TH E PR E M I E R PA R E NTI N G M AGA Z I N E FO R C E NTR A L A L A BA M A
J U LY / AUG UST 2021
THE
CHARTER SCHOOL CHOICE
GIVE SPORTS A CHANCE:
10 LESSONS TO LEARN
FINDING
THE RIGHT PRESCHOOL
FOR YOUR FAMILY
ANNOUNCING
THE 2021 FAMILY FAVORITES AWARD WINNERS
MORE CONNECTION
MORE ADVENTURE
SUMMER OF
MORE
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birminghamparent.com | 3
ed note GO BACK TO SCHOOL WITH BIRMINGHAM PARENT!
What a difference a few months make! No, we are not Covid-free, but things are better, and the event we had planned to be virtual – our annual Happy Healthy Kids Fair – is now a live, outdoor event on August 7 at the Outlet Shops of Grand River from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. As always, admission is free. Our sponsors and vendors will be in tents right out front at the Outlet Shops of Grand River to share information with you, offer great products, fun giveaways, and much more! We’ll have some fun games and prizes from Deborah’s Party Rentals, and Christy Pierce Photography will be making headshots for our 2021 COVER KIDS SEARCH. Make a $5 contribution or more to Children’s of Alabama as it celebrates 110 years of service, and Christy will share the digital copies of her headshots. We’ll use a photo of your child online as we select future cover models for Birmingham Parent. Joe Lockett, of the Joe Lockett Show, 92.5 FM – WYDE, will be there at 11 a.m. with his annual school supplies giveaway to help anyone in need in the community, and don’t miss the 200 swag bags Birmingham Parent will give away at our booth full of prizes and coupons! This issue also features our 2021 Family Favorites Award Winners! You nominated and chose the winners, and this is a great list to keep all year long. When you see that Family Favorites logo, you know a business or service was very special to many, many people, so much so that they took the time to vote for them. We also have some great back-to-school articles, including a great roundup of existing and new charter schools in the area and a good look at exactly what a charter school is. Is your middle schooler hard to talk to? We have some tips for communication. Is your child considering playing a sport this year? We explore 10 lessons kids can learn from sports. As we hold our breath upon another school year, hopefully post-Covid, we hope your kids have a great year full of good health, learning and fun!
P.O. Box 326 (add 800 Hwy. 52 E. for pkg) Helena, AL 35080 205-624-2405 205-403-5224 FAX www.birminghamparent.com
editorial PUBLISHERS David & Carol Evans EDITOR Carol Muse Evans ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lori Chandler Pruitt CONTRIBUTORS Paige Townley Cheryl Maguire Dr. Marie Pittman Kerrie McLoughlin Jan Pierce Elena Epstein
sales
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Tom Gonzales SR. MARKETING CONSULTANT Kayla Fricks MARKETING CONSULTANT Stacey Spence
art & production ART DIRECTOR Keith Dunn DISTRIBUTION T&P Deliveries LEGAL COUNSEL Balch & Bingham LLP
Carol Muse Evans publisher/editor carol@birminghamparent.com
ABOUT THE EDITORS: Carol Muse Evans is the publisher/editor/owner of Birmingham Parent magazine, a publication she and her husband David began in 2004. The Birmingham, Alabama-based parenting publication attracts more than 60,000 readers monthly in a four-county area and receives 10,000 hits per month on its website. The magazine has a 20,000+ print circulation, plus several thousand in readership of the digital edition online. It is the only independently audited free publication in our area. Evans is an award-winning writer and editor who has also has written for several other publications as a freelance writer since the late 80s. She is a graduate of Auburn University in journalism and is a graduate of Scottsboro High School. She is married with two grown children and lives in Alabaster. She is a member of Alabama Press Association and Southeastern Advertisers and Publishers Association (SAPA). Lori Chandler Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent. She also is a freelancer for Business Alabama magazine and has written/edited for several other publications. This award-winning writer and editor is a graduate of the University of Alabama in news/editorial and Hueytown High School. She is married with two children.
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BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN200694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2021 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2020/2021 by Evans Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial submissions are welcome. For back issues, please send a self-addressed 10” x 13” envelope with $4 for postage and handling.
birminghamparent.com | 5
contents
our focus
our features
BAC K TO S C H O O L BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S 2018
The School Choice........26 happyhe alCharter thykidsfair Visit these Vendors at the Happy Healthy Kids Fair August 7.........30 Give Sports a Chance................... 34 Finding the Right Preschool for your Family.......................................36
28
10
36
Announcing the 2021 Birmingham Parent Family Favorites Winners
10 11
The Power of One: One Place Metro Alabama Family Justice Center................................................40
our regulars EDITOR’S NOTE Go Back to School with Birmingham Parent!...........................4 PRODUCTS WE LOVE: Great Summer Products from NAPPA...................................................7 SHORT STUFF.................................. 8 FAMILY TRAVEL: Bryson City, North Carolina ................................ 42 ASK THE SPECIALIST Swimming Safety for Children....46 JULY/AUGUST 2021 CALENDAR OF EVENTS .......................................49
Family Favorites.......................... 10 Birmingham Parent Wins APA Media Awards for Best Website, Best House ad for 2020.............. 24
We all have our favorites, and so do you. But if you need a suggestion or a fresh idea, a friend or family member can give us great ideas by sharing THEIR favorites. That’s what our Family Favorites Awards program is all about.
Family Fun.................................... 12
42
Parties, Activites & Learning..... 12 Businesses & Services................ 13 Health & Wellness....................... 16
ON THE COVER: Our last cover kid winner of 2020, Skylar of Mount Olive, age 7, is a girly girl who also loves playing basketball. (See her little brother Eli, age 3, in the calendar section with her.) Photo by Christy Pierce Photography, www.christypiercephtographyllc.com, 205-902-0385. 6 | birminghamparent | JULY / AUGUST 2021
PROD U CTS WE LOV E
GREAT SUMMER PRODUCTS FROM NAPPA By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards
3D Glow Spin Art Station
Capture your little artist’s imagination with this unique swirl art machine that includes fun 3D-glasses to make your painting come to life! $24.99, ages 6+, https://www.kohls. com/product/prd-4898625/discovery-kids-3d-glow-spin-artstation.jsp
SplashEZ Educational Sprinkler Pool
This 3-in-1 splash pad/sprinkler pool offers fun and learning in the sun. Features whimsical animals, letters and colors. $39.99, ages 12 months+, https://www.amazon.com/gp/ product/B07MNMT3M7
Miffy Cool to Be Kind Plush
Features the beloved children’s book character in a fresh, modern palette and a positive message, “It’s cool to be kind” in colorful embroidered letters. $15.95, ages 24 months+, https://douglascuddletoy.com/
Spläsh
Perfectly sized for infants and toddlers to splish and splash anywhere. Just pour water, using the foldable bucket. $29.99, ages 6m+, https://bbluvgroup.com/product/splash-babypaddling-pool/
Sunkitö
Designed to protect your child from the sun, sand, wind and mosquitoes on family outings. $49.99, ages: 0-36 months, https://bbluvgroup.com/product/ sunkito-anti-uv-pop-up-play-ten Title
For more product reviews, please visit www.nappaawards.com birminghamparent.com | 7
S H O RT STU FF
CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH IS POOREST AMONG AMERICAN ADULTS IN THE SOUTHERN U.S.
Vaping is on the rise among American teens. A recent study by “The Truth Initiative” found that 27.5% of American high school students use vape products. Susan Walley, a pediatrician at Children’s of Alabama, says it’s very important for parents to understand the dangers of vaping and to be able to recognize e-cigarettes. E-cigarettes are battery-powered smoking devices that have cartridges filled with a liquid that contains nicotine, chemicals and flavoring. Walley says oftentimes teachers and parents do not even recognize the cartridges when they see them. “Juul is one of the most common e-cigarettes,” Walley says. “The device is very small and can be hidden in backpacks and pockets. It looks like a USB charger, so oftentimes when we show teachers and parents the products they say, I saw those but didn’t recognize them!” Walley adds that the nicotine in those small, liquid cartridges can be the equivalent of two packs of cigarettes. Health experts are reporting serious lung damage in people who vape, including some deaths. Walley warns, “The facts are e-cigarettes are dangerous, particularly for youth. Thousands of people have been hospitalized with e-cigarette or vaping associated lung injury, also known as EVALI. These products have toxins in them that are very dangerous,” she adds. In addition to the lung damage, nicotine is highly addictive and can slow brain development in kids and teens and affects areas like memory, concentration, self-control, and mood. It also increases the risk of other types of addiction. Many e-cigarette products appeal directly to young children through the use of fruit flavors, and even branding that can appear cartoon-like. Walley warns parents to be on the lookout beginning at an early age for signs of e-cigarette use. It is recommended that parents talk with their children and teens about the dangers of vaping. And if you believe your child has already started, look for programs to help them quit. It is important for parents to be engaged and tune into what their children are doing to help them stay safe.
SEEING CLEARLY STARTS HERE Call and schedule an appointment today. Now accepting Blue Cross, Davis, Superior, Spectera, Met Life, All Kids, Cigna, Tri Care, Avesis and many other insurance plans.
205-987-2308 | www.dayeyecenter.com 2122 Old Montgomery Hwy. | Pelham, AL 35124 8 | birminghamparent | JULY / AUGUST 2021
COURTESY OF CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA
In a recent study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings, University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers found that there is significant geographic heterogeneity in the distribution of cardiovascular disease risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, high blood cholesterol levels, obesity, smoking, lack of physical activity and unhealthy diet, across the United States. These risk factors are disproportionately concentrated among those living in the Southern states and contribute to the higher prevalence of cardiovascular death in this region. Vibhu Parcha, M.D., a clinical research fellow in the UAB Division of Cardiovascular Disease and the first author of this study, explained that while there is empiric understanding about poor cardiovascular health status in the Southern states, there is no contemporary data quantifying this and looking at how the cardiovascular health has changed in the last decade. Parcha and his investigative team analyzed data from more than 1.3 million American adult participants of the Behavioral and Risk Factor Surveillance Survey, which is conducted annually by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. He added that Southern states perform worse in terms of diabetes, high blood pressure, poor cholesterol levels, obesity, physical inactivity, heart disease and stroke. “We found that there is a strong relationship between the prevalence of poor cardiovascular health and the cardiovascular mortality in a state,” Parcha says. “Interestingly, this relationship was weaker among Black individuals. This is in line with our prior investigations, which have also found that other social factors play an important role in driving the cardiovascular mortality burden in minority populations.”
VAPING & TEENS
ALABAMA CIVIL RIGHTS TRAIL PODCAST
Take a deeper dive into events that shaped a nation Most American history books only scratch the surface when it comes to telling stories about the Civil Rights Movement, and consequently many of those stories are not that well-known. To help bring a behind-the-scenes look at how this movement shaped a nation, the Alabama Tourism Department is launching the Alabama Civil Rights Trail podcast, a three-part series. “Our goal is for listeners to learn more about the history of the movement and how Alabama played a critical role in shaping voting rights and equality for everyone,” says Lee Sentell, tourism department director. The first episode provides an in-depth look into who the Freedom Riders were and their mission to ride across the Deep South. Episode two dives deeper into bombings and other terrorizing activities that took place in Birmingham during the late 1950s through the mid-1960s. The third episode covers attempted voting rights marches from Selma to Montgomery, which radically influenced the passage of the Voting Rights Act, and discusses how events that happened more than 50 years ago still play a role in the fight for equality today. “(The Freedom Rides) was actually a transformative moment in civil rights history,” says Dorothy Walker, director of the Freedom Rides Museum in Montgomery. “This was the psychological turning point in the entire struggle.” The first episode powerfully builds context for the succeeding episodes where listeners can examine the stories behind Birmingham’s role in shaping the Civil Rights Movement and the events that led to the Selma to Montgomery march for voting rights. Each episode reveals compelling and moving history lessons that can be applied to events happening in today’s world. At the end of each episode, listeners are encouraged to visit the Alabama Tourism Department’s website where they can learn more about Alabama’s civil rights legacy and plan their own civil rights journey with the help of the Alabama Civil Rights Trail mobile app – available now for free download in app stores. For more information, visit Alabama.Travel/CivilRights.
ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS SAFELY
Alabama Poison Information Center Shares Tips
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Insect stings. Snake bites. Poisonous plants. Don’t let any of these hazards interrupt your summer plans. The Alabama Poison Information Center (APIC) is just a phone call away to keep your family safe while enjoying the great outdoors. APIC is staffed by nationally certified, specially-trained toxicology experts, including nurses and pharmacists. They provide free and confidential poison information and treatment recommendations to the public and health care providers 24 hours a day. Save the APIC number, 1-800-222-1222, in your cell phone and post it in an easy-to-see location for babysitters or other caregivers in your home. Also, you can download APIC’s free app, Poison Perils of Alabama, to help identify potentially dangerous plants, snakes, insects and common household items. Poison Perils is available in the App Store and Google Play Store. Insect Repellents - Read the product label and follow all directions and precautions, says LaDonna Gaines, APIC manager. “Only apply insect repellents on the outside of your child’s clothing and on exposed skin. Products that contain permethrin should not be applied to skin,” she adds. Never spray insect repellent directly on your child's face. Spray a little on your hands first, then rub it on your child’s face avoiding the eyes and mouth. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that insect repellent should not contain more than 30 percent DEET when used on children. Insect repellent shouldn’t be used on children younger than 2 months old. Insect and Snake Bites - If an insect bites or stings you or your child, apply calamine lotion, baking soda paste, hydrocortisone cream or a topical anesthetic to reduce pain and itching. “If your child has an allergic reaction to an insect bite or sting, call 9-1-1,” Gaines says. Signs of an allergic reaction include facial swelling or general body swelling, a rash over part or the entire body, labored breathing or difficulty swallowing, sweats or chills, nausea or vomiting, or burning and itching of the hands, feet, neck, or site of the wound. If your child is bitten by a snake, remove rings and constrictive items; keep the child warm and calm and go to the closest emergency room or call 9-1-1. Do not apply a tourniquet or ice, and do not cut or suction the wound, Gaines says. Poisonous Plants and Mushrooms - Caution your children about poisonous plants and mushrooms. Know the names of the plants in your home and yard, and always try to keep poisonous plants away from children and pets. All wild mushrooms ingested by children should be considered potentially dangerous. birminghamparent.com | 9
2021 BIRMINGHAM PARENT FAMILY FAVORITES AWARDS online at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/2021-Winners
Announcing the 2021 Birmingham Parent Family Favorite Winners Compiled by Lori Chandler Pruitt and Carol Muse Evans
We all have our favorites, and so do you. But if you need a suggestion or a fresh idea, a friend or family member can give us great ideas by sharing THEIR favorites. That’s what our Family Favorites Awards program is all about. This is the longest running contest of its sort in the Birmingham area. We have many folks who copy us, but we have stayed true to the original idea – YOU nominate the winners, YOU choose the winners. Voters must cast votes in at least 20 categories to count, and we give away a great random prize to those who take the trouble to vote. This year we had two great prizes - a great getaway to OWA (www.visitowa.com) and a family vacation to Gatlinburg, TN (www.gatlinburg.com.) For your convenience, we grouped winners in categories, and we’ve got repeat winners and new ones. And we’ve eliminated a few categories and added some this year. Keep our list and access it all year at www.birminghamparent.com if you need it! If your favorite or your business or service didn’t win this year, be sure you nominate and vote for them in 2022! Voting begins January 2022 online. And when you see our Family Favorites logo in a place of business, know it was loved enough to be voted a “family favorite.” And special congrats to our OWA giveaway winner, Marie Toffel, who won a terrific trip for 4 to OWA, and our Gatlinburg winner, Holland Woods, who is taking the family to Gatlinburg soon! MANY THANKS to our sponsors! And remember you can see a special section of JUST Birmingham Parent’s Family Favorites 2021 online at www.birminghamparent.com, beginning July 1. And the winners are….
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TEN YEARS OF TURNING QUESTIONS INTO ANSWERS, TURNING WOMEN INTO MOTHERS, TURNING HOPES INTO DREAMS. Since first opening its doors ten years ago, the UAB Medicine Women & Infants Center has stood as the standard for excellence in women’s health. It’s part of our continuing commitment to improving the lives of our patients through nationally recognized services like reproductive endocrinology and infertility, and we’re proud to be celebrating a decade of making a difference by moving medicine forward.
WOMEN & INFANTS CENTER
uabmedicine.org/women birminghamparent.com | 11
2021 BIRMINGHAM PARENT FAMILY FAVORITES AWARDS online at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/2021-Winners
FAMILY FUN FAVORITE GEORGIA DESTINATION The Georgia Aquarium The largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere is right here a few hours away from Birmingham. Take a day trip or make it a family weekend. www.georgiaaquarium.org FAVORITE TENNESSEE DESTINATION Gatlinburg Gatlinburg is known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, and it is an ever-popular destination for Birmingham families wanting a mountain getaway. www.gatlinburg.com
PARTIES, ACTIVITIES & LEARNING FAVORITE BIRTHDAY PARTY PLACE Let’s Play This new winner has locations on Highway 280 and in Hoover. Let’s Play is an indoor soft play center for children aged 0-12 years where they have created a kid-friendly indoor environment that is stimulating and enjoyable for kids for parties as well as free play. www.letsplayparty.com/birmingham or www.letsplayparty.com/hoover
FAVORITE PARTY RENTALS
FAVORITE ALABAMA DESTINATION Gulf Shores/Orange Beach Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are a special place for those from Alabama and neighboring states. This area boasts some of the most beautiful sugarwhite beaches in the U.S. www.gulfshores.com
Party City You can find just about anything in this store, as well as ideas for parties and all types of celebrations. With three local locations for your convenience. www.partycity.com
FAVORITE FLORIDA DESTINATION Destin Home to stunning white sandy beaches, emerald green water and known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin Florida sits in the Florida Panhandle on the Gulf of Mexico. www.destinflorida.com
FAVORITE BIRTHDAY CAKE
FAVORITE FAMILY ATTRACTION IN BIRMINGHAM The Birmingham Zoo Who doesn’t love the Zoo? Improvements and additions, along with a few old favorites make the Zoo a repeat family favorite. www.birminghamzoo.com FAVORITE FAIR, FESTIVAL OR SPECIAL EVENT Doo Dah Day Animal lovers love this event for the whole family to both celebrate their pets and raise money for animals in Jefferson and Shelby counties. www.facebook.com/dodahdaybirmingham FAVORITE PUMPKIN PATCH Helena Hollow, Helena, AL This “entertainment farm” is home to great parties, weddings, events and of course, the popular pumpkin patch in the fall. It is a new Family Favorite. www.helenahollow.com FAVORITE CHRISTMAS OUTING Zoolight Safari, The Birmingham Zoo This is a long-time favorite event among Birmingham families for many years, but in 2020, the zoo changed the event to “Glow Wild: An Animal Lantern Celebration.” Current plans are to bring back Glow Wild this year, including a variety of lanterns throughout the zoo. www.birminghamzoo.com FAVORITE MUSEUM FOR CHILDREN TO VISIT IN BIRMINGHAM McWane Science Center This repeat family favorite is a science museum and research archive located downtown It includes an aquarium, and 280-seat IMAX Dome Theater. www.mcwane.org 12 | birminghamparent | JULY / AUGUST 2021
Publix Publix is a staple in the Birmingham area, and great service and products has a lot to do with it. You’ll find a full-service affordable bakery here – a family favorite for birthday cakes! www.publix.com
events and even the Library Theatre. No wonder it is a 2021 family favorite. www.hooverlibrary.org
FAVORITE TUTOR Sylvan Learning Centers Sylvan has long been a name synonymous with learning. With locations in Hoover and Trussville, a Sylvan Center isn’t too far away for your child. Check out their Facebook page for specials at www.facebook.com/SylvanBirmingham. www.sylvanlearning.com
FAVORITE PRIVATE SCHOOL The Altamont School A college prep school for grades 5-12, The Altamont is a small family with socio-economic, ethnic and religious diversity. Altamont offers many opportunities for children to develop multiple talents by participating in arts, world languages, community service, clubs, class projects, science competitions and sports. www.altamontschool.org
FAVORITE AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
The Birmingham Zoo The Zoo is more than fun; it is educational! There’s always something new at the Zoo, and it continues to be a favorite for school field trips. www.birminghamzoo.com
Odyssey Early Schools The Odyssey Early Schools is a repeat winner in multiple categories. With a commitment to education and excellence, it’s no wonder they are innovative in the after-school programs arena. https://odysseyearlyschool.com/
FAVORITE GYM/EXERCISE FACILITY
FAVORITE CHILDCARE/ PRESCHOOL
FAVORITE FIELD TRIP
Birmingham YMCAs From a full equipment room and weight for your workout, swimming pool, sports teams and exercise classes to fit just about everyone, the “Y” is a great place to exercise. www.ymcabham.org
Odyssey Early Schools This repeat winner is the platinum for preschool/childcare. They provide an effective, engaging and challenging learning environment for each child. https://odysseyearlyschool.com/
FAVORITE LIBRARY
FAVORITE MOTHER’S DAY OUT
Hoover Library The Hoover Library has so much to offer its patrons – books, magazines, videos, learning for all ages, special
Child Development Center at Asbury United Methodist Church The CDC provides care in a safe, warm, and nurturing environment that will enable your child to grow and develop through developmentally appropriate activities. www.canterburyumc.org/cdc
FAVORITE SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAM The Bell Center Since 1984, The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs has provided quality early intervention services in a center-based program in Birmingham. www.thebellcenter.org
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) State rivalries aside, UAB is a world-class university close to home, and great for students right out of high school or parents returning to college. This makes UAB a family favorite right here in our backyard. www.uab.edu/home
FAVORITE GYMNASTICS CLASS Premier Gymnastics Premier’s mission is to provide a fun, exciting and safe environment where children can experience the joys of gymnastics while they develop their physical condition, enhance social skills, learn discipline and strengthen their ability to handle successes and failures. www.premiergym.net
FAVORITE PARENT/CHILD CLASS Kindermusik with Michele & Friends Michele & Friends teach Kindermusik in multiple locations for your convenience. Kindermusik is the world's leading music and movement program for young children birth to 6 years old. www.facebook.com/kmwithmichele
FAVORITE MARTIAL ARTS CLASS Tiger Rock Martial Arts With four convenient locations, Tiger Rock can teach your kid life skills, discipline and a desire to succeed. Great for almost any age! https://tigerrockmartialarts.com/birmingham/
FAVORITE DANCE CLASS The Pointe Dance Studio Instructors at The Pointe work with their dancers to instill healthy habits, a sense of teamwork, and life skills that can be used both in and out of the dance studio. https://thepointedancearts.com
FAVORITE ART CLASS Party Art You can take a class, have a party and even shop at Party Art – all things art! They are a new Family Favorites winner! www.partyartstudio.net
One of the nation’s premier private schools for students in grades 5-12 Truth • Knowledge • Honor
www.altamontschool.org
NO W OF FER ING CO VA VID-1 CC 9 IN BH ES IN AM
FAVORITE MUSIC CLASS Mason Music This repeat winner has a lot to offer to families because Mason Music teaches award winning Music Lessons on guitar, piano, voice, drums and violin to students of all ages. https://masonmusicstudios.com
WHat we treat MINOR ILLNESSES AND INJURIES SUCH AS: -Fever -Allergies -Coughs & Colds -Sprains & Strains -Vomiting -And More
FAVORITE THEATRE CLASS Red Mountain Theatre Red Mountain Theatre is a staple in Birmingham, but their classes are popular, too, and for more than 40 years it has been educating and training area youth in all aspects of theatre and acting. www.redmountaintheatre.org/education/
ON-SITE SERVICES:
FAVORITE DAY CAMP
-X-ray -Laboratory -Pharmacy
Odyssey Early Schools Odyssey hits it out of the park in this category by providing fun, engaging and educational day camps for children even beyond preschool. https://odysseyearlyschool.com/
www.childrensurgent.com
OPEN 365 DAYS A YEAR birminghamparent.com | 13
2021 BIRMINGHAM PARENT FAMILY FAVORITES AWARDS online at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/2021-Winners
FAVORITE COLLEGE/CAREER TECH SCHOOL
2021 BIRMINGHAM PARENT FAMILY FAVORITES AWARDS online at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/2021-Winners
BUSINESSES & SERVICES
BUSINESSES & SERVICES may have grown up with, as well as new brands! Families love to come here to find all kinds of fun. https://www.homewoodtoy-hobby.com
FAVORITE BAKERY Edgar’s Bakery With many locations, it’s easy to find the perfect cake or all kinds of yummy desserts for any occasion – or just because. Edgar’s also serves delicious breakfast and lunch, and there is even a gift shop! www.edgarsbakery.com
FAVORITE BOOK STORE Books-A-Million With several well-stocked locations as well as a strong online presence for books, toys and tech, families rely on Books-A-Million for leisure activities as well as books for school and all types of learning. https://www.booksamillion.com
FAVORITE KIDS’ SHOES Sikes Shoes This repeat winner has everything you need to make sure your child gets the perfect fit and the perfect pair of shoes. https://sikesshoes.com
FAVORITE CAR REPAIR Stop and Start Automotive Center This automotive repair shop in Hoover wins the Family Favorite for the best place to bring a vehicle in for services.
