Mobile Bay Parents July 18 by KeepSharing

The Region’s

Leader

in Births

At USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital, more families trust us to deliver their babies than any other hospital in the region. With that trust comes our commitment to health care focused on the needs of infants, children and women.

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Our highly trained team of physicians and nurses will give you and your baby the best care close to home. And if your baby needs more specialized care, you won’t have to be separated. We have the area’s only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Our promise to you is our mission: We help people lead longer, better lives.

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July2018

Volume 8 Number 4

Columns

From the Publisher 4

Living With Children John Rosemond

After the First Year

Meaningful, yet simple, ways to mark the milestones in your child’s life.

Beyond the Birthday Party

Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Another Birthday, Another Check-Up We may hope others conveniently “forget” our birthdays as we get older, but as parents, a child’s birthday is one thing we never overlook. Once the birthday festivities have quieted down, it’s time to start thinking about your child’s annual pediatric check up. Most people think there are three reasons to bring a child to the doctor: when a child is sick– otherwise known as a “sick visit”, when a child needs a sports physical form, or when a child needs one or more vaccinations. While these are certainly good reasons to make a check up appointment, there is much more that goes into a check up, or wellness visit. One of the reasons I love being a pediatrician is the focus on education and preventative care. I’ve found it much easier to encourage the development of healthy habits in childhood. Some of these preventative discussions can be addressed during sick visits, but can be addressed more thoroughly during wellness visits.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

Many believe if their child is seeing a pediatrician regularly for sick visits, there is no need to make an extra, annual wellness visit. But this is how small things can be missed! During sick visits, a physician is generally focused on diagnosing the problem and finding a treatment plan. For wellness exams, the mind set of a physician is much different– as they evaluate your child’s health as a whole. Your pediatrician takes your child’s growth and development into consideration, in conjunction with his or her overall health during the last year, along with any family history concerns. This allows a pediatrician to give better proactive care to your child. Puberty is another consideration during check ups. If puberty is beginning too soon (it is sometimes subtle and missed by parents at home or even physicians on sick visits), then it may be too late to identify and correct if they have not been in for check ups in 2-3 years. On the flip-side, if puberty begins too late, it

could also indicate other underlying issues that could be of concern and need addressing. The check up is also the best time to ask your doctor questions about everyday parenting and what to expect before the next visit in regard to your child’s development. If you have concerns, or if your child is struggling in school, this is a good time to bring it up. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends annual checkups between the ages of 2 and 18, with more frequent visits before a child turns 2. So when it’s time to think about that next birthday, add a wellness visit with your child’s pediatrician to the to-do list. In the meantime, enjoy the party! 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

Fifth Grade Honors Day at Allentown Elementary

Fifth grade students at Allentown Elementary were recognized during the Honors Day Program. Recognition was given to students in the following categories: Honor Roll, National Honor Society, Perfect Attendance, Choir, Honor Choir, Highest GPA per class, Student Council Representatives, Citizenship, Broadcasting Team, Talent Show Winner, AR Goal Getters, GATOR Kids, Technology Team and Library Assistants.

Dickson Elementary Special Olympians

Congratulations to the following E.R. Dickson Elementary students for participating at the 2017 – 2018 Special Olympics! Jully Ngo – 1st Place in the 50 meter run; Cody Norwood – 5th place in the 50 meter run; Naya Rivera – 2nd place in the 50 meter run; Thea Leseur – 5th place in the 50 meter run; Ava Wingard – 1st place in the 50 meter run; Aza Wagner – 2nd place in the 50 meter run; Madison Thompson – 1st place in the 50 meter run.

Bright Beginnings Academy 1st Annual Golf Tournament

BBA is pleased to announce that its’ 1st annual Golf Tournament will be held on Friday, August 3, at Springhill College Golf Course. Registration begins at 7:00 AM. Tee off is at 8:00 AM. The entry fee is $100 per person. This event is open to anyone. The tournament is a Four-Person Scramble. Prizes will be awarded for 1st place, 2nd place, 3rd place, longest drive, and closest to the pin. There will be door prizes too! For more information please contact: Gina Englund (251) 525-9105 or Jill Higgins (251) 802-6414.

McGill-Toolen Students Earn Scholarships from Distinguished Young Women Competition

3 McGill-Toolen students recently participated in the Distinguished Young Women of Mobile County Program: Madeleine Greenwood, Carson Kuhr and Caroline McGrath. All three competed in the preliminary program and made it as a Top 8 Finalist. All three earned several category awards and cash scholarships that total just under $200,000! Madeleine Greenwood was selected at the 1st runner up and Caroline McGrath was 2nd runner up.

UMS-Wright Students Collaborate in Support of Our Veterans

In May our 5th grade and K4 students collaborated for a service day on campus with the focus on our veterans. The students created the American Flag artwork pictured here as a thank you gift to the Veterans Recovery Resources here in Mobile. The piece will be displayed in the lobby of their outreach center when it opens in the very near future. This presentation kicks off UMSWright’s connection with this great organization as the students will work to serve and honor our veterans. Pictured here are the K4 classes, 5th grade class officers, and representatives from Veterans Recovery Resources John Kilpatrick, Founder & Executive Director, and Joshua Moore.

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Afternoon Tea Party at Old Shell Road of Learning is a Piece of Tea Cake

With all eyes on the royal wedding, Old Shell Road took the opportunity to engage students in learning about the English culture. Ms. Beasley, the art teacher, had a particular interest in the wedding because she shared the Northwestern experience with the now Duchess of Sussex. Ms. Beasley attended Northwestern in the same time period as Meaghann Markle. This was a collaboration with the P.A.C.E. teacher, Cydney Halliday and fine arts teacher, Monica J. Beasley. Students had to research the uniqueness and identity of the English culture in order to plan their wardrobe for the tea party. We created the quintessential English afternoon tea, complete with handmade fascinators (also known as hats on this side of the pond), pearls, gloves, and treats to enjoy. This is just a snippet of the creative learning experience that students participate in at Old Shell Road School of Creative and Performing Arts. Royal Clothiers donated the materials for the fascinators.

Clark-Shaw 8th Graders Place in Top 12 for National French Exam

Six eighth-graders from Clark-Shaw School of Math and Science placed in the top 12 nationally of all middle-schoolers taking the National French Exam. The students are: Blaikney Waldrop, who placed No. 4 in the nation; Samantha Singleton (No. 5); Azi Singthong (No. 9); Lily Holden (No. 10); Brian Martir and Jackson Faggard (No. 11). All six of these students also placed in the top 10 in the state of Alabama. They are among a group of eighth-graders at Clark-Shaw who are taking French I Honors for high school credit. The National French Exam, sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of French, was taken by thousands of students across the country in February and March of this year.

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Autauga County Schools

Summer Feeding Program Provides No-Cost Meals for Area Youth

The Mobile County Public Schools Child Nutrition Departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s summer feeding program returns this summer at sites around the county, offering meals at no cost for young people ages 18 and under. The program began June 4 and continues through July 19. Lunch will be served Monday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with the exception of July 4. Breakfast will also be available at select sites from 7:30 to 8:05 a.m., Monday through Thursday. All meals must be eaten on site â&#x20AC;&#x201D; no carry-outs. Lunch and breakfast will be served from June 4 through July 19 at Augusta Evans and Leinkauf Elementary. Lunch only will be available from June 4 through July 19 at Robbins and Spencer-Westlawn elementary schools and Baker, Blount, LeFlore and Vigor high schools. Lunch and breakfast will be offered on an abbreviated schedule from June 4 through June 19 at Craighead and Gilliard elementary schools and Pillans Middle, and from June 11 through July 19 at Hankins and Lott Middle and Kate Shepard Elementary. The SuperFood Express will also be back this year, with buses bringing meals to non-school sites including: Highpoint Park in Eight Mile, Freewater Baptist Church in Irvington, Rickarby Park in Mobile and William Clark Recreational Center in Prichard.

Covenant Christian School Ukulele Group Performs for Kindergartners

The Music Department at Covenant Christian School presented a special May concert, with their ukulele group, "The Malihinis". The Malihinis performed a wide variety of familiar songs for their K5 student audience, along with some traditional Hawaiian tunes. From left to right: Cole Venatta, Gauge Kirkland, Gavin Leege, Luke Knapp, Sully Blakeney, and Macy Giattina.

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Mary G. Montgomery Teacher of the Year Added to The Giving Tree Congratulations to Mary G. Montgomery/MCPSS Teacher of the Year Laurin Tew for being added to The Giving Tree. Her hard work and dedication to her students make her a well-deserving recipient of this honor. Photo courtesy of MCPSS Facebook page.

E. R. Dickson Student Ranks in State Technology Fair

Congratulations to Josiah Cazalas, 5th grade student from E. R. Dickson Elementary! Josiah competed in the 2018 ACTE State Technology Fair in April. He placed 3rd in Animation for his technology project! Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

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Davidson Students Earn National Merit Scholarships

Three graduating seniors from Davidson High School earned National Merit Scholarships. Rohan Badve (right) was one of 2,500 students nationally to win a $2,500 National Merit Scholarship. He has been accepted in the Early Admissions Program to the University of South Alabama College of Medicine, where he plans to study radiology. Badve, a member of Davidson’s Hi-Q and RobotEx teams, also has been working with Dr. Ajay Singh at USA’s Mitchell Cancer Institute for the past three years, researching how natural oils such as canola or olive oil can protect skin cells against UV damage. Thomas Browning and Sophie Davis are among about 3,500 students nationwide who won collegesponsored National Merit Scholarships worth between $500 and $2,000. Browning’s scholarship is from Clemson University, where he plans to study mechanical engineering and business administration. Davis got her scholarship from the University of North Texas, where she will study biology and music.

McGill-Toolen Catholic Class of 2018 offered $19 Million in Scholarships

Congratulations to the following students who were recognized at our Senior Awards Ceremony: Hutchins Blackwell, Paul Joseph Bueche Service to God and Country Award; Patrick Spafford, Salutatorian; Dylan Campbell, Valedictorian; Ronnie Piccini, McGill Award; Elizabeth Baldwin, Toolen Award; Michelle Roca and Marvin Collins, Ideal Graduate. Front Row: Brooks Green and Grace Jensen, Student Athletes; Mattie Naman and Jack Muscat, Kaitln M. Overstreet School Spirit Award; Isabel Berrios and Miles Wentworth, Distinguished Service Award.

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St. Dominic Students Receive Optimist Club Citizenship Award

St. Dominic Catholic School students Holly Trinh and Noah Huynh were recently awarded the Midtown Optimist Club Friends of Youth Junior Citizenship award. The award is presented to Grade 5 students who exhibit outstanding citizenship and service.

Autauga County Schools

Faith Academy Class of 2018

The 2018 graduating class of Faith Academy had 114 graduates. There were 44 students in the class with a 4.0 GPA or higher on a weighted scale. The scholarship totals for the class of 2018 were over $4.4 million dollars with seventy students being offered scholarships. Congratulations Faith Class of 2018!

