Eastern Shore Parents Summer Camps Issue

HERE, BABIES GET THEIR START, AND FAMILIES ARE BORN.

We haven’t just changed the experience of having a baby; we’ve transformed it, starting with a host of birthing options from the region’s only academic health system. From a traditional birthing experience, to a Gentle C-Section, to the region’s most advanced neonatal intensive care unit and maternal-fetal specialists, the experience you want is here.

SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT

At Glass Orthodontics, you’re more than just another faceyou’re a unique person and our team values that. With one dedicated doctor and a hands-on team, everyone will know your name! Consultations are always complimentary and we offer flexible appointments and interest free payment plans. With four locations to serve you, there is always something to smile about at Glass Orthodontics.

A couple of months ago, I shared what a good experience I had with my children’s childcare. It was a blessing to have such loving, caring souls watching over my little ones while I could not be there. They would often share their years of experience as professional childcare providers and as moms themselves. This opportunity also provided friendships with other moms in a similar stage of life. Some were first-time moms, and many had older children. You could easily tell the first-time moms from the veterans. Like me, they would worry over so many details that, in hindsight, really were not fret-worthy. We just wanted to be the very best parents we could. While new moms have a lot on their plate, there are some things they can let go of or at least get help with. If you are a new mom and are overwhelmed, check out Sarah Lyon’s feature, 8 Don’t Sweat It Tips for New Parents.

Fast forward to elementary school; again, it was easy to make friends with the other parents. Field trips, birthday parties, and after-school activities were just as much social events for me as for the kids. I don’t know who looked forward to them more. While finding other mom friends with common interests can be easy at times, there can be stages of parenting where it becomes more difficult to nurture those friendships. We get so wrapped up in caring for our families that we feel we don’t have the time or energy to put into our friendships. Sometimes parents may feel like they are going through things other parents may not understand. This is so unfortunate because moms and dads need these relationships. It is a place to share our joys and challenges and have someone to laugh, cry and celebrate with. If you want to meet some new mom friends or grow current friendships, Pam Molnar shares some tips in Finding Mom Friends: Tips for Getting Out There.

Speaking of getting out there, spring is here, and there are so many events that we are excited to share with you in our April Family Calendar. You will find Easter activities, cook-offs, and many more opportunities to get your family outside and enjoy this beautiful season.

Now that we all are experiencing a good dose of spring fever, we can’t help but notice that school will be out soon, and summer is right around the corner! Do you have your family’s summer plans in place? If you are looking for exciting camp opportunities for your kiddos, then this is the place to be. We have included an expanded Summer Camp Guide to help you find what you need to fill your summer calendar. Camps are a great way for your kids to try new activities, hone in on existing interests, and meet new friends.

In keeping with the “friends” theme I seem to have going here, I would like to challenge everyone to reach out to someone new, plan a coffee with an old friend you have not seen in a while, or visit with a neighbor you may have only previously waved at. After all, life is better when we share it with others.

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com

Research Editor Lucy Green

Contributing Writers

Kristi Bush, LSW Gabriele Jones

Sarah Lyons

Cheryl Maguire

Pam Molnar

Dave Ramsey

Robert L. Rux, M.D. Works of Wonder Therapy, LLC

Cover Photography

Jenn Glies Photography www.jenngliesphotography.com

President Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com

Advertising Opportunities

Lynn Knighton ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099

Ad Design

Tim Welch Web Content Manager Scott Davis

lynn@easternshoreparents.com

by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com

Teaching Kids to Communicate Effectively

Do you have difficulty engaging in healthy conversations with your coworkers, friends, and family? John and Julie Gottman are married PhDs who have dedicated their lives to researching the commonalities in healthy relationships. They have discovered four communication styles that predict family disruptions with 90% accuracy: criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling. The Gottman’s research has also determined that everyone can learn to communicate in a manner that heals the wounds caused by these destructive patterns and limits negative interactions from occurring in the future.

Replace criticism with a gentle start-up: Criticism is an attack that uses “you” language. Criticism says, “You never do what I ask you to do. You are so forgetful.” Instead, try voicing your complaints with a kind and honest, gentle start-up. A gentle start-up uses “I” language, addresses a specific complaint, and suggests a solution. For example, a gentle start-up says, “I do not like when you forget what I ask you to do. How can I help you remember these tasks in the future?”

Replace contempt with appreciation: Contempt is the most harmful of destructive communication patterns. Contempt is mean, extremely disrespectful, and full of sarcasm (which children do not understand). Contempt intends to make the recipient feel unwanted and unloved. The antidote for contempt is appreciation. We show appreciation when we take the time to notice all the positive actions and attitudes of the person we communicate with. Children need to hear what they do well. Even when they fail, we must praise them for every attempt they make to do the right thing. Research has shown that children need an 8 to 1 praise-to-correction ratio to persevere through discouragement.

Replace defensiveness with taking responsibility: As parents, we sometimes respond inappropriately toward our children out of anger or fear. When we do this, we must take responsibility for our wrongdoings. We cannot blame or justify our behavior on anyone else. As adults, it is our duty to take responsibility for all the mistakes that we make. When we admit what we have done wrong and apologize to our children, we repair any

fractures in the relationship, teach our children how to learn and grow from mistakes, and model humility.

Replace stonewalling with self-soothing: Stonewalling is when we separate from others to avoid conflict or show disapproval. Stonewalling children is extremely detrimental. Children need us to draw close, especially when their negative behavior is a reaction to big emotions. They need to know that we can handle their difficult feelings and behaviors as a building block for them to learn how to selfmanage. However, parenting is challenging and exhausting. Take the time to learn the skill of self-compassion and practice it. Knowing how to self-soothe allows you to parent well in challenging moments.

As a parent, it is your responsibility to teach these effective communication skills to your children. First, make sure that you do not model criticism, contempt, defensiveness, or stonewalling when you communicate with your children or others. Second, actively teach and make your children practice a gentle start-up, showing appreciation, taking responsibility, and self-soothing.

When a conversation goes completely wrong, have a “redo” when everyone is calm so that your children can see productive communication in practice.

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

“Discover the Delta”

2023 Delta Woods & Waters Expo

Sponsored by the City of Spanish Fort and held at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Mobile Bay Causeway, Delta Woods & Waters Expo is a vital community celebration of the amazing natural resources right here in our “backyard” and educates youth on the value of the environment and wonders of the beautiful MobileTensaw Delta.

Saturday, April 29, from 9 am – 4 pm is Family Day. Expo attendees discover the Delta through live demonstrations and hands-on experiences that bring to life the history of the Delta and provide a deeper understanding of Alabama’s past. The expo is open to the public with free admission, free parking, shuttle service, demonstrations, activities, and food trucks. A full line-up of demonstrations and activities will be announced soon! Follow us on Facebook or visit deltawoodsandwatersexpo. com. To find out how your organization can get involved contact the City of Spanish Fort at 251-626-4884.

The Original Oyster House Chelsea Garvin Spirit Award Scholarships

The Original Oyster House will award two $1,000 Chelsea Garvin Spirit Award Scholarships to high school seniors in Baldwin County. In 2006 the Chelsea Garvin Spirit Award Scholarship was created in loving memory of Chelsea Garvin who was a 2004 graduate of Fairhope High School, a Fish River Fire Department Rescue Diver, an Original Oyster House employee and a talented artist. Tragically, Chelsea’s life was cut short in a boating accident in 2005.

To qualify for the 18th Annual Chelsea Garvin Spirit Award Scholarships you must be a high school senior of Baldwin County in the 2022-2023 school year with a minimum 2.5 GPA, have participated in recent school or community art event and submit artwork that reflects the Original Oyster House brand in some way and can be displayed in the restaurant. Artwork mediums can include oil, acrylic, watercolor, gouache, pastel, charcoal, pen and ink, colored pencil, mixed media, ceramics or Sculptural media types. The winning artwork must be ready for display, completely dry and will become the property of the Original Oyster House for marketing or other purposes. Deadline for submission of art and application is Friday, April 21, 2023. Highest consideration will be for the most artistic and creative representation of the Original Oyster House. Please include the following identification on the back of artwork: Name of Artist, Title of Art, Medium, Teacher’s Name and Name of School. To submit your Chelsea Garvin Spirit Award Scholarship application and a photo of your artwork online please visit www.originaloysterhouse.com/scholarship.

NAMI Baldwin Mental Health Fair

NAMI Baldwin (National Alliance on Mental Illness, Baldwin Co Affiliate) is sponsoring its 2nd annual Mental Health Matters Mental Health Fair on Saturday, April 29th from 10-2 at the HoneyBee Park in Robertsdale. The event will feature exhibitors such as Veteran’s Affairs, Wings Across Alabama, AltaPointe, The Lighthouse, Alabama Free Clinic, Alzheimer’s Association of AL, Crisis Intervention Teams and more. Other activities include art for children, exercise for Women & Youth: The Bar Fitness, “Playhouse in the Park” by Shining Talent and more. For more information or to be an exhibitor call 251-279-0573.

Eastern Shore Business Expo

The Eastern Shore Business Expo is Baldwin County’s premier business event that showcases both local and regional companies. This must-attend event offers the business community, from small business entrepreneurs to executives, an opportunity to network with local professionals, engage with exhibitors and discover resources for business growth. The 2023 Eastern Shore Business Expo will be held at Fairhope Civic Center, Thursday, April 27 from 12pm - 5pm. This event is open to the public. In order to remain inclusive to all businesses, the Eastern Shore Business Expo entry level exhibition prices are kept to a minimum. If you are interested in a booth for your business, booths are $300. Reserve your spot now! For more information or to reserve your spot, visit www.easternshorebusiness.com

23rd Annual Chef Challenge

Join us for the 23rd Annual Chef Challenge on April 13, 2023, at the Mobile Convention Center from 6 pm – 9 pm. This culinary experience serves up a night of friendly competition, which brings together an eclectic group of local chefs and restaurants to fight hunger in our community. With your support of Chef Challenge, we look forward to continuing and innovating our hunger-relief programs and services that provide meals to those in need throughout our service area. Please visit https://www.feedingthegulfcoast.org/ get-involved/chefchallenge for more information.

Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre Presents Beauty and the Beast

Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre (ESRT) will bring the full Broadway version of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast to Henry George Park in Fairhope for the tenth annual Theatre on the Bluff on May 4-6, 2023. Directed by Erin Langley with choreography by Matthew Kiel and Joe Solomon, ESRT’s production is its most ambitious to date, featuring over 90 Baldwin and Mobile County residents. For more information and tickets visit www.easternshorerep.org.

Discover North Baldwin Outdoor Expo

Mark your calendars on April 22 for the Discover North Baldwin Outdoor Expo! The new event, sponsored by the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, will showcase all things outdoors - all in one place -Bicentennial Park in Stockton. The Outdoor Expo will be open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 22 The day’s activities will include vendors, speakers, demonstrations, food, music and more -- all pertaining to the great outdoors, whether fishing, hunting, boating, camping, gardening, farming, etc. If interested in setting up as a vendor or signing on as a sponsor, email kristina@northbaldwinchamber.com.

Dauphin Island Discovery Day is Back!

The 2023 Discovery Day will be held on Saturday, April 22, from 10am - 2pm. This event is the Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s open house for the public. Once a year, the public is given a tour of our research facilities to learn about our coastal environment and the research our team is working on. Visitors will learn about the coastal ecosystem we live in and why it’s important to conserve our precious and unique environment. Along the path of discovery, there are games and crafts for all ages. It’s a free family-fun event you don’t want to miss. For information visit http://disl.edu/events/discovery-day.

TOUCH A TRUCK

TOUCH A TRUCK is a family friendly event that offers children a hands-on opportunity to explore a variety of trucks, and meet the people who build, protect, and serve our community.

What child doesn’t dream of sitting in the driver’s seat of a bulldozer? TOUCH A TRUCK provides just that! Children will be allowed to climb aboard and ask questions about their favorite trucks in a safe environment. There will also be lunch, snacks, and treats available for purchase. Join us April 29, 2023, at our new location this year: The Grounds, located at 1035 Cody Rd N, Mobile, from 10:00am-2:00pm. Admission is $20 per vehicle at the event, there are no online tickets available. Please visit, www.rapahope.org/fundraising/touch-a-truck-2023, for more information. Touch a Truck proudly benefits Rapahope, a non-profit organization that provides adventures and recreation to children and families on the childhood cancer journey, and Adoption Rocks, non-profit organization that provides adoption help, information and adoption resources.

Madagascar The Musical

Madagascar

The Musical is coming to the Mobile Civic Center Tuesday, May 30at 7:30m. Based on the smash hit DreamWorks’ animated motion picture, Madagascar The Musical follows all your favorite cracka-lackin’ friends (Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and a colony of hilarious, clever penguins) as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Filled with outlandish characters, adventures galore and an upbeat score, you’ll have no choice but to “Move It, Move It!” Madagascar The Musical is the perfect family outing, with vibrancy and pace for audiences of all ages! Tickets can be purchased online at https://bit.ly/moveit23. Purchase in person at the Mobile Civic Center Box Office (401 Civic Center Drive; open Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 251-208-7906) or the Saenger Theatre Box Office (6 South Joachim Street; open Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; 251-208-5600). For information regarding accessible seating tickets, call 251-208-7381. (Additional fees, service charges and/or taxes may be added to ticket prices. All dates, acts and ticket prices subject to change without notice.)

IMPACT Youth Theater Presents Beauty and the Beast

IMPACT Youth Theater present the classic fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast. Enjoy as the stage comes to life, full of magic and hope. Watch as love conquers all in the endearing story that reminds each of us how appearances can be misleading. Two show times will be held on April 25, 2023 at the Daphne Civic Center. The morning show is at 10:00am and reservations are encouraged by emailing impacttheaterreservations@ gmail.com. The evening show begins at 6:30 open seating and concessions available.

Eastern Shore Lemonade Day

The Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce is excited to host its third annual Lemonade Day on Saturday, April 22 from 10AM until 2PM.

Lemonade stands will be set up in Spanish Fort, Daphne, and Fairhope on Saturday, April 22 for the public to stop by and enjoy a refreshing glass of lemonade. Lemonade, branded stands and business names are all created by the children who participate in the program. Lemonade Day teaches 3rd - 6th Graders how to start, own, and operate their very own business, a lemonade stand! Kids learn about creating their own success when they learn to set a goal, make a plan, work the plan, and achieve their dreams. By sparking entrepreneurship, we prepare today’s youth to become the business and community leaders of tomorrow. To register a lemonade stand please visit https://lemonadeday. org/eastern-shore.../brand-your-stand For more information about Lemonade Day please contact the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce at officeadmin@eschamber.com or follow the event on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/events/762477782202306.

Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

The Rash That Itches

This winter in Baldwin County has brought us lots of fun experiences--Flu, Strep, GI bugs, colds and more weather changes than you can imagine. Added to them is a resurgence of eczema. While it can happen in any age person, over 85% of all eczema occurs in persons less than five years old. The good news is that eczema completely resolves in half of all infants affected by the disorder by age three. Let’s discuss the physiology behind eczema, some potential causes, and what you can do to help minimize the rash that itches!

Eczema is a term given when the skin turns red, dry, scaly and itchy. Oftentimes, there will be a family history of allergies, asthma, or other skin conditions that can help predict if a child will have eczema. While the exact cause of eczema is unknown, it’s often thought to be linked to an overactive response by the body’s immune system to triggers such as soaps, cosmetics, jewelry, detergents, and certain types of clothing. In addition, environmental allergens and foods can trigger “flare-ups,” as well as stress, illnesses and changes in temperature and humidity.

In infants, the itchy rash can produce an oozing, crusting condition that occurs mainly on the face and scalp, but it may appear anywhere. In older kids, the skin problem occurs most often between the ages of four and

ten years old, and is characterized by round, slightly raised, itchy, and scaly eruptions on the face or trunk. These are less oozy and more scaly than in young infants, and the skin tends to appear somewhat thickened. The most frequent locations for this rash are in the bends of the elbows, behind the knees, on the backs of the wrists and ankles, and on the fingers. All types are very itchy, and the skin generally tends to be very dry. Sometimes, the eczema can occur into adulthood and tends to have localized flares of dry, itchy skin.

So, what do you do? Well, the first goal is try and identify possible triggers and eliminate them. In infants, be sure to use unscented and dye-free lotions, soaps, and detergents. And be sure to check that all caregivers are doing the same. I had one infant who was really breaking out, but the parents were using all the right products. Sure enough, when the child would go to grandma’s house a few times a week, the clothes were washed in her detergent and the child was reacting. Occasionally, I have seen children who manifested a food allergy by having really bad eczema. The most common culprits are milk, wheat, and eggs, but other environmental allergens can be responsible as well.

In terms of some treatment options, the basics include frequent use of scent free, dye-free moisturizers regularly and frequently

to minimize itchiness and dryness, especially after bathing. Some children do better with frequent baths and some do better with bathing every other day. In addition, there are other creams that can be used, but these should only be used as directed by a physician. There are certain steroid creams that can cause serious damage to the skin on the face and body if used incorrectly. Also, some children require wet and dry body wraps and I have even had parents smear Vaseline inside a kid’s socks at night to keep the feet moist! It is critical to have a very specific plan with your physician that must be followed by all caregivers to help prevent and treat eczema.

One of the most important aspects of eczema to understand is that sometimes it just happens. And, as soon as you get the eczema under control, it comes back. So, don’t give up! Stay positive! And as always, consult aap.org and your physician with questions.

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).

Sponsored by:

Sarah Nisewonger

Fairhope West Elementary School

“I became a teacher because I wanted to make a direct impact. How many other professions can truly say that? It is such a blessing,” shared Sarah Nisewonger, our April Teacher of the Month. “I remember every single one of my teachers and still use many things in my classroom that resonated with me from my time in their classrooms.”

Mrs. Nisewonger has been teaching first grade for nine years, eight of them being at Fairhope West Elementary. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and her Master’s Degree in Reading from the University of Alabama.

“I teach first grade and absolutely love it. There is something so special about this age,” she shares. “Learning is still magical to them, and they start learning to problem solve. It’s incredible to watch. We see so much growth from the beginning of first grade to the end.”

After hearing about all the fun things in Mrs. Nisewonger’s classroom, it is no wonder she was nominated for this month’s award. She describes her classroom as ‘full of movement’ and incorporates lots of singing, jumping, dancing, and more to keep her students engaged in their education.

“We do several ‘Room Transformations’ throughout the year, such as Spy Day, Mad Science Day, Glow Day, etc. These special days are when our classroom transforms, and learning comes to life,” she explains. “Overall, I just try to cultivate an environment in my classroom where my students are happy to be there and proud of who they are.”

Beyond subject matter, Mrs. Nisewonger hopes her students will take other skills with them when they leave her classroom. For example, she hopes they will be good people who are considerate of others - both core values that she establishes throughout the school year. She also desires that they will be confident problem solvers throughout their lives.

Mrs. Nisewonger says she isn’t the only one teaching in her first-grade classroom. She shares, “My students teach me something new every day, especially not to sweat the small stuff and to appreciate the little things in life.”

Sarah Nisewonger is married to John. Together they have a precious 10-month-old named Barrett. She also has two bonus kiddos, Lincoln and Natalie. As a family, they love serving on outreach projects with their church, impromptu kitchen dance parties, sporting events, and movie nights.

