Eastern Shore Parents July 2019 by KeepSharing

Military Mondays 10% off* First Responders EAT FREE Lunch on September 11th

FREE Meals* on Veteransâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Day for vets and military

Gulf Shores 251.948.2445

Mobile Causeway 251.626.2188

Live Music is back!

www.originaloysterhouse.com

Locals love

our

Fresh Salad www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine Bar eway

At the Caus

ESParentS JULY 19.indd 1

6/20/19 11:20 AM

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

C G

Ad ea

5 7

Al fo

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

July2019 44

Volume 12 Number 2

Columns

6 Publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note Lynn Knighton

8 Therapeutic Parenting

Co-Parenting Survival Guide Advice to help make divorce a little easier for you and your children.

50 76

Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

The Savvy Party Planner

Ideas for a stress free birthday celebration!

14 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

38 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between

66 72 64 74

Common Sense Media

42 Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Birthday Party Guide

All the local resources you need for their big day.

A Festive Mess

68 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

17 creative activities for an unforgettable birthday celebration.

Departments 10

On The Cover Scarlett Wright Killen (age 1) is the daughter of Alan and Lindsay Killen. Grandparents are Rance and Robbie Killen, Melissa Robinson, and Dale and Lori Robinson. Scarlett loves blueberries, watching Fancy Nancy, and spending time at the beach.

Bits and Pieces 16

School Bits 62

Book Reviews 74

Family Calendar 84

Movie Reviews

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Publisher’sNote The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source

Few things make my heart sing like hearing my girls laughing together. I usually can’t help but go in and sneak a peek to see what all the giggles are about and catch a glimpse of the moment. One night I heard this wonderful sound and a bit of a ruckus in the kitchen, so naturally I walked that way to check things out. The peaceful smile on my face as I walked down the hall quickly turned into eyebrows raised and mouth wide open. What I happened upon can only be described as a whipped cream explosion. Yes, my kids, my kitchen and even the dogs where covered in whipped cream! I stood there shocked and could only get out, “What? How?...Who..?” and all three girls pointed behind me. I turned around only to find my husband, also covered in whipped cream with a handful of evidence. I couldn’t help but shake my head and laugh. While I didn’t love the idea of the sticky mess covering my home and my family, it is a great memory my kids share. Being a little more on the creative side, mess is not something that I am completely averse to, but I do prefer it to be a little more controlled. We have had days where the girls put on their bathing suits and we gave them washable, non-toxic, paints and let them paint themselves, rocks, sticks, etc. Once they were tired of playing in the paints we turned on the sprinkler and handed them some soap/shampoo and got it all cleaned up, including themselves. They thought that it was really cool that it counted as their bath too. This type of unstructured playtime if not only fun, but it is also important to their development as Sandi Schwartz explains in Why Kids Need Unstructured Free Play on page 70. If the madness of a mess is something you would rather save for special occasions or if your child is someone who appreciates the fun found in getting dirty, then flip over to page 64 where Christina Katz gives us some ideas in her article, A Festive Mess: 17 Creative Birthday Activities For An Unforgettable Party. Anytime you are working with a mess, make sure you do the prep work to contain the mess so you have less stress. Also make sure activities are age appropriate and necessary safety precautions like goggles, etc. are used when necessary. If you are looking for more party ideas then you have definitely come to the right place. This issue is our annual BIRTHDAY PARTY ISSUE! This much anticipated issue includes a must have Birthday Party Resource Guide on page 50. The guide includes places to party, resources for cakes and treats, businesses that rent entertainment and entertainment that comes to you! We hope that this guide will ease the party planning process. In addition to her party ideas above, Katz has also provided us with a helpful checklist in The Savvy Party Planner: Countdown To A Stress-free Birthday Celebration that can be found on page 46. Speaking of celebrations, this month we celebrate the independence of our country. Families all over the nation will spend time with family and friends cooking out, heading to the beach, and possibly watching a fireworks display. Whatever you do to celebrate, keep in mind how lucky we are to share the freedoms that we do and how those freedoms are ones that many around the world can only dream of. And a special thank you to the men and women who make these freedoms possible. Happy 4th!

Lynn

lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

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

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Christa Weinberg Contributing Writers Christina Katz Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Laura Reagan-Porras Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Robert L. Rux, M.D. Sandi Schwartz Gerry Paige Smith

Cover Photography Stephanie Hanway www.StephanieHanwayPhotography.com

President Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com Advertising Opportunities Lynn Knighton ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099 Accounts Manager Eleanor Williams 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 2017 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

Our for Con ﬂex With som

ource

on rse, nity. nity ss.

y by , r

SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT Our full service orthodontist practice offers treatments for all ages as well as Sleep Apnea and TMJ treatments. Consultations are always complimentary and we offer ďŹ&#x201A;exible appointment and interest free payment plans. With three locations to serve you, there is always something to smile about at Glass Orthodontics.

BEFORE

AFTER

in d. ne are view t of

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Jerk Adolescents? “Because once they turn 12 years old, they turn into jerks for awhile…” I won’t forget those words, spoken to me years ago by the father of a good friend. In all of my naïveté as a young mother, I had asked him why he chose 12 years old to take each of his grandchildren on a special trip. At the time I had four boys under five, so I hadn’t yet grasped this age of adolescence. My world was still consumed with Batman Underoos, matchbox cars and whose turn it was to drive the power wheel. It wasn’t until my oldest turned 12 that those words came racing back into my stream of consciousness like the scream of a siren. Here it comes, “12….jerk….” And though I didn’t experience some kind of cosmic shift on his 12th birthday, what I did notice was my son starting ever so gently to pull away. Year by year, bit by bit, in small subtle ways, I was slowly no longer “his person”. It was never more evident than the day I noticed the picture

of him and I together in Yellowstone was no longer his screen saver on his iTouch. (Cry) It was no longer me that he turned to when he needed advice, or a hug, or some of my “sage” counsel. It was me, however, that he still turned to for a grilled cheese sandwich or a baseball uniform that needed the dirt out, or permission to go out with his friends. What I began to realize was that I needed to make adjustments in our relationship just as much as he did. If he was going to grow and shift and get ready for the next stage, then so was I. So instead of hanging on with clenched fists dying at the altar of how things used to be, I figured out where he needed me now and went with it. What I quickly realized was that I needed to be his soft place to land. In a world of middle school drama, temptations and stress, he needed somewhere to be where he could breathe. And when you look at your adolescent through the lens of someone who is struggling to

navigate the rocky ground of life, instead of looking at him through the lens of someone who is just trying to test your patience, you shift your response and there is victory there. So, if you are knocking on the door of having a 12 year old or in the midst of raising an adolescent, just remember, this is normal. This is healthy. This is the process we need them to walk through since we are not trying to raise a 40-yearold who sleeps on our couch. While still under the parental authority of our home, while still under the protection of our presence, we need them to start to stand up. So this process, though admittedly painful at times, is necessary and what they were designed to do. So I say this...Jerk? No. Grown up in the making? Yes. Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior, and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to help mitigate negative behaviors. She travels the state speaking at various conferences on behavior and parenting and is a therapist for Kids To Love Foundation. Sonia is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of whom were internationally adopted, and is also a foster parent.

Quality Care Close to Home Since 1985 Brian W. Hixon, M.D. | Frank K. Hixon, M.D. | William B. Norris, M.D.

Pediatric ENT Patients Nasal & Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Allergy Testing & Treatment Ear & Mastoid Surgery Thyroid & Salivary Gland Surgery Airway & Voice Disorders Cancer of the Head & Neck

CALL US AT (251) 928-0300 FOR AN APPOINTMENT Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

, e

ar-

e, d

r’s n he

Personalized homes FOR SEASONED BUYERS.

Truland Homes embraces the personalized touch of a seasoned homeowner by allowing you the opportunity to enjoy a tailored building experience. It’s not just about quality craftsmanship, it is the philosophy of the ideal home and nobody knows that better than you.

Visit trulandhomes.com to learn more or Text ‘truland’ to 31996 to join our VIP text list to be the first to know when your dream home is ready. 9

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

D 4

Independence Day Street Party at the Wharf/Main Street

Join us for our Independence Day Street Party on Saturday, July 6, 5-9 PM, for the ultimate freedom celebration! Activities for the whole family include our surf simulator, interactive arena, and famous bubble zone! Let’s not forget the adorable animals to pet! Trampoline Jumpee & Camel Rides $5. Our kid-friendly activities are sponsored by Christian Life - The Island Church - Orange Beach. We will be handing out American flags to wave when the sun sets, and our iconic palm trees will sparkle a patriotic theme of red, white, and blue! Set up shop on Main Street for the perfect fireworks viewing spot presented by Columbia Southern University. Visit their tent to grab a pair of 3D glass while supplies last. Stay for a little while longer to see the patriotic Spectra Sound and Light Show! Admission is FREE.

Bay Bites Food Truck Festival

Join us on Wednesday, July 24 from 5-9 PM at Cooper Riverside Park for Bay Bites Food Truck Festival. Hosted by Mobile Baykeeper's Young Advisory Council (YAC) Leadership Committee, Bay Bites is an annual food truck festival benefiting our work for clean water, clean air, and healthy communities. Enjoy delicious food from the area's best local food trucks, craft beer and wine, live music, lawn games, and a variety of kids’ entertainment options to come on the beautiful riverfront of downtown Mobile. For more information, please visit www.mobilebaykeeper.org/bay-bites.

Ju 9:0 P pa

p mu

re a th S

Be Your Best Self Boot Camp for Girls

Distinguished Young Women of Baldwin County invites 3rd – 6th grade girls to participate in its "Be Your Best Self" Boot camp and 7th and 8th grade girls for "Boot Camp Elite". The camps will meet August 17th at kbdanz studio in Summerdale and August 24th at Coastal Alabama Community College from 10:00 - 12:30. Both camps will include a performance on stage at the 2019 program on September 7, two program tickets, group photos, refreshments and a boot camp t-shirt, and more. Registration is $30 which goes to the scholarship fund. For more info contact: Diane (BYBS) at dianefoster.elberta@gmail.com (251-979-2358) or for Elite contact Deeon at deeonrosemay@gmail.com (251-622-0051).

Free Meals for Children this Summer

Feeding the Gulf Coast is partnering with local community organizations to offer free meals to children, 18 and under, in lower Alabama this summer through the Summer Meals Program. The program is supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and is designed to fill the nutritional gap that is left when children are out of school during summer months and do not have access to free or reduced price breakfasts and lunches at school. This program has a significant impact on children and families during the summer months in lower Alabama and across the Central Gulf Coast. To learn more about the Summer Meals Program and find a site in your community, visit the food bank’s website at https://www.feedingthegulfcoast.org/learn-more/ourprograms/child-nutrition-programs or text “FOOD” to 877-877. Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Celebration

It’s the 50th Anniversary of Apollo 11! On July 16, 1969 Apollo 11 sent three Americans to the moon! Let’s celebrate space science! The Exploreum Science Center will have space themed activities for all ages. Build your own rocket, explore the Star Lab, watch Apollo 11 Mission clips in the Dome Theater and much more. AirBus Foundation Discovery Space Mission to the Moon activities and NASA activities throughout! Don’t miss Animal Tails presentation of Creatures of the Galaxy at 11 AM and 1 PM. Please visit www.exploreum.com for more information. www.easternshoreparents.com

ke in on acc b be In Na fr

ga co

Wa g

E gu

ay, M e ood ed r's ncil

es uck

s sic,

4-H Master Gardeners Kids' Day

Dig into FUN with the Master Gardeners and 4-H of Baldwin County! You are invited to join the fun on July 26 from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM for rock painting, plant scavenger hunt, food from the garden, butterflies lesson and art, and the always fun watermelon seed spitting contest! Lunch is provided. Admission is $5 per family: an adult must accompany each family. Lessons are great for all ages, ages 8-14 encouraged. To preregister, call 251-937-7176 or email sfb0010@ aces.edu by July 19. The event will be held at the Gulf Coast Regional Research & Experiment Station, 8300 Highway 104, Fairhope, AL (1/2 mile east of Highway 98).

sit

e he al e

m ).

11 s s

GulfQuest 4th of July Celebration

At GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico, family-friendly festivities for all ages will take place from 2-9 p.m. Enjoy multiple activities on the Riverfront Promenade overlooking the Mobile River to keep the entire family entertained, including an inflatable Tropical Water Slide for children. For only $5 per child, attendees will enjoy unlimited access to this massive water slide, so be sure to bring your towel and sunscreen. Activities will be located outside on the Riverfront Promenade. In addition to the outdoor festivities, GulfQuest National Maritime Museum exhibits will be open from 2-7 p.m. with a $5 per person admission. Guests can enjoy 90 interactive exhibits, simulators, theaters and displays. Exhibit galleries are housed on a life-sized replica of a container ship and are located throughout eight decks in the 90,000 sq. ft. museum. $5 per person tickets for the waterslide or exhibit admission may be purchased via the following links: Waterslide: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2019gulfquest-4th-of-july-celebration-waterslidetickets-61244876073 Exhibits: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2019gulfquest-4th-of-july-celebration-exhibits-accesstickets-61242712602 11

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

7th Annual Pelican Paddle

The Weeks Bay Foundation will host the 7th annual Pelican Paddle, a canoe, kayak, and paddle board race, on Saturday, August 3, on beautiful Weeks Bay. Pelican Paddle is a fun, family-oriented, 3.5-mile race that’s open to all ages and skill levels. Plus, there’s a seven-mile pro option for the serious paddlers, and a non-competitive Eco-tour of Weeks Bay that includes a guided paddle to a Bald Eagle nest. New this year are Master Class divisions (ages 60 and above) for both Men’s and Women’s Solo Kayak. The race begins at 9 a.m., and the Eco-tour begins shortly after the racers take off. Advance registration is $30 per paddler or $70 per family. Day-of-race registration is $35 per paddler and $85 per family. A family can include up to two adults and up to four minors under age 18. All registrants (21 and over) will receive drink tickets for two complimentary Serda Brewing beers. Loaner gear, provided by Fairhope Boat Company, will also be available, free of charge, on a first-come, first-served basis, but must be reserved in advance. Participants interested in borrowing gear must call the Foundation at 251-990-5004 BEFORE registering for the race to ensure boats are available. For more information and to register for race or Eco-tour, call 251-990-5004, or register online at www.weeksbay.org/events/pelican-paddle/. Advance registration will close August 2, at 4 p.m. Race-day registration and event check-in begins at 7:30 a.m., August. 3.

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

2019 Flavors of the South Food and Wine Showcase

Join the Central Baldwin Chamber of Commerce for the 2019 Flavors of the South held to showcase food and wine from local restaurants and caterers. Come sample a variety of food and drink while listening to music and participating in our silent auction. Individual tickets are $30 or a table of 8 is $200 and are available at the Central Baldwin Chamber of Commerce office. This special event will be held July 18, from 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. at the Baldwin County Coliseum in Robertsdale. Donations items are also being accepted for the silent auction. For more information or to reserve tickets, call the Chamber at 251-947-2626 or visit centralbaldwin.com.

www.easternshoreparents.com

Pr g

o H ri

T ac

July Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday

Alabama’s 14th annual sales tax holiday for school-related items begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 19, and ends at midnight Sunday, July 21, giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, books and clothing free of the state’s four percent sales or use tax. All of this information including a downloadable poster, cities/counties that are participating, guidelines on what is and is not included and even more information can be found at: alabamaretail.org/resources/salestaxholidays/ back-to-school/

d n a al ial m. . e ve it

22nd Annual Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation Professional Rodeo

Professional cowboys and cowgirls from all over the country are getting ready for their favorite Southeastern Rodeo, the 22nd Annual Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation Professional Rodeo on Thursday through Saturday, August 1- 3 at the City of Foley Horse Arena. This Rodeo features exciting events including bull riding, barrel racing, bareback riding, calf roping, team roping, steer wrestling, break away roping and much more. The Rodeo kicks off each night at 8:00 PM with FREE children’s activities beginning nightly at 6:00 PM. General admission tickets are $15.00 for adults, $8.00 for children ages 3-12 years old, and free for ages 2 and under. Tickets are available for pre-sale at the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation at 819 North McKenzie Street in Foley, Summerdale Western Store on Highway 59 in Summerdale, and Frances Holk-Jones State Farm Insurance at 315 E. Laurel Avenue in Foley. Tickets will also be available each night at the gate of the Rodeo. Pre-rodeo festivities in conjunction with the rodeo that are free to the public will all be held at the Foley Horse Arena. The Queens’ Horsemanship Contest is Thursday, July 25th which will include the crowning of the Queens. Porterhouse BBQ will be on site at 6:00 PM and Horsemanship kicks off at 6:30 PM. Visit peerhelpers.org, follow on Facebook at Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation or call 251-971-3633 for more information.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

Ear Infections and You One of the most common problems in the pediatric world is ear infections. Everybody has had at least one in their life and everybody has taken the “pink medicine” to get it better. But times have changed and the approach to ear infection management has changed as well. Today, we will talk about why kids get ear infections, signs and symptoms of a current infection, treatment options (even when not to treat!), and the dreaded need for “tubes.” So first, why does my baby always get ear infections and other kids rarely have them? Well, let’s think about a few things. First, did you or your spouse have ear infections or other sinus problems as a child or adult? Family history is a good predictor of increased ear infections mainly because of the genes you pass on to your child that determine the anatomical structure of their ears. Our ears are a complex series of bones, nerves and drainage tubes that are responsible for hearing. If the drainage tubes are small, tortuous, or obstructed, then ear infections can occur. Now the obstruction can be from several things. Snot or congestion from allergies, viruses, or bacterial infections can be a culprit as well as enlarged tonsils. Once the drainage tubes are blocked, then the fluid behind the ear drum can’t drain, and infection can set in. So, now we know why, but how do I know if my child has an ear infection? First, a child or infant pulling on their ears without any other signs or symptoms is rarely an ear infection. That symptom by itself usually represents teething or a sleepy habit or just discovering

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

ones ears! So, what signs are concerning for an ear infection? Well, you have to look for direct and indirect signs. They usually have congestion for several days and sometimes fever is found as well. But oftentimes, you see crankiness, waking up frequently at night, decreased feeding, maybe vomiting, and/or just an overall change in temperament in your child. So, what now? My baby has an ear infection and has kept me up all night. Well, most infants and young children need to be treated with antibiotics and oftentimes need special drops for pain management until the infection can be resolved. Now, the issue over the last twenty years or so has been an overuse of the “pink medicine” or Amoxicillin. While still a great medicine, the treatment plan has changed. Higher doses and other classes of antibiotics are also used to rid the ears of infection and hopefully not have continued resistance by the bacteria to the antibiotics. But what about older kids? And what about kids who don’t have symptoms? Oftentimes, these children can be observed off antibiotics for several days to see if any new symptoms arise or if the child improves on their own. These decisions can be discussed with your healthcare provider. So now you have an infection, but it won’t go away. Your child took every dose of medicine as prescribed and it’s still there! Well, as per above, sometimes your anatomy or continued obstruction from congestion prevents complete clearance. Also, sometimes the bacteria that are causing the infection have some resistance to

the antibiotic and need another one. But won’t all these antibiotics hurt my child or weaken their immune system? No! If a child has an infection, then the antibiotics are appropriate and will work with your immune system to fight off the infection. The only times they are not indicated are if the child has just a viral illness and then treated with antibiotics. So, what now? My child continues to have ear infections and now I’m worried about what this is doing to my child and what about hearing loss? These are valid concerns that need to be addressed with your healthcare provider, but overall, a few ear infections do not indicate a need for “tubes.” But, infections that are unable to be cleared, a child that has abnormal hearing, or multiple infections over a period of months might indicate the need for an evaluation by a specialist. And remember, just because you see a specialist doesn’t mean you have to get tubes! Ear infections are an unfortunate part of growing up, but you now you are armed with info. As always, consult aap.org and talk with your healthcare provider! 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

t heir n,

e d

e t ng

e ng,

e es! ng

ol nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools

Robertsdale High School Continues Memorial Day Tradition

Cadets with Robertsdale High School’s Navy JROTC wanted to inspire patriotism this past Memorial Day by continuing an annual tradition called “Operation Patriot59”. Thousands of flags, more than 5000 to be exact, were placed on the front lawn of Robertsdale’s campus to commemorate the lives lost in the Vietnam War. Each year organizers pick a different American conflict to memorialize. Each flag represents 10 American casualties with 58,220 fallen military members being remembered this year. Those with the Navy JROTC say they hope “seeing the toll” from this war impacted people in a very significant way.

