Eastern Shore Parents December 2013 by KeepSharing

Starla has always loved to play like a princess...

Today she is one. When Starla came to USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital, at age two, she was already very sick. The physicians soon diagnosed her with a rare form of leukemia. After a courageous battle, Starla is cancer free at four. Today she’s still pretending to be a princess but the physicians and staff at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital know what a real princess she truly is. From diagnosis and treatment to recovery, let USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital care for your family.

251.415.1000

CWH 008 Parents Magazines.indd 2

Find out more at usahealthsystem.com/usacwh

9/12/13 1:16 PM

December2013

Columns

Volume 6 Number 7

Publisher’s Note Lynn Knighton

Living With Children John Rosemond

Toddler Meltdowns in Public

New Year’s Fun with the Family

The do’s and don’ts of handling those embarrassing tantrums.

Instead of an adults only party, enjoy these games with the kids!

Kids Health Watch sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

Dave Says

Dave Ramsey

Centsibly Southern Chic Laura Handey

Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

Holiday Gift Guide

Holiday Savings Tips

Local retailers offer great ideas for your holiday gift giving, many including discounts!

Find 12 creative and thoughtful ideas to help you manage your Christmas budget.

A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Departments On The Cover

Bits and Pieces

Lauren (7), daughter of Traci and Troy Calvert, and big sister to Jack. Proud grandparents are Tom and Sharon Calvert and Ted and Donna Johnston. Lauren loves crafts, church youth group, swimming at the beach, playing games with her brother and friends and spending time with family. Lauren says, “I can’t wait for our elf Peanut to come back and do funny things every night! I am looking forward to singing Christmas carols at my church and baking cookies for Santa Claus!”

School Bits 78

Family Calendar 84

Movie Reviews

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Publisher’sNote Working on this month’s holiday issue has really kicked my Christmas spirit into high gear! I can’t wait to start decorating so I’ve pulled out the decorations a little early. It never hurts to be prepared. We learned that lesson several years ago. We took the girls out to pick the perfect tree. While the tree was “falling out” in the stand, Brad went into the attic to bring down the decorations. But, there were none to be found. Not one box of lights, not one ornament…nothing. After searching high and low, we gave up and chalked it up to a mystery. Our tree had been bare for two full days so I decided to be resourceful. After all, I didn’t want to spend a bunch of money on new decorations when I could buy them cheaper after the holidays. I gathered paper, glue, glitter, etc. and the girls and I got to work. I had the perfect vision of a beautifully quaint homemade tree full of popcorn strings, colorful paper chains and sweet handprint ornaments--grand plans for a woman with three girls ages four and under. First, if you have never strung popcorn, movie theater micro-pop is not the way to go. And trying to get a 21 month old to understand the concept of gluing together a paper chain was not as easy as I thought. And don’t forget the seven month old who just wanted to eat the Fruit Loops (and glue) I was trying to help her string. Let’s just say the vision in my head was not at all what it turned out like. Now, I love my girls’ homemade ornaments more than ANY store bought decoration. I cherish each and every one. But this was a whole other story. I would love to tell you that it was the most beautiful, special tree we have ever had, but I would by lying. The dog pulled the popcorn and Fruit Loops off the tree leaving a mangled mess and the Mardi Gras beads and curly ribbon didn’t exactly scream Hallmark Christmas. When Brad came home, as the two of us stood there staring at the tree, we both started laughing hysterically. He then handed me some money and said, “Now will you go buy some real decorations?” I did, and naturally we found the original ornaments several months later. If you are excited about the holidays, make sure you check out our Holiday Happenings section on page 66. Here you will find Artic Express train rides, traditional Christmas Tree farms, Christmas concerts, snow parties (yes, snow!) and, of course, Santa sightings. You will also find several new activities this year! Family holiday outings can make for great fun, however, if we don’t plan well it can be a nightmare. All parents have experienced it. You are out with the family looking at lights, drinking cocoa and thinking to yourself, “What a perfect day.” Then just about that time, screams and stomping feet suddenly explode from your little one. Public tantrums are never fun, but there are ways to make them a little easier. Judy Miller has provided some helpful tips in this month’s article, The Do’s (and Don’ts) of Handling Your

Toddler’s Public Meltdowns. Now that you have the tantrums under control, it’s time to go shopping! The first thing you need to do is check your budget. Read 12 Holiday Savings Tips for timely ideas to stay on track and avoid starting the new year with extra bills. Once you get your budget set, make your first holiday shopping stop our Holiday Gift Guide on page 61. Here you will find local gift ideas for everyone on your shopping list! We have also included a really fun article, Ring in the New Year with FamilyFriendly Party Games, by Pam Molnar. Don’t’ let the title fool you though, her article details fun and original games you can play with the family any time of year. From my family to yours, here’s wishing you a very Merry Christmas!

Lynn

lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source

Eastern Shore Parents Magazine, is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant, role in our community. Eastern Shore Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers Laura Handey Sara Kendall Judy Miller Pam Molnar Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Dr. Robert L. Rux, M.D. Gerry Paige Smith

Cover Photography Erin Creel www.erincreelphotography.com President Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com

Advertising Opportunities Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall Tracie Calvert ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099 Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us online at www.easternshoreparents.com Eastern Shore Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 374, Montrose, Alabama, 36559. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 929-2099. Eastern Shore Parents is copyrighted 2013 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Eastern Shore Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

www.easternshoreparents.com

ource

on rse, nity. nity ss.

y by , r

in d. ne are view t of

There are more suicides than murders in Alabama every year.

It’s a confidential call...no one will know you called but YOU! Open 24 hours a day if a friend has had suicidal thoughts In 2011, 82 people ages 10 to 24 died by suicide in Alabama.

Talking about suicidal thoughts help reduce the pain.

LK (8255)u 1-800-27ia3l ca-ll.TA No one will know yo

• It is a confident called but you. oughts, are having suicidal th • If you or a friend , to a teacher, to a nd ie fr a o ..t it. t ou ab just talk us...but TALK! coach, to a leader, to 3

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

How Much Bad News Should Parents Tell Their Children? A radio talk show recently called to ask how parents should explain school shootings to their kids. My answer: It depends. I prefer, for the most part, for parents to say nothing unless their children ask questions. And then, when a child asks, for parents to say as little as possible. My rule of thumb has always been to give children only the information they need, when the absolutely need it. An aside: The selectivity of this question says more about the media’s tendency to create drama than any real need on the part of children. For example, when ten children are killed in a school bus accident somewhere, no one in the media calls to ask me how parents should explain school bus accidents. To “explain” school shootings to a child who has not asked questions about them accomplishes nothing of value and is very likely to cause a sharp spike in anxiety. After all, it is a given that the parent

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

in question is explaining because she is anxious, and it is also a given that anxious parents precipitate anxiety in children. The question, then, becomes: What should a parent say about school shootings if a child has heard and expresses worry about them? Under those circumstances, the response should be reassuring (“Your school is safe”) and brief because lots of words can confuse a child and lead, again, to anxiety. Something along these lines, perhaps: “There are people in the world who do bad things. Sometimes these people are bad and sometimes they’re just confused. This is a very bad thing that’s happened. No one understands these things very well. I certainly don’t.” “What if a child asks what he should do if a shooting occurs at his school?” Commonsense dictates that the parent should say, “You should follow instructions from your teacher. Do what your teacher tells you to do.”

“What about kidnappings? Shouldn’t parents warn their children about the possibility of a kidnapping?” That’s a special category because there are things children can do to prevent being kidnapped. My mom warned me of kidnappers. She told me to never get in cars with, allow myself to be led by, or accept candy from strangers. That warning saved my life when I was five years old and a man tried to lure me into his car with the promise of a soda if I would direct him to a certain store. I immediately turned and ran and the man sped off. My mother—single at the time—said she was proud of me for following her instructions. She went around the neighborhood telling the other parents what had happened and also, of course, told the police. I remember a policeman coming to our house and asking me for a description of the man and his car. I’m sure there was increased vigilance in the neighborhood for the next few weeks, but all the kids were out playing the next day. I’m sure it worried my mother greatly, but she never let on. Thanks, Ma. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

www.easternshoreparents.com

t s-

ent

ar ct ed

to on s

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

bits & pieces Christmas Lighted Boat Parade Returns December 14th

The 28th Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade will be held on Saturday, December 14th. Beginning at Lulu’s at Homeport Marina in Gulf Shores at 5:30 p.m., the Parade will travel East down the Intracoastal Canal, passing The Wharf, rounding Bear Point and heading South toward Ono Island where it will make a Westward turn heading toward Perdido Pass. The Parade will then head North circling Terry Cove and back Southward to the Perdido Pass Bridge where it will make a turn to the West ending at Zeke’s Landing Marina at approximately 8:30 p.m. Sign up to participate with your personal boat while there are still slots available. Anyone that is interested should contact Lauren Turner at the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber at (251)-968-6091. If you or your company would like to charter a boat, contact the Orange Beach Fishing Association at (251) 981-2300. Additional information on the parade route, viewing stations and registration is available on the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber website at www.mygulfcoastchamber.com

Mobile Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”

Holiday splendor for the whole family returns to the stage with Mobile Ballet’s lavish production of “The Nutcracker” on Saturday, Dec. 14 and Sunday, Dec. 15 at the Mobile Civic Center Theater. This annual holiday tradition for the entire Gulf Coast region will feature a cast of more than 100, along with guest artists Vilia Putrius and Mindaugas Bauzys, Principal Dancers with Festival Ballet Providence in Rhode Island. A family favorite for kids of all ages, the timeless story features a young girl, Clara, who receives a special gift of a Nutcracker from her mysterious uncle at the family Christmas party. “The Nutcracker” features continuous action, beautiful sets, gorgeous costumes, and the famous music by Tchaikovsky. Students from the Mobile Ballet schools in both Mobile and Daphne will also be seen scampering across the stage as mice in one of the ballet’s most humorous scenes. According to Winthrop Corey, Artistic Director, Mobile Ballet’s production has become an annual holiday tradition for many families. Ticket prices range from $20 to $40, with an additional $5 discount for children, students, seniors, and military ID. Group discounts are also available for 15 or more. There are three performances, including a 2:30 matinee and 7:30 p.m. performance on Saturday, Dec. 14 and a 2:30 matinee on Sunday, Dec. 15. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Mobile Ballet box office at (251) 342-2241 or visit the website www.mobileballet.org.

Lower Alabama Lacrosse League Opens Registration

Lights of Love 2013

Help us celebrate the excitement and wonder of this holiday season! Everyone is invited to the annual "Lights of Love" tree lighting at USA Children's and Women's Hospital beginning at 6 p.m., Tuesday, December 10. The tree lighting directly in front of the hospital will also feature visits from Santa Claus and Ronald McDonald, as well as performances from local school and community choirs. Visitors can enjoy cookies and cocoa while strolling the grounds of the beautiful Geri Moulton Children's Park that forms the entrance to Children's & Women's Hospital. Parking will be available at the nearby USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. For details, call 251-415-1636 or e-mail cwhdevelop@usouthal.edu.

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

The Lower Alabama Lacrosse League has opened registration for the Lower Alabama Bayhawks regular season and runs through December 10, 2013. Players will begin season play with practice starting January 7, 2014. Experienced as well as first-time players can register at www.LALLAX. com. The league focuses on skills and development along with game experience for boys ages 8 -18. The volunteer-run program is a community effort to continue to bring and expand lacrosse on the Eastern Shore of Alabama as well as our Gulf Coast Region. For more information please contact Christina Hellmich at 251-4545277 or bayhawksecretary@gmail.com. 6

www.easternshoreparents.com

ay of

ion s,

da ce

m n

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

bits & pieces Orange Beach Public Library Partnering with Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots

The Orange Beach Public Library is once again working with Toys for Tots for the upcoming 2013 holiday season. The Library is a collection site for dropping off new toys to be distributed by the Marine Corps Reserve to needy children in the area for the holiday season. All toys will be distributed in Baldwin County. Toys can be donated during Library hours Monday, Tuesday and Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Items must be new, unwrapped and in their original packaging and for children ages 12 and under. Toys for Tots has been collecting and delivering toys for children since 1947 when Major Bill Hendricks USMCR and a group of Marine Reservists collected and distributed 5000 toys to needy children.

United Bank Joins Fight Against Breast Cancer

United Bank is joining with the Bay Minette Fire Department in the fight against breast cancer. Employees at the Bay Minette branches are wearing shirts sold by the BMFD in October as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Proceeds from the sale of the shirts will be donated to the North Baldwin Infirmary Foundation to help cover the costs of mammograms for those in need. United Bank employees pictured include Angela Dorman, Matt Boyington, Brady Hall, Carolyn Crane, Emilee Waters, Renee Jones, Debra Nix, Lynn Coleman and David Dean. They are joined by BMFD staffers Fire Inspector Steven Stewart, Captain Jeremy McKissack, Lt. Chris Phillippi and Firefighters Brian Dees and Nate Perkins.

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

s w

â&#x20AC;&#x153;l w

h or , ,

ris

Coyote Crossing Joins Beloved Paths of Backcountry Trail System

There may have been rain, but that did not dampen the spirits of the over 120 people who came to celebrate the opening of the newest trail in the Backcountry Trail system at a special ribbon-cutting event on Friday, November 15 at noon. Alabama Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources State Parks Division Director Greg Lein, Carolyn Doughty, Mayor Pro Tempore of Gulf Shores, County Commissioner Tucker Dorsey, City Councilman Jerry Johnson, and many other city and county officials and community leaders, as well as trail namesake Mr. Hugh S. Branyon himself, were on hand for the special luncheon and ribbon cutting event at the Gulf State Park headquarters. The new 2-mile trail starts at the Gulf Oak Ridge trailhead inside the Gulf State Park and winds west all the way to Hwy. 59, where a crosswalk allows access to the paved path that runs five miles down Fort Morgan Rd. Walkers, runners and bikers can now enjoy going from west Gulf Shores all the way to Orange Beach without ever getting into a car. Avid exercisers also can now go 40 miles round trip on safe and scenic paved paths. Funding for this trail was provided by the City of Gulf Shores, who received a Trail Enhancement (TE) Grant from the Alabama Department of Transportation that paid for 80% of the construction costs. The City paid for the remaining 20% of the construction costs as well as the design fees. The trail was named in a special social media contest, where fans of the Backcountry Trail’s Facebook page were asked to submit their name suggestions. A committee reviewed dozens of suggestions and actually combined the suggestions of several fans to come up with the name Coyote Crossing, a nod to local wildlife. The Backcountry Trail system, which runs through the Gulf State Park, is one of the most important natural attractions in the area. With six distinct ecosystems, the Trail is home to a wide range of familiar, rare and threatened flowers, plants and trees. The trail is also a bird- and wildlife-watcher’s paradise, thanks to many species of animals, raptors and songbirds. A butterfly garden, kid’s boulder park and a picnic pavilion also make it the perfect place to spend the day with family. The new trail is now open to the public every day from dawn until dusk. Visit www.backcountrytrail.com.

Orange Beach Library Announces Winner of Candy Corn Counting Contest

Orange Beach Public Library’s annual Candy Corn Contest concluded Halloween afternoon. Many contestants chose “luck” to help them guess the number of candies in the jar. Others chose to estimate mathematically. The lucky one to walk away with the jar of candy was Tony Papadelias, who missed the actual number of candies by six. Congratulations Tony and thanks to everyone for participating in our holiday game. Pictured are Patsy Rose, Children’s Librarian and Tony Papadelias, Winner.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

bits & pieces Dancers Support Breast Cancer Awareness

Wales West Arctic Express

Gulf Coast Dance Alliance went pink during the month of October to support Breast Cancer Awareness! Pictured are dancers forming the breast cancer awareness ribbon.

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

Th se

Wales West Light Railwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ninth Annual Arctic Express will take patrons on an authentic steam train ride through the park while enjoying over ONE MILLION Christmas lights, inflatables, and light displays. At the "North Pole", the children will sit on Santa's lap for photos and tell him what they want for Christmas. Children will receive a free wooden train or train whistle which they decorate with crafts provided. Back at the train station, refreshments will be served to all. Adults and children can enjoy a ride on the miniature train, and children enjoy the inflatable obstacle course on the playground. For a nominal fee, there is also a petting zoo, pony ride, snowball cannon, face painting, and caricature artist available. Wales West Light Railway will be open Fridays from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 3 p.m. til' 9 p.m. from November 29 through December 15; starting December 16, they will be open daily through December 24 from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. Admission is only $12 per person, plus tax; infants 13 months or younger are free. Contact Wales West Light Railway at 888-569-5337 or go to waleswest.com for more information.

www.easternshoreparents.com

fa r an co n

R A

Salvation Army Holiday Programs Need Volunteers and Donations

The Salvation Army of Coastal Alabama hopes to make the 2013 holiday season a little brighter for those in need throughout Mobile and Baldwin Counties through our various holiday programs. The Angel Tree Program provides Christmas gifts to families in need throughout Mobile & Baldwin Counties. There are several ways the community can help with Angel Tree: Adopt an individual Angel from our tree in BelAir Mall, Host a toy/gift drive for our “Forgotten Angels” – angels who do not get adopted or whose gifts do not get returned or volunteer at our Angel Tree in Bel-Air Mall. The Neediest Families Program aids local families during the holidays and throughout the year. Half of the money raised aids the operation of The Salvation Army’s Center for Women and Children. The rest goes to suffering families in Mobile and Baldwin counties dealing with medical costs, housing bills and other emergency needs throughout the year. To donate: Send a check or money order made out to The Salvation Army Neediest Families, 1009 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604. Red Kettle Campaign - Today, donations to Salvation Army of Coastal Alabama Kettles at Christmas time support holiday meals for homeless and needy families, but also help The Salvation Army serve those in need through our various programs all year long. Volunteers are needed. Please visit www.salvationarmyalm.org/coastalalabama or call (251) 438-1625 to volunteer or for more information.

Original Oyster House Wins 2013 Taste of Mobile Best Independent Restaurant

Taste of Mobile celebrated its 36th annual event at the Arthur R. Outlaw Convention Center on November 7. One of the city's largest dinner parties, Taste of Mobile was host to over 1200 diners who partook in fabulous samplings of over 50 of our area's best restaurants. Proceeds benefited Goodwill Easter Seals of the Gulf Coast, helping people with disabilities in our community. This year Taste of Mobile’s judging panel awarded Original Oyster House the 2013 Best Independent Restaurant. The combination of the tastiest cheese grits around topped with blackened shrimp was prepared and served by Chef Richie Pippin, kitchen manager of Original Oyster House on the causeway. The booth design was as awesome as Pippin's shrimp 'n cheese grits. Eastern Shore Art Center Community Outreach Director Nancy Raia creatively illustrated an 8 foot x 8 foot backdrop displaying sea creatures juggling, plate spinning and performing to a stand up crowd. Original Oyster House's Circus under the Sea was a hit with the Taste of Mobile judges and diners alike. Pictured, Chef Richie Pippin, Kitchen Manager of Original Oyster House on the causeway, and Nancy Raia, Eastern Shore Art Center Community Outreach Director, celebrate winning the 2013 Best Independent Restaurant at this year’s Taste of Mobile.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

bits & pieces Mobile's Singing Children to Present Christmas Concerts

Mobile's Singing Children presents their 37th Season Christmas Concerts in Mobile and Spanish Fort. The first concert will be held Saturday, December 7th, 7 p.m., at the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception located at 2 South Claiborne Street in Mobile. On Friday, December 13th at 7 p.m. Mobile's Singing Children will perform at Spanish Fort United Methodist Church located at 6530 Spanish Fort Boulevard. Admission is free and donations gratefully accepted at the door. Suggested donation is $10 per person or $25 per family. Boys and girls ages 2 - 12 who are interested in joining the group may request information on the mid-semester auditions. Please contact Susan Hoitt, director at (251) 285-2285 or mobilesingingchildren@gmail.com

Free Estuarium Children’s Admission November 25 to December 30

The Estuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab turned 15 this year, and to thank Coastal Alabama for all its support, it will be offering free children’s admission to residents of Mobile and Baldwin Counties. From November 25 to December 30, the Estuarium will be offering one free child’s (5-18 years old; children 4 and under are free at all times) admission with each paid adult admission. Proof of residency in Mobile or Baldwin County must be provided. (Some exclusions apply). For those visitors who come under this promotion, we will also be offering a 15% discount in our wonderful Gift Shop, just in time for the holidays. (To qualify for this discount, you must have paid admission under this special offer. Offer valid only during the same visit). For more information on hours and directions, visit estuarium.disl.org or call 866-403-4409. Thank you, Coastal Alabama, for a fabulous 15 years!

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

G G c th at

% al nk

Gulf Coast Young Musicians Competition

Baldwin County Music Teachers held the Gulf Coast Young Musicians Competition on November 2 at the Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church in Fairhope. Thirty-five students participated for trophies and medallions, and the three older divisions received $100 in cash for the first place winner. Each contestant performed a selection from memory on which they were judged on various musical elements and their stage presence. The Steinway Award was given to that contestant with the most outstanding performance of the day. This year's winner was Tanner Hess in Division III (ages 12-13). The award was presented by Christy Broussard-Meyer from Broussard's Piano Gallery in Mobile. Participants were: Division I (Ages 7-9): Ty Hartman, Lillie Conner, Charlotte Finnamore, Ruthie Wilson, Mala Cross, Benjamin Conner, Molly Brown, Marguerite Cowles, Kayleigh Thomas, Lillie Lassiter, Anna Dorris. Winners are: Anna Dorris - First Place; Molly Brown - Second Place; Kayleigh Thomas - Third Place; Mala Cross - Honorable Mention. Division II ( Age 10-11): Eli Foster, Garris Adamson, Lily Glosford, Katherine McKinney, Emma Finnamore, Lillian Krueger, Jennifer Tan, Austin Gray, Madison Petrus, Allison Higginbotham. The winners are: Jennifer Tan - First Place; Austin Gray - Second Place; Emma Finnamore - Third Place; Katherine McKinney - Honorable Mention. Division III ( Age 12-13): Claire Dunagan, Tanner Hess, Lana Stringer, Jessica Peterson, Daniel Perkins, Joshua Foster. The winners are: Tanner Hess - First Place; Jessica Peterson - Second Place; Daniel Perkins - Third Place; Joshua Foster - Honorable Mention. Division IV Participants (Age 14-15): Erin Brown, Ryan G. Haase, Haley Trip, Lena Cole Speir, Whitney Williams, Connie Ng. The winners in the division are: Ryan G. Haase - First Place; Lena Cole-Speir - Second Place; Erin Brown - Third Place. Division V (Ages 16-18): Macy Colquette - First Place; Rebecca Hunter - Second Place. We congratulate all the participants for their outstanding courage to compete and their dedication to music study. Many teachers from across the Gulf Coast participated. We hope another year will find many others in the area competing for valuable prizes. Go to www. baldwincountymusicteachersassociation.com for more photos of the event.