FAVORITE CAR DEALER Hoover Toyota Hoover Toyota is a repeat winner for its excellent selection of new and pre-owned vehicles as well as great service. Several generations of customers trust Hoover Toyota. www.hoovertoyota.com
FAVORITE HOME/AUTO INSURANCE State Farm Families trust State Farm for all their insurance needs. With many offices and hundreds of agents, they’re available around the clock. https://www.statefarm.com
FAVORITE CREDIT UNION America’s First Federal Credit Union Readers trust America’s First, a repeat winner. Founded locally more than 85 years ago, it has 21 branch locations serving several Alabama counties. https://www.amfirst.org
FAVORITE BANK Regions Bank This repeat Family Favorites winner is based in Birmingham, and is a full-service bank. It also offers many online services, making it easy to keep track of your financial health. https://www.regions.com
FAVORITE MAID SERVICE Two Maids & A Mop Life is busy, and Birmingham families rely on Two Maids & A Mop to help keep the home front clean and organized. The company offers an array of services, from a one-time clean to deep cleaning. https://twomaidsbirmingham.com
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FAVORITE SPA/SALON Aveda Aveda offers retail salon and spa services that many readers love. Birmingham is home to the Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute, where students learn all the latest about beauty. https://avedaarts.edu
FAVORITE SHOPPING CENTER OR MALL The Summit
FAVORITE GROCERY STORE Publix Publix is a repeat favorite for many reasons. It’s the largest and fastest-growing employee-owned supermarket chain in the U.S., and they take great pride in offering the best service and products. https://www.publix.com
FAVORITE ICE CREAM The Whole Scoop
This lifestyle shopping center, a creative hub of style and taste in the South, is constantly opening new stores and restaurants of all kinds. Families love the variety! https://thesummitbirmingham.com
This family-owned ice cream shop in Brock’s Gap in Hoover features 32 flavors of hand-dipped ice cream, along with sundaes, malts, shakes and ice cream cakes. It’s a favorite for family fun! https://thewholescoopicecream.com
FAVORITE MATERNITY STORE Cradle + Bee
FAVORITE FROZEN YOGURT Yogurt Mountain
Touted as a chic boutique and one-stop shop for clothing, gifts and home for every stage of life, Cradle + Bee in Cahaba Heights is a Family Favorite for maternity clothing and gifts. https://shopcradleandbee.com
FAVORITE HAIRCUTS FOR KIDS Cookie Cutters This salon in Hoover aims to give families an amazing and caring haircut experience. There’s all kinds of fun things to do, as well as “fantasy chairs” on the cutting floor that help put children at ease. https://www.haircutsarefun.com
FAVORITE CONSIGNMENT STORE/SALE Kids Market and Mom This repeat Family Favorites winner is the largest consignment store in Alabama dedicated to children’s and maternity items with nearly 80,000 square feet of organized shopping space. www.kidsmarketandmom.com
FAVORITE TOY STORE Homewood Toy and Hobby This repeat Family Favorite, in business for more than 60 years, sells quality toys, games and hobby brands that you
Our readers have solidly chosen Yogurt Mountain as a Family Favorite every single year! It’s the “ultimate self-serve frozen dessert experience” with more than a dozen rotating flavors and more than 50 toppings. https://yogurtmountain.com
FAVORITE PLACE FOR DATE NIGHT Spare Time Trussville Date night has moved beyond dinner and a movie, with couples wanting more fun in their limited spare time. Spare Time, a repeat Family Favorite, is a family entertainment center with bowling, laser tag, arcade, events and an upscale restaurant/bar. www.sparetimeentertainment.com/ trussville/
FAVORITE FAMILY DINNER Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen is an Italianinspired space located in the popular Village at Brock’s Gap in Hoover. It offers an upscale experience with a neighborhood feel. https://www.trelunabarandkitchen.com
I’m having a baby. I’m also having questions. Whether you’re having your first baby or you’re an experienced mom, questions are natural. Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham is maintaining strict precautions to keep you and your baby safe. And now, you can attend many classes and appointments virtually, from home. No driving, no waiting rooms, just compassionate, personalized care delivered to you.
Online appointments and classes include: • Virtual appointments with our maternity navigator • Virtual hospital tours • Virtual lactation consultation and support groups • E-learning and virtual classes covering topics related to pregnancy through the baby’s first year • No-contact baby weight check Wednesdays • Virtual counseling appointments with our licensed clinical social worker, who specializes in treating anxiety and depression in pregnant and postpartum moms
Call 205-212-MOMS (6667) for more information or visit us at ascension.org/StVincentsALBaby Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham 810 St. Vincent’s Drive Birmingham, AL 35205
© Ascension 2021. All rights reserved.
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2021 BIRMINGHAM PARENT FAMILY FAVORITES AWARDS online at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/2021-Winners
BUSINESSES & SERVICES
HEALTH & WELLNESS
many clinics and services, it has earned the trust of many families. https://www.uabmedicine.org
FAVORITE KIDS’ MEAL Chick-fil-A This repeat Family Favorite has run away with the top spot for many years. Families love the delicious food with several healthy options, fast, friendly service and more. Kids’ meals come with an educational toy. www.chick-fil-a-com
FAVORITE TV STATION WBRC Fox 6 A repeat Family Favorite, WBRC Fox 6 is the station families trust for reliable news and weather. www.wbrc.com FAVORITE RADIO STATION WDJC A repeat Family Favorite, WDJC-FM was one of the first commercial FM radio stations in the U.S. to exclusively feature Christian programming. www.wdjconline.com
FAVORITE OB/GYN PRACTICE Henderson & Walton Women’s Center This Family Favorite has been providing care for more than 30 years. It specializes in women’s health care, and its physicians are board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. https://www.hwwc.net FAVORITE CHIROPRACTOR Dr. Troy Lofton Lofton is a chiropractic physician whose special interests include degenerative conditions of the spine, but also enjoys working with and educating pregnant moms to alleviate common symptoms during pregnancy; and neurological function for babies/toddlers. https://www.albackcare.com
FAVORITE WALK-IN/URGENT CARE American Family Care Families trust American Family Care for non-emergency patients who still need immediate attention. Founded in 1982, it has several locations and offers convenience and care. https://www.afcurgentcare.com FAVORITE CHILDREN’S WALK IN/ URGENT CARE Urgent Care for Children Children don’t pick the best times to be sick or injured. With multiple area locations, Urgent Care for Children is open late and on weekends to provide the care and service that will help your little one feel better in no time! www.childrensurgent.com
FAVORITE PHOTOGRAPHER Christy Pierce Photography Families love Pierce, a professional photographer who has earned many accolades for her work from The Knot, Birmingham Parent and more. She’s a wife and mom of three who treats each photography session as if it is her own. https://christypiercephotographyllc.com
FAVORITE ORTHODONTIST PT Ortho This repeat Family Favorite for the last nine years has 11 conveniently located offices in the Birmingham metro area, offering affordable, personalized, individualized treatment plans for children and adults. https://ptortho.com
FAVORITE BABY GIFTS/FURNITURE Buy Buy Baby This repeat winner offers everything you need for baby – from strollers to furniture to diapers. Parents love the convenience. The store also has a great website to make it easy to get all you need, too. www.buybuybaby.com
FAVORITE FAMILY DENTIST Dr. Norman C. Guillen Guillen has practiced dentistry in Homewood for more than 20 years. He was in the honors program at UAB and received his doctorate of dental medicine from UAB. His practice offers several services, and considers patients family. www.drgdmd.com
FAVORITE CHILDREN’S HEALTH FACILITY Children’s of Alabama Children’s of Alabama provides specialized medical care for ill and injured children, and ranks among the best pediatric medical centers in the nation. It also is one of the largest, offering inpatient and outpatient services of all kinds. https://childrensal.org
FAVORITE BOARDING FOR PETS Altadena Valley Animal Clinic This year’s Family Favorite has themed, ceramic tiled boarding suites with a TV and webcam! It’s just one of the many services Altadena Valley Animal Clinic offers families’ furry friends. www.altadenavalleyanimalclinic.com
FAVORITE PEDIATRIC DENTIST Dr. Lauten Johnson Johnson has led Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry in Hoover since its beginning in 2010. He completed his doctor of dental medicine at UAB and is board certified in pediatric dentistry. https://www.brocksgapdentalgroup.com
FAVORITE WOMEN’S HEALTH FACILITY Grandview Medical Center Grandview cares for women at every stage of life, with doctors and services tailored to each need, from childbirth to imaging. https://www.grandviewhealth.com
FAVORITE VETERINARIAN Dr. Melissa Miller, Altadena Valley Animal Clinic Miller graduated first in her veterinary class at Auburn University and practiced veterinary medicine in Montgomery and Auburn before moving home to Birmingham. www.altadenavalleyanimalclinic.com
FAVORITE COUNSELING United Counseling This year’s Family Favorite is a ministry of the United Methodist Church, providing faith-based professional counseling for more than 45 years. https://unitedcounseling.org
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FAVORITE ALL-AROUND HOSPITAL UAB Medicine UAB Medicine is one of the top academic medical centers in the U.S., providing health care services for more than 1.6 million patients annually. With
FAVORITE GYNECOLOGIST & OBSTETRICIAN Dr. Bill Hudson, Women’s Health Specialists at Grandview Hudson is a graduate of the University of Alabama School of Medicine with a residency at the University of Mississippi School of Medicine. He is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology. https://www.grandviewhealth.com
Ask a child what he dreams of doing in the future. His answer brings everything into focus for us. W E D O W H AT W E D O B E C AU S E C H I L D R E N H AV E D R E A M S .
Children’s of Alabama is dedicated to helping kids live the most fulfilling life possible. We put in a lot of time and training to make that happen.
Children’s of Alabama has been chosen as the 2021 Favorite Children’s Health Facility winner
Congratulations Dr. John Cortopassi Greenvale Pediatrics 2021 Favorite Pediatrician
1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 | ChildrensAL.org
YouFirst The difference between us and a bank is simple. We put our members first. Period. Before everything. Because auto loans and home mortgages aren't just about the best rates, they are about helping our members with the things that matter the most to them. At AmFirst, you are our priority.
amfirst.org
Grow with us
1031 Brock's Gap Parkway, Suite 265, Hoover (205) 518-5389 www.thepointedancearts.com
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2021 BIRMINGHAM PARENT FAMILY FAVORITES AWARDS online at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/2021-Winners
HEALTH & WELLNESS FAVORITE FERTILITY SPECIALIST Henderson & Walton Women’s Center Families trust Henderson & Walton, which has been providing care for more than 30 years. It specializes in women’s health care, and its physicians are board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. https://www.hwwc.net FAVORITE PLACE TO HAVE A BABY Grandview Medical Center Moms love Grandview Medical Center when it comes time to have their little ones. Their labor and delivery staff offers the comforts of home in an advanced hospital setting. https://www.grandviewhealth.com FAVORITE BIRTHING SUITES Ascension St. Vincent’s Hospital Birthing Center, Birmingham This repeat Family Favorite offers experienced, personalized maternal care before, during and after pregnancy to meet women’s needs at every stage of life. https://healthcare.ascension.org FAVORITE NICU Brookwood Baptist Medical Center This world-class NICU is a Family Favorite for its exceptional care and
medical professionals who offer many services. https://www.brookwoodbaptistmedicalcenter.com FAVORITE FAMILY DOCTOR Dr. Tammy Leong, Hoover Leong, this year’s Family Favorite, practices at Birmingham Internal Medicine Associates (BIMA) in Hoover. She is a graduate of the Louisiana State University School of Medicine and completed her residency/internship in the Department of Internal Medicine at UAB. https://completehealth.com FAVORITE OPTOMETRIST/ OPTHALMOLOGIST Dr. Tracey Mercer Mercer, who practices at Tracey L. Mercer, OD in Hoover, opened her own office in 2015 but has been practicing optometry since 1999. She is a graduate of UAB Optometry School. She and her staff are committed to putting patient care first. https://drtraceymercer.com FAVORITE PHARMACY Publix With convenient hours, knowledgeable pharmacists and other services for the whole family, it’s no surprise that Publix Pharmacy is a favorite. https://www.publix.com
Thank you for voting us a
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BUSINESSES & SERVICES FAVORITE ALLERGISTS Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center This year’s repeat Family Favorite has been committed to providing quality patient care since 1966. All of its allergists are certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology. With several locations in the Birmingham area, it’s also very convenient. https://www.alabamaallergy.com FAVORITE ENT Dr. Guy Handley, Brookwood ENT Associates PC Handley, a board-certified otolaryngologist, treats a wide variety of conditions in adults and children, such as hearing loss, allergy, sinus disease and pediatric ENT care. He is a repeat Family Favorite. https://brookwoodent.com FAVORITE PEDIATRICIAN Dr. John Cortopassi, Greenvale Pediatrics Cortopassi, a pediatrician at Greenvale Pediatrics in Hoover, part of Children’s of Alabama, is a favorite with families. He has been associated with Greenvale since 1980, and is board certified in pediatrics and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. https://www.childrensal.org
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It’s our pleasure to serve the Birmingham community
All trademarks shown are the property of CFA Properties, Inc.
