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y a d y r e v E someone suffers in silence Although the warning signs may be hard to recognize, they are there. Recognize the signs. Know how to start the conversation. Know where to get help. Talking about suicidal thoughts can save a life.
Call 1-800-2 73-8255 Available 24 hours every day alabamapublichealth.gov/suicide
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South Baldwin Medical Group at McKenzie Street in Foley specializes in compassionate medical care for children of all ages. Pediatrician Amanda Calhoun, M.D., and Internist/Pediatrician Regina Felkner, D.O.,
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focus on your child’s overall health, providing routine checkups, immunizations, allergy care, and diagnosis and treatment of childhood illnesses.
WE’RE WITH YOU
EVERY INCH OF THE WAY. Amanda Calhoun, M.D. Pediatrics
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Regina Felkner, D.O. Internal Medicine Pediatrics
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September2017
Columns
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Volume 10 Number 4
6 Publisher’s Note Lynn Knighton
8 Living With Children John Rosemond
7 Qualities of Helpful Parents
The middle ground between helicopter & absentee parenting.
Talking to Kids About Disabilities
16 Kids Health Watch
sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
Conversation starters and answers to their questions.
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40 Parenting Today’s Teens
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Mark Gregston
42 Dave Says Dave Ramsey
50 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs
Caring for Caretakers How to support the parents of special needs children.
Special Needs Guide Local and national resources assist in caring for your child.
76 Get This!
Gerry Paige Smith
78 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
On The Cover
Departments
Mandolin Hughes (13) daughter of
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Kelly and Dannie Hughes and little sister to Damon. Mandolin loves collecting American Girl Dolls, video games, board games, shopping and makeup. Special thanks to Ashley West, makeup artist, who showed Mandolin some tricks of the trade at this fun photo shoot!
Bits and Pieces 18
School Bits 80
Family Calendar 92
Movie Reviews
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Publisher’sNote Every year Eastern Shore Parents dedicates the September issue to families with special needs children. In doing so I have the pleasure of getting to know more and more of these families in our area. As I listen to their stories I am in awe not only of their strength and courage, but also the pure joy they show amidst the challenges. These families are truly special! In honor of these families we have two articles that I encourage everyone to read. First up is Sarah Lyon’s Talking to Kids About Disabilities. Kids are curious and odds are they will encounter a child who is different from them. As Sarah shares, it is important to have age appropriate discussions with our children about others who may be different and be prepared to answer any questions they may have. Sarah’s sisterin-law was born with Cerebral Palsy and offers some personal insights on having these conversations with our kids. I have also found that it is usually okay for us to ask the parents questions. We recently had some children over to swim and one of the sweet girls we invited has a condition that at times causes her to need a wheelchair. When I called the mom to invite the friend I included, “The group will be swimming... is there anything special I need to know to make sure she is comfortable and has a good time?” She replied no, and that the little girl loves swimming... then thanked me for asking. The mother told me that sometimes people will just assume she cannot participate and instead of just asking, not include her. That made me so sad! So, going forward, never assume, just ask. Juggling extra doctor appointments, therapies and more, families with special needs children have more on their plates than many can imagine. Christina Katz provides us with some great ideas for helping these families in Caring for the Caretakers of Special Needs Children. One of her recommendations is “suggesting resources”. This is exactly what we are hoping to do with our Special Needs Resource Guide on page 56. The directory is filled with well over 100 different resources including support groups, educational support, financial resources, recreational opportunities and much more! Families who would like an opportunity to visit with some of these resource in person will have an opportunity to do so at our upcoming Special Needs Expo! The expo will be held on September 23 at St. Paul’s Life Center in Daphne, from 10am – 1pm. Please see the ad on page 33 for more details. If you are interested in being an exhibitor for this expo, please call or send us an email. Another feature article I think we can all relate to is 7 Qualities Of Helpful Parents: The Middle Ground Between Helicopter Parenting And Absentee Parenting. I know I struggle with this daily, especially as the girls are getting older. I want to help and be involved, but I also want my girls to grow up to be responsible, independent adults. Finding that balance can be a challenge so I am always grateful for any tips on the subject. Now that the dog days of summer are coming to a close we will officially be entering the fall season this month, which means football, festivals, and many more opportunities to enjoy some family time. The Bits and Pieces section and Family Calendar are filled with activities to celebrate the new season. As always, we thank you for reading Eastern Shore Parents. If you are one of these remarkable families with a special needs child, I hope to see you on September 23 at the Special Needs Expo!
Eastern Shore Parents Magazine, is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant, role in our community. Eastern Shore Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com
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Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Christa Weinberg Contributing Writers Mark Gregston Christa Melnyk Hines Carolyn Jabs Christina Katz Sarah Lyons 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 Leslie Hall Traci Calvert Danielle Nicholas ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099 Ad Design Tim Welch
Visit us online at www.easternshoreparents.com
Lynn
Eastern Shore Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 374, Montrose, Alabama, 36559. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 929-2099. Eastern Shore Parents is copyrighted 2017 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Eastern Shore Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
lynn@easternshoreparents.com
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source
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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond
Survey Rates Parenting Mental Health Do you need a parent-nanny? Not a nanny for your child, mind you, but one for YOU! I recently introduced my readers to what I call “upside-down, inside-out and turned around backwards parent-view disorder” (the column in question is currently posted on johnrosemond. com). The symptoms of this ubiquitous malady include pervasive and persistent parenting stress, worry, anxiety, guilt, anger, resentment, and then, more guilt. When all is said and done, these poor souls are in never-ending confusion over, “Who’s in charge around here?” Many of the folks who suffer from UDIOTABPVD are in denial—clueless, in the vernacular. So, to help these suffering souls self-identify, I am rolling out the “Am I Or Am I Not a Raving Parenting Lunatic Scientific Rating Scale.” Here’s how it works: Simply write T (for True) or F (for False) to the left of each of the following 20 questions. Don’t think too much about any answer. Go with your initial inclination.
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
1. I think more about my children than I think about anything else. 2. I believe parents should pay as much attention to their children as they possibly can. 3. I want to be involved in every aspect of my kids’ lives. 4. My relationships with my children are the most important relationships in my life. 5. I want my children to like me. 6. When a decision of mine upsets one of my children, I usually secondguess myself. 7. It’s a parent’s responsibility to help a child get good grades in school. 8. Bullying is anything done to my child by another child that upsets my child. 9. Other adults often fail to understand and treat my child properly. 10. When my child feels upset, I feel upset as well. 11. I usually finish an instruction to my child with the word “Okay?” 12. One of my children is very argumentative.
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13. One of my children seems to be very needy of my attention. 14. One of my children often interrupts me when I’m talking to someone else. 15. Raising a child (or children) is the hardest thing I’ve ever done. 16. Worrying about one or another of my kids causes me frequent sleep deprivation. 17. One of my children is very demanding and disrespectful. 18. One of my children cannot take “no” for an answer. 19. I feel guilty about sometimes wanting my children to leave me alone. 20. I must be doing something wrong. If you answered “True” to between zero and 5 questions, inclusive of 5, you’re okay. Remain calm and stay the course. If you answered True to between 6 and 10 questions, inclusive, you are shaky but hanging in there. If you answered True to between 11 and 15 questions, your parenting mental health is over the edge. If you answered True to more than 15 questions, you are a certified parenting wreck. You need a live-in parenting expert—a parent-nanny, if you will. Call me. Anything is negotiable. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
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Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
Camp I Believe Supports Children through Grief Process
Camp I Believe is a two-day, overnight camp where children ages 7 14 can learn to cope with the loss of their loved one. The beautiful grounds of Camp Baldwin allow children to heal through nature and a variety of fun activities which include fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, arts and crafts, field games and more. The camp will be held September 9-10, at Camp Baldwin in Elberta, AL. The campers are able to attend camp free of charge through funding provided by the Kindred Hospice Foundation. Camp I Believe is currently seeking campers to participate in the camp. We are also seeking supply donations and volunteers. For more information, please visit https://www.kindredhealthcare.com/ourservices/hospice/types-of-care/spiritual-services/bereavement-camps or call Kindred Hospice @ 251.621.2500, or email Lorrey Chapman, Laura.Chapman@gentiva.com.
Wind Creek Casino & Hotel Atmore presents the 11th annual Girls Just Wanna Have Fun event benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile on Thursday, September 14 from 5:30 - 9:00 p.m. at The Steeple. This "must do" event is an evening for ladies 21 years of age and older, complete with heavy hors d'oeuvres from local area chefs and restaurants, McTini's, and an unforgettable evening of manicures, makeovers, shopping and more! In addition, Purse-Onalities will be available at the 2017 Girls Just Wanna Have Fun event! Each year, a limited number of purses are available for this event which always creates a 'shopping frenzy!' In the event that admission tickets are sold out prior to the event, no admission tickets will be available for purchase at the door. To purchase tickets or to learn more visit www.RMHCMobile.org or find our event on Facebook.
GFWC Jubilee Club to Hold Annual Tablescape
Annual Delta Dash Now in 6th Year
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs Jubilee Women’s Club will hold their annual Tablescape fundraiser on Saturday, September 16. The event will be held at the Trinity Presbyterian Church from 11 a.m. til 1:00 p.m. Tickets are available at $25 per person. Lunch is included. The theme for the sixth annual Tablescape is “Colors—Tables with just the right touch!”. “Colors” will feature southern tablecapes that offer guests an opportunity to see how to set the stage for special-occasion meals by setting a beautifully creative table with flair and interest. Local Fairhope artist, Debbie Holobaugh will be the featured event speaker and will share her story of her “great leap of faith” from legal secretary to artist. Creative her entire life, she never picked up a paint brush until in her mid-40’s. Ms. Holobaugh’s works can be found at many local retailers and on her website www.debbieholobaughart.com. For tickets contact the club at www.GFWCJubileeTable17.myevent.com or jubileegfwc@gmail.com.
The 6th Annual Delta Dash will take place Saturday, September 30, in the upper Delta near Lower Bryant’s Landing, a short distance from the Tensaw River. A 5K obstacle course race designed to challenge the heart, body and soul, the Delta Dash will take place over three miles of wooded terrain where several exhilarating obstacles will be encountered. Some of these obstacles will consist of walls, ramps, a challenging mud crawl, detours off of the main trails through a creek, scaling hay bales, and much more. Proceeds not only benefit the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, but also a newly-developed scholarship program and several other educational endeavors overseen by the Young Professionals of the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce. There will be music, food and fun for everyone, runners and their families! Register now and begin preparing for an adventure that will push you to new limits. Visit www.DeltaDash.org to register today! Special pricing for registering early and for groups.
American Cancer Society Hosts Vintage Affair Gala
Guests can experience one of Mobile’s premier philanthropic events as we join together to save lives and party for a cause. The American Cancer Society (ACS) will host the Vintage Affair Gala, presented by Lexus of Mobile on Thursday, September 28 at Fort Whiting Armory from 6-9 p.m. Enjoy an evening filled with exquisite cuisine by Clifton Morrissette, fine wines from Red or White and the exciting sounds of dueling pianos from Cooper Trent, Johnson Trent and Teddy Williams. Sure to thrill are the live and silent auctions which include fabulous trips, estate jewelry and original local art featuring artist Karen Sandifer. Tickets for the event are $150 and can be purchased online at www.vintageaffairmobile.org or by calling 251.344.9858. Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
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Parents Can Take Children to Symphony FREE with MSO’s Big Red Ticket Program!
The Mobile Symphony (MSO) opens its 20th Anniversary season Sept. 23 & 24 with a brilliant musical celebration of famous classical works created for the Russian ballet. The concert even features dancers from New York’s famed Juilliard School and projected artworks provided by the Mobile Museum of Art. Through Big Red Ticket, sponsored by Alabama Power, students in grades K-12 can attend any Sunday performance in the classical series free when accompanied by a paying adult. A pre-concert lecture at 1:30 before each 2:30 matinee provides a more in-depth preview of the concert. Big Red Ticket admissions cannot be purchased online – only by phone at 251-432-2010 or at the symphony box office, 257 Dauphin Street, before the performance or during regular business hours. The offer is limited to two children per paying adult. Regular adult tickets are $15-$75. Student tickets for all concerts are available for $10. More details can be found online at www.mobilesymphony.org.
29th Annual Jubilee Festival of Arts Changes Name and Adds Fresh Energy to Popular Festival
Daphne’s Main Street Comes Alive with Art, Food & Entertainment September 23 & 24 The 29th Annual Jubilee Festival of Arts presented by Wind Creek adds a fresh energy by introducing a new name and embracing a wide range of artistic talents. The 29th Annual festival will be held September 23 and 24 along Main Street in Olde Towne Daphne. Admission is free. Your favorite artisans will set up beneath the canopy of oaks with original paintings, one-of-a-kind pottery, handcrafted jewelry and thoughtful gifts. You’ll be treated to cooking competitions, crafting demonstrations, pop-up performances and local musicians. Food vendors and local restaurants will feature wonderful dining options. A festival favorite, the Kids Art Park will be in Centennial Park. Young artists will get to explore their creative side for free with several fun activities like face painting, jewelry-making, wooden block sculptures and more. Check for entertainment and demonstration stage schedule announcements and festival updates throughout the Jubilee Festival on the Jubilee Festival of Arts Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ jubileefestivaldaphne/) and website (www.thejubileefestival.com).
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Out of the Darkness Walk for Suicide Awareness and Prevention
Alabama Coastal Cleanup
Alabama Coastal Cleanup, the state's largest one-day volunteer event, returns for its 30th year on Saturday, September 16. Residents, visitors, individuals and organizations are invited to “get the trash out of the splash” by picking up trash littering Alabama coasts and waterways from 8 a.m. to noon. Volunteers are needed on foot and on water. An exciting addition to this year’s 30th annual cleanup will be an effort to incorporate enhanced recycling opportunities for trash collected during the cleanup event. Alabama Coastal Cleanup, with support from Weeks Bay Foundation, Thompson Engineering, and Alabama Coastal Foundation, will partner with the TerraCycle Company to provide plastics recycling at cleanup zones. Volunteers are needed at 30 different cleanup sites in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Alabama Coastal Cleanup provides a t-shirt and clean up supplies to participants who collect trash. For more information or to contact a cleanup site captain to sign up to participate, go to www. AlabamaCoastalCleanup.com or call (251) 928-9792. Keep up with us on Facebook at Alabama Coastal Cleanup.
The South Alabama Out of the Darkness Community Walk for suicide awareness and prevention will take place Sunday, October 15 at Daphne City Hall from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The fundraising walk supports the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. There will be a Memory Wall and table set up at the Daphne Walk so pictures, poems and messages can be displayed. There will also be music, food, butterfly coloring and face painting for the children, and informational booths set up to distribute information. To register for the Walk and to donate, please go to afsp.org/ Daphne. For more information, please email jlbarber5@bellsouth.net.
What's 13ft. long and 800lbs.? Come meet Captain Crunch!
19950 Highway 71, Summerdale, AL 36580 | gatoralleyfarm.com Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
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Captains for Kids Special Needs Day of Fun
Captains for Kids offers a free fun day on the water for kids with special needs and illnesses by providing: fishing charters, sailing excursions, parasailing rides, dolphin cruises and water banana rides. Most events have space for the parents and sometimes a sibling or two to tag along, however, some activities are more limited on space. All activities are free of charge. Captains for Kids offers these activities at many different beach locations and marinas in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Perdido Key, Pensacola Beach, Destin, Ft. Walton Beach and Key Largo, Florida. Each event has a maximum seating capacity so pre-registration is required for each person in order to give you a smooth experience and to provide a passenger manifest to the captain. We will be having this year’s event on Saturday, September 9th with a rain day on Sunday the 10th. For more information, to register or to become get involved in this event call 850-438-5555, visit our website, www.captainsforkids.com or find us on Facebook!
Children’s of Alabama presents All In For Heart Event
The first-ever All In For Heart event kicks off on September 21 to benefit the Pediatric Congenital Heart Center at Children’s of Alabama. Friends in Mobile and Baldwin counties are invited to enjoy a night of faux casino games at The Pillars, located at 1757 Government St. in Mobile. Admission is $60 per ticket and $100 per couple. Starting at 6:30 p.m., attendees can enjoy fantastic food, complimentary beer and wine, live music and great prizes, and will receive $1,000 in “fun money” to play blackjack, craps and roulette. Guests are asked to dress in cocktail attire. For more information or to register online, visit give.childrensal.org/allinforheart, or call Kerrie Benson at (251) 610-4969. Event updates will be posted regularly to www.facebook.com/AllInForHeart.
Free “Never Forget” Lunch for First Responders
The Original Oyster House restaurants will honor Mobile and Baldwin County law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics and sheriff officers by offering a free “Never Forget” Lunch at either the Gulf Shores or Mobile Causeway location on Monday Sept. 11, 2017 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The 10th Annual Never Forget Lunch was established by the Original Oyster House restaurants in honor of the 9/11 First Responders who risked their lives to save, protect and serve and in recognition of all first responders for their service. “Let’s never forget the brave men and women that went above and beyond that tragic day in history. Please join us on Sept. 11th anytime between 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Just show your ID or better yet wear your uniform so we may recognize you with a handshake,” stated David Dekle, co-found of the Original Oyster House restaurants. LifeSouth Community Blood Centers will also be on hand at the Causeway restaurant for blood donations.
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Inaugural Paws for a Cause Dog Walk and Dog Show
American Autism & Rehabilitation Center (AARC) will host the inaugural Paws for a Cause Dog Walk and Dog Show on September 30. This event will raise much-needed funds for the center’s special-needs patients and will feature the walk, a dog show, food trucks, music and more! If you have a dog to bring, great! If not, come walk with us anyway and support a great cause! The walk will take place close to our facility, American Autism & Rehabilitation Center and will be 1-2 miles. Dog Show Categories will include: Best dressed/best costume; Dog most like it’s owner; Best young dog (6 months - 5 years); Best veteran (5 years+); Prettiest girl dog; Most handsome boy dog; Best in show; Best waggy tail; Large breed; Small breed; Best trick; Appealing eyes. To enter your dog, the entry fees are $5.00 per category entered or $20 for unlimited categories. If you would like to sponsor the event, please visit the event details page at AmericanAutismCenter.com, email nfo@americanautismcenter.com or call us at 251.210.1632!
Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation presents An Evening in the Big Easy
Tickets are on sale now for the Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation’s (FEEF) signature fundraiser, Phantasy of the Arts. This year Phantasy presents An Evening in the Big Easy on Saturday, October 7, 2017, 7 p.m. at the Fairhope Civic Center. Tickets are $100 per person for this 21 and older event. The night will begin with a stroll through Phantasy’s very own Jackson Square complete with local Fairhope student street performers and artists. Enjoy NOLA’s fine southern Cajun cuisine and signature drinks as you watch the game on the big screen or enjoy the live entertainment. Keys 2 the City dueling pianos will liven up the Big Easy Courtyard and The Blackwater Brass Brand will keep the good times rolling with their traditional Big Easy jazz and a little funk. Funds raised during the event help FEEF provide over 5,000 students in Fairhope public schools with special Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math programs. To purchase tickets or sponsor the event go to www.feefonline.org or call (251) 990-3333. Like FEEF on Facebook to learn more www.facebook.com/FEEFfairhope.
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
Backpacks and Bullies Now that school is in full swing, I want to discuss a few important topics that come up every year and have recently come up in both my practice and the national media. First is bullying. As you know, bullying is when one child picks on another child repeatedly. Bullying can be physical, verbal, or even social. It can happen at school, on the playground, on the school bus, in the neighborhood, or over the internet. Next, I want to talk about backpacks and safety issues for your child. First let’s discuss if your child is being bullied. Oftentimes, it can take a while to discover what is going on. Some kids are embarrassed, and some feel threatened if they “tell” on the bully. Look for clues, especially a sudden fear of school or the playground or even someone’s house. Bullies prey on fear, so if it is happening, here are some ways you can teach your kid to respond. First, teach your child to look the bully in the eye, stand tall and stay calm in a difficult situation, and then walk away. This seems so simple, but a bully only wants to pick on someone who is scared and fearful. Then, teach your child how to say in a firm voice: “I don’t like
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
what you are doing” or “Please do NOT talk to me like that!” The other important keys are to teach your child when and how to ask for help. If it continues to be a recurrent problem, then alert school officials to the problems and work with them on solutions. And last but not least, make sure there is an adult who knows about the bullying and can watch out for your child’s safety and well-being when you cannot be there. Now, the flip side is when your child is the bully. While none of our children would “ever do anything like that,” the reality is… it happens. So, be sure your child knows that bullying is NEVER o.k. and set firm and consistent limits on your child’s aggressive behavior. And be a positive role model. Your children learn the majority of their behavior at home. So, show children they can get what they want without teasing, threatening or hurting someone. And when it comes to disciplining your child, use effective, non-physical discipline, such as loss of privileges. If it becomes a frequent problem, then work to come up with practical solutions with the school principal, teachers, counselors, the child’s physician, and, most importantly, the parents of the children your child has bullied. If your child has witnessed any of this, then tell your child not to cheer on or even quietly watch bullying and remind your child to tell a
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trusted adult about the bullying. Help your child support other children who may be bullied and encourage your child to include these children in their activities. And certainly teach your child to join with others in telling bullies to stop. The last thing I want to touch on are backpacks. With every year, it seems kids have more books to carry from class to class and back and forth from home to school. This weight can cause a lot of problems with back, neck and shoulder pain. It’s important to have a backpack that is lightweight, but sturdy and has two wide, padded shoulder straps and a waist strap. To help prevent injuries, remind your kids to always use both straps and tighten them close to the body. In addition, pack all of the heaviest items closest to the center of the pack and remind them to bend down using both knees instead of at the waist. And most importantly, encourage frequent stops at lockers, and only carry home what they need. If symptomatic, see your doctor to discuss some back strengthening stretches and exercises. As always, good luck this school year and check out the resources on aap.org. Robert L. Rux, M.D. is a Board Certified Pediatrician at Magnolia Springs Pediatrics. Originally from Mobile, he attended medical school at The University of Alabama School of Medicine (UAB) and completed residency at The Children’s Hospital of Alabama (UAB). He is married to Jaime and has three children, Adler, Walker and Mary McAtee.
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Autauga County Schools I Am Baldwin Proud...But That’s Not All! The 2017-18 school year is underway and we couldn’t be more excited. Anyone who is near me for long knows that I often say, “I am Baldwin Proud!” I’m proud of you parents and the way you’ve raised your children to be respectful, courteous and eager to learn. Thank you for being an active part of the school and not just spotting ways that we can improve, but helping us to make a difference together. We are so much stronger (Community Strong) when we all roll up our shirtsleeves and give it all for our kids. I am Baldwin Proud when it comes to our fantastic teachers and administrators. They have worked so hard to be ready for the start of this school year. I’m always blown away by how they make a barren, blank-walled room come to life and sing. Our teachers are excited that our focus is squarely on academics. It is not on devices or programs, but ensuring our students achieve academic success with the student being our focus and the teacher being central to learning. I am Baldwin Proud because we are finally building the additional space we need to educate students. I’m not sure we’ll ever get ahead of the growth, but we are certainly trying to catch up. It is not breaking news that Baldwin County is the fastest growing county in Alabama and among the fastest growing counties in America. People move here for our enviable quality of life, and especially the reputation of our schools. We just celebrated ribbon cuttings for classroom additions at Elberta Elementary, Elsanor and Central Baldwin Middle. Later in the year we’ll have ribbon cuttings for classroom additions at Daphne East, Perdido Elementary/Middle and Fairhope High School. We’ll have ground breakings soon for classroom additions at Spanish Fort High School, Elberta High and Magnolia. While these are outstanding developments, I’m extremely pleased to report that the Baldwin County Board of Education has recently approved a $60 million Pay-As-You-Go construction program that will see two new schools built and five more classroom addition projects, including a new elementary school built on the Eastern Shore and an elementary school in Foley. Ground breaking on these will most likely be in early 2018. I want to stress this fact, we would not be doing any construction of this magnitude had it not been for the courage of the Baldwin County Commission stepping up and securing the one cent sales tax back in January of this year. What we would be doing is staring at a catastrophic scenario, the reduction in force of hundreds of employees and the loss of nearly $40M! It’s the one cent that is allowing us to build schools with NO additional taxes and with a plan that pays for the new construction in four years with less than two percent interest. Community and parent support are at an all-time high! I’m officially adding to “Baldwin Proud” the phrase “Community Strong”! I hope you’ll share the successes of your child everywhere you can, especially social media, and use the hash tags #communitystrong and #baldwinproud! New school year, here we come, as one...Community Strong, Baldwin Proud and making a difference for our students and our community!
