Tropic Falls is the tropical getaway with something for everybody—one ticket includes 23 theme park rides and the region’s biggest indoor water park! Open on select days is the all-new tropical wave pool, Big Water Bay, complete with Coastal Curl surf simulator. Hours vary— get all the details and tickets at VisitOWA.com!
THRILL, THEN CHILL.
At Glass Orthodontics, you’re more than just another faceyou’re a unique person and our team values that. With one dedicated doctor and a hands-on team, everyone will know your name! Consultations are always complimentary and we offer flexible appointments and interest free payment plans. With four locations to serve you, there is always something to smile about at Glass Orthodontics.
Plan outside the box with one of these 10 ideas for celebrating Father’s Day.
Local and nearby activities offer your kids a summer to remember.
Why unstructured, outdoor play is vital to your child’s mental and physical wellness.
Advice from a military mom to help take the stress out of your move.
Henry (11) and Neill (8), sons of Mamie and Joseph Brett and grandsons to Debbie and Henry Brett (Fairhope) and Tis Dean (Oxford, MS).
Henry and Neill both enjoy playing a variety of sports including baseball, soccer, and basketball. When not on the field or court, you can find the boys fishing and tossing their cast nets in Mobile Bay. Both boys share a mutual enjoyment of ALL things Ole Miss, especially Rebel football and baseball. They love Fairhope and have easily adjusted from life in the city to the enjoyable and laid back bay life.
The other day a friend of mine was telling me that if she was “in charge” she would only have it rain at night. We were just having a fun, silly conversation but it got me thinking. If I was in charge, I would let everyone have a summer vacation. Adults included! While that is logistically impossible, it is fun to think about. My adult summer break would look a bit different from my childhood and teen summers. Instead of a two-piece and tan amplifier to lay out by the pool, I would show-up up at 8am to avoid the harmful ultraviolet rays, wearing an incredibly modest swim dress complete with floppy hat, sunglasses, and SPF 250. On rainy days, I would NOT be hanging out ALL DAY at the skating rink, but cleaning out and organizing something in my home or doing some other chore that was long overdue.
We may not get 12 full weeks off like we did when we were in school, but it is fun to have our children available to do fun things with during their summer break. What kinds of things do you have planned for summer? Time on the beach is always a must for us. I have such great childhood memories of the beach from fishing late nights with my cousins on the pier to hunting for seashells in the mornings. In my neighborhood we would all meet up at someone’s house or a designated spot and just do “whatever”. We would invent games, run through sprinklers, and pick and eat wild blackberries until we made ourselves sick. If you had a childhood like that then you know how magical it was. Whether roaming the beach or hanging with friends, spending time outdoors is great for a child’s development as Jan Pierce shares in her feature, Happy Healthy Kids: Eight Reasons to Embrace Outdoor Play.
Living on the coast, we are all too familiar with the regularity of afternoon thunderstorms that can literally dampen plans for outdoor play. Fortunately, we live in an area that has not only a plethora of outdoor activities, but plenty of indoor fun as well. You can find a large variety of suggestions in this month’s Summer Fun Guide, where we have scoured the area to find options for hiking trails, amusement parks, museums, watersports and more. You will find plenty to keep you busy all summer long. Looking for even more? Don’t forget to check out the Family Calendar too!
While you have your calendar out, be sure to make time for Dad. Fathers and other male role-models play such an important part in our kids’ lives and they deserve to be celebrated. When our girls were little, they loved making gifts for Brad. One of his most favorite possessions is a platter with handprint hamburgers and “King of the Grill” painted on it. They all “signed” the back of it. If you are searching for ideas to acknowledge the important men in your childrens’ lives, check out 10 Fun and Creative Ways to Celebrate Dad, by Rebecca Hastings.
As we all welcome the much needed break from school-year routines, I hope everyone dedicates plenty of time to family fun and memory making. Here’s to a safe and happy summer!
lynn@easternshoreparents.com
Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com
Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com
Research Editor Lucy Green
Contributing Writers
Kristi Bush, LSW Tanni Haas, Ph.D.
Gabriele Jones
Pam Molnar
Pam Moore
Dave Ramsey Robert L. Rux, M.D. Works of Wonder Therapy, LLC
Cover Photography Jenn Glies Photography www.jenngliesphotography.com
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Lynn Knighton ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099
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Scott Davis
Everyone has two types of friends. One friend will listen to your issues, but is just there for you to vent. The other is a friend who is able to understand your problems by relating to your point of view. Both friends are good friends, but the differ ence between these two types of people is the skill of empathy. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Without empathy, we cannot connect with others effectively. It allows us to build stronger relationships with friends and family. Empathy is a skill that every parent has to learn and teach to their children.
As a parent, focus on your kid’s behaviors from their point of view. For example, if they are crying, do not focus on them being a “cry baby.” Instead understand that they are trying to communicate
something and that may be the only way they know to get your attention.
Teaching empathy to our children is a long and laborious task. Unfortunately, in our extremely selfish and entitled society, it is obvious that parents are blind to their childrens’ lack of empathy. So how do we teach our children the skill of empathy? Developing empathy can be broken into two categories: Imitation and Understanding.
Empathy development begins in babies through imitation. Mirror neurons allow us to naturally imitate the facial expressions, emotions, reactions, and behaviors of those around us. Research has shown that young children who accurately imitate others are more likely to correctly determine the emotions of others as they mature. This is why it is so important to spend face to face time with your baby
playing games like “Patty Cake”. As your child grows, gently use your hand to guide your child’s hand when necessary to ensure they know the right way to do activities (cleaning up toys, song motions, sports, etc). Remember, your child needs you, not your cell phone.
Empathy continues to grow through experiences. A life full of diverse experiences increases a person’s ability to understand others more clearly. When we encounter people with whom we have something in common, high levels of “feel good” hormones (dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins) are released in the brain, creating a positive connection. This is why it is so important to expose your child to a wide variety of activities, people, and knowledge. The more exposure you give your child, the better he/she will be at understanding different points of view and connecting with people.
Mastering empathy takes tremendous practice and patience. To raise an empathetic child, you must model empathy and begin teaching this skill to your child very early. It continues to develop through exposure to a variety of people and experiences. So do not be afraid to push your children to play games they do not find interesting, read books about things they do not like, and take them places they do not want to go. Help them build relationships with people who have had a variety of emotions and experiences. Also, expose them to people who live out similar values that your family has in diverse ways. This promotes understanding. It might be difficult and painful in the beginning, but the payoff is enormous!
Come see history come to life at Battleship Memorial Park on Saturday, June 3, 2023 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at our Living History Crew Drill. Interact with historical WWII reenactors aboard the USS ALABAMA and the USS DRUM. These crewmen, dressed in WWII period Navy uniforms, hold demonstrations throughout the day, conduct weapons briefings, and share stories told to them by our original crewmen.
The big event of the day happens at 1:00 p.m. when “Call to Battle Stations” is sounded. Grab a spot on the deck of the USS ALABAMA and watch as vintage enemy aircraft fly over and attack the ship. The USS ALABAMA crewmen will defend her with their guns blazing! Spectators will be able to take in the whole experience while the crew fires the ship’s 20mm and 40mm guns. Planes fly based on weather conditions that day. The Deep South Amateur Radio Club will be broadcasting from Radio Central aboard the USS ALABAMA during the drill and welcome visitors to come and listen. For all ham radio operators, the call letters are K4DSR and K5LDA broadcasting between 20 and 40. The drill is open to the public and included with general admission. For more information on the Living History Crew Drill, please visit our Facebook page at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park or call Ashleigh Milne at 251-327-8750.
Distinguished Young Women is a national scholarship program that inspires high school girls to develop their full, individual potential through a fun, transformative experience that culminates in a celebratory showcase of their accomplishments. Our mission is to empower young women to reach their full potential by providing scholarship opportunities for college as well as personal development to become confident leaders. Join us for Community Night on June 21, the Preliminaries on June 22-23, and the National Finals on June 24. Please visit https:// distinguishedyw.org/ for more information.
Page & Palette invites you to join them for a sewer-loving InvestiGATORS Scavenger Hunt at Page & Palette! The scavenger hunt will be held on Saturday, June 10th from 10AM-12PM. Make sure you bring your magnifying glasses and sleuthing friends for a morning filled with InvestiGATOR fun. S.U.I.T Agents, we need you!! Page & Palette is located at 32 S Section St, Fairhope.
Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen’s Market is excited to host the 7th Annual Corn Festival. The festival will feature all your favorite vendors, a corn-eating contest, and tons of activities for the kids. This year there will also be a boat show and fishing expo held in tandem with the festival so people can find everything the season has to offer from both our farmers and our fishermen! Come check out all the incredible options our vendors have to offer. From seafood to farm fresh produce to delicious baked goods to artisan crafted treasures there’s something for everyone at CAFFM! Anyone wearing or carrying CAFFM swag who stops by the information tent will get a FREE ear of corn. If you would like to be a vendor, please contact Alescia at 251-709-4469. The boat show and fishing expo will feature a range of boats for sale as well as information sessions on fishing and boating best practices, licensing, and more. Whether you’re new to marine activities or have years of experience there will be something for you to enjoy. If you’d like to sell your boat at the festival, please contact Prisila at 251-943-9150.
Spanish Fort Library invites you to join them on Friday, June 2, 2023 for Outdoor Movie Night to kick-off the summer reading season. The event will be held on the back patio of the Spanish Fort Public Library. Patio opens at 7 p.m. and movie starts at dusk. Fun for the whole family including face painting, popcorn, cold drinks and movie bingo. Showing will be The Mitchells vs. The Machines. Bring your camping chair and a beach towel and your picnic basket and join us for yard games, bubbles, giant Chess, fellowship and fun all for ZERO dollars!
Event made possible by a FY22 Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Strengthening Communities Grant, The Friends of the Spanish Fort Public Library and ThompsonCat Spanish Fort.
United Way of Baldwin County invites everyone to participate in the 3rd Annual Summer Read-A-Thon where reading books can win you prizes! This year’s Read-A-Thon will take place June 4-10th for K-6th grades. The Read-AThon rules, and the required reading log can be downloaded at www.unitedwaybc.org/read-a-thon. Children will record their books and information on the required reading log. The completed logs should be sent to United Way of Baldwin County (contact information below) by June 14 to be entered into the drawing and to receive a certificate. Completed reading cloud sheets can be sent to: By email: lmummah@unitedway-bc. org By mail: United Way of Baldwin County
Attn: Lana Mummah 700 N McKenzie St. Foley, AL 36535 For information, contact Lana Mummah at 251.943.2110 or lmummah@unitedway-bc.org.
Bellingrath Gardens and Home is excited to announce that Kids Gulf Discovery Day will be back again this year with wonderful activities and educational opportunities for many ages! Kids Gulf Discovery Day will be June 14, from 9am-12pm. There will be a total of eight organizations involved at Kids Gulf Discovery Day. The Mobile Environmental Center is bringing their Raptor Shows with live birds of prey, Dauphin Island Sea Lab will have a touch table with wet and dry preserved marine specimens, and the Alabama Coastal Foundation will have information on the Coastal environment with sea turtle education and activities. Other organizations attending are Alabama Audubon, Alabama Marine Resources Division, Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Keep Mobile Beautiful, and Mobile Baykeeper. Each will provide information and activities for children. Tickets on sale at bellingrath.org.
Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast invites you to join them for Karaoke Night. This evening of Music, Food, and Fun will be held Thursday, June 15th from 5:30pm – 8:00pm at 28788 N. Main Street, Daphne, Alabama. The event is open to the public. Tickets are $15 for one or 2 tickets for $25. Proceeds will benefit Exception Foundation Gulf Coast. Exception Foundation Gulf Coast provides social and recreational opportunities for the special needs community of Baldwin and Mobile Counties. For sponsor opportunities or for more information call (251) 625-8955.
Thomas Hospital welcomes the 37 students from Baldwin County High School, Bayshore Christian School, Daphne High School, Fairhope High School, Gulf Shores High School, Renaissance School of the Eastern Shore, Robertsdale High School, St. Michael Catholic High School, and UMS-Wright Preparatory School who are participating in the Thomas Hospital Auxiliary’s Junior Volunteer program this summer. They are volunteering in the Cardiovascular/Telemetry/Progressive Care Unit (2 North), Cath Lab, Clinical Education, Colony Rehabilitation Hospital, Endoscopy, Fitness Center, Gift Shop, Physical Therapy, Post-Surgical Unit (3 North), Radiology, Same Day Surgery, Surgery, Surgery Waiting Area, and Women’s and Children’s Unit (4 South) at Thomas Hospital.
The Thomas Hospital Auxiliary’s Junior Volunteer program is offered to high school students between the ages 14 to 17 who maintain at least a B average and have an interest in volunteering at the hospital during the summer. The program runs from June 5 to July 28.
“This is a great opportunity for our area students to get involved in and learn about health careers early in their lives,” Melita Willkie, manager of volunteer services at Thomas Hospital, said. “We look forward to offering them a wonderful place to volunteer and the opportunity to provide a valuable service to their community.”
Pictured are Thomas Hospital Junior Volunteers (in alphabetical order) Meredith Bates, Trey Bauldin, Molly Brown, Rebecca Brown, Jorja Carrino, Hannah Davidson, Will Garner, Oliver Hemby, Ana Kangsumrith, Mary Frances Key, Kritika Lama, Isabella Mastin, Lucas McAlexander, Hayden McClay, Allie McTaggart, Giuliana Miceli, Abigail Nance, Will Peak, Evan Pursley, Sarah Claire Stejskal, Hattie Sullivan and Cole Wallace. Not pictured (in alphabetical order) are Lilly Bauldin, Morgan Benson, Arya Bhosale, Abby Callahan, Phoebe Cisneros, Auna Gibson, Marissa Greco, Meredith Hunsader, Jace Jones, Vanessa Jordan, Aubrey Langley, Elly Langley, Olivia Ryan, Deon Shows, and Mary Hart Watson.
Clean Water Alabama (CWA), a Baldwin Countybased, all volunteer, non-profit water preservation group, recently donated 10,000 coloring and activity books to Baldwin County Public Schools to help teach elementary students the importance of being good stewards of Alabama waterways. A yearlong collaborative effort that began with the creation of the materials by CWA member and retired sixth grade teacher “Coach” Wayne Miller, the schools were also given teacher lesson plans to accompany the books.
“Seeing the CWA books published is an amazing feeling!” Miller said. “A lot of people have contributed ideas and suggestions that make these books an educational and fun adventure for children using them.”
The artwork for the books was designed by Grace Roberts, a graphic design student with Coastal Alabama Community College at the time who was awarded a scholarship by CWA for her contribution to the project. According to Miller, Supervisor of Elementary Curriculum for Baldwin County Public Schools, Becky Turner, was instrumental in gaining approval for the school’s use of the coloring and activity books and invited CWA to present the curriculum to STEM teachers earlier this year.
“We are blessed to have wonderful community partners in Baldwin County who care about our students just as much as we do. Not only are these books a hands-on way to learn, but it teaches our students about what is right here in our own backyards and how to protect it,” Turner said. “We cannot wait to see these activities come to life in our classrooms.”
The donation was made possible by the generosity of CWA sponsors, including Piggly Wiggly Stores, Fairhope Soap Company, Daphne Rotary Club, Fairhope Sunset Rotary and Streamline Environmental. In addition to Baldwin County Public Schools, the books have been donated to several area private schools, including Bayside Academy.
A mom came in the other day and asked me an important question: “Why do babies eat sand?” I sat there for a moment and finally had to admit I didn’t know. I guess it will be one of those mysteries of the universe that may never be answered. But she did have some beach questions I could answer, and we talked about some of the serious hazards at the beach. Besides the obvious sunscreen, shade for babies, keeping hydrated, etc., the most serious topics that came up were undertow and jellyfish. Today, we will discuss these topics and more as we explore (Jaws theme music playing) BEACH EMERGENCIES!
Our beaches are the most beautiful natural treasure here in Baldwin County. But with them come some dangers in the form of wildlife and the surf. First of all, it is essential to understand the flag system. Green is good! Yellow means some moderate surf and currents, so take precautions. Red and double red means absolutely no swimming. Finally, purple represents dangerous wildlife present (ex., sharks, jellyfish, etc.) There are
also a few areas you can never swim, including the pass between Little Lagoon and the gulf on West Beach.
Unfortunately, the undertow in the Gulf of Mexico is powerful and responsible for multiple yearly fatalities. The undertow is worse in rough weather, and even the strongest swimmer is no match for it. Be sure to swim at a beach with a lifeguard present and stay away from piers and jetties. If you are caught in an undertow, as much as you want to, don’t panic. The most crucial step is to swim sideways out of the current and parallel to the beach. Once you feel you are not being pulled, swim at an angle towards the shore but away from the undertow. If you cannot swim out of the current sideways, then relax and let the current take you out until it stops. Then swim back to shore. Be sure to wave your arms and attract attention to other beaches if you cannot swim back in.
If the undertow wasn’t enough for you, we also have to consider the wildlife on the beach. Watch the local news and look for purple flags indicating recent issues with sharks and/or jellyfish. Luckily, shark attacks
are rare. However, jellyfish are common. If you or your child is stung by a jellyfish, imme diately wash off the area with saltwater. Tap or pool water will make the sting worse. Next, liberally spray down the area with vinegar to neutralize the pain (often, lifeguards will have this, but it’s a good idea to keep some in the beach bag). Then, apply shaving cream to the sting and remove it with a razor or a cred it card. This sounds crazy, but it is an efficient way to remove any remaining tentacles from the body without touching them with your hands. Respray the area with vinegar and then use ibuprofen or acetaminophen and some ice to help relieve symptoms. Most symptoms resolve in 24-48 hours, but if they don’t, seek help from a medical provider.
Ah, the joys of summer. Baseball, swim ming, going to the beach, getting stung by jellyfish... it’s all part of a week’s vacation, right? So be good, and use sunscreen!
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In here: We laugh. We try. We make mistakes. We try again. We grow.
This is the saying that is displayed on a sign hanging in the classroom of Mrs. Jesica Hartley, the Multiple Disabilities teacher at Spanish Fort High School. She explains these are the words she lives by daily as she works with her students, ranging in age from 15-21 years old.
“One of the most rewarding parts of being a teacher in a special needs self-contained classroom is watching my students grow and become more independent,” Mrs. Hartley shares. “Having a student for four to seven years in the same class can be very challenging, but being able to witness their growth and build true relationships with my students and their parents is the greatest feeling.”
Mrs. Hartley explained that she keeps her students motivated to learn, year in and year out, by being fun and spontaneous! Some ways she might implement this is by an impromptu game of Bingo, a surprise update to the seating chart or even a dance party to celebrate great behavior!
“My students have taught me how to adapt, be patient and what genuine love is,” she said. “They have made me a better person, wife and mother. They have taught me tomorrow is a new day!”
