Trick or Trot 5k and Scary Scurry Fun Run benefiting
USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital Evaluation Center Costume Contests Trick-or-Treating Kids Activities
Food and Drinks Family Friendly Music and Entertainment
Friday, October 24, 2014 at 5:30pm
Moulton Tower on USA Campus For more information, go to
cwhtrickortrot2014.eventbrite.com USACWHospital @USACWHospital
September2014
Volume 7 Number 4
52 Columns
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Publisher’s Note Lynn Knighton
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Living With Children
Adapted Toys for Kids with Disabilities Easy and inexpensive ways to adapt toys for a variety of play.
John Rosemond
Help for Your Child on the Spectrum
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Kids Health Watch
Social development and life skills for the autistic child.
sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
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Dave Says Dave Ramsey
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Get This! Gerry Paige Smith
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Centsibly Southern Chic Laura Handey
2014 Special Needs Resource Guide
You’ve Got It, Mom!
Discover 10 ways to boost your self-confidence as a mother, Local and national resources assist you in caring for your child. and as a woman.
On The Cover Cooper Long (13), son of Flora and Fred Long, and little brother to Justin Givens. Cooper enjoys bowling, swimming, reading books, playing on his iPad, and most of all, spending time with his uncle, Mike Long. 1
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A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
Departments 6
Bits and Pieces 20
School Bits 82
Family Calendar 92
Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine
Publisher’sNote I love the Foster Parent commercials. You know the ones where the mom and dad are trying so hard to be the “perfect” parents, but despite their efforts, things don’t exactly go as planned. If you have not seen one of these commercials, YouTube “Adoption from Foster Care Sunscreen,” “Adoption from Foster Care Vacation,” or “Adoption from Foster Care Outdoors.” They are hilarious! I love these commercials because they show real parents. What a refreshing relief from the “Pinterest Perfect” and “Facebook Fabulous” society we live in. Don’t get me wrong, I love Pinterest. I spend many a day in carpool line planning holiday dinners Martha Stewart would be envious of. Not to mention the canning and craft projects that are sure to win me a blue ribbon at the next county fair. I think we all love sites like these because we get to imagine the great and wonderful things we will accomplish one day. It is kind of like playing with a doll house for grown ups. On Pinterest, my house is well organized. I am very well read, not to mention a fabulous decorator and chef. However, in reality, I will assure you my life is quite different. While I have more “pins” than I care to admit, I think I have actually only attempted one project...curly Q hot dogs. Oh, and there was that whole shaving cream/Cheeto game we played. In retrospect, I think a more accurate site name in my case would be “Pretendterest.” Sometimes the passion to be “perfect” can make parents feel anything but perfect. If you are feeling a little less confident than you would like, check out You’ve Got It, Mom! 10 Tips to Boost Self-Confidence, by Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. She has some wonderful thoughts on getting back the confidence you desire. Each September we publish our annual Special Needs Issue dedicated to families of children with special needs. During this time I have the pleasure of working with some of the most amazing parents who share with me some insight on what they go through each and every day. One mom, Erica, has a son with Phelan McDermid Syndrome. She was telling me how excited she was because her 5-year-old son had learned to walk, something she was told would never happen. Erica was full of joy, love and strength, and even said that her son was “the closest thing to perfection on this earth,” and has made her and her husband better people. What a wonderful perspective she has on life. While she was very joyful and strong, Erica opened up stating the stress and worries about the future could be overwhelming at times. “We need hugs and encouragement and sometimes a shoulder to cry on,” Erica shared. She also reminded us to not forget the dads, who are often left out. “People are more likely to tell me that I am doing a great job or that Carter is lucky to have me, but my husband rarely hears these things. He needs as much love and support as I do.” Then she gave a wonderful piece of advice saying, “The next time you see parents struggling with their special needs child in a doctor’s office, grocery store, or restaurant, offer a kind word or an encouraging smile. I promise you that it will really make a difference.” In honor of local families of children with special needs, we have put together an issue full of what we hope will be helpful resources. Beginning on page 56, our Special Needs Guide for Families will help you find therapists, support groups, recreational activities and much more. We have also included other helpful articles on topics including turning everyday toys into adaptive toy fun, life skill lessons to encourage independence, navigating IEP, and swallowing therapy. As we start a new month, I encourage you to let go of the pressure to be “perfect” and enjoy the wonderful blessings each day brings!
Lynn
lynn@easternshoreparents.com
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
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The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source
Eastern Shore Parents Magazine, is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant, role in our community. Eastern Shore Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Christa Weinberg Contributing Writers Laura Handey Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. Varina Mead Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Robert L. Rux, M.D. James D. Sears, Ed.D, J.D. Gerry Paige Smith
Cover Photography Janel Gay www.janelgayphotography.com President Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com
Advertising Opportunities Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall Tracie Calvert ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099 Ad Design Tim Welch
Visit us online at www.easternshoreparents.com Eastern Shore Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 374, Montrose, Alabama, 36559. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 929-2099. Eastern Shore Parents is copyrighted 2014 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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Don’t let cough & flu tackle you.
Stay in the game. Get your flu and Tdap shots today. Flu can sideline you for up to a month. And pertussis (whooping cough) is highly contagious. Adults and teens often pass it on to younger children who can become seriously ill. Getting protected is quick and inexpensive. Talk to your healthcare provider, and for or
more information visit download the ADPH app. 3
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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond
Nip ‘Sassiness’ in the Bud Q:
The “sassiness” that I have heard so much about from my friends started a few months ago with my 5-year-old daughter. She will say things to me that I actually find myself tongue-tied on how or what to say to correct her. Sometimes, she apologizes, which tells me she knows she’s talking disrespectfully to me. What do you think about ten minutes of time out for this sort of thing? Also, on a recent vacation with another family in which there are two other girls around the same age, my daughter became very competitive. She constantly wanted to “race” to see who would be first, for example. Is this normal for this age?
A: I take it your friends think sassiness is normal for this age child. That may be true today, but sassiness was far from the norm two-plus generations ago. Furthermore, there are still a considerable number of kids this age who are very respectful of adults.
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
It is certainly true that television and electronics in general have altered the behavior of children. Too many of today’s kids, from relatively early on, pick up a very inappropriate manner of talking to adults from characters on television sitcoms. After all, this sassy manner of addressing and responding to adults is almost always followed by the laugh track. This is one of several reasons why I am completely and unequivocally opposed to allowing young children any exposure to television outside of educational programs on channels like Discovery and History. But even without the toxicity of supposedly family fare on television, young kids often pick up sassiness from friends. When she was 8, my daughter had a friend in the neighborhood who talked to her mother like she was a servant or a peer. Amy would sometimes come home from said friend’s house using the same
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tone with us. When this happened—and without giving her a warning—we would confine Amy to her room for the rest of the day. That curtailed her loose tongue rather quickly. In that regard, I seriously doubt that ten minutes of time out is going to do the trick. If you want this to stop, and you certainly should, then you need to make an impression on your daughter. Time out for an offense of this sort is an example of what I call “trying to stop a charging elephant with a fly swatter.” I recommend the “Amy cure.” As for the competition thing, I strongly encourage you not to give it a second thought. Kids work these sorts of things out among themselves. In fact, intervention on the part of well-intentioned (albeit anxious) adults can prevent children from going through the trial-and-error of certain social processes. Besides, it’s good to know that the natural drive to compete will survive efforts on the part of many schools to squash it by doing absolutely silly things like banning dodgeball.
Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
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American Cancer Society Vintage Affair Gala and Late Night Party
Join the American Cancer Society in a spectacular event to create a world with more birthdays! Mingle among community leaders at one of Mobile’s premier philanthropic events. An evening filled with elegant hors d’oeuvres from Clifton Morrissette, the smooth sounds of Swing Mobile and exciting silent and live auctions! Wine tasting of varieties awaits you provided by Mobile's Red or White! Let's join together to save lives... even if it takes all night! Thursday October 9, at The Alabama Cruise Terminal from 6:00 p.m. - 12 midnight. Tickets to the Vintage Affair from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. are $100 and include entry to Late Night Party. Tickets to the Late Night Party from 9:00 p.m. – midnight are $30 per person. Please visit gala.acsevents.org for more information.
Alabama Coastal Cleanup
Show your support and concern for Alabama’s waterways by participating in the 27th Annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup scheduled for Saturday, September 21st, from 8:00 a.m. until noon. You or your organization can make a difference by volunteering to clean up our cherished coastal area. Join us this year as we continue to make Alabama the Beautiful! For more information on how to get involved please visit www.alcoastalcleanup.com or call (251) 621-1216.
Polo at the Point
The 2014 Polo at the Point, is scheduled for Saturday, October 18 at Sonny HillClearwater Polo Complex in Point Clear. Organized by all volunteers, the Gulf Coast’s premier charity sporting event has designated Thomas Hospital and Mitchell Cancer Institute as the main beneficiaries. Event highlights include world-class polo, gourmet cuisine, champagne, divot stomping, tailgating fun, reserved seating, garden party attire in the luncheon tent, Mercedes Draw Down, Silent Auction, football sports center, Night-Time Player’s Party and much more. Tickets range from $10 (tailgating) to $150. For more information visit www.poloatthepoint.com or call 251 928-9704. www.facebook.com/poloatthepoint
Rescheduled LA Gumbo Festival to be Hosted at The Wharf
The rescheduled 2014 Lower Alabama (L.A.) Gumbo Festival will be held at The Wharf in Orange Beach, on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. The upcoming one-day-only festival will have arts and crafts vendors, gumbo masters competition and live music. Attendees will be able to enjoy a food competition, along with college football via a huge outdoor jumbotron and on hundreds of flat screen TVs located inside Baumhower’s Restaurant and Compleat Angler Seafood Grille and Bar at The Wharf. For this specific L.A. Gumbo Festival, the renowned 4,000-lb. pot that normally serves the “World’s Largest Bowl of Gumbo” will be used for a different purpose. Attendees will have the opportunity to place nonperishable food items in the pot, all of which will be donated to local non-profit organizations. In addition to the open-to-the-public Saturday event, there will be a private Wharf Street Party for all festival participants featuring music, spirits and light hors d’oeuvres on Friday, Oct. 3, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. For more information on the rescheduled L.A. Gumbo Festival, please contact Joy McCord at 251.424.1242.
Jubilee Race to Benefit Bayside Medical Missions
Bayside Medical Missions, a local non-profit that provides orthopaedic care in under-developed countries, invites you to participate in the certified Jubilee Race for Life 5K & 1-Mile fun Run, to be held Saturday, September 20th. Everyone who enters will receive a free race tee. While pre-registration is encouraged, Day of Race Registration opens at 6:30 a.m. The 5K starts at 8 a.m. and Fun Run follows at 9 a.m. The race starts at Daphne Baptist Church ball field, 1515 6th Street, Daphne, on the corner of College Ave and 6th Street. Unique awards are presented in 15 age categories! Early registration before September 12th is $20 for adults, $17 children under age 15. The Fun Walk/Run is $13. Children under 7 are free with a registered adult (no tee shirt). Registration after September 10th is $25 for adults, $20 for children under 15 and $15 for the Fun Walk/Run.” For more information on the race or to register visit www.jubileeraceforlife.org. Online registration is available through Active.com. For more info, visit www. baysidemedicalmissions.org or call 251-928-4248. Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
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Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Set for September 18
Wind Creek Casino & Hotel presents the 8th Annual ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun’ benefit for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile on Thursday, September 18, from 5:30 – 9:00 p.m. at the Alabama Cruise Terminal. 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. Proceeds from Girls Just Wanna Have Fun will directly support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile. Tickets for Girls Just Wanna Have Fun are $50 in advance and $60 at the door. Attendees also have the opportunity to purchase tickets for a stylish “Purse-Onality” at $25 or $50 which includes a purse – and a surprise gift inside valued at that (or more!) For more information and to purchase advance tickets, please visit www.rmhcmobile.org or call 251-694-6873.
Inaugural Boots & BBQ Barn Bash Kicks off at Camp Grace
The inaugural Boots & BBQ Barn Bash kicks off on Thursday, Oct. 2, to benefit the Children’s of Alabama’s Pediatric Rheumatology Clinic in Mobile. Guests are invited to enjoy an evening of live music and barbecue at Camp Grace, located at 11081 Wanda Drive. Festivities will start at 6:30 p.m., with live music from local country band, the Modern Eldorados. Guests are encouraged to wear their best pair of cowboy boots and enjoy s’mores, hayrides and bonfires. Moe’s Original Bar B Que will provide their awardwinning barbecue and sides for dinner. The Boots & BBQ Barn Bash is presented by Children’s of Alabama and rheum4yal, an advocacy group that works with children across Alabama suffering from juvenile arthritis. The event will honor 6-year-old Children’s of Alabama patient, Mary Carlton Johnson of Mobile. Mary Carlton was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis at the age of two and continues to receive frequent injections to manage her pain until her arthritis reaches a dormant phase. Her family remains hopeful for a cure and works closely with the rheum4yal Admission is $60 per person and $500 per table. To register online, visit www.tinyurl.com/Rheum4YalBarnBash.
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extraordinary Children, exCeptional Caregivers. Thomas Hospital’s Pediatric Rehabilitation program provides comprehensive care for children in need of occupational, physical and speech therapy. Whether you are a parent or caregiver of a child with special needs, our skilled professionals are here to help guide you through the journey of rehabilitation. Each therapy program is designed to meet the unique needs of each child.
Our pediatric therapists are trained to treat children with: • Autism • Muscular Dystrophy • Cerebral Palsy • Sensory Issues • Feeding Difficulties • Difficulty Talking To schedule a tour of our facility, contact our Pediatric Rehabilitation department at 251-279-1640.
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Join Your Family at the Table on Sept. 22
As children age, it is important to build trust with them and keep the lines of communication open so that if at any point they begin to feel increased pressure to experiment with smoking, drinking and using drugs they can feel comfortable talking to you about it. Join parents across the nation in making a special commitment to your children on Monday, September 22nd at The Family Table, in your home! Photo Contest for Mobile and Baldwin County Residents: Pictures of your family having a meal together can be submitted throughout the month of September by email to mhadley@drugeducation.org or by text to 251-377-0449. Send in a photo along with a caption of your family dining together for display on the Drug Education Council’s Facebook Page! Winners will be notified Friday, October 3rd and rewarded with gift cards for groceries!
Orange Beach Library Announces Ambassador Program for Youth
The Orange Beach Public Library announces the Makerspace Ambassador Program, designed to engage kids and teens in learning to use 3D printing technology with the library's new MakerBot Replicator 3D printer, then have them teach that technology to others. To be accepted into the program, interested young people must have their parent or guardian's permission and will be asked to design and print a 3D project of their own using tinkercad.com, free of charge. Priority will be given to participants in the 2014 Summer Reading program, and only a limited number of Ambassadorships are available! Ambassadors will work with Reference Librarian Louise Daileigh and Library Director Steven Gillis. Once Ambassadors have learned their skills, they will be encouraged to teach them to others in the library's computer lab with the help of Louise Daileigh. For more information about the Ambassador program and what kinds of projects can be made with the MakerBot Replicator, contact the Orange Beach Public Library at 251-981-2923 or see our website at www.orangebeachlibrary.org under Info Services. Pictured, Happy Octopus waving and a teapot created using Orange Beach Public Library’s new 3D printer.
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The Grounds Takes Huge Steps to Offer Unparalleled Customer Service at the Greater Gulf State Fair
In an effort to take the next step to transform the Greater Gulf State Fair to the cleanest, safest, and most family-friendly event outside of Disney Parks and Resorts, The Grounds sent its staff to training at the Disney Institute's course on guest service to adopt the organization’s best practices in guest experiences. To compliment this effort, The Grounds hired approximately 12 former Disney employees to enhance the new culture of a service-first attitude and to implement these new customer service efforts. “The Grounds staff and I have spent around 100 hours at Disney studying their remarkable customerservice program,” said Scott Tindle, executive director of The Grounds. “There are many things that the Disney Corporation does that we could never do based on our business realities. However, there are a great deal of processes, strategies, and techniques Disney uses that are strictly effort and planning based. We have identified those accomplish-able items and will be integrating them into the culture of the Fair and the Grounds' year-round events. We are committed to becoming the cleanest, safest, and most familyfriendly event anywhere from Orlando to Anaheim." The hallmark of the Fair's guest service efforts will take place through a new program called the "Training Grounds" where former Disney employees will mentor like-minded volunteers who want to work for Disney's College Program. A sampling of the new guest service items that will be at the 2014 Greater Gulf State Fair include: Disney-style waste cans and waste removal procedures; A complete non-smoking venue; A newly created "Baby Center" where parents can change their babies in a safe and clean environment; A redesigned and remodeled First Aid Center; Enhanced Signage and Mapping; Parking lot Trams to escort guests to the ticket office efficiently; A redesigned guest entry system; Removal of all portable comfort stations replaced by heated and cooled trailer comfort stations. You can experience these updates at The Grounds at the Greater Gulf State Fair from Oct. 24 – Nov. 2. This year’s Fair will feature a new theme “Celebrate the Coast,” as well as more than 30 adult rides, 30 kid rides and a must-see entertainment line-up including Yo Gabba Gabba, The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Octonauts! Also, new to the Fair this year is “The Grounds Experience,” which will highlight unique entertainment experiences that embrace all things coastal including the Live Shark Encounter, Sea Lion Splash, Live Sting Ray Encounter, and Giant Sandbox Creation Station. Other highlights include a 250-ton sand sculpture by acclaimed sculpting group Team Sandtastic, the local art festival Arts Alive! where spectators can enjoy more than 80 exhibits and booths from local artists, and the South Alabama Film Festival which will bring one-of-a-kind film viewing to the Fair! To learn more, please visit, TheGroundsMobile.com.
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New Children’s Book Written to Increase Awareness of Children with Special Needs
Connor 0'Brien was born with Cerebral Palsy and utilizes a wheelchair and communication device as means to travel and communicate with everyone. Last year Connor's father, Richard O'Brien was inspired to write a book with the hopes of increasing awareness that children with special needs truly have unique gifts and should be recognized as differently-abled, not disabled. Mr. Connor says this was "truly an inspiration from God" and is the first book in a series of books dealing with differently-abled children or "Angel Kids". The illustrator is sixteen year old student at Mary G. Montgomery, Morgan Mabry. This book and the books to follow in the series are written not only as a ministry but as a fundraising opportunity to promote a positive message. The O'Brien family is currently working with United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile for distribution of the book with all proceeds going to their fundraising activities. For more information on the first book, “CJ and the Angel Kids: The Case of the Missing Cookies”, and other books to soon follow, please call 645-0568 or contact United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile at 479-4900.
3rd Annual Blues & Grooves Festival
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Join us September 13 at the Malaga Inn for the 3rd Annual Blues & Grooves Festival. The Blues and Grooves Fest is a musical celebration to help promote Down Syndrome Awareness held in Mobile. The festival is made up of local musicians, business owners, friends and family and other non-profits volunteering their time and talent for a fun filled day of music and awareness. Please visit www.dssmc.org for more information.
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Locally Filmed “Yellow Day” Movie to Premiere at Mobile Civic Center Theater
“Yellow Day”, a brand new feature film, blends live action and animation to show how grace transforms the soul. “Yellow Day” chronicles a young man’s life-changing journey through the mysterious Yellow Day. For this young man, the Yellow Day becomes not just a search for his lost love, but a spiritual journey where faith, hope, and love are revealed in extraordinary and unexpected ways. This compelling and imaginative fairytale draws upon true stories of often unsung heroes: those with special needs, terminal illness, or from abusive homes, who together inspire audiences to, even in the most difficult of times, remain steadfast in their faith. With powerful animation and a beautiful love story, “Yellow Day” is a film to watch more than once, as safe as Walt Disney Classics, and fun for everyone! “Yellow Day” was filmed in the Mobile Bay Area and is based upon true stories of people in our community! Come and see them in a real feature film. To order tickets, visit yellowdaymovie.com or call 251.219.0977 The “Yellow Day” Premiere event will be held at the Mobile Civic Center Theater. See the Yellow Carpet! Learn about our vision! Be a part of this one-of-a-kind event! $18 gets you 1 premiere ticket + 2 tickets to Premiere Cinemas September 19 - 21! See it again, give them to friends, or donate them to one of our charities!
Baldwin County Fair Coming September 23-27
The Baldwin County Fair will be held Tuesday, September 23 - Saturday, September 27 at the Baldwin County Coliseum and Arena/ Baldwin County Fairgrounds, 19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale. Admission for adults is $6 and children (Under 12) are admitted FREE. Parking is also free. Daily specials include: Tuesday & Wednesday, September 23rd & 24th is Pay One Price Day! $10 for admission, entertainment, and all midway rides FREE (All Over 36" Tall). Thursday, September 25th, Students & Senior Citizens Admitted Free from 4 - 6 p.m. Friday, September 26th. Admission: Adults $6.00 - Children FREE (Under 12 Years). Fair hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., Friday 4:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., Saturday 1:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight. For more information visit the website, www. baldwincofair.com or call (251) 947-3247 or (251) 947-3492.
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Grief Camp for Children Who Have Experienced Death of a Loved One
Gentiva Hospice is sponsoring a FREE children’s grief camp – Camp I Believe – for children ages 6-14 who have experienced the death of a loved one. Open to children across South Alabama, Camp I Believe will take place September 6- 7, at Camp Baldwin in Elberta, AL. Camp I Believe is a FREE children’s bereavement camp that provides support to grieving children and families across the country, with an emphasis being placed on strong clinical programming and community engagement. Camp activities and programming focus on providing campers with opportunity to express feelings and tell their story in a safe environment. All activities, whether directly or indirectly, help campers to establish a sense of community and provide teambuilding opportunities; activities place an emphasis on personal growth through creative expression and through establishing positive relationships with peers. Camps are organized and operated by skilled professionals such as recreational therapists, social workers, bereavement coordinators, and trained volunteers. For more information on Camp I Believe or to request a camper application, please contact Lorrey Chapman at 251-621-2500 or visit our website at www. gentiva.com/hospice/camps/.
Local Music Academy Launching Piano Camp at USA’s Children’s and Women’s Hospital
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A very special piano camp was held in July at the University of South Alabama Children’s & Women’s Hospital to offer young patients, at no charge, the chance to discover how much fun it can be to create music of their own. The four-day event is was offered through a partnership with Broussard’s Piano Gallery and Academy of Music and the Mapp Child and Family Life Program at USA’s Children's & Women's Hospital in Mobile. Broussard’s delivered four pianos to the hospital’s ClassAct, a special classroom where the lessons were given during the camp. Christy Broussard hopes the camp inspires other teachers, musicians, and vocalist to volunteer their time and help support these patients with music therapy. Broussard's Piano Gallery has donated a digital piano that will be there on a rolling cart, so that musicians can go from room to room sharing the gift of music. For information, call 344-8856.
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An Evening of Magic Promised at FEEF’s Phantasy of the Arts 2014
Nationally acclaimed magician Dennis Watkins is set to provide a mind-boggling, laugh-filled evening at Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation’s Phantasy of the Arts 2014. The illusionist will entertain and mystify the audience on Saturday, October 11, at 7 p.m. at the Fairhope Civic Center. Reviewed by The Chicago Tribune as, “the real technical deal…a highly theatrical and visually stunning show that contains magic of the very highest order,” Watkins is expected to draw a record crowd to the annual fundraising event that benefits public education in Fairhope. Following Watkins’s performance, the evening’s entertainment will continue with music from the popular musical duo, The Kyle and Karl Band, and with food from an array of the area’s best culinary talents. Since its beginning, Phantasy of the Arts has raised more than half a million dollars for public school students in Fairhope. Phantasy co-chair Nicole Olmstead said that this year, the organization intends to continue offering schoolwide enrichment at the lower grades, choral instruction, a piano lab, guitar lab and theatre opportunities for older students, and expanded science labs at Fairhope Intermediate and J. Larry Newton. Advanced individual tickets are $100 and available at www.brownpapertickets.com. Ticket price is $125 on the day of the event. To purchase a sponsorship, tickets or for more information, visit www.feefonline.org, call 251-990FEEF or email info@feefonline.org. Pictured, Phantasy of the Arts 2014 Co-Chairs Nicole Olmstead (left) and Anne Frost Kennedy.
