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Volume 14 Number 9
Columns 4 Publisher’s Note Lynn Knighton
Which School Is Best?
Your Fitness Journey
A three-step strategy to help you find the right fit for your family.
Success depends largely on following these three steps!
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8 Kids Say the Wisest Things Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA
15 Kids Health Watch Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
46 Tweens, Teens and Screens Kristi Bush, LSW
Education Resources
Career/tech schools, speech therapy, ACT/SAT prep, and more.
Mid-Year School Blues Ideas to help your elementary child finish the year strong.
56 Dave Says Dave Ramsey
Departments On The Cover Ava Estelle Cocke (17), daughter of Angela and John Cocke and sister to Celia (14). She is the granddaughter of John and Barbara Cocke and Gene and JoAnn Broadus. Ava is a junior Faculty Honor Roll student at St. Michael Catholic High School and serves as a student ambassador and member of the Sailing Team. Elected by her peers, she is a team captain and the 2021 vice commodore for the Fairhope Yacht Club’s (FYC) Junior Program and is an accomplished c-420 US Sailor in national regattas in Miami, New York, and Massachusetts. Additionally, Ava is a 2021 Dogwood Trail Court Member and was recently selected to participate in the Disney Dreamers Academy. Actively involved in St. Lawrence Catholic Church, she enjoys working with the VBS program. Ava hopes to sail collegiately and would like to study historical building preservation and design engineering.
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Bits and Pieces 16
School Bits 44
Book Reviews 50
Family Calendar
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Publisher’sNote The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source
So, how are your New Year’s resolutions coming? To be honest with you, my resolution to get back into my fitness routine has been slow going. I have been really frustrated with myself these last few weeks. I just could not understand why I started and stuck to a fitness routine a few years ago, but was now finding it hard to get back in that groove. I mainly blame the disruption of 2020 for throwing me off my routine, but there is no excuse for not having gotten back to it at this point. So what was different in 2018 that provided me with more motivation and success? It was not until I read Pam Moore’s, Every Successful Fitness Journey Starts With These Three Steps, that I was able to reflect back and see exactly why I had success before. In my previous attempt, I had unconsciously implemented all three of Pam’s steps, but this time I had neglected one step due to a change in my morning routine. I won’t spoil the article by going into more detail, but I can speak from experience when I tell you that these steps worked for me. So, if you are struggling to get into your fitness groove, I highly encourage you to turn to page 32 and pay special attention to Step One. Just like having personal resolutions, Eastern Shore Parents is always looking for ways to improve the information we put together for each issue. Over the last couple of years I have become increasingly aware of some of the incredible educational resources available in our area. And since we are all getting ready to register for the 2022-23 school year we thought we would share some of these resources with you. For example, did you know that the Baldwin County Public School system offers programs like International Baccalaureate® (IB), Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment classes where high school students can possibly earn college credit? There are also numerous career and technical opportunities available like Health Sciences, Culinary Arts, Welding, Graphic Design and more! Not only are we fortunate here in Baldwin County to have some excellent public schools, there are also some amazing private schools if that is a better fit for your family. Maybe it is your desire to provide your child with an education that is grounded in a religious worldview. Or, possibly, you prefer smaller class sizes or a school that can tailor lessons to your child’s individual learning patterns. Maybe you are ready to make the commitment to homeschool. Whatever your family’s desired education approach is, there are many outstanding choices available locally. If you find yourself wanting to explore your school options, I encourage you to flip over to page 36 where you will find Heidi Smith Leudtke’s article, A Three-Step Strategy to Choosing a School. Next you can flip over to page 38 where you will find the Education Resources Guide. This guide not only includes local school options, but also includes a full list of tutors, ACT/SAT prep opportunities, and therapists who offer handwriting, speech, language, and reading help. If you know of an education resource that has not been listed, please let us know, so we can add it to our digital issue and next year’s guide. We do hope you find this new Education Issue both helpful and entertaining. Wishing you all a wonderful February!
Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Christa Weinberg Contributing Writers
Kristi Bush, LSW Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA Sarah Lyons Pam Moore Dave Ramsey Robert L. Rux, M.D. Heidi Leudtke Smith, PhD
Cover Photography Jenn Glies Photography www.jenngliesphotography.com
President Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com Advertising Opportunities Lynn Knighton ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099 Ad Design Tim Welch
Visit us online at www.easternshoreparents.com
Lynn
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Eastern Shore Parents I February 2022
Eastern Shore Parents Magazine, is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant, role in our community. Eastern Shore Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
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Eastern Shore Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 374, Montrose, Alabama, 36559. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 929-2099. Eastern Shore Parents is copyrighted 2022 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Eastern Shore Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
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BAYSIDE ACADEMY
FUTURE ADMIRALS OPEN HOUSE At the heart of the Bayside experience, you will find our students and teachers exploring the world around them in an environment that educates and develops the whole student. For more information about Bayside Academy, contact our Admissions Office at 251.338.6446 or admissions@baysideacademy.org.
Monday, February 7, 2022 9:00 a.m. Open House for Grades PK3-12
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303 Dryer Ave. Daphne, AL 36526 | 251.338.6300 | www.baysideacademy.org 7
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by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA
“Who Made Communication So Hard?” (Part 2: Ages 7-10) “Who made communication so hard?” Such a wise question from a child. I simply responded, “Everyone sweet girl, everyone.” Last month, I wrote about how to communicate effectively with children from birth through age 6. This month we will explore how to best communicate with children 7 through 10 years of age. If I could define this age in one word it would “explorers”. The ability to solve problems, comprehend cause and effect, and take responsibility for their actions emerge in this stage of life. These children are fully excited by the world around them and want to experience all of it. The primary role of parents in this stage is to “encourage”. It is vital for you to encourage (without judgement) their exploration of interests, friends, and extra-curricular activities. Sadly, the emotional immaturity and sensitivity at this age too often leave children feeling discouraged. I hope these four simple rules will help you as you navigate this tight rope.
First, watch your body language. Make sure you are affirming with your face, body, and words. When possible, look at your child when they are talking to you and give her all of your attention. Make sure you devote a portion of each day to this. Most parents do this at bedtime, but find what works best for you and your family. Second, show empathy. Empathy is when you put yourself in another person’s shoes. Remind yourself what it was like to be 8 years old. When your parents would not let play outside after dark or forced you to visit family instead of going to your best friend’s birthday party. You can empathize with your child’s frustration without giving into it. One of the best ways to empathize is to tell your child a story from your own childhood so they know they are not alone. Third, delay correction. Resist the urge to resolve the situation and let your child present possible solutions. You will be pleasantly surprised by some of his solutions. Also, you will be meeting your child right where he is developing new skills.
Fourth, avoid shaming language at all costs. When people feel shame, they believe they are inherently broken. Be careful to address your child’s behavior without attacking her as a person. Instead of, “You are so clumsy!” when your child spills her drink say, “You need to be more careful carrying your drink.” It is also essential for parents to not shame others. For example, if you see a man yelling at a cashier, talk to your children about how he is handling his anger inappropriately instead of simply saying, “He is a really mean man.” My favorite way to communicate challenging lessons effectively with children at this stage is through stories. Intentionally watch movies, read books, and discuss people who overcame difficult situations and failures. Especially if you can find a story that relates to specific areas where your child needs to grow as a person. Stories of other people allow children to learn while bypassing their emotional sensitivities and insecurities. The most important thing to remember is that you cannot stop being their biggest cheerleader when they become discouraged. You can always find something to brag about. If your child is the least athletic person on the field, brag about him being the nicest in the dugout. If your child falls at the dance recital, reward her for getting up and trying again. Do whatever you can to constantly encourage them to continue exploring. Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.
Fall in love with your smile and with yourself.
You deserve it! Change your smile, change your world! 251.928.9292 www.stricklandorthodontics.com
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8th Annual "Joy of Life" Mardi Gras Ball
The 8th Annual Wind Creek Hospitality "Joy of Life" Mardi Gras Ball benefiting St. Jude Children's Research Hospital will take place on Saturday, February 5. The 2022 gala will present St. Jude patients as King and Queen. The ball will showcase the culinary skills of Mobile's most amazing chefs and restaurants, a live and silent auction, as well as great musical entertainment all while raising funds for the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Please visit https://joyoflifegulfcoast. org/events/joy-of-life-mardi-gras-ball-2022/ for more information.
Lip Sync Battle
Fuse Project is bringing the ultimate Lip Sync Battle to Downtown Mobile on Thursday, February 3. Select teams will compete before a panel of "celebrity" judges and peers for the chance to take home the trophy and earn bragging rights. Teams will be made up of community members, not professionals, who will be preparing their best moves and costumes in the weeks leading up to the competition. The best part is, there is no risk of revealing you are actually tone-deaf when every pitch is guaranteed to be perfect! There will be live entertainment and unique auction items up for grabs between performances. Fuse Project’s Lip Sync Battle brings the most fun and unforgettable fundraising experience to Alabama’s Gulf Coast! Please visit https://lipsync.fuseproject.org/ for more information.
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Project Prom 2022
Looking for a fun morning out with your friends? Maybe a glam morning with Mom? The Junior Auxiliary of the Eastern Shore invites everyone to come play dress up with us at Project Prom! Have a ball trying on dresses, shoes, purses and even accessories. The best part is, if you find something you love, you can take it home with you at no cost! Project Prom will be held February 19, from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM at Fairhope High School. Do you have a dress, shoes, purses or other accessories you would like to donate to this fun event? Or maybe even have a service like up-dos, manicures, or pedicures that you would like to donate? Donations are being accepted through February 16. Donations can be dropped off at Thompson Animal Hospital off 181 in Fairhope or email jaesforkids@ gmail.com and we can arrange a pickup! To check out some of the fun fashions that can be found this year at Project Prom check out their Insta-ProjectPromJAEasternShore.
21st Annual Chili for Charity Event for Ecumenical Ministries Inc.
This year’s Annual Chili for Charity event cook-off will be held at Halstead Amphitheater in Downtown Fairhope on Saturday, February 12 from 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM. This festival has something for everyone: chili sampling; music by Blind Dog Mike and Robert Sully; bake sale, inflatables, balloon artistry, face painting, animal ambassadors from Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, and a mechanical bull ride for all ages. Adult admission is $12.50 in advance online at eventbrite.com, or $15 at the gate. Children 12 and under are free. www.baldwinemi.org
Baldwin County Career Expo
The Baldwin Connect Career Expo will be February 15th & 16th at the Robertsdale Coliseum,19477 Fairground Rd., Robertsdale, AL. This expo is open to students and adults. Students attending the expo should have a resume and/or may fill out applications for summer internships and after school jobs. General public is encouraged to bring a resume for straight-to-work opportunities. Schedule: February 15, 9 AM – 3 PM - 10th graders; February 15, 3 PM – 5 PM Open to the public for any student or adult job seekers; February 16, 9 AM – 3 PM - 12th graders. Eastern Shore Parents I February 2022
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Swamp Boat Parade Planned in Support of Search & Rescue
North Baldwin Sheriff’s Search & Rescue will hold its Order of the Swamp Boat Float Parade at 1 PM Saturday, Feb. 26, in downtown Bay Minette. The event will carry a “Down in the Delta” theme and boats should be decorated accordingly. Each boat float must also include two walkers to secure crowd safety. The registration fee is $50 and proceeds will go to support the work of the Search & Rescue program. For more details, or to register an entry, call Danny Mitchem at 25-454-0453 or James Phillips at 251-209-9662.
Come Run with Chase the Gator on the Causeway!
The Spanish Fort Education Enrichment Foundation (SFEEF) is excited to announce Tameron Honda as the Title Sponsor of the 2022 Gator Chase NEW 10K, 5K Race and 1-Mile Fun Run to be held Saturday, February 19. Race starts at 8 AM for the 10K, 8:10 5K and 9:30 AM for the Fun Run. The race will begin at Five Rivers on the Causeway. Participants can register online @ eventbrite. com or pick up forms for same day registration at McCoy Outdoor in Mobile, Run-N-Tri in Mobile; and Running Wild in Fairhope until noon on Thursday Feb 17th. Online fees for preregistration by 2/17/22: 10K Adults: $30, 10K Students: $25, 5K Adults: $20, 5K Students: $16, Fun Run: $14. Awards ceremony after party, McMurphy KidsZone, food and more! 11
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AARF Warrior Challenge
Join the American Autism & Rehabilitation Foundation as we kick off our next health & wellness challenge with proceeds benefitting our local special needs community. The Warrior Challenge will take place from March 1 – 31, 2022 and can be completed virtually from anywhere across the USA. Choose to run or walk 31, 65 or 100 miles during the month of March, tracking your miles weekly for a chance to win some great prizes! Once you register online, you will receive an email inviting you to join our private Facebook group, keeping you connected to your fellow athletes. Each registration includes a t-shirt and bragging rights – Adults $35 (includes shipping); Kids (12 & under) $15. As a bonus to this year’s event, those of you who live locally can get some of your steps in by participating in the Muddy Warrior Challenge being held on Saturday, March 5, 2022 at Graham Creek Nature Preserve in Foley, where warriors will hit the terrain and overcome obstacles in a 5k run through the mud. The event will also include a Kids Fun Run and a Victory Celebration for the entire family. To register online visit https://register.chronotrack.com/r/64720 For more information or sponsorship opportunities available contact Christy Kelley Wilson at christyk@americanautismcenter.org.
Sixth Annual SPOTLIGHT Talent Showcase
The Sixth Annual Gulf Coast Spotlight Talent Showcase, hosted by Distinguished Young Women, will return to an in-person showcase on Sunday, March 13! After two years of digital showcases, students have will perform at Murphy High School for a chance to earn funds for the arts programs at their schools. All applications and audition videos are due March 12, 2021. All applications are due by February 11. The program was launched in 2017 as an effort to shine a light on talented young performers in Mobile and Baldwin counties, encourage and reward their pursuits and give funds to local schools to support arts programs, thereby reaching more children in the Gulf Coast region. Local students in grades 1-12 will compete in four divisions. The winners in each division will be given a $500 gift made in their name to an arts program at their school. For more information on SPOTLIGHT, visit GulfCoastSpotlight.com or contact Tara Principe at Tara@DistinguishedYW.org.
