Jenny has always dreamed of becoming a rock star...
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Scale back alabama is a FREE statewide weight loss program for adults 18 and older. 2016’s program brings tips and info PROGRAM all year long. HIGHLIGHTS: 10th Year Lose at least 10 Anniversary! pounds and get in the prize drawing. Brand new Scale Back Alabama Phone App Top prize: $1,000 (tracks nutrition, per team member exercise and sends Sign up in January health tips) and weigh in Jan. 25 – 31. GOAL:
Participants eat less and move more to lose 10 pound s in 10 weeks
For online registration and more information, visit
www.scalebackalabama.com 1
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Job Fair
Thurs., Jan. 14, 2016 From 10 am to 5 pm
Hosted by Original Oyster House Gulf Shores Hiring All Positions at Restaurant & Geez Louise Boutique Seasonal • Part Time • Full Time Are you interested in working at one of our area’s best known restaurants
for great seafood, scenery and southern hospitality? As a member of our team, you can experience a culture that thrives on exceptional service,
employee recognition and financial reward. You’ll work in a fun, casual
atmosphere with panoramic waterfront sunsets, work with caring coworkers and seasoned management and enjoy competitive benefits. The
Original Oyster House has long-time, loyal employees who value family, integrity and great service.
www.OriginalOysterHouse.com/jobs
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On the Original Oyster House Boardwalk 701 C HWY 59 Gulf Shores, AL 251-948-5684 ShopGeezLouise.com
3 www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine clothing | jewelry | shoes | gifts
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January2016
Volume 8 Number 8
Columns
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6 Publisher’s Note Lynn Knighton
8 Living With Children
52 Banish Winter Blues 15 ideas to help you through what many experience as the hardest season of the year.
John Rosemond
16 Kids Health Watch
How to Find a High Quality Preschool
sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
What to look for and questions to ask in this critical decision.
48 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs
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50 Dave Says Dave Ramsey
51 Centsibly Southern Chic
70 Child Care Guide
Find detailed information about area child care centers and preschools.
Laura Handey
56 Get This!
Mean Girls
Gerry Paige Smith
Help your daughter dismantle this time bomb before she gets to her middle school years.
Gerry Paige Smith
Departments
On The Cover
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Fowler Havron (2) is the son of Jess and JoEllen Havron. His grandparents are Carl and Jolene Madden of Brewton and Bunny Havron of Daphne. Fowler enjoys playing with trucks, tractors, and four-wheelers. Fowler also loves to play outside and get a little dirty! 55
61 A Page in a Book
Bits and Pieces 18
School Bits 72
Family Calendar 76
Movie Reviews
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Publisher’sNote Happy New Year, 2016! Wow, where has the time gone? It doesn’t seem that long ago that everyone was freaking out about Y2K, stocking up on bottled water and canned goods. I was working at a bank at the time and people were really nervous. Brad and I were newlyweds and watched 2000 ring in with zero incidences to report, thankfully. Now here we are just 16 years later with three children, one getting ready to get her learner’s permit! It is hard to believe how fast they are growing up. We recently moved, and as I was cleaning out, I pulled out stacks of homemade cards and pictures the girls made in school over the years. I even found the very first footprint card Mary-Bradley’s daycare made for me. I sat there, tired and overwhelmed, and just put my hand on top of that little print and cried. I wasn’t crying because I was sad my baby is growing up, I was just emotional thinking about how much joy being a mother has brought to me. I was unsure in the beginning, wondering how in the world I was going to manage it all. Fortunately, I had some amazing help from the wonderful ladies at our daycare. They grew to be our extended family and we developed some lifelong friendships with the other families, too. Finding good childcare is so important. If you find the right fit, you will form a wonderful bond with your new extended “family”. Childcare is not a “one size fits all” option. What works for your neighbor may not work for you. If you are beginning to consider childcare options, start by reading Barbie Norvell’s article, What to Look for When Choosing a Preschool. Dr. Norvell has a PhD, an EdS MS and a BS in Early Childhood Education, along with 26 years of experience as a classroom teacher and university professor. Her article has some wonderful points to consider when visiting childcare facilities. You will also find the 2016 Childcare Directory on page 62 very helpful. We have provided a complete list of local daycare centers, preschools and mother’s-morning-out programs. Two last pieces of advice, trust your gut. And, do not wait until six weeks before you need childcare to start looking. Many centers have waiting lists, so start the search as soon as you realize you will be needing future childcare. Many registrations are first come first serve, so get there early. Visit the center before registration to make sure you have everything you need to secure your spot. Finding the right childcare may also mean finding lifelong friends. Developing strong friendships early can help when children have to navigate through those awkward years. We all know too well how common the mean girl (and boy) culture has become. The problem only perpetuates when the person on the other side does not know how to react and defensively says something mean back. We have countless discussions in our house about being kind, thinking of others’ feelings and turning the other cheek, because you never know what someone else is going through. Their meanness and anger may actually be hiding hurt or insecurity. I constantly tell my girls to think before they speak. We also ask them to think of the intention of the words. Sometimes people say things that aren’t meant to be hurtful, but are. If you are on the receiving end, afford that person the grace of letting it go. They are probably already regretting their words. If you make a mistake and speak harshly, own it and apologize. With this in mind, I encourage everyone to read Christina Katz’s article Dismantle The Mean Girl Time Bomb Before Middle School: A Primer For Moms. It is going to take everyone working on this problem if we are ever going to see a difference. Wishing you and your family a joyful new year!
Lynn lynn@easternshoreparents.com
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The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source
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.
Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Christa Weinberg Contributing Writers Laura Handey Carolyn Jabs Jennifer Heaton Christina Katz Barbie Norvell, Ph.D. Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Robert L. Rux, M.D. Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Janel Gay www.janelgayphotography.com
President Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com Advertising Opportunities Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall Tracie Calvert Danielle Nicholas ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099 Ad Design Tim Welch
Visit us online at www.easternshoreparents.com 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 2015 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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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond
Signs of Potential Teen Drug Abuse Q: Our 17-year-old has completely fallen apart! In less than a year, he’s gone from being an outstanding honors student, athlete, and well-mannered young man that all of his teachers, coaches and friends raved about to being a mediocre (B/C with the occasional D) student who has decided he’s had enough of playing sports. His attitude has deteriorated as well. He’s often surly and disrespectful. We know he began smoking pot around the same time the downturn occurred, but he assures us he’s not doing that anymore. He says he’s just tired of being “Mr. Goody Two-Shoes.” We took his car away for a few weeks but that had no effect. As he is in his junior year, we are concerned that he’s trashing lots of potential opportunities. Any advice would be appreciated.
A: I’ll eat my favorite Panama hat if your son’s not still smoking marijuana on a
Eastern Shore Parents I January 2016
regular basis. You’re describing precisely the effects pot has on motivation and social behavior (attitude). Deception is a feature as well, including denial of continued use. The research strongly suggests that marijuana use has a very adverse effect on teens. My take is that you are being very naïve, probably because your son has given you little problem to this point and you want to believe these problems are temporary glitches. That may be, but then again, this could be the beginning of a much more destructive decline. I’ve heard too many horror stories to recommend a “wait and see” at this point. You want to believe him, of course, but in the course of doing so, you’re close to becoming enablers.
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You did well by taking his car away, but you blew it when you gave it back after a few weeks. The two most likely reasons that that didn’t have any effect are (1) you didn’t take the car away long enough and (2) he knows you’re too softhearted and easily manipulated to do so. So, he just waited out the punishment. Schedule him for a surprise drug test. Assuming that comes back positive, you sit him down and tell him he (1) will undergo random drug tests (once every four weeks on average) until he’s been clean for nine months, (2) begin seeing a drug counselor who specializes in working with teens, and (3) will have no use of a car or cell phone until he’s been clean for five months, his grades come up, he’s back in at least one sport, and his attitude at home improves dramatically. In the small likelihood that the drug test comes back negative, sit him down and inform him of (3) above: take his car and cell phone until he is back on track and stays there long enough for you to know that his improvement is not fleeting. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
www.easternshoreparents.com
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The Snow Queen Tea Party
Kick off the new year with Project Mouvement In Art’s magical performance “The Snow Queen Tea Party” premiering Saturday, January 9, 2016 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, January 10 at 2 p.m. & 5 p.m. at the Fairhope Civic Center. Sing and dance along to live songs from “Frozen”, including “Let It Go” while enjoying delectable treats and tea. Project Mouvement in Art (PMIA) is a nonprofit community dance initiative, which offers dedicated young artists an array of intensive training and performance opportunities. Its mission is to foster and nurture young dancers who demonstrate the aptitude and ambition to achieve loftier levels of artistry. Proceeds from a Frozen Tea Party will benefit PMIA and the Fairhope Rotary Youth Club. For more information call 610-8902 or visit www.pmiart.com.
Original Oyster House to Host Job Fair at Gulf Shores Location
Seasonal • Part Time • Full Time Are you interested in working at one of our area’s best known restaurants for great seafood, scenery and southern hospitality? As a member of the Original Oyster House team, you can experience a culture that thrives on exceptional service, employee recognition and financial reward. You’ll work in a fun, casual atmosphere with panoramic waterfront sunsets, work with caring coworkers and seasoned management and enjoy competitive benefits. The Original Oyster House has long-time, loyal employees who value family, integrity and great service. Gulf Shores Location, 701 Hwy 59 on the Original Oyster House Boardwalk, Thursday, January 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hiring All Positions at Original Oyster House & Geez Louise Boutique, Gulf Shores. For more information about Original Oyster House, visit www. originaloysterhouse.com/jobs or call 251-928-2620 x 109.
MLK Day of Service 2016
January 18, 2016 will mark the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Holiday. This milestone is a perfect opportunity for Americans to honor Dr. King’s legacy through service. The Center for Academic ServiceLearning and Civic Engagement will be helping students and organizations find service opportunities for the day. Register at www.allforgood.org and let us know if you need a service project and what kind of service you are interested in. "Everyone has the POWER for GREATNESS, not for fame but greatness, because greatness is determined by SERVICE" - Martin Luther King Jr. Please email caslce@southalabama.edu for any questions.
Kids Give Back to Community through Volunteering
United Way of Baldwin County held a series of Day of Caring for Kids that allowed children to put in some sweat equity for community service programs that serve communities. Children gave back by volunteering at the Ecumenical Ministries food pantry, making Christmas cards for Military and Veterans with the American Red Cross and performing some light housekeeping and decorating for the holidays at Light of the City youth club in Bay Minette. “Our first ever Day of Caring for Kids was a great success. Children from all over Baldwin County learned what it means to give back by volunteering at various service projects throughout our county,” said Marina Simpson, Executive Director of UWBC. “Thank you to all the parents that recognized the importance of volunteering and brought their children out to participate. We look forward to making this an annual event!”
Reese’s Senior Bowl 2016
The 2016 Reese’s Senior Bowl is scheduled for Mobile’s Ladd-Peebles Stadium on Saturday, January 30th at 1:30 p.m.. Many fun events are planned for the week of the Senior Bowl. Chick-fil-a Fellowship of Christian Athletes Rally will be held Wednesday, January 27th at the Mobile Convention Center. For ticket information, please visit www.southalabamafca.org. The Coca-Cola Meet the Players will be held Friday, January 29th from 3:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. and is free to the public. In addition to meeting the players, fans can enjoy interactive displays from the New Orleans Saints, Under Armour, the Marine Corps, Coca-Cola and AT&T plus games for the kids. Baumhower Tailgate Challenge is on Saturday, January 30th. This competition is to determine the Senior Bowl Tailgater of the Year. The Challenge is free and open to anyone tailgating in the parking lot on game day. Also held on game day in the East parking lot is the Food for Less Tailgate Party which is a pre-game event held in the Ladd-Peebles Stadium parking lot. Passes for the event are free with the purchase of a Senior Bowl ticket and are limited to the first 3,500 fans. In addition to free food and drink, tailgate party goers will enjoy inflatable activities, face painters, clowns, interactives provided by the United States Marine Corps and the Coca-Cola Family Festival game trailer. For more information, visit seniorbowl.com. Eastern Shore Parents I January 2016
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13th Annual “Many More Miles” Campaign
Giving New Life to Old Shoes for Those in Need You may have put a lot of miles on your old running shoes, but when you donate them to the “Many More Miles” campaign, your shoes will land on the feet of someone who really needs them. For the 13th consecutive year, Baldwin Bone & Joint, P.C. will once again host this important community project, partnering with Mobile and Baldwin County YMCA branches, the Port City Pacers, USA Student Recreation Center and McCoy Outdoor Company to collect shoes for the homeless outreach programs of Wings of Life and Discovery Ministries. With the kickoff beginning early January each year, donations for 2016 are now being accepted with final shoe drop-offs received at the 2016 Azalea Trail Run on March 19. Mobile and Baldwin County elementary students will also once again have the opportunity to collect shoes and earn money for their schools’ P.E. programs. Baldwin Bone & Joint will award cash prizes to the individual P.E. programs for the top three schools donating the most shoes. So clean up those gently used athletic shoes, tie them together in pairs and drop them off at any of the following locations: •Baldwin Bone and Joint -1505 Daphne Avenue, Daphne •YMCA facilities in Mobile and Daphne •Dr. Glenn Glass, Daphne •McCoy Outdoor Company - 3498 Springhill Avenue, Mobile •The University of South Alabama Student Recreation Center •2016 Azalea Trail Run Expo, Mobile Civic Center on March 19. For more information, call 621-5387.
Fairhope K-6 PTC Pirate Dash
Come join the fun on January 23, 2016 from 8 a.m. – 10 a.m. in Downtown Fairhope for the Pirate Dash 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run. The Pirate Dash is hosted by Fairhope K-6 PTC and proceeds will benefit Fairhope Elementary School and Fairhope Intermediate School. This certified 5K starts on Bayview Street near Fairhope Avenue and finishes on Magnolia Street at Knoll Park. 1 Mile starts and finishes on Magnolia Street at Knoll Park. Pre-registration is available online at http://piratedash2016.eventbrite.com until 4 AM January 22. Pre-register in person at McCoy Outdoor, Run-N-Tri, or Fleet Feet in Mobile, or Running Wild in Fairhope until noon on January 21.To be guaranteed a t-shirt on race day, please register by January 8. Pre-registered Adults: $25, Children (12 and under) $20. Day of Race Adults: $30, Children (12 and younger): $25. Stay in Bed (shirt only): $15; Pirate Supporter: $50 (personalized yard sign, shirt, and race entry – register by January 8). Mail-in pre-registration entries and fees (checks payable to Fairhope K-6 PTC) should be postmarked by January 16 and mailed to: Fairhope k-6 PTC, P.O. BOX 1191, Fairhope, Al 36533. Fabulous variety of food and beverages will be provided in the finish line area after the race. All registered participants will be eligible for the door prize drawings - you be present to win. For 10:05 more AM information TOG 7.5 must x 4.8.qxp_Layout 1 12/8/15 Page 1 look for the Fairhope K-6PTC Facebook page.
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SO DO WE. The Orthopaedic Group proudly welcomes Timothy L. Frerichs, M.D. and J. Keith Spain, M.D. DR. SPAIN is a native of Mobile, Alabama and is a board-certified family and sports medicine physician. In training and practice, he has served as team physician for several high schools, colleges, and professional sports teams. He is well versed in the management of common health issues as they relate to the sports enthusiast.
DR. FRERICHS was born in Pensacola but now calls Orange Beach home. He is an orthopaedic surgeon, fellowship trained in Sports Medicine and Foot & Ankle. He specializes in treating conditions of the foot and ankle, shoulder, knee and other sports related injuries. Being an orthopedic surgeon provides me the opportunity to help my patients get back to their activities and enjoy life.
At The Orthopaedic Group, we know it’s not WHAT we treat, but WHO, that matters most. We put patients first in ALL we do because we aren’t just THE Orthopaedic Group, we are YOUR Orthopaedic Group. 1711 North McKenzie Street | Foley, AL 36535 For appointment: (251) 476-5050 | theorthogroup.com 11
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Please check local websites listed below to confirm parade dates and times before attending. www.mobilemask.com www.mobilecarnivalmuseum.com www.fairhopemardigras.com www.gulfshores.com Friday, January 29 6:45 p.m. - Apollo’s Mystic Ladies (Daphne) Saturday, January 30 1:00 p.m. - The Haven’s Mystic Mutts; Pets and Kids (Fairhope) 6:45 p.m. - Knights of Ecor Rouge KOER (Fairhope) Friday, February 5 6:30 p.m. - Mystical Order of Mirams (Orange Beach) 6:45 p.m. - Maids of Jubilee MOJ (Fairhope) Saturday, February 6 11:00 a.m. - Foley Parade (Foley) 12:00 p.m. - Mystic Revelers (Bay Minette) 2:00 p.m. - Krewe of Mullet Mates (Mullet Point/Point Clear) 5:30 p.m. - Mystics of Pleasure (Orange Beach) 6:45 p.m. - Shadow Barons (Daphne) Sunday, February 7 (Joe Cain Day) 2:30 p.m. - Loyal Order of Fire Trucks (Daphne)
Eastern Shore Parents I January 2016
Mardi Gras Parade Schedule Monday, February 8 (Lundi Gras) 6:45 p.m. - Order of Mystic Magnolias OOM (Fairhope) Tuesday, February 9 - (Fat Tuesday) 10:00 a.m. - Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Association (Gulf Shores) 10:00 a.m. - LuLu’s Mardi Gras Boat Parade (Gulf Shores) 2:00 p.m. - Orange Beach Parade (Orange Beach)
Routes
Bay Minette Starts at the middle school, at Dobson and West Seventh Street; South on Dobson to West Seventh Street; East on Seventh to McMeans Avenue (Alabama 59); South on McMeans to D’Olive Street; East on D’Olive, through Courthouse Square, to Hoyle Avenue; South on Hoyle to First Street; West on First to the Civic Center and disband. Daphne Starts behind the Daphne Civic Center on Scenic 98; South on 98 to College Avenue; West on College to Sixth Street; North on Sixth to Belrose Avenue; East on Belrose to 98; North up 98 and ends at the starting point. Fairhope Starts at the Fairhope Civic Center on Section Street; South on Section Street 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
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Avenue; West on Magnolia to Church Street; South on Church to Fels Avenue; East on Fels to Section Street; North on Section Street and ends at the starting point. Foley Starts at West Roosevelt and Alston and travels north on Alston; West on 98 (West Laurel Avenue); South on Oak Street; East on West Roosevelt and ends at Alston. Gulf Shores Starts on Alabama 59 and 16th Avenue (in front of the Winn-Dixie shopping center) and travels south on 59 to Perdido Beach Boulevard (Alabama 182); East on 182 and ends at First Street. Mullet Point The entire five-mile route follows Baldwin County Highway 1, starting at Mullet Point Park and traveling southeast to the end of the road, just past Baldwin County Highway 27. Orange Beach Mystics of Pleasure; Mystical Order of Mirams The nearly three-mile route follows a section of Perdido Beach Boulevard (Alabama 182) from west to east. It starts at Wintzell’s Oyster House (24131 Perdido Beach Boulevard) and ends at Perdido Dunes Condominiums (27070 Perdido Beach Boulevard). Orange Beach Parade Route is a two-mile stretch of Perdido Beach Boulevard (Alabama 182) from west to east. It starts at Wintzell’s Oyster House (24131 Perdido Beach Boulevard) and ends at Alabama 161.