South Baldwin Regional Medical Center Receives Award for Achieving 95th Percentile in Clinical Quality
South Baldwin Regional Medical Center is proud to announce it has been named a 2013 Guardian of Excellence Award winner by Press Ganey Associates, Inc. The Guardian of Excellence Award recognizes top-performing facilities that consistently achieved the 95th percentile of performance in Clinical Quality. The Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award is a health care industry symbol of achievement. Fewer than 5% of all Press Ganey clients reach this threshold and consistently maintain it for the one year reporting period. Press Ganey partners with more than 10,000 health care facilities, including more than half of all U.S. hospitals, to measure and improve the patient experience. “Receiving the 2013 Guardian of Excellence Award is a source of great pride at our facility and validates our commitment to patient care,” stated Keith Newton, CEO South Baldwin Regional Medical Center. “Our physicians, staff and volunteers prove time and time again that our patients and the quality of care we provide is top priority.” Pictured from left: Keith Newton, SBRMC CEO, Sharon Dunkin, Director of Quality and Margaret Roley, SBRMC CNO.
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Committee Plans for 26th Anniversary of the Jubilee Festival
The 26th Annual Jubilee Festival, an Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce event, is scheduled for September 27 and 28. The Jubilee Festival Organizing Committee is planning for a banner event this year. Exhibitors are being sought to participate. The juried art show takes place on Main Street (Scenic 98) in Olde Towne Daphne, in front of City Hall and in Centennial Park. There is no admission and the festival will be going on 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The Jubilee Festival will feature up to 130 of the finest artists and craftsmen in the region. The Eastern Shore Chamber expects more than 30,000 patrons to attend this year. Experienced judges will pick best of the best works in the show and artists chosen as top in their category will win cash prizes. Artists are also recognized with the Art Patrons Award. Committee members and resident patrons commit to purchase selection of work from an artist of their choice, and honors them with special ribbons. At Kids Art at Jubilee Festival kids enjoy such activities as fence painting, creating wooden structures, fish prints, puppet making, and more! As always, the fantastic entertainment on stage at the Jubilee Fest showcases the best acts in the region. For more information call the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce at (251) 621-8222 or visit www.eschamber.com.
Golf Tournament to Benefit The Exceptional Foundation
The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast invites you to join them for the 2nd Annual Golf Tournament. The tournament will be held Saturday, September 27 at Lakewood Golf Club. Shotgun start is at 8:30 a.m. Price to participate is $100 per player or $300 for 4 person teams. Mulligans are $10. For additional information call 251-625-8955. Proceeds from the Tournament provide the necessary funds to ensure that The Exceptional Foundation participants are able to gather daily for social activities, field trips, team sports and the arts.
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A Night of Elegance Planned for Black-Out Cancer Ball
The Black-Out Cancer Ball, formerly Baldwin County Gala, is one of the most exciting fund raising events in Baldwin County. The evening is packed with dancing, entertainment, an honoree presentation, dining, and auctions. Everyone wears BLACK! The event will offer elegant surroundings, scrumptious foods, fragrant wines, and a night of merry-making. This year's even will be held at the Fairhope Civic Center, Friday, September 26, 6-11 p.m. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased on the website www.blackoutcancerball.org. Proceeds from the Black-Out Cancer Ball will support the American Cancer Society.
Cooking for the Community Boston Butt Sale
Cooking for the Community, a non-profit organization, is dedicated to helping area families in need. Over the past couple of years this organization has restored homes in disrepair, fixing leaky roofs, missing windows, mold infestation and plumbing problems, and they upgraded a ramp to be wheelchair-compatible, just to name a few. They are also excited to be sponsoring thirty school children in the Fairhope Rotary Youth Club for after-school tutoring and “Enrichment” and “Academy” programs during the summer. Cooking for the Community’s goal is to expand efforts in both areas and make a greater impact in the lives and in the communities they serve. In order to do this they are proud to announce this year’s fundraiser, the 4th Annual Cooking for the Community Boston Butt Sale! You can purchase a Boston butt for $35 online or over the phone by calling 251-210-1222. Orders must be placed by Friday, October 3rd. Pickup date is Saturday, October 11th between 8am and 12 noon at Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church, 23050 Highway 98, Fairhope. If you would like to become more involved please visit them on facebook, www.facebook.com/cookforthecommunity and share their journey with friends. They also invite you to visit the website and volunteer at www.cookingforthecommunity.org. If you are interested in becoming a personal or corporate sponsor for this wonderful event, please call Rick Skinner at 251-209-2896 or simply sign up on our website.
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Locals Bring Home Awards from National Special Olympics
Three local residents participated in the National Special Olympics held in Trenton, NJ this summer and came home with some wonderful awards! Jenna McDonald won Gold in the 4x100 relay. Kelby Sanders placed 5th in his weightlifting group. David Hall won Gold in powerlifting overall for his weight class.
Spina Bifida Awareness Night at Fairhope/Daphne High School Football Game on October 3 There are several families in the Eastern Shore and surrounding areas who are affected by Spina Bifida. Spina Bifida is the most frequently occurring permanently disabling birth defect in the United States. It affects approximately seven out of every 10,000 births in the United States. Spina Bifida results from the spine's failure to close properly during the first month of pregnancy. In honor of these families, Fairhope High School will be raising awareness of Spina Bifida on October 3, during the Friday Night Football Game. The game will be held at W.C. Majors Field against Daphne High School in the Battle of Eastern Shore. There will be a tent with brochures full of information on Spina Bifida along with t-shirts and wrist bands to purchase and proceeds will go to Spina Bifida Association of Alabama to support families in need and raise awareness. There will also be a raffle and giveaways! For more information contact Brett Horne at bhorne@bcbe.org.
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
Special Kids with Special Needs This month, I want to call attention to a group of kids and families whose lives might be a little different than yours and mine. I am referring to 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 lifelong 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. 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 saltcovered lemon in his mouth for 30 seconds, and the parents were cracking up! I thought to myself, how can such a devastating situation
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
lead to this wonderful family laughing about a prank? How would I feel if that were me or 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 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 wandering 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 for 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?
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I have seen numerous kids and families like Kevin and Cody throughout my career and am constantly amazed at their stories. I know families who sacrifice their entire lives to take care of these kids, 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. Help can come in lots of ways— not only a donation to a cause! Sometimes, just a simple smile and hello and acceptance can make a world of difference. One of the most important things a child with special needs can do is be incorporated into mainstream activities. School, sports, and extra-curricular activities are important aspects of a normal childhood and are important to these kids and families, so welcome them with open arms and help if you can. A simple hug or pat on the back can go a long way. 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 Pleasure New Staff at Orange Beach Island Volleyball Club for Girls
Marti McLaurin, one of this year's 6th grade graduates of Gulf Shores Elementary School, dives for the ball in a recent sand volleyball tournament in Gulf Shores. Marti is a member of the Pleasure Island Volleyball Club, a Jr. Olympic Program for girls ages 10 through 18. The club exists to support those who wish to learn more about the sport of volleyball and to promote interest in the sport at a local level.
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Elementary
Orange Beach Elementary School has added many new faculty members this year. Shown are: Lynette Peterson, 3rd grade teacher; Lindsey Mears, 6th grade teacher; Jennifer Cardwell, 2nd grade teacher; Kristin LaMotte, Assistant Principal; Kelly Cleere 6th grade teacher; and Ashley Young, 6th grade teacher. Not shown are: Haley Crews, Instructional Transformation Specialist; Melissa Tatum, Child Nutrition Program Staff and Jodi Williamson, paraprofessional.
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Orange Beach Elementary First Day Dismissal
After an exciting first day of school at Orange Beach Elementary, students and teachers happily await dismissal bells. Shown with teachers Melissa Baggett, 4th grade, and Brandy Rhodes, 3rd grade, are: left to right, Chapman Collier, Blair Moss, Ms. Baggett, Ms. Rhodes, and Natalie Mrocek.
GSES Welcomes Back Coach Burleson
Gulf Shores Elementary School faculty and staff are so excited to welcome Coach Josh Burleson back from his one year deployment to Afghanistan with the Alabama National Guard. Pictured standing l to r: Roger Keenan, Adam Key, Josh Burleson, Allison Davis, Amy Doss and Danielle Canaan; Front row kneeling l to r: Sheila Scott-Hawkins, Julie Pierce, Emma Knight and Lisa Williams.
Christian College Career Fair
Bayshore Christian School will be hosting a Christian College Fair Tuesday, September 30th. The event will being at 6:00 p.m. in the Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church Sanctuary for a group forum. John Howard, Bayshore Christian School's Guidance Counselor, will speak on "Why you Should Consider a Christian College. We will then hear from Marie Mabry on "Affording a Christian College Education." Following the twenty minute forum we will move across campus to the BCS Gymnasium where you will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from the featured colleges. This is an opportunity to gain a better understanding of each college’s values and what they have to offer to prospective college bound students. The event is open to all prospective college students and their parents. Bayshore Christian School is located at 23050 US Highway 98, Fairhope. For additional information call 929-0011. Represented Schools: Belhaven University, Boyce College, Faulkner University, Judson College, Liberty University, Mississippi College, New Saint Andrews College, Pensacola Christian College, University of Mobile, William Carey University.
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CountyGSMS SchoolsAll American Cheerleaders Fairhope Elementary TeamAutauga Building Mr. Terry Beasley, Principal of Fairhope Elementary, and his wonderful staff began the new school year with incredibly funny team-building activities. Fairhope Elementary believes that laughter is infectious! The sound of laughter is much more contagious than a cough or a sneeze. Sharing laughter binds people together, increases happiness, and makes a healthier life by diminishing stress and boosting your energy level. Best of all, laughter is fun and free and easy to do! Pictured from left to right Kateri O'Connor, Julie Gerstenschlager, Shelia Holcomb, Michelle Harding, Jodi Blohme, Terry Beasley, Chris Miller, Jessica Golden, Lauren Williams, and Elizabeth Mitchell.
Gulf Shores Middle School had five girls selected as All American Cheerleaders at the Universal Cheerleaders Association Cheer
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Camp held at the Beach Club Resort. These girls were judged on their best jump, extreme routine dance and UCA cheer. Each of the five girls received an All American Medallion. The All American Cheerleaders will have the opportunity to perform in the Thanksgiving Parade in Orlando at Walt Disney World. The five girls selected were: Savannah Higginson, Sally Davis, Brianna Ennis, Christina Cook and Hayes Graf.
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Bayley, Sydney White, Caroline Smith, Helena Johnson, Chris Stanford, MaryPratt Byrd, Cameron Cortinas, Caroline Jernigan, Noah White, Joelye Davis, Hadley Hutchinson, Kaylyn Bivins. Not pictured: Jacob Champion, Kaileigh Smith, Anna Delahunty, Cassidy West, Nellie Givens, Caleb Casolaro, Cullen Waters.
Fairhope High School Peer Helpers and Peer Leaders have started the school year working to welcome new students! They assisted with Freshmen Orientation on August 14, and are planning several activities for FHS students. Pictured, Front (L to R): Kirsten Glaser, Caroline Chambliss, Teagan Frank, Emma Walker, Darby Callicut, Marlee Davis, Kiser Olds, Abby Webster, Ellen Waters, Emme Moccia, Kate Phelps, Katelyn Lundy, Emerald Agee; Back (L to R): Grace Bishop, Logan Smith, Gillian Atwood, Katie
New Faces at Spanish Fort Elementary
Spanish Fort Elementary has many new faces on campus! Pictured from left to right: Cristi Inabinett, school clerk; Waverly Boutin, assistant principal; Amy Milar, 2nd grade teacher; Cali Quinlivan, speech teacher; Sandra Jones, cafeteria manager; Cindy Odom, 1st grade teacher; Emily Harvell, Kindergarten teacher; Jennifer Waldrop, special education teacher.
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Autauga County Schools McGill-Toolen Catholic Welcomes Students
Pictured left, Student Ambassadors Rachel Wagnon and Christopher McClintock show a group of incoming freshman around campus with a stop in the Advancement Office for a treat!
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Special Lunch for KOC for St. Patrick Catholic School
St. Patrick Catholic School students and faculty in Robertsdale enjoyed a special “back to school” lunch provided by the Knights of Columbus. Thank you KOC! Pictured with Sr. Margaret Harte, principal, are (L to R) first graders, Baleigh Kinard, Emma Sexton, Emalie Holcomb, and Roxanne Ching. Send School News to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com.
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Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...
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Bayshore Christian School House Sorting
Bayshore Christian School’s Logic and Rhetoric school held their annual “House Sorting Ceremony” August 15. The students are randomly selected into a house in which they will remain throughout their time at BCS. The 4 houses are Domus Ignus (Fire), Domus Aquae (Water), Domus Aurae (Wind), and Domus Terrae (Earth). Pictured are Payton Robinson (left) and Nina Messinger (right).
Bayside Academy Students “Think BIG”
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As a back-to-school initiative, Bayside’s Student Government Association (SGA) challenged the Bayside community to act, dream and think big! Upper School SGA students shared the “Think BIG” message and handed out a whale key chain to the entire student body. SGA President and senior Emily Wright shared “#thinkbigbayside is a call to action this year; it’s a reminder that size doesn't limit our accomplishments. We may be a small school but our aspirations are not.” SGA is a leadership program designed to encourage student involvement in the school and community and to increase student awareness of state, national and international concerns. Participating students represent the body in both the expression of concerns and the development and completion of studentdeveloped projects and traditional Bayside events. Pictured, First grader Aiden Gray shows off his "think BIG" key chain.
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Autauga County Schools
First Day at Daphne East Elementary
Daphne East Elementary School Kindergarten teacher, Cherylynn Lawrence's eagerly greets some of her early arrivals the first day of school.
Fairhope Intermediate School Receives Check for $12,500
The Fairhope K-6 PTC recently presented Mrs. Carol Broughton, principal of Fairhope Intermediate School with a check for $12,500. The check is the result of fundraisers held this year and will be used to provide Novel Series books for each classroom. Pictured here is Beth Puckett, Lisa Trotter, Mrs. Carol Broughton, Principal and Mr. Andy Benton, Assistant Principal.
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Christ the King Teachers Honored for Service
Christ the King Catholic School faculty members, Mrs. Jan Quint, left, and Ms. Sherry Cook, were honored for their years of service in the Mobile Archdiocese at the 20142015 teacher orientation on Friday, August 8. Mrs. Quint and Ms. Cook received their twentieth anniversary certificates.
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Jodi Williamson, new para-educator at OBES, collaborates with teachers on plans for the new school year. Shown, left to right, are: Angie Moore, Ms. Williamson, Lainey Middleton and Dale Roberts. Staged by finefurnishings Event Rentals, Fairhope, AL
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Gulf Shores Elementary 3rd Grade Me Bag
Mr. Anthony Capps’ class at Gulf Shores Elementary School is studying how to build and maintain healthy friendships. Kruiz Bates presents her ‘Me Bag’ filled with objects from home that will help her peers know the important things about her! Pictured l to r: Kruiz Bates with Raven Clark and Asher Pampel look on!
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Schools Show their Spirit Gulf Shores Middle Autauga School County Cheerleaders at Cheer Camp
The Gulf Shores Middle School Cheerleaders did an amazing job at the Universal Cheerleaders Association Cheer Camp held at the Beach Club Resort. The squad received a gold superior ribbon for their home pom routine, first place blue ribbon for their UCA cheer, second place on their extreme routine dance, and received a spirit stick every day for demonstrating teamwork in their classes. For the game day evaluations the squad received a 2nd place trophy for the band chant, 3rd place trophy for the sideline and a 3rd place trophy for the timeout cheer. Savannah Higginson received the "Pin it Forward" award. Five girls on the squad (Sally Davis, Savannah Higginson, Brianna Ennis, Christina Cook and Hayes Graf) were selected as All American Cheerleaders. The squad was very proud to get the Tradition plaque (given to the one squad that shows pride in their school by strongly incorporating their colors, mascot, and name into all aspects of camp. For the second year in a row, the GSMS cheerleaders got the banana award! The banana recognizes a team for showing the most spirit and enthusiasm. Coaches Megan Scofield and Megan McNeil could not be more proud of the girls' achievements and the way they represented Gulf Shores Middle School. The cheerleaders are: Leanna Bolton, Christina Cook, Abby Criteser, Sally Davis, Brianna Ennis, Hayes Graf, Savannah Higginson, Hannah Hoover, Abby Jones and Hannah Siefring, Coaches Megan McNeil and Megan Scofield.
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Spanish Fort Elementary Student Wins First Place in State Contest
Marygrace Sebastian, first grader at Spanish Fort Elementary School, won first place in the State PTA Reflections contest with her entry in the Primary Musical Composition division. The PTA Reflections Program is designed to enhance quality arts education. Reflections program encourages students in pre-K through grade 12 to explore and be involved in the arts. For more information on the PTA Reflections program, contact your school's PTA representative.
Fairhope Kindergarten Teachers Prep for New Year
Three little Fairhope Kinder teachers planned for the year, filling their rooms with happiness and cheer. They decorated high and decorated low. They lined up their chairs in straight little rows. They passed out their books and treats for the first day! Then, prayed a little heartfelt prayer to help them last till May! Pictured from left to right: Mrs. Hailey Duell, Mrs. Kelly Hayes and Mrs. Lindsay Burress.
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County Christ the Schools King PTO Officers for 2014-15 Christ the King Catholic Autauga Christ the King Catholic School has announced the new PTO executive committee School for the 2014-2015 school year. From left, front row, Mrs. Sarah Marzella, teacher liaison, Mrs. Alyson Schott, president, Mrs. Erica Navarre, committee liaison, and Back-toMrs. Lori Globetti, treasurer. Back row, Mrs. Karen Wilson, teacher liaison, Mrs. School Courtney Silvernail, secretary, Mrs. Jill Roh, head room parent, and Mr. Max Crain, CKCS principal. Not pictured are Mrs. Lisa Dutton, vice president, and Mrs. Chris Night Bartz, teacher liaison.
Christ the King Catholic School held its annual Back to School Night on Monday, August 11. Teachers and staff welcomed students and parents back to school after summer vacation. Students received their homeroom assignments, met their new teachers, and dropped off books and supplies. First grade teacher, Mrs. Denise Helper welcomes incoming first grader, Julia Watkins to class.
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Autauga County Schools
Gulf Shores Middle School Named Jostens 2014 National Yearbook Program of Excellence
In April, Jostens, the leading producer of yearbooks and student-created content, announced that Gulf Shores Middle School’s yearbook program was named a 2014 Jostens National Yearbook Program of Excellence. The National Yearbook Program of Excellence designation recognizes dynamic school yearbook programs. The program recognizes yearbook staffs and advisers who create engaging yearbooks for their school communities. Mallorie Papadelias, Editor, and Amber Mason, Co-Editor, lead the GSMS award winning yearbook program, under the direction of Brittney Reeves, Gulf Shores Middle School yearbook adviser. Last year’s yearbook staff included: Mimi Butler, Gabby Camp, Raquel Carnrike, Morgan Gergen, Leah Gillis, Savannah Higginson, Christian Mitchell, Grace Shivers, Caylee Smith, Ally Stevens, Kaily Werthem, and Dalton Whitt. Jostens’ National Yearbook Program of Excellence Awards are presented twice a year – in May for yearbooks delivered in the spring and in September for yearbooks delivered in the fall. The Award was presented to the Gulf Shores Middle School yearbook program for achieving the defined criteria in each of three following categories: creating an inclusive yearbook, generating school engagement, and successfully managing the yearbook creation process. “Jostens believes passionately in the importance of the yearbook tradition connecting every student to the school story and the school year and we are honored to recognize these yearbook programs,” said Mike Wolf, director, Yearbook Marketing, Jostens. “We understand that a great yearbook program does not just happen, and we are dedicated to helping schools strengthen their programs by providing the tools and personal guidance for success. The National Yearbook Program of Excellence recognizes schools that embrace the yearbook tradition and have built a yearbook program that serves the entire school community.” The Gulf Shores Middle School yearbook program received a plaque to display in the yearbook area and a banner to display in school, so the entire school community will be aware of the outstanding achievement.
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Orange Beach Elementary First Grade Enrollment Increases
Some of the first grade teachers at Orange Beach Elementary School are pictured making preparations to begin the new school year. Show, left to right, are: Tara Smith, Kimberly Edwards and Maggie McDaniel. Not shown is Kristi Brunick. Increased enrollment in first grade has created a need for four teachers this year. The teachers are pictured putting the finishing touches on their plans for the Meet the Teacher evening on August 14.
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The Fairhope K-6 PTC recently presented a check for $12,500 to Fairhope Elementary School. The funds were the result of very successful fundraisers put on by the PTC. Funds were distributed to Fairhope Intermediate School and Fairhope Elementary School. Pictured here are Mrs. Agerton, Assistant Principal, Lee Tapscott, Beth Puckett and Mr. Beasley, Fairhope Elementary School Principal. The money will be used for a summer reading program for incoming kindergarten students.
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Autauga County Schools Football Team “Building a Bridge” at McGill-Toolen Catholic School
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Senior members of the football team pictured in their annual senior poster are ready for a great season with new head coach Caleb Ross. Each year the team adopts a mantra to keep them motivated and this year Coach Ross found his inspiration from a the poem “The Bridge Builder”.
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Daphne Elementary Ice Bucket Challenge
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Daphne East Elementary principal, Mark Doherty, takes the ALS ice bucket challenge with assistance by Coaches Carol Valdes and William McInvale.
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Send School News and photos by the 8th of each month to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com.
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Bayside Academy Welcomes New Faculty
Bayside Academy is excited to announce the addition of seventeen new faculty and staff members to the Bayside family. Alisa Ascik - Kindergarten; Becca Blanc - sixth grade, Zach Brusko - Computer Science; Hannah Etheredge - Pre-Kindergarten; Ellen Heebe - first grade; Yana List - Science; Susan McClellan - Foreign Language; Adam Peturis - Foreign Language; Christina Ricks - Science; Douglas Robertson - History; Jana Schmidt - Foreign Language; Joe Swaggart - Head Coach of Cross Country and Track; Gail Tart - English. Mary Neil Crosby joins the Administration staff in the Admissions office, Martha Meador - learning specialist in the Learning Place ; Andi Millsap School Counselor; Lindsay Stilwell - Librarian. Pictured (l-r, back row to front row): New faculty and staff at Bayside Academy: Gail Tart, Ellen Heebe, Zach Brusko, Alisa Ascik, Douglas Robertson, Adam Peturis, Joe Swaggart, Andi Millsap, Susan McClellan, Jana Schmidt, Christina Ricks, Martha Meador, Lindsay Stilwell, Yana List, Hannah Etheredge, Mary Neil Crosby. Not pictured: Becca Blanc.
Spanish Fort Elementary Students Begin School
Students were welcomed back to Spanish Fort Elementary School on August 18. Students spent the week learning procedures, getting to know their teacher and classmates, and becoming acquainted with their new technology!
Bayshore Christian School Welcomes New Faculty Bayshore Christian School is pleased to welcome 11 new teachers to our faculty for the 2014-2015 school year. At BCS, we prayerfully seek and interview qualified candidates who love God, love children, and love learning. We trust God to call the teachers we need to this educational ministry and to make their calling sure. New teachers participated in orientation August 4th-7th. Pictured from left to right, front row: Mrs. Jennifer Werneth, Mrs. Amanda Miller, Mrs. April Jones, Mrs. Lisa Brock, Mrs. Elizabeth Sieffert, Mrs. Gabriela Johnson. Back row: Mrs. Beth Haynes, Mrs. Ellen Jones, Mrs. Anise Heger, Miss Lindsay Dennis. Not Pictured: Adele Hermann.
St. Patrick Catholic School Tech Lab
Students at St. Patrick Catholic School in Robertsdale use the computer lab for online testing, keyboarding practice, research, and digital project creations. Kindergarten (K5) through the 8th grade have computer classes throughout the school week. Pictured are seventh graders, Caitlyn Bushaw (center) and Laney Darby (left) researching online for one of their assigned projects.
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County Schools Baldwin County HighAutauga Tigerettes Win First Place at UDA Camp
The Baldwin County High School Tigerettes had an exceptional week at Universal Dance Association Camp at the University of Southern Mississippi. The team attended four curriculum sessions, as well as worked on improving both team and individual technique. On the first night of camp the team competed in the Home Routine Competition with a kick number to "Timber". On the final day of camp, the team was awarded first place in the Varsity Division for this performance. The team also received all Superior ribbons for their camp evaluations, awarding them a Superior trophy and a bid to UDA Nationals. Furthermore, the team was honored to receive the Leadership Award, which is an award voted on by the other teams at camp, awarded to the team the camp felt showed the most leadership throughout the week. Team members Tucker Clay and Niah Smith were selected as UDA All-American Dancers during the week, and Brooke Emmons won the coveted Drill Down Queen distinction. “UDA puts on a phenomenal camp at USM that I am proud to take my team to each year! This year was one of the best years yet,” said Elizabeth Byrd, team sponsor. “The team worked hard, performed with confidence and represented Baldwin County High School with exceptional pride. This year's team is extremely talented. I am excited about putting together a fun show for the Tiger Fans to enjoy during this year's halftime performance.” Team members include, from left, front row, Sarah Barnett, Olivia Turner, Tucker Clay, Brooke Emmons, Christine Eleogo; second row, Caitlyn Phillips, Kara Brooks, Avery Gaines, Niah Smith; third row, Aubrianna White, Samantha Byrd, Angel Hinote, and Morgan Bryars. Pictured, right, Senior Tigerette member Brooke Emmons won the coveted Drill Down Queen distinction.