Autauga County Schools

Bayshore Christian School

Egg Drop Experiment

BCS 6th graders had a blast with their Egg Drop experiment last month! It was so much fun seeing all

Bayside Academy Inducts 35 into National Honor Society

On March 6, Bayside Academy inducted 35 students into the Patsy T. Phillips chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS). Congratulations to the following inductees: Emma Atkinson, Mia Bindon, Mary Frances Collins, Nina Dowhan, Trent Duncan, Marykate Foster, Lily Frailie, Lucy Frailie, Julia Hall, Jack Hicks, Michael Klimjack, Maggie Lyons, Genevieve Magli, Torin Malone, Georgia McInnis, Merri McLendon,

The Patsy T. Phillips chapter of the NHS is an organization whose objectives are to create an enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote worthy leadership, and to encourage the development of character in all students of Bayside Academy. Once inducted, members of NHS are expected to continue developing the qualities of scholarship, service, leadership, and character.

Leader in Me Student-Led Conferences at W. J. Carroll

W. J. Carroll had Leader In Me student-led conferences across all grades. We want to thank all of the parents and family members who were able to attend. This was an excellent opportunity for students, families, and teachers to have a purposeful conversation about learning. Students used this time to talk about their progress on academic or personal goals, scores, grades, or assignments, based on data they have collected throughout the year. Pictured are images from Mrs. Caroline Arthur’s fifth grade classroom.

Rhett Montgomery, Tait Moore, Reid Nagle, Starla Ou, Frannie Partin, Jessie Phillips, Susan Pittman, Maxwell Powell, Blakeley Robbins, Jack Roussos, Isabelle Rutland, Catie Sanders, Tessa Santelices, Kaytlin Sellers,

Pictured: Bayside Academy’s newly inducted members of the Patsy T. Phillips chapter of the National Honor Society.

St. Michael Senior Retreat

The St. Michael seniors recently had a special weekend retreat! This weekend is always a great time and is such a special tradition. The highlights were Saturday Vigil mass last night with Fr. Nicholas and confessions on the pier. Then they had a bonfire with s’mores, sing-alongs, and funny St. Michael stories told around the fire!

Wins County Spelling Bee

Congratulations to the 2023 Baldwin County Spelling Bee Champion, Taylor Scott. Taylor is a student at Fairhope Middle School. The 2023 trophy is presented by Melanie Matthews, BCPS Supervisor.

Culinary Arts

Congratulations to Renaissance School Senior, Andrew Wiest! Andrew will continue his Associates in Culinary Arts at Coastal Alabama Community College. We are so proud of you for following through, achieving your goals, and doing what you love!

Autauga County Schools

Renaissance High Schoolers Enjoy Prom

Renaissance School High Schoolers

enjoyed Navigators

Moon Lit Garden Gala Prom 2023!

Bayshore Christian Player of the Week

Congratulations to Jack Malone for earning the Midtown Optimist Club player of the week. Jack had 4 hits, and 5 rbi’s against 6A #8 Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa.

Rotary Club of Point Clear Hosts Fairhope High Students of the Month

A big Thank You to the Rotary Club of Point Clear for hosting a breakfast for the Fairhope High School February students of the month, Bridget Atkinson, and Noah Engel along with our faculty “Pat on the Back Winner”, Dee Dee Litaker.

Special Guest Visits Rockwell Elementary

Michael White FOX10 News stopped by Rockwell Elementary to discuss the weather with students in first and sixth grades. The students learned about the weather, meteorology, and what is like to work at FOX10 News. The students loved learning more about the weather.

Spanish Fort Middle Choirs Rank Excellent and Superior

Congratulations to our amazingly talented Spanish Fort Middle School Choirs! These students competed yesterday in the Alabama Vocal Association Solo and Ensemble Festival! Two ensembles earned excellent ratings and the other 5 earned superior ratings! So proud of these kiddos! Huge shout out to our director, Caylen Stewart for leading the way and preparing these students for success!

Autauga County Schools

Daphne Elementary Take Part in Read Across America

First grade students in Mrs. Weinacker’s class get cozy in the classroom and enjoy some independent reading time during Read Across America week at Daphne Elementary School.

Spanish Fort Elementary Figurative Language Parade

Rockwell Celebrates “Pi” Day

Rockwell Elementary 6th Grade Students had fun yesterday celebrating “Pi” Day... Custom shirts made to be a part of the number! They even had fun with eating “Pie” too!

Spanish Fort Elementary School hosted Figurative Language on Parade. 4th graders displayed some great costumes! They all did such a great job!

North Baldwin Center for Technology Students Win at District SkillsUSA

North Baldwin Center for Technology students earned seven medals from at the District SkillsUSA competition, including two for first place. Earning first place medals included

Alfonso GriffinRelated Technical Math (Building Construction) and Joshua TaylorWelding Beginner (Welding). Receiving medals for second place included Zach Coleman - Extemporaneous Speaking (Auto); Devin McLeod - Customer Service (Auto); and Aiden Wood -Action Skills (Building Construction). Third place medal winners included KC Betts and Joshua Graham - Chapter Display Group (Building Construction) and Trey PollardAutomotive Service Technology (Auto). The students are now gearing up for the state

Courage lives

Most people cannot even imagine what it feels like to watch a child take on a battle against cancer. The courage, strength and resilience our patients demonstrate every day is what inspires us to give our best. We are here when families need us the most, caring for their children and never giving up hope in their fight against cancer.

Florence B. Mathis Students Make it Rain

Miss Sumner’s class at Florence B. Mathis Elementary visited the STEAM lab again today to finish their weather study. Each student made their own rain cloud and watched it rain!

Autauga County Schools

South Baldwin

Center for Technology Practice Skills

Students at South Baldwin Center for Technology learn business techniques and strategies to foster their education.

Foley Elementary Students Learn Braille

Mrs. Worch’s students at Foley Elementary School have been learning to read in Braille. They also wrote messages to friends using Braille and read a book in Braille.

against 10 schools from Fort Walton to Bay St Louis in the Wet N Cool Regatta. Despite the changes in wind, cloudy skies and rain, they completed 12 races. St Michael won first place in “A Fleet” division (Nate Hartwell, Anna Christian Moore and Gavin Byrnes) and fifth place in “B Fleet” division (Graham Rose and Fisher Key). St Michael Sailing Team won 2nd place overall. Congratulations!

Baby Chickens at Pine Grove Elementary

The countdown is on for these baby chicks as students at Pine Grove Elementary wait for them to hatch. Students were able to candlelight the eggs to make sure they were fertile and found that all

22 eggs were fertile. The incubator, brood box and feed were provided with a grant from North Baldwin Coalition for Excellence in Education. To learn more about the Teacher Grant Program, visit nbcee.org.

Bay Minette Library

Offers STEAM/STEM Kits

Cataloger Kimberly Watson just added more STEAM/STEM kits to be checked out from the Bay Minette Public Library! The additions include “All About Magnets,”

“Robotics and Coding,” and a “Cat Kit” which includes cat bingo and a memory

game to help stimulate the mind and memory. The library is located at 205 West

J. Larry Newton Students’ Tower Garden

J. Larry Newton Students in Mrs. Harbaugh’s class had their first harvest from our tower garden! Students picked some greens for their class bearded Dragon for lunch! They also tested the pH levels of the water to make sure it’s healthy. Draco (the bearded dragon) made a clean plate from all of his greens today!

Autauga County Schools

Bayside Academy’s Chess Team Wins State Championship

On Saturday, March 11, the Bayside Chess Team traveled to Alabaster for the annual Alabama State Scholastic Chess Championships held at Thompson High School. This year, the tournament was broken into ratings divisions for the first time, and Bayside competed in the U1200 section. The event was a combined individual and team event, with the scores of the top four players counting as the team score The Admirals entered nine players and started off hot, with a perfect score of 4.0 after the first round, placing the team in sole possession of first—a lead they maintained all day. After five grueling rounds of battle, the top Bayside scorers had 13.5 points, ahead of 7A powerhouse Bob Jones of Huntsville with 12.5 points. Top scorers for the Admirals were junior Michael Klimjack, with 4.5 out of 5, sophomore Jacob Stallworth with 3.5, 7th grader Huan Chen with 3, and senior Libbi Melendez with 2.5. Klimjack also took first place in the individual competition, winning the third consecutive individual state championship for a Bayside player. He joins Ethan Dull ‘22, who won the U1400 division in 2021, and senior Wilson Engeriser, who won the U1300 division last year. Stallworth finished in 10th place and earned a medal. Rounding out the team were 7th grader John Stephen Klimjack, freshman Colt Hancock, senior Nicole Nager, 7th grader Burke Ramagosa, and freshman Boyce Magli.

The chess team is the only program at Bayside to have won state championships at all levels: varsity, junior varsity, junior high, and elementary, and the only one to win a national championship. The Chess Admirals next travel to Washington, D.C., from March 31–April 2 to compete at Nationals.

Pictured: Bayside Academy’s state championship chess team from left to right: Jacob Stallworth, John Stephen Klimjack, Michael Klimjack, Burke Ramagosa, Libbi Melendez, Boyce Magli, Huan Chen, Nicole Nager, and Colt Hancock.

J. Larry Students Design Roller Coasters

Mr. Janes’s Third Grade Engineers are testing their rollercoaster designs and are investigating the variables that affect speed.

Foley High School Art Creates

Trophies for BBQ & Blues Cook-off

The annual BBQ & Blues Cook-off started in 2009 as one of the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation’s biggest fundraisers. It is an outdoor food and music event in Downtown Foley’s Heritage Park on the second Saturday of March. An Alabama Barbecue Association Trail and Kansas City Barbeque Society-sanctioned event, the barbecue cook-off attracts corporate and individual teams competing for bragging rights in several award categories. Festival goers enjoy great food, popular blues bands, and children’s activities. Each year, our students at Foley High School paint the trophies for each category! The Grand Champion trophy was designed by Patrik Kopp and was built and painted in collaboration with our art, welding, and construction classes. These students delivered professional work making these awards even more coveted. Great work, teachers and students!

St. James Episcopal students had a blast with Dr. Seuss week!

Classical Conversations

Roy G. Biv Day

Classical Conversations of Baldwin County enjoyed a colorful day as students celebrated Roy G. Biv Day! Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet.

for ACAP

Students and faculty were ready to be ACAP ALL STARS! Students took their English Language Arts test and teachers and faculty encouraged them to get a good night’s sleep, eat a good breakfast, and come ready to be ACAP All Stars!

Renaissance School Visits Baldwin House

Renaissance School students enjoy their Sunday visits at Baldwin House!

Autauga County Schools

Belforest Student to Attend National Youth Leadership Forum

Finley McKay will represent Belforest Elementary School at this year’s National Youth Leadership Forum in a week long camp at Oglethorpe University in Georgia. Finley was nominated and accepted into the NYLF: Pathways to STEM because of her scholastic merit, leadership potential and exceptional maturity. NYLF Pathways to STEM is dedicated to the early identification, motivation, and inspiration of the nations most promising elementary school students. Finley will have the opportunity to explore a future career in three exciting STEM pathways: medicine, engineering, and crime scene investigation.

Bayshore Christian Field Trip to Hutchinson’s House

BCS 7th graders enjoyed a field trip to Mike Hutchison’s house for history class. Students enjoyed learning about early Alabama.

Christ the King Music Encore! Encore!

Congratulations to all the middle school students that participated in Music last semester! These students created a play with the help of Mrs. Beth Caldwell, CTKCS Music Teacher. Students worked extremely hard memorizing all the parts, painting backdrops and props, and creating costumes. Pictured are some CTKCS 6th graders after performing for our school community. This was a huge undertaking this quarter for the students and they did a wonderful job! Bravo!

Robertsdale High Elected FFA President

Congratulations to Jessa-Lynn Adkins from Robertsdale High School Bear Nation 2023-24 FFA South District FFA President. She will represent 20

Thanks for your example, Jarah! ... and thank you to the Daphne Police Department for all that you all do for our school and community! Go Trojans!

DMS 2023 Red Ribbon Community Service Project.

Autauga County Schools

New Sun, Earth and Moon Ozobots at Fairhope West

6th Graders at Fairhope West enjoy using the new Sun, Earth, and Moon Ozobot learning kits. Students are identifying the seasons and moon phases using the kits with the Ozobot. Thank you FEEF for supporting our STEAM learning with funds that helped us purchase these kits!

Florence B. Mathis Preps for ACAP

Mrs. Amerson’s class at Florence B. Mathis Elementary prepared for ACAP by reviewing their multiplication facts using the Kagan structure “One Stray”. Every two minutes, one student at every table was selected to move to a different table to help their new teams fill in their multiplication charts. It was a fun time full of teamwork and review!

Stonebridge Elementary Analyze Non-fiction Text

Mrs. Hurst’s class st Stonebridge Elementary spent time closely reading and analyzing nonfiction text. They collaborated to answer questions using text evidence and then presented their responses to their classmates.

Daphne

High Advanced Art Creates

Beautiful Work

All Eastern Shore middle and high schools are invited to participate in the student art mural exhibit and contest for the Fairhope Arts & Crafts Festival. This year the theme was “Fairhope, Utopia on the Bay”. At Daphne High School, Mrs. Pigage’s advanced art students

Anastasia Bennett, Esmeralda Morataya Gabe Magee, Allison Murphy, and Reese Dube all helped create our beautiful piece, which placed third!

Renaissance Senior Completes Marine Mechanic Certification

Congratulations to Renaissance School Senior, Dawson Tucker! He has been accepted and has chosen to attend Barber Technology School at Bishop State Community College. Dawson has also completed a Marine Mechanic Certification at Coastal Alabama Community College. We’re so proud of you!

Autauga County Schools

St. Michael Peer Helpers Invite Special Guest Speaker

The Peer Helpers at St. Michael recently invited Miss Breighanna Vigor, formerly Miss Coastal, Alabama, to talk to our students. The Peer Helpers heard her at their annual Jubilee and were amazed by her story so they invited her to speak to our students. She touched so many lives today sharing her story about the dangers of online predators and human trafficking. Her courage and bravery is amazing. Miss Vigor has started a nonprofit www.stoppingtraffick.com. Breighanna, thank you for sharing your amazing story and shining your light! Pictured here: Matthew Hand, Mrs. Missy Calvery (School Counselor), Mary Grace Brown, Breighanna Vigor, Tia Acker, Molly Helton

Read Across America Celebrated at Foley Elementary School

Foley Elementary celebrated Read Across America Day! Some of our Foley friends and our Reading Crew encourage you to pick up a book and read today!

Engineering at Fairhope High Students in

classes are building their annual downhill

must design, draw create their downhill the specifications given in the project outline.

Students Study Morse Code at Stonebridge

Mrs. G’s class at Stonebridge Elementary studies communication with Morse Code using a light source.

Daphne Middle Shines

Bay Minette Middle School TSA Wins Big at Competition

Technology Student Association from Bay Minette Middle School earned three top spots at the TSA competition at Coastal Alabama Community College. Catherine White and Evan Peppers won first place in Vex Robotics. The team of Pierce Coleman, Khloe Little, Ciara Comalander and Peyton Mendez came in third place in VEX Robotics. The team of Cooper Walker, Rylie Echele, and Nyvaeh Adams won second place in Technology Bowl. TSA sponsor Dana Markulj congratulated her students for their hard work and dedication in preparing for the annual contest. Qualifying teams now advance to the state-wide TSA competition. More than 100 middle and high

Fairhope East Hosts Guest Reader

Fairhope East students enjoyed Read Across America with Mayor Sherry Sullivan’s help. Thank you Mayor Sullivan!

Spanish Fort Raises Record-Breaking Funds for American Heart Association

Thank you Spanish Fort Elementary students, families and of course Coach Beech, for a school record setting Kids Heart Challenge campaign! Our school

Students who raised over $250 lined up to pie Coach Beech in the face today! Thank you for all your donations!

North Baldwin Coalition for Excellence in Education Teachers of the Year

The North Baldwin Coalition for Excellence in Education recognized the exceptional educators who were selected as the Teacher of the Year at their respective schools. The 2023 Teacher of the Year honorees include Baldwin County High: Kayland Lamar; Bay Minette Elementary: Ben Walker; Bay Minette Middle: Jennifer Jones; Delta Elementary: Darlene Gore; North Baldwin Center for Technology: Anthony Schuler; Perdido Middle: Eugenia Robinson; Perdido Elementary: Holly Whidbee; Pine Grove Elementary: Jessica Sprouse; and Stapleton Elementary: Sarah McKeough. Each honoree was presented a tote filled with gifts provided by NBCEE as well as area businesses and individuals.

Members of the NBCEE Board of Directors includes Tiz Day, Robin Cook, Kelli Wallace, and Colleen Beason. In addition to the Teacher of the Year recognition, NBCEE awards Teacher Grants

Autauga County Schools

Bayside Academy Students Excel in AISA Art Competition

Bayside Academy’s talented art students took top honors in the Alabama Independent Schools Association (AISA) District 2 art competition which includes Baldwin and Mobile County schools. Bayside’s artists brought home 34 ribbons including 14 First Place finishes and two Best of Show. First place district winners in Grades K–8 advance to the state competition, and first and second place district winners in Grades 9–12 advance to the state competition.

Best of Show

3D Arts: Frank Ruffin ‘35

Drawing (Color): Augustin

Robinson ‘33

Drawing (Non-Color)

K–1st Grade

First Place: Cora Rochofski ‘35

Third Place: Luka Lindsholm ‘35

Drawing (Color)

K–1st Grade

Second Place: Caroline Baxter ‘35

Third Place: Janey Yaeger ‘34

2nd–3rd Grade

First Place: Augustin Robinson ’33 (*Best of Show)

Honorable Mention: Nate Dunlap ‘32

4th–5th Grade

Photography

K–1st Grade

Second Place: Ann Copeland Snead ‘35

9th–12th Grade

First Place: Samuel Carpenter ‘23

Third Place: Molly Hagan ‘25 Collage

K–1st Grade

First Place: Wilder Nelson ‘35

2nd–3rd Grade

First Place: Branch Thomas ‘33

6th–8th Grade

Honorable Mention: Avery Therrell ‘29

9th–12th Grade

Second Place: Mia Bindon ‘24

Third Place: Lillie McInnis ‘23

Mixed Media

K–1st Grade

Third Place: Nora Ridley ‘35

Honorable Mention: Russell Stenier ‘33

6th–8th Grade

First Place: Lila Clark ‘28

9th–12th Grade

Second Place: Isabelle Rutland ‘24

Water Base Painting

K–1st Grade

First Place: James Newman ‘35

9th–12th Grade

Second Place: Fennel Hamilton ‘23

Printmaking

2nd–3rd Grade

First Place: Alexander Green ‘32

4th–5th Grade

First Place: Amelia Handwerger ‘31

9th–12th Grade

Honorable Mention: Virginia McCrory ‘25

First Place: Parker Chunn ‘31

6th–8th Grade

Second Place: Penny Snell ‘27

9th–12th Grade

Third Place: Fennel Hamilton ‘23

Honorable Mention: Elizabeth

Ernest ‘24

3D Arts

K–1st Grade

First Place: Frank Ruffin ‘35 (*Best of Show)

Third Place: Walker Watkins ‘35

9th–12th Grade

First Place: Rylee Ann Roberts ‘24

Second Place: Harrison Foster ‘25

Honorable Mention: Haya Idriss ‘34

2nd–3rd Grade

Honorable Mention: Hunter Eleazer ‘33

4th–5th Grade

First Place: Charlotte Denniston ‘31

Nora Ridley, Caroline Baxter, Walker Watkins, Cora Rochofski, Ann Copeland Snead, James Newman, Luka Lindsholm, Frank Ruffin, and Lucas Brooks. Not pictured: Wilder Nelson

Picture 2: Bayside Academy’s Lower School winners

front to

Haya Idriss, Janey Yaeger, Parker Chunn, Hunter Eleazer, Russell Steiner, Alexander Green, Augustin Robinson, Nate Dunlap, Sarah Kell, and Charlotte Denniston. Not pictured: Amelia Handwerger

Picture

Middle and Upper

Avery Therrell, Rylee Ann Roberts, Fennel Hamilton, Isabelle Rutland, Virginia McCrory, Penny Snell, Mia Bindon, Lillie McInnis, and Samuel Carpenter. Not pictured: Lila Clark, Elizabeth Ernest, Harrison Foster, and Molly Hagan

Picture 1: Bayside Academy’s Early Childhood Center winners from front to back:

from

back:

3: Bayside Academy’s

School winners from front to back:

Field Trip Fun with Christ the King

Recently, the 7th grade students visited Dauphin Island SeaLab to participate in their touch lab and squid dissection program. It was a great presentation and lab with the DISL teachers, followed by a tour of the Alabama Aquarium. This will be a wonderful memory for our students for many years.

