Birmingham Fun and Family - February 2020

FEBRUARY 2020 | BHAMFUNANDFAMILY.COM | LITTLE BOOK, BIG RESOURCES!

Find your inner PAGE SUPERHERO 18 CARING FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS PAGE 28

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

www.vfsdads.com

2 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com

Specializing in Children’s Wear Gifts & Accessories

Shop local and support our advertisers! 3

PUBLISHER’S

NOTE

This issue represents the 12th issue since I bought Birmingham Fun and Family from the Carr family. It’s been a great year of meeting new people, learning a new way of working (after working for two larger newspaper groups in my 15-year career), and patiently planning for the future of a magazine with 20 proud years of history.

This month, I’m excited to share that we’ve made a big addition by hiring Jeana Durst as content director. Jeana is a mother and a writer who brings a tremendous amount of experience and expertise in the magazine world. I’m confident that as you read Birmingham Fun and Family each month, you’ll enjoy reading the stories she tells.

In this issue, we have focused on people and organizations who are doing good for those in need. Read about several community “helper” organizations on page 26; a medical practice committed to inclusion on page 25; and a horse ranch for children with special needs on page 28.

Our inaugural coat drive in November was a HUGE success...so big, in fact, that we didn’t get all the donated coats collected until mid-December. Once they were all in, we had more than 260 coats! Read about this effort on page 16.

February is a big month for children’s consignment sales. Check out our preview of several area sales on page 20.

In our March issue, look for BIG changes to this magazine...until then, have a great February!

Matthew Allen Publisher and Dad

4 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com

LOCATIONS BIRMINGHAM 500 Cahaba Park Circle, Suite 100 MADISON 8490 Highway 72 W, Suite 100 TRUSSVILLE 117 North Chalkville Road TUSCALOOSA 4700 Rice Mine Road NE VESTAVIA HILLS 520 Montgomery Highway Shop local and support our advertisers! 5 MADISON and VESTAVIA locations now open!

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

Tabitha Jarman Gatrey, DMD

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

psmilesal.com Maternity | Furniture | Accessories Specializing in new and gently used clothing for newborns to pre-teens

Mon-Sat, 10-6 Sun, 11-3

5479 Hwy 280, Ste 124 | 205.874.6655

6 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com

ABOUT US

Birmingham Fun and Family is published monthly

by JBMC Media, LLC, P.O. Box 26432, Birmingham AL 35260. 14,000 copies are printed and distributed at more than 530 locations throughout Jefferson and Shelby Counties.

DISTRIBUTION

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

ADVERTISING

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

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

ACE Cheer Company BHM Aldridge Gardens Applause Dancewear Backyard Adventures B irmingham Area Mothers of Multiples CakEffect Children’s of Alabama Compact2020 Cottontails Village Eyes on Chelsea Vision Care Giggles and Grace Consignment Sale Kasey Davis Dentistry Kingdom Kids Consignment Sale Korduroy Krocodile Larry Moore, the Magic Man McWane Science Center Painted Personalities

Birmingham Fun and Family Magazine

7 11 2 21 17 15 31 32 9 18 19 12 15 17 23 21 23

Pediatric Smiles Pigtails & Crewcuts Riverchase Day School S helby County Chamber of Commerce Sike’s Children’s Shoes / Jack n Jill Single Barrel Barber Shop The American Village Then Again Children’s Consignment TNT Children’s Consignment Sale Urgent Care for Children Vineyard Family Services Virginia Samford Theatre Vulcan Termite & Pest Control WAY-FM Wee-Peat Boutique / LuLu’s Loft Whale of a Sale Wrapsody

bhamfunandfamily.com

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RECYCLE ME!

CHEERLEADING AND TUMBLING CLASSES

CHEERLEADER TRYOUTS

Ages 2-18 ~ Daytime classes for homeschool and preschool children Evening classes starting at 3:30

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Come train with the best!

Birthday parties and team parties available

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Shop local and support our advertisers! 7

LOOKING FOR ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES?

All the

WORLD’S a STAGE Theatre group inspires generations

STORY BY JEANA DURST PHOTO COURTESY OF BIRMINGHAM CHILDREN’S THEATRE What happens when you cross a bunny with a vampire and invite a suspicious cat and an eager dog into the mix to investigate the oddity? It’s not a bizarre dream sequence; this is a description of “Bunnicula,” the play showing in February at The Birmingham Children’s Theatre (BCT). It’s just one of many entertaining happenings there this spring season.

Open since 1947, the BCT is very much entrenched in our community—and its collective consciousness. “Most of the people you run into in Birmingham who grew up here first experienced theatre at the Birmingham Children’s Theatre,” says Ashley Woods, managing director at the theatre. While the productions certainly stand strong on their entertainment value, there’s more to the children’s theatre than just that. Through theatrical experiences, generations of children have found a connection to their world and how to make sense of it.

Brandon Bruce, executive artistic director, likes to remind his cast that “we are doing our part to save the world here.”

The stories that BCT focuses on are usually based in literature, but they are always based in identity issues and adventure—and the growing pains that kids naturally experience along with these things. The educational enrichment extends beyond the stage: BCT hosts classes year-round. As Woods points out, these classes help to build self-confidence but also teach kids about “finding new ways to express themselves, understanding their feelings and giving voice to them.” Because the benefits run much deeper than theatrical skills, BCT offers many chances to obtain tickets for free or at a discounted rate. Look for Win Wednesdays on their social media accounts and sign up for newsletters to receive early bird discount codes. It’s all part of the larger mission to bring the powerful experience of theatre to all children everywhere.

8 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com

During Spring Break, take advantage of Tiny Tyke Tales, interactive theatre activities for ages 6 weeks to 3 years, or entertain your elementary-aged ones with a showing of “The True Story of Three Little Pigs.”