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Eastern Shore Twirlers Win Big at Nationals!
The NBTA (National Baton Twirling Association) recently held their national competition, AYOP America's Youth on Parade. There's no twirling spectacular quite like AYOP. It brings together the best baton twirlers, teams and corps in the world for a series of National and World Open Championship contests - all under one umbrella. It can be appropriately called the "World Series of Baton Twirling." AYOP was held at Notre Dame University Athletic and Convocation Center (JACC) and are sanctioned by the NBTA INTERNATIONAL. Eastern Shore Twirlers Elite Team, won 1st place in Beginner Junior Dance Twirl Team, a tremendous accomplishment! 22 teams competed in this event. The girls performed an aggressive routine to The Phoenix by Fall Out Boy, in which the first lyrics are "put on your war paint." The team members in the picture on the right are from left to right: Mogan Williamson, Sydney Belyeu, Sarah Fuller, Christy Thacker, Lexie Fowler, Katherine Ming, Zoe Harris and Sarah Hall. Christy and Fuller are from Daphne, the other 6 are from Fairhope. Eastern Shore Twirlers Gold team won 5th place in Beginner Juvenile Dance Twirl team. Most of these girls have never competed at a national event, making this is an incredible placement. They performed an upbeat routine to Hercules, with Molly playing the role of Meg and Sierra playing Hercules. In the picture on the left, from left to right, they are: front row, Gracie Cox and Ashley Fowler. Back row: Madison Bias, Molly Meilunas, Sierra Scoggin, Jordan Carraway, Chloe Coleman, McKenzie Beard, Gabrielle Farnell and Paige Jackson. All of the girls competed in individual events as well. Only the top ten in each event get medals. Individual medals won by Eastern Shore Twirlers: Jordan Carraway - 4th place, Novice 12 Strut; Ashley Fowler - 3rd place, Beginner 8 solo; 5th place Novice 8 Strut; Lexie Fowler - 7th place, Intermediate 10-12 Pageant Twirl; Sarah Hall - 2nd place, Novice 12 Two Baton; Zoe Harris - 6th place, Beginner 12 Strut; Molly Meilunas - 3rd place, Beginner 11 Strut; 8th place, Beginner 10-12 Pageant Overall; 9th place, Beginner 11 solo; 10th place, Beginner 10-12 Pageant Strut; Katherine Ming - 7th place, Beginner 12 solo; Sierra Scoggin - 4th place, Novice 12 Strut; Christy Thacker - 6th place, Novice 16 Two Baton; 7th place, Beginner 16 Strut; 10th place, 16+ All American Girl Modeling. "Accomplishment's like these cannot happen unless families are completely dedicated. Not only do the twirlers have to work hard at every practice, parents have to be willing to make sacrifices with their time and finances. It also takes the support of the community, because we wouldn't have a place to practice without principals like Mr. Beasley and Mrs. Hall and the PE coaches who let us share their gyms" states Eastern Shore Twirlers owner/directory Stacy Forbess.
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CountyForum Schools Bayside Hosts College Autauga Admissions
Bayside Academy will host an “Admissions Matters” College Admissions Forum for parents and students (grades 7-12) in Mobile and Baldwin County on Tuesday, September 9 at 6:00 pm on their campus, located at 303 Dryer Avenue in Daphne. This program will provide information to parents and students on issues related to college admissions, with sessions focusing on topics such as By the Numbers, College Athletics, Dollars for Scholars, For Your Ears Only, How to Make a College Visit and Meet Rhodes—Why Quality Liberal Arts Works in a STEM-Obsessed World. Session facilitators include Daniel Feig, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Administration and Compliance at the University of Southern Mississippi; Velda Rooker, Director of Auburn University Scholarships since 2002 and Member of the BryantJordan Student-Athlete Scholarship Program State Selection Committee; Patrick Sprague, Senior Associate Director at Spring Hill College; J. Carey Thompson, Vice President for Enrollment and Communications and Dean of Admission at Rhodes College; Mary Ann Willis, Director of College Counseling at Bayside Academy. This event is free and open to the public. For additional information on “Admissions Matters” College Admissions Forum, please visit www.baysideacademy.org/
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McGill-Toolen Seniors Back in Black McGill-Toolen Catholic Seniors Lexi Naughton, Russell Noletto and Lindsay Farnell are finally able to don the coveted black shirt, a time-honored Senior privilege.
Send School News to: lynn@ easternshoreparents.com.
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Autauga County Schools Bayside Academy Welcomes Back Students
Bayside Academy welcomed students and parents back to campus on Monday, August 11. Pictured left, Bayside Seniors on the first day of School. Pictured right, Football players seniors Greg Wallace, Gex Billups, Cody Dobbins, Nick Bolton, Logan Babin, Garrett Palesano and John Stuart greeted Kindergartners AnnaLee Breeland, Ansley Hagan, Avery Kane, Owen Kane, Katie Bonner to their first day at Bayside.
SPCS Ice Bucket Challenge!
ALS Awareness Challenge at SPCS Mr. Andy Musselman, the father of Sarah (K5) and Sophie (2nd grade), has ALS, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. To support the Musselman family, the students, faculty and staff at St. Patrick Catholic School in Robertsdale were invited to do the “Ice Bucket Challenge”. We did an “18 ounce ice solo cup challenge" and presented the process to Mr Andy Mussleman. We are praying for him daily.
Wildlife Experience of a Lifetime! Come see Alligator Feedings and over 300 alligators up close!
Located in Summerdale!
Safe for kids! Fun for the entire family! Field Trips/Birthday Parties available.
GatorAlleyFarm.com 19950 Hwy 71 • Summerdale, AL Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
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Have the best Birthday Party ever here at Alligator Alley!
OPEN 6 Days A Week 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. www.easternshoreparents.com
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YOU’RE INVITED TO A FUTURE ADMIRAL EVENT Join us in small group tours and see Bayside through the eyes of your child. Experience the difference our small class sizes and personal attention make in your student’s journey of life-long learning.
RSVP at www.baysideacademy.org/futureadmirals
303 Dryer Avenue | Daphne, Alabama | 251-338-6300 | www.baysideacademy.org Bayside Academy is an independent, co-educational, college preparatory day school offering a superior 41 educational opportunity to qualified students from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade.
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Q. My wife and I have $25,000 in credit
card debt, $2,500 in medical bills and $89,000 each in student loan debt from when we each got our masters’ degrees. We make about $100,000 combined. Our son is 6 years old, and we have $18,000 in a 529 plan for him. Should we use that money to pay off debt instead?
A. I wouldn’t do that if I were you. You’ll get destroyed with penalties, because if you take money out of a 529 for anything other than college, you’ll be taxed at your current tax rate and hit with a 20 percent penalty. The other thing is you’ll have this weird feeling that you took money away from your kid. Technically, it’s your money. You put it there. But when you did, it was in your child’s name. Plus, that doesn’t really solve your problem. You’ve got a ridiculous amount of debt, and that little bit won’t move the needle very much. Having more money in your hands isn’t the big answer here. What you both need is a behavior change when it comes to money. My advice is to leave the 529 alone. Stop adding to it for the time being. Put any retirement saving you’re currently doing on
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
hold, too. You guys need to start living on a budget, working a debt snowball plan and looking for extra income. Even tutoring would bring in some additional cash. I’ve got a feeling, too, that those masters’ degrees can provide you with more money than you’re currently making. It can be done, but it’s going to take a lot of hard work and discipline. It may even take four or five years to get this mess cleaned up, but you can’t keep living without a plan!
Q. Do you recommend
a credit freeze in order to protect against identity theft?
A. I absolutely recommend doing that, especially if you’re not borrowing money anymore. However, putting a freeze on your credit report only provides partial protection against identity theft. Identity theft is where someone, for example, signs up for a credit card in your name. If Joe Crook signs an application
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with your name and address, and the credit card company issues the card without checking —they blind-issue cards about seven out of 10 times — then the card will be issued to the thief. Having your credit frozen does nothing to stop that from happening. Still, if they check your credit and it’s frozen, chances are they won’t issue the card. I’d also recommend having a good identity theft protection program in place. I have it on myself and all my team members at the office. If you don’t have this, and someone gets a card in your name, the credit card company will demand that you pay the bill. You can insist it’s not you, but that won’t do much good. Then, you’ll have to go through the hassle of filling out affidavits and police reports. You may get out of paying for it in the end, but you’ll still have to spend dozens, if not hundreds, of hours dealing with the credit card company trying to get the whole mess straightened out!
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Ready for Launch and the Sky’s the Limit
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
Kids learn how to launch their possessions early in life. It usually starts with their pacifier launched via an explosive puff of air that sends parents scrambling to collect it (within five seconds –as a rule). Finding delight in both the launch and the landing, children are quick to pick up the physics of force and momentum as they later heft more toys into the air. And while it’s no fun reclaiming the kid-propelled items that occasionally make their way onto the roof of the house, fostering their enthusiasm for launching toys is worth the air time. There are hidden physic lessons as they learn about force, trajectory and mass along the way! The sky’s the limit with these toys and games that break the bonds of gravity and send playtime soaring!
by Gerry Paige Smith
Robotic UFO Helicopter
When Pigs Fly
Remote controlled air vehicles have come so far in recent years. The Robotic UFO Helicopter is super lightweight and enclosed in a semi-flexible spherical frame. This vehicle launches smoothly and follows a trajectory and altitude directed from a simple-to-use remote control. With a flight-time of about 10 minutes between battery charges, it’s an easy-to-master entry into the RC aircraft fleet. The spherical frame protecting the propeller gives the moving parts a good measure of ‘bounce-back’ protection as rookie pilots launch into occasional obstacles while their RC skills evolve. Best enjoyed by kids eight and up, the Robotic UFO Helicopter lets young pilots quickly launch their budding career as remotecontrol masters of the sky!
A hilarious twist on an old expression, ‘When Pigs Fly’ brings home the bacon for energetic game play! Players have their own collection of pigs in their pen that they must get rid of to win. Using the game’s cannons, pigs (attired with their own stylish scarves) are propelled upward in hopes that their scarf will stick in the cloud cone. And while players feverishly are launching their porcine pieces, they’re also taking turns with a spinner that may compel them to add more pigs to their pen, give pigs to another player, or other actions that may help or hinder their mission to get rid of their pigs. It’s fast, fun and definitely hogs the action in the board game closet!
(Happy Cow)
(Poof Slinky)
Ultra Stomp Rocket
Hot Wheels Mega Jump
(D-L Company)
In the market space for stomp rockets, the Stomp Rocket Ultra takes the high ground with a smart, durable design that sends lightweight rockets soaring upward with ease. Including 4 foam-tipped rockets, the batteries-free set uses the force of a child’s stomp on an air pad to launch the rockets skyward. Timid steps on the launch pad quickly evolve to enthusiastic stomps that send the foam projectile far afield (and the rockets’ foam design ensures that landings are harmless and damage-free to surroundings). Exposing young minds to trajectory, projection, force and motion – this intro to rocketry is one giant step toward stellar playtime!
(Mattel)
There is almost no time between the moment little hands learn to roll a toy car across a table and the instant that same car becomes airborne with imagined jumps and stunts. As kids seek reputable roadway for their cars to journey farther (and higher) the Mega Jump is an ideal addition to every Hot Wheels enthusiast’s tool kit! With clamps that mount on the child’s chosen obstacle, the challenge is to propel their auto with just enough force to launch and land after a huge jump. Best with additional Hot Wheels track to maximize the run up to launch, unleash your kid’s inner ‘Dukes of Hazard’ with the Hot Wheels Mega Jump track accessory!
Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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• Action figure adaptations - You will need the figure(s), poker chips and hot glue. Glue the figure’s feet onto the poker chip and viola! You now have a stable mini-figure for play!
Every parent is always on the lookout for new, fun, educational, developmental and inexpensive toys for their child. A parent with a special needs child can find toy shopping to be more of a frustration and challenge. Adapted toys are one of the many sub-categories of Assistive Technology (AT) which refers to devices, tools and adaptations made to objects to help your child (or any individual) do something they may not have otherwise been able to do. AT can come in many shapes, sizes and packages. It can be purchased off the shelf, customized, can be high tech or low tech, or developed to fit a specific need. AT can help your child to move independently and explore the world around her. With the assistance of AT, your child can attend birthday parties, participate in family routines and activities, play and explore books and toys to help advance learning! In this article, we will explore options you can use to adapt toys you probably already have, easily and inexpensively, to help your child with a variety of play. A couple of tools of the trade are hot glue guns (keep out of reach of children) and battery interrupters. If you are not familiar with those items yet, just wait, you will be and you will find them to be a very valuable tool in your box. Below are some simple adaptations made to classic toys and activities to help make it easier and less frustrating for you and your child to play and learn! Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
• Games – Use puff paint or glue to outline the sections on a board game. Add velcro to each section and attach to game pieces for added stability and ease of placement. For card games, consider using a hairbrush to slide cards into for stable holding or cut a “shelf” out of a piece of inexpensive foam!
Art – Crayon/pencil holders can be made out of many different things depending on your child’s grip. A foam ball (similar to a stress ball) can be used as a grip for a crayon when a small incision is made and the crayon securely inserted. A pill bottle with an “x” cut at the bottom can also be used to securely insert a crayon for easier grasp. For painting, consider sponge painting (an insert can even be added to help with grip if needed), or add paint into an empty roll-on deodorant container to roll-on the paint!
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Small motorized cars/toys – Purchasing a battery interrupter (at Radio Shack, Amazon.com and other stores with prices ranging from $11-$150) and adding it to almost any battery operated device can allow your child to operate •
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many of the toys he/she wants and sees other kids playing with, all by themselves!
• Reading – This is such an important activity that any adaptation you find that works…do it. You may find that a giant chip clip or giant paper clips (such as the kind used on clipboards) secured to each page may make turning each page easier. Separated contact lens cases attached to the pages work well also. Generous amounts of hot glue dots or felt pads (like the ones used on the bottom of chairs) are helpful to help fluff and separate pages for easier turning. •
Puzzles – Starting off with a puzzle
with less complexity may offer a less frustrating option for your child. Use a permanent black marker to outline the placement of each puzzle piece on the board. You can also color each section on the board with a different color and then color the back of the matching puzzle piece with the same color for matching fun!
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Magnetic grips – If your child is
able to grasp a magnetic wand you can purchase one or make one out of a tube or pvc pipe based on your child’s grip. Add magnetic tape to the wand and to the toys for easier maneuvering. Your child can use the wand to attach and manipulate the toy as well as pick it up to move to another location!
Pull toys – The tiny, thin string attached to pull toys can be frustrating for a child with low grip. Attach a large wooden bead, cut dowel rod or shower ring to the end of the string for easier grasp.
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• Ride on/push toys – Add a phone book, canned food or water bottles to the toy so it doesn’t tip over while in use. Secure non-slip cabinet or rug liners to the seats of toys so the child doesn’t slip off.
Bubble fun – Purchase a small bubble machine from any local retailer (Target, Wal-Mart…). They are very inexpensive (around $10) and can provide hours of fun. Using a battery interrupter, attach it
•
to the bubble machine so the child can operate the bubbles using the large button switch and watch it go! You can add in a game by trying to pop all of the bubbles yourself “in a hurry” while allowing your child to be in control! Locate resources in your area and talk with other parents to see what adaptations they have made to help their child learn and play. There is a known adapted toy lending library located in Huntsville at United Cerebral Palsy of Huntsville. Soon there will be one in Montgomery at Easter Seals Central Alabama! A wonderful online resource, used for this article, is the Tots-n-Tech website (tnt.asu.edu). Play with your child and think creatively so they can, too! ESP Varina Mead, a mother of two, Prattville native and current Director of Marketing for Easter Seals Central Alabama, has enjoyed working in the family service field for over 15 years. Raised by a single mother with Cerebral Palsy, Varina learned from an early age that she wanted to work in disability advocacy and education. Easter Seals Central Alabama is a collection of programs designed to assist children and adults with disabilities, find greater independence, enhanced quality of life, and be seen for their abilities.
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Save Money on Your Style:
Shop Vintage Vintage clothing is described as new or second hand garments originating from a different era of time. The phrase is also used in connection with a retail outlet, e.g. “vintage clothing store.” One reason I love vintage is because I can have a very unique yet affordable style. Now I’m not saying everything in your wardrobe needs to come from your favorite flea market/consignment store, but you can enjoy shopping for a few of these pre-loved treasures. Vintage items can cost anywhere from 50 cents to $12. I myself have found a few items to add to my style, and not only does it make it fun to shop, it’s also an amazing complement when you have people noticing what you have on. The best thing is that only you know that your outfit cost much less than what you would pay in a high end store. When you shop vintage here are a few tips to use.
Set a BudgetWhether you’re shopping in a used clothing store or looking online, you should try setting a budget before buying anything. Besides, that’s what the Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
point is anyway, saving money and finding a fun new style. The best part about setting a budget is that if you under spend you can save the money for your next shopping trip.
What are you looking forLook through current designer items and find something that you love now. Then you can look for that same designer’s previous seasons for a similar look at a fraction of the current cost. Chances are, they will have made something similar in the past, especially considering that many styles cycle back every three to five years.
Check with friends or familyEnjoy plundering through the closets of friends or family who might have the perfect vintage item for you. If they are still hanging around then its probably a good sign that the clothing/accessories are well taken care of.
Check the quality before buyingEven designer label vintage clothing won’t be valuable if it’s in poor condition. It is important to check for tears, strains and anywhere that the garment has been mended.
Know how to wear current-
in with your current style. This updates your vintage look a bit more.
AlterationsBe sure that the quality of clothing is durable enough to be altered if needed. You want your clothes to fit properly whether they are vintage or not.
Find a buddyThere is nothing wrong with bringing a friend along. It’s always a great idea to get opinions from your BFF’s. And rummaging through all those treasures might end up being a fun day for all involved.
Wash your clothesYes, be sure the clothing you purchase can be washed or dry-cleaned. There is a reason the clothes are called vintage. Just as you can find vintage pieces to compliment the current fashion trends, you can also use vintage to go against them. With vintage you find classics that have never gone out of style, or you can find off the wall pieces to set yourself apart from the mainstream. So enjoy shopping vintage! Have fun with the styles and set yourself apart from everyone else. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to look fabulous. Make your style a story to tell. Laura Handey is an independent clothing consultant in Pike Road, Alabama. You may reach her by email at laura@ centsiblysouthern. com or visit her website at www. centsiblysouthern. com.
If you buy items of clothing that are vintage be aware of how to mix them 48
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Feeding Program Eases Mealtime Struggles to eat. “The feeding program has been the Mealtime is a time when many families most amazing experience for me and my gather, not only to eat, but to share their child,” says Tracey Farnell. “Our therapist, day. However, in some cases, this doesn’t happen because one of the family members Amber Miller, is patient, kind and a wonderful resource. When may have difficulwe started the feeding ties with food texprogram, I could count tures or swallowon one hand how many ing. The pediatric things Brendan would eat. program at Thomas Not only were his choices Hospital offers the extremely limited, but he only comprehensive was not tolerant of having feeding program unfamiliar foods on his in the Mobile Bay plate. Before we started area. Their team the program I would try of speech-language to get him to tolerate pathologists and touching, smelling and occupational theratasting new foods. Most pists work with a attempts were unsuccesschild’s physician ful, with many attempts and family memcausing major meltdowns. bers to provide Now Brendan takes feeding and swal- For some families, going out to eat is a a lunchbox to therapy. lowing therapy for struggle, but when children try new foods in therapy, it makes mealtimes more pleasurable We’ve reached the point children of all ages. for the child and the parents. where he is very intrigued “The feedby what we prepare and ing therapists at he no longer has tantrums. I honestly think Thomas Hospital have helped me work it’s because he knows that even though he’s through my son’s feeding issues,” says Margaret Whitehurst. Her son Andrew was born going to have to try eating something he’s never tried before, which is very scary for with a tracheoesophageal fistula (connecsomeone on the tion between the esophagus autism spectrum, and trachea) that was repaired he trusts Amber, on his second day of life, but knows she cares he still has gastrointestinal about him and she symptoms including acid reflux. understands him. “Andrew’s feeding can The feeding be painful and uncomfortable program is a huge at times. Through feeding blessing to me, to therapy, we have learned how Brendan and to my to alleviate some of Andrew’s family. We recently symptoms, making our feeding went out to eat experience more enjoyable, and had what I and reducing the risk of serious call a “ successcomplications like aspiration. ful dinner out ” The therapists are not just without having there to help Andrew, but have to pack Brendan provided unbelievable support his own meal. For for me and my husband as me that is HUGE, well. They have been able to and ultimately for help ease my frustrations and Thomas Hospital therapists work with Brendan, it’s life disappointment when things caregivers and patients to find the right changing. don’t go just right and have combination of techniques to benefit helped formulate questions each family. To enlist these serthat need to be addressed by vices provided by the our doctors. We have made great strides in pediatric therapy staff at Thomas Hospital a reAndrew’s progress and it is largely due to ferral is required. All referrals require a diagnosis our wonderful and dedicated therapists.” and valid physician signature. Please contact Thomas Hospital Physical Therapy at (251) 279For some children, it is the texture, 1640 with questions or to make a referral. smell or color of food that limits their ability Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
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Teaching social development for the parent of an autistic child can be quite a stressful and
daunting task. Add in teaching life skills and you have a recipe for burnout. Although these concerns may feel like you are trying to climb an uphill battle, don’t be discouraged. A focused, patient, and consistent approach is key. In this article, we will share helpful tips and advice from some local professionals who work in the field of autism intervention. Let’s discuss social development. Your child may appear to be more withdrawn, try to isolate, or have a difficult time grasping communication concepts such as listening and following directions. Intense one-on-one interaction is best until your child appears more comfortable in gradually increasing groups. Throughout this article, several techniques are provided to help your child reach their full potential. You will hear the phrase “descriptive language”. Descriptive language refers to identifying objects as you see and use them (let’s put the pillow on the bed, the cup goes beside the plate, etc.). Here are some tips to keep in mind when working with your autistic child: Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
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1. Wait, observe and listen. It is important to observe your child’s body language and listen to what he or she is saying through his nonverbal cues. By doing this, you will not miss attempts to initiate, such as pointing, eye gazing, gestures and grunts, which all have meaning. Do not anticipate all needs; wait to be asked for things and try as much as possible to make sure you are down on his physical level. Being face-to-face allows you the opportunity to receive communication cues from your child, no matter how small, and also allows him to study and learn your nonverbal cues with limited distractions. Being down on his level and using exaggerated expressions helps you to be the most interesting thing in the room!
2. Reading together. Reading with your child can be one of the best ways to bond, as well as helping him develop the skills necessary for learning language and listening skills. Functional reading will help to set the foundation for independence later in life (cooking, shopping, scheduling daily activities‌). Some children on the spectrum have short attention spans, so you may want to select a short book or plan on reading in segments. Find a quiet comfortable room where you and your child cannot be interrupted and make sure to point out objects as you read and discuss the characters and pictures. You may find that he becomes intensely interested in one topic and wants to read everything he can on that particular subject! No matter what type of child you have, keep the reading a fun time and it can be a special time for you both. 3. Encouraging communicative gestures. Helping your child express thoughts, needs and emotions through gestures can be a wonderful tool (and can usually make for some fun games)! One tip is to secure a favorite toy inside a clear and difficult-to-open container. Hand the sealed container to him and encourage him to open. If he is unable to do so, he will then hand it back to you and gesture for you to open. This is a communicative gesture and is a foundational building block for later communication. Another tip is to place things just out of reach so he has to ask, point or gesture. Eat a favorite food in front of your child without offering any to him and wait for him to communicate that he wants some. Engage your child in constructing a block tower and then knock 53
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it down saying “uh oh!” Do this several times and then knock it down without saying anything and wait to see what your child says or does!
New program for ALL 4 & 5 year olds in foundational reading skills. Small groups of 3-4. 2 sessions per week for 6 weeks. Beginning September 8th. Choose between morning (10-10:50 am) and afternoon (1:30-2:30 pm). Call for more details! Offering systematic, multi-sensory instruction for students with language-based learning disabilities. Call for a screening or consultation.
