Bham Family - October 2021

OCTOBER 2021

FALL

FUN

Everyone FOR

Pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and more!

PAGE 24

Get Away for the Holidays Pack your bags for a seasonal destination that’s filled with JOY

PAGE 18

Cheers to 40 Years

Homewood’s Applause Dancewear offers the best in dance fashion, accessories

PAGE 22

Vineyard Family Services Feeding Kids in Need, Promoting Responsible Fatherhood, and Helping Families in Crisis Donations help us: Feed children in need and provide other essential items Deliver family emergency food boxes Aid fathers and mothers with parenting programs Support incarcerated families and children Provide at-risk teens important life skills

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2 Bham Family October 2021

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EDITOR’S NOTE It’s finally fall! I am so excited for the start of all the holiday things—from this month until the New Year, the weeks are filled with pumpkin patch field trips, Halloween costumes, all the seasonal treats, and then we’ll head right into Thanksgiving and December festivities. It’s my favorite time of the year. But I’m not trying to rush through it all. October is the best time to savor the surroundings— crisp air, changing leaves—and appreciate all the Magic City has to offer.

First, let’s get down to the practical side of the changing temperatures. Along with cooler days and nights comes runny noses, and flu season will be upon us soon. On page 8, Dr. Shannon Ross, a pediatric infectious disease physician at UAB/Children’s Hospital, helps to educate us about the flu vaccine in children. Her Q&A is filled with excellent information, so don’t miss it.

Even though we’re not rushing the season, it is time to start thinking about holiday plans. If you’ve ever thought of escaping for a destination celebration, then this feature is for you. On page 18, travel agent Jaime DeArman breaks down eight trips to take this November or December. She has expert tips, great ideas, and all the information you need to make it a great time to get away for the holidays.

I’m excited to have another essay from Sean of the South on page 10, where he writes about dreams. It might tug at your heart a little, so keep a tissue handy. Ward Williams is also back this month with a Just for Dads column about recharging your batteries so you can better fulfill your purpose. Read the story on page 16.

Finally, in the spirit of embracing all things fall—are you Team Pumpkin Spice or Team Apple All the Way?—flip to page 24 for the scoop on all the patches, corn mazes, and autumn fun your family can handle. We’ve rounded up all the spots for you. Now, let’s cross our fingers that the summer weather is finally retreating! We also have great content on faith (page 28), play (page 12), and food (page 14) this month, as well as a special spotlight on page 30, our Kids Who Shine column.

We tried something new this month, and I’d love for you to check out pages 17 and 26. There, you will find teasers to two great stories we are featuring online. One is all about Alabama’s newest Poet Laureate, Ashley M. Jones. The other focuses on Jones Valley Teaching Farm’s apprentice program. The full text of both of these great stories can be found online at bhamfamily.com. Be sure to check out our website and Facebook page for other happenings as well. Birmingham offers endless stories to tell, so if you know of a person, event, or business we should feature, we’d love to hear from you!

Stephanie Gibson Lepore, Content Director and Mom, stephanie@jbmcmedia.com

4 Bham Family October 2021

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ABOUT US

Bham Family is published monthly by JBMC Media, LLC, P.O. Box 26432, Birmingham AL 35260.

10,000 copies are printed and distributed at more than 650 locations throughout Jefferson and Shelby Counties.

DISTRIBUTION

If your business would like to make copies available to customers, please email matthew@jbmcmedia.com with your business name, address, point of contact, and number of copies you would like.

ADVERTISING

To reach the largest audience of parents in Birmingham each month, partner with us. Email matthew@jbmcmedia.com to get started with a partnership that will be a key part of your plan.

O U R A DV E RT I S I N G PA RT N E R S These folks are the ones to thank for our magazine’s success — spend your money with them, and tell them you saw them in Bham Family!

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27

Painted Personalities

11

RECYCLE RECYCLE ME! ME!

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Medical Spotlight Physican answers flu shot questions. p. 8

Families in Business Applause Dancewear celebrates 40 years. p. 22

Essay Dreaming with Sean of the South. p. 10

Faith Fishers of Men Farm serves families. p. 28

Active Living Kids Play Alabama ensures families can cover the costs of sports expenses. p. 12

Kids Who Shine Student brings eBookBuddy to Irondale. p. 30

Food Review Crestline Bagel offers three locations for baked goods in a kid-friendly atmosphere. p. 14

Get Away for the Holidays Embrace the gift of travel this season. p. 18

Just for Dads Advice for staying charged up. p. 16

Fall Family Fun Head to the pumpkin patch. p. 24

Arts & Entertainment Alabama’s newest poet laureate is the youngest person to ever hold the title. p. 17

Planting Community Jones Valley Teaching Farm’s apprentice program gives back to the Woodlawn city. p. 26

FEATURE STORIES

ON THE COVER

DENTISTRY FOR INFANTS, CHILDREN, TEENS, AND THOSE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Photo by Megan Forehand Kennedy

Amy and Jamie Griffin, along with daughters Sawyer and Cricket, on their family farm and entertainment/event venue, Helena Hollow on Highway 17 in Helena. The Griffins started Helena Hollow in 2014 on family land, where they collected animals and cleaned out a pole barn for hosting events. Today, the business has grown to include a full petting zoo for parties, wedding venue, and pumpkin patch, along with other fun family attractions like a corn barn, tire wall, swings, and rope climbs. helenahollow.com

Tabitha Jarman Gatrey, DMD

4823 Promenade Pkwy Suite 101 | McCalla 205/230-9000

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MEDICAL SPOTLIGHT MEDICAL SPOTLIGHT

ASK A PHYSICIAN FIGHTING THE FLU

the injection site, muscle aches, headache or, uncommonly, low-grade fever. In general, flu shots are well tolerated by children and adolescents.

Q: How important is the flu vaccine for children?

A: Children younger than 5 are at higher risk of developing serious complications from the flu, such as pneumonia, ear infections, and, uncommonly, death. Older children can also develop these complications. The flu vaccine has been shown to reduce flu illnesses, flurelated hospitalizations and deaths, doctor visits, and missed school days.Last year was a historically low rate of flu infections, likely due to measures to prevent COVID-19.

Q: Should any child not get the vaccine?

Q: What are the types of flu vaccines and is one more preferable?

Dr. Shannon Ross is a Professor of Pediatrics and Microbiology in the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Dr. Ross earned her medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine. She completed her Pediatric Residency and Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship at UAB.

A: Children younger than 6 months or those with severe, life-threatening allergies to any component of the flu vaccine should not receive the flu vaccine. Children with an egg allergy can get the flu shot.

Q: Is it administered in one dose?

