SOUTH BALDWIN REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER
invites you to spend an evening with
Elizabeth S mart
“Overcoming Adversity” Thursday, August 23, 2012 • 6-9 p.m. Orange Beach Event Center at The Wharf
Elizabeth Smart Abduction survivor, gifted communicator, author and ABC News contributor
The abduction of Elizabeth Smart was one of the most followed child abduction cases of our time. She was abducted in 2002 and held prisoner for nine months. Elizabeth will share insight to overcoming extreme adversity in a traumatic situation. Her example and life now is a daily demonstration that there really is life after a tragic event. Elizabeth’s presentation not only tells her story, but also discusses topics such as overcoming extreme adversity and not allowing your past to dictate your life’s future.
Individual Tickets: $40 – All tickets include dinner. Seating is limited, and tickets are required. For individual ticket purchases, visit www.SouthBaldwinRMC.com/HealthyWoman
In partnership with:
Join Healthy Woman today by visiting www.SouthBaldwinRMC.com/HealthyWoman or call 251-949-3479. Membership is FREE, and the benefits last a lifetime.
www.SouthBaldwinRMC.com/HealthyWoman Contact Kim Neal at 251-949-3479 or kim_neal@chs.net for more information.
Contents July 2012 Volume 5 Number 2
Features 38 Bust a Mood!
Discover what particular situations cause bad moods in your children and three strategies for helping them put on a happy face.
44 After School Activities Guide
The new school year is right around the corner and registration begins soon for after school activities of all kinds. Our guide is your resource on the Eastern Shore!
56 College Application Time!
Find 3 ways to help your student and keep perspective over this often daunting process.
Columns
62 Summer Safety Slip-Ups
While summertime brings lots of fun, it also brings an increased risk for childhood accidents. Learn common mistakes parents make and how to avoid them.
2 From One Parent to Another Lynn Knighton
5 Living With Children John Rosemond
On The Cover
18 Kids Health
Departments
36 Get This!
6 Bits and Pieces
40 The FlyLady
20 School Bits
by Dr. Robert L. Rux, M.D.
Paige Gardner Smith
Marla Cilley
70 Family Calendar
42 Dave Says Dave Ramsey
66 A Page in a Book Paige Gardner Smith
80 Movie Reviews Parent Previews
Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com
Tipton Smith (8), son of Anne and Tommy Smith and brother to Walker (age 15) and Evans (age 12). Grandparents are Kathie and Hamp Uzzelle, Eugenia Smith and Archie Smith. Tipton loves to play soccer and basketball, create art projects and listen to music.
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EasternShoreParents
The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source
Eastern Shore Parents Magazine, is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant, role in our community. Eastern Shore Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com
Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com
Associate Editor Kelly Watson kelly@easternshoreparents.com
Research Editor Karen Jones
Advertising Opportunities Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall
ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099
Contributing Writers Marla Cilley Sandra Gordon Dave Ramsey Michele Ranard, M.Ed. John Rosemond Dr. Robert L. Rux, M.D. Paige Gardner Smith
Cover Photography Erin Creel www.erincreelphotography.com
President
Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com
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 2012 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.
Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
From One Parent to Another... It seems everyone I run into lately comments on what a wonderful summer they are having. I have to agree! I think having the summer break extended an extra week has people a lot more relaxed. There is not as much pressure to squeeze everything in so quickly. All the great activities available to us helps, too. I would like to personally give a big “Thank You” to the local libraries, which have many activities for families. There is something every day! During our most recent visit, I got a little nostalgic remembering when my mom used to take me to the library and was reminded of that extra special day I received my very own library card. You would have thought I had received a driver’s license. In some ways, it is a little like a driver’s license. It gives you the freedom to explore new worlds, yet comes with responsibility. Having remembered how it made me feel, I asked the girls if they would like to “apply” for their very own library cards. Of course, they were thrilled! They filled out their own forms and I waited and watched as they walked up to the resource desk. As the librarian issued each of them their own cards, their faces lit up with pride. When we got home, all three ran in to show Daddy. It was really sweet! While I do enjoy watching them take these new steps towards growing up, it is also a reminder of how FAST it is happening. It doesn’t seem that long ago when I was playing Barbies with my niece and now she is going to be a senior and is visiting colleges! I asked my brother if he was sad about her going off and he quickly explained to me that there has been no time for sadness. I have heard this from friends, too. Apparently between the stress of ACT/SAT testing, plus making sure your child has the right amount of activities, grades, and application essays there is more stress than sadness. According to Michele Ranard, M.Ed., some people can go overboard with the stress of applying to colleges. In her article, College Application Time! 3 Wise Ways to Help Your Student & Keep Perspective, she give some great advice that should help families during the process. She also shares some tips from professional college consultant, Arlene Matthews, author of Getting In Without Freaking Out, who addresses the debate over how many activities are enough or too much. As for my girls, we are still trying to explore their interests by trying different activities and seeing what fits best for them. I have to admit, I do have a tendency to steer them to like the things I enjoy or enjoyed as a child, but I am realizing that while it is a lot of fun to play tennis with my girls, exploring their interests and having them teach me things is even more fun! If you are starting to think about fall activities for your children, check out the After School Activities Directory in this month’s issue. No, I’m not rushing us “back to school”, we just like to make families aware of all the great opportunities available. Also, many of these activities start registration in July and early August, so it is a great time to start looking. I hope you all continue to enjoy a wonderful summer. Make sure you also check out our other articles to make this summer the best yet. Sandra Gordon helps up avoid household mishaps with Summer Safety Slip-ups, an article on common mistakes to avoid, and Bust A Mood: 3 Strategies to Calm Beastly Moods is a good reminder of things we as parents can do to help keep our children calm and happy. Have a terrific month!
Lynn
Lynn Knighton, Publisher 2
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Living With Children
By John Rosemond
Helping a Child Who is “Stuck” in the Grieving Process Q:
My husband was killed nearly a year ago, and my 11-yearold son is still having a difficult time with it. Before the accident, he was always cheerful and social and hardly ever complained. That still describes him, most of the time, but every now and again he slips into moods where he is just the opposite. These episodes occur once every couple of weeks and last for a couple of days, on average. I took him to see a therapist a while back, but I saw no change after three months of weekly sessions, so I took him out. When these moods happen, we talk about how special his dad was and how much he misses him, but I don’t think I’m making any headway. Any suggestions would be much appreciated.
A:
Over the past forty or so years, a number of researchers have identified and generated a fairly extensive body of literature concerning the stages of the grieving process. These include denial, anger, depression, and final acceptance. The general feeling among mental health professionals is that the process should be allowed to run its course, which takes longer in some individuals than in others. That’s generally good advice, but as is the case with most general rules, there are exceptions. Some people, for example, get “hung up” at some point in the process. They need facilitators who can help them get unstuck and move on. That role can be served by a therapist, a friend who’s gone through the process, or a group of people who are all grieving for similar reasons. When a child gets stuck, as seems to be the case with your son, it is often the case that continued discussion of the child’s feelings is going to make matters worse rather than better. I was recently discussing this very issue with a psychologist who works with military families who have lost a loved one in war. He said that one of his biggest Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com
challenges is recognizing when talking about a person’s feelings has become counterproductive. My educated guess is that your son has reached the point where the more he talks about how much he misses his dad, the more he’s going to miss his dad and the more often he’s going to slip into these funks of his. He needs someone to help him get unstuck, and I suggest that you’re in the best position to give him that gentle push. After all, there’s no one he trusts more than you. Don’t wait for the next episode. Instead, talk to him when the proverbial iron is cold. Say something along these lines: “I’ve noticed that when we talk about your dad and how much you miss him, we are talking about things we’ve talked about before. That’s good, because it means that there’s really nothing more to say. So I’ve decided that from now on, we’re only going to talk about your dad twice a month, every other Saturday morning (for example) right after breakfast. That’s the best time because neither of us has to be anywhere and we can talk as long as we need to. The new rule, however, is that we can’t talk about stuff we’ve already talked about. We have to talk about new stuff.” That will mean that you have to enforce two rules: first, you only talk twice a month; second, you don’t go over stuff you’ve already talked about. Initially, you may need to say things like, “I’ve noticed that you might be thinking about your dad again. That’s fine. Take some time to think about what we’re going to talk about next Saturday. Write it down so you don’t forget, but remember, we only talk about new stuff.” The combination of your authority and the new rules will provide exactly what he needs to begin resolving his sadness and moving on. The likelihood is, when it comes time for a scheduled talk session, he really won’t have much, if anything, to talk about. That, in fact, is the goal.
Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
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bits & pieces Free Admission to Bellingrath Gardens on August 6th
Born in Atlanta, Georgia, on August 6, 1869, Walter D. Bellingrath was Mobile's first Coca-Cola bottler and the founder of Bellingrath Gardens and Home. In honor of Mr. Bellingrath's Birthday, admission to the Gardens will be free to all Mobile and Baldwin County residents on August 6th. There will be an additional charge to tour the Bellingrath Museum Home or take the River Cruise. Walter Bellingrath married Bessie Mae Morse of Mobile in 1906. After his wife's 1943 death Bellingrath dedicated the rest of his life to work on the gardens she had worked so hard to create. In 1955, at his death at the age of 86, his estate had been converted over to the Bellingrath-Morse Foundation to oversee the operation of his beloved Gardens and to open his home to the public. Profits beyond those needed to operate Bellingrath Gardens and Home benefitted Central Presbyterian Church, St. Francis Methodist Church and provide scholarships at Huntington College in Montgomery, Ala., Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, and Rhodes College in Memphis (formerly Southwestern University).
Scrapbookers Invited to Crop for a Cure in Daphne
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Crop for a Cure will be held on July 28 from 9 a.m. ‘til 9 p.m. at Jubilee Baptist Church in Daphne. This event was a huge success last year! This year’s proceeds will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Classes will be offered along with door prizes, contests and a raffle. Registration is $50. Includes meals. Visit www.daphnecrop.blogspot.com for more information and registration form, or contact Jackie Barfield at 251-454-9545 for more information or to be a vendor.
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Great Expectations a Show for Mobile and Baldwin County Moms-to-Be
To help prepare expecting parents, Infirmary Health hosts two free mother-to-be events in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Expectant mothers, new mothers and hope-to-be moms, their friends and family are invited to Great Expectations, to be held on Sunday, July 15 at Thomas Hospital in the main lobby and Sunday, July 29 in the atrium of Mobile Infirmary, from 1 to 4 p.m. Attendees have the opportunity to visit one-on-one with medical professionals, check out the finest baby products and find out about and register for premiere services. Some of the event highlights include relaxing mommy pampering, a maternity fashion show, car seat installations and amazing door prizes. For more information contact Jennifer Vellianitis in the Infirmary Health marketing communications department at 435-3912 or e-mail jennifer. vellianitis@infirmaryhealth.org.
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54th Annual Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament
The 54th Annual Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament, sponsored by Exxon-Mobil, will be held Saturday, July 14th. The weigh station will be open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. with the tournament beginning at 5 a.m. This event is open to all anglers 15 years old and younger. The real purpose of the Roy Martin Tournament is to instill sportsmanship and a love of fishing in our young anglers. Every angler that weighs in a fish will receive a pair of tickets to a Mobile Bay Bears game, a hot dog, a bag of potato chips, a Coke, and ice cream. The proceeds will go toward the annual Children’s Christmas Shopping Tour sponsored by the Mobile Jaycees. The awards ceremony for the Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament will be held immediately following the tournament at the ADSFR site. Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament tickets will go on sale Thursday June 14th at the following locations: Academy Sports and Outdoors, Bay Bank, Quint’s Hardware & Sporting Goods, Greer’s Food Store, Jemison’s Bait & Tackle, Dauphin Island Marina, Sportsman’s Marine, Blue water Ships Store, and J&M Tackle. Ticket prices are$ 3 per angler. For more information, visit www.adsfr.com.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
bits & pieces 15th Annual Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation Professional Rodeo
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Professional cowboys and cowgirls from across the country are gearing up and heading out for the 15th Annual Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation Professional Rodeo on Thursday, August 2, through Saturday, August 4, at the City of Foley Horse Arena. The Rodeo features exciting events including bull riding, barrel racing, bareback riding, calf roping, team roping, steer wrestling, break away roping, and more. Pre-rodeo activities begin at 7 p.m. and the Rodeo begins at 8 p.m. nightly. All proceeds benefit the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides training, funding and support for peer-to-peer programs in all Baldwin County public elementary, intermediate, middle and high schools and two private school systems. The Peer Helper program is a certified curriculum taught by trained teachers and counselors who prepare students to become mentors, tutors, mediators and friends to their fellow students. Peer Helpers assist other young people in coping with both the academic and social pressures of dayto-day life. Pre-Rodeo festivities at 7 p.m. include “Hometown Heroes” on Thursday night, a tribute to military and emergency services personnel; “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” on Friday night, a national rodeo movement in support of breast cancer awareness; and “School Spirit” on Saturday night, an opportunity for young and old to support Baldwin County schools by wearing their team colors. Tickets are $12 for adults, $6 for children ages 4 – 12, and free for children 3 and under. Advance tickets available online at www.jennifermoorefoundation.com until July 27 are $10 for adults and $6 for children. Tickets may also be purchased at Summerdale Western Store on Highway 59 in Summerdale, Frances Holk-Jones State Farm Insurance at 315 E. Laurel Avenue in Foley, and at the gate.
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Family Fun at St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church
The Family Fun Group (F 2) of St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church recently held a “Cinco de Mayo Fiesta” on its campus in Foley. Church members gathered for a night of fellowship, games, and a potluck dinner featuring a nacho bar. The F 2 group consists of Spanish and English speaking families building multi-cultural relationships while enjoying fun filled, family friendly activities. St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church is located at 601 West Laurel Avenue in Foley. For more information regarding the Church please visit its website at www.saintmargaretofscotland.net or call the Parish office at 251.943.4009. “Piñata” participants at the Cinco de Mayo Fiesta pictured: Front Row – Sherlyn Saldaña, Jennifer Simòn, Jonathan Simòn, Emma Steffek, John Michael Schumacher, Lachlan Steffek, and Alicia Esparza / Middle Row – Axel Arana, Lictzely Barragàn, Cynthia Simòn, Mason Finch, Michael McInroy, Ian Goecke, Sarah Finch, and Anna Goecke/ Back Row – Father Paul Zoghby, Alexis McInroy, Anthony Finch, and John Schumacher.
Survey for Orange Beach Public Library Five Year Plan
The Orange Beach Public Library is asking local citizens to share their opinion on current library services offered at the Library through a survey. The opinions will help to shape the future of our library. Patrons can take the online survey at any computer with Internet access, and it will be available until Tuesday, July 31. To access the survey, visit the Orange Beach Public Library website at www.orangebeachlibrary.org, click on “Take the Survey” and follow the directions. Paper copies of the survey are available at the circulation desk in the library or contact the library at 251-981-2923 to have a copy mailed to you. The Orange Beach Public Library is open Monday, Tuesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. The computer lab closes 15 minutes before closing time. For more information contact the library at 251-981-2923.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
bits & pieces Art Center Awarded Grant For “Squeaky Sneakers”
The Eastern Shore Art Center was awarded a $2500 grant from the Alabama License Tag Advisory Committee for “Squeaky Sneakers 2012”. The program is an art/science day camp presented by ESAC’s Outreach Coordinator, Nancy Raia, and the Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Attendees are children ages 7 to 13 from Baldwin County youth organizations. The program is called “Squeaky Sneakers” because the participants’ sneakers get wet and then squeak as they walk through the Weeks Bay Reserve. Campers explore local estuaries and develop personal connections to art through nature and become better stewards of their coastal environment. Last week’s campers were 15 students from the Foley Snook Center Youth Club. They collected marine samples during boat trips and seine netting along Weeks Bay. Various drawings and 3-D sculptures were created to represent all the creatures they observed including horseshoe crabs, egg pods, stingrays and flounder. When the samples were returned to the water, one student commented, “We throw them back in the water because they need to live just like we do.” Also included were explorations of wildlife trails pointing out all the native trees, birds and fauna. After hearing all the different birdcalls along the trails, the students wrote about their experiences. Learning birdcalls is a great way to identify birds hidden by dense foliage, some thought the birds sounded like whistles, ping-pong, and pipes leaking. Angela Underwood and Eric Brunden, both educators at the Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, provided scientific information on the estuaries and the role Weeks Bay Reserve provides in preserving the fragile habitat. Two interns assisted ESAC during the Squeaky Sneakers Program. Pictured left: Emma Hunter, senior at Fairhope High School who is completing her IB service hours with the program. Right: Caitlin Murphy, recent graduate of Springhill College.
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Dance Recital Brings Funds to The Haven
The Haven went to the Jungle recently as Triple Threat Dance Studio held a fundraising recital for the no-kill shelter. Nearly 100 people gathered at the Foley Civic Center to watch approximately 20 dancers perform their first recital since opening last August. The Civic Center stage was decorated in a jungle motif and, on the audience’s circular tables, were photos of available Haven cats and dogs. Two long tables at the entrance held the silent auction items and the yummy refreshments provided by the dance studio and Specialty Bakery. “The dancers did a marvelous job putting on their performances and we were also able to raise nearly $500 for The Haven,” says Andrea Dickey, Studio Manger and instructor. The Haven’s executive director, Mike Graham, said, “The money generated from the recital will enable the Haven to continue its work of helping the abused, abandoned and neglected animals of Baldwin County as well as ensuring that no healthy, adoptable animal will be put down solely because of lack of space.” Dancers gather after the performance. Standing, (from left), Michael Graham (Haven’s Executive Director), Elizabeth Rollings, Aerial Flanigan, Spencer Lundgren, Nick Stanton (Hip Hop Instructor), Danielle Logan, Mary Grace Reeves, Sarah Carl, Jessica Mattes, Maia Pouye, Dyana Lee-Daniels, Aubrey Warren (Ballroom Instructor), Andrea Dickey (Studio Manager). Bottom Row (from left), Jane Young, Leanna Bolton, Ralee Stewart, Cappie Priola, Gabbie Lisboa, Ellie D’Orazio, Brooklyn Jackson.
Family Promise of Coastal Alabama is Celebrating!