251-625-4020 1048 Stanton Road, Suite G, Daphne, AL 36526 www.dyslexiaspecialist.net
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
Life skills are everything from preparing a meal, hygiene and grooming, money management, organization and other skills you would use to help live productively in the world around you. Establishing life skills is one of the foundations for confidence and greater independence.
All of these skills will help to encourage your child to interact with the world around him. Be patient, be consistent, use descriptive language, and keep it positive (though sometimes that can be challenging). Never feel intimidated to seek outside help for yourself or for your child. Another valuable skill to teach that fosters independence is life skills. Life skills are everything from preparing a meal, hygiene and grooming, money management, organization and other skills you would use to help live productively in the world around you. Establishing life skills is one of the foundations for confidence and greater independence. Here we will share some information to incorporate into your everyday routines with your child.
1. Establishing routines. Establishing a routine is beneficial for anybody at any age! Establishing a strong routine can help your child feel more in control of his environment as well as helping to establish the foundations for organization--an important life skill lesson as an adult. Sometimes making a simple picture chart for certain situations (undressing for bath time, getting dressed, etc.) can be a helpful tool to help him understand “what comes next”.
2. Getting dressed. Sometimes, simply getting your child dressed can be a task worthy of a sigh at least. Making sure you continue to use your descriptive phrases (shirt on, pants up, etc.) will help teach and allow the child to do as much as possible. Laying clothes out on the bed, for example, can be useful in helping your child identify in groups and learn how to follow three-step commands. Lay the clothes on a surface, ask him to get one of the articles and help walk him through the “shirt on” process. The same descriptive language used for getting dressed can be used for undressing (shirt off, pants down, socks off…). Always try to encourage him 54
to remove the clothes himself with as little help from you as possible; again, patience is key here. This may take more time in the beginning, but can help advance independence as time goes on.
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3. Making mealtime a teachable moment. For mealtimes, try to stick to the same routine of everybody sitting at the table together for each meal as much as possible. This allows for a comfortable opportunity for social interaction and practice. Have your child help you set the table by putting the napkins on the table or beside the plate. Make sure that as you are serving his plate or when you set it down on the table that you identify the objects on it. Enjoy this time with your child and family. Mealtime can be a great opportunity to learn more about each other and for you to gain support as a caregiver.
4. Maintaining a bedtime routine.
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This is a special time to read stories and spend some quality time learning more about him in a calm environment. Try to stick to the same routine every night and keep bedtime as consistent as possible. A well-rested child who knows what to expect and when to expect it, will have a greater opportunity to engage in the world around him! With an estimated 50,000 children in Alabama living with autism, new resources are popping up all over the state to help support you and your child. Become knowledgeable and take advantage of the services and support groups that are available to help support you as a caregiver and provide valuable opportunities for development in your child. ESP Varina Mead, a mother of two, Prattville native and current Director of Marketing for Easter Seals Central Alabama, has enjoyed working in the family service field for over 15 years. Raised by a single mother with Cerebral Palsy, Varina learned from an early age that she wanted to work in disability advocacy and education. Easter Seals Central Alabama is a collection of programs designed to assist children and adults with disabilities, find greater independence, enhanced quality of life, and be seen for their abilities.
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(251) 610-3277; info@handihomeandbath.com Improving Access and Safety Throughout Your Home! Licensed and Insured, we install grab bars, access ramps, enlarge doorways, remodel baths, upgrade lighting and make other changes to make your home/business more accessible. Call today for a FREE Consultation. Visa and MC accepted.
James D. Sears, EdD, JD Special Education Attorney
Law Offices of Sears & Sears, PC 7096-B Stone Drive, Daphne (251) 621-3485; searsandsearslaw.com James D. Sears has over 45 years experience in the field of special education. The Law Offices of Sears & Sears, PC assists families in navigating the educational system to ensure the best education for the child who has special needs. No representation is made that the legal services to be performed are greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
support services for children with special health care needs and their families. Every county in Alabama is served through a network of 14 community-based offices. 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. CRS staff members also work closely with local school systems to enable children with special health care needs to participate fully in school. • Vocational Rehabilitation Service (VRS) 2419 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile (251) 479-8611, (800) 671-6842, TTY: (800) 499-1816 Vocational Rehabilitation Service (VRS), the largest
Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities 100 North Union Street, Montgomery (RSA Union Building) (334) 242-3973 or (800) 232-2158; www.acdd.org Our Mission is to promote and support independence, advocacy, productivity and inclusion for Alabamians with developmental disabilities. Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services 602 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery, 36104 (334) 293-7500, (800) 441-7607; www.rehab.alabama.gov Unique in the nation, the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services is comprised of state and federal programs that provide a continuum of services from birth through life for Alabamians with disabilities. ADRS has four major programs: • Alabama’s Early Intervention System (AEIS) 1610 Center Street, Suite A, and Mobile (251) 439-7890, (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. Early intervention support and services focuses on teaching the parents and other caregiver’s ways to help the child learn and participate in everyday activities. • Children’s Rehabilitation Service (CRS) CRS District Office 1610 Center Street Suite A, Mobile (251) 432-4560, (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 Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
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. In addition, VRS works with middle schools, high schools, junior colleges and universities statewide to assist students with disabilities in receiving appropriate educational opportunities. • State of Alabama Independent Living / Homebound Service (SAIL) 2419 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile (251) 479-8611, (800) 671-6842, 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
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disabilities. The SAIL program has seven community-based offices located throughout the state to serve residents in all 67 counties. SAIL ensures the consumer can live as independently as possible at home and in the community through specialized programs. Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program 205 North Conception Street, Mobile (251) 338-0950 or (205) 534-9373; www.adap.net The Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP) is part of the nationwide federally mandated protection and advocacy (P&A) system. ADAP’s mission is to provide quality, legal 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. For more information email dslawkowski@ adap.ua.edu. Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind 1050 Government Street, Mobile (Mobile Regional Center) (251) 432-7777; (Michelle Jones, Mobile Director) www.aidb.org Our Mobile Regional Office serves Baldwin, Mobile, Clarke, Washington, Monroe, Conecuh, and Escambia Counties. The earlier children learn the better they progress. Some experts estimate that up to 20% of the skills learned in a lifetime are learned in the first five years. That’s why we place so much emphasis on helping families, and encourage families to come forward with their concerns as early as possible. Everyone around your child can be a teacher. Infants and toddlers will soak up language and information from every source. Regional Center staff members can give you the skills to make this happen. It takes time and creativity to communicate with a child who is blind or deaf, but the rewards of making that effort are incalculable. For questions call or email jones.michelle@aidb. state.al.us. Alabama Scottish Rite Learning Center (205) 365-1640; www.alsrlcenter.org Free testing for speech and language disorders including dyslexia. The Alabama Scottish Rite Learning Center offers dyslexia evaluations for Alabama school age children from age 7 through 9th grade. The foundation has a network of speech/language pathologist, available to perform this FREE service. We are happy to serve as consultants to teachers of students whom we have evaluated and who have been determined to be experiencing dyslexia, languagelearning disabilities, or severe speech or language disabilities. We will work collaboratively with teachers and other members of the IEP team to develop
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goals and benchmarks necessary to assist students in reaching their academic potential. We will also provide teachers with in-service training in the areas of identification and remediation of dyslexia. We will provide teachers with in-service training in the areas of language-learning disabilities and severe speech or language disabilities. ARC - Baldwin County 3650 South Magnolia Street, Loxley (Administrative Office) 22860 McAuliffe Drive, Robertsdale (Day Program Facility) 209 East Fern Avenue, Foley (Workshop Facility) (251) 964-4451 or (251) 978-9125; www.arcbaldwincounty.org Arc Baldwin County is a volunteer-based membership organization made up of individuals with intellectual, developmental and other disabilities, their families, friends, citizens, and professionals in the disability field. It is the mission of the ARC-BC, Inc. to ensure that appropriate and quality services are available and accessible to persons with intellectual disabilities and/or developmental disabilities throughout their life. Services will be family and individually driven and creative to specific needs. We provide a wide array of service options that can be tailored to individual and families’ needs. ARC-BC promotes family unity with community support systems and above all, enhancing the quality of life of citizens with intellectual disabilities and/or developmental disabilities in Baldwin County. Visit our website and contact our Director Kathy Fleet for more information. Community Services for Vision Rehabilitation 600 BelAir Boulevard, Suite 110, Mobile (251) 476-4744; http://www.csvrlowvision.org 29653 Anchor Cross Boulevard, Daphne (251) 928-2888; visionrehab@bellsouth.net Community Services for Vision Rehabilitation is a non-profit organization, dedicated to helping those with low vision and blindness. It has offices in Mobile, Montgomery and the Fairhope/Daphne area. The clinic provides professional evaluation by eye doctors (ODs and MDs), occupational therapists, ophthalmic technicians, computer specialists and others. It works in collaboration with state agencies and regional and national resources.
Delicious Dietician 56 Saint Joseph Street, Mobile (251) 478-2233; www.4tdd.com The Delicious Dietician offers “One- on- One” Disease Management services specific to the client’s individual needs. The Delicious Dietician understands the need for education and practical advice when dealing with health problems requiring restricted diets. Let The Delicious Dietician teach you how to live deliciously, despite having limitations with your meals. For questions email info@4tdd. com. Dianne Craft – Child Diagnostics (303) 694-0532; www.diannecraft.org Dianne Craft has a wonderful website filled with information, articles and resources for all learning disabilities including dyslexia, auditory processing and right/left brain learning. We provide nutritional therapy and supplement recommendations. You can purchase Dianne’s DVDs, CDs, Books, vitamins, and other various products through her online store. For questions email craft@ecentral.com or pamscheduling@gmail.com. Easter Seals of the Gulf Coast 2448 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile (251) 471-1581; www.goodwill-easterseals.org Easter Seals offers Parent Education and Support, Child Development Centers, Early Intervention and a Wonderful Recreation Program that provides school-age children (6 - 12) of all abilities the opportunity to participate in a variety of community activities. Sessions include gymnastics, rock wall climbing, bowling, skating, music & movement, and tee ball. The University of South Alabama assists our staff by utilizing Volunteers in the Therapeutic Recreation and Occupational Therapy programs. For local Easter Seals information call or email bill@ gesgc.org. Easter Seals of Alabama 5960 East Shirley Lane, Montgomery (334) 395-4489; www.alabama.easterseals.com Our organization consists of eight community rehabilitation program sites and the world’s largest barrier free recreational camp, Camp ASCCA. Easter Seals Alabama services include: Medical Rehabilita-
tion, Early Intervention, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Hearing Therapy, Job Training and Employment, Child Care & Camping and Recreation. We provide services for people with disabilities and their families. For more information visit our website or email info@al.easterseals.com. Learning Disabilities Association of Alabama (334) 277-9151; www.ldaal.org The Learning Disabilities Association of Alabama, Inc. (LDAA) is a non-profit grassroots organization whose members are individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and the professionals who work with them. LDAA strives to advance the education and general welfare of children and adults with learning disabilities. For local organization questions email tamara@ldaa.org. For general information email info@ldaa.org. The Listening Program (888) 228-1798; www.advancedbrain.com The Listening Program (TLP) is a music listening therapy that provides engaging brain stimulation to improve performance in school, work and life. It gently trains the auditory system to accurately process sound. Auditory processing problems can lead to academic, emotional, cognitive and social challenges, including problems with ADD, Listening, Speech & language, memory, communication, Social skills, reading, Sensory Integration, Balance and coordination and self-regulation. Auditory processing problems are often found in children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD, dyslexia and learning disabilities. For general questions and information email info@advancedbrain.com. March of Dimes Mobile Alabama Chapter 205 Lambert Street, Suite A, Mobile (251) 438-1360; www.marchofdimes.com/alabama The March of Dimes Alabama Chapter has a passion to help babies in our community start life in the healthiest way possible. Through education and intervention, we help moms-to-be learn how to take care of themselves before, during and after their pregnancy. We are also available when things don’t go as planned, providing comfort and information to families when a baby is born too soon. The Alabama Chapter also partners with
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local medical groups and organizations to establish guidelines for how to care for pregnant women and premature babies. We provide grants to researchers working to understand birth defects and premature birth and to find treatments and solutions. To find out how you can be more involved call or email Riley McDuff our Community Director at emcduff@ marchofdimes.com. Mental Health-National Alliance on Mental Illness (334) 396-4797; www.namialabama.org NAMI BALDWIN COUNTY 18635 Bull springs Road, Robertsdale (251) 965-6264; www.namibaldwincounty.org NAMI Alabama is an organization comprised of local support and advocacy groups throughout the state dedicated to improving the quality of life for persons with a mental illness in Alabama. The number of such groups is growing rapidly as families become more determined to improve treatment and care for Alabamians diagnosed with a mental illness. The mission statement/purpose of NAMI Alabama is to provide support, education, and advocacy for persons with mental illnesses, their families, and others whose lives are affected by these brain disorders. For meeting times and support groups in contact: Foley - Bob Olbrich at (251) 965-6264 or namibc@ gulftel.com. Fairhope - Vonnie Hamilton (251) 965-6264 or namibc@gulftel.com. Fairhope (Illnesses) - James Hamilton (251) 5049769 or adamanntt@gmail.com. Education - Melissa Schilling (251) 402-4115 or namibc@gulftel.com.
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
Mercy Medical – Pediatric Home Health Care 374 South Greeno Road, Fairhope (251) 621-4431; www.mercymedical.com Healthcare - Mercy Pediatric Home Care allows children to recover in the comfort of their own home with family members, rather than in a hospital. It provides cost-effective, compassionate medical care to homebound children under 18-years old who are recovering from injuries or surgeries, dealing with chronic or complicated diagnoses or other serious health problems. In addition to the psychological and emotional advantages of recovering at home, Mercy Pediatric Home Care saves healthcare dollars, reduces the likelihood of complications such as infection and provides high-tech medical care by a skilled, specially trained team of healthcare professionals. Mercy Pediatric Home Care also supports the family by offering educational, nutritional, and spiritual counseling and assistance in securing resources. For resource information email homecare@mercymedical.com. Mobile Association for the Blind 2440 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile (Mobile Association for the Blind) (251) 473-3585, (877) 292-5463; www.mobileblind.org In 1924, a group of concerned citizens in Mobile started the Mobile The Mobile Association for the Blind is a facility where many visually impaired individuals who are not able to join the public workforce are employed in our Sheltered Workshop. Our organization also provides assistance to other citizens with disabilities. Counseling and evaluation, skills training, and job placement are just some of the services we provide to help create the self-
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esteem needed to become productive members of society. For more information contact our director James Bullock at jbullock@mobileblind.org. Mulherin Custodial Home 2496 Halls Mill Road, Mobile (251) 471-1998; www.mulherinhome.com Mulherin Home provides a home for individuals, children and adults with developmental disabilities. Our foremost concern is the happiness, comfort, and welfare of the residents at Mulherin Home. The Mulherin Custodial Home is a 501(c) (3) organization, and a United Way agency. Santa America 308 Belrose Avenue, Daphne (251) 626-6609; www.santa-america.org Santa America is a national volunteer service organization with a very special mission. Over one hundred Santa’s across America visit children and families in crisis. Santa Claus visits when a child or family needs him—twelve months a year—bringing love, hope and joy to special needs children in a loving visit of about an hour at home, hospital, or hospice. Santa’s visits are free. There is no charge for a visit from Santa Claus—ever. For more information visit our website or email santaernest@ santa-america.org. Sight Savers America 337 Business Circle, Pelham, AL (877) 942-2627; www.sightsaversamerica.org Sight Savers America is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) that assists children with obtaining eye exams, glasses, and other needed eye care from local eye care providers and clinics. Children are referred to
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Sight Savers via failed vision screenings at school, referrals from teachers, school administrators, school nurses, eye-care professionals and parents. Children of families who qualify for our program receive the eye care they need at no cost to the family. Sight Savers has set the standard in followup vision care. At Sight Savers, we work with the members of our extensive volunteer network of eye care providers to arrange comprehensive eye care including scheduling appointments and transportation, making arrangements for eyeglasses, medications, eye surgeries, vision aids, or any other prescribed treatment. Speech-Language-Hearing Association of Alabama (256) 325-8885; www.alabamashaa.org ASHA is committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language, and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively. Please contact Vickie Copeland at info@alabamashaa.org. S. W. Regional School for the Deaf and Blind 3980 Burma Road, Mobile (251) 221-5454; www.afb.org Local website; http://regional.mcs.schoolinsites.com (please note, using www with this address does not work, you must type in http://) We Serve 6 counties and 300 students in Southwest Alabama including Mobile. The Regional School has an elementary campus that educates deaf and blind students ages three years to fifth grade. There are satellite campuses of the Regional School at a local middle and high school, allowing students to easily transition to the next grade. Students from surround-
ing counties attend the Regional School and itinerant teachers provide services at their local schools. The Regional School is unique because special needs students are able to remain in their home environment and receive collaborative vision and hearing impaired services from experienced and qualified staff. For more information email mlwcasey@mcpss.com.
Coastal Counseling Associates Dr. Sharon Ann Friday, PHD, LPC 307 South McKenzie Street, Foley, (251) 955-1232 Helping families stay together and deal with special needs issues. Specializing in trauma. Please call our office today for more information and to schedule appointments.
Counseling
CrossRhodes at The Centre Linda Colclough MS, LPC 1290 Main Street, Suite E, Daphne (251) 625-0118; www.thecounselingcentre.com The Centre’s CrossRhodes Art Therapy Program provides counseling for children who are facing life-threatening illnesses. The nurturing therapeutic environment allows them to ask questions and express feelings in a healthy, healing way. Art becomes an added voice for telling their story. It gives them a self-soothing avenue to practice coping strategies they can use in their daily lives.
Chris Murphee, Psy.D.
761 Middle Street, Fairhope (251) 928-4750; www.ChrisMurphree.org Dr. Murphree is a licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents. Types of evaluations offered are Learning Problems, ADHD, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Functioning, Behavioral Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Abuse/Trauma and Depressive Disorders. The office accepts Aetna, AllKids, American Behavioral, Blue Advantage, Blue Cross/ Blue Shield of Alabama, Cigna, Compsych, Magellan, Medicaid, Medicare, MHCA, State EIB, United Behavioral Health and Value Options. For questions email eastbaypsych@att.net. Center for Calm Living Dr. David Kantra and Augusta Kantra, MS, LPC 150 South Church Street, Fairhope (251) 928-5363; www.kantratherapy.com Treatment specialization includes psychological testing, ADD, LD, strengths, relationship needs and individual and family therapy. Please visit the website for a list of other services. For questions email drkantra@gmail.com.
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CrossRhodes at The Centre (2nd Location) 1507 Dauphin Street, Mobile (in Dauphin Way UMC) (251) 625-0118; www.thecounselingcentre.com The Centre is a private not-for-profit clinical practice. The Centre offers Faith-Based interdenominational resources that allow psychological healing for those who are struggling with life’s problems. The Centre specializes in services for children related to issues with behavior at home or school, ADHD/LD, depression/anxiety and grief. Psycho-educational evaluations and family counseling are also available.
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Crossway Counseling Center, Inc. 27625 U.S. Highway 98, Daphne (251) 626-7959; www.crosswaycounseling.org CrossWay Counseling is a full Service Counseling Center assisting children and their families with the challenges presented by special needs. Our professionally trained counselors apply their knowledge of psychology and Biblical principles to serve individuals, couples, and families. The staff is trained to deal with a wide range of issues. You are encouraged to visit the Therapists page of the website for a summary of each therapist’s experience and his/her areas of specialty. For more information call or email crosswaycounseling@att.net. Focal Point Professional Services Barry Swope, LPC 6642 Park Drive, Ste. B, Daphne (251) 625-6448, www.focalpointps.com We offer ADHD and ADD assessments and related services. Our services also include individual and family counseling, drug treatment and conduct/ emotional problems with adolescents. For a list of other services, please visit our website or email bswope@focalpointps.com. Larry D. Faison, Ph.D. 18311 Wisconsin Street, Robertsdale (251) 605-6927 Specializing in ADD, bi-polar disorder, behavior problems, and depression. We offer testing, counseling and consultation for children and adults. Evening and Saturday appointments are also available.
Professional Counseling Associates Eastern Shore Counseling 29000 Highway 98, Ste. 305, Daphne (251) 626-5797; www.easternshorecounseling.com Faith based counseling services including AD/HD screenings, anxiety issues, relationship counseling and depression. Please visit the website for a full list of counseling services offered. Stephanie Wright Williamson, LLCU 306 South Greeno Road, Fairhope (251) 379-0531; burlsandwoo@gmail.com My passion is helping individuals, families and children support each other in every stage of life. I provide counseling services with Asperger’s Syndrome, ADHD, OCD, teen violence, parenting, family conflict, substance abuse, depression and coping skills. Please call or email for more information.
PHYSICAL & SPEECH THERAPY Kids Kount- Therapy Services, LLC
26420 Kensington Place, Suite C, Daphne (251) 517-0355; www.facebook.com/ KidsKountTherapy Kids Kount Therapy Services was established with a primary mission to foster a sense of achievement within each child and to improve the quality of life for those children and their families. Kids Kount Therapy Services recognizes and respects the uniqueness of every child. We firmly believe that every child deserves an opportunity to learn and
play with optimal function at home, at school, and across all social settings. Each child is assessed and treated with an individualized program to meet his or her developmental learning needs. 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 for children from birth to 21 years.
Therapy Services at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital
1610 Center Street, Mobile (251) 415-1670; www.usahealthsystem.com Therapy Services at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital offers a team-oriented program of pediatric physical, occupational and speech-language therapies. Services are provided on both an inpatient and outpatient basis. We offer pediatric-specific care for infants and children with varied diagnoses. Services include assessment and treatment of: Developmental Delays, Orthopedic Injuries, Neuromuscular Problems—Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, etc., Burns and Wounds, Speech and Language Deficits, Feeding Problems, Sensory Problems, Attention Problems & Loss of Function Due to Chronic Illness.
Thomas Hospital Pediatric Rehabilitation
212 Hospital Drive, Suite B, Fairhope
Types of Evaluations Offered: Learning Problems Anxiety Disorders Mood Disorders ADHD Dr. Murphree is a licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents.
Abuse/Trauma Depressive Disorders Behavioral Disorders Autistic Spectrum Disorders Intellectual Functioning
Accepting Aetna, All Kids, American Behavioral, Blue Advantage, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, Cigna, Compsych, Magellan, Medicaid, Medicare, MHCA, State EIB, United Behavioral Health, Value Options
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East Bay Psychiatry and Associates (251) 928-4750 eastbaypsych@att.net
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
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(251) 279-1640; rich.rammel@infirmaryhealth.org Facebook Page - Infirmary Health Pediatric Therapy Thomas Hospital’s Pediatric Rehabilitation Department provides comprehensive care to children who require occupational, physical, and speech therapy. Located in the Wellness Center at Thomas Hospital, we offer an environment where all 3 therapies can work together with families to guarantee each child is receiving exactly what he or she needs. Our facility enables us to meet the unique needs of our patients from birth through adolescence and allows parents to be an integral part of their child’s therapy. Therapy gyms and offices have viewing windows and headphone systems for parents to observe their child’s therapy sessions, full spectrum lighting to enhance learning needs of patients, and wireless laptop computers to further diminish distractions. Some of the specialized treatment modalities provided at Thomas Hospital include: Vital-Stem neuro-muscular electrical stimulation for Dysphagia, Augmentative/Alternative communication training and support, Ipad applications, Integrated Listening System training (ILs), Interactive Metronome, TheraSuit, Lite Gait, Braces, AFOs, splinting, and a comprehensive team for feeding/ swallowing therapy.
SHE HOLDS THE HOUSE RECORD FOR “MOST STATE CAPITALS RECALLED IN FIVE MINUTES” AND “BIGGEST HOLE DUG IN THE BACKYARD FOR NO APPARENT REASON.”