FAVORITE ORTHODONTIST
At PT Orthodontics we know that a smile can change a life! We have been providing affordable, state-of-the-art orthodontic care since 1990. We have eleven convenient locations in Hoover, Homewood/Mountain Brook, Cahaba Heights, Greystone, Leeds, Pell City, Oxford, Hueytown, Gardendale, Jasper and Tuscaloosa. Because we want to make braces easy and affordable, we offer: Free Initial Consultations,
Choose Your Own Payment Plan, Same Day Braces, Before & After School Appointments, Friends Referral Program, Lifetime Smile Guarantee, Smile Savings Program, We File Your Insurance, No Hidden Fees – all records & first set of retainers are INCLUDED! Free retainer check up appointments for one year. For more details check us out at PTortho.com or give us a call at 205.979.9480. We offer a full range of
braces to meet your individual needs and desires, including metal braces and clear ceramic braces. We also offer Invisalign® clear aligners and are an Invisalign® Platinum Provider! We would love to help you achieve a beautiful PT Ortho Smile! Call us today at 205979-9480 to schedule a free consultation or visit www. PTortho.com to learn more.
www.PTortho.com 205-979-9480
FAVORITE CHILDREN’S WALK IN/ URGENT CARE
WINNER URGENT CARE FOR CHILDREN When your child is sick, you don’t want to spend hours in a waiting room. At Urgent Care for Children, we understand this and constantly strive to serve every patient with compassionate, quality care that is affordable and accessible. Urgent Care for Children (UC4C) was founded by a group of physicians who saw a need to provide a continuum of care for local pediatricians and offered an affordable alternative to the emergency room. As parents themselves, they under-
stood that children’s illnesses or injuries don’t follow normal business hours. UC4C operates ten clinics across the Southeast in addition to a telemedicine portal that brings our clinic to you. Our licensed, on-site pediatricians and pediatric nurse practitioners offer acute diagnostic and treatment care for children ages 0-21 with non-life-threatening needs during the day, after-hours and on weekends, 365 days a year. • Fever, allergies, sore throat/
coughs/colds, asthma, flu • Sprains/strains, earaches, bruises & lacerations • Insect bites/stings, minor burns, rashes • Vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhea Urgent Care for Children is also equipped with on-site laboratory and x-ray services, as well as an in-house pharmacy. We offer COVID, strep, and flu tests for adults and children.
Birmingham | Vestavia | Trussville 10 locations across the Southeast
205-848-2273 Check website for location hours.
www.childrensurgent.com
FAVORITE DANCE CLASS
WINNER THE POINTE DANCE ARTS
The Pointe Dance Arts in Hoover offers a wide variety of dance classes for all ages and skill levels. Having recently
relocated to our brand new state-of-the-art facility in Trace Crossings, we are proud to bring our students an experience that is unmatched. From our cutting edge technology used to enhance students’ training, to our nationally recognized preschool dance curriculum that has moms and kids raving, young people are sure to find their place at The Pointe. We believe in a family-friendly, positive studio culture where learning is fun. Our
staff works daily to maintain a safe, creative, exciting classroom environment while offering each child the highest quality dance education. Registration is open yearround to help parents and students be a part of this amazing program! Call (205)518-5389 or email thepointedancearts@gmail. com. You can also visit www. thepointedancearts.com to learn more about our studio.
www.thepointedancearts.com
WINNER AMERICA’S FIRST FEDERAL CREDIT UNION (AMFIRST) FAVORITE CREDIT UNION
2021 BIRMINGHAM PARENT FAMILY FAVORITES AWARDS online at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/2021-Winners
WINNER PT ORTHODONTICS
America’s First Federal Credit Union (AmFirst) was founded in 1936 by nineteen railway company employees who pooled their money in a cigar box so they could provide loans
to each other. Their mission: provide financial services to the under-represented who were not getting the service they needed from traditional banks. The credit union has grown a lot over the past 85 years. Our dedication to service and focus on improving the financial lives of our members has connected with the people of Alabama. Today, AmFirst has over 180,000 members and 21 branch locations. We are a full service financial
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institution offering a range of loans, mortgages, credit cards, savings accounts and spending accounts. What makes us different is that our primary obligation is to serve our members, not to maximize profits. This allows us to offer higher rates of return and lower interest rates than many banks are capable of offering. At AmFirst, we put you first. You can learn more and apply for membership at amfirst.org or at any AmFirst branch.
www.amfirst.org
FAVORITE PRIVATE SCHOOL
FAVORITE PRESCHOOL/CHILDCARE FAVORITE DAY CAMP FAVORITE AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
The mission of The Altamont School is to improve the fabric of society by graduating compassionate, well-educated individuals capable of independent thinking and innovative ideas. To this end, the school attracts, nurtures, and challenges students whose commitment to truth, knowledge, and honor will prepare them not only for the most rigorous college programs, but also for productive lives. Altamont is a small family of approximately 360 students in grades 5-12 with socio-economic, 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. Our campus features CabanissKaul Center for the Arts, Pharo Art Studio, Lacey-Day Photography Studio, newly renovated athletics spaces, two science wings, a study garden, a 14,000-volume library, and much more. Experience all that Altamont offers by attending an Open House or scheduling a campus tour.
4801 Altamont Road South Birmingham, AL 35222
Visit www.altamontschool.org 205-879-2006
WINNER ODYSSEY EARLY SCHOOLS Odyssey was created by educators who dreamed of opening an early learning center where children could be nurtured and taught by a highly trained and loving staff. That dream was realized when our Inverness school opened in 1995, and then again in 2001, with the opening of our second school in Trace Crossings. Odyssey’s goal is to create a life-long love of learning. We have developed our own age-appropriate curriculum, specifically designed to introduce
each age grouping to language, reading, math, science and more, so that your child will possess a strong foundation for Kindergarten and beyond. Additionally, we guarantee teachers with four-year education degrees in all preschool classrooms and offer exceptional child-to-teacher ratios. At our schools, you can watch your child’s entire day in live, streaming, HD video over the Internet, through an individual, secure connection linked directly
to your child’s classroom. We want our parents to know what happens during their child’s day, and Odyssey is the only Overthe-Mountain daycare to offer this service. Our team works tirelessly to earn its reputation as the best childcare option for Birmingham parents, and we invite you to visit today to www.odysseyearlyschool.com witness for yourself what so many other families have known since INVERNESS CAMPUS 205-991-0039 1995! Visit www.odysseyearlyschool. TRACE CROSSINGS CAMPUS 205-988-8829 com for more info.
FAVORITE BIRTHING SUITES
WINNER ASCENSION ST. VINCENT’S BIRMINGHAM Choose maternity care that’s right for you Whether you’re having your first baby or you’re an experienced mom, choosing the right care team and the location for the delivery of your child is important. “Our goal is to support each mom-to-be within a safe and compassionate environment,” says Madonna Nichols, Director of Women’s Services, Ascension St. Vincent’s. “We’re here to help
FAVORITE BAKERY
WINNER
answer questions, connect the dots and provide the support and personalized maternity care you need, including options that match your preferences.” From prenatal, pregnancy and birthing care to childbirth classes and breastfeeding support, we provide care close to home for those living in Central Alabama. And if mom and baby need more care, care teams that specialize in maternal-fetal medicine and high-risk neonatal care are ready to support you.
When you choose Ascension St. Vincent’s, you’ll have access to spacious suites for labor, delivery and postpartum care, reserved exclusively for you. Your maternity nurse navigator will help you determine your birthing preferences, answer your questions and offer trusted support throughout your pregnancy. And you can now choose from convenient online classes and appointments. Call 205-212-MOMS (6667) for more information or visit us at ascension.org/StVincentsALBaby.
205-212-MOMS (6667) www.ascension.org/StVincentsALBaby
EDGAR'S BAKERY
Inspired by quality ingredients & excellent service, Edgar’s Bakery has been a staple at Alabamians’ celebrations since 1998. Founder Terry Smith has said, “If you are asking if I had some great vision of this huge bakery…I would have to say no. All that I knew was that God was calling me to move into my own business and I obeyed. I didn’t have big plans but, obviously, God did.” Terry, with the encouragement
and support of his wife, Dottie, followed his heart and was met by a series of blessings confirming his decision to open his own bakery. Together they established what is now repeatedly noted as Alabama’s best bakery in publications throughout the South. From a single location, Edgar’s reputation for delicious sweet treats, superior service & quality ingredients has quickly spread throughout the state. In April
2013, Edgar’s Bakery opened in Tuscaloosa, their first location outside of the Birmingham area & 2018 marked the year that the bakery expanded north to Huntsville, Alabama. With a new location coming to Homewood and frequent customer requests for more, we view our growth as validation of our foundational commitment to high quality and genuine service.
Locations Birmingham/Tuscaloosa/ Huntsville/Pelham/Trussville/ Hoover For location phone number visit www.edgarsbakery.com
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2021 BIRMINGHAM PARENT FAMILY FAVORITES AWARDS online at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/2021-Winners
WINNER THE ALTAMONT SCHOOL
FAVORITE PEDIATRIC DENTIST FAVORITE ALL-AROUND HOSPITAL
Dr. Lauten Johnson started Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry with a mission of providing children with a dental experience that would leave them begging to come back again. We are honored to be chosen as Best Pediatric Dentist by you. Thank you for putting your trust in our practice and allowing us to provide complete dental care to you and your family. The team at Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry strive to build a
relationship with your family. Our state of the art equipment, convenient office hours and location allow families to maintain excellent dental care and still keep up with the demand of daily life and activities. Our practice is growing by leaps and bounds because of your referrals and by sharing your desire to have Orthodontics and adult dental care, so we are expanding once again. Be sure to stop in soon to take a look!
Dr. Lauten Johnson Dr. Lauren Denson
205-982-0112
www.brocksgapdentalgroup.com
WINNER UAB MEDICINE
U.S. News and World Report continually ranks UAB Hospital as the number one hospital in Alabama. Families love it for the convenient family medicine clinics and specialty care.
500 22nd Street South Birmingham, AL 35233
www.uabmedicine.org
WINNER CHICK-FIL-A FAVORITE KIDS' MEAL
2021 BIRMINGHAM PARENT FAMILY FAVORITES AWARDS online at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/2021-Winners
WINNER PEDIATRIC AND ADOLESCENT DENTISTRY
For over 70 years, Chickfil-A has built a foundational commitment to service – service to our customers, our franchised Restaurant Operators and Team Members, and to our communities. This begins in the restaurant – one customer at a time. We firmly believe in treating every person who comes through our doors with honor, dignity, and respect. We teach it to everyone who comes to work at Chick-fil-A, and it’s
something that they take with them throughout their careers. But to us, service goes beyond our restaurant doors through volunteerism and giving. We are committed to taking care of the people who take care of our communities. For example, by giving sandwiches to first responders in times of crisis, we honor the commitment they make to serve all of us. And our philanthropic giving reinforces that commitment to service by
Birmingham Parent among APA Media Awards for Magazine Contest Birmingham Parent was among the winners in select categories of the 2021 Alabama Press Association Media Awards. The awards were in late May. This year, 19 publications submitted 298 entries in the annual contest. The South Carolina Press Association membership judged the entries. Birmingham Parent brought home first
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helping children and families in need. The Chick-fil-A One mobile app gives customers the ability to customize their meal, order and pay in advance and skip the line at the register, speeding up the process of waiting at the counter or drive-thru. Our Birmingham area Chickfil-A locations invite you to use this new mobile app on your next visit!
place wins in “Best Individual Website,” for www. birminghamparent.com, with second place going to Homewood Life Magazine for www.homewoodlife.com and third place going to Mountain Brook Magazine for www.mountainbrookmagazine.com. Birmingham Parent also won first place for “Best House Ad or Self Promotion” for the 2021 Family Favorites Awards” house ad, while second place went to Peach Living (Clanton) for "Real Estate" and third
www.chick-fil-a.com
place went to Jackson Monthly for "12 Issues a Year.” Congratulations to the Birmingham Parent staff, including webmaster Tom Gonzales/Digital Doo-wop; Lori Chandler Pruitt, Associate Editor; Keith Dunn, current art director, and Hilary Moreno, former art director; and Carol Muse Evans, owner, publisher and editor. You can learn more at www.alabamapress.org.
