Protecting your Child from Identity Theft

Posted on Sunday, April 22, 2018 by Angie

You buckle them into car seats, make sure they wear a helmet when riding their bikes and keep a first- aid kit on hand at all times. As a parent, you do everything you can to guard your children’s physical safety, but do you know how to protect them from identity theft?

How Common Is Child Identity Theft?
Over 15,000 of the identity theft complaints to the Federal Trade Commission in 2016 affected children and teens (anyone age 19 and under), which represents 4% of all identity theft complaints for theyear. The Identity Theft Resource Center, which tracks identity theft and data breach statistics, also reports that 4.4% of the identity theft victim calls they received last year involved child identity theft.

While child identity theft accounts for a small portion of all fraud and identity theft, it can still be extremely damaging, especially when it goes unnoticed. Identity thieves can cause extensive damage to a child’s credit for years before their crime is detected.

Experian ® handles 25,000-30,000 fraud cases each year and approximately 17% were targeted at children. According to Michael Bruemmer, Vice President of Consumer Protection for Experian, child identity fraud or theft will affect 25% of kids before turning 18.

Why Do Identity Thieves Target Kids?
Children can be seen as a treasure trove for identity thieves. Because they don’t pay bills, take out loans or hold credit cards, children’s credit histories are clean slates that identity thieves can exploit. Identity thieves also know that parents and guardians often don’t think to monitor their children’s identities or credit files. Many parents don’t discover their children have been the victims of identity theft until the child has to use his or her Social Security number for the first time, such as on college financial aid applications, or when applying for a first summer job or credit card.

How Thieves Use Children’s Identities
Anything identity thieves can do with an adult’s personal identifying information, they can also do with a child’s information.

For example, they may open credit cards, mortgages, auto loans or other lines of credit in the child’s name. They may use the child’s information to open utility accounts or commit fraud on government, tax, health or employment forms. Criminals may use a child’s identity to conceal their own in order to avoid arrest or prosecution.

Because child identity theft can go undetected for so long, it can be very difficult to clear up the problems it causes.

Protection and Prevention Tips
While identity thieves are creative and motivated, parents and guardians still can do a lot to reduce the risk of their child becoming a victim of identity theft.

1. Protect your child’s Social Security number. Never share it with anyone who doesn’t have a very
good reason for having it. For example, your accountant needs your son’s number if you’re declaring him as a dependent on your tax return, but the softball team he plays for doesn’t need it as identification. It’s always okay to ask for clarification on why your child’s (or your) Social Security number is needed before sharing it. Many times, it’s not actually necessary. Never carry your child’s Social Security card, just as you shouldn’t carry yours around. Memorize the number and keep the card stored in a secure place.

2. Monitor your child’s personal information. Unrecognized activity involving your child’s email address, phone number, bank accounts or other personal information can be a signal that information has been compromised. Although a phone number may seem innocuous, identity thieves can use your child’s phone number to get access to accounts. Many companies use a phone number for identity verification. Caller ID spoofing allows identity thieves to make your child’s phone number appear when they call one of these companies. They also use automated callers (hoping to get your child to type in or record information), and some are brave enough to impersonate institutions and call your child directly.

3. Pay attention to privacy policies. Schools, clubs, dentists, doctor’s offices, sports teams, etc.—virtually everyone has a privacy policy that details how your child’s private information will be used, handled and protected. Read these policies to understand potential sources of risk to your child’s information. Also, as mentioned above, you should always ask questions to clarify or understand more if you don’t understand any details or information included in a privacy policy.

4. Use your own information whenever possible. Parents often share information about their kids without thinking about it. For example, your daughter wants to enroll in a gaming store’s rewards club, and you open the account in her name. While organizations are likely not purposely misusing the information, it’s possible their data, including your child’s information, could be stolen or misused. Protect your child’s personal information by using your own instead, whenever possible.

5. Avoid oversharing on social media. Social media has become a great way to keep far-off friends and family up to date on what your child is doing. But identity thieves also know social media can be a source of useful information. Avoid sharing personal information about your child on social media with anyone other than people you know personally.

6. Monitor your child’s social media and online activity. You may want to reconsider or do more research before you allow a minor child to have a social media account in his or her real name. It’s also important to closely monitor your child’s social media use to ensure you know who he or she is talking to and what they’re sharing online.

7. Keep your home safe. A break-in could net burglars more than just your physical valuables if important documents like birth certificates and Social Security cards are unsecured in your home. Always lock doors and windows, set the alarm if you have one, and keep valuable documents in a safe or another secure, locked location. Fireproof safes that lock are good ways to keep information protected from various threats.

8. Teach your children well. It’s important for kids to understand identity theft risks. Find age-appropriate ways to talk to children about the topic. You probably already do without even realizing it. For example, telling your young child not to talk to strangers includes her understanding not to tell them her name.

Detecting Signs of Child Identity Theft
Although child identity theft can sometimes be difficult to detect, there are some signs you can watch
for:
– Your child receives offers for pre-approved credit cards.
– You receive bills in your child’s name.
– A collection notice arrives with your child’s name on it.
– Your application for government benefits for your child is refused because benefits are already being paid out to someone using your child’s Social Security number.
– You receive a letter from the IRS saying your child owes taxes. Be aware, however, that any phone call from someone claiming to be with the IRS is almost certainly fraudulent. The IRS communicates with taxpayers by U.S. mail only.

If you suspect your child is a victim of identity theft, your first step should be to check his or her credit
file. Contact Experian to find out if a credit report already exists in your child’s name—there shouldn’t
be one. If a credit report exists, you can look into options like a credit freeze. Experian has more resources on fraud and identity theft to help you and your family stay informed.

What to Do If Your Child’s Identity Is Stolen
If you discover evidence of child identity theft, you should act quickly to:
– Notify the credit reporting agencies that fraud has occurred on your child’s file and ask them to investigate.
– Notify the business or financial institution that issued the credit or loan. Let them know the account was fraudulently opened in the name of your minor child. Ask them to investigate.
– File a police report with your local law enforcement agency.
– File a fraud report with the FTC online or by calling 877-438- 4338.

Child identity theft can be a scary crime for parents to face, but with some vigilance and preventive steps, it’s possible to reduce the risk your child will become a victim of identity thieves.

This article originally appeared on the Experian Blog:

Ellen Sirull is senior manager of content at Experian Consumer Services, a division of Experian, the
nations largest credit bureau. In her role, she helps consumers learn about credit, personal finance and identity theft protection.

