Eastern Shore Parents Magazine June 2016 by KeepSharing

Give kids like Jordan every chance to be a kid again.

PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE THE MIRACLES ARE.

JORDAN, 5 YEARS OLD VEIN OF GALEN MALFORMATION PATIENT

Thanks to the expert care and research at her hospital, Jordan survived a serious vein malformation at birth that caused blood to rush directly to her heart. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® donations helped fund the developments and devices used in her treatment and surgeries. Today, Jordan is full of energy and loves to be in the spotlight, dancing and charming everyone she meets. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals raises funds and awareness for 170 member hospitals that provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the U.S. and Canada. Donations stay local to fund critical treatments, pediatric medical equipment and charitable care. Find out why children’s hospitals need community support to help kids like Jordan and identify your member hospital at CMNHospitals.org and facebook.com/CMNHospitals.

Give Today

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June2016 46

Volume 9 Number 1

Columns

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

8 Living With Children

What Dads Do Best

Be reminded of how fathers offer a perfect balance to moms in their parenting style.

John Rosemond

Engage Your Kids in Summer Learning

15 fun ways to teach your kids while enjoying summer together.

16 Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

42 Dave Says Dave Ramsey

44 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

50 Parenting Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Teens Mark Gregston

2016 Summer Fun

Our listing leads you to fun activities throughout the Eastern Shore this summer!

Co-Parent Successfully

Find out how to work as a team with your ex-spouse for the benefit of your kids.

56 Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

78 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

On The Cover Sam Roach (7) is the son of Meredith and John Roach of Fairhope. Sam enjoys playing tennis, baseball and flag football. He loves building legos and riding bikes with his little brother, Will (5). Sam is really looking forward to fishing this summer and SEC football in the fall.

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 18 School Bits 80 Family Calendar 88 Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Publisher’sNote I recently had to go out of town for a few days, leaving Brad and the girls alone. It was an unexpected trip in which I had to leave pretty quickly, with no real time to plan. Of course, it was a crazy time to be short-handed around the house too. With all of the end of year activities the girls were involved in, Brad found himself burning up the road taking children from one activity/rehearsal to the next, sometimes having to manage being in two places at once. I knew he could handle it though, no question. It is sad how our current culture often portrays dads, showing them as men who don’t know how to wash laundry or maneuver through the carpool line. Truth be told, dads are more involved in the day to day care of the family than ever before. With so many two income families, parents are required to run the household together, and dads realize they want to be more involved in the daily activities of their children’s lives. Despite the increased involvement, we moms still tend to think our way is the best way. Brad and I have discussions over the proper way to load the dishwasher and how a towel should be folded. The conversation usually ends with him asking why his way is wrong and my way is right, and honestly, I usually don’t have an answer. My mom told me years ago that just because he is not doing it my way, does not mean it is wrong. She encouraged me to be thankful for the help and make sure he knows I appreciate him. Mom is right. The dishes get just as clean and the towels are just as dry no matter who does them. In this month’s article, What Dads Do Best, Heidi Luedtke sheds even more light on this topic. It is a wonderful celebration of some of the things dads typically do better than moms. Just like the article states, there are many things Brad does so much better than I do. Brad is great about giving the girls independence. He is good about knowing what they are capable of and challenging them. Just recently we pulled up to the store and he gave the girls some money and a list and told them to go inside and get the groceries. I pushed back with, “They don’t know where anything is. What if they get the wrong brands?” His response was, “They will figure it out.” And they did! Not only did they navigate through the store independently, but they were so proud of themselves. Now I wouldn’t send in a young child alone, but as Brad reminded me, one of them will be driving in six months, so it is probably time for me to loosen these apron strings a bit. Brad is also good about introducing the girls to new interests and skills like gardening, working with tools to accomplish minor fix-its around the house, and other important life skills, especially now that they are getting older. Whether your children are toddlers or teens, summer is the perfect time to explore new interests and engage children in learning through play. Gulf Coast writer and mom Mandy Fernandez provides some terrific activities in this month’s article, Engage Kids in Learning During Summer Months. For even more family-friendly activities, make sure you check out our Family Calendar where you will find farmers markets, movies in the park, charity events and much more! We have also included our VBS Guide that is filled with Vacation Bible Schools hosted by local churches. While there are so many exciting activities to enjoy this summer, make sure you also take some time to kick back, relax and enjoy some down time with your family. To Brad, my dad, Big Pop and all the other dads, Happy Father’s Day!

Lynn lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Christa Weinberg Contributing Writers

Mandy B. Fernandez Mark Gregston Carolyn Jabs Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. Dave Ramsey Laura Lyles Reagan, MS John Rosemond Robert L. Rux, M.D. Gerry Paige Smith

Cover Photography Janel Gay www.janelgayphotography.com

President Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com Advertising Opportunities Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall Traci Calvert Danielle Nicholas ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099 Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us online at www.easternshoreparents.com Eastern Shore Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 374, Montrose, Alabama, 36559. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 929-2099. Eastern Shore Parents is copyrighted 2015 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Eastern Shore Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Sleepovers Need Basic Parameters Q:

My husband and I have decided that we do not want our children to participate in sleep-overs. We recently moved to a new community and are just making new friends and meeting new families. All of these parents, it seems, love to do sleep-overs. We, however, are sticking by our guns. As a result, our kids are beginning to feel left out. What should I say to these other parents who think we’re crazy and their children who are making mine feel bad about it?

A: You never told me why you are so strongly opposed to sleep-overs. That suggests—but maybe I’m just playing psychologist here—that you think your objections are self-evident. If that’s the case, they are not self-evident to yours truly. I have heard of problematic situations that arose during sleep-overs, but I fail to see the basis for a sweeping indictment. In my (naïve?) estimation, the issue is not sleepovers per se; the issue is how well a given sleep-over is managed by the supervising parents. Before letting a child attend a sleepover, a finite set of “givens” should exist: First,

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

you are more than just slightly familiar with the host parents and know them to be conscientious, responsible people; second, that they know how to quickly get in touch with you should that become necessary; third, that the sleep-over will be attended by only one gender; fourth, that siblings, especially if they are older than the attendees, will be kept at a distance (ideally, farmed out for the evening). Your concern hints at a tendency to want to control everything that happens in your children’s lives. That’s called micromanagement and I would be remiss if I failed to point out that parental micromanagement always, without exception, creates huge problems of one sort or another in the long run. The problem is that micromanaging parents always, without exception, justify their anxietydriven over-control. They also tend to think apocalyptically, as in, “If I let my child attend a sleep-over, some other child who comes from a family that does not share our beliefs may permanently corrupt my child’s values.”

In short, the fears that lie behind micromanagement are rarely realistic. Plus, the parents in question fail to accept that they are not omnipotent, that try as hard as they might, they simply cannot control everything that happens in their kids’ lives. When my wife and I were in our active parenting years, we would purposefully allow our children to get themselves entangled in certain problematic situations that we could have prevented. In other words, we managed risk for the purpose of helping our children learn, by trial and error, how to keep themselves out of trouble. The result was win-win: the kids enjoyed a good amount of freedom and we enjoyed the peace of mind of knowing that they were steadily coming to grips with the relationship between freedom and responsibility. Some lessons cannot be “talked into” a person. Anyway, concerning this sleep-over issue, I’d take a deep breath and give it a go. Sounds like your kids need a break from your oversight. It also sounds like you and your husband could do with some parenting freedom as well. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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After Dark Smoke on the Coast Food & Fireworks Festival

4th Annual Crawfish Bash

The 4th Annual Crawfish Bash hosted by the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce will be held on Friday, June 10 from 5 – 8 p.m. at a new location this year, Blackburn Park in Bay Minette. Join us to officially kick off summer with crawfish, corn, potatoes, cold drinks, music and more! Bring the kids and enjoy the afternoon as there will be inflatables and other kids' games too! Tickets for the event are $20 per person and include all food and non-alcoholic beverages. Kids 10 and under are free with a paying adult - limit two kids per adult. Tickets can be purchased through the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, call 251-937-5665 or email assist@northbaldwinchamber.com for more information.

Spanish Fort Town Center is hosting the first Smoke on the Coast event this year. Join us for food, fun, live music, entertainment, and a fireworks display at 9:00 p.m.! In addition to Town Center Park and its many, familyfriendly amenities, there will be a Kids Zone at Smoke on the Coast, with tons of entertainment for all ages! 29000 Bass Pro Drive, Spanish Fort, Saturday, July 2, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

City of Fairhope’s Outdoor Farmer’s Market

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10th Annual Illuminating Autism FUNraiser

The City of Fairhope will host a Summer Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings from now through July 7. The market will be set up behind the Fairhope Public Library in downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street. The market will feature local farmers, bakers, fresh Baldwin County produce, fresh cut flowers, local honey, plants, baked goods and pet adoptions with The Haven. The Fairhope Public Library will hold story times and children’s activities at 4 p.m. each Thursday at the market. For general information please call 251-929-1466.

High Hopes 4 Autism is excited to announce the 9th annual Illuminating Autism FUNraiser. This exciting event will be held June 3-5 at Pirate's Cove, Josephine, AL. Activities include live music, a silent auction, and this year 2 JEEP draw downs! This year's FUNraiser has another great music lineup. Draw Down tickets can be purchased at Pirates Cove, online and from volunteers. All proceeds benefit High Hopes located in Elberta. For more information or to purchase draw down tickets visit www.highhopes4autism.org.

Distinguished Young Women 2016

The Distinguished Young Women is a national scholarship program that inspires high school girls to develop their full, individual potential through a fun, transformative experience that culminates in a celebratory showcase of their accomplishments. Each year the 51 state representatives, including Washington DC, travel to Mobile, the June after their high school graduation to take part in the Distinguished Young Women National Finals. They spend two weeks getting to know girls from around the country, enjoying fun events, volunteering in the local community, developing Life Skills for college and beyond, rehearsing for the final showcase and performing on stage during our National Finals webcast. 2016 dates are June 23-25 with 1st Preliminaries on Thursday June 23, 2nd Preliminaries on Friday, June 24 and Finals Night on Saturday, June 25. For more information, please visit www.distinguishedyw.org. Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

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SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes”

The University of Alabama’s professional summer theatre, SummerTide, will bring a “heatwave” to Gulf Shores during its 13thseason. The cast of SummerTide will present “The Marvelous Wonderettes”, the Off-Broadway hit musical by Roger Bean. Celebrate the 1958 Springfield High School prom with the Wonderettes, four girls with hopes and dreams as big as their crinoline skirts! As we learn about their lives and loves, we are treated to the girls performing such classic ‘50s and ‘60s songs as “Lollipop,” “Dream Lover,” “Stupid Cupid,” “Lipstick on Your Collar,” “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me,” “It’s My Party,” and over 20 other classic hits! Ring of Fire director Stacy Alley returns this summer to direct the production. “I have wanted to share this hilarious show with the Gulf Shores community for a few years now and this seems like the perfect time to do so!” Alley hopes the show will bring back wonderful memories for most of the audience and expose a younger generation to the fun songs. “The Marvelous Wonderettes” will run June 3 to July 1, at the George C. Meyer Performing Arts Center. Tickets are available for purchase at SummerTide.org or by calling the George C. Meyer Performing Arts Center box office after May 23 at 251.968.6721.

Wales West Great Train Robbery

Are you ready for a Wild West interactive adventure, with train rides, cowboys, horses, and family fun? Then it’s time to join us at Wales West Light Railway for the “great train robbery”! Climb aboard for a ride on the Big Steam Train! But watch out for the Beaver Gulch Gang, who notoriously ride up on horses and steal the Wales West payroll. But the Sheriff deputizes the youngsters—complete with free badge and cowboy hat—to help catch these no-good owl-hoots! The Great Train Robbery takes place every Saturday and Sunday from 10 to 4, May 28 through June 19! Admission is $15 per person (2 and under are free). Enjoy a Mini Train Ride, a Hay Ride, Bounce House, Outlaw Blaster, Pony Ride, Petting Zoo, and more! Some activities require a small additional fee. Head out to Wales West Light Railway, on County Road 9, near Silverhill! Information and directions are available online at waleswest dot com, or by calling 888-569-5337.

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Family Promise hosts Boston Butt Sale

Family Promise of Baldwin County, a homeless shelter program for families with children, is hosting their annual Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Boston Butt Sale to raise money for program operations. Tickets are on sale now and pick up date will be on Saturday. June 18th from 9 a.m. to noon at one of the locations nearest you: United Way in Foley, Trinity Presbyterian Church in Fairhope, M & M Bank in Gulf Shores, or Daphne United Methodist Church in Daphne. Boston Butts are on sale for $35 and tickets can be purchased from our website at www. familypromisebc.org or by calling us at 251-947-5641. Family Promise of Baldwin County is a community response to the issue of homelessness in Baldwin County, specifically homeless families with children. The Baldwin County School System counted 642 homeless school age children in school last year. The mission of Family Promise of Baldwin County is to provide temporary shelter, related services and nurturing support to homeless families with children and to assist them with obtaining suitable and permanent housing.

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Exceptional Arts Live Auction

The colorful "Exceptional Grace" piano was an exciting conclusion to another memorable Exceptional Arts live auction held April 28th at the Foundation. Proceeds from the fund-raising event benefited the Exceptional Foundation Gulf Coast, a non-profit organization dedicated to meeting the social, recreational & artistic needs of developmentally and physically challenged individuals. Over 400 guests enjoyed "tastings" from local restaurants & breweries and music by Neil Dover, while shopping for unique art pieces created throughout the year by EFGC participants. Pictured with their masterpiece are artists, Michael Graham, Kelby Sanders, Kelley Lyons, and Stephen Commander.

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7th Annual Children's Cup Regatta Benefits Local Patients

The seventh annual Children’s Cup Regatta sets sail on June 11, to benefit patients from the Alabama Gulf Coast treated at Children’s of Alabama. Sailing enthusiasts and friends in Mobile and Baldwin counties are invited to enjoy a day of sailboat racing at the Fairhope Yacht Club, located at 101 Volanta Ave. New to this year’s events are the kayak races. The 1-mile Fun Paddle begins at 9 a.m. and the 2-mile competitive races begin at 10 a.m. A family-friendly event, guests are invited to watch the races free-of-charge beginning at 12:30 p.m. The kids’ activity area opens at 4 p.m. and features a waterslide, arts and crafts, games, and more. Throughout the afternoon, guests can bid on silent auction items and enjoy barbecue plates, a cash bar, and live music. The awards ceremony begins at 7 p.m. The entry fee for Performance Handicap Racing Fleet, Portsmouth, Rhodes 19 and Catalina 22 is $50 per boat. Youth Class entry fee is $25 per boat. A few boats will be available to take former Children’s of Alabama patients out to watch the sailing action close-up. The youth portion of the Children’s Cup Regatta is known as “Katie’s Cup Youth Regatta” in honor of Katie Hamlin of Fairhope. As a 16-year-old Bayside Academy honor student and soccer player, Katie was diagnosed with a possible staph infection in May 2009. After falling sick a few weeks later, she was induced into a coma and put on a ventilator. She was diagnosed with acute respiratory distress syndrome and transferred to Children’s of Alabama. After seven months of treatment, Katie was able to return home and is now a walking, talking miracle. Katie will be in attendance at this year’s Regatta. For more information or to register online, visit http://give.childrensal.org/regatta2016, or call Kerrie Benson at (251) 610-4969. Event updates will be posted regularly to facebook.com/ChildrensCupRegatta. Day-of registration is available from 9-10:30 a.m. on June 11 at the Fairhope Yacht Club.

4th of July at Battleship Memorial Park

Celebrate the 4th of July with the City of Mobile at Battleship Memorial Park. Enjoy live musical entertainment including our traditional patriotic concert, food from the Battleship’s Galley, and a dynamic fireworks show. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. The Park opens to spectators at 5 p.m. and the fireworks show is scheduled for 9 p.m. Admission is $5 per car. No food, alcoholic beverages or personal fireworks are allowed inside the Park. Sponsored by The City of Mobile, AL.COM, and the USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park. For more information call 251-433-2703.

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Original Oyster House Announces Chelsea Garvin Spirit Scholarship Winners

The Original Oyster House awarded Madeline Laurendine of Foley High School and Ashlie Cline of Fairhope High School the 11th Annual Chelsea Garvin Spirit Award Scholarships. Chelsea Garvin was a 2004 graduate of Fairhope High School, a Fish River Fire Department volunteer, an Original Oyster House employee and a talented artist whose life was cut short in a boating accident in 2005. The scholarship winners reflect Chelsea’s spirit in their artwork and in their reason for applying. Since 2006, the Original Oyster House has awarded two $1,000 Chelsea Garvin Spirit Award scholarships to senior high school students of Baldwin County. The scholarship opportunity is not based on financial need, but rather academics, being involved in community arts and submitting artwork that reflects the culture of the well-loved iconic seafood restaurant as well as the spirit of Chelsea. “I have always known that I would go to college to be a nurse for a long time now. What drew me to nursing is that I would have the opportunity to inspire people and be Christ's hands and feet. When I started looking at colleges it appalled me at how much college costs. Whenever I have time I paint and I have sold a few canvases. I have tried to apply for as many scholarships as possible and God has blessed me. When I found out about this scholarship I immediately went to work pouring my heart and soul into this painting because I would have the opportunity to help my parents pay for college even more. In the mist of painting I struggled to find my boat a name. When I read more on the scholarship I found that it was in memory of Chelsea Garvin. It seemed very fitting to name the boat the Chelsea. I read how sweet and caring she was and it is just an honor to be considered as someone who could potentially represent her name, “Laurendine recounted. Cline stated, “My parents will have three children in college in the fall of 2016 and four children in college in the fall of 2017. It has been a huge goal of mine to help out with expenses through scholarships and saving money that I make working. I am ready to start my next chapter at Auburn University and I cannot wait to see what is in store for me this upcoming fall.” The winning artworks will be displayed in both Original Oyster House restaurants for local patrons and visitors from all over the country to enjoy. The winners will also be given restaurant gift certificates to see first-hand their artwork displayed with family and friends.

GulfQuest presents Inaugural Race to the River

GulfQuest is pleased to announce the inaugural Race to the River, a 5K and Family Fun Run, on Saturday, June 18, to benefit the museum. While the start and finish lines for the 5K Run and Family Fun Run will be at Ft. Conde Village, the post-race activities, including the awards ceremony, will take place along the river in front of GulfQuest. Those festivities will include live music and refreshments, including a local favorite—shrimp and grits, provided by The Galley (GulfQuest’s café)—plus door prizes. All registered race and fun run participants will be entered to win door prizes that include a GulfQuest Family Membership and a child’s GulfQuest birthday party. To register for Race to the River, visit www.gulfquest.org. Race applications are also available at McCoy Outdoor, RunN-Tri or Fleet Feet in Mobile, Running Wild in Fairhope, and at GulfQuest. For more information, email mbeasley@ gulfquest.org, or call 251-202-6306.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

No Diving in the Shallow End Hey guys, it’s getting warmer and that means we come to the summer in Baldwin County and the enjoyment of the beautiful water. But with the fun comes some responsibility to prevent accidents for kids. Today we will talk about water safety around your house, the pool, and on a boat. One area of water safety that is always overlooked is sources of water, and therefore potential injuries, around the house. Kiddie pools, buckets, overturned trash can tops, old tires; basically anything can be a receptacle for water. And it only takes a few inches of water for an infant or toddler to fall in and drown. The most important thing to do is walk around your house and property often to pour out these sources, especially after a rain (this also helps prevent mosquitoes!). And watch the neighbors as well; a kiddie pool can be left out and be very attractive to your toddler. The other area around your house or neighborhood that is potentially dangerous is swimming pools. Let’s review some safety

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

tips. Always know where your children are. I can’t stress this enough. Most accidents occur when children are “being supervised,” but end up near the pool unexpectedly. And over 75% of submersion injuries occur between ages 1 and 3 years old. Be sure that either your pool or the neighbor’s has a locked gate with limited access. Also, if you have a door that opens onto the pool deck, install an alarm that will sound if the door is opened without you knowing. If you have babysitters, be sure that they can swim and know CPR. Remove all chemicals and equipment from the pool area during playtime and remove all toys from the grounds when not in use. A fun toy can be very appealing and therefore dangerous to a toddler near the pool. Be sure to have flotation devices available for all swimmers, but they cannot be relied upon to keep the kids safe, even for just a second. Boating is a great activity to do with your family, but please consider these words of advice. Make sure all persons (young and old) are fitted with approved life jackets.

Even the most experienced boater or sailor can capsize and/or fall overboard. Be sure that a licensed boater handles the watercraft at all times and understands the markers in the bay and near piers. The last question I get often is, “When can I take my infant on a boat?” Well, the answer depends on a lot of things. Be sure the water temperature is not too cold and that the area of boating is very smooth with minimal waves. Of course, make sure to cover your infant with sunscreen and a hat and bring along extra sunscreen. Also, it is an Alabama state law that every child under the age of eight wears an approved life jacket, even for young infants. And, have an adult assigned to the child at all times. So the answer is 1) when the conditions are right, 2) all safety precautions have been met, and 3) when you are comfortable with your child being there. As always, have fun this summer, but do it responsibly. 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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Autauga County Schools

Special Pops Prom Held in Loxley

Bay Minette Field Day Fun

Oh what a night! The Baldwin County Special Pops Prom was held Saturday, April 30, at the Loxley Civic Center. Some very special students from across Baldwin County – and their escorts -- were treated to a night to remember. The theme was “A Red Carpet Affair: Because Some Stars Shine Brighter Than Others.” Sponsors included: Kona Ice, Bay Minette Kiwanis Club, Standard Furniture, Bay Minette Rotary Club, North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, Delta Realty (Mark Frenette), United Bank, Heritage Junior Women’s Club, Baldwin County High School Key Club, Hadley Law Firm, Publix, Glass Orthodontics, Jason Young Insurance, Norris Funeral Home, Robertsdale High School SIS Club, Walmart in Robertsdale and Bay Minette. Coordinating the annual event were Michelle J. Hall, Becky Ganey and Cloi Vinson.

Bay Minette Elementary School held its annual Field Day on Monday and students competed in all sorts of fun activities including tug-of-war, the javelin toss and relay games. There were also some water slides that were super popular! Activities were coordinated by PE Coaches David Powell and Jamie McGowin with the support of numerous parent and student volunteers.

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Orange Beach ES Students Win Award in Public Library Poetry Contest

Fairhope HS Students Selected to Compete in Fashion Week Design Competition

Congratulations OBES students for participating and winning an award in the Orange Beach Public Library Poetry Contest. Pictured left to right: Shawn Coleman White, Libby Tierce, Elle Minish, Ellie McGowan, Sarah Claire Carswell, and Emma Steed.

Fairhope High Fashion Teacher, Dianne Bernasconi, is proud to announce that Dimi Pitsios, Elise Terral, and Katelyn Tarr have been selected to compete in the Birmingham Fashion Week Rising Star avant garde design competition. This is the third consecutive year that Fairhope High is invited to compete in this regional competition! The girls will complete their designs over summer, and the designs will be on display in Birmingham in August!

Special Olympics Send-off at Daphne East Elementary

Daphne East Elementary has a longstanding tradition of our entire school sending off our students that will compete in the Special Olympics (held on Friday, April 29th this year). All of the faculty and staff lined the front driveway on both sides with banners and shakers and the competing students paraded through while a little fun music played until they reach the bus. This year the Daphne Fire Department led the way for the buses all the way to the site of the competition! Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

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2016-2017 Fairhope Middle School Cheerleading Squad Congratulations to the 2016-2017 Fairhope Middle School cheerleading squad! The squad is under the direction of Mrs. Ashley Lathan, 7th grade FMS math teacher. Pictured left to right: Mary-Katherine Carrick, Ella Prewett, Hailey Minchew, Lizzy Brown, Ellie Rockwell, Piper Henley, Elle Miner, Molly Walding, Savannah Smith, Leah Kathryn Peacock, Anna Grace Johnson, Libby Kate Waters, Kate Bezeredi, Reagan Dykes, Paulette Millette, Chloe Northcutt.

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Elberta Chess Team Places 2nd in County Chess Tournament

Elberta Chess team won 2nd place in the PJ County Chess Tournament this year. Our 3rd â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5th grade students who participated did very well. In the novice category Adan Ramey finished 5th, Grace James finished 4th, Morgan Fowler finished 2nd and Wyatt Suddeth won 1st. In the intermediate category Joshua Cotton placed 1st. The rest of the team, Michael Wilkins, Gavin Havner, Caden Ford, Sylvan Policelli, Alli Belle Smith, Kevin Jones, and Harris Dunlavy all earned points to support the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overall 2nd place win!

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Autauga County Schools

BCHS Student to Attend Leadership/ Citizenship Programs at U. of Alabama

Spring has Arrived at Gulf Shores MS!

Through donations of the South Baldwin Center for Technology's Agriscience Department, Bonnie Plant Farm, Gulf Shores Garden Club, and students, plants are being added to the raised beds at Gulf Shores Middle School. These beds were built by the City of Gulf Shores Landscape Department a few years ago. Students from Mrs. Butler's, Ms. Osborn's, and Mrs. McGatha's STRIVE classes are working together to establish a garden area and a butterfly habitat for the school. Soon, they also hope to plant herbs and trees. They are also planning to tidy the courtyard and enhance the area with colorful plants. The students are enjoying hands-on work that improves their school, and we are all grateful for the support from our community!

Maggie Diehl has been selected as the Baldwin County High School representative for Girls State. Boys State and Girls State are summer leadership and citizenship programs sponsored by The American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary for high school juniors. She will attend June conference on the campus of the University of Alabama. American Legion Auxiliary Girls State is a nonpartisan program that teaches young women responsible citizenship and love for God and Country. Since the inception of the Girls State program in 1937, nearly one million young people have had the opportunity to learn first-hand how their state and local government works. Participants learn how to participate in the functioning of their state's government in preparation for their future roles as responsible adult citizens. Girls State is intended for the most outstanding girls, from the standpoint of leadership, character, and scholarship in the high schools. Here she is congratulated by BCHS Principal Craig Smith.

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HOBY Leadership Student Selected at Spanish Fort HS Reilly Vought, 10th grader at Spanish Fort High School, was selected to attend the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership Conference at Troy University from May 27-29. HOBY is an organization dedicated to training and nurturing the young leaders of tomorrow. Its mission is to provide lifelong leadership development opportunities that empower youth to achieve their highest potential.

