Eastern Shore Parents Magazine May 2018

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The Region’s

Leader

in Births

At USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital, more families trust us to deliver their babies than any other hospital in the region. With that trust comes our commitment to health care focused on the needs of infants, children and women.

usahealthsystem.com

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Our highly trained team of physicians and nurses will give you and your baby the best care close to home. And if your baby needs more specialized care, you won’t have to be separated. We have the area’s only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Our promise to you is our mission: We help people lead longer, better lives.

4/6/18 12:01 PM


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Congratulations to

Haedyn Kerrigan Leverette Benn winners of the first annual “Share Your Smile Alabama Department of Public photo Health Oral Health Office with Alabama”contest

To have a winning smile like Haedyn and Kerrigan,

start out young. Have your child’s first dental visit by age one. Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children in the United States. Since the mouth is the “gateway” to the body, oral health affects overall health. Schedule a preventive dental visit for children ages 1 to 17 years to help insure: • a healthy mouth • a healthy child • a healthy adult • a healthy life

alabamapublichealth.gov/oralhealth 3

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May2018

Volume 10 Number 12

Columns

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42

6 Publisher’s Note Lynn Knighton

8 Living With Children

Got a Graduate?

Find eight great gift ideas your high school graduate is sure to love.

John Rosemond

Homeschool Cool

How technology changes the homeschooling equation.

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54 72 74

14 Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

38 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

40 Dave Says Dave Ramsey

44 Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

Homeschool Guide

Our listing shares local and national resources for your homeschooling journey.

Time Out for Mom!

10 little luxuries to give yourself so you feel celebrated every day...not only on Mother’s Day.

68 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

72 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

On The Cover Miles Thomas (17), son of Mollie and Jason Thomas and brother to Jules. Proud grandparents are Janet and Steve Biggs and Betty and Perry Thomas. Miles plans to attend The University of Alabama in the fall and study Chemical Engineering. He enjoys basketball, baseball, and weight lifting.

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Departments 10

Bits and Pieces 16

School Bits 74

Family Calendar 88

Movie Reviews

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Publisher’sNote The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source

On any given morning you can see men and women out for their daily run. They look so peaceful, as if they don’t have a care in the world. I want to be one of those people. When I see a sticker on a car commemorating the driver’s accomplishment of a halfmarathon or even a marathon I can’t help but think, “How in the world did they do that?!” I have dreams of one day being able to put one of those stickers on my car, but for now, it is fun run city for this chic. In my daydreams I imagine I would start out strong with “Eye of the Tiger” playing through my head, running focused and determined past the spectators. Along the home stretch my family would be on the sidelines cheering me on, and eventually I would cross the finish line to the “Chariots of Fire” theme song. Yes, that is the dream. The reality I am afraid may look quite different. Sure, I may start out with the “Eye of the Tiger”, but the ending would be more like me gasping and crawling over the finish line to “Jesus Take the Wheel”. As we enter May, I think we all feel the struggle of getting to the finish line of another school year. We started strong, but the days, weeks and months of packing lunches, homework and the overall school routine has worn us all down. Whether you are a teacher, student or parent, I think we are all ready for summer break. Sure, we still have work and activities to schedule, but I do hope you will take some time for yourself this summer to rejuvenate. Taking time for yourself will refresh you and make you a better parent, along with letting the children see you as a person...not just Mom or Dad. Time Out For Mom, by Christina Katz, focuses on just that. She gives moms (and dads) suggestions of things they can do to feel special and pampered. Speaking of celebrations, I would like to take a moment to congratulate the class of 2018! These students have worked very hard to get to this point and I know all the parents, grandparents and teachers are very proud of them. If you are looking for the perfect gift to commemorate this occasion, then check out 8 Great Gift Ideas for your High School Graduate, by Pam Molnar. This month you will also find our annual Vacation Bible School Guide detailing local VBS opportunities for summer! Can’t wait for summer and looking for some family friendly activities to participate in this month? Make sure you check out the Family Calendar! In addition to our other regular columns and school news, Eastern Shore Parents is excited to announce a new column from Common Sense Media called Parenting, Media and Everything in Between. Common Sense Media is a resource I have personally used for years. My family refers to their website for information on movies, books, games and more. We hope you will enjoy this new monthly column! Congratulations Class of 2018! And to all the moms, Happy Mother’s Day!

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Christa Weinberg Contributing Writers Mark Gregston Malia Jacobson Christina Katz Pam Molnar Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Robert L. Rux, M.D. Gerry Paige Smith

Cover Photography Stephanie Hanway www.StephanieHanwayPhotography.com

President Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com Advertising Opportunities Lynn Knighton Danielle Nicholas ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099 Accounts Manager Eleanor Williams Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us online at www.easternshoreparents.com

Lynn

lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

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.

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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.

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Gulf Coast Families Fevers, bumps and earaches are all part of being a kid. But when your child faces something more serious, you need a team of experts to offer the latest advances. That’s why The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart, a part of Ascension, is now affiliated with the Southeast’s leading academic health center, University of Florida Health.

Theresa Roca, MD

James Burns, MD

Matthew Furst, MD

Bevin Weeks, MD

Berrin Ergun-Longmire, MD Pediatric Endocrinology University of Florida

Pediatric Gastroenterology University of Florida

Pediatric Gastroenterology University of Florida

Brent Thompson, PA

Debra Cohen, MD

Jeffrey Schwartz, MD

Amanda Strobel, MD

Adolescent Medicine University of Florida

Pediatric Cardiology University of Florida

Pediatric Cardiology University of Florida

Matthew Steiner, MD Pediatric Cardiology University of Florida

Together, we’ve hired 20 new doctors, who live and work full time on the Gulf Coast, caring for the region’s smallest patients and their parents. Find a physician, and see our patients’ stories: sacred-heart.org/childrenshospital

Pediatric Cardiology University of Florida

/sacredheartchildrenshospital

Robert Dillard, MD

Alan Sacks, MD

/studerchildrens

m PEDIATRIC SPECIALTIES

Pediatric Gastroenterology Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Sacred Heart Medical Group University of Florida University of Florida University of Florida

David Shapiro, DO

Pediatric Infectious Diseases University of Florida

Edward Kohaut, MD

Matthew Pearson, MD

Pediatric Nephrology University of Florida

Pediatric Neurosurgery Sacred Heart Medical Group

Bryan Weidner, MD

C. Gerry Henderson, MD

Robert Huang, MD

Gulnur Com, MD

Don Nakayama, MD

Pediatric Orthopedics Sacred Heart Medical Group

Pediatric Pulmonology University of Florida

Pediatric Surgery Sacred Heart Medical Group

Mark Wehry, MD

Jamie Thorn, ARNP

Donna Williams, ARNP

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Jonathan Papic, MD

Pediatric Surgery Sacred Heart Medical Group

850-462-9496

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Pediatric Surgery Sacred Heart Medical Group

Pediatric Urology University of Florida

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Pediatric Urology Sacred Heart Medical Group Practicing in Destin

Pediatric Urology Sacred Heart Medical Group

Pediatric Urology Sacred Heart Medical Group

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine 3/28/18 11:19 AM


LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Child Easily Distracted in School Q: Our son, age 8, did fine in school in first grade, but has struggled in second. We’ve taken your advice and not helped much with his homework other than occasional and brief “consultations.” He’s making average grades but his second-grade teacher – she’s fairly young, by the way – tells us that he is actually slightly behind in both reading and math. We met recently with the school counselor, school psychologist, and his teacher, all of whom recommended that he be tested for ADHD (they told us that he’s easily distracted) and a learning disability. We really don’t want to go down that road, but they’re making it seem like that’s the only responsible thing for us to do. What are your thoughts on this?

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

A:

I agree. You really don’t want to go down that road. In the first place, the fact that an eight-year-old boy is “struggling” in school and “slightly” behind in reading and math, yet making decent grades does not, in my estimation, indicate a serious problem. The bell-shaped curve – which schools seem to have forgotten (or conveniently ignore) – predicts that some otherwise normal (problem-free) children will perform below the academic mean. Private schools try to weed out children who will bring down their test scores; public schools cannot. So, in public school, one is likely to find a greater proportion of kids who “struggle.” Fur-

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thermore, a disproportionate number of the kids in question are likely to be boys – and boys tend to be distractible. Two things jump out at me: first, that your son didn’t have problems in grade one; second, that the second-grade teacher is inexperienced. It may well be that your son’s struggles say more about her than they do him. I would be inclined to give him the benefit of the doubt and simply recommend that you hire a tutor – ideally, an older, veteran teacher – to work with him during the summer and bring him up to academic speed before he goes back to school in the fall. The simplest and most obvious explanation for a problem of this sort is usually the correct explanation; furthermore, the simplest and most obvious solution is usually the best solution.

Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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Pirates Cove 12th Annual Autism FUNraiser

The Annual Illuminating Autism FUNraiser at Pirates Cove is a three-day event, held June 1 - 3. The event offers food, fun and live music on the sandy shores of the laid-back beach restaurant. During our 12th Annual FUNraiser we will draw down on two 2018 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 PM – 3:00 PM. Cover is $10.

White Linen Night at Eastern Shore Art Center

Dress in your favorite white linen outfit and join the Eastern Shore Art Center on May 17 from 7 – 10 PM for White Linen Night where art will take center stage. Enjoy music by The Red Clay Strays, local fare from your favorite restaurants and a special beer brewed and labeled exclusively for White Linen Night by Fairhope Brewing Company. An exciting live auction will top off the evening and allow you to take home a special piece from a local artist. With our "Diamond in a Glass" opportunity you could even win a diamond from Stowe's Jewelers. All proceeds will benefit the Eastern Shore Art Center's ongoing mission to educate and promote the arts. Tickets are $75 per person or you may purchase a table for 10 for $700. Purchase your tickets today at www.esartcenter.org/our-events/white-linen-night. Only a limited number of tickets will be sold so purchase your ticket today!

Help Fill the Plate of our Neighbors in Need!

Prodisee Pantry is asking for your help to fill the plate of our neighbors in need! During the Month of MAY, Red plates will be popping up all across the county at banks, churches, businesses, small groups, civic clubs, etc. Each plate has a value of about $100. One nickel, one dollar, ten dollars or one hundred dollars at a time, the community will fill the plate of our neighbors in need. We are asking the community to donate what they can when they see the red plates. It costs just $20 to provide a family with $120 worth of groceries. Each family receives fresh produce, meats, bread, staple grocery items and onsite access to dozens of other supportive programs. Our caring volunteers can plug a family into onsite representatives for free legal services, SNAP (food stamps), counseling, employers, budget help, medical assistance, GED classes and so much more. We love hearing families say “I came for food, but left with… a job… a voucher for school uniforms for my kids… housing help and more! Our facility has been dubbed, “A HUB OF HOPE!” For more information on Fill the Plate and Prodisee Pantry visit www.prodiseepantry.org or call 251-626-1720.

5th Annual Fairhope Girls' Night Out

Fairhope’s Girls Night Out is set for Thursday evening, May 10, and will include great specials and fun activities at participating shops, such as trunk shows, giveaways, and refreshments. “All for a $20 registration fee, you’ll receive a fun Comfort Colors T-shirt, shopping tote ‘swag bag’, a $10 food voucher, and an exclusive Girls Night Out coupon booklet with special deals available that night and throughout the weekend, May 10-11. This year’s event is the same weekend of Mother’s Day so we think it’s a great way to give mom or grandma a special treat. We saw many people out shopping and having fun with two or three generations of family last year,” said Alex Robinson, director of the Downtown Merchants’ Association. Tickets can be purchased at M&F Casuals, The Cat’s Meow, The Colony Shop, the James P. Nix Center, or online at www.downtownfairhope.com. Participants can also register the day of the event, starting at 4 p.m. at the Fairhope Welcome Center at 20 North Section Street. For more information, call 251-929-1466.

Baldwin County Boss Babes

Baldwin County Boss Babes presents our newest market, The 2018 Spring Fling Vendor and Craft Show, Saturday, May 12 from 10 AM – 4 PM at Baldwin County Coliseum! Say "Happy Mother's Day" by allowing Mom to choose a gift from 150 vendors! We will also have those one of a kind wedding or baby shower gifts, Father's Day gifts or even just a gift for yourself! While you are here, grab lunch from one of our multiple food vendors! The first 250 customers will receive a free shopping bag! All customers who complete our survey at the event will be entered to win an awesome gift basket full of goodies from our vendors.

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

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Annual Taste of the Towns

The annual Taste of the Towns event is scheduled for Thursday evening, May 10th from 6 – 8 PM at the Five Rivers Delta Resource Center located on the east end of the Causeway. This year’s event is excited to offer a fun-filled evening benefitting the children of our area. Over 20 restaurants will be participating with taste venues galore, live music and silent auction items. Tickets are $30 in advance or can be purchased for $35 the day of the event at the door. Tickets are available online, www. daphnespanishfortkiwanis.org at the following locations: BBVA Compass Bank in Fairhope, Riviera Utilities in Daphne, Lad Drago’s State Farm Insurance office in Spanish Fort.

Crawfish Cook-off 2018

The Annual Crawfish Bash has evolved into the Crawfish Cook Off! Join the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce in Blackburn Park in Downtown Bay Minette on Friday, June 8 for a Crawfish Event like no other. General Admission tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children under 10 with a paid adult; Kick off Summer with a family friendly good time that includes a variety of styles of Crawfish from cooking teams, live music, kid's activities, and so much more! Gates open at 5:30 PM. For more information on the event, call 251.937.5665 ext. 3.

Children’s Cup Regatta Returns to Fairhope Yacht Club

The ninth annual Children’s Cup Regatta sets sail on May 12, to benefit patients from the Alabama Gulf Coast treated at Children’s of Alabama. Sailing enthusiasts and friends in Mobile and Baldwin counties are invited to enjoy a day of sailboat racing at the Fairhope Yacht Club, located at 101 Volanta Avenue. A family-friendly event, guests are invited to watch the races free-of-charge beginning at 12:30 p.m. Throughout the afternoon, guests can bid on silent auction items and enjoy barbecue plates, a cash bar, and live music from Doc Rogers and the Rock Dodgers. The Cruisers Crawl and kayak races return this year. Meant for boaters who don’t want to sail, but want to take their boats out on the water, the Cruisers Crawl includes a professional photo of each boat in action, as well as dinner, T-shirt and a goodie bag. Registration starts at 4 p.m., costs $50 per boat, and is open to all classes. The kayak races kick off at 9 a.m. Registration is $25 per boat. The kids’ activity area opens at 4 p.m. and features a waterslide, arts and crafts, games, and the Rain Gutter Regatta. Children’s of Alabama patients and their families in the area are invited to attend the Regatta. A few boats will be available to take former patients out to watch the sailing action close-up. For more information or to register online, visit http://give.childrensal.org/ regatta2018, or call Kerrie Benson at (251) 610-4969.

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Fairhope Rotary Steak Cookoff

Since 2005, The Fairhope Rotary Steak Cook-off has brought to Fairhope a unique combination of searing Western BBQ-style steaks, Mardi Gras Carnival atmosphere and a chance to “see and be seen” at one of the most fun annual events hosted on the Eastern Shore. Teams test their epicurean grilling skills on prime rib eye steaks. The event kicks off on Friday evening when the merchants along South Bancroft Street between the campus of Coastal Alabama Community College and adjacent to Fairhope’s French Quarter shutter their stores and relinquish the street to every manner of wood- and charcoalfired grills. It is like being invited to the most prestigious tailgate event and then getting to sample everyone’s steaks, while you enjoy their salads and baked potatoes, drink their beer or wine, and dance without having to worry that you are missing the game. This year's event will be held Friday, May 11, in downtown Fairhope. Advanced admission tickets are $50 and may be purchased from any club member or at Baron's Inn, Lyons Share, and Piggly Wiggly in Fairhope. Tickets are also available at the door for $60. For more information visit www.fairhopesteak.org or call 251-929-8400.

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

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Teach Them Diligently Convention Coming to Mobile

Teach Them Diligently Convention is thrilled to be coming to Mobile for the first time! Last year tens of thousands of people attended Teach Them Diligently conventions across the U.S. Families love the camaraderie, energy, and encouragement of this homeschool event. There is something for everyone— moms, dads, littles, and teens—and there are unique sessions and opportunities specifically designed for families with special needs. Teach them Diligently, a Christian homeschool event, will be held May 3 – 5, at the Mobile Convention Center. For more information or to register visit www.teachthemdiligently.net. Use discount code PARENTS10 to save $10 off your registration.

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Harvest Nights at Weeks Bay Plantation

Organic blueberry “pickin” season is here! Weeks Bay Plantation is delighted to announce the 2018 Harvest Nights family-fun series. The series will kick off with a Cinco De Mayo party, Saturday, May 5. Harvest Nights will run for seven consecutive weeks and will end on Saturday, June 16! Each event will offer organic blueberry picking, live music from area musicians, food trucks, a farmers’ market, area artisans, kid-friendly activities and more! Bring a blanket and your own cooler to enjoy an evening under the stars! Admission is free for berry pickers and a $5 charge for non-pickers 13 years of age and older. Delicious organic blueberries are $8 a pound. Please bring a non-perishable food item with you to donate to Prodisee Pantry. Weekly berry picking begins April 18 and is available to the public, Wednesday through Saturday 7 a.m. - 12 p.m. For more information, call 251-279-8745, email info@weeksbayplantation.com or visit our website: www.weeksbayplantation.com.

Publix Grandman Triathlon and Jubilee Kids Triathlon

Mobile Baykeeper is hosting the 14th Annual Publix Grandman Triathlon at the Fairhope Pier on Saturday, June 2 starting at 7 a.m. Racers begin the race with a jump off the pier into Mobile Bay and swim 1/3mile to the shore. Following the swim, racers bike 18 miles, beginning up a steep hill before riding through the streets of downtown Fairhope and miles of rolling countryside. The race to the finish line consists of a 3.1 mile run alongside scenic Mobile Bay. Registration is open to individual and team racers. Additionally, 150 volunteers are required to make the event run as smoothly as possible. To register or volunteer, visit www.thegrandman.com or call 251-433-4229 for more information. The Publix Jubilee Kids Triathlon will be held Sunday, June 3, starting at 7:30 a.m. at Fairhope Municipal Pier. It is open to children ages 7-15 and features four different categories according to age group: Mullets (Ages 13-15), Flounders (Ages 11-12), Crabs (Ages 9-10), and Shrimps (Ages 7-8). To register or volunteer, please visit www.mobilebaykeeper.org/jubileekidstriathlon or call 251-433-4229 for more information. Proceeds for both events benefit Mobile Baykeeper and myTeam Triumph: Southern Alabama.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

Beach Emergencies! I had a mom come in the other day and ask me a really important question. “Why do babies eat sand?“ I sat there for a moment and finally had to admit that I didn’t know. I guess it will be one of those mysteries of the universe that might never be answered. But, she did have some beach questions I could answer, and we talked about some of the serious hazards at the beach. Besides the obvious sunscreen, shade for babies, keeping hydrated, etc., the most serious topics that came up were undertow and jellyfish. Today, we will talk about these topics and more as we explore, (“Jaws” theme music playing) BEACH EMERGENCIES! The most beautiful natural treasure we have here in Baldwin County is our beaches. But with them come some dangers in the form of wildlife and the surf. First of all, it is really important to understand the flag system. Green is good! Yellow means some moderate surf and currents, so take precaution. Red and double red means absolutely no swimming. Finally purple means dangerous wildlife

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

present (ex. sharks, jellyfish, etc.) There are also a few areas where you cannot swim and that includes the pass between Little Lagoon and the gulf on West Beach. The undertow in the Gulf of Mexico is very strong and unfortunately is responsible for multiple fatalities per year. The undertow is worse in rough weather, and even the strongest swimmer is no match for it. Be sure to swim at a beach with a lifeguard present and stay away from piers and jetties. If you are caught in an undertow, as much as you want to, don’t panic. The most important step is to swim sideways out of the current and parallel to the beach. Once you feel you are not being pulled, then swim at an angle towards the beach but away from the undertow. If you are unable to swim out of the current sideways, then relax and let the current take you out until it stops. Then swim back to shore. Be sure to wave your arms and attract attention to other beachers if you are unable to swim back in. If the undertow wasn’t enough for you, we have to consider the wildlife on the beach as well. Be sure to watch the local news and look for purple flags indicating recent issues with sharks and/or jellyfish.

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Luckily, shark attacks are rare, and the most common issue is jellyfish. If you or your child are stung by a jellyfish, immediately wash off the area with saltwater, but do not use tap or pool water—it will make the sting worse. Liberally spray down the area with vinegar to neutralize the pain (oftentimes, lifeguards will have these at their chairs, but it’s a good idea to keep some in the beach bag).Then, apply shaving cream to the sting and remove with either a razor or credit card. This sounds crazy, but it is an efficient way to remove any remaining tentacles from the body without you touching them with your hands. Spray the area again with the vinegar and then use ibuprofen or acetaminophen and some ice to help relieve symptoms. Most symptoms resolve in 2448 hours, but if they don’t, seek help from a medical provider. Ah, the joys of summer. Baseball, swimming, going to the beach, getting stung by jellyfish—it’s all part of a week’s vacation, right? And be good and use 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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Our full service orthodontist practice offers treatments for all ages as well as Sleep Apnea and TMJ treatments. Consultations are always complimentary and we offer flexible appointment and interest free payment plans. With three locations to serve you, there is always something to smile about at Glass Orthodontics.

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Autauga County Schools

“Welcoming to Spring” Musicale at Westminster Village

Spanish Fort HS French Club Visits New Orleans

The Spanish Fort HS French Club took 87 students to New Orleans for their annual spring field trip. The students ate lunch in the quarter and participated in a scavenger hunt.

Gus with Ties Learn About 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

Bay Minette Elementary School “Guys With Ties” enjoyed a guest speaker at their most recent meeting. Mr. Ben Hansert, president of North Baldwin Infirmary, spoke to the boys about the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. He outlined the seven habits and discussed with the group how practicing those habits would help them in their daily lives and lead to professionalism. The topic was fortuitous because BMES is a Leader In Me school and is in the third year of practicing the seven habits. Pictured l-r: Guys With Ties Club at BMES--Front Row: Jasper Nero, Patrick January, Jackson Paul, Brayden Vinson. Middle Row: Mr. Ben Hansert, Xavier Evans, Joaquin Crook, Jakarlin Coleman, Luke Garrett, Ian Hamilton, and teacher sponsor Anthony Roley. Back Row: Alfonso Griffin, Daniel Austin, Devarin Faulkner, Daylan Martin, Chase Cardwell, Jijavious Williams, Kendreaus Nelson, Dakota Jones.

Students of Baldwin County Music Teachers Association members Hannah Roberts and Vincentine Williams gave a “Welcoming to Spring” concert for the residents of Westminster Village. Residents were entertained with a wide variety of music, performed on piano and flute. Standing from left to right: Holly Yazdi, Elizabeth Sebastian, Evan Ren, Blake Smith. Seated: Marygrace Sebastian and Lucy Mae Vesely.

Orange Beach 6th Graders Thrilled about Book Donations

Orange Beach Elementary 6th graders are relishing a gift of a fascinating new set of Scholastic books for their guided reading lessons with their teacher, Mrs. Kistler. The books were purchased by a kind donor at the Literacy of Patrons Event held in December. The event, sponsored by the Baldwin County Education Coalition, showcased plans for literacy instruction to community members throughout the county. Donations are continuing through the BCEC website at: https://interland3. donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E14647&id=88. Shown above with some of their new book sets are Ensley Keel, Falyn Beebe, Kimberlyn Callahan, Chandler Wilson, Brooklyn Ward and Eli Lynn. These students are hopeful that they will have time to devour all of their new books before the school year ends and are very thankful to their donor and BCEC!