Family Promise of Coastal Alabama is excited to celebrate our 9th Anniversary this July. We are the only organization in Mobile County that provides homeless shelter services for entire families. The Mobile County Public School System identified over 5000 children as homeless this year. Family Promise of Coastal Alabama helps families learn job stability skills, how to budget, parenting skills and assistance with getting the necessary education to ensure they remain employable. Upcoming Events: August 26, Battle of the Choirs - come hear our local choirs battle it out to end family homelessness. Serving You! - Go out to eat at one of our hand-selected restaurants where local celebrities will serve you! Taking place during the entire month of September 2012. For more information on how you, your school or group can help, please contact Family Promise of Coastal Alabama at: www.familypromisemobile.org or call (251) 441.1991.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
bits & pieces BP and CBEE Partner to Open Sea, Sand and Stars Center to the Public
Thanks to a $25,000 grant from BP, one of the area’s best kept secrets will be open to the public for the first time this summer. The Sea, Sand and Stars Interactive Learning Center at Orange Beach Elementary School will open its doors to the general public July 16 through 20 as part of the facility’s Gulf Coast Adventure week. The Sea Sand and Stars complex sees more than 4,000 visitors per year, but has been open only to school groups thus far. BP has granted the facility $25,000 to open it to the public July 16 through 20 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Admission is free, but children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The facility features a beautiful 5,800 gallon saltwater aquarium with a large variety of local fish, including redfish, speckled trout and cobia. It also features “touch tanks” in which visitors can touch and/or hold certain marine animals such as flounder and hermit crabs. Additionally, the facility has a 38-seat planetarium with projector that employs technology used in the best planetariums across the world. The facility is equipped to tap into the Hubble Space Telescope and allows visitors a real-time look through this amazing window into space. Outside, an 800 foot. boardwalk leads to four large outdoor gazebo classrooms where students learn about birds, plants, amphibians and insects. In partnership with WKRG television, a weather station, complete with measuring and monitoring technology, allows students to learn meteorology and then report the weather on a real television news set. To find out more about Sea, Sand and Stars and the complete schedule for Gulf Coast Adventure week call 251-981-5690 or go to www.orangebeachelementary.com and click on Sea, Sand and Stars. Sea Sand and Stars Interactive Learning Center Director Lisa Allen, at right holding stick, explains the habitat of some of the animals housed in the facility’s “touch tanks” to representatives of Baldwin County Public Schools, BP, Gulf Coast Recovery Organization and the Coastal Baldwin Educational Enrichment Foundation.
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Spring Market in the Park and Kids Art Activities
Enjoy live music while you stroll the Museum grounds this summer where vendors will be on hand selling flowers, produce and other locally made goods at this open air market. Pick up market favorites such as wine, honey, fresh seafood, organic soap and a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables. Stop by the children’s activity center and let the little ones paint en plein air or try one of the make and take art projects. Enjoy live music, children’s’ activities and free admission to the Museum during the Market. This event takes place every Thursday through July 26th from 3-6 p.m. at 4850 Museum Drive. Please visit www.mobilemuseumofart.com for more information. Kids Art Activities: July 5 - En Plein Air/Crayon Resist; July 12 - Masters of Graphic Art: Comics! – Get inspired by the work of a Graphic Master, animator Ralph Bakshi. Let’s see what comic masterpieces you come up with; July 19 - Glass Art (No Glass) – Use this technique to make glass art like Dale Chihuly or Carole Perry in a few easy steps; July 26 - Pavement Patterns – Color, line, form, unity, movement…The principles and elements of art can be used in any combination, at any time, anywhere.
Artist ‘Pleasantly Surprised’ at Being Chosen Shrimp Festival Poster Winner
The 41st Annual National Shrimp Festival presented by Zatarain’s is only four months away, and members of the festival committee have chosen Keith White as the winner of this year’s poster contest. “The design features three shrimp on the back deck of a shrimp boat,” Alabama Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce Special Events Director Ann Motes said. “One of the shrimp is playing a guitar, another is cooking over a gumbo pot and the third is painting a picture. All three shrimp represent different, but equally important, aspects of our festival – music, food and art.” White, from Shallotte, N.C. is an experienced graphic artist and serves as staff artist at The Brunswick Beacon newspaper in his home state. He serves as the newspaper’s graphic artist in the advertising department and as the Beacon's editorial cartoonist. White’s posters will be on sale online and at the Chamber’s offices in Gulf Shores beginning Aug. 1. There will also be limited supply of artist signed-andnumbered prints available at the festival. This year’s Shrimp Festival will take place in Gulf Shores Oct. 11 through 14. For more information, see the festival website at www.nationalshrimpfestival.com.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
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Fairhope’s Fourth of July Festival and Fireworks Display
The City of Fairhope will host its annual Fourth of July Festival and Fireworks display, again this year, in Henry George Park and the Fairhope Municipal Pier. The Baldwin Pops Band Independence Day Concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. in Henry George Park. A variety of patriotic music will be played before and during the fireworks display. The Fairhope fireworks display will begin at approximately 9 p.m. The north end of Fairhope Municipal Park will be open throughout the day and will remain open until no parking is available. The south end of the beach front park and Knoll Park will be available to spectators. Handicap parking will be available near the fountain but will be limited. Those who wish to park in the handicap area should arrive early and plan to stay until the fireworks are over. WABF 1220 AM will be broadcasting the Baldwin Pops concert live for those who are not able to make it down for the concert. Also, those who sit on the bay front bluffs for the fireworks should bring their battery powered radio and tune it to WABF 1220 AM for better sound. For more information on Fairhope’s Fourth of July Festival and Fireworks display call 929-1466.
The 18th Annual Sale-A-Thon Sales Promotion to benefit the Child Advocacy Center will be held July 3rd through July 24th. Keith Palmer, Vice President of the CAC Board of Directors, is pleased to announce that this event will include the fast growing Palmer’s Airport Hyundai, as well as the Palmer’s Toyota Superstore and Scion. $100 will be donated to the CAC for each new or used car sold at Palmer’s dealerships during this time. This is a great opportunity for those planning to purchase a car to help of you to help the Child Advocacy Center to raise much needed funds.
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Golf Tournament Seeking Sponsors
The seventh annual golf tournament to benefit Mary's Shelter Gulf Coast is set for August 17 at Craft Farms in Gulf Shores. Committee members are currently seeking sponsors for this year's event. Businesses or individuals may participate in sponsoring the event. The levels of sponsorship include Gold, $2,500; Silver, $1,250; Bronze, $600; and Hole, $150. The deadline to submit an application for sponsorship is Monday, July 2. For more information about becoming a sponsor and to receive a form, contact Ginny Gilbert at ginblaz1@aol.com. A nondenominational facility, Mary's Shelter Gulf Coast accommodates homeless pregnant women of Mobile, Baldwin and Escambia counties in Alabama, as well as Escambia and Santa Rosa counties in Florida. In addition to providing a safe atmosphere for pregnant women while they await the birth of their child, counseling and programs include parenting, childcare, housekeeping, money management, career planning and job training are available. Mary's Shelter Gulf Coast is a nonprofit organization and all donations are tax deductible.
Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam® Returning to Mobile Civic Center
Feld Motor Sports announced today the world’s most popular and spectacular monster truck series returns to the Mobile Civic Center, July 20-21, at 7:30 p.m., bigger and better than ever! Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam®, as seen on Speed Channel, will feature a widely popular monster truck lineup this year including the return of world champions Grave Digger and El Toro Loco, Advance Auto Parts Grinder, Monster Mutt Dalmatian, King Krunch and El Matador. Tickets are also available now at the Mobile Civic Center Box Office and all Ticketmaster outlets. Approximately 12 feet tall and about 12 feet wide, monster trucks are custom-designed machines that sit atop 66-inch-tall tires and weigh a minimum of 10,000 pounds. Built for short, highpowered bursts of speed, monster trucks generate 1,500 to 2,000 horsepower and are capable of speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. Monster trucks can fly up to 125 to 130 feet and up to 35 feet in the air. The Party in the Pits on Saturday, July 21 from 5:00-6:30 p.m. gives fans the opportunity to get a view of the trucks up close and meet the drivers of the massive monster trucks. Pit passes are available for free at local Southern Ford Dealerships or they can be purchased through the box office. A Saturday, July 21 event ticket is required, along with pit party pass for entrance.
NOW Auditioning For: • Baldwin County Youth Orchestra • Beginning Band • Beginning Strings Class • Intermediate Strings Class • Baldwin Wind Ensemble • Baldwin Jazz Band • Community Adult Strings Orchestra For more information on the ensembles, auditions, sponsors or events visit BaldwinCountyYouthOrchestra.com or by email: baldwincountyyouthorchestra@gmail.com The Baldwin County Youth Orchestra is a non-profit 501c3 organization committed to educate, promote and enrich the community by building relationships through musical awareness, performance and tutelage.
251-979-6834 Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Kids Heal h
Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
Skin Infections in Children
Hey guys! School is now out and you have lots of summer plans coming up. Today I want to talk about a common misconception about your child’s health. Almost every day, I see a patient who claims they have a spider bite. Luckily, spider bites are exceedingly rare. The most common explanation of a swollen, red area that’s tender on the skin is a skin infection. One of the more frequent culprits is a bacteria named Staphylococcus aureus, often referred to simply as “staph,” that is carried on the skin and in the nose of healthy people. It’s estimated that between 30-60% of all people have “staph” on their skin. But the real problem is the emergence of a “staph” bacteria that is resistant to penicillin based antibiotics, called MRSA. Current studies show that somewhere between 10-50% of all people have this MRSA on their skin and in their nose and this is scary business. It’s important to differentiate between hospital acquired MRSA and community acquired MRSA (or CAMRSA). The hospital acquired type is very aggressive and occurs in people recently hospitalized, in nursing homes, and/or healthcare workers. The CAMRSA can occur in anyone! The CAMRSA can be very aggressive as well, but mainly causes skin infections that may look like a pimple or boil and can be red, swollen, painful, or have pus
or other drainage. The most common ways of spreading CA-MRSA occurs in people that have close contact with someone who has a history of boils or abscesses and amongst athletes who share equipment. Those with a weakened immune system are at a greater risk of having invasive disease as well. I have only seen one actual spider bite in my pediatric career; however, I have seen thousands of MRSA infections! We now routinely see 5-10 cases per week and sometimes 4-6 cases per day during the spring and summer! Let’s talk about some ways to protect your child and family. You can protect yourself from infections by practicing good hygiene (i.e., keeping your hands clean by washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand rub and showering after working out); covering any open skin area such as abrasions or cuts with a clean dry bandage; avoiding sharing personal items such as towels or razors; using a barrier (e.g., clothing or a towel) between your skin and shared workout equipment; and wiping surfaces of equipment before and after use (e.g., in the locker room and weight room at school). While lots of schools and businesses have closed to “clean them up,” as soon as the kids come back with the bacteria on their skin or in their nose, the risk of spread returns.
So what can you do? Definitely see your healthcare provider for any red, swollen bug bites or scratches to be evaluated for infection. While rare, MRSA has been known to cause very serious infections in otherwise healthy kids, including blood infections and pneumonia. And yes, they can be treated with non-penicillin-based antibiotics and creams, although most need to be drained and cultured to see what antibiotics will work best for your child. And yes, it can re-occur. There is no way to eradicate the MRSA bacteria once you have it, but common sense and good hygiene can go a long way. MRSA is here to stay in our area! So be very vigilant with your child in terms of bug bites and scratches and seek medical care if worried. Is it a spider bite? Most likely not, but your doctor can help you decide! Robert L. Rux, M.D. is a Board Certified Pediatrician at Magnolia Springs Pediatrics. Originally from Mobile, he attended medical school at The University of Alabama School of Medicine (UAB) and completed residency at The Children’s Hospital of Alabama (UAB). He is married to Jaime and has three children, Adler, Walker and Mary McAtee.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
F A Legacy of Learning at Bayside Academy
Among the 73 new members of the Bayside Academy Alumni Association are three very special members. Emily Nelson, Blake Nelson and Christine Chason are Legacy graduates; their parents are Bayside graduates themselves. Emily’s mother Susan Jurkieweicz Nelson graduated from Bayside in 1981. In addition to Emily’s two aunts and two uncles who are also Bayside graduates, her brother Andrew is a current freshman. Blake Nelson’s mother Jennifer Pohsl Nelson is a member of the Bayside class of 1977, his uncle a 1975 graduate and his brother Kevin a member of the class of 2010. Christine Chason now joins her father John Chason, class of 1981 and her sister Katelyn, class of 2010, as a Bayside alum. Pictured: front row (l-r): Emily Nelson, Blake Nelson and Christine Chason; back row (l-r) Mrs. Susan Jurkieweicz Nelson, Mrs. Jennifer Pohsl Nelson and Mr. John Chason.
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Daphne East Students Enter Art Contest
Daphne East Elementary students received a certificate for their artwork which was entered in the VSA arts contest. Front Row: Anthony Wells, Ricky Carroll, Emily McGirl, Sean Ordoyne, Ben Sturgis. Back Row: Taylor Dobert Isaiah Featherstone, Tyler Newman, Jeremiah Curry, Sam Olmstead, and Patrick Hough. Emily McGirl, a third grade student in Mrs. Seibert's class, won best of show. Emily received a ribbon along with art supplies. Not pictured: Thomas Belina, Brody Weekly, Caleb Lambert, Tenecia Sledge, and Alex Bechtel.
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W.J. Carroll Recognizes Students with Perfect Attendance
W. J. Carroll Intermediate School congratulates their students who had perfect attendance this year. In no particular order are Kara Agee, Charles Avritt, Christopher Boyd, Lewis Bruce, Morgan Casey, Harrison Charlton, Macy Crigler, Zoee Dewberry, Sam Dukes, Jaylon George, Allen Le, Ray Mallisham, Thomas Manning, Christian Mason, Cameron Mitchell, Roberto Radu Urrutia, Dayana Rivera, Leland Scott, Makenzie Shahid, Jack Sprinkle, Haotian Turner, Tieraney White, Keldrick Williams, Nicole Willis, and Holly Yazdi. Kathy Morse also had perfect attendance but was not in the picture.
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Daphne Middle School Announces Principal's Award Recipients
Daphne Middle School awards its top honors, the Principal’s Award, to two students for having the highest grade point average in the 8th grade class. Pictured from left to right are: Hannah Currie, Principal Tripp Oliphant, and Allen Yazdi. Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
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FMS Welcomes Visitors for Guided Tour of Campus
Mrs. Angie Hall, principal of Fairhope Middle School, welcomed visitors to FMS during the Baldwin County school system’s See for Yourself Day. Parents and members of the community were encouraged to visit the school and participate in a guided tour of the campus. Pictured with Mrs. Hall are Kim Noblitt and her daughter, Anna Claire Noblitt.
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CKCS Eighth Graders Receive Christian Athlete Awards
Christ the King Catholic School eighth graders Elizabeth Morel and Alan Williams received the Christian Athlete Awards for 2011-2012. The annual awards are given to two eighth graders, one male and one female, who set a positive example of sportsmanship and Christian conduct both on and off the athletic fields during the year. The CTK Booster Club sponsors the award, which was presented at the awards ceremony after the school mass on Friday, May 25.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
6 Daphne East Students Work Hard for AR Points
During the 2011-2012 school year, first grade students at Daphne East Elementary School worked very hard to learn how to successfully take Accelerated Reading (AR) tests. In addition to working on their reading fluency, students also strengthened their comprehension skills in order to test. The students pictured were able to read books, take tests, and earn at least 25 points during the school year. Students are pictured in their AR 25 Point Club T-Shirts! Back, L to R: Stella Pope Norris, Ashlyn Bell, Kiley Minshew, Preslie Knox, Ariel Jones, Alex Cobb, Westley Dixon, Matthew Hedge, Callie Knox. Middle, L to R: George Larker, Jaydon Allen, Lauren Markert, Kamden Eady, Anna Camille Gervais, Lily Rogers, Gage Anderson. Front, L to R: Ashley Atkins, Maddy Moore, Audrey Fanning, Haylee Speller, Eli Blair, Madison Johnson, Sawyer Guarisco. Not pictured: Mariah Mack.
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Newton School Students Place in National Career Development Contest
This year, Newton School students celebrated National Career Development Month by participating in the 42st Annual National Career Development Poster and Poetry Contest. The theme this year was “My Career Dreams”, and we are pleased to announce that two J. Larry Newton School students won on the national level. Emma Warner (left) won 2nd place in the Poetry Contest (Grades 3-5), and Sofia Gambino (right) won 1st place in the poster contest (Grades 3-5). Both girls were invited to attend the National Career Development Association Conference in Atlanta in June 2012 and received a gift card. You may view this year’s winners of the NCDA Poetry and Poster Contest on www.ncda.org.
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Registration for Fall Now Open
6th Grader Receives W. J. Carroll Award
At W. J. Carroll Intermediate School’s recent 6th grade graduation, Miss Abby Parker received the W. J. Carroll Award. Abby exemplifies the positive character traits the school promotes while striving for high academics. Each year, Abby and her family organize fundraisers and donate their time and effort towards a needy community in Mexico. Pictured with Abby is Mrs. Dana Bottoms, school principal.
Annual Registration Fee $100
Registering now for the 2012/2013 school year! Now offering extended day! Before care 7:30-9 am and Aftercare 1:15- 4:30 pm
Mom’s Day Out (for 1, 2 and 3 yrs) Class times are 9:00–1:00 5 Day Program (Mon-Fri) 3 Day Program (M, W, Fri) 2 Day Program (Tues, Thurs)
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(4 year olds) 5 Day Program (Monday-Friday) Class Times are 9:00–1:00 All Pre-K classes are taught by a licensed teacher and use the A Beka curriculum For more information please contact Angela M. Meadows-MDOP Director at
CKCS Art Class Gets Visit from Local Artist
Christ the King Catholic School kindergarten student, Paige Evans, poses with local Fairhope artist Ricky Trione and his wife, Bonnie, during a recent visit to the school. During kindergarten, first and second grade art classes, Mr. Trione related his experiences of painting as a blind person. He demonstrated his craft for the students and afterwards they created their own painting of a dolphin.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
CKCS Grad Visits Fifth Grade
Christ the King Catholic School fifth graders in Mrs. Wilson's class raise their hand to answer a question from their special guest and former CKCS student, Mr. Nick Napolitano, on Tuesday, May 29. The class has been corresponding with Mr. Nick via letters and Skype this year while he was attending St. John Vianney Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. Mr. Nick is home for the summer and came to CKCS to visit with the class. He taught the religion lesson Mrs. Wilson had planned for the day.
Top Readers at W. J. Carroll Earn Breakfast at Local Café
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The top three readers in each grade at W. J. Carroll Intermediate were honored for their accomplishment by a visit to Eats Shore Café for breakfast. In no particular order are Brandon Hawkins, Reilly Allen, Ansley Salmon, Rose Hunter, Harrison Charlton, Brendan Kennedy, Matthew Ladnier, Carianne Brown, and Lily Mozer. With the students are Mrs. Dana Bottoms, school principal, and Mrs. Michelle Henderson, fifth grade teacher and reading program sponsor.