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Center Stage Performance Announces Auditions for Their Spring Productions
Students 4th – 12th grad will rehearse Beauty and the Beast, Jr. and students K4 through 3rd grade will rehearse A Year with Frog and Toad, Kids this Spring semester. Both age groups will perform a complete production with staging, lights, a professional set and costuming in May. Students need to attend auditions on January 12th or 14th. Those auditioning need to bring a headshot and come ready to sing a song of their choice. Students will then be coached through a short acting exercise. Weekly rehearsals are held on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 4:30-6:30pm Students with large roles may require additional rehearsal time. Auditions and rehearsals are held at The Life Center at 155 S. Section St. in Fairhope. For more information on our auditions, program, and fees please visit www.CenterStagePerformance.com or contact Jill Stanley at jill@ centerstageperformance.com.
Local High School Teacher Publishes Novel
Reviews are coming in strong for local author and longtime English teacher Rocky Porch Moore’s new novel “Clemenceau’s Daughters”. The novel is published by Southern Yellow Pine Publishing, a Tallahassee firm specializing in Southern literature, and distributed by Lightning Source/Ingram. Clemenceau’s Daughters depicts the beginning and end of a family line. Folks tend to die around Little Debbie Ballard. She struggles to make sense of a world where an unspoken past and prejudice collide, where truth is no longer as simple as Daddy’s word, and cruel intentions transcend generations. Debbie discovers the insidious legacy that haunts the women of her family one by one. Tracing the roots of Debbie’s ancestry back to pre-revolutionary France, past and present are interspersed to show how the will of a vindictive woman rots a family tree from within. Rocky Porch Moore has made Foley her home since 1994. She currently teaches at Fairhope High School. She and her husband Russ, the principal of Foley High School, have 4 children and a passel of farm animals. Clemenceau’s Daughters is available at Page and Palette in Fairhope, may be pre-ordered directly from www. syppublishing.com or Amazon.
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Impact 100 Awards 2015 Grants Distributed to Baldwin County Nonprofit Agencies
Impact 100 Baldwin County awarded four grants at $96,000 each totaling $384,000 to four area nonprofit agencies in Baldwin County during its annual meeting held on Nov. 1 at the Marriott Grand Hotel in Point Clear. This year’s award recipients were African Universal Church Resource Center, Daphne Search and Rescue, Baldwin County Foster and Adoptive Parent Association and ARC Baldwin County. The projects that the 2015 grant money will help fund include: AUC Resource Center, Daphne; AfricanUniversalChurch.com: This project will use the Impact 100 grant to enhance and update an existing day care center, afterschool program and summer camp, thereby providing at-risk children and youth the opportunity to continue the education process after school and during the summer months. The enhancements will include new computers, software, workstations, playground equipment, and a new 15-passenger van and a used wheelchair accessible van. Daphne Search and Rescue, Daphne; www.daphnesar.org: This “Safe Waters” project will use grant funds to purchase state of the art high-resolution sonar technology and other safety equipment, which will help locate missing persons, vessels and other objects in our waterways. Baldwin County Foster and Adoptive Parent Association, Robertsdale: Easing the transition to foster care for both the child and the foster family, this organization will provide a “Life Bag” to children currently in or going to foster care. “Life Bags” will include age-appropriate items such as underwear, school uniforms, pillow, blanket, toiletries and books, which will ease the financial burden on the foster families and give the child a sense of security and normalcy. ARC Baldwin County, Loxley; www.arcbaldwincounty.org: This Impact 100 grant will fund the purchase of three vehicles, two of which would be handicap accessible, to provide safe, efficient, and reliable transportation of disabled individuals to an average of 200 medical appointments each month and 90 hospital visits a year. Pictured, the 2015 grant winners (from L to R) are: Baldwin County Foster and Adoptive Parent Association - Katy Bridges and Kevin Welch; AUC Resource Center - Cassandra Boykin and Pastor Jerry Boykin; Daphne Search and Rescue - Lt. Joshua Gibbs and Capt. Ronny Champion; ARC Baldwin County - Kathy Fleet.
Eastern Shore Adult & Family Medicine Andrew Dukes, M.D. Dr. Dukes is board certified with 20 years of experience in family medicine.
• Well baby care (2 weeks and up) • Pediatrics • Adolescent check-ups • Positive youth development • Immunizations • Sports physicals
Accepting new patients.
251-929-3424
More, devoted to your care.
Andrew Dukes, M.D. • John McDuff, M.D. 300 South Greeno Rd., Suite B, Fairhope, AL 36532 Eastern Shore Parents I January 2016 1 IMC_1757_ESAFM_ESParent_Hlfpg_Ad_2013.indd
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Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama Prepares for Another Exciting Season with Digital Cookie
Last year, nearly 160,000 Girl Scouts experienced a revolutionary change to the iconic Girl Scout Cookie Program: the Digital Cookie™ platform. With Girl Scouts’ first-ever national digital platform, Digital Cookie 1.0 gave girls the opportunity to sell cookies via website or mobile app. Bringing 21st century technology to the classic piece of Americana that is the Girl Scout Cookie Program, this initiative was a first step in preparing girls to be leaders in the high-tech, fast-paced, e-commerce world of today. As the 2015–2016 Girl Scout Cookie season gets underway, girls from Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama are excited to embrace another cookie season using the Digital Cookie mobile application, which lets girls take in-person orders using a unique mobile app, allowing for credit card processing and direct shipping, in addition to directing customers to a transaction-based website where cookies can be purchased. The cookie-selling season begins December 21 and will also be introducing Cookie Booth Drive-Thru sales for those on the go! For information about GSSA’s 2015–2016 cookie season, such as where to locate the nearest Cookie Booth including Drive-Thru Booths, visit www.girlscoutssa.org/cookies or call 800-239-6636.
Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre Proudly Announces Auditions to 3rd Annual Theatre at the Bluff Musical
Directed by Erin Langley and David Redman Scott; Choreographed by Raley Zofko BYE BYE BIRDIE is one of the most captivating musical shows of our time. It is a satire crafted with the fondest affection telling the story of a rock and roll singer who is about to be inducted into the army. An English Teacher, What Did I Ever See in Him?, Put on a Happy Face, One Boy, A Lot of Livin’ to Do, Kids, Rosie and Spanish Rose are musical theatre classics. This is the tops in imagination and good old-fashioned fun. Tuesday, January 19th: 4-6pm or Thursday, January 21st: 6-8pm Audition Location: Church of the Apostles, 7159 McIntyre Street, Fairhope 3rd graders through adults are welcome to audition. To audition, please prepare 16 bars of a musical theatre song. You may bring your own accompaniment on an ipod or you may bring sheet music for our accompanist. No CD player will be provided. You must perform with accompaniment; no a capella singing will be permitted. Once you audition, you MAY be asked to attend callbacks. Callbacks will be held Saturday, January 23rd and are mandatory. *Please note, our first two rehearsals will be held on January 25 & 26. There will be NO rehearsals between Feb. 1-11. Performances will take place May 5-7 at 7:30pm at the Henry George Park (The bluff above the Fairhope Pier.) A rain date will be scheduled for May 8.
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
It’s Mardi Gras Time! Yelling for moon pies, wrestling over beads, dancing with the marching bands, and running to catch the parade multiple times a few blocks over are just a few of the most enduring memories of my childhood and Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras in Mobile and on the Eastern Shore has a storied tradition and today we’ll talk about a brief history, some differences between Mobile and Eastern Shore parades, some tips on catching the best stuff, and some easy safety plans for you and your family. Mardi Gras was, of course, started in Mobile (long before New Orleans) way back in 1703 as a festival called Boeuf Gras, which is French for Fatted Ox! However the first inklings of the Mardi Gras as we know it today with official organizations had their first parade in 1840. Then, in 1866, Joseph Stillwell Cain donned full Chickasaw Indian regalia and paraded to boost the morale of the city during the Civil war. Now we honor him on the Sunday before Fat Tuesday with the infamous Joe Cain Day parade. Mardi Gras in Mobile has evolved over the years to include multiple societies, complete with parades and formal balls prior to the
Eastern Shore Parents I January 2016
Lenten season which starts the next day on Ash Wednesday. In addition to the Mobile scene, Mardi Gras has expanded to include all of Mobile and Baldwin Counties. However, there are a few differences between Mobile and the surrounding areas. Mobile is much larger in terms of the individual parades, float size, bands, and the amount of throws you catch. But with this bounty comes bigger crowds and more traffic. The non-Mobile areas tend to feature smaller parades and floats, less bands and potentially less throws, but are much less crowded and very family friendly. On the Eastern Shore there are multiple parades in Fairhope, Daphne, Foley and at the Gulf. Now, for those who are new to the area, there are some tricks to catching the good stuff. The most common throws are moon pies and beads, so let the riders know what you want. As a rider and a pediatrician, I have a sympathetic eye for kids—so hold them up and you will be rewarded. If you know a rider in a specific parade, then make a sign and make it big. It’s almost impossible to pick out individuals in a crowd of jumping and
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cheering people. And if you see someone with a poster, get near them; you will catch a lot of misfired throws. Last, but not least, us riders like a challenge, so anyone with a funny poster or on a balcony will get pelted. Of course, Mardi Gras cannot be enjoyed unless you follow some simple rules. First of all, the parades on the Eastern Shore have few if any barricades. Therefore children can jump out in front of vehicles and floats really easily. Oftentimes good throws will get stuck in the middle of the road, but please wait until the parade is over to collect the goodies. And have a safety plan in case anyone gets lost. Usually meeting at the car or on a certain corner are good plans. So, please enjoy Mardi Gras, but be safe. You can learn all about the history and scheduling of this wonderful celebration on the internet by looking for “History of Mobile Mardi Gras”. 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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Hats Off to Drugs atAutauga WJC County Schools Robertsdale Students Learn W. J. Carroll Intermediate 7 Habits of Highly Effective School spent Red Ribbon Week enjoying themed days People
that showed how important it is to keep drugs out of one’s life. Some of Mrs. Jennifer Curenton’s fifth graders celebrated Hats off to Drugs! by showing off their creative chapeaus. From left are Julianna Lambeth, Maggie McVay, Daylyn Fowler, Rey Caudill, and Grace Cole.
Gulf Shores Students Create Giant Christmas Trees
As a Leader in Me school, Robertsdale Elementary students are learning the "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" Thanksgiving turkeystyle. Here we have four of our students who are pictured with a "Seven Habit" turkey with each of the seven habits portrayed on a turkey feather.
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Orange Beach Elementary Students Earn Honors in Calendar Competition
The second graders in Kristina McClay’s art class at Gulf Shores Elementary are creating giant Christmas trees out of individual Christmas trees they made in art class. It’s a beautiful way to bring Christmas cheer to each second grade classroom. Pictured l to r: Griffin Dumelow and Lily Killough show off their class Christmas tree.
OBES participated recently in the Alabama Marine Resources Youth Art Calendar Competition, and four student leaders earned honors! Pictured left to right: Maddox Randall (Honorable Mention), Lynden Graves (District Winner), Tripp Carter (Honorable Mention). Not Pictured: Bryce Collins (Honorable Mention).
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Spanish Fort Middle School Collects Toys for Tots
Spanish Fort Middle School was proud to partner with Toys for Tots this year. Students collected 790 toys to donate this Christmas. The Toys for Tots drive is sponsored by the Student Government Association, sponsored by Heather Price. Because students brought in so many new toys, Principal Oliver Sinclair awarded them a Pajama Day on December 18.
Robertsdale Students Win Honorable Mention Award for Calendar Contest
Congratulations to these two Robertsdale Elementary students for winning an Honorable Mention award for the 2016-2017 Marine Calendar! Eastern Shore Parents I January 2016
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Gulf Shores Middle School Teacher of the Year
For the 2015-2016 school year, the teachers at Gulf Shores Middle School voted Mrs. Baldwin as Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Baldwin was born in Mobile and moved to Gulf Shores with her husband about three years ago. She graduated from Spring Hill College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education-English and is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction/Instructional Technology at the University of West Florida. After she gets her Master’s Degree, she plans on following her goal of getting her Doctorate. In the future, she would like to teach at the college level preparing future educators. Outside of teaching, Mrs. Baldwin enjoys reading and writing. Although she does not have a lot of time during the school year to read leisurely, over the summer break, she tries to read almost every day. She also likes to stay in shape with Crossfit because it allows her to escape from the busyness of school and to have balance in life. She remarked that her being voted for teacher of the year had nothing to do with herself it had everything to do with her students, her colleagues, her teacher mentors, and the teachers that she connects with worldwide. Over the past few years, she has established meaningful relationships with her fellow colleagues. Mrs. Baldwin shared, “The exchanging of ideas and collaboration and connections with my co-workers has helped me grow as an educator.”
Newton Sixth Graders Produce FEEF Video
A star-studded movie premiere was held at J. Larry Newton School to mark the release of the sixth grade GEP students’ Breaking News Reel! Mrs. Wiles’s class was approached by FEEF to create a video to promote the 28th Annual Mayor’s Golf Tournament held on March 17th, 2016 at Quail Creek. The students, with the help of their teacher and Mr. Robert Normand, produced a five-minute news broadcast on the great work that FEEF facilitates in Fairhope schools and their fundraiser on St. Patrick’s day next year. The intrepid journalists reported from FEEF projects at The Pelican’s Nest, Fairhope High School, and Newton School’s Science Lab. The audience included movie stars (sixth grade students) and movie executives (Mr. Erik Nist, Golf Tournament co-chair and Mrs. Patrice Krueger, Newton principal!).
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Autauga County Schools Bay Minette Students Create with Legos
Project Jubilee gifted students at Bay Minette Elementary and Intermediate Schools recently enjoyed a visit from Bricks-4-Kidz. The students employed STEM skills while building with Lego bricks. The Project Jubilee classes, taught by Pam Hartner and Debra Thompson, recently completed a study of Australia, so they created a moving kangaroo. The students are beginning a CSI study, so they also created a complicated DNA strand with a motorized rotating base. This challenging and exciting activity was funded by a teacher grant from North Baldwin Coalition for Excellence in Education. BMES and BMIS students appreciate this opportunity!
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Please send your School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com.
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Fairhope Elementary Students Perform Surgery on Words
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First grade students in Mrs. Haley Norris’ classroom from Fairhope Elementary have been learning about contractions. As a culminating activity they performed surgery on words, turning them into contractions!
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Orange Beach Peer Helper Food Drive Challenge
Orange Beach Marlin Ambassador Peer Helpers held an Auburn/Alabama food drive challenge November 16-20. Students, teachers, families and community members donated about 750 nonperishable food items. Both teams were strongly supported but when the count was made ALABAMA came out on top. Thank you to everyone for the generous donations. All items donated will go to the Christian Service Center, our local food bank site. Pictured are Luke Smith, John Kellon Pope, Baylee Grace Taylor, Courtney Florzyk, Ava Tobiassen, Olivia Annan, Makenna Claypool, Sydney Barnett, Brooke Gober, Jud Keel.
Fairhope HS Law Class Visits County Courthouse
Recently, Ms. Davis’ law class at Fairhope High School took a field trip to the County Courthouse in Bay Minette. The law students sat in on a criminal case and also had the opportunity to tour the county jail. The students also had the pleasure of meeting Baldwin County’s sheriff Hoss Mack. Front row- Tierra white, Caleb Rogers, Sheriff, Caroline Smith, Jodie Manuel, Jules Dinardi, Madison Greene. 2nd row- Brendan Stanley, Sadie Fowler, Sydney Belyeu, Ryo Koitabashi, Leticia Nicholas, Abbie Beitler, Killian Detemple, Levi Nichols, Sydney Lancaster, Josh Weston, Becca Grimes, Mary Williams, Jill Johnson, Sgt. Kols. 3rd row- Asia Harris, Antonio Bracy, George Santos, Jared Yenewine, Jason Stallings, Griffin Gaunt, Chris Porter, Stevie Mixon, Jack Henson, Chase Sedlack.
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Autauga County SchoolsLeaders of the Month at W. J. Carroll
W J Carroll Intermediate recently recognized their Leaders of the Month for their leadership roles during the school day. Students were also treated with a party in the school’s Trojan Room which is sponsored by PTO. Pictured in no particular order are Maggie Walding, Cameron Sharpston, Blayklee Swann, Brandon Schlautman, Emily Mercer, Jack Rigdon, Blakleigh Stephens, Tyler Sasser, Kacey Quinnelly, Bryar Oberkirch, Mikey Tolbert, Lydia Carlton, Takira Burt, Thaddeus Willoughby, Khi’Yana Jones, Miles Gibson, Caleb Thomas, Alex Davis, Meghan Stephens, Austin Strickland, Cole Wilson, Maggie McVay, J. T. Lee, Taylor Hunt, Abigail Carlson, Lili Kelly, Sy McNeer, Khair Snowden, Chayndlar Anderson, Alexis Gonzalas, Ben Stephens, Shannon Carroll, Landen Stinnett, Maleeha Tofiqul, Isabella Hanner, Alasia Anderson and DeMia James.
Shipbuilding at Robertsdale Elementary
Robertsdale Elementary third grade students enjoyed a STEM science activity in which they were to construct a ship from modeling clay, straws, and pipe cleaners. This is the team whose ship stayed afloat the longest amount of time. The girls won free homework passes.
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Gulf Shores Middle School Fundraisers
During the month of November, GSMS students raised money for two wonderful causes: Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Epilepsy Awareness. Mrs. Barnes and the PTSO did a wonderful job leading these fundraisers and bringing awareness to our students and the world. We are extremely proud of our school for doing such a great job raising much needed money for research as well as awareness for these two wonderful causes! Go Dolphins! Pictured, top photo: Tina Barnes and Grace Michaelis. Pictured, bottom photo: Tina Barnes, Erin Travis, and Cambrie Heptinstall.
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Autauga County Schools Spanish Fort Students Visit Eastern Shore Art Center
The Eastern Shore Art Center hosted a field trip group of 4th graders from Spanish Fort Elementary. They created pottery with Maria Spies, studied the art of our exhibiting artist, Ardith Goodwin, and painted poppies modeled after our "Poppies For Veterans" project. Community Outreach Director, Nancy Raia, led them in a successful dialogue about the meaning of Ardith's works-- and the stories and symbols behind them. "We went into the studio and they imagined themselves (or as a character) as a king or queen of their kingdom and what they ruled over, what their gifts where being used for. They were exciting to watch develop their thinking!"-Raia. Pictured, Virginia Ellis, Kate Graham, Ryann Turner.
Bay Minette Raises Money for St. Jude’s
Bay Minette Intermediate School students in Heather Sims’ fifth grade class raised money for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital recently by beautifying the school with a mural of “Helping Hands.” BMIS students paid to have their handprints added to the mural and the proceeds went to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
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New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.
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Fractions at Gulf Shores Elementary
Students in 5th grade at Gulf Shores Elementary School are becoming proficient at adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators. They have learned that the most efficient way to add and subtract is to make equivalent fractions with common denominators. They admit it is like juggling many different thoughts or math concepts all at once. But they are continuing to work diligently on increasing their understanding of this difficult concept! Pictured Kaysheri Haffner and Beckham Smith are playing “Fraction Tracks” in which they add and subtract fractions to earn points.