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UMS-Wright Celebrates Lower School Excellence in Reading

In May, UMS-Wright held a special assembly to recognize the many accomplishments of the Lower School students who together read 20,277 books and 160,372,255 words this school year! At the top of the list were those students in grades 2nd â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4th who read 1,000,000 words or more during the 2017-18 school year earning the coveted Millionaire Award. After the assembly, these students were able to celebrate with a fun outing to Altitude with Lower School Librarian Janna Corley. Kudos to the Millionaires pictured here: Marilyn Grace Cook, Joshua Dean, Amna Qasim, Mattie Cole, Walt Hamil, Emie Deas, Duffie Skidmore, Jacob Cole, Jonathan Fantoni, Finley Gartman, Mallory Helms, Alexander Bridges, Joshua Cole, Emerson Faulkner, Ellie Gartman, Lily Howell, Caroline Cole, Killian Delaney, Elizabeth Denson, Blair Rodning, Mariam Shakora, Cooper Buchman, Alex Gamble, Allen Moore, Kingston Phan, Bennett Roe, Luke Romano, Adam Shumer, Camille Walton, Coleman Callaway, Gavin Conrad, Parker Crabtree, Lilly Cunningham, Hayes Howard, Emily Lockhart, Kate Mattei, Trey Strom, Hannah Touchton, Alaina Keene, Evelyn Baird, Mae Mae Druhan, Emma Marmande, Will Seifert, Jillian Vickers, and Elizabeth Warren.

St. Ignatius Freshmen Awarded Scholarships

St. Ignatius incoming Freshmen were awarded seven scholarships at the McGill-Toolen Scholarship banquet in May. Four of these scholarships are part of the new McGill-Toolen St. Augustine scholarship program. Pictured with principal Tori Miller are Bennet Katz, Taylor Shirah, Eldon Porter, Hayden Ward, Lindon Hutchisson, Wesley Clarke. Not pictured is Morgan O'Neill.

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Autauga County Schools Corpus Christi Catholic School Graduates Honored at Graduation Mass

Congratulations to the Corpus Christi Catholic School Class of 2018! Faculty, staff, family, and friends honored the students and celebrated their achievements at a graduation Mass that took place on May 23. Three special awards were given out during the Mass: Spirit of CCS Award - the recipients of this award epitomize what means to have school spirit. They are positive role models for their classmates and all of our students. Madison Langham & Brandon McKee, pictured top and bottom left. Citizenship Award - the recipients of this award have taken the extra step of being involved in their school community. They are examples of what it means to be a citizen, loyal, active and supportive of their community. Isabela Flores & Evan McNally, pictured top and bottom middle photos. Light of Christ Award - this award is given to students who are an example of compassion, tolerance, and acceptance in our school community. They share the light of Christ with everyone they meet. Nina Poiroux & Patrick Wentworth, pictured top and bottom right photos.

Prichard Prep Kindergarten Graduation

PPS held the Kindergarten graduation ceremony to celebrate the growth and learning of these precious students. They have worked hard this year and are so excited about promoting to 1st grade next year. Thank you also to Mr. Wallace for the wonderful performance of "One Small Voice" and "First Grade," to the tune of "New York, New York!" Thank you to the PTO for the wonderful refreshments!

St. Paul’s Girls Outdoor Track Wins 5a State Championship

Our varsity girl’s spring track & field season began where our indoor track season left off following our 4A-5A state team championship and continuing to be strong throughout by ending in early May with yet another state title. In what well may be our last appearance as a 5A program in Alabama following 18 years of competing in that classification, the Lady Saints won our 25th all-time team championship and our 11th one in the past 14 years with team runners-up finishes the other 3 years! This year’s convincing win by a 98-52 count over runner-up Arab and 35 scoring schools featured a 55-point last day insuring the title highlighted by 4 girls who combined for 86 ¾ points and 9 of our 15 competing girls scoring in the meet. Freshman Olivia Beard led our scorers with 26 points followed by sophomore Isabel Valenzuela with 23 ½, senior Emily Burrowes with 22 and sophomore Katherine Rush with 15 ¼, all scoring in 4 separate events! Our lone individual state champion was Olivia in the high jump and our girls 4X800M relay team also won for the 5th consecutive time at state (indoor and outdoor) with a team composed of freshman Sarah Strickland and sophomores Mary Howard Singleton, Katherine and Isabel. Special thanks go to our coaching staff and team parents as well as to our departing seniors Emily Burrowes and Callie Radcliff, both multi-state champions and significant contributors to our championship teams for the past 5 years! Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

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CHCA Honors Class of 2018

The graduation ceremony for the Cottage Hill Christian Academy Class of 2018 was held at Cottage Hill Baptist Church on May 25.The commencement address was delivered by Mrs. Mary Ann Lang, former Assistant Principal and Counselor at Cottage Hill Christian Academy. The CHCA Class of 2018 has been awarded over $4.4 million in meritbased scholarships. We are excited to see what God has planned for the CHCA Class of 2018.

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St. Mary Catholic Teams with McGill-Toolen for Science Exploration!

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St. Mary Catholic's Dr. Gia Johnson and McGill-Toolen's Dr. Lisa Griffin teamed up in April for science fun and learning! St. Mary 6th graders took a tour of the geologic timeline constructed by McT students in their fossil lab. The students in this McGill-Toolen Earth and Space Class partnered with St. Mary Students in the learning process with hands-on experiments.

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Autauga County Schools

First Graders at Mobile Christian Portray Famous Americans

Each year, the red carpet is rolled out for Mobile Christian School's first graders as they present “An Evening with Famous Americans.” Students wear period costumes, memorize speeches, and portray everyone from Ben Franklin to Mamie Eisenhower. When asked what he liked about being in this program, John McGilberry said, "I liked having all my family there to see me talk and dress up as Abraham Lincoln. I enjoyed the cake and punch afterwards too! I learned that Abraham Lincoln loved to read just like me. He didn’t mind walking several miles if it meant he could borrow a book.” Students agreed that this was one of the best nights of school so far!

St. Paul’s Students Chosen for Aisa All-State Academic Team Congratulations to Leah D. Brown and Mary Stirling Brown for being selected to the AISA All-State Academic Team! This award is designated to the top 25 students, selected based on their numerical average and their ACT score, combined. They will receive a medallion and special recognition through the Alabama Independent School Association.

Color Guard Memorial Scholarship Presented to Davidson Student

Jamie Newsome was presented with the very first Stephanie H. Cartagena Scholarship at the Davidson Band Banquet. The scholarship is in honor of former Warrior color guard member Stephanie Cartagena. Stephanie went on to perform in the University of Alabama's Million Dollar Band Color Guard and fought a brave battle against brain cancer. The scholarship will be awarded each year to a senior in the band or color guard who has been accepted into the band of the university they attend.

Davidson Dancers Host Broadway Performer

Dancers at Davidson had the honor of taking class with Ryan Johnson! Ryan danced on Broadway & toured with STOMP!, was in Broadway's After Midnight, Step Afrikka, and Cirque du Soleil's Beatles Love in Vegas.

He Knows My Name

Join us for three “He Knows My Name” services, July 19-21, filled with dances, dramas, games, and puppets. This is a family event and we invite all to come! Covenant Church will be hosting a Summer Bash to follow Saturday’s kids’ revival service! Saturday’s Summer Bash will include free food, inflatables, and water gun battles. The best part? It’s FREE! Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

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St. Paul’s Boys Golf Team Wins 5a State Championship

2018 was a great year for Saint’s Golf. There was much anticipation surrounding the team as Will McFadden, Kyle Cornelius, Matthew Hunt, Blake Bahos and Bill Johnson all returned from last year’s State Championship. Week after week the team battled against the state’s premiere programs and consistently showed that they were among the very best. Over the course of the season the Saints beat the 3a, 4a, and 6a State Champions along with all of their gulf coast competitors. Will McFadden also had a banner year making the All-Tournament Team at The Fairhope Invitational, Bradley Johnson Memorial., and West AL Classic while also winning the Sportsmanship Award at the David Miller Invitational. The low rounds for the year were Will McFadden 67, Kyle Cornelius 68, Blake Bahos 72, Matthew Hunt 74 and Bill Johnson with a 75. The team was also excited as they watched both Will McFadden and Kyle Cornelius sign NCAA Division 1 Golf Scholarships. As the regular season came to a close the Saints saved their best golf for when it mattered most. The post season was kicked off with a sectional team victory that saw Will McFadden take home the medalist honors. The following week the team won again at the Sub-state tournament in Dothan, Alabama. The season ended at the State Tournament at The Shoals Golf Club in Muscle Shoals AL. For the third week in a row, the Saints won by a healthy margin giving second year coach Zac Lambrecht his second State Championship and the school its 12th.

Prichard Prep Ballet Recital

Prichard Preparatory School is pleased to share about the 2nd Annual Ballet Recital and would like to thank Missy Jones and her daughter, Sarah, for again working with our young ladies to help them develop poise and grace. The result of their dedication was on exhibition during the recital, which included performances of ballet and tap routines. PA Girl & Dog Ad.qxp_Layout 1 6/18/18 1:13 PM Page 1

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Autauga County Schools

Glow-in-the-Dark Fun

Students meeting their Accelerated Reader (AR) Goal for the 2017-18 school year were rewarded with a Glow-in-the-Dark Party at Allentown Elementary School. Students were provided with glow necklaces and bracelets for the event and enjoyed eating snacks and dancing to fun musical selections. Mrs. Jennifer Phillips, Media Specialist, hosted the event with the help of Library Aide, Mrs. Tammie Merritt, the awesome ladies of Allentownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s PTO and parent volunteers.

May Crowning at St. Dominic Catholic School

As May is the month dedicated to Mary, our Blessed Mother, St. Dominic Catholic School first communicants have the privilege of leading the May Crowning. Here Iriel Espinosa (center) prepares to crown Mary as Audrey Tison (right) and Isabella Holland (left) lay flowers at her feet.

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Eighth Grade Awards at Little Flower Catholic School

Abby Grosvenor received the Sisters of St. Joseph Award and Bruce Davis received the Father Jimmy Byrnes Award at the Eighth Grade Award Ceremony at Little Flower Catholic School. These graduating students were

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at the Mobile Ballet!

Summer is an excellent time to begin ballet & jazz or to enhance your skills!

OPEN CLASSES July 2 – August 16

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chosen for these awards because of their spirit of leadership, ready service, and kindness to others. The Father Jimmy Byrnes Award was presented by the Knights of Columbus, Council #13367, and the Sisters of St. Joseph Award was presented by the K of C Ladies Auxiliary. Abby and Bruce look forward to becoming Yellow Jackets as they enter McGill-Toolen Catholic High in the fall.

Regional School Participates in Every Kid Healthy Week

Coach Kim Reusser, Adapted Physical Education Teacher, received a grant through the Action for Healthy Kids Organization to host an event for Every Kid Healthy Week. On May 11th students participated in a breakfast smoothie event. Students were encouraged to see, sign, smell, and taste various fruit smoothie combinations. Favorites were watermelon, blueberry-grape, and strawberry-banana. Students in grades Pre-K through Fifth grade participated in the event.

MOBILE STUDIO DAY | CLASS TIME Monday • Ballet 4:30-6:00 p.m. Wednesday • Ballet 4:30-6:00 p.m. Thursday • Ballet 4:30-6:00 p.m.