A: Children 6 months through 8 years who have not received 2 or more total doses of any flu vaccine prior to July 2021 should receive 2 doses of the flu vaccine at least 4 weeks apart. Children 9 or older need 1 dose.

Q: Should parents anticipate any side effects?

A: Flu vaccines are very safe and rarely cause serious side effects. Side effects are usually mild and go away on their own within one to two days. Common side effects include soreness at 8 Bham Family October 2021

A: The two main types are an injection and a nasal spray. Both are quadrivalent, meaning they protect against four different flu virus strains.

In general, one is not preferable over the other. The nasal spray is approved for children ages 2 and older. It cannot be given to children ages 2 to 4 with a history of asthma or wheezing.

Q: What are some common misconceptions?

A: One of the most common misconceptions is that it can give you the flu. Vaccines do not cause flu illness. The vaccines are made with either killed/inactivated virus or a single protein from the flu virus. Another common misconception is that it is better to get sick with the flu than to get a vaccine. As flu can be a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and death, it is much safer to get the vaccine than to get the flu.

Q: How soon after the vaccine is someone protected from the flu?

A: It takes about two weeks for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection.

Q: When should the flu vaccine be administered?

A: It is recommended that everyone should be vaccinated by the end of October.

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Bham Family October 2021 9

ESSAY

THE DREAMER

BY SEAN OF THE SOUTH (SEAN DIETRICH) I had a dream last night. It was a pretty cool dream. At first, I’d hoped it would be a flying dream.

Because I’ve always wanted to have a flying dream. I hear they’re great. But alas, I never get those.

Oh, I’ve had lots of falling dreams. And I’ve been eaten by lots of alligators. I’ve also frequently been found standing in front of my third-grade class wearing nothing but goosebumps. But flying? Never happens.

In the dream I saw you. You were tall, lanky, with auburn hair, wearing the same shirt you died in—blue with a green stripe. Your same shoes, too. Old-school Nikes.

It was bizarre seeing you in such an outdated outfit. When you died, those clothes were the apex of high fashion. Today, you look more like Forrest Gump.

I’d never been to a universe like the one in my dream. Where was I? There was nothing but grass and sky for miles. The pasture was rich ochre, the sky was French Ultramarine Blue. It was like a Monet, only without the haystacks.

I was starting to get the sense that wherever this place was, it was more ancient than the young place I came from.

When you noticed me, you didn’t do much.

You didn’t even move. You just waited. But eventually you recognized me because you started waving. And it wasn’t a small wave, either. It was a big, huge, country-come-to-town wave.

10 Bham Family October 2021

I started jogging toward you. I immediately forgot about trying to play it cool. I was sprinting.

And mini flashbacks kept coming to me. Even in this virgin land of grass and sky, I still felt a twinge of pain when I thought of you. I was unprepared to feel pain here. The Gaithers never covered any of this in the manual.

I was remembering things like the time when I was a boy and I overheard the county deputy tell Mama that your body was unidentifiable because of the way you died, and how the county had to use your dental records to identify you.

Then, I remembered the family gathering in the living room to break the news of your death to everyone. And I remember my reaction. I wanted to run. I wanted to move my legs. It was purely an animal thing. I can’t explain it. I needed to fire up my quadriceps and feel some cold air in my chest.

So, I raced for the front door. I tossed up the latches. But my family pinned me down and kept saying, “Ssssshhhhhh,” like I’d suddenly become like a crazy person.

But I wasn’t crazy. I was just a little boy.

Although the two aren’t so different.

But anyway, I got over you. I went on to live a full life without you. I missed you, sure. But many times, I didn’t even think about you. I got married. Finished school. I had fun. I’ve been to Disney World twice. Dollywood once. I’ve had CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

back surgery, a tonsillectomy, various colonoscopy exams, etc. Believe me, I get around.

But I’d pretty much given up on ever seeing you again. No offense. I still love you, but you’d become a piece of my imagination. Your face had disappeared, and your voice had been wholly forgotten. Sometimes I even forgot the color of your eyes.

But in this dream, it was like you never really died at all. Somehow, I caught a glimpse of the life you’d been leading up here in the clouds. And I could tell that you had lived a rich, full life in this new place. Maybe even ten full lives. Fifty lives. Hundreds. I don’t know.

You were happy up here. Here you had your own place, lots of friends, hobbies, weekly choir practice, all-you-can-eat catfish, endless sunshine, a backyard as big as a continent, wild horses, freerange dinosaurs, mastodons, no cable TV news, limitless Snickers bars, and, of course, Elvis lived right up the street.

I don’t know how I knew all this, but somehow I did. That’s how dreams work, I guess.

I don’t mean to get melodramatic here, but when I finally reached your arms, you wrapped them around me and it was the best feeling ever.

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You held me the way you used to do when I was your boy.

I felt the same emotions I had that one time I turned a double play on first base. You threw your hat onto the ground, kicked your leg in the air, and shouted, “Weeeeeeee doggy!” just like Jed Clampett.

Or the time we hiked a portion of the Appalachian Trail together and stood on an overlook to see an infinity of pine-covered mountains. You started singing a song from “Oklahoma” like a big goofball.

My dream felt just like those times.

You squeezed me until my back hurt. And I squeezed harder. All of a sudden, I could smell your hair. And the scent from your shirt. I saw the color of your eyes. The dimple in your chin that you never could quite shave. The skin tag on your left eyelid. The coarse texture of your hair. You came back to me. I remembered every centimeter of you.

Then you wiped tears from my eyes, took my hand and, without waiting for me to speak, we leapt straight upward into the air. Like birds. Like two sparrows who had both been through a lot, but still survived.

And I had my first flying dream.

The Taste of Hoover celebrates the variety of culinary styles found throughout our city.

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Bham Family October 2021 11

ACTIVE LIVING

PHOTO BY NIK SHULIAHIN

Kids Play Alabama seeks to shrink the gap of participation in sports by youth from lower-income families.

Playing for a Cause All youth deserve the chance to participate in an organized sport.

Kids Play Alabama is making sure they get it Susan Downs has a heart for letting kids be kids. An extensive background in education, nonprofits, and her own experience as a single mom helped fuel that passion.

After graduating from Samford University and the University of Louisville, Susan embarked on her professional journey in education, serving as both a teacher and an administrator and then principal of three schools in Alabama and Georgia. In addition, she spent many hands-on years facilitating student leadership training, and in 1990 she also created the Junior United Nations Assembly (JUNA). JUNA won two national recognitions for outstanding programming. She’s also experienced in nonprofit management, and she worked tirelessly on the 12 Bham Family October 2021

planning and grassroots efforts to bring a Curing Childhood Cancer car tag to Alabama, the sales of which have raised more than $3 million for childhood cancer research.