FEEF Summer Camp at Fairhope Intermediate

Thanks to FEEF, summer campers were able to Go HiTech with hands-on experiences using the Engineering Design Process to work with Lego Robotics and Ozobots. The instructor Ms. Trina Jackson and her assistant Miss Mary-Bradley Knighton challenged the campers to be creative and construct their very own robot and bring it to life using a power hub, motor, or sensors. They also wrote programs for their robots to follow. In addition to Robots, the campers explored with Ozobots and learned how to color code and draw programs for their Ozobot to follow. High-Five to the Campers for going above and beyond with their robotic challenges. The camp took place at Fairhope Intermediate School from May 28 - 31.

Foley’s Ready for the Summer!

Mrs. Haye's 3rd graders at Foley Elementary were ready for summer vacation to begin and showed it off in a big way!

Gulf Shoes ES Donates Pop Tabs to Ronald McDonald House

Thank you for all of your Pop Tab donations at Gulf Shores Elementary School. Ms. Nelson, with Ronald McDonald House of Mobile, visited with fifth grade to collect pop tabs. These Pop Tabs will be recycled to help pay for costs of running the Ronald McDonald House. What a great way to give back! Save your tabs this summer. We will be collecting again next school year. Pictured (l to r) are Jamir Alcius, Jazzlynn Ortiz, Mahetsi Lopez, Mrs. Nelson (Ronald McDonald House Representative), Anastazya Ramos, Samantha Adney, and Matthew Pressly. Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

Fairhope Teacher Named Baldwin County Music Educator of the Year

Mrs. Salley, FMS band teacher, was recognized at a surprise assembly as the Baldwin County Music Teacher of the Year by Blues Angel Music, Fairhope. At the assembly in her honor, Mr. Dan Signor and Mr. Dan Fugate from Blues Angel Music in Fairhope presented a plaque to Mrs. Salley and a check for $1,000 for her to use for her band program. Mrs. Tiffany Goldschmidt, Baldwin County's Curriculum and Instruction Supervisor, was also in attendance at the assembly. The guitar classes performed, and a reception was held afterwards for Mrs. Salley, our special guests, and teachers. Pictured are Mrs. Angie Hall, Principal and Mrs. Jennifer Salley, FMS Band Teacher. www.easternshoreparents.com

tra

D lo

y In

h at .

a her

Mrs. e y,

Gulf Shores Student’s Poetry Published in Book

Gulf Shores Middle School student, Emily Stupica's poem “Masquerade” has been published in a national poetry contest and will be in the Spring 2019 book “Creative Communication: A Celebration of Poets”. This is a huge honor, as most students are not invited to be published. This publication brings together the best student authors in the United States.

Baldwin County Virtual School Adding New Location in Daphne for 2019-20 School Year

Sloane Hopkins, BCVS 2019 graduate and SGA president: When I tell people I attend Baldwin County Virtual School, I get one of two responses. Most of the time, people say “Oh my gosh! That’s so cool! Tell me more!” If that is not their instant response, I brace myself for the torrent of “virtual” jokes heading my way. “Did you have prom with virtual reality headsets?” “How are you supposed to virtually drive to class?” For the former crowd, I am always excited to explain the ins and outs of virtual school life- my love for the flexibility of this education. For the latter I grin and bear it and say “Oh my gosh I’ve NEVER heard anyone say that before.” Each school year, Baldwin County Virtual School students have the opportunity to answer these questions, and more importantly, tell their stories. These stories demonstrate the wide-ranging reasons families choose a virtual education: traveling sports teams and extended family travel, budding acting and dancing careers, difficult family situations and challenging medical diagnoses, or a desire to get ahead in their education to enter college or the work force sooner. BCVS boasts locations throughout Baldwin County for test proctoring and mentoring: Bay Minette, Fairhope, and Gulf Shores. For 2019-20, the Baldwin County Virtual School will be adding a new, fourth location in Daphne, an amazing building with 21st century architecture and dedicated space for individual tutoring, club meetings, administrative tasks, science classrooms, school-wide events and much more. The move to the new location will increase the variety of ways teachers support students and bring them together for field trips and other learning activities. Designed to meet the individual needs of Baldwin County’ children, BCVS students complete rigorous coursework at home and take tests in one of our locations. Students can arrange their course selections to fit their busy schedules while still meeting the requirements for an accredited Alabama High School diploma. BCVS staff mentors students though the transition to virtual learning with in-person and virtual meetings. Students can participate in ROTC, band, and athletics at their zoned, traditional school as well as take dual enrollment courses to begin their college careers. For more information, contact us at virtualschool@bcbe.org.

A C L E A R PAT H f o r P OT E N T I A L The mind must be trained to analyze situations and respond decisively. For more than 125 years, UMS-Wright has instilled the importance of a sharp mind, healthy body, and sound spirit. Excelling at their passions is the standard for our graduates.

CARRIE CROOK, CLASS OF 2013 University of Pennsylvania Women’s Soccer, 2013–2017 Tulane University Medical Student

UMS-Wright.org | 251.479.6551

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools

Christ the King Catholic School P.E. Coach Receives Grant

Congratulations to CTKCS P.E. Coach Lopez who was awarded an $1112 grant from Thomas Hospital Infirmary Health and Wells Fargo based upon our family participation in the Spring Fever Chase in March. Coach Lopez will use the grant for new game equipment and soccer goals for our PE program. Thanks to everyone who participated in the Spring Fever Chase helping us receive this funding to further enhance our Physical Education program!

St. Michael’s Student Attends Boys State Alabama

St. Michael's congratulates rising senior Noah Nelson for representing St. Michael’s at Boys State Alabama at the University of Alabama May 26- June 1. It was a busy week of learning leadership skills, making new friends from all over the state, and participating in service projects. Thank you American Legion for an incredible program!

Camp Bayside Held Weekly through August 2

Bayside Academy is pleased to host its annual Camp Bayside again this summer. Campers aged 5–12 are welcome and do not have to be enrolled at Bayside to attend. Sessions run from 7:15 a.m.–6:00 p.m. weekdays through Friday, August 2. Daily and weekly rates are available. For additional information or to register, please visit https://www.baysideacademy.org/studentlife/summercamps.

accepting new patients

Dr. Brittne� Bicksler

SPECIALIZING IN FAMILY PRACTICE AND OBSTETRICS

Dr. Bicksler is a graduate of Virginia Tech and received her medical degree from Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) in Blacksburg, Virginia. She completed her residency training in family practice at McLeod Regional Medical Center in South Carolina and her fellowship training in obstetrics at Spartanburg Medical Center in South Carolina. + Board certified in family medicine + Member of the American Academy of Family Physicians + Certified provider in Advanced Life Support Obstetrics

251-937-5377 2002 Medical Center Drive Bay Minette, AL 36507 Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

a h Til on

Bayshore Christian School Student Accepted to Rural Health Scholars Program

Central Christian Summer Day Camp

Central Christian Summer Day camp is in full swing as the children are enjoying so many fun things. They go bowling, swimming, VBS, crafts, trips to the museum, the Factory and they even they attend a weekly summer movie.

Congratulations to Bayshore Christian School Senior, Tillery French, for being accepted to the Rural Health Scholars Program at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. This five week program is exclusively for rising high school seniors from rural Alabama communities and provides students with opportunities to pursue careers in healthcare professions while experiencing college firsthand. Tillery is among 25 students from across the state who will live on campus, attend college classes, and participate in healthcare related seminars and field trips.

Spanish Fort HS Students Earn Awards from National Spanish Exam

Congratulations to all the students who took the National Spanish Exam last month. The National Spanish Exam is a national exam that tests Achievement (vocabulary and grammar knowledge) and Proficiency (reading and listening comprehension) in the Spanish language. Tens of thousands take this exam every year nation-wide: there were 9 students who obtained Honorary Mention; 6 students with Bronze Medals: Ragan Grantham, Ty Williams, Carlos GarcĂa-Roman, Kyle Gaviria, Christian Barraza and Makinley Ott; 4 students received Silver Medal: Jasmine Allen, Bennett Booth, Carolina Triboni and Rosario GarcĂa. Megan Wood finished in the top 2 percentile nation-wide and received a Gold Medal. Mr. Sebastiani is very proud for your participation and accomplishment!

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools

Local Students Named Winners of State Piano Auditions

Bay Minette Elementary Announces Employee of the Year

The Alabama Music Teachers Association announced the winners of the state piano auditions held on May 10 and 11 at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Ian Poole was named a winner in the Division I category for students ages 10 and 11, and Ruthie Wilson was selected a winner in the Division II category for students ages 12-14. Both students qualified for the state auditions by participating in the District I auditions held in Mobile on April 13 and making Outstanding ratings in both performance and theory. As a result of being designated winners, they have been invited to perform in a special recital at the state conference in June in Huntsville. Poole is a student of Tammy Dennis and Wilson studies with Laurie Gruenloh. Both teachers have their studios in Silverhill. Other Baldwin County students who attended the state auditions were Andersen Luc, Owen Poole, Jonah Drach, Forest Smith, Ty Hartman, David Klimjack, David Klimjack, Elijah Robinson, Ethan Robinson, Josiah Gardner, Marygrace Sebastian, Katie Smith, Elizabeth Chen and Paul Mercer

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

Bay Minette Elementary School recently announced Debbie Rigby as the 2018-19 Employee of the Year. Mrs. Rigby was chosen by her co-workers as being someone they can’t do without. She has been employed with the school for over eighteen years and has served in many capacities. Presently she is the receptionist and all around “mom” for teachers, staff, and students. We love you Mrs. Rigby! BMES principal Laura Moorer, Superintendent Eddie Tyler, Debbie Rigby, and assistant principal Matthew Craig present Mrs. Rigby with a plaque made at the school using their 3-D printer.

www.easternshoreparents.com

m”

e th

Bay Minette Elementary Fun Run Winners

Bay Minette Elementary School recognized this year’s Fun Run winners at the recent Awards Day. These fast students were the top runners at this year’s annual Field Day Fun Run from fourth through sixth grades. Fourth grade girls Fun Run winners: 1st Brooke McGowin, 2nd Ryann Wallace, 3rd Madisyn Williams, 4th Zackeria Mallory, 5th Olivia Overbey and Shaniya Williams. Fourth grade boys Fun Run winners: 1st Ethan Howard, 2nd Gunter Smith, 3rd Treagan James, 4th Kendrick Johnson, 5th Ben Thompson. Fifth grade girls Fun Run winners: 1st Stori Palmer, 2nd Sophia Propst, 3rd Melanie Cervantes, 4th Laniya Hart (not pictured), 5th Alonna Crenshaw. Fifth grade boys Fun Run winners: 1st Bryden Brown, 2nd Joe Thomas, 3rd Braedyn Marion, 4th Antwoin Sledge, 5th LeJames Daniels.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

BMMS Receives Power to Play Grant

Bay Minette Middle School received a Power to Play Grant from Alabama Power Foundation. These $2,500 grants are awarded to school athletics and arts programs across Alabama each year to help increase participation in their respective programs. Tripp Ward, left, presented the grant award to Principal Zack Wigstrom. BMMS will use these funds to purchase equipment and supplies for its basketball and cross-country programs. Since 2014, Power to Play has awarded more than 100 grants totaling more than $200,000 to support school sports and arts programs. The Alabama Power Foundation was form in 1989 through the generosity of Alabama Power stockholders. The foundation focuses on education, community and civic development, arts and cultural enrichment, health and human services and environmental stewardship.

Autauga County Schools

Bayside’s School Supply Drive Benefits Foster Families

Bayside Academy rising senior Elsa Engeriser spent several hours at the end of the school year collecting unused supplies from students. The supplies were then sent to the Foster Parents Association of Baldwin County, a 501(c)(3) organization, to support foster families in Baldwin County for the next school year. The highlights of the collection include the following: • 44 books, textbooks, and workbooks • 38 packages of lined and graph paper • 37 packs of notecards • 30 binders and folders • 6 book bags • 35 notebooks 31 boxes of • tissues • 17 packs of dividers • 7 locker shelves • Expo markers, highlighters, pencils, and crayons. We are so proud of Elsa for taking the initiative to collect these supplies and to give back to the community as she prepared for summer.

Now Enrolling K4-12th! Call to schedule a tour!

23050 US Highway 98 | Fairhope, AL 36532 | (251)929-0011 | www.bayshorechristian.org Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

S on con

M th the o

Baldwin County High School Students Attend Boys State

Five students from Baldwin County High School were invited to take part in the American Legion Alabama Boys State, a leadership program for young men who have completed their junior year of high school. BCHS representatives included Tanner Smith, Jeffrey Johnson, Wesley Lockhart, Cahill Harris and Clay Thompson. These students were sponsored by American Legion Post 188 in Bay Minette. The week-long program is held on the campus of the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Boys State provides delegates with a working knowledge of how governments function on the city, county and state levels. Participation is by invitation only and delegates from across the state are selected by their school faculty and community leaders based on their demonstration of leadership, hard work, strong morals, and motivation. At Boys State, students build new friendships, participate in a mock government, and hear from an array of Alabama leaders. Delegates join interest groups that focus on their individual career goals. In these educational breakout sessions, delegates not only learn from lectures, but develop skill sets through field trips and hands-on exercises. Delegates also have activity time to participate in recreational activities such as sports, music, drama and news media.

Bayside Senior Awarded Honorable Mention in NPR’s Student Podcast Challenge

Bayside Academy senior Mary Helene Hall has been awarded an Honorable Mention in NPR’s Student Podcast Challenge. Nearly 6,000 entries were received from all over the country, and only one winner was announced from grades 5–8 and only one winner from high school. Around 300 were considered honorable mentions, and Mary Helene’s was one of those outstanding podcasts. Journalists at NPR flagged the honorable mention podcasts as those that stood out as especially well-done. Mary Helene’s podcast, Generation Z and the Path Towards Acceptance, was an individual production that included a second grade class and interviews with a senior student and two faculty members. In the podcast, Mary Helene “explores how tolerance and acceptance change through generations by investigating the culture of her school. She is able to obtain diverse perspectives by not only interviewing actual people on either end of Generation Z, but also by asking educators what their views are.” To listen to Mary Helene’s podcast, please use this link: https://soundcloud.com/drobertson-208307323/gen-z-mary-helene-hall-npr-podcast. Pictured, Mary Helene reading to second graders.

coastalallergyasthma.com 23

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools

Christ the King Catholic School 5th Graders Get Visit from Local Author

5th grade students were honored by a visit from Mr. Watt Key and his brother Mr. Reid Key. Watt is an author who has written a number of books including â&#x20AC;&#x153;Alabama Moonâ&#x20AC;?, a class reading selection. Mr. Watt Key discussed his book and part of the inspiration for the book, and Mr. Reid Key spoke about their childhood and some of the things Watt did as a child and young man, that Reid can recognize in the books. We thank them both for visiting our 5th graders as part of a Literature class lesson.

BCHS Tigerettes Learn New Dance Skills at Clinic

The Baldwin County High School Tigerettes spent a Saturday taking part in an exclusive clinic with Alexis Weeks, a former NFL cheerleader and current NBA dancer. The dance team members received an intensive training in technique and will be implementing some new skill sets this year. The award-winning dance team is coached by Elizabeth Bridges Byrd, a former Tigerette and Dixie Darling. #dancelikeaLadyTiger

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

T C H

www.easternshoreparents.com

c t r

t eid

,a ed e .

Gulf Shore HS Students Win Multiple Visual Arts Awards This Year

Gulf Shore High School had an amazing art season with students winning several Visual Arts awards at the Annual County High School Art Show at Coastal CC, the Annual Night of the Arts Talent Show, the VFW Patriotic National Youth in Art Contest, as well as the Zydeco Youth in Art Contest. County Show: Best in Show – Lilliana Betz; Excellence Awards – Addison Bullard, Carlee Spellman, Guilia DeSouza and Victoria Williams; Merit Awards – Kylee Kubat and Samantha Higgins. Night of the Arts: Photography: 1st Jessica Stevens, 2nd Olivia Callahan, 3rd Rebecka Hennis, Hon Mention 1- Anna Koonce, Hon mention 2 - Aelin Roman. Pencil/Marker/Charcoal: 1st Lilliana Betz, 2nd Erin Miller, 3rd Jacob Gibbons, Hon men. 1 - Lilliana Betz, Hon men. 2 - Molly Griffin. Painting: 1st Lilliana Betz, 2nd Samantha Higgins, 3rd Guilia DeSouza, Hon men 1 - Molly Griffin, Hon men 2 - Jacob Gibbons. Mixed Media: 1st Guilia DeSouza, 2nd Trinity Forrest, 3rd Guilia DeSouza, Hon Men 1 - Trinity Telarico. Digital Art: 1st Carmon Dyken, 2nd Rebecka Hennis, 3rd Addison Bullard, Hon Men 1 - Rebecka Hennis. VFW Patriot Youth in Art: 1st Place Local – Lilliana Betz; 3rd Place State; 3rd Place Local – Addison Bullard. Zydeco Festival Youth in Art: Best in Show – Lilliana Betz; 1st Place – Addison Bullard. Pictured is Lilliana Betz, Best In Show

Bayshore 6th Graders Visit Washington D.C.

Each year, the sixth grade classes at Bayshore Christian School take a trip to Washington D.C. in May as a culmination of their study on American History. In preparation for the trip, students study the history behind the sites they will be viewing and the role of artists in designing several of the monuments they will be touring. Students had a great time connecting the pictures and stories they learned about in text books to the historical sites they toured on the trip.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools

BMMS Cheer Squad Attends Camp

Bayshore Student Places 3rd on State Computer Literacy Exam

Bay Minette Middle School Cheerleaders had a fantastic time at the UCA Cheer Clinic at the University of Southern Mississippi. The team finished in fourth place in rally routine and earned superior ribbons for cheer evaluation and rally routines. Squad members Alyssa Brothers and Avery Walker received Pin It Forward awards selected by UCA staff and cheerleaders from other teams. Pin It Forward is a program at UCA camp that recognizes standout cheerleaders who portray the following characteristics: Leadership, Spirit, Commitment, Kindness, and Motivation. The team is coached by Tonya Jones.

Congratulations to Bayshore Christian School Senior, Zachary Stewart! He represented BCS at the 35th annual ACTE (Alabama Council on Technology in Education) Computer Science Fair at Coastal Alabama's Bay Minette campus. He placed 3rd on the computer literacy exam which included a test as well as an interview. Way to go, Zachary!

St. Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Football Camp

Coach Scott Phelps of St. Michael's, along with Trevor Helper, Donovan Garrett, Grant Murray & Will Edmiston, are attending the Southeastern Louisiana football camp!