3rd Quarter Daphne East Crown of Character Winners

The following 5th grade Daphne East Elementary students received the Junior Auxiliary of the Eastern Shore Crown of Character Award for the 2nd quarter: (Front row left to right): John Greene, Emi Quintero, Bryce Kerchoff, Sawyer Bobe, Reese Dube, Alexis McCovery and Madison Carey. (Back row left to right): Hannah Newport, Shane Burns, Zoe Nader, Elea Bonnard, Kyle Durgin, Bradley Thomas and Blake Cornell. Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

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Foley HS Art Students Paint Awards for BBQ and Blue Event

Foley High School students from TJ Smith's and Richard McCracken’s art classes painted the awards for the winners of the BBQ and Blues event. The awards are produced by Vulcan Signs in Foley and then brought to the school for the students to add their own creative design. This was the second year the students painted the awards, and it is a HUGE hit with the festival sponsors, participants, and those who attend the festival. Please congratulate these students on their work when you see them, and congratulate TJ and Richard for their efforts in honing the skills of these students. This is a great partnership of our school with a community event. Seated L-R: Chloe Speegle, Mia Fanning, Lily Blankenship, Jasmine Baker, Asia Garner, Jana Widener, Alexis Walascek, Kaitlyn McDaniel (Kaitlyn is holding her creation and that of Ileana Pabon who is not pictured.) Standing L-R: Juan Dominguez-Vulcan, Inc., Angela Nguyen, Cierra Ryan, Hannah Campbell, Amanda Sailor, Versace Jones, Kayla Pickens, Gale Croft-South Baldwin Chamber Foundation.

Silverhill Elementary’s Character Leaders of the Month

Silverhill Elementary announced their March Character Leaders of the Month. Pictured here are the March leaders: Gabriel Roldan, Elijah Tingle, Becca Riley, Krimsyn Ladnier, Carter Townley, Jessica Smith, Caiden Barnes, Sherlyn Rangel Fabian, Matthew Manning, Raelynn Holley, Leighton Peturis, Sailor Creel, Nehemiah Canceleno, Bradley Everett, Maria Hardy, Trevor Sterling, Emma Gomillion, Wyatt Davis, Mallory Rice, Brandon Lopez, Brooklyn Kyzar, Maggie McNeil.

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LIFETIME NOW ENROLLING Call 251-929-0011 or visit BayshoreChristian.org to learn more. 17

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Autauga County Schools

Fairhope Middle School Claims Soccer Titles

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The Fairhope Middle School girls and boys soccer teams were both crowned the Baldwin County champions of the 2018 season. Coached by Laura Ruth Hunter, the girls team had an overall 14-1 season record and defeated Spanish Fort in the championship game. The team members included Allie Adams, Anna Grace Allen, Ally Bailey, Maggie Delamore, Madeline Dicksey, Nyla Duffy, Kylie Fulkerson, Kailey Hoffman, Emma Kuehl, Lauren Newland, Juliette Sandefur, Addison Smith, Emily Smith, Sadie Watson, Pierson Weaver, and Vivan Webster. The boys team, coached by De Freeman, had an overall 15-0 season record and were victorious over Foley in the championship game. Members of the team included Will Yokel, Dustin Weinberg, Will Watson, Hayden Saltz, Charlie Ruiz, Glenn Patrick, Tony Palumbo, Zackary Olmstead, Christian Notarangelo, Stephen Laraway, William Knox, Ellis Ikerman, Jake Garner, Luke Freer, Dylan Freeman, Miller Defnall, Ismael Cerna-Castillo, Zack Ball, Ethan Andress, Brooks Brasfield, Ballard Sweat, and Edward Witherington. Congratulations to the tournament MVP players: Nyla Duffy and Edward Witherington.

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Daphne East Kindergartners Visit Battleship

Kindergarten students from Felicia Bagley’s class at Daphne East Elementary, Elise Lauderdale & Gaby Lugo enjoyed touring the Battleship.

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Gulf Shores Middle School Girls Make All-County Soccer

Congratulations to Emily West and Mackenzie Morrison for making All-County Soccer! Athletes are pictured with Coach Roach.

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Autauga County Schools

St. Michael Student Serves as Principal for the Day

On March 26, James Zapata was “Principal for the day”...thanks to a generous donor who purchased this privilege in the silent auction at Cardinals in the Courtyard! James had the privilege of using principal Weber’s office and met with different staff, led our assembly, observed classes, met with students, made announcements throughout the day, and ended the day with dismissing class 5 minutes early!

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

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

Bayside Academy Senior StudentAthlete Amber Mason Signs National Letter of Intent

Bayside Academy senior student-athlete Amber Mason signed a National Letter of Intent (NLI) to run track at Spring Hill College in Mobile. The signing occurred during a special ceremony held April 12 on the school’s campus. Amber was All-State in track and field five times. She has set two track records at Bayside: a pentathlon score of 3591 and a heptathlon score of 2826. A multi-sport athlete, she also has played on Bayside’s Lady Admirals volleyball team for the past two years and during that time contributed to the team’s 15th and 16th consecutive Alabama High School Athletic Association 3A State Championships. Bayside Academy Track and Field/Cross Country Coach Joe Swagart describes Amber as a respectful model athlete who has a great life perspective and consistently displays a willingness to grow and try new things. Amber Mason is pictured seated with her parents, Dean and Traci Mason, and her track coach, Joe Swagart (standing).

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Fairhope Middle School’s Miss Pirate Princess Pageant

Fairhope Middle School crowned its 2018 Miss Pirate Princess at their 10th annual pageant. The pageant, under the direction of Mrs. Kelly Lanicek, serves as a fundraising event for the school. The 39 contestants participated in a panel interview and an evening gown competition, where they were judged on poise and appearance. Kennedy Adams, an 8th grade student at FMS, was crowned the 2018 Miss Pirate Princess. The Miss Pirate Princess serves as an ambassador for Fairhope Middle School, as well as a role model for her peers. Miss Pirate Princess: Kennedy Adams; 8th Grade Princess: Laney Parks; 7th Grade Princess: Sarah Lu Priester; Most Poised: Leah Kathryn Peacock; Best Interview: Emory Kate Golson; Most Photogenic: Renie Kennedy; Miss Congeniality: Koestler Anderton; Top 10 Winners: Kennedy Adams, Laney Parks, Emory Kate Golson, Leah Kathryn Peacock, Cameron Herzog, Sarah Lu Priester. Elyse Hughes, Josie Howell, Braedon Gulledge, Renie Kennedy. Entertainment was provided by Victoria Whatley, a FMS 8th grade student. Pictured: Kennedy Adams.

GSES Autism Awareness— Always be Kind

Great words to live by every day! We’re celebrating differences during Autism Awareness Month at Gulf Shores Elementary School. Pictured front row l to r: Geer McKee, Gage Boyd, Lee Marshall, Jack Calvert, and Cal Creel. Back row l to r: Xander Taylor, Jacob Wyatt, and Kenny Sanders.

Bay Minette 6th Grader Wins DAR Essay Contest

Bay Minette’s Timmy Doerr won first place in the Alabama Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution American History Essay Contest. His topic was “World War I: Remembering the War to End All Wars,” sponsored by the Fort Bowyer Chapter. Jan Pryor presented the award to Timmy at the state luncheon at The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center. Timmy is a sixth grader at St. Patrick School and is the son of Tim and Sarah Doerr and Jamie Doerr.

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Robertsdale Spring Pep Rally

Autauga County Schools

Robertsdale High School JV cheerleaders helped kick off spring sports at the spring pep rally. Pictured back row: Brandalyn Sherrer, Coach Kroll, Emily Crandall, Hannah McKenzie. Middle row: Madison Davis, Gillian Langham, Kelly Rodgers, Caroline Limpscomb. Front row: Kennedy Saxon, Caylen Campbell, Maddie Cooper, Kyla Carpenter, Cadi Walker.

Christ the King Students Visit State Capitol

Christ the King Catholic school fourth grade classes recently enjoyed their annual trip to the State Capitol in Montgomery. The students visited the Archives Museum, the Capitol building, complete with a tour from State Auditor, Mr. Ziegler, the State House of Representatives, and Old Alabama Towne. The students had a fun filled day learning about Alabama's past and progress.

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at Eastern Shore Baptist Church June 18-22 from 8:30 a.m. -12 noon Learn how God empowers us to live lives that glorify Him! Register online today at myesbc.net Questions? Call Will Haynes at 251-626-5550.

We can't wait to see you!

Everyone K5 through rising 6th grade is invited!

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Bayshore Christian School Wins 27 Awards at Latin Competition

The Alabama Junior Classical League (AJCL) is an association of secondary school students and teachers in Alabama devoted to the study of Classics. The mission of the AJCL is to encourage an interest in and an appreciation of the language, literature, and culture of ancient Greece and Rome and to impart an understanding of the debt of our own culture to that of Classical antiquity. Each year, teams from schools across the state compete to demonstrate their prowess in the Classics at AJCL’s Latin Competition. This year, Bayshore Christian School sent a team of students in the 9th & 10th grades to Birmingham to compete in several of the competition’s events. BCS students won an impressive 27 awards in categories such as athletics, academics, art, and mythology. Additionally, 10th grader Lana Smooth was elected to statewide office of AJCL Treasurer. BCS is so proud of all of their students’ hard work in preparing for this competition.

Preparing to Receive Holy Communion at Christ the King

Christ the King Catholic School second grade students made banners with their families as they prepared for their First Holy Communion on Sunday, April 29. Each banner is created and personalized by each student as a keepsake of this special sacrament in their lives.

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Bay Minette MS Wins Battle of the Books

Bay Minette Middle School returned to the winners’ circle for the annual Battle of the Books competition. This marks the fourth time for BMMS to win the trophy. Prior wins occurred in 2013, 2015 and 2016. Delta Elementary won in the inaugural battle in 2012 and again in 2014 and Bay Minette Elementary won last year. Rounding out the 2018 winners included: Perdido School, second place; Bay Minette Elementary, third place; and Delta Elementary, fourth place. Their team sponsors include Kathy Wright, BMMS; Rhonda Campbell, Delta; Gail Richerson, BMES and Trachy Miller, Perdido. The North Baldwin Battle of the Books is an annual reading competition open to all fifth to eighth grade students in the Baldwin County High School feeder pattern. Participating schools read chapter books provided by a grant from the North Baldwin Coalition for Excellence in Education. This year's titles included: “Indian in the Cupboard”, “The Raft”, “Ms. Bixby's Last Day”, “The Moves Make the Man”, and “A Year Down Yonder”. Throughout the school year, the students discuss and study the 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 question and answer competition held each spring at Baldwin County High School Library. Students must answer questions involving literacy skills, vocabulary and character pop-up questions. Trachy Miller, who helps coordinate the Battle of the Books, praised all the participants and local businesses who support this annual event. She said all participating students receive a Battle of the Books t-shirt, an individual reading medal, enjoy a picnic lunch, and are treated to an afternoon of skating on competition day. In addition to NBCEE, additional Battle of the Books sponsors include Piggly Wiggly, Stockton Five Arts Club, Strickland Orthodontics, and Tillery & Tyrell DMD. She also extended thanks to Kristy Weatherford and Betsy Long at the BCHS library who assist with the project each year. Judges included Joanna Bailey, Director of Bay Minette Public Library; Tina Covington, North Baldwin Coalition for Excellence in Education; and David Cox, Baldwin County School Board.

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Fairhope Middle School SGA Remembers

Members of the Fairhope Middle School Student Government Association remembered the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting victims on March 14th. During morning announcements, SGA members read the names of each victim and lead a moment of silence in their memory. The members also prepared posters about each of the victims; they are displayed on the windows of the FMS library. SGA is sponsored by Mrs. Mary Kathryn Bishop and Mrs. Amanda Cushman.

Bay Minette Elementary School held their annual Family Night recently and used the occasion to inform parents and the community about the progress of the Leader In Me initiative. The Leader In Me model that the school is following seeks to develop leadership qualities in every student and give them opportunities to use those skills in a real world way. Student leaders were in charge of the program and they shined. Pictured l-r: Student leaders Griffin Davison, William Walker, and Parker Roley lead the Pledge of Allegiance.

OBES Sixth Grade Olympic Math Project

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Mrs. Cleere’s sixth grade students discovered just how fast the Olympic Athletes in PyeongChang were traveling. Each pair of students was given an Olympic event such as Women’s 1000 Meter Speed Skating. The students found the distance of each event and the winning times and used the distance formula to find top medalist’s rate. The sixth graders then converted the metric unit of rate into customary units to find the fastest winter Olympian! Tucker West and Morgan Crawford researched various weights and measures of objects in the 2018 Winter Olympic games for Mrs. Cleere’s math class.

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Bay Minette Student Leaders

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Get Your Hands on Marine Science at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab

Summer Excursions * University Programs Educator Workshops Day Camps

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www.disl.org 251-861-2141

101 Bienville Blvd. Dauphin Island, Alabama 36528 25

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Autauga County Schools

Orange Beach Elementary Kiwanis Terrific Kids

PreK – 2nd Grade: Front Row (left to right): Delanie Kaiser, Landon Arreola, Iris Hart, Jordyn Gray, Allie Roach. Back Row (left to right): Mr. Moss (Principal), Callie White, Christina Ayscue, Jon Thomas Bulman, Dylan Lynch, Jason Jackson (Kiwanis Representative). Not Pictured: Bryn Jones. 3rd – 6th Grades: Front Row (left to right): Steven McNeal, Camrin Jones, Brayden Reynolds, Virginia Law, Colton Ledbetter, Kat Saltee. Back Row (left to right): Mr. Moss (Principal), Connor Gehr, Cole McGatha, Will Lawrence, Harris Murphy, Daigle Wilson, Braxton Shirley, Jason Jackson (Kiwanis Representative).

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Bayside Academy Science Olympiad Team Advances to State

The Bayside Academy C division Science Olympiad team competed March 3 at the University of South Alabama and advanced to the state competition on March 31 at Auburn University. Students placed in the events listed below at the March 3 competition: Dynamic Planet, 3rd place—senior Ford Taylor; Ecology, 1st place—senior Parker Watts; Fermi Questions, 2nd place—sophomores Elsa Engeriser and Chris Miller; Game On, 3rd place—junior Aubrey Engeriser and senior Ford Taylor; Helicopters, 2nd place—sophomores Elsa Engeriser and Arsheya Maghsoud; Herpetology, 2nd place—junior Sam Koby and sophomore Elsa Engeriser; Hovercraft, 3rd place—senior Thomas Denton and sophomore Elsa Engeriser; Material Science, 2nd place— senior Parker Watts and junior Sam Koby; Mission Possible, 3rd place—senior Thomas Denton and sophomore Chris Miller; Mousetrap Vehicle, 3rd place—senior Parker Watts; Remote Sensing, 3rd place—sophomore Chris Miller and junior Aubrey Engeriser; Thermodynamics, 1st place—senior Parker Watts.

Bayshore Cross Country Team Participates in Team Triumph

The Bayshore Christian School Cross Country Team and Running Club recently participated in Team Triumph at the Spring Fever Chase. Team Triumph is a non-profit organization that allows runners to push a disabled child or teenager in their wheelchair through a race. Bayshore runners pushed a teenager in the Spring Fever Chase 10K run. This amazing opportunity allowed runners to serve this child who otherwise wouldn't have been able to participate in the Spring Fever Chase. She had a wonderful time, even finishing in the first pack of runners!

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Autauga County Schools

South Baldwin Chamber Foundation Awards Student Funding to Launch Startups

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On Wednesday, March 21 at 6:00 PM, student entrepreneurs took to the stage to present their business plans before a panel of local business leaders and a public audience. The students were dressed as young professionals, and really wowed the crowd! During the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation’s 6th annual YEA! Investor Panel Event, six students in grades 6 through 12 representing three businesses had six minutes to pitch their business plans. Based on the appeal and merit of the students’ plans and presentations, prominent local members of the business community determined the amount of funds to allocate to each business. The students and businesses awarded were: Mason Adams, Man Addictions Hunting Supply; Trinity Andrews, CEO of Truetrin Unique Hair & Accessories; and NJ Brown, CEO of End In Mind Entertainment Brenna Shaeffer, CEO of Sweet Dreams Cupcakes; Zion Shoots, CEO of MVM Musical Vending Machine; and Millie Snow, CEO of Tie It Up! Hair Ties. The participating investors also selected one business group: Millie Snow, Tie It Up! Hair Ties for an additional prize. Snow will advance to the Young Entrepreneurs Academy Saunders Scholars National College Scholarship competition in Rochester, NY where she will compete for thousands of dollars in college scholarships. Millie is in the 6th grade at Gulf Shores Elementary. She started her business in the 3rd grade and sells unique, fashionable hair ties at boutiques and in vending machines in shops along Alabama's Gulf Coast. This year's runner up is Mason Adams, CEO of Man Addictions Hunting Supplies. Mason sells hunting supplies online and designs and outfits his own dog leads and leashes and sells apparel. Every student walked away with a new business, money to get started, and business connections to help them on their way! We cannot wait to see what the future holds for these talented young adults! Be looking for their businesses cropping up along Baldwin County! Special thanks to presenting sponsors: Ascend Performance Materials and Riviera Utilities and members of the Investor Panel which included: Craig Saget, Ascend Performance Materials; Sarah Kuzma, Meyer Vacation Rentals; Tommy Lee, Vulcan, Inc.; Luanne McCarley, Global Marketing Solutions; Braswell McMeans, Pleasure Island Paradise; and Frances Holk-Jones, Frances Holk Insurance. Co./State Farm.

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Spanish Fort HS Senior Earns Track and Field Scholarship

Congratulations to Conner Moore who signed with Spring Hill track and field. Shown here with his parents, cross-country Coach Mitchell and track Coach Nared.

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Miss and Mr. Spanish Fort High School Congratulations to Regan Miller and Brennan Sharp who were crowned Miss Spanish Fort High School 2018 and Mr. Spanish Fort High School 2018 on March 3. Mattie Sherrill was selected Miss Congeniality, Summerlyn Middleton was selected Sophomore Beauty, and Anna Claire Kinsey won Freshman Beauty.

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St. Michael Cardinals Travel in New Red Bus

The St. Michael Cardinals are rolling! Keep your eye out around town for the athletic teams, band and choir of St. Michael Catholic high school as they travel in their new "Cardinal red" school bus!

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Autauga County Schools

GSES K Kids Club

The K-Kids Club of Gulf Shores Elementary School recently participated in an environmental service project of weeding the flower boxes at the school’s “Kinder Garden” on campus. The K-Kids Pledge, which the K-Kids recite at the start of each week’s meeting, states that as a K-Kid, they will show respect toward their environment. This service project feeds into their K-Kids pledge.

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Fun Friday at Robersdale Elementary

Third grade students in Ms. Addy Bullard's class enjoyed a "Fun Friday" after taking their final Scantron Performance test! The students made great gains in math and reading and were rewarded with playground time!

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Bayside Academy Seniors & Alumni Recognized in Bridge Ceremony

Bayside Academy recognized 11 seniors in the school’s annual Bridge Ceremony on March 21 in The Pilot Center Theatre. The Bridge Ceremony recognizes students who have been identified nationally through their high performances in various national benchmarks. The ceremony is designed to represent an academic bridge from high school to college. Colleges have shared evidence that high performances on national benchmarks combined with a challenging academic program are early predictors of students’ academic success at the university level. At the Bridge Ceremony, one senior was granted AP Scholar with Honor status, and 10 seniors were granted AP Scholar status. AP Scholar with Honor status is granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken and who score 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. AP Scholar status is granted to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams. At the ceremony, senior Parker Watts received AP Scholar with Honor status. The following seniors received AP Scholar status: Ahmad Al-Salem; Sara Boyd; Madison Couch; David Ham; Paige Hammele; Blakely Jones; Emily McCrory; Robert Sullivan; Mary Fran West; Grayson York. In addition, 15 Bayside alumni from the Class of 2017 were honored at the ceremony for their high performances in various benchmarks.

Robertsdale 5th Graders Visit Five Rivers

First grade students in Mrs. Brylyn Wells’ class recently enjoyed a field trip to Five Rivers to study wildlife in the delta region. Students participated in hands-on activities to learn about the delta ecosystem as well as gain new insights to animals who live there.

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Autauga County Schools

Christ the King Science Olympiad Team Competes at State

After placing in the regional Science Olympiad at The University of South Alabama, the Christ the King Science Olympiad team recently traveled to Auburn University to compete in the State Tournament. They won several awards including 4th place in thermodynamics, 4th place in mystery architecture, 2nd place in crime busters, and 1st place in rocks and minerals.

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Gulf Shores Elementary School students Hailey Sanders brought a friend to school today, and Devin Horne helped him write his words. Fun day!

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Bayside Academy Students Excel at Computer Fair

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Six Bayside Academy students competed in the 34th annual Coastal Alabama Community College Computer Fair on March 15. Sixth graders Michael Klimjack and Maxy Dunlap entered projects in the Level 2 (grades 5-6) animation category and received honorable mentions. Also, 6th grader Jack Roussos entered the Level 2 individual programming category and won 1st place, advancing to the state competition on Saturday, April 28, at Auburn University Montgomery (AUM). Three 12th grade students (Level 5) also competed and advanced to the April 28 state competition at AUM. Seniors’ awards were as follows: •Thomas Denton—1st place Web Design and 1st place Internet Applications, •Ford Taylor—1st place Computer Literacy, 1st place Animation, 1st place ultidimensional Art and 1st place Digital Art and •Parker Watts—2nd place Individual Programming, 3rd place Computer Literacy and 3rd place Video Production.

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Gulf Shores Middle School Boys Make All-County Soccer

Congratulations to Gabe Barros and Landon McLean for making All-County Soccer! Athletes are pictured with Coach Prince.

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Autauga County Schools

Rocket Launch at Christ the King Catholic School

Christ the King Catholic School eighth grade Physical Science students held their 2nd Annual Rocket Launch! Mrs. Williams's science students have been studying force and have spent some class time constructing model rockets to launch. Those students also taking Algebra used homemade altitude measuring devices to determine the altitude the rockets reached. Students from all classes walked over to the athletic field to watch some of the launch and we had 56 rockets to take off!

International Day at Bayshore Christian School

The Kindergarten classes at Bayshore Christian School recently celebrated International Day. For several weeks they studied different countries around the world and at the International Day Celebration they each had the opportunity to represent a country of their choice. Each student presented interesting facts about that country, brought snacks that are from that country and dressed up as a native of that country. The students had a great time celebrating International Day!

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EXCELLENCE • RESPONSIBILIT Y INTEGRITY • LEADERSHIP RESPECT • COMMUNITY living our core values 2018-2019 OPEN ENROLLMENT IN CLASSES WHERE SPACE IS AVAILABLE For details, please visit www.baysideacademy.org or call 251.338.6446.

35 www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine Bayside Academy is an independent, coeducational, college preparatory day school offering a superior educational opportunity to students in grades PK-12.

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St. Michael Students Collect Change for Mary’s Shelter

Therapy Dog Visits Robertsdale First Graders

These first grade students in Mrs. Janie Sawyer's class enjoyed a visit with Elsa, a therapy dog. As one can see, she is all smiles along with the kids!

Pictured here, teacher Philip Martin is happily counting the $2000 our students raised for Mary’s Shelter in Elberta. Mary’s Shelter is a home for pregnant homeless women that provides many services for them and their babies.

During the season of Lent, the students of St. Michael Catholic High School participated in a "Baby Bottle" campaign in which they collected their spare change in baby bottle banks.

Sixth Grade Scene Setters

Students in Mrs. Kistler’s sixth grade reading literature circles have been working on identifying how a story’s plot unfolds in a series of episodes using books from the school’s Scholastic Guided Reading Bookroom. Students planned and created these story boards explaining the plot of their books. Shown are some of the children who worked on the project: Grant Bilbo, Faith Craig, Haylee Pressley and Joey Hurd.