During all of this work, especially in education, she noticed something. “Working with lowincome families throughout my 40-plus years in education, it became quite apparent that there exist many obstacles that prevent some children from participating in experiences that the rest of us take for granted,” says Susan. “I feel strongly in the benefits that playing a sport provides, and I wanted to see that available to all children.”

As a single mom who experienced the financial CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

struggles of keeping her kids in year-round sports, Susan could relate to the hardship, and that inspired her to start Kids Play Alabama, a nonprofit that seeks to provide scholarships to youths across the state who need assistance with sports expenses, including registration costs, uniforms, shoes, and equipment—which, of course, helps kids to be kids. In addition to founder, Susan is also the organization’s executive director.

According to research, organized sports not only promote a healthy lifetsyle, but they also provide structure and constructive activity, improve academic performance, and encourage participation in the community. All great things, to be sure, but as Susan points out, “Alabama is the fifth-poorest state, with 250,000 children living below the poverty level.” Despite the benefits, this means there are many families barely making ends meet who cannot afford to cover the additional costs of organized sports.

As noted on the Kids Play Alabama website, sports have been part of Americana since the early 1900s. Each year, 45 million children play an organized sport in this country. But because of the huge gap between youth participation from lower-income families versus those from middleto high-income families, playing a sport has become a luxury. “Kids Play Alabama removes this financial obstacle by paying the registration fees and related expenses for families who are incapable of paying,” says Susan.

Their mission is simple but profound: Kids Play Alabama is committed to making sure every kid has the chance to play. By helping families with these extra costs, Kids Play Alabama is empowering youth to participate in sports, in turn helping them to develop teamwork and leadership skills and confidence, as well as improved health and school performance. “We believe in the positive impact that sports can have on young lives,” says Susan. “And we provide assistance for kids to play who otherwise would not have that opportunity.”

Though the organization is brand-new, they’ve set a goal to provide 100 scholarships to youth across the state in the first year. (They will begin accepting applications in January.) “This is totally dependent on our raising the necessary funds,” Susan points out. “We have applied for grants from local organizations and corporations, but we also need donations to help us reach our goal.”

PHOTO BY KEITH JOHNSTON

Playing an organized youth sport helps kids to develop skills such as teamwork and leadership, as well as growing confidence, instilling healthy habits, and boosting academic performance.

THE PLAY BY PLAY •

Grants are available for students in kindergarten through twelfth grade.

•

All organized sports qualify.

•

Grants are issued on a first-come, first-served basis to families who qualify as funds are available.

•

Families may apply for assistance up to four times per year per child.

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Grants cover the cost of sports registration fees and additional expenses such as uniforms and shoes.

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The initial application should be completed online.

•

Kids Play Alabama is a 501(c) (3) public charity. For more information, to submit an application, or make a donation, visit kidsplayalabama.org.

A quote from Sue Castle, Executive Producer of PBS Sports: Get in the Game, on the Kids Play Alabama website sums up the importance of the organization’s mission: “The evidence supporting sports participation for young people is overwhelming...It has the power to combat everything from racism to low self-image to the high school dropout rate.”

Bham Family October 2021 13

FOOD REVIEW

Crestline Bagel Brings Flavor During the past 20 years, Crestline Bagel has delighted Birmingham tastebuds with real New York-style bagels. What was once a onelocation shop serving bagels and cream cheese in Mountain Brook has grown to include three restaurants, an extensive breakfast, lunch, and bakery menu, and full-service catering offerings.

Owner Jennifer Yarbrough is committed to the business of bagel-baking: In the wee hours, preparation starts for each day with bagels chilled to proof until they are boiled and baked in time for the shop’s doors to open at 6 a.m. (7 a.m. downtown).

Crestline Bagel offers an abundance of flavors, including classic plain, everything, cinnamonraisin, blueberry, sweet onion, chocolate chip, and jalapeno. Hand-mixed cream cheese comes in combinations like veggie, honey walnut, garlic herb, and mixed berry. Seasonal cream cheese and bagel options vary, but there’s always something creative to try.

We stopped in after church one Sunday for lunch and promptly added Crestline Bagel to the post-worship restaurant rotation. My husband chose a jalapeno bagel with plain cream cheese and declared it flavorful but not too spicy. I suspect he chose this “light” lunch so he could eat the other half of our daughter’s pepperoni pizza bagel. We ordered hers on a plain bagel. It came out with lots of gooey melted cheese and plenty of pepperonis; the cheese was golden and crispy on the edges—the bagel had just-right edges but was tender and chewy in the middle. It earned the highest praise from a four-year-old: “I want to eat this again tomorrow!” I managed to grab a bite for myself and immediately offered the suggestion of pizza bagels for an after-school snack.

On Sunday, I was in a brunchy mood, so I ordered a plain bagel with bacon, egg, and cheese.

The toast on the bagel was the perfect texture to hold a hearty scrambled egg, crisp bacon, and cheddar. (Good news for fellow breakfast lovers: Crestline Bagel serves it all day.) I washed it all down with a fair trade coffee and a few bites of house-made Salted Chocolate Granola. And a few more bites after that.

Sandwich selections are plentiful. My go-to is the Cranberry Gobbler, which is smoked turkey, 14 Bham Family October 2021

Who says bagels are just for breakfast? Try a pizza bagel with double cheese, pepperoni, or primavera, and experience the best of New York’s two famed food offerings.

Swiss, cranberry spread, and mixed greens. It comes on a wrap, but I always sub a toasted bagel.

You can build your own, or opt for one of the specialties like Nancy’s Chicken Salad (chicken, celery, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans), Ralph’s Pimento Cheese (spicy, with bacon and tomato), or the Buffalo Wrap with Vermont Cheddar and Ralph’s Buffalo Sauce. Several salads are all delicious, but I like the variety of the Church Street Trio: Choose three from chicken salad, tuna salad, pimento salad, and baked potato salad. When the weather (finally) gets chilly, stop in for a bowl of tomato soup and a gourmet grilled cheese with Vermont Cheddar, Baby Swiss, and Gruyere.

We finished up with a sugar cookie with royal icing and sprinkles and exchanged our dollar bill change for extra quarters. On the third try at the gumball machine, we scored a golden gumball, which we traded for a token good for a halfdozen free bagels, ensuring our imminent return.

Crestline Bagel has locations in Mountain Brook (66-B Church Street, Crestline Village), Cahaba Heights (4117 Crosshaven Drive, Vestavia), and Downtown (1500 1st Avenue North, Birmingham). Mountain Brook and Cahaba Heights stores are open Monday through Friday 6 a.m–2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Downtown is open Monday through Friday 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Visit crestlinebagel. com for more information.

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JUST FOR DADS

Meet the team keeping Birmingham looking good!