Spring Classes run Feb. 4 to April 9, featuring “Creators and Imaginators,” teaching ages 4-7 skills like developing story and getting comfortable with movement and voice. “Studio Classes” offer ages 8 to 18 a chance to build a repertoire, including an audition book, voice lessons and ensemble performance development.

‘BUNNICULA’ (MAIN STAGE)

For: ages 8 to adult When: Feb. 15-16, 2:30 p.m. and Feb. 22, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Time: approximately 75 minutes When a vampire bunny who sucks the juice out of vegetables comes to live with a dog and a cat, the detective game is on. This musical is based on the classic book series by James and Deborah Howe.

‘RAPUNZEL AND THE RABBIT’ (WEE FOLKS THEATRE)

For: ages 2 to 7 When: Feb. 1, 8 and 15 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.

Time: approximately 45 minutes This musical features the story of Rapunzel but turns it on its head as she befriends a rabbit and takes control of her own destiny.

Over 500 Booths!

Birmingham/Jefferson Convention Complex

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Friday 10am - 8pm

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All credit cards accepted Sunday Noon - 5pm

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1028 Marble Terrace, Suite 116 Hoover, AL 35244 205-989-7277

BAREFOOT DREAMS

wrapsodyonline.com @shopwrapsody Shop local and support our advertisers! 9

Review: Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken Nothing says love like fried chicken. It’s typically one of the first dishes our children learn to love, and many of us in the South remember the aroma of our parents preparing it at home on Sunday afternoons.

Lucky for us, in 2019 JOY Birmingham became home KING to one of the South’s most treasured chicken restaurants.

Gus’s Fried Chicken, which began over 60 years ago in the tiny community of Mason, Tennessee, has its first Alabama location downtown in The Battery (the site of the historic BEBCO building at 2201 2nd Avenue South).

It’s one of my favorite spots—here you can savor side items that are down-home, like the chunky potato salad, creamy coleslaw, grandma’s greens, baked beans or succulent okra. So next time you are too tired to cook, take a tip from me and visit Gus’s. They serve fresh, hormone-free chicken cooked in peanut oil, and the desserts are just as good as the entrees. And if

Friday, February 28 9am-6pm AND

Saturday, February 29 8am-noon

•

• • •

your little tykes have been on their best behavior, treat them to a root beer float!

Joy King, a local foodie and all-around funny woman, embarks on a new monthly feature for Birmingham Fun and Family. Joy owns and operates Eat.Drink.Ride, a local food tour company.

Learn more at diningoutwithcomediennejoy.com.

Early shopping passes for access at 8am on Friday are just $10 [and includes a TNT shopping tote!]

Early passes go on sale February 17 Select items 30% off on Saturday!

Children’s spring & summer clothing, shoes, swimwear, sports equipment, baby gear, toys, games, electronics, books, furniture & SO MUCH MORE!

Riverchase UMC Day School ~ 1953 Old Montgomery Hwy Hoover AL 35244 ~ riverchase-tnt.com 10 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com

4th Annual

Photograph by Miranda Miller

Opens February 17*

• Visit the only pick-your-own tulip field in the Southeast • 100,000 tulips to purchase and take home • A great Spring outing for your family (bring the camera!)

The Festival runs through March (depending on bloom time)* Open Monday-Saturday 10-4, Sunday 12-4* *Weather permitting. Check our website or Facebook page for conditions.

www.americanvillage.org • 3727 Hwy 119 • Montevallo

Also February 17 Celebrate George Washington’s Birthday with family-friendly activities and birthday cake!

February events at Ald ridge Gardens

Mad Hatter Tea Party TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 11AM-1PM Our POPULAR tea party is back, but seating is LIMITED! Registration includes seating for one adult and one child. Visit aldridgegardens.com to register! $35 AG members, $40 non-members.

Square Foot Gardening Workshop with Jan Rogers THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 6-8PM Learn all about square foot gardening from local expert Jan Rogers. This class will be held in our new education building, and a template with instructions on making your own will be provided. And, Jan will discuss what to plant, when, and where! $20 for members, $25 for nonmembers

(205) 682-8019 | aldridgegardens.com 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover

Shop local and support our advertisers! 11

Just for Dads Reddit asked men what they thought of Valentine’s Day. After receiving numerous responses, the answers ranged from “not an important day,” to “a very important milestone” to “a day to measure WARD relationships.”

WILLIAMS Do you know who loves Valentine’s Day the most?

Candy companies—almost one billion dollars is spent on candy each year.

But the news is not good for all candy companies: Neeco, the company who created sweetheart conversation heart candies in 1866, went bankrupt the past year, and there is a good chance you will not be able to find the candies that have helped countless dads express simple valentine messages over the past 150 years. This news just made a difficult holiday for many almost downright impossible.

But it pays to consider: Is Valentine’s Day

The desire to receive a valentine, candy gram, or, in essence, just to be liked and loved is embedded in our DNA. And for many children and families, this begins with fatherly love.

about the candy or something more? As this holiday approaches, I encourage you to make your relationships the focus. February is the month that people evaluate relationships, and that starts even early in childhood. The desire to receive a valentine, candy gram, or, in essence, just to be liked and loved is embedded in our DNA. And for many children and families, this begins with fatherly love. In an ever busy world, try to focus, not on candy or a specific gift, but on the best gift of all—time. Spend Valentine’s Day connecting with your family.

Ward Williams is the founder and executive director of Vineyard Family Services. Contact him at ward@vfsdads.com.

We aren’t just your dental team...we’re family.

589A Shades Crest Rd • Hoover • (205) 822-7277 • kaseydavisdentistry.com 12 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com

How Chamber membership works for me.

Keep them looking their best all year long!

“The Shelby County Chamber is more than just people it is relationships and friends. The Chamber, to me, is my family and has helped me reach people that ordinarily I would not be able to meet. I was welcomed with warmth and hospitality and I have grown my business exponentially with the Chamber’s help. The Chamber is a great investment for any business!”