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251-342-2241 or visit mobileballet.org

EASTERN SHORE STUDIO DAY | CLASS TIME Tuesday • Ballet 5:30-7:00 p.m. Wednesday • Pilates/Yoga/Conditioning 4:30-5:30 p.m. Thursday • Ballet 4:30-6:00 p.m. • No classes July 4th • Age 11 years old and up, placement is at the discretion of the faculty • $15/class or $120 for 10 classes

FAIRY PRINCESS CAMP

July 16 – 20 | Ages 3 - 5 LET’S DANCE CAMP

July 9 – 13 | Ages 6 – 8

Katia Garza, Artistic Director & School Director Zoe Lombard-Todd, School Director, Eastern Shore WWW.MOBILEBALLET.ORG • 4351 DOWNTOWNER LOOP NORTH

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St. Ignatius Lifesaver Ambassadors

Autauga County Schools

St. Ignatius is proud to announce the new Lifesaver ambassadors for 2018-2019. These incoming 8th grade students will represent St. Ignatius during both 40 Days for Life campaigns next year. Pictured are Stephen Beatty, Lucy LaCour, Anna Adams, Meg Nettles, Sophia Tolleson, Kate Wilber and Colin Cromwell.

E.R. Dickson Named BCBS of Alabama Be Healthy School

E.R. Dickson Elementary in Mobile has been selected as a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Be Healthy School and will be awarded a grant in the amount of $10,000 to be used for classroom activities promoting healthy lifestyles. “Healthy bodies create healthy minds,” E.R. Dickson Principal Katryna Kinn said. “We want to keep our students moving, physically and mentally.” Fifty percent of the grant will be awarded at the beginning of the 2018-2019 school year, along with a banner recognizing E.R. Dickson as a Be Healthy School Grant recipient. The remaining 50 percent will be awarded in January 2019 after documented progress has been made towards the goals stated in the grant application. At the end of the school year, Blue Cross will present each student with a token of appreciation for their commitment to live a healthy lifestyle.

Davidson Students Achieve Perfect ACT Scores

Two Davidson students, Isabel Bella and Joseph Stauter, achieved a perfect score on the ACT and were recently recognized by the Mobile City Council. Only 0.136% of students who take the ACT score a perfect 36 out of 36. This makes the second year in a row that a Davidson student has achieved a perfect score on this standardized test, bringing the total to three perfect scores in just two years.

Corpus Christi Catholic School Starts New “Cougar Walk” Tradition

Corpus Christi Catholic School started a new tradition called "The Cougar Walk." The school invited former students who graduated from high school this year to return to CCS to "walk the halls" in celebration of their accomplishments! It was an opportunity for the current CCS students, faculty and staff to wish the graduating seniors success in all of their future endeavors. It was a joy to see these young adults as they finished one chapter of life and began to prepare for the next.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

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Mobile County Public Schools Film Festival

Mobile County Public Schools’ Division of Instructional Technology recently held its annual Film Festival, recognizing students for their innovative video productions in a range of categories. NBC 15’s Darwin Singleton hosted the event. The Best in Show winners were “Be Kind” by Collier Elementary; “What is Autism?” by Causey Middle; “Why ask Why?” by Vigor High School; “Kindergarten High” by Baker for a teacher production; and “My School” by Meadowlake Elementary for a teacher/student collaboration. Here’s a list of the other winners: Art Contest Winner: Rebecca Thompson, 12th grade – Mary G. Montgomery; Comedy Category: ES: String Cheese – Mary B. Austin; MS: Expectations vs Reality – Causey; HS: The Baker Bachelor – Baker; Teacher: Kindergarten High – Baker; Teacher-Student Collaboration: What if Cat in the Hat Came to Our Classroom – Griggs; Commercial Category: ES: Keep the Ocean Clean – Tanner Williams; MS: Jack My Movie 26 – Phillips; HS: Love Spritz – Baker; Teacher: Pastor Cory’s Invite – Vigor; Teacher-Student Collaboration: Calametti and Mills Farm – Griggs; Documentary Category: ES: Be King – Collier; MS: What is Autism? – Causey; HS: Second Amendment – Baker; Teacher: My ACT Story Part 2 – Vigor; Teacher-Student Collaboration: Welcome to Our Community – Dixon; Drama Category: ES: You’d Better Brush Your Teeth – Mary B. Austin; MS: Crime & Consequences – Causey; HS: Why Ask Why – Vigor; Teacher: Snooze – Baker; Teacher-Student Collaboration: Attendance Matters – Gilliard; Howto Category: ES: How to Make Slime-Dawes – Dawes; MS: Make Up Tutorial – Causey; HS: MGM Senior Interview Tips How-To – MGM; Teacher: How to Play Disc Golf – Baker; Teacher-Student Collaboration: Campbell’s Crew Cares for Crawfish – Griggs; Music Category: ES: Ms. Washington’s Black History Month Video – Mary B. Austin; MS: Drain Your Brain – Phillips; HS: A Change in Dance – Baker; Teacher: #IceIceMobile School Closing Rap Announcement – Mary B. Austin; Teacher-Student Collaboration: My School – Meadowlake; News Category: ES: 3-12-18 Morning Buzz News – Mary B. Austin; MS: Halloween Pirates Unplugged – Phillips; HS: MGM Academy Showcase News – MGM; Teacher: Dodge Eagle Cast 18 – Dodge; Teacher-Student Collaboration: Mrs. Beck’s Leprechaun – Mary B. Austin.

Faith Academy Teachers of the Year

Faith Academy is blessed with amazing faculty and staff. These gifted women are the 2017-18 Faith Academy teachers of the year. Pictured left to right: Mrs. Tiffany Beason (High School), Mrs. Claire Elliott (Middle School), Mrs. Rebecca Barlow and Mrs. Terri Strickland (Primary) and Mrs. Jennifer Boleman (Elementary).

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Autauga County Schools

UMS-Wright Band Competes at Alabama Bandmastersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association Festival

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On Saturday, May 5, eight middle school and three upper school UMS-Wright band students performed at the Alabama Bandmastersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association Solo and Ensemble Festival. Three solos and four ensembles received Superior ratings and one ensemble received an Excellent rating! Congratulations to these talented students: Isabelle Hooks (8th grade) - Solo, Superior; Justin Littlefield (9th grade) - Solo, Superior; Will Cunningham (9th grade) - Solo, Superior; Dakota Mellick (10th grade) Solo, Superior; Caroline Block and Ellie Moore (8th grade) - Ensemble, Superior; Caroline Block, Reagan Jokerst, and Ellie Moore (8th grade) - Ensemble, Superior; Daniel Harvey, Trent Sanspree, and Niko Vrettos (8th grade) - Ensemble, Excellent; Dakota Mellick and Jordan Moore (10th grade) - Ensemble, Superior.

Covenant Christian School Valedictorian

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Congratulations, Rebecca H., on being awarded Valedictorian for the CCS Class of 2018! From Kindergarten through 8th grade, we are so proud of you and all of your hard work!

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Corpus Christi Catholic Teacher of the Year

Congratulations to the Corpus Christi Catholic School Teacher of the Year - Mrs. Penny Mansfield! Mrs. Mansfield has been at Corpus Christi school since 2005. She previously taught at Our Lady of Lourdes School. She is the Director of the school's Media Center and works with students in all grades. She has a passion for reading and shares that passion with the student body! There is always something fun going on in the library because Mrs. Mansfield is there and because she makes READING FUN!

CHCA Senior Named to 1st Team All State

Special congratulations to Cottage Hill Christian Academy senior Jasmine Vo for her accomplishments on the pitch for CHCA Soccer this spring. Jasmine scored 26 goals and tallied 15 assists for the Warriors in 14 matches this spring. She missed the last 7 matches of the season due to a season ending injury. Jasmine was named to the 1A-3A All County Soccer Team and to the AHSAA 1A-3A First Team AllState which is an outstanding accomplishment.

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Autauga County Schools

Mobile Christian School Baseball Team Wins State Championship

Congratulations to the Mobile Christian Leopards Baseball Team for their Class 3A State Championship win over Lauderdale County. The Leopards now have three state championships to their credit in the last four years – winning in 2015 and 2016 as well. We could not be more proud of this team and their coaches!

St. Mary Catholic Chicken Talk!

St. Mary Catholic Middle School science classes welcomed 4-H Teacher Sarah Butterworth and a few feathered friends to the science lab last month! Sarah talked chicken with the students, explaining their importance and qualities, and allowed our students to interact with them. St. Mary's Dr. Gia Johnson coordinated this 4-H Science Demonstration.

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

Allentown Elementary School May GATOR Kids

Kindergarten – 2nd Grade Front Row: Caleb Davis, Maryam Lozoya-Camacho, Jennifer Lopez, Brantley Bond, Zoey Quesenberry, Reagan McNeely. Middle Row: Lillian Williams, Joseph Maldonado, Carly Wilkinson, Tristan Simonson, Myles Jones, Reese Smith, Maggie Boggs. Back Row: Jayden Coleman, Emilyn Cook, Aiden Griffen, Braden Robinson, Samuel Ellis, Brice St. Pierre. Third – Fifth Grade Front Row: Kyle Averette, Braxton Carlisle, Elizabeth Wolf, Maria Francisco, Brooklyn Courchesne, Victoria Howell. Middle Row: Ryan Clark, Jaylin Roberts, Gracie Hope Wilson, Xavier Rodgers, Sophia Perez, Gracie Lawson. Back Row: Anna Grace Coleman, Alissa Reid, Olivia Knight, Jacie Robertson, Riley Duke, Malorie Hacker.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

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Prichard Prep 2018 Field Day

Field Day at Prichard Prep was another huge success. The day started with the Balloon Smash, Sack Race, Egg on a Spoon, Dizzy Bat and a Plunger Relay. The favorite event was the Soda Bottle/Cup Water Relay because the teachers held soda bottles on their heads and the students filled them with water from cups! Some water actually made its way to the bottle, but most was spilled on the teachers, which was probably on purpose! The events ended with a Jump Rope Relay and Tug-A-War! The highlight of the day was two different Bounce Houses!

Allentown’s National Elementary Honor Society Inductees

Allentown Elementary inducted new members of their National Elementary Honor Society that will serve for the next school year. Students were chosen based on the standards put forth by the NEHS. Eleven students were chosen for this distinguished recognition. Pictured during their induction ceremony are: Front Row – Mrs. Tracie Robinson, ENHS Sponsor, Karis Singleterry, Brayden Turner, Gracie Hope Wilson, Mrs. Ashtiny Roberts, Allentown Principal; Middle Row – Jeremy Menhennett, Brady Dobs, Madeline Hartley, Kaylie Nguyen; Back Row – Savannah Taylor, Cooper Crenshaw, Kensley Dunagan, Mallorey Davis.

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Autauga County Schools

Faith Academy Baseball Team Wins State Title

Faith Academy Rams Baseball team brought home the 2018 5A state title. This was the first state title since the school joined the AHSAA. Congratulations coaches and players on an awesome season! #Faithstrong We are family. We are Faith!

Cottage Hill Christian Academy’s Million Word Readers

Cottage Hill Christian Academy’s Million Word Reading Warriors celebrated with an ice cream sundae party on May 21. Each year students in grades K5-8 participate in a reading program to increase student comprehension and fluency. Students who read 1,000,000 words or more become members of the Reading Warriors Million Word Club. We are proud of this year’s members: Peter Olsen, Ruby Steedley, Christopher Ho, Emily Newton, Ashlyn Newton, Marley Williams, Rebecca Steedley, Ashley Enfinger, Emily Burt, Elizabeth Olsen, Isabel Oldshue, Nixon Cartee, Laurel Quave, Davis Tharp, Riley Chason and Kathryn Shanks. Many of the members read over two million words with Peter Olsen reading over six million words this year. Way to go, Reading Warriors!