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Seeing the United States flag at half-staff has always provoked a strong emotional response in me. If I did not know immediately why the flag was not at full staff, I would ask or research online until I found out why.

During the past several years, it seems to be commonplace that there has been some tragedy, and I will confess that I have Ward sometimes just gone on with Williams my day and not worried about what happened. It seems like our flag is depleted. There is an exercise in our fatherhood curriculum where we get men to talk about their feelings. It is not nearly as awkward of an exercise as it may sound. We ask the men: What is one emotion you struggle with and what happens when you have this feeling? The feeling I often struggle with is being depleted, and when I feel depleted, I let things slip that I would not have if I was charged up.

How do bad things happen in life? The philosopher Edmund Burke says, “Evil prevails when good men do nothing.” When I am depleted, doing nothing often happens. In the Bible, James 4:17 says, “if anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.”

Our relationships, parenting, careers, and even our faith suffers when we get depleted. We must understand what it takes to stay energized and on mission. We all have a mission and a calling from God, and learning what that is will lend a sense of fulfillment and purpose. It is much easier to stay on track when we know where we are going We must formulate plans to stay charged up. We need to develop room for margin by taking care of ourselves and providing healthy environments for our families. We should be strategic about what things are important and of what things we can let go. Our relationships should be life-giving, challenging, safe, positive, and mutually beneficial. We must set aside time for those we care about. We must tend to our faith and create spiritual disciplines that bring life. We must protect our bodies and minds from harm and provide healthy nourishments to both. The great news is that we can flourish as a country, in our relationships, our churches, and our communities.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Ashley presents to an audience in Miami.

PHOTO BY CHRISTINA FRIGO

POETIC JUSTICE

Recently named Poet Laureate of Alabama is the first woman of color, as well as the youngest person ever, to receive the honor.

Ashley M. Jones has a way with words. It’s evident in her schooling—she holds a Master of Fine Arts in Poetry from Florida International University, where she also was a John S. and James L. Knight Foundation Fellow. In Florida, she served as the official poet for the City of Sunrise’s Little Free Libraries initiative.

It’s evident in her accolades, too. In 2014, her work was recognized in the Poets and Writers Maureen Egen Writer’s Exchange contest, as well as at the 2015 Academy of American Poets contest at Florida International. She’s been a finalist at the Hub City Press New Southern Voices contest, Crab Orchard Series in Poetry First Book Award Contest, and the National Poetry Series. In 2016, she was nominated for a Pushcart Prize.

Oh, but there’s more: Ashley’s work has been published on CNN and Academy of American Poets and in Harvard Kennedy School Journal of African American Policy and Lucid Moose Lit’s Like a Girl: Perspectives on Feminine Identity.

Her resume of accomplishments lists awards (Rona Jaffe Foundation Writer’s Award, B-Metro Fusion Award); author (Magic City Gospel, for

which she won a silver medal in poetry from the Independent Publishers Book Awards, and dark // thing, which garnered a Lena-Miles Wever Todd Prize for Poetry); and faculty member in the Alabama School of Fine Arts’ Creative Writing Department, as well as a core faculty member at the low residency MFA program at Converse College. A Birmingham native, Ashley returned to her hometown several years ago and founded the Magic City Poetry Festival, where she currently serves as director. Her latest book, Reparations Now!, was released last month.

And now her way with words is evident to the entire state—as if it wasn’t already—in her latest appointment as Poet Laureate of Alabama, a position she will hold for the next four years (2022-2026). Ashley is the first person of color and youngest person ever to hold the title and will spend her time visiting schools, libraries, and other institutions around the state, as well as lecturing, reading poetry, and conducting workshops locally and nationally.

We could go on—and we do, online. Read the full article and learn much more about Ashley and plans for her term as state Poet Laureate at bhamfamily.com.

Bham Family October 2021 17

FEATURE

The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE RITZ-CARLTON

Get Away for the Holidays Take your celebration on the road this year, and leave home behind for a seasonal trip that’s sure to make extra-sweet family memories.

BY JAIME DEARMAN For many, the fall season means cozy slippers, football, and holiday decorating. Before we prepare to swap pumpkins for Christmas trees, take a look at what is becoming a popular holiday tradition. Many families are now choosing to go away for the holidays. The trend started years ago during the Thanksgiving season but has increased in popularity and now includes other holiday times such as Christmas and New Year’s.

Traveling for the holidays is a way for families to make new memories, join up with extended family, and take advantage of school breaks. Birmingham is within driving distance of some fantastic destinations that are great for any time of year, but they become a bit more elevated during the holiday seasons. Whether your family loves comfy and cozy or fun and sun, there is an adventure waiting for everyone. Let’s explore some options.

MAGICAL MERRIMENT The most magical place on earth is a nine-hour drive or one-and-a-half-hour flight from Birmingham.

If you have not experienced the holidays at Walt Disney World, it is true magic for all ages. No one decorates for the season quite like Disney. From 18 Bham Family October 2021

Christmas trees that rival the Rockefeller Center tree to snow on Main Street in Magic Kingdom, it is truly spectacular. Some attractions even have special overlays; the Jungle Cruise transforms into the Jingle Cruise. Experience the cookie stroll or Candlelight Processional in Epcot, the holiday version of For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration at Hollywood Studios, or the holiday version of the Tree of Life Awakenings in Animal Kingdom. There are an incredible number of seasonal offerings to experience during your stay. In addition, a separately ticketed holiday party is offered each year.

SMOKY MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS Dolly said she was “Dreaming of a Smoky Mountain Christmas,” and it is easy to see why when you visit. Just a five-and-a-half-hour drive from Birmingham, the charming town of Gatlinburg is in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Gatlinburg and nearby Pigeon Forge offer a myriad of activities from dining and dinner shows, quirky museums, and classic mini golf to go-karting, zip line, and more. Retreat to a cabin or stay in the action within walking distance.

Take the experience up a notch by staying at CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

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Dollywood, where you can enjoy special resort features like story time and s’mores. Ranked one of the best events for the holidays by Travel Advisor, this is a memorable option with special Christmas shows, dinners, decorations, fireworks, and more than 5 million lights.

BEACH RETREAT Birmingham is incredibly fortunate to be within a short driving distance to several beach destinations—including Gulf Shores, Destin, 30A, and Panama City. Each of these locations is gorgeous and very familiar to locals. Other options a bit further away, but equally gorgeous, include Hilton Head, Tybee Island, or Vero Beach. It is a real treat to drive a little farther to explore a new beach town. Disney even has resorts on Hilton Head and in Vero Beach if you want that unique experience.