Autauga County Schools

Bayside Academy Congratulates Youth Leadership Graduates

Bayside Academy congratulates its five students who graduated from the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce’s Youth Leadership program: McKean, Beverley Milteer, Emma Parvin, Jack Roussos Smith . The participants work on group projects to learn about issues in our community. According to the Chamber of Commerce, “This year, two groups of students were formed. One group presented on the issue of mental health and assistance in local schools. The other group presented a moving video on what hunger means to them in honor of the Prodisee Pantry.”

Pictured: Bayside Academy’s Youth Leadership graduates are pictured at the program’s graduation on February 6, 2023, at Coastal Alabama Community

College. Pictured left to right are Tipton Smith, Trey McKean, Beverley Milteer, Emma Parvin, and Jack Roussos.

Baldwin County National Honor Society Induction

Baldwin County High School held a ceremony to welcome its 41 newest members into the National Honor Society. As each new member was inducted, they signed the official membership book. The ceremony concluded with the lighting of the candles from current to new members as it made it all around the full circle. The four pillars of the academic honor society are to foster scholarship, service, leadersh

New members include senior Gabrielle Bidwell, Brady Bryars, Rebecca Bryars, Madilyn

Byrd, Chloe Burford, Samantha Chancey, Taylor Conway, Madison

Davis, James Drinkard, Lily Drinkard, Jackson

Duncan, Anthony

Evans, Olivia Ferguson, Gilberto Fiqueroa, Luke

Garrett, Kennedi Grace, Jada Gray, Hollee

Harville, Jae Heaton, Taylor Johnson, Cale

Jones, Lindsey Ledford, Andi McKissack, Samantha McMahill, Abbigail Paul, Nathan

Reid, Zachary Morris, JaCaleb Rivers, John Roberts, Taylor Robertson, Alanna Sanders, Addison Scarborough, Allison Siggers, Emma Simpson, Shelby Stewart and Ally Stuart.

NHS officers include Langston Lewis, president; John David Weatherford, vice president; Jaelyn Gray, secretary; Josie Williams, treasurer; Briana Broadus, historian; Luke Aplin, sargeant-at-arms; Kelsey Burford and Taylor Mitchem, event coordinators.

The faculty advisors for NHS include Kassandra Robbins, Donna Johnson, Judy Bridges, Tabetha Davis, Norleisha Lewis, Claire Celaya, Amy Boylan, Claire Turner, Alex Homan and David Garrett.

Autauga County Schools

Spanish Fort Middle TORO PRIDE Character Assembly

Spanish Fort Middle held its 3rd TORO PRIDE Character Assembly today. This new event added this year highlights and recognizes leadership amongst our students. Our goal every nine weeks is to formally recognize students who exemplify our TORO PRIDE character traits (Positivity, Respect, Integrity, Determination, and Excellence) in everything they do. Our 3rd 9 weeks’ character traits have been integrity and excellence. The formal assembly recognized students and awarded them in front of their peers and family members. Each assembly is designed to honor and recognize 4-6 students from each grade level (8 to 12 total). Students will receive a plaque sponsored by SFEEF Spanish Fort Education Enrichment Foundation, The keynote speaker for the awards today was Lenise Ligon from FOX10 News. Also on hand were City of Spanish Fort Mayor McMillian, Spanish Fort Police and Fire Chiefs, representatives from SFEEF, and BCBE Superintendent Eddie Tyler.

Spanish Fort High School Shares ACT Prep Tools with Parents

Spanish Fort High School parents came on campus to learn more about CERT and how it is such an awesome tool for increasing student ACT scores. Thank you, Ms. Angie Phillips, for leading these presentations throughout the day and thank you, parents, for showing up to learn

Bayshore Christian School Study England

BCS 1st graders enjoyed learning all about England at their British “Tea Party” last month!

First Responders Day at Daphne East Elementary

Daphne East Elementary students had a great time visiting with community responders during First Responders Day. Thanks to everyone that made a donation to this project!

Baldwin County Student Selected as Good Citizen Award Recipient

The Zachariah Godbold Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, has selected Ky Tariq McNulty as the DAR Good Citizen for Baldwin County High School. Ky was selected in recognition of his having exhibited, in an exemplary manner, in his home, school, and community, the qualities of a good citizen: Dependability, Service, Leadership, and Patriotism. Ky will be honored as the school’s DAR Good Citizen award recipient during the chapter’s April Student Awards Meeting and within the school’s Awards Ceremony later in the school year. Ky is the son of Joel Stevens and Nekia Mitchell.

Fairhope West Elementary Welcomes

Special Guests

Mrs. Madson’s class at Fairhope West Elementary enjoyed singing and making pet

Foley Middle Presents

James and the Giant Peach

The Foley Middle School theater department presented the musical James and the Giant Peach on Tuesday night and Thursday night before a

Students

Study Physics

Renaissance School

Renaissance School students experience physics in action while touring the

Autauga County Schools

Edna Fern Brill Scholarship to be Awarded

Southern View Media is proud to announce the Edna Fern Brill Scholarship which will be awarded to a current high school senior at a Mobile or Baldwin County high school. A $1000 scholarship will be awarded to a selected participant for creating the most original, creative, expressive and artistic portrayal of our Gulf Coast area. The Southern View Media Scholarship Program has been created in loving memory of Edna Fern Brill. Edna appreciated and adored the arts, especially painting and writing. Her appreciation of the local wildlife was revealed through her paintings. She unfortunately passed away due to complications from dementia in 2018. Art and applications are due on or before April 20th, 2023. We are looking for the most original and expressive portrayal of our local community. There is no fee to apply. Entries should be delivered to Southern View Media at 25369 US-98 Unit K, Daphne, AL 36526. The winner will be awarded at the Eastern Shore Business Expo on April 27.

State Trooper Visits Robertsdale Elementary for Read Across America

At Robertsdale Elementary, Ms. Davis, Earls, Jacobs, and Presley’s classes enjoyed our visit from an officer from Alabama State Troopers, his K-9 partner, and Robbie & Amber Fox. We loved our stories for Read Across America.

have looked to forward to visiting our state capital all year. While in Montgomery, we visited Old Alabama Town. It gave us a small glimpse of what life for early Alabamians was like. Our tour guide took us through carefully restored buildings, shops and homes. Our favorite was the one-room schoolhouse. As we rode through the city, we toured historical landmarks in the city such as the bus stop where Rosa Parks was arrested and Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church where Martin Luther King, Jr. pastored. We also visited the Rosa Parks Museum and the Capitol building. Our students were so wellbehaved and received many compliments throughout the day. It was truly a wonderful experience for everyone to visit places we’ve learned about in our textbooks.

Christ the King Free Throw Competition Winners

The Knights of Columbus sponsored a Free Throw Championship all across the country for boys and girls ages 9-14. At right are the champions and runner-ups from Christ the King Catholic School. These students will then continue through local, district, and jurisdictional competitions. Way to go CTKCS Saints!

Autauga County Schools

Baldwin County National Honor Society

BCVSS inducted 17 new members into National Honor Society in a candle-lighting ceremony. NHS membership has been the hallmark of student achievement for over 100 years as an organization that promotes leadership, service, character, and scholarship. NHS is over 1 million students strong, with chapters in all 50 states and US territories. Fredrick McKenzie is the faculty advisor for BCVSS NHS. Congratulations to the 2023 inductees of the BCVSS National Honor Society!

Silverhill Elementary Introduces New Book Vending Machine

Silverhill Elementary School is so excited to introduce our new book vending machine! Today we held a ribbon cutting and our top AR point earners were among the first to receive a gold token to choose their own special book! Faculty and staff will soon be on the look out for student leaders around campus to distribute more reward tokens!

Daphne High Scholar’s Bowl Teams Win County Championships

Congratulations to the DHS JV and Varsity Scholar’s Bowl teams for winning the county championships. This is the second year in a row that both teams have won these titles.

Spanish Fort High School Preps for Success

Spanish Fort High School had a busy Saturday of academics: AP Calculus students took their mock exam and juniors attended a free ACT boot camp session led by Mignon Poche.

April’s dinner recipe comes to us from Paige Townley of Silverhill, AL. “After much deliberation, we chose to go with my beef tips recipe,” shared Paige. “It’s a fan favorite, and whenever it’s on the menu, my mom and my sister’s family cancel all plans and come over for dinner!”

Paige, a photographer, is married to her high school sweetheart, Darrell, a Riviera Lineman. Together, they have two boys, Carter (12) and Briggs (6). The family enjoys all things outdoors, like hunting, fishing, grilling, and being together at the kids’ sporting events.

“Right now, we are at the ballpark 4-5 days out of the week, and we are loving every minute of it,” shares Paige. Her family brings her the most joy in life, and she loves being enveloped in her children’s world. “At this phase in our lives, mine and my husband’s hobbies are whatever our boys’ hobbies are at that moment. One day they will be grown and off on their own. We won’t ever get this time back with them while they are young.”

In her free time, Paige enjoys volunteering in the community. She has served on the PTA at Silverhill Elementary School for three years. She is also on the Town of Silverhill’s Planning and Zoning committee and the Central Baldwin Public School Commission board.

Eating as a family is a priority for the Townley family, but sometimes busy nights get the best of them, even with an Instant Pot on hand. The family might eat out a few nights a week, but Paige also does her best to have dinner at home.

“On busy nights, I like to buy a precooked rotisserie chicken and just whip up some easy sides or even shred the chicken and make a quick wrap to take with us on the go,” Paige said.

The Townley crew hopes these Instant Beef Tips will become a family favorite for Eastern Shore parents.

“It’s so delicious,” says Paige. “It’s one of those meals that everyone goes back to for seconds, and it tastes just as good as leftovers the next day - if there are any!”

Instant Beef Tips & Gravy

Ingredients

Seasoning Rub:

Directions

Brown the Meat:

1. Turn on the pot’s Sauté setting (high temperature).

2. Put your steak cubes into the baggie with the seasoning mixture and shake to coat all of the meat with the seasoning.

3. When the Instant pot is hot, add the oil. Then add half of the steak cubes in one layer. Brown both sides, but don’t cook through, and remove to a plate. Repeat with the second half of the meat.

Make the Gravy:

1. Add the butter and onion to the pot. Stir and scrape the bottom of the pot, getting up all of the browned bits.

2. Add the garlic, stir. Cook about 20 seconds, then add the red wine.

• 3 Tbsp Flour

• 2 tsp Steak Seasoning

• 2 tsp Garlic Powder

• 1 tsp Onion Powder

• 1 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt

• 1/2 tsp Pepper

In a gallon sized baggie, mix together the seasoning ingredients. Set aside.

Beef:

• 2 lbs Beef Sirloin Tips (or you can get a roast and cut it in 2” cubes) or use venison if your husband is an avid hunter

• 2 Tbsp Olive Oil

Gravy:

• 2 Tbsp Butter

• 1 Onion, chopped

• 2 lg cloves Garlic, minced

• 1/3 c Red Wine (or use extra beef broth)

• 1 tsp Beef Bouillon

• 1 (10.5) oz can Beef Broth

• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce

3. Add the bouillon, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to dissolve the bouillon. Cancel the Sauté Setting.

Cook the Beef Tips:

1. Add the beef tips back into the pot. Close the lid and seal it.

2. Set the cook time for 25 minutes. High pressure.

3. When the cook time finishes, let the pot sit undisturbed for a 10 minute natural release.

4. Turn the steam release knob to Venting and release the remaining pressure.

5. Stir, taste the gravy and adjust salt, if necessary.

6. Serve over mashed potatoes, or rice.

Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August.

Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.

When we moved into our new neighborhood, I was pregnant and still working full-time. Although the neighborhood was filled with moms, I never had time to do more than wave hello.

When my daughter was born that December, it was too cold to stroll outside for a chance meeting and I felt silly walking up to a door unannounced. When we got outside in the spring, I tried to put myself out there, but the responses were less than enthusiastic.

Who knew making friends as an adult would be so hard? Here’s some advice to help!

1. Make the first move. It may sound intimidating, but it is that easy. If you are enjoying small talk with a mom on the playground or the sidelines of the game, exchange contact information. Suggest a stop for ice cream on the way home to continue the conversation. If you feel you have a connection, don’t be afraid to invite her over next week for a play date with the kids or out for a glass of wine.

2. Join social media groups. Facebook has tons of “What’s Happening in Your Town” groups as well as those specific to your neighborhood. I found my current Bunco group after reading someone’s post who wanted to start playing again. If you are looking for a running buddy, book club or bachelor watch party, put yourself out there with a post asking if anyone else is interested in joining.

3. There’s an app for that. Yes, there is an app for everything, including making new friends. Peanut is like a dating app, but made for women of all stages of motherhood. Meetup is an app for finding people with common interests in your area or online. The Nextdoor app is a local app that allows you to find groups like dog owners, gardeners and other common interests. It also lists local events in your area, opening the opportunity to gather with others who share your interests.

4. Go where other moms go. Get out of the house with your child and head to MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Mommy and Me classes, storytime at the library or swim lessons. Moms can also be found on school committees and other activities your child is involved in. When you get there, introduce yourself and strike up a conversation. You never know who will be your next best friend.

5. Find groups of like-minded people through gyms, volunteer spots or churches. While it is nice to find friends who have children the same age as your kids, it is not a prerequisite for friendship. It is important to look for friends who have common interests like reading, running 5Ks or baking. If they are moms with older children, they could be a great source of advice for the next stage of parenting.

6. Introduce yourself to the neighbors. Some of my best mom friends live in my neighborhood. Even if you have only had a casual conversation with a few of them, consider hosting a driveway potluck or a game night like Euchre. If your neighborhood has events like a bicycle parade on the 4th of July or an Easter Egg Hunt, consider getting involved in the planning committee to meet more people.

7. Be a matchmaker for your friends. While my preschool-aged son was playing outside with one of the neighborhood girls, I mentioned to her mom, Tracey, that he didn’t have any friends who were boys. Tracey told me of another mom who said the same thing about her son. The next week, our mutual friend hosted a playdate for the three of them (and their moms) allowing us all to make new friends.

8. Don’t give up, it takes time. Like anything, it takes effort to be successful. Once you have made a connection with someone, keep feeding the relationship with opportunities to get together. However, realize that not every new connection will become a friendship and know when it is time to move on to the next person.

To find a location near you visit uampa.com or call 251-433-1895 to make an appointment.

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer who spends much of her time in front of a computer. Despite that fact, she is blessed with many mom friends she has met over the years.

A large family is a wonderful thing.

But, if you’re thinking about a vasectomy, we’d love to talk.

Work First, Play Later

Q I brought about $15,000 in student loan debt into our marriage. I’m 26, my wife is 27, and we’ve been married a little over a year. During that time, our parents have helped us out with financial gifts occasionally. Whenever this happens, my wife and I get into an argument. She likes to use the cash they give us to have fun, but I think we should use it to pay down debt and get our finances in order. What is your opinion?

A. If your parents didn’t specify what the money is for, then it’s up to you guys to decide together how it will be used. In my mind, the fun needs to be put on hold for a while.

You’ve already told me you have at least $15,000 in debt. If there’s more debt in the picture, I’d advise listing all your debts, and begin knocking them

out from smallest to largest using the debt snowball system. Debt is risk, and as long as it’s around it’s eating up your largest wealth-building tool—your income.

I’m sure your wife is a good, smart lady. But it’s time she started being a little more mature when it comes to financial matters. Let her know how important this is to you and why it’s so important to your future as a couple. You two should be working together and getting your financial house in order as a team.

I recommend treating the money from your parents just like a paycheck. That means including it in a written, monthly budget, and taking care bills, debt, and any other financial responsibilities you have first.

Trust me, there’ll be plenty of time for fun later. The amount of student loan debt you have isn’t astronomical, but it does need to be cleaned up as fast as possible.

Once that’s taken care of, you’ll be able to really concentrate on saving and investing—and yes, some fun along the way!

Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases

Chang Can Dunk Disney+

Determined to increase his social cred and impress Kristy, the new girl in marching band, Chang makes a bet with his frenemy, Matt. In ten weeks, Chang will learn to dunk and will prove it in the school gym. This movie begins as a standard sports film with training montages and on court footage. It gets more interesting when Chan g has to undergo some serious self -assessment, acknowledge his errors, and rebuild the important relationships in his life. With minimal negative content and lots of empathy for the trials of adolescence, this is a slam dunk for families . Photo ©Disney+

When Mills agrees to pilot a two year deep space voyage, he doesn’t expect to sustain damage in an asteroid belt and make an emergency landing on an unknown planet – Earth. There are no humans on Earth because it’s 65 million years ago and the planet is dominated by dinosaurs. Mills knows that one of those asteroids could hit the planet so he and the other survivor (a young girl) must make it to the escape pod quickly. This could have been an interesting film but terrible editing, bad special effects, and unconvincing dinosaurs suck out all the fun . Photo ©Sony Pictures

A series of bad choices leave basketball coach Marcus Marakovich unemployed and sentenced to 90 days community service, specifically, coaching a team of players with intellectual disabiliti es. Champions starts off as a typical underdog sports flick but it has the courage to shake up the formula in the service of its message about the value of having different ways of seeing the world. The movie overflows with positive themes about dignity, respect, and redemption but is undermined by crude sexual conversations and a transactional sexual relationship. Photo ©Focus Features

When Donnie Creed’s old friend, Damian appears at his gym after spending 18 years in prison, Donnie agrees to help him build a professional boxing career. But Damian has a bigger agenda – one designed to hurt Donnie. This production hits all the beats of a basic boxing movie but it stands out for providing an emotional character story and some highly skilled cinematography. It also contains a fair bit of boxingrelated violence and some profanity. Photo ©United Artists Releasing

While Ant-Man promotes his new book, his daughter Cassie spends her time investigating the Quantum Realm, an area of existence smaller than sub -atomic particles. Her equipment draws her, Ant-Man, and some friends into the realm, where they confront Kang, a supervillain who wants to conquer the multiverse. This film features infrequent profanity and non-stop, digitally enhanced violence. It also offers familiar messages about courage, loyalty, and determination, and a bland plot that will please fans and bore everyone else Photo ©Disney Motion Pictures Studios

Having a baby is one of the most amazing and anticipated moments in a person’s life. You have prepared the nursery, installed the car seat, read parenting books, and it’s time to bring your baby home and start life with a new family member. While having a new baby is a fun and exciting time, it can also be exhausting and overwhelming. Adjusting to having an infant at home takes time and there are several things you don’t need to sweat as you figure out your new normal.