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
Eddie Tyler
Your School Superintendent
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Autauga County Schools
GSMS Students Watch Eclipse with Glasses The PTSO at Gulf Shores Middle School purchased solar eclipse glasses for all students and teachers. Everyone was able to take part in the solar eclipse on the first day of school, August 21st. It was an incredible experience and a wonderful way to kick of a new school year!
Robertsdale Teachers Sport New School Shirt
Kindergarten teachers at Robertsdale Elementary started the new school year off by modeling their new school shirts, "Get Your Cray On." Shown in the picture are: Jennifer Cross, Bonnie McKenzie, Tiffany Hampton, Amanda Jeffery, Peggy Ellison, Sarah McKeough and Brooke Burkhart.
Local Dance Academy Performs at Saenger Theatre
This past spring Eastern Shore Dance Academy presented their 29th annual spring recital, “The Little Mermaid” and “By Land and By Sea”, at the historic Saenger Theatre in Mobile.
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OBES Teacher Selected to Attend Space Academy
Orange Beach Elementary School Teacher and Director of The Steven W. Baker, Sea, Sand, & Stars Science Center at Orange Beach Elementary School, Mrs. Nicole Bryant, had the honor of being the only Alabama teacher to be selected to attend the Honeywell Educators Space Academy at the Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville this summer on a full scholarship from Honeywell. While there she attended classes, completed missions to the moon and Mars, met astronauts, and so much more! This picture is from her experience on the 1/6th gravity chair which allows you to see what it would be like to walk on the moon. Honeywell selects 130 teachers from around the globe to participate in their week-long educators’ program.
Local Piano Students Named State Winners at District Competition
Local piano students Kate Ginger, Kathryn McCammon and Owen Poole received ratings with the top students at the state auditions and were successful in earning their designation as state winners. These area students are three of the four students chosen as state winners from our Southern district which includes nine counties. As a result of this honor, they have been invited to perform at the Alabama Music Teachers State Conference at Auburn University. Kate studies piano with Amy Morgan and Kathryn and Owen study with Tammy Dennis. www.easternshoreparents.com
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BMMS All-American Cheerleaders to Hold Fundraising Softball Tournament
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A slow-pitch softball tournament will be held Sept. 30 at O.C. Waters Park in Bay Minette. Proceeds will be used to help six All-American Cheerleaders from Bay Minette Middle School participate in the Main Street USA Thanksgiving Day Parade at Disney World. Elizabeth Howard, Emily Scarborough, Carlee Scott, Christin Watson, Sarah Jones, and Hannah Morris were named UCA All-American Cheerleaders at their UCA Camp this summer. To earn this honor, the girls had to compete and excel in an Xtreme Routine Dance, an All-American Cheer, and a jump. These girls are now preparing for the All-American Special Event at Walt Disney World in Florida where they will perform the Opening Performance of the Main Street U.S.A. Thanksgiving Parade at Magic Kingdom with other All-American Cheerleaders. Registration is $200 per team and must be paid prior to the start of the first game. Each team is guaranteed three 55-minute games with breaks in between. The tournament will include men’s and women’s teams. To register, call Heidi Branum at 251-753-7192 or Cheerleading moms Jamie Scott at251-689-4532 or Chrissy Watson at 251-404-0630. Pictured from left: Elizabeth Howard, Emily Scarborough, Carlee Scott, Christin Watson, Sarah Jones, and Hannah Morris.
Fairhope student Ellie Heath took part in an extraordinary leadership development experience at the 2017 Junior National Young Leaders Conference, an Envision program that provides a historical view of leadership and encourages young scholars to develop their own leadership skills and strategies for success in the 21st century. At the six-day conference, sixth-, seventhand eighth-grade students took part in fun and exciting workshops and participated in simulations to expand their leadership abilities. Scholars explored historically significant sites such as Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and memorials throughout Washington, D.C., to reflect upon and learn from leaders and events of the past. Students also worked with their peers to create action plans for change and put into practice when they returned home. For more information about the Junior National Young Leaders Conference visit www. envisionexperience.com/Leadership.
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Fairhope Student Attends Junior National Young Leaders Conference
LIFETIME To learn more about pre-k–12 education at Bayshore call 251-929-0011 or visit BayshoreChristian.org.
Christian, Classical, Life-Preparatory
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Spanish Fort HS Teacher Recognized for Outstanding Contributions
Autauga County Schools
Joni Ojard was awarded the Outstanding Contributions Award from the Alabama Association of Career and Technical Education Family and Consumer Science FACS Division.
Bay Minette Elementary Gym Revamped
Christ the King Holds Back-to-School Night
Christ the King Catholic School held its annual Back to School Night on Thursday, August 17. Teachers and staff welcomed students to their new classrooms and our PTO committee chairs were on hand to give out information on the upcoming school year events and activities. Parents and classmates reunited with old friends and met new ones as everyone prepared for the 2017-2018 school year. Pictured are new 6th graders, Bailey Crain, Jackie Holyfield, and Elizabeth Stroud.
Bay Minette Elementary School Gym is spruced up and ready for a new year. Baldwin County Board of Education employees painted and added new flooring in lobby, updated the bathrooms and revamped the trophy display case. The upgrade is a continuation of improvements that began last year when the gym floor was replaced (featuring new Tiger logo), walls were painted and some much-needed new lights were installed. The outdoor basketball court was also re-coated with new asphalt.
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Congratulations to the 2016-2017 BCS athletes! For the third year in a row, Bayshore athletes received the Wilson Award. This award is given to the school in the Panhandle Christian Conference that exhibits Christian characteristics and sportsmanship during the year. Sportsmanship was noted throughout all eight sports that BCS offers. These athletes continually show Christian characteristics year after year! On top of that accomplishment, 64% of these athletes were on the A or A/B Honor Roll for the 2016-2017 school year.
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Bayshore Christian School Wins Sportsmanship Award
The Gulf Shores Middle School PTSO has been revamping the school library. The project is led by parent Kristie Wheeles and donations have been made by Gulf Shores Builders Supply, Swift Supply, SherwinWilliams, Parker’s Enterprises, and the Kiwanis Club of Gulf Shores to make this vision possible. Many parents and grandparents came together before the start of school to paint the library, and the group is still working on new furniture and decorations. This has been a wonderful coming together of the community for our children! We look forward to seeing the students enjoy the new space.
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Sale Location:
Prodisee Pantry 9315 Spanish Fort Blvd. Spanish Fort, AL 36527
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Autauga County Schools
Robertsdale Archery Team Competes at World Competition
BMES Students View Eclipse on First Day of School
Robertsdale Elementary's Archery team competed at World Archery Competition on July 22 in Orlando. The team has had an amazing year by winning the regional competition, competing at state and nationals prior to competing at the World level. Way to go, Bears!
It was exciting for Bay Minette Elementary School students to experience the eclipse on the first day of school. Everyone said it was “amazing!”
Please Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com. DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY OF MOBILE
BUDDY WALK®
H NT E T
SATURDAY OCTOBER 21 10 a.m. Bienville Square Downtown Mobile
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Down Syndrome Society of Mobile hosts the Buddy Walk® each October to promote acceptance and inclusion of those with Down syndrome in the Mobile area. There's a one-mile walk through historic downtown, live music, special guests, games and much more! Register online today at www.dssmobile.org!
Down Syndrome Society of Mobile is a 501(c)3 organization. Sponsorship opportunities are available.
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Sea Cadets Learn How to Handle Rifle
Learning how to handle a firearm is an important factor as a Sea Cadet. This month, cadets from Dunlap Division out of Coast Guard ATC Mobile traveled to the Styx River shooting range to learn how to properly handle and shoot a rifle. Cadets were graded by their shots to qualify as a Marksman, Sharp Shooter, or Expert Marksman. These qualifications will help them in several different trainings. They attend these trainings with cadets from units across the country where they will be able to learn more and sharpen the skills they already have. The trainings Dunlap Division sent cadets to include; Recruit Training, League Orientation, Master-AtArms, STEM, and Local Recruiting Station Duty. Bravo Zulu Dunlap Division for another successful summer. Naval Sea Cadets is designed for young men and women ages ten to high school graduation who are interested in expanding their knowledge on our military. The sea cadets instill patriotism and leadership skills. Dunlap division meets one weekend a month at the U.S. Coast Guard Aviation Center in Mobile, the cadets are under no obligation to join the military; however, if they do decide to enlist the are usually eligible to enlist at a higher pay grade. The program does offer ROTC scholarships. If you or someone you know may be interested in joining our local unit as a cadet or adult leader, visit our national website at www.seacadets.org or contact our administrative officer ENS Angela Graham at Dunlap. seacadets@gmail.com. You may also follow our local unit Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DunlapDivision
Gulf Shores Middle School Staff Ready for New Year!
The Gulf Shores Middle School faculty and staff are ready for a wonderful 2017-2018 school year! If you want to see some of the amazing things happening at this school, make sure to follow them on social media (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter).
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Autauga County Schools
First Day of School Success at Bayshore Christian School
The first day of school was a success at BCS. Students were welcomed back with banners, and were given the chance to take pictures with hand-made photo frames noting their first day of school. Additionally, they were each given a welcome-back-to-school present to brighten their day! BCS welcomed 97 new students to their campus this year, as their enrollment rose to 320 K-12th grade students. Faculty and staff members prepared for weeks for the arrival of this school year.
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Robertsdale Cheer Camp
Robertsdale Elementary served as the host site for the RHS cheer camp the week of August first. The girls learned the fundamentals of cheerleading including cheers, chants and jumps. Cheer coach, Stephanie Kroll, served as camp director.
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Christ the King Welcomes New Staff
Christ the King Catholic School welcomes our new staff for the 2017-2018 school year. From left to right, Mrs. Emily Coate returns to CTKCS as our school librarian. Mrs. Amanda Lee, Mrs. Rosie Swanson, Mrs. Savannah Partin, and Mrs. Ashley Cunningham are our new Preschool Teachers.
Send School News and Photos to: lynn@ easternshoreparents.com!
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Newton’s Meet the Teacher 2017
It was all hands on deck at J. Larry Newton School’s 2017 Meet the Teacher event! On the
way to their new classrooms, eager students grabbed a photo opportunity with Queen Elsa and the Fairhope pirate. Students also received a balloon pirate sword and had their faces painted! Newton’s faculty and staff were equally excited to see returning children and welcome new students. Many families took the opportunity to register with Newton’s PTO, chat with Patrice Wolfe, principal, and Gina McClure, assistant principal, check in with the school nurse, and complete beginning of the year paperwork. The Newton Pirates “arrrrgh" ready for a fantastic year! 27
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Autauga County Schools Former RHS Basketball Player Hosts
Athletes at Bayshore Christian School Prepare for Competition
BCS athletes participated in cardiovascular training and weight training during the summer months in preparation for the year’s competition. While the soccer and volleyball teams will begin competition in the fall, both teams have been participating in scrimmage games. To make plans to attend a BCS athletic event, check out their website at www.bayshorechristian.org/athletics for updated schedules.
Camp at Robertsdale ES
Obie Trotter, former standout Robertsdale HS basketball player who is now a Pro basketball player in Europe, gave back to the community by hosting a basketball camp at Robertsdale Elementary in July. The students learned basketball fundamentals and engaged in scrimmages as well.
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Send School News and Photos to: lynn@ easternshoreparents.com for FREE publication in our next issue!
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23 New STEM and Outdoor Badges Enrich Girl Scout Programming
Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (GSSA) and Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) recently released new badges in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and the outdoors, areas girls are not typically encouraged to explore outside of Girl Scouting. The badges will debut on the organization’s first digital platform for volunteers, making it more accessible than ever to unleash the power of every girl. At a time when 81 percent of American voters think preparing girls for leadership roles should be a national priority, GSUSA—the preeminent leadership development organization for girls—offers girls even more opportunities to learn skills and empower themselves with the experiences they need to succeed in life. And as the Girl Scout Research Institute releases new findings that confirm the outstanding leadership outcomes that Girl Scouts exhibit compared to their non-Girl Scout peers, there has never been a better time to join. Through hands-on and age-appropriate experiences for girls as young as five, Girl Scouts is both enhancing the important outdoor opportunities the organization is known for and addressing the lack of exposure many girls have to STEM. In fact, Girl Scouts are almost twice as likely as non–Girl Scouts to participate in STEM (60 percent versus 35 percent) and outdoor activities (76 percent versus 43 percent). With the introduction of 23 new badges, which marks the largest programming rollout in almost a decade, Girl Scouts can design robots and racecars, go on environmentally conscious camping trips, write code, collect data in the great outdoors, try their hand at engineering, and so much more. GSUSA created programming that included contributions from many notable organizations. Collaborators include the STEM-focused Code.org, GoldieBlox, SciStarter, Society of Women Engineers, and WGBH/Design Squad Global, as well as the outdoor-focused Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics. The new Girl Scout programming builds girls’ skills and encourages their interest in STEM and environmental conservation from an early age, increasing their confidence in these areas—in an all-girl environment where they feel comfortable trying new things, taking appropriate risks, and learning from failure. For more information about the new badges, visit www.girlscouts.org/ourprogram.
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Robertsdale Teachers Share their Mission
Autauga County Schools
Robertsdale Elementary teachers posed with their mission terms which depict their purpose for teaching. Being a Leader in Me School, Robertsdale Elementary is passionate about developing children in the areas of academics, leadership and culture.
Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com for FREE publication in our next issue!
Spanish Fort High School Teachers Prep for New Year
Spanish Fort HS French teacher Mrs. Clark is pictured pitching in to help History teacher Ms. Richard wallpaper a new 8’ x 13’ world map up in her room.
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Spanish Fort High School Teachers Take Fun Break from School Preparations
Spanish Fort HS teachers and staff broke away from their pre-school meetings for some teambuilding activities at Eastern Shores Lanes for some buddy-bowling and lazer tag!
SFHS Student Wins MVP in All-Star Game Spanish Fort HS Junior setter Rielly Voight wins MVP in the summer all-star game for the South team in Montgomery.
Christ the King Peer Helpers Ready For New School Year
The Christ the King Catholic School 2017-18 Peer Helper Team has been preparing for the upcoming school year with a training session to learn different skills such as listening and problem solving, as well as role playing. Peer Helpers are trained to recognize when a peer is in need, to listen confidentially, and assist them with emotional, social, and academic challenges.
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Autauga County Schools Bay Minette Schools
Robertsdale Students Perform Summer Musical
Combine into One
The Summer ASCC program of Robertsdale Elementary culminated their summer session by performing a musical under the direction of Mrs. Susie Vivar. In the picture, students converse with Superintendent Eddie Tyler and Media Coordinator, Terry Wilhite.
It’s the first day of a new beginning for Bay Minette Elementary School. Over the summer, Bay Minette Elementary School and Bay Minette Intermediate School merged to one school and began a new chapter. Pictured is Ms. Sheils and 5th graders.
Please Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com.
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Autauga County Schools
Orange Beach Elementary School Fifth Graders Work on Leadership Notebooks
Newton Students Watch Eclipse Via NASA Livestream
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It’s the first day of classes at Orange Beach Elementary School and fifth graders in Mrs. Rayborn’s class are working on their Leadership Notebooks for the 2017-18 school year. Students are planning, setting goals and being proactive to ensure a successful year. OBES is in the third year of their Leader In Me work. The teachers and students are continuing their work on school culture and leadership with this year’s focus on academics.
Newton Elementary was over the moon to celebrate the solar eclipse which occurred on the first day of school! As the moon “popped” over the sun, students learned about this special event and enjoyed popcorn in their classrooms. Newton teachers planned fun lessons to make the most of this amazing learning opportunity, as students watched the eclipse via the NASA livestream. What an awesome start to the 2017-18 school year!
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First Day for W. J. Carroll Students
Mrs. Cindy Riley is as excited as her 6th grade students to start a new school year at W. J. Carroll Intermediate School. Also pictured are Elizabeth Thompson, Trey Tessier, Jordan Younger, and Braxton Walker, all #baldwinproud.
Allysa Mcneils, Hayden LaFroscia, Huxli Cothern, Devin Sanders, Collins McInnis at W. J. Carroll Intermediate School are excited to be in Mrs. Kathleen Carraway’s classroom for the 2017-2018 school year. #baldwinproud.
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Fourth graders at W. J. Carroll Intermediate School Jared Millwood, Brianna Thomas, Ginny Sulkosky, Annabelle Weatherby, Autumn Ling, Cade Johnson, Layla Jones, Sejay Johnson, Sierra Leniz, and teacher Ms. Mandy Ames are #baldwinproud and ready to start the new school year.
At Montgomery Children’s Specialty Center we believe that every child is a person of worth and value. We are proud to be a pediatric long-term care facility that accepts children ages 18 and under and who have severe developmental disabilities. Send School News to: lynn@ easternshoreparents.com.
2853 Forbes Drive | Montgomery, AL 36110 | (334) 261-3445 montgomerybytutera.com | See us on Facebook! 35
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Autauga County Schools
Fairhope Middle School Teacher Has Been Preparing for Eclipse for Over 10 Years
For over 10 years Mrs. Kinard, Science teacher at Fairhope Middle School, has been telling her students to meet her in Tennessee to witness a total solar eclipse. She never expected it to be the first day of a new school year. Plan B – take all the students at Fairhope Middle School outside with her to witness a partial solar eclipse! FMS took over 6 months to plan this event for their school. Mrs. Kinard secured grant funding from FEEF, the FMS PTC, and AMSTI (Alabama Math and Science Technology Initiative) to purchase certified solar glasses and solar equipment for labs, activities and demonstrations. Temperature and cloud data was collected before and after the eclipse that will be shared with a NASA site. We owe a big thank you to superintendent Tyler and our principal, Angie Hall, for allowing us to share this wonderful science learning experience with over 900 students, faculty, and guests. WKRG covered our event as one of their focal points of the eclipse experience. While things did not go as planned thanks to all the cloud cover, it was still a wonderful day! Most of the students got to witness the meeting of the sun and the moon, something they will never forget! The staff and faculty at FMS did an outstanding job in providing this experience for our students.
Welcome to Gulf Shores Middle School Gulf Shores Middle School Principal McCartney and Assistant Principal Earley are ready to welcome students to the 2017-2018 school year!
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First Day for Bay Minette 4th Graders
Bay Minette Elementary School is excited about the upcoming school year! Pictured, Mrs. Terry White welcomes a great group of fourth graders.
First Day at Newton School
The students and parents of Newton School arrived bright and early on August 21st and were excitedly greeted by teachers, staff, and administrators. Everybody at the school is looking forward to a fantastic school year filled with fun and learning! Go Pirates!
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Spanish Fort HS Loves their Support Staff! Spanish Fort High School honored their support staff as they welcomed everyone back to school.
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Spanish Fort ES Students View Eclipse
4th and 5th grade students at Spanish Fort Elementary School had a great first day of school. Both grades had the opportunity to view the eclipse outside while wearing their safety glasses. Other classes were able to view the eclipse via live stream in their class rooms.
First Day for Spanish Fort Kindergartners
Kindergarten students at Spanish Fort Elementary school kicked off the first day of school meeting their new friends and taking care of morning work.
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Daphne East Elementary First Day
Parents and students at Daphne East Elementary School started the new school year with bright smiles and excitement for the new school year.
Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy
Physical Therapy
Psychologist Diagnostician
Foley Elementary Students View the Eclipse
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Community Events
What better way to kick off the new school year at Foley Elementary School than to witness a solar eclipse! Students sported their safety glasses as they witness the wonderful event.
Eclipse Day at Fairhope Intermediate
251.210.1632
AmericanAutismCenter.com
Parents, community members, Board member Cecil Christenberry, Superintendent Tyler, children and teachers enjoyed the historical moment of the solar eclipse on the first day of school at Fairhope Intermediate School 39
And more!
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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston
A Crash Course in Teen Drug Use Maybe you saw the title of this article, and thought, “Well, this is one I don’t need to read. My kid would never do drugs!” I’m not here to frighten you, but if you believe your son or daughter will never be tempted to use harmful substances, you’re only setting yourself up for disappointment. We might like to think it’s the other kids who are using, and not our own. But according to recent studies, 1 out of every 5 teens is abusing alcohol, illegal, or legal drugs on a regular basis. Even high school students who aren’t presently using are telling researchers that they get offered prescription narcotics at least twice a day! In a world that increasingly embraces drug and alcohol use, moms and dads need to understand that this issue will come up in their child’s life. Parents also need to learn how to identify and discuss with their teens the many social pressures they will face to participate in substance abuse.
What’s Out There?
What would you say is the number one drug abused by teenagers today? Marijuana? Nicotine? In reality, more common than both of these are prescription drugs! Narcotics like Vicodin, Oxycotin, Ativan, Valium, Ambien, Adderall, and even Ritalin are popular medications being used recreationally among today’s adolescents. There is a huge market for sedatives, painkillers, and anti-depressants, so keep a tight lid on your medicine cabinet, and realize that those bottles on the shelf can be just as damaging as the dealers on the corner. Next to prescription drugs, marijuana is the second most common drug abused among teens. And you can’t turn on the television, listen to music, or read the newspaper without seeing prominent people coming out in support of legalizing this drug. As pot use becomes more common, teens who’ve never tried it may start to think, “Well, it can’t be too bad if that person is promoting it!” Parents, it’s not enough anymore to say, “It’s illegal!” We need to learn how to engage in a conversation about the dangers of marijuana in a different way. Another growing trend in narcotics is designer drugs. These are fairly common subEastern Shore Parents I September 2017
stances that have had their chemical structure altered in order to create a new product. These drugs are often sold in powder form, including LSD, PCP, Ecstasy, and Ketamine. This list of drugs and narcotics is not an exhaustive collection by any stretch of the imagination. But it’s a crash course for the uninformed on what’s being offered, pushed, and abused in our culture. The more you know about what is out there, the better prepared you will be to handle a teen who is caught in addiction, or tempted to experiment.
What Are the Signs?
Here are telltale signs to keep watch for: Constant use of eye drops. Smoking pot dries out the sinuses and causes bloodshot eyes. If your teen is going through bottles of eye drops, it might be a sign that they are using marijuana. Use of Goldenseal vitamins. Goldenseal is an herb that aids in fighting in the common cold and may help with digestive disorders, as well. But this herb is commonly believed to mask the presence of illegal drugs in urine. Overuse of air fresheners or incense. If you get into your teen’s car, or walk into their room, and it’s perfumed with heavy aromas, it may be a sign your child is trying to hide the smell of smoke. Drinking vinegar. Many people use vinegar for medicinal reasons, but for a teen using drugs, consuming vinegar could be an attempt to mask the smell of drugs on their breath, or hide the presence of narcotics in their urine. Small burns on their fingers. If you regularly notice small burns on a teen’s forefinger and thumb, that’s a strong indicator of drug use. Rapid weight loss, lack of energy, heavy perspiration, or small bruises on the arms, legs, or feet, are also signs of drug use. Emotional changes. Does your son seem to be depressed or angry? Is your daughter avoiding her friends or seem listless all the time? While these are signs of normal adolescence, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Wild swings in your child’s emotions could be a sign that they are turning to drugs or alcohol to cope.
