Eastern Shore Parents Magazine June 2017 by KeepSharing

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From the moment your baby is born through childhood and adolescence, your relationship with a skilled and caring pediatrician is crucial to the health and well-being of your child. That’s why it’s so important to find a pediatrician who

makes you feel comfortable and confident every inch of the way. Pediatrician Amanda Calhoun, M.D., and Internist/Pediatrician Regina Felkner, D.O., focus on your child’s overall health, providing routine checkups, immunizations, allergy care, and diagnosis and treatment of childhood illnesses.

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June2017 62

Volume 10 Number 1

52 Columns

6 Publisher’s Note Lynn Knighton

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

Kayaking Baldwin County

Simplest Love for Father’s Day

Discover one of the best family adventures right here at home.

Making Dad feel special when you’re wiped.

16 Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

42 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

44 Dave Says Dave Ramsey

50 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

2017 Summer Fun

Give your kids a summer to remember with these local and nearby activities!

Teaching Kids to Enjoy Nature

76 Get This!

Six ideas for getting your kids outside...and loving it!

Gerry Paige Smith

84 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

On The Cover Cora Cuhaj (9) and Steven Dorie (5), daughter and son of Kellie and Michael Dorie of Spanish Fort. Proud grandparents are Joe and Maggie Cuhaj of Daphne. Cora loves animals and enjoys her hip-hop and ballet dance classes. Steven likes Pokemon, swimming and playing with his friends.

Departments 10

Bits and Pieces 18

School Bits 86

Family Calendar 92

Movie Reviews

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Publisher’sNote School is out and summer vacation is finally here! The past couple of weeks I felt like I was struggling through the last bit of a marathon. “Eye of the Tiger” and the theme song from Chariots of Fire kept running through my head. I was trying to press on and make it to the finish line…summer break! While I am a person who loves routine, I felt like I was about to go stir crazy. There were days I felt I was living the movie Groundhog Day. Same thing. Different day. Maybe it is because I work from home. Sure, it definitely has its benefits, but having a home office means you are there all the time. I find myself taking my laptop to a coffee shop just for a change of scenery. One day my husband suggested I sit outside in the yard and work. As the sun beamed down on my face I thought, “Ahhh, Vitamin D therapy. That’s just what I needed.” There is just something completely rejuvenating about the sun on your skin and fresh air in your lungs. In an age where we are constantly on our computers and devices it is important that we remember to take it outside some of the time. Yes, I was still on my computer working, but it was much more enjoyable outdoors admiring God’s handy work. Now that the kiddos are out of school there is a threat that they will fall into a cycle of video games and devices. Why not make it a priority this summer to be sure they get outdoors more? Sarah Lyons has some great ideas in this month’s article, Teaching Kids to Enjoy Nature on page 78. I especially like the idea of sharing meals outside. If you are looking for something a little more adventurous maybe plan a kayak outing with your family. Barry Nowlin, a resident of Baldwin County, has provided us a wonderful article on ways to enjoy the beautiful waterways of Baldwin County via kayak. You can find Barry’s article on page 52. A special thank you to Michael Dorie of 5 Rivers Delta Safaris for the lovely photos that accompany this exciting article. I can’t wait to get my family on the water to explore some of the locations we have never visited, and revisit some familiar areas. Are you looking for even more activities this summer? Then make sure you check out the Summer Activities Guide on page 56. Here you will find an extensive list of area amusement parks, zoos, bowling alleys, skating rinks, libraries, and many more family outing suggestions. If you are looking to register your children for a Vacation Bible School, you will find our VBS Listing on page 80. And if all of those activities are not enough to keep you busy, then you will also want to check out our Family Calendar. It’s packed full of events as the summer kicks off in Baldwin County! Not only are we celebrating summer this month, but we are also celebrating Dad. Maybe the dad you are celebrating would enjoy a day kayaking with the family or he may just be looking forward to a nice, peaceful day napping in a hammock. However he would like to spend his day, make sure you recognize him for all of his contributions. You don’t have to plan anything elaborate, in fact, if your husband or dad is anything like mine, they really don’t need or want a fancy celebration. A simple, yet special, day of recognition is often all dad wants. Laurie Zottmann shares some ways to let dad know you care in her article, Simplest Love for Father’s Day - Making Dad Feel Special When You’re Wiped on page 46. Speaking of special, I want to thank my husband Brad for all he does for us each and every day. His love and support for us means the world to me. Happy Father’s Day, Brad! And to ALL the dads out there, Happy Father’s Day to you!

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.

lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Christa Weinberg Contributing Writers Mark Gregston Carolyn Jabs Sarah Lyons Barry Nowlin Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Robert L. Rux, M.D. Gerry Paige Smith Laurie Zottman

Cover Photography Stephanie Hanway www.StephanieHanwayPhotography.com

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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 2017 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Eastern Shore Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

Lynn Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source

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South Baldwin Medical Group at GlenLakes 22394 Miflin Road, Building 2, Suite 203 Foley EXTENDED HOURS: Open 7 a.m. Mondays-Thursdays 251-943-3622 South Baldwin Medical Group at McKenzie Street Internal Medicine/Pediatrics 1711 N. McKenzie Street, Suite 102 Foley 251-952-6631 South Baldwin Medical Partners 1518 N. McKenzie Street, Suite 400 Foley 251-424-1130

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Summer Expectations For An 18-Year-Old Q:

What can we reasonably expect of our 18-year-old daughter when she comes home on weekends from her summer job? She usually heads straight to her boyfriend’s family’s home and rolls in around 3 a.m. on Friday and Saturday night. We’d love to have a family meal with her. Do we say, “Dinner is at 6 o’clock and it would mean a lot to us if you’d join us,” and let it go at that or should we insist that she have at least one evening meal with us? Finally, she comes through like a hurricane, runs around seeing all her friends and departs leaving her room a mess—dirty clothes on the floor, items that could pose a danger to our dog; and just basically inconsiderate all around. We’ve spoken to her but it’s gone in one ear and out the other.

In a perfect world your daughter would come home on Friday evening, have dinner and spend the evening with you, pick up

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

with her boyfriend on Saturday after lunch, come home that evening before midnight, do her own laundry, and leave behind a tidy room when she tearfully departs on Sunday. In other words, in a perfect world your daughter would not be a somewhat typically self-absorbed young adult. She would be grateful, respectful, considerate, and have her priorities in proper order. In an even more perfect world, you would be able to gently persuade your daughter to your point of view and if that didn’t work, enforce your expectations upon her with some combination of consequences. She would then see the error of her ways, apologize, promise to be more sensitive, and never give you a moment’s problem ever again. But as you are well aware, the perfect world of the previous two paragraphs does not exist. Furthermore, a case could be made (therefore, I will make it) for selfabsorption being a normal reaction to the

combined excitement of freedom, some degree of financial independence, adult legal status, and young love. Based on her entrepreneurial bent, I predict that unlike more than one-third of her generation (millennials), your daughter will not come back home to live with you after college. That deserves a great big “Hoo-Hah!” if anything ever did. You have to decide what sort of relationship you want with your daughter from this point on. It can either be tense, bumpy, and conflict-ridden or relaxed, smooth, and peaceful. I will assume you’d prefer the latter, so here are two things to consider: First, the behavior you’re seeing from your daughter at this point in her life is temporary. She is justifiably intoxicated with the novelty of her new life situation. Given that she is obviously not a wild, irresponsible person, that will all settle down in due time. Second, whether the relationship from this point on is bad or good is pretty much up to you. You can make a big deal of her self-absorbed behavior or you can roll with it and let it run its course. I strongly recommend rolling with it. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series

The City of Fairhope returns with the 3rd 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. The Downtown Fairhope Business Association will be giving away glowin-the-dark items. For more information on the Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series, call 251-929-1466.

Pirates Cove 11th Annual Autism FUNraiser

The Annual Illuminating Autism FUNraiser at Pirates Cove is a three-day event, held June 2 - 4. The event offers food, fun and live music on the sandy shores of the laid-back beach restaurant. During our 11th Annual FUNraiser we will draw down on two 2017 4X4 JEEPs from Gulf Chrysler, one on Saturday and another one on Sunday. We also have a silent auction both days during event. More than 200 businesses donate services and products to be auctioned during the event’s Silent Auction. Prizes range from spa gift certificates to movie passes and fishing equipment to artwork. Silent auction times are Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Cover is $10.

2017 Coastal Seafood Craze

The Alabama Coastal Foundation is excited to host the sixth annual Coastal Seafood Craze! The Craze will partner with the Mobile Bay Bears at the Hank Aaron Stadium Event Center. The Coastal Seafood Craze invites local restaurants to feature dishes made with locally caught seafood. Also, this year we are excited to recycle the oyster shells as part of our AL Oyster Shell Recycling Program. 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! Mark your calendar for June 8 and plan to join us! A $25 ticket includes delicious seafood, a beverage, and admission to the Bay Bears game! Please visit www.joinacf.org for more information and to purchase tickets.

2nd Annual Red, White & Bike Parade

Exceptional Foundation Gulf Coast is excited to announce the 2nd annual Red, White & Bike parade, Saturday July 1st at the Faulkner Halstead Amphitheater in Downtown Fairhope. This event will be enjoyed by people of all ages showing their patriotic pride with red, white and blue decorated bikes, strollers, wagons, and more parading in the streets. This is a family event and will also have many other activities after the parade, including a pie eating contest, face painting and much more! The event will be held from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Adult's bike $15; Child's bike $10; Family of 5 or more $30; Wagon $5; Golf Cart 20; Pie Eating $10. For more information find our event on Facebook, visit our website at www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org or call 251-625-8955.

Fuse Project Surpasses 50 Teams for Annual Dragon Boat Festival

Fuse Project is excited to announce their annual Dragon Boat Festival on Saturday, June 10, at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park. Teams of 20 paddlers, a drummer and an experienced steerer race 250 meters in 46-foot authentic Hong Kong style dragon boats. Fuse Project’s Dragon Boat Festival is a family-friendly, alcohol-free event. In addition to watching the races, there will be food trucks, a petting zoo, a trackless train, jumpies for children, pony rides, plus all of the wonderful exhibits of the Battleship. To learn more, email Adrienne@FuseProject. org or register to participate at: https://dragonboat.fuseproject.org. Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

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Family Promise Hosts Boston Butt Sale

Family Promise of Baldwin County, Inc, a homeless shelter program for families with children, is hosting their annual Father’s Day Boston Butt Sale to raise money for program operations. Tickets are on sale now for $35 and must be prepurchased from the website at www.familypromisebc.org or by calling us at 251-9475641. Deadline to purchase is Wednesday, June 14. Pick up date will be on Saturday. June 18 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. 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.

Recycling Tattoos for Kids at the Original Oyster House

Kids! Become an Oyster Trailblazer this summer at the Original Oyster House! During your next meal at Original Oyster House, simply answer 5 true-or-false questions on the kid’s menu about the benefits of Oyster Shell Recycling and oysters. Oyster Trailblazers earn an Oyster Shell Recycling tattoo or sticker provided by the Alabama Coastal Foundation while supplies last along with the alligator toy that accompanies kids’ meals at the Original Oyster House. “Our mission is to improve and protect Alabama's coastal environment through cooperation, education, and participation,” explained Ginny Barnas, public engagement coordinator for the Alabama Coastal Foundation. “One way we do this is through our wonderful children programs including Bay Buddies, which teaches basic conservation concepts to young students; Coastal Kids Quiz, which is similar to a scholar’s bowl for fifth-graders interested in coastal resources, conservation, and the environment; and Mobile Bay Estuary Corps, a hands-on educational program for middle schoolers to name a few. So it’s a great fit to partner with our restaurants on Oyster Shell Recycling education. The tattoos and stickers are a fun incentive to challenge kid’s knowledge of oysters and hopefully instill a passion for our next generation of marine biologists, educators, environmentalists and advocates.” Spearheaded by the Alabama Coastal Foundation (ACF), the Oyster Shell Recycling Program is made possible through a two year grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF). The program recycles oyster shells from restaurants and will put them back into Alabama waters, enhancing oyster production among other benefits. The Original Oyster House helped to pilot Alabama’s first oyster shell recycling program in October of 2016. ACF estimates that 2.5 million shells will be collected this year.

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SummerTide Brings Bluegrass to the Beach

Kids Gulf Discovery Day at Bellingrath

The University of Alabama’s professional summer theatre, SummerTide, will bust out the banjos this summer during its 14th season. The cast of SummerTide will present “Smoke on the Mountain”, a 1930’s musical comedy set in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains. Join the Sanders family as they return to performing after a five year break. When Pastor Oglethorpe hires them to revive his congregation at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, the Sanders’ inspire everyone through song and reveal a few family imperfections along the way. The show’s infectious combination of gospel and bluegrass music will launch the audience into a harmonious sing-along spirit. “Smoke on the Mountain” will run June 2 to June 30, 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 29 at 251.968.6721.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

Come to Bellingrath Gardens and Home on Wednesday, June 14, for 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 from 9 a.m. to noon. Guests may also take a 45-minute guided cruise along the beautiful Fowl River with our friends from Wild Native Delta Safaris! Cruise times are 9:30, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., weather permitting. Fees are $8 for adults and $6 for ages 5-12 (free to ages 4 and under). Reservations are required for the cruise; to register, call 251.973.2217. Kids Gulf Discovery Day admission is $13 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 5-12. No admission fee for Bellingrath members or for 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.

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Distinguished Young Women Invites the Gulf Coast Community to Participate in 60th National Finals

Distinguished Young Women will welcome the Class of 2017 to Mobile on Sunday, June 18 to participate in the 60th National Finals. One participant from every state will compete for a share of thousands of dollars in cash scholarships and the opportunity to represent the program as the Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2017. Following their arrival, the participants will take part in a number of activities and events in the Mobile community and surrounding Gulf Coast area. DYWomen officials would like to cordially invite Gulf Coast residents to participate in the following events: Arrival Ceremony: Sunday, June 18 @ 3:00 p.m. – Mobile Civic Center Grand Lobby. Help us welcome the Distinguished Young Women Class of 2017 to Mobile for two weeks of activities and preparation for the 60th National Finals competition. Extravaganza at the Shoppes at Bel Air: Friday, June 23 @ 4:30 p.m. – Bel Air Mall. Don't miss your chance to come out and meet all 51 of the state representatives and the Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2016, Tara Moore. During this fun-filled evening, you will be able to choose from many different activities to do with the representatives. You can even get their autographs and have your photo taken with them! Wintzell’s Oyster Eating Contest: Monday, June 26 @ 11:45 a.m. – Wintzell's Oyster House (Downtown Mobile). Watch as the Class of 2017 gets a taste of a Gulf Coast delicacy! Autograph Session and Community Night sponsored by Encore Rehabilitation: Wednesday, June 28 @ 5:30 p.m. – Mobile Civic Center Theater East Exhibit Area with show to follow @ 6:00 p.m. in the Mobile Civic Center Theater. Visit with all 51 special young women and then get a sneak peek of the Distinguished Young Women Class of 2017 as they perform selections from the 60th National Finals Program. With performances from the “Has Beens,” current Distinguished Young Woman of America, Tara Moore, and other special guests, your entire family is sure to enjoy this community event. Admission is $5.00 per person. Saucy Q’s Rib Eating Contest: Thursday, June 29 @ 12:00 p.m. – Saucy Q’s (Downtown Mobile). How much barbeque sauce can one napkin hold? Join us as the Class of 2017 clean the bones and then clean up the mess! 60th National Finals – Preliminaries & Finals Night: Thursday, June 29th, Friday, June 30th @ 7:00 p.m. – Mobile Civic Center Theater. Join us for the Distinguished Young Women Preliminary Competitions on Thursday and Friday as the Class of 2017 competes in fitness, talent and self-expression. On Thursday night, awards will be presented for community-supported cash scholarships and on Friday night for the Distinguished Young Women competition categories. Finals Night: Saturday, July 1st @ 7:00 p.m. – Mobile Civic Center Theater: On Saturday evening, help us in celebrating 60 years of inspiring young women during the Distinguished Young Women National Finals. Check out the ten finalists as they compete in fitness, talent and self-expression and enjoy performances from Tara Moore, Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2016. At the end of the night, one young woman will be named Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2017. Tickets for the Distinguished Young Women Preliminaries and National Finals are $88 for all three nights. Individual night tickets are also available. To purchase tickets, please contact Valerie at the Distinguished Young Women National Office 251.438.3621. For more information visit www.DistinguishedYW.org. To view the live webcast of the Distinguished Young Women National Finals, visit website on Thursday – Sat., June 29 – July 1 at 7:00 p.m. CST. To see photos of participants from their time in Mobile, visit www.fpvision.com.

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Smoke on the Coast Food & Fireworks Festival

Spanish Fort Town Center is hosting Smoke on the Coast Food & Fireworks Festival 2017 on Saturday, July 1. Join us at 6 p.m. for food trucks, live musical entertainment featuring the Mulligan Brothers and Jamell Richardson, children's activities and the region's most exciting fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.! Town Center Park is located at 29000 Bass Pro Drive, Spanish Fort. For more information, visit SpanishFortTownCenter.com.

Miss Heritage Pageant Winners

The inaugural Miss Heritage pageant was held recently at the Douglasville School of Arts & Recreation in Bay Minette. The program, sponsored by Youth Act!on Entertainment Inc., was part of a big weekend of May Day Activities. Contestants competed in three divisions: Miss Heritage (Ages 10-13), Little Miss Heritage (Ages 6-9) and Petite Miss Heritage (Ages 3-5). The winners include: first runner-up, Trekerria Smith; second runnerup, Amiah Jones. Little Miss Heritage - Stori Palmer; first runner-up, Aleyah Morrison; second runner-up, Shilya Kirkland. Petite Miss Heritage: Beyla Crook; first runner-up, Alysse Fields; second runnerup, Taylor Palmer. Numerous preliminary awards were also presented at the conclusion of the pageant. Pictured, winners from left, Aleya Morrison, Stori Palmer, Shilya Kirkland, Alysse Fields, Taylor Palmer, Beyla Crook, Amiah Jones, Trekerria Smith, and Jordan Curry.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

The Mosquitos Are Coming! Yep, it’s that time of year- the weather is getting hot, we are starting the afternoon rain season, and the kids are outside when the sun is going down. And guess what…your kids are covered in bug bites. Because of our generally mild winter and the heavy rains, the bug season is here in full force and will be one of the worst ever. So, what can you do? Today we will discuss the various bugs that are causing trouble in south Alabama, ways to reduce mosquito growth around your house, how to protect your kids, and what to do if you or your child gets bitten. There are lots of bugs that can cause trouble down here. Of course we all know about mosquitoes, but we have also seen an increase in red bugs (they live in pine straw or hay), ticks, fleas, yellow flies and “no-see-ums.” While the various bug bites are annoying, luckily, there is low risk of something serious happening. Everyone has heard of Lyme disease from tick bites, but it is very rare in south Alabama. Everyone has also heard of West Nile disease from mosquito bites, but again, very rare. You can also have bug bites get a secondary bacterial infection like MRSA. Now, just because they are rare doesn’t mean that these can’t occur, so with any bites, be on the lookout for any

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

fever, red streaks, red target-looking lesions, headache or altered mental status. What can you do to prevent your child from getting bitten? First, mosquitoes hatch in water, so if there is any standing water near your house, they will be there. After every rain, walk around your property and dump out any standing water to reduce growth. Next, try to avoid having your kids outside during peak bug times- dawn and dusk. If your kids are going to go outside, it’s a good idea to have them be covered up in light colored, long sleeve (if possible) clothing and you can try to “hide them” from the mosquitoes by wiping them down with dryer sheets or spraying them with a mosquito repellent containing 5% or less of DEET. Parents always ask me why some people get bitten by bugs, and others don’t get bitten at all. There are a lot of theories and scientists haven’t definitively answered the questions, but basically some people release certain hormones that attract bugs and some people release hormones that actually hide you or repel them. It’s all based on your genes, so you can blame your parents. I also have people tell me all the time that their kids are allergic to bug bites (I don’t mean bees or hornets- those are real) and they need allergy

testing. Well, not really. You can’t be “allergic” to mosquito bites per se, but you can have what we call a large local reaction to the bites so that your histamine system reacts very strongly and produces a lot of swelling. What can you do if your child does get bitten? I always tell folks to carry a small tube of topical Benadryl cream or steroid cream if you are going to be in a high risk area. Check your kids frequently and put a small dab on each bite and it will stop it from becoming a large, swollen area. Sometimes, a collection of bites can really lead to some impressive swelling and you have to give your child an anti-histamine by mouth. Look on the back of the bottle and follow the instructions. If you don’t see you child’s age or weight, then contact you healthcare provider. If any of the above serious reactions occur, then definitely call them! Checkout some resources at cdc.gov and mobilecountyhealth.org and put on sunscreen! 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

Robertsdale Kindergartners Enjoy Day of Bowling

Kindergarten students from Robertsdale Elementary enjoyed a field trip to Gulf Bowl in Foley. Although no one scored a 300, a good time was held by all.

Gulf Shores Elementary Student Wins Robotics Award

Lauren Calvert, Gulf Shores Elementary School student, recently won first place in HardwareRobotics for her age group at the ACTE (Alabama Council For Technology in Education) State Technology Fair. The Fair was held at the Auburn university campus in Montgomery, on April 29. Lauren's Project was titled A.D.A.M (Autonomous Data Acquisition Machine): The intent of A.D.A.M. was to create an autonomous boat that could be launched into a body of water along a predefined path to collect pH (or other) data. The data can then be uploaded and turned into a 3 dimensional map of pH to get a better understanding of the water environment.

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Congratulations to the Gulf Shores MS Athletes of the Year and Academic Athletes of the Year!

Alleigh Coburn and Tyler Bjorgum were named Athlete of the Year. Marleigh Green and Sam Ingraham were named Academic Athlete of the Year. Pictured from left to right: Principal Robert McCartney, Tyler Bjorgum, Marleigh Green, Alleigh Coburn, Sam Ingraham, Coach Jason Thompson.

Fairhope HS Chemistry Students Recognized at Awards Dinner

Outstanding Fairhope High School Chemistry students were recognized at an American Chemical Society awards dinner on April 24 at the University of South Alabama. The recipients include Grace Bishop, Wilson Gaberino, and Jordan Jensen for their unwavering dedication and their tireless determination to succeed in AP and IB Chemistry. Pictured from left to right are Grace Bishop, Wilson Gaberino, Amanda Jennings (Chemistry teacher at Fairhope High School), and Jordan Jensen. Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

Local Senior Students Perform in Piano Recital

The Baldwin County Music Teachers Association presented their senior piano students in a formal recital at the Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship on Sunday, May 7. Representing the studios of Tammy Dennis and Vincentine Williams the students were Steve Chen, Bayside Academy; Natalie Collins, Bayshore Christian; Hannah Smith, Spanish Fort High; Owen Trotter, Fairhope High; and Devin Van Cleave, Homeschool. Each student performed three compositions featuring pieces by contemporary composers as well as works by Bach, Chopin, Beethoven, Schumann, Shostakovich, Kuhlau and Liszt. A display of awards and scrapbooks highlighted each student's musical accomplishments throughout the years and a reception in their honor followed the program. 18

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Newton Student Wins 2nd in Baldwin County Chess Tournament

Newton students thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to sharpen their chess skills at the 2017 Baldwin County Schools Chess Tournament. Fourth grader Jaxon Read was thrilled to place 2nd in the third and fourth grade novice category.

BCHS Student Wins Statewide Art Contest

Congratulations to Baldwin County High School student Sara Johnson for winning the state-wide Wildlife Forever Art competition for the 10- to 12-grade category. Now in its 19th year, the nationwide conservation education program combines art and writing to catch the imagination of students with science to foster discovery of the natural world increasing awareness of and respect for aquatic resources.

Baldwin County Coaches’ Hall of Fame

Congratulations to Coach David Jones and Coach Shawn Weaver for being inducted into the Baldwin County Middle School Athletic Association Coaches Hall of Fame. Pictured left to right (back): Phillip Bryant, David Jones, Preston Pooser. Pictured (front): Shawn Weaver.

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Autauga County Schools

Bay Minette Elementary Supports Team Easton

Daphne East Kindergartners Learn About Building

Students in Shana Harville's class at Bay Minette Elementary raised $1,529 for Easton Carraway and family. The students have been learning about the "7 Habits of Happy Kids" and to culminate the study they chose a family to "find a meaningful way to help". Easton is a baby who is fighting cancer so the students decided to help raise money so that maybe his mom and dad would be able to stay with him in the hospital and not have to leave him. The class sold ring pops and pickles to raise the funds and also received a donation from the Carlin's Courage Foundation. Thank you to these sweet little kids with big hearts!

Jennifer Alberstadt’s kindergarten class at Daphne East Elementary read “Building With Dad” and made our book come to life by searching for the equipment around our campus. Mr. Platt enjoyed teaching us about digging footers, surveying and how they use mini excavators. What we saw: block work, concrete mixers, trowels, shovels, track hoes, rollers, lifters, surveying equipment, orange site work fencing, dump trucks, and bright yellow safety shirts. We recorded our finding in our journals.