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We start with a chemical-free treatment of the mosquito habitat around your home Then, we apply a light mist of a very mild insecticide, formulated to repel mosquitoes for the next three weeks. Our barrier spray formula is so specialized that beneficial insects such as honey bees, ladybugs, and butterflies will return and be totally unaffected. The formula we apply in your yard is a milder concentration of the active ingredient used in Lice shampoo prescribed by doctors and in flea and tick shampoos most often recommended by veterinarians for use on pets.
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McGill-Toolen’s SGA Officers for 2012-2013
McGill-Toolen Catholic High School congratulates their newly elected Student Government Association Officers for the 2012-2013 school year. SGA President: Elisabeth Glaser, Senior Class: President: Jordan Doucet, VP: Jack Cape, Secretary/Treasurer.: Hannah Brooks, Junior Class: President: Ben Waddell, Vice President: Herlandez Corley, Secretary / Treasurer: Emily Bourdon, Sophomore Class: President: Blaize Naman, Vice President: John Murray McLaughlin, Secretary/Treasurer: Tres Muscat. Pictured are front row left to right: Emily Bourdon, Elizabeth Glaser, Jordan Doucet, Hannah Brooks, and Tres Muscat. Back row left to right: Herlandez Corley, Ben Waddell, Jack Cape, Blaize Naman and John Murray McLaughlin.
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Fairhope Intermediate School Receives Donation to Support School Garden
Recently, Fairhope Intermediate School received a $500 check from the Fairhope Local Food Initiative. The check was in support of the Pirate Patch, the school garden. In addition to the money, FLFI members will provide advice and assistance in constructing raised beds in August. Pictured are: Mallory Westry, Tamiah Coleman, Linda Smith (lead teacher for the Pirate Patch), Mr. Kevin Shaw (FLFI president), Caroline Davis, Marilyn Mannhard (FLFI member) Ben Brunson, Braxton Jordan, Jacob Donoian and Anna Lisa Wiggins. All students pictured are members of the Pirate Patch gardeners fourth and sixth grade.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
The Navigators Homeschool Crew Sets Sail this Fall
It’s “anchors aweigh” for the newest homeschool cooperative in Baldwin County. Launched by two homeschooling moms, Kasie Person and Kelly Burcham, The Navigators are seeking crew members to come aboard for a voyage that promises all of the adventures, challenges, and joys inherited in educating our children at home. We recognize that because homeschooling is a daunting and, at times, overwhelming task, families often need a place for support, resources, and encouragement. To that end, we are offering once-a-week elective classes for elementary and preschool children, taught by the parents who are a part of this cooperative. Classes will be held at the Daphne Recreational Complex every Friday, beginning in September. The Navigators won’t stop with purely academic pursuits, however. Throughout the course of the year, we will be celebrating holidays, taking field trips, and participating in service projects together, with the intent of laying a foundation for life-long friendships. If your family is homeschooling, or perhaps is considering this means of educating your children, The Navigators would love to support and encourage you in this process. Enrollment for our fall classes is currently underway and will continue through the end of July. We also offer a strictly social membership, which has no enrollment deadlines. Should you desire more information, or if your family would like to join The Navigators Homeschooling Crew, please contact Kelly Burcham at (251) 378-1350 or email kelly.burcham@yahoo.com.
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McGill-Toolen Cheerleaders Cheer on St. Jude Runners
The McGill-Toolen JV Cheerleaders coached by Camille Johnston and Laura Clarke volunteered their time to help cheer the St. Jude Mobile to Memphis runners at Battleship Park May 19. This was the third annual run with nearly three dozen runners. The relay run raises money for south Alabama's children being treated by St. Jude's Research Hospital in Memphis, TN. The runners begin in Memphis and end at Battleship Park. Over four days, a 391 mile journey, each runner logs about 40 miles. JV Cheerleaders: Back row: Left to right. Claire Cain, Anna Bishop, Kathryn Burns, Haley Miller, Hope Aguirre, Claire Baker, Kaitlin Easley and Coach Camille Johnston. Front row: Left to right. Lauren Johnson, Megan Schilling, Hannah Hastings, Brianne Garrett, Ashley Taitano, Carrin Matson, Lauren Egan.
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W.J. Carroll Students Use Mac Technology Daily
W. J. Carroll Intermediate School fourth grade students in Mrs. Kathleen Carraway’s class have enjoyed working with the school’s new iPad station that currently holds 17 iPads. Along with the classroom Macbooks, each student is easily connected to the Internet for daily technology integration. Clockwise, from top, Gavin Morvant, Jon Davis, and Regan Johnson work on an Alabama History webquest.
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Fairhope Intermediate School Students In Touch with Wildlife
Recently, fourth graders at Fairhope Intermediate School had the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of our local wildlife – a King snake, an alligator and a raccoon. Mr. JJ McCool with Wildlife Solutions shared his knowledge of each species and wowed the students with his snake handling. In addition to the live specimens, Mr. McCool brought the skin of a bobcat, a wild hog skull and a deer skull with antlers. The teachers and students wish to thank JJ and daughter Camille, a 4thgrader at the school, for bringing the wildlife to Fairhope Intermediate School. Pictured is Mr. McCool with King Snake.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
FEEF Names Parents’ Choice Winners
Keeping a secret in the day and age of social and digital media is no easy task. But when it came to naming Parents’ Choice Award winners, school principals, Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation volunteers and employees, and Urgent Care by the Bay physicians managed to carefully guard the winners’ names. During end of the year assemblies, FEEF along with award sponsor Urgent Care by the Bay, named six winners based on the strength of parents’ written nominating statements. The winners are: Brandi Corbett, Fairhope Elementary School; Brittany Curry, Fairhope Intermediate School; Terri Frank, J. Larry Newton School; Shawn Johnson, Fairhope Middle School; Jamie Forsythe, Fairhope High School; and Lisa Simmons, support staff, Fairhope High School. Winners received a $100 check, a ticket to FEEF’s signature fundraiser Phantasy of the Arts, and his or her name engraved on a school plaque. FEEF asked parents to nominate teachers based on the nominee’s ethics and integrity, communication skills with parents and students, and the ability to inspire learning and creative thinking. Top photo: Fairhope Elementary teacher Brandi Corbett accepts her award from (left to right) FEEF president Donna Wegener, Urgent Care by the Bay’s Dr. Chad VanDerHeyden, Corbett, FEEF board member Robin Coleman, FES assistant principal Ann Agerton and FES principal Terry Beasley. Bottom photo: Fairhope Intermediate School fifth grade teacher Brittany Curry receives her award from (left to right) FEEF president Donna Wegener, Urgent Care by the Bay’s Dr. J.C. Jacobs, Curry and FEEF executive Director Cori Yonge.
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Dr. Adam J. Handwerger, AOC’s newest Pediatric Orthopaedic Specialist, will begin seeing patients starting August 2012.
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Top left photo: Art teacher Shawn Johnson is Fairhope Middle School’s winner. Presenting left to right are: FEEF board member Hill Robinson, Johnson, Urgent Care by the Bay’s Dr. J.C. Jacobs and FEEF board member Judge Jody Bishop. Bottom left photo: On hand for the J. Larry Newton presentation were (left to right), Dr. J. C. Jacobs, award recipient first grade teacher Terri Frank and FEEF board member Gary Finch. Top right photo: FEEF board member Gina Walcott and Urgent Care by the Bay physician Al Babcock, MD present Fairhope High School English teacher Jamie Forsythe with her Parents’ choice award. Bottom right photo: Lisa Simmons, Fairhope High School nurse for special needs students, accepts her award from Dr. Al Babcock and FEEF board member Dee Fuhrman.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Eastern Shore Homeschoolers Visit Sea, Sand, and Stars
During a recent field trip to Sea, Sand, and Stars at Orange Beach Elementary, Eastern Shore homeschoolers Jonathan McCammon, Lula Jane George, Laurel Burcham and Kathryn McCammon (left photo) enjoyed a quick snack before heading back in to learn more about sea creatures and constellations. Kathryn McCammon gets up close and personal with sea life while holding a sea star (middle photo). Lula Jane George eagerly waits for a sea creature to come her way (right photo).
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Scan here for July Registration Discount Code
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1. DANCE STUDIOS - Our 3 studios have "floating" professional dance floors to reduce fatigue and prevent injuries. 2. CUSTOMER SERVICE - Desk staff is available during class times to provide assistance. 3. HASSLE-FREE RECITALS - Families get 2 free tickets, we sew and alter costumes for you. All students receive a free trophy. 4. LIMITED CLASS SIZES - We give special attention to all of our students.
Reasons to Choose our Dance Program
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REGISTRATION NOW BEING ACCEPTED
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Competing and Performing Company
Convenient Class Times to Fit Your Busy Schedule
Preschool Morning and Evening Classes
All Staff is CPR Certified
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Area Schools Receive Proceeds from Yogurt Sales
This past school year Moo Che Che Frozen Yogurt held 22 Spirit Nights with our local schools. On the designated nights a portion of the proceeds from that night’s sales was donated to the school. Thanks to everyone for supporting your schools and Moo Che Che. Here is the final tally for each school that participated: Spanish Fort Elementary: $797.93 Rockwell Elementary: $684.79 Daphne East Elementary: $600.11 Daphne North Elementary: $379.52 Spanish Fort Middle School: $366.18 Daphne High School: $140.62 Ashley Balius, owner of Moo Che Che would like to thank all the families and schools for their support and look forward to next school year to raise even more money for area schools. Pictured are Eric Smith Principal, Spanish Fort Elementary School and Ashley Balius, Owner of Moo Che Che.
W.J. Carroll Olympic Field Day Theme a Success
Field Day was an enormous success at W. J. Carroll Intermediate School. With the theme of Olympics, each class chose a country to represent for opening ceremonies which took place the day before and then again during the actual field day events. Fourth graders from Mrs. Linda Kay Loper’s room were captured in the foot races. From left are Rose Hunter, McKenzie Hunn, and Chloe Theriot.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Eastern Shore Homeschoolers Take Overnight Field Trip
During the 2011-2012 school year, Eastern Shore homeschoolers went on an overnight field trip to Clarke County. While there, the students learned about life in the country, tracked animal prints, went fishing to catch their own dinner, and made lots of crafts! Pictured are (starting at the top clockwise): Aaron Burcham, Lula Jane George, Kathryn McCammon, Laurel Burcham, Edward George, and Jonathan McCammon.
Fire Emergency Educator Talks to W.J. Carroll Students
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Mr. Kent Landsberg, the Life and Fire safety educator for the Mobile Fire rescue Department, was one of many professionals who were at W. J. Carroll Intermediate School for Career Day. Mr. Landsberg teaches citizens about what they need to do when they encounter a fire emergency at home through the use of puppets, DVDs, and even a live bird named Precious to make the presentations interesting. From left, Gage Coons, Cameron Connell, Tyler Smith, Christopher Small, and in the back, T. J. Skeen from Mrs. Debbie Greer’s sixth grade class listen to Mr. Landsberg.
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Students Receive Vocal Training in Week-long Workshop
Students of vocal coach Marjorie Searcy recently participated in a Summer Voice Intensive workshop. The week long workshop focused on high powered vocal training and stage presence. Each student picked a piece of music and performed for their peers each night and received advice on their performance. The workshop ended with a wonderful performance where each student performed their piece for an audience of friends and family. Pictured, Olivia Williams, Will Glisson, Brantly Rhodes, Kaylee Clonninger, Rebecca Schnider, Nick smith, Mary Bradley Knighton, Lily Kate Gwin.
Montessori Students Hold International Festival
Learning Addition at Montessori School
Christian Bui (left) and Calvin Schneider are working on the addition strip board. Both are students in the Early Elementary Classroom at Weinacker's Montessori School. They are learning their addition tables by working hands-on to figure the sums. Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com
The Early Elementary Education Classrooms at Weinaker's Montessori recently held an International Festival. These children represented Egypt. Calvin Schneider, age 5; Hedayah Mahir, age 8; Aurielle Oyen, age 5; Wisdom Williams, age 6. In this photo they are singing a song about Egypt. The children studied many countries throughout the year before settling on Egypt. In preparation, they listened to cd's, read books and studied about their culture. With the exception of Hedayah, the students spent a day in class making their own costumes with the help of Calvin's mom, Nikki Schneider. 35
Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Travel Games and Gear for Kids
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
The excitement and high-level anticipation that kids experience before a big trip can take a serious nose-dive when they encounter the realities of being “underway”. The monotony that can set in during long drives, flight layovers and hotel room down time can be a vacation killer for little ones. Planning ahead to bring gear and games that accommodate a child’s travel experience can turn the trials of travel into the trip of a lifetime. Check out the following stuff that keeps kids on the move and in the travel groove en route!
by Paige Gardner Smith
Travel Buddies Luggage Set
Kids Travel: A Backseat Survival Guide
Packing up is half the fun of getting ready for a trip. Finding fun luggage to transport a child’s worldly goods will amp up the excitement and encourage them to take responsibility for their own stuff while wheeling through airports, parking lots and hotel hallways. Travel Buddies luggage set includes both a roomie hard-shell wheelie suitcase with dual-height retractable handle AND a matching backpack for the things that need to be easily accessible. With bright and enchanting graphics featuring penguins, ladybugs and aliens, this tough little luggage set is a guaranteed attention-getter as kids pull their own travel weight in style.
About thirty minutes into a long trip, kids are quick to ask the question, “Are we there yet?” And so the backseat boredom begins. Keeping young ones entertained during a long drive or flight is easy (and educational) with ‘Kids Travel: A Backseat Survival Guide’ from Klutz. Filled with games and activities (plus everything needed for each activity), kids can take travel-related challenges that use the passing world around them, or enjoy the 100-page game pad that will keep them entertained when the window views are less enchanting. Parents can get in on the games, too – but be warned: Collecting state license plates can be addictive and younger kids play a seriously cut-throat game of Punchbuggie.
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Seat Belt Snoozer Car Pillow
Kids Wired Headphones (Kidz Gear)
For kids who can use a bit of dedicated listening (and sparing parents who really cannot listen to the Kidz Bop CD for the 10,000th time), Kidz Gear headphones are the perfect fit for little heads and delicate ears. Easily plugged into music and video players, MP3 systems, game consoles and more – kids can enjoy music, sound effects, and all kinds of audio independently and safely. Featuring a built-in volume control so parents can set the upper end of decibels delivered, kids can still adjust the sound within the set range. The adjustable head-set accommodates a broad size range of heads from toddler to pre-teen. Light weight and sturdy, the Kidz Gear headphones are a must-have accessory for happy, easy listening.
(One Step Ahead)
Sometimes the best way for kids to weather travel time is to take a good snooze in the back seat. But for parents who have seen the cramped, crumpled results of a child trying to catch forty winks without proper support, the Seat Belt Snoozer can save kids from the stiff neck and grumpy after-effects of a fitful and failed car nap. Designed for the booster-seat age child, the Snoozer curves gently across the shoulder, anchored by the seatbelt to catch lolling heads and provide a soft cushioned resting spot for tired, traveling noggins. With a removable, machine washable chenille cover, the Snoozer car pillow will support sweeter dreams and gentle tempers on the road to adventure.
Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Bust a Mood
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3 Strategies to Calm Beastly Moods by Michele Ranard, M.Ed. ”Nothing helps a bad mood like spreading it around.” --Bill Watterson We all have moods. In childhood, there are those unicorn, rainbow, cotton candy, smiley ones, and there are the beastly ones. Meltdown mahem at Macy’s. Bedtime blow-ups. Tantrums over tuna. Adolescents are also famous for occasionally getting their panties in a bunch...ahem. Behind every spirited child in distress is a parent secretly wishing to be sedated. Okay, the last part may just be me, but sometimes the moods of our children shift so swiftly and fiercely from cheer to rage, we’re left dazed and confused. Kids don’t grow out of bad moods like they do shoes. So let’s explore some common ‘very bad mood’ triggers and tips for how to avoid them. Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Why Terrible Horrible Moods Happen to Good Children
*Exhaustion. Hello? Sleep deprivation makes children of all ages emotionally weird and less resilient. Teens especially must get enough shut eye!
*Changes in routine. All parents get this intellectually, yet still we are caught off guard when our kids react to change with distress. “But you said we’d get ice cream right after school!” (Can you feel the power of those words like nails on a chalkboard?) WE think they must learn to go with the flow. THEY want predictable outcomes.
*Tummies growlin’. The tricky part
*Overstimulation. Too much of a
good thing can be lovely…and it can be bad. Real bad. Noise, interference, and stimulation in a child’s surroundings can cause increased irritability. And unfortunately, children often don’t realize it’s the ENVIRONMENT making them edgy and grumpy. 38
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about cranky, hungry kids? They can be extremely resistant to acknowledging their hunger. You have to do the thinking and be armed with snacks especially when away from home.
*Growing pains. Yep. Blame it on hormones. Physical and neurological growth can cause children to be moody. Let’s keep reminding each other about this one, deal? *Injustice. “Hey! Sophie got a bigger slice!” Even if Sophie didn’t get the sizeable helping, perceiving she did can trigger a nasty mood. Advertising: 251-929-2099
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Bust a Mood 1) Look to children’s literature.
Sharing a book is one way to connect with kids in a discussion of moods. Remember little Alexander from Alexander and the Horrible Very Bad Day? Poor guy can’t even get away from his bad day when he settles down for the night. He bites his tongue, and the cat deserts him! But there is someone there to bust his mood. Fortunately, he has a parent who reassures that everyone has bad days. Another title combining a silly sense of humor with grouchy feelings is Big Rabbit’s Bad Mood, by Ramona Badescu. Laughter is good medicine for monstrous bad moods.
ance in the form of quality attention for at least 20 minutes daily (ideally, more time than that). • Soak up the sunshine. Children need to build up a positive emotional memory so they can access those happy places when life isn’t going smoothly. Dr. Hanson suggests spending a few minutes at bedtime reviewing all the things that make her feel good and reminding her to savor those things.
2) Listen to the experts and their advice.
• Watch out for stress. Some moody kids have a hard time coping with stressors such as long days of childcare, overscheduling, and too-high expectations. While we can’t eliminate stress for kids, be a good model of coping. Reassure them they don’t need to worry and teach strategies to calm themselves.
• One-on-one attention. Make sure your moody child is getting plenty of nurtur-
• Seek out objectivity. Frequently it helps to ask a teacher, family friend or counselor for an opinion about your child’s moods—is there a bully at school? Is it possible you are missing something?
Authors of Mother Nurture (2002), Rick and Jan Hanson, have excellent tips for easing sour moods.
• Assess their diet. Think about whether your child is eating enough protein or too much sugar. Make sure she is offered nutritious meals, consider vitamins, and watch for symptoms of food allergies. • Take care of yourself. Don’t forget about your own needs for nurturance. Moody kids can add up to lots of stress into the home, so take good care of your relationships and your own emotional well-being.