USA Speech and Hearing Clinic
1119 HAHN, 5721 USA Drive North, Mobile (251) 445-9378; www.usahealthsystem.com www.southalabama.edu/alliedhealth/speechandhearing/clinic.html The clinic serves two primary purposes: to provide services in speech, language and hearing to citizens of Mobile and surrounding areas and to provide the supervised clinical experiences needed by the students for graduation and to obtain professional licensure/certification. Because the USA Speech and Hearing Clinic functions as a service facility and teaching facility, activities and procedures address both purposes. Diagnostic and treatment services in speech, language and hearing are provided to persons of all ages and with all types of speechlanguage and hearing disorders. Buckaroo Barn 39821 Duffee Lane, Bay Minette (251) 604-3904; www.buckaroobarnllc.com Kristye Chastang is a Physical Therapist specializing in Hippotherapy for special little buckaroos. Specially trained physical and occupational therapists use this treatment for patients with disabilities. The therapist can direct the movement of the horse and analyzes the patient’s responses and adjusts the treatment accordingly. Hippotherapy is a medical treatment, which uses the movement of the horse to influence the rider’s posture, balance, function, and sensory processing. It’s rewarding for everyone involved and is so much fun you won’t even know its therapy! Visit our website or call for session information. Equine Education Consultants, Inc. 268 Equine Circle, Daphne (251) 210-8819; www.lakeforeststables.org Equine Educational Consultants, Inc. was created to provide an opportunity for those with special needs to experience the joy and motivation that horses provide just by allowing us to share their world. For more information call or email tonya@lakeforeststables.org.
and at Children’s of Alabama we want to see every child grow up and live to their fullest potential. That’s why we recruit, train and retain the most inquiring minds, the most skilled hands and the most compassionate hearts in pediatric medicine.
C H I L D R E N A M A Z E U S E V E R Y D AY
September is Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders Month. For information and ways you can help, visit ChildrensAL.org/CommittedToACure. 1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 ChildrensAL.org
We’re committed to a cure and you can be too.
Gulf Coast Therapy www.gulfcoasttherapy.com 21040 Miflin Road, Foley; (251) 923-0888 9890 Twin Beech Road, Fairhope; (251) 928-7312
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Gulf Coast Therapy is a state-of-the-art outpatient therapy center serving Mobile and Baldwin County. We are committed to offering our patients a center of excellence for the treatment of pain and/or disability. The mission of Gulf Coast Therapy is to provide our patients with the skills they need in order to function at their highest level of independence and increase their quality of life. Services include: early intervention, outpatient pediatrics and school-based therapy. Melanie Waters -Spoken Word Speech Language Services LLC 29000 Highway 98 Suite 102C, Daphne (251) 786-8255; www.spokenwordspeech.com At Spoken Word Speech Language Services, evaluation and treatment are available for the following areas: speech sound problems (including childhood apraxia of speech), poor listening skills, auditory processing disorder, reading difficulties such as dyslexia, social pragmatic deficits, stuttering, late talkers, and communication problems associated with autism. Fast ForWord products and monitoring are also available. We also offer payment options by Check or credit card; private pay - insurance diagnostic codes are also provided. Hours of business are flexible. Therapy may also be offered at your child’s school or daycare/preschool during morning hours of the school year. For more information email mel.spokenword@gmail.com. Shelley Scott BS & MSCCC-SLP Speech Pathologist 11125 Pontchartrain Loop, Daphne (251) 767-2366; www.scilearn.com Certified provider of Fast ForWord, a neuro cogni-
tive computer program. For more information email speechpath123@aol.com. South Baldwin Regional Medical Center 1613 North McKenzie Street, Foley (251) 949-3580; www.southbaldwinrmc.com South Baldwin Regional Medical Center’s Outpatient Therapy Center offers a variety of services, including Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy. From the initial evaluation until the time of discharge, patients receive one-on-one care from our team, a compassionate and skilled group of licensed therapists and therapy assistants – some with almost two decades of therapy experience. 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. Outpatient Orthopedics.
FINANCIAL The Rileigh & Raylee Angel Ride Foundation
(251) 243-0365; www.angel-ride.org The Rileigh and Raylee Angel Ride Foundation is a foundation started by the inspiration of two children -Rileigh Glass and Raylee Odom. Rileigh was born with Down syndrome and Raylee with Muscular Dystrophy. Their genetic conditions brought to light the hardships a family is challenged with when caring for children with special medical needs. A small group of family and friends took this awareness and turned it into the determination to
establish a funding program that could help families faced with similar circumstances. The mission of the foundation is to provide financial assistance to families of children with unforeseen health problems. Upon careful review of an applicant’s files, awards are distributed on a needs basis. All files are documented with medical diagnosis, physician recommendations, family income, expense records; and an estimated cost of transportation, food and lodging. The Foundation genuinely seeks to assist families faced with financial burdens when health complications are not covered by health plans. The 13th Annual Angel Ride & Concert will be October 30, 31 and November 1, 2014 at Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope, Alabama. Tickets on sale in July!! For more information email info@angel-ride.com. Alabama Department of Mental Health 100 Union Street, Montgomery (800) 367-0955 or (334) 242- 3454; www. mh.alabama.gov The Alabama Department of Mental Health envisions a future for Alabama when everyone with a mental health need at any state of life has access to effective care and supports essential for living, working, learning and participating fully in the community with dignity, respect and hope. Disabled Children Relief Fund (516) 377-1605; www.dcrf.com Disabled Children’s Relief Fund (DCRF), a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization, provides disabled children with assistance to obtain wheelchairs, orthopedic braces, walkers, lifts, hearing aids, eyeglasses, medical equipment, physical therapy, and surgery. Blind, Deaf, Amputees, and children with Cerebral
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Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, Spastic Quadriplegia, Encephalitis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Spina Bifida, Down’s syndrome, and other disabilities receive assistance. DCRF focuses special attention on helping children throughout the U.S. that do not have adequate health insurance, especially the physically challenged. Family Support 1050 Government Street, Mobile (251) 438-1609; www.famsupport.com Family Support is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that brings together Alabamians with disabilities, their families, and supporters to provide assistance to their neighbors with disabilities. Assistance is “whatever is necessary” within available funds, and may include information and referrals, home modifications, food, clothing, therapy, prescription drugs, utilities assistance, childcare, special holiday help, etc. Individual and Parent Support Dr. Gerald Oveson, Director (251) 209-0453 Providing financial support to families with developmental disabilities and head/spinal cord injuries. For more information email susanpolizzi@comcast.net. Medicaid Waiver Program www.medicaid.alabama.gov Visit our website for more information about intellectual disabilities waiver and living at home waiver. State of Alabama Independent Living Waiver (800) 441-7607; www.medicaid.alabama.gov/ CONTENT/4.0_Programs/4.3.0_LTC/4.3.1.5_State_ Ala_Ind_Liv_Waiver.aspx This waiver program provides services to disabled adults age 18 years or older who have specific medical diagnoses and who would otherwise qualify for care in a nursing care facility. Diagnoses may include but not limited to; Quadriplegia, Traumatic Brain Injury, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Multiple Sclerosis, Muscular dystrophy, Spinal muscular atrophy, severe cerebral palsy, Stroke, and other substantial neurological impairments, severely debilitating disease or rare genetic diseases (such as Lesch-Nyhan disease).
SCHOOLS & EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES Read-Write
1048 Stanton Road Suite G, Daphne (251) 625-4020; readwrite13@gmail.com 5472 –C Old Shell Road, Mobile (251) 287-1822; readwrite02@gmail.com At Read-Write, we offer educational consulting, screening and one-on-one therapy for students with language based learning disabilities such as dyslexia. We also offer reading readiness for 4 and 5 year olds. Visit our website at www.dyslexiaspecialist.net. Baldwin County Public School System (251) 972-6860; www.bcbe.org The Baldwin County School System offers speechlanguage 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,
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Speech or Language Impairment, Traumatic Brain Injury and Visual Impairment. For more information call or email our Special Services Department at bmenglish@bcbe.org. Bright Beginnings School 1901 Schillinger Road, Mobile (251) 689-8253; www.brightdyslexics.com Bright Beginnings School was developed to give parents an alternative for their children’s education. Each child is unique and should be taught in unique ways. At Bright Beginnings each child is individually challenged and taught to meet his/her specific needs. An individual educational plan is developed for each child and is taught in small group settings. Full day academic programs specialize in dyslexia. All subjects. Available for grades 1-5. High Hopes Campus of St. Benedict’s School 12786 South Illinois Street, Elberta (251) 986-7007; www.highhopes4autism.org Our objective is to prepare children affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental delays to independently participate in a traditional classroom. At High Hopes we specialize in preschool age children. We encourage parents and families to seek appropriate services for their child as soon as a need is suspected. Diagnosis is not required for any of our programs. We understand that it takes the whole family to make real progress. We practice research based Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) techniques. We offer Individual ABA Therapy and Shadowing in the classroom. We also offer computer monitoring from your home while your child is in therapy. For more information email info@highhopes4autism.org. Huntington Learning Center 6880 Us Highway 90, Ste. 13, Daphne, AL (251) 621-1057; www.daphne.huntingtonhelps.com Imagine going from a class of 20 to a class of 1. We realize no two students are the same, and we stand by the philosophy that a child learns faster and more effectively when he or she has a teacher and lesson plan devoted to the child’s individual needs. We build a personalized learning program for your child based on his or her individual
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strengths and needs, which we identify using our in-depth academic evaluation. Our highly trained teachers then work one-to-one with your child while still fostering a sense of independence. We make sure to teach at a pace comfortable for your child, ensuring he or she never falls behind. The Learning Tree 4979 Lott Road, Eight Mile (251) 649-4420; www.learning-tree.org The Learning Tree, Inc. is a non-profit organization that provides educational and residential services for children and adolescents, ages 2 ½ -21, with developmental disabilities, including autism. The organization also provides and Individual and professional consultation and training. Programs are located in Mobile, Anniston, Auburn Jacksonville, and Tallassee. The Learning Tree-Woody’s Song School 5459 Able Court, Mobile (251) 331-8021; www.learning-tree.org Woody’s Song serves children ages 5-18 on the autism spectrum. The private, nonprofit school is a tuition-based, twelve month, day program. Woody’s Song helps children with autism increase their skills in the areas of language, socialization and cognitive skills while decreasing behaviors that interfere with their learning. The Think Tank 355 Manchester Lane, Foley (251) 414-4494; www.thinktankminds.com The Think Tank Tutoring provides one-on-one in-home tutoring to general education, learning disabled and homebound students. In addition to working one-on-one with students, The Think Tank tutors provide educational strategies to parents during each tutoring session. The Think Tank Tutoring and Educational Services works directly with the student’s teachers ensuring we follow the Individual Education Plan for special needs students. In addition, we follow the student’s current classroom curriculum. The Think Tank Tutoring provides homework help, test preparation, and study skills to students in grades Pre-K through 12 in all subjects. We have qualified educators to work with ADD, ADHD, hearing impaired, MR, Dyslexic, and speech
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impaired students. For questions email thinktankminds@gmail.com. WyzAnt Tutoring www.wyzant.com Looking for a tutor that specializes in working with your child’s special needs? Simply visit the website, type in the type of special need (ADD, Autism, Down Syndrome, Asperger’s, etc.) and your zip code to be connected with tutors in your area. Our “Good Fit Guarantee” protects your first hour with any tutor. You don’t pay for tutoring unless you find a good fit!
RECREATION & SOCIAL EVENTS Alligator Alley
19500 County Road 71, Summerdale (251) 946-BITE (2483); www.gatoralleyfarm.com Alligator Alley is ADA compliant. With over 20 acres of natural cypress swampland, our alligators roam freely in a protected environment. The whole family can safely observe alligators feeding, courting, and nesting from our elevated boardwalk. You’ll also observe other wild life such as: Ospreys, Owls, Turtles, Bull Frogs, and various field animals. In our gift shop area, we also display other amphibians, reptiles, and rare species. Call for more information or to schedule a tour!
Bay City Gymnastics
7980 American Way, Daphne (251) 621-2112; www.bcgagymnastics.com Now offering Special Needs field trips! Come and join us to “let loose” and have fun at Bay City Gymnastics. Did you know that gymnastics is the greatest overall body conditioning activity that you can have your child involved in? It develops strength, flexibility, kinesthetic awareness, muscular control, endurance, coordination, agility, speed, balance, courage, grace, posture and poise! Your children will be gaining so many valuable tools while having so much fun! For more information call or email bcgagym@att.net.
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The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast
28788 North Main Street Daphne, Al 36526 (251) 625-8955; www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the social, recreational and artistic abilities of the special needs community. EFGC provides daily programs, which include arts & crafts, music, social events and Special Olympics. Our program is available to the special needs individual upon completion of high school. We will also be offering a summer program for school-aged children starting the summer of 2015. Our Hours are Monday and Thursday from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. For more information contact Jennifer Flad, Executive Director at Jennifer.Flad@ exceptionalfoundationgc.org.
Heart of a Dancer at Creative Outlet
66 South Section Street, Fairhope (located in Creative Outlet Dance) (251) 517-7159; www.creativeoutletdance.com “Heart of a Dancer “ Dance classes, led by Laura Bishop, a special needs teacher at Fairhope Elementary, will be available for any exceptional student that is interested in having fun, learning dance routines and experiencing the joy of learning as part of a group through creative movement. Creative Movement encourages dance in an interactive environment where children share space as they explore movement together. In the special needs class, students can experience sensory awareness, gross motor development and participate at their own level and ability.
Thomas Hospital Rehabilitation Playground
750 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope (251) 279-1640; www.infirmaryhealth.org Climbing on a rock wall or playing on a seesaw can be a lot of fun for children but for the pediatric rehab patients at Thomas Hospital, those exercises also offer a fun alternative to traditional Occupational and Physical Therapy. The department’s new playground offers a safe way to help special needs children with their strength, coordination and balance. The playground, funded by the Thomas Hospital Foundation, includes a rock wall, balance beam, monkey bars, over head glider, chin bar, see saw, disc swing and a therapeutic seat swing all on a state-of-the-art cushioned flooring system. Access To Recreation 8 Sandra Court, Newbury Park, CA. (800) 634-4351; www.accesstr.com Provides exercise and recreational equipment for people with disabilities. Online equipment items such wheelchair accessories, daily living, replacement parts, bath and shower accessories, Lifts, safety equipment, ramps, manual and power chairs, etc. AMBUCS (800) 838-1845; www.ambucs.org A charitable service organization dedicated to creating mobility and independence for people with disabilities by providing AmTryke therapeutic tricycles to children with disabilities.
Back Country Trail 3801 Orange Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach (Gulf State Park) (251) 981-1180; www.backcountrytrail.com We are ADA compliant. Explore the beauty and diversity of the Back Country Trail! Six trails among six distinct ecosystems make up more than 11 miles of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail complex through Orange Beach and the Gulf State Park. Explore the timeless beauty of the Butterfly Garden, the mystical Freshwater Marshes and the Coastal Hardwood Swamps. Catch a glimpse of a Bobcat on the Twin Bridges or a White Tailed Deer on Gulf Oak Ridge. View an alligator basking in the sun and be sure to bring your camera to capture the adventure. For trail maps, pictures, locations and other information please visit the website. Baldwin County Special Olympics (251) 972-6854; Dawn Frenette For more information email dfrenette@bcbe.org or visit us on Facebook. Boy Scouts of South Alabama (251) 476-4600; www.bsamobile.org Deaf and hard of Hearing Studio at the Centre for the Living Arts 301 Conti Street, Mobile (251) 208-5658; www.centreforthelivingarts.com Deaf and hard of hearing students will have art classes which will be led by professional artists with an ASL interpreter provided by AIDB. Family participation is encouraged. RSVP required. Please check our website for class schedule. For more information or to register, please contact: Joy Antar (AIDB)
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at antar.joy@aidb.state.al.us or (251) 281-2333 or Brennan Gibson (Centre for the Living Arts) at cla. gibson@cityofmobile.org or (251) 208-5658. Disabled Sports USA 4000 Ridgeway Drive, Birmingham www.lakeshore.org; Jeff Underwood (301) 217-0960; www.disabledsportsusa.org Disabled Sports USA’s mission is to provide national leadership and opportunities for individuals with disabilities to develop independence, confidence, and fitness through participation in community sports, recreation and educational programs. These sports opportunities transform the people we serve, highlighting the potential in each of us, embodied in our motto: “If I can do this, I can do anything!” Each year through our nationwide network, we serve over 60,000 youth, wounded warriors and adults annually, through a nationwide network of over 100 community-based chapters in 37 states nationwide in over 30 different sports. For more information email us at info@dusa.org. Exceptional Arts Drama by Sunnyside Theater 63 Midtown Park East, Mobile (251) 510-1808; www.azaleacityarts.com Sunnyside Theater proudly presents Exceptional Arts Drama. Drama and Theater classes for adults and children with special needs ages 8 – 80! Classes are held on Tuesday nights from 6pm – 8pm. For more information please contact Chris Paragone at azaleacity@mindspring.com or call (251) 510-1808. Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (800) 239-6636 or (251) 344-3330; www.girlscoutssa.org Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama, Inc. (GSSA) builds girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. GSSA focuses on activities and lessons that build leadership skills and develop a strong sense of self-worth. It is a safe and encouraging environment that challenges individuals and groups to make a difference in the world and create lasting friendships. For more information on how to become a volunteer or a Girl Scout, please call or email GSSA at Communications@girlscoutssa.org. Hope Outdoors 453 Deerpatch Road, Chatom (251) 769-0711 or (251) 769-5642; www.hopeoutdoors.org Glenn & Karen Sansing, Alabama Chapter Directors Hope Outdoors has a passion to spread the love of God and provide the fun of the great outdoors to those who may be ill or challenged. Some are looking to be re-introduced into an activity they once loved, while others are discovering a new and exciting way to live life to its fullest. We provide opportunities for fishing, deer hunts, archery shoots, bird and turkey hunts, and other ways to get close to nature and enrich lives no matter the challenges life may have given you. We now have chapters in Alabama, Arkansas, Tennessee, Missouri, and 3 chapters in Mississippi. All events are free to participants and their families. Hope Outdoors provides all meals, game processing and licenses. Participants are only responsible for travel to and from the event. Our Alabama event will be held the 3rd weekend in January 2015. Applications can be found on our website. To find out how you can be a part of Hope Outdoors call or visit our website today. Visit us on Facebook for photos and event updates.
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SNAP (Special Needs Athletes Programs) Skyline Lanes, Mobile (251) 285-0224; www.snapofalabama.com Our mission is to give developmentally disabled citizens in the greater Mobile, Baldwin County Alabama area, the opportunity to participate in recreational sports with others of the same skill level and to have fun doing it. For more information contact us at joe@snapofalabama.com. Starfish-Special Olympics Swim Team (251) 978-0295; www.gulfshoresstarfish.webs.com Sharon Brindle, Coach The Starfish swim team trains handicapped participants to qualify for the State Special Olympics in Baldwin County. Visit us on Facebook for news and events. VSA of Alabama, Art Partners (205) 307-6300; www.vsaalabama.org VSA Alabama is a statewide, nonprofit organization dedicated to “serving children and adults with chronic illnesses and disabilities through the arts.” Programs offered by VSA Alabama include: visual arts, music therapy, therapeutic drumming & rhythm, art therapy, drama, creative movement, and creative writing. Annually, VSA Alabama serves over 3,000 people with disabilities and chronic illnesses through our programming in community, educational, and healthcare settings across Alabama. ArtPartners program provides people living with disabilities and chronic illnesses the chance to develop meaningful relationships with artists in our community while creating collaborative masterpieces. The ArtPartners program makes a lasting impression on everyone involved and the memo-
ries created last forever. This program is FREE to participants! The Eastern Shore Art Center has participated in this unique program since its inception. For more information, visit www.esartcenter.com. Westside’s Challenger League (251) 633-9853; www.westsidebaseball.com This Division of Babe Ruth Buddy Ball is a program for mentally and physically challenged youth, helping them to enjoy the full benefits of participation in an athletic environment structured to their abilities. More than the skills of baseball learned through the experience, the value of the Babe Ruth Buddy Ball in the proven therapeutic and socialization benefits of participating in sports, the strengthening of participants’ self-esteem, the opportunities to mainstream into other divisions of play, and the disciplines of teamwork, sportsmanship and fair play.
RECREATION CAMPS Camp ASCCA
5278 Camp Ascca Drive, Jackson Gap, Al (256) 825-9226, (800) THE-CAMP; www.campascca.org ASCCA is an acronym that stands for Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults. Beginning in 1976, Camp ASCCA has been a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation and is known throughout the world for its superior quality services. Providing camping experiences for children and adults with disabilities, Camp ASCCA is open year-round. Within its barrier-free environment, Camp ASCCA offers 230 wooded acres on the
shores of beautiful Lake Martin in Alabama. Camp ASCCA serves an average of 7,000 people annually. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a “splash pad”, outdoor adventure elements like the zip-line, and much more. For more information email info@campascca.org. Camp Bridges 1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham Located at Children’s Harbor, Lake Martin, AL (205) 558- 2090; www.campbridges.org Our mission is to provide camps and programs to pre and post transplant children, teens, young adults and their families from Alabama and neighboring states. We create a fun and educational environment for heart, kidney, liver and lung transplant recipients that encourage positive self image and healthy transplant living. Those served receive and provide peer support and form lasting friendships to better cope with the unique challenges of transplantation. For more information email info@ campbridges.com. Camp Mash (251) 599-5688; www.campmash.org Camp M.A.S.H. is a weeklong recreational program for children ages 7 to 17 with a form of juvenile arthritis or a related autoimmune disease. Our camp is planned specifically for the needs of our campers in order to empower them to live life to the fullest and to build friendships with other folks who are on similar journeys with their conditions. Camp M.A.S.H. is offered at NO COST to our families. We have some set activities that are just everyone’s favorite things to do like fishing, swimming and
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the ropes course, as well as horses, archery, and arts & crafts. We also have some surprises each year based on that summer’s theme. You never know what we will have planned to make this the best week of your camper’s year. 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 from surrounding areas as we have space. Camp-Rap-A-Hope 2701 Airport Boulevard, Mobile (251) 476-9880; www.camprapahope.org Camp Rap-A-Hope is an organization that provides a week-long summer camp at Camp Grace in Mobile, Alabama and is open to children between the ages of 7 and 17 who have or have ever had cancer. The camp is offered at no cost to the campers and their families, as cancer has been costly enough. Each year the children enjoy a typical summer camp environment that includes swimming, kayaking, horseback riding, arts and crafts and many other activities depending on the theme for the year. Many of these children have forgotten what it’s like to be a ‘kid’ because much of their childhood has been spent hearing the sounds and seeing the inside of hospitals. It is our privilege to give a part of their childhood back to them through a week of fun-filled camping activities. Camp Rap-A-Hope offers additional opportunities for “fun” throughout the year. Family fun days and Holiday parties are a few ways that Camp continues the fun for the Campers and their families. For questions email info@camprapahope.org.
Camp Smile-a-Mile (205) 323-8427, (888) 500-7920; www.campsam.org A year round challenging, recreational and educational experience for young cancer patients, their families as well as young adult survivors from Alabama at no cost. 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. Camp Sugar Falls & Camp Seale Harris (205) 402-0415; www.campsealeharris.org Southern Diabetes Education Services camps and local community programs provide needed diabetes education, encouragement, and friendships for children with diabetes and their families. Camp is a place where having diabetes is the norm; where you can compare and share stories with peers; and where you don’t have to explain diabetes all the time because everyone here “gets it.” They understand exactly what it’s like living with diabetes, because they live with diabetes too. 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 to provide safe supervision and real time feedback join trained adult volunteer counselors with diabetes. Camps include fun activities that vary by location. Local programs include safe family-oriented recreation throughout the year. Lakeshore Foundation 4000 Ridgeway Drive, Birmingham (205) 313-7400; www.lakeshore.org Lakeshore is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization, serving people with physical disabilities throughout
Alabama, across the country and around the world. Since 1984, Lakeshore has helped advance and promote the impact of 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 disability and chronic health conditions to lead healthy, active and independent lifestyles through physical activity, sports, recreation and research. Space Camp and Aviation Challenge (800) 637-7223, (256) 837-3400; www.spacecamp. com/specialprograms Space Camp and Aviation Challenge offer a variety of programs for special needs students. We offer Space Camp and Aviation Challenge programs specifically designed for special needs students, including camps for blind, and/or visually impaired, deaf and/or hard-ofhearing, and a week at the end of summer designated for special needs youth.
DISABILITY-SPECIFIC RESOURCES ADD/ADHD (Please refer to the Counselors section for a list of counselors that also provide testing and additional resources)
Dr. Renee Lopez
401 North Section St, Fairhope (251) 928-5058; www.MaximizedLivingDrLopez.com
Eastern Shore Adult & Family Medicine Andrew Dukes, M.D. Dr. Dukes is board certified with 20 years of experience in family medicine.
• Well baby care (2 weeks and up) • Pediatrics • Adolescent check-ups • Positive youth development • Immunizations • Sports physicals
Accepting new patients.
251-929-3424
More, devoted to your care.