Mrs. Hartley has been teaching for 17 years and says she stays motivated to teach by cherishing the daily moments where her students master a new skill or accomplish a goal that
“All I really want as a teacher is to make my students feel loved and included. I want them to be happy, love coming to school, and socialize as much as possible,” said Mrs. Hartley. “My goal is to help them make friends and make progress in every area I can, whether that’s academically, socially, behaviorally or a life skill. I want society to accept them, love them and believe in them as much as I do. I always celebrate the little things because they matter!”
Jesica Hartley is married to Lee and together they have two children: Madison (10) and Mason (9). The family loves to spend time together attending sporting events, sitting around their pool or going to the beach. Jessica has completed several Bachelor degrees and is certified in teaching Special Education (K-12).
J Larry Newton teachers, Mandy Ward, Laura Dendy, Richard Simmons...oops...we mean Jake Lewis, and Adrienne Smith wowed their 6th
Baldwin County High School recently held its annual prom celebration. During the event, the Prom Court was introduced and the Prom King and Queen were announced. Prom Court members included, from left, Gavin Jerkins, John David Weatherford, Langston Lewis, Sam Day, Jicaris Baldwin, Ky McNulty, Arionna Tutor, Kailee Cox, Haley Wicker, Shyanne Wise, Audrey Garrett and Kierra Means . Prom King is Ky McNulty and the Prom Queen is Arionna Tutor.
BCS 6thgrade students enjoyed a trip of a lifetime to Washington, D.C. last month! So many wonderful memories were made, and so many amazing memorials were seen!
Students, teachers, and staff at W. J. Carroll Intermediate School were excited to get to celebrate former students during their Senior Walk this morning.
We are so proud of these young men and women that returned to walk WJC halls one last time as a Daphne Trojan! Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away!” – Dr. Seuss
FWES Reading/STEAM Garden is coming along!! Students have learned, planned, and worked to help this garden come together for the school! Thank you to all that have helped!! Thank you Tynes at Jubliee Landscape for helping us till and move plants, Chad Galloway and Darryl Chesser from Landscape Workshop for providing/installing irrigation!! Thank you to our amazing parents Jessie Patterson, Kristy Hicks, and Amy Smith for countless hours working with students in the garden! Also, this plan could not have come together without Carmen Flammini from Alabama A&M 4-H Extension.
BCS second-grade classes had the best time traveling back to ancient Egypt today! Students studied and created projects of famous Pharaohs and Queens of the Nile! Clarence, the camel, showed up to offer camel rides back through time!
Christ the King Catholic School has been given the gift of having Mrs. Karen Wilson as a teacher at our school for the past 21 years. Mrs. Wilson’s current 5th grade class wishes her the very best as she begins her new journey of retirement. You have touched the lives of so many and we are forever grateful you shared your passion of teaching with us. “We thank God every time we think of you.” -
Philippians 1:3
A special congratulations to Spanish Fort Middle teachers Monica Shaner & Angela Dailey for completing their eMints Certification!
Teacher Appreciation Week is in full swing in the Digital Marketing classes. Students interviewed teachers and then created word art just for them! They were printed, laminated and delivered to teachers to proudly display in their classrooms and always know they are loved by their students!
3rd grade has been studying ways they can care for and help Earth. Students put what they learned into action by planting trees.
A big congratulations to the Daphne High School Men’s Soccer Team and Coach Burt who are now the 7A State Champions for the 2nd year in a row!
Renaissance School has been chosen to pilot IdeaMapper, a new mind mapping software out of the UK!
Science Fair
Renaissance Renaissance School Science Fair was remarkable. Pictured below are Amelia-Rose and Kyah. Their presentation detailed a new vaccine that can actually cure cancer!
The BCS Varsity cheerleaders recently participated in the Beach Blast cheerleading competition in Orange Beach. While there, they performed a game day routine and walked away as All Girl School Division champions.
Congratulations, BCS Varsity Cheer!
Congratulations to Trip Duke and Miles Miller of Fairhope High Men’s Golf for being named to the 7A All-Star golf team. They will have the chance to compete in the North-South all star match in July in Montgomery.
Robertsdale High School NJROTC
(including Elberta High School Cadets) has once again been named by the Navy as a Distinguished Unit with Academic Honors. Only 12 units in the five-state area can achieve this status. It was another great year for us with a #5 finish at the Orienteering USA National Championship, a #9 finish at the NJROTC Air Rifle National Championship, a top 12.5% national finish in CyberPatriot, and we will be at the International SeaPerch Championship later this week in Maryland. Additionally, we will be traveling to Ohio in shoot in the CMP Junior Olympics and Cadet Haley Wheeles finished #9 out of 6,400 shooters nationally at the All-Service JROTC National Championship in Ohio. Please congratulate our cadets when you see them.
Announcing the 5th recipient of the Hardy E. Calloway Memorial Scholarship!
Please help us congratulate our 2023 award recipient, Maddox Davis Maddox will be attending Delta State University this fall for his Bachelor of Commercial Aviation degree in Flight Operations. He received a certificate along with a check for $1,000 presented at the Fairhope High School awards night. The scholarship committee focused on how the financial support may be able to help a graduating Senior in the transition to college and how they exemplify the attributes of Hardy E. Calloway. In the application, Maddox shared his perspective on teamwork, honoring our Veterans, and being a leader amongst peers.
Thank each one of you who have supported this scholarship to make this possible and to continue remembering and honoring Hardy E. Calloway.
Bayside Academy congratulates its 2023 winners for the Baldwin County Soil and Water Conservation District Poster Contest. This year’s theme was “One Water.”
Our first-place winners will advance to the next level of
8th grade students at CTKCS put all their learning to the test when they created their final Physics project at CTKCS. Students created different activities based on principles of physics. Then younger students were able to come play these games and activities while learning how it works. The creativity of these games was outstanding! Great job CTKCS 8th Grade!
competition.
2023 First Place Winners
Lucas Brooks ‘35 –
Grades K–1 First Place
Addie Babcock ‘28 –
Grades 7–9 First Place
We are so proud of these
Elementary Visits with Special Guest Stonebridge Elementary 3rd grade students
What a special way to end the school year. At the United States Sports Academy, three Robertsdale High School students placed in the 2023 USSA Athletes In Motion art contest.
Violet Bantin took the Overall prize winning $1,000 for our art class along with a cash prize, Lilly Garrison took home 2nd place in her category and Olivia Baehr took 3rd place in her category. Congratulations to all of the winners of this years USSA art contest.
Christ the King Catholic School’s tiny Saints have been hard at work all year. To celebrate the arts, parents were invited to attend an art walk through the campus. The
Kinley Abrams, a third-grade student in Mrs. Daves’ class at Daphne Elementary School, was one of four Baldwin County Red Ribbon leaders recognized for her hard work during a ceremony at the Drug Education Council building in Mobile. The theme for her service project was honoring first responders and veterans. With the help of DES PTO, they put together a spectacular luncheon for police officers, firefighters and EMT thanking them for their service. This was just one of the four components of her thoughtful project. Way to go Kinley! You make Daphne Trojans proud!
Congratulations to our Nature Connect Outdoor School students on graduating from kindergarten! You have spent a year learning about the wonders of the natural world, all while learning to read sight words & add numbers. We are so proud of you. As you move on to the next chapter in your education, always remember to keep exploring, learning, and stay curious!
As turtle season begins for the “Share the Beach” Turtle People (volunteers), it also begins for many second graders. “Over 700 second grade students in Baldwin County Elementary Schools (Elberta, Foley Florence Mathis, Foley Elementary, Newton Elementary, Magnolia Elementary, and Swift Elementary Schools) have received a copy of Linda B. Schmitz Spangrud’s book “Miss Sandra and the Turtle People”. Miss Sandra portrays the story of a young turtle volunteer who comes to a life decision about her future and describes how she assists the Gulf Coast with environmental awareness. Miss Sandra, after guidance from her turtle friends, realizes it is more important to follow your dreams and passions. It informs children and families of the appropriate etiquette and rules for turtle protection and environmental protection guidelines in a playful story line with colorful turtle illustrations empathizing with the “Leave Only Footprints” initiative.
Spangrud is thrilled that so many students will be able to hear the story and learn how to help save the turtles and protect our beach environment. She is speechless on all the funders who donated to the cause and wishes to thank them publicly. Mayor Ralph Helmrich and Alabama Credit Union for funding the books for Foley Elementary School and Florence Mathias Elementary Schools, James Lipscomb & Sons for Magnolia Elementary School, 5 Star Air Conditioning for Swift Elementary School, Centennial Bank for Elberta Elementary School, and Oak Hollow Farms for Newton Elementary School.
Renaissance School Executive Director/Head of School was privileged to spend an entire school year learning about local job opportunities and high demand career paths. Thank you SAWDC for including us! This will truly help
J Larry Newton students recently sent their Special Olympians off in style with a school wide parade! 6th graders, Maddie Tindle and Aubree Gill led the parade with a sign showing this year’s theme “It’s Cool to Be Kind”. JLN Special Olympians pictured from left to right: Arysmel Cedillo, Cullen Ruffner, Jabrail Johnson, Nora Bennett, Aiden Garrett, and Dakota Cartwright. Educational aides, Wendy Littlejohn, Shannon Finch, Kimmie Williams and special education teacher Maegan McDonald were excited to go and root them on during their events!
A special congratulations goes out to five Bayside Academy students who participated in St. Michael High School’s Third Annual Spring Model UN Simulation held on Saturday, March 18. Adriane Clemens ‘25, Amelia Hicks ’27, and Lanee Imperato ‘25 served on the Main Committee: Social Humanitarian (SOCHUM) Committee with the topic of Eliminating All Forms of Discrimination against Individuals Experiencing Homelessness and Decriminalizing Homelessness. Nate Bullock ‘27 and Sophia Haines ‘25 served on the Crisis Committee: Disarmament (DISEC) Committee with the topic of Preventing the Weaponization of Outer Space. All of our delegates represented the Bayside Academy’s student talent very well. In addition, Amelia Hicks was recognized during the closing ceremony and received an Honorable Mention award for her position paper.
In the past three years, impressively, Bayside Academy delegates have won four awards at the Spring Cardinal Model UN Conferences.
Pictured: Bayside Academy’s Model UN Sponsor Liz Mulligan with students Amelia Hicks, Nate Bullock, Lanee Imperato, Adriane Clemens, and Sophia Haines
Fairhope West National Elementary Honor Society completed their Bay Cleanup Service Project in recognition of Earth Day. 52 students, parents, and faculty members picked up 12 bags of trash. Happy Earth Day!
Congratulations to Patrice Williams, teacher at Daphne East Elementary, for being selected as a recipient of the Joshua Eric Hall Baldwin Proud Memorial Scholarship. In honor of our former colleague Josh Hall, the Joshua Eric Hall Baldwin Proud Memorial Scholarship has been created to recognize an employee who is enrolled in a Teacher Certification program or for an employee’s child who is enrolled in a teacher certification program. We want to thank everyone who donated. Josh loved children and loved life.
lawyer, two local businessmen, a lineman supervisor, a therapist, and a
Congratulations to the newly inducted members of the DMS Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society! Go Trojans!
5th Graders came to school today dressed in their future career attire! We know all of our Foley Lions will achieve any goal they set their mind to!
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
- Eleanor RooseveltTuesday, May 9th was an emotional day for the St. Michael Catholic High School class of 2023, as they participated in the “Senior Walk.” The halls of the school were lined with teachers, younger students, coaches and parents, as the seniors walked the school halls as a class for the last
4th, 5th & 6th grade classes at Robertsdale Elementary did an Earth
will receive a gold token. Pictured here are
St. Michael held its annual Senior Art Show recently. Our Art teacher, Mrs. Pippin, beautifully displayed the incredible paintings, drawings and ceramics in our front lobby for all visitors to the school to enjoy. The week-long display kicked off with an evening “Opening” and reception. We are proud of these creative Cardinals! FRom left to right: Josh
It’s eMINTS Graduation night, and our FEES teachers Mrs. Clements, Mrs. Alman, Mrs. Brooks, Mrs. Farmer, Mrs. Brown, Mrs. Hood, and Mrs. Washington (not pictured) had a chance to celebrate their success! They have each completed the 2-year comprehensive eMINTS training, and are now certified eMINTS teachers! Thank you for going above and beyond for your students. We are PIRATE PROUD of you!
Perdido School Raiders track and field team recently competed in the championship meet with much success.
Traegan James was a standout performer, winning the 100- and 200-meter races, and leading the way in the 4x100 relay team alongside Jerry Sellers, Swayden Byrd, and Brantley Vinson Presley Roberts also shone, winning the 100 meter race and leading the 4x100 team to victory with Saddie Wiggins, Mya Martinez, and Alley Hall
Gavin Brandt gave a spectacular performance in the 1600 meter race, breaking his personal record with an impressive time of 5:51. Paisley Coley also put on a stunning display, winning both the 1600- and 800-meter races, and receiving the MVP award for her outstanding performance.
The boys’ team continued their dominance, winning the 1A championship for the third year in a row under the leadership of Coach Vincent Coley. The girls’ team also put up a commendable effort, placing second in the 1A division.
Coach Coley said none of this would have been possible without the support of the Perdido School community. “We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported the team, from the cafeteria staff who provided nourishment and fuel to principal Phillip Stewart and assistant principal Alysson Maxwell who cheered them on every step of the way. The team has truly made their school and community proud, and we look forward to seeing what they will achieve in the future.” JUNE
What a wonderful Saturday during the 4th Annual Toro Foundation Miss Spirit of Spanish Fort pageant. This year we crowned 11 young ladies, ranging from 18 months to high school in their respective categories
Miss Little Mini Miss ~ Deanna C
Miss Mini Miss ~ Esther T
Miss Tiny Miss ~ Lily F
1st Grade Tiny Miss ~ Fabiana R
2nd Grade Little Miss ~ Hannah W
3rd Grade Tiny Miss ~ Stella L
4th Grade Young Miss ~ Victoria H
5th Grade Young Miss ~ Mary Beasley
Young Miss ~ Paige B
Miss Spirit of Spanis Fort ~ Gretchyn S & Brylee T
(not pictured)
Congratulations to ALL the young ladies who participated this year. It takes a lot of courage to get in front of an audience and EVERYONE was absolutely beautiful and shined brightly.
Color Spanish Fort Elementary 6th graders ready for middle school! We had a fun day celebrating them with volleyball, kickball, football, jumpy, wiffle ball, and the color competition! It was an amazing day full of memories with their friends.
Congratulations to the Spanish Fort High French students who were inducted into the French Honor Society today. Over 45 students from Mrs. Dismukes and Mrs. Daniels classes participated in the event which inducted them into SFHS Chapter of the National French
To meet the requirements for admission to the SFHS Chapter of the National French Honor Society, La Société Honoraire de Français (SHF), students must: Complete or be enrolled in French II or higher Be enrolled in grades 10, 11, or 12
Earn an “A” in all French coursework attempted Maintain a “B” average or higher in all other coursework
Maintain an exemplary discipline record Members of the National French Honor Society excel in the areas of scholarship, character,
and leadership. The goals of the organization are to promote and reward high standards of scholarship, stimulate interest in the study of French, and create enthusiasm for and an understanding of francophone culture and civilization. Following the ceremony and certificate presentation students and families enjoyed a reception in the school library. Congratulations to all inductees and the SFHS French Club.
Congratulations to the following Daphne Middle School students for being selected to participate in All-State Honor Band this weekend in Huntsville!
Makenzie Howell
Kathryn Chakwin
Samantha Neely
Braxton Peoples
Cody Caldwell
A special dedication was held this afternoon at Foley Middle School for Mrs. Susan Norman. Mrs. Norman has been an educator for over 50 years, 34 of which have been in the Baldwin County Public School system. Mrs. Norman is an acclaimed librarian who mentors students, helps students develop a love of reading, and encourages students daily while supporting the staff and administration at Foley Middle. Some of Mrs. Norman’s former students include NBA legend Magic Johnson who she taught in Michigan before relocating to Baldwin County. Mrs. Norman also taught NFL players Julio Jones and D.J. Fluker who are both Foley alumni. Joining her at the reception were former Foley Middle Administrators Mr. Shoots and Mr. Phildus. Mrs. Norman received a special plaque at the ribbon-cutting at the dedication of the “Susan Norman Media Center.” Former administrators and staff members at Foley Middle were on hand to celebrate as well as current teachers staff and administrators. Congratulations Mrs. Norman and thank you for your years of continued service to students.
A little rain didn’t stop these 1st Graders from having fun on a rained-out Field Day! A heartfelt “Thank you” to our wonderful Library Media Specialist, Mrs. Mabire. She along with Mrs. Ward (the BEST counselor around), hosted a dance party and special story time.
A great time was had by all at St. Michael Catholic School’s annual “Battle of the Houses”! The House of O’Sullivan claimed the House Cup (sorry Quinlan, Portier and Allen), but everyone participated and had fun! It was a great way to end the year of House competitions. Hats off to our fabulous student government leaders for organizing this afternoon! School spirit is alive and well, Go Cardinals!
The king’s crown was stolen during a jousting match and Ms. Ward’s classes solved numerous puzzles about Medieval Europe to find where the thief hid it.
Bayside Academy senior Ty Postle has been named a WKRG ScholarAthlete of the Year.
An AP Scholar, Ty is a National Merit Finalist with a 4.48 weighted GPA. Additionally, he is a member of the Bayside’s Scholars Bowl team and Honor Council, as well as the National Honor Society and is an Eagle Scout.
Ty also excels as a runner. He has been named All-State in cross country three times, was the 2021 4A AHSAA Cross Country individual runner-up, and was a 2022 AHSAA Cross Country All-Star. In track and field, he was the 2022 3A AHSAA Outdoor individual runner-up in the 800 meter run, 1600 meter run, and 3200 meter run. He has also been named Outdoor All-State six times and Indoor once. Ty has been a member of three AHSAA State Title teams (2020 1A–3A Indoor, 2021 4A Cross Country, and 2022 3A Outdoor) and a member of six AHSAA State RunnerUp teams. He is the son of Melissa and Eric Postle.
Pictured: Bayside Academy senior Ty Postle with his mother Melissa, Dr. Katrina Wahlstrom of the United States Sports Academy, and coach Joe Swagart.
Craig Smith who has announced plans to retire at the end of this school year. Smith quipped at the beginning of the ceremony that he was nine for nine with no rain-outs and hoped to make it through another one without rain. And they nearly did make it as the rains came pouring down near the end. The downpour did not wash away the celebration of the accomplishment.
*Academic Banners were displayed on the backs of students who dedicated themselves to excellence in academics and involvement in their school and community. To receive the banners, the senior students must have a 21 ACT score or better, involved in two or more extracurriculars, 3.5 GPA or better, and completed a Career Ready Credential.