3) Do not underestimate the power of rest.
Bad moods hate a restful slumber. Are you getting enough rest to cope with these moody children? You need your energy and stamina for these terrible, no good days! See a connection between sleepovers and your child’s bad mood? Do everything in your power to promote better sleep habits for you and your family. Michele Ranard has a husband, two children, and a master’s in counseling.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
What’s In Your Closet? by Marla Cilley
Our journey through life starts with our first breath and it ends with our last one. Since our birth we have packed many bags for our trip. We are born naked, but then we have to put clothes on our bodies. These clothes tell our history...from the baby shoes we took our first steps in to the dress we wore to the prom, our wedding dress to the maternity clothes we wore when we gave birth. I’ll wager that your closet recounts many of the chapters of your life. Our closets are filled to overflowing. Each time we open our closet door we have a conversation with those clothes. If the truth be known we actually wear only a few items in our closet. The rest are there to beat us up and pretend to rescue us. Our clothes have a way of making us feel bad. Just think about your wedding dress that no longer fits your body. What are
Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
your first thoughts? How could I let this happen to me? I looked so good that day. Then I want you to think about how you starved yourself to death to fit into that dress in the first place. Those nasty conversations go on each time you walk into your closet. If it isn’t about a wedding dress it is about another favorite outfit that you paid good money for that is now too tight. It is time for us to quiet these beratings and get on with our flight without feeling guilty. There is an easy way to banish these voices from your head; get them out of your closet and only keep items of clothing that you absolutely adore and feel like a million bucks in when you wear them. Decluttering your closet is not going to kill you; in fact, it may just save your life. It is time we packed for our journey. Our closets are no longer going to stand in our way of traveling light and enjoying our trip. Most of us only wear about 10% of the clothes we have stashed in there anyway. Let’s lighten our load and get rid of those nasty voices once and for all. Out of sight, out of mind! We can do this. First we need to look at the clothes we truly love because we feel good in
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them. This goes for your shoes, too. Pull those out of your closet one at a time and think about the words you hear in your head when you have them on. Now put them back in your closet and pull out something that does not give you the same feeling. If the item of clothing makes you feel bad, evokes feelings of guilt in you or you just don’t like it then put it in the “give away” box. If you have changed careers and no longer have to get dressed into suits then donate them so others can start their new jobs and look nice. Let me warn you...going through your closet is difficult because of all the stories that your clothes dredge up. This is why I only want you to spend 15 minutes at a time doing this. Do not spend hours; this will make you feel sick . Bless yourself by being kind to you. Bless others by donating those clothes that say ugly words when you enter your closet. For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, check out her website at www.FlyLady.net or her book, Sink Reflections, published by Random House, and her New York Times Best Selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2012 Marla Cilley. Used by permission in this publication.
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Visit Us Online - www.DrTreys.com • Find Us On Facebook at Dr. Trey’s Children’s Dentistry 24208 US Highway 98, Fairhope, AL 36532 (Across from Sportsman’s Marine) 41
Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Dave Says...
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Moving in with Mom Q. We’re on Baby Step 1 of your plan,
and we have $1,000 saved. We have a baby, my husband brings home about $2,000 a month, and we have $50,000 in debt, the majority of which is student loans. My mother-in-law has offered to let us move in with her for a while in order to pay off our debts more quickly and save up to buy a house. Does this sound like a good idea?
A.
If your husband can get his income up, I’d prefer that you guys maintain your own residence. Moving in with a parent would be my last choice, if for no other reason than keeping your independence and maintaining some dignity. Plus, it’ll just be better for your marriage. But you don’t need to even think about buying a house until you first clean up the mess you’ve made. Still, if things get so tight you feel like you have to take your mother-in-law up on her offer, make it for a very limited amount of time. Write it down as an agreement too. I’d say a minimum of six months, but definitely no more than a year. During this time you guys need to get on a killer budget, knock out a bunch of debt, and pile up as much cash in savings as you can. Then, find yourselves an inexpensive place to rent for a while. Hopefully, by that time your husband’s income will have increased.
But the big thing is to get stuff straight in your mind about this situation. Make sure everyone involved knows the arrangement is temporary and that you and your husband are serious about doing the hard work it’ll take to put your financial house in order. You guys shouldn’t still be living with a parent two or three years down the road!
Q. Recently, I discovered that my wife secretly kept and used credit cards over the last several years. I also found out there are two liens on our home from some of this debt. She was hiding the mail from me so I wouldn’t find out. I’m angry about the dishonesty, but I want us to get the debt cleaned up. What do you suggest? A. This debt and the liens are a symptom. What we’re looking at here is a repeated pattern of lying and deception. Anyone can become scared or ashamed and make a mistake, but this has happened several times. It’s called financial infidelity for a reason. Really, it’s the same kind of lying as sexual infidelity. It hurts and makes people angry on a lot of the same levels, and that’s because it’s a broken trust. Assuming that you guys can talk things out and heal this rift in your marriage, you’re going to have to contact these credit card companies and try to settle the debts.
You guys aren’t bringing home a lot, so you need to start scratching together every nickel and dime you can and make an offer to erase these debts. That will also remove the liens on your home. Many times creditors will settle a debt for pennies on the dollar. If you’re lucky, you may be able to get them to accept about 25 percent of the amount owed. But I think you’ve got a much bigger problem here. You guys have some serious issues that need to be resolved. I’d advise going to your pastor, if you’re in a good church, or finding a reputable marriage counselor. Your wife needs to understand, loud and clear, that this kind of crap has to stop immediately! Dave is the author of The New York Times bestselling book Financial Peace. He is also the host of the nationally syndicated The Dave Ramsey Show. You can hear Dave online at www.daveramsey. com. Send your questions to askdave@ daveramsey.com. He resides with his wife Sharon and their three children, Denise, Rachel, and Daniel, in Nashville, Tennessee.
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ORTHODONTICS
Dr. Mike McDuffie | Dr. Shane Langley
625-2525
Daphne - Fairhope - Bay Minette - Loxley Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
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How to help kids choose an extracurricular activity Today’s kids are busier than ever before. Commitments in the classroom coupled with a full slate of extracurricular activities have ensured that many of today’s school-aged children don’t have a minute to spare. While it’s important for kids to embrace extracurricular activities, parents know it’s not always easy helping kids find the right activity that allows them to grow outside the classroom while still focusing on their responsibilities inside it. In addition, kids’ interests tend to change at the drop of a hat, so something they want to do today might bore them come tomorrow. To help kids choose and manage their extracurricular activities, consider the following tips.
* Emphasize that schoolwork must come first. Kids get excited about extracur-
ricular activities, especially ones involving sports where they get to spend time playing with their friends. But parents should emphasize that school still comes first and that, if schoolwork starts to suffer, participation in extracurricular activities will be put on hold until kids get their studies back on track.
* Go over coursework at the start of the school year. Examine a child’s course load
Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com
before choosing an extracurricular activity. It’s important to do this each year, as coursework gets more difficult as children get older. Just because a child could handle a couple of afterschool activities a week when he or she was in fifth grade does not mean such a schedule will be as manageable when the same child reaches high school. Go over coursework and requirements as early as possible, preferably before the school year starts, so you and your child can get a grip on what can and can’t be handled with regards to extracurricular activities.
* Get a grasp of the commitment required of a given activity. Extracurricular
activities require various levels of commitment. Varsity sport participation, for example, typically requires daily commitment and often requires kids to participate on weekends or even the sport’s “off-season,” which may include summer vacation. However, volunteering with a local charity likely won’t require such a large commitment and such charities often allow volunteers to choose their own schedules. Parents and their children should consider the level of commitment an extracurricular requires and choose the activity they’re most comfortable with.
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* Don’t overlook the social benefits of extracurricular activities. When helping
kids choose an extracurricular activity, it’s important to leave the ultimate decision in their hands. After all, kids won’t get much of the experience if they’re reluctant to participate. However, parents should not overlook the social benefits of extracurricular activities. Consider those benefits when helping kids choose activities, especially if they’re likely to choose solitary activities like learning a musical instrument. It’s good to encourage such interests, but also try to encourage a balance between solitary activities and ones that encourage socialization with peers, such as a sports team, debate club or volunteering with other students at a local charity.
* Don’t forget the fun factor. Extracurricular activities are not just supposed to instill character, they’re supposed to be fun. If kids aren’t having fun or showing any interest in a given activity, then help them find another one. Kids need time to have fun away from school just like adults need time for fun away from the office. Weigh how enjoyable a given activity figures to be for your youngster before signing them up.
Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
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After School Activities Guide After School Care Bay Camp After School
100 South Church Street, Fairhope (Fairhope K-1 Center), (251) 752-4897, www.easternshorebaycamp.com Whether you are looking for an after school program, place to put your child during school breaks or you need a complete summer program, you’ve found the right place! We believe parents should have the peace-of-mind in knowing your child is in a secure nurturing environment with experienced staff who can not only provide kids with a rewarding experience, but also help them gain a sense of self worth, grow spiritually, become mentally and physically strong, help those who are different, and simply enjoy life to the fullest.Transportation provided from school. Snack, homework time and tutoring, field trips and play time. Monday – Friday until 6pm. Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Hot Wheels
616 Whispering Pines Road, Daphne, (251) 626-5120 www.hotwheelsdaphne.com Under the direction of Coach Carol Valdes and her staff, students will have snack each afternoon and 30 minutes of assisted homework time. Then students will be able to skate, play air hockey, foosball, pool table, ping pong, board games, Wii or PS3!. Monday – Friday until 6pm. We will pick up at Daphne East, Daphne Elementary, W.J. Carroll, Christ the King, Bayside Academy, Spanish Fort, Rockwell and Fairhope Elementary. Please inquire about other schools. Full Time- 5 days, $40, additional siblings $35. Part Time – 3 days, $24. Daily rate - $8. $50 registration fee per student.
YMCA After School Program
8051 Whispering Pines Road, Daphne, 251-626-0888 www.ymcaofsouthalabama.org The YMCA after-school program starts the first day of school. Parents must pay the 44
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Fo activity fee, first week of care, and have the registration packet and immunization form completed in order to be registered. Registration starts July 1st. One-time activity fee: $50. Days/Hours: M-F after school-6 pm (5 days), M, W, F after school-6 pm (3 days) Weekly fee: $21 Tues, Thurs after school-6 pm (2 days), Weekly fee: $14, Daily rate after school–6 pm, Daily fee: $7. YMCA programs are centered on the YMCA character values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. We plant the seeds of Christian character in kids and families to encourage participants to grow in mind, body, and spirit.
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Paint’n Parrot, LLC
9 N Church St., Suite A, Fairhope 251-928-4161, www.paintnparrot.com After school art classes! A different project each week. Pottery, wet clay, fused glass, mosaics, and much more! Reservations Advertising: 251-929-2099
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required at least one week in advance. We offer weekly or monthly rates. Please call for class dates and times or visit our Facebook page for upcoming events.
Paint Slingers
(251) 445-2288, www.paintslingers.net, Beginning Painting for Youth - Tuesdays 4:00-5:30. This class is a great way for school age students to transition a love of drawing into skills for painting. Class reinforces drawing skills and teaches basic to intermediate acrylic painting skills. $70/month, all supplies included.
Bay Rivers Art Guild
1704 Sixth Street, Daphne, 251-621-0659, www.bragart.org Offering afterschool and home school art classes for youth in the fine arts. Check the website and Facebook for the Fall 2012 schedule.
Eastern Shore Art Center
401 Oak Avenue, Fairhope, 251-928-2228, www.esartcenter.com Children’s art classes include painting, drawing, pottery and mixed media. Check the website for Fall after-school class schedules.
Back to School Uniform Sale July 20th and 21st
Foley Art Center
19 West Laurel Ave., Foley 251-943-4381, www.foleyartcenter.com Call or visit the website for information on our upcoming after school art and music classes for children.
Dance Baypointe Dance Academy
25476 Friendship Rd, Daphne 251-621-3980. Call for Fall Registration information. Family Discounts. Award Winning Dance Company. We offer Preschool dance classes, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical and Acrobatics.
Creative Outlet Dance Center
66 1/2 S. Section St., Fairhope 251-928-9511 www.creativeoutletdance.com. The fall schedule will be posted on our web site on July 9th Fall classes start August 20th.Classes offered for ages to adults, beginner to advanced dancers, and Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
morning and evening classes. We offer reasonable tuition with family discounts, affordable and tasteful recital costumes. Our instructors have college dance degrees and or professional experience. The dance curriculum is age appropriate, physically safe and emotionally supportive. Classes include Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Hip Hop, Modern/Lyrical, Tap, Acrobatic Dance and even Super Hero Training for Boys. Classes are designed to encourage and stimulate the progress of each student’s mental and physical capabilities by teaching the art of dance with nurturing teachers in a noncompetitive professional environment.
Eastern Shore Dance Academy
9063 Merritt Lane, Daphne 251-626-2300 www.easternshoredance.com Offering classes in Ballet, Point, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip-Hop and Performing Company. Boys Power Classes (ages 6-12) offered Break Dance, Frump, Hip-hop and more. Fall 2012 Registration: Sat. July 14th, 2pm-6pm; Sat. August 4th, 2pm -6pm. Classes begin Monday, Aug. 20th. $30 Registration fee (non-refundable). Call or visit the website for more information.
Gulf Coast Dance Alliance
9945 HWY 31, Suite E, Spanish Fort 251-621-9755 Ages 3 & up. Offering dance classes in: Ballet/Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, AcroGym, Christian Dance Classes, Hip Hop and Adult Classes. Visit the website for Fall classes information and online registration.
Southern Edge Dance Center
251 S. Greeno Rd, Fairhope 251-610-8902 www.southernedgedancecenter.com Check out our website and Facebook for Fall class schedules and more information. Classes for ages 3 to adult. Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical, Pointe, Tap, Hip Hop, Musical Theater, Tumbling and Baton.
Susan’s Academy of Dance
108 5th Street, Daphne, 626-3835 www.susansacademyofdance.com Classes begin Monday August 20th. On-site registration dates: Friday, Aug 3rd 10th, 17th from 2:00pm – 6:00pm; Saturday Aug 4th and 18th, 9:00am – 2:00pm or you may register anytime online on the website. Offering morning, afternoon, and evening
classes in Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical, Contemporary, Hip Hop, and Tumbling. We have 3 studios that have floating professional dance floors to reduce fatigue and prevent injuries. Ages 2 and Up. Age appropriate music, costumes and choreography. Family discounts offered.
The Little Gym
22530 Hwy 98. Publix Shopping Center Fairhope, AL36532 (251) 928-3387 www.tlgeasternshoreal.com Our programs include movement, music, gymnastics, sports, exercise, games, listening and cooperation. Also offering dance - a combination of ballet, tap, creative movement, and gymnastics - ages 3-12.Offering “Bugs Class” ages 4-10 months. Each child receives individual attention and progresses at their own pace in a non-threatening, warm and nurturing environment. Check the website for details.
Bayshore Ballet Academy
305 Fels Avenue, Fairhope, 251-990-9744 www.bayshoreballet.com For registration information, please contact Janet Carole, Director.
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Dare to Dance
Highway 59, Robertsdale 251-421-0210, www.d2dance.110mb.com Dare 2 Dance is a studio for serious dance training as well as recreational dancers. We offer classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip-hop, Lyrical, Modern/ Contemporary Dance. Classes offered for children and teenagers.
Eastern Shore Twirlers
www.easternshoretwirlers.com, DirectorStacy Forbes, stacyforbess@aol.com, 251-689-3675. Baton twirling teaches rhythm, coordination, leadership, selfdiscipline and perseverance. Ms. Stacy specializes in dance twirl so it is a lot of fun learning routines to upbeat and exciting music.
Green Acres School of Dance
18451 Ohio St. #A, Robertsdale 251-747-5848, www.greenacresdance. com, greenacresdance@hotmail.com. Visit us on Facebook for Fall registration information. Celebrating 36 years of dance! Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Hip Hop-Jazz, Gymnastics, Cheerleading, Zumba, Baton, Christmas & Mardi Gras Parades, Dance & Gymnastics Birthday Parties.
K.B.Danz
206 Madison Street, Summerdale 251-404-2331 www.kbdanz.com We are located off Hwy 59 behind Fabrics by the Pound. For information on fall classes and registration, please call or visit the website. Our studio is open for class on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. We offer classes in Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical/contemporary, Hip Hop and Acro. Ages 2 - adult. 3,000 square foot state of the art facility, two dance rooms, Sprung “Marley-Type” dance floors, Onsite shoe and apparel shop.
Mobile Ballet
26436 Kensington Way, Daphne 251-626-8932, www.mobileballet.org Mobile Ballet Eastern Shore is now registering for fall classes. Visit the website to register online. We are now offering Saturday classes, and Action Hero Classes! Some of our students also have the unique opportunity to participate in Mobile Ballet’s annual production of “The Nutcracker” at the Mobile Civic Center Theater and participate in “The Nutcracker Charity Ball” Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Slippers and Taps School of Dance
22245 Hwy 59, Robertsdale 251-947-5001 or 251-747-8036 Owner - Mandy Moore. Slipper and Taps School of Dance is the home of the Driven Dance Company! We offer classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop and Contemporary. Call or visit the Facebook Page for more information on Fall classes and registration.
Southern Glitter School of Dance and Baton
20489 Hwy 181, Fairhope 251-422-3848, www.southernglitterstudio.com, southernglitterstudio@yahoo.com. Offers many dance classes for all different skill levels in Fairhope, AL. Ballet-Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Baton, Lyrical, Acrobats. We have classes starting from ages 3 and up. Visit the website for Fall classes and registration or email southernglitterstudio@ yahoo.com.
Educational/ Tutoring Huntington Learning Center
6890 US Hwy 90, Suite 20, Daphne 251-621-1057 www.huntingtonlearningcenter.com. Huntington Learning Centers help students of all ages build the skills, confidence and motivation to attain better grades. Whether your child is struggling in school or simply seeking a more enriching academic experience, our individual, personalized programs will make a difference. Our exam prep instruction for college-bound students is personalized, private tutoring that gives students test-taking strategies and shows them how to apply their knowledge to questions that involve problemsolving, analytical thinking, reasoning, drawing conclusions, interpreting facts and essay writing.
The Think Tank
251-414-4494 www.TheThinkTankTutoring.com Improve your child’s grades with OneOn-One tutoring in your home! The Think Tank Tutoring and Educational Services is your solution • All Subjects • PreK - Adult • SAT/ACT Prep • Reading • LD/ADD • Math • Science • Foreign Languages Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
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•SOAR Study Skills. • Affordable Rates • Certified Teachers. Summer Tutoring is a great way to catch up & get ahead with Reading and Math! Our average student improves 2 letter grades in just 90 days!