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Why Watching TV and Movies Is Better Together

Help Kids Dodge Cigarette, Vaping, and Pot Marketing

While the amount of time kids spend with screens is important, research shows that watching TV and movies with your kids can support early literacy skills, boost empathy, and even help manage aggression after exposure to violent media. How you interact is important, though. As this study of young Sesame Street viewers shows, kids whose parents asked them to name letters and numbers during the show learned better than when parents did the naming. Co-viewing is similar to the way many parents treat reading to kids, especially for preschoolers and other young children. It’s a time to cuddle, focus your attention together, and share the experience of seeing and hearing the same thing, just like story time. In a study of parents who applied the techniques of high-quality reading to watching videos, kids scored higher on comprehension and vocabulary measures than kids whose parents didn’t use the techniques. So how do you actually co-view and reap those benefits? Try these tips with young kids: Focus their attention. Help kids pick up story details by verbally pointing out specific parts of what you’re watching, whether it’s a strange new word, a confusing part, or just an interesting detail. Say: “Look at his shiny new shoes!” Encourage them to think about the order of events. This helps kids think about sequence and cause and effect. Either after watching the show or before watching something they’ve seen before, say: “Can you remember what happened after the dog got loose?” You can also pause the show and ask: “Tell me what’s happening now.” Strengthen their understanding. Ask who, what, when, why, where, and how questions to get your kids to use new words and think through what they’ve seen. Say: “Who is that? Where do they live? Why are they doing what they’re doing?” Make it relatable. Have children link what they see to their own lives. For example, “Wow, they’re angry. What did you do the last time you were angry?” This helps kids learn to express themselves, cope with feelings, and understand others better. Expand on what kids say. Rephrase information from the show or things your kids have said back to them, relate details to your own life, or add new information. These are all ways to improve conversation skills, teach kids about the world, and bolster your connection. Say: “Loud noises scared Daniel Tiger. I don’t like loud noises either. How do you feel when you hear loud noises?” Here’s a badly kept secret: Kids like to talk about media -- a lot. Take advantage of this, as it will open up all kinds of opportunities to find out about the things your kids are interested in, the things that are important to them, and even what’s happening in their lives. You may be surprised at where your conversations lead. Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

Whether or not you smoke cigarettes or support legalizing marijuana, you probably don’t want your kids lighting up. But the rise of e-cigs, vaporizers like the Juul, and decriminalized pot may make your standard anti-smoking arguments -- “it causes cancer,” “it’s illegal” -- feel a little shaky. Add in celebrities posting pictures of themselves smoking various substances, and you might wonder: Is it possible to raise drug-free, smoke-free kids in the era of Smoking 2.0? If you’re feeling outspent, out-messaged, and out-cooled, take heart. There are plenty of ways to fight back: Traditional cigarettes Explain how bad smoking is for you. Kids think they’re immune and immortal. The death statistics could be eye-opening, even for the “it won’t happen to me” age group. Talk about how addictive nicotine is. Nicotine is really difficult to quit. Discuss the signs of physical addiction and the risk of getting addicted. Help them resist gimmicks. Traditional cigarettes are trying to capture smoker interest by using kid-friendly tricks -- for example, the Camel Crush cigarettes with a menthol ball inside. But the cigarettes still really are bad for you. Vaporizors and e-cigs Share the facts. E-cigarettes and vapes do reduce exposure to some of the harmful chemicals of tobacco cigarettes, but no one really knows the impact of these products on kids’ health. And studies show they contain formaldehyde. Talk about addiction. Kids can get hooked on nicotine but also on the physical habit of reaching for a pipe. Get your doctor involved. Have your pediatrician talk to your kid about the dangers of ingesting any chemical you don’t know much about. Marijuana Impart your values. Discuss what’s important to you: good character, solid judgment, and belief in a bright future -- all of which are compromised by smoking pot. Explain the health consequences. Study after study indicates that pot negatively affects a teen’s developing brain. Encourage waiting. For some kids, forbidding might backfire, so focus on preventing them from starting to smoke in the first place, delaying it as long as possible. Pull back the curtain on pot marketing. Kids and teens don’t like to be tricked, and advertising is full of sneaky ways to get people to buy a product, including branding pot products with names such as Bob Marley and Willie Nelson. Instead of lecturing, help your kids break down the ads to see how they try to influence emotions, choices, and behavior. 38

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P Not as Bad, But Still Not Smart Q.

How do you feel about check cashing companies?

A. I’m not a big fan of check cashing companies. They’re not nearly as bad as payday lenders, but it still seems kind of silly to me there’s even a market for this kind of thing. If you want a place to cash your checks and store your money, all you have to do is walk into a bank and open an account. I realize there’s a small segment of the population that some people in financial circles like to call “the unbanked.” This means that, for whatever reason, they avoid banks. That’s their choice, but in the process, they leave themselves susceptible to bad deals. As I said, I don’t feel the same way about check-cashing companies as I do about payday lenders. But it’s still not a

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

financially smart move to regularly pay a storefront operation fees just to cash your checks.

Getting Rid of the Car Q. How do you sell a vehicle with a lien amount that’s higher than the actual value of the car? A. First, you need to find a way to cover the difference between the amount of the lien and what you can get for the car. Let’s say the car is worth $12,000, and you owe $15,000. That would leave you $3,000 short. The bank holds the title, so unless you give them the payoff amount of $15,000 you’re not getting the title. The

40

easiest and simplest way would be if someone buys the car for $12,000, and you had $3,000 on hand to make up the difference. If you don’t have the money to make up the difference, you could go to a local bank or credit union and borrow the remaining $3,000. I really hate debt, but being $3,000 in the hole is a lot better than being $15,000 in the hole. Then, you could turn around and quickly pay back the $3,000 you borrowed. You’d give the total amount owed to the bank, they would give you the title, and you would sign it over to the new owner. Hope this helps!

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The sounds of Pomp & Circumstance fill the air as we approach graduation season. When your graduate closes the door to childhood, you want to give him a gift that reflects that milestone. Stuck for ideas? No matter what your budget, you are sure to find a great gift for your graduate here: Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

42

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Spirit wear

Help your recent grad blend in at their new school by getting them some college spirit wear. Contact the school directly or go online to PrepSportsWear. com. They have an amazing database of colleges in the U.S and Canada.

Luggage

Maybe your grad is taking a year off and plans to travel. Whether they are traveling first class or backpacking across the country, they need something to hold their things. For daily use, consider purchasing a book bag for walking around campus or a duffle bag for the gym.

Toolkit

If your grad is planning to move out of Mom and Dad’s house, they won’t have access to Dad’s toolbox. A basic toolkit includes screwdrivers, pliers, a hammer, measuring tape and other handy tools. You can find a ready-made toolkit at your local hardware store.

Gift cards

Gift cards are a one-size-fits-all type of gift. New college students might appreciate a gas card or a gift card to Walmart, where they can pick up food, toiletries or household items. IKEA sells inexpensive furniture for small spaces – perfect for a dorm setting.

A Basket of Goodies

Whether your grad is starting out in his first apartment or headed to the dorm, he will appreciate a basket full of essentials. Fill a laundry basket with snack foods, toiletries, a sewing kit, and a roll of quarters for the Laundromat.

Books

A classic graduation book is Dr. Seuss’ “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” which is an inspirational graduation sendoff for all ages. For practical college advice, try “The Secrets of College Success” by Lynn F. Jacobs. To record their college experiences, consider buying a 5-year journal.

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Money

The most popular gift for grads is cash. The question is always, “How much should I spend?” Check out Simchabucks.com for a cash gift calculator. Fill in your relationship to grad, state the event takes place, who the gift is from and your household income to receive a dollar amount suggestion.

Homemade gift

If you have the time to make it, a homemade gift is a heartfelt one. Make a pillow or quilt out of high school and sports t-shirts. Put together a scrap book of high school memories and include theatre programs, sports medals and football programs. Create a photo montage of pictures from Kindergarten to graduation and present it at her party. ESP

Pam Molnar is the mother of a high graduate this year. With a summer filled with parties to celebrate the Class of 2018, she will have the perfect gift for all the graduates in her life.

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Coding Fun for Digital Age Kids

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Toys and games offer maximum value when they teach new skills, when they stretch muscles both physical and mental. With more of our everyday lives connected to computers, apps and smart technology, the future is increasingly dictated by code. Introducing the basic concepts of coding to children not only gives them an early advantage in the future jobs landscape, but also teaches critical thinking skills, problem solving and tenacity. Coding also offers kids a sense of empowerment when they begin to grasp and implement the basics of coding, as they learn the secrets that drive the software, apps and websites they use everyday. The following items are entertaining introductions to coding for kids with an eye on the future.

by Gerry Paige Smith

COJI: The Coding Robot Toy

Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set

Before they dig into actual coding languages, kids can explore programming the COJI robot with a language they already understand... emoji! Combining emoticons and other familiar electronic symbols with arrows and images, youngsters can use this universal language to control their COJI. Using a smartphone or tablet with the COJI app, kid quickly pick up the way to ‘code’ commands that will have the robot moving, sounding off, and responding with emoji on its screen ‘face’. Just like with any coding, much of the process is trial-and-error, but COJI’s hilarious responses to mistakes will keep kids engaged while they master their troubleshooting skills. Not limited to device engagement, COJI can operate without the app or after screen time has ended. Accessible for kids regardless of reading level or math skills, COJI: The Coding Robot Toy is an early coding confidence builder!

While the irony of teaching code with a mouse isn’t lost on parents who depended on a mouse before touch screens arrived, the notion of coding a ‘mouse’ to navigate a maze is perfect for engaging kids as they program their way to success. Using a customizable maze board with walls and tunnels, the simple controls on the back of the mouse lets users plan its path. This coding set includes 16 maze grids, 22 maze walls, 3 tunnels, 30 double-sided coding cards, 10 doublesided activity cards, cheese wedge, and activity guide to provide a hands-on introduction to coding concepts. Young coders can also take the action off grid, creating original obstacles and paths with pillows, toys or anything the Code & Go Mouse can scoot around. Excellent for cultivating children’s ability to estimate distance and predict outcomes, each new coding of the robot mouse builds confidence and gets them one step closer to programming their own path to a bright future!

(Wowee)

(Learning Resources)

Future Coders Poppin’ Pictures

Let’s Go Code

(Learning Resources) The youngest set can dip their toes into the world of coding in a non-digital way, free of electronic screens with the Let’s Go Code game! Using double-sided pictorial ‘coding cards’ kids can plan their desired path and formulate the strategic moves that will get them to their destination. The cards dictate the players’ actions, their forward strides, pivots and other moves “coded” to get them to the finish. Featuring 16 EVA foam mats, 20 coding cards, and fun die-cut pieces, the set includes a full-color guide with a coding overview and maze examples to get kids started. Flexing physical and mental muscles, this engaging exercise in basic coding is a fun and forward-thinking introduction to programming for the kindergarten set!

(Alex Toys)

Described in broad strokes, code is a representation of something else. While it may seem incomprehensible in its basic form, code can translate into a recognizable element when it reaches its end point. Future Coders Poppin’ Pictures demonstrates this process using a series of coded tiles. Using a suction cup pen, kids follows a coded ‘map’ as they place tiles onto a grid in a variety of configurations. When complete, the correctly placed tiles resolve into a picture. It’s a great introduction to representational thinking while fostering concentration and patience. Supporting important pre-programming skills like sequencing and analytical thinking, Poppin’ Pictures offers right-brain fun seasoned with some rigorous left-brain exercises.

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 May 2018

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at 6pm. Registration will be available at the church office and online. (251) 621-7095 john@jubileebaptist.com www.jubileebaptist.com

Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church 901 Daphne Avenue Daphne, 36526 Theme: “GodSquad: Special Agents in Action” Dates: June 11 - 15, 2018 Fun and engaging activities for participants of all ages become God’s Special Agents in Action by investigating the needs of their community! (251) 369-0330 lewis.mildred3@gmail.com www.macedoniabaptistchurch-daphne.com

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

2018

Vacation

Bible Schools Eastern Shore Baptist Church ad on page 22

6847 Park Drive Daphne, 36526 Theme: Game On! Dates: June 18 22, 2018 Times: 8:30am - 12:15pm Ages: K5 - rising

6th grade in the Fall of 2018. Eastern Shore Baptist Church invites you to join us for VBS! The theme this year is LifeWay’s “Game On!” We look forward to learning how God empowers us to live lives that glorify Him! VBS is open to all participants who are rising K5 through rising 6th grade in the Fall of 2018. You can register online at our website. If you have any questions, please call Will Haynes. We can’t wait to see you June 18th! (251) 626-5550 will@myesbc.net www.myesbc.net

First Baptist Fairhope

ad on page 45

300 South Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Theme: Gear Up! Get Ready! Game On! Dates: June 10 - 14, 2018 Times: 9:00am 12:30pm Ages: K - 6th grade Our VBS Kick off will be Sunday evening June 10th. Registration is available on our website. Be sure to call or check our website for traffic and parking information the week of VBS. Our church will be in a construction zone during that time. Please call the church office for questions. (251) 928-8685 knelson@fbcfairhope.org www.fbcfairhope.org Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

Bay Minette First UMC Bay Minette

120 West 2nd Street Bay Minette, 36507 Theme: Shipwrecked: Rescued by Jesus Dates: June 18 - 22, 2018 Times: 8:30am 12:00pm Ages: 4 – 12 years Venture onto an uncharted island where kids survive and thrive. Anchor kids in the truth that Jesus carries them through life’s storms. Registration available at www.vbspro.events/p/events/ fumcbm18. (251) 937-8303 annalauracolbert@gmail.com www.fumcbayminette.org

Daphne Ascension Lutheran Church

8888 County Road 64 Daphne, 36526 Theme: Splash Canyon Dates: June 11 - 14, 2018 Times: 6:00pm - 8:00pm Ages: 3 years - rising 6th grade Please call the church office for registration details. (251) 626-7500 ascensionlcms@bellsouth.net www.ourdaphnechurch.org

Christ Presbyterian Church

8450 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, 36526 Theme: Paul and the Early Church Dates: June 3 - 7, 2018 Times: 5:30pm - 8:00pm Ages: K4 - 5th grade Light supper served at 5:30pm and VBS activities will be from 6pm - 8pm. For information and registration, visit our website. (251) 621-9444 christchurchdaphne@gmail.com www.cpcdaphne.com

Jubilee Baptist Church

9264 Pleasant Road Daphne, 36526 Theme: Gear Up! Get Ready! Game On! Dates: July 9 - 13, 2018 Times: 5:15pm - 8:30pm We’re gearing up for life’s big game! Please join us! VBS Dinner served at 5:15pm and VBS will begin

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28788 North Main Street Daphne, 36526 Theme: Babylon: Daniel’s Courage in Captivity Dates: July 16 - 19, 2018 Times: 9:00am 12:00pm Ages: 3 years and up Learn how Daniel and his friends were torn from home and forced into the king’s service but kept their Faith in the Lord! We’ll explore sights and smells in a Babylonian Bazaar! Middle and High School students are invited to help with Music, Art and Drama performances during VBS. A special MAD (Music, Art, Drama) Prep program will be offered July 9th, 11th and 12th for participants. . (251) 626-2421 ea.fst@hotmail.com www.stpaulseasternshore.com

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church: MAD (Music & Arts VBS Drama Prep)

28788 North Main Street Daphne, 36526 Theme: MAD: Music, Art, Drama Prep for St. Paul’s VBS Dates: July 9, 11 & 12, 2018 Times: 9:00am -12:00pm Ages: Middle and High School ages This is a 3 day prep camp for Middle and High School teens who would like to help with Music, Art and Drama performances during VBS at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. The VBS program will run July 16th - 19th from 9am - 12pm. (251) 626-2421 ea.fst@hotmail.com www.stpaulseasternshore.com

Fairhope Barnwell Baptist Church

7780 US Highway 98 Fairhope, 36532 Theme: Shipwrecked: Rescued by Jesus Dates: July 9 - 13, 2018 Times: 8:30am - 11:30am Ages: K - 5th grade Come join us at Barnwell Baptist for VBS! A commencement service will be Friday evening at 6pm. For registration please contact Robyn Cohron. (251) 928-8286 cohronpmc@aol.com www.barnwellbaptist.org

Celebration Church

8180 Dyer Road Fairhope, 36532 Theme: Summer Surge Dates: July 16 - 18, 2018 Please call for more information. (251) 928-0343 patty@fairhopechurch.com www.fairhopechurch.com

Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church

23050 U.S. Highway 98 Fairhope, 36532 Theme: Time Lab: Discovering Jesus from Eternity Past to Eternity Future! Dates: June 4 - 7, 2018 Times: 8:30am - 11:30 am Ages: K5 - 6th grade Get ready to launch into hyperdrive at Time Lab, where we’ll have a blast uncovering the truth about Jesus through his word. You won’t want to miss a nanosecond of the fun, so set your watches and make plans to join us at Time Lab! Registration is available at www.myvbs.org/ espc2018. (251) 210-1226 adavey@easternshorepca.org www.easternshorepca.org

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Fairhope UMC

155 South Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Theme: Shipwrecked: Rescued by Jesus Dates: June 4 - 8, 2018 Times: 8:45am - 12:15pm Ages: On site for 3-4 year olds and rising Kindergarten; 1st - 6th grade will go off site for mission work. The 2018 VBS Theme for VBS will be “Shipwrecked: Rescued for Jesus” Preschool Program: 3 & 4 year olds of on-site volunteers and rising K; Elementary Program: rising 1st – rising 6th graders (6th graders go off site to do mission work); Nursery Program: for on-site volunteers only (must have an older child in preschool or elementary program; space limited). Online Registration will open May 6th. (251) 928-1148 michelle.graham@fairhopeumc.org www.fairhopeumc.org

Family Ministries Center

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9955 County Road 34 Fairhope, 36532 Theme: Gear Up! Get Ready! Game On! Dates: June 25 - 29, 2018 with Family Fun Day June 30, 2018 Times: 6:00pm - 8:30pm and Saturday 11:00am - 1:00pm Ages: 3 years - 12 years Grab your megaphones, lace up your cleats, and tune up your instruments! God wants us all to join HIS team, train hard, celebrate salvation, and encourage one another. Come join us for the week at VBS! You are also invited to join us for Family Fun Day on Saturday, June 30th from 11am - 1pm. Tons of Fun, Games, and fellowship. (251) 928-4780 tiffanyerowan@gmail.com www.familyministriescenter.net

Jubilee Shores UMC

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17261 State Highway 181 Fairhope, 36532 Theme: Summer Nights at Jubilee Shores (VBS) Dates: July 31 - August 3, 2018 Times: 5:30pm 8:30pm Ages: 6 - 12 years.

Summer Nights at Jubilee Shores (VBS) will run Tuesday through Friday, July 31-August 3, 2018. We will have a children’s camp/retreat feel centered around nature and playing outside, with messages communicated through campfire skits and small groups. Our program will also offer free dinner at 5pm for participants and their families. Please call the church office for questions. Registration is available online. Please visit our website listed above. (251) 928-9133 donaldfurlong@gmail.com www.jubileeshores.net

St. Lawrence Catholic Parish

370 South Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Theme: Prayer Safari Dates: June 11 - 15, 2018 Times: 9:00am 12:15pm Ages: Rising K - 6th grade. Early Bird Registration Discount ends April 11, 2018. Registration Deadline is May 11, 2018. The Bible-setting transports children (and adults!) into the past, allowing them to imagine what it would have been like to live when Jesus did. Activities include: Crafts, Snacks, Sing & Play, Outdoor Games, Trivia Games, & Learning Stations. (251) 928-5931 family@stlawrencefairhope.com www.stlawrencefairhope.com

Trinity Presbyterian Church

545 South Mobile Street Fairhope, 36532 Theme: Galilee by the Sea “Catch Jesus in Action” Dates: July 9 - 13, 2018 Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm Ages: K4 - 5th grade (251) 928-2524 tpccarrys@gmail.com www.tpcfairhope.org

Foley First Baptist Church of Foley

221 North Alston Street Foley, 36535 Theme: Gear Up! Get Ready! Game On! Dates: June 18 - 22, 2018 Times: 9:00am -

12:00pm Ages: K - 6th grade Grab your pom poms, lace up your cleats, and tune up your horn. It’s time to gear up for life’s big game! This summer we will learn to rely on God’s strength. He’s given us His complete Word as the ultimate playbook. He wants us to join the team & train hard. Children will have the opportunity to participate in rec, music, crafts, & missions. We will also have a Pep Rally on Wednesday evening from 6pm - 8pm. (251) 943-8352 tspradlin@fbcfoley.com www.fbcfoley.com

Grace Fellowship, PCA

1740 South Juniper Street Foley, 36535 Theme: Son Quest Rainforest Dates: June 25 - 29, 2018 Times: 5:00pm 7:00pm Ages: Rising K-4 – 5th grade Please call for more information. VBS registration coming soon. (251) 975-8378 sarah.thornbury@gmail.com www.gracefellowship-pca.com

Gulf Shores First Baptist Gulf Shores

2200 West 1st Street Gulf Shores, 36542 Theme: Shipwrecked: Rescued by Jesus Dates: June 4 - 7, 2018 Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm Ages: Pre-K - 7th grade Children will have the opportunity to experience fun games, interactive worship, creative lessons, and even science experiments as they learn how God will rescue them in the midst of life’s storms. A special time will also be Wednesday evening program from 5:30pm - 8:15pm for children in VBS. A Preteen Extreme program is offered for 6th and 7th grade. Please visit our website to register. (251) 968-7369 plee4351@gmail.com www.fbcgulf.com/vbs-2018

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First Presbyterian Church Gulf Shores

309 East 21st Avenue Gulf Shores, 36542 Dates: July 23 - 17, 2018 Times: 9:00am 11:30am Ages: Completed K - 4th grade Please contact Barbara White for information coming soon. (251) 968-5019 (251) 968-7720 gsfpcusa@gulftel.com www.gulfshoresfirstpresbyterian.org

Gulf Shores United Methodist Church

1900 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 Theme: Rolling River Rampage Dates: June 11 - 14, 2018 Times: 9:00am 12:00pm Ages: 4 years (by Sept 1st) - rising 6th grade. Experience a ride of a lifetime with God! Kids will become rafters & explore how to serve God & His mission for their lives. Register online at www. gulfshoresumc.org/vbs. (251) 968-2411 lee@gulfshoresumc.org www.gulfshoresumc.org

Loxley First Baptist Church Loxley

Dates: June 11 - 15, 2018 Times: 9:00am 12:30pm Ages: 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

Robertsdale First Baptist Church, Robertsdale

18200 Highway 104 Robertsdale, 36567 Theme: Camp 318 Dates: June 4 - 8, 2018 Times: 9:00am - 2:30pm Ages: K- 5th grade Please visit our Facebook page ‘Camp 318 Robertsdale FBC’ for the link to registration. Registration will begin May 3rd. Camp 318 will cost $20 and includes a t-shirt and supplies. Campers will need a peanut free lunch, snack and drink for each day. (251) 947-4362 office@firstrobertsdale.com www.firstrobertsdale.com

1050 North Alabama Street Loxley, 36551 Theme: Shipwrecked: Rescued by Jesus Dates: June 18 - 22, 2018 Times: 6:00pm 8:30pm Ages: Completed Kindergarten - 6th grade Families are invited for a special Family Night on June 22. This will be a time for the entire family to experience VBS together! Fun, Food, and Fellowship begins at 6:00pm. (251) 964-5261 fbcloxleychildren@gmail.com www.fbcloxley.com

Rosinton United Methodist Church

Orange Beach

Spanish Fort

Orange Beach United Methodist Church

First Baptist Church, Spanish Fort

28751 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Theme: Shipwrecked: Rescued by Jesus

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26011 Baldwin Beach Express Robertsdale, 36567 Theme: Gear Up! Get Ready! Game On! Dates: June 11 - 15, 2018 Times: 6:00pm - 8:00pm Ages: K - 6th grade We will offer a fun week of exciting sports! Please contact the church office for registration information. (251) 964-5988 rosintonumc@gmail.com www.rosintonumc.net/

8353 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Theme: VBS Old School

Dates: June 11 -15, 2018 Please call the church office for specific VBS information and how to register. Our office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8am - 1pm. (251) 626-3070 firstbaptistosf@bellsouth.net

New Life Assembly of God Church

10424 Highway 31 Spanish Fort, 36527 Theme: Kids Krusades Dates: July 29 - 31, 2018 Times: 6:30pm - 8:00pm Ages: 4 - 12 years New Life Kids Krusade a fun, high energy, spiritual time for kids to learn about God in a super way using puppets, blacklights, songs, games,and object lessons. Food will be provided each night along with inflatables to enjoy after the service. No preregistration required. Just come join us! (251) 656-3535 Ferronsmith@hotmail.com newlifeagspanishfort.com

Spanish Fort Presbyterian Church

6620 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Theme: Galactic Starveyors - Discovering the God of the Universe Dates: June 4 - 8, 2018 Times: 8:30am - 12:00pm Ages: Rising K - 5th grade (completed). (251) 626-1242 karen@spanishfortpc.com www.spanishfortpresbyterian.com

Spanish Fort United Methodist Church

Highway 31 at Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, 36527 Theme: Shipwrecked: Rescued by Jesus Dates: June 11 - 15, 2018 Times: 8:45am 12:15pm Come join us for a week of games, music, and fun where we will learn about how we are Rescued by Jesus! Please call the church office for registration instructions. (251) 626-1334 jrobertson@spanishfortumc.org www.spanishfortumc.org ESP

SUMMER camps JUNE/JULY 2018 for Ages 6+

Camps starting at $75! Membership Discounts!! EASTERN SHORE ART CENTER 401 Oak St.