N f

i c the In

s Ben on â&#x20AC;&#x153;A for f an fo a m to p

pr bu th fi to

g tec s ser 1

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

Fairhope Student Attends National Youth Leadership Forum

This summer, Benjamin Whatley from Fairhope joined outstanding elementary school students from across the state to take part in a unique academic development experience, the National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF): Pathways to STEM, in Atlanta, GA. NYLF Pathways to STEM is one of the Envision family of programs (www.envisionexperience. com) that enable students to explore their interests and experience learning beyond the classroom. Benjamin was nominated to attend the forum by his fourth grade teacher at Fairhope Intermediate School. In addition to participating in student government, his school’s Garden Club and Bicentennial Club, Benjamin is also passionate about music and plays piano and sings. With dreams of being a neurosurgeon, Benjamin is looking forward to gaining the handson medical experience that the forum provides. “As an alumna of Envision myself, I am excited for Benjamin to meet, work, and collaborate with fellow high-aspiring students from other cities and schools,” said Amanda Freitag Thomas, SVP for Envision. “Hands down, my favorite part of attending an Envision program was being with motivated students in an environment designed to help us challenge our assumptions, meet new people, and grow. Creating that same learning environment is a central focus for all of our programs. At NYLF Pathways to STEM, students build the confidence and skills needed to excel in the classroom while gaining exposure to STEM fields and concepts. They learn how to adapt to and communicate in new situations, to new challenges, and with new people, which, given how rapidly the world is changing due to technology and innovation, are essential skills for success.” Since 1985, Envision programs have served more than 800,000 students in more than 145 countries, with programs designed to help students develop the leadership, scholarship and career skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive college and career landscape.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools

Spanish Fort HS Student Winner in National Scholarship

Nicholas Peckey from Spanish Fort High School is a winner in the Annual Washington Crossing Foundation National Scholarship Competition. Nicholas is the Vice President of the National Honor Society, President of Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society and member of the French Honor Society. He has represented his school for four years on the Scholars Bowl Team and is a member of the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Team. Nicholas founded his school’s Constitution Club and is an active member of the Future Business Leaders, FCA, Interactive Club, and Model UN. As a member of the film crew, Nicholas films games for the Varsity football and baseball teams. He serves his community as a volunteer fireman and also helped with coastal clean-up efforts. Nicholas completed his Eagle Scout Project by rebuilding the traveling exhibit for the Blue Star Foundation, which honors Veterans from Alabama. He will attend the University of South Alabama. The prestigious awards are granted to high school seniors for the best all-around presentations including an explanation of why they are planning careers in government service. The Foundation noted that these winners represent the most talented and accomplished of our country's young leaders and that it is these young men and women who are dedicating themselves to public service. The Foundation, whose headquarters is in Bristol, Bucks County, Pennsylvania, awarded $83,500 in 2019. The Washington Crossing Foundation has awarded more than $1,600,000.00 in scholarships since its inception. Scholarships were inaugurated in 1969 and honor the more than sixty years of dedicated service to the nation by the late author-historian Ann Hawkes Hutton. The Foundation believes that if our country is to continue to progress, we must have thoroughly trained, dedicated young men and women to carry on our government's work in future years. Its scholarship program seeks to find, identify, and encourage young people with the same sense of dedication and service demonstrated by George Washington and his soldiers who, under the most adverse of conditions, crossed the Delaware on Christmas Night in 1776 to win the Battle of Trenton that turned the tide of the American Revolution. www.gwcf.org.

FEEF S.T.E.A.M. Camp

It was Full S.T.E.A.M. ahead at FEEF ‘s S.T.E.A.M Camp on June 3 -6 at Fairhope Intermediate School. Campers learned about and implemented the Engineering Design Process. The instructor, Ms. Trina Jackson and her assistant Mr. Weston Brock kept the campers busy with back to back hands-on activities. Campers created various projects using salt clay dough, chalk and salt, pipe cleaners, and etc. They made s’mores using their homemade solar ovens and explored with various types of popcorn. Camp came to a close with students designing their very own outfit made from newspapers. Look Out, Young Engineers in the Makings!

t It’s all abou

• Riding - English, Western, and Jumping • Swimming • Heated Pool • Ropes Course • Climbing Tower • Outdoor Nature Skills • Sports • Soccer • Basketball

award-winning, n a n o t u o s is m Don’t mp for your ca d re te n ce ts ri Ch mmer! daughter this Su On Top of Lookout Mountain in Historic Mentone, Alabama

Best of Parenting WINNER 10

yea

rs i n

a ro w

Susan & Larry Hooks, Owners & Directors Donna Bares, Assistant Director

800-882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

• Beach Volleyball • Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance • Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program • Campfires every night • Optional trips & more!

www.easternshoreparents.com

gr s p Lu Em

Mc P

f e for ts.

d to

e ge

GSES K-Kids Club Awards Ceremony

The K-Kids Club of Gulf Shores Elementary School recently received awards for winning first place in two Kiwanis International contests. There were more than 1,400 K-Kids Clubs internationally eligible to participate in the contests. One first place award was a group award for best essay about identifying service needs in their community. The second award was an individual award for best speech for a speech written and video recording submitted by K-Kid Ana Bathrick. The GSES K-Kids Club completed 14 service projects and two fundraisers this school year to benefit their school and community. Pictured are: Ana Bathrick, Jeb Bathrick, Lucas Carroll, Abigail Chamblin, Claire Colvin, Annica Farris, Skylar Gant, Cookie Grover, Spencer Kizer, Tucker King, Emma Hall, Caitlynn Mote, Bryce Strickland, Masha Turkic, Taylor Bjorgum, Jorja Carrino, Hayden Cook, KaraGrace Harmon, Portia Hollis, Amanda Larenas, Satchel Kornegay, Amelia Kozyuk, Allie Lawson, Nora Malone, Marlie McCartney, Carson McKee, Vanessa Morales, Madison Nelson, Shayla Nguyen, Ella Godbold, Ray Pepperman, Parker Pennington, Lola Pizzetta, Brooklyn Purvis, Sibylla Ramos, Genesis Rasp, Sadie Sherrill, Davis Stephenson, Chloe Stewart, Kayla Tanner and Bella Traudt. Not pictured are Kylee Griffin and Ella Gilbert. Ana Bathrick (pictured right).

Christ the King Grandparents Serve Delicious Lunch

Our Christ the King Catholic School grandparents served up a delicious Jr. High Lunch for our students in May. What a treat to have our grandparents on campus volunteering their time and talent with us!

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Bayside Seniors Earn Awards and Scholarships

Bayside Academy’s 61 graduating seniors were accepted to 58 colleges in 21 states, and 88% of them were awarded merit- or talent-based scholarship funds totaling $5.6 million. Congratulations to Valedictorian Ty Kannegieter who will be attending Harvard College and Salutatorian Riley McGlasson who will be attending Southern Methodist University. We are very proud of all of our graduates. Pictured: Bayside Academy Valedictorian Ty Kannegieter, pictured with Bayside’s Head of Upper School Josh Montgomery, will attend Harvard in the fall.

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

Autauga County Schools St. Michael’s Soccer Camp

St. Michael's had a great group of girls & boys the week of June 3-6 for soccer camp! Love to see these future Cardinals in training!

Kindergarten Registration at J. Larry Newton School

Kindergarten registration was a huge success this year at J. Larry Newton School. Pictured here are upcoming Newton students Charli and Sammi Mouchett, along with JL Newton’s PTO representatives, Carrie McLemore and Tricia Gunnells.

www.easternshoreparents.com

i O nd

Baldwin County HS End-of Year Band Banquet

Baldwin County High School Marching Band closed out its year with a banquet. This gathering also served as a time to honor student accomplishments and to announce leadership roles for 2019-2020. New section leaders (top left) and band officers were also announced. Sarah Haskew was named Drum Major and section leaders will include Joseph Harville and Kevin Jones, percussion; Amelia Turner, front ensemble; Noah Beaver and Dillon Bryars, brass; Miracle Courville and Addison Rhodes, woodwinds. Noah Beaver will serve as Band President and Sarah Haskew as vice president. The captains for the Tigerettes dance team (bottom left) includes Ansley Smith and Nissi Jones. Zoe Duncan and Darbi Broadus will be Tiger Guard captains (middle left photo). Several awards (top right) were presented throughout the evening including: Micah Barnes – Most Outstanding Brass; Gabby Davis – Best Attitude; Addison Rhodes – Most Improved; Sarah Haskew – Most Outstanding Woodwind; Joseph Harville – Most Outstanding Percussion; Tigerette Rookie of the Year - Kaitlin Ganey; Ansley Smith - Most Outstanding Tigerette; Jamya Gaines - Tiger Guard Rookie of the Year; and Takhia Gray - Most Outstanding Tiger Guard. Ethan Pettis received the John Phillip Sousa Award and Emma Stuart was award the Wesley Rabren Horizon Award (bottom right). Amanda Eversman was presented the Joe Reimer Scholarship (bottom far right). This $1,000 scholarship is sponsored by the BCHS Band Boosters. Amanda will be attending the University of Auburn where she will be a member the Tiger Paws dance team.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools

FMS Outstanding Students for Second Semester

Congratulations Students! 7th Grade Outstanding Girls: Townes Bowman, Sadie Fidler, Alena Amare, Ansley Mangus, Sarah Claire Stejskal, Parker Beasley, Claudia Catar, Ashlyn Kunz. 7th Grade Outstanding Boys: Thomas Burns, Wyatt Aiken, Will Bumpers, Tadd Mitchell, Will Robbins, Mark Strobel, Jay Burchfield, Sanders Daniell. 8th Grade Outstanding Girls: Andi Williams, Lillian Boyer, Ruth Chirinos, Anna Grace Morgan, Taylor Parkin, Jessica Berling, Hope Lindsey. 8th Grade Outstanding Boys: Maddox Davis, Trent Henderson, Parker Vittitow, Ryan McNeil, Dylan Freeman.

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

Tanger Outlets Foley Awards Annual Tangerkids Grants in Several Baldwin County Schools

Tanger Outlets Foley is excited to announce that 11 schools in Baldwin County have been named this year’s recipients of a TangerKIDS Grant. In keeping with Tanger Outlets’ mission of being a good corporation citizen, the TangerKIDS Grant Program supports and serves the future generation by providing funding for schools located near Tanger’s centers. The following schools and programs in Baldwin County have been awarded TangerKIDS Grants: Daphne East Elementary School – Flexible Seating - $438.36; Daphne East Elementary School – Small Group Reading Materials - $328.10; Elsanor Elementary School – Guiding Little Readers - $994.29; Elsanor Elementary School – Games and Seating for Gifted Minds - $333.68; Foley Elementary School – Inspiring Tomorrows Readers - $449.70; Foley Elementary School – Let’s Get Swinging $169.96; Foley Middle School – Sensory Area - $900.00; Loxley Elementary School – Technology for Speech - $796.00; Loxley Elementary School – Read Aloud Area Needed - $300.00; Magnolia School – BEE Awesome - $880.00; Magnolia School – Liven Up Learning Stations - $380.00. Grants awarded this month will benefit schools for the 2019-2020 school year.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools

Baldwin County’s 2019 Seniors Show Amazing Results with Record-Setting Amount of Scholarships Offered

Baldwin County’s final analysis of the 2019 graduating class shows amazing results! Baldwin County Public School System students racked up nearly $100 million in scholarships for 2019, an increase of $10 million from 2018. There were 2,465 scholarships offered to Baldwin County’s 2019 seniors, for a grand total of $93,598,225. These scholarships were awarded in the areas of academics, athletics and fine arts. There were a total of 2,206 academic scholarships awarded to 2019 seniors, equaling more than $76 million. Fairhope High School’s graduating class led the way with academic scholarships, earning $22 million in scholarships. Baldwin County seniors were also awarded many athletic scholarships, with Daphne High School seniors awarded the most at more $11 million. Finally, almost $2 million in fine arts scholarships were offered, with Baldwin County High School the front-runner in this area. “Realizing our seniors were offered almost $100 million in scholarships is an impressive recognition of the hard work they, and more than 4,000 employees in our system, have put into education,” said Baldwin County Superintendent Eddie Tyler. “Over the last three years, we have put an emphasis on academic achievement and we see that commitment paying off with more than $76 million in academic scholars offered to our 2019 seniors. WOW, we should all be Baldwin Proud! Congratulations to everyone involved in this process. We look forward to seeing what the upcoming class of 2020 will do as Baldwin County students continue to become increasingly academically successful!” Baldwin County Public Schools are also very proud of the number of students going into military service. The number of 2019 seniors who will join the ranks of the military increased over past years. Not only will these students receive the chance to go to college via the GI Bill, they will also protect our freedom by serving our country. Of the 108 students from Baldwin County Schools signing with military branches, 26 of those come from Robertsdale High School. “There is no higher honor than being in service to our country,” said Tyler. “I am always impressed with the dignity and commitment of our ROTC programs in Baldwin County, but to see more than one hundred students sign up and make that pledge to our country is very humbling. May our country be continually blessed as well as these fine new members of our armed services.”

Water Slides Wave Pool Dune Racer Flowrider Lazy River New Arcade Games Screamin’ Demon Mini-Golf go-carts CYBERVILLE USA Launch pad Two Escape Rooms Private Cabanas & MUCH MORE!

Exciting NEW ATTRACTIONS FOR 2019 CYBERVILLE USA A PREMIER VIRTUAL REALITY GAMING EXPERIENCE

CONNECT WITH US!

LAUNCH PAD A TWO-PERSON BUNGEE TRAMPOLINE MADE FOR MAXIMUM FUN

906 GULF SHORES PARKWAY • GULF SHORES, AL • 1/8 MILE FROM THE BEACH 251.948.2106 • WATERVILLEUSA.COM • ESCAPEHOUSEWATERVILLE.COM Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

Book one of OUR ESCAPE ROOMS today! www.easternshoreparents.com

Co te

H th

C “I

0 e

4 REASONS TO HAVE YOUR CHILD TESTED FOR LEAD AT AGES 1 AND 2:

1. Lead is often found in 3. Lead can cause commonly used items. permanent disabilities in young children. 2. Young children frequently put toys 4. Lead poisoning can and non-food items be prevented with in their mouths. early detection.

, he n st

ass

he ur

For more information, visit By testing for lead at an early age, lead exposure can be identified and lead poisoning alabamapublichealth.gov/aclppp prevented through simple at-home strategies. or call 1-833-667-1495. www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine This ad is 100% funded with federal dollars through a cooperative agreement with the 35 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Autauga County Schools

Daphne Middle School Holds Transition Camp for Rising 7th Graders

Foley Teachers Attend Workshop in Destin

Daphne Middle School hosted its first Transition to Middle School camp this summer for rising 7th graders who were interested in getting a sneak peek and a head start on their middle school experience. The fourday camp offered students an opportunity to change classes, become familiar with the layout of the middle school, meet some of their future teachers and administrators, as well as participate in hands-on activities rooted in various classes, including Math, Science, English, History, and Art. The camp also featured sessions with the school resource officer, the school counselor, and the other community resource representatives. The week culminated in a celebration in which the attending students were encouraged to continue building on the experiences to make sure their middle school years kick off on the right foot.

Even though students are out of school, teachers are busy at workshops getting ready for the next school year. These teachers from Foley Elementary are learning some great hands on science activities at the Empower Workshop in Destin, Florida sponsored by the NEED Foundation.

Newton Alumni Visit Students

These beautiful former J Larry Newton students, Sophia Gambino, Kalin Powell, and Savannah Street stopped by Newton to talk to the students about graduation and encourage them to set goals and strive for them.

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

d y s ge

EXPAND YOUR REACH 2019-2020 OPEN ENROLLMENT IN CLASSES WHERE SPACE IS AVAILABLE For details, please visit www.baysideacademy.org or call 251.338.6446.

303 Dryer Avenue | Daphne, AL 36526 | 251.338.6300 | www.baysideacademy.org Bayside Academy is an independent, coeducational, college preparatory day school offering a superior educational opportunity to students in grades PK-12. 37

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Online “Camps” Fill Kids’ Summer with Learning Adventures

and shorter courses. Some of the camps have online counselors who interact with your kid. Sign up to get notified of the latest offerings. Make: Online. Free, but materials cost extra; age 12 and up. The folks behind the maker movement offer weekly camps based on themes such as Far Out Future and Flight. You get a PDF with daily activities that support the theme, such as making slime and designing and flying kites.

If managing your kids’ summer schedules is running you ragged, you may want to consider the online option. Apps, websites, and even full-fledged virtual camps offer a wide range of summer learning opportunities, and can provide the ideal activity during a “staycation” or a fill-in between other activities. Online learning also gives kids something unique: individual attention. You, a babysitter, a grandparent, or even an older sibling act as virtual camp counselors, leading -- and even learning alongside -- your kids. With many of the virtual camps below, you can mix and match activities to tailor the experience to your kids’ interests. Expect to be more involved if you go for the free, choose-your-own-adventure camps. But fee-based camps call for some adult participation, too. Check out these offerings:

Made with Code from Google. Free; age 12 and up. A wide range of projects, including making emojis, animating GIFs, and composing music, is designed to ignite a passion for coding in teen girls. (There’s no stopping boys from doing these projects, though.) The site offers inspiration stories from female tech mentors as well as ideas to make coding social, such as a coding party kit. CreativeLive, variable costs; age 14 and up. CreativeLive is a collection of educational video courses, ranging from photography to personal growth. The lessons aren’t necessarily aimed at teens, but most of the content is fine for kids who are interested in adding new skills, such as Photoshop, to their resume.

Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Summer Camps Kanopy. Free; age 3 and up. As long as you have a library card, you can access all the free entertainment and educational videos this app has to offer. Most of the content choices on Kanopy are similar to what patrons of a wellstocked library would expect: well-selected, award-winning films; independent and foreign films; popular kids’ and adults’ TV series; educational shows. The animated books are top-quality, with classics from producers such as Scholastic and Weston Woods.

Structured Learning JAM: Online Courses for Kids. Free for first 14 days; price varies per course, with discounts for purchasing an “All-Access Pass” or “Family Pass”, age 6–16. What can’t kids learn at this online school? There’s drawing, cooking, animation, music, science, engineering, and much more. Each course has a professional mentor and is broken down into easily manageable projects that kids can complete at their own pace.

MarcoPolo World School. Free to try, then monthly fee; age 4 and up This early learning video and game app emphasizes STEAM skills (science, technology, engineering, art, and math). Kids choose from a list of favorite subjects and watch a related topic-based video, which is then followed by a game. Parents and kids can view the monthly calendar to see what new topics are being added to the app, and parents can view kids’ progress.

Camp Wonderopolis. Free for campers; optional instruction guide for parents; age 7 and up. Sponsored by the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), this online camp lets kids explore topics such as weather, food, and technology. Each topic includes lessons, outdoor activities, videos, and additional reading suggestions for all ages.

Start with a Book. Free; age 6 and up. In addition to a summer science camp, this site offers a long list of themes, such as Art, Night Sky, and Weather Report, for kids to explore. For each theme, you get book suggestions (for all reading levels), discussion guides, hands-on activities, and related sites and apps. You’ll need to shell out for books if you can’t find them at the library.

Connected Camps. Price varies; age 8-13. For tech-curious kids, check out Connected Camps, which offers week-long, instructor-led, Minecraft-based camps including coding, game design, and engineering. There are also courses in Minecraft and the Scratch programming language just for girls. TechRocket. Free for a course sampling; price varies; age 10 and up. Launched by iDTechCamp (the popular -- and pricey -- computer day and overnight camps), TechRocket offers online instruction in coding, game design, and graphic design. Each camp offers a variety of levels and challenges as well as a dedicated instructor.

DIY. Free and fee-based; age 7 and up. This site offers dozens of skill-based activities (which it calls “challenges”) in a variety of categories, including Art, Business, and Engineering, that kids can do year-round. Every summer, DIY runs camps Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

d y g

up.

. s, ale al,

up. er df

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

week. We will hear about our Savior while we learn, worship and create! (251) 928-2524 tpccarrys@gmail.com www.tpcfairhope.org

Spanish Fort Church of Christ 8100 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort Theme: Shipwrecked Dates: July 14 - 17, 2019 Times: 6:00pm - 8:00pm Ages: 2 years - 5th grade Please call the church office for registration information. (251) 626-3064 spanishfortchurchofchrist@gmail.com www.facebook.com/spanishfortchurchofchrist

JULY

Vacation

Barnwell Baptist Church 7780 US Highway 98 Fairhope Theme: ROAR: Life is Wild, God is Good! Dates: July 15 - 19, 2019 Times: 8:30am - 11:30am Ages: K - 5th grade Come join us for VBS! A commencement service will be Friday evening July 19th at 6pm. For registration please contact Robyn Cohron.