Great haircuts with personalized service Appointments preferred 1830 29th Ave S, Ste 140 SoHo in Homewood

(205) 582-2999 singlebarrelbarbershop.com

Vicki Everett, Juice Plus + 332-5255 To learn how your business can benefit as a member, contact Chris Williams at (205) 6634542, ext. 103, or chris@shelbychamber.org.

3659 Lorna Road #121 Hoover, AL 35216 (205) 987-3640

T H E N A G A I N C O N S I G N M E N T. C O M

Voted Hoover’s

BEST

consignment store!

T H E N A G A I N C O N S I G N M E N T. C O M PHOTOS COURTESY OF FARM BOWL + JUICE CO.

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Innovation and excellence

CMS taps curiosity to inspire learning STORY BY JEANA DURST PHOTOS COURTESY OF CMS Creative Montessori School (CMS) enrolls 250 students each year at the toddler, preschool, elementary, and adolescent levels (18 months through 8th Grade) on their two-and-a-half acre campus located in the center of Homewood.

The school’s mission is to provide an authentic Montessori environment for its students.

With the Montessori approach, students are allowed to learn at their own pace, under the guidance of a professionally-trained Montessori teacher, who understands and nurtures each child’s interests and abilities. Children remain in the same multi-age classroom with the same teachers for three years. Older students have opportunities to mentor younger students and develop leadership skills; younger students naturally challenge themselves as they strive to emulate their older classmates. Students’ differences and individuality are valued over uniformity.

Classrooms are filled with engaging materials that are child-sized and self-correcting, motivating the child toward self-control and maximizing independent learning.

Designed to tap children’s innate curiosity and natural drive to master concepts themselves, activities are hands-on, multi-sensory, often collaborative, and seamlessly interwoven.

MILESTONES In the fall of 2018, CMS celebrated its 50th anniversary. Founded by Barbara R. Spitzer in 1968 as a private, non-profit school, it started as 18 kids in a church basement. CMS was the first private school in Birmingham founded as an integrated school, and the first to offer science, social studies, and foreign languages for preschoolers.

14

From 2012 to 2016, CMS undertook an endeavor to transform their campus into one that will serve rising generations of students. In the fall of 2016, students were welcomed back to a campus that included: a dedicated administration building; a new preschool and toddler building; a renovated elementary building; a dedicated library, language, and art space; a new cafeteria with a commercial kitchen; a multi-purpose community room; new preschool and toddler playgrounds; and a field with naturally landscaped spectator areas that serve as a uniting focal point for campus and a haven for children of all ages.

BUILDING ON THE LEGACY The Board of CMS has launched the “Advancing the Movement Another Fifty Years: The 50th Anniversary Campaign for Creative Montessori School, with a fundraising goal of $1,000,000. CMS hopes to break ground on a new gymnasium and additional classroom space by Spring of 2020..

K IN G D O M

&

Thursday, Feb. 20

whaleofasale.blogspot.com 5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M.

& &

M ER

whaleofasale.blogspot.com th

S SPRING & SUM

whaleofasale.blogspot.com

KID

CONSIGNMENT SALE

Friday, Feb. 21st

9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.

Thursday, Feb. 20th($5 Ticket Allows Entrance at 4 P.M. Friday, Feb. 21st(*ALLWednesday, DAY - Most Items Half Off!)19 to February Kid-Free/Stroller-Free Night, Please!)9:00

5:00 P.M. - Feb. 9:00 20 P.M. th Thursday, Ticket Allows Entrance at 4 P.M.

A.M. - 2:00 P.M.

Friday, Feb. 21st

(*ALL DAY - Most Items Half Off!)

Saturday, February 22

| BIRMINGHAM, 2061 KENTUCKY AVENUE9:00 35216 | Learn More: A.M. - 2:00 P.M.AL Visit -Free/Stroller-Free Night, Please!)

5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. website for hours of operation leofasale.blogspot.com

Ticket Allows Entrance at 4 P.M.

(*ALL DAY - Most Items Half Off!)

-Free/Stroller-Free Night, Please!) | BIRMINGHAM, AL 35216 | KENTUCKY AVENUE

whaleofasale.blogspot.com

&

Learn More: Featuring gently-used children’s, tween &

Friday, Feb. 21st teen clothing, shoes, toys, furniture, baby ofasale.blogspot.com KENTUCKY AVENUE | BIRMINGHAM, AL 35216 | Learn More: 9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. st gear, movies, books and more!

Thursday, Feb. 20th

M. )

&

&

(*ALL DAY - Mostst Items Half Off!) Friday, Feb. 21 5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. ($5 Ticket Allows Entrance at 4 P.M. 9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. Kid-Free/Stroller-Free Night, Please!) (*ALL DAY - Most Items Half| Off!)

| BIRMINGHAM, AL 35216

Friday, Feb. 21

9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.

New to the Sale: Bedding & Maternity Clothing!

(*ALL DAY - Most Items Half Off!)

Learn More:

2061 KENTUCKY AVENUE | BIRMINGHAM, AL 35216 |

BIRMINGHAM, AL 35216 |

KingdomKidsConsignment.com

Learn More:

Learn More:

805 Crest Drive, Gardendale

whaleofasale.blogspot.com Thursday, Feb. 20th 5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M.

&

Friday, Feb. 21st

9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.

Your Valentine wants something from CakEffect!

($5 Ticket Allows Entrance at 4 P.M. Kid-Free/Stroller-Free Night, Please!)

(*ALL DAY - Most Items Half Off!)

