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Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

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Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

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September2018

Columns

Volume 11 Number 4

6 Publisher’s Note Lynn Knighton

8 Living With Children

Learning Disabilities and ADHD

Special Needs Siblings

What you need to know to best advocate for your child.

With the challenges of having a sibling with special needs, the benefits are even greater!

John Rosemond

16 Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

34 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

36 Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

38 Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Special Needs Guide

Local and national resources assist in caring for your child.

Meet JUUL

What every parent needs to know now.

44 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

72 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

On The Cover

Departments

Malakhi (11), son of Tiffaney and Jaumon Baker, Sr. Malakhi’s brothers are Amren Washington (15), Jaumon Baker, Jr. (7), and Myles Baker (2). Proud grandmothers and grandfathers are Gail McCall, Matilda Baker, Desha Lott, Darrel Lott, and Thomas Washington, Sr. Malakhi loves playing the Playstation with his brother. He likes looking through picture books and singing. His favorite song is John Legend’s “All of Me”. He also loves to smile!

Bits and Pieces 18

School Bits 74

Family Calendar 84

Movie Reviews

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Publisher’sNote

N The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source

Every September, Eastern Shore Parents magazine publishes our “Special Needs” issue, dedicated to families with children who have special needs. While publishing this issue I have the opportunity to meet the most incredible families. I meet parents who have a strength that I can only imagine, kids who are loving and determined, along with siblings whose protection and support shows no bounds. Each one is an inspiration and an example of how families come together to care for one another. If you are not a family with a special needs child, you most likely are friends with a family who is. It is not only important to support these children and their parents, but also the siblings. These brothers and sisters have the opportunity at an early age to learn many positive life skills, but can also face difficulties. Challenges and Benefits of Having a Sibling with Special Needs, by Sarah Lyons, shares some insight on the subject. Our hope is that this article will help you find ways you can support these super siblings. When we first started publishing the Special Needs issue, I admit I was nervous about how we would find the resources needed to make a directory special needs families would find informative and helpful. Many of these resources are word of mouth or difficult to find with an internet search. This, like many of our directories, is truly a community effort. Businesses, organizations, parents and relatives continue to share stories and resources with us. The guide continues to grow each year and is filled with therapists, financial resources, recreational activities, support groups, and more. To view this year’s Special Needs Resource Guide, turn to page 50. Families who would like an opportunity to visit with some of these resources in person will have an opportunity to do so at our Special Needs Expo! This year’s expo will be held Saturday, September 22 at St. Paul’s Life Center in Daphne, from 10am – 1pm. Please see the ad on page 63 for more details. If you are interested in being an exhibitor for this expo, please call 929-2099 or send us an email, lynn@easternshoreparents.com Just like special needs parents, most parents are concerned for their child’s health and wellbeing. That being said, there is a dangerous trend parents of teens need to know about. It has become such an issue that during the first week of school, one of our schools sent an email to all the parents informing them of the growing problem with JUUL. If you are not familiar with it, I urge you to read Meet JUUL: What Every Parent Needs to Know Now, found on page 68. Many of us have seen kids walking down the street or driving in the car with a cloud of vapor billowing around them from their e-cig. As the article tells us JUUL is different. JUUL is very discreet but, like the e-cigs, can contain some very dangerous chemicals with serious consequences. Make sure you know about JUUL so you can talk to your teen. On a happier note, in this month’s issue you will find plenty of fun, family activities to fill your schedule, so make sure you check out the Family Calendar. Have a wonderful month and we hope to see you on September 22!

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

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Kimberly Blaker Mark Gregston Christa Melnyk Hines 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 ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099 Accounts Manager Eleanor Williams Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us online at www.easternshoreparents.com

Lynn

lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

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

Eastern Shore Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 374, Montrose, Alabama, 36559. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 929-2099. Eastern Shore Parents is copyrighted 2017 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Eastern Shore Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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New pediatric specialists for Gulf Coast families

When your child is sick, you need personalized, compassionate care — care that starts with a team of doctors who listen to children and understand them like you do. That’s why the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart, a part of Ascension, is now affiliated with the Southeast’s largest academic health center, University of Florida Health.

James Burns, MD

Adolescent Medicine University of Florida

Matthew Steiner, MD

Matthew Furst, MD

Theresa Roca, MD

James Coticchia, MD

Berrin Ergun-Longmire, MD Pediatric Endocrinology University of Florida

Pediatric Gastroenterology University of Florida

Brent Thompson, PA

Debra Cohen, MD

Jeffrey Schwartz, MD

Robert Huang, MD

Tracy Roberts, MD Pediatric Orthopedics University of Florida

Dana Wert, ARNP

Pediatric Orthopedics Sacred Heart Medical Group

Bryan Weidner, MD

C. Gerry Henderson, MD

Mark Wehry, MD

Pediatric Cardiology University of Florida

Together, Sacred Heart and UF have hired 25 pediatric specialists, who live and work full time on the Gulf Coast, caring for the region’s smallest patients and their parents. Find a physician, and see our patients’ stories: studerfamilychildrenshospital.com

Bevin Weeks, MD Pediatric Cardiology University of Florida

Pediatric ENT University of Florida

Robert Dillard, MD

/sacredheartchildrenshospital /studerchildrens

Alan Sacks, MD

Pediatric Gastroenterology University of Florida

PEDIATRIC SPECIALTIES

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

Amanda Strobel, MD

Pediatric Hematology/Oncology University of Florida

David Shapiro, DO

Pediatric Infectious Diseases University of Florida

Edward Kohaut, MD

Pediatric Neurosurgery Sacred Heart Medical Group

Gulnur Com, MD

Jonathan Papic, MD

Pediatric Pulmonology University of Florida

Matthew Pearson, MD

Pediatric Nephrology University of Florida

Pediatric Surgery Sacred Heart Medical Group

Pediatric Orthopedics Sacred Heart Medical Group

Pediatric Surgery Sacred Heart Medical Group

Pediatric Urology University of Florida

Pediatric Urology Sacred Heart Medical Group

Jamie Thorn, ARNP

Donna Williams, ARNP

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850-462-9496

Pediatric Urology Sacred Heart Medical Group

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

The Marriage Must Come First Q: I am stepfather to my wife’s only child, age 8, from her first marriage. My wife always and in every way puts her son before our marriage. We went through counseling several years ago and things got better for a while, but then began slipping back into child-comes-first mode. Believe me, we have a near-perfect marriage outside of her putting her son first and not supporting me when it comes to discipline. My wife struggles constantly to make him happy and it’s really hurting our relationship. Do you have any advice for me or us? A: You’ve described what is in my estimation the number one reason why the divorce rate is so high (relatively speaking) for marriages where at least one party brings a child or children with them into the union. Specifically, either the male parent cannot shift out of dad and into husband or the female cannot shift out of mom and into wife. Said another way, for

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

the person or people in question, being a parent trumps being a spouse. A parent-child relationship of this sort is defined by the lack of an emotional boundary between the two parties. Your wife experiences her son’s emotions as if they were her own. Any unhappiness on his part makes her anxious and kicks her into high-enabling. Furthermore, his unhappiness is, from her perspective, indication of her failure as a parent. The solution, she thinks, is more enabling. A vicious and mutually destructive cycle has developed. The more she enables, the more helpless he behaves, and the more she enables. And around and around they go. That is, in a word, codependency. Since the prior round of counseling had a positive effect, it makes sense for the two of you to give that another try. Know, however, that this is one of the most intractable problems a counselor will ever encounter. My question, therefore, to you:

Are you prepared to hang in there another ten years or so, in the hope that when said son goes off on his own, the “near-perfect” marriage you now have will realize its full potential? That would certainly be my recommendation. By the way, the problem of one or both spouses putting parenting in front of being husband or wife is not only the single biggest problem in step- and blended families; it is also the single biggest problem in first marriages where there are children. Unfortunately, the child-centric family has become the norm. That’s why so few husbands and wives these days are found on the same parenting page, or even in the same parenting book, or even in some cases in the same parenting library. It may sound counterintuitive, but agreement concerning parenting issues requires being married first, parents second.

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

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South Baldwin Community Theatre Announces “The Miracle Worker”

2nd Annual Special Needs Expo

Helen Keller is a bright, strong, energetic child -- but is left both blind and deaf in the wake of an illness as a baby. Her heartbroken mother Kate is Helen’s best protector, while her half-brother James wants to send Helen to an institution, and her father Arthur Keller, a former Captain in the Confederate Army, is worried for the safety of their new baby. Enter Annie Sullivan, a lively and stubborn Yankee girl, barely out of school herself, with the experience of childhood blindness — now cured, after numerous operations. Driven by the demons of her traumatic past, Annie, the unlikely Miracle Worker, fights to reach Helen and bring light to the darkness of her mind. Showtimes are September 14, 15, 21 and 22 at 7:30 PM and September 16 and 23 at 2:30 PM. Box office hours are Monday thru Friday, 10 AM - 2 PM. Tickets also available online. For more information visit www.sbct.biz.

Mobile Bay Parents and Eastern Shore Parents will host their 2nd Annual Special Needs Expo, sponsored by Palmer’s Toyota, High Hopes 4 Autism and Thomas Hospital/Infirmary Health, on Saturday, September 22 from 10 AM to 1 PM. The event will be held at Life Center at St. Paul’s, 28788 North Main Street, Daphne. Admission is free and attendees will have the opportunity to visit with exhibitors and learn about products, support groups, recreational activities, healthcare, therapy and other services for children and adults with special needs. Call 251-304-1200 for info.

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Baldwin County Education Coalition’s Sixth Annual Golf Classic

The Sixth Annual Baldwin County Education Coalition Golf Classic tees off September 13, at Rock Creek Golf Club in Fairhope. Presented by Baldwin County Sewer Service (BCSS), this premier golf tournament is the Coalition’s sole fundraiser and seeks additional sponsorship opportunities, as well as team players to benefit Baldwin County Education Coalition (BCEC). Accompanying the returning prizes, this year’s tournament festivities will include a complimentary lunch, dinner and beverages. Registration and lunch begin at 11:30 AM with a shotgun start at 1:00 PM.

Buddy Walk 2018

Alabama Coastal Cleanup

Team up to get the Trash Out of the Splash at the 31st Annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup. Show your support and concern for Alabama’s coastal waterways and beaches on Saturday, September 15, from 8 AM – 12 PM. Over 87,000 volunteers have assisted in this event since Alabama joined the International Coastal Cleanup in 1987. We are grateful to the many helping hands and hearts who have pitched in to benefit our priceless natural resources. Please visit alabamacoastalcleanup.com for more information. Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

The Buddy Walk will take place October 20, at 9 AM in Bienville Square. Along with the one-mile walk through the historic area, our event also features music, special guests, games for all ages, and much more. The Buddy Walk was developed by the National Down Syndrome Society in 1995 to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October and to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down Syndrome. The Buddy Walk is a one-mile walk in which anyone can participate without special training. It is a wonderful, heart-warming event that celebrates the many abilities and accomplishments of people with Down Syndrome. Whether you have Down Syndrome, know someone who does or just want to show your support, join our Buddy Walk! Please visit www.dssmobile.org for more information. www.easternshoreparents.com

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Out of the Darkness Community Walk for Suicide Prevention

The City of Daphne will host the Eighth Annual South Alabama Out of the Darkness Community Walk on Sunday, October 14 from 1 - 4 PM in front of Daphne City Hall. The net proceeds from the event will benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the leading national not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research, education and advocacy, and reaching out to people with mental disorders and those impacted by suicide. A memory wall and table will be set up at the Daphne Walk so pictures, poems and messages can be displayed to honor loved ones. There will also be music, food, informational booths and activities for the kids. Our friendly furry friends are welcome, but please, on a leash, and clean up after them. We will have a water and treat station for them, as well as bandanas to purchase. There will also be a beautiful butterfly release at the end to represent HOPE. In the United States, it is estimated that a suicide attempt is made every minute, with close to one million people attempting suicide annually. Let’s raise awareness, stop the stigma and save lives! If you would like to form a team, join a team or walk on your own, and donate, please go to afsp.org/Daphne. Registration is free, but if you do raise $150, you will receive this year’s Walk to Prevent Suicide t-shirt the day of the Walk. For further information, please email Lydia at jlbarber5@bellsouth.net.

Delta Dash Set for September 29

The 7th Annual Delta Dash will take place on Saturday, September 29, in the upper Delta near Lower Bryant’s Landing. A five-K 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, mud crawling, detours off main trails, through a creek, over a hay bale and so 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! Visit www.DeltaDash.org to register today! “Like” us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/thedeltadash) or visit the Delta Dash website (www.deltadash.org) to check for updates and event details!

Keep your benefits and save for the future. Enable Savings Plan labama. Enable Savings Plan Alabama provides tax-free savings accounts for eligible individuals with disabilities. You can save for current and future expenses without impacting your resource-based benefits. To find out more about Enable Alabama and to sign up for updates, visit us at EnableAL.com. Investments Are Not FDIC Insured* | No Bank, State or Federal Guarantee | May Lose Value *Except the Bank Savings and Checking Investment Options ©2017 First National Bank of Omaha

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FEEF Presents School of Rock Fall Fundraiser

Save the date for Friday, October 19, 2018 as the Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation (FEEF) presents its annual fall fundraiser School of Rock. This band party extraordinaire will have you dancing the night away as you enjoy delicious food and drinks all for an amazing cause, our Fairhope public school students. The event will be held at the Fairhope Civic Center and doors will open at 6:30 PM. The Foxy Iguanas, the Gulf Coastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premiere variety band for over a decade, will crank up the party with an amazing show starting at 8:00 PM. Tickets are $60 per person for this 21 and older event and are available now online at www.feefonline.org. Sponsorships for the event are available, for more information visit www.feefonline.org or call (251) 990-3333. Stay up to date with FEEF by liking www.facebook.com/FEEFfairhope.

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

Festival of Flavor to Take Over Downtown Foley

The 7th Annual Festival of Flavor will take place Saturday, October 6 in the streets of Downtown Foley from Noon until 5 PM, showcasing the many flavors of local and regional food, wine and craft beer. Stroll the streets of Downtown Foley while enjoying the unique specialty wines, craft beer, food trucks and delectable cuisine prepared by local chefs and restaurants. Enjoy the action of SEC football on the giant screens in our game day area as your favorite teams play. As a qualifying event for the World Food Championship, guests can watch as local chefs prepare their signature dish to fight for the golden ticket into the WFC! General Admission: $20 (includes unlimited food samples and 3 beer/wine samples). Children 12 and under: $10 (includes unlimited food samples and 1 free nonalcoholic beverage); VIP: $60 (includes unlimited food samples, 3 full adult beverages and access to the VIP tent and private restroom trailer. Also receive a commemorative mug or wine glass while supplies last). This is a gated, ticketed event. Entrance points will be located at Alston St. and Highway 98 and on Orange Ave. and Highway 59.

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11th Annual Never Forget Free Lunch at Original Oyster House

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 Tuesday, Sept. 11, from 11 AM to 4 PM. The 11th 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 AM to 4 PM. Just show your ID or better yet wear your uniform so we may recognize you with a handshake,” stated David Dekle, co-founder of the Original Oyster House restaurants. In memory of 9/11, LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, a 501(c) 3 non-profit community blood supplier, will also be on hand at the Mobile Causeway location for blood donations. All blood donations collected will be distributed to local hospitals. Local attractions will also be onsite to honor our first responders and pass out free or discounted tickets. iHeart Radio’s Mason will live broadcast the day’s event.

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 8. To register or to get involved call 850-438-5555, visit www.captainsforkids.com or find us on Facebook!

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Cooking for the Community Boston Butt Sale

Cooking for the Community (CFTC) is a ministry of Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church in Fairhope, dedicated to helping needy area families through home repairs; sponsoring school children for afterschool tutoring and “Summer Enrichment Academy” programs; providing scholarships for WinShape and Created for a Purpose camps, and more. CFTC is proud to announce this year’s fundraiser, the 8thAnnual Cooking for the Community Boston Butt Sale! You can purchase a Boston Butt for $40 online (www.CFTCbbq.com) or call their message line, 251-210-1229. Orders must be placed by Monday, October 1st, but during the month of August there is a discount available for ordering multiple butts. Pickup date is Saturday, October 13 between 9 AM and 12 noon at Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church, 23050 Highway 98, Fairhope. www.facebook.com/cookingforthecommunity

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

Fall Tour Day at Bayshore Christian School

Bayshore Christian School will be hosting their Fall Tour Day on November 13 at 8:30 AM. BCS is a classical Christian school for grades K4-12. If you are interested in learning more about Bayshore and the classical Christian education they offer, please make plans to attend. You will have the chance to tour the campus, meet current BCS students, and discover what makes a BCS education stand out. Questions may be directed to the school office at 251-929-0011, or you may check out their website at www.bayshorechristian.org for more information.

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Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

Wind Creek Casino & Hotel – Atmore presents the 12th Annual Girls Just Wanna Have Fun fundraiser benefitting the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile on Thursday, September 13, from 5:30 – 9:00 PM at Mobile Government Plaza. This event is an evening for ladies 21 years of age and older, complete with heavy hors d’oevres from local area chefs and restaurants, McTini’s, and an unforgettable evening of manicures, makeovers, shopping and more! Tickets for Girls Just Wanna Have Fun are available for $50 in advance or $60 at the door. Attendees also have the opportunity to purchase additional tickets for a stylish “Purse-Onality” at $25, $50 or $100, which includes a purse – and a surprise gift inside valued at that price or more! Proceeds from Girls Just Wanna Have Fun directly benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile, which supports families through their House and Family Rooms. For more information about Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, visit rmhcmobile.org/girls, or call the Ronald McDonald House at (251)-694-6873.

The Jubilee Festival of Arts Celebrates 30th Anniversary

The 30th Annual Jubilee Festival of Arts will be held September 29 & 30 on Main Street in Olde Towne Daphne from 10 AM to 5 PM. Admission is free. To mark the milestone, they've rolled out a new logo and website. Your favorite artisans will be set up beneath the canopy of oaks with original paintings, one-of-a-kind pottery, handcrafted jewelry and thoughtful gifts. The creations of up-and-coming high school artists will be on display in the High School Art Exhibit. The Kids Art Park is free for families thanks to the festival's generous sponsors. The World Food Championships Qualifiers will be back for a second year as chefs vie for bragging rights and a Golden Ticket to the televised Championships in Orange Beach. The Entertainment Stage will be filled with local talent and you may see a few new faces with pop-up shows & performances in the streets. The entertainment schedule is posted at www.thejubileefestival.com. Updates throughout the festival can also be found on the festival Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/jubileefestivaldaphne.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

The Special Child Needs a Special Family With school back in session, I want you and your kids to think about something. I want to call attention to a group of kids and families whose lives might be a little different than you and me. These children and young adults I am referring to are kids with “special needs” and the families who sacrifice so much to take care of them. When I say special needs, I am referring to kids who have chronic health problems that can range from a preemie baby with complications, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, congenital heart and lung disease, autism, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, and any other life long illness. The families that take care of these children are special in and of themselves. Their devotion to these kids is an amazing story, and today we will meet some of them. When I first met Kevin, I was in the ER at The Children‘s Hospital of Alabama in Birmingham, and I wasn‘t sure what to expect. This was a 26 year old man with a lifelong pediatric illness called Duchenne‘s Muscular Dystrophy, an inherited disorder that affects the muscles and lungs and leads to a severely shortened lifespan. I expected a sad person with a downtrodden family who had dealt with a lifetime of hospitalizations, medicines, and surgeries, but boy was I surprised. I walked into the room to see a smiling, polite young man who was in the middle of telling a story about how he had tricked his little brother into putting a salt covered lemon in his mouth for 30

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

seconds, and the parents were cracking up! I thought to myself, how can such a devastating situation lead to this wonderful family laughing about a prank? How would I feel if that were me? How would I feel if that were my child? Cody was a young child of 9 years who I met in Birmingham as well, who was basically a permanent resident of the pulmonary ward. Cody had a severe form of Cystic Fibrosis, a devastating disease that affects not only the lungs, but also the pancreas, liver, and gut. When I walked into his room, he was on the phone with the local sports talk radio station that broadcasted all over the city and he was talking up NASCAR and Auburn football! He was such an avid fan that they expected him to call in every afternoon to talk sports! At this point, Cody had been admitted to the hospital for over 6 weeks receiving IV antibiotics and other therapies that he could not do at home. Later that night, I saw him and two other kids with CF wondering the halls and joking around. As we were talking, the other kids drifted off, and we started talking about his family. He was one of 5 kids, and the only one with CF. He hadn’t seen his parents in 5 weeks, mainly because they lived two hours away and had to work two jobs to help take care of not only the other the kids, but to help pay for all of his care at home and in the hospital. I expected him to be sad about his family situation, but in fact, he was so amazed and thankful that his parents worked that hard

to support his family. How would I respond? How could I help? I have seen numerous kids and families like Kevin and Cody throughout my career and I am constantly amazed at their stories. I know families who sacrifice their entire lives to take care of these kids with special needs, including numerous doctor and hospital visits. I have seen families torn apart by the stress that goes along with the sacrifices they make and I have seen families strengthened by them. So my word of advice to you is to pray for strength for these families and help them any way you can. And help can come in lots of ways! Sometimes, just a simple smile and hello and acceptance can make a world of difference to these families. One of the most important things a child with special needs can do is to be incorporated into mainstream activities. School, sports, and extracurricular activities are important aspects of a normal childhood and are so important to these kids and families, so be sure to welcome them with open arms and help if you can. Finally, teach your kids to do the same. Teach them to be open and accepting to all human beings, especially those with special needs. 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

The Last First Day at Bay Minette Elementary

GSES 2nd Grade Brain Break Fun

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These Gulf Shores Elementary School 2nd graders are enjoying being back at school for several reasons, including â&#x20AC;&#x153;Brain Breakâ&#x20AC;? time with their friends! Pictured left to right: 2nd graders Nicholas Chiseev, Manuela Martins and Nicholas Buzilan.