Spanish Fort Middle School Hosts Veterans Day Program
Spanish Fort Middle School hosted their annual Veterans Day Program on Friday, November 6. The event is planned by SFMS’s Beta Club sponsors, Cheramie Jordan and Beverly Floyd. Students invited their friends and relatives to attend the event. Adding to the program visually, students in Mr. Ross Moore’s Tech Class made documentary videos by interviewing Veterans. (The link to the video is on the school website.) The choir and band also performed for the Veterans. The guest speaker was Marine Nathan Cox who spoke to the students about his tours in Iraq. One Veteran said, “There is no such thing as a bad Veterans Day Program, but SFMS’s program is one of the best I have ever attended.”
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Autauga CountyW. Schools J. Carroll Holds Canned Food Drive
W. J. Carroll Intermediate School’s National Elementary Honor Society sponsored a canned food drive the week before Thanksgiving break. Students brought in cans for either their class decorated Alabama or Auburn box. Although the race was close, Alabama did come out ahead. In total, students donated almost 1200 cans for Prodisee Pantry with Mrs. Elaine Herring’s fifth grade class bringing in more than any other on campus. In no particular order are Brandon HowardHerrion, John Hamner, Thomas Walding, as well as Mr. Jason Babb and Mr. Donovan Scott from Prodisee Pantry.
Orange Beach Elementary Spelling Bee Winners
Congratulations to OBES Spelling Bee winners. Left to right Isaac Cardwell (3rd place), Marshall Egbert (2nd place), Grace McGowan (1st place).
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Newton Holds First National Elementary Honor Society Induction
Outstanding fifth and sixth grade Newton students were recognized on November 13th during the school’s first National Elementary Honor Society induction. The National Elementary Honor Society (NEHS) is a school-based program recognizing outstanding elementary students and engaging them in the meaningful development of leadership skills and a personal understanding of the value of service. More than just an honor roll, NEHS gives schools a means of identifying high-achieving students who have an understanding of what it means to be a responsible student and citizen in our world today. Congressman Bradley Byrne, who praised their commitment to scholarship, responsibility, leadership, and service, addressed J. Larry Newton NEHS inductees. The event was attended by students, faculty, and parents, and was followed by a reception for the new NEHS members and their families. Mrs. Susan Clinton, Newton NEHS advisor, organized the program and both she and Principal Patrice Krueger expressed pride in the NEHS inductees for their high academic and personal standards. Pictured: Congressman Bradley Byrne, Principal Patrice Krueger, and Superintendent Eddie Tyler.
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Gulf Shores Middle School Cheerleaders Perform at Auburn Game
The Gulf Shores Middle School Cheerleaders were fortunate to participate in the Auburn University 9th Annual Halftime Spirit Extravaganza. It was a phenomenal opportunity to visit a place of higher education as well as showcase the talent of our school's cheerleading squad. The girls performed a halftime dance in front of approximately 80,000 plus football fans. Cheerleaders pictured: Kirby Ard; Madalyn Armstrong; Leanna Bolton; Veronica Chapman; Sarah Condo; Mackenzie Cooper; Hannah Hoover; Abigail Jones; Kelsey Jones; Kendall Kelly; Bayli Manning; Jessica Stevens; Bella Turner.
Orange Beach Elementary Hosts Training For Educators
Orange Beach Elementary School was honored to host a 2-day training on 11/18/15 and 11/19/15 for The Leader in Me 7 Habits for Educators Certification. 36 educators from 5 different schools and 2 different counties “Synergized” (Habit #6) for professional development and to continue to learn more about the implementation of the leadership model, The Leader in Me, and “Inspiring Greatness, One Child at a Time.”
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Spanish Fort Middle Teacher Selected for Fellows Program
Spanish Fort Middle School teacher Beverly Floyd was recently chosen to represent our district in the Network of Alabama Teacher Fellows program. Mrs. Floyd will serve for two years as a liaison with educators and policy makers from across the state. She will meet with the State Board of Education for the first time on December 10, 2015. Congratulations, Mrs. Floyd!
Baldwin County HS Teacher of the Year
Baldwin County High School teacher Judy Bridges has been selected by her peers as the Teacher of the Year. The announcement came in a big way as members of the band and the student body surprised her during class to make the presentation. Among many other tasks, Mrs. Bridges is one of the sponsors for the National Honor Society. Principal Craig Smith also presented her with flowers, a certificate and a gift card.
1st Grade Math Whiz at GSES
Congratulations to Larson Chafin in Ms. Angie Austin's 1st grade class at Gulf Shores Elementary School! He completed all 10 fact fluency levels to be a Math Whiz!
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Autauga CountySilverhill Schools Leaders of the Month
Silverhill Elementary School’s Leaders of the Month for December are being recognized for practicing Habit 3 – Put First Things First. Pictured in no particular order are: Constanza Salter, Jarica Blouin, Abraham Faiupu, Matthew Manning, Conner Cruthird, Anna Dobbins, Caden Vice, Christian Dobbins, Mattie Burnette, Nalia DeWalt, Levi Lipscomb, Perrie Johnson, Elana Quick, Katilyn Hernandez, Wyatt Morton, Parker Shreves, Keagan Kucera, Gabby Harper, Francisco Aparicio, Hannah Harrison, and Tarrah Crouch. Not pictured; Jackson Fitzhugh.
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Spanish Fort Middle School Students Thinking About College
Students in Josie Calloway’s Career Prep class were visited by The University of South Alabama’s Baldwin County Admissions Counselor, Magan Bordon. Students learned about the importance of starting to prepare for college when they start 9th grade and what the difference in pay is by earning your college diploma.
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W. J. Carroll Readers
W. J. Carroll Intermediate School recently celebrated student reading achievements during their Fall Reading Assembly. Every book a student reads earns the student points based on the difficulty level as well as comprehension. Class awards were given for highest points earned, highest comprehension, fewest at risk, and others. Individual students were recognized for points earned from the ten point club to those that earned over 100 points or more. Pictured are some of Mrs. Debbie Toth’s sixth graders who won highest points for their grade level. In no particular order are Brianna Watkins, Alexis Ritt, Jaelynn Purdy, Che’myiah Brown, Kaiyah Reed, Khaleb Strother, Makayla Collins, and Mrs. Debbie Toth.
Big Race at Robertsdale Elementary
Robertsdale Elementary held its annual Big Race on Friday, November 20. PK-6th grade students competed with their respective grade levels. Awards will be given at our annual awards celebration in the spring.
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AutaugaBayshore County Schools Christian School Students
Participate in All-State Choral Festival
Bayshore Christian School students, Ian Doremus, Abbie Haygood, Martha Hollowell and Maddie Walsh auditioned and were selected from students across the state to participate in the All-State Choral Festival. This festival is a three-day event that takes place at Samford University in Birmingham. It is an opportunity for students with outstanding musical ability and initiative to perform choral literature of the highest quality under the direction of nationally recognized choral clinicians. The event culminates in a professionally recorded concert. Congratulations to these four BCS students for being selected for this honor, and also to Mrs. Ellen Jones and Mrs. Mary Katherine Kilgore for their leadership in preparing the students!
Newton Student Wins VFW Essay Competition
Sixth grade Newton GEP students entered the 2015-16 Patriot’s Pen youth essay competition held by Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW.) The essay contest encourages sixth through eighth grade students to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by drafting a 300- to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. This year’s theme, “What Freedom Means to Me”, gave Mrs. Wiles’s students the opportunity to reflect on their liberty, which is so often taken for granted. The VFW Post 5660 announced three winners from the Eastern Shore area which included Newton student, Ryan Fendley. Ryan and the other winners will each receive a $100 prize and will be advanced to the local VFW District for judging. As the winner advances from District to State to National, a prize is awarded at each level. The National winner will receive $5000! Good luck, Ryan!
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Gulf Shores Middle School Students Participate in County Ornament Contest
The Gulf Shores Middle School art students participated in the Baldwin County Sewer Service Ornament Contest. The 7th grade winner was Michele Barber and the 8th grade winner was Sarah Guthrie. The runner ups were: 7th grade: Veronica Chapman, Kimberly Sharp and Hannah Sullivan, 8th grade: Chloe Knight, Emily Hammac and Sierra McNeil. The 8th grade ornaments were displayed on a Christmas tree in Foley Park and the 7th grade ornaments were displayed on a Christmas tree at the Blake in Malbis. The two top winners received $100 and $1,000 went to the school! The runner ups received goody bags. All of the student's ornaments were very creative and all
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incorporated the BCSS mascot Crystal Clean. *not pictured: Chloe Knight.
Christmas Cookie Decorating at Robertsdale
Students at Robertsdale Elementary were invited to a day of decorating cookies along with pictures and pancakes with Santa Bear. Fun was had by all participants as this turned out to be a huge event for our school and community. The event was sponsored by our PTO.
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Autauga County Schools
Gulf Shores Students Study Ocean and Beaches
Gulf Shores Project Jubilee 3rd and 5th grades are studying the ocean and beaches. Park Ranger Denise McInturff and Ms. Deborah Evans shared information about sea turtles and the beach mouse with both grades. Some of the 3rd grade students compared the size of their head with the size of the sea turtle’s head. Pictured clockwise from bottom left: Park Ranger McInturff, Caiden Dennis, John Paul Hicks, Sarah Heyer, and Emma Hall.
Bay Minette Participates in Canned Food Drive
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Bay Minette Elementary School donated 1,062 canned good items to the North Baldwin White Christmas program. The school held an Iron Bowl food drive pitting fans of the Auburn Tigers against fans of the Alabama Crimson Tide. It was close but Auburn edged out Alabama to claim victory. Auburn fans brought in 548 cans -- just 27 cans more than the Tide. Cathy Phillips' third class brought in the most at 153. Faye Robinson with White Christmas stopped by to collect the donations. She is assisted by Lariah Pogue, JaCaleb Rivers, Austin Hardy, Alex Newton, Ben Selph and Jada Gray.
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W. J. Carroll Leaders of the Month of November
W. J. Carroll proudly recognized their Leaders of the Month for displaying positive character during the month of November. The school’s PTO committee sponsored a pizza party in the Trojan Room for the students. In no particular order are Lily Tavarez, Daniel Flynn, Alexandra Brousseau, Graham Robb, Morgan Bias, Roman Anderson, Bridger Everette, Lily Elser, Simon Hutcheson, Layla Miller, Ashlynn Jenkins, Landon McIntyre, Joseph Alves, Ashleigh Harrub, MaKhaylyn Mosley, Ethan Clark, Emma Wahlers, Owen Green, Isabella Chircop, William Bradley, Ethan Wooley, Kyara Dale, Paige Nolte, Jon Hymel, Aaron Brinkmeiser, Emma Melton, Lexi Dedeaux, Aidan Breakfield, Israel Tinngero-Neave, Makayla Witherington, Kyllie Martin, Alex Weir, Cameron McCrary, Kaitlyn Bailey, Lance Tran, Daniel Rees, Nayelis Gonzalaz, Savannah Johnson, Jim Stephens and Anthony Wells.
Fairhope HS FBLA Holds Canned Food Drive The Fairhope High School Future Business Leaders of America sponsored a canned food drive to help area families during the holiday season. FBLA students collected 5209 cans in the weeklong school challenge, the most successful drive to date. The FBLA faculty sponsor is Kristie Davis.
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Autauga County Schools Daphne Elementary Charlie Brown Puppet Show
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Students from Daphne Elementary were treated to a very special showing of the Charlie Brown Christmas Story as Mrs. Peturis’ third grade students used puppets to entertain and retell the story.
Stapleton Elementary Spelling Bee Winners
Please send your School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com.
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Sephie Milligan, right, won the spelling bee at Stapleton Elementary. Emily Byrd, left, was the runner-up. Sephie now advances to the county-wide competition.
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Enrolling ages 2-4 Full Time and Part Time care available Hours 7:00-5:30 and 9:00-1:00
Bayshore Christian School Students Recognized in Duke TIP
Each year the Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP) recognizes 7th grade students who have demonstrated advanced aptitudes on grade-level standardized assessments. Bayshore Christian School had two students, Cassidy Granger and Lydia Walsh, who posted scores at or above the 95th percentile in standardized tests administered last spring. Congratulations to Cassidy and Lydia as well as their parents upon being awarded admittance into the Duke TIP process.
Registration for
Sharing God's Love
Fall 2016 begins Monday, February 1st
Daphne United Methodist Preschool 626-3606 • preschool@dumc.org 2401 Main Street in Daphne Next to Daphne Elementary School
Little Flower Principal Appreciation Day
Ms. Alesa Weiskopf, principal at Little Flower Catholic School, was honored by students and faculty on Principal's Appreciation Day. Flowers, sweet treats and a poster with notes of affection were part of the day. Although principals are appreciated every day, this day was set aside for special recognition and expressions of affection for a job well done. Students joining Ms. Weiskopf in front of the banner full of notes are (back left) Angel Trotter; (front row) Chelsey Latner, Alisa Frank, and David Dunay.
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Autauga County Schools
City of Hope Church Donates to Robertsdale Elementary School
City of Hope Church donated seventy seven bicycles to Robertsdale Elementary students. A workday was held on Saturday, December 5. Around 40 volunteers met at school and assembled the bikes in our multipurpose room. We thank the church for its generous donation in making Christmas special for many of our students.
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Baldwin County HS Honor Society Holds Food Drive for Prodisee Pantry
Members of the National Honor Society at Baldwin County High School held a scavenger hunt food drive to collect donations of non-perishable food items for the Prodisee Pantry. Recently the students delivered the items to the pantry and helped sort and organize donations at the Prodisee Pantry. They also participated in the distribution of food to members of the community. Principal Craig Smith served as the bus driver and also participated in the sorting process.
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J. Larry Newton Holds Yankee Candle Fundraiser
J. Larry Newton’s PTO raised nearly $1,600 for the school during their recent Yankee Candle fundraiser. The three top-sellers were each presented with an iTunes gift card by Newton principal, Patrice Krueger. The student who recorded the most sales was third-grader Christian Lindell, who received a $25 gift card. The two runners up were Sienna Langley and Madison Laubenthal. Both students were presented with $15 iTunes gift cards. The top-selling class was Mrs. Van Hauter’s firstgraders who will be treated to an Italian ice party! Great job, Newton students! Top sellers with Mrs. Krueger, Newton Principal.
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WJC Red Ribbon Leader Collects Stuffed Animals for Child Advocacy Center
W. J. Carroll Intermediate School’s Red Ribbon Leader sixth grader Ella Kate Hewes recently completed her Red Ribbon Project. Titled “Project Plush”, Ella Kate led a stuffed animal drive encouraging students to bring in stuffed animals to donate to the Child Advocacy Center. The final count was 272 stuffed animals of all shapes, sizes, and types. Ella Kate, a student in Mrs. Toth’s class, said she wanted to give Christmas to those who may not receive it.
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their healthcare is. Healthcare as amazing as their potential
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Autauga County Schools Intermediate School’s Fairhope Crown of Character Recipients
These are Fairhope Intermediate Schools's first quarter Crown of Character recipients. Front row - left to right Kelsey Cooper, Madeline Dicksey, Sage Jernigan, Madeline Markey, Bailey Beck, Winston Smith, Abe Solomon, Whieldon Smith. Back row - left to right Lillie Mitchell , Foster Ross, Pierce Horton, Copeland Bowman, Blaine Metzger, Claire Wiggins, Caden Creel, Sebastian Grieves, Kathryn Cook.
Bay Minette Middle School Spelling Bee Winners
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Ariel White is the new spelling bee champ at Bay Minette Middle School. The school held its spelling bee on Dec. 4. Participants included, from left, back row, Tyler Bright, Coniah Bodiford; front row, winner Ariel White, Chason Hundley, runner-up Amelia Dute and Sherraliegh Barr. Way to go!
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Spanish Fort HS Teacher of the Year
Congratulations to Starla Werther, Spanish Fort High School's 2015/16 Teacher of the Year! Ms. Werther teaches 10th grade English and Oral Communications. This is her fifth year teaching at Spanish Fort, but she has been an educator for 15 years. She has always taught English Language Arts and developed a love for literature as a young child. She loved the rich experiences and adventures she could find in a book and that, along with some amazing teachers, inspired her to become a teacher herself. She wanted to share what she loved and help others find a passion for reading as well. Ms. Werther was truly humbled and felt honored to be chosen as the SFHS Teacher of the Year. She has touched the lives of so many students and continues to be an inspiration to all of us! Congratulations, Ms. Starla Werther!
Delta Elementary Peer Helpers Spread Christmas Cheer
Peer Helpers at Delta Elementary School have worked hard to spread the Christmas cheer. The Peer Helpers raised money to help fellow students this Christmas. They also enjoyed a special field trip to sing Christmas Carols at Oakwood Nursing Home and brought along homemade Christmas cards. The students also delivered 500 books to the Ann Briggs Foundation at the USA Children's & Women's Hospital and Coke tabs to the Ronald McDonald House. The books were donated in memory of Ann Briggs McCullough, the daughter of Josh and Abbie McCullough. The Peer Helpers have learned a lot of important life lessons about community service and how to be thankful for their many blessings. Delta Peer Helpers sponsors are Dawn Johnson and Darlene DeFilippi.
Gulf Shores Middle Schoolers Learn “Jingle Bell Rock� in Sign Language Students at Gulf Shores Middle School have been learning American Sign Language. For the holidays, they learned to sign "Jingle Bell Rock" and would like to share it with you! Please check out the video here: https://youtube/ygXpv7eYqAE
PA Pet ad.qxp_Layout 1 7/20/15 6:05 PM Page 1
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Autauga County Schools
Baldwin County High School Students Participate in Model United Nations
Baldwin County High School had 25 students take part in the annual Baldwin County Model United Nations, held Dec. 1-2 at Fairhope Civic Center. During the event students debated topics such as The Refugee Crisis, ISIS, and Organ Trafficking. The Model UN brings high school students together to play the roles of the United Nations. Students serve as delegates, diplomats and other leadership positions representing countries from around the world. Three BCHS students – Madeline Seale, Allison Jones and Kylie Golden -- were selected for the Organizational Team Council as committee chairs for Security Council and Social/Humanitarian (SOCHUM). Because of their hard work and dedication to the program, seniors Kylie Golden and Madeline Seale were awarded their very own gavel. This was Kylie’s fourth year to participate and Madeline’s third. Madeline Seale was also awarded Premier Chair by her fellow OT Council Members and judges. Sophomore Cameron Williams came home with two awards: Premier Delegate and Outstanding Delegate for Malaysia Security Council. This marks the second year in a row that Cameron has received these awards. Please Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com.
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Fairhope HS FCCLA Celebrates the Season
Fairhope High FCCLA is enjoying the spirit of the season. Club officers spent a month baking gingerbread houses for members. At the December meeting the members decorated the houses to share with their families… and we had a surprise visit from the Santa Baby! The girls enjoyed their Snapchats and Instagrams with the man of the hour!
Daphne Elementary Visits Wales West
On a recent field trip to Wales West Railroad, Mrs. Baas’ Kindergarten Class took a magical train ride to the North Pole complete with a visit from Santa.
Bay Minette Intermediate School Spelling Bee Winners
Jillian Dute won the top speller title in this year’s Bay Minette Intermediate School Spelling Bee. The Scripps National Spelling Bee was begun by nine newspapers in 1925 and has run annually except for the World War II years of 1943-45. Jillian is a fifth grader in Winnifred Riley’s class at BMIS and she is the daughter of Aimee and Jeff Dute of Bay Minette. The winning word was “winsome.” Jillian will represent BMIS at the county Spelling Bee in Loxley on February 4th. Jillian Dute 1st place and Emma Stuart runner up in this year’s BMIS Spelling Bee.