Summerdale School 5th grade has enjoyed read campfire stories and worked together to build tents for their indoor camp out.
The choirs from Robertsdale high school, and Robertsdale elementary joined forces on Tuesday night to present a concert of beautiful music before family and friends. Great job students and directors.
Gulf Shores Middle School proudly introduces the “Trash Collection”. Mrs. Michaelson’s Advanced Art class used donated clothing and recycled material to create these beautiful pieces of art for Earth Day.
GlenLakes Golf Club owners entered their 10th year of business they wanted to give back to their community in a big way. What better way to give back than by assisting the youth, our future leaders, with a college scholarship. GlenLakes developed the GlenLakes Junior Golf League Scholarship and is proud to announce the 2023 GlenLakes Junior Golf League Scholarship Recipients are:
Olivia Akins
Olivia was a participant in the first GlenLakes Junior Golf League in 2019. She took lessons from David Musial, PGA General Manager at GlenLakes, and became the #1 Golfer on the Elberta High School,
Channing Cantu
Channing joined the GlenLakes Junior Golf League in 2020. She took lessons from David Musial, PGA General Manager at GlenLakes, and was awarded a Golf Scholarship to Jefferson State College in Birmingham, Alabama. She played on the Orange Beach High School, Girls Golf Team since her family
Cayden played for (2) seasons on the Foley High School, Varsity Boys Golf Team. Cayden won the Junior League - Stroke Play Tournament in 2023. Cayden takes lessons from David Musial, PGA, and aspires to play Collegiate golf. He joined the GlenLakes Junior Golf League in 2021.
Congratulations to the three graduating seniors. We are proud of you and wish you much success. Pictures are the winners and presenter, Linda B. Spangrud.
Gulf Shores Middle School has been named the CLAS District 1 Banner School for 2023, thanks to their unique, student-centered programs that focus on promoting health and wellness among students. During the 2021-2022 school year, the school implemented several activities, including cycling, movement, and gardening programs that have helped students improve their physical and mental health, as well as their overall wellbeing.
One of the most notable activities implemented by the school was the cycling program, which began with stationary bikes in the media center and select classrooms, and then expanded to include 60 mountain bikes that were used in physical education classes, science classes, and the after-school care program. The program not only helped students improve their focus and attention, but also increased their self-esteem and confidence, resulting in improved attendance and test scores.
The school also implemented “moving breaks” that allowed students to walk, play, and compete during breaks, while promoting social interaction and overall wellness. Students were provided with FDA-approved “Smart Snacks” that were devoid of artificial colors and additives and adhered to strict nutritional guidelines. The school created graphics showcasing the benefits of these snacks, which helped students understand the importance of good nutrition.
In addition to these activities, the school also focused on gardening by providing classrooms with Aerogardens, small hydroponic setups that allowed students to grow their own food. The school also had raised beds, herb gardens, and a composting system, and science classes went on foraging trips. The school received a grant to build an outdoor greenhouse, which will focus on tomatoes and cucumbers to be used in the school cafeteria, highlighting the importance of a true Farm-to-Table experience.
The success of the program was evident through several measures. Improved attendance and behavior were observed, leading to increased academic achievement. The cycling program also helped students improve their physical fitness and mental health, resulting in improved test scores. The school’s unique approach to promoting health and wellness among students has been recognized by CLAS, making Gulf Shores Middle School the CLAS District 1 Banner School for 2023.
Three Baldwin County High School seniors have been awarded Will Brooks Memorial Scholarships: Sam Day, Jaelyn Gray, and Mallory Hastings. The Will Brooks Memorial Scholarship was established by friends and family of Will, a 2019 honor graduate of BCHS. Will was a freshman at Troy University when he died in a tragic accident on Christmas Eve in a tragic accident. The scholarships are awarded to graduating young people who exhibit the vibrant spirit of Will and his love of life. The scholarships were presented by Will’s family during the BCHS Senior Awards Night Ceremony.
Daphne Elementary School would like to thank their AMAZING PTO for all their hard work this school year. They work together as a team to make sure school-wide events are extra special for the students at DES. One of their school beautification projects this year was to plant flowers and raised garden beds in one of the student garden areas on campus. They also go above and beyond to make sure the students, faculty and staff feel loved and supported all year long!
Bayside Academy students brought home big accolades from the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) State Visual Arts Competition. The state competition was held at Faulkner University in Montgomery.
Bayside Academy First Place Winners
Wilder Nelson ’35: 1st Place, Mixed Media 3D (K–1st Grade Division)
Lucas Brooks ’35: 1st Place, Painting (K–1st Grade Division)
Cora Rochofski ’35: 1st Place, Black & White Drawing (K–1st Grade Division)
Branch Thomas ’33: 1st Place and Best of Show, Collage (2nd–3rd Grade Division)
’32: 1st Place, Printmaking (2nd–3rd Grade Division)
’23: 1st Place, Photography (9th–12th Grade Division)
Bayside Academy Second Place Winners
’33: 2nd Place, Color Drawing (2nd–3rd Grade Division)
Charlotte Denniston ’31: 2nd Place, Mixed Media (4th–5th Grade Division)
Harrison Foster ’25: 2nd Place, Arts and Crafts Pottery (9th–12th Grade Division)
Fennel Hamilton ’23: 2nd Place, Painting (9th–12th Grade Division)
Harrison Foster, Wilder Nelson, Lucas Brooks, and Samuel Carpenter will have their work advance to the Southeastern Commission of Independent Schools (SECIS) Art Show. The SECIS encompasses the independent school associations of Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, and South Carolina
Spanish Fort Middle enjoyed celebrating the 8th graders and
Foley High honored the outgoing students at the annual Senior Awards Banquet. There was just shy of $7 million dollars that were awarded to the senior students. Thank you to Mrs. Ivey and Ms. Gosa for hosting such a great event!
Students enjoyed a beach themed day in Mrs. Mathison’s class at Foley Elementary. Students “laid out” while playing reading games on their Chromebooks. The class completed a walk the room—found beach photos and wrote the words down. First grade was a ball! The students worked together to create a list of the top 10 things they thought were the best during first grade. To be silly, students colored the most unusual pair of flip flops. To wrap up Beach Day, students enjoyed Hawaiian Punch and shark gummies.
Florence B Mathis Elementary School hosted its 2nd Annual STEAM Scholars’ Bowl. After 3 rounds, Team 4 (Elliot, Landon, Walker, and Brody) won!All teams answered questions relating to the topics of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Congratulations to all of our participants! A special thank you to Rep. Frances Holk-Jones, our state representative for the City of Foley, for sponsoring the 20222023 Scholars’ Bowl Team.
Congratulations to the rising 6th Graders at Belforest Elementary who were inducted into our National Elementary Honor Society!
BCS first-grade students enjoyed a fun-filled day last month learning all about jungle animals! The students really showed some creativity with all their costumes.
Congratulations to the eight $20,000 winners of the Alabama Arts Education Initiative awards. Each art or band teacher will receive $20,000 for their program for a total of $160,000 coming to schools in Baldwin County. The Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) is committed to the development of comprehensive, interdisciplinary arts education programs for students to support a well-rounded education.
The Alabama State Department of Education offers $20,000 - $25,000 grants to public schools and community organizations in order to strengthen the development and implementation of a comprehensive arts education program in the schools. Grants may provide additional support to schools having a current plan designed to provide quality arts instruction.
Congratulations to Fairhope East Elementary, Bay Minette Middle, Silverhill Elementary, Fairhope High, Spanish Fort Elementary, Foley Elementary, and Baldwin County High School.
The Baldwin County High School Class of 2023 took a walked down memory lane Monday, May 15. Following their graduation practice, students held a Senior Walk through the hallways of Bay Minette Elementary School. They were met with the cheers from the younger students as well as many of their former teachers. Local elementary schools will also hold similar Senior Walks this morning for their alumni students. The procession was led by the two newly-named principals for BMES and BCHS: Allison Maxwell and Richard Paul, respectively.
Teacher Appreciation Week! Thank you to everyone that participated!
The Original Oyster House awarded its 18th Annual Chelsea Garvin Spirit Scholarships to Maggie Britt of Bayside Academy and Alice Raybosh of Fairhope High School. Britt plans to attend Mississippi State University and Raybosh plans to attend Auburn University this fall.
In 2006, the scholarship was founded in loving memory of Chelsea Garvin, who was an exceptional employee, a volunteer Fish River Fire Department Rescue Diver and a talented artist. Tragically at age 19, Chelsea died in a boating accident while volunteering.
This year’s awardees reflect Chelsea Garvin’s spirit and artistic talent. Britt submitted a multimedia piece with brilliant colors finished with an epoxy resin. Drawing from her rich heritage, her application stood out. “I am the 5th generation of women living on Mobile Bay. The water is my happy place. I have memories of making projects with my grandmother out of oyster shells and other bay articles. Seafood plays a major role in our family gatherings, from catching, to cooking and eating,” said Britt.
Raybosh’s stunning textural oyster earned the most votes from this year’s scholarship committee. Her community work also made an impact. “I am very dedicated to volunteer work in my community especially with the youth. Previous volunteer projects have included youth lacrosse coach, assistant teacher to an elementary classroom as well as a tutor,” wrote Raybosh.
The winning artworks will be on display at both Original Oyster House locations for patrons and tourists to enjoy.
It is often said that the fondest memories are made when gathered around the kitchen table. Julia Mahatek ar, who is sharing her favorite recipe with us this month, and her family, most certainly use meal time to create fond memories together that will last a lifetime.
“We have many family traditions, but I think our favorite family tradition is our Family Sunday,” said Julia. “Family Sunday is where every Sunday each family member gets a turn at being the honoree. The honoree gets to choose the meal and a family activity.”
Julia shares further, “Some memorable Family Sundays have been when our three year old chose chicken nuggets and macaroni and cheese and then wanted us all to play pirates. Or the night before our teenager had an AP art assignment due, she handed out art paper and we all painted. One Sunday, I handed out photocopies of a short play from a library book and made everyone act out a play together. We laughed through the entire thing.”
Before Julia and Parag met, Parag was a single dad who adopted Brayden (18) from Guatemala through Children of the World and Julia was a single mom to Molly (19). They met in 2008 and then married in 2011, after a fairy tale-like proposal, and had two more children: Dahlia Lakshmi (11) and Nikhil (3).
“When we married, we had a beautiful double ceremony: a Hindu ceremony and American ceremony. Parag even rode in on a white horse and I was driven up by rickshaw. Our only attendants were our children, Molly and Brayden, as maid of honor and best man,” Julia shared. “Every year we celebrate our family anniversary at the Fairhope Yacht Club gazebo (where we met) the Friday before Mother’s Day with Ravenite pizza.”
Julia decided to share a traditional Indian recipe with us this month.
“Keema is an Indian dish that our dear friend, Kunja Jadhav introduced to me when
Parag and I were dating. I could never replicate her keema and after many failed attempts, I finally got the right blend of spices and meats and feel like I can claim this specific recipe as my own,” said Julia. “I’m afraid the Indian Aunties might faint to see I’m using canned tomatoes, but when you are a busy mom with a large family, some short cuts are necessary.”
Ingredients:
• 2 onions, chopped
• 3 serrano chilis, chopped (can sub jalapenos)
• 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 TBS. ginger, minced
Spice Blend: 5 tsp. chili powder, 1 TBS salt, 4 tsp. turmeric, 1 TBS cumin, 2 tsp paprika
• 1 Ib. ground lamb
• 1 Ib. ground chicken
• 2 C. diced tomatoes
• *5 TBS ground coriander
• *3 TBS. garam masala
*add last and don’t stir.
• 2 c. frozen peas (add after pressure releases)
• 1 c. fresh cilantro, chopped
Serve with naan, chapati or roti (Stonefire garlic naan is our favorite, toasted with melted butter or ghee.)
Instructions:
1. Turn on Instant Pot’s Saute Setting.
2. Saute onions, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chilis, garlic and ginger. Saute 2 minutes.
4. Combine chili powder, salt, turmeric, cumin and paprika. Mix spice blend into Instant Pot.
5. Add ground meat and brown.
6. Cancel Instant Pot.
7. Add tomatoes (and 1/2 to 1 cup water if looks dry.)
8. Add coriander and garam masala to top. Don’t stir to prevent sticking to pot.
9. Place lid and press manual, 5 minutes, natural release.
10. Stir in peas and press saute, if needed, to evaporate liquid.
11. Sprinkle cilantro just before serving. Enjoy with garlic naan.
*Can also be cooked in a dutch oven on the stovetop. Allow the meat to simmer on stove for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld. Stir to prevent sticking. Add water if meat gets too dry.
Serving Suggestions: In India, the only utensils you need are your hands and the occasional spoon. Pinch off a piece of the flatbread to scoop the meat. Keema is served alongside a plate of raw veggies: celery, carrots, radish, fresh onion, lemon slices, cucumber, etc.
Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August.
Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.
Every dad needs reminders of how much he is loved and valued. While you don’t want to forgo the handmade cards and the offbeat kid ideas, these 10 ways to celebrate dad are sure to remind him of how much you care and give everyone some fun along the way.
Scavenger Hunt: This works for kids of all ages, plus it can be as involved as you want it to be. Come up with fun clues like “As a dad I could not ask for better, your next clue is where you find a letter,” to lead Dad around the house to find a Father’s Day prize. You can make up your own clues or download a set from ETSY. You’re sure to get lots of giggles from kids every step of the way.
To make this work with older kids, you can even take the hunt beyond the house to go to places around town. Give him a clue when he arrives at each location, eventually ending up at a favorite restaurant or event like a baseball game or concert.
Memory Lane: Even the most macho dads can appreciate a little trip down memory lane, especially for Father’s Day. Break out some old photos and create a short movie full of memories for him. This is the perfect project for tweens and teens to take charge of. For younger helpers, get photos printed and have them cre ate a poster of memories.
It’s even great to get photos from before Dad was, well, a dad. Give him the chance to tell stories about who he was as a kid and before he embraced dad life.
Finish a Project: Every dad we know has some project they started that they never got around to finishing because dad life is busy. Work together to help him finish a project. Whether it’s finally building the shelves he needs or planting the garden he dreams of, working together will make the project even sweeter.
Challenge: This can be as crazy as you want it to be. Think outdoor races or a bake-off. Maybe a game of basketball or chess. Discover a fun challenge you can do for some friendly competition and time together.
Serve Him: This is not giving him a coupon for help in the yard or washing his car. This is about actually doing it. Surprise dad and
wash the car inside and out. Pack his lunch for the next day. Take care of a job he always does so he can put his feet up and relax. Bonus points if you bring him some lemonade and cookies!
Explore a Favorite Spot: Does he love a certain hiking trail or beach? Maybe there’s a bookstore that he never has time to meander through or that hardware store that he loves. Even a coffee shop that makes his favorite latte. Find a place you know he enjoys and get him there.
You can have him go on his own if he likes some quiet time to himself or make it a family affair if that’s more his speed. No matter how you do it, just make sure it’s one of his favorite places.
Discover a New Place: It’s easy for parents to get so caught up in the day-to-day that they run out of time for exploring new places. Give Dad the gift of exploration.
Pediatric ENT Patients
Pediatric ENT Patients
Nasal & Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Nasal & Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Allergy Testing & Treatment
Allergy Testing & Treatment
Ear & Mastoid Surgery
Ear & Mastoid Surgery
Thyroid & Salivary Gland Surgery
Thyroid & Salivary Gland Surgery
Airway & Voice Disorders
Airway & Voice Disorders
Cancer of the Head & Neck
Cancer of the Head & Neck
You can go old school and road trip with no plan in mind, but it’s usually better to have a few ideas up your sleeve. Websites like Only In Your State can help you find everything from wacky restaurants, hikes you never knew about, abandoned places, and even road trip trails to take you on an adventure to the state’s best ice cream spots, breweries, and more.
(Dad Edition!): Even dad has a list of things he’d love to do. Sometimes it gets buried under work and baseball practice and goodnight stories. Father’s Day is the perfect time to dust it off!
Get a poster and some markers or create a shared family list on your phone for Dad’s Summer Bucket List. Ask him what he wants to do before summer is over. And it can’t be all work and house things. Make sure he has fun little outings like going to his favorite ice cream shop and some bigger ideas like boogie boarding at the state beach. Even reading through a favorite book or seeing a movie counts! The only requirement: make time for the things on the list. Putting them on the calendar is the key to making them happen.
Favorite Foods: From sunup to sundown, fill the day with Dad’s favorite foods. Does he love a Caffè Americano and donuts? Maybe a protein shake from that place across town? How about burgers and fries? Add a milkshake? You got it!
Whatever it is, the day isn’t about what the kids like (sorry kids!).It’s a chance for Dad to eat the things he loves and enjoy every bite. He doesn’t even have to share!
Day: The fun doesn’t have to last for just one day. Make it an overnight or a weekend. Plan a family vacation that you know he’d love. It doesn’t need to be far or expensive (although that resort he’s dreamed about isn’t a terrible idea!). Think about things he loves and start there. Does he love the outdoors? Maybe a campout is a perfect idea (even in the backyard!). Is he a museum guy? Plan an overnight to go to an art installation or even a fun place like the Spy Museum. Whatever dad likes, you can find a place he will enjoy. And the best part? The time you’ll have together!
After five years as a teacher, Rebecca Hastings began working from home in 2015 as a writer and speaker. Since then she has authored three books, written hundreds of articles, and consulted with dozens of clients.
Q I am the managing partner of a family business. We would like to add to our team, but I’m worried we can’t try to hold millennials and Gen Zers to the same standards as other generations without losing them. How do you feel about this?
A. Listen, I’ve got a building full of Gen Zers and millennials — and I love them. If you hire the rights ones, you’re getting people who love calluses on their hands and on their brains. They make the interview process easy too, because there are just two types from these generations: the ones who are unbelievably awesome and the ones who aren’t. But the great ones are not afraid of hard work. They’re passionate, intelligent and mission driven. I mean, they’ll charge the gates of hell with water pistols for something they believe in.
But that means you have to provide meaning in the work they do. They want to see that their work connects to something that matters. They want to be treated with dignity, not like units of production. And they have inquiring minds. Most of them want to know why you do things the way you do them. All that is perfectly okay with me and always has been.
Now, they’re the worst two generations to work for someone who’s just a boss. That’s because bosses push while leaders pull. If you’re going to pull, you have to inform, communicate and share a vision that draws people into your mission. Bosses, for the most part, have a “do it this way because I said so” attitude. That’s not going to last long with Gen Zers and millennials.
I get where you’re coming from though. I’ve still got friends and business associates who tell me we’re going to
lose everyone from these generations if we don’t cave in and give them things like “the flexibility to work from home” — which really means, “I don’t want to work much” or “I want to work all the time.” Listen, I understand not everyone who works from home falls into one of those two categories, but some of them do. There are folks who put in 80 hours a week because they can’t put their screens down and live a life. Or they work three hours a day and call it “working from home.” That’s not working from home — that’s working part-time hours for full-time pay. And that’s called stealing.