For more information please visit the Experian Blog

Friday Five: Top Picks for Weekend Fun April 20th – April 22nd

Posted on Friday, April 20, 2018 by Angie

So much to do, so little time! Lots of fun happening in the ‘Ham this weekend!

Indy Grand Prix at Barber Motor Sports

Pack your picnic, bring a cooler and head out to Barber Motorsports Park for a weekend full of activities and racing. Names such as Helio Castroneves, Marco Andretti, Graham Rahal, Will Power and many more will be competing for the title. This family-friendly event is right in your own backyard, so don’t miss out.

Three-Day general admission $69
Friday general admission $15
Saturday general admission $29
Sunday general admission $39

Ticket upgrades and camping available.

Friday, 9am – 6:30pm
Saturday, 9am – 6:30pm
Sunday, 9am – 6:30pm

Farm Day at the Birmingham Zoo

Take a look at Alabama’s agricultural heritage with a fun and educational peek into daily farm life during this annual event in the Junior League of Birmingham – Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo. Farm Day features a variety of activities and booths to educate the public about Alabama’s rural and agricultural heritage. Watch sheep shearing, goat hoof trimming and horse shoe making demonstrations. Enjoy presentations from the Birmingham Fiber Guild, 4-H youth group, and more! Farm Day is free for Zoo Members and included in admission for non-members.

10am-2pm: Booths featuring 4-H youth group, Girl Scout troop #30647, Fiber Guild, Alfa Young Farmers and Farrier (Horseshoe making) and more!
10am-11am: Sheep Shearing in the Barn
1:30pm-2pm: Hoof Trimming demonstration in the Barn

Saturday, 10am – 2pm

Day out with Thomas at Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

Join the Heart Of Dixie Railroad Museum as we celebrate friendship by visiting everyone’s #1 engine, Thomas the Tank Engine™ for a Day Out With Thomas™. Day Out With Thomas offers an opportunity for children and their families to experience a train ride with Thomas the Tank Engine™ and to meet Sir Topham Hatt™, the Controller of the Railway. Be sure to stop by the Thomas & Friends Imagination Station with Thomas-themed activities including temporary tattoos. Children can splash around in the bubble station, play an exciting game of mini golf, and much more. Day Out With Thomas is sure to provide a day of memorable, family fun!

Every event features a ride and hours of different activities. Please plan to spend several hours at the event to enjoy all offered activities!

Sat April 21, 2018 9:00 am, 9:45 am, 10:30 am, 11:15 am, noon, 12:45 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:15 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:45 pm, 4:30 pm
Sun April 22 ,2018 9:45 am, 10:30 am, 11:15 am, noon, 12:45 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:15 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:45 pm

Earth Day at the Gardens

As one of the top 5 states for Biodiversity, Alabama’s Green Spaces are as inspiring as they are beautiful thanks to our warm, moist climate and the geological diversity of our state. Birmingham alone is the home to 110 city operated parks, and one public garden: Birmingham Botanical Gardens. It\’s also home to another dozen private and publicly held parks and nature preserves that make the Magic City a majestic site for nature lovers. Join us at the Gardens as we celebrate our local Green Spaces, learn how to protect them, and the different activities we can enjoy with our family and friends.

Saturday, 11am – 4pm

Gumbo Gala at Sloss Furnaces

Join Birmingham’s best Professional and Backyard Gumbo chef’s as they compete for the bragging rights to the title of Birmingham’s Best Gumbo. Enjoy great music, a kids zone, incredible gumbo and a great time all for a great cause.

Episcopal Place provides seniors and disabled adults with restricted income a safe and affordable housing option and access to related services in a home-like environment.

Gumbo Gala is a family friendly event that raises funds and awareness for Episcopal Place and the wonderful community of seniors and adults who live there. It has become the South’s largest gumbo event that draws 4,000 people annually!

Visit gumbogala.com for information about tickets and team registrations.

Saturday, 11am – 2pm

For EVEN MORE events happening this week and beyond, make sure to follow our events calendar!

Our Sponsor:

Scott Butler specializes in over the Mountain Home Sales with a high number of listings and past sells in the Homewood area. He has a great love of the community and volunteers his time and talents as a Photographer to the Homewood Athletic teams, Homewood Schools, and many other local Organizations and Charities.

IndiaFest Free Family Day

Posted on Friday, April 20, 2018 by Angie

Presented by UAB Department of Art & Art History and UAB’s Alys Stephens Center

Please see the Alys Stephens Center Website for the schedule of activities: https://www.alysstephens.org/events/indiafest-family-day/

Bring the kids and enjoy an afternoon of fun for the entire family! Activities include visual arts projects for children, Indian mandala coloring for all ages, Indian rangoli making in the Art Plaza, several short film screenings, and an Indian dance demo.

Schedule is subject to change.

Saturday, April 21st
2pm – 5pm

Earth Day Tips

Posted on Wednesday, April 18, 2018 by Angie

Earth Day is Sunday, April 22nd. While we shouldn’t wait for this day each year to get our green on, it is a good day to remind yourself of the simple things you can do to help protect our environment. Little things make a BIG difference!

1. Turn off lights and invest in products that conserve electricity when the appliance is only plugged in. Even when not turned on, an electronic appliance that is plugged into a power source still draws energy. We could unplug all of our electronics every time they are not in use, but that’s annoying.

2. Buy food from farmers’ markets. The carbon impact of transportation is reduced.

3. Flush less water. Most toilets wash 3.5 gallons of water away with each flush. If you can’t install a high efficiency toilet, you could try installing a Toilet Tank Bank made by Niagara Conservation, which essentially is a water balloon placed in the toilet tank and saves up to .8 gallons per flush.

4. Stop brown-bagging lunch. Instead, pack it in a reusable container and use a reusable water bottle.

5. Shower smarter. The average shower head spits out 2.5 gallons of water per minute. That means that a person who takes a 10-minute shower every morning uses over 9,000 gallons of water a year. Cut back by installing a shower head that is EPA approved.

6. Run your dishwasher only when it’s full.

Do you have any quick green tips to share?

Free Family Day at Art Play

Posted on Wednesday, April 18, 2018 by Angie

Celebrate the story and characters of Down the Yellow Brick Road before the ASC brings them to life on stage! Follow our very own yellow brick road to the ArtPlay house for lots of fun things to do including face painting, art activities and pictures with your favorite cast of characters. Attendees can also enter to win tickets for a family of 4 to see Down the Yellow Brick Road at the Alys Stephens Center May 12-13! This event is FREE. No RSVP required.