Thank you for voting for Edgar’s Bakery for your favorite bakery! We look forward to celebrating many more milestones & firsts with you. edgarsbakery.com
@edgarsbakery
205.987.0790
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BAC K TO S C H O O L BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S 2018
happyhealthykidsfair
THE CHARTER SCHOOL CHOICE By Paige Townley
While charter schools may not be the right choice for every student, they are another option that parents and caregivers can consider when deciding what is best educationally for their student.
A popular topic when it comes to education today is charter schools. According to the latest data offered by the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools (NAPCS), there are approximately more than 3.3 million students attending 7,500 charter schools across the United States. In the 2018-2019 school year, charter schools accounted for 6.5 percent of all public school students, NAPCS reports. In Alabama, charter schools began under the Alabama School Choice and Student Opportunity Act, which went into effect March 19, 2015. The first charter school to officially open its doors in Alabama was Acceleration Day and Evening Charter School. The school opened in Mobile in 2017, and its mission is to help students, especially struggling and displaced students, graduate and prepare for college and career. While the school started specifically for ninth through 12th grades, it will be adding a middle school in the 2021-2022 school year. In 2018, the state saw its second charter school: University Charter School, which is located on the campus of the University 26 | birminghamparent | JULY / AUGUST 2021
of West Alabama in Sumter County. Originally, University Charter School only served students in grades pre-K through eighth, but its goal is to add a grade each year to 12th grade. Besides these initial two, Alabama currently has three other charter schools in operation: Lead Academy in Montgomery, Legacy Prep in West Birmingham, and I3 Academy in Birmingham. “There will be four more coming online this August,” says Logan Searcy, Alabama Public Charter School Commission (APCSC) education administrator. “That will bring us to a total of nine throughout the state. Another three have been approved to start in 2022, so then we’ll have 12.” With charter schools becoming more commonplace, and controversy often surrounding their establishment, it’s critical to understand what they really are. A charter school is a public school that offers primary or secondary education and operates as a school of choice. It receives government funding just like schools in the public school system, though it does have different requirements in order to receive those funds. Just like selecting between the local public school option or a private school, parents can make the choice on whether to send their children to a charter school. “A common misconception is that a charter school isn’t a public school, but it 100% is,” explains Searcy. “They aren’t getting state money to start private schools. We track the money, and charter schools are accountable for the dollars they spend. Charter schools simply provide another choice.
There is no requirement to attend a charter school if one opens in your city. It’s simply another educational option.” The Foundation of a Charter School The establishment of a charter school is a rather detailed process. It must have its own governing board, and 20 percent of that board must include parents from the school. These founders must create a mission statement and plan outlining the school’s specific approach to teaching and how the school will offer an innovative pathway for students. Currently in Alabama, there are five local school system authorizers that must approve the request for a charter school to open – Birmingham, Montgomery, Greene County, Mason County, and Athens, if the school is located in one of those zones, as well as the APCSC. One particular aspect of starting a charter school that can make it difficult is that the schools do not receive government funding until students are physically attending the school. “Funding is a huge obstacle charter schools have to overcome,” Searcy says. “That is certainly one reason why we don’t have any more than we do in the state.” Charter School vs. Traditional Public School While charter schools do eventually receive government dollars just like public schools, there are many differences in how charter schools function. One difference is that charter schools have autonomy. They have more flexibility when it comes to creating the classroom environment and curriculum. Charter schools can also hire an education management organization, a third-party group, to run the school. “The flexibility charter schools get mainly come in things like school design and operations,” Searcy adds. “What charter schools are getting for that flexibility, however, is more accountability. Depending on the local authorizer, charter schools are accountable to its authorizer. Charter schools also still have the same statewide assessment requirements just like traditional state schools.” A specific area charter schools are held to a high requirement of accountability is its success rate. Charter schools are required every year to provide a certain percentage of success. If the charter school does not maintain the success rate it is supposed to, unlike a traditional public school, it can be closed. Like traditional public schools, students can attend charter schools free of charge. There is no fee to attend. Charter schools are required by law to first open up spots to its local attendance zone – the students located in the zone of the local school system – before opening up seats to other students. If that happens and there are still spots to fill, it can be opened up to anyone. Charter School vs. Magnet School Another common misconception about charter schools is that they are magnet schools, but they are actually completely different. Charter schools have no qualification to attend – they are open to any student. Magnet schools typically have a specific academic focus and have qualifications that must be met in order to attend. Charter School Benefits to Students Depending on what the parent or caregiver is looking for when it comes to their student’s education, charter schools provide many benefits. Because charter schools are required to have a mission geared toward something unique or innovative, one benefit is that the school may have a specific focus on something the student is particularly interested in, whether that be a focus on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) or pursuing a particular trade or career. Or it could be that the charter school provides more flexibility when it comes to required hours. For example, Acceleration Day and Evening School offers daytime or nighttime classes. So, if a student has a job that requires their time during the day, they can attend school at night. “Not every student fits the typical 8-to-3 mold of a
Alabama Charter Schools Existing: • Acceleration Day and Evening School • Lead Academy • Legacy Prep • University Charter School • I3 Academy Approved to Open in 2021: • Breakthrough Charter School • Magic City Acceptance Academy • Davis Elementary (Conversion Charter School) • Life Academy Approved to Open in 2022: • Ivy Classical Academy • Empower Community School • Bellingrath Middle School (Conversion Charter School)
traditional public school,” Searcy adds. “For those particular students that could benefit from the flexibility, it’s a big deal.” Another difference with a charter school that could benefit students is that charter schools do not offer tenure for teachers. To attract and keep teachers, charter schools can also offer incentives, such as bonuses. This can lead to better teacher retention and attracting higher quality teachers. Teachers at charter schools in Alabama aren’t required to have the same teaching certifications as public school teachers. “This could mean, for example, that a college professor that doesn’t have the teacher certification could be hired at a charter school,” Searcy says. “Of course, they still go through the typical things like background checks, but it means charter schools have access to a wider pool of candidates to hire.” The Future of Charter Schools in Alabama While Alabama is scheduled to have a total of nine charter schools by the 2021-2022 school year, three other charter schools have already been approved to come on board as of 2022. While charter schools may not be the right choice for every student, they are another option that parents and caregivers can consider when deciding what is best educationally for their student. “We have many charter schools in Alabama that offer something unique and innovative,” Searcy adds. “It really comes down to parental choice. It’s another option you have when consider the best educational course for your student.” Paige Townley is a Birmingham-based freelance writer.
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2021 BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S
SATURDAY, AUGUST 7 • 11 A.M. - 4 P.M. PRESENTED BY
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AT
Grab your whole family and come join the fun!! We’re going outside due to the pandemic this year! See vendors OUTDOORS at the Outlet Shops of Grand River. Visit with all the amazing vendors and find great info on health, exercise, education, sports, extra-curricular activities & more! Be one of the first 200 at the Birmingham Parent booth to get a swag bag from The Outlet Shops of Grand River and event vendors full of great coupons, prizes and some hidden big prizes! Enjoy fun carnival games from Deborah’s Party Rentals with back–to–school prizes with Birmingham Parent staff. Joe Lockett of the Joe Locket Show on WYDE will be on hand at 11 a.m. to give away school supplies, while they last. Watch for him under the Birmingham Parent tent. Have you ever thought your child would make a great Birmingham Parent cover kid? Here’s your chance! Christy Pierce Photography will be at the Birmingham Parent booth from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. to make cover shots and take your entry! Make a $5 or more contribution to Children’s of Alabama during their 110th anniversary, and Christy will share those digital cover shots with you! Vendor Booth and Sponsorships are still available! Call us today at 205-624-2405, e-mail at info@birminghamparent.com, or register online at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/2021-happy-healthy-kids-fair/.
SPONSORS
birminghamparent.com | 29
BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S
happyhealthykidsfair2016 Visit these Great Vendors and More at the Happy Healthy Kids Fair August 7 Coming August 7 – the return of Birmingham Parent’s Happy Healthy Kids Fair 2021! This year, due to the pandemic and continued concerns, we are holding the event outdoors at the Outlet Shops of Grand River from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., so come out, visit our sponsors and vendors, and shop for back to school! Joe Lockett of the Joe Lockett Show on WYDE will be on hand at 11 a.m., giving away school supplies, while they last. Visit Christy Pierce Photography, where she will be making headshots from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for our Cover Kids Search. Make a contribution of $5 or more to Children’s of Alabama to celebrate their 110th anniversary, and Christy will share the digital headshots with you! We’ll have fun games with great prizes for kids to play, and don’t miss being one of the first 200 to get a Birmingham Parent swag bag, provided by The Outlet Shops of Grand River and vendors, full of great coupons, special giveaways and even hidden prizes! The event is presented by H&M at the Outlet Shops of Grand River and sponsored by Children’s of Alabama, WVTM-13 -NBC, 106.9 FM the Eagle and Mix 97.3. The following vendors will be there, but there are more to come! Check our website at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/2021-happy-healthy-kids-fair/ for a more up to date list as the event day approaches.
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BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S
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B AC K TO S CH O O L BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S 2018
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GIVE SPORTS A CHANCE: 10 LESSONS KIDS CAN LEARN By Kerrie McLoughlin
I pretty much failed at every athletic endeavor I tried growing up – from that cringe-worthy summer of softball to those two hilarious years of ballet and tap. You’d think I’d try to steer my own kids away from sports, but instead I do what I can to encourage them to give any sport a shot. Here are some of the cool things I told them they could learn:
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• Trying something new might lead to unexpected things. First of all, you might have more fun than you thought you would, and you might make some amazing friends. It’s a break from screens and the routine of home life. At the very least, you are getting some exercise and learning a new skill! • Showing up is half the battle. You might not feel like going to the practices and games, especially if a losing streak has visited your team, you’re having an issue with a teammate or are tired of playing outside in the cold or heat. Think about how you have to show up at school or you fail. This extends into more areas of your life later on, like friendship, family, work and marriage. Be the kind of person who shows up because it’s going to be a real stand-out character trait.
• Learning how to handle disappointment will carry you through life. When you’re older, you may get fired from a job, fail a college exam, tank a few relationships. It’s okay to experience losing when you’re young – it prepares you for life later. But try to be a good loser because it looks ridiculous when people act like big babies over something that is meant to be played in fun. • Being a good winner shows character. Learning how to be a graceful winner is just as important as learning how to be a graceful loser. Gloating and bragging are not cute in kids and definitely are not cute in adults. Shake hands and tell kids from the other team they did a great job. • It’s not always going to be fair. No matter what the call is or how the other team plays, you should always play fair. You know what is right, so do it. A good athlete – and person – is honest and trustworthy. Also, a ref may make a call that was seen from a different angle or viewpoint and you know for a fact it was one way, but you still have to respect that call.
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• Teamwork is everything. You will always need this skill, so listen to others, respect differences, support others. Succeed or fail, but do it together. Every member of the team is important so don’t downplay your place (or the place of others) on the team. • Confidence and passion make up for a lack in ability many times. You will go into a game more confident if you made all the team practices and also practiced extra at home. Not the best kicker on the soccer team? Feel that inner confidence, take a deep breath and just keep trying. Don’t be scared to fail, do your best, practice and try your hardest. • Mistakes are how we learn, and something we all make. You may want to groan when someone on your team doesn’t make an easy shot, but instead try to understand they are still learning or maybe their mind wandered – they are just kids like you. Don’t have a fit if the ref makes a bad call or if the coach takes someone out then loses the game. You are also going to mess up sometimes and you want the same patience from your teammates, refs, other parents and coaches.
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• Leadership opportunities always present themselves. I love the teams who rotate the team captain responsibility so all players can give it a try and see if they have a skill they didn’t realize they had. Even if you are not captain, you can still exhibit leadership skills by helping out younger kids or kids who need help with their skills. Help where you can, even if that just means handing out snacks and drinks after the games.
Live piano accompaniment for classes through first grade.
• Downtime is okay. Ah, patience. Sometimes there is waiting around in sports. Some sports move more slowly than others, and some teams have more players than others. Sometimes you’ll have to play the entire game and sometimes you’ll be sitting out for half of it. Use downtime to make friends on the bench, and cheer on your team.
Call or register online
Kerrie McLoughlin (TheKerrieShow.com) is the mom of 5 who is surprised to find herself teaching physical education at the homeschool co-op year after year and loving it.
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BAC K TO S C H O O L BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S 2018
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FINDING THE RIGHT PRESCHOOL
FOR YOUR FAMILY By Jan Pierce, M.Ed.