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Jump Rope for Heart at Covenant Christian

During the past Jump Rope for Heart event, Covenant Christian School raised over $8,700 for the American Heart Association, which is double last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s total! Warner R, one of our K5 students, was the top raiser at CCS and in the entire state of Alabama with a total of $1,650! Way to go Warner!

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Spanish Classes at Little Flower Catholic School Students at Little Flower Catholic School will have the privilege of learning Spanish from Mrs. Sonya Garcia in the fall. Being able to speak the words of the language is only a part of the learning process for these students. Songs, food, customs, and word recognition are all brought to the classroom to enhance the experience of learning Spanish at Little Flower. Mrs. Garcia is spending her summer earning her masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree at Boston College.

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Giving Your Child a Love for Books in a Screen-Filled World

the 200th time. But it’s those cherished favorites that will always comfort and entertain. (If we go for a third book, Mommy gets to pick. Otherwise we’d never rotate our library.) Find a quiet, special space. We used to read in the rocker next to her crib, but on those nights she didn’t want to go to bed, she put up a fight just to enter her room. Then we used to read on the couch, but there are inevitably distractions -- the basketball game is on, the dog is barking at the neighbors, there’s music on the stereo. So I created our own special reading space on the bed in the guest room. It’s stocked with pillows and blankets, and I light some candles and lay out the book selections on the bed with us. It’s our insta-special reading spot! (It sure doesn’t take much with a toddler.) You can do this anywhere you have enough room for two.

When I opened the gates to screen time for my 2-year-old daughter, I was planning to limit it to airplanes and sick days. But with TV and tablets came a whole new colorful world that hooked my tot instantly, and her new word -- “cartoons!” -- became a constant refrain. Almost overnight, her obsession with books and our sweet ritual of reading became a distant memory to her little toddler brain. Screens offered something much more exciting. I was worried. For me, books are more than fun and educational. They’re a family tradition. My own lifelong passion for reading was sparked by my mother’s nightly read-aloud sessions with me and my sister. I want my kid to treasure that magical reading time as much as I did growing up, despite the irresistible pull of singing animals, animated princesses, and sweeping soundtracks. So I had to dig deep to come up with extra-special reading experiences to compete with all that sparkly screen entertainment. My hope is that these tips and tricks will cultivate positive and passionate literacy habits she’ll have the rest of her life.

Keep the selection fresh. Hit the library regularly, and check out stuff by their favorite authors or in their preferred genres. Libraries are key, since you never know what they’re going to like, and you don’t want to shell out bucks for books they won’t touch. Need recommendations? Check out some of Common Sense Media’s fave books for toddlers. Find print books with sensory experiences. You can load up your Kindle or tablet with digital books when traveling, but let them enjoy the tactile experience of turning pages and touching different textures. My kid loves books with an interactive element, such as flaps and dials or scratch-and-sniff spots. Her favorites include Mama’s Pajamas, which has an array of different fabrics, and Dance, which uses cardboard levers to make different animals dance. Keep ‘em all over. We keep a few books in the car and a stack by the potty, and she gets to take one to bed every night. It may be overkill, but it gives her an opportunity to connect with books at every step. Studies have even shown that having lots of books at home can give kids a big boost in school.

Make it a daily ritual. Every night, without fail, before my daughter heads to bed, we read at least two books together, usually more. On the nights she’s wound up and super resistant to sleep, this routine puts her in a mellow mood and helps her relax. By the time I turn the first page, she’s already heavylidded and sucking her thumb.

Resist the begging with clever excuses. When my kid gets really stuck on something and wants to do nothing but watch Frozen, I tell her Elsa and Anna are sleeping. She accepts that without question. A lifelong love of reading is a gift you can give to your kids that they will carry forever. One day she’ll thank me!

Let them pick. Your kid is bound to have favorite books, and you will inevitably groan inwardly (and probably outwardly) when she asks you to read The Very Hungry Caterpillar for Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

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Put On Your Sunscreen! • Use sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher! • Make sure your sunscreen has both UVA and UVB protection. • Apply sunscreen 20-30 minutes before going outside and remember to reapply after swimming or sweating. • Wear a hat with a wide brim to protect your face, head, ears and neck. • Wear sunglasses that are made to block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.

• Limit exposure to the sun during the hours of 10 am to 4 pm, when UV rays are most intense. • Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. • One person dies of melanoma every hour. • One blistering sunburn in childhood can double your chances of developing melanoma.

Alabama Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalition facebook.com/ALCompCancerCoalition

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The Race is On!

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

For every parent who’s experienced a child’s delighted cried of “Go Faster!”, the exhilarating nature of racing is familiar. Giving kids the ability to plot a course and navigate it at speed is an empowering form of play. Racing toy cars allows children to test themselves against courses and obstacles, to strive for performance goals or to enjoy competition with other racers. The following race car-themed items encourage kids to take control of their roadway, their speed and their destination with entertaining options from start to finish.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Magic Tracks Glowin-the-Dark Mega Set

Prextex Radio Control Racers

The Magic Tracks Mega Set features flexible track sections that bend and twist, letting small hands make creative connections with ease. Adding to the excitement, the tracks glow in the dark after light exposure. The two battery-powered race cars (included) are illuminated with bright LEDs so they also charge the tracks as they speed along. With a suspension bridge, two-way splitter, and ramps, the 18 feet of track pieces allows for versatile and evolving raceway planning. As flexible as the track itself, the Magic Tracks Mega Set fosters creative thinking and fine motor skills as young racers plan and produce their own new path to victory again and again.

Simple controls and sturdy construction are the hallmark of Prextex Radio Control Racers, making this set ideal for first-time remote operators. Complete with sound effects (sirens for the police car and revving engine for the racer) this pair of cars is road ready right out of the box. The cars get good traction on a variety of surfaces so kids can take the race to new and changing landscapes. The set includes two removable driver figures that expand the possibilities for pretend-play to accompany the racing/driving experience. Ideally designed for the small hands of young racers, this RC duo offers an easy and encouraging introduction to RC racing for the littlest drivers.

3-in-1 Launch and Go Raceway

My First RC Baja Buggy

Conforming to the changing demands of young race designers, the Smart Wheels 3-in-1 Launch and Go Raceway assembles into a trio of diverse experiences. Whether it’s set up as a dual raceway, a stunt track or a super run, this set uses gravity to launch the included race car down a changeable course of play. Connecting with strategically located SmartPoints, the race cars may also become sound enabled with music and fun phrases.This set can also be combined with compatible Smart Wheels and Smart Animals components from V-Tech. Using fewer components that reconfigure into more versatile structures, the Launch and Go Raceway supports mechanical exploration and fine motor skills in the younger set.

Designed with small hands in mind, the RC Baja Buggy is a soft, chunky vehicle that makes remote control driving simple to get a grip on. Shaped like a steering wheel, the easy-to-use controller lets drivers send the buggy racing forward, backward, or into a spin. Unlike many other RC cars, the Kid Galaxy Baja Buggy body is squeezably soft and ideal for taking corners without leaving damage on walls, furniture or ankles. Capable of running on smooth floors, concrete and low-pile carpeting My First RC Baja Buggy takes the lead in the race for RC-ready drivers.

(Prextex)

(Magic Tracks)

(Kid Galaxy)

(V-Tech)

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

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

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Your baby is about to celebrate her first birthday. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve probably been celebrating her development since birth in a baby book and snapping reams of photos along the way. After all, babies seem to change right before our eyes in their first year. But how will you record the exciting months and years ahead? Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

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Here are a few ways to capture moments, milestones and memories as your baby grows from toddler to teen. Say what?! Kids typically begin developing the ability to speak in two to three word sentences between 18 months and two years. Keep track of their quips, funny comments and profound observations in a quotes journal. A simple notebook will do the trick. Running around? Write down what they said on a scrap of paper. Note the date and their age and slip it into your notebook or your purse to record later.

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Dear Sugar. Ask friends and family to a write a letter to your child on her first birthday. Or write a letter a year sharing anecdotes and observations about your child’s development, achievements, disappointments and why you are proud of her. These letters make a precious gift for when your child turns 18.

Remember this?

Compile photos annually into a scrapbook or a digital photo book. Among the snapshots of day-to-day outings, family vacations and birthday parties, include a page dedicated to highlighting your child’s accomplishments for that year. For example: learned to ride a bike, started kindergarten, learned to swim, lost first tooth, first home run, etc.

Talk to me. While you’ll probably video your child in action throughout childhood, take a few minutes each year to do a short interview once they start talking. Ask questions like, “What is your favorite food?” “What do you want to be when you grow up?” “What is your favorite thing to do?” “Who are your buddies right now?”

A year in pictures. Have you ever seen a compilation of photos of a child taken everyday in the same location for a year? It’s fascinating to watch 37

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a child grow up in a photo time lapse. Try the apps “Photo 365” or “Everyday app”.

Keep it simple. Throughout the year, collect mementos in a manila folder. Include projects, letters, report cards, notes from teachers, pictures and letters by your child, medical records and school photos. At the end of each calendar year, school year or birthday, go through the file. Pick out the items you want to keep. Write the year on the folder tab and stash it in a bin designated for your child.

Try this on for size. Take an annual photo of your child in an oversized t-shirt with the date of their high school graduation. She’ll be swimming in it for the first photo, but by graduation she will have grown into it.

Patchwork of memories. Every child has t-shirts they love and wear over and over again. Over the years,

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

they’ll also collect shirts of sporting events, favorite teams, camps, organizations and other activities that they’re involved in. Hang onto those items and have a quilt made out of the shirts to give them when they graduate from high school or college.

Measure up. Many of us use a wall in the house to pencil in our kids’ height over the years. But what if you have to move or you want to repaint? A variety of creative wall-hanging growth charts are available on the market or you could DIY. Make a large wall measuring stick out of a 1’ x 6’ x 6’ wood board (instructions for the DIY Growth Ruler are available at www.crazylifewithlittles.com). Check out Pinterest for other crafty designs and instructions. Hand, hand, finger, thumb. Beginning with your child’s first birthday, make wall art out of his growing handprints or footprints. Paint an eightinch square canvas with acrylic paint.

Once the background paint dries, use a contrasting color and paint your child’s hand with a foam brush. Then guide his hand to stamp it on the canvas. Use a paint pen to write the age of your child below the hand print. Voila! You have the first of a series of annual hand prints. For more information about this project titled “yearly handprint canvas”, check out mamapapabubba.com.

Tell me a story. Record funny, harrowing and exciting stories throughout parenthood. Keep them in a file called “family stories” on your computer. Don’t forget to include your child’s birth story. Either record the anecdotes and stories in an audio file or write them out. You’ll love pulling up and sharing these stories with your kids as they get older-and they’ll love hearing them! MBP Freelance writer Christa Melnyk Hines is the mom of two growing boys. She loves to collect their wise and funny comments in a quotes journal. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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A Page in a Book Books for Busy Bees Bustling our kids away from the company of bees, it’s hard to tell who’s busier - us or the bees. Armed with a sting for self-defense, it’s no wonder that these common visitors can evoke a fight or flight response in humans. But there’s more to the bee than its buzz or sting. Bees and their fuzzy bodies distribute pollen as they work, ensuring that plants propagate and our environment thrives. While caution is healthy around bees, children can also learn important lessons about the value of these busy bugs through education. The following titles feature bees in the lead, fostering a friendly introduction to these hard-working heroes of a healthy planet.