But millennials and Gen Zers? They are, for the most part, genuine, real people and hard workers. If you give them what you should as a leader, they’ll blow you away with their smarts and what they’re capable of achieving!
Are you one of those parents who wonder if your child’s schedule is too crowded? Do you watch him play video games by the hour and get a little nervous about the long-term effects? Do you wish she had time to “just play” rather than run from school to lessons to team practices?
If you can relate to the above situations, you’re in good company. Take a deep breath. Remember how it used to be when children played freely without a lot of oversight and adult intervention. Can you recall the days when you scraped your knee and just got up and kept playing? When you could sit under a tree and inspect the intricacies of the natural world? When you could dig and build with natural objects? When it seemed there was all the time in the world to just be?
Today’s children need those same healthy, authentic play experiences. They need time to explore the out of doors, time to think and dream. Time to wonder and experiment.
How to begin? It’s easier than you might think. Just unplug and send the kids outside. They won’t need an agenda or directions. Once they find themselves in the great outdoors, they’ll do the rest. Here are eight benefits of unstructured, outdoor play.
Today’s kids are steeped in a virtual world. They’re adept at computer use, coding, programming and the like, and that’s fine. They need to understand the technological world. But they also need authentic, handson experiences that can’t be had in a classroom or computer lab. They need to be grounded in the real world and able to engage in real-life experiences. They need to do real-time observation, exploration and interaction with the real world. They need the sensory experiences of watching a bird find a worm, of tracking the tiny veins and capillaries on
self-created games and make up their own rules. They need to learn how to try and fail and try again to make their play creations work.
Children need to know how to listen and follow directions in the classroom and in other activities such as sports. But they also need the opportunity to play independent. They need to decide to create something or explore something and then make their own plan. They need to cooperate with others to follow the rules to their own kid-made games. They need the freedom to adapt rules to their current situation and then evaluate whether or not their plan worked. All of these skills are strengthened when kids are allowed to play outside independently.
We all know the statistics on the overall health of today’s kids. Too many are overweight and unfit. Too many are lethargic and uninspired. In short, many of our kids don’t move enough to be happy and healthy. But knowing isn’t the same as doing. Parents need to push through a bit of resistance and insist that our children go outside whether it’s for time in their own backyard or access to a larger natural environment. While parks can offer some of the necessary ingredients to healthier play, wilder natural environments such as hiking trails or woodlands are even better. Nothing inspires kids to build forts and create their own games more than an untouched-by-man setting.
beaks of their hatchlings. Wandering a beach, picking up beautiful shells or bits of driftwood, smelling the scent of grasses on a warm summer day. We all need opportunities to absorb the wonder of nature and to experience the joy of being part of the natural world. Give your kids the chance to do these simple things. They’ll benefit immensely.
Some schools are experimenting with longer recesses and more frequent breaks in their school day and, wonder of wonders, every one of them reports better behavior and engagement in the classroom. When kids are given enough time to move and play, they’re better able to focus their attention on classroom work. They feel better, they perform better. It’s not rocket science. In other studies, it’s reported that children who play more outside get a better night’s sleep. A wellrested child is better able to focus attention and “get into” lessons in class. Children who get enough chances for active play feel more content and happy. Happier kids have lower levels of stress which produces better classroom performance.
We like it when our children are able to follow directions—when they’re “coachable,” and that is an important skill. But it’s also important for kids to learn how to operate via their own internal rules and understandings. Children benefit when they’re able to manage their own behaviors based on their convictions, when they can make a plan and follow it through. When they can try and fail and try again to accomplish a task. All of these skills can only be practiced when kids have the chance to engage in unstructured play free of adult supervision and oversight. It may be hard to break the pattern of over-managing our kids’ lives, but it’s vital that we do so.
If you’ve ever watched a group of kids play a game of softball you might see more arguing about the rules than actual play. But what you’re seeing is social skills in the making. Older kids will make the rules and try to enforce them. Quieter kids will be given chances to play (or not) and bossy kids will try to run the show. In the middle of the chaos, children will learn how the world of rules works and they’ll play a little ball too. When children are free of adult supervision, they build leadership skills and learn to work as a community. Is it pretty? Not always, but there are always lessons learned. In some of the school where increased free play has been introduced with fewer rules and the attitude of “safe enough,” the children earlier seen as bullies have emerged as leaders. Why? Because they’ve been successful in more active, hands-on play and have been given the chance to expend pent-up energy in all-out activity.
The rise in mental health problems amongst kids as young as pre-school is a testament to our over-managed, over-tested and earlier to learn environment. The skills that used to be taught in first grade must now be mastered in Kindergarten. The results are children with a too-hurried and too stressful world. There will always be expectations in the learning world, but for those children who enjoy more free time, more authentic outdoor fun and more opportunity to run and play, the better they’ll feel about themselves and their life. We give our children a great gift when we encourage and champion free play in the great out of doors.
Downtown OWA
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100 N OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535
Just outside the theme park gates, enjoy shopping and dining amenities in OWA’s entertainment district! Admission-free Downtown OWA features a plethora of activities, entertainment and events for the whole family.
(251) 923-2111 info@VisitOwa.com www.VisitOWA.com
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1501 S OWA Boulevard Foley, AL 36535
Tropic Falls is a combination unlike anything the Gulf Coast has ever seen before! Enjoy 23 rides and attractions at the Tropic Falls Theme Park and explore a year-round tropical paradise in the Tropic Falls Indoor Waterpark with 75-foot-tall slides beneath a convertible glass roof. Just outside is the all-new wave pool, Big Water Bay, with surf simulator, Coastal Curl.
(251) 923-2111 www.visitowa.com/destinations/ tropic-falls-at-owa
Adventure Island
24559 Perdido Beach Blvd Orange Beach, AL
Go-karts, bumper boats, laser tag, adventure golf, arcade games and paddle-boat rides. Kiddie rides available. Open year round.
(251) 974-1500 www.adventure-island.com
Alabama Animal Safari Park
1664 Venable Road Hope Hull , AL 36043
Drive through our safari park in your vehicle and feed the animals through your windows! Spend an hour, or stay the day!
(334) 288-2105 www.alabamasafaripark.com
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
20499 Oak Road East Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Join the Adventure! Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Feed a giraffe, enjoy animal adventures and presentations, ride the Zipline! Open daily 9am-4pm
(251) 256-7008 www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.com
Alligator Alley
19950 Highway 71 Summerdale, AL 36580
Start your guided adventure with a walk, where you can see alligators from hatchlings to mature adults, relaxing, sunbathing, courting and nesting along with other natural inhabitants such as turtles, ospreys, owls and bull frogs only a couple feet away!
(251) 946-2483 www.gatoralleyfarm.com
Coastal Segway Adventures
21101 State Highway 135 Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Two-hour guided Segway tours through the Backcountry Trail. Kayak tours as well as paddle board, kayak and biking rentals. Please call or visit our website to reserve a tour.
(251) 509-8687 www.coastalsegwayadventures.com
Creekside Mini Golf & Arcade
20868 County Road 20 Foley, AL 36535
Two challenging 18 hole courses to choose from! (251) 451-4653 www.creeksideminigolf.net
Fairhope Skate Park
701 Volanta Avenue Fairhope, AL 36532 fairhopeal.gov/community/parks-recreation/skate-park
Fairways of Fairhope Disc Golf
805 N Greeno Rd Fairhope, AL 36532 Disc Golf course www.facebook.com/fairwaysoffairhope
Fast Eddie’s Fun Center
505 West Michigan Avenue Pensacola, FL 32505
Enjoy Fast NEW Go-Karts, a Tropical Mini-Golf Course, our NEW attraction: Construction Zone, Take a swing at our Strike Zone Batting Cages or Cool off in our Large Arcade!
(850) 433-7735 www.fasteddiesfuncenter.com
Ferris Wheel
23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561
It’s a landmark for every Gulf Coast beach vacation. Day or night, that first glimpse of The Wharf’s Ferris wheel — one of the tallest in the Southeast — means you’ve arrived. With the tree-top views and gulf breezes, it’s a favorite way to make memories during your stay!
(251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com
Foley Skate Park
300 W Roosevelt Ave Foley, AL 36535
6,000 square foot Skate Park
(251) 213-6190 visitfoley.com/listing/foley-skate-park/
Gulf Shores Skate Park
2008 West 3rd Street Gulf Shores, AL 36542
The Gulf Shores Skate park is a 6500 square foot outdoor facility with 10 concrete modular skate ramps designed for beginner through advanced skaters. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
(251) 968-1420 gulfshoresal.gov/1231/Skateboard-Park
LuLu’s Beach Arcade & Ropes Course
200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Come check out LuLu’s Beach Arcade and LuLu’s Ropes Courses – The Mountain of Youth & Munchkin Mountain!
(251) 967-5858 www.lulubuffett.com/gulf-shores
Park & Splash Pad
11101 County Road 64 Daphne, AL 36526
The Splash Pad hours are Monday-Friday 10am3pm. We have a park, walking trail and basketball. (251) 621-9555 (Ext.535) www.coastalchurch.tv/cafe
Pirates Island Golf
3201 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Adventure golf experience for all ages. Please call or check our website for hours and pricing. (251) 968-4653 www.piratesislandgolf.com
Shrimpy’s Mini Golf & Ice Cream
204 East 2nd Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Come play a round or two of putt-putt golf on our 18-hole Fishing Village mini golf course and experience the LARGEST shrimp in the Southeast! (251) 948-6464 www.shrimpysgulfshores.com
SPECTRA Laser Light Experience
23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561
The Wharf’s SPECTRA Laser Light Experience incorporates sophisticated choreographed lighting effects with state-of-the-art lasers and popular surround-sound music, delivering a truly unique entertainment experience. Free shows take place on Main Street every night at 8:30, 9 and 9:30 pm. (251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com
Tanger Mini Golf
2601 South McKenzie Street Foley, AL 36535 Call or stop by Shopper Services to start your round of mini golf!
(251) 943-9303 www.tangeroutlets.com
The Factory of Gulf Shores
18948 Oak Road West Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Trampolines, arcade games, flight simulator, birthday parties, open jump, teen night and more. Visit us online for updates.
(251) 202-0900 www.thefactorygulfshores.com
The Track
3200 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, AL 36542
The Track in Gulf Shores features fun for the whole family with six go-kart tracks, mini golf, blaster boats, Kids Country rides, the Skycoaster, Spinning Coaster, Fat Daddy’s Arcade and more!
(251) 270-0209 www.funatthetrack.com
The Wharf – Hot Wharf Summer
23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561
Hot Wharf Summer - treasure hunts, live bands, weekly fireworks, kids activities + so much more! (251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com
The Wharf Express
23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561
All aboard–choo choo! The Wharf Express will take you for a fun ride around Main Street to explore the
sights and sounds of The Wharf! Each ride costs $6 per person (3 years and under ride free).
(251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com
Tiki’s Bikes, Boats & Beach Rentals
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
We have beach bikes, e-bikes, paddleboards, pontoon boats, beach chairs, umbrellas, beach carts and coolers delivered FREE directly to your vacation accommodation in the Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan areas.
(251) 240-0506 www.tikibikeshack.com
Town of Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights
End of Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL 36528
West End Beach start Memorial Day weekend. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm).
(251) 861-5525 www.townofdauphinisland.org
Town of Dauphin Island Sunday Sunset Concerts
Dauphin Island, AL 36528
2023-Sunset Concerts-the popular Sunset Concert series will start April 30. Concert dates: April 30, May 28, June 25, July 30, Sept. 4 & Oct. 9. (251) 861-5525 www.townofdauphinisland.org
Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway
13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL 36576
Wales West offers a Water Slide, Waterfall, fresh lake, Sandy Beach, Swimming, Shady deck for picnicking, Indoor Pool, Playground, Train Rides at 2 and 4 PM. (888) 569-5337 www.waleswest.com
Eastern Shore Art Center
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401 Oak Street Fairhope, AL 36532
The Eastern Shore Art Center connects people of all ages and abilities with the arts through educa-
tion, exhibitions and outreach activities. Sign up for our newsletter and join us on Facebook. Gallery hours: Tues-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-6pm (251) 928-2228 info@esartcenter.org www.esartcenter.org
Alabama Gulf Coast Music Hall
12615 Foley Beach Express Foley, AL 36535
Musical events and dinner shows featuring local and national artists. Venue rental available for large and small groups & special events with catering available.
(251) 978-2462 www.alabamagulfcoastmusichall.com
Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach
26389 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561
Offering classes, workshops, and camps to all ages and skill levels. Call visit us online or sign up for our newsletter to catch upcoming program information.
(251) 981-2787 www.orangebeachal.gov/324/About
Coastal Makers Art Studio
20764 Barbara Lane Robertsdale, AL 36567
Coastal Makers allows anyone and any age to express their creativity through a variety of mediums, tools, textiles & techniques in a fun mess-making environment!
(251) 455-2909 www.coastalmakers.com
Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes
335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL 36532
Create some summer fun and join our activity classes! Classes usually last 30 minutes to an hour. Please visit Facebook or Instagram for class schedule.
(251) 928-1720 www.fantasyislandtoys.com
Foley Art Center
211 North McKenzie Street Foley, AL 36535 Visit us on Facebook for events and activities.
(251) 943-4381 www.foleyartcenter.com
Home Depot Home Depot offers kids projects & crafts. www.homedepot.com
Michael’s at Eastern Shore Centre
10200 Eastern Shore Blvd Spanish Fort, AL 36527
Join us for FREE classes, demos and other events in store or from the comfort of your home.
(251) 621-2686 www.michaels.com
Paint Party Studios
101-E South OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535
Join us in Downtown OWA (open daily 11-6), we have a paint party area and a retail store featuring Local Art, Arty Gifts and Make & Take Art Kits for all ages. (251) 343-2423 www.paintpartystudios.com
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155 South Section Street Fairhope, AL 36532
FUMC Christian Life Center is open Monday-Friday 8:00am–5:00pm. We have a walking track, fitness room, game room and more. Open to the Public! (251) 928-1148 www.fairhopeumc.org
OWA Theater
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205 N. OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535
OWA Theater is the centerpiece of Downtown OWA’s entertainment offerings. OWA Theater hosts sellout events year-round, from Halloween Horror Shows to productions like Christian Comedy
Fest and Menopause the Musical. State-of-the-art sound, lighting and seating make for a comfortable & memorable venue—and adult beverages are available for purchase!
(251) 369-6100 www.visitowa.com
AMC Theatres
23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561
Come catch the biggest movie events of the year on the biggest screens in town
(251) 981-4444 www.amctheatres.com/movietheatres/pensacola-mobile/amc-classic-wharf-15
Arena - Next Level Laser Tag/Bazooka Ball
23101 Canal Road, Suite M-201 Orange Beach, AL 36561
Visit us for great entertainment for all ages! Perfect for birthday parties, civic outings and family vacations. We offer laser tag, arcade games and bazooka ball for all ages.
(251) 224-5297 www.arenaorangebeach.com
Brandon Styles Showroom at OWA
101-H S OWA Boulevard Foley, AL 36535
Featuring a lineup of ever-changing acts and shows, from family-friendly to date night, the quick-witted Brandon Styles will have you doubling over in your chair.
(251) 237-3330 www.brandonstyles.com
Breakout Orange Beach
23101 Canal Road, Suite L-208 Orange Beach, AL 36561
Work together to solve puzzles, crack codes and find hidden items in order to escape in under an hour! Each game is a real-life escape room adventure for small groups of friends, family or coworkers. Take team building to a whole new level!
(251) 929-8330 www.breakoutgames.com/ orange-beach
Clash eSports & VR Experience
101-G North OWA Boulevard Foley, AL 36535
Offering Virtual Reality, PC, Xbox, PS4, PS5 and Nintendo Switch gaming. Pay to play your favorite games and the newest games, all on the market’s newest and fastest equipment.
(251) 257-1400 www.clashesportsowa.com
CMX Pinnacle 14
3780 Gulf Shores Pkwy Gulf Shores, AL 36542
(251) 923-0100 www.cmxcinemas.com/Location detail/Pinnacle-14-Cinemas
Cool Shots Selfie Museum
23101 Canal Road, Suite N-207 Orange Beach, AL 36561
The Cool Shots Selfie Museum opened in 2021 and brings a very popular concept to The Wharf. With over 50 “Instagrammable,” interactive and cool scenes, backdrops and exhibits, all are invited into a unique world of visual coolness. And YES! TikTok awesomeness, too.
(251) 978-6940 www.myselfiemuseum.com
Eastern Shore Lanes
10460 Eastern Shore Blvd Spanish Fort, AL 36527 Bowling, laser tag, arcade games, high ropes course, clip and climb, golf simulator, birthday parties and more.
(251) 625-3400 www.eslanes.com
Fairways Indoor Golf Club
25000 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, AL 36527 Fairways houses high definition golf simulators in which players use real clubs and balls to enrich their golf experience no matter what skill or commitment level to the sport of golf.
(251) 621-5277 www.fairwaysindoorgolfclub.com
Fat Daddy’s Arcade
24565 Perdido Beach Boulevard
Orange Beach, AL 36561
Fat Daddy’s Arcade is one of the area’s top attractions for family friendly entertainment, featuring more than 80 arcade games, great prizes, pizza and drinks.
(251) 980-1050 www.fatdaddysarcade.com
Hot Wheels Skate Center
616 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, AL 36526
Roller skating, birthday parties, private parties, after school care, day camps in summer and holidays. Full service concessions, arcade games, pro-shop and Free Wifi. Skate schedules and pricing on our website and Facebook page.
(251) 626-5120 www.hotwheelsdaphne.com
Humdingers Virtual Reality Lounge
30500 State Hwy 181 Spanish Fort, AL 36527
The fun is non-stop at Humdingers, with VR, games, escape rooms, food, and activities for all ages.
(251) 303-2557 www.humdingersvr.com
Jumpin’ Jellybeans The Boutique Play Space
30500 State Hwy 181, (Suite 424)
Spanish Fort, AL 36527
Indoor play space for ages 0-10 years. Visit us on Facebook for updates.
(251) 626-0007 www.jumpinjellybeansspanishfort.com
Jurassic Golf
3800 Gulf Shores Pkwy Suite 142
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Welcome to Alabama’s Glow-in-the-Dark Dinosaur Adventure! Featuring 18 holes of prehistoric Family Fun!