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Fairhope Cancer Survivor Honored Through 17th Annual Tee Off Fore A Cure Weekend
The 17th annual Tee Off Fore A Cure kicks off on March 4, with a weekend of Margaritaville-themed events designed to honor Fairhope cancer survivor Frances Grace Hirs. The pretournament gala begins at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, March 4 at Lakewood Golf Club (1 Grand Blvd.). On Saturday morning, golfers will gather for the tournament (9 AM) and ninth annual Golf Ball Drop at The Lakewood Club’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Admission to Friday’s pre-party is complimentary to participating golfers, donors, sponsors, volunteers and their guests. Admission for all other attendees is $25 per person and includes access to the Margaritaville-style soireé, as well as an exclusive silent auction. Registration fees are $200 per golfer. Gracie’s Golf Ball Drop will take place immediately following the tournament. The first ball in or closest to the hole will win 25% of the proceeds or up to $5,000. Participants do not have to be present to win and anyone may purchase golf balls through the event website below. For more details or to register for the golf tournament, contact the Children’s of Alabama Gulf Coast office at 251-610-4969 or visit give.childrensal.org/teeoff.
34th Annual Mayor’s Golf Tournament
The Annual Mayor’s Golf Tournament four-person scramble, will be held on March 25, 2022 at the Quail Creek Golf Course. Proceeds are distributed by Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation (FEEF) directly back into Fairhope’s five public schools. Funds raised through this event allow FEEF to continue to provide the following programs: • Award winning - Pelican’s Nest Science Lab • STEAM learning opportunities for Fairhope East, West Elementary, and J. Larry Newton students • Choral, piano, and guitar opportunities at Fairhope Middle • Resources for the art, choral, dance, band classes, and engineering tools at Fairhope High • Teacher Classroom Grants (K-12) for STEAM initiatives. Check out feefonline.org for more information. Thank you to the sponsors of the 33rd Annual Mayor’s Golf Tournament for raising over $50,000 for the Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation (FEEF). Pictured, Left to right Betsy Duggar FEEF Board Member, Mike Foley Golf Tournament co-chair, Bobby Hall Director of Golf Operations Quail Creek Golf Course, Fairhope Mayor Sherry Sullivan, Jake Defee tournament co-chair, Meg Lowry FEEF executive director, and Davis Brock FEEF Board Chairman.
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• Riding - English, Western, and Jumping • Swimming • Heated Pool • Ropes Course • Climbing Tower • Outdoor Nature Skills • Sports • Soccer • Basketball
inning, w rd a w a n a n o t Don’t miss ou mp for your ca d re te n ce ts ri Ch mmer! daughter this Su yea
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• Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance
On Top of Lookout Mountain in Historic Mentone, Alabama
Best of Parenting WINNER 10
• Beach Volleyball
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Susan & Larry Hooks, Owners & Directors Donna Bares, Assistant Director
800-882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com 13
• Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program • Campfires every night • Optional trips & more!
REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! Choose from 1- and 2-week Sessions and Mother-Daughter Weekends!
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K 19th Annual Mystic Mutts of Revelry Parade
The 19th annual Mystic Mutts of Revelry parade benefiting The Haven for Animals, Fairhope’s No-Kill Animal Shelter, will be held on February 19th. The walking parade begins and ends at Fairhoper’s park in downtown Fairhope. This year’s theme is “Pawjama Party.” Both humans and their pets are encouraged to wear pajamas to the event. The parade will begin at 1:00 PM from the park located on the corner of S. Church Street and Morphy Avenue. For complete event details including the downtown parade route and pre-registration link, visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ mysticmuttsofrevelry. All pets registered before February 5th will be eligible for the drawing that will determine which mutts will be King and Queen for a day. Extra drawing chances may be purchased on the registration page. Parade passes are $20 per mutt and $15 per human over age 12, $10 for 2 – 12 and free under 2. Registration and family-friendly festivities will begin at 12:00 PM on parade day in Fairhoper’s Community Park. Thank you to the 2022 MMOR Presenting Sponsor, McSherry’s Irish Pub. Proceeds from the parade provide vet care, vaccinations, medicine, food and much more for homeless animals.
2022 Mobile Diabetes Walk for Camp Seale Harris
Join us at USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park for the 2022 Mobile Walk for Camp Seale Harris on March 13. The walk for Camp Seale Harris is a family-friendly Walk/Run raising awareness of diabetes, and an opportunity for participant fundraising efforts to make it possible for kids to attend Camp Seale Harris for kids and families living with diabetes. You can register yourself, or a team, for the WALK, and invite friends, family, and co-workers to join your effort by donating to your WALK page. For more information on building a team, donating, or WALK sponsorships for your family, contact us at (205) 402-0415.
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
The Flu Vaccine
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Hey guys! Well, here we are in 2022 and the Covid pandemic is still here! But one thing we have seen in addition to Covid, strep throat and the crud is the flu! Let’s review the flu vaccine and how it may affect your family this year. The flu shot is recommended for any child aged 6 months to 19 years and for any adult persons aged >19 years; women who will be pregnant during the influenza season; persons who have chronic pulmonary (including asthma), cardiovascular, renal, hepatic, hematological or metabolic disorders (including diabetes mellitus); persons who have immunosuppression (caused by medications or by HIV); persons who have any neurological condition that can compromise respiratory function or the handling of respiratory secretions or that can increase the risk for aspiration; residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities; health-care personnel; household contacts and caregivers of children aged <5 years and adults aged >50 years, with particular emphasis on vaccinating contacts of children aged <6 months; and, household contacts and caregivers of persons with medical conditions that put them at high risk for severe complications from influenza (cdc.gov).
So basically, anybody over 6 months of age and anyone who takes care of a child, especially under 6 months old, should get the vaccine. So, what are your options? The most common is the flu shot which is approved for 6 months and above. There is also an intranasal spray. This is not as commonly used and has lots of restrictions. Your best bet is to talk to your healthcare provider about the flu vaccine and what might be right for you. The last thing to talk about is the reasons why people elect to not get vaccinated. Of course, the choice is yours, but I really encourage my parents to get vaccinated, especially if they have children under 6 months of age. While an adult might claim “I never had the flu shot and I’ve never had the flu!”, anything is possible and you might be putting your child at risk. The other question I hear frequently is about the flu vaccine not working. The flu vaccine each year is composed of the flu strains that are predicted to be the most common culprits for the disease. Unfortunately, since the vaccine cannot contain every possible strain, there have been years where the vaccine wasn’t as effective as past years. Every year, there are a few patients who received the flu shot, but still got the
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flu. But we have had a lot more with the flu who did not have the vaccine at all! However, it was interesting that people who did receive the flu vaccine and still got the flu had significantly less symptoms and serious complications than those who did not receive the vaccine. And, last, but not least, you cannot get the flu from the flu shot! So, I encourage you all to go to www. cdc.gov/flu and check out the numerous links about flu symptoms, flu treatments and medications. Never hesitate to talk to your local healthcare provider about this or any other topic and remember- flu shots are safe and do work! Flu shots are already at doctor’s offices now, so call and get fixed up today! And, remember to wash your hands.
Robert L. Rux, M.D. is a Board Certified Pediatrician at Magnolia Springs Pediatrics. Originally from Mobile, he attended medical school at The University of Alabama School of Medicine (UAB) and completed residency at The Children’s Hospital of Alabama (UAB). He is married to Jaime and has three children, Adler, Walker and Mary McAtee.
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Autauga County Schools Professional Development
Last month Fairhope East, Foley Elementary, and Robertsdale Elementary teacher leaders had the opportunity to attend the Cognia Alabama Conference 2022 -Innovate, Elevate, Transform! This professional development allowed them to learn more about the STEAM certification process!
Fairhope West ES Class Builds Yeti Trap
How to Catch a Yeti? Mrs. Cork’s class at Fairhope West Elementary used the engineering design process to create a trap for a yeti after listening to Mrs. Workman read the story “How to Catch a Yeti.?” Each team worked collaboratively with different materials to build traps for a yeti.
SFEEF’s “Girls Just Want to have Fun” Event
The SFEEF Spanish Fort Education Enrichment Foundation "Girls Just Want to have Fun" event raised $1000 for Care Closets in each school! Supplies were donated by attendees and we had the honor of presenting them to our counselors and principals. Thanks to our sponsors and community!
Fairhope HS Student Signs Fishing Team Scholarship
Fairhope High Fishing Team is proud of our Fairhope Fishing Team President Dustin Weinberg for signing with Blue Mountain College Bass Team! He is our first fishing team scholarship recipient. Please help us congratulate Dustin on his amazing accomplishment & wish him the best with his future at Blue Mountain!
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Fairhope East ES Class Visits Pelican’s Nest
Miss Rogers’ class from Fairhope East Elementary had a BLAST learning about animal adaptations at the Pelican’s Nest.
Robertsdale ES Student’s Art Selected for State Art Show
Congratulations to Robertsdale Elementary School's Kerrigan Chandler, one of our sixth grade students, on having her artwork chosen as one of 20 pieces of art that will represent Baldwin County at the State Superintendent Art Show. We are so very proud of you!
Snowy Day at Fairhope West ES
Miss Sumner’s class at Fairhope West Elementary celebrated the end of their snow unit. They followed a recipe to make pretend snow, painted melted snowmen, used describing words to write about snow, and ended the day with a CVC word snowball fight! What a crazy, fun filled, snowy day! 17
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Autauga County Schools
Christ the King Catholic Junior High Students Learn New Skills
The day before Thanksgiving break CTKCS Junior High students spent the morning learning a little differently. Volunteers were on hand to help our students try their hand at some new skills, from archery, to making bracelets, to learning chess, to throwing cast nets and more.
Bayside Academy Hosting Open House
Bayside Academy will host an open house for prospective families on Monday, February 7 at 9:00 a.m. Advance registration is required. Interested parents should contact the Admissions Office at admissions@ baysideacademy.org for more information or to register.
Flourish AL Visits Renaissance School!
Flourish is a nonprofit in Baldwin County that works to empower local teenage girls.
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Art Lessons with Ibi at Orange Beach ES
Ibi taught students to paint, my calabash (bowl), with watercolors and shared his book, Ibi’s Fireflies. We enjoyed his visit to OBES!
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Bayshore Christian School Wrestling
Bayshore Christian School wrestling team fought hard against top state-ranked teams! We are so proud of these boys! Congratulations on placing 8th in the state!
Daphne Middle School Students Use Ratios to Create Art
Gifted students at Daphne Middle have discovered that using ratios, scale, and proportion, made creating art masterpieces a lot easier!
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Daphne High School Nominations for 2021 BryantJordan Foundation Awards
Senior Tiana Smith is the 2021 DHS nominee for the Bryant-Jordan Achievement Award, and Senior Avery Bynum is the 2021 DHS nominee for the Bryant-Jordan Scholar-Athlete Award. These two young women are very active in life of our school, both athletically and academically; and they are a testament to the hard work, dedication, motivation, and drive it takes to excel.
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Autauga County Schools Christ the King Catholic School Bayshore Christian Bowling Team Congratulations to BCS Varsity Ladies Bowling team for winning our region Guest Vocations Speaker with a 10-2 record! They will be competing for South Regionals where they
Fr. Lito from the Shrine of the Holy Cross visited the CTKCS 5th grade class as the guest vocations speaker in December. Fr. Lito came to speak to the class about vocations, explaining what it means and how God calls each of us to our vocation in life.
will be up against the top 2 from regions 1-4. Let's go Lady Eagles!
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Spanish Fort HS Printmaking
Mrs. Jones’s art students learned the printmaking process recently! Art 1 and 2 focused on creating abstract designs inspired by artist Wassily Kandinsky. They turned their abstract drawings into Collagraph printing plates and then printed their images onto paper!
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Science at Florence B. Mathis ES
Ms. Dearborn’s students at Florence B Mathis Elementary School imprinted their own fossils in science!
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Palenontology at Fairhope East ES
Fairhope East Elementary third graders are digging into paleontology.
Foley ES Students Learn about Rural vs Urban Areas
Social Emotional Learning at Renaissance School
As a response to higher anxiety in students, Renaissance School implements Social Emotional Learning. This allows students to learn coping skills so they are able to reach their fullest potential.
Bayside Academy Seniors Sign Letters of Intent on National Signing Day
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In Alabama History students at Foley Elementary School learned about rural vs. urban areas. They did a great job following directions.
Daphne East Art Club
Nancy Raia from the Eastern Shore Art center visited the Daphne East Elementary 6th Grade Art Club! The students made some beautiful angels bookmarks for our friends at Westminster Village!
what we treat Minor Illnesses and Injuries Such as: Fever Allergies Cough and Colds Sprains and Strains Vomiting Sore Throat And Other Non-life-threatening Injuries
Bayside Academy had three seniors sign with Division I schools on National Signing Day today. NCAA Division I: Patrick Daves (track & field) University of Alabama; NAIA Division I: Ty Ferguson (soccer) University of Mobile; NCAA Division I PWO: Jay Loper (football) University of Alabama. We are so proud of these student-athletes. Pictured: Bayside Academy seniors Ty Ferguson, Jay Loper, and Patrick Daves on National Signing Day.
On-Site Services
STEAM at Fairhope East ES
X-Ray | Laboratory | Pharmacy
We are “Just Chillin” in STEAM. Our kindergarten students have been learning all about Arctic animals with an engineering design challenge: Design a den for a polar bear and her cubs. 21
Open Late and on Weekends WEEKDAYS 2pm-10pm WEEKENDS 8am-6pm www.childrensurgent.com (251) 318-2601 www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine
North Baldwin Tech Cosmetology Students Learn Facials
Autauga County Schools
Robertsdale ES Kindergartners Synergize
Mrs. Sawyer’s kindergarten class at Robertsdale Elementary School was synergizing in math! They put their heads together to practice their addition during a trashket ball competition!
Our North Baldwin Tech Cosmetology students are learning how to do facials in preparation for the program's upcoming Spa Day!
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Fairhope High Golf
Fairhope High Golf team member Brody Quattlebaum won The Lakewood Club Jr. Club Championship Boys 15 – 18 Division Championship.
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Autauga County Schools Toro 101 Initiative Contest at Spanish Fort HS
Congratulations to Spanish Fort High's Coach Hall and Mr. Sebastianai's classes for winning the Toro 101 Initiative contest for second quarter! Because of their hard work, they got to enjoy some extra free time this week and a fabulous lunch provided by Foosackly's Spanish Fort (Thank You Foo)!