T-Shirt Sales Bring Donation to Orange Beach Elementary

The Orange Beach Store this month presented its first donation to Orange Beach Elementary on sales of the new "Local" shirt with a check for $1500. All profits from the fun orange tee will benefit OBES, where children are allowed to wear it to school on Fridays. The Orange Beach Store opened its new flagship location in The Commons off Canal Road after a webstore grand opening online earlier this spring. "For five years, the Fairhope Store has partnered with schools in a mutual embrace," said owner Lisette Normann. "It was a natural here in Orange Beach as well - as schools clearly are the heart of this community. We'd love nothing more than to give tens of thousands to OBES." Pictured left to right: OBES Assistant Principal Cendy Hart, Anderson Buckner, Georgia McInnis, Lillie McInnis, Anna Kathryn Bradford, Molly Reese and Orange Beach Store owner Lisette Normann.

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Autauga County Schools

Bayside Academy Holds 2016 Commencement

Bayside Academy celebrated it's 2016 Commencement Program on Sunday evening, May 15, on the Bluff. Sixty-seven seniors graduated and will attend 28 different institutions of higher education.

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Synergizing With Technology at Gulf Shores ES

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In Mrs. Tammy Shirley's first grade class, the students have been researching inventors and inventions. They used a graphic organizer and their iPads to research their inventor and the invention. Some of the inventors were Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison, and Orville and Wilbur Wright. Then, they synergized with Mrs. Kelly Nelson's fifth grade class who taught the first grade students how to make a Keynote presentation. The students have enjoyed researching, learning, and collaborating together. The presentations were extremely impressive. It was a great win-win for all. Pictured l to r are CR Price and John Turbeville.

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Robertsdale Elementary STEM

Third grade students from Robertsdale Elementary are enjoying a STEM activity entitled "Levitating Magnets." In this experiment students had to determine what properties help to levitate magnets. Shown in the picture are: Jerzi Ackerman, Kyra Goodwin and Kenya Landeros.

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Bay Minette Middle School Wins Battle of the Books

Bay Minette Middle School held on to the bragging rights as the winners of the fifth annual "Battle of the Books" competition, held recently at Baldwin County High School Library. Delta Elementary won in the inaugural battle in 2012 and again in 2014. Bay Minette Middle previously won in 2013 and 2015. Rounding out the winners included: Delta Elementary, second; Bay Minette Intermediate, third place; and Perdido School, fourth place. Their team sponsors include Kathy Wright, BMMS; Kathy Weatherford, Delta; Gail Richerson, BMIS and Trachy Miller, Perdido. The North Baldwin Battle of the Books is an annual reading competition open to all fifth to eighth grade students in the Baldwin County High School feeder pattern. Participating schools read chapter books provided by a grant from the North Baldwin Coalition for Excellence in Education. This year's titles included "The Lose Heir"; “Theodore Boone: The Abduction”; “Mr. Tucket” and “Number the Stars”. Throughout the school year, the students discuss and study these books in relation to genre, plot, setting, theme, characterization. The students also learn about literary elements such as similar, metaphor, personification, idiom and point of view. The librarians at the schools provide the teams with coaching sessions during the school day and also set up a Moodle site for students to do on-line assignments outside of school. To be a member of the school's Battle of the Books team, the students must take personal initiative to do the preparation work in addition to classroom studies, organizers said. All that hard work culminates in the rapid-fire question and answer competition held each spring at Baldwin County High School Library. Students must answer questions involving literacy skills, vocabulary and character pop-up questions. Trachy Miller, who helps coordinate the Battle of the Books, praised all the participants and local businesses who support this annual event. She said all participating students receive a Battle of the Books t-shirt, an individual reading medal, enjoy a picnic lunch, and are treated to an afternoon of skating on competition day. In addition to NBCEE, additional Battle of the Books sponsors include Perdido School PTO, Piggly Wiggly in Bay Minette, Stockton Five Arts Club, Strickland Orthodontics, and Tillery & Tyrell, DMD. She also extended thanks to Ronda Campbell and Betsy Long at the BCHS library who assist with the project each year. Judges included Joanna Bailey, Director of Bay Minette Public Library; Tina Covington, North Baldwin Coalition for Excellence in Education; and David Cox, Baldwin County School Board.

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Autauga County Schools

Bayshore Baseball Team Places First in Region, Second in Conference

Congratulations to the Bayshore Christian School baseball team for placing First in the Region and Second in the Conference at the Panhandle Christian Conference Tournament. Participating in only its second year of competition, this team joined together to pull out some close wins against tough teams. They went 8-0 in regular season conference play, and 15-3 for the season. This young team, consisting of 4 starting 8th graders and 1 starting 7th grader, has a bright future ahead of them. They are looking forward to off-season training in preparation for next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s competition. Pictured from left to right Back Row: Coach Jeff Hauge, Coach Don Ruble, Max Jones, Trevor Thrasher, Ollen Brown, Iain Rhodes, Fletcher Williams, Hunter Hardy, Bryant Brock, Charlie Brock, Coach Rick Pierce, Coach Michael Brock. Front Row: Lane Wilkinson, Will Stephens, Luke Werneth, Sam Malone, Ellis Hope, Nathan Vincent, Garris Adamson, and Miles Thomas.

National Elementary Honor Society at BMIS

Bay Minette Intermediate School welcomed new National Elementary Honor Society members with an induction ceremony and reception recently. Representative, Harry Shiver, spoke to the group about the four pillars of NEHS which are service, scholarship, responsibility, and leadership. The 2015-16 members had the honor of pinning the 2016-17 inductees. The National Elementary Honor Society is very active in a variety of school and community projects during the year. Pictured l-r: The 2016-17 new NEHS inductees front: Teacher sponsor Heather Sims, Tucker Brown, Delaney Faircloth, Jillian Dute, Amber Stacey, Allison Smith, Will Roley, Langston Lewis, Eliza Lambert, Brayden Allen, representative Harry Shiver, and teacher sponsor Starla Sellers. Back: Principal Dr. Abby Hamilton, Landon Earl, Kirk Emmons, Hannah White, Sam Day, Luke Aplin, Kierra Means, and Jada Gregson.

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Newton Teacher Named Baldwin County Reading Teacher of the Year

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Congratulations to Susan Clinton, sixth grade reading teacher at J. Larry Newton School, for her recognition by the Baldwin County Reading Council as the 2016 Reading Teacher of the Year! The council is the local affiliate of both the Alabama Reading Association and International Literacy Association. The council’s mission is the improvement of literacy and the promotion of life-long reading habits in the citizens of Baldwin County. One of the ways that the council promotes reading and writing in area schools is by annually recognizing an outstanding Baldwin County reading teacher. This year marked the council’s 25th anniversary. Newton School is proud of you, Mrs. Clinton!

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Huntington Learning Center Recognizes Fairhope MS Teacher

Huntington Learning Center is proud to announce that Ram Talantis has been selected as the Fairhope Middle School Teacher of the Month. Mr. Talantis teaches 7th grade English, ACCESS Spanish I, and Physical Education. He received his undergraduate degree in English from the University of Alabama and a graduate degree in Education Leadership from the University of South Alabama. Mr. Talantis has been a teacher at FMS for the past four years. He and his wife, Amanda, have two young children, Alexander and Mary Elizabeth. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, music, and sports.

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Elsanor Readers of the Month of April

The following Elsanor School students were selected as Readers of the Month for April: Abbye Anderson, Jacob Boyington, Addison Loggins, Harley Brand, Lead McDonald, Brenna Brill, Jasper Ross, Camden Wallace, Abby Cain, Adrian Almaraz, Aiden Kilpatrick, Scarlet Sells, Hunter Manning, Gio Nudo, Destin Simmons, Shane Gregson, and Justin Cornelison.

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Daphne East PE Students of the Year

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Pictured are the boy and girl representatives for each grade level at Daphne East. They were awarded on Field Day, Monday, April 25th. The award is given to students for making good choices, respect for others and self and kindness to others.

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Gulf Shores Students Place First in Cardboard Boat Race

On May 7, students from Daphne Middle School, Gulf Shores Middle School, and Spanish Fort Middle School competed in the Great American Cardboard Boat Race. This event is hosted by Daphne Middle School at the Fairhope Pier each year. Students construct a seaworthy boat from cardboard and duct tape then race them! Each boat must hold two students and travel out one hundred yards. This year the National Champion"ship" team from Gulf Shores Middle School won first place! Students Amrit Chase, Coby Hallex, and John Barros were the fastest team to complete the race with an impressive time of two minutes and one second. We are proud of all students' efforts.

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Studying Measurement at Gulf Shores Elementary

Second graders at Gulf Shores Elementary School are learning about measurement in Investigations Math. After using non-standards forms of measuring tools – paper clips, footsteps, etc. - they’ve begun using standard tools such as rulers, yardsticks, metersticks and tape measures. Pictured is Leah Guthrie showing her dad’s tape measure she’s using to measure and compare the lengths of classroom objects, as Parker Pennington observes.

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Autauga County Schools

Bayside Academy Student Athletes Take Top Honors as Coastal Alabama Players of the Year

Bayside Academy is pleased to announce three of its students as AL.com Coastal Alabama Players of the Year. Golf: 2016 graduate William Buhl was named the AL.com Coastal Alabama Golfer of the Year for the second year in a row. “William Buhl is a fine young man with a burning desire to succeed,” said Coach Mark Lasseter. “This desire will carry him far in all fields of endeavor. Good luck, William. We will miss you at Bayside.” Buhl has signed with University of Arkansas. Tennis: Rising junior Abby Warner was named AL.com Coastal Alabama Girls Tennis Player of the Year. Warner recently took home the State title of #1 in Singles. Coach Darcey Puckett said, “Abby's work ethic and training schedule is unbelievable. Her hard work led to an undefeated season and a respected leadership position as the number one girls singles player. Her singles state championship led Bayside to a respectable runner-up position at the 1A-3A state championship.” With two more years to play for Bayside, we look forward to seeing her accomplishments on the courts. Soccer: 2016 graduate Colin Douglas was named AL.com Coastal Alabama Boys Soccer Player of the Year. Varsity Soccer Coach Jamie Ferguson said, “Colin is a great athlete and fine young man. I couldn’t be happier that he was nominated and won this award. I’m going to miss him dearly, both as a person and as a player.” Douglas will continue his soccer career at University of West Florida.

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BCHS Senior Breakfast/Who's Who

Baldwin County High School held its annual senior breakfast recently at First Baptist Church in Bay Minette. A special thanks to the Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Group who cooked the meal for the students and faculty. Following the breakfast, the seniors and their parents gathered in the church sanctuary to watch the senior slide show and to recognize Who's Who of the 2016 class. Honorees included: Most Humorous: Shemiah Snowden & Dwayne Koen (not pictured); Most Courteous: Kyle Thompson & Morgan Orem; Most Likely to Succeed: Chris Steward & Madeline Seale; Campus Flirts: Caitlyn Phillips & Quintarus Williams; Most Athletic: DeeDee Maye & Jakori Savage; Most Polite: Charlie Flowers, Katelyn Farley & Dustin Harrelson; Best Personality: London Naseman & Brandon Powe; Most Talented: Lewis Davis & Niah Smith; Most School Spirit: Todd Lamb & Ashley Wilson; Quietest: Jerry White & Haven Graham; Most Talkative: Cory Jerkins & Christian Grant; Most Intelligent: Hunter Heathcock & Bobbye Jackson; Most Attractive: Brayden Wiggins & Jessica Frith; and Mr. & Miss BCHS - Todd Lamb & London Naseman.

Celebrating Art at Gulf Shores MS

Celebrating Art is a National art contest and only the best artwork out of thousands of entries is chosen for publication. These 41 students along with 26 students from last semester total 67 Gulf Shores Middle School art students to be published this year! *Not pictured Carys Hunley. Jessica Abney, Michele Barber, Samantha Barboza, Bailey Brewer, Xavier Bryant, Marley Burgess, MyLinh Bushnell, Jayden Byrd, Olivia Callahan, Ragan Chamblee, Jalyn Childress, Alleigh Coburn, Kayla Collings, Giluia De Souza, Courtney Dugan, Anastasia Fetcu, Lauren Fincher, Jake Gibbons, Brooke Graham, Molly Griffin, Sarah Guthrie, Emily Hammac, William Howard, Carys Hunley, Cole Jennings, Bentley Kendall, Chloe Knight, Reagan Kostelecky, Grace Lawrence, Aidan Libbra, Madison McDaniel, Tatum Melville, Max Nettles, Kenadi Oldani, Alayna Perrott, Christian Perryman, Alexis Pope, Hannah Stanley, Ralee Stewart, Avery Thomley, Carley Tuck, Art Teacher: Megan Scofield.

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Autauga County Schools

Bayshore Christian School Celebrates First Graduating Class

Congratulations to the first graduating class of Bayshore Christian School. This impressive group of 12 students has received over $1 million in scholarship offers and earned an average ACT score of 29.3. Simultaneous with graduating its first class, Bayshore has received its accreditation from the Association of Classical Christian Schools. Both achievements have been years in the making for the school and fulfill its mission of graduating students with a biblical worldview. Next school year will mark the 15th anniversary for the classical Christian school, and they aim to continue their mission of graduating students with a biblical worldview as their enrollment numbers grow close to 300 students. Pictured from left to right Front Row: Maddie Walsh, Olivia Williams; Middle Row: Joel Garner, Sara Bradley Sheckells, Evy Hayes, Priscilla Brock, Jacob Collins; Back Row: Kevin Kearney, Beth Ann Gifford, Fletcher Williams, Ian Doremus, Sara Breslin.

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Elsanor Leaders of the Month of April

Congratulations to the following Elsanor School students for being selected as Leaders of the Month for April: Levin Cain, Blakely Hale, Angel Molino, Nevaeh Brown, Jacob Sanderson, Abby Riggan, Isaiah Canceleno, Melanie Hernandez, Cameron Cain, Gracie Dahl, Emaleigh Wirth, Kate Mott, Isabella Nudo, Madison Gausmann, Ally Barrett, Samantha Butler, Eli Hubbard, and Scarlett Conner.

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Fairhope Middle Duke Tip Honorees

A number of 7th grade students at Fairhope Middle School participated in the Duke Tip University Talent Recognition Program earlier this year. Of the students that qualified to participate, 16 students qualified for State Recognition and 3 students were honored with Grand Recognition. State Recognition recipients earned the award by scoring at or above the national average of recent high school graduates on at least one part of the ACT or SAT test. Congratulations to the following State Recognition Honorees: Julia Ahrendt, Ryan Brown, Tyler Croy, Annalyn Duke, Emma Erdoes, Laura Gamard, Benjamin Hoover, Kaitlyn Koehler, Jeffrey Latture, Thomas Little, Jack Marlow, Rianna Smith, Mary Everett Toombs, Bo Travis, Paxton Troup, and Bennett Vaughn. Three of the previously listed honorees qualified at the Grand Recognition level by scoring at or better than 90 percent of high school graduates who tested on at least one part of the ACT or SAT test. Grand Recognition honorees will be recognized at a special ceremony on the University of Alabama campus. Pictured, from left to right, are the Grand Recognition honorees: Tyler Croy, Laura Gamard, and Bennett Vaughn.

Fairhope High School AP Chemistry Awards Outstanding Fairhope High School Chemistry students were recognized at an American Chemical Society awards dinner on April 26 at the University of South Alabama. The recipients include Savannah Petrus and William Illiano for their unwavering dedication and their tireless determination to succeed in AP Chemistry. Pictured from left to right are Savannah Petrus, Amanda Jennings, (Chemistry teacher at Fairhope High School), and William Illiano.

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Great Ideas at Gulf Shores ES

Gulf Shores Elementary School students in first grade are researching their new PBL: How can a great idea make our lives easier? We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to see what they come up with for this! Pictured l to r: Tristan Jimmerson and Thor Harden.

Baldwin County High School Prom Court

Baldwin County High School announced its Prom Court during the dance Saturday, April 23, in Gulf Shores. Prom King and Queen are Todd Lamb and Jessica Frith. Court members include Riley McCullough, Edgar Eleogo, Quintarus Williams, Aleah Anderson, Meekie Bastes, and London Naseman. BCJS teacher William Jones executed another outstanding prom for students. This year's theme was "Once Upon a Prom".

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

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Spanish Fort HS Students Excel at National Spanish Examinations

Congratulations to several world language students from Spanish Fort High School who attained national recognition for excellent performance on the 2016 National Spanish Examinations. Students from Spanish Fort High School earned a total of 2 silver and 9 bronze medals along with 20 honorable mentions. “Attaining a medal or honorable mention for any student on the National Spanish Examinations is very prestigious,” said Kevin Cessna-Buscemi, National Director of the Exams, “because the exams are the largest of their kind in the United States with over 160,000 students participating in 2016.” Students from Spanish Fort High School have a long history of high achievement on these exams and were taught by Spanish teacher, Marko Sebastiani, sponsor of this Exam and Advisor of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica Chapter for Spanish Fort H S. The National Spanish Examinations are administered each year in grades 6 through 12, and are sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese.

Orange Beach Elementary Terrific Kids

PreK – 3rd Front Row (left to right): Amiah Beebe, Ella Pearson, Karlie Jones, Dustin Opperud, GeorgAnna Hartin. Back Row (left to right): Bubba Grover, Ruby Kottsick, Mary Rebecca Murphy, Bryant Cranford, Aidan Smith, David Walters. Not Pictured: Natalie Onisa and Mylez Nancianceno. 4th – 6th Grade Front Row (left to right): Charlee Rowland, London Jones, Waylon Glover. Back Row (left to right): Emily Watson, Brian Carter Brunick, Kaden Etheridge, Madison Thomas, Morgyn Jones, Julia Fisher.

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FMS 2016 Miss Pirate Princess Crowned

Fairhope Middle School held their annual Miss Pirate Princess pageant. The pageant, under the direction of FMS 8th grade teacher Kelly Lanicek, is a fundraising event for the school. The twenty-five contestants participated in a panel interview and an evening gown competition, where they were judged on poise and appearance. Entertainment was provided by Claire Blythe, a 7th grade FMS student. The following finalists were crowned: Piper Henley, Miss Pirate Princess; Georgeanna Cannon, 8th grade Princess; Molly Walding, 7th grade Princess; Mabrie Baker, Most Poised; Erin Moseley, Most Photogenic; Gabrielle Correa, Best Interview; and Rileigh Glass, Miss Congeniality (Pictured, right). Top 10 finalists pictured left to right: Piper Henley, Mia Astralaga, Georgeanna Cannon, Mabrie Baker, Erin Moseley, Molly Walding, Kaitlyn Koehler, Kendel Lee Frazer, Hannah Beall, Gabrielle Correa.

Fairhope High School FCCLA Banquet

The Fairhope High FCCLA (Family, Career, Community Leaders of America) Chapter celebrated an incredible year of community service at the end of the year banquet, at the Fairhope Yacht Club. This lovely group of ladies gave over 500 hours of service to Baldwin County. Dianne Bernasconi, club advisor, is so proud of this compassionate group!

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Daphne Girl Scout Earns Highest Award

The idea of having a Buddy System, where children are paired up and assume responsibility for one another’s safety, is a concept that has long been implemented in school systems. However, Abigale Legge has put a different meaning to it to earn her Gold Award, the highest award earned in Girl Scouts. Abby developed a Buddy System program where elementary-age students were paired with high school students for tutoring sessions. This idea came about when she was hired to tutor a third grader and realized how quickly students can learn and retain knowledge; they just needed one person to sit down and work individually with them. This Buddy System program was driven by her passion for helping others and sparked her interest in making this her Gold Award project. Open only to girls in high school, the Gold Award represents a “take action” project that challenges girls to change the world through a seven-step process that includes making a plan and educating others. For the project, each tutor worked specifically with one student to realize their learning style in order to become a better role model for them. During the process, Abby had to connect the peer helpers club to the elementary school, develop a schedule for tutoring, as well as arranging transportation to the tutoring session. However, after all of the preliminary items were completed, she was able to enjoy her program by tutoring students, facilitating learning games, and worksheets. This system was able to help students reduce their learning struggle while enhancing their learning capabilities. Abby hopes that she has left some sort of legacy behind by creating a system that benefits others and eventually earned her a Gold Award. “When I leave for college and pursue a degree in Secondary Education, I may not be remembered by peers or teachers, but the kids I partnered with will always know that I helped them.” The elementary-age students impacted by the Buddy System has improved their mathematics and English skills, as well as developed a bond with a student tutor. The tutor also received service hours along with the chance to be a mentor and help someone who looks up to them. Nationwide, less than 6 percent of eligible Girl Scouts earn the Gold Award, which adds Abby to an elite group of women who make a difference in the world around them.

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Autauga County Schools

Great American Cardboard Boat Race

It is possible to construct a boat of nothing more than cardboard & duct ape and find it seaworthy enough to carry two crew members in a race out in Mobile Bay? The Gifted classes at Daphne Middle, Spanish Fort & Gulf shores accepted the challenge on Saturday, May 7. We had The Great American Cardboard Boat Race. It was a wonderful turnout! We would like to give a special thank you to the wonderful parents for their support during the boatbuilding unit. Your love, dedication, and encouragement are the reasons we succeed! The Winners: · Team Spirit Award: #7 Whitetail Runner from Daphne- Ty Turner, Max Brown, Chapel Hurst, Caleb Dyche, Logan Heiter & Coleman Liles · Best Rationale or Written Design Report (The John Paul Jones Award):#15 SS Asian Boat from Daphne- Reed Turner, Cameron Holder, Andrew Wilson, & Lucas Monteiro · Honorable Mention: #5 Hare’s Revenge from Daphne- Jordan Casey, Erin Lassere, Lauren Hayes & Emma Fanning · Best Dressed Crew (Captain Hook Award): #37 Yellow Brick Boat from Spanish Fort- Olivia Madison, Ragan Granthem, Ryley Granthem, Taylor Owen · Fastest Sinking Boat (The Hunley Award): #16 Nerdy Wordy from Daphne- Amaya Smith, Ashleigh Miller, Aidan LeJeune, Bethany McClurg & Mariah Kirby · Most Creative Design (The Captain Nemo Award): #15 SS Asian from DaphneReed Turner, Cameron Holder, Andrew Wilson & Lucas Monteiro · The Most Spectacular Sinking Award (The Titanic Award): #34 The Jolly Roger from Spanish Fort- Kelsey Cox, Ariana Nagle, Joey Williams, Avery Bynum & Ashlyn Hudson · 3rd Place Boat finishing in 2 minutes, 17 seconds: #15 SS Asian from Daphne- Reed Turner, Cameron Holder, Andrew Wilson & Lucas Monteiro · 2nd Place Boat finishing in 2 minutes, 2 seconds: #38 Fighting Vikings from Gulf Shores- Claire Megginson, Morgan Carrier, Ella Caldwell, Ridley Varden & Alyssa Dennis · 1st Place Boa finishing in 2 minutes, 1 second: #28 Alabama Inc. National Champion Ships from Gulf Shores- Amrit Chase, John Barros & Coby Hallex Thanks again to everyone for coming out and supporting the boat race! It was a huge success.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

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Sea Cadets Prepare For Trainings

The U. S. Naval Sea Cadets have been preparing hard this month for summer trainings. They started drill at the USCG Aviation Training Center with Physical Readiness Testing (PRTs). PRTs consist of sit-ups, push-ups, a mile run, sit and reach, and a shuttle run. Cadets have to complete each activity in a time that is compatible to their age. After PRTs the cadets were transported to the Hearin Chandler YMCA on Downtowner BLVD for a lock-in. While at the YMCA cadets engaged in swim qualifications, which is also required for summer trainings. Many cadets qualified for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class swimmers. Outside of drill, several cadets continued their preparations by earning their dive certificates as well as completing additional PRTs. Bravo Zulu to the cadets for a job well done. Sea Cadets is a program designed for young men and women between the ages of 10 and the completion of high school. The program has a positive influence on these young people, teaching them the importance of patriotism, courage, self-reliance, leadership skills, teamwork, accountability, and military knowledge. Once the cadet has completed the program, they are under no obligation to enter any of the armed forces. However, if they choose to enlist they are normally enlisted at a higher pay grade. The program has an open enrollment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; meaning you can join at any time during the year. The Sea Cadets typically drill once a month at the Aviation Training Center located in Mobile. If you would like more information you can visit the website at www.seacadets.org or email at angela.graham@hotmail.com.

Daphne East First Grade Teachers Receive Grants for STEM Kits

Terrie Weinacker and Pamela Yelding received classroom grants from Tanger for their 1st grade classrooms. The grants are for STEM kits.

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Autauga County Special Schools Needs Playground Fairhope Middle School Receives

The Fairhope Middle School Friends of Exceptional Children along with many others have worked to raise the $20,000 needed to construct an accessible playground for the special needs children. Chick-fil-A accepted Mardi Gras beads in exchange for food at their Daphne location then gave the collected beads to the Friends of Exceptional Children Club to sell. A funding Grant was awarded by the Lowe’s Educational Enrichment Foundation. The Knights of Columbus have been financial sponsors for many years for FEC and added funding to this project as well. Other hard working and financial contributors are Coach Earnest & the FMS PE Department, Fairhope Middle School, and the Fairhope Single Tax Corporation. The FMS PTC also raised funds at their 3rd Annual Pirates Take the Pond fundraiser. Many other local businesses and individuals contributed their time, finances and resources. This playground, named, "Mrs. McGough's Special Place” is for special needs children to enjoy while attending FMS and to honor Mrs. Tina McGough. Tina has been a teacher for over 30 years and a true inspiration to her friends and family. Contributors, friends and family gathered for the dedication & ribbon cutting ceremony on May 4th, 2016. In attendance for the ceremony was Fairhope Mayor Tim Kant, BCBE Superintendent Eddie Tyler, Assistant BCBE Superintendent Marty McRae, Lowe’s Educational Foundation representative, Knights of Columbus representatives, FMS PTC President Lynn Oldshoe and Treasurer Shannon Finch, 2015 FEC President Tucker Weinberg, FMS Principal Angela Hall, FMS faculty members Barbara English, Debra Brett, the Honoree, Tina McGough & her family, Exceptional students and members of the FEC Club.