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Spanish Fort HS Students Excel in National Spanish Exam

Congratulations to the Gold, Silver and Bronze medalists and Honor Certificate recipients in The National Spanish Exam 2017. These outstanding and dedicated students won 12 Honor Certificates, 10 Bronze Medals, 6 Silver Medal and 2 Gold Medals for Spanish Fort High School; 7 medals more than last year. Over two hundred thousand students nation-wide participated in this Exam. These students won Honor Certificates (above average, and it means they did better than 80,000 to 100,000 students nation-wide): Kaitlyn Baker, Zach Bush, Fariha Irfan, Nathaniel Lefever, Olivia Martindale, Griffin Maxwell, Clara Sabo, Madeline Sherrell, Tanner Spell, Kristin Stough, Isabella Alday and Madeline Grace. Bronze Medal: Zach Flood, Nick Gonzalez, Blake Hanby, Blake Hixon, Regan Hudson, Dalton Stuart, Gia Vollmer, Anna Wilson, Daniel Ellery and Adam Davis. Silver Medal: Natalie Burnside, Neely Hegan, Savannah Morgan, Chloe Nuñez, Luke Reosti, and Ben Stone. Gold Medal: Ana Sofia Olivar and Emily Piedra (both competed in the Bilingual category).

Silverhill Readers Earn T-Shirts

Readers are Leaders here at Silverhill Elementary! Pictured are our students (K-2 and 3-6) who earned their Accelerated Reader shirts for the year! In order to earn their shirt, students had to earn a certain number of points per grade level! So proud of our students and excited to see what they will achieve in the 2017-2018 school year!

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Autauga “Lunch County Schools Time Hero Time” Day at Orange Beach Elementary

May 5 was “Lunch Time! Hero Time!” at Orange Beach Elementary School. “Lettuce Celery-brate!” Our Lunch Heroes were showered with cards, balloons, stickers and lots of hugs from the students and staff at Orange Beach Elementary. Here 6th graders, Cooper Carpenter and Logan Wiese, delivered cards from their classmates to OBES Lunch Heroes Annette Hevner, Lisa Mikesell, Joy Howell, and Karen Byrd (not shown). Baldwin County Public Schools’ approximate 220 kitchen employees serve more than 17,500 lunches daily and 3,500 breakfasts daily with around 3.5 million pints of milk each school year. Between preparing healthy food, adhering to strict nutrition standards, navigating student food allergies, and offering service with a smile, Baldwin County Public Schools’ Child Nutrition Program (CNP) professionals have a lot on their plate. To celebrate their hard work and commitment, Baldwin County Public Schools celebrated the fifth annual School Lunch Hero Day. This day, celebrated annually since 2013, was designated by The School Nutrition Association and Jarrett Krosoczka, author of the “Lunch Lady” graphic novel series. School Lunch Hero Day provides an opportunity for parents, students, school staff and communities to thank those who provide healthy meals to 30 million of America’s students each school day.

Bay Minette Middle School Raises Money for Blood Cancer Patients

Bay Minette Middle School students and teachers rallied together to help raise money and make a difference in the lives of blood cancer patients. The BMMS Peer Helpers chose to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) as a service project for the year. Over a period of approximately two months, BMMS surpassed their goal of $1,000 and raised $1,229.00 for LLS. BMMS ranked among the top five Middle Schools in the Alabama/ Gulf Coast Chapter for money raised. Next year BMMS will strive to reach the top to raise awareness and help save lives!

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Spanish Fort Elementary School Celebrates Can Do Good Victory

On Friday, April 7, GMC presented the students at Spanish Fort Elementary School (SFES) with a check for $1,000 as the winners of the 2016-17 Can Do Good Competition for the kindergarten through fifth grade division. In addition, GMC Regional Vice President Lee Walters presented a check to the Prodisee Pantry to match the school’s donation. The third through fifth grade gifted students and student council at SFES teamed up to tackle their Can Do Good project and raised more than 3,280 canned goods and non-perishable items—the most collected by any team in the regional competition, including schools from Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina. All of the items were donated to the Prodisee Pantry to benefit families in the local community, including students who may attend SFES. When choosing a design for their Can Do Good structure, the gifted students found inspiration from one of the South’s most storied traditions: the Iron Bowl. The “Can Do Good Bowl” featured a football stadium filled with Alabama and Auburn fans, represented by orange and red cans, and a football field of green cans, complete with a Can Do Good symbol on the 50-yard line. Spanish Fort Elementary was among the top three schools that received the most votes during the online voting portion of the Can Do Good Competition, advancing them to the finals. With 571 votes, they also received the greatest number of any team in the competition. The finalists’ structures were reviewed by members of GMC’s professional architecture and engineering staff and judged based on overall theme, aesthetics, structural soundness, level of difficulty and creativity. Because of superior excellence demonstrated in all five categories, SFES was selected as the winner for the kindergarten through fifth grade division. More than 12,000 canned goods and non-perishable food items were donated to food banks and charitable organizations throughout the Southeast through the regional Can Do Good competition this year. For more information about Can Do Good, visit www.gmcnetwork.com/designbuildeat.

April Musicale at Westminster Village

Music students of Baldwin County Music Teachers Association members Vincentine Williams, Daniel DeKonty and Eric Marrero performed for the residents of Westminster Village. The concert featured piano and trombone performances, along with a special father/daughter piano duet. From left, Back Row: Albert Le, Emma Hunter, Hannah Smith, Anthony Kidd, Alex Ritter. Front Row: Isabella Hsu and Savanna Kidd.

Celebrating 47 Years of Outstanding Christian Education in Baldwin County

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Autauga CountyBayshore Schools Christian School Holds Paris-Themed Spring Dance

Bayshore Christian Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 7th through 12th grade students recently participated in their spring dances which were themed "Meet Me in Paris". The BCS gym was decorated as a Parisian street-side cafe with the Eiffel Tower in the background and a fountain to top it off in the middle of the gym! All of the students had been preparing weeks ahead of time by participating in dance lessons during PE class, and the 9th graders used their etiquette skills from Protocol class to enjoy a formal sit-down dinner. Additionally, the seniors took their last stroll before graduation in the BCS tradition of the Promenade with parents, faculty, and friends there to watch. The students had a great time showing off all of their etiquette skills and dancing the night away!

Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com!

Robertsdale Students Select Flowers for Mom

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Kindergarten students at Robertsdale Elementary enjoyed picking out a flower for their mothers from the nursery at South Baldwin Center for Technology. This is an annual event that the students, teachers and parents look forward to each year.

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Bayside Academy Senior Receives Red Ribbon Community Service Award

Bayside senior Meagan Daves was one of 16 local students honored by the Drug Education Council on April 25 to receive a Red Ribbon Community Service Award. The Mobile County Sheriff's Office hosted the awards ceremony. At the April 25 ceremony, Meagan received a $500 cash scholarship for a Red Ribbon video that she produced and that was shown at the ceremony. The video has been shared by local schools and serves as a public service announcement bringing attention to college students’ abuse of ADHD medication. Last fall, Meagan was one of three Bayside students selected to receive a Red Ribbon Leadership Award. Students were selected for exemplifying six pillars of character promoted by the national Character Counts! Initiative and the Drug Education Council: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. Red Ribbon leaders help educate their peers about the dangers of substance abuse and create and execute community service projects that promote recovery services and substance abuse prevention. “Bayside is incredibly proud of Meagan for her contributions to the Red Ribbon initiative and for the impact she is having on the local community,” said Bayside Academy Head of School Michael Papa. Pictured, Meagan receives a Red Ribbon Community Service Award from Mobile County Sheriff Sam Cochran at a ceremony on April 25.

Pastor from Africa Visits Daphne East Students

Pastor Joseph Ngida from Tanzania visited Daphne East Elementary students. He is from the Ormee School and we helped to raise money to drill for a well there. They finally hit water last week! He was so happy to share information about his tribe, his lifestyle, and about his school. We did include Mrs. Montgomery’s class (Thursday 3rd graders) and he visited with Mrs. Yelding’s class as well.

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Autauga County Schools

Fairhope Chemistry Class Studies Soapmaking

Earth Day Poster Contest Winners at Fairhope Elementary

Fairhope High School students in Mrs. Amanda Jennings’s AP Chemistry and IB Chemistry classes learn about saponification (the chemistry of soap making) from Debbie Bruijn, chemist and owner of the Fairhope Soap Company.

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Congratulations to the winners of the Earth Day poster contest. Each winner received a $25 gift certificate to Fantasy Island Toys. Kindergarten winner: Ava from Mrs. Downing’s Class. First Grade winner: Emma Grace from Mrs. Buckley’s Class. Second Grade winner: Alivia from Mrs. C. Norris’ Class. Third Grade winner: Annabelle from Mrs. Wren’s Class.

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Snook Christian Academy Students Win Art in the Park Competition

Congratulations to Snook Christian Academy students, Lexi Hall and Arrington Faiupu for winning 1st and 2nd place in Foley's Annual Art in the Park!

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May Crowning of Mary at Christ the King Catholic School

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Christ the King Catholic School students, faculty, parents, and friends gathered in procession around our campus block praying the Rosary and then filling the church with prayer and song for our May Crowning of Mary. During the month of May -- a month named for and dedicated to Mary -- Catholics around the world traditionally honor Our Blessed Mother with special devotional services like our May Crowning. The youngest second grader, Anne Portman Henry, crowned Mary this year. MontgmeryParents_COA_HeadlineAd_Chess.indd 1

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Autauga County Schools

Beta Club Inductions at Bay Minette Middle School

Bay Minette Middle School recently included new members in its Beta Club. They include: Kateland Bailey Altes, Karleigh Nicole Barac, Madison Blair Beaver, Christopher Jamere Bennett, Elizabeth Margaret Bennett, Owen Curtis Boatright, McKenzie Brooke Bryant, Andrew Reece Buck, Jazmyn Tiarra Burt, Cooper Alexander Cash, Adrienne Michelle Chamberlain, Abigail Mae Creamer, Jordan MIchelle Curry, Jillian Brooke Eslava, Chloe Bekka Fetters, Matthew John Franklin Jr., Taija Nicole Graves, Carter Steele Hall, Kylie Jean Hall, Mark O'Neal Hall Jr., Xander Stone Holbrook, Elizabeth Danielle Howard, Shamiyah Maronda Hubbard, Elin Grace Huff, Emma Claire Johnson, Sarah Autumn Jones, Madelyn Diane McKinley, Anna Grace McKinnis, Ariana Rose McMahill, Persophonie Bridgette Milligan, Matthew Benjamin Monk, Jamiah Ariana Moorer, Julia Kirsten Mosley, Abigail Rose Mulligan, Jada Chardae Murphy, Anne Elisabeth Nelson, Aaron John Nobles, Emily Mae Oestriecher, Autumn Marie Parker, Ashton Lane Pickle, Ellie Ruby Powell, Mary Alyssa Jordan Pritchett, John Michael Rice, Sera Ann Rivero, Ferris Thomas Ronquille, Emily Lauren Scarborough, Elizabeth Michele Skeen, Shyann Marie Smith, Summer Kaiden Smith, Emma Claire Stuart, Leighanna Brooke Turk, Amelia Kate Turner, Savannah KayLyn Vickrey, Jade Alexandra Vinson, Christin Alexis Wasdin, Erika Lizeth Alegria, Tonia Nachelle Anderson, Takhia Aaliyah Gray, Courtney Lynn Hall, Emily Dawn Jeter, Ashton Marquise Johnson, Ivy Jean Ledbetter, Emma Janette Quezada, Addison Jade Rhodes and Ayriel Skye Williams.

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Robertsdale Holds Lunch and Learn for Parents First grade parents enjoyed visiting second grade classes through the Lunch and Learn series being held at Robertsdale Elementary. Parents of each grade level are invited to visit classrooms of the following year to get a glimpse of the next year's curriculum, expectations and implementation of the CCRS standards. They are then invited to stay and have lunch with their child.

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Fairhope HS Piano-Lab Student Earns Piano Scholarship

The Fairhope High School Piano-Lab, under the direction of Diane Ham and funded by Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation, is celebrating a wonderful accomplishment. Clark Peterson, a senior at Fairhope High School and a Piano Lab 3 student, recently received a piano scholarship to USA. What makes this accomplishment so special is that prior to enrolling in the piano lab his sophomore year, Clark had no previous piano training. He continued studying level 2 through his junior year and completing level 3 his senior year. Clark’s hard work and dedication to the program proves what an asset the Fairhope High School Piano Program is for those students who are serious musicians. In addition to music, Clark has made engineering a possible focus of concentration at USA.

Gulf Shores Elementary Superheroes

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Gulf Shores Elementary School teachers were treated as Superheroes recently for Teachers’ Appreciation Week. Pictured are several Superheroes they get to teach daily! Pictured l to r front: Camelia Perez, Sam Creel, Braiden McCleery. Back l to r: Joey McAleer and Ashlyn Stuart.

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Autauga County Schools

Elsanor School-May 4th Quarter Pawsitive Award Winners

Congratulations to the following Elsanor School students for being selected as the 4th Quarter Pawsitive Award Winners: Decklin Randall, Levi Cain, Lilly Amos, Zeilynd Pierce, Tyler Wilson, Abbye Anderson, Cam Lucas, Sophia Martin, Rileigh Poole, Adalyn Lyles, Ryleigh Williams, Lucas Busbee, Jackson Lyles, Alejandra Espinoza-Mendez, Carmen Magana, Ashby Lucas, Abby Newkirk, and Luke Wenzel.

Baldwin County HS Band Boosters Hold Roaring 20s Jazz Concert

The Baldwin County High School Band Boosters held a special Jazz Concert with a Roaring 20s theme. The event included a dinner catered by the Band Boosters, performances by the Jazz Band, "mocktails" bar, photo booth, raffle, door prizes and a fun cake walk. There was also a costume contest for all these who dressed up for the occasion.

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Bayside Academy Coastal Kids Team Wins First Place in Science Competition

Bayside Academy’s team won first place in a Coastal Kids science competition on April 27. Each Bayside team member received a $600 scholarship check to be applied toward college funds. The Coastal Kids Quiz is an annual competition organized by the Alabama Coastal Foundation in collaboration with The Project CATE Foundation, Inc. (Conservation Action Through Education). The competition is for teams of Mobile and Baldwin County 5th graders who are interested in conservation, the environment and coastal resources. Teams compete in a round-robin style tournament with the top-scoring teams competing in a championship round to determine first and second place scholarship winners. Since the program’s inception in 2002, more than a thousand 5th graders have graduated from Coastal Kids Quiz. Also at the competition, Bayside 5th grade science teacher Carly Blankenship received the Community Partner Award, which is one of the most prestigious awards bestowed by Partners for Environmental Progress (PEP). The PEP Community Partner Award recognizes Blankenship for her dedication, enthusiasm and willingness to go the extra mile in providing 5thgraders opportunities to learn about coastal resources and environments. Pictured, Front row, left to right: Bayside 5th graders and Coastal Kids team members Jack Roussos, Michael Klimjack, Maxy Dunlap, Lucy Frailie and Emma Parvin with the team’s first place trophy. Standing behind the students is Bayside 5th grade science teacher Carly Blankenship, who received the PEP Community Partner Award.

Gulf Shores Middle School Student Wins T-Shirt Design Contest

Olivia Callahan, Gulf Shores Middle School, drew the winning t-shirt design for the BEST Robotics competition. This was a huge honor as it was chosen out of numerous schools.

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Autauga County Schools

Bayshore Christian School Class of 2017

Congratulations to the 2017 graduating class of Bayshore Christian School. These 13 students have received over $2 million in scholarship offers and have accepted over $500,000 in scholarships! They will be attending schools all over the country from Illinois and Idaho to Kentucky and Tennessee. Collectively they have won art competitions, academic awards, and athletic titles, and they have earned an average ACT score of 27. This impressive group of seniors leave behind a legacy of leadership that will stick with BCS for years to come.

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Field Day at Christ the King Catholic School

Christ the King Catholic School had an awesome Field Day this year! After the all school mass, students, teachers, and parents took to the streets for the annual Seminary Run. CTKCS donates proceeds from the sale of the run t-shirts to the Mobile Archdiocese seminarians. This year CTKCS gave a check to Fr. Victor Ingalls, Vocations Director, for $2,000. After the run it was off to the games, activities, and competition. The day ended with the seventh vs. eighth grade basketball game complete with a special half time show.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

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Bay Minette Intermediate Wins Battle of the Books

Bay Minette Intermediate School won the 6th annual "Battle of the Books" competition and bragging rights for the next year. The team was led by Gail Richerson, media specialist, and included: Dakota Brown, Destiny Brown, Bernardos Daniels, Kailey Fisher, Laneria Hart, Blake Marchman, Dominic Partin, Jalayasia Scott, Terry Spillman, Naâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Davion Steele, Cassidy Watson, Hannah White and Shamyia Whittle. Rounding out the places included: Perdido School, second place; Bay Minette Middle, third place; and Delta Elementary, fourth place. 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 "Just a Dog", "Found", "A Long Way from Chicago", "Wonder", and "On My Honor". 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 Battle of the Books 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. In addition to NBCEE, additional Battle of the Books sponsors include Bay Minette Recreation Center, Pepsi Bottling Company in Atmore, Piggly Wiggly in Bay Minette, Stockton Five Arts Club, Strickland Orthodontics and Drs. Tillery & Tyrell. 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

Fairhope Elementary Class Studies Bugs

Christ the King Coastal Kids Quiz Team Places Fourth

Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com!

Congratulations to the Christ the King Catholic School 5th grade Coastal Kids Quiz team on their fourth place finish at their competition recently. The team had five great matches and showed off their knowledge about our coastal environment and animals. From left, Trey Bauldin, Stevie Morisani, Asheton Sawyer, John Stimpson, Jesse Randolph, Ava Bowie, and Nate Hartwell.

Mrs. Wrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s class has been working on their Bug Research Projects. Students researched different bugs, made models, movies, diagrams, and slideshows to showcase all of the information that they learned. They presented all of this information to parents following the BUGZ Play.

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Gulf Shores Elementary Island Poetry Winners

Congratulations to three of Gulf Shores Elementary School's talented students for winning awards in this year's Island Poetry Contest. They each won monetary prizes along with beautiful certificates for their creative poetry. Congratulations to second grader Haven Faith Spruiell (pictured), fifth grader Peyton Parker, and sixth grader Beckham Smith.

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Gulf Shores MS Student Places in Top Ten of Color the Concept

Congratulations to GSMS student Molly Sims for placing in the top ten of the Alabama Council on Economic Education's Color the Concept contest! Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pictured with Gifted History Teacher Mrs. Butler.

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COME GROW WITH US Autauga County Schools

Orange Beach Elementary Clubs Hold Showcase Event

KINDERGARTEN ENROLLMENT NOW OPEN!

Orange Beach Elementary School held a Marlin Club Showcase Night recently where students presented family and community visitors with the products of their work this year. The Clubs are part of the “Leader In Me” work that the school is implementing to build stronger school and community leaders. Six clubs meet regularly after school with their sponsoring teacher. The clubs are: Art, Choral, Computer, Drama, Poetry and Garden. The Art Club is sponsored by Jaclyn Holland, art teacher, and has 21 members. Members exhibited and discussed their artwork and explained the process and medium of each display. The Choral Club has 21 members and is sponsored by Kris Lindley, music teacher. During the program, the Choral Club performed “This Little Light of Mine,” “What a Wonderful World,” and “Ready To Go.” With 28 members, the Computer Club is sponsored by 4th grade teacher, Nicole Godbold. The Computer Club demonstrated programs and computer work from their cluband sessions. Planting seeds of faith BCS cultivates wisdom Nicole Bryant, Sea, Sand and Stars Director, sponsored the 17 through the discovery of virtue nourishing the was a play based member Drama Club. by The Drama Club performance on the book “A Bad Case of the Stripes” by David Shannon. God's creation in science, child’s soul on The Poetry Club has six members and truth, is sponsored by Lindsey Kistler. Members read poems to the audience that they had written during art, music, and much more! goodness,theand beauty! meetings. The Garden Club, sponsored by Gayle Cahn, is the largest with 40 members strong. During the breakout session, the Garden Club gave participants a tour of the rose, flower, vegetable, and herb gardens. Students offered samples of their plants in the vegetable and herb gardens for guests to take home and taste. Sixth grade student, Maura Hawkins, was the master of ceremonies. Isabella Kellner was recognized for creating the logo for the OBES Clubs. Mr. Moss stated, “Her creativity and originality was exactly what our clubs needed to have the perfect image to represent Marlin Clubs.” Pictured, Choral Club directed by Kris Lindley.

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

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Bayshore Baseball Team Wins Panhandle Christian Conference Title

Bayshore Christian School’s spring sports teams all had impressive seasons. The BCS tennis club competed in a local junior tournament where they brought home a first and second place prize. The BCS Baseball team beat out Central Christian School to win the Panhandle Christian Conference Title for the first time ever! The BCS Softball team had a great season and placed second overall in the conference. All three teams fought hard this season and made Bayshore proud! BCS athletes are already gearing up for Soccer and Volleyball in the fall!

Rotary Youth Club Launches Teen Empowerment Program

The Rotary Youth Club of Fairhope/Point Clear launches a Teen Empowerment Program called “Breaking the Cycle” this summer designed to tackle issues from social media to peer pressure, conflict resolution and much more. Speakers will offer guidance on teamwork, self-identity, manners & etiquette, speaking skills, the dangers of drugs and alcohol and education beyond High School. Ages 13 and up are welcome to join in the program each Thursday from June 8th through August 10th. To find out more, call the club: 251.928.9148.

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Autauga County Schools

Sea Cadets Learn CPR and First Aid

This past month the Dunlap Division had special guests come in to teach the cadets CPR and First Aid. Every cadet watched a first aid training video and administered CPR on an adult and infant training dummy. By the end of the day the unit was CPR and First Aid qualified! Also, this past month the Dunlap Division was sponsored to send two seniors to a Rotary Leadership Camp. The two cadets chosen were CPO Samantha Graham and SN Olivia Bozeman. These cadets were taught the importance of being a team, how to overcome obstacles, and decision making strategies. Naval Sea Cadets is designed for young men and women ages ten to high school graduation who are interested in expanding their knowledge on our military. The sea cadets instill patriotism and leadership skills. Dunlap division meets one weekend a month at the U.S. Coast Guard Aviation Center in Mobile, the cadets are under no obligation to join the military; however, if they do decide to enlist the are usually eligible to enlist at a higher paygrade. The program does offer ROTC scholarships. If you or someone you know may be interested in joining our local unit as a cadet or adult leader, visit our national website at www.seacadets.org or contact our administrative officer ENS Angela Graham at angela. graham@hotmail.com. You may also follow our local unit Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DunlapDivision.

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Bayside Academy Holds Commencement for Class of 2017

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Commencement for Bayside Academy’s Class of 2017 took place on Sunday, May 14, on the school’s Bluff overlooking Mobile Bay. The Bayside community convened at sunset to honor the 68 graduates and wish them well on the next steps in their academic careers. Below are Class of 2017 highlights: Class of 2017 By the Numbers • Members of the Class of 2017 were accepted into 71 colleges and universities in 22 states plus the District of Columbia. • In the fall members of the Class of 2017 will be attending 28 schools in 13 states, and two of them will be internationally enrolled. • More than 85 percent of students in the Class of 2017 have received scholarships; collectively, the class has received more than $5.75 million in scholarship money. • Student-athletes from the Class of 2017 will continue their playing careers at the collegiate level in volleyball, football, baseball, soccer and—for the first time ever—lacrosse. “The Bayside community is proud of the Class of 2017 and their numerous achievements,” said Head of School Michael Papa. “For the second time in Bayside’s history, the graduating class has a Presidential Scholar.” Valedictorian & Salutatorian Trent Scott Kannegieter is valedictorian and will attend Yale University. Erin Elizabeth Brown is salutatorian and will attend Duke University. Bayside Academy’s Class of 2017 Jacob Dean Asher, Elizabeth Jacqueline Baldwin, Anna Sanford Lewis Boan, Ashley Thomas Boothe, Erin Elizabeth Brown, Katherine Claire Brown, John Farish Bryant, Lena Camille Fondé Carey, Anna Catherine Chapman, Lauren Blakely Chastang, Steve Mengxi Chen, Callie Adele Corte, Claire Elizabeth Corte, Genevieve Danielle Corte, Savannah Lee Cummins, Meagan Maureen Daves, Ariel Monét Dulaney, Calvin James Dulaney II, Lisa Engel, Lauren Elise Erdman, Rainer Clark Ezell II, Blake Thomas Giles, Madison Nicole Grace, Samuel Furman Grey, Gillian Sarah Grice, Alexandra May Hakmiller, Jacob Gray Hartley, John Overton-Chiles Hearin Jr., Madison McKenzie Hedge, Helen Marion Heebe, Mary Grace Hellmich, Pelham Hugh Henry I, Dawson Carter Jellenc, Landon Reeves Johnson, Annabelle Louise Kahalley, Trent Scott Kannegieter, Peter Gabriel Ledet, Matthew Blake Lipham, Ana Doris Lumpkin, Greer Radcliff Lyons, Laura Vaughn McLeod, Matthew Jack Mitchell, Peyton Kendall Mohler, Mary Patton Morrison, Safiya Muniruddin Mulla, John David Northcutt IV, Charles Reid Norton, Thomas Michael O’Hara Jr., Jacob Bryant Paul, Madeline Brooke Paul, Richard Skiddy Payson, Coleman Barnes Perry, Caroline Caldwell Pond, Gavin Wayne Primm, Marjorie Marie Puckett, Margaret Downie Radcliff, Maddie Lynn Seale, Connor Maxwell Sirmon, Lauren Elizabeth Smith, Lena Cole Speir, Kennedy Morgan Tarziers, Emily Mattie Thompson, Wesley Scott Thompson Jr., Haley Lynn Tripp, Hannah Catherine Turner, Anjali Anil Vira, Noah Joshua Waters, Henry Alexander Wise V.