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Fractions at Stapleton School
Who says fractions aren't fun? Certainly not the students in Mrs. Powell's class at Stapleton School who have been working together this week to help each other master fractions in fun and engaging ways. In one activity, students put their heads together to order fraction cards with unlike denominators from least to greatest. In another they played “war” with fraction flash cards. And, when in doubt, they built fraction towers and compared them.
Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com!
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Autauga County Schools Christ the King Catholic School Students Bayshore Cross Send Christmas Cheer Country Coach
CTKCS 8th grade students made Christmas cards for the crews of ships docking in the port of Mobile during December for the Stella Maris - The Apostleship of the Sea maritime ministry.
Named Coach of the Year
Congratulations to BCS Cross Country Head Coach Mrs. Ann-Marie Cook for being the 2021 USTFCCCA High School Boys Cross Country Coach of the Year. We are so proud of you!
Elberta Middle School Named National Winner in Art Challenge
Congratulations to Elberta Middle School 's Linda Hill and Alexandra Wood. Ms. Hill is the art instructor at Elberta Middle. The school has been selected as a National Winner once again for the second year in a row, winning 1st place in their division with the National Wyland Art Challenge Mural and Individual category. Eighth grader Alexandra Wood also won first place. The 8th grade advanced classes participated in the mural contest.
251-861-2141
disl.edu
102 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, Alabama 36528
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Project Outreach at Daphne HS
Project Outreach at Daphne High School kicked off #shooting2change2022! Thanks to Coach Perry, Coach Hotard, our awesome friends from Dance Without Limits, and everyone else who helped us promote #autismacceptance
Engineering at Spanish Fort HS
Spanish Fort High Coach Green’s engineering students were working on their power tool drag racers.
Mental Health Studies at Foley Middle School Foley Middle School Peer Helpers helped facilitate the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation P.A.T.H. lesson for January on Mental Health! After watching the video produced by the counselors, they discussed the difference between stress, anxiety and depression, and ways that stress can be managed. Abbi Ables, Calin Mueller, Dontavion Reese, and Alison Gonzalez are pictured in the classrooms
Math at Foley ES
Baldwin County Virtual ES
Teagan is a studious young man from Ms. Nagle's fifth-grade flock at Baldwin County Virtual Elementary School and he's all prepared for second semester!
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Foley Elementary students have been practicing our math skills by playing all kinds of fun, multiplication games, and we’ve been learning about energy in waves. We’ve learned how to make waves, about their wave length, amplitude, & frequency.
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Autauga County Schools Baldwin County Dual Enrolled Students Baldwin County HS Tigerettes Learn Electrical and Instrumentation Qualify for Nationals The Electrical & Instrumentation students at the Academy at Fairhope Airport will be learning the latest and most update software used in industry for these programmable systems. What an Awesome opportunity for our Baldwin County Dual Enrolled students.
The BCHS Tigerettes made their 2022 Competition debut at the NDA Bama Dance Championship! They placed 2nd in Varsity Kick ~ 4th in Varsity Game Day ~ 1st in Large Pom by default (as the only large varsity Pom team) but 2nd in combined Pom divisions. Today was a step in the right direction for the team as they progress through their competition season, because due to their placement and scoring from today, the team QUALIFIED for NDA NATIONALS!
Science at Renaissance School
Renaissance School Students enjoy learning about buoyancy!
Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com!
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Dogwood Trail Court
Congratulations to the 2022 Dogwood Trail Court! What an amazing night. Pictured left to right: Elle Caroline Blackman, Stella Sheldon, Renie Kennedy, Sarah Beth Kinsey, Gracie Foster, & Tommie-Lynn Smith!
Mako JV Girls Basketball Team Win County Championshiop Congratulations to the Mako JV Girls Basketball Baldwin County JV Champs!
Robertsdale HS Administrative Team Invited to Speak at Statewide Conference
At the request of the Alabama State Department of Education and Cognia (an international school accreditation organization), the administrative team at Robertsdale High School was invited to speak at a statewide conference held in Montgomery recently. The RHS team shared their approach to continuous improvement and their commitment to serving all students. The work of the RHS staff has led to increases in student performance on standardized assessments, AP exams, and the school’s overall graduation rate.
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Autauga County Schools Spanish Fort HS Wrestling
The Baldwin County Wrestling Tournament was held over the weekend and the Toros came in 2nd place as a team! A lot of kids stepped up to help lead the way. So proud of all that wrestled this weekend! 1st Place-Chase Lee 11th Grade; 1st Place-Gabe Warren-Gabe has been the tournament champion from 7th-12th grade. May be a feat that is never accomplished again! 1st Place-Dayton Blohm-10th Grade; 1st Place-Denver Persinger-12th Grade; 2nd Place-Aiden Arthur-9th Grade; 3rd place-Rob McFadden-9th Grade; 4th Place-Austin Arthur8th Grade; 4th Place-Brady Morrow-12th Grade.
Daphne HS Girls’ Wrestling
Congratulations to the Daphne Girls Wrestling Team! CHAMPIONS of the Wetumpka Invitational out of 14 girls teams! Individual Medalists: 100# Alanah Girard 1st; 107# Jenna MacDonalds 1st; 114# Sophia Chircop 2nd; 126# Hannah McNeese 3rd; 132# Kalyse Hill 1st; 138# Kimber Alford 2nd; 152# Sage Rosario 1st; 165# Kaylee Holder 1st.
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Autauga County Schools ASMS Launches Brand New Summer Camp to Support Job Growth in STEM
Conversations about employment in STEM are on the rise, and the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) is taking action. This year, the school will be launching the inaugural Alabama STEM Leadership Academy summer camp for rising Alabama 7th, 8th, and 9th graders. Participants will stay on the ASMS campus and gain access to advanced courses, leadership training, and community building facilitated by expert faculty members. Campers will engage in unique STEM courses like 3D Printing • ACT Prep • Cyberpatriots Basic Cyber Program Underwater Robotics • Labs of Doom • Geology of Minecraft • Laser Cutting 3D Modeling • Using Java • Rocketry • And Many More! In addition to foundational knowledge in their subjects, students will also learn the leadership soft skills needed to gravitate to the top of their fields one day. The program is also designed with interactive activities to help young learners build friendships and gain a support network for pursuing their goals in STEM. “Employment in STEM is on the rise, but recent research shows that the gaps for underrepresented populations are not going away soon. ASMS has an access mission to serve students from across Alabama from any background and to equip them for a bright future of leadership in STEM. The STEM Leadership Academy is our commitment to closing the gap and preparing students for impactful STEM careers even from a young age,” says ASMS Director of Admissions and Outreach, Mr. Ken Robinson. This is a great opportunity for students to pursue a premier STEM curriculum amidst a fun and engaging summer experience! Session 1 is from June 6 to 10, 2022, and Session 2 is from June 13 to 17, 2022. Registration and more information are available at https://www.asms.net/outreach/alabama-stemleadership-academy. Questions about the camp can be directed to asla@asms.net.
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J. Larry Newton Class Designs Parachutes
It’s a long way down for the parachutes designed in Mrs. Brown’s class at J. Larry Newton School. We will analyze our data collected from our lab to help construct and design our final products for next week’s experiment!
Send School News and Photos to: lynn@eastern shoreparents.com!
The path to
MENDING HER
HEART
was actually through her leg. Olivia was born with a congenital heart defect requiring open heart surgery at 3 months old. She also required a second surgery as a teen to replace her pulmonary valve – but this time they went through a vein in her leg to insert the Harmony Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve in her heart. This less-invasive path to replacement shortened her recovery time, and she went home the next day. Olivia was the first pediatric patient in the southeast to receive the Harmony valve, and it was here at Children’s of Alabama.
Olivia
To learn more visit ChildrensAL.org/heart
Tetralogy of Fallot Patient
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Daphne HS Student Earns Perfect Score on ACT
Big Congratulations to Laura Anne Ling from Daphne High School who scored a perfect 36 on the ACT! “Earning a top score on the ACT is a remarkable achievement,” ACT CEO Janet Godwin said in a press release. “A student’s exceptional score of 36 will provide any college or university with ample evidence of their readiness for the academic rigors that lie ahead.” Additionally, the ACT Perfect Score press release said that out of the 1.67 million students who have taken at least one ACT to submit in this year’s college applications, only 5,579 have been perfect. Well done!
Bayside Academy 6th Grader Wins Spelling Bee
Thirteen spellers from Grades 4–8 qualified for the Bayside Academy Spelling Bee on Monday, January 10. After 15 rounds, 6th grader Caroline Ernest was declared the winner and 6th grader Braxton Bender was named the runner-up. Caroline will represent Bayside Academy in the Baldwin County Spelling Bee in Loxley on Tuesday, February 1, 2022. Bayside Academy Spelling Bee Participants: 4th Grade: David Green, Ward McCrory, William Roberts. 5th Grade: Bennett Lieb, Austin McNeil, Alice Webb. 6th Grade: Braxton Bender, Caroline Ernest, Natalie Johnson. 7th Grade: Mary Alice Cannizzo, Witt Cayce, Isa Johnson. Eighth grader Forrest Smith also qualified for the Spelling Bee but was absent on the day of the competition. Pictured: Bayside Academy 6th grader Caroline Ernest following the Bayside Spelling Bee on Monday, January 10.
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Elberta MS Class Sews Pillowcases for Hospital
At Elberta Middle School check out these amazing kids sewing skills. The FACS class are sewing pillowcases to gift to a local children’s hospital.
J. Larry Newton Students Inspired by MLK
Mrs Brown’s first graders at J. Larry Newton School were inspired by their study of Martin Luther King, Jr. Students wrote about their personal future dreams to help Americans and turned their thoughts into a class book!
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If you’re like most people, January found you energized and ready to do anything necessary to start a new fitness routine in the new year. And if you’re like most people, by February, your motivation vanishes along with the cookies you swore you wouldn’t eat. Studies show only four percent of people who join a gym in January step foot in that gym in February. If you are one of the many who wanted this year to be different, there’s no way around it. You’re going to have to work for it. But there are three things you can do before you even lace up your sneakers to lay a foundation for success.
1| Find Your Why
Why do you want your jeans to fit better? So I can feel good about myself.
Because if I can finish a triathlon, I can do anything I set my mind to.
Why do you want to feel good about yourself? Because I want to be confident.
It may not be easy to keep peeling back the layers on your “why.” But the cliché is true— nothing worthwhile is easy. Once you’re crystal clear about the source of your desire, it becomes a million times easier to say no to the snooze button or girls night, and say yes to your workout— and yourself— instead.
Why do you want to be confident? I want to be a role model for my daughters. Or maybe it will go something like this: Why do you want to get fit? Because my doctor said I’m pre-diabetic and I want to live a long, healthy life Why do you want to live a long, healthy life? Because I want to see my kids grow up.
You’d be surprised how easy it is to figure out how you’re going to commit to your fitness journey when you know why you embarked on the mission in the first place. Ask yourself why you want to get in shape. Then ask again. And again… Maybe even once again. You’ll know when you’re done. Once you get over the awkwardness of having a conversation with yourself, you might be surprised how powerful your “why” is. The conversation might go something like this:
Why do you want to see your kids grow up? Because I love them and I want to share in their joys, sorrows, and adventures.
Why do you want to get fit? Because I want my jeans to fit better.
Why do you want to see if you have the strength and endurance to do it?
Or maybe it will sound more like this: Why do you want to be fit? Because I want to try my first triathlon Why do you want to do a triathlon? To see if I have the strength and endurance to do it.
2| Have a Measurable Goal
I love fitness. As an Ironman triathlete, an avid runner, a running coach, a spin instructor and an all-around fitness geek, it’s fair to say I am obsessed with fitness. But I can’t support a goal of simply “getting fit.” The same goes for “getting in shape” or “toning up.” Fitness goals must be objective and measurable. In other words, you should be able to attach numbers and dates to them. If you have a weight loss goal, make sure it includes a number of pounds and a date. “Lose weight” becomes a long-term goal of “Lose twenty pounds by December 31st.” Once you have a long-term goal, add a few short-term goals to keep you motivated and to provide benchmarks of your progress.
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Short-term goals might be: • Lose two pounds by March first. • Lose ten pounds by July first. Say your goal is to complete an event, such as your first triathlon. “I will finish a triathlon” is a measurable, objective goal, for sure. But making it as specific as possible optimizes your chance for success. Choose a specific race, put it in on your calendar, and “finish a triathlon” becomes a long-term goal of “complete the local sprint triathlon, which requires a 300-yard pool swim, a 10-mile bike ride, and a 5k run, on August 14th.” Short-term goals might be: • Swim 50 yards without stopping by March first. • Bike eight miles and run one mile immediately after without stopping by July first. Thinking of your fitness goal in measurable terms lets you determine where you need to be each month, each week, and each day to achieve it.
3| Schedule Your Workouts
“A failure to plan is a plan to fail.” Benjamin Franklin knew this was true way before we dreamed of holding tiny computers with calendars, alarm clocks, and timers
Eastern Shore Parents I February 2022
in the palms of our hands. As all successful people know, what gets on the calendar gets accomplished. Treat your workout time as you would any other appointment. Create an event on your Outlook or Google calendar, pencil it into your planner, or create an alert on your phone 20 minutes in advance. Do whatever works for you to carve out the time. If you’re having trouble keeping your workout appointments, try a different approach. In her book, Better Than Before: Mastering the Habits of Our Everyday Lives, author and happiness expert Gretchen Rubin classifies most people as what she calls “obligers.” Obligers find it much easier to follow through on a commitment to a friend, than to themselves. While most of us would easily hit snooze and skip the 7 am spin class, we’d never stand up the friend we promised to meet at the gym. There’s no shame relying on external accountability to help establish a new habit. You could start by: • Finding a friend, neighbor, or co-worker to work out with.
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• Attending classes at a group fitness studio with a strict cancellation policy. It’s hard to skip a workout you’ve already paid for • Joining a group fitness studio, running club, cycling club, masters swim team or hiking group for the community aspect. You won’t want to deal with the FOMO when you skip a workout. • Becoming a member of an online accountability group or create one yourself. • Hiring a personal trainer. Before you give up on fitness—or better yet, before you buy that fancy workout tracker and the pricey yoga pants—ask yourself the hard questions. Being honest with yourself about your fitness goals will pay dividends over the long haul as far as keeping you on your fitness path. Because once you know your Why, your What, and your When, the question of How becomes a whole lot easier to answer. ESP Pam Moore is an author, occupational therapist, and certified personal trainer who helps women push through fear to become their best selves. To get her free guide to crushing Impostor Syndrome visit pam-moore.com.