There were smiles and tears as students returned to school in Baldwin County. While construction is underway on a brand new school, Bay Minette Elementary students and teachers started their last first day at the historic campus that is nearing its 100th birthday. It was a great start to a new school year!

Students Create Mural for J. Larry Newton First Day

Teacher Team-Building at Foley Middle School

Students at J. Larry Newton collaborated during Meet the Teacher to make a beautiful mural hanging in the entryway welcoming everyone back for the 2018-19 school year!

Team building was the name of the game this summer for this group of Foley Middle School teachers. The group joined together for activities with new staff at the Gulf Bowl! Learning and having fun together creates an environment of family at Foley Middle School.

Pine Grove Elementary Receives Big Surprise!

Pine Grove Elementary School teachers received a big surprise today courtesy of Pen Air Federal Credit Union. The Credit Union delivered gift bags of supplies for every staff member as well as a $1,500 donation as part of its #TreatATeacher campaign. Pen Air received more than 2,000 nominations in the contest, which was open to schools in Baldwin, Escambia, and Santa Rosa Counties. One winner was selected from each county and Pen Air representatives said Pine Grove Elementary was the overwhelming winner for Baldwin County! What a testament to the relationship this faculty has with the community! Congratulations PGES and thank you Pen Air for investing in our schools!

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Baldwin County HS Tiger Guard Treated to a Bowling Trip

After a long, but productive first week of band camp, the Baldwin County High School Tiger Guard team was treated to a special surprise trip to Strike City Lanes in Bay Minette. The team was able to continue their bonding experience and have a little fun in the process. The Tiger Guard wanted to thank the City of Bay Minette and Standard Furniture for sponsoring items to the team, including water bottles, blankets and bowling passes. The team is coached by Alex Jacobs and performs as part of the BCHS Tiger Band.

GSMS Cheerleaders Earn Awards at UCA Cheer Camp

The Gulf Shores Middle School cheerleaders attended UCA camp at the Beach Club Resort. They were awarded the Top Banana and two gold superior ribbons for their cheer and rally routine. The team also received the Superior trophy for their excellent scores all week. Kambrie Rowe and Natalee Cerne were chosen for the Pin It Forward Award. Nevaeh Williams and Kaitlyn Hoff made UCA All-American. Cheerleaders: Kaitlyn Hoff, Nevaeh Williams, Addison Reddick, Kambrie Rowe, Natalee Cerne, Jordyn Buckmaster, Kaleigh Davis, Morgan McCartney, Natalie Daniel, and Siddah Weihing. Coaches: Kristin Weaver and Megan Michaelson.

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Autauga County Schools Cheer Camp for Summerdale Middle School Cheerleaders

Summerdale Middle School participated in a camp put on by University of South Alabama cheerleaders this summer. They did an amazing Job! Congrats to Morgan Kroll for winning the jump off, Kayleigh Steiner for winning camp leadership award, and to Alexis Walker, Breanna Newburn and Morgan Kroll who were selected as USA All- American.

SFHS Students Earning College Credit

The students in Mrs. McBeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dual enrollment English 101 class at Spanish Fort High school can earn credit for 2 college classes by the end of the year!

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Twinsies at Daphne East Lauren Templeton and Tommie Autrey, both 6th grade teachers at Daphne East Elementary, happened to dress alike for the first day of school!

Central Christian Student Places in Photography Contest

Gabe Gregory, a 6th grade student from Central Christian School in Robertsdale was a finalist in the Annual Agricultural and Landscape Photography contest sponsored each year by United Bank. There were approximately 900 entries in the adult category where his photo competed. The instructions were to take a picture of where you live across the Gulf Coast. Gabe loves photography and fishing. He snapped this shot from his dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boat while on Pensacola Bay shark fishing. He had a great day on the water catching no sharks, just big bites, but ending up with a beautiful photograph of our grey pelicans.

CTKCS Back to School Night

Congratulations to Christ the King Catholic School fourth grade teacher, Miss Ryan...she was the winner of the PTO "school supply cake" from the drawing at Back to School Night! Also, all of our teachers received a $100 gift card from the PTO for classroom â&#x20AC;&#x153;wish list" items. 21

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Autauga County Schools

Cardinal Day at St. Michael Catholic School

St. Michael held our Cardinal Day the week before school started, where all students and parents come to get their Chromebooks and finish the registration process. Our PTO welcomed everyone and had spirit items available! L-R: Lee Tapscott, Roberta Mullek, Brandi Eslava, Suzette Taylor & Michael Taylor.

Spanish Fort MS Welcomes New Faculty

Spanish Fort Middle School geared up for the new school year by welcoming new faculty members into the Toro Family. New teachers are pictured from left to right. Back Row: Curtis Hixon, Cain Harbin, JoAnne Theodore, Michelle Hocker, Alex Bradshaw, Emily Hankins, Caroline Wells. Front Row: Jac Richardson, Nita Wright, Kathryn Carter, Natalie Hughes.

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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 in front of a Bayshore back-drop, noting their first day of school. BCS welcomed 63 new students to their campus this year, as their enrollment rose to 388 K-12th grade students. Faculty and staff members prepared for weeks for the arrival of this school year.

Foley ES Welcomes New Administration

Foley Elementary would like to welcome our new administration team for the upcoming school year. Angie Beard will be joining Torrey Berry as Assistant Principal and Dr. Michelle Moore is Foley's new principal. Teachers and staff are looking forward to a great and exciting school year.

First Day at J. Larry Newton

Ms. Patrice Wolfe, J. Larry Newtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s principal, is all smiles while welcoming Henry and Emma Booth to J. Larry Newton with a first day of school hug! 23

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New Staff for a New Year at GSMS

Gulf Shores Middle School welcomes their new staff members for the 2018-2019 school year. Pictured here left to right top row - Bruce Adams, Jackson Adams, Lee Stacks, and Jud Robinson. Bottom row – Amanda Woerner, JoLynn Steip, and Jessica Lynch.

Autauga County Schools Foley MS Teachers Learn About Cultural Differences Teachers and staff from Foley Middle School spent time this summer learning about cultural differences and the impact on student learning. It’s all about building relationships with staff, students and community at Foley Middle School.

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CTKCS Welcomes New Teachers

Christ the King Catholic School welcomed five new teachers to campus this year. From left, Mr. Josh Hamilton—Jr. High Social Studies, Mr. Kai Lopez—P.E. coach, Mrs. Abbie Cortopassi—fifth grade, Mrs. Christine Walding—PreK 3, and Mr. David Poole—Algebra.

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Bayside Academy Scout Team Wins Their Division in ROV Competition

Bayside’s team of students in grades 5–8 won in their division (the beginner/scout level) against 12 other scout teams representing the Southeast in the Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) Northern Gulf Coastal Regional ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) Competition. A total of 22 teams participated in the competition. Events took place the first weekend in May at Dauphin Island Sea Lab on Dauphin Island and at Bishop State Community College in Mobile. Two teams of Bayside students participated: the scout-level team of 5th–8th graders and a ranger-level team of Upper School students who competed at the navigator level. Teams designed and constructed an ROV frame and driver and directed the ROV to complete various tasks representing real-world applications of ROVs in the ocean. Scout team members were as follows: 5th graders Molly Hughes, Skip Postle and Devon Shows; 6th graders Maxy Dunlap, Julia Hall, Jack Hicks, Michael Klimjack, Genevieve Magli and Jack Roussos; 8th graders Colin Dunlap, Cason Lane and Peyton Phillips. Ranger team members were sophomore Elsa Engeriser and senior Parker Watts.

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BCHS Cheer Thanks Sponsor

Baldwin County High School Cheerleaders paid a visit to Gulf Packaging to thank the business for its continued support of their program. Squad sponsor Kay Lancaster presented Larry Taylor with several gifts to show their appreciation. Joining them are cheerleaders, from left, Olivia Lamb, Rachel Donald, Brooklyn Rider, Ashlynn Wasden and Kristen Phillips.

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Autauga County Schools FHS Cheerleaders Help Out at J. Larry Newton Meet the Teacher

Some of the Fairhope High School Cheerleaders helped out at J. Larry Newton’s Meet the Teacher day. Kate Bezeredi, Jenny Holmes, Emma Grace Vannoy, Leah Katherine Peacock, Alyssa Krueger, Caroline Martin, Brittany Anderson and Payton Fulkerson were all on hand to help students find their way around and to invite the children to attend their Little Pirate Cheer Clinic on September 22nd.

Bayside Academy’s National Junior Honor Society Inducts Newest Members

Bayside’s National Junior Honor Society recently inducted its newest members. New inductees are listed below. Seventh graders are as follows: Elle Brown, Samuel Carpenter, Blai Cebrian-Claramunt, Elizabeth Chen, Katie Clements, Trae Duncan, Kate Ginger, Lauren Godwin, Sarah Higginbotham, Joe Howell, Augusta Jones, Joey Jones, Ryan McCullough, Trey McKean, Beverley Milteer, Millison Mixon, Marlee Moore, Nicole Nager, Ty Postle, Leona Rindle. Eighth graders are as follows: Leo Backman, Patterson Branyon, Camille Buckner, Jackson DeLaney, Ethan Dull, Cole Komyati.

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Please Join Us For

Future Admirals Open House for Grades PK–12 Tuesday, September 25 ● 9:15 A.M. Tuesday, October 23 ● 9:15 A.M. For details, please visit www.baysideacademy.org or call 251.338.6446

303 Dryer Avenue | Daphne, AL 36526 | 251.338.6300 | www.baysideacademy.org

Bayside Academy is an independent, coeducational, college preparatory day school offering a superior educational opportunity to qualified students in grades PK—12. 28 www.easternshoreparents.com Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

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Bay Minette ES Welcomes the New School Year

Bay Minette Elementary School is off to the races as a new school year gets underway. Students returned to school welcomed by refreshed teachers, new bulletin boards, and a clean campus. Pictured, Assistant Principal, Katina SmithDavis, welcomes students Nathan Walley, Nicholas Bledsoe, and Andriana Nelson arriving on Adrienne Boeschenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bus.

Professional Development for GSES 3rd Grade Teachers

Gulf Shores Elementary 3rd grade teachers are busy learning new reading strategies to take back to the classroom. Pictured l to r: Erin Davis, Amanda McAleer, Lindie Eskew, Jennifer Schepker, Dana Guthrie and Pam McCurdy Parker.

Bayshore Christian School Receives Top Rankings

Bayshore Christian School in Fairhope recently achieved the rankings of #2 among the Best Christian High Schools in the Mobile Area and #19 among the top 25 Best Private High Schools in Alabama, as ranked by Niche.com. The ranking is based on rigorous analysis of key statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents. Ranking factors include SAT/ACT scores, the quality of colleges that students consider, student-teacher ratio, private school ratings, and more. Data sourced from the U.S. Department of Education, Niche users, and the schools directly. Bayshoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique classical, Christian education sets it apart from other private schools in the area and the state.

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Meet the Teacher at J. Larry Newton

Meet the Teacher was a day of joy and big smiles for the staff and students at J Larry Newton School! Pictured are Ms. Travis and some of her new first grade students, Ayden Frego, Oly Smith, Chandler Wesley and Dorian Malos.

Autauga County Schools Studying Science at Gulf Shores Middle School

Students at Gulf Shores Middle School learned lab safety and investigation skills in science class while trying to find Patient Zero in a viral outbreak scenario.

New Faculty at St. Michael

St. Michael welcomes new faculty for the 2018-19 academic year! L-R: Laurel Miller (French), Dr. Doug Mitchell (English), Mr. Justin Huval (Math), Mr. Simon Cortopassi (Asst. Coach - football, baseball & PE), Miss Anna Raley (History), Dr. Chris Altermatt (Biology & Health), Miss Missy Williams (PE & volleyball coach), Miss Melanie Miller (English), Mrs. Amy Smith (Spanish), Miss Helen Maduka (Theology), and Mr. Will Hester (History & Debate).

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Bayside Academy Art Students Win Big in State Art Competitions

Three Bayside students were each awarded Overall Winner in the Alabama State Council on the Arts Visual Arts Achievement Program in late April: Ashley Suchan, junior, received Overall Winner and Best of High School, District 1, for her drawing, “Braids of Time,; Ford Taylor, senior, received Overall Winner for his painting, “It’s Not Rocket Science,”; Hannah Wieland, freshman, received Overall Winner for her drawing, “Exotic Edibles.” In other art news, the Bayside students listed below placed in the Alabama Independent School Association State Art Show in late April: Elsie Hollingshead, kindergarten, Best of Show and 1st place, 3D arts/ crafts in the K5–1st grade category; Wells Simmons, 2nd grade, 3rd place, collage/mixed media in the 2nd–3rd grade category; Lilly Duffy, freshman, 1st place, color drawing in the 7th–9th grade category; Hannah Wieland, freshman, 2nd place, non-color drawing in the 7th–9th grade category; Amalie Beard, junior, 2nd place, color drawing in the 10th–12th grade category. Left photo: Bayside kindergartner Elsie Hollingshead won Best of Show and 1st place in her grade-level category for her 3D arts/crafts submission in the Alabama Independent School Association State Art Show in late April. Right photo, pictured clockwise from top left: Bayside students Ashley Suchan, Ford Taylor and Hannah Wieland were each awarded Overall Winner in the Alabama State Council on the Arts Visual Arts Achievement Program in late April. Suchan also won Best of High School, District 1.

Starting the Year off Right at Spanish Fort HS

Ms. Mason’s class at Spanish Fort High School had a fantastic start to the new school year working on communication, community building, problem solving, collaboration and building relationships.

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New Student Orientation at St. Michael Catholic School

New student orientation was held Friday, August 17 for all St. Michael Catholic High School new students. After a fun morning of meeting new faces and getting sorted into "houses", the students ended the day with ice cream treats in the cafeteria. Here are some new freshman, L R: Claire Hayes, Elle Chappell, Ally Mavar, CC McDonald & Recely Jones.

Autauga County Schools First Day at Christ the King

Welcome back! August 20 was the first day of the 2018-2019 school year at Christ the King Catholic School!

SFMS and SFEEF Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead Summer Camp for 6th Graders is a Hit!

Spanish Fort Middle School and Spanish Fort Education Enrichment Foundation teamed up to hold the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first STEAM camp this summer. Students from the class of 2025 (!) participated in either a Math and Science Track or a Creative Writing and Art track where they enjoyed hands-on experiences not replicated in their normal school curriculum. A huge benefit of camp was getting these rising 6th graders access and familiarity to their new school and new classmates. The reviews are in and the camp was everything parents and students imagined and more!

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SFHS Back to School Bash

Spanish Fort High School Project Outreach held a Back to School Bash for Mrs. Hartley and Miss Armstrongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classes.

Bayside Academy 5th Graders Win Coastal Kids Competition

Bayside Academy 5th graders recently won first place in their Coastal Kids competition. The Coastal Kids Quiz is an annual competition organized by The Project CATE Foundation, Inc. (Conservation Action Through Education) in collaboration with the Alabama Coastal Foundation. The competition is for Mobile and Baldwin County 5th graders who are interested in coastal resources, conservation and the environment. Pictured, Coastal Kids team members Elin Backman, Virginia McCrory, Halle Shilston, Devon Shows and Luke White with Carly Blankenship, Bayside 5th grade science teacher/Coastal Kids sponsor.

St. Michael Seniors Ready for a Great Year!

Seniors L - R: Josh Lynch, Maggie Lollis, Colette Murphy & Ryan Russo show off their new red senior shirts!

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Help Tweens and Teens Clean Up Their Feeds

that bolsters positive social connections, supportive relationships, and validation of their inner qualities. Encouraging your kids to see and appreciate their individual strengths has always been a part of parenting. And learning to stop comparing yourself to others is a part of growing up. By helping kids clean up their feeds, you’re bringing together two critical aspects of raising kids in the digital age. Try these tips:

You know that girl from TV -- the one whose Instagram always looks perfect even with #nofilter? Or what about that amazing singer on musical.ly whom you can’t believe is only 14? And then there’s that kid whose Snapchat stories of Coachella got 500 views. Your kids may be following people like this right now. Obsessing. Over. Every. Detail. And starting to feel kind of crappy about it. Keeping tabs on the rich, famous, and just-plain-cool is nothing new, of course. But social media can take that fixation to a pretty dark place. The feeling is common enough that some doctors are calling it social media anxiety disorder (SMAD) -although what most kids have is more like FOMO … on steroids. While it’s tough to see your kid in despair, there’s a good solution that doesn’t require an all-out social media ban: Just help your kid clean up their feed. Self-comparison is a natural part of the tween and teen years. And for most kids, so is social media. While there are plenty of good things kids get out of their online connections, sometimes the combo can lead to a negative feedback loop that gnaws away at them. Depending on whom they’re following and what’s going on in their lives, their overall self-assessment can cycle from wistful (“I wish I was like that”) to highly critical (“What’s wrong with me that I can’t be like that?”). Even for kids who know when to close their laptops and move on, their selfesteem may take a hit. And for the more self-critical, anxiety and depression are real risks. If your kid mostly enjoys social media but suffers the occasional bout of self-doubt, help them find a healthier balance. Ask if -- or what -- they’re already doing to take care of themselves. They may already be tweaking their social media feeds to limit posts that make them feel bad. Or they may be intentionally trying to curb the endless scrolling through the cool kid’s Insta. Work together to prune out the parts of their social media feeds that trap them into judgy comparisons, and encourage the stuff Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

Identify the triggers. Maybe it’s a certain couple who always look happy and in love, when your kid really wants a romantic relationship. Maybe it’s ads from a dog-toy delivery service that makes your kid miss your old mutt. Explore what’s behind their emotions. Sharing your own FOMO-induced feelings will likely get your kid to open up. Once they recognize the cause of their emotions, they can take steps to manage triggers. Fine-tune levels of engagement. All social media offers ways to see and hear less from your contacts -- without totally unfriending them. Check out settings such as these from popular platforms like Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, and Twitter: unfollow (you’re still friends, but their posts won’t show up in your feed); hide post (see fewer posts from someone); snooze (temporarily stop seeing posts); mute (turn them off for a while); and do not disturb (temporarily block the person). Turn off notifications. Most social media apps send updates -- and none of them are life-and-death. To prevent your kid from interruptions -- especially ones that might trigger negative thoughts -- you can encourage your kid to check their social media once or twice at a certain time of day -- say, 4 p.m. That might be a stretch, but you can still encourage them to turn off notifications either in the app itself or on their phone. Follow people who nourish your soul. Kim Kardashian may be all over social media, but there are lots of folks who post uplifting, life-affirming, thoughtful, inspiring things that get kids thinking -- and maybe even behaving -- in ways that make them feel good about themselves. Follow these kinds of people. Suggest apps to help with focus. Just as you can use technology to excess, you can use it to rein yourself in. These productivity apps help keep kids on task, boost concentration, and remind you to stop doing stuff that’s not good for you. 34

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Time to Climb

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

From the moment a baby first strives to pull themselves up to their feet, the desire to ascend is ignited. It’s only a matter of months before toddlers clamor to climb, and so it goes as they grow. For kids, the climb comes with more than just a sense of adventure. Using both arms and legs, as well as the body’s core, the mechanics of climbing are ideal for conditioning muscle, improving coordination and cultivating good balance. The following items bring opportunities to climb closer to home for kids who want to aim high and reach higher.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Rock Climbing Holds

Triangle Rope Ladder

Transform a sturdy wall surface into a distinctive climb challenge with Squirrel Products’ twenty piece set of Rock Climbing Holds. With just enough protrusion for small hands to grip and little feet to perch, climbing walls offer kids a unique combination of physical and mental challenges with multiple options for ascent. Climbers can choose from simple paths upward or plot more varied journeys from base to summit. Complete with multicolored molded plastic holds and zinc-plated mounting hardware, this kit makes planning and building your own rock wall challenge is fast and easy. Creating a unique rock face for novices, these Rock Climbing Holds are custom made for creative climbing.