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Fairhope High Engineering Team Competes in NASA’s Rover Challenge

Fairhope High School’s Engineering Team competed in NASA’s Human Exploration Rover Challenge April 7-9 at the U. S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville. Fairhope High School’s team finished in 7th place out of 44 teams from all over the world. NASA's engineering design challenge focused on NASA’s current plans to explore planets, moons, asteroids and comets -- all members of the solar system family. The challenge focused on designing, constructing and testing technologies for mobility devices to perform in these different environments, and it provided valuable experiences that engaged students in the technologies and concepts that will be needed in future exploration missions. Rovers were human-powered and carried two students, one female and one male, over a halfmile obstacle course of simulated extraterrestrial terrain of craters, boulders, ridges, inclines, crevasses and depressions. Each student team of six members was responsible for building their own rover, and the two course drivers were chosen from the team. As a part of the challenge, and before traversing the course, unassembled rover entries were carried by the drivers to the course starting line. The unassembled components had to be contained in a volume of 5 feet by 5 feet by 5 feet (dimension requirements). At the starting line, the entries were assembled, readied for racing, and evaluated for safety. Assembly occurs one time prior to the first course run. The top three winning teams in each division were those having the shortest total times in assembling their rovers and traversing the course. Each team was permitted two runs of the course, and the shortest course time (plus penalties) was added to the assembly time for the final total event time. The FHS team began the redesign of the old rover and the design and building of the new rover in August and finished around the beginning of April. The wheels this year were the new challenge because they were not allowed to use any commercially purchased rims or tires from things such as bicycles, etc….Fairhope High School’s Engineering Team members are Mac Sternenberg, Forrest Pearson, Zach Pace, Saywer Summers, Henry Gilbert, Dakota Ackerman, Lelani Payne, Reagan Merritt, Nolan Mackey, Crawford Stitt, and Trenton Kee. Sponsors of this year’s FHS rover project were Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation, Hagan Fence, Hargrove Engineering, Emily Norris / Rodan + Fields, Baldwin EMC Starlight, and Volkert, Inc. Anyone interested can contact Cody Coleman, FHS Engineering Instructor, at 251-228-0288. 39

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Autauga County Schools

Lemonade Wars at Daphne East Elementary

Mrs. Crabtree’s 4th grade class has been doing a project based unit using the novel “The Lemonade War” by Jacqueline Davies. Mrs. Crabtree’s class decided to have their own Lemonade Wars and involve the whole school! Students sold regular lemonade, strawberry lemonade, and blueberry lemonade during each grade levels' snack time on Tuesday, May 3rd at the snack bar for 50 cents a cup. All the money raised was donated back to the school. Each group filmed a skit/commercial to try to persuade people to buy their flavor of lemonade. The commercials were emailed to each teacher on Monday for their class to view before making their decision. A great time was had by EVERYONE!

Bayside Academy Boys Soccer Team Wins State Championship

Bayside Academy Boys Soccer beat Altamont and won their first Alabama High School Athletic Association Boys 1A-3A Varsity State Championship with a score of 3-2 on Friday, May 13.

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Girl Scout Goes for the Gold

Knowing that younger children are in need for supplemental help in reading, Nicole Nobles, a Girl Scout of 13 years, teamed up with Spanish Fort Elementary to create a new reading program for her Gold Award project. Open only to girls in high school, the Girl Scout Gold Award represents a “take action” project that challenges girls to change the world through a seven-step process: identify the issue, investigate it thoroughly, get help and build a team, create a plan, present your plan and gather feedback, take action, and educate and inspire others. Nobles was driven to pursue this project because of her passion for reading and animals. She combined the two passions to create the reading program hoping it would decrease illiteracy in her community For her reading program, Nobles had Hillary Sansone and her therapy dog, Hoss, come to the school every week so the students could read to him. One of her main goals was to help students gain confidence in their reading skills so they feel comfortable reading out loud and help them succeed in other school subjects. With the high scale of this project, intimidation is almost certain, but Nobles knew she had a team with her through all of her challenges. When asked to recall a special moment during the process, Nobles said, “The best part of my project was seeing the kids’ faces each week when they found out that Hoss was there. The first graders were so funny because they would always rush to see who could say “The End” first when they finished their stories. The children also taught me how to be happy with the little things in life.” Due to her Gold Award project, children’s reading skills improved by up to 50%. Her program is still viable program in Spanish Fort Elementary School and has even been implemented in other schools. She plans to attend Auburn University to study microbiology and then attend to veterinary school. Since 1916, the best and brightest Girl Scouts have undertaken projects like Noble’s that not only improve their communities, but also improve the world.

Westminster Village Musicale

The Music students of Baldwin County Music Teachers Association members Vincentine Williams and Daniel DeKonty enjoyed their final performance of the season for the residents of Westminster Village on April 23rd. From left, back row: Jackson Phares, Abrielle Le; Front row: Kendall Maull, Natalie Nelson and Albert Le.

Gulf Shores Elementary Earth Day Siblings

Siblings Gulf Shores High School student Hannah Lesley (11th grade) and Gulf Shores Elementary student Breck Lesley (5th grade) were able to meet up at the Gulf Shores Schools' Earth Day event recently.

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Q. I know when it comes to investing you like mutual funds and paid-for real estate. What do you think about using condominiums as investment properties instead of single-family homes? A. I don’t really have a problem with condos as paid-for investments. I own a couple of them myself. When it comes to making this kind of investment for the first time, however, I would advise that you keep a few things in mind. Based on equal price and equal neighborhood, the average single-family home will probably increase more in value over the years. Now, a nice, well-placed condo will obviously go up in value faster than a traditional house in a lesser neighborhood. So speaking in an overall sense, they’re not bad investments if you do your homework. You have to think about what you’re getting into and also take into consideration a number of variables. What are the HOA dues or condo fees going to be? Is the condo association being managed well? That and the neighborhood are the two biggest concerns I have when buying a condo. A lot of condo associations are very poorly managed. And if they don’t provide proper maintenance or keep a certain percentage of the complex owner-occupied versus rental, the condo association or complex can lose the

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

ability to get normal permanent financing. If they can’t get FHA, VA or conventional financing, the values are going to drop like a rock — because you’ve only got cash buyers and investment buyers at that point. Research on these kinds of things doesn’t take an awful lot of work. Just call the management company, and the realtor who’s involved if it’s listed, and ask for the documentation. Most of the time this sort of stuff is public information, so it’s not hard to access. Some other questions you might ask are: What are the reserves for the roof? What are the reserves for paint and the parking lot? Are they collecting enough to pay their bills, and are they actually paying their bills?

Q. I’ve had a judgment filed against me for an old, unpaid medical bill. The original amount was $2,500, but now it has increased to $3,200. Can I negotiate this with the lawyer? I’ve asked him for a detailed statement of the account several times, but all I’ve gotten is a payment booklet. A. When it comes to paying off bills or debt, you should always pay what’s owed if you have

the money. There’s a moral, as well as legal, responsibility involved. That being said, if you don’t have $3,200, offer him whatever you’ve got — $2,000 or the original $2,500 as a settlement. Make sure he understands that you’re not offering to pay the amount you have on the debt, but that it’s being offered as settlement in full if the debt is cleared. The reason you haven’t gotten what you’ve asked for so far is you may have been talking to some low-level staffer or paralegal. If you have been talking directly to the lawyer, then he’s probably running a small debt collections or debt lawsuit machine. That means you’re just one of dozens of widgets coming down the line. To you, this is very personal. But to him, you’re just another account. You might have to do something to get his attention and wake him up. If this is the case, he probably gets a piece of whatever he collects. So, if he gets a third of $2,000 or $2,500 it might make his house payment this month. You could also talk to the hospital administrator, too, and let them know you’ll bring a couple thousand down there today if they’ll accept it as payment in full. At this point, you’ve just got to do something to get off the conveyor belt!

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Keeping Family Cellphones Secure A cellphone is an investment. In addition to the device itself, every family cellphone includes crucial information—contacts and messages, passwords and personal data, photos and videos. Unfortunately, cellphones are also very vulnerable. They can be lost, stolen, hacked, dropped and infected with viruses. In a recent Verizon survey, over half of the respondents admitted losing or destroying at least one cellphone. A quarter had lost 2 or more phones, and 43% had sent the phone through the laundry. People in the Verizon survey were over 18, so it’s easy to imagine that the figures would be even higher for adolescents. Your family may not be able to avoid every mishap, but you can minimize some of the heartbreak by teaching good cellphone habits as soon as kids get their first phone. Use a password. A strong password will protect what’s on a phone if it gets stolen lost or “borrowed” by a mischievous friend. Help your child think up something memorable that isn’t based on readily available information such as birthday, street address, initials, etc. If kids object to entering a password every time they want to text, set the delay feature so the password kicks in when the phone hasn’t been used for a certain number of minutes. As a bonus, a password gives everyone in the family just a second to think, “Do I really need to check my phone right now?” Have a back-up plan. A phone is a data storage device, and data needs back-up. It doesn’t matter whether you store photos and contacts in the cloud or on your Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

own computer. Just be sure that back-up happens automatically. Consider the find feature. Most phones have a find-my-phone option, and it can certainly be helpful if you need to locate a phone—or for that matter a child who’s carrying the phone. Just remember that this feature depends on location tracking. If you can find the phone—or the child—so can other people who know the number. Even if tracking isn’t enabled, you can still erase the data on a stolen phone, something that becomes more urgent if the phone is used for financial transactions. Sometimes this feature has to be enabled in advance. To find out how, search for “erase data” and the type of phone you want to protect.

Download apps from trusted sites. Apps are part of what makes cellphones useful and fun. Apps can also introduce viruses and security problems. Establish a family policy about downloads. Young children should get permission before every download. Everyone should use reputable sites like Google Play and the App Store because they evaluate apps for safety and reliability before they make them available. Stay up-to-date. Hackers are constantly trying to exploit vulnerabilities in cellphones. Fortunately, reputable phone companies and app makers try to plug security leaks as they discover them. It’s a cat and mouse game, and you don’t want to be the mouse. The only way to have the benefit of updates is to download them. Use the settings on the phone to be sure all family phones get updates automatically. Install antivirus protection. Some antivirus protection is built into cellphones but parents may want to add an extra layer of protection. Apps like Lookout, Avast or TrustGo can scan a child’s phone for malicious programs and help you remove them safely. Be leery about links. Several years ago, a security firm found people were more likely to click on fraudulent links on their 44

phones. Maybe that’s because the tiny screen makes it harder to recognize junk messages. Or maybe it’s because cellphone users get in the habit of clicking quickly on social media. Teach kids how to recognize phone spam—unsolicited messages that promise goodies. And remind them that they should never enter personal information into a form that pops up on the phone—no matter how tempting the offer seems to be.

Don’t give other people access. Teach your child how to put a phone into guest mode. Deploy this feature if someone asks to borrow the phone. Then the guest won’t have access to messages, photos and other personal information.

Be suspicious of unknown callers. Young phone users should have a list of approved contacts. Consider blocking everyone else. Older teens should know about the one-ring scam in which international crooks make the phone ring just once. If your child calls back out of curiosity, you get charged hot-line fees. The best way to prevent such problems is to block international calls unless there is a reason to receive them. In addition to these technical tips, there are also some common sense ways to protect the family cellphones. A brightly colored case and a distinctive ring tone make it easier to find a missing phone. An inexpensive screen protector may keep a screen from shattering if a phone gets dropped—or thrown. A family charging station means that you’ll know where all phones are at least once a day. And a bowl of rice is a time-honored way to dry out a wet cellphone. (Better yet, save those little bags of dessicant so you can toss a few into a sandwich bag with a damp phone.) Finally, befriend the folks who sold you the phone. They know the ins and outs of security and other special features. Dropping in for the occasional tutorial is one of the best ways to assure that your family’s cellphones—and the people who use them— are as safe as they can be. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2016, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved

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Dads are good with good enough

Pop culture doesn’t appreciate dads. Sitcoms make fun of their diapering (in)abilities or portray dads as irresponsible babysitters who feed the kids pizza, ice cream and sugary soda while mom is out for the evening. Personal experience tells me there may some truth in this. My own husband shows our kids zombie movies then acts surprised when they refuse to sleep with the lights out. Really. Stereotypes aside, it can be hard to move past the momknows best mentality and make room for dads’ different style of parenting. Mom of four Tsara Shelton of Teague, Tex., says parenting together with her boys’ dad has been the biggest challenge in their happy, 13-year marriage. “I always want to be the one with the answers and insights! But in truth, it’s been coparenting that’s blessed my boys with the best of what both mom and dad have to offer.” All moms can learn valuable lessons from watching what dads do best. Here’s how. Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

Most moms I know struggle to drown out the nagging inner critic who says we aren’t good enough. We feel intense pressure to keep the house (and kids!) clean and to respond cheerfully to every social obligation. Our to-do lists never get done. And it’s stressful. Researchers at Auburn University found women are more likely to feel inadequate at home and at work than men because we’re more perfectionistic. Dads recognize the 80% solution is often good enough. They can walk away from a sink full of unwashed dishes – without feeling guilty – to spend time playing with the kids before bedtime. Moms can’t deny there is wisdom in this approach. Dishes don’t grow up and go off to college. Kids do. Being good with “good enough” doesn’t mean dads deny their shortcomings. Tina Bushman, co-author of the family discus46

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sion-starting book Table Talk, says she has learned from watching her husband, John, address his missteps. “When it has been a rough parenting day, he will sit on the edge of our child’s bed and explain that even though parents try hard, we aren’t perfect. He apologizes if he got upset or said the wrong thing and asks forgiveness. It takes a humble dad to do that and I love him for it.”

Dads encourage active play Mud pies, snow forts and do-it-yourself science experiments are dads’ domain, says Wendy Valderrama of Denver, Colo., “They do messy fun really well.” Valderrama watches her 3-year-old daughter’s princess wedding ball with prince Daddy every night. “He lets her take the lead and follows right along with her in the imaginative play,” she says. Dads’ passion for play is a joy to behold. When they aren’t entertaining kids on their own level, dads expose kids to grown-up tasks and topics. A dad might teach a child how to mow the lawn or talk about financial matters during informal apprenticeship sessions. Since dads aren’t focused on ages and stages of development, they may share information that is over kids’ heads. There is an upside to this, Valderanna says. “The conversations I overhear between my daughter and her dad are amazing! I see her processing concepts I wouldn’t have thought possible because I am stuck in a preschool mentality all day.”

Dads encourage risk-taking While moms’ protective instincts lead us to discourage kids from taking physical risks, studies show dads give kids more personal space to explore the environment, even if there is risk involved. “At the park, I’m nervous about my 2-year-old going down the big slide, and, at home, I protect my baby from face-planting very time he attempts to crawl,” says San Diego, Calif., mom Anna Crowe. Dads often push kids to go outside their comfort zones. Physical challenges help kids develop strength, coordination and confidence. And, by testing their physical prowess, “kids learn valuable skills that could prevent them from getting into serious trouble in the future,” Crowe admits. Dads allow kids to learn by doing when moms might be more likely to teach by talking. During the anxious moments in parenting, dads maintain a calm composure

moms admire. Stacy Lewis of Long Beach, Calif., says her husband changed her perspective on parenting forever during one intense encounter with their three kids. He said, “I don’t get it! You are the mom. Why are you hollering?” And something clicked for Lewis. “He keeps things insanely balanced, and I love him for that.”

Dads set boundaries Because women are focused on preserving social connections, we may avoid family conflict. The mental and emotional effort of peacekeeping can lead to emotional exhaustion for women, according to research by psychologists at Carnegie Mellon University. Over time, minor frustrations can grow into deep, simmering resentments. Shelton admits she struggles to establish clear, firm rules for her kids. She sees most issues as gray areas and enjoys discussing the connections between kids’ behaviors, social expectations and cultural pressures. “If my hubby didn’t bring everything down to its simplicity I would get lost loving my children in the grey,” Shelton says. While moms might see kids’ behavior in shades of gray, dads can take a more black-and-white view. Men are less likely to shy away from conflict because they don’t take it personally. That means they step in and confront interpersonal issues head-on. Shelton’s two youngest sons – who had symptoms of autism at early ages – learned to be comfortable in their own bodies and brains because of their dad’s black-and-white boundaries. “If my husband didn’t bring everything down to its simplicity I would get lost loving my boys in the gray,” she says. The key to parenting well is to figure out which situations require a firm, rule-based response and which ones call for deeper conversation. Dads seem to know this intuitively.

Dads don’t fret Women often wish men would listen to our problems without trying to solve them, but that’s not how men are wired. When things go wrong, dads jump into problem-solving mode and determine what steps they can take to change the situation. If the first attempt isn’t successful, dads try another approach. Women are more likely to focus on feelings, which can actually amplify distress. We may commiserate with girlfriends or replay worst-case scenarios in our minds. C. Lee Reed of Beachside, Florida 47

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recalls her father often told his kids to “suck it up” in the face of disappointment. “It sounds crazy but we learned to put on our big girl panties when things didn’t go our way,” Reed says. Now she uses the same phrase with her own daughter. It lightens the mood when emotions run high. Dads’ emotional balance allows them to keep parenting problems in perspective. Crowe says she often panicked at her son’s inability to sleep through the night or the fact that he didn’t crawl when other babies did. But her husband took a longer view. “He taught me not to worry so much about the little things, unless they become a bigger concern,” says Crowe. A calm response is both comforting and practical.

Dads are present Moms take pride in our super-human ability to do five things at once, but there is an undeniable downside. Multitasking prevents us from seizing the joys of the present moment. Lauren Nichols of Farmingdale, NY, praises her husband’s ability to be in the moment with their 4-year-old son. “I admire his ability to slow down and listen to everything our son has to say. It is as if he really remembers what it was like to be a little kid. They are two peas in a pod.” Reed is inspired by her husband’s presence as well. While Reed, who calls herself “Helicopter Mom” is busy multitasking, her husband, “Just Plane Dad,” knows how to be fully present in the moment, she says. “When he spends time with our daughter, he’s not worried about the laundry or paying the bills. He is all there.” Tuning in completely allows dads to see children as growing, loving little people. And it reminds us all that we’re blessed by our children – and their dads – in big and small ways every day. ESP Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist who has gleaned many practical parenting strategies from her husband’s more laid-back approach. She is the author of Detachment Parenting.

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Are Video Games Controlling Your Teen? Americans spent more than 10 billion dollars in video game equipment last year. Video game sales have now surpassed sales of both music and movies. What that means is that for millions of kids and young adults, playing video games has moved beyond a hobby and into an obsession. Now, before you label me as anti-fun, hear me out. I find nothing wrong with most videos games. In fact, playing them together with your teen is a great way to connect. But some kids and young adults are being consumed by them, and that’s where the problem lies. For some kids, what was once a fun pastime has quickly turned into an addiction. So where is the balance? If your teenager is obsessed with video games, how can you limit, but not eliminate, their interest? First, I think it’s important for moms and dads to know why teens are so easily addicted to games.

The Draw of Video Games Boys love playing video games because they provide challenge and adventure. There’s a sense of accomplishment when they beat a level, achieve a high score or complete a mission. Video games scratch an itch every guy has–to conquer dragons and rescue princesses. What’s more, teenage boys find a sense of value and esteem in playing these games. Even the dorkiest kids can become virtual sports stars, rock stars, cool secret agents or Rambo-like warriors in these games. It’s one thing they can do better than their parents and maybe even their friends, so they relish it. And it’s one place — maybe the only place — where they feel totally in control. So in order to pull your teen away from the screen, you have to offer them an adventure to take its place. I know this is hard when both parents come home tired at night, or for the single mom working hard to make ends meet. But if all a family does is go to work, go to school, watch TV, sleep and repeat, then your teen is going to say, Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

“life is boring,” and they’ll look for adventure through another means. It might require some changes and rethinking, but it doesn’t take a lot of time to have an adventure with your child. Build something in the garage. Go to the batting cages. Take him to a concert. Go for a night hike. Shoot hoops at the playground. Eat at a new restaurant you’ve never tried before. If you find your home is a boring place, inject some excitement into your family. Get out and live real life.

When It Becomes All Consuming Playing video games is a good way to spend time with friends. But kids who are addicted will tell you that they started playing video games with their friends, but then moved on to playing online–against people who they don’t even know. In this scenario, gaming moves from a social pastime to a very isolating addiction.How can parents tell if their teen is developing a gaming obsession? The book, Playstation Nation, provides a checklist of traits parents should watch for. Does your child: • Play almost every day? • Play for extended periods (more than three or four hours at a time)? • Play for excitement? • Get restless and irritable if he or she can’t play? • Sacrifice social and sporting activities to play? • Play instead of doing homework? • Try in vain to limit playing time? • Seem to be losing interest in real-life activities? If your teen is spending way too much time playing video games, or if the games are affecting their motivation or personality, then it’s time to act. Cut back the number of hours they play daily. Shut down the unit and take away the power cord after a certain hour in the evening. Require that they match the time they play video games with equal amounts of other, more productive, nondigital activities. Anything that takes over a child’s time and attention for many hours every day should be moderated. 50

Getting It Under Control

Video gaming can be a great way for moms and dads to stay connected with their kids. I’ve played through many a game with my teens and, especially in my son’s case, it has been a great way to connect, compete, communicate, and laugh (because he usually destroyed me quickly). And along the way we’ve created some of those fun bonding moments that are felt and remembered, if never quite defined. But if gaming takes over your kid’s life, it’s time to take action. Here are some quick tips to help get gaming under control: • Discourage children from retreating into games when they are stressed or upset. Don’t let a gamepad become that emotional coping mechanism. Talk honestly about challenges and work through them together. • Encourage moderation. Set an egg timer. When it goes off, so does the game console. • Limit temptations. Move electronic gaming hardware out of your teen’s bedroom and into a common area. • Spend time playing together. Take turns, ask questions and keep interaction going so teens won’t disappear into the game environment. • Capitalize on your child’s fascination with games to channel energy in a more productive direction. One gamer was challenged by his parents to figure out how his favorite games worked, technologically. Today, he’s a computer wiz who recalls, “I think my first meaningful C++ app came just from trying to get a graphic display of all of the internal components and their capabilities.” The bottom line is to implement these restrictions for your child, not against them. Tell your kids that you’ll stand beside them through thick and thin, but you’ll stand in front of them when it comes to blocking anything unhealthy, immoral or antisocial that is influencing their life. And that includes controlling their use of video games that might be controlling them. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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First Baptist Fairhope

May 30 - June 3, 8:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 17261 State Highway 181, Fairhope (251) 928-9133; www.jubileeshores.net Email: donaldfurlong@gmail.com “Surf Shack” Catch the Wave of God’s Amazing Love! God Creates, Helps, Loves, Calms, and Sends. Visit our website for the link to our online registration. Vacation Bible School is Free. Contact the church office for questions. VBS is open to children ages 3 - 10 years.

June 5 – June 6, from 9:00 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. 300 South Section Street, Fairhope  (251) 928-8685; www.fbcfairhope.org   Email: dlund@fbcfairhope.org “Submerged” Finding Truth Below the Surface Launch Day is Sunday June 5th from 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm. Kick off night is a family event. VBS will be offered to children that have completed K – 5th grades. Registration is available online Now. T-shirts may be purchased FROM LIFEWAY. The link to purchase them is contained within the sign up area. Please call the church office for more information.

Eastern Shore Church of Christ

(ad on page 54)

1209 Daphne Avenue, Daphne www.EasternShoreChurchofChrist.org Sunday, June 5, 4:15 - 6:30 June 6 - June 8, 5:30 - 8:00 Ages 3 - Adult. Nursery available “God’s Word - Digging for Answers” - Join us for an extraordinary opportunity to learn God’s Word! With five informative and faith building lessons on how the Bible came to us! Your children will learn that the Bible

Providence United Methodist Church

ddhendrix@aol.com “Surf Shack: Catch the Wave of God’s Amazing Love” Come and eat, play, learn, and laugh with us at PUMC! Vacation Bible School is open to children ages 4yrs - 5th grade. Online registration is available at www. providencemethodist.org.

Spanish Fort Presbyterian Church (ad on page 82)

Sunday June 5 – Thursday 9, 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. 6620 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort  (251) 626-1242; www.spanishfortpresbyterian.com Email: lwoodson8@yahoo.com or office@ spanishfortpc.com “Cave Quest” Following Jesus the Light of the World Open to ages K-5th Grade (completed). Online registration is available. For more information contact the church office.

(ad on page 31)

First Baptist Church, Robertsdale

June 5 - 9, 5:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. 32200 Jimmy Faulkner Drive, Spanish Fort (251) 626-2510; www.providencemethodist.org Email: pumc.office@bellsouth.net or

June 6 - 10, 9:00 am - 2:30 p.m. 18200 Highway 104, Robertsdale (251) 947-4362 www.firstrobertsdale.com Email: cindy@firstrobertsdale.com

Announcing Our

2 0 1 6S u m m e r

Dance

Gulf

M a s t e r ’s

Coast

A l l i a n c e

Workshops and

Intensives Schedule C o n t e m p o r a r y Wo r k s h o p w it h Kor i R o ss Ju n e 9 t h J a z z a n d Ta p Wo r k s h o p s with Marcus and Annie Alford Ju n e 1 6 t h L y r i c a l / J a z z Wo r k s h o p w i t h L a w r e n c e Ja c k s o n Ju l y 2 7 t h Please call 251-621-9755 to res er ve your sp ot to day!

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@gcdadance

TEL: 251-621-9755 OR INFO@GCDADANCE.COM

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

www.easternshoreparents.com

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“CAMP 318” Camp 318 is a weeklong day camp for students who have completed K- 5th grades. During Camp students will learn how to TALK to God, LISTEN to God, and SHARE God with others. Registration will be April 24 - May 15, 2016. All students must preregister online at our website above. This year’s camp will be FREE. Space is limited. For more information visit our website or call the church office.

Eastern Shore Baptist Church June 6 - 10, 8:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. 6847 Park Drive, Daphne  (251) 626-5550; www.myesbc.net Email: Josh Sellers josh@myesbc.net “SUBMERGED! Finding Truth Below the Surface” Get ready to take an adventure like no other, deep within the mysterious sea! Kids will submerge themselves in God’s Word, and discover that Jesus didn’t just see what’s on the outside of people. He looked deep down on the inside. So grab your goggles, step into your flippers, and dive in to find truth below the surface! Registration is available at our website. Open to kids entering k-6th grade. For more information call or email Josh Sellers.

Fairhope UMC (ad on page 42)

June 6 – 10, 8:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. 155 South Section Street, Fairhope  (251) 928-1148; www.fairhopeumc.org Email Michelle Graham at michelle.graham@fairhopeumc.org   “Cave Quest” Following Jesus the Light of the world Open to rising Kindergarten - 6th grade. 6th graders will go off-site to do mission work. 4 years and younger require an onsite parent or guardian volunteer. Online

registration opens May 1st, 2016. For more information contact Michelle Graham at (251) 928-1148.

First Baptist of Orange Beach June 6 - 10, 9:00 a.m. – 2:45 p.m. 4773 Bay Circle, Orange Beach  (251) 981-4288; www.firstbaptistorangebeach.com Email: fbcorangebeach@gmail.com    “Camp O.B. Outfitters: Equipping Kids for Life” Open to ages 4 years – 5th grade. Registration is available at our website or the church office.