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Bayside Senior Named 2017 U.S. Presidential Scholar

Bayside Academy senior Trent Kannegieter was recently named a 2017 U.S. Presidential Scholar. Kannegieter is one of 161 U.S. high school seniors who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, artistic excellence, leadership, citizenship, service, and contribution to school and community. The U.S. Presidential Scholars will be honored for their accomplishments at an annual ceremony June 18-20 in Washington, D.C. Also Bayside’s 2017 valedictorian, Kannegieter is the second Bayside student to receive the U.S. Presidential Scholar designation in the past 21 years. He will attend Yale University in the fall. “Trent has demonstrated excellence in academics, athletics and the arts,” said Head of School Michael Papa. “He is an academician, an athlete and an artist who functions at an extraordinarily high level in all of these areas.” The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects honored scholars annually based on their academic success, artistic excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as evidence of community service, leadership and demonstrated commitment to high ideals. The 2017 U.S. Presidential Scholars are made up of one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and from U.S. families living abroad. Also included are 15 who are chosen at-large, 20 U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts, and 20 U.S. Presidential Scholars in Career and Technical Education. Created in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has honored more than 7,000 of the nation’s top-performing students with the prestigious award. Since 1983, each U.S. Presidential Scholar has been offered the opportunity to name his or her most influential teacher. Each distinguished teacher is honored with a personal letter from the Secretary of Education. The teacher chosen for recognition by Kannegieter was Sam Small, science department chair and Upper School science teacher at Bayside Academy. Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Hope for the “Me” Generation The “Baby Boom” generation was so anxious to have good relationships with their children that they tended to set aside their primary role as parents. Their desire to be their child’s best friend nurtured the advent of a self-centered, demanding, “Me Generation” who believes the world revolves around them. But there’s hope!

Parenting in Past Generations — Too Rigid

As I’ve grown older, I see more with the eyes of my heart than I do with those on each side of my big nose. And the aging process has brought me to a greater understanding of my own mom and dad’s parenting style. I’ve learned that things really weren’t as bad as I used to think they were. My dad, like yours, was less than relational; his focus was on providing for his family. Working at the same job for 38 years; providing was his way of showing love for his family. He demanded respect. He taught us to be responsible because that’s the way he was taught, and he wanted us to live the same way. My father worked hard because he grew up during the Great Depression, and he knew first-hand the challenges of having little to live on. He also saw to it that our family was protected. Food was always on the table, a roof was always over our head, we all went to college, and the enemy he fought in the South Pacific never marched on our homeland.

Parenting in Today’s Generation — Too Relational Then, the 60’s and 70’s came along. Some called it a revolution. Millions of “Baby Boomers” fell head over heels toward relationships and feelings of love for all mankind. Our music and lifestyle expressed our desire for universal peace and love. We swooned to lyrics like “all you need is love,” and there Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

was a “whole lotta’ love” going around. And we “showered the people we love with love… showing them the way that we feel.” Then we took our desire for peace, love and affection right into our parenting style. Baby boomers as parents focused on maintaining peace and love, at all costs. We were determined to have better, stronger relationships with our kids than we had with our parents; carrying out these normally good and healthy desires to an extreme. Out of financial abundance, we gave our kids everything they ever wanted, and more. Modern conveniences allowed for more free time and less responsibility. Soccer moms equipped with minivans shuttled kids from one event or activity to another, with stops at McDonald’s in-between. We indulged, spoiled and provided too much “stuff” as misguided expressions of our love.

But Good Relationships Are Good, Aren’t They?

What’s wrong with too much love? Nothing! But there is something wrong with it if it is our only focus. To put it bluntly, placing kids on a pedestal and focusing our lives on them created feelings of entitlement. Kids began equating our love with our pocket book and our willingness to do things for them. Their thrills in life came from getting new toys, new clothes, new honors, and new excitements. They became demanding, selfish, adrenalin junkies, searching daily for new thrills. When the excitement ended or the money train slowed, they became angry. We wanted to be the best parents ever, but the more we focused our attention and our money on our kids, the more they fell into anxiety, depression, and outright defiance. After all, they wouldn’t admit it, but deep down they were terrified for what they would do after they left the comforts and indulgences of home. Perhaps you have a teenager fitting this description living in your home now? I’ve had the privilege of getting to know over 3,000 such teenagers in our Heartlight counseling program over the past 20 years. These are kids whose parents loved them 42

greatly and gave them every convenience and materialistic advantage in life, yet they developed so many emotional problems that they had to be taken out of their homes. So, I’ve seen this phenomenon thousands of times; and we continue to receive dozens of pleas for help from parents of out of control teenagers every day. The crux of the matter is that it is hard to be a good parent when our focus is on having peace, love and friendship with our children. So, the big question is this: How do parents establish their position of authority, while also maintaining their relationship with their teen? Tell your teenager…“I desire to stand beside you and walk with you in life… but make no mistake; I will stand in front of you when I need to.”

Parenting the Right Way – Balanced

A simple answer is to say things like “No” and “Maybe” more often; and we need to apply boundaries and consequences when our kids cross over the line. Balanced parenting is applying strength when needed; and tenderness at the same time. It is not just one or the other, it is both. The essence of balance in parenting is to stand beside our children and walk with them through life, while also determining to stand in front of them when we need to stop them from their foolish ways. Our goal should be to help our kids get to where they want to be, and keep them from going to a place they really don’t want to end up. But since they are too immature to know any better, we need to remain in control, no matter how upset it makes them temporarily. Then, as they mature in their thinking, the reins can be gradually released. Believe me, your kids will express their appreciation when they are older for holding them in line as teenagers. 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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Don’t Be House Poor! Q. I read where you recommend having your house payment or rent at an amount that’s 25 percent or less of your monthly take-home pay. Does this figure include taxes and insurance too? A. Yes, it does. I’m trying to keep you from being “house poor.” Did you know you can qualify for a house payment, with taxes and insurance, that’s close to half of your take-home pay? That’s ridiculous! When you don’t have room in your budget to do anything else that matters because your house payment is so large, that’s what we call house poor. When your income minus your basic living expenses equals almost nothing, it means your basic living expenses are way too high. Being in this kind of situation keeps

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

you from saving for really important stuff like investing, retirement, and college for your kids. I’m trying to position you where you can get the house and everything paid off so you can become wealthy. When we talk about driving a crappy car, not going out to eat, or not going on vacation — those are temporary things. It’s all about living like no one else, so that later you can live and give like no one else!

How late is too late? Q. How late is too late to get life insurance? A. It’s pretty easy to get term life insurance – the only kind of life insurance I recommend – up until around age 70. Depending on your overall health situation, there are a few affordable policies available past that point. But once you get into your seventies and beyond it can be difficult to find reasonably priced coverage. I recommend that most people have 10 to 12 times their

annual income wrapped up in a good, level term life insurance policy.

Family and Business Q. My husband and I own a small business. One of our relatives asked for a job recently, and we have reservations about hiring him because there are several dysfunctional relationships within our extended family. Are we being mean? A. Having a small business doesn’t give relatives a free pass to employment. As entrepreneurs, you have the right and responsibility to do what’s best for your company. Ask yourself a few questions: Would you hire this person if they weren’t part of the family? Would you hire this person because they would make a good team member? If the answers are no, then you don’t hire them — period. Be kind about the situation, because there may be some bruised feelings. But the bottom line is you have to do what’s best for your business, your immediate family, and your team.

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The year my first child was born was a blur. I spent a lot of it struggling to

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adjust to the shock of new parenthood, and doing backflips to soothe my colicky baby. I barely noticed my own birthday, and we didn’t do much for Mother’s Day. I just didn’t have the energy to plan anything. Then, Father’s Day popped up. I wanted to make it special for my husband, but was surprised that I felt some resistance. It was not just the exhaustion; it bugged me that I was supposed to come up with a thoughtful appreciation for his fatherhood, while he got to sleep through all the nighttime feedings and keep up with

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of appreciation is cranky and pouting? It turns out, the answer was effortless. Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

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I gave my husband the gift of a play at the park with our daughter while I took a nap. How is that a gift to him? It worked on two fronts. First, it gave him a chance to bask in our baby’s undivided attention, something he rarely got while I was around. I think he felt like his daughter’s hero for the first time. Second, it changed the balance of our parenting partnership. We both realized he was capable of doing more with the baby, and it dissolved a leaden ball of resignation I didn’t realize I had been dragging. I saw new possibilities for taking breaks from my demanding role. It made me calmer, happier, and more hopeful. Planning a simple play for Father’s Day changed the outlook for our marriage. I saw that I could lean on my partner, and realized how much he already held me up. Relief and gratitude reawakened the fun chick inside me. Tell me that was not a gift to him. If you are running on empty, use Father’s Day as a chance to reconnect with the pleasure of your husband’s presence. Here are some easy, fun ways to celebrate his power to light up your life.

Effortless Family Fun Plan a low-overhead outing where you enjoy the extra set of hands while Dad enjoys his amazing family. • Grab the stroller for an after-dinner walk with a stop for dessert. • Get outside for twenty minutes with a Frisbee, a bottle of bubbles, or a bugcatcher. • Go somewhere you have a membership: the zoo, the science center, or the gym with babysitting. • Go to the mall. Grab a snack and daydream about how you would splurge if you won the lottery. • Establish a weekly Family Outing Day and let Dad choose the first destination.

Restorative Couple Time If you miss cuddling and connecting, you can bet your husband does too. Give in to that worn-out feeling and grab a quiet, stress-free moment together. • Lazy Massage Hour: one person controls the TV remote while they massage the other’s feet, shoulders, or head for 30 minutes. Then, switch roles. 47

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• Wine and Cheese on the Couch: After the kids go to bed, raid the pantry and lay out a grown up buffet with wine, cheese, olives and fruit, or beer, nachos, and guacamole. Use whatever feels like an indulgence. • 90 Minute Jail Break: If your kids are very little and you can’t be away too long, book a babysitter for a micro date. Have apps at your old dating hang-out, or spend a handful of coins at the arcade. • Bicker-Buster: Skip the stressed-out squabbles with a quiet walk. Bring a tasty drink to keep your mouth busy, and relax together in the outdoors with no pressure for conversation. • Write it On the Wall: Think of one thing about your husband that you appreciate, and scribble it on a note board or the bathroom mirror. Once a week, replace the message. With only a few minutes’ worth of thought and preparation, you can begin a routine that helps both of you appreciate your partnership.

Superdad Time Give your husband a chance to shine by planning an easy Daddy date. • Send the gang to the park or pool with prepacked necessities. • Set out a project, like a recipe, puzzle, or build-your-own-birdhouse kit. • Plan a backyard campout and let them set up the tent, cook hotdogs and marshmallows, and tell stories with spooky flashlight face. Or, let them build forts and play with flashlights all evening in the living room. • Send them shopping for snacks and have a Netflix movie night.

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If you are facing Father’s Day with a frown, consider an effortless celebration. Even in the most gruelling moments of parenthood, happiness is only a moment away if you give yourself permission to work with what you’ve got. Free your mind, surrender to a well-deserved break, and give your husband a chance to bask in your warm appreciation of his Superdad powers. ESP Laurie is the mom of two energizer bunnies, and the wife of a willing and wonderful Superdad.

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What Parents Need to Know Now About Mobile Social Apps It was probably inevitable. Now that 70% of teens are friends with their parents on Facebook, some are looking for less supervised places to socialize. A recent report from the Pew Internet and American Life Project found that even though most teens feel obligated to maintain a presence on Facebook, many expressed “waning enthusiasm”. Their reasons? The site has been “colonized” by adults, and there’s too much drama. “Teens are looking for a place they can call their own,” observes Danah Boyd, a fellow at the Berkman Center for the Internet and Society at Harvard University. “Rather than all flocking en masse to a different site, they’re fragmenting across apps.” Having teens on a variety of social media apps makes supervision more difficult. The classic advice—“keep the computer in a public space”—is hopelessly quaint, especially for teens who socialize on cellphones. One response is to use monitoring software that will alert parents anytime a child sends or receives a message that’s inappropriate. (Ten of these programs are reviewed by Mobile Independent Phone Reviews at mireview.com) Although surveillance may be a good short term fix for some kids, it can obscure the long-term goal—raising kids who use good judgment about social media. These kids resist the temptation to behave poorly just because they are online, and they know how to protect themselves when they encounter bullies, trolls and other online Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

predators. How do you equip your child with those essential life skills? Here are a few suggestions: Limit social networking of any kind for middle school students. Pre-adolescents are learning how to manage relationships and the process isn’t always pretty. Middle school kids are very aware of themselves and not very aware of others. Even the nicest kids say mean things-- and are devastated if someone says something mean to them. Being part of social media compounds the damage by making clumsy comments, ill-advised fashion choices and failed attempts at humor permanent and more widely available. Check the apps on your child’s phone. Review the apps on your child’s phone every time you pay the phone bill. Ask questions that will help your child think critically about social apps: How did you find out about the app? Does it do what you want it to do? What information does it collect about you? Does it broadcast your location? How much time do you spend with it? How could it be improved? What kind of community does it create? Be aware of the connection between social media and self esteem. For many young people, social media intensifies the pressure to be popular. They may obsess about how many followers they have, how many likes a particular post attracts or parties they didn’t attend. Parents can’t micromanage this part of a child’s life— teens learn by making social mistakes. At the same time, they can buffer the impact 50

of social media by giving kids plenty of positive attention, supporting healthy off-line friendships and pointing out the limited shelf life of popularity. Teach self-protection strategies. Talk to your child about how they can respond to mean or crude comments with tactics similar to those they would use offline. If possible, ignore bad behavior. The other person may just be having a really terrible day. Don’t respond in kind because that is likely to escalate the problem. Whenever possible, use humor to defuse conflict. Take advantage of privacy settings to block people who are always mean or negative. If a post is threatening, save a copy and share it with a trusted adult. Be sure your child knows you have his back. Many teens don’t talk to their parents about social media problems for fear that parents will overreact. Let your children know that you have confidence in them to handle most situations but you want to know about any online interactions that feel scary or overwhelming. If a child comes to you with an online problem, resist the urge to take charge. Instead, help your child think through how he or she wants to handle the situation. What is motivating the person who is causing the problem? Is this a relationship that matters to your child? Does he or she have offline contact with the person? Most important, listen! When you think about it, the social skills young people need to succeed with social media aren’t all that different from the ones that they will need in the offline world. As a parent, you can help your children stay focused on the big picture—what kind of people do they want to be and what kind of friends will support them in becoming those people? For kids who keep those goals clearly in mind, the particular app they are using at the moment won’t much matter. 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, 2017, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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athletes still do it. Laid-backs as well as adrenaline junkies canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get enough of it. New clubs that do it are sprouting up faster than golf carts in downtown Fairhope. It has become the fastest growing family activity along the Eastern Shoreâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; kayaking. And, it is one of the few sports the entire family can do together! Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

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The word “kayak”, which means hunter’s boat, originates from the Alaskan Inuit who wrapped whalebones with sealskins to create sleek, stealthy vessels for surprising unsuspecting seals and whales. Likewise, needing a fast and discreet boat to sneak upon their enemy, British commandos modified kayaks for raiding missions during WWII. Kayaks were also used by the British during the Falklands War and by the U.S. Marines who slipped into Somalia in 1992. Today, the British, U.S. Marines and Canadian Special Forces all continue to train with kayaks. Normally we don’t associate the head of the Catholic Church as an avid sports enthusiast, but before he became Pope, John Paul ll treasured kayaking as his favorite sport. During 1949, while residing as a parish priest at Saint Florian’s in Krakow, Poland, John Paul often carried his folded Klepper kayak to meditation retreats as well as on vacations. He soon developed such a passion for kayaking, that he competed in numerous downriver races. Today, kayaking is one of the most watched summer Olympic sports. Competitors race against the clock while piloting through ‘slalom gates’ posted throughout the river run. And just to make it fun, the kayakers must negotiate category 4 and 5 rapids that test their navigational skills in unforgiving whitewater. If you’re brave (or crazy) enough, you can experience the 1996 Olympic whitewater run first hand in the Ocoee River in Tennessee. We, along the Eastern Shore and Baldwin County are blessed with limitless water activities, but next to swimming, kayaking, especially among families, has become the fastest growing in our area. Why? First, our region possesses one of the most diverse and bounteous ecosystems nature has to offer. Whether paddling the remote river delta north of the causeway—or slowly drifting along the countless streams that flow into Fish River—or challenging outsized waves in the Gulf, kayakers never tire of creating fresh memories and making unique discoveries.

Why It’s So Popular

Where else can young children and their parents share the excitement of watching osprey and bald eagles plunge into the water and carry off a large fish? Other wildlife including pelicans, blue herons, egrets, cormorants, and even the occasional whooping crane circle and dive for food. And, for the more adventurous, a brief paddle into the lower delta during the summer months is not complete without spotting bull alligators sunning on the marshy banks. Water hyacinths, blue and purple irises, lilies, red maples, and sawgrass are just a small sample of the diverse flora in our area. 53

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Second, kayaking is very safe. Many first-timers are reluctant to try kayaking, believing a kayak will easily tip over. Not true. After just a few minutes nestled down inside a kayak, they realize that kayaks are stable and easy to paddle. Generally, it takes no more than five or ten minutes for the beginner to feel comfortable and ready to venture out. And yes, young children can safely kayak with their parents as long as they have a good-fitting, Coast Guard approve PFD. Children younger than eight usually do best in the bow of a two-seater (tandem) kayak; but don’t expect a lot of thrust here. Older children may want their own kayak, but depending on the child’s abilities, physical strength, and maturity, it may be best to travel together at first. Allow older children to help plan the trip. Show them a map using Google Earth. Also, begin with a trip goal, taking into consideration seat choice and distance. Finally, let the children paddle, but be prepared to get splashed. Money is another reason kayaking continues to increase in popularity. Brief respites into the local outdoors give families the opportunity to explore our amazingly beautiful area, especially when the seasons change.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

Many outfitters in our area rent kayaks by the hour at an affordable cost; however, kayaks can be found that cost as little as $300 dollars to own. Finally, kayaking is a lowimpact, user-friendly activity. It provides great exercise, is always exhilarating, but most importantly, it doesn’t hurt. (Why go to a gym and do laps on a rowing machine when you can experience the real thing?) You don’t have to be an athlete, just someone who wants to enjoy the water. One person can carry a kayak while a canoe requires two people. Almost any car can be fitted for a kayak, even a Volkswagen. Essentially, then, kayaking is a common sense sport.

The Best Places to Kayak in Baldwin County

Where are the best places to kayak in our area? Anywhere a bridge crosses a creek in Baldwin County suggests an adventure. Several sites, though, are truly exceptional: The Five Rivers of Mobile Delta, Fish River, Weeks Bay Preserve, Polecat Creek, Graham Preserve, and for salt-water enthusiasts, the Gulf. Capt. Michael Dorie, president of Delta Safaris (www.WildNativeTours.com), recommends starting your kayaking adventures at Five Rivers State Park on the Causeway. Capt. Michael says, “Here at Five Rivers, 250,000 acres of scenic waterways, woodlands, and marshes await your exploration.” He operates the rental shop Delta Safaris in the state-owned Five Rivers complex, and provides kayak and canoe rentals, guided

tours, instructions, advice, and a pier for launching. One of the best family outings according to Capt. Michael includes an upper delta kayak visit to the Bottle Creek Indian Mounds or the largest cypress tree in Alabama. Or, you can simply embark from the pier at Five Rivers, paddle up Game Warden’s ditch to Justin’s Bay, and then on to Alligator Alley. Be sure to take your camera, drinks, bug spray and courage. Finally, one of the best-kept secrets in Baldwin County is Graham Creek Nature Preserve just south of Foley off Highway 20. It offers over five miles of hiking trails and a beautiful access to Graham Creek. If you and the family have the time, you can paddle this creek all the way to Wolf Bay. Or, you might travel up Highway 225 to Byrnes Lake (which is not a lake at all but a slough that flows into the Tensaw River.) Moss covered oaks and cypress line its banks. The woods are lovely, dark, and deep. Alligator eyes peering just above the water are everywhere. It looks so prehistoric some locals joke that dinosaurs may still live back in the woods. All right! It’s time to gather the family and literally check out your back yard—rent a kayak or two and get exploring. Your children will brag to their friends about their high adventures and you may be inclined as well around the water cooler. Kayaking is safe, fun, educational and a great way to enjoy quality family time together. Just remember, don’t feed the alligators. ESP Dr. Barry Nowlin, a retired university professor from the University of South Alabama, makes his home with his bride of 42 years on Polecat Creek, a tributary of Fish River. His love for the outdoors arose from his adventures as an Eagle Scout and hikes along wilderness trails through Adirondacks. After 40+ years of teaching English, he continues to love to read, build steampunk lamps, kayak, but most of all, play with his granddaughter, Sara. Photos provided by Five Rivers Delta.