Fairhope, AL 36532

(251) 928-2228 Ext 107

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Getting started with physical activity can be challenging but is possible. If you’re not used to being active, talk with your doctor first.

Increasing physical activity is easier and more enjoyable when you’re not alone.

• Find a partner! Whether it’s a friend, co-worker, family member, or someone with similar goals.

• Find where physical activity fits into your daily routine and make time for it.

• Work with your partner to motivate and cheer each other on.

• Take small steps towards increasing activity.

• Find an activity that you want to do, not have to do. Choose an activity that’s fun!

• Start slowly. Change one habit at a time.

• Get up and move every hour.

• Physical activity is for everybody!

get eNough

get results

Any amount of physical activity is a good start! As your activity increases, remember:

Physical activity improves your health by increasing energy, relieving stress, controlling your weight, building strength, and reducing your risk of heart disease, cancer, and other chronic conditions.

• Aerobic activity increases your heart rate and gets you breathing harder like brisk walking or rolling, dancing, and swimming.

• Track your progress. Log what works best for you using tools like a journal, pedometer, calendar, or phone app.

• Adults need 30 minutes of aerobic activity every day. 10 minutes at a time is fine.

• Expect slip ups or setbacks and don’t give up!

• Work all major muscle groups at least 2 times a week. This includes using a stretch band, weight lifting, push ups, and yoga.

• Celebrate successes, no matter how small!

• Household chores, gardening, walking your pet, and taking the stairs all count as physical activity too.

What are you waiting for? www.getmovingalabama.org 49

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Homeschooling comes of age

If Mike Beery knows his way around pixels and PhotoShop, it’s no surprise; he’s a seasoned graphic designer. More surprising is the fact that he manages his business alongside a bustling classroom— granted, the class convenes at his family’s kitchen table, and the students are his two children, Grace, 11, and Gavin, 8. Together with his wife Debi, a nurse, Beery juggles a homebased graphic design business with full-time homeschooling. Because they don’t fit into the mold of the typical homeschooling family—stay-at-home mom, breadwinning dad—people are surprised that homeschool works for them, says Beery. “But if we can do it, anyone can.” The Beerys illustrate the changing image of homeschool. Like the graphic images Mike creates for clients, it’s a picture colored by modern technology, as electronic curricula and online schools make home education a possibility for people from all walks of life.

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

Once thought of as an educational off-ramp for a select few, homeschooling is now a viable option for families that might not have considered it a decade ago. Per the U.S. Department of Education National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the number of homeschooled students has more than doubled in the past 18 years, from 850,000 in 1999 to around 1.8 million today. The NCES reports that around 3 percent of today’s school-age children are homeschooled. According to Brian D. Ray, Ph.D., founder and president of Salem, Ore.–based National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI), there are now 2.04 million homeschooled students in the U.S. Thanks to lowered social stigma around homeschooling, it’s no longer something that’s left wing or right wing, reserved for the ultraconservative or new agers, says Ray. “It’s clearly a viable option for mainstream America.”

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According to the NCES, parents’ top reasons for choosing homeschooling have remained consistent: the desire to provide moral education, concerns about the school environment and dissatisfaction with the academic instruction at local schools. The overarching theme, says Ray, is that most parents who choose to homeschool believe they can provide a better education at home, and they embrace their right to do so. That aspect of homeschooling hasn’t changed.

One-to-one learning

So then, what has changed about homeschooling in the past decade? What is prompting families to jump onboard? According to Ray, it’s a combination of technology-aided learning and a corresponding surge in educational options for homeschoolers, from free, government-run online schools and online tutoring to turnkey DVD curricula. These new educational offerings do more than crowd display booths at homeschooling conferences. They remove a major access barrier to homeschooling—the need to have a parent at home full time. By reducing the intimidation factor, the isolation and even the parental workload once associated with homeschooling, online schools and complete-school-in-a-box curricula make it possible for working parents, single parents and other nontraditional homeschoolers to successfully educate their kids at home.

Parents can choose from a growing menu of options to completely customize their child’s education, and that’s extremely appealing, says Ray. “With the variety of support systems, curricular materials and online support services that are available, there is absolutely no lack of anything that a homeschooling family could want,” he says. Beery finds balance with a DVD homeschooling curriculum that provides video instruction and lesson plans for each child. It’s rigorous and fairly structured, and, because the lesson plans come already tailored to each child’s grade level, Beery doesn’t need to spend hours each night preparing the next day’s schoolwork. Prepping for each day takes about five minutes, he says. “My wife and I provide support and help when the kids need it. She helps with math; I’m the history person. But they’re old enough to work pretty independently now.” Most days, the kids spend their mornings on lessons; Beery oversees their work and stays in touch with clients. Afternoons are spent at swim lessons, sports classes and other activities. Technology-supported home learning also addresses the unique challenges faced by single and divorced parents. For childbirth educator Kelli Barr-Lyles, a divorced parent, Washington’s free online school, The Columbia Virtual Academy, is a way for her to meet her ex-husband halfway.

Her two sons, Jonathan, 13, and Christopher, 9, check in regularly with a learning adviser and fill out monthly accountability worksheets. The system builds learning outcomes into her style of “unschooling” while providing enough structure to keep her former husband, who favors more traditional education, happy. “It drives me crazy, but it holds me accountable,” she says. Technology facilitates learning in a way that homeschooling’s early pioneers couldn’t have dreamed of, says Barr-Lyles. Christopher is studying computer animation, something she doubts he would be able to pursue at a traditional middle school. Whether this is a real interest or a passing phase, she’s more than happy to help him follow his current passion. “The best thing about homeschool is the level of customization it offers. I can follow their interests.”

Creating connections

Technology also increases the feeling of being connected and creates a sense of community, says Barr-Lyles. Finding support is important, especially as kids get older and the playdates and parent-child gym classes that once provided regular interaction with other homeschoolers taper off. Luckily, the nearest homeschool group is usually just a few clicks away on the web. “There’s plenty of support out there,” she says. She belongs to “at least a dozen” homeschooling support groups through Yahoo and Meetup.com.

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YouTube Channels to Supplement your Homeschool Curriculum Veritasium - Veritasium is a channel of science and engineering videos featuring experiments, expert interviews, cool demos, and discussions with the public about everything science. Numberphile - If you want your child to have a deeper understanding (and perhaps even love) for math, check out the videos on this channel. Crash Course - This is your one stop shop for learning about sociology, computer science, film history, mythology, physcs, philosophy, games, economics, U.S. government and politics, astronomy, anatomy & physiology, world history, biology, literature, ecology, chemistry, psychology, and U.S. history. Crash Course Kids - This biweekly show covers grade school science. Every Tuesday and Thursday, they dive into topics such as Earth Science, Physical Science, Biology Geography, Engineering, and Astronomy. School My Kid - School My Kid creates free learning videos for young kids who are trying to master early education concepts. Developed by a certified teacher, the videos are designed to help with learning letters, numbers, shapes, and more. PBS Kids - You can rest assured that this channel is filled with age-appropriate content that offers positive role models for children to learn from and grow with. www.lifeofahomeschoolmom.com

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

Debra Green of Aurora, Colo., didn’t have the benefit of online support when she homeschooled her first two children, now 26 and 23. Now that she’s homeschooling her younger children, Lilly, 6, and Nathanial, 5, she draws on experience and resources from around the world through Heart of Wisdom, a worldwide Christian homeschooling group that communicates primarily through email and message boards. She organizes a local chapter, Home of Wisdom, in her hometown. Virtual support groups create camaraderie and a larger pool of resources and knowledge, she says. “We can cry to each other and help each other.” Community programs, often facilitated and managed online, allow homeschooling families to circumvent one of the primary challenges associated with homeschooling: socialization. The perception that homeschooled children aren’t well socialized just isn’t true, says Beery. Through community homeschooling programs, such as swim lessons and regular playdates, his kids interact with kids of all ages, and adults, too.

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Tech troubles

But there can be downsides to the explosion of technology-aided homeschooling, says Ray. Often, too many choices mean that homeschooling can be overwhelming to newcomers. “When your child attends public school, the curriculum is figured out for you,” says Ray. But homeschoolers are faced with the significant challenge of sifting through dozens of curricular offerings and countless websites and message boards to find out which approach is best for their unique child. It’s information overload, plain and simple. Starting homeschool was ex­tremely overwhelming at first, says Barr-Lyles. “You feel like the world is on your shoulders. I know my kids better than anyone else, so I had to figure out, how are we going to do this? But you have to weed out the ‘stuff’ that doesn’t apply to you and your kids, and it’s hard.” Even with the world of technology-aided learning at their fingertips, modern homeschoolers shouldn’t discount the importance of face-to-face support. Local support groups, with their meetings, group activities and field trips, are always going to serve an important role, Ray notes. “People still want — and need — high-touch interactions,” he says. “I think that piece is never going to go away.” ESP Freelance writer Malia Jacobson was homeschooled in the late ’80s and early ’90s. Her homeschool memories involve trekking to far-flung bookstores every fall to pick out textbooks and workbooks.

www.easternshoreparents.com


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Books and Literature

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100 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum by Cathy Duffy Echo in Celebration: A Call to Home-Centered Education by Leigh A. Bortins For the Children’s Sake by Susan Schaeffer Macalay Repairing the Ruins by Douglas Wilson Saving Leonardo by Nancy Pearcey Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons by Siegfried Engelmann

Alabama Cover Schools Alabama Homeschool Academy

www.alabamahomeschoolacademy.com/Contact.html

Broadchurch Academy

www.broadchurchacademy.org

Calvary School

calvaryschool_carla.floyd@yahoo.com www.calvaryschool.org

Dayspring Academy www.dsacademy.org

Everest Academy

www.alabamahomeschooling.com

HOPE Christian Academy www.HopeChristAcad.org

LifeGate Academy

www.lifegateacademy.com

New Hope

www.newhope4kids.com/cover-school-information

Outlook Academy

www.outlookacademy.org

The Way Home Christian School

wayhomeschool@gmail.com www.wayhome.biz

Baldwin County Cover Schools Bridge Christian Academy

P.O. Box 701 Fairhope , AL 36533 BCA is a legal homeschool covering in Alabama for parents who desire to provide academic excellence with a Biblical worldview. We are a statewide cover and have an office in Fairhope, Alabama. Founded in 2006 by Pastor Todd & DuAnne Seeley, BCA has been a leader in church schools for over 12 years. We are a ministry of Eastern Shore Community Church. Our purpose is to offer support, encouragement and accountability for homeschool families. (251) 979-6227 AlabamaBCA@gmail.com www.BridgeChristianAcademy.com

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

Central Christian School Homeschool Department

17387 Alabama 104 Robertsdale , AL 36567 Central Christian School is a non-denominational Christian school that offers a superior educational opportunity for qualifying students from preschool through 12th grade. It is the mission of Central Christian School to work closely together with the home and church in providing a Christ-centered spiritual, academic and physical foundation in a nurturing environment to produce citizens who will be a transforming influence in their world. Our academic program, while placing emphasis on the basics, includes classes in the arts, foreign language, computer, and physical education. We also offer a full athletic program for middle school through high school students. (251) 947-7754 catherine@ccssaints.com www.ccssaints.com

First Assembly of God Christian School

P.O. Box 914 Robertsdale , AL 36567 FACS is a church school program that operates as a ministry of First Assembly of God Church in Robertsdale. Families must apply for admittance to this church school. An Application and Handbook are available on our website.

The Big Books of Home Learning by Mary Pride

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The Homeschooling Handbook by Mary Griffith The Practical Homeschooling Magazine by Mary Pride The Way They Learn by Cynthia Ulrich Tobias The Well Trained Mind A Guide to Classical Education at Home by Susan Wise Bauer and Jessie Wise They’re Your Kids by Sam Sorbo

An inspirational journey from self doubter to homeschool advocate.

Understanding Mathematics by Keith Kressin

SACS - South Alabama Christian School

A Beka Curriculum

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Curriculum Options

(251) 947-5119 balcodst@gulftel.com www.churchofchristatrobertsdale.com

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The Core – The Conversation – The Question (3 books) by Leigh A. Bortins

(251) 946-2250 or (251) 947-5890 facschurchschool@yahoo.com www.homeschool-life.com/732/

23360 Hill Road Silverhill, AL 36576 At SACS, we believe that God places direct responsibilities on families, particularly fathers, to direct the spiritual, academic, and vocational training of their children. Therefore, South Alabama Christian was established as a ministry of the Robertsdale Church of Christ in an effort to aid members of the congregation and like-minded Christian families an alternative to public, private, or parochial school in the form of individual instruction of children by their parents in traditional courses of academic study, basic living skills, spiritual growth and citizenship. Our goal is to equip and encourage our families to achieve academic excellence for their children by providing a means of education in the safe and loving atmosphere of their own homes.Please contact Michelle Hinton at balcodst@gulftel.com for more information.

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A Beka Curriculum has a Christian and traditional approach to education. www.abeka.com/homeschool/

All in One High School

Free, Online, Christian based www.allinonehighschool.com

All in One Homeschool (AKA Easy Peasy) Free, online, Christian based education. www.allinonehomeschool.com

Alpha Omega Publications

Alpha Omega offers a wide variety of Christian curricula for varying learning styles. www.aop.com

Ambleside

AmblesideOnline is a free homeschool curriculum that uses Charlotte Mason’s classically-based principles to prepare children for a life of rich

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relationships with everything around them: God, humanity, and the natural world. www.amblesideonline.org

Apologia Educational Ministries Apologia Educational Ministries offers biblical worldview and apologetic titles. www.apologia.com

Bob Jones Curriculum BJU

BJU Press Promotes academic excellence through the provision of K–12 educational materials and support services. www.bjupresshomeschool. com

Build Your Library

A literature based homeschool curriculum that is secular www.buildyourlibrary.com

Calvert Education School

Calvert Education is a Christian based, homeschool curriculum, that uses a blend of traditional textbooks and online learning. www.calvertschool.org/home-school

Discovery K12

7 standard courses: Language Arts, Reading/Literature, Math, Science, History/Social Studies, Visual/Performing Arts, and Physical Education. www.discoveryk12.com/dk12

Five in a Row

Before Five in a Row opens up the world of learning through great books and creative play, and builds the solid foundation needed for more formal education to come. Also see: Before Five in a Row, Beyond Five in a Row.

Heart of Dakota

Heart of Dakota publishes a Christ-centered homeschool curriculum that is easy to use, flexible, and educational. carmikeaustin@msn.com www.heartofdakota.com

www.fiveinarow.com

Hoffman Academy

Guest Hollow

www.hoffmanacademy.com

Learn piano online.

Guest Hollow features curricula stuffed full of great books, activities, videos, recipes, and more, as well as educational materials and printables designed to help make teaching and learning easier, while engaging both gifted and reluctant learner. www.guesthollow.com

Home School Share

Homeschool Share (HSS) is a on-line cooperative effort of several homeschooling moms to provide free but quality literature-based unit studies and resources. www.homeschoolshare.com

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My Father’s World

My Father’s World is Christian based and utilize hands on, unit studies with daily lesson plans that are easy to teach. info@mfwbooks.com www.mfwbooks.com

Oak Meadow

Oak Meadow offers a complete curriculum for at home use or you can enroll online to receive academic credit.

Keystone National High School www.keystonehighschool.com

info@oakmeadow.com www.oakmeadow.com

Free tools for parents and teachers. www.khanacademy.org

Saxon Curriculum

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Timberdoodle offers Curriculum Kits containing our company’s favorite picks for each grade level. customerservice@timberdoodle.com www.timberdoodle.com

Veritas Press

Saxon teaches the foundational skills of math and reading. Christaianbook.com offers the Saxon curriculum series of textbooks and materials. www.christianbook.com

Sonlight Curriculum

Sonlight uses a classical Christian approach to education. Please visit our website for more infor-

At Veritas Press we specialize in providing educational materials for a classical Christian education. info@veritaspress.com www.veritaspress.com

WinterPromise

WinterPromise strives to provide activities that are exciting for kids and realistic for parents! winterpromise@gmail.com www.winterpromise.com

Camps kick off MAY 28, 2018!

A leader in educational summer camps for over 15 years!

airbus Flight academy • 3d printing •JUNIOR MED CAMP • SPACE CADETS • ASTRO-TOTS • dinosaur dig • csi Mobile • & more! Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

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Math-U-See

www.mobymax.com

Tapestry of Grace uses a Classical approach to education through a plan of study that helps parents provide Christian, education using a guided unit study approach.

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Timberdoodle Company

www.milestonebooks.com

Moby Learning includes 27 complete subjects covering all grades between kindergarten and eighth grade.

Tapestry of Grace

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www.openculture.com

info@konos.com www.konos.com

Moby Max

www.spellingcity.com

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We use the entire library as a textbook and the whole world as our curriculum. Christian based.

www.mathusee.com

VocabularySpellingCity empowers students to study independently through engaging gamebased learning activities.

www.Teachingtextbooks.com

Bible-based curriculum and character-building storybooks, helping build a solid Christian education for schools and homeschools.

Math-U-See is designed to teach students specific skills that build as the student progresses.

Ala

Spelling City

Open Culture

Rod & Staff Curricula

KONOS

www.sonlight.com

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Teaching Textbooks is designed to make learning math in a homeschool setting the best possible experience.

Learn 48 Languages Online for Free: Spanish, Chinese, English & More.

Khan Academy

mation, request a free catalog or take part in the forums.

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Educational Apps/Links Alabama Drivers Permit Test

encourage church school admin., support group leaders and homeschoolers throughout the state for the glory of God. Our goal is to encourage and equip you.

Brain Pop/ Brain Pop Jr.

(205) 699-0721 president@chefofalabama.org www.chefofalabama.org

Chalkdust.com

Homeschool State Laws

DIY.org Duolingo Happy Math PBS Kids Physics Monster Presidents Rocket Math

Stack the States

Getting Started State Laws CHEF – Christian Home Education Fellowship of Alabama

CHEF is Alabama’s official state home education organization. We are associated with the National Alliance of Christian Home Education Leadership (NACHEL). We exists to connect, support and

Homeschool State Law is a resourceful website for new and veteran homeschoolers. you will see these 7 main categories: Required Age of Attendance, notify the district, qualify, hours of instruction, required subjects, keep records, and testing. www.homeschoolstatelaws.com

Home School Legal Defense Association is a nonprofit advocacy organization established to defend the constitutional right of parents and to protect family freedoms. HLDSA gives families the freedom to homeschool without having to face legal threats alone. (540) 338-5600 www.hslda.org

High School Helps & Transcripts Testing/ Record Keeping

wwww.pottersschool.org

Home School on YouTube British Movietone is arguably the world’s greatest newsreel archive, spanning the period 1895 – 1986.

Crash Course Kids

This bi-weekly show from the producers of Crash Course is all about gradeschool science. We’ll look at Earth, Habitats, Space, Chemical Reactions, Engineering, and much much more with host Sabrina Cruz.

Free School

FreeSchool is a safe and friendly place to expose children to famous art, classical music, children’s literature, and natural science in an age-appropriate and kid-accessible way.

The Potter School (TPS)

Offering any course you need online through Belhaven University. Also check the website for information on Accredited vs. non-accredited. www.pottersschool.org

www.homeschoolcounselor.com for web-based service offering supplemental essential tools for dads,

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Offering any course you need online through Belhaven University. Also check the website for information on Accredited vs. non-accredited.

British Movietone

HSLDA (Homeschool Legal Defense Association)

HomeschoolCounselor.com

www.HomeschoolCounselor.com

Potter School

Smithsonian Stack the Countries

moms and each homeschool student ages 13-20. Work on reading comprehension, time testing, deadlines, time management, and note taking.

Homeschool Pop

We are an early elementary learning video channel, focusing on curriculum based education for Kindergarten, First Grade and Second Grade students! Subscribe to our channel for more videos every week, and comment below for a chance to be featured on our next program!

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine


make us ask “why?”

TED-Ed

Within TED-Ed’s growing library of TED-Ed animations, you will find carefully curated educational videos, many of which represent collaborations between talented educators and animators nominated through the TED-Ed website. www.ed.ted.com

Kids Learning Tube

Kids Learning Tube educates both kids and adults through music and animation in a fun and unique approach to learning.

Math & Learning Videos 4 Kids

We provide Amazing Math and Learning Videos that teach Math and early learning concepts to Toddlers and Elementary Students. We use 3D animation to provide the students with a fun and engaging way to learn these skills necessary for older grades.

National Geographic Kids

Discover the very best of YouTube on Nat Geo Kids!

SciShow Kids

SciShow Kids explores all those curious topics that

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

Co-Ops & Communities Baldwin Christian Home Educators’ Association (BCHE)

Fairhope, AL 36532 BCHEA, a nonprofit, volunteer-based, organization, exists to provide support and communication to families in the Baldwin County, Alabama area who choose to educate their children at home. BCHEA operates from a decidedly Christian worldview and will represent the homeschool community in a manner that consistently and forthrightly honors Jesus Christ. BCHEA seeks to provide an arena for fellowship, service, discipleship, the exchange of information and ideas, and the sharing of inspiration, resources, talents and skills. bchea2009@gmail.com or bonnie.brackin@gmail.com www.bchea.org

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Classical Conversations

Baldwin County AL We believe that parents are the best teachers for their children. Request a team member to contact you to learn more about enriching your child’s classical Christian homeschool education. Classical Conversations is committed to helping families homeschool successfully through high school. Our program offers accountability and support from like-minded parents, rich downloadable resources, online forums & video tutorials, community (In-person & online), encouragement & fellowship, tried & trusted learning framework with recommended assignments, parent-trained tutors that model the Classical approach. Please see Upcoming Events in this directory for information on our 3-Day Practicum.