What are some things that aren’t worth stressing over while you enjoy time with your new baby?

Housework

It’s nice to have a house that is neat and clean but the thing about housework is that it never goes away. Once you get the house clean, it’s messy again. While you enjoy your new baby, try to let some of the cleaning go. Do the bare minimum while you rest, recover, and recuperate from birth and snuggle your newborn.

Cooking

Immediately after bringing home a baby is not the time to cook elaborate meals, or sometimes, any meals at all.

However, you do need to eat regular and nutritious meals, so keep it simple. Stock the pantry with items that are quick and easy to eat while you care for the baby. Wendy Haviland, mom of two, says, “I prepared freezer meals before the baby was born so I had something to put in the oven or crock pot when I was tired from taking care of a newborn.” You can also ask friends to set up a meal train where family and friends can bring dinner during the first few days after the

birth of your baby. This will eliminate the need to shop and cook when you are recovering.

Spoiling baby

When I first became a mom I was warned that I shouldn’t hold my new-

born too much or while he was sleeping because it might “spoil” him, and then he would never sleep in his own bed or let me put him down for a few minutes. This is simply not true. There is no such thing as a spoiled baby. Newborns sleep most of the

held. It also creates a strong bond between parent and child. There is no such thing as sleep training a newborn or spoiling a new baby. Enjoy as much cuddle time as you care to and let that worry go.

Naptime

One old saying is certainly true... “sleep when the baby is sleeping.” This really is the best advice you will receive. As a person who likes to keep busy, I found it hard to allow myself to take naps during the day. Once the exhaustion of being up most of the night nursing my newborn hit me, I decided to give myself permission to take a nap when my baby does. Moms need rest and your body needs time to recuperate after the stress of giving birth.

Accept help

It can be hard to accept help when you are used to doing everything yourself, but when you have a new baby at home any help offered can be a huge blessing. Take people up on their offers to bring meals, help with older children’s carpool, or clean the house. Don’t just have them do the easy, quick chores that aren’t difficult to keep up on - let them vacuum

the house, do laundry, and wash dishes, which all seem to get behind quickly. While you have help, jump in the shower, take a nap, or run a much needed errand. People offer to help because they want to. You can always pay it forward when you find your new normal.

Take turns

It can be hard, especially for breastfeeding moms, not to get overtired. As much as possible, share the task of caretaking with your partner. Some moms will find it hard to pass the baby care to their husbands, but dads often feel left out and want to jump in. He may not do things exactly as you do, but that’s okay. As long as the baby is clean, fed, and happy there isn’t anything to stress over. This will also give Dad time to bond with the baby as well.

Take a break

Having a new baby can be physically and emotionally taxing. It is okay to admit you may need a break sometimes. If you are feeling overwhelmed, schedule a time your spouse or a friend can take care of the baby while you step out of the house for a short while. Breastfeeding moms may find it is hard to get away for extended periods,

but typically taking a break for an hour or two can do a lot to improve your mood.

Be flexible

When you are adjusting to having a new baby, it’s important to realize it will take awhile to find your routine again. When planning an outing, think ahead. Pack items you might need including extra diapers, clothes for you and the baby, and be prepared to feed the baby on the go if needed. It’s also important to accept that sometimes an outing will not go as well as planned and it’s okay to head home early. Be flexible and go easy on yourself when it comes to taking the baby out for the first time and when trying to get things done around the house. This is normal and will get easier in time.

Adding a new family member is both exciting and disruptive to a family. In time, you will adjust to your newborn and won’t be able to imagine your family without them. In the meantime, give yourself, your spouse, and your other children time to adjust to this big change. It’s okay to let go of some of the things that take up your time and focus on the baby.

Sarah Lyons is a frequent contributor.

ESP

Art Camps

Bayside Summer Art Camps

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Bayside Academy, 303 Dryer Avenue, Daphne, AL 36532

Bayside Academy is offering a wide variety of art camps including jewelry making, fairy garden, pottery, and cooking. For a complete list and description of camps you can view the Bayside catalog at www.baysideacademy.org/summer-camps .

(251) 338-6473 www.beyondbayside.campbrain registration.com/

Eastern Shore Art Center

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401 Oak Street, Fairhope, AL 36532

Art Bash 2023 - May 29th-July 14th. MondayFriday, Full day (10am-3pm) and half day (10am12pm). Ages 5-15. Explore our Art Bash 2023 catalog to find a variety of courses like Creative Writing, Pottery, Painting, Photography, and Digital Arts. Register today!

(251) 928-2228 (Ext. 100 www.esartcenter.org

Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach

26389 Canal Road, Orange Beach, AL 36561

June 5 -9, 9:00am-12:00pm for rising 3rd-7th grade. Ignite your child’s creative side at the Gulf Coast’s premier children’s art program! Please visit our website for more information.

(251) 981-ARTS www.coastalartscenter.com

Coastal Makers, LLC

Locations in Mobile and Baldwin County, AL

Send your kiddo on an art adventure this summer! Prepare to get messy, have fun, and create cool art! Designed for ages 6-up. Visit our website or Facebook page for camps in Mobile and Baldwin County.

(251) 455-2909 www.coastalmakers.com

Hammer & Stain

25325 US Hwy 98, Suite G, Daphne, AL 36526

2 different themed camps. Suf Sand & Sun Camp and Christmas in July Camp. Each day we’ll make fun projects while influencing creativity and inspiring young imaginations. Ages 7-13 welcome. Monday-Friday 9:00-12:00 daily with snack included.

(251) 929-4640 hammerandstaineasternshore.com

Cheer / Dance / Gymnastics

Creative Outlet Dance Academy

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66 South Section Street, Fairhope, AL 36532

Offering a variety of dance camps this summer for ages 3-5 and ages 6-8. All camps are from 10:00am - 12:30pm. All classes will include creative movement, ballet, jazz and improvisation. Themes include:

“Be Our Guest” June 5th - 8th and July 10th - 13th

“Under the Sea” June 12th - 15th and July 17th - 20th

“Howdy Partner” June 19th - 22nd and July 24th - 27th. Cost is $150 per camp.

(251) 928-9511 www.creativeoutletdance.com

Eastern Shore Dance Academy

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9063 Merritt Lane, Daphne, AL 36526

Join us for a full season of Summer Dance Camps and classes.

Dance Camps (ages 2.5 - 5), Rising Stars Camp (grades 1-5), Junior Dance Intensive (grades 6-8), Senior Dance Intensive (grades 9-12). Scan the QR code on our ad in this issue for details.

(251) 626-2300 www.ESDA.us

Gulf Coast Dance Alliance ad on page 49

30752 Ember Lane, Spanish Fort, AL 36527

2023 Summer Dance Camps June 5th - 9th:

Fairytale Dance Camp (ages 3-6), 10am - 12pm. GCDA on Broadway (ages 7-11), 9am - 12pm, GCDA Dance Jamz (ages 9 - 12), 9am - 12pm. (251) 621-9755 www.gcdadance.com

Mobile Ballet Eastern Shore ad on page 61

26436-B Kensington Place, Daphne, AL 36526

Offering Dance Camps and Intensives. Princess & Pirate Camp: (Age 3-5) Ballet, Creative Movement, Jazz and more! June5-8 & July 17-20. #LetsDance Camp: (Age 6-9) June 5-8 & July

17-20. Our Summer Intensives: (Mobile Studio only) Ages 12 & up and one year of pointe training required, June 5-23, 2023. Junior Intensive - Ages 10 and up, two years of ballet training required, June 12-23, 2023.

(251) 626-8932 www.mobileballet.org

Sheffield School of DanceEastern Shore ad on page 66

The Shoppes at Fairhope Village, 151 Fly Creek Avenue (Suite 430 & 432), Fairhope, AL 36532

Magical Princess Camp (ages 3-5), June 20-22, West Mobile and Eastern Shore locations. Ballet, Creative Movement, Princess Fun.

Dance It Out Camp (ages 6-10), June 20-22, West Mobile & Eastern Shore Locations. Jazz, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Ballet, Tap. The Intensive (ages 7-12, 13+), July 17-21, West Mobile Location. Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop & Acro.

Ballet Boot Camp (ages 7-9, 10+), July 24-27, West Mobile Location. Ballet, Pointe, Floor Barre & more!

(251) 219-7877 www.sheffielddance.com

Whether you want them to experience day or overnight camp, sports or fine arts, our listing has details on these and many more. It’s time to get your young campers ready for a summer of fun!

Bay Shore Ballet Academy

305 Fels Avenue, Fairhope, AL 36532

Bay Shore Ballet is excited to present another summer of exhilarating dance camps with our talented instructors. Call for dates, times, ages, and registration information.

(251) 990-9744 www.facebook.com/bayshoreballet

Next Level Tumbling and Training Center

26090 Equity Drive, Daphne, AL 36526

June 12-16, July 10-14, 2023. Monday-Thursday 8:45am-12pm, Friday 8:45am-2:00pm. Open to ages 4-12 years. Non-refundable Registration fee $100. $250/week per camper. Space is limited so register online Today.

(251) 621-5797 www.nextleveltumbling.com

Studio B Dance Academy

20585 County Road 13, Fairhope, AL 36532

8051 Whispering Pines Road, Daphne, AL 36526

Voted Baldwin County’s BEST Dance Studio 2023 in the Best of Baldwin Awards! Summer dance camp sessions in Fairhope & Daphne. Offering ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, tumbling, arts & crafts, dress-up, and more!

(251) 643-4976 www.studiobalabama.com

Summer Fun at kbdanz!

21883 Hwy 181, Building 3A, Fairhope, AL 36532

Be the first to get our summer schedule information and register early, by joining our mailing list! Check it out on www.kbdanz.com.

(251) 776-2699 www.kbdanz.com

Susan’s Academy of Dance

7966 American Way, Daphne, AL 36526

Several dance camps and workshops will be offered this summer! Follow us on Facebook or visit us online for updates!

(251) 626-3835 www.susansacademyofdance.com

Day Camps

Bay Camp

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Located on the campus of Celebration Church, 8180 Dyer Road , Fairhope, AL 36532

Summer Camp begins May 30 and runs through the end of Summer Break. Monday - Friday from

7:00am - 6:00pm for ages 5 - 12 years. A full summer of fun! Explorative field trips, swimming, art, movies, friends and great memories!

(251) 752-4897 www.baycamp.org

Bayside Summer Day Camp

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Bayside Academy, 303 Dryer Avenue, Daphne, AL 36532

Ages 6-12 years. Monday - Friday from 7:00am6:00pm. Camp Bayside offers campers the opportunity to explore, create, play and discover! Fees include lunch, a camp shirt, and weekly field trips. Non-refundable $100 registration fee. Entire Summer $1600, Weekly: Full Week $195, Partial Week $150. Visit the website above for registration.

(251) 338-6473 www.beyondbayside.campbrain registration.com/

Dauphin Island Sea LabSummer Day Camps

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101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528

Oceans Alive - June 2 or July 6 (ages 5 - 8); BIO Blitz- June 1 or June 15 (ages 8 - 10); Ocean Bytes- June 9 or July 7 (ages 9-11); Survivor: Dauphin Island - June 8, July 5, or July 21 (ages 10-13). Registration/camp specifics are available online.

(251) 861-2141 (ext. 7515) www.disl.org

Fairhope Point Clear Rotary Youth Summer Enrichment Camps

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19128 Young Street, Fairhope, AL 36532

June 5-July 28, 2023, Monday - Friday 8:00am5:30pm (early care from 7:00am available). Ages K-12th grade. Arts, Education, Sports, Leadership, Character, Recreation and more!

(251) 928-9148 www.rotaryyouthclub.org

Gulf Camp - Summer Eco Camp

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Gulf State Park, Summer day camp (ages 7-13). Camp activities include kayaking, biking, beach exploration, swimming, nature, arts and crafts, outdoor

cooking, and more! Sessions: July 3-7, July 10-14, July 17-21, July 24-28, 2023. Monday-Friday; 8am12pm; $185/week,$40 for a one-day pass. (251) 210-8721 www.gulfcenter.org/summer

Kidcam Camps at OWA Parks and Resort

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OWA, 1501 S OWA Boulevard, Foley , AL 36535 Campers get to utilize the amusement park rides, indoor water park, STEM, art and much more! May 30-Aug 4, 2023. Monday-Friday 9:00am3:00pm. Ages: 5-13 years. extended care options. (877) 454-3226 www.kidcamcamp.com/camplocations-1/owa

Ruff Wilson Youth Center

Summer Camp

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Ruff Wilson Youth Center, 1317 Johnson Road, Daphne, AL 36526

Come Learn and Explore New Things @The Ruff. Dates May 31, 2023 to July 27, 2023: Monday - Thursday from 7:30am-5:30pm Closed each Friday. Cost: $300 per child for the entire summer camp session. Ages K-6th grade. A summer of excitement and empowerment for the mind, body, and soul! Registration: May 30, 2023 from 1:30pm-5:30pm. Please call for more information. (251) 621-7171 www.rwyo.org

St. James Episcopal School

Summer Day Camp

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860 North Section Street, Fairhope, AL 36532 June 12-July 21, ages PreK3 (fully potty-trained) through rising 3rd graders. Students that do not attend St. James School may participate. 7:30am2:30pm. Weekly camp schedule and registration packet available on our website at stjamesfairhope.school. Registration begins March 7. (251) 928-2912 www.stjamesfairhope.school

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo - Summer Camp

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, 20499 Oak Road East, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Campers will have the opportunity to learn about

animals and conservation, through hands-on activities and crafts, up-close animal experiences, and so much more. Week-long sessions from June 5-August 4 (No camp week of July 4th). Day Camp (Monday-Friday) runs from 8:30am-3:30pm (Before and After Care available) for campers in rising Kindergarten- 8th Grade.

(251) 256-7008 www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.com

Auburn University Pharmacy Day Camp Harrison School of Pharmacy - USA Campus, 650 Clinic Drive, Rm 2100, Mobile, AL 36688 This unique opportunity is for rising high school 11th and 12th grade students as well as rising college freshmen who are interested in pharmacy. This hands-on experience will allow campers to explore the profession through various learning experiences.

(251) 445-9300 www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/ auburnyouthprograms/pharmacymobile.htm

Boy Scouts of America Cub Scout Day Camp

Camp Silvercreek, 16914 Co Rd 52, Silverhill, AL 36576

Baldwin Cub Scout Day Camp - June 12-June 15. Visit the website for more information.

(251) 476-4600 www.bsamac.org

Camp 3Circle | Daphne Campus

10080 County Road 64, Daphne, AL 36526

June 5-9; Camp 3Circle is a fun-filled week for kids ages 4 years-4th grade. We incorporate worship, Bible study, and games to point children to God’s great love for them.

(251) 990-3112 info@3circlechurch.com www.3circlechurch.com/camp

Camp 3Circle | Fairhope Campus

10274 State Highway 104, Fairhope, AL 36532

June 5-9; Camp 3Circle is a fun-filled week for kids ages 4 years-4th grade. We incorporate worship, Bible study, and games to point children to God’s great love for them.

(251) 990-3112 info@3circlechurch.com www.3circlechurch.com/camp

Camp 3Circle | Robertsdale Campus

21630 Highway 59, Robertsdale, AL 36567

July 10-14; Camp 3Circle is a fun-filled week for kids ages 4 years-4th grade. We incorporate worship, Bible study, and games to point children to God’s great love for them.

(251) 990-3112 iwww.3circlechurch.com/camp

Camp Chandler Tonsmeire

2701 Shelton Beach Rd Extension, Mobile, AL 36618

An outdoor education facility focused on character and leadership development while saving our children from nature-deficit disorder and summer learning loss. This is the place where kids can be kids and enjoy a day of adventure in a traditional day camp setting. Ages 6-13.

(251) 423-2180 www.bgcsouthal.org/camp

Central Christian School Summer Day Camp

17395 Highway 104, Robertsdale, AL 36567 Day Camp May 30-August 4 , 2023. Monday

- Friday 7:00am-5:30pm. Ages K3 - 6th grade. Registration is $50 (includes a t-shirt). Cost: $160 per week for 5 days or $85 per week for 2 days. Weekly fee includes 2 snacks, lunch, & all Field Trips. Activities include: Swimming/Water Play, Arts/Crafts, Excursions, Movies, Bible Stories, Outdoor Activities and Open Gym. Register

Online Today!

(251) 947-5043 www.ccssaints.com

City of Gulf Shores SPARC

Summer Camp

Gulf Shores Cultural Center, 19470 Oak Road West , Gulf Shores, AL 36542 SPARC Summer Camp provides our community’s youth with a safe and fun environment to learn, play, & grow. Open to completed grades K-5.

(251) 968-9818 www.gulfshoresal.gov/sparc

Eastern Shore Academy of Excellence

23946-B US Highway 98, Fairhope, AL 36532 Monday - Friday 6:30am-5:00pm for ages 6 weeks–12 years. Summer programs offer field trips, arts/crafts, music, science & discovery, swimming and more! Please call or visit website to register.

(251) 243-5153 www.facebook.com/Eastern ShoreAcademy

Eastern Shore Montessori

980 Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526

Children will enjoy many activities including arts and crafts, play dough, hands-on projects, activities and games. Programs run June - August, 2021 from 7:00am-5:30pm. Ages 18 months - 5 years.

(251) 626-7505 esmontessorischool@gmail.com

Exceptional Foundation Gulf Coast 28788 North Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526

June 5- July 27, 2023. This program will be filled with friends, fun, field trips, and more! M-Th

8:00am – 5:30pm. From age 10-High School

Seniors. EFGC is a nonprofit 501 (c) (3) program that provides social and recreational enrichment opportunities for the special needs communities of Baldwin and Mobile counties. There is limited availability.

(251) 625-8955 www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org

Expect Excellence Program

4849 S Wilson Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561

Summer program: May 30-August 4, 2023 for rising 1st-7th grade and provides a combination of recreational and educational activities for a wellbalanced, out-of-school experience.

(251) 981-7836 www.orangebeachal.gov

First Kids Summer Day Camp

First Baptist Church, 300 South Section Street, Fairhope, AL 36532

Field trips, music, arts/crafts, sign language, drama, Bible study, movies, tech days, outdoor play and more.. 7:30am–5:30pm. Ages: completed Kindergarten- 6th grade. Full time/Part time options.

(251) 928-8685 www.firstfairhope.org

Friendly Insects in the Garden – Day Camp

Gulf Coast Research & Extension Center, 8300 AL-104, Fairhope, AL 36532

June 16, 2023; 8:30-12:00; Ideal for ages 8-14; Fairhope; Registration required.

(251) 937-7176 facebook.com/baldwincountyal4h/

Hot Wheels Skate Center

616 Whispering Pines Drive, Daphne, AL 36526

Energetic day camps for ages 6-12. Roller Skating, Inflatables, Basketball, Air-Hockey, PingPong, Pool Table, Field Trips, Art and Crafts and much more.