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Amusement Parks and Outdoor Fun Alligator Alley ad on page 65

19950 Highway 71 Summerdale, 36580 Start your guided adventure with a walk to the elevated viewing platform, where you can see over 450 alligators from hatchlings to 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. We also display other amphibians, reptiles, and rare species in our gift shop. Open 7 Days a Week from 10am - 5pm. Feedings at 11am; 1pm and 4pm. Children ages 3 and under – Free; Children 4-12years - $10(+tax); Adults $12(+tax); Seniors ages 65 or older - $10(+tax). Alligator food (chow) is $4(+tax). Ask for our pricing for field trips, groups and birthday parties.

truly unique entertainment experience unlike anything else. Main Street is transformed into a magical stage where the palm trees are energized with life and become the stars of the show. Check out the brand new Spectra show, An Epic Pirate Adventure. Free shows take place on Main Street every night at 8:30, 9 and 9:30pm. SPARKS AFTER DARK: Every Thursday evening, following the first Spectra performance, fireworks will spark up the skies over The Wharf. This high velocity show is a truly immersive experience; so make sure to find a spot on Main Street for the perfect vantage point. No fee! (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Waterville USA ad on page 67

906 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 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! (251) 948-2106 wville2@gulftel.com www.watervilleusa.com

(866) 994-2867 or (251) 946-2483 info@gatoralleyfarm.com www. gatoralleyfarm.com

Ferris Wheel & Mini Golf at The Wharf ad on page 51

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Monday – Friday 4:00pm – 10:00pm, Saturday - Sunday 12:00pm – 10:00pm, The Wharf is home to one of the largest ferris wheels in the Southeast standing over 112 feet tall. The ferris wheel is $5.00 per ride (3 years and under are Free). Play a few rounds at our all new 18-hole Mini Golf Course. Be prepared “fore” a swinging good time! Mini golf is $7 per person (4 years and under are Free). (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Kid’s Night at The Wharf ad on page 51

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Wednesdays 5:30pm - 8:30pm, As part of our 100 Days of Summer celebration, each Wednesday night from 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm will be catered to the kids. Face painting, prizes, games, music, a hula-hoop performer, bouncy house and water slide will line Palm Plaza for all the occasions. Come dressed in character for our special themed nights and be ready to play! Admission is FREE with various activities ranging in price from $5 - $10. Check out our online calendar for weekly updates. (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Spectra Light Show and Sparks After Dark ad on page 51

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 SPECTRA: The Wharf’s Sound and Light Spectacular incorporates sophisticated choreographed lighting effects with popular, surround sound music delivering a Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

Bow-Tag

MobileBow-Tag is a safe and friendly combat archery sport that can be played indoors or outdoors. Players wear masks and use recurve bows to shoot ultra-safe foam-tipped arrows at the opposing team members on the field. Think paintball without the pain, bruises or welts. The equipment is completely mobile so you can come to us or we can bring it to you. Players do not need any prior archery skills; it’s simple, safe and fun for all ages! Enjoy with friends, family or colleagues at work. We cater to the following events; private parties for both children and adults, church groups, scout groups, fairs, festivals, functions and corporate team-building events. We have a minimum age limit of 10 years old. $25.00 per person for 2 hour sessions, 8 player minimum, $15.00 per extra hour. Birthday Parties: $250.00; Children 10 and older will have a blast! Up to 10 players, includes 2 pizzas, soda and water. $20.00 per extra player, above 10 players. Bow-Tag can bring the party to you, or you can come to us! BowTag is safe and easy to play. (251) 895-5714 cole@bow-tag.com www.bow-tag.com

Brantley Farms Petting Zoo

26214 Pollard Road Daphne, 36526 Saturdays Only 9:00 am - 2:00 pm., Petting Zoo, pony rides, train rides and birthday parties. Bring your family and learn about life on a farm! Activities include hayrides, 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, games, crafts and more. Call for details or to schedule a tour or party. Open Saturdays from 9:00 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. Group rates also available. Birthday Parties include: tour of the animals in the barn, tour of animals in the back, pony rides and a hayride. $225.00 and unlimited people. Please call to book a party. Visit us on Facebook for photos and event updates. (251) 626-5416 https://www.facebook.com/BrantleyFarms-Petting-Zoo-111507652242138/?ref=page_internal

Fairhope “Glow in the Park” Summer Movie Series Adventure Island

24559 Perdido Beach Boulevard Orange Beach, 36561 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 with fire and sound. For more information and rates visit us online. Open year round. Please call for specific daily hours and rates. (251) 974-1500 info@adventure-island.com www.adventure-island.com

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

1204 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 Monday – Sunday 9:00am to 4:00pm, 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 (sloths, lemurs, kangaroos and tamanduas), and daily animal shows in the summer. Also offering “Zoo Camp”. Hours are Monday – Sunday 9:00am to 4:00pm. Admission: 11 and up $11 (plus tax), Seniors (55+) $9 (plus tax), children 3-10 $8 (plus tax), Ages 2 and under are free. (251) 968-5732 info@algulfcoastzoo.org www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org

Church Street Fairhope, 36532 June 1, July 6, August 3 - 8:00 PM, The City of Fairhope offers “Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series,” with three free family movies at Fairhopers Community Park on Thursdays, June 1, July 6, and August 3, 2017. 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. 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 or email us. (251) 929-1466 paige.crawford@cofairhope.com www.cofairhope.com

Fairhope Farmers Market

Bancroft Street Fairhope, 36532 Thursdays Only May 4 – November 2 - 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm, The City of Fairhope will host a Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings starting May 4 and ending November 2, 2017. The market will be set up behind the Fairhope Public Library in the new parking lot in downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street. “This year we will be combining the spring and fall markets and running twenty-seven weeks straight,” said Paige Crawford, Special Events Coordinator. The market will feature local farmers, bakers, fresh Baldwin County produce, fresh cut flowers, local honey, plants, baked goods and more. The

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Fairhope Public Library will have children activities at 4 p.m. For more information about the Fairhope Outdoor Farmer’s Market please call or visit our city website. (251) 929-1466 paige.crawford@cofairhope.com www.cofairhope.com

Forty South Farm & Zoo

27257 Glass Road Robertsdale, 36567 Saturdays and Sundays 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. , Situated on 46 acres of land it would quickly be called home to a wide variety of species! At the core of this is a local family with a strong passion for animals, driven by the idea of creating a place for families to enjoy and a place for the younger generations to learn about wildlife. Adults - $7.00 (Plus Tax) Children (2-12) - $5.00 (Plus Tax) Under 2 years are FREE! Come and visit us today! March – December Saturdays and Sundays: 10am-4pm. Visit us on Facebook for events and updates.

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(251) 964-4242 info@fortysouthfarms.com www.fortysouthfarms.com

Gulf Adventure Center

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4700 Main Street Orange Beach, 36561 Open 7 days a week, reservations 24 hours a day., Opening mid-June 2017!! The most unique zipline course in the US is located at The Wharf in Orange Beach. It features 9 zips through The Wharf entertainment district, the intracoastal waterway with beautiful views of our Back Bay Eco system and a blackgum tree wetland with tree based observation platforms and rope bridges. Participants must be a minimum of 65 pounds and a maximum of 260 pounds and must be at least eight years of age. Open 7 days a week. Reservations can be made 24 hours a day. (251) 948-9494 info@gulfadventurecenter.com www.gulfadventurecenter.com

Kids Days in Bienville Square – Thursdays

150 Dauphin Street Mobile , 36607 June 8, 15, 22, 29 - 10:00 am - 1:00 pm, Kid’s days in Bienville starts on Thursday, June 8. Bring the kids out for some summertime fun in Bienville Square each Thursday and enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts and visits from the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, the Mobile Police and Fire Departments and much more! Free. Thursdays - June 8, 15, 22 and 29 from 10am-1pm. (251) 208-1550

www.ncsmobile.org

KnockerBall Bay Area

Daphne, 36526 7:00 am - 7:00 pm 7 days a week, 7am – 10pm 7 days a week. Knockerball pricing package: $150 includes 8 knockerballs, a Game master, DJ, Cooling Station and more! Setup Fee - $50; $25 for travel for up to a 45-mile radius and $45 for travel up to a 75 mile radius. Whether it’s a party, special event, or community involvement, Knockerball will show you a great time! (251) 295-4320 knockerballba@gmail.com www.knockerballba.com

Magnolia Farms Paintball

15275 County Road 49 Summerdale, 36580 Saturday 10am – 5pm and Sunday 11am-5pm., Please call or check our website for updates and pricing. (251) 605-7216 magnoliafarmspaintball@gmail.com www.magnoliafarmspaintball.com

Mobile International Speedway

7800 Park Boulevard Irvington, 36544 Alabama’s fastest ½ mile track featuring oval track action, the Southern Super Series, Winged Spring

Cars, Demolition Derby and more. Home of the ARCS Mobile 200. Visit our website for race schedules and events. (251) 957-2063

www.mobilespeedway.net

Music and Movie in the Park

101 East Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535 June 2, June 9 - 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy a free movie, music and entertainment under the stars. Concessions will be available for purchase.June 2 6-9pm Music: Groovinators; Movie: MOANA; June 9 6pm-9pm Music: Christina Christian; Movie: SING. (251) 943-1200

www.visitfoley.com

OWA

10113 Foley Beach Express Foley, 36535 OWA is a Brand New 520-acre resort destination featuring a Southern Warehouse & Downtown atmosphere offering retail, dining, entertainment, a 14-acre lake in the heart of OWA as well as an exciting 14-acre amusement park! A 150-room Marriott TownePlace Suites will also open providing 150 room accommodations. The Park at OWA, the properties amusement park, will provide hours of unexpected discovery with more than 20 rides awaiting your next adventure. Enjoy your visit with friends & family for a day full of thrilling rollercoasters, dining, cotton candy & fresh popcorn made right before your eyes, entertainment, games and more! If you have a need for speed, jump on the park’s spinning G Force ride. For something a little more traditional, take a ride on the Teacups. Be sure to take advantage of the endless possibilities at OWA. Opening July 2017. (251) 923-2111 info@VisitOwa.com visitowa.com

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Pirates Island Golf

3201 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 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, landscaping, and enchanting pirate lore. (251) 968-4653 pigulfshores@me.com www.piratesislandgolf.com

Spanish Fort Town Center Park/ Splash Pad

30000 Town Center Avenue Spanish Fort, 36527 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. (214) 561-8884 or (214) 561-8814 www.spanishforttowncenter.com

Styx River Tube and Canoe Rental

25625 Water Rapids Road Robertsdale, 36567 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 th rough 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. (251) 960-1161

www.floatstyx.com

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

The Factory of Gulf Shores

18948 Oak Road West Gulf Shores, 36542 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. (251) 202-0900

www.thefactorygulfshores.com

The Track

3200 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 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. (251) 968-8111 trackinfo@gulfshorestrack.com www.gulfshorestrack.com

Tiki’s Bike Rental and Mini Golf

1204 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 7 days a week 9am – 8pm, Colorful animal statues decorate our miniature golf course just steps from the zoo. Visit us on Facebook for updates and specific information. (251) 240-0506 tikisbikeshack@yahoo.com www.tikisbikeshack.com

Wales West

13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, 36576 Come to Wales West any day of the week and enjoy our Zume Flume Water Slide, spring-fed lake with

waterfall, sandy beach and fishing. New large shady deck just completed overlooking the lake. Indoor pool, playground, and train rides are included. Train rides are at 1 pm and 4 pm. Prices: Day Pass, $15 plus tax, 2 and under free. Train ride, only, $12 per person, 2 and under free (includes Big and Little Train) $8 per person, big train only. (888) 569-5337 or (251) 232-2322 enquiries@waleswest. com or allkids1248@gmail.com www.waleswest.com

Weeks Bay Plantation Blueberry Farm

12562 Mary Ann Beach Road Fairhope, 36532 Weeks Bay Plantation offers tasty, organic blueberries, strawberries, heirloom tomatoes, herbs and more! Throughout the year we host live music events, seasonal celebrations, blueberry bake-offs, gourmet food vendors, farm-to-table events and more for the whole family to enjoy! Teach your kids the importance of fresh foods. Weeks Bay also offers locations for Weddings, Corporate/Non-Profit gatherings, and Field Trips. Want to spend a night, a weekend or even longer with us out on the farm? Check out our three Air BnB properties located right on our plantation grounds! Visit our website and Facebook often for the latest news on upcoming events. (251) 279-8745 info@weeksbayplantation.com www.weeksbayplantation.com

X-Treme Paintball

900-A Schillinger Road South Mobile, 36695 Saturday-10:00am-6:30pm, Sunday-12:00pm-6:30pm., Field hours on Saturday and Sunday are subject to participation. We will stay open later or close earlier depending on the players. (251) 639-0399

www.xpb.us

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Arts & Crafts Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes ad on page 40

335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:00am, 1:00pm , Create some summer fun and join our activity classes! Parents and caregivers are encouraged to stay and watch the creativity unfold! Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11am and 1pm and begin May 30, 2017. Classes usually last 30 minutes to an hour. Shrinky Dinks, stepping stones, painting bird feeders, stained glass, paint a canvas, are only a few of the many craft classes offered. Please stop by, call to register or sign up on our website. Classes fill quickly and sign up fees must be paid at the time of registration. For a detailed schedule, please call or visit our website. (251) 928-1720 info@fantasyislandtoys.com www.fantasyislandtoys.com

P’zazz Art ad on page 62

456 A North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 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 or visit us on Facebook for a schedule of workshops and classes. (251) 802-1009 pzazzfairhope@gmail.com www.pzazzart.com

Coastal Arts Center

26389 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Coastal Arts Center offers classes, workshops, and camps to artists of all ages and all skill levels. Call or email or visit our website for a detailed list of activities offered. Sign up for our newsletter! (251) 981-2787 artcenter@cityoforangebeach.com www.coastalartscenter.com

Eastern Shore Art Center

401 Oak Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Tuesday - Friday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., Open to the public Tuesday - Friday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Summer camps begin the week of June 12, 2017. All camps are one week long, Monday-Friday from 10am-12pm unless otherwise stated. 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 our website, sign up for our newsletter and join us on Facebook. (251) 928-2228 hannah@esartcenter.org www.esartcenter.org

Fairhope Sewing School

Fairhope, 36532 We offer classes for children and adults from basic sewing skills to craft, home decorating, learn to do simple alterations, adult and children’s apparel.

Please call or email for information on private lessons and classes. (251)442-4472 fairhopesewingschool@gmail.com www.fairhopesewingschool.com

Home Depot

7100 Highway 90 Daphne, 36526 Home Depot offers free workshops for children AND adults. For project details, dates and times visit www. workshops.homedepot.com and use the tabs to view Do-It-Yourself, Do-It-Herself and Kids Workshops. (251) 625-0890

www.homedepot.com

Michael’s

10200 Eastern Shore Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Lots of fun in-store events. Let your kids explore their creativity while you shop! Only $2 per child reserves 30 minutes for your creative kid. See a store associate to join the fun! Visit www.michaels.com/ Kids-Store-Events/store-events-kids,default,pg.html for specific classes and times. (251) 621-2686

www.michaels.com

Paint ‘N Parrot

9 North Church Street Fairhope, 36532 Paint ’n Parrot is a pottery painting studio where you can kick back, relax and get your creativity on! Bring the family to make a one-of-a-kind keepsake, take part in one of our pottery wheel classes, weekly Sip-n-doodle canvas classes or call the babysitter and have Girl’s Night Out or Date Night! Call or email for class hours. (251) 928-4161 robm1490@gmail.com www.paintnparrot.com

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Bowling, Skating, Movies, Arcades and Indoor Fun Fairhope United Methodist Church

Arena-The Next Level Laser Tag/ Bazookaball

4720 Main Street Orange Beach, 36561 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. (251) 224-5297(LAZR) arenanextlevel@aol.com www.arenaorangebeach.com

ad on page 8

155 South Section Street Fairhope, 36532 FUMC Christian Life Center offers a variety of sports activities Monday-Saturday including youth and adult sports, camps, basketball, pickle ball, volleyball, outdoor excursions, family running, Tai Chi Stretching, family fun nights, and much. Open to the Public! Please call the church office for specific activities and times. (251) 928-1148

Gulf Coast Exploreum

www.exploreum.com

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

www.breakoutmobile.com

Breakout Orange Beach

4776 Main Street Orange Beach, 36561 Monday Saturday 10am – 11pm and Sunday 12pm – 11pm, Hours are Monday Saturday 10am – 11pm and Sunday 12pm – 11pm. You have one goal: escape the room in under 1 hour. 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!

Eastern Shore Lanes

ad on page 85

(251) 208-6873

(251) 460-1284

(251) 929-8330 info@breakoutgames.com www.breakoutgames.com/orange-beach

www.fairhopeumc.com

65 Government Street Mobile, 36604 Tuesday-Thursday 9:00am-4:00pm, Friday and Saturday 9:00am-5:00pm and Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm, 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! The Exploreum also offers amazing Summer Science Camps! Week-long camps are hands-on, ageappropriate with make-and-take activities.

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!

Breakout Mobile

3090 Dauphin Square Connector MobileYou have one goal: escape the room in under 1 hour. You’ll work

10460 Eastern Shore Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Monday – Thursday 9am – 12am, Friday – Saturday 9am – 1am, Sunday 11am – 12am, Children love to bowl! Register your kid(s) for our Youth Bowling League today! We are dedicated to providing safe and fun place for children of all ages to come and enjoy bowling. We have many great youth programs to choose from; Bowling, Laser Tag, Escape Room Game, Arcade games, birthday parties and Dusty’s Sports Bar & Grill. Visit our website for weekly activity events. (251) 625-3400

www.eslanes.com

www.easternshoreparents.com

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Fat Daddy’s Arcade

24565 Perdido Beach Boulevard Orange Beach, 36561 Featuring tons of the most popular games on the 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. (251) 980-1050

www.fatdaddysarcadeorangebeach.com

Get Air

www.getairmobile.com

Hot Wheels Skate Center

616 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, 36526 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! (251) 626-5120 or (251) 753-4879 terry@hotwheelsdaphne.com www.hotwheelsdaphne.com

Kangarooz

Golf

Rotolo’s

Craft Farms Golf Resort – Cypress Bend & Cotton Creek

(251) 382-1973

31000 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, 36527 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

www.mykangarooz.com

100 Eastern Shore Shopping Center Fairhope, 36532 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! (251) 990-4005

842 Schillinger Road South Mobile, 36695 Wall to wall trampolines, dodge ball, foam pits, basketballdunk, toddler jump area and birthday parties. (251) 241-3101

party! Please call or check our website for open play times and pricing.

www.Facebook.com/RotolosOfFairhope

The Fieldhouse

26037 Capital Drive Daphne, 36526 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. (251) 626-0190

www.trainatthefieldhouse.com

The Gulf Bowl

2881 South Juniper Street Foley, 36535 Monday – Thursday 9am – 12am, Friday – Saturday 9am – 1am, Sunday 11am – 12am., The Gulf Bowl offers open play bowling, birthday parties, arcade games, Captains Choice restaurant, pool room, a ropes course, laser tag & lots of Fun! Please call or check our website for specific summer programs. (251) 943-4575 gulfbowl@gulftel.com www.gulfbowl.com

3840 Cotton Creek Circle Gulf Shores, 36542 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. Visit www.schuesslergolf.com for information on the Schuessler Golf Academy. (251) 968-7500

www.craftfarms.com

Glenlakes Golf Club

9530 Clubhouse Drive Foley, 36535 Featuring 27 holes of unforgettable golf, our 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. Register now for one (or all) of our summer junior golf clinics. Session 1 is June 13-16, Tuesday through Friday, starting at 8:30 a.m. each day. Cost is $60 per junior. Session 2 will be held July 18-21. Both sessions are limited to 20 golfers per session and are open to boys and girls ages 7 to 14 years. Email David Musial, certified AHSAA golf coach to register for individual private lessons. Visit our website for more fun activities.

(251) 955-1220 musialgolf@yahoo.com or glenlakesgolf@ gmail.com www.glenlakesgolf.com

Gulf Links at Foley Golf Club

3901 South McKenzie Street Foley, 36535 7 days a week 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Foley Golf Course is your number one option for a round of golf

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in Foley, Alabama. Here at our facility we are driven by an intense passion for the classic game of golf, and we work hard to make it evident. We love all visitors, from our regular golfers to the greenest first-time visitor. We have a pro shop, clubhouse and many other amenities as well as high quality course design. Gulf Links is a course that will have you reaching for every club in your bag. There are multiple tee boxes for players of all skill and age levels. Don’t forget to stop in the clubhouse and say hello. We can’t wait to meet you! (251) 970-1444 foleygolfclub@centurylink.net www.foleygolfcourse.com

Gulf Shores Golf Club

520 Clubhouse Drive Gulf Shores, 36542 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. Please call the golf shop for more information and tee times. (251) 968-7366 or (251) 968-2596 proshop@gulfshoresgolfclub.com www.gulfshoresgolfclub.com

Gulf State Park Golf Course

20115 State Highway 135 Gulf Shores, 36542 7 days a week, 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. , 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. Combining the captivating natural scenery of Gulf State Park and the design of Earl Stone, our 18-hole championship golf course offers an exceptional experience and the natural beauty found only on the Alabama Gulf Coast. (251) 948-7275

www.alapark.com/gulf-state-park

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

Kiva Dunes

815 Plantation Drive Gulf Shores, 36542 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. You can book your tee time online, or call to speak to one of our Kiva Dunes Golf Shop staff members. Rea Schuessler is the lead instructor at the Schuessler Golf Academy and is one of the most highly sought-after golf instructors along the Gulf Coast. Call or visit our website for Golf instruction information. (251) 540-7000

www.kivadunes.com

Lake Forest Golf Course

1 Golf Terrace Daphne, 36526 Lake Forest Golf Club is a 18-hole championship golf course with beautiful rolling Bermuda fairways and spacious Champion greens. We offer a huge driving range with a chipping and putting green. Lake Forest 19th hole has some of the best food in the area. We have lessons available to kids and adults of all ages, if you have any questions please call the Pro Shop. (251) 626-9324 lfproshop@lakeforestpoa.org www.lakeforestpoa.org

Lost Key Golf Club

625 Lost Key Drive Pensacola, 32507 Lost Key is ideally located between historic downtown Pensacola and the pristine sugar sand beaches of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. This par 71 signature designed course features Sea Dwarf Paspalum grass from the tee to the green for optimum 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. Our state of the art golf clubhouse features a full service golf shop, men’s and ladies locker rooms with lounge areas, and a restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating and panoramic

views of the golf course. We provide all the amenities and service of the finest private clubs, yet welcome non-members and resort guests. Lost Key welcomes golf outings of all sizes and our clubhouse is available for private social events. Call or visit our website to book a tee time. (850) 549-2161 or (888) 256-7853

www.lostkey.com

Orange Beach Golf Center

4700 Easy Street Orange Beach, 36561 Municipal course. Proof of residency required. Visit our website for greens fees, course hours and amenity listings. Driving Range open daily 7:00 am - 9:00 pm, Course/Pro Shop open daily 7:00 am - 5:00 pm. Youth Summer Golf Lessons during the summer are open to 1st – 12th grade students. We focus on golf etiquette with instruction in driving, putting, chipping, long iron and short iron. Lessons are scheduled early in the morning due to heat exposure. Practice clubs are available at the golf center. Please call for full details, dates and times. (251) 981-4653

www.obparksandrec.com/golfcenter.html

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19841 Quail Creek Drive Fairhope, 36532 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.

www.easternshoreparents.com

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Rock Creek Golf

140 Clubhouse Drive Fairhope, 36532 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.

Historical Sites

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: 9:00am-5:00pm. Cost - Children (5-12) - $4.00, Adults (Ages 13+) - $8.00.

USS Alabama Battleship ad on page 25

28341 Preserve Trail Elberta, 36530 7 days a week 7:00am – 5:00pm, 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.

2073 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36603 At Battleship Memorial Park you’ll walk the decks of the Mighty A, our WWII battleship. Explore the decks and see how sailors lived aboard this floating city. It’s periscopes up in the USS DRUM, the oldest submarine on public display. You’ll also see over 25 historic airplanes, vehicles, tanks, a Vietnam River Patrol Boat, and a super-secret spy plane . It’s all here waiting to be discovered! Hours: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm (April-September) 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (October-March) last ticket sold one hour prior to closing. Ages 12 and up $15, Ages 6 – 11 $6, Under age 5 and active military is free. Ages 55+ is $13. Ask about our Overnight Program for scouts, school and church groups.

Timber Creek Golf Course

Foley Railroad Museum

(251) 928-4223

www.rockcreekgolf.com

Soldiers Creek Golf Club

(251) 986-8633

www.soldierscreekgolfcourse.com

9650 Timber Creek Boulevard Daphne, 36526 Timber Creek Golf Course will offer Junior Golf Clinics in the spring, summer, and fall. Video Lesson: $75 for one lesson or $210 for a series of 3, Juniors (age 13 to 17): $50 for one lesson or $135 for a series of 3, Juniors (age 12 and under): $40 for one lesson or $105 for a series of 3, Playing Lessons: $60. Customizable group and corporate instructional sessions are also available. Call us today to be added to our junior golf email list for upcoming activities. To schedule a game improvement session or to register for a Junior Clinic, call the golf shop. (251) 621-9900 johnmichael@golftimbercreek.com www.golftimbercreek.com

(251) 433-2703

www.ussalabama.com

(251) 943-1818 foleymuseum@gulftel.com www.foleyrailroadmuseum.com

51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Fort Gaines was the battle site of the famous Battle

Historic Blakely State Park

34745 State Highway 225 Spanish Fort, 36527 7 days a week, 8:00 a.m. - Dusk, 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. Open 8:00am to dusk, seven days a week. Adults $4.00, Children 6-12: $3.00, Children under 6: Free.