What Do I Do?
If you’ve discovered that your teen has a problem with drugs, your next question is, “Now what do I do?” 40
First, if you’ve had a history with drugs in your past, don’t be afraid to share that with your son or daughter. Many parents are extremely hesitant to volunteer that kind of information to their kids, in fear that acknowledging mistakes gives kids license to repeat history. But that is simply not the case. Admitting why mom and dad know what they’re talking about actually adds credence and value to their words. Don’t glorify your past, but rather share the mistakes and regrets you have in this particular area. Second, don’t engage in an argument about the morality of using of drugs. Yes, marijuana is an herb; yes it’s been successfully used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Yes, many people want to legalize it. And yes, many successful and prominent people in society openly admit to smoking pot. But these are not the arguments that matter. What’s important is your son or daughter’s relationship to drugs. Always bring the discussion back to that personal level. The fact is, all drugs are addictive and can be destructive. Explain that you care for your teen, and don’t want them to be held captive to any substance. Narcotics are designed to dull our senses and trick our minds into feeling a certain way. Drugs don’t improve our lives in any way. Their purpose is simply to alter our emotions, and eventually they hold us prisoner. Many teens have told me that after using drugs for awhile, it got to the point where they needed those crutches to go to school, deal with their family, or relax. As you talk to your teens about drugs, put yourself in the same scenario. What would your teen say if you needed a couple of beers for breakfast before going to work? Or you needed to pop a pill in order to sit down at the dinner table and relax? Wouldn’t they be concerned for you? Lastly, seek help. Drugs have the capability to sink their claws into our kids so deep that it can be extremely difficult to pry them loose. If your child is caught in the snare of drugs, enlist some allies to help you free them. Find sponsors or programs that give them tools to overcome cravings and addictions. Read books or articles that delve deeper into counseling teenagers dealing with drugs. You don’t have to face this alone. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.
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Using the Grandchild for Money Q.
My wife and I have been helping our adopted daughter financially for some time. She’s 25, has been married for three years, and we don’t see this cycle stopping anytime soon. The worst part is, they will often throw in that our grandchild will go without something unless we help. We’re certain this isn’t teaching them to stand on their own feet, but we don’t know what else to do.
A. You’re right about one thing. It’s time they both learned how to handle money like mature, responsible adults. I don’t know how much your tried to teach her about finances when she was growing up, but it sounds like this “needing help” thing is turning into an endless cycle. You’re giving them money left and right, and it’s not working. You’re giving them fish, and you’ve heard that whole saying. You could also teach them to fish and then not give them any fish, but I like a third choice in this scenario — give them
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fish only if they take fishing lessons. They get no more money from you unless they get financial counseling together and make a serious move toward straightening up their lives. If they try to play on your feelings by saying your grandchild is hungry, tell them to send the child over for a meal. If they run out of money until payday, tell them to go to their financial counseling session to find answers. Right now, every time they have a problem they call mom and dad. Guess what? They don’t have any problems as long as you’re doing what you’re doing. Love them well. Hold their hands and say, “When I was your age, I wish someone had done this for me. I’m not going to give you any more money unless you go to financial counseling sessions regularly and together. If you do this, turn in a budget to us and let us coach you on how to be adults and handle your own money well, we’ll help and set up a matching system. If you don’t do the matching part though, you won’t see anything from us.”
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They’ve figured out if they hold your feet to the fire when it comes to this grandbaby, you’re going to open the wallet. They’re playing you right now, and it’s not to their benefit — or yours!
Borrow against retirement? Q.
I have an opportunity to take a loan against my 401(k) retirement, and pay myself interest. Is this a good idea?
A.
Actually, you’ll end up costing yourself interest. Never take a loan against your retirement! When you pay interest against your retirement, you cost yourself interest. If you leave the company — which you will someday — the loan against the 401(k) is due within 60 days. If you don’t pay it off, they consider it an early withdrawal and you’ll get taxed and penalized big-time. If you have a certifiable emergency, like owing the IRS or facing a foreclosure, you may have to withdraw some. You’ll still get taxed, but please don’t ever borrow against retirement!
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Reports in the media about helicopter parents have been skyrocketing over the past decade. The consensus from college counselors and entry-level employers is that parents are going too far making sure their kids get ahead in high school, college and beyond. Instead of being helpful, parents are hovering. Rather than supporting tweens and teens, parents are swooping in and negotiating outcomes for them. But when kids don’t learn to trust their ability to navigate their own experiences, they become more helpless, which leads to shirking responsibilities and assuming mom and dad will pick up the slack on their behalf.
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On the opposite end of the parenting spectrum is a type of parent who is not discussed as much in the media as the helicopter parent--the absentee parent. These parents are too busy, distracted and pre-occupied to meet the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of their children. Absentee parents may be physically present but struggle to pay enough attention to their children for many reasons, which may include job demands, marital distress, divorce, addiction, mental illness, financial problems, domestic violence or unhealed wounds from childhood. As the name implies, absentee parents may either be elsewhere permanently or frequently away from home. Despite suggestions in the media that parents should back off, checking out is not the antidote to helicopter parenting. Kids need parents to be present, engaged and involved in their lives. In the middle of the two parenting extremes, helicopter and absentee, is the happy medium kids crave--the present, self-aware parent who possesses healthy boundaries and wants children to learn them, too. Helpful parents practice benign neglect, where they step out of the way on purpose to give a child chances to stretch and grow. Most parents want the best for their kids and are doing as well as they can, but helpful parenting skills may require a little extra study and practice because they are
not always instinctive. Let’s take a closer look at the qualities of helpful parents.
1. Available to listen. Kids don’t always
need parents to fix everything for them. More often, they just need to be listened to and heard. Parents are older and wiser and will usually be able to discern solutions to problems more swiftly than kids. But if parents always assert their advantage in problem solving, kids won’t get the opportunity to figure things out for themselves. The solution is to listen to kids and ask questions. Help your child discover that she has good instincts and can use your family values to deduct possible solutions to challenging situations.
2. Emotionally detached.
Above all, parents need to refrain from swooping in and taking over whenever a problem presents itself. The more parents intervene, the more they deprive kids of valuable learning experiences. I have just as strong a mama bear instincts as the next mom, and if I perceive that my daughter is being treated poorly, my blood pressure can surge. The instinct to protect is a natural one and must be regulated. The more often you react emotionally to information your child shares, the less likely your kids will want to share with you
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in the future. So get in the habit of saying things like, “I am sorry to hear that you were treated that way. How did that make you feel?” It’s helpful for kids to be able to name and own their feelings, and this can buy you a bit of time to calm down.
3. Willing to discuss.
Sometimes, when you are talking to your kids about challenging situations in their lives, they may ask you if you had a similar experience when you were their age. If you are the kind of parent who can come up with personal anecdotes on the fly, your kids will appreciate knowing they are not the only ones to struggle. If like me, you are not as quick to scan your memory files and come up with a relatable story, that’s okay, too. Even if you think of something two hours after the conversation is over, chime in the next time the opportunity arises. Our children need to see us as the fallible people we were and not just as the all-knowing adults we seem to have become. Let your kids connect to a younger, less savvy version of you and you’ll feel more connected.
4. Prepared to help.
Once you are done listening and discussing a situation with a degree of emotional detachment, it may be time to offer assistance. But if your
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Sometimes it’s hard for parents to relinquish control when they can envision a perfect future for their kids. But their vision may interfere with their teen’s ability to imagine a life they are excited to lead. child rebuffs your offer, try not to take it personally. The key is to communicate that your door is always open. “Just let me know if you want to talk about this more,” is a good way to let kids know that help is available if they decide they want it. Or you can simply ask, “Do you want to discuss this with anyone else or do some research on the topic?” Don’t be afraid to bring more people into the discussion. You might say, “You know who might have some insights on this topic? Dad.” Pushing for immediate solutions may make kids feel more anxious. You don’t have to have all of the answers, every time. Children need to process information in their own way and at their own pace.
5. Supportive from the back seat.
Kids need to learn how to advocate for themselves and parents can assist with this process without taking over. At the end of my daughter’s first year of middle school, she wanted to try out for the talent
show. She had sung a song in the elementary school talent show and the experience had been empowering. So when she auditioned in middle school and didn’t make the cut, she was disappointed, but trying hard to pretend she wasn’t. I encouraged her to go speak to her choir teacher about it. “Why not ask her what you might do differently next time?” I suggested. My daughter said she would talk to her, and then dragged her feet, while continuing to feel badly. After a few days, I sent the teacher a quick email asking her to initiate a conversation, which she did. As my daughter relayed their discussion to me in the car after school, she burst into tears, finally releasing the sadness underneath the disappointment. The next year, she picked a more upbeat song, and happily made the cut.
6. Conscious of boundaries.
Sometimes it’s hard for parents to relinquish control when they can envision a perfect future for their kids. But their vision may interfere with their teen’s ability to imagine a life they are excited to lead. The goal of helpful parenting is healthy boundaries. You are not your child and your child is not you.
If you don’t have appropriate limits as a parent, you won’t be able to model them for your child. Parents who habitually overstep teach their kids that their own opinions are not important. Cultivating solid boundaries is everything when it comes to raising kids who can think and act for themselves. Kids with poor boundaries will likely have difficulty forming and maintaining healthy relationships in the future.
7. Accessible in a crisis.
If you want to be the first person your child calls in a genuine crisis, you have to earn that role by being cool, calm and considerate in the face of whatever goes down. If your kids don’t believe you can hold it together, they will look elsewhere for help. If you are not your child’s go-to person in a crisis, don’t be mad at them. Look at your parenting history, and consider what adjustments you need to make to become a caring, supportive space for your children. Make sure your children know you are not perfect, and remember they are not perfect, either. When you let your kids be imperfect, you encourage them to take risks, make mistakes, and figure things out as they mature, just like you. ESP Author, journalist and writing coach Christina Katz tries to be a helpful parent to the best of her ability, while making plenty of mistakes along the way. She gave up on perfection a long time ago, which has certainly helped.
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“Why do you talk like that?” I heard the question come from behind me as I helped another child in the Sunday school class.
answer, “It’s just the way I am,” after years of questions about her differences. Our kids have grown up around their beloved Aunt Kara and accept her as she is but there came a time when each of them have asked about Kara’s disability and why it makes her different. Chances are, at some point, your child will meet someone at school or in the community that has disabilities. It is normal for children to have questions about people who are different, which means parents should be prepared to answer their questions in an intelligent and appropriate way. Here are some tips to get the conversation started:
“It’s just the way I am.” I heard my sister-in-law wisely answer the curious boy. My sister-in-law, Kara, was born with Cerebral Palsy. She was helping me in the classroom that day when one of the kids noticed her speech is different. Kara has been taught to
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Everyone is different but the same
All of us have unique gifts, personalities, and challenges. No two people are the same and this is a great thing because diversity makes life interesting and fun. While we are all different, everyone has things in common too. All people, including people with disabilities, want to have friends, be shown respect, and have the desire to be accepted. Encourage your child to embrace the differences of others and find common ground, as well. If your child is interested in a popular television show, book, toy, or game, chances are a person with special needs is too. Ask them what they love to do, I would guess they will be happy to tell you.
Types of disabilities
Some disabilities are obvious and some are not. Some people may need a walker or wheelchair to help them move around. Others may have a cognitive (thinking) disability that is not as visible. Explain in simple terms that people struggle with different things and may need a little extra help from a physical tool (like a wheelchair) or help from others. People can have impairments with sight, hearing, walking, speech, cognitive, or a variety of other things. It is important to note that just because someone is in a wheelchair, it does not mean they have a cognitive disability. Also, disabilities are not contagious and children are not going to “catch” the disability. These things may sound obvious to adults, but children process things differently and many have these questions.
Name calling is never okay
Emphasize that people with disabilities have feelings too. Name calling is hurtful, disrespectful, and is a form of bullying. People with disabilities need others to stand up for them when they cannot stand up for themselves. Encourage your child to tell an adult if kids are teasing another child. Your child can be an example to others by being kind and respectful. Parents can set an example by using positive language and behavior towards others, as well.
A note about “rude” comments
Kids are curious and love to ask questions. Many times they will speak exactly what is on their mind, without thinking about whether the comments will be hurtful. This can be very embarrassing to parents. So what do you do if your child blurts out a rude and embarrassing comment? Start by answering calmly and matter of factly. If, for example, your child says, “Why is that boy in a wheelchair?” simply answer, “He needs it to move around. Why don’t you say hello?” If the child is reluctant, say hello to him yourself along with something like, “John likes trains. Do you like trains too?” If the person accompanying the child responds, follow their lead. It is always better to treat others as you would like to be treated than to hurry away in an embarrassing situation. Later, when you are at home, you can ask your child if they have any other questions about others with disabilities and reinforce the value of treating everyone equally. My sister-in-law, now 38 years old, has been asked many questions over the years, some rude and some just curious. She has learned to handle them well because she knows that, just like anyone else, she has challenges to overcome and successes to celebrate. Kara loves watching movies, dancing to music, and taking care of animals. She loves eating candy, pizza, and tacos. She is fun to be around and loves to get out and explore new places. People with disabilities are just people. Sometimes that simple fact is all kids need to know. ESP Sarah Lyons is a contributing writer and has been published in more than 100 parenting publications.
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Is Your Family Using Technology Wisely? Not long ago, a search engine company called ReportLinker surveyed 670 families with children under fifteen to better understand the relationship between American kids and their devices. The results are a snapshot of how technology has been integrated into American families. In many ways, parents are following recommendations from experts including the American Academy of Pediatrics. But in a few key areas, parents seem to be ignoring best practice and following the path of least resistance. To get an idea of where your family falls, answer the following questions and compare your family’s tech habits to those of other families as well as recommendations from AAP. How many screens do you have at home? When you count TVs, computers, tablets, smartphones and game consoles, the average number of screens per family is 7.3. Most households own a TV (94%), and about half have a video game console. Just over three quarters of the families had at least one smartphone in the household, and 62% of parents said their kids spent 3 to 5 hours a day using a smartphone. The average age when kids get their own phone is 13 and a half. For computing, families are more likely to use laptops (78%) than desktops (63%). The researchers also noted that among families with kids under ten, tablets are very popular—58% of children under 5 use them--and they may eventually rival television as the device of choice. Perhaps the most interesting statistic is about technology in bedrooms. The AAP recommends that bedrooms be device free and children “avoid exposure to devices or screens for one hour before bedtime.” Despite that advice, about two thirds of the families with five or more Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
devices allow kids to have one in the bedroom and, not surprisingly, those kids are more likely to use devices before they sleep. How many hours per day do your kids interact with technology? Having more devices in the household also increased the amount of time kids spend with technology. Half the parents said they limit “plug in” time to less than two hours a day, but that rule is more likely to be enforced in families that have fewer devices and keep them out of bedrooms. The AAP recently revised its guidelines to say that “parents must develop personalized media use plans” based on each child’s age, health, temperament and developmental stage. They also point out that parents must be sure technology doesn’t squeeze out other healthy activities including sleep, physical play and time away from media. When do your kids use technology? Over 80% of families said kids used devices during their spare time; only 6% allowed them to be used at mealtime. That’s consistent with the AAP recommendation that mealtimes be media-free. Is technology a positive or negative influence on your kids? Experts continue to argue about whether technology is changing childhood, but three quarters of parents believe devices are good for kids. Half say technology creates more benefits than risks, and 25% believe being comfortable with technology is essential for kids in the 21st century. For the 25% who feel technology has a negative impact on children, 11% believe technology creates more harms than benefits and 14% feel that technology “ruins the essence of childhood.” What are the main disadvantages of using tech devices? Twenty percent of parents couldn’t think of any disadvantages. 50
A third worried that technology kept children from more traditional childhood activities such as playing, going outside or reading. Thirty one percent were concerned that time with devices made kids more isolated and less social. Only 10 percent worried about kids being less creative and 4% were concerned about increased aggression. To those concerns, AAP adds sleep disruption, the risk of obesity because of too much sedentary time and problematic Internet use including online bullying. What are the main advantages? When asked about benefits of technology, parents were clear: 40% felt technology promotes cognitive development and school readiness. About a quarter agreed that technology expands a child’s horizons, and another quarter thought access to devices makes kids more savvy about using technology of all kinds. Only 7% admitted using tech gadgets to amuse kids so they could do something else. AAP guidelines also note the social benefits of devices, including the opportunity to interact with distant friends and family members. Do your children manage their own tech time? Over half of parents (58%) believe their kids can manage their own time on electronic devices. Ironically, in the households where children use screens more than five hours a day, 43% of parents think kids are doing a perfectly good job of time management. On the other hand, if you sometimes find it difficult to manage screen time, you’re not alone; 42% of parents admitted they feel the same way. How often do you know what content your kids are watching? Even though parents vary a lot in how much access they give kids to technology, they agree with the AAP on one thing—it’s important to monitor what kids are consuming. Eighty three percent say they keep an eye on what kids watch, and 71% claim to have activated parental controls. Of course, one survey isn’t definitive, but it does reveal places where parents are on the right track—and improvement is possible. In the end, every family has to devise a device policy that works for them. To help, the AAP offers an interactive tool called Create Your Family Media Plan. Find it by looking for Media Plan at healthychildren.org. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2017, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.
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When Tracy Glock’s 13-month-old daughter Kira was hospitalized with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, she was touched by the outpouring of support she and her husband received. During those eight difficult months, the community rallied around the family. Friends and acquaintances babysat Kira in the hospital while her mom and dad worked, and many others helped by delivering meals and even mowing the family’s lawn. “Words cannot express the gratitude you feel when someone you barely know does so much for you,” Glock says, who was also pregnant at the time with Kira’s sister, Allina. Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
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Although Kira, now seven, has recovered from the frightening ordeal, she still faces many daily challenges. As a child with Down syndrome and autism, learning and development takes longer and requires more patience compared to the typically developing child. Like many parents who have children with special needs, Glock says finding time for herself is difficult. While many of us know how to help a family in crisis, how do we support parents who often put their own needs last as they focus on the daily challenges of caring for special needs youngsters?
Offer to babysit. Finding trustworthy, alternate caretakers is a huge relief for parents who regularly juggle doctor’s appointments, school issues and therapy, not to mention jobs and other children. “Every special needs parent’s needs are different, but most just love a little rest,” Glock says. Because special needs children require more attention from their parents, healthcare providers and therapists, other youngsters in the family may feel slighted. “Children always struggle and this is the case whether they’re special needs or not,” says Nancy Masannat, mom to two children, including Emy, 16, and Kyle, 14, who is on the autism spectrum. “There’s going to be sibling jealousies.” When her children were younger, Masannat would often schedule her son’s appointments during times when her daughter was in preschool. “In my daughter’s mind, it wasn’t fair that someone was coming to the house and playing with her brother and not her.” Having access to a qualified babysitter you can trust with your special needs child, can give you an opportunity to spend much-needed, one-on-one time with your other children too. Listen. Ask your friend how she’s doing and then simply listen. Avoid offering platitudes or suggestions to help her fix problems. “We all just like to be heard. Everybody likes to vent,” Masannat says. “Just listen to what the issues are without judgment. That’s a huge help for everybody, but primarily when you’re dealing with something that someone else might not understand.” Educate yourself. Get to know your friend’s child, including her disability, her personality quirks and her individual needs. And ask your friend about her specific parenting challenges. 53
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“It shows that you care and will help you provide more effective support,” says Heather Trammell, mom to two special needs children, including Beth, 14, who has Down syndrome and Marie, 11, who has high-functioning autism. Both girls also have a connective tissue disorder called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
Suggest resources. Support
groups help parents feel less alone and provide valuable resources for assistance in childcare, school issues and navigating healthcare. “The biggest thing for me was to know that I wasn’t in this by myself--that I wasn’t the only person who had a child who didn’t sleep well; that I wasn’t the only one with a child who was now three and not talking,” Masannat says. To find support groups in your area, consult with the therapists and teachers your child already works with, your library, your church and online. For example, www.autismspeaks.org, which includes resources for families or the National Down Syndrome Society, www.ndss.org. Also check out Facebook and MeetUp. com for local support groups. (Also, find Support Groups in this month’s Special Needs Guide immediately following this article.)
Other ideas to brighten your friend’s day: • Purchase a gift certificate for a massage or manicure. • If you plan to have the family over, ask your friend if you should be aware of any food sensitivities or specific ground rules to ensure a successful visit. • Offer to babysit and/or help with siblings. • Help with getting kids to practices. • Deliver a meal. • Mow their lawn. • Send a bouquet of cheerful flowers. • Arrange for a house cleaning crew. • Ask if you can pick up anything while running errands/ • Mail an encouraging card. ESP
Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines, and her husband are the parents of two sons. She is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life.
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Feeding Program Eases Mealtime Struggles Mealtime is a time when many families life, but he still has gastrointestinal symptoms gather, not only to eat, but to share their day. including acid reflux. However, in some cases, this doesn’t happen “Andrew’s feeding can be painful and because one of the family members may uncomfortable at times. Through feeding have difficulties with therapy, we have learned how to alfood textures or swalleviate some of Andrew’s symptoms, lowing. The pediatric making our feeding experience more program at Thomas enjoyable, and reducing the risk of Hospital offers a comserious complications like aspiraprehensive feeding tion. The therapists are not just there program in the Mobile to help Andrew, but have provided Bay area. Their team unbelievable support for me and my of speech-language husband as well. They have been pathologists and ocable to help ease my frustrations and cupational therapists disappointment when things don’t go work with a child’s just right and have helped formulate physician and family questions that need to be addressed members to provide by our doctors. We have made great feeding and swallowing strides in Andrew’s progress and it therapy for children of is largely due to our wonderful and Thomas Hospital therapists work with all ages. dedicated therapists.” caregivers and patients to find the right “The feeding combination of techniques to benefit For some children, it is the texeach family. therapists at Thomas ture, smell or color of food that limits Hospital have helped their ability to eat. “The feeding prome work through my son’s feeding issues,” gram has been the most amazing experience says Margaret Whitehurst. Her son Andrew for me and my child,” says Tracey Farnell. was born with a tracheoesophageal fistula “Our therapist, Amber Miller, is patient, kind (connection between the esophagus and traand a wonderful resource. When we started chea) that was repaired on his second day of the feeding program, I could count on one
hand how many things Brendan would eat. Not only were his choices extremely limited, but he was not tolerant of having unfamiliar foods on his plate. Before we started the program I would try to get him to tolerate touching, smelling and tasting new foods. Most attempts were unsuccessful, with many attempts causing major meltdowns. Now Brendan takes a lunchbox to therapy. We’ve reached the point where he is very intrigued by what we prepare and he no longer has tantrums. I honestly think it’s because he knows that even though he’s going to have to try eating something he’s never tried before, which is very scary for someone on the autism spectrum, he trusts Amber, knows she cares about him and she understands him. The feeding program is a huge blessing to me, to Brendan and to my family. We recently went out to eat and had what I call a “ successful dinner out ” without having to pack Brendan his own meal. For me that is HUGE, and ultimately for Brendan, it’s life changing. To enlist these services provided by the pediatric therapy staff at Thomas Hospital a referral is required. All referrals require a diagnosis and valid physician signature. Please contact Thomas Hospital Physical Therapy at (251) 279-1640 with questions or to make a referral.
EXTRAORDINARY CHILDREN, EXCEPTIONAL CARE. Are meal times difficult? Does your child have difficulty interacting with others? The Infirmary Therapy Services team can help you and your child build a foundation for more enjoyable mealtimes and better interactions. If you have a child with autism or other special needs, the staff provides many services including a feeding program, sensory room, iPad learning and assistance with social and motor skills.