(251) 626-5120 www.hotwheelsdaphne.com

Summer Enrichment Program

1391 South Cedar Street, Foley, AL 36535 Our Summer Enrichment Program is kidfocused, fun, and engaging! Kids will enjoy exciting summer activities that include Summer Brain Gain, field trips, sports, swimming, arts and crafts, while learning the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

(251) 943-1483 www.bgcsouthal.org/summer

YMCA of South Alabama

Bounds Family YMCA, 8051 Whispering Pines Road, Daphne, AL 36526

It’s Summer Time 2023 -May 30-August 11, 2023. Monday - Friday from 7am - 6pm for ages 5-14 years. Please call or email with questions. (251) 626-0888 www.ysal.org

Educational and Miscellaneous

Alabama School of Math and Science

STEM Leadership Academy

Summer Camp

ad on Inside Front Cover

1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604

Course Sampling: 3D printing, ACT Prep, Cybersecurity, Creative Chemistry, Robotics, Rocketry, Mini Medical School, Python Basics, and much more! Dates: June 5-9, and June 12-16, 2023 for rising 7th-9th graders. Cost: $455. All campers reside overnight for the week and meals and lodging are included in the cost. Camp Registration. Registration Deadline: May 15, 2023. (251) 441-2100 www.asms.net

Bayside Summer Camps

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Bayside Academy, 303 Dryer Avenue, Daphne, AL 36532

Bayside Academy is offering a wide variety of educational and additional fun camps including Gulf Coast Young Engineers Robotic LEGO Camp, LEGO WEDO 2.0 Robotics & Programming Camp, Space Camp, Chess Camp, Dinosaur Camp, Math Prep Camp, Drivers Education, and Fishing Rod Building Camp. For a complete list and description of camps visit baysideacademy.org/summer-camps.

(251) 338-6473 www.beyondbayside.campbrainregistration.com/

Exploreum Science Center

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65 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602

Experience the new and improved Exploreum Academy in Mobile! Academy programs at the Exploreum Science Center are a great way to keep budding young minds engaged all summer long. Each academy will include activities from various STEM topics, as well as access to our galleries and Digital Dome theater.

(251) 208-6892 www.exploreum.com/education/ exploreum-academy/

Huntington Learning Center

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Jubilee Square Shopping Center, 6880 US Highway 90 (Suite 13), Daphne, AL 36526

Daphne’s premier tutoring service, our academic summer camp offerings include Reading Adventure and customized 1-on-1 reading, phonics, writing, and math programs for K-12th grade students. Call to learn more!

(251) 621-1055 www.huntingtonhelps.com/center/ daphne

My Dog and Me Camp

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Grand Hotel Fish Camp, 12744 River Creek Drive, Fairhope, AL 36532

June: 5-9, 12-16, 18-23. July: 10-14, 17-21, 23-28. Monday – Friday from 9am - 3pm. Ages 9 - 15 years. A day camp for the camper and their dog. Campers learn about dog behavior, training, and care. Campers and their dogs will have the opportunity to kayak and explore Fish River. Other activities include archery, basics of fly fishing, and more. If you do not have a dog we will let you train with one of ours.

(251) 928-3465 www.grandhotelfishcamp.com

Nature Connect Outdoor Summer Day Camps

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Various locations, Fairhope, AL 36532

Weekly summer sessions from May 30 - August 4, 2023. Ages 3 - 12 years. Join us for adventurous outdoor camps where we learn about plants and animals, explore local waterways, go fishing, swim, and make friends! Create art, play games, and much more!

(251) 513-7802 www.natureconnectalabama.org

STEAMCamp for Kids

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Daphne, Spanish Fort, Fairhope, Gulf Shores STEAMCamp gives kids an opportunity to experience and enjoy STEM learning, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and curiosity. Ages Pre-K - 8th grade. Camp themes include Oceanic Exploration, Journey Through Space, Details in Nature, Chemistry Camp, CSI: Crime Solvers, Engineering and Design, Animals & Art, Beginner

and Intermediate Robotics. Visit our website for locations and dates.

(251) 518-8903 www.steamcampforkids.com

STEM for Kids Mobile Bay

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5906 Sweetwater Circle, Fairhope, AL 36532

Making STEM Fun & Real for children PreK - 5th and 6th - 8th grades. Camp themes this year include Rise of the Energetic Bots - Eye Tech & Virtual Reality - Doctor Minecraft - Robots in Medicine - Computer Programming I - CSI: Cyber security Investigation - Space & Beyond (Minecraft Edition) - Computer Programming II - Minecraft: Knights & Gladiators. Full-day or half-day options.

(251) 210-8781 www.sfkmobay.com

USS ALABAMA Anchor Academy

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2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile, AL 36602 While at Anchor Academy, students will participate in art, STEM, and outdoor activities. Students will also explore the USS Alabama and USS Drum through fun and engaging lessons. Dates: June 5-9, June 12-16, July 11-14, and July 18-21. Open to students having just completed kindergartenfifth grade.

(251) 433-2703 www.ussalabama.com

Auburn University Youth Camps

Auburn, AL 36849

Auburn Youth Camps are an extension of University Outreach that offer summer programs designed to educate and inspire youth in a variety of academic, athletic, and extracurricular endeavors.

(334) 844-5100 www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/ auburnyouthprograms/index.htm

Aviation Challenge Camp

One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805

See more details under Overnight Camps. (800) 637-7223 www.spacecamp.com/aviation

Camp Cardinal

St. Michael Catholic High School, 11732 St Michael Way, Fairhope, AL 36532

Offering exciting opportunities for students aged 7 - 16 to explore athletics and academics this summer. Morning (9am - 12pm) and afternoon (12:30pm - 3:30pm) sessions are avaiable, Monday - Thursday. Each camp is $125. Registration on the school website or email John Scimeca.

(251) 459-0210 www.stmichaelchs.org

ESL Summer Writing Workshop

Fairhope, AL 36532

June 5-8, 12-15, 19-22, or 26-29 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm, Mon-Thurs, Grades 4th-6th (ages 9-12), $150/wk with a $30 non-refundable deposit, Contact Benita Stewart to register. (251) 472-6064 benitastewart@gmail.com

FEEF Summer Enrichment Camps

Pelican’s Nest Science Lab and FEEF’s NEW outdoor campus, 108 S. Summit Street, Fairhope, AL 36532

STEAM Summer Enrichment Camps. Beginning May 30 throughJuly 31, 2023. Grades

1st-12th. 2023 camps will include Acting Camp, Art Camp, Invention Camp, STEAM Sensation Camp, Reading with Art Camp, Problem Solving, Environmental Sustainability Camp and “By the Bay” Field Trips. Also partnering with the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, 4 – H, and Mobile Bay Keepers to create camps to celebrate our Outdoor Classroom and Gardens.

(251) 990-3333 www.feefonline.org

Flight Works Alabama

2000 Aerospace Drive, Mobile, AL 36615

Skills-based camps will weave science, technology, engineering, and math (STEAM) into various activities uniting education and FUN! (251) 512-2320 www.flightworksalabama.com

Gulf Coast Young Engineers

Daphne, Fairhope, and Mobile

Lego Robotics Camps for grades rising 3rd6th and grades 6th - 9th. The Best of The Best Camp - (grades 3 - 6) build our most popular robotics models while learning about the mechanical and scientific principles of the transmissions and other facts. Advanced Engineering Robotics Design - (grades 6 - 9). Campers will build advanced models and design their own robots. Locations include Bayside Academy, The Pelican’s Nest and St. Paul’s - Open to all students.

(251) 454-0570 www.gulfcoast.e2youngengineers.com

Industrial Design Workshop

301 Conti Street, Mobile, AL 36602

Auburn University’s Mobile Industrial Design Workshop offers an engaging program for rising 9th - 12th grade students interested in a professional career in Industrial Design. June 4 - June 9.

www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/auburnyouth programs/mobiledesign.htm

National Flight Academy

1 Fetterman Way, Pensacola, FL 32508

An 6 day overnight camp for rising 7-12th graders that inspires interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

(251) 552-3632 www.nationalflightacademy.com

Pre-Cotillion Program - Manners/ Etiquette Classes

Belforest Pointe, 26503 Highway 181, Daphne, AL 36526

June 20-21. The Pre-Cotillion program is for boys and girls entering 1st through 4th grades.

(251) 928-4962 www.nljc.com/chapter/easternshore

Shining Star Youth Camp

Various locations, AL BCSO Shining Star Youth Camps - ages 8-12. Registration coming soon. Visit BCSO Facebook page for information.

(251) 972-6890 www.sheriff.baldwincountyal.gov

Wildcat Contraption Camp

Bishop State Community College, 351 N Broad Street, Mobile, AL 36603

The Wildcat Contraption Camp exposes students ages 12-15 to career technical and manufacturing training careers as well as entrepreneurship. June 19 - 30, 2023. 8am - 12:30pm. $85 camp fee. (251) 405-7017 www.bishop.edu

Horseback Riding

Riverview Camp for Girls

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757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 2023 Camps run from June 4-July 28. An all girls overnight camp with short and long-term sessions for girls ages 6-16. Horseback riding, swimming, nature trails, arts and crafts, and much more! Also offering weekend retreats for mother-daughter adventures. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

(800) 882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com

Blue Horse Farm, LLC Summer Camp

41333 CR-39, Bay Minette, AL 36507 June 12-16, 8:00am-1:00pm. Ages 8 and up. Let BHF, enrich and engage your children in the joys of horseback riding and horsemanship knowledge. $250 per child.

www.bluehorsefarm.net

Fox Run Riding Academy, Level 1

13370 County Road 3, Fairhope, AL 36532

This course is designed for children interested in learning about horse care, horse equipment, the science of horse care and enjoying the outdoors on a working horse farm. Session 1: May 29June 2. Session 2: June 5 - June 9. Ages 7-14. (251) 209-1394 www.facebook.com/FoxRun\

Equestrian

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp for Girls

606 Valley View Ranch Rd, Cloudland, GA 30731

One or two-week sessions June 4 – July 29, 2023. Overnight camps for girls, ages 8-17 years. English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails. Beginner and Advanced riders. CHA instructors. (706) 862-2231 www.valleyviewranch.com

Music / Theatre

Baldwin County Youth Orchestra

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809 Nichols Avenue, Fairhope, AL 36532 Band Camp June 5-9 8:30am-12:00pm Strings Camp June 26 - 30 8:30am-12:00pm Beginning Strings Camp, no experience necessary, instruments provided July 24 - 28 8:30am-12:00pm (251) 279-0848 www.bcyorchestra.com

Bayside Summer Music and Theatre Camps

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Bayside Academy, 303 Dryer Avenue, Daphne, AL 36532

Bayside Academy is offering a wide variety of drama camps including Spotlight Youth Drama Camp, Improv Imagination Explosion, Theatre Intensive, and Puppetry. For a complete list and description of camps, you can view the Bayside catalog at www.baysideacademy.org/summer-camps (251) 338-6473 www.beyondbayside.campbrainregistration.com/

Bay Area Performing Arts

8724 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526

Bay Area Performing Arts 2023 summer camp registration is open now. We offer a variety of camps at different times and for different ages and tastes. 9 different camps from June 5 - July 21, registration is available online.

(251) 455-0355 Find is on Facebook and Instagram

Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre

Nicholson Center, 1410 Captain O’Neal Drive, Daphne, AL 36526

Eastern Shore Rep camps are the best way to spend the summer. Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre is thrilled to offer 5 musical theatre experiences: 4 performance camps and a dance workshop this summer. Schedules and registration forms are available online.

(251) 747-5354 www.easternshorerep.org

Eastern Shore Summer Strings

Locations: Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship - 1150 Fairhope Ave. Fairhope & St. Lawrence Catholic Church - 370 S Section St. Fairhope, AL 36532

Keep playing your instrument during summer and learn new skills. Make new friends, discover the secrets of your instrument, learn new music, and just have fun playing in a string ensemble! Second and third week in June and July (Mondays & Wednesdays).

(251) 432-2010 mobilesymphony.org/summer-strings

Performing Arts Camp 2023

Holy Trinity Lutheran, 8271

Whispering Pines Rd, Daphne, AL

Join us for 4 weeks of musical theatre and fun!

June 5-June 30, Monday-Friday 8:00am-3:00pm (extended hours available) for ages 8-15.

(251) 423-1201 www.musicalbeginningsbaldwin.com

Riff Music Studio

8720 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526

Lessons in Guitar, Bass, Piano, Drums, Ukulele, Mandolin, and other instruments. We also offer audio recording services.

(251) 210-2769 riffmusicstudio.com

South Baldwin Summer Music Camp

Foley First Presbyterian Church

195 E Berry Avenue, Foley, AL

June 26-30 from 2-5PM for students who love singing, acting, and have completed 1st-6th grades. Musical will be presented Friday at 5:30PM. Price $100 and includes materials, t-shirt, and snacks.

(251) 215-9805 Find us on FacebookThe Studio of Donna Toler

The Studio

25350 Friendship Rd, Daphne, AL 36526

Baldwin County’s Studio for Performing Arts Education. Award-winning private lessons in Acting, Dance, Guitar, Percussion, Piano, Stage Makeup, and Voice. Visit our website for Summer offerings!

(251) 616-0828 www.thestudioal.com

Overnight Camps

Alabama School of Math and Science STEM Leadership Academy

Summer Camp

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1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604

Course Sampling: 3D printing, ACT

Prep, Cybersecurity, Creative Chemistry, Robotics, Rocketry, Mini Medical School, Python Basics, and much more! Dates: June 5-9, and June 12-16, 2023 for rising 7th-9th graders. Cost: $455. All campers reside overnight for the week and meals and lodging are included in the cost. Camp Registration. Registration Deadline: May 15, 2023.

(251) 441-2100 www.asms.net

Dauphin Island Sea LabSummer Overnight Camps

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101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528

Barrier Island Explorer: Rising 5th-6th grades

June 4-7, July 23-26

Marine DeTECHtives: Rising 7th-8th grades

June 11-14

Gulf Island Journey: Rising 7th-9th grades

June 4-9, June 25-30, July 9-14, or July 16-21

Coastal Fisheries Camp: Rising 9th-12th grades May 28-June 2

Bay Voyager: Rising 9th-12th grades June 11-16 or July 23-28. Registration/camp specifics are available online.

(251) 861-2141 (Ext. 7515) www.disl.edu

Dauphin Island Sea Lab

Marine Science Course

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101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528

Marine Science High School Course: June 18July 14. An immersive 4-week academic class that introduces high school students to a better understanding of the various fields in marine sci -

Riverview Camp for Girls

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757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984

2023 Camps run from June 4-July 28. An all girls overnight camp with short and long-term sessions for girls ages 6-16. Horseback riding, swimming, nature trails, arts and crafts, and much more! Also offering weekend retreats for mother-daughter adventures. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. (800) 882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com

Aviation Challenge Camp

One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805

Camp sessions for ages 9 - 18 years. Visit our website for session options, dates and registration. (800) 637-7223 www.spacecamp.com/aviation

Baldwin County, Alabama 4-H

Alabama 4-H Center, 892 Four H Road, Columbiana, AL 35051

June 21-23, 2023 -Ages 9-14. Camp includes 3 days/2 nights lodging, 6 meals, 3 snacks, a camp t-shirt and lots of summer fun! Charter bus transportation from Bay Minette to and from the 4-H Center provided.

ence. Registration/camp specifics are available online.

(251) 861-2141 (Ext. 7515) www.disl.edu

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama

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3483 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, Al 36608

During June and July, we offer opportunities for Residential or Sail Away camp for every girl, whether they are a Girl Scout or not. (800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

(251) 937-7176 www.facebook.com/baldwincountyal4h/

Camp ASCCA

5278 Camp Ascca Dr, Jacksons Gap, AL 36861

Camp ASCCA offers campers a wide variety of traditional recreational and educational activities with a unique design for accessibility. Summer sessions begin June 18, 2023.

(256) 825-9226 www.campascca.org

Camp Beckwith

10400 Beckwith Lane, Fairhope, AL 36532

Join us for the Best Week Ever at Beckwith, packed with sailing, swimming, arts & crafts,

zip-lining, and so much more! Visit our website for information about dates and rates.

(251) 928-7844 www.beckwithal.com

Camp Cosby

2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road, Alpine, AL 35014

YMCA Camp Cosby is a week long sleepaway camp experience for boys and girls ages 6 to 16 with a first rate staff, activity variety, beautiful landscape and amazing views.

(251) 268-2007 www.campcosby.org

Camp Mac for Boys and Girls

Located in the Talladega National Forest - Cheaha Mountain, 2671 Cheaha Road, Munford, AL 36268 Summer camp nestled in the Talladega National Forest where kids learn stuff, do things and have fun!

(256) 362-7449 www.campmac.com

Camp Marannook

10425 Veterans Memorial Pkwy, La Fayette, AL 36862

We have a whole summer packed full of awesome activities for you to enjoy. Camps run June 11-July 23, 20232. Several sessions to choose from. (334) 864-7504 marannook.org

Camp Marymount

1318 Fairview Boulevard, Fairview, TN 37062

Camp Marymount offers a two-week and threeweek session for girls and a one-week and twoweek session for boys. Rising first graders thru rising 11th graders are eligible to be campers. (615) 799-0410 www.campmarymount.com

Camp Seale Harris

various locations, Camp Seale Harris is for kids & teens with diabetes and their family members. Camps & programs are available in several cities (205) 402-0415 www.campsealeharris.org

Camp Smile

Mobile, AL 36607

A residential camp for individuals with disabilities 5-50 years old. Space is very limited. (251) 479-4900 www.campsmilemobile.org

Camp Stanislaus

304 South Beach Blvd, Bay St. Louis, MS 39520

“a lifetime of memories and friendships”. A day and resident camp for boys and girls ages 8-15. Camp runs weekly from June 11-July 8, Father and Son: June 2-3, Water Sports: July 10-14, Marine Biology: June 5 - 9

(228) 467-9057 www.campstanislaus.com

Camp Victory

363 Victory Circle, Samson, AL 36477

June 5-9 (Ages 8-11), June 12-16 (Ages 9-12), June 19-23 (Ages 8-11), June 26-30 (Ages 14-18), July 3-7 (Ages 11-14), July 10-14 (Ages 8-11), July 17-21(Ages 9-12), July 24-28 (Ages 10-13) (251) 898-7948 www.campvictoryal.org

Camp Walkabout

171 Baylor School Road, Chattanooga, TN 37405 Discover everything you never knew you could do. From hiking and paddling to caving and climbing, The Walkabout Experience brings a new adventure every day. Ages 8-16.

(423) 757-2515 www.baylorschool.org/camps-clubsclinics/camp-walkabout

Camp Whispering Pines

7740 Union Street, Citronelle, AL 36522

Veritas Student Camp July 26-30 (6th-12th); Momentum Kids Camp-June 12-15, July 17-20 (1st - 5th grade).

(251) 866-7868 www.campwhisperingpines.com

Camp Widjiwagan

3088 Smith Springs Road, Antioch, TN 37013

Overnight camps run from May 29August 5, 2023. (615) 360-2267 www.campwidji.org

Camp Winnataska

260 Winnataska Dr, Pell City, AL 35218

2023 camps run from May 31 - July

29. Offering a variety of camp sessions for boys and girls ages 6-15 years old. Full week sessions and mini-camps.

(205) 640-6741 www.winnataska.org

Camp Woodmont

381 Moonlight Drive, Cloudland, GA 30731

ACA accredited camp-loads of activities: archery, climbing, horseback riding, canoeing, crafts, game and more! 1 & 2 week sessions for boys & girls 6 to 15. Season: May 28-July 28.