Bee and Me

by Alison Jay (Candlewick Press) When a bee bumbles through the window of her room, a young city girl instinctively flees from the intruder. Returning with a swatter and prepared to take action, the girl’s closer inspection reveals a weak and frightened insect lost in a strange environment. Catching the bee in a glass, she begins reading about bees to determine what he needs to thrive. Bee and Me takes on a dream-like quality as the bee and the girl get acquainted and together pursue a mission to keep him alive. Referencing the need for natural spaces among growing urban centers, this wordless title speaks volumes about the relationship between people, plants and the bees who keep our ecosystem in balance.

Bee-wigged

by Cece Bell (Candlewick) Jerry is a very big bee who loves people. But people don’t love him. The first sight of Jerry sends people running, afraid of a sting or alarmed by his buzz. When Jerry discovers a wig on the ground, the simple act of placing it on his head turns his fortunes around. Handsomely wigged, Jerry quickly attracts and army of friends and fans. Just as he’s finally achieved acceptance among people, an errant gust of wind ruins Jerry’s disguise and sends everyone fleeing once again. But the wig, who’s been learning about Jerry during their time together, comes to the defense of his misunderstood friend, revealing Jerry’s best qualities to the frightened public. Be-wigged is a charming testament to the value of getting to know someone before making hasty judgements.

Bizzy Mizz Lizzie

by David Shannon (Blue Sky Press / Scholastic) Rushing from one activity to another, Lizzie is focused on doing everything she can to be the best bee of all. From music, art, and dance classes to Bee League and Honey Scouts, the only bee who’s busier is Lizzie’s mom who shuttles her through her hectic days. When the true test of best comes in the form of a spelling bee (naturally), Lizzie doubles down on her mission with a study schedule aimed at victory. But even the busiest bees need rest, and when her activity overload catches up with her, the bill for Lizzie’s buzz must be paid in ‘zzzz’. Hitting every right comic note, Shannon’s frantic illustration is the perfect vehicle for this cautionary tale about finding the balance between getting things done and taking time to stop and smell the roses. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

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Regardless of where you fall on the birthday party spectrum, the bottom line is that everyone wants their child to feel celebrated and special. After all, they will only be that age once. Here are a few ways to celebrate beyond just the birthday party.

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday parties have gotten so complicated. These days, young guests have busy schedules, cramming multiple parties into a single weekend or cutting parties short due to time constraints. When they do come, they bring their gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free dietary restrictions with them. This is all before you broach the increasingly divisive issue of whether or not to invite the entire class to the party or to be more discerning with the guest list. Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

Celebrate Birthday Eve

Think Christmas Eve but for birthdays. No child needs reminding that their big day is approaching, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re probably relentless in their reminders. But instead of tamping down the excitement, help them enjoy it. Tell them about the night before you met them: Where you were, what you were doing, how you were feeling. Look through 42

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Plan A Trip

old pictures, play family home movies and best of all, sing Happy Almost Birthday.

At first blush, a birthday trip sounds hard (and costly) to implement. But there are plenty of ways to gift a trip. You can take the whole family to a special destination, you can do a birthday getaway with both parents or you can make it a solo parent trip, for some quality one-on-one time. Finally, you can ask the grandparents to play tour guide. Because trips are harder to pull off, pick a set birthday for the celebration. The trip can take place when your child turns double digits, is sweet 16, or when you feel comfortable with them flying as an unaccompanied minor (if you’re sending them off to grandma and grandpa).

Have A Yes Day

Play genie and grant your birthday boy or a girl a Yes Day. While a genie only gives three wishes, you will be granting your child an entire day of yes. Ice cream for breakfast? Yes! Skipping school in the lieu of a day at the beach? Yes! The only rule on Yes Day is that there are no rules. But before you let your child’s imagination run wild, wise parents may want to set a few parameters, such as that the requests need to be reasonable and, in our family, are not to include the acquisition of pets.

Give Goody Bags To The Parents

Start A New Tradition

Even if you decide to go the traditional birthday party route, you can still shake things up a bit. I attended a recent birthday kid party where there were goody bags – for the moms. It was brilliant. After all, parents handle the RSVPs, buy the presents, and schlep the kids to the parties, why shouldn’t we be the ones to go home with the loot? MBP

We have a tradition that my parents started – the birthday chair. The birthday child wakes up to find his place at the breakfast table decorated with streamers, balloons and other goodies, like small snacks, lip glosses, light-up buttons announcing their age, etc… My children love the birthday chair and it’s a birthday must, even when we’re traveling. If you don’t have a tradition to carry on, it’s not too late to start one. You can deliver a special breakfast in bed, fill the room with balloons, or make a crepe paper “door” that your child has to burst through. Who knows, years from now, your child may be passing that tradition down to their children.

Jessica Graham is a freelance writer who has been published on Upworthy, Mothers Always Write and Parent.co. You can find her at In Pursuit of Loud, where she writes about the art of every day living. This article originally appeared on Parent.co.

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1201 Industrial Parkway, Saraland (251) 345-1928 740 Schillinger Road South, Mobile (251) 633-0636 Marble Slab Creamery offers truly unique gourmet ice cream cakes that give a chef-driven flair to any occasion. Our simple on-line ordering makes it easier than ever to bring home the perfect match for whatever you’re planning. www.marbleslab.com

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Pollman’s Bake Shop, Inc

4464 Old Shell Road, Mobile Classic Bake Shop serving Mobile since 1918! Cakes for all occasions, pastries, cookies and sandwiches. Wonderful Birthday Cakes! (251) 342-8546

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Cakes, Cupcakes and Treats Bake My Day

dessert tables for any event where style is a must! Our contemporary style sensibility coupled with a classic love of all things sweet make an ellenJAY dessert table the centerpiece of any celebration. (251) 219-7406 www.ellenjayevents.com

156-A McGregor Avenue North, Mobile We bake everything from scratch just like our mothers have for over 70 years. Our menu offers a variety of classic favorites and new twists on old fashioned recipes. Wonderful Cakes! (251) 219-7261 www.bakemydaymobile.com

Flour Girls Bakery

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Great American Cookie

700 Schillinger Road South, Mobile We have a cake for every occasion! Try a classic or get creative with customization options. (251) 635-1555 www.baskinrobbins.com

Cakes by Judi

4831 Schimpfs Lane, Mobile Cakes by Judi is well-known for their beautiful and delicious wedding cakes. But, did you know that you can also have a cake by Judi for your child’s birthday? Visit the website for details and don’t delay! (251) 666-1565 info@cakesbyjudi.com www.cakesbyjudi.com

Delish’s Desserts

23 Upham Street, Mobile Mobile’s favorite place for lunch and dessert. We offer a wonderful selection of birthday cakes, cookie, bars, pies, and much more. Come visit us and see what we can make for you! (251) 473-6115 www.facebook.com/delishsdessertseatery

ellenJAY Stylish Events + Sweets

2158 Airport Boulevard, Mobile ellenJAY offers custom sweets, chic decor and Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

809 Hillcrest Road, Mobile Hometown bakery specializing in handmade cakes, cupcakes, cookies and pastries. Find us on Facebook! (251) 634-2285 flourgirlsbakery2285@yahoo.com 1201 Industrial Parkway, Saraland We do all kinds of cookie cakes, cakes & ice cream cakes for all occasions. We bake fresh every day. Say it with a cookie cake! Please call at least 48 hours in advance for orders. (251) 345-1928 www.greatamericancookies.com

Great American Cookie

3490 Bel Air Mall, Mobile We do all kinds of cookie cakes, cakes & ice cream cakes for all occasions. We bake fresh every day. Say it with a cookie cake! Please call at least 48 hours in advance for orders. (251) 476-2447 www.greatamericancookies.com

Great American Cookie

740 Schillinger Road South, Mobile We do all kinds of cookie cakes, cakes & ice cream cakes for all occasions. We bake fresh every day. Say it with a cookie cake! Please call at least 48 hours in advance for orders. (251) 633-0636 www.greatamericancookies.com

Lighthouse Bakery

919 Chaumont Avenue, Dauphin Island We have all your bakery needs on Dauphin Island. (251) 861-2253

750 South Broad Street, Mobile Classic Bake Shop serving Mobile since 1918! Cakes for all occasions, pastries, cookies and sandwiches. Wonderful Birthday Cakes! (251) 438-1511

Sally’s Piece-A-Cake

5638 Three Notch Road, Mobile Your imagination is our reality! We offer cakes for all occasions; we have a daily selection of cupcakes and treats. Ask about our catering and sweet table. (251) 219-6379 www.sallyspieceacake.com

Simply Sweet Cupcake Boutique

6207 Cottage Hill Road Suite B, Mobile Simply Sweet Cupcake Boutique is a locally, family, owned cupcake bakery. Our frostings and cupcakes are made fresh, in small batches, daily to ensure quality. Simply Sweet also specializes in creating Wedding, Birthday, and other Special Occasion Cakes that will make your event one of a kind! (251) 665-3003 www.simplysweetmobile.com

Sweet Ryn’s Bakery

Mobile Birthday cakes and cupcakes. (251) 285-9357 Find us on Facebook

Entertainment to You Animal Tales, LLC ad on page 31

Live Exotic Animal Birthday Parties! Animal Tales conducts educational programs for over 900 schools and libraries annually in 15 states. Bring our animals to your location for a unique birthday party experience. 6+ animals of your choice, 45-50 minute show. (800) 589-5408 ext 2 info@animaledzoocation.com www.animaledzoocation.com

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Balloon Bubble Buddies

We are balloon twisters in the Alabama Gulf coast area. Do you have a party or celebration coming up? We provide a full scope of roving entertainment at your party which includes our balloon animals, bubble-maker, confetti gun, t-shirt launcher (which can launch parachuting army men, stuffed animals and party gifts). We have arches, custom centerpieces and various decorations for your party/ gathering. (251) 233-9647 www.balloonbubblebuddies.com

Dr. Gee’s Magic & Balloons

Magic and Balloons for Parties, Promotions and Events. Well-Scripted Entertaining and Educational Magic Shows. Find us on Facebook. (251) 662-7415

Entertainment Management Services

506 Lakeshore Drive, Daphne We are the children’s entertainment experts! We have the best in magic shows, balloon art, face painting, inflatables, rock walls, costumed characters, Easter Bunny, Santa, carnival rides and games, cotton candy and popcorn machines, cakes, entertainment and decorating for children and teens. (251) 626-1274 www.entertainmentstars.com

Faces By Alyce

Face Painting for your party or special event. (251) 303-6700 facesbyalyce@yahoo.com

Jon the Balloon Guy

Birthday party entertainment making your child the STAR of the show. Interactive magic show and balloons. (251) 447-7164 jonstaytonentertainment@gmail.com

delivery to anywhere in the greater Mobile area, but you’re always welcome to drop by during our regular business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. (251) 471-4383 www.artcraftpress.org

Sunshine the Clown

Gulf Coast Beads

5017 B Cottage Hill Road, Mobile Serving the Gulf Coast with quality party novelties and decorative design merchandise. (251) 308-1234 www.gulfcoastbeads.com

Balloon artist, magic tricks & balloons! (251) 591-2415 sunshinetheclownmobileal@ gmail.com

Uncle Joe’s Rolling Zoo

Petting zoo that comes to you! Friendly animals are brought to your location for a petting zoo experience. (251)866-7713

Weabo the Clown

Balloon artist, clown, and face painting, Perfect for parties, picnics and all special events. (251) 463-4939 or (251) 463-4938 weabo55@yahoo.com

Invitations - Décor Party Supplies Art Craft Press, Inc.