New Year's Eve Beach Bash!

Gulf Shores will close out its holiday season by ringing in 2014 with the New Year’s Eve Beach Bash at the Gulf State Park Pavilion. The event kicks off at 8 p.m. and festivities on the beach include a large bonfire, campfires with s’mores and a live DJ, while Top Hat and Jackie will be providing live entertainment under the pavilion. The evening will be highlighted by a spectacular fireworks display from the Gulf State Park Pier at 10 p.m. followed by a second show to ring in the New Year at midnight. This first-time event is the result of a partnership between the City of Gulf Shores, Gulf State Park and the City of Orange Beach and will officially kick off the statewide celebration of the 75th Anniversary of Alabama’s State Parks.

You picked the name. Be Prepared. Prepared the nursery. You even put locks on ® Call Alfa . all the drawers and cabinets. But do you have a plan for their future if you’re not around? With Alfa® life insurance, you can make sure your loved ones are taken care of — no matter what happens. For a plan built just for you, call Alfa®.

Morgan Bradley 2510 Main St. Daphne, AL 36526

(251) 626-3383

mbradley@alfains.com

AUTO • HOME • LIFE www.AlfaInsurance.com AO12

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

bits & pieces Come Enjoy Some Tiramisu with a Touch of Christmas

Join us in our presentation of this fall’s performance of the IMPACT drama club! “Tiramisu With a Touch of Christmas” will feature a cast of over 30 students ranging in age from 3-17 years of age. In the setting of a 50’s Diner you will find the characters interacting as well as entertaining. An original play, “Tiramisu With a Touch of Christmas” will teach us all a lesson about the meaning of Christmas. This organization is designed to IMPACT the lives of the students and families involved. We offer developmental instruction and performance opportunities in the creative and performing arts that will build life skills, promote self-esteem, support success and strengthen the students of today to become the leaders of tomorrow. We also seek to IMPACT the community with quality, family-friendly theater experiences. Tuesday December 3, 2013, Daphne Civic Center. Featuring the Baldwin County Youth Orchestra. 10 a.m. Matinee, and 7:00 p.m. Evening Performance. A Free Community Event! In order to raise money for our club, concessions will be available – Tiramisu along with other treats! Donations will be accepted at the door, and we will have a Silent Auction. For info call 251-599-0716.

Center Stage Presents “Cinderella” and “Honk! Jr.”

The Musical Theatre Department of Center Stage Performance has a busy month of December planned! We begin on Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7 with performances of “Cinderella” (Kids’ Edition) at 6:30 p.m. each night, and continue on Friday, December 13 and Saturday, December 14 with performances of “Honk! Jr.” at 6:30 p.m. each night and a 1:00 matinée on Saturday. “Honk! Jr.” is the story of Ugly, an awkward duck whose gawky looks instantly incite prejudice from his family and neighbors. Separated from the farm and pursued by a hungry cat, Ugly must find his way home. Along his rollicking and harrowing journey, he not only discovers his true beauty and glorious destiny but also finds love and acceptance in all its forms. Witty and hilarious, but also deeply moving, “HONK! JR.” will treat you to equal amounts of laughter and tears. All performances will be held at the Daphne Elementary North Auditorium, located at 2307 Main Street in Daphne. Tickets to each show are $7 and available at A Fairhope Antiquery located at 100 N. Section Street, Fairhope, starting December 2nd. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

ch ng u is nd m, ty, m.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

Bullies and Backpacks Now that school is in full swing, I want to discuss two important topics that come up every year and have recently come up in both my practice and the national media. First is bullying. As you know, bullying is when one child picks on another child repeatedly. Bullying can be physical, verbal, or even social. It can happen at school, on the playground, on the school bus, in the neighborhood, or over the internet. Next, I want to talk about backpacks and safety issues for your child. First let’s discuss if your child is being bullied. Oftentimes, it can take a while to discover what is going on. Some kids are embarrassed, and some feel threatened if they “tell” on the bully. Look for clues, especially a sudden fear of school or the playground or even someone’s house. Bullies prey on fear, so if it is happening, here are some ways you can teach your kid to respond. First, look the bully in the eye, stand tall and stay calm in a difficult situation, and then walk away. This seems so simple, but a bully only wants to pick on someone who is scared and fearful. Then, teach your child how to say in a firm voice: “I don’t like what you are doing,” or “Please do NOT talk to me like that!” The other important keys are to teach your child when and how to ask for help. If it continues to be a recurrent problem,

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

then alert school officials to the problems and work with them on solutions. And last but not least, make sure there is an adult who knows about the bullying and can watch out for your child’s well-being when you cannot be there. Now, the flip side is when your child is the bully. While none of our children would “ever do anything like that,” the reality is…. it happens. So, be sure your child knows that bullying is never OK and set firm and consistent limits on your child’s aggressive behavior. And be a positive role model. Your children learn the majority of their behavior at home. So, show children they can get what they want without teasing, threatening or hurting someone. And when it comes to disciplining your child, use effective, nonphysical discipline, such as loss of privileges. If it becomes a frequent problem, then work to come up with practical solutions with the school principal, teachers, counselors, the child’s physician, and, most importantly, the parents of the children your child has bullied. If your child has witnessed any of this, tell him not to cheer on or even quietly watch bullying and remind him to tell a trusted adult about the bullying. Help your child support other children who may be bullied and encourage your child to include these children in their activities. And certainly teach your child to join in telling bullies to stop.

The last thing I want to touch on are backpacks. With every year, it seems kids have more books to carry from class to class and back and forth from home to school. This weight can cause a lot of problems with back, neck and shoulder pain. It’s important to have a backpack that is lightweight, but sturdy and has two wide, padded shoulder straps and a waist strap. To help prevent injuries, remind your kids to always use both straps and tighten them close to the body. In addition, pack all of the heaviest items closest to the center of the pack and remind them to bend down using both knees instead of at the waist. And most importantly, encourage frequent stops at lockers, and only carry home what they need. If symptomatic, see your doctor to discuss some backstrengthening stretches and exercises. As always, good luck this school year and check out the resources on aap.org. Robert L. Rux, M.D. is a Board Certified Pediatrician at Magnolia Springs Pediatrics. Originally from Mobile, he attended medical school at The University of Alabama School of Medicine (UAB) and completed residency at The Children’s Hospital of Alabama (UAB). He is married to Jaime and has three children, Adler, Walker and Mary McAtee.

www.easternshoreparents.com

Why WALK in a winter wonderland? Take a Real Train Ride while enjoying

1,000,000 lights! s

plu

UAL ANN h t 9

h t

h In est

at e

at he

Meet SANTA

FREE Wooden Train or Train Whistle!

s ! board ll A

and get a

NOV. 29th thru DEC. 24th, Fridays 4 till 9PM Saturdays & Sundays 3 till 9PM

BEGINNING DEC. 16th (thru Dec. 24th) OPEN DAILY 4 till 9PM

$12 PER PERSON (plus tax)

13 months & under FREE

FREE!!

Inflatable Bouncer North Pole Santa Visit & Toy (with paid admission) Crafts Refreshments: Hot Cocoa, Cookie & Candy Cane!

Also... (slight fee)

Miniature Train Ride Authentic Steam Train Ride

Petting Zoo, Snowball Cannon, Pony Rides, Cafe & Gift Shop!

WALES WEST LIGHT RAILWAY

13670 Smiley St.

County Road 9 near Silverhill (outside of Fairhope)

888-569-5337

WalesWest.com

1.2 miles south of Co. Rd. 48, or 2.5 miles north of Co. Rd. 32

It is the policy of Wales West LLC not to discriminate against any individual on the basis of disability, including persons who have HIV or Aids, or against any individual because of his or her relationship with a person with a disability, including persons who have HIV or Aids. Wales West LLC will not exclude any individual with a disability, including persons who have HIV or Aids, from the full and equal enjoyment of its goods, services, facilities or accommodations. The Wales West ADA Compliance Official Mr. Ken Zadnichek, Jr. may be reached at (888) 569-5337 or email him at compliance@waleswest.com 17

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga Bayshore Christian School Class County Schools Studies Greek Mythology

Students in Miss Whitecotton’s third grade class at Bayshore Christian School in Fairhope dressed up as Greek gods. “Each one of them loves the Greek myths and gods and learning more about ancient Greek culture”. The class also competed in their own Olympic games. From left to right (back row) William Nance, Abigail Doremus, Virginia Grace Megginson, John Malone, Ravenna Rose Brandon, Kadence McAlister Miss Whitecotton, and Jack Howley; (front row) Landon Miller, AJ Macaro, Sara Heger, Peyton Steed, John Will Kirkland, Brie Stinson, Andrew Wiest, and John Morgan Flowers.

Christ the King Catholic School Honor Roll

Christ the King Catholic School announced honor roll students for the first quarter. Eighth grade students who earned an "A" in all subjects are, from left, bottom row, Abby Kiernan, Lizzie Swanson, Jensen Graddick, Sara Boyd, Michelle Polczynski, Grace Ready, Erica Schilling, and Jeanne Marie Garriz. Back row, Brendon Roh, Jack Adamski, Annabelle Algiers, Shannon Dyas, Ella Dawson, Jadyn Domning, Daniel Goergen, and Nicholas Schott.

FMS Students... Not Your Average ROOKies

L B de

S b

Several Fairhope Middle School students recently joined the Chess Club at Fairhope High School. The middle school portion of the club is the largest in the Mobile and Baldwin Counties school

gra a

systems, both public and private. Pictured, in no particular order, are: Samuel Crider, Logan Darring, Hudson Defee, Arthur Howard, Josh Hunley, Noah Pilcher, Edward Puckett, Grady Rozum, Wanda Schlumpf, Wesley Schlumpf, Walt Swan, Turner Thomas, Nathan Valentine, and Warren Wegener.

Colonial School Days at St. Patrick Catholic School

The Baldwin EMC Starlight Award to our teacher, Natasha Pratt, brought us back to Colonial Days. Pictured is (front L to R) Lani Bill, Ezra Sexton, Jessica Thomley, (top L to R) Clare Davis, Ethan Olsen, Natasha Pratt, and Kenzie White, with their corn husk dolls and silhouettes. Thank you Baldwin EMC for your support of education at St. Patrick Catholic School. Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

he ts en a , n,

Baldwin County H.S. Student and School Win Prizes for GoDaddy Bowl Art Competition

Congratulations to Baldwin County High School student Lori Norwood, left, on being selected as a finalist (in the top three) in this year's GoDaddy Bowl and New Horizons Credit Union Art Competition. Lori will receive an award and prizes and BCHS will receive a cash prize for the art department. Renee McNeil, right, is the art teacher at BCHS.

Three Central Christian School Students Perform in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Annie Jr.â&#x20AC;?

Three students from Central Christian School were in the "Annie Jr" production by the Eastern Shore Repertory Theater running Oct. 31 thru Nov. 2: Jodi Johnson 3rd grade, Morgan Frankline 6th grade, and Mia McConnell 7th grade. The 1st, 3rd, and 6th grade classes attended the play on Oct 31. Pictured is Mia McConnell, left.

: ,

as,

St.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County SchoolsStudent Wins iPod Shuffle Elberta Middle School from Worlds of Opportunity Event

Southwest Alabama Workforce Development Council's Worlds of Opportunity was held at the Mobile Civic Center on September 25th and 26th. Worlds of Opportunity originated in 2010 and has been held for four consecutive years. This event had numerous sponsors (for full list check the website) but the "big four" were Alabama Power, Georgia Pacific, Exxon Mobile, and Go Build Alabama. Over 10,000 students across Southwest Alabama participated in the event. Out of these 10,000 plus students, there were 12 winners. 6 winners were based on a drawing from their "passports" while the other 6 were drawn based on the online survey they completed. Elberta Middle's Wanda Sherockman was a lucky winner. On behalf of Alabama Power and SAWDC Wanda was presented with an iPod shuffle.

he lif fu g â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ab d a wa

Gulf Shores Elementary 2nd Grade Community Field Trip

The second grade classes at Gulf Shores Elementary School recently were treated to a local field trip where they visited the police station, the fire station and the library. They learned about community helpers and what these departments do for the citizens of Gulf Shores. It was hard to pick a favorite activity of theirs but things that were so interesting were the city jail, the firefightersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bedrooms and getting to go behind the counter in the library! Pictured (l to r) are second graders Madison Marshall and Julie Lacey in the cab of a fire truck.

f p

Types of Evaluations Offered: Learning Problems Anxiety Disorders Mood Disorders ADHD Dr. Murphree is a licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents.

Abuse/Trauma Depressive Disorders Behavioral Disorders Autistic Spectrum Disorders Intellectual Functioning

East Bay Psychiatry and Associates (251) 928-4750 eastbaypsych@att.net Accepting Aetna, All Kids, American Behavioral, Blue Advantage, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, Cigna, Compsych, Magellan, Medicaid, Medicare, MHCA, State EIB, United Behavioral Health, Value Options

chrismurphree.org Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

W C

he 0 ist , he na

Spanish Fort Elementary Disabled Class Visits Gym

Holly M. Colclough, teacher of a multi-disabled class at Spanish Fort Elementary School and her 4 amazing paraprofessionals, love to promote student self-confidence and success while having fun, placing a big emphasis on practical life skills. At least once a month they take meaningful field trips into the community to work on life skills. The purpose of these trips is exposure for the students and the community, and to explore possible job opportunities. They wear neon yellow t-shirts stating “In Training” on the back, and when asked, they tell people they are in training for life! The first trip for this school year was to Bay City Gymnastics to explore the many different ways to receive sensory input in the gym with our new friends Lisa Mavar and Justin Moore. What an exhilarating experience! Lisa and Justin captured the students’ attention immediately, and maintained it the entire visit by keeping the students constantly moving. Since the students love to talk and listen to good stories we decided to start interviewing the people we meet on our field trips. While Lisa and Justin sat on the floor with the students, eating lunch, they answered questions we had prepared before our trip. They discovered they were in the presence of two extremely interesting and talented people. Lisa Mavar, “Coach Lisa”, has been working for the gym for 3 years. Growing up she was a cheerleader and dancer. After having 3 girls who all participate in gymnastics, Coach Lisa became involved with gymnastics so she could be near her daughters. She loves watching kids learn how to do gymnastics while having fun, so she became a coach. Coach Lisa believes, “What makes a good teacher is for the teacher to love what he or she does.” She encourages “team work” with all of her students, but the first and most important skill she teaches is SAFETY. Coach Lisa’s main goal with her students is to show students an active lifestyle can be fun, and exercising is good for you. Practice and having fun are the other skills she places emphasis on. When asked if she sees gymnastics making a difference in the lives of her students, she stated, “Absolutely! It provides a variety of exercise, and encourages confidence, discipline, and team work.” Justin Moore, “Batman”, is recreation coach at Bay City gymnastics. He helped Coach Lisa the day we visited, and was amazing! “Batman” was a natural, and connected with the students. They adored him. We look forward to going back.

Spanish Fort High School Holds Poetry Contest

A group of talented students from Spanish Fort High School participated in the school's poetry contest. The contest is sponsored by the SFHS English department. Students performed various poetry selections in front of their peers and were judged on their performances. Featured participants included: Kaylan Alday, Ashton Prouty, Jesscia Kiser, Bailey Bynre, Sean DePuma, Chris Rose, Blake Baker, Claire Wilson, Erin Thomas, Ashley Tippit, Ben Simpson, and Brandon Cato. Congratulations to all of the students who did an outstanding job in their performances!

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools

A Fairhope High School FBLA Club Visits Coke and Hyundai Plants

Recently Fairhope High School's FBLA - Future Business Leaders of America's club visited the Coke plant and also the Hyundai Manufacturing Plant in Montgomery, AL. The students observed Coke products such as Dasani water and Fanta being poured, processed, labeled, packed and prepared for shipment. The group had the chance to speak with the operations manager of the plant and also received a complimentary bag of Coke products. At the Hyundai plant, the group was led through the many buildings on the grounds and saw the Hyundai Sonata and Elantra being built from start to finish. The trip ended with a visit to the test track that each vehicle is tested on before shipment to car lots nationwide. The group is pictured with the most expensive vehicle produced by Hyundai - the Hyundai Equus valued at $69,000. Pictured, Front row - Mary Davis, Emily Cook, Amari Williams, Shelby Marston, Molly McClung, ShawnaRaye Robinson, Martha Fowler, Jordan Fulkerson, Amelia Thumser, Sarah Grace Cook, Brooke Jackson; 2nd row- Tori Ferguson, Taylor Marston, Sarah Faust, Helena Johson, Sarah Nealy; 3rd row - Tyrell Jones, Jordyn Wainwright, Mary Hastings, Puckett, Dylan Strachan, Zack Chatham, Halle Miller, Tessa Washington, Caroline Chambliss. The group is sponsored by business teachers Melissa Cook and Kristie Davis.

P Mi

Ele the Se Sc Ye he Ele ag te fi t

t ch

W th J

a H M Rie cl po cl t

V Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

d ak so . h e rt

ent h ai g, n,

Perdido Elementary/ Middle School Announces “Teachers of the Year”

Perdido Elementary/ Middle School recently announced Mrs. Amy Hill as their Elementary Teacher of the Year, and Mr. Will Sellers as their Middle School Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Hill began her career at Perdido Elementary nine years ago as a Kindergarten teacher. For the past 5 years, she has taught first grade. Amy is the wife of Joe Hill, and the mother of triplets; Myles, Maddie and Morgan. Mr. Sellers has been a teacher in the Baldwin County for 15 years. Prior to becoming a teacher, Mr. Sellers was in the Army and Army Reserves. In addition to teaching middle school, Will has been a member of the band, Fat Lincoln, for the past four years. The band, made up of musicians from Mobile, perform throughout the Alabama and Mississippi Gulf Coasts. Both teachers say that the best part of being a teacher is the children. Pictured with Mr. Sellers, is Mr. Craig Smith, Principal.

Improving Life, One Smile at a Time

H. L. Strickland, Jr., DDS, PA 7489 Parker Road | Fairhope, AL 36532 251.928.9292 | 888.335.7493 www.StricklandOrthodontics.com

Celebrating Veteran's Day at Daphne Elementary

While visiting the battleship, John Austin Sanders and Haydn Haynes from Mrs. Shaynna Riel’s first grade class present a poster from the class thanking the veterans, in honor of Veteran's Day.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Foley Intermediate School Honors Veterans Foley Intermediate School honored local veterans and active military service men and women on Thursday, November 7. Students presented a program that included plenty of music, an essay reading, a flag-folding demonstration, a student-created video, and presentation of certificates to our visiting honorees. Following the program, students served refreshments to their guests and enjoyed visiting with them. The students learned the importance of remembering and appreciating the sacrifices made by our military men and women in the past as well as that of those who are currently serving. Pictured are Vietnam Veteran Jim Muldoon and 6th grade student Zora Osborn.

Silverhill Kindergartners Visit Thomas Hospital

We will teach your child to be stronger, “bully-proof”, more confident, & better prepared ED T I UNATES to face the challenges of life! T

DO TAEKWON

Classes start at $89/mo. DAPHNE 621-9933

Kindergarten students from Ms. O'Brian's class recently visited Thomas Hospital. Students were given a tour of the hospital. They visited the ER, the security office, the nursery, and the lab. Students learned about different jobs available at the hospital and how these community helpers are important. Pictured Shiloh Bishop with a Thomas Hospital Volunteer.

Master Kim

E FRE l i Tr a s s a l C

“Pay As You Go”- No Contracts

BAY MINETTE 232-7598

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

Family Discount

SEMMES 786-5425 24

www.easternshoreparents.com

nd ts

ur ell . n

rs l

. e ut d nt.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools Fire Department Teaches Robertsdale Fire Safety to Kindergartners

Kindergartners at Robertsdale Elementary School were thrilled recently when they received a very special visit from members of the city’s volunteer fire department. The firefighters taught the students basic fire safety rules and precautions including the need to “stop, drop, and roll” in a fire, and the importance of making an escape plan with their family. They showed the students some of the tools they use when putting out fires, and even let the kids pass through the passenger area of the fire truck they brought to the school. As a special treat the kids were able to take pictures with Sparky the Fire Dog, and got to see just how high the water shoots out of the truck’s hose.

A V J.

Peer Helpers at Saint Benedict Catholic School

sm M A No 3

Pictured are the 2013-2014 Peer Helpers for Saint Benedict Catholic School. Peer Helpers is sponsored by the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation. These students act as role models, tutors, leaders of discussion groups, and special project assistants for fundraising and community service projects. (Pictured front row left to right) Isabel Acker, Reilly Mapp, Cameron Blanchard. (Back row left to right) Elizabeth Buchanan, Erin Corcoran, Bonnie Johnson, Elliott Johnson, and Cameron Murphy.

Have your Birthday Party with me at Alligator Alley!

Feed an alligator!

Call for details.

See over 300 alligators up close!

Nature walk on elevated boardwalk. View alligator feedings. Field Trips/Birthday Parties available. Fun for the entire family!

www.gatoralleyfarm.com 19950 Hwy 71 • Summerdale, AL Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

1-866-99-GATOR 26

Safe for kids! OPEN 6 Days A Week 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. www.easternshoreparents.com

to Y i ce

Author and Illustrator Visit J. Larry Newton Elementary

J. Larry Newton Elementary School second grader, Dayton-Brooke Harris, is all smiles about getting to meet the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maggie McNairâ&#x20AC;? book series author Sheila BoothAlberstadt and illustrator Norris Hall on Nov. 4th. They spoke to Kindergarten thru 3rd grade students about their books on healthy living and promoted their new books.

Gulf Shores Middle School Students Make Local Orchestras Congratulations to Gulf Shores Middle School students Julie Ann Brazell and Taylor Holley for making the Baldwin County Youth Orchestra and to Sophie Shea for making the Mobile Youth Symphony Orchestra! The BCYO is in their third year, and the MYSO is celebrating their 60th anniversary. Both youth orchestras are full symphony orchestras for students in their early college years and younger who are interested in expanding their skills. Well done ladies for these wonderful accomplishments!