Whether you need an ascent to a treehouse or want to add a cool climbing challenge to your play environment, the Triangle Rope Ladder gets high marks. Constructed with heavy duty wooden dowels and thick, black braided rope, this ladder is sturdy with a 155 pound capacity. The single swing hanger attachment allows for slight pivoting action while three ground anchors maintain a secure main position. Offering climbing opportunities on both the outside and the interior of the triangle, the exploratory potential of this climber is doubled as well. Much like navigating up the shifting rigging of a tall ship, the Triangle Rope Ladder from Swing-n-Slide adds a sense of challenge and adventure that will keep kids climbing strong..

Climbing Rope Swing

Rope Tunnel Bridge

(Swing-n-Slide)

(Squirrel Products)

(Hearthsong)

Climbing isn’t always an uphill battle. The Rope Tunnel Bridge from Hearthsong puts a horizontal twist into the climb. With a cargo netting surround supported by super strong nylon ropes, the tunnel can be suspended in a variety of angles from level bridging to an inclined climb. Heavy duty ratchets allow for suspension of the eight foot bridge between longer spans of up to seventeen feet. Whether the tunnel is bridging between two destinations or hanging independently as an activity within a play space, the shifting movement and plentiful gripping surfaces ensures that kids navigate in ways that build strength, balance and physical confidence. Hearthsong’s Rope Tunnel Bridge is an exciting gateway to new climbing destinations!

(Jungle Gym Kingdom) Coupled with a disc base for sitting or standing, the Jungle Gym Kingdom’s Climbing Rope Swing offers extra incentive to move up in the world. The strong weather-resistant polyethylene rope offers a strong, non-abrasive core for small hands and legs to navigate. Featuring four-inch textured intervals along its length, kids have tempting holds and grips right at their fingertips to lure them higher. Familiar and simple, the climbing rope remains one of the most deceptively useful items in the play yard tool box as kids bring all their physical strength, coordination and balance to bear on one task - climbing the rope!

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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Spouse won’t follow the plan Q. What can someone do if they can’t convince their spouse to begin planning and saving? I’ve tried for years to persuade my wife to join me in following your plan, but I can’t get her to start thinking about our financial future and stop living in the moment.

A. It sounds like your wife, for whatever reason, is not willing to pay a price for a short period of time. I’m sorry to say it, but that kind of thinking is a one-way ticket to a lifetime of mediocrity. If you’re unwilling to pay a price to win, then you’re going to end up paying the price that comes with never having paid a price. In essence, you’re asking me how to get her to grow up. I’m not sure there’s a way to convince her at this point. If she’s not willing to delay getting or doing things she wants, that’s a sign of immaturity. You can’t change that within another person. It must be a conscious, willing decision on their part.

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

Maybe you could try letting her know that being careful with your money and planning for the future doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun. It just means you may have to delay certain things for a little while. My wife and I do and have lots of cool things now, because we saved like crazy and sacrificed years ago. We lived like no one else, so now we’re able to live like no one else. In other words, we paid a price to win!

A burden to help? Q. Do you believe the adult child of a senior citizen, who is physically and mentally healthy but has neglected to plan for retirement, should be burdened with providing financial assistance to that parent?

A. Based on the wording in your question, I can only believe you don’t think the adult

child should be “burdened” to provide this assistance. My guess is you’re talking about one of your own parents. I understand that you might be aggravated with a parent who has been irresponsible with their money. But in my mind, there’s a bigger question. How big is the burden? I talked to a guy recently who was making $1.5 million a year. He was questioning whether he should help his dad — an older man in poor health, who didn’t handle his money well — by giving him $1,000 a month. There’s no question you give that guy money. But if you bring home $2,000 a month, and your family is barely getting by, you’re not morally required to financially take care of a parent who was irresponsible with their money.

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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 Therapy Services at (251) 279-1640 with questions or to make a referral.

Make meal times A free workshop for parents of picky eaters

Thomas Medical Center, Daphne Tuesday, Oct. 2 • 5:30 – 7 p.m. Discussions include:

• Make challenging foods appealing • How to introduce new foods • Determine picky vs. complex eater Finding interventions for:

• Complex feeders (pre-existing conditions) • Medical complications • Oral motor weakness

PRESENTERS: • Amber Miller, MS, OTR/L Thomas Hospital Therapy Services • Grayson Hill, MS, CCC-SLP University of South Alabama Speech and Hearing Center

Light refreshments provided

Seating is limited – RSVP by Sept. 21 Thomas Hospital Therapy Services 251-279-3643 5691_TH_InfirmaryTherapyServices_Special_Needs_Expo_Ad_7x4.8_Aug_2018_v1.indd 1

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One thing parents and kids should realize is that those with LDs are often average or above average in intelligence. In fact, it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t uncommon for a child with a learning disability to excel in one subject, while struggling in another. Or perhaps a child does well under certain conditions while in other situations having great difficulty. Though depending on the LD and severity of it, a child might struggle in all areas.

Approximately 10% of American school-age children suffer from a learning disability (LD) and/or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s estimated

Forms of learning disabilities

that 4% of children have both. But for many

There are several forms of LDs. Some pose input problems, which means a child struggles with either sound or visual input. Information isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t processed correctly or gets stored incorrectly in the brain. This can pose problems with retrieval as well as short or long-term memory. An LD can also cause output problems. This can sometimes be seen in motor skills such as handwriting difficulties. Another common problem is verbal output. This is usually evident in that the child has trouble organizing

children, these disorders go undetected despite ongoing struggles with school work and behavior issues that often accompany these disorders. Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

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thoughts either in writing or orally. Punctuation, grammar, and spelling also often suffer.

Visual Processing Disorders (VPD) are also a problem with input. Similarly, they aren’t a vision problem. Rather, VPD is a problem with the brain processing what the eyes see. It can result in a child bumping into things or not being able to distinguish the shapes they see. It can also pose difficulty in identifying letters or numbers or result in problems with visual sequencing among other symptoms.

Dyscalculia is a math learning disability. With this disorder, children have may have difficulty learning to tell time, counting money or counting in general, learning math facts, calculating, understanding measurement, or performing mental math. Dyslexia is a reading disability, though the symptoms are not exclusive to reading. Children with this disorder may have difficulty with spelling, vocabulary, or comprehension. They may read slow, have trouble learning left from right, or have organizational problems both with written and spoken language.

Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NLD) is similar to Asperger Syndrome and shows up as difficulties with social skills. Academic problems are sometimes present as well but often don’t show up until kids reach higher grade levels. Those with NLD may be afraid of new situations, struggle to make friends, lack common sense, and experience social withdrawal. Academic problems can include reading comprehension and working out math story problems.

Dysgraphia is a writing disability. Poor handwriting and often an awkward style of holding a pencil or even contorting the body while writing are hallmarks. A child may also have trouble drawing lines. With dysgraphia, children can often better express their understanding of material through speech than in writing.

ADHD is marked by attention problems and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity. Girls often have only attention issues while boys are more commonly impulsive or hyperactive. Symptoms can include difficulty staying on task or paying attention yet often hyperfocusing on stimulating activity. Children with ADHD may fidget or have trouble staying seated, interrupt, and act without thinking.

Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is a problem with input. It isn’t a problem with hearing but rather the brain has difficulty processing sounds. As a result, kids with APD may be distracted by loud noise or have difficulty following conversations. It tends to be especially problematic when there’s a lot of background noise which makes it difficult to distinguish sounds.

The symptoms listed above for each of the LDs aren’t exhaustive. To learn more, visit Learning Disabilities Association of America https://ldaamerica.org/types-of-learning-disabilities/.

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What to do if you suspect your child has an LD or ADHD The first step is to talk with your child’s teacher, and find out what the teacher has observed. Then talk to the school principal, and request an evaluation. Public schools are required by law to provide an evaluation. This should include an IQ test, assessments of math, reading, and writing, and testing processing skills. If your child is in a private school and the private school doesn’t offer this service, you can request it through your public school district. Once your child has received a diagnosis, your school psychologist should be able to recommend and help you set up services or accommodations for your child. Depending on the specific learning disability, your child may qualify for special education services under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or accommodations through Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Bear in mind, you are your child’s best advocate. So read books and articles on your child’s LD and learn how you and your school can help. Talk to your child’s teacher about additional ways the teacher can assist your child. Most teachers are eager to help, though depending on student ratio and school resources, it’s sometimes challenging for teachers to do as much as they’d like because they likely have other children with special needs in the classroom as well. If you feel your child isn’t getting the help he or she needs, talk to the school administrator. ESP

Kimberly Blaker is the author of a kid’s STEM book, Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery? containing fun experiments to help kids understand the scientific method and develop critical thinking skills.

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

The Power of a Good Question Most parents can agree that talking to a teenager sometimes feels like pulling teeth. You try to engage in conversation with your teen, and all you receive in response are grunts, eye-rolls, or oneword answers. You try everything you can to drag information out of your son or daughter, but the harder you pull, the deeper they dig in their heels. The conversation becomes a stressful game of tug-of-war, and after ten minutes of trying to pull words out of your child’s mouth, you’re exhausted and ready to quit. Can I suggest a different strategy? The power of a good question is remarkably effective in the hands of a parent. Think about it from your own point-of-view. When someone asks for your opinion, you feel valued. You feel appreciated. You feel like you’ll be listened too. When asked in a non-condemning and non-prying way, a good question conveys a sense of worth and relationship that is unparalleled by any other action a parent can make. When you ask your teen what they think, you’re letting them know you have an interest in them and that their opinion has significance to you. A good question can also act like an X-ray into the heart and mind of your teen. Most kids in high school will not voluntary give insights into what they’re thinking or doing, especially if they feel like they’ll be judged or criticized by mom or dad. But ask a question aimed at understanding your teen’s thoughts and feelings about a subject, and you’ll naturally draw out an honest report on where they are spiritually, emotionally, or mentally. As parents, it’s easy to observe what’s happening to our kids on the outside, but to see what’s happening on the inside, we need a good question. If we don’t ask questions, we could be missing serious, hidden situations in the life of their teen. Let me offer a few tips for asking good questions: Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

Avoid simple “yes” or “no” questions.

If your teen could answer with “yep”, try to find a way to phrase the question that makes a complete sentence necessary. Try to ask “who, what, when, where, or how” questions that inspire further thought. Find out what your son thinks about an issue, how your daughter would do something differently than you, where he would go, and why she thinks a certain way. Talk about controversial subjects as you would a friend or co-worker for whom you have respect. I can almost guarantee you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what comes out of your child’s mouth.

Ask questions, but don’t give answers until you’re asked yourself. Stop lectur-

ing and start listening. A Sunday school teacher once asked the ten-year-old in her class, “What’s wrong with grown-ups?” A boy responded, “Grown-ups never really listen because they already know what they’re going to answer.” Your teens won’t be ready to listen until they become the initiator of a discussion, so just hush and get out of the way and let them take the lead. As moms and dads, we want our teens to carefully think about their decisions before they act. You can help them along by stimulating their developing minds and hearts. Ask good questions that stoke a teen’s thought process. For example, take the recent trend of young female musicians pushing the envelope. Ask your teen daughter about her thoughts on the issue. Are these young artists simply being creative? What message are they projecting? Do their actions help or hurt them? You’re preparing them to approach situations and ideas with a wise heart and mind.

Watch your body language. Whether

your question succeeds or not depends not only on what you say, but how you say it! What is your face, your hands, your entire demeanor telling your teen? Are you 44

inviting your child to open up, or is your body language shouting, “keep quiet”? A good way to prevent hostile body language is to avoid asking questions when you’re overly angry, disappointed, or upset. When you’re in a bad mood, what comes out are phrases like, “Do you know how stupid that was? What were you thinking? Or “How could you?” Instead, take time to cool down and find a nice, quiet place to engage your teen in conversation. Stay relaxed and aware of the messages you are sending through your tone, posture, and volume of your voice.

Ask questions that develop your kid’s opinions, and not your own. Our job

as parents is not to recreate our minds and beliefs in our children’s lives. While this might be appropriate when they are young, as teenagers we need to train them to start thinking critically, to apply what they have been taught to the situations and circumstances in their own lives. They need to develop their own thoughts and feelings and learn to process them. Sometimes you empower teens to apply the values you taught them just by asking questions. Your questions might also encourage your teens to ask questions of you. And if they do start asking questions, they might be inviting you to a dark and shameful corner of their world. Don’t be afraid to go there! If a teen shares what is on her heart, but you’re more concerned with fixing her problems or telling her how to act than with listening, that teen will eventually quit sharing. Find opportunities to let your teen talk, even if they seem a bit forced at first. Eventually, with diligence on your part, your teen will again learn to trust their dreams, thoughts and questions with you.

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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Having a sibling with special needs is a unique experience that provides both challenges and benefits. While there is no doubt that they love their sibling with special needs, the feelings that can arise during childhood are often complicated. The love, appreciation, and compassion they feel towards their sibling can be mixed up with jealousy, worry, resentment, fear, responsibility, and anger. Parents who are in tune to their childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feelings can help them work through the negative emotions and turn these challenges into benefits.

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

www.easternshoreparents.com

Challenge: Insensitivity of others Unfortunately, kids with special needs are often the target of teasing. Kids, or even adults, that don’t understand other people’s differences may make insensitive comments, ask inappropriate questions, or just make fun of someone who is different from them. Siblings of special needs kids may feel the need to constantly stand up for their sibling, explain their situation to others, or may be the brunt of teasing themselves. “One of the biggest challenges in growing up with my sister was watching her get laughed at.” says Justin Lyons, brother of Kara, who has cerebral palsy. Parents can help their kids work through this challenge by equipping them with the right answers for those awkward questions and teach them how to handle bullying in an appropriate way.

Benefit: Development of dependability, loyalty, and compassion After years of watching someone they love get teased, siblings of special needs kids will naturally develop a strong sense of loyalty to those they care about as well as a strong compassion towards others.

Even though watching Kara get teased was hard for Justin, he also notes, “I think it made me less likely to laugh at or tease other people.” Kids who grow up in a home with a special needs sibling typically become dependable, compassionate, and loyal adults.

Challenge: Jealousy Parents do their best to treat their children fairly and spend equal amounts of time caring for each child. When you have a child with developmental delays or significant medical needs that balance can become extremely difficult to achieve and jealousy can develop. Kids may feel they get less attention or that their parents spend more time caring for the sibling. When these feelings develop it is very common for kids to feel guilty that they have these thoughts, causing them to be more upset and resentful. As a parent, try to be understanding and patient about your child’s jealous feelings. Talking it through and having someone listen and take them seriously will help your child feel loved and included. If possible and appropriate, welcome your child to join you in caring for the sibling, but don’t push the issue.

Benefit: Self control and thoughtfulness First, it is important to remember that sibling rivalry and feelings of jealousy are normal in any sibling relationship. As your child learns to wait for their parent to be free to help them, they will learn patience and self control. They will also learn to put other’s needs before their own.

Challenge: Worry and fear When children are around a sibling with serious medical challenges, lowered immunity, or special needs, kids may feel worried or afraid about the health of their sibling. They may not be able to express their feelings the same way that an adult would. Kids may act out, become overly emotional, or appear aloof to what is going on around them. Parents can help kids by being honest about health concerns in an age appropriate way. By including your child in this discussion, you can reduce their fear of the unknown and reassure them as well.

Benefit: Develop compassion and empathy for others Kids who are exposed to someone with medical and developmental

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challenges naturally become more compassionate and empathetic to those who may have their own struggles. “I attribute my sense of understanding and compassion to group up with my sister.” says Michelle Hupp, sister to Felicia, an adult with Down Syndrome.

help to support your child’s development in a healthy way and encourage an appropriate relationship between your children.

Benefit:

Challenge: Complicated and mixed feelings As each person is different, kids have a variety of feelings related to their sibling with special needs. Some kids may feel pressure to “live up” to their parents’ expectations for themselves and for the sibling that may never reach certain milestones. Kids may also feel resentment, anger, frustration, or like they are “missing out” on activities or experiences because their sibling’s care puts restrictions on certain activities. “Siblings often feel guilty about any negative feeling such as jealousy.” says Hupp. “The

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

rewards more than outweigh the negatives but sometimes the negatives are hard to talk about.” None of these feelings are fun to talk about and often result in guilt causing the children to feel even more resentment to the sibling because they have these negative feelings. Some of these feelings may be difficult to overcome and a parent may not know exactly what their child is feeling or how to deal with them. If you feel that these feelings are becoming a problem, consider seeking professional

A variety of positive characteristics develop While all of these challenges are realistic, kids also develop a wide variety of wonderful characteristics from their experience such as kindness, patience, compassion, acceptance of differences, helpfulness, and empathy. All of these qualities are wonderful and valued in our society. Being a sibling of a special needs person is a unique and sometimes challenging experience but most people will tell you they have benefitted from the experience. As a parent, it helps to think of the long term benefits and help your child shape their challenges into successes. ESP Sarah Lyons is a contributing writer.

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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.

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 2018 senior class earned $10 million in merit-based scholarships and scored a composite 29.7 on the ACT.

Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Start your online application September 1, 2018 at www.asms.net.

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 admissions@asms.net

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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.