2061 KENTUCKY AVENUE | BIRMINGHAM, AL 35216 |

Learn More:

Place your orders early for Valentine’s Day! PLUS: Now serving cinnamon rolls daily, and freshly brewed coffee

1021 Brock’s Gap Pkwy, Ste 109 Hoover, AL (205) 803-5669 | cakeffect.com

Komeh Davis, owner “Bakers vs. Fakers” star on

Shop local and support our advertisers! 15

The Birmingham Fun and Family Coat Drive brought in more than 260 coats and jackets for men, women and children to support The Jimmie Hale Mission.

The gift of warmth Thank you to our community for supporting the 2019 Coat Drive

STORY AND PHOTO BY MATTHEW ALLEN Birmingham is always ranked highly on lists of cities that are most philanthropic, so it comes as no surprise that the first-ever Birmingham Fun and Family Coat Drive was a tremendous success.

“We put out the call to our advertisers and supporting businesses,” says publisher Matthew Allen. “The desire to help was amazing.

Businesses gladly accepted our collection boxes, and readers of the magazine and members of many different communities responded as well.”

The coat drive, which brought in more than 260 jackets for men, women and children, benefitted The Jimmie Hale Mission.

“These coats will fill a huge need for our residents,” says Andrea Nuss, a development specialist with Jimmie Hale. “It’s one of the greatest needs each winter. We rely on the generosity of the Birmingham community, and they always come through for us.”

Collection boxes were available throughout the

month of November. Businesses that participated include Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center’s clinics in Alabaster, Bessemer, and Homewood; CakEffect in Hoover; Columbiana Family Dentistry; Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids in Hoover; Eyes on Chelsea Vision Care; Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum in Calera; Jackie O’Neal School of Dance in Vestavia Hills; Pure Fitness in Vestavia Hills; Single Barrel Barber Shop in Homewood; The Whole Scoop in Hoover; and Urgent Care for Children’s clinics in Birmingham and Trussville.

Two schools, Cornerstone Christian School in Columbiana and Creative Montessori School in Homewood, also donated, with students organizing mini-drives of their own.

An example of what can be accomplished when our area communities join forces and show compassion, this Coat Drive could not have happened without their support. Thank you to all who participated in giving the gift of warmth this winter.

16 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com

Twice As Nice Sale

Twice As Nice Sale

Featuring new and gently used infant’s, children’s & maternity clothing, shoes, equipment, toys, books, DVDs, Featuring new and gently used infant’s, children’s & housewares, electronics maternity clothing, shoes, equipment, toys, books, DVDs, and more!

Twice As Nice Sale

Twice As Metropolitan Nice SaleChurch of God housewares, electronics and more!

Featuring new and gently used infant’s, children’s & maternity clothing, shoes, equipment, toys, books, DVDs, Metropolitan of God & Metropolitan Featuring new and gentlyChurch used2800 infant’s, children’s housewares, electronics2800 andshoes, more!

Metropolitan maternity clothing, equipment, Way toys, books, DVDs,

Way Birmingham, AL

housewares, electronics and Birmingham, AL more!

Metropolitan Church of God

Metropolitan Church of Public God Sale SaleFriday 2800 Metropolitan WayPublic February 28, 2020 Friday February 28, Way 2020 Metropolitan Birmingham,2800 AL 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm 4:30 pm to 8:30AL pm Birmingham,

Public Sale

Half-Price Sale Half-Price Sale Public Sale

Friday February 28,Saturday, 2020 FebruarySaturday, 2020 February 29, 2020 Friday February 28,29, 2020 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm4:30 8:00 am to 12:00 pm 8:00pm amto to8:30 12:00 pm pm

Only items marked with Discount Yesmarked or a “Y” with Discount Yes or a “Y” Only items

to the word discount are to sold at word half-price. next the discount are sold at half-price.

Half-Pricenext Sale Half-Price Sale

Saturday, FebruarySaturday, 29, 2020February 29, 2020 Customer Policies 8:00 am to 12:00 pm 8:00 am to 12:00 pmCustomer Policies No children under 10 and no strollers allowed on Friday.

No Discount children under and nobags strollers allowed on Friday.

Only marked with Yes or a10 “Y” Only items marked with Discount oror a “Y” Babies wornitems in Yes wraps carriers will be allowed.

No large next to the discount are sold half-price.

Babies worn in at wraps or carriers will be allowed. No large bags next to the word discount are sold atword half-price. or baskets allowed.

Shopping bag will be provided.

ONLY Cash, or baskets Shopping bag MasterCard and Visa are accepted.

CC allowed. transactions incur a 3.5 % will fee. be provided. ONLY Cash, MasterCard and Visa are accepted. CC transactions incur a 3.5 % fee.

Customer Policies Customer Policies

No children under 10 and no strollers allowed on Friday.

No children under 10 and no strollers allowed Friday.

Babies worn in wraps or on carriers will be allowed. No large bags Babies worn in wraps or carriers will allowed. be allowed.

No large or baskets Shopping bag bags will be provided. ONLY Cash, or baskets allowed. Shopping bag will provided.

ONLYCC Cash, MasterCard andbe Visa are accepted. transactions incur a 3.5 % fee.

MasterCard and Visa are accepted. CC transactions incur a 3.5 % fee.

Shop local and support our advertisers! 17

Run for it Families get in on the fun at the city’s premier running event

Channel your inner superhero and show your kids how to persevere to the finish line. On Saturday, February 15, The Mercedes Marathon Weekend will host the Regions Superhero 5k at Railroad Park. Each participant is invited to dress as his or her own hero to run for fun—or raise money for a cause.

Now in its 19th year, this race typically draws around 1,500 participants, who can opt to run or walk the course in the one-hour time frame. It’s a perfect choice for families to support a good cause and take on an active challenge.

As Race Director Kim Gillikin says, “Everyone can do this together.”