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Autauga County Native Schools American Studies at Fairhope Elementary
Mr. Chris Miller’s third grade class from Fairhope Elementary School studied Native American tribes of North America. They reported on shelter, food, clothing, climate, location, and natural resources. They built model shelters, cooked and brought in food, and wore native american clothing. The students worked hard and enjoyed this informative hands-on project.
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Fairhope Intermediate School Provides Wish List Items for Ronald McDonald House
The 5th graded classes of Mrs. Sutley, Mrs. Theis, Mrs. McKey, and Mrs. Thompson from Fairhope Intermediate School decided on a class Christmas Charity Project. Students brought in items off the "Wish List" from the Ronald McDonald House. Students from these classes collected hundreds of items that guests can use while staying at the house.
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W. J. Carroll Students Donate Items to Animal Shelter
W. J. Carroll Intermediate School’s Student Government Association sponsored a school donation drive for the Daphne Animal Shelter. They collected over 200 items including blankets, food, litter and treats for the animals. The students took a walking field trip to deliver the items to the shelter. They also were able to visit the animals. Standing with Daphne Animal Shelter employee Glenda Gardner are, in no particular order, Ben Stephens, Brinkley King, Abigail Morrow, Brandon Hyde, Mariah Gonzales, Alexis Gonzales, Ryan Carraway, Maggie McVay, Elizabeth Stewart, Cole Wilson, Braxton Bradley, Ashley Harrub, Hayden
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Middlebrooks, JT Lee, Mikey Tolbert, Connor Lowe, Cara Mae Salmon, Tyler Walker, Savannah Johnson, Jordan Younger, Lillie Elser, Isabella Jones, Sunny Blackwood, Jake West, Kevin Ng, Wade Calhoun, Paige Vipperman, Morgan Bias, Tyler Sasser, Alyson Jenkins, and Landen Stinnet.
Spanish Fort Volleyball Players Named to All County Team
Congratulations to the players from Spanish Fort High School that were named to the All County Team. These players helped lead Spanish Fort to the school’s first state championship in volleyball and a record setting season. Spanish Fort ended the season with a record of 55-5. The players that were all county for volleyball include: Victoria Morris, Maegan Parrillo, Taylor Fontenelle, Savannah Lee, Brianna Rider, Elise Polio, Anna Claire Whaley, Carley Hamric.
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Autauga County Schools
B.L.A.S.T. Club Holds Birthday Party for Jesus
Students in the B.L.A.S.T. club, sponsored by New Life Baptist Church, that meets on Thursday afternoons in the Bay Minette Intermediate Library, celebrated Christmas with a birthday party for Jesus. 116 children attached notes to balloons and released them to heaven as a Christmas message to God.
Daphne Elementary Christmas Program
The third grade choir along with kindergarten students from Daphne Elementary performed seasonal songs at the DES Christmas PTO program. The students and parents were also treated to a reading of “’Twas The Night Before Christmas” by a very special visitor.
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Please Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com.
Marshall Shoemaker, M.D., and staff
Welcome
Jessica Jones, M.D.
Jessica Jones, M.D. Now accepting patients.
Pictured left to right: Marshall Shoemaker, M.D.; Jessica Jones, M.D.; Heather Talbot, Nurse Practitioner; Carla S. Corte, Nurse Practitioner
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Bayshore Christian School Mock Trial Class Wins Competition
The Alabama Youth in Government Judicial Competition is an annual event for Mock Trial teams from schools across the State of Alabama. On November 7-9, Bayshore Christian School's Mock Trial class, taught by Mr. Patrick Collins, attended this competition at the State and Federal courthouses in Montgomery. Twenty-three teams from schools such as UMS-Wright, Spain Park, and Oak Mountain offered strong competition, but after two days of trial competition, the BCS team came out on top, placing first in all four categories! This is the first time Bayshore has fielded a Mock Trial team in any competition, and we are very proud of their accomplishments. Congratulations to Bayshore's Mock Trial Team: Kris Aubrey, Chris Bishop, Charlie Brock, Sophia Colbert, Jacob Collins, Ian Doremus, Joel Garner, Kevin Kearney, Conner Ramsey, and instructor, Esq. Patrick Collins.
The Christmas Story at Pine Grove Elementary
Some students at Pine Grove Elementary School were treated to a special reading of The Christmas Story. Here, the school's bookkeeper Wanda Gandy reads to Michele Bowman's Pre-K class. Pine Grove Elementary serves students in Pre-Kindergarten through sixth grades.
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9 Apps That Keep Kids Moving Sixty minutes a day. That’s the minimum amount of physical activity recommended for children, 6-17, by the Centers for Disease Control. Some kids meet that goal effortlessly. They can’t wait to walk the dog, belong to a team that practices every afternoon or nag their parents to go on long hikes and bike rides. Other kids need a little encouragement to step away from their electronic devices so they can get active. Now that encouragement comes from the devices themselves. Some very innovative programmers have designed gadgets and apps that promise to make family fitness fun. Which one will be motivating in your household for 2016? Look for an app that intersects with things your family cares about. Here are some suggestions. Just the Facts. Eat-And-Move-O-Matic is a very simple app that answers one question: How many minutes of Activity X will burn the calories in Food Y. This colorful app is easy enough for elementary school kids to understand and use. (Free from the App Store) Move for Good. Charity Miles has arranged for up to a million dollars to be donated to good causes—if people use their app to exercise. Simply download the program, choose a charity, tuck your phone in your pocket and get going. The corporate sponsors kick in a dime for every mile of biking and a quarter for every mile of running. If you exercise together, every phone in the family Eastern Shore Parents I January 2016
can donate to a different cause. (Free from the App Store and Google Play.) Tangible Rewards. Zamzee is a tiny accelerometer that records motion. When the device, which looks like a flash drive, is clipped onto shoes or slipped into a pocket, your child earns points for any physical activity-sweeping the floor, climbing stairs, jumping rope, dancing, etc. Plug Zamzee into a USB and kids can see graphic evidence of how active they’ve been. They also earn points that can be donated to charity or used to purchase virtual or real rewards including apps and games. ($29.95 from Zamzee. com) Batting Balls (or Bugs). Ballstrike and Buglylon turn I-pads and Windows 8 tablets into something that resembles a Kinect at a fraction of the price. Just set the tablet upright on a flat surface, step back and use your body to pop balls (or smash bugs). The app, which has six levels, tracks calories burned and allows your child to share photos of their best moves. (Free from the App Store and Windows) Run for Your Life. Zombies, Run! Isn’t for little kids, but teens who want to stay fit may find this immersive app very motivating. The user maps the course they plan to run, and then the program devises a story about finding supplies for a community besieged by the undead. Periodically, the app announces that zombies are in the vicinity and their noisy breathing makes most runners pick up the pace. The app includes 33 missions and young people can also incorporate their favorite music. ($3.99 at the App Store and GooglePlay) Walk for the World. The Walk is a better choice for teens (and adults) who don’t care to jog. The game, designed in the UK, starts with the premise that a bomb has exploded 48
in the London underground. The only way to save the world is to carry a package from one end of the British Isles to the other, encountering misadventures along the way. The game is intended to cover three months of walking, long enough for most people to get a good habit established. ($2.99 at the App Store and Google Play) Football Fanatics. NFL Play 60 encourages children to get their 60 minutes of activity by running, turning and jumping over virtual obstacles. Kids control the character in the game by holding a phone or table that detects their movements. As they progress, they collect hearts that make the character invincible from the American Heart Association and coins that buy virtual gear from the NFL. Both organizations cooperated to create the game which gives young football fans a fix without risking a concussion. (Free from the App Store and Google Play) Good Form for Athletes. IronKids was developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics to minimize the risk of injuries in young athletes. The 45-minute workout emphasizes the correct way to do exercises that build strength, balance and endurance, so it’s ideal for teens and pre-teens who want to be in good shape for team tryouts. ($3.99 from the App Store) Peer Encouragement—and Competition. Fitocracy makes it very easy to keep track of a fitness routine, especially if includes repetitive exercises such as weightlifting. Users set goals and earn points by achieving them. More important, Fitocracy taps into the power of social media, making it easy to find other people who enjoy the same kind of workout. Teens can learn from those who are more experienced, exchange encouraging words and even challenge others to friendly competition. (Basic level free from the App store and Google Play) Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has been writing Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses to conflict. Visit www.growing-up-online.com to read other columns. @ Copyright, 2015, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.
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Q. The guy who has been my best friend
since grade school recently asked me to loan him $5,000. All I have in savings in $5,000, but I would be willing to give him $1,000. The problem is that while he’s a great friend with a good heart, he’s always getting himself into binds when it comes to money. Do you think I should give him $1,000?
A. If I were in your shoes, and I was going to give this guy a fifth of everything I had, I’d want to know it was going to save his life. From what you’ve said, it sounds like he’s just out of control with his money while you’re trying to save. That being the case, I’m not sure you’d really be helping him. If you want to gift your friend some money, then do it. But there’s no way I’d tell you to give him everything you’ve managed to save. And I certainly wouldn’t do it as a loan. Ask yourself if you believe deep down in your heart that giving this guy $1,000 would truly be a blessing to him or if, by doing it, you’d be acting as an enabler and basically just funding more of his stupidity with money. From what you’ve told me, I think there’s a good chance the answer is the latter. And if that’s the case, you can be a much better
friend by saying you love him enough to not ruin your friendship.
Q. After struggling with it for several years, I finally made the last payment on my Sallie Mae student loans this week. Do you think I should ask for a formal letter stating that it’s officially paid off? A. Congratulations on finally kicking that
old woman out of your house! It feels great, doesn’t it? Sure, it couldn’t hurt anything to write and request formal confirmation that the book on your loans is closed and everything is paid in full. You can do this through email so you’ll have a record of contact, or you can send a certified letter, return receipt requested, through the post office. That way, you’ll have a record they signed for it. Following up on paid-off debts is always a good idea. You don’t want the hassle of possibly having to deal with greedy or incompetent collectors sniffing around three or four years down the road and no way to prove you’re free and clear! Q. My wife and I are on Baby Step 3 of your plan. When we have standard car repairs, I
want to use the emergency fund. She says that kind of thing isn’t an emergency, and we should just put it off as long as possible while saving up to fix the problem. Who’s right?
A. Sorry, you’re both wrong. Cars break. And since no one will invent one that lasts forever and doesn’t break down, standard car repairs shouldn’t be viewed as an emergency. Maintenance and repair of your vehicles are an ongoing expense. It’s just part of owning them. That means you should have a category in your monthly budget for this sort of thing. Now, an engine blowing up or the transmission going out would be an emergency. Hopefully, you’re not talking about something of this magnitude. But you’ve got to rework your budget to where you have something designated each month for car maintenance and repair. That way, you won’t be dipping into your emergency fund just to cover the basic wear and tear that comes with owning a car. Take the next step today, and adequately fund this area so it doesn’t continually come back to bite you in the wallet and sabotage your emergency fund!
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wedding. Good options are a cocktail dress, dressy skirt with a blouse, or a nice pants suit.
Dressing Appropriate for Weddings Most of us have been there or will be there at some point in our lives. You get the invitation in the mail saying you are invited to a wedding, but it’s been a long while since you attended an event like this and you struggle with what to wear, or if you even have anything to wear. Long gone are the days of us being in our 20s where we had several dresses hanging in our closets ready and waiting for the next wedding invitation to make it to our mailbox. Since we are past the days of weekends full of weddings, we can enjoy attending the occasional wedding or two that comes our way every so often. I do love to dress up, but this can be stressful for some and fun for others. Just so you know, I am as formal as you get when it comes to wedding attire. I believe you should dress according to the time and invitation formality. Maybe that’s the stylist in me, or the Southerner... probably both. Either way, here are a few tips on how to dress the part for your next wedding invite.
1- “Black and White Tie” These two are the most formal of all wedding dress codes. Now, these are not
5-”Casual”
that common anymore, but you certainly need to understand, as a guest, what to wear. You should wear a formal dress. Keep your dress in neutral colors - stay away from bright color tones. You might even find a dress with some detail. If you opt for something simple then try adding a clutch or accessories for a little added detail.
2- “Formal” or “Black Tie Optional” Wear a long dress, cocktail dress, or even a dressier romper. Keep your colors neutral and classic... and accessorize.
3- “Beach” or “Outdoor” Dress to impress, but also dress for the elements (sun, sand, scenery, and water). Anything you’d wear to a nice restaurant on a summer day is appropriate, including a summer sundress, Maxi dress, skirt or romper. Still, try to keep it a little dressy.
4- “Semiformal” or “Dressy Casual” Depending on the time of the event, you’ll want to dress somewhere between formal and casual. Wear darker, more formal hues for an evening wedding. Opt for light colors and fabrics for a daytime 51
Dress nicely, no matter what. Even if the wedding is casual, you should dress nicely out of respect for the bride and groom. Jeans, shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops are seldom appropriate, unless called for by the invitation. Wear a summer sundress, Maxi dress, skirt or pants with a nice blouse.
6- Accessories save time and money. Another tip that I have in case you are in a major fashion slump is to find your little black dress hidden in your closet and change up the style with some accessories. For example, a new necklace, clutch, and a fun pair of heels. The same goes for all wedding attire...accessories can really change up a simple style. We can’t always go shopping, so just invest in small pieces and use what you have hanging in your closet. I promise, no one will ever know you wore that dress, skirt or suit when you incorporate these simple changes. Whether you have been to several weddings in the last two years or if you are just getting started, enjoy yourself, your style and all that each wedding has in store.
Laura Handey is an independent clothing consultant in Pike Road, Alabama. You may reach her by email at laura@ centsiblysouthern. com or visit her website and read her blogs at www.centsiblysouthern.com.
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Even if the weather outside is not frightful, the blues can take a parent down any time during the darker months of winter. If you are subject to the holiday blahs, a postholiday crash, or gloomy moods all winter long, this list of blues-busters can come to your emotional rescue. of sleep helps you feel energized and set the There are lots of things you can try to alarm for this amount each night. lift winter doldrums, so never accept feeling down as a foregone conclusion. Improving 5. Let the sky hold itself up for a while. your mood is possible and you and your famSometimes blues are brought on by stress. ily deserve to thrive no matter what the seaThe first thing a son of the year. Of parent can do to course, you cannot What About the Can’t-Get- create some relief control how you feel, is let go of every but you can control Out-Of-Bed Blues? responsibility that is what you do about not yours. Make a how you feel. So get If you are feeling so low that you consisto-do list and then ready to experiment tently don’t want to get out of bed, it’s time cross off everything until you find some to talk to a doctor and a therapist. A doctor you don’t have to do strategies that work can help you recover your chemical health right now. Narrowing for you. and a therapist can help recover your emo- your responsibilities to just the must-dos 1. Be honest with tional health. Schedule regular appointyourself. If you are ments with both types of professionals until can create some immediate relief. feeling down, it’s you regain a consistent stable mood. okay. You’ll bounce 6. Ask for help. back from the Don’t settle for anything less than feeling Don’t be a martyr. blues sooner if you good. If you do not feel good, it’s time to People who feel can admit, at least get help. Shame keeps people from seek- comfortable asking to yourself, that ing help for mood disorders. But when you for and receiving something or some have a family and they depend on you, help are usually things are bothernot sufferers. If you you don’t have the luxury of not taking ing you. You don’t can’t speak up, it’s have to do anything quality care of yourself. If you can’t do it yet, simply try to for yourself, get help initially for your loved time to shake off any identify any sources ones. With the right support, and an ongo- victim tendencies of disappointment or ing program of new habits, you’ll soon be you may have and start standing up for discouragement. taking better care of yourself. Because you yourself. deserve it. We all do. 2. Tell someone you 7. Move some can trust. Never energy. Energy keep the blues to needs to move. If you are feeling down and yourself no matter what the severity. Usunot exercising, then this is an easy fix. Don’t ally the sooner you share your feelings with think about it too much, just move. You can someone you trust, the sooner you experithink later, when you are assessing how ence relief. If no one is available right this much better you feel. minute, write imaginary letters to someone safe in the interim. 8. Avoid alcohol and other depressants. Depressants are only going to make you feel 3. Practice acceptance. There is no point worse. This may be hard to recognize if you getting angry at yourself. This will only make are in the habit of self-medicating. You may you feel worse. Instead, admit your powerthink your “medicine” makes you feel better, lessness over whatever feelings are coming not worse. But if you felt better, you would not up. Everyone has feelings and accepting need to self-medicate in the first place. them no matter what is part of being human. 4. Get plenty of rest. When you feel down, getting enough sleep is crucial although getting too much sleep can work against improving your mood. Determine what amount
9. Eat smaller, healthier meals. If feeling down affects your appetite in either direction, see if you can reset your metabolism and blood sugar by having smaller, healthier 53
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Joyful Practices For Every Day Journaling Exercising Painting Sculpting Collaging Knitting Reading Decorating Walking Coloring Meditating Gardening Photography Scrapbooking Puzzle-solving
meals throughout the day rather than just a few large meals. 10. Create a prayer practice. Try getting down on your knees and simply asking for whatever is troubling you to be removed. Turn over everything stressing you and ask for help to make room for good to flow in.
11. Build inspiration into your daily life. You can overwrite negative voices with positive messages. Opportunities for daily inspiration abound in the Internet age. Set up daily uplifting messages to your inbox, listen to radio shows or stream videos that make you feel good. 12. Focus on appreciation. No matter how badly you feel, surely there is something that makes you feel good. There is nothing wrong with feeling grateful for a cup of coffee, as long as you really mean it. Notice your appreciation, feel it, share it, write it down. Do whatever you can to make feelings of gratitude bigger and longer lasting. 13. Make a list of the happiest moments from your life. Own what made each moment powerful to you. Forget what others felt about those moments. Let the rest of the past go. No need to hang onto any unhappy memories.
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SEMMES 786-5425 54
14. Switch to glass half full. When you notice yourself focusing on or expressing the negative, pause. It’s just a habit and habits can be changed. Find something-anythingpositive to focus on in the moment. If nothing strikes you, engage in one of your new constructive habits, which will create a positive shift you can then appreciate. 15. Do something joyous every day. Everyone has activities they do that cause them to forget time and get into a flow state. What are yours? Try to work in at least a half hour a day of flow time, no matter what else is going on. ESP Author, journalist, and writing coach, Christina Katz has known many who have suffered from the winter blues. She hopes this article will encourage them to reach out for help sooner rather than later, so they can experience relief and rediscover the joys of winter.