(251) 298-7346 info@john93foundation.com www.john93foundation.com

MobileArc

Alabama Resources Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network

1856 Keats Drive , Huntsville, AL 35810 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. (866) RESTALA info@alabamarespite.org www.alabamarespite.org

Alabama Special Education Services

50 North Ripley Street , Montgomery, AL 36104 Through leadership and service, the vision of Special Education Services (SES) is to foster positive educational outcomes for all students with special needs.? (334) 242-9700 vm@alsde.edu www.alsde.edu

ALL KIDS Insurance

201 Monroe Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Low-cost, comprehensive healthcare coverage program for children under age 19. Benefits include regular checkups and immunizations, sick child doctor visits, prescriptions, vision/dental care, hospitalization, mental health, substance abuse services, and more. (888) 373-5437 ALLKids@adph.state.al.us www.alabamapublichealth.gov/allkids

Civitan International Research Center

1719 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294 An interdisciplinary center focusing on the development of the mind-brain through education and research. Our mission is to improve the well-being and quality of life for individuals and families affected by intellectual and developmental disabilities. (205) 934-8900

www.uab.edu/medicine/circ

Governor’s Office on Disabilities

602 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Visit website for excellent resources and information concerning disability issues. Join email list for updates.

(888) 879-3582 or (334) 293-7228 marlene.word@good.alabama.gov www.good.alabama.gov

John 9:3 Foundation

22787 US Hwy 98, (Building A), Fairhope, AL 36532 Our foundation works to aid and assist those who are Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

2424 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 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 Atlanta , GA This Center provides information, training, and guidance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and disability access tailored to the needs of business, government, and individuals. Serving Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee. (800) 949-4232 ADAsoutheast@law.syr.edu www.adasoutheast.org

Speech and Hearing Association of Alabama

Resources for consumers online. Our mission is to make continuing education and other services available to speech and hearing professionals, in order to maintain the high quality of therapy provided in our state. (205) 823-6106 Info@AlabamaSHAA.org www.alabamashaa.org

STAR (Statewide Technology Access and Response)

STAR is a resource to provide Alabamians free access to information, referral services, educational programs, and publications in accessible format on extensive topics related to disability rights, laws/policies, and funding opportunities for assistive technology. (800) 782-7656 www.rehab.alabama.gov/individuals-andfamilies/star www.rehab.alabama.gov/individuals-andfamilies/star

Vocational Rehabilitation-Department of Rehabilitation Services

The department’s largest division, VRS provides specialized employment- and education-related services and training to assist teens and adults with disabilities in becoming employed. (800) 671-6842

www.rehab.alabama.gov

Counseling Center for Calm Living

150 South Church Street, Fairhope, AL 36532 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. Dr. David Kantra, Augusta Kantra, MS, LPC and Dr. Lacy Kantra. (251) 928-5363

www.centerforcalmliving.com

Crossway Counseling Center, Inc.

27625 U.S. Hwy 98 (Building A), Daphne, AL 36526 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. (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, conduct and emotional problems with adolescents. (251) 625-6448 barryswope@mediacombb.net www.focalpointcounseling.com

Professional Counseling Associates Eastern Shore Counseling

29000 US Hwy 98 (Suite A102), Daphne, AL 36526 Faith based counseling services includes AD/HD screenings, anxiety, relationships and depression. (251) 626-5797 info@easternshorecounseling.com www.easternshorecounseling.com

Stephanie Wright Williamson, LLC

7 South Summit Street, Fairhope, AL Helping individuals, families and children support each other in every stage of life. Counseling services with Asperger’s, ADHD, OCD, teen violence, parenting, family conflict, substance abuse, depression. (251) 379-0531 burlsandwoo@gmail.com

The Centre

1290 Main Street (Suite B), Daphne, AL 36526 The Centre provides help for individual and family problems from highly trained clinicians who pull from a wide range of clinical expertise to provide comprehensive care to each individual served. (251) 625-0118

www.thecounselingcentre.com

University of South Alabama Psychology Clinic

307 University Blvd N (UCOM 2000), Mobile, AL 36608 As a training clinic for the USA Clinical and Counseling Psychology doctoral training program, we offer low-cost services for children, adults, and families, including psychological testing and counseling, martial counseling, and stress management. (251) 460-7149 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/artsandsci/psychology

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Specific Resources - ADDADHD Dr. Renee Lopez, D.C. Advanced Health Solutions ad on page 83

401 North Section Street, Fairhope, AL 36532 Neurofeedback, Functional Nutrition, Lab Analysis, Chiropractic, Oxygen Therapy and more. Locations in Fairhope and Mobile. (251) 928-5058

www.YourAdvancedHealthSolutions.com

Attention Deficit Disorder Assoc. (ADDA)

Information resources and network opportunities to help adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder lead better lives. (800) 939-1019 info@add.org www.add.org

Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders (CHADD)

Provides support and education 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 chadd.org www.chadd.org

affiliate-services@

Feingold Association of the United States

11849 Suncatcher Drive, Fishers, IN 46037 Helping families introduce low-additive dietary programs for children with learning/behavior problems and chemically sensitive adults. (631) 369-9340 help@feingold.org www.feingold.org

Focus MD

28080 US Highway 98 (Suite F), Daphne, AL 36526 A medical practice for kids and young people with AD/HD and related problems. Focus MD provides objective testing, medical treatment as well as behavior modification strategies. (251) 517-9025

www.adhddaphne.com

Focus-MD, Inc.

2560 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36607 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 provides objective testing, medical treatment and behavior modification strategies. (251) 378-8635

www.focus-md.com

Specific Resources Autism

(251) 210-1632 info@americanautismcenter.com www.Americanautismcenter.com

American Hyperbaric Center ad on page 9

8871 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 A premier Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) treatment facility. HBOT reduces inflammation, promote healing, repair cells and heal wounds as well as treating symptoms of 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 info@americanhbot.com www.AmericanHBOT.com

Autism Diagnostics Clinic -

American Autism and Rehabilitation Center ad on page 9

Aspergers, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, etc.

USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital Pediatric Developmental Medicine ad on Inside Front Cover

8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 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 help to patients and families with children that have special needs such as Autism,

1601 Center Street (Suite 1F), Mobile, AL 36604 Improving the lives of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders through early identification and diagnosis, as well as providing education to families, physicians, daycare centers, churches and other organizations who serve children in the community. Services include: Medical Assessments, Cognitive Evaluation, Speech/ Language Evaluation, Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and Assistance with Community Resources.

(251) 410-5437 www.usahealthsystem.com/autism-diagnosis

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Autism Society of Alabama ad on page 12

205 Lambert Avenue (Suite C), Mobile, AL 36604 Our mission is to improve services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families through education and advocacy. Current programs and services offered include, Information and Referral Specialist, Online Resource Directory, Family Camps, 33 Network Support Groups in counties statewide, innovative website, Roadmap for transition resources, Respite Program to give caretakers a break, Carebinders program for caretakers and families, First Responder Trainings, Conferences and Sensory Friendly Activities. See our listing for Sibshops in this directory.

(251) 259-5553 or (877) 4AUTISM info@autism-alabama. org www.autism-alabama.org

Alabama Autism & Aspergerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Statewide Info & Support Network A hub for Autism related info, events, videos, & support. Free Resources, Guidance, Rights & Connections. Formerly called Blount County Autism. alabamaautism@gmail.com www.alabamaautism.org

Alabama Learning Exchange (ALEX)

50 North Ripley Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Multimedia, learning activities, lessons, and unit plans connected by Alabama College and Career Ready Standards (CCRS) to promote deeper-learning competencies essential for success in college, careers, and our global society. (334) 242-9594

www.alex.state.al.us

Autism Society of America

Providing advocacy, education, referral informtiaon, and community support at national, state and local lev-

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

els through our strong nationwide network of Affiliates. Our contact center is open Monday through Friday from 9am - 9pm. (800) 328-8476 info@autism-society.org www.autism-society.org

Autism Speaks

We are dedicated to funding research for 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 familyservices@autismspeaks.org www.autismspeaks.org

Sacred Heart Autism Center

5154 Bayou Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32503 Services for children on the autism spectrum, with a family-centered approach using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. ABA is a research-based, systematic method for improving socially significant skills and behaviors. We also offer parent instruction and hands-on training, social skills groups for various ages, and group training for families and professionals. (850) 416-4681 soman@ascension.org or kelsey.sanchez@ascension.org www.sacred-heart.org/Autism

TACA (Talk About Curing Autism)

TACA is a national non-profit 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. (949) 640-4401 or (855) 726-7810

www.tacanow.org

Specific Resources CdLS

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CdLS Foundation (Cornelia de Lange Syndrome)

302 West Main Street (#100), Avon, CT 6001 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.

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(800) 753-2357 info@cdlsusa.org www.cdlsusa.org

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Camp Smile

3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile, AL 36607 A residential summer camp for individuals with disabilities from 5 - 50 years old and their siblings. 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! (251) 479-4900 campsmile@ucpmobile.org www.campsmilemobile.org

Cerebral Palsy.org

Resources 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

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center provides parents and caregivers non-legal help, information, guidance and extra resources. (800) 692-4453 contactus@mychildwithcp.com www.cerebralpalsy.org

United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile

3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile, AL 36607 We are 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 lluckie@ucpmobile.org www.ucpmobile.org

Specific Resources Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Mobile Chapter

200 Office Park Dr (Suite 115), Birmingham, AL 35223 The worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leader in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis. We fund more CF research than any other organization, and nearly every CF drug available today was made possible because of Foundation support.

drome, their families and the greater community. (888) 454-0317 downsyndromealbama@gmail.com www.dssmobile.org

Renaissance School ad on page 73

10526 County Road 64, Daphne, AL 36526 Renaissance School of the Eastern Shore, where imagination and individuality meet the classroom. We offer a full curriculum school for grade levels K-8. Classes are structured for students to flourish in a small group setting. All subject areas are taught using an integrated, multi-sensory approach while meeting state standards. Full Curriculum Non-Profit School, Grade Levels K-8. Dyslexia Therapy and Tutoring. (251) 990-0041 admin@esrenaissance.org www.esrenaissance.org

Down Syndrome Alabama

1929 Canyon Road, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 We promote awareness, acceptance and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome of all ages.

academic therapy for students with language based learning disabilities. We offer instruction in the following areas: reading, spelling, written expression, handwriting, grammar, math, and technology. We have special programs for homeschooled students and preschoolers. We have Coachesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Club at Read Write, offering subject based coaching, teamwork coaching and homework conditioning for all students 4th-12th. www.readwritelearningcenter.com

Dyslexia Therapy Referrals

Gulf Shores, Elberta, Daphne, Please contact Holli Hinton, M.Ed., CALT, CDT, for references to private Dyslexia Therapist in the areas of Gulf Shores, Elberta and Daphne. (601) 319-9332 sail506@aol.com

Specific Resources Epilepsy Epilepsy Foundation

8301 Professional Place East (Suite 200), Landover, MD 20785 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.

(205) 870-8565 alabama@cff.org www.cff.org/Alabama

(205) 988-0810 downsyndromealbama@gmail.com www.downsyndromealabama.org

Specific Resources Down Syndrome

Specific Resources Dyslexia

Down Syndrome Society of Mobile

Read Write Learning Center

(800) 332-1000 ContactUs@efa.org www.epilepsyfoundation.org

Mobile, AL Our mission is to provide enrichment through education, networking opportunities, advocacy, and emotional support for individuals with Down syn-

(251) 625-4020 baldwinoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com

Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama

ad on page 19

1048 Stanton Road, Suite G, Daphne, AL 36526 15 Midtown Park West, Mobile, AL 36606

(251) 287-1822 mobileoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com

Educational consulting, testing, and one-on-one

3929 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36609 We offer education and support for those with epilepsy and their families and facilitate prevention and

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

management. This includes providing services and programs for individuals and families; education and community awareness; advocacy for epilepsy issues and collaborating with other community resources in support of the mission of the people with seizure disorders. (251) 341-0170 or (800) 626-1582 alabama@efa.org www.efala.org

Specific Resources Tourette Syndrome Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Mobile Chapter, Inc.

1453 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36604 The Association works closely with the Alabama Department of Public Health, USA Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, Franklin Primary Health Center, local county health departments, and the Guadalupe Center. (251) 432-0301 info@scdmobile.org www.scdmobile.org

Tourette Association of America

A non-profit organization working to make life better for all people affected by Tourette and Tic Disorders. (888) 486-8738 support@tourette.org www.tourette.org

Specific Resources ADD-ADHD Focus-MD, Inc.

2560 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36607 A medical practice for kids and young people with AD/HD and related problems. Dr. James Wiley

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

started FOCUS MD so that he would have more time to devote to the diagnosis and treatment of these patients. Focus provides objective testing, medical treatment and behavior modification strategies. (251) 378-8635

www.focus-md.com

Specific Resources Muscular Dystrophy Alabama Muscular Dystrophy Association

700 Century Park S (#225), Birmingham, AL 35226 MDA is a 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

Specific Resources Spina Bifida Spina Bifida Association of Alabama

Birmingham, AL 35202 To develop and provide current information about Spina Bifida and promote public awareness as well as advocate for educational, vocational and community support. (256) 617-1414 info@sbaofal.org www.sbaofal.org

Financial Resources Enable Savings Plan Alabama ad on page 11

Nationwide tax-exempt savings accounts for individuals with disabilities. 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. 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 Treasurerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office, the State of Nebraska Treasurerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office and First National Bank of Omaha. (866) 833-7949 clientservices@enableal.com www.EnableAL.com

Family Support

1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 We help families in South Alabama by offering emotional support, information, referrals, flexible financial assistance, and special project assistance, all provided through local area volunteer councils. An area council member must be an adult with a disability or a family member of a child with a disability. This results in a low-cost resource for families to help others facing the same issues. (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

www.easternshoreparents.com

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Medicaid Waiver Program

2800 Dauphin Street (Suite 105), Mobile, AL 36606 A comprehensive program of long term care services that offers eligible patients care, choices and opportunities for services at home or in the community. Support 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. Serving Baldwin, Clarke, Escambia, Mobile and Washington counties. (866) 371-4078 or (251) 472-4365 rhonda.peters@medicaid.alabama.gov www.medicaid.alabama.gov

NORD (National Organization for Rare Disorders)

55 Kenosia Avenue, Danbury, CT 6810 NORD is 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

P.O. Box 209 , Montrose, AL 36559 The Foundation is dedicated to the mission of assisting families of children who have special medical needs. Families who qualify for benefits receive assistance to help pay for costs associated with the care of these children. Applicants are reviewed by a medical panel and may be eligible for benefits once per calendar year.

Hundreds of applicants are reviewed annually and this number continues to grow. Nearly all the funding to support this foundation is generated by a single fundraising event called the Angel Ride. Our annual Angel Ride fundraising event will be held on Saturday, October 27, 2018 at Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope. (251) 367-1981 info@angel-ride.com www.angel-ride.org/thefoundation

General Resources

(251) 450-2211 or (888) 335-3044 www.baypointehospital.org

AltaPointe Health - Children’s

Outpatient Services (Baldwin County)

BayView Professional Associates

ad on page 42

201 East Camphor Avenue, Foley, AL 36535 (251) 450-2211 or (888) 335-3044

ad on page 42

www.altapointe.org

372 South Greeno Road, Fairhope, AL 36532 (251) 990-4248

www.altapointe.org

2009 Medical Center Drive, Bay Minette, AL 36507 (251) 450-2211 or (251) 937-2010

www.altapointe.org

Our services provide treatment for children and teens ages 3-19, and their families, with the ultimate goal of helping them maintain stability in the community. AltaPointe uses state-of-the-art, evidence-based practices. We 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.

BayPointe Hospital ad on page 42

5800 Southland Drive, Mobile, AL 36693 A free-standing psychiatric hospital specializing in

child and adolescent acute inpatient and long-term residential care. Located in west Mobile on a beautiful 15-acre campus, it offers short-term crisis stabilization and long-term treatment in a residential setting for ages 5-18. Often these children have suffered from abuse, neglect or substance abuse, and an intervention is desperately needed. They may be disruptive, sometimes uncontrollable, exhibiting suicidal, aggressive or other unsafe behaviors and can no longer function in their homes and community settings. Many factors must be considered before admission is appropriate.

374 South Greeno Road, Fairhope, AL 36532 1015 Montlimar Drive (Suite A-210), Mobile, AL 36609 A confidential and supportive, solution-focused counseling for 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 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

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Cassady & Cassady ad on page 21

21 South Section Street, Fairhope, AL 36532 Every child is entitled by law to an appropriate education and adequate gains in the classroom. We assist in eligibility, prepare you for IEP team meetings, obtain independent evaluations, and advocate for your legal rights with Autism, Multiple Disabilities, Deaf-Blindness, Orthopedic Impairment, Developmental Delay, Other Health Impairment, Emotional Disability, Specific Learning Disability, Speech or Language Impairment, Hearing Impairment, Traumatic Brain Injury, Intellectual Disability, Visual Impairment. Confidential mediation and confidential due process determinations available. (251) 207-7000

www.specialeducationlawyeralabama.com

4 Paws for Ability

253 Dayton Avenue, Xenia, Ohio 45385 We train and place quality, task-trained service dogs t those with disabilities. 4 Paws also works with veterans who’ve lost the use of limbs or hearing while in active combat. (937) 374-0385 Info@4PawsForAbility.org www.4pawsforability.org

Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities 100 North Union Street, Montgomery, AL 36130 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 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, and 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 supports and services for infants and toddlers birth though age 2 (0 to 36 months of age) who have a medical diagnosis that can delay normal development or who have a developmental delay causing the child to not meet developmental milestones. 2) Children’s Rehabilitation Service (CRS) CRS District Office - 1610 Center Street Suite A, Mobile (251) 432-4560, Toll-free number: (800) 879-8163, TTY (800) 499-1816 Children’s Rehabilitation Service (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. This network provides specialty clinic and other services by physicians, nurses, social workers, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, audiologists, occupational therapists, registered dietitians, secretaries, and administrators. 3) Vocational Rehabilitation Service (VRS) 2419 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile (251) 479-8611, Toll-free number: (800) 671-6842, TTY: (800) 499-1816. 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 educationrelated services and training to assist teens and adults with disabilities in becoming employed. 4) State of Alabama Independent Living / Homebound Service (SAIL) 2419 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile (251) 479-8611, Toll-free number: (888) 388-3245,

TTY: (800) 499-1816 The State of Alabama Independent Living / Homebound Service (SAIL) provides specialized in-home education and counseling, attendant care, training and medical services to Alabamians with severe disabilities. (800) 441-7607

www.rehab.alabama.gov

Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program

We are a 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 www.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

www.aidb.org

Alabama Scottish Rite Learning Center

555 Eastern Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36117 Offering free dyslexia evaluations for Alabama children in 1st - 8th grade. The minimum age for testing is 7 years old. Also offerring free professional development for teachers in Alabama. (205) 365-1640 or (251) 476-5300 srdyslexiacenter@ gmail.com www.alsrlcenter.org

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American Sign Language University

A resource site for ASL students and teachers. Find information and resources to help you learn ASL and improve your signing. Join our Facebook Group at www.facebook.com/groups/Lifeprint.ASLU. www.lifeprint.com

CURE

ARC - Baldwin County

3650 South Magnolia Street, Loxley, AL 36551 Services for intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. We offer 3 separate locations and 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. Our administrative office is located in Loxley. (see address); The Robertsdale Day Program located at 22860 McAuliffe Drive Robertsdale, AL 36567; The Foley Workshop program is at 209 E Fern Ave. Foley, AL 36536. (251) 978-9125 or (251) 964-4451 www.arcbaldwincounty.org

Canine Companions for Independence

8150 Clarcona Ocoee Road, Orlando, FL 32818 A non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs. (800) 572-2275 info@cci.org www.cci.org

Community Services for Vision Rehabilitation

29653 Anchor Cross Boulevard, Daphne, AL 36526 A non-profit organization, helping those with low vision and blindness. The clinic provides professional evaluation by eye doctors (ODs and MDs), occupational therapists, ophthalmic technicians, computer specialists and also work in collaboration with state agencies and regional and national resources. (251) 928-2888 visionrehab@bellsouth.net www.csvrlowvision.org

ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure THE ALABAMA CENTER FOR CHILDHOOD CANCER AND BLOOD DISORDERS is committed to finding a cure for Liam and the more than 1,500 children each year who come to us for care. At our Center, more than 300 dedicated pediatric healthcare professionals provide exceptional patient care, education and research. We are a founding member of the Children’s Oncology Group * — a worldwide clinical trials organization supported by the National Cancer Institute. PROGRESS IN THE FIGHT FOR A CURE l 84% of children diagnosed with cancer in 2018 will be cured. l State-of-the-art screenings have reduced the rate of stroke in sickle cell patients by 90%. (Sickle cell disease is the leading cause of stroke in children). l Expanded programs help children re-enter school and normal life. l We are limiting the late effects of treatments and developing innovative therapies — making real progress in the fight against childhood cancer and blood disorders. We are COMMITTED to a CURE for all children — down the street and around the world.