Gymnastics Bay City Gymnastics
7980 American Way, Daphne 251-621-2112, www.bcgagymnastics.com What could be more fun than spending an afternoon running, jumping and flipping? Nothing! Come and join us after school to “let loose” and have fun at Bay City Gymnastics. Did you know that gymnastics is the greatest overall body conditioning activity that you can have your child involved in? It develops strength, flexibility, kinesthetic awareness, muscular control, endurance, coordination, agility, speed, balance, courage, grace, posture and poise! Your children will be gaining so many valuable tools while having so much fun! We offer Mommy & Me Classes ages 18 months to 2.5 years, Tumbling Tots Classes ages 3-5, Recreational Classes for both Girls and Boys ages 5 and up, Tumbling Classes for Beginners and Advanced tumblers, and Competitive Team. For a complete list of our class schedule please visit our website www.bcgagymnastics. com. Call today for your free introductory class 621-2112!
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Eastern Shore Gymnastics Academy
8566 Athlete Drive, Daphne 251-447-0505 www.easternshoregymnastics.com Our Mission at ESGA is to provide structured gymnastics instruction in a fun, motivating atmosphere. At ESGA, all students are encouraged to maintain good sportsmanship, while learning to work hard to achieve their goals. ESGA was founded on the principle that all children need a positive outlet in their life. As a gymnast and coach for nearly 30 years, and a judge for 2 years, Suzanne Hinkley wants to give to the students of ESGA what gymnastics has given to her. ESGA offers a wide variety of classes from Parent & Tot classes to Competitive Team. Visit the website for upcoming registration in July for the 2012-13 season. Home to more than 50 Individual State and Team Championships. Advertising: 251-929-2099
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The Little Gym
22530 Hwy 98. Publix Shopping Center Fairhope, (251) 928-3387 www.tlgeasternshoreal.com Our programs include movement, music, gymnastics, sports, exercise, games, listening and cooperation. Also offering dance - a combination of ballet, tap, creative movement, and gymnastics - ages 3-12.Offering “Bugs Class” ages 4-10 months. Each child receives individual attention and progresses at their own pace in a non-threatening, warm and nurturing environment. Check the website for details.
Jubilee Gymnastics and Tumbling
26090 Equity Drive, Daphne 251-298-8950 Call or visit the website for Fall registration information. Proudly serves the Daphne area – providing beginner, intermediate, and advanced gymnastics instructions at competitive rates. Our staff is experienced, knowledgeable, and prepared to exceed your expectations. At Jubilee Gymnastics & Tumbling, your satisfaction is our top priority.
Horseback Riding Oak Hollow Farms
14210 Greeno Road, Fairhope 251-928-4840, www.oakhollowfarm.net Call or visit our website for more information on riding lessons, group events, parties and special events.
Rawhide Boarding Stables
Hwy 3, Fairhope 251-928-7897 Riding lessons, horse boarding, hay rides and parties. For parties, we can bring the horses to you or you can come to our stable. Call for more information.
Whitfield Farm Horseback Riding
10309 Rebel Rd, Daphne 251-626-4634 Horseback riding lessons for beginner thru advanced.
Martial Arts SCS Sport Karate
Highway 64, Daphne, (on the side of the Staples building)
251-625-4257, www.scssportkarate.com SCS Sport Karate offers classes for young and old. We team up and never give up with both students and parents to help reinforce the positive traits you want your child to have such as focus, respect, confidence, self-control and discipline all in a positive, high energy environment that will improve their fitness and prepare them for any obstacle they may encounter in their future. Call to schedule a free private lesson where you can have all your questions answered and meet our team.
Yamane Championship Mixed Martial Arts
1410 US Hwy 98, Suite D, Daphne 251-621-0304, www.ycmma.com Our Teens/Kids classes will be one of the most positive memorable experiences for both parents and their children. Children have a fantastic time learning Mixed Martial Arts and parents enjoy the tremendous rewards of seeing their children having fun. We strive to ensure our Teens/ Kids Program is exciting, yet structured, disciplined and appropriately challenging. We accomplish this thru our carefully focused program which teaches your child
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
ally any situation, whether they are standing up or on the ground. They also learn conflict resolution and when they should and shouldn’t use their skills. Have your son or daughter try a private introductory class with one of our instructors. Afterwards, you’ll have a consultation to discuss goals, scheduling and our programs. Visit the website for more information.
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important physical fitness exercises, basic practical Mixed Martial Arts self-defense, and fun skill developing games in an energetic and motivational fashion.
Eastern Shore Taekwondo Center 25478 Friendship Road, Daphne 251-621-9933, www.tkdonline.us
The Tomaso Center
906 Nichols Avenue, Fairhope (251) 610-6805 www.tomaosmartialarts.com The Little Dragon Program (Ages 3-5): The perfect choice for your preschooler. Your child will have fun while learning developmental skills, all within a safe, healthy and exciting environment. Registration is ongoing and is based on a 15 -week enrollment program. For Kids (Ages 6-9): We teach a realistic self-defense system that combines karate, kickboxing and submission grappling, so kids learn to defend themselves in virtuEastern Shore Parents I July 2012
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(251) 979-6834 www.baldwincountyyouthorchestra. com, baldwincountyyouthorchestra@ gmail.com Baldwin County Youth Orchestra is NOW Auditioning For: Youth Orchestra, Beginning Band, Beginning Strings Class, Intermediate Strings Class, Baldwin Wind Ensemble, Baldwin Jazz Band, Community Adult Strings Orchestra. For more information on the ensembles, auditions, sponsors or events visit BaldwinCountyYouthOrchestra.com or by email: baldwincountyyouthorchestra@gmail.com. The Baldwin County Youth Orchestra is a non-profit 501c3 organization committed to educate, promote and enrich the community by building relationships through musical awareness, performance and tutelage. Please “like us” on facebook.
Center Stage Performance
251-210-4534 www.CenterStagePerformance.com P.O. Box 53, Fairhope Children’s Chorus Production Class Weekly one-hour class for grades K-6 in Advertising: 251-929-2099
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Fairhope. Each semester our class produces a musical where EVERY student has a special part! Our Fall show is, Pirates - a hit for all boys and girls! Visit www.CenterStagePerformance.com for further details and registration or call Jessica Weber at 281-682-1605. Find Center Stage Children’s Chorus on Facebook for updates! Center Stage Show Choir Group of students in grades 7-12 with an interest in singing and performance. Students receive vocal instruction, choreography coaching and tour across the Eastern Shore with an exciting show! Our performance concludes with a major endof-the-year production! Weekly class is held in Fairhope and an informal audition is required. For questions or to schedule an audition, visit www.CenterStagePerformance.com or call Center Stage director Jessica Weber at 281-682-1605. Find Center Stage Show Choir on Facebook!
Jubilee Music
505 North Section Street, Fairhope, 251-928-1003 Jubilee Music offer a large variety of classes for all ages and levels. Call for available class times and more information.
Marjorie Searcy- Vocal Coach
251-929-7841, www.marjoriesearcy.com Marjorie Searcy offers voice lessons for all ages. Please call for information on workshops and individual sessions.
Modern Ensemble Music
251-279-7362 www.modernensemblemusic.com. Guitar and Drum Lessons from beginning to advanced. Rock, Blues, and Jazz. At Modern Ensemble, it is our goal to provide the best in one-on-one private instruction coupled with ensemble classes where students learn to play contemporary music styles in small group band settings.
Scouting Boy Scouts of America Mobile Area Council 251-476-4600, www.bsamac.org
Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama
(251) 344-3330 / (800) 239-6636, www. girlscoutssa.org
and Facebook, Email: communications@girlscoutssa.org
Team Sports Daphne Recreation Department
2605 Hwy 98 - next to Daphne Civic Center, www.daphnesports.com/registration info. The Daphne Recreation Department offers Youth Soccer, Youth Football, and Youth Cheerleading in the Fall. Registration for the Fall Sports programs take place from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm at the Daphne Recreation Department on 3 Saturdays in July (dates may vary). At this time we only accept registration in person at the Recreation Department (2605 Hwy 98 - next to Daphne Civic Center). You can download and print the registration form on the website. Fees: Soccer (ages 4-14) - $60, Football (ages 7-12) - $80, Cheerleading (ages 7-12) - $25 **does not include game uniform.
Eastern Shore Aquatics Center Home of S.W.A.T.
10580 County Road 64, Daphne 251-625-0950, www.esaquatics.org S.W.A.T. (Southern Waters Aquatic Team, a USA-licensed Swim Team) Lessons for all ages and abilities.
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Fairhope Youth Baseball
www.fybaseball.org, 251-929-0359 fairhopeyouthbaseball@gmail.com. Fairhope Youth Baseball is a league for over 700 boys and girls ages 5-14, committed to providing a recreational program that emphasizes sportsmanship, fair play and a family oriented atmosphere. Visit the website for updates and Fall registration information to be posted soon.
Fairhope Youth Basketball
www.facebook.com/pages/FairhopeYouth-Basketball,waynerhop@gmail.com Fairhope Youth Basketball is the city recreational basketball league open to boys (K-10) and girls (K-8) who live in the Fairhope district, whether or not they attend Fairhope City Schools. 2012 Basketball Season Registration Dates and Times: Sat 10/22, 9am-12pm; Sun 10/23 2pm-5pm; Tues 10/25 6pm-8pm; Sat 10/29 9am-12pm. All sign-ups must be completed at the City Rec Center (new gym) on Greeno Road during the dates and hours listed (see Description on our Facebook page for 2012 dates). We do not offer on-line registration.
Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Fees for 2012 are $75 per child for all ages. All participants MUST have a skill evaluation to ensure competitiveness of the teams. The 2012 season starts January 7th and runs through early to mid-March. Check the Facebook page for any changes in schedule and updates.
Fairhope Youth Football and Cheerleading
251-379-4057, www.fyfootball.org and Facebook. Youth Football and Cheerleaders - open to boys and girls ages 7-12. Registration by phone or email going on now through July 30. $100 per player, Price includes Jersey, Pants, Equipment Usage, and League. Check the website for full registration procedures, evaluation dates, and updates.
Fairhope Blast Soccer Leagues
www.mobilebayfc.net Contact: fsl.registrar@gmail.com The merger of Fairhope Soccer League and Blast Futbol club has created a new organizational structure to better meet the needs of the community, parents and players. Visit the website for full details on the Fall 2012 season.
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Swatters Sports Complex
251-968-4864, 21431 Co Road 12, Foley Open 7 days a week. Swatters is an all indoor sports facility as well as a fitness center with no contract req., private and group baseball and softball lessons, speed and agility classes, summer sports specific clinics, monthly Dodge Ball tournaments, top of the line sporting goods store, adult indoor pick up soccer and of course our 7 baseball and softball batting cages.
YMCA Sports
8051 Whispering Pines Road, Daphne 251-626-0888, www.ymcaofsouthalabama.org Youth Sports are offered in soccer, basketball, swimming and more. Y youth sports programs offer children the ability to learn good sportsmanship, communication skills, the value of healthy competition and offer a way to have fun while building gross motor skills. We encourage parents to get in on the action by volunteering as a coach, team parent and, of course, acting as your child’s number one cheerleader. Visit the website for registration times and more information.
Advertising: 251-929-2099
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600 Morphy Avenue (Fairhope Municipal Courts) http://fairhope-tennis-academy.tripod. com Brad Townshend – USPTA Certified Professional twonshendtennis@gmail. com, (251) 753-6501 Joseph O’Dwyer – USPTR Certified Professional/ATP Tour Coach jodwyercelt@hotmail.com, (251) 716-1882. Please visit our website for group and private lesson information.
John Dotson
251-786-0507; Dotson.John@gmail.com Private and Group lessons for all ages and levels.
Lake Forest Racquet Club
1 Golf Terrace, Daphne, AL, (251) 626-0788, www.lfpoa.com/tennis Our membership is served by a terrific staff including our tennis pro, Mike Albrecht. Mike offers classes to all ages including group clinics and private les-
Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com
sons. He also provides great professional support to all the Lake Forest teams that participate in various leagues.
Miscellaneous
Mike Kent
Daphne Recreation Center, 251-625-3137 A Professional Modeling Course for both males and females. In this course you will learn visual poise and grace, runway and informal modeling, wardrobe coordination, stage presentation, photo posing techniques, professional make-up application and grooming for gentlemen. 5 week session for ages 12-18.
334-524-8650, Private and Group lessons for all ages and levels.
Point Clear Tennis
17030 Tennis Club Dr., Fairhope 251-928-7715 Our tennis pros provide expert instruction for both seasoned players and beginners. Enjoy the challenge of private lessons and tennis clinics as you strengthen your endurance and your skills on the court. Our pros - Matt McKelvain, USPTA Certified Professional, mattmckelvain@gmail.com Brad Townshend – USPTA Certified Professional twonshendtennis@gmail. com Joseph O’Dwyer – USPTR Certified Professional/ATP Tour Coach, jodwyercelt@hotmail.com
Timber Creek Tennis
9650 Timbercreek Blvd. 251-621-9927
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Professional Modeling Course
Protocol- Social Etiquette & Table Manners
Daphne Recreation Center, 251-625-3137 A Social Etiquette and Table Manners Course. Proper introductions, table setting, Proper use of silverware, correct posture for standing and sitting, making a toast, thank you notes, dinner conversation, proper way to give and receive gifts. 5 week course for ages 7 - 17. If your after school activity is not listed in this issue, please send an email to lynn@easternshoreparents.com and we’ll include it in our August issue!
Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
July Vacation Bible Schools Celebration Church
8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope (251) 928-0343 www.fairhopechurch.com August 6th – 8th from 6pm – 8:30pm. Celebrate Kids at Celebration Church will be telling the story of Jonah in a way never seen before. Bring your bathing suit for water slides and an appetite for adventure as we join Levi and Link on their journey into the Forbidden City. Register online at www.fairhopechurch.com/ VBS or for more information email Austin@ fairhopechurch.com.
Jubilee Baptist Church
9264 Pleasant Road, Daphne (251) 621-7095, www.jubileebaptist.com Theme: “Amazing Wonders Aviation” Kids will travel the world over and see the seven wonders of the world. July 9-13, 5:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. VBS Dinner is served at 5:00 p.m. with camp activities following from 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Visit the website for registration.
Ascension Lutheran Church
8888 County Rd. 64, Daphne www.ourdaphnechurch.org Theme “AMAZING DESERT JOURNEY;”
Where Jesus leads us home Open to children ages 3 - 12 years old July 16th - 20th; 9 am to 12 noon Call the church for more information: 251-626 -7500 or cel # 251-375-6700.
Barnwell Baptist Church 7780 US Highway 98, Fairhope/ Point Clear, (251) 928-8286; www.barnwellbaptist.org Mon, July 16 – Fri, July 20
Christ the King Church
1505 Main Street, Daphne (251) 621-1640, www.ctk-daphne.org July 16-20 VBS: 4 years – 4th Grade VBS Ultimate: 5th & 6th Grade, Youth Volunteers: 7th Grade and up Contact: Alyssa Morisani (251) 709-7944
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 8271 Whispering Pines Rd., Daphne (251) 621-2968; holytrinitydaphne.org Theme: “Mission Space”
July 11 - 13th; 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Open to rising Kindergarteners through fifth grade. Registration going on now through July 1st. Come by the church to fill out a form on Tuesdays or Thursdays between 9:00 a.m.-12 p.m. or call Heather Ludwig at (251) 978-5684.
Trinity Presbyterian Church
545 S. Mobile St, Fairhope (251) 928-2524, www.tpcfairhope.org July 9-13, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Ages K4 years – Rising 5th Grade
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College Application Time 3 Wise Ways to Help Your Student & Keep Perspective
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by Michele Ranard, M.Ed.
When it comes to college applications, “getting in” can feel like a cruel test of mental and emotional stamina. How much editing help should a parent give on the essay? Which extracurriculars appeal to admissions officers? Which university provides the best fit?
Feeling Alone in the Madness
The most challenging element of the college planning process for this parent has been feeling alone in the anxiety. Fellow parents of teens don’t freely share information. Things are competitive out there. It was a relief to discover Getting In Without Freaking Out (2006) by Arlene Matthews. A professional college consultant, Matthews says college bound students and their parents need to take a major chill pill. Her guide is full of practical tips for tackling college app angst, and Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
if you have vocal chords, you WILL laugh at her commentary. The following culled from the book and personal experience just may lower your blood pressure and increase optimism. Think of it as free therapy!
1) College Admissions is TRENDY.
It used to be that kids who were bright and well-rounded were placed by admissions officers at the top of the application heap. The acronym BWRK was all the rage a few years ago. Then parents everywhere made the mistake of pushing their kids into activities and community service and BWRKs fell from favor. Turns out colleges now prize angular candidates who sport a sharply focused interest or talent. Whether your child is well-rounded or angular, rest easy knowing the planet needs all shapes and sizes. Well-rounded types do well in a variety of fields from 56
medicine to movie making, and angular types create great art and discover new technologies. Instead of trying to package your teen based on current admission fads, you should cherish and celebrate their unique shape. Jay Mathews, an education reporter for The Washington Post, suggests stressed out parents repeat this mantra: “People succeed because of the quality of their character, not the notoriety of their college.”
2) It’s Who They Are, Not Where They Go.
Very successful people once attended some un-cool sounding colleges. (An ordinary guy named Ron Reagan went to Eureka College in Illinois and sort of did okay.) Our society has become so competitive within the realm of parenting that many people believe where their kids Advertising: 251-929-2099
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attend college is reflective of the job they did raising them. Ever heard a version of this at a cocktail party? William wishes he could say yes to BOTH Stanford and Yale! Fabulousness just runs in the family! We are all charmed by designer schools, but generic is underrated, and it is simply pointless to freak about getting your kids into the “perfect” designer school since that school does not exist. Not even in the Ivy League! Matthews, with great comic verve likens the Ivies or “trophy schools” to “trophy wives.” While the name of a trophy school may leap out on a graduate’s resume, like a trophy wife, those schools can also be expensive and notorious for investing more in new prospects than current students. Lloyd Thacker of The Education Conservancy, contends, “A commercialized point of view is what turns the admissions process into a game...There is very little evidence that correlates the status of a college with effective educational practice. Parents need to listen to the facts, not their friends at cocktail parties.”
Matthews reminds that in the scheme of things, there is a point where college credentials cease to matter. When college days are history, employers in the workplace want to know what you have accomplished and whether you will continue to deliver. You may not be aware of what college your friends, co-workers, or employer attended, but you ARE cognizant of whether your friend has strong moral character or if your co-worker has a notable work ethic.