Rosinton United Methodist Church June 6 - 10, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm 26011 Baldwin Beach Express, Robertsdale (251) 964-5988 “Mega Sports Camp” We will be featuring soccer, basketball, and cheerleading for ages 3 years – 12 years. Please contact the church office for registration information.

(251) 626-1334; www.spanishfortumc.org   Email: ministries@spanishfortumc.org “Cave Quest” Come join us to learn about following Jesus, the Light of the World! Go to www.spanishfortumc.org for registration. Please call the church office for questions.

First Baptist Church of Foley June 13-17, 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 221 North Alston Street, Foley  (251) 943-8352; www.fbcfoley.com   Email: mtyer@fbcfoley.com or raust@fbcfoley.com “Submerged: Finding Truth Below the Surface” Open to ages 3 years - 6th grade. Online registration is available at www.fbcfoley.com. For information contact the church office.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church June 13 - 16, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.  28788 North Main Street, Daphne  (251) 626-2421; www.stpaulseasternshore.com   E-mail: stpauls@stpaulseasternshore.com “Surf Shack” Catch the Wave of God’s Amazing Love at Surf Shack 2016 VBS! Kids get ‘amped’ to learn God Creates, Helps, Loves, Calms, and Sends. Open to ages 3 years and up. For more information and registration contact the church office or  Elizabeth Faust at (251) 626-2421.

Spanish Fort United Methodist Church June 13- 17, 8:45 am – 12:15 pm Highway 31 at Hwy 225, Spanish Fort

Dance

Gulf

2016

Coast

A l l i a n c e presents our

Summer Dance

Camps

Ju n e 6 t h - 1 0 t h : Ballerina Princess Camp for ages 3-5 yrs. 10 am - 12 pm $125 S t r u t Yo u r S t u ﬀ C a m p f o r a g e s 6 - 8 y r s . 9 am - 12 pm $150 D an c e Jam C amp for age s 9 - 1 2 y rs . 9 am - 12 pm $175

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G C DA w i l l r u n r e g u l a r c l a s s e s f o r a l l a g e s a n d l e v e l s t h r o u g h o u t t h e s u m m e r f r o m Ju n e 6 t h - Ju l y 2 7 t h . Summer registration b egins March 7t h. Registration fee is $20 for regular summer class es. GULF COAST DANCE ALLIANCE

3 0 7 5 2 E M B E R L A N E , S PA N I S H F O R T, A L 3 6 5 2 7

TEL: 251-621-9755 OR INFO@GCDADANCE.COM

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Ascension Lutheran Church June 13 - 17, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.  8888 County Road 64, Daphne  (251) 626-7500; www.ourdaphnechurch.org Email: office@OurDaphneChurch.org “Barnyard Roundup” Jesus Gathers Us Together! Open to ages K-6th grade. For more information contact the church office.

St. Lawrence Catholic Parish June 13 - 17, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 370 South Section Street, Fairhope (251) 928-5931; www.stlawrencefairhope.com Email: ccd@stlawrencefairhope.com “Nazareth: Where Jesus Was A Kid” Open to ages entering K - 6th grade. Online registration is available at www.stlawrencevbs.com. Registration deadline is May 13. $35 per child. For info, call (251) 928-5931 ext. 132.

3Circle Church June 13 - 17, (times listed by age below) 10274 Highway 104, Fairhope  (251) 990-3112; www.3circlechurch.com Email: info@3circlechurch.com “Camp 3Circle” Open to ages 4 years - 4th grade. 4 and 5 year olds

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

will meet from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Kindergarten – 4th grade will meet from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Online registration begins May 16th. For more information contact the church office.

Family Ministries Center June 13 – 17, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. 9955 County Road 34, Fairhope (251) 928-4780; www.familyministriescenter.net Email: tiffanyerowan@gmail.com “Submerged: Finding the Truth Below the Surface” As kids are submerged in God’s word, they learn that Jesus sees people deep down in their heart -- not just at the surface level! (Psalm 139:23-24). Come take a dive with us! Open to ages K3 – 6th grade. Registration is available in the church office between the hours of 9am – 4pm or on our website. Saturday will be a family Fun day from 11 am – 1 pm.

Orange Beach United Methodist Church June 13 - 17, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 28751 Canal Road, Orange Beach  (251) 981-6751; www.orangebeachumc.org    Email: oboffice@orangebeachumc.org “Cave Quest – Following Jesus the

Light of the World” Open to ages 3 years (potty trained) - rising 5th grade. Online registration is available at www.orangebeachumc.org. For more information contact Christina McInnis at ChristinaWMcinnis@gmail.com.

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First UMC Bay Minette June 20 – 24 from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm. 120 West 2nd Street, Bay Minette (251) 937-8303; www.fumcbayminette.org “Cave Quest” The adventure will begin at 8:30 am, for registration, and end at noon. Every day at our Cave Quest VBS, June 20th-24th, children ages four to twelve will enjoy bible stories, music, arts and crafts, games, and snacks! Invite your friends!! For more information, contact the church office. Open to children Ages K4 - 6th. Deadline for pre-registration is June 17th. Visit us on Facebook for updates!

Christ Presbyterian Church June 20 - 24, 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. 8450 Whispering Pines Road, Daphne  (251) 621-9444; www.cpcdaphne.com Email: christchurchdaphne@gmail.com   Light supper served at 5:30 p.m. and VBS from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Open to ages K-5th grade. For information contact the church office.

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Loxley First Baptist Church June 20 - 24, 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm. 1050 North Alabama Street, Loxley  (251) 964-5261; www.fbcloxley.com Email:  christophermark@capasse.net   “Expedition Norway” Get ready for a trip across the globe…without leaving town! On the trip, kids will learn that in every situation, God is Good! Register today to experience daily life in Norway as part of the Expedition Norway team! Ages 4-12 (Must be 4 by June 20th) Pre-registration is strongly encouraged online by visiting www.groupvbspro.com/cc/fbcloxley. For more information or questions, please call the church office.

St. James Episcopal June 27 - 30, 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 860 North Section Street, Fairhope (251) 928-2912; www.stjamesfairhope.org Email: lyguilian@gmail.com “Surf Shack: Catch the Wave of God’s Amazing Love” Open to ages 5 years - 4th grade. Contact the church office for information and registration.

Faith Family Fellowship (ad on page 73)

July 11 – 15, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 7100 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort (251) 626-1379; www.faithfamilyonline.com “Submerged” Open to children who have completed K3 through 4th grade. Register online.

Gulf Shores United Methodist Church July 11 - 14, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.  1900 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores (251) 968-2411; www.gulfshoresumc.org Email: lee@gulfshoresumc.org

“Surf Shack” Open to ages 4 years (by Sept 1st) - 6th grade. Registration is available online and at the church office. Family Picnic Friday will be July 15th at 6:00 p.m.

Trinity Presbyterian Church July 11 - 15, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.  545 South Mobile Street, Fairhope  (251) 928-2524; www.tpcfairhope.org Email: tpconbay@gmail.com “Surf Shack” Open to ages K4 – Rising 5th grade. For more information, contact Jamie at (251) 621-0775.

Jubilee Baptist Church (ad on page 59)

July 11 - 15, 5:15 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 9264 Pleasant Road, Daphne (251) 621-7095; www.jubileebaptist.com Email: john@jubileebaptist.com “Submerged” Open to ages 3 years - 6th grade (completed). VBS Dinner served at 5:15 p.m. VBS following from 6 - 8 p.m. Online registration at www.jubileebaptist.com. For more information, contact the church office.

Grace Fellowship, PCA July 11 – 15, 5:30 – 7pm 1740 South Juniper Street, Foley (251) 968-5302; www.gracefellowship-pca.com Email: gfpca.gulfcoast@gmail.com

Barnwell Baptist Church July 25 – 29, 8:30 a.m. -11:30 a.m. 7780 US Highway 98, Fairhope (251) 928-8286; www.barnwellbaptist.org Email: rcohronpmc@aol.com

“Cave Quest” – Following Jesus, The Light of the World” Open to ages K - 5th grade. For registration and information, contact Robyn at the number or email listed above. A commencement service and refreshments will be Friday, July 29 at 5:30 p.m.

First Presbyterian Church Gulf Shores July 25 – 29, 9 a.m. – 12 noon 309 E 21st Avenue, Gulf Shores (251) 968-7720; www.gulfshoresfirstpresbyterian.org “Cave Quest” Gear up for an over-the-top underground adventure. Registration available online or by calling the church office. Open to those entering grades 1 through 4. **Note** Eastern Shore Parents makes every attempt to list the correct information regarding dates, times, etc. However, some events may change after the deadline for publication. Please check the event before attending.

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Architects at Any Age

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Once small hands successfully stack one block upon another, the interest in building and design is ignited. The power to envision and construct an edifice of their own design with their own hands is an inspirational tool to cultivate architectural enthusiasm in children. In addition to empowering creativity, crafting buildings fosters fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination as well as supporting STEM development. From the simplest structure to complex edifices, the following building sets offer kids developmental play with a world of design options!

by Gerry Paige Smith

4D Cityscape New York

Archiquest Master Builder Wooden Building Blocks

(4D Cityscape)

(T.S. Shure)

Part puzzle, part model, the 4D Cityscape expands beyond simple construction giving young talents a taste of city planning and design. Recreating the famous Manhattan footprint with a traditional 2D jigsaw puzzle, the set takes on its 3D aspect with over 100 buildings that fit into pre-cut holes in the finished puzzle. The fourth dimension to explore is time as buildings from 1812 through 2013 can populate the city. Famous landmarks such as the World Trade Towers, Empire State Building, Freedom Tower, Statue of Liberty are some of the iconic architecture that stand tall in the Manhattan realm. Once young builders master the Big Apple, they can set their sights on additional 4D Cityscape projects such as Washington DC, Rome, London and many more!

Melissa & Doug Architectural Units

KEVA Brain Builders

From designing roads and bridges to stacking up towering structures, Archiquest Building Blocks lay the world of architecture at a child’s feet. Featuring 136 precision-cut solid wood blocks in both primary and natural colors, the Archiquest block set encourages young builders to create from the ground up. The set comes with a wooden box without a lid so an alternate tub or bag is recommended for easier storage. Whether inspiring free form creative design or guiding building skills from the illustrated instruction booklet, kids can experience growing confidence that comes with the power to construct their visions.

(Mindware)

Doubling down on the benefits of playing with blocks, the Keva set pairs brain development with the customary growth in motor skills that come with construction play. The Keva kit comes with 20 planks and a set of 30 double-sided puzzle cards. The cards offer a two-dimensional representation of a building and the challenge to young builders is to recreate the structure in three-dimensions. The flip side of the card offers the blueprint so kids can check their work or get the help they need to master the task. The variety of building projects ranges from structures to fanciful beasts, keeping the challenges fresh and engaging. Boosting kids understanding of geometry, composition, proportion and engineering, the KEVA Brain Builders offers the best blueprints for a new generation of architects!

(Melissa & Doug)

Characterized by Melissa & Doug’s child-friendly standards, the architectural units building block set is designed and sized for the smaller builder in mind. With 44 hand scrolled and smooth sanded blocks, little hands can quickly get a grip on the fundamentals of building. Featuring some of the distinct hallmark shapes of architecture (pillars, arches, peaked gables and more), there’s a sense of exploring the origins of classical building design along the way. The Architectural Units set pairs beautifully with other M & D building kits as kids may like to expand their projects into bigger and more complex designs.

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

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

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Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s out for summer. Teachers rejoice over the much-needed break. Parents like me however worry about how to keep our children engaged and focused during the hottest months of the year.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

The good news is that there are many simple ways for families to incorporate education into the daily routine. In fact anything we do can be a teaching tool, if we adjust our way of thinking. Here are 15 easy, budget-friendly ideas for summer learning using food, car rides, and exploration.

www.easternshoreparents.com

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Fun with Food Meals are a requirement and often the most hectic or mundane in a busy family’s schedule. Food can be educational and fun with options like these:

1. Family Picnic on the Floor – Grab a blanket and have your kids help set the ‘table’ on the floor in your home. Teach the children about etiquette. Look up the history of utensils and how they were made and changed over the centuries. 2. Storytelling Dinner by Candlelight – Have your usual meal around the table but do it only by the light of candles. Begin a story. Tell a few lines. Then pause and encourage another family member to continue the part where you left off. Each of you can take turns twisting the plot while critically thinking and building sentence structure. 3. Make a Recipe – Choose a dessert, snack or breakfast item that everyone in the family enjoys. Older children can help read instructions. Younger kids can pour and stir. Each person can measure ingredients. Discuss the temperature needed for baking. Many math and comprehension skills are used while cooking. Let’s not forget the practical art of patience while waiting for the food to be cooled or finished. 4. Foodie Talk – What’s on your plate? Discuss the food groups being represented on your tray. If something is missing, offer suggestions on how you can bring in that missing item for the next meal. Chat about where food comes from and why that is important. Plan the next several meals together. 5. Local Farm Visit – Now that you’ve talked about where food comes from with children, see it first-hand. Ask around for a local farm, farmers market or store to see. My kids and I have visited small farms, even those who don’t advertise public tours. We have seen so many interesting animals and been able to groom them, collect eggs or learn about their livelihood.

6+ Live Animals 45+ min Show & MUCH MORE Starting at $225 We Come To You!

Rev up the Ride Taxi moms and dads spend a lot of time in the car going to and from activities. I’ve learned to put learning activities inside our minivan to create a more enjoyable, knowledgeable ride:

6. Sign Spotting – Have your children locate every sign you encounter while on the road. If they can read or identify letters, have them do so. If not, teach them as you move forward or backwards. Identify the shapes of the signs you pass such as an octagon for a stop sign and a triangle for yield sign. Why stop with

2016 – 2017 School Assembly

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just signs? Check out bumper stickers and other identifiers too.

7. I-Spy – This classic game can be played anywhere but it’s particularly fun in the car. Family members choose a particular object or thing. They select the color of it and other children can guess what it might be. Doing this activity in the car causes everyone to use a keen eye to find things worth spying in tighter spaces. 8. Rhyming Words - My two children and I like to play rhyming word phrases. My threeyear-old and my eight-year-old love to conjure up words that end in the same sound. I will start a sentence and they will finish it. We also jump in with all words we can think of that rhyme then we switch to a new sound. This is a great vocabulary tool and oral poetry lesson too. 9. Drive the Cart – As you shop in local stores for household items, allow more time for kids to practice being the cart driver. On a less crowded aisle, have your child maneuver the shopping cart up and down. Let children enhance their motor skills as they turn corners and not bump into cans of food or cleaning supplies. This may be good practice for driving a real vehicle later in life. 10. Create an Emergency Fun Car Kit – Fill a tote bag or back pack with entertainment that the family may enjoy on unexpected delays or impromptu visits to new places. Have your children put their favorite things in the bag. Keep that bag in your car and change it out as needed. Suggestions to include: chalk for drawing on sidewalks, coloring books with crayons, sandals for a walk on the beach, and

extra dollars and coins for sudden ice cream or popsicle opportunities.

Explore More Families can learn by acting more like explorers. Propose your kids develop their own expeditions. Here’s a road map of ideas:

11. Scavenge About - I love to encourage my children to go on a scavenger hunt. From locating toilet paper to a kitchen pot or pan, my kids feel a sense of accomplishment as they mark each item off their quest list. If the weather is nice outside, have your hunters go exploring for leaves, rocks, bird feathers, and more. They can create their own list by writing or drawing things to seek. 12. Overcome Obstacles – Our family will routinely make an obstacle course in our back yard. We will grab random objects like a hula hoop, baseball bat, jump rope, lawn chairs, buckets and more. We take turns setting up the course, having participants run backwards or balance the bat in one hand while jumping on one foot. These races involve critical thinking and physical activity, the best of both worlds for children to expand their minds and limbs. 13. Question Box – Kids have so many questions and parents do not always have the time to address each inquiry. We created a question box. When we do not know the answer to a question or when we simply don’t have the time to go look for the fact, we

write it down and place it there for later. At a future time when we’re not busy, we pull out the question. We then turn to the internet or library as resources to learn.

14. Reading Adventure – Reading a book is always a great way to go on an adventure. Take your children to the local library to borrow books. They enjoy having a library card. Ask your kids questions about each book to test their comprehension. Look up meanings of words they don’t know. Start a glossary list of words learned. Let your kids choose their favorite stories and make their own summer reading lists. 15. Walk the Talk – Families can wind down a busy day by going for an evening walk around the neighborhood. A leisure stroll is a great way to help everyone feel less stressed. By talking casually with your children while being in nature, you all gain an appreciation for each other’s company and surroundings. This exercise is good for the mind, body and soul. These are just a few starting points to help kick off a summer of fun. Invite your kids to help in planning special projects and ventures. The entire family can learn and grow together before school is back in session again. ESP Mandy B. Fernandez is a writer living in Pensacola, Florida with her husband and two children. She writes creatively and professionally on topics such as family life, parenting, natural foods, education, and business. In addition she loves sharing humorous stories, poetry and essays about womanhood and motherhood. She is completing her first children’s book. Learn more about her at www.writtenbymandy.com.

Seize the Summer!

Specialized Tutoring for Learning Disabilities

Call for a consultation! 251-625-4020 Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

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Planning a Disney vacation can be quite an endeavor and even a daunting experience for some. With four iconic theme parks, two water parks, over 20 on-site resort hotels, more than 200 restaurants, and an outdoor shopping, dining and entertainment complex (Disney Springs), Walt Disney World can be intimidating. Here are a few suggestions to make the most of your Walt Disney World visit.

Stay on Disney Property

When my clients ask if they should stay on Disney property my answers is always YES! Disney hotels are all top quality and are very convenient. They all have Disney charm and character. Disney often has promotions available – from room discounts to free dining- which make staying on site more affordable. There are many benefits of staying in Disney hotels: Extended Disney Park Hours. These extended Theme Park hours (morning and night) known as Extra Magic Hours, offer guests of Walt Disney World Resort Hotels the unique opportunity to enjoy additional time in the Theme Parks. Magical Express. Complimentary transportation

MagicBands. They are bracelets and are the “key” to all of the conveniences of your Disney vacation. By simply scanning your MagicBand, you can access your guest room, enter the parks and FastPass+ experiences, pay for purchases at dining and retail locations, load your photos to your Memory Maker or Photopass account and more. MagicBands are only complimentary to Disney resort guests.

Plan Ahead

I always advise to start planning as early as possible. Ideally you should start planning at least seven months before you’d like to go to Disney. Try to decide according to your budget where you’d like to stay, how many days you will visit the parks, what type of park ticket is the best for your family, what restaurants you’d like to try, what experiences are suitable for your children according to their ages, height, etc. Book your dining reservations and your FastPasses+ for attractions on the day they become available for your vacation. The earlier you start planning your Walt Disney World vacation the easier the process will be!

Go Tech Savvy

between the airport and the Disney resorts. Complimentary Resort Transportation. Complimentary Resort Transportation (monorail, buses or boats) throughout Walt Disney World Resort. Disney Dining Plan. Disney dining plans are a convenient and flexible way to enjoy meals and snacks at many of the restaurants and food service locations at Walt Disney World Resort. Advance Dining Reservations. Advance FastPass+ Selections. Only guests of Walt Disney World Resort hotels can select FastPasses+ for their favorite attractions up to 60 days in advance.

Well, you really don’t have to be tech savvy, but you do need to familiarize yourself with the My Disney Experience account and the App (you can download it for free from the Apple or Google Play store). On your My Disney Experience account you will link your hotel reservations, tickets, dining, FastPass+ reservations and more. The mobile app is filled with handy features that lets you view and update your plans, make dining reservations, search maps of all 4 theme parks, get real-time attraction wait times and more.

Pack the right stuff

I always include an extensive list of “must pack” items in my client’s itineraries and touring plans. This is just part of that list:

You have the obvious stuff like comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hats, phone charger, hand sanitizer, lip balm, etc. Then the not so obvious stuff like the amazing Chilly Pads to keep you cool during the hot weather, a hand-held fan (preferably one with a mist), a poncho or rain jacket, gum (if you like to chew it, buy it in advance; you won’t find any for sale on Disney property), a small towel (you can get soaked on certain attractions), a change of clothes for the kids in a zip-lock bag (accidents happen!), first aid items, stickers and mini coloring books to keep the little ones busy while waiting in the lines. You can bring food and drinks inside Walt Disney World Resort parks so bring snacks and drinks for everybody. Bring your stroller or rent one at the park. After 5 days of non-stop walking kids will be happy to be strolled around.

Consult the Experts

Contact a Travel Planner specializing in Disney vacations. A Travel Planner can help you achieve that perfect Disney experience that you and your family will love. It can be difficult to determine the best time of year in which to vacation, deciding which resort is best for your family, setting up your My Disney Experience account, scheduling FastPass+ for attractions, and even making restaurant reservations. It doesn’t cost you any extra to book through a Travel Planner vs. booking directly with Disney. It can actually save you money because we are aware of new discounts codes and will apply them to your reservation as they become available.

Don’t over book activities, take breaks and be flexible.

You may find yourself wanting to experience all that Disney World offers (especially if it’s your first time). However this will likely make children overtired and parents frustrated. So don’t be afraid to take breaks. Also remember that life happens. So don’t be too disappointed if things don’t go exactly like you planned... be flexible and make the best out of these situations. Enjoy what you can and don’t stress too much over what you didn’t get to do. It is not possible to experience everything in one trip. Remember that you are making memories that will last a lifetime. Gabriela Lopez-Johnson is a Travel Planner in Fairhope, Alabama who assists local and international clients on planning unforgettable Disney vacations. You may reach her by email at BookingMagic@ aol.com or visit her Facebook page Booking Magic at www.facebook. com/BookingMagic.

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Amusement Parks and Outdoor Fun Alligator Alley (ad on page 20)

19950 Highway 71, Summerdale (251) 946-BITE; www.gatoralleyfarm.com Email: info@gatoralleyfarm.com Start your guided adventure with a walk to the elevated viewing platform, where you can see over 450 alligators now from hatchlings to mature adults, relaxing, sunbathing, courting and nesting. Come during feeding times and you can see the feeding crew walk right out to the alligators to feed them! After a breath taking view, continue your adventure with a nature walk on the elevated boardwalk and see alligators in their natural habitat along with other natural inhabitants such as turtles, ospreys, owls and bull frogs only a couple feet away In our gift shop area, we also display other amphibians, reptiles, and rare species. Open 7 Days a Week – 10:00am-5:00pm. Feedings 11:00; 1:00; 4:00. Cost - Adult-$12 (plus tax), Children-$10 (Ages 4-12) (plus tax), Seniors-$10 (65+) (plus tax) and 3 and under are free. Alligator food (chow) is $4 (plus tax). Call for more info or to schedule a b-day party!

Ferris Wheel at the Wharf (ad on page 15)

4985 Wharf Parkway, Orange Beach  (251) 224-1000; www.alwharf.com   We have the largest Ferris wheel in the Southeast. The Ferris wheel is over 112 feet and was made by Italy’s Technical Park. It can hold 140 people in 24 gondolas. Cost: $5.00 per ride. Visit our website for activities and events at The Wharf.

Spanish Fort Town Center Park/Splash Pad (ad on page 51)

30000 Town Center Avenue, Spanish fort www.spanishforttowncenter.com Town Center Park features a number of amenities for public use, including: a pavilion area, splash pad, state-of-the-art playground, horse shoe pits, bike racks, restroom facilities, sunburst fountain pond, and a fitness area. In addition, the park will serve as a host site for signature community events at Spanish Fort Town Center. Splash Pad is open 8 am to 8 pm. Park Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Waterville USA (ad on page 65)

906 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores (251) 948-2106; www.watervilleusa.com Join the family fun with the Waterpark, Flowrider, Mini Golf, Bounce House, Go-Karts, Arcade, Rollercoaster and much more! For park dates and times please visit our website. Take advantage of the discount with a SEASON PASS! Text WATERFUN to 45203 and sign up for cool coupons, specials, and more information.

Adventure Island

24559 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach  (251) 974-1500; www.adventure-island.com   Email: info@adventure-island.com Adventure Island features rides and thrills for the entire family. Ride go-karts, bumper boats and play laser tag. Experience adventure golf, the arcade or go on our paddle-boat rides. Kiddie rides available. Experience the eruption of the 5- story volcano as it comes alive Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

with fire and sound. For more information and rates visit us online. Open year round. Please call for specific daily hours and rates.

on the Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series, call 251-929-1466.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

1204 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores  (251) 968-5732; www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org Email: info@algulfcoastzoo.org   The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is tucked away just blocks from the beach and is home to more than 500 animals including lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, macaws, and more. There is also a petting zoo, reptile house, aviary, seasonal animal encounters, and daily animal shows in the summer. Also offering “Zoo Camp”. Hours are Monday – Sunday 9:00am to 4:00pm. Admission: 13 and up $11 (plus tax), Seniors (55+) $9 (plus tax), children 3-12 $8 (plus tax), Ages 2 and under are free.

Bancroft Street, Fairhope (behind the library)  (251) 929-1466; www.cofairhope.com   The City of Fairhope Summer Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings until July 7, 2016. The market will be set up behind the Fairhope Public Library in downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street. The market will feature local farmers, bakers, fresh Baldwin County produce, fresh cut flowers, local honey, plants, baked goods and more. The Fairhope Public Library will hold story times and children’s activities at 4 p.m. each Thursday at the market. The Haven will also be onsite each day for pet adoptions. For general information or to participate in the market, call 251-929-1466.

Brantley Farms Petting Zoo

Gulf Adventure Center

26214 Pollard Road, Daphne, (251) 626-5416 Petting Zoo, pony rides, train rides and birthday parties. Bring your family and learn about life on a farm! Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. for family tours. Admission is $5.50 and includes tour of the farm, and train ride. Add a pony ride for $3.25. Call to sign up for summer camp or birthday parties! Activities include hay rides, train rides, pony rides, planting a garden, collecting chicken eggs, shearing a sheep, saddling and riding ponies, washing the animals, learning to drive the pony cart, playing games, crafts and more. Call for details or to schedule a tour, party or camp. Visit us on Facebook for photos and event updates.

The Factory of Gulf Shores

18948 Oak Road West, Gulf Shores (251) 202-0900; www.thefactorygulfshores.com The Factory is a place where old and young alike can experience a thrill of playing! Trampolines, Arcade, Flight simulator, birthday parties, open jump, teen night and many other activities for tons of fun and play this summer! The Browning family takes fun very seriously and believes the world would be a better place if everyone would take a little time to play. That’s why our motto is: Play Now. Grow Up Later. Visit our website for specific activity details and pricing.