Community Services for Vision Rehabilitation

600 BelAir Boulevard (Suite 110), Mobile, AL 36606 A non-profit organization, helping those with low vision and blindness. The clinic provides professional evaluation by eye doctors (ODs and MDs), occupational therapists, ophthalmic technicians, computer specialists and also work in collaboration with state agencies and regional and national resources. (251) 476-4744 visionrehab@bellsouth.net www.csvrlowvision.org

Easter Seals 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: Rehabilitation, Early Intervention, PT, OT, 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.easterseals.com/alabama

Eastern Shore Developmental Center

28150 North Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526 We deliver pediatric developmental and mental health care that is: accessible to all, continuous, comprehensive, family-centered, coordinated, compassionate and culturally effective for ALL children with special health care needs. Children are often referred to us for: Autism Spectrum Disorders, AD/ HD, Speech Delays, Cerebral Palsy, Social Delays, Cognitive Impairment, Developmental Delays, Disruptive Behavior Disorders, Down Syndrome, Enuresis/Encopresis, Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD),

*The Children’s Oncology group is a clinical - translational trials organization with more than 9,000 experts worldwide dedicated to finding better cures and improving the outcomes for all children with cancer.

Family Tree Chiropractic

and Sleep Disorders.

(251) 625-2400 info@easternshoredc.com www.easternshoredc.com

Emerald Coast Pediatric Sleep Consultants

400 Gulf Breeze Pkwy (#204), Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 We provide comprehensive sleep diagnostics and treatment services to children from birth to age 21.

8158 Highway 59 (Suite 106), Foley, AL 36535 We specialize in pediatrics, prenatal, post natal, helping with common childhood challenges and general family wellness care. Dr. Jen Aliment is a member of EPIC Pediatrics, a chiropractic training program specializing in taking care of pediatric and special needs patients.

(850) 932-3830 soniasmith@emeraldcoastsleep.com www.emeraldcoastsleep.com

(251) 943-0569 info@familytreefoley.com www.familytreefoley.com

Especial Needs

Goodwill Easterseals of the Gulf Coast

1850 Borman Court, St. Louis, MO 63146 An online selection of adaptive equipment, rehab equipment and therapy solutions for children and adults with special needs. Offering over 10,000 special needs products focused to mobility, sensory needs and independent living. Click on Funding to see a list of funding resources. (877) 664-4565

www.especialneeds.com

2448 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 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

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

variety of community venues. Education (GED), Job Training and Employment, Medical Assistance, and an Adult Day Program 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 info@guidedog.org www.guidedog.org

March of Dimes Mobile Chapter

205 Lambert Street (Suite A), Mobile, AL 36604 Helping babies in our community start life in the healthiest way possible. Through education and intervention, we help moms-to-be learn to take care of themselves before, during and after their pregnancy and we are also available when things don’t go as planned, providing comfort and information to families when a baby is born too soon. 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

Mental Health – National Alliance on Mental Illness

he 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 namimobile1@gmail.com www.namimobile.org

Montgomery Children’s Specialty Center

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 and works to create a plan of care that promotes an environment of respect, growth and healing.

S. W. Regional School for the Deaf and Blind

Mulherin Custodial Home

(251) 221-5454

(334) 261-3445

www.montgomerybytutera.com

2496 Halls Mill Road, Mobile, AL 36606 A home for individuals, children and adults with developmental disabilities. All of our residents live with us full-time, and we provide all residents nutritious (and delicious!) meals, routine medical care, transportation to and from medical appointments, day programs, job commitments, activities, etc. (251) 471-1998

www.mulherinhome.com

Operation Autism for Military Families

Supports U.S. military families touched by autism spectrum disorders. Serves as an introduction to autism, a guide for the life journey with autism, and a ready reference for resources, services, and support. www.operationautismonline.org

Pediatric Developmental Medicine

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

3980 Burma Road, Mobile, AL 36693 Our mission 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. http://regional.mcs.schoolinsites.com/

Santa America

308 Belrose Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 A national volunteer organization with a very special mission. Over 200 hundred Santa’s, (All having extensive background checks), 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 wrapped in a warm secure Santa Hug! Visits last about an hour and can be in home, hospital, or hospice. Santa visits for free. There is never a charge for a visit from Santa Claus! Our volunteer Santa’s serve Coastal Alabama, the Mississippi coast and the Western Florida Panhandle. (251) 656-8877 santajohn@santa-america.org www.santa-america.org

Sesame Street Autism

The nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street and so much more. Our mission is to help kids everywhere grow smarter, stronger, and kinder, using the power of media and our beloved Muppets to meet children’s development needs with critical early education, social impact programs, and a large dose of fun! www.autism.sesamestreet.org

SiblingSupport.org

205 Lambert Avenue (Suite C), Mobile, AL 36604 A national program dedicated to the life-long and ever-

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changing concerns of millions of brothers and sisters of people with special health, developmental, and mental health concerns. Visit our website to find a program near you. (251) 259-5553 michelle@autism-alabama.org www.siblingsupport.org/sibshops/spanish-fort-sibshop

Sight Savers America

337 Business Circle, Pelham, AL 35124 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.

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(877) 942-2627 info@sightsaversamerica.org www.sightsaversamerica.org

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(251) 210-1632 info@specialneedsfoundation.org www.SpecialNeedsFoundation.org

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Special Needs Foundation of America

8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 SNFA is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating and supporting families with children that have special needs such as Autism, Aspergers, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, etc. SNFA has a board of devoted clinicians, parents and individuals who work diligently and seek grant opportunities for these families in need.

The Listening Program

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. (888) 228-1798 info@advancedbrain.com www.advancedbrain.com

Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive Clothing

Tommy Hilfiger proudly partnered with Runway of Dreamsâ&#x201E;˘ to create a very special collection addressing the challenges the differently-abled community faces each day when getting dressed. info@runwayofdreams.com www.tommy.com

Organizations for Parents Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)

10520 US Highway 231, Wetumpka, AL 36092 We believe that parents have the greatest impact on their childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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) 567-2252 apec@alabamaparentcenter.com www.alabamaparentcenter.com

Family Voices of Alabama

1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Family-centered care for all children and youth with special health care needs and/or disabilities. 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

1825 K Street, NW , Washington, DC 20006 A national non-profit organization committed to promoting parent support across the country. (855) 238-8979 memberinfo@p2pusa.org www.p2pusa.org

www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine

Sensigreen CDH Foundation

Opelika, AL A charitable foundation to benefit Alabama families who receive the life altering CDH diagnosis. This very rare condition is a Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia. In addition to financial assistance, our goal is to help families with children born with CDH and lead the medical community into finding the cause and prevention of this birth defect. The CDH Foundation is grateful to Sensigreen Mechanical and their customers who have helped build this program. Dr. Kays, is one of the few CDH physicians at Johns Hopkins in St. Petersburg, Florida who saves nearly 95% of babies born with this condition. (251) 597-6018 www.sensigreen.com/cdh-foundation/our-story

Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentist receive 2 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 ad on page 14

115 Lottie Lane, Fairhope, AL 36532

(251) 928-5045 baypedo@yahoo.com www.baypedo.com

Daphne Pediatric Dentistry ad on page 67

7058 Professional Place, Daphne, AL 36526 (251) 447-0627

www.daphnepediatricdentistry.com

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

Dr. Trey’s Children’s Dentistry ad on page 20

303 North Section Street, Faihope, AL 36532 (251) 928-3030

www.drtreys.com

Malbis Parkway Pediatric Dentistry ad on page 22

9807 McSara Court, Daphne, AL 36526 (251) 626-9924

www.malbispediatricdentistry.com

Sea Smiles Pediatric Dentistry ad on page 29

825 North Alston Street, Foley, AL 36535 (251) 943-7575

www.seasmilesfoley.com

Recreation & Social 3Circle Church SOAR Special Needs Ministry ad on page 26

10274 Highway 104, Fairhope, AL 36532 The staff and volunteers that make up SOAR ministry are passionate about caring for individuals with disabilities. Our goal is to provide a safe, nurturing, Gospel-centered program for families affected by disability. SOAR meets on the South Campus during 3 Circle Church’s 9:45 service on Sundays. (251) 990-3112 info@3CircleChurch.com www.3circlechurch.com/soar

Bay City Gymnastics ad on page 71

8534 Well Road, Daphne, AL 36526 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 25

6157 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 We offer yoga for children with and without special needs. Each class incorporates 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. (251) 287-0378 bluebirdtherapy@gmail.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Camp ASCCA ad on page 25

5278 Camp ASCCA Drive, Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861 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 year-round. 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 zip-line, and much more. (800) THE-CAMP info@campascca.org www.campascca.org

www.easternshoreparents.com

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Camp Frog - Autism Society of Alabama ad on page 12

Lake Martin, AL Camp is for children on the autism spectrum to enjoy traditional camp activities in a supportive environment with their families. Dates for the 2018 Camp Frog will be September 14th - 16th. Applications are available for download on the website. (205) 951-1364

www.autism-alabama.org/camps

Dance Without Limits - Mobile ad on page 15

4715 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36609 Offering dance classes exclusively to the special needs community! Ages 4-12 (based on cognitive ability not age). Classes are led by Occupational Therapists and special needs experts and each dancer is assisted by a trained volunteer helper. Scholarships are provided by our generous donors. Volunteers are dancers, Camp Smile counselors, special Ed teachers, speech and OT students at South. All dancers will perform at a recital! Registration is available online. (251) 610-4969

www.dancewithoutlimitsfoundation.org

Dance Without Limits at Creative Outlet Dance ad on page 15

66 South Section Street, Fairhope, AL 36532 Offering dance classes exclusively to the special needs community! Ages 4-12 (based on cognitive ability not age). Classes are led by Occupational Therapists and special needs experts and each dancer is assisted by a trained volunteer helper. Scholarships are provided by our generous donors. Volunteers are dancers, Camp Smile counselors, special Ed teachers, speech and OT

students at South. All dancers will perform at a recital! Registration is available online. (251) 610-4969 dancewithoutlimits@aol.com www.dancewithoutlimitsfoundation.org

South Alabama Xtreme ad on page 69

9318 Hard Drive, Foley, AL 36525 Offering Sensory Sessions on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 12pm - 1pm. Also home to Baldwin County’s only Xceptional Athlete Cheer Squad which is lead by Coach Kayla, a passionate and experienced Special Needs Director. We can cater to the learning style of any child! (251) 285-02602 www.southalabamaxtreme.com

The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast ad on page 43

28788 North Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526 A 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization that provides social and recreational opportunities to the special needs community of Baldwin and Mobile counties. 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 Candice Dodson, Program Director. (251) 625-8955 programdirectoref@gmail.com www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org

Access To Recreation

Adaptive recreation equipment for the physically challenged. Equipment items such wheelchair accessories, lifts, safety equipment, ramps, and power chairs, etc. (800) 634-4351 customerservice@accesstr.com www.accesstr.com

AMBUCS

Dedicated to creating mobility and independence for people with disabilities. Programs include providing Amtryke therapeutic tricycles to people with disabilities, funding educational scholarships for therapists and other community service such as building home access ramps and accessible playgrounds. (800) 838-1845 ambucs@ambucs.org www.ambucs.org

Baldwin County Special Olympics Bay Minette, AL 36507 (251) 937-0306

dfrenette@bcbe.org www.bcbe.org

Camp Bridges

1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 Camps & educational programs at no cost for children, young adults, families in Alabama and neighboring states living with an organ transplant. We create a fun and educational environment for heart, kidney, liver and lung transplant recipients that encourage positive self image and healthy transplant living. (205) 558- 2090 info@campbridges.org www.campbridges.org

Camp Mash

11081 Wanda Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 A week-long recreational program offered at no cost for children ages 7 - 17 with a form of juvenile arthritis or related auto-immune disease. We have activities including fishing, swimming, ropes course, horses, archery, and arts & crafts. All activities and accommodations are fully accessible, and a medical staff team is 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. (251) 599-5688 campmashmobile@gmail.com www.campmash.org

Your Health Matters. Quality Care Matters. Dr. Lee specializes in pediatric and adult Ear, Nose & Throat care. He treats everyday ENT illnesses to complex surgeries. Schedule your appointment today. Daphne & Mobile Offices 1302 Hwy 98 • Daphne • 251-410-9000

Michael Rhodes Lee, MD “He has a smile on his face and is always kind to his patients. They also provide same day appointments.” —Jennifer H.

2880 Dauphin Street • Mobile • 251-473-1900

Visit us online at pmg.md

MOBILE • DAPHNE

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Camp Seale Harris

500 Chase Park S (Suite 104), Birmingham, AL 35244 Camps and local community programs providing diabetes education, encouragement, and friendships for children with diabetes and their families. It’s 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 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

Camp Smile-a-Mile

1600 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 We 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 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 savannah@smileamile.com www.campsam.org

Camp-Rap-A-Hope

2701 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 The Gulf Coast’s place for fun in the childhood cancer journey. Camp Rap-A-Hope offers a summer camp, teen weekend, sibling weekend, family fun day, deep sea fishing trip, winter exchange program, and hospital outreach program for children who have been diagnosed with cancer. These programs bring encouragement and hope to children with cancer and their families. All programs are provided free of charge, because

cancer has been costly enough. Camp Rap-A-Hope has been providing these programs for children with cancer for over thirty years and our organization continues to grow and support the entire family. (251) 476-9880 info@camprapahope.org www.camprapahope.org

Children’s Harbor Family Center & Camp

1600 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 Our program 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

451 Hungerford Dr (Ste 100), Rockville, MD 20850 Providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to gain confidence and fitness through community sports, recreation and educational programs. Helping those with visual impairments, amputations, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, head injury, cerebral palsy, neuromuscular/orthopedic conditions, autism and more. (301) 217-0960 info@dsusa.org susa.org

www.disabledsport-

Empowered Parents Support Group 3Circle South Campus

10274 Highway 104, Fairhope, AL 36532 A support group for parents with special needs children. Parents grow and fellowship together, focusing on the unique challenges that special needs may present. This support group is open to the community. Meetings are held on the South Campus at 6:30pm the First Friday of each month. (251) 990-3112 info@3CircleChurch.com www.3circlechurch.com/soar

Exceptional Arts Drama by Sunnyside Theater

63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606 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. Roles are adapted to give each cast member the chance to showcase their unique talents on stage. Participants learn how to put on a play, memorize scripts, perform choreography, and role play during dress up as well as perform a full play at the end of the semester. Tuesday nights 6:00pm-8:00pm. $50/month. (251) 510-1808 azaleacity@mindspring.com www.azaleacityarts.com

Hope Outdoors

P.O. Box 1421, Chatom, AL We have 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. Meals, lodging and licenses are provided. Participants are responsible for travel to and from the event. Our Alabama Chapter event will be January 18 - 19, 2019. Apply online at http://hopeoutdoors.org/applynow. Visit us on Facebook for photos and event updates. (251) 769-7974 ksansing15@gmail.com www.hopeoutdoors.org

Lakeshore Foundation

4000 Ridgeway Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209 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 elite-level athletes, every participant is free to discover his or her own potential. Our mission is to enable people with a physical

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(205) 313-7400 info@lakeshore.org www.lakeshore.org

Section Street Pizza

108 North Section Street, Fairhope, AL 36532 Handmade Brick Oven Pizzas and gourmet salads. Employment opportunities offered to our special needs community. Hours: Monday - Thursday 11am - 9pm; Friday & Saturday 11am - 10pm; Closed Sunday. (251) 929-4998

www.sectionstpizza.com

SNAP (Special Needs Athletes Programs)

4120 Government Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36693 Helping special needs athletes participate in bowling activities. Our mission is to give developmentally disabled citizens in Mobile and Baldwin County area the opportunity to participate in a recreational sport with others of the same skill level and have fun doing it! Our next league begins September 8, 2018 at Skyline Lanes. Please call Executive Director Joe Marshall to register. (251) 366-9978 joe@snapofalabama.com www.snapofalabama.com

Special Olympics of Alabama

AL Year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. (334) 242-3383 soaloffice@aol.com www.specialolympicsalabama.com

Water Planet Dolphin Therapy

203 Greenwood Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32407 We offer therapy options that allow patients to interact with the dolphins. Water Planetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dolphin therapy programs use the emotional impact of a dolphin encounter in his own environment combined with expressive art, massage, cranio-sacral therapy and music as a beneficial experience for children with physical disabilities, spectrum disorders, depression, ADHD, head and spinal cord injuries, developemntal delays, emotionally challenged and fragile children. (850) 230-6030 info@waterplanetusa.com www. waterplanetusa.com

We Rock the Spectrum

1802 US Highway 98 , Daphne, AL 36526 We are a sensory-safe gym providing kids of ALL abilities a place to play and grow together! Occupational therapy equipment, unique classes, birthday parties, trampoline, zipline and arts & crafts. (818) 996-6620 info@werockthespectrumdaphne.com www.werockthespectrumdaphne.com

Westside Buddy-Ball League

1001 Schillinger Road , Mobile, AL 36695 A program for mentally and physically challenged youth ages 15-21 years old in an athletic environment structured to their abilities. Our program teaches the community to recognize the Abilities of our participants rather than their Disabilities. Young adults, teens and children can volunteer to be a buddy to the participants. Visit our Facebook page for season updates. Buddy Ball takes place at Westside Baseball Park with Spring and Fall seasons. (251) 680-2744 zabu01@bellsouth.net www.westsidebaseball.com

Wonderland Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum

151 Van Buren Street, Daphne, AL 36526 Please call or find us on Facebook for more information about our sensory classes. (251) 586-8811 Kari.Noell@wonderlandcm.com www.wonderlandcm.com

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Recreation/Therapy Captains for Kids Special Needs Day of Fun

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 8, 2018. (850) 438-5555

www.captainsforkids.com

Equine Education Consultants

19818 Lawrence Road, Fairhope, AL 26532 Equine Educational Consultants provides equine therapy to individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD and Speech/Language Delays. Find us on Facebook for program updates. (251) 747-8219

Schools and Educational Resources High Hopes for Autism (St. Benedict’s School) ad on page 42

12786 South Illinois Street, Elberta, AL 36530 Preparing children affected by Autism Spectrum Disor-

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

ders, and other developmental delays, to independently participate in a traditional classroom. We specialize in preschool age children and use Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) techniques. Diagnosis is not required for any of our programs. We also offer Individual ABA Therapy and Shadowing in the classroom, computer monitoring and parent training during your child’s therapy session. (251) 986-7007 highhopes4autism@gmail.com www.highhopes4autism.org

Huntington Learning Center ad on page 53

6880 US Hwy 90 (Suite 13), Daphne, AL 36526 Helping 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) 621-1055 daphne

www.huntingtonhelps.com/center/

Renaissance School ad on page 73

standards. Full Curriculum Non-Profit School, Grade Levels K-8. Dyslexia Therapy and Tutoring.

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The Learning Tree – Growing Independence Behavioral Center

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5465 Able Court, Mobile, AL 36693 Offering clinic-based ABA services. Services include comprehensive early intensive behavioral intervention for preschool-aged children and focused clinical services to address challenging behaviors for schoolaged children. Clinic hours are Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm. Services are available in Mobile, Anniston, Birmingham and Montgomery.