When it’s time to search for the perfect preschool for your little one, you want to be sure you’re making the right decision. If you’re lucky enough to have friends who’ve done their research and are happy with their choice, you’re fortunate. You’ll have firsthand recommendations. Be aware of the difference between daycare and a functioning preschool. Daycare facilities provide custodial care, but don’t usually offer an educational curriculum. Daycares often take children of all ages and offer extended hours. A preschool usually has limited hours and may or may not offer before and after school care. In a daycare, children of all ages may be grouped together while a preschool offers segregated age groups. The NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) has a database of accredited preschools you can access at families.naeyc.org/find-quality-child-care. This site lists currently accredited daycares and schools all across the nation and is updated weekly. Spend a little time on their website for top-notch thinking about early childhood education.
WHERE TO BEGIN?
Start your search early. Many excellent preschools have long waiting lists. In general, you’ll be looking for a school that provides: • The convenience of proximity to your home and/or your workplace. • A solid reputation and up-to-date accreditation and licensing. The state has approved the school.
• Clear rules and regulations, health/illness
policies, pickup and drop-off times. • Clean, well-kept facilities with adequate indoor and outdoor play areas. • Qualified, caring staff. • Stimulating curriculum and age-appropriate toys. • A philosophy and climate pleasing to you and right for your child’s temperament.
QUESTIONS TO ASK Ask these questions before narrowing your search and visiting schools: • Is there currently room for my child? Is there a waiting list? • What are the fees? How and when are we billed? • How do you communicate with parents? (phone calls, e-mails, newsletters, website, etc.) • What is your staff to student ratio? (NAEYC recommends one adult to every four to nine children as optimal at ages 2-3 and one to eight to ten for ages 4-5.) • Do your staff members have credentials and training? Are they background checked? Up to date on CPR? Receiving ongoing training? • What is your educational philosophy? (academic-oriented, exploration, faith-based, etc.) • What health/hygiene standards are enforced? (immunizations, sick child rules, hand-washing, etc.) • How do you handle discipline? • Are meals and snacks provided? Are naps taken? • What safety precautions are in place? (strangers on-campus, release policies, sign-in/out)
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• Can you give me a list of references? (be sure to follow up and call them.) • Can you provide a sample of your weekly curriculum and activities? • How often do you change the activities? As you gather information, you’ll be able to narrow your list down to two or three good choices. Then visit the schools. You can do this with your child or on your own. Visiting gets you a “feel” for the school. Do you feel welcome? Are the children busy and engaged in work or play? Is the facility pleasing to the eye and orderly? Do you get the sense that you’d feel comfortable leaving your child in this school’s care. Are the children happy? Jot down your first impressions and any new information you find during the visit. If for any reason, you don’t feel comfortable with the school environment, trust your instincts and look for another school. It might be preferable to find a safe daycare situation and use that until you can locate a preschool of the highest standards. You want the perfect preschool and your child deserves it. All the time and effort you put into your search will pay huge dividends in a happy, healthy, and well-cared for child. Jan Pierce, M.Ed. is a retired teacher. She is the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun. Find Jan at www.janpierce.net. More information at www.readingrockets. org, www.niche.com/blog, www.naeyc.org and www.ourkids.net/school/preschool.
PRESCHOOL VISIT CHECKLIST 1
Do the stated learning goals match mine?
2
Do the goals address all areas of my child’s development including social play, control of emotions, language skills, learning letters and numbers, engaging in science, art and physical development?
3
Am I comfortable with the school’s discipline policies?
4
Is the school licensed by the state? Is it accredited by a national association like the NAEYC?
5
Does the lead teacher have a bachelor’s degree or certification in Early Childhood Education?
6
Are support workers trained? children?
8
Are there separate learning centers for various activities such as art, reading, dramatic play, writing, etc.?
9
Does the school use a well-known quality curriculum preparing children for kindergarten later on?
10
Does the class follow a daily routine that offers a variety of activities? Do the children play both outdoors and inside?
11
Are parents free to drop in without making an appointment?
12
Does the school have a means of regularly communicating with parents? Do they report the activities of the past week or month?
13
Do you feel welcome?
14
Are the teachers warm and caring with the children?
15
Do they have conversations with the children as they work or play?
16
Are the children happy and engaged?
17
Do children have the opportunity to choose their activities part of the time?
18
Are the children talking and interacting with eac other?
19
Are books and read-alouds a regular part of the day?
20
Is children’s art work and other work samples displayed?
21
Are the furniture, equipment and toys age appropriate and in good working condition?
Expect More From Education
18 months – 8th grade Call to schedule a tour:
(205) 879-3278 | www.cmskids.org 2800 Montessori Way, Homewood, AL 35209
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Gas up, empty your trunk and slather on your sunscreen. This is one funderful road trip that can’t be missed! Sale begins at Noccalula Falls Park in Gadsden, AL and extends up scenic Lookout Mountain Parkway to Chattanooga and beyond, all the way to Michigan!
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Book your class today! Scheduler@disl.edu 251-861-2141 ext. 7515 101 Bienville Blvd. Dauphin Island, Alabama 36528 38 | birminghamparent | JULY / AUGUST 2021
Are Your Children Protected?
VS
birminghamparent.com | 39
“We talk a lot about hope here,” Dearing says. “There’s not a day that goes by that we don’t focus on the hope and that survivors can find hope, safety and healing". PHOTOS COURTESY OF ONE PLACE
THE POWER OF ONE One Place Metro Alabama Family Justice Center is working to serve victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault By Paige Townley
The statistics are alarming. Nearly 20 people per minute in the United States are physically abused by an intimate partner, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV). Also reported by the NCADV is that one in four women – and one in seven men – will be a victim of domestic violence in their lifetime. When these awful scenarios occur, the difficulties often continue for the victim. In trying to seek help and report the violence, it’s typically an overwhelming and repetitive task, causing them to relive the incident over and over as they relay the information to the required individuals. But fortunately, in Birmingham that’s actually no longer the case, thanks to One Place Metro Alabama Family Justice Center. One Place is a nonprofit organization that’s a collaboration between the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office, the Birmingham Police Department, YWCA Central Alabama, and the Crisis Center, Inc. Since its beginning in 2017, its mission has been to provide coordinated services to victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault through a multi-disciplinary team of professionals working together under one roof. This process helps remove the 40 | birminghamparent | JULY / AUGUST 2021
barriers victims and survivors often face in reporting violence. “We want victims and survivors to feel safe and welcome so they can do a very hard thing, which is talking about potentially the worst thing that has ever happened to them,” explains Allison Dearing, One Place executive director. “Confidentiality and privacy is so very important in these situations, and it’s hard to get that in a courthouse setting or a police station. Sometimes it can be re-traumatizing to a victim to have to go into the police station.” By bringing together multiple professional partners in one place, the nonprofit makes it much easier to access the multiple services needed – and often required – in the process. “When a terrible thing happens to you it makes it even harder when you have to go all over the community to navigate the different systems on your own,” Dearing adds. At One Place, victims can come in to a calm, private environment and get practically any of the potential services they need, whether it be a forensic exam performed by a forensic nurse, the filing of a police report, or counseling. “Someone may come in and have an exam performed and decide that’s all they want, and we support that decision,” Dearing says. “They may later say they want to file a report and come back and meet with law enforcement at that time, or they may go ahead and set up some counseling sessions. Or maybe they choose to do it all at one time. We just want to make sure we’re here to support that individual on their journey to hope and healing.” In addition to providing the needed services victims and survivors need, One Place also takes on the responsibility to ensure that they fully understand their rights and how the entire process of filing charges works. There are advocates who work with each victim to explain the process, and the advocate is a completely confidential confidante who is there to help. “We
believe knowledgeis power,” adds Dearing. “When someone comes in for the first time, we want them to know how it works, and the advocate walks them through what will happen if, for example, they choose to speak to the police. They need to know what to expect, and it’s critical for victims and survivors to know who is confidential on site and who isn’t.” When the victim or survivor is ready to speak to the needed partners, the center coordinates each service so that they do not have to repeat their stories multiple times to multiple people. “We really want to minimize the amount of times a person has to repeat the story,” Dearing says. “Repeating it over and over can be re-traumatizing, so we when we know the survivor is ready to take the next step, the advocate, a nurse, and a police detective can all be in the room together so the victim can tell the story one time.” While One Place serves anyone who has been impacted by domestic or sexual violence, 95 percent of the time that victim is a female, so the nonprofit also makes sure there is no obstacle, such as child care, that would prevent her from seeking help. One Place also has a playroom on site. Through their partnership with YWCA, One Place can also help survivors receive confidential shelter if they are in danger.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ONE PLACE
“We talk a lot about hope here,” Dearing says. “There’s not a day that goes by that we don’t focus on the hope and that survivors can find hope, safety and healing. But it’s important to remember that domestic and sexual violence are more widespread than people realize. It’s often a secret that happens behind closed doors, but we’ve got to shine a light on it if we’re ever going to make our community safer.” Paige Townley is a Birmingham-based freelance writer.
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FAMILY TRAVEL
C H EC K O U T A H I D D E N G E M BRYSON CITY, NORTH CAROLINA Outdoors enthusiasts and train lovers will want to visit By Carol Muse Evans PHOTOS COURTESY SWAIN COUNTY TDA / CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.
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This may be a place you’ve never heard of – Bryson City, North Carolina. This small town is conveniently situated near Cherokee, North Carolina, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, as well as Asheville, North Carolina. But it is also a destination unto itself that families will love, especially those who love trains and the outdoors. You can enjoy its quiet and small-town flavor while being near to all sorts of great attractions. Located in Swain County, Bryson City is home of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (www.GreatSmokies.com). There are several fun excursions you can take (so be sure to plan ahead, make reservations and pick out the trip that looks fun for your family), but we took a 4-hour trip to Nantahala Outdoor Center (https://noc.com/), where we deboarded the train and visited for about an hour, then headed back to Bryson City. This Gorge Diesel features several different car choices, including inside travel and an all-adult car. We took the Open-Air Gondola on a spring May day and it was fantastic, getting to experience the wind, smells and sounds of train travel. The train company provided boxed lunches, or you could have lunch at the Nantahala Outdoor Center. Prices for a train ride vary based on the train engine, time of year, and even the car you are riding in. Tickets can be as low as $56+ for an adult in a diesel train and $65+ for adult in a steam engine. Children’s tickets run approximately $32 and $42 respectively; infants 0-23 months are free in open air gondola and coach. Adults only in Adult First Class and Premium Open-Air Gondola. There is an additional charge for a boxed lunch. (Learn more at www.gsmr.com.) As you exit the train, hop into the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum (www.gsmr.com/smoky-mountain-trainsmuseum/and gift shop), where you will see amazing, huge and detailed toy train exhibits, along with a multitude
of fun souvenirs in the gift shop. This is lots of fun for all ages. Bryson City has so much small-town charm. If you go, set aside some time to enjoy this non-touristy town of 1,400 with boutique shopping, breweries and restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops and some cute gift shops, especially around the depot. Everything is in walking distance from many of the places to stay. An hour west of Asheville, two hours from Chattanooga and three hours from Atlanta or Charlotte, Bryson City is secluded, but close to everything. Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are a little more than an hour’s drive, too, should you want to explore but use the quiet, quaint town of Bryson City as your “home base.” In addition to riding the train, you must see Deep Creek in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (www.GreatSmokies.com/deepcreek/) right next door, featuring hiking trails from moderate to easy, three gorgeous waterfalls, fishing, tubing, biking, horseback riding, ziplining, camping and picnicking (www.greatsmokies.com). Take the Road to Nowhere, a scenic mountain highway going six miles into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and ends at the mouth of a tunnel. You might see elk! As you drive in from Birmingham/ Chattanooga, you’ll go past the Nantahala Outdoor Center (along with what seems like dozens of tubing and whitewater rafting companies). You could spend a few hours or a day here, depending on what you desire to do. Sign up for all sorts of activities here – kayaking, white water rafting, tubing, ziplining and more – or sit at River’s End Restaurant and enjoy the beautiful views while dining on fresh trout, and where every seat has a view of the river. For more information and to see all the things to see, do and explore, visit www.greatsmokies.com. Carol Muse Evans is publisher and editor of Birmingham Parent.