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Experience the difference therapy makes. For more information, call 251-279-1640.
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The Alabama Public Library for Blind and Physically Handicapped provide special format materials and unique playback equipment are provided free of charge to those who qualify for the services. Free mailing privileges are provided by the United States Postal Service. Books are checked out for a 90 day loan period and can be renewed once for 30 days. (800) 392-5671 or (334) 213-3906 bph@apls.state. al.us www.statelibrary.alabama.gov
Alabama Special Education Services
50 North Ripley Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 242-9700
vm@alsde.edu ?
www.alsde.edu
ALL KIDS Insurance
201 Monroe Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 (888) 373-5437 ALLKids@adph.state.al.us www.adph.org/allkids
Civitan International Research Center (University of Alabama at Birmingham)
1720 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294 The Civitan International Research Center (CIRC) is an interdisciplinary center focusing on the development of the mind-brain through our unique mission of service, education and research. The CIRC was established in 1989 on the campus of the University of Alabama at Birmingham with the support of Civitan International - a volunteer service organization. The mission of the Civitan International Research Center is to improve the well-being and the quality of life of individuals and families affected by intellectual and developmental disabilities. (800) 822-2472 or (205) 934-8900 www.uab.edu/medicine/circ/
ADD/ADHD Lopez Family Chiropractic ad on page 34
401 North Section Street, Fairhope, AL 36532 Dr. Lopez helps children and adults suffering with the symptoms of ADD/ADHD by utilizing one or more of the following: Neurofeedback (a form of Biofeedback therapy), Metabolic Assessments with Nutrition Support, Chiropractic Care and/or Oxygen Therapy. (251) 928-5058 kylelopez@bellsouth.net www.MaximizedLivingDrLopez.com
Attention Deficit Disorder Assoc. (ADDA)
The Attention Deficit Disorder Association provides information, resources and networking opportunities to help adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder lead better lives. We provide hope, empowerment and connections worldwide by bringing together science and the human experience for both adults with ADHD and professionals who serve them. (800) 939-1019
info@add.org
www.add.org
Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders (CHADD)
Provides education, advocacy and support for individuals with AD/HD. In addition to our informative Web site, CHADD also publishes a variety of printed materials to keep members and professionals current on research advances, medications and treatments affecting those with AD/HD. (301) 306-7070 or (800) 233-4050 affiliate-services@chadd.org www.chadd.org
Feingold Association of the United States
Providing informational materials, online/telephone support, and resources. Helping families introduce low-additive dietary programs for children with learning/ Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
behavior problems and chemically sensitive adults. The Feingold® Association of the United States is dedicated to helping children and adults apply proven dietary techniques for better behavior, learning and health, and to generating public awareness of the role of foods and synthetic additives in behavior, learning and health problems. (631) 369-9340 help@feingold.org www.feingold.org
Focus MD
28080 US Highway 98, Suite F, Daphne, AL 36526 (251) 517-9025
www.adhddaphne.com/
(251) 378-8635
www.adhdmobile.com
3930-F Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608
Focus MD is a medical practice for kids and young people with AD/HD and related problems. Dr. James Wiley started FOCUS MD so that he would have more time to devote to the diagnosis and treatment of these patients. Focus MD provides objective testing, medical treatment and behavior modification strategies.
Alabama Resources Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network
1856 Keats Drive , Huntsville, AL 35810 Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network® (Alabama Respite) is a statewide program of United Cerebral Palsy of Huntsville and Tennessee Valley, Inc. Alabama Respite’s website offers information for caregivers and service providers wishing to learn more about our activities and programs. The website hosts an interactive database of agencies that provide respite services specific to Alabama’s counties. (256) 859-4900 info@alabamarespite.org www.alabamarespite.org
Alabama Public Library Service-Al Regional Library (Blind and Physically Handicapped) 6030 Monticello Drive Montgomery, AL 36117
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Governor’s Office on Disabilities
602 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery, AL 36104
(888) 879-3582 or (334) 293-7228 marlene.word@good. alabama.gov www.good.alabama.gov
John 9:3 Foundation
Baldwin County Area The John 9:3 Foundation works to aid and assist those who are on the Autism Spectrum and their families, as well as identify and serve the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. We provide resources to those in need through partnerships with existing Non-Profit Organizations, as well as pastoral counseling and in kind contributions. (251) 455-7411 john93foundation@gmail.com www.john93foundation.com
Mobile Arc
2424 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 Mobile Arc (MARC) is a nonprofit advocacy and service system for people with developmental disabilities. We help them become active members of the community by providing opportunities for education, employment, transportation, housing, and recreation. (251) 479-7409
www.mobilearc.org
Southeast Americans with Disability Act Center Our website contains information, training and guidance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Serving Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. (800) 949-4232 or (404) 541-9001 ADAsoutheast@law.syr.edu www.adasoutheast.org
Speech-Language-Hearing Association of Alabama
SHAA offers resources for consumers on our website, though we do not provide or arrange speech and hearing services to consumers. Our mission is to make continuing education and other services available to
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speech and hearing professionals, in order to maintain the high quality of therapy provided in our state.
Autism Diagnostics Clinic -
Technology- STAR (Statewide Technology Access and Response for Alabamians with Disabilities)
ad on Inside Front Cover
(256) 325-8885 Info@AlabamaSHAA.org www.alabamashaa.org
602 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 (800) 782-7656 or (334) 293-7143 www.rehab.alabama.gov/star
Vocational Rehabilitation-Department of Rehabilitation Services (251) 479-8611 or (800) 671-6842 www.rehab.alabama.gov
Autism American Autism and Rehabilitation Center
ad on page
8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 American Autism & Rehabilitation Center (AARC) is a facility aimed at treating a variety of special needs in one convenient location. Our services are for children and adults and include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, ABA therapy, psychological/ diagnostic services, educational services, pharmaceutical services and more. Our highly-trained professionals work collaboratively to provide treatment plans as unique as the individual. We offer a family-centered approach and seek to provide hope and help to each patient and family. (251) 210-1632 info@americanautismcenter.com www.Americanautismcenter.com
Alabama Autism & Asperger’s Statewide Info & Support Network
USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital Pediatric Developmental Medicine Center (PDMC)
We are uniting, making connections and sharing knowledge and support for all 67 counties in our state & the world. A hub for Autism related info, events, videos, & support.
1601 Center Street, Mobile, AL 36604 The USA Autism Diagnostic Clinic sees patients with referral from a physician or other medical/educational professional. The USA Autism Diagnostic Clinic evaluates patients up to ten years of age. Services include: Medical Assessments, Cognitive Evaluation, Speech/Language Evaluation, Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), Genetics Evaluation, Occupational Therapy Evaluation, Assistance with Community Resources, Consultation by affiliated specialists with expertise in autismrelated conditions. (251) 434-3711 or (251) 410-5437 www.usahealthsystem.com/autism-diagnosis
Autism Society of Alabama ad on page 31
205 Lambert Avenue, Suite C, Mobile, AL 36604 The Autism Society of Alabama’s mission is to improve services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families through education and advocacy. Programs and services offered include: Information and Referral Specialist, Online Resource Directory, Family Camps, Network Support Groups in counties statewide, innovative website with a Transition Roadmap, Respite Program to give caretakers a break, First Responder Trainings, Conferences and Sensory Friendly Alabama. (251) 259-5553 or (877) 4AUTISM info@autism-alabama.org www.autism-alabama.org
alabamaautism@gmail.com www.alabamaautism.org
Alabama Learning Exchange (ALEX)
The Alabama Learning Exchange includes multimedia, learning activities, lessons, and unit plans all connected by the Alabama College and Career Ready Standards (CCRS) to promote deeper-learning for success in college, careers, and our global society. The ALEX mission is to provide teachers, school leaders, students and parents with quality, content-rich curriculum resources. administrator@alex.state.al.us www.alex.state.al.us/autismAL
Auties & Aspies of LA- Lower Alabama Community Support Group
Fairhope, AL 36532 A community dedicated to support for and awareness of those on the Autism Spectrum and their families in lower Alabama. The goal is to be able to share information, support, and pray with other families who are living similar experiences. www.facebook.com/AutiesandAspiesofLA
Autism Society of America
Autism Society of America provides services in the areas of advocacy, education, awareness and research. We provide free, comprehensive, bilingual Information and Referral services via our toll-free number and through our online referral database, Autism Source TM. Our contact center is open Monday through Friday from 9am - 9pm. (800) 328-8476 info@autism-society.org www.autism-society.org
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Autism Speaks
At Autism Speaks, we are dedicated to funding global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a possible cure for autism. Autism Response Team coordinators are specially trained to connect individuals and their families with information, resources, and opportunities. (888) 288-4762; en EspaĂąol (888) 772-9050 familyservices@autismspeaks.org www.autismspeaks.org
Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital Autism Center
5154 Bayou Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32504 At the Sacred Heart Autism Center, we offer a range of direct services for children on the autism spectrum, all with a family-centered approach to learning. Our services include: Direct, individualized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. ABA is a research-based, systematic method for improving socially significant skills and behaviors; Parent instruction and hands-on training; Social skills groups for various ages; Group training for families and professionals. (850) 416-4933 Katie.price@ascension.org www.sacred-heart.org/childrenshospital/autismcenter
TACA (Talk About Curing Autism)
Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) is a national nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to educating, empowering and supporting families affected by autism. For families who have just received the autism diagnosis, TACA aims to speed up the cycle time from the autism diagnosis to effective treatments. TACA helps to strengthen the autism community by connecting families and the professionals who can help them, allowing them to share stories and information to help improve the quality of life for people with autism. (855) 726-7810 or (949) 640-4401
www.tacanow.org
CdLS CdLS Foundation (Cornelia de Lange Syndrome)
The Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) Foundation is a family support organization that exists to ensure early and accurate diagnosis of CdLS, promote research into the causes and manifestations of the syndrome, and help people with a diagnosis of CdLS make informed decisions throughout their lives. (800) 753-2357 or (860) 676-8166 info@cdlsusa.org www.cdlsusa.org
Cerebral Palsy Camp Smile
3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile, AL 36607 Camp SMILE provides a residential summer camp for individuals with disabilities from 5 - 50 years old and their siblings. We offer a unique one-to-one camperto-counselor ratio which helps campers adjust to life outside their normal routine and build relationships between campers and counselors. With specialized equipment, Camp SMILE offers swimming, boating, fishing, arts & crafts, horseback riding, zip-lines, archery and much more. Campers enjoy the freedom of the outdoors; families receive a much needed period of respite; and volunteers enjoy an unforgettable experience! There is truly no limit to the adventure! (251) 479-4900 campsmile@ucpmobile.org www.campsmilemobile.org
Cerebral Palsy.org
Our Mission: to provide you with the most comprehensive, FREE resources and compassionate voice for all things related to caring for a child with Cerebral Palsy.
We strive to be your ultimate resource for everything Cerebral Palsy. Our website and call center provides parents and caregivers non-legal help, information, guidance and extra resources. Visit us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/cerebralpalsyorg for community updates. (800) 692-4453 contactus@mychildwithcp.com www.cerebralpalsy.org
United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile
3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile, AL 36607 UCP of Mobile is dedicated to advancing the independence of people with disabilities. UCP offers a wide range of services for people of all ages, starting with one of our early intervention programs and continuing through adulthood with our supported employment program. (251) 479-4900
www.ucpmobile.org
Counseling Center for Calm Living Dr. David Kantra and Augusta Kantra, MS, LPC
150 South Church Street, Fairhope, AL 36532 We provide testing services , psychotherapy, relationship, individual and family therapy as well as mindfully based workshops, events, and classes. We also offer a Yoga Alliance-certified yoga teacher training school, with 200hr Vinyasa yoga teacher training classes. (251) 928-5363 drkantra@gmail.com www.centerforcalmliving.com
Coastal Counseling Associates-Dr. Sharon Ann Friday, PHD, LPC 307 South McKenzie St (suite 111), Foley, AL 36535 Helping families stay together and deal with special needs issues. Specializing in trauma. Please call our office to schedule appointment. (251) 955-1232
N O W O PE N F OLEY , AL VisitOWA.com 251-923-2111
A WORLD CLASS DEVELOPMENT BY
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Crossway Counseling Center, Inc.
27625 U.S. Hwy 98 Building A, Daphne, AL 36526 CrossWay Counseling is a full Service Counseling Center assisting children and their families with the challenges presented by special needs. Our professionally trained counselors apply their knowledge of psychology and Biblical principles to serve individuals, couples, and families. The staff is trained to deal with a wide range of issues. Like us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/CrosswayCounselingCenter/. (251) 626-7959 crosswaycounseling@att.net www.crosswaycounseling.org
Focal Point Professional Services-Barry Swope, LPC
6642 Park Drive, Suite B, Daphne, AL 36526 We offer ADHD and ADD assessments and related services. Our services also include individual and family counseling, drug treatment and conduct/emotional problems with adolescents. (251) 625-6448 barryswope@mediacombb.net www.focalpointcounseling.com/
Larry D. Faison, Ph.D.
27787 Moniac Cove, Daphne, AL 36526 Specializing in ADHD, bi-polar disorder, behavior problems, and depression. We offer testing, counseling and consultation for children and adults. Evening and Saturday appointments are also available. (251) 605-6927 larryfaison@bellsouth.net
Professional Counseling Associates Eastern Shore Counseling
29000 Highway 98, Suite A102, Daphne, AL 36526 Faith based counseling services including AD/HD screenings, anxiety issues, relationship counseling and depression. (251) 626-5797 info@easternshorecounseling.com www.easternshorecounseling.com
Stephanie Wright Williamson, LLC
7 South Summit Street, Fairhope, AL My passion is helping individuals, families and children support each other in every stage of life. I provide counseling services with Asperger’s Syndrome, ADHD, OCD, teen violence, parenting, family conflict, substance abuse, depression and coping skills. (251) 379-0531 burlsandwoo@gmail.com
The Centre-Linda Colclough MS, LPC
1290 Main Street, Suite B, Daphne, AL 36526 The Centre’s CrossRhodes Art Therapy Program provides counseling for children who are facing life-threatening illnesses. The nurturing therapeutic environment allows them to ask questions and express feelings in a healthy, healing way. Art becomes an added voice for telling their story. It gives them a self-soothing avenue to practice coping strategies they can use in their daily lives. (251) 625-0118 thecentre2008@gmail.com www.thecounselingcentre.com
University of South Alabama Psychology Clinic
307 University Blvd N, UCOM 2000, Mobile, AL As a training clinic for the USA Clinical and Counseling Psychology doctoral training program, USA Psychological Clinic also offers low-cost services for children, adults, and families, including psychological testing, counseling, marital counseling, and stress management. Under the supervision of Licensed Psychologists, graduate students provide a variety of clinical services. Psychology faculty members also see clients for a fee and accept some insurance. Services include Individual Therapy (Adult and Child), Family Therapy, Group Therapy, The JAGSS Group (Junior Autism Group for Social Skills), Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Evaluations and Assessments. (251) 460-7149 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/artsandsci/psychology
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Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Mobile Chapter
200 Office Park Drive, Ste 115, Birmingham, AL 35223 The mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is to cure cystic fibrosis and to provide all people with the disease the opportunity to lead full, productive lives by funding research and drug development, promoting individualized treatment and ensuring access to high-quality, specialized care. (205) 870-8565 alabama@cff.org www.cff.org/alabama/
Down Syndrome Down Syndrome Society of Mobile County
ad on page 24
2827 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36606 Our mission is to provide enrichment through education, networking opportunities, advocacy, and emotional support for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the greater community. (888) 454-0317 or (251) 442-1128 downsyndromealbama@gmail.com www.dssmobile.org
Down Syndrome Alabama
1929 Canyon Road, Vestavia Hills, Al 35216 Down Syndrome Alabama’s mission is to promote awareness, acceptance and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome of all ages. (205) 988-0810 or (251) 442-1128 downsyndromealbama@gmail.com www.downsyndromealabama.org
www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine
Dyslexia Renaissance School ad on page 35
10526 County Road 64, Daphne, AL 36526 Renaissance Center of the Eastern Shore is excited to offer several enrichment opportunities to local families. We create a learning environment that values the student as an individual, and helps each to realize his or her potential. Our curricular opportunities are designed to help students propel past barriers that keep them from fulfilling both academic and life goals. We offer individual and group sessions for reading difficulties, services for dyslexia & dysgraphia, math tutoring, homework helper class, arts/writing tutoring, academic therapy and more. Formerly Learning Lagniappe, LLC. The Renaissance Center of the Eastern Shore is a taxdeductible, nonprofit 501(c)(3).
Educational Resources High Hopes Campus of St. Benedict’s School ad on page 61
12786 South Illinois Street, Elberta, 36530 Our objective is to prepare children affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental delays to independently participate in a traditional classroom. At High Hopes we specialize in Verbal Behavior and Classroom Integration. We practice research based Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) techniques. We offer Individual ABA Therapy and Shadowing in the classroom. We also offer computer monitoring and parent training while your child is in therapy.
(251) -990-0041 admin@esrenaissance.org www.esrenaissance.org
(251) 986-7007 Edcucational Resources www.highhopes4autism.org
Lighthouse Learning Center
Huntington Learning Center
109 Hwy 59 South, Summerdale, Al 36580 Our program uses a multi-sensory approach to teach all subjects including cursive writing. Lighthouse Learning Center offers help for students with dyslexia, after school dyslexia therapy program, math tutoring, screening and evaluations. (251) 747-6464 or (601) 319-9332 mrssusanneavery@ gmail.com www.lighthousereadinglab.com
Read-Write Baldwin County
1048 Stanton Road, Daphne, Al 36526 Read Write offers educational consulting, testing, and one-on-one academic therapy for students with language based learning disabilities such as dyslexia. (251) 625-4020
www.readwritelearningcenter.com
ad on page 63
6880 US Hwy 90 Suite 13, Daphne, AL 36526 Huntington Learning Center helps students of all ages and skill levels build the skills, confidence and motivation to succeed. Whether your student is looking for a better report card, stronger study skills, or a higher score on the ACT or SAT, Huntington offers a tutoring solution for you. The specialized ADHD program provides students with the immediate feedback and guidance they need to focus and grow. The Advanced Study Skills Program is a tailored program designed for students in 8th grade and higher to develop their study skills. (251) 621-1057
www.huntingtonhelps.com/center/daphne
Renaissance School ad on page 35
10526 County Road 64, Daphne, AL 36526 Renaissance Center of the Eastern Shore is excited to offer several enrichment opportunities to local families. We create a learning environment that values the student as an individual, and helps each to realize his or her potential. Our curricular opportunities are designed to help students propel past barriers that keep them from fulfilling both academic and life goals. We offer individual and group sessions for reading difficulties, services for dyslexia & dysgraphia, math tutoring, homework helper class, arts/writing tutoring, academic therapy and more. Formerly Learning Lagniappe, LLC. The Renaissance Center of the Eastern Shore is a taxdeductible, nonprofit 501(c)(3). (251) -990-0041 admin@esrenaissance.org www.esrenaissance.org
Baldwin County Public School System
Bay Minette, AL 36507 The Baldwin County School System offers speech-language evaluations and therapy (if eligible) for children ages 3 and up. This service is available to children by law regardless of if they attend private, public or are homeschooled. Disabilities recognized include Autism, Deaf-Blindness, Developmental Delay, Emotional Disability, Hearing Impairment, Intellectual Disabilities, Multiple Disabilities, Orthopedic Impairment, Specific Learning Disability, Speech or Language Impairment, Traumatic Brain Injury and Visual Impairment. (251) 972-6860
www.bcbe.org
Learn To Become
Our mission is to help students (or other aspiring professionals) understand what it takes to land their perfect career, from picking the right school all the way to climbing the company ladder. We are passionate about
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creating a one-stop, comprehensive resource that can guide individuals through each of the steps they need to take to begin, further, or change their career path. www.learnhowtobecome.org/
Read-Write Baldwin County
1048 Stanton Road, Daphne, AL 36526 Read Write offers educational consulting, testing, and one-on-one academic therapy for students with language based learning disabilities such as dyslexia. (251) 625-4020
www.readwritelearningcenter.com
Sylvan Learning Center of Spanish Fort
27000 Bass Pro Drive, Spanish Fort, AL 36527 Partner with Sylvan to give your child a boost in confidence. Our Tutoring Services include math, reading, writing, study skills, homework help, summer camps, state test prep, SAT/ACT prep, College Prep, SylvanSync, and many other services. (251) 210-1337 teamspanishfort@sylvannow.com www.sylvanlearning.com
The Learning Tree
4979 Lott Road, Eight Mile, AL 36613 The Learning Tree, Inc. is a non-profit organization that provides educational and residential services for children and adolescents, ages 2 ½ -21, with developmental disabilities, including autism. The organization also provides and Individual and professional consultation and training. Programs are located in Mobile, Anniston, Auburn Jacksonville, and Tallahassee. (251) 649-4420
www.learning-tree.org
The Learning Tree –The Little Tree Preschool
1176 Azalea Road, Mobile, AL 36693 The Little Tree Preschool offers high quality preschool education for children ages 2 ½ - 5. Low student-teacher ratios are maintained and teachers are certified. The preschool includes services for children with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. The Little Tree Preschool is an inclusive learning environment that focuses on teaching readiness and prerequisite skills to prepare children for primary school. The curriculum is comprehensive and encourages children to explore and discover answers, and we provide a social setting to promote healthy self-esteem and sensitivity to the needs of others. (251) 649-4220 ext. 1225 or 1226
“They sure are handy when you smile. So keep your teeth around a while!” -Dr. Seuss H. L. Strickland Jr., DDS l Stephen Strickland, DMD, MS
Fairhope: 7489 Parker Road l Fairhope South: 19059 S. Greeno Road l 251.928.9292 Spanish Fort: 9816 Millwood Circle 251.272.3232 Bay MineEe: 1901 Hand Avenue l Foley: 815 North Alston Street
www.learning-tree.org
The Learning Tree-Woody’s Song School
5459 Able Court, Mobile, AL 36693 Woody’s Song School serves children ages 5-21 on the autism spectrum. The private, nonprofit school is a tuition-based, twelve month, day program. The school helps children with autism increase their skills in the areas of language, socialization and cognitive skills while decreasing behaviors that interfere with their learning. (251) 331-8021
www.learning-tree.org
The Think Tank
Mobile & Baldwin County The Think Tank Tutoring provides one-on-one in-home tutoring to general education, learning disabled and homebound students. The Think Tank Tutoring and Educational Services works directly with the student’s teachers ensuring we follow the Individual Education Plan for special needs students. In addition, we follow the student’s current classroom curriculum. The Think Tank Tutoring provides homework help, test preparation, and study skills to students in grades Pre-K through 12 in all subjects. We have qualified educators to work with ADD, ADHD, hearing impaired, MR, Dyslexic, and speech impaired students. (251) 414-4494 thinktankminds@gmail.com www.TheThinkTankTutoring.com
WyzAnt Tutoring
Looking for a tutor that specializes in working with your child’s special needs? Simply visit the website, type in the type of special need (ADD, Autism, Down Syndrome, Asperger’s) and zip code to be connected with tutors in your area. (877) 999-2681
www.wyzant.com
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Epilepsy Epilepsy Foundation
The Epilepsy Foundation is a non profit program with nearly 50 local organizations throughout the US. The Foundation works to prevent, control, and cure epilepsy through community services, public education, federal and local advocacy, and supporting research for new treatments and therapies. (800) 332-1000 ContactUs@efa.org www.epilepsyfoundation.org
Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama
3929 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36609 Our Mission is to educate and support individuals with epilepsy and their families, to increase awareness in the general community and to facilitate prevention and management of epilepsy. Programs include educating and increasing awareness about epilepsy; Summer camp for children with seizures, providing leadership in advocacy for epilepsy issues and collaborating with other community resources in support of the mission of the people with seizure disorders. (251) 341-0170 info@efala.org www.efala.org
Financial Resources
Three risk-based investment options, an FDIC-insured bank savings option and FDIC-insured check writing option with a debit card; Created in partnership with the Alabama State Treasurer’s Office, the State of Nebraska Treasurer’s Office and First National Bank of Omaha. (866) 833-7949
www.EnableAL.com
Family Support
1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Family Support is a nonprofit program that provides assistance to those with disabilities. We help families in south Alabama with emotional support, information, referrals, flexible financial assistance, and special project assistance, through local area volunteer councils. Assistance may include information and referrals, home modifications, food, clothing, therapy, prescription drugs, utilities assistance, childcare, special holiday help, etc. (251) 438-1609 go@famsupport.com www.famsupport.com
Individual & Family Support
1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Providing financial support to families with developmental disabilities and head/spinal cord injuries. We help families in south Alabama help themselves, by offering emotional support, information, referrals, flexible financial assistance, and special project assistance, through local area volunteer councils.