(423) 472-6070 www.campwoodmont.com

City Hope Youth Camp

Camp Blue Lake, 8500 Oakwood Lane, Andalusia, AL 36420

June 5-9, 2023. Camp for 7th-12th grade. Games, worship, small groups and more. Buses will leave from the Malbis campus and will return to Malbis campus.

(251) 626-0123 www.cityhope.cc/youth

Cub Scout Resident Camp

Camp Maubila, 2332 Camp Maubila Rd, Grove Hill, AL 36541

Cub Scout Resident Camp will be held June 2225, 2023 at Camp Maubila.

(251) 476-4600 www.bsamac.org

Lake Forest Ranch

5326 Lake Forest Road, Macon, MS 39341

Camps run from May 27-July 31, 2023. Visit our website for a complete schedule of camp schedules.

(662) 726-5052 www.lakeforestranch.com

Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys

277 County Road 632, Mentone, AL 35984

Residential camp for Boys since 1928. Several session options available. Dates, times and additional camp information available online.

(504) 861-1534 www.lookoutmountaincamp.com

Rapahope

Mobile, AL 36604

Rapahope has been bringing joy to children diagnosed with cancer and their families since 1985. We offer free, year-round programming, including summer camp, as well as weekend and day-long opportunities for families and siblings.

(251) 476-9880 www.rapahope.org

Twin Lakes Camp

155 Milner Road , Florence, MS 39073

Sessions: June 5-10, June 12-17, June 26-July 1, July 3-8, July 10-15, July 17-22, 2023. Twin Lakes is focused on safety and fun, while being intentionally grounded in Biblical teaching.

(601) 845-6858 www.twinlakescamp.org

YMCA Camp Chandler

1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092

Since 1928 YMCA Camp Chandler has provided youth with the opportunity to build meaningful relationships, develop new skills, and create memories that last a lifetime. Ages:5-15 years old.

(251) 229-0035 www.ymcamontgomery.org/camp

Sports Camps

Alabama Basketball Institute Basketball Camps

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120 W Berry Avenue, Foley, AL 36535

Summer Basketball program for boys and girls, rising 5th, 6th, and 7th grades. ABI 567 Summer Camps are designed to systematically help players improve skills, techniques and confidence. Our summer program is based on nationally and internationally accepted guidelines for youth development. ABI Rising 567 offers proressive basketball training potentially giving campers a competitive advantage throughout their middle and high school playing career. Registration online.

(251) 751-8573 www.ABIBasketball.com

Bayside Summer Sports Camps

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Bayside Academy, 303 Dryer Avenue, Daphne, AL 36532

Bayside Academy is offering a wide variety of sports camps including Boys Soccer, Girls Soccer, Girls Basketball, Boys Basketball, Football, Baseball, Volleyball, Track and Field, Wrestling, and Cheer. For a complete list and description of camps you can view the Bayside catalog at www. baysideacademy.org/summer-camps.

(251) 338-6473 www.beyondbayside.campbrain registration.com/

ACE Volleyball Camp

Foley Events Center, 1001 E Pride Blvd, Foley, AL 36535

Positional Camp-Age: 9th-12th grades (as of 2023-2024 school year). July 9th, Schedule: 1pm3:30pm/4:30pm-6:30pm;Team Camp-High School Team-JV or Varsity-July 10th-12th www.acevolleyballcamps.com

Auburn Swim Camp

664 Biggio Drive, Auburn, AL 36849

Camp focuses on technical instruction, skill development, training and a fun learning environment. www.auburnswimcamps.com

Camp Cardinal

St. Michael Catholic High School, 11732 St Michael Way, Fairhope, AL 36532

Offering exciting opportunities for students aged 7 - 16 to explore athletics and academics this summer. Morning (9am - 12pm) and afternoon (12:30pm - 3:30pm) sessions are avaiable, Monday - Thursday. Each camp is $125. Registration on the school website or email John Scimeca. (251) 459-0210 www.stmichaelchs.org

Junior Golf Clinics By:

PGA/LPGA Pro Kristi Jenkins

Craft Farms Golf Club, 3840 Cotton Creek Circle, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Summer Golf Program information coming!

(251) 504-4694 www.CraftFarms.com

Lake Forest Tennis and Swim

Lake Forest Racquet Club

197 Country Club Drive, Daphne, AL 36526

June 12 - 15, June 19 - 22, July 10 - 13, July 17-

20. Ages 4 1/2 and up. 9:30am - 2:00pm Monday - Thursday. Lunch provided. Cost $190 per week. Contact Michael Albrecht, USPTA, by email or phone for more information.

(251) 648-3952 www.uberjuniortennis.com

Summer Tennis Camp

Mike Ford Tennis Center, 600 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope, AL 36526

June 20-23, Tuesday-Friday 8am-12pm. Ages 8-18. For reservations please come by the tennis center and/or email tenniscenter@ Fairhopeal.gov.

(251) 990-9526 www.cofairhope.com/services/ parks-and-recreation/stimpson-tennis-facility

TimberCreek Golf Course

9650 TimberCreek Boulevard, Daphne, AL 36526 Junior Golf Clinics are offered, call the golf shop for clinic schedules.

(251) 621-9900 golftimbercreek.com

Swimming and Water Fun

Fairhope Yacht Club Sailing Camp

101 Volanta Avenue, Fairhope, AL 36532

Session 1: June 5–16, Session 2: June 19–June 30, Session 3: July 10–21, Session 4: July 24–August 4, Camp Times: A -8am-12pm, B-1:pm-5pm

Monday-Friday. Bay Buddy Camp (5-7 year old) is 2nd week of each session 8am-12pm. Cost-Sail camp. members-$350; non-members-$400, Bay Buddy camp-member $170; non-members $200. Registration opens: March 28-members, April 4-non-members.

(228) 363-0073 www.facebook.com/fycjuniors

Gulf Shores Swim Team and Aquatic Program

310 West 19th Avenue, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

We pride ourselves in our comprehensive programming that allows us to provide everyone an opportunity to improve swimming skills and achieve success at his or her level of ability, from novice to national competitor.

(251) 968-9819 www.facebook.com/GulfShores SwimTeam

Haley’s Little Fish

25421A State Highway 181 unit #105, Daphne, AL 36526

We offer swim lessons year-round in our heated pool. Survival lessons: 6 months and older, Advanced lessons: 3 yrs and older, for more info go to our website. www.haleyslittlefish.com

Summer Sail Camps

Wind & Water Learning Center, 26233 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561

Summer Sail Camps-run from June 5-July 28, Resident Rate: $175/week, Non-Resident Rate: $200/week

(251) 424-5909 www.orangebeachal.gov/391/ Sailing-Paddling-Programs

When my youngest child entered first grade, questions began.

“Are you going back to work now that your kids are in school all day?” “What will you do for six hours when your kids are in school?” You get the idea.

After correcting the misinformation—it is not really six hours when you factor in the varying bus schedules—I politely let them know that I wasn’t concerned about how I would occupy my time.

I was busy volunteering at the school and doing other household tasks, but I wanted to earn some extra money to help offset the high cost of college tuition. More importantly, I wanted flexibility.

So I began freelance writing for different publications. Over time, my income has increased, and I’m hoping to save enough to pay for at least one of my kids’ college educations.

Customer service representative: My friend used to provide customer service from her house through Liveops. She was able to create her own flexible hours by signing up for time blocks. She started taking calls for infomercials, then auto claims for Allstate and orders for Pizza Hut. The only cost to her was a dedicated phone line, which was $22 per month.

Pay range: $10–20 per hour

Delivery person: A recent article in Money Magazine described the job of being an Amazon delivery person through Amazon Flex. Drivers must use their own car and an app to select a block of time to deliver packages. Rates vary by state and time of year; during Christmas you can receive higher rates.

Pay range: $18–25 per hour

Fitness instructor: A few of my friends are fitness instructors, such as spin, body pump, or TRX teachers. These require taking certification tests that can cost around $300. Then you need to recertify every two years, which costs roughly $100. My friends enjoy the flexibility of the job and the fact that they get paid to work out.

Pay range: $10-$30 per hour, depending on the gym and class taught. Plus, most gyms offer free membership to their instructors.

Babysitter or nanny: Some moms I know tend other kids while watching their own. If you are unable to find a job through friends and family, try looking on websites such as Sittercity, Care.com, or UrbanSitter. Pay range: $11–18 per hour

Etsy shop owner: Etsy is a website where you can set up your own store. Most people sell crafts, jewelry, clothing, home décor, or vintage items. I bought a graphic design for my website on Etsy, though, so you are not limited to those categories. Etsy charges a $.20 listing fee, a 5% transaction fee, and 3% + $.25 payment fee.

Pay range: The range varies, but one website claims that a shop owner earns $70k per month!

Online transcriptionist: There are several companies that will hire you to work from home transcribing audio speech to written documents. The audio could be from a doctor, lawyer, court hearing, or freelance writer. Some companies don’t require any experience. There are transcription courses available for a fee. Some transcription companies are Rev, Scribie, and CrowdSurf. Pay range: The Rev website states the average earning is $245 per month.

Paid focus group participant: Market research companies pay focus groups for their reactions to or opinions of their products. Usually, group members participate for one to two hours. To participate in focus groups, you can sign up with companies such as WatchLab, User Interviews or FocusGroup. Pay range: $100–400 per group, and sometimes a free meal.

Here are ways you can earn extra cash while remaining a stay-at-home mom like me:

Pet sitter: A friend of mine started a petsitting business to board dogs in her house five years ago. She used the website Rover to set up her rate and availability. In addition to boarding pets, you can also walk dogs or watch pets and the owner’s house. The Rover website is not limited to dogs. Rover takes 20% of whatever fees you earn.

Pay range: Set your own rates. My friend earns $40 per night per dog and sometimes has three dogs per week, or $840 per week minus the Rover fee.

Rent out your house for a movie set: You can list your house for free on the Set

Scouter website to rent out for a movie or TV show. Even though I live in the Northeast (not remotely close to Hollywood), over ten different movies have been filmed in towns near me recently. I haven’t been lucky enough to have my house selected yet, but you never know when Hollywood might come knocking.

Pay range: $250–1,000 per day

Fashion stylist: Stitch Fix is a clothing subscription service. The stylists work from home and help other people create stylish outfits based on their budget, personality, and fashion tastes. You need to commit to

working 15–30 hours per week. You also must participate in an onsite training course. Pay range: $14–16 per hour

Teach English: There are a few different companies through which you can teach English online from your home. Most of the companies require you to have a college degree and be proficient in the English language. Some of the companies to investigate are VIPKID, Qkids, and Teachaway. Pay range: $15–25 per hour

Tasker: TaskRabbit matches you with people who need a task done around their houses such as cleaning, moving, furniture assembly, or home improvement. After you complete the job, you receive payment, minus a 15% TaskRabbit fee.

Pay range: You set the rate; certain skills earn more money.

Test Apps or Websites: Userlytics is a website that will match you with an app or website that is in the developmental phase and wants user feedback before it is launched. You will offer your thoughts about the app or website by verbally answering questions. Most projects take 15-20 minutes to complete.

Pay range: Website states the range is anywhere between $5-$90 per tested project.

Tutor: You might think you need a teaching degree to be a tutor, but according to Tutors.com, anyone with a high school diploma or GED can be a tutor; you need only complete a tutor training program. Once you are certified, you can set up a free profile at Tutors.com to find jobs.

Pay range: $25–80 per hour

Umpire or referee: There are many different youth sports that need someone to officiate, such as soccer, softball and baseball, lacrosse, field hockey, and more. Most referees need to attend certification training and complete a background check. Contact your local sports league to find out the requirements. Pay range: $25–50 per hour or per game.

You probably won’t get rich doing any of these jobs, but the extra income might help pay for all the added expenses of having children like camp, sports, or college. Of course, you never know—with that side business of yours, you could end up being the next Martha Stewart one day. A mom can dream, right?

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and the mother of twins and a daughter. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05.

ESP

FamilyCalendar

Saturday April 1

8th Annual Tour de LADR

7:30 AM Beckwith Camp & Conference Center, 10400 Beckwith Ln Fairhope, AL, 36532 18th Annual Tour de LADR Bike Ride to benefit rapahope. https://tourdeladr.com/

Easter Egg Dash

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Al Trione Sports Complex, 8600 Whispering Pines Rd Daphne, AL, 36526 Join us for inflatables, carousel, food, and music.

Easter Egg Hunts on the Great Lawn 9:00 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Bellingrath will host the annual Easter Egg Hunt on the Great Lawn. 0-3 years & Special Needs: 9–10:30AM, Ages 4-6: 10–10:15AM, Ages 7+: 10:15–10:30AM, Breakfast Served: 9AM–1PM, Easter Bunny Roaming for photos, arts & crafts, small games (corn hole, giant connect four, etc.) https://bellingrath.org/

Forward City Con

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Foley Civic Center, 407 E Laurel Ave Foley, AL, 36535 Forward City Con is a multigenre convention that features Local Vendors and Artists, a Cosplay Contest, Games, Prizes, Panel Discussions, Anime Viewing, and More! https://www.forwardcitycon.com/

Reenactment of the Battle of Fort Blakeley

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Historic Blakeley State Park, 34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Reenactment of the Battle of Fort Blakeley www.blakeleypark.com/

Easter at Seward Farms

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Seward Farms, 10836 Tanner Williams Rd Lucedale, MS, 39452 Seward farms offers a safe, fun unique egg hunting experience for children ages 1 to 10 years old. The farm will be open from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm or your enjoyment. The Easter Bunny will be available for visits from 10:00 am until 12:30 pm at the farm! www.sewardfarms.com/Seward-farm-Easter.htm

Easter Bunny Hops into Fairhope

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Fairhope Welcome Center, 20 N Section St Fairhope, AL, 36532 Easter Bunny Hops into Fairhope on Saturday, April 1.

Graham Creek Nature Easter Egg Hunt

10:00 AM Graham Creek Natural Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 Graham Creek Nature Preserve invites you to their annual Easter Egg Hunt on April 1, 2023, at 10:00 AM. 251-923-4267 http://grahamcreekpreserve.org

Local Artisans Spring Market

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Eastern Shore Centre, 30500 AL-181 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Local artisan vendors will be set up in the Courtyard at the heart of Eastern Shore Centre between Half Shell Oyster House and California Dreaming. There will be pottery, home decorations, handmade jewelry, clothing, candles, herbs and seasonings, wreaths, caricature art, face painting, and so much more!

Graham Creek Nature Preserve Bunny Hunt

Graham Creek Natural Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 Hop around Graham Creek & Wolf Creek Parks searching for the hidden bunnies. Participants will need to find 10 out of 15 bunnies

to qualify. Score cards must be returned to Graham Creek Interpretive Center before 4 p.m. on April 3. All entries will be added to a drawing and winners will be selected at random 251-923-4267 http://grahamcreekpreserve.org

Easter Egg Hunt

(FREE admission + parking; Some activities range $5-10)

11:30 AM The Wharf Marina Lawn, Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Easter Egg Hunt presented by The Island Church. Hippity, Hoppity, Easter is HERE! In grand style, Marina Lawn will be speckled with more than 5,000 colorful eggs for youngsters to claim including several golden eggs! A wide variety of free kids’ activities will be offered onsite, including bouncy houses, a balloon artist, giant coloring sheets, DJ Matt playing dancin g tunes, a rock wall, a glitter hair artist and more.

Sunday April 2

Graham Creek Nature Preserve Bunny Hunt Graham Creek Natural Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 Hop around Graham Creek & Wolf Creek Parks searching for the hidden bunnies. Participants will need to find 10 out of 15 bunnies to qualify. Score cards must be returned to Graham Creek Interpretive Center before 4 p.m. on April 3. All entries will be added to a drawing and winners will be selected at random.

251-923-4267 http://grahamcreekpreserve.org

Try Theatre Workshop (Free)

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 1410 Captain O’Neal Drive Fairhope, AL, 36532 Sing with Belle! Dance with Lumiere! All 2nd-8th graders are invited to our FREE workshop on April 2nd from 2pm-4pm. Celebrate Theatre with the cast of Beauty and the Beast! http://www.easternshorerep.org/

Tuesday April 4

Easter Egg Bath Bombs

5:00 PM Orange Beach Public Library, 26267 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Create colorful and fizzy bath bombs in the shape of Easter eggs to add some EGG-citing fun to your bathtime routine. Gift them to friends and family or keep for yourself. For ages 10-18.

https://www.orangebeachlibrary.org/

Wednesday April 5

Savvy Mom Sale

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Kids Resale Event! Visit our website for information on becoming a consignor, a volunteer or to see a schedule of sale dates. www.savvymomsale.com

Thursday April 6

Savvy Mom Sale

10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Kids Resale Event! Visit our website for information on becoming a consignor, a volunteer or to see a schedule of sale dates. www.savvymomsale.com

Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour

6:00 PM Mobile Civic Center Theater, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL, 36602 www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Music at Meyer Park

6:00 PM Meyer Park, 400 E 22nd Ave Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Grab your friends, family members, and a blanket or lawn chair and join us at Meyer Park for our Music at Meyer Park concerts. These concerts are free and open to the public.

www.gulfshoresal.gov/1428/Music-at-Meyer-Park

Friday April 7

Savvy Mom Sale

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Kids Resale Event! Visit our website for information on becoming a consignor, a volunteer or to see a schedule of sale dates. www.savvymomsale.com

Robertsdale’s Easter Festivities (Free)

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Garrett Park, 18080 Pennsylvania St Robertsdale, AL, 36567 Live Music, Crafts, Egg hunt, Games, Ice cream & Food. Also pictures with the Easter bunny. robertsdale.org

Live at Five Concert

5:00 PM Halstead Amphitheater, 450 Fairhope Ave Fairhope, AL, 36532 Live at Five Concert http://www.liveatfivefairhope.com

Saturday April 8

Savvy Mom Sale

8:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Kids Resale Event! Visit our website for information on becoming a consignor, a volunteer or to see a schedule of sale dates. www.savvymomsale.com

Bunny Hop 5K + Fun Run

8:30 AM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Hop over + join in on the fun while benefiting a great cause. The Pleasure Island Junior Woman’s Club is hosting the 12th annual Bunny Hop 5K + Fun Run in memory of Ann Reese Grote. Proceeds will benefit the Ann Reese Grote Memorial Scholarship. https://alwharf.com/events/2023/04/08/32784

Strawberry Festival

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Loxley Municipal Park, Highway 59 South Loxley, AL, 36551

Join us for carnival rides, vendors, food, car show and more.

https://baldwincountystrawberryfestival.org

2nd Annual Spring Festival

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Shorty’s Safe Haven Equine Rescue & Rehab, 12866 US Highway 98 Foley, AL, 36535 Mark your calendars and join us for our 2nd Annual Spring Festival Saturday April 8,2023 10a-4pm. ALL proceeds benefit our program kids and rescue horses. Enjoy easter egg hunt, pictures with the easter bunny, local vendors, bounce house and more. 251-213-8526

Easter at Seward Farms

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Seward Farms, 10836 Tanner Williams Rd Lucedale, MS, 39452

Seward farms offers a safe, fun unique egg hunting experience for children ages 1 to 10 years old. The farm will be open from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm or your enjoyment. The Easter Bunny will be available for visits from 10:00 am until 12:30 pm at the farm!

www.sewardfarms.com/Seward-farm-Easter.htm

FamilyCalendar

Easter Egg Hunt

10:00 AM Street’s Exquisite Plants & Aquatic Gardens Inc., 17750 Greeno Road Fairhope, AL, 36532 Street’s is planning another fun event for your kids. Bring your family out for an Easter Egg hunt on Saturday, April 16th, starting at 10 am.