We are all charmed by designer schools, but generic is underrated, and it is simply pointless to freak about getting your kids into the “perfect” designer school since that school does not exist.
3) Late Bloomers Can Finish Strong.
If you have a late bloomer, you may feel concerned. Your child may be bright with multi-potentiality but has yet to discover his niche. Perhaps she has no published articles, patents or a single hospital named in her honor. It can be frustrating to sense that colleges want to see greatness demonstrated now. The reality is plenty of teenagers are just getting warmed up. Deferred bloom-
ing may even have a silver lining. After all, peaking at age 18 may spell disappointment down the line. Matthews points out the deferred greatness of Cervantes who completed Don Quixote at age sixtyeight and Grandma Moses who began painting in her late seventies. History reminds us finishing strong is honorable. Muddling through the “getting in” application process requires stamina, chocolate, and a sense of humor. Let’s face it. Worrying won’t appease the admissions gods or increase anyone’s chances of acceptance. So arm yourself with realitybased facts instead. Michele Ranard has a husband, two children, and a master’s in counseling.
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Receive hands-on training and graduate in as a little as 10 months, so Chop. Chop. - Head toward a new career and ENROLL TODAY.
251.445.8900
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7241 Dolphin Street • Daphne, AL
Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Fairhope Youth Cheerleading Holds Skills Camp
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Young cheerleaders eagerly kicked off the new season at the Fairhope Youth Cheerleading Camp in June. At the camp girls learned the fundamental of cheerleading including cheer technique, jumps, chants, tumbling and even stunts! Fairhope Youth Cheer has developed an awesome youth program for girls ages 4-12. The program trains girls for a future in high school level cheerleading through progressive skills development. Fairhope Youth Cheer is also excited to announce the next camp, Thriller Cheer Camp! This camp is being held July 9-12 from 4-7pm at the Fairhope Recreation Center. This camp is only $60 before July 8th and $65 at the door. Girls will learn an 80’s inspired Thriller cheer dance, how to project a strong voice, elevate those toe-touches and pop those motions. July 12th is 80’s dress up day with a performance for parents to watch at 6:30pm. So…get those sequined gloves and leg warmers out to help your girl show her spirit! GET YOUR CHEER ON! For more information and to pre-register contact: Carrie Cox, Director of Cheerleading cac1745@yahoo.com 251.367.8118 Pictured, from right: Madylin Head 9, Abigail Counselman 7, Ashleigh Adams 9, Shayne Higgins 10, Caroline Helms 10, Olivia Counselman 9, Mary Glen Benson 12, Abigali Cox 9.
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St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church Boards the “Vatican Express”
St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church recently held its annual vacation Bible school led by Father Paul Zoghby on its campus in Foley, AL. This year’s theme was “The Vatican Express” which incorporated Bible stories, crafts, and music to teach about various topics including St. Peter, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, St. Jerome & the Lion, and the formation of the Catholic Church. Pictured are the 80 participants along with the vacation bible school coordinator, Karen Storozuk, and fellow volunteers. St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church is located at 601 West Laurel Avenue in Foley. For more information regarding the Church please visit its website at www.saintmargaretofscotland.net or call the Parish office at 251.943.4009.
Southern Edge Dancers Perform “Carmen” at Saenger Theater
Students of Southern Edge Dance recently performed Carmen choreographed by Lori Bilbrey Vaghefi at the recital held on June 2. This year’s recital was titled Illumination. The 5th Illumination recital was held at the historical Saenger Theater in downtown Mobile. There were more than 600 in attendance.
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Public Library Activities Daphne Public Library
Fairhope Public Library
2607 US Hwy 98 251-621-2818
501 Fairhope Ave. 251-928-7483
Hours Monday & Tuesday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Wednesday 1 - 6 p.m. Thursday 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunday Closed
Hours Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sunday Closed
Storytimes, Activities, & Crafts
Weekly Activities
Lapsit (ages 2 and under), Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. Preschoolers (ages 3-5), Wednesdays 2 p.m. School Age Story Time (ages 5-8), Thursdays 10:30 a.m. After School Kids Story Time Thursdays 3:45 p.m.
Lapsit Storytime (ages 2 & under with caregiver present) Mondays and Thursdays, 10 a.m.; Preschool Storytime (ages 3-5 with caregiver present) Mondays and Thursdays, 11 a.m.; Spanish Story Time with Carolina Neves Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.; Elementary Art (Kindergarten-3rd grade) Thursdays, 4 p.m.; Tween Tuesdays (Ages 9-12) Tuesdays, 4 p.m.; Teen Night (13 & Up) Mondays, 4:30 p.m.
Daphne Teens
Teen Advisory Board Meetings - 2nd Tues. of each month, 3:45 – 4:45 p.m.
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Join us for a cool week of Christmas projects including Wet Clay projects! Nativity, Christmas decor, Ornaments and More! Reservations required. Please call for class dates and times.
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Library Orange Beach Public Library
26267 Canal Road 251-980-2360 Hours Monday, Tuesday, Friday 9-6 Wednesday, Thursday 9-8 Saturday 9-3 Sunday Closed
Storytimes and Activities
• Preschool Storytime, every Tuesday, 10 a.m. • Books are Great (children of all ages), Tuesdays 3 p.m. • Pokemon Club (children of all ages), Saturdays 10 a.m. • iPad Basics Course, May 17 and May 31, at 3:00 p.m. Attendees must bring their own iPad. To register please visit www.orangebeachlibrary.org and click on Events or call 251-981-2923.
Foley Public Library 319 East Laurel Avenue 251-943-7665
Storytimes
Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10 a.m. (Wednesdays are repeat programs) Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com
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Summer Safety Slip-ups
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And How to PLAY IT SAFE by Sandra Gordon
No big deal, you think—so what if my child doesn’t want to wear his helmet. He can go for a bike ride without it just this once. Or you get caught up in conversation at a pool party instead of keeping an eye on your toddler. It’s no surprise that accidents happen, even when we’re trying to be careful. But because we’re outside more and the days are longer, summer can be an especially dangerous time. According to SafeKids Worldwide, there’s an 89 percent increase in children drowning in the summer months and a 45 percent surge in bike-riding deaths. Fortunately, turning your child’s summer into a safety zone is a matter of making a few precautionary tweaks. Here are some small risks you might be taking that can lead to big problems, and our top tips for avoiding them.
Safety slip-up: Tossing charcoal
after a BBQ. Cleaning out the grill and disposing of coals in a remote section of Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
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your yard or campground or at the beach may seem like a good idea because it’s far away from everyone. Trouble is, kids run all over the place in the summer and they’re often barefoot. “Charcoal can get up to 1,000 degrees F,” says John Drengenberg, the consumer safety director at Underwriters Laboratories, in Northbrook, Illinois. Even if the coals don’t look hot, they can retain their heat for hours. And it only takes a moment’s contact with a scorching coal to seriously burn a child’s delicate foot.
in different colors, such as purple, blue and red, and can easily be upturned and ingested. Another common mistake parents of young children make: “They’ll pour gasoline for the lawn mower into a smaller container, like a measuring cup, and leave that sitting around,” says Rose Ann Soloway, R.N., a clinical toxicologist at the National Capital Poison Center in Washington, D.C. In addition to being poisonous, “Kids can swallow it or breathe it into their lungs, causing aspiration pneumonitis, which can be fatal,” Soloway says.
Play it safe: Whether you’re at home,
Play it safe: Store tiki oil in its origi-
at the beach or camping, cool down hot coals before disposing of them. Douse them with a garden hose or a bucket of water after cleaning out the grill.
Safety slip-up: Keeping tiki oil with-
in your child’s reach. Toddlers and older kids are drawn to anything that looks like juice. Tiki oil, which is used more in the summer, to light tiki torches, comes 62
nal container out of your child’s sight and reach, in a locked cabinet just like you do medicine and vitamins. The same goes for gas, charcoal lighter fluid, antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid. These containers don’t have child-resistant caps, which a determined toddler may be able to override anyway. If you believe your child has something potentially poisonous, call the Poison Control Advertising: 251-929-2099
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Center at 1-800-222-1222. You’ll be connected with a nurse, physician or pharmacist at a local center who is specially trained in recognizing and treating poisoning. Do this instead of heading directly to a hospital emergency room or call 911—you’ll get the fastest advice on how to handle the situation.
Safety slip-up: Assuming someone
else is watching the kids. “At pool parties, many parents assume somebody else is watching. Mom assumes Dad’s watching. Dad assumes Mom’s watching and it’s easy to get distracted,” says Phyllis F. Agran, M.D., M.P.H., professor emeritus of pediatrics at the UCI School of Medicine, in Irvine, California. Even a few unsupervised minutes in the water can be deadly for a young child.
Play it safe: Assign a supervisor. One
of you needs to be officially on duty and concentrating on your child. At pool parties with children present, designate a supervisor and make it clear by saying to your spouse, for example, “Okay, you’re on duty while I’m chatting with our
friends.” But don’t think it’s enough to make your older kids, who are having fun too, keep an eye on your younger ones. Make that supervisor your spouse or another adult.
Safety slip-up: Letting your older child ride his bike without a helmet. Studies show that kids ages 11 to 15 tend to wear helmets less often than younger ones.
Play it safe: Be on helmet patrol. A
bike helmet can reduce the risk of bicycle-related traumatic brain injury by up to 88 percent. So, of course, you’ll want to make sure everyone—you included— is protected with a properly fitted helmet whenever you ride. Keep on your older child to always wear one.
Safety slip-up: Keeping the wading
pool filled. “Young kids can drown in an inch of water or less,” says Drengenberg, so don’t think the water in your child’s baby pool is harmless.
Play it safe: “Dump the wading pool
when you’re done with it,” Drengenberg
says. “And turn it upside down so it doesn’t catch rain water.” In fact, empty all outdoor containers of water after use, including five-gallon buckets and insulated coolers; they’re a formidable drowning hazard.
Safety slip-up: Leaving your
medication on the hotel night stand. “When we’re traveling, it’s often much easier for youngsters to get into things that might be safely stored at home,” says Soloway. We stow medication and vitamins in suitcases, on night stands-places that are accessible to children, she says.
Play it safe: If you don’t have access
to a locked cabinet, store your medication and vitamins out of your child’s reach just like you would at home. Do the same at Grandpa and Grandma’s house, too, and do a safety check. Make sure any medication or vitamins they take aren’t accessible to your child.
Sandra Gordon is a journalist specializing in health and nutrition. She’s the author of Consumer Reports Best Baby Products.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Youth Group Attends Conference in Florida
Youth Group Members of Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church recently attended Reformed Youth Ministries (RYM) conference in Panama City Beach, FL. RYM conferences provide the opportunity for church youth groups to interact with one another in a beautiful, fun, learning environment that encourages unity, community and depth of relationship with God and one another. Pictured here are bottom row: Charlie Brock, Crawford Stitt, Tyler Pimental, Liam Searcy, Riley Boles and Jack Stevens; Back row: Steven Davey, Adam Davis and Bryant Brock.
Gulf Coast Dance Alliance Dance Competition Champions
Gulf Coast Dance Alliance competition team recently competed in the KAR Dance Competition. The team is now proud to hold the title of Regional Champions!
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Send your team or group news to lynn@easternshoreparents.com.
Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
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Youth Group Takes Spring Break Mission Trip to Mexico
The Youth Group from Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church recently participated in a mission trip to Camichines, Mexico outside of Guadalajara, to help the Acosta Family that has 16 foster children who live with their family. The group worked with their children during school providing PE and VBS activities while the men helped pour concrete, electrical wiring, bike maintenance and built a wall on the third floor of the house. They also ministered to the children in the community with two kids’ nights. One involved the younger kids and one the entire town's youth which also provides them with a hot dinner. We played games... threw Mardi GRAS beads, tie dyed shirts and had a Bible lesson sharing the Easter Story using Resurrection eggs. Pictured are Pastor Brock, Priscilla Brock, Perrin Mabry, Amy Boles, Simon Boles, Lindsey Scott, Barbra Lockridge, Bob Decker, Savannah Rodriguez Feo, Tyler Pimental, Ralph LaGuardia.
TNT Swimmers Participate in Meet in Biloxi
TNT practices at the Bounds Family YMCA under the direction of Coach Jan Mittemeyer. This was a three day meet with prelims and finals for those who qualified. Kyle Simpson, Asley Szydel, Sahra El-Hamaki, Adele Mantiply and Simon Boles are some of TNT’s senior swimmers who participated in the Splashin' the Coast Meet in Biloxi, Mississippi June 29- July 1.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
A Page in a Book
by Paige Gardner Smith
Baseball Books Round the Bases The sport that became iconic as ‘America’s pastime’ has provided a host of baseball idioms that permeate our everyday language. You can play in the ‘big league’, ‘batting 1000’ and be a ‘heavy hitter. Or you can be thrown a ‘curveball’, be way ‘off base’ or ‘strike out’. Knowledge and appreciation of baseball develops an understanding of the sport’s definitive effect on American culture and psyche. This season’s bases are loaded with fantastic books for baseball players, fans and newbies to the sport! Check out the following titles that celebrate the game and really knock it out of the park.
Brothers at Bat
by Audrey Vernick, Illustrated by Steven Salerno (Houghton Mifflin / Clarion) The true story of an amazing all-brother baseball team, ‘Brothers at Bat’ relates the saga of the Acerras family who in the 1930s fielded twelve brothers with a deep-seated love for baseball. As kids they played ball during every free moment (even their four sisters joined in as they could). When they were old enough to play in the local league, they formed their own team with Dad as coach (who never missed a game) and traveled the region playing against other teams. When the war came, the brothers joined the service, yet they all made it back home again to play as a team for many more years! A loving testament to family and a family’s loving testament to the game, this book’s vintage sensibilities feel like ‘Home Sweet Home’ for baseball lovers.
ABCs of Baseball
by Peter Golenbock, Illustrated by Dan Andreasen (Penguin / Dial) In a sport that is rife with so many expressions, terms and idioms, having a kids’ book that explains it all in a simple, easy-to-digest format brings the game home to roost with the ‘ABCs of Baseball’. Each fully illustrated two-page spread features one to two letters of the alphabet with several baseball terms (beginning with that letter) and an explanation of each. For example, the letter ‘C’ includes ‘coaches’ ‘Cracker Jack’, Cartwright’ (as in Alexander C., the inventor of baseball) and ‘can of corn’ (an easy catch by a fielder – who knew?). Grow your child’s baseball knowledge (and your own) and get your game on with this colorful and informative title!
The Boys
by Jeff Newman (Simon & Schuster) Using an informal baseball game in the park as the backdrop for a bigger story about inclusion and helping kids find friendship with others through shared interests, ‘The Boys’ is a charming wordless picture book that knocks it out of the park with its powerful message. When a little boy, all geared up to play baseball, is too shy to approach the baseball-playing regulars in the park, he ends up hanging around with old men on a nearby park bench. As the shy little boy begins to slowly adopt their senior citizen style and habits, the old gentlemen come up with a plan to get this rookie off the bench and into the game.
Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Are You Punishing
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Yourself?
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Getting Rid of the Guilt and Understanding the Effects of Punishing Children by Gina Roberts-Grey LCSW
Imagine sitting staring at the wall of the room you’ve just been banished to, reflecting on what you’ve said or done. Fidgeting with the throw pillows on the bed, you mumble to yourself about a disagreement that just occurred. Contemplating if you should have made a different choice or wondering if you’ve been too harsh, you replay the events that led up to the situation. Could you have possibly been wrong? Should you apologize? Did your emotions get the best of you? Is being grounded -- from everything -- for two whole weeks fair? This scenario is one that is played out countless times a day in households with children. On first glance, you’d naturally assume this scene is being played out by a child who has been sent to his room as the resulting punishment of being disrespectful or fighting with his sibling. Ironically, this situation is all too familiar to parents who have had to administer punishments that affect their children. Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
There are many instances when a child’s behavior requires parental intervention and the situation leads to going overboard. Frequently feuding siblings, irresponsibility, or consistently failing to follow through with assigned household chores has caused many of us to take away liberties we ordinarily wouldn’t restrict. If this sounds familiar, welcome to the large contingent of parents who realize they may have grounded a child for longer than the circumstances warrant. Sending a child to his room, taking away liberties and privileges, and not permitting a child to attend a social event are a few frequently relied on parental options for punishments. As much as we rely on a variety of reasonably fair tactics to modify our children’s behavior, there are moments when frustration and despair push the most rational of parents over the edge of sanity and into the ‘Strong Arm of the Law Zone’. When cooler heads prevail, you emerge from the place where you just handed down sentences far stricter than 68
alt an ah yo am pri log po of yo ou
you ordinarily would, questioning the decisions you’ve made. It is understandable that a visit to this place of desperation and anger leaves parents questioning their ability to parent and feeling guilty for the tough decisions they’ve made. Understanding what your expectations from a punishment are, and how to resist pangs of guilt, will help you keep a level head and stop questioning your choices.
Why Do You Reprimand Your Child?
It is important for parents to understand what they expect out of a punishment. As simple as that plan sounds, it is not always easy to execute. Are you trying to instill stronger values as a result of a punishment? Do you hope that your children will get along with each other better or be more respectful? Whatever your reasons for reprimanding your child, taking the time to accurately identify them will help you administer punishments and restrictions that don’t leave you feeling guilty. Advertising: 251-929-2099
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Make a list of the last few incidents that resulted in you grounding your child or restricting his privileges. Note the circumstances and emotions that led to your decision. Were you frustrated or disappointed as a result of your child’s behavior? Did the punishment meet your expectations and correct the behavior? Did you have to modify your original decision hours or days later because you felt you were too strict or not strict enough? The answers to these questions will lead you to assigning adequate penalties that don’t leave you punishing yourself as well.
Knowing what your breaking point is, and recognizing when you’re moments from reaching it will give you a guideline to follow. If you become irritated after asking four times for the garbage to be taken out, realize that instant may not be the most opportune moment to discuss the situation with your child. Taking just a few minutes to collect your thoughts and formulate your plan to modify his behavior can be the difference between your child hearing and understanding your message and tuning out what he hears as a tirade.
Going Beyond Your Point
Sending your child to his room all weekend long may also result in you staying indoors or at home as well. A tearful and apologetic child may warm your heart and urge you to vacate the punishment you established hours before. It is common to want to grant your child a reprieve either out of love or because now you’ve grounded not only your child but yourself as well. Second guessing your decisions or realizing that perhaps you’ve crossed over the line of reasonability tends to
Often, after a typical household altercation highly charged emotions and hurt feelings run rampant through a house. Anger or frustration may spur you to ground your child for an excessive amount of time or restrict virtually every privilege. Although calm and rational logic tells you that carrying on past the point of reason tends to lessen the impact of the message you’re trying to convey to your child, emotions can send logic flying out the window.