Andrew Dukes, M.D. • John McDuff, M.D. 300 South Greeno Rd., Suite B, Fairhope, AL 36532 Eastern Shore Parents I September 20141 IMC_1757_ESAFM_ESParent_Hlfpg_Ad_2013.indd
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Dr. Lopez is the co-developer of Autism Whispers, a national program certifying physicians in the prevention, treatment and recovery of Autism and other Neurodevelopmental disorders (including ADD/ADHD). The program is complete with the Autism Whispers Parent’s Guide, which includes biomedical interventions to evaluate and support neurological, immunologic and metabolic challenges children on the spectrum face. Where to start, what to expect, recipes and meal planning are just a few sections in the Parent’s Guide. Dr. Lopez’s second book is Brain Kids. Its core focus is on empowering parents to grow and develop a healthy brain in children during the following stages of growth and life: 3 month pre-conception, throughout pregnancy, infancy, early childhood and adolescence. Dr. Lopez is a DAN! Doctor and a Generation Rescue Doctor. She is committed to helping all children and their parents lead healthier, more integrated and purposed lives. For more information email kylelopez@ bellsouth.net or reneelopez@bellsouth.net.
Bayshore Christian School
CHRISTIAN COLLEGE FAIR NIGHT
Attention Deficit Disorder Assoc. (ADDA) (800) 939-1019; www.add.org The Attention Deficit Disorder Association provides information; resources and networking opportunities to help adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder lead better lives. We provide hope, empowerment and connections worldwide by bringing together science and the human experience for both adults with ADHD and professionals who serve them. For more information call or email info@add.org. Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders (CHAD) (800) 233-4050; www.chadd.org Provides education, advocacy and support for individuals with AD/HD. In addition to our informative Web site, CHADD also publishes a variety of printed materials to keep members and professionals current on research advances, medications and treatments affecting those with AD/HD. Feingold Association of the United States (800) 321-3287; www.feingold.org Provides informational materials, online/telephone support, and resources. Helps families introduce lowadditive dietary programs for children with learning/ behavior problems and chemically sensitive adults. Focus, Inc. 28080 US Highway 98, Suite F, Daphne (251) 517-9025; www.focus-md.com Focus is a medical practice for kids and young people with AD/HD and related problems. Dr. James Wiley started FOCUS so that he would have more time to devote to the diagnosis and treatment of these patients. Focus provides objective testing, medical treatment as well as behavior modification strategies.
Hosted by: When: Time: Where:
BAYSHORE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Tuesday, September 30th, 2014 6:00 PM Bayshore Christian School | 23050 US Highway 98 | Fairhope, Alabama
belhaven university boyce college faulkner university
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judson college pensacola christian college liberty university university of mobile mississippi college william carey university new st. andrews college
Bayshore Christian School | 23050 US Highway 98| Fairhope, Alabama | (251) 929-0011
www.bayshorechristian.org
Autism
Autism Society of Alabama
(251) 259-5553, (877) 4AUTISM www.autism-alabama.org Our mission is to improve services for persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families through education and advocacy. Our current programs and services include, but are not limited to the following: toll free information and referral hotline, resource directory -a preliminary directory of service providers, activities, disability organizations, etc., education (parents, providers, family members, etc.) through our quarterly newsletter, exhibitions, speaking engagements, etc., parent Networking Groups in approximately 20 counties around the state, innovative website has a direct link to our e-mail addresses, an-
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nual Alabama Autism conference for parents, doctors, teachers, service providers, and students, and collaboration efforts with other state agencies to provide services for persons with autism spectrum disorders.
Dr. Renee Lopez
401 North Section St, Fairhope (251) 928-5058; www.MaximizedLivingDrLopez.com Dr. Lopez is the co-developer of Autism Whispers, a national program certifying physicians in the prevention, treatment and recovery of Autism and other Neurodevelopmental disorders (including ADD/ADHD). The program is complete with the Autism Whispers Parent’s Guide, which includes biomedical interventions to evaluate and support neurological, immunologic and metabolic challenges children on the spectrum face. Where to start, what to expect, recipes and meal planning are just a few sections in the Parent’s Guide. Dr. Lopez’s second book is Brain Kids. Its core focus is on empowering parents to grow and develop a healthy brain in children during the following stages of growth and life: 3 month pre-conception, throughout pregnancy, infancy, early childhood and adolescence. Dr. Lopez is a DAN! Doctor and a Generation Rescue Doctor. She is committed to helping all children and their parents lead healthier, more integrated and purposed lives. For more information email kylelopez@ bellsouth.net or reneelopez@bellsouth.net. Alabama Autism & Asperger’s Statewide Info & Support Network www.alabamaautism.org We are uniting, making connections and sharing knowledge and support for all 67 counties in our state & the world. A hub for Autism related info, events, videos, & support.
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
Auties & Aspies of LA- Lower Alabama Community Support Group, Fairhope www.facebook.com/AutiesandAspiesofLA A community dedicated to support for and awareness of those on the Autism Spectrum and their families in lower Alabama. Our intention is to create a community for families in the lower Alabama area who have members on the spectrum. The goal is to be able to share information, support, inspiration, and prayers with other families who are living similar experiences. Visit and Like our page on Facebook for updates. Autism Alabama www.alex.state.al.us/autismAL An initiative of Special Education Services, Alabama Department of Education provides on-line training resources for parents and educational professionals on autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Autism Diagnostics Clinic - USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital Pediatric Developmental Medicine Center (PDMC) 1707 Center Street, Suite 201, Mobile (251) 415-8577; www.usahealthsystem.com/autismdiagnosis The USA Autism Diagnostic Clinic sees patients with referral from a physician or other medical/educational professional. The mission of this clinic is to improve the lives of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the greater Gulf Coast area through early identification and diagnosis, as well as to provide educational outreach to families, physicians, daycare centers, churches and other organizations who serve children in the community. Autism Spectrum Disorders include Autistic Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified
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(PDD-NOS). The USA Autism Diagnostic Clinic evaluates patients up to ten years of age. Services include: Medical Assessments-By Developmental-Behavioral Pediatricians to evaluate health-related conditions; Cognitive Evaluation-To determine current developmental level of functioning; Speech/Language Evaluation--To assess communication level; Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS)-To observe social skills and communication abilities during a play session; Genetics Evaluation-To obtain a detailed family history and pertinent genetic laboratory tests; Occupational Therapy Evaluation-To evaluate motor skills, sensory processing abilities, and self care skills; Assistance with Community Resources-Upon completion of the evaluation, the staff will assist the family in obtaining appropriate community services; Consultation-By affiliated specialists with expertise in autism-related conditions. Autism Society of America (800) 328-8476; www.autism-society.org Autism Society of America provides services in the areas of advocacy, education, awareness and research. Autism Speaks (888) 288-4762; www.autismspeaks.org Visit our website and click on the Resources Link. Then choose the state of Alabama for community information. At Autism Speaks, our goal is to change the future for all who struggle with autism spectrum disorders. We are dedicated to funding global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a possible cure for autism. We strive to raise public awareness about autism and its effects on individuals, families, and society: and we work to bring hope to all who deal with the hardships of
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this disorder. We are committed to raising the funds necessary to support these goals. Autism Speaks aims to bring the autism community together as one strong voice to urge the government and private sector to listen to our concerns and take action to address this urgent global health crisis. It is our firm belief that, working together, we will find the missing pieces of the puzzle. For more information email familyservices@ autismsspeaks.org. Our-Kids www.our-kids.org Devoted to Raising Special Kids with Special Needs. The Our-Kids list consist of over 700 people representing children of varying diagnosis; everything from indefinite developmental delays and sensory integration problems, to cerebral palsy, to rare genetic disorders. Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital Autism Center Seton Medical Office Park 5190 Bayou Boulevard, Building 2, Pensacola (850) 416-4933; www.sacred-heart.org/ childrenshospital/autismcenter At the Sacred Heart Autism Center, we offer a range of direct services for children on the autism spectrum, all with a family-centered approach to learning. Research shows when families are involved, children do better. Our services include: Direct, individualized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. ABA is a research-based, systematic method for improving socially significant skills and behaviors; Parent instruction and hands-on training; Social skills groups for various ages; Group training for families and professionals.
TACA (Talk About Curing Autism) (855) 726-7810, (949) 640-4401; www.tacanow.org Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) is a national nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to educating, empowering and supporting families affected by autism. For families who have just received the autism diagnosis, TACA aims to speed up the cycle time from the autism diagnosis to effective treatments. TACA helps to strengthen the autism community by connecting families and the professionals who can help them, allowing them to share stories and information to help improve the quality of life for people with autism.
CdLS
CdLS Foundation (Cornelia de Lange Syndrome) (800) 753-2357; www.cdlsusa.org The Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) Foundation is a family support organization that exists to ensure early and accurate diagnosis of CdLS, promote research into the causes and manifestations of the syndrome, and help people with a diagnosis of CdLS make informed decisions throughout their lives.
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy 4 My Child (800) 692-4453; www.cerebralpalsy.org Our Mission: to provide you with the most comprehensive resource and compassionate voice for all things related to caring for a child with cerebral palsy, and other neurological conditions. We strive,
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every day, to be your ultimate resource for everything Cerebral Palsy. We provide a comprehensive resource, including a website and call center that parents and caregivers of children with special needs can turn to for needed, non-legal help, information and resources. United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile 3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile (251) 479-4900; www.ucpmobile.org UCP of Mobile is dedicated to advancing the independence of people with disabilities. UCP offers a wide range of services for people of all ages, starting with one of our early intervention programs and continuing through adulthood with our supported employment program.
Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Mobile Chapter 205 Lambert Avenue, Suite B, Mobile (251) 436-0013; www.cff.org/Chapters/mobile The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is the world’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.
Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome Alabama (205) 988-0810; www.downsyndromealabama.org Down Syndrome Alabama’s mission is to promote awareness, acceptance and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome of all ages.
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Down Syndrome Society of Mobile County 10 Westminster Way, Mobile (251) 342-3122; www.dssmc.org Our mission is to provide enrichment through education, networking opportunities, advocacy, and emotional support for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the greater community.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama Office Park 3, 273 Azalea Rd #310, Mobile (251) 341-0170; www.epilepsyfoundationalabama.org The Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama has a mission to educate and support individuals with epilepsy and their families, to increase awareness in the general community and to facilitate prevention and management of epilepsy. This includes providing services and programs for people with epilepsy and their families; educating and increasing awareness about epilepsy; providing leadership in advocacy for epilepsy issues and collaborating with other community resources in support of the mission of the people with seizure disorders. Epilepsy Foundation (800) 332-1000; www.epilepsyfoundation.org The Epilepsy Foundation of America® is the national voluntary health agency dedicated solely to the welfare of the more than 2 million people with epilepsy in the U.S. and their families. The organization works to ensure that people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences; to improve how people with epilepsy are perceived, accepted and valued in society; and to promote research for a cure.
Muscular Dystrophy
Alabama Muscular Dystrophy Association (205) 823-8191; www.mdausa.org MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to finding treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education.
Sickle Cell
Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Mobile Chapter, Inc. (251) 432-0301; www.scdmobile.org The Sickle Cell Disease Association of America – Mobile Chapter, Inc. (SCDAA-MC) was founded in 1974. A volunteer Board of Directors governs a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. The mission of the Association is to “Empower clients and their families with knowledge, through quality comprehensive programs and services.” In carrying out this mission, the Association provides the following services to individuals throughout nine counties in southwest Alabama, including Mobile, Baldwin, Escambia, Choctaw, Conecuh, Clarke, Covington, Washington, and Monroe counties: For individuals with sickle cell disease: Case management services, Transportation to/from medical appointments, Medical and pharmacy assistance for those without insurance. We provide Career assistance, After School Tutorial Programs (ages 6-18), Summer Enrichment Programs, Client support groups and fun activities. For the general public we offer Sickle cell screenings, lab onsite, Genetic counseling for those who test positive for sickle cell trait, Educational seminars and certification program. All services are confidential and provided free of charge.
Spina Bifida
Spina Bifida Association of Alabama www.sbaofal.org; The mission of the SBA of AL is to promote the prevention of Spina Bifida and to enhance the lives of all affected.
Tourette Syndrome
National Tourette Syndrome Association (718) 224-2999; www.tsa-usa.org Our mission is to identify the cause of, find the cure for and control the effects of Tourette Syndrome. We offer resources and referrals to help people and their families cope with the problems that occur with TS. We raise public awareness and counter media stereotypes about TS. Our membership includes individuals, families, relatives, and medical and allied professionals working in the field.
Organizations for Parents
Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC) (866) 532-7660; www.alabamaparentcenter.com We believe that parents have the greatest impact on their children’s lives. APEC provides families with the training, information and support they need to help them ensure that their children become productive, well-educated citizens. FighterMom www.fightermom.org A program for any mom who not only cares for a child with a demanding disease or health condition, but who wants to get organized to defeat that condition by raising money, winning publicity, working with researchers, and making her case in Washington.
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Family Voices of Alabama (877) 771-3862; www.familyvoicesal.org Family Voices of Alabama (FV of AL) aims to achieve family-centered care for all children and youth with special health care needs and/or disabilities. Through our national network, we provide families tools to make informed decisions, advocate for improved public and private policies, build partnerships among professionals and families, and serve as a trusted resource on health care. Parent to Parent USA www.p2pusa.org Provide emotional and informational support to families of children who have special needs most notably by matching parents seeking support with an experienced, trained ‘Support Parent’.
ALABAMA RESOURCES Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network (256) 237-3683; www.alabamarespite.org Alabama Public Library ServiceAlabama Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (800) 392-5671; webmini.apls.state.al.us/apls_web/ apls/apls Alabama Special Education Services (334) 242-8114; www.alsde.edu ALL KIDS Insurance (888) 373-5437; www.adph.org/allkids Civitan International Research Center University of Alabama at Birmingham (800) 822-2472; www.circ.uab.edu Governor’s Office on Disabilities (888) 879-3582; www.good.alabama.gov
MAGAZINES/PUBLICATIONS ADDitude Magazine (888)762-8475; www.additudemag.com The magazine for living well with attention deficit and learning disabilities
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Attention Magazine (800) 233-4050; www.chadd.org Attention magazine provides science-based information and support for people affected by ADHD. A benefit of CHADD membership, the magazine is produced six times per year. Recognized for its excellence, Attention provides you with the latest resources, research, background, and context on issues surrounding ADHD. Exceptional Parent Magazine (800) 372-7368; www.eparent.com ep (Exceptional Parent) is a 42-year-old, awardwinning publishing and communications company. EP provides practical advice, emotional support and the most up-to-date educational information for families of children and adults with disabilities and special healthcare needs as well as to the physicians, allied health care professionals, and educational professionals who are involved in their care and development. Parenting Special Needs Magazine (772) 532-4423; parentingspecialneeds.org We at Parenting Special Needs, LLC, are making it our mission to provide parents of special needs children, of all ages and stages of life, both information and inspiration. Through Parenting Special Needs On Line Magazine, we’ve created a world that provides practical tips, shares life’s lessons, tackles the challenges and celebrates the joys, of one of life’s greatest gifts. ESP
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The Mysterious World of an
Individual Education Program by James D. Sears, Ed.D., J.D.
The mystery of an individual education program (IEP) has been solved. There isn’t one. In spite of how the technicalities of the IEP have increased and evolved since it was first included in the federal law for children who have disabilities in 1975, the concept has remained a very basic one—determine where the child is functioning today, predict the goals the child should be able to achieve within one year, and determine what teaching strategies and related services should be implemented to reach those goals based upon the child’s unique learning characteristics. The IEP’s function is one simply of accountability—were the child’s present levels of functioning properly evaluated, were reasonable levels of achievement predicted, and were appropriate services provided. If the concept is so straightforward, why have IEPs become the dread of parents and the bane of educators? Of course, the different aspects of an IEP, interpreted many different ways, add to the mystery. For example, when developing an IEP the law requires academic goals must be written to “general education content standards.” What seems to be a contradiction of that provision is the provision in another part of the same law that requires a school system to develop and implement procedures to ensure that all eligible children have an appropriate IEP based on the child’s unique needs. After all, if the child can meet general education standards, why would there have to be IEP goals for academic standards and why would the child be in special education classes? By emphasizing academic “standards” without taking into consideration the child’s functioning level, more important aspects of the child’s education may be ignored. The law specifically states that educational performance includes more than just academic achievement. Educational performance also includes social and emotional development, as well as communication skills. Making passing scores on tests and progressing from grade-to-grade are not Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
the final criteria for education teacher determining whether will collaborate with or not a child is elithe general education gible for services. teacher.” A service is During IEP team not “the student will meetings parents are receive instruction in often confronted with the general education present levels of acaclassroom or resource demic performance room.” A service is that are two or three not “the student will years behind grade receive specialized level. Yet, when instruction three times school personnel per week.” These are suggest measureable examples of the service annual goals, they delivery model, not often propose that the service itself. If the child will achieve those comments are at the same grade included in the serlevel as the classvice component of an mates who do not IEP, the parent should have a disability. In insist on knowing what effect, the child is exeducational strategy is pected to remediate going to be used. A the two or three year service, simply put, is deficits during the “what makes special same period of time education special.” An as the child is learnexample of a service to ing the new material be provided a child who at grade level. Com- Abby Sears, granddaughter demonstrates inapproPhoto by Beth Hontzas Photgraphy, Inc. mon sense seems to priate behaviors could have been absent at include applied behavthe time of these types of decisions. ior analysis therapy, including a modified The service component of the IEP is overcorrection procedure. what school personnel will do to remediate Finally, there has always been a deficiencies the child may have. Federal mystery as to whether or not an IEP is a law requires that services for children who legally binding contract. The answer to have disabilities be scientifically-based, i.e., that question is, yes and no (therein lies that the service is more than presenting the mystery). An IEP is not binding in rethe material to the child at a lower level gards to whether or not the child achieves and slower pace, or “I’ve been a teacher a particular goal. It is binding regarding for 20 years, and this is the way I’ve althe services the child receives. ways done it.” The service should address the unique needs and learning characteristics of the child who has a disability, as James “Jim” Sears has a career history of advocacy for persons with disabilities. Following earning his doctoral an individual. After all, it is an individual degree from the University of Florida with a major in special education, he has been a professor at the Univereducation plan. sity of Alabama, Springhill College, and the University of For parents, evaluating the quality South Alabama. After graduating from the University of Alabama Law School, he has concentrated his practice of the service to be provided their child on special education law. Sears is a frequent lecturer to numerous advocacy groups. He can be reached at should include considering what is not (251) 621-3485 or through the firm website, searsanda service. A service is not “the special searslaw.com. 76
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1. Know Yourself. Overestimating your abilities will
In my adult life, nothing has sapped my self-confidence like motherhood. Just when I think I’ve got it figured out, the kids grow and change in a new direction. And watching other moms only makes matters worse. I spend my days sucking up cereal with a hand-held vacuum while Supermom posts to-diefor pictures on Pinterest. Of course, it is perfectly normal to feel insecure at times. But self-doubt can create a vicious, downward spiral. To lift yourself up, you’ve got to tap in to your inner core of confidence. Here’s
cause you to crash and burn like an American-Idol wannabe, says Lynn Kennedy Baxter, B.S.N., M.A., a licensed marriage and family therapist in Colorado Springs, Colo. And underestimating your abilities may cause you to pass up chances to stretch your skills. “Get reality checks from people you trust to give you good, honest feedback,” says Baxter. You may be holding yourself back.
2. Get Passionate. Fuel your confidence by investing in your own interests. Take dance classes, start a blog, or finish your college degree. “When we’re passionate about something – about anything – we become more attractive to others, and more importantly, we become more attractive to ourselves,” says certified life coach and inspirista Jennifer Tuma-Young of Edison, NJ. Do what lights your fire. 3. Stop Comparing. “If you feel like your life is a seesaw, perhaps you’re depending on other people for your ups and downs,” says communication consultant Sam Horn, author of What’s Holding You Back? 30 Days to Having the Courage and Confidence to Do What You Want, Meet Whom You Want, and Go Where You Want. Comparing yourself to others generates feelings of inferiority or superiority, neither of which is helpful. Be accountable to your own wishes and values.
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Telling yourself “I can’t,” “I’ll never,” or “I always,” reinforces your flaws and shortcomings, says Baxter, and can create a self-fulfilling prophecy. “Either accept your inadequacies, or choose to develop the trait or skill you’d like to have.” Ask yourself, “What words of encouragement would I offer a friend in the same situation?” then say them to yourself. Optimistic self-talk inspires confidence.
5. Rest Up. “Research clearly demonstrates that even a few days of too-little sleep causes a part of the brain called the amygdala to go into overdrive with fear and anxiety,” says Baxter. Instead of responding to stress with worry and panicked preparation, take a warm bath then get to bed. You’ll be ready to move mountains in the morning. 6. Affirm Your Attributes. List your top ten qualities. “They can be serious – like ‘I’m a great listener’ – or
silly, like ‘I always call people back,’ ‘I read with my kids every night,’ or ‘My cookies sell out first at the bake sale,” says Tuma-Young. Celebrating your own unique, special skills makes you feel fabulous.
7. Coach Yourself. There will be times when you don’t live up to your own expectations, like when you scream at your 4-year-old for washing the dog with pricey salon shampoo. “The key to a more productive approach lies in these two little words: next time,” says Horn. Focusing on how you’ll act differently in the future frees you from shame and self-blame.
8. Speak Up. When you’re unhappy, you have three options: you can whine, you can wait, or you can take responsibility, says Horn. Be proactive rather than passive. Tell the PTA president “No” if you don’t want to be in charge of the silent auction this spring. Staying true to yourself minimizes feelings of burnout and resentment.
9. Make a Difference. Giving to others increases feelings of competence and connectedness. TumaYoung volunteers with Enchanted Makeovers, a non-profit organization that offers inside-out makeovers to women and children living in shelters. “It’s not about giving to the needy,” says Tuma-Young. “We’re all needy. When we help each other, we heal our own lives.”
10. Be Positive. It may seem like other people have easier lives, but that’s just an illusion. Pay attention to small victories, like making a homecooked meal that everyone in the family will eat. Celebrate improvement rather than focusing on perfection. And give yourself permission to feel disappointed when setbacks happen. Just don’t let them stop you from starting again. And again. ESP
Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist and mother of two. She is the author of Detachment Parenting.
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A Page in a Book The Journey: There and Back Again Every day is a journey for children. The travel to and from school, questing around the neighborhood, and journeys of the spirit and imagination are all opportunities for children to pursue adventure beyond the normal confines of home and hearth. And for most journeys, the final leg brings a traveler full circle; back to where they started. We return from our travels with a fuller appreciation for home, friends, family and all the things that we carry in our heart when we’re away. The following titles all embody the spirit of adventurous journeys, while carrying along the fondness for home that’s never far away.
Journey
by Aaron Becker (Candlewick) Faced with a distracted family and a yearning for adventure, a young girl picks up a red crayon and draws a door into another world. As she travels through the neutral and pastel colors of the alternate landscape, her vibrant red crayon creates the things she needs to venture forth. She draws a red boat that takes her to a kingdom of kind people who welcome her exploration of their world. She then draws a red balloon that wafts her among a not-so-kind army of the air. When she’s captured by the airmen, her red crayon is lost …along with her means to return home. But a flash of rich purple emerges and may solve her problems both at home and abroad. A brilliantly executed work of art and storytelling, “Journey” is a steampunk-styled flight of wordless fancy that children will revisit again and again.
Following Papa’s Song
by Gianna Marino (Viking/Penguin) In the seemingly endless ocean, Little Blue, a young blue whale, is preparing with his family for his first migration. But he’s worried about being separated from his father on the journey. Traveling thousands of miles through the deep sea, a blue whale’s home is vast and moveable. Home is where his family is. His father assures him that if he will listen, Little Blue can hear Papa’s whale song and find him should he become lost. When Little Blue is distracted on the journey and becomes lost in the deep, he will need all his listening skill to hear the song of home. Lush edge-to-edge illustrations submerge the reader in all the hues of the deep oceans as they plumb the depths with father and son. ‘Following Papa’s Song’ is a moving and beautiful reminder of the call of home that resonates through every journey.
Three Bears in a Boat
by David Soman (Dial/Penguin) When three bears (playing where they shouldn’t) break their mother’s favorite blue seashell, they immediately run to the beach to hide. And as they huddle in the shadow of their boat, the brothers decide to undertake a quest; to sail away to find a blue shell. They query other seafaring bears for clues as their journey carries them far afield, but their search yields no blue shell. As their odyssey lengthens, their tempers grow shorter and home seems farther away than ever. It takes the stirring of a great storm to reveal the welcome calms and turn their voyage homeward. Complete with a cheeky nod to ‘Moby Dick’, this title is a reassuring testament to treasures and safe welcome found at home.
Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.
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Family Calendar Ongoing
American Sport Art Museum and Archives Located on the campus of the United States Sports Academy in Daphne, dedicated to the preservation of sports history, art, and literature. Exhibits spotlight visiting artists on a rotating basis, as well as our permanent collection of prints, sculpture, original paintings, photographs and other arts media. Free admission. Hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 1 Academy Drive, Daphne. For more information call 251.626.3303 or visit www.asama. org. Big Brother / Big Sister Mentors Needed At-risk children at Summerdale School need volunteer Big Brother Big Sister mentors. “Bigs” have fun with a child one time a week, for one hour, on school grounds, during the school year by reading a story, working puzzles, playing catch, drawing, or just being a friend. Professional training and support are provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama YMCA, Inc. For more information or to volunteer, contact Polly at 251-344-0536 ext. 104. Eastern Shore Art Center A non-profit arts organization located in beautiful downtown Fairhope, the Art Center houses four galleries with exhibits that change monthly, as well as a gallery featuring member artists’ work for sale. Admission is free. 401 Oak Street, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928.2228 or visit www.eseartcenter.com. The Exploreum The Exploreum is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. For tickets or more information visit www.exploreum.com or call 251-208-6873. 65 Government Street, Mobile. Fairhope Museum of History The museum is full of artifacts from old Fairhope. You can see displays on Clay City, the Single Tax Association and the Civil War. You can also see personal belongings from some of Fairhope’s first families. The museum is located in downtown Fairhope at 24 North Section Street. The museum is open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, call 929-1474. Marietta Johnson Museum This museum was founded to preserve the oldest school building in Baldwin Country, which was founded in 1907 by famed educator Marietta Johnson. Known as one of the first progressive schools in the world, the museum includes historic letters, documents, and artifacts from the school’s heyday, as well as biographical information about Marietta Johnson. To learn more, visit www.mariettajohnson. org. Open Mondays-Fridays from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free. 440 Fairhope Ave. 990-8601. Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve The Weeks Bay Reserve has a free educational interpretive center and two boardwalks. The Interpretive Center houses a multitude of exhibits, habitat models, specimen collections and a diorama giving the visitor a better understanding about the value of estuaries, diversity of coastal wetlands, and a close-up look at living plants and animals of coastal Alabama. Admission is free. Hours are Monday – Saturday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. 11300 US Highway 98, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928-9792 or visit www.weeksbay.org.
Classes/Meetings
Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) Offering Adoptive Family Support Group Meetings in Baldwin County the 3rd Monday of each month. The meeting is held at Eastern Shore Church of Christ, 1209 Daphne Ave, in Daphne from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Parent, Youth/Teen group and childcare
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is available. Topic discussions by adoption professionals and ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information call 251-460-2727 or 1-800-489-1886 or www.childrensaid.org. APAC also offers free counseling services to adoptive families. Celebration MOPS Fairhope Celebration MOPS meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. at Celebration Church, 8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope. Childcare is provided and is included in the fees. There is an annual $23.95 MOPS International membership fee and $30 per semester. Call the church office for info at 251-928-0343 or like us on Facebook at Facebook. com/celebrationmopsfairhopeal. Daily Living Skills Group for parents with children on the Spectrum Held the second Tuesday of each month from 5:307:00 p.m. at The Family Center, 27365 Pollard Road, Daphne. Focus is on daily living needs of families and their children, such as: Safety issues; How to have a family dinner out; Ways to assist with transition; How to talk with people who stare; Your questions, comments and suggestions. Limited childcare slots are available. For more information, please contact Judy Bradshaw: (251) 990-7781. Daphne Neurological Disease Support Group (Includes Parkinson’s Disease, epilepsy). Meets second Monday of each month at Daphne United Methodist Church, 2401 Main Street, Daphne, in the Community Life Center-Gathering Room. 11:00 a.m. until noon. Noon light lunch for $3 from 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. Speaker or joint group session. Contact person: Alice Hallford - 251-6268228. Fairhope MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) We meet 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. every 2nd & 4th Monday at Fairhope United Methodist Church. All mothers of young children are welcome. Email fairhopemops@yahoo.com for more info. 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, near the YMCA. “M oms O ffering M oms S upport” (MOMS Club) is a group intended for stay at home moms to provide encouragement for each other while providing fun activities for their children. This club is open to anyone on the Eastern Shore area of Baldwin County, Alabama. We hold a meeting at the beginning of each month with a speaker or topic relevant to moms while childcare is provided. Each month there are social activates organized for the children such as play dates, field trips and seasonal parties. MOMS Club is also dedicated to giving back to the community through supporting various charities. MOMS Club is a great way to connect with other moms, form friendship and enjoy activities with your little ones. For more information please visit our website at www.momsclubofdaphne.com or email us at momsclubofdaphne@yahoo.com. MOPS on the Eastern Shore MOPS stands for “Mothers of Preschoolers” - but
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don’t let that confuse you. MOPS is about meeting the needs of every mom of a child from conception through kindergarten with local groups of moms just like you. 7100 Spanish Fort Blvd., Spanish Fort. 1st Thursday of the Month (September through May). Dinner & Child Care are provided. 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. http://www.mopsontheeasternshore.shutterfly.com/ Facebook.com/MopsOnTheEasternShore . Moonlight Chasse’ Ballroom Dance Society Dance lessons from 7 – 7:30 p.m., and Dancing from 7:30 – 10 p.m., first and third Monday of every month, at Fitzpen Place, 1 mile east of Eastern Shore Mall. No partner necessary. $10 per person includes dance lesson. $7 with membership, includes dance lesson. Live music, cash bar. www.FitzpenPlace. com. www.Moonlightchasse.com. For more information, call 251-621-6665 or 251-377-4069. PUMC Caregiver Support Group A new support group for caregivers of aging parents and others is discussing “boundaries” at monthly meetings open to the community. The public is invited to be a part of this support group, which meets monthly at Providence UMC, located between Spanish Fort High School and Middle School at 32200 Jimmy Faulkner Dr. For more information about the new support group, call the church office at (251) 626-2510 or email pumc.office@bellsouth.net. For more information about Providence UMC, call the church office or visit the website at www.providencemethodist.org. Shepherd’s Place (Christian Life Center) Ministry for memory & physically challenged. Mondays & Wednesdays 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 South Section Street, Fairhope. 928-1148. Single Mom Ministry Sponsored by Fairhope Avenue Baptist Church, this prayer and support group for single moms is designed to provide a safe and prayerful environment where group members are able to express themselves among others who will listen, care, and lift each other up. Each participant will receive one bag of non-perishable food items each week. Child care will be provided. Light snacks and soft drinks will be served. Meetings are held every Tuesday from 6-7 PM at Fairhope Avenue Baptist Family Life Center, 8717 Fairhope Ave. 251-9280890. Tango by the Bay ~ Argentine Basic classes are held every Tuesday from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. in Fairhope at Southern Edge Dance Studio, located behind Pizza Hut across from Thomas Hospital. 251 South Greeno, Fairhope. $5 per class (fee may be higher with special guest instructors). For more information Contact Ben Samel at 605-2657 or Cassie Fishbein 377-4069, cassief13@aol.com. South Baldwin Regional Medical Center offers the following classes: Your entire family can take part in several informative 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. Cost: $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.
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Family Calendar Week 2: Delivery and Cesarean Birth: A review of complications that may arise, use of special equipment, complete the stages of labor, cesarean delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 3: New Born and Postpartum Care: Newborn appearance, caring for the newborn, infant safety, recognizing complications, relaxation exercises, and choosing a pediatrician. What to expect after delivery, understanding the physical and emotional changes to your body, and relaxation exercises. Week 4: The Art of Breast Feeding: The benefits of breast feeding for mother and baby, anatomy and physiology of the breast, how to breastfeed, and common difficulties. One session. • Tiny Toes members may enroll in Yoga, Water Aerobics and Expectant Mother Exercise classes through the Snook Family YMCA. The fee is $5 a class. There is a $3 fee for child care. There is no fee if you are already a member of the YMCA. All classes are located at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center–1613 North McKenzie Street Foley. Tuesday evenings 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Classroom A. Located just off of the main lobby. • Please plan to attend the Healthy Pregnancy Class during your first trimester and the Prepared Childbirth Classes anytime after your 24th week of pregnancy. For more information or to enroll please call the OB Educator at 949-3676 to schedule. We look forward to sharing this special time with you! Method of payment accepted: Visa, Master Card, Discover, AmEx, Debit Card. Gift of Life The Gift of Life is a required maternity care program for Medicaid patients or Medicaid-eligible patients. The Gift of Life Program provides a caring system of prenatal services; education and care coordination for expectant moms and their babies. For additional information please contact 949-3781.
Thomas Hospital offers the following classes: Breastfeeding Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Monthly, first Tuesday, 6 - 8 p.m. Free. Infant CPR and Safety Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Pre-registration required. To register call 279-1373. Saturdays, 4 - 6 p.m. Moving Through Labor Childbirth Classes Three or four-week prepared childbirth class series which prepares the mother-to-be and her support partner for the labor and delivery experience. $30 fee for the class series. Thomas Fitness Center, (Fairhope) Mondays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope) Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Tuesdays, 6-8:30 p.m. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Pre-registration required. Call 251- 279-1373 or visit www.thomashospital.com for upcoming classes and registration. Natural Childbirth Classes, Fertility Awareness, Mother’s Comfort, Exercise and Nutrition For class schedule or more information call Geralyn Piizzotti, 251- 928-9396. Yourbodyyourbirth@bellsouth. net. Newborn Basics Class Held on the second Monday of every month from 6 – 8 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Free. No Pre-registration required. Pre-admission Sessions 6 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Pre-registration required. Sibling Class Thomas Hospital Fitness Center (Fairhope). Pre-registration required. To register call 279-1373. 10 - 11 a.m. Thomas Hospital offers the following support groups for the community: Alanon (Alcoholics Anonymous)
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Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 800-477-1104 for more information. Alateen Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room East Tower meeting room at Thomas Hospital. Call 391-1152 for more information. Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 345-7645 or 438-9590 for more information. ALS Support Group Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month from 11 a.m. to noon at Thomas Medical Center. Call 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-Family Connected by Ribbons Support group for cancer survivors, friends and family. Open to any types of cancer. Every first Thursday of every month from 6 - 8 p.m. Morphy Conference Room (Old ER entrance) at Thomas Hospital, Fairhope. Preregistration not required. Call 209-1229 for more information. Cancer Support Group for Women Meetings are held the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room. For more information, call Patti Huval at 209-1229. Diabetes Support Group Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Diabetes Center. Call 279-1700 for more information. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Support Group Meetings are held every Thursday night from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 251- 9656264 for more information. Parkinson’s Support Group Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month from noon to 1 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251- 455-9919 for more information. Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Support Group Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251626-6337 for more information.
Tuesday, September 2
Fairhope Museum of History Hosting “Tea for Two” Each Tuesday afternoon at 2 p.m., the Museum (24 N. Section St., Fairhope) hosts a ‘tea’ where guests enjoy a cup of delicious Baldwin County tea, cookies and a lecture on an interesting aspect of Fairhope history. These very popular afternoon events are sponsored by the Friends of the Museum group. The schedule for September is as follows: September 2 Curt Cochran will be the speaker; September 9 Gigi Hackford, part owner and manager of Fairhope Artist Gallery, specializes in American flag patriotic art; September 16, Pam Jones, current Principal at Marietta Johnson School of Organic Education, will come and tell us about the latest projects and activities at the school; September 23, Rochelle McKee, lifelong Fairhope resident will speak on her life in Fairhope; September 30, Taney Brazeal, former manager of Schermer Pecan Company, who later managed his own business, Gulf Farms, buying the Schermer business. The Fairhope Museum of History invites everyone to attend for colorful, interesting and entertaining afternoons at the museum. For more information on the upcoming “Tea for Two” programs, call the Fairhope Museum of History at (251) 929-1471.
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5 Rivers StoryTime “Three Little Gators” by Helen Ketteman The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers, from 10 - 11 a.m. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. This week, a retelling of an old favorite, substituting three little gators and a big bottomed boar rather than the traditional pigs and wolves! Located at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. For more information call 251-625.0814 or visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com. 5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night Free, everyone is welcome. Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. 6-7 p.m. Alabama Hiking Trail Society. 7-8:30 p.m. Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club. 7-8:30 p.m.Mobile Bay Sierra Club. Located at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. For more information call 251625.0814 or visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com.
Wednesday, September 3 Team Warriors 4EVER The Orange Beach TeamWarriors4EVER team has partnered with Tacky Jack’s, a local restaurant, where we will be staging a run every Wednesday. TeamWarriors4EVER is a non-profit organization aimed at raising money and awareness for wounded and/or fallen veterans and their families while promoting activity thru team and individual sports. Time is 6:30 PM. For more information, visit www. teamwarriors4ever.com.
Thursday, September 4
16th Annual Chefs Challenge Join Bay Area Food Bank as they kick off Hunger Action Month with the 16th Annual Chef Challenge – A Challenge to End Hunger from 6-9 p.m. at the Alabama Cruise Terminal. Guests will enjoy cuisine from some of our area’s most celebrated chefs, live music from Roman Street, and a vast silent auction. Admission is $50 per person in advance and $60 per person the day of the event. Ticket information is available online www.bayareafoodbank.org or by contacting Stephanie Snyder at (251) 653-1617 ext. 141. All proceeds from Chef Challenge will be used by the food bank to continue distributing food to those in need throughout the Central Gulf Coast. Habitat for Humanity of Baldwin County Presents Artfully Sweet Artfully Sweet, an exquisite evening of Decadent Desserts & Re-purposed Art with a hint of Vino & Stout at Oak Hollow Farms (14210 Greeno Road, Fairhope) from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase at our ReStore for $25 per person. Please join us for this wonderful evening! Please call (251) 943-7268 for more information. MOMS Club of Daphne, Popsicles at the Fountains Join us for popsicles and fun at the Eastern Shore Centre Fountains from 10 a.m. - 12 noon. Come meet us and learn about the events and activities we enjoy as a group. We are a club aimed at supporting stay at home moms with kids from birth to elementary school. For more information visit our website at www. momsclubofdaphne.webs.com.
Friday, September 5
First Friday ArtWalk On the first Friday of every month the Art Center welcomes 400 plus visitors, free of charge, for the exhibit openings. Visitors are treated to refreshments made possible by generous local business sponsors. Artwalk is held from 6-8 p.m. and begins at the Eastern Shore Art Center. For more information call (251) 928-2228.
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92 ZEW Brown Bag Lunch Come enjoy lunch every Friday for 9 Weeks at the Windmill Market in Fairhope, from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
member of our human educational staff and meet one of the local critter inhabitants from the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and beyond. Located at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. For more information call 251-625.0814 or visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com. 5 Rivers Sunday Matinee, “More Than Honey” Come out and join us every Sunday for a free family friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week’s movie examines the disappearance of honeybee populations worldwide. Located at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. For more information call 251-625.0814 or visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com.
Saturday, September 6
2014 Brett Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon The Triathlon begins early Saturday morning with a 1.5k swim in the Gulf of Mexico, a 40k bike ride through the state park and finishes with a 10k scenic run. The”Tri-it-on” Triathlon begins with a 300 yard swim a 9 mile bike ride and a 2 mile run. Join us for the awards ceremony and post race party at The Hangout. For more information, please call (251) 9483030 or visit www.team-magic.com. The Fab Four – Ultimate Tribute AEG Live & Huka Entertainment present The Fab Four (Tribute To The Beatles) at the Saenger Theatre (6 South Joachim St, Mobile). If you want to experience the best Beatles tribute ever, you won’t want to miss The Fab Four-The Ultimate Tribute. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., Show starts at 8:30 p.m. Please visit www. mobilesaenger.com for more information. SFEEF is hosting “Study Secrets to Great Success” A 4-hour seminar that teaches students good study habits, time management, test taking strategies, goal setting, & reading comprehension. This seminar will be held 1-5 p.m., in the library at Spanish Fort High School. Open to grades 8-12. The cost is $50 per student. Snacks will be provided. Please visit our website, sfeef.com for more information.
Sunday, September 7
Tuesday, September 9
Fairhope Museum of History Hosts “Tea for Two” See September 2 for more information. 5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night Free, everyone is welcome. Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. 6-7 p.m. Alabama Hiking Trail Society; 7-8:30 p.m. Mobile Bay Audubon Society. Located at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. For more information call 251-625.0814 or visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com.
Wednesday, September 10 Team Warriors 4EVER See September 3 for more information.
Thursday, September 11
5 Rivers Animal Ambassadors Meet and Greet 2-2:30 p.m. Free. Alabama has one of the highest MBPand Howell ad 6/26/14 2:51 PMJoinPage plant animal diversities in the United States. a
10th Annual L.A. Songwriters’ Festival Original songwriters from the Eastern Shore, Lower Alabama, Nashville and beyond are participating in this 1 exciting three-day event at the American Legion (700
S. Mobile St., Fairhope) on beautiful Mobile Bay. Vendor exhibits, festival activities, food and other events throughout. Please visit www. lasongwritersfestival. com for more information. Tedeschi Trucks Band – Saenger Tedeschi Trucks Band concert at the Saenger (6 South Joachim St.) at 8 p.m. Please visit www.mobilesaenger. com for more information.
Friday, September 12
South Baldwin Theatre presents “And Then There Were None” Widely considered Agatha Christie’s masterpiece and described by her as the most difficult of her books to write, “Ten Little Indians” is the story of ten guilty strangers trapped on an island. One by one, they are accused of murder and, one by one, they start to die! South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street, Gulf Shores. Show dates: September 12, 13, 19 & 20 at 7:30 p.m. September 14 & 21 (Sunday) at 2:00 p.m. Visit www.sbct.biz for more information. 21st Annual National Shrimp Festival Golf Tournament for Education Held at Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club, Gulf Shores, AL. Please contact Ann VonEberstein & Lauren Turner (251) 968-6091 for more information. 10th Annual L.A. Songwriters’ Festival See September 11 for more information. 92 ZEW Brown Bag Lunch See September 5 for more information.
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Family Calendar
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Saturday, September 13 Wednesday, September 17 Opening Night: Mobile Symphony There is no better way to open our 14-15 season than with “An American in Paris” by the incomparable George Gershwin, and Tchaikovsky’s “Violin Concerto” performed by rising superstar Benjamin Beilman. Rounding out this exciting first concert of the season is de Falla’s brilliant and colorful orchestral suite, “The Three Cornered Hat”. 8 p.m. on Saturday and 2:30 on Sunday at the Mobile Saenger Theatre (6 Joachim Street). Please visit www.mobilesymphony.org for more information. 10th Annual L.A. Songwriters’ Festival See September 11 for more information. South Baldwin Theatre presents “And Then There Were None” See September 12 for more information.
Sunday, September 14
United Way of Baldwin County Annual Kick-Off Luncheon The United Way of Baldwin County Annual Kick-Off Luncheon will be held at the Daphne Civic Center from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cost - $25. For more information, please call (251) 943-2110 or email info@unitedway-bc.org. 5 Rivers Growing Up Wild: Raptors Join us at 5 Rivers Delta (30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort) from 1-2 p.m. for 5 Rivers Growing Up Wild. Please call (251) 625-0814 or Shonda.Borden@DCNR.Alabama.gov for more information. Opening Night: Mobile Symphony See September 13 for more information. South Baldwin Theatre presents “And Then There Were None” See September 12 for more information. 5 Rivers Growing Up Wild, “Raptors” 1-2:30 p.m. Kindergarten-Grade 2, Registration Required, Free. Learn about our feathered friends that hunt with razor-sharp talons and hooked beaks. Call 625-0814 to register. Located at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. For more information call 251-625.0814 or visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com. 5 Rivers Sunday Matinee, “Life of Birds: Meat Eaters” Come out and join us every Sunday for a free family friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week, from the meat-eating Kea parrot of New Zealand, to African eagles that prey on monkeys and flamingos, see the strategies that some birds use to find and catch their prey including tracking by ultraviolet vision! Located at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. For more information call 251-625.0814 or visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com.
Tuesday, September 16
Fairhope Museum of History Hosts “Tea for Two” See September 2 for more information. 5 Rivers StoryTime “Wow! Said the Owl” by Tim Hopgood 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. This week, follow a curious little owl determined to see what the world looks like during the day. Located at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. For more information call 251-625.0814 or visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com.
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Team Warriors 4EVER See September 3 for more information.
Thursday, September 18
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – Ronald McDonald House Fundraiser Wind Creek Casino presents Girls Just Wanna Have Fun benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile from 5:30 – 9:00 p.m. at the Alabama Cruise Terminal. 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, McTinis and an unforgettable evening of manicures, make-overs, shopping, entertainment and more. To purchase tickets, please visit www.rmhcmobile.org or call (251) 694-6873. Ship Shape for School : Planning for a Great School Year Workshop for parents of dyslexic students, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Read-Write’s Daphne Office, 1048 Stanton Road Suite G. Cost $10. Register at www.dyslexiaspecialist. net. Parents will learn concrete strategies for partnering with their child’s school and teachers.
Friday, September 19
Black Jacket Symphony presents Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours” The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience through the recreation of classic albums as a live performance. A selected album is performed in its entirety, by a group of hand-picked musicians, specifically selected for each album. This show takes place at the Saenger Theatre (6 South Joachim St., Mobile) at 8:00 p.m. Please visit www.mobilesaenger. com for more information. Friday Art Walk – Foley On the 3rd Friday of every month Downtown Foley businesses host an open house evening starting at around 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. or later. Enjoy exhibits from local artist, special events and longer hours. If you are interested in exhibiting your art/craft or being a vendor, please connect with a participating business or connect with us on Facebook. This month the Performing Arts Center (foleyartcenter.com) will be raffling a live flower centerpiece created by McKenzie Street Florists—Free. Downtown Foley. Please visit www.visitfoley.org for more information. 3rd Annual Golf Scramble benefiting All About Dogs Coastal Rescue Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. Lunch is served 10:30 a.m. - Noon. Shotgun start begins at Noon. 18 hole, four player scramble. $100 per player ($400 per team) Includes green fee, cart, range balls, lunch and prizes! Hole N One prizes include: $10,000 Cash, a set of Callaway Irons, Sharp LCD Screen TV, Round trip domestic airfare for two. Awards and Prizes immediately after golf. Craft Farms Golf Resort Gulf Shores. Please visit www.allaboutdogscr.com for more information. 92 ZEW Brown Bag Lunch See September 5 for more information. South Baldwin Theatre presents “And Then There Were None” See September 12 for more information.
Saturday, September 20 Sesame Street Live, Make A New Friend Come join us at the Mobile Civic Center for Sesame Street Live, Make a Friend at 10:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Please visit www.mobilecivicctr.com for more information.
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27th Annual Coastal Cleanup 8 a.m. - noon. Show your support and concern for Alabama’s waterways by participating in the 27th Annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup. You or your organization can make a difference by volunteering to clean up our cherished coastal area. Please visit www.alabamacoastalcleanup.com for more information. Jubilee Race for Life 5K Race & 1-Mile Fun Run Race for life benefits Bayside Medical Missions which provides surgeries for persons of limited resources. Start, finish, and race activities at 1515 6th Street, Daphne - Daphne Baptist Church. Register by mail (entries should be postmarked by September 13), in person at McCoy Outdoor or Run-N-Tri in Mobile or Running Wild in Fairhope until noon on Thursday, September 18, or online (http://jubileeraceforlife. eventbrite.com) until 4 AM, Friday, September 19. Packet pick-up and late registration at Daphne Baptist Church from 6:30 a.m. - 7:45 a.m. Walk to End Alzheimer’s Wear your purple and help raise awareness at the inaugural Eastern Shore Walk to End Alzheimer’s. This promises to be an anticipated annual event for the entire family. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m., the opening ceremony is at 8:45 a.m. and the walk will start at 9 a.m. Walk starts at the Fairhope Pier 3 Beach Rd, Fairhope. Please visit http://act.alz.org/ site/PageServer?pagename=walk_homepage for more information. Antique Tractor Parade – Robertsdale The schedule of events and attractions for the Annual Baldwin County Fair begins with a parade in downtown Robertsdale (Highway 59) at 10:00 a.m. The South Alabama Antique Tractor and Engine Club organized this event, parading restored farm tractors to the delight of the owners and their audiences as well. Please visit baldwincofair.com/Home.aspx for more information. Market Days at the Chamber – Bay Minette Join us from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. at 301 McMeans Avenue, Bay Minette for produce, antiques, handmade items, yard sale, arts & crafts, kid’s activities, live music, lunch plates and more. Please call (251) 937-5665 for more information. South Baldwin Theatre presents “And Then There Were None” See September 12 for more information.