Flora-Bama Easter Egg Hunt

12:00 PM 17401 Perdido Key Dr. Perdido Key, AL, 32507 Happy Easter to everybunny! Kids’ crafts and face painting will begin at 12pm in the tent. The Easter Egg Hunt will begin at 1pm on the beach behind the Flora-Bama and the Easter Bunny will skydive onto the beach shortly after! Kids will have a chance to meet the Easter Bunny and have their picture taken inside the tent after he lands. https://www.florabama.com/easter-egg-hunt

Moonlight Egg Hunt at Pathway Church

7:00 PM Pathway Church, 14965 AL-59 #105 Foley, AL, 36535 Bring your kids for an Easter egg hunt. There will be colorful, candy-filled eggs and free giveaways. https://pathwaychurch.us/

Sunday April 9

Easter Sunrise Service

6:30 AM Fairhope Pier, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 9th at 6:30am.

Easter Sunrise Service

6:30 AM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us on the grounds of the park for our annual Easter Sunrise Service. Government Street Baptist Church will be hosting. The service is open to the public and

everyone is invited to attend. We recommend bringing a lawn chair as seating can be full.

tional breakfast with sausage, eggs, and bacon will be served, and children will have an opportunity to meet and take photos with the Easter Bunny.

www.gulfshoresal.gov/1429/Breakfast-with-the-Bunny

Strawberry Festival

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Loxley Municipal Park, Highway 59 South Loxley, AL, 36551 Join us for carnival rides, vendors, food, car show and more.

https://baldwincountystrawberryfestival.org

Easter Egg Dash at LuLu’s Gulf Shores

1:00 PM LuLu’s Gulf Shores, 200 E 25th Ave Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Hop on over to see the tropically clad Easter Bunny and go on a fun, festive, and free Easter Egg Dash. The faster paced Easter Egg Dash will be at 2 p.m. sharp. Egg-citing “golden eggs” with special prizes will be scattered around. Kids will be divided by age groups for safe and FAST fun for all, including photo op memories with the Easter Bunny from 1 to 3 p.m at LuLu’s Gulf Shores.

http://www.lulusfunfoodmusic.com/

Tuesday April 11

Game Night

Easter Sunrise Service

6:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Open to everyone in the community. No admission charge from 6–8AM. Guests may bring folding chairs/blankets (No chairs provided by BGH). Home to open at regular time. www.bellingrath.org

Breakfast with the Bunny ($5 each, children threeyears-old and younger are free)

8:00 AM Erie H. Meyer Civic Center, 1930 W 2nd St Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Beginning at 8 a.m., a tradi-

3:30 PM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Bingo Night!

251-620-2500

www.daphneal.com/178/Library

The Alabama School of the Arts’ Department of Theatre presents “Night of the Classical Masters”

7:00 PM First Baptist Church of Fairhope, 300 S Section St. Fairhope, AL, 36532 Come join the Alabama School of the Arts as they present an evening of classical works prepared by its University Singers, Chorale, and Orchestra. The evening will conclude with a special presentation of Saviour, A Modern Oratorio. asota.umobile.edu/event/tuck-everlasting-2/

FamilyCalendar

Thursday April 13

Music at Meyer Park

6:00 PM Meyer Park, 400 E 22nd Ave Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Grab your friends, family members, and a blanket or lawn chair and join us at Meyer Park for our Music at Meyer Park concerts. These concerts are free and open to the public. www.gulfshoresal.gov/1428/Music-at-Meyer-Park

Nightrain — The Guns n’ Roses Tribute Band

7:00 PM OWA Theater, 205 N OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 Head to OWA Theater Thursday, April

13th to rock the night away with Nightrain — a Guns N’ Roses Tribute Band.

https://ci.ovationtix.com/35683/production/1151976? promo=NighTrain

Friday April 14

Dixie Division Military Vehicle Show

12:00 PM USS Alabama Battleship, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 Come see vintage military jeeps, trucks, bikes and more! The Dixie Division Military Vehicle Show will take place in the recreational area on the grounds of USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park beginning Saturday, April 14, 2023, at noon and continuing through Sunday, April 15, 2023, at 4 p.m. There will be vendors selling military memorabilia and a swap meet for vintage military vehicle enthusiasts.

https://www.mobilecountyal.gov/community_events/ events/dixie-division-military-vehicle-show-2023-04-14

Ladies Night Out ($5)

5:30 PM - 8:30 PM, John F. Rhodes Civic Center, 301 D’Olive St Bay Minette, AL, 36507 Ladies Night Out features one-stop shopping from a variety of vendors and retailers. The event will be held 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 14 at the John F. Rhodes Civic Center. cityofbayminetteal.gov/bay-minette/community-calendar

The Purple Madness — A Prince Tribute

7:00 PM OWA Theater, 205 N OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 Head to OWA Theater on April 14 & 15 to see The Purple Madness — A Prince Tribute. https://ci.ovationtix.com/35683/production/1147768

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents A Bagful of Fables

7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 This collection of Aesop with an attitude! Join this lively troupe of young actors and even Aesop, who may be long gone from this earth but still the life of the party! 251-968-6721 www.sbct.biz

Billy Strings Concert

8:00 PM Mobile Civic Center Theater, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL, 36602 Michigan-born and now Nashville-based, Billy Strings is a GRAMMY Awardwinning singer, songwriter and musician, who arrived on the scene as “one of string music’s most dynamic young stars” (Rolling Stone). Billy Strings’ 2022 tour further celebrates the release of Strings’ widely acclaimed new album, Renewal, out now via Rounder Records. www.asmglobalmobile.com/

uniforms, demonstrate what life aboard ship was like during wartime. They share stories from our original crewmen, conduct weapons briefings, and demonstrate drills while aboard ship.

https://www.ussalabama.com/

2023 Spring Fling

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Baldwin County Coliseum, 19477 Fairground Rd Robertsdale, AL, 36567 The 2023 Spring Fling, held at the Baldwin County Coliseum in Robertsdale, Alabama, will host 100+ vendors from all over the south! Shop with crafters, bakers, boutiques, direct sales, and many unique vendors to help you find the perfect gift for someone special Dauphin Island Art Trail

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 1101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Hosting over 40 local artists from all over the Gulf Coast and beyond for a full day of arts and crafts on the Island.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dauphin-island-arttrail-registration-515576773007

Kites Over Mobile 2023

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Brookley By The Bay, 254 Old Bay Front Drive Mobile, AL, 36615 There will be fun activities like professional kite flying demonstrations, kite displays, kite hospital, live music, candy drop, and more. Have a picnic, bring your kites, chairs, and blankets.

https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events/kitesover-mobile-2023

Harvest Nights with Grits and Greens

2:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Weeks Bay Plantation, 12562 Mary Ann Beach Road Fairhope, AL, 36532 U-Pick your favorite past varieties AND explore our new ones, explore our renovations, innovations & rentals, food, vendors, activities, Grits & Greens on our stage and more.

https://weeksbayplantation.com/

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents A Bagful of Fables

2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 This collection of Aesop with an attitude! Join this lively troupe of young actors and even Aesop, who may be long gone from this earth but still the life of the party! 251-968-6721 www.sbct.biz

Family Dance Fundraiser

5:00 PM PZK Hall, 17933 Highway 104 Robertsdale, AL, 36567 Come have a fun family night-Two live bands, food, and a silent auction. This fundraiser will help us build a small arena to allow a shade place for students to get out of the weather.

https://whaleyranch.com/

Saturday April 15

Living HIstory Crew

8:00 AM 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 World War II comes to life every other month aboard the BB-60 with the Living History Crew. These historical reenactors, dressed in WWII period Navy

Mobile Pops Spring ConcertDauphin Island

6:00 PM Water Tower Plaza, Dauphin Island, AL, Mobile Pops Spring Concert

https://www.themobilepops.com/

The Purple Madness — A Prince Tribute

7:00 PM OWA Theater, 205 N OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 Head to OWA Theater on April 14 & 15 to see The Purple Madness — A Prince Tribute.

https://ci.ovationtix.com/35683/production/1147768

The Mobile Symphony Orchestra Presents Brahms Symphony 4

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Brahms’ fourth symphony is a stellar masterpiece. We also feature Weber’s Euryanthe

Overture and Caroline Shaw’s Music in Common Time featuring the University of South Alabama Concert Choir and Mobile Opera Chorus.

https://mobilesymphony.org/

Billy Strings Concert

8:00 PM Mobile Civic Center Theater, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL, 36602 Michigan-born and now Nashville-based, Billy Strings is a GRAMMY Awardwinning singer, songwriter and musician, who arrived on the scene as “one of string music’s most dynamic young stars” (Rolling Stone). Billy Strings’ 2022 tour further celebrates the release of Strings’ widely acclaimed new album, Renewal, out now via Rounder Records.

www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Dixie Division Military Vehicle Show

USS Alabama Battleship, 2703 Battleship Parkway

Mobile, AL, 36602 Come see vintage military jeeps, trucks, bikes and more! The Dixie Division Military Vehicle Show will take place in the recreational area on the grounds of USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park beginning Saturday, April 14, 2023, at noon and continuing through Sunday, April 15, 2023, at 4 p.m. There will be vendors selling military memorabilia and a swap meet for vintage military vehicle enthusiasts. https://www.mobilecountyal.gov/community_events/ events/dixie-division-military-vehicle-show-2023-04-14

Sunday

Bay Front Drive

Mobile, AL, 36615 There will be fun activities like professional kite flying demonstrations, kite displays, kite hospital, live music, candy drop, and more. Have a picnic, bring your kites, chairs, and blankets. www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events/kites-overmobile-2023

Flourish Fancy— Fundraiser for Flourish Community Center

2:00 PM Historic Malbis Nursery, 10145 US-90 Daphne, AL, 32526 Guests will enjoy a high tea party including: tea, mimosa bar, sweet & savory treats followed by a Flower Crown workshop. https://givebutter.com/flourishfancy

The Mobile Symphony Orchestra Presents Brahms Symphony 4

2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Brahms’ fourth symphony is a stellar masterpiece. We also feature Weber’s Euryanthe Overture and Caroline Shaw’s Music in Common Time featuring the University of South Alabama Concert Choir and Mobile Opera Chorus. https://mobilesymphony.org/

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents A Bagful of Fables

2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 This collection of Aesop with an attitude! Join this lively troupe of young actors and even Aesop, who may be long gone from this earth but still the life of the party! 251-968-6721 www.sbct.biz

Monday April 17

Mobile Pops Spring Concert and Art Show

7:00 PM Spanish Fort Community Center, Mobile, AL, 36609 Mobile Pops Spring Concert and art show. https://www.themobilepops.com/

FamilyCalendar

Thursday April 20

Fill the Plate Luncheon

11:30 AM Prodisee Pantry, 9315 Spanish Fort Blvd. Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Prodisee Pantry’s Fill The Plate campaign is designed fill the plate of our neighbors in need 251-626-1720 https://prodiseepantry.org/

Fortune Feimster

7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 You can catch stand-up comedian, writer, and actor, Fortune Feimster, on the radio, on screens both big and small, and touring her stand-up across the nation. https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Friday April 21

Heritage Park Marketplace-Music-Movie

4:30 PM Heritage Park Gazebo, 101 E. Violet Ave. Foley, AL, 36535 The popular Foley event kicks off at 4:30 p.m. with Heritage Park Marketplace, which will showcase a variety of arts and crafts as well as plants, vegetables, fruits, and gift items. The marketplace will operate from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with live entertainment beginning at 6 p.m., followed by a movie at dusk.

Live at Five Concert

5:00 PM Halstead Amphitheater, 450 Fairhope Ave Fairhope, AL, 36532 Live at Five Concert http://www.liveatfivefairhope.com

2023 Annual Waterway Village Zydeco & Crawfish Festival

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Waterway Village, East 24th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Friday will feature a ticketed concert by the iconic Rebirth Brass Band out of New Orleans, LA. Rebirth will take the stage from 7 to 9 p.m., with the opening act beginning at 6 p.m. Tickets are $29 each and can be purchased online at https://waterwayvillagepeople.ticketspice.com/rebirthbrass-band-friday-night-concert---zydeco--crawfishfestival. Crawfish will not be served at Friday’s concert, but food trucks will be on site www.gulfshoresal.gov/1430/Waterway-Village-ZydecoCrawfish-Festiva

“Under the Stars” presented by Baldwin County Child Advocacy Center

6:00 PM Oak Hollow Farm, 14210 Greeno Rd Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join us on Friday evening, April 21, 2023, at the beautiful Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope, Alabama as we celebrate National Child Abuse Prevention Month and 34 years of service to precious child abuse victims in Baldwin County. This will be a very special evening filled with live music, great food, dancing, drinks, and silent and live auctions. https://baldwincountycac.networkforgood.com/ events/52528-under-the-stars

Menopause the Musical

7:30 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 Menopause the Musical https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/saenger-theatre

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents

A Bagful of Fables

7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 This collection of Aesop with an attitude! Join this lively troupe of young actors and even Aesop, who may be long gone from this earth but still the life of the party!

251-968-6721 www.sbct.biz

Theatre 98 presents Into the Breeches!

7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Oberon Play House’s director and leading men are off at war with the Axis. Determined to press on, the director’s wife sets out to produce an allfemale version of Shakespeare’s Henriad, assembling an increasingly unexpected team united in desire, if not actual theatre experience. Together they deliver a delightful celebration of collaboration and persistence when the show must go on!

251-928-4366 https://www.theatre98.org/

Saturday April 22

Ballin’ on Bellrose

7:00 AM Belrose Park, Belrose Avenue Daphne, AL, 36526 Ballin’on Belrose is a walk/race is being held to benefit the Baller Dream Foundation. This event is a race up Belrose Avenue, culminating with a street party at the top of the hill with refreshments, music, a kids’ area and camaraderie. Thanks to the support of the City of Daphne, Belrose Avenue will be blocked off from 7:00 a.m. to Noon the day of the event to allow participants to complete the challenge safely. Registration opens at 7 a.m. with the race beginning at 8 a.m. Sign up for only $25 per racer www.ballinonbelrose.com

Annual Mullet Man Triathlon

7:30 AM Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar, 17401 Perdido Key Dr. Perdido Key, FL, 32507 Annual Mullet Man Triathlon https://www.florabama.com/mullet-triathlon

2023 Annual Waterway Village Zydeco & Crawfish Festival

8:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Waterway Village, East 24th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Saturday’s festivities will kick off at 8 a.m., with the Zydeco Crawfish Festival 5K benefitting the Waterway Village Merchants Association. The good times will roll all day long as art vendors open their tents at 9 a.m., crawfish pots begin boiling at 10 a.m., and the Zydeco sounds continue grooving until 6 p.m. https://www.gulfshoresal.gov/1430/Waterway-VillageZydeco-Crawfish-Festiva

Discover North Baldwin Outdoor Expo

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Baldwin County Bicentennial Park, 51233 AL-225 Pensacola, FL, 36579 The day’s activities will include vendors, speakers, demonstrations, food, music and more -- all pertaining to the great outdoors, whether fishing, hunting, boating, camping, gardening, farming, etc. If interested in setting up as a vendor or signing on as a sponsor, email kristina@ northbaldwinchamber.com.

(251) 580-1625

Dauphin Island Sea Lab Discovery Day

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 102 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Discovery Day is the Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s open house for the public. Once a year, the public is given a tour of our research facilities to learn about our coastal environment and the research our team is working on. https://www.disl.edu/events/discovery-day

Mobile Bay Anime Festival

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 U.S. Highway 98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Mobile Bay Anime Festival is a one day event being held to celebrate anime and manga, as well as general pop culture and animation, while bringing together a diverse list of guests, vendors, artists, and fan groups, in an affordable, family friendly environment.

https://mobilebayanimefest.com/

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents A Bagful of Fables

2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 This collection of Aesop with an attitude! Join this lively troupe of young actors and even Aesop, who may be long gone from this earth but still the life of the party! 251-968-6721 www.sbct.biz

Theatre 98 presents Into the Breeches!

7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Oberon Play House’s director and leading men are off at war with the Axis. Determined to press on, the director’s wife sets out to produce an allfemale version of Shakespeare’s Henriad, assembling an increasingly unexpected team united in desire, if not actual theatre experience. Together they deliver a delightful celebration of collaboration and persistence when the show must go on!

251-928-4366 https://www.theatre98.org/

Gladys Knight

8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602

https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/saenger-theatre

Thunder on the Bay

Ft. Gaines, 51 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Come celebrate the upcoming 159th Battle of Mobile Bay sponsored by the 6th Alabama Calvary & the Alabama Division of Reenactors. This two-day event is at historic Fort Gaines. Saturday will be the Battle of Mobile Bay re-enactment & surrender ceremony, and Sunday will feature a Tactical 251-861-6992 https://fort-gaines.com/

Sunday April 23

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents A Bagful of Fables

2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 This collection of Aesop with an attitude! Join this lively troupe of young actors and even Aesop, who may be long gone from this earth but still the life of the party! 251-968-6721 www.sbct.biz

Theatre 98 presents Into the Breeches!

2:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Oberon Play House’s director and leading men are off at war with the Axis. Determined to press on, the director’s wife sets out to produce an allfemale version of Shakespeare’s Henriad, assembling an increasingly unexpected team united in desire, if not actual theatre experience. Together they deliver a delightful celebration of collaboration and persistence when the show must go on!

251-928-4366 https://www.theatre98.org/

Spring Concert - Bound for the Promised Land

($15 tickets, students free)

3:00 PM Fairhope First Baptist Church, 300 S Section St Fairhope, AL, 36532 Eastern Shore Choral Society will perform Faure’s Requiem with orchestra and soloists. We will also perform spirituals and American Sacred Harp tunes to round out the concert: Bound for the Promised Land.

https://escs.org/

Thunder on the Bay

Ft. Gaines, 51 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Come celebrate the upcoming 159th Battle of Mobile Bay sponsored by the 6th Alabama Calvary & the Alabama Division of Reenactors. This two-day event is at historic Fort Gaines. Saturday will be the

FamilyCalendar

Battle of Mobile Bay re-enactment & surrender ceremony, and Sunday will feature a Tactical 251-861-6992 https://fort-gaines.com/

Monday April 24

Spring Concert - Bound for the Promised Land ($15 tickets, students free)

7:00 PM Spanish Fort United Methodist Church, 6690 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Eastern Shore Choral Society will perform Faure’s Requiem with orchestra and soloists. We will also perform spirituals and American Sacred Harp tunes to round out the concert: Bound for the Promised Land. https://escs.org/

Tuesday April 25

IMPACT Youth Theater Presents

Beauty and the Beast

10:00:00 AM and 6:30 PM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 U.S. Highway 98 Daphne, AL, 36526 IMPACT Youth Theater present the classic fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast. Enjoy as the stage comes to life, full of magic and hope. Watch as love conquers all in the endearing story that reminds each of us how appearances can be misleading. Two show times will be held on April 25, 2023. The morning show is at 10:00am and reservations are encouraged by emailing impacttheaterreservations@gmail.com. The evening show begins at 6:30 open seating and concessions available. impacttheaterreservations@gmail.com

Thursday April 27

Mobile River Cruise with John Sledge

9:00 AM Historic Blakeley State Park, 34745 AL-225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us as park friend John S. Sledge, author of the award-winning book, The Mobile River, narrates a three-hour cruise across the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and down the storied Mobile River leaving a wake of history—some previously untold—behind.

http://www.blakeleypark.com

12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Civic Cen-

This must-attend event offers the business community, from small business entrepreneurs to executives, an opportunity to network with local professionals, engage with exhibitors and discover resources for business growth. In order to remain inclusive to all businesses, the Eastern Shore Business Expo entry level exhibition prices are kept to a minimum. If you are interested in a booth for your business, booths are $300.

www.easternshorebusiness.com

Friday April 28

Bama Coast Cruisin’

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 This is a family friendly event so come out & see some of the most beautiful cars in the country at the most unique venue on Alabama’s Gulf Coast!

https://bamacoastcruisin.com/

Heritage Park Marketplace-Music-Movie

4:30 PM Heritage Park Gazebo, 101 E. Violet Ave. Foley, AL, 36535 The popular Foley event kicks off at 4:30 p.m. with Heritage Park Marketplace, which will showcase a variety of arts and crafts as well as plants, vegetables, fruits, and gift items. The marketplace will operate from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with

live entertainment beginning at 6 p.m., followed by a movie at dusk.

Florida Bee Gees — A Tribute Band

7:00 PM OWA Theater, 205 N OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 Put on your dancing shoes and head to OWA Theater on April 28 & 29 to catch the spectacular Florida Bee Gees

https://ci.ovationtix.com/35683/production/1147771

Exit Stage Left presents Matilda the Musical

7:30 PM Foley Civic Center, 407 E. Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 https://exitstageleft.org/

Theatre 98 presents Into the Breeches!

7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Oberon Play House’s director and leading men are off at war with the Axis. Determined to press on, the director’s wife sets out to produce an all-female version of Shakespeare’s Henriad, assembling an increasingly unexpected team united in desire, if not actual theatre experience. Together they deliver a delightful celebration of collaboration and persistence when the show must go on! 251-928-4366 https://www.theatre98.org/

Black Jacket Symphony presents

Tom Petty’s Full Moon Fever

8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Black Jacket Symphony returns to the Mobile Saenger Theatre on Friday, April 28, 2023, at 8 p.m., to perform Tom Petty’s classic “Full Moon Fever” in its entirety!

http://bit.ly/bjstom23

Saturday April 29

Bama Coast Cruisin’

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 This is a family friendly event so come out & see some of the most beautiful cars in the country at the most unique venue on Alabama’s Gulf Coast!

https://bamacoastcruisin.com/

Delta Woods and Water Expo

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Featuring a variety of informative presentations, exhibitions and interactive displays by experienced outdoorsmen, professionals, educators and enthusiasts, the Delta Woods & Waters Expo includes numerous fun and exciting hands-on demonstrations which allow attendees to learn and practice new skills with one-on-one instruction.

https://www.deltawoodsandwatersexpo.com/

Touch a Truck

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Rd N Mobile, AL, 36608 What child doesn’t dream of sitting in the driver’s seat of a bulldozer? Touch A Truck provides just that! Children will be allowed to climb aboard and ask questions about their favorite trucks in a safe environment. There will also be lunch, snacks, and treats available for purchase. Proceeds benefit Rapahope

www.rapahope.org/fundraising/touch-a-truck-2023

NAMI Baldwin County Mental Health Fair

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, HoneyBee Park, Robertsdale, AL The event will feature exhibitors such as Veteran’s Affairs, Wings Across Alabama, AltaPointe, The Lighthouse, Alabama Free Clinic, Alzheimer’s Association of AL, Crisis Intervention Teams and more. Other

activities include art for children, exercise for Women & Youth: The Bar Fitness, “Playhouse in the Park” by Shining Talent and more. 251-279-0573

13th Annual Bald Eagle Bash

4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Tonsmeire Weeks Bay Resource Center, 11525 US-98 Fairhope, AL, 36532 This signature annual fundraiser for SALT has earned a reputation for delivering great food, great music, and a great time, all on the edges of beautiful Weeks Bay. https://southalabamalandtrust.org/bald-eagle-bash/

Florida Bee Gees — A Tribute Band

7:00 PM OWA Theater, 205 N OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 Put on your dancing shoes and head to OWA Theater on April 28 & 29 to catch the spectacular Florida Bee Gees

https://ci.ovationtix.com/35683/production/1147771

Exit Stage Left presents Matilda the Musical 7:30 PM Foley Civic Center, 407 E. Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 E https://exitstageleft.org/

Theatre 98 presents Into the Breeches!

7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Oberon Play House’s director and leading men are off at war with the Axis. Determined to press on, the director’s wife sets out to produce an allfemale version of Shakespeare’s Henriad, assembling an increasingly unexpected team united in desire, if not actual theatre experience. Together they deliver a delightful celebration of collaboration and persistence when the show must go on!

251-928-4366 https://www.theatre98.org/

Sunday April 30

Theatre 98 presents Into the Breeches!

2:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Oberon Play House’s director and leading men are off at war with the Axis. Determined to press on, the director’s wife sets out to produce an allfemale version of Shakespeare’s Henriad, assembling an increasingly unexpected team united in desire, if not actual theatre experience. Together they deliver a delightful celebration of collaboration and persistence when the show must go on!

251-928-4366 https://www.theatre98.org/

Champions Of Magic

5:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Champions Of Magic show at Mobile Saenger Theatre.

https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Exit Stage Left presents Matilda the Musical

7:30 PM Foley Civic Center, 407 E. Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535

https://exitstageleft.org/

Tuesday May 2

Hope for Healing

6:30 PM Arthur R. Outlaw Mobile Convention Center, Mobile, AL, 36602 The evening includes dinner and inspirational testimonies from the founding to present-day partnerships who are furthering the impact in the lives of our patients.

https://victoryhealth.org/hope-for-healing

Thursday May 4

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, OWA , 101 S OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is approaching its 19th year of flying! We are excited you are interested in coming to this year’s event that will feature more than 50 balloons from across the country, enjoy food vendors, arts and craft vendors,

and retail vendors. Join us at OWA for this fun-filled weekend.

https://gulfcoastballoonfestival.com/

Cocktails with Critters

6:00 PM Bluegill Resturaunt, 3775 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36527 Cocktails with Critters, the major fundraiser for the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, will be Thursday, May 4, 2023, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Bluegill Restaurant on the Causeway. As always, this will be an exciting evening overlooking Mobile Bay with live music, delicious hors d’oeuvres along with tasty wine and beer.

https://sealabfoundation.org/events/cocktails_with_ the_critters

Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre presents

“Beauty and the Beast”

7:30 PM Henry George Park, Fairhope, AL, 36532

Celebrate 10 years of THEATRE ON THE BLUFF magic with us this May as we perform Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

251-301-2371 http://www.easternshorerep.org/

Friday May 5

balloons from across the country, enjoy food vendors, arts and craft vendors, and retail vendors. Join us at OWA for this fun-filled weekend. https://gulfcoastballoonfestival.com/

Live at Five Concert

5:00 PM Halstead Amphitheater, 450 Fairhope Ave Fairhope, AL, 36532 Live at Five Concert http://www.liveatfivefairhope.com

Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre presents “Beauty and the Beast”

7:30 PM Henry George Park, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Celebrate 10 years of THEATRE ON THE BLUFF magic with us this May as we perform Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

251-301-2371 http://www.easternshorerep.org/

C Spire Concert Series Presents: Whiskey Myers

7:30 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Whiskey Myers is coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on May 5 as part of the 2023 C Spire Concert Series https://alwharf.com/

Saturday May 6

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM, OWA , 101 S OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is approaching its 19th year of flying! We are excited you are interested in coming to this year’s event that will feature more than 50 balloons from across the country, enjoy food vendors, arts and craft vendors, and retail vendors. Join us at OWA for this fun-filled weekend. https://gulfcoastballoonfestival.com/

Crawfish Bash

6:00 PM Halliday Park, Bay Minette, AL, 36507 The North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Crawfish Cook-Off on May 6 at Halliday Park in Bay Minette. The event kicks off at 6 p.m. northbaldwinchamber.com

FamilyCalendar

Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre presents “Beauty and the Beast”

7:30 PM Henry George Park, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Celebrate 10 years of THEATRE ON THE BLUFF magic with us this May as we perform Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. 251-301-2371 http://www.easternshorerep.org/

Mobile Symphony Orchestra Lord of the Rings

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Mobile Symphony Orchestra will contrast Howard Shore’s brilliant score to Lord of the Rings with orchestral highlights from Richard Wagner’s Ring Cycle. Works include “The Ride of the Valkyrie” and Siegfried’s “Rhine Journey,” as well as music from “Lord of the Rings: Return of the King,” the “Two Towers” and “Fellowship of the Ring.” mobilesymphony.org/event/lords-of-the-ring

Hooked Up To Help Inshore Fishing Tournament

Ralph and Kacoo’s, 1595 Battleship Pkwy Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 The tournament has both adult and kids (14 and under) divisions. The tournament concludes with a weigh-in at Ralph & Kacoo’s on the Mobile Bay Causeway, along with an awards and prize presentation. Benefits United Cerebral Palsy. https://www.ucpmobile.org/hookeduptohelp

Sunday May 7

Mobile Symphony Orchestra Lord of the Rings

2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Mobile Symphony Orchestra will contrast Howard Shore’s brilliant score to Lord of the Rings with orchestral highlights from Richard Wagner’s Ring Cycle. Works include “The Ride of the Valkyrie” and Siegfried’s “Rhine Journey,” as well as music from “Lord of the Rings: Return of the King,” the “Two Towers” and “Fellowship of the Ring.” mobilesymphony.org/event/lords-of-the-ring

City of Spanish Fort presents Mobile Big Band Society Youth Jazz Band Concert

5:00 PM Spanish Fort Community Center, 7361 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Bring your tailgate chairs and picnic blankets to the pond behind Spanish Fort Community Center for a night of live music with The Mobile Big Band Society Youth Jazz Band. This is a free concert, and all ages are encouraged to attend http://www.cityofspanishfort.com/

Saturday May 12

Fairhope Rotary 2023 Steak Cookoff

7:00 PM Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope, AL, 36532

The 2023 Fairhope Rotary Steak Cook-off kicks off at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 12. Come enjoy delicious steak, wine, beer and live music. https://fairhopesteak.org/

Saturday May 13

Art in the Park

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Heritage Park, 104 N Mckenzie Foley, AL, 36535 Join us at “Art in the Park”, a competitive juried fine arts show for artists and craftsmen from across the southeast.

https://www.gulfshores.com/events-calendar/art-andculture/art-in-the-park/

C Spire Concert Series Presents: Hank Williams Jr with Special Guest Old Crow Medicince Show

7:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL, 36561 C Spire Concert Series

Presents: Hank Williams Jr with Special Guest Old Crow Medicince Show https://alwharf.com/

Sunday May 14

Art in the Park

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Heritage Park, 104 N Mckenzie Foley, AL, 36535 Join us at “Art in the Park”, a competitive juried fine arts show for artists and craftsmen from across the southeast. https://www.gulfshores.com/events-calendar/art-andculture/art-in-the-park/

Every Monday

Free Build - STEM Play (Free)

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 2 to 10 years old. Come put your creative imagination to the test! We will put out all of our legos, soft blocks, lincoln logs, picnic pieces, buckets of dinosaurs, and more. Join us in the Activity Room for Free Build every Monday and Friday from 9am - Noon.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

MakerSpace Mondays at Fairhope Library

6:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 9+. Join us every Monday in the MakerSpace for fun, hands-on crafts and activities. We will have a different craft, experiment, or group activity every week! All materials are provided for free.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Every Tuesday

Movers & Shakers

Toddler Storytime

(Free)

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 18 months to 2 years old. Join us for a special storytime just for toddlers every Tuesday at 10am in the Activity Room for silly books, silly songs, and fun crafts. This summer we will focus on ocean themed stories and crafts - perfect for our little explorers! 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Story time - Lap Babies (Free)

10:30 AM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Lap babies at 10:30 am (infant to 23 months) Songs, stories, puppets and more! 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Big Kid Storytime (Free)

11:00 AM - 11:50 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 3 to 7 years old. Join our super fun storytime every Tuesday at 11am, where we read new books, sing new songs, do creative crafts, and make new friends. This summer we will focus on ocean themed stories and crafts! 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Teen Writers NaNoWriMo Group (Free)

6:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Teen Writers NaNoWriMo Group 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Last Tuesday of the month

Tech Tuesdays

4:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Tech Tuesdays (last Tuesday of the Month). Spanish Fort High School Seniors assist Senior Adults with Tech Headaches.

Bing your device and/or your questions to the Spanish Fort Public Library for some hands-on tech assistance. Made possible by the Spanish Fort High School FFCLA chapter of https://fcclainc.org/ Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA)

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Every Wednesday

Storytime - Page & Palette

10:30 AM Page & Palette, 32 S Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 Please join us on Wednesdays at 10:30 AM for storytime! Each week, Miss Paula share a silly story the whole family will enjoy.

251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com

Storytime Wednesday - Spanish Fort Library

10:30 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join the Spanish Fort Public Library for stories, songs, and group time each Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m. Best for ages 5 and under.

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Centennial Park Story Time (Free)

10:30 AM Centennial Park, 1706 Main Street Daphne, AL, 36526 Centennial Park Story Time

251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Bookworm Bandits Book Club (Free)

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 8-12. Need some fun books to read this summer? Ms. Casey has you covered! Join her every Wednesday in Study Room #2 to discuss what you’re reading and chat about the monthly book club picks. Books are provided for free. Questions? Email tweens@ fairhopelibrary.org

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Every third Wednesday

Observe and Explore (Free)

10:00 AM Graham Creek Natural Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 The program will begin at 10:00 am with a story that fits the theme. This will be followed by a short lesson with an activity or science experiment. The program will end with a themed craft. Lessons and activities are based on elementary level concepts and skills related to nature.

251-923-4267 http://grahamcreekpreserve.org

Every Thursday

Babies and Books Storytime (Free)

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages Newborn to 18 months. Join us for our special storytime just for babies and caregivers every Thursday at 10am for nursery rhymes, silly songs, tummy time, and sensory play.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Pre-K Story Time (Free)

10:30 AM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Pre-K story time at 10:30 am (24 months to 4 years) stories and craft.

251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Storytime Thursday - Spanish Fort Library

10:30 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join the Spanish Fort Public Library for stories, songs, and group

FamilyCalendar

time each Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m. Best for ages 5 and under.

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Homeschool Hour

11:00 AM - 11:55 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 8-14. Join us every Thursday at 11am for Homeschool Hour! We will explore a new topic every week, followed by a hands-on craft or STEAM based activity. The idea is to explore fun topics in a laid-back, relaxed setting - the perfect place to make new friends! Need more info? Email youthservices@fairhopelibrary.org

251-929-1465

Thursdays

April 6June 29

Fairhope Outdoor Spring Farmers Market

3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Behind the Fairhope Library, 501 Fairhope Ave Fairhope, AL, Fairhope Outdoor Farmers Market featuring local farmers, handmade goods and kids’ activities.

Every Friday

Free Build - STEM Play (Free)

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 2 to 10 years old. Come put your creative imagination to the test! We will put out all of our legos, soft blocks,

lincoln logs, picnic pieces, buckets of dinosaurs, and more. Join us in the Activity Room for Free Build every Monday and Friday from 9am - Noon.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Every weekend thru April 8

Wales West Cottontail Express

13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL, 36576 Always a family favorite, a ride on real train is only one part of an experience that includes an Easter egg hunt, treats and refreshments, and a visit with the Easter Bunny.

888-569-5337 https://waleswest.com/

Every second Saturday

ART Club Saturday

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM, Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 ART Club Saturday! 9:30 – 10:30 limit of 15 participants. Best for ages 7 and up. Advance registration is recommended to ensure we have enough supplies. Visit https://www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/sfplevents for more information.

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Every third Saturday

Observe and Explore (Free)

10:00 AM Graham Creek Natural Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 The program will begin at 10:00 am with a story that fits the theme. This will be followed by a short lesson with an activity or science experiment. The program will end with a themed craft. Lessons and activities are based on elementary level concepts and skills related to nature.

251-923-4267 http://grahamcreekpreserve.org

Second and fourth Sunday

Mobile Bay

Maker’s Market

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Along Mobile Bay at The Pier, Fairhope, AL, 36532

Taking place every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month, the Mobile Bay Maker’s Market features over 35 local artisans, farmers, and makers along the gulf coast. The event takes place just south of the Fairhope Municipal Pier. Food trucks are also on site.

Every first and third Sunday

Animal Ambassadors

2:00 PM Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at 2 PM as we present one or more of our live educational animals. Free, family friendly, no registration required. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

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.

Social Media: Are We Addicted or Simply Bingeing?

Addiction and bingeing behaviors differ, although they often get lumped into the same conversations. I have been interested in our social media and device behaviors since I listened to a podcast by Dr. Sanjay Gupta titled Chasing Life. If you have yet to listen, it is definitely worth your time. Dr. Gupta is a neurosurgeon, and in the podcast series, he looks at our social media behaviors through the lens of professionals and his daughters. It was one conversation with a professional that had me thinking, are we addicted to social media? Or are we simply bingeing it?

A quick Google search of the definition of the two words pro vides essential informa tion that seems to focus a lot on food and drugs/ alcohol. The definition of binge is a period of excessive indulgence in an activity, especially eating, drinking, or taking drugs. And addiction is the fact or condition of being addicted to a particular substance, thing, or activity. Unfortunately, any further research on addiction and binge behavior as it relates to social media comes up incredibly empty, which reminds me how new we still are to all this.

If we look at addiction, it is considered a brain disorder because it involves functional changes to brain circuits involved in reward, stress, and self-

control, which one could argue happens with social media use. Our brains are following a path that is algorithm-driven. It appeals directly to our reward centers, leaving us with what feels like very little self-control. We crave the next “hit.” We often look for the feel-good hit, but we must acknowledge that the “hit” of something shocking or disturbing also

priate support system to remain drugfree. With social media and devices, we have moved into an era where we almost can not function without them. Just as one with a binge eating disorder cannot live without food, everything from work, school, and social life is connected by a device. So, in reality, we can not simply remove the addiction. Instead, we must learn new behaviors and coping strategies, just as one does with a binge eating disorder.

How do we combat this? We learn new behaviors with monitoring systems to support us. It may look like setting a timer on our phone to remind us to get off the device after 30 minutes. Or the phone is turned off and moved to the other room at night. There are, ironically, apps that provide support and reminders to unplug.

If you feel you are addicted or bingeing your social media, please get in touch with a local counselor or coach and ask for help navigating the behavior. Like any disorder, it can feel incredibly difficult to carry and navigate independently.

holds an appeal. This becomes dangerous for our youth because natural curiosity can replace good decision-making. The more we look, the more we want. And the algorithm continues to support and encourage this behavior, much like a drug addict seeking drugs.

However, it makes sense if we look at our behavior in the context of a binge disorder, such as food. For example, as a drug addict, one can live without drugs. The person can go into rehab, remove the drugs, and place an appro -

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.