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Keys to a Successful
Disney Vacation Taking a vacation to Walt Disney World can conjure up many different emotions for people. Most people are excited about taking a trip to Disney; it’s the planning that can cause apprehension for some travelers. A Disney vacation can create some of the best memories for you and your family, but it must be done right. The easiest thing to do is get in touch with a Disney Authorized Vacation Planner that has graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge and is working for an Earmarked agency, which complies with all of Disney’s standards. There are currently 25 resorts, 355 restaurants and 136 attractions in Walt Disney World. Your travel advisor will help you take care of all of the details, including your hotel choice, dining reservations, FastPass reservations and any other extra special touches that you may wish to add to your vacation. Contrary to popular belief, many travel advisors specializing in Disney destinations, like myself, do not charge anything for their services. Many families from Baldwin and Mobile Counties opt to go in the summer because the kids are out of school, but since that’s what most of the country does, it’s best to go at another time of the year, especially for your first visit. A great time to go is around the Mardi Gras break. The weather is cooler and the crowds are
lighter, which can make for a very enjoyable experience. The weeks during Christmas, summer, spring break and Thanksgiving see the heaviest crowds. If you must go in summer, then go as soon as school is out. Typically, Southern schools let out for summer vacation before Northern schools, meaning the heaviest summer crowds don’t go into full effect until mid-June. There are many exciting activities throughout the year at Walt Disney World. Beginning March 2, 2016, Epcot will host its annual Flower & Garden Festival. The festival features beautiful gardens, garden and spring-inspired foods, seminars and musical groups from different genres and decades. The festival will wrap up May 15, 2016. Hollywood Studios usually hosts Star Wars Weekends in May and early June, but, with the opening of new Star-Wars themed areas, that event may be shelved. Hopefully not! If summer is the best time for your family to make their trip to Disney, then the plans should begin soon. You may begin making dining reservations up to 180 days in advance. Baldwin County Public Schools release for summer 55
vacation on May 26. For example, if you would like your 2016 Disney vacation to begin on June 1, then you should have started booking your dining reservations beginning December 3, 2015. The Disney dining reservations line opens up at 7 a.m. E.S.T., which means, in order to get the reservations to the oh-so-coveted Cinderella’s Royal Table or Be Our Guest Restaurant, you should be online or ready to dial the phone by 6 a.m. C.S.T. After your dining reservations are made you will now be able to concentrate on where you would like to stay. Many Disney Travel Advisors, like myself, will take care of all of these details for their clients. Many clients decide whether to stay on or off Disney property when they start the planning process. Personally, I’ve done it both ways, and I find it more convenient and fun to stay at a Disney resort. One of the main benefits to staying on property is using the Disney transportation system, which is hassle-free and you are also allowed free parking at the various parks, should you choose to drive. Another advantage to staying at a Disney resort is the ability to purchase Disney Dining Plan, which is not available to guests staying at an off-property resort. Magic Bands are also complimentary with your Disney resort reservation and you will be able to select your FastPass reservations for attractions 60 days prior to your arrival date. Off-property guests will not be allowed to make reservations until 30 days prior to arrival. There are many aspects that go into planning a Walt Disney World vacation. I have found that some people thrive on the excitement of it while others dread having to keep up with all of the information and timeframes. My family and I love Disney and visit a few times a year. I enjoy all of the planning that goes into making a Disney vacation a wonderful experience, for both my family and my clients. Jennifer Heaton is a Travel Advisor specializing in Disney Destinations with Glass Slipper Concierge in Fairhope, AL. You may reach her by email at disneyvacationsfairhope@gmail.com or visit her Facebook Group: Eastern Shore Disney Addicts (https://www.facebook.com/groups/ easternshoredisneyaddicts/).
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Games That Connect with Kids
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
Making connections is one of the most rewarding experiences kids can enjoy. Finding out which peg fits in which hole, discovering what puzzle piece fits where, are achievements that generate a strong sense of satisfaction. Their understanding of connections grows as they learn how separate parts come together to create a whole or to complete a task. Introducing kids to toys and games that explore connections supports their spatial thinking and problem-solving skills in fun and creative ways. The following items are guaranteed to connect with kids fast!
by Gerry Paige Smith
Gears Gears Gears
Snap Circuits, Jr.
Puzzling out the ways that gears and cogs interlock is just the beginning as small hands explore how to get them connected and moving. Large, colorful, uniformly sized plastic gears easily link together in both horizontal and vertical planes to create mechanically moving assemblies. This set comes with base plates, pillars, and extenders, plus an activity book to help early engineers establish their first connections. Supporting fine motor skills as well as problem-solving skills, Gears Gears Gears gives kids confidence to craft their own moving marvels.
With color-coded pieces and easy instructions, the daunting world of electronic circuitry is greatly simplified through Snap Circuits, Jr. This kit includes over 30 components that easily snap together to build working circuit boards that power a musical doorbell, voice-controlled lamp, a flying saucer and more! The included project guide features large colorful instructions for over 100 projects. Once kids gain confidence constructing these basic circuits, more elements and projects can be added through related Snap Circuits kits. Sparking an early interest in electronics is just a few clicks away with Snap Circuits Jr.!
(Learning Resources)
(Elenco)
Qubits
Goobi
Deceptively simple, the 42 pieces of colorful plastic segments in the travel-sized Qubits pack inspire a surprisingly broad range of projects and exploration for kids as young as five (while remaining likewise appealing to much older fans of building toys). Fostering an early understanding of modular design and geometry, Qubits snap-together to form versatile shapes and structures. Additionally, Qubits are also compatible with Lego, K’nex, Hot Wheels and Lincoln Logs opening up fascinating options for cross-constructions and expanded projects. From towers three feet tall to six-inch long sleds, the inventive possibilities with Qubits are immeasurable!
The Goobi Construction Set is an ideal early exploration of three-dimensional geometry for kids. Colorful rods (with magnets embedded within the ends) connect with round iron ball “joints” to form multiple shapes and structures with ease. The illustrated instruction book offers additional projects that explore the attractive and repulsive properties of magnetism safely. While the box indicates compatibility with ages three and up, this Goobi set is best enjoyed by kids a bit older who have the attention span and motor skills to fully explore the possibilities of this fun collection of elements. Fostering an early understanding of architecture, Goobi is good to go for young designers.
(Goobi)
(Qubits)
Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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Parents often find themselves making countless decisions when it comes to the education of their young children: What type of environment is best for my child? What type of preschool is going to prepare my child for kindergarten? Where is my child going to thrive when I am not around? Is my child really better off going to preschool or staying home with me? It’s important to know what options you have regarding the care you expect for your child. Are you looking for an environment that offers an educational curriculum in addition to a day care environment? Are you considering placement for full or half day care? What kind of student-teacher ratio should you expect when considering a preschool? Understanding the options available is an important step in the process of making this decision. Here are a few things to consider when making your decision. Eastern Shore Parents I January 2016
Understanding the Environment Preschools of our current society range from the state sponsored Pre-Kindergarten programs, to Private Preschools, to University Laboratory schools. State sponsored pre-K programs are generally provided for children who are socio-economically challenged or have some form of limitation that needs attention prior to entering a formal education environment. State sponsored pre-K programs offer a Head Start curriculum, which began in 1965 as a program to 58
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provide economically disadvantaged children a “head start” to their education. Since that time, Head Start programs are serving over 900,000 children nationwide. Additionally, many states are offering universal pre-K programs, which offer free preschool education to all children over the age of four prior to entering Kindergarten. Currently Georgia, West Virginia, and Oklahoma offer universal pre-K, while other states such as Florida and North Carolina are in the process of offering these services. Universal pre-K does not admit children solely on the basis of socio-economic status or ability; rather it is a service available to all four-year-old children in that state. Private preschools operate often as forprofit, independent non-profit, and programs sponsored by religious organizations. Often times, private schools will have a lower school campus or preschool attached as a transitional experience for the K-12 environment. The educational quality and curriculum varies from preschool to preschool and there are no specific state or federal guidelines for teacher qualification or certification. However, most private preschools do make the effort to hire certified teachers to work with their preschool children and hire those with some teacher training to serve as “aides” in their pre-Kindergarten classrooms. The university laboratory school is a concept that began in the late 1800s at The University of Chicago by John Dewey. Since that time, many universities have established a laboratory setting on their campus as a way to offer educational experience to their education and human studies majors. Laboratory schools can range in enrollment from birth-12th grade. Most university lab schools offer a preschool, or preschool-Kindergarten environment. University laboratory schools offer a curriculum that is deeply grounded in developmental theory and are staffed by teachers with Masters, Specialists, and Doctoral degrees. The university laboratory school offers a different sort of environment in that it serves as a teacher preparation environment for pre-service and often advanced certification teachers. Instruction is prepared by pre-service teachers and approved by a professor with advanced training in the area of specialization. Lessons are conducted by the preservice teachers and evaluated consistently 59
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by the professor for immediate modifications and areas of elevation suggested.
Making The Choice When choosing what environment is best for your child and your family you must ask yourself what you hope to accomplish through enrolling your child into a specific environment. Are you looking to make sure your child has the proper social skills to easily assimilate into a Kindergarten environment or is your goal more to expose him to academics? Each of these various environments can do both of those things. What you need to review are a few specifics: • Is this preschool one that has a positive reputation in the area? • Is this preschool accredited by NAEYC [National Association for the Education of Young Children]? DHR? • What is the student: teacher ratio (for the state of Alabama, the recommendation is no more than 6:1.) • What are the credentials of the teachers that will be teaching your child? • Is information about the preschool readily available? Do they have a website where parents can find general information? • Do they offer tours? Are they open to meet with you and address your concerns? • Are the hours of operation conducive to your home/work schedule? Your child’s education is one of the most important decisions you will make for him. Giving him the right start is the best way to ensure success in later academic endeavors. Knowing the facts about any and all schools you may be considering is half the battle. Talk with neighbors and community members. Research the school online. Take a tour. Get to know the people you will be leaving your child with. Choose an environment that will allow your child to be as happy and well adjusted away from home as he is at home. Then you will know that you’ve made the best decision for your child, and ultimately, your family. ESP
Barbie Norvell has a PhD, an EdS, MS and a BS in Early Childhood Education and 26 years of experience as a classroom teacher and university professor.
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For small children, making friends is often a matter of simply sharing the same interests. Common ground is certainly the most fertile soil to nurture a fast and easy friendship. But there is also great value in the friendships that develop between more unlikely pairs. Finding areas of compatibility, discovering languages that each can understand, and exploring the ways that each complements the other are all elements that build character in both sides of an odd pair. The following titles inspire kids to look among the unlikely candidates for new companions, and to put in the extra work that make these special friendships so worthwhile.
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Pig and Small
by Alex Latimer (Peachtree) Realizing that it’s not normal to wake up with a persistent ‘squeaky’ face, Pig’s investigation of his snout reveals a small bug on the end of his nose. It’s clear from the way that Bug is enthusiastically waving his arms and squeaking that he wants to be friends. So Bug and the much larger Pig try doing some things that friends do together. But tandem bike riding with Bug makes Pig feel like he’s doing all the pedaling. And a game of chess with Pig leaves Bug exhausted from simply moving a single piece. Just when it seems like they won’t be able to bridge the gap in their budding relationship, the winds of fortune change and they find an area of interest they can both explore together. Readers will discover with Pig and Bug many things that friends can share no matter their differences!
Felix Stands Tall
by Rosemary Wells (Candlewick Press) Felix doesn’t have a best friend until Fiona walks right up and asks him to be hers. He’s excited to have a best friend, but to keep up with the outgoing Fiona, the more timid Felix will have to step outside of his comfort zone. Fiona (who loves costumes and performing) insists that Felix join her on stage for the talent show. She teaches him how to sing and dance, and their hard work produces a first prize at the show. But it also produces bullies the next day who tease Felix about wearing a costume and singing. When Fiona quickly steps in and banishes the bullies, Felix wants to learn how to stand tall like her. Their new friendship levels up as Fiona teaches Felix how to ‘armor up’ when facing bullies. Highlighting the bravery that unique friendships can generate together, this title is a gentle inspiration for kids to stand together against bullies.
Two Speckled Eggs
by Jennifer K. Mann (Candlewick Press) When Ginger’s Mom says she can invite all the girls in her class to her birthday party, she’s delighted. But Ginger struggles with the idea of including Lyla, the odd girl in her class that smells like old leaves and who one time brought a tarantula to show-and-tell. On the day of the party, Lyla arrives first followed by the loud crowd of their classmates. And Ginger’s carefully planned agenda goes off the rails as the rowdy girls mess up all the games and turn their nose up at Ginger’s coconut pineapple birthday cake. Just when Ginger thinks her party is ruined, there is a quiet Lyla, who likes Ginger’s cake. There in the chaos is Lyla, whose gift is a handmade nest with two malted milk speckled eggs. As the other girls make their goodbyes, Ginger and Lyla are actually connecting for the first time. Celebrating the small commonalities that can form the beginnings of great friendships, this title is a moving testament to true camaraderie.
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The 2016 Local Guide to Full and Part-Time Daycare, Before and After School Care, and More! Christ the King Early Childhood Development Center
(ad on page 8) Director: Jennifer Felicelli 1506-B Main Street, Daphne (251) 621-8391; www.christthekingecdc.com Email: ctkecdc@gmail.com We will hold an Open House for prospective students on January 26th, 2016 from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. We invite all parents that are interested in enrolling their children at Christ the King ECDC to attend this informational meeting. We will discuss our waiting list, school policies, the curriculum we offer and registration process. In house registration begins on Monday February 1, 2016 for all currently enrolled students and their siblings. Ages 6 weeks Pre-K4 accepted. We offer full day and half-day preschool programs for ages Pre-K2, Pre-K3 and Pre-K4. The Full day Preschool program is from 6:45 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and the half-day Preschool program is from 7:45 a.m. 12:15 p.m.
Little Crusaders Learning Center
(ad on page 15) Director: Kathy Johnson 9023 Lawson Road, Daphne (251) 621-6363; www.littlecrusaderslearningcenter.com Email: littlecrusadersllc@yahoo. com Open Registration year around. Ages 6 weeks – 12 years. After-school care is available. We have an experienced staff with Certified Pre-K Teachers. We have a Smart Board and splash playground. Little Crusaders is DHR Certified, First Aid/CPR Certified. For more information please call our office.
Eastern Shore Early Childhood Center
(ad on page 7) Director: Carol Saltz 1090 Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope (251) 928-3449; csaltz04@bellsouth.net Call for registration information. Full Time. Ages 18 months - 12 years.
Faith Family Fellowship Preschool
(ad on page 36) Director: Stacey Martiniere 23800 US Highway 98, Fairhope (251) 928-1403; www.countrydayfairhope.com Email: countrydayfairhope@gmail.com Registration is Wednesday, January 27th from 9:30am – 11:30am. First come first serve. Ages 18 months - half-day kindergarten Monday – Friday. For more information please call or email our office.
(ad on page 13) Director: Sharon Frain 7100 Spanish Ft Blvd, Spanish Fort (251) 626-6338; www.faithfamilyonline.com Email: Sharon@faithfamilyonline.com We offer a Full Day Program with before & after school care. Hours are 7:30 a.m. – 3:10 p.m. Extended hours are 7:10 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Fall 2016 Registration will take place in early February. Ages 2 years - K-4 accepted. For more information call or email our office.
Daphne UMC Preschool
God’s Living Sea
Country Day School
(ad on page 37) Director: Lee Scioneaux 2401 Main Street, Daphne (251) 626-3606; www.dumc.org Email: preschool@dumc.org Open registration begins Monday, February 1st, 2016 and will remain open until full. Preschool ages are 2 years – 4 years. We offer Full and Half days of sharing God’s love. Eastern Shore Parents I January 2016
(ad on page 42) Director: Meighan Sternberg 9264 Pleasant Road, Daphne (251) 621-3977; www.jubileebaptist.com Email: godslivingsea@jubileebaptist.com Ages 3 months - 4 years. Half day with extended care available Monday – Friday. Registration begins February 1st, 2016. For more information please call or email our office. 62
The Learning Tree Weekday Early Education at First Baptist Church
(ad on page 44) Director: Lynn Carroll 300 South Section St, Fairhope (251) 928-0496; www.fbcfairhope.org Email: tlt@fbcfairhope.org Open Enrollment will begin in February 2016. Ages 1 year – 4 years accepted. Program Hours are 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Now also offering Extended Day from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. 2, 3 and 5-day programs available.
The Organic School
Marietta Johnson School of Organic Education
(ad on page 54) Director: Jessie Patterson 8 Marietta Drive, Fairhope (251) 928-9347; www.fairhopeorganicschool.com Email: marietta.school@mchsi.com We nurture each child’s creativity with weekly classes in art, music, yoga, pottery, nature studies and Spanish. Celebrating 108 years of learning through play and exploration! Applications for Pre-K - 8th grade are currently being accepted. Call for details.
Spanish Fort Presbyterian Preschool (ad on page 32)) Director: Laura Roberts 6620 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort
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(251) 626-7137; www.spanishfortpresbyterian.com Email: sfppreschool@gmail.com Registration for the fall semester begins January 25th, 2016. Ages Toddler – Pre-K4 are accepted. Hours are 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Extended hours are also available from 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Please call our office @ (251) 626-7137 or e-mail @ sfppreschool@gmail.com for registration times and more information.
Spanish Fort UMC Preschool
(ad on page 27) Director: Jenni Dismukes 6530 Spanish Ft Blvd, Spanish Fort (251) 626-1380; www.spanishfortumc.org Email: preschool@spanishfortumc.org SFUMC Church Member registration begins January 19th, 2016 at 8:30 a.m. Current student registration begins January 20th and 21st at 8:30 a.m. Open registration begins January 22nd, 2016 at 9:30 a.m. Ages 5 months - 4 years are accepted. We offer a Half-day program from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. with a special lunch bunch hour until 1:00 p.m.
Weinacker’s Montessori School
(ad on page 22) Director: Jennifer Potokar 28765 North Main St, Daphne (251) 259-5037; www.weinackersmontessori.com Email: jpotokar@WeinackersMontessori.com Open Registration year round. Ages 6 weeks - 12 years. Full and half day programs are available. Call today! A Montessori education is affordable! AUC Resource Center, Afterschool and Daycare Director: Tyeshia Pickett 8355 Jonesboro Road, Daphne Phone: (251) 626-6056 Serving infants age 6 weeks through children 14 years old with emphasis on school readiness. Hours are 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. At AUC your children are “Angels Under our Care”. Call our office for registration information.
Baldwin County Childcare Referral Agency / Gulf Regional Early Childhood Services 3100 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile (251) 473-1060 or (800) 276-2134; www.grecs.org Email: info@grecs.org Gulf Regional Early Childhood Services improves the quality of childcare programs and implements early learning opportunities to prepare children for academic success. Visit our website for area centers and helpful resources. Bean Sprouts 11065 US Highway 31, Spanish Fort (251) 626-5445; www.beansproutsdaycare.com Email: smbrightbill@gmail.com Bean Sprouts is convenient to Rockwell Elementary School. Serving ages 6 weeks through 5 years with the Mother Goose curriculum. Hours are Monday – Friday from 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Big Red Barn, Inc. Director: Scarlet Weatherford 14968 Morris Road, Bay Minette (251) 937-1296; scarlet.weatherford@gmail.com The center accepts children ages 6 weeks - 5 Years. Our Hours are 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Call our office for detailed registration information. Bright Beginnings Preschool Orange Beach UMC Director: Pam Kreamer 28751 Canal Rd, Orange Beach (251) 981-6750; www.orangebeachumc.org Email: brightbeginnings@gulftel.com Our mission is to be the love of Jesus Christ to children and their families by providing a Christian learning environment that is safe, warm and loving. Serving children age 1 by September 1st of the cur-
rent school year through 4 years old. Please call or email our office for detailed registration information. Children’s Learning Center Director: Lynn Beasley 22305 Palmer St, Robertsdale Phone: (251) 947-4407 Email: clcdaycare@yahoo.com Ages 6 weeks – 12 years. We offer a Full time program Monday – Friday from 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. After school care also available. Color Us Kids Learning Center Director: Annette Brumfield 26000 Nelson Street, Daphne Phone: (251) 625-6933 Website: www.coloruskidslearningcenter.com Email: coloruskids@gmail.com Registration is open year around. Ages 6 weeks – 5 years accepted. We provide a Full time learning center with ABeka Curriculum. Open Monday – Friday from 6:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Community Action Agency of South Alabama (Head Start Program) Director: Develon Simmons 26440 North Pollard Road, Daphne (251) 626-2646; www.caaofsa.org Email: info@caaofsa.org Ongoing registration is open for ages 3 - 5 years. Blended Pre-K and Head start classes also offered. Please call or email our office for program details. The Community School 29964 Saint Basil Street, Daphne (251) 517-5590; www.mycommunityschool.org Email: mdaw@mycommunityschool.org
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(251) 974-5488; www.discoveryislandcdc.com Email: director@discoveryislandcdc.com We have ongoing registration for ages 6 weeks 5years. Hours are Monday – Friday from 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. We are the only licensed and inspected Daycare center on the island.