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At Glass Orthodontics, you’re more than just another face you’re a unique person and our team values that. With one dedicated doctor and a hands-on team, everyone will know your name! Consultations are always complimentary and we offer flexible appointment and interest free payment plans.
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D A P H N E • A T M O R E • B AY M I N E T T E • B R E W T O N 35
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Comparing schools is challenging because each institution offers unique programs in aunique environment. One may present a specialized science curriculum geared toward a future in engineering, while another focuses on developing cooperation and compassion through active community service. The comparisons parents must make are apples-to-oranges at best. Faced with so much detailed information about so many exciting opportunities, it’s hard to stay focused on the end goal: finding the best educational option for your student. Approach the school selection process with this three-step strategy to make sure your child’s needs come first.
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Step 1: Assess your Values
Start your school-selection process at home. “Ask yourself what you expect of a school and what you expect of your child, in terms of attitude, behavior, motivation and achievement,” says educational psychologist Jennifer Little, Ph.D., founder of Parents Teach Kids. You may want a school that has high cultural or ethnic diversity, or whose students and staff have religious values similar to those of your family. Clarifying your values will help you put schools’ marketing materials in context. Acknowledge practical matters as well. Determine how far you’re willing to drive and how much tuition you can afford. Be honest with yourself about the level of involvement you will have in your child’s school. Many private schools require parents to volunteer a specified number of hours. Create a personal checklist of your requirements and limitations so you don’t overlook important factors.
Step 2: Seek Info
For each potential school, collect information on curriculum, student-teacher ratio and academic outcomes. Study data that show how students scored on placement tests for math, English and foreign languages, and pay particular attention to how many students graduate and what schools they attend next. Also, pay attention to accreditation. The National Association of Independent Schools and similar state associations require member schools to uphold rigorous standards and to undergo periodic review. This makes school officials accountable to other
educators who are in touch with national standards and teaching trends. Examine course descriptions, materials and teacher preparation to evaluate the quality of a school’s curriculum. Also, ask about choice. You want your child to have a firm foundation in primary subjects and a choice among interesting electives. Kids are motivated to learn when they can pursue subjects they select. Learn about the availability of special programs that interest your child, such as language immersion or music instruction. Visit schools on your short list to evaluate the academic workload and environment. Ask students how much homework they do each night and attend classes to see how teachers affect learning. Do they use readings, lectures or group discus sion? Do students do projects, community service or internships at local businesses or universities? A school’s instructional strategy should match up with its educational objectives and your child’s learning style, Little says. Highly competitive classes can undermine learning for some students. Others might be frustrated by a collaborative approach. Keep in mind a school is more than its academic programs. It is a community of learners. Observe social dynamics among students and ask how teachers encourage cooperation and manage behavior problems. Kids can’t learn when they’re struggling with classroom chaos or feel left out of exclusive cliques. Look at how adults are involved in the school. A strong parent-teacher association ensures that ideas and information flow both ways. Involvement from alumni
We Are Open!
Indoor Walking Track: 7am - 5pm Mon - Fri Pickleball (Open Gym - all are invited): Tues. 8am-11am, Thurs. 8am-11am, & Sun. 2:00 - 4:30pm. The Fitness Room 7am - 5pm Mon.-Fri.
suggests a strong sense of pride in the institution. Find out how long teachers have been at the school and whether they receive regular professional development. High turnover may reflect bad management. It can also create a poor climate for learning.
Step 3: Focus on Fit “Ideally, you want to match the school to the learner,” says Faya Hoffman, founder of the Washington, D.C. learning concierge service, My Learning Springboard. “A school with a phenomenal reputation may not be the right fit for your child.” Be honest about whether an institution’s approach fits with your student’s interests and temperament. If your child has an Individualized Educational Plan due to learning (or other) disabilities, find out what services are available to meet his needs. Smaller schools may not have full-time staff to provide speech or occupational therapy or counseling services. Speak directly with staff members who provide services your child needs, so you understand how your child will get help. Knowing what to expect sets everyone up for success. Although it may be inconvenient, Hoffman says siblings may need different educational approaches and/or different schools to learn and thrive. Focus on each student as an individual to make the best educational decisions for your family. ESP Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist and mom of two. She is the author of Detachment Parenting.
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155 South Section St • Fairhope, AL • 251-928-1148 • www.fairhopeumc.org • CLC Hours: Monday - Friday, 7am - 5pm 37
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6880 US Hwy 90 (Suite 13), Daphne, AL 36526 Huntington helps students score higher on important college entrance and scholarship exams like the ACT, SAT, and PSAT, as well as high school entrance and other exams, such as the ISEE and ASVAB. Higher scores can mean better schools, more scholarship opportunities, and more career choices in the future. Call to begin your child’s individualized program today! (251) 621-1055 www.huntingtonhelps.com/center/ daphne
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Dr. Wycondia West
Offering group classes/seminars and/or one-onone instruction. Find us on Facebook: West Instructional Services or visit our website to register (251) 455-1255 wycondiawest@yahoo.com www.westinstructionalservices.net/course/
Peggy Varnado
Offering individual instruction remotely until Covid subsides and classes can resume. Email or call for more information. (601) 466-1406 pbvarnado@aol.com
Phillip Martin ACT Prep
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Homeschool Communities, Co-Ops and Cover Schools Academy on the Eastern Shore
22979 U.S. Highway 98, Fairhope, AL 36532 Unity on the Eastern Shore now provides a cover school for Alabama parents who want to home school their children. Academy on the Eastern Shore exists to support parents in their right to school their children in a responsible manner. Academy on the Eastern Shore does not accept responsibility for the education of enrolled stuEastern Shore Parents I February 2022
dents. Rather, the school allows parents a means through which they assume responsibility for their children’s education. Academy on the Eastern Shore accepts children/families from the entire state of Alabama regardless of race or religion. No statement of faith is required for admission. (251) 234-7890 unityeasternshore@live.com www.unityeasternshore.wixsite.com/unity
Bridge Christian Academy
P.O. Box 701, Fairhope , AL 36533 BCA is a legal home school covering in Alabama for parents who desire to provide academic excellence with a Biblical worldview. BCA is a “hands off” legal home school cover. We are statewide with an office in Fairhope, AL. Founded in 2000 by Pastor Todd & DuAnne Seeley, BCA has been a leader in church schools for many years. Our purpose is to offer support, encouragement and accountability for home school families. We are an affiliate group of HSLDA (Homeschool Legal Defense Association) and our families receive a discount with them. (251) 979-6227 AlabamaBCA@gmail.com www.BridgeChristianAcademy.com
Central Christian School Homeschool
17387 Highway 104, Robertsdale , AL 36567 Central Christian Homeschool is a non-denominational Christian homeschool program for students Kindergarten through 12th grade. (251) 947-7754 msimmons@ccssaints.com
Classical Conversations
Classical Conversations is a proven Christian education program created by parents for parents. We do this through a Christ-centered and family-friendly approach to homeschooling that makes everything biblical and simple. Our program covers K-4 to College Credit and includes college degree opportunities for parents, as well. To find a program near you visit Community Search on our website. www.classicalconversations.com
Erin’s Gulf Coast Homeschool Adventures
Admin: Erin Wainwright, etw501@yahoo.com. Also found on Facebook. etw501@yahoo.com www.erinsgulfcoasthomeschooladventures.com
First Assembly Christian School
P.O. Box 914, Robertsdale, AL 36567 FACS is a church school program that operates as a ministry of First Assembly of God Church in Robertsdale. Families must apply for admittance to this church school. An Application and Handbook are available on our website.
(251) 946-2250 or (251) 947-5890 facschurchschool@yahoo.com www.homeschool-life.com/732/
Navigators Homeschool Co-Op Baldwin County
Navigators Homeschool Cooperative is a Christcentered co-op which exists to DISCIPLE our children, ENCOURAGE parents, SERVE our community, and OUTREACH to other homeschooling families. We provide opportunities for families to
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come together to enrich their students’ learning experiences with elective classes, field trips, play dates, and holiday celebrations. We encourage homeschooling parents by connecting moms and dads with like-minded sojourners as they “navigate” their ways through this educational and discipleship journey. NavigatorsHomeschoolCoop@gmail.com www.thenavigators.info
North Baldwin Christian Academy
2706 Scarlet Drive , Bay Minette, AL 36507 The North Baldwin Christian Academy is designed to help homeschooling families complete the home education journey into the high school years with excellence. We want to open doors for these families. Whether a family has been homeschooling for years, or considering homeschooling for the first time, we want to help. heheadquarters@yahoo.com www.northbaldwinchristian.com
SAH - University of Mobile Homeschool Alliance Group
The University now offers a homeschool co-op for homeschool high school students, ages 13 and up, along with many homeschool workshops for all ages. Contact Erin Wainwright at the above email for more information! Join our Facebook page for information on group events. etw501@yahoo.com www.facebook.com/SouthAlabama-Homeschoolers-402045049860845/
Private Schools Bayshore Christian School ad on page 23
316 Presbyterian Drive, Fairhope, AL 36532 Our mission is to graduate students with a Biblical worldview who will inspire, impact, and serve their communities. Our students will be critical thinkers who are academically and spiritually prepared for college and their life’s calling. Grades Preschool through 12th. Sports include baseball, basketball, bowling, cheer, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, swim, tennis, volleyball and wrestling. Extracurriculars include Latin Club, Math Club, National Honor Society, Theatre Club, and Robotics Club. (251) 929-0011 BCSadmin@bayshorechristian.org www.bayshorechristian.org
Bayside Academy ad on page 7
303 Dryer Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 Bayside’s mission is to educate and develop students who are fully prepared to pursue learning throughout life. These students exhibit high moral standards, a sense of responsibility, respect for self and others, and commitment to excellence in all their endeavors. Grades PK3–12. We field 40 teams in 17 sports for students in Grades 7–12. Additionally, we have Youth Development League (YDL) offerings in nine sports for students in Grades 1–6. (251) 338-6300 admissions@baysideacademy.org www.baysideacademy.org
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Renaissance School ad on page 26
25870 Austin Road Suite 1, Daphne, AL 36526 Renaissance School of the Eastern Shore is a full curriculum school for 2nd-12th graders that exists to educate and empower nontraditional and traditional learners by using a systematic, differentiated, multi-sensory approach in a small group setting. (251) 990-0041 admin@rs.education www.rs.education
High Hopes for Autism (St. Benedict’s School) ad on page 11
12786 South Illinois Street, Elberta, AL 36530 High hopes is preparing children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, and other developmental delays, to participate independently in the community. We specialize in communication. Our goal for each client is to be able to communicate their, needs, thoughts, and feelings. We accept clients up to 4 years old and will continue to work with families until their individual needs are met. We use Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) techniques and all of sessions are one to one. Monitoring via ccTV and parent training is available during the therapy session. We accept insurance, visit our website to see our current list. (251) 986-7007 highhopes4autism@gmail.com www.highhopes4autism.org
St. Benedict Catholic School ad on page 19
12786 Illinois Street, Elberta, AL 36530 St. Benedict Catholic School is a fully accredited private school founded in 1921 and continues to serve students in South Baldwin County grades PreK 3 through 8th grade. They are committed to
building a community of inquisitive minds, faithful souls, and giving hearts in a safe and loving environment. St. Benedict has been recognized as the Best Preschool and Private School in Baldwin County* for 2021 and 2022. They offer affordable tuition options and are currently enrolling. (251) 986-8143 info@saintbenedict.net www.saintbenedict.net
Central Christian
17395 State Hwy 104, Robertsdale , AL 36576 Proudly Celebrating 52 years in Christian Education! Central Christian School offers a superior educational opportunity for qualifying students from preschool through 12th grade. It is our mission for each student to achieve academic excellence through a Christ-centered approach within our traditional setting.We also offer a full athletic program for middle and high school students. (251) 947-5043 www.ccssaints.com
Christ the King Catholic School
1503 Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526 A ministry of Christ the King Parish, providing a quality Catholic education for children in prekindergarten through eighth grade. Together with parents and the parish community, Christ the King Catholic School prepares students to meet the future with faith, knowledge and integrity. Offering CYO Athletics and clubs including Accelerated Reader. MathCounts, Altar Servers, Band (5th-8th grade), Scouting, Scholars’ Bowl, Choir , Homework Help Program, Coastal Kids, Spelling Bee, Peer Helpers Program, Students for Life Club, Chess Club, and Yearbook. (251) 626-1692 ckcs@ctkcsdaphne.org www.ctkcsdaphne,org
Marietta Johnson School of Organic Education 8 Marietta Drive, Fairhope, AL 36532 At the Organic School, children are grouped according to their age, individual learning style
and readiness to learn. We postpone and relax enforced structure according to the individual needs and abilities of each child. We contrast and balance teacher-driven instruction by providing the appropriate time, space and materials to prompt spontaneous, creative and self-inspired activity. Our Organic family provides an environment for each child to learn as naturally as in any other setting – without grades, tests or time limits –without pressure. (251) 928-9347 marietta.school@mchsi.com www.fairhopeorganicschool.com
Snook Christian Academy
18930 County Road 28, Foley, AL 36535 Snook Christian Academy, formerly known as Alabama Gulf Coast Christian Academy, is committed to excellence in academics, following Alabama’s Courses of Study through a Biblical perspective and accreditation through both Cognia (AdvanceED), AISA, and NCSA. Snook Christian Academy competes in the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) on the 1A level. SCA has a variety of sports options each season. Some athletic team options at SCA include Football, Volleyball, Cross-Country, Cheer, Basketball, Archery, Baseball, Softball, Track, and Golf. (251) 989-2333 sca@snookchristian.org www.snookchristian.org
South Baldwin Christian Academy
6900 AL-59, Gulf Shores, AL 36542 South Baldwin Christian Academy (SBCA) is an accredited, private Christian school helping students in preK3-12th grade discover the plans God has for their lives. SBCA is accredited by Cognia, the gold standard in Christian preK-12th grade education. We are committed to offering high quality academic programs with a Biblical worldview to help our students reach their God-given potential. (251) 968-1230 www.southbaldwinca.org
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St. James Episcopal School
860 North Section Street, Fairhope, AL 36532 The mission of St. James Episcopal School is to introduce children to Christ in a nurturing environment by providing exemplary preparation for future learning. Serving ages 30 months - 3rd grade for the 2022-2023 school year. Our enrichment classes are designed to complement classroom instruction through music, language, dance, environmental science and more. After-hours care is available through our Extended Day Program, until 5:30. A growing list of fun, educational after-care activities is available. (251) 928-2912 schooldirector@stjamesfairhope.org www.stjamesfairhope.school
St. Michael Catholic High School
11732 St Michael Way, Fairhope, AL 36532 St. Michael Catholic High School, a college preparatory school of the Archdiocese of Mobile, aspires for its students to become scholars, leaders and disciples of Jesus Christ. (251) 459-0210 www.stmichaelchs.org
St. Patrick Catholic School
23070 Highway 59 North, Robertsdale, AL 36567 St. Patrick Catholic School guides students on their faith journey to God, providing each student with an excellent education and developing his/ her potential in a safe, supportive atmosphere that has been nurtured through the years by the faith of the Central Baldwin Catholic community and the Presentation Sisters. Serving students K-8, St. Patrick Catholic School offers a variety of sports and activities for the students such as Basketball, Cheer, Soccer, Volleyball, Running Club, Coastal Kids Quiz, Technology Fair, and more. (251) 947-7395 school@stpatcatholic.com www.school.stpatcatholic.com
Public School Resources Alabama School of Math and Science ad on page 3
1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Alabama’s only fully public and totally residential STEM high school. ASMS’s mission is to provide academically motivated Alabama students with exceptional preparation in the fields of math, science, computer science, and the humanities. Serving grades 10th - 12th. Sports: basketball, cross-country, tennis, volleyball, and cheer. Also offering Choir, Band, Debate Team, Science Olympiad, SGA, Robotics Team, and over 35 clubs on campus. (251) 441-2100 admissions@asms.net www.asms.net
Baldwin County Public Schools
2600-A North Hand Ave, Bay Minette, AL 36507 The Baldwin County (Alabama) Public School System serves more than 32,000 students and is the fastest growing school system in Alabama. Please visit our website for zoning, registration and other information including. (251) 937-0306 www.bcbe.org
Eastern Shore Parents I February 2022
Baldwin County Public Schools – CACC Dual Enrollment
Coastal Alabama Community College provides college credit opportunities to eligible high school students to enroll in college classes concurrently with high school classes, and to receive both high school and college credit where appropriate. For more information or to register contact your high school.