Fairhope “Glow in the Park

Fairhopers Community Park on Church St (across from K-1 Center); (251) 929-1466; www.cofairhope.com The City of Fairhope returns with the 2nd annual “Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series,” with three free family movies at Fairhopers Community Park on the first Thursdays in June, July, and August. Moviegoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and a picnic (no alcohol or glass containers) and relax with the whole family. The movies will begin at 8 p.m. Thursday, June 2: Aladdin; Thursday, July 7: Minions; Thursday, August 4: Inside Out. The Downtown Fairhope Business Association will be giving away glow-in-the-dark items. The movies will be shown at Fairhopers Community Park on Church Street in downtown Fairhope and are sponsored by the City of Fairhope Public Utilities and the Downtown Fairhope Business Association. For more information

Fairhope Farmers Market

21101 State Highway 135, Gulf Shores (877) 947-8434, (251) 948-9494 www.gulfadventurecenter.com Fly high above white sand dunes and crystal clear waters on our Hummingbird Ziplines. Participant weight: minimum weight of 65 pounds and a maximum weight of 260 pounds per person and must be at least 8 years of age. Explore the coast on a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy the natural wonders and wildlife that only the Gulf Coast can provide. Open Monday – Sunday. Reservations requested.

Magnolia Farms Paintball

15275 County Road 49, Summerdale (251) 382-5618 or (251) 605-7216 www.magnoliafarmspaintball.com Ideal for ages 10 and up. Hours are Saturday 10am – 5pm and Sunday 11am-5pm.

Mobile International Speedway

7800 Park Boulevard, Irvington (251) 957-2026; www. mobilespeedway.net Alabama’s fastest ½ mile track featuring exciting oval track action including the Southern super Series, winged spring cars, demolition derby and more. Visit our website for race schedules and events.

Music and Movie in the Park

Heritage Park, 101 East Laurel Avenue, Foley (near the intersection of Ala. 59 and U.S. 98) (251) 943-1200; www.cityoffoley.com Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy a free movie, music and entertainment under the stars. Concessions will be available for purchase. May 13,2016 form 5:30 – 8pm. Movie: Finding Nemo Music: Christina Christian Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo- 5pm – 6:30 p.m. Animal encounter May 20, 2016 from 6pm – 8pm Movie: Inside Out Music: Shelby Brown Shelby Brown- 6-8 p.m. Local singer featured on “The Voice” will be performing in beautiful Heritage Park.

Pirates Island Golf

3201 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores (251) 968-4653, www.piratesislandgolf.com Email: pigulfshores@me.com

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The adventures and legends of infamous pirates come to life in our award-winning theme park settings. Putt your way through caves, over footbridges, and under cascading waterfalls, all amidst a fun-filled atmosphere of natural wonders, extraordinary landscaping, and enchanting pirate lore. Adults $10.50; children 4-12 $8.50; Under 3 years Free with playing adult. Contact us for birthday parties and group rates.

Styx River Tube and Canoe Rental

25625 Water Rapids Road, Robertsdale (251) 960-1161; www.floatstyx.com Styx River Tube and Canoe Rental offers complete round trip services for your float trip enjoyment. Your trip will end back at your car. Styx River is a beautiful river with crystal clear water. The winding slow current takes you through primitive rural landscapes and has ideal fishing, swimming and picnic areas. Styx River Tube & Canoe Rental is open 7 days a week from Easter till Labor Day. No reservations required. Please call for specific information.

The Track

3200 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores (251) 968-8111; www.gulfshorestrack.com Email: trackinfo@gulfshorestrack.com Go-Karts, Mini-Golf, Bumper Rides, and lots of family fun! Summer hours; Open Monday - Sunday. 9 a.m. until close. Visit website for tickets and package pricing. Group and party packages available.

Wales West

13670 Smiley Street, Silverhill (888) 569-5337; www.waleswest.com Wales West is offering 2 fun options for 2016 Summer. The Summer Fun Day Pass may be purchased any day of the week and used 9:00am-9:00pm. Activities include a spring-fed Lake, Waterfall, Sandy Beach for play and sunning, Zoom Flume Water Slide, Fishing, Indoor Pool, and Playground. Train rides on Big and Little Trains included, at 1:00pm and 4:00pm. Admission is $16 per person, tax included; 2 and under, Free. Train Ride (only) tickets may be purchased for the above train schedule, $8 for Big Train, $12 for Big and Little Train, per person, tax included; 2 and under, Free. Purchases may be made in Gift Shop and Tea Room while Train Station is open for rides.

Weeks Bay Plantation

Pick-your-own Blueberry Farm 12562 Mary Ann Beach Road, Fairhope (251) 279-8745; www.weeksbayplantation.com Email: tynes@weeksbayplantation.com Weeks Bay Plantation is a place for all our neighbors near and far, and our friends, old and new. Come and pick some nutritious, delicious blueberries. Sling some arrows. Teach the kids some important things about good foods. Sit in the breeze and soak up some music for the soul. We offer locations for Weddings, Corporate/Non-Profit gatherings, and Field Trips. We now have 2 cabins available for a fun Getaway. Visit our website for upcoming events and picking times.

X-Treme Paintball

900-A Schillinger Road South, Mobile (251) 639-0399; www.xpb.us Hours of Operation: Saturday from 10:00 a.m. - Dark, Sunday from 12:00 p.m. - Dark. Field hours on Saturday and Sunday are subject to participation. Please call or visit our website for specific information and pricing.

Zooland Mini Golf

1204 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores (251) 968-7888; Visit us on Facebook! Colorful animal statues decorate our miniature golf course just steps from the zoo.

Nature Trails / marine education / Environmental Dauphin Island Sea Lab (ad on page 26)

101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island  (251) 861-2141; www.disl.org  Explore the four key ecosystems of coastal Alabama at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. The Estuarium’s visual and engaging exhibits showcase the plants, animals and other natural resources found in the Mobile Tensaw River Delta, the Mobile Bay, the Barrier Islands and the Northern Gulf of Mexico. Our summer excursions and camps take you into the salt marsh, across the beach and into the maritime forest for a hands-on learning experience. Bring your friends and family. Summer hours: Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Estuarium Admission: Adults $11, Children 5 years - 18 years (with a Student ID) $6, Seniors $8. Group rates available.  Summer camp information and registration online at www. disl.org.

Action Outdoors – Dauphin Island

650 LeMoyne Drive, Dauphin Island (251) 861-2201; www.actionoutdoors.org Action Outdoors offers boat trips into the waters surrounding Dauphin Island. We offer a safe comfortable trip. If you are looking for an adventure with Dolphins, planning a school field trip/eco tour, romantic cruise, or to do some inshore fishing, we can accommodate your needs. “Built in touch tanks provide personal experiences with many kinds of fish and other animals found in our waters. The Duke”- Action Outdoors boat “The Duke” is a 44 foot Bonner can carry 42 passengers along with her crew in bays and coastal waters within 3 miles of shore. For further information, please visit our website or contact us at the number listed above.

ADCNR Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries

30571 Five Rivers Blvd, Spanish Fort (251) 626-5474; www.outdooralabama.com For more information about hunting, fishing, programs, events, canoe trails, outdoor activities and regulations please call or visit our website.

Audubon Bird Sanctuary - Dauphin Island

2134 Bienville Boulevard, Mobile www.alabamacoastalbirdingtrail.com Named one of the top four locations in North America for viewing spring migrations! The Sanctuary consists of 137 acres of maritime forest, marshes and dunes, including a lake, a swamp and a beach. Meanwhile, the Sanctuary’s 3-mile trail system was designated recently as a National Recreational Trail. For detailed individual trail maps, visit our website.

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Back Country Trail

(251) 948-7275 or (251) 981-1180 www.backcountrytrail.com Email: trail@cityoforangebeach.com Explore the beauty and diversity of the Back Country Trail! Seven trails among six distinct ecosystems make up more than 15 miles of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail complex through Orange Beach, Gulf Shores and the Gulf State Park. Explore the beautiful of the Butterfly Garden, rock climb in the Boulder Park, Freshwater Marshes and the Coastal Hardwood Swamps. Capture adventure while biking, jogging, walking, plant and tree identification, wildlife, geocaching, Eco tours and much more! For trail maps, pictures, locations and other information please visit our website.

Bellingrath Gardens Wonderful Wednesdays

12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore (251) 973-2217; www.bellingrath.org   Get ready for a fun, informative summer of at Bellingrath Gardens and Home! Our popular lectures and workshops help Gulf Coast gardeners and enthusiasts make the most of our extended growing season. Each workshop covers a special feature of the Gardens or Home and includes tips for making your garden more spectacular. Cruise along Fowl River with our friends from Delta Safaris! Dates and information may change so please call or visit our website to verify events.

Bicycle Trails – Mobile and Baldwin County

(251) 432-1638; www.mobileunited.org/MU_trails.php Trail maps for Mobile and Baldwin County areas. Interested in finding a Specialty ride or joining a weekly ride, please visit www.bicyclemobile.org.

Birding Trails

www.alabamacoastalbirdingtrail.com The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail is a birder’s paradise. Our sun-drenched coast is a popular resort area for a variety of feathered visitors and year-round residents. Alabama’s Gulf Coast is a paradise not only for birders, but all visitors with many different outdoor interests. We remind all birders to exercise care while enjoying the birds along the coast; be mindful of the birds and their habitat, and respect other birders. Visit our website for trails and other information.

Bon Secour National Wildlife Reserve

12295 State Highway 180, Gulf Shores  (251) 540-7720; www.fws.gov/bonsecour; bonsecour@fws.gov   The Bon Secour NWR contains 7,000 acres of wildlife habitat for migratory birds, nesting sea turtles and the endangered Alabama beach mouse. The refuge has been named as one of the 10 natural wonders of Alabama. Refuge brochures and maps are available at trailhead kiosks and outside the refuge office.

Delta Explorer at Historic Blakeley State Park

34745 State Highway 225, Spanish Fort (251) 626-5581 or (251) 626-0798 www.blakeleypark.com/delta.asp Email: blakeleypark@aol.com Educational and FUN! Book at tour (approximately 2 hours) aboard the “Delta Explorer”, combine it with a *guided tour of Historic Blakeley State Park for an outstanding adventure. Take a journey with us by boat through the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. This is one of Alabama’s Ten Natural Wonders. Visit this wilderness eco-system where you will find wetland habitats ranging from marsh to cypress-tupelo swamp and bot-

tomland hardwoods. Experience this adventure from the comfort of the covered “Delta Explorer” eco-tour boat, complete with bench seating and restroom facility. Please visit our website for schedules and pricing.

Environmental Studies Center

6101 Girby Road, Mobile (251) 221-5000; www.mcpsesc.com The Environmental Studies Center is a natural sciences education facility designed to provide unique learning experiences. Featuring over 500 acres of rich woodlands, pine and bay forests, swamps, freshwater streams, carnivorous plant bogs, and a twenty-acre lake. Facilities include numerous nature and hiking trails, an outdoor amphitheater, covered pavilions, a weather station and STARLAB Planetarium, live animal exhibits, native plants garden, and multipurpose instruction building. The building contains an auditorium, library, and classroom/exhibit space containing live reptiles and amphibians, a salt-water aquarium, and numerous preserved specimens commonly encountered throughout southern Alabama. A donation of $2 per visitor is appreciated. Call for hours and events.

Five Rivers Delta Resource Center

30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort  (251) 625-0814; www.outdooralabama.com/5-riversalabamas-delta-resource-center   Explore all the Delta has to offer! Preview some of what the Delta offers in the state-of-the-art Tensaw Theater. Movies allow you to sample a variety of recreation opportunities and highlights of the Delta and Alabama’s natural history. Take a boat ride from the dock through Sardine Pass into the Blakeley River. Alligators, blue herons, and various shore birds – maybe even a bald eagle will catch your eye. Rent a canoe or kayak and

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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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paddle the lower delta. The Bartram Canoe Trail has a camping pad. Walk the nature trails, have a picnic or enjoy some of the area’s best bird watching. The Apalachee Exhibit Hall features changing exhibits reflecting the Delta. Five Rivers offers numerous programs for all ages throughout the year. Find us on Facebook! Call for tour times, reservations and more information. Open 7 days a week, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Bowling, Skating, Movies, Arcades and Indoor Fun

Global Wildlife Center

(ad on page 42)

26389 LA-40, Folsom, LA (985) 796-3585; www.globalwilldlife.com Enjoy a one and a half hour guided Safari Wagon tour over 900 acres of beautiful Louisiana countryside complete with 12 ponds and a lake. During the tour you’ll come face to face with bison, giraffe, zebra, camels, eland, and much more! The animals roam free - It’s Africa, in Louisiana! How long is a Giraffe’s Tongue? You’ll find out during your tour when you have the opportunity to feed one right from your souvenir feed cup! Adults and children alike experience the excitement of feeding the animals during the safari while remaining safe and secure in our custom-built covered wagons with padded seating. The Global Wildlife Center is unique because we foster a personal interaction with the animals and believe that touch is the best teaching tool. Be prepared for an exhilarating and educational adventure! Group tours and Private Pinz tours available. Open year round, 7 days a week. Please call for safari check–in times and availability. Tour times updated every Friday.

Weeks Bay Reserve

11300 U.S. Highway 98 Fairhope (251) 928-9792; www.weeksbayreserve.com Email: LG.Adams@dcnr.alabama.gov Weeks Bay Reserve encompasses over 6,000 acres of land and water in and around Weeks Bay and along Mobile Bay. The Reserve has a free educational visitor center and two boardwalks. One boardwalk is behind the Reserve Visitor Center and leads to Weeks Bay; the pitcher plant bog boardwalk connects to Fish River. The Reserve is open 6 days a week, Monday-Saturday from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Closed on Sunday. The Reserve is closed for state holidays, but the boardwalks remain open. Visit our website for events, photos and information.

Fairhope United Methodist Church – Christian Life Center 155 South Section Street, Fairhope (251) 928-1148; www.fairhopeumc.com Huge variety of sports activities offered MondaySaturday including youth sports camps, softball, basketball, golf, outdoor excursions, family running, Tai Chi Stretching, family fun nights, and much, much more. Open to the Public! Please call the church office for specific activities and times.

Kangarooz (ad on page 32)

31000 Bass Pro Drive, Spanish Fort (behind Bass Pro shop) (251) 382-1973; www.mykangarooz.com We are the largest indoor inflatable center on the Mississippi and Alabama Gulf Coast with over 23,000 square feet of play! Play on our inflatable jumpers, obstacle courses, and slides. Kangarooz has open play so come by and play with us or schedule a birthday party! Please call or check our website for open play times and pricing.

4720 Main Street, Orange Beach (at The Wharf)  (251) 224-5297(LAZR); www.arenaorangebeach.com   Visit us for Great entertainment for all ages, and perfect for birthday parties, civic outings, and family vacations. We offer Laser Tag and Bazookaball for all ages. Open Monday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Sundays from 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. For more information and rates visit our website.

Breakout Mobile

3090 Dauphin Sq. Connector, Mobile (251) 460-1284; www.breakoutmobile.com You have one goal: escape the room in under 1 hour. You’ll work together to solve puzzles, crack codes, find hidden items, and more in order to escape! Each game is a real‑life escape room adventure for a small group. It’s great for groups of friends, family, or coworkers. Take team‑building to a whole new level!

Bricks 4 Kidz

(251) 300-4796; www.bricks4kidz.com/mobile Bricks 4 Kidz classes provide an extraordinary atmosphere for children, where we learn, we build, we play… with LEGO® bricks. Kids can learn and grow with our fun-filled model plans, which are designed just for us by architects and engineers! Our unique kits reinforce S.T.E.M. based principles while using LEGO® Bricks. Summer Camps are available for children ages 3-13+. Please call for dates and times. Find us on Facebook, www.facebook.com/B4KMobile.

Eastern Shore Lanes

Spa-Tea-Da Girls Spa and Tea Parties (ad on page 47)

Arena-The Next Level Laser Tag/Bazookaball

3938 Government Blvd., Mobile (251) 447-4846; www.spa-tea-da.com Spa-Tea-Da! is a quaint day spa just for girls and a boutique party spot in Mobile. We have many fun activities planned throughout the summer sure to cure a girls summer boredom blues. Summer etiquette classes and more. Check our events tab on our website for more information.

10460 Eastern Shore Boulevard, Spanish Fort (behind Eastern Shore Centre) (251) 625-3400; www.eslanes.com   Bowling, Laser Tag, Arcade and Dusty’s Sports Bar & Grill, Monday – Saturday at 9:00 a.m. – close. Sunday hours are from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. visit our website for weekly activity events.

Fat Daddy’s Arcade

24565 Period Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach  (251) 980-1050; www.fatdaddysarcadeorangebeach.com Featuring tons of the most popular games on the

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Come hang out with SpongeBob Squarepants! Sunday, June 5 from 11am - 2pm

906 Gulf Shores Parkway • Gulf Shores, AL • 251.948.2106 65

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market. Find everything from basketball free throws to Guitar Hero, racing games, interactive games and lots more. Ask about our birthday parties! Check our website for hours of operation and events.

12am; Friday – Saturday 9am – 1am; Sundays 11am – 12am. Please call or check our website for specific event times and summer events.

The Fieldhouse

65 Government Street, Mobile (251) 208-6873; www.exploreum.com 8,500-square-foot, hands-on discovery playground with IMAX theatre where learning about science and nature is nothing but fun for children and adults of all ages! Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

26037 Capital Drive, Daphne (251) 626-0190; www.trainatthefieldhouse.com The Fieldhouse offers training sessions in baseball, softball, t-ball and speed and agility for athletes ages 4-18 years. We utilize our indoor training facility to help introduce sports to young participants, and help the experienced athlete take his or her game to a higher level. We partner with coaches and athletes at the University of South Alabama to provide a unique training experience that is sure to be remembered! We also offer private lessons year round, as well as memberships and team packages. Dates and details for training can be found on our website.

Get Air

842 Schillinger Road South, Mobile (251) 241-3101; www.getairmobile.com Wall to wall trampolines, dodge ball, foam pits, basketballdunk, toddler jump area and birthday parties. Hours: Monday - Thursday – 10:00am-10:00pm, Friday - Saturday – 10:00am- Midnight and Sunday 10:00am-8:00pm.

The Gulf Bowl

2881 South Juniper Street, Foley  (251) 943-4575; www.gulfbowl.com Email: gulfbowl@gulftel.com   The Gulf Bowl offers open play bowling, birthday parties, arcade games, great restaurant, pool room, laser tag & lots of Fun!  Open Monday – Thursday 9am –

Gulf Coast Exploreum

Gulf Quest

155 S Water St, Mobile (251) 436-8901; www.gulfquest.org With 90 interactive exhibits, simulators, displays and theaters, GulfQuest is a place you’ll want to visit often. The exhibits are housed on multiple decks of a lifesized replica of a container ship, so come ready to walk and browse and take your time. There are many places to sit and enjoy the view, both inside the museum and outside overlooking the beautiful Mobile River and the busy of Port of Mobile. Hours of Operation: TuesdayFriday 9:00am-5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am-6:00pm and Sunday 11:00am-6:00pm. Admission: Adults (18-64) $18.00, Youth (13-17) $16.00, Child (5-12) $14.00, Seniors (65+) $16.00, Active Military (w/ ID) $16.00 and College Students (w/ ID) $16.00.

Hot Wheels Skate Center

616 Whispering Pines Road, (251) 626-5120 or (251) 753-4879; www.hotwheelsdaphne.com; We take enormous pride in creating a safe, fun and affordable environment for people of all ages! Hot

Wheels even offers FREE WIFI! Check out our website for skating times and events and our summer day camp for kids. We look forward to seeing you soon! Make sure you register for FREE skating at www.kidsskatefree.com for your FREE skating passes!

Rotolo’s

100 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope (251) 990-4005; www.Facebook.com/ RotolosOfFairhope Play in the arcade and enjoy a delicious dinner! Kids eat FREE on Tuesdays 5pm – close. One child eats free per the purchase of the adult entrée. Ask about party packages and catering. Visit us on Facebook!

Historical Sites USS Alabama Battleship (ad on page 66)

2073 Battleship Parkway, Mobile (251) 433-2703, www.ussalabama.com At Battleship Memorial Park you’ll walk the decks of a mighty battleship. Go below in a World War II submarine. View cockpits of combat aircraft. You’ll also see tanks, a Vietnam River Patrol Boat, and a plane like the one flown by the Tuskegee Airmen. It’s all here, all waiting to be discovered by you! Ages 12 and up $15, Ages 6 – 11 $6, Ages 5 and under are free. Ages 55+ are $13. Military discounts also available.

Foley Railroad Museum

125 East Laurel Avenue, Foley  (251) 943-1818; www.foleyrailroadmuseum.com

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Email: foleymuseum@gulftel.com Free Model Train Exhibit including .25 mile of track with double stacked tracks. Join the Caboose Club, volunteer to run the trains, or just take the family and enjoy! Hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday Only, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Visit our website for photos and upcoming activities.

Fort Conde

111 South Royal Street, Mobile, (251) 208-7304 www.museumofmobile.com/ft_conde.php In this immersive, interactive exhibit in the heart of Historic Fort Conde, visitors can learn about the people who colonized early Mobile. See historic artifacts of Native Americans and Europeans who played large roles in the evolution of the Port City in a time shaped by innovation, conquest, plunder, piracy, and war. Explore offshoot exhibit rooms called Lifeways that give visitors a taste of what Colonial life was like. Great place for kids and families to learn and explore! Admission is free. Open Monday - Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Sundays from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Fort Gaines

51 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island (251) 861-6992; www.dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines/ Fort Gaines was the battle site of the famous Battle of the Bay in August 1864. See the battlements and soldiers’ living quarters, which were used from the 1800’s to 1946. Lots of fun for families and kids! Admission Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cost - Children (5-12) $4.00, Adults (Ages 13+) - $8.00.

Historic Blakely State Park

34745 State Hwy 225, Spanish Fort (251) 626-0798; www.blakeleypark.com Tour the preserved Civil War battlefield with its Confederate and Union breastworks and fortifications. Walk or bike on miles of trails or take a 2-hour eco-boat tour. Special events are scheduled throughout the year. Check our webpage for more information. The Park is open 8:00am to dusk, seven days a week. Adults $4.00, Children 6-12: $3.00, Children under 6: Free.

Kids Days in Bienville Square – Thursdays

www.ncsmobile.org Kids Days Dates: June 9, 16, 23, and 30, 2016 from

10 am – 1:00 pm. Bring the kids out to Bienville Square for summertime fun and enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts and visits from The Dauphin Island Sea Lab, the Mobile Police and Fire-Rescue Departments and much more!

Mobile Bay Ferry

51 State Highway 180 West, Gulf Shores (251) 861-3000, www.mobilebayferry.com Daily departures are every 1 1/2 hours. Ferry runs between Dauphin Island and Fort Morgan. For fares and other information, visit the website.

Mobile Botanical Gardens

5151 Museum Drive, Mobile (251) 342-0555; www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org Email: mbg2@bellsouth.net Mobile Botanical Gardens is a beautiful 100-acre site of cultivated gardens and woodland trails. Explore on your own or schedule a guided tour. Also visit our Botanical Garden Marketplace on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. until the end of June. Many fun classes, activities and events are available. Hours: Closed Monday & Tuesday, Wednesday – Sunday 9am – 4pm. Admission: Adults $5, Members: Free, Children 12 and under Free. Hours: Dawn until Dusk. Check website for more information.

National Naval Aviation Museum

Naval Air Station, Pensacola 1750 Radford Boulevard, Pensacola (850) 452-3604; www.navalaviationmuseum.org Email: museuminfo.navalaviation@mchsi.com Enjoy the hands-on history of Naval Aviation and see more than 150 beautifully restored aircraft and over 4,000 artifacts representing Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard Aviation. Feel the thrill in our Flight Simulators or visit the Naval Aviation Memorial Theatre and catch all the drama and power of our amazing IMAX® films. Then refresh with a tasty lunch or dessert in the authentic Cubi Bar Café. Open daily 9am – 5pm. Admission is Free. Check website for information.

Orange Beach Indian and Sea Museum

Oyster Trail

(251) 438.5690; www.theoystertrail.com The Oyster Trail is a fun, educational and public art treasure hunt throughout coastal Alabama. Look for the large fiberglass oysters that have been painted, decorated and bedazzled by artists throughout the area and which can be found along the street, within parks, in lobbies, and well…wherever. Each oyster has a fact plaque that includes important information about the oyster’s ecological and economic benefit to Mobile Bay. Visitors to the Trail are guided by a Trail Map, which provides locations of the oysters. Trail Maps can be found in hotels, shops, visitor centers, etc. or can be downloaded from our website. Remember to complete the scavenger hunt form and return it to win Oyster Trail Prizes!

University of South Ala Archaeology Museum 6052 USA Drive South, Mobile, (251) 460-6106 www.southalabama.edu/org/archaeology/museum Come and discover the rich prehistory and history of the Gulf Coast. Hours: Tuesday - Friday: 9:00am4:00pm, Saturday: 12:00pm- 4:00pm (Sunday and Monday: Closed)

Water Fun, Cruises and Tours Waterville USA (ad on page 65)

25805 John Snook Drive, Orange Beach (251) 981-8545, www.obparksandrec.com The building that houses the Indian & Sea Museum

was originally built in 1910 as a schoolhouse. The museum houses local artifacts and memorabilia relating to our Native American and fishing heritage. Families of early fisherman have donated supplies and collectibles that make us mindful of the challenges and achievements in the early days of our fishing industry. Open Tuesday & Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. If you have a group of 5 or more please call (251) 981-6039 to make reservations. Admission is Free.

906 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores (251) 948-2106; www.watervilleusa.com Email: wville@gulftel.com Join the family fun with the Waterpark, Flowrider, Mini

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Golf, Bounce House, Go-Karts, Arcade, Rollercoaster and much more! For park dates and times please visit watervilleusa.com.Take advantage of the discount with a SEASON PASS! Text WATERFUN to 45203 and sign up for cool coupons, specials, and more information.