Afterward, you can stick around for the Expo at the Boutwell Auditorium, where more than 40 vendors will be showcasing their wares. And at the end of it all, you will feel even more like a superhero knowing the proceeds from this race benefit The Bell Center.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ENDURANCE IMAGING

REGIONS SUPERHERO 5K

When: Feb.15, race starts at 8 a.m.

Where: Railroad Park Registration: Online: mercedesmarathon.com (Online prices increase after Feb. 9.)

In-person: Boutwell Auditorium Expo on Feb.14; or race day at Railroad Park Pavilion from 6:30-7:30 a.m.

Race Fee: $35 Note: No strollers or pets allowed on the course

SAVE $$$ ON VISION THERAPY IN FEBRUARY

50% OFF in February $500 for 10 visits Visits are once per week for 10 consecutive weeks Call our office at 980-4530 to schedule a consultation

10699 Old Hwy 280, Bldg 2 | Chelsea (205) 980-4530 | eyesonchelsea.com 18 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com

Shop local and support our advertisers! 19

KIDS

CONSIGNMENT SALE GUIDE

BY JEANA DURST With Christmas squarely in the rear-view mirror and warmer temps around the corner, this is the time many families start to think about spring cleaning and how to sell or repurpose kids’ clothing and other items. The good news is that February is the month that many area churches offer numerous opportunities for savvy parents to

GIGGLES AND GRACE

Asbury United Methodist Church, 6690 Cahaba Valley Road, Birmingham

When: Feb. 21, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Feb. 22, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. (All volunteers get a chance to shop the presale Thursday night.)

Info: asburygigglesandgrace.com What to expect: You will find quality clothing for all sizes, babies through teenagers, as well as books, toys, shoes, baby furniture, and many more items.

What began 11 years ago with two church members now has around 425 consignors and 2,000 shoppers.

Vouchers offered to shoppers in need of financial assistance.

KINGDOM KIDS

Gardendale Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church, 805 Crest Drive, Gardendale

When: Feb. 19, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Feb. 20, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Feb. 21, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Feb. 22, 7 a.m. to noon (1/2 off most items) Info: kingdomkidsconsignment.com What to expect: Five hundred sellers feature used clothing for infants to teens, maternity clothing, shoes, accessories, bedding, furniture, baby gear, toys, and electronics. Thirty percent goes to the church to support missions.

Kingdom Kids accepts cash, check and debit/credit cards. A 3% fee is added to card transactions. Discounts offered on the last day.

consign and shop. The key is to know what you are looking for—and choose the sale that’s right for you. We’ve examined some of the area’s best and can guide you through the process.

In general, those who consign items know to keep in mind that items need to be clean, free of defects, hung and tagged properly. But what you might not be aware of is the fact that you can make your buying process more efficient as well.

GIGGLES AND GRACE

TIPS FOR SHOPPERS In order to make the most of your experience, area consignment sale representatives offered this advice: Volunteer to work the sale: Jennifer McInnish of Giggles and Grace says, “You gain insight into the sale and how it works, and you get a chance to shop pre-sale hours before the sale is open to the public.”

Have a plan of attack: “Know what you are looking for and prepare a list ahead of time,” says Alicia Baily of Twice as Nice. There will be a lot of items to wade through, and you could easily get off track.

Prioritize merchandise that moves faster: Kelly Norris of Kingdom Kids Sale says, “If you are shopping for baby gear, shop for those items first.”

20 Reach your market with us — (205) 617-9609 or matthew@jbmcmedia.com

Come prepared: If permitted, bring a basket or cart to hold your items while you shop, says Carrie Mellon of Whale of a Sale. This is prohibited at some sales.

Be the first to show up: Shop early to get the best deals on quality, says Kara Walker of Riverchase TNT Children’s Sale. Some sales offer passes to shop early for a minimal fee.

Stay late for low prices: Some sales will slash prices at the end of the sale.

Guide continued on Page 22

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Play Serts

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TWICE AS NICE

Guide continued from Page 20

WHALE OF A SALE

Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church, 2061 Kentucky Avenue, Vestavia Hills

When: Feb. 20, 5 -9 p.m.

(Volunteers shop at 1:30 p.m. and sellers at 2:30 p.m.); Feb. 21, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (discounts offered on final day of sale) Info: whaleofasale.blogspot.com What to expect: Shoppers will find spring and summer clothes, such as bathing suits, cover-ups and Easter church clothes. Other merchandise includes toys, baby gear, strollers, car seats, and baby items such as play mats, swings and high chairs. For a $5 fee, shoppers can shop at 8.a.m., an hour before the sale opens to the public.

KINGDOM KIDS

TWICE AS NICE

Metropolitan Church of God, 2800 Metropolitan Way, Birmingham

When: Feb. 28, 4:30-8:30 p.m.; Feb. 29, 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Info: https://www.facebook. com/pg/bhamtwiceasnicesale What to expect: This is the only in the Birmingham area specifically targeted to (but not limited to) parents of multiples.

It features new and gently-used infants, children’s and maternity clothing, shoes, equipment, toys, books, DVDs, housewares and electronics. Strollers and children younger than 10 are not allowed on Friday. Also not allowed: Babies worn in carriers or slings and large bags/baskets. An Ikea shopping bag will be provided.

Cash and credit cards accepted, and a 3.5% fee is added to credit card transactions. Checks, American Express and Discover not accepted.

OTHER AREA SALES BARGAINS ON THE BLUFF Feb. 28-29, Bluff Park United Methodist Church LIL LAMBS CONSIGNMENT Jan. 31-Feb. 1, Trinity United Methodist Church MARKET ON THE MOUNTAIN Feb. 28-29, Student Center at Mountaintop Community Church

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RIVERCHASE TNT CHILDREN’S CONSIGNMENT SALE

Riverchase United Methodist Church 1953 Old Montgomery Hwy, Hoover

When: Feb. 28, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Feb. 29, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. For $10, shoppers receive a TNT tote bag and gain access the sale an hour before it opens to the public.