(251) 948-0227 www.jurassicgolfgs.com
Outer Limits VR
23101 Canal Road, Suite N-101
Orange Beach, AL 36561
Outer Limits is the ultimate virtual reality arcade. It features five fully immersive rides that offer both single and multiplayer options for you to experience on your own or grab a group of your friends and ride them together. Outer Limits gives you the unimaginable experience of VR gaming along with the thrill of each game. Explore the experience that awaits you. We’ll see you on the other side. (Ages 7+ only)
(251) 240-0647 www.vrfunplays.com
The Axe 23101 Canal Road, Suite G-201
Orange Beach, AL 36561
Whether you want to channel your inner lumberjack or you just want to try out a new competitive hobby, axe throwing (a.k.a. hatchet throwing) is a fun, unique sport that’s taking North America by storm. It’s a great way to celebrate a special occasion, organize a team building event, or simply have a fun time with family and friends!
(251) 202-3099 www.civilaxethrowing.com
The Gulf Bowl
2881 South Juniper Street Foley, AL 36535 Bowling, arcade games, restaurant, pool room, ropes course, laser tag, birthday parties and more. Ask about our summer programs.
(251) 943-4575 www.gulfbowl.com
Tortuga Adventure Golf, LLC
30500 State Highway 181, (Ste. 230) Spanish Fort, AL 36527
Indoor blacklight adventure golf that takes the players on a journey through the pirate island of Tortuga in the Caribbean.
(251) 626-6221 www.tortugaadventuregolf.com
Urban Air Adventure Park
31000 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, AL 36527 Wall-to-wall trampoline arenas, Dodgeball Courts, Stunt Airbag, Slam Dunk Tracks, Runway Tumble Track, The Tubes Obstacle Course, Urban Warrior Course™ and Warrior Battle Beam. Indoor Ropes Course, Indoor Climbing Walls, Pro Zone Performance Trampoline Pit and Urban Air Sky Rider Indoor Coaster. Enjoy the arcade or a meal at the Urban Cafe. Birthday party packages available.
(256) 269-3213 www.urbanairtrampolinepark.com
VRium Robotics & Virtual Reality
Amusement Park
30500 State Hwy. 181, Unit: 300 Spanish Fort, AL 36527
We offer over 20 different types of VR (Virtual Reality)and AR (Augmented Reality) experiences for all ages, multiplayer games, 7D Interactive Cinema, and our very own robots.
(855) 874-8624 www.vriumpark.com
Craft Farms Golf Resort – Cypress Bend & Cotton Creek
3840 Cotton Creek Circle Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Offering 2 public courses with 36 Holes of Palmer Golf award-winning courses. Development Programs, private and individual lessons.
(251) 968-3002 www.craftfarms.com
Glenlakes Golf Club
9530 Clubhouse Drive Foley, AL 36535
GlenLakes Golf Club features 27 holes of unforgettable golf. The 18-hole, links-style, Dunes-Vista course and the 9-hole resort-style Lakes layout provide a golf experience second to none.
(251) 955-1220 www.glenlakesgolf.com
Gulf Shores Golf Club
520 Clubhouse Drive Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Open to the public with memberships available. The Clubhouse offers dining and a Pro Shop. Visit our Facebook page for updates.
(251) 968-7366 www.gulfshoresgolfclub.com
Lake Forest Golf Course
1 Golf Terrace Daphne, AL 36526
An 18-Hole Golf Course, driving range with chipping and putting green. Call or come by the pro shop for summer program information.
(251) 626-0788 www.lakeforestdaphne.com
Orange Beach Golf Center
4700 Easy Street Orange Beach, AL 36561
Practice your driving, putting, chipping, long and short game. Follow our Facebook page for summer program information for all ages.
(251) 981-4653 www.facebook.com/OBGolfCenter
Quail Creek Golf Course
19841 Quail Creek Drive Fairhope, AL 36532
An 18 hole golf course. Snack bar, club fitting, driving range, putting and chipping areas. For tee times & fees, call the pro shop.
(251) 990-0240 www.fairhopeal.gov/services/quailcreek-golf-course
Rock Creek Golf
140 Clubhouse Drive Fairhope, AL 36532
Rock Creek is best known as a fun, player-friendly course for locals..
(251) 928-4223 www.rockcreekgolf.com
Soldiers Creek Golf Club
28341 Preserve Trail Elberta, AL 36530
Test your accuracy with our fairways, water hazards and sand traps. 18-hole course. Challenge and improve your game. Call the pro shop for program information.
(251) 986-8633 www.soldierscreekgolfcourse.com
Timber Creek Golf Course
9650 Timber Creek Boulevard Daphne, AL 36526
A 27-hole Championship Layout, Full Service Restaurant, First Class Practice Facilities. Check with the pro shop for summer program information.
(251) 621-9900 www.golftimbercreek.com
Granato Stables @ Lake Forest Stables
268 Equine Circle Daphne, AL 36526
Looking for a great family outing? Come on by our Horse Farm! Granato Stables @ Lake Forest Stables is a family friendly farm. We offer riding lessons, trail rides, birthday parties and more.
(757) 288-3002 www.lakeforeststables.fun/
Riverside Ranch
26061 Monsanto Road Loxley, AL 36551
Boarding, Leasing, Lessons, Trail Rides, Sunday Funday, and More. Services are by appointment/ reservation only.
(251) 263-3700 www.facebook.com/riversideranchal/
Wild Hawk Ranch, LLC
24080 JD Waters Lane Robertsdale, AL 36567 Horseback Riding or Horse Training lessons on our horses at our place or we can come to your property. Baldwin County (Robertsdale, Loxley, Foley, Bay Minette) and Pensacola areas. (850) 418-3684 www.wildhawkranch.com
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32 South Section Street Fairhope, AL 36532 Story Time (Wednesdays - 10:00am), author events, books, greeting cards, journals, and novelty merchandise. Purchase a coffee or tea from Latte Da or visit The Book Cellar. Visit us on Facebook!
(251) 928-5295 books@pageandpalette.com
www.pageandpalette.com
Bay Minette Public Library
Bay Minette, AL 36507
Summer Reading Program is back, every Tuesday from June 6-July 18 at 1:00pm at the John F. Rhodes Civic Center. Program schedule: June 6: Tom Foolery–Juggling and Unicycles, June 13: I Believe in Magic–Illusions and Fun, June 20: Animal Tales–Live Animals, June 27: Freedom Ranch–Free Flying Birds, July 11: Cowboy Bruce Brannen–A Favorite Returns and July 18: Michelle’s Magic Poodles–Real Dogs
(251) 580-1648 www.cityofbayminette.org/Library
Daphne Public Library
2607 US Highway 98 Daphne, AL 36526
Summer reading kickoff-June 2, 9:30am-2:30pm, Tuesday Big Shows-10:30 June 13, 20, 27. July 11, 18. Wednesday shows-June 21-2:00pm , July
12-1:00pm.
(251) 620-2500 (Ext. 2508) www.daphnelibrary.org
Elberta Public Library
13062 Main Street Elberta, AL 36530
Call or visit our Facebook page.
(251) 986-3069 www.facebook.com/elbertalibrary
Fairhope Public Library
501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL 36532
Visit our website for summer activities and programs for kids, teens and adults.
(251) 929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org
Foley Public Library
319 East Laurel Avenue Foley, AL 36535
Visit our website or Facebook page for events, activities and updates.
(251) 943-7665 www.foleylibrary.org
Loxley Public Library
1001 Loxley Avenue Loxley, AL 36551
Visit us on Facebook. Stop by or call for summer events and programs.
(251) 964-5695 www.facebook.com/Loxley PublicLibrary
Magnolia Springs Public Library
12440 Magnolia Ave Magnolia Springs, AL 36555
Visit our website or Facebook page for events, activities and updates.
(251) 965-2305 www.magnoliaspringslibrary.org
Marjorie Younce Snook Public Library
202 W Broadway Avenue Summerdale, AL 36580
2023 Summer Reading Program held on Tuesday mornings in June from 10:00am-12:00pm. Each program will feature live entertainment, a reader from the community, Arts & Crafts and refreshments.
(251) 989-2011 www.summerdalelibrary.com
Orange Beach Public Library
26267 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561
Summer Reading Kickoff Party-June 3 10:3012:00pm, performances Thursdays at 2:00pm in June/July. Stop by the library or visit our website for summer activity schedules.
(251) 981-2923 www.orangebeachlibrary.org
Robertsdale Public Library
18301 Pennsylvania St Robertsdale, AL 36567
(251) 947-8960 www.robertsdale.org/library
Silverhill Oscar Johnson Memorial Library
21967 6th Street Silverhill, AL 36576
(251) 945-5201 www.silverhillalabama.com/ services/#library
Spanish Fort Public Library
7361 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, AL 36527
Summer Reading Kickoff Celebration - June 6, 9:30am-3:00pm at Spanish Fort Community Center-enjoy entertainment, crafts, face painting
and much more. Free summer fun and activities all summer-library events schedule available on our website and social media pages. (251) 410-READ (7323) librarian@cityofspanishfort. com www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
Thomas B. Norton Public Library
221 West 19th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Summer Reading Program, “All Together Now” kicks off June 9th at 10:30am!! Programs will be held at the Gulf Shores Adult Activity Center. All ages are welcome and all programs are FREE to the public. Visit Facebook for activity listings (251) 968-1176 thomasbnortonlibrary@gmail.com www.gulfshoresal.gov/924/Library
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34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, AL 36527
Bring the whole family and enjoy more than 16 miles of trails, educational programs, boat cruises, cabins, RV spots and primitive camping. Other events: Be a part of the “100 Alabama Miles Challenge” kickoff June 24, Auburn University Raptor Center for two special educational programs: July 15, 10:30am, 11:30am.
(251) 626-0798 office@blakeleypark.com www.blakeleypark.com
Memorial Park
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2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL 36602
You’ll walk the decks of the Mighty A, our WWII battleship. Explore the decks and see how sailors lived aboard this floating city. Learn about the USS DRUM, the oldest submarine on public display. See over 30 historic airplanes, vehicles, tanks, a B-25 Mitchell Bomber, and a super-secret spy plane.
(251) 433-2703 info@ussalabama.com www.ussalabama.com
Colonial Fort Condé
150 South Royal Street Mobile, AL 36602
Explore the stories of Mobile’s past under French, British, Spanish and American rule at Colonial Fort
Conde. Admission is included with admission into the History Museum of Mobile.
(251) 544-5480 www.historymuseumofmobile.com/ colonial-fort-conde/
Exploreum Science Center
65 Government Street Mobile, AL 36604
8,500-square-foot, hands-on discovery science center with a state-of-the-art PCI Digital Dome Theater. The Exploreum is an education based attraction focused on STEM learning.
(251) 208-6893 www.exploreum.com
Fairhope Museum of History
24 North Section Street Fairhope, AL 36532
Exhibits of Fairhope’s history including Fairhope’s founders, the Single Tax theory, town jail, Jubilee phenomenon and many other displays.
(251) 929-1471 www.fairhopeal.gov/departments/ museum
Flight Works Alabama
2000 Aerospace Dr Mobile, AL 36615
Explore dozens of interactive exhibits that trace the history of aviation, explain the science of flight, and place you in the pilot seat! Airbus tours, workshops, field trips, and more await you at FWA!
(251) 512-2320 www.flightworksalabama.com
Foley Railroad Museum
125 East Laurel Avenue Foley, AL 36535
The Depot Museum displays history of the city and the railroad in Foley. Model Train exhibit and trackless train ride. Please visit our website for days and hours.
(251) 943-1818 www.foleyrailroadmuseum.com
Fort Gaines
51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Battle site of Battle of the Bay in 1864. See the battlements and soldiers’ living quarters, used from 1800’s-1946. Lots of fun for families and kids! (251) 861-6992 www.townofdauphinisland.org
GulfQuest
155 South Water Street Mobile, AL 36602
With over 90 interactive exhibits, simulators, displays and theaters, GulfQuest is a place you’ll want to visit often.
(251) 436-8901 www.gulfquestmuseum.com
Holmes Medical Museum
111 West Laurel Avenue Foley, AL 36535
Step back to 1930s & 40s and see the first clinic & 10 bed hospital in Baldwin County. Self guided tours, free admission.
(251) 970-1818 www.facebook.com/HolmesMedi calMuseum
Naval Aviation Museum
1750 Radford Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32508
Explore the world’s largest Naval Aviation mu and one of the most-visited museums in the state of Florida. See more than 150 beautifully restored aircraft. Open daily and admission is free. Important Visitor Information- at the time of print, The National Naval Aviation Museum is open Monday through Sunday from 9 am – 4 pm to current Department of Defense (DoD) ID cardholders. There are certain public access dates, find these on our Facebook page. We have established a special visitor infor mation line at 850-452-8450 for answers to your questions about visiting the museum.
(850) 452-2894 www.navalaviationmuseum.org
Orange Beach History Museum
25805 John Snook Dr Orange Beach, AL 36561
Built in 1910 as a schoolhouse and now houses local, Native American artifacts and fishing memorabilia. View collectibles from the early days of the fishing industry. Open Tuesday - Thursday, 9 am - 4 pm
(251) 981-8545 www.orangebeachal.gov
Swift-Coles Historic Home
17424 Swift-Coles Ln Bon Secour, AL 36511
Swift-Coles Historic Home - Please be sure to check our Facebook page for updated hours and private events.
(251) 949-5550 www.SwiftColesHistoricHome.com
The History Museum of Mobile
111 South Royal Street Mobile, AL 36602
The History Museum of Mobile is an educational and entertaining destination for both adults and children. As you explore the museum’s galleries, interesting artifacts and fascinating stories will appear around every corner.
(251) 208-7508 www.museumofmobile.com
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24037 Perdido Beach Blvd Orange Beach, AL 36561 Butterfly garden, rock climbing, biking, jogging, walking, wildlife, geocaching and more! Trail maps, locations and tour information available
ADCNR Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries
Hunting, fishing, youth programs, family events, canoe trails, outdoor activities and state regulations. www.outdooralabama.com
Alabama Birding Trails
Discover a variety of feathered visitors and yearround residents. Visit our website for a list of trails, convention centers and activities. www.alabamabirdingtrails.com
Beach Bike Rentals
4 Market Street Orange Beach, AL 36561
To provide a fun and safe opportunity to experience the Gulf Coast on a bike. Our customer focused rentals and options are designed to be simple and fun to use and enjoy.
(251) 968-1770 www.beachbikerentalsorangebeach.com
Bicycle Trails
The Baldwin County Trailblazers advocate for improved and expanded walking and biking opportunities in Baldwin County, Alabama. Visit our website for a list of trails. www.baldwincountytrailblazers.org
Birding Trails
Visit our website for a list of trails. (251) 626-5474 www.alabamacoastalbirdingtrail.com
Five Rivers Delta Resource Center
30945 Five Rivers Blvd Spanish Fort, AL 36527
5 Rivers is your gateway to the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Open 7 days per week and free to the public, the facility features live animals and exhibits highlighting Alabama’s rich natural resources. (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com
Weeks Bay Plantation
12562 Mary Ann Beach Rd Fairhope, AL 36532
Seasonal blueberry picking, vegetables, and more. Concerts, cook offs, family fun, and more. www.weeksbayplantation.com
Weeks Bay Reserve
11300 U.S. Highway 98 Fairhope, AL 36532
Take time to explore a local natural treasure. Bring family and friends to enjoy our Visitor Center, boardwalks and trails that provide overlooks of beautiful Weeks Bay. (251) 928-9792 www.weeksbayreserve.com
Dauphin Island Park & Beach
Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Many activities to choose from such as the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, Boating, Camping, Fishing,
Gulf State Park & Nature Center
20115 State Highway 135 Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Kayak and paddleboard rentals, Fishing, and bike rentals, parasailing, beach services, Geocaching, camps and weekly activities for everyone. Visit our website for activity calendar.
(251) 948-7275 www.alapark.com/gulf-state-park
Meaher State Park
5200 Battleship Pkwy E Spanish Fort, AL 36527 Day-use, picnicking, camping hook-ups, boat ramp and fishing pier. Self-guided nature trails with boardwalk.
(251) 626-5529 www.alapark.com/parks/ meaher-state-park
Spanish Fort Town Center Park & Splash Pad
29000 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, AL 36527 Pavilion, splash pad, and more. Please call or check our website for splash pad hours.
(214) 561-8884 www.spanishforttowncenter.com
Bay Minette Recreation Complex
611 McMeans Avenue Bay Minette, AL 36507
Classes, sports and more. Seasonal city league basketball, softball, soccer, football and youth cheerleading.
(251) 580-2546 www.cityofbayminette.org/
Recreation-Department
Bounds Family YMCA
8051 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, AL 36526
Promoting healthy kids, families and communities by offering activities and programs for wellness and family fun in a Christ centered environment.
(251) 626-0888 www.ysal.org
Daphne Recreation Center
2605 US Highway 98 Daphne, AL 36526
Visit our website and view the parks and recreation section, or find us on Facebook for updates to hours, programs and guidelines.
(251) 620-2700 www.daphneal.com
David L. Bodenhamer Recreation Center
310 West 19th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Instructional classes, water aerobics, lifeguard certification, group lessons, swim teams and recreation programs. Call or visit us online for schedules, membership and activity updates.
(251) 968-1420 www.gulfshoresal.gov/recreation
Fairhope Rec Center
803 North Greeno Road Fairhope, AL 36532
Fitness rooms, classes, spin, gymnasium, racquetball court, walking track, activity room, sauna, dressing facilities, and nursery. Membership information available online or at the Rec Center.
(251) 928-7270 www.cofairhope.com
Foley Recreation Center
121 North Alston Street Foley, AL 36535
We offer a wide range of activities, parks and sports programs, swimming, tennis, and more. Visit us on Facebook for current hours and updates.
(251) 970-5020 www.foleyrecreation.com
Orange Beach Rec Center
4849 Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach, AL 36561 Gymnasium, fitness room, multipurpose, teen and game rooms.
(251) 981-6028 www.obparksandrec.com/recreationcenter.html
Eastern Shore Aquatics Center - ESAC
Swim programs for all ages & abilities. Visit our website for Lessons or to join SWAT.
(251) 300-0820 www.swimforswat.com
Fairhope Rec Center Pool
803 North Greeno Road Fairhope, AL 36532
Fairhope Recreation Center & Municipal Pool is a membership based community center. Swim lessons, Swim team, party rental.
(251) 990-0175 www.cofairhope.com
Foley Recreation Swim
300 West Roosevelt Street Foley, AL 36535
Swim lessons offered throughout the summer at Max Griffin Pool. Summer swim programs, teams, hours, pricing and schedules are listed on our website.
(251) 943-7946 www.foleyrecreation.com/swimming
Lake Forest Swim
197 Country Club Drive Daphne, AL 36526
Ages 3-18, Swimmers start as early as the age of three and some continue with the team until the age of eighteen. Children of all ages are allowed to participate in competitive swimming events based on ability. If a child requires one on one training, many of the assistant coaches are available for personal coaching.