VOTE! Moms Rock Finalists 2018!

Posted on Monday, April 16, 2018 by Angie

Thank you all for submitting the Rockin’ Moms in your life.. After reading and re-reading the stories, we’ve narrowed the selection down to these 5 Amazing Women! Take a moment to read their stories then follow the link at the bottom of the post to cast your Vote for one of them to have a chance to win some fabulous prizes at Moms Rock 2018 this Thursday at Bartaco!

Kathryn Harris

Kathryn rocks because not only does she manage to mommy her four kids (ages 5 to 12), ferrying them to school, soccer, baseball, basketball, volleyball, dance, and piano/violin lessons, but she takes care of everyone around her.

Three years ago when she saw me not feeling well at the Homewood rec center, she called to check on me later and even showed up at my house that night with a blood glucose monitor she had just bought at a drugstore. She followed me to the hospital, where I was immediately admitted (for three nights) and diagnosed with diabetes. (Apparently I was very sick!)

Even though Kathryn has more going on than the rest of us, she has never failed to make time for others.

She can put four kids to bed, change clothes, whip out that pony tail, and come downstairs looking like she spent all night getting ready.

Her New Year’s Eve tradition of having a ball drop (lots of balloons) at 6pm for kids who can’t possibly make it to midnight has become a favorite of my family. There is always something fun happening at Kathryn’s. All you have to do is show up, because her door is always open.

Last year she fell and hit her head, and what first looked like a standard concussion, has turned out to be a traumatic brain injury, and a year later she is still working on a total recovery. For six months she couldn’t drive but she found a way to make sure her kids got to all their after school activities and life continued on, with her trying to keep their homelife the same as it was before. This did not come without great sacrifice. Kathryn had to take her youngest, her baby, out of preschool at Dawson, and enroll him in all day daycare at OLS. She is happy with the program and mentions how wonderful it is, but I know how hard it must have been for her to do it. I know because I saw her tear up three-and-half years earlier, when she had to put this child into preschool five days a week because an undiagnosed hearing disorder had put him at risk for developmental delay. He’s her a baby, and she knew he would be her last. It was not easy to give up those special mornings alone with him, knowing there would be no more babies to follow him, but with his pediatrician’s advice, she did it and never looked back.

Maybe the best proof of what a great mom Kathryn is, is her kids. They are the kindest, most thoughtful children I know. They’ve had to step up this last year, and take on more responsibility, and they’ve done it beautifully.

Jessica Hall

Jessica rocks so hard she literally straight up resurrected me this year. Before I explain how she did that though, let me give you some background. We have three children under the age of 8. She has always been a mom who rocks. We both work full-time. She is very well-respected by colleagues and clients alike. Even though she grinds so hard at work, she always has a huge smile on her face when it is time to be with our kids. She teaches them how to live a moral life by modeling for them how to empathize with people and how to interact with people with quiet grace. This year her job got a lot harder though. One year ago this week, I was diagnosed with an extremely rare condition called Guillain Barre Syndrome. This syndrome caused me to go from healthy to paralyzed from head to toe within 48 hours. I could not move at all. I could not see. I could not communicate. I could not even breathe and required intubation and a ventilator. All I could feel was pain during this time. I was in the ICU at UAB like that for two months.

The treatments for my disease then started to work. I was moved to the Neuro Special Unit for one month, and then the Shepherd rehabilitation hospital for five months. She was by my side almost every night whispering words of encouragement and reminding me that I was needed on Earth to help her raise our three wild ginger girls. Meanwhile, her days could best be categorized as chaos. She would leave the ICU at 5 AM so she could be home in time to help our girls eat breakfast and get ready for school. She would then drop them at school, work two hours with clients all over Birmingham, head back to spend two hours with me at the hospital, then drive all over the place for her work for four hours, then spend three hours with the kids after school doing homework, dinner, and baths, and then she would come right back to the ICU to be with me. She took the girls on little adventures all over Birmingham so they could keep their minds off of my illness. She sacrificed so much, and she inspired me every day with her love. I am so much better now as I sit here writing this one year after my diagnosis. I have no doubt I would be gone from this Earth if not for how hard she rocked it for me and our kids. When I wanted to give up, she would not let me. I joke that she has always been the MVP of our family, but this year she earned Hall of Fame Wife and Mother status. Now that I am better, people are always being kind to recognize the amazing things I have been able to accomplish. She is the one who really deserves the recognition though, because she saved my life Please pick her, she deserves it so much!

Christin Knight

Christin jumps on every opportunity to make life fun, especially for her kids! She has three littles ages six and under and is always on the move. She had the presence of mind to get tested for the BRACA 2 gene and the results came back positive. As a result she has gone through a double mastectomy and is awaiting a hysterectomy to ensure that she will not succumb to the same cancer that took the lives of many woman in her family with the primary goal of being there for her kids. She is actively involved in PTO and all of her kids activities. She really rocks!

Stephani Wagnon

Stephani is my sister, but she is more than that. At a young age, she knew she wanted to be a mommy, but not just a biological mom, also an adoptive and foster mom. She went on to achieve a double degree from the University of Alabama in child life and early childhood development and married the same year, in 2015. Her and her husband quickly began the process to become certified to foster and received their first foster in late 2016. From there, they accepted three more fosters over the next year, a sibling set and another single. She is now the amazing foster mother to four children, ranging from the ages of 3 to 17. Her and her husband are also in the process of adopting their first foster. She single handedly raises the four while her husband works full time. This includes making sure each goes to doctors appointments, therapist appointments, school, meetings with lawyers and case workers, and that they also are happy, participating in extra-curricular activities, and have anything that they could want or need. I’m daily amazed by her faith, abilities, and the way she makes parenting four children look like a cake walk. Going from zero to four children in the matter of a year, and only being 25, she’s my hero. I may be the older sister, but I sincerely look up to her. Yes, our family offers as much support as possible to help her in the fostering journey, but she has the drive to ensure that all her kids and any future fosters know they are worthy and loved. If anyone deserves a vacation, it is my sister, Stephani.

Kristi Jones

Kristi Jones is an amazing Mom to four precious, rambunctious children ages 10 to 1 year old. She maintains a home with a warm, welcoming environment and an open door policy that keeps it filled with friends and family who show up to enjoy some old-fashioned horseplay, an outdoor woodland adventure, help build their own engineering marvel in the playroom, and famous fresh-baked iced ginger cookies in the kitchen!