(251) 626-5581 or (251) 626-0798 blakeleypark@aol.com www.blakeleypark.com

National Naval Aviation Museum

125 East Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535 Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 10:00am - 2:00 pm, 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 Gaines

(251) 861-6992 fortgaines@outlook.com www.dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines/

1750 Radford Boulevard Pensacola, 32508 7 day a week 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., The National Naval Aviation Museum has much to offer in its 350,000 square feet of exhibit space and outside on its 37-acre grounds. As the world’s largest Naval Aviation museum and one of the most-visited museums in the state of Florida, the National Naval Aviation Museum is home to more than 150 aircraft representing Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard aviation, and a number of attractions sure to captivate the whole family. Visit our website for all the attractions the museum has to offer. (800) 327-5002 namfoffice@navalaviationmuseum.org or robbie.musgrove@navy.mil www.navalaviationmuseum.org

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Orange Beach Indian and Sea Museum

25805 John Snook Drive Orange Beach, 36561 Tuesday and Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., 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. If you have a group of 5 or more please call (251) 981-6039 to make reservations. Admission is Free. (251) 981-8545

www.obparksandrec.com

Oyster Trail

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 to win Oyster Trail Prizes! (251) 438-5690 oystergardening@auburn.edu www.theoystertrail.com

University of South Alabama Archaeology Museum

6052 USA Drive South Mobile, 36608 Tuesday – Friday: 9:00am-4:00pm, The Archaeology

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

Museum showcases artifacts from the Gulf Coast and covers over 12,000 years of prehistory and history. Artifacts are contextualized using a series of life-size scenic representations depicting archaeologists at work and glimpses into the ways of life of ancient Woodland cultures, mound-building Mississippian peoples, early French settlers, and an African American family after the Civil War. Free Admission. (251) 460-6106 www.southalabama.edu/org/archaeology/museum

Fort of Colonial Mobile

150 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 In this immersive, interactive exhibit in the heart of Historic Fort Conde, visitors can learn about the people who colonized early Mobile. While visiting the Fort be sure to visit the Colonial Cafe, Trading Post, Colonial Photo Booth, Breakout Room, and shooting gallery. You will also have a chance to tour the interactive exhibits that highlight the history of the Fort. Don’t miss the Fife and Drum band, cannon firing, and live action characters representing real people who lived in Colonial Mobile. Admission – Adults - $8, Kids - $5. (251) 802-3092

colonialmobile.com

Horseback Riding Equine Educational Consultants

19822A Lawrence Road Fairhope, 36532 Equine Educational Consultants, located at Willow Creek Farm, provides equine therapy for children affected by autism spectrum disorders, language impairments and ADHD. Therapy is provided by Speech Language Pathologists with over 20 years experience

each. Lessons are scheduled Monday through Friday. Please call for more information. (251) 747-8219 Tonyalhalterman@gmail.com www.eec.name

Fox Run Equestrian Center

13370 County Road 3 Fairhope, 36532 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. (251) 928-7666 foxrun251@att.net www.facebook.com/FoxRunEquestrian

Lake Forest Stables

268 Equine Circle Daphne, 36526 Lake Forest Stables is a full service stable inside the Lake Forest Subdivision. Services offered include boarding, lessons, birthday parties, summer camps, trail rides. Lake Forest Stables is privately leased to Vaughan Girls Stables. Please call for dates and times. Visit us on Facebook! (770) 355-6514 daphne@lakeforeststables.org www.lakeforeststables.org

Oak Hollow

14210 Greeno Road Fairhope, 36532 With more than 300 acres of green pastures and oak-laden hollows, Oak Hollow Farm provides countless opportunities for fun experiences while enjoying the great outdoors. Our numerous activities are all designed to compliment our beautiful countryside and encourage guests to try something new or taking part in an activity they already know and love. Our attrac-

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tions include horseback riding, hayrides, archery, skeet shooting, dove and pheasant hunts, and even catchand-release fishing in our fully stocked pond. Visit our website for more information. To make a reservation for your chosen activity, call or email Oak Hollow Farm. (251) 928-4840 info@oakhollowfarm.net www.oakhollowfarm.net

Riverside Ranch

26061 Monsanto Road Loxley, 36551 We do it all at Riverside! Riding Lessons, Boarding, Leasing and Birthday Parties. (251) 263-3700 riversideranch1@gmail.com www.riversideranch1.com

Sea Horse Stables

14537 State Highway 59 Foley, 36535 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 offer Birthday Party packages, guided trail rides and private lessons. We only accept cash or checks. We are open various hours so please call ahead. (251) 971-7433

Whitfield Farm Horseback Riding

10309 Rebel Road Daphne, 36526 Monday - Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm, Whitfield Farm offers summer camps, riding lessons, training, and coaching at shows. Visit us on Facebook for event updates and information. (251) 709-4189

Wild Hawk Ranch, LLC

24080 JD Waters Lane Robertsdale, 36567 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. (850) 418-3684 wildhawkranch@gmail.com www.wildhawkranch.com

Libraries / Story Times Page and Palette and The Book Cellar

store! Visit our website for upcoming events or call for children’s activities offered. (251) 928-5295

www.pageandpalette.com

Bay Minette Library

205 West Second Street Bay Minette, 36507 Monday – Friday 9:00am – 6:00pm, Saturday 10:00am – 2:00pm, Join Children’s Librarian Victoria Barnett every Tuesday morning at 10:00 a.m. for story time! Our Summer Reading Program is held at the John F. Rhodes Civic Center on Tuesdays during the month of June at 1 p.m. Please call or visit our website for children’s activities. (251) 580-1648

www.cityofbayminette.org/Library

32 South Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Monday – Friday 8am -6pm, Saturday 9am – 6pm, Sunday 11am -5pm, Page and Palette is host to a range of author events from local, up-and-coming names to block-busting celebrities. In addition to new (and used) books, we carry greeting cards, journals, and a variety of merchandise. With all of this over a cup of locally roasted coffee in Latte Da or a visit to The Book Cellar, you may never want to leave the

What's 13ft. long and 800lbs.? Come meet Captain Crunch!

19950 Highway 71, Summerdale, AL 36580 | gatoralleyfarm.com 65

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Daphne Public Library

2607 US Highway 98 Daphne, 36526 Monday – Thursday 9am – 8pm, Friday 9am – 5pm, Saturday 9am – 2pm, The Daphne library has over 72,000 titles available. Special events and workshops are offered for all ages throughout the month of June to celebrate summer reading. The Daphne Library offers a Back-to-School Bookmark contest in the Fall and a Fashion Show and Tea is offered in the Spring. Please call or visit our website for all the activities offered. (251) 621-2818 tyoung@daphneal.com or lyoungblood@ daphneal.com www.daphnelibrary.org

Fairhope Public Library

501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 9:00 – 8:00, Wednesday 1:00pm – 6:00 pm, Friday 9:00 am-5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am – 3:00pm, Closed Sunday, Summer programing includes Movie Mondays at 2pm, Story time on Tuesdays at 10am for ages 2 and under and 11am for ages 3-5. Tween Time Tuesdays at 3:30; Tween Minecraft on Tuesdays from 4:15pm – 5:15pm- signup is on Eventbrite. FHPL Wednesday activities begin at 2pm and include magic, exotic animals and more! We also offer Thursday activities at 4pm during the Fairhope Farmer’s Market. Free Build Fridays with Legos, blocks and more from 10am – 2pm. Visit our website and sign up for our newsletter for upcoming events. (251) 928-7483 or (251) 990-0209 youthservices@fairhopelibrary.org www.fairhopelibrary.org

Foley Public Library

319 East Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535 Summer Reading at Foley Library provides activities that are free, fun, safe and available to everyone. June 8th: Hoop for Fitness is a fun filled session with a professional instructor providing movement, basic

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

coordination, and fun agility games; June 15th: The Animal Tales science program will meet and learn about Reptiles, Amphibians Invertebrates and maybe even Fish! This is a hands on educational activity; June 22nd: Gene Cordova will and his cast of characters will delight children as they set said on an exciting voyage of discovery through reading. Puppets, Ventriloquism, comedy, magic and more! June 29th: Charlie Williams the “Noise Guy” teaches humor as a life skill as a vocal impressionist. Charlie Brings the Noise! All Programs are held at the Civic Center at 10:00am. 2017 Summer Reading program supported by The Friends of the Library. (251) 943-7665

www.foleylibrary.org

Loxley Public Library

1001 Loxley Avenue Loxley, 36551 Tuesday 9:00am – 5:00pm, Wednesday – Friday 12:00pm – 5:00pm, Saturday 10:00am – 2:00pm, Closed Sunday and Monday, Visit us on Facebook for upcoming events. (251) 964-5695 loxleylibrary@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/LoxleyPublicLibrary

Magnolia Springs Public Library

12440 Magnolia Avenue Magnolia SpringsTuesday, Wednesday, Friday 12:00pm – 4:00pm, Thursday 12:00pm - 5:00pm, Saturday 10:00am - 12:00pm, Summer Reading Program begins June 13, 2017. It will involve crafts and reading bingo. More summer programs to be announced. Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday open 12pm – 4pm. Thursday 12pm-5pm. Saturday 10am-12pm. Closed Sunday and Monday. Visit our website or on Facebook for events, activities and updates. (251) 965-2305 magnoliaspringslibrary@gmail.com www.magnoliaspringslibrary.org

Marjorie Younce Snook Public Library

202 W Broadway Avenue Summerdale, 36580 Monday – Friday 9:00am – 6:00pm, Saturday 9:00am – 1:00pm, Summerdale Sunshine Story time is Thursday mornings from 11am -12pm. All children up to age 4 are invited to join in the fun. We use a wide range of high-quality picture books, songs, poetry, puppets, crafts and activities such as reading, singing and playing with the children. The children’s library offers a computer lab with 8 Mac computers and 2 AWE computers for children up to 18 years old. Please visit our website and click on Calendar for a list of programs. (251) 989-2011

www.summerdalelibrary.com

Orange Beach Public Library

26267 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9:00 am 6:00pm, Thursday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm, Story Time every Tuesday at 10am in the meeting room. Come in for stories, songs, rhymes, games, and crafts designed to introduce pre-reading skills to toddlers and preschoolers and their parents. LEGO Club for ages 6 and up, Mincecraft Guild Tuesdays at 4pm for ages 7 and up, and other activities offered. Visit our website for event updates. (251) 981-2923 askobpl@cityoforangebeach.com www.orangebeachlibrary.org

Robertsdale Public Library

18301 Pennsylvania Street Robertsdale, 36567 Monday and Wednesday 9:00am – 6:00pm, Tuesday and Thursday 9:00am – 8:00pm, Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am – 1:00pm, 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. (251) 947-8960

www.robertsdale.org

www.easternshoreparents.com

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Silverhill Oscar Johnson Memorial Library

21967 6th Street Silverhill, 36576 Monday – Friday 1:00pm – 4:00pm, Closed Saturday & Sunday, Silverhill citizens have been visiting our Town’s Public Library for over 100 years. To this day, relics of our town’s past are housed in the top story of this historic Baldwin County site. Constructed in 1898 by town founder, Oscar Johnson, the building began as a land office. Later, it served as a school. Today, it serves as our local library run by a team of dedicated volunteers. (251) 945-5201

www.silverhillalabama.com/library

Spanish Fort Public Library

7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Monday - Thursday 9:00am - 8:00pm, Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am - 1:00pm , The Spanish Fort Public Library (SFPL) Summer Reading program registration begins Monday May 22, 2017, with our first program on Tuesday June 6th at 10:30 a.m. Sign up now at the library or on our website. Summer Reading is open to ALL ages, including teens and adults. Weekly performances will take place every Tuesday morning in June at 10:30 a.m. The four main events coming to Spanish Fort Public Library include: Tuesday June 6th: Hoop for Fitness, Tuesday June 13th: Animal Tales: Reptiles, Scales & Tails, Tuesday June 20th: Freedom Ranch and Tuesday June 27th: Charlie: The Noise Guy. Wednesday June 21st join the SFPL for a Summer Solstice Ice Cream Social from 6 to 8 p.m. sponsored by Publix. Come have ice cream with us! Performances and events are free and open to all ages. Summer Reading categories will include

all age readers and grand prizes will be awarded for each category of winners. Every child who signs up for the SFPL Summer Reading program will get to attend a free Bay Bears game once a parent/guardian purchases a discounted ticket. (251) 410-READ (7323) www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

(251) 981-1180 or (251) 981-1063 www.backcountrytrail.com

Thomas B. Norton Public Library

221 West 19th Avenue Gulf Shores, 36542 June 9, 16, 23, 30 - Thomas B. Norton Library in Gulf Shores offers summer reading 2017. June 9 -Hoops for Fitness, June 16 – Animal Tales, June 23 – Freedom Ranch, June 30 – Charlie Williams, “The Noise Guy”, All programs will be held at the adult activity center from 10:30am – 11:30am. (251) 968-1176 thomasbnortonlibrary@gmail.com www.thomasbnortonlibrary.com

Nature Trails / Marine Education / Environmental Back Country Trail ad on page 79

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 for tour information please visit our website.

Orange Beach, 36561 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

Dauphin Island Sea Lab ad on page 82

101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., 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. The Discovery Hall Programs offer a variety of programs for your children during the summer, ranging from single-day programs to residential camps and academic courses. Our highly qualified educators will guide campers and students through all activities, and residential students are well supervised by our exceptional counselors. 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. Estuarium Admission: Adults $11, Children 5 years - 18 years (with a Student ID) $6, Seniors $9. Group rates available. Summer camp information and registration is available on our website. (251) 861-2141 (ext. 7515) sejohnson@disl.org www.disl.org

The Gulf Coast’s premier Water Park and Amusement Park

NOW OPEN

NEW FOR 2017 www.escapehousewaterville.com

906 Gulf Shores Parkway • Gulf Shores • AL 251-948-2106 67

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Five Rivers Delta Resource Center ad on page 53

30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 7 days a week, 8am - 5pm, Learn and explore “America’s Amazon” - our own Mobile-Tensaw Delta! Visit the Apalachee Exhibit Hall and Little Bateau Learning Center for live animals and hands-on exhibits. Watch a movie in the state-of-the-art Tensaw Theater about Alabama’s ecology and history, or maybe your favorite type of animal. Reserve your spot on a boat tour of the lower delta, rent a kayak to paddle Sardine Pass and Justin’s Bay, or stay overnight at one of our new kayak/ canoe campsites! Walk the nature trails, climb a tree, have a picnic, or enjoy some of the area’s best bird watching. Find that unique gift for a special someone in our Cypress Welcome Center and Gift Shop. Five Rivers offers programs for all ages throughout the year. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram! Open 7 days a week, FREE admission, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (251) 625-0814 Shonda.Borden@dcnr.alabama.govor info@5rds.com www.Alabama5Rivers.com

WildNative Delta Safaris Gulf Shores/Orange Beach ad on page 53

4159 County Road 6 Gulf Shores, 36542 Tours available 7 days a week. Escape the crowded tourist areas and experience the more secluded waterways of Gulf Shores, Alabama on our unique “backstage” tours. We’ll take you down waterways less traveled on our cozy 22 passenger pontoon boat or perhaps a kayak tour is more your style. Explore the

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

Bon Secour River, Bon Secour Bay, Oyster Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway watching for and learning about a variety of wildlife including Dolphins, Bald Eagles, Osprey, Herons, and Pelicans. We’ll visit commercial fisheries and teach you about modern day fishing methods as the fishermen unload their catch. You’ll discover the highs and lows of the fisheries and learn about the history, ecology, and characters of Coastal Alabama. Choose from Coastal Eco Tour (Boat), Dolphins at Sunset Tour (Kayak) or the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Tour (Kayak). Please call or visit our website for specific tour times and prices. (251) 272-4088 or (800) 508-ADVENTURE gulfshores@wildnative.com www.wildnativetours.com

WildNative Delta Safaris Mobile/Spanish Fort ad on page 53

30841 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 7days a week 8am - 5pm, Office open 7 days a week 8am-5pm. Tours available year round. Prepare to be amazed, inspired and relaxed with friends and family as you are introduced to America’s Next Eco Hot Spot! The Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Experience the Delta on our highly rated tours. You’ll explore the Delta watching for a variety of wildlife including American Alligators, Bald Eagle, Osprey, Heron, Cormorant, Pelicans, Nutria and

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more, learn about these unique animals of the swamp and how they live. All tours include commentary on the history, geology, ecology and characters of the Delta. All tours are narrated by experienced Nature Guides. Most popular tours include: Delta Eco Tour (Boat), Delta Wildlife Tour (Kayak), Secretly Awesome Harbor Tour (Boat), Gators after Dark Tour (Boat) and Champion Cypress Adventure (Kayak). Call or visit website for complete list of tours, times and prices. (251) 259-8531 or (877) 411-SAFARI info@wildnative.com www.wildnativetours.com

Action Outdoors – Dauphin Island

650 LeMoyne Drive Dauphin Island, 36528 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

www.easternshoreparents.com

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www.actionoutdoors.org

ADCNR Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries

For more information about hunting, fishing, programs, events, canoe trails, outdoor activities and regulations please call or visit our website. Wildlife And Freshwater Fisheries Division: (334) 242-3465; Marine Resources Division Offices (saltwater fishing): Dauphin Island: (251) 861-2882 or Gulf Shores: (251) 968-7576. (251) 626-5474 or (334) 242-3465 www.outdooralabama.com

Audubon Bird Sanctuary

211 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 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 as a National Recreational Trail. Of the 445 species officially documented in Alabama presently, 420 (95%) have been observed on the island. For detailed individual trail maps, visit our website. (251) 861-3607 parks@dauphinisland.org www.dauphinisland.org

Bellingrath Gardens Wonderful Wednesdays

12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36528

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. Kids Gulf Discovery Day on June 14, will feature the Environmental Studies Center’s Raptor Road Show on the Great Lawn and cruises along Fowl River with our friends from WildNative Delta Safaris! Wonderful Wednesdays run, from June 7 to July 26. Sessions are from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Admission fees are $13 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 5-12 and free to members and ages 4 and younger. Dates and information may change so please call or visit our website to verify events. (251) 973-2217 sericson@bellingrath.org www.bellingrath.org

Bicycle Trails

BicycleMobile.org is a an advocacy website devoted to every aspect of bicycling in Mobile, AL. We have lists of group rides, information about bike shops and a list of key issues for advocacy and infrastructure. For interest in finding a Specialty ride, joining a weekly ride, or Trail maps for Mobile and Baldwin County areas, please email or visit our website for more information. (251) 432-1638 info@bicyclemobile.org www.bicyclemobile.org

Birding Trails

The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail (ACBT) 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. Please exercise care while enjoying the birds along the coast, be mindful of their habitats, and respect other birders. Visit our website for a list of trails, convention centers and activities. (251) 626-5474

www.alabamacoastalbirdingtrail.com

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

12295 State Highway 180 Gulf Shores, 36542 Refuge hours: open all year during daylight hours. Visitors Center open Monday - Friday 9am - 2pm. , The Bon Secour NWR contains 7,000 acres of wildlife habitat for migratory birds, nesting sea turtles and many other wildlife species in our area. The refuge has been named as one of the 10 natural wonders of Alabama. Brochures and maps are available at trailhead kiosks and outside the refuge office. The refuge is open to visitors year-round, during daylight hours only. The Visitor Center is open from 9am - 2pm Monday – Friday and closed on Saturday, Sunday and federal holidays. The refuge is open year round during daylight hours. (251) 540-7720 bonsecour@fws.gov www.fws.gov/bonsecour

Dauphin Island Park & Beach

109 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Dauphin Island Park & Beach offers many activities to choose from such as the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, Boating, Camping, Fishing, Fort Gaines, Kayaking, Public beach access, Trails and so much more! The Park & Beach Board has around 265 acres of parkland and in that we have 10 park facilities. The park offers 265 acres of parkland with 10 facilities to encourage outdoor recreation, environmental education. Each park facility offers a variety of programming. (251) 861-3607 scaindipbb@outlook.com or parks@ dauphinisland.org www.dauphinisland.org

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Delta Explorer Boat Tour

34745 State Highway 225 Spanish Fort, 36527 Book a guided tour aboard the Delta Explorer of Historic Blakeley State Park for a Fun and Educational adventure! Take a journey through the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, one of Alabama’s Ten Natural Wonders. Visit the wilderness eco-system where you will find wetland habitats ranging from marsh to cypress-tupelo swamp and bottomland hardwoods. The “Delta Explorer” ecotour boat, has bench seating, a restroom facility and is handicapped accessible. Please visit our website for schedules and pricing.

(251) 626-5581 or (251) 626-0798 blakeleypark@aol.com www.blakeleypark.com/delta.asP

Environmental Studies Center

6101 Girby Road Mobile, 36693 The Environmental Studies Center is a natural sciences education facility designed to provide unique learning experiences not typically available in the local school. Featuring over 500 acres of rich woodlands, the Center affords teachers, students and the general public an opportunity to experience firsthand the natural environment and the interrelationships governing our living world. Natural resources include pine and bay forests, swamps, freshwater streams, carnivorous plant bogs, and a twenty-acre lake. Man-made 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. Summer Day camps for kids are

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

also registering now. A donation of $2 per visitor is appreciated. Call for hours and special events. (251) 221-5000 dvbishop@mcpss.com www.mcpsesc.com

Global Wildlife Center

26389 LA-40 Folsom, 70437 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! Open 7 days a week! (985) 624-WILD (9453) or (985) 796-3585 fieldtrips@ globalwildlife.com www.globalwilldlife.com

Gulf Quest

155 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Wednesday-Friday 9:00am-4:00pm, Saturday 9:00am5:00pm, 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 life-sized replica of a container ship. GulfQuest provides hands-on experiences that inspire visitors to understand and appreciate the maritime heritage of the Gulf of Mexico. Sit and enjoy the view, both inside the

museum and outside overlooking the beautiful Mobile River and the busy of Port of Mobile. GulfQuest is open to the public Wednesday – Friday from 9am – 4pm, Saturday from 10am – 5pm. Admission: Adults (18-64) $14.00, Youth (5-18) $11.00, Seniors (65+) $13.00, Active Military (w/ ID) $13.00 and College Students (w/ ID) $13.00. Children under 5 are free. Visit our website to confirm times and exhibit updates. (251) 436-8901 info@gulfquest.org www.gulfquest.org

Kid’s Gulf Discovery Day

12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36528 June 14, 2017 - 9am - 12pm, Children of all ages will enjoy learning about the wildlife and ecology of the Gulf Coast from a variety of environmental organizations. The Environmental Studies Center will bring their Raptor Road Show to the Great Lawn to engage and educate guests about the wonders of native birds of prey. Visitors may also take a guided cruise along the beautiful Fowl River, courtesy of WildNative Delta Safaris. Space is limited! Reservations are required for the cruises, so be sure to make your reservations early. Times are 9:30am, 10:30am, 11:30am and 12:30pm. Kids Gulf Discovery Day is from 9am – 12pm. Join us for a day of summer fun! (251) 973-2217 sericson@bellingrath.org www.bellingrath.org

Mobile Botanical Gardens

5151 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 mbg2@bellsouth.net - Wednesday - Sunday 9:00 am 4:00 pm, 100-acre site of cultivated gardens and woodland trails. Enjoy the serenity and beauty of nature, see in one place the largest collection of plants on the Gulf Coast, and learn about the diversity of our local plant and wild life. MBG Marketplace Saturdays 9-12:00pm

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until the end of June. Also offering classes and events. Admission: Members: Free, Adults $5, Children 12 and under free. Hours: Wednesdays-Sundays from 9:00am-4:00pm. Check website for more information. (251) 342-0555

www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org

Sea, Sand & Stars

4900 South Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach, 36561 Monday - Thursday the weeks of June 5, June 12, June 19, June 26, July 10, July 17 and July 14 - Monday - Thursday 9am - 2pm, All ages are welcome to come tour our beautiful facility. Visitors will learn about the history of Sea, Sand, & Stars, observe some of the unique and beautiful creatures that share the gulf waters with us, then watch a movie and be amazed by a night sky presentation in our planetarium. (251) 9815690

www.seasandandstars.com

Weeks Bay Reserve

11300 U.S. Highway 98 Fairhope, 36532 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. (251) 928-9792 LG.Adams@dcnr.alabama.gov www.weeksbayreserve.com

Recreation Centers Bay Minette Recreation Complex

611 McMeans Avenue Bay Minette, 36507 The Bay Minette Recreation Complex is home to the

Rec & Roll Skate Center and Strike City Lanes bowling alley. The Recreation Department also provides classes in dance, gymnastics, and quilting and a summer “Kelly’s Kids” camp. The Rec Department oversees city league play in basketball, softball, soccer and tackle football. Please visit our website or call for specific program information.

(251) 580-2546 nburt@ci.bay-minette.al.us or kjohnson@ ci.bay-minette.al.us www.cityofbayminette.org/Recreation-Department

Daphne Recreation Center

2605 US Highway 98 Daphne, 36526 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. (251) 621-3703 recdirc@bellsouth.net www.daphneal.com

David L. Bodenhamer Recreation Center

www.gulfshoresal.gov

US Highway 98 Fairhope, 36532 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. (251) 990-0175

www.cofairhopeal.com

Foley Recreation Center

121 North Alston Street Foley, 36535 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. Baseball, basketvball, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis and much more! Visit our website for information about specific activities. (251) 970-5020 dthompson@cityoffoley.org www.foleyrecreation.com/swimming

Orange Beach Rec Center

310 West 19th Avenue Gulf Shores, 36542 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. (251) 968-1420

Fairhope Rec Center

4853 Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach, 36561 Monday – Friday 7:00 am - 6:00 pm, Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm, Closed Sunday, 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 specific summer activities. (251) 981-6028

www.obparksandrec.com

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Swimming Eastern Shore Aquatics Center-ESAC ad on page 27

10580 County Road 64 Daphne, 36526 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.

more. Please contact the Rec Center for information on joining the swim season. (251) 968-1420 nard@gulfshoresal.gov www.gulfshoresal.gov

Fairhope Recreation Center Swim Team and Swim Lessons (FAST)

(251) 300-0820 richsuhs@aol.com www.swimforswat.com

(251) 990-0175

BMAC Swim School

300 West Roosevelt Street Foley, 36535 Swim lessons will be offered throughout the summer at Max Griffin pool beginning June 5, 2017. Sign up is after May 29, 2017. Please call for more information and registration. Visit the website for pool times and schedules.

We want all children to be as safe as possible in the water! BMAC Swim School has been teaching swimming to Baldwin Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children for the past 20 years. Class sizes are 4 - 6 children. Classes fill up quickly, so call soon! (251) 458-2628 BMACSwim@yahoo.com www.bmacswim.com

David L. Bodenhamer Recreation Center

www.cofairhopeal.com

Foley Recreation Swim

(251) 943-7946 dthompson@cityoffoley.org www.foleyrecreation.com/swimming

Orange Beach Aquatic Center

4853 Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach, 36561 Swim lessons are offered June and July. Parent/ Child, learn to swim, and stroke development classes are offered. Swim lesson sessions are $35/members and $45/non-members. Private lessons are $100 for members and $110 for non-members.