Bible Schools

(251) 928-8286 rcohronpmc@aol.com www.barnwellbaptist.org

Faith Family Fellowship ad on page 41

7100 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort Theme: ROAR! Life is Wild. God is Good! Dates: July 10, 17, 24, 31; Wednesday nights 6-8pm Ages: K4-6th grade Limited availability for K4 & K5 (Must have completed K4 and must be 5 before August 31,2019) Join us for ROAR! Where kids will explore God’s goodness and celebrate a ferocious faith that empowers them through this wild life! Registration available online. 251-626-1379 www.faithfamilyonline.com

Celebration Church Jubilee Baptist Church 9264 Pleasant Road Daphne Theme: In The Wild Dates: July 8 - 12, 2019 Times: 5:15pm - 8:15pm Ages: 3 years - 6th grade Registration will be available in the church office and online. (251) 621-7095

www.jubileebaptist.com

St. Andrews by the Sea 17263 Fort Morgan Rd Gulf Shores Theme: To Mars and Beyond! Dates: July 8 - 11, 2019 Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm Ages: 4 years - 5th grade Please call the church office or contact Sara for more information at (678) 361-2762. Registration available on our website. (251) 968-3900 sarastap82@yahoo.com www.standrewbythesea.org

Trinity Presbyterian Church 545 South Mobile Street Fairhope Theme: Hometown Nazareth - Where Jesus Was A Kid! Dates: July 8 - 12, 2019 Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm Ages: K4 - 5th grade Come join us for this fun and engaging Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

8180 Dyer Road Fairhope Theme: Summer Surge Dates: July 15 - 17, 2019 Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm Ages: 5 years - 12 years Summer Surge is an awesome fun FREE EVENT for kids! Enjoy huge water slides, crafts, giveaways, games, and worshipping God together. (251) 928-0343 info@fairhopechurch.com www.fairhopechurch.com

Grace Fellowship, PCA 1740 South Juniper Street Foley Theme: Son Treasure Island Dates: July 15 - 18, 2019 Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm Ages: Rising K4 – 5th grade Come learn that God’s Love is deeper than the ocean and the greatest treasure of all! Exciting music, awesome stories, tasty snacks and crafts you will want to keep forever! Contact Sarah Thornbury via email or text for questions. Registration is available online and the first day of VBS. (251) 975-8378 Sarah.thornbury@gmail.com www.gracefellowship-pca.com

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 28788 North Main Street Daphne Theme: Power Up www.easternshoreparents.com

Da Tim Ag Re an tee

(25 ww

40 Th Da Tim Ag Jo ab Ca sta ga We

(25 ww

30 Th Da Tim Ag Din

t at yn

Dates: July 15 - 18, 2019 Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm Ages: 4 years - 5th grade Registration opened May 1, 2019. Middle and high schoolers are welcome to volunteer! Register online or email for questions. (251) 626-2421 ea.fst@hotmail.com www.stpaulseasternshore.com

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church 400 North Alston Street Foley Theme: F.R.O.G. (Fully Rely On God) Dates: July 15 - 19, 2019 Times: 8:30am - 12:00pm Ages: PK4 - 6th grade Join us for a fun filled week of learning about God and His abounding love for us. Camp Dixie Lutheran Outdoor Ministries staff will lead us in song, Bible study, games and crafts. Snacks will be provided. We hope to see you there! (251) 943-6931 stpauls.lcms.foley@gmail.com www.stpaulslcms.com

Gulf Shores First Presbyterian 301 East 21st Avenue Gulf Shores Theme: Who is My Neighbor? Dates: July 21 - 25, 2019 Times: 5:30 - 7:30pm Ages: 4 - 10 years Dinner will be served each evening at

5:30pm prior to beginning activities. (251) 968-7720 gsfpcusa@gulftel.com www.firstpresbyterianchurchgulfshores.org

New Life Assembly of God Church 10424 Highway 31 Spanish Fort Theme: KIDS KRUSADE Dates: July 21 - 23, 2019 Times: 6:30pm 8:00pm Ages: 4 years - 12 years Learn about God using puppets, blacklights, songs, games, and object lessons. Food will be provided each night along with inflatables after the service. No pre-registration required. (251) 656-3535

www.newlifeagspanishfort.com

Jubilee Shores UMC 17261 State Highway 181 Fairhope Theme: Summer Nights at Jubilee Shores Dates: July 29 - August 2, 2019 Times: TBA Ages: 6 years - 12 years Feel the love of Christ! With fun outside games and free dinner for the family each evening! (251) 928-9133 donaldfurlong@gmail.com www.jubileeshores.net

Rosinton United Methodist Church 26011 Baldwin Beach Express Robertsdale, 36567 Theme: The Incredible Race

Dates: July 29 - August 1, 2019 Times: 6:00pm - 8:00pm Ages: K - 6th grade Please contact the church office for registration information. (251) 964-5988

rosintonumc@gmail.com

St. Bartholomew Catholic Church 12795 Illinois Street Elberta Theme: Splash Canyon Dates: July 29 - August 2, 2019 Times: 5:00pm - 7:30pm Ages: PK - 6th grade Our VBS is open to the community, regardless of faith. Come join us, learn about Jesus, and have fun! Dinner will be served from 5pm - 5:30pm for participants. (251) 986-8142

www.stbartselberta.com

St. Paul’s Episcopal Chapel 14755 Oak Street, Magnolia Springs Theme: Big Heart Farms - Where God’s Fruit Grows! (Galatians 5:16-26) Dates: August 5 - 8, 2019 Times: 9:30am - 12:00pm Ages: K - 5th grade A fun, farm themed VBS with an emphasis on learning the fruits of the Spirit. (251) 965-7452 admin@stpaulsms.org www.stpaulsms.org

E , ng

an l!

oror le

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Combine Finances in Marriage? Q. Should my husband and I combine our finances? A.

If you want a quality marriage, the answer is yes. If you want a high probably of building wealth, the answer is yes. I read an article the other day about how you shouldn’t rely on joint bank accounts in marriage, because half of all marriages end in divorce, and the woman needs to be independent of her husband financially, so she won’t get messed over if the marriage doesn’t last. That’s an absolute load of crap, and here’s why. How and where you spend your money is always a direct result of your value systems. Jesus said it this way, “For where your treasure is, your heart will be, also.” When you plan your finances together, and you’re sharing your hopes and dreams, you’re sharing your goals for the

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

future. You’re reaching for those together. You each have a voice, you each have a vote, and no one loses their personal identity in this. So yes, married couples should combine their finances. They should combine their checking accounts and their decision making on finances. You’ll make better, smarter decisions that way, and it instills communication in a marriage. You know, when I first started teaching this stuff I didn’t realize that. I told couples to combine their finances, not from a relational standpoint, but because it’s impractical to run two sets of books in a household. But it’s very hard to hit the same goals and make good things happen together when you’re living separate financial lives. Since then, I’ve become convinced this approach builds stronger finances and stronger marriages.

Diversify advisors Q.

We’re wondering if we should diversify our investments by hiring multiple advisors with different companies, so we won’t have all our eggs in one basket.

A. I would get one advisor, and I wouldn’t invest all my mutual funds in one fund. Virtually all mutual fund advisors can sell pretty much any mutual fund, and you can buy an array of different mutual funds from different companies through one advisor. That gives you diversification. So, there’s really no advantage in having multiple advisors, unless you don’t trust someone’s advice. And if you don’t trust someone’s advice, why are you working with them in the first place? I personally have one financial advisor, and I trust that person. Still, I ask lots of questions and make sure I understand everything that’s going on with my money and the investment before making a decision.

www.easternshoreparents.com

er-

erge

u ou

unth

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

ac wit fam pa

req gri rel dre no ch ga fer tha

bo sh ca 1. 2. 3.

(H tun

co sh dre dis rem do â&#x20AC;&#x153;W are wit ou fat in

I divorced twelve years ago. Being a child of divorce myself, I knew the depths of pain that divorce can bring. I never expected to divorce myself, much less see my children go through it. Nonetheless my journey has been one of growth. While everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience is different, there is something universal about how we grieve and heal from divorce. While everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience of parenting is different, there is something universal about how we parent. Co-parenting is the process by which unmarried parents resolve to parent as a team in relative agreement with each other regarding the business of raising children.

dis ag de ca To div ma wit the ag en

Lau Sh

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

No one is born with these skills. We have to learn them. As a clinical sociologist, I facilitate co-parenting education groups with David Saavedra, a clinical social worker and marriage and family therapist. We share the following steps with group participants.

Begin a new relationship with your Ex - Co-parenting requires setting the old relationship aside and dealing with the grief of that old relationship outside of co-parenting. The new relationship of co-parenting is about the business of raising children. It is not about resolving old issues in the marriage that can no longer be resolved. It is about the nuts and bolts of raising children. It is about doctor appointments, transportation to ball games, homework and who will attend the parent teacher conference. Some ex-spouses can eventually be friends. The key to that friendship is the death of the old relationship.

Establish boundaries - For me, it has been easier to keep boundaries clear. In the beginning of the co-parenting relationship, I used several guidelines to avoid conflicts when communicating with my co-parent face to face, by text or by email. 1. I only talk about our daughters. 2. I keep my language and tone respectful. 3. I keep communication short. (Hint: When an issue is heated, I email or text to keep the opportunity for disrespecting one another to a minimum.)

Resolve conflict – Conflicts are part of life. Therefore, conflict is part of co-parenting. If I keep my communication short, respectful and focused on the business of raising children, conflicts are fewer and farther between. When there are disagreements, I say something like this to my daughters, I remind them (and me), moms and dads are different and we don’t always do things the same way. I say something like this. “When you are with dad you need to do what he says. When you are with me, you need to follow my rules.” I am careful to share with them,“One thing dad and I have in common is that we love our girls.” It is absolutely imperative that I never speak ill of their father. Half of their DNA comes from their father. To criticize him in their presence is to criticize my daughters.

Make a parenting agreement – Agreements prevent disagreements. Some co-parents find that written co-parenting agreements are helpful. Co-parenting agreements have more details than a visitation agreement inside a divorce decree. It can be developed by a lawyer, mediator or counselor/ therapist. To involve a professional, however, requires a fee. Faith based divorce recovery groups or non-profit services for co-parenting may be able to assist co-parents in writing parenting agreements without charging. If there is some level of cooperation between the co-parents, you may be able to write your own parenting agreement. Sample agreements can be found in many co-parenting books or co-parenting online resources. Co-parenting is a learned set of skills that benefit everyone, especially our children. ESP Laura Reagan-Porras is a child advocate, sociologist and freelance writer. She is a mother of two daughters.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

ha yo ah pa gu su

the po up an aw na ad

Planning a memorable birthday event can be the highlight of your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s year, if you maximize the fun and minimize the stress. The best way to increase the magic and decrease the madness is to use a handy checklist so you can start early and get ready gradually. Or if you want to plan your party in one fell swoop a few weeks ahead, this checklist will help you do that, too. I have been planning and hosting birthday parties for over a decade, and these steps will get you from vision to fruition. Follow these timing tips, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be able to keep a smile on your face from the day you start planning until the moment the final guest is picked up or dropped off.

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

loc loc ca se on pa us by ma am an ex

Ev ea se ma tio the tim

Low-stress, High-fun Party Themes Make-something Party Animal Interaction Party Bounce or Jump Party Pool Party Movie Party Tea Party Pony Party Bowling Party Garden Party Roller or Ice Skating Party Spa Party Slumber Party Indoor Fun Center Outdoor Playground Party

10. Choose A Theme.

Always have a theme. Having a focus will help you plan and execute your party without a hitch. Several months before your party date, brainstorm themes with your guest of honor. See sidebar for theme suggestions.

9. Make Reservations.

If there is one thing I have learned about popular party venues, it’s that they fill up early. Once you have your theme and know you will need a location away from home, get your reservations nailed down tight two-three months in advance.

8. Find Supplies Online.

Shop local when you can to support your local economy, but for those hard-to-locate items, don’t burn up time and gas searching for what you can easily find online. Generally speaking, one-stop party stores are not as prevalent as they used to be and you’ll likely be delighted by the variety you can find online. Just make sure to place your orders at least a month early to allow for shipping time and returns if anything is not what you’d expected.

7. Send Out Invitations.

Evite wins hands-down for quick and easy party invites. Just visit evite.com, select a theme, add in your guests’ email addresses, and send your invitations. Two weeks notice is usually just the right amount of time. But if it’s a busy time of year, add another week or two. 47

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

6. Order The Cake.

Cakes and cupcakes can get expensive when you make them from scratch. Order your cookie cake, ice cream cake, cupcakes or sheet cake one week ahead for pickup up on party day for the freshest results.

5. Tackle Your Local Shopping List. Despite ordering

ahead online, you probably still have few items you need to pick up locally. Be sure to pick them up at least a week ahead in case you can’t find something and need to order it online after all.

4. Recruit helpers.

Why try to do everything yourself when you can have so much more fun at your party with plenty of helping hands standing by? See the sidebar for suggestions.

3. Curry Favors.

Favors don’t have to be expensive or intricate. For a home party, go simple, fun, and inexpensive. Be as eco-friendly as possible by offering favors in a reusable container. If hosting a party elsewhere, consider letting the party be favor enough or simply offering a small treat to guests on the way out like a lollipop or a candy necklace.

2. Set Up A Day Ahead.

If you are ordering any large food deliveries like pizza, place your order a day ahead. Don’t forget to check online for any discounts or coupons. Then go ahead and tackle as much prep work as you can. Decorations? Food preparation? Party favors? Activity prep? Everything will go smoother on party day if you take care of as much as you can the day before.

1. Party Down!

Get a good night’s sleep. Allow at least two hours prior for set up and one hour afterwards for clean up. Then enjoy every memorable moment. Designate a party photographer, if your hands will be too full to document the day. ESP

Christina Katz has planned some fun birthday parties over the years including a pony party, a bowling party, and a roller skating party. But her all-time favorite was the sleepover spa party.

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

ek g

nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a

le n-

h sts dy

ds ag-

rme

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Great American Cookie Company at Eastern Shore Centre

30500 State Hwy 181 (Suite 812), Spanish Fort We offer the finest fresh-baked products for every celebration. We offer online ordering also available! (251) 621-7977 www.greatamericancookies.com

Hope’s Cheesecake

Marble Slab Creamery

25341 State Highway 181, Daphne Party Equipment Rental Service. (251) 625-4910 www.millersgrandevents.com

Orange Beach Concierge Service

Edible Arrangements ad on page 20

6890 US Highway 90 (Suite 10), Daphne Delicious fruit arrangements, baskets, bouquets and other tasty gifts including a variety of children’s arrangements. Celebrating life’s special moments. (251) 621-9413 www.EdibleArrangements.com

Andree’s

403 Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope Andree’s offers birthday and special event cakes of all sizes with a wide variety of cake flavors, fillings and icings. Visit us on Facebook to see photos. (251) 928-8863 www.andreesfairhope.com

Baking Me Happy LLC

Decorated sugar cookies for any occasion! www.bakingmehappy.com

Brodie’s Cream & Bean

16320 State Highway 104, Silverhill Serving local Old Dutch Ice Cream, coffee, gifts and other treats. Celebrate your birthday & help fund missions with Maji Hope! Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram. (251) 490-0331 BrodiesCreamAndBean@yahoo. com www.facebook.com/BrodiesCreamAndBean

Coastal Cakes & Confections

3800 Gulf Shores Parkway (Suite 236), Gulf Shores Family owned and operated bakery offering custom cakes, bulk candy and custom cookies. Visit us on Facebook or stop by for all of your cake and pastry needs! (251) 948-0987 coastalcakesnconfections@gmail.com www.facebook.com/Coastal-Cakes-and-Confections-171451493579191 Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

25405 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach The original beaded ice cream is available in your area! Stop in and sample some of our delicious flavors. Ask us birthday parties, fundraising and more! (251) 974-3687 www.facebook.com/dippindots orangebeach

Fairhope Chocolate

42 1/2 S Section Street, Fairhope Homemade caramel, southern pralines, turtles and chocolate barks. Certified nut free, gluten free, sugar free and vegan items also available. (251) 928-7750 fairhopechocolate@gmail.com www.fairhopechocolate.com

Fairhope Sweet Shop

218 Fairhope Ave. Suite B, Fairhope We specialize in unique products and services. From an anyday surprise to brighten someones day to Candy Buffets we can cover all of your gift giving needs! Candy, Macarons, Chocolate, Frios Gourmet Pops, flavored popcorn and Glass Bottled Sodas. (251) 929-4674 Hello@fairhopesweetshop.com www.fairhopesweetshop.com

Frios Gourmet Pops – Daphne

1501 US Highway 98 , Daphne Frios carts can be rented for your private party, festival or corporate event. Call today to schedule or come by for an awesome summer treat! Visit us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. (251) 605-7539 jroberson@friospops.com www.friospops.com

Gourmet Goodies

11101 County Road 64, Daphne Gourmet Goodies offers Cakes, Cupcakes, Cake Pops, Cookies, and much more! Located at Coastal Cafe. Visit us on Facebook to view photos of items we offer. (256) 565-5521 lurbelle@hotmail.com www.gourmetgoodies.org

301 Ho ma &T (25 wa

Miller’s Grand Events

Cakes, Treats and Supplies

120 Ne cat opt (25

210 East 20th Avenue, Gulf Shores Specialty Gourmet Cheesecakes, cookies & pastries of all kinds and flavors. We are dedicated to making & delivering the best! (251) 968-5858 hopescheesecake@gmail.com www.hopescheesecake.com 30500 Highway 181 (Eastern Shore Centre), Spanish Fort Ice cream cakes to match your theme. Call about party options. (251) 621-7900 www.marbleslab.com

Dippin Dots

4790 Wharf Pkwy, (Suite F206), Orange Beach Boutique Catering, Chef’s Table Dining, Event Design, Gourmet To Go, Private Chef, Private Events, Birthday Parties and Photo Booth. (251) 228-6729 info@orangebeachconciergeservices. com www.orangebeachconciergeservices.com

Party City

10200 Eastern Shore Boulevard, Spanish Fort Birthday Supplies, Kits & More. (251) 626-1617 www.PartyCity.com

Party Tyme Treats

Like us on Facebook and visit our Etsy shop at www.etsy.com/shop/PartyTymeTreats. partytymetreats@hotmail.com www.facebook. com/PartyTyme76Treats

Smoothie King

28841 Highway 98 (Suite E), Daphne (251) 626-5464 199 Baldwin Square (Suite 101), Fairhope (251) 929-3804 Call today to find out how you can have Smoothie King at your special event. www.smoothieking.com

Something Sweet Bake Shop

1712 Main Street, Daphne Custom cookies, cakes and cupcakes. Please call and speak with someone to place an order. (251) 621-2253 Bakesomethingsweet@yahoo.com www.facebook.com/somethingsweetbakeshopdaphne

The Little Cake Shop

10198 US Highway 31, Spanish Fort Come see us for customized birthday cakes and desserts! (251) 621-9097

Warehouse Bakery

759 Nichols Avenue, Fairhope Please call for bakery items and orders. (251) 928-7223 sales@warehousebakeryanddonuts.com www.warehousebakeryanddonuts.com

www.easternshoreparents.com

100 Yab fun me (25

Pe Ma live edu (57

Hi! coa com ent bal

ery

ets,

es.