Bottoms Up Safari

27075 Marina Road, Orange Beach (251) 269-0073; www.bottomsupsafari.com Come explore the underwater wildlife of Orange Beach, Alabama with Captain Ellis on his custombuilt 32 foot U.S. Coastguard approved pontoon boat “Bottoms Up”. If you are looking for something better than the usual dolphin cruise in Orange Beach or Gulf Shores, Bottoms Up Safari is it. Our cruise becomes an interactive experience and once we load our live water trough with the treasures from the sea bottom, you will be amazed at the astounding number of species right in front of your eyes. Study and feel the sea life.... kids and adults alike will love this up close view. We offer Marine Life Cruises, Sunset Cruises, Low Country Boil Cruises, and Party Cruises. Call or visit our website for more information.

Delta Airboat Express

3733 Battleship Parkway, Spanish Fort  (Behind Oringinal Oyster House) (251) 370-7089; www.airboatexpress.com   Take a tour with us and experience a treat for the Whole family! Learn about the wildlife in the MobileTensaw Delta while having an educational, fun airboat ride that the whole family will enjoy! Tours depart from the Original Oyster House on The Causeway. We are open for reservations 7 days a week. Must call for reservations. Please visit our website for hours and rates.

Dolphin Cruises - Cold Mil Fleet

5749 Bay La Launch Avenue, Orange Beach (251) 943-3510 or (877) 659-9011 www.dolphincruises.com One and 1/2 hour journey into the inland waters. Our goal is to get the energetic mammals to play their favorite game… surfing! The dolphins love to surf along the side of the boat jumping, rolling, and catching glances at their spectators. Please call 3-5 days ahead to reserve your cruise. A credit card is required for reservations. Sunset cruise reservations and groups of 10 or more must be PREPAID.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

Dolphins Down Under

27267 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach (251) 968-5386; www.dolphinsdownunder.net Join us and search for wild dolphins aboard our glassbottom catamarans. Our knowledgeable captains and crew will guide you and your family on an exciting, informative quest in the smooth waters of the back bays to watch the dolphins frolic and play in their natural environment. We offer dolphin tours, birthday parties and lunch cruises. For more information and reservations call or visit our website.

Down Under Dive Shop

1129 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores (251) 968-Dive (3483), www.downunderdiveshop.com Email: info@downunderdiveshop.com We offer Daily Walk-on Charters, Snorkeling Tours, Scuba Instruction, Kayak Rental, and SUP (Stand Up Paddling) rentals. Visit our website for detailed rental and instruction information.

Eastern Shore Centre Fountain

30500 Hwy 181, Spanish Fort (251) 625-0060; www.easternshorecentre.com Beat the heat by playing in the fun fountain at the Eastern Shore Centre! Eastern Shore Centre’s Fountain is turned on during regular mall hours. Monday-Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Sunday, 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. *In the case of strong winds, rain, thunder, lightning, etc., the fountain will be turned off.

Fairhope Fly Shop (Church Mouse)

14 South Church Street, Fairhope (251) 928-1619; www.thechurchmouse.com Fairhope Fly Shop offers fly tying and fly casting lessons. Ask Spencer when the next class is starting and learn fly techniques from the Eastern Shore expert! Visit our website for updated information.

Five Rivers Outfitters/Bartram Canoe Trail

30841 Five Rivers Blvd Spanish Fort (251) 259-8531; www.outdooralabama.com/5-riversbartram-canoe-kayak-landing Five Rivers Outfitters overlooks the beautiful MobileTensaw Delta. If you’re up for an unforgettable adventure, rent a canoe or kayak to explore the beautiful

Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Rentals are available for half or full days and guided trips are also available. Business hours are from 8am – 5pm.

Go Go Kayaks

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921 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores (251) 752-5500; www.gogokayaks.com Fort Morgan number: (251) 540-7529 We rent paddleboards & kayaks. Best of all, WE DELIVER FUN! We understand not everyone has the same desire on how they want to enjoy their day. You can come by our shop to pick up your equipment or we can bring it to your rental house. If you’re looking for a super easy outing you can launch directly from our Gulf Shores location. Rent for a day, rent for a week. We make it easy for you. Please visit our website for more information.

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Gulf Coast Ducks

2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile (251) 406-8262; www.gulfcoastducks.com Heads up Gulf Coast, a new tourist attraction is soon to launch at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park. Gulf Coast Ducks will begin giving amphibious tours in Mobile Bay, the Mobile River, and downtown Mobile starting in late May. The thrill of driving on land only to then splash down into the water something you will not want to miss. Duck tours will last approximately 70 minutes and will feature a quacktastic family thrilling experience. Come join us on a tour of Mobile like you have never seen it before!

L.A. Aloft Hot Air Balloon

(251) 981-2628; www.hotairballoonist.com Hot Air Balloon Rides are available 7 days a week, twice daily - just after sunrise or 3 hours prior to sunset – depending on the weather. The ride is 1 - 1 ½ hours. The balloon holds 3 passengers plus pilot. Please call for rates and reservations.

Nautica Ltd.

(251) 510-SAIL (7245), www.nauticaltd.com Email: nauticaltd@nauticaltd.com Sailing School and Charters. Yachts 25’ to 40’. Nautica’s programs are tailored to the needs of each

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student, from novice to the sailor who wants to renew his or her “sea legs”, whatever your skill level. Based at The Grand Hotel, Point Clear. Please call for specific class information.

Pirate Ship Cruise

4575 South Wilson Boulevard, Orange Beach (251) 981-4127 Bring your young pirates aboard the American Star for a swashbuckling Pirate Adventure. Your mini mates will have the opportunity to act like pirates, get their face painted and learn some pirate lingo. Once on board the young pirates will defend the ship in a gun battle, sing along as the pirate crew sings songs of the sea, hear true stories of pirate and privateer attacks and hunt for lost gold and treasure! Free soft drinks provided. Visit website for more details including life vest requirements. Birthday Party packages available.

Sailaway Charters

24231 Gulf Bay Road, Orange Beach (251) 974-5055; www.sailorskip.com Email: sailorskip@yahoo.com Explore Longs Bayou and Wolf Bay on this narrated nature tour with Capt. Skip. This is fun for the entire family...all ages. You’ll see and identify: oysters, blue crabs, shrimp, and a variety of fish and birds. You might even see dolphin on this 2-hour trip in protected waters. This is a hands on trip. This is much more than just another dolphin cruise. It’s a fun, informative, learning experience! Also offering 2 or 3-hour sailing adventure aboard a 48’ ketch.

Southern Rose Parasailing and Dolphin Trips 27212 Marina Road, Orange Beach (855) 524-8837; www.southernrosedolphintrips.com

When you go on a tour with us, seeing a dolphin is an absolute guarantee. The boat ride is very relaxing and enjoyable experience for individuals, couples, and entire families. When it comes to our parasailing adventures, we’re pleased to provide you with the rare and exciting opportunity to fly anywhere from 500-800 feet in the air! In addition to our regular dolphin tours and parasailing, we also offer a Sunset Dolphin & Dinner Cruise for large groups, Jet Ski tours, and other water sport adventures.

Taking Off Hot Air Balloon Rides

(251) 970-FLYU (3598); www.gulfviewballooning.com Reservations: (800) 979-3370 Taking Off Hot Air Balloon Company is your one stop Alabama Gulf Coast hot air balloon headquarters! Add an exciting and unique dimension to your summer gathering, party, family activity or romantic outing. Gently lift off into an adventure where you’ll experience the beauty of the Alabama Gulf Coast from a whole new vantage point! Leave your cares on the ground and marvel at the serenity of being close to the clouds. We also offer from 2 hour – 8 hour Boat tours for gulf or inshore fishing, sight seeing and sunset cruising. Visit our website for more information and photos. Call today to reserve your next adventure!

Underwater Works, Inc.

24208 US Hwy 98, Fairhope (251) 928-5550, www.alabamadive.com Dive into the Gulf of Mexico with the professionals from UnderWater Works. Imagine spearfishing off the Alabama gulf coast. The South East region of Alabama has the largest artificial reef program in the nation con-

sisting of coral reefs, shipwrecks, oil rigs, and military surplus. This provides great opportunities for the hunter or photographer. UnderWater Works specializes in scuba diving instruction offering both SSI and PADI open water diver courses.

Wind and Water Learning Center

26233 Canal Road, Orange Beach (251) 424-5909; www.windandwaterlearning.com Email: ncantrell@cityoforangebeach.com The Wind & Water Learning Center is a non-profit organization with the City of Orange Beach committed to enhancing our community by providing coastal access, facilities, equipment, and education for sailing and paddling sports. We accommodate people of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds. Our current offerings include youth Sail Camp, kayaking classes, kayak fishing trips, and paddle boarding classes that are scheduled to begin in May. Through the variety of classes the Center hosts, residents and visitors can explore our scenic back bays.

Recreation Centers Bay Minette Recreation Complex

611 McMeans Avenue, Bay Minette, (251) 580-2546 www.cityofbayminette.org/Recreation-Department Email: nburt@ci.bay-minette.al.us The Bay Minette Recreation Complex is home to the Rec & Roll Skate Center and the Strike City Lanes bowling alley. The Recreation Department also provides classes in dance and gymnastics, and quilting and a summer “Kelly’s Kids” camp. The Rec Depart-

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ment offer oversees city league play in basketball, softball, and tackle football. Please visit our website or call for specific program information.

Daphne Recreation Center

2605 US Highway 98, Daphne  (251) 621-3703; www.daphneal.com   The Daphne Recreation Department is committed to serving the community through every avenue of recreation. From sports leagues, to fitness & dance classes, to music and Special Events, we strive to offer you a variety of opportunities to maintain an active lifestyle. For information on Recreation, sports, classes such as health & fitness, dance, karate, and upcoming special events please visit our website and view the parks and recreation section.

David L. Bodenhamer Recreation Center

310 West 19th Avenue, Gulf Shores  (251) 968-1420; www.gulfshoresal.gov   Email: nard@gulfshoresal.gov The David L. Bodenhamer Recreation Center is a membership based community center that offers a variety of recreational activities including a full service fitness room, game area, indoor heated pool with lap lanes, racquetball courts, regulation size gymnasium, saunas, AquaClimb wall, fitness classes and more. We offer a summer swim program for the youth of Gulf shores. Please contact Head Coach Brook Hopkins at bhopkins@gulfshoresal.gov for information on joining the swim season.

Fairhope Rec Center

803 North Greeno Rd, Fairhope (251) 928-7270; www.cofairhope.com The City of Fairhope Recreation Center is a membership-based community center. The facility is home to a fitness room, a spin room, two regulation size gyms, a racquetball court, an indoor walking track, and an activity room. The Recreation Center also has a sauna, dressing facilities, a nursery and offers a wide variety of fitness classes. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Fridays from 5am – 6pm, Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Rec. Center also offers an indoor pool with eight swimming lanes and two outdoor pools with a toddler wading area. The pool is home to the Fairhope Area Swim Team and a masters swim program. For additional information on the pool, memberships, swim team or to book parties please call the Rec Center.

Foley Rec Center

121 North Alston Street, Foley (251) 970-5020; www.foleyrecreation.com Email: dthompson@cityoffoley.org The City of Foley Recreation Department’s Mission is to offer the widest range of recreation opportunities at an affordable cost to our community. In addition, we want to improve the quality of life for our residents while providing a safe environment and facilities. Visit our website for a listing of activities offered.

Orange Beach Rec Center

4849 Wilson Boulevard, Orange beach (251) 981-6028; www.obparksandrec.com The Orange Beach Rec Center facility has a gymnasium, fitness room, two multipurpose rooms and a game room. A designated ‘Teen Room’ also gives young adults their own space to socialize, play games and do homework. Please visit our website or call for information on the many activities offered. Open Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Closed on Sundays. Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

Horseback Riding Oak Hollow

14210 Greeno Road, Fairhope (251) 928-4840; www.oakhollowfarm.net Email: info@oakhollowfarm.net Relax and enjoy your ride through 300 acres of timeless natural wonder on horseback. Guests gather at Oak Hollow’s main facility and are taken by hayride to our horse barn. Your guide will take you through wooded trails and rolling pastures along the ponds and creek banks of the Oak Hollow countryside. Professionally guided trail rides are offered by appointment and can accommodate any size group from just 1-2 riders to larger groups of 20-25. For more information or to book your trial ride call or email Oak Hollow Farm.

Whitfield Farm Horseback Riding

10309 Rebel Road, Daphne (251) 626-4634 or (251) 709-4189 Whitfield Farm offers summer camps, riding lessons, training, and coaching at shows. Visit us on Facebook for event updates and information.

13370 County Road 3, Point Clear (251) 928-7666 www.facebook.com/ FoxRunEquestrian Fox Run Equestrian Centre has been teaching the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay and beyond the fine techniques of English Riding for years. We focus on the health and well being of horse and rider through exciting training in dressage. Visit our Facebook page or call for more information.

Lake Forest Stables

268 Equine Circle, Daphne (251) 747-8219; www.lakeforeststables.org Email: tonya@lakeforeststables.org We are a full-service barn inside the Lake Forest Subdivision. Services offered include boarding, lessons, birthday parties, summer camps, trail rides and therapeutic riding lessons. Lake Forest Stables is privately leased to Equine Educational Consultants. Western and English riding lessons. Please call for dates and times. Visit us on Facebook!

Raw Hide Stables

14900 County Road 3, Fairhope (251) 928-7897; www.rawhidestablesfairhope.com Email: bradjoannmoore@yahoo.com or rawhidestablesfairhope@yahoo.com Find us on Facebook! Raw Hide Stables offers family trail rides and horse boarding. Our hours are Monday – Saturday from 8am – 4pm. Please call for more information and detailed rates.

Riverside Ranch

26061 Monsanto Road, Loxley, (251) 263-3700 (251) 228-0142; www.riversideranch1.com Email: riversideranch1@gmail.com We do it all at Riverside! Riding Lessons, Trail Rides, Boarding, Leasing, Birthday Parties, Saddle Club and more! Call or visit the website for details.

Sea Horse Stables

14537 State Highway 59, Foley, (251) 971-7433 Email: jaimebows@yahoo.com Whether you are a new or experienced rider, everyone will enjoy a trip to Seahorse Stables. Our sweet horses are just waiting for you to ride and visit with them. We are open various hours so please call ahead. We offer Birthday Party packages, guided trail rides and private lessons. We only accept cash or checks.

Wild Hawk Ranch, LLC

24080 JD Waters Lane, Robertsdale (850) 418-3684; www.wildhawkranch.com Email: lynmonservices@juno.com At Wild Hawk Ranch we teach individuals to train their own horses to become a calm, dependable equine partner and teach you to become a better horseman or horsewoman on our horses. Please call for information on lessons.

Fox Run Equestrian Center

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Libraries and Story Times Many of the local libraries have very exciting events and activities during the summer. We encourage you to visit your local library’s website for details!

Page and Palette and The Book Cellar (ad on page 72)

32 South Section Street, Fairhope (251) 928-5295; www.pageandpalette.com Visit our website for upcoming events or call for children’s activities offered.

Bay Minette

205 West Second Street, Bay Minette (251) 580-1648; www.cityofbayminette.org/Library Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday open 9am – 6pm. Tuesdays from 9am – 7pm. Saturdays from 10am – 2pm. Closed on Sunday. Please call or visit our website for children’s activities.

Daphne Public Library

2607 US Highway 98, Daphne (251) 621-2818; www.daphneal.com/residents/library The Daphne library has over 68,000 titles available. We also offer the Friends Book Shop, free classes and activities for all ages, and more! Please call or visit our website for more information.

Fairhope Public Library

501 Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope (251) 928-7483; www.fairhopelibrary.org Email: youthservices@fairhopelibrary.org Summer programing includes Movie Monday at 2pm on Mondays, Storytime on Tuesday at 10am for 2 and under and 11am for ages 3-5. Tween Time Tuesdays at 2pm; Tween Minecraft on Tuesdays from 4 – 5pm. Wednesday activities begin at 2pm and include magic, exotic animals and more! Thursday activities at 4pm during the Fairhope Farmer’s Market.

Foley Public Library

319 East Laurel Ave., Foley (251) 943-7665; www.foleylibrary.org

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Gulf Shores Public Library

Thomas B. Norton Public Library 221 West 19th Avenue, Gulf Shores (251) 968-1178; www.thomasbnortonlibrary.com Email: amaliska@gulfshoresal.gov Thomas B. Norton Library in Gulf Shores presents On Your Mark, Get Set….Read summer reading programs that will be held on Fridays at 10:30am beginning June 10. June activities will take place in the adult activity center. All ages are welcomed but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian..

Loxley Public Library

1001 Loxley Ave, Loxley, (251) 964-5695 https://www.facebook.com/LoxleyPublicLibrary Hours are Tuesday 9am – 5pm. Wednesday – Friday 12pm – 5pm. Saturday 10am – 2pm.

Magnolia Springs Public Library

12440 Magnolia Avenue, Magnolia Springs (251) 965-2305; www.magnoliaspringslibrary.org Email: magnoliaspringslibrary@gmail.com Visit us on Facebook for events, activities and updates! Closed Sunday and Monday. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday open 12pm – 4pm. Thursday 12pm-5pm. Saturday 10am-12pm.

Marjorie Younce Snook Public Library

202 W Broadway Ave, Summerdale, AL 36580 (251) 989-2011; www.summerdalelibrary.com Hours are Monday – Friday 9am – 6pm. Saturday 9am – 1pm. The library offers reading, ebooks, audio and visual materials, public computers with Internet access, wireless connections, and copy, fax and notary services. We also have a Community Room available for use by non-profit, service and community groups, organizations and individuals during operating hours of the library.

Orange Beach Public Library

26267 Canal Road, Orange Beach (251) 981-2923; www.orangebeachlibrary.org Email: askobpl@cityoforangebeach.com Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9am-6pm. Thursday 9am-8pm. Saturday 9am-3pm. Join Ms. Cassie for Preschool Story Time with books, songs, games, and crafts on Tuesdays at 10am. Older children’s summer reading program fun is held on Thursdays at 2pm. Join us for magic, exotic animals and more!

Robertsdale Public Library

18301 Pennsylvania Street, Robertsdale (251) 947-8960; www.robertsdale.org Hours: Monday & Wednesday 9am – 6pm, Tuesday & Thursday 9am – 8pm, Friday 9am – 5pm, Saturday 9am – 1pm. With our growing collection of audio and video materials, we are ready to meet the needs of the surrounding communities. Please call for activity information.

Silverhill Oscar Johnson Memorial Library

21967 6th St, Silverhill (251) 945-5201; www.silverhillalabama.com/library Our hours are Monday – Friday 1pm – 4pm. Closed Saturday & Sunday.

Spanish Fort Public Library

7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort (251) 410-READ (7323) www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org Email librarian@cityofspanishfort.com Brand New Library! Our hours are Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm. Story time for Lap babies up to 24 months every Wednesday at 9:30am. Story time for preschool ages 2 and up Wednesdays at 11am. The Spanish Fort Public Library (SFPL) summer reading program begins Monday June 6th and will be held the entire month of June. The main programs will be every Monday in June

at 1:30 p.m. with a special performance on Wednesday June 15th at 3 p.m. The five main acts coming to Spanish Fort Public Library Monday June 6 : Tom Foolery’s Juggling Extravaganza @ 1:30. Monday June 13: Jon the Balloon Guy @ 1:30.  Wednesday June 15th: Hoops for Fitness @ 3 p.m.  Monday June 20 : Russell Davis Roving CloseUp Magic @ 1:30 . Monday June 27 : Animal Tales : Nature’s Olympians @ 1:30 . The 3 to 5 age group first place winner will receive a basket of books donated by Ono Pet Photography. Amazon Kids Kindles and matching cases, sponsored by Piggly Wiggly, are the first place prizes for the beginner, intermediate, and advanced reading winners. A Barnes & Noble gift will be awarded to the teen and adult category winners. Every child who signs up for summer reading will get to attend a free BayBears game once a parent/ guardian purchases a discounted ticket. Attendance for all library programs is free. Preregistration begins midMay and can be done by visiting www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Swimming Eastern Shore Aquatics CenterESAC (ad on page 35)

10580 County Road 64, Daphne (251) 300-0820; www.swimforswat.com Email: richsuhs@aol.com Eastern Shore Aquatics Center is the home of ESAC year-round swim lesson scheduling, Southern Waters Aquatic Team (year-round swim team), and the Eastern Shore Piranhas (summer swim league)! Registration is on going for lessons, sign-up or swim team membership, so enroll today! Please call or visit our website for more detailed information.

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Mobile County Aquatic League (ad on page 8)

(251) 554-2525; www.mcalswimming.weebly.com Summer fun, here we come! Don’t miss out, join a MCAL club today and start swimming! Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mcalswimanddive. For leagues and meet information visit our website.

BMAC Swim School

(251) 458-2628; www.bmacswim.com   Email: BMACSwim@yahoo.com We want all children to be as safe as possible in the water! BMAC Swim School has been teaching swimming to Baldwin County’s children for the past 20 years. Class sizes are 4 - 6 children. Classes fill up quickly, so call soon!

David L. Bodenhamer Recreation Center

310 West 19th Avenue, Gulf Shores (251) 968-1420; www.gulfshoresal.gov Email: nard@gulfshoresal.gov The Bodenhamer Recreation Center will be offering summer swim lesson sessions. Sessions are open to ages 3-18. We are also home to the Gulf Shores Swim Team that offers classes in water aerobics, lifeguard certification, group lessons and more.

Fairhope Recreation Center Swim Team and Swim Lessons (FAST)

US Highway 98, Fairhope (251) 990-0175, www.cofairhopeal.com Join for the quarter, the month or even the day! Fitness

Classes, Racquetball Court, Exercise Room, Rec. Room, Swim Teams, Swimming Lessons, Private Pool Party rentals, and just good old fashion swimming fun. Home of F.A.S.T. - Fairhope Area Swim Team, open to boys and girls ages 5-18 who already know how to swim. For info contact the Fairhope Municipal Pool or visit http://www.eteamz.com/fast4/.

Foley Recreation Swim

300 West Rosevelt Street, Foley (251) 943-7946; www.foleyrecreation.com/swimming Email: dthompson@cityoffoley.org City of Foley will have a recreational swim team this summer. All swimmers must be able to swim the length of the pool to participate on the team. Swim lessons will be offered throughout the summer at Max Griffin pool. Please call for more information or to signup for lessons. Visit the website for a schedule.

Orange Beach Aquatic Center

4853 Wilson Boulevard, Orange Beach (251) 974-SWIM (7946); www.obparksandrec.com

Email: jlewis@cityoforangebeach.com Swim lessons are offered June and July. Learn To Swim - This class is designed for children who can follow instructions and are ready to swim without their parent. Your child must be at least 3 years old to register for this class. Stroke Development - This class is designed for children who can adequately swim front crawl but need work perfecting their stroke. This will also be an opportunity to learn new strokes. Private Swimming Lessons - Classes are available to anyone seeking individual lessons. Parent/Child, learn to swim, and stroke development classes are offered. Classes are held at your convenience and the convenience of our instructors. Please see an instructor to enroll in private lessons.

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TNT Swimming

8051 Whispering Pines Road, Daphne Bounds Family YMCA (251) 300-0543; www.swimtnt.com Email: swimtnt123@aol.com TNT Swimming is a member club of Southeastern Swimming, and provides year round, USA Swimming - certified instruction, coaching and competitive opportunities to children of all ability levels For information please email or call (251) 599-1019.

Golf Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend at Craft Farms 3840 Cotton Creek Circle, Gulf Shores (251) 968-7500; www.craftfarms.com

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Email: rea.schuessler@honoursgolf.com Craft Farms offers 2 public courses with 36 Holes of pure Palmer Golf award-winning courses. Offering Junior Development Programs, US Kids and SNAG Golf Programs, Private and individual golf lessons. Private lessons are offered year round by Rea Schuessler, PGA Golf Pro and US Kids Certified and Certified Aimpoint Express Instructor.

Glenlakes Golf Club

9530 Clubhouse Drive, Foley (251) 955-1220, www.glenlakesgolf.com Email: glenlakesgolf@gmail.com Our club is widely regarded as one of the Gulf Coast’s premier golf facilities in the Gulf Shores area, featuring 27 holes of unforgettable golf. The Semi/Private facility features an 18-hole links-style Vista/Dunes course and the 9-hole resort-style Lakes course. Players of all abilities and ages will discover spectacular golf at a great price. Come discover why Glenlakes Golf Club is the best golf value on the gulf coast! Contact David Musial, by email at musialgolf@yahoo.com for individual private lessons.

Gulf Links at Foley Golf Club

3901 S. McKenzie Street, Foley (251) 970-1444; www.foleygolfcourse.com Email: foleygolfclub@centurylink.net Natural turf driving range, practice putting green with 18 hole par 64 public courses.

Gulf Shores Golf Club

520 Clubhouse Drive, Gulf Shores (251) 968-7366, www.gulfshoresgolfclub.com Email: proshop@gulfshoresgolfclub.om Gulf Shores Golf Club is open to the public with memberships available. Our course is designed in the traditional plantation-style; The Clubhouse is complete with a dining room and Pro Shop. We are open 7 Days a Week. Please call the golf shop for more information and tee times.

Gulf State Park Golf Course

20115 State Highway 135, Gulf Shores (251) 948-7275; www.alapark.com/gulf-state-park Our 18-hole championship golf course offers an exceptional experience and beauty found only on the Alabama Gulf Coast. There are 6,593 yards of beautifully landscaped courses, a driving range, putting green, pro shop, and our delicious Refuge Grill.

Lake Forest Golf Course

1 Golf Terrace, Daphne, (251) 626-9324 www.lakeforestpoa.org; lfproshop@lakeforestpoa.org Lake Forest Golf Course has 27 holes of golf, the 19th Hole Grille, practice range, putting green and a courteous and helpful staff. We offer individual lessons for kids age 7 years to adult. Please call or email our golf shop for information.

Kiva Dunes

815 Plantation Drive, Gulf Shores (251) 540-7000; www.kivadunes.com Kiva Dunes provides an exceptional and unforgettable golf experience and is definitely to be included on your “must play” list while visiting the Gulf Coast.

Lost Key Golf Club

625 Lost Key Drive - Perdido Key, FL (850) 549-2161 or (888) 256-7853; www.lostkey.com Public course. Redesigned by the Arnold Palmer Design Group in 2006, the par 71 signature designed championship course features the new Sea Dwarf Paspalum grass from the tee through the green for the optimum in quality playing surfaces and green speeds. Each golf hole includes five sets of tees, and offers players of all skill levels a unique visual and strategic playing experience. Lost Key was the first golf course in the State of Florida to be certified as an Audubon International Silver Signature Sanctuary.