Pre-School students must be 3 years old and potty trained by September 1st. Kindergarten students must be 5 years of age by September 1st. Grades 1 - 6 must be age appropriate under state law. The Community School operates Monday-Thursday; K3K5 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Drop off starts at 8:30 a.m. Kindergarten-6th Grade hours are 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Drop off begins at 8:00 a.m. All pick up ends at 3:00 p.m. **Friday Option Available** Registration for the 2016/2017 school year will begin in February 2016. Cox Day Care Director: Clara Cox 301 Rain Drive, Bay Minette Phone: (251) 937-2745 We welcome children ages 3 weeks to children 12 years. Our hours are from 6:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Cradle 2 Crayons, Inc. Owner/Director: Renee Brunson Asst. Director: Daphne (Dee Dee) Henderson 507 West Rose Avenue, Foley (251) 943-4599; www.cradle2crayonsinc@gulftel.com E-mail: cradle2crayons@gulftel.com
Open enrolment all year. Ages 6 weeks - 12 years accepted. Hours are Monday – Friday 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. 3K and 4K programs are also offered. After school care available. We offer WIZ Kids computer classes and Tumblebus. Crossroads Church Preschool/3 Circle North Director: Jackie Roberson 10080 County Road 64, Daphne Phone: (251) 510-0642 or (251) 626-5489 Email: aquapink@mchsi.com Registration will begin in January for fall semester. Call for details. Ages K2-K4. Half-Day program. Crossroads Head Start Director: Nealetha Holloway 9411 Hurricane Road, Bay Minette Phone: (251) 937-5698 Email: nealetha.holloway@caaofsa.org The center accepts children ages K3 – K4. Hours are 8:15 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. For information call our local or district office. Discovery Island Child Development Director: Melissa Callaway Moody 24843 Commercial Ave, Orange Beach
Eastern Shore Academy of Excellence Director: Jamie Snowden 23946-B US Hwy 98, Montrose Phone: (251) 928-1854 Email: Jamie.snowden76@gmail.com Open registration is year round for children 6 weeks to 12 years of age. Our daycare uses a Preschool curriculum. Summer programs, After-school care and Half day programs are available. Hours are from 6:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Call for information. Eastern Shore Baptist Church Weekday Education Ministries Director: Gail Gardner 6847 Park Drive, Daphne (251) 626-7627; www.myesbc.net Email: gail@myesbc.net In-house registration January 25-29, 2016 and open to the public February 1-5, 2016. (All paperwork and registration fees are due at this time.) The Preschool program accepts children ages 2 years – 4 years. The Mother’s Day Out program will accept children ages 6 weeks - 24 months. Hours are 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. with extended option from 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. There is limited space available in our extended care program. For more information and tuition rates please call or visit our church website.
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Eastern Shore Kids Kastle, Inc. 10291 B County Rd 48, Fairhope Phone: (251) 990-5350 Email: eskki@bellsouth.net Registration open all year. Ages 6 weeks - 12 years. Full Time and After-school Programs available. Hours are Monday - Friday 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. ChildCare South is also accepted. Come See What Sets us APART! We offer Health Habits - Sports Activities - Outdoor Sand/Water Play - Trike Paths - Computers - Professional Photos - Special Events – Dance Lessons Homework Assessments. Visit our new Facebook Page! Eastern Shore Montessori School Director: Kate Burdick 980 Main Street, Daphne Phone: (251) 626-7505 Email: esmontessorischool@gmail.com Registration is open year round. Full and part time programs are offered to ages 12 months – Kindergarten. Summer programs are also offered. View a virtual tour at https://plus.google. com/102855578395083437289/about?hl=en. ECMHSP/LOXLEY AL CENTER 16742 County Road 68, Loxley Phone: (251) 960-1060 Children ages 6 weeks – 5 years accepted. Center hours are from 5:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Fairhope UMC Preschool Ministry Director: Terry Lowell 155 South Section St, Fairhope (251) 928-1280; www.fairhopeumc.org Email: Terry.lowell@fairhopeumc.org Monday - Friday mornings, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Open registration: January 29, 2016. Ages are young 2 years (turn 2 during the school year) to Pre-K. Faith Christian Academy Director: Andrea Overstreet 18109 US Highway 98, Foley Phone: (251) 971-3202 Our hours are from 6:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday – Friday. All ages accepted. Please call for more information.
REGISTRATION OPENS
NOVEMBER 20, 2015
Forming great hearts & minds to do great things.
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First Baptist Child Development Center – Gulf Shores Director: Melanie Davis 2200 West 1st Street, Gulf Shores Phone: (251) 968-8124 Email: Fbccdcmissionfield14@gmail.com Registration begins in June for fall 2015 for children ages 6 weeks – PreK4. Hours are 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. First Baptist Church Child Development Center Director: Megan Franklin 1201 Hand Avenue, Bay Minette Phone: (251) 937-3744 Email: megan@fbcbm.com Ages 1–4 years. Pre-k3 & Pre-k4 programs. Open 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. After school program offered for school aged children. Registration is open if space permits. Please call or email our office for more information. 65
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First Baptist Daycare – Spanish Fort Director: Wanda Finch 8353 Spanish Ft Blvd, Spanish Fort Phone: (251) 626-2946 Open Registration year around. Ages 6 weeks - 5 years. Full Time. Foley UMC - Joy Center Director: Kathie Johnson 915 North Pine Street, Foley (251) 943-3688; www.foleyjoy.com Email: director@foleyjoy.com Full Day Program for children ages 6 weeks - 5 years. Our hours are Monday – Friday from 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Mother’s Day Out for children 18 months – 5 years with 2 day or 3 day Programs available. Please call or email our office for registration information. Good Beginnings Community Center Director: Debra J. Rowe 26120 Equity Drive, Daphne (251) 316-5995; www.goodbeginings8415@att.net “A Lifetime of Learning Begins Here” Ages 6 weeks – 12 years accepted. Hours are Monday – Friday, 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. After-school care is also
Eastern Shore Parents I January 2016
available. We offer an onsite Spanish and Music teacher. We are DHR, CPR and First Aid Certified. Please call or email our office for registration and tuition rates. Good Shepherd Lutheran School 13220 North Main Street, Elberta (251) 987-1966; www.goodshepherdlutheran-sch.com Now registering for PK3 - Kindergarten. Children must be potty trained to start. Class is from 7:55 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Monday – Friday. Early drop off is available at 7:00 a.m. Extended day program is open until 5:30 p.m. Our program focuses on school readiness with Christian teachings. Please call for registration and detailed information. Gulf Shores United Methodist Church Preschool and Mother’s Day Out Director: Lana Crawford 1900 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores (251) 968-4328; www.gulfshoresumc.org Email: lana@gulfshoresumc.org Registration begins in March 2016 for children ages 1 - 4 years as of September 1st of the current school year. 9:00 a.m. - 2:45 p.m. We offer 2, 3, and 5-day programs. Please call for information.
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Heavenly Sent Learning Center Inc. Director: Arlene Trotter 12710 County Road 65, Foley Phone: (251) 970-3324 or (251) 943-3049 Website: www.heavenysentlearningcenter.com Ongoing registration for children ages 6 weeks through 14 years. We also offer a school readiness Pre-K program. Our hours are Monday through Friday 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Please call our office or visit our website for tuition rates and registration. Hermes Enchanted Garden Home Daycare Located in Daphne near Hwy 90 and I-10 (251) 269-0022; hermesenchantedgarden@gmail.com Montessori influenced home day care. We provide preservative free organic meals. Please call for more information. Holy Spirit Episcopal Day School Director: Diane Wheeler 616 West Fort Morgan Road, Gulf Shores Phone: (251) 968-5219; www.hseds616.com Email: hseds616@gmail.com Day school for children ages 1 1/5 years - 5 years. Our hours are Monday – Friday from 7:30 a.m. 5:30 p.m. Jubilee Early Child Development Center Director: Heather Bankester 8930 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort (251) 625-1234; www.jubileechildcare.com Email: jecdcspanishfort@yahoo.com Registration is open year around. Ages 6 weeks PreK4 accepted. We offer Full Time with a limited part-time program available. Call for information.
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Jubilee Head Start Center 24044 Highway 98, Fairhope (251) 928-9193; www.caaofsa.org Ongoing registration for ages 3 - 5 years. Hours are Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Also accepting low income and special needs children. Please call for more information. Jubilee Shores WeeSchool Director: Amber Jones 17261 State Hwy 181, Fairhope (251) 929-0829; www.jubileeshores.net Email: amberjones@jubileeshores.net Registration begins in February 2016. Ages 10 months – 5 years accepted. Our hours are 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. You are welcome to choose specific days and hours needed. Kid’s Kabin Daycare Director: Kelly Lee 27730 Main Street, Daphne (251) 375-0152; www.facebook. com/ daycareKidsKabinDC Open Registration is year around. We accept ChildCare South. Ages 10 weeks - 6 years accepted. Hours are Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. We provide Full time daycare. Visit us on Facebook! Please call for more information. Kidz Learning Center Director: Stacey Bain 1074 North Hickory Street, Loxley (251) 964-4200; kidz@gulftel.com Registration is ongoing and available for ages 6 weeks – 12 years. Hours are Monday – Friday from 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. No registration fee required. Please call or email for more information.
Kid Plus Child Development Center Director: Christie Steigerwald 900 South Bay Street, Foley (251) 970-1566; www.facebook.com/kidplusfoley Email: csteigerwald@gulftel.com Registration is ongoing for children ages 6 weeks through 11 years. Our Hours are Monday – Friday from 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. For more information please call our office or visit us on Facebook. Kinder Academy 8209 Gayfer Road Extension, Fairhope (251) 210-6513; www.kinderacademyfairhope.com Email: kinderacademyfairhope@gmail.com The King’s Kids Daycare, Inc.
Director: Rhapsody Parker Owner: Dr. Deadra Powe and Michael Powe, Sr. 28848 North Main Street, Daphne (251) 621-8811; www.facebook.com/kingskidsroyalty Email: mfpowe@gmail.com “The King’s Kids Daycare, Inc. - Where your kids are treated like royalty”. Hours are 6am – 6pm. Ages 6 weeks to 6 years. Owners are retired Baldwin County School principals. DHR certified. For more information call or visit us on Facebook.
Little Learners Kiddie School Liberty Church Director: Tia Stafford 110 East Riviera Boulevard, Foley Phone: (251) 923-7602 We offer ongoing registration for preschool children ages 6 weeks - 5 years. Our Hours are Monday – Friday from 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Please call our office for more information. Little Nemo’s by the Bay Preparatory Preschool Director: Nicole Talley Autrey 6389 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort (251) 621-1126; www.littlenemosbythebay.com Email: agrikidsofdaphne@gmail.com We have Open Registration year around and our hours are 23 hours per day, 7 days a week. We accept Childcare South. Ages 6 weeks to 30 months accepted. Upper-End Preparatory Preschool available on campus for ages 2 years - 5k. Programs for before & after school care. Early morning care as well as nights and weekends. All meals, snacks and drinks are furnished. Please call or email us for detailed information and rates. Loving Care Children’s Center Director: Karen Dees 10142 County Road 64, Daphne (251) 626-1855; www.lovingcare2.com Email: mommakabc123@bellsouth.net Registration is open year around. Ages 6 weeks - 6 years. Full and half days are available. The Neighborhood School Director: Carriann Tombes 26481a Kensington Place, Daphne (251) 626-0074; tnsdaphne@gmail.com
Preparing Our Students to Meet the Future with Faith, Knowledge & Integrity Call 251.626.1692 or visit ctkcsdaphne.org for more information.
Open Registration for 2016-2017
Tuesday, February 16 Kindergarten 9:00AM in Assumption Hall Wednesday, February 17 Grades 1- 8 9:30AM in the School Office 67
1503 Main Street Daphne, AL
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Please call for registration information. Open to for infant through Pre-K. Full day, half day and after school care programs available. Visit us on Facebook for updates. Magnolia Springs Head Start Director: Ada Ikner 10839 St. Johns Avenue, Foley (251) 965-7937; www.caaofsa.org Registration is ongoing for ages 3 years - 5 years. Hours are Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Milestones Child Care Center 1074 South Cypress Street, Loxley Phone: (251) 960-1616; The center accepts children ages 6 weeks - 12 years. Center hours are Monday – Friday from 6:30 a.m. -5:30 p.m. Registration is always open. Mrs. Robin’s Playhouse Director: Robin Gruber 21649 Bartlett Lane, Robertsdale, AL (251) 677-4141; www.msrobinsplayhouse.weebly.com Email: gruberrobin@yahoo.com Learn through play in an environment based on family and faith. Ages newborn to 5 years accepted. Our hours are Monday – Friday from 6:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Mrs. Robin’s Playhouse is DHR licensed, health, fire and safety inspected, CPR/First Aid certified. Mrs. Robin is also a licensed social worker with more than 20 years experience. Call or visit our website for more information. Ms. Tiffany’s Daycare 11880C County Road 48, Fairhope (251) 990-7368; www.facebook.com/ ms-tiffanys-daycare Email: villanovap74@gmail.com
Ms. Tiffany’s Daycare is a licensed Home Daycare owned and operated by Paul and Tiffany Villanova. We are CPR and 1st Aid certified and licensed by the state of Alabama since 2007. We specialize in tender loving care for infants and toddlers 6 weeks to 3 years of age. Our hours are Monday – Friday from 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Call or visit us on Facebook for more information and availability. New Life Assembly of God Director: Brenda Smith 10424 Old Highway 31, Spanish Fort (251) 656-3535 or (251) 802-8542 Website: www.newlifeagspanishfort.com Email: ferronsmith@hotmail.com Registration is ongoing. Ages 12 months - 4 years accepted. Offering half-day programs Monday – Thursday. Our hours are 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. For more information please call or email our director. Open Door Christian Child Care Director: Violet Wallace 20774 County Rd 12 South, Foley (251) 943-1693; www.opendoorchurchfoley.com Email: opendoor@gulftel.com Enter to grow in wisdom…depart to better serve. Applications are accepted for children 6 weeks - 3 years. Pre-K4 through 12th Grade program also offered. Child Care hours are 6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Precious Moments Learning Center Director: Monica Pierce 1900 South Oak Street, Foley Phone: (251) 943-4399 We offer ongoing registration for children ages 2 weeks - 15 years. Full & part time programs and after school care available. Hours are Monday – Friday from 6:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Preschool Park Christian Life Church Director: Marissa Osborne 25550 Canal Road, Orange Beach Phone: (251) 967-1959 or (251) 967-4840 Website: www.christianlifechurch.tv Email: lisa@christianlifechurch.tv Preschool Park is a ministry of Christian Life Church that provides quality care with a biblical basis. Registration is open for ages 6 months – 4 years. Preschool hours are 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. We offer early morning care and after care programs. To enroll your child, call Elaine Prosser at (251) 967-1959. Robertsdale First Baptist Preschool Director: Teresa Bryant 18200 Hwy 104, Robertsdale (251) 979-5621; www.firstrobertsdale.com Registration accepted February until July. Programs offered are K2, K3 and K4. We offer ABeka curriculum and provide lots of love and fun! Our hours are Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:20 a.m. – 1:20 p.m. Registration fee is $65. Tuition is $190/ month. Please call for more information. Saint Benedict Catholic School Principal: Leslie Mapp 12786 South Illinois Street, Elberta (251) 986-8143; www.saintbenedict.net Email: rkrehling@sbcs@gmail.com Registration begins in February for fall of 2016 for ages Pre-K3 - 8th Grade. Our School day is from 7:45 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. We also offer an extended day program until 5:30 p.m. Saint Patrick Catholic School Principal: Sr. Margaret Harte 23070 Highway 59 North, Robertsdale AL 36567 (251) 947-7395; www.spcsrobertsdale.com Email: sps.robertsdale@gmail.com Preparing students to “Be God’s light in the World” since 1979. Serving grades PK3 - 8th from 7:45am - 3:00pm. Extended Day is available until 5:30pm. Open House is scheduled for January 21, 2016 from 5:00pm - 7:00pm. Registrations are accepted at Open House. Open registration is February 1 - 3, 2016 from 8:00am - 2:00pm.
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Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church Preschool Director: Mary Haulard 28788 North Main St, Daphne (251) 626-2774; www.stpaulseasternshore.com Email: stpaulsepiscopalpreschool@yahoo.com Registration for fall begins in March 2016. Accepting ages 12 months – Pre-K4. Before school care is available from 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. and afterschool care is available from 1:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday – Friday. Call or email for more details. Samaritan Wee Care Center 7208 Twin Beach Road, Fairhope Phone: (251) 928-2273 Samaritan Wee Care is open Monday – Friday from 6:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Spanish Fort Preschool Academy Director: Stephanie Wilson 9543 Stagecoach Commercial Pk Circle, Spanish Fort (251) 625-4042; www.sfpacademy.com Email: stephaniewilson@sfpacademy.com Registration for the 2016 school year will open to the public on Friday February 2nd at 8:30 a.m. The summer program will begin on Tuesday May 31st, 2016. Please call or email our office for more information. Swift Church Christian Preschool Director: Shawn Simpkins 23208 Swift Church Road, Foley (205) 913-7385; www.swiftchurch.org/preschool Email: swiftchurchpreschool@gmail.com We provide Christian education for kindergartenreadiness. Ages 1 year - Pre-K4 accepted. Hours are Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. with Open Enrollment. For more information please call our office. Tiny Tots Academy Director: Katherine Turnage 25478 Friendship Road, Daphne (251) 625-6625; www.tinytotsacademy.net Email: tinytotsac@att.net Open registration all year. Ages 6 weeks – 5 years accepted. Full Day program available. We also offer a kindergarten readiness program. Victory Daycare Academy Victory Life Church Director: Gayle Griffith 20511 County Road 12 South, Foley (251) 943-7684; www.victorylifechurch.net Providing early education with fundamental values. Serving children ages 6 weeks through 4 years. Hours are 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Please call for more information. Visions of North Baldwin Child Development Center 801 West 14th Street, Bay Minette Phone: (251) 580-4209 The center accepts children ages 6 weeks - 5 years. Our hours are from 6:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday – Friday. Like us on Facebook! Contact our office for registration and tuition information. ESP **NOTE** Eastern Shore Parents Magazine makes every attempt to verify that information for each listing is correct. Please understand dates and times may change after our printing deadline. We ask that you call to verify events and/or dates before visiting a business. Thank you, ESPM Staff.