Kristi manages to balance a crazy schedule with four kiddos (church, soccer, baseball, karate and music lessons), while still reaching out to help make our community of Trussville a fun and safe place for all of our kids! She is active in the Cahaba Elementary School PTO, designing the school yearbook using her own lively and creative graphic designs. She has also worked to support our school system by founding Be The Change for TCS, an online Facebook forum that shares information about education and parenting, encourages open conversation, and community engagment in the issues facing our school system. She is the founder (and creative force) behind the TVL SAFE campaign, a road safety movement that strives to make our neighborhood streets safe for kids who love to walk and bike to school, the library and parks.

Kristi not only strives to create a playful and healthy environment for her kids, but has worked tirelessly to make sure that all of Trussville’s kids are included in the fun!

CLICK HERE TO CAST YOUR VOTE FOR MOMS ROCK 2018!!

Voting will close at Noon on Thursday, April 19th. Winner will be announced at the event!

Birmingham Summer Camps 2018

Posted on Sunday, April 15, 2018 by Angie

Birmingham Summer Camps

Acting Out Academy

AOA is the premiere on-camera acting academy in the greater Birmingham, Ala., area. Acting Out’s parallel mission is to provide quality performing arts education where it is most needed — namely, in communities where it is lacking. The core of all of our programs is designed to build self-confidence in young people through the performing arts.

Movie Camp – All Ages and Experiences
June 18th – 22nd and July 30th – Aug. 3rd

Movie Camp: $335
This camp of for all experienced stars between 6 and 15 years old. Students will begin the week learning the basics of on-camera acting before auditioning for our original movie. We will film the movie Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and premiere it for family and friends on Friday. Examples of our movies can be found here: http://www.actingoutacademy.com/movie-camps-2018

Advanced Movie Camp: $450
This camp will be a step up from our original movie camp where selected students will work with a larger crew on a more complex script and set. Students that wish to participate will be asked to send in a video audition before being selected by filmmakers. The hours for camp may go longer than usual and students can expect rehearsals to be scheduled before the week of camp. Campers will also have an opportunity to submit their own scripts.

Summer Film Acting Academy – All experiences welcome
July 16th – 20th

Students will spend a week with the best coaches from all over the Country. Taking classes in on camera acting, voice overs, commercial acting, self taping, audition technique and more.

Visit their site for more information or to register

Aldridge Gardens

June will be a full month long of excitement, entertainment and, of course, education at Aldridge Gardens. We have plenty of camps to choose from for boys and girls entering Kindergarten through 5th grades. Whether your little campers like American Girls, art, science and technology, geography, building and engineering, or animation, we’ve have something they’re sure to enjoy!

Entering 5K – 3rd Grades:
June 4 – 8 Maker-Space Makers
June 4 – 8 Cool Art
June 4 – 8 Engineering and Construction
June 11 – 15 Cool Art
June 11 – 15 Engineering and Construction
June 18 – 22 S.T.E.A.M (Science, Tech, Engineering, Art, Math) Lab
June 18 – 22 Around the World in 5 Days
June 18 – 22 Engineering and Construction
June 25 – 29 Cool Art
June 25 – 29 Engineering and Construction

Entering 5k – 2nd Grades
June 4 – 8 American Girl Dolls
June 11 – 15 American Girl Dolls
June 18 – 22 American Girl Dolls
June 25 – 29 American Girl Dolls

Entering 3rd – 5th Grades
June 11 – 15 American Girl Dolls
June 25 – 29 Stop Action Animation

Day camps run from 9:00 a.m. to Noon, Monday through Friday. Mid-morning snacks and drinks are provided.

All teachers have Alabama Certification in Education.

Pre‐registration required. Register early. Camp enrollment is limited!

Cost:

Family Level Members of Aldridge Gardens: $115 per camp
Non-Members of Aldridge Gardens: $135 per camp
Changes to registration (moving from one camp to another, etc) will cost an additional $35
Click Here to Register.

ArtPlay

The University of Alabama at Birmingham hosts several summer camps on campus each year. Presented by UAB departments and groups, the camps offer fun activities for children and easy and convenient choices for parents.

Summer Camp 1: Magic Tree House, “The Knight at Dawn”

Ages 7 – 12
June 4 to June 15, 2018 Mon – Friday
Meeting Time: 9:00 am – 3:30 pm
Teaching Artists: Jennifer Salvant
Class Cost: $400.00

Summer Camp 2: The Little Mermaid, Jr.

Ages 7 – 12
June 18 to June 29, 2018 Mon – Friday
Meeting Time: 9:00 am – 3:30 pm
Teaching Artists: Valerie Lemmons
Class Cost: $400.00

Discovering The Visual Arts Camp A

Ages 7 – 12
June 25 to June 39, 2018 Mon – Friday
Meeting Time: 9:30 am – 3:00 pm
Class Cost: $250.00

Summer Master Camp: Shrek, Jr.

Ages 10 – 18
July 09 to July 27, 2018 Mon – Friday
Meeting Time: 9:00 am – 3:30 pm
Teaching Artists: Reid Watson
Class Cost: $585.00

Discovering the Visual Arts Camp B

Ages 7 – 12
July 16 to July 20, 2018 Mon – Friday
Meeting Time: 9:30 am – 3:00 pm
Class Cost: $250.00

Check this page for more information, class description or to Register

Beauty and Brains Girls STEM Camps

High energy, dynamic and fun- half-day Science, Technology, Engineering and Math-based summer
camps for girls in grades K-6th. Camps are Monday-Friday from 9:30 am until 1:30 pm. Camp fee is
$145… discounts are available.

Vestavia Hills Civic Center
1975 Merryvale Rd
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216

We wholeheartedly believe that summer camp should be super-duper crazy fun and amazingly
enriching at the same time. We believe it’s just as important to make new friends and have water
balloon fights as it is to learn to program robots. That is exactly why innovation is at the center of all
we have to offer here at Beauty & Brains!

Session 1 | Week of June 11, 2018
Dollhouse Design Studio
In our amazing new Dollhouse Design Studio theme…girls will have the opportunity to create their
own miniature dream house. They will be introduced to basic principles of architecture, interior, and
product design. They will learn the art of sketching ideas, planning their spaces and curating their
mixed materials. From popsicle stick wood floors to up-cycled furniture and decorative accessories –
an amazing outcome is guaranteed – as girls think broadly about creative and architectural design.
Click here to register.