WHERE TO STAY:
Bryson Village Luxury Vacation Rentals (Walk everywhere in town!) 828-488-9898 www.brysonvillage.com We stayed in one of the Bryson Village Creekside cottages, “Magical Memories,” and they were amazingly
comfortable, luxurious and well apportioned. Each one has a special name and each offer one or two bedrooms. Ours was a one-bedroom with sofa sleeper, large bathroom, full kitchen stocked with everything, washer and dryer, internet, television and a beautiful deck with a view and a hot tub. It was very childfriendly, but could be great for a couple’s or friends’ getaway! These cabins are in a gated area and within walking distance of everything in Bryson City. Bryson Village also offers group lodging and rustic log cabins. Prices for cottages and cabins start at $109 per night and can go up to $159 per night, depending on the season. The Bryson House starts at $169 and runs to $239.
WHERE TO EAT:
River’s End Restaurant at Nantahala Outdoor Center https://noc.com/ 828-488-7172 Closed Monday evenings and all-day Tuesday. Check out the eclectic menu online. In addition to fresh trout, there are a number of vegetarian offerings. Anthony’s https://www.anthonysderailedbrysoncity.com/ Downtown Bryson City Closed on Tuesdays Amazing Italian food, pizzas and more. This is a great, casual atmosphere with affordable choices. See their menu online.
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OTHER ATTRACTIONS:
Appalachian Rivers Aquarium/Fly Fishing Museum www.flyfishingmuseum.org/aquarium 828-488-7857 Open Thursday-Saturday The aquarium is part of the Fly-Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians. It is a one-of-a-kind discovery place to learn about the diversity of nature in the streams, rivers and other waters of North Carolina. TSALI Recreation Area for mountain bikers, horseback riders Nantahala National Forest www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc 828-479-6431 There is a multitude of whitewater rafting and tubing companies in the area. Check online for the one that is right for you.
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Is Your Home Lead Safe? Most children get lead poisoning from paint in homes built before 1978. Keep paint in good repair and use a certified lead contractor to safely perform home renovations if your home was built before 1978.
A blood lead test is the only way to know if your child has lead poisoning. Talk with your child’s doctor about testing, especially at the 1- and 2-year check-up, when children are at greatest risk.
Lead poisoning can cause permanent learning and behavior problems. Follow these steps to stop lead poisoning: • Practice and teach good handwashing, especially before preparing food and eating. • Feed your family a low-fat diet high in calcium and iron. • Damp dust and mop, especially around windows and play areas, to remove lead dust. • Keep children away from areas with peeling or chipping paint.
Visit our website to learn about other sources of lead and the importance of prevention. ADPH Environmental Alabama Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program Services Lead Branch 1-800-819-7644 1-833-667-1495 alabamapublichealth.gov/lead alabamapublichealth.gov/aclppp 44 | birminghamparent | JULY / AUGUST 2021
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ASK T H E S P E C I A LI ST
sponsored by
Swimming Safety for Children
FAVORITE NICU
By Dr. Marie Pittman
Splish! Splash! Children seem to be naturally drawn to water. They can splash in it, float on top of it and dive through it. Water can be a welcome relief from the summer heat and a source of unlimited enjoyment. But it also can be dangerous. Approximately 1,000 children drown each year, most often in the home swimming pool. Parents can keep their children safe around water by following these do’s and don’ts to avoid health risks while still having fun.
• DO teach children how to swim. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends swim lessons for children starting at age four when they are developmentally ready for formal swim lessons. • DO supervise children at all times when they are in the water. Just because children know how to swim does not mean they are safe in the water. • DO remove toys from the water so children are not tempted to retrieve a toy. • DO get out of the water if weather turns bad, especially if there is lightening. • DO have a cordless or cell phone nearby in case of an emergency. • DO use waterproof diapers for babies. It is important to change diapers often because babies can spread the parasite cryptosporidium through fecal matter. • DO allow a child with a water-safe cast to swim if the doctor has approved. Plaster casts should not get wet. • DO keep children out of the water if they have swimmer’s ear. • DO surround your pool at home with a fence that is at least four feet tall. The fence should have a self-closing and self-latching gate (latches should be out of the reach of children). • DO empty blow-up pools after each use. • DO stay in designated areas at the beach or lake. • DO look out for underwater grass or weeds that could entrap a leg or arm. • DO wear aqua socks or water shoes at the lake or beach to protect feet from jagged rocks, trash, or broken glass. • DO have children wear life jackets when boating.
46 | birminghamparent | JULY / AUGUST 2021
• DO watch out for currents and tides at lakes or beaches. Check with local authorities to determine whether they have posted warnings for dangerous tides. Some beaches fly colored flags to provide visual warnings. • DO tell children to avoid jellyfish or Portuguese man-of-wars and ask for adult help if they ar • DO make sure water park rides are appropriate for the child’s age, size, and developmental level. • DO teach children to go down water slides feet first and face up. The “feet first” rule also applies to jumping into any body of water until you are sure of the depth. • DON’T let children dive into a body of water without first checking the water depth. • DON’T allow electrical appliances or glass around the water. • DON’T allow children to swim with an open sore, cut or scrape. • DON’T allow children with ear tubes to dive. Swimming may be allowed pending physician approval. • DON’T allow children to run around a pool, roughhouse, or push others into the water. • DON’T allow children to play near or sit on a pool drain. Dr. Marie Pittman is a family medicine physician with Brookwood Baptist Health Primary & Specialty Care Network – Oak Mountain in Pelham.
Caring for generations to help women live their best life. Some call having your baby at Brookwood Women’s Medical Center a family tradition. We make birth days special with luxury suites and postpartum care that includes advanced neonatal services. And as the seasons of life move forward, we provide comprehensive care for women’s health. So go ahead. Live your best life.
Learn more at BrookwoodWomens.com birminghamparent.com | 47
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JULY / AUGUST 2021
CALENDAR OF EVENTS In this issue of Birmingham Parent, you’ll see more and more in-person events, along with virtual events, as we transition to opening up from the pandemic. Enjoy many outdoor events in July and August, like area farmers’ markets and the Happy Healthy Kids Fair August 7, all held outdoors. Please note that you should check ahead for ANY event to be certain times and locations have not changed, and check out our most up-to-date calendar online at https://birminghamparent. com/directory/events/#!/ for current and new events that have recently been added.
HIGHLIGHTS July 4
Thunder on the Mountain 2021 9-10pm, over Vulcan Park and Museum. For many years Fourth of July celebrations in the greater Birmingham area have culminated with friends and family gathering to watch fireworks. Hear great music and celebrate the nation’s independence. In fact, Birmingham’s annual fireworks display is the biggest in the state of Alabama. www.visitvulcan.com. FREE
August 7 Birmingham Parent’s Happy, Healthy Kids Fair 11am-4pm, The Outlet Shops of Grand River. The 7th annual, all about back-to-school event is now back as an outdoor expo! Swag bags filled with great discounts and gifts inside given to the first 200 attendees! Information and registration online at www.birminghamparent. com. FREE birminghamparent.com 49 birminghamparent.com || 49
East Lake Market 8am-noon, 7753 1st Ave. S. Jams, jellies, relishes, and fresh bread made in the East Lake Community Kitchen, plus East Lake Farmers Market t-shirts and other gear. www.birmingham365.org.
SATURDAYS IN JULY & AUGUST July and August are months when many great farmers markets are open in our area. Not only can you find great produce and other food items, but many even offer gift items and entertainment. See calendar listings for a great farmers’ market near you!
JULY
is a great way to eat lunch on your break for work. www.birmingham365.org. $20
1 Thursday
Unity Market 4-7pm, Unity of Birmingham, Highland Park. Market features all small, local food and farm businesses that share in their passion for real food and sustainable food systems. www.birmingham365.org, Instagram, @unitymarketbham.
Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting 5:30-6:30pm, online. Alcoholics Anonymous meetings open to anyone seeking recovery. 869456-6003, calendar.uab.edu. CRC Open Recovery Meeting 6-7pm, online. The UAB Collegiate Recovery Community hosts weekly support meetings intended for those in or seeking recovery from substance use and co-occurring disorders. Meetings conducted via Zoom calendar. uab.edu. Thursdays at Arlington Curbside 11am-2pm, Arlington Historic House, Thursdays at Arlington
2 Friday Indoor Pickleball 8am-noon, Pelham Rec Center Gym. http://pelhamalabama. gov/calendar.aspx?EID=2256, pelhamalabama.gov. Language Partners 9:30-10:45am, virtual. Join INTO UAB for the Summer Virtual
Language Partners series. Practice your English speaking and listening skills, learn about American culture, and make new friends! Contact Meghan Gilliland, meghan13@uab.edu., calendar.uab.edu. Outdoor Pickleball 8am-noon, Pelham City Park. http://pelhamalabama.gov/ calendar.aspx?EID=2292, pelhamalabama.gov.
3 Saturday Bessemer Farmers Market 8am-noon, Bessemer Recreation Center. Showcases products from socially disadvantaged farmers (poor farmers, farmers of color, and women farmers) and more. www.birmingham365.org.
Hueytown Harvest Farmers Market 8am-noon, Hueytown Stadium Park. Alabama-grown fruits and vegetables, local artists, food producers and a children's tent. Bring your lawn chair, your furry friend and stay awhile. www.birmingham365.org. The Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Three acres of tents with farmers, makers and food vendors, live music and chef demos at 9am. Curbside market available. www.birmingham365.org. The Marketplace at Lee Branch 7:30am-noon, Lee Branch Shopping Center, An open-air, rain or shine farmers market for high quality fresh, locally-grown vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers; grass fed pork and beef, FREE-range chickens and eggs or fresh fruits, nuts, organic food, cheeses, preserves and breads. www.birmingham365.org. Trussville Fresh Farmers Market 8am-noon, Church of the Holy Cross, Fresh locally grown produce. www.birmingham365.org. Valleydale Farmers Market 8am-noon, 4601 Valleydale Road. Fresh, local produce, Alabama honey, eggs, dairy, jams/jellies, and homemade goods, baked goods, handmade soaps, handmade art, artisan pasta, woodworks, metalworks, jewelry, children’s clothing and accessories, dog treats and collars, locally roasted coffee and more. www.birmingham365.org.
PLEASE NOTE: Calendar information should be uploaded to our website at https://portal.cityspark.com/EventEntry/EventEntry/BirminghamParent and may appear in print if uploaded by deadline. You may also go to www.birminghamparent.com and simply click on the calendar icon. Entries added online after the print deadline will not appear in the print version. Information cannot be accepted over the phone. Birmingham Parent publishes a calendar 6 times a year. January events are included in the November/December issue. Deadline for the September/ October 2021 issue is Friday, August 6, 2021. Guidelines: Birmingham Parent’s calendar is intended to be a resource and service to the community and our readers. Events which are open to the public, fundraisers, free classes, etc., are events that may be included in our monthly calendar. We reserve the right to reject any event or listing due to rules or space restrictions. For questions regarding calendar entries, call 205-624-2405 or e-mail calendar@birminghamparent.com. Due to the pandemic, all events may not be up to date nor have accurate times. Some events may even be canceled. Note, many events currently are VIRTUAL. Be sure to check ahead with the actual venue. 50 | birminghamparent | JULY / AUGUST 2021
4 Sunday – Independence Day Career Event -Miles College Students & 2020 Grads 7am-7pm, virtual. www.eventbrite.com. Free Sunday Yoga Series 2pm-3pm, Cahaba Brewing Company. Weekly physically distanced yoga class led by Hayley Holdridge, a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT), with over 200 hours of experience. All tickets include a yoga class and a pint. All proceeds will be donated to a different charity each month. www.birmingham365.org.
as well as their family and close friends. 205-488-0778, calendar.uab.edu.
Soccer: Birmingham Legion vs Memphis 901 FC 6:30pm, BBVA Compass Field. Birmingham Legion FC is the Magic City's first and only locally owned and operated professional soccer franchise. The club plays home matches at BBVA Field, on the campus of UAB. www. birmingham365.org. $15 - $35
for those who have had bariatric surgery or just want more information on weight loss surgery. www.eventbrite.com. FREE
11 Sunday
16 Friday
Storytime Shorts 10:30-10:45am, Hoover Library. HPL Kids Facebook and YouTube, 205-444-7800, hoover.libnet.info.
Lake Wilborn Farmers Market 4-7pm, The Parc at Lake Wilborn. Hoover's newest market features local produce, handmade goods, & family fun. www.birmingham365.org.
9 to 5 7pm, The Alabama Theatre. 205-252-2262. $10
Telling Tales 10:15-11:15am, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Story time for older children at the library. www.eventbrite.com. FREE
Singin' In the Rain 2pm, The Alabama Theatre, 205-252-2262. $10
West Homewood Farmers Market 5-8pm, West Homewood. Find some of Alabama's favorite food trucks parked at the market along with the best local farms and all kinds of arts and crafts vendors. www.birmingham365.org.
