Birmingham Parent Magazine October 2017

OCTOBER 2017

PICK THE

PERFECT PUMPKIN WHAT ARE SOME HALLOWEEN CANDY ALTERNATIVES? All About "FAIR TRADE" Should You Try DO-IT-YOURSELF BRACES?

PUMPKIN PATCHES & FALL EVENTS GUIDE PAGE 12

FREE

2017 FALL SEASON

September 29 - October 29 For INFO on HOURS and EVENTS

www.4dfamilyfarm.com

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N L AL MER Slide R O NST ubing R A B Ft T 0 5 2 Our

Located in Cullman...Just a Short Country Drive!

7182 County Road 703 Cullman, AL 35055

November 10, 2017 – January 1, 2018 • NEW- ICE! featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas in 2 million pounds of colorful, hand-carved ice sculptures and slides • NEW- Cirque Dreams Holidaze Stage Spectacular with 20+ of the World’s Best Acts • NEW- Breakfast with Charlie Brown™ & Friends

• NEW- Diamond Rio Holidays & Hits Dinner Show • More than 3 million lights and 9 acres of stunning décor • Build-A-Bear Workshop® & Scavenger Hunt • Gingerbread Decorating Corner • Carriage rides, snow tubing, ice skating & more!

Tickets and Packages on Sale Now!

ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com

NASHVILLE, TN (888) 677-9872

PEPSI, PEPSI-COLA and the Pepsi Globe are registered trademarks of PepsiCo, Inc. FUJIFILM and INSTAX are trademarks of FUJIFILM Corporation and its affiliates. © 2017 FUJIFILM North America Corporation. All rights reserved. Peanuts © 2017 Peanuts Worldwide LLC. © Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved.

PRESENTED BY

ICE! PRESENTED BY

ed note HAPPY FALL! It’s finally here – fall!

For those who love all things fall, this is your time. For those who love all things “pumpkin,” those pumpkin-flavored items are everywhere now! nd of course, the opening of all those great pumpkin patches for families is here as well.

Don’t miss our map of great pumpkin patches and fall festivals on page 12. And be sure to check out extra editorial on our website at www.birminghamparent.com, where we’ve profiled a number of these great locations, as well.

This month also features Halloween and fall festivals where lots of candy is handed out. But how much is too much? IS there an alternative? Check out our story on page 16 for advice from local pediatric dentists on this topic.

And it’s also Orthodontic Health Month.

I’ve been seeing ads for “do it yourself braces,” and I’ve wondered about that. You probably have, too, so we asked area orthodontists to weigh in on this subject as well, and you’ll find all their answers on page 20.

My kids are grown now, and I miss the trunk-or-treat events, trick-or-treating Halloween night, and the “choosing of the costumes” from year to year. I hope I’ll see a few trick or treaters at my door on Oct. 31. Enjoy the season!

Carol Muse Evans Publisher/editor carol@birminghamparent.com

ABOUT THE EDITORS: Carol Muse Evans is the publisher/editor/owner of Birmingham Parent magazine, a publication she and her husband David began in 2004. The Birmingham, Alabama-based parenting publication attracts more than 60,000 readers monthly in a four-county area and receives 10,000 hits per month on its website. The magazine has a 20,000+ print circulation, plus several thousand in readership of the digital edition online. It is the only independently audited free publication in our area. Evans is an award-winning writer and editor who has also has written for several other publications as a freelance writer since the late 80s. She is a graduate of Auburn University in journalism and is a graduate of Scottsboro High School. She is married with two grown children and lives in Alabaster. She is a member of the National Federation of Press Women, Alabama Media Professionals and Southeastern Advertisers and Publishers Association (SAPA). Evans also serves on the board of directors of Childcare Resources.

Lori Chandler Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent, where she is responsible for the calendar and editorial editing. She also is a freelancer for Business Alabama magazine and has written/edited for several other publications. This award-winning writer and editor is a graduate of the University of Alabama in news/editorial and Hueytown High School. She is married with two children.

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P.O. Box 326 (add 800 Hwy. 52 E. for pkg) Helena, AL 35080 205-987-7700 205-987-7600 FAX www.birminghamparent.com

editorial PUBLISHERS David & Carol Evans EDITOR Carol Muse Evans ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lori Chandler Pruitt OFFICE ASSISTANTS Bethany Adams Hunley, Kate Hankins CALENDAR Lori Chandler Pruitt E-BLASTS Lacey Updegraff CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Vivian Friedman, Charles Ghigna, Stephanie Rodda, Paige Townley, Christina Katz, Dr. Corey Hartman, Elena Epstein

sales MARKETING CONSULTANTS Kayla Fricks, Brittani Ellison, Whitney Hamm, Amy Phillips— special events WEBMASTER Digital Doo-Wop

art & production ART DIRECTOR Hilary Moreno DISTRIBUTION T&P Deliveries LEGAL COUNSEL Balch & Bingham LLP

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN200694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent. com. Birmingham Parent is © 2017 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2017 by Evans Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial submissions are welcome. For back issues, please send a self-addressed 10” x 13” envelope with $4 for postage and handling.

* FREE ADMISSION

THE GREAT

PUMPKIN PATCH SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 31, 2017

Monday—Thursday: 8am to 4pm Friday & Saturday: 8am to 6pm | Sunday: 1pm to 6pm Hayride to the Pumpkin Patch Inflatables Petting Zoo Pony Rides Extreme Bungee

Hay Pyramid for the Kids Country Store Live Entertainment Arts & Crafts Delicious Food

GREATPUMPKINPATCH.COM

288 County Hwy 45, Hayden, AL 35079 Call us during the day at: 205-616-6431, 205-647-2183, 205-903-7818, and nights 205-616-6431 or email us for more info or reservations!! *You pay for each activity. Fun for the young at heart at affordable prices.

birminghamparent.com | 5

contents PICK THE PERFECT PUMPKIN

page 14

Get tips on how to pick the perfect pumpkin! For example, pumpkins do not continue to ripen after they are picked, so choose a pumpkin that is

14

uniformly orange and not at all green with a nice, thick stem.

our focus

our features

our regulars

ORTHODONTICS MONTH

CHECK IT OUT

EDITOR’S NOTE Happy Fall!...........................................4

What are some Halloween Candy Alternatives?........................16 Do-It-Yourself Teeth Straightening: A Dangerous Trend?......................20

PARENTING with Dr. Friedman...............................7

36 DESTINATION GUIDE: Gulf Shores Hosts 46th Annual National Shrimp Festival............... 34 Visit PCB for Pirates of the High Seas Fest This Month..........35 Dahlonega is Gold..........................36 FALL IS HERE: Pumpkin Patches & Fall Events Guide.........................12 Pick the Perfect Pumpkin.............. 14

20

OUR WORLD: What is Fair Trade?.........................30

Short Stuff........................................... 8 Shop Talk............................................. 9 School News.....................................10 A CLEAR VIEW Get Your Child's Vision Into Shape.........................................26 HEALTHY SKIN IS BEYOND BEAUTIFUL Grow a Great Skin Care Regimen............................................28 OCTOBER CALENDAR of Events............................................. 41 POETRY PARTY Donuts for Halloween!...................46

ON THE COVER: What will your child be for Halloween? Jackson, age 5, is going to be a Zoo Keeper. He tried out his skills in the Lorikeet exhibit at the BIRMINGHAM ZOO recently, as pictured here. Photo by Kim Brantley Photography, www.kimbrantleyphotography.com.

PAR E N TI N G

Parenting with Dr. Friedman My ex-wife and I had a bitter divorce. Now I feel that she turns my 5-year-old son against me. The real problem is that I find myself feeling angry about the divorce and its aftermath and I sometimes get angry at my son during the visits we have together.

He doesn’t ever call me on the phone between visits and sometimes he repeats things that I know come from my ex-wife such as making fun of the way that I talk that is different from her and her family. I can’t afford to take him on trips or do really expensive things that would make our time together special. I am afraid that I am harming my child with my anger.

You are probably not irreparably harming your child with an occasional irritated tone of voice but you might be harming your relationship with him. What you so very much want is a warm fuzzy relationship. What you are offering him is a sometimes-angry dad.

Young children soak up nurturance. Create a positive relationship by giving this to him.

Feed him his favorite foods or tuck him in bed at night with a story. Hug him and tell him how proud you are of his accomplishments. Hug him for no reason and say, “I love you.”

While you do not have to go to Disneyland or spoil a child with expensive gifts, you do want to make his “daddy time” emotionally special. By being a warm and interesting parent, he will feel close to you and will treasure the time you spend together. Mow the lawn together, go to the grocery store, or take a hike in the park. It’s the one-on-one time that he craves.

Follow your child’s interests or introduce him to something that you enjoy. Don’t be hurt if he doesn’t like what you like but

simply try something else until you discover a mutual interest. Remember that this is about him, not you. If he fears go-carts, don’t make him ride one.

Express your anger to other adults, especially those who can be empathic without fueling your fire.

Instead of spending the time you have with your son reviewing your frustration with the situation, focus on getting to know him. Hold him on your lap and read a book or listen intently to what he has to say about his life. Don’t spin in a loop about what a bad deal you got.

You will be happier if you can see the glass as half-full (It’s so much fun to be with my son) than as half-empty (I don’t get enough time with him). You might not be able to change the reality but you can always change how you feel about it. When your attitude is better, your son won’t spend his time with you fearing dad’s anger.

When your son says hurtful things, remember that he is a child. He is a product of his environment and he repeats what he has

heard. It’s not his fault. Additionally, children are born self-centered. Empathy and kindness come from the process of maturation as well as from lessons directly taught.