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(251) 990-0041 admin@esrenaissance.org www.esrenaissance.org

ad on page 59

(251) 331-8021 jstarr@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org

The Learning Tree – Little Tree Preschool ad on page 59

1176 Azalea Road, Mobile, AL 36693 Quality preschool education for children ages 2 ½ - 5 years. Low student –teacher ratios are maintained and teachers are certified. Children are encouraged to grow and learn by building on individual strengths to establish a strong foundation for success. The preschool is a blended preschool model, including services for children with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. The Little Tree Preschool 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. The school provides a social setting to promote healthy self-esteem and sensitivity

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to the needs of others. Programs are offered in Mobile, Auburn and Anniston. (251) 288-8916 cmcspadden@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org

The Learning Tree Woody’s Song School ad on page 59

5465 Able Court, Mobile, AL 36693 Serving children ages 5 – 21 with autism spectrum disorder. The private, nonprofit school is a tuitionbased, year-round day school built on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). The school helps children with autism increase their skills in the areas of language, socialization and cognition, while decreasing behaviors that interfere with their learning. (251) 331-8021 jstarr@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org

The Learning Tree Residential School ad on page 59

5459 Able Court, Mobile, AL 36693 We are a non-profit organization providing educational and residential services for children and adolescents, ages 6 – 21, with developmental disabilities, including autism. The residential school provides each child with 24 - hour care in a homelike setting that is suited to their unique and special needs. Their individualized educational services are provided in a community school setting. The organization also provides individual and professional consultation training services. Programs are located in Mobile, Jacksonville and Tallassee. (251) 649-4420 vmitchell@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org

Baldwin County Public School System

Bay Minette, AL 36507 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 dfrenette@bcbe.org www.bcbe.org

Emmanuel’s Place

The Think Tank Tutoring and Educational Services

Mobile & Baldwin County, AL Tutoring and educational services provided one-on-one in-home tutoring to general education, learning disabled and homebound students. We work directly with the student’s teachers to ensure 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

211 North Cedar Street, Foley, AL 36535 A specialized day care for Special Needs infants and children ages 6 weeks - 14 years.

Therapy

Read Write Learning Center

ad on page 9

(251) 209-5983 info@emmanuelsplace.org www.emmanuelsplace.org

1048 Stanton Road, Suite G, Daphne, AL 36526

(251) 625-4020 baldwinoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com

15 Midtown Park West, Mobile, AL 36606

(251) 287-1822 mobileoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com

Educational consulting, testing, and one-on-one academic therapy for students with language based learning disabilities. We offer instruction in almost every subject as well as programs for homeschooled students and preschoolers. We have Coaches’ Club at Read Write, offering subject based coaching, teamwork coaching and homework conditioning for all students 4th-12th. www.readwritelearningcenter.com

American Autism and Rehabilitation Center 8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 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 help to patients and families with children that have special needs such as Autism, Aspergers, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, etc. (251) 210-1632 info@americanautismcenter.com www.Americanautismcenter.com

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American Hyperbaric Center ad on page 9

8871 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 A premier Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) treatment facility. HBOT reduces inflammation, promote healing, repair cells and heal wounds as well as treating symptoms of 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 info@americanhbot.com www.AmericanHBOT.com

Kids Kount-Therapy Services, LLC ad on page 15

3512 Godwin Court, Mobile, AL 36693 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; 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) 517-0355 frontdesk.kidskount@gmail.com www.kidskounttherapy.com

Kids Kount-Therapy Services, LLC BlueBird Pediatric Therapy, Inc. ad on page 25

6157 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 We believe that every child deserves to live a full, confident life. We offer occupational therapy, speech therapy, feeding therapy, music therapy, social skills groups, summer camps and adapted kid’s yoga. Some of the special techniques that we use include, Integrative Listening Systems, Sensory Integration Techniques, Handwriting Without Tears, DIR/Floor time 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. (251) 287-0378 bluebirdtherapy@gmail.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

ad on page 15

26420 Kensington Place (Suite C), Daphne, AL 36526 Our speech-language therapy staff manages reading instruction with advanced knowledge in literacy development using a variety of Orton Gillingham-based programs and multisensory strategies. Areas of focus include reading development (sound awareness, comprehension, and strategies) and math skills development (rote memory skills, problem solving, and number sense) in a fun and engaging environment. (251) 517-0355 leah.kidskount@yahoo.com www.kidskounttherapy.com

North Baldwin Infirmary Pediatric Rehabilitation ad on page 79

1815 Hand Avenue, Bay Minette, AL 36507 The 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 rich.rammel@infirmaryhealth.org www.infirmaryhealth.org

PASSAGE USA ad on page 37

307 University Blvd Office (UCOM 3402), obile, AL 36688 University of South Alabama’s new, post secondary two-year certificate program for students with intellectual disabilities. It focuses on providing individual supports and services for academic and social inclusion of students with intellectual disabilities in academic courses, extracurricular activities, and other aspects of the University’s regular post secondary program. The program will focus on gainful employment through academic enrichment, socialization, independent living skills, self determination skills, self advocacy skills, and community engagement. (251) 460-7674 ceps/passage/

www.southalabama.edu/colleges/

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Pediatric Physical Therapy of Mobile ad on page 31

881 Hillcrest Road, Mobile, AL 36695 Treatment is individualized to maximize functional outcomes with child-friendly, play-based treatment

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programs. We utilize state of the art technology and evidence based practices during treatment. The clinic follows 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

Therapy Services at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital ad on Inside Front Cover

1610 Center Street, Mobile, AL 36604 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 Problems, Attention Problems & Loss of Function Due to Chronic Illness. (251) 415-1670

www.usahealthsystem.com

Thomas Hospital Pediatric Therapy ad on page 39

750 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope, AL 36532 Providing 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) 928-2375 rich.rammel@infirmaryhealth.org www.infirmaryhealth.org

Buckaroo Barn

39821 Duffee Lane, Bay Minette, AL 36507 Physical therapy specializing in hippotherapy as a

treatment tool for children with disabilities. Hippotherapy is a therapy which uses the movement of the horse to influence the patient’s posture, balance, strength, 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

Gulf Coast Therapy

9890 Twin Beech Road, Fairhope, AL 35532 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. Locations in Fairhope and Foley.

South Baldwin Regional Medical Center

1613 North McKenzie Street, Foley, AL 36535 We offer a variety of services, including Physical Therapy, (251) 949-3580; Occupational Therapy (251) 949-3846; and Speech Therapy (251) 9493845. 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 Hayden_Kaechele@chs.net www.southbaldwinrmc.com

(251) 928-7312 fho@gulfcoasttherapy. com www.gulfcoasttherapy.com

Gulf Coast Therapy

21040 Miflin Road (Suite 1), Foley, AL 36535 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 schoolbased therapy. Locations in Fairhope and Foley.

USA Speech and Hearing Clinic

(251) 923-0888 info@gulfcoasttherapy.com www.gulfcoasttherapy.com

Melanie Waters -Spoken Word Speech Language Services LLC

1203 US Highway 98 (Suite 1-A), Daphne, AL 36526 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, and communication problems. Fast ForWord products and monitoring are also available. (251) 786-8255 mel.spokenword@gmail.com www.spokenwordspeech.com

1119 HAHN, 5721 USA Drive North, Mobile, AL 36608 The clinic provides services in speech, language and hearing to citizens of Mobile and surrounding areas as well as supervised clinical experience needed for graduation and professional licensure/ certification. Because we are a 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 ESP

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When Julie Urban started going through her son’s belongings in his bedroom, she wasn’t sure what she was looking for. She only knew that her 17-year-old wasn’t acting like himself. “He had been acting strange for several months - staying out late, missing classes, getting in trouble at school,” Urban says. “His personality had changed quite a bit. He had gone from very shy and reserved to active, outgoing and always busy. He was constantly fidgeting and would be caught up in lies from time to time.”

Hidden in a tub of soccer scarves, she and her husband discovered a JUUL, an e-cigarette resembling a flash drive, still in its original packaging. “If it hadn’t been in the box, we would not have known what it was,” Urban says. JUUL (pronounced “jewel”) is all the rage among middle school and high school students. “This product has more than half of the e-cigarette market share and is a large reason that e-cigarette use is the leading tobacco product among kids,” says Erika Sward, National Assistant Vice President for Advocacy, American Lung Association, Washington D.C.

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

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What is JUUL? A JUUL is a slender,

compact e-cigarette that looks like a flash drive. A small, non-refillable liquid nicotine cartridge or pod clicks into the top of the device. JUUL charges in a USB port. The pod’s e-liquid heats up to create a vapor that the user inhales. According to the manufacturer, a single pod contains 59 milligrams of nicotine per milliliter of liquid, which is equivalent to the amount of nicotine in an entire pack of cigarettes.

What’s the attraction? From a teen’s perspective, JUUL is “the perfect storm,” Sward says. The product is sleek and discreet, hidden easily in pockets, sweatshirts and backpacks. It doesn’t produce the vapor cloud associated with other e-cigarettes, making it simple for kids to use even while sitting in class. Candy and fruit flavored e-juices, decorative wraps or “skins,” and social media campaigns add to the appeal. Isn’t it safer than smoking? E-cigarette makers originally marketed their products as smoking cessation devices, which gave these products a halo effect as healthier alternatives to traditional cigarettes. Since they don’t look or smell like traditional cigarettes, many kids fail to see e-cigarettes as the latest evolution in how tobacco companies are peddling their products. “You’ve got a lot of kids who would never in a million years think to pick up a cigarette who are using JUUL,” Sward says. Researchers aren’t sure how harmful e-cigarettes are, but they do know that the products emit chemicals into the lungs, including aldehydes (formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein and acetone); volatile organic compounds found in car exhaust; heavy metals like nickel, lead and chromium; and diacetyl, a highly toxic chemical linked to lung disease. Exposure to diacetyl can cause a lifethreatening condition called popcorn lung, or obliterative bronchiolitis. Diacetyl was once used to enhance the buttery flavor of popcorns. Factory workers, who inhaled the chemical, began to experience inflammation in the lungs, leading to scarring and narrowing of the airways and difficulty breathing. Popcorn lung disease is irreversible and can be mistaken for other respiratory ailments like asthma. Symptoms include wheezing, dry cough, shortness of breath, unexplained exhaustion and irritation around the skin, eyes, mouth or nose. “The bottom line is that no e-cigarette has been found to be safe and effective by the FDA for helping smokers quit,” Sward says. 69

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How does nicotine affect brain development? The adolescent brain is

particularly vulnerable to the addictive effects of nicotine. The brain’s cortex, the center of decision making and impulse control, isn’t fully formed until around the age of 25. According to the Surgeon General: “Nicotine changes the way synapses are formed, which can harm the parts of the brain that control attention and learning. Because addiction is a form of learning, adolescents get addicted more easily than adults.” Research suggests that kids who use e-cigarettes are much more likely to turn to traditional cigarettes later.

How are e-cigarettes regulated? State laws vary. Some states have increased the minimum age to purchase nicotine products to 21, but they’re relatively easy for minors to purchase online. Other states have begun taxing e-cigarettes and prohibiting the sale of flavored products. Since e-cigarettes are not regulated by the FDA, there’s no telling exactly how much nicotine is in any of these products, including those that claim to contain zero nicotine. “The Food and Drug Administration has kicked the can down the road on dealing with JUUL and other e-cigarettes. They are asking a lot of questions both directly of JUUL and of the broader public on the issues of flavors and of e-cigarettes more broadly; but when it comes time to taking meaningful action against the sale of these products and protecting kids, the FDA has failed to deliver in a big way,” Sward says. 0,000 $10

What can parents do?

• Promote a healthy lifestyle. Talk to your kids about the harmful effects of addictive substances on the body. • Remind your kids that like traditional cigarettes, JUUL and other e-cigs are highly addictive nicotine delivery systems. • Contact your child’s middle school or high school to learn how they are educating staff and students about e-cigarettes. • Familiarize yourself with what JUUL and other e-cigarettes look like. • Contact your state legislators and urge them to protect kids by increasing the minimum age to purchase nicotine products to 21, prohibit the sale of flavored products and put pressure on the FDA to regulate e-cigarettes. ESP

Christa Melnyk Hines is a freelance journalist and author. She and her husband are the parents of two middle school age sons. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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A Page in a Book Girls Who Make Art Making art is a privilege that is accessible to everyone, regardless of age, gender, class or inclination. Free from traditional boundaries, artistic expression can emerge from every medium and inhabit any space. The following titles feature women and girls who take their own great strides into the art landscape and erase traditional boundaries by painting their own path forward with the tools at hand.

Anywhere Artist

by Nikki Slade Robinson (Harcourt / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) As a young artist moves through a variety of environments, she’s not constrained by the absence of paper or paint, of clay or canvas. The forest offers leaves, lichens and twigs that can assemble into wholly new creatures, sprung from her imagination. Likewise, kelp, sand and shells are all she needs at the beach to lay out shapes and shadows for her original creations. Even the sky becomes a canvas as her mind brushes and shapes clouds into shapes and forms that suit her vision. Anywhere she goes, art can happen. Presenting the whole world as an art studio, with nature and imagination as the only mediums needed to create, Anywhere Artist encourages inspiration and resourcefulness when art awaits.

Maya Lin: Artist-Architect of Light and Lines

By Jeanne Walker Harvey, Illustrated by Dow Phumiruk (Henry Holt / Macmillan) As the child of a sculptor and a poet, Maya Lin was raised with the power of shape and words. In 1981, when artists and architects were invited to submit designs for a future memorial to the American soldiers lost in the Vietnam War, Maya Lin was still a college student. Understanding the importance of this memorial to both survivors and a grateful nation, young Maya visited the proposed site to see what her vision would present. Her artist’s eye showed her a cut in the earth, walled with granite to reflect the viewer, and the stone carved with the name of every lost soldier. Considered avant garde at the time, Lin’s design for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. is now regarded as one of the most moving and powerful installations in the country.

Big Machines: The Story of Virginia Lee Burton

by Sherri Duskey Rinker, Illustrated by John Rocco (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) Virginia Lee Burton, ‘Jinnee’ to her friends, is many things. She’s a dancer, she talks to animals, and with magic wands (sticks of charcoal, paint brushes and pens) she creates heroes, dinosaurs and whole new worlds. But for her two sons, Jinnee works the greatest magic of all; she creates big machines! While her boys look on, Jinnee uses her wands to sketch the outlines of trains, steam shovels, and snowplows. As her drawings evolve with color and details, the stories and personalities of the big machines emerge as well. Beloved as the creator of the children’s book classics ‘Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel and ‘Choo Choo’, Burton’s own story is revealed as Big Machines drives a magical, movement-filled view of her artistic process and the mother’s love that drove her most famous creations. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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FamilyCalendar Sunday September 2

5 Rivers Animal Ambassadors Meet and Greet

(Free)

Monday September 3

Moonlight Chassé Ballroom Dance Society ($7

for members and $10 for non-members)

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

Tuesday September 4

5 Rivers StoryTime (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. This week’s story is about Cows that can use a typewriter! 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. 10-11am, free, no registration necessary. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center 5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night (Free) 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Free, everyone is welcome. Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. 7pm-8:30pm; Mobile Bay Sierra Club, 7pm8:30pm; Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Wednesday September 5

Observe & Explore Day (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Graham Creek Nature Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, 36535 Theme of the September 5th Observe & Explore event celebrates our pitcher plant bogs at Graham Creek Nature Preserve. FREE nature learning workshop for children 10 and under will include wagon rides to the pitcher bog, along with more fun activities. www.grahamcreekpreserve.org

Thursday September 6

United Way of Baldwin County Campaign Kick Off Luncheon 11:30 AM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne,

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

36526 Join us for our annual United Way of Baldwin County Campaign Kick Off Luncheon featuring Legendary Head Coach Gene Stallings! www.unitedway-bc.org Friends of the Foley Library Bookstore Sale 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Foley Public Library, 319 East Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535 Half price on ALL BOOKSTORE ITEMS! Add to your personal library or give the gift of reading to family and friends. Great selection of used books for sale at fabulous prices. … www.visitfoley.com

Friday September 7

25th Annual National Shrimp Festival Golf Tournament for Education 10:30 AM Kiva Dunes Golf and Beach Resort, 815 Plantation Road Gulf Shores, 36542 25th Annual National Shrimp Festival Golf Tournament for Education at Kiva Dunes Golf and Beach Resort. www.myshrimpfest.com/golf-tournament-for-education.html First Friday Art Walk 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope, 36532 Fairhope First Friday Art Walk Visit our local merchants in Downtown Fairhope as they open late and highlight the art community. Art Walk happens every first Friday of each month from 6-8 p.m. The Black Jacket Symphony presents AC/DC’s ‘Back in Black 7:00 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. A selected 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. 251-208-5600 www.mobilesaenger.com

Saturday September 8

Hurricane Run 5K and Fun Run 8:00 AM Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Race to benefit Dauphin Island Fire and Rescue. www.events.com/r/en_US/registration/hurricanerun-5k-and-fun-run-dauphin-island-september-736935 2018 Brett Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon 5:00 PM Gulf Shores Main Public Beach, 101 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 Enjoy a beautiful gulf swim and a fast, flat bike and run course at a great venue! Team Magic is very excited to partner once again with the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission, the City of Gulf Shores, the City of Orange Beach and Gulf State Park to bring you this great destination triathlon for the 12th year! 615-415-3520 www.team-magic.com Captains for Kids Special Needs Day of Fun Various Locations, 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 8th. 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! 850-438-5555 www.captainsforkids.com WWE Live Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 WWE Live comes to Mobile Civic Center. www.mobilecivicctr.com

Sunday September 9

Fall Block Party 2:00 PM Fairhope Christian Church, 349 Fairwood Boulevard Fairhope, 36532 Fairhope Christian Church invites everyone to join us at a community Block Party where we’ll say goodbye to summer and hello to fall! Kids and adults alike will enjoy inflatables, games, water fun, and tasty treats for all. Join us at this free event and bring your neighbors and friends. 251-928-8495 www.fairhopechristian.org

Tuesday September 11

Teen Art Workshop - Printmaking (Free) 3:45 PM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, 36526 A Teen Art Workshop will be held September 11th, 2018 between 3:45 and 4:45 pm in the Community Room! The theme will be Printmaking! Registration required. 251-621-2818 www.daphnelibrary.org 9th Annual Community Awareness Event ($100) 6:00 PM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US Hwy 98 Daphne, 36526 the Baldwin County Drug Court 9th Annual Community Awareness Event featuring Oliver North. www.baldwindrugcourt.com 5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night (Free) 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. 7pm-8pm; Mobile Bay Audubon Society, 7pm-8pm; Alabama Hiking Trail Society 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center 11th Annual Never Forget Free Lunch at the Original Oyster House Original Oyster House - Gulf Shores or Causeway location, 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 Tuesday Sept. 11, 2018 from 11 am to 4 pm. The 11th Annual Never Forget Lunch was established by the Original Oyster House restaurants in honor of the 9/11 First Responders

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Wednesday September 12

An Evening with Renee Fleming 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Renée Fleming is one of the most acclaimed singers of our time. In 2013, President Obama awarded her America’s highest honor for an artist, the National Medal of Arts. In 2014, she became the first classical artist ever to sing the National Anthem at the Super Bowl. Winner of four Grammy® awards, Renée has sung for momentous occasions from the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony to the Diamond Jubilee Concert for Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace. www.mobilesymphony.org/event/evening-reneefleming

Thursday September 13

Eastern Shore Kid’s Market 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Fairhope Civic Center, 161 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Join us for Eastern Sore Kid’s Market Consignment Sale on September 13-15. www.easternshorekidsmarket.com 6th Annual BCEC Golf Classic 11:30 AM Rock Creek Golf Club, Fairhope, 36521 Baldwin County Sewer is asking for support of the

Sixth Annual Baldwin County Education Coalition Golf Classic. 251-989-2262 www.baldwincountysewer.com/ community/2018-charity-golf-tournament/ Tea for Two (Your $2 donation will help support ongoing programs.)