Making Another Decision
Gina Roberts-Grey is a contributing writer.
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leave parents feeling even more guilty or confused. Trying to be a good parent and role model, you naturally want you child to fully comprehend the consequences of his actions. Communicating the message of these consequences is not always an innate trait. Don’t be afraid to revamp a restriction and tailor a punishment specifically for the situation. You might realize that taking away going to a party as a result of fighting with a sibling can be substituted with spending time helping a sibling to clean their room. Grounding a child from watching television for not doing his homework may not be as effective as directing him to use the time he would be watching television reading a book or practicing math facts. While many parents fear that rethinking a punishment may reduce the validity of their message, re-evaluating your position offers your child a secondary lesson. Demonstrating that you realize you are capable of making a mistake and you’re able to identify when you’ve made a mistake helps teach your children valuable tools of introspection.
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Family Calendar Ongoing
American Sport Art Museum and Archives Located on the campus of the United States Sports Academy in Daphne, dedicated to the preservation of sports history, art, and literature. Exhibits spotlight visiting artists on a rotating basis, as well as our permanent collection of prints, sculpture, original paintings, photographs and other arts media. Free admission. Hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 1 Academy Drive, Daphne. For more information call 251.626.3303 or visit www.asama.org. Big Brother / Big Sister Mentors Needed At-risk children at Summerdale School need volunteer Big Brother Big Sister mentors. “Bigs” have fun with a child one time a week, for one hour, on school grounds, during the school year by reading a story, working puzzles, playing catch, drawing, or just being a friend. Professional training and support are provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama YMCA, Inc. For more information or to volunteer, contact Polly at 251-344-0536 ext. 104. Eastern Shore Art Center A non-profit arts organization located in beautiful downtown Fairhope. The Art Center houses four galleries with exhibits that change monthly, as well as a gallery featuring member artists’ work for sale. Admission is free. 401 Oak Street, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928.2228 or visit www. easternshoreartcenter.com. The Exploreum • IMAX Film: Tornado Alley Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, JL Bedsole IMAX Theater (65 Government St.). Narrated by Bill Paxton (Twister, Titanic), the film follows Storm Chasers star Sean Casey and the scientists of VORTEX2, the largest tornadoresearch project ever assembled, on separate missions to encounter one of Earth’s most awe-inspiring events—the birth of a tornado. Whirling above the human drama are the storms themselves, magnificent forces of nature revealed in breathtaking detail through the magic of the giant screen, making this heart-pounding film one of the most eagerly anticipated IMAX® releases of the decade. Experience the adrenaline and the science of nature’s most dramatic phenomena! Now Through Sept. 3. Closed most Mondays. See website for showtimes. Adults/ $8; youth & senior citizens/ $6.75; children/ $6. Contact: 251-208-6873/ www.exploreum. com. • “Strange Matter” Something strange is taking shape at the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center this summer! Running through September 3, Strange Matter lets visitors catch a glimpse of where the future of materials research might take us. Strange Matter’s hands-on technologies and interactive experiences reveal the intriguing and remarkable properties and applications of modern materials that appear in such high-tech fields as cardiac surgery and the space program, as well as items
Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
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used in everyday life. Thru Sept. 3. General admission to the Exploreum: Adults (19 - 59)/ $14; Youth (13 - 18) & Senior Citizens (60+)/ $12.50; Children/ $12. Combo tickets include a viewing of an IMAX film: $18; $17; $15.50. The Exploreum is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. For tickets or more information visit www.exploreum.com or call 251-208-6873. 65 Government Street, Mobile. Fairhope Museum of History The museum is full of artifacts from old Fairhope. You can see displays on Clay City, the Single Tax Association and the Civil War. You can also see personal belongings from some of Fairhope’s first families. The museum is located in downtown Fairhope at 24 North Section Street. The museum is open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, call 929-1474. Marietta Johnson Museum This museum was founded to preserve the oldest school building in Baldwin Country, which was founded in 1907 by famed educator Marietta Johnson. Known as one of the first progressive schools in the world, the museum includes historic letters, documents, and artifacts from the school’s heyday, as well as biographical information about Marietta Johnson. To learn more, visit www.mariettajohnson.org. Open Mondays-Fridays from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free. 440 Fairhope Ave. 990-8601. Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve The Weeks Bay Reserve has a free educational interpretive center and two boardwalks. The Interpretive Center houses a multitude of exhibits, habitat models, specimen collections and a diorama giving the visitor a better understanding about the value of estuaries, diversity of coastal wetlands, and a close-up look at living plants and animals of coastal Alabama. Admission is free. Hours are Monday – Saturday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. 11300 US Highway 98, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928-9792 or visit www. weeksbay.org.
Classes/Meetings
Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) Offering Adoptive Family Support Group Meetings in Baldwin County the 3rd Monday of each month. The meeting is held at Eastern Shore Church of Christ, 1209 Daphne Ave, in Daphne from 6-7:30 p.m. Parent, Youth/Teen group and childcare is available. Topic discussions by adoption professionals and ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information call 251-4602727 or 1-800-489-1886 or www.childrensaid. org. APAC also offers free counseling services to adoptive families. Breastfeeding Class Held Monthly on the first Tuesday of the
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month at Thomas Hospital’s Wellness Center in Fairhope. 6 – 8 p.m. No pre-registration required. Free. Cancer Support Group-Family Connected by Ribbons Support group for cancer survivors, friends and family. Open to any types of cancer. Every first Thursday of every month from 6 - 8 p.m. Morphy Conference Room (Old ER entrance) at Thomas Hospital, Fairhope. Preregistration not required. Call 209-1229 for more information. High Hopes and CAAR (Center for Autism and Asperger Resources) Support group for families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders and other development delays in the High Hopes Classroom at St. Benedict School. St. Benedict is located at 12786 South Illinois Street, Elberta. Meetings are held every other Monday at 6 p.m. lead by Rachael Mueller, M. Ed, BCBA, High Hopes Director. Children are welcome. For more information visit www.highhopes4pdd.org. Infant CPR and Safety Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Preregistration required. To register call 2791373. Saturdays, 4-6 p.m. Aug. 4; Oct. 6; Dec. 1. Moonlight Chasse’ Ballroom Dance Society Dance lessons from 7 – 7:30 p.m., and Dancing from 7:30 – 10 p.m., first and third Monday of every month, at Fitzpen Place, 1 mile east of Eastern Shore Mall. No partner necessary. $10 per person includes dance lesson. $7 with membership, includes dance lesson. Live music, cash bar. www.FitzpenPlace.com. www. Moonlightchasse.com. For more information, call 251-621-6665 or 251-377-4069. MOPS on the Eastern Shore We meet at Faith Family Fellowship in Spanish Fort on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month, September through May. MOPS is designed to nurture mothers and it is for all mothers from all walks of life who have children birth through K-5. We have a morning meeting and an evening meeting. Each meeting provides an inviting environment where women can come - just as they are - to build friendships, be encouraged, gain practical parenting strategies and have fun all while their children are lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program. A typical meeting includes sharing a meal together, listening to a speaker that is of interest to mothers with young children, participating in a roundtable discussion, or doing a creative craft project. The children’s program includes care for infants as well as classes for toddlers through kindergarten. Check us out on our website to find out more about us at www. easternshoremops.blogspot.com. Moving Through Labor Childbirth Classes Three or four-week prepared childbirth class series which prepares the mother-to-be and her support partner for the labor and delivery experience. $30 fee for the class series. Thomas Fitness Center, (Fairhope) Mondays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. July 2-July 30; Aug. 13-Sept.10; Sept. 24Oct.22; Nov. 5-Dec. 3; Dec. 10-Jan.14. Thomas
Advertising: 251-929-2099
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Fitness Center (Fairhope) Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 4; Oct. 6; Dec. 1. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Tuesdays, 6-8:30 p.m. Aug. 14-Sept. 4; Sept. 18-Oct. 9;Oct. 16-Nov. 6; Nov. 20-Dec. 11. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. July 19-Aug. 16; Aug. 30Sept. 27; Oct. 11-Nov. 8; Nov.11- Dec. 27. Preregistration required. Call 251- 279-1373 or visit www.thomashospital.com for upcoming classes and registration. Natural Childbirth Classes, Fertility Awareness, Mother’s Comfort, Exercise and Nutrition For class schedule or more information call Geralyn Piizzotti, 251- 928-9396. Yourbodyyourbirth@bellsouth.net. Breastfeeding Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Monthly, first Tuesday, 6-8 p.m. July 3; Aug. 7; Sept. 4; Oct. 2; Nov. 6; Dec. 4. 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. July 9; Aug. 13; Sept. 10; Oct. 8; Nov. 12; Dec. 10. Pre-admission Sessions 6 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Pre-registration required. July 2; July16; Aug. 6; Aug. 20; No Session Sept. 3; Sept. 17; Oct. 1; Oct. 15; Nov. 5; Nov. 19; Dec. 3; Dec. 17. Sibling Class Thomas Hospital Fitness Center (Fairhope). Preregistration required. To register call 2791373. 10-11 a.m. Aug. 18; Nov. 17. Infant CPR and Safety Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Preregistration required. To register call 2791373. Saturdays, 4-6 p.m. Aug. 4; Oct. 6; Dec. 1. PUMC Caregiver Support Group A new support group for caregivers of aging parents and others is discussing “boundaries” at monthly meetings open to the community. The public is invited to be a part of this support group, which meets monthly at Providence UMC, located between Spanish Fort High School and Middle School at 32200 Jimmy Faulkner Dr. For more information about the new support group, call the church office at (251) 626-2510 or email pumc.office@bellsouth. net. For more information about Providence UMC, call the church office or visit the website at www.providencemethodist.org. Shepherd’s Place (Christian Life Center) Ministry for memory & physically challenged. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 South Section Street, Fairhope. 928-1148. Tango by the Bay ~ Argentine Basic classes are held every Tuesday from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. in Fairhope at Southern Edge Dance Studio, located behind Pizza Hut across from Thomas Hospital. 251 South Greeno, Fairhope. $5 per class (fee may be higher with special guest instructors). For more information Contact Ben Samel at 605-2657 or Cassie Fishbein 3774069, cassief13@aol.com.
Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com
You can see the wonderful impact The Little Gym can have on your child when you join us for a FREE introductory class. Call or schedule your free class online The Little Gym of the Eastern Shore www.tlgeasternshoreal.com 251-928-3387 22530 Hwy 98, Publix Shopping Center, Fairhope Experiential learning and physical development programs for children ages 4 months through 12 years
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Family Calendar
July2012
Thomas Hospital offers the following support groups for the community: Alanon (Alcoholics Anonymous) Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 800-477-1104 for more information. Alateen Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room East Tower meeting room at Thomas Hospital. Call 391-1152 for more information. Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 345-7645 or 438-9590 for more information. ALS Support Group Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month from 11 a.m. to noon at Thomas Medical Center. Call 205-937-4415 for more information. Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Health Resource Center located at: 308 S. Greeno Road, Fairhope. Call 928-8650 for more information. Cancer Support Group for Women Meetings are held the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room. For more information, call Patti Huval at 209-1229. Diabetes Support Group Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Diabetes Center. Call 279-1700 for more information. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Support Group Meetings are held every Thursday night from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 251- 965-6264 for more information. Parkinson’s Support Group Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month from noon to 1 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251- 455-9919 for more information. Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Support Group Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251- 626-6337 for more information.
film follows Storm Chasers star Sean Casey and the scientists of VORTEX2, the largest tornadoresearch project ever assembled, on separate missions to encounter one of Earth’s most awe-inspiring events—the birth of a tornado. Whirling above the human drama are the storms themselves, magnificent forces of nature revealed in breathtaking detail through the magic of the giant screen, making this heart-pounding film one of the most eagerly anticipated IMAX® releases of the decade. Experience the adrenaline and the science of nature’s most dramatic phenomena! Now Through Sept. 3. Closed most Mondays. See website for showtimes. Adults/ $8; youth & senior citizens/ $6.75; children/ $6. Contact: 251-208-6873/ www.exploreum.com. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum Something strange is taking shape at the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center this summer! Running through September 3, Strange Matter lets visitors catch a glimpse of where the future of materials research might take us. Strange Matter’s hands-on technologies and interactive experiences reveal the intriguing and remarkable properties and applications of modern materials that appear in such high-tech fields as cardiac surgery and the space program, as well as items used in everyday life. Thru Sept. 3, 2012. For ticket information and hours, visit www. exploreum.com or call 251.208.6880. Community Freedom Celebration in Fairhope 6 p.m, Fairhope Municipal Pier & Rose Garden. The event will include: Children reciting passages from our most important historical documents. A Color Guard to present the colors. Representatives from each of the branches of the Armed Forces will be on hand. There will also be a cannon firing and local elected officials will speak. There will also be an opportunity to show appreciation to all the veterans and to all those still serving in the Armed Forces. The Celebration will also include a Community Choir made up of area chorales and church choirs. We’ll sing arrangements of traditional standards such as, The Star-Spangled Banner, America, the Beautiful, God Bless America, God Bless the U.S.A. and others. Singing a Salute to the Armed Forces which includes the anthems of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard and Marines. The Freedom Celebration is free and open to the public. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, and be prepared to show your patriotic spirit. For more information or questions, call 251-929-1466.
Sunday, July 1
Monday, July 2
Celebrate Independence in Downtown Fairhope Stroll downtown and see historic downtown Fairhope decorated in red, white and blue! Look for special promotions and activities planned all over town. For additional information call 251929-1466. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, JL Bedsole IMAX Theater (65 Government St.). Narrated by Bill Paxton (Twister, Titanic), the
Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Celebrate Independence in Downtown Fairhope Drop by the Fairhope Welcome Center for a complimentary glass of fresh lemonade and a flag! Volunteers will be there to answer any questions you have about shopping, dining or just about anything! For additional information call 251-929-1466. Fairhope Public Library Movie Monday Presenting E.T. 2 p.m. 251.929.1465 www. fairhopelibrary.org.
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Tuesday, July 3
Celebrate Independence in Downtown Fairhope Visit the Fairhope Museum of History and learn about the extraordinary patriotism of our Fairhope heroes. Special spotlight on WWII. The exhibit features stories of how the war affected Fairhope and gives firsthand accounts of the war from local veterans. For additional information call 251-929-1466. Fairhope Public Library: Lapsit Story Time 10 a.m.- 10:20 a.m., Ages 2 & under will enjoy songs, fingerplays and a short story during Lapsit story time. 251.929.1465 www.fairhopelibrary. org. Fairhope Public Library: Preschool Storytime 11 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. Ages 3-5 are invited to join us for stories and a craft every Tuesday this summer! 251-929-1465, www.fairhopelibrary. org. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
Wednesday, July 4
Fairhope Fireworks Display on the Pier The Baldwin Pops Band Independence Day Concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. in Henry George Park. A variety of patriotic music will be played before and during the fireworks display. The Fairhope fireworks display, coordinated by the Fairhope Volunteer Fire Department, will begin at approximately 9 p.m. The north end of Fairhope Municipal Park will be open throughout the day and will remain open until no parking is available. The south end of the beach front park and Knoll Park will be available to spectators. Handicap parking will be available near the fountain but will be limited. Those who wish to park in the handicap area should arrive early and plan to stay until the fireworks are over. WABF 1220 AM will be broadcasting the Baldwin Pops concert live for those who are not able to make it down for the concert. Also, those who sit on the bay front bluffs for the fireworks should bring their battery powered radio and tune it to WABF 1220 AM for better sound. For more information on Fairhope’s Fourth of July Festival and Fireworks display call 929-1466. Daphne Jubilee Independence Day Celebration Trione Sports Complex, Free. Lawn chairs or blankets are suggested. For more information contact (251) 621-3707, www.daphneal.com. Gulf Shores - Main Beach, 101 East Beach Boulevard, Gulf Shores Festivities begin at 9 p.m. and are visible on any area of Gulf Shores beach. Tune radios to 105.7 to hear patriotic music during the show. Free. 2512.968.1172, www.gulfshoresal.gov. USS Alabama Fireworks Show Annual fireworks display at 9 p.m. at the USS Alabama Battleship Park preceded by performance of the Mobile Pops Orchestra at 7
Advertising: 251-929-2099
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p.m. 251.470-7730, www.cityofmobile.org. 7th Annual “4th at the Wharf” Orange Beach. See a spectacular fireworks extravaganza at the Wharf to include live entertainment, patriotic music and dedications. 7 p.m.-midnight. Admission charged. 251.224.1012. www.TheWharfAL.com. The Magnolia Springs Annual 4th of July Parade Will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Oak Street. All participants are to line up on Woodlands Drive by 10:30 a.m. The parade route will be down Oak Street ending at the Magnolia Springs fire Department. Refreshments will be served. The community encourages participation in our event.
Thursday, July 5
Celebrate Independence in Downtown Fairhope The biggest Summer Outdoor Market of the year from 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. behind the Fairhope Public Library. A wide variety of local produce, fruits, local honey, fresh cut flowers, plants, baked goods and more! Live entertainment at the market provided by local artist Daniel Dennis. The Fairhope Public Library will be providing a story time at 4:00 p.m. for children. (For additional information visit http://fairhopelibrary. org/kids.htm). For additional information call 251-929-1466. Fairhope’s Summer Outdoor Market In Correlation with the week-long events of “Celebrate Independence in Downtown Fairhope”, join us for the biggest Summer Outdoor Market of the year from 3 p.m.-6 p.m. behind the Fairhope Public Library. The market will provide a wide variety of local produce, fruits, local honey, fresh cut flowers, plants, baked goods and more! There will be live entertainment at the market provided by local artist Daniel Dennis. The Fairhope Public Library will be providing a story time at 4 p.m. for children. For additional information visit http://fairhopelibrary.org/kids.htm. Fairhope Public Library: Tweens Tweens are invited to join Ms. Laura in the Fairhope Farmers Market behind the library for fun outdoor activities! Contact information 251.929.1465. www.fairhopelibrary.org. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
Friday, July 6
Celebrate Independence in Downtown Fairhope Art Walk begins at the Eastern Shore Art Center at 6 p.m. Visit art galleries throughout downtown Fairhope for great artwork, music and refreshments. For additional information call 251-929-1466. Wales West Independence Week Celebration Days See the website and Facebook Page for details on activities offered such as Karaoke, Line Dancing,
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Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Family Calendar Family Bingo, Outdoor Movie, 3rd Annual Kiddie Carnival and Bike Parade, 1st Annual Duck Race, Cookout, Live Music, Fireworks and more! 13670 Smiley Street, Silverhill, www.waleswest.com and Facebook, 1 (888) 5695337, enquires@waleswest.com.