Session 2 | Week of June 18, 2018
Dollhouse Design Studio
In our amazing new Dollhouse Design Studio theme…girls will have the opportunity to create their
own miniature dream house. They will be introduced to basic principles of architecture, interior, and
product design. They will learn the art of sketching ideas, planning their spaces and curating their
mixed materials. From popsicle stick wood floors to up-cycled furniture and decorative accessories –
an amazing outcome is guaranteed – as girls think broadly about creative and architectural design.
Click here to register.

Session 3 | Week of June 25, 2018
Invent Like a Girl
In our week-long Invent like a Girl summer camp session, we will inspire girls to re-invent their
worlds. Our goal is to create tomorrow’s innovators and idea makers. We’ll introduce girls to robots,
circuits, Lego design, gizmos, and gadgets! Girls will unleash the creative inventor they ALL have
within. Click here to register.

Session 4 | Week of July 16, 2018
Adventures in Animation
In our Stop Motion Animation camp, girls will get to bring all their animation ideas to life! Girls will
create their own characters, settings, and scenes during their small group collaborations using

LEGO clay, toys or paper. They’ll get to create or recreate amazing movie scenes using our special
software, green screen, and sound effects. At the end of the camp session, girls will go home with
an amazing animated movie to share. Click here to register.

Session 5 | Week of July 23, 2018
Rockets & Robots
We invite girls to blast off into our exciting summer camp session of Rockets & Robots-oh My! Girls
will learn the basics of rocket science as they experience the thrill of launching their rockets
hundreds of feet into the sky! They will also learn the basics of robotics, and discover how these
amazing machines work and perform tasks. They’ll meet our new spherical shaped robot that can
roll anywhere up to 4.5 mph! This amazing theme will fuse rocketry, robotics and digital technology
that will ignite their imaginations and defy their expectations! Click here to register.

For more information or to register visit website.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Programs are designed to actively promote your child’s natural sense of creativity and discovery with fun learning experiences in the unmatched setting at Birmingham Botanical Gardens!

June 4-8 American Girl: Girls Just Like Me [5K-2nd]
June 4-8 It’s a Buggy World [5K-2nd]
June 4-8 Fairytales in the Gardens [Ages 4-5]
June 18-22 Cooking Up Art at The Gardens [5K-2nd]
June 18-22 Spa Camp [5K-4th]
June 25-29 Let’s Get Growing: The Tiny Seed [Ages 4-5]
June 25-29 Little Seeds: Growing Little Gardeners [5k-2nd]
June 25-29 Plant Odyssey in The Gardens [3rd-6th]

July 9 -13 Garden Exploration Through Rock Painting [5K-2nd]
July 9-13 Garden Exploration Through Rock Painting [3rd-6th]
July 16-20 Summer Garden Chefs [5K-2nd]
July 16-20 Summer Garden Chefs [3rd-6th]
July 23-27 Growing Through Yoga [5K-4th]
July 23-27 Summer Garden Chefs: World Class Chefs: Grades 1-2
July 23-27 Garden Roots: A Garden to Table Cooking Camp [Grades 3-8]

Summer Camp Shirts included with each registration fee: To Register for one of their camps, Click Here

Birmingham School of Music

Summer Drum Set Camp: June June 25 – 29, 2018
Open to students age 7 and up and at all skill levels from beginner to advanced.

Rock N Roll Band Camp:June 11 – 15, 2018
Open to students age 8 and up. This camp is for experienced players. Please contact us for details.

Musical Theater/Voice Camp: July 16 – 20, 2018
Open to students age 7 and up and at all skill levels from beginner to advanced.

Beginner Music Camp: July 16 – 20, 2018
Open to students age 5 to 10 who have not decided on an instrument.

For more Information or to Register visit their site

Birmingham Zoo

Zoofari Camp allows your children to have up close animal encounters, exciting lessons, splash fountains, guided tours, animal demonstrations, rides and so much more!

Primary Camps Include:

GRADES 4K – 5th NEW! Adventures in Nature
GRADES 6th – 8th NEW! Young Naturalists

Specialty Camps:

GRADES 4K – 2nd NEW! Naturally Gross!
GRADES 3rd – 5th Zoo Keeper
GRADES 6th – 8th ZooKeeper
GRADES 9th – 12th Animal Wellness
GRADES 9th – 12th NEW! Conservation Connections

Click Here For More Information or to Register

Camp Indian Springs

Camp Indian Springs is a summer day camp for kids ages 5-13 at Indian Springs School located on HWY 119. Campers will spend their summer engaged in on-campus activities including tennis, hiking, beach volleyball, gymnasium sports, outdoor sports, gardening and arts and crafts along with field trips such as bowling, movies, skating and more!

Summer at CIS begins May 29 and ends July 27 for 9 weeks of fun! camp is open Monday through Friday from 6:30AM – 6PM and is only closed on Wednesday, July 4, for the holiday.

For more information visit their site.

The Dance Foundation

Summer Day Camps are led by by caring, enthusiastic professional staff in our studios in Downtown Homewood. Early drop-off option is available for full-day camps. All campers should bring a lunch each day. Snacks provided for full-day campers. All campers receive a T-shirt.

Moving Together [12-24 month olds with a grown up] | $145
This class is especially for toddlers and their favorite grown up. Share this interactive movement and music class designed to enhance your child’s motor abilities and social skills, led by a creative team of dancer and musician.

Movement to Music [2-4 year olds] | $145
Movement to Music classes are an active and engaging introduction to dance for preschool age students. Live music, stories, songs and fun props help children move creatively, develop confidence, and build skills – coordination, concentration, rhythm, and more. (see site for session options)

GET Moving! Dance for Children with Special Needs [4-18 year olds] | $75 [Discounted tuition possible by support from the Alabama State Council on the Arts.

Ballet [entering Kindergarten or First Grade] | $145

Ballet [entering 5th grade and up] | $145

Adult Contemporary Dance | Drop-in $15/class

Summer Day Camps

Once Upon a Fairytale

Daily adventures from classic fairytales are inspired with a trunk filled with costumes and creative artifacts. Each day, campers dance, create art, and explore the day’s fairytale. 4K Camp fairytales include Cinderella, The Girl Who Wore Too Much, The Snow Queen. 5K Camp fairytales include Sleeping Beauty, Living Quan-Yin, Robin Hood, Twelve Dancing Princesses, Peter and the Wolf.

