearhead collect at (718) 422-0592 from 8:30am-5pm Monday through Friday, email service@ubbiworld.com, or visit online atubbiworld.com and click on “Product Recall.”
Contigo kids’ water bottles POTENTIAL HAZARD: The water bottle’s clear silicone spout can detach, posing a choking hazard to children. REMEDY: Replace CONSUMER CONTACT: Call Contigo at (888) 262-0622 from 7am-4pm Monday through Friday, or visit online at www.gocontigo.com/recall for more information.
OCTOBER 4-6 OCTOBER 4-6 birmingham-jefferson birmingham-jefferson
Crate & Barrel push walkers
POTENTIAL HAZARD: Walkers can be damaged over time exposing sharp points and small parts, posing choking and laceration hazards to small children. REMEDY: Refund CONSUMER CONTACT: Call Crate and Barrel at (800) 451-8217 from 8am-8pm Monday through Friday and 8am-7pm Saturday and Sundays, or visit online at www.crateandbarrel.com and click on “Product Recall.” For more product recalls, visit recalls.gov.
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Walker is taking on life after cancer — looking forward to third grade! THE ALABAMA CENTER FOR CHILDHOOD CANCER AND BLOOD DISORDERS is committed to finding a cure for more than 1,500 children each year who come to us for care. At our Center, more than 300 dedicated pediatric healthcare professionals provide exceptional patient care, education and research.
They’re taking on life ... because we are COMMITTED to a CURE.
SICKLE CELL DISEASE Shop local and support our advertisers! 39
ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure
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Engaging the full spectrum of substance abuse in Shelby County
Submit an Anonymous Tip
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