Saturday, July 7
Saturday, July 7 Fireworks and More at Wales West See the website and Facebook Page for details. www.waleswest.com. LuLu’s Fresh Art Market Every Saturday through Labor Day, visit LuLu’s for an afternoon of celebrating sand, sun, and Arts and Crafts from local and surrounding area artists! A portion of the proceeds of every sale go to Baldwin County Public Schools fine arts departments through LuLu’s LOVE FUND, 200 East 25th Ave, Gulf Shores. 251.967.LULU (5858); www.lulubuffett.com. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
Sunday, July 8
Wales West Independence Week Celebration Days See the website and Facebook Page for details. www.waleswest.com.
July2012
Monday, July 9
Fairhope Public Library Movie Monday Presenting Hugo. 2 p.m. 251.929.1465. www.fairhopelibrary.org. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
Wednesday, July 11
Herbs 101 With Annette Daugherty from The Gulf Coast Herb Society. If you want to learn more about growing, preserving and cooking with herbs … this is the program for you. 10:30- 11:30 a.m. Reservations Requested. Bellingrath Gardens Admission ($12.00 for adults & $ 6.50 for children 5-12) is charged for non-members attending programs. Call 251.973.2217 X 111 for reservations. Fairhope Public Library Wednesday Entertainment Live animal encounters provided by the Gulf Nature Center. 251.929.1465. www. fairhopelibrary.org. Fairhope Public Library: Teens and Tweens 4 – 5 p.m. Live animal encounters provided by the Gulf Nature Center. 251.929.1465. www.fairhopelibrary.org. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley
See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
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Thursday, July 12
Fairhope’s Summer Outdoor Market (Last Day of the 2012 Summer season) 3 - 6 p.m. behind the Fairhope Public Library. The market will provide a wide variety of local produce, fruits, local honey, fresh cut flowers, plants, baked goods and more! There will be live entertainment at the market provided by local artist Daniel Dennis. The Fairhope Public Library will be providing story times and activities each week at 4:30 p.m. for children. For additional information visit http:// fairhopelibrary.org/kids.htm. For additional information about the market call 929-1466. Eastern Shore Camera Club Meeting Providing members, from beginners to professionals, with educational and skill building opportunities in the art of photography; open to anyone interested. 2nd Thursday, 6:30 p.m. Faulkner State Community College, Centennial Building (School St. and Fairhope Ave., Fairhope). 251-401-0008. www.escamera.org. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
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New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.
Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!
We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?
Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...
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1 & 2Week Sessions for Ages 6-16
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We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.
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IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
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54th Annual Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament Sponsored by Exxon-Mobil. The weigh station will be open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. with the tournament beginning at 5 a.m. This event is open to all anglers 15 years old and younger. The real purpose of the Roy Martin Tournament is to instill sportsmanship and a love of fishing in our young anglers. Every angler that weighs in a fish will receive a pair of tickets to a Mobile Bay Bears game, a hot dog, a bag of potato chips, a Coke, and ice cream. The proceeds will go toward the annual Children’s Christmas Shopping Tour sponsored by the Mobile Jaycees. The awards ceremony for the Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament will be held immediately following the tournament at the ADSFR site. Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament tickets will go on sale Thursday June 14th at the following locations: Academy Sports and Outdoors, Bay Bank, Quint’s Hardware & Sporting Goods, Greer’s Food Store, Jemison’s Bait & Tackle, Dauphin Island Marina, Sportsman’s Marine, Blue water Ships Store, and J&M Tackle. Ticket prices are$ 3 per angler. For more information, visit www.adsfr.com. LuLu’s Fresh Art Market See July 7 for details. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
Sunday, July 15
“Great Expectations” by Infirmary Health’s Women’sBest To help prepare expecting parents, Infirmary Health hosts two free mother-to-be events in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Expectant mothers, new mothers and hope-to-be moms, their friends and family are invited to Great Expectations, to be held at Thomas Hospital in the main lobby, from 1 to 4 p.m. Attendees have the opportunity to visit one-on-one with medical professionals, check out the finest baby products and find out about and register for premiere services. Some of the event highlights include relaxing mommy pampering, a maternity fashion show, car seat installations and amazing door prizes. For more information contact Jennifer Vellianitis in the Infirmary Health marketing communications department at 435-3912 or e-mail jennifer.vellianitis@infirmaryhealth.org. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com
K2, K3 and K4
$65 registration $190/month
Abeka Curriculum Field Trips
Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday – 8:20 am - 1:20 pm 18200 Highway 104 • 251-979-5621 75
Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
Family Calendar Monday, July 16
Fairhope Public Library Movie Monday How to Train Your Dragon. 2 p.m. 251.929.1465. www.fairhopelibrary.org.
Tuesday, July 17
IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
Wednesday, July 18
Growing Citrus on the Gulf Coast John Olive from the Auburn University Ornamental Horticulture Research Center will help us learn more about growing citrus and how to protect our citrus from pests and disease. 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Reservations Requested. Bellingrath Gardens Admission ($12.00 for adults & $ 6.50 for children 5-12) is charged for non-members attending programs. Call 251.973.2217 X 111 for reservations. Fairhope Public Library - Wednesday Entertainment 2 – 3 p.m. Loosen up with Eugenia Lanaux from Creative Outlet as she teaches different dance techniques. 251.929.1465. www. fairhopelibrary.org.
July2012
Fairhope Public Library: Teens and Tweens 4 – 5 p.m, Loosen up and prepare to relax with yoga! 251.929.1465. www.fairhopelibrary.org. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
Thursday, July 19
Daphne Public Library: Family Movie Night 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
Friday, July 20
Barnes & Noble: Leapfrog Tag Geography Relay Join us for a Leapfrog Event at Barnes & Noble at 5 p.m. Children ages 4 and up can take part in the Leapfrog Tag Geography Relay. This fun event will teach children teamwork and map skills while they learn the geography of the United States. Reserve your space on our in-store sign up sheet or call 251621-3545. Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam Feld Motor Sports announced today the
world’s most popular and spectacular monster truck series returns to the Mobile Civic Center, at 7:30 p.m., bigger and better than ever! Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam®, as seen on Speed Channel, will feature a widely popular monster truck lineup this year including the return of world champions Grave Digger and El Toro Loco, Advance Auto Parts Grinder, Monster Mutt Dalmatian, King Krunch and El Matador. Tickets are also available now at the Mobile Civic Center Box Office and all Ticketmaster outlets. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
Saturday, July 21
Fairhope Museum of History Tour of Historic Places in Fairhope Three tour times scheduled: 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m. Museum Director Donnie Barrett will conduct tours of historic places in downtown Fairhope. Tours will be conducted from an air-conditioned bus. Museum is located at 24 South Section St., Fairhope. (251) 929-1471. $10 Admission. Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam See July 20 for details. The Party in the Pits from 5:00-6:30 p.m.
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gives fans the opportunity to get a view of the trucks up close and meet the drivers of the massive monster trucks. Pit passes are available for free beginning at local Southern Ford Dealerships or they can be purchased through the box office. A Saturday, July 21 event ticket is required, along with pit party pass for entrance. LuLu’s Fresh Art Market See July 7 for details. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
HOLD A LIVE ALLIGATOR ON TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS! From 6-8PM at both locations!
Sunday, July 22
IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
Monday, July 23
Fairhope Public Library Movie Monday Peter Pan. 2 p.m. 251.929.1465. www.fairhopelibrary.org.
Tuesday, July 24
NGA Tour Pro-Am Hosted by Timber Creek Golf Club The NGA Tour Event at Timber Creek includes a full week of activities, including the Tuesday evening Pairings Party in conjunction with the Wednesday Pro-Am, an exciting Shootout event (Tuesday at 2 p.m.), and a free Junior Clinic (Tuesday, at 5 p.m.) featuring instruction from Tour Professionals. For avid golfers, the Wednesday Pro-Am (8:30 a.m. Shotgun) is the highlight of the week. Three amateurs team up with a Tour Professional in a Scramble Format and get a front row seat to world class golf. After play, Pro-Am participants are treated to a Long Drive Contest featuring the Tour’s biggest hitters. Thursday through Sunday is official tournament time. A field of 168 golfers will vie for the six figure tournament prize purse. The public is invited and admission is free of charge. For Sponsorship opportunities or more information, contact Rob Bradely (rob@golftimbercreek.com or 985-382-2361), TimberCreek Owner, or Andy Ray (andy@ golftimbercreek.com or 251-422-3297), Director of Golf. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
Rent out the Banquet Room for your party at the CAUSEWAY LOCATION ONLY!
Entertainment for Kids • Playground • Boat Dock • Private Room for Birthday Parties
3733 Battleship Pkwy • Mobile • 251-626-2188 Hwy 59 • Original Oyster House Boardwalk • 251-948-2445
FOLLOW US
www.originaloysterhouse.com
iphone
Wednesday, July 25
Plants & Gardens of China, Thailand and Vietnam Dr. Brenda Litchfield has recently returned from a six month teaching assignment in China. She will share information about plants
Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com
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and gardens she found on her travels in China, Thailand and Vietnam. 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Reservations Requested. Bellingrath Gardens Admission ($12.00 for adults & $ 6.50 for children 5-12) is charged for non-members attending programs. Call 251.973.2217 X 111 for reservations. Fairhope Public Library: Summer Reading Wrap Up 2 – 3 p.m. Bring your summer reading log and wear your favorite PJs and a pillow for an end of summer slumber party! We will have yummy S’mores and a viewing of the animated Where the Wild Things Are! 251.929.1465. www.fairhopelibrary.org. Fairhope Public Library: Tweens Wrap-up Party 3 - 4 p.m. Tweens can bring their summer reading logs to join in on slumber party madness with a viewing of Adam Sandler’s Bedtime Stories! 251.929.1465. www.fairhopelibrary.org. Fairhope Public Library: Teens Monster Bash Dress-up Party 4 – 5 p.m. Teens will end the summer program with a monster bash party. Come dressed-up as you favorite monster character! 251.929.1465. www.fairhopelibrary.org. NGA Tour Pro-Am hosted by Timber Creek Golf Club Tournament runs July 24 - 28. See July 24 for complete line-up of events. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
Thursday, July 26
Theatre 98 Production: Regrets Only July 26 -29, August 1-5. This comedy of Manhattan manners explores the topics of marriage, friendships and squandered riches. The setting: a Park Avenue penthouse. The players: a powerhouse attorney, his deliriously social wife and their closest friend, one of the world’s most staggeringly successful fashion designers. Add a daughter’s engagement, some major gowns, the president of the United States, and stir. Box office opens on the Monday of the week a production opens, 5:15-7:15 p.m. Monday-Saturday. To make a phone reservation, please leave a message with an evening phone number on the theatre voicemail (251-928-4366) and the box office ladies will call to confirm. Because seating at our theater is limited, we ask that you pay for your ticket within 24 hours of making the reservation. Corner of Morphy and Church Streets, Fairhope. 251-928-4366, www.theatre98.org. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details.
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“Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details. NGA Tour Pro-Am Hosted by Timber Creek Golf Club Tournament runs July 24 - 28. See July 24 for complete line-up of events.
Friday, July 27
Theatre 98 Production: Regrets Only See July 26 for details. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details. NGA Tour Pro-Am Hosted by Timber Creek Golf Club Tournament runs July 24 - 28. See July 24 for complete line-up of events.
Saturday, July 28
Meet Clifford the Big Red Dog in Person at Barnes and Noble 3 p.m. Barnes and Noble, Eastern Shore Centre, 30500 State Hwy 181, Spanish Fort, 251-621-3545, Barnes and Noble’s storytime. He’s a lovable dog and a friend of everyone! In honor of his visit to our store, we’ll read Clifford Takes a Trip by Norman Bridwell. Bring a camera and bring a friend! Crop for a Cure Crop for a Cure will be held from 9 a.m. ‘til 9 p.m. at Jubilee Baptist Church in Daphne. This event was a huge success last year! This year’s proceeds will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Classes will be offered along with door prizes, contests and a raffle. Registration is $50. Includes meals. Visit www.daphnecrop.blogspot.com for more information and registration form, or contact Jackie Barfield at 251-454-9545 for more information or to be a vendor. LuLu’s Fresh Art Market See July 7 for details. Theatre 98 Production: Regrets Only See July 26 for details. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details. NGA Tour Pro-Am hosted by Timber Creek Golf Club Tournament runs July 24 - 28. See July 24 for complete line-up of events.
Sunday, July 29
“Great Expectations” by Infirmary Health’s Women’sBest An event sponsored by Infirmary Health’s Women’sBest program for expectant mothers, new mothers and hope-to-be mothers that features pediatricians to answer questions, a maternity fashion
Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com
show, retail vendors, door prizes, car seat installations and birth center tours. Free and open to the public. Held in the atrium of Mobile Infirmary, from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information call 251-435-3500 or email infirmary.events@infirmaryhealth.org. Mobile Infirmary, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Contact: Jennifer Vellianitis- 435-3912 or jennifer. vellianitis@infirmaryhealth.org. Theatre 98 Production: Regrets Only See July 26 for details. IMAX Film: Tornado Alley See July 1 for details. “Strange Matter” at the Exploreum See July 1 for details.
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We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of these calendar events. However, you should call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.
Please send your calendar events to lynn@ easternshoreparents.com by the 15th of each month to be printed FREE in our Family Calendar! Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012
People Like Us
Brave
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: BSexual Content: C Language: D Alcohol / Drug Use: D The MPAA has rated People Like Us PG-13 for language, some drug use and brief sexuality. In a recent post, an advice columnist replied to a young person who discovered his father’s infidelity. She wrote, “This is your parents’ business, not yours…It’s best forgiven and forgotten by you.” I have to disagree. Marital cheating impacts more than the adults involved and if ever there were an argument against being unfaithful, People Like Us is it. Record producer Jerry Harper may be resting peacefully in his grave, but his life decisions continue to haunt those he left behind. Among the damaged mourners are his wife Lillian (Michelle Pfeiffer) and his estranged son Sam (Chris Pine). Inheriting his father’s extensive record collection seems like poor compensation for the young, fast-talking businessman who grew up with a distracted, distant dad. He was at least hoping for some cold, hard cash to help bail him out of his crushing debt. Instead his dad’s lawyer (Philip Baker Hall) hands Sam a shaving kit filled with wads of $100 bills and a note from his father instructing him to take the money to some kid he’s never heard of. It turns out Sam has a sister. Frankie (Elizabeth Banks), he discovers, is a struggling single mother with a precocious 11-year-old son named Josh (Michael Hall D’Addario) who just blew up the school’s swimming pool. Unsure how to introduce himself, Sam avoids that little nugget of truth. But this family’s penchant for lying hasn’t led to anything good in the past, nor will it now. This adult drama may be one of the first films to explore infidelity from the point of view of the children and isn’t always pretty. Secrets, emotional avoidance and abandonment are the foundations this family is built on. Moving beyond them is painful and sometimes overplayed with sentiment. While the characters’ growth is admirable, many of the activities they engage in aren’t. Based loosely on the life experiences of Director Alex Kurtzman (Star Trek, Transformers, Mission Impossible III), this script follows a family whose dysfunctional history seems destined to be repeated unless they chose to leave the past behind.
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: C Sexual Content: B Language: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B+ The MPAA has rated Brave PG for some scary action and rude humor. From her infancy, Merida (voice by Kelly Macdonald) has been groomed for the role of a royal by her mother, the stately Queen Elinor (voice by Emma Thompson). But Merida chaffs under the imposed restrictions of etiquette and embroidery skills. She prefers to race through the woods shooting arrows at targets suspended along the path. The clash of ideals between parent and child peaks when Merida discovers she is about to be betrothed to the man who wins an archery competition. To be fair, the trio vying for her hand is the most unsuitable bunch of suitors ever assembled and only by sheer dumb luck does one of them manage to hit the bull’s eye. However, Merida isn’t about to let a fluke determine her future. Defying her mother’s orders, she fires off an arrow that neatly splices the winning shaft into pieces. The rebellious act results in a war of words that sends Merida fleeing into the woods. There, in the dark recesses of the forest, she stumbles upon a woodcarving witch (voice by Julie Waters) who supplies her with a potent spell. In moment of impetuosity, Merida uses the magic charm on her mother. (This kind of impulsiveness is what gives redheads a reputation for having hotheaded tempers.) Unfortunately, the consequences for her act are unbearable, but to undo it will take more than a steady aim and sure shot. With three rowdy little brothers and a rather ineffective father, she and her mother are the powerhouses in this female-centric film. And while the tension in their relationship is one other moms and girls may relate to, the threats aimed at these main characters and the frequent use of weapons may be too intense for younger viewers. As well, the film contains several frightening scenes played out on the big screen in 3D splendor. Merida may be Pixar’s latest addition to the Disney stable of princesses, but she is far spunkier than the original fairytale royals. She also isn’t waiting around for a Prince Charming to whisk her away. This storyline reflects a far more contemporary take on female independence where women decide not only whom they will marry, but if. While that is a great step forward in Merida’s mind, it doesn’t happen until both this mother and daughter learn the value of listening.
What Parents need to know about People Like Us...
Violence: A woman slaps her adult son. A child steals a chemical and blows up a swimming pool. He is later pushed to the ground and threatened by classmates. A child is expelled after breaking another student’s nose with a textbook. A woman hits a man repeatedly before throwing him out of her apartment. A man has a verbal argument with his girlfriend. Sexual Content: A woman wears low cut tops and short skirts. She admits to sleeping with many unnamed men and not knowing the identity of her child’s father. A character has casual sex with a neighbor as a way to deal with stress. A child makes several sexual comments about an older female teen. Language: The script includes anatomical and crude terms. A strong sexual expletive and crude hand gesture are used by children. Frequent profanities, scatological slang and numerous terms of Deity are heard. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters use medicinal marijuana for recreational purposes in several scenes. Characters discuss their additions at a support group meeting. Alcohol use is depicted in numerous scenes. Eastern Shore Parents I July 2012 80
What Parents need to know about Brave...
Violence: The frequent use of bows and arrows are shown. A character attacks a bedpost with a sword. A bear threatens a family and is attacked with weapons. A man loses his leg in the battle. During a fistfight, characters bite, pinch, head butt, poke eyes and use objects to hit one another. Characters break out in a brawl, firing arrows and throwing axes at each other. A girl falls through a roof. Characters are threatened and chased by an animal. A bear is shot repeatedly. He is shown with arrows hanging from his back. A character is smashed by a large rock. People engage in swordfights. Sexual Content: A young character dives into a woman’s bosom to retrieve a key. Animated, male buttock nudity is shown in a non-sexual context. A man raises his kilt and moons his competitors (no nudity is seen). Language: Some name-calling is included in the script. Other: Characters are changed by a spell. A woman practices the dark arts. Advertising: 251-929-2099
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