Adventures in Enchanted Lands

Use your imagination and create a mermaid story, let your hair down and dance with the trolls, and design your own unicorn horn. Each day is an adventure with magical creatures and creativity. Campers explore the theme each day through dance, art, and drama classes.

entering 1st – 3rd graders | M-F 9am-1pm | $180 | June 18-22

Once Upon a Ballet

The perfect camp for your budding ballerina! Campers will discover the familiar folktales of ballet and learn classical dance steps and gestures of famous characters. Make costume pieces, explore the use of props, and dance along with the traditional music of Giselle, The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Rodeo and Coppelia!

entering 1st – 3rd graders | M-F 9am-1pm | $180 | June 11-15

Dance Explorations

Explore the art of dance through technique in a variety of styles as well as lessons in dance history, sewing, music, and hair and makeup for the stage. Daily classes include Ballet, Modern Dance, and Choreography. The week ends with an informal showing for family and friends.

entering 3rd – 6th graders | M-F 9am-4pm | $245 | June 25-29

Theatre Explorations

Campers will use their imagination and creative skills to invent a whole new world with the elements of theatre. Theatre games, technique, and character work offer a creative week of building communication skills, teamwork and confidence. The week ends with an informal showing for family and friends.

entering 3rd – 6th graders | M-F 9am-4pm | $245 | June 25-29

For More Information or to Register, Visit their Website

Fresh Air Family

Gross Out Camps
This year we are offering multiple Gross Out Camps in Birmingham, at Birmingham Botanical Gardens, and at Ruffner Mountain Nature Center. For more information on what will be available at each location or to register, Click Here.

Hoover Sports Camps at the Finley Center

Hoover Met Complex Sports Camp is the perfect way for any young athlete to spend their summer! Sports Camp is designed for the athlete who enjoys a variety of sports and recreational games. Athletes are taught sport specific skills and given the opportunity to compete in a variety of sports such as basketball, flag football, soccer, volleyball and more, while also enjoying some favorite recreational games like capture the flag, dodgeball and kickball. Coaches will focus on skill instructional, sportsmanship, teamwork and most importantly, making sure camp is non-stop fun for everyone!

• Week 1 June 4-8 – All Sports (basketball, flag football, soccer, volleyball)
• Week 2 June 11-15 – Basketball (skill instruction, competitions, scrimmage games)
• Week 3 June 18-22 – All Sports (basketball, flag football, soccer, volleyball)
• Week 4 June 25-29 – Basketball (skill instruction, competition, scrimmage games)
• NO CAMP JULY 2-6
• Week 5 July 9-13 – Flag Football or Volleyball (athletes select one sport for the week)
• Week 6 July 16-20 – Soccer (drills and games will be played indoor and outdoor)
• Week 7 July 23-27 – All Sports (basketball, flag football, soccer, volleyball)

CLICK HERE to Register!

Kidcam Oak Mountain State Park

For campers entering Kindergarten through age 13, Kidcam Summer Day Camp thrives in the heart of Alabama’s Oak Mountain State Park.

Camp Director, Lissa Walker, says, “Kidcam at Oak Mountain is a very unique summer camp. Campers get to utilize the whole park for various activities. During the summer, you can find our campers on the trails exploring, swimming in the lake, visiting the petting farm, paddle boating or at the Wildlife center learning about native birds in Alabama.”

Kidcam offers 10 weeks of summer fun with all the best activities offered at Oak Mountain State Park. Full summer and weekly camp sessions are available online now for registration. Purchase only the weeks you need and build your summer around you!

Boating, Archery, Golfing, Petting Farm, Interactive Wildlife, Playgrounds, Sports Courts, Geocaching and Swimming will be a part of our weekly schedule.

Kidcam’s engaging weekly themes are action-packed with activities that promote fun, fitness, friendship, and creativity each week of camp. Kids Choice is the theme for summer 2018 allowing campers to choose between a variety of new programs, activities and challenges led by their camp counselors. Weekly schedules & field trips will be posted online in mid-March.

We will have morning drop off at a convenient location at the front of the park off of the 119 entrance at the Ranger Station, as well as a rotating schedule using the back entrance closer to 280. This will allow parents a more convenient in-and-out when dropping off their campers each morning. We will have access to 3 Shelby County vans to allow us easy transportation inside of the park. These will be driven by our adult staff members. Pickup location will vary based on the time of pickup, but these details will be known at the start of camp. It will range between the Ranger Station and the Main Park Office Building.

Our Home Base is the Oak Room near Main Park Office

For more info, visit their site
Open House, May 6th 2pm – 4pm

LJCC

Camp LJCC offers day camps to the entire Birmingham community for kids entering grades K-8. We offer camps 11 weeks of summer and most importantly, our camp has a “camp a la carte” system that allows you to plan your summer exactly as you wish – sign up for one week or all eleven. You can mix and match weeks with Day Camp, specialty and/or sport camps.

Camp LJCC Day Camps offer something for everyone! For more information or to register, visit their website.

Mason Music

Stars Preschool Music Camp
STARS Preschool Music Camp is the perfect way for your little ones to have a great time exploring musical concepts in a creative environment. Suggested for 3 to 5 year olds who are potty trained and ready for fun
that’s gonna be out-of-this-world!

June 11-15, 2018: Mountain Brook Studio
June 25-29, 2018: Cahaba Heights Studio
July 9-13, 2018: Bluff Park Studio
July 23-27, 2018: Greystone Studio

Mason Music Camp for Beginners
For students 6-9 years old who have little or no experience with music and may be wondering which instrument is right for them.

June 4-8, 2018: Bluff Park Studio
July 16-20, 2018: Mountain Brook Studio
July 30-Aug. 3, 2018: Cahaba Heights Studio
July 30 – Aug 3, 2018: Greystone Studio

Led Zepplin Rock Band Camp
In honor of the 50th Anniversary of Led Zeppelin, Mason Music is transforming our Rock Band Camp into a week-long celebration of the music created and inspired by the greatest rock band of all time. Ages 10-18

June 18-22, 2018: Cahaba Heights Studio

Over Drive
For students who have at least 2 years of experience on their instrument or have been to our Rock Band Camps or Rock Band League.

July 23-28, 2018: Cahaba Heights Studio

For information or to Register, visit their site.

McWane Science Center

A week of fun and learning awaits your child at McWane Science Center Summer Camp. Weekly camps June 5th through July 28th. There will be no camps the week of July 3th-7th.

All new this year: All camps for students entering 1st through 7th grade will be full day camps. Pre-K-Kindergarten will remain half day camps from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM.