Whit’s Frozen Custard

1204 Main Street , Daphne Need a special treat for a special occasion? Let us cater your next special event. We offer a variety of options! (251) 378-9204 www.whitscustard.com/al-daphne

Yabba’s Wacky Snack Shack

301 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores Hot dogs, pretzels, and nachos, Specialty handmade shakes and sundaes, Flavored popcorn, Toys & Tons of candy. (251) 948-3146 www.facebook.com/yabbaswackysnackshack

Yabba’s Wacky Snack Shack

100 West Laurel Avenue, Foley Yabba’s is a unique candy store experience that is fun for the whole family. We offer ice cream, a food menu, homemade fudge and popcorn. (251) 943-1977 www.facebook.com/yabbasfoley

Entertainment to You Animal Tales, LLC ad on page 47

Pensacola and surrounding areas Make your next event one to remember by inviting live educational animal ambassadors. We aim to educate, entertain, and inspire! (570) 428-4259 www.AnimalEdZoocation.com

Balloon Bubble Buddies ad on page 65

Hi! We are balloon twisters in the Alabama Gulf coast area. Do you have a party or celebration coming up? We provide a full scope of roving entertainment at your party which includes our balloon animals, bubble-maker, confetti gun, t-shirt

launcher (which can launch parachuting army men, stuffed animals and party gifts). We have arches, custom centerpieces and various decorations for your party/gathering. (251) 233-9647 www.balloonbubblebuddies.com

Bow-Tag

Mobile, Eastern Shore & surrounding areas, A safe and friendly a rchery game, indoors or out using foam-tipped arrows. We come to your event location. (251) 895-5714 cole@bow-tag.com www.bow-tag.com

Christie’s Paint n Shop

27267 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach Mobile art studio to your venue. (251) 981-7770 christiespaintnshop@gmail.com www.christiespaintnshop.com

Butterflies Dancing - Zumbini Parties

Serving Baldwin County and surrounding areas, Music, movement, line dancing and more! Party activities for ages 1 and up. (619) 787-9503 amie@butterfliesdancing.org www.facebook.com/Butterfliesdancing

Coastal Makers

Emerson Farms Mobile Petting Zoo

Summerdale We bring the fun to you! Petting zoos, pony rides, camel rides, pig racing, and animal education shows. Now offering rental items. (573) 380-8314 www.emersonfarms.net

Entertainment Management Services

506 Lakeshore Drive, Daphne We offer magic shows, balloon art, face painting, inflatables, rock walls, costumed characters, games, cotton candy & popcorn machines and decorating for children and teen parties. (251) 626-1274 bookthebst@aol.com www.entertainmentstars.com

Faces By Alyce

Face Painting for your party, festival or special event. (251) 303-6700 facesbyalyce@yahoo.com www.facebook.com/facesbyalyce

Jon the Balloon Guy

Mobile & Baldwin County Birthday party entertainment making your child the STAR of the show. Interactive magic show and balloons. (251) 447-7164 jonstaytonentertainment@gmail.com

Spanish Fort Let us help you find the perfect project for you and your guests. Our stress free format and easy to follow instruction make celebrations a great time for everyone! (251) 455-2909 coastalmakers@gmail.com www.coastalmakers.com

Kidding Around Yoga with Kristen

Dr. Gee’s Magic and Balloons

Kindermusik with Ms. Bonnie

Amazing Magic shows with Dog puppet, incredible Balloon art including princesses and superheroes! Available for Parties, Promotions and Events. (251) 662-7415 thedrgee@hotmail.com

Mobile & Eastern Shore Yoga Parties at your location! Party activities include yoga class, arts & crafts project, music, breathing techniques, music, dancing and more. Visit us on Facebook! (251) 605-2905 kristenkammer@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/KiddingAroundYogawithKristen Music and movement to entertain your party. Find us on Facebook at Kindermusik with Ms. Bonnie. (251) 753-3559 brhariel@gmail.com www.kindermusikwithmsbonnie.kindermusik.com

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Kona Ice

Have Kona Ice Truck come to your next Birthday Party. We call it the Kona Entertainment Vehicle, because well...that’s what it is - a party on wheels! (251) 583-0889 konalife@kona-ice.com www.kona-ice.com

Make Believe Parties

Mobile Your requested character will arrive at your party location 30 minutes after your party begins. Some activities may include: songs, story time, royal portraits and general birthday fun! (251) 508-3145 www.makebelieveparties mobileal.weebly.com

On Sight Entertainment

We bring the games to you! Video Game Parties Laser Tag - Entertainment Studio. (251) 207-8102 1onsightentertainment@gmail.com www.onsightentertainment.com

Once Upon a Time Parties

Coastal areas of Alabama, Florida & Mississippi, Book a fairy-tale character to attend Birthday parties, charity events and more. Gulf Coast areas of Southern Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida. www.onceuponatimepartiesal.com

Purpose Filled Painting

We bring an Art Instructor & all supplies needed to your celebration or event. Birthdays, Church

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

Groups, Family Night, Team Parties, Fundraising and more. Serving the Eastern Shore area. (205) 515-4188 purposefilledpainting@gmail.com www.facebook.com/purposefilledpainting

Drop Zone Inflatables

Reno’s Reptiles

Find us on Facebook & Instagram for pictures of our yard sign options. (251) 751-8585 espartypoppers@gmail.com www.facebook.com/EasternShorePartyPoppers

Pensacola Reptile shows for birthday parties, scouts, picnics, church groups, charity events, daycares, and even for some local schools. Choose from a variety of reptiles for your event. (850) 393-3004 rsnakeman@aol.com www.renosreptiles.com

Weavo the Clown

Balloon artist, clown and face painting for special events. (251) 463-4939 weavo55@yahoo.com

Visit our website for rental options. (251) 604-9132 www.dropzoneinflatables.com

Eastern Shore Party Poppers

Go Go Kayaks

921 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores Please call for rental options. (251) 752-5500 www.gogokayaks.com

Gulf Coast Events & Rentals

Inflatables and Rentals

26503 Highway 181, Daphne South Alabama’s premier, full-service wedding & event rental company. Offering tents, tables, chairs, and more. The experienced team is dedicated to making your event flawless. (251) 621-1233 events@gcrent.com www.gcrent.com

Eastern Shore Inflatables

Outdoor Fun Inflatables

ad on page 57

Daphne We offer a diverse inventory of entertainment from inflatable water & dry slides, bounce houses, mechanical rides, rock climbing walls, bungee trampolines, concessions and offer free delivery and setup. Like us on Facebook! (251) 509-2625 www.esjump.com

Elberta Baldwin County, Surrounding Areas and parts of Pensacola! Inflatable bouncers, obstacle courses, dry slides, water slides, and Run ‘N Slides, Mechanical Bull, Concessions, Tent, Tables, and Chairs! We deliver! (251) 923-7719 outdoorfuninflatables@gmail.com www.outdoorfuninflatables.com

www.easternshoreparents.com

rs,

SO. MUCH. SU M M ER.

5 MILES FROM THE BEACH ALWHARF.COM

F U N . EVE RY. DAY.

S PAR KS AFT E R DAR K

EVERY MON. 8:45PM

KI DS N IGHT

DAN C I N ' I N THE ST RE ET

EVERY FRI. & SAT.

painting under the palms

7PM-10PM

EVERY TUES. 5:30PM–8:30PM

Pepsi Treasure hunt

CI RCUS ON MAI N

SPECTRA SOUN D & LIGHT

IN DEPEN DENCE DAY CELEBRATION

EVERY WED. 5PM-8PM

EVERY SUN. 5:30PM-7:30PM

THREE SHOWS NIGHTLY 8:30PM, 9PM, & 9:30PM

EVERY THURS. 6PM-9PM

SAT. JULY 6

SPECTACULAR

FIREWORKS PRESENTED BY

60+ SHOPPING, DINING, AND ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATIONS

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Places to Party Bay City Gymnastics ad on page 3

8534 Well Road, Daphne Best party ever for your child! 1,000 sq ft. of in ground trampolines and foam pits, obstacle courses, games and free play. Call today! (251) 621-2112 bcgagym@att.net www.bcgagymnastics.com

Bradley Farm ad on page 52

29370 Loper Road, Loxley Join us for a wonderful animal adventure. Guests will visit with our camel, kangaroo, ponies, and much more! Party guests can also enjoy bounce time on the inflatable. Call today for field trips and private parties. (404) 578-2300 bradleyfarmllc@gmail.com

Creative Outlet Dance Center ad on page 12

66 South Section Street, Fairhope We provide the facility, entertainment and activities for the birthday boy or girl and 15 guests. Call and book your party today! (251) 928-9511 creativeoutletda@bellsouth.net www.creativeoutletdance.com

Dauphin Island Sea Lab ad on page 36

101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island Host your birthday party at the Estuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab! Please call or email for reservations. (251) 861-2141 (Ext. 7000) jlayne@disl.org www.disl.org

Eastern Shore Dance Academy

Magnolia Farms

9063 Merritt Lane, Daphne Whether you are as pretty as a Princess, looking for some funky Hip Hop or into all that Jazz, we have a party for you! We offer birthday parties for all ages. Our 2-hour parties include dance instruction, a performance for the parents and loads of fun. Bring your own cake, drinks and snacks. Reservations required. (251) 626-2300 easternshoredance@gmail.com www.easternshoredanceacademy.us

15275 County Road 49 South, Summerdale Parties include a party host, covered pavilion, farm activities and more. Some activities are available to bring to your party location or venue. (251) 605-7216 magnoliacornmaze@gmail.com www.magnoliacornmaze.com

ad on page 32, 55

Ferris Wheel, Mini Golf and The Wharf Express ad on page 53

23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach The Wharf is home to one of the largest Ferris Wheels in the Southeast standing over 112 feet tall. Please call for party and group rates. Picnic tables and umbrellas are available for parties. (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Gulf Coast Exploreum ad on Inside Front Cover

65 Government Street, Mobile Themed birthday parties, custom packages and special experiences! Easy booking and planning and member discounts. Visit our website for party options. (251) 208-6880 mdunklin@exploreum.com www.exploreum.com

Gulf Quest

ad on page 79

Original Oyster House ad on page 1

3733 Battleship Parkway, Spanish Fort (251) 626-2188 701 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores (251) 948-2445 The Original Oyster House provides a FREE small cake for birthday celebrations. You may also bring in your own cake. Be sure to check out our private rooms for special occasion. www.originaloysterhouse.com

Susan’s Academy of Dance ad on page 24

7966 American Way, Daphne We offer parties with the latest dance moves, princess dance parties, Rock Star and Hip Hop dance. Let us plan a dance party for you! Call for availability. (251) 626-3835 director@susansacademyofdance.com www.susansacademyofdance.com

USS Alabama Battleship ad on page 45

ad on page 31

155 South Water Street, Mobile Celebrate your child’s birthday on the Mobile River! If your child loves the water, boats, or marine life, we are the birthday party destination for you. (251) 436-8901 info@gulfquest.org www.gulfquest.org

2073 Battleship Parkway, Mobile Book your birthday party aboard the USS ALABAMA. Admirals Package: $250. Includes 2 hour rental of the wardroom, admission for 20 children and their parents. (251) 433-2703 rdavis@ussalabama.com www.ussalabama.com

W &

Hig Wa “fam par tea priv us (25 ww

650 Ca tod (25 ww

245 Ple (25 ww

Ala

126 Ou cor Ca (25 ww

All

199 Ov rela our alo and trip you (86 ww

231 Ca cat AM (25 ww mo

Are

477 Vis for tion age (25 ww

Art

6B Bir fam sup boo (25 ww Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

m to

all g e

Waterville USA - Water Park & Amusement Park ad on page 34

Highway 59 South, Gulf Shores Waterville USA is the gulf coast headquarters for “family fun”! Whether you’re planning a birthday party, family reunion, church outing, end of season team party, boy/girl scout event, or after-hours private party, the fun begins at Waterville USA! Let us customize the perfect party for your group! (251) 948-2106 wville2@gulftel.com www.watervilleusa.com

Action Outdoors – Dauphin Island

650 LeMoyne Drive, Dauphin Island Call for party options and reserve your celebration today! (251) 861-2201 reservations@actionoutdoors.org www.actionoutdoors.org

Adventure Island

24559 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach Please call for more Information. (251) 974-1500 info@adventure-island.com www.adventure-island.com

Alabama Gulf Coast Music Hall

12615-A Foley Beach Express, Foley Our Music Hall is available for birthdays, weddings, corporate meetings, and other special events. Catering available. (251) 978-2462 staffcollc@yahoo.com www.alabamagulfcoastmusichall.com

Alligator Alley

19950 Highway 71, Summerdale Over 450 alligators from hatchlings to adults, relaxing, sunbathing, courting and nesting. Watch our crew walk right out to feed the alligators! Walk along the elevated boardwalk and see alligators and other animals in their natural habitat. Field trips, group tours and birthday parties. Call to book yours today! (866) 994-2867 info@gatoralleyfarm.com www.gatoralleyfarm.com

AMC Theatres

23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach Call for special party pricing. We also have a dedicated party room to hold your special events at the AMC Classic Wharf 15! (251) 981-4444 rentals@amctheatres.com www.amctheatres.com/movie-theatres/pensacolamobile/amc-classic-wharf-15

Arena-The Next Level at The Wharf

4776 Main Street, Orange Beach Visit us for great entertainment for all ages! Perfect for birthday parties, civic outings, and family vacations. We offer Laser Tag and Bazookaball for all ages. (251) 224-5297(LAZR) arenanextlevel@aol.com www.arenaorangebeach.com

Art Wide Open Studio

6 B South Bancroft Street, Fairhope Birthdays, team building, friends night, date night, family time or learn to paint! We provide the space, supplies - everything you need! Visit us on Facebook! Call for available times and dates. (251) 233-0203 artwideopenstudio@gmail.com www.artwideopenstudio.com

Back Country Trail

3801 Orange Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach Bike or Hike to your next family picnic or birthday party! Enjoy bouldering, the butterfly garden and scenic trails through Gulf State Park. Visit the Campground Store to purchase trail gear and snacks. (251) 981-1063 trail@cityoforangebeach.com www.backcountrytrail.com

Belforest Pointe

26503 Highway 181, Daphne A gorgeous six-thousand square foot space complete with a bridal suite, covered patio, and beautiful three-acre outdoor space which is perfect for an outdoor event. (251) 621-1233 events@gcrent.com www.belforestpointe.com

Blue Girl Beading Co.

2200 East 2nd Street (Suite F) , Gulf Shores Please call for more information. (251) 968-5900 www.bluegirlbeadingco.com

Bodenhamer Recreation Center 310 West 19th Avenue, Gulf Shores (251) 968-1420 or (251) 968-4420 www.gulfshoresal.gov/recreation

Breakout Orange Beach

4776 Main Street (Space L-208), Orange Beach Work together to solve puzzles, crack codes, and find hidden items in order to escape in under an hour! Each game is a real-life escape room adventure for small groups of friends, family, or coworkers. Take team building to a whole new level! (251) 929-8330 info@breakoutgames.com www.breakoutgames.com/orange-beach

Build-A-Bear Workshop

30500 Highway 181, Spanish Fort Build-A-Bear Workshop makes your party special! Each guest makes & takes home a furry friend to love! Build your Party online! (251) 625-4183 www.buildabear.com

Build-A-Bear Workshop at the Wharf

4751 Main Street, Orange Beach Each guest will make his or her own stuffed animal friend. A party leader guides them through each step of the bear building fun and then through party games. Party time ranges from 1-1.5 hours, depending on the number of guests. (251) 224-1686 www.buildabear.com

City of Daphne Parks and Recreation 2605 US Highway 98, Daphne Please call for facility information. (251) 621-3703 www.daphneal.com

Coastal Arts Center

26389 Canal Road, Orange Beach Coastal Arts Center offers a 5,000 square foot main hall, a catering kitchen, and separate smaller areas if needed. Let us help create a memorable birthday party or special event! Visit us on Facebook and sign up for our newsletters. (251) 981-ARTS (2787) artcenter@cityoforangebeach.com www.CoastalArtsCenter.com

Coastal Cafe

11101 County Road 64, Daphne Playground, basketball courts, walking trail, base-

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

ball field, large open porch and splash pad. Private events by reservation only. (251) 621-9555 (Ext.535) info@coastalchurch.tv www.coastalchurch.tv/cafe

Cobb Theater Pinnacle 14

3780 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores Plan your next birthday with us! We provide entertainment, drinks, food and fun. We will even clean up! For more information visit our website. Call for availability and pricing. (251) 923-0100 www.cobbtheatres.com/ pinnacle14.aspx

Copper Kettle Tea Bar

106 North Chicago Street, Foley Kids parties, themed parties include teddy bear tea, tea with the Queen, Fairy tea, Pirate and Princess teas. (251) 609-2832 rpeters331@gmail.com www.thecopperkettleteabar.online

Dolphin Cruises - Cold Mil Fleet

5749 Bay La Launch Avenue, Orange Beach Please call for event information. (251) 943-3510 coldmilfleet@yahoo.com www.dolphincruises.com

Dolphins Down Under (Caribe Marina)

28101 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach We offer dolphin tours, birthday parties, lunch

cruises, snorkeling, kayaking and Jet Ski excursions. Reserve an entire vessel for Private parties, Sunset Trips and other Special Events. Visit our website for booking and excursion descriptions. (251) 968-4386 dolphinsdownunder.ob@gmail.com www.dolphinsdownunder.net

Fairhope Sewing School

Down Under Dive Shop

105 South Church Street, Fairhope Please call for information. (251) 929-1479 www.fairhopeal.gov

1129 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores Visit our website or call for rental information. (251) 968-Dive (3483) Info@dolphinsdownunder.net www.downunderdiveshop.com

Eastern Shore Art Center

401 Oak Street, Fairhope Please call for event information. (251) 928-2228 info@esartcenter.org www.esartcenter.org

Eastern Shore Lanes

10460 Eastern Shore Boulevard, Spanish Fort We have the best parties in town! Bowling, Arcade, Laser Tag, Ropes Course, Rock Climbing, Private Rooms and Food! (251) 625-3400 birthdays@eslanes.com www.eslanes.com

Fairhope Recreation Center

803 North Greeno Road, Fairhope Call for party options and reservations. (251) 928-7270 www.cofairhope.com

11161 John Deere Lane, Fairhope Please call for information. (251) 442-4472 fairhopesewingschool@gmail.com www.fairhopesewingschool.com

Fairhoper’s Community Park

Fairways Indoor Golf Club

25000 Bass Pro Drive (Suite 104) , Spanish Fort Great for corporate events, private events, birthday parties and fundraisers. Please call for additional information and pricing. (251) 621-5277 info@fairwaysindoorgolfclub.com www.fairwaysindoorgolfclub.com

Fat Daddy’s Arcade

24565 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach Visit Fat Daddy’s Arcade for awesome games and incredible prizes! Games, pizza, parties and more... fun for everyone! (251) 980-1050 OrangeBeach@FatDaddys Arcade.com www.fatdaddysarcade.com

Foley Art Center

211 North McKenzie Street, Foley Call for venue rental information and booking. (251) 943-4381 foleyartcenter@gmail.com www.foleyartcenter.com

Bay Camp! After-School! Now Registering!

Transportation provided from school. Snack, Homework Time / Tutoring, Field Trips and Play Time. Monday - Friday until 6pm 8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope Celebration Church of Fairhope

(251) 752-4897

BayCamp

www.easternshorebaycamp.com Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

Camp Director

Lisa Ledet

Lisa@EasternShoreBayCamp.com www.easternshoreparents.com

d e...