Instead of demanding respect in a booming voice, teach him the correct way to treat others.

When he laughs at something you say, tell him that that hurts your feelings. Ask him how he might feel if someone made fun of him. Model words for him to say that would be kinder.

Vivian K. Friedman Ph. D. is a child and family psychologist at UAB, Department of Psychiatry.

Send questions for response in this column to Viviankf@gmail.com. No personal replies are sent.

Open House for Future Students NOVEMBER 4TH, 2017 9 AM, 10 AM, OR 11 AM

Best Publi c Scho ol

Learn about ASFA, its specialty instruction in Creative Writing, Dance, Math/Science, Music, Theatre Arts and Visual Arts and how to apply. ASFA offers public, tuition-free education for passionate students entering grades 7-11.

No appointment necessary. Questions? Jaronda Little, jlittle@asfa.k12.al.us Celebrating 50 years of building better futures.

ALABAMA SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd. Birmingham, AL 35203

205.252.9241 www.asfaschool.org

birminghamparent.com | 7

S H O RT STU FF Pediatricians Leading the Way as Antibiotic Prescription Rates Decline Antibiotic prescription fill rates are declining in Alabama and nationally, and pediatricians are leading the way.

Appropriate prescribing of antibiotics is critically important because the overuse or misuse of antibiotics can render the drug ineffective over time and allow diseases to build resistance against antibiotic treatments.

According to a new study by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA), Alabama ranks second among states in the rate of antibiotic prescription fill rates among Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama commercially insured members; however, Alabama’s fill rates have declined eight percent over the last seven years.

Prescription fill rates for broad-spectrum antibiotics, which treat a wide range of bacteria and are the antibiotics most likely to contribute to the creation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, have declined five percent in Alabama.

Antibiotics prescriptions filled for children have dropped 14 percent overall in Alabama since 2010, and in Birmingham, there is a 15 percent decrease.

JDRF Plans Walks, Chooses Ambassador The JDRF Birmingham One Walk is changing months and locations this year, and announces its 2017 Walk Ambassador, Cameron Crouse.

“Cameron and his family are truly committed to finding a cure, from championing all the way to DC to advocate for a cure to creating a unique and successful fundraising event “Wine for the Walk” to making Cameron’s Crew one of the biggest JDRF walk teams,” says Tracy Bennett Smith, Alabama Chapter’s executive director. “Cameron even started a fundraiser at his school “Put a Cap on Diabetes” which we have now implemented in schools all over Alabama – we are grateful to have this family be a part of our family.”

Cameron and his family have been involved with JDRF since Cameron was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of two. Cameron is currently a senior at Northridge High School in Tuscaloosa where he is on the football, baseball and All-Academic team. He is a member of the Beta Club, Key Club, Spanish Club, National Honor Society as well as the math, Spanish and science honor societies. He also is active in the Episcopal Youth Church and Young Life, and is a Northridge Ambassador.

Cameron’s Crew has raised over $100,000 for T1D research. His mom Michelle is the government relations chair for the Southeast and his dad Hans serves on the Alabama Chapter board of directors.

The Birmingham Walk will be on November 5 at Railroad Park. For more information on the walk or to register your team contact Jennifer Bentley, Jbentley@ jdrf.org or visit walk.jdrf.org/Birmingham.

Photo courtesy of JDRF

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THE TUTORING CENTER, HOOVER, AL • (205) 987-9577 2804 John Hawkins Pkwy St. 100, Hoover, AL 35244 8 | birminghamparent | october 2017

OCTOBER 5-8

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IT’S PLAY TIME!

We’re always on the lookout for great new toys, games and books.

This month, we’ve rounded up a couple of cute companions, a couple of engaging games and a fabulous personalized book.

DEFEND GOTHAM If your kids loved the movie, they’ll love the LEGO Dimensions, The LEGO Batman Movie Story Pack ($49.99, www.lego.com; ages 7+), featuring Batgirl and Robin. Players team up to fight the Joker and his group of villains.

MEET THE NEW KIDS Gabriela McBride, the 2017 American Girl of the Year, is a quiet and creative poet who wants to give back to her community and comes with a paperback book. Another exciting new addition is Logan Everett, American Girl’s first boy character. He’s a drummer. ($115.00 each, www.americangirl. com; Ages 8+)

Did you know you can sponsor a baby's diaper need for as low as $10/month?

Visit bundlesdiaperbank.org and signup for a recurring monthly donation to BLESS A LOCAL FAMILY Businesses, local organizations & individuals all welcome!

205-607-2112 www.bundlesdiaperbank.org info@bundlesdiaperbank.org

ENJOY THE SQUISH Squishmallows ($2.99-$19.99, www.squishmallows.com; ages 3+) make great couch pals, pillows, bedtime buddies and travel companions.

Choose a penguin, owl, cat, fox, frog or hedgehog.

PLAY IT SMART Beyond Tablet ($199, additional games available starting at $19.99; www.beyondscreen.com; ages 3+) is a smart tablet with a twist. It has no screen, so all the games are played with maps, cards, blocks, and figurines. But Beyond Tablet senses the objects and responds with LED lights and verbal guidance and encouragement.

BE THE HERO Bestselling author Kelly DiPucchio’s new book stars the greatest hero of all time – your child.

Called “A Monster Mess!” the book ($29.99, www.ReadYourStory.com; ages 3-7) features your child’s name and face throughout. You can add a personal dedication and two additional family photos. birminghamparent.com | 9

SC H O OL NE W S N.E. Miles Jewish Day School Take STEAM Approach to Recent Eclipse Throughout the week leading up to the eclipse, N.E. Miles Jewish Day School students were busy animating, reading, writing, and engineering as they prepared!

This approach was a cross-curricular STEAM approach.

STEAM uses science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics as access points for student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking. STEAM involves writing and reading across the curriculum, exploration and inquiry, collaboration, and technology.

Third and fourth graders learned about mythology and wrote their own creative myths about natural phenomena. The fifth graders worked together in the school’s MakerSpace to create and design their own props for their presentations teaching each other about the types of eclipses, and the seventh and eighth graders animated their own videos to teach their class what they had learned.

Finally, right before students viewed the eclipse in their NASA approved glasses (and compared the different phases of the eclipse), they learned about Rosh Chodesh (the beginning of the Jewish month) and explored the connections between the eclipse and the Jewish lunar calendar using Oreos to look at the phases of the moon. After the eclipse, students wrote their own poetry to reflect on this experience.

Photo Courtesy N.E. Miles Jewish Day School

Holland of ASFA Attends MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute

Photo courtesy of ASFA

Gov. Kay Ivey Visits ASFA as it Celebrates 50 Years Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey visited the ASFA campus recently as part of her Listen, Learn, Help and Lead tour. She met with students and staff and watched computer science, dance and music demonstrations.

The dance department performed a piece choreographed by artist-in-residence Germaul Barnes, 10th grade pianist J.T. Morris performed March Wind by Edward McDowell and computer science teacher Carol Yarbrough, who was just appointed to Ivey’s Advisory Council for Computer Science Education, had her students speak to the governor and show her their work.

Creative writing student Emma Camp, who was elected governor of American Legion Auxiliary Girls State and met Ivey over the summer, accompanied the governor for her tour and gave a short presentation. Also joining the governor were Sen. Slade Blackwell, Sen. Jabo Waggoner, Rep. Danny Garrett, Rep. Patricia Todd, Rep. Rod Scott and Rep John Rogers.

“ASFA plays a vital role in education,” Ivey says. “The school is preparing its students to be the next generation of Alabama’s leaders, thinkers, entrepreneurs and creators.”

ASFA is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its founding in 1967.

10 | birminghamparent | october 2017

Joshua Holland, Alabama School of Fine Arts Math-Science senior, recently completed four weeks at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology designing autonomous race cars.

Holland was among only 98 students selected from schools around the nation to participate in the 2017 MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute (BWSI). The BWSI is a summer engineering program for talented rising high school seniors.

Students worked on hands-on projects, took online courses, and attended lectures presented by leading researchers from MIT, MIT Lincoln Laboratory, and the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The program is hosted by the MIT Lincoln Laboratory Beaver Works Center, a research center in Cambridge jointly chartered by MIT Lincoln Laboratory and the MIT School of Engineering.

New Website Offers Support to Create Healthy Schools Action for Healthy Kids and the National PTA have launched a new website, ParentsforHealthyKids.org, to help support parents nationwide in their efforts to make healthy changes in their children’s schools, from improving recess to school lunches to PE to healthy fundraising and much more.

The website includes quizzes, information on school wellness and how to achieve it, a community forum, live training and workshops and more. Additionally, grants will be provided for school-based health initiatives that include a family engagement component and/or led by a parent group. The grocery chain ALDI is financing those grants for the 2017-2018 school year.

ASMS

The Alabama School of Mathematics and Science Come find out if ASMS is right for you by attending a

– and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Start

campus for ASMS Days on November 11 or December 2.

9th or 10th graders can apply. Many people ask, “Do I have to

statewide info meeting (see dates below) and visiting our Register for the meeting you plan to attend as well as for ASMS Day at www.asms.net.

ASMS is our state’s only fully public, residential high school for sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in math, science, and the humanities. Applying to ASMS is FREE

ANNISTON

Thursday, Oct. 12, 6:00 PM Gadsden State Ayers Campus Learning Resource Center Auditorium 1801 Coleman Rd

AUBURN

Thursday, Oct. 19, 5:30 PM (Central) Auburn University Ross Hall Auditorium, RM 136

BIRMINGHAM

Wednesday, Oct. 25, 6:00 PM University of Alabama at Birmingham Heritage Hall, RM 104 1401 University Blvd

ENTERPRISE

Thursday, Oct. 26, 6:00 PM Dauphin Jr. High School Library 425 Dauphin Street

HUNTSVILLE

Thursday, Oct. 26, 6:00 PM University of Alabama in Huntsville Louis Salmon Library, RM 111 301 Sparkman Drive NW

your application today at www.asms.net. Current Alabama be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. All ASMS students go to college and most receive merit-based scholarships.

Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.3250.

LIVINGSTON

Monday, Oct. 16, 6:00 PM University of West Alabama Student Union Small Conference Room Student Union Drive

MONTGOMERY

Tuesday, Oct. 17, 7:00 PM Montgomery Main Library 245 High Street

SELMA

MOBILE OPTION 1

Monday, Oct. 16, 6:00 PM Wallace Community College Hank Sanders Tech. Bldg., Conf. Room 3000 Earl Goodwin Pkwy

MOBILE OPTION 2

Thursday, Oct. 5, 6:00 PM Coastal Alabama Community College Library Building 3000, RM 107 30755 Hwy 43 South

MONROEVILLE

Thursday, Oct. 5, 6:00 PM Troy University Trojan Center Room 212 231 Adams Center

Thursday, Oct. 5, 6:00 PM ASMS Campus Media Center 1255 Dauphin Street Thursday, Oct. 26, 6:00 PM ASMS Campus Media Center 1255 Dauphin Street Thursday, Oct. 19, 6:00 PM Coastal Alabama Community College Library, RM 101 2800 South Alabama Avex

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science 1255 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36604 251.441.2100 - www.asms.net admissions@asms.net

THOMASVILLE

TROY

TUSCALOOSA

Tuesday, Oct. 24, 6:00 PM University of Alabama South Engineering Research Center RM 1059

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4 6 GEORGIA

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PUMPKIN PATCHES & FALL EVENTS GUIDE 1 4D FARM CORN MAZE & PUMPKIN PATCH Open Sept. 29-Oct. 29 7066 County Rd. 703, Cullman, AL 35055 256-775-2924 www.4dfamilyfarm.com ALL NEW Barnstormer - Our 250 ft.

Tubing Slide! Ride on our cow train, zoom down an 80 ft. slide or our 200 ft. zipline, pick a pumpkin, get lost in our corn maze, squeal at the pig races, jump on Johnny Jumper, see the Goats on the Barn and MUCH MORE! Admission $11.95 + tax, includes most activities. Seniors 65+ are $8.95 + tax. Under 2 free. Season Pass: $24.95+tax

2 BOO AT THE ZOO AT THE BIRMINGHAM ZOO October 15, 19-22, & 26-31, 5-9pm 2630 Cahaba Road Birmingham, AL 35223 www.birminghamzoo.com 205-879-0409 Make plans to head to the Birmingham Zoo for Boo at the Zoo, presented by Wells Fargo! Dress in your favorite family-friendly costume as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions. Ride the Spider Slide, jump on the Eerie Express Pirate train, see a Schaeffer Eye Center Wildlife Show, ride the ghost rollers, take a spin on the Scarousel, trick-or-treat throughout the Zoo and SO much more!

12 | birminghamparent | october 2017

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3 FAYE WHITTEMORE FARMS, INC. PUMPKIN PATCH & TRAIL RIDES

Open the Month of October!

(All 4 weekends) beginning Sat., Oct. 7th Saturdays: 10 am-5 pm Sundays: 1 pm-5 pm Forrester Road Jasper, Alabama 35504 Mobile: Ricky 205.522.4137 Email: rickywhittemore@yahoo.com ​w ww.fayewhittemorefarms.com​ Our Pumpkin Patch is the best fun family farm trip in Jasper! Activities include swings, pirate ship playground, petting zoo, hay maze, moonwalk, inflatable slide, obstacle course, fishing, & face painting.

Trail Rides available and pick your favorite pumpkin on our wagon rides!

4

THE GREAT PUMPKIN PATCH

Open Sept. 23-Oct. 31 Mon-Thurs. 8am to 4pm Fri. -Sat. 8am to 6pm Sunday 1pm to 6pm 288 County Hwy 45 Hayden, AL 35079 205-616-6431 greatpumpkinpatch.com FREE Admission! You pay for each activity or just enjoy sitting in the shade listening to music, watching kids play or tasting the wonderful food from the Red Barn Kitchen or famous Pie House.

5

PENTON FARMS

Open to the public Monday-Friday 1pm-5pm and Saturday 8am-5pm 3595 County Road 59 Verbena, Alabama 36091 October 1st-31st.

205-351-1480 for more information and group rates.

Bring the whole family to spend the day!

Wagon ride, corn maze, animal barn, corn pit, human hamster wheel, hay mountain, super slides and more. $10 per person 2 years old and older.

6 STONE MOUNTAIN PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Fri-Sun, September 29-October 29 Friday & Sunday: 10:30 AM-5 PM Saturday: 10:30 AM-7 PM with Lasershow at 8:30 PM on 9/30 and 8 PM on 10/7,10/14, and 10/21 (No Lasershow on Saturday October 28th) Don’t miss Stone Mountain Park’s Pumpkin Festival, open weekends in october.

Fall décor, family games, last chance to see dinosaur explore, inflatables, funtastic kids’ carnival, great picture opportunities and more. Save on tickets at stonemountainpark.com.

FAYE WHITTEMORE FARMS PUMPKIN PATCH IN JASPER, AL OPENING DAY SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7TH Open to the Public all

4 weekends in October

Saturdays 10a.m.–5 p.m. & Sundays 1 p.m.–5 p.m. $12.00 per person pirate ship playground • kiddie train • pett ing zoo hay maze • wagon rides to pumpkin patch • moonwalk swings • inflatable slide • obstacle course • fi shing face painting & concession stand FOR MORE INFO, CONTACT RICKY AT 205-522-4137 OR EMAIL RICKYWHITTEMORE@YAHOO.COM

PICK A PERFECT PUMPKIN!

FUN FAMILY farm trip!

40 cents per lb.

FORRESTER ROAD . JASPER, ALABAMA 35504

www.fayewhittemorefarms.com

Vulcan s e n u rT e t f A presented by

Oct 1st

Swear and Shake Farewell Angelina

Oct New Breed Brass Band 15th Heath Green & The Makeshifters Oct Aaron Lee Tasjan 29th Early James

Tickets and Details at: visitvulcan.com/events birminghamparent.com | 13

FA M I LY FU N

PICK THE

Perfect Pumpkin

Here are some great tips when picking a pumpkin:

• Choose a carving pumpkin that feels firm and heavy for its size when you pick it up.

• Avoid harvesting pumpkins after a frost. Find out when the first frost of the season is predicted in your area and get your pumpkins at least two weeks prior.

• Pumpkins do not continue to ripen after they are picked, so choose a pumpkin that is uniformly orange and not at all green with a nice, thick stem.

• Select pumpkins according to your needs. Is your pumpkin for cooking or for decoration?

Cooking pumpkins are smaller and more solid than carving pumpkins.

• A green stem indicates a freshly harvested pumpkin. Stems can be fragile, so do not lift or carry pumpkins by them.

• Grab a wheelbarrow or a wagon if your farm provides them. This is no time for pride, which will evaporate once you get halfway out into the field.

• If you have a wagon or wheelbarrow, pick any size pumpkins you like. But if each child will carry their pumpkin, help them select a manageable size.

14 | birminghamparent | october 2017

• Avoid any pumpkins with soft spots, brown spots, holes, cracks, splits, wrinkles or mold.

The pumpkin shell should be uniformly hard to the touch all the way around the pumpkin. Be sure to check the bottom and the side that was on the ground.

• Round or oval-shaped pumpkins are easier to carve and are full of seeds you can scoop out and roast.

By Christina Katz

• Put your pumpkins on a flat surface before you bring them home to make sure they will sit pretty without rolling over. Haul in a few extra pumpkins from the patch just in case you have some rejects.

• Newer varieties of decorative pumpkins have a range of colors, shapes and warts. When unsure about quality, have a salesperson inspect your selections before you pay.

• Carved pumpkins last about two weeks.

Once pumpkins start to decay, chop them up and add them to your compost.

• If you would like a volume of pumpkins to last until Thanksgiving, purchase less expensive pumpkins from your local grocery store right before Halloween, once they go on sale, and do not carve them.

Round or ovalshaped pumpkins are easier to carve and are full of seeds you can scoop out and roast.

Perfect Roasted Pumpkin Seeds As everyone is carving pumpkins, offer a large bowl or pot for pumpkin pulp. When the bowl is half full, loosen the seeds with your hands and fill pot to the three-quarters mark with water. The seeds will rise to the top. Squeeze them through your fingers to remove any clinging pulp as you transfer them to a colander to rinse again. Then spread them on paper towels and pat dry.

Set your oven for 325 degrees and transfer seeds to cookie sheets in single layers. Sprinkle each pan of seeds with a tablespoon of olive oil and a few shakes of salt. Turn seeds with spatula every eight minutes until crispy on the outside and golden on the inside. Estimated roasting time is 20-30 minutes but do not let seeds turn brown. Remove roasted seeds from oven, cool and enjoy. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two months.

Author, journalist and writing coach Christina Katz cannot get enough of trips to the farm. Hot apple cider, warm doughnuts and caramel apples are her favorite fall treats.

LAST CHANCE! DINOSAUR EXPLORE

Atlanta’s Favorite Place To Celebrate The Fall Season

SEPTEMBER 29 - OCTOBER 29 Friday - Sunday

• Spookley's Funtastic Kids' Carnival • Meet and Greet with Spookley the Square Pumpkin • AdventureTales Storytelling • Dance-A-Long Party Parade • Pie Eating Contest • NEW! Family Game Show • NEW! Interactive Train Ride

Visit stonemountainpark.com for a complete list of activities and attractions.