(251) 626-0788 www.lakeforestswim.swimtopia.com
Orange Beach Aquatics Center
4853 Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach, AL 36561
Junior olympic swimming pool, diving well, tube slide and wading pool with spray and waterfall. Swimming lessons, water aerobics and more. Currently open to members only. Check our website for changes to our policy and hours.
(251) 974-7946 www.orangebeachal.gov/224/ Aquatics-Center
City of Foley Recreation Tennis
901 North Cedar Street Foley, AL 36535
The City of Foley offers tennis clinics throughout the year and during the Summer for all ages and skill levels.
(251) 970-5020 www.foleyrecreation.com/clinics/ tennis-clinic
George C. Myers Tennis Center
2049 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Pro-shop, 6 soft courts, 12 hard courts and an indoor clubhouse.
(251) 968-1431 www.gulfshoresal.gov/1129/Tennis
Lake Forest Summer Tennis
1 Golf Terrace Daphne, AL 36526
Get your kids involved in Tennis today!
(251) 648-3952 www.uberjuniortennis.com
Mike Ford Tennis Center
600 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL 36532
12 lighted courts, 4 Pickle Ball Courts, Backboard and an outdoor lighted walking track.
(251) 990-9526 www.fairhopeal.gov/community/ sports-complexes/tennis
Orange Beach Tennis Center
4851 Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach, AL 36561
The Tennis Center offers youth, adult and senior adult tennis programs.
(251) 974-6387 www.obparksandrec.com/tenniscenter.html
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906 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Waterville USA offers you 20-acres of fun through our waterpark, amusement park and escape rooms. (251) 948-2106 www.watervilleusa.com
Airboat Adventures
3775 Battleship Pkwy Spanish Fort, AL 36527
Take an Adventure Ride with Airboat Adventures in the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta. Bring the kids, your family, and closest friends!
(251) 680-4477 www.airboatadventures.net
Airboat Express
3733 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort, AL 36527
Take a tour with us and experience a treat for the Whole family! Please call for reservations 24 hours in advance.
(251) 370-7089 www.airboatexpress.com
Alabama Canoe Trails
We offer canoeists and kayakers alike the ability to explore the State’s unique natural resources while providing paddlers with opportunities for both day and over-night trips.
(251) 625-0814 www.alabamacanoetrails.com
Dauphin Island Marina
650 LeMoyne Drive Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Dauphin Island Marina is a full-service marina. We
also charter fishing trips, cruises on the Duke, kayak rentals, souvenirs and other boating supplies.
(251) 861-2201 www.townofdauphinisland.org/ things-to-do/dauphin-island-marina
Delta Explorer Boat Cruises
34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, AL 36527
Explore the areas natural habitat including Delta adventure cruise, Port of Mobile cruise, Civil War on the Eastern Shore, lunch and sunset cruises. Book your adventure online at Blakeleypark.com/ Cruises.
(251) 626-0798 www.blakeleypark.com/Cruises
Dolphin Cruises - Cold Mil Fleet
5749 Bay La Launch Ave Orange Beach, AL 36561
We offer daytime and sunset cruises for groups, private cruises, field trips, birthdays, and more. Visit our website for cruise times, prices and booking.
(251) 943-3510 www.dolphincruises.com
Dolphins Down Under
28101 Perdido Beach Blvd Orange Beach, AL 36561
Dolphin tours, birthday parties, private parties and more. Sunset Trips and other Special Events. Visit our website for booking and excursion descriptions.
(251) 968-4386 www.dolphinsdownunder.net
Down Under Dive Shop
1129 Gulf Shores Pkwy Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Snorkeling Tours, Scuba Instruction, SUP, Kayaking, Scuba certification, CPR, diver rescue, open water courses, excursions and more! Visit us online to book an activity.
(251) 968-3483 www.downunderdiveshop.com
Fairhope Boat Company
702 N Section St Fairhope, AL 36532
Canoes, Kayaks and Sailing Gear. Our experienced staff can answer all your questions from what type of boat to the best locations to see
nature. We also offer guided trips to the Mobile Delta and surrounding areas.
(251) 928-3417 www.facebook.com/FairhopeBoatCompany
Go Go Kayaks
921 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Go Go Kayaks rents kayaks, paddle boards, golf carts, games and more. Best of all? WE DELIVER FUN!
(251) 752-5500 www.gogokayaks.com
Mobile Bay Ferry
51 State Highway 180 Dauphin Island, AL 36528
The Mobile Bay Ferry connects two of the Gulf Coast’s most beautiful and historic landmarks with a safe and scenic experience.
(251) 861-3000 www.mobilebayferry.com
Paddled By You
26448 Cotton Bayou Dr Orange Beach, AL 36561
Family-owned kayak and paddle board rental. Single, double, triple and paddle kayaks and stand up paddle boards available for rent. Please call for pricing.
(251) 752-9250 www.PaddledByYou.com
Pirate Ship Cruises and Alabama Cruises
4575 S Wilson Blvd Orange Beach, AL 36561
Pirate ship cruises, fishing charters, dolphin cruises, pontoon boats, jet ski and kayak rentals, dinner cruises and more. Birthday party packages!
(251) 981-4127 www.hudsonmarina.net
Sailaway Charters
24231 Gulf Bay Road Orange Beach, AL 36561
Offering family type 2 and 3 hour nature cruises (oyster, crab, and, shrimping) or do inshore fishing within protected waters. Please call for booking. Max.6 passengers.
(251) 974-5055 www.sailorskip.com
Styx River Tube and Canoe Rental
26091 Waterworld Road Robertsdale, AL 36567
Canoe, Kayak and Tube rentals. Visit our website for trip options and prices.
(251) 960-1161 www.styxrivertubing.com/
Underwater Works, Inc.
24208 US Highway 98 Fairhope, AL 36532
Exchange and share information, ask questions from the experts, and connect with other divers. Underwater Works specializes in scuba diving instruction offering both SSI and PADI open water diver courses.
(251) 928-5550 aladive@bellsouth.net
WildNative Tours - Gulf Shores/Orange Beach
4159 County Road 6 Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Guided Tour: the Dolphins & Wildlife Kayak
Experience
(251) 272-4088 www.wildnativetours.com
WildNative Tours - Spanish Fort
30841 Five Rivers Blvd Spanish Fort, AL 36527 Tours departing from The Battleship Causeway: Experience the Port, Bay and Delta on the Secretly Awesome Charter, Delta Wildlife Kayak Tour (251) 272-4088 www.wildnativetours.com
WildNative Tours - Stockton
8610 Rice Creek Road Stockton, AL 36579
Enjoy the thrill of exploring ancient cypress swamps in search of one HUGE Cypress – Alabama’s very own Champion Cypress.
(251) 272-4088 www.wildnativetours.com
Wind and Water Learning Center
26267 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561
Check out the special activities and events held at the Wind and Water Learning Center. Many different sailing and paddling Programs.
(251) 424-5909 www.orangebeachal.gov/386/ Wind-Water-Learning-Center ESP
Lighthouse Baptist - Eastern Shore
10526 Co Rd 64, Daphne, AL 36526
Dates: June 4-7, 2023
Times: 6:00pm-7:30pm Theme: Zoomerang (251) 445-3118 lbceasternshore.com
First Baptist Church Loxley
1050 North Alabama Street Loxley, 36551
Dates: June 4-8, 2023 Times: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Ages: Completed Kindergarten - 6th grade Theme: Stellar VBS (251) 964-5261 fbcloxleychildren@gmail.com www.fbcloxley.com
Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church
320 Presbyterian Drive Fairhope, 36532
Dates: June 5-8, Kick Off June 4, 4:30pm
Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm Ages: K5 - 6th grade Theme: Twists and Turns: Following Jesus Changes Everything!
Come see Jesus through the eyes of one of His closest friends, and discover that Jesus makes us a new creation, and following Him changes the game entirely! Registration: www.myvbs.org/ espcVBS23
(251) 210-1226 adavey@easternshorepca.org www.easternshorepca.org
First Baptist Church of Foley
221 North Alston Street Foley, 36535
Dates: June 5-8 Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: K4 - 6th grade Theme: Twists and Turns: Following Jesus Changes Everything! (251) 943-8352 tspradlin@fbcfoley.com www.fbcfoley.com
Fairhope UMC
155 South Section Street Fairhope, 36532
Dates: June 5-9 Times: 8:45am - 12:15pm
Ages: 3 years – 6th grades
Theme: Stellar VBS & Mission Week
Launch kids on a cosmic quest where they’ll have a blast shining Jesus’ light to the world.
Kids will enjoy energetic Bible Adventures, science experiments, crafts, and games! 5th/6th graders will participate in mission projects on and off-campus throughout the week. (251) 928-1148 jenna.hood@fairhopeumc.org www.fairhopeumc.org
3Circle Church
Fairhope Campus - 10274 State Highway 104 Fairhope, 36532
Dates: June 5-9, 2023 Times: 9:00am12:00pm Ages: 4 years - 4th grade
Theme: Lift Off: A Journey Into the Greatness of God
(251) 990-3112 www.3CircleChurch.com/camp
3Circle Church
Daphne Campus - 10080 County Road 64 Daphne, 36526
Dates: June 5-9, 2023 Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 4 years - 4th grade Theme: Lift Off: A Journey Into the Greatness of God (251) 990-3112 www.3CircleChurch.com/ camp
First Baptist Gulf Shores
2300 West 1st Street Gulf Shores, 36542
Dates: June 5-9, 2023 Times: 8:00am11:30pm Ages: Completed K5-5th grade (251) 968-7369 children@fbcgulf.com www.fbcgulf.com/
Jubilee Baptist Church
9264 Pleasant Road Daphne, 36526
Dates: June 12-15, 2023 Times: 5:30pm8:00pm Ages: 5 years - completed 6th grade
Theme: Twists & Turns
From Classic Tabletop Games To Video Games And More, Kids Will Play Their Way Through VBS Learning That Jesus Guides Them Through All The Twists And Turns Of Their Lives.
(251) 621-7095 kayley@jubileebaptist.com
www.jubileebaptist.com
Spanish Fort United Methodist Church
6690 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, 36527
Dates: June 12-15, 2023
Times: 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 5 years (by 9/1/2023)- 5th grade. 5th grade will have a special, Stellar VBS
Theme: Stellar VBS
Family Blast Off Night, Sunday, June 11 (251) 626-1334 children@spanishfortumc.org
www.spanishfortumc.org
Eastern Shore Baptist Church
6847 Park Drive Daphne, 36526
Dates: June 12-16, 2023
Times: 8:30am - 12:00pm Ages: K - 6th grade
Theme: Twists and Turns: Following Jesus Changes Everything! (251) 626-5550 leann@myesbc.net
www.myesbc.net
Orange Beach United Methodist Church
28751 Canal Rd Orange Beach, 36561
Dates: June 12-16Times: 5:30pm - 8:00pm
Ages: PreK (fully potty trained) - 5th grade
Theme: Stellar VBS (251) 981-6751
oboffice@orangebeachumc.org
www.orangebeachumc.org
Trinity Presbyterian Church
545 South Mobile Street Fairhope, 36532
Dates: June 12-16, Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: Completed K - 4th grade
Theme: Babylon
(251) 928-2524 www.tpcfairhope.org
Christ Presbyterian Church
8450 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, 36526
Dates: June 19-23, 2023 Times: 5:30pm7:30pm Ages: 5 years - 12 years
Theme: Stompers and Chompers: Dino-sized Faith in God’s Big Plan
(251) 621-9444 christchurchdaphne@gmail.com
www.cpcdaphne.com
First UMC Bay Minette
120 West 2nd Street Bay Minette, 36507
Dates: June 19-23 Times: 8:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 4 years - 5th grade
Theme: Stellar VBS (251) 937-8303 www.fumcbayminette.org/ vacation-bible-school/
Gulf Shores UMC - South Campus
1900 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542
Dates: June 19-22, 2023 Times: 5:30pm8:00pm Ages: 4 years-5th grade
Theme: Stellar VBS (251) 968-2411 cammie@gulfshores.church www.gulfshores.church
St. James Episcopal Church
860 N. Section St. Fairhope, 36532
Dates: June 26-29, 2023
Times: 9:00am - 11:30am Ages: PK3 (fully potty trained) - 4th grade, Service Squad is for rising 5th and 6th graders Theme: Stellar VBS A fun-filled, outer space-themed VBS is coming in June! Cost - $25 (251) 928-2912 www.stjamesfairhope.org
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
28788 North Main Street Daphne, 36526
Dates: June 26-29, 2023 Times: 9:00am12:00pm Ages: K4-4th grade Theme: TBD (251) 626-2421 ea.fst@hotmail.com www.stpaulseasternshore.com
East Pointe Baptist Church
34742 Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, 36527
Dates: June 26-29, 2023 Times: 8:30am12:00pm Ages: Completed Kindergartencompleted 6th grade Theme: Stellar We are going to be blasting off into space to see God’s beautiful creation from a different point of view. Come play games, eat snacks and learn how the Bible can apply to our lives today!
(251) 626-6263 Jamie@eastpointebaptist church.com www.eastpointebaptistchurch.com
Providence United Methodist Church
32200 Jimmy Faulkner Drive Spanish Fort, 36527
Dates: July 9-13, 2023 Times: 5:30pm7:45pm Ages: Kindergarten -Completed 5th grade Theme: Stellar VBS Register at providencemethodist.org. (251) 626-2510
www.providencemethodist.org
St. Andrews by the Sea
17263 Fort Morgan Road Gulf Shores, 36542
Dates: July 10-13, 2023 Times: 9:00am12:00pm Ages: 4 years - 5th grade (251) 968-3900 sarastap82@yahoo.com www.standrewbythesea.org
Barnwell Baptist Church
7780 US Highway 98 Fairhope, 36532
Dates: July 10-14, 2023 Times: 8:30am11:30am Ages: 4 years - 10 years
Theme: Stellar VBS (251) 928-8286 barnwellbaptist@gmail.com www.barnwellbaptist.org
St. Paul’s Lutheran (Foley)
400 N Alston Street Foley, 36535
Dates: July 10-14, 2023 Times: MondayThursday: 9 am-noon, Friday, 9 am - 12:30
Ages: Entering kindergarten - 6th grade
Theme: God’s Animal Kingdom (251) 943-6931 stpauls.lcms.foley@gmail.com www.stpaulslcms.com
3Circle Church
Robertsdale Campus Robertsdale, 36567
Dates: July 17-21 Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 4 years - 4th grade Theme: Lift Off: A Journey Into the Greatness of God (251) 990-3112
www.3CircleChurch.com/camp
City Hope Church
29964 Saint Basil St Daphne, 36526
Dates: July 17–20, 2023 Times: 9:00am12:00pm Ages: 3 years - rising 3rd Grade
Theme: City Hope Church’s Camp Jr
Just like older kids get to experience Camp, our younger kiddos are going to get to be a part of Camp Jr this summer too! This is a day camp for preschool and early elementary aged kids, and it’s happening at our Mobile and Foley locations too! Just click the link above to sign up. The cost is just $25 for the whole week, and registrations is open now through July 9.
(251) 626-0123 www.cityhope.cc/camp
City Hope Church
21270 Miflin Road Foley, 36535
Dates: July 17–20, 2023 Times: 9:00am12:00pm Ages: 3 years - rising 3rd Grade
Theme: City Hope Church’s Camp Jr
Just like older kids get to experience Camp, our younger kiddos are going to get to be a part of Camp Jr this summer too! This is a day camp for preschool and early elementary aged kids, and it’s happening at our Mobile and Foley locations too! Just click the link above to sign up. The cost is just $25 for the whole week, and registrations is open now through July 9.
(251) 626-0123 www.cityhope.cc/camp
Spanish Fort Presbyterian Church
6620 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort, AL 36527
Dates: July 24-July 27, 2023 Times: 6:00pm
- 8:00pm Theme: The Armor of God
Ages: Rising Kindergarten through 5th grade Be a Keeper of the Kingdome at VBS 2023. Please call or email to register. Enrollment is limited, so please join early.
(251) 626-1242 churchoffice@SpanishFortPC.com
www.spanishfortpresbyterian.com
Celebration Church
8180 Dyer Road Fairhope, 36532
Dates: July 31-August 2, 2023
Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: Kindergarten- 6th grade
Theme: Wild Life
Wild Life is 3-day adventure where kids discover how special they are to God and how wild it is that they can share their story, use their gifts, and how to spend time with God. *
(251) 928-0343 megan@fairhopechurch.com
www.fairhopechurch.com ESP
Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3
A dangerous megalomaniac named The High Evolutionary is obsessed with Rocket, the talking raccoon. When his attempt to kidnap Rocket go es lethally wrong, the Guardians learn that Rocket has a “kill switch” that prevents medical care without the entry of a proprietary code – one that’s held by the mastermind himself. There’s nothing new in this tired flick, except for the first sexual expletive in a Marvel film and a scene of blackout drinking. Parents will be unimpressed and only hardcore Marvel fans will enjoy this franchise outing Photo ©Walt Disney
Studios Motion Pic turesAfter a move to the suburbs, eleven -year-old Margaret tries to make friends in her new neighborhood, figure out her own religious beliefs, deal with a generational family conflict, and manage the emotional challenges of puberty. Based on Judy Blume’s well-known novel, this film takes a tender look at the upheavals of the preteen years. Characters are treated gently, and the discussion of puberty is frank and determinedly reassuring. Although the topics are teen -focused, the film appeals to adults who grew up with the books and want a hit of nostalgia. Photo ©Lionsgate
While seeking his kidnapped sister, Seiya meets Alman, who tells him that he has superpowers and is destined to protect the reincarnat ion of the goddess Athena. To succeed, he must learn to harness the powers within Based on a manga series, this movie also borrows heavily from Star Wars. Not surprisingly, it features several dynamic scenes of magical combat but other negative content is minimal . This derivative movie won’t impress adults but it will provide a good t ime to the tweens and teens for whom it was made Photo © Stage 6 Films
Caleb has grown up on a lunar colony and after his father’s death, he’s being transferred to the planet Omega. Before he leaves, he and his friends plan a rover road trip to a distant crater his parents used to visit. Far, far better than Disney’s usual streaming films, this movie features believable world building and a plot that grapples with injustice, family problems, grief, and taking charge of one’s destiny. Best of all, it does so without graphic violence and only occasional profanity. This is a good choice for family movie night with older kids and teens . Photo ©Disney+
PG B B A A- A
Wendy is preparing to leave for boarding school when Peter Pan pays her a visit. He sweeps Wendy and her brothers, John and Michael, off to Neverland where they meet the Lost Boys, Tiger Lily, and a band of pirates led by the evil Captain Hook. This is a polished adaptation of the classic children’s book , with a distinct visual design, but it feels bland and somehow pointless. That said, it avoids the blatant racism found in the novel and Disney’s 1953 version, which is a plus Photo ©Disney+
By Anderson McKean
This goofy graphic novel series follows the super spy alligator duo the InvestiGators as they travel through the sewers and fight the forces of evil. With their gadgets, know-how, and super-fast transportation system, Mango and Brash are the scourge of the super-villain landscape! As vest-wearing employees of the Special Undercover Investigation Teams, they solve all kinds of mysteries and fight the bad guys. Kid-friendly comics at their best!