4k – Kindergarten Morning Camps: Astro Tots, Prehistoric Pals, Storytime Science, Building Blocks, Deep Sea Blue, Geared Up, Trash to Treasure, Exploring the outdoors

1st and 2nd Grade Full Day Camps: Summer Safari, Fly me to the Moon, and Beyond, Junior Robotics, I, Spy, Paleontology Pandemonium, LEGO Lab, Junior Engineers, Creative Chemistry

3rd and 4th Grade Full Day Camps: Sailing the Seven Seas, Arts and Sciences, Sci Spies, Science at the Movies, Robot Roll Call, Forces of Nature, Design Challenge, Bits and Bytes.

5th – 7th Grade Full Day Camps: Theme Park Physics, Survivor Science, Natural Disasters, The Researchers, Engineering and Design, Robo Lab, Make It, Wizarding Academy

For More information or to Register for McWane Science Summer Camps visit their Website

Red Mountain Theatre Company

RMTC camps teach theatrical craft while providing performance opportunities for youth. The curriculum includes vocal, dance, and drama training and culminates in a staged performance, where students perform for live audiences.

Summer Blast Students Students learn a repertoire of musical theatre songs and dances during a weeklong workshop, culminating in a performance for family and friends. This opportunity is open (non-auditioned) to interested students ages 7-12.

For more information on the camps they offer, visit their website.

Samford Bulldogs Soccer Camp

Bulldog Soccer Camp at Samford University is designed to develop young players’ technical skills through a series of fun yet challenging activities. A low staff to-camper ratio ensures the staff’s ability to enhance the learning experience with detailed technical training, individualized coaching and game scenarios. Our Full-Day and Half-Day camps are open to boys and girls and we hope to see you this summer! The goal at Bulldog Soccer Camps are for players to leave camp with a better understanding of the game and with an improved skill level to strengthen future performances. Our camps are fun but instructive environments that are welcoming to players of all levels, from never touching a soccer ball to wanting to be the next Golden Boot winner. The campers get to cool off and enjoy the University pool (ages 8 & older), giant inflatable water slide (ages 8 & under) and summer treats all in a full summer’s day. Lunch, a water bottle and t-shirt are all included for full and half day camps. Any questions regarding camp information and registration details can be found at www.bulldogsoccercamp.com or contact Josie Rix at jrix@samford.edu.

Session 1:
June 11-14th

Session 2 :
June 18-21st

Full Day – $265, ages 6-13
Half Day – $230, ages 4-5

ID Camp : July 13-14th
GIRLS, ages 13-20, $225

*Bulldog Soccer Camps are open to any and all entrants limited only by age, gender, and availability.*

LUNCH, WATER BOTTLE & T-SHIRT INCLUDED FOR FULL AND HALF DAY CAMPS.

REGISTRATION AND MORE CAMP INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND AT www.bulldogsoccercamp.com

South City Theatre

The South City Theatre camp offers students a fun-filled program to help them develop:

Confidence, Imagination, Enthusiasm, Theatrical Skills, Vocal Ability, Self Esteem through the study of acting, singing, dance and more, students will work with professional performers and teachers to become better artists.

Tuition Cost for the two week camp is a low $325.00 (T-shirt included) of which $50 is non-refundable. Refunds are available up to two weeks prior to the start of camp.

Visit their website for more information or to register

StickAndStrum Academy

Opening Act: NO EXPERIENCE, INSTRUMENTS, OR PRACTICE NECESSARY!
Try out Guitar, Drums, Piano, and Bass and in a BAND setting!
We’ll get you rocking in no time.

Headliners: Now that you know how to play an instrument, learn to play with a BAND!
Headliners Camp is for students that have some experience and basic skills on their instrument.
Not sure if you’re ready? Fill out the form and we’ll let you know!

For more information or to register, visit the StickandStrum Website

Villager Yoga

Fit & fun, cool & calm, our summer camps are offered in-studio and at various locations around town. Through week-long camps, kids to find their inner and outer strength while being creative, expressing themselves and bonding with friends. Group exercises and games teach considerate peer interaction and leadership skills in a non-competitive environment. Each day, new yoga poses will be introduced around a theme and camp will include the thoughtful enjoyment of a healthy snack, group activity time, creative art project, mindful breathing, and visualization exercises and relaxation. We also offer specialty themed camps, see details and links below.

SPA YOGA CAMPS, for ages 5+

Treat yourself to a day at Spa Camp, where we will have fun, relax and make ourselves simply FEEL GOOD! Each day will begin with yoga and meditative activities, followed by making a healthy snack (think smoothies and yogurt parfaits) and a spa treatment. Spa treatments will include massages, using scrubs with essential oils, plus we will make take home accessories to help you bring your calm home!

June 11 – 15, 9 am – 12 pm at Highlands School
June 18 – 22, 9 am – 1 pm at Birmingham Botanical Gardens
June 25 – 29, 9 am – 12 pm at Villager Yoga
in-studio camp is single day ($44) or week long ($195). Register for Villager Yoga camp.
Offsite camps are week long enrollments, register with the organizer at links above.

GROWING THROUGH YOGA CAMPS, for ages 4+

Kids will find their inner and outer strength while being creative, expressing themselves and bonding with friends. Group exercises and games teach considerate peer interaction and leadership skills in a non-competitive environment. Each day, new yoga poses will be introduced around a theme and camp will include the thoughtful enjoyment of a healthy snack, group activity time, creative art project, mindful breathing, and visualization exercises and relaxation.

July 16 – 20, 9 am – 12 pm at Highlands School
July 23 – 27, 9 am – 1 pm at Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Offsite camps are week long enrollments, register with the organizer at links above.