Info: riverchase-tnt.com What to expect: This sale features gently-used spring and summer children’s clothing, shoes, shoes, toys, baby gear, furniture, books, swimwear, and electronics. Bring a tote to carry your items while you shop (or you can buy a tote for $5).

Young children are only allowed in umbrella strollers during the sale until noon on Friday, but any stroller is allowed afterward.

RENEWED THREADS March 12-14, Restore Building, Alabaster (10903 Highway 119) SWEET REPEATS Feb. 21-22, Mountain Brook Community Church TRUSSVILLE METHODIST CHILDREN’S CONSIGNMENT SALE March 13-14,Trussville First United Methodist Church

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MEDICAL SPOTLIGHT

Healthcare

PROFESSIONAL Know Your Fever Facts

We asked a pediatrician at Urgent Care for Children to set the record straight when it comes to caring for children with fever.

Myth: A fever requires an emergent evaluation.

Fact: Most generally healthy children do not require immediate evaluation or intervention for fever alone.

Fever itself is not an illness. It is actually a way that your body naturally stops the growth of bacteria and viruses and encourages parts of your own immune system to fight off these infections. Because certain populations are at risk of severe infections and complications, though, children less than 3 months old and children with certain underlying medical conditions do require immediate evaluation by a physician.

Never be afraid to clarify with your healthcare provider if you are unsure if your child falls into that category.

Myth: The higher the temperature, the more severe the illness.

Fact: The degree of fever does not always correlate with the degree of illness. How your child looks and acts is more important. When caring for patients, physicians will take into context how well a patient is staying hydrated, how they are behaving, how comfortably they are breathing, and many other factors to determine what is the cause of the illness and how serious it is. So, if you are concerned about any of these or other symptoms, even if the temperature is not very elevated, then you should have your child evaluated.

Myth: With treatment, temperatures should remain normal.

Fact: Fever will go away once the infection is cleared; this timeline will depend on the specific illness. The purpose of “treating” fevers with acetaminophen or ibuprofen is to provide comfort to the patient. If your child continues to have a fever despite medications, you do not need to try to lower the temperature with external means. Certain methods, specifically alcohol baths, can cause more harm than good.

Myth: Without treatment, the temperature will continue to climb.

Fact: In the setting of an infection, the brain is what created the fever as a response. It knows when the body is too hot and will not allow it to get past a certain point.

Myth: My child feels warm so he or she has a fever.

Fact: There are many external and internal factors that cause temperatures to vary throughout the day. If your child feels warm and you are concerned, measure his or her temperature with a thermometer. A reading of 100.4 degrees or higher may indicate a fever.

Dr. Hilary Anderson Dr. Hilary Anderson is a pediatrician at Urgent Care for Children and was recently named as one of Birmingham’s Favorite Kids’ Docs for 2019. She was born and raised in Kentucky.

She and her husband moved to Birmingham to complete their residency training at Children’s of Alabama and UAB. In her free time, Dr. Anderson loves spending time with her family, reading, and doing puzzles.

ABOUT URGENT CARE FOR CHILDREN Launched by a group of local physicians and entrepreneurs who recognized the need for continuity of care between after-hours treatment and routine pediatric care, Urgent Care for Children has five locations that treat newborns through ages 21 and is open 365 days a year. Weekday hours are 2-10 p.m.; weekend hours are available on their website. Offering an affordable alternative to emergency rooms, their pediatricians automatically send a summary report card to your child’s regular physician upon your visit.

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MEDICAL SPOTLIGHT

SENSORY INCLUSIVE SERVICES

Medical group responds to need for inclusivity

BY JEANA DURST

PHOTO COURTESY OF URGENT CARE FOR CHILDREN

Did you know that one in five people worldwide lives with some kind of disability? According to Kulture City, a Vestavia Hills-based national nonprofit whose mission is to create acceptance and inclusion for all individuals with unique abilities, only 20% of these disabilities are visible.

In other words, when these individuals—who may perceive the world differently—interact with their community, they may be misunderstood. This is especially true for children.

In 2020, it’s widely accepted that autism is one of the most common disabilities affecting kids (and certainly one of the most common “invisible” disabilities).When children on the spectrum don’t get the same level of awareness and acceptance of their special needs as kids with other disabilities, it can be particularly challenging—and heartbreaking.

One medical group in Birmingham is out to change the experience children receive when they are sick and most vulnerable. Urgent Care for Children launched the country’s first urgent care sensory inclusive facility in September of 2019. Dr. Allury Arora, co-founder and chief medical officer at the practice, saw a need to cater to kids on the spectrum, and Urgent Care for Children partnered with the nonprofit Kulture City to become sensory inclusive certified. This certification ensures daily accessibility of tools that make inclusivity possible and a staff trained on simple yet impactful modifications.

Even simple modifications, like providing a designated quiet space, can allow individuals with sensory processing needs to experience a physician’s visit without fear of overload.

“The families are really appreciative, and recognize the Kulture City logos in our waiting room immediately,” says Dr. Carolyne Craig, pediatrician for Urgent Care for Children.

Prominently displayed in the lobby of Urgent Care are the Kulture City Logos, letting parents

At Urgent Care for Children, parents can request a mobile sensory unit, a portable device equipped with an aquarium, fiber optics and light reflecting projectors that can ease nerves when waiting in the exam room.

of kids with autism spectrum needs know they are in a safe zone. Beside the check-in desk is a sign prompting parents to request a sensory inclusive backpack, which is chock full of helpful items including weighted lap pads, trinket toys to fidget with and noise reducing headphones.

“Every single person in our facility has been trained by Kulture City to best serve our patients with disabilities,” says Anna Montgomery, marketing manager. This means their staff know what to look for to identify children with special sensory needs and can make those visits easier for them.