2:00 PM Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Come enjoy a cup of organic, Oolong Fairhope Tea and a different guest speaker every week! Speaker - Donnie Barrett- “Historic Potters of the Eastern Shore”. Donnie gave this seminar at Auburn University as part of a Southern Pottery seminarin June. He looks forward to sharing the presentation at home! 251-929-1471 www.fairhopeal.gov/departments/ museum Arts at the Market 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermans Market, 20733 Miflin Road Foley, 36535 We have a wide variety of talented Artists that will have their work on display for you and we can’t wait to share more about them! We will have 30 artists, food and live music! www.coastalalabamamarket.com/home Girls Just Wanna Have Fun 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Government Plaza, 205 Government Street Mobile, 36602 This “must do” event is an evening for ladies 21 years of age and

older and features heavy hors d’oeuvres from local area chefs and restaurants, McTini’s and an unforgettable evening of manicures, make-overs, shopping, entertainment and more. www.rmhcmobile.org 5th Annual Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival 5:30 PM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 The Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival presented by Rouses Markets will take place Thursday, Sept. 13 through Saturday, Sept. 15. The festival – bringing together local and celebrity talent alike – will feature more than 100 labels of wine, chef demonstrations, book signings by James Briscione and Brooke Parkhurst, a luxury yacht walk and auctions benefitting Make-A-Wish® Alabama. September 13 - VIP Kickoff + Chef Showdown www.thewharfuncorked.com Domehead Science (General admission is $10 for

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

6:00 PM Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government Street Mobile, 36602 “Creating Hurricane and Rising Sea Level Resilient Barrier Islands” Followed by a FREE viewing of “The Day After Tomorrow” in the IMAX theater. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Food and Folly ($45 Per Person, $70 Per Couple) 6:30 PM Fort Whiting, 1630 South Broad Street Mobile, 36602 United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile will host our annual Food and Folly event. Enjoy carnival music by the Excelsior Band, a wine grab, silent auction, wine tasting and sample some of your favorite local cuisine. 251-479-4900 www.ucpmobile.org

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FamilyCalendar Baldwin County Pops Recital (Free) 7:00 PM Coastal Alabama Community College: Fairhope Campus, 450 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Baldwin Pops Concert. www.baldwinpops.com

Friday September 14

Eastern Shore Kid’s Market 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Fairhope Civic Center, 161 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Join us for Eastern Sore Kid’s Market Consignment Sale on September 13-15. www.easternshorekidsmarket.com South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker”. 251-968-6721 www.sbct.biz 5th Annual Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 The Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival presented by Rouses Markets will take place Thursday, Sept. 13 through Saturday, Sept. 15. The festival – bringing together local and celebrity talent alike – will feature more than 100 labels of wine, chef demonstrations, book signings by James

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

Briscione and Brooke Parkhurst, a luxury yacht walk and auctions benefitting Make-A-Wish® Alabama. September 14 - Local Wine Dinners www.thewharfuncorked.com

Saturday September 15

Coastal Cleanup 8:00 AM Various Locations, You or your organization can volunteer to clean Alabama’s coastal waterways and beaches on Saturday, September 15, 2018 from 8am – 12pm. www.alabamacoastalcleanup.com Jubilee Race for Life 5K 8:00 AM 1515 6th Street Daphne, 36526 Event benefits Bayside Medical Missions to provide corrective surgeries for persons of limited financial resources. 251-928-4248 www.BaysideMedicalMissions.org 3rd Annual Massacre Island (Adult admission is $8 and children admission (Age 5-12) is $4. Free admission for youngsters age 4 & under.)

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 This event is hosted by Fort Gaines and the 6th Alabama Cavalry Buccaneers. Activities will include Flintlock Pistol Duels, Pirate Tug-of-War, Swashbuckling Sword Play, Cannon Firings, Blacksmithing, music by the Kracker Dan Band and a Treasure Hunt for the little ones! 251-861-6992 www.dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines Eastern Shore Kid’s Market 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Fairhope Civic Center, 161 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Join us for Eastern Sore Kid’s Market Consignment Sale on September 13-15. www.easternshorekidsmarket.com

Recovery Fest 2018 9:00 AM USS Battleship Memorial Parkway, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602 In observance of National Recovery Month, Recovery Fest 2018 will be a day filled with fellowship, food, music, kids’ activities, inspiring stories of recovery and more! National Recovery Month is held every September to educate Americans that substance use treatment and mental health services can enable those with a mental and/ or substance use disorder to live a healthy and rewarding life. 251-433-2703 www.ussalabama.com Observe & Explore Day (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Graham Creek Nature Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, 36535 Our September 15th Observe & Explore theme will focus on soils and sediments, and the ecological role of worms. FREE nature learning activities for children and families. www.grahamcreekpreserve.org

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Yoga Life Fair 2:30 PM Fairhope Pier, 1 Beach Road Fairhope, 36532 Start Yoga Week with Yoga Life Fair an afternoon of raffle prizes, performances, live music, booths and yoga classes for all levels, to raise food for local food banks while building awareness about living consciously and meeting others that do so. www.yogalifefair.com Sherlock Holmes and the Haunted Theatre (Admission is $10, with children under 5 admitted free)

5:00 PM Copper Kettle Tea Bar, 106 North Chicago Street Foley, 36535 A mystery is afoot, and Commedia del Arte needs your help to solve it! After a suspicious death at a London theatre, Sherlock Holmes is called in to solve the case. However, as

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FamilyCalendar more and more innocent people disappear, the situation becomes hairier than even the great Holmes imagined! 251-510-0654 Night at the Museum Sleepover (Free) 6:00 PM Gulf Shores Museum, 244 West 19th Avenue Gulf Shores, 36542 Your adventure begins Sept. 15 at 6 p.m. at the Gulf Shores Museum! Food will be provided as well as movies, activities, games and some sleeping. You will be reunited with your parents on Sept. 16 at 8 a.m. This is a FREE event open to children ages 11-13. There are limited spots available. You may register in person at the Bodenhamer Recreation Center or Cultural Center. You may also register online at www.gulfshoresal.gov/recreationregistration. 251-968-9813 www.gulfshoresal.gov/recreation registration

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Miracle Worker”. 251-968-6721 www.sbct.biz

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “The

5th Annual Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 The Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival presented

by Rouses Markets will take place Thursday, Sept. 13 through Saturday, Sept. 15. The festival – bringing together local and celebrity talent alike – will feature more than 100 labels of wine, chef demonstrations, book signings by James Briscione and Brooke Parkhurst, a luxury yacht walk and auctions benefitting Make-A-Wish® Alabama. September 15 - Grand Tasting - It all leads up to the Grand Tasting taking place on Saturday. Main Street and Wharf Parkway will be lined with vendors offering samples of the finest food, wine, beer, and spirits. Guests will have the opportunity to cast a vote for their favorite, and the night will close with a ceremony of awards. www.thewharfuncorked.com Bike MS: Tour de Beach 2018 Spring Hill Suites at The Wharf, 4673 Wharf Parkway West Orange Beach, 36561 This two-day ride is the perfect way to get your gulf vacation and a wonderful ride! Our routes take cyclists along the beautiful Gulf Coast and communities dotting the Mobile Bay. We start each day with breakfast beach side at sunrise, team photos, and start line excitement. Relax post-ride at our beachfront Bike MS Lounge with music, football games, and massages. Saturday night join us for cocktails, live music, and a seafood feast celebrating the accomplishments of the weekend! This is sure to be a ride you won’t forget! www.main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/ ALCBikeEvents?pg=entry&fr_id=29944

Sunday September 16

3rd Annual Massacre Island (Adult admission is $8 and children admission (Age 5-12) is $4. Free admission for youngsters age 4 & under.)

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 This event is hosted by

Fort Gaines and the 6th Alabama Cavalry Buccaneers. Activities will include Flintlock Pistol Duels, Pirate Tug-of-War, Swashbuckling Sword Play, Cannon Firings, Blacksmithing, music by the Kracker Dan Band and a Treasure Hunt for the little ones! 251-861-6992 www.dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines 5 Rivers Animal Ambassadors Meet and Greet

(Free)

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard 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. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker” 2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker”. 251-968-6721 www.sbct.biz Bike MS: Tour de Beach 2018 Spring Hill Suites at The Wharf, 4673 Wharf Parkway West Orange Beach, 36561 This two-day ride is the perfect way to get your gulf vacation and a wonderful ride! Our routes take cyclists along the beautiful Gulf Coast and communities dotting the Mobile Bay. We start each day with breakfast beach side at sunrise, team photos, and start line excitement. Relax post-ride at our beachfront Bike MS Lounge with music, football games, and massages. Saturday night join us for cocktails, live music, and a seafood

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FamilyCalendar feast celebrating the accomplishments of the weekend! This is sure to be a ride you won’t forget! www.main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/ ALCBikeEvents?pg=entry&fr_id=29944

Monday September 17

Moonlight Chassé Ballroom Dance Society ($7

for members and $10 for non-members)

Tuesday September 18

5 Rivers StoryTime “Little Beaver and the Echo” (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. This week’s story is about Cows that can use a typewriter! 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. 10-11am, free, no registration necessary. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center 68th Baldwin County Fair 5:00 PM 11:00 PM, 19477 Fairground Road Robertsdale, 36567 Baldwin County Fair. 251-947-3247 www.baldwincofair.com

Wednesday September 19

68th Baldwin County Fair 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM, 19477 Fairground Road Robertsdale, 36567 Baldwin County Fair. 251-947-3247 www.baldwincofair.com

Friday September 21

special community collaborations! Film screenings of “The Mystical Migration of the Monarch”, Make-&Take art projects, Art Market, Monarch education, Milkweed Sales and more. All ages welcome! 251-928-2228 www.esartcenter.org

JAES Presents - The White Party 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Fairhope Brewing Company, 914 Nichols Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Save the date for our 3rd annual silent auction benefiting the children of the Eastern Shore! www.jaeasternshore.org

68th Baldwin County Fair 1:00 PM - 12:00 AM, 19477 Fairground Road Robertsdale, 36567 Baldwin County Fair. 251-947-3247 www.baldwincofair.com

68th Baldwin County Fair 5:00 PM - 1:00 AM, 19477 Fairground Road Robertsdale, 36567 Baldwin County Fair. 251-947-3247 www.baldwincofair.com

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker”. 251-968-6721 www.sbct.biz

Saturday September 22

Kids Fishing Day (Free) 8:00 AM Safe Harbor Pond, 11401 US-98 Fairhope, 36532 Kids Fishing Day is annual event when children can fish--for FREE--and enjoy the outdoors with family! Held at Safe Harbor Pond by the Weeks Bay Foundation office on Highway 98, west of the Fish River bridge, this is a great opportunity for children 15 and younger to cast a line in a safe and fun environment. The Foundation stocks the pond with locally-raised catfish, and each child can take home up to three fish. The Foundation also provides fishing gear and bait for children who do not have their own, plus hotdogs, snow cones and more! www.weeksbay.org St. Jude Walk 8:00 AM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602 Let’s end childhood cancer. Together. Register, form a team, and invite your friends and family to join. Or, join an existing team. Then, be a fearless fundraiser for the kids of St. Jude. www.fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR/Walk/ Walk?pg=entry&fr_id=89668 Arts and Crafts Festival (Free) 9:00 AM Jubilee Shores United Methodist, 17261 AL-181 Fairhope, 36532 Art Festival www.jubileeshores.net

2:00 PM Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Come enjoy a cup of organic, Oolong Fairhope Tea and a different guest speaker every week! Speaker - Donnie Barrett presents “The Chicken Program!” Did the egg come first? Why is chicken feces three colors? How many stomachs do chickens really have? Come get these answers and more fascinating facts you didn’t know you didn’t know about chickens! 251-929-1471 www.fairhopeal.gov/departments/ museum

2nd Annual Special Needs Expo (Free) 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Life Center t St. Pauls, 28788 North Main Street Daphne, 36526 Mobile Bay Parents Magazine and Eastern Shore Parents Magazine are hosting their 2nd Annual Special Needs Expo from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on September 23, ad St. Paul’s Life Center in Daphne, AL. Admission is free and attendees will have the opportunity to visit with exhibitors and learn about products, support groups, recreational activities, healthcare, therapy and other services for children and adults with special needs. 251-304-1200

68th Baldwin County Fair 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM, 19477 Fairground Road Robertsdale, 36567 Baldwin County Fair. 251-947-3247 www.baldwincofair.com

Art of the Butterfly (Free) 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Eastern Shore Art Center, 401 Oak Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Join Eastern Shore Art Center for a day of Monarch Butterfly Fun in a

Lee Ann Womack 7:00 PM The Steeple, 251 St. Francis Street Mobile, 36602 Lee Ann Womack in concert. www.thesteeplemobile.ticketfly.com

Thursday September 20

Tea for Two (Your $2 donation will help support ongoing programs. )

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

Mobile Fashion Week 2018 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Fort of Colonial Mobile, 150 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 We are excited to take over The Fort of Colonial Mobile on September 22, 2018! We are doing it again for our 7th year of Fashion Week, we are bringing every facet of the fashion industry together to support a local charity. From models to designers, makeup artists to hairstylists, bringing them all together to support Camp Rap-A-Hope. This year we are hoping to donate the largest check over to this amazing camp for kids with cancer. www.mobfashionweek.com South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker”. 251-968-6721 www.sbct.biz

Sunday September 23

2018 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Mobile Bay Area 1:30 PM USS Battleship Memorial Parkway, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602 Join us for the 2018 Mobile Bay Area Walk to End Alzheimer’s. When you participate in Walk, your fundraising dollars fuel our mission, and your participation in the event helps to change the level of Alzheimer’s awareness in your community. 205-379-8065 www.act.alz.org/mobilebay South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker” 2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker”. 251-968-6721 www.sbct.biz Sunday Matinee: Silence of the Bees (Free) 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Beginning in the winter of 2006, millions of bees vanished from their hives without a trace. A precious pollinator of fruits and vegetables, the disappearing bees left billions of dollars of crops at risk and threatened our food supply. Join researchers as they scramble to discover why the honeybees are dying in record numbers— and to stop the epidemic in its tracks before it spreads further. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Thursday September 27

Tea for Two (Your $2 donation will help support ongoing programs. )

2:00 PM Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Come enjoy a cup of organic, Oolong Fairhope Tea and a different guest speaker every week! Speaker - Donnie Barrett – “On Yoga and Retirement.” Donnie has practiced yoga for 46 years. He will do his morning yoga routine and talk about the benefits he has enjoyed from this practice including how it has helped him be the magnificent Director of the Fairhope Museum of History for 11 years. 251-929-1471 www.fairhopeal.gov/departments/ museum

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FamilyCalendar Pints for Prostates 5:30 PM Fairhope Brewing Company, 914 Nichols Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Brought to you by Fairhope Urology and the Southern Cancer Center, Pints for Prostates is a fundraiser and awareness campaign. The brewery will donate $1 of every beer sold during the event to spreading awareness, testing, and treatment of prostate cancer. Vintage Affair 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Fort Whiting, 1630 South Broad Street Mobile, 36605 Join us for Vintage Affair benefiting the American Cancer Society. www.gala.acsevents.org

Friday September 28

Healthcare Hauntings II 8:00 PM Mobile Medical Museum, 1664 Springhill Avenue Mobile, 36606 Our fall fundraising event, Healthcare Hauntings, returns for a second year in a new, more grown-up format. Modeled after ultrarealistic haunted house attractions like Baton Rouge’s 13th Gate, Healthcare Hauntings will transform one of Mobile’s oldest homes with several “healthcare horror” scenarios performed by actors in indoor and outdoor areas. Visitors will encounter grave robbers, witches, sadistic dentists and quack doctors, diseaseridden patients, and a chainsaw-wielding surgeon. Up to 10 visitors at a time will pass through the house in three 15 to 20 minute rotations per hour. We will also feature food trucks from The Kraken (Friday) and Ben’s Burga Kaboose (Saturday) and a DJ! The Saturday matinee event on September 29th will be a lights-on, toned down version for visitors under the age of 18. 251-415-1109 www.mobilemedicalmuseum.org

Saturday September 29

Delta Dash 9:00 AM Lower Bryant’s Landing, 8900 Lower Bryants 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. The Delta Dash will take place on over three miles of wooded terrain where several obstacles will be encountered. Obstacles could be anything from crawling in the mud, wading through a creek, a mega slip-and-slide, scaling hay bales or something else (we aren’t going to tell you all our secrets). www.deltadash.org

Healthcare Hauntings II 1:00 PM Mobile Medical Museum, 1664 Springhill Avenue Mobile, 36606 Our fall fundraising event, Healthcare Hauntings, returns for a second year in a new, more grown-up format. Modeled after ultrarealistic haunted house attractions like Baton Rouge’s 13th Gate, Healthcare Hauntings will transform one of Mobile’s oldest homes with several “healthcare horror” scenarios performed by actors in indoor and outdoor areas. Visitors will encounter grave robbers, witches, sadistic dentists and quack doctors, diseaseridden patients, and a chainsaw-wielding surgeon. Up to 10 visitors at a time will pass through the house in three 15 to 20 minute rotations per hour. We will also feature food trucks from The Kraken (Friday) and Ben’s Burga Kaboose (Saturday) and a DJ! The Saturday matinee event on September 29th will be a lights-on, toned down version for visitors under the age of 18. 251-415-1109 www.mobilemedicalmuseum.org

3rd Annual Fire Prevention 5k and 1 Mile Fun Run 8:00 AM Meaher State Park, 5200 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort, 36527 Spanish Fort Fire Rescue Fire will be hosting our 3rd Annual Fire Prevention 5k and 1 Mile Fun Run on Saturday, September 29th. Please join us for a fun, family event as we raise money for our Fire Prevention Program. www.spanishfortfire.org

Hound Dog Music Festival 4:00 PM Hidden Lake, Barn & Chapel, 19437 County Road 9 Silverhill, 36576 A Music Festival benefiting the Baldwin County Humane Society. 251-331-5249

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FamilyCalendar Sunday September 30

30th Annual Jubilee Festival of Arts (Free ) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 1700 Main Street Daphne, 36526 The 30th Annual Jubilee Festival of Arts in Daphne Alabama is set to attract thousands to the oak-lined Main Street on September 29th and 30th. Art, music & seafood meet southern charm at this annual festival set along the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay. 251-928-6387 www.eschamber.com/page/JubileeFestival-Welcome Gift of Adoption Alabama Chapter Charity Auction Event 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Fairhope Brewing Company, 914 Nichols Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Join us for a fun-filled FREE charity auction event to support Gift of Adoption Alabama Chapter. The Goal of this event is to raise the funds needed to bring 3 children home to their forever families. $1 from every drink sold will go directly to Gift of Adoption. 100% of net revenue will be used to provide adoption assistance grants to complete the adoptions of vulnerable children into families in Alabama. www.giftofadoption.org/alauction/ Spanish Fort Fall Concert (Free) 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Spanish Fort Community Center, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 The Art Guild Show begins at 5:00pm, followed by the Mobile Pops at 6:00pm. www.themobilepops.com Need to Breath Concert 7:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheatre, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Need to Breath in concert. 251-224-1020 www.alwharf.com/amphitheater.php

Monday October 1

Moonlight Chassé Ballroom Dance Society ($7 for members and $10 for non-members)

Tuesday October 2

5 Rivers StoryTime “Giggle, Giggle, Quack”

(Free)

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. This week’s story is about Cows that can use a typewriter! 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. 10-11am, free, no registration necessary. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Make Meal Times Happy Times 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM, Thomas Medical Center in Daphne, 27961 US-98 #21 Daphne, 36532 A free workshop for parents of picky eaters. Discussions