Stay connected. Stay informed.

Win cool stuff. www.birmimghamparent.com birminghamparent.com | 15

ORTHO D ONTI C S M O NTH

“It is so fulfilling to be shipping multitudes of candy, handwritten cards and photographs to our troops serving overseas,” —Dr. Angelica Rohner

WHAT ARE SOME

Halloween Candy Alternatives?

Too much Halloween candy isn’t a good idea for children – or adults! But Halloween comes only once a year, and much of the fun revolves around trick or treat. What’s a reasonable amount? How might parents avoid getting – and giving – too much candy altogether?

“Eating too much candy can cause cavities,” says Dr. Angelica R. Rohner of Angelica Rohner Pediatric Dentistry. “But, you can’t forgo all of the fun of trick or treating! Generally, we suggest that if you are going to eat candy, you should only consume chocolates or treats that melt and don’t stick to the teeth. Any of the hard or sticky candies are best to be avoided.”

Dr. Mike Anglin of Michael S. Anglin, D.D.S. P.C., explains, “We are realists and we know kids will be kids and are going to participate in Halloween. We suggest kids eat 16 | birminghamparent | october 2017

candy in moderation and avoid hard, sticky candy that can break teeth and fillings and even be a choking hazard. Chocolate is soft and melts away quickly instead of sticking to the teeth. Brushing and flossing is a must to combat tooth decay especially during Halloween!”

Dr. Lauten Johnson and Dr. Emily Rousso of Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry say the amount of time teeth are exposed to candy makes a big difference. “Try to limit the number of times per day your child eats candy,” they say. “Some families will allow their child to eat candy at mealtimes for the first week after Halloween; after that it’s time to move on and get the remaining candy out of the house.”

When kids get in from trick or treating, sort the loot and separate candy that can cause

By Lori Chandler Pruitt

dental problems. Make a game of it, Rohner says. “While adventuring through the stash, separate the chocolates, sticky candies and any unsafe partially opened items,” she says.

“It is up to the parent to decide what they want the child to have, but we suggest limiting what is kept to half of what they get. Then, they can donate the rest!”

After the sorting, Rohner suggests parents try to limit Halloween candy consumption to one or two small pieces as dessert after a meal at most once a day, then brush and floss afterwards.

Parents also can help cut down on the candy avalanche by giving out other things to trick or treaters. According to parents.com and several other websites, there are many online companies and retail stores that sell inexpensive Halloween items to give out.

HALLOWEEN Those include temporary tattoos, fun accessories such as pirate eye patches, glow-in-the-dark bracelets, arts and crafts items like stickers, small containers of modeling clay, stencils, small boxes of crayons, small notebooks and coloring books, fun erasers, pocket toys and games, pencils, sidewalk chalk, finger puppets and more.

Healthy snacks to give out include small boxes of raisins, sugarless chewing gum, baked crackers, pretzels and cereal bars.

Anglin also recommends gift cards, toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss as well.

“Everyone wants to be that great house on the block all kids love to visit – try to make your own distinction as the house with a different fun giveaway!” Johnson and Rousso say. “Think of little toys you would see in a party favor bag and go with those: bubbles, stickers, etc. (but avoid little pieces that kids could swallow).”

Another great way to cut down on the candy your child eats is to donate it.

Check with your dentist’s office about candy buy-back programs right after Halloween where kids can bring extra candy to the dentists’ office, get some cash (and maybe a surprise!) and feel great that the candy will be donated to troops overseas.

“It is so fulfilling to be shipping multitudes of candy, handwritten cards and photographs to our troops serving overseas,” Rohner says. "It can be a good way to teach your child to share and give to others.”

Lori Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.

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ORTHO D ONTI C S M O NTH

Do-It-Yourself Teeth Straightening: A DANGEROUS TREND?

Companies sell orthodontic devices like braces and retainers online that ship right to your home with no dental visits required. The Internet is flooded with videos – many from teens and young adults – who claim they straightened their teeth with rubber bands.

Such “do-it-yourself” products and methods are popular because they seem quicker and supposedly save money. But is it a good idea?

“They advertise a supposedly less expensive product, but that may not be true for any specific problem – one size does not fit all,” says Dr. Carl Walker of Carl Walker Orthodontics. “If it is a complicated case, the adage often applies: buyer beware. You get what you pay for.”

The American Association of Orthodontists, alarmed by the trend, warns against it. The AAO states the practice can increase the risk of infection and can cause serious damage to the teeth and gums, including cutting off blood supply to teeth and ultimately tooth loss.

“This has been popularized in social media,” says Dr. Olga Sanchez-Hernandez DMD, MS, MS of McCalla Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry. “The popularity of these methods has been on the rise because people perceive orthodontic services to be inconvenient and costly.”

20 | birminghamparent | october 2017

The DIY videos that tout success are by far the exception, not the rule, orthodontists say. There is much more to orthodontia than putting a set of braces on the teeth.

By Lori Chandler Pruitt

The DIY videos that tout success are by far the exception, not the rule, orthodontists say. There is much more to orthodontia than putting a set of braces on the teeth.

“It can be dangerous for an untrained person to try and straighten teeth without having any knowledge of how they move and how it affects the bones and soft tissue,” says Dr. Stephanie Whitehead of Whitehead Orthodontics. “I would tell patients to consult an orthodontist about their particular problem and never attempt to do any tooth movement on their own.”

Sanchez-Hernandez agrees. “People that do not have orthodontic training might not be able to recognize some of these complications until it is too late,” she says. “Most of these effects are not reversible and patients can end up incurring thousands of dollars in expenses and visits to multiple specialists in order to correct the problems created.”

Kelly M. Page, DMD, MS of Chelsea Orthodontics says ordering braces online means you have no idea of the credentials of the person planning the treatment. “Does he or she have experience fixing a bite?

Unless this person has formal training, he or she will not know how to get the results you need,” she explains. The lack of face-to-face contact

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during treatment also means no one is supervising you to make adjustments, and no one is held accountable, she says.

“Simply mailing me a set of trays does not give me an idea of whether I will achieve what I believe I will achieve,” adds David M. Sarver, DMD, MS of Sarver Orthodontics.

Orthodontists are specially trained for orthodontic care. They are dentists (earning a doctor of dental surgery or doctor of dental medicine) who then undergo two to three years of additional residency training to specialize in the field of orthodontics. They are university trained and receive a master’s degree in orthodontics so that when they graduate they limit their practice to orthodontics.

The orthodontist’s training includes the study of the growth and development of the face and oral structures as well as the alignment of the teeth. They are trained to treat patients of all ages and severities, including surgical cases and TMJ. The movement of the teeth is affected by the health of the surrounding bone and soft tissue. It can affect the smile outcome, the lip support, the profile and the long-term stability of teeth.

Brandon Boggan, DMD, MS of OrthoSouth, says the science and mechanics used to straighten teeth will vary from patient to patient depending on many different factors. Each person’s case is very different with the need for individualized planning for the best orthodontic treatment outcome.

While the (DIY) cost might be less initially, it could be very costly in the end if damage is done and dental work is needed to fix the problem. “The health of the teeth is also affected by the health of the body,” Whitehead explains. “Immune deficiencies, diabetes, heart problems, periodontal disease decay and even prior trauma can affect how the teeth respond to a force exerted on them.”

Boggan agrees. “I love the quote, ‘Price is what you pay. Value is what you get’ from Warren Buffett,” he says. “That is what we try to offer is a good value to our patients. There are many things to consider (X-rays looking at the skeletal and dental health, medical history, and a thorough dental exam, to name a few) when seeking orthodontic treatment that you just can’t get through the mail. There are individualized factors that make many of these cases too risky to attempt without professional help.”

Technology has made it faster, less expensive, less painful and more esthetic to have orthodontic treatment, Walker says. Most orthodontists offer free evaluations with no obligation, competitive pricing and varied payment plans. They also include follow-up visits for a period of time once the braces are off.

22 | birminghamparent | october 2017

More than likely, many patients who employ DIY methods will end up visiting a local orthodontist to fix the serious problems caused by it, therefore spending more money.

In fact, the AAO reports that 13 percent of its members are seeing patients who have tried DIY methods and now have other alignment or other dental problems.

“Most orthodontists do offer a variety of payment plans and work with patients to fit treatment into their budgets,” Sarver says. “For people in financial need there are programs such as Smiles Change Lives, Smile for a Lifetime Foundation and donated orthodontic services that provide pro bono care to those who qualify for those services.”

More than likely, many patients who employ DIY methods will end up visiting a local orthodontist to fix the serious problems caused by it, therefore spending more money. In fact, the AAO reports that 13 percent of its members are seeing patients who have tried DIY methods and now have other alignment or other dental problems.

“Just as you can’t simply watch a YouTube video and be a surgeon, trying to be an orthodontist without proper training can be both ineffective and dangerous,” says Dr. John R. Phillips III of PT Orthodontics. “In this time, orthodontics has never been more affordable and it is just unwise to try to take this important role of your teeth and smile into your own hands. Trust the professionals.”

Sarver points out that your teeth “are a part of your body, and (DIY) treatment may result in damage which is not reversible even with professional help. I would certainly want to know who is taking care of me, and what their background is.”

Lori Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.