Baldwin County Public Schools Career and Technical Education
1091 B Avenue, Loxley, AL 36551 The Division of Career and Technical Education is focused on helping students achieve success through leadership development, career awareness, and academic excellence. Career Technical Education is offered in all eight high schools as elective courses, at two technical centers and is offered in all middle schools in Baldwin County. CTE is focused on developing the 21st Century Skills and technical skills of 7-12 grade students and strives to prepare student for the transition to postsecondary learning and workforce opportunities. It provides students essential leadership skills through participation in student organizations. Career Education Clusters include: Agriculture and Natural Resources, Architecture and Construction Arts, Audio-Visual Technology and Communications, Business Management and Administration, Finance Information Technology and Marketing, Education and Training, Government and Public Administration, Health Science, Hospitality and Tourism, Human Services, Information Technology, Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security, Marketing, Sales, and Service Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), Transportation, Distribution and Logistics (251) 972-6862 www.bcbe.org/Page/14823
Baldwin County Public Schools International Baccalaureate Programme
IB students demonstrate a strong commitment to learning, both in terms of the mastery of subject content and in the development of the skills and discipline necessary for success in a competitive world. The IB Diploma Programme is not necessarily for the most able students, but for the most motivated students. Characteristics that many IB students share are motivation, commitment, and self-discipline. Only schools authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization based in Geneva, Switzerland, may offer the Diploma Programme. Daphne High School and Fairhope High School are now fully authorized IB World Schools. Now each school is accepting applications from rising 9th and 10th grade students from throughout the county to attend school at Fairhope or Daphne High School and participate in the program. For more information contact Daphne High School, (251) 626-8787Or Fairhope High School, (251) 928-8309. www.bcbe.org/domain/69
Baldwin County Virtual School Elementary Middle School
9160 Champions Way, Daphne, AL 36526 For nearly a decade, Baldwin County has offered one of the finest virtual school programs in Alabama. Today, students in grades 9-12 attend Baldwin County Virtual Secondary School and students in grades K-8 attend Baldwin County Virtual Elementary/ Middle School. Students in the Baldwin County Virtual Secondary School
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program do not attend traditional classes and are, in many ways, self-directed in their studies. Their testing and assessments are monitored on-site, but they do not attend school every day. Buses are not available for this program and the student must have Wi-Fi access to do their work. The students learn through internet connected computer programs and videos with support and tutoring instruction from the Virtual School staff as needed. (251) 607-5628 www.bcbe.org/baldwinvirtual
Baldwin County Virtual School Secondary School
605 U.S. Highway 98, Daphne, AL 36526 For nearly a decade, Baldwin County has offered one of the finest virtual school programs in Alabama. Today, students in grades 9-12 attend Baldwin County Virtual Secondary School and students in grades K-8 attend Baldwin County Virtual Elementary/ Middle School. Students in the Baldwin County Virtual Secondary School program do not attend traditional classes and are, in many ways, self-directed in their studies. Their testing and assessments are monitored on-site, but they do not attend school every day. Buses are not available for this program and the student must have Wi-Fi access to do their work. The students learn through internet connected computer programs and videos with support and tutoring instruction from the Virtual School staff as needed. (251) 607-5622 www.bcbe.org/baldwinvirtual
North Baldwin Center for Technology
505 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard, Bay Minette, AL 36507 The North Baldwin Center for Technology is dedicated to providing quality skills and education to prepare students for success toward post secondary goals. Visit our website and our Facebook page for more information. Programs: Health Science, Graphic Design, HVAC, Automotive Technology, Building Construction, Welding Cosmetology, Coming 2022-Baldwin County Teacher Cadet Academy (251) 937-6751 cwilson1@bcbe.org www.nbctschool.com/
South Baldwin Center for Technology
19200 Carolina Street, Robertsdale, AL 36567 South Baldwin Center for Technology is a high school career technical center serving the following high schools: Robertsdale High, Fairhope High, Foley High, Orange Beach High and Elberta High. Programs: Cooperative Education, Fire Science, Automotive Technology, Horticulture, Building Construction and Carpentry, Welding, Health Sciences, Culinary Arts, TV Production, Cosmetology Coming 2022-Baldwin Cty Teacher Cadet Academy (251) 947-5041 asealy@bcbe.org www.bcbe.org/Domain/90
The Academy at the Fairhope Airport
8600-C County Road 32, Fairhope, AL 36532 The Baldwin County Public School System, Coastal Alabama Community College and the Fairhope Airport Authority have partnered together to offer all high school students and adults courses in Airframe Technology, Electrical & Instrumentation, and Welding. The Academy at the Fairhope Airport provides the critical training needed to supply local business and industry with a skilled workforce. The Academy is located just south of
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Fairhope’s central business district and provides a prime access point for Baldwin County residents. The Academy programs are open to any student who is enrolled in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade at a Baldwin County Public School. Students can earn college credit through dual enrollment with Coastal Alabama Community College while attending any of The Academy programs. (251) 929-7378
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Subject Tutors
communicate in Spanish. These include listening and speaking skills, reading and writing skills, and cultural skills. Your student will be able to exchange greetings and information about everyday activities. They will write short paragraphs and read magazine articles relating to familiar topics. They will be able to identify some of the many Spanish-speaking countries and describe the geography and landmarks, will be able to recognize some of the cultural diversity among the Hispanic world and to appreciate the richness that each contributes. Fee is $90. Classes held 2/8/2022 3/22/2022 from 4:00pm - 5:00pm.
Huntington Learning Center
(251) 460-7200 www.bit.ly/328uSII
6880 US Hwy 90 (Suite 13), Daphne, AL 36526 Huntington Learning Center helps students of all ages improve grades, test scores and confidence. We offer Academic Evaluations, programs tailored to each student’s needs and individualized instruction from qualified teachers. Tutoring, Test Prep and more for students in K - 12th grade. Call to begin your child’s individualized program today!
One-on-one tutoring for grades K-12 in ALL Subjects. ADHD Coaching, homework help, test prep and more. Get a head start on school struggles before they begin!
(251) 621-1055 www.huntingtonhelps.com/center/ daphne
Offering one-on-one subject tutoring along with ACT and SAT test prep. Call or email for schedule and details
Eastern Shore Baptist Church FREE Tutoring
(251) 223-1528 Gatorfan820@yahoo.com
ad on Inside Front Cover
6847 Park Drive, Daphne, AL 36526 Eastern Shore Baptist Church is offering free tutoring for grades K-12. Visit the website for schedule and to reserve your free time slot. (251) 626-5550 Brenda@myesbc.net www.myesbc.net/2022-spring-tutoring-sessions
Spanish for Middle Schoolers University of South Alabama Center for Continuing Education
Fairhope Campus, Fairhope, AL 36532 Spanish for Middle Schoolers is designed to provide 6th - 8th graders the basic skills to effectively
(251) 929-4848 info@letsplaytherapycenter.com
Read & Ride - Equine Educational Consultants ad on page 22
19818 Lawrence Road, Fairhope, AL 36532 Therapy program for children with Dyslexia. A 45 minute Spire reading lesson with a certified teacher and a 45 minute trail ride on our therapy horses! (251) 747-8219 Tonyalhalterman@gmail.com
The Think Tank Tutoring
(251) 300-9697 thinktankminds@gmail.com www.thinktankminds.com
Thomas Tompkins
Therapy - Occupational, Speech,
Language, and Handwriting
American Autism & Rehabilitation Center
8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 A facility aimed at treating a variety of special needs in one convenient location. Speech, occupational therapy, ABA therapy, psychological/ diagnostic services and more. (251) 210-1632 info@americanautismcenter.com www.Americanautismcenter.com
Beach Speech Therapy
236 E 20th Avenue, Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Speech Pathologist located in Gulf Shores.
(251) 610-8000 Beachspeech2020@gmail.com www.beach-speech-therapy-llc.business.site/
Foley Therapy
Let’s Play Therapy ad on page 18
also focus on family training to train and empower families how to help their child away from the clinic.
8531 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort, AL 36527 Pediatric occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, and feeding therapy using a strength based play model to use the child’s strengths to address their weaknesses. Services
316 S Mckenzie Street Suite 101, Foley, AL 36535 Maria has been fondly referred to as the “Toy Doctor”. She engages in play to elicit the fundamental skills required for developmental; sensory motor perceptual and handwriting. Foley Therapy addresses the feeding and listening concerns of parents and teachers that children encounter. (251) 978-1280 www.foleytherapyot.com
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Hand In Hand Therapy & Tutoring, LLC
9837 US Highway 98, Fairhope, AL 36532 Occupational therapy for children birth to 26. Other services include Cognitive Behavioral interventions, therapy for Tourette or Tic disorders, dyslexia/alexia, handwriting, Visual/Motor skills, Tutoring and more. Find us on Facebook! (251) 517-7787 jessica@handinhandal.com www.handinhandal.com
Kids Always Kount Therapy Services
26420 Kensington Pl (Suite C), Daphne, AL 36526 Kids Always Kount offers speech, occupational, physical therapy, audiology, and OG specialized reading services for children from birth to age twenty-one. (251) 517-0355 www.kidsalwayskount.net
Melanie B. Waters, M.C.D., CCC-SLP Spoken Word Speech Language Services LLC 9086 Merritt Lane, Suite D, Daphne, AL 36526 Evaluation & treatment for speech-sound issues, tongue thrust, poor listening skills, auditory processing disorder, reading difficulties, dyslexia, social deficits, stuttering and communication problems. Fast ForWord products and monitoring also available. (251) 786-8255 mel.spokenword@gmail.com www.spokenwordspeech.com
Eastern Shore Parents I February 2022
North Baldwin Infirmary Pediatric Therapy
1815 Hand Avenue, Bay Minette, AL 36507 Providing comprehensive care to children who require occupational, physical and speech therapy. We offer an environment where all three therapies can work together with families to guarantee each child is receiving exactly what he or she needs. We also strive to find the correct balance of challenge and play so that children can work toward their treatment goals while having fun.
patient and improved communication with the referring physician. (251) 949-3580 www.southbaldwinrmc.com/ rehab-services
Therapy Services at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital
(251) 937-2823 www.infirmaryhealth.org/services/ therapy-services/pediatric-therapy-services/
1610 Center Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Pediatric Therapy Services at USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital offers a collaborative, team-oriented program with physical, occupational and speech language therapies for our pediatric patients. Therapy services requires a physician’s referral.
Read-Write
(251) 415-1670 www.usahealthsystem.com/ locations/pediatric-therapy-services-clinic
1048 Stanton Road, Daphne, AL 36526 Read-Write specializes in academic language therapy for students with dyslexia and other learning disabilities, including math. One-onone, intensive instruction during and after school hours. (251) 625-4020 baldwinoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com www.readwritelearningcenter.com
South Baldwin Regional Medical Center
1613 North McKenzie Street, Foley, AL 36535 Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy. Providing on-going care for the
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Thomas Hospital Pediatric Therapy
212 Hospital Drive, Suite B, Fairhope, AL 36532 Providing comprehensive care to children who require occupational, physical and speech therapy. We offer an environment where all three therapies can work together with families to guarantee each child is receiving exactly what he or she needs. We also strive to find the correct balance of challenge and play so that children can work toward their treatment goals while having fun. (251) 279-1640 laurie.repoll@infirmaryhealth.org www.infirmaryhealth.org ESP
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®
There's a Story Here...
By Anderson McKean
Everything Will Be OK by Anna Dewdney and Judy Schachner The bestselling creators of Llama Llama and Skippyjon Jones bring warmth and humor to a story with a comforting message we could all use when times are tough. Nothing is going right for little bunny... his sandwich has jelly instead of cheese. He's lost his kite. And he's stubbed his toe! But while some days can feel more sad than happy, there's always a bright spot on the horizon. Anna Dewdney and Judy Schachner perfectly blend rhyme, humor, and comfort to show readers that Everything Will Be OK!
The Year We Learned to Fly by Jacqueline Woodson and Rafael López In the highly anticipated companion to their bestseller The Day You Begin, Jacqueline Woodson and Rafael Lopez illuminate the power in each of us to face challenges with confidence. On a dreary, stuck-inside kind of day, siblings heed their grandmother’s advice to use their imaginations to lift them up and out of their boredom. Through Woodson’s lyrical text and Lopez’s dazzling illustrations, little ones are encouraged to use their beautiful, brilliant minds to lift ourselves up and those around us.