Once parents and children are assigned an exam room, they can also request a mobile sensory unit, a portable device equipped with an aquarium, fiber optics and light reflecting projectors that can ease nerves during wait times. It’s this simple ability to mitigate a child’s anxiety and occupy their hands and mind that leads to a medical benefit. As Dr. Craig explains, “When these children are at ease and preoccupied, it makes the examination process easier and leads to a better experience.” As she points out, often children on the autism spectrum have trouble verbalizing their pains and symptoms, so the ease of the examination process becomes of utmost importance, leading to an efficient exam and an accurate diagnosis. And that’s one benefit all parents can certainly appreciate.

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Hueytown Community Helpers is a neighborhood nonprofit that provides food, clothes and supplies for school-age kids.

IT TAKES A VILLAGE Three organizations show just how much impact communities can have when they band together

BY JEANA DURST There is a multiplying effect to kindness. When one person shows it, another is more likely to follow suit. But what happens when entire communities catch that momentum and mobilize technology and church groups to meet the needs of the most atrisk kids? We talked to three area organizations (all registered 501 (c)(3) nonprofits) who are leading the way in this “kindness revolution.”

Many parents may be unaware that the girl sitting beside your daughter in science class is packing away part of her school lunch to save a portion for dinner in case there is nothing at home to eat. The boy who plays on the baseball team with your son may wearing last year’s shoes while avoiding complaining that they hurt his feet. That’s why local communities have stepped up to meet the most urgent needs—with a particular focus on serving kids who are hungry. “Food insecurity” is defined as the state of being without reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. According to the Alabama Food Bank Association, of the 48.8 million people in the U.S. living in food insecurity, 16.2 million are children.

A heartbreaking reality.

And it’s happening right here in our backyard.

According to Greg Bishop, founder of Hoover Helps, there are almost 200 kids in Hoover who are not only food insecure, but also homeless. But with the help of organizations like his, kids no longer have to rely only on a well-meaning school

counselor who could be overwhelmed with various needs and just “throwing crackers at the problem.”

NEIGHBORHOOD BRIDGES Bishop and his army of volunteers are taking the task of solving hunger and other needs to the next level with the introduction of a seamless online platform, called Neighborhood Bridges.

This online tool connects informed counselors in 12 Alabama communities with dedicated donors to fill needs for food, clothing items and other household goods. What’s unique about this system, which was founded by Rick Bannister in Westerville, Ohio, is its simplicity: A school counselor goes onto this website and enters a particular need, such as a winter coat, on the dashboard for their community. “They type in a few sentences and it’s done,” Bishop says. The needs are then claimed by Neighborhood Bridges donor members after emails are posted on Monday mornings. Next, local fire stations make deliveries to the schools. With 975 online members already, the fill rate hovers at an admirable 100%. When the needs go out, “They gobble them up,” Bishop says. And the beauty is that the counselors no longer have to make 15 phone calls just to locate some extra food items. “It puts wind at their back,” Bishop says. And it engages the 75% of people in the community who may not have kids in school and want to help.

Already operating Hoover Helps since 2015, Bishop was in a unique position to lead the

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business donors often meet other needs, like distributing school supplies, coats, underwear and hygiene items. And they engage with elderly community members who enjoy writing inspirational notes for each child.

Pelham is one of several communities that participate in Neighborhood Bridges.

Neighborhood Bridges effort. What began as a brainstorming session in his family basement, Hoover Helps has grown to serve 524 kids in the Hoover system by pairing churches with schools to supply food to needy in Alabama. Together his team helps to educate school leaders and counselors on the signs of food insecurity, which include children who are absent often, who rush though meals or hoard food, and ones who visit the nurse a lot. This educational effort reverberates, and along with the ease of technological solutions like Neighborhood Bridges, allows more kids to be reached. In fact, you might say that the program is “a gateway to kindness.”

Take action: Visit the Neighborhood Bridges website, pick the community you’d like to help, log in to be a member and get notifications via email or social media. Monetary donations are also accepted to help supplement food needs for Hoover Helps. neighborhoodbridges.org HUEYTOWN COMMUNITY HELPERS What happens when you get caring and determined people together in a church small group talking? If you are in the room with Ginger Parsons, community-church liaison for Hueytown Community Helpers, then lives are going to be changed. This neighborhood group that started with only 13 church partners in 2018 has grown quickly and now provides 177 school age kids food every Friday during the school year to combat weekend hunger though their “Blessings in a Bag” program. Parson says, “In addition to having the food in the bag, it’s the consistency of it that matters—it’s something they can depend on.” Every six weeks, their volunteers pack 1,200 bags of food, provided by area church volunteers, which will be discreetly delivered to Hueytown students who have been identified by counselors.

But food is not all they provide: Parsons and her team of church and community helpers and

Take action: The best way to help is to come pack food with the volunteers. With about 100 people on board, it takes about 30 minutes to pack food, and kids are encouraged to help, too. They also need food (see the website for a list of items they accept) and monetary donations for purchasing food. hueytowncommunityhelpers.com VINEYARD FAMILY SERVICES When Ward Williams founded Vineyard Family Services, he had a feeling that there were a great number of people in his community with needs who might never walk into the doors of a church. With Vineyard Family Services, he and his staff are able to reach people where they are.

The nonprofit, whose mission is to promote responsible fatherhood, stable coparenting and help families in crisis, also began a Backpack Buddies program in 2009. What started with two schools with 40 kids now serves 1,000 kids a week. Thirteen of the 34 schools are paired with church donors to meet the needs of food insecure kids in Shelby County, where there are 10,000 children on free or reduced lunch.

Backpack Buddies ensures that each weekend bag packed is delivered to the 34 participating Shelby County middle and elementary schools.