7 Wednesday
Vestavia Hills Farmers Market 10am-1pm, Scout Square. Fruit, vegetables, herbs, jellies, flowers, chicken meat, frozen Greek food, olive oil and balsamic vinegar, casseroles, bread pudding and cheesecakes, pound cakes, prepared leaf teas,and more. www.birmingham365.org.
8 Thursday Thunder on the Mountain 2021 9pm, Vulcan Park. The beloved fireworks show, the biggest in the state of Alabama, is back for 2021! Gather in your favorite spot near Vulcan Park to enjoy the show. www.visitvulcan.com. FREE
5 Monday Pelham ASL (American Sign Language) Meetup 6-7pm, Pelham Library. A social designed to bring people from the deaf and hearing worlds together. Anyone with an interest in sign language from beginner to expert welcome. Refreshments served. http://pelhamalabama. gov/calendar.aspx?EID=2206, pelhamalabama.gov.
6 Tuesday Drama Workshop Ages 8-11 5:30-6:15pm, Albert L. Scott Library. Learn acting skills and perform short skits. www.eventbrite.com. FREE UAB Connections Support Group 10:30am-noon, Callahan Eye Hospital. Offers a combination of educational, social, and recreational/leisure activities for adults with various eye disorders
Art for Little Learners Noon, Pelham Rec Center. http:// pelhamalabama.gov/calendar. aspx?EID=2228, pelhamalabama.gov. Preserve Farmers Market 4-7pm, Preserve Farmers Market, Hoover. Family-friendly event for all ages. Live music, kids activities, food trucks and local produce and goods. www.birmingham365.org
9 Friday Glow Walk & Movie in the Park 6-10pm, Fun Go Holler Park, Pelham. http://pelhamalabama. gov/calendar.aspx?EID=2252, pelhamalabama.gov. Grease Sing-A-Long 7pm, The Alabama Theatre. 205-252-2262. $10 The Masked Singer National Tour 7:30pm, BJCC Concert Hall. $37.50
Saturday, July 10 KIDZ BOP Live 2020 Tour 7pm, Oak Mountain Amphitheatre. KIDZ BOP Kids, www.birmingham365.org. $25
12 Monday Drumming Program 1-1:50pm, Pelham Rec Center. http://pelhamalabama.gov/ calendar.aspx?EID=2219, pelhamalabama.gov. Indoor Evening Pickleball 5 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Pelham Rec Center Gym. http:// pelhamalabama.gov/calendar. aspx?EID=2274, pelhamalabama.gov. Jammin' & Drumming 11:15am-noon, Pelham Rec Center. http://pelhamalabama. gov/calendar.aspx?EID=2313, pelhamalabama.gov. Special Education Information Session 5-6pm, virtual. Are you interested in teaching special education? Earn your graduate degree from the UAB School of Education. Learn more at a virtual information session. calendar.uab.edu.
Bingo at the Senior Center 10-10:45am, Pelham Senior Center. http://pelhamalabama. gov/calendar.aspx?EID=2222, pelhamalabama.gov.
18 Sunday The Princess Bride 2pm, The Alabama Theatre. 205-252-2262. $10
19 Monday Crafting Together 9:30-11am, Pelham Senior Center. http://pelhamalabama. gov/calendar.aspx?EID=2224, pelhamalabama.gov.
21 Wednesday Let's Garden 1-2pm, Pelham Senior Center. http://pelhamalabama.gov/ calendar.aspx?EID=2217, pelhamalabama.gov. Moon Madness 9am-5pm, McWane Science Center. July 20 marks the anniversary of the Apollo moon landing. Join McWane all week for out-of-this-world programming to celebrate our moon and more. 205-714-8300. www.mcwane.org.
23 Friday The Color Purple 7pm, The Alabama Theatre. 205-252-2262. $10
13 Tuesday
25 Sunday
Audubon at Home: Bird Banding Basics 5:30-6:30pm, online. Preregistration required by noon Monday, July 12; space limited. Bird banding has been used to study birds as early as the 1600s. Information, register, https://alaudubon.org/ event/2021-07-13/. FREE
The Wizard of Oz 2pm, The Alabama Theatre. 205-252-2262. $10
Birmingham Barons vs Rocket City Trash Pandas 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com. Weight Loss Support Group 10-11am, virtual. Grandview Medical Center offers this group
28 Wednesday Picture Perfect Postcards Watercolor Workshop 7-8:30pm, Hoover Library. Postcard design features the iconic Alabama Theater. Registration required. Recommended 12 & up. Kits will be ready for pick up beginning July 21. 205-444-7800 hoover.libnet.inf
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29 Thursday Disney's The Little Mermaid JR. Noon, Virginia Samford Theatre. Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories, this is an enchanting look at the sacrifices we all make for love and acceptance. July 29-August 8; Thursdays-Fridays at 7:30pm, Saturdays at 11am, Sundays at 2:30pm. Tickets: $25, General Admission Social Distance Seating, $20 Student. www.facebook.com.
Friday, July 30 Let's Get Painting - Button Tree 5:15-7pm, Pelham Rec Center. http://pelhamalabama.gov/ calendar.aspx?EID=2234, pelhamalabama.gov.
Join us at the 7th Annual Birmingham Parent’s Happy, Healthy Kids Fair, 11am-4pm, The Outlet Shops of Grand River. Face painting is one of the many fun activies you can enjoy at the all about back-to-school event on August 7th.
Steel Magnolias 7pm, The Alabama Theatre. 205-252-2262, $10.
31 Saturday Birmingham Legion vs Atlanta United 2 6:30pm, BBVA Compass Field. Birmingham Legion FC is the Magic City's first and only locally owned and operated professional soccer franchise. The club plays home matches at BBVA Field, on the UAB campus. www. birmingham365.org. $15-$35
AUGUST 1 Sunday
2 Monday Pelham ASL (American Sign Language) Meetup 6-7pm, Pelham Library, see July 5.
Baseball: Birmingham Barons vs Mississippi Braves 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com
5 Thursday
Children's Glass Art 1:30-2:30pm, Pelham Rec Center. http://pelhamalabama. gov/calendar.aspx?EID=2230, pelhamalabama.gov.
6 Friday
Blippi The Musical 6pm, BJCC Concert Hall. $28-$58
19th Annual Heart of the House Gala presented by Medical Properties Trust 6-11pm. Heart of the House Gala is an annual event that brings Ronald McDonald Charities of Alabama. An in-person and virtual gala will be offered. Information. www.rmhca.org.
The Sound of Music 2pm, The Alabama Theatre. 205-252-2262. $10
Birmingham Parent’s Happy, Healthy Kids Fair 11am-4pm, The Outlet Shops of Grand River. The 7th annual, all about back-to-school event is now back as an outdoor expo! Swag bags filled with great discounts and gifts inside given to the first 200 attendees! Information, www.birminghamparent.com. FREE ALABAMA 50th Anniversary Tour 7pm, Oak Mountain Amphitheatre. ALABAMA reeled off 21 straight No. 1 singles and 73 albums, and were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Information, www.birmingham365.org.
10 Tuesday Birmingham Barons vs Chattanooga Lookouts 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com
52 | birminghamparent | JULY / AUGUST 2021
11 Wednesday Sensory Story Time 3:30-4:30pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Miss Rhoda combines books, songs and movement designed for children with sensory integration challenges. www.eventbrite.com. FREE
3 Tuesday
Adult Glass Art 2:45-4:15pm, Pelham Rec Center. http://pelhamalabama. gov/calendar.aspx?EID=2232, pelhamalabama.gov.
Line Dancing Workshop 1:30-4:30pm, Pelham Rec Center Gym. http://pelhamalabama. gov/calendar.aspx?EID=2247, pelhamalabama.gov.
7 Saturday
Birmingham Legion vs Sporting Kansas City II 7pm, BBVA Compass Field. Birmingham Legion FC is the Magic City's first and only locally owned and operated professional soccer franchise. The club plays home matches at BBVA Field, on the UAB campus. www. birmingham365.org. $15-$35
14 Saturday Picasso Pets 2021: Diamonds are Furever 6-10pm, Hand in Paw fundraising event. Information, handinpaw.org.
21 Saturday Alabama 59ers Basketball 4-7pm, Fairfield High Preparatory School. Pro basketball is back! www.eventbrite.com. Bessemer Public Library Local Author Extravaganza 10am-noon, Bessemer Public Library. The Local Authors
Extravaganza is the perfect environment to meet many Alabama authors and hear their stories. www.eventbrite.com. $25
22 Sunday Soccer: Birmingham Legion vs FC Tulsa 4pm, BBVA Compass Field. Birmingham Legion FC is the Magic City's first and only locally owned and operated professional soccer franchise. The club plays home matches at BBVA Field, on the UAB campus. www.birmingham365. org. $15 - $35 23 Monday 23rd Annual Sidewalk Film Festival Downtown Historic Theatre District. Presented by Regions Bank. Through August 29. www.sidewalkfest.com
24 Tuesday Baseball: Birmingham Barons vs Montgomery Biscuits 7:05pm, Regions Field. www. barons.com. 26 Thursday National Dog Day - Celebrate the Dog Days of Summer 6-8pm, Pelham Dog Park. http://pelhamalabama.gov/ calendar.aspx?EID=2255, pelhamalabama.gov. 28 Saturday Birmingham Legion vs Louisville City FC 6:30pm, BBVA Compass Field. Birmingham Legion FC is the Magic City's first and only locally owned and operated professional soccer franchise. The club plays home matches at BBVA Field, on the UAB campus. www.birmingham365. org. $15 - $35
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EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS JULY / AUGUST 2021
PHOTO BY CHRISTY PIERCE PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISTY PIERCE
Due to the pandemic, many attractions may not be open or may have abbreviated times. Be sure to check ahead.
Barber Motorsports Park 6040 Barber Motorsports Pkwy., Leeds. 205-298-9040 www.barbermotorsports.com
Birmingham Public Libraries Find a library near you for fun events and enrichment! www.bplonline.org
Oak Mountain State Park 200 Terrace Dr., Pelham 205-620-2520, www.alapark. com.
Aldridge Botanical Gardens 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover. 205-682-8019 www.aldridgegardens.com
Birmingham Botanical Gardens www.bbgardens.org/documents/treasuremapforweb.pdf 2612 Lane Park Rd., Birmingham. 205-414-3900 www.bbgardens.org
Birmingham Zoo 2630 Cahaba Rd., Birmingham. 205-879-0409 www.birminghamzoo.com
Ruffner Mountain Nature Center 1214 81st St. S., Birmingham 205-833-8264 www.ruffnermountain.org.
Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame 1631 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham. 205-254-2731, www. jazzhall.com
Birmingham Children’s Theatre 1001 19th St. N., Birmingham, AL, 35203, 205-458-8181 www.bct123.org
Alabama School of Fine Arts 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd., www.asfa.k12.al.us
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute 16th St. N., Birmingham 205-328-9696, www.bcri.org
Alabama Sports Hall of Fame 2150 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham. 323-6665 www.ashof.org Alabama Wildlife Center 100 Terrace Dr., Pelham 205-663-7930. www.awrc.org American Village Highway 119, Montevallo. 205-665-3535 www.americanvillage.org
Birmingham Museum of Art Bart’s Art Cart! Free drop-in art program for kids and families features a different theme from galleries and art activity each month. Saturdays from 11am-1pm. Bart’s Books. A storytelling program for children ages 4-7. 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-2542565, www.artsbma.org
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Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 Ninth St., Calera 205-668-3435, www.hodrrm.org Jefferson County Library Cooperative Find a library close to you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment. www.jclc.org McWane Science Center/ IMAX Theater 200 19th St. N., Birmingham 205-714-8300 www.mcwane.org. Moss Rock Preserve Preserve Pkwy., Hoover. 205-739-7141, www.hooveral.org.
Shelby County Public Libraries Find a library near you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment. www.shelbycounty-al.org Southern Museum of Flight 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham. 205-833-8226 www.southernmuseumofflight. org Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park 12632 Confederate Pkwy., McCalla. 205-477-5711, www.tannehill.org Vulcan Park 1701 Valley View Dr., Birmingham. 205-933-1409 www.vulcanpark.org
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BEST of BAMA 2021
Family Fun for All
Come for the day and enjoy the night! SHOP outlets like Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Coach and Tommy Hilfiger. Experience fun new stores like University Pickers and White Flowers. EAT at Neighbors Brew & Pies and the award-winning Saw’s BBQ. PLAY at The Backyard with a drive-in movie theater, mini golf, live music and more. Strike a pose at The Pixel Room, the area’s largest selfie attraction. There is something for everyone and lots of family fun at The Outlet Shops of Grand River.
MINUTES FROM BIRMINGHAM I-20 Exit 140 Leeds, AL | (205) 699-3700 shopsofgrandriver.com
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