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At our office, you’re more than a number – you’re part of our dental family. We create personalized, individual treatment plans for each patient so that we deliver only the best results. We offer flexible payment solutions to help keep the cost of braces within your budget! We offer a full range of braces to meet your

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30 | birminghamparent | october 2017

By Stephanie Rodda

A few months ago, I met Amy Hawk, a local mom with young children who is a teacher by profession, at a craft fair. Her table displayed Trades of Hope products. I was unfamiliar with the company she represented, but was intrigued by one of the bracelets that she described as being made of recycled strips of cereal boxes and clay beads. The clay used for the beads, she explained, was the same clay that was used to make dirt cookies for hungry children in Haiti. I bought the bracelet and began to research the dirt cookies she referred to.

What I discovered was heart-breaking.

Mothers preparing dirt cookies to feed their hungry children. I watched documentaries and programs that filmed this practice.

Extreme poverty had led to these desperate

measures. And this was just one example of why businesses like Trades of Hope who partner with fair trade groups and ministries are having a tremendous impact on women and their families across the world. They are not non-profit or a charity and yet they are making a difference. So can we.

Often when we hear about fair trade we think of the farmers and the workers they hire in other countries. We may even think of cocoa, as that was a big news item a few years ago. But fair trade also includes individual artisans that craft their goods to earn money and avoid alternatives like work houses or even begging on the side of the road to survive.

There are many companies who aspire to support these artisans and their efforts to support themselves. Trades of Hope is one of

Author, Stephanie Rodda, proudly wears her first bracelet made from the clay used for dirt cookies in Haiti.

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“The principle of fair trade enables people around the world to receive a livable income that covers their basic needs, which include food, shelter, education, and health care for their families.”

Trades of Hope

them and according to their website, approximately 40 percent of the world’s population exists on $2 a day. They explained why they are dedicated to fair trade practices. “The principle of fair trade enables people around the world to receive a livable income that covers their basic needs, which include food, shelter, education, and health care for their families.”

As for me, I decided to choose birthday gifts, Christmas presents and even items for the home from some of the creative and talented artisans that Trades of Hope and companies like them support. When my son’s fiancé had a birthday, I ordered the Cora bracelet made by empowered artisans in India. When my girls wanted new journals, I purchased the Kancu Leaf Journal set that is filled with handmade paper and has real leaves from Nepal on the covers. I was proud to tell my daughters about the women who are working hard to become self-reliant as they craft such items.

Every time I purchase something beautiful that was made by a mom, who just like me, wants to provide the best she

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Sometimes, we might feel a bit overwhelmed by the injustices of the world. This is one that the average person can help make right. Fair trade

Women in India are empowered as they develop their artisan skills and small business ventures.

purchases can become a regular part of your spending influence. Lives can be impacted. Our world can be made better. Now, that’s what I call a real bargain.

can for her family, I say a prayer to bless their efforts and determine not to forget that bargains aren’t always my best choice. Some ladies, like Amy Hawk, have joined the companies they represent as compassionate entrepreneurs. They not only participate in craft fairs like the one we met at, but also make it possible for individuals like you and me to host parties online.

Not only does this increase sales and improve the futures of the artisans, it increases awareness of why fair trade is worth taking note of.

Not all of the artisans are in other countries. There are some right here in our own. Victims of human trafficking and women in need of recovery here and abroad, also craft products that are available for purchase. One of the most noteworthy is the handcrafted soap by women from the red light district who have made a ‘clean break’ from their previous lifestyle. They mark their products with their thumb print.

“We have over 13,000 artisans we support,” Hawk says.

When she recently attended the Trades of Hope conference in Memphis, she was able to meet some of them in person and hear their stories. One of the ladies, Katrina, was a part of Thistle Farms in Nashville. She made a powerful statement that Amy shared with me. “They loved me until I loved myself.”

If we open our eyes and notice opportunities to purchase fair trade goods, we may be surprised at just how easy it can be. Local retailers will carry goods that have the fair trade logo for coffee, chocolate and other items. Popular Christian artist, Lauren Daigle, has partnered with 3 Seams and displays their products at her concerts. Elegantees also works to provide hope to overcomers of sex trafficking with a positive source of income through the clothing industry. Right here in Birmingham is Sojourns, the first (but not only) wholly fair trade store in Alabama.

Sometimes, we might feel a bit overwhelmed by the injustices of the world. This is one that the average person can help make right. Fair trade purchases can become a regular part of your spending influence. Lives can be impacted. Our world can be made better. Now, that’s what I call a real bargain.

Stephanie Rodda is an author, freelance writer and adoptive mom of seven. She lives with her family in the Birmingham area. She blogs at stephanierodda.wordpress.com and has a devotional writings page on Facebook.

32 | birminghamparent | october 2017

Amy Hawk, Trades of Hope compassionate entrepreneur, is passionate about the impact of Fair Trade.

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birminghamparent.com | 33

D E ST I NAT I O N GUI DE The Shrimp Festival was named the

TOP FESTIVAL FOR THE STATE OF ALABAMA in 2016.

A SOUTHERN TRADITION:

Gulf Shores Hosts its 46th Annual National Shrimp Festival OCTOBER 12-15

By Paige Townley

Food, fun, and sun combine to create the perfect setting for the Annual National Shrimp Festival in Gulf Shores. Held every year in October, the event attracts anyone and everyone across the state of Alabama and well beyond its borders. “The thing about the Shrimp Festival is that it’s held at the perfect time of year when the weather is about as good as it can get,” says Ed Rodriguez, president of the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber. “October is a beautiful time here on the beach. It makes for the perfect atmosphere.”

That atmosphere includes hundreds of vendors selling everything from fine art to arts and crafts and all sorts of other retail items.

It also includes a menu ranging from classic seafood dishes to more unique treats and, of course, shrimp cooked practically any and every way imaginable. “We strive really hard to make sure that all three of the major aspects of the festival – food, entertainment, and art – offer something for everyone,” Rodriguez adds.

“Yes, it’s a shrimp festival, but it’s so much more.”

While today the festival is known as one of the largest events in the southeast, it originally started in 1971 as a way to attract more tourists to the beach after Labor Day. The very first festival was essentially a shrimp boil on 34 | birminghamparent | october 2017

the beach that lasted about five hours with just a few vendors and featured the first annual Seafood Cooking Contest, a sandcastle contest, a turkey shoot, and a Gulf sea life exhibit.

About 1,500 people attended that first festival, but since then, the festival has grown exponentially. “Over the years it has really taken on a new life,” says Rodriguez. “It kept getting bigger and bigger, and it’s a huge event now.”

Today, the Annual National Shrimp Festival attracts more than 250,000 people to the Gulf Shores public beach boardwalk, contributing more than $46 million of total economic impact to the local area. Yet, its focus on fun for the whole family is still the same.

More than 300 exhibitors are in attendance with a variety of wares, kids have the opportunity to show off their creativity in the Children’s Activity Village, two main stages are constantly hosting various musical acts performing everything from jazz to country and classic rock, and a 5K and 10K run/walk is held as well.

The event also continues to include the ever-popular traditional favorites as well: the Annual Seafood Cooking Contest, which is now known as “Best of the FEST,” and the Sand Sculpture Contest. The Shrimp Festival is starting a new tradition this year with the Little Miss Shrimp Festival Pageant, which is open

to young ladies from pre-K to sixth grade in Baldwin County.

The Shrimp Festival was named the Top Festival for the State of Alabama in 2016.

“We have more than 600 volunteers who work together to make sure this event is spectacular every year,” Rodriguez says. “So many from our community get involved and devote hours and hours to ensuring the success of the festival. It’s amazing how many people come together to make it happen, and it’s getting better and better each year.”

For more information, go to www.myshrimpfest.com.

Paige Townley is a Birmingham freelance writer.

VISIT PCB FOR

Pirates of the High Seas Fest This Month

By Carol Muse Evans October is the time to visit Panama City Beach if you have a little pirate or pirate lover in the family, as Columbus Day weekend, October 6 -8, the city hosts the seventh annual Pirate of the High Seas Fest Pier Park.

Swashbuckling adventures and fun await pirates of all ages with three parades, live music, a scavenger hunt and three nights of fireworks, pirate invasions and more. And of course, fall is a wonderful time to visit the beaches here.

“The Pirates of the High Seas Fest always draws an enthusiastic response from both the young and young at heart,” says Dan Rowe, president and CEO of Visit Panama City Beach. You’ll see kids and adults decked out in their finest pirate dress, all during the festival.

Visitors are invited to join in staged pirate battles, following the legend of Dominique Youx and his crew of loyal pirates who defended PCB from invaders in the early 1800s.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: n FRIDAY, OCT. 6 Festival Village & Little Pirate Fun Zone, Pier Park, 5 p.m.

Kids’ Parade, Pier Park, 5:30-6:15 p.m. Get your beads and other pirate treasure that is thrown during the parade!

Entertainment on Center Stage, Pier Park – 6:15-6:30 p.m., 6:30-7 p.m.

Fireworks 8:30 p.m. – Russell-Fields Pier across from Pier Park n SATURDAY, OCT. 7 Little Pirate Fun Zone – 12-8 p.m. at Dave & Buster’s parking area, Pier Park Live Music on Celebration Stage, 12-1:15 p.m., 1:30-2:30 p.m., 3:30-8:30 p.m.

Live Entertainment with Captain Mayhem at Celebration Stage 1:30-2:30 p.m.

PHOTO COURTESY PCB CVB

Pirate Invasion – 2:30-3 p.m. at Pier Park and Pier Stage Fireworks 8:30 p.m. – Russell-Fields Pier across from Pier Park n SUNDAY, OCT. 8 Lil’ Pirate Fun Zone, Main Stage – 12-2 p.m.

Victory Celebration, Grand Lagoon and Captain Anderson’s Marina – 12-7:15 p.m.