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s—wait, it really IS a bird! Take another look, because what looks like an ordinary pigeon might just be a hero saving your fanny! Meet the crime-fighting pigeons secretly flying around chasing bad guys in this hilarious illustrated series perfect for fans of Bad Guys and Dog Man! REAL PIGEONS solve mysteries, fight villains and won’t stop until your neighborhood is safe and ALL the questions are all answered.
Ever since the monster apocalypse hit town, Jack has been living in his tree house, which he's armed with catapults and a moat. But Jack alone is no match for hordes of Zombies and the eerily intelligent monster, Blarg. Jack builds a team of his best friends, and together they plan to slay Blarg and achieve the ultimate Feat of Apocalyptic Success. Told in a mixture of text and black-and-white illustration, this is the perfect series for any kid who's ever dreamed of starring in their own comic book or video game!
Katie the Catsitter by Colleen AF Venable
Katie is dreading the summer ahead while her friends are all away at camp-something that's way out of her mom's budget, unless Katie can earn the money herself. But when Katie gets a job catsitting for her mysterious upstairs neighbor, life get interesting. Madeline has 217 cats and they're not exactly normal cats. Also, why is Madeline always out EXACTLY when the city's most notorious villain commits crimes? Could Katie's upstairs neighbor really be a super villain?
As a military spouse, I have moved a handful of times with and without kids.
In the last year and a half alone, we have relocated three different times... with kids.
It is not always easy and sometimes it doesn’t go as smoothly as we’d like, but it is possible to do while maintaining a tiny bit of your sanity.
I know you might be thinking that moving across the country or to a new neighborhood can seem stressful and make you crazy, but it really doesn’t have to be that way. It’s possible to make moving with your kids stress-free and a fun family memory for you. I promise! What I share won’t take a lot of time to do and anyone can use these tips to help them have a calm move.
Here are 7 things that have helped us when we’ve had to move with kids:
1) Lists Are Your Friend. Maybe I’m just a “list-person” but lists keep me sane and organized. Even if you don’t consider yourself to particularly rely on lists in your daily life, moving with children in tow may just be the perfect time to start!
Set aside a notebook, folder, or even a binder for your moving prep. In it, you can keep your lists, paperwork, important documents, and anything else you may need in one spot.
Lists help me sort out the overwhelm and break things down into what I have to do right now, what can wait, or what I will have to do in the future. I make lists for each car if we’re driving, the plane if we’re flying, snack lists, packing lists for each person or pet, and to-do lists.Things to grab or do the morning of is another helpful one!
town or mom groups. These are awesome for anything from pediatrician recommendations to which park is in the safest area or places to avoid for various reasons. Many areas have stroller and fitness groups or organize community playdates and other activities. I’ve also met some of my best mom-friends because of these groups!
3) Even Though You Can’t Prepare for Everything... Try to Prepare for Everything. If you’re driving long distances, don’t forget to have some sort of “car sick” or cleanup bag – Lysol wipes, a roll of paper towels, plenty of grocery bags. If your baby relies on a sound machine to sleep, be sure to have a battery backup,
4) The Magic Hotel/First Night Bag. This will help eliminate shuffling through your trunk and other bags when you’re exhausted after driving. We’ve driven for 12, 16, and even 18 hours while moving across a few states. With two littles, two cars, and pets, it made sense to stop for the night and break up the drive into two days. This was overwhelming because it added another challenge with kiddos: a hotel stay.
I don’t know about your kids, but mine require certain things when they sleep, whether it’s in a house or hotel -- a sound machine, sleep sack, overnight pull-ups, etc. Rather than tearing through each person’s individual bag in the hotel parking lot at 7 p.m. or lugging multiple bags into the hotel for just one night, we pack one bag with everything.
5) Special Toys and New Toys. We are not an “excessive-toy” family and tend to lean more toward minimalism, but this is where I have a bit of grace. In the long run, it saves my sanity and, while moving, that is so very important.
When driving long distances, we usually grab a few new toys. Sometimes it’s simple things like a small fidget-type toy or activity, sometimes it’s a few cheap toys for the baby from the dollar store that I can toss back while driving when he starts freaking out. On our last move, we got our almost-four-year-old a play toolset so she could “help” my husband put our furniture together at our new home. It’s one of my favorite memories, seeing them sitting on the floor together with all the parts. My husband read the instructions while she sat patiently until he would ask her to use her plastic hammer while wearing her pretend safety goggles.
While on the topic of toys, think carefully about what you’re giving them in the car. Stickers are okay for a four-year-old, but I wouldn’t want to peel them off my car windows from my two-year-old. For littles, use pacifier clips for smaller teethers so they don’t throw them two minutes into the trip. Does it make a mess? Is it safe? Can they swallow, break it (so it becomes sharp), or otherwise hurt themselves with it?
Obviously, we cannot control everything that happens, but I’m going to opt to give my
kid Water Wow pens instead of real markers on a twelve-hour road trip. Even if they’re washable. For most, this is probably a bit of a “pick your battles” scenario.
6) Make the Kids Feel Comfortable as Soon as Possible. When we moved into our last house, my husband went to my daughter’s room and told her to stand in her doorway. He then talked loudly down the hall to show her we could easily hear her if she needed anything from her room (especially at night).
Since our things were on a moving truck and didn’t come until the following week or so, we made sure to have our kids’ special sheets/bedding with us in the car. The very first thing we did was set up their bed/space. Even though they were on air mattresses and makeshift bedding the first night, we wanted it to be as familiar and comfortable as possible for them to help with the adjustment. We treated our oldest like one of the adults, showing her around the house and letting her know where things would be going, making as many connections from our last house as possible.
7) Snacks, Screens, and a Whole Lot of Grace. While we try to limit screens normally, we have a lot of grace during traveling and getting into a new residence. Some -
times the kids need to be out of the way while I’m unpacking breakables or when there are a lot of people in and out of the house. One of my best sanity-saving tips is giving my daughter movie time while I listen to my own podcast upfront while driving, and the youngest naps. Be intentional when possible. Plan your screens and use them as a tool and don’t show your cards right away. Save screens for when you need them!
Rather than a screen for littles, we usually get a new brightly colored music or light-up toy. Super annoying, but does the job of keeping their attention.
Snacks and more snacks while driving, of course. New or special snacks are great too. For older kiddos, the big lollipops that last forever are a special reward.
Overall, moving is stressful for both parents and kids. Try to do things that make it special and memorable, but also give yourself and your kids tons of flexibility and forgiveness. The transition phase isn’t forever and you’ll find your groove soon enough!
Kailyn is a wife and mama to two wild, blond babes, currently living where the military sends us. With an Early Childhood Education and Psychology degree, she is a Kindergarten teacher-turned-mama turnedfreelance writer.
But, if you’re thinking about a vasectomy, we’d love to talk.
To find a location near you visit uampa.com or call 251-433-1895 to make an appointment.
We haven’t just changed the experience of having a baby; we’ve transformed it, starting with a host of birthing options from the region’s only academic health system. From a traditional birthing experience, to a Gentle C-Section, to the region’s most advanced neonatal intensive care unit and maternal-fetal specialists, the experience you want is here.
Thursday June 1
Slide into Summer
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Heritage Park, Foley, AL, 36535 A fun filled day of inflatables, water play, snowcones, prizes and more. Don’t forget your towels & beach chairs! www.foleylibrary.org
Friday June 2
Heritage Park Marketplace and Music and a Movie
4:30 PM Heritage Park Gazebo, 101 E. Violet Ave. Foley, AL, 36535 Music and a Movie and Heritage Park Marketplace return to Heritage Park. The popular Foley event kicks off at 4:30 p.m. with Heritage Park Marketplace, which will showcase a variety of arts and crafts as well as plants, vegetables, fruits, and gift items. The marketplace will operate from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with live entertainment beginning at 6 p.m., followed by a movie at dusk. www.visitfoley.com/
Live at Five Concert
5:00 PM Halstead Amphitheater, 450 Fairhope Ave Fairhope, AL, 36532 Tip Tops Concerts take place at The Halstead Amphitheater located in downtown Fairhope on the campus of Coastal Alabama Community College. www.liveatfivefairhope.com
Spanish Fort Library Outdoor Movie Night
6:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36537 A fun family night for all ages. Bring a picnic dinner and your tailgate chairs and join the Spanish Fort Public Library and the City of Spanish Fort as we host OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT on the back patio lawn. Movie starts at dusk and patio opens at 7 p.m. for refreshments and activities. www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
Koe Wetzel Concert
7:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Koe Wetzel with special guests
Pecos & the Rooftops + Huser Brother Band is coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on June 2 as part of the 2023 C Spire Concert Series!
www.alwharf.com/
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM George C. Meyer Performing Arts Center, 2022 W. 2nd St Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Nunsense will be taking to the stage this summer at the George C Meyers Performing Arts Center. Performances run Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8:00PM and Sundays at 3:00PM.
205-348-7351 www.summertide.as.ua.edu/tickets/
Saturday June 3
Living History Crew Drill
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602
Come see history come to life with our WWII historical reenactors. Activities, demonstrations and meet and greets. Be on the deck of the USS ALABAMA at 1:00 p.m. for the call to battle stations
251-433-2703 www.ussalabama.com
Gulf Coast Home & Outdoor Expo
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US98 Daphne, AL, 36526 WKRG News 5 is pleased to
announce our first ever Gulf Coast Home & Outdoor EXPO coming Saturday June 3rd to the Daphne Civic Center. www.wkrg.com
Mobile Bay and the Eastern Shore Cruise
9:00 AM Bartram Landing at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30841 Five Rivers Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Experience a unique look at beautiful Mobile Bay and the scenic Eastern Shore on this relaxing voyage past the charming towns of Spanish Fort, Daphne, Montrose, and Fairhope and down to the historic Middle Bay Lighthouse.
www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events
Gulf Coast Home & Outdoor Expo
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Come see the latest in Home Improvement, Backyard Improvement, Interior Remodeling, Design, Outdoor Living and so much more! The event will be FREE to the public. www.wkrg.com
Summer Reading Kickoff Splash BashOrange Beach Public Library
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Orange Beach Public Library, 26267 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Summer Reading Kickoff is June 3 from 10:30-12, enjoy inflatable water slide, bounce house, arts and crafts and more.
(251) 981-2923 www.orangebeachlibrary.org
Wolf Bay - Full Moon Paddle
5:30 PM Wind and Water Learning Center, 26267 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The full Moon Paddle series are monthly fundraisers during the summer season. The cost is $35, with all funds going to the Baldwin County Child Advocacy Center. The events include catered hors d’oeuvres, entertainment by a local musician, and a guided paddle on Wolf Bay to watch the sunset and moon rise. Dinner and entertainment start at 6 pm, with the kayaks launching at 7 pm and back by 9 pm. www.gulfshores.com/events-calendar/community/ full-moon-paddle/
The Eastern Shore Chamber Music Festival 2023
7:30 PM Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship, 1150 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 The Eastern Shore Chamber Music Festival 2023: Love Potions www.escmf.org
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Sunday June 4
The Eastern Shore Chamber Music Festival 2023
2:30 PM Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship, 1150 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 The Eastern Shore Chamber Music Festival 2023: Endless Skyway www.escmf.org
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
3:00 PM George C. Meyer Performing Arts Center, 2022 W. 2nd St Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Nunsense will be taking to the stage this summer at the George C Meyers Performing Arts Center. Performances run Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8:00PM and Sundays at 3:00PM.
205-348-7351 www.summertide.as.ua.edu/tickets/
Monday June 5
Daphne Summer Reading Kickoff
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Join us for our summer reading kickoff party.
251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library
Tuesday June 6
2023 Summer Reading Kickoff Celebration
9:30 AM - 3:00 PM, Spanish Fort Community Center, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527
Beginning at 8am, come into the library to get all the information you need to participate in the 2023 ALL TOGETHER NOW summer learning program, Jen’s Bay Balloons will be onsite at 9:30 to brighten your morning with a FREE personal balloon creation, 10:30am gather in the multipurpose room for a guaranteed good time watching the antics of Tomfoolery, 11:30 -1:30: WACKED OUT
WEINER food truck onsite, 11:30 -1:30: FREE sno-cones from the KONA ICE truck, 11:30 -2:30: FREE face painting from Mary B. Faces, 12noon through 2:00pm the following stations will be set up inside and outside around the Community Center building.
251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Wednesday June 7
Paddle & Paint Kayak Excursions
5:30 PM Wind and Water Learning Center, 26267 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 On this excursion, participants will learn multiple paddle strokes, making them a more efficient kayaker. Participants will also have the opportunity to practice basic watercolor techniques while creating their own work of art as they float in back-bay waters.
251-981-1063 www.gulfshores.com/events-calendar/community/full-moon-paddle/
Prince Tribute Celebration ($50-$125)
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 Come out and help paint Mobile purple on June 7, 2023, as we welcome “America’s #1 Prince experience band” to Cooper Riverside Park for the City of Mobile’s largest concert event of the summer. www.eventbrite.com
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Thursday June 8
World Ocean Day Open House 2023 (Free)
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Center, 15500 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL, 32507 Join us for a day of environmentally focused games, activities, and art projects at the Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Center. The Chamber along with multiple partner agencies will be presenting information on protecting our beaches and marine habitat in conjunction with World Ocean Day. www.perdidochamber.com/
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM George C. Meyer Performing Arts Center, 2022 W. 2nd St Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Nunsense will be taking to the stage this summer at the George C Meyers Performing Arts Center. Performances run
Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8:00PM and Sundays at 3:00PM.
205-348-7351 www.summertide.as.ua.edu/tickets
Fathers Day Make and Take
1:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Daphne Public Library, 2607 US98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Come pick up a gift to make for fathers day.
251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library
Heritage Park Marketplace and Music and a Movie
4:30 PM Heritage Park Gazebo, 101 E. Violet Ave. Foley, AL, 36535 Music and a Movie and Heritage Park Marketplace return to Heritage Park. The popular Foley event kicks off at 4:30 p.m. with Heritage Park Marketplace, which will showcase a variety of arts and crafts as well as plants, vegetables, fruits, and gift items. The marketplace will operate from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with live entertainment beginning at 6 p.m., followed by a movie at dusk. www.visitfoley.com/
The Eastern Shore Chamber Music Festival 2023
7:30 PM Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship, 1150 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 The Eastern Shore Chamber Music Festival 2023: Sincerely Yours www.escmf.org
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Saturday June 10
North Baldwin Home Expo (Free admission)
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, John F. Rhodes Civic Center, 301 D’Olive Street Bay Minette, AL North Baldwin Home
Expo-vendors, displays, demonstrations, giveaways, food trucks. northbaldwinchamber.com
Tropic Takeover 2 – A Super Smash Bros. Tournament
10:00 AM The Bohemian, 100 S. OWA Blvd. Foley, AL, 36535 Clash eSports & VR Center is hosting another huge Super Smash Bros. Tournament this June! Register today to save and get your name in the running for a $1000 guaranteed prize pool plus bonus prizes! www.start.gg/tournament/tropic-takeover-2-at-owaparks-and-resort/details
InvestiGATORS
Scavenger Hunt
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Page & Palette, 32 S Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join us for a sewerloving InvestiGATORS
Scavenger Hunt at Page & Palette! On Saturday, June 10th from 10AM-12PM, bring your magnifying glasses and sleuthing friends for a morning filled with InvestiGATOR fun. S.U.I.T Agents, we need you. 251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com
Instrument Petting Zoo
11:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join Dr. Rachael for a special music program exploring instruments. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Boots & Bandanas Drawdown & More
5:15 PM Baldwin County Coliseum, 19477 Fairground Rd Robertsdale, AL, 36567 Dust off your country attire
Our dedicated doctors, nurses, researchers and staff are committed to finding a cure, so kids like Adrian can live their healthiest life – cancer free. We never give up hope of a world without childhood cancer and blood disorders, and that’s why we are here.
and join us for a memorable evening with dinner, adult beverages, and some dancing during breaks, including line dancing lessons before dinner, raffles, door prizes, a silent auction, a drawdown, and great company.
https://bit.ly/boots-and-bandanas-drawdown-cbcc
Masquerade Ball
6:00 PM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Our event invites you to “mask out” cancer for one night by celebrating local cancer survivors and those still fighting. This year’s summer event will boast great music, food, drink, and a silent auction and always-entertaining live auction.
www.anchorcrossfoundation.org/masquerade-ball
The Eastern Shore Chamber Music Festival 2023
7:30 PM Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship, 1150 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 The Eastern Shore Chamber Music Festival 2023: Kaleidoscopes & Daydreams
www.escmf.org
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Sunday June 11
The Eastern Shore Chamber Music Festival 2023
2:30 PM Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship, 1150 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 The Eastern Shore Chamber Music Festival 2023: Brace Yourself! Come check ESCMF’s climactic, adrenaline packed final program of the 2023 season, Brace Yourself
www.escmf.org
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
3:00 PM Details on June 2.
Tuesday June 13
Spanish Fort Library - Summer Reading Event
10:30 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Magician show and facepainting.
251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
Game Night
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, Daphne Public Library, 2607 US98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Join us on April 11th for some Bingo Game Night fun!
251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Spanish Fort Summer Reading - Magician Spanish Fort Community Center, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Beginning at 8am, come into the library to get all the information you need to participate in the 2023 ALL TOGETHER NOW summer learning program, Jen’s Bay Balloons will be onsite at 9:30 to brighten your morning with a FREE personal balloon creation, 10:30am gather in the multipurpose room for a guaranteed good time watching the antics of Tomfoolery, 11:30 -1:30: WACKED OUT WEINER food truck onsite, 11:30
-1:30: FREE sno-cones from the KONA ICE truck, 11:30 -2:30: FREE face painting from Mary B. Faces, 12noon through 2:00pm the following stations will be set up inside and outside around the Community Center building.
251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
Wednesday June 14
Kids Gulf Discovery Day
9:00 AM12:00 PM, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Bellingrath Gardens and Home is excited to announce that Kids Gulf Discovery Day will be back again this year with wonderful activities and educational opportunities for many ages.
251-973-2217 www.bellingrath.org
Paddle & Paint Kayak Excursions
5:30 PM Wind and Water Learning Center, 26267 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 On this excursion, participants will learn multiple paddle strokes, making them a more efficient kayaker. Participants will also have the opportunity to practice basic watercolor techniques while creating their own work of art as they float in back-bay waters.