Just Help! by Sonia Sotomayor From the author of the bestseller Just Ask! comes a fun and meaningful story about making the world--and your community--better, one action at a time, that asks the question: Who will you help today? In a story inspired by her own family's desire to help others, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor takes young readers on a journey through a neighborhood where kids and adults, activists and bus drivers, friends and strangers all help one another to build a better world for themselves and their community.
Out of a Jar by Deborah Marcero In Deborah Marcero’s follow-up to her beloved In a Jar, one little bunny deals with some very big feelings. Llewellyn does not like to feel afraid or sad, angry, lonely, or embarrassed. And so he comes up with a brilliant plan: he tucks each of his feelings into jars and hides them away where they won't bother him. But when he gets in trouble in class, Llewellyn finds he needs to put away joy and excitement too. What happens when his emotions refuse to be bottled up anymore? In Out of a Jar, Llewellyn discovers that life is more colorful when he sets his emotions free!
Find these great books and more at your local bookstore Page & Palette | 32 S. Section St. Fairhope | (251) 928-5295 | www.pageandpalette.com
Eastern Shore Parents I February 2022
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Why Boundaries Are So Important with Devices As I travel across the country speaking, I have the wonderful pleasure of getting to know many parents and teachers. One of the things I have always found so interesting is a teacher’s use of boundaries in the classroom. Although it varies from teacher to teacher, most every teacher will tell you that, if you do not establish firm boundaries the first week of school, students will be inclined to take advantage of looser guidance. Sometimes this can result in a bit of chaos. The same principal applies in the home. Children tend to thrive in environments where there are clear, concise boundaries. And while it is THEIR job to test our boundaries, it is OUR job to maintain them. With today’s access to devices and social media, boundaries are more important than ever. So what might this look like in your home when it comes to setting boundaries around social media? Here are a few tips I have recommended to parents over the years.
1) Maintain empathy for your teen.
As a general rule, the current parent generation did not grow up with the outstanding amount of social media peer pressure our children are facing today. Having empathy for your child in this space will help show them that, while you will maintain boundaries to keep them safe, you empathize with what they are experiencing. Sometimes just admitting you will never know how they feel, that it must be incredibly hard to maintain the balance between social media and friends, helps them to feel seen and heard. Eastern Shore Parents I February 2022
2) Allow for natural consequences.
This is hard. We never want to see our children fail, but failure is an incredibly important component to growth. While we want boundaries that will protect them from serious harm, we also do not want to lock them down so much that they never learn how to recover from failure. This may look like extra device time, or an app that you have approved. If they do not operate within the boundaries that you set for the device time or app, then a natural consequence could be to have the time decrease or the app removed.
3) Keep the bigger picture in mind. In
our home, if my sons are listening to music on an approved app that has some explicit language, I am okay with that. That is not a hard boundary in our home. I have also found that allowing this liberty has given my sons the freedom to want to listen to their music while in the car with me. This has created many, many opportunities for us to have open conversations about what they are listening to. Hard boundaries in our home lie more in what they are posting and saying online. Our boundaries/rules are: Do not post anything unkind, rude, or inappropriate. And they know what each of these are defined by. So for us, the big picture isn’t so much the music they are listening to but how they are treating others online. Our “give” in the music area helps them feel they are not incredibly locked down and that they have a small win. This is just an example, and all parents have to decide what works best for their family.
4) Always be firm and consistent.
Children are built to test our patience. It is that resilience that will serve them through 46
much harder times in life. But as parents, it is also that constant resistance we get from them that makes us…well…tired. And more prone to give in. This leads to confusion and even more push back from your child. Having clear, concise, set boundaries with consequences will give you peace…and your child guidance on what they can and cannot do.
5) Last, and so important... Respect THEIR boundaries. During
conferences, I ask kids to name the number one thing they would ask their parents to stop doing online. Without fail they always say: STOP posting pictures of them without their permission. Ask your child before you post something with their image. This shows that you respect their boundaries, and will lead to a more trusting relationship. Further, if you allow your child to have social media, please do not “comment” under their posts. This embarrasses them and, honestly, drives them crazy. We should definitely MONITOR what they are doing, but comments need to be left to private and in person. Like I tell parents all the time, kids have their own social media lane…Facebook is our old person lane. And that is okay! We should all stay in our lanes. It sure does make for healthier, happier boundaries. As always, if you need support or have questions, I am here!
Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.
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Netflix
Rating
Overall
Violence
Sex
Profanity
Alcohol/Drugs
TV-G
B
B
A
A-
A
Digital on Demand
Rating Unrated
Overall B+
Violence B
Sex B
Profanity A-
Alcohol/Drugs C+
Pierre Malencon is a master chef, bringing honor to the duke who employs him. When he’s humiliated by a fussy guest and the duke, Malencon retreats to his late father’s decaying roadside inn, which he gradually builds into a popular dining spot. This period piece is beautifully filmed with lots of golden light and lovingly depicted, mouth-watering food. With minimal negative content, it comes in at the low end of a PG-13 rating and is suitable for teens and adults who love food, history, or both. Photo ©Samuel Goldwyn Films
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In this Irish tale, young Keegan lives with his grandfather in a lighthouse which keeps the world safe from the dangerous and destructive Huntsman. When tragedy strikes, Keegan enters a magical land where he discovers the nature of Riverdance and learns to face the darkness. Mediocre animation is a drawback of this film, hampering enjoyment of its many dancing scenes. The script also suffers from bloat, with extended scenes and pointless side plots. That said, the movie conjures up some charm and enough magic to keep young viewers entranced. Photo ©Netflix
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Rating
Feeling unaccepted by his father-in-law, Johnny wishes to become a monster – and says so in the presence of Van Helsing, who makes the wish come true and unexpectedly turns Dracula and his friends into humans. Now the whole clan heads off to South America in search of a way to restore their bodies to normal. This film lacks the wit and heart of previous instalments in the franchise, substituting frenetic action for entertainment and flat characters for clever writing. Although the movie has little negative content it doesn’t offer much in the way of positive messages either. Young viewers might enjoy it, but it’s missing the broad appeal if its predecessors. Photo ©Amazon
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Amazon
Brazen
Netflix
Rating TV-14
Overall C-
Violence D+
Sex C-
Profanity B-
Alcohol/Drugs B
Grace Miller is a successful mystery writer paying a visit to her sister. Returning from a date with the cop who lives next door, Grace finds her sister’s murdered body. Convinced that her career gives her insight into the criminal mind, Grace elbows her way onto the investigative team. This potboiler moves briskly along but it’s peopled with one note characters, silly dialogue, and cringeworthy pop psychology. The script also features a kinky plotline involving bondage and domination that makes it completely unsuitable for teen viewers and adults who don’t appreciate exploitative content. Photo ©Netflix Grades range from: A= absence of content concerns to D= excess of content concerns Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com 47
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Packing lunches, doing nightly homework, studying for spelling tests, and scrambling about during the morning rush; the thrill of a new school year has worn off and kids start to drag their feet a little more on school mornings as they return for the start of the second semester.
How do you keep kids motivated to finish out the last months of the school year strong? Eastern Shore Parents I February 2022
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www.easternshoreparents.com
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Set goals It’s important to let your child know you have high expectations for them throughout the year, not just first semester. Work with your child to set goals for success and reward them for meeting their goals. Some kids may need an academic goal, while others need goals such as no tardies for the quarter or turning all assignments in on time. Communicate with your child’s teacher to come up with some beneficial goals for your child. Rewards could include a special outing as a family, going out for ice cream, picking out a special toy, or extra screen time.
Stay positive As parents who are tired of packing lunches and reminding children to put their shoes on for the fifth time in one morning, it can be hard to stay positive. However, a positive attitude can go a long way for both parents and kids. Focus on the excitement of learning, seeing friends, and upcoming events to encourage your child that school is still as fun as it was back in August. Your positive attitude will become contagious and your child will start to get excited about school again too.
Show an interest One thing that can have a huge impact on your child’s excitement about school is their parents’ interest. When your child returns home from school, ask him about his day, his friends, and the highs and lows of the day. Listen attentively and ask questions. When it is homework time, be available to help and answer questions. When parents are excited and interested in the goings on at school, kids will be too.
Get involved Kids who are involved in school activities tend to be more excited about school. Encourage your child to join clubs and after school activities where they will be around school friends. Parents can also get involved at the school to break up the mid-year blues. When kids see their parents working at the school, it shows them that you value their time there. Check with your school to see what volunteer opportunities are available.
AN SK FILMS RELEASE OF AN ARISE MEDIA /ARCHIPELAGO FILMS PRODUCTION IN ASSOCIATION WITH RECONSIDER FEATURING ANNIE FABIAN BOBBY AXELROD ANDREW YOUNG & SUSAN TODD BY CALEIGH BARKER EDITED SOUND DIRECTOR OF WRITTEN STORY ORIGINAL MUSIC BY GIL TALMI BY JIM ISLER & LINCOLN ATHAS DESIGN BY BRIAN EIMER PHOTOGRAPHY ANDREW YOUNG BY ANDREW YOUNG & SUSAN TODD BY ANDREW YOUNG SUSAN TODD & WENDY MACKEIGAN SUPERVISING EXECUTIVE DIRECTED LINE PRODUCED PRODUCER KATHY E. RUOPP PRODUCER MYLES CONNOLLY BY SUSAN TODD & ANDREW YOUNG PRODUCERS JONATHAN BARKER SEAN B. CARROLL & STEPHEN APKON BY ANDREW YOUNG & SUSAN TODD NARRATED
65 GOVERNMENT ST. • DOWNTOWN MOBILE 251-208-6893 • www.exploreum.com
Continue your healthy habits Encourage your child to get a good night’s rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and focus on good study habits. An after school routine to complete homework and chores will help your child fall back into the school schedule after winter break. Set aside time for free time as well. Host a play date, have a movie night, go to the park if weather allows, and schedule 49
time for fun and relaxation so kids don’t get too bored with their routine. If the mid-year blues are still getting to your child, don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher to discuss a plan to get your child back on track. Soon enough the days will begin to get longer, the temperatures warmer, and school will be out for summer once again. ESP Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and contributes to numerous parenting magazines throughout the U.S.
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FamilyCalendar Tuesday February 1
Anime Club/ Member Choice 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 13 - 18 - Our monthly get-together for Anime fans. We will have bean bags and snacks. This month we’ll be watching the first five episodes of That Time I Was Reincarnated as a Slime, as chosen by attendees of the January meeting. Bring a water bottle, we’ll have popcorn! 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Wednesday February 2
Winter Wednesdays 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36582 Even during the cold season, Bellingrath Gardens is filled with blooms and beauty. Gulf Coast residents and visitors are invited to join us at our Winter Wednesdays series in January and February for sessions on gardening, history and more. Environmental filmmaker Ben Raines – The award-winning director and environmental writer will give an update on his latest adventures, including the discovery of the Clotilda, the last known slave ship to arrive in the United States. 251-973-2217 www.bellingrath.org Intro to Game Design 4:00 PM - 5:45 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Grades 2 -3: After a short review of what we learned in Coding Basics, we’ll discuss the process of building a video game including the five steps in the game design process. We will work in SCRATCH to build a game using those steps. This class is based on the Girl Scout Coding for Good badge series but any child of the correct age may attend. Scouts in uniform will receive a free FHPL Coding fun patch. Official badges must be obtained from your troop or council; FHPL will provide you with a certificate of completion. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Intro to Game Design 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Grades 4-5: After a short review of what we learned in Coding Basics, we’ll discuss the process of building a video game including the five steps in the game design process. We will work offline to write an algorithm to demonstrate the concepts. This class is based on the Girl Scout Coding for Good badge series but any child of the correct age may attend. Scouts in uniform will receive a free FHPL Coding fun patch. Official badges must be obtained from your troop or council; FHPL will provide you with a certificate of completion. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Thursday February 3
Lip Sync Battle Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Fuse Project’s Lip Sync Battle brings the most fun and unforgettable fundraising experience to Alabama’s Gulf Coast! Help Fuse Project impact more local children by joining our fundraising campaign and attending the event lipsync.fuseproject.org
Friday February 4
The King Cake-Off 11:30 AM - 4:30 PM, The Temple Downtown, 351 St Francis St Mobile, AL, 36602 The Mobile King Cake-off
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is a family friendly event open to the public. Enjoy King Cake tastings, kids activities, live music, a silent auction and more. www.kingcakeoff.com Sr Bowl Parade and Street Party 6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join in on all the fun for the annual Senior Bowl Mardi Gras Player Parade Friday, Feb. 4, 2021, from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie” 7:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/city-of-orangebeach/thoroughly-modern-millie-38659/
Saturday February 5
Battlefield Blitz 5K Race and 1 Mile 8:00 AM Historic Blakeley State Park, 34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Race to benefit the programs and grounds of Historic Blakeley State Park www.eventbrite.com Dauphin Island People’s Parade 1:00 PM Dauphin Island, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Experience the true culture of Dauphin Island through this unique parade which consists solely of locals who decorate their boats and pack their trailers full of moon pies and beads in order to celebrate the Mardi Gras festivities. Senior Bowl 2022 1:30 PM Hancock Whitney Stadium, 500 Stadium Dr, Mobile, AL, 36608 Senior Bowl will be held February 5. (251) 461-1872 www.seniorbowl.com Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie” 7:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/city-of-orangebeach/thoroughly-modern-millie-38659/ Joy of Life Mardi Gras Ball 7:00 PM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 The 2022 gala will present St. Jude patients as King and Queen. The “Joy of Life” Mardi Gras Ball will showcase the culinary skills of Mobile’s most amazing chefs and restaurants, a live and silent auction, as well as great musical entertainment all while raising funds for the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. joyoflifegulfcoast.org
www.asmglobalmobile.com/
An Evening with Drew and Ellie Holcomb 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602
Mobile Opera presents “La Canterina” Murphy High School Auditorium, 100 S Carlen St Mobile, AL, 36606 Mobile Opera presents “La Canterina” www.mobileopera.org
Sunday February 6
Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie” 2:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/city-of-orangebeach/thoroughly-modern-millie-38659/
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Monday February 7
Minecraft Academy 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 6 - 12: Come to the computer lab to learn the basics of playing Minecraft! We’ll learn how to make things needed to survive in the world as well as have free time to play and explore. Space is limited! Sign up on Eventbrite. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Jackbox Jambo 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 13 - 18: Bring your device to play Jackbox 8 with us! If you’ve never played before, Jackbox is an online game that you access with your phone or tablet and play with a group of people. The games get very, very silly, and all you need is a touchscreen device with wifi or data. We will have the game ready to go for a ton of interactive, improv fun. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Tuesday February 8
College Prep Series - Creating a Financial Aid Timeline 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 14 - 18: If you’re going to college, you know you need money to pay for things like tuition, fees, books, meals, and maybe a dorm or apartment. But when do you need the money? When do you fill out your FAFSA? We’ll answer those questions and more as we help you understand who wants money and when they want it, and how you should go about organizing it so you can focus on school and not worry about how you’re paying for it. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Wednesday February 9 Winter Wednesdays Details February 2.