Gwin’s Stationery

4513 Old Shell Road, Mobile Gwin’s Stationery is a Locally Owned Stationery and Invitation Store located in Spring Hill. Fine custom printing and engraving. (251) 344-3335 gwins.stationery@gwins.cc www.gwinsstationery.com

It’s Inviting

4402 Old Shell Road, Mobile Custom Printed Invitations, Calling Cards, Party Supplies, Gifts and more. (251) 460-0738 www.itsinvitingmobile.com

Paper Jubilee

12 Tacon Street, Mobile Fine printing since 1929. We are conveniently located in midtown Mobile and offer free pick-up and

2032 Airport Boulevard Suite H, Mobile Paper Jubilee is a stationery store in Midtown - Mobile. Come and see! Personalized gifts and stationery! (251) 401-5685 paperjubilee@aol.com www.paperjubilee.printswell.com

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Party City

300 East Azalea Road, Mobile Paper goods, balloons, favors, invitations, piñatas, music, catering supplies and much more. Party City is the #1 source for all your party supplies with the biggest selection and the best prices. (251) 342-0003 www.partycity.com

Soiree Signatures Invitation Studio & Calligraphy

24 North Florida Street, Mobile (251) 209-3265 info@soireesignatures.com www.soireesignatures.com

Toomey’s Mardi Gras

755-A McRae Avenue, Mobile Founded in 1978, Toomey’s Mardi Gras is one of the largest suppliers of Mardi Gras and Seasonal Merchandise in the world. Come check out all our Special Occasion supplies which includes birthday party hats, paper supplies, favors & more. (251) 450-5012 www.toomeys-mardigras.com

Places to Party Alabama Contemporary Art Center ad on page 37

301 Conti Street, Mobile Alabama Contemporary Art offers birthday “paint” parties for ages 4-10. Celebrate your special day the artistic way! (251) 208-5671 info@alabamacontemporary.org www.alabamacontemporary.org

Bright Spot ad on page 13

2501 East I-65 Service Road North, Mobile Fabulous Day Package includes a private party room and personal Party Assistant, coordinated paper products and balloons. Each child receives 2 slices of pizza, ice-cream cup and beverage. Children enjoy 30 minutes in the indoor play ground, 30 minutes in the arcade room, 30 minutes in the gym playing basketball and jumping in the bounce house and the last 30 minutes are spent in the private party room. (251) 338-8600 brightspot@mthebroncm.org www.brightspotevent.com

Dauphin Island Marina – The Duke ad on page 9

650 LeMoyne Drive, Dauphin Island Have your birthday party on the Duke. Adults & children alike love to pull the shrimp net and look for dolphins! Our birthday party adventure is unlike any other so get prepared for an awesome birthday party adventure! (251) 861-2201 reservations@actionoutdoors.org www.actionoutdoors.org Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

Estuarium at Dauphin Island Sea Lab ad on page 49

101 Bienville Boulevard, Mobile Host your birthday party at the Estuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Both entertaining and educational, the aquatic and hands on exhibits provide hours of excitement for your party guests. Event bookings include a 4 hour rental of our party room in the morning or afternoon for approximately 35-40 persons with free admission to the Estuarium included. (251) 861-2141 x 7000 www.disl.org

Get Air Mobile ad on page 26

842 Schillinger Road South, Mobile We do parties! Numerous party packages available. (251) 241-3101 www.getairmobile.com

LazerZONE ad on page 7

790 Schillinger Road North, Mobile LazerZONE Mobile is the place for you to have a “blast!” So get ready and plan your next event or day of entertainment at LazerZONE Mobile! We have several packages to choose from including our NEW Glow in the Dark Golf! Need fun on the go? Our Cannonball Air Blaster is on wheels and available for parties or festivals! (251) 639-7330 info@lazerzone.co www.lazerzonemobile.com

Original Oyster House ad on page 31

3733 Battleship Parkway, Mobile We love birthdays, especially recognizing that your family and friends have chosen our place to celebrate such a special occasion. Considering making your party private? Be sure to check out our private rooms for any occasion. (251) 626-2188 www.originaloysterhouse.com/ group-events.php

OWA

Splatty Patty, LLC ad on page 29

109 Upham Street, Mobile Little girl beautification zone. We offer mini manicures, pedicures and mini makeup birthday parties. We specialize in making little girls glamorous!!! Party themes include Having a Splatty Time, Splatty Patty in Your Jammies, Glitter Glam, The Sweetest Splatty Patty Deal. Cake and or Candy Buffet can be added to any party for an additional fee. 251-721-8968 www.splattypatty.com

USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park ad on page 49

2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile Celebrate your child’s next birthday aboard the Battleship USS ALABAMA. Your guests will enjoy touring the Battleship USS ALABAMA, the Submarine USS DRUM, and the Aircraft Pavilion. Please call to schedule your next party. (251) 433-2703 www.ussalabama.com

Waterville, USA Water Park ad on page 43

Highway 59 South, Gulf Shores Waterville USA is able to host lots of different group outings such as, company parties, birthday parties, family reunions, church outings, end of season sports team parties, boy/girl scout events, as well as after-hours private parties. The possibilities are endless! Visit our website for detailed Birthday Party Packages. Please call to make your event reservation. (251) 948-2106 wville2@gulftel.com www.watervilleusa.com

2:21 Fun Factory

3761 Government Boulevard A, Mobile We are 2:21 Family Fun Factory. Here is where all the fun begins. Adults and Children alike have a blast at our parties. Call us to book your next party. (251) 378-5296 www.221live.com

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

ad on page 3

1501 South OWA Boulevard, Foley Discover a whole new level of fun when you throw a birthday party at the Gulf Coast’s newest entertainment destination. OWA’s 20+ ride amusement park — The Park at OWA — is the perfect place to celebrate your child’s special day. With attractions for all ages, a 9,500 sq. ft. splash pad and so much more, The Park at OWA is the place to be for birthday fun. (251) 923-2111 sales@visitowa.com www.VisitOWA.com

1204 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores Celebrate at the zoo with guests and enjoy a full day at the zoo! We have an animal show and shaded picnic area for your party. Each guest can also get a souvenir cup of animal feed for the petting zoo for $1.00. Reservations for events, parties or groups is required. For more information and booking please call or email. Hours are Monday – Sunday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (251)968-5731 info@algulfcoastzoo.org www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org

Alligator Alley

Pump-it Up ad on page 41

741 Hillcrest Road # A, Mobile Pump It Up is the ONLY party facility in Mobile offering PRIVATE parties with the option to personalize your party depending on your child’s personality. Personalize by choosing one of our awesome add ons including: GLOW parties, Balloon Drop, Bubbles Extravaganza, Princess party, Super hero party, Pirate party and Face painting! (251) 342-3940 www.PumpItUpParty.com/ mobile-al

19950 Highway 71, Summerdale At Alligator Alley, we currently have over 500 alligators from the hatchlings in our gift shop to the big alligators in our swamp land. Enjoy a nature walk to our various exhibits as you journey towards the big swamp, and the ultimate king of Alligator Alley, Captain Crunch! You’ll also see green herons, owls, turtles, bullfrogs, a fox squirrel and more. In our gift shop area, we also display other amphibians, reptiles, and rare species of various field animals. Birthday Parties: $250 includes 20 people. $10 for each additional adult and $8 for each additional

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Altitude Trampoline Park

3658 Airport Boulevard Suite C, Mobile The results are in! Kids love birthday parties at Altitude Trampoline Park. It’s also a known fact that parents love them, too! Schedule your birthday party with Altitude and let our party host do all of the work. From organization to setup and cleanup, parents should feel like they are able to sit back and enjoy the party as much as the kids. (251) 725-0171 www.altitudetrampolinepark mobile.com

AMC Mobile 16

785 Schillinger Road South, Mobile Let us help you celebrate the birthday of a child, friend, or yourself! Whether you’re looking to enjoy just a show, or to add snacks, AMC is THE destination for great celebrations! We can’t wait to host your special day! (251) 639-7373 www.amctheatres.com

AMF Bowling Centers

125 North Schillinger Road, Mobile Looking for a great way to guarantee a memorable birthday party for kids? Look no further - AMF has it covered. From food to activities, we take care of everything for you. (251) 639-1221 www.amf.com

Beginner’s Luck

AMF Bowling Centers

4120 Government Boulevard, Mobile Looking for a great way to guarantee a memorable birthday party for kids? Look no further - AMF has it covered. From food to activities, we take care of everything for you. (251) 661-1221 www.amf.com

Azalea City for the Arts

5392 Dawes Lane Ext, Theodore Let us host your next birthday party or special event. Horseback rides, miniature horse cart rides, games, bunnies, chickens, luna the lamb, June the mini goat, Florence and Dutches the pigs, chickens, ducks and much more! Find us on Facebook! (251) 605-3499

63 Midtown Park East, Mobile We have great options for your Birthday Party! Some of our options are Drama and Photo Shoot Party, Frozen Themed Drama and Photo Shoot Party, Glow Rave Dance Party or you can rent our largest room and have any party you want! Please contact us for any information. (251) 510-1808 www.azaleacityarts.com

Big City Toys

Back Country Trail

Bob’s Paintball

3801 Orange Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach Bike or Hike to your next family picnic, birthday party, or field trip on the Back Country Trail. Enjoy biking, hiking, bouldering, and the butterfly garden as you tour 13 miles of scenic trails through Gulf State Park. Don’t forget to visit the Campground Store to purchase trail gear and snacks! For more information email trail@cityoforangebeach.com. (251) 981-1180 trail@cityoforangebeach.com www.backcountrytrail.com

4356 Old Shell Road, Mobile We have a super-duper fun special section with your own playset and movie theatre! We can do as much or as little to make your day fun-tastic for your birthday VIP! (251) 308-8997 bigcitytoys@yahoo.com www.bigcitytoys.com 3428 Dawes Road, Mobile Planning a birthday party out at Bob’s Paintball is a great way to celebrate. Come out and play and you’ll have so much fun that will be spoken about for years to come...or until your next visit. (251) 639-8245 www.bobspaintball.com

Breakout Mobile

3090 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile Come have a party at Breakout. With many different rooms that follow unique storylines, you and

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your friends will have 60 minutes to escape your adventure of choice by cracking codes, solving puzzles and following clues. Part problem solving, part adrenaline and end to end fun. (251) 460-1284 www.breakoutmobile.com

Build-A-Bear Workshop

30500 Highway 181, Spanish Fort Each guest will make his or her own stuffed animal friend. A party leader guides them through each step of the bear building fun and then through party games. Party time ranges from 1-1.5 hours, depending on the number of guests. A minimum of 6 guests is required for each party package. Parties include a party host, photo, printable invitations, thank you notes and party gifts for each guest. (251) 625-4183 www.buildabear.com

Cammie’s Old Dutch Ice Cream Shoppe

2511 Old Shell Road, Mobile Celebrate your birthday at Mobile’s favorite Ice Cream Parlor! Enjoy Ice Cream, Sundaes, Sodas,