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Navigators Homeschool Co-Op Baldwin County

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Navigators Homeschool Cooperative is a Christ centered co-op who exist to disciple our children, encourage moms, and serve our community. thenavigators@info.com www.facebook.com/NavigatorsHomeschoolCooperative/

North Baldwin Christian Academy

2706 Scarlet Drive Bay Minette, AL 36507 We are a church school covering and a Christian homeschool support group. We schedule regular field trips and social time for our members. North Baldwin Christian is an active NETWORK SUPPORT GROUP in our community encouraging Families to be comfortable with their choice and religious right to home educate their children. (251) 937-1199 heheadquarters@yahoo.com www.northbaldwinchristianacademy.wordpress.org

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SAH - University of Mobile Homeschool Alliance Group

The University now offers a homeschool co-op for homeschool high school students, ages 13 and up, along with many homeschool workshops for all ages. Contact Erin Wainwright at the above email for more information! Join our Facebook page for information on group events. etw501@yahoo.com www.facebook.com/South-Alabama-Homeschoolers-402045049860845/

Unity on the Eastern Shore

22979 U.S. Highway 98 Fairhope, AL 36532 Susie Glickman, Academy Administrator. Christian based, non denominational homeschool program. (251) 990-8934 unityeasternshore@live.com www. unityontheeasternshore.org

Erin’s Gulf Coast Homeschool Adventures

Admin: Erin Wainwright, etw501@yahoo.com. Also found on Facebook. etw501@yahoo.com www.erinsgulfcoasthomeschooladventures.com

Homeschool Teacher Discount Cards Office Max Barnes & Noble Books-A-Million Joanne’s Fabrics Scholastic.com Photoshop (student edition) www.homeschoolbuyerscoop.com

Misc. Classes, Clubs and Civic Opportunities

swimming pools as well as drylands equipment for homeschool fitness programs.

Bay City Gymnastics

Gulf Coast Exploreum

7980 American Way Daphne, AL 36526 Bay City Gymnastics offers classes during the day for homeschool families. Please call for details.

65 Government Street Mobile, AL 36604 Gulf Coast Exploreum offers science classes for the homeschool year. Classes fill quickly.

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(251) 621-2112 bcgagym@att.net www.bcgagymnastics.com

Coastal Youth Orchestra ad on page 61

251 Greeno Road Fairhope, AL 36532 Coastal Youth Orchestra offers Beginner Violin & Cello Class, Coastal Homeschool Performing Orchestra Coastal Homeschool Marching Band*, Coastal Homeschool Beginner Band, coastal Homeschool Choir. Conductor: Kim Shannon,Certified Teacher in Music Education, University of Alabama-Strings, Band and Voice. 30 years experience, Member of the Alabama Orchestra Association and Alabama Bandmasters Association. Superior-Straight 1’s at State MPA. Groups perform at least once a month in Baldwin County, AL. (251) 463-6009 fairhopechamberstrings@gmail.com

Eastern Shore Aquatics ad on page 65

10580 County Road 64 Daphne, AL 36526 Homeschool swim program available! Twice weekly, 1pm - 2pm, $45/month, Three or more time per week is $60/month. Programs run Monday – Friday from September – May. The facility has two

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

ad on page 56

(251) 208-6818 hfreeman@exploreum.com www.exploreum.com

4-H Clubs

Archery, Junior Master Gardener, Leadership, Animal Sciences and more. (251) 574-8445 sfb0010@auburn.edu www.offices.aces.edu/mobile

Alabama Gulf Coast Guardians (AGCG 4-H)

1070 Schillinger Road North Mobile, AL 36608 A community-based club accepting ages 5-18. Meetings are once a month and usually held at the Jon Archer Agricultural Center. Activities include Science based activities, community service, campouts, rocket activities, hikes and competitive events. Please call or email to join our group. (251) 574-8445 cda0019@aces.edu

American Heritage Girls Troop AL3130 (Loxley Baptist Church)

1050 North Alabama Street Loxley, AL 36551 American Heritage Girls is the premier national character development organization for girls ages 5-18 that embraces Christian values and encourages family involvement. Visit our Facebook page or call for meeting information.

(850) 791-4607 or (850) 572-5063 ewgolson@gmail. com www.americanheritagegirls.org

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Baldwin County Youth Orchestra

6847 Park Drive Daphne, AL 36526 We offer something for everyone! We have strings groups for age groups from 6 to 99. Also offering summer camps, music lessons and performances to homeschool students during the day. Please call or email us for more information about getting your homeschool student involved in music fun!

Baldwin County Community Alliance

372 South Greeno Road Fairhope, AL 36532 The Baldwin County Community Alliance (BCCA) is a group of several community agencies who meet monthly to discuss ways to educate and bring awareness about underage drinking and prescription drug abuse by Baldwin County youth. The BCCA hosts a multitude of events, programs and contests that are open to all Middle and High school students. Some of the opportunities that BCCA hosts are Baldwin Star Search, 30 second commercial contest, a Billboard contest, National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, Prescription Drug disposal drop boxes and other educational activities. Visit us on Facebook at Baldwin County Community Alliance. Please contact us to find out how your group or organization can get involved. (251) 517-1275 or (251) 990-4233 ldm_bcmhc@ yahoo.com www.proudtobefreebaldwin.org

(251) 979-6834 bcyorchestra@gmail.com www.bcyorchestra.com

Boy Scouts

2587 Government Boulevard Mobile, AL 36606 The Boy Scouts of America is one of the nation’s largest and most prominent values-based youth development organizations. (251) 476-4600 www.bsamac.org

Civil Air Patrol U.S. Air Force Auxiliary

2495 Michigan Avenue Mobile , AL 36615 Meetings are held at the Brookley Aerospace Complex Mobile Downtown Airport at the Signature Fixed Base Operator (FBO). Charter Number SER AL005. Unit Contact: Gilbert F Wright. (540) 907-8055 CAPMobileCompositeSquadron@ gmail.com www.facebook.com/MobileCAP

Cottage Hill Junior Civitan Program

Mobile, Cottage Hill Junior Civitan is a service club

for young people to Build Good Citizenship in the home, school, community, and nation. The purpose of Junior Civitan is to develop servant leaders, and encourage young people to focus on living the Golden Rule in all relationships. We are the only home school community service club in Mobile County. Participants are typically ages 12 -18 years of age. The program runs from August - May each year and is open to Mobile and Baldwin County homeschool groups. Find our Facebook Group and request to join, or send us a message!

(251) 623-9786

Distinguished Young Women

751 Government Street Mobile, AL 36602 Distinguished Young Women is a national scholarship program that inspires high school girls to develop their full, individual potential through a fun, transformative experience that culminates in a celebratory showcase of their accomplishments. Distinguished Young Women strives to give every young woman the opportunity to further her education and prepare for a successful future. (251) 438-3621 valerie@distinguishedyw.org www.distinguishedyw.org

Dogwood Trail Maids

617 North Mobile Street Fairhope, AL 36532 The Dogwood Trail program has been a tradition on the Eastern Shore for 58 years. Sponsored by the Eastern Shore Optimist Club, the program prides itself on its mission to further the progress of local young women by offering opportunities to learn leadership, public speaking and life skills that will equip them to achieve their personal and professional goals. Each court member receives a $1,250 scholarship, and a period costume to be worn during their term. The Dogwood Trail Court makes approximately 90 appearances as Goodwill Ambassadors for our community. (251) 990-8899 thedogwoodtrail@gmail.com www.facebook.com/Dogwood-Trail-Court

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Fairhope Music

247 South Greeno Road Fairhope, AL 36532 Music lessons for all ages and abilities. Classes available during the day for homeschool students. Summer camps and other programs offered. Please visit our Facebook page for updates.

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5248 Mobile South Street Theodore, AL 36582 Feeding the Gulf Coast, (Formerly Bay Area Food Bank), has 3 branches. Our Main branch located in Theodore, and branches in Milton, Fl and Gulfport, Ms. Together we distribute over 24 million pounds of food annually within 24-county service areas. The food bank offers many programs including Child Nutrition, Community Garden, Cooking Classes, Mobile Pantry, and Disaster Relief. Please call or email us to have your homeschool group get involved with one of our programs. (251) 653-1617 tmorgan@feedingthegulfcoast.org www.feedingthegulfcoast.org

Girl Scouts

3483 Springhill Avenue Mobile, AL 36608 Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place!

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We are a Christian based youth drama club in Baldwin County comprised primarily of home-schooled students 3-18 years old. Patti Woods – Director. Find us on Facebook, Friends of Impact Youth Theater.

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(251) 599-0716 impactyouththeater@gmail.com

Junior Civitan is an organization of youth service clubs dedicated to making the world a better place. Cottagehilljuniorcivitan@yahoo.com www.sites.google.com/site/cottagehilljuniorcivitan/home

MACH Robotics - Mobile Area Coalition of Homeschoolers

MACH is the Mobile Area Coalition of Homeschoolers. MACH Robotics is our local homeschool division of BEST Robotics. MACH Robotics is a student led-organization in which 6th-12th grade students participate in a 6-week competition in the fall of each year. machrobotics@hotmail.com www.machrobotics4.wix. com/mach-robotics

Marjorie Searcy Vocal Coach

Fairhope, AL 36532 Offering lessons to homeschool students during the day. Visit our website for more information. (251) 509-2150 info@marjoriesearcy.com www.marjoriesearcy.com

Mobile Bay Area Homeschool National Honor Society www.lambdazeta.webs.com

NASP – National Archery in the Schools Program - Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Montgomery, AL The National Archery in the Schools Program is open to students in 4th 12th grades and enrolled in public, private and homeschool programs in Alabama. The goal of this program is to allow students to become involved in a life skill that has no barriers. Archery in the Schools is designed to teach Junior Olympic Archery Development as part of an in-school curriculum to improve educational performance and participation. (800) 245-2740 Marisa.Futral@dcnr.alabama.gov www.outdooralabama.com/programs/alabamaarchery-schools

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Character, and Leadership Program for boys and young men. K-12.

(321) 247-7761 Contact@TrailLifeUSA.com www.traillifeusa.com

U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps

8501 Tanner Williams Road Mobile, AL 36608 Dunlap Division located at US Coast Guard Aviation Training Center

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Testing Academic Records by Classical Conversations

Professionally formatted student records, report cards, GPA calculations, transcripts, and immunization records. Additionally, student resume builder summarizes extracurricular activities, awards/achievements, competitions, community/missions service, work experience & conduct reports. www.academicrecords.net

Classical Conversations www.academicrecords.net

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Steinway Piano Gallery, Spanish Fort

11247 US-31 Spanish Fort, AL 36527 Music classes for piano, violin, viola and voice offered during the day for homeschool students. (251) 990-1082 www.steinwayes.com

TeenPact

State Coordinator: Natalie Conrad; Teen Pact was founded with a mission to train youth to understand the political process, value their liberty, and defend

the Christian Faith. The 4 day event is for ages 13-18 in Montgomery during the legislative session. Also available 1 day class for ages 8-12. Follow TeenPact on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to stay connected with the latest updates. (402) 517-2553 alabama@teenpact.com www.teenpact.com

www.fivejs.com/homeschool-gradebook-freedownload

Homeschool Skedtrack

www.homeschoolskedtrack.com

HSLDA Elem/Middle School

www.hslda.org/earlyyears/Testing.asp#Common

HSLDA High School

Trail Life

Trail Life USA is a Christian Outdoor Adventure,

www.hslda.org/highschool/testing.asp

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Iowa, Cat, TerraNova, Stanford 10 www.Setontesting.com

What career is right for me

Take the most popular career aptitude test on the internet and discover the careers that are best for you. www.whatcareerisrightforme.com

Upcoming Events CHEF of Alabama Homeschool Convention & Curriculum Fair (Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church)

5080 Cahaba Valley Trace Birmingham, AL 35242 Friday & Saturday June 22 - 23, 2018 from 8am 5pm. Join families from all over Alabama for the annual Alabama Homeschool Convention and Curriculum Fair. Speakers will include Steve & Megan Scheibner, Bob & Debby Sjogren, and Chuck Black. Workshops are held throughout the day, as well as teen programs, and children’s programs. National and local curricula providers will be on site. For full convention information and online registration visit our website. Contact our Convention Coordinator Mark Holden for questions. (205) 699-0712 markholden56@gmail.com www.chefofalabama.org

Homeschool Resources Resale

3661 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36608 Saturday, May 19th at Dauphin Way Baptist Church. See Facebook for more information.

Moms’ Saturday School

Live online events covering home school related topics. Mamas helping mamas. www.momssaturdayschool.com

Teach Them Deligently Homeschool Expo

1 South Water Street Mobile, AL 36602 May 3rd-5th. Teach Them Diligently Convention, a Christian homeschool event, is thrilled to be coming to Mobile for the first time! Last year tens of thousands of people attended Teach Them Diligently conventions across the U.S. Families love the camaraderie, energy, and encouragement of this homeschool event. There is something for everyone—moms, dads, littles, and teens—and there are unique sessions and opportunities specifically designed for families with special needs. For more information or to register visit www.teachthemdiligently.net. Use discount code PARENTS10 to save $10 off your registration. www.teachthemdiligently.com

Downtown Fairhope 335 • Fairhope Avenue

Classical Conversations 3-Day Practicum 7100 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, AL 36527 June 21, 22, 23. Classical Conversations Free 3-Day Practicum at Faith Family Fellowship offers fellowship for parents as we pursue deeper understading of how to homeschool our students in the classical Christain tradition. You will find a community of local families, eager to explore the classical model of educatin and tools that make learning all subjects with all their children satisfying. www.members.classicalconversations.com/events/ get-event/node/148430

Additional Resources

We will teach your child to be stronger, “bully-proof”, more confident, & better prepared D ITE S N to face the challenges of life! U ATE T

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www.123homeschool4me.com

Beautiful Feet History and Science Curriculum

This site offers classic and historic works that nurture a love for reading. www.bfbooks.com

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

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“Pay As You Go”- No Contracts

BAY MINETTE 232-7598

Family Discount

SEMMES 786-5425

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Children’s Books (Homeschool Discount Products)

We strive to give you the best products at the best prices. All of our employees are either homeschool parents or homeschool graduates. We have all used a variety of different curricula. Our website contains a wide assortment of curricula and books.

Bellerophon Books

Bellerophon Books publishes very inexpensive books of Ancient History, American History, Archeology, Native American Art and History, Natural History, Music History, English Literature, and much more! Our books are entertaining, beautiful; exceedingly edificatory, and they sell like crazy!

childrensbooks@ earthlink.net www.homeschool

discountproducts.com

Christian Liberty Press

sales@bellerophonbooks.com www.bellerophonbooks.com

You will find that our programs, materials, and services will effectively aid you in the education of your students. We look forward to helping you provide students with a Christ-centered curriculum. Christian Liberty Press contains a large assortment for the Christ centered biblical approach.

Cathy Duffy Reviews

custserv@homeschools.org or custserv@ christianliberty.com www.shopchristianliberty.com

Cathy Duffy Reviews provides information on several different curriculum options. www.cathyduffyreviews.com

Chem4kids

We have information on matter, atoms, elements, the periodic table, reactions and biochemistry. www.chem4kids.com

Greenleaf Press

We strive to be the best resources for teaching history and literature chronologically. www.greenleafpress.com

Hands of a Child

We provide quality lap booking materials for all

educators, homeschooling families and classroom teachers. www.handsofachild.com

Hearthsong

An age-appropriate, wholesome, quality playthings. What better way to help your children learn than having tons of fun through play! www.hearthsong.com

Home Science Tools

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We carry affordable Science tools and kits for hands on experimentation. www.hometrainingtools.com

Homeschool Super Center

We are in the business of helping parents find the best homeschool curriculum for each student. We also carry resources that will help get you started with homeschooling as well as guides to the best, homeschool friendly curriculum for your student. www.homeschoolsupercenter.com

Institute for Excellence in Writing

In order to succeed in every area of life, children must hone the skills needed to communicate confidently and effectively. Whether your students are eager learners or reluctant writers, IEW’s approach will give the tools you need to confidently teach your students to write well, think clearly, and express themselves. Learning to write well will serve children not only during their school years, but also into college and throughout their adult lives. The process of learning to write well also teaches students how to think clearly and communicate effectively in every area of life. info@IEW.com www.iew.com

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IXL

IXL provides comprehensive, standards-aligned math and language arts practice for grades K–12. www.ixl.com

Learning Things - The Education Store

We carry products for Science, Math, History, Economics, Art, Bible Studies, career skills, English, computer skills, Geography and the list goes on and on! www.learningthings.com

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Mindware

The nation’s best resource for educational toys for kids and learning toys for kids that engages and entertains. Whatever learning toys you select, we guarantee that your children will learn—and have fun—while they play! www.mindware.com

Pandia Press

Pandia Press is committed to publishing comprehensive, secular, and engaging courses. Our products are utilized worldwide by home educators, co-ops, charter schools, and private schools. www.pandiapress.com

PBS Learning Media

PBS LearningMedia is THE destination for highquality, trusted digital content and solutions that inspire students and transform learning. www.aptv.pbslearningmedia.org

Prodigy Game

Our Mission is to have the most engaging and effective educational game possible in order to improve educational standards worldwide! www.prodigygame.com

Rainbow Resource Center

We currently carry over 40,000 quality educational products in all subject areas, for grades PK-12 and beyond! www.rainbowresource.com/index.php

Real Science 4 Kids

Real Science-4-Kids introduces kids to the core disciplines of science. Students learn chemistry, biology, physics, geology, and astronomy. We offer a Science Curriculum from Preschool to High school. www.gravitaspublications.com

ROCK Solid

Rock Solid offers popular homeschool products like Bob Jones, Alpha Omega, Apologia, Horizons, Switched On School House and Explode the Code. www.rocksolidinc.com

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The Great Courses Plus

The Great Courses Plus is a subscription Video-On-Demand service brought to you by The Great Courses – the leading global media brand for lifelong learning and personal enrichment. www.greatcoursesplus.com

The Homeschool Resource Roadmap

The Homeschool Resource Roadmap provides current and prospective homeschooling parents with summative information about more than 3,200 homeschooloriented resources in over 300 different content areas. www.hsroadmap.org/about-2

Virtual Homeschool Group Serving free ‘at your own pace’ (ayop) and live online courses for home school families for 12 years. www.virtualhomeschoolgroup.org

Yesterday’s Classics

Science Kids

If you’re looking for some fun science experiments for kids then you’ve come to the right place. Check out our free experiments section, full of fascinating hands-on experiments that are a great way to enjoy the world of science. www.sciencekids.co.nz/experiments.html

Scratch

With Scratch, you can program your own interactive stories, games, and animations — and share your

creations with others in the online community. www.scratch.mit.edu

Store for Knowledge

Store for Knowledge offers thousands of products ranging from every educational subject. We carry a large variety of kits, models and toys. For customer service and other help email Help@StoreforKnowledge.com. Help@StoreforKnowledge.com www.storeforknowledge.com

Yesterday’s Classics offers a collection of books from a wide variety of subjects and categories, with special emphasis on history, literature, and natural history. lisa@mainlesson.com www.yesterdaysclassics.com

Zoom Kitchen Chemistry

Explore the virtual kitchen and perform online experiments. Solve puzzles and get a reward! Choose from animated games and activities. www.pbskids.org/zoom/games/kitchenchemistry

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NEW PRESCHOOL!

Enrollment Now Open! Introducing the Eastern Shore’s newest FULL-DAY preschool. Now accepting applications for children 30+ months of age. Enrollment deadline: May 31

Contact: Shelley Miller, 251-928-2912

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A Page in a Book Loving the Local Library From ancient times when clay tablets and scrolls were collected together for scholarly use to today’s immense digital collections, libraries have evolved into vital collection points for science, history, culture and stories that reflect the human experience. As perhaps the most inquisitive humans of all, children are important patrons of our modern libraries. Free and entertaining, today’s libraries strive to provide exciting opportunities that introduce new readers to their collections. The following titles celebrate the library and its welcoming service to every young mind in search of stories - old and new.

Willy’s Stories

by Anthony Browne (Candlewick Press) Every week, Willy passes through the doors that send him on amazing adventures. Told in the first person, the main character, Willy, uses each two-page spread to relate his personalized adventures that launched from behind those doors, each tale left open-ended with an opportunity for the reader to contribute their thoughts on the action. Inspired by tales from the famous authors of children’s literature, each narrative offers a taste of stories that demand further exploration and invite readers to pass through ‘the doors’ near them. Without mentioning the word ‘library’ once, Browne’s rich storytelling and illustrations easily convey the wellspring of stories that launch Willy’s flights of imagination - and where young readers can also find the ultimate source of adventure.

A Big Surprise for Little Card

by Charise Mericle Harper, Illustrated by Anna Raff (Candlewick) Living among fellow cards who each have a very specialized task, Little Card is eager for the day when he discovers what job he will be selected to perform. When Little Card is sent to Happy Birthday Card school for training, he’s elated to learn all the tricks of the celebration trade. But a mix-up in assignments reveals that Little Card was not supposed to be a Birthday Card and he’s whisked away to a building full of books to perform his true task. While his loud “Happy Birthday” shout must be muted, Little Card soon discovers that the fun activities and the rainbow of books in his new environment offer all new adventures to celebrate. An ideal introduction to kids who are about to receive their first library card, this title also offers a gentle primer on best behaviors in a library setting.

The New LiBEARian

by Alison Donald, Illustrated by Alex Willmore (Clarion / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) The children are all in place for storytime at the library, but Ms. Merryweather who reads the stories is late. Restless and ready for a story, the assembled kids disperse to find their missing storyteller. Ranging through the maze of bookshelves they discover paw prints leading to the librarian’s desk (which is sticky with honey). And sitting in Ms. Merryweather’s chair is a new librarian, a big character covered in fur with not much to say. The kids clamor for a story but the new librarian’s storytelling style consists mostly of roars, growls and stomping. When Ms. Merryweather returns, apologizing for her delay, she’s ready to read ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’ to the children. But the picture book is missing one of its most important characters! With a sweet twist at the end for observant fans of fables and storytime, ‘The New Libearian’ offers a wink and a nod to the immersive nature of group storytelling at the library. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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One of the pitfalls of having holidays that focus on giving gifts to others is that we become a society of scorecard keepers. How did I do? Did I get more gifts than last year? Were the gifts given with genuine sincerity or did I sense feelings of obligation? Do I measure how others treat me as proof of how worthy I am? Here’s a little secret about gift giving and receiving on any occasion, moms. It’s not a competition. You are not the best mom ever if you get the most presents. You are the best mom ever if you let yourself feel good about the job you are doing every day, even on the most challenging days. And if you want a gift, whether you feel you deserve something special or simply because you think you should always feel treasured, go ahead and give yourself one. Be generous with yourself every time of year and others will follow suit during special times. Being a great mom means putting your needs first, instead of delegating that job to others and feeling resentful if they let you down. Here’s a little secret: other people can’t let you down if you don’t let yourself down. So pick yourself up during the mom-gifting time of year with a little reward for yourself. You always deserve something special just for being you.

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Foofy drinks. For her birthday lunch my daughter wanted

Self-care. A quick nap. A long bath with bath salts and

Exposure to nature. The civilized world gallops at a break-

Fresh flowers. Flowers are love. Love grows in the yard and I’m always expanding that repertoire of choices. Others come from small bouquets at the market I can mix and match. If you are feeling cynical about the gift of flowers, try a more playful approach.

Your favorite books and magazines. Few things make me cheerier than a glossy new seasonal magazine. Books inspire movies in our minds. Even the Internet with all of its diverse content cannot replace my insatiable thirst for hunkering down, one spread at a time, and escaping into artfully photographed and delightfully designed magazine pages. Don’t ever deprive yourself of your daily allotment of mental escape.

Scents you love. Jasmine. Lemon. Rose. Cinnamon. Juniper. Cookies fresh from the oven! You control your environment, so make it smell wonderful to you.

a tropical drink with a tiny umbella in it. And you deserve a tiny umbrella too, mom. Or maybe a dollop of whipped dream with a chocolate swirl or a little heart design atop your coffee foam.

bubbles. Saying no to everything that does not feel like a yes. Asking for hugs. I’d be willing to bet that moms who practice self-care live longer. For sure, they live happier.

neck pace. But nature helps us slow down to the incremental speed of life. The seeds we plant don’t sprout overnight. And we can regain our patience and our pacing by frequent exposure to the earth, air, sun, and stars.