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Sunday, September 21
South Baldwin Theatre presents “And Then There Were None” See September 12 for more information. 5 Rivers Animal Ambassadors Meet and Greet 2-2:30 p.m. Free. 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. Located at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. For more information call 251-625.0814 or visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com. 5 Rivers Sunday Matinee, “Last Call at the Oasis” Come out and join us every Sunday for a free family friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week, explore the global water crisis, examining deficiencies in the supply service as well as communities affected by water shortages. Located at
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Family Calendar 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. For more information call 251-625.0814 or visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com.
Tuesday, September 23 Baldwin County Fair Join us from September 23-September 27 for the Baldwin County Fair at 19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale. Fair Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 4 to 11 p.m., Friday 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. and Saturday 1 p.m. to 12:00 midnight. Please visit baldwincofair.com/Home.aspx for more information and for a schedule of events. Vintage Inspiration: The Brides of Downton Abbey The Bragg-Mitchell Mansion will host an exciting fundraiser featuring Cornelia Powell, nationally known author. Please join Ms. Powell for an entertaining look at behind-the-scenes stories and images of the wildly popular PBS series “Downton Abbey” as well as hearing intriguing bits of fashion history, tiara legends, wedding folklore, and much more! We will have a morning coffee and afternoon tea. Admission will be charged for this wonderful fundraiser and seating is limited. Admission includes Ms. Powell’s excellent presentation, a tour of the mansion, refreshments and food, shopping in our gift shop, and a book signing opportunity with Cornelia Powell! Bragg-Mitchell Mansion – 1906 Springhill Avenue, Mobile. For more information, please visit www. braggmitchellmansion.com. Fairhope Museum of History Hosts “Tea for Two” See September 2 for more information.
September2014
Wednesday, September 24 Friday, September 26 Team Warriors 4EVER See September 3 for more information. Baldwin County Fair See September 23 for more information.
Thursday, September 25
Fairhope Fall Outdoor Farmer’s Market Thursday Afternoons from September 25 – November 6, and Open 3:00 p.m. until sundown behind the Public Library on Bancroft Street. The market will feature local farmers, bakers, fresh produce, fresh cut flowers, local honey, plants, baked goods and more! The Fairhope Public Library will hold story times and children’s activities at 4 p.m. each Thursday at the market. The Wharf Uncorked Wine & Culinary Event The Wharf Uncorked Wine & Culinary Event presented by Mercedes-Benz of Mobile will be Sept. 25-27. The three-day event will combine delicious food, tantalizing wines, live entertainment with a pinch of southern flair and a dash of Gulf Coast hospitality. Numerous wine and culinary events during the event offer opportunities for foodies, wine connoisseurs and those who want to learn more about wine and culinary arts. Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster and at The Wharf Box Office. A limited number of tickets will be available. Visit The Wharf Uncorked Wine & Culinary event on Facebook for a current list of events, menus, wine distributors and more event information. Baldwin County Fair See September 23 for more information.
Black-Out Cancer Ball The Black-Out Cancer Ball, formerly Baldwin County Gala, is one of the most exciting fundraising events in Baldwin County. The evening is packed with dancing, entertainment, an honoree presentation, dining, auctions and everyone wears BLACK! The event will offer elegant surroundings, scrumptious foods, fragrant wines, and a night of revelry and merrymaking. The American Cancer Society will continue to save lives and create more birthdays by helping people to stay well and get well, find cures, and fight back against a disease that has taken too many lives. Location: Fairhope Civic Center (161 N Section Street, Fairhope) from 6 p.m. - 11 p.m. Visit www.blackoutcancerball.org for more information. Baldwin County Fair See September 23 for more information. The Wharf Uncorked Wine & Culinary Event See September 25 for more information. 92 ZEW Brown Bag Lunch See September 5 for more information.
Saturday, September 27
26th Annual Jubilee Festival Join us for the 26th Annual Jubilee Festival. The Jubilee Festival is an Eastern Shore tradition that offers fine art, crafts, great entertainment and great food in Olde Towne Daphne. A large screen TV will be set up in the
KID ROCK • ALABAMA • JANE’S ADDICTION • BRANTLEY GILBERT • EARTH, WIND AND FIRE CEELO GREEN • STONE TEMPLE PILOTS WITH CHESTER BENNINGTON • FOSTER THE PEOPLE LUDACRIS • THOMPSON SQUARE • JOAN JETT AND THE BLACKHEARTS • K MICHELLE • AFI AMOS LEE • BONE THUGS-N-HARMONY • BLACKBERRY SMOKE • TROMBONE SHORTY AND ORLEANS AVENUE MAGIC! • POP EVIL ALL THAT REMAINS • FRANKIE BALLARD • DENNIS NELSON • JOE TAYLOR GROUP • KRISTY LEE STARTISAN • SHAWNA P • K-ROB • GRETSCH LYLES & THE MODERN ELDORADOS • THE MULLIGAN BROTHERS • ROXY ROCA STONY MURPHY & THE ONE ACCORD SHOW • WORX • CATHERCIST • THE BEN JERNIGAN BAND • BOUKOU GROOVE • TRAVIS CLARK JAMELL RICHARDSON • 2 MAJOR TWINZ • DEREK NORSWORTHY • SLOW MOTION CELEBRITY • BABY BEE • DARK BEFORE DAWN
AND MANY, MANY MORE!
october 3 - 5 To purchase tickets, sign up for alerts or for more information visit
www.bayfest.com
A LIMITED NUMBER OF TICKETS WILL BE SOLD.
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City Council Chambers for the football fans to watch their favorite teams play. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. Please call (251) 621-8222 for more information. MDA Muscle Walk Join us for the South Alabama MDA Coast Muscle Walk from 8 - 11 a.m. at Hank Aaron Stadium. MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. Participate as an individual or organize a team and “Make a Muscle, Make a Difference” for MDA families in your area! Please visit walk.mda.org for more information. Delta Dash 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 race will begin and end at Lower Bryants Landing in Stockton AL. Proceeds will benefit the North Baldwin Young Professionals Scholarship Fund and the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce. Please visit deltadash.org for more information. Baldwin County Fair See September 23 for more information. The Wharf Uncorked Wine & Culinary Event See September 25 for more information.
AUDITIONS Fri. Sept 12 Ages 8-11 4 pm to 5:15 pm Ages 12 & Up 5:15 pm to 6:30 pm
Sunday, September 28
26th Annual Jubilee Festival See September 27 for more information. 5 Rivers Sunday Matinee, “The Inexplicable Universe with Neil DeGrasse Tyson” Come out and join us every Sunday for a free family friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week, host Tyson reveals how cutting edge technology enables modern scientists to explore the wonders of the universe as never before. Located at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. For more information call 251-625.0814 or visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com.
251 Greeno Rd S, Fairhope, AL 36532 251-620-8902
Tuesday, September 30
Fairhope Museum of History Hosts “Tea for Two” See September 2 for more information.
www.southernedgedancecenter.com
Looking Forward...
Wednesday, October 1. Team Warriors 4EVER See September 3 for more information. Thursday, October 2. 11th Annual Alabama Coastal Birdfest Join us for the 11th Annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest on October 2–4. Alabama Coastal BirdFest is going strong as it enters its second decade! This year’s event includes expertly guided, fun trips on foot and by boat to favorite birding spots along the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail, with several new trips, including two sunset cruises (one in the Delta, one on Weeks Bay), and a Northbound Adventure Cruise that can taken by itself of combined with the popular Bottle Creek Indian Mounds Adventure. Please visit www. alabamacoastalbirdfest.com for more information. Fairhope Fall Outdoor Farmer’s Market See September 25 for more information. Friday, October 3. First Friday ArtWalk On the first Friday of every month the Art Center welcomes 400 plus visitors, free of charge, for the exhibit openings. Visitors are treated to refreshments made possible by generous local business sponsors.
We will teach your child to be stronger, “bully-proof”, more confident, & better prepared ED T I UNATES to face the challenges of life! T
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Classes start at $89/mo. DAPHNE 621-9933 89
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Family Calendar
September2014
Artwalk is held from 6 to 8 p.m. and begins at the downtown Fairhope, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The Eastern Shore Art Center. For more information call show features more than 70 local, regional, national (251) 928-2228. and international artists with more than 20,000 Friday, visitors expected. Visitors will find woodworking, October 3. blown glass, painting, ceramics, jewelry, sculpture, 20th Annual photography and even children’s activities! It is Bayfest a part of a fun-filled weekend known as “Fall Into Music Fairhope” that includes the First Friday Art Walk, Festival Grand Festival of Books, Alabama Coastal BirdFest, BayFest will Mullet Run and Baldwin Pops Founder’s Day celebrate Concert. its 20th Saturday, October 4. Mullet Run for Bay Art anniversary The 5K and 10K benefit youth public art. Race on October starts at 8:30am on Bancroft Street. Please visit 3-5, with an expected crowd of more than 200,000 www.thebayartproject.org/mullet-run.html for more WITH guests, who will make merry in the streets of information. Downtown Mobile and experience continues Saturday, October 4. Marsh Madness Fishing music throughout the festival weekend. BayFest Tournament -N-HARMONY •offers BLACKBERRY SMOKE • TROMBONE AVENUE continuous music for every taste, including SHORTY TheAND MarshORLEANS Madness Fishing Tournament is a country, classic rock, alternative, pop, jazz, R&B, fundraising event for the Spanish Fort Education AT REMAINS • FRANKIE BALLARD • DENNIS NELSON • JOE TAYLOR GROUP • KRISTY LEE rap, gospel, modern rock and more. One of the Enrichment Foundation. Anglers will be fishing for OB • GRETSCH LYLES & THEstages, MODERN ELDORADOS THE MULLIGAN BROTHERS • ROXY ROCA festival’s the Launching Pad, is• specifically 3 species: Flounder, Speckled Trout, & Red Fish designed to spotlight localBEN andJERNIGAN regional talent and• BOUKOU with prizes awarded for each category, as well as CORD SHOW • WORX • CATHERCIST • THE BAND GROOVE • TRAVIS CLARK showcase acts who aspire for musical greatness. 3 Fish Creel & Optional team. Calcutta are also JOR TWINZ • DEREK NORSWORTHY • SLOW MOTION CELEBRITY • BABYaincluded. BEE • DARK BEFORE DAWN The event also includes a family activity area that Fishing starts at 5 a.m., weigh-in 1-4 has garnered rave reviews - For more information, p.m. After party includes: Food, fun, & football. please visit www.bayfest.com. Captain’s meeting will take place at Laps Grocery & Friday, October 3. 11th Annual Alabama Grill on Friday night October 3 from 7-11 p.m. All Coastal Birdfest net proceeds benefit the 4 Spanish Fort schools. See October 2 for more information. For additional information regarding participation or Friday, October 3. 92 ZEW Brown Bag Lunch sponsorship, please visit our website at: sfeef.com See September 5 for more information. or contact Sandy Cooke @ director@sfeef.com. Saturday, October 4. 32nd Annual Grand Saturday, October 4. South Bay Communities Festival of Art Alliance Swamp Fest purchase tickets, sign up for alerts or for more information visit 32nd Annual Grand Festival of Art takes place There will be live entertainment, remote control Saturday, October 4th and Sunday, October 5th in racing for the kids, Arts & Crafts and hayrides.
A • JANE’S ADDICTION • BRANTLEY GILBERT • EARTH, WIND AND FIRE CHESTER BENNINGTON • FOSTER THE PEOPLE E TEMPLE PILOTS N SQUARE • JOAN JETT AND THE BLACKHEARTS • K MICHELLE • AFI
AND MANY, MANY MORE!
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Cruise on in and be a part of the Motorcycle and Classic Car Shows. Go spoon to spatula for the best Gumbo Title in the Swampfest Gumbo Cook Off. BBQ Plates and hotdogs for the kids. Starts at 10 a.m. Please visit www.bayoulabatreareachamber.org for more information. Saturday, October 4. 26th Annual Taste of the Bayou Dozens of chefs from around the Gulf Coast will meet at the Bayou La Batre Community Center (12745 Padgett Switch Road, Irvington) to face off for a year’s worth of bragging rights as to who can prepare the best seafood dishes around. Sample fabulous food prepared with the freshest ingredients harvested in our own backyard . . . the Gulf of Mexico. Make sure to see Kay Robertson, the star of A&E’s Duck Dynasty as she will be a celebrity guest speaker for the 2014 event! 6-10 p.m. Please visit tasteofthebayou.org for more information. Saturday, October 4. Creek Crawl - Foley Crawl, Climb and Run through 400 acres of trails on this 5K Obstacle Race! Don’t be afraid of getting a little muddy! The 5 mile race will challenge racers on 25 obstacles and be limited to ages 14 and up. All finishers of this race will receive medals. The 5K course will include at least 15 obstacles of varying difficulty. This family friendly event is for racers 10 years and older. Races will begin with 5 mile Individual Heats at 8:00 AM, 5K Team Heats at 9:00 AM, and 5K Individual Heats at 9:30. This event takes place at Graham Creek Nature Preserve at 23460 Wolf Bay Drive, Foley. Please visit www.active.com for more information.
A LIMITED NUMBER OF TICKETS WILL BE SOLD.
IT’S A-MAZING
Celebrating Over 10 Years Of Family Fun! Get lost and have fun on a farm! September 27 through November 1 Monday - Thursday School Field Trips
“THE GULF COAST’S ORIGINAL CORNFIELD MAZE”
FIELD OF FRIGHT OCTOBER 18, 25, 31, & NOVEMBER 1
COME AND SEE IF YOU CAN SURVIVE THE UNEXPECTED ADRENALINEPUMPING NIGHT. IT’S FOR ALL AGE GROUPS. THE WALKING MAZE WILL BE OPEN AT THE SAME TIME.
OCT 4 & NOV 1
TRICK OR TREAT SATURDAY OCTOBER 25TH
GRAB THE KIDS AND ENJOY THIS ONE-OF-A-KIND TRICK OR TREATING EXPERIENCE! MEET YOUR FAVORITE CARTOON CHARACTERS AND ENJOY TREATS AT ALL OF THE ACTIVITES. KARAOKE DAY FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES!! CHARACTER TIMES: 11AM UNTIL 5PM.
SPECIAL MUSIC DATES OCTOBER 25TH
THE SPRINGS BAND OF NASHVILLE, TN.
NOVEMBER 1ST
90 DEGREES WEST OF NEW ORLEANS.
“HOW MUCH WE LOVE GRANDPARENTS” DAY! THESE DAYS ARE FOR THAT SPECIAL OUTING WITH YOUR GRANDKIDS. GRANDPARENTS WILL RECEIVE 50% OFF THE “GET LOST” TICKET ON THESE DATES. DON’T FORGET YOUR CAMERA!!
BAY AREA FOOD BANK CAN GOOD DRIVE OCTOBER 4,11,18 HELP US STOCK THE FOOD BANK FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON. BRING A CAN GOOD AND GET $1 OFF ADMISSION ON THESE DATES.
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Saturday, October 4. 1st Annual Gulf Coast Gospel Jubilee This event is being held for the benefit of The Light House and the C.A.R.E House of Baldwin County. All the proceeds and donations will go to these two organizations. Join us for music, food, arts & crafts and more. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Foley Soccer Fields at Foley Sports Complex 998 W. Section Ave., Foley. Saturday, October 4. 11th Annual Alabama Coastal Birdfest See October 2 for more information. Saturday, October 4. 20th Annual Bayfest Music Festival See October 4 for more information. Sunday, October 5. Baldwin Pops Concert Baldwin Pops Founders Day Concert will take place at 6 p.m. at Henry George Park in Fairhope. Please call (251) 928-3754 for more information. Sunday, October 5. 32nd Annual Grand Festival of Art See October 4 for more information. Sunday, October 5. 20th Annual Bayfest Music Festival See October 4 for more information. Wednesday, October 8. Team Warriors 4EVER See September 3 for more information. Thursday, October 9. American Cancer Society Vintage Affair Gala and Late Night Party Join the American Cancer Society in a spectacular event to create a world with more
birthdays! Mingle among community leaders at one of Mobile’s premier philanthropic events. An evening filled with elegant hors d’oeuvres from Clifton Morrissette, the smooth sounds of Swing Mobile and exciting silent and live auctions! Wine tasting of varieties awaits you provided by Mobile’s Red or White! Let’s join together to save lives... even if it takes all night! The Alabama Cruise Terminal from 6 p.m. - 12 midnight. Tickets to the Vintage Affair are $100 and include entry to Late Night Party. Tickets to the Late Night Party only, from 9:00 p.m. – midnight, are $30 per person. Please visit gala. acsevents.org for more information. Thursday, October 9. 43rd Annual National Shrimp Festival The 2014 National Shrimp Festival will be held October 9-12. Savor fresh from the gulf seafood at the 43rd Annual National Shrimp Festival during this four-day event that attracts over 300,000 people. This year the festival will play host to more than 80 hours of musical entertainment featuring a lineup of national, regional and local acts. Food is another highlight of the festival with 50 local and regional vendors lining the boardwalk at the public beach with mouthwatering delights. New activities this year include: “Outdoor World” and “Shrimp Festival Idol”. Outdoor World will feature fishing, boating, hunting and other outdoor vendors and activities. Shrimp Festival Idol will be an “American Idol” type competition where high school singers from seven local schools will compete in elimination rounds to find out who will become Shrimp Festival Idol. Families can enter the annual sand sculpture contest on Saturday, Oct. 11th & Kids can take part in a myriad of activities in the newly relocated Children’s Activity Village, including face-painting, karaoke and much more. Runner and walkers can enter the 10K and 5K races to help work off some of the great food at the festival. All net proceeds of the Run will be donated to
Coastal Baldwin Education Enrichment, benefiting the local Gulf Shores & Orange Beach public schools. Art lovers will have almost 200 booths of fine art and arts and crafts vendors from which to choose. Please visit www.myshrimpfestival.com for more information. Saturday, October 11. Heart of Dixie Marching Festival The Pride of Prattville Marching Band would like to cordially invite you to the Heart of Dixie Marching Festival at Stanley Jensen Stadium in Prattville. It will be a fun filled day watching competing high school bands from all over Alabama. We would love to have your high school band come to our lovely city and participate. Please contact the Band Director, Mr. Chris King at 334-365-8804 or at prattvillebands.com if you would like your band to participate. For those that like to watch band competitions we welcome you as well. Start times will be announced on our web page prattvillebands. com as we get closer to the date of the festival. We look forward to seeing many different bands and spectators at our Heart of Dixie Marching Festival.
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 by the 15th of each month!
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If I Stay
When the Game Stands Tall
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: CViolence: BSexual Content: CLanguage: C Alcohol / Drug Use: CThe MPAA has rated If I Stay PG-13 for thematic elements and some sexual material. If I Stay offers a highly predictable and sentimental love story, based on the popular novel by the same name, about a teenager torn between her love of music and her love of a boy. Mia Hall (Chloë Grace Moretz) plays the cello like an angel. Her parents (Mireille Enos, Joshua Leonard), rock-n-rollers from a previous generation, aren’t sure where their daughter’s appreciation for classical music came from, but they are supportive of her blossoming talent. Mia’s boyfriend Adam (Jamie Blackley), also a member of a rock band, enjoys hearing her play as well. Life is almost perfect. Then everything changes in an instant on a snowy highway. Suspended between life and death in an out-of-body experience, Mia watches from the sidelines as her comatose self is rushed to the hospital to undergo surgery. Standing beside the gurney, she watches Nurse Ramirez (Aisha Hinds) lean into her ear and tell her to fight. Yet with her world crumbling around her, Mia struggles to decide if she’ll stay or go into the light at the end of the hall. Like many movies aimed at adolescents, this one portrays characters involved in casual sex and drinking. But in this film, these aren’t college students or young adults. When the story begins Adam is a senior in high school and Mia a junior. Despite the fact she’s likely only 16, Mia gulps down liquor she’s been served in a bar while attending one of Adam’s gigs. And though Mia’s hipster parents may be more liberal than some in their outlook, there doesn’t seem to be any concerns about their daughter’s sexual activity. There certainly aren’t any consequences for her choices. As far as Mia’s mom is concerned, life is just one big mess so just live it. While that may be true, it could get a lot messier than it needs to be if teen viewers imitate the actions of these characters. The story jumps between the present and a jumble of flashbacks designed to fill in the details of Mia’s young life. Among the most redeeming elements are the relationships she shares with her family, including her brother Teddy (Jakob Davies) and her Grandpa (Stacey Keach). She’s also lucky to have friends and relations who stand by her unconscious body offering words of comfort and hope. It’s then that Mia learns about the sacrifices her parents made to encourage her talent. Unfortunately while those heartwarming moments are meant to generate tears, they don’t excuse the content issues that arise in this film. Sex and alcohol aside, Adam also pressures Mia to give up her dream of auditioning for Julliard in order to support his ambitions. While love often means making sacrifices, this seems like an awfully hefty concession for the exceptional cellist to have to make at such a young age.
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: C+ Sexual Content: ALanguage: B Alcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated When the Game Stands Tall PG for thematic material, a scene of violence and brief smoking. Every team would rather win than lose. But nobody wants to be the team that brings a winning streak to an end -- especially one that has lasted for 151 games. From 1992-2004 the De La Salle High School Spartans won every football game they played under the tutelage of Coach Bob Ladouceur (Jim Caviezel) and his assistant Terry Eidson (Michael Chiklis). Ladourceur’s record still stands as the all-time winning coach in California’s high school football arena. Those are stats that could easily go to one’s head. Yet when one team member announces he would rather die on the field than let his team down, Coach Ladourceur’s says the better choice might be collapse on the field -- since it is only high school football. To his credit, Bob is man who is more interested in teaching boys to be honorable and accountable men than bringing home trophies. However, after his team secures their 12th season championship, Bob suffers a heart attack brought on in part by smoking. Five stints later he is under doctor’s orders to take a break from his coaching responsibilities. It is devastating news to Bob’s son Danny (Matthew Daddario) who is heading into his senior year on the football field and wants his dad there to coach him. Bob’s wife Bev (Laura Dern), on the other hand, is ready to have her husband off the gridiron and home spending time with her and their other children. For the first 45 minutes of this biographical movie, the script bobbles around setting up scenes, introducing several story lines and marching out a whole squad of characters before it finally gets to game time. If you can be patient, the rest of the film is remarkably inspiring. That first loss is devastating -- for the team and for their fans as well. Unfortunately it brings out the ugly in a lot of them, including one father who takes the loss as a personal affront to him. Still Bob, who also teaches at the private Catholic school, appears unscathed. When his team fumbles to a second loss, he takes the opportunity to help the players put it in perspective before they face off against the number one team in the country. From a statistical perspective, Bob’s career record (399-25-3 at his retirement in 2013) is extraordinary by any measure. Yet what is even more impressive is his leadership as members of his team face the death of one of their own, deal with an abusive parent and learn to share their emotions. Bob is a man who expects not a perfect performance, but a perfect effort. He is a man who asks his players to make commitments to improve and then holds them responsible. He is a man who does more than coach football. He builds boys into a band of brothers.
What Parents need to know about If I Stay...
Violence: Characters are killed in a car crash. Some blood and injuries portrayed. A girl screams and lashes out after she learns of the death of a loved one. Sexual Content: A teen couple kisses frequently. A girl asks that they go slow and later admits she has not had sex before. The couple is seen undressing one another and tight shots show some brief depictions of bare shoulders while making love. The couple is shown in bed together after having sex on another occasion. A woman asks a man to autograph her partially exposed breast. Language: The script contains numerous uses of scatological slang, course language, mild and moderate profanities, terms of Deity and some vulgar expressions and slurs. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters make references to illegal drugs. Underage teen characters drink on several occasions including in a bar, at a home party and in social settings. A man is shown with a pipe in his mouth.
What Parents need to know about When the Game Stands Tall...
Violence: A character is targeted and shot to death at close range. A father yells at and pushes his son around. Some on-field sports violence is shown. Sexual Content: Brief kissing and embracing is shown. Language: The script contains only a handful of profanities. Alcohol / Drug Use: A man smokes on a couple of occasions. Characters are shown at a house party. Eastern Shore Parents I September 2014
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WE’RE PART OF EVERY COMMUNITY WE SERVE We understand that education is tied to the strength and achievement of the next generation. United Bank proudly supports our students and our local educators.
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