Teddy Bear Tea 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 4 - 10: Children, ages 4-10 years (PreK to 4th Grade), should join us in their finery and frills with their favorite Teddy Bear in tow for goodies and games. For extra fun, dress your bear to enter the fashion show. Please sign up in Youth Services at Mrs. Julia’s desk or send her an email at youthassistant@fairhopelibrary.org with the names, ages, and contact information for each patron attending. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Intro to Digital Game Design 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Grades 9 - 10: After a short review of what we learned in Coding Basics, we’ll discuss the process of building a video game including the five steps in the game design process. We will work in SCRATCH to make a simple video game and then let our classmates playtest it and give feedback. This class is based on the Girl Scout Coding for Good badge series but any child of the correct age may attend. Scouts in uniform will receive a free FHPL Coding fun patch. Official badges must be obtained from your troop or council; FHPL will provide you with a certificate of completion. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “A Bad Year for Tomatoes” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz
www.easternshoreparents.com
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FamilyCalendar Thursday February 10
Intro to Digital Game Design 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Grades 6 - 8: After a short review of what we learned in Coding Basics, we’ll discuss the process of building a video game including the five steps in the game design process. We will learn about making avatars, arrays, and how to create an icon. We will also design a game scenario that could help with a real world problem. This class is based on the Girl Scout Coding for Good badge series but any child of the correct age may attend. Scouts in uniform will receive a free FHPL Coding fun patch. Official badges must be obtained from your troop or council; FHPL will provide you with a certificate of completion. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Intro to Digital Game Design 5:45 PM - 7:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Grades 11 - 12: After a short review of what we learned in Coding Basics, we’ll discuss the process of building a video game including the five steps in the game design process. We will learn about decision trees and how to use them in game design. We will also design a game scenario that could help with a real world problem. This class is based on the Girl Scout Coding for Good badge series but any child of the correct age may attend. Scouts in uniform will receive a free FHPL Coding fun patch. Official badges must be obtained from your troop or council; FHPL will provide you with a certificate of completion. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Exit Stage Left presents “Sealed For Freshness” 6:30 PM Foley Civic Center, 407 E Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 (251) 385-3753 https://exitstageleft.org/
38 Special Concert 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 38 Special Concert www.asmglobalmobile.com/
needed to survive in the world as well as have free time to play and explore. Space is limited! Sign up on Eventbrite. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “A Bad Year for Tomatoes” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz
Mystic Krewe of Salty Paws Pet Parade 10:00 AM Dauphin Island, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The Mystic Krewe of Salty Paws hold its 3rd annual parade starting at the Water Tower on Saturday, February 12, 2022! The theme this year will be “The Wonderful World of Disney”. Prizes will be awarded for Best Group, Most Creative, and Best Theme Representation. http://www.animalrescuemobile.org/
Friday February 11
Exit Stage Left presents “Sealed For Freshness” 6:30 PM Foley Civic Center, 407 E Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 (251) 385-3753 https://exitstageleft.org/ Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie” 7:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/city-of-orangebeach/thoroughly-modern-millie-38659/ South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “A Bad Year for Tomatoes” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz
Saturday February 12
Mini Maestros Elementary Music 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 6 - 12: Come to the computer lab to learn the basics of playing Minecraft! We’ll learn how to make things
21st Annual Chili for Charity event for Ecumenical Ministries Inc. (Adults $15 at the gate
or $12.50 online at Eventbrite Children 12 and under Free)
11:00 AM - 2:30 PM, Hallstead Amphitheater, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Besides being able to sample some of the best chili that Baldwin County has to offer, music lovers can enjoy the pleasing tunes by local favorites, Blind Dog Mike and Robert Sully. MCs will be Lori DuBose & Mark from WABF radio. Add a bake sale with out-of–this- world homemade baked goods, along with hot dogs and sodas, inflatables for the kids, balloon artistry by Dr. Gee, face painting, animal ambassadors from Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, and a mechanical bull ride for all ages. It’s the perfect recipe for a great afternoon of family fun that supports EMI’s many worthwhile service programs. www.baldwinemi.org
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FamilyCalendar Exit Stage Left presents “Sealed For Freshness” 6:30 PM Foley Civic Center, 407 E Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 (251) 385-3753 https://exitstageleft.org/ Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie” 7:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/city-of-orangebeach/thoroughly-modern-millie-38659/ Black Jacket Symphony Presents The Beatles’ “The White Album” 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 www.asmglobalmobile.com/ South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “A Bad Year for Tomatoes” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz Fairhope Elementary Schools Pirate Dash 2022 Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Register today for the 2022 Pirate Dash 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run to benefit Fairhope East Elementary, Fairhope West Elementary and J. Larry Newton Elementary Schools. In its 7th year, the 5K route takes place February 12, 2022. Participants will be taken through the Fruit & Nut District of downtown Fairhope and finished along beautiful Mobile Bay. The 1-Mile Fun Run is an out and back route along Bayview Avenue. Visit runsignup.com and search Pirate Dash 5K to register by February 4. 251-648-2122 http://runsignup.com/
Sunday February 13
Exit Stage Left presents “Sealed For Freshness” 1:30 PM Foley Civic Center, 407 E Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 (251) 385-3753 https://exitstageleft.org/ Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie” 2:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/city-of-orangebeach/thoroughly-modern-millie-38659/ South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “A Bad Year for Tomatoes” 2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz
Monday February 14
EcoCrafternoon/Inner Tube Bulletin Board 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 12 - 18: Inner tubes are ubiquitous in our society as an integral part of vehicles. They are in bikes, cars, motorcycles...and landfills. But even if an inner tube gets blown, there are still uses for the scrap material! We’ll use old inner tubes to make an interactive display board that you can use for memos, communication with your family or in a classroom, as a vision board for your creative space or whatever you want! For teens age 12 - 18, upstairs in the Maker Space! 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Tuesday February 15
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Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 8 - 12: What’s a LUG? It’s a Lego User Group, and the Fairhope Public Library has one for kids ages 8 - 12! At this months’ LUG, we’ll look at coding some LEGO robots! For ages 8-12 in the Maker Space (upstairs). Parents must remain in the building during class. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Wednesday February 16
Observe and Explore, Birds (Free) 10:00 AM Graham Creek Natural Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 This Observe and Explore will be on birds, where they live, how they survive and how beautiful they can be. Observe and Explores are for children 5-10. Parents accompany children at all times. There is a lesson, story, and craft. http://grahamcreekpreserve.org Winter Wednesdays Details February 2. Tide Travelers Storytime with Weeks Bay Reserve 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages K-5: Fairhope Library has partnered with Weeks Bay Reserve to bring you a special story and exploration time with guest speakers from Weeks Bay Reserve. These programs and stories will focus on estuaries and the critters that rely on them. Patrons will have hands-on experiences with the many animals and fossils from our local waterways or will be making crafts focused on local wildlife. Sign-ups are not required and this program is available to all 5-11 year-olds. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “A Bad Year for Tomatoes” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz
Thursday February 17
Graphic Novel Confab/Love Stories 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 13 - 18: Bring your device to play Jackbox 8 with us! If you’ve never played before, Jackbox is an online game that you access with your phone or tablet and play with a group of people. The games get very, very silly, and all you need is a touchscreen device with wifi or data. We will have the game ready to go for a ton of interactive, improv fun. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Mobile Symphony Archduke Trio ($25 in advance) 6:30 PM Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach, 26389 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 All concerts will take place in the gallery listening room. Tickets are on sale by phone or in person at the Coastal Arts Center at 251-981-2787 (ARTS). 251-981-2787 Walker Hayes 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Walker Hayes “Fancy Like Tour” www.asmglobalmobile.com/ South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “A Bad Year for Tomatoes” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz
Friday February 18
FHPLug/Lego User Group/Lego Coding Day 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501
Apollo’s Mystic Ladies (Free) 6:45 PM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Starts behind the Daphne Civic Center on Scenic 98
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South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “A Bad Year for Tomatoes” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Fourth Annual Radio Show Festival” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz
Saturday February 19
2022 Gator Chase 5K 8am & 1 Mile Fun Run 9am on the Causeway 8:00 AM Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Benefits Spanish Fort Education Enrichment Foundation (SFEEF) in providing educational enrichment opportunities for students who attend Spanish Fort schools. www.eventbrite.com Observe and Explore, Birds (Free) 10:00 AM Graham Creek Natural Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 This Observe and Explore will be on birds, where they live, how they survive and how beautiful they can be. Observe and Explores are for children 5-10. Parents accompany children at all times. There is a lesson, story, and craft. http://grahamcreekpreserve.org Orange Beach Seafood Festival & Car Show 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, The Wharf, Orange Beach, AL The festival is the major fundraising event for the Makos Academics Arts & Athletics Club (MAAAC) and Orange Beach schools. 251-981-1524 www.orangebeachal.gov Teen D&D 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 14+: Every month we will have a new roleplaying adventure. Bring your own character or use one of the pre-generated characters from the dungeon master. Beginner or experienced, all are welcome. Bring your dice if you have some. At this month’s game we are going to attempt to start a D&D podcast, so it is essential that all players do their best to be in character! Spots are limited, sign up at Eventbrite! 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Mystic Mutts of Revelry Parade (Free) 3:00 PM Fairhopers Community Park, Church Street Fairhope, AL The Mystic Mutts of Revelry Parade is a walking Mardi Gras parade in downtown Fairhope, AL, for the canine population. This year’s theme is “Pawjama Party.” Both human and their pets are encouraged to wear “pajama’s” to the event. https://www.facebook.com/mysticmuttsofrevelry Knights of Ecor Rouge (Free) 6:30 PM Fairhope Civic Center, Fairhope, AL Starts at the Fairhope Civic Center. South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “A Bad Year for Tomatoes” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Fourth Annual Radio Show Festival” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz
www.easternshoreparents.com
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FamilyCalendar 2022 Living History Crew USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park , 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 World War II comes to life every other month aboard the BB-60 with the Living History Crew. These historical reenactors, dressed in WWII period Navy uniforms, demonstrate what life aboard ship was like during wartime. www.ussalabama.com
Sunday February 20
Alabama Authors Day and Delta Discovery Cruises 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Historic Blakeley State Park, 34745 AL-225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 On February 20th Historic Blakeley State Park invites all those interested in the literary arts to join us at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center for our annual Alabama Authors Day. This special celebration showcases the work of accomplished writers throughout the state, with an emphasis on Gulf Coast authors and those who explore topics associated with regional history and natural heritage. www.blakeleypark.com South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “A Bad Year for Tomatoes” 2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Fourth Annual Radio Show Festival” 2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz
Tuesday February 22
Manga Tea 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 13 - 18: Bring your device to play Jackbox 8 with us! If you’ve never played before, Jackbox is an online game that you access with your phone or tablet and play with a group of people. The games get very, very silly, and all you need is a touchscreen device with wifi or data. We will have the game ready to go for a ton of interactive, improv fun. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Wednesday February 23 Winter Wednesdays Details February 2.