Self-expression. Be your insouciant self today and every day. What does this mean to you? If you are holding your breath, biting your tongue, biding your time, or practicing any other delay tactics that prevent you from living your life with the volume cranked up, seek assistance. Get around folks who lure you out of your shell and validate all the gifts you have to offer the world.

Belly laughs. I was on the phone with an old friend the

other day and the laughs just came cascading out. Nothing like chuckling over old antics or sharing a giggle with someone who has known you forever. Get your kicks in whatever way works for you and the cascading endorphins are an extra, feel-good bonus. Streaming sitcoms or reading comics also works well in a pinch.

Surprises. Don’t wait for others to catch you off guard.

Delight yourself with little impulsive decisions that make you happy now. A surprise isn’t just a big, painstakingly planned party. It’s at least 20 opportunities a day to be sweeter to yourself. Go ahead, choose differently. ESP

Delicious food. Keep at-home copies of your favorite take-

out menus. Sometimes mom needs someone else to do the meal prep, cooking, and serving. Besides, sitting down to be waited on every once in a while is a great way to power up your inner chef. Bon appétit!

Author, journalist, and writing coach Christina Katz definitely deserves more treats in her life. Luckily she never feels deprived because she gives herself enough to keep herself feeling fortunate.

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Marriage Turmoil Affects Your Teen Marriage is sometimes hard. Anyone who says differently either hasn’t been married, or is selling you something. What I want to remind parents of today is that marriage turmoil doesn’t stay contained between mom and dad. Each member of a family is connected to every other member. That means your conflict with your spouse almost always spills over into the relationship with your teen. Now, I don’t say this to lay a guilt trip on parents who are struggling in their marriage. Nor is this article designed to settle spousal disagreements. But some of the problems your teen is facing now could be the byproduct of the tension, anxiety and worry he feels as mom and dad work on their own relationship. I’d like to show you how to handle marriage conflict well, so that in turn, your teen will learn how to handle turmoil in a healthy way.

Emotional Isolation

When mom and dad start to drift apart, the family as a whole starts to fragment. As relationships in the house continue to shift and separate, pretty soon everyone becomes their own private island. It’s like having disconnected strangers living under one roof. No one is working as a team. No one is manning the walls and looking out for the family, and so feelings, events, and important moments begin to slip through the cracks. I asked one young girl in our counseling program how she was doing. It was a simple question and I expected a simple “doing okay” answer. Instead, the young lady proceeded to tell me everything about herself; everything she ever did, everything she ever accomplished, everywhere she had ever traveled and every talent she had. She told me all her hopes and dreams, and all her disappointments and failures in one breathless dissertation. She wanted me to know she is worth something and she pled her case based on her accomplishments. When she took a breath, I finally got a chance to wedge in a better question that might open a real dialogue. Her demeanor completely changed when I asked, “What’s the most difficult thing that has happened in your life?” Her chattering stopped, her eyes welled up with tears, and she replied, “When my dad left, I felt all alone.” Suddenly, there was silence. I stood looking at her for a few seconds and instead of trying to come up with the right words to say, I just gave her a hug. Finally, a real connection was made. Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

Don’t allow emotional isolation to leave your teen feeling all alone.

Physical Isolation

Divorce or separation can definitely lead teens to feel physically isolated. But this can happen when parents are together, as well. Sometimes it takes the form of dad spending nights and weekends at the office, and away from the family. Or maybe it looks like mom devoting her free moments to various boards, committees and volunteer work, and never being home. We know the devastation divorce can bring on kids. But being married and always apart can do similar damage. Just like kids who feel emotionally isolated, kids who feel physically isolated from mom and dad will look elsewhere to fill the void in their lives. They may choose to spend little or no time at home. They’ll be prone to seek a sense of “family” elsewhere, usually with a peer group where it is easy to find acceptance and form attachments. Or your teen may try to imitate mom and dad by throwing themselves into school, sports, video games, friends, or social media in order to experience the feelings only quality time with parents can offer.

Putting It In Perspective

Now let’s look at some positive ways we can help and protect our teens even if our marriage is stormy. First, understand that your child is affected by your relationship with your spouse. Even

fights behind closed doors aren’t hidden from kids. They can feel the tension and sense the conflict. If you and your spouse aren’t working together and your marriage isn’t strong, your teen will know it—and may try to use it against you. I’ve had parents say to me, “We just can’t see eye to eye.” My reply is, “Then get counseling and fix it.” Don’t let pride keep you from doing what your kid—and your marriage—needs. You can’t get your marriage, or your family, where you want it to go without guidance and direction from others, and if you don’t stop and ask for help, chances are you’ll end up somewhere you never wanted to be. No one sets out to create a broken family, but without getting counsel and advice from others, you’re likely to create one anyways. 72

If your teen sees his parents working through their problems with a counselor, it will give him hope that his situation can be resolved as well. Don’t be afraid to share some of those struggles with him in the context of working toward a solution. Saying “We’re going to remain strong even when don’t agree” gives the child license to feel loved and accepted even in the midst of family conflict. Second, you’re not in the seventh-grade anymore, so don’t blame your spouse in front of the kids. Your teen doesn’t need to hear why his

mom can be hard to live with, or why her dad is inconsiderate. If you need someone to talk to about the problems in your marriage, find a pastor, counselor or friend. Do not air your dirty laundry in front of your child. Remember, spending time with your teen confers on them a sense of value that no one else can give. Even in the midst of working on your marriage, make sure to spend regular time with your teen. If you have the freedom to do it, take them to lunch, grab a snack after school, attend all games or school events, and communicate online. Send regular text messages to say “Hi,” or, “I love you.” Make sure your teen knows your desire to be involved in his or her life, or they’ll seek validation from someone else, and that can lead to bigger problems than you ever want to have with your teen. Lastly, Mom and Dad need to protect their marriage above all else. In fact, it is more

important than just about anything parents can do to help their kids. Parents who have kids approaching the teen years would be wise to prepare ahead of time by ensuring that they are on the same page, and that the foundations of their marriage are strong. Start taking steps today to guard your marriage from the problems that can arise during the teen years. And for parents who are experiencing difficulties with a teen right now, turn your attention toward your marriage first, to begin the healing process. No marriage is perfect. But the struggles between a husband and wife don’t have to spill over into the lives our teens. Once we realize how interconnected our family relationships are, we can take steps to assure our teens that they are loved, accepted, and valued. 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.

www.easternshoreparents.com


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FamilyCalendar Tuesday May 1

Tour of Fort Morgan (Adults $7.00, Students & Seniors (65+) $5.00, Children (ages 6 to 12) $4.00)

10:00 AM Fort Morgan, 51 AL-180 Gulf Shores, 36542 Living history interpreters will take you on a guided tour of Fort Morgan. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org Fairhope Museum of History “Tea for Two” 2:00 PM Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Mary Ann Ingersoll. Mary Ann is a life-long native of Fairhope. Along with her late husband Charlie, they ran Ingersoll Dairy, Fairhope Dry Cleaners, and for many years was involved in the Fairhope Single Tax Corporation. 251-929-1471 www.cofairhope.com/departments/ museum Tween Minecraft Game (Free) 4:15 PM - 5:30 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Minecraft computer and coding game for Tweens ages 9 - 12 years is held every Tuesday. Sign-ups are required for each Minecraft session. Sign up on Eventbrite.com. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org Teen Minecraft Game (Free) 5:30 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Minecraft computer and coding game for Teens ages 13 - 18 years is held every Tuesday. Sign-ups are required for each Minecraft session. Sign up on Eventbrite.com. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org Bubble Guppies Live 6:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 What time is it? It’s time for Bubble Guppies! Jump into a bubbly world of learning and laughter with Nickelodeon’s Bubble Guppies Live! “Ready to Rock”. 251-208-7261 www. mobilecivicctr.com

Wednesday May 2

Caterpillars Observe and Explore Day (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Graham Creek Nature Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, 36535 Our popular ‘Caterpillars’ theme returns as the focus for our Observe & Explore Event on May 2nd. These fun nature learning workshops are designed for children 10 and under, including educational craft projects, story time and more. FREE for all children and families. 251-923-4267 grahamcreekpreserve.org

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University of Alabama and Dallas Cowboys football player. 251-928-6387 business.eschamber.com Gov’t Mule 7:30 Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Gov’t Mule is back in Mobile at the Saenger Theatre with special guest Black Stone Cherry! www.mobilesaenger.com Fairhope Christian Church Annual Card Party and Luncheon ($15) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Christian Church Fellowship Hall, 349 Fairwood Boulevard Fairhope, 36532 This is the church’s largest fundraiser of the year and proceeds from it benefit several charitable organizations in this community throughout the year. The Card Party will take place in the Fellowship Hall of Fairhope Christian Church where dozens of ladies – and maybe even a few gents – will bring their cards and games for a day filled with challenges and fun. A terrific silent auction will also take place during the day, as well as a delicious luncheon to keep everyone satisfied as they concentrate on winning their favorite game! We hope to see you there! 251-421-5058 Gulf Shores Original Oyster House Hosts Job Fair 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Original Oyster House Gulf Shores Location, 701 Hwy 59 Gulf Shores, 36542 Are you interested in working at one of our area’s best res­taurants known for great seafood, scenery and Southern hospitality? As a member of the Original Oyster House team, you can experience a culture that thrives on exceptional service, employee recognition and financial reward. You’ll work in a fun, casual atmosphere with panoramic waterfront sunsets, work with caring coworkers and seasoned management and enjoy competitive benefits. The Original Oyster House has long-time, loyal employees who value family, integrity and great service. 251-928-2620 www.originaloysterhouse.com/jobs Tour of Fort Morgan (Adults $7.00, Students & Seniors (65+) $5.00, Children (ages 6 to 12) $4.00)

10:00 AM Fort Morgan, 51 AL-180 Gulf Shores, 36542 Living history interpreters will take you on a guided tour of Fort Morgan. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org Brown Bag Concerts 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Mayday Park, Daphne, 36526 Catt’s Brown Bag Concerts - Excelsior Band www.daphneal.com

Rick Bragg - Page & Palette ($35 and include an autographed copy of the book)

6:00 PM Page & Palette, 32 South Section Street Fairhope, 36532 From the beloved, best-selling author of All Over but the Shoutin’, a delectable, rollicking food memoir, cookbook, and loving tribute to a region, a vanishing history, a family, and, especially, to his mother. Including seventy-five mouthwatering Bragg family recipes for classic southern dishes passed down through generations. 251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com

Thursday May 3

34th Annual Mayor’s’ Prayer Breakfast ($40 per

ticket $350 per table of 10)

7:00 AM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 Highway 98 Daphne, 36526 The 34th Annual Mayor’s’ Prayer Breakfast will feature Sherman Williams, former

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

Fairhope Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Behind the Fairhope Library, Fairhope, 36532 Fairhope Farmer’s Market. The Market will offer fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, local honey, plants, fresh cut flowers and more. The Fairhope Public Library will be holding story times and children’s activities at 4:00pm each Thursday at the Market. 251-929-1466 Tween Jedi Circuitry (Free) 4:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Tweens Jedi Circuitry 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org 2018 Lecture Series on Fairhope History (Free) 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library - Giddens

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Auditorium, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Lecture series on the history of Fairhope. The Founding of Fairhope and the Single Tax Influence. 251-928-8162 www.fairhopesingletax.com/

gulfcoastballoonfestival.com

Balloon Glow at Tanger Outlets (Free) 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Tanger Outlets, 2601 S McKenzie Street Foley, 36535 The festival begins with the Tanger Outlet Balloon Glow, weather permitting. Six balloons will set up in the parking lots and inflate balloons to provide a beautiful glow!

Cocktails with Critters 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Bluegill Restaurant, 3775 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort, 36527 This will be an exciting evening overlooking Mobile Bay. For those seeking more thrills, there will be a fantastic silent auction. The Bluegill Restaurant is pulling out all the stops and will be serving fabulous and tasty hors d’oeuvres and wine and beer. www.sealabfoundation.org Newsies: ESRT’s 5th Annual Theatre on the Bluff 7:30 PM The Bluff at Henry George Park, Fairhope, 36532 Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre (ESRT) will bring Disney’s Newsies to Henry George Park in Fairhope for the fifth annual Theatre on the Bluff on May 3-5, 2018. Newsies will be co-directed by Erin Langley and David Redman Scott with choreography by Matthew Kiel. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m., and gates will open at 6:30 each evening. Patrons should bring their own blanket or lawn chair, and picnics are encouraged. Concessions will also be available for purchase. www.eventbrite.com/e/newsies-esrts-5th-annual-theatre-on-the-bluff-tickets-43305921176?aff=efbevent Teach Them Diligently Homeschool Conference Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Teach Them Diligently Convention, a Christian homeschool event, is thrilled to be coming to Mobile for the first time! Last year tens of thousands of people attended Teach Them Diligently conventions across the U.S. Families love the camaraderie, energy, and encouragement of this homeschool event. There is something for everyone—moms, dads, littles, and teens—and there are unique sessions and opportunities specifically designed for families with special needs. For more information or to register visit www.teachthemdiligently.net. Use discount code PARENTS10 to save $10 off your registration. www.teachthemdiligently.net

Friday May 4

3rd Annual Autism Matters Conference 8:00 AM Goodwill Easterseals of the Gulf Coast 2440 Gordon Smith Drive Mobile, 36617 The 3rd Annual Autism Matters Conference in Mobile, Alabama is scheduled for Friday, May 4th, 2018. This conference is co-sponsored by the Autism Society of Alabama and the University of South Alabama Regional Autism Network. 251-259-5553 www.eventbrite.com/e/3rd-annualautism-matters-conference-mobile-alabama-tickets41873438582?aff=es2 3rd Annual Autism Matters Conference 8:00 AM Goodwill Easterseals of the Gulf Coast , 251-259-5553 www.eventbrite.com/e/3rd-annualautism-matters-conference-mobile-alabama-tickets41873438582?aff=es2

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2:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Foley Soccer Complex, 18507 US HWY 98 Foley, 36535 The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is approaching its 14th year of flying! We are excited you are interested in coming to this year’s event that will feature more than 30 balloons from across the country! Come enjoy performances by the World-Famous Disc Connected Canines, musical entertainment, children’s activities and more amid retail, arts & crafts and food booths. Musical headliners follow balloon flights, glows and tethered rides (weather permitting) Friday and Saturday nights. gulfcoastballoonfestival.com

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Tween Jedi Circuitry (Free) 4:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Tweens Jedi Circuitry 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org Dome Head Science: May the Fourth be with You Edition (General admission is $10 for adults or chil-

dren. Member admission pricing is $8 for adults or children. )

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, 36602 “Jedi Physics” with Dr. Albert Gapud, Followed by a viewing of “Return of the Jedi” in the IMAX theater. Albert Gapud, Ph.D., University of South Alabama, Department of Physics. Costumes (family friendly) highly encouraged!

Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail, 2018 Griot Award Gala 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 You are invited to the Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail, 2018 Griot Award Gala. Join us as we celebrate our 2018 Griot Award Recipient, Pulitzer Prizewinning syndicated columnist and popular radio and television commentator, Cynthia Tucker! www.dffaaht.org First Friday Art Walk 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope, 36521Fairhope 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. Seinfeld 7:00 PM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 America’s premier comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, will return to the Port City to perform his signature stand-up routine at the Saenger Theatre. www.mobilesaenger.com Newsies: ESRT’s 5th Annual Theatre on the Bluff 7:30 PM The Bluff at Henry George Park, Fairhope, 36532 Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre (ESRT) will bring Disney’s Newsies to Henry George Park in Fairhope for the fifth annual Theatre on the Bluff on

May 3-5, 2018. Newsies will be co-directed by Erin Langley and David Redman Scott with choreography by Matthew Kiel. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m., and gates will open at 6:30 each evening. Patrons should bring their own blanket or lawn chair, and picnics are encouraged. Concessions will also be available for purchase. www.eventbrite.com/e/newsies-esrts-5th-annual-theatre-on-the-bluff-tickets-43305921176?aff=efbevent Theatre 98 presents “Butterflies Are Free” 7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Theatre 98 presents “Butterflies Are Free” 251-928-4366 www.theatre98.org Teach Them Diligently Homeschool Conference Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Teach Them Diligently Convention, a Christian homeschool event, is thrilled to be coming to Mobile for the first time! Last year tens of thousands of people attended Teach Them Diligently conventions across the U.S. Families love the camaraderie, energy, and encouragement of this homeschool event. There is something for everyone—moms, dads, littles, and teens—and there are unique sessions and opportunities specifically designed for families with special needs. For more information or to register visit www.teachthemdiligently.net. Use discount code PARENTS10 to save $10 off your registration. www.teachthemdiligently.net

Saturday May 5

Balloon Fest 10k/5k 7:30 AM Foley Soccer Complex, 18507 US HWY 98 Foley, 36535 Join us for the Balloon Fest 10k/5k and get an opportunity to be up close and personal with

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FamilyCalendar hot air balloons (weather permitting). The race will begin and finish at the Balloon Festival Grounds. Awards will be given following the race and Balloon Festival vendors will be open for your shopping enjoyment. gulfcoastballoonfestival.com Lions Club Tunnel Vision 5K 8:00 AM Intersection of Washington and Government Streets, Mobile, 36602 Point to point 5K course. Participants will start at the Mobile Public Library on Government Street and finish at Cafe Del Rio on the Causeway. Proceeds from the Tunnel Vision 5K will benefit the sight programs of the Lions Club of Mobile. www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/mobileal Dumas Wesley Community Center’s Third Annual Plane Pull 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Mobile Aeroplex at Brookley, 1891 9th Street Mobile, 36615 Can you handle the ultimate man versus machine challenge? Dumas Wesley is challenging the community to participate in this extreme and unique event that pits teams against an Airbus aircraft weighing 130,000 pounds. Teams compete to see who can pull the plane over 12 feet in the fastest amount of time. The event is open to the public and will also include entertainment, food trucks, a Kid’s Zone, and an awards ceremony. Spectators are strongly encouraged to attend and cheer on their favorite team! This fundraiser raises both money and awareness for the Dumas Wesley Community Center. Spectators get in free! www.dumaswesley.org/2018-planepull/

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Cuban Festival (Free) 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 Join us for the Mobile Museum of Art’s first ever Cuban Festival, celebrating the shared cultures of Mobile and our sister city, Havana, Cuba. With a day full of family activities, and special guest lecturer, Havana City Historian, Dr. Eusebio Leal, MMofA invites all ages to experience Cuban culture and enjoy Common Crowd: Photographs of Havana and Mobile. The MMofA special exhibition features photographs of shared characteristics seen in our sister cities, through the lens of photographers Chip Cooper and Julio Larramendi. With free admission for all Mobile County residents offered all day, you can also check out some vintage cars that will be on display out front, tour the galleries with the artists themselves, enjoy lunch from a local food truck, learn to salsa, and end the afternoon with a film about the famous Buena Vista Social Club. 251-208-5200 www.mobilemuseumofart.com Baldwin Bengal’s “Boil on the Bay V” 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, American Legion Post 199, 700 South Mobile Street Fairhope, 36532 Come pass a good time at The Boil On The Bay 2018. Enjoy tails, tunes and tailgating! Feel free to put up your tailgating tent and fly your own school colors. All are welcome. Enjoy hot crawfish and live music from Rondale And The Kit Kats. 251-463-1398 www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/2915174 Harvest Nights ($5 per

adult if you don’t wish to pick berries and children 12 &

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival (Festival admission is Free)

9:00 AM - 10:00 PM, Foley Soccer Complex, 18507 US HWY 98 Foley, 36535 The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is approaching its 14th year of flying! We are excited you are interested in coming to this year’s event that will feature more than 30 balloons from across the country! Come enjoy performances by the World-Famous Disc Connected Canines, musical entertainment, children’s activities and more amid retail, arts & crafts and food booths. Musical headliners follow balloon flights, glows and tethered rides (weather permitting) Friday and Saturday nights. gulfcoastballoonfestival.com The Big Walk 9:00 AM Bluegill Restaurant, 3775 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort, 36527 Big Brothers Big Sisters BIG Walk is a family-friendly event that unites the community by raising awareness and support for the important role mentoring plays in our community. The 2-mile walk along the beautiful Causeway will allow people to take a journey with friends and family while honoring the mentors in their lives and inspiring others to join our efforts. With children’s activities, entertainment, refreshments, and more-there is something for everyone to enjoy! www.bbbssa.org/BigWalk2018 69th Annual Blessing of the Fleet 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, St. Margaret’s Church, 13790 South Wintzell Avenue Bayou La Batre, 36509 St. Margaret’s Blessing of the Fleet will have Great Food, Music, a Gumbo Cook-off, an Arts & Crafts Show, a Decorated Boat Contest, Boat Cruises, Bingo, and more. www.fleetblessing.org

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

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4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Weeks Bay Plantation, 12562 Mary Ann Beach Road Fairhope, 36532 Weeks Bay Plantation will kick off Harvest Nights on May 5, the series continuing every Saturday through June 16. These family-friendly events feature blueberry picking (cost is $8 per pound), market vendors, food trucks and live music under the stars. www.weeksbayplantation.com Newsies: ESRT’s 5th Annual Theatre on the Bluff 7:30 PM The Bluff at Henry George Park, Fairhope, 36532 Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre (ESRT) will bring Disney’s Newsies to Henry George Park in Fairhope for the fifth annual Theatre on the Bluff on May 3-5, 2018. Newsies will be co-directed by Erin Langley and David Redman Scott with choreography by Matthew Kiel. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m., and gates will open at 6:30 each evening. Patrons should bring their own blanket or lawn chair, and picnics are encouraged. Concessions will also be available for purchase. www.eventbrite.com/e/newsies-esrts-5th-annual-theatre-on-the-bluff-tickets-43305921176?aff=efbevent Theatre 98 presents “Butterflies Are Free” 7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Theatre 98 presents “Butterflies Are Free” 251-928-4366 www.theatre98.org Grand Pediatric Pentathlon Grand Hotel, 1 Grand Boulevard Point Clear, 36564 Get involved in a fun, family event happening at the Grand Hotel Marriott Resort. On Saturday, May 5, the Alabama Chapter-American Academy of Pediatrics will host its fifth annual Grand Pediatric Pentathlon to benefit Reach Out and Read-Alabama. www.roralabama.org/grand-pediatric-pentathlon

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Teach Them Diligently Homeschool Conference Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Teach Them Diligently Convention, a Christian homeschool event, is thrilled to be coming to Mobile for the first time! Last year tens of thousands of people attended Teach Them Diligently conventions across the U.S. Families love the camaraderie, energy, and encouragement of this homeschool event. There is something for everyone—moms, dads, littles, and teens—and there are unique sessions and opportunities specifically designed for families with special needs. For more information or to register visit www.teachthemdiligently.net. Use discount code PARENTS10 to save $10 off your registration. www.teachthemdiligently.net

Sunday May 6

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Final Competition (Festival admission is Free)

6:00 AM - 7:00 AM, Foley Soccer Complex, 18507 US HWY 98 Foley, 36535 Come and watch as our pilots enjoy their final competition flight! Please note there are NO activities, vendors or food sales today. Balloon flights are weather dependent. gulfcoastballoonfestival.com 69th Annual Blessing of the Fleet 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, St. Margaret’s Church, 13790 South Wintzell Avenue Bayou La Batre, 36509 St. Margaret’s Blessing of the Fleet will have Great Food, Music, a Gumbo Cook-off, an Arts & Crafts Show, a Decorated Boat Contest, Boat Cruises, Bingo, and more. www.fleetblessing.org Mother Daughter Tea benefitting the Salvation Army’s Family Haven ($50 a pair and $15 for each

additional child 12 and under. $35 per adult. )