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Forty South Farms

27257 Glass Road, Robertsdale Birthday parties, Zoo to You, field trips, pizza, Llama kissing booth and more! (251) 978-0166 info@fortysouthfarms.com www.facebook.com/fortysouthfarms

Gulf Coast Dance Alliance

30752 Ember Lane, Spanish Fort Whether your birthday child likes ballet, jazz, hiphop or acro/gym, we have a party for you! (251) 621-9755 info@gcdadance.com www.gcdadance.com

Gulf Coast Ducks

150 South Royal Street, Mobile Enjoy your birthday on a 70 minute, hilariously entertaining duck boat tour! (251) 525-6933 info@gulfcoastducks.com www.gulfcoastducks.com

Historic Blakeley State Park

34745 State Highway 225, Spanish Fort The Wehle Center accommodates up to 100 guests with restrooms, serving kitchen, theater and small chapel pavilion. Covered pavilions available for rental. (251) 626-0798 office@blakeleypark.com www.blakeleypark.com

Hot Wheels Skate Center

616 Whispering Pines Road, Daphne Wheels provides excellent budget friendly, party

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

packages that include skating, drinks, invitations, paper goods and a FREE 30 day returning skate pass for the birthday child. It’s simple, all you have to bring the kids and the cake! Visit our website to view party package options, pricing and online reservations. (251) 626-5120 www.hotwheelsdaphne.com

Magnolia Dance Company

1705 South McKenzie Street, Foley Magnolia Dance Company is the perfect place for your favorite dancer to celebrate their birthday. We provide energetic dancing and games followed by food, cake and time for presents. (251) 622-6616 themagnoliadanceco@gmail.com www.magnoliadancecompany.com

142 Ca (25 ww

30500 State Highway 181 (Suite 120), Spanish Fort Virtual Reality gaming, escape rooms, field trips and more for birthdays, corporate events, youth groups, friends and family. Like and follow us on Facebook! (251) 303-2557 info@humdingersvr.com www.humdingersvr.com

Michael’s at Eastern Shore Centre

10200 Eastern Shore Boulevard, Spanish Fort Have your birthday party at Michael’s! Tons of themes to choose from. See a store associate or call for party packages and booking. Store hours are Monday - Saturday 9am - 9pm. Sunday 10am - 7pm. (251) 621-2686 www.michaels.com/classes/ birthday-parties

150 Dis birt me — you a9 Pa (25 ww

Hummingbird Zipline Course

Mobile Bay Bears Birthday Parties

Pir

Humdingers Virtual Reality Lounge

4700 Main Street (Unit G-114), Orange Beach The most unique zipline course in the U.S. is located at The Wharf in Orange Beach. (251) 948-9494 info@gulfadventurecenter.com www.gulfadventurecenter.com

Lake Forest Stables

268 Equine Circle, Daphne We offer parties, trail rides, boarding, and more. For Bookings and more information contact Daphne Vaughn. (770) 355-6514 daphne@lakeforeststables.org www.lakeforeststables.org

755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard, Mobile Throw your child the coolest party by celebrating at the Hank. Great standard birthday package and add-ons available. (251) 479-2327 baybears@mobilebaybears.com www.mobilebaybears.com

Next Level Tumbling

26090 Equity Drive, Daphne We offer birthday parties, tumble parties, cheer parties, dance parties and more. (251) 621-5797 info@nextleveltumbling.com www.nextleveltumbling.com

www.easternshoreparents.com

457 Pir cru cru tod (25 ww

Riv

260 Bir (25 ww

r We y

are pm.

ar-

Oak Hollow Farm

14210 Greeno Road, Fairhope Call and reserve your event today! (251) 928-4840 info@oakhollowfarm.net www.oakhollowfarm.net

OWA

1501 South OWA Boulevard, Foley Discover a whole new level of fun when you throw a birthday party at the Gulf Coast’s newest entertainment destination. OWA’s 20+ ride amusement park — The Park at OWA is the perfect place to celebrate your child’s special day. With attractions for all ages, a 9,500 sq. ft. splash pad and so much more, The Park at OWA is the place to be for birthday fun. (251) 923-2111 GroupSales@VisitOWA.com www.VisitOWA.com

Pirate Ship Cruises and Alabama Cruises

4575 South Wilson Boulevard, Orange Beach Pirate ship cruises, fishing charters, dolphin cruises, parasailing, jet ski, sea-doo rentals, dinner cruises and more. Call and book your birthday party today! (251) 981-4127 hudsonmarinaob@gmail.com www.hudsonmarina.net

Riverside Ranch

26061 Monsanto Road, Loxley Birthday Parties, Riding Lessons, Boarding. (251) 263-3700 riversideranch1@gmail.com www.facebook.com/riversideranch1/

Rogue All Star Cheerleading & Tumbling

25400 Friendship Road (Unit B), Daphne Allstar & school cheer, tumbling classes, clinics, camps, open gym and birthday parties. . (251) 517-0285 cheer@rogueallstars.com www.rogueallstars.com

Strike City Lanes Bowling 613 McMeans Avenue, Bay Minette Located inside the Bay Minette Recreation Center. (251) 580-2547 www.cityofbayminette.org/ Strike-City-Lanes

Rotolo’s

The Factory of Gulf Shores

100 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope Play in the arcade and enjoy a delicious dinner! Birthday party packages and catering available. (251) 990-4005 www.Facebook.com/Rotolos OfFairhope

18948 Oak Road West, Gulf Shores Jump time, hostess, invitations and paper products included in party package options. (251) 202-0900 events@thefactorygulfshores.com www.thefactorygulfshores.com

Seward Farms

The Fort Container Park

10836 Tanner Williams Road , Lucedale Please call for party information and reservations. (228) 641-3936 info@sewardfarms.com www.sewardfarms.com

Spanish Ft Premiere 14 Eastern Shore Cinema 30500 State Highway 181, Spanish Fort Fill out the online form to reserve your party today! (251) 626-1011 or (251) 626-0352 spanishfort@pccmovies.com www.pccmovies.com

Spanish Fort Town Center Park Pavilion

29000 Bass Pro Drive, Spanish Fort Shaded pavilion, tables, splash pad, playground. (214) 561-8814 info@spanishforttowncenter.com www.spanishforttowncenter.com/town_center_park

29001 Bass Pro Drive, Spanish Fort Contact The Fort today for options to celebrate your special day! heather@classiceventsco.com www.thefortpark.com

The Fort of Colonial Mobile

150 South Royal Street, Mobile Come to The Fort and have a party on The Lawn! (251) 802-3092 www.colonialmobile.com

The Gulf Bowl

2881 South Juniper Street, Foley Birthday party packages available on our website. Contact Amy or Lisa to book your party today! (251) 943-4575 gulfbowl@gulftel.com www.gulfbowl.com

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

The Track Family Fun Park

3200 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores The Track is your family fun destination with six gokart tracks, blaster boats, the Skycoaster, mini golf, Fat Daddy’s Arcade and more! (251) 270-0209 gulfshores@funatthetrack.com www.funatthetrack.com

The Wormhole

8097 State Hwy 59 Suite C, Foley We are a virtual reality gaming service where you can come play high quality VR games. Birthday Party Packages available. (251) 943-7695 wormholevr@yahoo.com www.thewormholevr.com

Tortuga Adventure Golf, LLC

30500 State Hwy. 181, Ste. 230, Spanish Fort Indoor blacklight adventure golf that takes the players on a journey through the pirate island of Tortuga in the Caribbean. Please call for party information. (251) 626-6221 info@tortugaadventuregolf.com www.tortugaadventuregolf.com

Tucker’s Tang Soo Do

21862 Highway 59, Robertsdale Have a birthday party filled with Fun activities, organized by our qualified staff. There’s no party like a karate party! (251) 948-5425 tuckerstangsoodo@yahoo.com www.alabamamartialartsacademy.com

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

Urban Air Adventure Park

3100 Bass Pro Drive , Spanish Fort A full-service family adventure park with awesome attractions for all ages. (256) 269-3213 parties@urbanairspanishfort.com www.urbanairtrampolinepark.com

Wales West

13670 Smiley Street, Silverhill Celebrate any size party at Wales West! You can include authentic Train ride, mini train, lake with waterslide and large shady deck, indoor Heated Pool, or Community party room. (888) 569-5337 allkids1248@gmail.com or enquiries@waleswest.com www.waleswest.com

sacola areas. Please call for birthday party options. (850) 418-3684 wildhawkranch@gmail.com www.wildhawkranch.com

WildNative Tours - Gulf Shores/Orange Beach 4159 County Road 6 , Gulf Shores Narrated Boat Tours! Please call for party options and booking. (251) 272-4088 info@wildnativetours.com www.wildnativetours.com

WildNative Tours - Mobile, AL

101 South Water Street, Mobile Narrated Boat Tours! (251) 272-4088 info@wildnativetours.com www.wildnativetours.com

We Rock the Spectrum

WildNative Tours - Spanish Fort

Weeks Bay Plantation

Wooden It Be Fun

1802 A US Highway 98, Daphne Sensory gym for kids of all abilities - open play, classes, camps, birthday parties, arts & crafts, & more. (251) 355-6178 info@werockthespectrum daphne.com www.werockthespectrumdaphne.com 12562 Mary Ann Beach Road, Fairhope A unique area for birthday parties with seasonal outdoor movies, catered picnics and more. (251) 421-2073 info@weeksbayplantation.com www.weeksbayplantation.com

Wild Hawk Ranch, LLC

24080 JD Waters Lane , Robertsdale Robertsdale, Loxley, Foley, Bay Minnette and Pen-

30841 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Narrated Boat Tours! Please call for party options and booking. (251) 272-4088 info@wildnativetours.com www.wildnativetours.com 314 Greeno Rd South (Suite C), Fairhope Have fun with friends, or book a private painting party. Follow us on Facebook! (251) 422-8052 www.facebook.com/woodenitbefunfairhope

ZooBee’z Indoor Petting Zoo

8360 State Highway 59, Foley Indoor Petting zoo offering birthday parties. (251) 223-9301 www.facebook.com/zbzzoo

ESP

www.easternshoreparents.com

ns.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

ENROLLMENT FOR THE 2019-2020

HAPPENING NOW!

Limited spots available. Call us to find out more!

» K-9th grade level full curriculum school » Dyslexia Therapy » Tutoring in every subject » Homeschool PE

» Our 9th grade novel studies and science classes for homeschoolers are currently full. Call to be added to the waiting list

We understand that everyone learns differently; therefore we use a variety of individualized, multi-sensory teaching methods to address the individual student’s needs.

10526 Co. Rd. 64 Daphne, AL 36526 63

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

to pa me mi is a tha

pla Ba ma bo do the wh on pa

bo co sm ba ex co ca it w tar or cle

rea int so ca ou ba stu aim pie sp

ma Sit tak fac ha sq

I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean to brag, but my husband and I have thrown quite a few awesome birthday parties over the years. However, when reflecting back over all the parties weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve thrown, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clear to me that the most memorable parties were not the most elaborate or even the most expensive. They were simply the messiest.

of co Ho co ba ins an

Messy and birthday parties go together better than you might imagine. After all, what could be more festive than a little bit of parent-approved pandemonium?

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

If you really want to throw the party to top all parties, go for a totally messy party from beginning to end. If a little bit of mess is memorable, than a lot of mess just might be unforgettable. In that spirit, here is a list of 17 indoor and outdoor ideas that won’t break the bank.

1. Take aim, color. Mark off a square play arena outdoors with five-foot tall Bamboo garden stakes and blue painters masking tape. Fill squirt guns or squirt bottles with non-toxic watercolor paints, don a pair of clear swim goggles, and let the kids decorate each other dressed in white t-shirts and leggings or sweats. The only rule is no one leaves the field until the paint is all spent.

2. Take a whack at it. Fill a storebought piñata 2/3 of the way full with cooked, well-drained spaghetti. Then add small plastic toys, foil-wrapped granola bars, and plastic wrapped candies. To extend the fun, hang the piñata on a pull cord threaded through an eyehook so you can pull it up and down as kids swing at it with a bat or broom handle. Secure a tarp underneath with Duck tape (indoors) or camping stakes (outdoors) for easy cleanup. 3. Eggcentric art. Break the tops off real eggs and pour the yolks and whites into Tupperware to make quiche or a soufflé later. Keeping empty shells in the carton, fill each with acrylic paints of various colors. Outside or in the garage or basement, hang a large canvas against a sturdy wall or fence and let the kids take aim and fire until they make a masterpiece. Use plastic drop cloths to catch the splatters as needed. 4. Franken-beauty. Make natural facial masks out of banana, avocado or cocoa. Sit guests around a large table in pairs to take turns applying masks to each other’s faces. Be sure to have some hand mirrors handy so everyone can see what all the squeals are about.

6. Reach for the foam. Play messy Twister in the yard by mixing foam shaving cream and food coloring. Wear clothing that can get stained. If no one wants to worry about clothing stains, simply use white shaving cream for the same effect.

5. Construction junction. Supply lots of sheets, blankets and pillows for fort construction. If you can mount a few Hula Hoops strategically around the room, they come in handy. You might also supply bandanas and bungee chords. Be sure to inspect the results for hazards. Keep food and drinks strictly separate.

7. Pudding slide. Make about a gallon of chocolate pudding. Drop large spoonfuls of pudding onto a Slip & Slide. Have guests take a running start down a low-grade slope. To make slide more slippery, have guests sprinkle it with water from a sprinkler can or set the hose sprayer to mist. Add more pudding or water, as needed. 65

8. Slime ball. Find an online recipe to make nontoxic slime and let guests prepare it. Then play a game of hide the bouncy ball in the slime. Use a blindfold and a timer to see who can find their party favors the fastest. Enjoy the groans. 9. Picasso footsie. Roll out a long sheet of paper and pour puddles of acrylic paint at one end. Have each guest step in one color per foot and walk across the paper. Switch to the other side of the paper to balance out the look. Hang art on a fence or wall to dry.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

10. Musical silly string. Put half the group in the middle on a plastic tarp. Encircle guests with the other half of the group. Turn on the music. Have the inside group move in one direction and the outside group move in the other direction, while spraying the inside group with silly string. When the music is turned off, switch groups.

11. Pasta fling. Cook one box of spaghetti per party guest. Get some five-gallon buckets and fill them 2/3 of the way with water. Add enough flour to thicken the water, then add spaghetti. The only rules are: use your own spaghetti, no bucket-dumping, and no touching-just throwing. Put them in the square play arena and get the heck out of the way.

12. Mud puddle fun. On a sturdy table at playing height, fill a small kiddie pool with dirt and just enough water to make mud. Add digging and pouring toys for an hour of industry for young guests. 13. Duck-Duck-Dump. Have kids sit in circle for a game of Duck-Duck-Goose.

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

But first, hand them a cup of water and a half-cup of flour to pour over each goose’s head.

14. The opposite of tiny bubbles. Make bubble mix with ten cups of regular Dawn Dish soap and five gallons of water. Let it sit overnight. Do not agitate the solution as you pour it into a small wading pool slightly larger than a Hula Hoop in diameter. Have guest don a pair of clear goggles and stand in the middle of the pool without splashing. Let two party guests lower a Hula Hoop over the guest and then pull it straight up into a giant bubble.

15. Three-legged color run. Set up a start and finish line for a short jaunt. Tie the legs of two guests together and have them wear clear swim goggles and white play clothing. Have other guests stand on the sidelines and throw color from bags of nontoxic Holi colors (the type used for Color Runs, available online). The winners take on the next pair of challengers until everyone has run. The most colorful pair wins.

16. Sloppy volley. Divide guests into two groups. Put a line across the center or your play arena like a tennis court. Everyone has to stay on their own team and wear swim googles. Place a table of supplies within reach of the backcourt. On the table, supply large bowls of chilled mashed potatoes, Jello, pudding, and cooked oatmeal. Tint food with food coloring if clothing can be stained. On your mark, get set, food fight!

17. Trashion runway. For a couple of months before the party, don’t discard your reusable recyclables. Spread them out evenly in tarps with plenty of clear tape, masking tape, painter’s tape, and Duck tape. Pair guests up into design teams. Give a time limit like one hour. The assignment is to design a runway-worthy fashion for each team out of only the trash that’s been supplied. Have a runway show afterwards to display the results. ESP Like most parents, Christina Katz’ first instinct is not necessarily to throw the messiest party. But she’s learned that sometimes it’s fun to throw tidiness out the window and for the sake of big birthday fun.

www.easternshoreparents.com

or-

e y sh ow

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Toys That Tie It All Together

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

While we keep string and rope away from toddlers for safety reasons, once kids approach the ‘dress themselves’ stage, they are usually ready to experiment with the manipulation of these versatile materials. Learning to tie knots and twist rope can be an important part of children’s development. For the little ones, experimenting with lacing, knots and weaving promotes discipline, focus and problem-solving (ability). String work also enhances hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. In addition to being a functional part of work, craft and construction, knots and manipulated string have been used for art and design works for thousands of years. The following items explore knotting and string work in ways that are forever fun and functional!

by Gerry Paige Smith

Loopdeloom

Knot So Fast

Weaving is kind of the undiscovered hero behind so much of our everyday experience. From clothing to seatbelts, from backpacks to baskets, weaving exponentially multiplies the strength of ordinary materials. The Loopdeloom weaving kit puts this power into the hands of craftspeople, young and old. With its innovative spinning peg loom, this weaving tool is simple to set up, easy to use, and produces quick results. As the weaving methods become familiar to users, string and yarn projects can evolve from small potholders to large complex items with intriguing patterns. This versatile tool can combine with additional looms to create larger projects and it can also be used to weave recycled materials (plastic bags, t-shirt strips). The winner of multiple design awards for toys and crafting, Loopdeloom is an easy intro to the world of weaving with expanding potential for creative textile exploration.

It’s easy to get roped into the fun with the Knot So Fast game that combines dexterity and visual problem solving into a string of knotty contests. With colored ropes, rings, card base and a nifty ‘tugof-war’ scorekeeping rope, this twoplayer game is great for camping, scout meetings, or a friendly challenge between friends. The game features a variety of knots, sorted by their functions such as stopper, binding, bends, hitches, loops, and decorative knots. While the cards provide knot images only (no step-by-step instructions), players are challenged to use visual cues and experimentation to duplicate the knot before their opponent does. The cards also show interesting facts about each knot. Ideal for kids and adults who have an inclination toward sight-solving, Knot So Fast is a fast and fun introduction to the twists and turns of knot tying.

Paracord Bracelet Making Kit

String Art Kit Space Edition

A study stand-out among bracelet kits, this strong paracord kit jig is ideal for making functional arm wear that is as hardy as it is fashionable. The wooden weaving base is designed to be adjustable to desired length, to anchor the work in progress, and to hold up as young crafters expand their abilities with variable cordage and new designs. In addition to the building base, this paracord bracelet kit includes 4 bundles of paracord in different colors and styles, enough clips to complete 4 bracelets and instructions to guide them along the craft journey. Once kids pick up the skill, they can easily find additional paracord types, clips and ornaments to customize their future work. From bracelets to beyond, this kit from 3 Bees & Me is a great starting point for young crafters pondering a string of new projects!

Blending graphic design with string manipulation and knotting, String Art Kits from Craft-tastic offer young artists everything they need to tie into the string art world. Choosing from the included patterned foam canvases, kids simply push anchor pins into the outlines and the canvas is ready to string (no hefty tools needed). With detailed instructions and 40 yards of thread, string artists quickly pick up the skills of stretching and winding the colored thread across the core of the image as the pictures gain depth and shape. The Space Edition kit features templates for a rocket ship, a planet and a star, as well as everything needed to get right to work. For young artisans discovering how easy it is to create layered looks with string, similar kits from Craft-tastic featuring everything from unicorns and animals to desserts and symbols are available to keep the artwork coming!

(ThinkFun)

(Craft-tastic)

(Craft-Tastic)

(3 Bees & Me)

Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

n -

Head and Shoulders ...Knees and Toes. Not just a nursery song anymore?

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here for all the bumps in your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life.

ket k.

Bayside Orthopaedic 251.928.2401 www.baysideortho.com

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

the Im rev ma no an he rim of su ety ha pla an an dis

fre lun & ch ph ge alo

Sadly, the art of free play has declined sharply in recent decades. “Over the past half-century we have increasingly deprived children of opportunities for free play, and over that same period we have seen dramatic and continuous increases in all sorts of emotional disorders in children,” explains Peter Gray, an expert in this subject. He is a research professor at Boston College, author of the book Free to Learn, and the voice behind the Psychology Today’s blog by the same title that addresses ways we can create learning environments that optimize rather than suppress children’s play.

Do your children play enough?

What’s The Problem?

I am talking about unstructured free play when they are creating, using their imagination, and exploring on their own without your guidance. No electronics, no games with lots of rules, not even educational games and toys with a purpose.

• Diminished joy. • Unable to learn self-control. • Miss out on discovering and exploring what they most love to do and their purpose in life. • Greater chance of experiencing anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders.

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

When children do not have the opportunity to engage in enough free play, they suffer. Some of the drawbacks resulting from missing free play include:

www.easternshoreparents.com

to the int the ne Pe pra int tio ch fea ma ing pla an

giv pla dis tur

• th mo so an pla in

Lena Aburdene Derhally, psychotherapist specializing in anxiety at the Imago Center in Washington, D.C., revealed that “Sadly, I continue to see many instances where play and joy are not highly valued with both younger and older children, and as a mental health professional, I see it as detrimental to the healthy development of children. Because we have become such a work- and results-driven society, free, unscheduled play for children has taken a back seat. This lack of play affects emotional development and is thought to be leading the rise of anxiety, depression and other mental disorders in children.”

Benefits Of Free Play

Why should we encourage more free play? According to Ashley Soderlund, psychologist and author of Nurture & Thrive blog, research shows that children whose parents often engage in physical and pretend play have a stronger bond with their parents and get along better with their peers. Free play also helps children learn to solve their own problems, control their own lives, develop their own interests, learn about the world around them, and practice many skills that are necessary for healthy development. Peter Gray points out that children practice physical and manual skills, intellectual skills, social skills, and emotional skills during free play. “In play, children learn how to regulate their fear and anger and thereby how to maintain emotional control in threatening real-life situations.” Over time, free play helps a child feel happier, calmer, and more confident.