After School Art 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages K-5: Fairhope Library has partnered with Weeks Bay Reserve to bring you a special story and exploration time with guest speakers from Weeks Bay Reserve. These programs and stories will focus on estuaries and the critters that rely on them. Patrons will have hands-on experiences with the many animals and fossils from our local waterways or will be making crafts focused on local wildlife. Sign-ups are not required and this program is available to all 5-11 year-olds. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Teen Advisory Board Meeting 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 13 - 18: Bring your device to play Jackbox 8 with us! If you’ve never played before, Jackbox is an online game that you access with your phone or tablet and play with a group of people. The games get very, very silly, and all you need is a touchscreen device with wifi or data. We will have the game ready to go for a ton of interactive, improv fun. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Thursday February 24
YA Book to Movie Night/ Love, Simon 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 13 - 18: Bring your device to play Jackbox 8 with us! If you’ve never played before, Jackbox is an online game that you access with your phone or tablet and play with a group of people. The games get very, very silly, and all you need is a touchscreen device with wifi or data. We will have the game ready to go for a ton of interactive, improv fun. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Friday February 25
Maids of Jubilee (Free) 6:45 PM Fairhope Civic Center, Fairhope, AL Starts at the Fairhope Civic Center on Section Street; south on Section to Fels Avenue; west on Fels to Church Street; north on Church to Fairhope Avenue; east on Fairhope to Bancroft Street; north on Bancroft to Magnolia Avenue; west on Magnolia to Church Street; south on Church to Fels Avenue; east on Fels to Section Street; north on Section to end at the starting point. Sea Lab Science Fridays: Ocean Animal Biology Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Sea Lab Science Fridays: Ocean Animal Biology, Please register at bit.ly/SeaLabScienceFridays. Gulf Coast Marine Animals – 9:30-11:30 am, The Microscopic World of Plankton – 1:00 – 3:00 pm and Wetland Ecology: The Salt Marsh – 3:00-5:00 https://www.disl.edu/
Saturday February 26
Mini Maestros Elementary Music 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 6 - 12: Come to the computer lab to learn the basics of playing Minecraft! We’ll learn how to make things needed to survive in the world as well as have free time to play and explore. Space is limited! Sign up on Eventbrite. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Foley Parade (Free) 12:00 PM West Roosevelt and Alston Foley, AL Starts at West Roosevelt and Alston and travels north on Alston; turns west on 98 (West Laurel Avenue); turns south on Oak Street; turns east on West Roosevelt and ends at Alston. North Baldwin Sheriff’s Search & Rescues Order of the Swamp Boat Float Parade (Free) 1:00 PM Bay Minette, AL North Baldwin Sheriff’s Search & Rescue will hold its Order of the Swamp Boat Float Parade at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, in downtown Bay Minette. The event will carry a “Down in the Delta” theme and boats should be decorated accordingly. 251-209-9662 http://cityofbayminette.org/ Krewe of Mullet Mates (Free) 2:00 PM Mullet Point, Point Clear, AL Mullet Point Mystical Order of Mirams (Free) 5:30 PM Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach, AL A two-mile stretch of Perdido Beach Boulevard (Alabama 182) from west to east. Starting at Wintzell’s Oyster House (24131 Perdido Beach Boulevard) and ending at Alabama 161. Mystics of Pleasure (Free) 6:00 PM Perdido Beach Boulevard Orange Beach, AL, 36561 A two-mile stretch of Perdido Beach Boulevard
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(Alabama 182) from west to east. Starting at Wintzell’s Oyster House (24131 Perdido Beach Boulevard) and ending at Alabama 161. Shadow Barons (Free) 6:45 PM Daphne Civic Center, Daphne, AL Starts behind the Daphne Civic Center
Sunday February 27
Loyal Order of the Firetruck (Free) 2:29 PM Daphne Civic Center, Daphne, AL Starts behind the Daphne Civic Center Krewe du Cirque (Free) 6:00 PM OWA, Foley, AL, 36535
Monday February 28
Fairhope Teen Writers Group 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 13 - 18: Bring your device to play Jackbox 8 with us! If you’ve never played before, Jackbox is an online game that you access with your phone or tablet and play with a group of people. The games get very, very silly, and all you need is a touchscreen device with wifi or data. We will have the game ready to go for a ton of interactive, improv fun. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ MoonPies on Main - Mardi Gras Parades 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Gulf Shores, AL, 36561 Get ready for MoonPies on Main! It’s time for our annual Mardi Gras parades at The Wharf. Pile on as much purple, gold, and green as you can stand! www.alwharf.com Order of Mystic Magnolias (Free) 6:45 PM Fairhope Civic Center, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Starts at the Fairhope Civic Center
Tuesday March 1
Gulf Shores Parade (Free) 10:00 AM Winn Dixie Shopping Center, Gulf Shores Orange Beach Parade (Free) 2:00 PM Perdido Beach Blvd Orange Beach, AL, 36561
Friday March 4
MercyMe 7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center , 401 Civic Center Dr Mobile, AL, 36602 MercyMe concert. www.asmglobalmobile.com/
Saturday March 5
Muddy Warrior Challenge 7:30 AM Graham Creek Natural Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 Muddy Warrior Challenge benefiting the American Autism & Rehabilitation Foundation 251-391-7220 https://register.chronotrack. com/r/64720 Battle of Mobile Bay 5K Run/Walk 8:10 AM Historic Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 https://portcitypacers.com/ Ballyhoo Festival 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Gulf State Park, 20115 State Park Road Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 This exciting festival event is unique in its focus on fine art, combined with cultural charm, and the fun-loving spirit of residents of Coastal Alabama! Enjoy fine art from all across the southeast, local seafood and live music! Join us and you, too, will Ballyhoo! www.ballyhoofestival.org
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An Acoustic Evening with Sammy Kershaw and Collin Raye 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 www.asmglobalmobile.com/
fun-filled day of great food and live entertainment where teams compete to find out who can cook-up the best chili in the community with chances to win fabulous prizes. https://mobileacschilicookoff.com/
Sunday March 6
Buds and Brews 5:30 PM Cathedral Square , Mobile, AL, 36602 This laid back, one of a kind event features live entertainment, local beers, good food, and larger than life floral sculptures! Proceeds will go towards helping our Health Care Heroes at Ascension Providence with the purchase of Advanced MRI Patient Care Monitors. festivalofflowers.com
Ballyhoo Festival 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Gulf State Park, 20115 State Park Road Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Kick off festival season with Ballyhoo! This exciting festival event is unique in its focus on fine art, combined with cultural charm, and the fun-loving spirit of residents of Coastal Alabama! Enjoy fine art from all across the southeast, local seafood and live music! Join us and you, too, will Ballyhoo! www.ballyhoofestival.org Toto Concert 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 www.asmglobalmobile.com/
Friday March 11
Mobile Boat Show 2022
(Adults $10, Children 15 and under FREE)
12:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 S Water St Mobile, AL, 36602 The 2022 show will feature a great selection of boats, motors, personal watercraft, and marine accessories. This show is always the best place to see all of the new models in one place for easy comparison shopping. The Mobile Boat Show is THE place to take advantage of “special show pricing” that is only offered at the show. In addition to a huge selection of boats, there are great special events for the whole family to enjoy! https://gulfcoastshows.com/mobile-boat-show/ Riley Green 6:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23325 Wharf Lane Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Riley Green is coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on March 11 + 12 as part of the 2022 C Spire Concert Series! alwharf.com/amphitheater.php Katt Williams 8:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr Mobile, AL, 36602 Katt Williams concert. www.asmglobalmobile.com/
Saturday March 12
SEEDS Classic Rock 5k & Fun Run 8:00 AM Daphne City Hall, 1705 Main Street Daphne, AL, 36526 Join us for a morning of family fun to help support Daphne schools and students! www.active.com Mobile Boat Show 2022 (Adults $10, Children 15 and
under FREE)
Riley Green 6:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23325 Wharf Lane Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Riley Green is coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on March 11 + 12 as part of the 2022 C Spire Concert Series! alwharf.com/amphitheater.php
Sunday March 13
Orange Beach Festival of Art (Free admission) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 26389 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 It is a celebration of visual, performing, musical and culinary arts. With more than 100 artists working in a dazzling variety of media, festival-goers always have plenty to see, hear, touch, taste and experience.The Festival of Art returns March 12-13, 2022. (251) 981-2787 www.OrangeBeachArtsFestival.com Diabetes Walk 2:00 PM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 The walk for Camp Seale Harris is a family-friendly Walk/ Run raising awareness of diabetes, and an opportunity for participant fundraising efforts to make it possible for kids to attend Camp Seale Harris for kids and families living with diabetes. https://campsealeharris.org/diabeteswalk/ Spotlight Talent Showcase Murphy High School Auditorium, 100 S Carlen St Mobile, AL, 36606 The Gulf Coast Spotlight Talent Showcase was created to shine the spotlight on talented young performers right in our own community, encourage and reward their pursuits and give funds to our local schools to support arts programs. http://gulfcoastspotlight.com/
Wednesday March 16
Lyle Lovett 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 www.asmglobalmobile.com/
Friday March 18
Orange Beach Festival of Art (Free admission) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 26389 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 It is a celebration of visual, performing, musical and culinary arts. With more than 100 artists working in a dazzling variety of media, festival-goers always have plenty to see, hear, touch, taste and experience.The Festival of Art returns March 12-13, 2022. (251) 981-2787 www.OrangeBeachArtsFestival.com
50th Annual Outdoor Art Show - 2022 (Free) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Eastern Shore Art Center, 401 Oak Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 The outdoor art show is located on the grounds of the Eastern Shore Art Center and the surrounding downtown area of Fairhope, Alabama. It is within walking distance to Mobile Bay, many specialty shops and restaurants. This is a cultural and social highlight for the Gulf Coast and attracts more than 250,000 visitors. Over 100 artists, live art demos and more! www.esartcenter.org/
American Cancer Society Chili Cook-off 11:00 AM Canal Street (between Washington Ave. and Broad Street), Mobile, AL, 36602 It is a four-hour
The Wharf Boat + Yacht Show The Wharf, Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https://alwharf.com/
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Details March 11.
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Saturday March 19
50th Annual Outdoor Art Show - 2022 (Free) Details March 18. Elton Live The Ultimate Tribute BandDaphne Civic Center 5:30 PM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US Highway 98 Daphne, AL, 36526 saltlifepromotions.yapsody.com/event/ book/675121/30967211 Khalid in Concert 7:30 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23325 Wharf Lane Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Khalid in Concert alwharf.com/amphitheater.php The Wharf Boat + Yacht Show The Wharf, Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https://alwharf.com/
Sunday March 20
50th Annual Outdoor Art Show - 2022 (Free) Details March 18. The Wharf Boat + Yacht Show The Wharf, Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https://alwharf.com/
Friday March 25
34th Annual Mayor’s Golf Tournament Quail Creek Golf Course, 19841 Quail Creek Dr Fairhope, AL, 36532 Proceeds from the tournament are distributed by Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation (FEEF) directly back into Fairhope’s five public schools. These funds provide programs and equipment to our students and teachers that are not made possible through traditional funding the schools receive. feefonline.org
Saturday March 26
Cody Johnson in Concert 7:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23325 Wharf Lane Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Cody Johnson is coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on March 26 as part of the 2022 C Spire Concert Series! alwharf.com/amphitheater.php Mobile Ballet presents “Peter Pan” Mobile Civic Center Theater, 401 Civic Center Dr Mobile, AL, 36602 Peter Pan will take audiences to the magical island of Neverland in a delightful fantasy adventure! Featuring choreography by Katia Garza and an original score by composer David Ott, this production captures the imagination of both children and adults. Performances: 2:30pm, 7:30pm. Also March 27. 251-342-2241 https://mobileballet.org/
Every Monday and Friday
Free Build 9:30 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Free build -Activity Room, Ages 2-10yrs. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Tuesdays
Movers and Shakers Storytime 10:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 This Toddler Tuesday is for all of the roamers, movers, and shakers! The program lasts approximately 30-40 minutes, with about 15-20 minutes dedicated to reading and rhyme, and 20 minutes dedicated to block play and socialization or crafts and coloring. A different sensory experience will be introduced each month. 18 months-2 years 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
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FamilyCalendar Lap Babies-Virtual (Facebook) Children’s Story Times 10:30 AM Virtual, Daphne, AL, 36526 Lap BabiesVirtual (Facebook) Children’s Story Times (251) 620-2500 Find us on Facebook
mately 30 minutes, with about 15 minutes dedicated to reading and rhyme, and 15 minutes dedicated to tummy time/ floor play or socialization for parents and babies! 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Every Tuesday and Thursday
Pre-K-Virtual (Facebook) Children’s Story Times 10:30 AM Virtual, Daphne, AL, 36526 Pre-K-Virtual (Facebook) Children’s Story Times (251) 620-2500 Find us on Facebook
Big Kid Storytime - Activity Room 11:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 This is a story hour filled with rhymes, games, and crafts. Our goal here is to have fun while learning to be a good audience member and developing a love of reading. We’ll focus on learning a few new vocabulary words each week, read a story, take a dance break, read our second story, and then work on a book-related STEAM project or game. Ages 3+ 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Wednesdays
Storytime - Page & Palette 10:30 AM Page & Palette, 32 S Section St Fairhope, AL, 36532 Please join us on Wednesdays at 10:30 AM for storytime! Each week, Miss Paula share a silly story the whole family will enjoy. 251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com Bookworm Bandits Book Club - Ages 9-12 4:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Thursdays
Babies and Books Storytime - Ages Newborn - 18m 10:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 This storytime is for our lap-sitters and crawlers. The program lasts approxi-
K-3rd Book Club -Virtual (Facebook) Children’s Story Times 3:30 PM Virtual, Daphne, AL, 36526 K-3rd Book Club -Virtual (Facebook) Children’s Story Times (251) 620-2500 Find us on Facebook
Select Saturdays
Ocean Explorer Saturdays Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL Discovery Hall Programs is now offering its popular summer camps during the school year, too. On the chosen Saturdays of each month, we are offering an ocean-themed program full of science, activities, and fun. Pre Registration is required. bit.ly/OceanExplorerSaturdays
First Saturdays of the Month
Magic the Gathering - Ages 13-18 11:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ready to throw down some cards? Come to Fairhope Library on the first Saturday of the month and battle with other planeswalkers. Meet new friends and learn new tricks as you sling some mana around. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org
Second Saturdays
Saturday Storytime with Miss Mary! 11:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36537 Join us for our annual Veteran’s Day program as we take one of our popular Civil War cruises and welcome historian Dr. Timothy B. Smith for a discussion of his writing on the Vicksburg Campaign. www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
First Sunday of every month
First Sunday Outdoor Market at 5 Rivers 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 The First Sunday Outdoor Market at 5 Rivers is an opportunity to shop outdoors and support local artisans, crafters, growers, and makers and shop the Cypress Gift Shop at 5 Rivers for unique outdoor-themed items and gifts. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center
First and third Sunday
Animal Ambassadors 2:00 PM Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at 2 PM as we present one or more of our live educational animals. Free, family friendly, no registration required. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center
Because of ever-changing circumstances due to Covid-19, please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.
Call us today to schedule your appointment!
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A Sacrifice Will Be Required
Q. I bring home about $2,800 a month, and our mortgage payment is $1,100. We have been forced to take money out of our savings account occasionally over the last year or so to help pay the bills. My wife loves being a stay-athome mom with our two preschool kids, but even she is talking about finding a daycare for the kids so she can go back to work and help out financially. How do you feel about this idea and our situation? A. I can’t blame your wife for loving the idea of staying home with your kids when they’re so young. Being a stayat-home mom is a great thing if you can make the numbers work. Still, I’m sure it’s no picnic trying to live on $1,700 a month with two little ones in the mix. Let’s look at it like a math problem with three components — house
payment, income and lifestyle. Forty percent of your pay is going toward your home. That’s way too much. Your mortgage payment or rent should never be more than 25 percent of your take home pay. I suppose you could look into the possibility of refinancing your home, but that’s not going to solve all your problems. One option would be finding a way to generate some extra income, whether that means a part-time job nights or weekends, or pursuing additional education or certifications to get your
income level up at work. Another is to sell the house and find a less expensive alternative, but I’m never a big fan of that idea — especially in a family situation — unless there’s absolutely no other way to avoid bankruptcy or foreclosure. I think you and your wife need to sit down, and spend some serious heartto-heart time talking things over, crunching the numbers and creating a plan. There’s going to be some sacrifice involved for everyone, and only you two can decide what’s worth it and what isn’t — for you two and your kids.
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Advertise your camp so spots are filled! Call or Email to Reserve Your Space (251) 929-2099 | lynn@easternshoreparents.com Eastern Shore Parents I February 2022
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FLU & PNEUMONIA
FACTS
Flu & Pneumonia Vaccines Reduce Illnesses, Doctor Visits, Hospitalizations, Missed Work & School.
U L F T H G FI A I N O M U & PNE
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