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The best way to make a positive impact on the girl vs. girl trend sweeping the nation is to address and redirect mean girl behavior in our daughters. Like many mothers of daughters I polled, I started noticing mean girl behavior early in my daughter’s school experience. Ironically, the behavior wasn’t coming from acquaintances, but from girls my daughter considered friends. This brings up an uncomfortable reality: there is not much we can do about mean girl behavior in other people’s kids. We can report it to their parents or to school or organization authorities, but there is little more we can do to ameliorate mean girl situations once they are happening. So what’s a pro-active mom to do? Eastern Shore Parents I January 2016
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Take heart. There is much you can
do to prevent mean girl behavior in your own daughter. One more girl setting an example of how to be kind and emotionally intelligent, despite peer pressure moving in the opposite direction, can help turn the tide. If mothers can encourage their daughters to stay open, vulnerable, and in touch with feelings no matter what, we might be able to dismantle the mean girl time bomb that ticks silently away inside every girl, just waiting to go off when that girl is pushed too far. Only when girls understand that bullying is never acceptable can a better example spread. If your daughter can embody healthier choices, she can help create harmony within her middle school girl tribe. Here are six crucial ways moms can prepare daughters to navigate the social pressures of middle school.
After all, popularity does not necessarily equal happiness.
Teach How To Detach From Drama. No matter how
No matter how secure and emotionally intelligent your child, hormones will be ebbing and flowing in middle school. Rather than letting this become an excuse for poor behavior, teach your daughter to step back from situations when erratic emotions are involved.
secure and emotionally intelligent your child, hormones will be ebbing and flowing in middle school. Rather than letting this become an excuse for poor behavior, teach your daughter to step back from situations when erratic emotions are involved. Girl vendettas are common in middle school and can ignite for the slightest reasons. Your daughter may empathize with one or both girls and get inadvertently sucked into a feud if she does not know how to avoid one. Teach your daughter to listen to the facts and form her own opinion without getting involved in any drama. Encourage her to not take sides when one girl turns against another, but to be the voice of reason whenever possible. Affirm that girls need to stick together and prop each other up when they are having a bad day without getting overly involved in solving each other’s problems.
Define meanness. Rudeness, meanness, and bullying exist on a behavior spectrum. Meanness is intentionally hurtful, as opposed to rudeness, which is unintentionally hurtful, as opposed to bullying which is consistently hurtful. One of the problems with mean girl behavior is that it can be subtle, insidious, and When confronted with a challenging elusive. Teach your daughsituation, your daughter will intuitively ter the difference between imitate the way you behave. If you the three types of behaviors project negativity onto others, she is and how to tell the difference between someone who is going to learn to do the same. If you are consistently, purposefully mean insecure, she will be insecure. If you are and someone who simply superior and competitive with others, makes a mistake. Make sure your child understands that it’s she will follow suit. okay to make mistakes, and that you expect her to be kind Once your daughter understands that drama regardless of circumstances. Keep talking is a distraction from personal priorities, she about what these three behaviors mean on can more easily steer clear. an ongoing basis, until your daughter can tell the difference. Once she knows she always has a choice about how to respond in any Model Healthy Communication. situation, you are making good progress. Girls often start to lose their authentic voices when they become teenagers. So your job as your daughter’s confidante is to keep the Encourage Self-acceptance Over doors of communication open and let her Popularity. Left to their own devices, be honest and real with you as she is trying kids will always decide that being popular to figure everything out. If your formerly sunis better than not being popular. In middle shiny girl suddenly turns partly cloudy, don’t school, popularity is perceived as power fret. She may push you away and not want to and kids are instinctively hungry for it. Make talk as much as she used to, but don’t give in sure you don’t secretly hope your child will to the common misperception that teenagers be one of the popular kids. If you put this trip need to be left alone. Your middleschooler on your child, you are encouraging her to put can’t navigate this brave new social world perceptions over feelings, which can lead to solo. If you expect her to, she is going to feel imposter syndrome. If you want your child to stressed and look for friends who can help be authentic and emotionally intelligent, this her take the edge off. You have to be there, means accepting and liking her as she is so Mom, every day, listening and responsive, she can accept and like herself. If you want whenever either of you wants to talk. your daughter to have genuine self-esteem, conversations on self-acceptance need to start young, long before middle school. Then let the popularity chips fall where they may.
Keep Your Negativity In Check.
When confronted with a challenging situation, 71
your daughter will intuitively imitate the way you behave. If you project negativity onto others, she is going to learn to do the same. If you are insecure, she will be insecure. If you are superior and competitive with others, she will follow suit. If you judge and condemn…I am sure you get the picture. You can’t hold your daughter accountable for her attitudes and actions, if you are not accountable for yours. Be sure you set a good example or you just might see your least appealing qualities reflected back to you in your daughter’s behavior.
Reinforce & Challenge Your Daughter’s Strengths. If you want
your daughter to be a leader, not a follower, she needs to know and use her strengths. If you and the rest of your family don’t reflect her strengths back to her, it’s going to take your daughter longer to activate her personal power. If you only reflect back her weaknesses, she is going to believe she is a walking, talking pile of not good enough, which makes her an easy target for mean girls. Girls with high self-esteem don’t usually become targets, and self-motivated girls don’t focus on the behavior of others. If they have a negative encounter with another girl, they shrug it off and bounce back quickly. So make sure your daughter is armed with something besides superiority and a sharp tongue. Be certain she knows what she is good at and encourage her to put her strengths to good use in your community for the benefit of all. If your daughter is busy exercising her skills, challenging herself to reach new goals, and striving to make a positive impact in the world, she will gain the healthy self-esteem and confidence that result from positive personal experiences. Happy, engaged kids are less likely to bully others. Once your daughter understands the dynamics of mean girl behavior, she can steer clear of drama when it crops up and will keep you in the loop as to how she handled it. These are the kinds of conversations every mom hopes to have with her daughter in middle school. If you are not having them, then maybe your daughter needs the mean girl primer only you can give her. ESP Christina Katz enjoys a close relationship with her daughter despite the fact that her daughter is a teenager.
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Family Calendar Ongoing American Sport Art Museum and Archives
Located on the campus of the United States Sports Academy in Daphne, dedicated to the preservation of sports history, art, and literature. Exhibits spotlight visiting artists on a rotating basis, as well as our permanent collection of prints, sculpture, original paintings, photographs and other arts media. Free admission. Hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 1 Academy Drive, Daphne. For more information call 251.626.3303 or visit www.asama.org. Big Brother / Big Sister Mentors Needed At-risk children at Summerdale School need volunteer Big Brother Big Sister mentors. “Bigs” have fun with a child one time a week, for one hour, on school grounds, during the school year by reading a story, working puzzles, playing catch, drawing, or just being a friend. Professional training and support are provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama YMCA, Inc. For more information or to volunteer, contact Polly at 251-344-0536 ext. 104. Eastern Shore Art Center A non-profit arts organization located in beautiful downtown Fairhope, the Art Center houses four galleries with exhibits that change monthly, as well as a gallery featuring member artists’ work for sale. Admission is free. 401 Oak Street, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928.2228 or visit www.eseartcenter.com. The Exploreum The Exploreum is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. For tickets or more information visit www.exploreum.com or call 251-208-6873. 65 Government Street, Mobile. Fairhope Museum of History The museum is full of artifacts from old Fairhope. You can see displays on Clay City, the Single Tax Association and the Civil War. You can also see personal belongings from some of Fairhope’s first families. The museum is located in downtown Fairhope at 24 North Section Street. The museum is open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, call 929-1474. Marietta Johnson Museum This museum was founded to preserve the oldest school building in Baldwin Country, which was founded in 1907 by famed educator Marietta Johnson. Known as one of the first progressive schools in the world, the museum includes historic letters, documents, and artifacts from the school’s heyday, as well as biographical information about Marietta Johnson. To learn more, visit www.mariettajohnson.org. Open Mondays-Fridays from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free. 440 Fairhope Ave. 990-8601. Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve The Weeks Bay Reserve has a free educational interpretive center and two boardwalks. The Interpretive Center houses a multitude of exhibits, habitat models, specimen collections and a diorama giving the visitor a better understanding about the value of estuaries, diversity of coastal wetlands, and a close-up look at living plants and animals of coastal Alabama. Admission is free. Hours are Monday – Saturday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. 11300 US Highway 98, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928-9792 or visit www.weeksbay.org.
Classes/Meetings Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) Offering Adoptive Family Support Group Meetings in Baldwin County the 3rd Monday of each month. The meeting is held at Eastern Shore Church of Christ, 1209 Daphne Ave, in Daphne from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Parent, Youth/Teen group and childcare is available. Topic discussions by adoption professionals and ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information call 251-460-2727 or 1-800-489-1886 or www. childrensaid.org. APAC also offers free counseling services to adoptive families. Celebration MOPS Fairhope Celebration MOPS meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. at Celebration
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Church, 8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope. Childcare is provided and is included in the fees. There is an annual $23.95 MOPS International membership fee and $30 per semester. Call the church office for info at 251-928-0343 or like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/ celebrationmopsfairhopeal. Daily Living Skills Group for parents with children on the Spectrum Held the second Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at The Family Center, 27365 Pollard Road, Daphne. Focus is on daily living needs of families and their children, such as: Safety issues; How to have a family dinner out; Ways to assist with transition; How to talk with people who stare; Your questions, comments and suggestions. Limited childcare slots are available. For more information, please contact Judy Bradshaw: (251) 990-7781. Daphne Neurological Disease Support Group (Includes Parkinson’s Disease, epilepsy). Meets second Monday of each month at Daphne United Methodist Church, 2401 Main Street, Daphne, in the Community Life Center-Gathering Room. 11:00 a.m. until noon. Noon light lunch for $3 from 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. Speaker or joint group session. Contact person: Alice Hallford - 251-626-8228. Fairhope MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) We meet 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. every 2nd & 4th Monday (during the school year) at Fairhope United Methodist Church. All mothers of young children are welcome. Email fairhopemops@yahoo.com for information about how to register. Father Central of Daphne *Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men, $75 giftcard upon completion. Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Call 251-626-1610 to register, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Chill Skills Anger Management by appointment. $25 giftcard upon completion. Call 251-626-1610 schedule, The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Nurturing Parenting, everything you need to know but were afraid to ask. Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Jump in on any Thursday! Call 251-626-1610 to register, 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne, near the YMCA. MOPS on the Eastern Shore MOPS stands for “Mothers of Preschoolers” - but don’t let that confuse you. MOPS is about meeting the needs of every mom of a child from conception through kindergarten with local groups of moms just like you. 7100 Spanish Fort Blvd., Spanish Fort. 1st Thursday of the Month (September through May). Dinner & Child Care are provided. 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. http://www.mopsontheeasternshore.shutterfly.com/ Facebook.com/MopsOnTheEasternShore . Moonlight Chasse’ Ballroom Dance Society Dance lessons from 7 – 7:30 p.m., and Dancing from 7:30 – 10 p.m., first and third Monday of every month, at Fitzpen Place, 1 mile east of Eastern Shore Mall. No partner necessary. $10 per person includes dance lesson. $7 with membership, includes dance lesson. Live music, cash bar. www.FitzpenPlace.com. www. Moonlightchasse.com. For more information, call 251621-6665 or 251-377-4069. Shepherd’s Place (Christian Life Center) Ministry for memory & physically challenged. Mondays & Wednesdays 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 South Section Street, Fairhope. 928-1148. Single Mom Ministry Sponsored by Fairhope Avenue Baptist Church, this prayer and support group for single moms is designed to provide a safe and prayerful environment where group members are able to express themselves among others who will listen, care, and lift each other up. Each participant will receive one bag of non-perishable food items each week. Child care will be provided. Light snacks and soft drinks will be served. Meetings are held every Tuesday from 6-7 PM at Fairhope Avenue Baptist Family Life Center, 8717 Fairhope Ave. 251-928-0890. SOS (Survivors of Suicide) This group is for adults who has ever lost a loved one
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to suicide. If it has been 5 days or 50 years since the loss, this group is here for you. SOS meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of EVERY month from 6:30 to approximately 8:00 p.m. at the Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 S. Section Street, Fairhope. The support group, which has been around since November, 2012, is facilitated by a professional and co-facilitated by two survivors. There are no dues. For more information, please email jlbarber5@ bellsouth.net or call 251-455-6453. Tango by the Bay ~ Argentine Basic classes are held every Tuesday from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. in Fairhope at Southern Edge Dance Studio, located behind Pizza Hut across from Thomas Hospital. 251 South Greeno, Fairhope. $5 per class (fee may be higher with special guest instructors). For more information Contact Ben Samel at 605-2657 or Cassie Fishbein 377-4069, cassief13@aol.com. South Baldwin Regional Medical Center offers the following classes: Your entire family can take part in several informative classes designed to help moms and dads welcome their special new addition to the family with more confidence. Classes cover topics including: Having A Healthy Pregnancy Nutrition, discomforts of pregnancy, warning signs of complications, and relaxation exercises. One session. Cost: $10. Prepared Childbirth Classes (Once a week for four weeks). Cost: $30 Week 1: Begin the Stages of Labor: The labor and delivery process, signs and stages of labor, options for coping, pain management, vaginal delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 2: Delivery and Cesarean Birth: A review of complications that may arise, use of special equipment, complete the stages of labor, cesarean delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 3: New Born and Postpartum Care: Newborn appearance, caring for the newborn, infant safety, recognizing complications, relaxation exercises, and choosing a pediatrician. What to expect after delivery, understanding the physical and emotional changes to your body, and relaxation exercises. Week 4: The Art of Breast Feeding: The benefits of breast feeding for mother and baby, anatomy and physiology of the breast, how to breastfeed, and common difficulties. One session. • Tiny Toes members may enroll in Yoga, Water Aerobics and Expectant Mother Exercise classes through the Snook Family YMCA. The fee is $5 a class. There is a $3 fee for child care. There is no fee if you are already a member of the YMCA. All classes are located at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center–1613 North McKenzie Street Foley. Tuesday evenings 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Classroom A. Located just off of the main lobby. • Please plan to attend the Healthy Pregnancy Class during your first trimester and the Prepared Childbirth Classes anytime after your 24th week of pregnancy. For more information or to enroll please call the OB Educator at 949-3676 to schedule. We look forward to sharing this special time with you! Method of payment accepted: Visa, Master Card, Discover, AmEx, Debit Card. Gift of Life The Gift of Life is a required maternity care program for Medicaid patients or Medicaid-eligible patients. The Gift of Life Program provides a caring system of prenatal services; education and care coordination for expectant moms and their babies. For additional information please contact 949-3781. Thomas Hospital offers the following classes: Breastfeeding Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Monthly, first Tuesday, 6 - 8 p.m. Free. Infant CPR and Safety Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Pre-registration required. To register call 279-1373. Saturdays, 4 - 6 p.m. Moving Through Labor Childbirth Classes Three or four-week prepared childbirth class series which prepares the mother-to-be and her support
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Family Calendar partner for the labor and delivery experience. $30 fee for the class series. Thomas Fitness Center, (Fairhope) Mondays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope) Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Tuesdays, 6-8:30 p.m. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Pre-registration required. Call 251- 279-1373 or visit www.thomashospital.com for upcoming classes and registration. Natural Childbirth Classes, Fertility Awareness, Mother’s Comfort, Exercise and Nutrition For class schedule or more information call Geralyn Piizzotti, 251- 928-9396. Yourbodyyourbirth@bellsouth. net. Newborn Basics Class Held on the second Monday of every month from 6 – 8 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Free. No Pre-registration required. Pre-admission Sessions 6 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Pre-registration required. Sibling Class Thomas Hospital Fitness Center (Fairhope). Pre-registration required. To register call 279-1373. 10 - 11 a.m. Thomas Hospital offers the following support groups for the community: Alanon (Alcoholics Anonymous) Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 800-477-1104 for more information. Alateen Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room East Tower meeting room at Thomas Hospital. Call 391-1152 for more information. Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 345-7645 or 438-9590 for more information. ALS Support Group Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month from 11 a.m. to noon at Thomas Medical Center. Call 205-937-4415 for more information. Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Health Resource Center located at: 308 S. Greeno Road, Fairhope. Call 928-8650 for more information. Cancer Support Group-Family Connected by Ribbons Support group for cancer survivors, friends and family. Open to any types of cancer. Every first Thursday of every month from 6 - 8 p.m. Morphy Conference Room (Old ER entrance) at Thomas Hospital, Fairhope. Preregistration not required. Call 209-1229 for more information. Cancer Support Group for Women Meetings are held the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room. For more information, call Patti Huval at 209-1229. Diabetes Support Group Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Diabetes Center. Call 279-1700 for more information. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Support Group Meetings are held every Thursday night from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 251- 9656264 for more information. Parkinson’s Support Group Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month from noon to 1 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251- 455-9919 for more information. Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Support Group Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251626-6337 for more information.
Wednesday, January 6
Read It & Eat Author Lunch – Page and Palette Join us for Read It & Eat Author Luncheon at 12:00 pm at Page & Palette (32 South Section St). Lose
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yourself in Sarah Addison Allen’s enchanting world and fall for her charmed characters in this captivating story that proves that a happily-ever-after is never the real ending to a story. It’s where the real story begins. Free Event (Call the store to purchase lunch for $10.). Please call (251) 928-5295 for more information. Winter Wednesdays – Bellingrath Gardens Bellingrath Gardens and Home hosts specialized workshops when the weather gets chilly in winter months. Each workshop covers a special feature of the Gardens or Home, tips for making your garden more spectacular or guest lectures and workshops from renowned members of the horticultural and gardening world. Reservations are requested for each program and can be made by calling (251) 973-2217. Each program begins at 10:30 AM and is $12.50 for nonmembers (includes entrance into the Gardens) and free for members. Please visit www.bellingrath.org for more information.
Thursday, January 7
Free Dyslexia Seminar 6pm - 9pm at the University of South Alabama student Ballroom, 350 Campus Drive, Mobile. Registration available online at www.uosa.EventBrite.com. Find out why bright children struggle, first with spelling, then written expression , and eventually hit a wall in reading development by third grade if not sooner. Join us as Susan Barton, dyslexia expert, shares the symptoms and causes of dyslexia, the gifted areas that come with dyslexia, effective tutoring methods, and simple classroom accommodations. This presentation is free and open to the public. Educators can also register in STIPD for Professional Development Credit: STIPD Number/Title #9958 -Dyslexia Seminar. For additional questions please contact Julie Rentz (251) 287-1822. This special event is sponsored by SARIC and Read-Write.
Friday, January 8
Art Walk First Friday Art Walk in Fairhope is a community art and entertainment event. The event is free and open to anyone. Between 20 and 30 venues are open between 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm for the Art Walk. Art Walk venues have openings, talks, music, and other special activities, and some venues have wine and appetizers. Please visit www.esartcenter.com/first-friday.php for more information.
Saturday, January 9
Black Jacket Symphony presents Journey’s “ESC4P3” The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience through recreating classic albums in a live performance setting. Journey’s “ESC4P3” album is performed in its entirety by a group of handpicked musicians specifically selected for each album, with no sonic detail being overlooked–the musicians do whatever it takes to musically reproduce the album. 8:00 pm at the Saenger Theatre (6 Joachim Street, Mobile). Please visit www.mobilesaenger.com for more information. Snow Queen Tea Party Enter a fantastical winter wonderland beyond all imagination at Ballet Theatre South’s Snow Queen Tea Party. Be magically whisked away into the wintry world of Arendelle, where you will enjoy delectable treats and be dazzled by amazing special effects and astonishing movement. Sing and dance along with Queen Elsa, her sister, Princess Anna, and their hilarious friends, Olaf, Kistoff and mystical trolls. Together, they discover true love is ultimately the most magical power of all. Proceeds benefit The Boy’s and Girl’s Club & Project Movement in Art’s community endeavors. Dates: Saturday, January 9, 7:00 pm & Sunday, January 10, 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm at the Fairhope Civic Center. Tickets or Holiday Ticket Gift Sets available at www. PMIArt.org or by phone 251-367-6634.