310 West 19th Avenue Gulf Shores, 36542 The David L. Bodenhamer Recreation Center is a membership based community center that offers a variety of recreational activities along with an indoor heated (251) 974-SWIM (7946) jlewis@cityoforangebeach.com PA with Big lap Sunflower Ad.qxp_Layout 1 5/15/17 Page 1 pool lanes, saunas, an AquaClimb wall, and 4:04 PM www.obparksandrec.com

TNT Swimming

8051 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, 36526 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 more information please call or email. (251) 300-0543 swimtnt123@aol.com www.swimtnt.com

Tennis City of Foley Recreation Tennis

Cedar Street Foley, 36535 The City of Foley offers tennis clinics throughout the year and during the Summer at Mel Roberts (Cedar Street) Park for all ages. June 6, 2017 is the next lesson offered for ages 5-18. Please call for questions about our tennis program and to register for a class. (251) 970-5020

www.foleyrecreation.com

George C. Myers Tennis Center

2049 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 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. (251) 968-1341

www.gulfshoresal.gov

Lake Forest Racquet Club

1 Golf Terrace Daphne, 36526 The Lake Forest Racquet Club is conveniently located next to the main Olympic size swimming pool on Country Club Drive. Classes are offered to all ages including

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group clinics and private lessons. Please call or visit our website for specific information. (251) 626-0788 lakeforestcc@bellsouth.net www.lfpoa.com

Orange Beach Tennis Center

4851 Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach, 36561 This facility features eight lighted medium speed hard courts. The Tennis Center offers youth, adult and senior adult tennis programs. Please call the numbers listed above for rates and registrations. (251) 974-NETS (6387) or (251) 233-9628 rhett7@hotmail.com www.obparksandrec.com

Point Clear Tennis

17107 Tennis Club Drive Fairhope, 36532 Point Clear Tennis Club features clay courts in beautiful Point Clear. Single and Family Memberships are available. Point Clear Tennis also offers tennis camps for grades K-12, beginner and intermediate levels. Please email or call Coach Matt McKelvain for specific camps, lessons and activities. (251) 604-1259 mattmckelvain@gmail.com

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Water Fun, Sailing, Cruises and Tours Down Under Dive Shop ad on page 31

1129 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 We offer Daily Walk-on Charters, Snorkeling Tours, Scuba Instruction, and Kayak Rentals. We offer scuba certification, CPR, diver rescue, open water diver courses, fun excursions and more! Every month we will feature a new destination to help you learn about the world’s best places to scuba dive. Visit our website or call for detailed rental information and instruction. (251) 968-Dive (3483) Info@DownUnderDiveShop.com www.downunderdiveshop.com

Five Rivers Outfitters/ Bartram Canoe Trail ad on page 53

30841 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 8am - 5pm 7 days a week, Five Rivers Outfitters overlooks the beautiful Mobile-Tensaw 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. Visit our website for detailed canoe trail maps and trip information.

(251) 625-0814 shonda.borden@dcnr.alabama.gov www.outdooralabama.com/5-rivers-bartram-canoe-kayaklanding

Waterville USA ad on page 67

Bottoms Up Safari

27075 Marina Road Orange Beach, 36561 By appointment, Come explore the underwater wildlife of Orange Beach, Alabama with Captain Ellis or Captain Doug on his custom-built 32 foot U.S. Coastguard approved pontoon boat “Bottoms Up”. If you are looking for something better than the usual dolphin cruise in

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Mo fort The way boa Orange Beach or Gulf Shores, Bottoms Up Safari is it. Our cruises are a hands on experience. 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! (251) 269-0073

Delta Airboat Express

3733 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort, 36527 By appointment, Take a tour with us and experience a treat for the Whole family! Learn about the wildlife in the Mobile-Tensaw 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. Please call for reservations 24 hours in advance. (251) 370-7089

www.airboatexpress.com

Dolphin Cruises - Cold Mil Fleet

5749 Bay La Launch Avenue Orange Beach, 36561 We offer 1.5 hour daytime and sunset cruises for groups, field trips, birthdays and more. Our 50 foot vessel offers partial shade, restroom and a 360 dolphin view! 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. (251) 943-3510 or (877) 659-9011 coldmilfleet@yahoo. com www.dolphincruises.com

Dolphins Down Under

27267 Perdido Beach Blvd Orange Beach, 36561 Join us and search for wild dolphins! Our knowledgeable captains and crew will guide you and your family on exciting quest to watch the dolphins frolic and play in their natural environment. We offer dolphin tours, birthday parties, lunch cruises, snorkeling, glass bot-

tom kayaking and Jet Ski excursions. Dolphins Down Under has two custom Glass-Bottom Catamarans with a capacity of 49 passengers. Each stable, comfortable vessel can host a variety of occasions. You can reserve an entire vessel for Private parties, Island Excursions, Sunset Trips and other Special Events.

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. Ask about our Birthday parties, group discounts during off season.

Eastern Shore Centre Fountain

Alabama Canoe Trails

(251) 968-5386

www.dolphinsdownunder.net

30500 Highway 181 Spanish Fort, 36527 Monday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Sunday 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., 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. Bring your children in their swimsuits and enjoy watching as they laugh and giggle while chasing the dancing water. 251) 625-0060 info@easternshorecentre.com www.easternshorecentre.com

Fairhope Fly Shop (Church Mouse)

14 South Church Street Fairhope, 36532 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. (251) 928-1619 chmouse5@bellsouth.net www.thechurchmouse.com

Go Go Kayaks

921 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 9am - 5pm 7 days a week, 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.

(251) 752-5500 or Fort Morgan (251) 540-7529 www.gogokayaks.com

The Alabama State Lands Canoe Trails offer canoeists and kayakers alike the ability to explore the State’s unique natural resources while providing paddlers with opportunities for both day and over-night trips. There are 170+ miles of trail located along the Bartram Canoe Trail in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and Perdido River Canoe Trail. (251) 625-0814

www.alabamacanoetrails.com

Gulf Coast Ducks

2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36603 Located at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park this duck boat tour is sure to exceed even your highest expectations. Be wildly entertained as our energetic tour guides bring hilarity and fun to this interactive tour. As you hop aboard the Gulf Coast’s only land and water tour you will experience the Mobile River, Downtown Mobile, Mobile Bay and Battleship Park like you’ve never seen them before. Prepare to experience over 3,000 years of Mobile history including a real life Game of Thrones featuring stories of colonial powers battle for control over Mobile’s waterways. (251) 802-8687

www.gulfcoastducks.com

Mobile Bay Ferry

Daily departures every 1 1/2 hours. The trip between Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island and Fort Morgan at

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Mobile Point provides wonderful views of the two historic forts that have long guarded the entrance of Mobile Bay. The trip takes approximately 40 minutes and is a great way for passengers to view birds, sea life and other boats and ships. (251) 861-3000 kwade@hmsgm.com www.mobilebayferry.com

Nautica Ltd.

Seacliff Drive Fairhope, 36532 Your family and friends will experience some of the finest cruising the pristine emerald Gulf Coast can provide. We offer bareboat, captain/instructor charters and excursions. Ask about our Sailing School’s “Course to set a Course” package. Two days of Certification Class, three or more discounted days of bareboat cruising. Nautica Ltd.’s programs are tailored to the needs of each 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 information. (251) 510-SAIL (7245) nauticaltd@nauticaltd.com www.nauticaltd.com

Paddled By You

26448 Cotton Bayou Drive Orange Beach, 36561 Monday – Saturday 9am – 6pm, Closed Sunday., We are a family-owned and operated kayak and paddleboard rental service on Cotton Bayou in Orange Beach. There are several beautiful islands within paddling distance, including Bird Island, Robinson Island, and Sand Island. They’re perfect spots for a quick break or some sunbathing on the beach. We are located at one of the ten stops along the Orange Beach Canoe Trail. Single, double and triple Kayaks are available for rent as well as stand up paddleboards. Please call for reservations and visit our website for rates. (251) 752-9250

www.PaddledByYou.com

Pirate Ship Cruise

4575 South Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach, 36561 7 days a week 8:00 am -8:00 pm, 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, sing along as the pirate crew sings songs of the sea, hear true stories of pirate attacks and hunt for lost gold and treasure! We also offer fishing charters, dolphin cruises, parasailing, jet ski and sea-doo rentals, dinner cruises and more. Birthday party packages too! (251) 981-4127

www.hudsonmarina.net

Sailaway Charters

24231 Gulf Bay Road Orange Beach, 36561 Explore Longs Bayou and Wolf Bay on this narrated nature tour with Capt. Skip. This is fun for the entire family. 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. (251) 974-5055 sailorskip@yahoo.com www.sailorskip.com

Southern Rose Parasailing and Dolphin Trips

27212 Marina Road Orange Beach, 36561 When you go on a tour with us, seeing a dolphin is an absolute guarantee. The boat ride is a relaxing and enjoyable experience for individuals, couples, or the entire family. Get the best view of Orange Beach and the picturesque Gulf of Mexico from 800 feet in the air as you enjoy a parasailing excursion. In addition to cruising alongside some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures, visitors enjoy a 90-minute to two-hour ride on the water, complete with an onboard snack bar for kids and adults. 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. Visit our website for rates and booking information. (855) 524-8837

www.southernrosedolphintrips.com

Taking Off Hot Air Balloon Rides

Magnolia Springs, 36555 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 Boat tours for gulf or inshore fishing, sight seeing and sunset cruising. Visit our website for more information and photos. (251) 970-FLYU (3598) trachel@gulftel.com www.gulfviewballooning.com

Underwater Works, Inc.

24208 US Highway 98 Fairhope, 36532 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 consisting

of coral reefs, shipwrecks, oil rigs, and military surplus. Underwater Works specializes in scuba diving instruction offering SSI and PADI open water diver courses.

(251) 928-5550

www.alabamadive.com

Wind and Water Learning Center

Orange Beach, 36561 The City of Orange Beach Wind and Water Learning Center on Wolf Bay offers summer sailing lessons for youth ages 7 – 14 years. Lessons are taught by US Certified Sailing Instructors. Instructors use on-shore and on-the-water activities to ensure students acquire proper sailing skills. Students are learning while having fun! Beginner Classes are held from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Varying Intermediate/Advanced Classes are held from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. We will offer weekly sessions beginning June 5th, 2017 and continue through the middle of August. (251) 424-5909 windandwater@cityoforangebeach.com or ncantrell@Cityoforangebeach.com www.windandwaterlearning.com ESP

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Arts and Crafty Kids

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Most parents and teachers will agree that art is a powerful element in every child’s learning toolbox. It’s the one thing that every kid can produce on an equal footing because art is an individual expression – there’s no way to get it wrong. Art teaches problem solving and encourages open-ended thinking. It focuses attention and cultivates hand-eye coordination. Children who are encouraged to explore art are more receptive to risk-taking, more inclined to explore diverse solutions and more open to learn from their mistakes. The following items are recommended resources to foster early artistic exploration and to empower every child’s inner artist along the way.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Pottery Cool Studio

Needle Felting Kit

From the variety of pottery wheel options for kids, the Pottery Cool Studio turns the competition on its head with an upside down design that lets gravity assist kids’ shaping of clay masterpieces. Complete with every thing needed to launch the creative process, from sculpting tools and paintbrushes to paint and two pounds of clay, this kit includes easy instructions for a variety of forms. Simply place a disc of clay on the inverted spinning base, and your child’s project will begin to take shape. Young potters can put their own artistic spin on pencil holders, smart phone speakers, frames and more with all the tools at their fingertips. Once kids get the hang of manipulating clay in the round, there are additional project kits for pottery masters who’d like to expand their 3D art portfolio.

Needle felting is enjoying new popularity among artists and Artterro has come to the fore with the best collection of materials and tools to introduce this sensational craft craze to the younger set. Using a sturdy barbed needle, wool fibers are compacted by repeatedly jabbing the needle into the fibers to form three-dimensional felt figures as well as colorful soft canvas pieces. In addition to four wool felt squares, thirteen colors of roving wool, needles and instruction book, this kit includes a soy-based foam pad to sit below the working needle (because, in truth, needle felting is all about stabbing wool). Surprisingly versatile and open to a broad range of artistic expression, the Artterro Needle Felting Kit is an ideal introduction to this tactile and wildly satisfying craft form.

Kreatio Jumbo Size Oil Pastels

Stencil Kit for Young Artists

While crayons are the most common tools for the youngest members of the art community, the amount of pressure required to make heavier marks with crayons can be frustrating for small hands. Oil pastels are a softer medium, allowing kids to work more on their artistic vision and less on building their upper arm strength. Jumbo-sized so small hands can grasp them easily, the Kreatio pastels create a bolder color than standard wax crayons and offer more versatility through blending. The plastic carrying case keeps twentyfour brilliant colors organized and portable for the artist on the move. Take the pressure out of coloring and consider the lighter touch of oil pastels for the littlest Rembrandt.

For the kids who want to draw, but can benefit from a jump start on the creative process, stencils are the easiest way to cultivate a sense of form and space as they build their drawing skills. With twelve sharpened colored pencils, twelve large stencils, a sharpener and a carrying case, guided art is ready to happen instantly. The Boofo stencils (featuring animals, plants, cars, shapes and more) are sturdy and washable ensuring a durable resource for training young hands as they hone their drawing chops. More than just a guide for pencil tips, the Boofo stencil kit is the perfect resource to build a child’s confidence and empower their artistic drive toward independent drawing mastery.

(Spin Master)

(Artterro)

(Kreatio)

(Boofo)

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

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

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Ca In today’s digital age, families are spending more time inside and less exploring nature. Studies show that kids who spend time outside have better overall health and fitness levels, report better vision, less stress and depression, and are more likely to have good social skills. (www.nwf.org) The National Wildlife Federation also reports that “Spending time outside raises levels of Vitamin D, helping protect children from future bone problems, heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues.” As kids spend more and more time watching TV and playing video games on a daily basis, only about 10 percent of kids say they are spending time outdoors every day.” (www.nature.org) If your kids fall into the 90% of children that don’t get out every day, here are some fun ways to change that. Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

Become a nature artist

Kids will begin to notice the beauty in nature if they are observing it from an artist’s standpoint. Bring the easel and art supplies out to the backyard and have the kids paint or draw what they see around them. Let the kids try their hand at photography while exploring nature by photographing plants, insects, and the landscape around them. Later make a scrapbook or frame their masterpieces.

Get dirty

Dress the kids in play clothes and give them permission to enjoy nature even if they get a little dirty, suggests Julie Keller, mother of three. Allow kids to dig for worms, lift rocks to find insects, and try fishing. Teach kids about gardening while 78

letting them plant flowers, vegetables, and other plants. Kansas mom Ally McDaniel says, “My four year old loves to help plant, dig in dirt, and water the garden. We look for worms, bugs, and baby snakes.” Kids that grow up planting and gardening develop a lifelong positive relationship with plants and trees. (www.childrenandnature.org)

Get comfortable

Collect some old pillows and blankets, bring them outside, and get comfortable. Darcy King, mother of two, says, “I teach my kids to enjoy nature by enjoying it myself. Stop and admire flowers, sunsets, scenery, and spend time outside.” Simply spending time in the great outdoors can help kids grow to love nature. Observe your surroundings and talk about what you see and hear. Read a book, take www.easternshoreparents.com

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a nap, and observe the cloud shapes. A great book for encouraging creativity when looking at cloud shapes is It Looked Like Spilt Milk, by Charles Shaw.

Have a picnic

Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal outside after a hike, at a local park, or even in your own backyard. Without the distractions of the normal surroundings of your home, conversation will be easier and more fun.

Treasure hunt

Allow kids to take their time as you are on a nature walk. Do you see any flowers, insects, or birds you have not noticed before? If the park allows, collect treasures as you walk the trails. Have the children pick up sticks, rocks, leaves, or anything of interest. “We make it into a game. When we go on walks we collect small things to put in our nature jars. One time we even did a scavenger hunt after dark with a flashlight, which was a big hit.” says Rachael Kennedy, mother of five.

Campout

Camping is a great way to spend time in the outdoors as a family. A family campout, whether at a local park or in your backyard, encourages family bonding time and helps kids “unplug” from their electronics and enjoy the fresh air. One of the most important things to remember when you are trying to teach your kids is to model it yourself. “We try to get out and explore together. I try to just let them be in nature and really experience what exists,” says Sara Sinani, mother of three boys. Get involved, show the kids by example that nature is fun to explore and has great health benefits. If kids grow up spending time outside, they are sure to develop a desire to spend more time outdoors as they grow. ESP Sarah Lyons is a mother of six who loves to explore parks and go camping with her family.

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251.928.9292 Five Convenient Locations | Fairhope: 7489 Parker Road | Fairhope South: 19059 S. Greeno Road Spanish Fort: 9816 Millwood Circle | Bay Minette: 1901 Hand Ave. | Foley: 815 North Alston St.

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Jubilee Shores United Methodist Church

17261 State Highway 181, Fairhope, 36532 Dates: May 29-June 2 Times: 8:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. “Egypt” Spend a while on the Nile through Joseph’s Journey! VBS is open to K - 5th grade. Please call the church office for questions. Registration is available online at our website. (251) 928-9133 www.jubileeshores.net

Christ Presbyterian Church

8450 Whispering Pines Road, Daphne, 36526 Dates: June 4-June 8 Times: 5:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. 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 or visit our website. (251) 621-9444 christchurchdaphne@gmail.com www.cpcdaphne.com

Rosinton United Methodist Church

26011 Baldwin Beach Express, Robertsdale, 36567 Dates: June 4-June 7 “Mega Sports Camp” We will offer a fun week of exciting sports! Please contact the church office for registration information. (251) 964-5988 rosintonumc@gmail.com

Fairhope UMC ad on page 8

155 South Section Street, Fairhope, 36532 Dates: June 5-June 9 Times: 8:45 a.m. -12:15 p.m. “Maker Fun Factory” Created by God, Built for a Purpose; 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 7th, 2017. For more information contact Michelle Graham. (251) 928-1148 michelle.graham@fairhopeumc.org www.fairhopeumc.org

First Baptist Fairhope

ad on page 57 300 South Section Street, Fairhope, 36532 Dates: June 5-June 8 Times: 9:00 a.m.-12:45 p.m. “GALACTIC STARVEYORS! Discovering the God of the Universe” Get ready to explore our universe like never before! Kick off night will be Sunday, June 4th from 5pm – 7pm. VBS will continue on Monday June 5th – Wednesday June 8th. RegistraEastern Shore Parents I June 2017

tion is available online. Please call the church office for more information. (251) 928-8685 dlund@fbcfairhope.org www.fbcfairhope.org

Spanish Fort Presbyterian Church

ad on page 74

6620 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort, AL 36527 Dates: June 5 – 9 Times: 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Rising K - 5th grade (completed) “Passport to Peru ~ Discovering God’s Good Gifts”. Registration is available at https://vbspro. events/p/8e4646. Please call or email us for questions. (251) 626-1242; www.spanishfortpresbyterian.com office@spanishfortpc.com

Eastern Shore Baptist Church

6847 Park Drive Daphne, 36526 Dates: June 5-June 9 Times: 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. “GALACTIC STARVEYORS! Discovering the God of the Universe” Get ready to explore our universe like never before! Join us as we fix our telescopes on the marvels in the sky to discover the wonderful Creator who made them! Your kids will discover the wonder among all wonders—that the God who created the universe and everything in it—has made a way for us all to have a personal relationship with Him! Registration is available at www. myesbc.net for kids entering K5 - 6th grades. For more information contact Josh Sellers at josh@ myesbc.net. (251) 626-5550 josh@myesbc.net www.myesbc.net

Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church

23050 U.S. Highway 98, Fairhope, 36532 Dates: June 5-June 8 Times: 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. “Operation Arctic: Exploring the Coolest Book on the Planet”. Join us for our kickoff Sunday June 4 at 4:30pm. VBS is open to children PreK - 6th Grade. (251) 210-1226 www.easternshorepca.org

First Baptist Church, Robertsdale

18200 Highway 104, Robertsdale, 36567 Dates: June 5-June 9 Times: 9:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. “CAMP 318” Camp 318 is a week long 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 May 8 - May 19, 2017. All students must preregister online at our website above. The $20.00 fee includes all supplies and t-shirt. Space is limited. For more information visit our website or call the church office. (251) 947-4362 cindy@firstrobertsdale.com www.firstrobertsdale.com

Loxley First Baptist Church

1050 North Alabama Street Loxley, 36551 Dates: June 5-June 9 Times: 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. “Maker Fun Factory” Created by God Built for a purpose. For more information or questions, please call the church office. Ages 4-12 (Must be 4 by June 20th) Pre-registration is strongly encouraged online by visiting www.groupvbspro.com/cc/fbcloxley. (251) 964-5261 info@fbcloxley.com www.fbcloxley.com

Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church

902 Daphne Avenue, Daphne, 36526 Dates: June 12-June 16 Times: 5:30 p.m. “The Faith Run - Hebrews 12:1” Macedonia VBS begins at 5:30 p.m. each evening for ages 5 years and up. There will be lessons, arts and crafts and a meal served at 5:30. The Directors are Sister Cynthia Montgomery, Sister Mildred Rudolph, and Sister Candra Taylor. To register, please call the church office. (251) 626-9393 www.macedoniabaptistchurch-daphne.com

Orange Beach United Methodist Church 28751 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Dates: June 12 -June 16 Times: 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. “Maker Fun Factory – Created by God, Built for a Purpose” Open to ages 3 years (potty trained) rising 5th grade. Online registration is available at www.orangebeachumc.org. For more information contact Paul Hopper at PHopper@OrangeBeachUMC.org or call the church office. (251) 981-6751 oboffice@orangebeachumc.org www.orangebeachumc.org

Spanish Fort United Methodist Church

Highway 31 at Hwy 225, Spanish Fort, 36527 Dates: June 12-June 16 Times: 8:45 a.m.-12:15 PM “Maker Fun Factory” Come join us to learn about how we are all created by God and built for a purpose! Go to www.spanishfortumc.org for registration. Please call the church office for questions. (251) 626-1334 ministries@spanishfortumc.org www.spanishfortumc.org

St. Lawrence Catholic Parish

370 South Section Street, Fairhope, 36532 Dates: June 12-June 16 Times: 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. “Follow Me To Galilee” Open to ages entering K 6th grade. Online registration is available at www. stlawrencevbs.com. Registration deadline is May 12. $40 per child. Please call (251) 928-5931 ext. 132 for more information. (251) 928-5931 family@stlawrencefairhope.com www.stlawrencefairhope.com

3Circle Church

10274 Highway 104, Fairhope, 36532 Dates: June 19-June 23 Times: See Below “Camp 3Circle” Open to ages 4 years - 4th grade. 4 and 5 year olds will meet from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. K - 4th grade will meet from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00

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p.m. Online registration begins May 1st. For more information contact the church office. (251) 990-3112 info@3circlechurch.com www.3circlechurch.com

Ascension Lutheran Church

8888 County Road 64, Daphne, 36526 Dates: June 19 Times: 9:00 a.m. “Mighty Fortress” In Jesus, the Victory is Won! Welcome to Mighty Fortress, where kids learn that God is their refuge and strength. Friends may fail them. They may not ace their test or make the team, but God promises to be their rock and their salvation—their fortress and sure defense. So raise your banner! In Jesus, the victory is won! (251) 626-7500 office@OurDaphneChurch.org www.ourdaphnechurch.org

Family Ministries Center

9955 County Road 34, Fairhope, 36532 Dates: June 19-June 23 Times: 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. “Galactic Starveyors: Discovering the God of the Universe” As kids focus their telescopes on the marvels painted in the sky by the Creator, they will discover the wonder among all wonders - that the God who created everything, wants a personal relationship with them! (Colossians 1:15-16). Come reach for the stars 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 11am – 1pm. (251) 928-4780 tiffanyerowan@gmail.com www.familyministriescenter.net

First Baptist Church of Foley

221 North Alston Street, Foley, 36535 Dates: June 19-June 23 Times: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Open to ages 3 years - 6th grade. For questions contact the church office. Check our website for VBS Theme coming soon! (251) 943-8352 office@fbcfoley.com www.fbcfoley.com

First Baptist Church, Spanish Fort

8353 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort, 36527 Dates: June 19 – 23 Times: 8:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. “Operation Arctic”--Focusing on the Bible as the greatest book with the greatest news ever! For completed kindergarten thru completed 6th grade. (251) 626-3070

First UMC Bay Minette

120 West 2nd Street, Bay Minette, 36507 Dates: June 19-June 23 Times: 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. “Maker Fun Factory: Created by God, Built for a Purpose” The best week of the summer! New Friends, Amazing Experiments, Creative Games, Lip-Smacking Snacks, Surprising Adventures and Incredible Music. Register or sign up to volunteer at www.vbspro.events/p/fumcbm. Preregistration Deadline is June 2, 2017. For questions contact Manci Bryars, VBS Coordinator, at cmancibryars@ aol.com or call the church office. Open to children ages 4 – 12 years. Doors open at 8:00 am. Visit us on Facebook! (251) 937-8303 cmancibryars@aol.com www.fumcbayminette.org

3Circle Camp 56 (South Campus)

10274 State Highway 104, Fairhope, AL 36532 Dates: June 26 – 29 Times: 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 5th & 6th grade. “Camp 56” (251) 990-3112; www.3circlechurch.com info@3circlechurch.com

Jubilee Baptist Church

9264 Pleasant Road, Daphne, 36526 Dates: July 10-July 14 Times: 5:15 p.m.-8:00 p.m. “Galactic Starveyors” 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 is available at www.jubileebaptist. com. For more information, contact the church office. (251) 621-7095 john@jubileebaptist.com www.jubileebaptist.com

Trinity Presbyterian Church 545 South Mobile Street, Fairhope, 36532 Dates: July 10-July 14 Times: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. “Rome: Paul and the Underground Church” Open to ages K4 – Rising 5th grade. For more information, contact Carrys at the church. (251) 928-2524 or (251) 621-0775 tpccarrys@gmail.com www.tpcfairhope.org

Faith Family Fellowship ad on page 82

7100 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort, 36527 Dates: July 17-July 21 Times: 9:00 a.m.12:00 p.m. “Maker Fun Factory” Open to children who have completed K3 through 5th grade. Registration is online at www.faithfamilyonline.com (251) 626-1379 info@faithfamilyonline.com www.faithfamilyonline.com

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“Hero Central: Discover Your Strength in God” 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 21th at 6:00 p.m. (251) 968-2411 lee@gulfshoresumc.org www.gulfshoresumc.org

First Presbyterian Church Gulf Shores

309 East 21st Avenue, Gulf Shores, 36542 Dates: July 24-July 28 Times: 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. “Maker Fun Factory” VBS will surely spark creativity within your children as they become hands-on inventors who discover they’re lovingly created by God and built for a purpose! Registration is available online or by calling the church office. Open to those entering grades K through 4. (251) 968-7720 gsfpcusa@gulftel.com www.gulfshoresfirstpresbyterian.org

Barnwell Baptist Church

7780 US Highway 98, Fairhope, 36532 Dates: July 17-July 21 Times: 8:30 a.m. -11:30 a.m. “Maker Fun Factory - Created by God, Built for a Purpose” 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 21 at 5:30 p.m. (251) 928-8286 rcohronpmc@aol.com www.barnwellbaptist.org

Grace Fellowship, PCA

Celebration Church

8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope, 36532 Dates: July 17-July 19 (251) 928-0343 John@fairhopechurch.com www.fairhopechurch.com

Gulf Shores United Methodist Church

1900 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores, 36542 Dates: July 17-July 20 Times: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

1740 South Juniper Street Foley, 36535 Dates: July 24-July 28 Times: 5:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. “Son West Round-Up” Open to ages 4 years – 5th grade. Dinner will be provided. Please call the church office or email Sarah.thornbury@gmail.com for more information. (251) 968-5302 gfpca.gulfcoast@gmail.com or Sarah.thornbury@gmail.com www.gracefellowship-pca.com ESP

VBS

July 17-21, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Open to children who have completed K3 through 4th grade. Register online at www.faithfamilyonline.com 7100 Spanish Fort Bld., Spanish Fort 36527

(251) 626-1379

info@faithfamilyonline.com Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

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A Page in a Book The Power of a Poem: More Than Just the Words Our early speech to children, with its sing-song lilts and rhyming endearments, is full of poetry. Before babies are old enough to decipher words, they can recognize rhythmic and repeating sounds. Poetry predates written language. Our ancestors used the cant and rhythm of poems to understand and retain the ‘idea’ of things in the absence of written records. The repeating words and sounds punctuated our language with markers and milestones as it helped us memorize our story and history. The following titles cherish the power of poetry and introduce young readers to one of literature’s earliest and most endearing storytelling forms.