BLUE RIDGE BRIGHT Eclectic, cozy, and a mountain retreat, Asheville, North Carolina is a five-and-a-half-hour drive from Birmingham. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a great combination of award-winning dining, unique boutique shopping, and holiday light displays. A trip to Asheville during the holidays would not be complete without visiting Biltmore Estate. Each year, the estate is transformed into a wonderland with more than 100 decorated trees, 10,000 ornaments, 100,000 twinkling holiday lights, and an array of festive Christmas displays. Candlelight Christmas Evenings at Biltmore are not to be missed. Stay onproperty at Biltmore, or enjoy other local resorts such as The Omni Grove Park Inn. UNIVERSAL YULETIDE Another Orlando option is Universal Orlando Resort. Filled with thrills and adventure, Universal is a great option for families that want an actionpacked holiday. In addition, visit a holidaydecorated Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, and don’t miss a visit with the Grinch in Seuss Landing. A highlight at Universal Orlando Resort is Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s. Catch some of your favorite characters making holiday mischief.

Jolly ole Santa typically makes an appearance at the parade’s finale to light up the Christmas tree. A fan favorite, enjoy Mannheim Steamroller’s festive sounds on the Plaza Stage. While some experiences were modified last year due to physical distancing, 20 Bham Family October 2021

final event details have not yet been released for this holiday season. Universal features some of the best resorts with various themes to suit a variety of budgets and interests.

CHRISTMAS IN PARADISE Farther south from the Gulf, the Florida Keys offers a Caribbean feel without leaving the country. With lots of resort options, one is sure to fit the needs of your family. Enjoy the vibrancy of Key West or the nature of Marathon Key. Some activities may be seasonal, but deepsea fishing, dolphin adventures, and sea turtle conservation tours are just some of the activities you can choose from.

LUXURY LAKE OCONEE With lavish summer camp vibes, The RitzCarlton at Lake Oconee provides families with a lakeside retreat and a return to nature. Located near Greensboro, Georgia, this resort is just a three-and-half-hour-drive from Birmingham.

The property features rooms and suites as well as lakeside cottages for larger family vacations.

While you may think this resort is better suited for the warmer months, it is a perfect option for families who want an upscale destination but a non-tropical, relaxing atmosphere.

CHRISTMAS CRUISING For families wanting a mix of escape and fun, a cruise may be the perfect fit. Various cruise lines offer itineraries leaving from ports convenient to Birmingham. Guests do not have to worry about missing out on holiday decorations or activities, as ships are decked out and there are lots of seasonal activities, from cookie decorating, holiday movies, and family story time to appearances from Santa.

Disney Cruise Line offers a special Very Merritime Cruise, where you’ll find Disney’s private island paradise is transformed with “snow” flurries, a Christmas tree, and more.

These are only a few options for your family’s holiday getaway. It is always recommended to use a travel agent for your travel arrangements to help advise you of destination protocols, requirements, and details. Travel agents do not cost you additional money and can often save you money.

Jaime is a local travel agent specializing in family vacations. Visit jaimedearman.com or contact her at j. dearman@mmvagent.com for a free quote on your next family vacation.

Bham Family October 2021 21

FAMILIES IN BUSINESS

A Round of Applause

It’s been 40 years since the iconic Homewood dancewear store opened its doors. Here, a chat with owner Katie Wade Fraught is a walk down memory lane with her eyes on the future.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF APPLAUSE DANCEWEAR

Cindy and Buddy Wade, the original owners and Katie’s parents, at the grand reopening in fall 1991

BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE The Wade family is made up of dancers and dance teachers. And years ago, when patriarch Buddy Wade tired of paying the inflated prices for dancewear at conventions, he decided to open a place of his own, and Applause Dancewear was born. Today, daughter Katie Wade Fraught has taken over the business, but it was her parents’ foresight that got them rolling. “They saw the need for a dancewear store in the city of Birmingham that could supply an ever-growing dance market with the need for everything a dancer would not only want, but also be expected to have,” she explains.

A Samford graduate, Buddy started out as a pharmacist, but missed being around people, so he quit his job and sold cars to make ends meet while he figured out his next step. He opened a State Farm office on Palisades, then added Applause to his business portfolio. Katie’s mom, Cindy, graduated from LSU and became director, creator, and choreographer of The Star Spangled 22 Bham Family October 2021

Girls, a precision dance team that is a part of the Homewood Patriot Marching Band. After receiving her master’s degree from The University of Alabama, she added dance as a PE elective in the State of Alabama, which allowed students to choose it over a typical high school PE class.

“I sold my first leotard at Applause when I was 7 years old and then continued to work there every afternoon in middle school, walking down from HMS to the store, and then I would go to dance class at night,” says Katie, who danced from age two-and-a-half all the way through college, was a Star Spangled Girl from tenth through twelfth grades, and will—given the chance—still dance today.

“I worked through high school when I wasn’t busy with Spangle and Show Choir. I went to The University of Alabama for a year-and-a-half to study marketing, before returning to UAB. When I was 19, my parents lost their long-time manager at the store and asked me if I would be interested CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

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in helping while finishing school. I started going to school early in the morning and after 6 p.m. and ran the store during the day. I graduated in marketing, fully intending to go into advertising, but I had completely fallen in love with Applause and my customers. I decided to stay and take over the store for good. My parents were elated to know it would stay in the family and in good hands.”

Today, Katie handles taxes, payroll, licensing, advertising, HR, and any ownership-related issues.

Since moving to the lake with her husband, Brian, Katie drives in several times a week and works from home the other days. “In the last couple of years, I have been able to completely turn over or share the responsibilities of ordering new inventory, deciding what to carry, inventory and restock issues, hiring and training new employees, and any immediate issues that may arise if I am not available with Erica, my manager, who has been with us since she was in college at UAB,” she says.

One secret to the success of Applause is their commitment to hiring great staff—specifically dancers. “To state it simply, the reason we hire dancers is because people sell what they are most passionate about. It also means we start with confidant salespeople, because they know the products, they wear them, and they can talk to a parent honestly—especially a parent who has never danced, which is a majority of our clientele.” That knowledge and a no-pressure atmosphere keep customers coming back. Applause staff doesn’t work on commission. “We want you to love what you are buying and only buy what you really want and need,” says Katie. “Our original intent since my parents opened the store was to always staff it with dancers because we wanted the people who danced in the merchandise every day; they know best whether something is a worthy product.”

The merchandise at Applause covers a wide spectrum. They offer all styles of dance, gymnastics, and majorette wear for girls, boys, men, and women sizes toddler to plus. “We try to carry many of the brands that we hear mentioned by our dancers,” says Katie. “We also try to offer a wide range of pricing to cover dancers from novice to professional. We stay away from pricey convention dancewear because those are special purchases that don’t happen when dancers are stopping in for new dance shoes. That’s one of the reasons we’re able to keep so much inventory that dancers need every day.”