They also make certain the bags contain at least 2,200 calories of kid-friendly food that is shelf stable. While benefits to children include better academic achievement (98% of the kids in Backpack Buddies continue to advance to the next grade in school), the real impact is the conversation that gets started. “Being in the program allows a child to have a one-on-one relationship with a counselor, which we have found to be a big benefit,” Williams says. When counselors and teachers understand more about a child’s home circumstances, it’s easier to spot potential issues and provide other means of support.

Take action: Come to a packing party or arrange an opportunity for Vineyard Family Services to speak to your church group about supporting the mission. Monetary and food donations also accepted. For guidelines on food items, see the website. vfsdads.com Shop local and support our advertisers! 27

FAITH, HOPE, LOVE …

and horses

The Red Barn is treating kids with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities using equine therapy

BY JEANA DURST Imagine watching your son struggle with normal bodily movements and stiff muscles that come with cerebral palsy. How must this child learn to cope while navigating these difficulties? What about the young girl who was a victim of assault and now carries harrowing invisible scars? What kinds of special needs does she have?

The Red Barn, founded in 2012 by Joy O’Neal, is treating these kids through an innovative program that combines equine assisted therapy, education about horses, the love of riding and a supportive community at their picturesque 33-acre barn setting in Leeds. Therapists and staff here treat a range of disabilities and challenges, such as autism, cerebral palsy, orthopedic pathologies, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, depression, RAD (reactive attachment disorder), and this is only a partial list. Though the needs are broad, the one common denominator is the horse—it’s through the work with them that kids gain a sense of belonging and gain a safe place to grow and learn. “Lots of different pieces, but they all fit in the same puzzle,” O’Neal says.

There is a symbiotic relationship between the animals and the children. While the children focus on the joy of riding, that love is then returned by the animal. “When they are focused on the horses, it’s like those little therapeutic moments really open up,” O’Neal says.

As I toured the campus with O’Neal, she explained how they have grown: What started with two horses and three students has grown to 18 horses and 100 students a week (while the focus is primarily children, they do serve a few adults.)

On our walk, we pass demonstration stalls inside the barn that educate and simulate riding

HOW TO HELP

Red Barn offers lessons, camps, and customized programs. Donations go toward scholarships for children from low-income families. Visit theredbarn.org for more information.

experiences with activities like “Harry the Home Horse,” which helps kids with balance issues.

There’s a tack room where children learn about putting together bridles and different kinds of stirrups. On the grounds are also riding trails equipped with therapeutic activities, a pond, a host of petting-zoo-variety animals, a grief garden, picnic areas, outdoor arenas, indoor arenas, a pavilion for camp education, and, yes, a red barn.

It’s when we stop at the small red barn that O’Neal describes why she started the organization.

Her family friend, Ms. Cowart’s daughter was killed in a car accident in the 1960s.

“All of her daughter’s friends kept coming to the house to visit because they wanted to work with her horses,” O’Neal explains. As Ms. Cowart struggled with the anger of grief, she transformed her pain into something beautiful, teaching her new extended family of “daughters” about horses and riding. O’Neal visited Ms. Cowart’s barn herself, and the power of this healing experience stuck with her.

As we talked, I couldn’t help but think about how O’Neal was carrying on this legacy. And not just for the children she serves. That day, I met an expert farrier and a host of dedicated team members and volunteers who do the strenuous work of running a horse ranch—many of them former interns who O’Neal has mentored and watched grow up. The Red Barn is a true community. By the time I left, I was sure that faith, hope and love weren’t just words in their slogan; they were values alive and in action at The Red Barn.

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KIDS WHO SHINE

ETHAN HILL, 9

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?”

Martin Luther King, Jr.

S

ome kids save up their Christmas money to purchase ways to level up on their video games or go shopping for the latest fads. Not Ethan Hill.

At the age of 6, he took notice of a group of homeless people gathered under a downtown bridge as he rode with his mom to Phillips Academy every morning. In particular, he and his mother noticed one man that his mother remembered spotting living under this bridge when she went to school, 28 years ago. Many people would have just kept on driving past them without another thought.

But Hill decided to take action—he researched what kind of supplies are most useful to the homeless population and then used his Christmas money to purchase survival buckets to deliver to the bridge community. Along the way, he struck up a friendship with the man whom he and his mom noticed. By the next year, he began to deliver sleeping bags as well.

As his efforts grew, so did his impact. By

WANT TO HELP? For more information, visit Ethan’s Facebook page: facebook.com/Bags4Blessings To donate: Cash App: $Ethansheart PayPal: ethansheartbham@gmail.com

Christmas of 2019, Hill organized a nationwide fundraiser that raised around $8,000 to create 200 care packages and to provide sleeping bags for 150.

On Dec. 22, he handed these out at Linn Park, inside neon green tote bags. Often on cold or wet nights, his parents drive him around at sunset, handing out remaining totes and sleeping bags to those they find living on the streets.

Currently, Hill, who has been selected by the Duke Tip Talent Search Group and plays on the Highland Park PGA Junior Golf Team, plans to continue to deliver more care and comfort around the holidays, making it his mission to connect personally with the individuals he serves.

To nominate a child for Kids Who Shine, email matthew@jbmcmedia.com.

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Mending kids’

HEARTS It’s what we do best.

Our team of more than 250 pediatric professionals is recognized for its excellence in providing world-class cardiac care in an environment best suited to the needs of our patients. From tiny babies to teens, we care for Gabby Bolden and every child like our own. l

26 board-certified cardiologists, intensivists, anesthesiologists and surgeons

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441 cardiac surgeries performed in 2019, including 8 heart transplants

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More than 725 cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology procedures performed in 2019

Learn how you can help.

Visit www.ChildrensAL.org/heart.

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For Children’s Financial Assistance information, call 1.844.750.8950 or visit www.childrensal.org/financial-assistance

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ABA MA

Engaging the full spectrum of substance abuse in Shelby County

Submit an Anonymous Tip

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