A Carnival of Cats

by Charles Ghigna, Illustrated by Kristi Bridgeman (Orca Publishing) Move over, Mother Goose. Charles Ghigna’s moniker of ‘Father Goose’ is well-deserved as a prolific and beloved author of poetry for kids. His feline fancy, A Carnival of Cats pulls the youngest reader into the poetic arena with verse that not only introduces simple poetry, but also fosters predictive engagement. The recto (right hand) page offering rhythmic clues that indicate a specific breed. Children use the rhyming words to anticipate the type of cat to be revealed as the verso (left hand) page is turned. With warmly energetic illustrations celebrating everything from Calicoes to Black Bombays, cat lovers will find perfect pairings in A Carnival of Cats!

A Poke in the “I”: A Collection of Concrete Poems

Selected by Paul Janeczko, Illustrated by Chris Raschka (Candlewick) Concrete poetry is when the words or linguistic elements are arranged in a shape or pattern that adds visual emphasis to the meaning of the poem. Sometimes these shaped poems have an element of problem-solving as the reader discovers which path to follow as they read the words. The works selected for this title offer a rich variety of concrete poetry from the extremely simple to denser poems that require more attentive navigation. The vibrant illustrations mirror the use of shapes throughout without distracting from the importance of the poems’ shape. Get ready for a poetic poke in the eye with this bright look at concrete work.

A Song About Myself

by John Keats, Illustrated by Chris Raschka (Candlewick) Although John Keats’ (1795-1821) life was brief, his words and poetry have remained a testament to his gift for almost two centuries. His A Song About Myself, extracted from a letter to his sister during a visit to Scotland, captures the mischievous spirit and adventurous nature of a young boy abroad. The soft burr of a Scottish accent can be read in its lines, and adds extra auditory elements for a read-aloud listener. The rhyme and tempo of this work shift and start, much like the progress of a child leaping from creek to hill on a long hike. With soft watercolor illustrations updating the narrative, this aged poem remains a treasure for all ages.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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FamilyCalendar Thursday June 1

Art in the Park (Free) 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Lott Park, 2039 Main Street Daphne, 36526 Join us for one of the City of Daphne’s summertime favorites, Art in the Park. Thursday, June 1, 2017 and Thursday, June 8, 2017, both days 10 am - 1 pm at Lott Park. Crafts, Inflatables & FREE Concessions (Hot Dogs, Lemonade, Popcorn & Sno-Cones)! www.daphneal.com Lunch at the Shoppes 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Bel Air Mall Mobile, 36606 The Shoppes at Bel Air will host its second quarterly ‘Lunch at The Shoppes’ weekend June 1-3. During lunch hours, participating restaurants and retailers throughout TheShoppes will offer specials and promotions. Customers can stroll The Shoppes while enjoying live music and art displays located throughout the mall. During the June Lunch at The Shoppes, two student art displays will be on exhibit: The winning artwork from the inaugural “Student Voices against YouthViolence Art Contest” will be displayed May 12 – June 12. The annual Mobile Area Water and Sewer System (MAWSS) ‘Fun with Water’ Watercolor Contest will be on display May 24 – June 14. Fairhope Outdoor Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, The City of Fairhope will host a Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings starting May 4 and ending November 2, 2017. The market will be set up behind the Fairhope Public Library in the new parking lot 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 have children activities at 4 p.m. 251-929-1466 www.cofairhope.com Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night 8:00 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island & Greer’s Market Presents: Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. As always we encourage you to bring chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. Snack vendor will be on site during movie. Movie: Free Willy. www.townofdauphinisland.org Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series (Free) 8:00 PM Fairhopers Community Park, 105 S Church Street Fairhope, 36532 Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series. Brown Bag Concert Series 11:30 PM - 1:30 PM, May Day Park, Brown Bag Concert Series in May Day Park. 251-621-3703 www.discoverdaphne.org

Friday June 2

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

The Illuminating Autism FUNraiser offers food, fun and live music on the sandy shores of the laid-back beach restaurant. A highlight will be drawn downs for 2017 4X4 Jeeps from Gulf Chrysler on Saturday and Sunday. www.highhopes4autism.org Lunch at the Shoppes 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Bel Air Mall Mobile, 36606 The Shoppes at Bel Air will host its second quarterly ‘Lunch at The Shoppes’ weekend June 1-3. During lunch hours, participating restaurants and retailers throughout TheShoppes will offer specials and promotions. Customers can stroll The Shoppes while enjoying live music and art displays located throughout the mall. During the June Lunch at The Shoppes, two student art displays will be on exhibit: The winning artwork from the inaugural “Student Voices against YouthViolence Art Contest” will be displayed May 12 – June 12. The annual Mobile Area Water and Sewer System (MAWSS) ‘Fun with Water’ Watercolor Contest will be on display May 24 – June 14. Daphne Farmers Market 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, 2305 US-98 Daphne, 36526 Local farmers with locally grown produce, baked goods and great gulf fish. www.facebook.com/daphnefarmersmarket 5th Annual Crawfish Bash 5:00 PM Blackburn Park, Corner of South Hoyle Avenue and First Street Bay Minette, 36507 5th Annual Crawfish Bash - Food, Music and Fun! First Friday Art Walk 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope First Friday Art Walk Visit our local merchants in Downtown Fairhope as they open late and highlight the art community. Art Walk happens every first Friday of each month from 6-8 p.m. Music and a Movie “Moana” 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Heritage Park Gazebo, 101 East Violet Avenue Foley, 36535 Music and a Movie in Heritage Park.Enjoy music by the Groovinators before the movie. . Make sure you bring a lawn chair or blanket, and a picnic snack! 251-943-1200

Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night 8:00 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island & Greer’s Market Presents: Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. As always we encourage you to bring chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. Snack vendor will be on site during movie. Movie: Ice Age. www.townofdauphinisland.org Joe Jefferson Players present “Rock of Ages” 8:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 For the first time in Mobile, this smash Broadway hit, set in LA’s infamous Sunset Strip in 1987, tells the story of Drew, a boy from South Detroit and Sherrie, a small town girl, both in LA to chase their dreams of making it big and falling in love. Performance Dates: June 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18. 251-471-1534 www.joejeffersonplayers.com Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Green Days American Idiot” 8:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette

Street Mobile, 36604 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Green Days American Idiot”. 251-433-7513 www.mobiletheatreguild.org Summertide Theatre presents: Smoke on the Mountain 8:00 PM South Baldwin Community Theater, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 Smoke on the Mountain tells the story of a Saturday Night Gospel Sing at a country church in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains in 1938. The show features two dozen rousing bluegrass songs played and sung by the Sanders Family, a traveling group making its return to performing after a five-year hiatus. Nightly, Tuesday thru Sunday from June 2 - June 30. www.summertide.org

Saturday June 3

Publix Grandman Triathlon 7:00 AM Fairhope Municipal Pier, 1 North Beach Road Fairhope, 36532 Hosted by Mobile Baykeeper, the 13th Annual Publix Grandman Triathlon has become a premier destination for triathletes around the Southeast. Proceeds from the race benefit three local non-profit organizations: Mobile Baykeeper, myTeam Triumph: Southern Alabama, and Delta Bike Project. www.thegrandman.com Just for the Mud of it 7:30 AM 12251 Tanner Williams Road Mobile, 36608 “Just For The Mud Of It” is a 5k mud run and obstacle course created, designed, and built by the MPD S.W.A.T. Team. Obstacles include: low crawling, climbing walls and other obstacles, and navigating through mud pits and a creek. www.justforthemudofit.org Paddle Skedaddle

9:00 AM 2:00 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Spend the morning on the water racing (or moseying) a 1.5 mile course with your family or as an individual! There will be awards, lots of fair games & concessions on the grounds! While contestants are on the water, there are lots of fun activities for adults and children. There will be food and fair games galore. After the race, there will be awards given in a number of categories including, “parent/child teams”, “most creatively dressed team”, “loudest cheering section”, the coveted “Pews & Canoes Award” for the church with the most supporters there, etc. 251-625-0814

11th Annual Illuminating Autism Fun-raiser at Pirates Cove 11:00 AM Pirates Cove, 6600 Hwy 95 Elberta, 36530 A three-day fundraiser for autism will be capped off with a drawdown for two Jeeps at Pirates Cove Marina. The FUNraiser benefits High Hopes 4 Autism, an autism spectrum disorder treatment center in Elberta, AL. The Illuminating Autism FUNraiser offers food, fun and live music on the sandy shores of the laid-back beach restaurant. A highlight will be drawn downs for 2017 4X4 Jeeps from Gulf Chrysler on Saturday and Sunday. www.highhopes4autism.org Lunch at the Shoppes 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Bel Air Mall Mobile, 36606 The Shoppes at Bel Air will host its second quarterly ‘Lunch at The Shoppes’ weekend June 1-3. During lunch hours, participat-

www.easternshoreparents.com

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FamilyCalendar ing restaurants and retailers throughout TheShoppes will offer specials and promotions. Customers can stroll The Shoppes while enjoying live music and art displays located throughout the mall. During the June Lunch at The Shoppes, two student art displays will be on exhibit: The winning artwork from the inaugural “Student Voices against YouthViolence Art Contest” will be displayed May 12 – June 12. The annual Mobile Area Water and Sewer System (MAWSS) ‘Fun with Water’ Watercolor Contest will be on display May 24 – June 14. Gallery Talk - Frank Mayes 1:00 PM Eastern Shore Art Center, 401 Oak Street Fairhope, 36532 Learn more about the exhibit “People, Places and Things” from the artist himself! www.esartcenter.org Joe Jefferson Players present “Rock of Ages” 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 For the first time in Mobile, this smash Broadway hit, set in LA’s infamous Sunset Strip in 1987, tells the story of Drew, a boy from South Detroit and Sherrie, a small town girl, both in LA to chase their dreams of making it big and falling in love. Performance Dates: June 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18. 251-471-1534 www.joejeffersonplayers.com Brantley Gilbert in Concert 8:00 PM The Amphitheater at The Wharf, 23325 Amphitheater Drive Orange Beach, 36561800-7453000 www.alwharf.com/amphitheater.php Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Green Days American Idiot” 8:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Green Days American Idiot”. 251-433-7513 www.mobiletheatreguild.org Summertide Theatre presents: Smoke on the Mountain Details on June 2.

Sunday June 4

Jubilee Kids Triathlon 7:30 AM Fairhope Pier, 1 North Beach Road Fairhope, 36532 The Publix Jubilee Kids Triathlon will take place on Sunday June 4 at 7:30 a.m. at the Fairhope Pier, making it the perfect race weekend for the whole family. Proceeds from the race benefit three local non-profit organizations: Mobile Baykeeper, myTeam Triumph: Southern Alabama, and Delta Bike Project. www.mobilebaykeeper.org/jubilee-kids-triathlon 11th Annual Illuminating Autism Fun-raiser at Pirates Cove 11:00 AM Pirates Cove, 6600 Hwy 95 Elberta, 36530 A three-day fundraiser for autism will be capped off with a drawdown for two Jeeps at Pirates Cove Marina. The FUNraiser benefits High Hopes 4 Autism, an autism spectrum disorder treatment center in Elberta, AL. The Illuminating Autism FUNraiser offers food, fun and live music on the sandy shores of the laid-back beach restaurant. A highlight will be drawn downs for 2017 4X4 Jeeps from Gulf Chrysler on Saturday and Sunday. www.highhopes4autism.org Explore Mo-

bile 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Mardi Gras Park, 1 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 Enjoy music, food, activities, as well free admission to the city’s tourist attractions. 251-301-0273

Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Green Days American Idiot” 2:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Green Days American Idiot”. 251-433-7513 www.mobiletheatreguild.org Summertide Theatre presents: Smoke on the Mountain 8:00 PM South Baldwin Community Theater, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 Smoke on the Mountain tells the story of a Saturday Night Gospel Sing at a country church in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains in 1938. The show features two dozen rousing bluegrass songs played and sung by the Sanders Family, a traveling group making its return to performing after a five-year hiatus. Nightly, Tuesday thru Sunday from June 2 - June 30. www.summertide.org

Monday June 5

Daphne Summer Reading Kickoff 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne , 36526 Summer Reading Kick-Off. Join us for registration, reading bags, food and entertainment. www.daphnelibrary.org

Tuesday June 6

Tuesday Evening Civil War Tours 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Fort Morgan, 110 Alabama Hwy 180 Gulf Shores, 36542 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. www.fort-morgan.org Jimmy Buffett Concert 8:00 PM The Amphitheater at The Wharf, 23325 Amphitheater Drive Orange Beach, 36561800-7453000 www.alwharf.com/amphitheater.php Paint a Bird Feeder - Fantasy Island Toys ($5) Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Paint a Bird Feeder In-Store Activity is for ages 4 and up! The cost of the class is $5.00 per child. We have multiple sessions for this class, so choose the one you would like to sign up for. In this class, we will paint wooden bird feeders! (This would make a great Father’s Day gift!). This class lasts 30 minutes to 1 hour. Please sign up in advance, spaces fill quickly! Times: 11:00 or 1:00pm www.facebook.com/pg/FantasyIslandToys/events/

Wednesday June 7

Bellingrath Gardens Wonderful Wednesdays

(Admission fees are $13 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 5-12 and free to members and to ages 4 and younger.)

10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36582 Who knew that summertime Wednesdays could be so wonderful? 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. June 7: Summer Garden Walk. Join Bellingrath’s Horticultural Management Team for a guided tour of the Gardens to see our wonderful summer displays, floral borders and new additions. Stay for lunch in our Magnolia

Café and check out our new merchandise in the Bellingrath Gift Shop. 251-973-2217 www.bellingrath.org Kids Night (Admission is FREE; Activity Prices Vary $5, $7, $10)

5:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Palm Plaza at The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Every child deserves an evening centered around nothing but pure FUN! After all, it’s summertime, so what’s more perfect than a safe environment for the little ones to let out all that built-up energy! As part of our 100 Days of Summer celebration, each Wednesday night will be catered to the kids. There will be no shortage of entertainment during these activity-packed events. Face painting, prizes, games, music, a hula hoop performer, bouncy house and water slide will line Palm Plaza for all the occasions! www.alwharf.com

Thursday June 8

Thomas Hospital Birth Center Open House Noon to 2:00 PM, 750 Morphy Avenue, 36532 Thomas Hospital invites you to the Open House and Ribbon Cutting of the new Birth Center from noon – 2 p.m, on the 4th floor of Thomas Hospital just above the emergency department. A representative from the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce will lead a ribbon cutting at 12:30 p.m. We will have refreshments and tours. Art in the Park (Free) 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Lott Park, 2039 Main Street Daphne, 36526 Join us for one of the City of Daphne’s summertime favorites, Art in the Park. Thursday, June 1, 2017 and Thursday, June 8, 2017, both days 10 am - 1 pm at Lott Park. Crafts, Inflatables & FREE Concessions (Hot Dogs, Lemonade, Popcorn & SnoCones)! www.daphneal.com Fairhope Outdoor Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, 161 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 The City of Fairhope will host a Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings. 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 have children activities at 4 p.m. 251-929-1466 www.cofairhope.com Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night 8:00 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island & Greer’s Market Presents: Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. As always we encourage you to bring chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. Snack vendor will be on site during movie. Movie: The Secret Life of Pets www.townofdauphinisland.org Summertide Theatre presents: Smoke on the Mountain Details on June 2. www.summertide.org Paint a Bird Feeder - Fantasy Island Toys ($5) Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Paint a Bird Feeder In-Store Activity is for ages 4 and up! The cost of the class is $5.00 per child. We have multiple sessions for this class, so choose the one you would like to sign up for. In this

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FamilyCalendar class, we will paint wooden bird feeders! (This would make a great Father’s Day gift!). This class lasts 30 minutes to 1 hour. Please sign up in advance, spaces fill quickly! Times: 11:00 or 1:00pm www.facebook.com/pg/FantasyIslandToys/events/

Friday June 9

Daphne Farmers Market 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, 2305 US-98 Daphne, 36526 Local farmers with locally grown produce, baked goods and great gulf fish. www.facebook.com/daphnefarmersmarket Music and a Movie “Sing” 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Heritage Park Gazebo, 101 East Violet Avenue Foley, 36535 Music and a Movie in Heritage Park.Enjoy music by Christina Christian before the movie. Make sure you bring a lawn chair or blanket, and a picnic snack! 251-943-1200

Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night 8:00 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island & Greer’s Market Presents: Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. As always we encourage you to bring chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. Snack vendor will be on site during movie. Movie: Home www.townofdauphinisland.org Joe Jefferson Players present “Rock of Ages” 8:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 For the first time in Mobile, this smash Broadway hit, set in LA’s infamous Sunset Strip in 1987, tells the story of Drew, a boy from South Detroit and Sherrie, a small town girl, both in LA to chase their dreams of making it big and falling in love. Performance Dates: June 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18. 251-471-1534 www.joejeffersonplayers.com Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Green Days American Idiot” 8:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Green Days American Idiot”. 251-433-7513 www.mobiletheatreguild.org Summertide Theatre presents: Smoke on the Mountain Details on June 2.

Saturday June 10

Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament 6:00 AM The Wharf Marina, 4851 Wharf Parkway Orange Beach, 36561 The 2017 Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament will take place on Saturday, June 10, 2017. Fishing will begin at daybreak, weigh station opens at 10am and closes at 5pm, followed immediately by the award ceremony. There will be lots of awesome prizes for our bracket winners, as well as some great raffle prize opportunities for guests! www.kysertournament.com Fuse Project’s Fourth Annual Dragon Boat Festival 8:00 AM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36603 Over 1500 paddlers and 10,000 spectators will witness Fuse Project’s Fourth Annual Dragon Boat Festival. Teams of 20 paddlers, one drummer, and an experienced steerer

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

will rock the water in a 46-foot authentic Hong Kong style Dragon Boat at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park. Paddlers fundraise for Fuse Project: Investing in the world’s most valuable resource: our children. www.ussalabama.com Joe Jefferson Players present “Rock of Ages” 8:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 For the first time in Mobile, this smash Broadway hit, set in LA’s infamous Sunset Strip in 1987, tells the story of Drew, a boy from South Detroit and Sherrie, a small town girl, both in LA to chase their dreams of making it big and falling in love. Performance Dates: June 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18. 251-471-1534 www.joejeffersonplayers.com Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Green Days American Idiot” 8:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Green Days American Idiot”. 251-433-7513 www.mobiletheatreguild.org Summertide Theatre presents: Smoke on the Mountain 8:00 PM South Baldwin Community Theater, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 Smoke on the Mountain tells the story of a Saturday Night Gospel Sing at a country church in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains in 1938. The show features two dozen rousing bluegrass songs played and sung by the Sanders Family, a traveling group making its return to performing after a five-year hiatus. Nightly, Tuesday thru Sunday from June 2 - June 30. www.summertide.org

Sunday June 11

Joe Jefferson Players present “Rock of Ages” 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 For the first time in Mobile, this smash Broadway hit, set in LA’s infamous Sunset Strip in 1987, tells the story of Drew, a boy from South Detroit and Sherrie, a small town girl, both in LA to chase their dreams of making it big and falling in love. Performance Dates: June 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18. 251-471-1534 www.joejeffersonplayers.com Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Green Days American Idiot” 2:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Green Days American Idiot”. 251-433-7513 www.mobiletheatreguild.org

Tuesday June 13

($5)

Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Create a Stepping Stone In-Store Activity is for all ages! The cost of the class is $5.00 per child. Times: 11:00am and 1:00pm www.facebook.com/pg/FantasyIslandToys/events/

Wednesday June 14

Flag Day 9:00 AM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36603 The Eastern Shore Exchange Club will be aboard the USS ALABAMA giving lectures and presentations in the Ward Room on the American Flag and her history. Please stop by for their hourly presentation

Kids Gulf Discovery Day at Bellingrath Gardens and Home 9:00 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36582 Now that school is out, it’s time to plan a day of summertime fun for the family! Come to Bellingrath Gardens and Home for 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. Registration is encouraged for Kids Gulf Discovery Day. To register, call 251-9732217. 251-973-8973 www.bellingrath.org City of Daphne’s Wet-N-Wild Wednesday 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Lott Park, 2039 Main Street Daphne, 36526 Join the City of Daphne for one of our summertime favorites, Wet N Wild Wednesdays - June 14, June 21, and June 28, from 10am - 1pm at Lott Park. Bring your Swimsuits & Towels to enjoy the Waterslides & Small Pools! www.daphneal.com Kids Night (Admission is FREE; Activity Prices Vary $5,

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FamilyCalendar Mountain tells the story of a Saturday Night Gospel Sing at a country church in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains in 1938. The show features two dozen rousing bluegrass songs played and sung by the Sanders Family, a traveling group making its return to performing after a five-year hiatus. Nightly, Tuesday thru Sunday from June 2 - June 30. www.summertide.org

Thursday June 15

Fairhope Outdoor Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, Fairhope, 36532 The City of Fairhope will host a Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings starting May 4 and ending November 2, 2017. The market will be set up behind the Fairhope Public Library in the new parking lot 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 have children activities at 4 p.m. 251-929-1466 www.cofairhope.com Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night 8:00 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island & Greer’s Market Presents: Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. As always we encourage you to bring chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. Snack vendor will be on site during movie. Movie: Moana www.townofdauphinisland.org Stepping Stone Activity - Fantasy Island Toys

($5)

Friday June 16

Daphne Farmers Market 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, 2305 US-98 Daphne, 36526 Local farmers with locally grown produce, baked goods and great gulf fish. www.facebook.com/daphnefarmersmarket Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night 8:00 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island & Greer’s Market Presents: Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. As always we encourage you to bring chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. Snack vendor will be on site during movie. Movie: Cars 2 www.townofdauphinisland.org Joe Jefferson Players present “Rock of Ages” 8:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 For the first time in Mobile, this smash Broadway hit, set in LA’s infamous Sunset Strip in 1987, tells the story of Drew, a boy from South Detroit and Sherrie, a small town girl, both in LA to chase their dreams of making it big and falling in love. Performance Dates: June 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18. 251-471-1534 www.joejeffersonplayers.com

Saturday June 17

Ride Yellow 7:00 AM Halliday Park, Bay Minette, 36507 RIDEYELLOW 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, Alabama, with a 6-mile tribute ride. Individuals can choose to participate in only the tribute ride or continue

by pedaling the 10, 20, 37 or 62 mile route at their leisure. Rest stops are available along the way and food, beverages and vendor booths are available when riders return to the park. www.rideyellow.racesonline.com Market Days at the Chamber 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 301 McMeans Avenue Bay Minette, 36507 Join us for Market Days at the Chamber with produce, arts & crafts, antiques, live music, kids activities and food. www.northbaldwinchamber.com Joe Jefferson Players present “Rock of Ages” 8:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 For the first time in Mobile, this smash Broadway hit, set in LA’s infamous Sunset Strip in 1987, tells the story of Drew, a boy from South Detroit and Sherrie, a small town girl, both in LA to chase their dreams of making it big and falling in love. Performance Dates: June 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18. 251-471-1534 www.joejeffersonplayers.com

Sunday June 18

Joe Jefferson Players present “Rock of Ages” 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 For the first time in Mobile, this smash Broadway hit, set in LA’s infamous Sunset Strip in 1987, tells the story of Drew, a boy from South Detroit and Sherrie, a small town girl, both in LA to chase their dreams of making it big and falling in love. Performance Dates: June 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18. 251-471-1534 www.joejeffersonplayers.com Summertide Theatre presents: Smoke on the Mountain 8:00 PM South Baldwin Community Theater, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 Smoke on the Mountain tells the story of a Saturday Night Gospel Sing at a country church in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains in 1938. The show features two dozen rousing bluegrass songs played and sung by the Sanders Family, a traveling group making its return to performing after a five-year hiatus. Nightly, Tuesday thru Sunday from June 2 - June 30. www.summertide.org

Tuesday June 19

Summertide Theatre presents: Smoke on the Mountain Details on June 2.