This includes a treasure hunt, magic shows, family and pet pirate parade, food and drink specials at area restaurants, live music, pirate ship flotilla and fireworks.

For more information, visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com,

the

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The only voice in travel that MATTERS! Catch The Travel Voice by Becky on Saturday’s in Shelby County on FM 99.9 APH Radio at 11 a.m. and anytime on iHeart Radio!

Great travel information, special deals, awesome guests, spectacular on location LIVE events and amazing giveaways!

For more information, visit thetravelvoicebybecky.com birminghamparent.com | 35

D E ST I NAT I O N GUI DE Photo courtesy of Dahlonega CVB

Be sure to visit the Consolidated Gold Mines. Your kids can pan for gold and gemstones and take home what they find!

Dahlonega is

GOLD

By Carol Muse Evans

If you’ve never visited Dahlonega (pronounced “Dah-lahn-e-ga”) in north Georgia, just an hour north of Atlanta at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, fall might be the time to go. A visit to Dahlonega is pure gold for the whole family.

This great family destination is the site of the first major U.S. Gold Rush. It’s also the heart of Georgia wine country. There’s plenty here to do and see for all ages, and charm abounds in this quaint town full of history and fun.

36 | birminghamparent | october 2017

Since the FIRST gold rush in the U.S. started here around 1828, before prospectors headed to California, you can still see several mines and even a museum here. There’s a great museum with a video about the Gold Rush in the center of town, at the old county courthouse. This is definitely worth the visit and explains what happened with gold here.

Be sure to visit the Consolidated Gold Mines. Your kids can pan for gold and gemstones here and take home what they find, and a knowledgeable tour guide will take you down in the actual mine, which now runs underneath the local Walmart. See the actual tracks where miners used to ship out the gold they found, and here the stories of another time. It’s a lot of fun, but it does involve a good bit of walking. Then the Crisson Gold Mine will give you a taste of a hard rock mine with a working century-old stamp mill. Again, you can pan for gold and gemstones here.

Pick up a money-saving Gold Fever Package with admission to the mines and the

Gold Museum at the Dahlonega-Lumpkin Visitors Center. It will give you maps, suggestions for restaurants and hotels here, too.

For mom and dad, you are in the heart of Georgia wine country in Dahlonega, with five vineyards and wineries. Just about everything downtown is about wine and winetasting opportunities. You can sample different local wines in just about any shop in town, and there’s even a “Wine Walk,” where you purchase a souvenir wine glass at the Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Visitors Center for $5 and get two wine tastings at each participating downtown tasting room. There are all sorts of opportunities at the individual vineyards and shops, so check out the local website if interested.

If you decide to visit Dahlonega in warm weather, the Chestatee River (http://www. chestateeriveradventures.com/) provides some fun with tubing and other water activities such as fishing, kayaking and canoeing. But one of my favorite things I saw was Amicalola State

WHERE TO STAY: Forrest Hills Mountain Resort & Conference Center http://forresthillsresort.com 706-864-6456 or 800-654-6313 While it is a short drive, it is worth it! Great for couples and families, it features restaurants, horseback riding, a spa, a pool, general store and more. (Watch for a story on Forrest Hills in an upcoming issue of Birmingham Parent.)

WHERE TO EAT: GrapeVine’s Italian Restaurant www.gvitalian.com 706-864-0290 I cannot say enough good things about this Italian restaurant. I could have eaten there every meal! Affordable prices, lovely atmosphere, but not too fancy for kids, delicious food, within walking distance of the town square.

Spirits Tavern www.spirits-tavern.com 706-482-0580 Right off the square, you can imbibe in an alcoholic beverage, eat a delicious meal and be sure to ask them why they REALLY call it Spirits Tavern – it’s not about the drinks. It’s a terrific place for lunch.

Capers on the Square http://business.dahlonega.org/ list/member/capers-on-thesquare-1609 706-867-0070 This delicious Mediterranean restaurant has an extensive menu with lots of Greek favorites. Kids eat free on Tuesdays!

Forrest Hills Resort http://forresthillsresort.com 706-864-6456 or 800-654-6313 Have dinner here, or definitely check out the buffet breakfast, featuring just about anything you could want for breakfast!

DID YOU KNOW? Amicalola State Park’s waterfall is the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi.

Photo by Carol Muse Evans

birminghamparent.com | 37

D E ST I NAT I O N GUI DE

The Chestatee River Diving Bell was used for miners to work at the bottom of the river.

They actually sent men down in it to mine for gold!

Park’s waterfall, the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi, just eight miles from the tip of the 21,000-mile Appalachian Trail. There’s a short way in that the guide at the gate can share with you. Just ask for the “shortcut to the falls.”

Before you go, check out Dahlonega’s Theatrical Season at the Holly Theater, www.hollytheater.com. There’s even a Holly Children’s Theater option. Performances run all year long, including Christmas performances in December.

Kids will enjoy the North Georgia Zoo & Farm (www.myfavoritezoo.com). Check out the seasonal times. The zoo features more than 200 animals, close encounters and a guided wildlife walk.

Speaking of animals, find some great non-live ones at an adorable shop on the square, Giggle Monkey Toys. Great toys, games, puzzles and books for kids of all ages are here. (www.gigglemonkeytoys.com).

Just off the square in Hancock Park you may see a strange looking, large metal “building” that reminds you of a large kiln.

It’s part of the gold history in Dahlonega, an 1875 Chestatee River Diving Bell. Once wanted by the Smithsonian, Dahlonega leaders decided to keep it, as it is a large part of their gold heritage. It was used for miners to work at the bottom of the river. They actually sent men down in it to mine for gold! It was put on display in Dahlonega in 2010. It is the only known surviving diving bell of its kind. Be sure to see it!

For more information on Dahlonega, visit www.dahlonega.org.

Photo by Carol Muse Evans

YOU DESERVE YOUR BEST SKIN.

BIRMINGHAM 813 Shades Creek Pkwy #205, Birmingham, AL 35209 205-578-1799 JASPER 300 North Airport Road, Suite 200, Jasper, AL 35504 205-578-1799

DR. KATE FLANAGAN

W W W. S H A D E S VA L L E Y D E R M .CO M 38 | birminghamparent | october 2017

Carol Muse Evans is publisher of Birmingham Parent and visited Dahlonega in July.

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If you would like your kid to be a Birthday Kids contestant, complete and send this form, along with a recent photograph of your child (photos will not be returned) to Birthday Kids, Birmingham Parent, P.O. Box 326, Helena, AL 35080. Child must be 13 and under to win. By entering, contestants and their parents or legal guardians release the photo to Birmingham Parent with no further obligation to Birmingham Parent, and give consent to Birmingham Parent to reproduce and publish any photographs submitted whether or not the entry is chosen as the winner. All entries must be signed by parent/guardian. Employees of Evans Publishing and contest sponsors are not eligible.

Nov. entries must be received by Oct. 13. You may also enter online at www.birminghamparent.com Entries can be sent ahead for later months.

CONGRATULATIONS to LAUREN HOLIFIELD, who will be 4 on October 2!

birminghamparent.com | 39

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It’s the month many of us wait for – October! There’s colorful fall leaves, crisp cool air, big orange pumpkins, hayrides, costumes, Halloween and more! Check out all the fun events that await those who love this month – indoors and outdoors! From fall festivals to hiking, there’s sure to be a lot to enjoy.

OCTOBER 14th

STAR WARS READS DAY 1-3pm, Homewood Library. The Homewood Library and Little Professor Book Center present this international event that celebrates reading and Star Wars. Bring the family for an afternoon of Star Wars fun!

28th ANNUAL HALLOWEEN FAIRYLAND

8th

WHISPERS FROM THE PAST – A NATIVE AMERICAN EXPERIENCE

PHOTOS COURTESY ALDRIDGE GARDENS

Come to Aldridge Gardens from 10am5:30pm and take a trip back in time to rediscover the culture and contributions of Native Americans! Flintknapping, pine needle basket weaving, pow wow dancing, bead weaving, dream catchers, children’s activities and more. For more information, go to www.aldridgegardens.com.

From 5-8pm, Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park fills up with lights and fun for the annual Halloween fairyland! It’s a non-scary, fun-filled event on the campgrounds! Park-sponsored programs during the afternoon and traditional Halloween candy trick or treat stops at more than 200 campsites during the evening. Moonwalks, face painting, balloon animals, bungee jump and more!

Park admission, information, www.tannehill.org.

birminghamparent.com | 41

calendar

Sponsored by

Frederick, 205-631-4680, seoutings@bellsouth.net.

Hikes for Tykes 10am, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Join Fresh Air Family and the BBG for a magical walk for preschool children and their families! Activities include scavenger hunts, dinosaur plants and building fairy houses.

Hands-on learning! FREE. Moody Oktoberfest 10am-4pm, Moody City Park.

Live entertainment, arts and craft vendors, food, bull riding, food, pony rides, children’s activities and more. FREE admission.

Southern Women’s Show 10am-7pm, Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, see October 5.

28th

OWL-O-WEEN 11am, Alabama Wildlife Center.

01 SUNDAY Direct Action Film Screening 2:30pm, Hoover Library. See the premier screening of the civil rights documentary Direct Action, which explores a pivotal untold story of the movement in Birmingham 1961-63. Information, 205-444-7816.

02 MONDAY STEM in Space 3:30-4:15pm, Homewood Library. Do you have what it takes to go into space? Part of the NASA@ My Library grant. Open to K-5th graders.

Knight Chess Tournament 5:30-7pm, Homewood Library.

Learn strategy and have fun!

Preschool-12th grade.

03 TUESDAY Lego League 4-4:45pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Builders of all ages! Kids 6-under must be with an adult.