SUPER U MINI-CAMP SESSIONS, for ages 4+
Introduce your child to his/her Super-Self. At this camp, we will find our own superhero identity, feeling powerful as we:
-Do Yoga for a strong body
– Meditate for a strong mind
-Create a personalized Power Pose & Mighty Mantra
-Design a Super Symbol shirt
-Make a Superpower Mist
-Make a Super Smoothie

Tuesday, July 3, 9 am – 12 pm at Villager Yoga
Tuesday, July 10, 9 am – 12 pm at Villager Yoga
in-studio camp is single day ($44). Register

YOGA FOR THE YOUTH ATHLETE MINI-CAMP SESSIONS
For ages 10 – 17 yrs

Yoga is a proven compliment to sports and athletic activities, providing disciplined conditioning for the body, mind and spirit. This camp will focus on teaching young athletes to become more in-tune with their bodies as we focus on proper alignment and recognizing the differences of discomfort versus pain in poses and sequences to help build strength, flexibility and balance. Our breathing and mindfulness exercises will focus on self-soothing tools to provide calm and focus, helpful in alleviating pre/mid game anxiety and mid/post-game frustration. Other areas of focus will include confidence building, teamwork and energy-boosting, which will be addressed in group activities and thoughtful snacks.
Each day will center on a specific focus and will include:
1) Yoga Practice
2) Healthy snack
3) Team building activity
4) Breathing and mindfulness exercises

July 9 – 11, 1:00 – 4:00 pm at Villager Yoga
in-studio camp is single day ($44) or all 3 days ($115). Register

YMCA Summer Camps

There is no place like Y Day Camp. A home away from home where your children laugh, learn, explore and grow in the outdoors while creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime. Kids discover not just the wonders of day camp but the joy of exploring their unique traits, talents and interests and the power of sharing their strengths and skills to benefit the group. That’s why more than 1900 kids in the Birmingham area attend the Y’s summer day camps – to belong, achieve and build relationships.

For more information on all of their camps and locations.. Visit the YMCA Website

Friday Five: Top Picks for Weekend Fun April 13th – April 15th

Posted on Friday, April 13, 2018 by Angie

Lots of fan happening around the ‘Ham this weekend! We’re excited to be able to add the Birmingham Barons back to our Friday Fives as they’ve opened their season this week! Thomas the Tank Engine is in town for a while and spring fun is heating up at the Birmingham Zoo! Happy Weekend!

Day out with Thomas at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

Fri April 13, 2018 9:45 am, 10:30 am, 11:15 am, noon, 12:45 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:15 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:45 pm
Sat April 14, 2018 9:00 am, 9:45 am, 10:30 am, 11:15 am, noon, 12:45 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:15 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:45 pm, 4:30 pm
Sun April 15, 2018 9:45 am, 10:30 am, 11:15 am, noon, 12:45 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:15 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:45 pm
Sat April 21, 2018 9:00 am, 9:45 am, 10:30 am, 11:15 am, noon, 12:45 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:15 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:45 pm, 4:30 pm
Sun April 22 ,2018 9:45 am, 10:30 am, 11:15 am, noon, 12:45 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:15 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:45 pm

Birmingham Barons at Regions Field

V. Montgomery Biscuits

Friday, 7:05pm
Saturday, 6:30pm
Sunday, 3pm

Farm Day at the Birmingham Zoo

Saturday 10am – 2pm

Fossil Hunt by Fresh Air Family – Union Chapel Mine

Join Fresh Air Family at one of the world’s most important fossil sites, so important, it may rewrite history! This site is so rich in fossils that paleontologists can study the behavior and populations of ancient creatures who pre-date the dinosaurs. One of our Moms found a fossil of museum quality –otherwise, you can keep your treasured finds.

Saturday, 9am and 1pm

Hogwarts Express at Homewood Public Library

Join us as we delve into a different Harry Potter book each month through crafts, snacks and activities. In April, we will recreate fun from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. K-7th grade.

Sunday, 3:30pm

Our Sponsor:

Earth Day at the Gardens

Posted on Thursday, April 12, 2018 by Angie

Earth Day is coming, celebrate at the Botanical Gardens!

As one of the top 5 states for Biodiversity, Alabama’s Green Spaces are as inspiring as they are beautiful thanks to our warm, moist climate and the geological diversity of our state. Birmingham alone is the home to 110 city operated parks, and one public garden: Birmingham Botanical Gardens. It’s also home to another dozen private and publicly held parks and nature preserves that make the Magic City a majestic site for nature lovers. Join us at the Gardens as we celebrate our local Green Spaces, learn how to protect them, and the different activities we can enjoy with our family and friends.

Featured exhibit: Bib & Tucker Sew Op’s 2018 March Quilt

The mission of Bib & Tucker Sew Op is to cultivate skills and community for those who sew or want to sew (ages 9-99) where everyone can be both a teacher and a student. One dream of the Sew-Op is to facilitate a sewing-based cottage industry that provides income and flexible working conditions for women who head their households. Bib & Tucker is a 501c3 non-profit organization. We are funded through grants and charitable contributions. Make a donation today!

March Quilt project History In 2015, Bib & Tucker Sew-Op partnered with UAB’s Department of Art & Art History and the Birmingham Museum of Art to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery marches through open sewing sessions that yielded 461 quilt blocks. Sew-Op members stitched the blocks together and made three quilts which hung at the Selma Public Library and the Alabama Department of Archives in Montgomery during the anniversary. Due to an overwhelmingly positive response, collaborators agreed that it should become an annual project. Each year, Bib & Tucker members choose a civil or human rights theme and facilitate open sewing sessions and discussion. During these sessions, community members create quilt blocks that express personal feelings about the theme. Bib & Tucker members then stitch the blocks into quilts that are exhibited in tandem with a relevant anniversary or day of recognition. For more information or to see photos from years past, like and follow The March Quilts on Facebook.

YEAR 4 (2018): Environmental Justice and Awareness (Think, NATURE, in all her glory) This year, we decided to expand the focus. We believe that everyone should have access to our natural spaces and we are excited by the projects happening in our city and around the country and world that expand this access. From urban greenways to gardens that cultivate native species; from recycling centers and sustainable energy, we encourage participants to address topics that fall under the umbrella of Environmental Justice for Mother Earth. We’re calling all native species enthusiasts – recycling wonks – National Park advocates and Urban greenway trailblazers to join us in making this year of The March Quilts the best year ever.

The event is free to the public!

Indy Grand Prix of Alabama

Posted on Tuesday, April 10, 2018 by Angie

An action packed IndyCar weekend featuring 10 races over 3 days and some of the biggest names on the circuit.

Beyond the 2.38-mile road course, there’s fun for everyone including the Surgere Fan Zone, KAMTEK Garage, Wine Down with Indy, Monster Energy KSFMX Freestyle Motocross Show, Bud’s Best ferris wheel, autograph opportunities, and much more!

As part of this weekend, Actor, Producer and Alabama native, Channing Tatum, will serve as the Grand Marshal.

Three-Day general admission $69
Friday general admission $15
Saturday general admission $29
Sunday general admission $39

Ticket upgrades and camping available.

Contact: 877.332.7804

Official Website