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Book It for Blake 5K Blake Bauer, a Corrections Officer and a volunteer Reserve Officer with the Fairhope Police Department, was recently diagnosed with a rare cancer. Proceeds from the race will go to Blake and his family for medical costs and added expenses of travel. The 5K and 1 mile fun run will start at 8:00 am at the Daphne City Hall, 1705 Main Street. Please visit raceroster.com/events/2016/7341/book-it-for-blake for more information.
Sunday, January 10
Servis 1st Bank First Light Marathon Join us in downtown Mobile for Marathon or half marathon. Please visit www.firstlightmarathon.com for more information. Snow Queen Tea Party See January 9 for more information.
Tuesday, January 12
Red Hot Mama Event: Understanding Menopause It’s cold outside but many women are feeling the heat at irregular times as a result of menopause. To help, Dr. Jeff Fahy with Premier Women’s Health is hosting the Red Hot Mama Event: Understanding Menopause. This event will take place at the Infirmary Eastern Shore Medical Complex main lobby (located across the street from Home Depot). Fahy, a Yale-trained and board certified gynecologist and pelvic surgeon, will discuss what menopause is, the various symptoms that women encounter, treatment for these symptoms - specifically hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and will even offer advice for women’s families on how to get through this time. Doors open at 6 p.m. for registration and dinner and the event begins at 6:30 p.m. with Dr. Fahy’s presentation. A delicious dinner will be served for all attendees with reservations. There is no charge to attend however reservations are required and can be made by calling (251) 937-2380. For more information, call (251) 937-2380 or visit www.drfahy.com.
Wednesday, January 13 Winter Wednesdays – Bellingrath Gardens See January 6 for more information.
Thursday, January 14
South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Things My Mother Taught Me” Olivia and Gabe are moving into their first apartment together. They’ve just packed up all of their belongings and driven halfway across the country, to start a new life together in Chicago. Their moving day doesn’t go exactly as planned, though, and things become slightly more complicated when all of their parents show up to help! Can a two bedroom apartment contain all of the love, laughs, worry and wisdom that’s about to happen? “Things My Mother Taught Me” written by Katherine DiSavino performance dates are January 1416, 21-23 at 7:30 pm and January 17 and 24 at 2:00 pm at South Baldwin Community Theatre (2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores). For more information, please visit www.sbct.biz.
Friday, January 15
South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Things My Mother Taught Me” See January 14 for more information.
Saturday, January 16
Mobile Symphony presents American Masters Our American Masters series continues with the best of the best. The Mobile Symphony presents greatest hits from Leonard Bernstein, Aaron Copland and Samuel Barber – plus two extremely gifted living composers, Christopher Rouse and Austin Wintory. Soprano soloist
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Family Calendar Julia Bullock is a superstar in the making, increasingly in demand throughout the country and around the world. Shows: January 16 at 8:00 pm and January 17 at 2:30 pm at the Saenger Theatre (6 Joachim Street, Mobile). Please visit mobilesymphony.org/events for more information. Coast Coin and Currency Show – Foley Join us January 16-17 from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm for the Gold Coast Coin & Currency Jewelry Show at the Foley Civic Center (414 E Laurel Avenue, Foley). Please visit www.foleycoinshows.com for more information. South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Things My Mother Taught Me” See January 14 for more information.
Sunday, January 17
Gulf Coast Coin and Currency Show – Foley See January 16 for more information. Mobile Symphony presents American Masters See January 17 for more information. South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Things My Mother Taught Me” See January 14 for more information.
Monday, January 18
Entertainment Series 2016 presents: Beginnings – Gulf Shores Comprised of intellectual musical talent, Beginnings was born in 2002 out of the love and respect for the music of one of the greatest American rock bands of all time – Chicago. Beginnings will kick off the Entertainment Series playing tribute to Chicago’s song book which spans more than 40 years and includes five number one albums and twenty top ten hits. This family friendly melodic adventure is pleasing to music lovers of all ages! January 18-19. Location: Erie Meyer Civic Center, 1930 W. 2nd Street, Gulf Shores. Please call (251) 968-1174 or visit www.gulfshoresal.gov for more information. Tickets: $35.
Tuesday, January 19
Entertainment Series 2016 presents: Beginnings – Gulf Shores See January 18 for more information.
Wednesday, January 20 Winter Wednesdays – Bellingrath Gardens See January 6 for more information.
Thursday, January 21
South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Things My Mother Taught Me” See January 14 for more information.
Friday, January 22
South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Things My Mother Taught Me” See January 14 for more information.
Saturday, January 23
Pirate Dash 5K/Fun Run Certified 5 k and 1 mile fun run. Fees go to support the Fairhope K-6PTC. Registration forms will be available on eventbrite.com and at Running Wild in Fairhope. Run for Shep 5K Run/Walk and Fun Run This race benefits Shephard`s Flock whose mission is to financially assist (non-medical related expenses) local families with childhood cancer warriors who are undergoing treatment at USA Children`s and Women`s Hospital. Race starts at Bounds Family YMCA (8051 Whispering Pines Road, Daphne) at 9:00 am. Please visit www.eventbrite.com for more information. South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Things My Mother Taught Me” See January 14 for more information.
Eastern Shore Parents I January 2016
Sunday, January 24
South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Things My Mother Taught Me” See January 14 for more information.
Monday, January 25
Entertainment Series 2016 presents: Live from Nashville– Gulf Shores America has always had a long love affair with country music! Fully costumed and choreographed, Live from Nashville is a spectacular production featuring twelve musicians, singers, and dancers showcasing fancy footwork, phenomenal fiddling, and top-flight vocals designed to celebrate a century of celebrities and treasured songs from Music City. January 25-26 at 7:00 pm. Location: Erie Meyer Civic Center, 1930 W. 2nd Street, Gulf Shores. Please call (251) 968-1174 or visit www.gulfshoresal.gov for more information. Tickets: $35.
Tuesday, January 26
Entertainment Series 2016 presents: Live from Nashville– Gulf Shores See January 25 for more information.
Wednesday, January 27
Chick-Fil-A Fellowship of Christian Athletes Rally Chick-Fil-A Fellowship of Christian Athletes Rally is held at the Mobile Convention Center. This event is open to public (ticket required), please visit www. southalabamafca.org for more information. Winter Wednesdays – Bellingrath Gardens See January 6 for more information.
Thursday, January 28
Grace Potter – Saenger Theatre HUKA Entertainment & 92 ZEW present Grace Potter at the Saenger Theatre (6 Joachim Street) at 7:00 pm. Grace Potter’s epic musical journey reaches a new milestone with the arrival of her solo debut, “Midnight”, an inspired work that is surprising, revelatory and wildly original. Please visit www.mobilesaenger.com for more information.
Friday, January 29
Daphne Parade – Apollo’s Mystic Ladies Join us for the Apollo’s Mystic Ladies Parade in Daphne starting at 6:45 pm. Senior Bowl Meet the Players Event The Coca-Cola Meet the Players will be held from 3:30 pm - 6:00 pm at the Mobile Convention Center and is free to the public. In addition to meeting the players, fans can enjoy interactive displays from the New Orleans Saints, Under Armour, the Marine Corps, Coca-Cola and AT&T plus games for the kids. These events are Family-friendly with interactive activities for children and adults. Please visit www.seniorbowl.com for more information.
Saturday, January 30
Knights of Ecor Rouge Parade The Knights of Ecor Rouge Parade starts at 6:45 in Fairhope. 13th Annual Mystic Mutts of Revelry The 13th Annual Mystic Mutts of Revelry (MMOR) Parade kicks off at Fairhoper’s Community Park at 10:30 with live music by David Chastang and food vendors! Save the date for a Science fiction themed MMOR event that will be strutting around the streets of downtown Fairhope at 1:00 pm! Senior Bowl Tailgate and Events Baumhower Tailgate Challenge is a competition to determine the Senior Bowl Tailgater of the Year. The Challenge is Free and open to anyone tailgating in the parking lot on game day. Also held on game day in
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January2016 the East parking lot is the Food for Less Tailgate Party which is a pre-game event held in the Ladd-Peebles Stadium parking lot on Senior Bowl Saturday. Passes for the event are free with the purchase of a Senior Bowl ticket and are limited to the first 3,500 fans. In addition to free food and drink, tailgate party goers will enjoy inflatable activities, face painters, clowns, interactives provided by the United States Marine Corps and the Coca-Cola Family Festival game trailer. For more information, visit seniorbowl.com. Senior Bowl Game The 2016 Reese’s Senior Bowl is scheduled for Mobile’s Ladd-Peebles Stadium at 1:30 pm. To purchase tickets to the Senior Bowl please call 888-736-2695 or 251432-4109 or purchase online at www.seniorbowl.com. A Day in the life of a Civil War Soldier The Independent Rifles are hosting “A Day in the Life of a Confederate Soldier” at historic Fort Gaines at 51 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm. The event showcases the day to day life as a confederate soldier while on duty at Fort Gaines. Come and experience a living history day for the whole family. Blacksmith Demonstration will be on hand all day in the Fort’s Blacksmith Shop. There will be demonstrations of military drills and training as well as the firing of the cannons and other daily duties. The Fort’s museum and gift shop are always open as well. Please call 251-861-6992 or visit dauphinisland.org/ fort-gaines for more information.
Sunday, January 31
Commedia del Arte Presents “The Ghosts of Hamlet” Commedia del Arte Presents “The Ghosts of Hamlet” at 6:30pm at the Loxley Civic Center (4198 Municipal Park Dr, Loxley). When Denmark’s melancholy prince, Hamlet, begins to see spirits, the court thinks he is mad, and he is caught between his murderous uncle and the throne with no one to help him. That is, until a pair of mischievous ghosts arrive to lend him a hand. Join Commedia del Arte for a performance of Shakespeare like you’ve never seen it before. A portion of the proceeds benefits the National Federation of the Blind. Please see www. commediadelarte.org for more information.
Monday, February 1
Entertainment Series 2016 presents: Dukes of Dixieland– Gulf Shores Unlike their Dixieland name, this group plays New Orleans jazz music, from Dr. John and Fats Domino, to Huey Smith and Louis Prima, not to mention many of their own original song. Each member is an accomplished musician with a Master’s Degree in Music. They have 26 albums and have produced 3 PBS television shows: “New Orleans Pops,” Salute to Jelly Roll Morton” and “Celebrating Satchmo.” Playing only 30 dates a year, the group plays a dinner cruise for 45 weeks a year, 7 nights a week on the Steamboat Natchez in New Orleans. February 1-2 at 7:00 pm. Location: Erie Meyer Civic Center, 1930 W. 2nd Street, Gulf Shores. Please call (251) 968-1174 or visit www. gulfshoresal.gov for more information. Tickets: $35.
Tuesday, February 2
Book Launch of “Terror at Bottle Creek” Watt Key will come to Page & Palette (32 S. Section Street) at 6:00 pm. In this gritty, realistic wilderness adventure, thirteen-year-old Cort is caught in a battle against a Gulf Coast hurricane. Amid miles of stormthrashed wetlands filled with dangerous, desperate wild animals, it’s up to Cort to win-or lose-the fight for his life and the lives of two neighbor girls. Entertainment Series 2016 presents: Dukes of Dixieland– Gulf Shores See February 1 for more information.
Wednesday, February 3 Winter Wednesdays – Bellingrath Gardens See January 6 for more information.
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Thursday, February 4
North Baldwin Community Concert Concerts will be held at The L.D. Owen Performing Arts Center (1900 S US Highway 31) on the campus of Faulkner State Community College and will begin at 7:00 pm. The concert will be featuring Fly.
Friday, February 5
Maids of Jubilee Parade The Maids of Jubilee Parade starts at 6:45 pm in Fairhope. Mystical Order of Mirams Parade The Mystical Order of Mirams Parade takes place at 6:30 pm in Orange Beach.
Saturday, February 6
Foley Parade The Foley Parade starts at 11:00 am in Foley. Mystic Revelers Parade The Mystic Revelers Parade starts at 12:00 pm in Bay Minette. Krewe of Mullet Mates Parade The Krewe of Mullet Mates Parade starts at Mullet Point at 2:00 pm. Mystics of Pleasure Parade The Mystics of Pleasure Parade starts at 5:30 pm in Orange Beach. Shadow Barons Parade The Shadow Barons Parade starts at 6:45 in Daphne. 20th Annual Chinese New Year Parade Children of the World will host its 20th Annual Chinese New Year Parade in Fairhope. Parade begins at 11:00 am at the Fairhope United Methodist Church and parades through downtown Fairhope. Join us as we celebrate this occasion with our children from around the world. For questions, call (251) 990-3550.
Sunday, February 7
Loyal Order of the Firetruck Parade The Loyal Order of the Firetruck Parade takes place at 2:29 pm in Daphne.
Monday, February 8
Order of Mystic Magnolias Parade The Order of Mystic Magnolias parade starts at 6:45 pm in Fairhope.
Tuesday, February 9
Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Association Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Association Parade starts at 10 am. Orange Beach Parade The Orange Beach Parade starts at 2:00 pm.
Wednesday, February 10 South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Take a Number, Darling” South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Take a Number, Darling” February 10-13, 17-20 at 7:30 pm and February 14 and 21 at 2:00 pm at South Baldwin Community Theatre (2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores). Please visit www.sbct.biz for more information. Winter Wednesdays – Bellingrath Gardens See January 6 for more information.
Please send your calendar events to lynn@ easternshoreparents.com! We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of these calendar events. However, you should call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.
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Star Wars: The Force Awakens
Alvin and the Chipmunks:
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: CSexual Content: A Language: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated The Force Awakens PG-13 for sci-fi action violence. Star Wars: Episode VII -- The Force Awakens is set on course to break box office records. But does it really deserve the buzz it’s receiving? Before I respond to that question, take a look the crew piloting this film. There’s J.J. Abrams, a man that may very well be the most bankable director the film industry has ever seen. He’s resurrected Mission Impossible and Star Trek to great acclaim, and now he’s been handed the next episode of one of the most recognizable brands in Hollywood. The director wastes no time setting the scene. Over the past decades the First Order has replaced the fallen Galactic Empire. While the name has changed, the song remains the same. Legions of Nazi-like Storm Troopers wait in formation for commands from their leader Kylo Ren (Adam Driver). Wearing a mask indicative of having trained at the Darth Vader School of Galactic Troublemakers, Ren takes his orders from Supreme Leader Snoke (Andy Serkis) -- a deity that only appears as an enlarged hologram. The mission these warlords are pursuing is to find the last remaining Jedi, and yes, their most-wanted man is none other than Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill). The winding plot introduces us to resistance fighter Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac), Storm Trooper defector Finn (John Boyega) and Rey (Daisy Ridley), a young woman who makes a living scavenging space junk on the desert planet Jakku. We also meet BB-8, a rolling droid that will be destined to become this generation’s R2-D2. Yet the main enjoyment of this film are the many surprises that are unveiled along its path. Parents should expect violent confrontations, with brief blood effects. Characters are sliced and diced with light sabers, countless others are shot with fantastical guns, and one individual is impaled with a light beam and sent to a harrowing death. Viewers should also be prepared to feel some emotional distress… and I’ll leave it at that. Bottom line: This is a movie that’s best suited for adults and teens. Walking in the door after my screening, my kids and their friends had one question. “Is it good?” Yes, it’s very good. Being the first installment of the next trio this movie is as much about introductions as it is about story. However, Abrams is careful not to let his own artistic priorities get in the way of delivering those somewhat sentimental moments fans are hoping to experience. Like long lost relatives showing up one-by-one at a family reunion, the director gives us a chance to have a warm embrace with each character prior to them getting back in the game.
The Road Trip MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: BSexual Content: ALanguage: AAlcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip PG for some mild rude humor. Dave Seville (Jason Lee) wants to start a new chapter in his life. Worried about how much time his sons have spent on tour, the concerned Dad has decided to switch his career from writing music to producing it so the boys may lead a more normal childhood. This all sounds pretty sensible until you remember his kids are chipmunks! Unfortunately Alvin, Simon and Theodore (voices of Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler and Jesse McCartney) haven’t really changed their tune. The three are still up to their usual mischief making and are disappointed that they won’t be singing anymore. They are also feeling just a twinge of jealousy about the Chippettes’ continuing popularity and opportunities. But these worries are eclipsed when the trio finds an engagement ring amongst Dave’s belongings. Suddenly his desire to take a different life direction takes on a frightening meaning for the boys. It isn’t their welfare Dave is worried about -- it is his new girlfriend’s. And she comes with a son named Miles who likes to torment the chipmunks. The idea of combining their families is repulsive to both parties of dependents. So, for the first time, the little mammals and the human agree to work together to try and sabotage Dave’s proposal of marriage. But to do so, the foursome will have to travel to Miami where their respective parents have gone on a business trip. Like most of Alvin’s plans, this one does not come off without a hitch. Instead numerous silly antics follow. Borrowing credit cards and stowing away on an airplane ends up altering an angry air marshal, who then chases the characters throughout the rest of the movie. When the boy and chipmunks lose the right to fly, they are forced to find other transportation to get them to their destination. This gives the musical runaways a reason to busk in a Texas bar, a bus station and with a New Orleans street band. All these stops make their journey rather meandering and tedious – as is the plot of this film. Aimed at the youngest of audiences, parents should be aware that much of the movie’s humor comes from bullying behavior, potty jokes and slapstick action. This road trip also packs along a few mild profanities, terms of deity and rude slang. However, if you can put up with ample doses of kids-know-best intentions, high-pitched helium-sounding pop tunes and corny sentimentality, then you might be okay letting your offspring ride along with the crazy chipmunks on their fourth big screen adventure.
What Parents need to know...
What Parents need to know...
Violence: Frequent scenes depict battles and countless characters being shot with various fantastical weapons -- many shootings take place on screen. Characters are injured with light sabers, and one is impaled with the weapon and killed. Most of the depictions of injuries and fatalities are quite sanitized, but one scene does depict blood. Grotesque monsters chase people, and the beasts devour a character. Various inhabited planets are destroyed -- we briefly see the people recognizing their fate and then see the world disintegrating. Sexual Content: A couple discuss their child -- it is unknown if they are married. Men and women embrace and kiss. Language: A mild profanity is used twice. Alcohol / Drug Use: A scene takes place in a pub/bar like setting. Eastern Shore Parents I January 2016
Violence: Some of the characters find themselves in perilous situations, such as when they are trying to avoid capture by an air marshal. Characters borrow credit cards, and break the law when they stow away on an airplane. Bullying, teasing and uttered threats occur. A brawl breaks out at a bar. Characters fight with one another. A man’s face is stabbed with toothpicks. Property is damaged. Sexual Content: Crude bodily functions are portrayed in a comic way. Potty humor and flatulence jokes are used. A man is hit in the groin. A slang term is used for male body parts. Characters embrace and kiss. Language: Some mild profanities and terms of deity are heard. Name-calling occurs. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters drink in a bar and during a street parade. One man becomes inebriated. 76
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ASMS
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2015 ACT Comparison 31.5
31.3
30.9
29.5
29.2
29.1
28.3 27.5
25.5
23.5
21.4
21.5
19.5
17.5
21.0
20.9
20.8
20.4
19.7 19.1
18.8
English National
19.1
18.4 Math State
Reading
Sci. Reasoning
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Composite