05 THURSDAY Southern Women’s Show 10am-7pm, Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex. Four days of fun! Fashion, fun, shopping, guest chefs and more! Ad-

vance discount tickets available at Walgreens. Information, www. southernshows.com.

Family Storytime 6:30-7pm, Homewood Library.

Come dressed in your favorite pajamas and listen to stories before bedtime!

06 FRIDAY Southern Women’s Show 10am-8pm, Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, see October 5.

07 SATURDAY The Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place, 2829 2nd Ave. S. Rain or shine!

Mt Laurel Market and Craft Fair 8am-noon, Mt Laurel Town Center.

Southeastern Outings Dayhike 9am, Point Mallard Park and Dancey Bottoms, Decatur. Scenic views along Wheeler Lake.

After hike, visit the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Observation Building. Bring picnic lunch and drink. Well-behaved, properly supervised children 7-over welcome. Optional dinner after. Depart 9am at Hayden/ Corner Park and Ride. Dan

42 | birminghamparent | october 2017

Sensory Storytime 10:30-11:15am, Homewood Library. All-ages storytime introduces stories and songs in a sensory-friendly atmosphere.

The Jungle Book 2:30pm, Birmingham Children’s Theatre at the BJCC. Recommended ages 5 and up. Tickets, www.ticketmaster.com.

09 MONDAY Homeschool Happening 10-11am, Albert L. Scott Library.

Read, prepare a quick tasty treat and meet Charity Battles of Alabama 4-H Clubs! Kids grades 1-12 can sign up. 205-664-6822.

11 WEDNESDAY National Fossil Day 3-5pm, Anniston Museum of Natural History. 256-237-6766, www.annistonmuseum.org.

Genius Hour – Life on Mars 3:30pm, Homewood Library.

An afternoon of fun with the 4-H Extension Center. Find out about the possibility of life on other planets. K-5th grade.

12 THURSDAY

The Jungle Book 2:30pm, Birmingham Children’s Theatre at the BJCC. Recommended ages 5 and up. Tickets, www.ticketmaster.com.

6th Annual Taste of Hoover 5/8pm, Aldridge Gardens. Try a variety of different restaurants, types of food and tastes all in one spot. Tickets, information, www.aldridgegardens.com.

08 SUNDAY

14 SATURDAY

Whispers from the Past – A Native American Experience 10am-5:30pm, Aldridge Gardens. Take a trip back in time to rediscover the culture and contributions of Native Americans. Flintknapping, pine needle basket weaving, pow wow dancing, bead weaving, dream catchers, children’s activities and more. Information, www. aldridgegardens.com.

The Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place, 2829 2nd Ave. S. Rain or shine!

Southern Women’s Show 11am-5pm, Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, see October 5.

Fresh Air Family Fossil Hunt 9am, 1pm. The site has been newly turned, revealing exciting new fossils! Location, admission, other information, www.freshairfamily.org/fossil-hunt.

Southeastern Outings Dayhike 1pm, Oak Mountain State Park.

Moderate 4 mile walk. Well-behaved, properly supervised children 8-up able to complete the hike welcome. Optional dinner after hike. Depart 1pm from park office parking lot. Park admission charged. Edd Spencer, 205-317-5868.

Mt Laurel Market and Craft Fair 8am-noon, Mt Laurel Town Center.

Woodcarver Show 8am-4pm, Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park. Two-day event. www.tannehillwoodcarvers.org.

Hikes for Tykes 10am, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Join Fresh Air Family and the BBG for a magical walk for preschool children and their families! Activities include scavenger hunts, dinosaur plants and building fairy houses.

Hands-on learning! FREE.

calendar

Sponsored by

JCA Annual Heritage Festival 10am-3pm, Jefferson Christian Academy, Irondale. Arts and crafts vendors, food, music, silent auction, games, inflatables, rides and much more! 205-9569111, www.jcaweb.net.

Star Wars Reads Day 1-3pm, Homewood Library. The Homewood Library and Little Professor Book Center present this international event that celebrates reading and Star Wars.

Bring the family for an afternoon of Star Wars fun!

2nd Annual Fall Festival 6-9pm, Anniston Museum of Natural History & Berman Museum. Explore the world through Anniston Museum’s exhibit halls.

Live animals, hands-on wildlife education, haunted trail, face painting, hay rides, trick-or-treating, Halloween costume contest and more. Recommended for ages 10 and up. Anyone not up to braving the dark is can enjoy Halloween cartoons in the lobby. Vendors and food trucks will be on site. 256-237-6766, http:// www.annistonmuseum.org.

17 TUESDAY Birmingham Sci Café 6-8pm, John’s City Diner.

Science trivia at 6pm, guest speaker at 6:30pm. Hosted

by McWane Science Center and the Civitan International Research Center at UAB. FREE admission.

18 WEDNESDAY Southeastern Outings Dayhike 10am, Veterans Park, Hoover.

Easy three-mile hike. Bring water and wear good walking shoes/boots. Depart 10am from the park parking lot beside the building with restrooms. Optional lunch afterward. Randall Adkins, 205-317-6969.

20 FRIDAY American Girls Club 4pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Girls 7-older can model in a costume fashion show, dressing like an American Girl character or another costume. Come with or without a doll, model or be part of the audience! 205-664-6822.

12th Annual Halloween Spooktacular & Monster Mash Ball 5:30-7:30pm, Children’s Hands On Museum, Tuscaloosa. Your costume and a food bank item is admission! Prizes, games and more! DJ Chuckie! www. chomonline.org.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in Concert 7pm, Samford University Wright Center. Part of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s Red Diamond​®​ SuperPOPS season.

Perfect for families! Constantine Kitsopoulos, conductor. Tickets, information, www.alabamasymphony.org.

Radium Girls 7:30pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts Dorothy Jemison Day Theater. In 1926, radium was a miracle cure, Madam Curie an international celebrity, and luminous watches were the latest rage – until the girls who painted the clocks began to fall ill. Radium Girls traces the efforts of Grace Fryer, a dial painter, as she fights for her day in court. Tickets, information, www.djdtheater.org.

21 SATURDAY The Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place, 2829 2nd Ave. S. Rain or shine!

Mt Laurel Market and Craft Fair 8am-noon, Mt Laurel Town Center.

Southeastern Outings Dayhike 9am, Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail System, Lake Martin. Fourmile, moderately strenuous hike skirting the lake’s shoreline.

Wear hiking boots. Children 10over welcome. Depart 9am from parking lot of Publix at the Village at Lee Branch, Greystone.

Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680.

The Great Pumpkin Party 10am-4pm, Children’s Hands On Museum, Tuscaloosa. Help carve the official Jack O’Lantern, paint your own pumpkins, watch “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” and more! www. chomonline.org.

Hikes for Tykes 10am, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Join Fresh Air Family and the BBG for a magical walk

for preschool children and their families! Activities include scavenger hunts, dinosaur plants and building fairy houses.

Hands-on learning! FREE. Girl Scout Day at McWane 10am-6pm, McWane Science Center. Discounted admission and special programming! FREE for parents and troop leaders. www.mcwane.org.

Goosebumps Gala 10:30-11:30am, Homewood Library. Wear your favorite costume and have a FANG-filled morning! Bone-chilling games, ghoulish crafts and spooky treats.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in Concert 3pm, Samford University Wright Center, see October 20.

Family Time Tasty Tales 6pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Enjoy a taco dinner and listen to the book Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin.

Families with kids old enough to listen to the story and eat tacos can sign up by October 23. 205664-6822.

26 THURSDAY Pirate and Princess Night 6:30-7:30pm, Homewood Library. A night of revelry and royalty with games, crafts, snacks and photo opportunities.

Dress in your favorite costume!

Presented by Schaeffer Eye Center.

27 FRIDAY

Radium Girls 7:30pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts Dorothy Jemison Day Theater, see October 20.

An Evening at Hogwarts 5:30-11:30pm, McWane Science Center. Enjoy a fish and chips dinner in the Great Hall before heading to class to explore the science of magic! Make your own wizard wand, concoct potions, attend flying lessons and more! After class, enjoy a special showing of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban in the IMAX dome. Don’t forget your costume! Registration required. 205-714-8414, www. mcwane.org.

22 SUNDAY

28 SATURDAY

Teens & Tech 5-9pm, McWane Science Center. An after-hours event for students 6th-12th grade. Games, fun and food included! Younger siblings may not attend and seating is limited. Reservations, 205-714-8414. FREE admission.

Southeastern Outings Dayhike 1:30pm, Turkey Creek Nature Preserve Shepherd Addition, Pinson. Streams, small canyons, hills and more! Depart 1:30pm from the nature preserve oval.

Total walking distance about four miles. Well-behaved, properly supervised children age 7-up able to walk the distance welcome. David Shepherd, 205240-4681, davidshep2@yahoo. com.

Radium Girls 2:30pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts Dorothy Jemison Day Theater, see October 20.

24 TUESDAY Financial Planning Expo 1-5pm, Hoover Library. The expo is presented by the Financial Planning Association of Alabama. Free one-on-one consults throughout the day. Information, Bryce Thornton, 205-444-7816.

The Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place, 2829 2nd Ave. S. Rain or shine!

Mt Laurel Market and Craft Fair 8am-noon, Mt Laurel Town Center.

Pumpkins, Pancakes & Princesses 8-9am, Birmingham Zoo’s Trails of Africa. Adorn your crown or tiara, wear costumes and enjoy a special meet and greet between your little prince or princesses with our court of princesses at a royal breakfast!

Special appearances by favorite costumed characters, and each child receives a gift upon arrival.

Tickets, information, www. birminghamzoo.com.