Different

is go od.

When it comes to getting braces, we stand out from the rest!

What Parents Can Do

There are many ways that we can give our children the chance to freely play. The following tips will help you discover more opportunities for unstructured play: • Let go of your need to control their play time. This is probably the most difficult step for many of us. It is so important that we bite our tongues and move aside, and let our children play as they please (of course, stepping in if safety concerns arise).

The McMurphy Orthodontics DIFFERENCE

• High-Tech Damon & Pitts 21 Braces • Accelerated Treatment Options • Greater Comfort • Treatment Without Extractions • Customizable Payment Plans • Fewer Appointments W W W. MC MU R P H YO RT H O D O N T I C S .COM

J. ST E A DM A N MC MU R P H Y, J R ., D. M . D.

(251) 62 1 -8 8 87

9808 McSara Ct • Spanish Fort, AL 36527

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

• Keep it simple. Fun doesn’t have to involve expensive toys and trips to amusement parks. Let them enjoy simple activities like blowing bubbles, making up their own dances, and drawing on the sidewalk with chalk.

N G

• Focus on their strengths and interests. If your child loves an activity, then let them focus on it during their free time. • Encourage physical activity. Exercise is healthy and fun, but it does not always have to be so structured with teams and rules. Let your children create their own sports and get their energy out in the way that makes them happiest. Try jumping rope or impromptu relay races. • Get them outside. Children are spending less time outdoors and suffering from nature-deficit disorder. This is unfortunate because a growing number of studies show that spending time in nature can improve mental health, such as reducing stress. • Invite other children to play. Playdates may be scheduled, but we can allow the kids to use their imagination together. Many children love playing games like house with her friends when each child takes on a role in the family—no toys necessary. • Be playful with your kids. It is so important that we model fun free time to our kids. Get on the floor and monkey around with them, pretend you are princesses in a castle, or talk in silly accents. All of this imaginative play will encourage them to do it more often on their own. • Understand the importance of play for kids of all ages. Even tweens and teens need to play freely sometimes and get a break from their busy, stressful lives. ESP

Sandi Schwartz writes for numerous regional parenting magazines. She also manages the blog Happy Science Mom, a parenting toolkit for raising happy, balanced children.

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

www.easternshoreparents.com

No Mosquitoes. GUARANTEED.

m p-

rs er

u ly ll n

Buy One Treatment, Get One Treatment

FREE! 69

138 Value

ns es s-

log is-

251.504.1317 BugsBITE.com

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine Offer Expires 12/31/19

FamilyCalendar Monday July 1

Moonlight Chassé Ballroom Dance Society ($7

for members and $10 for non-members)

7:00 PM - 9:30 PM, Hot Wheels Skating Rink, 616 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, AL, 36526 Moonlight Chassé Ballroom Dance Society is open to the public for dancing every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month. Live music is featured for dancing Cha Cha Cha, Swing (West Coast and East Coast), Rumba, Waltz, Salsa, Argentine Tango, Bolero, American Tango, etc. Moonlight Chassé Ballroom Dance Society offers an enjoyable evening of dance, live music, fun, friendship, A partner is not required to participate in the dancing experience. Find us on Facebook. 251-377-4069

Tuesday July 2

StoryTime: Chickens Aren’t the Only Ones

(Free)

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us to read “Chickens Aren’t the Only Ones,” followed by arts and crafts. Story Time takes place the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month. Designed for children up to 6 years. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center WWI and WWII Photo Gallery Living History Event 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Fort Morgan, 110 Hwy 180 Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Photo galleries to include domestic life, recreation, military training, medical and cavalry at Fort Morgan during WWI will be stationed inside the fort. There will be living history participants, dressed in period clothing, stationed throughout to answer questions and provide additional information. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Create some summer fun and join our activity classes! Parents and caregivers are encouraged to stay and watch the creativity unfold! Classes usually last 30 minutes to an hour. Spots fill quickly and sign up fees must be paid at the time of registration. All of our activities only cost $5.00 per child and they generally last around 30 to 45 minutes. Times: 11:00am and 1:00pm. For a detailed schedule, please call or visit our website. 251-928-1720 www.fantasyislandtoys.com

Wednesday July 3

Snakes, Frogs and Turtles Observe and Explore Day (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Graham Creek Nature Preserve, 23030 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 Mini-hike to Gopher Tortoise Colony and free ecoeducational activities for children 10 and under. grahamcreekpreserve.org Grand Bay Watermelon Festival 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Grand Bay Odd Fellows Festival Park, 10327 Taylor F. Harper Grand Bay, AL, 36541 The Grand Bay Watermelon Festival is open on July 3rd from 3 to 7 pm and on July 4th from 8 am to 4 pm. An annual family fun event with all the free, sliced, ice cold watermelon you can eat but only on the 4th. grandbaywatermelonfestival.org/

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

Tedeschi Trucks Band 7:00 PM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Tedeschi Trucks Band Concert. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Thursday July 4

Grand Bay Watermelon Festival 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Grand Bay Odd Fellows Festival Park, 10327 Taylor F. Harper Grand Bay, AL, 36541 The Grand Bay Watermelon Festival is open on July 3rd from 3 to 7 pm and on July 4th from 8 am to 4 pm. An annual family fun event with all the free, sliced, ice cold watermelon you can eat but only on the 4th. grandbaywatermelonfestival.org/ GulfQuest 4th of July Celebration ($5 $10)

2:00 PM - 9:00 PM, GulfQuest National Maritime Museum, 155 South Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 For only $5.00 per child, attendees will enjoy unlimited access to this massive water slide, cornhole and a sidewalk chalk competition. In addition to the outdoor festivities, GulfQuest National Maritime Museum exhibits will be open from 2-7 p.m. with a $5.00 per person admission. Tickets can be purchased online. Please Prepurchase waterslide tickets. 251-202-6312 www.gulfquest.org 4th of July Fireworks 7:00 PM - 8:45 PM, OWA, 1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 Let’s get ready for an epic 4th of July! We’ll be celebrating Independence Day at OWA with family-friendly activities, live entertainment throughout the property, and a spectacular fireworks show at 8:45pm to cap-off the night! Catch our fireworks show anywhere around the property… you can’t miss it! visitowa.com Fairhope’s Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks Display 7:00 PM Fairhope Pier, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Fairhope’s Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks Display, Concert 7 pm & Fireworks 9 pm. www.fairhopeal.gov Fireworks on the Fantail ($50 for adults, $25 for children 6 to 12, children under 5 are free)

7:30 PM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Come celebrate July 4th on Mobile’s symbol of freedom, the USS ALABAMA. Enjoy an evening of music, barbeque, drinks, ice cream buffet, children’s activities and fireworks viewing from the bow of the ship. ussalabama.com The City of Gulf Shores Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration 9:00 PM 20800 E. Beach Blvd. Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 The City of Gulf Shores will celebrate the Fourth of July with a stunning fireworks display, beginning at 9 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4. Fireworks will be shot from the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier. Have dinner from one of our food trucks, listen to some music and have a nice relaxing evening. Daphne’s Fourth of July Celebration Al Trione Sports Complex, 8600 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, AL, 36526 Waterslides, Inflatables & Concessions all start at 5pm - Fireworks Begin at Dusk.

Friday July 5

First Friday Art Walk 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Fairhope First Friday Art Walk Visit our local merchants in Downtown Fairhope as they open late and highlight the art community. Art Walk happens every first Friday of each month from 6-8 p.m.

Daphne Farmer’s Market 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, 2305 US 98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Daphne Farmers Market

Rascal Flatts 7:30 PM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Rascal Flatts concert. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! Movie - Jaws townofdauphinisland.org Fireworks at the Fort The Fort Container Park, Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Live music and fun festivities! Fireworks will begin at 9:00 pm!

Saturday July 6

Pete the Cat Character Storytime at Barnes & Noble 12:00 PM Barnes & Noble, Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us for a very Special Storytime at Barnes & Noble in Spanish Fort featuring Pete the Cat! We will be reading stories, hosting activities, taking pictures and eating snacks! 251-621-3545 Magical Fairy Fun (Free) 2:00 PM Barnes & Noble, Eastern Shore Centre Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us for fairy fun crafts and storytime at your Spanish Fort Barnes and Noble. 251-621-3545 Independence Day Street Party and Fireworks 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Wharf, 4830 Main Street Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Join us for a fun-filled Independence Day Street Party complete with kids activities and fireworks. Admission is free with various activities ranging in price from $5-$10. Fireworks will be presented by Columbia Southern University. alwharf.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! Movie - Jaws townofdauphinisland.org

www.easternshoreparents.com

An 2:0 Bou as w ani ww bam

Sum 10: AL, Ban pan 251

Ph 3:3 Rd offe boy dat cos foo Eve

Fan Fan AL, 251

Wo 7:0 ing mis

FamilyCalendar Sunday July 7

en pm.

rd t nd

Monday July 8

Summer Reading Finale (Free) 10:30 AM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Summer reading finale featuring Excelsior Band, Prizes for Summer Reading Program Participants and Free Food. 251-620-2500 www.daphnelibrary.org Philip Rivers QB & WR Camps 3:30 PM St. Michael’s Catholic School, 11732 Higbee Rd Fairhope, AL, 36532 Two QB/WR camps will be offered this summer. The first date is on July 8th for boys 10-12 yrs old with a cost of $20. The second date is on July 9th for boys 13-15 yr olds with a cost of $20. Please bring cleats, tennis shoes and a football. A t-shirt will be provided. Eventbrite.com

Tuesday July 9 at

will es

Philip Rivers QB & WR Camps 3:30 PM St. Michael’s Catholic School, 11732 Higbee Rd Fairhope, AL, 36532 Two QB/WR camps will be offered this summer. The first date is on July 8th for boys 10-12 yrs old with a cost of $20. The second date is on July 9th for boys 13-15 yr olds with a cost of $20. Please bring cleats, tennis shoes and a football. A t-shirt will be provided. Eventbrite.com Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details on July 2. 251-928-1720 www.fantasyislandtoys.com

Wednesday July 10

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens 7:00 PM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Do not miss this very special evening astronomy program,

led by members of the University of South Alabama Department of Physics. Following a brief lecture in the Magnolia Room, guests will gather on the Great Lawn to view the night sky. Telescopes will be set up to view planets and constellations. 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org Blue Marlin Grand Championship The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The Greatest Show in Sportfishing is going to be in full force July 10th- 13th and this is your chance to see it in action! The Blue Marlin Grand Championship is unlike any other fishing tournament, it has huge fish and even bigger purses! It is the final leg of the Gulf Coast Triple Crown Series, so don’t miss the chance to witness this year’s tournament fleet and prized catches. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Thursday July 11

Fairhope Outdoor Farmers Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Behind the Fairhope Public Library , Fairhope, AL, 36532 Fairhope Outdoor Farmers Market, children’s activities every afternoon at 4:00pm. www.fairhopeal.gov Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series (Free) 8:00 PM Fairhope Community Park, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Moviegoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and a picnic and relax with the whole family. The DFBA will have FREE popcorn and will be giving away glow-in-the-dark necklaces before the movie. 251-929-1466 Blue Marlin Grand Championship The Wharf , 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The Greatest Show in Sportfishing is going to be in full force July 10th- 13th and this is your chance to see it in action! The Blue Marlin Grand Championship is unlike any other fishing tournament, it has huge fish and even bigger purses! It is the final leg of the Gulf Coast Triple Crown Series, so don’t miss the chance to witness this year’s tourna-

ment fleet and prized catches. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 2. 251-928-1720 www.fantasyislandtoys.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! townofdauphinisland.org

Friday July 12

Theatre 98 presents Dead Accounts 7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Jack’s unexpected return from Manhattan to his parents’ Cincinnati home throws his family into a frenzy, and his sister Lorna needs answers. Is he coming home or running away? Where is his wife everyone hates? And how did he get all that money? This contemporary comedy tackles the timely issues of corporate greed, small town values, and whether or not your family will always welcome you back… with no questions asked. 251-928-4366 www.theatre98.org Blue Marlin Grand Championship The Wharf , 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The Greatest Show in Sportfishing is going to be in full force July 10th- 13th and this is your chance to see it in action! The Blue Marlin Grand Championship is unlike any other fishing tournament, it has huge fish and even bigger purses! It is the final leg of the Gulf Coast Triple Crown Series, so don’t miss the chance to witness this year’s tournament fleet and prized catches. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring

ks 00 rf,

s d e

e e 0.

rd t nd

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

FamilyCalendar your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday July 13

Super Adoption Day with ARF 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us on Saturday, July 13 from 11am-2pm for a Superpower Dog adoption event! We have partnered with Animal Rescue Foundation in Theodore, Alabama (http:// www.animalrescuemobile.org/) to help find forever homes for our furry friends. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Theatre 98 presents Dead Accounts 7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 12. 251-928-4366 www.theatre98.org Blue Marlin Grand Championship The Wharf , 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The Greatest Show in Sportfishing is going to be in full force July 10th- 13th and this is your chance to see it in action! The Blue Marlin Grand Championship is unlike any other fishing tournament, it has huge fish and even bigger purses! It is the final leg of the Gulf Coast Triple Crown Series, so don’t miss the chance to witness this year’s tournament fleet and prized catches. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament Dauphin Island, AL The Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament is designed to bring families together and encourage sportsmanship. The tournament

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

takes place on the Saturday before the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. RMYAT is for children 15 years and younger and it typically attracts more than 1,500 young anglers. /adsfr.com/rmyat/

Sunday July 14

Dead Head Ride 6:30 AM Five Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 A challenging ride to support brain injured veterans and provide lifesaving care www.eventbrite.com Summer Classic Movie Series ($6 for adults; $3

for children 12 & under and seniors (60+))

3:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This summer, the SMG-managed Mobile Saenger Theatre will once again showcase a Summer Classic Movie Series featuring classic hit movies the way they were meant to be seen: larger-than-life on the glorious BIG screen! July 14 – Close Encounters of the Third Kind www.mobilesaenger.com Theatre 98 presents Dead Accounts 7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 12. 251-928-4366 www.theatre98.org

Matinee: American Eagle (Free) Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us as we screen “American Eagle,” a PBS Nature Documentary, showing all day in our theater. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Tuesday July 16

StoryTime: Animals Born Alive and Well (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us to read “Animals Born Alive and Well,” followed by arts and crafts. Story Time takes place the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month at 10 AM. Designed for children up to the age of 6 years. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 2. 251-928-1720 www.fantasyislandtoys.com

Wednesday July 17

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Join Executive Director Bill Barrick as he shares insights into his distinguished, 40-year career in public garden management. Dr. Barrick has served as Executive Director of Bellingrath Gardens and Home since 1999. Friday, July 19, will be his last official day of employment with Bellingrath Gardens and Home. 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

www.easternshoreparents.com

Fla 5:3 Roa of t win Exp 251

Nig 5:3 AL, bak The

Spr 6:0 Floo 360 San the Also exp Cos Plea the 251

Fan Fan AL, 251

Fre We Isla We Sna

ard erill

ll,” e

ens

n hts

Exe al d

FamilyCalendar Thursday July 18

Flavors of the South 5:30 PM Baldwin County Coliseum, 19477 Fairground Road Robertsdale, AL, 36567 Join us for our Flavors of the South Food & Wine Tasting event at the Baldwin County Coliseum. Featured is a Small Business Expo and a silent auction! 251-947-2626 Night Market at The Fort 5:30 PM The Fort Container Park, Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 A fun evening of shopping local makers, bakers, crafters, and artists at The Night Market at The Fort! Springhill Medical Center’s For Boys Only Class 6:00 PM Gerald L. Wallace Conference Center (4th Floor, Building 2), 3715 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 3608 Boys ages 10 and older can hear Dr. John Sands, pediatrician with Pediatric Associates, discuss the physical changes to be expected as boys mature. Also, he will provide information on what girls are experiencing at the same age. Light meal provided. Cost: FREE! Call 460-5447 to make a reservation. Please leave a message with your son’s name and the parent who will accompany him in the class. 251-460-5447 Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 2. 251-928-1720 www.fantasyislandtoys.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring

your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! townofdauphinisland.org

Friday July 19

Luke Bryan 7:00 PM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Luke Bryan Concert. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com Theatre 98 presents Dead Accounts 7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 12. 251-928-4366 www.theatre98.org Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island, AL The 86th Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 19-21, 2019. The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, a Project of the Mobile Jaycees, is the largest fishing tournament in the world. adsfr.com Free Family Movie Night

(Free)

West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating

and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday July 20

9th Annual Dauphin Street Vault 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM, Downtown Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL, 36602 The Dauphin Street Vault (DSV) is a not-for-profit grassroots event to raise awareness for the pole vault and create an opportunity for spectators to see the event up close. Whether you’re competing in the event or just watching, you’ll enjoy the block party atmosphere. www.dauphinstreetvault.org Beautiful Bog and Explore Day (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Graham Creek Nature Preserve, 23030 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 Take a wagon ride to the Pitcher Plant bog and get an eco-tour. Free event for children 10 and under. grahamcreekpreserve.org Apollo 11 - 50th Anniversary Celebration 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Apollo 11 - 50th Anniversary Celebration 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Luke Bryan 7:00 PM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Luke Bryan Concert. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com Theatre 98 presents Dead Accounts 7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 12. 251-928-4366 www.theatre98.org

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

FamilyCalendar Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island, AL The 86th Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 19-21, 2019. The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, a Project of the Mobile Jaycees, is the largest fishing tournament in the world. adsfr.com

Sunday July 21

Animal Ambassadors (Free) 2:00 PM Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at 2pm as we present one or more of our live educational animals. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Theatre 98 presents Dead Accounts 2:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 12. 251-928-4366 www.theatre98.org Summer Classic Movie Series ($6 for adults; $3 for children 12 & under and seniors (60+))

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island, AL The 86th Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 19-21, 2019. The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, a Project of the Mobile Jaycees, is the largest fishing tournament in the world. adsfr.com

Tuesday July 23

Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 2. 251-928-1720 www.fantasyislandtoys.com

Wednesday July 24

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 According to those who knew her best, Bessie Morse Bellingrath “hated liquor worse than God hates sin.” And yet, her collection includes a wide variety of beautiful objects created to serve or contain everything from gin to champagne. Displayed throughout the Home are case glass decanters, Sheffield wine coolers, a ceramic book disguising a liquor flask and assorted glassware designed to serve an array of wines and liqueurs. Join Museum Home Director Tom McGehee as we take a look at these alcohol-related treasures within a teetotaler’s collection. 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

Thursday July 25

Theatre 98 presents Dead Accounts 7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Jack’s unexpected return from Manhattan to his parents’ Cincinnati home throws his family into a frenzy, and his sister Lorna needs answers. Is he coming home or running away? Where is his wife everyone hates? And how did he get all that money? This contemporary comedy tackles the timely issues of corporate greed, small town values, and whether or not your family will always welcome you back… with no questions asked. 251-928-4366 www.theatre98.org Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 2. 251-928-1720 www.fantasyislandtoys.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! townofdauphinisland.org

Fre We Isla We Sna you and ple per tow

201

$10

10: Driv Soc frie Sat rela con and 251

Friday July 26

Theatre 98 presents Dead Accounts 7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 12. 251-928-4366 www.theatre98.org

www.easternshoreparents.com

and priz cal,

, an nto e

y? es er

hin

m).

FamilyCalendar Free Family Movie Night (Free) West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday July 27

2019 Baldwin Humane Society Pet Expo (Free,

$10 entry fee for contests)

10:00 AM Loxley Civic Center, 4198 Municipal Park Drive Loxley, AL, 36551 The 2019 Baldwin Humane Society Pet Expo will be an indoor, family and pet friendly event held in the Loxley Civic Center on Saturday July 27th. This event will be full of a pet related vendors, activities like best trick and costume contests, training demos, a rabies clinic, adoptions and much more! 251-964-7733 4th Annual Love U Love U Day (Free) 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 School shoes, uniforms, supplies, and socks will be given away to anyone in need. Come out and enjoy free food, games, music, and great door prizes. Physicians will be onsite providing free medical, dental, vision, and mental screens and exams for

kids, parents, and seniors. The Mobile Sports Hall of Fame will have members on site signing autographs. loveuloveu.org

Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island Sunset Concerts. townofdauphinisland.org

Superpower Dog Days with Alabama Task Force K9 Team 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for a look into the real world of Search and Rescue K9 training in conjunction with our summer IMAX film, Superpower Dogs! 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com

Alta Fish River Star Party: Delta Aquariids Meteor Shower 10:00 PM Weeks Bay Foundation, 11401 US-98 Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join us at the newly acquired Alta Fish River Property (off of County Rd 33) to watch the Delta Aquariids Meteor Shower.