Katie’s hope is that Applause continues offering

what they always have: a little girl’s first pair of ballet shoes, followed by her first pair of pointe shoes and her brother’s first pair of tap shoes, then tights for high school dance team and college.

“And then the brother who took tap brings in his daughter to get her first pair of ballet shoes and the cycle continues,” she says. “Because every single person who walked in the door loved shopping here.” She is keenly aware of her good fortune to be a part of an incredible family business. “It is even more rewarding to tell people that we hit the 40-year mark and see their reactions. They’ll say, “Well that sounds about right. I’m shopping for my daughter and my mom brought me here when I was her age.” And when I tell them that I sold my first leotard at 7, they say, “Wow! Your parents opened this—how cool is that?”

Her parents’ fingerprints are all over the business still today. “My dad had been involved pretty much daily in making sure our store was always running at its best as far as making sure our lightbulbs were changed out, lending a hand and a truck to go to a shoe fitting, and as my constant who came by to check on me first and then our staff. He died suddenly and unexpectedly on May 8, 2014, just a few hours after spending lunchtime at our store. We laughed and talked about all our people, almost as if he was checking things off the list before he had to go. That will forever be my memory of him, that infectious laughter and smile as he kissed me on the cheek, hugged me tight, and said, “I love you my KK!” I realized that night how blessed my family was—we got to see each other every single day.”

“Applause is synonymous with Dance in Homewood,” Katie continues. “I remember stepping off the bus for a football game when my sons were in high school—we were about an hour away—and I was wearing an Applause shirt.

A man had looked my direction many times, and finally he walked over to me and said, “That’s the dancewear store in Homewood, isn’t it?” He had brought his daughter to our store and loved our place. When I tell people what I do, they always say it’s the dancewear place in Alabama. That is what my parents set out to build 40 years ago, and I think that is what makes Applause special. It’s built on a love of dance and our effort to make every dancer feel cared for.”

Applause Dancewear is located at 1629 Oxmoor Road in Homewood. They are open Monday–Thursday 10 a.m.–6 p.m. and Friday– Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; (205) 871-7837 or applausedancewear.net.

Bham Family October 2021 23

FEATURE MAIN PHOTO BY MEGAN FOREHAND KENNEDY AND SECONDARY PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GREAT PUMPKIN PATCH

Helena Hollow, left, and The Great Pumpkin Patch, below, are two local options for seasonal fun.

Fall Fun for the Family Our area hosts a variety of pumpkin patches, hayrides, and corn mazes

BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE From Homewood to Hoover, Cullman to Calera, and many points in between, there’s likely a pumpkin patch within a half-hour road trip from your driveway. Most spots offer activities to entertain toddlers all the way up to the older kiddos (corn maze confusion, anyone?), so don’t get tricked into thinking these destinations are just for the littles. Pumpkin patches are basically a one-day mini theme park visit, with all the food, fun, and family memories you can make! Bonus: Your kids won’t have any trouble falling asleep after a day at the farm.

4D FARM 4dfamilyfarm.com Where: 7182 County Rd. 703 in Cullman What: Barnyard coaster, duck races, hayrides, corn maze, farm animals, pumpkin patch, and more When: Wednesdays–Sundays until November 6 How Much: Day passes start at $12.95; purchase online to save off gate prices Don’t Miss: The candy cannon and pig races on weekends BENNETT FARMS bennettfarms.com Where: 1073 County Rd. 13 in Heflin What: The annual Pumpkin Patch with farm animals, a hay maze, wildflower field, pipe slides, concessions, and a wagon train; the Country Store sells handmade soaps, pottery, and more When: Wednesdays and Fridays–Sundays until Oct.31 Don’t Miss: Scarecrow decorating, live music every Saturday this month; head back November 20–21 for The Market, a vendor event featuring local artisans, farmers, and antiques.

CAMP WINNATASKA Where: 260 Winnataska Dr. in Pell City What: 2nd Annual Pumpkin Patch with games and hayrides When: Oct. 16–17 How Much: Free admission; bring money for extras Don’t Miss: Roasting marshmallows with chocolate and graham crackers…need we say s’more?

GRACE HOUSE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL grace-house.org Where: Homewood Central Park What: 8th Annual Pumpkin Festival benefitting Grace House Ministries When: Oct. 23, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

How Much: $10 for children (includes a pumpkin and all activities), adults are free Don’t Miss: The 24-foot rock wall and Milo’s Burger Bus. This year, you can preorder a four-cookie bundle from Cookie Fix with your tickets, available for pickup at the festival (a portion of sales benefits Grace House).

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Don’t Miss: Face-painting and food trucks

GRIFFIN FARM OF WEST BLOCTON griffinfarmal.com Where: 826 Griffin Rd. in West Blocton What: Corn maze, zipline, hamster wheel, bouncy barn, pumpkin patch, and animal barn When: Saturdays–Sundays in Oct. How Much: $10 admission for ages 2 and up (includes a pumpkin, or exchange your pumpkin ticket at the Nut Shoppe for a drink, cotton candy, or boiled peanuts) Don’t Miss: King-size corn bed and food trucks for a family picnic

SIMS GARDEN cityofhomewood.com/sims-garden Where: 913 Irving Rd. in Homewood What: Pumpkin and mum sale at the only Over-theMountain pumpkin patch, family photo ops, scavenger hunt, and arts and crafts When: Daily through Oct. How Much: Free admission plus the cost of pumpkins and mums Don’t Miss: Weekend treats from the Charlie Brownstyle Pumpkin Spice Café and the Scarecrow Trail with submissions from neighbors (vote for your favorite before you go!)

HALLOWEEN FAIRYLAND tannehillstatepark.org/events Where: Tannehill State Park in McCalla What: 200 campsites with trick-or-treating, moonwalks, face painting, and a bungee jump When: Oct. 30; festival (11 a.m.–4 p.m.) and trick-ortreating (5–9 p.m.)

How Much: Gate admission is $3 kids 6-11, $4 seniors, $5 adults (some attractions cost extra); bring money for a festival T-shirt Don’t Miss: Extensive campsite decorations and lights *Tannehill offers $5 hayrides at 6 and 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays through Oct. 23 PUMPKIN JUNCTION hodrrm.org Where: Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum in Calera What: A short train ride through the woods to the patch for pumpkins, hayrides, and games When: Saturdays–Sundays through Oct. 30 How Much: Tickets start at $17 for children and adults Don’t Miss: The train whistle! Listen out for the boarding signal about 45 minutes after you arrive THE PATCH AT HELENA HOLLOW helenahollow.com Where: 6027 Hwy. 17 in Helena What: More than 30 activities on 10 acres, including a corn barn, truck slides, and zipswing When: Saturdays–Sundays through Oct. 31 How Much: Admission starts at $12.95 Don’t Miss: Any of it! Helena Hollow was named best patch in the state; also try your luck on the mechanical bull HOOVER HAYRIDE AND FAMILY NIGHT hooveral.org Where: Veterans Park on Valleydale Rd. in Hoover What: Tractor hayrides and family-friendly trick-ortreating booths (costumes encouraged!)