2:00 PM The Battle House Hotel , 26 North Royal Street Mobile, 36602 Join us for a wonderful afternoon for the Mother Daughter Tea benefitting the Salvation Army’s Family Haven- the Gulf Coast’s only family shelter that accepts men, women and children as a unit. Enjoy arts and crafts as well as tea time refreshments. AND, some very special princess guests will join us on stage! So put on your Sunday dress and join us for tutu making, flower wreath making and more! 251-459-6144 Baldwin County Music Teachers Association Senior Piano Student Concert 2:30 PM Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship Facility, 1150 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 The program will consist of classical music from Bach to Rachmaninoff and there will be a display featuring the musical accomplishments of these outstanding students. The public is cordially invited to attend the concert and the reception which follows. Theatre 98 presents “Butterflies Are Free” 2:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Theatre 98 presents “Butterflies Are Free” 251-928-4366 www.theatre98.org

Monday May 7

20th Annual Sunset Supper 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Fairhope Yacht Club, 101 Volanta Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Come enjoy an evening of good food, good music, and great deals. We boast an exceptional silent auction which includes vacation packages, spa treatments, grills, clothes, jewelry, and much more. You don’t want to miss the view from the Fairhope Yacht Club. All proceeds go to to help victims in your immediate community. www.eventbrite.com

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($7 for members and $10 for non-members)

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

Tuesday May 8

Tour of Fort Morgan (Adults $7.00, Students & Seniors (65+) $5.00, Children (ages 6 to 12) $4.00)

10:00 AM Fort Morgan, 51 AL-180 Gulf Shores, 36542 Living history interpreters will take you on a guided tour of Fort Morgan. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org Fairhope Museum of History “Tea for Two” 2:00 PM Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Paul Merchant. Horticulture supervisor for the City of Fairhope’s Public Works department, Paul happens to be a native, life-long resident. He will tell us of his life growing up in Fairhope and the secrets of our beautiful, signature flower beds. 251-929-1471 www.cofairhope.com/departments/ museum Tween Minecraft Game (Free) 4:15 PM - 5:30 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Minecraft computer and coding game for Tweens ages 9 - 12 years

is held every Tuesday. Sign-ups are required for each Minecraft session. Sign up on Eventbrite.com. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org Teen Minecraft Game (Free) 5:30 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Minecraft computer and coding game for Teens ages 13 - 18 years is held every Tuesday. Sign-ups are required for each Minecraft session. Sign up on Eventbrite.com. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org

Thursday May 10

5th Annual Fairhope Girl’s Night Out ($20) 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Fairhope Welcome Center, Fairhope, 36532 All ladies are invited to a fun night out in Downtown Fairhope! The party starts at the Fairhope Welcome Center at 4pm Shops and restaurants will have extended hours. Attendees will receive a commemorative t-shirt, swag bag, dining voucher and an exclusive coupon book. All participants will be entered to win great prizes! www.downtownfairhope.com

Brown Bag Concerts 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Mayday Park, Daphne, 36526 Catt’s Brown Bag Concerts - Kevin Danzig www.daphneal.com Fairhope Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Behind the Fairhope Library, Fairhope, 36532 Fairhope Farmer’s Market. The Market will offer fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, local honey, plants, fresh cut flowers and more. The Fairhope Public Library will be holding story times and children’s activities at 4:00pm each Thursday at the Market. 251-929-1466 Flock Party (Free) 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Flock Party! For ages 13 and up 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org Taste of the Towns 6:00 PM Five Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Taste of the Towns to benefit the Daphne/Spanish Fort Kiwanis Club. www.daphnespanishfortkiwanis.org Under His Wing’s 4th Annual Banquet of Hope

($50)

Tour of Fort Morgan (Adults $7.00, Students & Seniors (65+) $5.00, Children (ages 6 to 12) $4.00)

10:00 AM Fort Morgan, 51 AL-180 Gulf Shores, 36542 Living history interpreters will take you on a guided tour of Fort Morgan. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org

6:00 PM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 Highway 98 Daphne, 36526 Join us for Under His Wing’s 4th Annual Banquet of Hope and help us continue our mission of providing a Christian home of hope for at risk teenage girls in Baldwin county. underhiswingsbaldwin.org

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FamilyCalendar Friday May 11

Flock Party (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Flock Party! For ages 13 and up 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org Fairhope Rotary Steak Cook-off

($50 in advance & $60 at the gate)

7:00 PM Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope, 36532 The steaks will amaze you. Under the skilled grill masters, these magnificent steaks are carved from the center of Prime Rib Roast. Rib eyes have just the right amount of marbling to yield a juicy, flavorful steak that’s second to none. But wait: there’s more! You get salad, baked potato, and fixin’s, PLUS beer, wine, or soft drinks—all included in the ticket price. And the party just begins with the food: you enjoy great music, dancing in the streets, and more fun than is legal north of the Mason-Dixon line! fairhopesteak.org Brown Bag Concerts 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Windmill Market, 85 North Bancroft Street Daphne, 36526 Catt’s Brown Bag Concerts - Kevin Danzig www.daphneal.com

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

Baldwin County Youth Orchestra Concert (Free) 7:00 PM Eastern Shore Baptist Church, 6847 Park Drive Daphne, 36526 Come hear Baldwin Counties Superior Rated Youth Orchestra perform works from Les Mes, Phantom, Music of George Cohen and more. Evening on Broadway Concert (Free but dona-

tions are welcome)

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Eastern Shore Baptist Church, 6847 Park Drive Daphne, 36526 Join us as the Baldwin County Youth Orchestra presents “Evening on Broadway” Concert includes favorites from Grease, Les Mis, Phantom of the Opera and more. 251-979-6834 www.bcyorchestra.com Free Movie Friday (Free) 7:30 PM Blackburn Park, 1st and Hoyle Street Bay Minette, 36507 Movie Night featuring “CoCo”. www.cityofbayminette.org National Public Gardens Day ($13 for adults

and $7.50 for ages 5-12. There is no charge for Bellingrath members or for children ages 4 and younger.)

Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36582 This is a day to recognize the importance of public gardens in promoting environmental stewardship and awareness. At Bellingrath, we’ll offer a special behindthe-scenes tour of our Production Greenhouses, conducted by our Horticulture Management Team. Find out how we grow the signature displays that provide beauty to more than 110,000 visitors each year. The one-hour tour will start at 10:30 a.m. 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

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Saturday May 12

Run Ride Scout 5K, Duathlon & 1-Mile Family Fun 7:00 AM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park , 2703 Battleship Memorial Parkway Mobile, 36602 The third annual Run Ride Scout 5K, Duathlon & 1-Mile Family Fun Run benefits local scouting programs at the Mobile Area Council, Boy Scouts of America. Not a runner? Join us for scout activities in the field at Battleship Memorial Park - archery, bb range, rock climbing, Tomahawk throwing, Pinewood derby, Raingutter regatta, arts & crafts, dutch oven cooking demonstrations, monkey bridge, etc. www.bsamac.org/RunRideScout Art in the Park (Free) 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Heritage Park, 101 East Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535 An arts and crafts event in John B. Foley Park and Heritage Park and featuring more than 110 exhibitors displaying their original works. There will also be entertainment, children’s activity area, and a variety of food featuring local chefs; perfect for enjoying the day out with Mom. 251-943-4381 visitfoley.com Baldwin County Boss Babes present 1st Annual Spring Fling (Free Admission) 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Baldwin County Coliseum, 19477 Fairground Road Robertsdale, 36567 Baldwin County Boss Babes presents our newest market, The 2018 Spring Fling Vendor and Craft Show! Say “Happy Mother’s Day” by allowing Mom to choose a gift from 150 vendors! We will also have those one of a kind wedding or baby shower gifts, father’s day gifts or even just a gift for yourself! While you are here, grab lunch from one of our multiple food vendors! The first 250 customers will receive a free shopping

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FamilyCalendar bag! All customers who complete our survey at the event will be entered to win an awesome gift basket full of goodies from our vendors! https://springfling.planningpod.com/ Children’s Cup Regatta 12:30 PM Fairhope Yacht Club, 101 Volanta Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Sailing enthusiasts and friends in Mobile and Baldwin counties are invited to enjoy a day of sailboat racing at the ninth annual Children’s Cup Regatta benefiting patients from the Alabama Gulf Coast treated at Children’s of Alabama. A family-friendly event, guests are invited to watch the races free-of-charge beginning at 12:30 p.m. If you would like to participate in the Curisers Crawl or kayak races, please visit http://give.childrensal.org/regatta2018, or call Kerrie Benson at (251) 610-4969 for registration prices and information. . The event will also feature a kids’ activity area opens at 4:00 p.m. Event updates will be posted regularly to facebook.com/ChildrensCupRegatta. Day-of registration is available from 9-10:30 a.m. on May 12 at the Fairhope Yacht Club. 251-610-4969 www.give.childrens.org/regatta2018 Harvest Nights ($5 per adult if you don’t wish to pick berries and children 12 & under are free.) 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Weeks Bay Plantation, 12562 Mary Ann Beach Road Fairhope, 36532 Weeks Bay

Plantation will kick off Harvest Nights on Saturday, May 5 from 4 to 8 p.m., the series continuing every Saturday through June 16. These family-friendly events feature blueberry picking (cost is $8 per pound), market vendors, food trucks and live music under the stars. www.weeksbayplantation.com Three Dog Night 8:00 PM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Three Dog Night at the Saenger Theatre in Mobile, AL on Saturday, May 12th at 8:00pm. www.mobilesaenger.com

Sunday May 13

Art in the Park (Free) 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Heritage Park, 101 East Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535 An arts and crafts event in John B. Foley Park and Heritage Park and featuring more than 110 exhibitors displaying their original works. There will also be entertainment, children’s activity area, and a variety of food featuring local chefs; perfect for enjoying the day out with Mom. 251-943-4381 visitfoley.com Mother’s Day Evening Garden Concert ($13 for adults and $7.50 for ages 5-12. There is no charge for Bellingrath members or for children ages 4 and younger.)

5:30 PM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36582 The Mobile Symphony Youth Orchestra will present our annual Mother’s Day Concert at 5:30 p.m. Bring Mom to enjoy music in the beautiful surroundings of the Gardens! Limited seating is available, and guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs. Guests are also welcome to bring a picnic lunch; beverages and

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snacks will be available to purchase 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

Tuesday May 15

Tour of Fort Morgan (Adults $7.00, Students & Seniors (65+) $5.00, Children (ages 6 to 12) $4.00)

10:00 AM Fort Morgan, 51 AL-180 Gulf Shores, 36542 Living history interpreters will take you on a guided tour of Fort Morgan. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org Fairhope Museum of History “Tea for Two” 2:00 PM Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Lynn Donnelly Maser. Come hear all about “Special Projects, Community Development” for the City of Fairhope from Lynn Maser, one of our city’s administrators. Lynn will talk about current projects including rehabilitating the marina and golf course. 251-929-1471 www.cofairhope.com/departments/ museum Tween Minecraft Game (Free) 4:15 PM - 5:30 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Minecraft computer and coding game for Tweens ages 9 - 12 years is held every Tuesday. Sign-ups are required for each Minecraft session. Sign up on Eventbrite.com. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org Teen Minecraft Game (Free) 5:30 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Minecraft computer and coding game for Teens ages 13 - 18 years is held every Tuesday. Sign-ups are required for each Minecraft session. Sign up on Eventbrite.com. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org

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FamilyCalendar Marc Cohn plus The Blind Boys of Alabama 7:00 PM The Steeple, 251 St. Francis Street Mobile, 36602 Marc Cohn plus The Blind Boys of Alabama concert at The Steeple. www.thesteeplemobile.com

Wednesday May 16

Daphne Public Works Day (Free) 10:00 AM Lott Park, 2039 Main Street Daphne, 36526 Enjoy a hands-on experience of various types of Public Works equipment & vehicles, such as transportation, construction, mowing, public safety & many others. Children & adults will have the opportunity to explore these vehicles, blow the horns, & discover how these complex machines operate & provide valuable services throughout our community. Also participating are Daphne Parks & Recreation, Daphne Fire Dept., Daphne Police Dept., Daphne Utilities, & Riviera Utilities. 251-621-3182

Thursday May 17

Tour of Fort Morgan (Adults $7.00, Students & Seniors (65+) $5.00, Children (ages 6 to 12) $4.00)

10:00 AM Fort Morgan, 51 AL-180 Gulf Shores, 36542 Living history interpreters will take you on a guided tour of Fort Morgan. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org Fairhope Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Behind the Fairhope Library, Fairhope, 36532 Fairhope Farmer’s Market. The Market will offer fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, local honey, plants, fresh cut flowers and more. The Fairhope Public Library will be holding story times

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

and children’s activities at 4:00pm each Thursday at the Market. 251-929-1466 LEGO Mindstorms (Free) 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Tweens and Teens LEGO Mindstorm -Robotics Class 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org Eastern Shore Art Center White Linen Night ($75 per person)

7:00 PM 10:00 PM, Eastern Shore Arts Center, 401 Oak Street Fairhope, 36532 Dress in your favorite white linen, shabby or chic, and join the Eastern Shore Art Center for White Linen Night where art will take center stage. Enjoy music by Red Clay Strays, local fare from your favorite restaurants and a special beer brewed and labeled exclusively for White Linen Night by Fairhope Brewing Company. An exciting live auction will top off the evening and allow you to take home a special piece from a local artist. All proceeds will benefit the organization’s ongoing mission to educate and promote the arts. 251-928-2228 esartcenter.org Tracy Lawrence 7:00 PM The Steeple, 251 St. Francis Street Mobile, 36602 Tracy Lawrence in concert at The Steeple. www.thesteeplemobile.com

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Friday May 18

LEGO Mindstorms (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Tweens and Teens LEGO Mindstorm -Robotics Class 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org Heritage Park Marketplace (Free) 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM, Heritage Park Gazebo, 101 East Violet Avenue Foley, 36535 Art and crafts, plants, produce, baked goods and much more. visitfoley.com 21st Annual Rufus B. Lee Gumbo Cook Off 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Cooper Riverside Park, 101 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 The Propeller Club – Port of Mobile will sponsor the 21st Annual Rufus B. Lee Gumbo Cook Off at Cooper Riverside Park. Proceeds from this event will benefit GulfQuest (National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico). propellerclubmobile.club/events/21st-annual-rufus-blee-gumbo-cook-off Live at Five VIP Concert 5:30 PM Halstead Amphitheater, Coastal Alabama’s Fairhope Campus, Fairhope, 36532 Live at Five VIP concert series presents The Mulligan Brothers. business.eschamber.com Music and a Movie: Coco (Free) 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM, Heritage Park, 101 East Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535 Begin the evening with music TBone Montgomery and Mac Walters. The bring your lawn chair and relax while you watch Coco! visitfoley.com

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FamilyCalendar Orange Beach Billfish Classic The Wharf Marina, 4851 Wharf Pkwy East Orange Beach, 36561 Weigh-ins are open to the public, so bring your friends and family to catch this largerthan-life display of angling! 251-224-1900 www.alwharf.com

Saturday May 19

May Flowers Observe and Explore Day (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Graham Creek Nature Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, 36535 Our May 19th Observe & Explore event will focus on native flowers and plants of the Graham Creek Preserve habitats, including the extraordinary pitcher plant bogs within the Preserve. 251-923-4267 grahamcreekpreserve.org

14th Annual Blue Star Salute - 5K Memorial 8:00 AM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36603 Alabama’s 14th Annual Blue Star Salute & 5th Annual Memorial Run/Walk & 1 Mile Fun Run for Alabama’s Fallen Heroes - A patriotic day honoring Alabama’s Veterans, Active Duty, and Fallen Heroes. A day full of enjoyment for families and children. www.eventbrite.com

Storytime and Book Signing 11:00 AM Barnes and Noble, 30500 Alabama 181 Spanish Fort, 36527 Join us for story time with Author Krissy Bystrom Emery as she reads her book, The Paw Paw Fruit Does the Cha-Cha Scoot! Learn all about the health benefits behind the suit of this amazing yet unconventional fruit. We can’t wait to share this adorable story with your little ones! 251-621-3545

5th Annual Sunset Car Show - Dauphin Island 9:00 AM Town Hall, Dauphin Island, 36528 If you are into classic & vintage vehicles, Dauphin Island is the place to be on Saturday, May 19 as dozens of makes and models will be on display at Green Park throughout the day. townofdauphinisland.org

Thunder on the Bay

Keep Daphne Beautiful Day (Free) 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Daphne City Hall, 1705 Main Street Daphne, 36536 Free & convenient services for the residents of the City of Daphne to spruce up your life & to help Keep Daphne Beautiful! Disposal Services include: Document Shredding, Expired Drugs, Tires, Electronics Recycling, Used Books, Thrift Store Donations, Vehicle Fluids, Car Batteries, Household Hazardous Waste www.daphneal.com

2:00 PM Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Come celebrate the upcoming 154th Battle of Mobile Bay Sponsored by the 6th Alabama Cavalry and the Alabama Division of Reenactors. Saturday at 2:00 pm will be the Battle of Mobile Bay then at 3:30 a surrender ceremony, on Sunday at 1:00pm will be a Tactical. 251-861-6992 dauphinisland.org

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Harvest Nights ($5 per adult if you don’t wish to pick berries and children 12 & under are free.)

4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Weeks Bay Plantation, 12562 Mary Ann Beach Road Fairhope, 36532 Weeks Bay Plantation will kick off Harvest Nights on Saturday, May 5 from 4 to 8 p.m., the series continuing every Saturday through June 16. These family-friendly events feature blueberry picking (cost is $8 per pound), market vendors, food trucks and live music under the stars. www.weeksbayplantation.com Orange Beach Billfish Classic The Wharf Marina, 4851 Wharf Pkwy East Orange Beach, 36561 Weigh-ins are open to the public, so bring your friends and family to catch this largerthan-life display of angling! 251-224-1900 www.alwharf.com

Sunday May 20

Thunder on the Bay 1:00 PM Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Come celebrate the upcoming 154th Battle of Mobile Bay Sponsored by the 6th Alabama Cavalry and the Alabama Division of Reenactors. Saturday at 2:00 pm will be the Battle of Mobile Bay then at 3:30 a surrender ceremony, on Sunday at 1:00pm will be a Tactical. 251-861-6992 dauphinisland.org Children of the World Motherhood Tea and Children’s Fashion Show 2:00 PM Battle House Hotel, 26 North Royal Street Mobile, 36602 Held at the Historic Battle House Hotel, this will be the first annual Motherhood Tea and Children’s Fashion Show benefit supporting Children of the World Adoption and Relief Agency. Showcas-

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FamilyCalendar ing “no matter how Motherhood comes to you, it is a blessing”, the event is open to all. Tickets are sold in advance and include three course tea experience, fashion show, and shopping with exclusive local boutiques in the vendor pre-function area. www.childrenoftheworld.com/events Sunday Sunset Series - Mobile Big Band Society 6:00 PM Bayfront Park Pavilion, 6200 Bayfront Park Drive Daphne, 36526 Sunday Sunset Series - Big Band by the Bay featuring: Mobile Big Band Society. DaphneAL.com/RadioAvalon.com Mrs. Bellingrath’s Birthday Celebration ($13 for adults and $7.50 for ages 5-12. There is no charge for Bellingrath

members or for children ages 4 and younger.)

Thursday May 24

Tour of Fort Morgan (Adults $7.00, Students & Seniors (65+) $5.00, Children (ages 6 to 12) $4.00)

10:00 AM Fort Morgan, 51 AL-180 Gulf Shores, 36542 Living history interpreters will take you on a guided tour of Fort Morgan. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org Fairhope Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Behind the Fairhope Library, Fairhope, 36532 Fairhope Farmer’s Market. The Market will offer fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, local honey, plants, fresh cut flowers and more. The Fairhope Public Library will be holding story times and children’s activities at 4:00pm each Thursday at the Market. 251-929-1466 3D Printing (Fairhope Library) (Free) 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 3D printing in the computer lab for ages 13-adult. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org

Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36582 Born on May 20, 1878, Bessie Morse Bellingrath left an enduring legacy of beauty in the Gardens and Home she created. Be sure to visit the Gift Shop for the annual “Buy Like Miss Bessie” sale! 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

Dwight Yoakam in Concert The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Dwight Yoakam in Concert 251-224-1000 alwharf.com/amphitheater.php

Monday May 21

Friday May 25

Moonlight Chassé Ballroom Dance Society ($7

for members and $10 for non-members)

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

Tuesday May 22

Tour of Fort Morgan (Adults $7.00, Students & Seniors (65+) $5.00, Children (ages 6 to 12) $4.00)

10:00 AM Fort Morgan, 51 AL-180 Gulf Shores, 36542 Living history interpreters will take you on a guided tour of Fort Morgan. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org Fairhope Museum of History “Tea for Two” 2:00 PM Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Barbara Hayes Brown and Sara Johnston Cox. Sara and Barbara will show off their book and film on the history of the Fairhope Yacht Club celebrating its 75th anniversary. 251-929-1471 www.cofairhope.com/departments/ museum Tween Minecraft Game (Free) 4:15 PM - 5:30 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Minecraft computer and coding game for Tweens ages 9 - 12 years is held every Tuesday. Sign-ups are required for each Minecraft session. Sign up on Eventbrite.com. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org Teen Minecraft Game (Free) 5:30 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Minecraft computer and coding game for Teens ages 13 - 18 years is held every Tuesday. Sign-ups are required for each Minecraft session. Sign up on Eventbrite.com. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

3D Printing (Fairhope Library) (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 3D printing in the computer lab for ages 13-adult. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org Pepsi Beach Ball Drop

(Admission is free; Face painting - $5, $7 & $10, Trampoline jumpee - $5)

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, 4851 Wharf Pkwy Orange Beach, 36561 This 5th annual event will be televised on NBC 15, so make sure you are at the center of the action when over 5,000 Pepsi-branded beach balls fall from the sky! There will be dozens of family-friendly activities on site, ranging from a surf simulator, bouncy house, trampoline jumpee, the new bubble zone, and an array of animals. DJ Matt will be spinning those feel-good tunes and live entertainment will take main stage throughout the evening. Icing on the cake – prizes will be given away ALL NIGHT! 251-224-1000 alwharf.com/amphitheater.php Music and a Movie (Free) 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM, Heritage Park, 101 East Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535 Begin the evening with music by the Baldwin Pops. Then bring your lawn chair and relax while you watch Wonder! visitfoley.com Spaghetti Dinner/Bingo at Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church Life Center ($5 for a full course

dinner of spaghetti, salad, bread, drink and dessert. $20 for 11 games of Bingo. )

6:00 PM Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church Life Center, 28788 North Main Street Daphne, 36526 Join us the fourth Friday of each month for Spaghetti Dinner and Bingo. Dinner is served at 6:00 p.m. and the games start at 6:30 p.m.