Cici’s Pizza

6750 Airport Boulevard, Mobile Cicis offers a very fun and unique, one of a kind, hands on pizza making birthday party for all ages using Cicis special pizza making tools and ingredients. Your personal Cicis hostess will take you through all of the steps and give you some fun facts as you create your own pizza.We’ll handle all the stress and all the mess. (251) 341-0880 www.cicis.com/locations/almobile-6750-airport-blvd

Cold Snap Frozen Yogurt

266 South McGregor Avenue, Mobile A unique (and FUN) self serve yogurt experience, Cold Snap offers 24 yogurt flavors, 80+ toppings and outstanding service. Cold Snap is locally owned and operated. Catering - Birthday Parties Field Trips - And MORE! (251) 344-7074 www.coldsnapfrozenyogurt.com

Ferris Wheel and Mini Golf at The Wharf

23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach The Wharf is home to one of the largest ferris wheels in the Southeast standing over 112 feet tall. The ferris wheel is $5.00 per ride (3 years and under are Free). Play a few rounds at our all new 18-hole Mini Golf Course. Be prepared “fore” a swinging good time! Mini golf is $7 per person (4 years and under are Free). Ferris Wheel hours are Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm Mini golf hours are Monday-Sunday, 12pm – 9 pm. Please call for party and group rates. Picnic tables and umbrellas are available for parties. (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Hummingbird Zipline Course

Charming Teacup

17111 Scenic Highway 98, Fairhope Give your little girl a birthday she’ll always remember! Charming Victorian Tea Parties for little ladies. We provide the gorgeous gowns, fancy hats, jewelry and a full tea service on dainty china. Etiquette, ballroom dancing, and games also included. You won’t have to lift a finger! We have 6 fabulous party packages to choose from. (251) 463-8602 thecharmingteacup@gmail.com www.charmingteacup.com

Chuck E. Cheese’s

710 Downtowner Loop West, Mobile Throw a magical party without lifting a finger! Our parties are a totally cool way for your kids to celebrate with the fun of Chuck E. Cheese’s. Plus, all you do is relax. Because we do all the work. (251) 342-8142 www.chuckecheese.com Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

Dreamland Skate Center

5672 Three Notch Road, Mobile Groove to the beats on roller skates at this birthday party! Many party packages to choose from and all include lots of skating time, a party room, pizza, drinks and invitations. Glow parties and private parties also available! (251) 661-6997 www.dreamlandskatecenter.com

Fairways Indoor Golf Club

25000 Bass Pro Drive (Suite 104) , Spanish Fort Our facility is a perfect environment for corporate events, teambuilding exercises, private parties, and fundraisers! (251) 621-5277 info@fairwaysindoorgolfclub.com www.fairwaysindoorgolfclub.com

Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center

155 South Water Street, Mobile Celebrate your child’s birthday in a one-of-a-kind way- in Mobile’s newest attraction on the Mobile River! If your child loves the water, boats or maritime life, GulfQuest is the birthday party destination for you and your family! Designed for children ages 5-10, GulfQuest birthday parties are centered nautical themes. A party host will set up, decorate, lead an activity and the best part - clean up! (251) 436-8901 info@gulfquest.org www.gulfquest.org

3964 Airport Boulevard, Mobile Dippin’ Dots, the original beaded ice cream, is available in your area! Stop into our location to check out our delicious ice cream products, or contact us for info about catering, birthday parties and more. (251) 378-5460 www.dippindots.com

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Mobile Quack! Quack! Get ready to SPLASH with us during the most entertaining tour in America! We will always seek to exceed your expectations every time you join us for one of our unique land/water tours! (251) 802-8687 Taylor@GulfCoastDucks.com www.gulfcoastducks.com

Gulf Coast Ducks

GulfQuest

Old Fashion Banana Splits, Milk Shakes, and more! Call us today for information on how to book a party! (251) 471-1710 www.cammiesolddutch.com

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65 Government Street, Mobile At the Gulf Coast Exploreum, we’ve got children’s birthday parties down to a science. When you book your child’s party with us, you relax while we do all the work. We provide themed invitation templates, party favors, a cool birthday cake and a fun experiment to entertain the guests. We even handle the clean up! Select a party package and let us do the rest! (251) 208-6893 www.exploreum.com

Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream

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4700 Main Street (Unit G-114), Orange Beach Hummingbird Zipline Course features eight towers covering over 6,000 feet! With heights up to 115 feet and speeds over 30 MPH, participants soar on a 2 ½ hour tour over pristine bays, the Intracoastal Waterway and through a Federallyprotected wetland, beginning and ending just off of The Wharf’s Main Street. Please call for party and group rates. (877) 947-8434 or (251) 948-9494 info@gulfadventurecenter.com www.zipthegulf.com

KJB Studio

2605 Old Shell Road, Mobile Beads and jewelry making birthday parties are so much fun! Ages 8 and older. Parties held at our store after-hours. (251) 473-8650 www.facebook.com/kjbstudio

Kraze Frozen Treats

6167 Airport Boulevard, Mobile Have a birthday coming up? What better way to celebrate than at Kraze Frozen Treats, where it’s always fun and always delicious! We can accom-

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modate party reservations, and even have the Kraze Bear make an appearance. (251) 316-0045 www.krazefrozentreats.com

sion, 90 minutes of complete fun. Let the Good Times Roll, with your next birthday celebration! (251) 431-9334 www.mobilecarnivalmuseum.com

and visiting the other farm animals in a clean and safe environment. (251) 957-6465 www.thepartridgeplantation.com

Linda’s Learning Farm

Nasser Gymnastics

Pete’s Party Castle

2380 Havens Road, Semmes Birthday Celebrations on the farm include animal viewing in the barn, playground and picnic area, hayrides and horseback riding. (251) 649-1802 www.learningfarmandplaypark.com

Mobile Bay Bears

755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard, Mobile Throw your child the coolest birthday party in the area by celebrating at “The Hank”. Several packages and numerous add- on’s to choose from, The standard package includes: 12 tickets, first pitch for the honoree, souvenir baseball for the birthday honoree, video board recognition, One dozen cupcakes, Mascot appearance, Personal & friendly service from a BayBears representative. (251) 479-2327 baybears@mobilebaybears.com www.mobilebaybears.com

Mobile Carnival Museum

355 Government Street, Mobile Celebrate your birthday in royal style. Birthday Package Includes: Accommodations for up to 12 children and 12 adults,12 Favor bags, Museum access and admission, On-site parking, Design and create your own Mardi Gras Mask, Party supervi-

3055 Old Shell Road, Mobile A Birthday Party at Nasser Gymnastics is guaranteed FUN and instructional for kids. Your child will feel like a super star as they swing in the foam pit, jump on the trampolines, learn gymnastics and play games. After the one hour thrill in the gym, children continue celebrating in our beautifully painted, private, party room. Your child will always remember that special birthday spent at Nasser Gymnastics! (251) 479-9311 nassergym@yahoo.com www.nassergym.net

Paint Party Studios

15 Upham Street, Mobile Paint Party Studios offers children’s birthday/group private parties. Painting choices for children’s parties are made in advance in coordination with the party host. Children are allowed to pick their own paint colors and make their painting as unique as they are. (251) 343-2423 www.paintpartystudios.com

Partridge Plantation

9574 Cumberland Road, Irvington A birthday party to remember begins at the Partridge Plantation! A two-hour party includes hayride, pony ride, table cloths and balloons, playground

2040 Schillinger Road South, Mobile Come see why we’re the best kid’s party place in town! Pete’s Party Castle is Mobile’s favorite place to sit back and let the kids play. Enjoy great food, arcades and a dragon playground. Even the little ones can play too in our toddler soft play area. (251) 281-1990 www.petespartycastle.com

Planet Gymnastics

900 Schillinger Road South, Mobile Gymnastics fun featuring trampolines, foam pits, rope swing, cargo net, and more. Different party packages to choose from. All party packages include gym time, party room, invitations, paper products, staff to help, & Bungee Trampoline for the birthday child. (251) 650-0699 PlanetGymnasticsAL@comcast. net www.planetgymnastics.com

Putting Place

5103 Girby Road, Mobile If you are looking for a location for a Great children’s party - The Putting Place has a party package for you! All parties include a round of mini golf for all guests and have free-range use of the party room, deck, and/or picnic tables for two hours. (251) 375-1490 theputtingplace@gmail.com www.theputtingplace.com

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Regal Mobile Stadium 18 (Hollywood Theatres)

1250 Satchel Paige Drive, Mobile Birthdays are better at the movies! (251) 473-9655 www.regmovies.com

Seward Farms

10836 Tanner Williams Road, Lucedale Celebrate birthdays, family reunions, and other special events with a fun-filled day on the farm! We offer several birthday party packages to choose from with optional add-on activities. Each party consists of two hours in our brightly colored party huts or our fire pit area under the trees. Please call or visit our website for specific packages and activity add-ons available. Reservations are required. (228) 641-3936 info@sewardfarms.com www.sewardfarms.com

Silver Lining Farm @ Mimi C. Peters Riding School

10727 El Nina Drive, Mobile Celebrate your child’s birthday at Silver Lining Farm! During the party, the children are able to ride for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. After riding, the children take a tour of the beautiful property singing and learning about horse breeds and colors. We end the party by feeding the horse’s carrots and apples in the barn. (251) 634-1229 horses@silverliningfarm.net www.silverliningfarm.net

Skateland

531 Highway 43 South, Saraland Come by and book your party! 3 Party Packages available. (251) 675-6601

Southern Alabama Paintball

4901 Montee Road, Theodore At Southern Alabama Paintball, we pride ourselves in providing a safe, family oriented paintball field for all players. We are Mobile County’s largest scenario, woodsball field on 15 acres of land. We also have laser tag and airsoft games. (251) 301-6004 www.southernalabamapaintball.com

Spa-Tea-Da

3938 Government Boulevard, Mobile Spa-Tea-Da! is a unique, boutique party spot and girl’s day spa experience specializing in fabulous theme birthday parties and day spa services by appointment in our girls only spa. Creative and whimsical tea parties that create lasting memories for you and your guests are just a phone call away! We also provide Spa-Tea-Da To Go! We bring the Spa party to your location! (251) 447-4846 www.spa-tea-da.com

Starlight Stables

11635 Dick Turner Road, Grand Bay We are the home of Toni’s ponies and party services! We offer pony rentals for parties! We come to you, or you can have your party here. (251) 391-4268 www.starlightstables.weebly.com

Sunshine Skate Center

950 Hillcrest Road, Mobile Come celebrate your birthday at Sunshine Skate Center! Skate and Go-Kart party options – The only indoor Go-Kart party in town with safe indoor go-karts with 2 great packages that include go-kart Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

racing, arcade time in our new arcade, invitations, and tokens. We also have many great skate packages that include invitations, free game tokens, admission and skate rentals! (251) 639-1704 info@sunshineskate.com www.sunshineskate.com

Sunshine Sue’s Playgarden

1108 Dauphin Street, Mobile Birthday Parties, Play Place, Drop off Service, Classes and more! Our parties are completely customizable, from affordable fun to absolutely amazing! (251) 421-2434 hello@sunshinesuesplaygarden.com www.sunshinesuesplaygarden.com

The Cookery

4850 Museum Drive, Mobile Let your little one celebrate a completely unique birthday, culinary style, as Executive Chef for the day. The budding chefs will work to prepare a themed menu item and special birthday celebration treat. After whipping up something delicious, they will enjoy banquet style dining in our Grand Hall dining area. (251) 654-7646 info@thecookerymobile.com www.thecookerymobile.com

