? Dangerous Gummies On The Rise + YMCA Offers Free Lifeguard Training
Hello, hello. It’s me, Miranda Fraraccio, your host of the Birmingham Patch newsletter — here to explain all the most important things happening in town.
Also, FYI: I wanted to let you know that Patch is looking for a local writer and entrepreneur to take the helm of the Birmingham Patch newsletter and make it their own. We want to pass the torch to someone truly local and in-the-know to write about Birmingham long term. So if you’re interested in earning extra income while making this newsletter a more valuable resource for your neighbors, learn more and apply here.
But first, today’s weather:
Mostly sunny. High: 57 Low: 32.
?️ Looking to differentiate yourself from other real estate agents in Birmingham? Partner with the Birmingham Patch and gain access to a targeted, engaged audience through our premium newsletter sponsorships. Click here to learn more.
Here are the top 3 stories in Birmingham today:
- Between the warmer weather and the upcoming spring break holidays, Alabama’s national parks are sure to be full. However, a spokesperson for Alabama State Parks warns park-goers to exercise caution this spring when hiking to look out for venomous snakes. Though there have been incidents of people getting bit by snakes, they will leave you alone if you follow proper precautions. Try to avoid contact and watch where you’re stepping, and lways have a charged cell phone just in case. For more tips, visit the link here. (Alabama’s News Leader)
- The Alabama Poison Information Center warns Alabama residents that dangerous gummy products are on the rise in the state. Last month, more than a dozen Birmingham middle schoolers got sick from ingesting an unknown type of candy. According to the Information Center, over 16,000 calls last year involved children under six being exposed to something toxic. The Poison Information Center can be reached at 1-800-222-1222 for more information for children of all ages. (WBRC)
- Do you want a summer job as a lifeguard? The YMCA of Greater Birmingham is offering free lifeguard training for 1,500 people this summer in response to a national lifeguard shortage. Training typically costs between $200-400, but for 1,500 lifeguards older than 15, it will be completely free. The YMCA has a variety of days and times available for training, so you can choose what works best for your schedule. For more information, click here. (WBRC)
Today in Birmingham:
- Tiny Book Of The Month Club At Birmingham Public Library (9:00 AM)
- Taxes With AARP At Birmingham Public Library (9:00 AM)
- Crafty Monday & Happy Hour At Saw’s Juke Joint (11:00 AM)
From my notebook:
- It’s no secret: Birmingham takes food very seriously. Several food festivals this spring reflect the metro area’s longstanding cultural and religious diversity. (Yellow Hammer News)
- The Birmingham Police Department’s Community Outreach and Public Education Division will be hosting a Community Police Academy class to enhance awareness and allow community members to learn more about BPD. The academy class will be a 10-week program starting Apr. 4! To register, contact the COPE Division at (205)933-4175 or by email at bpdcope@birminghamal.gov. (Birmingham Police via Facebook)
- Come out to Moe’s BBQ in Lakeview on Wednesday, Mar. 22, from 6-9 p.m. for the first Greater Birmingham Humane Society Young Professional Board’s “Sips for Strays” of the year! There will be Tito’s Drink Specials featured, with a portion of those drink sales going back to GBHS. (Greater Birmingham Humane Society via Facebook)
More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!
Featured events:
Thanks for following along and staying informed. I’ll see you around!
— Miranda Fraraccio
About me: Miranda Fraraccio is a staff writer for content creation agency Lightning Media Partners. She is a graduate of the University of Rhode Island, where she earned degrees in Writing & Rhetoric and Communication Studies. In her free time, you can find her traveling, drinking tea, or practicing film photography.