251-981-1063 www.gulfshores.com/events-calendar/community/full-moon-paddle/
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Thursday June 15
Exceptional Foundation Gulf Coast
Karaoke Night
5:30 AM Exceptional Foundation, 28788 N Main Street Daphne, AL, 36526 Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast invites you to join them for an evening of Music, Food, and Fun. Tickets are $15 for one or 2 tickets for $25. Proceeds from this event will benefit Exception Foundation Gulf Coast. Exception Foundation Gulf Coast provides social and recreational opportunities for the special needs community of Baldwin and Mobile Counties. For sponsor opportunities or for more information call (251) 625-8955.
251-625-8955 www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org
James Taylor Concert
7:30 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL, 36561 James Taylor & His All-Star Band is coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on June 15 as part of the 2023 C Spire Concert Series www.alwharf.com
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Friday June 16
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Saturday June 17
Corn Festival, Boat Show & Fishing Expo
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermens Market, 781 Farmers Market Lane Foley, AL, 36535 The 7th Annual Corn Festival will feature all your favorite vendors, a corn-eating contest, and tons of activities for the kids. This year there will also be a boat show and fishing expo held in tandem with the festival so people can find everything the season has to offer from both our farmers and our fishermen.
www.coastalalabamamarket.com/home
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Kyser Miree Fishing Tournament
Various locations, Anglers may launch and fish anywhere but must weigh fish at the official weigh stations. All proceeds benefit Wilmer Hall. www.wilmerhall.org/kyser
LuLu’s Hot Trot for ARC
LuLu’s, 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 LuLu’s Hot Trot for ARC 5K Run/Walk is a fundraising event benefitting ARC of Baldwin County. www.lulusfunfoodmusic.com/lulus-hot-trot/
Sunday June 18
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
3:00 PM Details on June 2.
Monday June 19
Les Claypool’s Fearless Flying Frog Brigade
7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 Les Claypool’s Fearless Flying Frog Brigade www.asmglobalmobile.com/
Tuesday June 20
Spanish Fort Library - Summer Reading Event
10:30 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Animal Tales show and facepainting
251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Wednesday June 21
Spanish Fort Library - Summer Reading Event
2:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Step Dance show for ages 8 and up.
251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
Paddle & Paint Kayak Excursions
5:30 PM Wind and Water Learning Center, 26267 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 On this excursion, participants will learn multiple paddle strokes, making them a more efficient kayaker. Participants will also have the opportunity to practice basic watercolor techniques while creating their own work of art as they float in back-bay waters.
251-981-1063 www.gulfshores.com/events-calendar/community/full-moon-paddle/
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Thursday June 22
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Saturday June 24
100 Alabama Miles Local Kickoff
8:30 AM Historic Blakeley State Park, 34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Blakeley’s event will feature a 2 mile-hike along a portion of our incrediblypreserved Civil War battlefield guided by park staff. Participants will receive a free commemorative t-shirt while supplies last
www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events
Southern Star Search and Rescue Instruction Program for Kids
10:00 AM Historic Blakeley State Park, 34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Blakeley is a partner with Southern Star Search & Rescue, a non-profit volunteer organization and member of the Alabama Association of Rescue Squads (AARS). SoS-SAR provides trained search personnel and Search K9’s to law enforcement, fire & rescue squads, and other agencies in our region to assist in finding missing persons. During this special program, children will be introduced to a few of the basic survival techniques that could mean life or death in the unfortunate event they became lost in the outdoors.
www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events
Local Artisans Summer Market
12:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Eastern Shore Centre, 30500 Hwy 181 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Support Local Artisans Summer Market on Saturday, June 24, 2023 from Noon - 8:00pm. www.easternshorecentre.com
Walker Hayes in Concert
7:30 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Walker Hayes in Concert www.alwharf.com
Southern Momma & Friends
7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 Comedy Tour featuring Comedians Red Squirrel and Gary Cargal hosted by Robin Phoenix. www.asmglobalmobile.com/
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Sunday June 25
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
3:00 PM Details on June 2.
Dauphin Island Sunset Concert
6:00 PM Dauphin Island, AL
www.townofdauphinisland.org
Tuesday June 27
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Wednesday June 28
Paddle & Paint Kayak Excursions
5:30 PM Wind and Water Learning Center, 26267 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 On this excursion, participants will learn multiple paddle strokes, making them a more efficient kayaker. Participants will also have the opportunity to practice basic watercolor techniques while creating their own work of art as they float in back-bay waters. 251-981-1063 www.gulfshores.com/events-calendar/community/full-moon-paddle/
SummerTide Theatre presents “Nunsense”
8:00 PM Details on June 2.
Friday June 30
Rockabilly BamaLama
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Robertsdale Coliseum, 19477 Fairgrounds Road Robertsdale, AL, 36567 Car, Hot Rods, Low Riders, Motorcycle and Truck Show, World Renowned Bands in Three Days, Fireworks nightly, Vendors, Food and more. www.rockabillybamalama.com/
2023 Ozanam’s Jazz Extravaganza 6:00 PM The Grand Hall, 3556 Halls Mill Road Mobile, AL, 36693
Dance, dine and mingle to the sounds of Jarvis Wright & Keep It Live, Gabby Merz & The Swing Band. Enjoy delectable dishes and drinks – free food and open bar. Support our Mission and leave with something great from our Silent Auction, Raffle and Wine Pull. All proceeds benefit Ozanam Charitable Pharmacy’s mission of providing free medicine to uninsured patients in Mobile, Baldwin, Escambia and Washington Counties. www.ozanampharmacy.org
Saturday July 1
Flora-Bama’s 3rd Annual Freedom Run
8:00 AM Flora-Bama Lounge, Package and Oyster Bar, 17401 Perdido Key Dr. Pensacola, FL, 32507 This patriotic run will feature two courses: The 4 Mile Run/ Walk Course or the 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk. www.florabama.com/freedom-run
Rockabilly BamaLama
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Robertsdale Coliseum, 19477 Fairgrounds Road Robertsdale, AL, 36567 Car, Hot Rods, Low Riders, Motorcycle and Truck Show, World Renowned Bands in Three Days, Fireworks nightly, Vendors, Food and more. www.rockabillybamalama.com/
Tuesday July 4
9th Annual - Shark 5K Run / Competitive Walk & 1 Mile Fun Run
7:00 AM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Join us for the 9th Annual Shark 5K Run / Competitive Walk & 1 Mile Fun Run www.thesharkrun.com/
Mobile Pops 4th of July Concert
7:00 PM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 The Mobile Pops will play their July 4th concert in the Medal of Honor Aircraft Pavilion. The concert will include patriotic favorites, military marches, contemporary scores and more. Admission is free to. 251-433-2703 www.ussalabama.com
Fairhope’s Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks Display
7:30 PM Fairhope Municipal Pier, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join us in celebrating Independence Day with a spectacular firework show and concert over the beautiful Mobile Bay! Lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics are suggested, as this is an outdoor venue. www.fairhopeal.gov
The City of Gulf Shores Fourth of July Fireworks
Celebration (The City of Gulf Shores will celebrate the Fourth of July with a stunning fireworks display, beginning at 9 p.m. on July 4. Fireworks will be shot from the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier.)
9:00 PM 20800 E. Beach Blvd. Gulf Shores, AL, 36542www.gulfshoresal.gov/1431/Independence-DayCelebration
Daphne’s Fourth of July Celebration
Al Trione Sports Complex, 8600 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, AL, 36526 Join us for our 4th of July celebration. Visit our Facebook page for details. www.daphneal.com/
Tuesday July 11
Spanish Fort Library - Summer Reading Event
10:30 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Montgomery zoo2go and facepainting 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
Wednesday July 12
Spanish Fort Library - Summer Reading Event
1:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Alan Seallsweather program at 1 p.m. for all ages and families 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
Friday July 14
Theatre 98 presents “A Midsummer’s Night Dream”
7:30 PM Theatre 98 , 350 Morphy Ave Fairhope, AL, 36532 www.theatre98.org/
Saturday July 15
Theatre 98 presents “A Midsummer’s Night Dream”
7:30 PM Theatre 98 , 350 Morphy Ave Fairhope, AL, 36532 www.theatre98.org/
Sunday July 16
Theatre 98 presents “A Midsummer’s Night Dream”
2:30 PM Theatre 98 , 350 Morphy Ave Fairhope, AL, 36532 www.theatre98.org/
Tuesday July 18
Spanish Fort Library - Summer Reading Event
10:30 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Poodle show and facepainting.
251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
Thursday July 20
Flavors of the South Food & Wine Tasting Baldwin County Coliseum, 19477 Fairground Rd Robertsdale, AL, 36567 Flavors of the South Food & Wine Tasting www.centralbaldwin.com
Every Monday
Free Build - STEM Play (Free)
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 2 to 10 years old. Come put your creative imagination to the test! We will put out all of our legos, soft blocks, lincoln logs, picnic pieces, buckets of dinosaurs, and more. Join us in the Activity Room for Free Build every Monday and Friday from 9am - Noon.
251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org
Movie Mondays
2:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Movie Mondays, 2pm in Giddens Auditorium, Ages 2-12 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
MakerSpace Mondays at Fairhope Library
6:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 9+. Join us every Monday in the MakerSpace for fun, hands-on crafts and activities. We will have a different craft, experiment, or group activity every week! All materials are provided for free.
251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Monday
Sparks After Dark
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The weekly fireworks show will flash to life again this summer! Come early and enjoy entertainment from magicians, stilt walkers and jugglers, then stick around to dance to the rhythm of the beat with DJ Matt.
251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com
Daphne Summer Reading Entertainment
10:30 AM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Join us for Summer Reading Entertainment on Mondays in June.
251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library
Movers & Shakers Toddler Storytime (Free)
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 18 months to 2 years old. Join us for a special storytime just for toddlers every Tuesday at 10am in the Activity Room for silly books, silly songs, and fun crafts. This summer we will focus on ocean themed stories and crafts - perfect for our little explorers!
251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Bay Minette Public Library Story Time
10:00 AM Bay Minette Public Library, 205 W 2nd St Bay Minette, AL, 36507 Story-time runs yearround at 10 a.m. Tuesdays in the Children’s Room at the Bay Minette Public Library. These stories are geared toward younger children but all are welcome.
www.cityofbayminetteal.gov/departments/library
Story time - Lap Babies (Free)
10:30 AM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Lap babies at 10:30 am (infant to 23 months) Songs, stories, puppets and more!
251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library
Toddler Storytime
10:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Toddler Storytime-Ages 18m-2yrs
251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Big Kid Storytime (Free)
11:30 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 3 to 7 years old. Join our super fun storytime every Tuesday at 11am, where we read new books, sing new songs, do creative crafts, and make new friends. This summer we will focus on ocean themed stories and crafts! 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Story time - Tweens (Free)
2:00 PM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Tween story time - 3rd-5th grade at 2:00pm.
251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library
Tuesdays from June 6-July 18
Bay Minette Public Library Summer Reading Program
1:00 PM John F. Rhodes Civic Center, 301 D’Olive St Bay Minette, AL, 36507 Summer Reading Program is back, every Tuesday from June 6-July 18 at 1:00pm at the John F. Rhodes Civic Center. Program schedule: June 6: Tom Foolery–Juggling and Unicycles, June 13: I Believe in Magic–Illusions and Fun, June 20: Animal Tales–Live Animals, June 27: Freedom Ranch–Free Flying Birds, July 11: Cowboy Bruce Brannen–A Favorite Returns and July 18: Michelle’s Magic Poodles–Real Dogs
251-580-1648 www.cityofbayminetteal.gov/departments/library
Tuesdays May 30 - August 1
Wild Wild Wharf
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 DJ Matt will be turning up the tunes as you dance the two-step. Enjoy a mechanical bull, bounce house, pony rides, a water slide, face painting + so much more.
251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com
Tech Tuesdays
4:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 C Spire Concert Series Presents: Hank Williams Jr with Special Guest Old Crow Medicince Show
251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
Wednesday
Storytime - Page & Palette
10:30 AM Page & Palette, 32 S Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 Please join us on Wednesdays at 10:30 AM for storytime! Each week, Miss Paula share a silly story the whole family will enjoy.
251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com
Centennial Park Story Time (Free)
10:30 AM 1706 Main Street Daphne, AL, 36526
251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library
Pre-K Story Time (Free)
10:30 AM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Pre-K story time at 10:30 am and 2:00 pm(24 months to 4 years) stories and craft.
251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library
Big Event Wednesdays
2:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Big Event Wednesdays-2pm in Giddens Auditorium
251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Pepsi Treasure Hunt for Hunger benefitting Secret Meals for Hungry Children
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Pepsi Treasure Hunt for Hunger benefitting Secret Meals for Hungry Children. Treasure Hunt + DJ Matt: 6-9 pm, Pirate-themed characters: 6:30-8:30 pm, Bubble Truck: 6:30-8:30 pm | Glow Bubbles: 8 pm, SPECTRA Laser Light Experience: 8:30, 9 + 9:30 pm
251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com
Observe and Explore (Free)
10:00 AM Graham Creek Natural Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 The program will begin at 10:00 am with a story that fits the theme. This will be followed by a short lesson with an activity or science experiment. The program will end with a themed craft. Lessons and activities are based on elementary level concepts and skills related to nature.
251-923-4267 www.grahamcreekpreserve.org
Every Thursday
Storytime Thursday - Spanish Fort Library
10:30 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join the Spanish Fort Public Library for stories, songs, and group time each Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m. Best for ages 5 and under.
251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
Babies and Books Storytime (Free)
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages Newborn to 18 months. Join us for our special storytime just for babies and caregivers every Thursday at 10am for nursery rhymes, silly songs, tummy time, and sensory play.
251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/
Junior Storytime (K-2nd Grade (Free)
10:30 AM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Junior story time at 10:30 am and 2 pm. 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library
Homeschool Hour
11:30 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 8-14. Join us every Thursday at 11am for Homeschool Hour! We will explore a new topic every week, followed by a hands-on craft or STEAM based activity. The idea is to explore fun topics in a laid-back, relaxed setting - the perfect place to make new friends! Need more info? Email youthservices@fairhopelibrary.org
251-929-1465
Thursdays through June 29
Fairhope Outdoor Spring Farmers Market
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Behind the Fairhope Library, 501 Fairhope Ave Fairhope, AL, 36532 Fairhope Outdoor Farmers Market featuring local farmers, handmade goods and kids’ activities. www.fairhopeal.gov
Thursdays in June and July
Summer Reading Program-Events
10:00 AM Foley Civic Center, 407 E. Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 Summer Reading Program Special Events on Thursdays. www.foleylibrary.org
Thursdays June 1 - August 3
Slice of Summer
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Surprise themes every week. Kids’ Activities + DJ Matt: 6-9 pm, SPECTRA Laser Light Experience: 8:30, 9 + 9:30 pm 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com
Every first Friday
Graham Creek Natural Preserve Guided Tours
(Free) 9:00 AM Graham Creek Natural Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 Call to reserve a gold cart tour of the reserve. Limit: 8 251-923-4267 www.grahamcreekpreserve.org
Every second Saturday
ART Club Saturday
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM, Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 ART Club Saturday! 9:30 – 10:30 limit of 15 participants. Best for ages 7 and up. Advance registration is recommended to ensure we have enough supplies. Visit https://www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/sfplevents for more information.
251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org
Every third Saturday
Observe and Explore (Free)
10:00 AM Graham Creek Natural Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 The program will begin at 10:00 am with a story that fits the theme. This will be followed by a short lesson with an activity or science experiment. The program will end with a themed craft. Lessons and activities are based on elementary level concepts and skills related to nature.
251-923-4267 www.grahamcreekpreserve.org
Every third Saturday
Graham Creek Natural Preserve Trail Trot (Free) Graham Creek Natural Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 Call to reserve a hike of the preserve.
251-923-4267 www.grahamcreekpreserve.org
Second and fourth Sundays
Mobile Bay Maker’s Market
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Along Mobile Bay at The Pier, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Taking place every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month, the Mobile Bay Maker’s Market features over 35 local artisans, farmers, and makers along the gulf coast. The event takes place just south of the Fairhope Municipal Pier. Food trucks are also on site.
Every first and third Sunday
Animal Ambassadors
2:00 PM Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at 2 PM as we present one or more of our live educational animals. Free, family friendly, no registration required. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center
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.
Let’s talk algorithms! They play a huge part in why your kids do what they do with their social media. They honestly affect anyone that is using social media. Algorithms are the invisible forces that power our digital lives. They are the mathematical equations determining what content we see on social media platforms and search engines. As a result, algorithms significantly impact our lives, including the lives of children growing up in a world where social media is ubiquitous.
The algorithms that power social media platforms are designed to keep users engaged. They do this by showing users content, most likely to keep them on the platform for as long as possible. Unfortunately, this means that the content that children see on social media may not always be the most accurate or reliable. Instead, it is content that has been optimized for engagement.
One of the ways that algorithms determine what content to show users is by tracking their behavior on the platform. This includes the posts they like, the accounts they follow, and the comments they leave. Algorithms use this information to create a profile of each user, which is then used to show them content likely to interest them.
While this may seem harmless, it can have negative consequences for children. For example, if a child spends a lot of time on social media looking at posts about beauty standards, the algorithm may show
them even more content related to this topic. This can create a feedback loop reinforcing negative body image and selfesteem issues.
Algorithms also have the power to create filter bubbles, environments where users only see content that confirms their beliefs. This can be especially harmful to children, who are still developing their worldview. If they are only exposed to content that supports their existing ideas, they may struggle to see other perspectives and become more closed-minded.
Another way algorithms can negatively impact children is by exposing them to harmful or inappropriate content. Social media platforms have come under fire in recent years for spreading harmful content, such as hate speech and misinformation. Children are particularly vulnerable to this type of content, as they may not have the critical thinking skills to discern what is true and what is not.
Algorithms can also contribute to spreading misinformation by promoting sensational and controversial content over more factual and accurate information. This can be especially harmful regarding issues like health and science, where accurate information is crucial for making informed decisions.
So, what can be done to mitigate the negative impacts of algorithms on children? One solution is for social media platforms to be more transparent about how their
algorithms work, allowing parents and educators to understand better the content children are being exposed to and take steps to mitigate any adverse effects.
Another solution is for parents to be more involved in their children’s social media use, including monitoring the content children are exposed to and engaging in conversations about the accuracy and reliability of online information.
Finally, educators need to teach critical thinking skills to children from a young age. Teach them how to evaluate sources of information and discern fact from fiction online.
In conclusion, algorithms are powerful tools that have the potential to shape the way children see the world. While they can have positive effects, such as exposing children to new ideas and perspectives, they can also have negative consequences, such as promoting harmful content and reinforcing negative beliefs. By being more transparent about how algorithms work, being more involved in children’s social media use, and teaching critical thinking skills, we can help mitigate the adverse effects of algorithms and create a safer and more positive online environment for children.
Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.