Theatre 98 presents Dead Accounts 7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 12. 251-928-4366 www.theatre98.org

Sunday July 28

Theatre 98 presents Dead Accounts 2:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 12. 251-928-4366 www.theatre98.org Summer Classic Movie Series ($6 for adults; $3 for

children 12 & under and seniors (60+))

3:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This summer, the SMG-managed Mobile Saenger Theatre will once again showcase a Summer Classic Movie Series featuring classic hit movies the way they were meant to be seen: larger-than-life on the glorious BIG screen! July 28 – Dirty Dancing www.mobilesaenger.com Town of Dauphin Island Sunday Sunset Concert ($5 per person (ages 12 and under free)) 6:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard

Matinee: Life in the Undergrowth (Free) Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us as we screen “Life in the Undergrowth,” a BBC production hosted by Sir David Attenborough, showing all day in our theater. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Tuesday July 30

3rd Annual Spanish Fort Public Library Ice Cream Social 6:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36537 Come out all readers, library lovers and community to have ice cream and celebration as we eat some yummy ice cream. The ice cream social marks the end of our Summer Reading Program and is also a celebration for all of our readers during summer 2019. www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 2. 251-928-1720 www.fantasyislandtoys.com

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

FamilyCalendar Wednesday July 31

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home ($43 for members; $40 for the children of

members ages 5-12; $56 for adult non-members; and $48 for non-members ages 5-12.)

10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Go behind the scenes of Bellingrath’s famous Magic Christmas in Lights show and learn how you can create your own magic from our experts. Guests may select a metal frame created by our team and then learn how to attach lights to decorate the piece. All materials will be supplied and are included in the cost of the program. A salad/sandwich buffet lunch is also included. Space is limited and reservations are required to attend, so be sure to make your reservation early for this one-of-a-kind workshop! 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

Thursday August 1

Daphne Public Library Ice cream Party (Free) 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM, Daphne Recreation Department, Daphne, AL, 35616 Ice Cream Party 251-620-2500 www.daphnelibrary.org Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation’s Annual Professional Rodeo ($15.00 for adults, $8.00 for children ages 3-12 years old, and free for ages 2 and under. Ticket price includes all Kids Zone activities and the Rodeo. )

6:00 PM Foley Horse Arena, 113 E Rosetta Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 Come and watch some of the nation’s professional cowgirls and cowboys compete for top prize money. Rodeo action begins nightly at 8:00pm at the Foley Horse Arena with children’s activities starting at 6:00pm jennifermoorefoundation.com Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 2. 251-928-1720 www.fantasyislandtoys.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! townofdauphinisland.org

Free Family Movie Night (Free) West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday August 3

Commemoration of Battle of Mobile Bay 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Fort Morgan, 110 Hwy 180 Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 The fort will come alive with drills and demonstrations of artillery from historical interpreters. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation’s Annual Professional Rodeo ($15.00 for adults, $8.00 for

children ages 3-12 years old, and free for ages 2 and under. Ticket price includes all Kids Zone activities and the Rodeo. )

Sunday August 4

South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Disney’s Aladdin Jr.” 2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Disney’s Aladdin Jr.” sbct.biz Summer Classic Movie Series ($6 for adults; $3 for children 12 & under and seniors (60+))

3:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This summer, the SMG-managed Mobile Saenger Theatre will once again showcase a Summer Classic Movie Series featuring classic hit movies the way they were meant to be seen: largerthan-life on the glorious BIG screen! Aug. 4 – Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone www.mobilesaenger.com

Friday August 2

Pelican Paddle 9:00 PM - 12:00 PM, Weeks Bay Reserve, 11300 U.S. Highway 98 Fairhope, AL, 36532 2019 Pelican Paddle. 251-990-5004 weeksbay.org/

Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation’s Annual Professional Rodeo ($15.00 for adults, $8.00 for

children ages 3-12 years old, and free for ages 2 and under. Ticket price includes all Kids Zone activities and the Rodeo. )

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

events/pelican-paddle/

Tuesday August 6

Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Create some summer fun and join our activity classes! Parents and caregivers are encouraged to stay and watch the creativity unfold! Classes usually last 30 minutes to an hour. Spots fill quickly and

sign up fees must be paid at the time of registration. All of our activities only cost $5.00 per child and they generally last around 30 to 45 minutes. Times: 11:00am and 1:00pm. For a detailed schedule, please call or visit our website. 251-928-1720 www.fantasyislandtoys.com

Wednesday August 7

Slugs Bugs and Snails Explore Day (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Graham Creek Nature Preserve, 23030 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 Free eco-educational activities for children 10 and under. grahamcreekpreserve.org

Thursday August 8

Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series (Free) 8:00 PM Fairhope Community Park, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Moviegoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and a picnic and relax with the whole family. The DFBA will have FREE popcorn and will be giving away glow-in-the-dark necklaces before the movie. 251-929-1466 Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Details July 2. 251-928-1720 www.fantasyislandtoys.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! townofdauphinisland.org

Friday August 9

South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Disney’s Aladdin Jr.” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Disney’s Aladdin Jr.” sbct.biz Free Family Movie Night (Free) West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday August 10

South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Disney’s Aladdin Jr.” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Disney’s Aladdin Jr.” sbct.biz South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Disney’s Aladdin Jr.” 2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Disney’s Aladdin Jr.” sbct.biz

www.easternshoreparents.com

arti am 251

Ma 2:0 For clas and you fun sup ww

Ev Au

Spa 8:4 Bea sho aw act 251

on.

ket e be

hin

m).

FamilyCalendar Every Sunday thru August 11

Painting Under The Palms ($10) 5:30 PM 8:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Let the artist inside you come out this summer and see what amazing works of art you can create! 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Every Monday in July

Make it Monday 2:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36537 This hands on art class will allow kids to explore a wealth of unique and creative, Makes, that you can take home with you for your growing art collection. Free and creative fun for those budding artists out there, this is a super kid friendly event. www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Every Monday thru August 5

Sparks After Dark Fireworks Show (Free) 8:45 PM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The Sparks After Dark fireworks show will flash to life again this summer! You’ll have a weekly chance to catch the high-flying flickers in action. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Every Monday in July

Movie Monday 2:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Children ages 4-12 must have a parent or guardian present. Their movies, rated G or PG, will be shown in the Giddens Auditorium. Teens ages 13-18 may be dropped off and they are invited to watch movies with other teens in the Activity Room. A listing of all movie titles, ratings, and run times can be picked up in the Youth Services Department or found posted on our website. 251-928-7483 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Movie on the Lane 6:00 PM Eastern Shore Lanes, 10460 Eastern Shore Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 251-622-8322 eslanes.com

Every Tuesday thru August 6

Bible Story Time (Free) 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Eastern Shore Church of Christ, 1209 Daphne Avenue Daphne, AL, 36526 Join us each Tuesday in July & August for a Bible story, songs, puppet show, craft, and a snack. Ages 2 - 10 years. 251-626-7345 www.escoc.net Kids Night (Free to Attend, Face Painting $5-$10) 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 We are bringing back Kids Night weekly at The Wharf, focusing purely on the little ones. Family-friendly and safe, this exciting night will take place each Tuesday in Palm Plaza right next to the Ferris Wheel. DJ Josh will provide the jams while you get into the groove with face painting, games, a bouncy house, water slide and much more! Every Tuesday will be a little different

with varying themes to keep the excitement fresh…. including a Toxic Battle Zone and live animals. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Every Tuesday in July

Tween Time Activity Room 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Tweens, ages 9-12, will enjoy a story, game or library challenge, and maker activity. Parents do not need to stay in the room, but must be present at the library. Contact Youth Services at (251) 929-1465 for questions about individual activities. 251-928-7483 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Tween Minecraft 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Minecraft computer and coding game for Tweens ages 9 - 12 years is held every Tuesday. Sign-ups are required for each Minecraft session. Sign up on Eventbrite.com. 251-928-7483 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Fort Morgan Living History Evening Tours 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Fort Morgan, 110 Hwy 180 Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Fort Morgan Historic Site comes to life on Tuesday evenings during June and July. Historic eras of the fort’s military history are portrayed by staff in period clothing. Stationed throughout the fort you will encounter Weapons demonstration, artillery shoot, laundresses, and soldiers. See what it would have been like to live at Fort Morgan during the Civil War, WWI and WWII, then watch the sun set to finish your visit. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org

hin

m).

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

FamilyCalendar Read and Discover: Story Time 10:30 AM Page and Palette, 32 S. Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 Read and Discover - (Ages 2-6) Join Miss Paula for early learning activities, Inspired by a different book each week. 251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com

Every Wednesday in July

Story Time 10:30 AM Page and Palette, 32 S. Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 Story Time! (Ages 0-6). Miss Stephanie presents family storytime for all to enjoy! 251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com

Every Wednesday thru August 7

Pepsi Treasure Hunt (Free) 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Join us every Wednesday night from 5 to 8pm for the Pepsi Treasure Hunt! Stop by Marlin Circle first to get your treasure map and the quest is on! Find the items on the map then return back to where “X” marks the spot to collect your treasure! Stay for our nightly SPECTRA Sound and Light Show and see Pirate Philippe “Stinky” Lafitte. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Every Thursday in July

Code Club - Spanish Fort Library 3:30 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36537 Every Thursday! Join SFPL for this free weekly club that helps kids aged 8-18 to learn how to code. Made possible through an Institute of Museum and Library Services grant. This weekly code club is first come, first served and holds 15 students max. Ages are 8 to 18 and participants are asked to bring their own laptop. www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Every Thursday thru August 8

Circus on Main (Admission is Free; some activities may have prices varying from $5-$10)

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Balloon Artist, Stilt Walker, Magician, Face Painter and Train Rides 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Every Friday in July

Astronaut in Training (Free) 1:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36537 Being an astronaut is SO COOL! But, it takes a long time and a lot of hard work! Spanish Fort Public Library staff members have put together a few fun dexterity and coordination activities geared towards children ages 8 - 14 years old. www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org Movie Friyay’s: Daphne Public Library (Free) 10:30 AM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 35616 Friday movies at the library. 251-620-2500 www.daphnelibrary.org Kids Book Trivia 11:00 AM Page and Palette, 32 S. Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 Kids Book Trivia - (Grades 2-4) 251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com

Classes/Support Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) Offering Adoptive Family Support Group Meetings in Baldwin County the 2nd Thursday of each month. The

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019

meeting is held at 3 Circle Church, 10274 Highway 104, Fairhope. from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Parent, Youth/Teen group and childcare is available. Topic discussions by adoption professionals and ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information call 251-460-2727 or 1-800-4891886 or www.childrensaid.org. APAC also offers free counsuling services to adoptive families. Bridge Support Group A place where parents with similar experiences come together to share stories, advice and love. These families have had babies who: were stillborn, born with a lethal anomaly (such as Trisomy 13, Trisomy 18, skeletal dysplasia, anencephaly) or had a baby that only lived in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Our families are from all over the Gulf Coast and all have beautiful stories to tell. Meets 1st Tuesday of every month, 5:30pmuntil. Dinner is served. 1st floor conference room of Strada Center, 1601 Center Street, Mobile. Contact: Rene Sprague RN, MSN rgilstrapsprague@health. southalabama.edu, 251-610-5264. Please RSVP if you plan to attend. Celebration MOPS Fairhope (Meets During School Year Only) 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 $30 per semester. Call for info at 251928-0343 or like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/ celebrationmopsfairhopeal. Family Center’s Positive Parenting Classes are held on Tuesday mornings 9:30-11:30 am and Responsible Parenting with focus on fathers, co-parenting and economic stability/child support are Wednesday mornings 9 am-11 am and Monday evenings 6 pm-8pm. Call 251-947-4700 to register for either class. at The Family Center is located at 22671 Hwy. 59 South, Robertsdale. Fairhope MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) (Meets During School Year Only) We meet 9:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. every 2nd & 4th Monday (during the school year) at Fairhope United Methodist Church. All mothers of young children are welcome. Email fairhopemops@ yahoo.com for how to register. Father Central of Daphne *Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men, $75 giftcard upon completion. Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Call 251-626-1610 to register, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Chill Skills” - Anger Management by appointment. $25 giftcard upon completion. Call 251-626-1610 schedule, The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Nurturing Parenting, everything you need to know but were afraid to ask. Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Jump in on any Thursday! Call 251-626-1610 to register, 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne. 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. SOS (Survivors of Suicide) This group is for adults who has ever lost a loved one to suicide. SOS meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of EVERY month from 6:30 to approximately 8:00 p.m. at the Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 S. Section Street, Fairhope. The support group is facilitated by a professional and co-facilitated by two survivors. For information, please email jlbarber5@ bellsouth.net or call 251-455-6453. 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. $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. • 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. 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 info contact 949-3781.

www.easternshoreparents.com

Tho Bre Tho Tue Inf Tho req 4Mo Thr wh

wo @

SupportGroups 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

ds with

of on.

ses

g, t, and es. ry

se r,

nt es,

fits

. l ey. .

le ing

partner for the labor and delivery experience. $30 fee for the class series. Thomas Fitness Center, (Fairhope) Mondays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope) Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Tuesdays, 6-8:30 p.m. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Pre-registration required. Call 251- 279-1373 or visit www.thomashospital.com for upcoming classes and registration. Natural Childbirth Classes, Fertility Awareness, Mother’s Comfort, Exercise and Nutrition For class schedule or 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. Sibling Class Thomas Hospital

Fitness Center (Fairhope). Pre-registration 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 Harborl. Call 800-477-1104. Alateen Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room East Tower meeting room at Thomas Hospital. Call 391-1152 for info. 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 for Women Meetings are held the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room. For more information, call Patti Huval at 209-1229.

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!

Your Health Matters. Quality Care Matters. Michael Rhodes Lee, MD

John S. Wilson, MD

Dr. Lee and Dr. Wilson specialize in pediatric and adult Ear, Nose & Throat care. From a sore throat, or runny nose to allergies and allergy testing, Drs. Lee and Wilson treat everyday ENT illnesses to complex surgeries. Schedule your appointment today. MOBILE • DAPHNE

Daphne & Mobile Offices 1302 Hwy 98 • Daphne • 251-410-9000

Visit us online at pmg.md

2880 Dauphin Street • Mobile • 251-473-1900

es.

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Men in Black: International

The Secret Life of Pets 2

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: CViolence: C Sexual Content: BProfanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ Ever since she saw her parents get memory-wiped by the Men in Black as a child, Molly (Tessa Thompson) has been searching for the shadowy organization that regulates alien activity on Earth. Once she finds them and joins up, she realizes that things are far more dangerous than she realized. Now codenamed Agent M, she teams up with Agent H (Chris Hemsworth) to find a mole deep in Men in Black’s London office. I may see a lot of movies, but it’s a really bad sign if I can accurately predict the entire plot of the movie in the first ten minutes. It’s so formulaic I actually started second guessing myself at one point, thinking “Surely, no one is unironically following this tired premise so faithfully. There must be a twist coming!” Tragically, there wasn’t. The movie just plods along down the familiar path with no new twists, turns, or anything to spice up the bland monotony of it all. If they can stand the boredom, parents will find a few other issues to be concerned about. Surprisingly for a movie about fighting aliens, the violence is less graphic than previous entries in the franchise. The profanity is also milder. The sexual content isn’t graphic, but it is uncomfortable. Both instances of notable sexual language or behavior are in coercive situations, and the coercive nature of those actions is never discussed or addressed in any meaningful way. For the most part though, this is a harmless popcorn flick. It may be devastatingly dull, astoundingly unoriginal, and generally pointless, but it isn’t outright offensive. There are just much better ways to spend your time.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: A Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B The film opens with Max (voiced by Patton Oswalt), the lovable and mildly neurotic star of the prequel. Max’s anxiety really takes off when his owner marries and has a baby, giving Max a consuming need to protect the infant from all dangers, real or imagined. Max’s owner takes him to the vet, where he is fitted with a “cone of shame” to stop his stress-induced compulsive scratching. And then, when the family heads off for a family vacation, Max is forced to confront a whole new set of potential dangers. Max isn’t alone in a perilous world...his fellow apartment dwellers are facing their own challenges. As if juggling two plots isn’t enough, this production adds a third, which is probably one too many for young viewers. Snowball the rabbit (voiced loudly and irritatingly by Kevin Hart) is convinced he is a superhero and gets recruited by Daisy to rescue a lion cub from a circus where he is being mistreated. And this plot is where the movie goes over the cliff. I assumed this movie was aimed at young children, but there is far too much violence in this plot for kids. The owner of the circus whips the tiger, shoots him with a tranquilizer gun, threatens him with a revolver and a taser, repeatedly vows to turn animals into coats or rugs, and sets wolves on other animals. As Max says, “You never know what life is going to throw at you. You have two choices: run from it or run at it.” Ironically, The Secret Life of Pets contains too much violent content for young viewers who need to hear that message.

Dark Phoenix

Toy Story 4

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: A Profanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: BOn a mission to save the crew of the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the X-Men encounter a massive wave of...something in space. Although they rescue the crew, Jean Grey (Sophie Turner) doesn’t make it out of the shuttle in time and is hit by the anomaly. When the wave passes, the rest of the X-Men find her floating in space, as healthy as ever. Upon their return to Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters, they realize Jean might not be as well as she seems, and worse still, her powers might be growing out of control. There are quite a few things I liked about this film. For one, this is the only X-Men movie that confronts Charles Xavier’s (James McAvoy) manipulative behavior and its consequences in any depth. Dark Phoenix also takes a more compassionate view of Erik Lensherr, aka Magneto (Michael Fassbender), who has been a dubiously relatable villain in the past. On the downside, the film’s pacing is a bit wonky. The first two acts feel reined in, not slow exactly, just taking their time with the characters and subjects. By act three, things speed up, but rather than giving a sense of accelerating intensity, the movie just starts to feel rushed. Maybe that’s part of the reason I found it vaguely unsatisfying. Parental concerns are going to be about the same as with other superhero movies, with violence being the primary issue. This film is slightly more graphic than some others in the franchise – leading to its very appropriate PG13 rating. And although it gets an automatic C grade from us for having one extreme profanity, there’s very little other cussing.

MPAA Rating: G Overall: A Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A When I saw the trailer for Toy Story 4, I was afraid that Pixar was making an unnecessary sequel in pursuit of the almighty dollar. But as the movie played out across the screen, I fell under its spell. Toy Story 4 is an enchanting movie, filled with humor, pathos, charm, and gentle wisdom. Beginning where the third film left off, Andy’s toys have all adjusted to life with Bonnie (voiced by Madeleine McGraw) – except for Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks). No longer the favorite toy, Woody is often left in the closet to gather dust. But when an apprehensive Bonnie has to go to kindergarten orientation, Woody sees a role for himself and hides in her backpack. He’s instrumental in helping Bonnie on her first day at school and she comes home proudly carrying Forky, a spork she has turned into a toy. The introduction of Forky, hilariously voiced by Tony Hale, is where this movie takes off. Toy Story 4 rides high on a tide of laughter, buoyed up by comic action sequences, plenty of funny dialogue, and the usual collection of oddball characters. Buzz Lightyear, still voiced by the inimitable Tim Allen, decides that the buttons on his chest that provide pre-recorded phrases are the source of his “inner voice” and decides to follow whatever directions they provide – with predictably hilarious results. Best of all, the strong positive messages and wonderful comic scenes come with little negative content, aside from some moments of peril and minor violent content which are necessary to drive the plot. Moviegoers will marvel at how a motley collection of animated toys manage to climb out of their toybox and into their hearts.

Eastern Shore Parents I July 2019