Saturday May 26

Memorial Day Tribute 2018 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Fort Morgan, 110 Hwy 180 Gulf

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Shores, 36542 Uniformed interpreters will bring the fort to life through demonstration of period drills on the fort’s parade ground as well as artillery demonstration at the water battery. Special talks given by the site historians will provide insight into the events that transpired as well as introduce topics little written about in books. Explore the military history of Mobile Point from the War of 1812, Civil War, WWI, and WWII. Living history staff will remember those who gave their lives in serve at Fort Morgan. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org May Flowers Observe and Explore Day (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Graham Creek Nature Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, 36535 Our May 19th Observe & Explore event will focus on native flowers and plants of the Graham Creek Preserve habitats, including the extraordinary pitcher plant bogs within the Preserve. 251-923-4267 grahamcreekpreserve.org LuLuPalooza 2018

11:00 AM - 9:00 PM, LuLu’s, 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, 36542 Always our big kick-off to the summer season! Come join us for good times, sunshine and live music all day! As always, this is a free event that you don’t want to miss! This year’s headliner is Flow Tribe, plus Yellowhammer, and Adam Holt! lulubuffett.com

Lil Whit Meet and Greet 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Whit’s Frozen Custard of Daphne, 1204 Main Street Daphne, 36526 Lil Whit will bring a fun kids flavor, and he will be handing out balloons and taking pictures. Please join us for this fun event. 251-378-9204 www.whitscustard.com/al-daphne

Sunday May 27

Paradise Island 5K Run and Competitive Walk 7:30 AM Orange Beach Sportsplex, 4385 William Silvers Parkway Orange Beach, 36561 Paradise Island 5K Run and Competitive Walk to benefit Furrever Homes Animal Rescue. www.active.com/orange-beach-al/running/distancerunning-races/paradise-island-5k-2018 Sunset Concert - Yo Jonsey & The Crowned Jewels 6:00 PM West End Beach, Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Sunset Concert featuring Yo Jonsey & The Crowned Jewels townofdauphinisland.org Dave Matthew’s Band 8:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Dave Matthews Band in Concert. 251-224-1000 alwharf.com/amphitheater.php

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Monday May 28

DI Veterans Association Memorial Day Ceremony 11:00 AM Water Tower, Dauphin Island, 36528 The DI Veterans Association will host its annual Memorial Day Ceremony at the Memorial Wall located in front of the Water Tower Plaza. Join the group for this patriotic and solemn event as the pay tribute to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. townofdauphinisland.org

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Baldwin Pops Memorial Day Concert 6:30 PM Henry George Park, Fairhope, 36532 www.baldwinpops.com

Tuesday May 29

Tour of Fort Morgan (Adults $7.00, Students & Seniors (65+) $5.00, Children (ages 6 to 12) $4.00)

10:00 AM Fort Morgan, 51 AL-180 Gulf Shores, 36542 Living history interpreters will take you on a guided tour of Fort Morgan. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org Fairhope Museum of History “Tea for Two” 2:00 PM Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Marilyn Mannhard. A native Fairhoper and Master Gardener, Marilyn will present her program Food for Life: Selecting and growing food for optimal health. 251-929-1471 www.cofairhope.com/departments/ museum

Thursday May 31

Art in the Park (Free) 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Lott Park, 2039 Main Street Daphne, 36526 Join us for 2018’s Art in the Park Crafts, Inflatables, & FREE Concessions! 251-621-3703

Thursday May 31

Tour of Fort Morgan (Adults $7.00, Students & Seniors (65+) $5.00, Children (ages 6 to 12) $4.00)

10:00 AM Fort Morgan, 51 AL-180 Gulf Shores, 36542 Living history interpreters will take you on a guided tour of Fort Morgan. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org Fairhope Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Behind the Fairhope Library, Fairhope, 36532 Fairhope Farmer’s Market. The Market will offer fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, local honey, plants, fresh cut flowers and more. The Fairhope Public Library will be holding story times and children’s activities at 4:00pm each Thursday at the Market. 251-929-1466

www.ChildrensAL.org/concussion

KNOW what to do in case of suspected concussion

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

REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY n.....Should be evaluated right away

Friday June 1

Plow Days 2018 – South Alabama Antique Tractor and Engine Club 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Underwood Farm, 1801 CR 71 Summerdale, 36580 SAATAC Annual Plow Days Plowing, Threshing, Corn Grinding, Tractor games, Parade, Food, Music, Vendors. 251-978-0661 saatec.org/mobile

SPORTS MEDICINE

by a doctor/healthcare professional n.... Should not be left alone n.....Should not drive a motor vehicle

SPORTS MEDICINE

For a Concussion Clinic appointment, call 205.934.1041 In case of medical emergency, call 911 or go directly to your local ER

Music and a Movie (Free) 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM, Heritage Park, 101 East Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535 Begin the evening with music by Shelby Brown. Then bring your lawn chair and relax while you watch Despicable Me 3! visitfoley.com

SPORTS MEDICINE

High Hopes FUNraiser

SPORTS MEDICINE

($10)

Pirate’s Cover, 6664 Co Rd 95 Elberta, 36530 The Annual Illuminating Autism FUNraiser at Pirates Cove is a three-day event, held June 1 - 3. The event offers food, fun and live music on the sandy shores of the laid-back beach restaurant. During our 12th Annual FUNraiser we will drawn down on two 2018 4X4 JEEPs from Gulf Chrysler,

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FamilyCalendar 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 Sundayfrom 12:00pm – 3:00pm. 251-986-7007 www.highhopes4autism.com First Friday Art Walk 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope, 36521 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

Saturday June 2

Publix Grandman Triathlon 7:00 AM Fairhope Municipal Pier, Fairhope, 36521 Mobile Baykeeper is hosting the 14th Annual Publix Grandman Triathlon at the beautiful Fairhope Pier. Racers begin the race with a jump off the pier into Mobile Bay and swim 1/3-mile to the shore. Following the swim, racers bike 18 miles, beginning up a steep hill before riding through the streets of downtown Fairhope and miles of rolling countryside. The

race to the finish line consists of a 3.1 mile run alongside scenic Mobile Bay. 251-433-4229 www.thegrandman.com Plow Days 2018 – South Alabama Antique Tractor and Engine Club 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Underwood Farm, 1801 CR 71 Summerdale, 36580 SAATAC Annual Plow Days Plowing, Threshing, Corn Grinding, Tractor games, Parade, Food, Music, Vendors. 251-978-0661 saatec.org/mobile May Flowers Observe and Explore Day (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Graham Creek Nature Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, 36535 Our May 19th Observe & Explore event will focus on native flowers and plants of the Graham Creek Preserve habitats, including the extraordinary pitcher plant bogs within the Preserve. 251-923-4267 grahamcreekpreserve.org Harvest Nights ($5 per adult if you don’t wish to pick berries and children 12 & under are free.)

4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Weeks Bay Plantation, 12562 Mary Ann Beach Road Fairhope, 36532 Weeks Bay Plantation will kick off Harvest Nights on Saturday, May 5 from 4 to 8 p.m., the series continuing every Saturday through June 16. These family-friendly events feature blueberry picking (cost is $8 per pound), market vendors, food trucks and live music under the stars. www.weeksbayplantation.com High Hopes FUNraiser ($10) Pirate’s Cover, 6664 Co Rd 95 Elberta, 36530 The Annual Illuminating Autism FUNraiser at Pirates Cove is a three-day event, held June 1 - 3. The event offers food, fun and live music on the sandy

shores of the laid-back beach restaurant. During our 12th Annual FUNraiser we will drawn down on two 2018 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 Sundayfrom 12:00pm – 3:00pm. 251-986-7007 www.highhopes4autism.com

Sunday June 3

Publix Jubilee Kids Triathlon 7:30 AM Fairhope Municipal Pier, Fairhope, 36521 Mobile Baykeeper is partnering with Eastern Shore Triathlon Club and Altaworx to co-host the Publix Jubilee Kids Triathlon. The race is open to children ages 7-15 and features four different categories according to age group: Mullets (Ages 13-15), Flounders (Ages 11-12), Crabs (Ages 9-10), and Shrimps (Ages 7-8). Proceeds benefit Mobile Baykeeper, myTeam Triumph: Southern Alabama, and Delta Bike Project. 251-433-4229 www.mobilebaykeeper.org/jubileekidstriathlon Explore Mobile 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Mardi Gras Park, Mobile, 36602 Explore Mobile is Sunday, June 3, 2018 from 1:00pm to 6:00pm in Downtown Mobile in Mardi Gras Park. Enjoy live music, food, activities, as well free/discounted admission to the city’s tourist attractions. Attendees will be able to explore 300 years of Mobile History inside the History Museum of Mobile, experience Colonial life inside the walls of the Colonial Fort of Mobile, gaze upon the period rooms of the Conde-Charlotte Museum House, step

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Calendar back in time as they navigate the Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail and more! exploremobile.org High Hopes FUNraiser ($10) Pirate’s Cover, 6664 Co Rd 95 Elberta, 36530 The Annual Illuminating Autism FUNraiser at Pirates Cove is a three-day event, held June 1 - 3. The event offers food, fun and live music on the sandy shores of the laid-back beach restaurant. During our 12th Annual FUNraiser we will drawn down on two 2018 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 Sundayfrom 12:00pm – 3:00pm. 251-986-7007 www.highhopes4autism.com

Monday June 4

Moonlight Chassé Ballroom Dance Society

($7 for members and $10 for non-members)

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

Tuesday June 5

Tuesday Evening Living History Tour - Fort Morgan 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Fort Morgan, 51 AL-180 Gulf Shores, 36542 Tuesday Evening Living History Tour of Fort Morgan. 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org

Wednesday June 6

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36582 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. 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

Thursday June 7

Art in the Park (Free) 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Lott Park, 2039 Main Street Daphne, 36526 Join us for 2018’s Art in the Park Crafts, Inflatables, & FREE Concessions! 251-621-3703

Friday June 8

Heritage Park Marketplace (Free) 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM, Heritage Park Gazebo, 101 East Violet Avenue Foley, 36535 Art and crafts, plants, produce, baked goods and much more. visitfoley.com Crawfish Cookoff ($15 for

adults and $5 for children under 10 with a paid adult)

Fairhope Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Behind the Fairhope Library, Fairhope, 36532 Fairhope Farmer’s Market. The Market will offer fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, local honey, plants, fresh cut flowers and more. The Fairhope Public Library will be holding story times and children’s activities at 4:00pm each Thursday at the Market. 251-929-1466

5:30 PM Blackburn Park, 1st and Hoyle Street Bay Minette, 36507 Join the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce in

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Blackburn Park in Downtown Bay Minette on Friday, June 8th for a Crawfish Event like no other -- Kick off Summer with a family friendly good time that includes a variety of styles of Crawfish from cooking teams, live music, kid’s activities, and so much more! www.cityofbayminette.org

Saturday June 9

Dragon Boat Festival 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM, USS Alabama Battleship Memorial , 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36603 We are thrilled to be back for our fifth year as we present one of the largest Dragon Boat Festivals in the nation,” said Jessica Wofford, Director of Operations for Fuse Project. The family friendly festival includes children’s activities, all of the exhibits of the Battleship and a number of wonderful local food trucks and vendors. www.fuseproject.org

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SupportGroups Harvest Nights ($5 per adult if you don’t wish to pick berries and children 12 & under are free.)

4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Weeks Bay Plantation, 12562 Mary Ann Beach Road Fairhope, 36532 Weeks Bay Plantation will kick off Harvest Nights on Saturday, May 5 from 4 to 8 p.m., the series continuing every Saturday through June 16. These familyfriendly events feature blueberry picking (cost is $8 per pound), market vendors, food trucks and live music under the stars. www.weeksbayplantation.com Music and a Movie (Free) 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM, Heritage Park, 101 East Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535 Begin the evening with music by the Bo Grant. Then bring your lawn chair and relax while you watch Wonder Woman! visitfoley.com

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1st Tuesday of every month, 5:30pm-until. Dinner is served. 1st floor conference room of Strada Center, 1601 Center Street, Mobile. Contact: Rene Sprague RN, MSN rgilstrapsprague@health. southalabama.edu, 251-610-5264. Please RSVP if you plan to attend. Celebration MOPS Fairhope (Meets During School Year Only) Celebration MOPS meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. at Celebration Church, 8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope. Childcare is provided and is included in the fees. There is an annual $23.95 MOPS International membership fee and $30 per semester. Call for info at 251-928-

Tuesday June 12

Tuesday Evening Living History Tour Fort Morgan 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Fort Morgan, 51 AL-180 Gulf Shores, 36542 Tuesday Evening Living History Tour of Fort Morgan. 251-540-7127 www. fort-morgan.org

Saturday June 16

Harvest Nights ($5 per adult if you don’t wish to pick berries and children 12 & under are free.)

4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Weeks Bay Plantation, 12562 Mary Ann Beach Road Fairhope, 36532 Weeks Bay Plantation will kick off Harvest Nights on Saturday, May 5 from 4 to 8 p.m., the series continuing every Saturday through June 16. These family-friendly events feature blueberry picking (cost is $8 per pound), market vendors, food trucks and live music under the stars. www.weeksbayplantation.com

Classes/Meetings Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) Offering Adoptive Family Support Group Meetings in Baldwin County the 2nd 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. Bridge Support Group A place where parents with similar experiences come together to share stories, advice and love. These families have had babies who: were stillborn, born with a lethal anomaly (such as Trisomy 13, Trisomy 18, skeletal dysplasia, anencephaly) or had a baby that only lived in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Our families are from all over the Gulf Coast and all have beautiful stories to tell. Meets

Eastern Shore Parents I May 2018

0343 or like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/ celebrationmopsfairhopeal. Family Center’s Positive Parenting Classes are held on Tuesday mornings 9:30-11:30 am and Responsible Parenting with focus on fathers, co-parenting and economic stability/child support are Wednesday mornings 9 am-11 am and Monday evenings 6 pm-8pm. Call 251-947-4700 to register for either class. at The Family Center is located at 22671 Hwy. 59 South, Robertsdale. Fairhope MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) (Meets During School Year Only) We meet 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. every 2nd & 4th Monday (during the school year) at Fairhope United Methodist Church. All mothers of young children are welcome. Email fairhopemops@yahoo.com for how to register. Father Central of Daphne *Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men, $75 giftcard upon completion. Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Call 251-626-1610 to register, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Chill Skills” - Anger Management by appointment. $25 giftcard upon completion. Call 251-626-1610 schedule, The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Nurturing Parenting, everything you need to know

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but were afraid to ask. Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Jump in on any Thursday! Call 251-626-1610 to register, 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne.

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Shepherd’s Place (Christian Life Center) Ministry for memory & physically challenged. Mondays & Wednesdays 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 South Section Street, Fairhope. 928-1148. SOS (Survivors of Suicide) This group is for adults who has ever lost a loved one to suicide. SOS meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of EVERY month from 6:30 to approximately 8:00 p.m. at the Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 S. Section Street, Fairhope. The support group is facilitated by a professional and co-facilitated by two survivors. For information, please email jlbarber5@ bellsouth.net or call 251-455-6453. South Baldwin Regional Medical Center offers the following classes: Your entire family can take part in several informative classes designed to help moms and dads welcome their special new addition to the family with more confidence. Classes cover topics including: Having A Healthy Pregnancy Nutrition, discomforts of pregnancy, warning signs of complications, and relaxation exercises. One session. $10. Prepared Childbirth Classes (Once a week for four weeks). Cost: $30 Week 1: Begin the Stages of Labor: The labor and delivery process, signs and stages of labor, options for coping, pain management, vaginal delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 2: Delivery and Cesarean Birth: A review of complications that may arise, use of special equipment, complete the stages of labor, cesarean delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 3: New Born and Postpartum Care: Newborn appearance, caring for the newborn, infant safety, recognizing complications, relaxation exercises, and choosing a pediatrician. What to expect after delivery, understanding the physical and emotional changes to your body, and relaxation exercises. Week 4: The Art of Breast Feeding: The benefits of breast feeding for mother and baby, anatomy and physiology of the breast, how to breastfeed, and common difficulties. One session. • Tiny Toes members may enroll in Yoga, Water Aerobics and Expectant Mother Exercise classes through the Snook Family YMCA. The fee is $5 a class. There is a $3 fee for child care. There is no fee if you are already a member of the YMCA. All classes are located at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center–1613 North McKenzie Street Foley. Tuesday evenings 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Classroom A. • Please plan to attend the Healthy Pregnancy Class during your first trimester and the Prepared Childbirth Classes anytime after your 24th week of pregnancy. For more information or to enroll please call the OB Educator at 949-3676 to schedule. Gift of Life The Gift of Life is a required maternity care program for Medicaid patients or Medicaid-eligible patients. The Gift of Life Program provides a caring system of prenatal services; education and care coordination for expectant moms and their babies. For info contact 949-3781.

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SupportGroups Thomas Hospital offers the following classes: Breastfeeding Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Monthly, first

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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, 6:308:30 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- 2791373 or visit www. thomashospital.com for upcoming classes and registration. Natural Childbirth Classes, Fertility Awareness, Mother’s Comfort, Exercise and Nutrition For class schedule or information call Geralyn Piizzotti, 251- 928-9396. Yourbodyyourbirth@ bellsouth.net. Newborn Basics Class Held on the second Monday of every month from 6 – 8 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Free. No Pre-registration required. Pre-admission Sessions 6 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Sibling Class Thomas Hospital Fitness Center (Fairhope). Preregistration required. Call 279-1373. 10-11 a.m.

Thomas Hospital offers the following support groups for the community: Alanon (Alcoholics Anonymous) Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 800477-1104. 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. ALS Support Group Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month from 11 a.m. to noon at Thomas Medical Center. Call 205-937-4415 for more information. Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Health Resource Center located at: 308 S. Greeno Road, Fairhope. Call 928-8650 for more information. Cancer Support Group for Women Meetings are held the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room. For more information, call Patti Huval at 209-1229.

We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of these calendar events. However, you should call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

Please send your calendar events to lynn@ easternshoreparents.com!

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Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero

Miracle Season

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: BSexual Content: A Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: ASometimes a boy adopts a stray dog, other times the stray dog adopts the boy. The latter is the case for Robert Conroy (voice of Logan Lerman), a young soldier who shows a little kindness to a homeless, mix-breed bull terrier, and is then followed back to boot camp. Unable to shake the pup’s affection, Robert eventually accepts his offer of belonging and names the short-tailed mutt Stubby. Fortunately, the animal’s good nature, positive effect on morale, ability to perform military drills and even salute, also wins over Robert’s commanding officers at the Yale University training grounds for the Great War. It isn’t until the regiment reaches the front lines in France, on 5 February 1918, that Stubby’s real value is discovered. Unafraid of the loud shelling and gunfire, the little dog patrols the trenches, sniffs out trouble, and even rescues the wounded left for dead in the no-man’s-land between the opposing forces. Over time, Stubby’s acts of valor are recognized and he becomes the first pooch to receive the rank of Sargent. Based on a remarkable true story, this animation about the big accomplishments of a little dog provides a great way to introduce children to the history of World War I. Although the movie includes depictions of weapons use, gas attacks and the flu pandemic of 1918, along with resulting injuries and deaths, all of the violence is sanitized. These non-graphic and bloodless portrayals offer parents a family-friendly opportunity to discuss the serious nature of the challenges faced by those on the battlegrounds.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: ASexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ Sean McNamara (the director of Soul Surfer ) helms yet another top-flight sports movie closely based on a true story. The Miracle Season delivers an entertaining experience to viewers of all ages, along with powerful messages of hope and determination. Coming off their first win as state champions, the girls on the Iowa City West High School volleyball team may be excited to be back on the court, but they also know how to have fun with their sport. The primary advocate of having a ball while playing the game is team setter Caroline Found (Danika Yarosh), better known simply as “Line”. The effervescent blonde excitedly begins her senior year bouncing about the school’s campus with her best friend Kelly (Erin Moriarty), who also plays on the team. Contrasting Line’s unabashed enthusiasm is their coach, Kathy Bresnahan (Helen Hunt). Her serious demeanor keeps the girls focused. Then the unthinkable happens. Riding a borrowed moped, Line leaves a gathering of friends and has an accident that takes her life. Back on the court, Coach Bresnahan isn’t sure how to bring the team back together, let alone play a new season. Yet, she feels the game may be just what her grieving students need – as hard as it may be. Using Line’s legacy for motivation, Bresnahan convinces the girls to return and practice setting up the complicated plays that have made the coach one of the best in the country. One of the best family films we’ve reviewed in a while, Caroline Found, her teammates, coach and parents provide inspiring role models that, thanks to this cinematic adaptation, will continue to uplift lives for years to come.

Rampage

Truth or Dare

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: D+ Sexual Content: B Profanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: APark your brains at the door, grab a big popcorn and be prepared to suspend belief with this monster mayhem movie. With not one, but three, genetically modified beasts destroying downtown Chicago, it’s assumed violence will be the biggest issue for kids wanting to see Dwayne Johnson tame a 20 foot tall gorilla. Blood and some gory moments accompany lots and lots of shooting, most aimed at the gigantic creatures, using a slew of military weapons. Toss in a generous supply of scatological slang and other profanities, an ongoing finger gesture joke, and you have the makings of a PG-13 actioner. It’s intended to please those who are forgiving of a dumb story and sad acting – although Johnson does a fairly good job of squeezing lemonade from this sour script. The party begins when things go wrong with a science experiment orbiting the earth. One of the test samples crash-lands in George’s habitat, causing the gorilla’s appetite, temper and frame to grow faster than the national debt. Meanwhile, the audience also knows George isn’t alone. A wolf in Colorado and an alligator in Florida have also sniffed the DNA-modifying grow-gas and are waging their own threats. Very loosely based on an arcade video game from the days when gorilla’s looked like Donkey Kong, Rampage badly wants to be fun. Yet it gets bogged down in trying to convince viewers that the world really is in danger. For those who’ve already seen enough Kong-esque movies, this one’s just more of the same monkey business.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: D Violence: D Sexual Content: D+ Profanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: CPlaying a game of “Truth or Dare” during spring break (does anything good ever happen in movies during spring break?) a group of friends end up in a deadly exchange that is blamed on a spiritual force. In reality, the script is just an excuse to portray suicides, violence and sex because “the devil made me do it!” Of course, this game of Truth or Dare is going to have drastic real-world consequences, and the challenges are not controlled by the participants. Instead an evil spirit overtakes each player and all are forced to take a turn. Truths involve deeply personal and emotional revelations, and dares are a combination of highly dangerous, illegal, sexual and violent actions. Using the typically malevolent game, the story creates scenarios that would be unthinkable in any other circumstance. Physical harm toward others, self-inflicted wounds and deaths are had with guns, knives and other objects. Audiences with sensitivities for portrayals of suicide should be especially cautious. Characters are forced to have sex (which we see in more detail than necessary – including some brief female side nudity), streak (rear male nudity) and make out together (a “bi-curious” female with a non-willing female). Added to this are other sexual discussions with a penchant toward non-committal relationships involving all genders. Perhaps the best message we can extract from Truth or Dare is its exploration of honesty between friends. Yet you can find similar messages in far better media than this excuse for teen entertainment.

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New Medicare Cards Arriving Summer 2018 7 things to know about your new Medicare card: • Your Medicare Number is unique: Your card has a new number instead of your Social Security Number. • Your new card is paper: Paper cards are easier for many providers to use and copy, and they save taxpayers a lot of money. • Destroy your old Medicare card: Do not discard the old card until you have used the new one, to ensure it works with healthcare providers. • Keep your new card with you: Carry your new card and show it to your healthcare providers when you need care. • You can find your number: If you forget your new card, you, your doctor or other healthcare provider may be able to look up your Medicare Number online. • Keep your Medicare Advantage Card: If you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO), your Medicare Advantage Plan ID card is your main card for Medicare – you should still keep and use it whenever you need care. However, you also may be asked to show your new Medicare card, so you should carry this card, too. • Help is available: If you don’t get your new Medicare card by April 2019, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.

Be on the lookout for SCAMS with the new Medicare card. Don’t give personal information to get your card. Medicare will never call you uninvited and ask you to give personal information over the phone. Scam artists may try to get personal information (like your current Medicare Number) by contacting you about your new card. Medicare will also never make a home visit. Don’t pay for your new card. If someone asks you for your information, for money, or threatens to cancel your health benefits if you don’t share your personal information, hang up and call us at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or your Senior Medicare Patrol at your local Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-243-5463. Guard your card: Only give your new Medicare Number to doctors, pharmacists, other healthcare providers, your insurers, or people you trust to work with Medicare on your behalf. This project was supported, in part by grant number 90MP0238 from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201 and the Alabama Department of Senior Services.



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