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools

Fairhope Elementary Class Hypothesizes About Pumpkin Seeds

Mrs. Brandi Corbett’s Fairhope Elementary Kindergarten class learned that a Hypothesis is a Guess. So, they hypothesized “How many seeds does our pumpkin have?” They were so brave to scoop out the seeds and put them in groups of ten. They skip counted by tens…and ended up with 321. After roasting and tasting the seeds, they answered the question “Do you like roasted pumpkin seeds?” and created their first Venn Diagram.

Firefighters Visit Orange Beach Public Library Storytime

Ch S V ar S an

Local firefighters visited story time at Orange Beach Public Library on October 22. Their visit was in observance of National Fire Prevention Week, which occurs every October. Our junior firefighters at story time learned to STOP-DROP-and ROLL after they received their helmets, badges, and a sticker. When the fire truck arrived, everyone was able to inspect the truck and have their picture taken with a firefighter dressed for a real fire. The firefighters answered questions for the group. This is always a fun and educational annual program for the Library.

St Le

0000067769-01

New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.

Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!

We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?

Riverview Reﬁnement, Program, Campﬁres night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...

waiting lists start early...sign up soon!... Waitingwww.riverviewcamp.com! lists start early...sign up soon!... 1

Call for FREE DVD and catalog 1-800-882-0722 Accredited by American Camping Association • Members of Christian Camping International

D RAMA

www.riverviewcamp.com

Only 1 /Mountain 2 hours from Huntsville Located on top of Lookout in Mentone, AL. Only a 5 hr drive.

AND

Dr. Larry & Susan Hooks, Owners/Directors • Donna Bares,Asst. Director

1 & 2Week Sessions for Ages 6-16

C RAFTS • C HORUS

first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse. Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness... I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,

AND

FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF

We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.

B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS

• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •

• R OPES C OURSE • C LIMBING T OWER • O UTDOOR L IVING S KILLS • C AMPFIRE F UN • C OUNSELOR -I N -T RAINING •

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

a ve ed

W.J. Carroll Students Say its OK to be a Nerd

For drug awareness week, W. J. Carroll Intermediate School celebrated one of the Red Ribbon days with the theme of It's ok to be a nerd – Never Ever Rely on Drugs. In no particular order are Dalaney Goldman, Madilynn Ladd, Sage Riel, Devin Cabbagestalk, Kaitlynn Dominick, Na'Khia Totten, Heather Mann, Mary Frohne, Rayvan Jones, Jack Taylor, Jack Huey, Peter Arbaczauskas, Peyton Mann, Grace Forrester, Da'Maya Jemison, Kyler Dusek, Caiden Benson, Stefin Cooper, Camille Prince, Leandra Robertson, Shaniah Shaw, and Lily Dupuis.

State Superintendent of Education Addresses SBCC Membership

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted State Superintendent of Education Tommy Bice, Ph.D. as speaker during a Leadership Series luncheon on Wednesday, September 25 at the Foley Civic Center. Bice addressed the Chamber membership with an informative update on Alabama’s Public School System. The SBCC Leadership Series Presenting Sponsor is Vulcan, Inc., and the Foley High School Student Enrichment Sponsors are Riviera Utilities and BP America. Pictured front center: Foley High School students Ashley Joellenbeck, Logan Lane, Henry Bailey and Jeff Hamilton. Others are (from left): Tracy Roberts, State Board of Education; SBCC Board Chair Christi Koehle; Tom DeBell, Riviera Utilities; Tommy Lee, Vulcan, Inc.; State Superintendent of Education Tommy Bice, Ph.D.; Foley High School Principal Russ Moore; Philip Stiell, BP America; Baldwin County Public Schools Superintendent Alan Lee, Ph.D. ; and Enterprise City Schools Superintendent Jimmy Baker.

B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS

•

AND

C RAFTS • C HORUS

AND

D RAMA

•

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools Bayside Academy Hosts Veterans Day Assembly

On November 11, the Bayside Academy Alumni Association sponsored a Veterans Day assembly, recognizing all those who have served or currently are serving in America’s armed forces. Captain (Dr.) Jason G. Halbert, Bayside Academy’s Armed Forces Service Member of the Year and Bayside graduate of the class of 1995, spoke to students in grades 7-12 in honor of Veterans Day. "Having Captain (Dr.) Halbert back on campus is a reminder of the sacrifices that so many service men and women make in the name of a better world”, explains head of School Peter Huestis. He continued, “We are proud of our alumni and the difference they make, collectively and individually, as good citizens and leaders in every walk of life.” Captain Halbert is a Military Officer in the United States Army Special Operations Command (USASOC). He is currently assigned to the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne). CPT (Dr.) Halbert has over 6 years of service to our Country and has deployed 4 times to Afghanistan. CPT (Dr.) Halbert is an Operational Psychologist who utilizes his training in influence and persuasion in the realms of human intelligence collection, specialized assessment and selection of personnel, and psychological operations. CPT (Dr.) Halbert has a Master’s degree in Applied Psychology, a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, and his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. Pictured, Bayside Academy’s Head of School Peter B. Huestis, Bayside Alumni Association President Randy Niemeyer ’81, Captain Jason Halbert ‘95, Head of Upper School Kristen Ring and Alumni Director Mary Dumas.

Gulf Shores Middle School Career Day

A Career Day for Gulf Shores Middle School students was held in November. Approximately twenty-five career speakers, each representing a different career, participated in this event. The Career Day is one of the school’s pre-career academy events. GSMS is working with Gulf Shores High School to prepare students for Career Academies that are in place at the high school. The Career Academies give students a chance to prepare for and gain experience in careers before leaving high school. This program combines school education, real world experience, and community partners to prepare students to be future leaders. The goal of Gulf Shores Middle School faculty and staff is to give students the opportunity to explore a variety of careers that fit their individual interests before reaching high school.

En C f i pic by

su so C S

Sa to m

re M lab sy pr

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

FEEF to Host Cookies with Santa

ed r

f ”, he alk s ).

i s.

As a way of saying “Happy Holidays” to the community, Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation will host its annual Cookies with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 9 - 10:30 a.m. at Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope. The free event will feature pictures with Santa, holiday entertainment by Fairhope school music groups, cookies and hot cocoa. “This is always a fun way to thank our supporters and bring families together for some simple, holiday cheer,” said Tommie Conaway, chairman of the Cookies with Santa event. While there is no charge for admittance, FEEF will collect donations of canned good to support Ecumenical Ministries’ food pantry. Santa Claus will arrive shortly after 9 a.m. to begin taking pictures with children. For more information, call 990-3333 or visit feefonline.org.

A Lesson in Chicken Wings and Other AMSTI Things

Bay Minette Middle School students recently took part in an AMSTI (Alabama Math, Science and Technology Initiative) lab to study how the skeletal and muscular system of a chicken wing work together to produce movement. Here, Loryn Brown flexes the wing.

KNOW S C

WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF

USPECTED

ONCUSSION

A concussion is an injury caused by a blow to the head in which the brain moves rapidly and may collide with the inside of the skull. Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior.

Any athlete with a suspected concussion: n

Should be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY

Should be urgently assessed medically

Should not be left alone

Should not drive a motor vehicle

ThinkFirst _____________________________________________

Alabama

CONCUSSION CLINIC 205.934.1041 www.Childrens AL.org/concussion IN CASE OF MEDICAL EMERGENCY, CALL 911 OR GO DIRECTLY TO YOUR LOCAL ER

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

County Schools Spanish Fort Elementary Autauga Class Visits Central Christian School Holds Seasons in the Sun Farm Veteran’s Day Program

Ms. C’s “Crew in Training” from Spanish Fort Elementary journeyed down the road to Jimmy Jones’ farm, Seasons in the Sun, on October 22. Mr. Jones, also known as “Mr. Jimmy” to the children, runs the farm with D’Lee Reeves. The couple has turned this “diamond in the rough” into so many opportunities for the community. The produce and dairy products the farm and other farms (working in combination with Seasons in the Sun) are putting on the tables in Baldwin and Mobile County are a positively healthier approach to feeding the family. Mr. Jimmy and Ms. D’Lee are also doing an excellent job of educating not only adults, but children. They handle their field trips with a very interactive opportunity for the children. The majority of our trip Mr. Jimmy talked to us about hydroponic gardening, and showed us how to do it. Part of our life skill program at school is gardening. We are currently in the process of preparing our garden area for hydroponic gardening. Mr. Jimmy has played a big role in advising and helping us gather our materials for this tremendous project. We have learned so much from Mr. Jimmy, and are ready to give it our best effort.

Central Christian School had a special program Monday November 11 in celebration of Veteran's Day. Students were encouraged to invite family members to attend and be honored. The service included special guest speaker Lieutenant Torrey Garrison, chaplain in the US Air Force. Music included “America's Creed” performed by the 4th grade class, “God Bless America” performed by Victoria Parson, and “God Bless the USA” performed by Morgan Franklin and Missy Campbell. Music provided by Seth Janey, Ellie McCully, Becky Shelton, Hannah Shelton, Matt Henson, and Victoria Parson. There was a salute to the veterans in which the 5th grade class presented the branch flags. A reception for the veterans and their families was held following the service. Pictured is Lieutenant Torrey Garrison.

Th an

s in

W Co in

E n

s "B G

a C

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

y s d r e. h a

Two Bayshore Christian School Students Win Public Library Bookmark Contest

The Daphne Public Library recently held its annual â&#x20AC;&#x153;Back to Schoolâ&#x20AC;? bookmark contest for the 2013-2014 school year. Two students from Bayshore Christian School in Fairhope earned ribbons in the contest. Pictured here from left to right are: Will Edmiston, third place and Wes Cochran, first place. Both students are in 6th grade and take art from Mrs. Shelly Hendryx.

Gulf Shores Elementary 4th Grade Book Study

4th grade students at Gulf Shores Elementary School recently completed a novel study of "Because of Winn-Dixie." The students compared the Civil War story of Littmus W. Block from the book "Because of Winn-Dixie" with the story of Gus Bowles, a real man who lived during the Civil War. The students then wrote an essay comparing and contrasting the Civil War experiences of both men using specific examples from both texts. Pictured (l to r) are Anna Stubbs, Kaleb Moseley, and Will Beatson.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga CountyNat’l Schools Wildlife Turkey Federation Visits Rockwell Elementary

Recently at Rockwell Elementary School, third grade students were treated to a special visit from representatives from the National Wildlife Turkey Federation. Mr. Jamie Lyles and Mr. Jackson Woodson talked to the third grade about turkeys. Their habitat, life cycle, and many other interesting facts were discussed. The highlight of the visit was listening to several different turkey calls and learning what they mean. It was a "Gobbling Good Time!"

Fairhope Middle School Students Take Trip to NYC

Several Fairhope Middle School 8th grade students from the Family and Consumer Science classes participated in a field trip to New York City over the Veterans Day weekend. Under the supervision of Mrs. Cyndie Wilkins, FACS teacher, the group visited the Statue of Liberty and the 911 memorial, experienced the view of the city from the top of the Empire State building, toured Parson’s School of Design, a designer jewelry factory, and a museum exhibit, and participated in a Phantom of the Opera make-up artist session. Pictured, with Wilkins in Central Park, are the following students: standing, from left to right, Grace Davis, Anna Claire Noblitt, Anna Bailey, Kathryn Thompson, Angel Allen, Wilkins, Madison Estes, Virginia Witherington, Sadie Fowler, Caroline Toombs, and Mackenzie Early; kneeling, from left to right, Catherine Donald, Kirsten Fasanello, Katie Shores, Lauren Brown, Carson Herndon, Olivia Austill, and Maddie Teufel.

p M C

je Ric of

th Op a Sq Tra E th

We will explore faith and friendship, engage in fireside stories, field games, challenge course activities, arts and crafts, praise and worship and much more! Junior High: 6-8th grades | Dec. 27-28th Senior High: 9-12th grades | Dec. 29-30th Young Adults: 18-30 yrs. | Dec. 31st –Jan.1st

*Overnight is optional for Young Adults. Must be a high school graduate.

NO CHARGE!

w p ne

There is no cost for this event! Each session begins at 11am and ends at 3pm.

R R K

Space is limited so register now!

www.beckwithal.com

Do you have questions? James Lawrence

Diocesan Youth Coordinator & Summer Camp Director -2162 james@beckwithal.com (251) 616

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

Enjoy the holidays... look forward to summer!

Season Passes!

THE PERFECT STOCKING STUFFER!

ere l

, e ls "

SONASON SEA SE S PASPASS

Year-End Baldwin County H.S. Students Visit New York Four students from Baldwin County High School recently visited New York as part of a fashion and food tour. The Bay Minette group, led by BCHS Family and Consumer Sciences teacher Karen Sims, was part of a delegation from Spanish Fort high and Fairhope middle schools. While in New York, the students attended the Broadway play “Wicked”, enjoyed dinner at Carmine's, Puglio and Eataly, Mario Batali's restaurant. They also visited Parson’s School of Design, a costume jewelry warehouse and met with designer Richard Mesich. Mesich shared his portfolio of drawings and designs. The student took part in a make-up demonstration from the artists involved with “Phantom of the Opera”. The trip to New York also included a tour of local landmarks including Times Square, Statue of Liberty, Tiffany's, World Trade Center Memorial, Rockefeller Center, Empire State Building, Central Park and the tenements. Sims said the trip to New York was “fabulous” and educational. “The students were able to experience so many exciting places that they had only read about or seen on television. It was educational and fun. The students that I took were model students and I was so proud of their lovely manners in public places. I hope to take them again next year as well as offer the trip to other students that I am teaching this year.” Representing BCHS included, from left, Rebecca Lankford, D’Natia Kennedy, Karen Sims, Claire Stewart and Mary Hannah Stewart.

SPECIAL!

Individual S

115

Call and make someone very happy this Christmas!

251.948.2106

Purchase your 2014 Season Passes by December 31, 2013 and save!

Additional Family Member, $100**

Family of 4 * S

325

Parties are better at the House of Bounce-

YEAR-ROUND!

Perfect for parties and special events!

Call today to reserve your party in the new headquarters for kids on the Gulf Coast!

Offers end 12/31/13. *Family passes are good for husband/wife/kids only. Cannot purchase a family pass with friends and their children. Additional family member passes are good for spouse and children only. **Price is per person. You may add up to 5 additional people once you have purchased a family pass. 10% sales tax is included in season pass prices.

906 Gulf Shores Pkwy • Gulf Shores, AL • 251.948.2106 (Hwy 59 S.)

watervilleusa.com

Send School News and photos by the 8th of each month to: lynn@ easternshoreparents.com. It’s FREE! 35

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

THE ONLY LILâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

CRITTER

THAT SHOULD BE CRAWLING ON YOUR FLOORS.

Silverhill Elementary School Teachers Learn CPR

Teachers and staff at Silverhill Elementary School recently participated in the American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR AED Program. Carman Godfrey, registered nurse, volunteered her time to lead the class. Pictured in no particular order are Carman Godfrey, Teresa Ramey, Barbara Thompson, Gay Harris, VonGretchen Wingfield, Linda Loper and Mary Claire Sharp.

Newton Elementary Top Sellers in Fundraiser Ride in Limo to Pizza Party

The J. Larry Newton Elementary School PTO held a cookie dough fundraiser this fall, and the 60 top sellers were able to enjoy a Hummer limo ride to Rotoloâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pizzeria for a pizza party on Nov. 7. Pictured left to right are: Thomas Seay, Makayla Bosby, Kaya Honea, Weston Harris and Bradley Huber. Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

o r y,

l s o

y, on

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga CountyMiddle SchoolsSchool Rewards Readers Elberta with Painting Party

At Elberta Middle School each quarter the students receive a reading goal. At the end of first quarter students who met their goals were invited to a painting party. Students chose what they wanted to paint, received painting instruction, and were let loose on their very own canvases. The students created beautiful paintings for their rooms, house, or even gifts for loved ones. This was a very special day and everyone who earned their seat at the party had a blast!

Fairhope H.S. Law Class Goes to Court

Recently, Fairhope High School's Law Class, taught by Kristie Davis, had the opportunity to travel to Bay Minette and see the judicial system at work. The class observed a workman's compensation civil case and a theft criminal case. They also had the opportunity to see a few Baldwin County inmates give their pleas and receive their sentence. Pictured Mairanny Torres, Willa Gates, Caroline Clinton, Chloe Cotton, Parker Hodges, Martha Fowler, Alexandra Brock, ShawnaRaye Robinson, Kaileigh Smith, Nikki Ordonez, Tyler Swafford, Sarah Flechas, Brooke Miller, Dayna Fincher, Emily Cook, Joelye Davis, Katie White, Savannah Shuey, Abby Hamilton, Michelle Fasanello, Courtney Ward, Morgan Leiser, Shane Vandegrift.

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

S t J

c w "ti W

d ts

SkillsUSA Officers Elected at North Baldwin Center for Technology

North Baldwin Center for Technology recently selected officers for SkillsUSA, a career and technical student organization (CTSO) for high school and college students enrolled in training programs. Those programs include technical, skilled, and service occupations, including health and the following trades: carpentry, cosmetology, HVAC, welding, and automotive. The officers at NBCT include: Jonathan Moore, BCHS, President; Vincent Lambeth, BCHS, Vice-President; Dillion Collins, BCHS, Treasurer; Kayla Waite, BCHS, Secretary; Diâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Angela Pope, Reporter; Michael Turnipseed, SFHS, Historian; and Parliamentarian Tim Simpson, BCHS. The alternates for SkillsUSA officers are BCHS students Kate Harrison, Ryan Dykes, Jared Gill, Gregory Pritchett, Jarrad Long and DHS student, Louis Alidor. Sponsors for SkillsUSA include instructors Scott Larson, Carpentry; Vicki DeFee, Cosmetology; Chad Powell, Welding; Chad Eubanks, HVACR, and Anthony Schuler, Automotive. Pictured, SkillsUSA officers include, from left, seated, Tim Simpson, Parliamentarian; Jonathan Moore, President; Michael Turnipseed, Historian; seated l. to r. are Greg Pritchett, Alt. Secretary and DiAngela Pope, Reporter (not shown are Dillon Collins, Treasurer and Kayla Waite, Secretary).

Foley Intermediate School Students Study Ancient Civilization

Students at Foley Intermediate School share their personal "time lines" as they begin their study of Ancient Civilizations in their art classes for this school year. Art teacher Jean Moreno introduced the curriculum by showing students a time line of Art History which began 20,000 years ago with man's first art found on cave walls. Prehistoric cave art, the artistic achievements of Egypt, Greece and Rome will be highlighted, as well as selections from contemporary artists. 5th and 6th grade artists representing the "time" wall are: (Left to right back row): Asia Purdie, Belle Rea; Michele Ly, Jared Wilson, Abby Shoemaker and Sarah Finch. Front row: Lanessa Tomlin and Kylie Wright "Having the Time of Their Lives at Foley Intermediate".

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools Cowboy Day at Bayside

The Kindergarten classes at Bayside Academy recently donned their boots, chaps and hats for the annual “Cowboy Day,” where they moseyed on down to May Day Park to learn how to rope a calf and ride a horse, from a real cowboy! They grilled hotdogs and even went down to the bay to pan for gold. Yee haw! Pictured (l-r): Kindergartners Matthew Peterson, Jack Thompson, Ryan Hankins, Forrest Smith, Boyce Magli and Colby Hoffman.

Daphne Elementary Students Run for Super E!

“Run for Super E!” was held at Daphne Elementary School on Friday, October 25th. This event was led by Cole Wilson, Red Ribbon Leader for the 2013-14 school year. As a part of his responsibilities as Red Ribbon Leader, Cole was required to come up with a community service project. He decided to lead an event that would raise money for his former classmate, friend and DES student Eli Deese. Eli was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) this past January. This event was a unique idea because it combined a school-wide service project with a fitness event. Additionally, this event highlighted leadership and provided a character education opportunity for all of our students as they worked together to help raise needed funds for Eli’s medical expenses associated with ALL. Great job Cole and GET WELL wishes to our beloved Eli Deese.

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

ed e, e w e

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools

SPCS Student Council 2013-14

St. Patrick Catholic School in Robertsdale introduced the Student Council for 2013-14. Leadership duties include meeting with the Principal and teachers, listening to students, and helping to make SPCS a “Community of Faith, Knowledge and Service”, the theme for this year’s Catholic Schools Week. Pictured are (L to R) Xavier Allen, Matthew Tompkins, Rebekah LaConsay, Llyod LaConsay, Sr. Margaret Harte, Thomas Olsen, Miranda Desmond, Lauren Harvison, and Hannah Gay.

Pep Rally Held to Honor Senior Football Players at Spanish Fort H.S.

Senior football players were honored at a special pep rally in the Spanish Fort High School gym. It's tradition at SFHS for the senior moms to dress in their son's jerseys and perform a comedic dance/skit for the team. Everyone participated as part of the fun and a great way to honor our seniors, who put so much time, effort, and heart onto the football field. Congratulations to all of our seniors at SFHS.

251-463-8420

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

or n, r.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga CountyCompass Schools Learning Classroom Hero at Robertsdale Elementary

Robertsdale Elementary School sixth grade teacher Paula Buettner has been named a Compass Learning Classroom Hero for her commitment to the use of technology to provide students a unique and personalized learning experience, not only in her classroom but throughout the grade level. The innovative and tech-savvy teacher was nominated for the prestigious award by fellow teacher Jennifer Earp who lauded “Ms. Buettner’s willingness to make learning easy and fun.” As part of the recognition, she is receiving a $50 gift card for classroom supplies from Compass Learning and a certificate of achievement. Ms. Buettner is pictured with students from her homeroom.

Grandparents Day at CKCS

Christ the King Catholic School eighth grader, Jadyn Domning, dances with her grandfather, Benard Domning, during Grandparent's Day festivities at the school on Friday, Oct. 25. CKCS welcomed grandparents from near and far for a morning of entertainment provided by the students and a courtyard reception. The traditional eighth grade student and grandparent dance concludes the program each year.

Ba in

Th k

Ex C

W &

Shane Langley, DMD, MS | Mike McDuffie, DMD | Rick O’Neil, DMD, MS www.southalabamaorthodontics.com

We are a Christ-centered, patient-focused, orthodontic practice. We are committed to providing the highest quality patient care in a manner that glorifies God and in an atmosphere that is upbeat, unpredictable and, shall we say, unique. We hope that you will consider us for your orthodontic needs.

Eastern I December 2013 SAO 001Shore Parents Parents 1-2page Hor.indd 1

www.easternshoreparents.com 10/28/13 9:19 AM

ner

om AM

Baldwin County Education Coalition’s First Major Fundraiser Raises Over $25,000

Baldwin County Sewer Service is very pleased to announce that the Inaugural Baldwin County Education Coalition Golf Classic brought in over $25,000, directly benefiting the Coalition to support all Baldwin County Schools. It was a huge success, as the tournament sold out and everyone had a fantastic time. Jenny Williams of BCSS declared, “We look forward to our continuous partnership with the Coalition and Baldwin County schools in repeating this fundraiser for many years to come!” The event kicked off with a delicious BBQ lunch, complete with salad and desserts, as players registered and purchased their "survivor kits" which included mulligans and red tee busters. Players purchased golf balls that gave them the possibility of winning cash which split the total donations between the winning player and the Coalition. Following lunch and registration, Event Chairman Commissioner Tucker Dorsey thanked everyone, and Mrs. Alabama Tara Hooper dropped about 100 purchased golf balls from a bucket truck. Ball #5 went straight into the hole and its owner, a Wind Creek Casino team member, won $250. Fortunately, it was a gorgeous day, with a low chance of rain, and even though it was rather hot, Bud Busch Distributing provided plenty of cold beverages on the course. Players also enjoyed fun games throughout the tournament, such as putting around a toilet bowl on one hole, and closest to the pin on another hole. Other contests included chances to win hole-inone prizes like a Yamaha Golf Cart or a Robalo boat, courtesy of Sportsman’s Marine. After the golf concluded late that afternoon, everyone gathered back in the Clubhouse for Rock Creek chef’s delectable, complimentary seafood gumbo, bread pudding and beverages. While awards were announced, door prizes were collected and final speeches were presented by Baldwin County School Superintendent, Dr. Alan Lee and Baldwin County Education Coalition Executive Director, Terry Burkle. The top winners were as follows: 1st place- Wind Creek Casino/ PCI Gaming, 2nd- Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, 3rd- Baldwin EMC and 4th- Morgan's Ice. Thank you to everyone who participated in this memorable event, especially our sponsors! Title Sponsor: Baldwin County Sewer Service, LLC. Luncheon Sponsors: Baldwin EMC and J.H. Wright and Associates, Inc. Corporate Sponsors: Preble Rish, Trustmark Bank, Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, Vulcan, Truland Homes, Sweat Tire, Vellano Corporation, SS Nesbitt, Precision IBC, IberiaBank, Austal USA and Quincy Compressor. For more information on the Baldwin County Education Coalition, visit betterbaldwin.com. To inquire about and register for next year's tournament, contact Jenny Williams at (251) 971-1516 or jenny@baldwincountysewer.com.

Holidays y p p a H FOR A FAMILY FUN ADVENTURE VISIT THE GULF COAST’’’S PREMIER WALKING, BIKING & BOULDER PARK

S. BRANYO GH N

backcountrytrail.com Orange Beach, AL | 251.981.1180 45

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools Spanish Fort Middle School Volleyball Team Wins County Championship

The Spanish Fort Middle School Volleyball Team recently won the county championship to make it four consecutive years to claim the top prize. They went 20-1 in the regular season and undefeated in the tournament. The Lady Toros defeated Bay Minette, Central Baldwin, and Gulf Shores to advance to the championship game where they defeated Foley in straight sets 17-25 and 21-25. Sabian Sasser, Savannah Shabel, and Keila Adams were named to the All-County team; while Keila was named the tournament MVP. The winning team includes, top row, from left: Sabian Sasser, Claire Uhle, Kayleigh Koch, Reilly Vought, Morgan Murray, Lauren Harris, Carissa Jones, Baylee Carlisle, Abigail Davis, Emme Fisher, and Coach Leigh Jones. Front row: Lora Ashley Morris, Keila Adams, Taylor Fontenelle, Kelliann Donovan, and Savannah Shabel.

Robertsdale Elementary Elects Officers for National Honor Society

Robertsdale Elementary School is pleased to announce the election of officers for the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Elementary Honor Society. A fine slate of candidates campaigned to lead the chapter (dubbed the Golden Cubs) and the choice of whom to vote for was a very tough one for the members. Pictured in order from left to right are the first-ever officers of the recently formed honor society chapter: Treasurer Grant Driver, Vice-President Gillian Langham, President Camryn Lowery, and Secretary Maggie Moore.

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

ey dy to nd he g h s, es.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools Fairhope High School Senior Accepts Swim Scholarship

Standout swimmer Olivia Hudson signed with Colorado Mesa University Wednesday, Nov. 20th in the Fairhope High School Library. Friends and family attended her as she made her commitment to swim competitively at the collegiate level. Pictured L to R: Seated: Rick Hudson, Olivia Hudson, Cathy Hudson (mother and Fairhope High School swim coach); Standing: Coaches Tim Reddy, Rich Suhs, and Terry Martin.

Send School News and photos by the 8th of each month to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com. It’s FREE!

Gulf Shores Elementary Students Design Floor Plan for Habitat for Humanity House

As part of Gulf Shores Elementary School 4th grade's Project-Based Learning unit "How Can We Build a Better Community?", Mrs. Laura Blackburn's class is using their knowledge about area and perimeter to create a floor plan. Using the Google App, Floor Planner, the students will design a floor plan for a Habitat for Humanity house. Students pictured clockwise from left are: Taylor Roberts, Samuel Johns, Philip Heaton, Joshua Wiik, Hannah Ryan, and Gabriel Barros.

Bayshore Student Wins Optimist Club Art Contest

Riley Chapman won the grand prize for the Eastern Shore Optimist Club “Be Kind to Animals” art contest. Pictured are Rep. Davis and Riley Chapman.

Career Horizon Expo a Big Success at Baldwin County High

Students at Baldwin County High School had the opportunity to learn about more than 30 different career and education paths as part of the Career Horizons Expo recently held on campus. The third annual event was sponsored by the Young Professionals of the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce. Ashley Jones, NBCC Marketing and Project Manager, said the feedback was very positive, both from the students and the participants. “We had an amazing response from vendors this year, there were 37 vendors setup at this year’s event representing everything from technical schools, junior colleges and four year universities to lawyers, accountants, welders and the aerospace and shipbuilding industries.” The Expo has grown each year, Jones said, and provides students the opportunity to explore different places to land after high school. “Watching the students engage with different professionals that represent a career path that interests them is always amazing to see; they ask questions, they talk about why they want to pursue a certain path and you see them gain insight that they may not have had before,” Jones said. Upon entering the Expo, students were provided a “passport” to be stamped at the various vendor booths and once it was full, the students dropped the passport into a bowl for a chance to win a Galaxy Tablet. That winning student was BCHS senior Josie Golden. For more information about the Career Horizon Expo, or the Young Professionals organization, contact the Chamber of Commerce at 251-937-5665. Pictured, Baldwin County High School students Kyle Phillips, Chandler Roley and Dalton Jerkins, from left, learn more about the accounting field from Nick Gee with Robertson, Andreoli & Covington, P.C. The firm was just one of 37 vendor booths taking part in the third annual Career Horizon Expo, sponsored by the Young Professionals of the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce. Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

i 3 s ha

pa Li

Spanish Fort High Marching Band Earns Superior and Best in Class at Competitions

Congratulations to the Spanish Fort High School Marching Band for all of their "Fall Accomplishments"…. Hattiesburg/Oak Grove Marching Contest: All Superior – Drum Major, Feature Twirler, Dance Team, Color Guard, Percussion, and Band. Best in Class: Feature Twirler, Dance Team, Color Guard, Percussion, and Band. White Sands Marching Contest: All Superior – Drum Major, Feature Twirler, Dance Team, Color Guard, Percussion, and Band. Best in Class Dance Team.

v. r

Fairhope Middle School Students Take A Plank Challenge

Margaret Gambino’s homeroom class at Fairhope Middle School is embracing Matt Cutt’s philosophy of “Doing something new for 30 days.” The students are taking the 30 day “plank challenge” to strengthen their core muscles and build a healthy new habit while having fun. The plank is an isometric strength exercise that involves maintaining a difficult position for extended periods of time. The most common plank is the front plank which is held in a push-up position with the body’s weight borne on forearms, elbows, and toes. The students’ challenge began with holding the position for 20 seconds and working up to several minutes. Pictured, in no particular order, are members of Gambino’s homeroom class: Austin Linton, Smith Hendricks, Jaime Prine, Coby McCool, JT Williams, Jayden Hicks, Austin Glines, Kai Morales, Colin Millar, Sam Jaquess, Evan Wright, Andrew Yarbough, Arthur Howard, and Austin Reynolds.

d nts r,

g th k ht

he he

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools Junior Auxiliary of the Eastern Shore Awards Crown of Character to W.J. Carroll and Fairhope Intermediate Students

Each quarter, JAES will recognize 2 students from each 5th Grade class at Fairhope Intermediate School and W.J. Carroll who exemplifies one or more of the qualities found in the 5 points of the Junior Auxiliary Crown: Charity, Youth, Health, Leadership and Service. These 5th graders have been awarded the Crown of Character award for the First Quarter. Congratulations! Thank you to our gold level sponsors: Bay Pediatric, Chick-fil-A, Coastal Neurological Institute, Restoration Health, Terry Thompson, and Thomas Hospital. From Fairhope Intermediate School (pictured, left): Front Row (L to R): Will Middleton, Marshall Latture, Ashton Harris, Linda Ables, Logan Vandevender, Caleb Henn, Louis Villanova, and Drew Willis. Back Row (L to R): Emelie Wood, Jaylin Bracy, Angelina Cheung, Mallory Sears, Davis Hopper, Kendel Lee Frazer, Matthew McClure, Kennedy Simmons, Emma Williams, and Ada Cummings. From W.J. Carroll (pictured, right): Front Row (L to R): Casey McNichol, Ashton Strickland, Reece Springs, Ethan Sikes, Jacob Robb. Back Row (L to R): Jack Taylor, Bella Lochrico, Tyler Harvey, Elizabeth Burt, Andrea Salinas-Valero.

E La

S Th T E

c p

g Fl

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

ss ne y

rst

tal

Bayside Academy Homecoming

Bayside Academy held its Homecoming on November 1. Haley Heebe was crowned Homecoming queen. The following girls comprised the Homecoming court: 9th grade maid – Downie Radcliff; 10th grade maid – Megan McCrory; 11th grade maid – Isabella Donnell; 12th grade maid – Trista Barry, Emelyn Boan, Jhalen Caffey, Carlisle Calametti, Sydney Chandler, Ashley Christenson, Maggie Cooper, Mary Cameron Dees, Morgan Dulaney, Emery Frick, Abbey Giles, Raegan Grant, Sandi Grice, Katherine Ham, Ann Bradford Hansen, Brittany Houseman, Valerie Johnson, Anabel Jones, Olivia Kercher, Isabel Leatherbury, Maddi Little, Madison Matthews, Harper Morrison, Emily Pace, Rebeckah Roe, Bowen Spottswood, Kelleen Sullivan, Keeley Terrell, Lauren Teumer, Rebecca Todd, Grace Turner, Suzanne Weller and Helen Wison. Not pictured: Downie Radcliff, Sydney Chandler, Ashley Christenson, Abbey Giles.

Gulf Shores Middle Cheerleaders at Auburn

The GSMS cheerleaders attended the Halftime Extravaganza at Auburn University Saturday, October 26th. The coaches and cheerleaders greatly enjoyed the experience! The cheerleaders performed a dance on the field with other middle school cheer squads. The Halftime Extravaganza was special event hosted by Auburn University. The GSMS cheerleaders performed at the football game against Florida Atlantic at Jordan-Hare Stadium, and the event aired on ESP3, ESGP, FSN.

Silverhill Elementary Students of the Month

Silverhill Elementary School’s November students of the month are being recognized for their Patriotism. Listed in no particular order are, Kyndall Ladd, Bryan Capiz, Kayleigh Osborn, Terance Howard, Gavin Patterson, Alexander Oliver, Samuel Glassford, Melody Graves, Matthew Sanders, Nathan Weaver, Robert Sturma, Nicholas Tindal, Kierston Paul, Hunter Maxberry, Jabin Johnston, Francisco Aparicio, Kristen Kaylor, Kailey Mooney, David Strack, Holly Wilson and Michael Burdine. Not pictured, Drew Wilkerson.

Corpus Christi Catholic School's 2nd Annual Cougars Running Wild 5k and Fun Run

On Saturday, Dec. 14th, Corpus Christi Catholic School's Booster Club will host their 2nd Annual Cougars Running Wild 5k and Fun Run. The 5k race will be held at the newly built Pavilion at Medal of Honor Park at 3 p.m. This year, the race is teaming up with the Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation to promote giving back to the local community by providing toys to the children in our area. The 5k starts at 3:00 p.m. and the Fun Run will begin at 4:00 p.m. The race is open to walkers and runners of all ages. T-shirts for all runners are guaranteed until Dec. 5th. The fun, family atmosphere will include food, beverages, music and of course great door prizes! Awards will be given out to top performers in all age groups. A Team Award of $100 will be donated to the school/ company with the most runners. Bring an unwrapped, new children's toy for Toys for Tots on race day and receive an extra door prize ticket. Registration is available online at www.eventbrite.com or on-site at Run-N-Tri and McCoy Outdoors.

Fairhope Elementary Plays with Bears in Math!

Fairhope Elementary students from Mrs. Angel Rhodes’ class are having so much fun making a one-to-one correspondence chart in math using counting bears!

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools Christ the King Catholic School Red Ribbon Pennant Winner

Christ the King Catholic School second graders, from left, Kendall Gorum, Carson Joyner, Stephen Morisani, Annie Baggett, and their teacher, Mrs. Sarah Marzella, stand in front of the winning classroom door on Thursday, Oct. 30. The second grade classroom took home the prize for the best pennant in our Red Ribbon Door Pennant contest. Their theme was "Slam Dunk Drugs Are Junk!"

13 du

Elberta Middle School Class Learns Welding

ply wit are the ad in t ab axi littl

Students in the Elberta Middle School Career Technologies class gain skills in sheet metal fabrication and welding. The completed project is a metal toolbox students take home.

St. Patrick Catholic School Teachers Receive Starlight Grant

Baldwin County EMC's "Project Round Up" presented Kris Pierce, Kindergarten Teacher at St. Patrick Catholic School with a 2013 Star Light Award. This $900 award was presented for a project title "Rhyme Time with Dr. Seuss". The project will allow students in grades K4-2nd grade to take part in a week of delightful activities to promote a love of reading. Pictured with the students

are Sr. Margaret Harte, Betty Mullek, Paige Griffin, Raymond Gates, Caren Davis, Karen Moore, and Kris Pierce. Congratulations to Natasha Pratt, 3rd grade teacher at St. Patrick School in Robertsdale. She was awarded EMC's Starlight Grant in the amount of $1000. The grant money will be used on a schoolwide project focusing on Colonial America. Students will participate in research, period games, crafts, and learn about day to day living in the pre-Revolutionary era through presentations and hands-on activities. Pictured with the 3rd grade students are Raymond Gates, Paige Griffin, Karen Moore, Caren Davis, Betty Mullek, Natasha Pratt, and Sr. Margaret Harte. Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

pe da pu infl som tha or pe ad ag in t

erc

m, ,

e, 3 t ts

Q. What are some good ways to teach a

13-year-old kid about giving versus getting during the holiday season?

A. One of the best things you can do is sim-

ply talk about it—a lot. Kids are bombarded with messages about how important they are, and how they should always have what they want. It’s okay to have some stuff, but advertising and other marketing messages in today’s culture can make them think it’s all about them. It can lead kids to believe the axis of the world runs through the tops of their little heads. Think about this. In 1971, the average person saw 564 advertising impressions a day. Now, that number is about 4,000. The purpose of advertising is to disturb and influence you to the point that you’ll buy something. Advertisers want you to believe that you’re not complete without their product, or that you’ll be a happier, cooler, better person with their product. And in most cases, advertising and marketing people are more aggressive in their teaching than parents are in theirs. My suggestion is to find some giving exercises in which you can all participate. You

could adopt a single mom at your church. Make it a family outing, and go buy groceries, gifts for her kids or even a Christmas tree. Make sure your kids are involved physically, mentally and emotionally in the entire giving process. Let them experience the grateful, and sometimes ungrateful, responses that go along with giving. And make sure you do some things that don’t involve money. You could take the entire family to help cook and serve dinner at a homeless shelter. One of the best things we ever did as parents with our teenagers was to send them on mission trips. It truly changed their lives. When you see real poverty close up, when you live and walk and sleep in it day after day—I’m talking about death-anddisease poverty, not the American version—it changes your heart. And when you’re 13, it will change your life forever.

Q. We’ve been supporting our son while

he’s in college. He just finished his sophomore year, but he told us the other day he has dropped out of school and isn’t going back. He’s been playing in a band on weekends, and he has this vague idea of becoming a musician. We don’t think this is a

good idea, but we still want to be supportive … just not too supportive. We want him to be financially independent, as well. How should we handle this?

A. This kid is about to have some problems. Not only has he made a bad decision, but he should have consulted with you guys before he quit school. He owed you that much if you were supporting him this whole time. In my opinion, you and your husband have one job right now. That job is to stand back and let life happen to this kid. If he thinks he’s a man, let him go out and prove it. Wish him the best and tell him you hope he becomes the rich and famous rock star he wants to be. But make sure he understands you’re not going to support him financially when he’s doing something you both feel is a bad idea. The First National Bank of Mom and Dad is officially closed! Let him know how much you both love him and that you’ll be praying for him. However, as far as paying for his rent, utilities, gas, food and cell phone bill? That stuff’s not happening. In the end, let him know you’ll be there to help just like before if he wises up and decides to finish school.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

yo an wi ex thr an yo

bre on aw

se it, tod se

be res fus co ior tod tim the yo or Le

We’ve all faced those moments.. demands, pleading, whining, raised voices, crying, screaming, and other manners of lashing out. These are examples of how toddlers misbehave, sometimes in public.

dence and mastery over their world. Developmentally this is what toddlers should be doing. However, it is during this stage that parents should be helping their young ones understand that they are still in control. Parents should also be teaching their children about what they expect in public by expecting it at home, which is the ideal training ground. What options does a parent have in handling private matters in public? What tools does a parent have at her disposal to deal with situations that can be akin to dry kindling being lit by a match and fanned by the wind? What’s a parent to do? And what should a parent avoid doing?

These moments often seem to occur when a parent is depleted or harried, and not in her best mindset. And even if a parent is, a toddler melting down in public can quickly take her to a place she’d rather not be--discomfort and embarrassment. Children in the toddler ages are in the “I want it” stage, seeking indepen-

take stock before you go. Is your child tired, hungry or uncomfortable? If the answer is “yes,” rethink. You are setting your child and you up for a less than stellar public experience. If you feel you need to go out and take your child with you, try to make sure he

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

has had a nap or is rested, and make sure he’s had something to eat and drink.

En fee yo pin be tod ov lou ma

have the “magic” bag with you, or a large purse. Those diaper bags come in handy long after your kids are out of diapers. Diaper bags hold a myriad of wonderful items, from sippy cups and snacks to wipes and an array of toys that distract. Take advantage of the magic bag, and occasionally replenish it.

un wil yo tas rew ac es

go over expectations and practice when opportunities present themselves at home. Review what behavior you want to see in your child before going out. Ask your child to repeat what you told them, i.e. “We are getting cat food for Sassy only.” This way you both know your toddler heard and understood you.

be clear and follow through. Expectations are most effective when www.easternshoreparents.com

pe are pe be

Jud equ and thro tion

m an -

you are consistent with your message and with its delivery. You must be clear with your follow through as well. For example, if you tell your toddler, “If you throw a fit, we will not go to the park,” and your child does have a meltdown, you do not go to the park.

remember to take DEEP breaths. Are you tired, hungry or short on patience? If you must go out be aware of how you are feeling. Remember that your emotions only serve to fuel your toddler. He can smell it, and he reacts to it. If you trigger, your toddler will also react. A child learns his self-regulation through parental regulation.

Reserve Your Private Holiday Party Today!

respond quickly if your child begins to meltdown. The quicker you respond the better. Toddlers have short fuses. Sometimes a child can regain his composure if you address his behavior immediately. This works well with a toddler who regularly behaves. Other times, a child may be determined to win the challenge, for whatever reason. If your child becomes more manipulative or implodes, vacate, calmly. Shopping? Leave the cart.

DON’T

ignore your toddler. Engage him and be attuned to how he is feeling in public. Your engagement with your child can go a long way to stopping a tantrum before it even begins because he has your attention. Is your toddler calm or does he appear to be overwhelmed by his surroundings (think loud, bright big box store or a shopping mall)?

DON’T reward your child for

undesirable behavior or bribe him if he will stop. Negotiating and bribing allows your little one to savor the first sweet tastes of successful manipulation. A reward of this nature only encourages a child to misbehave again, possibly escalate.

Available Online Santa visits Causeway 12/17, 6-8 pm Kids Eat Free on Tuesdays Mobile Causeway • 3733 Battleship Pkwy • 251.626.2188 Gulf Shores • Original Oyster House Boardwalk • 251.948.2445 www.originaloysterhouse.com

DON’T

worry about other people surrounding you. Many of them are parents and have had similar experiences. Focus on your child and his behavior.

Judy M. Miller works with pre- and adoptive parents, equipping them with new techniques and information and encouraging and empowering adoptive families through difficult times. She is the author of the international selling What To Expect From Your Adopted Tween.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Hosting a Clothing Swap Okay, we all know that Southern ladies love a good get together with our favorite gal pals. Add some food, clothes, and of course, your favorite iced tea, and you have a clothing swap party! Even those of us with the most fullystocked closets and dressers have mornings where we look through our outfits and just sigh, “I have nothing to wear.” Yet, life often keeps you too busy to shop... whether juggling kids, husband, and work or you just hate shopping in those big department stores. However, you love your friend’s styles and you need a girl’s night out, so why not combine the two? Right after Christmas is a perfect time to add fresh new pieces to your wardrobe and get rid of some old items you don’t want in your closet. A clothing swap party will accomplish both! Here’s what you need to know to make your party a success:

1-Friends Include all friends, shapes and sizes... even pregnant friends who might be looking for slightly bigger sizes for their growing bellies. I would also add accessories to the mix (like gently worn shoes, handbags, jewelry, scarves and unopened Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

beauty products). This will ensure that everyone, regardless of size, can find something that fits.

2-Play hostess You’re putting together a party, so make it feel like one. Give people plenty of notice and send out actual invitations (even if they’re electronic) instead of doing wordof-mouth. Make sure you have food and drinks available. There is nothing like a bunch of girlfriends having fun with food and clothes!

3-Get organized A huge pile of clothes on the bed, stacks of shoes in the corner, and a jumble of necklaces on the dresser aren’t doing anyone any favors. Set up different shopping areas. Use a bar or rack for hanging dresses, a table for folded t-shirts and sweaters, a peg board to hang jewelry, and a long space (like a hallway) to keep those shoes in line, with plenty of mirrors throughout. Whether you want to organize by occasion, work wear, formal, casual, color, size, or designer, just pick a format that makes sense to your friends and go with it.

4-Set some ground rules Items should be clean, dry cleaned if necessary, and in good condition, without holes, rips or stains. Items can be name brand or non-name brand, new with tags, or six months old with no tags. Make sure everyone is aware that there is no price 56

range, so it’s up to them if they want to bring items they might have paid a little more money for. The point of the party is to save money and be creative with your style. Just be ready to part with your items with no complaints.

6-Consider inviting a stylist If you can, find someone who knows how to style and piece articles of clothing together and invite them to the swap (like Yours Truly). They can help in styling certain items you might be struggling with. This can make the actual swap flow more easily. And you might want to have your friends bring specific articles of clothing they love but struggle with styling or understanding how to wear. The person in charge of the styling can help incorporate articles of clothing or accessories brought to the party with a friend’s particular style.

7-Leftovers After you have had a successful night with your gal pals, if you end up having a few clothes left over, donate them or visit your local consignment store to see if they would be interested in any of them. Take your friends with you and enjoy being creative in shopping for those pre-loved clothes. This saves you money, as well as time shopping in big department stores.

Laura Handey is an independent clothing consultant in Pike Road, Alabama. You may reach her by email at laura@ centsiblysouthern. com or visit her website at www. centsiblysouthern. com.

www.easternshoreparents.com

g th. e

in te ht e.

a t ey

, ay ail

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

by Pam Molnar

4. The Balloon Game:

Write down funny actions, tasks or riddles on slips of paper. Roll up and insert into balloons. You will need two balloons for each person as you need to tie one to each person’s ankles. On go, everyone tries to stomp and pop a balloon. If your balloon is popped, you have to read the riddle, do the task or perform the funny action. This game is guaranteed to keep everyone hopping!

5. The Silent Snowman:

This is a game that goes on all night. Make a snowman out of paper or felt. Attach two sided tape or removable adhesive putty on the back of the snowman. One person starts out with the snowman on his back. As the night goes on, someone tries to steal the snowman and put it on their own back. The person left wearing the snowman at midnight gets a prize.

Are you including the kids in your New Year’s celebration this year? For most of us, that means we bring the kids to the party, but send them off to play with their friends while we mingle with ours. It’s like having two separate parties under the same roof. This year, bring the two parties together with laughter and entertainment for all ages. These eight family-friendly games will help you get it started.

6. Auld Lang Syne Scrabble:

1. Tablet:

Write the words to this popular New Year’s Eve song on separate index cards. (You will need two sets). Break your guests into two teams. On go, ask the teams to put the words in the correct order. The first one to get it correct wins. For a real challenge, do both verses. For a variation, use the words to a current top 40 song that the kids know.

Like Telephone, but for today’s world. Write down an object and an action (like a monkey climbing a tree) on an index card. Using a dry erase board, the first person picks a card and draws a picture based on what he reads. He then shows the picture to the person next to him without letting anyone else see the picture. That person will erase the board and write what he thinks was drawn. He will then pass it to the third person who will draw what he reads. This continues around the circle until it gets back to the first person.

7. Line up Blind:

Break your group into teams. Blindfold one of the teams and have them stand in the middle of the room. Now, ask the team to line themselves up in order – alphabetically, by height, by age, etc. The unblindfolded team can tell them if they are correct or not, but cannot say why. When they are in the correct order, the teams switch places.

2. The Human Knot:

Everyone stands in a circle and puts both their hands out, grabbing a random hand from someone else. While not letting go of anyone’s hand, try to untangle the group. For less of a challenge, try using just one hand.

8. Cherry Pie:

Place a maraschino cherry in a pie plate. Tell the guests the object is to pick up the cherry without using their hands and eat it. Alas, things are never as easy as they seem. Before the challenge begins, fill the plate with whipped cream. This is a great photo opportunity!

3. Doubles:

Ask every guest to bring two small, wrapped gifts. This can either be white elephant or dollar store items. Pile all the gifts in the center of the table. Everyone sits around the table and rolls a pair of dice, trying to get doubles. If they get doubles, they choose a gift from the center. If not, they pass the dice to the next person. If you are playing with younger children, you might want to limit the amount of gifts each person will get. Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. Parties at their house include good food, lots of laughs, and of course, games.

www.easternshoreparents.com

ns. ne op e, ed

whe n ht

l he it on,

ld m. ly,

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Illuminating Play

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Even when the lights go down, there’s still plenty of play left in kids. Offering them opportunities to continue learning, exercising and thinking through light-up toys is a great way to avoid the sundown blues. Since fire first captivated the attention of early man, our eyes and minds still want to track on that light in the dark. As such, the following illuminated toys will delight children as they light up the night, creating a new chapter of brilliant experiences to be discovered in the dark!

by Gerry Paige Smith

Laser Pegs

Light Up Football

This set of 81 clear connecting components can be snapped together to assemble many different models which can then…light up! Your child’s model (or individual creation) can be a static build or it can connect with the power base to illuminate it in soft, glowing colors. Included with the set are 57 illustrated plans for models, but the versatility of the ‘pegs’ offer great room for creative and original constructs as well. The brightly colored LEDs have a vast life of over 100,000 hours which can illuminate countless evenings of entertaining building. There’s no limit to the brilliant creations that can emerge from the Laser Pegs Building Construction Set to light up the night!

It’s hard to “go long” in a front yard football game when the porch light only shines so far. Enter the Tealco Light Up Football. This full-size football weighs, plays, punts, kicks and throws just like a regulation ball. But when night falls or lighting is limited, the TealCo ball lights-up with bright internal LEDs that carry the game play way past dusk. More rugged and durable than some other similar products, this football is game for the same rough handling that a standard football endures. The difference is that the football game doesn’t have to end at sunset – and this bright ball won’t get lost in the bushes after dark!

(Laser Pegs/Hearthstone)

(TealCo)

Twilight Ladybug

Bike Brightz

(Cloud B)

(Bike Brightz)

Going far beyond the normal night light for kids, the Twilight Lady Bug is equally loveable and illuminating. The soft plush body is huggable all day long, but when the lights go down, the smooth plastic shell reveals its secrets in the dark. Pressing on the ladybug’s wings turns on a light that shines through strategic perforations in the shell, projecting a glowing star field on the ceiling. The star field includes seven major constellations that can be identified using the included Star Guide. The ladybug, available in red, green and blue, also comes with a sweet story about being lost and finding your way home using the stars as a guide. Whether you’re navigating the wonders of the night sky or just relaxing under a heavenly stellar landscape, the gentle glow of the Twilight Ladybug is a shining addition to any child’s lights-out company.

As more children discover the road on two wheels, the drive to bike doesn’t always have to end with the sunset. Making sure that they can see (and be seen) is a priority for parents of kids who roll on past dusk. Bike Brightz are a revolutionary new light accessory that utilizes six powerful wide beam LEDS to project a light field about a bicycle. This vivid halo of illumination not only adds really cool style to the ride, but enhances the bike’s visibility to others sharing the roadway. Bike Brightz are easy to install and feature settings that allow for constant light projection as well as slow, medium and fast flash. Bicycle enthusiasts – young and old - can take back the night with this wildly illuminating addition that adds visibility for a safer drive.

Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

Yummy Treats

Looking for the largest and finest collection of complete outfits including shoes, glasses and all of the accessories, doll beds and storage, to fit American Girl and Bitty Baby? Or how about a customized doll with matching eye color, hair style, or ethnic preference. High Quality 18â&#x20AC;? dolls are only $39.99!

Real butter fudge, homemade chocolates, gourmet truffles and specialty gift boxes make us the destination for gourmet holiday goodies. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our island famous pecan caramel paws or one of our many varieties of delectable chocolate barks you will find something tasty to make the perfect gift. Family owned and operated.

American Doll

Chocolate Corner

See our ad on page 75 Del La Mare Avenue, Fairhope Inside Page and Palette (251) 928-1855

200 W. Fort Morgan Road, Gulf Shores (251) 948-CHOC (2462) www.ChocolateCornerOnline.com Also visit us at Merry Market

tve s

s e

Custom Jewelry

Looking for the perfect, customized gift for mom, grandmother or child? These beautiful, handmade pendants are available in sterling silver, copper or brass and can be customized to your specifications. Gift Certificates are available!

Blue Girl Beading Co.

2200 East 2nd Street Suite F, Gulf Shores (251) 968-5900 www.BlueGirlBeadingCo.com Also visit us at Merry Market

Great Seafood

Give the gift of great seafood with an Original Oyster House Gift Card. Joe & Dave's sauces and seasonings make a great addition to any gift. Stop by our gift shops on the Causeway or in Gulf Shores.

Original Oyster House See their ad on page 55

On the Causeway

Holiday Gift Guide

p .

Beautiful Dolls and Accessories

3733 Battleship Parkway, Mobile (251) 626-218 or (251) 626-2188

On the Boardwalk

701 Hwy 59, Gulf Shores (251) 948-2445 www.originaloysterhouse.com 61

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

2013 Holiday Gift Guide

Christmas Pajamas

Perfect for Christmas morning, these adorable pajamas are available in a variety of colors and appliques for boys and girls. Need other holiday attire? Shop our selection of infant, toddler and children's apparel. Custom sewing and monogramming available along with other toys and gifts.

TiShaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Boutique and Design

Be A Star

Give them a gift that will last a lifetime. Whether it is piano, voice or acting, Center Stage Performance has a class for you! Multi-class discounts offered. Please see website for class descriptions. Gift Certificates available. Just in time for January musical theatre auditions!

CarSeat Cinema

Protect your devices from drops, spills and grimy little fingers. With CarSeat Cinema, you can attach them to highchairs, car seats and a multitude of surfaces around the house and on the go! Cases are available in Smartphone Size and Tablet Size. Fits most models. Several colors and patterns to choose from. Hand wash, line dry.

2200 East 2nd St. Unit I Gulf Shores, AL (251) 968-9105 www.ShopTishas.com Also visit us at Merry Market

Center Stage Performance

See our ad on page 19 Jessica Weber, Executive Director (251) 279-0338 www.CenterStagePerformance..com

Heart of Dixie

Give Back to Nature

Tumbling or Cheer Gift Certificates

Perfect Party Treats

The Backcountry Trail explores the vast underdeveloped 6,500-acre Gulf State Park with breathtaking views, winding trails and native habitats. See the sights of Orange Beach and support our local trails by giving 100% colorful cotton tees this holiday season. Adults $15 | Children $12.

Back Country Trail

See their ad on page 45 2154 Airport Blvd, Mobile Visit us at www.backcountrytrail.com and Facebook or Call (251) 287-2933 Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

Mention this ad and receive FREE Registration. One, Three, and Five-month gift certificates available. $15 off 3-month gift certificate, $25 off 5-month gift certificate. NEW LOCATION with HUGE space and many new classes!

Gulf Coast Tumbling

See our ad on page 68 3757 Gulf Shores Pkwy, suites BE & BF, Gulf Shores (251) 424-5484; gulfcoasttumbling@gmail.com 64

18645 Hwy 104, Ste. A, Robertsdale (251) 947-7773 Find us on Facebook!

Delight your family and friends with holiday treats that will have them talking all year. Rae's Catering offers delicious trays, treats and casseroles to make your holidays stress free. A catered tray makes a great hostess gift or try a basket of baked goodies for those extra sweet on your list.

Rae's Southern Kitchen & Catering Co.

460 North Section Street, Fairhope (251) 210-6135 Find us on Facebook www.easternshoreparents.com

Holiday Gift Guide 2013

Serious Fun!

A Gift Certificate to The Little Gym is perfect for children, grandchildren and even a new mommy. Imagine their face when they find out they will be joining the fun in gymnastics, dance or even karate classes. Classes available for ages 4months – 12 years.

The Little Gym

See their ad on page 36 22530 Highway 98 (Publix Shopping Center), Fairhope, (251) 928-3387 www.TheLittleGym.com/EasternShoreAL Ask about our Christmas Gift Card Specials

LuLu’s Crazy Sista and LuLu's Hot Sauce Party Pack Crazy Sista Cooking with Lucy Anne Buffett. Crazy Sista Cooking: Cuisine & Conversation is the next best thing to being there. Inside you’ll find laugh-out-loud anecdotes, wit & wisdom from Lucy’s own kitchen, festive party menus, Buffett family favorites & plenty of telling it like it is. $19.99 Don’t forget the LuLu's Fun Food Hot Sauce Party Pack, $19.99.

LuLu’s

See our ad on page 59 200 East 25th Avenue, Gulf Shores (251) 967-LULU (5858) www.LuLuBuffett.com

Riding Lessons

What an exciting present a gift certificate for horseback riding lessons would be. Rusty Gate Sport Horses offers gift certificates for English and Western lessons, beginner to advanced, for ages 5yrs and up. 2-hour group lessons are $25. Private lessons also available. Ride our horses or yours.

Rusty Gate Sport Horses Silverhill, AL Sherry Sturma (251) 233-4483

Happy Healthy Home Give your loved one a gift you cannot buy in a store, the gift of time. A gift certificate from Sweet Home Cleaning Service will give your loved one a much needed break. Sweet Home cleans with natural cleaners enhanced with great smelling aromatherapy products. Call for a free estimate!

Sweet Home Cleaning Service

Eliana Joines, Owner (251) 895-7185 Serving the Baldwin County Area 65

Merry Christmas from our Families to Yours!

Call 929-2099 for more information or email Ads@EasternShoreParents.com.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Se at

2013 Holiday Happenings Wales West Arctic Express

Thru Tuesday, December 24 13670 Smiley Street, Silverhill (888) 569-5337; www.waleswest.com Enjoy over one million lights, ride the Dame Ann steam train to visit Santa at the North Pole, take pictures, enjoy refreshments, and a mini train ride. The totally decorated train travels through a wonderful of 3D lighted displays and passes one Christmas display after the other on its way to the North Pole for a visit with Santa. Open: Nov 29th through Dec16th- Fridays, 4pm to 9pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 3pm to 9pm. Open daily December 16th through December 24th from 4pm to 9pm. Christmas at Wales West Light Railway is a special family time. The entire railway and surrounding park grounds are totally decorated with more than 1,000,000 lights, figures, blow-ups and miles of ribbon and garlands. The decorated steam powered Dame Ann leaves the main station for a mile-long trip through a wonderland of lights to the North Pole.. Once at the North Pole the children will be able to visit with Santa at the North Pole in the winter wonderland barn with staff assisting in taking family pictures. Each child receives a wooden locomotive or train whistle to decorate.. Upon returning to the main station everyone is treated to hot cocoa, cookies, and candy cane in the hospitality tent., followed by a 1/2 mile ride on the mini train. Admission is $12/person + tax. Children ages 13 months and under are free. Also available for a small additional fee is a petting zoo, pony ride, snowball cannon, and sleigh ride. All aboard!

Santa Arrives at Bel Air Mall Thru Tuesday, December 24 3299 Bel Air Mall, Mobile

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

(251) 478-1893; www.shopatbelairmall.com Santa arrived November 16 and will stay through Christmas Eve. Hours are Monday -Thursday 10:00am-8:00pm, Friday & Saturday 10:00am-9:00pm and Sundays will follow mall’s hours (times vary). Pet Photos with Santa is Sunday, December 1 from 6:00pm-8:00pm. Sounds of the Season December 12-15 - Local choral, dance, music groups are invited to perform in the mall. Hours vary. Please call (251) 478-1893 for more information.

Trim-A-Tree Christmas Event

Thru December 24th, Monday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm 116 W Laurel Ave (Hwy98), Foley Art Center (251) 943-4381; www.foleyartcenter.com More than 250 fine artists and craftsmen from throughout the southeast have created quality, unique one-of-a-kind ornaments, decorations, florals, pottery, jewelry, and fine artwork to be sold on consignment. This event is Free and open to the public.

Santa Arrives at the Eastern Shore Centre

Thru December 24th 30500 Highway 181, Spanish Fort (251) 625-0060; www.facebook.com.SantaESC No need for a pass or reservation. Hours are Fridays, (excluding Dec 13) 10am – 8pm; Saturdays, 10am – 8pm and Sundays 12pm – 6pm. Friday, December 6th is Pet Night from 5pm – 8pm. Additional dates are Thursday, December 19th from 1pm – 6pm; Monday, December 23rd from 12pm 0 8pm and Tuesday, December 24th from 10am – 2pm. Santa takes breaks Friday and Saturday from 1pm – 1:45pm; and 66

4:30pm – 5:15pm. Breaks on Sunday are from 2:30pm – 3:15pm. For more information email SantaESC@gmail.com.

Fish River Trees

Thru Monday, December 23 13982 Woodhaven Dairy Rd. East, Summerdale, off CR9; www.fishrivertrees.com There has always been something magical and heartwarming about a family trip to the country to search for that perfect Christmas tree. Enjoy strolling our beautiful 40-acre Christmas Tree Farm and evergreen nursery. Or take a free ride on The Tannebaum Express, our “tree train” for a fun filled farm tour (weekends only). View our manger scene with live animals and visit with Santa on the weekends from 10am – 4pm including the Friday after Thanksgiving. Santa will arrive Friday, November 23rd and throughout the sales season. Take a tour of the farm and view the wide selection of trees including our choose and cut trees, our special container-grown Living Christmas Trees that can be decorated then planted after the holidays, our fabulous shipped in Fraser Fir and Black Hill Spruce Trees, and our fresh wreaths, centerpieces, and garlands.

Ice Rink at the Wharf

Monday – Friday, 4pm – 10pm Saturday and Sunday, 10am – 10pm (251) 224-1000; www.alwharf.com Ready to get out on the ice and show off your skills? The Wharf will be hosting a real Winter Wonderland Ice Rink open to the public during the holiday months. Price is $8 for 2 hours with skate rental. $10 includes the above plus a Ferris Wheel ticket. www.easternshoreparents.com

Tod Th Ce Wh nin wil of be

Ma Be

Th giv 124 (25 Tak yea Ga sou Ga Fro thr klin the the hol Ca tion Bel Dis and abl cha day

m l

Season of Joy Light Show Premiere at the Wharf

Today – Monday, December 30, 6pm, 7pm The Wharf, 4830 Main Street, Orange Beach. Celebrate the season with SPECTRA, The Wharf’s sound and light spectacular, each evening on Main Street. The immersive experience will spark the spirit of the holidays in the hearts of kids of all ages! The Spectra light show will be featured twice nightly at 6pm and 7pm.

Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens and Home

Thru Tuesday, December 31st (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Year’s Day) 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore (251) 973-2217; www.bellingrath.org Take a special trip to the North Pole at this year’s Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens & Home; located just 20 miles southwest of Mobile, AL. Guests may visit the Gardens during the day from 8:00am–5:00pm. From 5:00pm–9:00pm, guests who stroll through the Gardens will see over 3 million sparkling lights in over 1,000 displays throughout the 65-acre estate. Enjoy live holiday music, see the Bellingrath Museum Home decorated in its holiday finery, and savor a bite at the Magnolia Café, serving lunch and dinner. Holiday decorations, ornaments and gifts are available at The Bellingrath Gift Shop. Discounted tickets for Magic Christmas in Lights and for the Bellingrath Museum Home are available on-line at www.bellingrath.org. Pre-purchased tickets must be purchased at least one day before your visit. Group rates are available.

Additionally, consider the Party Tent at Magic Christmas in Lights for your holiday or corporate gathering. For more information, please visit www.bellingrath.org or the Magic Christmas in Lights Facebook page.

are available at the Activity Center box office on a first come, first serve basis. The box office is located at 260 Clubhouse Drive and office hours are Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Santa Photos at The Wharf

Thru Sunday, December 22 (251) 224-1000; www.alwharf.com Santa’s will be available at The Wharf Thursday through Sunday, 4pm – 8pm. Saturday hours are 12pm – 8pm.

Tuesday December 3rd, 6pm 4985 Wharf Pkwy, Orange Beach (251) 224-1000; www.alwharf.com Join The Wharf for the “Lighting of The Island” when The Wharf’s magnificent 40-foot Christmas tree comes to life.

Gulf State Park Coastal Christmas

“Tiramisu, with a Touch of Christmas”

Sunday, December 1st, 6pm – 9pm Gulf State Park Pavilion, Gulf Shores Kick off the Christmas season with the Gulf State Park at the Gulf State Pavilion. Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, Christmas arts & crafts for the kids, Christmas carols, and be sure to bring your camera and snap a photo with Santa by the fire all while enjoying the backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico. Free Admission.

A Christmas Musical Celebration starring Brian Gurl

Tuesday, December 3rd, 7pm - 9pm Erie H. Meyer Civic Center, 1930 W 2nd St, Gulf Shores A Christmas Musical Celebration starring pianist, vocalist and musical director Brian Gurl. This five person production features a wide variety of Christmas melodies and holiday favorites performed like you’ve never heard them before with a taste of Rock ‘n Roll, Broadway, Jazz and a little bit of comedy. Free tickets for the show

Annual Lighting of The Island

Tuesday, December 3rd, 10am and 7pm Daphne Civic Center, 2603 Highway 98, Daphne www.bcyorchestra.com; bcyorchestra@gmail.com Baldwin County Youth Orchestra will ring in the holiday season at the Daphne Civic Center as IMPACT Children’s Theatre Group presents the original holiday musical entitled “Tiramisu, with a Touch of Christmas”. The play, written by Patti Woods, demonstrates the true meaning of Christmas in a story based in a 50’s era diner on Christmas Eve. The play is complete with carol singing, dance tunes, and holiday music to make this production entertaining, educational and memorable. This event is free to the public, however donations will be welcome as well as new toys for the Toys for Tots program. Sponsorships and silent auction items are also welcome.

Holiday Magic and Model Trains

Tuesday, December 3 – Friday, December 13 4850 Museum Drive, (Mobile Museum of Art)

d ry y

l an

ill

g h r-

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

(251) 208-5200; www.mobilemuseumofart.com Don’t miss the seventh annual exhibit of HO model trains on display from December 3 through December 13. Presented by the Mobile Society of Model Engineers, the exhibit will be set up with the elaborately designed tables set up in the Larkins Auditorium and free of charge during regular Museum hours. School groups will also experience the magic of the season through gallery tours and a studio art class, in which students will create a Holiday Magic original, each piece reflecting the young artist’s unique perspective on the holiday season.

Tree Decorating Contest in Foley

Wednesday, December 4th (set up day) New for 2013! The first eight participants to submit an application will be supplied a tree to decorate. Criteria for Tree Decorating Contest:• Height of the trees should be between 6’and 8’.• All trees must be in containers (so they can be replanted – no artificial trees, no cut trees) and must be securely tied down.• All trees must have a sign stating the “theme” and identifying the business and/or organization.• All decorations must be securely attached to tree limbs so they will not blow off in the wind or rain.• A small hole may be dug to help secure the tree. Set up Information: The tree should be set up for display at Heritage Park by Wednesday, Dec. 4th. Judging will take place on Thursday, Dec. 5th. The trees may be removed beginning Thursday, Dec. 26 but no later than Thursday, January2, 2013. The applicant or a designee must be responsible for maintenance and any upkeep of the tree while on display. Linda Hula (251) 943-1300. You may find an entry

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

form online by searching Foley tree decorating contest 2013.

Baldwin Pops Christmas Concert

Tuesday, December 4th, 7pm – 9pm Foley Civic Center, 407 East Laurel Ave., Foley (251) 232-1013; www.bandwinpopsband.com Please bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots.

A Christmas Carol-The Musical at the Saenger Theatre

Thursday, December 5 – Friday, December 6 6 South Joachim Street, Mobile (251) 602-0630; www.playhouseinthepark.org The Playhouse in the Park presents Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” at the Saenger Theatre with original music and lyrics. A cast of 100 local youth will fill the stage with music, dancing, and a myriad of colorful characters such as Ebenezer Scrooge, Jacob Marley, Tiny Tim, the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future; and the fun-loving Fezziwigs. There is one public show December 6 at 7:30pm at the Saenger Theater in Downtown Mobile. Public show tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children, students and senior citizens. Please call (251) 602-0630 for public show reservations. School Shows for grades 1 - 12 are December 5 & 6. There are two shows each day at 9:00am and 11:15am. Tickets for students are $8 and teachers are admitted free. Please call (251) 422-0079 for school show reservations. Please visit www.playhouseinthepark.org for more information.

Classic Christmas Concert

Thursday, December 5th, 7pm Summerdale Municipal Complex, 502 West Lee Avenue, Summerdale Enjoy the classic holiday sounds from featured musicians Victor Andzulis and Megan Andzulis.

Tidings of Great Joy! Presented by Eastern Shore Choral Society

Thursday, December 5th, 7:30pm Sunday, December 8th, 3pm Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 South Section Street, Fairhope www.easternshorecoralesociety.org This year’s program will include the beautiful Christmas Music of John Rutter such as What Sweeter Music, Angels Carol, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (with the audience), Candlelight Carol, Silent Night, Star Carol, Joy to the World (with the audience). Tickets may be purchased from any ESCS member, at the Fairhope UMC office at the door on the concert door or on-line.

Christmas Parade in Downtown Fairhope

Friday, December 6th The Fairhope Magical Christmas Parade begins at 7:00 pm at the intersection of Morphy and Section Street, and continues down Section to Oak Street. The excitement will build as the beautifully lit floats dazzle the crowd in anticipation of Santa Claus’ arrival to Fairhope for the holiday season.

www.easternshoreparents.com

Lig

Frid Co Ora (25 Coa blo gal elry

Frid He (25 Co coc San ed

Ch Ba

Frid Co (25 com Th act Kic diti to on Ch ent Cla com Ch

d .

pa-

Light Up the Arts

Friday, December 6th, 5pm – 8pm Coastal Arts Center, 26389 Canal Road, Orange Beach (251) 981-2787, www.coastalartscenter.com Coastal Arts Center Open House: Hot Shop glass blowing; Clay Studio demo’s; whimsical lighted gallery exhibit; gift shop featuring glass, clay, jewelry and art; refreshments by Shipp’s Harbor Grill.

Christmas in the Park

Friday, December 6th, 6pm Heritage Park, 125 East Laurel Ave., Foley (251) 943-1300 Come out to Heritage Park to sing carols, sip cocoa, light the Christmas Tree and visit with Santa. Each year two lucky children are selected to help the Mayor light the Christmas tree.

Christmas on the Square – Bay Minette

Friday, December 6, 5:00pm Courthouse Square, Bay Minette (251) 937-5665; www.northbaldwinchamber. com The holiday season will be full of events and activities for residents in north Baldwin County. Kicking off the season will be a new holiday tradition “Christmas on the Square”, set for 5:00pm to 7:00pm on Courthouse Square. Christmas on the Square will include the lighting of the Christmas tree, bedtime stories with Santa, live entertainment and an appearance by Santa Claus. Please visit www.northbaldwinchamber. com for a full list of activities planned this Christmas season.

Mobile Symphony Youth Orchestra Holiday Concert

Friday, December 6th, 7:30pm Foley Civic Center, 407 East Laurel Ave., Foley Mobile Symphony Youth Orchestra has musicians from not only Baldwin and Mobile Counties but also youth from other areas of the Southeast. A $5 donation is welcomed, encouraged and appreciated. For more information visit www.MobileSymphony.org/youth-orchestra/ or call 251-432-2010.

Gulf Shores Christmas Parade and Beach Celebration

Friday, December 6th, 6:30pm Gulf Shores Public Beach, 1905 West 1st Street, (251) 968-1173; www.gulfshoresal.gov The 4th Annual Christmas Parade will feature festive floats from around the region followed by a stunning lighting ceremony and celebration at the Gulf Shores Public Beach. Bring the whole family to the picnic area at Gulf Place to have their picture taken with Santa & enjoy refreshments, crafts, a live nativity, and entertainment. Free Admission. Reserve your spot in the Gulf Shores Christmas Parade by visiting our website, www.gulfshoresal.gov.

Nuncrackers – The Nunsense Christmas Musical

December 6th, 7th, 13th and 14th, 7:30pm December 8th and 15th, 2pm South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street, Gulf Shores Nuncrackers is the fourth show in Dan Gog-

gin’s series of NUNSENSE musicals and this is the first “TV Special” taped by the sisters in their convent basemen studio for cable access. It stars the nuns you love plus Father Virgil and some of Mt. Saint Helen’s most talented students. It features all new songs including: Twelve Days Prior to Christmas, Santa Ain’t Comin’ To Our House, We Three Kings of Orient Are Us, and It’s Better To Give Than To Receive. This show is filled with “Nunsense” humor, some of your favorite carols a “Secret Santa,” and an uproarious take on Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Ballet. Nuncrackers will make you laugh and maybe tug at your heartstrings. It’s the perfect way to insure your holiday season is merry and bright. Directed by: Jan Hinnen. Presented by special arrangement with Tams-Witmark Licensing. Tickets are $18, Students $15 and children under 2 are admitted free. To purchase tickets or for more information visit, www.sbct.biz.

Coastal Chorale Christmas Show

Friday, December 6th – Saturday, December 7th, 7:30pm; Sunday, December 8th, 3:00pm Foley United Methodist Church Spirit Center, 915 North Pine Street, Foley (251) 599-2448; www.coastalchorale.com The Coastal Chorale Christmas Show tickets are $15 and can be purchased on their website, from any Coastal Chorale member, at local Centennial Banks or at the door. Performances are at Foley United Methodist Church, located at 915 North Pine Street, Foley.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Taste of the Islands Gala Presented by The Mystical Order of Mirams

Friday, December 6th, 6pm www.mirams.info This year’s culinary extravaganza will host over 35 restaurants from Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and surrounding areas. Modern Eldorados will provide musical entertainment. Please bring an unwrapped toy to benefit local children in need. Taste of the Islands is the perfect venue to host your holiday party! Let us do the work, as you take all the credit. Tickets to this All-Inclusive Holiday Gala are $50 per person. Tickets are available through our website or may be purchased at Wildflowers Boutique & Life’s A Canvas-Orange Beach and Too Hot Mamas- Gulf Shores.

St. Lawrence Christmas Bazaar

Saturday, December 7th, 9am – 3pm 370 S. Section St., Fairhope Variety of Unique Vendor Booths, Arts - Crafts - Antiques – Food - Pictures with Santa ... and much more! Over the past few years the Christmas Bazaar has grown into a wonderful experience for the whole family. We started with just a small idea to make a little money to send our youth group to Washington and the event has grown into an event that the people of St. Lawrence and Fairhope look forward to every year. Free Admission. Like us on Facebook.

Breakfast with Santa Cow

Saturday, December 7th, 9am or 10am Chick-fil-A, Daphne location (251) 621-3215; www.chick-fil-a.com/daphne

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

Join us for breakfast, pictures, and crafts with Santa Cow and Elf Cow. Please make your reservation on our website for a 9am or 10am seating.

Breakfast with Santa’s Elf at Paint n’ Parrot

Saturday, December 7th 9 North Church Street, Fairhope (251-928-4161; www.paintnparrot.com Come to Paint’n Parrot to visit with Santa’s Elf, enjoy some treats and create a cookie plate to leave out on Christmas Eve! Reservations required. Call to reserve your space.

Make Your Own Grinch: Grinchmas Workshop

Saturday, December 7th, 9:30am – 11:30am Eastern Shore Art Center Come join the fun as we explore the story of how the Grinch Stole Christmas and make our own Grinch’s! Each child will learn how to paint the Grinch and leave with a completed art project. Of course, cookies and hot cocoa will be included! Ages 6-10, $25, $20 family members and above.

Christmas Parade in Spanish Fort

Saturday, December 7, 9am Eastern Shore Center; (251) 626-4884 reception@cityofspanishfort.com A time-honored tradition in Spanish Fort. Now accepting applications through Monday December 2nd.

Foley Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 7th, 10am – 11am Downtown Foley; (251) 943-5001 The annual Christmas Parade winds its way through downtown Foley with festive floats, treats and throws, and of course, Santa waves a Merry Christmas to all.

Let It Snow!

Saturday, December 7th, 11am - 3pm Heritage Park, 125 East Laurel Avenue, Foley (251) 943-1300 Directly following Foley’s Christmas Parade, come to the park for live entertainment, inflatable obstacle courses, storytelling with Mrs. Claus, a children’s art village and SNOW!!! Concessions sold on site… don’t forget your mittens!

Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus

Saturday, December 7th, 8am – 11am Magnolia Springs Community Hall, Corner of Highway 49 and Oak Street The Magnolia Springs Community Association will hold its 6th annual “Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus” from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The cost is $5.00 plus a new, unwrapped toy to be donated to Toys for Tots. The admission includes a pancake breakfast and a picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Cookies with Santa

Saturday, December 7th, 9am-10:30am Oak Hollow Farm, 14210 Greeno Road, Fairhope (251) 990-3333; www.feefonline.org As a way of saying “Happy Holidays” to the community, Fairhope Educational Enrichment

www.easternshoreparents.com

Fou San eve ent coo

Sat Fai (25 Co ma Th

Br Be

Sat Ora (25 Ch Ch and Fre

Cit an

Sat Cit Joi act Par

Ro Ch

Sat par

onns!

Foundation will host its annual Cookies with Santa at Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope. The free event will feature pictures with Santa, holiday entertainment by Fairhope school music groups, cookies and hot cocoa.

Santa Saturdays in Fairhope

Saturday, December 7th and 14th Fairhope Welcome Center, Fairhope (251) 929-1466, www.cofairhope.com Come visit with Santa and get your picture made (bring your own camera). 10 am – Noon, This is a free event.

Breakfast with Santa at Orange Beach United Methodist Church

Saturday, December 7th, 8am – 11am Orange Beach UMC, 28751 Canal Rd (251) 981-6751; www.orangebeachumc.org Children of ALL ages are invited to come in their Christmas PJ’s to eat breakfast, make a craft and have their picture made with Santa himself. Free admission for children of all ages.

City of Daphne Christmas Celebration and Parade

Saturday, December 7th, 9am, parade at 11am City Hall, Daphne; (251) 621-3703 Join us before the parade at 9am for kids’ activities, hot dogs, music and lots of family fun. Parade begins at 11am.

Robertsdale Christmas Parade and Christmas in the Park Saturday, December 7, 6:30pm-9:00pm, parade at 6:30pm

Honeybee Park, Robertsdale, (251) 947-2626 The Robertsdale Rotary Club presents the annual Robertsdale Christmas Parade. Parade will start at 6:30pm at the Robertsdale High School and end at Wisconsin Street at Honeybee Park. For more information contact the Central Baldwin Chamber of Commerce at (251) 947-2626.

holidays. This time she is inviting mothers and daughters, as well as any other interested young people ages eight and up. Due to our limited space, the library needs confirmation from attendees at least two days prior by calling 965-2305.

Christmas Boat Parade on the River

Saturday December 7th, 12pm – 3pm Life’s A Canas SanRoc Cay 27267 Perdido Beach Blvd, Suite C103 (251) 981-7770; www.lifesacanvasob.com You get to choose your own ornament, paint it, have cookies and cocoa, face painting, letters to Santa and get your picture taken in Santa’s photo booth! Reservations are not needed. *Photo booth brought to you by Flash Time Photo Booth.

Saturday, December 7th, Dusk (251) 443-6300; www.grandmarinermarina.com Dog River’s annual Christmas on the River Boat Parade. This is Mobile’s oldest and largest boat parade. Sponsored by Grand Mariner Marina, 6036 Rockpoint Road, Mobile.

Mobile’s Singing Children 37th Annual Christmas Concert Saturday, December 7th 2 South Claiborne Street, Mobile (Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception) www.mobilesingingchildren.org Come join us on Saturday, December 7 at the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception for the 37th Annual Christmas Concert from 7:00pm-8:30pm.

Christmas Card Workshop

Saturday, December 7th, 12:30pm Magnolia Springs Library, 12440 Magnolia Avenue, Suite 600, Magnolia Springs (251) 965-2305; magnoliaspringslibrary@gmail.com Mrs. Melanie O’Donnell will teach us how to make professional looking Christmas cards. She shared this talent for Halloween and Thanksgiving and plans to continue prior to future

Annual Christmas Ornament Painting

“Messiah” with Pensacola Symphony in Gulf Shores

Sunday, December 8th, 2:30pm – 3:30pm Gulf Shores United Methodist Church Sanctuary (251) 968-2411; choralesocietyofpensacola.com Tickets are required and may be purchased in the church office.

First Baptist Church Orange Beach Nativity Open House

Sunday, December 8th – December 10, December 12 – December 16, 9am – 3pm 4773 Bay Circle & Canal Road, Orange Beach The FBC family welcomes our neighbors, friends, and visitor to share our love of Jesus and celebrate the season of His birth through the art of nativities. Over 75 nativities will be

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

displayed for all to enjoy in a casual open house atmosphere.

Children’s Christmas Musical at Gulf Shores United Methodist Church Sunday, December 8th, 11am service Gulf Shores United Methodist Church Sanctuary (251) 968-2411, www.gulfshoresumc.org Tickets required. Please call the church office for ticket information.

Baldwin Pops Christmas Concert Monday, December 9th, 7pm – 9pm Daphne Civic Center (251) 232-1013; www.bandwinpopsband.com Bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots.

Baldwin County Youth Orchestra Christmas Concert Monday, December 9th, 7pm Daphne Civic Center, 2603 Highway 98, Daphne www.bcyorchestra.com; bcyorchestra@gmail.com The orchestra’s annual Christmas Concert will include the organizations beginning strings and band classes, adult strings, youth strings, wind ensemble and their premier advanced youth orchestra. The Youth Orchestra currently includes string and band students from 8 different Baldwin County Schools as well as some private and homeschool students. This event is free to the public, however donations will be welcome as well as new toys for the Toys for Tots program. Sponsorships and silent auction items are also PulmAssoc PurpFlwr ad 9/5/13 10:36 welcome.

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

Lights of Love 2013

Tuesday, December 10 USA Women’s and Children’s Hospital (251) 415-1636 www.rmhcmobile.org Three organizations dedicated to the care of children and families are celebrating the excitement and wonder of this holiday season! Everyone is invited to the annual “Lights of Love” tree lighting at USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital beginning at 6:00pm, Tuesday, December 10.Co-sponsored by the Ronald McDonald House and the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute, the Lights of Love tree lighting directly in front of the hospital will also feature visits from Santa Claus and Ronald McDonald, as well as performances from local school and community choirs. Visitors can enjoy cookies and cocoa while strolling the grounds of the beautiful Geri Moulton Children’s Park that forms the entrance to Children’s & Women’s Hospital. Parking will be available at the nearby USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. For details, call 251-415-1636 or e-mail cwhdevelop@usouthal.edu.

“Grinch” Photos at the Clock

Tuesday, December 10th, 4pm – 5:30pm Fairhope Clock, Corner of Fairhope Avenue and Section Street Christmas the Grinch will never again knock. He invites you to take photos with him at the clock sponsored by Page and Palette! For more information call (251) 929-1466. AM Page 1

Ride the Arctic Express at Chick-fil-A Daphne

Tuesday, December 10th, 6pm – 8pm Chick-fil-A, Daphne location (251) 621-3215; www.chick-fil-a.com/daphne Make your reservations on our website for your golden ticket to board the Artic Express! Join us for a showing of the movie, “The Polar Express” beginning at 6pm.

Toys for Tots at Talbots

Wednesday, December 11th, 4pm – 8pm TALBOTS in the Eastern Shore Centre will host the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots Program. Please bring a new unwrapped toy to the store to be donated to those less fortunate.

City of Gulf Shores Christmas Open House

Thursday, December 12th, 6pm The night will begin at 6 p.m. with crafts, games and treats at the David L. Bodenhamer Recreation Center, Gulf Shores Museum, Thomas B. Norton Public Library and South Baldwin Community Theater. Santa will highlight the night as he arrives at the Erie H. Meyer Civic Center at 7:30 p.m. After visiting with Santa, families are invited inside to cap off the evening with a free performance by the Gulf Coast’s leading performance choir, The Coastal Chorale.

Coastal Christmas Stroll

Thursday, December 12th, 4:30pm – 7pm Orange Beach Senior Center, Library, Wind and Water Learning Center and Coastal Arts Center Enjoy the wonderful facilities that the City of

www.easternshoreparents.com

Ora inc Wa wil act

Th Jam (25 Jam fre

Th De Ro Co into “Th coo and res

M Cr

Frid Sat (25 Ora wa Th two gift Ma

ur us s”

to e.

mes

e e r-

d r

Orange Beach has to offer. Many City facilities including the Senior Center, Library, Wind and Water Learning Center and Coastal Arts Center will be holding Open House and many other fun activities. Free admission.

Nix Center Annual Holiday Concert

Thursday, December 12th, 2pm James P. Nix Center, 1 Bayou Dr., Fairhope; (251) 928-2835 Jammin’ Folks will provide holiday music. Refreshment will be served following concert.

Polar Express Event

Thursday, December 12th-14th, 6pm Derailed Diner, 27801 County Road 64, Robertsdale, (251) 960-1152 Come join us, our dining car will be transformed into the train car scene from the childrens book, “The Polar Express”. All will enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, professional performance, sing along, and a magic jingle bell. This is a free event, but reservations are required.

Merry Market Gifts and Crafts Expo

Friday, December 13th, 2pm – 7pm Saturday, December 14th, 9am – 6pm (251) 968-7200, Vicki Stillings Orange Beach Events Center, 4671 Wharf Parkway Drive, Orange Beach The 2nd Annual Merry Market at the Wharf is two days of fine arts, arts and crafts and unique gifts. Admission is free and open to the public. Make sure you check out the Santa’s Workshop

for children on Saturday the 14th. A great activity for the kids while you shop!

Around the World Christmas Exhibit

Friday – Sunday, December 13th – 15th, 10am – 4pm at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Life Center 28788 North Main Street, Daphne (251) 626-2421; www.stpaulseasternshore.com; debbiequinn@bellsouth.net St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Daphne will again host fifth annual Festival of Nativities to usher in the Christmas season. This special exhibit has featured over 400 nativity displays in a variety of mediums, representing religions and traditions from countries all over the world. No admission will be charged and refreshments will be available. The exhibit is especially child-friendly, with a crèche play area, puzzles, books and crafts offered – all especially designed for students aged four years and up. For more information or to schedule group/school tours, call the church office or contact Debbie Quinn.

Christmas Fest in Bay Minette

Friday and Saturday, December 13th and 14th Blackburn Park in Old Town Bay Minette (251) 937-5665; www.northbaldwinchamber. com; assist@northbaldwinchamber.com The 31st annual Christmas Fest will be held Dec. 13-14 in downtown Bay Minette. Vendor booths are open 8am to 9pm Friday and 8am to 4pm Saturday. On opening night, Santa Claus will arrive at 5:30 p.m. on top of the Bay Minette fire truck and will be tossing more than candy. Santa will drop 400 ping pong balls and those who collect numbered balls can redeem

them for prizes. Christmas Fest weekend will be packed with activities and musical performances will be held both days. Other events planned include Pancakes with Santa, a 5K run and 1-Mile walk and a car show. The Christmas parade will be held 1:30 p.m. Saturday. Also, residents throughout Baldwin County will be able to shop for unique and one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones and friends. Please visit our website for a full list of activities.

Santa’s Workshop for Children

Saturday December 14th, 10am - 4pm At Merry Market, Orange Beach Events Center, The Wharf Children ages 5 - 12 will make an ornament to take home, decorate cookies for snack and write letters to Santa while parents shop at Merry Market. Tickets are $6 if purchased by December 6th. $10 after December 6th. Contact the Alabama Gulf Coast Chamber for tickets or more information, (251) 968-6091.

Bay Shore Ballet Academy “The Nutcracker”

Saturday, December 14th, 2pm and 7:30pm Sunday, December 15th, 3pm Fairhope Civic Center, 161 N. Section St., Fairhope Dancers of the Bay Shore Ballet Theater, along with students of the Academy will be featured in the much anticipated holiday classic, “The Nutcracker”. A special, full-length preview performance will be Saturday, December 14h at 2:00 P.M. with general admission ticket prices at $5.00. Performances on Saturday, December

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

14th at 7:30 P.M. and Sunday, December 15th at 3:00 P.M., tickets will be priced at $12 for adults and $10 for seniors and children 12 and under. Janet Carole, former principal ballerina with leading U.S. and Canadian ballet companies will direct the whimsical classic, which will delight audiences of all ages. Glorianne Morrow will be the Principal Dancer, in the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Professional stage production will be by Scenic Design. Tickets for performances can be purchased online at www.eventbrite.com , or in advance at The Coffee Loft, 503 N. Section St. in Fairhope, Page and Palette, 32 S. Section St. in Fairhope, at the door prior to performances, or by calling the Bay Shore Ballet at 251-990-9744. For reserved seating, calling Trin Ollinger at (251) 583-3875. Teachers interested in bringing school classes to a special condensed version of the ballet on Friday, December 13th, or to have a dancer visit their class, should contact Vicki O’neill at vkoneill1@aol.com.

Billy Claus Visits Lulu’s!

Saturday, December 14th, 2 pm 200 East 25th Avenue, Gulf Shores. (251) 967-LULU (5858); www.LuluBuffett.com Billy Claus Oh Billy Claus how we love you... Poor Billy is allergic to snow so what better place for him to come and celebrate the holidays but LuLu’s. Come enjoy as this delightful children’s book, written by none other than the talented Lucy Buffett, comes to life. Enjoy a full day of arts & crafts, live music and get your picture taken with Billy Claus and his LuLubelle’s. Make sure to leave Billy your Christmas list so that he can personally deliver it to his brother (you may have heard of him) Santa Claus. What a better way to kick off the holiday season than a day here with all of your friends and family at LuLu’s.

Mobile Ballet presents The Nutcracker

Saturday, December 14-Sunday, December 15 Mobile Civic Center Theatre (251) 342-2241; www.mobileballet.org Mobile Ballet will take you on a magical journey of brilliant dancing, sumptuous sets, and gorgeous costumes. This is a favorite for all ages. Saturday at 2:30pm and 7:30pm and Sunday at 2:30pm.

Christmas Ornament Express: Grinchmas Workshop

Saturday, December 14th, 9:30am – 11:30am Eastern Shore Art Center, 401 Oak St. Fairhope 251-928-2228; www.esartcenter.com Children will love creating holiday ornaments for their holiday trees! With stories, snacks and customized keepsake ornaments, it is sure to be a fun-filled morning! Ages 6-10, $25. $20 family members and above.

Annual Christmas Ornament Painting

Saturday December 14h, 12pm – 3pm Life’s A Canas SanRoc Cay 27267 Perdido Beach Blvd, Suite C103 (251) 981-7770; www.lifesacanvasob.com You get to choose your own ornament, paint it, have cookies and coco, face painting, letters to Santa and get your picture taken in Santa’s photo booth! Reservations are not needed. Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

*Photo booth brought to you by Flash Time Photo Booth. Call for pricing.

Holiday Harmonies – Mobile Symphony Orchestra

Saturday, December 14, Sunday, December 15 6 Joachim Street, Mobile (Saenger Theatre) (251) 432-2010; www.mobilesymphony.org We’re changing things up this holiday season and giving our traditional Holiday Pops concert a more modern, upbeat touch. Pentatonix, a capella artists and winners of NBC’s “SingOff,” will amaze you with their vocal talents and beautiful harmonies as they make their orchestral debut with the Mobile Symphony. On December 14, the performance will start at 8:00pm and on December 15; the starting time is 2:30pm. Please visit www.mobilesymphony. org for more information.

27th Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade

Saturday, December 14th The parade on the Intercoastal Waterway Canal starts at LuLu’s Homeport Marina at 5:30pm and ends at approximately around 8:30pm at Zeke’s Landing Marina. For more information or to enter your boat email lauren@alagulfcoastchamber.com.

American Girls’ Christmas Celebration Saturday, December 14th, 12:30pm Magnolia Springs Public Library, 12440 Magnolia Avenue, Suite 600, Magnolia Springs (251) 965-2305; magnoliaspringslibrary@gmail. com “American Girls’ Christmas Celebration” by Mrs. Lolly Turner is a follow up to her successful summer programs where she explored the history of the time depicted to include artifacts and crafts. Due to our limited space, the library needs confirmation from attendees at least two days prior. Please reserve your space by calling or emailing the library.

Cookie Decorating Class

Saturday, December 14th, 3pm – 6pm Faulkner State University, Gulf Shores Campus (251) 990-0445; faulknerstate.edu/programs/ cpd Learn to make and decorate a variety of cookies in this hands-on class. The class will learn about different styles of cookies and methods of decoration then move to the kitchen to bake up several batches to decorate, share and enjoy. This is a hands-on class. Instructor: Shannon Munday: $30 per person.

Cookie Extravaganza

Saturday, December 14th, 9am – 12pm Orange Beach United Methodist Church, 28751 Canal Rd, Orange Beach (251) 981-6751; kfleming@orangebeachumc.org Join us for our Annual Christmas Cookie Sale. You can get special cookies and candies for Christmas gifts. Please help us by baking cookies and dropping off at the Brooks Center by Friday, Dec 13th and by bringing your friends and neighbors to the event on the 14th. This is an annual fundraiser for the UMW Martha Missions. This helps support our mission of Spreading God’s Love and helping others. Three size cookie tins available to fill, prices vary. 74

5 Rivers Crafts – Christmas Ornaments

Saturday, December 14th, 1pm – 3pm 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort (251) 625-0814; www.Alabama5Rivers.com Make your own memorable Christmas Tree Ornament. We have the supplies, you bring the imagination, the creativity – and the kids! Come make a memory! Free and open to all ages.

5 Rivers Matinee – “I Want A Dog For Christmas, Charlie Brown” Sunday, December 15th 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort (251) 625-0814; www.Alabama5Rivers.com Film plays throughout the day. Free.

SanRoc Cay’s Rockin’ Christmas Open House

Sunday, December 15th, 1pm – 6pm SanRoc Cay, 27267 Perdido Beach Boulevard Orange Beach Music by Roger Strict-SanBar, Open-refreshments inside the stores, Life’s A Canvas will host a “Paint Your Own Ornament” event, Sweet Dreams will be a drop off point for Cards, Letters, and Packages for our troops (Sweet Dreams is paying postage), Private Gallery will host a KM Designs Trunk Show also accepting Shoe Box donations for the Samaritan’s Purse, Scarlet Begonias will be a drop off location for Toys & canned goods for The Pantry, Treasure Chest will host a book signing by local artist & author Ryan Anderson, Serenity Spa will host an open house with tours of their new addition & complimentary hand & stress relief treatments, Jane Loves Shoes will have gift with purchase & drawings for more prizes & gifts in many of our fabulous boutiques! Refreshments at Ocean Eddies Resort Wear-J G Gordon Interiors-Too Hot Mamas-All Island Flowers-Blue Lagoon Swimwear. Look for Christmas Specials, Discounts in every store.

“And on Earth…Peace” by the OBUMC Chancel Choir

Sunday, December 15th, 6pm – 7pm Orange Beach United Methodist Church, 28751 Canal Rd, Orange Beach Please join us for a time of celebration “And on Earth...Peace” presented by the OBUMC Chancel Choir. Free and open to the public.

5 Rivers StoryTime - “Dinosaurs Night Before Christmas”

Tuesday, December 17th, 10am – 11am 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort (251) 625-0814; www.Alabama5Rivers.com Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. This week’s story is “Dinosaurs Night Before Christmas” by Jim Harris.

Breakfast with Santa

Saturday, December 21st, 8am – 10:30am Erie H. Meyer Civic Center, 1930 W 2nd St, Gulf Shores www.easternshoreparents.com

You San Sa bre eg pic Bre 3a

Bo St

Sa Fai Co for Ch

5R Dr

Su 5R 30 (25 Co film Th Cla lar, Nig

Ch Co

Tue Ora 28 Ch

he me

a or

You’ll have one more opportunity to visit with Santa as Gulf Shores hosts Breakfast with Santa. Families can dive into a wholesome breakfast complete with sausage, bacon, eggs and pancakes before having their pictures taken with Santa. Admission for Breakfast with Santa is $5.00, while children 3 and under are free.

Book Reading – How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Saturday, December 21st, 11am Fairhope Public Library, (251) 929-1466 Come join us at the Fairhope Public Library for a book reading of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. This event is free.

5 Rivers Sunday Matinee – Dreamworks Holiday Classics

Sunday, December 22nd 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort (251) 625-0814; www.Alabama5Rivers.com Come out and join us a free family, friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week, watch four Dreamworks Holiday Classics with: Donkey’s Christmas Shrektacular, Merry Madagascar, Dragons Gift of the Night Fury, and Madgascar Penguins.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service

Tuesday, December 24th, 5pm - 6pm Orange Beach United Methodist Church, 28751 Canal Rd, Orange Beach Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Ser-

vice followed by “Come and Go Communion” from 6-8pm.

Noon Year’s Eve Celebration!

December 31, 10am (LuLu’s closes at 5 pm) LuLu’s - 200 East 25th Avenue, Gulf Shores (251) 967-LULU (5858) www.LuluBuffett.com Family friendly NOON Year’s Eve Celebration at LuLu’s! Think your year couldn’t possibly get any better, just wait and see what LuLu’s has in store to help you end the year with a bang. LuLu’s Annual Noon Year’s Eve party is pure excitement around every corner. From delicious food, sandcastle building contest, arts & crafts, live music, zoo animals, face painting, wow I could just go on and on, but wait there is one thing I forgot to mention... To count it down to noon we celebrate with kid friendly fireworks and a huge beach ball drop. Just take a look at the pictures from last year and plan your vacation to make sure you don’t miss this incredible event. See you there!

Fairhope’s New Year’s Eve Celebration

Tuesday, December 31 Downtown Fairhope, 8:30pm - Midnight (251) 929-1466; www.cofairhope.com Dancing in the streets. Band begins playing at 8:30 pm at corner of Fairhope Ave. and Section St. Other entertainment includes a DJ, Fireworks at midnight, free party favors and a ball drop at midnight.

New Year’s Eve Beach Bash

Tuesday, December 31st, 8pm Gulf State Park Pavilion Gulf Shores will close out its holiday season by ringing in 2014 with the New Year’s Eve Beach Bash! Festivities on the beach include a large bonfire, campfires with s’mores and a live DJ, while Top Hat and Jackie will be providing live entertainment under the pavilion. The evening will be highlighted by a spectacular fireworks display from the Gulf State Park Pier at 10 p.m. followed by a second show to ring in the New Year at midnight. This first-time event is the result of a partnership between the City of Gulf Shores, Gulf State Park and the City of Orange Beach and will officially kick off the statewide celebration of the 75th Anniversary of Alabama’s State Parks. For more information about any of the City of Gulf Shores holiday events, contact the Special Events Division at 251968-1172 or visit www.gulfshoresal.gov.

Moon Pie Over Mobile New Year’s Eve Celebration

Tuesday, December 31 (251) 208-1550; www.ncsmobile.org Moon Pie over Mobile is back. With over 60,000 people in attendance last year, this year’s New Year’s event will usher in the New Year in grand style. Come and get a larger glimpse at the moon pie as it rises over the city in downtown mobile. There will be live entertainment, activities for the kids at the local museums and a countdown to 2014 like no other. ESP

ith

s by

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

mu po to list

las wil of Yo you

find ligh tre af gif on sav the you

po po for we allo Yo few

ha fam tea Ne sho sp to

by Sara Kendall

The holidays are always greatly anticipated and often the source of some of our happiest memories. However, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not careful, holiday spending can wreak havoc on your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s budget. It can empty your wallet and leave you with a pile of credit card debt ringing in the New Year with you. But, with a little planning, you can have a wonderful holiday season without missing any of the fun. Put these 12 holiday saving tips into action to save your family some money during this year. Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

ery frie Dra ing to

AT ca pa on

Decide on a Budget

Credit Cards

First, you need to put a figure on how much you can spend. Write down every possible expense you could incur from gifts to entertaining to travel expenses. Review this list and trim costs wherever possible.

Not everyone can afford to cover their holiday expenses with cash only. Start by making as many purchases as you can with cash. Then, think about credit cards as short term loans. Use the card with the lowest interest rate first. Figure out a doable monthly payoff over a given number of months. Pay it back each month and don’t skip a payment.

Check the Closet Look through your holiday leftovers from last year. You could be surprised by what you will find. Quite likely, you already have plenty of wrapping paper, bows, gift bags or décor. You might be able to cross some items off your list, resulting in saving some cash.

Go Minimalist

Work with what you already have. If you find you only have three strands of working lights, then purchase a smaller Christmas tree that will work with less lighting. Only have a few rolls of wrapping paper? Buy smaller gifts. Think about skipping or cutting back on the outdoor lights and you could see a savings on your electricity bill. Decorate with the holiday décor you have and live with what you’ve got. Sometimes, less is more.

Send E-cards Completely eliminate paper cards and postage by sending e-cards. Not only is postage not required, but there is no charge for the cards either. There are a variety of websites for making an e-card, with many allowing you to add photos, music, or games. You can save some serious money with just a few clicks of your mouse.

Make a Shopping List

Think about all the people for which you have to buy a gift. List everyone including family, friends, co-workers, neighbors and teachers. Allot amounts for each person. Never leave home without the list. When shopping, focus on the amount you can spend. Avoid impulse buys by sticking firmly to your list.

Trim Your Gift List You don’t have to buy something for everyone. Have a conversation with family and friends. Brainstorm ways to reduce gift giving. Draw names for a gift swap or eliminate giving gifts to extended family. Perhaps, keep it to the immediate family only.

Pay Cash Withdraw your allotted amount from an ATM. Once it’s gone, stop spending. Using cash to make your purchases will eliminate paying back hefty monthly interest charges on credit cards.

Track Spending Sometimes, in spite of your best intentions, you can get caught up in the flurry of holiday shopping. Rushing around from store to store, getting enticed by the deals, you can completely forget about keeping up with your spending. It is critical for you to stay on track to avoid overspending. Designate a place to put all your receipts, so you can regularly and easily add up the totals to see how you are doing.

Homemade Gifts Another good way to reduce spending is by making homemade gifts. There are many creative ideas online, just search homemade gifts and you will find a plethora of ideas to choose from. Gifts made from the heart are special and usually cost much less than purchased ones.

Give the Gift of You By giving the gift of your time, you can save a ton of money. Give your friend a free night of babysitting, take care of your brother’s dogs while they are away on vacation, or keep your sister’s children overnight, so she and her husband can go on an overnight getaway. Design redeemable certificates on the computer or by hand for your loved ones to unwrap.

Meaning Over Glitz It can be easy to get wrapped up in the holiday frenzy, but it’s important to remember the meaning of the season. No matter what religion you follow or holiday you celebrate, spending time with loved ones is free. There is no greater gift in the world than being with the ones you love. Start today and put your plan into action. By using these tips, you will spend less and save more. You will be ringing in the New Year with more money in your pocket and less credit card debt lingering with you in 2014. ESP Sara Kendall is a freelance writer and mom of two daughters.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Family Calendar Ongoing

American Sport Art Museum and Archives Located on the campus of the United States Sports Academy in Daphne, dedicated to the preservation of sports history, art, and literature. Exhibits spotlight visiting artists on a rotating basis, as well as our permanent collection of prints, sculpture, original paintings, photographs and other arts media. Free admission. Hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 1 Academy Drive, Daphne. For more information call 251.626.3303 or visit www.asama.org. Big Brother / Big Sister Mentors Needed At-risk children at Summerdale School need volunteer Big Brother Big Sister mentors. “Bigs” have fun with a child one time a week, for one hour, on school grounds, during the school year by reading a story, working puzzles, playing catch, drawing, or just being a friend. Professional training and support are provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama YMCA, Inc. For more information or to volunteer, contact Polly at 251-344-0536 ext. 104. Eastern Shore Art Center A non-profit arts organization located in beautiful downtown Fairhope. The Art Center houses four galleries with exhibits that change monthly, as well as a gallery featuring member artists’ work for sale. Admission is free. 401 Oak Street, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928.2228 or visit www.easternshoreartcenter.com. The Exploreum The Exploreum is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. For tickets or more information visit www.exploreum.com or call 251-208-6873. 65 Government Street, Mobile. Fairhope Museum of History The museum is full of artifacts from old Fairhope. You can see displays on Clay City, the Single Tax Association and the Civil War. You can also see personal belongings from some of Fairhope’s first families. The museum is located in downtown Fairhope at 24 North Section Street. The museum is open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, call 929-1474. Marietta Johnson Museum This museum was founded to preserve the oldest school building in Baldwin Country, which was founded in 1907 by famed educator Marietta Johnson. Known as one of the first progressive schools in the world, the museum includes historic letters, documents, and artifacts from the school’s heyday, as well as biographical information about Marietta Johnson. To learn more, visit www.mariettajohnson.org. Open Mondays-Fridays from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free. 440 Fairhope Ave. 990-8601. Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve The Weeks Bay Reserve has a free educational interpretive center and two boardwalks. The Interpretive Center houses a multitude of exhibits, habitat models, specimen collections and a diorama giving the visitor a better understanding about the value of estuaries, diversity of coastal wetlands, and a close-up look at living plants and animals of coastal Alabama. Admission is free. Hours are Monday – Saturday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. 11300 US Highway 98, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928-9792 or visit www.weeksbay.org.

Classes/Meetings

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) Offering Adoptive Family Support Group Meetings in Baldwin County the 3rd Monday of each month. The meeting is held at Eastern Shore Church of Christ, 1209 Daphne Ave, in Daphne from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Parent, Youth/Teen group and childcare is available.

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

December2013

Topic discussions by adoption professionals and ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information call 251-460-2727 or 1-800-489-1886 or www. childrensaid.org. APAC also offers free counseling services to adoptive families. Celebration MOPS Fairhope Celebration MOPS meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. at Celebration Church, 8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope. Childcare is provided and is included in the fees. There is an annual $23.95 MOPS International membership fee and $5/meeting. Check us out on Facebook at Celebration MOPS Fairhope or contact coordinator Lauren Beck at celebrationmopsfairhope@gmail.com. Daphne Neurological Disease Support Group (Includes Parkinson’s Disease, epilepsy). Meets second Monday of each month at Daphne United Methodist Church, 2401 Main Street, Daphne, in the Community Life Center-Gathering Room. 11:00 a.m. until noon. Noon light lunch for $3 from 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. Speaker or joint group session. Contact person: Alice Hallford - 251-626-8228. Fairhope MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) We meet 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. every 2nd & 4th Monday at Fairhope United Methodist Church. All mothers of young children are welcome. Email fairhopemops@yahoo.com for more info. Father Central of Daphne *Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men, $75 giftcard upon completion. Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Call 251-626-1610 to register, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Chill Skills Anger Management by appointment. $25 giftcard upon completion. Call 251-626-1610 schedule, The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Nurturing Parenting, everything you need to know but were afraid to ask. Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Jump in on any Thursday! Call 251-626-1610 to register, 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne, near the YMCA. “ M oms O ffering M oms S upport” (MOMS Club) is a group intended for stay at home moms to provide encouragement for each other while providing fun activities for their children. This club is open to anyone on the Eastern Shore area of Baldwin County, Alabama. We hold a meeting at the beginning of each month with a speaker or topic relevant to moms while childcare is provided. Each month there are social activates organized for the children such as play dates, field trips and seasonal parties. MOMS Club is also dedicated to giving back to the community through supporting various charities. MOMS Club is a great way to connect with other moms, form friendship and enjoy activities with your little ones. For more information please visit our website at www.momsclubofdaphne. com or email us at momsclubofdaphne@yahoo.com. MOPS on the Eastern Shore MOPS stands for “Mothers of Preschoolers” - but don’t let that confuse you. MOPS is about meeting the needs of every mom of a child from conception through kindergarten with local groups of moms just like you. 7100 Spanish Fort Blvd., Spanish Fort. 1st Thursday of the Month (September through May). Dinner & Child Care are provided. 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. http://www.mopsontheeasternshore.shutterfly.com/ Facebook.com/MopsOnTheEasternShore Moonlight Chasse’ Ballroom Dance Society Dance lessons from 7 – 7:30 p.m., and Dancing from 7:30 – 10 p.m., first and third Monday of every month, at Fitzpen Place, 1 mile east of Eastern Shore Mall. No partner necessary. $10 per person includes dance lesson. $7 with membership, includes dance lesson. Live music, cash bar. www.FitzpenPlace.com. www.

Moonlightchasse.com. For more information, call 251621-6665 or 251-377-4069. PUMC Caregiver Support Group A new support group for caregivers of aging parents and others is discussing “boundaries” at monthly meetings open to the community. The public is invited to be a part of this support group, which meets monthly at Providence UMC, located between Spanish Fort High School and Middle School at 32200 Jimmy Faulkner Dr. For more information about the new support group, call the church office at (251) 6262510 or email pumc.office@bellsouth.net. For more information about Providence UMC, call the church office or visit the website at www.providencemethodist.org. Shepherd’s Place (Christian Life Center) Ministry for memory & physically challenged. Mondays & Wednesdays 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 South Section Street, Fairhope. 928-1148. Tango by the Bay ~ Argentine Basic classes are held every Tuesday from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. in Fairhope at Southern Edge Dance Studio, located behind Pizza Hut across from Thomas Hospital. 251 South Greeno, Fairhope. $5 per class (fee may be higher with special guest instructors). For more information Contact Ben Samel at 605-2657 or Cassie Fishbein 377-4069, cassief13@aol.com. South Baldwin Regional Medical Center offers the following classes: Your entire family can take part in several informative classes designed to help moms and dads welcome their special new addition to the family with more confidence. Classes cover topics including: Having A Healthy Pregnancy Nutrition, discomforts of pregnancy, warning signs of complications, and relaxation exercises. One session. Cost: $10. Prepared Childbirth Classes (Once a week for four weeks). Cost: $30 Week 1: Begin the Stages of Labor: The labor and delivery process, signs and stages of labor, options for coping, pain management, vaginal delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 2: Delivery and Cesarean Birth: A review of complications that may arise, use of special equipment, complete the stages of labor, cesarean delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 3: New Born and Postpartum Care: Newborn appearance, caring for the newborn, infant safety, recognizing complications, relaxation exercises, and choosing a pediatrician. What to expect after delivery, understanding the physical and emotional changes to your body, and relaxation exercises. Week 4: The Art of Breast Feeding: The benefits of breast feeding for mother and baby, anatomy and physiology of the breast, how to breastfeed, and common difficulties. One session. • Tiny Toes members may enroll in Yoga, Water Aerobics and Expectant Mother Exercise classes through the Snook Family YMCA. The fee is $5 a class. There is a $3 fee for child care. There is no fee if you are already a member of the YMCA. All classes are located at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center–1613 North McKenzie Street Foley. Tuesday evenings 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Classroom A. Located just off of the main lobby. • Please plan to attend the Healthy Pregnancy Class during your first trimester and the Prepared Childbirth Classes anytime after your 24th week of pregnancy. For more information or to enroll please call the OB Educator at 949-3676 to schedule. We look forward to sharing this special time with you!

www.easternshoreparents.com

Me Dis Gif The for The pre for info Tho Bre Tho Tue Inf Tho req 4Mo Thr wh par for Tho 6:3 Tho 9a (Da Tho Pre ww Na Mo For Piiz Ne Hel p.m Pre Pre 6p Pre Sib Tho reg

Tho gro Ala

& st 48.

al.

f .

of nt,

Method of payment accepted: Visa, Master Card, Discover, AmEx, Debit Card. Gift of Life The Gift of Life is a required maternity care program for Medicaid patients or Medicaid-eligible patients. The Gift of Life Program provides a caring system of prenatal services; education and care coordination for expectant moms and their babies. For additional information please contact 949-3781. Thomas Hospital offers the following classes: Breastfeeding Class  Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Monthly, first Tuesday, 6 - 8 p.m.  Free. Infant CPR and Safety Class  Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Pre-registration required.  To register call 279-1373.  Saturdays, 4 - 6 p.m.  Moving Through Labor Childbirth Classes Three or four-week prepared childbirth class series which prepares the mother-to-be and her support partner for the labor and delivery experience. $30 fee for the class series. Thomas Fitness Center, (Fairhope)   Mondays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope) Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.  Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Tuesdays, 6-8:30 p.m. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Pre-registration required. Call 251-279-1373 or visit www.thomashospital.com for upcoming classes. Natural Childbirth Classes, Fertility Awareness, Mother’s Comfort, Exercise and Nutrition For class schedule or more information call Geralyn Piizzotti, 251- 928-9396. Yourbodyyourbirth@bellsouth.net. Newborn Basics Class Held on the second Monday of every month from 6 – 8 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Free. No Pre-registration required. Pre-admission Sessions 6 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Pre-registration required.   Sibling Class   Thomas Hospital Fitness Center (Fairhope).  Preregistration required. Call 279-1373. 10 - 11 a.m.   Thomas Hospital offers the following support groups for the community: Alanon (Alcoholics Anonymous)

Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 800-477-1104 for more information. Alateen Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room East Tower meeting room at Thomas Hospital. Call 3911152 for more information. Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 345-7645 or 438-9590 for more information. ALS Support Group Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month from 11 a.m. to noon at Thomas Medical Center. Call 205-937-4415 for more information. Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Health Resource Center located at: 308 S. Greeno Road, Fairhope. Call 928-8650 for more information. Cancer Support Group-Family Connected by Ribbons Support group for cancer survivors, friends and family. Open to any types of cancer. Every first Thursday of every month from 6 - 8 p.m. Morphy Conference Room (Old ER entrance) at Thomas Hospital, Fairhope. Preregistration not required. Call 209-1229 for more information. Cancer Support Group for Women Meetings are held the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference

Check out our

Holiday Happenings Guide for many more seasonal events!

Room. For more information, call Patti Huval at 209-1229. Diabetes Support Group Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Diabetes Center. Call 279-1700 for more information. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Support Group Meetings are held every Thursday night from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 251- 9656264 for more information. Parkinson’s Support Group Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month from noon to 1 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251- 455-9919 for more information.

ss. u

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Family Calendar Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Support Group Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251626-6337 for more information.

December2013

$7 and available at A Fairhope Antiquery located at 100 N. Section Street, Fairhope, starting December 2nd.

Sunday, December 1

5 Rivers Sunday Matinee: “Polar Bear, Arctic Warrior” Come out and join us every Sunday for a free family-friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week, live vicariously in the cold with “Polar Bear, Arctic Warrior.” Regarded by many as one of the most fearsome predators in existence, the polar bear comes into focus, up close and personal. Attenborough shows us both the savagery of their hunting techniques and the tenderness of their familial relationships. For more information, 251-6250814; www.Alabama5Rivers.com. 30945 Five Rivers Blvd, Spanish Fort. The Beth Maynor Young Exhibit Beth Maynor Young is an accomplished conservation photographer who has spent much of her life chronicling the natural beauty and remnant wild places of the contemporary South. The photographs are mostly from unprotected places - each with its own story of biological compromise and imminent threat. But these places also embrace a Southern tradition - of being saved and preserved, of restoration and resurrection. Beth’s fine art photographs are part of many private and corporate art collections across the country. Her renown and popularity is a testament to the caliber of her work. Today, Beth’s photographs give us a moving vision of the natural world and speak quietly yet deeply of our need to preserve the South’s unique environmental heritage. Exhibit location - Coastal Arts Center at Orange Beach, 26389 Canal Road, Orange Beach. For more information call 251-981-ARTS (2787).

Monday, December 2 The Beth Maynor Young Exhibit See December 1 for details.

Tuesday, December 3 The Beth Maynor Young Exhibit See December 1 for details.

Wednesday, December 4

The Beth Maynor Young Exhibit See December 1 for details.

Thursday, December 5

The Beth Maynor Young Exhibit See December 1 for details.

Friday, December 6

Cinderella Kids Also December 7, 6:30pm both nights Daphne Elementary Auditorium, 2307 Main Street, Daphne. Poor Cinderella is endlessly mistreated by her wicked stepmother and stepsisters and denied a chance to go to the royal ball. With a little help from her mice friends, and a lot of help from her Fairy Godmother, Cinderella’s dreams come true. She goes to the ball, meets the Prince, and falls in love! Tickets are

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

Pearl Harbor and WWII Remembrance Event National Museum of Naval Aviation, 1750 Radford Blvd, Pensacola. The National Naval Aviation Museum will honor the World War II generation and present a newly restored WWII aircraft, an F6F-3 Hellcat. The public is invited to attend this free event at 10 a.m. and salute Pearl Harbor survivors and all WWII veterans. For more information call 850-453-2389. The Beth Maynor Young Exhibit See December 1 for details.

Saturday, December 7

The Beth Maynor Young Exhibit See December 1 for details.

“The Death of Santini” and hors d’oeuvres. A cash bar will be available. The Venue is located at 105 South Section Street, Fairhope. Tickets may be purchased at Page and Palette, 32 S. Section Street, Fairhope, 251-928-5295.

Tuesday, December 10

Best Selling Author, Cassandra King Event “Moonrise” is a modern gothic tale inspired by Daphne du Maurier’s classic novel “Rebecca”, which still enchants readers 75 years after its original publication. Set in the cloud-shrouded mountains of western North Carolina, at a summer vacation spot that attracts many of the wealthy from Atlanta and elsewhere, “Moonrise” combines du Maurier’s command of suspense, intrigue, and foreboding with King’s light approach to human foible. This event will be held at the Eastern Shore Art Center, 401 Oak Street, Fairhope. This is free and open to the public. Bring a brown bag lunch or call the store to reserve lunch from Andree’s for $10. Reservations made be made by visiting or calling Page and Palette, 32 S. Section Street, Fairhope, 251-928-5295.

Sunday, December 8 Thursday, 5 Rivers Sunday Matinee: “Killer Whales” Come out and join us every Sunday for a free familyDecember 12 friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week, learn about one of the top ocean predators in “Killer Whales”. For more information, 251-625-0814; www.Alabama5Rivers.com. 30945 Five Rivers Blvd, Spanish Fort. Baubles, Boursin and Bourdeaux An afternoon of friends, food and festivities, will be Dec. 8 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Immanuel Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 700 McMillan Avenue, Bay Minette. A silent auction featuring estate jewelry, handmade wooden bowls and various other items will be part of the afternoon’s events, as well as a sale of Boursin and other cheese balls. Participants will be treated to samples of the cheese balls and other food items, as well as musical selections. There is no admission and all are welcome to attend. For more information, contact Ryan Gillikin at ryangillikin@gmail.com. Immanuel Episcopal Church is one of Bay Minette’s oldest churches, tracing its beginnings to 1908.

Vino & Van Gogh Painting Parties Performing Arts Association of Foley announces our upcoming Vino & Van Gogh Painting Party schedule. Join us for a great night out and create your own masterpiece! All participants will paint a masterpiece and enjoy great company, good food, fine wine and door prizes. This is great fun for beginners as well as advanced artists. The cost is $25 per person, which includes your art supplies & light hors d’oeuvres. B.Y.O.B. wine from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Groups are welcome, the more the merrier! We also book private parties of 10 or more with a group discount. Please contact us today to reserve your date. Vino & Van Gogh and is a great way to host a bridal shower, baby shower, birthday parties or any social gathering. We are located in Uptown Foley just across from Stacey’s Rexall at 116 W. Laurel Ave., Foley. For more information you may call 251-943-4381 or visit us online.

Monday, December 9 Friday, December 13 Best Selling Author Pat Conroy Event In this powerful and intimate memoir, the beloved bestselling author of “The Prince of Tides” and his father, the inspiration for “The Great Santini”, find some common ground at long last. “The Death of Santini” is at once a heart-wrenching account of personal and family struggle and a poignant lesson in how the ties of blood can both strangle and offer succor. Join us at The Venue in Fairhope for a book signing and author discussion with Pat Conroy. Tickets are $38.95 and include a signed first edition of

Honk! Jr. December 13th and 14th, 6:30pm and a 1:30 matinee on Saturday, December 14th. Daphne Elementary Auditorium, 2307 Main Street, Daphne HONK! JR. is the story of Ugly, an awkward duck whose gawky looks instantly incite prejudice from his family and neighbors. Separated from the farm and pursued by a hungry cat, Ugly must find his way home. Along his rollicking and harrowing journey, he not only discovers his true beauty and glorious destiny but also finds love and acceptance in all its forms. Witty and hilarious, but also deeply moving, HONK! JR. will treat you to equal amounts of laughter and tears.Tickets are $7 and available at A Fairhope Antiquery located at 100 N. Section Street, Fairhope, starting December 2nd. Disney Live! Presents Three Classic Fairy Tales Prepare to step into a world of wonder where wishing is only the beginning and dreams really do come true in Disney Live! presents Three Classic Fairy Tales. An enchanted quest featuring more than 25 Disney

www.easternshoreparents.com

cha Ent per Dec Goo and adv for ma the pla cho cos eve the tick eve fair 850 bba

S D

Ma Fun Eve ove Run wal at t the

bar h

h ill

characters, this all-new stage production from Feld Entertainment®, the producers of Disney On Ice, performs at Pensacola Bay Center in Pensacola, December 13th. Join Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy as they take audiences on a captivating journey and magically bring to life three timeless fairy tale adventures. Discover Snow White as she searches for her one true love; Cinderella getting ready for her magical night at the ball; and Belle, from “Beauty and the Beast”, as she finds happiness in the most unusual place. Anchored amidst a transforming set, captivating choreography, innovative lighting and breathtaking costumes, this authentically-woven tale of “happilyever-after” is a heart-warming Disney experience for the entire family. For more information or to purchase tickets visit http://www.pensacolabaycenter.com/ events/detail/disney-live-presents-three-classicfairy-tales. To reserve your group outing, please call 850-432-0800 ext. 252 or email Brittney Bagley at bbagley@smgpcola.com.

Individuals and families up to three members can compete. Participants will receive run packets that include t-shirts and other goodies. Trophies will be awarded three deep for all age groups in both the run and the walk. Special awards will be given for overall male, overall female, overall wheelchair, master male, master female, grand master male, grand master female, senior grand master male and senior grand master female runner and walkers. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Innerarity Point and Orange Beach Fire Departments. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Flora-Bama 17401 Perdido Key Blvd. Pensacola. Race fees are $20 if postmarked by Dec. 10th. $25 after Dec. 10th. $30 day of race. Family Registration: $48 if postmarked by Dec. 10th. $60 after Dec. 10th. $75 day of race. For more information call 850-492-0611 or email Jennifer@ florabama.com.

Saturday, December 28

5 Rivers Sunday Matinee: “Lord of the Ants” Come out and join us every Sunday for a free familyfriendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week, watch Alabama’s own E..O. Wilson in “Lord of the Ants.” For more information, 251-625-0814; www. Alabama5Rivers.com. 30945 Five Rivers Blvd, Spanish Fort.

Make it to the Line 4-Mile Run/Walk & 1-Mile Fun Run Every year after all of the Christmas festivities are over, we help take some of those extra pounds off. Run, jog, walk or crawl to the line at our 4-mile run/ walk and 1-mile fun run. The four miles course starts at the Flora-Bama heading west into Alabama, under the Perdido Pass bridge and back to the Flora-Bama.

Sunday, December 29

Looking Ahead...

January 4: The Fabulous Johnny C. presents Elvis’s Birthday Celebration The spirit of The King lives on with the “Memories of Elvis” featuring Johnny C. and the Memories Dancers

along with Don Stafford Show & Dance featuring some of the world’s greatest songs from some of the world’s greatest artists. Performance will be held from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. at the Loxley Civic Center, 4198 Municipal Park Drive, Loxley. Advance discount tickets at Ribs & Reds Restaurant $8, Tickets at door $10, Children $3 discount. For more information call 251-978-2462.

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.

Please send your calendar events to lynn@ easternshoreparents.com by the 15th of each month!

. & er, ng.

nee

ter e e,

s ng ue

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

A Page in a Book by Gerry Paige Smith

Discovering Friendship As very young and open-to-anything social creatures, children are typically quick to discover friends. But it’s less common for them to think about the dimensions of a special friendship, to look at their friendship through a different lens. While this concept is easier for adults who have the experience behind them to plumb the depths and dimensions of various friendships, children are just beginning to navigate the landscape of having a special friends and understanding how their buddy connections work. The following titles are sweet introductions that gently explore the layers of friendship that give them depth, meaning and hopefully longevity.

Ten Things I Love About You

by Daniel Kirk (Nancy Paulsen Books / Penguin) Rabbit is so happy that Pig is his best friend that he decides to make a list of ten things he loves about Pig. He makes a special trip to Pig’s house to announce his plan, and show off his first entry on the list (“I love Pig because he is very pink.”). Rabbit also asks for help with his list, but Pig is very busy. As Pig leads him to the door, Rabbit gets more good ideas to add to his list. As Rabbit returns for more help, Pig gently tries to send him elsewhere to work. But each nudge away just generates more ‘Things’ for Rabbit’s list. Just when it seems that Pig is about to lose patience, Rabbit discovers why Pig was so busy – he finds a list of “Ten Things I Love about Rabbit”. Their lists are very different, yet perfectly paired for two special friends. When children read the lists side-by-side, the yin and yang, the balance found in good friendships is clear to even the youngest hearts.

Ollie and Claire

by Tiffany Strelite Haber and Matthew Cordell (Philomel / Penguin) Ollie and Claire are almost inseparable friends. They do everything together; from yoga and running to picnics and swimming. Their daily routines are perfectly synchronized for bosom buddies, until Claire spots an advertisement for a “travel friend” to seek adventure and explore new places. She knows Ollie would never be bold enough to go, so she plans to arrive alone at the appointed time to meet a new friend and go on bold adventures without her best friend. But sometimes there are surprising layers to be discovered in a best friend. This comically illustrated picture book highlights the missed connections even good friends can have while it shares the joy of discovering new dimensions in an old friendship.

When Edgar Met Cecil

by Kevin Luthardt (Peachtree Publishers) Edgar had the best friend in Quincy. They loved to watch scary movies and to build things together. But when Edgar’s family has to move far away, he’s sad to leave Quincy behind and he worries about making new friends. Edgar’s fears seem to be coming true when he finds his new school populated by kids who are very different from him. All the kids seem strange…and the biggest, weirdest kid in his class won’t stop staring at him. Edgar’s anxiety grows as this big, scary kid stalks him around the school. But when they inadvertently startle each other on the playground, the big kid introduces himself as Cecil – and they quickly find common ground for a new friendship. Celebrating the ease of making a new friend even when the landscape changes, “When Edgar Met Cecil” is a great read for kids on the move. Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

www.easternshoreparents.com

ry s

s d he elf g he

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Frozen MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: C+ Sexual Content: ALanguage: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B+ The MPAA has rated Frozen PG for some action and mild rude humor. Anyone who lives where snow really falls knows Hollywood has a romantic notion of winter in the movie Frozen. It’s ridiculous to watch a young girl traipse up a mountainside in conditions that would have left her frostbitten, or worse, long before she reached her destination. That’s not the only misleading thing in this animated flick. A little snowman named Olaf (voice by Josh Gad) may have gotten most of the attention in the movie’s trailers but he is only a secondary character in this story. The title roles go to Anna (voice of Kristen Bell) and Elsa (voice of Idina Menzel), two sisters that will appear on store shelves in toy form just in time for the Christmas shopping season. Frozen loosely retells the story of The Snow Queen, the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen. As a child Elsa discovers she can create snow and ice with a flick of her wrist. Her younger sister Anna often begs Elsa to whip up a winter wonderland inside the family’s castle. However as Elsa grows older, she struggles to control her power. After a mishap injures Anna, the girls’ parents shut Elsa away while she tries to master her unusual abilities. Yet when the Mom and Dad are killed (creating the classic Disney orphan storyline), Elsa is forced to come out of her room for her coronation as the new Queen of Arendelle. Following the ceremony, Elsa must mingle among the people while trying hard to keep her icy hands under wraps. Unfortunately she is egged on by one of the visiting dignitaries and looses control of her emotions. Escaping into the mountains, she leaves a trail of frost and snow behind her. And before long the entire kingdom falls under the curse of winter. But Anna wants to bring her newly crowned sister back, so she sets off to find her with the help of an ice seller named Kristoff (voice by Jonathan Groff) and his reindeer. While there’s both a prince (voice by Santino Fontana) and a handsome woodsman in this story, don’t count on these guys to save the day. Frozen, like Tangled, Brave and The Princess and the Frog, is aimed at a generation who is more interested in girl power than in stories featuring charming gentlemen. Still this story has a positive sibling twist at the end. The script, like most princess movies, is relatively free of content concerns. Still, there are moments of peril. A pack of hungry wolves attack some travelers. A couple of thugs with crossbows also try to kill Elsa in hopes of breaking the wintery curse. And there are some terrifying moments with an abominable snow monster that resembles something more like a Transformer than the lovable Frosty the Snowman. Although Frozen might warm the hearts of older girls, parents of little princess wannabes may choose to chill out a while before introducing this new Disney royal.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: D+ Sexual Content: BLanguage: C Alcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated The Hunger Games: Catching Fire PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, some frightening images, thematic elements, a suggestive situation and language. For those new to the series, Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) won the 74th Hunger Games. It’s a yearly event where two tributes -- a girl and a boy -- are chosen from each of the 12 Districts that make up the country of Panem. The 24 teens from the impoverished outposts are shipped off to the opulent capitol where they are fed, preened and prepped for game day. The object of the contest, once it begins, is to be the last one standing. That means killing off all the other competitors. Unlike earlier games where only one winner remained, Katniss and Peeta both survive after pretending to be in love. Rather than watch them fight to the death, the television audience clamors for them both to live. Following the traumatic match, Katniss and Peeta return to their home in the coalmining town before beginning their Victor’s Tour of the districts. But the country’s President Snow (Donald Sutherland) detects a change in the atmosphere surrounding the games. He broods over the young pair’s popularity and the unrest it is causing in the outlying areas. Determined to put an end to the rising rebellions, he announces the tributes in the 75th Quarter Quell of the Hunger Games will be chosen from past winners of the game. On one hand that makes the violence seem a little less disturbing than watching children kill each other. However, The Hunger Games used quick camera shots to avoid most of the actual impact of the weapons. In this film audiences see arrows, knives and axes buried into opponents. Characters are shot, poisoned and electrocuted. And as a warning to other possible rebels, a young man is repeatedly flogged in a public square. Most teens will likely be more interested in Katniss’ love triangle involving Hollywood hunks Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth. Still, this movie comes with some intriguing insights into the distraction of media, the inequity of wealth and the origins of rebellion. For parents who take the time to watch this sequel with their teens, the film, with a little bit of prompting, might ignite some deep conversations about sacrifice, love and even the role of media.

What Parents need to know about The Hunger Games: Catching Fire...

Violence: Soldiers storm a crowd, knocking people aside and pulling an old man to the stage where he is shot in the head (not seen on screen). They later carry his dead body away. A resistor is tied to a post and flogged. His bloody back is shown. Other characters are hit with the whip or threatened with a gun. A man is attacked and beaten in order to cause psychological distress to a competitor. Arrows, axes, knives and other weapons are used in the Games. Some characters are electrocuted or killed with poison gas. Wild animals, floodwaters and other natural disasters injure or kill contestants. Bloody injuries are shown on several occasions. A character is badly burned. Characters are covered in blood from a “blood” rainstorm. A woman is attacked and stabbed. Characters experience other forms of psychological torment. Sexual Content: Young characters kiss on several occasions. A girl asks a boy to stay in her room with her after she wakes up from a nightmare. A female character undresses in front of others; some back nudity is seen. Language: The script contains at least two “bleeped” sexual expletives, some scatological slang, a few moderate and mild profanities, as well as terms of Deity. Alcohol / Drug Use: Liquor bottles litter a man’s house and he is shown drunk at the table. A couple of characters are given medical injections to relieve pain or cause sleep. A main character takes a drink of liquor to deal with a stressful revelation. Eastern Shore Parents I December 2013

What Parents need to know about Frozen...

Violence: The short film preceding this movie features frequent cartoon violence such as mean-spirited bullying, pitchforks and other common objects used as weapons. Brief moments of peril are included in the movie. Parents die at sea. Wolves chase and attack two travelers. Characters are impaled, attacked by a huge snow monster, and fall from a cliff. Characters shoot at a person with a crossbow. Sexual Content: A woman wears an off-the-shoulder dress with a high slit. A character takes off clothes in non-sexual context. Language: Some crude comments and name-calling are heard. Alcohol / Drug Use: Drinks are served at a social event.

www.easternshoreparents.com

Save for Christmas the Old Fashioned Way Open a 2014 Christmas Club Today!

800.423.7026 Member FDIC