Maple Leaf Run 8-11am, Trussville Mall. Adult 5K begins at 8am and a kids’ run follows at 9am. Family-friendly fun! 205-655-7535, www.trussvillechamber.com. birminghamparent.com | 43

calendar Southeastern Outings Dayhike 10am, Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve, Birmingham. Moderate four-mile hike. Bring picnic lunch and drink. Well-behaved, properly supervised children 8-up welcome. Depart 10am from the pavilion. Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680, seoutings@ bellsouth.net.

Hikes for Tykes 10am, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Join Fresh Air Family and the BBG for a magical walk for preschool children and their families! Activities include scavenger hunts, dinosaur plants and building fairy houses.

Hands-on learning! FREE.

Sponsored by

Boo at Bellingrath 11am-3pm, Bellingrath Gardens, Mobile. www.bellingrath.org.

Owl-O-Ween 11am, Alabama Wildlife Center.

Children’s activities, games, storytime, owl prowl, live bird of prey shows and complimentary candy! FREE after paid admission to Oak Mountain State Park.

Information, www.awrc.org.

October Fest Book Party featuring Father Goose!

4:30-5:30pm, Homewood Library. Join Father Goose himself for prizes, games and giveaways as he launches his new book, First Times. Charles Ghigna is author of more than 100 books.

FREE admission. www.homewoodpubliclibrary.org.

26th Annual Halloween Fairyland 5-8pm, Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park. A non-scary, fun-filled holiday event on the campgrounds! Park-sponsored programs during the afternoon and traditional Halloween candy trick or treat stops at more than 200 campsites during the evening. Moonwalks, face painting, balloon animals, bungee jump and more! Park admission, information, www.tannehill.org.

Helena City Park on AL Highway 261 in Helena. Mary Alice Thurman, 205-823-5165.

29 SUNDAY

Costume Capers Party 4:15pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Children who love magic and laughter may wear a costume if they like and gather in our meeting room to enjoy comic magician Russell Davis.

All children must be with an adult at this event.

Southeastern Outings Dayhike 2pm, Buck Creek, Helena. Less than four miles, moderately easy hike. Well-behaved, properly supervised children 8-up welcome. Depart 2pm from the

31 TUESDAY

HALLOWEEN Crestline Village Halloween Parade 4pm, Crestline Village, Mountain Brook.

PLEASE NOTE: Events may change after publication deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the November 2017 print issue is October 6. Mail calendar items to: Calendar, Birmingham Parent, P.O. Box 326, Helena, AL 35080; fax to 987-7600; e-mail to calendar@BirminghamParent.com; or enter directly to the online calendar at www.birminghamparent.com. Entries added online after the print deadline will not appear in the print version. Information cannot be accepted over the phone. Birmingham Parent publishes a calendar 11 times a year. January events are included in the December issue.

Guidelines: Birmingham Parent’s calendar is intended to be a resource and service to the community and our readers. Events which are open to the public, fundraisers, free classes, etc., are events that may be included in our monthly calendar. We reserve the right to reject any event or listing due to rules or space restrictions. For questions regarding calendar entries, call 987-7700 or e-mail calendar@birminghamparent.com.

BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S 8TH ANNUAL

PRESENTED BY

SATURDAY, MARCH 10, 2018, 10-3

sponsored by

AT THE EXCEPTIONAL FOUNDATION—FREE BOOTHS AND SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE CALL 205-987-7700 OR EMAIL INFO@BIRMINGHAM PARENT.COM 44 | birminghamparent | october 2017

MITCHELL’S PLACE

events & attractions

Sponsored by

n Aldridge Botanical Gardens

n Birmingham

3530 Lorna Road, Hoover.

205-682-8019, www.aldridgegardens.com

Children’s Theatre 1001 19th St. North, Birmingham, AL, 35203, 205-458-8181, www. bct123.org

n Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame 1631 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham. 205-254-2731, www.jazzhall.com

n Birmingham

2150 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham. 323-6665, www.ashof.org

Civil Rights Institute “Alabama and Beyond: African-American Educators and Their Art.” These selections are from the Carnetta and Norm Davis Collection and feature 30 works of art, shown in BCRI’s Odessa Woolfolk Gallery.

Through October 22.

16th St. N., Birmingham.

205-328-9696, www.bcri.org

n Alabama Wildlife Center

n Birmingham Museum of Art

100 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-663-7930. www.awrc.org

2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham.

205-254-2565, www.artsbma.org

n Alabama School of Fine Arts 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd.

n Alabama Sports Hall of Fame

n Albert L Scott Alabaster Public Library 100 9th Street NW, Alabaster, AL, 35007. 205-664-6822, www.cityofalabaster.com/departments/library

n American Village Highway 119, Montevallo.

205-665-3535, www.americanvillage.org

n Barber Motorsports Park • 13th Annual Barber Vintage Motorsports Festival. October 6-8. One of the most highly anticipated motorcycle events in the world. Food, entertainment, stunt shows, fan zone, Ferris wheel and more! Tickets, information, www.barberracingevents.com.

6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Leeds. 205-298-9040, www.barberracingevents.com.

n Birmingham Botanical Gardens • Antiques at the Gardens.

Friday and Saturday, October 6-7, 10am-5pm; Sunday, October 8, 11-4pm. Features regionally and nationally known architects, interior designers and landscape designers who will curate themed areas. Antique dealers from across the U.S. will present antiques, furniture, porcelain, fine art, garden accessories, jewelry and more. Tickets to individual events, www.bbgardens.org.

2612 Lane Park Road, Birmingham. 205-414-3900, www. bbgardens.org

BOO AT THE ZOO! AT THE BIRMINGHAM ZOO

n Birmingham Public Libraries Find a library near you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.bplonline.org

n Birmingham Zoo • Boo at the Zoo! A favorite event, the zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions for 12 nights! New this year: Red Mountain Theatre Ghost Tour and Hayride! Presented by Wells Fargo. Dates: October 15, 19-22, 26-31. Tickets, information, www.birminghamzoo.com • In-park Special Attractions: Pirates! Set “rail” on the Pirate Red Diamond Express Train Ride at the Zoo! Dozens of life-size, animatronic swashbucklers take over the zoo trains. Through December 31.

2630 Cahaba Road, Birmingham. 205-879-0409, www. birminghamzoo.com

n Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum • Ride the Pumpkin Patch Express! Every Saturday and Sunday during the month of October, ride the train to the pumpkin patch and pick your perfect pumpkin! Hayrides, bounce house and more! Saturday departures at 10am, 1pm, 3pm; Sunday departures at, 1pm, 3pm. Information, tickets, www.hodrrm.org.

1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205-6683435, www.hodrrm.org

Jefferson County Library Cooperative Find a library close to you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.jclc.org McWane Science Center • Going Places. Planes! Trains!

Rockets! Cars! Explore this exhibition and discover the technology of transportation. Fly a plane, ride a hovercraft, learn to fly an airship!

IMAX Movies: • Journey to the South Pacific.

A breathtaking adventure to the lush tropical islands of remote West Papua, where life flourishes above and below the sea.

• Dream Big. Engineering’s impressive impact on our world and our lives. Through April 2018.

200 19th St. N., Birmingham.

205-714-8300, www.mcwane.org.

Moss Rock Preserve Preserve Parkway, Hoover.

205-739-7141, www.hooveral.org.

Oak Mountain State Park 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-620-2520, www.alapark.com.

Roy Downs Calera Library 9700 Highway 25, Calera.

205-668-7200. www.cityofcalera.org.

Ruffner Mountain Nature Center 1214 81st St. S., Birmingham.

205-833-8264, www.ruffnermountain.org.

Shelby County Public Libraries Find a library near you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.shelbycounty-al.org Southern Museum of Flight 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham.

205-833-8226, www.southernmuseumofflight.org Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park 12632 Confederate Parkway, McCalla. 205-477-5711, www.tannehill.org Vulcan Park 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham. 205-933-1409, www.vulcanpark.org

birminghamparent.com | 45

PO ET RY PARTY

Donuts

for Halloween!

By Charles Ghigna

Who likes Halloween? Who likes donuts?

Do you? Here are a couple of poems by poets who like them too!

DONUTS Donuts chocolate, glazed, strawberry, Donuts warm and yummy.

Donut sprinkles, powder, fudge.

Donuts in my tummy!

by Lillian Cowart, Age 9

After you read “Donuts” and “Halloween Night,” we hope you will write a poem about something YOU like! It can be a treat, a holiday, a pet, a hobby— anything at all!

HALLOWEEN NIGHT Tonight is a fright.

It’s Halloween night.

Ghosts and goblins— What a sight!

by Maddie Hyde, age 8

Send us your poems and we will publish them here!

Parents and teachers! Send us poems written by your children ages 4-14. Include the poet’s name & age and the name of person submitting the poem. Please include your relationship to the poet (parent, teacher, etc.). Send original poems to Father Goose at PaGoose@aol.com.

For information on “How to Write a Poem,” visit the Father Goose® website at FatherGoose.com.

46 | birminghamparent | october 2017

DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOUR KIDS WANT TO DO NEXT SUMMER?

2018

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2018 . 10 A.M.—3 P.M. Free face painting, entertainment, giveaways & MORE FREE ADMISSION to event; admission charged to McWane Science Center Adventure Halls. First 200 to register at birminghamparent.com get in FREE that day!

PRESENTED BY

SPONSORED BY

NEW LOCATION! MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER

of Greater Birmingham

birminghamparent.com | 47

Tickets Start at $15!

Restrictions, exclusions and additional charges may apply. Subject to availability.

1703181

BJCC CONCERT HALL

NOV 17 & 18

SesameStreetLive.com