Magnolia Springs Golf and RV Campground

10831 Magnolia Springs Highway, Foley (251) 965-GOLF (6777); www.magnoliaspringsgolf.com

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pro and age also For Open to the public. We welcome all ages and skill levels. We request that your wear a shirt and shoes, golf attire is not required. This is FUN Golf..on a real course... We strive to give you an excellent putting surface year-around. Open 365 days a year!

Orange Beach Golf Center

4700 Easy Street, Orange Beach (251) 981-4653; www.obparksandrec.com/golfcenter.html Municipal course. Proof of residency required. Visit our website for greens fees, course hours and amenity listings.

Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club

20 Peninsula Boulevard, Gulf Shores (251) 968-8009 or (800) 391-8009 www.peninsulagolfclub.com Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club offers an impressive 27-hole championship golf course designed by Earl Stone. This Gulf Shore’s, Alabama Golf Club Boasts over 7,000 yards from the championship tees, and provides a playable and enjoyable layout for golfers of all skill levels. We are nestled beside the Bon Secour Wildlife Preserve with live oaks, cypress, and other natural vegetation native to Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Quail Creek Golf

19841 Quail Creek Drive, Fairhope (251) 990-0240; www.cofairhope.com Email: bobby.hall@cofairhope.com Our Course Pros provide a great basic foundation and knowledgeable instruction. Boys, girls and adults will learn to love the challenging game of golf, gain strength, and confidence. The course includes 18 holes of well-manicured greens, fairways, tee boxes,

driving range, putting and chipping areas, a full service Pro Shop, snack bar, club fitting and a friendly & knowledgeable staff. PGA Director of Golf, Bobby Hall, manages Quail Creek Golf Course. Please call or stop in the golf shop for more information. Junior clinics and lessons offered by our golf pro staff.

Rock Creek Golf

140 Clubhouse Drive, Fairhope (251) 928-4223; www.rockcreekgolf.com Rock Creek Golf Course is an 18-hole Baldwin County golf course. It stretches over 6,900 yards, making it perfect for long hitters yet fun and encouraging for golfers playing from the forward tees. Rock Creek is best known as a fun, player-friendly course for locals, members and visitors to the area. Golfers of all skills love the layout featuring well-manicured tree-lined fairways and generous landing areas.

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Tennis City of Foley Recreation Tennis

Cedar Street, Foley (251) 970-5020; www.foleyrecreation.com The City of Foley offers tennis clinics throughout the year at Mel Roberts (Cedar Street) Park. Classes are available for all ages and skill levels. Classes are limited to 8 per class, so sign up early. Cost is $35.

George C. Myers Tennis Center – Gulf Shores

Soldiers Creek Golf Club

28341 Preserve Trail, Elberta (251) 986-8633; nlwoerner@yahoo.com Soldier’s Creek Golf Club is a breath taking 18-hole golf course, with superior playing conditions and eagle greens. The non-residential course layout is set through rolling hills, lakes and nature trails offering great playability for all levels of golfers.

2049 West 2nd Street, Gulf Shores (251) 968-1341; www.gulfshoresal.gov Email: tcatar@gulfshoresal.gov The George C. Meyer Tennis Center features a beautiful complex complete with 6 outdoor soft courts, 4 covered soft courts, 12 hard courts, and an indoor clubhouse and pro-shop. A variety of local tournaments are offered as well as, many USTA sanctioned tournaments throughout the year. The George C. Meyer Tennis Center offers summer tennis camps each year. Call the number listed above for more information on upcoming dates. If you are interested in reserving the George C. Meyer Tennis Center for an upcoming tournament, contact the David L. Bodenhamer Recreation Center at (251) 968-1420.

Timber Creek Golf Course

Lake Forest Racquet Club

9650 Timber Creek Boulevard, Daphne (251) 621-9900; www.golftimbercreek.com Email: Tommy@golftimbercreek.com Timber Creek Golf Course will offer a spring and summer clinics for Junior golfers beginning May 2015. Call us today to be added to our junior golf email list for upcoming activities.

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1 Golf Terrace, Daphne, AL (251) 626-0788; www.lfpoa.com Email: lakeforestcc@bellsouth.net The Lake Forest Racquet Club is conveniently located next to the main Olympic size swimming pool on Country Club Drive. This beautiful facility consists of 6 lighted tennis courts that are very well maintained and

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provide for terrific matches that are easy on the joints and great on the competition. Classes are offered to all ages including group clinics and private lessons. We also provide great professional support to all the Lake Forest teams that participate in various leagues.

Orange Beach Tennis Center

4851 Wilson Boulevard, Orange Beach (251) 974-NETS (6387); www.obparksandrec.com Rhett Russell (251) 233-9628 Email: rhett7@hotmail.com This facility features eight lighted medium speed hard courts. The Pro Shop features Wilson Rackets, tennis shoes and accessories, along with Nike tennis apparel. The Tennis Center offers youth, adult and senior adult tennis programs. Please call the numbers listed above for rates and registrations.

Point Clear Tennis

17107 Tennis Club Drive, Point Clear (251) 604-1259; mattmckelvain@gmail.com Point Clear Tennis & Swim Club features clay courts in beautiful Point Clear. Single and Family Memberships are available. Point Clear Tennis and Swim also offers tennis camps for grades K-12, beginner and intermediate levels. Please email or call for specific camps, lessons and activities.

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Arts & Crafts Fantasy Island Toys “Make and Take” (ad on page 36)

335 Fairhope Ave, Fairhope, AL 36532 (251) 928-1720; www.fantasyislandtoys.com We are hosting another fun summer of our Create It – Make It - Take It series! Some of the projects this year include stepping stones, Paint a Canvas, Volcano Science Lab, Shrinkable creations, and Paint a bird feeder. Space is limited and reservations are required. Most classes are $5/child and some are $8. For a detailed schedule, please call or visit our website.

Coastal Arts Center

26389 Canal Road, Orange Beach (251) 981-2787; www.coastalartscenter.com Email: jjones@cityoforangebeach.com Coastal Arts Center offers classes, workshops, and camps to artists of all ages and all skill levels. We offer events for all artists and skill levels. Call for a detailed list of activities offered. Visit our website and sign up for our newsletter.

Eastern Shore Art Center

401 Oak Avenue, Fairhope  (251) 928-2228; www.esartcenter.com Email: adrienne@esartcenter.com Free admission. Open to the public Tuesday - Friday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Families are always encouraged to walk through our exhibits, Gift Shop, sneak a peek at the Studios, and bring your sketchbooks when inspired!! Summer days are always well spent sketching under

our Gazebo outside as well! For more information please call or email us. Visit us online and join us on Facebook.

or visit us on Facebook for a schedule of workshops and classes.

Michael’s

9 North Church Street, Fairhope (251) 928-4161; www.paintnparrot.com   Email: robm1490@gmail.com Paint ’n Parrot is a pottery painting studio where you can kick back, relax and get your creativity on! Bring the family to make one-of-a-kind keepsakes or call the babysitter and join us for a memorable Girl’s Night Out or Date Night! Call or email for class hours.

10200 Eastern Shore Boulevard, Spanish Fort Eastern Shore Center (251) 621-2686; www.michaels.com Lots of fun FREE “Make-It, Take-It” in-store events. Visit www.michaels.com/Kids-Store-Events/storeevents-kids,default,pg.html

P’zazz Art

456-A North Section Street, Fairhope (251) 802- 1009; www.fairhope.pzazzart.com Our classes, fundraisers, workshops and parties are all designed to let you relax and enjoy something fun and creative! Whether you are an experienced or beginning artist, adult or child, you are sure to have a great experience at P’zazz! Call

Paint ‘N Parrot

The Yarn Cottage

9 North Church Street, Fairhope (251) 928-4046; www.theyarncottagefairhope.com Email: yarncottage@att.net Classes for all levels and ages. Knitting, crochet and tatting. Open Monday – Saturday 10am – 4pm. ESP

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by Laura Lyles Reagan, MS

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

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

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

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

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

from their father. To criticize him in their presence is to criticize my daughters.

4) Make a parenting agreement Agreements prevent disagreements. Some co-parents find that written coparenting agreements are helpful. Co-parenting agreements have more details than a visitation agreement inside a divorce decree. It can be developed by a lawyer, mediator or counselor/ therapist. To involve a professional however, requires a fee. Faith based divorce recovery groups or non-profit services for co-parenting may be able to assist co77

parents in writing parenting agreements without charging. If there is some level of cooperation between the co-parents, you may be able to write your own parenting agreement. Sample agreements can be found in many co-parenting books or coparenting online resources. Co-parenting is a learned set of skills that benefit everyone, especially our children. ESP Laura Lyles Reagan is a child advocate, sociologist and free lance writer. She is a mother of two daughters. She can be reached for co-parenting sessions through her website at www.heart2heartparents.com.

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A Page in a Book Books, Beds and Sleepyheads Preparing children for a good night’s sleep can include a variety of routines and regimens, all designed to help kids relax and settle into the bedtime groove. Warm baths, dimmed lights, and soft pajamas create soothing transitions from active play to relaxation. Best among these comforting routines is the time-honored bed time traditions of finding just the right books to settle in with before lights out. The following titles are recommended for winding down wound up kids with simple text, soft-edged illustrations and sweet progressions toward sleep.

Sheep Go to Sleep

by Nancy Shaw, Illustrated by Margot Apple (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) Five sheep are back from their latest adventure and heading home to hit the sack. They’re ready for sleep in their snug beds of hay but nighttime noises are keeping them awake. Enter the loyal collie who has just the thing to soothe restless sheep. Helping with a hug for one, a drink for another, collie has something to offer each sheep as they countdown toward slumber. Nursery rhyme fans will also smile when they discover where an exhausted dog ends up after getting the herd to bed. With simple rhyming text and soft-edged illustrations this title is perfect for little ones who are just beginning to count sheep as they go to sleep.

Good Night Like This

by Mary Murphy (Candlewick) Dusk arrives with gorgeous color as animal parents prepare their young for evening slumber. Rabbits, bears, fireflies and squirrels all snuggle in with their babes as twilight looms, calming and cuddling their little ones. Each two-page spread features a split page insert that shows the moments just before sleep, then turns to reveals the sleeping family. The evening hues shift from dusky orange, through violet to blue as the progression toward bedtime sees the departure of the sun and the arrival of starry skies. Children reading along will enjoy identifying the shadowy silhouettes that say “good night” while chiming in with their own “like this” refrain after each animal closes its eyes.

Rock-a-Bye Romp

by Linda Ashman, Illustrated by Simona Mulazzani (Nancy Paulsen / Penguin Random House) Taking inspiration from the ‘Rock-a-bye, Baby’ lullaby, this baby’s journey toward slumber departs from the treetop and takes a round-a-bout tour before the last goodnight. Rendered with almost dreamlike detail, baby leaves the cradle in the boughs and soars through darkening skies, floats along rivers of stars, and ambles across peaceful pastures. Animals met along the way all seems to be guiding baby toward a sleepy destination. The journey ends when the child finally lands in mother’s arms, and makes the last stop of the night in baby’s own bed (under a swaying mobile featuring many of the child’s fellow travelers on the journey toward sleep). With rhyming text that perfectly syncs with the original lullaby, readers may also use this gentle selection to sing the way toward slumber. Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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2016 Summer Session June 13 - July 28, 2016 (no classes July 1 - 9)

2016 Summer Camps

Ages 5 & up 9am - 12noon - $120/week June 6 - 10 • August 1 - 5 • August 8 - 12

• Competitive Gymnastics • Developmental School Age Gymnastics • Pre-School Gymnastics • Birthday Parties Register Today! Space is Limited. (251) 447-0505 • 8566 Athlete Drive, Daphne

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Family Calendar

Thursday, June 2

Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series The City of Fairhope returns with the 2nd annual “Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series,” with three free family movies at Fairhopers Community Park on the first Thursdays in June, July, and August. Moviegoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and a picnic (no alcohol or glass containers) and relax with the whole family. The movies will begin at 8 p.m. Thursday, June 2: “Aladdin”; Thursday, July 7: “Minions”; Thursday, August 4: “Inside Out”. The Downtown Fairhope Business Association will be giving away glow-in-the-dark items. The movies will be shown at Fairhopers Community Park on Church Street in downtown Fairhope and are sponsored by the City of Fairhope Public Utilities and the Downtown Fairhope Business Association. For more information on the Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series, call 251-929-1466. Fairhope Summer Outdoor Farmer’s Market See May 5 for more information. Fairhope Summer Outdoor Farmer’s Market The City of Fairhope hosts a Summer Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday evenings, ending July 7. The market is set up behind the Fairhope Public Library in downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street. The market features local farmers, bakers, fresh Baldwin County produce, fresh cut flowers, local honey, plants, baked goods and more. The Fairhope Public Library holds story times and children’s activities at 4:00 p.m. each Thursday at the market. For general information or to participate in the market, call 251-929-1466.

Friday, June 3

First Friday Art Walk On the first Friday of every month the Art Center (401 Oak Street, Fairhope) welcomes 400 plus visitors, free of charge, for the exhibit openings. Visitors are treated to refreshments made possible by generous local business sponsors. 6:00 p.m. — 8:00 p.m. First Friday Family Night Join us at Blackburn Park (1st and Hoyle in downtown Bay Minette) from 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. We will have food trucks, arts and crafts, kid’s activities and free outdoor movie at 8:00 p.m. Please call (251) 937-5665 for more information. 2016 Coastal Seafood Craze The Alabama Coastal Foundation will host the fifth annual Coastal Seafood Craze! The Craze will partner with the Mobile Bay Bears at the Hank Aaron Stadium Event Center (755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard, Mobile) from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. The Coastal Seafood Craze invites local restaurants to feature dishes made with locally caught seafood. Gulf Coast seafood is an important part of our local culture, and we need to do everything we can to support and celebrate it. We hope that you can come enjoy the best of what our local waters have to offer while enjoying a great American pastime! Please visit www.joinacf.org for more information. SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” The University of Alabama’s professional summer theatre, SummerTide, will bring a “heatwave” to Gulf Shores during its 13th season. The cast of SummerTide will present “The Marvelous Wonderettes”, the Off-

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Broadway hit musical by Roger Bean. Performance dates: Friday, June 3 through Friday, July 1 (Tuesday through Sunday evening at 8:00 p.m.) at the George C. Meyer Performing Arts Center (2022 West 2nd Street, Gulf Shores). Tickets are available for purchase at SummerTide.org or by calling the George C. Meyer Performing Arts Center box office after May 23 at 251.968.6721.

members, Kyser Miree. The proceeds from the Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament fund both a scholarship in Kyser’s name at the engineering college at Vanderbilt University and Rotaract’s on-going projects with such groups as Wilmer Hall Children’s Home and Collins-Rhodes Elementary School in Eight Mile. Please visit kysertournament.com for more information.

Music and a Movie: MAX / Baldwin POPS/ Foley Police Canine Unit – Foley Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy a free movie, music and entertainment under the stars. Concessions will be available for purchase. Foley PD Canine Unit Demonstration- 6 p.m. Baldwin POPS- Enjoy the Annual Foley Memorial Day Concert by an assortment of fantastic talent in this local ensemble. During this performance there will also be a children’s flag parade and a salute to the U.S. Military. “MAX”- Movie will begin at dusk. A dog that helped US Marines in Afghanistan returns to the U.S. and is adopted by his handler’s family after suffering a traumatic experience. “MAX” is a movie that will tug on those heart strings and the entire family can enjoy. Heritage Park (101 E. Laurel Ave., Foley). Heritage Park Marketplace is open for enjoyment from 4-7 p.m. Vendors include baked goods, plants, produce, arts, crafts and more.

Sunset Cruise Car Show The 3rd Annual Sunset Cruise Car Show will be held in Green Park on Dauphin Island and will include live music, car corral, food vendors and swamp meet. Please visit townofdauphinisland.org for more information.

Pirate Cove 10th Annual High Hopes 4 Autism A 3-day fundraiser from June 3-5 at Pirates Cove in Josephine, Alabama. The FUNraiser features three days of food, fun, silent auction and live music from local and nationally known bands and musicians. Please visit highhopes4autism.org for more information. Daphne Farmer’s Market Join us at the Daphne Farmer’s Market on Fridays from 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. at Daphne United Methodist Church (2401 Scenic 98, Daphne).

Saturday, June 4

Paddle Skedaddle Spend the morning on the water racing (or moseying) this 1.5 mile course with your family or as an individual! There will be awards, lots of fair games & concessions on the grounds! Funds raised will go to support the University of South Alabama Wesley Foundation. 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center - 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort. Please visit Eventbrite.com for more information. Grandman Triathlon The Publix Grandman Triathlon begins with a 1/3 mile swim straight out into picturesque Mobile Bay and back beside the Fairhope Municipal Pier. After the swim comes a 18 mile bike ride through the charming city of Fairhope. The ride begins with one steep hill and five miles of rolling countryside. The race to the finish line begins with a 3.1 mile run through the streets of Fairhope and along the Bay. We look forward to seeing you bright and early at 7:00 a.m. For more information, please visit www.thegrandman.com. Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament Join us at the Wharf (4830 Main Street, Orange Beach) for the Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament put on each year by the Rotaract Club of the Mobile Bay Area in honor and memory of one of its founding

Art in the Park Nature Fest – Dauphin Island Join us for a juried art fest with fine artists from around the Southeast, children’s activities, food and live entertainment. Location: 601 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Please visit www. dauphinislandtourism.com for more information. Spanish Fort Farmer’s Market The Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with the City of Spanish Fort to bring local residents a Farmers Market each Saturday between May 7 and July 30 at the Spanish Fort Community Center (7361 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort) between 8:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. Come take advantage of this opportunity to buy fresh local produce! Beach Express Lacrosse Blast Join us in Foley, Alabama for our inaugural Beach Express Lacrosse Blast June 4-5 - the first lacrosse tournament on 16 new state-of-the-art outdoor fields at the Foley Sports Tourism Complex starting at 12:00 p.m. Location: Foley Sports Tourism Complex at 10113 Foley Beach Expressway, Foley. Please visit foleysportstourism.com for more information. Pirate Cove 10th Annual High Hopes 4 Autism See June 3 for more information SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Sunday, June 5

Jubilee Kids Triathlon The Jubilee Kids Triathlon will start at 7:30 a.m. for ages 7-15 at the Fairhope Municipal Pier. This is a swim, bike, run race for kids. For more information or to register, please find us on Facebook. Weird AL Yankovic – Saenger Theatre Weird AL Yankovic concert at 7:00 p.m. at the Saenger Theatre (6 S. Joachim Street). Please visit www. mobilesaenger.com for more information. Pirate Cove 10th Annual High Hopes 4 Autism See June 3 for more information. Beach Express Lacrosse Blast See June 4 for more information. SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Monday, June 6

Spanish Fort Public Library Summer Reading Program The Spanish Fort Public Library will hold its first ever summer reading program, with the theme “On Your Mark, Get Set, READ”. We will have Tom Foolery’s Juggling Extravaganza at 1:30 p.m.; the main programs will be every Monday in June at 1:30 p.m. with a special performance on Wednesday June 15th at 3:00 p.m. The main programs will be held at the Spanish

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Family Calendar Fort Community Center at 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort. Visit the library website calendar for more details at www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org and call us if you have any questions at 251410READ (7323). Daphne Public Library Summer Reading Kickoff Join us at Daphne Civic Center (2603 U.S. Highway 98, Daphne) for Summer Reading Kickoff. We will have registration, reading bags, food and entertainment starting at 10:30 a.m.

Tuesday, June 7

Tuesday Evening Civil War Tours – Fort Morgan Watch Fort Morgan’s Civil War history come to life every summer during the evening tours. Historical interpreters, portraying members of the garrison, tell about the lives of the soldiers during the fort’s most turbulent years. Demonstrations of Civil War small arms drill will occur throughout the evening as well as the firing of one of the fort’s artillery pieces at the conclusion of the tour. Fort Morgan (110 Highway 180, Gulf Shores). Please visit www.fort-morgan.org for more information. SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Wednesday, June 8

Kids Gulf Discovery Day at Bellingrath Gardens and Home Plan a day of summertime fun for the family at Bellingrath Gardens and Home at Kids Gulf Discovery Day, an opportunity for children of all ages to learn about the wildlife and ecology of the Gulf Coast. A wide variety of environmental organizations will be on hand for activities and demonstrations, including Mobile

June2016

Baykeeper, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Share the Beach, Keep Mobile Beautiful and the Five Rivers Delta Resource Center. Scientists from the Dauphin Island Sea Lab will introduce children to the creatures of Mobile Bay, and the Environmental Studies Center will present an exciting Raptor Road Show on the Great Lawn, featuring rehabilitated hawks, owls and other birds of prey. Guests may also take a cruise along the beautiful Fowl River with our friends from Delta Safaris! Kids Gulf Discovery Day hours are 9:00 a.m. to noon. Admission is $13 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 5-12 and free to Bellingrath members and to ages 4 and younger. Registration is encouraged for Kids Gulf Discovery Day. To register, call 251.973.2217. For details, visit our website, www.bellingrath.org. Fairhope Library - Performance Each Wednesday afternoon, the children of the library will be entertained with a visiting performance artist or musician from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. These activities are free for any child wishing to attend. Sign-ups are not required, just show up with a parent or guardian and enjoy the fun! Join us: June 8 Tom Foolery – juggling, comedy; June 15 – balloons; June 22 – magic; June 29 – exotic wildlife. Please call (251) 929-1465 for more information. Harry Connick Jr Concert – Saenger Theatre Harry Connick Jr. concert at 8:00 p.m. at the Saenger Theatre (6 S. Joachim Street). Please visit www. mobilesaenger.com for more information. Kids Night – The Wharf See June 1 for more information. SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Thursday, June 9

Foley Summer Reading Performances Join us at the Foley Civic Center (407 E Laurel Ave, Foley) Thursdays in June at 10:00am for fun free performances. June 9 – “Tom Foolery’s Juggling Extravaganza”, June 16 – Balloon Art, June 23 – Magic Show and June 30 – Join us for the finale with food, fun and animal science. Please call (251) 943-7665 for more information. SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information. Fairhope Summer Outdoor Farmer’s Market See May 5 for more information.

Friday, June 10

North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Crawfish Bash The Annual Crawfish Bash is a family friendly community event that kicks off the summer! You will find crawfish, corn, potatoes, sausage, hot dogs, beer and other non-alcoholic beverages, live music, kid’s activities and a lot of fun! Tickets will be available through the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce and kids 10 and under are free! Please visit www. northbaldwinchamber.com for more information. Music and a Movie: “Planes Fire and Rescue” / One Fair Trio / Foley Fire Dept. Safety Demonstration Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy a free movie, music and entertainment under the stars. Concessions will be available for purchase. Foley Fire Dept. Safety Demonstration- 6 p.m. One Fair Duo- 6-8 p.m. singing and entertainment on the gorgeous lawn of Heritage

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Family Calendar Park. “Planes Fire and Rescue” -Movie will begin at dusk. When Dusty learns that his engine is damaged and he may never race again, he joins a forest fire and rescue unit to be trained as a firefighter, or else his air strip will be shut down. Heritage Park (101 E. Laurel Avenue, Foley). Heritage Park Marketplace is open for enjoyment from 4-7 p.m. Vendors include baked goods, plants, produce arts, crafts and more. SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information. Daphne Farmer’s Market See June 3 for more information.

June2016

Children’s Cup Regatta Sailing enthusiasts and friends in Mobile and Baldwin counties are invited to enjoy a day of sailboat racing at the Fairhope Yacht Club, located at 101 Volanta Ave. New to this year’s events are the kayak races. The 1-mile Fun Paddle begins at 9 a.m. and the 2-mile competitive races begin at 10 a.m. Registration is $25 per boat. A family-friendly event, guests are invited to watch the races free-of-charge beginning at 12:30 p.m. The kids activity area, known as “Al’s Activity Area” in honor of local Children’s patient Al Guarisco, opens at 4 p.m. Throughout the afternoon, guests can bid on silent auction items and enjoy barbecue plates, a cash bar, and live music. For more information or to register online, visit http://give.childrensal.org/ regatta2016, or call Kerrie Benson at (251) 610-4969. Event updates will be posted regularly to facebook. com/ChildrensCupRegatta. Camping 101 – Gulf State Park Attend Camping 101 and you will receive a card that entitles you to borrow all the camping equipment you need for a great camping trip for free with paid campground registration anytime. Camping 101 will include instructions on everything related to camping at Gulf State Park such as how to find the perfect spot for the tent and how to put it up, how to build a campfire, how to use and cook on a campstove, what to do and see while you are camping and much more. Please call 251-948-7275 ext. 2127 or visit www.alapark.com/gulfstate-park for more information.

Saturday, June 11

Dragon Boat Festival The Third Annual Dragon Boat Festival will take place at Battleship Memorial Park (2703 Battleship Pkwy., Mobile) starting at 8:00 a.m. Please visit fuseproject. org/dragon-boat-festival for more information.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

Spanish Fort Farmer’s Market See June 4 for more information. SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Sunday, June 12

Kirk Franklin Concert HUKA Entertainment presents Kirk Franklin- Twenty Years In One Night World Tour at 7:30pm the Saenger Theatre (6 S. Joachim Street). Please visit www. mobilesaenger.com for more information. SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Monday, June 13

Spanish Fort Public Library Summer Reading Program Join us for Jon the Balloon Guy at 1:30 at the Spanish Fort Community Center at 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort. Visit the library website calendar for more details at www. spanishfortpubliclibrary.org and call us if you have any questions at 251410READ (7323).

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Daphne Public Library Summer Reading Program – Marvelous Mondays Join us for Marvelous Mondays at 10:30 a.m. for fun free entertainment at 2607 US Highway 98. June 13 – balloons; June 20 – Magic and June 27 – animals. Please visit www.daphnelibrary.org or call (251) 6212818 for more information.

Tuesday, June 14

Tuesday Evening Civil War Tours – Fort Morgan See June 7 for more information. SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

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Family Calendar Wednesday, June 15

Spanish Fort Public Library Summer Reading Program Join us for Hoops for Fitness at 3:00 p.m. at the Spanish Fort Community Center at 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort. Visit the library website calendar for more details at www. spanishfortpubliclibrary.org and call us if you have any questions at 251410READ (7323). Fairhope Library – Performance See June 8 for more information. Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home See June 1 for more information. SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

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Kids Night – The Wharf See June 1 for more information.