When: Oct. 29, 5–8 p.m.

How Much: Free

OLD BAKER FARM oldbakerfarm.com Where: 184 Furrow Ln. in Harpersville What: U-pick pumpkin farm, corn maze, petting farm, and train rides When: Daily through Oct. How Much: $11 (includes a pumpkin); $1 cash discount Don’t Miss: Sunflowers and cotton bolls for sale; Halloween Party on Oct. 16 and Festival Weekend, featuring handcrafted items from local vendors Oct. 23–24 PENTON FARMS pentonfarms.com Where: 3595 County Rd. 59 in Verbena What: Patch, corn pit, cow train, corn maze, hay mountain, slides, wagon rides, and live music on Saturdays When: Daily except Sundays through Oct. 30 How Much: $10 (includes most activities and a pumpkin) Don’t Miss: The super slide, human hamster wheel, and a fall foliage photo op in the sunflower field THE GREAT PUMPKIN PATCH greatpumpkinpatch.com Where: 288 Hwy. 45 in Hayden What: Covered wagon rides to the pumpkin patch, bungee run, petting zoo, inflatables, Great Pumpkin Patch Train, and pony rides When: Daily through November 7 How Much: Free admission; activity armbands range $5 to $15 Don’t Miss: Halloween costume contest and a sweet treat from the Pie House Looking for a safe public trick-or-treat option? Head to bhamfamily.com for a list of Halloween candy-collecting spots and a bonus recipe for toasted pumpkin seeds.

Bham Family October 2021 25

FEATURE

Planting for the Future

Apprentices at Jones Valley Teaching Farm sow seeds of produce and education PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JONES VALLEY TEACHING FARM

Apprentices are employed

by JVTF and have the opportunity to grow, knowledge and produce, to lead their community long-term.

Many in the community already recognize Jones Valley Teaching Farm for its work with partner schools. For years now, JVTF has collaborated with teachers in partner schools to offer handson education in life science, math, social studies, language arts, health, and art using food as the foundation. Their dynamic curriculum includes farms on seven school campuses, helping to connect the students to the environment about which they’re learning. After-school programs incorporate the STEM approach as kids grow, harvest, cook and sell their produce grown on the farm.

However, says Executive Director Amanda Storey, the team at JVTF saw an interest in work at the farm, and they also knew there was a need for youth employment. So, in 2015, the Woodlawn High School Apprenticeship was created for students. “We felt that the teaching farm could be an ideal place for students to learn, gain on-the-job work training, and develop talent, while also experiencing all of the incredible life skills a farm can provide,” says Amanda.

Funded by PNC Bank, the apprenticeship offers participants the chance to work alongside their classmates and JVTF’s fulltime staff. Together, they prepare soil, plant, cultivate, harvest, clean, and distribute the fresh produce. Students receive farm training, 26 Bham Family October 2021

professional development resources, and oneon-one mentoring. Working in collaboration with Woodlawn’s Career Tech Department, participants can work during school hours to receive credit.

“We have found that students participating in our program have a vast range of career interests, from cosmetology to computer programming, agricultural education, and finance. Though the apprenticeship is based around the farm, we strive to give all apprentices a well-rounded professional experience to prepare them for any of these paths,” says Amanda. “Students who work on the WHS Teaching Farm usually have a great curiosity and are eager to learn more about the relationship between humans and our environment. The accessibility (across the street from the school) and pay rate are great motivators as well! Many applicants have past experience with JVTF Farm Clubs or lessons and reach out to us because they enjoyed those experiences.”

Learn more about these students and the Woodlawn High School Apprenticeship in the full article online at bhamfamily.com.

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Bham Family October 2021 27

FAITH

Down on the Farm

A local couple opens up their land and hearts to serve others

PHOTO COURTESY OF FISHERS OF MEN

Fishers of Men Farm offers outdoor activities to connect families with God and nature.

BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE In 2007, Dedra and Eddie Adams started their nonprofit, Fishers of Men International Ministries, after the two of them felt called to serve on annual short-term mission trips. Having been all over Central and South America—Costa Rica, Honduras, Brazil—and to Uganda on multiple evangelism, medical, and construction journeys, the couple also felt they should be ministering in the United States, too—specifically to the people in their community.

Growing up on his grandfather’s farm, a dream was planted in Pinson native Eddie’s heart to one day manage land of his own. His vision was a place where families could gather to not only create beautiful memories, but also build and restore relationships in the backdrop of God’s 28 Bham Family October 2021

creation. No stranger to ministry herself, Dedra was born and spent 18 years living in Guatemala as the daughter of missionaries. Six years after starting FOM, Eddie and Dedra purchased 80 acres in Steele, putting the vision in motion. “The dream for Fishers of Men Farm continued to grow,” says Dedra, “and in 2015 when our youngest, Levi, was born with special needs, we realized the importance of building a community of support for other families with children with differing abilities. Helping families connect to God and each other—and letting them know they are not alone on this journey—is what Fishers of Men Farm is all about.”

The Adamses aim to provide a safe, familyfriendly place where parents and kids can CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

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disconnect from the chaos of life and instead connect with each other outdoors in a variety of activities that take advantage of the tranquil environment. “We want families to make memories and build lasting relationships,” they say. Dedra adds that, guided by a Kingdom perspective, the Fishers of Men Farm “desires to minister to families and individuals who may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in activities such as hunting, fishing, and other outdoor events. We aim to continue developing our facilities to ensure that they are fully accessible to include all children and individuals with differing abilities.”

In that spirit, the organization offers two free events to reach the community. Inspired by son Levi, 5—the Adamses are also parents to Noah (15) and Caleb (13)—Levi and Friends Day is a day for families who have children with special needs. “We offer fishing, archery, and horseback riding along with other yard games, bubbles, coloring,” says Dedra. “And we have plenty of volunteers on hand to love on these families. If the parents just want to sit in the rockers and relax, they can do that while our volunteers take a one-on-one approach with the children. This day is all about community. It really doesn’t matter what type of diagnosis they have—we all just need to be around other parents, families, and siblings who understand the ins and outs of our daily lives, because knowing that we are not alone on this journey is what really matters. We want to be an encouragement for those families, pointing them to the One who can carry them through even the most difficult aspects of their lives.” You can make plans to join the next Levi and Friends Day on November 6.