Enable Savings Plan Alabama
(251) 438-1609 go@famsupport.com www.famsupport.com/
Enable Savings Plan Alabama provides tax-free savings accounts for eligible individuals with disabilities. Keep your disability benefits and save for your future. Features include: An individual with an eligible disability can open one account. The owner and beneficiary are the same; Any person can contribute to the account;
Joyful Journey Mom’s Ultimate Guide
ad on page 32
Joyful Journey Mom posted the “Ultimate List of Grants and Resources for Families with Special Needs”. JoyfulJourney4me@gmail.com www.joyfuljourneymom. com/ultimate-list-of-grants-and-resources-for-families-withspecial-needs/
PA Big Sunflower Ad.qxp_Layout 1 5/15/17 4:04 PM Page 1
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
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Medicaid Waiver Program
The Alabama Medicaid Agency administers a comprehensive program of long term care services that offers eligible patients a wide range of care choices as well as increased opportunities to receive services at home or in the community. Long term care services include home health services, hospice care, private duty nursing and targeted case management as well as care in nursing and other long term care facilities. Seven waiver programs provide alternatives to institutional care. (800) 441-7607 webwork@medicaid.alabama.gov www. medicaid.alabama.gov
NORD (National Organization for Rare Disorders )
The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), a 501(c)(3) organization, is a unique federation of voluntary health organizations dedicated to helping people with rare “orphan” diseases and assisting the organizations that serve them. NORD is committed to the identification, treatment, and cure of rare disorders through programs of education, advocacy, research, and service. (800) 999-6673 or (203) 744-0100 orphan@rarediseases.org www.rarediseases.org
The Rileigh & Raylee Angel Ride Foundation
Fairhope, AL 36532 Our foundation provides financial assistance to families of children with unforeseen health problems. Upon careful review of an applicant’s files, awards are distributed on a needs basis. All files are documented with medical diagnosis, physician recommendations, family income, expense records and an estimated cost of transportation, food and lodging. The Foundation genuinely seeks to assist families faced with financial burdens when health complications are not covered by health plans. (251) 243-0561 info@angel-ride.com www.angel-ride.org
www.easternshoreparents.com
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General Resources AltaPointe Health Systems –
Children’s Outpatient Services in Baldwin County ad on page 27
2009 Medical Center Drive, Bay Minette, AL 36507 (251) 450-2211 or (251) 937-2010
201 East Camphor Avenue, Foley, AL 36535 (251) 450-2211 or (888) 335-3044
372 South Greeno Road, Fairhope, AL 36532
(251) 450-2211 or (888) 335-3044 http://altapointe. org/altapointe-services/child-outpatient-services/
Children and teens with mental illnesses need special attention and specialized care in an environment especially designed for them. AltaPointe Children’s Outpatient Services provides treatment for children and teens ages 3-19, and their families, with the ultimate goal of helping them maintain stability in the community. AltaPointe’s therapists use state-of-the-art, evidence-based practices. They specialize in treating trauma, bereavement, child sexual abuse, emotional and behavioral problems or significant school-related issues. Treatment focuses on problem resolution, symptom reduction, stabilization and/or prevention of movement to a higher level of care. Treatment is highly variable and depends upon the individual’s existing symptoms.
BayView Professional Associates ad on page 27
374 South Greeno Road, Fairhope, AL 36532 BayView Professional Associates’ confidential and supportive, solution-focused counseling can
help children and families with problems, such as erratic behavior, aggression towards self or others, difficulty concentrating, unexplained weight loss, even physical symptoms like headaches. Our comprehensive clinical services consist of an interdisciplinary team including a child/adolescent board certified psychiatrist, psychologists, and psychotherapists which provide complete evaluations and testing of learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, and cognitive (thinking) problems in addition to psychotherapy and treatment for children, adolescents and adults. Services may include: individual, group or family counseling; play therapy; crisis intervention; behavior modification; psychiatric services; medication management; substance abuse services; and parent education. BayView accepts most major insurances including PEEHIP and AllKids. (251) 660-2360 or (888) 335-3044 www.bayview-associates.org
Montgomery Children’s Specialty Center ad on page 35
2853 Forbes Drive, Montgomery, AL 36110 We are Montgomery’s preferred, five star rated children’s nursing and rehabilitation facility. We provide services to children with severe developmental disabilities that require ongoing nursing care. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals understands that each family has an individual set of circumstances, needs and preferences. At Montgomery Children’s we are inspired by you to work together creating a plan of care that promotes a nurturing environment of respect, growth and healing. (334) 261-3445
www.montgomerybytutera.com
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4 Paws for Ability
4 Paws for Ability enriches the lives of children with disabilities by training and placing quality, task-trained service dogs. (937) 374-0385 Info@4PawsForAbility.org www.4pawsforability.org
Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities 100 North Union Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Our Mission is to promote and support independence, advocacy, productivity and inclusion for Alabamians with developmental disabilities. ACDD is dedicated to the vision that all Alabamians, regardless of disability, will live, learn, work, and play in inclusive communities. (334) 242-3973 or (800) 232-2158
www.acdd.org
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
602 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 “Unique in the nation, the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services is comprised of state and federal programs that provide a continuum of services from birth through life for Alabamians with disabilities. ADRS has four major programs: 1) Alabama’s Early Intervention System (AEIS) - 1610 Center Street, Suite A, Mobile (251) 439-7890, Toll-free number: (800) 879-8163 or TTY (800) 499-1816. A division of the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, Early Intervention provides support and services for infants and toddlers birth - 36 months of age who have a medical diagnosis that can delay normal development. Early intervention services focus on teaching the parents and other caregiver’s ways to help the child learn and participate in everyday activities; 2) Children’s Rehabilitation Service (CRS) CRS District Office - 1610 Center Street Suite A, Mobile (251) 432-4560, (800) 879-8163. CRS is a statewide organization of skilled professionals providing quality medical, rehabilitative, coordination and support services for children with special health care needs and their families. Every county in Alabama
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is served through a network of 14 community-based offices. This network provides services by physicians, nurses, social workers, physical therapists, speechlanguage pathologists, audiologists, occupational therapists, registered dietitians, secretaries, and administrators. CRS staff members work closely with local school systems to enable children with special health care needs to participate fully in school. 3) Vocational Rehabilitation Service (VRS) 2419 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile (251) 479-8611; (800) 671-6842. Vocational Rehabilitation Service (VRS), the largest division within the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, helps Alabamians with disabilities achieve independence through employment. VRS provides specialized employment and education-related services and training to assist teens and adults with disabilities in becoming employed. In addition, VRS works with middle schools, high schools, junior colleges and universities statewide to assist students with disabilities in receiving appropriate educational opportunities; 4) State of Alabama Independent Living / Homebound Service (SAIL) 2419 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile (251) 479-8611, (888) 388-3245, TTY: (800) 499-1816. SAIL provides specialized in-home education and counseling, attendant care, training and medical services to those with severe disabilities. The SAIL program has seven community-based offices located throughout the state to serve residents in all 67 counties. SAIL ensures the consumer can live as independently as possible at home and in the community through specialized programs.” (334) 293-7500 or (800) 441-7607 www.rehab.alabama.gov
Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program
205 North Conception Street, Mobile, AL 36603 The Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP) is part of the nationwide federally mandated protection and advocacy (P&A) system. ADAP’s mission is to provide quality, legally based advocacy services
to Alabamians with disabilities in order to protect, promote and expand their rights. ADAP’s vision is one of a society where persons with disabilities are valued and exercise self-determination through meaningful choices, and have equality of opportunity. (205) 348-4928 or (800) 826-1675 adap@adap.ua.edu http://adap.ua.edu/
Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind
1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Our Mobile Regional Office serves Baldwin, Mobile, Clarke, Washington, Monroe, Conecuh, and Escambia Counties. Some experts estimate that up to 20% of the skills learned in a lifetime are learned in the first five years. Regional Center staff members can give you guidance so that everyone around your child can be a teacher. (251) 432-7777 jones.michelle@aidb.state.al.us www.aidb.org
Alabama Scottish Rite Learning Center
67 Midtown Park E Suite 200, Mobile, Al 36606 We serve as consultants to teachers of students whom we have evaluated and have dyslexia, languagelearning disabilities, or severe speech or language disabilities. We work with teachers and other members of the IEP team to develop goals and benchmarks necessary to assist students in reaching their academic potential. Our program also provides teachers with in-service training in the areas of identification and remediation of dyslexia, in-service training in the areas of language-learning disabilities and severe speech or language disabilities. (205) 365-1640 or (251) 476–5300 mobilesr@bellsouth.net www.alsrlcenter.org
ARC - Baldwin County
3650 South Magnolia Street, Loxley, AL 36551 ARC-BC, Inc. provides services for intellectual dis-
abilities and/or developmental disabilities. We offer options that can be tailored individually. ARC-BC promotes family unity with community support systems to enhance the quality of life of citizens with intellectual disabilities and/or developmental disabilities in Baldwin County. We offer 3 separate locations in Loxley, Robertsdale and Foley. (251) 964-4451 or (251) 978-9125 www.arcbaldwincounty.org
Canine Companions for Independence
Canine Companions for Independence is a non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships. We train four types of assistance dogs to master over 40 specialized commands: Service Dogs, Skilled Companions, Hearing Dogs and Facility Dogs. (800) 572-2275 or (866) 224-3647
www.cci.org
Community Services for Vision Rehabilitation
29653 Anchor Cross Boulevard, Daphne, AL 36526 Community Services for Vision Rehabilitation is a non-profit organization, dedicated to helping those with low vision and blindness. We have offices in Mobile, Montgomery and the Fairhope/Daphne area. The clinic provides professional evaluation by eye doctors (ODs and MDs), occupational therapists, ophthalmic technicians, computer specialists and others. We work in collaboration with state agencies and regional and national resources. (251) 928-2888 visionrehab@bellsouth.net www.csvrlowvision.org
Dianne Craft – Child Diagnostics
Dianne Craft’s website contains information, articles and resources for all learning disabilities including dyslexia, auditory processing and right/left brain learning and provide nutritional therapy and supplement recom-
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mendations. You can purchase Dianne’s DVDs, CDs, Books, vitamins, and other various products through her online store.
(303) 694-0532 craft@ecentral.com www.diannecraft.org
Easter Seals of Alabama
5960 East Shirley Lane, Montgomery, AL 36117 Our organization consists of several community rehabilitation program sites and the world’s largest barrier free recreational camp, Camp ASCCA. Easter Seals Alabama services include: Medical Rehabilitation, Early Intervention, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Hearing Therapy, Job Training and Employment, Child Care & Camping and Recreation. We provide services for people with disabilities and their families. (334) 395-4489 info@al.easterseals.com www.alabama.easterseals.com
Emerald Coast Pedatric Sleep Consultants
400 Gulf Breeze Pkwy #204, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 850-932-3830
www.emeraldcoastsleep.com
ESpecial Needs
1850 Borman Court, St. Louis, MO 63146 Especial Needs is dedicated to providing our clients with the best selection of adaptive equipment, rehab equipment and therapy solutions for children and adults with special needs. With over 10,000 special needs products focused to mobility, sensory needs and independent living, our experienced staff strives to provide the highest quality service. From the homepage, at the bottom, click on “Funding” to see a list of funding resources. (877) 664-4565 orders@especialneeds.com www.especialneeds.com
Family Tree Chiropractic
8158 Highway 59, Suite 106, Foley, AL Dr. Jen Aliment is a member of EPIC Pediatrics, a chiropractic training program specializing in taking care of pediatric and special needs patients. 251-943-0569
www.familytreefoley.com
Goodwill Easterseals of the Gulf Coast
2448 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 Goodwill Easterseals offers Encouragement, Education and Employment to persons dealing with disabilities, low income, or other needs. Programs for families of youth with and without disabilities include free parenting classes, support groups, Child Development Centers, Early Intervention and preschool readiness in-home instruction, and teen recreational activities. Family outings are offered in a variety of community venues. Education (GED), Job Training and Employment, Medical Assistance, and an Adult Day Program are also available to families when needed. (251) 471-1581
www.gesgc.org/
Guide Dog Foundation
To improve the quality of life for people who are blind, have low vision, or have other special needs. (800) 548-4337 or (631) 930-9000 info@guidedog.org www.guidedog.org
March of Dimes Mobile Alabama Chapter
205 Lambert Street, Suite A, Mobile, AL The March of Dimes Alabama Chapter has a passion to help babies in our community start life in the healthiest way possible. Through education and intervention, we help moms-to-be learn how to take care of themselves before, during and after pregnancy. The Alabama Chapter partners with local medical groups and organizations to establish guidelines for how to care for pregnant women and premature babies. We provide grants to researchers working to understand birth defects and premature birth and to find treatments and solutions. (251) 438-1360
www.marchofdimes.com/alabama
Mobile Association for the Blind
2440 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 The Mobile Association for the Blind is now a 45,000 square foot manufacturing facility where many visually impaired individuals who are not able to join the public workforce and employed in our Sheltered Workshop. We also provide assistance to citizens with other types of vocational disabilities. Counseling, evaluation, skills training, independent living classes, and job placement are services we may be involved in to help individuals develop the skills and self esteem to become successful and independent within the industrial workforce. (251) 473-3585
www.mobileblind.org/home.html
Mulherin Custodial Home
2496 Halls Mill Road, Mobile, AL 36606 Mulherin Home provides a home for individuals, children and adults with developmental disabilities. Our foremost concern is the happiness, comfort, and welfare of the residents at Mulherin Home. Mulherin
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Home is a 501(C)3 program. Mulherin Home can house 34 individuals at a time as full time residents. We provide nutritious meals, routine medical care, transportation to and from medical appointments, day programs, job commitments, activities, etc. Because many of our residents have grown up in the Home, we are one big happy family and operate as such! (251) 471-1998
www.mulherinhome.com
National Alliance on Mental Illness
Mobile, AL NAMI Alabama is an organization comprised of local support and advocacy groups throughout the state dedicated to improving the quality of life for persons with a mental illness in Alabama. The mission statement/purpose of NAMI Alabama is to provide support, education, and advocacy for persons with mental illnesses, their families, and others whose lives are affected by these brain disorders. (251) 461-3450 or (334) 396-4797
www.namimobile.org
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Operation Autism for Military Families
hour at home, hospital, or hospice.
Pediatric Developmental Medicine
Sesame Street Autism
www.operationautismonline.org
1601 Center Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Common disorders seen in this clinic include autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, developmental delays and school/learning problems. The developmental/behavioral pediatricians in our division work with a speech therapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist and psychologists to diagnose developmental conditions. The conditions we treat include autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, learning problems, developmental consequences of premature birth and prenatal exposures to substances or infections. (251) 410-5437 www.usahealthsystem.com/pediatricdevelopmental-medicine
Project Lifesaver
(251) 972-6845 or (877)
www.projectlifesaver.org
S. W. Regional School for the Deaf and Blind
3980 Burma Road, Mobile, AL 36693 The mission of the Southwest Alabama Regional School for the Deaf and Blind is to create a positive, supportive educational environment that provides opportunities for sensory impaired students to reach individual potential in the areas of academics, independence, responsibility and social competence. (251) 221-5454
http://regional.mcs.schoolinsites.com
Santa America
308 Belrose Avenue, Daphne, AL Santa America is a national volunteer service organization with a very special mission. Over one hundred Santa’s across America visit children and families in crisis. Santa Claus visits when a child or family needs him—twelve months a year—bringing love, hope and joy to special needs children in a loving visit of about an
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
santaernest@santa-america.org www.santaamerica.org www.autism.sesamestreet.org
SiblingSupport.org Spanish Fort
www.siblingsupport.org/sibshops/spanish-fort-sibshop
Sight Savers America
337 Business Circle, Pelham, AL 35124 Sight Savers America is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) that assists children with obtaining eye exams, glasses, and other needed eye care from local eye care providers and clinics. Children are referred to Sight Savers via failed vision screenings at school, referrals from teachers, school administrators, school nurses, eye-care professionals and parents. Children of families who qualify for our program receive the eye care they need at no cost to the family. (877) 942-2627 info@sightsaversamerica.org www.sightsaversamerica.org
Special Needs Foundation of America
8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 Special Needs Foundation of America (SNFA), is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, empowering and supporting families with children that have special needs such as Autism, Aspergers, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, etc. It provides grants and subsidies for treatments such as Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, ABA therapy, counseling, etc., and many things not covered by insurance. SNFA has a board of devoted clinicians, parents and individuals who work diligently and seek grant opportunities for these families in need. (251) 210-1632
specialneedsfoundationofamerica.org
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The Listening Program
The Listening Program (TLP) is a music listening therapy that provides engaging brain stimulation to improve performance in school, work and life. It gently trains the auditory system to accurately process sound. Auditory processing problems can lead to academic, emotional, cognitive and social challenges, including problems with ADD, Listening, Speech & language, memory, communication, Social skills, reading, Sensory Integration, Balance and coordination and self-regulation. Auditory processing problems are often found in children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD, dyslexia and learning disabilities. (888) 228-1798 or (801) 622-5676 info@advancedbrain.com www.advancedbrain.com
Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive Clothing
Tommy Hilfiger proudly partnered with Runway of Dreams™ to create a very special collection addressing the challenges the differently-abled community faces each day when getting dressed. Faux buttons and cuff plackets conceal a patented MagnaReady® magnet closure for ease of dressing. info@runwayofdreams.com www.tommy.com
Muscular Dystrophy Alabama Muscular Dystrophy Association
700 Century Park S (#225), Birmingham, AL 35226 MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to finding treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. (205) 823-8191 or (800) 572-1717 birmingham@mdausa. org www.mda.org/office/birmingham
www.easternshoreparents.com
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Organizations for Parents (APEC) Alabama Parent Education Center
10520 US Highway 231, Wetumpka, AL 36092 We believe that parents have the greatest impact on their children’s lives. APEC provides families with the training, information and support they need to help them ensure that their children become productive, well-educated citizens. (866) 532-7660 or (334) 567-9938 apec@alabamaparentcenter.com www.alabamaparentcenter.com
Family Voices of Alabama
1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Family Voices of Alabama (FV of AL) aims to achieve family-centered care for all children and youth with special health care needs and/or disabilities. Through our national network, we provide families tools to make informed decisions, advocate for improved public and private policies, build partnerships among professionals and families, and serve as a trusted resource on health care. (877) 771-3862 info@familyvoicesal.org www.familyvoicesal.org
Parent to Parent USA
Parent-to-Parent USA (P2P USA) is a national nonprofit organization committed to promoting parent support across the country. (855) 238-8979 or (717) 503-8992 memberinfo@p2pusa.org www.p2pusa.org
Pediatric Dentistry *Pediatric dentists receive two or more years of specialized training beyond dental school that includes education in treatment and care of children with special needs.
Bay Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry 115 Lottie Lane, Fairhope, AL 36532 www.baypedo.com/
Daphne Pediatric Dentistry ad on page 13
7058 Professional Place, Daphne, AL 36526 (251) 447-0627
www.daphnepediatricdentistry.com/
Dr. Trey’s Childrens Dentistry ad on page 70
www.drtreys.com
BlueBird Pediatric Therapy, Inc.
Malbis Parkway Pediatric Dentistry
ad on page 22
ad on page 69
9807 McSara Court, Spanish Fort, AL 36527 (251) 626-9924
www.malbispediatricdentistry.com/
Sea Smiles Pediatric Dentistry ad on page 37
825 North Alston Street, Foley, AL 36535 (251) 943-7575
www.seasmilesfoley.com
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8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 American Autism & Rehabilitation Center (AARC) is a facility aimed at treating a variety of special needs in one convenient location. Our services are for children and adults and include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, ABA therapy, psychological/ diagnostic services, educational services, pharmaceutical services and more. Our highly-trained professionals work collaboratively to provide treatment plans as unique as the individual in order to help patients reach their full potential. We offer a family-centered approach and seek to provide hope and help to each patient and family. (251) 210-1632 info@americanautismcenter.com www.Americanautismcenter.com
303 North Section Street, Faihope, AL 36532 (251) 928-3030
American Autism and Rehabilitation Center
ad on page 39
ad on page 67 (251) 928-5045
Physical & Speech Therapy
6157 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 At Bluebird Therapy, we offer occupational therapy, speech therapy, feeding therapy, music therapy, social skills groups, summer camps and adapted kid’s yoga. Each session addresses the individual child’s needs through play that is grounded in child development while also teaching the parents what to do at home. Some of the special techniques that we use include, Integrative Listening Systems, Sensory Integration Techniques, Handwriting Without Tears, DIR/Floor time
www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine
Concepts, Neurodevelopmental Treatment Techniques, Brain Gym, Kinesiotaping, Augmentative Communication, Kaufman Approach to Apraxia, Talk Tools Training, SOS Feeding Therapy Approach, Beckman Oral Motor Approach, and the Melanie Potock-It’s not just about Swallowing Approach. We currently have openings available for new client evaluations and are in-network providers for a variety of insurance companies. Come see our new location equipped with a sensory gym! (251) 287-0378 bluebirdtherapy@gmail.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com
Kids KountTherapy Services, LLC ad on page 45
26420 Kensington Place, (Suite C), Daphne, AL 36526 Our therapy techniques skillfully weave sensory experiences and practical application into activities of daily living. Children learn to work through challenges in a caring, supportive environment. We strive to instill compassion and confidence in each child and give them encouragement to become their own unique self. We provide speech, occupational and physical therapy as well as audiology and educational services for children from birth to 21 years. (251) 517-0355 kidskount@yahoo.com www.kidskounttherapy.com
Kids KountTherapy Services, LLC ad on page 45
3512 Godwin Court, Mobile, AL 36693 Through our therapy techniques, children learn to work through challenges in a caring, supportive environment; and we all celebrate their accomplishments. We strive to instill compassion and confidence in each child and
we give each child encouragement to become their own unique self. We provide speech, occupational and physical therapy as well as audiology and educational services for children from birth to 21 years. (251) 5170355 kidskount@yahoo.com www.kidskounttherapy.com
North Baldwin Infirmary ad on page 55 and 74
1815 Hand Avenue, Bay Minette, AL 36507 Infirmary Health’s Pediatric Rehabilitation Department provides comprehensive care to children who require occupational, physical and speech therapy. We offer an environment where all three therapies can work together with families to guarantee each child is receiving exactly what he or she needs. Therapy gyms and offices have viewing windows and headphone systems for parents to observe their child’s therapy sessions, full-spectrum lighting to enhance learning needs of patients and wireless laptop computers to further diminish distractions. We also strive to find the correct balance of challenge and play so that children can work toward their treatment goals while having fun. (251) 937-5521
www.infirmatryhealth.org
Pediatric Physical Therapy of Mobile ad on page 49
881 Hillcrest Road, Mobile, AL 36695 At Pediatric Physical Therapy, treatment is individualized to maximize functional outcomes. We have child-friendly, play-based treatment programs. Pediatric Physical Therapy strives to utilize state of the art technology and evidence based practice during treatment. The clinic practices according to the guidelines and ethics of the American Physical Therapy Association.