Tuesday June 20

Wednesday June 21

City of Daphne’s Wet-N-Wild Wednesday 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Lott Park, 2039 Main Street Daphne, 36526 Join the City of Daphne for one of our summertime favorites, Wet N Wild Wednesdays - June 14, June 21, and June 28, from 10am - 1pm at Lott Park. Bring your Swimsuits & Towels to enjoy the Waterslides & Small Pools! www.daphneal.com Bellingrath Gardens Wonderful Wednesdays

(Admission fees are $13 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 5-12 and free to members and to ages 4 and younger.)

10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36582 Who knew that summertime Wednesdays could be so wonderful? 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. June 21 - Magnolia Cemetery Tour. Meet Tom McGehee, Museum Director of the Bellingrath Home, at Mobile’s Magnolia Cemetery for a very special walking tour. 251-973-2217 www.bellingrath.org

Kids Night (Admission is FREE; Activity Prices Vary $5,

$7, $10)

Thursday June 22

Summertide Theatre presents: Smoke on the Mountain Details on June 2. Fairhope Outdoor Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, Fairhope, 36532 The City of Fairhope will host a Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings starting May 4 and ending November 2, 2017. The market will be set up behind the Fairhope Public Library in the new parking lot 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 have children activities at 4 p.m. 251-929-1466 www.cofairhope.com Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night 8:00 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island & Greer’s Market Presents: Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. As always we encourage you to bring chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets,

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FamilyCalendar

glass or grills. Snack vendor will be on site during movie. Movie: Rio www.townofdauphinisland.org

to performing after a five-year hiatus. Nightly, Tuesday thru Sunday from June 2 - June 30. www.summertide.org

Summertide Theatre presents: Smoke on the Mountain Details on June 2.

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Color, Inflate, Play In-Store Activity ($5) Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Color, Inflate, Play In-Store Activity is for ages 4 and up! The cost of the class is $5.00 per child. Times: 11:00am and 1:00pm www.facebook.com/pg/FantasyIslandToys/events/

Sun-Sational Stained Glass ($5) Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Sun-Sational Stained Glass In-Store Activity is for ages 4 and up! The cost of the class is $5.00 per child. Times: 11:00am and 1:00pm www.facebook.com/pg/FantasyIslandToys/events/

Friday June 23

Wednesday June 28

Sunday June 25

Summertide Theatre presents: Smoke on the Mountain 8:00 PM South Baldwin Community Theater, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 Smoke on the Mountain tells the story of a Saturday Night Gospel Sing at a country church in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains in 1938. The show features two dozen rousing bluegrass songs played and sung by the Sanders Family, a traveling group making its return to performing after a five-year hiatus. Nightly, Tuesday thru Sunday from June 2 - June 30. www.summertide.org Sunday Sunset Concert - Dauphin Island 6:15 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island presents “Sunday Sunset Concerts” with Jonsey Jones and the Crowned Jewelz. Entrance fees $5.00 per individual! As always, attendees are encouraged to bring beach chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. *All concerts approx time & weather permitting! www.townofdauphinisland.org

Monday June 26

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

(Admission fees are $13 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 5-12 and free to members and to ages 4 and younger.)

10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36582 Who knew that summertime Wednesdays could be so wonderful? 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. June 28 - Roses for the Gulf Coast. Learn about new roses as well as the Southern standards from James Mills, owner of K&M Roses in Buckatunna, Miss. 251-973-2217 www.bellingrath.org

Autograph Session and Community Night sponsored by Encore Rehabilitation ($5) 5:30 PM Mobile Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 Visit with all 51 special young women and then get a sneak peek of the Distinguished Young Women Class of 2017 as they perform selections from the 60th National Finals Program. With performances from the “Has Beens,” current Distinguished Young Woman of America, Tara Moore, and other special guests, your entire family is sure to enjoy this community event. 251-438-3621 www.distinguishedyw.org Kids Night (Admission is FREE; Activity Prices Vary $5,

$7, $10)

International Mud Day - Children’s Workshop 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Graham Creek Nature Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, 36535 A special Observe & Explore event on June 29 celebrates International Mud Day. Activities will include the Mud Mountain, along with splash pad, sprinklers, spray bottles and sand toys. Come out and get muddy with us. For children ages 4 – 8. www.grahamcreekpreserve.org Fairhope Outdoor Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, Fairhope, 36532 The City of Fairhope will host a Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings starting May 4 and ending November 2, 2017. The market will be set up behind the Fairhope Public Library in the new parking lot 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 have children activities at 4 p.m. 251-929-1466 www.cofairhope.com 60th National Finals – Preliminaries 7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 Join us for the Distinguished Young Women Preliminary Competitions on Thursday and Friday as the Class of 2017 competes in fitness, talent and self-expression. On Thursday night, awards will be presented or community-supported cash scholarships and on Friday night for the Distinguished Young Women competition categories. 251-438-3621 www.distinguishedyw.org Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night 8:00 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island & Greer’s Market Presents: Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. As always we encourage you to bring chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. Snack vendor will be on site during movie. Movie: Jaws www.townofdauphinisland.org Sun-Sational Stained Glass ($5) Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Sun-Sational Stained Glass In-Store Activity is for ages 4 and up! The cost of the class is $5.00 per child. Times: 11:00am and 1:00pm www.facebook.com/pg/FantasyIslandToys/events/

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Friday June 30

Daphne Farmers Market 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, 2305 US-98 Daphne, 36526 Local farmers with locally grown produce, baked goods and great gulf fish. www.facebook.com/daphnefarmersmarket 60th National Finals – Preliminaries 7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 Join us for the Distinguished Young Women Preliminary Competitions on Thursday and Friday as the Class of 2017 competes in fitness, talent and self-expression. On Thursday night, awards will be presented or community-supported

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FamilyCalendar cash scholarships and on Friday night for the Distinguished Young Women competition categories. 251-438-3621 www.distinguishedyw.org Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night 8:00 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island & Greer’s Market Presents: Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. As always we encourage you to bring chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. Snack vendor will be on site during movie. Movie: Jaws www.townofdauphinisland.org Summertide Theatre presents: Smoke on the Mountain 8:00 PM South Baldwin Community Theater, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 Smoke on the Mountain tells the story of a Saturday Night Gospel Sing at a country church in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains in 1938. The show features two dozen rousing bluegrass songs played and sung by the Sanders Family, a traveling group making its return to performing after a five-year hiatus. Nightly, Tuesday thru Sunday from June 2 - June 30. www.summertide.org

Saturday July 1

Salute to American Independence 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Fort Morgan, 110 Highway 180 West Gulf Shores, 36542 The living history staff celebrate America’s Independence through firing artillery, weapons demonstrations, and special tours. www.fort-morgan.org Red, White and Bike 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Faulkner Halstead Ampitheater, Downtown Fairhope Fairhope, 36532 Exceptional Foundation Gulf Coast is excited to announce the 2nd annual Red, White & Bike parade, Saturday July 1st at the Faulkner Halstead Ampitheater in Downtown Fairhope. This event will be enjoyed by people of all ages showing their patriotic pride with red, white and blue decorated bikes, strollers, wagons, etc parading in the streets. This is a family event and will also have many other activities after the parade, including a pie eating contest, face painting and much much more!! The event will be held from 4pm - 7pm. Fees: Adult’s bike $15; Child’s bike $10; Family of 5 or more $30; Wagon $5; Golf Cart 20; Pie Eating $10. 251-625-8955 www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org Smoke on the Coast 6:00 PM Spanish Fort Town Center Park, 26000 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, 36527 Spanish Fort Town Center is hosting Smoke on the Coast Food & Fireworks Festival 2017 on Saturday, July 1. Join us at 6pm for food trucks, live musical entertainment featuring the Mulligan Brothers and Jamell Richardson, children’s activities and the region’s most exciting fireworks display at 9:30! www.SpanishFortTownCenter.com

60th National Finals 7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 On Saturday evening, help us in celebrating 60 years of inspiring young women during the Distinguished Young Women National Finals. Check out the ten finalists as they compete in fitness, talent and self-expression and enjoy performances from Tara Moore, Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2016. At the end of the night, one young woman will be named Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2017 251-438-3621 www.distinguishedyw.org

Monday July 3

Independence Day Street Party at The Wharf (Admission is FREE; some kids activities will range from $5 - $10 )

5:00 PM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 The Wharf will be in full-freedom mode on Monday, July 3rd! Main Street will be home to several children’s activities and serve as the prime location to watch the fireworks display. The palm trees will radiate red, white and blue for the occasion and Spectra the Sound and Light Spectacular shows will resume directly after the fireworks. Hours are 5pm – 9pm, Fireworks at 8:45pm. Cost: Admission is FREE with various activities ranging in price from $5 - $10. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Tuesday July 4

4th of July at USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park 5:00 PM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602 Live, patriotic entertainment provided by the Mobile Pops Band until the fireworks illuminate the sky! 251-208-1550 www.mobile.org

to let out all that built-up energy! As part of our 100 Days of Summer celebration, each Wednesday night will be catered to the kids. There will be no shortage of entertainment during these activity-packed events. Face painting, prizes, games, music, a hula hoop performer, bouncy house and water slide will line Palm Plaza for all the occasions! www.alwharf.com

Thursday July 6

Journey with Special Guest Asia at The Wharf Amphitheater 7:30 AM The Wharf Amphitheatre, 23325 Wharf Lane Orange Beach, 36561www.alwharf.com Fairhope Outdoor Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, Fairhope, 36532 The City of Fairhope will host a Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings starting May 4 and ending November 2, 2017. The market will be set up behind the Fairhope Public Library in the new parking lot 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 have children activities at 4 p.m. 251-929-1466 www.cofairhope.com Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night 8:00 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island & Greer’s Market Presents: Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. As always we encourage you to bring chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. Snack vendor will be on site during movie. Movie: Trolls www.townofdauphinisland.org Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series (Free) 8:00 PM Fairhopers Community Park, 105 S Church Street Fairhope, 36532 Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series.

Fairhope’s Fourth of July Celebration & Fireworks Display 7:30 PM Fairhope Municipal Pier & Park, 1 North Beach Road Fairhope, 36532 Fairhope’s Fourth of July Celebration & Fireworks Display. Concert at 7:30pm; fireworks at 9:00pm. www.business.eschamber.com 4th of July Fireworks - Robertsdale 9:00 PM Garrett Park, Robertsdale 4th of July Fireworks. www.robertsdale.org Town of Dauphin Island Fireworks 9:00 PM Dauphin Island Public Beach, Fourth of July fireworks will be at 9pm from the Public Beach www.townofdauphinisland.org Daphne’s Jubilee Independence Day Fireworks Display Trione Sports Park, 8271 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, 36526 More details coming- check our website for more information. www.daphneal.com Independence Day Gulf Shores Gulf Shores We’re working hard to plan this event. Please check our website for updated content. www.gulfshoresal.gov/929/Independence-DayCelebration

Wednesday July 5

Kids Night (Admission is FREE; Activity Prices Vary $5,

$7, $10)

Thinking Putty Workshop ($5) Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Times: 11:00am and 1:00pm www.facebook.com/pg/FantasyIslandToys/events/

Friday July 7

Daphne Farmers Market 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, 2305 US-98 Daphne, 36526 Local farmers with locally grown produce, baked goods and great gulf fish. www.facebook.com/daphnefarmersmarket First Friday Art Walk 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope, 36532 Fairhope First Friday Art Walk Visit our local merchants in Downtown Fairhope as they open late and highlight the art community. Art Walk happens every first Friday of each month from 6-8 p.m. Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night 8:00 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island & Greer’s Market Presents: Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. As always we encourage you to bring chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. Snack vendor will be on site during movie. Movie: Frozen www.townofdauphinisland.org

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FamilyCalendar Thinking Putty Workshop ($5) Fantasy Island Toys, 335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Times: 11:00am and 1:00pm www.facebook.com/pg/FantasyIslandToys/events/

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.

Saturday July 15

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, 9:3011:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Jump in on any Thursday! Call 251-626-1610 to register, 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne.

Dauphin Street Vault 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM, Dauphin and Joachim Street, Mobile 7th Annual Dauphin Street Vault. Located in the heart of the Mobile’s entertainment district, this pole vault competition is a lively block party. www.dauphinstreetvault.com

Wednesday July 26

Bay Bites – Food Truck Festival 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, 36603 Hosted by Mobile Baykeeper’s Young Advisory Council, Bay Bites is a food truck festival featuring a variety of different cuisine from local food trucks, craft beer, live music, and a variety of lawn games and other entertainment on the riverfront of Downtown Mobile at Cooper Riverside Park. www.mobilebaykeeper.org

Classes/Meetings Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) Offering Adoptive Family Support Group Meetings in Baldwin County the 3rd Thursday of each month. The meeting is held at 3 Circle Church, 10274 Highway 104, Fairhope. from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Parent, Youth/Teen group and childcare is available. Topic discussions by adoption professionals and ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information call 251-460-2727 or 1-800-489-1886 or www.childrensaid.org. APAC also offers free counsuling services to adoptive families. Celebration MOPS Fairhope (Meets During School Year Only) Celebration MOPS meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. at Celebration Church, 8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope. Childcare is provided and is included in the fees. There is an annual $23.95 MOPS International membership fee and $30 per semester. Call 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. Limited childcare slots are available. For information, please contact Judy Bradshaw: (251) 990-7781. Fairhope MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) (Meets During School Year Only) We meet 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. every 2nd &

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

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 is facilitated by a professional and co-facilitated by two survivors. There are no dues. For information, please email jlbarber5@bellsouth.net or call 251455-6453. South Baldwin Regional Medical Center offers the following classes: Your entire family can take part in several informative classes designed to help moms and dads welcome their special new addition to the family with more confidence. Classes cover topics including:

Having A Healthy Pregnancy Nutrition, discomforts of pregnancy, warning signs of complications, and relaxation exercises. One session. $10. Prepared Childbirth Classes (Once a week for four weeks). Cost: $30 Week 1: Begin the Stages of Labor: The labor and delivery process, signs and stages of labor, options for coping, pain management, vaginal delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 2: Delivery and Cesarean Birth: A review of complications that may arise, use of special equipment, complete the stages of labor, cesarean delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 3: New Born and Postpartum Care: Newborn appearance, caring for the newborn, infant safety, recognizing complications, relaxation exercises, and choosing a pediatrician. What to expect after delivery, understanding the physical and emotional changes to your body, and relaxation exercises. Week 4: The Art of Breast Feeding: The benefits of breast feeding for mother and baby, anatomy and physiology of the breast, how to breastfeed, and common difficulties. One session. • Tiny Toes members may enroll in Yoga, Water Aerobics and Expectant Mother Exercise classes through the Snook Family YMCA. The fee is $5 a class. There is a $3 fee for child care. There is no fee if you are already a member of the YMCA. All classes are located at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center–1613 North McKenzie Street Foley. Tuesday evenings 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Classroom A. • Please plan to attend the Healthy Pregnancy Class during your first trimester and the Prepared Childbirth Classes anytime after your 24th week of pregnancy. For more information or to enroll please call the OB Educator at 949-3676 to schedule. Gift of Life The Gift of Life is a required maternity care program for Medicaid patients or Medicaid-eligible patients. The Gift of Life Program provides a caring system of prenatal services; education and care coordination for expectant moms and their babies. For info contact 949-3781. 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 Pre-registration required.

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FamilyCalendar Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 345-7645 or 438-9590 for more information. ALS Support Group Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month from 11 a.m. to noon at Thomas Medical Center. Call 205-937-4415 for more information. Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Health Resource Center located at: 308 S. Greeno Road, Fairhope. Call 928-8650 for more information. Cancer Support Group for Women Meetings are held the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room. For more information, call Patti Huval at 209-1229. Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Group Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251- 626-6337 for more information.

Pre-admission Sessions 6 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Pre-registration required.   Sibling Class   Thomas Hospital Fitness Center (Fairhope).  Preregistration required.  Call 279-1373. 10-11 a.m.   Thomas Hospital offers the following support groups for the community:

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

Alanon (Alcoholics Anonymous) Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 800-477-1104. Alateen Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room East Tower meeting room at Thomas Hospital. Call 391-1152 for more information.

Please send your calendar events to lynn@ easternshoreparents.com! We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of these calendar events. However, you should call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

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Everything, Everything

Diary of a Wimpy Kid:

The Long Haul MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: BSexual Content: BProfanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul PG for rude humor. Anyone watching this latest entry in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid franchise will have to admit it is aptly named, because getting through it (even though the runtime is only 91 minutes) feels like a Long Haul. Trading in the cast that starred in the first three films (Dairy of a Wimpy Kid, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules and Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days) for younger models, Jason Drucker now plays Greg Heffley, the journal keeper. This tale picks up just as the family prepares for a long drive to attend the 90th birthday of Meemaw (Mimi Gould). Sadly, the only one looking forward to the party and extended family reunion is Mom (Alicia Silverstone) -- until Greg realizes they will be traveling near the location of a video game convention that he would love to attend. Using a little stealth, the tween boy figures he can sneak away from the gathering and return before anyone even knows he’s gone. With this ulterior motive, Greg straps on his seatbelt ready to endure the four-day journey. And that’s when Mom launches her next unpleasant surprise. Hoping for some family bonding time, she has decided the holiday will be techfree. As expected, she meets with flak from her oldest son Rodrick (Charlie Wright) and her cranky toddler Manny (Dylan and Wyatt Walters). But even Dad (Tom Everett Scott) really isn’t committed to handing over his devices. After being forced to comply, plus accept mom’s hand-packed lunch full of nutritious snacks, the Heffley men hit the freeway, certain things cannot get any worse. Of course, they’re wrong. From beginning to end, this road trip features one disaster after another. Highlights include adopting a pet pig, vomiting on an amusement park ride, being attacked by birds, getting stuck in the mud, and offending another family that then follows the Heffleys with angry threats. Slapstick kerfuffles, along with diaper and bathroom gags are abundant. And so are the lies the characters tell one another (children and parents alike). Unfortunately, none of the silly antics are very funny. Nor do they ever feel authentic. Gone is the charm that occasionally glimmered in some of the earlier adventures in this franchise. And although the script does eventually attempt to redeem itself with scenes of reconciliation and teamwork, it just feels like too little, too late. So, unless you’re an avid fan of the movies, or book series by Jeff Kinney upon which the script is based, you might want to steer clear of this Heffley vacation.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: B Sexual Content: C Profanity: BAlcohol / Drug Use: B+ The MPAA has rated Everything, Everything PG-13 for thematic elements and brief sensuality. Maddy Whittier (Amandla Stenberg) is a young woman with SCID (severe combined immunodeficiency), a medical condition that renders her body unable to fight off any infections. Although the illness means she must live in isolation in order to avoid contact with germs or viruses, she still enjoys stimulation through books and the internet. Her protective single mother (Anika Noni Rose), who is also a physician, provides medical care plus a state-of-the-art home to keep her environment sterilized. And she has the loving company of full-time nurse Carla (Ana de la Reguera). Really, the eighteen-year-old doesn’t want for anything, anything. However, her resignation toward having no contact with the outside world is tested when she notices the family moving in next door has a son about her age. Olly (Nick Robinson) may dress in bleak black and wear his shaggy hair with a rebellious attitude, but he has a bright smile when he sees her peering from the window. Within days the two are making eye contact as often as possible, and then begin texting back and forth. As the interaction and attraction grows, Maddy desires more. Eventually, she is even willing to risk everything, everything. What follows is a sentimental sequence of bashful meetings, facilitated by Carla, puppy-love style frolicking, and secret romantic gestures that catch the attention of Mom. When the cautious parent threatens to put an end to any more flirting with the forbidden fruit, Maddy and Olly run away together. Based on a book by Nicola Yoon, this story has all the cute and kitsch ‘tween girls swoon over – and that is exactly the biggest problem with the movie. This target audience will likely be just as naïve as the main characters presented here, and fail to recognize the negative consequences associated with Maddy and Olly’s behaviors. And it doesn’t help that the film never shows the dangers of lying, using a credit card irresponsibly and engaging in an “unprotected” sexual relationship (implied after a steamy scene of passionate kissing). In fact, the plot suggests it’s the adults who are out of touch with reality. Other content of concern is a few swear words and scatological slang, reference to a father with a drinking problem, the depiction of a squabble that ends with punches being thrown, and domestic abuse. While it is natural for young adults to want to exert their independence, the 18-year-old couple depicted here are reckless, even if the script calls their actions brave. After reflecting on the film’s messages and trying to come up with something positive to say, I really could think of nothing, nothing.

What Parents Need to Know...

Violence: Slapstick antics are pervasive in this script about family discord. A character is frequently mocked and shamed in a video that goes viral on social media. Prankster kids get reprimanded by a police officer. Rats and cockroaches are seen in a shabby hotel. Birds attack people and they get covered in droppings. A van gets stuck and splatters mud all over a group of characters. Luggage falls off the back of a trailer causing road hazards. A boat trailer falls of the hitch of a moving vehicle while a person is aboard the vessel. Sexual Content: The movie is full of crude bathroom humor, including diapers, smelly bowel movements, urinating into a bottle (with sound effects), and eavesdropping on a stranger using the bathroom. Mild sexual innuendo is heard. A character gets sick and his vomit lands on another man’s face. Women are seen in revealing clothing. A boy is seen wearing only his underwear. A mom shows off pictures of her naked babies. Profanity: Terms of deity are used as expletives. Sexual slurs and name-calling occurs. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. Eastern Shore Parents I June 2017

What Parents Need to Know...

Violence: A father and son have a quarrel, including an exchange of punches and muffled discussion. A medical emergency is depicted without any explicit detail. References are made to marital discord and abuse. Characters lie to one another, and when these deceptions are discovered they feel betrayed. Sexual Content: An unmarried young couple (both are just 18) are seen undressing each other and getting into bed, unplanned sexual relations are strongly implied, no consequences relating to this decision are included. A young man and woman kiss passionately. A young man and woman are seen in swimwear. Profanity: A single scatological term is heard, and other mild profanity is used infrequently. Alcohol / Drug Use: A father’s alcohol problem results in a scene of domestic abuse and other family strife. Injections in a medical context are depicted. 96

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HIGH

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PRE-HIGH BETWEEN

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120 80

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KNOW YOUR NUMBERS Untreated hypertension can cause serious health consequences or death

prevention is key! • • • • • •

Reduce salt intake Eat more fruits and vegetables Don’t smoke Be physically active Maintain a healthy body weight Monitor blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol