Mobile Bay Parents December 2019 by KeepSharing

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ASMS is a public residential high school for academically talented sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in mathematics, science, and humanities. Find out how the Alabama School of Math and Science can lead you on a path to success. Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! While being surrounded by likeminded individuals who share a desire to learn, ASMS students have access to hands-on, experiential learning focused on research and collaboration. Students take a variety of college-level courses in Math, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, History, English, Communication, Physical Education, and Fine Arts. Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.2100.

• Early College Experience • Dedicated Instructors • Diverse Community • Leadership Opportunities • Experiential Learning

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ADVANCED ACCREDITED

December2019 4

Volume 9 Number 9

Columns

Publisher’s Note 4

Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Therapeutic Parenting Find encouragement and a knowing that you aren’t alone on this hard road that is parenting.

Parenting the Video Game Fanatic

How to encourage other interests.

Kids Health Watch sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

34 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Get This!

Keep the Hush in Your Holiday Rush

Ways to stay relaxed all season!

Holiday Happenings

Mobile holiday parades, lights, musicals and more!

Gerry Paige Smith

Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

On The Cover Caden (11), Emerson (9), Harper (6) and Charlotte (2), son and daughters of Spencer and Mitzi Wiggins. Proud grandparents are Mark and Marti Sloke. Caden plays baseball, football and basketball. Emerson plays softball, basketball, soccer, runs cross-country and enjoys taking horse riding lessons. Harper plays soccer and takes dance at Debbie’s School of Dance. She also cheers for her school. Charlotte takes ballet at Debbie’s School of Dance.

Departments 6

Bits and Pieces 12

School Bits 56

Family Calendar 60

Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

FromthePublisher

Mobile Bay Mobile Bay’s Foremost Parenting Source

Some years my family celebrates Thanksgiving early. This was a solution we came up with so the whole family could be together on the year my siblings spent Thanksgiving with their in-laws. The years that we do celebrate early leaves me with a whole week to do whatever I need (and want) to accomplish without the worry of pre-Thanksgiving prep. Typically, I will work on some household projects and put up Christmas decorations. However, each year I do have hopes of accomplishing my “ideal” Thanksgiving day which looks something like this: A morning to sleep in a bit, a wonderful brunch while watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, then an afternoon of holiday decorating finished up with homemade sugar cookies and a Christmas movie. Sounds crazy perfect, right? Well, I would not know because this ideal day has yet to happen. Last year nobody was really hungry for brunch so I watched the parade on the elliptical at the gym (which was probably a better idea anyway). Next, we scoured the paper for Black Friday deals with the girls. We talked about the Christmas decorations, but that was about it. Then, at some point, we naively thought it would be a good idea to check out the Thursday night sales. That ended up being more of a spectator sport for us. I definitely did not get any shopping done. My hat is off to those of you who did. That takes some patience, planning and skill! So the Thanksgiving holiday week came and went, and so did my perfect little plan. But that’s okay. I still was able to spend some fun, quality time with Brad and the kiddos. Thanksgiving day seems to be the perfect start to the Christmas season. Usually that leaves us about a month to plan, decorate, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday. But, with Thanksgiving being so late this year, I am feeling like I am already starting the holiday season behind schedule and not sure when I am going to fit all of this in. If your household is anything like mine, December is quickly filled with performances, exams, and other commitments, not to mention the decorating, cooking and other festivities. If I’m not careful, the busyness can quickly suck out all of the fun. If you too find yourself frazzled during the holidays, flip to page 44, where you will find 21 Ways To Keep The Hush In Your Holiday Rush, by Christina Katz. Hopefully by trimming out some of the more stressful to-dos you can make room for more of the things that will build fond holiday memories with your family. You will find an abundance of joyful holiday events in this year’s Holiday Happenings Guide on page 47. This guide is filled with many events perfect for creating memories with your loved ones. Parades, live nativities, light shows, concerts, ice skating, and yes, even snow are some of the exciting activities found in this year’s guide. Make sure you also flip over to the Family Calendar for even more December events. Whether you are out shopping ‘til you drop or just taking in the sights and sounds of Christmas, please do remember those in need who may be struggling financially or emotionally. Make it a family priority to give back this holiday season. It doesn’t matter if you have a million dollars to give or just a smile, you never know how a simple act of kindness may turn someone’s day around. May God bless you and your family with peace, love and joy this holiday season.

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

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@mobilebayparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@mobilebayparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Lucy Green Contributing Writers Jennifer Adair, M.D. Mark Gregston Christina Katz Cheryl Maguire Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dave Ramsey Gerry Paige Smith

Cover Photography Hannah Stinson www.hannahstinsonphotography.com

President Jason Watson Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton ads@mobilebayparents.com (251) 304-1200 Account Manager Eleanor Williams Ad Design Tim Welch

Lynn

Visit us at www.mobilebayparents.com Mobile Bay Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 81105, Mobile, Alabama, 36689. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 304-1200. Mobile Bay Parents is copyrighted 2018 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Mobile Bay Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

lynn@mobilebayparents.com

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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

The Hard Road of Parenting I think there is some unspoken expectation that exists when you author a monthly parenting column. An expectation that the author’s own children will be positively delightful at all hours of the day, that the children spend their free time tutoring each other in Latin, and they work toward peace in the Middle East in their free time instead of playing video games. Well, let me just implode that perception for you right now. Just last week I had the (ahem) privilege of finding out that one of my precious darlings said something incredibly hurtful and ugly to another child. And it is hard. And it is frustrating. And it is maddening and embarrassing. I had ALL the feelings that day. It reminded me of a day a few years ago when I ran into a friend in a grocery store and, in the midst of friendly small talk and catching up, I asked her how her kids were and she immediately burst into ugly cry tears. Turns out, she was on her way to the school – the principal had just called and she had been holding it in trying to just get through the checkout line.

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

I tell you all of this to say – I get it. We all get it. Rarely does a parent walk this hard road of parenting and arrive at Destination Adulthood completely unscathed by something that happened with their child. Maybe it’s a teenager who crashed his car into an ambulance within the first six months of driving (personal true story), maybe it’s the middle schooler who skipped first period to go hang out with friends instead of doing Algebra (personal true story), maybe it’s the toddler that had to be carried out of the store kicking and screaming after breaking every last pickle jar in the aisle. Whatever it is we have all either been there – or we are headed there. So it is my encouragement to you, fellow parenting warriors, that we all realize our children are going to screw it up, they are going to get things wrong, they are going to do or say things they should not. And oddly, that’s ok. That’s the process of childhood. It is our role as their parents to love and lead and guide and disciple

and train and teach them in the way they should go. So often we think we should be “good enough” to prevent them from making mistakes in the first place, and I would encourage you to challenge that line of thinking. You are good enough. But predicting and mitigating every last mistake your kids are going to make before they happen is just unrealistic and tends to do little else than heap coals of shame and guilt upon our heads. So in the words of Taylor Swift, shake it off. Be available to your children, be their soft place to land in this world of hard, be thoughtful and intentional in your response to their mistakes, and always remember that you have a crowd of other parents cheering you on. And hey, if you have to cry in the middle of the grocery store, cry. They have a whole aisle of tissues just waiting for you. Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to mitigate negative behaviors. She is the Director of Central Alabama for Lifeline Children’s Services and is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted and she is a foster parent.

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Holiday Cheer at The FIVE

Wine & Wishes 2019

Holiday Cheer at The FIVE to benefit the Child Advocacy Center will be held on Monday, December 9 from 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM. The FIVE Restaurant will host the event at 609 Dauphin Street in downtown Mobile. The event will feature samplings of The FIVE’s signature dishes and wines to taste, along with a select live auction of holiday gifts and live music by Jerry Squires. Tickets will be available at the FIVE and the CAC for $35 each. Call 432-1101 for details or www.cacmobile.org and follow us on Facebook. Some auction items are: Santa Baby Package, Jingle Bell Package, Girly Girl package, Manly Man package, and a Mistletoe Package.

Join us for the 3rd Annual Wine & Wishes on Thursday, December 5 at the Ezell House from 6:309:30 PM, benefiting Make a Wish Alabama! Dress in your favorite cocktail attire and enjoy heavy horsd'oeuvres, an amazing open wine and beer bar, and live music to dance to all night long! This year's event will also feature a cork pull. The event will help raise funds to grant the wishes of local children battling life-threatening medical conditions. Please visit www.eventbrite.com/e/wine-wishes-2019tickets-73138815165 for tickets.

Mobile Ballet Announces "The Nutcracker" 2019

Children’s YouTube sensation Blippi announces the first-ever tour across North America, with a date at the Mobile Saenger Theatre on Wednesday, February 5. Blippi Live! is set to bring the vivacious, energetic, and educational children’s character from the screen to the stage for an all-ages extravaganza of fun, dancing, singing and meeting amazing new friends onstage. Fans can visit www.blippilive.com now for tour dates, ticket information and one-of-a-kind meet and greet packages. Ticket Prices: $21.50-$49.50. Purchase tickets at bit.ly/blippimob or in person at the Saenger Theatre Box Office or the Mobile Civic Center Box Office. For information regarding accessible seating tickets, call 251-208-7381. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

December brings Mobile Ballet’s lavish holiday tradition of “The Nutcracker” – pairing Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece with fresh choreography from Artistic Director Katia Garza and featuring world renowned Guest Artists Lilliana Hagerman and Lamin Pereira of Kansas City Ballet as Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier, as well as Paul Branco as the Nutcracker. The Mobile Ballet Company will also be joined by dancers from the entire community – with open auditions for traditional favorites including Party Girls, Soldiers, Bon Bons and more! This is a favorite for all ages. Performances will be held at Mobile Civic Center Theater on Saturday, December 14 at 2:30 & 7:30 PM and Sunday, December 15 at 2:30 PM. Purchase tickets online at www.mobileballet.org. For more information call (251) 342-2241.

Blippi Live! Announces North American Tour

And the Winner is…

Congratulations to Brantley Finch, the winner of the Saraland Chamber of Commerce "Best Costume" contest! Brantley is nothing short of a miracle. He has special needs, cerebral palsy and epilepsy, which results in him not having control of his head or trunk yet and goes to physical therapy weekly. He’s not defined by his special needs, he’s simply Brantley. Brantley is pictured here with his brother Braylen, mom Katlyn and dad Brett Finch. www.mobilebayparents.com

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Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath

It’s one of the nation’s best holiday light shows, and it’s right here in south Alabama! Bellingrath Gardens and Home presents the 24th season of Magic Christmas in Lights in 2019. The dazzling nighttime display features more than 1,100 set pieces, 3 million lights and 15 scenes, set out in a walking tour throughout the 65-acre Garden estate. The show is open nightly through December 31, 2019 (closed on Christmas and New Year’s Days). Purchase tickets on bellingrath.org, or at the door when you arrive.

Bay Bash 2019

Bay Bash, an annual celebration of the beauty, health, and heritage of Mobile Bay and our coastal communities, will take place on December 5, 2019 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at GulfQuest Maritime Museum and will feature local restaurants and caterers, cocktails, live entertainment and a silent art auction. Mobile Oyster Co., Noble South, Carrabba’s, Creative Catering, Dew Drop Inn, Felix’s Fish Camp, Wintzell’s Oyster House, Cammie’s Old Dutch, and Pollman’s Bake Shop will all be serving signature local dishes. Guests will enjoy a special performance by the Eastern Shore Repertory Theater and live music from Yo Jonesy and her Crowned Jewelz Band. Cocktail attire. Ages 21+. To purchase tickets and learn more about the event, visit mobilebaykeeper.org/bay-bash.

This holiday season will be brighter than ever with the addition of the City of Mobile’s giant Christmas Tree in Cooper Riverside Park and our new interactive tree in Bienville Square! Live Oak Live! is a tree in the square wrapped in lights that responds to sound; bands, choirs and solo performances. It's the live oak that comes to life with your input! Anyone is welcome to bring the tree to life so come join the fun!

Dance...

d er, m n er s

Live Oak Live - The Tree You Bring to Life!

its about more than the steps.

Confident, Ambitious, Focused and Happy!

Call or register online at debbiesdance.com

633-9559 MON-THUR 2-6 pm

6429 Hillcrest Park Ct. • Mobile, AL • 251.633.9559 Ballet • Pointe • Tap • Jazz • Tumbling • Contemporary • Hip Hop 7

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Krewe of Kindness Announces Second Annual Mardi Gras Ball to Promote Wellness and Inclusion for Those With Special Needs

Krewe of Kindness, a local non-profit organization, will host their second annual family-friendly Mardi Gras- style ball titled “Be Our Guest” from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2020 at The Pillars in Mobile. This formal event will include a traditional tableau honoring Queen Shandy Oliver (24) and King Art Cronenberg III (44). The event will also provide food, drinks and music along with other activities that will ensure a night of fun to please all ages. The ultimate mission behind Krewe of Kindness is to provide support and assistance to people with special, non-medical needs to enable those to lead healthy and active lifestyles while also emphasizing the importance of inclusion and acceptance within the community. All funds will be directed toward several key projects such as, purchasing an additional 100-foot wheelchair accessible beach mat for the town of Dauphin Island, acquiring sewing materials for the Ryan’s Case for Smiles pillowcase project benefitting children at USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital, providing funding for challenged athletes to participate in activities such as wheelchair racing, hand cycling, and adaptive water skiing, and offering financial support to the Sea Stars program, a special needs science camp through the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Early bird admission is currently available for $25 per person through Dec. 1. Formal dress is required and children are encouraged to dress as their favorite prince or princess. For more information on how to purchase tickets, sponsor or donate, please visit www.facebook.com/ kreweofkindness/ or www.kreweofkindness.com. Prince Charming and Cinderella posed with Delaney Zimlich (13) and Gavin Sims (13), who served as the first queen and king, during the Krewe of Kindness charity ball which was held in January 2019. Zimlich and Sims are close friends who were born with spina bifida. Photo Credit: Michael Dumas Image Arts.

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MMOFA’s Popular Children’s Exhibition Opens with New Interactive Elements

Mobile Museum of Art’s popular children’s exhibition, FOR CHILDREN 2020, opens Saturday, December 14, with new interactive elements and revamped installations. The exhibition, which first opened in December 2018, presents a maze of galleries, specifically designed for kids to immerse themselves in creative and wacky visual environments. New additions include a giant Lite Brite, video projections, miniature environments designed by local artists, and different themed rooms, all designed to teach children the basic elements of creative art and design. The Winter Wonderland-themed opening party on December 14, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., is only open to Mobile Museum of Art members and is kid-friendly, with art activities provided by the Museum School, face painting, a bouncy house, food trucks, and lots of fun just in time for the holidays. This exhibition will open to the public the following Tuesday, December 17, with regular general admission plus a special exhibition fee of $5 per person and $3 for children ages 6 and below. www.MobileMuseumofArt.com

Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama Expands Reach with Five New Club Locations

Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama (BGCSA) in its current capacity operates seven Clubs serving just over 4,200 young people yearly throughout Mobile County. In September, BGCSA was awarded a $675,000 grant for three years to open 5 new Clubs through the 21st Century CCLC program by the Alabama State Dept. of Education. “This is an exciting time for our organization as we look to serve more young people in Mobile County,” says Tim Wills, Chief Executive Officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama. “This grant gives us the ability to not only help kids achieve academically, but also develop good character & living a healthy lifestyle. It’s our opportunity to help young people right where they are, in the places where they need us most, in their schools and in their community.” What is also important to note is, BGCSA received the largest grant allocation in the state and the only sites funded in Mobile. That is a testament to the quality of work Boys & Girls Clubs has been doing for the last 62 years. The launch of these new sites is part of a renewed effort by BGCSA to do whatever it takes to serve youth and teens. Having that “Whatever It Takes” mentality brings to life the multitude of experiences and opportunities a young person receives at BGCSA and the skills they build along the way. As of Today, BGCSA estimates an additional 450+ youth per day will have access to a Boys & Girls Club expanding their reach to approximately 5000 youth served. These new “Great Futures Academy” Clubs will be located at: Calloway Smith Middle School, Mobile County Training School (Middle), Hollinger's Island Elementary, Meadowlake Elementary, Chastang - Fournier K-8.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

The Dangers of Toxic Stress, Part 2 Last month we discussed the definition of toxic stress: basically occurrences, large or small, that make a person’s brain think they are in danger. This leads to a “fight or flight” neurological pathway staying activated much more often than it should be. Which in turn, leads to neurons in the brain rewiring, creating sometimes life-long changes. This month we will talk about some ways to decrease toxic stress or help your child navigate unavoidable stressors to try and create a healthier brain as he or she grows. The goal to treat toxic stress is to decrease stressors, improve a child’s response to stressors, and strengthen a child’s resiliency, feeling of security and confidence. From a child’s time as an infant, she is aware of love and security. When she cries, she is either reassured when someone picks her up and feeds her or knows she has to stay stressed if her needs are not met. Toddlers have the important job of exploring their world and learning independence and what is safe. It is good to allow them to be ex-

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

posed to stressors such as falling down when learning to walk, listening and minding adults even if it is not something they want to do, and learning to play with kids their age - tantrums and all! Trying to instruct toddlers while ensuring they know you love them and want what is best for them will reduce toxic stress. As school-age children navigate school, friends, bullies, teachers, and sports, they need role models who will teach them positive coping skills to deal with stress, learn appropriate ways to deal with people, and continue to keep them safe and learn to navigate as their world gets bigger. If your child is having to deal with a major stressor such as death of a family member or friend, parents’ divorce, or moving cities, be sure to reassure him that he is still loved, important, and safe. If your child or someone you know has had to deal with severe stressors such as neglect and abuse and violence, it is of utmost importance to get that child to a safe environment. That may seem obvious - but the lack of help in situations like these can cause

lifelong consequences of anxiety, depression, future violence from the child, school problems, and fewer chances to be a happy, successful adult. Rearing your child is the most important task you will ever have. We are seeing that completely sheltering your child from any stress does not prepare them for adulthood. The inverse, like we have discussed, of too much toxic stress will cause harm as well. So trying to limit large stressors at young ages, and teaching your child through love while making them feel safe how to handle age-appropriate problems when they arise is the best way to allow your child’s brain to develop properly and set them up for success. Jennifer Adair, M.D., was born and raised in Mobile. She joined Children’s Medical Group in July 2013 and currently practices at their Airport office. Jennifer and her husband, Cory, reside in Mobile with their son, Finn, and their three dogs, Barkley, Fitz, and Roo.

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Autauga County Schools

Causey Builders Club Serves the Community

The Causey Builders Club serves the community in various ways and through many local community events. Recently, the Builders Club collected socks for the homeless through Socktober in the month of October. Over 625 pairs of socks were collected. The socks, which are the number one item requested by the homeless, were collected for Project Homeless Connect. They will be given to the homeless the end of January. The club has also served hot meals a couple of times at Redeemer CafĂŠ on Wednesdays.

JROTC Cadets Compete on Obstacle Courses

Teams of JROTC cadets from 10 high schools raced through the woods, climbed walls, jumped through tires, crawled through the mud and carried medical equipment and ruck sacks recently as part of the Raider Challenge. The obstacle courses were built by students at Bryant Career-Technical Center. Theodore High won the competition with Murphy High coming in second.

Century Bank in Tillman's Corner sponsored a Coloring Contest for Griggs Kindergarten students. Congratulations to the winners! 1st place Colonel "Carson" Weaver; 2nd place Paytin Chapman; 3rd place Kyler Surrett.

Denton Book Tasting

Denton Magnet School of Technology students participated in a "book tasting" a few weeks ago. Mrs. Quinones, the Library Media Specialist, organized the book tasting as a way for students to preview the latest books received. Students were exposed to a variety of genres, some that they would not necessarily choose on their own. The event was a huge success with students putting many of the books on hold so they could read them, and now there is even a waiting list. "Today a reader, tomorrow a leader." - Margaret Fuller

Collier Students Collect Halloween Candy for Veterans and Soldiers

New Teachers at Burns Middle School

Burns Middle School welcomes new teachers to the Blazer Staff. Pictured front row: Ms. Brice, Mrs. Wasdin, Mrs. Gates, Mrs. Stewart, Mrs. Johnson. Back row: Mr. Rydell, Mrs. Morris, Mrs. Panchenko, Mrs. Gavin and Mr. Stone.

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

Griggs Coloring Contest Winners

Collier Elementary would like to say a big thank you to one of our sister schools, Eichold-Mertz Elementary! They dropped off three packed boxes of candy for Mrs. Imsandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kindergarten Class Service ProjectOperation Gratitude Halloween Candy GiveBack. These are sweet treats for our heroes serving overseas and our veterans here at home. www.mobilebayparents.com

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MGM Honors Veterans

On Friday, November 8, Mary G. Montgomery honored veterans with this year’s Veterans Day assembly “Let Freedom Ring.” The MGM Ensemble sang patriotic songs while the Wind Ensemble honored all branches of the United States military with its performance of “Armed Forces Salute.” Guests were further moved by Viking Daily’s video, which presented veterans’ thoughts on their military experience and this year’s theme. The highlight of the Veterans Day assembly was the delivery of speeches by this year’s oratorical winners: 3rd place Xavier Krause and MaKayla Mosley, 2nd place Sydney Alexander, and 1st place Payton Stoneburner. Special thanks to Mike and Genevieve Dardeau for sponsoring this competition and BoCameron Lampley and Makayla Anderson for emceeing the assembly.

Eichold-Mertz Principal Named in Top 10 Principals in US

Michelle Dubose Adams, principal of Eichold-Mertz School of Math, Science & Technology, has been awarded the Terrell H. Bell Award for Outstanding School Leadership by the U.S. Department of Education, identifying her as one of the top 10 principals in the United States. Eichold-Mertz recently became Mobile County Public Schools’ 14th National Blue Ribbon School, the most of any system in the state. In recognition of her achievements, the Mobile City Council declared Nov. 5 as Michelle DuBose Adams Day in her honor.

Read for the Record at Kate Shepard ES

Kate Shepard Elementary celebrated Read for the Record this year with several guest readers. The story was “Thank You, Omu” about a woman who cooked a pot of red stew and shared it with the community. All of our guests wore aprons to represent the main character.

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Phillips Prep Red Ribbon Leader

Congratulations Jalyn Johnson on being this year's recipient of the Red Ribbon Award. Jalyn was nominated by the Phillips Preparatory School teachers as a student who exemplifies the six pillars of Character Education: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.

Autauga County Schools Little

Flower Students Perform at Hispanic Festival

Students from Little Flower Catholic School and family members took part in the annual Hispanic Festival by dancing in traditional

dress on stage for the appreciative crowd.

“Go Fish – The Musical” at Old Shell Road School

Old Shell Road School of Creative and Performing Arts second- and third-grade classes presented "Go Fish - The Musical" on November 5 and 7 at Murphy High School. Every student participated in set design and performed through song, dance, and drama.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month.

MGM Attends Troy University’s J-Day Event

McGill-Toolen Cheer Champs!

On Tuesday, October 22, Mary G. Montgomery’s Viking Daily and Valhalla staff members attended Troy University’s J-Day event. Students attended sessions related to yearbook design, marketing, broadcast journalism, TV news broadcast, reporting, editing, and much more. In addition to attending sessions, students also competed in broadcasting and yearbook competitions. Viking Daily received a first place award for TV editorial while Valhalla received first place awards in both Best Typography and Best Design and a second place award for Best Overall Yearbook.

Congratulations to McGill-Toolen Catholic Varsity Cheer for winning the 7A Southern Super Regional Cheer Competition. They will compete at State on December 14th. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

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Local Heroes Visit St. Dominic Catholic School

St. Dominic Catholic School thanks our Mobile Area Fire Department for taking time to visit with the students. Pictured is first grade student, Harper Watson, having a great time shooting off the water hose! The kids enjoy meeting our local heroes!

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Celebrates Super Reader Week

Cottage Hill Christian Academy hosted the 4th Annual Super Reader Week on November 4-8. This year’s theme was “Readers Hit the Right Note: An Integration of Reading and Music.” Throughout the week, volunteers from the community read books to CHCA preschool and elementary classes. Guest readers excited the students with their favorite books, snacks, and musical instruments. The week culminated with Super Reader Night, as students and their families visited decorated story rooms, completed crafts, and jumped on inflatables. World renowned ballerina Katia Garza, the Artistic Director of Mobile Ballet, delighted the audience with her reading of “The Nutcracker Ballet”. Super Reader Week was a wonderful experience for preschool and elementary students to appreciate the value, beauty, and joy of reading.

St. Paul’s Cheerleaders Headed to State

The St. Paul’s Varsity Cheerleaders had an outstanding performance at the AHSAA South Super Regional Cheer competition! They will now proceed to the AHSAA State Finals held in Hanceville at Wallace State Community College on December 14. Go Saints!

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Autauga County Schools

Mobile Christian School’s Alumni of the Year Congratulations, Kristin Hatcher and Ashley Barnes, for being named Mobile Christian School’s 2019 Alumni of the Year. Thank you for everything that you do for your MCS family.

UMS-Wright Honors Local Heroes on First Responders Day UMS-Wright observed First Responders Day on October 28, 2019. This was a time for us to show our gratitude to the men and women who risk their lives daily on our behalf. Our Lower School students invited these local heroes for lunch and surprised them with cards of gratitude. UMS-Wright would like to thank the members of the Sheriff’s Department, the Fire Department, Mobile’s Police Officers, and all first responders who so selflessly serve our community.

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St. Vincent de Paul STAR Student of the Month

St. Vincent de Paul is proud to announce that Kailani Mulkey is this month's STAR student. Not only is Kailani a great student academically, she also exemplifies every value that St. Vincent de Paul School holds dear. Kailani is the future leader we all hope for.

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Life South Gives Phlebotomy Lesson at St. Luke’s

St. Luke's Biomedical Health Science's Biomed II class recently completed their phlebotomy and venipuncture unit. They located and marked the veins in their forearms. Life South also came for a phlebotomy lesson and taught us that giving blood at least twice each year will reduce your chance of a heart attack or stroke by 25%! Who knew?

SHE ONCE BUILT A FORT SO LARGE, THAT IT UTILIZED EVERY BLANKET, TOWEL, AND CHAIR IN THE WHOLE HOUSE.

CHILDREN A M A Z E U S E V E R Y D AY

and at Children’s of Alabama, we want to see every child grow up and live to their fullest potential.

Old Shell Students Perform at Music Educators Music Festival

Ten students from Old Shell Road Magnet School attended the Alabama Music Educators Association Annual Music Festival in Montgomery on October 18. They attended an all-day choir rehearsal with other elementary choir students from around the state, and they performed in a beautiful concert that evening. Back row left to right: Lily Northington, Kailim Windham, Lily Kate Schultz, Kinsley Johnson, Aadin Ward. Front row left to right: Mei-Ling Rollman, Ka'lara McAlmon, Darrion Apkins, Kenya Stallworth, Dade Suarez.

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Looking for the Letter “L” at Covenant Christian

Covenant Christian School’s K4 class is most definitely enjoying the cooler weather! Mrs. Carnall took them outside on a leaf hunt for the letter “L”. 17

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Autauga County Schools Collier Students Decorate Boxes

St. Paul’s Junior Service Day for Troops and Veterans

for Thanksgiving Basket Drive

Miss Boykin’s third grade students painted and decorated 9 boxes for Collier Elementary School’s Thanksgiving Basket Drive. Students from every grade level are collecting Thanksgiving dinner essentials, and the beautiful, filled boxes will be donated to families in need!

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St. Paul’s Junior Class had a glorious service day on Wednesday, November 6th. The students began the day with short talks from the Head of School and military veteran, Blair Fisher, and parent, Sylvie Rihner, who established the nonprofit Dixie Rear Detachment to supply care packages to deployed troops. Juniors wrote letters to be mailed to troops, and divided into groups to pack snack bags, make holiday cards, color troop insignia banners, prep bags and boxes, and sort food. Once all these tasks were completed the students and chaperones boarded busses to head to the Veterans Cemetery in Bay Minette, where they placed over 2000 flags in celebration of Veterans Day.

Allentown Elementary School October GATOR Kids

Pre-K – 2nd Grade: Front Row – Margaret Franklin, Zoe Cowart, Javani Callegari, London Gunn, Hunter Pierce, Cooper Williams; Middle Row – Jaelyn Freeny, Journey Hirsch, Hannah Morrell, Elizabeth Taylor, Elliot Gehlken; Back Row – Harmoni Feggins, Mursheed Alabi, Jennifer Lozoya, Jordan Gilley, Brayden Thomas, Zoey Cabugawan. 3rd – 5th Grade: Front Row – Diallo Sashington, Reese Smith, MaKenzie Johnson, Jachin Pace, Gabby Stein; Middle Row – Kiersten Inman, Christine Wilkinson, Emily Miller, Starren Dayze, Haleigh Hadley, Heaven Hacker; Back Row – Carson Blair, Amelia Broach, Sabrina Martin, Lylah Richardson, Eli Pesnell.

Mobile Christian Homecoming Queen

Mobile Christian’s 2019 Homecoming queen Ms. Lauren Williamson. Congratulations Lauren!

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

Davidson Culinary Team Competes at World Food Championships

The Warrior Culinary team was recently invited to compete in the World Food Championships in Dallas, TX. The team finished with an overall score of 88–only 10 points away from the 1st place winners at the World Food Championships! While the team didn’t place overall, they stood out with their signature dish, fish rangoons, which scored higher than some of the professional chefs! They also got some last minute assistance from 1983 Davidson Alum Chef Diane Roark, current chef for Wal-Mart. 18

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Burns Middle School Teacher Receives Literacy Award

Congratulations to Ms. Plovanich for receiving the Mobile Literacy Award.

Prichard Prep Honor Roll Parade

All students who made the A and A-B Honor Roll for 1st Quarter were invited to participate in the parade! A huge THANK YOU to the LeFlore High School Band, Cheerleaders, Flag Corps and Dance Team for making the parade so special and fun! Good job everyone! #PPSEagles #LeFloreRattlers #HonorRoll

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DECEMBER 14, 10 AM - 1 PM Griggs Robotics Team Competes at “Bots on the Beach”

Griggs VEX Robotics Team competed in their first ever competition and made it to the finals! Team members pictured: Mrs. Bolton (Sponsor), Mrs. Ellzey (Sponsor), Lillian Strange, Ryker Hoppe, Sara Roland, Ellie Ouisy, Izzy DeGregorio, Eithon Sutley. The team will compete again in December!

Mobile Museum of Art’s popular children’s exhibition is getting some major updates, including more interactive elements, a giant LITE BRITE, and revamped installations! Purchase a FAMILY MEMBERSHIP and join us for the kid-friendly, Winter Wonderland themed opening party on December 14, with art activities, a bouncy house, and lots of fun, just in time for the holidays.

For more information & to join, visit www.MobileMuseumofArt.com/forchildren This exhibition is generously sponsored by The Crampton Trust MOBILE MUSEUM OF ART 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, AL 36608 251.208.5200 www.MobileMuseumofArt.com

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Little Flower Toy Bowl Court

Congratulations to the 2019 Little Flower Catholic School Toy Bowl Court. These students will be participating in the Toy Bowl Court festivities which include Mass, banquet and presentation at the Toy Bowl Tournament. Back row: Angelo Mendez, Chris Villareal, Bryce Wells, Alby Lopuhovski; Front row: Ansleigh Tew, Alaiyah Robinson, Tierra Martin, Jazmyn Lang.

St. Luke’s Scholar’s Bowl Team Undefeated

St. Luke's Varsity Scholar’s Bowl team recently went undefeated against BC Rain, Satsuma, Cottage Hill, and Theodore, outscoring their opponents 1125-210!

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St. Dominic Red Ribbon Leader

St. Dominic Catholic School congratulates Addison Whigham, our Red Ribbon Week Leader. During her speech, she asked students to pledge and promise to live drug free. "I pledge allegiance to myself, and to who I want to be because I can make my dreams come true if I believe in me. I pledge to stay in school and learn the things I need to know. To make the world a better place for kids like me to grow. I pledge to keep my dreams alive and be all that I can be. I know I can and that's because I pledge to stay drug free." Addison is pictured with principal, Mrs. Laurie Michener.

A post-secondary educational experience for students with intellectual disabilities aged 1825 focused on attaining individualized goals in employment and independent living.

CONTACT: Alexandra Chanto-Wetter (251)460-7558 | chantowetter@southalabama.edu

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Environment Studies Center Calendar Artwork Winners

Some very talented students from across Mobile County had their artwork selected for an Environmental Studies Center calendar. First place winners by age group were: Roselin Vittor, eight-grader, Clark-Shaw School of Math and Science; Rae Beck, fifth-grader, Mary B. Austin Elementary; and Nate Truitt, third-grader, Meadowlake Elementary. The calendars are available for purchase inside the Environmental Studies Center gift shop.

Phillips Preparatory IB Design Classes

Design Thinking encourages students to work through all problems in every aspect of their lives. Ms. Lang and Mrs. Eiland also encourage their students to look for problems to solve in hopes that students will identify their area of talents and possibly become entrepreneurs. Their students are proficient in Google Classroom using Google Docs, Slides, Sites, and Drawings. All of these are the current tools needed for business and presentations. Students have also collaborated on one Google Doc to come up with plans in order to create their final solution. Students also us the Oculus Go to conduct research! Design is relative, relatable, relevant, and so much FUN!

Advance tickets available online and at the Gardens. NOVEMBER 29 – DECEMBER 31 5 – 9 PM Closed Christmas and New Year’s Days

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Autauga County Schools

North Mobile Christian Volleyball Team Defeats Knollwood

St. Dominic Golden Eagle Extravaganza a Huge Success

North Mobile Christian Lady Crusaders WON against Knollwood in 3 sets: Set 1 25-18 Knollwood; Set 2 25-12 NMCS; Set 3 15-11 NMCS! They have worked so hard and done so well this year! Congratulations 2019 Volleyball Season and Tournament Champions! GO CRUSADERS!

St. Dominic Catholic School teachers dressed up in their best 80's themed attire for our 2019 Golden Eagle Extravaganza. The annual fundraising event was a huge success, doubling the amount raised from the previous year! We love our Eagle family and are thankful for their support. Pictured are Ms. Printz, 2nd grade teacher, Mrs. Bishop, PreK 4 teacher, Mrs. Midgette, PreK 4 teacher, Mrs. Thompson, technology teacher, and Mrs. Hess, 8th grade Literature teacher.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month.

St. Paul’s Seventh Graders Spookify Wilmer Hall

To prepare for a Halloween party for the children who live at Wilmer Hall, sponsor Sawyer House took St. Paul’s Seventh Grade Rutledge Fellows Taylor O’Dell, Braxton Byrd, Mitchell Jackson, Audrey Kate Smith, Mendalyn Barber, Ella Brochu, Joanna Hijaz, Mary Catherine Williford, Emma Gage, and Amelia Rockwell over to decorate on Wednesday, October 30th. The students helped set up a costume photo booth, and completely cobwebbed an old house, adding spiders and skeletons as well!

St. Ignatius Raises over $16,000 for CYO Sports

Crocktoberfest at Corpus Christi Catholic School

The teachers at Corpus Christi Catholic School celebrated "CrocktoberFest" the last week of October. Each day a group of teachers brought in their favorite Crock-Pot dish to share, and everyone had an opportunity to vote on their favorite meal. The teacher whose meal received the most votes was crowned "Queen of the CrocktoberFest." This year's winner was 3rd-grade teacher, Mrs. DeeDee Piccicci.

St. Ignatius was well represented at Toy Bowl this year. The students raised over $16,000 for CYO sports. All the students were at the Toy Bowl Ceremony on November 2 at the Lipscomb Sports Complex.

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

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UMS-Wright Observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In October, UMS-Wright observed Breast Cancer Awareness Month in honor of one of our devoted faculty members, Vicky Bedsole who is battling this horrible disease. At the Battle of Old Shell Road Swim Meet, swimmers from St. Paul’s Episcopal School, McGillToolen Catholic School and UMS-Wright surprised Coach Bedsole and wore customized pink swim caps to commemorate the day.

Mobile Opera Performs at St. Luke’s

Mobile Opera recently performed “Enchanted Forest” for St. Luke's students on the lower campus. The students LOVED every minute of the performance!

Faith Academy Football Team Named Region 1 Champs

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Faith Academy is having a record-breaking football season. The varsity football team ended the regular season 10-0. They are the 5A Region 1 champs. The Middle school football team had a record of 9-0 and won the Middle School Championship this year. Way to go Rams! Pictured is the Faith Academy Middle School football team and coaches after winning the championship game.

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Autauga County Schools

Learning about Sound Waves at Little Flower

First grade students at Little Flower Catholic School learned about vibrations and sound by making their very own string phones! Although the phone messages were a bit hard to hear, the lesson about sound waves came through loud and clear.

MGM Theatre Advances to State

Mary G. Montgomery’s theatre group recently competed at the 2019 District Five Trumbauer Theatre Festival. They received the following awards: Best Ensemble; Best Costumes; Best Actor – Jalen Wilson; Best Actress – Heidi Wilson; Best Supporting Actors and Actresses from the One Acts – Celia Knox, Jade Wilson, and Caleb Andrus; and All Star Cast. Additionally, they received 30 superior rating advancements to the state competition. Congratulations, MGM Theatre, and good luck at state!

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month.

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Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

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Prichard Prep Spelling Bee Winners

The Prichard Prep Annual Spelling Bee was recently conducted. We would like to congratulate our 4th Grade winner, Madilyn TaylorGrayson and our 5th Grade winner, Jordyn Bassa, who is a repeat winner! Thank you to Mrs. Barker who coordinates the program and took Madilyn and Jordyn to the AISA District Spelling Bee on November 13th. Thank you also to Ms. Ruhde and Mrs. Hubbard for judging the contest. Pictured L – R: Jordyn Bassa, Madilyn Taylor-Grayson. We are so proud of all of the students who participated. The 4th Grade Contestants were: Stinson Payne, Madilyn Taylor-Grayson, Brandon Mauldin, Amir Populus, Jacobi Tipton, and Marlli Allen. The 5th Grade Contestants were: Elisha Brown, Roderick Belton, and Jordyn Bassa. Last but not least thank you to the family and friends who supported their students by being there! Great job everyone! #PrichardPrep #SpellingBee #EaglesSoared

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Faith Academy Prepares Christmas Boxes for Children in Guatemala

Faith Academy worked to collect over 1,6oo Christmas boxes to send to Guatemala. Every class participated and prayed over their boxes as they packed them. The Senior class alone brought in over 260 boxes and raised enough money to pay the $5 shipping for all their boxes. There will be a mission team going to Guatemala this coming summer to help disperse the boxes to the children of Guatemala. Pictured is an 11th grade Bible class helping K3 pack boxes.

The world could use a few more Saints. St. Paul’s Episcopal School is accepting applications for the 2020-2021 school year. Please contact our Admissions Office at 251.461.2131 or admissions@stpaulsmobile.net if you would like enrollment information or to schedule a campus tour!

Know What Matters.

161 Dogwood Lane | Mobile, Alabama 36608 | stpaulsmobile.net

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Autauga County Schools

UMS-Wright Service Trip to Camp Grace

Each year, UMS-Wright’s 8th graders spend a week at Camp Grace to take part in bonding activities as a class and to complete a service project. They participated in a high ropes course, played games together, and built items to be sold for charity. This year, the students constructed 25 benches, 70 Adirondack chairs, 20 shooting houses, and 30 deer feeders! The purchases of the students’ completed projects enabled the UMS-Wright 8th grade to contribute $3,500.00 to Camp Rap-a-Hope as well as $3,500.00 to Camp

Fall Festival Fun at North Mobile Christian School!

North Mobile Christian students and families enjoyed our annual fall festival on November 1st. Roasting marshmallows, hayrides, facepainting, and sack races were just a few of the ways students made memories with their friends and families.

E.R. Dickson Engineering and Robotics Club

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Congratulations to the E.R. Dickson Elementary SECME Engineering and Robotics Club for the 2019 -2020 school year. Back Row: Mr. Timothy Johnson (Sponsor), Malachi Pratt, Demerius Barnes, Amiah Miles, Chloe Seals, and Uriah Reed. Front Row: Julien Agee, Kharisma Howard, SiBing Chen, Rishita Bachu, Cameron Young, and Jada McCarter. Not Pictured: Carrington Bridges, Alexander Meola, Christian Pearson, Troy Russell (Sponsor), and Shukelia Mitchell (Sponsor).

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Mary B. Austin Students Create Stop Motion Movie

Here you see fifth graders, Sicheng Wang and Triston McNeil, from Mrs. Reed's homeroom working together to create a Stop Motion movie while visiting Mrs. Pouliot's Communication Lab at Mary B. Austin Elementary School. The school-wide theme was the quote, "The things that make me different are the things that make me," from the author of the Winnie the Pooh books, A.A. Milne. While visiting the communication lab, the 5th graders learned about the unique stop motion filming technique, then combined technology with their art skills to create quick stop motion movies. In these films they built their names and illustrated images that introduced the audience to their interests and talents. Some of the images included paint brushes, sports equipment, microphones and musical notes, etc. These images appeared to grow on the screen as the students took picture after picture while building the art so that the finished product seemed to show the names appear piece by piece and letter by letter out of nothing. They then combined their projects into one film and published it on Mrs. Pouliot's Communication Lab YouTube channel so that it could be viewed by an even wider audience. It was an engaging and fun way to incorporate technology with art to express the school wide theme in a personalized way. What other stop motion movies these 5th graders will go on to create?

Celebrating Reading at E.R. Dickson

On Thursday, November 7, E.R. Dickson celebrated the 25th annual Jumpstart’s Read for the Record. Students celebrated the day by enjoying an assembly where the choir and cheerleaders performed. E.R. Dickson hosted a large group read-aloud of the book “Thank You, Omu” by Oge Mora in the gym during the assembly. The book was read to over 900 students and teachers. The teachers shared their love of reading by dressing up as their favorite book characters. Finally guest readers visited classrooms to share some of their favorite books. E.R. Dickson students enjoyed a day of celebrating reading. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

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Prichard Prep Fall Festival

This year's Fall Festival was a little bit different... due to all of the rain we've had recently, the playground was soaked! So we decided to have it indoors! As you can see we had an inflatable and a hayride outside but everything else was in or around the school cafe. Face painting, musical chairs, ring the pumpkin, pumpkin foot race, ring the basket, you name it - we had it! We had hot dogs, popcorn, snow cones, pickles, chips, and tons of candy! A huge thank you to all of the parents, volunteers, teachers, and staff who made this a year to remember. A special thanks to Board Member, Jim Hatcher, for providing the hayride, to staff member, Sara Grace Little, who made it all work, and to the PTO for always making these events fun for everyone! #HappyChildren #FunhadbyYoungandOld #AwesomeFallFestival

Causey Cheerleaders Place 2nd at Regionals

Congratulations to Causey Middle School cheerleaders who placed 2nd at Regionals and qualified for the upcoming State tournament.

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Autauga County Schools

Griggs Elementary Red Ribbon Week Representative Lillian Strange (5th grade) was chosen as the Red Ribbon Week Representative for W. C. Griggs Elementary School in Mobile. Congratulations Lillian!

St. Mary Halloween Fun for the 50 Plus Crew!

Fun times were at had at the annual 50 Plus Club Halloween Luncheon! Sponsored by St. Mary Catholic School 7th grade classes, the event featured games centered around The Saints with prizes and a fabulous lunch!

Mary B. Austin Walk of Fame Recognizes High Achievers

Mary B. Austin held it's first "Walk of Fame" for the students who earned All A's, A/B honor roll, met or exceeded their Accelerated Reading Goals, had perfect attendance, or were selected as "Austin Innovators" (someone who shows an eagerness to embrace the 4C's - Communication, Collaboration, Creativity, and Critical Thinking; also someone who owns their learning, goes above and beyond, creates their own content, and more) during the first quarter of school. Parents were invited to line the track as these students paraded around the turf and waved to their biggest fans. The beautiful banners were created by Mrs. Golden and Ms. Cusker. The third graders holding the banner in this photo are Demetria Warner, Jaydon Williams, and Caidan Marshall. Way to go, Mary B. Austin high achievers! We love seeing your hard work and effort being recognized in this innovative, fun way!

North Mobile Christianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spelling Bee Winners

Congratulations to North Mobile Christian School's AISA District II Spelling Bee qualifiers: Carly Griswold, Landon Ziebach, Devin Evans, Marylynn Folds, and Erin Jones.

Causey Students Wins 2nd Place in Art Calendar Contest Kaitlyn Kriner, Causey Middle School 8th Grade student from Mrs. Hinton's art class, won 2nd Place in the 6th-8th Grade category for the 2020 Wildlife of Mobile Art/Calendar Contest. The ceremony took place Saturday, November 2, 2019, at the Environmental Center's Annual Open House. Congratulations, Kaitlyn.

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Faith Academy Volleyball Team Wins First Runner Up for State

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Faith Academy Varsity Volleyball team had an amazing season. The team went 45-10 for the season, securing the most wins in Faith history! They had 3 players break school records: Brinkley Hearn for assists, Kristen Mitternight for digs, and Aaliyah Austin for kills. The lady rams won their area and South Super Regionals for the first time in School history. They made it to the final four and State Championship match for the first time since 2009. They are the 5A first runner up for state for 2019! Way to go Lady RAMS! Pictured is the 2019 Varsity Volleyball team and coaches. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

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Autauga County Schools

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Hosts WNSP Game Day

Cottage Hill Christian Academy hosted WNSP Radio on November 1 for the Warriors football game against St. Luke’s. WNSP and the Dr. Christopher Mullenix High School Gameday show broadcasted live from campus early in the morning as CHCA students gathered to celebrate the school. Students from every grade level attended the morning pep rally and enjoyed their breakfast and coffee together. It was a great way for the Warrior Nation to show their school spirit!

St. Mary Catholic Hosts Explanatory Mass with Father Victor Ingalls

St. Mary Catholic School hosted their annual Explanatory Mass on October 9 with Mass Celebrant Father Victor Ingalls, Director of Vocations for The Archdiocese of Mobile. This Mass is sponsored by St. Mary Catholic School Middle School Religion Program under the direction of teacher, Mrs. Ashley Thompson. The Mass is a wonderful opportunity to experience Mass with explanations along the way of what each part of the liturgy means. Pictured: St. Mary Middle School students enjoy a moment with Father Ingalls before the Mass.

Story Book Day at Mobile Christian

Gilliard Read-A-Thon

Mrs. Kathy Presley’s K5 class at Mobile Christian School had a special visitor for Story Book Day 2019!

For the last seven years, Gilliard Elementary has hosted a Read-A-Thon event for students to embrace a day full of reading. Each year the displays become more elaborate and students are able to feel like they are visiting various places without ever leaving the school’s campus! This year our theme was “Take a Walk Around Mobile.” We spotlighted special landmarks, notable historians and community leaders. Students learned facts about Mobile and what makes Mobile special. Teachers decorated from floor to ceiling. This year we recreated Dauphin Island Parkway, the Azalea Trail Run, Reese’s Senior Bowl, USS Alabama, Bellingrath Gardens, Dauphin Island, Mardi Gras, the Oaks of Springhill and the Exploreum. Parents, students, guests and visitors were blown away by the transformation. We invited Mayor Sandy Stimpson, Chief Battiste, Representative Adline Clarke, Betty Fowler, the Excelsior Band, as well as the Azalea Trail Maids. These guests along with several others read their favorite books to many classes. Scientists from the Exploreum even performed science experiments throughout the day. Guests from Bellingrath shared fun facts about the many acres of beautiful flowers as well as the buildings and history that is seen when touring the gardens. QR codes were randomly placed throughout the school for students to learn interesting facts about the displays. The GooseChase App was also utilized by our students to help the decorated walls come to life. Their favorite part was having a Goose Chase to learn more about Dauphin Island. Students enjoyed reading, taking Accelerated Reader quizzes, and completing other reading activities. Students read a total of 1, 590, 835 words! WOW! Our technology teacher created a virtual tour of all the Read-A-Thon displays. Check out our link here: https://poly.google.com/view/03CmYDozUs5

St. Mary 2019 Toy Bowl Pep Rally!

Celebrating St. Mary Catholic School Toy Bowl athletes, cheerleaders, and court members, St. Mary held their annual Toy Bowl Pep Rally November 1. St. Mary Cheerleaders welcomed DJ Rodski to help lead all students in a fun afternoon of spirit for the Toy Bowl Classic! 29

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Autauga County Schools

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Congratulates 2020-2021 Azalea Trail Maids

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Cottage Hill Christian Academy is excited to announce the Azalea Trail Maids representing CHCA on the 2020 - 2021 court, Bella Shepherd and Laura Kate Tharp. CHCA is proud to have these two ladies represent the school as they serve as ambassadors for the city of Mobile.

Corpus Christi Catholic School Be Distinguished Club

Mr. Peter Stoyka, the middle school religion teacher at Corpus Christi Catholic School, established the "Be Distinguished" club for the young men in 7th and 8th grade at the school. The purpose of the club is to provide opportunities for the students to be an example of good character, leadership, strong academics, and deep faith. Mr. Stoyke explained, "my hope for the group is that the young men involved can show excellence in everything they do." Some of the activities that the "Be Distinguished" members participate in include mentoring younger students, attending a team-building retreat, and increasing their acts of faith, such as attending Mass together. Pictured is this year's members of the Be Distinguished club. (L to R, back row) Marshall Robertson, Mark Jones, Conner Baldridge, Jack Dismukes, Luke Diamond, Trey Waters, and Mr. Stoyka. (Front row) Parker Overstreet, Ethan Stokes, Chip Andrews, Declan Youkey, Jay Gonzales, Jake Quina, and Josef Wittendorfer.

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St. Mary Catholic Congratulates the 2019 Toy Bowl Court, Cheerleaders, and Athletes!

St. Mary Catholic School congratulates the 2019 Court members, athletes, and cheerleaders of the 72nd Annual CYO Toy Bowl Classic held November 2. These St. Mary students raised funds for the CYO Sports Program so near and dear to their hearts. St. Mary also congratulates Maddie Mayhall, top overall fundraiser and 2019 Toy Bowl Princess, escorted by Peyton Armstrong. Pictured are the St. Mary Court Members! Anan Mathers & Stephen Murray, Jolie Golemon & Ryan Shine, Madeline Ross & Sam Keyes, Maddie Mayhall & Peyton Armstrong, Helena Wilson Cherry & Matthew Naman, Jasmine Edwards & William Blanchette, Raley Adams & Connor Mosley , Sadie Hanks & Andrew Moore, Julia Smith & Kellen Thompson , Reagan Knight & Beck Fancher , Anne Marie Delaney & Jackson Murphy , Eighmey Stewart & Smith Knapstein, and Kendall Stein & Will Flynn.

Corpus Christi Catholic School Saints Parade

Corpus Christi Catholic School held its annual 4th-grade Saints Parade on November 7th. A few weeks prior to the parade, the students selected their favorite saint, wrote a report about the saint, and prepared a short presentation. On the day of the parade, the students came to school dressed as their saint and "paraded" to the kindergarten classes to do their presentations. The costumes were very creative and the students did a great job with the presentations!

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

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McGill-Toolen Fall Retreat

McT Campus Ministry hosted 90 students from all four grades at their annual Fall Retreat. The theme for the weekend was "Win the Day" which had the students reflecting on how we can work hard to become saints in the craziness of everyday life. There was time to relax, pray, and play some slip-n-slide kickball!

CORPUS CHRISTI CATHOLIC SCHOOL Building the Body of Christ, One Student at a Time.

Come visit us at our Open House.

E.R. Dickson’s Gorgeous Gobbler Contest

E.R Dickson Elementary School held its 34th annual Gorgeous Gobbler contest in November. The turkeys were themed from famous scientists, explorers, and Alabamians to story book characters. Over 100 students submitted Gobblers. Congratulations to the following winners: Pre-K / Kindergarten Level – Eden Milosevich (1st Place ), Marlie Barnes (2nd Place), Jose Gonon Chavez (3rd Place), and Khaliaya Carter (Honorable Mention). 1st Grade Level – Londyn Prim (1st Place), Leighton Gunn (2nd Place), Gatlin Metzger (3rd Place), and Ana Erak (Honorable Mention). 2nd Grade Level – Camden Tyus (1st Place), Kinsley Henderson (2nd Place), Macy Graves (3rd Place), and Hilarie Millhouse (Honorable Mention). 3rd Grade Level – Harry Dwyer (1st Place), Nicholas Lockette (2nd Place), London Powell (3rd Place), and Chandler Andrews (Honorable Mention). 4th Grade Level – Julien Agee (1st Place), Parker Tice (2nd Place), Bryson Dunbar (3rd Place), and Mckenzie Lee (Honorable Mention). 5th Grade Level – Julian Hawkins (1st Place), Haley Langley (2nd Place), Alexander Meola (3rd Place), and Nikeland Nichols (Honorable Mention). Congratulations to the 2019 Gorgeous Gobbler Best in Show: Londyn Prim (pictured).

Established in 1958, Corpus Christi Catholic School provides a quality education in a Christ-centered Catholic environment. Dedicated faculty and staff nurture every child from K2 through eighth grade. The mission of the school is to provide opportunities to grow in faith, to achieve academic success, and to serve others as disciples of Jesus

Sunday, January 26th, 2020 • 2 p.m . Interested parents are invited to tour our school and meet with students, teachers, and current parents while learning about our many excellent academic programs. 6300 McKenna Drive • Mobile, Alabama 36608 • school.corpuschristiparish.com Questions? Please contact us: 251.342.5474 • school@corpuschristiparish.com CCS MBP Open House Ad.indd 1

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Autauga County Schools All Saints Day Project at St. Ignatius

The St. Ignatius 4th grade class did a beautiful job representing their chosen saint for All Saints Day. Each student chose a saint, researched them and presented their saint to the class. This is a wonderful project that not only teaches the students about the saints but helps them learn presentation skills in the classroom.

Covenant Students Visit Five Rivers Delta Center

McT Volleyball State Runner up!

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Congratulations to McGill-Toolen Catholic Dirty Dozen Volleyball! 7A State Runner up!

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Mrs. Revelle and Mrs. Baker’s 3rd grade class at Covenant Christian School had a wonderful time on their field trip to the Five Rivers Delta Center. The students went on a boat tour, explored the land, and learned more about our region’s wild animals.

Citronelle Student Wins 1st Place at State Fair

Please email School News Lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

Congratulations to Kamryn Turner of Citronelle High School, who took first place in the hog show at the Greater Gulf State Fair this week! Several students from Citronelle and Bryant placed in the event.

Phillips Preparatory Students Learn From “The Giver”

The eighth graders conducted a Socratic seminar, discussing big themes such as courage and self-sacrifice in their first quarter novel, “The “Giver.

E.R. Dickson Principal Named School Administrator of Year

E.R. Dickson Elementary Principal Katryna Kinn has been named School Administrator of the Year by the Alabama Literacy Council. She was recently recognized by the Mobile County Board of School Commissioners for the honor and is pictured here with District 2 Commissioner Don Stringfellow. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

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Civil Rights Leader’s Family Speaks to Local Students and Families

On Monday, November 4 the family of Civil Rights Leader Rev. Frederick D. Reese travelled to Mobile to share their family’s oral history from Selma, Alabama. Reese was one of the Courageous Eight and led the movement for voting rights. Last year, students travelled to Selma and marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge with the Reese family. This year, the Reese family brought students historical documents, photographs, and artifacts belonging to Reese to examine. Students at Clark-Shaw Magnet School were challenged by the Reese family to “Stand up for what is right, even if you are standing alone.” The Reese family spoke to students about bullying and how to stand up to bullying just as their grandfather stood up to the bully Sheriff Jim Clark in Selma. The Reese family spoke to students at Murphy High School about inner strength in times of turmoil and change. They spoke to the high schoolers at Murphy High School about the challenges life will bring them, but inspired them to persevere and not give up—to see the challenges as opportunities for growth. Reese always told his grandsons that “Even after the darkest night, there will be dawn—it doesn’t fail. The sun rises without fail.” Students were challenged to not give up when they encounter dark moments in their life—to persevere until dawn comes. In the evening, the Reese family spoke to students and families from throughout the community at Davidson High School. This event was sponsored by Clark-Shaw Magnet School as part of their Bicentennial Schools of Excellence Project.

Mobile Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council

Two students from each of Mobile County Public Schools' 12 high schools have been selected to serve on Superintendent Chresal Threadgill's Student Advisory Council. These students were selected by their principals to participate on the council. They will meet with the superintendent one day each month throughout the school year to provide input into the school system. They are: • Sarah Sims and Kevin Chapman of Baker High. • Connor Howard and Daisy Ferrell of Blount High. • Savannah Creel and Lauren Montgomery of Bryant High. • Dreayn Morgan and Tony Lewis of Citronelle High. • Quaesi Grindley and Julianne Berte of Davidson High. • Jamiya Milton and Alana Wright of LeFlore High. • Kyle Kimble and Michaela Moran of Mary G. Montgomery High. • Addison "Addie" Allred and Kiera Alexis Hinton of Murphy High. • Kelli Turner and Jimmy Hermon of B.C. Rain High. • Alshawnta Leatherwood and Rileigh Nelson of Theodore High. • Michael Stallworth and A'Kieria Jones of Vigor High. • Kennedy Meggs and Warren Hawkins of Williamson High.

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5 Myths and Truths About Kids’ Internet Safety

Myth: Social media alienates kids. Truth: Most kids say social media strengthens their relationships. Most kids want to have fun, hang out, and socialize normally online -- and in fact, according to our research, that’s what the majority is doing. Check out these comforting stats: • Most teens say social media has a positive effect on them. • Social media is an important avenue of creative expression. • The quality of kids’ online relationships has a big impact on their well-being.

If you believe everything you hear about kids online, you might think pedophiles and cyberbullies are around every cybercorner. Yes, there is bad stuff out there. But the truth is, there’s a lot of good, and some experts are arguing against a “technopanic mindset” that worries parents unnecessarily. The bottom line is that we can’t keep our kids safe if we don’t know the facts. Here are the five most popular myths about Internet safety -- and the truths that can set your worries free.

Myth: It’s dangerous to post pictures of your kids online. Truth: If you use privacy settings, limit your audience, and don’t ID your kids, it can be done fairly safely. Although it’s true that posting anything online invites some risks, there are ways to limit them if you’re smart about how you do it. Use privacy settings. Make sure your privacy settings are set so only the closest people in your network can view your posts. Limit your audience. Only share posts with close family and friends. Or use photo-sharing sites such as Google Photos that require a log-in to see pics. Don’t rush your kids into social media. Obey the rules about keeping kids under 13 off social media. Once your kids have an online profile, they can be tagged in photos, which magnifies their online presence. If you’re going to upload photos of them, don’t identify them and don’t tag them -- that way the photo can’t be traced back to them.

Myth: Social media turns kids into cyberbullies. Truth: There are many reasons why a kid might cyberbully, and social media is just a convenient way to do the dirty work. The reality is that kids who engage in this behavior typically have something else going on that compels them to act out. They might be in crisis -- at home, at school, or otherwise socially. They may also be bullying in person, or they may have an underdeveloped sense of empathy. Awareness of a cyberbully’s circumstances -- though not excusing the behavior -- can help parents and educators recognize the warning signs and potentially intervene before it goes too far. Myth: Teaching kids not to talk to strangers is the best way to keep them safe online. Truth: Teaching kids to recognize predatory behavior will help them avoid unwelcome advances. In today’s world, where kids as young as 8 are interacting with people online, they need to know the boundary between appropriate and inappropriate conversation. Kids are often pressured by their own friends to talk about sex, so they need to know it’s OK to tell peers to back off. Go beyond “stranger danger” and teach them what kind of questions are not OK (for example, not OK: “Are you a boy or a girl?”; “Where do you live?”; “What are you wearing?”; “Do you want to have a private conversation?”). Also, teach kids to not go looking for thrills online. Risky online relationships more frequently evolve in chat rooms when teens willingly seek out or engage in sexual conversation. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

Myth: Parental controls are the best way to monitor my kids’ online activities. Truth: Focusing on only one Internet safety method lulls you into a false sense of security. To keep your kids safe online -- and to raise them to be responsible, respectful digital citizens -- it takes more than installing parental controls. For starters, parental controls can be defeated by determined kids. They also often catch too much in their filters, rendering any Internet search useless, and they set up a “parent vs. kid” dynamic that could backfire. By all means, use parental controls to help prevent exposure to age-inappropriate material and to manage time limits. But don’t think they get you off the hook. Continue to discuss responsible, respectful online behavior, set rules and consequences for misbehavior, and train your kid to manage his or her own usage. 34

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Emotions, Basics and Change Q.

I’ve gotten out of debt before following your plan, but I always seem to fall right back in. I find myself spending more than I mean to whenever I go out shopping or running errands. I’m tired of all this, and I want to stop busting my budget and get control of my money once and for all. Do you have any advice?

A. Years ago, when I lost everything financially, there were two or three extremely strong emotions that spurred me toward change. Probably the biggest emotion was fear. I was scared to death I’d be broke for the rest of my life, and not be able to take care of my family. Don’t misunderstand me, though. I don’t think you should ever live your life in fear. But a reasonable, healthy level of fear where some things are concerned can be a fantastic motivator.

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

Another emotion was disgust. I realized the way I had been living and handling money was stupid. So, I made a proactive, conscious decision that I was going to change, and things were going to be different. The third emotion was contentment. You know, advertisers try to make us believe our lives will be better, and we’ll be happier, if we just go out and buy their stuff. I can tell you from personal experience when this idea is crammed down your throat every day, it can warp your perception of contentment and happiness. Lots of stuff does not equal lots of happiness.

If you’ve tried several times, and are still falling back into the same old trap, maybe you should approach your situation in a practical, day-to-day way. Stop going places where you’re tempted to spend money on silly things. When you go out running errands and shopping, make a list of only the bare necessities, and take along just enough cash to pay for them. Spending money on a bunch of stuff you don’t need, and probably don’t even really want, isn’t going to bring you contentment. It’s just going to bust your budget, and put you in a financial hole that will, sooner or later, become very difficult—if not impossible—to dig your way out of!

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“It’s time for karate class,” I said to my 13-year-old son. “Do I have to go?” “Yes.” This has been a common exchange between us for a variety of activities over the past 10 years. He has tried everything from baseball to cooking class—yet nothing holds his interest as much as video games. Every now and then I wonder if it is worth investing money and time into classes or sports he doesn’t want to participate in. But if I hold off on signing him up for things, he does nothing except play video games until we try something new again. It’s a never-ending cycle.

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Are Video Games Healthy? My son is not an anomaly. According to the Pew Research Center, 72% of teens—and 84% of teen boys—play video games. There is a lot of conflicting information about video game use, so it can be hard for parents to know what to allow. It’s screen time, of course, but video gaming is often also a social activity played together with friends either in the same room or online. And if it’s a popular pastime among a teen’s peer group, some parents may be inclined to let them play for an unlimited amount of time with their friends. Playing video games can have positive benefits, says Dr. Larry D. Rosen, a professor at California State University and author of The Distracted Mind. Gaming “can offer some skill-building, including reaction time, executive functioning, and strategic thinking,” says Rosen. He cautions, though, that “playing video games can be very addictive and create problematic thinking, including desensitization to violence.”

Video Game Obsession? Rosen recommends that video game

play should be limited since research shows physiological arousal increases when playing—and kids need breaks from that. He suggests limiting gaming for teens to 60-90 minutes at a time, even if parents decide to allow more total time daily. Maria Sanders, a licensed social worker, and certified parent coach, also recommends creating clear boundaries with your teen regarding when and how long they are allowed to play. She says an example of boundaries might be letting teens choose to play an hour of video games either before or after completing homework. She encourages parents to learn more about their teen’s interest in video games. Sit down and play the games with them. “The child will see that you have an interest in what they are doing,” she says, “and you will learn about why they are so attracted to the game.”

Encouraging Other Activities Teens should live “balanced lives and not live solely in the video game,” says Sanders. But if your teen doesn’t express interest in anything else, it may be dif-

ficult to figure out which activity or sport to encourage. Sanders suggests asking your teen about the type of video games they like to play. Then you might be able to figure out an activity that uses similar skills or gameplay. An avid Fortnite player, for example, might enjoy a laser tag league. Parents should avoid simply announcing which activities their teen must do. Rosen stresses the importance of including the child in the decision-making process. With your child’s input, create a list of the types of activities they could do at home during unstructured times or when they feel bored. Similarly, involving your child in discussions about organized extracurriculars will prevent them from feeling forced into participating in certain activities.

Stay Positive About Video Games Often parents make comments like “video games are a waste of time” or “video games are unhealthy” in an effort to decrease video game use. Rosen says this almost always backfires. Instead, parents could reward the child for responsible behavior. For example, when a child demonstrates that they can stop playing

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on their own without parent badgering, parents might loosen strict time limits on screen time. Instead of making negative statements about video games, Sanders says, “The best thing a parent can do is guide their child down a path of self-reflection. Asking questions like, I notice you seem pretty tired after playing video games. How are you feeling? will help your child figure out their own beliefs about video game use.” Parent negativity can make a teen feel as if they are being judged and misunderstood. Focus on their strengths while playing a video game—perhaps, for instance, their ability to help a friend get to another level. A parent should notice that ability and point out how it might connect to real-life situations. Next step: Parents can help them get out there and do just that.

Too Many Video Games: When to Worry Video game addiction is not yet a disorder recognized by the American Psychiatric Association. The World Health Organization, however, recently recognized the existence of “gaming disorder” for the first time. Excessive video game play and other types of addictions do show similar patterns, says Rosen. Some signs parents should look for are: • Isolating behavior or ignoring family and friends • Sneaking video game play at night or at friends’ houses • Changes in eating or sleeping patterns • Decline in academic performance or not doing homework • A need to continue playing video games beyond a time limit • An interest only in playing video games, at the expense of other activities • Always thinking about video games If you are concerned about your teen, you can contact a mental health professional to discuss counseling options. MBP Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in Parents Magazine, Upworthy, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Count Your Blessings and Twins Magazine. You can find her at Twitter @ CherylMaguire05.

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

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LIVE NATIVITY Wednesday, December 4 Indoor & Outdoor Walking Tour 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. | Christ Center Experience what it was like the night baby Jesus was born through live character portrayals of Mary, Joseph, shepherds, wise men, angels and live animals. This will be a meaningful experience for all ages!

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JOY CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION: A Worship and Communion Experience For All Abilities Sunday, December 8 3:30 p.m. | Fellowship Hall Enjoy this inclusive, accessible and sensory friendly Christmas worship followed by Christmas cookie decorating, dinner, and a visit from Santa.

WHAT CHILD IS THIS CHRISTMAS CONCERT Friday, December 13 | 7:00 p.m. | Sanctuary Bring the whole family and enjoy a festive Christmas concert as our choirs and orchestra, along with a compelling and dramatic video, come together to answer the question, “What Child is This?”

THE KEMPTERS IN CONCERT Sunday, December 22 | 6:00 p.m. Sanctuary | Don’t miss this energetic and gifted Southern musical group as they share their fun, unique and vintage bluegrass Christmas songs.

CHRISTMAS EVE FAMILY COMMUNION SERVICES | 3:00 p.m. & 4:00 p.m. | Sanctuary Bring the kids for a fun and BEAUTY FROM ASHES: A child-friendly Christmas Eve service. Everyone will enjoy Blue Christmas Service Sunday, December 15 Christmas sing-a-longs, colorful puppets, and an interactive 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. telling of the Christmas story. Sanctuary | During

this service, we will remember those who have passed, pray for those far away, and seek God’s healing.

CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT MODERN COMMUNION SERVICE 5:00 p.m. | Christ Center Gym | Come and experience live strings, an incredible worship band, and a meaningful message as we celebrate the greatest gift of all!

CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT TRADITIONAL COMMUNION SERVICES | 5:30 p.m., 7:00 p.m. & 11:00 p.m. | Sanctuary Celebrate the birth of our Savior with us. Enjoy singing Christmas carols, listening to scripture readings, as well as an inspirational Christmas message and participate in Holy Communion.

All events are free and all are welcome!

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The Shape of Play

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

From octagonal stop signs and rectangular doors, from triangular roofs to circular wheels— children experience shapes in every part of their daily lives. Finding opportunities to talk about and explore shapes not only helps children identify and organize visual information, it helps them learn skills in other curriculum areas including reading, math, and science. For example, an early step in understanding numbers and letters is to recognize their shape. Learning shapes also helps children understand other signs and symbols that support their later literacy. Preparing for the shape of things to come, the following recommended toys are ideal introductions to basic shapes in their variety of functions and forms.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Shape Sorter House

Chunky Puzzle Shapes

The shape sorter house from Battat is a take-along shape sorting playset that comes with 12 different shape pieces, a set of 6 keys and versatile sorting features that explore both shape and color. Shapes are easy to hold and manipulate as they fit perfectly through a hole of the same shape somewhere around the house. Each of the six keys feature a distinctive shape that will only unlock its matching shape door. When kids find the right key shape, they can unlock the door revealing the shaped blocks inside. Cleverly designed to store its components, the Shape Sorter House’s sturdy carry handle makes it an ideal take-along toy for continued exploration and entertainment. Combining motor skill development, shape recognition and pretend play, the Shape Sorter House unlocks loads of learning fun for the preschool set!

Introducing eight familiar shapes, this extra-thick wooden puzzle with easy-to-grasp, chunky pieces is perfect for little hands. Each basic shape puzzle piece is embedded in a contrasting color and has a matching full-color picture underneath. The shape name is also printed on the puzzle board. Kids may place the pieces on the puzzle board, but the pieces also stand upright and may be used as manipulatives or pieces in other imaginative play. Children can take a puzzle piece around the house to match it with similar shapes in their own environment, reinforcing their understanding of shape. Supporting hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, visual perception, and shape/color recognition, Melissa & Doug’s Chunky Puzzle Shapes is a must have on the preschooler puzzle shelf.

Serving Shapes Tea Set

Play Forms for Toddlers

This colorful tea set serves up a rich menu of shape recognition, sorting, and sequencing every time kids host a pretend tea party. Featuring a sturdy tea pot and five colorful cup/saucer pairs, the tea time play is just the part of the exploration laid on the table. Each cup and saucer set comes in color and shape combinations that explore colors and counting. Kids can also work on their matching skills by pairing the shaped pegs on each saucer with the corresponding holes on the bottom of each cup. The cups and saucers fit inside the tea pot for easy clean-up and simple storage! The table is set for many afternoons of skill-building steeped in playtime with the Serving Shapes Tea Set from Learning Resources.

Before they cultivate the fine motor control to manipulate the smaller shapes of puzzle pieces and sorting boxes, toddlers can still take big strides into active shape-informed play. The Play Forms set for toddlers includes five big three-dimensional shapes (two blocks, a ramp, a cylinder and a half cylinder) constructed with solid bounce-back inner core foam covered with durable vinyl in primary colors. Soft and lightweight, these outsized, moveable shapes are perfect for climbing and gross motor exploration by toddlers. The forms don’t include connections so stacking is limited, but they are lightweight enough for little kids to rearrange and configure into forts, obstacle courses or buildings of their own design. Ideal for active play and exploration indoors, these forms combine toddler energy with a lively landscape of shapes.

(Melissa & Doug)

(Battat)

(Constructive Playthings)

(Learning Resources)

Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

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Are you excited about the holidays, but dreading the end-of-year rush? If so, you are not alone. Most parents approach the season with equal parts excitement and trepidation, which can lead to difficulties with decision-making from moment to moment. That’s why I’ve created this list of twenty-one reminders to help you preserve your family’s good cheer all the way through the most wonderful time of the year. 1. Go For Good Enough. If you have an idea in your mind of the “perfect” holiday, you may to be disappointed when your imperfect brood can’t uphold your image. Aim for “good enough” instead. You’ll smile more if you can let unimportant things-like slightly burnt cookies, lights that won’t blink in unison, and late holiday cards-slide.

2. Just Hit Delete. If you think your holiday schedule is grossly overloaded, call a family meeting and vote on what to scratch off your joint to-do list. Decide what you don’t want to do, first. Then decide what matters most to each family member. A one-gift-per-family-member tradition might be a sanity-saving plan that sticks. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

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3. Call In Fresh Recruits. Even if you don’t normally hire a housecleaner, you probably could use some help now. Why not call in a cleaning service in midDecember and in mid-January to bookend the holidays, even if you don’t use one the rest of the year? Consider it a holiday present to yourself.

4. Hum Your Favorite Tunes. Haul out your seasonal music early before you tire of the omnipresent muzak that is sure to come. Load up your smart phone or iPod and carry headphones in your purse to jolly things up when you are ticking chores and errands off your to-do list. If your old faves are getting overplayed, jazz up your playlist with some fresh downloads or albums. 5. Shop The Plan. First, the plan: write down the names of everyone you truly want to give to and what you think they would like. Then, the shop: keep the list in your wallet to jog your memory when hunting down a gift each person you cherish. For store shopping, pay cash, so you won’t overspend. For online shopping, search for coupons before ordering and act early for cheaper shipping. 6. Sip Your Way To Heaven. When you are having a hectic day, take a timeout. Warm up or buy an extra-hot cup of Chai tea with a spritz of whipped cream on top. The spices will put you back in touch with your senses and the warmth will spread through your belly and soothe your frazzled cheer.

7. Get Bazaar. Take the whole family to a local holiday craft bazaar. Look for gifts for teachers and other folks who enrich your family life. Give each child a spending limit and enjoy interacting with the vendors. Plan to spend a couple of hours browsing, so you can soak up all the creative energy.

8. Take Thirty. Line up winter reads from the library or download them onto your e-reader. Encourage the whole family to take 30 minutes a day to relax and read. Collections of short stories or essays are good choices for moms with very young or multiple children. This is a great way for everyone to decompress after a busy day.

9. Bring Mother Nature Inside. Pine cones, holly, evergreen boughs, twigs,

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13. Take A Deep Breath. Bring some uplifting scents into your cleaning routine. Check out the Mrs. Meyers brand of earth-friendly cleaning supplies. Your home and laundry will smell winter-wonderful.

and poinsettias all remind us that there is life hibernating underneath that blanket of snow or wicked frost. Gather reminders of the season from your backyard or local garden shop and decorate the front hall, mantle, and stairway. Remember: simple is as merry as ornate.

10. Huggy Holidays. Use “Happy Holidays!” as an excuse to hug your loved ones often. Every time you feel stressed, hug or get hugged. Your holiday stress will melt away.

11. Stay Healthy. Put holiday-scented soaps by every sink and encourage plenty of hand washing. Install a bottle of handsanitizer next to every box of tissues. Chase every “Ah-choo!” away. (But stock up on cold medicines, just in case, to avoid midnight trips to the market.)

12. Lighten Up. Twinkling lights create a comforting mood. Don’t limit shimmery lights to the tree and outdoor eves. If it sounds fun, bring some solace into the kid’s bedrooms as well as yours.

14. Enjoy Spreading Cheer. Save the annual holiday letter composing and Christmas card address labeling for when you can carve out time to relax and enjoy the process. And don’t try to do it all yourself. Break the job down into steps and enlist the whole family. Remember: taking everything on without helpers is naughty, not nice. 15. Question Tradition. Traditions are wonderful, but let’s face it, sometimes even the fondest can become tired. So, if you don’t feel like tromping around all afternoon hunting for the most splendiferous evergreen on the tree farm or frying the most perfect potato latkes, buy a pre-cut tree at your local grocery store or pick up latkes at the deli instead. Use saved time to enjoy tree trimming or dreidel playing instead. 16. Create Classic Memories. Play hooky from holiday prep for the day and go ice-skating or play in the cold with your kids. Drink hot chocolate. Take lots of family photos. Build a fire. Goof off. Enjoy the grins.

hectic time of year. There are people in need throughout every season, after all.

18. Sock It To ‘Em. Don’t wait until the temperature hits zero to stock up on slippers and socks. You’ll keep your heating bills down and your kids smiling if everyone in your brood has warm tootsies as the mercury plunges.

19. Hit The Hay Harder. There’s less light during the winter. Take advantage of it and put the kids to bed an hour earlier than normal. There’s the extra hour you need to keep some hustle in your holiday muscle or at least wrap some presents without interruption.

20. Pop Plenty Of Corn. Line up holiday movie classics in your mail order DVD queue. Watch some with the kids and some with your honey in the wee hours.

21. Deck The Bathroom. Hang up some scented pomanders. Bring in lots of little candles (beyond the reach of little hands, of course). Look for winter-scented bath indulges in Juniper, Cedar or Musk. Sink into a bubble bath wonderland. Forget your name for ten minutes. You’ll feel more holly-jolly if can get calm and stay centered all holiday season long. Happy holy days! MBP

17. Save It For A Heatwave. If you are really feeling a time crunch, don’t donate time to help the less fortunate during holiday time. Give time later during a less

Christina Katz is an author, journalist, and writing coach, who adores the holidays. She’ll take the rush, so long as she gets the hush, too.

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Now - December 23

December 4

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Fish River Christmas Tree Farm @ Fish River Christmas Tree Farm 13982 Woodhaven Dairy Road East Summerdale, AL 36580 Choose and cut, pre-cut, flocked and container trees! Santa visits, live manger scene, camel rides, train and more! Open daily from 8am - 5pm. Call to confirm times before your visit. (251) 988-8114 fishrivertrees@gulftel.com www.fishrivertrees.com

November 29-December 31

Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens and Home ad on page 21

@ Bellingrath Gardens and Home 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL 36582 Join us for the 24th season.The dazzling nighttime display features more than 1,100 set pieces, 3 million lights and 15 scenes, set out in a walking tour throughout the 65-acre Garden estate. Daily-5:00pm-9:00pm (251) 973-2217 www.bellingrath.org

Weekends Only - December 23

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@ Fish River Christmas Tree Farm 13982 Woodhaven Dairy Road East Summerdale, AL 36580 Choose a Christmas Tree. Holiday activities (Fridays - Sundays Only) 8am - 5pm. Tannenbaum Express Tree Train, live manger scene, Camel/ Pony Rides ($5 per ride). Santa visits December 1st - 2nd and December 8th - 9th. (251) 988-8114 fishrivertrees@gulftel.com www.fishrivertrees.com

December 8

Live Nativity at Christ United Methodist @ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 In and Outdoor Walk-Through Tours between 5:00pm–7:00pm at the Christ Center. Ever wondered what it was like the night baby Jesus was born? Join us as we walk through the sights and sounds of Bethlehem. Experience Holy Night through live character portrayals of Mary, Joseph, shepherds, the wise men, angels and live animals. This will be a unique experience for all ages! Free and open to the public. Allow 30 minutes to an hour for your visit. To see a full list of all our Christmas events and services visit ChristmasinMobile.com. (251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com

JOY: A Christmas Worship and Communion Experience for all Abilities ad on page 41

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Join us for a Christmas theme worship service followed by Christmas cookie decorating, dinner, and a visit from Santa. This monthly service is an inclusive, accessible and sensory friendly worship experience for those with a disability and their family who find it difficult to worship together. 3:30pm in the Sanctuary. To see a full list of all our Christmas events and services visit ChristmasinMobile.com. (251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com

December 5

December 8 & 13

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Mobile Museum of Art – Holiday Art Market

What Child is This Christmas Concert

@ Mobile Museum of Art 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, AL 36608 Join us from 5:00pm – 8:00pm for our Holiday Art Market. Support your local artists and join the party and shopping fun with great food, drink, and live music.

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Bring the whole family and enjoy a festive Christmas evening as our adult, youth and children choirs, along with our orchestra and dramatic video come together to answer the questions, “What Child is This?” December 8-10:40am in Sanctuary during service, December 13-7:00pm. To see a full list of all our Christmas events and services visit ChristmasinMobile.com.

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St. Mary Lighting Up Midtown! ad on page 37

(251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com

@ St. Mary Campus 1453 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36604 Join us for our annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Family Celebration. The Tree LIghting begins at approximately 6:45pm. Santa will arrive on the Lafayette Street Fire Truck and will be ready to take wish lists and have his photo made with all of our little ones! Plenty of dinner options, cookie decorating, hot chocolate and even a little snow will be included!

December 14

(251) 432-8678 lwallace@stmarymobile.org

(251) 967-LULU (5858) www.LuluBuffett.com

Billy Claus visits Lulu’s! ad on page 11

@ LuLu’s 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Billy Claus and his LuLubelle’s will read a Christmas story, and listen to your wish list! Arts & crafts, live music and pictures with Billy Claus. 1:00pm - 4:00pm.

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December 14-15

Mobile Ballet presents “The Nutcracker” ad on page 8

@ Mobile Civic Center Theatre 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL 36602 December brings the lavish holiday tradition of The Nutcracker–pairing Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece with fresh choreography from Artistic Director Katia Garza. The Corps de Ballet will feature world renowned Guest Artists, including Lilliana Hagerman and Lamin Pereira of Kansas City Ballet, along with Ballet Master Israel Rodriguez and Paul Branco. Performers will also include dancers from the entire community–with open auditions for Party Girls, Bon Bons and more. Performances:Saturday-December 14-2:30,7:30pm and Sunday-December 15-2:30pm. (251) 342-2241 www.mobileballet.org

December 15

Beauty from Ashes: A Blue Christmas Service ad on page 41

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Are you missing your loved one or hurting this Christmas? During this service, we will remember those who have passed, pray for those far away, and seek God’s healing. Feel free to bring a photograph of friends/family who have passed or are away. 5:00pm in the Sanctuary. To see a full list of all our Christmas events and services visit ChristmasinMobile.com. (251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com

December 22

Sunday Worship Services with The Kempters ad on page 41

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 8:00 a.m., 9:15 a.m., 10:40 a.m. Sanctuary Worship Services. Evening concert at 6:00 p.m. Join us as this energetic and gifted southern musical group share their bluegrass Christmas songs and put us in the Christmas spirit. Bring your family and invite your friends as we celebrate the birth of our King. The concert is free and all are welcome! To see a full list of all our Christmas events and services visit ChristmasinMobile.com. Morning concerts during the worship services.

Christmas Eve Modern Communion Service ad on page 41

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Come and experience live strings, an incredible worship band, and a meaningful message as we celebrate the greatest gift of all! You will not want to miss! To see a full list of all our Christmas events and services visit ChristmasinMobile.com. Time: 5:00pm at Christ Center Gym. (251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com

Christmas Eve Traditional Communion Service ad on page 41

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Celebrate the birth of our Savior with us. Enjoy singing Christmas carols, listening to scripture readings as well as an inspirational Christmas message, and participate in Holy Communion. All are welcome. To see a full list of all our Christmas events and services visit ChristmasinMobile.com. Time: 5:30 p.m., 7:00 p.m. & 11:00 p.m. (251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com

December 31

Noon Year’s Eve Celebration! ad on page 11

@ Lulu’s 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Noon Year’s is a FREE family event for all ages. Kid friendly activities begin at 10:00am with a beach ball drop at NOON! See you there! (251) 967-LULU (5858) www.LuluBuffett.com

Now-December 16 Pet Pictures with Santa

@ The Shoppes of Bel Air 3299 Bel Air Mall Mobile, AL 36606 Pet nights with Santa are back! Join us every MONDAY through December 16, 5PM to set close at The Shoppes at Bel Air. Dogs and cats only please. (251) 478-1893 www.theshoppesatbelair.com

Now-December 24 Photos with Santa

@ The Shoppes of Bel Air 3299 Bel Air Mall Mobile, AL 36606 Tis the season! If you’re looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season in Mobile, AL, look no further—we’re offering photos with Santa at The Shoppes at Bel Air!

(251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com

(251) 478-1893 www.theshoppesatbelair.com

December 24

Santa’s Wonderland

Christmas Eve Family Communion Services ad on page 41

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 3:00 p.m. & 4:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Bring the kids and join us for a child-friendly service that includes fun and colorful puppets, sing-a-long music and an interactive telling of the Christmas story. All are welcome. To see a full list of all our Christmas events and services visit ChristmasinMobile.com. (251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

@ Bass Pro Shop 20000 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, AL 36527 Santa photos, activities, crafts, games and more! A Bass Pass is required to see Santa and are limited each day. Check the activity schedule online for updates. Times subject to change. (251) 607-5900 ksmith6@basspro.com www.basspro.com

Now-January 1 Christmas Night of Lights

@ Hank Aaron Stadium 755 Bolling Brothers Blvd Mobile, AL 36606 Christmas Nights of Lights is coming back to Mo-

bile for the 2019 season! Come see over 1 million lights synchronized to traditional and newer, rocking Christmas music played through your own car stereo. Pack your vehicle full of friends and family to enjoy the show and begin a new Christmas tradition with us. 5:30pm-10:00pm. Cost-$6.00 per person, Children Age 3 & Under: FREE! www.christmasnightsoflights.com

Now-January 5 STEM Wonderland

@ Gulf Coast Exploreum 65 Government St. Mobile, AL 36602 Holiday STEM Land will feature the annual installation of the model train set. Holiday decorations will set the stage for a myriad of STEM based activities for all ages, while Imagination Playground will be available for building an ice village. www.exploreum.com/event/stem-wonderland/

November 21-24 University of Mobile’s “Christmas Spectacular”

@ Cottage Hill Baptist Church 4255 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, AL 36609 Get the season off to a festive start with the sights and sounds of our annual Christmas music extravaganza presented by the Alabama School of the Arts at University of Mobile. Time-7pm-November 21-23, 2pm-November 23, 4:00pm-November 24. (251) 442-2383 www.umobile.edu/christmas

November 22-24 Port City Craftsman Holiday Show

@ Abba Shrine Temple 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, AL 36695 2019 Port City Craftsmen Show-November 22, 23-9:00am-5:00pm and November 24-11:00am4:00pm. Admission is $3.00 or $2.00 with 1 can good which will be donated to Feeding the Gulf Coast, Children 13 and under-free. pccshowcommittee@portcitycraftsmen.com www.portcitycraftsmen.com

November 23, 2019 Turkey 10-Miler, 10K & 5K Run / Walk

@ River Delta Marina 2350 Dead Lake Marina Rd # 244 Creola, AL 36525 This race benefits Creola Police and Rescue, River Delta Marina and Drug Education Council. Please bring canned or packaged non-perishable food to the race to donate to Feeding the Gulf Coast. www.portcitypacers.com

November 24, December 8 Santa Cares Day - Sensory Friendly

@ The Shoppes of Bel Air 3299 Bel Air Mall Mobile, AL 36606 Santa Cares program is for children and adults with special needs and abilities who would like additional assistance, extra time, or a quieter, less stressful environment in which to visit with Santa. Register online at Eventbrite. (251) 478-1893 www.theshoppesatbelair.com

November 28 Turkey Trot for Hope 5K & Gobble Wobble Fun Run

@ Mardi Gras Park Mobile, AL 36602 Come run the Turkey Trot for Hope certified 5k race and 1 mile Gobble Wobble fun run with us on Thanksgiving Day to benefit Camp Rap-A Hope! raceroster.com/events/2019/25056/turkey-trot-for-hope

www.mobilebayparents.com

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November 28-29 49th Annual Thanksgiving Day Pow Wow

@ Poarch Creek Indian Grounds 6477 Jack Springs Road Atmore, AL 36502 Celebrate a cultural tradition with the Poarch Creek Indian Thanksgiving Pow Wow. You and your family are invited to join the festivities and enjoy a brilliant display of authentic Native American dress and dancing. (251) 368-9136 www.pci-nsn.gov/westminster/ index.html

November 30 Christmas Village at The Fort

@ The Fort of Colonial Mobile 150 South Royal Street Mobile, AL 36602 Bring the family down for Christmas Village at The Fort and ring in the holiday season!! Featuring games, prizes, cookie decorating, bouncy house and of course .....SANTA! Also featuring the ice queen herself Elsa! 11:00am-3:00pm (251) 525-6933 gulfcoastducks.com

November 30, December 7, December 14 Breakfast with Santa in the Crystal Ballroom

@ The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa 26 N Royal St Mobile, AL 36602 It’s time for good boys and girls to put on their holiday best because Santa Claus is coming to the Battle House from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Reservations are required; please call 251.338.5441. (251) 338-5441

December 1 Holiday Market-History Museum of Mobile

and Snow! We hope you will come and mingle. Time: 5:30pm-7:30pm (251) 666-2991 stlukesmobile.com

@ History Museum of Mobile 111 S Royal St Mobile, AL 36602 The History Museum of Mobile is hosting a Holiday Market during December’s Free Sunday. Time: 1:00pm (251) 301-0273 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Pajama Brunch with Santa

@ Tanner Williams United Methodist Church 1550 N Grand Bay Wilmer Rd Mobile, AL 36608 Pajama Brunch with Santa on December 1, 2-4 p.m. Cost is $12 per child (Pancake Breakfast, Crafts, Photo Opportunity.) RSVP to Helena Towzer, 251-704-6646. (251) 704-6646; (251) 649-3677

@ Tillman’s Corner Community Center 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL 36619 SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 3rd Annual Christmas Tree Lighting is Monday, December 2, 2019, 5:30-6:30p.m (251) 666-2488 info@swmcchamber.com www.swmcchamber.com

December 2-December 31 Holiday Family Fun

@ Theodore Oaks Branch 5808 US-90 West E Theodore, AL 36582 Guessing Jar, Scavenger Hunts, Holiday Crafts & So Much More! Join us for all kinds of Holiday fun throughout the month of December! Something for all ages - stop by and check us out!

Pump It Up Holiday Fun

@ Pump It Up 741 Hillcrest Road Mobile, AL 36695 Pump It Up will have numerous themed Open Play jumps. For specific times and to reserve your space early please visit our website.

(251) 662-9676 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

(251) 342-3940 www.pumpitupparty.com/mobile-al/ calendar/

December 2 Christmas Under the Oaks St. Luke’s Episcopal School

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 3rd Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

@ St. Luke’s Episcopal School 3975 Japonica Lane Mobile, AL 36693 Come see how we Deck the Halls at St. Luke’s. Please join us for annual Christmas Under the Oaks and Open House for current and prospective parents! A night filled with Santa, Science

December 5, 14, 19-21 Holiday Themed Duck Boat Tours

@ The Fort of Mobile 150 South Royal Street Mobile, AL 36602 12/5/19-Duck The Halls-Christmas Cocktail tour, 12/14/19, 12/19-12/21-The Santa Splashincludes stories, carols, hot chocolate, cookies, Santa Pictures, 12/19-12/20/19-The Mean Green Naughty Tour-includes stories, carols, hot chocolate, cookies, Santa Pictures and naughty tour, visit with the thief who stole Christmas! gulfcoastducks.com

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www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

December 3 A Jazz Band Christmas

@ Redemption Church 1251 Industrial Parkway Saraland, AL 36571 Christmas Time is Here! The UM Jazz Band is inviting you to join us for a classic Big Band Christmas Concert! 7:00pm www.itickets.com/events/434010

Lights of Love 2019

@ Geri Moulton Children’s Park 1700 Center Street Mobile, AL 36604 Join us for the annual Lights of Love tree lighting 5:30-7:30pm. The event will feature a 50-foot lighted holiday tree, children’s choirs, sweet treats, and visits with Santa and other children’s characters. (251) 415-1000 rmhcmobile.org

Tis the Season - Family Support’s Annual Fundraiser

@ Stevie’s Kitchen 41 W I-65 Service Rd N #150 Mobile, AL 36608 Join us for a wonderful buffet dinner, silent auction and door prizes while helping Mobile families. Funds raised will provide holiday assistance for families caring for a child with disabilities. famsupport.com

Trees for Hope

@ Dauphin Way Baptist Church 3661 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36608 Kick off the holiday season, browsing and bidding on wonderfully decorated Christmas trees and wreaths and enjoying fun and fellowship, all while helping to support children and families in our care. Time: 6:00pm (251) 463-8280 www.alabamachild.org/main/ funevents/trees-for-hope/

USA Concert Choir & University Chorale Holiday Concert

@ Laidlaw Performing Arts Center 5751 USA Drive South Mobile, AL 36688 USA Concert Choir and University Chorale Holiday Choral Concert will be held at 7:30pm. (251) 460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/music

December 3-21 Bragg-Mitchell Mansion Decorated for Christmas

Musical will be at The Steeple. office@thepactmobile.com www.thepactmobile.com

December 5 Christmas on the Keys

@ University of Mobile 5735 College Pkwy Eight Mile, AL 36613 Join with us as we celebrate the Christmas season with all your favorite holiday songs performed by the phenomenal piano students in the Alabama School of The Arts piano ensemble, Elite 88. www.umobile.edu/pas

December 6 Annual Chickasaw Christmas Parade

50 12th Avenue Chickasaw, AL 36611 Parade will be held at 6:30pm. The route will be from Grand Boulevard down West Lee Street to Jackson Street and ending at Miller’s Park where there will be music, refreshments and Christmas Cheer. (251) 452-6467 www.cityofchickasaw.org

Children’s Nutcracker Tea

@ Bragg-Mitchell Mansion 1906 Springhill Avenue Mobile, AL 36607 Please join us for a fun-filled afternoon of tea, delicious treats, and a delightful appearance by Mobile Ballet’s Nutcracker Dancers. Make sure to bring your camera. 3:30pm-5:00pm. (251) 471-6364 www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/4405204

Grand Bay Christmas Tree Lighting and Winter Wonderland Festival

12610 Old US 90 Grand Bay, AL 36541 Join us for games, shopping, food, entertainment and more! Santa Claus will make an appearance for pictures and to light the Christmas tree. 5:30pm-9:00pm www.facebook.com/GBCAComm/

Mobile Symphony Youth Orchestra “Holiday Concert”

@ Foley Civic Center 407 East Laurel Avenue Foley, AL 36535 The child musicians are sure to move audiences with sounds of the Christmas season. 7:00pm. (251) 943-1545 www.mobilesymphony.org

Santa at The Pillars

(251) 471-6364 www.braggmitchellmansion.com

(251) 307-5382 www.classiceventsco.com/themarket

@ Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join us at Mobile’s Saenger Theatre for Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” presented by The Playhouse-in-the-Park. 7:30pm (251) 602-0630 www.playhouseinthepark.org

December 4-6 The Pact Theatre Company presents “Elf, Jr.”

@ The Steeple 251 St. Francis Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for a new holiday tradition. Elf Jr. The Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

(251) 342-0555 mbg2@bellsouth.net www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org/event/a-holidaymarket-in-the-gardens/

December 6-7 Market on Sage

@ St. Pius Family Life Center 217 South Sage Avenue Mobile, AL 36606 St Pius X Catholic School is having their annual market! Come out and mark items off your Christmas list! (251) 471-2449 www.stpiustenth.com

@ Bragg-Mitchell Mansion 1906 Spring Hill Avenue Mobile, AL 36607 Tour the Mansion with traditional decorations adorning each room and enjoy the beauty of the season.. The gift shop will be open, Tu - Fri., 10:00am-4:00pm with with last tour at 3:00pm.

December 4 Playhouse in the Park presents “A Christmas Carol”

and buy local products. Friday 9:00am–4:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-1:00pm

@ The Pillars 1757 Government Street Mobile, AL 36604 Santa will be spending some time at the Pillars as locals come to show and sell works of art, crafts and other creations. 6:00pm-8:00pm.

Semmes Old Fashioned Christmas

@ Semmes Heritage Park 3871 Wulff Road Semmes, AL 36575 Celebrate Christmas as it was done in the early 1900’s. Guests gather in the replica Malone Chapel that is beautifully decorated, with entertainment, refreshments and tours. Fun, family event that showcases our history at Christmas time. www.cityofsemmesal.gov

December 6-7 Holiday Market and Art Bazaar

@ Mobile Botanical Gardens 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL 36608 Get your Holiday shopping done at this fun event

December 6-9 4th Annual Christmas Bazaar

@ Central Presbyterian Church 1260 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36604 Stock up on your holiday gifts and enjoy live holiday music, food trucks galore, and pictures with Santa Claus. Dec. 6-6:00pm-9:00pm, Dec 7.-9:00am-4:00pm, Dec 8-1:00pm-4:00pm. (251) 432-0591 www.cpcmidtown.com

December 6, 13, 21 and 22 Play Cafe - Christmas Activities

@ Play Cafe 4504 Old Shell Rd STE B Mobile, AL 36608 Join us for fun holiday events. December 6-Christmas Drop-off, December 13-Mom Mingle and shop, December 21-Snacks with Santa and December 22-Happy Birthday Jesus. Visit our website for more details and to sign up.

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December 7 2nd Annual Breakfast with Santa aboard The Polar Express

@ St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church 2034 St. Stephens Road Mobile, AL 36617 Join us for a homemade pancake breakfast, arts and crafts, face painting, a keepsake gift, the Polar Express movie and more! Santa himself will be there. Don’t forget to wear your favorite pajamas. $8 per person. 9:30-11:30am (251) 767-6012

7th Annual Holiday Market

@ OK Bicycle Shop 661 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for our 7th Annual Holiday Market from 11:00am-2:00pm, where we will have local vendors who bring their creative works of art, jewelry, novelties etc to provide those unique gifts to give.

Christmas at the Exploreum

@ Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center and IMAX Theatre 65 South Government Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for our annual Christmas at the Exploreum. Time: 3:00pm-7:00pm (251) 208-6873 www.exploreum.com

Christmas in Satsuma 2019 Arts & Crafts Festival @ Baldwin Square Satsuma, AL 36572

(251) 303-3022 www.cityofsatsuma.com

Christmas in the Country Bazaar

@ Tanner Williams United Methodist Church 1550 N Grand Bay Wilmer Rd Mobile, AL 36608 Our Annual Christmas in the Country Bazaar presented by the Tanner Williams UMC Women’s

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Group will be Saturday, December 7th from 9am1pm. Gift, Handcrafted, Baked Items and more.

Cathedral Square and Bienville Square Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for arts and crafts, fun activities, music,. pictures, dance performances and much more! Time: 10:00am-2:00pm.

(251) 649-3677

Classical Ballet Presents “Holiday Wonders”

(251) 666-2488 info@swmcchamber.com www.swmcchamber.com

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 2019 Santa Breakfast and Wreaths for Charity

(251) 208-1550 www.ncsmobile.org

@ Murphy High School Auditorium 100 S Carlen St Mobile, AL 36606 You will be delighted with a peek into Santa’s workshop, enchanted by our presentation of Nutcracker Suite, and inspired through exquisite pairing of sacred carols with the beauty of classical ballet. Time: 1:00pm-2:30pm.

Holiday Party at Dog Days Barkery!

@ SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL 36619 Free Santa breakfast-8:30am. (Limited VIP Breakfast tickets). Wreaths for Charity will offer wreaths and door hangers for viewing at Breakfast. They will be sold Dec. 11th, to benefit families in need during the holiday.

@ Dog Dayz Barkery 5552 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36608 We will have photography by Deep South Focus Photography, a special holiday treat, a hot cocoa bar, raffles, and more! Time: 10:00am-3:00pm.

(251) 410-4477 academy@classicalballetmobile.org www.classicalballetmobile.org

(251) 375-1734

Dauphin Island Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

www.dogdaysbarkery.net

(251) 666-2488 info@swmcchamber.com www.swmcchamber.com

Satsuma Christmas Parade

Satsuma , AL 36572 Join us for the Annual Satsuma Christmas Parade. Start Time: 11:00am

@ Water Tower Plaza Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Dauphin Island Annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, will begin about 5:00pm. The event will include pictures with Santa, caroling, snowball fights, hot chocolate, cookies and other activities.

December 7-8 Christmas Extravaganza- Children’s Fair & College Scholarship Fundraiser

www.cityofsatsuma.com

@ The Shoppes at Bel Air Mall 3299 Joe Treadwell Drive Mobile, AL 36606 Children will be selling their products for the holidays–Saturday-10am-4pm. Sunday-we will be raising funds to award our 4th College Scholarship. We will be on hand to fulfill your Christmas Shopping needs from 12:00pm-5:30pm.

Semmes Christmas Parade

Highway 98 to Firetower Rd Semmes, AL 36575 The Semmes Annual Christmas Parade with floats from area businesses and churches, marching bands, antique cars, and lots of throws will be held on Saturday, Dec. 7th beginning at 10:00am.

(251) 861-5524 www.dauphinislandchamber.com

Dauphin Island Christmas Parade

@ Cadillac Square Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Dauphin Island Christmas Parade at 11:00am.

www.eventbrite.com

(251) 649-8811 information@cityofsemmesal.gov www.cityofsemmesal.gov

www.townofdauphinisland.org

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 2019 Christmas Parade

Grand Bay Christmas Parade

Grand Bay, AL 36541 Spectacular Parade of Lights will roll at 7:00pm.

@ W.C. Griggs Elementary School 6001 Three Notch Road Mobile, AL 36619 Parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. Parade lineup

www.facebook.com/GBCAComm/

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Two-Hundred Years of Christmas in Alabama - Richards DAR House

@ Richards DAR House 256 North Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36603 Come bring in the holidays with us. This year the Museum will take you from 200 years past to present day Christmas in Alabama. There will be

• Riding - English, Western, and Jumping • Swimming • Heated Pool • Ropes Course • Climbing Tower • Outdoor Nature Skills • Sports • Soccer • Basketball

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begins at 8:30 a.m. at W.C. Griggs Elementary School on Three Notch Road in Tillman’s Corner.

Holiday Market & Christmas Kids Day

• Beach Volleyball • Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance • Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program • Campfires every night • Optional trips & more!

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

live entertainment, pictures with Santa, Famous Spiced Tea, bake sale and more. Admission-$10. Saturday-10am-4pm, Sunday-1pm-5pm. (251) 208-7320 www.richardsdarhouse.com

December 7-9 This Is Christmas Concert

@ Springhill Baptist Church 2 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for an Advent worship experience featuring the Spring Hill Baptist Church Sanctuary Choir, Orchestra, Living Masterpieces, Children’s Choir and Piano Ensemble. December 7- 4:00pm, 7:00pm and December 8:00pm. (251) 652-1037 www.shbc.cc

December 7, 14, 21 Winter Wonderland at Loblolly Farm

@ Loblolly Farm 9930 Stone Road Semmes, AL 36575 Gates open at 4 PM with food from local vendors, storytelling and hot chocolate by the campfire and thousands of lights for the holiday season. ($10 per car parking fee for this event) (251) 288-8302 www.loblollyfarm.com

December 8 Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes Christmas Open House

6512 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36695 Guests enjoy festive decorations and holiday foods at all locations, a live nativity, many receive guided tours from our children who are always so excited to show off their homes! 2:00pm-5:00pm

(251) 639-1022 mobile@alabamachild.org www.alabamachild.org

Bella Voce - Christmas Concert

@ St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 4051 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36608 Bella Voce of Mobile, Mobile’s Premiere Women’s Chorus, presents our twelfth annual Christmas Gift concert at 4:00pm, with a program in celebration of the Christmas and Holiday seasons. A festive reception will follow. www.bellavoceofmobile.org

Christmas on the Hill

@ Village of Springhill Mobile, AL 36608 Christmas on the Hill is an annual holiday event created and promoted by the Spring Hill Merchants Association. This year, a selection of the Village of Spring Hill’s finest boutiques and businesses, will once again open their doors with special store hours, holiday refreshments, Free Train Rides, photos with Santa, live performances, holiday music and a variety of children’s activities as well as sales and special merchandise promotions. 1:00pm5:00pm shmerchants@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ springhillmerchantsassociation

Mobile’s Singing Children Annual Christmas Concert

@ Cathedral of Immaculate Conception 2 South Claiborne Street Mobile, AL 36602 Christmas Concert featuring all four choirs. Program will consist of music by Benjamin Britten, John Rutter, Moses Hogan and more. The concert ends with our traditional O Holy Night and The First Noel. 3:00pm mobilesingingchildren@gmail.com www.mobilesingingchildren.org

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

Pet Photos with Santa

@ B&B Pet Stop 5035 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, AL 36693 Gather the furry, feathered, and 4 legged members of your family for a pet photo with Santa from 12:00pm-3:00pm. Benefits the Friends of the Mobile Animal Shelter. (251) 661-3474 www.bbpetstop.com

Roman Street and Marlow Boys Christmas

@ Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 Roman Street Christmas concert live at the Saenger Theatre! Roman Street will share the stage with Marlow Boys with special guests The Jazz Studio. Come hear Christmas Classics done in a new and exciting way! 7:30pm www.mobilesaenger.com/events/roman-street-andmarlow-boys-christmas/

The Market at the Pillars

@ The Pillars 1757 Government Street Mobile, AL 36604 A monthly market with over 50 local vendors: crafters, artists, farmers, makers and bakers and live music from local musicians. Free admission. Come get your Christmas shopping done! 12:00pm-4:00pm. (251) 307-5382 www.classiceventsco.com/themarket

December 9 Doug Breau: Classic Christmas

@ Central Presbyterian Church 1260 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36604 Join us for an unforgettable evening of your favorite holiday songs along with jazz and pop classics. www.dougbreau.com

Holiday Cheer

@ Five 609 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36602 Holiday Cheer to benefit the Child Advocacy Center will be from 6:00pm–8:30pm. The event will feature samplings of signature dishes, wines to taste, a live auction of holiday gifts and live music. (251) 432-1101 www.cacmobile.org

Pajama Storytime!

@ Toulminville Branch 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL 36617 Calling all ages for our Holiday Pajama Storytime! Enjoy an evening of Holiday stories, games & songs. Light refreshments will be served too. Time: 5:30pm-7:30pm. Registration is encouraged. (251) 438-7075 glaffiette@mplonline.org www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

December 10 Family Fun Night-Make Your Own Ornaments

@ West Regional Library 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Let’s make our own Holiday ornaments! All Ages. 6:00pm. Registration is encouraged, but not required. (251) 340-8571 westyou@mplonline.org www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

December 10-January 6 USA Children’s & Women’s Holiday Tree Trail

@ Geri Moulton Children’s Park 1700 Center Street Mobile, AL 36604 The Holiday Tree Trail is a free display of holiday trees for the community to enjoy in Geri Moulton Children’s Park. The trees will first light up at our

Lights of Love ceremony on December 10th, and will be open nightly from dusk until midnight.

December 12 The Mobile Pops Christmas Concert

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(251) 415-1000 cwhdevelop@southalabama.edu www.usahealthsystem.com

@ Davidson High School Auditorium 3900 Pleasant Valley Road Mobile, AL 36609 Join us at 7:00pm at Davidson High School for our annual Christmas Concert. (251) 679-6036 www.themobilepops.com

December 13 Azalea City Harmony Concert A Taste of the Holidays

@ Jon Archer Center 1070 Schillinger Road Mobile, AL 36608 Enjoy a delicious dessert buffet while listening to some of your favorite songs of the season. 7:30pm. Tickets-$15 (251) 366-2486 azaleacityharmony.com

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Elf-A-Palooza

@ Bienville Square Mobile, AL 36602 Join us downtown for Artwalk, come wearing red, green, an elf hat and - whatever you do - don’t forget your pointy ears! Time: 5:00pm-8:00pm. www.ncsmobile.org

December 14 2019 Semmes Christmas Tour

@ Allentown Elementary 10330 Howells Ferry Road Semmes, AL 36575 The Semmes Christmas Tour combines a Taste of Semmes, featuring tastings from local eateries from 3:00-4:30pm and a Tour of Semmes, featuring local homes decked out for the holidays plus local businesses offering extended hours/ discounts-3pm-8pm. (251) 288-7972 www.eventbrite.com/e/2019semmes-christmas-tour-tickets-58383078359

Annual “Christmas through the Ages” at Fort Gaines

@ Fort Gaines 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL 36528 This is a living history day for the whole family. See soldiers from the 1700s through the 1900s and their families as they celebrate a non-commercial Christmas. Admission:Adults-(age 13+)$8.00, Children-(age 5 to 12)$4.00. 9:00am-5:00pm. (251) 861-6992 fortgaines@outlook.com www.dauphinisland.org

Christmas at Oakleigh

@ Historic Oakleigh House Museum 300 Oakleigh Place Mobile, AL 36604 Celebrate the holidays with our famous Christmas decor and the opening of Oakleigh’s new exhibit Mobile Theater, light refreshments, and tours with the Oakleigh Belles. 5:00pm-8:00pm, Admission:$10 , FREE for HMPS members and children under 5.

(251) 432-1281 www.historicoakleigh.com/oakleighchristmas

Dauphin Island Christmas Boat Parade

Dauphin Island, AL 36528 The Dauphin Island Christmas Boat Parade will be held at 5:00pm. Parading boats will gather at Billy Goat Hole, then head to Dauphin Island Marina, entering the bays and coves to parade along the houses. (251) 432-3799 townofdauphinisland.org

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Dawes Christmas Parade

@ Living Word Church 2900 Dawes Road Mobile, AL 36695 Join us for the 8th Annual Dawes Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 14th at 1pm. (251) 633-0033 info@dawesbizconnect.com www.dawesbizconnect.com

Fowl River Boat Parade

@ Pelican Reef 11799 Dauphin Island Pkwy Theodore, AL 36582 The Christmas Boat Parade and After Party is from from 5:00pm-11:30pm. The boats in the parade are decorated with lights and go down the river making occasional stops to throw goodies to everyone on the docks.

Pictures with Santa

@ Mobile Flea Market 401 Schillinger Rd N Mobile, AL 36608 Join us at Mobile Flea Market on Saturday, December 14th from noon to 4pm for pictures with Santa! Come out for a memorable day. (251) 633-7533 www.mobilefleamarket.com

Saraland Christmas Parade 12:00pm.

(251) 675-4444 www.saralandchamber.com

Saraland Mistletoe Market

@ Saraland Municipal Complex Join us for the 3rd Annual Mistletoe Market from 9:00am– 4:00pm, come shop, eat, and more! (251) 675-4444 www.saralandchamber.com

The Mobile Pops Christmas Concert

@ Murphy High School 100 South Carlen Mobile, AL 36606 Enjoy a variety of holiday music performed by the Mobile Pops Band. 7:00pm (251) 679-6036 www.themobilepops.com

Theodore Church of God Live Nativity

@ Theodore Church of God 6360 Theodore Dawes Rd Theodore, AL 36582 Live Nativity-6:00pm-9:00pm. This is a one-nightonly free event with live animals, light show, Drama Team and much more. The public is invited to “Come by and celebrate the reason for the season!” www.theodorecog.com

December 14-15 Mobile Symphony presents “A Celtic Christmas”

@ Saenger Theatre 6 Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 December 14-7:30pm and December 15-2:30pm. (251) 432-2010 www.mobilesymphony.org

This Is Christmas Concert

@ Springhill Baptist Church 2 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL 36602 We invite you to join us for an Advent worship experience featuring the Spring Hill Baptist Church Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra. December 14 4:00pm, 7:00pm and December 15 - 4:00pm. (251) 652-1037 www.shbc.cc

December 15 Praise Family Church Community Christmas Party

2605 Dawes Rd, Mobile, AL 36695 5-8 pm. Please join us for pictures with Santa, letters to Santa with Mrs. Claus, train rides through our Christmas light display, and so much more!

December 16 PAWty with Santa - Doggy Happy Hour

December 20 Pajama Day Movie Marathon

December 18 Holiday Pajama Party!

(251) 340-1507 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

@ OK Bicycle Shop 661 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36602 Come out and enjoy a wonderful evening with your Dog and help raise funds for our friends at the Saraland Animal Shelter. Life music, Santa Pictures and Big Raffle. 4:00pm-7:00pm

@ West Regional Library 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Come watch a Holiday movie while you make a craft and enjoy cookies and cocoa bar while supplies last! Time: 6:00pm (251) 340-8571 westyou@mplonline.org www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

December 19 The Polar Express Party

(251) 494-4132 ftigner@mplonline.org www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

@ Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for classic Christmas movies on the big screen! December 19-7pm-”National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” Sunday-December-3pm”Meet Me in St. Louis.” Santa Claus will be at the theatre before each of the movies. www.mobilesaenger.com

December 21 Carpe Diem’s Santa Run

@ Carpe Diem Coffee And Tea Company 4072 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36608 The Santa Run is an annual 2 mile fun-run, walk, bike ride dog walking, fun for the whole family charity event. Don’t miss this opportunity to join the fun, spread the Christmas spirit. Holiday Costumes are encouraged. Time: 10:00am. www.carpe-coffee.com

@ Moorer/Spring Hill Branch 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL 36608 Enjoy cookies and hot cocoa while watching The Polar Express. 4:00pm-6:00pm

December 19, 22 Classic Christmas Movies at The Saenger Theatre

@ Ben May Main Library 701 Government St Mobile, AL 36602 Pajama Day Movie Marathon-10-3:30pm. 10:00am-The Polar Express-enjoy popcorn/ melted snow and see Santa. 12:00pm-Elf-enjoy snacks and sing-a-long. 2:00pm-The GrinchBring a donation for the Animal Shelter.

Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas

@ Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 This growing annual family-friendly Christmas tradition includes a performance by The Joe Cool Trio-performing Vince Guaraldi’s Soundtrack “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” They will be joined by the New Orleans All-Star horn section. Proceeds benefit Delta Dogs. 7:00pm (251) 208-5600 www.cbjazzchristmas.com

Gingerbread Decorating Party

@ Moorer/Spring Hill Branch 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL 36608 Calling all children, ages 5 and Up! 10:30am (251) 494-4132 ftigner@mplonline.org www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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December 23 Home Alone Movie & Ice Cream Party!

@ Ben May Main Library 701 Government St Mobile, AL 36602 Home Alone Movie & Ice Cream Party-2:00–2:30–Build an awesome Ice Cream Sunday 2:30–4:30–Watch the Home Alone Movie.

(251) 340-1507 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

December 26 Celebrating Kwanzaa 2019

@ Toulminville Branch 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL 36617 Family, Community, History & Culture - The Mobile Kwanzaa Committee invites families to join them for a celebration of community and heritage.3:00pm-6:30pm. (251) 438-7075 glaffiette@mplonline.org www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

December 28 Happy Noon Years

@ Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center and IMAX Theatre 65 South Government Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for our Happy Noon Years event at the Exploreum. Time: 10:00am-2:00pm

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(251) 208-6873 www.exploreum.com

December 29 Mannheim Steamroller

@ Mobile Civic Center 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL 36602 Experience the performance of the #1 Christmas music artist in history and for the first time ever hear the entire album that started it all, LIVE – Mannheim Steamroller Christmas! 7:30pm (251) 208-7906 www.mobilecivicctr.com

December 31 MoonPie Over Mobile New Year’s Eve Celebration

@ Downtown Mobile Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for an evening of celebratory activities leading up to the giant 600 pound electric MoonPie drop, laser light show and fireworks at midnight! Come be part of the 2019 celebration. (251) 208-1550 www.ncsmobile.org

Noon Year’s Eve Balloon Drop

@ Ben May Main Library 701 Government St Mobile, AL 36602 Participate in Karaoke, board games, video games, and crafts. Count down the time to 12:noon and ring in the New Year with a Noon Year’s Eve Balloon Drop. 10:30am-12:00pm. (251) 340-1507 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Noon Year’s Eve Balloon Drop

@ Moorer/Spring Hill Branch 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL 36608 Join us for a kid friendly countdown to Noon Year’s Eve with crafts and a balloon drop at NOON! 10:30am-12:00pm. (251) 494-4132 ftigner@mplonline.org www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Noon Year’s Eve Party!

@ West Regional Library 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Join us as we count down to the “Noon Year” and drop 2020 balloons! We’ll follow up the balloon drop with a glow dance party! 11:30pm-12:30pm (251) 340-8571 westyou@mplonline.org www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

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Parent-Teen Relationship Destroyers I have never had a mom tell me, “I want my daughter to be perfect,” or had a dad say, “I want to have absolute authority over my son.” Certainly, no parents have ever announced, “We want to be judgmental.” But I have heard hundreds of girls say, “My mom wants me to be perfect,” and hundreds of young men have said to me, “My dad rules our home with an iron fist.” And, thousands of teens have told me, “My parents are the most judgmental people I know.” As parents, we want a strong relational bond with our teens. But sometimes, despite our good intentions, we can be doing the very things that destroy these relationships. So what are the primary culprits that break our connection with our kids? Here are the four “most wanted” relationship destroyers.

#1: DEMANDING PERFECTION

At a recent parenting seminar, I asked each mom and dad to pull out their cell phone and text this question to their teen, “Do you think I expect you to be perfect?” After about five minutes, every phone in the auditorium started beeping with replies. About 95% of the teens said they did believe their parents wanted them to be perfect. As parents, we want great things for our kids. That’s why we try so hard to push them towards excellence. But there’s a line between encouraging excellence and creating unreasonable expectations. When we place unattainable standards before our kids, we always risk raising expectations so high that our kids just give up. Some kids will begin to rebel to prove they are in control of their own lives. Others will become hyper-aware of the high standards and turn to drastic measures in order to achieve them. We need to balance between wanting the best for our teens, and setting up impossible expectations. If you have never shared your personal flaws with your kids, they haven’t had an opportunity to see what it’s like to live with imperfection. Instead, they think that faultlessness is normal. By admitting your flaws, you give your kid permission to make mistakes

and be imperfect, and you allow your teen to connect with you in a deeper way. Plus, as your kids see your own successes and failures, they’ll understand that it’s possible to have a good life even when they’ve messed up and fallen short.

#2: HAVING A JUDGMENTAL ATTITUDE

This relationship destroyer is sneaky. I’ve witnessed parents using voice inflection, body language, and even Bible verses to make a valid point to their son or daughter— but the child only hears a harsh judgment being given. When you take a stand on issues like marijuana, homosexuality, religion, or even movies, your child may interpret your words as unfair criticism. Now, it might sound like your teen is putting words in your mouth. I mean, you’re not a judgmental person, right? But let me ask you; have you rolled your eyes when your daughter came out wearing certain outfits? Have you withheld hugs or signs of affection when your son disappointed you? We’ve all been there at one time or another. The problem is, these actions can be seen as coming from a judgmental spirit, and teens pick up on that quickly. It’s okay to voice your concern or disappointment, but be careful that you don’t belittle your kids or look down on their friends when you do so. Display grace in your actions and attitudes. And take time to listen to your son or daughter with a caring heart. You don’t have to offer your opinion to every conversation. But if your teen does ask you to speak into a topic, preface your thoughts with, “I don’t want you to think I’m being judgmental, but these are my feelings.”

#3: THE NEED TO CONTROL

As parents, we want to protect our kids. But our desire to protect can morph into an unconscious habit of control. And that habit crushes relationships! Do you want to control your son when he’s 20? Of course not! How about 18? I would guess “no.” So what about when he’s 55

15? You can see where I’m going. If you don’t want to be controlling your children when they’re adults, the teenage years are the best training grounds for slowly and carefully making that handoff. When teens feel like mom and dad control every aspect of their life, that’s when they start to act out. Rebellion is an effort to take back decision-making power, even if the resulting decisions are very poor ones. There was a sweet girl who was staying with us at our Heartlight campus and she was fond of piercings, but her parents were not. For this teen, piercing her body was a way to take control back from her parents who (with good intentions) maintained tight control over her life. Once the parents started to let their daughter make more decisions on her own, guess what? Somehow, those piercings started to disappear.

#4: CONSTANT NEGATIVTY

Try this little exercise this week—start counting the times you say, “You need to…” “What you should’ve done…” (or phrases like these) to your teen. You may be surprised how many times those types of comments come out of your mouth. A foolproof method to get your kid to shut down is to speak more negative than positive words into their lives. If you spend more time criticizing than encouraging, judging than training, condemning than approving, you’re slowly eating away at a relationship with your child. Be intentional about finding positive behaviors, actions, and attitudes for which you can praise your child. I realize that these words are tough to take. It’s not easy to hear that something we may be doing as parents is destroying our relationship with our kids. We can all readily admit that we don’t have parenting down perfectly. To build great relationships with our kids, we have to be willing to evaluate our attitudes and actions, and continue building strong and healthy ties with our teens. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

FamilyCalendar Monday November 25

USA Symphony Band Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Symphony Band Fall Concert 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/upcomingevents.html

Wednesday November 27

Popcorn & a Movie: Pokemon Detective Pikachu (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Popcorn & a Movie: Pokemon Detective Pikachu 251-340-1535 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday November 28

Turkey Trot For Hope 8:00 AM Mardi Gras Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 Come run the Turkey Trot for Hope certified 5k race and 1 mile Gobble Wobble fun run with us on Thanksgiving Day! It is a chance to kick the day off with a little turkey spirit, gather with your family and to burn those extra calories in preparation for the impending feast. Most importantly, it is an opportunity to give thanks by giving back to a great cause, Camp Rap-A-Hope. raceroster.com/events/2019/25056/turkey-trot -for-hope 49th Annual Thanksgiving Pow Wow ($5 for 7 & up, free for 6 & under)

Friday November 29

49th Annual Thanksgiving Pow Wow ($5 for 7 & up, free for 6 & under)

10:00 AM Poarch Creek Indian Reservation, Atmore, AL Join us for the 49th Annual Thanksgiving Pow Wow at the Poarch Creek Indian Reservation /pci-nsn.gov/wordpress/services/community-services/cultural-department/ Rock, Gem and Mineral Show 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, AL, 36695 Over 30 Jewelry, Gem, Fossil, and Mineral dealers. A real, working Gem Sluice to mine your own treasures.Kids activities. Raffle and Silent Auction.

Saturday November 30

Rock, Gem and Mineral Show 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, AL, 36695 Over 30 Jewelry, Gem, Fossil, and Mineral dealers. A real, working Gem Sluice to mine your own treasures.Kids activities. Raffle and Silent Auction.

Sunday December 1

Rock, Gem and Mineral Show 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, AL, 36695 Over 30 Jewelry, Gem, Fossil, and Mineral dealers. A real, working Gem Sluice to mine your own treasures.Kids activities. Raffle and Silent Auction. Delta Discovery Pontoon Boat Tour ($20 Adults, $12 Ages 6-12)

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 This 90-minute excursion into the wild and scenic lower reaches of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta--known as the “American Amazon”--introduces visitors and local

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

residents alike to a truly astounding natural habitat. Offered in conjunction with December’s 1st Sunday Outdoor Market. Departs from the Bartram Landing at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center. www.blakeleypark.com

Monday December 2

USA Clarinet Studio Fall Recital 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Clarinet Studio Fall Recital 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/upcomingevents.html

Tuesday December 3

Teen Tuesdays in the Teen Spot! (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM, West Regional Library , 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Teen Spot to learn how to make 3D drawings with our 3D Pens. Supplies and snacks provided. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Tinker (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Design & Create-Learn how to make Snowman Stress Balls. Space and supplies are limited. Registration is encouraged. 251-494-4140 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Cheers for Charity and Holiday Market 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM, Mission Fitness, 951 Government St Suite A Mobile, AL, 36604 Join us for a holly jolly good time filled with sips, nibbles, and everything you could ever want under the tree…all to support Mission’s final [Charity of Choice] for 2019.

Wednesday December 4

Mobile’s First Annual Port City Cocktail Challenge ($30) 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Mobile Carnival Museum, 355 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 All funds will go toward transportation costs for our “Road to Recovery Program” which helps cancer patients get rides to doctor appointments and treatments. 251-344-9858

Thursday December 5

Bay Bash 6:00 PM Gulfquest, 155 South Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Bay Bash is an annual celebration of the beauty, health, and heritage of Mobile Bay and our coastal communities. The event features delicious local seafood from chefs, caterers, and restaurants in Mobile and Baldwin Counties, cocktails, live music, and a silent auction all along the Mobile River. www.mobilebaykeeper.org/bay-bash Wine and Wishes 6:30 PM Ezell House, 407 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us at our 3rd annual Wine & Wishes benefiting Make A Wish Alabama! Our goal this year is to grant the wishes of 2 local wish kids with critical illnesses. There are currently more than 40 children on the waiting list in Alabama. www.eventbrite.com

Friday December 6

Pop Up Maker Lab (Free) 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Come

see what fun stuff we have in our Maker Lab. Parental supervision is required for anyone under age 10. 251-494-4140 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org After School Special (Free) 3:30 PM West Regional Library , 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us for a winter craft and snack! All ages. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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Saturday December 7

Living History Crew Drill 8:00 AM USS Alabama Battleship, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36603 Come see history come to life with our WWII historical reenactors as they board the battleship USS ALABAMA and submarine USS DRUM. Be on deck for “call to battle stations” at 1:00 p.m. and watch the crew repels air attacks www.ussalabama.com Be My Neighbor Day (Free)

9:00 AM The Grounds, 1035 Cody Rd North Mobile, AL, 36608 Meet first responders and enjoy crafts and activities with community partners while learning about ways to do something nice for your neighbor. It’s a “grr-ific” way to begin a lifetime of volunteerism! We will be collecting new and gently used coats, jackets, and sweater to donate to a neighbor in need. Excursion to the Bottle Creek Indian Mound Complex ($35 adults/$17 children ) 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Lower Bryant’s Landing, 8900 Lower Bryant Landing Stockton, AL, 36570 Blakeley Park offers a guided excursion to the famous Bottle Creek Mounds, one of the Gulf Coast’s largest Native American mound centers. www.blakeleypark.com Barking Up the Wrong Tree: That Tree is Not a Source (Free) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The free genealogy workshop will focus on evaluating genealogical sources and avoiding common pitfalls. In addition to the morning workshop, there will be a special afternoon session honoring Clotilda descendant, Lorna Woods. A light lunch will be provided. Registration is required. 251-494-2172 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org The 0.5K Pub “Run” & Block Party 10:30 AM Moe’s Original Bar B Que, 701 Springhill Avenue Mobile, AL, 36602 The Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama’s Young Professional’s Committee is hosting The 0.5K Pub “Run” & Block Party, a “run” for the rest of us to support BBBSSA’s mission. www.classy.org/event/the-0-5k-pub-run-and-blockparty/e237679 Reading PAWS (Free) 12:00 PM West Regional Library , 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Come meet the Pet Therapy dogs and their owners. Learn all about the dogs and the services they provide the community. Practice your reading skills with a four-legged friend. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org STEM Saturday! (Free) 2:00 PM West Regional Library , 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us for some STEM, (science, technology, engineering and math) fun and exploration at the Library! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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FamilyCalendar Mad Scientist Club (Free) 5:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for Kid Friendly Experiments and discover the outcome and results of the scientific methods we use. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

KIDZ BOP concert. www.mobilesaenger.com

KIDZ BOP World Tour 6:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602

Sunday December 8

An Unveiling: Celebrating the Souls of Mobile by Ginger Woechan 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Hayleys Bar, 278 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Please join us for the grand reveal of Mobile’s newest mural by Ginger Woechan, titled “Souls of Mobile”. The block party will feature performances by the Excelsior Band and Harrison McGinnis, flowers by Julia Greer Fobes: Fashion, Art and Flowers, tastings with Absolute and Jameson, and more! mobilearts.org 5 Rivers Matinee (Free) 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us as we play “Shrek the Halls” all day in our H.D. surround-sound theater. Free, no registration required. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Monday December 9

Crafty Mondays with Mr. Butch (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Join Mr. Butch for an hour of seasonal arts and crafts. 251-494-4140 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday December 10

paintings but have no idea how to begin? Join us and learn how to paint with acrylics. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Alabama Contemporary Art Center Kids Studio (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join staff from the Alabama Contemporary Art Center to explore contemporary art and music through hands-on and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of art. 251-340-1535 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Friday December 13

Winter Sunset Cruise ($12.50 adults, $7 kids ages 6-12) 4:30 PM 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945

Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us for a pontoon boat tour with Blakeley State Park’s “Delta Explorer”! Late Fall and Winter sunsets on Mobile Bay are some of the most brilliant and colorful of the year. Come along on a brief relaxing voyage departing from the Bartram Landing at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center as we experience nature’s splendor, and be back in time to grab a seafood dinner on the Causeway! www.blakeleypark.com Little Red School House Plaque Unveiling 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Little Red Schoolhouse, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Join us for a Silent Auction, tasty eats & drinks, music and fellowship. townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday December 14

Reindeer Run 5K and Fun Run 8:00 AM Baldwin Square, Old Highway 43, Satsuma, AL, 36572 5K course through the neighborhoods of Satsuma and 1 Mile Fun Run events.com Coffee and Crafts (Free) 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for coffee and crafts! Bring your own projects or make a Pallet sign with us. Teens and Adults 251-494-4140 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Mad Scientist Club (Free) 5:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for Kid Friendly Experiments and discover the outcome and results of the scientific methods we use. 251-494-4140 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Reptile Extravaganza B&B Pet Stop, 5035 Cottage Hill Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Family-Friendly Reptile Show + Sale www.bbpetstop.com

Wednesday December 11

Reptile Extravaganza B&B Pet Stop, 5035 Cottage Hill Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Family-Friendly Reptile Show + Sale www.bbpetstop.com

Learning Lunch (Free) 12:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This series allows guests to enjoy free presentations on a wide range of historical and cultural topics. Admission to Learning Lunch is free. Bring your lunch and enjoy complimentary beverages. 251-208-7569 www.museumofmobile.com

Thursday December 12

Word/Play with ACAC (Free) 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Staff from the Alabama Contemporary Art Center join us for Family Storytime on the 2nd Thursday of the month. Preschoolers will explore contemporary art and music through handson and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of art. 251-340-1535 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents Beauty & the Beast Jr. 7:00 PM Baker High School, 8901 Airport Blvd Mobile, AL, 36608 Beauty & the Beast Jr. shows will be held December 20, & 21 at 7 pm & 21 & 22 at 2 pm www.sunnysidedrama.com

Saturday December 21

Reading PAWS (Free) 2:00 PM West Regional Library , 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Come meet the Pet Therapy dogs and their owners. Learn all about the dogs and the services they provide the community. Practice your reading skills with a four-legged friend. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents Beauty & the Beast Jr. 2:00 PM Baker High School, 8901 Airport Blvd Mobile, AL, 36608 Beauty & the Beast Jr. shows will be held December 20, & 21 at 7 pm & 21 & 22 at 2 pm www.sunnysidedrama.com 5 Rivers Matinee (Free) 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join the Peanuts gang for this Christmas classic, “A Charlie Brown Christmas”! Playing all day in our H.D. surroundsound theater. Free and open to the public. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Tinker (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Learn how to make Snowman Slime. 251-494-4140 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday December 26

For Children Family Day 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 We will

Friday December 20

Sunday December 22

Tuesday December 17

Teen Art Scene (Free) 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM, West Regional Library , 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Want to create beautiful

PowerLines Poetry 6:00 PM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 PowerLines Poets, a Mobile-based poetry troupe featuring local writers and performers is returning to the Mobile Museum of Art for a night of poetry. PowerLines Poets will be performing and inviting guest poets to take the mic as well. Join us for an evening of spoken artistry. www.mobilemuseumofart.com

Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents Beauty & the Beast Jr. Baker High School, 8901 Airport Blvd Mobile, AL, 36608 Beauty & the Beast Jr. shows will be held December 20, & 21 at 7 pm & 21 & 22 at 2 pm www.sunnysidedrama.com

Sunday December 15

Thursday December 19

celebrate the new and improved exhibition with a kid-friendly, Winter Wonderland-themed opening party, only open to Mobile Museum of Art members*, with art activities provided by the Museum School, face painting, a bouncy house, food trucks, and lots of fun just in time for the holidays. www.mobilemuseumofart.com

Teen Art Scene (Free) 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM, West Regional Library , 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Bring your ideas to the Teen Spot. Enjoy the time and space to be creative. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Saturday December 28

2019 Nutcracker Charity Ball 6:00 PM Arthur R. Outlaw Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The magical

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FamilyCalendar evening of the Ball includes a performance by the Mobile Ballet Company and students of the Mobile Ballet School, as well as presentation of our Nutcracker Charity Ball debutantes. mobileballet.org/community-outreach/nutcrackercharity-ball/

Thursday January 3

TGIT (Thank Goodness It’s Thursday) Hangout Special (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Watch the Lion King while painting Kindness Rocks and eating popcorn. 251-340-1535 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Saturday January 4

Mobile Alabama Bowl Activities Mardi Gras Parade 6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 The skies of downtown Mobile will be filled with beads, moon pies and more as the Mobile Alabama Bowl presents Mobile’s largest Mardi Gras Parade with floats from 20 mystical societies. mobilealabamabowl.com

Sunday January 5

Sing Along with Mobile Opera (Free) 2:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Enjoy the music and sing-along to some of your favorite songs from The Phantom of the Opera. Fans are encouraged to come in costume of their favorite character! Costume and vocal talent not required. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Mobile Alabama Bowl Activities Pep Rally and Street Party Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Fans are invited to attend the official bowl team pep rallies and the This Is Alabama street party starts in Mardi Gras Park with music and fun. This event is free and open to the public. mobilealabamabowl.com

Monday January 6

Mobile Alabama Bowl 6:30 PM Ladd-Peebles Stadium, 1621 Virginia Street Mobile, AL, 36604 A national television audience will tune in to ESPN on Monday, January 6, 2020, for the 21st Annual Mobile Alabama Bowl. mobilealabamabowl.com

Saturday January 11

Mardi Gras Ball Fundraiser 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, The Pillars, 1757 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36604 Family friendly Mardi Gras Ball fundraiser to help fund inclusive recreational activities for all abilities. We help enable those with special needs to lead healthy and active lifestyles by way of wheelchair racing, having access to the beach via beach mats and beach wheelchairs, and more. www.eventbrite.com

Saturday January 12

Servis1st Bank Mobile Marathon 7:30 AM Government Street at Claiborne Mobile, AL, 36602 Marathon & Half Marathon and 1.2 Mile Fun Run benefiting L’Arche Mobile Foundation. www.larchemobile.org

Friday January 17

Black Jacket Symphony: Led Zeppelin 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Black Jacket Symphony returns to the Saenger Theatre on Friday, January 17 to perform a full night of music from Led Zeppelin. www.mobilesaenger.com/events/the-black-jacketsymphony-presents-led-zeppelin/

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

Every Day in November

Fall Outdoor Cascading Chrysanthemums 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Mum’s the word at Bellingrath Gardens and Home in November, when it’s time for the 56th Annual Fall Outdoor Cascading Chrysanthemums, the nation’s largest outdoor display of the signature blooms of the season. 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

Every Monday

Introductory Piano Class (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This is an introduction to piano class for those who have no experience or need a review of the basics. Ages 8-18. Participants will learn how to read music, find notes on the piano, and discover other essentials to begin playing pieces. Registration is required. For more information or to register, please call the Children’s Department at 340-1507 or email crhodes@mplonline.org. 251-340-1535 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Mystery Monday (Free) 3:15 PM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Pkwy B Mobile, AL, 36605 Join us after school for fun, games, arts & crafts, prizes and surprises! Ages 6 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Tuesday

Games and More! (Free) 3:00 PM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Enjoy board & video games, movies, puzzles and so much more! Ages 7 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Movie Tuesday (Free) 3:15 PM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Pkwy B Mobile, AL, 36605 Movie Tuesday www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday

5 Rivers StoryTime (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. 1011am, free, no registration necessary. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Every Saturday

Art & Rhyme Wiggle Time Storytime (Free) 10:30 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Simple stories and music introduce the sounds and rhythms of language and play to your little learner. Join us for a wiggle, rhyme, read and sing, active story time – and a craft too! (Ages 18 months-3 years) 251-340-1535 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Kids Studio ($5 or free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with handson projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org

First Sunday of every month

1st Sunday Outdoor Market 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Featuring local arts & crafts, farmers’ market, and outdoor-themed items. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

First and Third Sunday

Animal Ambassadors 2:00 PM - 2:30 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource 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. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Classes/Meetings APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, 445 Azalea Road. Parent, Youth/Teen Group and Childcare Is Provided. Topic Discussions & ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information please call 251-460-2727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@childrensaid.org.

Every Wednesday

Learn to Knit (Free) 2:00 PM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Learn to knit. Ages 8 and up. Bring your own supplies. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org What’s up Wednesday (Free) 3:15 PM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Pkwy B Mobile, AL, 36605 Enjoy Bingo, Karaoke, LEGO challenges and so much more! Refreshments will be served. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Thursday

Autism Support Group in North Mobile We have a social play room for higher functioning children (4 and up) to engage and relate. The idea is to have a safe place for parents of Autistic children in our community to link up and network with other families. 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 6 7:30 p.m., Saraland United Methodist Church, 415

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TGIT Hangout! (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Have fun with LEGO challenges, arts & crafts, games and more. 251-340-1535 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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FamilyCalendar McKeough Ave., Saraland. For more info or to RSVP contact Chris Gibson. Email Chrisgibson4149@gmail. com, or 251-281-7312.

2085, amandaLLLmobile@yahoo.com, meghanLLL@ yahoo.com, or michelleLLLmobile@yahoo.com. Facebook: La Leche League Mobile Bay Area.

Breast Feeding Friendly Group (The BFF Group) A place where new moms can get one-on-one breastfeeding help. Get to know other moms within the same community and possibly become a mentor. Breastfeeding professionals are able to provide newborn weight checks before and after feeding to help you to know if your baby is getting enough to eat. Nurses and other medical personnel can answer general questions. All are welcome, even if you haven’t delivered yet. Spouses and other support partners are also welcome. Every Monday from 5:30 pm to 7 pm and Thursdays from 9 am to 11 am. (Except major holidays). We meet at The Allen Cox Building Conference Room, 205 Lambert Avenue, Mobile.

Survivors of Suicide Support Group Meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lifelines Counseling Services, 705 Oak Circle Drive, Mobile. SOS is here to provide a supportive and judgement-free environment for you to express yourself and share your story.

Bridge Support Group The Bridge support group is a place where parents with similar experiences come together to share stories, advice and love. These families have had babies who: were stillborn, born with a lethal anomaly (such as Trisomy 13, Trisomy 18, skeletal dysplasia, anencephaly) or had a baby that only lived in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Our families are from all over the Gulf Coast and all have beautiful stories to tell. 1st Tuesday of every month, 5:30pmuntil. Dinner is served. Meets in 1st floor conference room of Strada Center, 1601 Center Street, Mobile. Contact information: Rene Sprague RN, MSN rgilstrapsprague@health.southalabama.edu 251-6105264. Please RSVP if you plan to attend. Circle Of Hope, Sexual Assault Support Group Group meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Call Lifelines Counseling Services to schedule a 30 minute appointment before attending the group 251-431-5100. COH is a support group for victims of sexual violence to share in their struggles and learn ways to begin to cope with the pain and daily stressors that trigger the hurt. This group is free to attend. The Family Center The Family Center’s classes in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH minimum 24-HOUR RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. All classes provide a certificate of completion. The Family Center of Mobile *Nurturing Parenting course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Call 251479-5700 to register. *The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. See daily listings for class topics. *Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 weeks. *Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (Four things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. *Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks.251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center classes. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. www.familycentermobile.org or www.Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile. La Leche League Mobile Bay Area Breastfeeding support meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Meetings are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader. 251-689-

Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, call childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000. • Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Preregistration is required; call 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. • Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia. Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care. Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital offers a variety of classes on Childbirth Preparation. All classes meet in Conference Room 1, (located just inside the front doors in the main lobby of the hospital by the gift shop), unless otherwise specified. Preregistration is required for all classes, and fees are collected in class. To register for classes, please visit our website at www.providencehospital.org, Women’s Services and click “Childbirth and Breastfeeding Classes. If you have any questions, please email us at maternityservices@ascension.org or call 251266-1749.

lost a child before or immediately after birth. Meets the fourth Monday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. Call 460-5323.

Spring Hill Medical Center: www.springhillmedicalcenter.com • Better Breathers Support Group Meeting For people with pulmonary disorders. Meets on the fourth Monday of each month. 2-3 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. For more information, call 461-2438. • Breastfeeding Class One Wednesday per month. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Family Center. Benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, going back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation Classes Four consecutive Mondays (6:30-9 p.m.) at The Family Center. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units.Cost: $25 if delivering at Springhill Hospital. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation: Accelerated Course: One Saturday per month. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The Family Center. Ideal for those who live out of town or will be delivering soon. $25. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register.

• Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings: Noon on the First Sunday of the month. Join us for an individualized tour and instruction for siblings ages 9 and younger. The event includes a tour of the maternity areas and tips on helping parents with the new baby. Parents must remain with their children. Call 340-7769. • Infant CPR: Learn this potentially life-saving technique while you are pregnant or soon after your baby’s birth. Covers infant CPR and choking. $5 if delivering at SMC. 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Family Center (Bldg. 2, Fourth Floor). Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Resolve Through Sharing: For parents who have

USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 251-415-1685 or at www. usahealthsystem.com/usacwh. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Classes are free if you are delivering at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital. All classes will meet in the 1st floor conference room next to the surgery waiting room. • Preparing for Childbirth: All-day Saturday class for the expectant mother and her support person (coach). Topics include: pregnancy changes, labor, role of the support coach, relaxation and breathing techniques, vaginal and cesarean births, postpartum care, and a tour of the maternity areas. . You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Offered monthly from 9 am to 2 pm. • Childbirth in a Nutshell: This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets one Wednesday per month, 6-8:30 p.m. • Breastfeeding: This two-hour class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Classes meet one Thursday per month from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and one Saturday per month from 10:00-Noon. • Classes on Preeclampsia, Developmental Milestones, Child Safety/Head Injury and Infant Safety are also available throughout the year. Call for details.

Please send your calendar events to lynn@ mobilebayparents.com. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

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Ford v Ferrari

Last Christmas

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: C Alcohol / Drug Use: Lee Iacocca (Jon Bernthal) has an idea. The rising young Ford executive wants teenage Baby Boomers to perceive Ford cars as cool; not as stodgy family vehicles with declining market share. To reach this goal, Iacocca urges Henry Ford II (Tracy Letts) to develop a racing division that can compete in Europe. Ford is dismissive, until a personal insult from Italian racecar maker Enzo Ferrari (Remo Girone) stings his pride. Determined to best Ferrari at his own game, Ford gives Iacocca carte blanche to hire whomever he needs to defeat the Italian on the fabled LeMans course. In Iacocca’s mind, the best man for the job is Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon), the only American to have won at LeMans, now sidelined by a heart condition. And Shelby is convinced that the best driver is Ken Miles (Christian Bale), a stubborn, temperamental Englishman whose racing career was derailed by his military service in World War II. Shelby and Miles find themselves struggling on two fronts: first, to develop the fastest car in the world; and second, to survive the constant corporate infighting among the Ford executives. Even if you, like me, aren’t interested in cars, this movie offers drama between larger-than-life characters, excellent acting, a tense true story, a gut-punch of a plot twist, laugh out loud comedy, and heart-rending moments. With something for everyone, this pulse-pounding popcorn pic is sure to be one of the biggest hits of the year. The biggest drawback to this film is profanity, with approximately 40 uses of crude language, including a single sexual expletive. To counterbalance the swearing, Ford v Ferrari is chock full of positive themes.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: ASexual Content: BProfanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C Despite working in a Christmas shop in Covent Garden, Kate (Emilia Clarke) has lost any festive spirit she might have had. Spiraling into full fledged grinch-iness, she is losing herself in alcohol, casual sex, and a bottomless well of self-absorption. She’s run out of friends who are willing to lend her couch-space, she’s in a state of constant conflict with her mother and sister, and she can’t get over the emotional aftereffects of a serious health crisis. Then she meets Tom (Henry Golding), a handsome stranger who treats her with empathy instead of judgment. “Look up,” he tells her. As she takes his advice, she begins to rise above her despair. Last Christmas is a difficult film to review because it turns on a plot twist I can’t describe without ruining the show for you. I also can’t share my reaction to it for the same reason. Suffice it to say, that even though this movie sounds like a typical rom-com, it’s anything but... Compared to standard genre fare, Last Christmas stacks up well. It’s blessed with some outstanding actors. Along with good acting, this movie is packed full of positive messages tied up in sparkling ribbon. The biggest gift this film gives parents is its relative lack of negative content. Although Kate drinks heavily to deal with her painful emotions, her alcohol use is not glamorized. Most surprisingly for a rom-com, there is no explicit nudity or sexual content. Although Kate has some one night stands, no sexual activity is seen, only implied. Good points aside, this isn’t a flawless film. The pacing drags at times, there are some cheesy moments. Still, while Last Christmas might not be the perfect gift under the tree, it’s far better than a lump of coal.

Arctic Dogs

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A Mail room clerk Swifty (voiced by Jeremy Renner) has a dream: to become a Top Dog, a star courier with the Arctic Blast Delivery Service. There’s just one problem: Swifty is a fox, not a dog. Feeling trapped in his dead end job, Swifty decides to prove his mettle so he steals a sled and heads out to develop a package. But this delivery is more than Swifty bargained for, as he learns when he winds up in the sights of evil villain Otto Von Walrus (voiced by John Cleese). Can a little fox defeat a supervillain whose dastardly plan will destroy the earth as we know it? There’s not much doubt about the answer to this question. Of course, Swifty and his friends will triumph. This is a kids’ movie, after all. The critters aren’t going to wind up dead in a snowy wasteland. The real question is whether the journey to this happy ending is worth taking. For adults, the answer is no. The predictable story line feels like a great first draft that needed a bit more polish and the jokes are aimed at the under-twelve crowd. Arctic Dogs is the kind of film that leaves adults longing for their phones and a round of Candy Crush to fend off the boredom. For young audiences, Arctic Dogs is lots of fun. I brought two of my sons to the movie and they laughed out loud at the corny jokes and slapstick physical comedy. And, on the bright side, this production serves up some positive themes along with the cheesy jokes. The movie is pleasant and harmless but not worth the ticket price at the local multiplex. Wait until it comes out online or on DVD and enjoy it from your couch. If you’re going to nap during a movie, you might as well do it in the comfort of your home. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2019

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: BSexual Content: A Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood is not the movie I expected. It is not a biopic of Fred Rogers, it’s not a happy little movie for kids, it’s not a tribute to children’s television. Instead, it uses the format of an episode of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood to introduce us to Lloyd Vogel. I was skeptical that setting up a television episode as a narrative frame for a feature film would work, but it does. Mr. Rogers (played by Tom Hanks) sings his welcome song, puts on his running shoes, shows a picture of his friend, Lloyd, and then plays a clip about magazines on Picture Picture. When the story changes locations, the camera zooms around model buildings as toy cars and planes move from set to set. It sounds odd, but it is strangely effective in moving us from Lloyd’s world to Mr. Rogers’ world. The journey between their worlds is not just physical. The power of this film comes from Vogel’s voyage into Mr. Rogers’ life. The cynical writer is initially convinced that Fred Rogers can’t really be as good as he seems; he must be hiding something. He is bemused by the man’s all-encompassing empathy, his patient acceptance of others, and his sincere humility. Given the emotional issues in this movie, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood is not a movie for children. Not because of content issues – there are no serious problems here – but because this is a movie aimed at adults. There’s an emotional depth that adults will find deeply moving, not just in the ability of one man to change, but in the power of another man’s example and legacy. 60

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I wish I could see the board instead of trying to read through your vape cloud. - Sarah, 8th Grade

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