Cheryl L. Thames, PT, DPT, and owner of Pediatric Physical Therapy, LLC has been named a board-certified clinical specialist in pediatric physical therapy by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. (251) 450-0070 ppt_llc@hotmail.com www.pptmobile.com
South Baldwin Regional Medical Center ad on page 4 and 7
1613 North McKenzie Street, Foley, AL 36535 South Baldwin Regional Medical Center’s Outpatient Therapy Center offers a variety of services, including Physical Therapy, (251) 949-3580; Occupational Therapy (251) 949-3846; and Speech Therapy (251) 949-3845. In most cases, the same therapist provides a patient’s care for the duration of treatment. This provides for continuity of care for the patient and improved communication with the referring physician. (251) 949-3400
www.southbaldwinrmc.com
Therapy Services at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital ad on Inside Front Cover
1610 Center Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Therapy Services at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital offers a team-oriented program of pediatric physical, occupational and speech-language therapies. Services are provided on both an inpatient and outpatient basis. We offer pediatric-specific care for infants and children with varied diagnoses. Services include assessment and treatment of: Developmental Delays, Orthopedic Injuries, Neuromuscular Problems—Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, etc., Burns and Wounds, Speech and Language Deficits, Feeding Problems, Sensory
Olive Oils | Balsamic Vinegars | Unique GiŌs
A unique social & sensory shopping experience!
314-B De La Mare Avenue | Fairhope, AL 36532 | p: 251.929.0711 | f: 251.929.0710 info@happyolive4.com | www.happyolive4.com | The Happy Olive 25741 Perdido Beach Blv’d., Suite I | Orange Beach, AL 36561 | p: 251.981.1557 Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
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Problems, Attention Problems & Loss of Function Due to Chronic Illness. (251) 415-1670
www.usahealthsystem.com
Thomas Hospital Pediatric Rehabilitation ad on page 55 and 74
212 Hospital Drive, Suite B, Fairhope, AL 36532 Thomas Hospital’s Pediatric Rehabilitation Department provides comprehensive care to children who require occupational, physical, and speech therapy. Located in the Wellness Center at Thomas Hospital, we offer an environment where all 3 therapies can work together with families to guarantee each child is receiving exactly what he or she needs. Our facility enables us to meet the unique needs of our patients from birth through adolescence and allows parents to be an integral part of their child’s therapy. Therapy gyms and offices have viewing windows and headphone systems for parents to observe their child’s therapy sessions, full spectrum lighting to enhance learning needs of patients, and wireless laptop computers to further diminish distractions. Some of the specialized treatment modalities provided at Thomas Hospital include: Vital-Stem neuro-muscular electrical stimulation for Dysphagia, Augmentative/Alternative communication training and support, Ipad applications, Integrated Listening System training (ILs), Interactive Metronome, TheraSuit, Lite Gait, Braces, AFOs, splinting, and a comprehensive team for feeding/swallowing therapy. Visit us on Facebook at Infirmary Health Pediatric Therapy. (251) 279-1640 rich.rammel@infirmaryhealth.org www.infirmatryhealth.org
American Hyperbaric Center
8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 American Hyperbaric Center, in Daphne, is a state-of-
the-art hyperbaric oxygen therapy facility and is home to the largest hyperbaric oxygen chamber in the region. .“Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can reduce inflammation, promote healing, repair cells and heal wounds,” says Medical Director Dr. Tyler Sexton, Vice President of the American College of Hyperbaric Medicine. Conditions treated include Autism, Multiple Sclerosis, Lyme, TBI/ PTS, Stroke, RSD/CRPS, Fibromyalgia, Diabetic Foot Wounds, Radiation Injury, Failed Grafts/Flaps, Concussion and other Sports Injuries, Migraine Headaches, Cancer, Crohn’s/Colitis, Cerebral Palsy, Neuropathy, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Chronic Fatigue and much more. (251) 210-1496
www.AmericanHBOT.com
Buckaroo Barn
39821 Duffee Lane, Bay Minette, AL 36507 Buckaroo Barn, LLC provides physical therapy specializing in hippotherapy as a treatment tool for children with disabilities. Hippotherapy is a therapy tool which uses the movement of the horse to influence the patient’s posture, balance, stability & sensory processing. The therapist can direct the movement of the horse, analyze the patient’s response and adjust the treatment accordingly. (251) 604-3904 buckaroobarn@gmail.com www.buckaroobarnllc.com
Equine Education Consultants (Willow Creek Farms)
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(251) 259-5553 or (877) 4AUTISM, Foley, AL 36536 Gulf Coast Therapy is a state-of-the-art outpatient therapy center serving Mobile and Baldwin County. We are committed to offering our patients a center of excellence for the treatment of pain and/or disability. Services include: early intervention, outpatient pediatrics and school-based therapy. (251) 923-0888 info@gulfcoasttherapy.com www.gulfcoasttherapy.com
Gulf Coast Therapy
9890 Twin Beech Road, Fairhope, AL 35532 Gulf Coast Therapy is a state-of-the-art outpatient therapy center serving Mobile and Baldwin County. We are committed to offering our patients a center of excellence for the treatment of pain and/or disability. Services include: early intervention, outpatient pediatrics and school-based therapy. (251) 928-7312 info@gulfcoasttherapy.com www.gulfcoasttherapy.com
Jubilee Pediatric Speech Services, LLC
9086 Merritt Lane (Suite D), Daphne, AL 36526 Providing quality speech and language therapy to children while partnering with parents to promote communication development. Like us on Facebook!
19822A Lawrence Road, Fairhope, AL 36532 Equine Educational Consultants, Inc. was created to provide an opportunity for those with special needs to experience the joy and motivation that horses provide just by allowing us to share their world. We provide equine therapy for children affected by autism spectrum disorders, language impairments and ADHD. Therapy is provided by Speech Language Pathologists with over 20 years experience each. (251) 747-8219 Tonyalhalterman@gmail.com www.eec.name
Gulf Coast Therapy
(251) 340-2166 loriforan@jubileespeech.com www.jubileespeech.com
Melanie Waters -Spoken Word Speech Language Services LLC
29000 Highway 98, Suite 102C, Daphne, AL 36526 At Spoken Word Speech Language Services, evaluation and treatment is available for the following areas: speech sound problems (including childhood apraxia of speech), tongue thrust, poor listening skills, auditory processing disorder, reading difficulties such as dyslexia, social pragmatic deficits, stuttering, late talkers,
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and communication problems. Fast ForWord products and monitoring are also available. (251) 786-8255 mel.spokenword@gmail.com www.spokenwordspeech.com
USA Speech and Hearing Clinic
1119 HAHN, 5721 USA Drive North, Mobile, AL 36608 The clinic serves two primary purposes: to provide services in speech, language and hearing to citizens of Mobile and surrounding areas and to provide the supervised clinical experiences needed by the students for graduation and to obtain professional licensure/ certification. Because the USA Speech and Hearing Clinic functions as a service facility and teaching facility, activities and procedures address both purposes. Diagnostic and treatment services in speech, language and hearing are provided to persons of all ages and with all types of speech-language and hearing disorders. (251) 445-9378 speechandhearing@southalabama.edu www.southalabama.edu/alliedhealth/speechandhearing/ clinic.html
Recreation & Social Alligator Alley ad on page 12
19500 County Road 71, Summerdale, AL 36580 Alligator Alley is ADA compliant. With over 20 acres of natural cypress swampland, our alligators roam freely in a protected environment. The whole family can safely observe alligators feeding, courting, and nesting from our elevated boardwalk. You’ll also observe other wild life such as: Ospreys, Owls, Turtles, Bull Frogs, and various field animals. In our gift shop area, we also display other amphibians, reptiles, and rare species. Call for more information or to schedule a tour! (251) 946-2483 info@gatoralleyfarm.com www.gatoralleyfarm.com
Bay City Gymnastics
ad on page 91
8534 Well Road, Daphne, AL 36526 Now offering Special Needs field trips! Gymnastics is great for overall body conditioning. It develops strength, flexibility, kinesthetic awareness, muscular control, endurance, coordination, agility, speed, balance, courage, grace, posture and poise while having so much fun! (251) 621-2112 bcgagym@att.net www.bcgagymnastics.com
Bluebird Therapy Kids Yoga Class ad on page 22
6157 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 Bluebird Therapy offers yoga for children with and without special needs. Each class will incorporate poses, breathing techniques and purposeful postures to strengthen the body, calm the nervous system, and teach a fun way to exercise. Each class series will be designed to meet the needs of those who are signed up for the class and all poses can be adapted to meet the needs of each child. Registration is required for classes which will run 1 day per week for 4-6 weeks. (251) 287-0378 bluebirdtherapy@gmail.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com
Bluebird Therapy Music Class ad on page 22
6157 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 We currently provide group and individual music therapy sessions that help to incorporate movement, language, following directions, creativity, and socialization through playing instruments, singing songs and
dancing. We also offer adapted keyboarding lessons taught by the music therapist as well.
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5278 Camp Ascca Drive, Jackson Gap, AL 36861 Camp ASCCA is Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults. ASCCA is a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation for children and adults with both physical and intellectual disabilities. Providing weekend and weeklong sessions, Camp ASCCA is open yearround. Located in Alabama on Lake Martin, Camp ASCCA offers campers a wide variety of recreational and educational activities. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, accessible waterslide, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a splash pad, outdoor adventure elements like the zipline, and much more.
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(251) 287-0378 bluebirdtherapy@gmail.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com
ad on page 49
(256) 825-9226 or (800) THE-CAMP www.campascca.org
Dance Without Limits ad on page 81
Creative Outlet Dance, Fairhope, AL 36532 Offering dance classes exclusively to the special needs community! Preschool through adult. Classes are led by Kerrie Benson, a dance teacher for over 20 years and mom to a special needs child herself and occupational therapists. Visit our website for class schedule and fees. A few scholarships available provided by our generous donors. Most classes will be assisted meaning each dancer will have a volunteer helper to work with them through class. These volunteers are dancers, Camp Smile counselors, special ed teachers
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and speech and OT students at South. All dancers will perform at a recital! (251) 610-4969 dancewithoutlimits@aol.com www.dancewithoutlimitsfoundation.org
Susan’s Academy of Dance ad on page 57
7966 American Way, Daphne, AL 36526 Special needs dance classes. Beyond Boundaries Dance - A fun way to express emotions, increase fitness, and spark creativity while helping reach physical, social, and cognitive goals. (251) 626-3835
www.susansacademyofdance.com
The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast ad on page 38
28788 North Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526 The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the social & recreational aspects of adults and children with special needs in the Baldwin/Mobile area. We offer art, cooking, dance, sign language, yoga, Special Olympics, community field trips & so much more. EFGC is open Monday - Thursday from 7:50am - 6pm. For more information contact Jennifer Flad, Executive Director at Jennifer.Flad@exceptionalfoundationgc.org. (251) 625-8955 efgulfcoast@gmail.com www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org
Thomas Hospital Rehabilitation Playground ad on page 55 and 74
750 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope, AL 36532 Climbing on a rock wall or playing on a see-saw can be a lot of fun for children but for the pediatric rehab patients at Thomas Hospital, those exercises also offer a fun alternative to traditional Occupational and Physical Therapy. The department’s playground offers a safe way to help special needs children with strength, coordination and balance. The playground, funded by the Thomas Hospital Foundation, includes a rock wall, balance beam, monkey bars, overhead glider, chin bar, see saw, disc swing and a therapeutic seat swing all on a state-of-the-art cushioned flooring system. (251) 279-1640 rich.rammel@infirmaryhealth.org www.infirmaryhealth.org
3Circle Church Special Needs Ministry SOAR
10274 Hwy 104, Fairhope, AL 36532 We are pleased to offer a special needs ministry at our South campus. Our goal is to provide a safe, nurturing, Gospel-centered program for families affected by disability. The staff and volunteers that make up the SOAR ministry are trained individuals who are passionate about caring for individuals with disabilities. SOAR classes meet during 3 Circle Church’s 9:45 service on Sundays. (251) 990-3112 info@3CircleChurch.com www.3circlechurch.com/soar
Access To Recreation
8 Sandra Court, Newbury Park, CA 91320 Provides exercise and recreational equipment for people with disabilities. Online equipment items such wheelchair accessories, daily living, replacement parts, bath and shower accessories, Lifts, safety equipment, ramps, manual and power chairs, etc. (800) 634-4351 customerservice@accesstr.com www.accesstr.com
AMBUCS
A charitable service organization dedicated to creating mobility and independence for people with disabilities by providing AmTryke therapeutic tricycles to children with disabilities. (800) 838-1845 ambucs@ambucs.org www.ambucs.org
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Back Country Trail
3801 Orange Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561 We are ADA compliant. Explore the beauty and diversity of the Back Country Trail! Six trails among six distinct ecosystems make up more than 11 miles of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail complex through Orange Beach and the Gulf State Park. Explore the Butterfly Garden, the mystical Freshwater Marshes, Coastal Hardwood Swamps and lots of wildlife. (251) 981-1180 trail@cityoforangebeach.com www.backcountrytrail.com
Baldwin County Special Olympics
Bay Minette, AL 36507 For more information please call the office or email Dawn Frenette. (251) 937-0306 or (251) 972-6854 org www.bcbe.org
dfrenette@bcbe.
Boy Scouts of South Alabama
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. The BSA provides a program for young people that builds character, trains them in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and develops personal fitness. (251) 476-4600 rebecca.samarripa@scouting.org www.bsamac.org
Camp Bridges
1600 7th Ave S, (ACC 516), Birmingham, AL 35233 Camp Bridges provides camps & educational programs at no cost for children, young adults, families in Alabama and neighboring states living with an organ transplant. info@campbridges.org www.campbridges.org
Camp Mash
PO Box 850548, Mobile, AL 36685 Camp M.A.S.H. is a weeklong recreational program for children ages 7 to 17 with a form of juvenile arthritis or a related autoimmune disease. Camp M.A.S.H. is offered at no cost to our families. We have activities such as fishing, swimming and the ropes course, as well as horses, archery, and arts & crafts. All activities and accommodations are fully accessible, and a medical staff team on site around the clock. Camp MASH is open to children living in Alabama, Mississippi, the Florida Panhandle, and on a case-by-case basis other kids from surrounding areas as we have space.
levels and medication, making healthy food choices, and being physically active. Physicians, nurses, diabetes educators, nutritionists, and pharmacists provide safe supervision along with trained adult volunteer counselors with diabetes. Programs and camps are at locations throughout Alabama. (205) 402-0415 info@campsealeharris.org www.campsealeharris.org
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Southern Diabetes Education Services camps and local community programs provide diabetes education, encouragement, and friendships for children with diabetes and their families. Camp is a place where having diabetes is the norm and a place where you can compare and share stories with peers who understand. Children learn independence in managing blood sugar
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1600 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 Camp Smile-A-Mile’s mission is to provide year round challenging, unforgettable recreational and educational experiences for young cancer patients, their families as well as young adult survivors from Alabama at no
2 Different Escape Rooms A hurricane is coming your way. To open the shelter you and your team need to find all the clues and puzzles, and you need to find out details about the hurricane. If you succeed, you will be safe at last.
DON'T FORGET TO MAKE YOUR RESERVATION ONLINE EscapeHouseWaterville.com 906 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores • 251-948-2106 • Watervilleusa.coM Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
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The Gulf Coast’s premier Water Park and Amusement Park
If you want to experience some REAL MAGIC, gather your team and start exploring the live escape room of the Great Mysto, one of the greatest magicians ever to live.
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cost to the families. Our purpose is to provide these patients, families and survivors with avenues for fellowship, to help them cope with their disease, and to prepare them for life after cancer.
(205) 323-8427 or (888) 500-7920 info@campsam.org www.campsam.org
Camp-Rap-A-Hope
2701 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36606 Camp Rap-A-Hope is an organization that provides a week-long summer camp at Camp Grace in Mobile, Alabama and is open to children between the ages of 7 and 17 who have or have ever had cancer. The camp is offered at no cost to the campers and their families. Each summer camp environment includes swimming, kayaking, horseback riding, arts & crafts and much more! Camp Rap-A-Hope offers additional opportunities throughout the year such as Family fun days and Holiday parties for Campers and families. (251) 476-9880 info@camprapahope.org www.camprapahope.org
Captains for Kids
Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Florida Fun activities on the water for kids with special needs and illness. We offer fishing charters, dolphin cruises, pirate cruises, sailing charters, parasailing, banana boat rides, airboat rides and more. (850) 438-5555 or (850) 377-6422 spotate@aol.com www.captainsforkids.com
Children’s Harbor Family Center & Camp
1600 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 Children’s Harbor provides children with serious illnesses and their families a place to be themselves – to have fun and relax – while also receiving no-cost services that make life a bit easier for the whole family. (205) 638-6123 information@childrensharbor.com www.childrensharbor.com
Disabled Sports USA
Disabled Sports USA’s mission is to provide national opportunities for individuals with disabilities to develop independence, confidence, and fitness through community sports, recreation and educational programs. Disabilities include those with visual impairments, amputations, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, head injury, cerebral palsy, other neuromuscular/orthopedic conditions, autism and related intellectual disabilities. (301) 217-0960 info@dsusa.org www.disabledsportsusa.org
10274 Hwy 104, Fairhope, AL 36532 Empowered Parents is a support group for parents who have children with special needs. Empowered Parents is a time for parents to grow and fellowship together, focusing on the unique challenges that special needs may present. Meetings are the first Thursday of every month at 6:30 pm. This event is open to the community, and childcare is provided. (251) 990-3112 info@3CircleChurch.com www.3circlechurch.com/soar
Exceptional Arts Drama by Sunnyside Theater
63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606 Sunnyside Theater proudly presents Exceptional Arts Drama. Drama and Theater classes for adults and children with special needs ages 8 – 80! Exceptional Arts Drama provides fun and creative theater opportunities for children and adults with special needs. We adapt roles to give each cast member the chance to showcase their unique talents on stage. Our actors learn how to put on a play, memorize scripts, perform choreography, and role play during dress up! Tuesday nights 6:00pm-8:00pm. $50/month. At end of semester we will present a full length play.
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3483 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608 Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama serves more than 7,000 girls, ages 5-17 and 3,000 adults who believe in the power of every G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader) to change the world. We’re the preeminent leadership development organization for girls for more than 100 years. With programming across 30 counties, GSSA offers every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of leadership, adventure, and success. (800) 239-6636 Communications@girlscoutssa.org www.girlscoutssa.org
Empowered Parents Support Group
(251) 510-1808 azaleacity@mindspring.com www.azaleacityarts.com
Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama
Hope Outdoors
Hope Outdoors has a passion to spread the love of God and provide the fun of the great outdoors to those who have special needs. We provide opportunities for fishing, deer hunts, bird and turkey hunts, and other ways to get close to nature and enrich lives no matter the challenges life may have given you. All events are free to participants and their families. Hope Outdoors provides all meals, lodging and licenses. Participants are only responsible for travel to and from the event. Our Alabama event will be held January 19 & 20, 2018. Applications can be filled out online by typing in http:// hopeoutdoors.org/applynow. Visit us on Facebook for photos and event updates. (251) 769-7974 or (251) 769-5642 opie.thomas@hopeoutdoors.org www.hopeoutdoors.org
Lakeshore Foundation
4000 Ridgeway Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209 Lakeshore is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization. We help promote positive, long-term physical and emotional effects of physical fitness on people with disabilities. From infants to seniors, to injured soldiers and elitelevel athletes, every participant is free to discover his or her own potential. Our mission is to enable people with a physical disability and chronic health conditions to
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lead healthy, active and independent lifestyles through physical activity, sports, recreation and research.
(205) 313-7400 info@lakeshore.org www.lakeshore.org
SNAP (Special Needs Athletes Programs)
Skyline Lanes, Mobile, AL 36605 Special Needs Athletes Programs –Our mission is to give developmentally disabled citizens in the greater Mobile, Baldwin County Alabama area, the opportunity to participate in a recreational sport with others of the same skill level and to have fun doing it. We work to partner our special athletes with mentors to help them learn the game of bowling, to develop their skills and to be a positive role model. (251) 285-0224 joe@snapofalabama.com www.snapofalabama.com
Special Olympics of Alabama
880 South Court Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 The mission of Special Olympics is to provide yearround sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community. (334) 242-3383 or (800) 239-3898 soaloffice@aol.com
Starfish-Special Olympics Swim Team
Sharon Brindle, coach, Special Olympics Swim Team offers free swimming instruction to all individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities. (251) 978-0295
www.gulfshoresstarfish.webs.com
Water Planet Dolphin Therapy
203 Greenwood Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32407 We offer 2 therapy options to interact with the dolphins. The Harmony Program can help a wide variety of
children: most spectra of autism, manic depression, Rett Syndrome, Tourette’s Syndrome, ADHD, Down, and hyperactivity. Our Serenity Program caters to children with serious developmental delays, physical and motor disabilities like Cerebral Palsy, Head and Spinal Cord Injury, Mitochondrial Disorder. Spina Bifida, Muscular Dystrophy, Angelman’s Syndrome and other disabilities, which require body work and specialized interventions. (850) 230-6030 info@waterplanetusa.com www.waterplanetusa.com
Westside Buddy-Ball League
Westside Buddy Ball is a program for mentally and physically challenged youth between 5 – 21 years of age in an athletic environment structured to their abilities. Our program strives to teach the community to recognize the abilities of our participants rather than their disabilities. The value of the Babe Ruth Buddy Ball is therapeutic and socialization benefits of participating in sports, the strengthening of participants’ self-esteem, the opportunities to mainstream into other divisions of play, and the disciplines of teamwork, sportsmanship and fair play. Young adults, teens and children can volunteer to be a buddy to the participants. (251) 633-9853
www.westsidebaseball.com
Sickle Cell
insurance. Career assistance, After School Tutorial Program (ages 6-18), Summer Enrichment Program, Client support groups and fun activities. For the general public: Sickle cell screenings, lab onsite, Genetic counseling for those who test positive for sickle cell trait, Educational seminars and certification program. All services provided free of charge. (251) 432-0301 info@scdmobile.org www.scdmobile.org
Spina Bifida Spina Bifida Association of Alabama
Gadsden, AL 35902 The purpose of SBA is to develop, maintain, and provide current information about Spina Bifida to promote public awareness. We encourage the development of improved treatment and trained teams to care for all affected by Spina Bifida and advocate for educational, vocational and community support. (205) 682-5281 or (205) 417-5330 info@sbaofal.org www.sbaofal.org
Tourette Syndrome Tourette Association of America
Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Mobile Chapter, Inc.
1453 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36604 The Sickle Cell Association provides the following services to individuals throughout nine counties in southwest Alabama. Case management services, Transportation to/from medical appointments, medical and pharmacy assistance available for those without
The Tourette Association of America (formerly known as the Tourette Syndrome Association) is a non-profit organization working to make life better for all people affected by Tourette and Tic Disorders. We offer resources and referrals to help individuals and their families cope with the problems that occur with TS. We raise public awareness and counter media stereotypes about TS. Visit our website to find a chapter near you. (888) 4-TOURET (486-8738) support@tourette.org www.tourette.org ESP
there’s a new birth center on the eastern shore. Just arrived: the all-new Birth Center at Thomas Hospital. Spaciously re-envisioned with family-sized suites and a family-centered experience. From extensive childbirth education to post-natal fitness programs, the tradition is made new again, right here where it belongs.
infirmaryhealth.org
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ALABAMA’S HIGH SCHOOL Succeed at a high school where learning comes first. Find out how the Alabama School of Math and Science can lead you on a path to success. ASMS is our state’s only fully public, residential high school for highly motivated sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in math, science, and the humanities. Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Start your online application September 1, 2017 at www.asms.net.
Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. The 2017 senior class earned $13 million in merit-based scholarships and scored a composite 29.5 on the ACT, the highest in the school’s history. More than half of the graduates scored above 30. Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.3250.
Alabama School of Mathematics and Science 1255 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36604 251.441.2100 - www.asms.net 75 www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine admissions@asms.net
Getting All the Colors in Play
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
From the earliest age we surround our children with bright primary colors and strong contrasting shades to engage their senses. It’s believed that newborns discern black and white, only developing the ability to see color around three months. Once babies notice and differentiate color, parents begin to use everyday moments to introduce the youngest eyes to red, green, yellow, blue and more. When toddlers’ eyesight refines so does their interest in colorful objects and this fascination continues to evolve as they grow. As we age we discover broader palettes, even cultivating our favorite colors that accompany us into adulthood. Celebrating the exploration of color in variety of engaging ways, the following items offer a rainbow of resourceful color play.
by Gerry Paige Smith
Rainbow Counting Bears and Cups
Think & Learn Smart Scan Color Chameleon
Just the right size for little hands, this bright brigade of bears leads the way for small children exploring a colorful range of teachable moments. Featuring 60 small bears in six colors, six matching color cups, a storage container and an activity book available as download, this collection has endless educational outcomes to explore. These boldly colored bears stimulate open-ended play and learning activities that can help develop kids’ fine motor skills, cognitive understanding and visual perception. Color matching, cup stacking, sorting and early number sense enjoy a great beginning with these bears. Ideal for supporting counting games, Montessori math as well as autism therapy, Rainbow Counting Bears and Cups offer a broad spectrum of tactile color experience as part of every day play.
The Smart Scan Color Chameleon climbs to the top of learning electronics with innovative games and goals that get kids up and moving on the hunt for color. Kids use the hand-held chameleon scanner to learn colors and numbers associated with the included paint chips before being directed to seek out other specific chips. The color hunt can also expand into the larger house setting with additional games that challenge kids to find and scan other colors. Children are soon scrambling around their surroundings seeking new colors to scan. This kind of open-ended discovery is ideal for keeping kids engaged and learning. Just as versatile and colorful as its namesake, the Think & Learn Smart Scan Color Chameleon packs a lot of learning into one fun resource.
(Fisher-Price)
(Skoolzy)
Square Up!
Color-Changing Lab Putty
(Mindware)
Reminiscent of a flat Rubik’s Cube, this color-driven game places two players in a head-to-head race to see who can sort and manipulate color tiles the fastest. Equipped with their own lidded tile board and individual color cube shaker, the game play starts when the players shake their cubes and slam them down together. What follows is a vivid, lightning-fast race of color tiles on each players game board as they strive to duplicate the color pattern revealed in their shaker cube. The first to match the pattern with their tiles wins the round by quickly closing the clear lid down on their board, framing their colorful victory. Challenging spatial cognition and strategy, color sorting is just the beginning of this invigorating game as two players race to Square Up!
(Lab Putty)
In its resting (cool) state, the putty is dark violet. But when fingers begin to explore the thermosensitive putty surface, touch points begin to warm up into a bright pink. When the whole of the putty color has morphed to pink, placing the putty in a chilly spot (refrigerator or cool water) for a moment recharges the color-change exploration. Stretching, twisting, and shaping the putty provides an additional tactile stimulation that offers a degree of stress-relief and creative play. Non-toxic, non-drying and residuefree, this little bit of color science is also a perfect portable for travel entertainment. Putting the power of color-change in your grasp, this morphing lab putty is easy to pick up and hard to put down!
Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com
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A Page in a Book Books That Make a Splash While there are a few holdouts who don’t like bath time, most kids find a unique delight in water. The same parents who first struggled to lure their toddlers into a bath, quickly discover the challenges of calling kids in from the rain, pulling them away from the museum fountain, and convincing them its time to get out of the pool. From bathtubs and beaches to soapy sinks and mud puddles, the tactile exploration of water draws on kids’ imaginations like the pull of the tides. The following titles celebrate the joys of soggy moments, wet weather and the wonders of water through the eyes of children.
Rain
by Sam Usher (Templar / Candlewick) Waking up to a rainstorm instead of a rising sun puts a young boy’s outside plans on hold. While he insists he likes to play in the rain, his Granddad counsels waiting until the worst precipitation has passed. Trapped inside and impatient to venture out, the boy extols the various watery marvels that he’d like to encounter. Subtle references to underwater beasts, canals and watercraft abound indoors while the boy and his Granddad wait out the deluge. As the rain ends and the duo prepare to explore its remnants, the boy’s earlier imaginings of adventure begin to emerge in watery reflections. Celebrating both the comfort of a stormy day indoors, as well as the pleasure of emerging later into a freshly washed world, Rain is perfect for rainy day reading.
Wet
by Carey Sookocheff (Godwin Books / Henry Holt & Co.) Making time to really think about all the moments he gets wet every day, a young boy takes a deeper dive into the waters that touch his daily life. With brief language, he notes his wet footprints on the deck of a pool. He recognizes the variety of ways he enters the water, sometime inch-byinch, other times with an exuberant cannonball. His tears are wet, as is his father’s shoulder as they embrace. From the bottom of the playground slide to his dog’s tongue, the boy’s keen observations highlight all the ways he can experience the watery parts of his day. Whether it flows as a trickle or a splash, Wet is a peaceful paean to the water that wends through our lives.
Worm Weather
by Jean Taft, Illustrated by Matt Hunt (Grossett & Dunlap / Penguin Random House) Closer to the ground than most adults, our observant children are often the ones who draw our eyes back to the earth when they first spy worms emerging from the ground after a soaking rain. Using very simple pre-reader words, this title follows a boy and girl as they experience a soggy day from its drizzly beginnings, through the deluge, to the tapering close of a rainstorm. Equipped with boots and ponchos, the young pair fearlessly embrace and explore the precipitation. Throughout the watery journey, worms are peeking out from the soil at the kid’s feet. Echoing the limited viewing of the emerging worms, the adults are likewise viewed only in part as their hands reach out to rush kids out of the rain or to pull them from puddles. When the rain ends and the worms retreat, the reader’s view expands to encompass a wider vision of a refreshed world.
Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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k Celebrating over 13 Years of Family Fun! Get lost and have fun on the farm! September 30 through November 4 Monday-Thursday School Field Trips (by reservation)
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Giant Corn Field Maze - Hay Rides - Wagon Wheel Café - Farm Yard Fun Corn Cannons - Yee Haw Slide - Cow Train Rides - Funny Farm Mini Golf Fire Pits and Birthday Huts (by reservation only from website) Haunted Hayride & Field of Fright in October and much more...
“Christmas on the Farm” December 9th Calendar of Events—All Information on our website Saturdays 10AM –9PM
www.sewardfarms.com
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FamilyCalendar Friday September 1
Daphne Farmers Market 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, 2305 US-98 Daphne, 36526 Local farmers with locally grown produce, baked goods and great gulf fish. www.facebook.com/daphnefarmersmarket First Friday Art Walk 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope 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. Joe Jefferson Players presents “Annie” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players presents “Annie”. 251-471-1534 joejeffersonplayers.com Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night 8:00 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island & Greer’s Market Presents: Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. As always we encourage you to bring chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. Snack vendor will be on site during movie. Movie: Secret Life of Pets townofdauphinisland.org
Saturday September 2
Bloody Mary 5K Run / Walk 7:30 AM Tacky Jacks - Gulf Shores, 240 E 24th Avenue Gulf Shores, 36542 Join us for the 4th Annual Bloody Mary 5K Run-Walk at Tacky Jacks in Gulf Shores benefiting Furrever Homes Animal Rescue. www.active.com/gulf-shores-al/running/distancerunning-races/bloody-mary-5k-run-walk-2017 Joe Jefferson Players presents “Annie” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players presents “Annie”. 251-471-1534 joejeffersonplayers.com
Sunday September 3
5 Rivers Animal Ambassadors Meet and Greet
(Free)
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Road Spanish Fort, 36527 Alabama has one of the highest plant and animal diversities in the United States. Join a member of our human educational staff and meet one of the local critter inhabitants from the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and beyond. www.outdooralabama.com/5-rivers-alabamas-deltaresource-center Joe Jefferson Players presents “Annie” 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players presents “Annie”. 251-471-1534 joejeffersonplayers.com Labor Day Street Party
(Admission is FREE; some kids activities will range from $5 - $10 (animals, trampoline jumper, bouncy house, surf simulator, games and prizes, hula hoop artist and face painting), SPECTRA Sound & Light Spectacular)
5:00 PM The Wharf , 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 You’ve earned a much-deserved break from the hectic work week. In honor of the sweat and tears poured into the daily grind, The Wharf is
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throwing a party to help you drop those job-related worries and unwind. Set up shop on Main Street for this immersive event and slip away on the musical stylings of The Park Band. As expected, we’ve got the little ones covered with plenty of activities to keep them occupied for hours on end. alwharf.com Sunday Sunset Concert Dauphin Island 5:45 PM West End Beach, 3000 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island presents “Sunday Sunset Concerts” with Delta Reign & Dennis Gould. Entrance fees $5.00 per individual! As always, attendees are encouraged to bring beach chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. *All concerts approx time & weather permitting! townofdauphinisland.org
Tuesday September 5
5 Rivers StoryTime “Blue Burt and Wiggles” (Free)
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Road Spanish Fort, 36527 StoryTime at 5 Rivers. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. This week’s story is about unlikely friends that are besties even when they have to separate. www.outdooralabama.com/5-rivers-alabamas-deltaresource-center Tea for Two (Free) 2:00 PM Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Glenn Issacs - Glenn is a Coast Guard Auxiliary Public Affairs Specialist and will present a Civil War program on what went wrong during the Battle of Mobile Bay. 251-929-1471 www.cofairhope.com/departments/ museum
Wednesday September 6
Green Day Concert 7:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheatre, 23325 Wharf Lane Orange Beach, 36561alwharf.com
Thursday September 7
Lunch at the Shoppes 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Bel Air Mall Mobile, 36606 Join us for our third quarterly “Lunch at the Shoppes” weekend September 7 - 9. During lunch hours, participating restaurants and retailers throughout The Shoppes will offer specials and promotions. Customers can stroll The Shoppes while enjoying live music and art displays located throughout the mall. www.theshoppesatbelair.com United Way Campaign Kickoff Event 11:30 AM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, 36526 Fairhope Outdoor Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, Fairhope, 36532 The City of Fairhope will host a Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings starting May 4 and ending November 2, 2017. The market will be set up behind the Fairhope Public Library in the new parking lot in downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street. The market will feature local farmers, bakers, fresh Baldwin
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County produce, fresh cut flowers, local honey, plants, baked goods and more. The Fairhope Public Library will have children activities at 4 p.m. 251-929-1466 www.cofairhope.com South Baldwin Community Theatre presents Our Town 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theater, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36543 The story follows the small town of Grover’s Corners through three acts: “Daily Life,” “Love and Marriage,” and “Death and Eternity.” Showtimes: September 7, 8, 9, 15 & 16 at 7:30 pm. September 10 & 17 (Sunday) at 2:00 pm www.sbct.biz
Friday September 8
Lunch at the Shoppes 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Bel Air Mall, Mobile, 36606 Join us for our third quarterly “Lunch at the Shoppes” weekend September 7 - 9. During lunch hours, participating restaurants and retailers throughout The Shoppes will offer specials and promotions. Customers can stroll The Shoppes while enjoying live music and art displays located throughout the mall. www.theshoppesatbelair.com Daphne Farmers Market 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, 2305 US-98 Daphne, 36526 Local farmers with locally grown produce, baked goods and great gulf fish. www.facebook.com/daphnefarmersmarket Ferrill Gibbs Author/Songwriter Event 6:00 PM Page & Palette, 32 South Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Join Ferrill as he unveils his new book, The Secret Island of Edgar Dewitt, at Fairhope’s finest venue for acoustic music and stellar prose. Meet Edgar Dewitt and hear his soundtrack performed unplugged by All the Kimonos, Ferrill’s new band with Mobile native Brent Busby www.pageandpalette.com Joe Jefferson Players presents “Annie” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players presents “Annie”. 251-471-1534 joejeffersonplayers.com South Baldwin Community Theatre presents Our Town 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theater, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36543 The story follows the small town of Grover’s Corners through three acts: “Daily Life,” “Love and Marriage,” and “Death and Eternity.” Showtimes: September 7, 8, 9, 15 & 16 at 7:30 pm. September 10 & 17 (Sunday) at 2 pm www.sbct.biz Black Jacket Symphony 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience through recreating classic albums in a live performance setting. The Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” album is performed in its entirety by a group of handpicked musicians specifically selected for each album, with no sonic detail being overlooked–the musicians do whatever it takes to musically reproduce the album. www.mobilesaenger.com
Saturday September 9
Hurricane Run 5K and Fun Run 8:10 AM Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 102 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Join us for the Hurricane Run benefiting Dauphin Island Fire and Rescue. www.pcpacers.org
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Gulf Coast Arts Alliance Art Market 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 225 East 24th Avenue Gulf Shores, 36543 At each Art Market, dozens of fine artists gather to demonstrate, display and sell their work. Live music and children’s art activities make the event fun for all ages. www.gulfcoastartsalliance.com Market at Seasons 10:00 AM Seasons Consignment, Crafts & Gifts, 26992 AL-181 Fairhope, 36532 Event that features arts & crafts vendors, food trucks and local small businesses. Interested in signing up? Message us or email us at info@seasonsconsignment.com. Lunch at the Shoppes 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Bel Air Mall, Mobile, 36606 Join us for our third quarterly “Lunch at the Shoppes” weekend September 7 - 9. During lunch hours, participating restaurants and retailers throughout The Shoppes will offer specials and promotions. Customers can stroll The Shoppes while enjoying live music and art displays located throughout the mall. www.theshoppesatbelair.com Live at Five (Free) 5:00 PM Halstead Amphitheater, 450 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 a new concert series in Fairhope. Bring refreshments and a blanket. Joe Jefferson Players presents “Annie” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players presents “Annie”. 251-471-1534 joejeffersonplayers.com
South Baldwin Community Theatre presents Our Town 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theater, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36543 The story follows the small town of Grover’s Corners through three acts: “Daily Life,” “Love and Marriage,” and “Death and Eternity.” Showtimes: September 7, 8, 9, 15 & 16 at 7:30 pm. September 10 & 17 (Sunday) at 2:00 pm www.sbct.biz The Black Jacket Symphony: The Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience through recreating classic albums in a live performance setting. The Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” album is performed in its entirety by a group of handpicked musicians specifically selected for each album, with no sonic detail being overlooked–the musicians do whatever it takes to musically reproduce the album. www.mobilesaenger.com 27th Annual Sand Sea and Spirit Holistic Conference Retreat Phoenix VI, Orange Beach During these ten days. we exchange knowledge and talents – to learn more about nutrition, health care, self-help, T’ai Chi, meditation, massage, and many diverse modalities which help keep us healthy and happy. We realize a balance of body, mind, and spirit brings a wholistic approach to our life. Dates: September 9 - 19. Even though this is a ten-day event, participants can customize their experience from one class, one day, to the entire event. 337-794-0062 www.SandSeaAndSpirit.com
Brett Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon Gulf Shores Main Public Beach, 101 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 Sign up today for the Brett Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon. The triathlon begins early Saturday morning with a 1.5k swim in the Gulf of Mexico, a 40k bike ride through the state park and finishes with a 10k scenic run. The “Tri-it-on” Triathlon begins with a 300 yard swim, a nine-mile bike ride and a two-mile run. Join us for the awards ceremony and post race party at The Hangout. www.team-magic.com
Sunday September 10
Tunnel to Tower Race 7:30 AM USS Battleship Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602 Tunnel to Tower Race will be held September 10. eventbrite.com South Baldwin Community Theatre presents Our Town 2:00 PM South Baldwin Community Theater, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36543 The story follows the small town of Grover’s Corners through three acts: “Daily Life,” “Love and Marriage,” and “Death and Eternity.” Showtimes: September 7, 8, 9, 15 & 16 at 7:30 pm. September 10 & 17 (Sunday) at 2:00 pm www.sbct.biz Oyster Roast and Willie Sugarcapps 3:00 PM Weeks Bay Plantation, 12562 Mary Ann Beach Road Fairhope, 36532 Join us on the farm for some “shuckin’ and pluckin” at our September 10th Oyster Roast and Concert! Tickets are just $50 person and that includes roasted oysters prepared by
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FamilyCalendar Chef Randall Baldwin and a live musical performance by Willie Sugarcapps! This delicious event will feed the body and the soul as you dine on some of the Gulf’s most precious bounty while listening to an amazing group of Gulf Coast musicians. Bring your own blankets and chairs then leave the rest up to us! Get your tickets soon as there are a limited number available. See you on the farm! tickethookups.com/oyster_roast_concert_willie_sugarcapps Pop Up Trivia benefit for Baldwin Pops 6:00 PM Fairhope Brewing Company, 914 Nichols Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Music, beer, food, and prizes! Can’t miss this event! Sign up today and all proceeds benefit the Baldwin Pops Band. 251-232-1013
Joe Jefferson Players presents “Annie” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 S Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players presents “Annie”. 251-471-1534 joejeffersonplayers.com
Tuesday September 12
Tea for Two (Free) 2:00 PM Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Stephen Savage Stephen is the spokesperson for the Baldwin County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and is often seen on TV holding a puppy. 251-929-1471 www.cofairhope.com/departments/ museum
Thursday September 14
The Wharf Uncorked 12:00 PM The Wharf , 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Join us for the fourth annual The
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Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival, September 14th - 16th. The three day event combines tastings of delicious food and tantalizing wines, live entertainment, a pinch of southern flare and a dash of Gulf Coast hospitality. This event will raise funds for Make-A-Wish Alabama – an organization devoted to granting wishes to Alabama children with life-threatening medical conditions. 251-224-1021 alwharf.com Fairhope Outdoor Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, Fairhope, 36532 The City of Fairhope will host a Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings starting May 4 and ending November 2, 2017. The market will be set up behind the Fairhope Public Library in the new parking lot in downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street. The market will feature local farmers, bakers, fresh Baldwin County produce, fresh cut flowers, local honey, plants, baked goods and more. The Fairhope Public Library will have children activities at 4 p.m. 251-929-1466 www.cofairhope.com Girls Just Wanna Have Fun 5:30 PM 9:00 PM, The Steeple, 251 St. Francis Street Mobile, 36602 Wind Creek Casino & Hotel Atmore presents the 10th annual Girls Just Wanna Have Fun benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile on Thursday, September 14th, 2017 from 5:30 – 9:00 p.m. This “must do” event
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is an evening for ladies 21 years of age and older complete with heavy hors d’oeuvres from local area chefs and restaurants, McTini’s, and an unforgettable evening of manicures, make-overs, shopping and more! Purse-Onalities will be available at the 2017 Girls Just Wanna Have Fun event – and are sure to be enjoyed by all! Each year, a limited number of purses are available for this event which always creates a ‘shopping frenzy!’ Don’t miss out, purchase your event & Purse-Onality tickets today! rmhcmobile.org Food and Folly ($35/ticket or $60/2 tickets) 6:30 PM Fort Whiting, 1630 S Broad Street Mobile, 36605 Sample cuisine from the area’s best chefs, bid on a large selection of items in the silent auction and try your luck at the wine grab! To purchase tickets call 251.479.4900 or email wdean@ucpmobile.org. All proceeds from Food & Folly help to provide a life without limits for people with disabilities. 251-479-4900 www.ucpmobile.org
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Friday September 15
The Wharf Uncorked 12:00 PM The Wharf , 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Join us for the fourth annual The Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival, September 14th - 16th. The three day event combines tastings of delicious food and tantalizing wines, live entertainment, a pinch of southern flare and a dash of Gulf Coast hospitality. This event will raise funds for Make-A-Wish Alabama – an organization devoted to granting wishes to Alabama children with life-threatening medical conditions. 251-224-1021 alwharf.com Daphne Farmers Market 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, 2305 US-98 Daphne, 36526 Lo-
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FamilyCalendar cal farmers with locally grown produce, baked goods and great gulf fish. www.facebook.com/daphnefarmersmarket 2017 Women’s Forum 8:30 PM - 11:30 PM, Battlehouse Hotel, 26 North Royal Street Mobile , 36602 The Community Foundation would like to invite you to the 3rd annual Women’s Forum! This free event will take place on September 15th from 8:30 to 11:30 am at the Battle House in downtown Mobile. To learn more and reserve your spot, visit https://womensforum-mobile. eventbrite.com! Free womensforum-mobile.eventbrite.com
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Coastal Cleanup 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Various Locations, Alabama Coastal Cleanup returns for its 30th year. Residents, visitors, individuals and organizations are invited to “get the trash out of the splash” by picking up trash littering Alabama coasts and waterways from 8:00am-12:00pm. Volunteers are needed on foot and water. 30 locations around Mobile, Baldwin, and other counties, please visit our website to find a zone nearest you. 251-928-9792 www.alabamacoastalcleanup.com
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Jubilee Race for Life 8:00 AM Ball Field of Daphne Baptist Church, Corner of College Ave. & 6th Street Daphne The 5K starts at 8 a.m. and Fun Run follows at 9 a.m. Event ben-
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efits Bayside Medical Missions to provide corrective surgeries and wheelchairs for children & for persons of limited financial resources.