A second free event, the Restoration Academy Farm Day Field Trip for first graders, typically takes place once a year. “Restoration Academy is a Christian inner-city school, and most of those children have never been out in the country, much less caught a fish, shot an arrow, or ridden a horse,” says Dedra. “They come out for a fun day on the farm, and the delightful squeals and giggles you hear all throughout the day are an indication that this is a day they will never forget!”

These events are possible thanks to individual donors, sponsors, and facility rentals at the farm.

“We rent out the outdoor gazebo, large covered pavilion, and an indoor event barn with full kitchen facilities for weddings, church events,

birthday parties, family reunions, etc.,” says Dedra. For a donation, photographers can make use of the farm for family, engagement, and even senior portrait sessions. “The property offers a wide variety of beautiful scenery including a 6-acre pond, fishing piers, a 100-year-old cabin, meadows, red and white metal barns, a gazebo, and much more.”

In addition, Eddie offers guided deer hunts on the property. This hunting season, Fishers of Men is partnering with another ministry that works with battle-wounded servicemen and women to offer them guided deer-hunting sessions. “In the short term, we hope to continue offering farm day type events to families as a way of building relationships and community,” says Dedra. “The long-term plan is to add familystyle cabins to the property for close-to-home weekend getaways. The dream is to be able to expand toward having a week-long family camp for individuals with special needs, complete with volunteers who are assigned to one person the entire week, giving parents a chance to rest while their children are involved in farm recreation and education.”

To get there, Fishers of Men will continue to rely on financial support from donors so that they can continue doing what they feel called to do, which, says Dedra, is to love and encourage families of children with special needs. “The next phase in our plan is to complete the road system to the other side of the pond, where we plan to build four to six guest cabins.” Factoring in drainage pipes, chert, gravel, and excavation, the expected cost of the project is around $28,000. Expenses for two- and three-bedroom guest cabins will range from $75,000 to around $87,000. “Our plan then is to build a handicapaccessible playground and swimming pool near the guest cabins.”

In keeping with the Kingdom mindset, both Dedra and Eddie agree: “Our greatest privilege in this life is to point others to Christ, and using this farm for His glory is what we aim to do. When people step foot on the property, they often comment how peaceful it feels, and they are right. Some may think that peace comes from the surroundings, but, early on, we dedicated this land and this ministry to the Lord’s service. We believe that His presence is what makes Fishers of Men Farm so breathtakingly unique!”

For more information about Fishers of Men, visit fishersofmenfarm.org.

Bham Family October 2021 29

KIDS WHO SHINE

PRIYA SONI, 17

BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE At The Altamont School, some students choose to participate in Miree, a leadership volunteer organization. In addition to regular academic work and extracurriculars, students must execute a Miree Project based on something of interest to them that also serves a community need.

Priya Soni, a junior, is one such student. She has been at The Altamont School since 8th grade, where she also plays tennis. Miree is a perfect fit for her, because “I am very passionate about service work,” she says.

Priya chose to bring eBookBuddy, an online program for students with reading deficits, to Irondale Community School. “It is such an amazing program because it helps in so many ways,” says Priya.

“I have been with them since two summers ago, and I am passionate about this work. It helps kids not only learn to read, but also to learn how to interact with others by opening them up to learn new things and challenging them to progress.”

The Georgia-based eBookBuddy program lends aid to elementary schools in local communities. The program began a few years ago and was instituted at elementary schools around the metro-Atlanta area.

Their vision is “to provide consistent opportunities to foster literacy in relationship through online meetings with a dedicated reading buddy. We envision our county, state, and country’s literacy levels rising through the impact of our model, for the sake of the kids and their life’s flourishing.” The program provides assistance to Title 1 schools, English language learners, immigrant families, and students who need extra reading help.

“We were honored to bring this amazing program to our community to help kids here in Birmingham,” says Priya. “Through the online program, students meet with their buddy for 30 minutes approximately twice a week for a semester. Our goal is to help kids learn to read because it is a crucial part of their education. A secondary goal is to build connections with kids to let them know that they have someone to lean on” In order to get eBookBuddy started in Birmingham, Priya had to facilitate a partnership with the program. “Through the Miree Center, we partnered with eBookBuddy to bring this platform to the city of Birmingham,” she says. “They were willing to grow and loved the idea.”

30 Bham Family October 2021

PHOTO COURTESY OF PRIYA SONI

The Altamont School junior Priya Soni brought an online reading program to Birmingham for her Miree Project.

Priya worked with many leaders, teachers, and mentors to bring eBookBuddy here, including Jin Lee, founder, eBookBuddy; Alicia Crewey, data and recruitment of eBookBuddy; Aarti Nayar, outreach director, eBookBuddy; Katherine Berdy, former Miree Director; and Beth Dille, current Miree Director.

“I then reached out to local schools, and we sought volunteers around the area. We really wanted this to be a community-based program, which means getting volunteers from the community as well as students.”

Due to the year of Covid, finding volunteers proved difficult. So did finding a school. “It was tough to find schools that were willing to partner with us and give us students,” says Priya. Eventually, Priya found a fit with Irondale Community school, where she continues to work with the program today.

“My favorite part of the program is the relationship,” she says. “When we partnered with this program, we did it because it is an great cause and education is vital, but after being with eBookBuddy for a while, the relationships and community I’ve discovered is unreal. One of the main reasons eBookBuddy is such an amazing group is because it helps to build connections with kids. This is also why it is set up as a buddy system, where you stick with the same person through the semester, so they have consistency. Most of these kids aren’t able to do a lot besides go to school, so for them to have a friend who gives them constant attention is huge.”

Priya intends to continue as a volunteer with the program even after high school graduation. “I am still very much involved, and I plan on staying. I hope to spread our partnership with eBookBuddy to other schools,” she says.

For more information, visit ebookbuddy.org.

Takes Takes On On Life.

Life.

Arielle has a severe blood disorder called sickle cell anemia Arielle has a severe blood disorder called sickle cell anemia hemoglobin SS. While her condition is high risk and complex, she hemoglobin SS. While her condition is high risk and complex, she

manages her disease well with medication and a monthly red manages her disease well with medication and a monthly red

bloodblood cell exchange atatthe Center Childhood Cancer cell exchange theAlabama Alabama Center forfor Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at atChildren’s ofAlabama.

Alabama. of over and Blood Disorders Children’s of OurOur teamteam of over 300 dedicated pediatrichealthcare healthcare professionals is committed 300 dedicated pediatric professionals is committed to exceptional patient care and innovative research – and driven

to exceptional patient care and innovative research – and driven to find cures for kids like Arielle.

to find cures for kids like Arielle.

To learn about Arielle’s story and how you can help, visit ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure 31 Bham Family October 2021

To learn about Arielle’s story and how you can help, visit ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure

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