June2016

Thursday, June 16

C Spire Concert Series presents: Keith Urban Keith Urban concert at the Wharf (4550 Main St., Orange Beach). Please visit Ticketmaster.com for more information. Fairhope Summer Outdoor Farmer’s Market See June 2 for more information. Foley Summer Reading Performances See June 9 for more information. SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Friday, June 17

Music and a Movie: “Cinderella”/Sugarcane Jane Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy a free movie, music and entertainment under the stars. Sugarcane Jane- 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. singing and entertainment on the gorgeous lawn of Heritage Park. Movie will begin at dusk. Location: Heritage Park (101 E. Laurel Avenue, Foley) Heritage Park Marketplace is open for enjoyment from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Vendors include baked goods, plants, produce arts, crafts and more. Father’s Day – Make and Take – Daphne Public Library Bring your child to the community room to make dad a special gift this year! Location: Daphne Public Library Children’s Department 2607 US Highway 98, Daphne at 1:30 p.m. Please call (251) 621-2818 for more information. Daphne Farmer’s Market See June 3 for more information.

SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Saturday, June 18

Ride Yellow This event is an Infirmary Health charity bike ride held annually on the Saturday before Father’s Day. The ride begins at Halliday Park in Bay Minette, with a 6-mile tribute ride. Individuals can choose to participate in only the tribute ride or continue by pedaling the 10, 20 (new for 2016), 37 or 62 mile route at their leisure. Please visit www.rideyellow.org for more information. GulfQuest Race to the River—a 5K and Family Fun Run GulfQuest is pleased to announce the inaugural Race to the River, a 5K and Family Fun Run to benefit the museum. The start and finish lines for the 5K Run and Family Fun Run will be at Ft. Conde Village with the post-race activities will take place along the river in front of GulfQuest. Those festivities will include live music and refreshments, including a local favorite— shrimp and grits, provided by The Galley (GulfQuest’s café)—plus door prizes. All registered race and fun run participants will be entered to win door prizes that include a GulfQuest Family Membership and a child’s GulfQuest birthday party. Race participants will also receive half-off GulfQuest admission and half-off GulfQuest memberships. To register for Race to the River, visit www.gulfquest.org. Race applications are also available at McCoy Outdoor, Run-N-Tri or Fleet Feet in Mobile, Running Wild in Fairhope, and at GulfQuest. For info email mbeasley@gulfquest.org, or call 251-202-6306.

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Family Calendar

June2016

Spanish Fort Farmer’s Market See June 4 for more information.

Fairhope Library – Performance See June 8 for more information.

SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Sunday, June 19

Kids Night – The Wharf See June 1 for more information.

SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Monday, June 20

Spanish Fort Library Summer Reading Program Join us for Russell Davis Roving CloseUp Magic at 1:30 p.m. at the Spanish Fort Community Center at 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort. Visit the library website calendar for more details at www. spanishfortpubliclibrary.org and call us if you have any questions at 251410READ (7323). Daphne Public Library Summer Reading Program – Marvelous Mondays See June 13 for more information.

Tuesday, June 21

Tuesday Evening Civil War Tours – Fort Morgan See June 7 for more information.

Wednesday, June 22

Thursday, June 23

Distinguished Young Women Finals In the largest and oldest scholarship program for high school girls, delegates from each state compete in academic achievement, physical fitness, onstage performance and communication. The dates of National Finals 2016 are June 23-25: 1st Preliminaries: Thursday June 23, 2nd Preliminaries: Friday, June 24, and Finals Night: Saturday, June 25. Please visit distinguishedyw. org for more information.

Distinguished Young Women Finals See June 23 for more information. Daphne Farmer’s Market See June 3 for more information.

Saturday, June 25

St. Francis at the Point Benefit Concert There will be a Benefit Concert at St. Francis at the Point (17280 Scenic Hwy 98, Point Clear) featuring John Reno. Angel Ride, St. Francis and the Women’s Refuge will be the beneficiaries. Light Refreshments will be served at 5:00 p.m. with the concert starting at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person and are available by calling the church office at 251-928-1255.

Fairhope Summer Outdoor Farmer’s Market See June 2 for more information.

Distinguished Young Women Finals See June 23 for more information.

Foley Summer Reading Performances See June 9 for more information.

Spanish Fort Farmer’s Market See June 4 for more information.

SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Friday, June 24

Sunday, June 26

Music and a Movie: Star Wars / Danny “D” Band Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy a free movie, Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens music and entertainment under the stars. Danny “D” and Home Band- 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. singing and entertainment on See June 1 for more information. PA Pet ad 2.qxp_Layout 1 12/2/15 4:56 PM Pagethe 1 gorgeous lawn of Heritage Park with the movie

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

beginning at dusk. Location: Heritage Park (101 E. Laurel Avenue, Foley). Heritage Park Marketplace is open for enjoyment from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Vendors include baked goods, plants, produce arts, crafts and more.

C Spire Concert Series presents: Brantley Gilbert C Spire Concert Series presents: Brantley Gilbert with special guests Justin Moore & Colt Ford at the Wharf (4550 Main St., Orange Beach). Please visit ticketmaster.com for more information.

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Family Calendar Monday, June 27

Spanish Fort Public Library Summer Reading Program Join us for Animal Tales: Nature’s Olympians at 1:30 p.m. at the Spanish Fort Community Center at 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort. Visit the library website calendar for more details at www. spanishfortpubliclibrary.org and call us if you have any questions at 251410READ (7323). Fairhope Film Festival Monthly Movie Fairhope Film Festival monthly movies will show “City of Gold”. Please join us at the Fairhope Film Festival Office, on Summit Street at the corner of Fairhope Ave. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the movie begins at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $15 each. Popcorn, water and wine by-donation are available prior to the film. For questions and reservations call (251) 990-7957. Daphne Public Library Summer Reading Program – Marvelous Mondays See June 13 for more information.

Tuesday, June 28

Tuesday Evening Civil War Tours – Fort Morgan See June 7 for more information. SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Wednesday, June 29 Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home See June 1 for more information.

June2016

Fairhope Library – Performance See June 8 for more information.

Daphne Farmer’s Market See June 3 for more information.

SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Kids Night – The Wharf See June 1 for more information.

Thursday, June 30

Fairhope Summer Outdoor Farmer’s Market See June 2 for more information. Foley Summer Reading Performances See June 9 for more information. SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” See June 3 for more information.

Friday, July 1

Saturday, July 2

Smoke on the Coast Mark your calendars for “Smoke on the Coast” at the Spanish Fort Town Center Park (I-10 And Old Spanish Trail, Spanish Fort) from 4:00 - 9:00 p.m.! You will not want to miss Willie Sugarcapps, local BBQ, cornhole tournaments, arts & crafts, a Kid Zone, and the largest fireworks festival in the area! Spanish Fort Farmer’s Market See June 4 for more information.

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Family Calendar Sunday, July 3

Grand Bay Watermelon Festival Join us for the Grand Bay Watermelon Festival July 3 (3:00 - 7:00 p.m.) and July 4 (8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.). We will have rides, arts and crafts, food, entertainment and all the free, sliced, ice cold watermelon you can eat. So come spend both days with us at our hometown Grand Bay Watermelon Festival. You’ll be glad you did! Location: Grand Bay Odd Fellows Festival Park, 10327 Taylor F. Harper Blvd., Grand Bay. Please visit grandbaywatermelonfestival.org for more information.

June2016

Grand Bay Watermelon Festival See July 3 for more information.

Wednesday, July 6

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home See June 1 for more information. Kids Night – The Wharf See June 1 for more information.

Thursday, July 7

Fairhope Summer Outdoor Farmer’s Market See June 2 for more information. Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series See June 2 for more information.

Friday, July 8

Fairies and Frogs Consignment Sale Join us for Fairies and Frogs Consignment Sale from 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. and July 9 from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Grace Fellowship Church (1412 E. Nashville Avenue, Atmore). For more information, please call (251) 232-0160 or (251) 294-1040.

Monday, July 4

Daphne’s Jubilee Independence Day Join us at Trione Sports Park off Whispering Pines Road for Daphne’s Jubilee Independence Day celebration with fireworks starting at dusk. Fairhope’s Fourth of July Festival and Fireworks The City of Fairhope and the Baldwin Pops Band invite one and all to the annual Fourth of July Concert and Fireworks display at Henry George Park and the Fairhope Municipal Pier Park. The Baldwin Pops Band Independence Day Concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in Henry George Park on top of the bluff and the fireworks begin at dusk, approximately 9:00 p.m. For more information on Fairhope’s Fourth of July Festival and Fireworks display, call 251-929-1466. City of Mobile Fireworks Display – Battleship Memorial Park The City of Mobile will once again host the city’s July 4th celebration and fireworks display at Battleship Memorial Park. Live, patriotic entertainment provided by the Mobile Pops Band until the fireworks illuminate the sky! Gates open at 6 p.m. and the fireworks begin at 9 p.m. Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration – Gulf Shores The City of Gulf Shores will celebrate the Fourth of July with a stunning fireworks display, beginning at 9:00 p.m. on July 4 at Gulf Shores Public Beach (where highway 59 meets the beach). Please visit www.gulfshoresal.gov for more information. Salute To American Independence Historical interpreters dressed in U.S. Army uniforms from different eras of the fort’s occupation will conduct special guided tours throughout the day. Additionally, artillery, small arms, and other presentations will demonstrate the complexities of military garrison life at Fort Morgan. Location: Fort Morgan (110 Hwy. 180 West, Gulf Shores) from 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Please visit www.fort-morgan. org for more information. Fireworks at the Wharf Join us at the Wharf for fireworks, Spectra Light Show, family fun zone, live music, food and drinks! Location: 4550 Main St, Orange Beach. For more information, please visit www.alwharf.com. Dauphin Island Fireworks Fireworks show on the Public Beach next to DI Elementary School.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

Daphne Farmer’s Market See June 3 for more information.

Saturday, July 9

Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament The Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament is designed to bring families together and encourage sportsmanship. The tournament takes place on the Saturday before the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. RMYAT is for children 15 years and younger and it typically attracts more than 1500 young anglers and all proceeds benefit the Mobile Jaycees Children’s Christmas Shopping Tour. Please visit www.adsfr.com/ rmyat.html for more information.

Ongoing American Sport Art Museum and Archives

Located on the campus of the United States Sports Academy in Daphne, dedicated to the preservation of sports history, art, and literature. Exhibits spotlight visiting artists on a rotating basis, as well as our permanent collection of prints, sculpture, original paintings, photographs and other arts media. Free admission. Hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 1 Academy Drive, Daphne. For more information call 251.626.3303 or visit www.asama.org. Big Brother / Big Sister Mentors Needed At-risk children at Summerdale School need volunteer Big Brother Big Sister mentors. “Bigs” have fun with a child one time a week, for one hour, on school grounds, during the school year by reading a story, working puzzles, playing catch, drawing, or just being a friend. Professional training and support are provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama YMCA, Inc. For more information or to volunteer, contact Polly at 251-344-0536 ext. 104. Eastern Shore Art Center A non-profit arts organization located in beautiful downtown Fairhope, the Art Center houses four galleries with exhibits that change monthly, as well as a gallery featuring member artists’ work for sale. Admission is free. 401 Oak Street, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928.2228 or visit www.eseartcenter.com. The Exploreum The Exploreum is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. For tickets or more information visit www.exploreum.com or call 251-208-6873. 65 Government Street, Mobile.

Fairhope Museum of History The museum is full of artifacts from old Fairhope. You can see displays on Clay City, the Single Tax Association and the Civil War. You can also see personal belongings from some of Fairhope’s first families. The museum is located in downtown Fairhope at 24 North Section Street. The museum is open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, call 929-1474. Kids Night – The Wharf Every Wednesday, The Wharf will host Kid’s Night from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. in Palm Plaza with bounce houses, face painting, live animals and more for young children. The Kick Off event on June 1st will include a water surf inflatable, water slide, monkeys, face painting and more at The Wharf (4550 Main St, Orange Beach). For more information, please visit www.alwharf.com. 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. Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens Join us this June and July for Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home, a fun, informative series to help Gulf Coast gardeners and enthusiasts make the most of our extended growing season. Each workshop covers a special feature of the Gardens or Home and includes tips for making your garden more spectacular. Unless otherwise noted, all sessions are from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. in the Magnolia Room in the Gift Shop/Café building. For more information, visit www.bellingrath.org, or call 251-973-2217. Admission fees are $13 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 5-12 and free to members and to ages 4 and younger.

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. Celebration MOPS Fairhope Celebration MOPS meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. at Celebration Church, 8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope. Childcare is provided and is included in the fees. There is an annual $23.95 MOPS International membership fee and $30 per semester. Call the church office for info at 251-928-0343 or like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/celebrationmopsfairhopeal. Daily Living Skills Group for parents with children on the Spectrum Held the second Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at The Family Center, 27365 Pollard Road, Daphne. Focus is on daily living needs of families and their children, such as: Safety issues; How to have a family dinner out; Ways to assist with transition; How to talk with people who stare; Your questions, comments and suggestions.

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Family Calendar

Limited childcare slots are available. For more information, please contact Judy Bradshaw: (251) 990-7781. Daphne Neurological Disease Support Group (Includes Parkinson’s Disease, epilepsy). Meets second Monday of each month at Daphne United Methodist Church, 2401 Main Street, Daphne, in the Community Life Center-Gathering Room. 11:00 a.m. until noon. Noon light lunch for $3 from 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. Speaker or joint group session. Contact person: Alice Hallford - 251-626-8228. Fairhope MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) We meet 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. every 2nd & 4th Monday (during the school year) at Fairhope United Methodist Church. All mothers of young children are welcome. Email fairhopemops@yahoo.com for how to register.

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Father Central of Daphne *Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men, $75 giftcard upon completion. Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Call 251-626-1610 to register, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Chill Skills” - Anger Management by appointment. $25 giftcard upon completion. Call 251-626-1610 schedule, The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Nurturing Parenting, everything you need to know but were afraid to ask. Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Jump in on any Thursday! Call 251-6261610 to register, 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne. MOPS on the Eastern Shore MOPS stands for “Mothers of Preschoolers” - but don’t let that confuse you. MOPS is about meeting the needs of every mom of a child from conception through kindergarten with local groups of moms just like you. 7100 Spanish Fort Blvd., Spanish Fort. 1st Thursday of the Month (September through May). Dinner & Child Care are provided. 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. http://www.mopsontheeasternshore.shutterfly.com/ Facebook.com/MopsOnTheEasternShore. Shepherd’s Place (Christian Life Center) Ministry for memory & physically challenged. Mondays & Wednesdays 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 South Section Street, Fairhope. 928-1148. Single Mom Ministry Sponsored by Fairhope Avenue Baptist Church, this prayer and support group for single moms is designed to provide a safe and prayerful environment where group members are able to express themselves among others who will listen, care, and lift each other up. Each participant will receive one bag of non-perishable food items each week. Child care will be provided. Light snacks and soft drinks will be served. Meetings are held every Tuesday from 6-7 PM at Fairhope Avenue Baptist Family Life Center, 8717 Fairhope Ave. 251-928-0890. SOS (Survivors of Suicide) This group is for adults who has ever lost a loved one to suicide. If it has been 5 days or 50 years since the loss, this group is here for you. SOS meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of EVERY month from 6:30 to approximately 8:00 p.m. at the Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 S. Section Street, Fairhope. The support group, which has been around since November, 2012, is facilitated by a professional and co-facilitated by two survivors. There are no dues. For more information, please email jlbarber5@ bellsouth.net or call 251-455-6453. Tango by the Bay ~ Argentine Basic classes are held every Tuesday from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. in Fairhope at Southern Edge Dance Studio, located behind Pizza Hut across from Thomas Hospital. 251 South Greeno, Fairhope. $5 per class (fee may be higher with special guest instructors). For more information Contact Ben Samel at 605-2657 or Cassie Fishbein 377-4069, cassief13@aol.com. South Baldwin Regional Medical Center offers the following classes: Your entire family can take part in several informative

June2016

classes designed to help moms and dads welcome their special new addition to the family with more confidence. Classes cover topics including: Having A Healthy Pregnancy Nutrition, discomforts of pregnancy, warning signs of complications, and relaxation exercises. One session. $10. Prepared Childbirth Classes (Once a week for four weeks). Cost: $30 Week 1: Begin the Stages of Labor: The labor and delivery process, signs and stages of labor, options for coping, pain management, vaginal delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 2: Delivery and Cesarean Birth: A review of complications that may arise, use of special equipment, complete the stages of labor, cesarean delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 3: New Born and Postpartum Care: Newborn appearance, caring for the newborn, infant safety, recognizing complications, relaxation exercises, and choosing a pediatrician. What to expect after delivery, understanding the physical and emotional changes to your body, and relaxation exercises. Week 4: The Art of Breast Feeding: The benefits of breast feeding for mother and baby, anatomy and physiology of the breast, how to breastfeed, and common difficulties. One session. • Tiny Toes members may enroll in Yoga, Water Aerobics and Expectant Mother Exercise classes through the Snook Family YMCA. The fee is $5 a class. There is a $3 fee for child care. There is no fee if you are already a member of the YMCA. All classes are located at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center–1613 North McKenzie Street Foley. Tuesday evenings 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Classroom A. Located just off of the main lobby. • Please plan to attend the Healthy Pregnancy Class during your first trimester and the Prepared Childbirth Classes anytime after your 24th week of pregnancy. For more information or to enroll please call the OB Educator at 949-3676 to schedule. We look forward to sharing this special time with you! Method of payment accepted: Visa, Master Card, Discover, AmEx, Debit Card. Gift of Life The Gift of Life is a required maternity care program for Medicaid patients or Medicaid-eligible patients. The Gift of Life Program provides a caring system of prenatal services; education and care coordination for expectant moms and their babies. For additional information please contact 949-3781. Thomas Hospital offers the following classes: Breastfeeding Class  Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Monthly, first Tuesday, 6 - 8 p.m.  Free. Infant CPR and Safety Class  Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Pre-registration required.  To register call 279-1373.  Saturdays, 4 - 6 p.m.  Moving Through Labor Childbirth Classes Three or four-week prepared childbirth class series which prepares the mother-to-be and her support partner for the labor and delivery experience. $30 fee for the class series. Thomas Fitness Center, (Fairhope) Mondays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope) Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.  Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Tuesdays, 6-8:30 p.m.  Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Pre-registration required. Call 251- 279-1373 or visit www. thomashospital.com for upcoming classes and registration. Natural Childbirth Classes, Fertility Awareness, Mother’s Comfort, Exercise and Nutrition For class schedule or more information call Geralyn Piizzotti, 251- 928-9396. Yourbodyyourbirth@bellsouth.net. Newborn Basics Class Held on the second Monday of every month from 6 – 8 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Free. No Preregistration required. Pre-admission Sessions 6 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Pre-registration required.

Sibling Class   Thomas Hospital Fitness Center (Fairhope).   Pre-registration required.  To register call 279-1373.  10 - 11 a.m.   Thomas Hospital offers the following support groups for the community: Alanon (Alcoholics Anonymous) Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 800-477-1104 for more information. Alateen Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room East Tower meeting room at Thomas Hospital. Call 391-1152 for more information. Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 345-7645 or 438-9590 for more information. ALS Support Group Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month from 11 a.m. to noon at Thomas Medical Center. Call 205937-4415 for more information. Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Health Resource Center located at: 308 S. Greeno Road, Fairhope. Call 928-8650 for more information. Cancer Support Group-Family Connected by Ribbons Support group for cancer survivors, friends and family. Open to any types of cancer. Every first Thursday of every month from 6 - 8 p.m. Morphy Conference Room (Old ER entrance) at Thomas Hospital, Fairhope. Preregistration not required. Call 209-1229 for more information.

Cancer Support Group for Women Meetings are held the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room. For more information, call Patti Huval at 209-1229. Diabetes Support Group Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Diabetes Center. Call 279-1700 for more information. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Support Group Meetings are held every Thursday night from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 251- 9656264 for more information. Parkinson’s Support Group Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month from noon to 1 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251455-9919 for more information. Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Support Group Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251626-6337 for more information. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of these calendar events. However, you should call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

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Captain America:

The Angry Birds Movie MPAA Rating: PG Overall: C+ Violence: C+ Sexual Content: B+ Language: BAlcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated The Angry Birds Movie PG for rude humor and action. Undoubtedly you’ve heard of the Angry Birds that roost within millions of smartphones worldwide. The game has managed to attract broad demographic appeal -- in fact watching his 85-year-old mother play the game on her iPad is what led executive producer David Maisel to approach the creators of these bombastic birds and talk about making a movie. So what will take place during our 97-minute peek into the life of the Angry Birds? Pretty much what you’d expect -- birds bombing pigs (in case you aren’t aware, green pigs are the birds’ adversary) and destroying structures while trying to avoid crates of TNT. And there is an ever-so-thin storyline that leaves you wondering if there’s a deeper message to this movie or if you’re just hallucinating on too much green soda. Red (voice of Jason Sudeikis) is the iconic main character of the game and the movie. He, along with all the other birds in this universe, inhabit one happy little island. But he is not happy. The invented backstory depicts Red as an abandoned, bullied child who was mercilessly teased for having big, bushy eyebrows. Now he has a permanently negative disposition and the more time he spends amongst the cacophony of life surrounding him, the angrier he gets. Not surprisingly, his job as a cake delivering birthday clown doesn’t suit him well. When he has an angry meltdown and smashes a cake into a client’s face he ends up in an ager management with a flock of other angry birds. Sitting in the therapy circle are more characters that will be familiar to game players: The speedy yellow duck-like Chuck, the can’t-help-himselffrom-blowing-up Bomb and the huge, glowering Terence. Leading these fowl offenders toward a more controlled emotional future is Matilda (voice of Maya Rudolph) a sophisticated bird with a penchant for yoga. As expected, Red isn’t doing well with in class and when a strange ship captained by a green pig (voice of Bill Hader) appears on the island’s shore Red refuses to join the other birds’ welcoming overture. If you play the game, you’ll immediately recognize that these swine are trouble and they will be the target of all the birds’ anger by the end of the game… er… movie. It’s the movie message that may leave parents wondering what to think. You, or your kids, may have used these birds to bomb those green pigs in the past and if so you know the villans’ motive is to steal the birds’ eggs and eat them for breakfast. It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt, and when the scenario is put into a story arc the implied pro-violence theme seem more overt. Perhaps you’ll be pleased to see a film that doesn’t shun anger but instead teaches that frustration is an emotion that, if directed appropriately, can motivate us to fight for important goals -- in this case the lives of the birds’ children. Or you may instead be troubled by a xenophobic overtone of a story that teaches children to reject anyone who appears in your world that doesn’t look and act like you. Or you may simply wish you would have saved your movie dollars for something else.

Civil War

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: D+ Sexual Content: A Language: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated Captain America: Civil War PG-13 for extended sequences of violence, action and mayhem. I’ve been watching superhero movies for over two decades and have often wondered who paid for the massive collateral damages after the good guys annihilate the bad guy. Not only is there incredible destruction of property, there is also the loss of so many innocent lives. Now that very question is being asked by the United Nations after an Avengers’ operation in Lagos, Nigeria goes awry and leaves buildings destroyed and many people dead. This “final straw” leads to the development of the Sokovia Accord, a document that places The Avengers under the oversight of an international governing body. Not surprisingly, some of the members of the fighting force disagree with the notion of having to work within government and agendas. Steve Rogers aka Captain America (Chris Evans) is primary amongst this group. However, Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) is still reeling with guilt after his Siri-gone-wrong Ultron experiment led to the destruction of Sokovia. And that motivates the Iron Man to support the proposal and try to convince the others to follow his lead. These political differences further grow after a prominent political leader is killed in a terrorist blast where the chief suspect turns out to be an old friend of Steve Rogers. Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) was Rogers’ WWII buddy until he was captured and became a victim of a Soviet-era mind control experiment. Nevertheless, he saved the Captain’s life in the last movie and now Rogers is convinced Barnes is once again, being used as a pawn. But Tony Stark isn’t buying any of it. He wants Rogers, and the other team members supporting him, put in jail after they thwart a police attempt to capture Barnes. This disagreement eventually leads to the ultimate superhero showdown on the tarmac of a German airport. A dozen Avengers, split evenly with six on each side, duke it out in a fight that will have fans forgetting they ever wanted popcorn. All that fighting will also be the primary reason some parents may want to put the brakes on young kids seeing this movie. And you’ll hear a few scatological expletives and other profanities as well. Ironically, this story about placing responsibility on these enhanced humans for their reckless destruction of property and life is full of scenes featuring reckless destruction of property and life. These concerns aside, my sarcasm shouldn’t be taken to mean this film is a total waste of time. If you’re a Marvel fan, you’ve probably already bought into the first few movies and this one will satisfy.

What Parents need to know about Captain America: Civil War...

Violence: Violence is pervasive in this film which depicts characters fighting with hands/fists, weapons (such as guns, knives, arrows, claws and a boomerang-like shield), and super-human powers. Characters are shot, beaten, crushed, electrocuted, dismembered, fall from heights and blown up in explosions. Blood, bruises and grotesque injuries are shown. Characters are tortured, one with the treat of drowning – and death is implied. Characters experience pain (moaning and screaming heard) when they are given experimental drugs. Sexual Content: A couple kisses. A man and woman quickly move away from one another when a teen boy walks into the room: the man later makes remarks to the boy about how attractive the woman is. Language: The script includes infrequent moderate profanities, frequent mild curses, some terms of deity used as expletives and rude slang. Alcohol / Drug Use: Experimental medicine is administered to people in a lab.

What Parents need to know about The Angry Birds Movie...

Violence: Frequent slapstick antics are presented in a comedic context. Other non-graphic violent depictions include explosions, law-breaking, lying, betrayal, robbery, acts of revenge and self defense. Some deaths are implied. Sexual Content: Sexual innuendo and slang terms for body parts are often used. Potty humor and crude bodily functions (such as urinating) are depicted. Language: Mild profanity and terms of deity are used infrequently. Some near–swear words are heard, along with name-calling and slurs. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters drink what may be alcohol at a bar. Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016

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plan

1. Stay informed

2. Learn about basic injury and disease prevention 3. Look for the most current information on emergency preparedness 4. Create a family preparedness plan 5. Become familiar with the emergency plans of your community

prepare store essential items Water Food Can Opener First Aid Kit Flashlight

Radio Clothes Personal Care Items Important Documents

practice Practice and review your preparedness plan every six months Plan. prepare. practice.

http://www.adph.org

Zika virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of infected mosquitoes. These mosquitoes typically lay eggs in and near standing water in items such as buckets, bowls, animal dishes, flower pots and vases.

Avoid the Bite! You can help prevent the spread of Zika and other mosquito-borne diseases by preventing mosquito bites and breeding. For the most up-to-date information on Zika Virus and other mosquito-borne diseases in Alabama, visit www.adph.org/mosquito or call 1-800-252-1818.