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2nd Annual Massacre Island Pirate Event (Adult tickets (ages 13 and up) $8.00, Children tickets (5-12) $4.00 Children 4 and under are FREE)
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Ft Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 On September 16th & 17th, Historic Fort Gaines and the 6th Alabama Calvary Bucaneers will host the 2nd Annual Massacre Island Pirate Event. The event will highlight Flintlock Pistol Duel, Pirate Tug of War, Swashbuckling Sword Play, Cannon Firing, Blacksmithing and music by the Kracker Dan Band. Treasure Hunt for the kids 12 and under. 251-861-6992 dauphinisland.org The Wharf Uncorked 12:00 PM The Wharf , 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Join us for the fourth annual The Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival, September 14th - 16th. The three day event combines tastings of delicious food and tantalizing wines, live entertainment, a pinch of southern flare and a dash of Gulf Coast hospitality. This event will raise funds for Make-A-Wish Alabama – an organization devoted to granting wishes to Alabama children with life-threatening medical conditions. 251-224-1021 alwharf.com Yoga Life Fair 2:30 PM Fairhope Pier, Kickoff to Yoga Month to benefit Feeding the Gulf Coast. This event is free but please bring a food donation, if you can. Explore Mindful lifestyle info booths and celebrate yoga as a physical practice AND conscious lifestyle! We
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will have music, food, and beginner friendly group practice and then mini-workshops demoing all the many kinds of yoga for every level and interest. Also, sign up for awesome and FREE raffle prizes! 2:30 pm Promo booths open/ 3:30-4 pm All Levels Group Yoga Practice/4:30-5:00 p.m. Mini Workshops Eric Church Concert 7:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheatre, 23325 Wharf Lane Orange Beach, 36561alwharf.com
Sunday September 17
2nd Annual Massacre Island Pirate Event (Adult tickets (ages 13 and up) $8.00, Children tickets (5-12) $4.00 Children 4 and under are FREE)
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Ft Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 On September 16th & 17th, Historic Fort Gaines and the 6th Alabama Calvary Bucaneers will host the 2nd Annual Massacre Island Pirate Event. The event will highlight Flintlock Pistol Duel, Pirate Tug of War, Swashbuckling Sword Play, Cannon Firing, Blacksmithing and music by the Kracker Dan Band. Treasure Hunt for the kids 12 and under. 251-861-6992 dauphinisland.org
Tuesday September 19
Tea for Two (Free) 2:00 PM Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Daymond Rehorn Officer Rehorn, of the Fairhope Police Department, is working with the City’s teenagers. Our best tea programs are having these fine officers who protect us and better our community. Please support them and come hear their stories. 251-929-1471 www.cofairhope.com/departments/ museum
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FamilyCalendar Wednesday September 20
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue in concert at the Saenger Theatre. www.mobilesaenger.com
Thursday September 21
Fairhope Outdoor Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, Fairhope, 36532 The City of Fairhope will host a Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings starting May 4 and ending November 2, 2017. The market will be set up behind the Fairhope Public Library in the new parking lot in downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street. The market will feature local farmers, bakers, fresh Baldwin County produce, fresh cut flowers, local honey, plants, baked goods and more. The Fairhope Public Library will have children activities at 4 p.m. 251-929-1466 www.cofairhope.com Olde Towne Daphne’s Third Thursday 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Daphne, Olde Towne Daphne’s Third Thursday open house is from 5-7 p.m. Olde Towne shops will stay open late and offer refreshments for patrons as they shop. Peppa’s Pig Surprise 6:00 PM The Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Peppa Pig, the #1 Family show of 2016, is back with an action-packed live show featuring your favorite characters as life size puppets and costume characters in Peppa Pig’s Surprise! Come join Peppa, George, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and more in an all singing, all-dancing adventure full of songs, games and surprises! Get tix to this
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exciting musical theatre performance here: www. peppapigliveUS.com www.peppapigliveus.com Southern Author Reading with Bill Riales 6:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Join the Spanish Fort Public Library as we welcome local author, Bill Riales, read from his latest book. Author will be available for questions and copies of books will be signed and sold at the event. www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org All in for Heart 6:30 PM The Pillars, 1757 Government Street Mobile, 36604 All In For Heart is a casino-themed event complete with casino games such as blackjack, craps, and roulette! Guests can expect fantastic food, complimentary beer and wine, live music and some great prizes! Each guest will receive $1,000 in “fun money” to use at the gaming tables. Come try your luck and help heal the hearts of patients at Children’s of Alabama. give.childrensal.org/allinforheart Art in Words 6:30 PM Erie H Meyer Civic Center, 1930 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 This second annual event is the result of a unique collaboration between the City of Gulf Shores, Gulf Coast Arts Alliance and the
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South Baldwin Community Theatre and will feature a four course meal prepared by Four Brothers Catering. Alabama Secretary of State John H. Merrill will be the master of ceremonies for the evening. “The event will pair 5 artists with 5 playwrights who will write a short play based on a piece of art,” said Programs and Events Manager Brigette Reynolds. “These plays will be the centerpiece of an evening which will include dinner as well as a live and silent auction led by veteran auctioneer Pete Horton.” 251-968-1434 www.gulfshoresal.gov/886/Art-intoWords
Friday September 22
Focus Women’s Conference 9:00 AM Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Focus Women’s Conference presented by Junior League of Mobile, Focus will feature a day of dynamic speakers, compelling panel discussions, interactive workshops, luncheon discussions and purposeful networking and conversations. www.focuswomensconference.com
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Daphne Farmers Market 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, 2305 US-98 Daphne, 36526 Local farmers with locally grown produce, baked goods and great gulf fish. www.facebook.com/daphnefarmersmarket
Saturday September 23
Daphne United Methodist Church Rummage Sale 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Daphne United Methodist Church, 2401 Main Street Daphne, 36526 Church wide rummage sale includes clothing, toys, household items and more! www.dumc.org
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FamilyCalendar Spanish Fort Fire Rescue Fire Prevention 5k 8:00 AM Meaher State Park, Spanish Fort, 36527 Spanish Fort Fire Rescue’s 2nd Annual Fire Prevention 5k and 1 Mile Fun Run. The run will start at Meaher State Park. Runners will race on a certified course down the Causeway, turn around and come back. After the 5k, we will have a 1 mile fun run event. T-shirts are available. eventbrite.com St Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer 8:00 AM USS Battleship Park, 2703 Battleship Memorial Park Mobile, 36602 Please join us as we celebrate 10 years of this one-of-a-kind run presented by the Catranis Family Charitable Foundation! This year’s GO Run 5K and one mile Fun Run/Walk will be held on Saturday, September 16, at the USA Moulton Tower & Alumni Plaza. Registration starts at 6:30 a.m. The 5K will begin at 8:00 am and the Fun Run at 9:00 am. All GO Run proceeds will benefit the amazing gynecologic cancer research taking place at the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. fundraising.stjude.org Jubilee Festival of Arts (Free Admission) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 1700 Main Street Daphne, 36526 This year we’ve added fresh energy by embracing a wide range of talents. Your favorite artisans will set up beneath the canopy of oaks with original paintings, one-of-a-kind pottery, handcrafted jewelry and thoughtful gifts. Come ready to shop,
but don’t miss out on the lively atmosphere. You’ll be treated to cooking competitions, craft demonstrations, pop-up performances and local musicians.Kids Art Park will also be back in Centennial Park with free activities for your young artist to explore their creative side. www.eschamber.com/page/Jubilee-Festival-Welcome ALS Walk 11:00 AM Hank Aaron Stadium, 755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard Mobile, 36606 More than just a few-mile trek, the Walk to Defeat ALS® is an opportunity to bring hope to people living with ALS, to raise money for a cure, and to come together for something you care about. The Walk to Defeat ALS® is The ALS Association’s biggest annual event, which raises funds that allow our local chapters to sustain care services and support research for much of the next year. alsa.org Hound Dog Music Festival 2017 3:00 PM Kenny’s Barn, 19437 County Road 9 Silverhill, 36576 BARC presents the first Annual Hound Dog Music Fest 2017! Performances by: Yeah, Probably, Lisa Mills, Marlow Boys, & Leavin Brothers! Old 27 Barbecue included with admission. Cash Bar. Tickets may be purchased online hounddogmusicfest.brownpapertickets.com. All proceeds benefit the Baldwin County Humane Society. hounddogmusicfest.brownpapertickets.com Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents Firebird 7:30 PM The Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 The opening of our season will celebrate the rich history of Russian ballet. We will be joined by dancers from The Juilliard School to bring to life famous scenes from some of the world’s most popular ballets. In addition, MSO will be part-
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nering with the Mobile Museum of Art to bring you art inspired by Ballet Russes which will be presented by projection during the performance. 251-432-2010 mobilesymphony.org/event/firebird
Sunday September 24
Jubilee Festival of Arts (Free Admission) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 1700 Main Street Daphne, 36526 This year we’ve added fresh energy by embracing a wide range of talents. Your favorite artisans will set up beneath the canopy of oaks with original paintings, one-of-a-kind pottery, handcrafted jewelry and thoughtful gifts. Come ready to shop, but don’t miss out on the lively atmosphere. You’ll be treated to cooking competitions, craft demonstrations, pop-up performances and local musicians.Kids Art Park will also be back in Centennial Park with free activities for your young artist to explore their creative side. www.eschamber.com/page/Jubilee-Festival-Welcome Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents Firebird 2:30 PM The Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 The opening of our season will celebrate the rich history of Russian ballet. We will be joined by dancers from The Juilliard School to bring to life famous scenes from some of the world’s most popular ballets. In addition, MSO will be partnering with the Mobile Museum of Art to bring you art inspired by Ballet Russes which will be presented by projection during the performance. 251-432-2010 mobilesymphony.org/event/firebird
Tuesday September 26
Tea for Two (Free) 2:00 PM Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Sherry-Lea Bloodworth
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FamilyCalendar Botop - Fairhope’s Economic Development Director has a most impressive resume of past executive positions on a global scale. She has now moved back to Fairhope and joined our current administration. Come hear her exciting plan for Fairhope’s future. 251-929-1471 www.cofairhope.com/departments/ museum
Vintage Affair 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Fort Whiting, 1630 South Broad Street Mobile, 36605 Join us September 28 for Vintage Affair benefitting the American Cancer Society. main.acsevents.org
ORANGE BEACH, AL on Sept. 30th and we don’t want you to miss out on any of the fun! Kids 12 and under run for FREE!!! A portion of our proceeds will also be donated back to a local Charity! www.thecolorvibe.com/orangebeach.php
Wednesday September 27
Friday September 29
Daphne Farmers Market 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, 2305 US-98 Daphne, 36526 Local farmers with locally grown produce, baked goods and great gulf fish. www.facebook.com/daphnefarmersmarket
Thursday September 28
Ten Sixty Five Downtown Mobile, Mobile TenSixtyFive is back for another FREE weekend of fun, music and friends in downtown Mobile, Alabama. Save the dates for September 29, 30 and October 1! tensixtyfive.com
Paws For a Cause Dog Walk American Autism & Rehabilitation Center will host the first annual Paws For a Cause dog walk on September 30th! This event will raise much-needed funds, and will go directly toward helping our special-needs patients. We can’t wait to see you at this event, which will include a walk, dog show, food, music, and more! Go to the “events” tab of AmericanAutismCenter.com or call 251.210.1632 for more details. 251-210-1632 AmericanAutismCenter.com
Jason Isbel & The 400 Unit + Frank Turner 7:00 PM The Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602www.mobilesaenger.com
Fairhope Outdoor Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, Fairhope, 36532 The City of Fairhope will host a Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings starting May 4 and ending November 2, 2017. The market will be set up behind the Fairhope Public Library in the new parking lot in downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street. The market will feature local farmers, bakers, fresh Baldwin County produce, fresh cut flowers, local honey, plants, baked goods and more. The Fairhope Public Library will have children activities at 4 p.m. 251-929-1466 www.cofairhope.com USPCA K-9 Trials Public Demonstration 6:00 PM Foley Sports Complex, 10113 Foley Beach Expressway Foley, 36535 Come see the very best K-9 officers from around the country as they show off their skills for the crowd as a part of the USPCA K-9 Trials. This demonstration is specifically for the public. The demo starts at 6 p.m. but get there early to see the officers parade in with lights and sirens!
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
Saturday September 30
Delta Dash 7:30 AM 8900 Lower Bryant’s Landing Road Stockton, 36579 Experience the Delta like never before. A 5K obstacle course race designed to challenge the heart, body and soul. The goal is simple…provide participants of all lifestyles and ages with an opportunity to test endurance, stamina, resilience, quick decision making skills, animal instinct and the ability to enjoy a face-full of mud, leaves or whatever else the terrain throws their way. deltadash.org Color Vibe 5K 9:00 AM The Wharf , 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 The Color Vibe 5k is coming to
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Ten Sixty Five Concert and Arts and Crafts Market Downtown Mobile, Mobile TenSixtyFive is back for another FREE weekend of fun, music and friends in downtown Mobile, Alabama. Save the dates for September 29, 30 and October 1! In conjunction with TenSixtyFive Music Festival, MAC is organizing an art market featuring one-of-a-kind arts and crafts produced by local artisans. It will take place in Cathedral Square on Saturday, September 30th and Sunday, October 1st from 2:00 PM until 7:00 PM during the free outdoor concert series! tensixtyfive.com
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FamilyCalendar Sunday October 1
Bras Across the Causeway 5:00 PM USS Battleship Park, 2703 Battleship Park Mobile, 36602 Race to benefit local patients undergoing treatment for daily expenses they cannot afford. www.eventbrite.com Ten Sixty Five Concert and Arts and Crafts Market Downtown Mobile, Mobile TenSixtyFive is back for another FREE weekend of fun, music and friends in downtown Mobile, Alabama. Save the dates for September 29, 30 and October 1! In conjunction with TenSixtyFive Music Festival, MAC is organizing an art market featuring one-of-a-kind arts and crafts produced by local artisans. It will take place in Cathedral Square on Saturday, September 30th and Sunday, October 1st from 2:00 PM until 7:00 PM during the free outdoor concert series! tensixtyfive.com
Wednesday October 4
Alabama Coastal Birdfest Various Locations, The 14th annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest is set for Wednesday–Saturday, October 4–7. New trips, expanded Bird & Conservation Expo, more fun for all! www.alabamacoastalbirdfest.com
Thursday October 5
Fairhope Outdoor Farmer’s Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, Fairhope, 36532 The City of Fairhope will host a Outdoor Farmer’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings starting May 4 and ending November 2, 2017. The market will be set up behind
the Fairhope Public Library in the new parking lot in downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street. The market will feature local farmers, bakers, fresh Baldwin County produce, fresh cut flowers, local honey, plants, baked goods and more. The Fairhope Public Library will have children activities at 4 p.m. 251-929-1466 www.cofairhope.com Think Pink Tea (Free) 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 This annual celebration of breast cancer awareness features a runway fashion show with models who are cancer survivors, supporters and caregivers. 251-445-9691
Alabama Coastal Birdfest Details October 4.
Friday October 6
Daphne Farmers Market 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, 2305 US-98 Daphne, 36526 Local farmers with locally grown produce, baked goods and great gulf fish. www.facebook.com/daphnefarmersmarket
benefit the Anchor Cross Cancer Foundation to help cancer patients in need along the Gulf Coast. 251-607-5081 www.anchorcrossfoundation.org Tour de Foley 7:00 AM OWA, 10113 Foley Beach Express Foley, 36535 Join us for a ride through southeastern Baldwin County, Alabama! The rides travel through flat and rolling rural farmland in and around the beautiful towns of Foley, Robertsdale, Loxley, Summerdale, Elsanor, and Elberta. The purpose of this event is to help the Foley Lions Club and the Foley Kiwanis Club in their community projects. www.active.com/foley-al/cycling/tour-de-foley-2017 Alabama Festival of Flavor 12:00 PM Downtown Foley, 112 West Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535 The Alabama Festival of Flavor showcases the many flavors of local and regional foods, wine and craft beer. This food, wine and craft beer event is focused on locally grown and produced products. 877-461-3712 www.alabamafestivalofflavor.com Phantasy Presents “An Evening In The Big Easy” 6:00 PM Fairhope Civic Center, 161 North Section Street Mobile, 36532 New Orleans Themed Fundraiser for Fairhope City Schools 251-990-3333
Alabama Coastal Birdfest Details October 4.
Alabama Coastal Birdfest Details October 4.
Saturday October 7
Sunday October 8
ACCF 3rd Annual Bass Fishing Tournament 6:30 AM Live Oak Landing, Stockton All proceeds will
Baldwin Pops Sunset Concert (Free) 6:00 PM Henry George Park, Fairhope
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Calendar Tuesday October 10
Go All In For Heart!
A Night Honoring Heroes 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 The event will include a reception, dinner and inspiring video presentations of two patients who suffered traumatic injuries and those who cared for them. University of South Alabama Foundation is the title sponsor for the inaugural event, which will benefit USA Medical Center’s Level 1 Trauma Center. www.usahealthsystem.com
Saturday October 14
7th Annual Dauphin Island Art Trail 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Various Locations, The 7th Annual Dauphin Island Art Trail will include over 50 local and regional artists spread around the island at 10+ locations with retailers who will be hosting the artists as well as many having open houses. Art Trail is free and open to the public. www.dauphinislandchamber.com
Sunday October 15
South Alabama Out of the Darkness Community Walk 1:00 PM Daphne City Hall, 1705 Main Street Daphne, afsp.org/Daphne
Classes/Meetings Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) Offering Adoptive Family Support Group Meetings in Baldwin County the 3rd Thursday of each month. The meeting is held at 3 Circle Church, 10274 Highway 104, Fairhope. from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Parent, Youth/Teen group and childcare is available. Topic discussions by adoption professionals and ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information call 251-460-2727 or 1-800-489-1886 or www.childrensaid.org. APAC also offers free counsuling services to adoptive families. Celebration MOPS Fairhope (Meets During School Year Only) Celebration MOPS meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. at Celebration Church, 8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope. Childcare is provided and is included in the fees. There is an annual $23.95 MOPS International membership fee and $30 per semester. Call the church office for info at 251-928-0343 or like us on Facebook at Facebook. com/celebrationmopsfairhopeal. Daily Living Skills Group for Parents with Children on the Spectrum Held the second Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at The Family Center, 27365 Pollard Road, Daphne. Focus is on daily living needs of families and their children, such as: Safety issues; How to have a family dinner out; Ways to assist with transition; How to talk with people who stare; Your questions, comments and suggestions. Limited childcare slots are available. For information, please contact Judy Bradshaw: (251) 990-7781. Fairhope MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) (Meets During School Year Only) We meet 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. every 2nd & 4th Monday (during the school year) at Fairhope United Methodist Church. All mothers of young children are welcome. Email
fairhopemops@yahoo.com for how to register. Father Central of Daphne *Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men, $75 giftcard upon completion. Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Call 251-626-1610 to register, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Chill Skills” - Anger Management by appointment. $25 giftcard upon completion. Call 251-626-1610 schedule, The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Nurturing Parenting, everything you need to know but were afraid to ask. Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Jump in on any Thursday! Call 251-626-1610 to register, 27365 Pollard Rd,
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Daphne. Shepherd’s Place (Christian Life Center) Ministry for memory & physically challenged. Mondays & Wednesdays 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 South Section Street, Fairhope. 9281148. 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
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FamilyCalendar 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.
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2017
Gift of Life The Gift of Life is a required maternity care program for Medicaid patients or Medicaid-eligible patients. The Gift of Life Program provides a caring system of prenatal services; education and care coordination for expectant moms and their babies. For info contact 949-3781. Thomas Hospital offers the following classes: Breastfeeding Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Monthly, first Tuesday, 6 - 8 p.m. Free. Infant CPR and Safety Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Pre-registration required. To register call 279-1373. Saturdays, 4 - 6 p.m. Moving Through Labor Childbirth Classes Three or four-week prepared childbirth class series which prepares the mother-to-be and her support partner for the labor and delivery experience. $30 fee for the class series. Thomas Fitness Center, (Fairhope) Mondays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope) Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Tuesdays, 6-8:30 p.m. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Pre-registration required. Call 251- 279-1373 or visit www.thomashospital.com for upcoming classes and registration. Natural Childbirth Classes, Fertility Awareness, Mother’s Comfort, Exercise and Nutrition For class schedule or 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. Pre-registration required.
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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 800-477-1104. Alateen Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room East Tower meeting room at Thomas Hospital. Call 391-1152 for more information. ALS Support Group Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month from 11 a.m. to noon at Thomas Medical Center. Call 205-937-4415 for more information. Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Health Resource Center located at: 308 S. Greeno Road, Fairhope. Call 928-8650 for more information. Cancer Support Group for Women Meetings are held the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room. For more information, call Patti Huval at 209-1229. Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Group Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251626-6337 for more information. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of these calendar events. However, you should call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.
Please send your calendar events to lynn@ easternshoreparents.com!
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Leap!
The Nut Job 2:
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: BSexual Content: AProfanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated Leap! PG for impolite humor and action. Dreams are often the powerful motivating force in a movie’s script. And when the aspirations are those of a couple of parentless children, the ambitions are unstoppable. It’s the late 1800s in France and young Félicie (voice of Elle Fanning) has attempted so many elaborate escapes from her surprisingly comfortable orphanage that she has become an endearing counterpoint to the institution’s otherwise humdrum activities. However, when her good friend Victor (voice of Dane DeHaan) provides his services as a creative accomplice, both manage to break free and make their way to Paris where each plan to pursue their dreams. The cliché plot holds few surprises, although it requires some great imagination (or plain naivety) to believe a girl with no classical training will be able to work her way through the complicated and demanding rigors of this art form, and have a chance of being chosen to dance a lead role in an upcoming show. Content concerns include mild potty humor, slapstick antics, mean-spirited competition, bullying and an over-the-top antagonist whose jealousy turns to murderous intents and threats with a sledge hammer. Still, this Canadian/ French co-production does boast some impressive visuals. It may also have young viewers with similar dreams happily doing pirouettes for a while to come. With that payoff in mind, perhaps sitting through this film won’t be tutu painful for parents.
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: C+ Violence: BSexual Content: B+ Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated The Nut Job 2: Nutty by Nature PG for action and some rude humor. The Nut Job 2: Nutty by Nature is a more-than-nutty sequel that foregoes many of the usual concerns about sex and profanity, but does provide a generous helping of slapstick animated violence. It also presents a mixed assortment of some of the most ingrained stereotypes promoted by media, wrapped up in a painfully ridiculous package and sent gift-wrapped to a young unsuspecting audience. This little guy vs big guy story includes all the usual elements you might expect. The critters do their best to chew through electrical cables (with much animated shock value) and jam up the equipment and amusement rides. They engage in silly antics to break jail and sabotage the enemy. They also bridge the gap between the opposing forces with two canines -- Heather’s servile French bulldog Frankie and Precious, a pug that was owned by two crooks in the first Nut Job movie and has since joined forces with the park animals. At first glance this film’s biggest crime happened when you paid to see it. Yet even if families hold out against the enticing advertising and their kids’ pleas until the home video release, parents should remember the power of repeated messages. The aforementioned stereotypes, and Andie’s role as a female who is helpless to do anything without Surly’s approval, may be reason enough to say, “nuts to this” and find something better to watch.
Logan Lucky
All Saints
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: C+ Sexual Content: B+ Profanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: CThe MPAA has rated Logan Lucky PG-13 for language and some crude comments. Instead of suave and sophisticated George Clooney heading up the large cast of thieves, this time we have Channing Tatum playing war vet Jimmy Logan. Left with a leg injury from service in Iraq, Jimmy is fired from his earth moving job at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in the opening minutes of the film after an HR minion noticed he walks with a limp. The cruel and heartless termination is the perfect setup for us to root for this blue-collar boy when he hatches an idea: return to his former workplace and steal a truckload of cash from a central depository buried under the raceway. Next, we need a team. Jimmy’s brother Clyde (Adam Driver) is an obvious first choice, and their sister Mellie (Riley Keough) is game to help too. Recognizing they need someone who has “professional” experience, the siblings seek out an old buddy in their small Virginia community who happens to be in prison. Joe Bang (Daniel Craig) is an explosive safecracker and even though he says he’s not interested, Jimmy quickly convinces him. This PG-13 film has numerous profanities yet, in other areas doesn’t push the limits of its rating. But parental concerns in media aren’t always about sex and violence. Logan Lucky is a fun film to view and offers an interesting portrait of life in the south without exploiting harmful stereotypes too much. Yet the stylized, creative camera work and precise editing are a thin veneer covering a message that lying, cheating and stealing are the basis of good luck.
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: B Sexual Content: AProfanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated All Saints PG for thematic elements. The script is based on the true story of Michael Spurlock (John Corbett), a former salesman turned Episcopalian minister who has been assigned to his first church. However, instead of being asked to build up a congregation, his calling is to disband the small group of parishioners who regularly attend All Saints Episcopalian Church in Smyrna, Tennessee. Refugees from Southeast Asia, known as the Karen people, have settled within the small community. Escaping from the violence of political and religious persecution in their homeland, the legal immigrants were taught Christian principles by Anglican missionaries in Burma (Myanmar). In need of financial and spiritual support, the newcomers believe they can find both within the church community. Not surprisingly, Michael doesn’t see how their tiny contingent, who can’t even cover their own expenses, can possibly support the struggling exiles. However, he discovers a higher authority has different plans. Shot at the actual church that’s the centerpiece of the story and casting as extras many of the Karen people who have settled in the area, All Saints is a sincere effort that enlightens and inspires. It illustrates what a community of people can achieve if they are willing to sacrifice and work together. It’s also a gentle reminder for church goers to deeply consider the purpose of their beliefs -- especially when the call to serve others seems too inconvenient or uncomfortable.
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