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

include: Making challenging foods more appealing; How to introduce new foods; Determine pcky vs. complex eater. We will also discuss finding interventions for: Complex feeders; Medical complications; Oral motor weakness. Seating is limites so please call to RSVP by September 21. 251-279-3643 5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night (Free) 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. 7pm-8:30pm; Mobile Bay Sierra Club, 7pm-8:30pm; Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Wednesday October 3

Observe & Explore Day (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Graham Creek Nature Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, 36535 Theme for our October 3rd Observe & Explore event will focus on flying creatures associated with the Halloween season. Bats and Owls. FREE Nature learning activities for children and families. www.grahamcreekpreserve.org Alabama Coastal BirdFest Various Locations, Join us Oct. 3–6 for the 15th annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest, a birding and nature festival! There will be many opportunities to see birds, alligators, wildflowers, dolphins, and other wildlife—and learn about their habitats. Plus, we will offer workshops at 5 Rivers Delta Center. BirdFest showcases great bird- and nature-watching spots all around Baldwin and Mobile counties, including Fort Morgan, Dauphin Island, Weeks Bay, MobileTensaw Delta, Bayou La Batre, Forever Wild Grand Bay Savanna, Gulf Shores, and more. BirdFest is a great adventure no matter your level of birding experience. 251-990-5004 www.weeksbay.org/events/alabamacoastal-birdfest/

Thursday October 4

Friends of the Foley Library Bookstore Sale 1:00 PM 4:00 PM, Foley Public Library, 319 East Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535 Half price on ALL BOOKSTORE ITEMS! Add to your personal library or give the gift of reading to family and friends. Great selection of used books for sale at fabulous prices. … www.visitfoley.com Chicago Street Supper Club 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Chicago Street, Foley, 36535 Kick off the Festival of Flavor by attending the Chicago Street Supper Club on Thursday, October 4 from 6-10 pm. The four-course dinner will be served on Chicago Street in Foley. www.alabamafestivalofflavor.com Blackberry Smoke 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Since emerging from Atlanta in the early 00’s, Blackberry Smoke has become known for a singular sound indebted to classic rock, blues, country, and folk. www.mobilesaenger.com/events/blackberry-smoke/

Alabama Coastal BirdFest Various Locations, Join us Oct. 3–6 for the 15th annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest, a birding and nature festival! There will be many opportunities to see birds, alligators, wildflowers, dolphins, and other wildlife—and learn about their habitats. Plus, we will offer workshops at 5 Rivers Delta Center. BirdFest showcases great bird- and nature-watching spots all around Baldwin and Mobile counties, including Fort Morgan, Dauphin Island, Weeks Bay, Mobile-Tensaw Delta, Bayou La Batre, Forever Wild Grand Bay Savanna, Gulf Shores, and more. BirdFest is a great adventure no matter your level of birding experience. 251-990-5004 www.weeksbay.org/events/alabamacoastal-birdfest/

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Friday October 5

First Friday Art Walk 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope, 36532 Fairhope First Friday Art Walk Visit our local merchants in Downtown Fairhope as they open late and highlight the art community. Art Walk happens every first Friday of each month from 6-8 p.m. Alabama Coastal BirdFest Various Locations, Join us Oct. 3–6 for the 15th annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest, a birding and nature festival! There will be many opportunities to see birds, alligators, wildflowers, dolphins, and other wildlife—and learn about their habitats. Plus, we will offer workshops at 5 Rivers Delta Center. BirdFest showcases great bird- and nature-watching spots all around Baldwin and Mobile counties, including Fort Morgan, Dauphin Island, Weeks Bay, Mobile-Tensaw Delta, Bayou La Batre, Forever Wild Grand Bay Savanna, Gulf Shores, and more. BirdFest is a great adventure no matter your level of birding experience. 251-990-5004 www.weeksbay.org/events/alabamacoastal-birdfest/ Ten65 Music Festival (Free) Downtown Mobile, Mobile, 36602 Converge on downtown Mobile and experience Ten65—a free, two day event that celebrates music, technology, and the culture of this awesome city on the rise. www.ten65festival.com

Saturday October 6

Bird and Conservation Expo (Free) 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 450 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532 Exhibits, vendors, artists, hands-on activities for all ages, live raptor demonstrations, sea creature touch tanks, and lots more! FREE, 9am-4pm at Faulkner State Community College, Fairhope. 251-990-5004 www.weeksbay.org/events/alabamacoastal-birdfest/ Festival of Flavor 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Downtown Foley, Foley, 36535 Come sample some of the best food, beer, wine and much more! The festival will be full of tastings from food trucks to world renowned Chefs. The Festival will also have TV’s from small to large so you won’t miss your favorite Football games. www.alabamafestivalofflavor.com 2nd Annual Gulf Seafood Gala 6:00 PM Isle of Dauphin Club, 100 Orleans Drive Dauphin Island, 36528 Come enjoy tastings of delectable Gulf seafood prepared and presented by local and regional chefs. The event will also celebrate the 60th anniversary of historic Isle Dauphine Club. Local art, live musical entertainment and adult beverages will round out a wonderful evening on Dauphin Island.Proceeds will benefit Dauphin Island Heritage and Arts Council. www.eventbrite.com

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Calendar Mobile Symphony presents Roman Festivals 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Join us on a musical journey to the Eternal City as Respighi’s cinematic musical style brings ancient Rome to life. 251-432-2010 www.mobilesymphony.org Alabama Coastal BirdFest Various Locations, Join us Oct. 3–6 for the 15th annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest, a birding and nature festival! There will be many opportunities to see birds, alligators, wildflowers, dolphins, and other wildlife—and learn about their habitats. Plus, we will offer workshops at 5 Rivers Delta Center. BirdFest showcases great bird- and nature-watching spots all around Baldwin and Mobile counties, including Fort Morgan, Dauphin Island, Weeks Bay, Mobile-Tensaw Delta, Bayou La Batre, Forever Wild Grand Bay Savanna, Gulf Shores, and more. BirdFest is a great adventure no matter your level of birding experience. 251-990-5004 www.weeksbay.org/events/alabamacoastal-birdfest/ Living History Crew Drill USS Battleship Memorial Parkway, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602 Come see history come to life as our historical reenactors board the USS ALABAMA and the USS DRUM. See what life was like on these naval vessels during WWII. The men share the stories of our original crewmen and demonstrate jobs aboard the battleship and submarine. Don’t miss the air attack and “Call to Battle Stations” at 1:00 p.m. on the main deck of the ALABAMA. 251-433-2703 www.ussalabama.com

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Ten65 Music Festival (Free) Downtown Mobile, Mobile, 36602 Converge on downtown Mobile and experience Ten65—a free, two day event that celebrates music, technology, and the culture of this awesome city on the rise. www.ten65festival.com

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Mobile Symphony presents Roman Festivals 2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Join us on a musical journey to the Eternal City as Respighi’s cinematic musical style brings ancient Rome to life. 251-432-2010 www.mobilesymphony.org Family Fun Day & Blessing of the Pets (Free) 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Meyer Park, 400 East 22nd Avenue Gulf Shores, 36542 Family Fun Day & Blessing of the Pets hosted by Gulf Shores United Methodist Church. Everyone is invited to our annual Family Fun Day! Hot dogs, Popcorn, Snow Cones, Inflatables, Pet Treats, Games & more! Please bring your pets on a leash or in a carrier! 251-968-2411 Baldwin County Pops Recital 6:00 PM Henry George Bluff Park, Fairhope, 36532 Baldwin Pops Concert - Bernstein, Jazz, and Our Southern Roots

Tuesday October 9

5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night (Free) 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. 7pm-8pm; Mobile Bay

Audubon Society, 7pm-8pm; Alabama Hiking Trail Society. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Wednesday October 10

Disney Junior Dance Party On Tour 6:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Are you ready to DANCE?!? Disney Junior Dance Party On Tour is an ALL NEW interactive live concert experience. Sing and dance along to Disney Junior’s greatest hits with your favorite characters. Kids of all ages and their families are all invited to the biggest dance party around! www.mobilesaenger.com/events/disney-junior-danceparty-on-tour

Thursday October 11

A Night Honoring Heroes 5:30 PM Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water

Street Mobile, 36602 The University of South Alabama Medical Center will host “A Night Honoring Heroes” on Oct. 11, 2018. The gala will benefit USA Medical Center’s Level 1 Trauma Center and will honor the courage and dedication of first responders and medical professionals who help patients survive after a traumatic injury. www.usahealthsystem.com/heroes

Classes/Meetings Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) Offering Adoptive Family Support Group Meetings in Baldwin County the 2nd Thursday of each month. The meeting is held at 3 Circle Church, 10274 Highway 104, Fairhope. from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Parent, Youth/Teen group and childcare is available. Topic discussions by adoption professionals and ceu’s for foster families are offered.

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SupportGroups For more information call 251-460-2727 or 1-800-4891886 or www.childrensaid.org. APAC also offers free counsuling services to adoptive families. Bridge Support Group A place where parents with similar experiences come together to share stories, advice and love. These families have had babies who: were stillborn, born with a lethal anomaly (such as Trisomy 13, Trisomy 18, skeletal dysplasia, anencephaly) or had a baby that only lived in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Our families are from all over the Gulf Coast and all have beautiful stories to tell. Meets 1st Tuesday of every month, 5:30pmuntil. Dinner is served. 1st floor conference room of Strada Center, 1601 Center Street, Mobile. Contact: Rene Sprague RN, MSN rgilstrapsprague@health. southalabama.edu, 251-610-5264. Please RSVP if you plan to attend. Celebration MOPS Fairhope (Meets During School Year Only) Celebration MOPS meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. at Celebration Church, 8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope. Childcare is provided and is included in the fees. There is an annual $23.95 MOPS International membership fee and $30 per semester. Call for info at 251-928-0343 or like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/celebrationmopsfairhopeal. Family Center’s Positive Parenting Classes are held on Tuesday mornings 9:30-11:30 am and Responsible Parenting with focus on fathers, co-parenting and economic stability/child support are Wednesday mornings 9 am-11 am and Monday evenings 6 pm8pm. Call 251-947-4700 to register for either class. at The Family Center is located at 22671 Hwy. 59 South, Robertsdale. Fairhope MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) (Meets During School Year Only) We meet 9:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. every 2nd & 4th Monday (during the school year) at Fairhope United Methodist Church. All mothers of young children are welcome. Email fairhopemops@ yahoo.com for how to register. Father Central of Daphne *Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men, $75 giftcard upon completion. Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Call 251-626-1610 to register, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Chill Skills” - Anger Management by appointment. $25 giftcard upon completion. Call 251-626-1610 schedule, The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Nurturing Parenting, everything you need to know but were afraid to ask. Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Jump in on any Thursday! Call 251-626-1610 to register, 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne. Shepherd’s Place (Christian Life Center) Ministry for memory & physically challenged. Mondays & Wednesdays 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 South Section Street, Fairhope. 928-1148. SOS (Survivors of Suicide) This group is for adults who has ever lost a loved one to suicide. SOS meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of EVERY month from 6:30 to approximately 8:00 p.m. at the Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 S. Section Street, Fairhope. The support group is facilitated by a professional and co-facilitated by two survivors. For information, please email jlbarber5@bellsouth.net or call 251-455-6453.

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

South Baldwin Regional Medical Center offers the following classes: Your entire family can take part in several informative classes designed to help moms and dads welcome their special new addition to the family with more confidence. Classes cover topics including: Having A Healthy Pregnancy Nutrition, discomforts of pregnancy, warning signs of complications, and relaxation exercises. One session. $10. Prepared Childbirth Classes (Once a week for four weeks). Cost: $30 Week 1: Begin the Stages of Labor: The labor and delivery process, signs and stages of labor, options for coping, pain management, vaginal delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 2: Delivery and Cesarean Birth: A review of complications that may arise, use of special equipment, complete the stages of labor, cesarean delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 3: New Born and Postpartum Care: Newborn appearance, caring for the newborn, infant safety, recognizing complications, relaxation exercises, and choosing a pediatrician. What to expect after delivery, understanding the physical and emotional changes to your body, and relaxation exercises. Week 4: The Art of Breast Feeding: The benefits of breast feeding for mother and baby, anatomy and physiology of the breast, how to breastfeed, and common difficulties. One session. • Tiny Toes members may enroll in Yoga, Water Aerobics and Expectant Mother Exercise classes through the Snook Family YMCA. The fee is $5 a class. There is a $3 fee for child care. There is no fee if you are already a member of the YMCA. All classes are located at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center–1613 North McKenzie Street Foley. Tuesday evenings 6:30 8:30 p.m. Classroom A. • Please plan to attend the Healthy Pregnancy Class during your first trimester and the Prepared Childbirth Classes anytime after your 24th week of pregnancy. For more information or to enroll please call the OB Educator at 949-3676 to schedule. Gift of Life The Gift of Life is a required maternity care program for Medicaid patients or Medicaid-eligible patients. The Gift of Life Program provides a caring system of prenatal services; education and care coordination for expectant moms and their babies. For info contact 949-3781. Thomas Hospital offers the following classes: Breastfeeding Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Monthly, first Tuesday, 6 - 8 p.m. Free. Infant CPR and Safety Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Pre-registration required. To register call 279-1373. Saturdays, 4 - 6 p.m. Moving Through Labor Childbirth Classes Three or four-week prepared childbirth class series which prepares the mother-to-be and her support partner for the labor and delivery experience. $30 fee for the class series. Thomas Fitness Center, (Fairhope) Mondays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope) Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Tuesdays, 6-8:30 p.m. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Pre-registration required. Call 251- 279-1373 or visit www.thomashospital.com for upcoming classes and registration. Natural Childbirth Classes, Fertility Awareness, Mother’s Comfort, Exercise and Nutrition For class schedule or information call Geralyn Piizzotti, 251- 928-9396. Yourbodyyourbirth@bellsouth.net.

Newborn Basics Class Held on the second Monday of every month from 6 – 8 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Free. No Pre-registration required. Pre-admission Sessions 6 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Sibling Class Thomas Hospital Fitness Center (Fairhope). Preregistration required. Call 279-1373. 10-11 a.m. Thomas Hospital offers the following support groups for the community: Alanon (Alcoholics Anonymous) Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 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. 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! www.easternshoreparents.com

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Alpha

A.X.L.

MPAA Rating: PG 13 Overall: B+ Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A Alpha is a slow movie. I don’t mean that as a criticism but as a statement of fact. Alpha moves at a deliberate pace, gradually unfolding the plot, carefully building up relationships between the human and animal characters, and lovingly sweeping over its awe-inspiring locations in Canada and Iceland. The story begins 20,000 years ago in Ice Age Europe. Our protagonist, Keda (Kodi Smit-McPhee) is the son of Tau, the chief, played with dignified assurance by Johannes Haukur Johannesson. It is time for the annual buffalo hunt, and Keda is finally old enough to join the other hunters and become a man. Tau’s assurance is tested quickly. Luckily for Keda, aid comes in an unexpected package when he is stalked by wolves and knives one of the creatures in the leg. The teen develops a sense of fellow feeling for the injured animal, who he names Alpha, and nurses it back to health. The relationship that develops between Keda and Alpha is critical to their mutual survival. When it comes to family viewing, Alpha has some unusual considerations. It is almost entirely free of objectionable content, aside from hunting related violence and situations of extreme danger. That being said, this film is not likely to be a smash hit with family audiences. Its biggest drawback for kids and teens comes from its dialogue. Spoken in an invented Cro-Magnon language, the film is subtitled throughout. through a barren (albeit beautiful) landscape. On the flip side, filmgoers of any age who enjoy survival movies, history or nature documentaries, and who are prepared to be patient, will find their niche with Alpha.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: C+ Sexual Content: B+ Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: BAnimatronic dog meets bullied boy in A.X.L. (pronounced “axel”), a film that attempts a technological upgrade on the old “boy-and-his-dog” premise. A day of dirt biking in the hills leaves Miles (Alex Neustaedter) abandoned by his “friend” Sam (Alex MacNicoll) and his group of cronies. Yet this newkid-in-town and high school senior isn’t nearly as fazed as I would be when this unexpected alone time leads to the discovery of a giant, robotic Rottweiler stashed in an abandoned shipping container. Not smart enough to let sleeping dogs lie, Miles manages to awaken the mechanical mutt who then tears after him, believing the boy to be an enemy. Fortunately, Mile’s driving and stunting abilities are good enough to trick A.X.L. into sailing off a cliff, and landing in a sad mess of twisted metal. Even after having his life endangered, Miles is determined to patch this newfound pooch back together. Using some tools, convenient supplied by A.X.L. himself, the computer-programed pup soon boots up again. Acknowledging the teen’s kindness, A.X.L. moves his rescuer’s profile into the “friend” folder. The best part of this movie is the visual creation of A.X.L. and the concept of designing an artificial animal for the purpose of protection. Also appreciated are the relatively few content concerns. A handful of mild profanities, some physical skirmishes (with brief blood seen) and revealing female clothing round up the greatest issues. If you’re in the 8 to 12-year-old crowd, A.X.L. will likely offer a fun adventure. If not, it may just feel like you’re watching a hybrid hound begging for a sequel.

The Bookshop

The Darkest Minds

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: B Sexual Content: AProfanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: B In the small East Anglian town of Harborough, circa 1959. Florence Green (Emily Mortimer), a middle-aged widow, has decided to fulfill her dream and start her own bookshop. She buys a rundown building and opens for business. Unfortunately for Florence, the local grand dame, Violet Gamart (Patricia Clarkson), has determined that the space would be the perfect site for an arts center. Violet is used to getting what she wants and is not going to let anything stand in her way. The rest of the movie is a battle between these two determined women. Florence, on her side, has courage and two allies: her eleven-year-old shop assistant, Christine Gipping (Honor Kneafsey), and local recluse and bibliophile, Edmund Brundish (Bill Nighy). In comparison, Violet has deep pockets, no moral scruples, connections with local government, and a nephew in parliament. It is disappointing that this conflict fails to generate much excitement. The Bookshop should be better than it is. Adapted from Penelope Fitzgerald’s bestselling novel, it has an excellent cast and enjoys a beautiful setting. However, the pacing is slow and uneven, and the movie is a good 20 minutes too long. On the bright side, this movie has very minor content issues. There are a handful of mild profanities and some smoking and social drinking. This is not a movie for children, who would not be interested in the plot. But there are no reasons why teens or adults shouldn’t watch The Bookshop. Sadly, there just aren’t any reasons why they would want to.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: CProfanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: A Teens with special powers. Adults who try to stop them. Sound familiar? That’s because it is. The Darkest Minds isn’t blazing any new trails for Hollywood but it ticks all the boxes for a teenage sci-fi action movie. The beginning of the movie is disturbing, especially when protagonist, Ruby Daly, (played with big-eyed luminosity by Amandla Stenberg) is taken away to the camps at the age of ten, where the inmates are separated by their color-coded gifts. Six years later, Ruby escapes, meets up with three other fugitives - Liam Stewart (Harris Dickinson), Chubs (Peyton Wich), and Zu (Miya Cech). The group goes on the run looking a rumored children’s settlement where they can live without fear. When they find it, they discover that everything isn’t what it seems. Parents will want to be aware of issues around violence and sexual content. These are significant enough that the movie is not suitable for younger children, although teens will likely enjoy it. The most upsetting episodes involve the intersection of mind control and violence. A male teenage character in a position of authority attempts to sexually assault a teenage girl. It isn’t clear if the abuser is inside her mind or is assaulting her physical body. The attack is not graphic, no clothing is removed, and she escapes from him very quickly. The relationship between Ruby and Liam illustrates the most positive messages found in The Darkest Minds. This media portrayal of an adolescent love story is unusually wholesome.

Eastern Shore Parents I September 2018

www.easternshoreparents.com

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