The Fort of Colonial Mobile

150 South Royal Street, Mobile Offering pirates and princess Birthday Party options. (251) 802-3092 www.colonialmobile.com

website for detailed party information and reserve your special event today! (888) 569-5337 or (251) 752-5426 enquiries@ waleswest.com or allkids1248@gmail.com www.waleswest.com

West Mobile Swim Club

1355 Snow Road South, Mobile Swim on over with your friends for a pool birthday party. Private Parties for members and non-members available. (251) 285-7946 www.westmobileswimclub.com

Wild Native Delta Safaris

30841 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort WildNative Tours offers Birthday Parties for up to 42 guests aboard our fully covered USCG passenger tour vessel Osprey from our Delta Safaris location at 5 Rivers, Spanish Fort. Party pricing includes a boat tour, themed cake (a variety of themes are available) and individual ice creams for all children. We include all plates, napkins, and forks for the cake. Additional activities may be added to your party, including an extended boat tour, canoe/kayak/pedal boat rentals, custom scavenger hunts or water games and inflatables. Prices for these options vary, please request a custom quote if any of these add-ons interest you. Please call for booking and prices. (251) 259-8531 or (877) 411-SAFARI info@wildnative.com www.wildnativetours.com

Wonderland Children’s Museum

3200 Gulf Shore Parkway, Gulf Shores The Track is your Family Fun and Recreation Center in Gulf Shores, Alabama! Go Karts, Bumper Rides, Mini Golf, Thrill Rides and More! Go-Karts, Mini-Golf, Bumper Rides, and lots of family fun! Summer hours; Open 7 days a week from 10am - 10pm. Visit our website for tickets and package pricing. Group and party packages available. Like us on Facebook for coupons and discounts. (251) 270-0210 gulfshores@funatthetrack.com www.funatthetrack.com

151 Van Buren St, Daphne We are a new children’s museum offering a 9000 square foot educational play center, part time preschool hours, drop in care, full service parties, special events, field trips, and a cafe! We will have special sensory play days catering to our autistic community! We have taken all the best ideas and favorite exhibit’s and condensed it down to one center that appeals to everyone! We have a huge variety of party themes to choose from. (910) 478-7715 kari.noell@wonderlandcm.com www.wonderlandcm.com

The Watermelon Patch

Xtreme Paintball

The Track

6417 Hillcrest Park Court, Mobile The Watermelon Patch is a unique inside play facility that is designed especially for young children who are 0-4 years old. Our friendly staff will handle all the details from beginning to end so all you have to do is enjoy the party with your family, friends and guests. Because we know it’s a special day, we’ll make sure it’s a special party. (251) 633-3288 watermelonpatchkids@gmail. com www.watermelonpatchkids.com

Wales West

13670 Smiley Street, Silverhill Come and celebrate any occasion with a unique party at Wales West! We have different packages which can include an authentic Steam or Diesel Train Ride and a Minitrain ride. You can book during an event and enjoy the extensive decorations and festivities. Our facilities also include a Lake with Waterfall, Waterslide, Sandy Beach, Shady Deck, Fishing (guaranteed) and a Childrens’ playground area. Our Community Building offers a Party Room with kitchen, Deck overlooking the Lake, and an Indoor Heated Swimming Pool. See

900-A Schillinger Road South, Mobile An action-packed way to spend a birthday that is more suitable for older kids. Some fields are more of a natural setting while others are closer to structured complexes. Groups/parties must be booked in advance with a deposit. (251) 639-0399 www.xpb.us

YMCA Birthday Parties

92 Saraland Loop, Saraland Celebrate your Birthday with a Pool Party! You celebrate, we clean up! (251) 679-8877 www.ysal.org

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YMCA Birthday Parties

951 Downtowner Boulevard, Mobile Celebrate your Birthday with a Pool Party! You celebrate, we clean up! (251) 344-4856 www.ysal.org

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YMCA Birthday Parties

101 North Water Street, Mobile Celebrate your Birthday! You celebrate, we clean up! (251) 344-4856 www.ysal.org

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Rentals Blue Rents

1601 East I-65 Service Road South, Mobile Serving the Gulf Coast for over 50 years. Offering inflatables, games & activities, photo booths, concessions, tents, tables and chairs, catering and event equipment. We have some of the most experienced professionals in the rental business to assist you in your efforts to create, design, build and support your special event. (251) 479-8502 www.bluerents.net

Bounce and Slide Party Rentals of Saraland Water slides, dry slides, bounce houses, snow cone and popcorn machines. Fun for the Entire Family to enjoy! (251) 643-5570 or (877) 938-2505 Find us on Facebook

Bow-Tag

Marble Slab Creamery

chairs for rent!! Let us make your next event a special one! (251) 599-9301 info@jbsfunjumps.com www.jbsfunjump.com

Jumps-a-Lot

The largest variety of Inflatables available. Slides, obstacles, jumper’s, Inflatables, Rock Wall Climbs, balloons, tents & chairs, concession supplies & machine rentals, party supplies, mechanical rides and interactives ( Mechanical swings, Mechanical Bull, and The Melt down interactive inflatable). (251) 633-6676 www.jumps-a-lot.com

Mobile Popcorn (Carnival Supply)

KnockerBall Bay Area

Daphne Whether it’s a party, special event, or community involvement, Knockerball will show you a great time! Get In The Ball! (251) 295-4320 knockerballba@gmail.com www.knockerballba.com

Bow-Tag is a fantastic new, safe and friendly combat archery sport that can be played indoors or outdoors. Players wear masks and use recurve bows to shoot ultra-safe foam-tipped arrows at the opposing team members on the field. The equipment is completely mobile so you can come to us or we can bring it to you. (251) 895-5714 www.bow-tag.com

Kona Ice

Cheese Wagon

Photo booth rentals are a great addition to any special occasion. Our unique photo booth is fully customizable to fit your needs. Whether you want a small photo booth for just a few people or a large setup to accommodate ten people, we can handle it. (251) 490-5693 www.magicmemoriesphoto.com

Mobile’s original party bus! All of our buses come with: Club Style Lighting, Monster Sound System, Dance Poles, Auxiliary & Bluetooth Hook-Up, Flat Screen TV’s, Charging Ports, and more, we cater to all of your needs. (251) 510-8500 thecheesewagonpartybus@ gmail.com www.thecheesewagon.com

GyroSpace

We provide unique fun for children and adults, all ages, at birthdays, church events, corporate gatherings, festivals and more. Each person powers and controls their own GyroGym at the pace they enjoy. Parents & children share the exact same experience, to create memories & great photographs. We come to you, need no power source, & do everything to allow you to enjoy the entire experience. (251) 654-1311 gyrospace@bellsouth.net

Hallmark Party Rentals

Mobile Bounce houses, water sllides and more. (251) 554-3883 Find us on Facebook

Hurricane Inflatables

Hurricane Inflatables can make your special occasion or event easy, fun and memorable. We offer bounce houses, water slides, obstacle courses, rock walls, mechanical bulls, tents, tables, and concessions (cotton candy, snow cone, popcorn machines), interactive inflatable games and marketing promotions. (251) 923-7279 concessionmaker@hotmail.com www.hurricaneinflatables.com

JB’s Fun Jumps & Slides

JB’s Fun Jumps & Slides is your one stop shop for all things bouncy and fun!! We have space jumps, slides, combos, popcorn machines, sno-cone machines, cotton candy machines and tables/

740 Schillinger Road South, Mobile Marble Slab Creamery can help turn any event into a special occasion. Whether you want a Sundae Bar, Portable Slab or an ice cream cake to match your theme, you can count on us to dish out the freshest, best tasting ice cream anywhere. The Portable Slab is where we bring The Slab to you, it is like having a Marble Slab Creamery store brought to you complete with mixings, waffle cones and more! (251) 633-0636 www.marbleslab.com

Have Kona Ice Truck come to your next Birthday Party. We call it the Kona Entertainment Vehicle, because well…that’s what it is - a party on wheels! (251) 583-0889 konalife@kona-ice.com www.kona-ice.com

Magic Memories Photography LLC – Photo Booth Rental

3333-C Cottage Hill Road, Mobile Whether you are having a birthday party and are looking for Jumper Inflatables, Cotton Candy Machines, Sno-Kone Machines, Games, Extra Chairs and Tables, Hot Dog Steamers, and more, we have you covered. Your one stop fun shop. Also offering a full line of catering supplies. (251) 479-2492 www.mobilepopcorn.com

Mobile Trolley

The Old Shell Trolley is now available for rentals! Our four Trolleys seat up to 32 passengers featuring wooden seats, brass railings, windows that open, a rear platform, and is equipped with A/C and Heater. Also available is a CD player with Ipod hookup and speakers for music while in route to your destination. (251) 604-6626 www.oldshelltrolleyclub.com

Movie Go

Movie Screen Rentals. (251) 382-0951

Magnolia Farms

On Sight Game Theatre

15275 County Road 49 South, Summerdale What better place to have a party than at Magnolia Farm! We offer several party package options. All parties include a party host, covered party pavilion, several farm activities and much more. Some of our activities are available to bring to your party location or venue. (251) 605-7216 magnoliacornmaze@gmail.com www.magnoliacornmaze.com

On Sight Entertainment brings the best mobile video game truck party right to your front door. Our luxury, limo-style mobile game theater on wheels features 7 widescreen high-def TVs, surround sound and multiplayer gaming excitement! We have the latest titles from Xbox 360, Xbox ONe, Wii, Wii U and PlayStation 4! (251) 207-8102 1onsightentertainment@gmail.com www.onsightentertainment.com

Make Believe Parties

Once Upon a Time Parties

Mobile You can enjoy magical memories in your own living room. This is because we come to your location for your party event. Your requested character will arrive 30 minutes after your party begins. Some of this magic may include: songs, story time, royal portraits and general birthday fun! (251) 508-3145 www.makebelievepartiesmobileal.weebly.com

Marble Slab Creamery

1201 Industrial Parkway, Saraland Marble Slab Creamery can help turn any event into a special occasion. Whether you want a Sundae Bar, Portable Slab or an ice cream cake to match your theme, you can count on us to dish out the freshest, best tasting ice cream anywhere. The Portable Slab is where we bring The Slab to you, it is like having a Marble Slab Creamery store brought to you complete with mixings, waffle cones and more! (251) 345-1928 www.marbleslab.com

Bring the magic home. Book a fairy-tale character to attend Birthday parties, charity events and more in the Southern Alabama and Gulf Coast areas. onceuponatimemobile@gmail.com www.onceuponatimepartiesal.com

Starlight Stables

Wee Bounce 4 U Party Rentals

Mobile Wee Bounce Party Rentals, LLC is a family owned and operated business located in Mobile Alabama. We take pride in helping create a lifetime of memories for all of our customers. We always provide clean/high quality inflatables at a reasonable price. (251) 586-8594 www.weebounce4u.com MBP

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Curbing Your Teen’s Selfishness Some parents feed their teen’s selfishness into adult years by continuing to rotate their life around them. I tell parents that at age 15 it is time for them to begin aggressively helping their teen get over a selfish mindset. Instead of always wanting to be “served” by mom and dad, older teens need to do things for themselves and also learn to serve others. After all, they are potentially only a few short years away from having to live totally unselfishly as parents themselves. Should this selfishness be allowed to grow during the teen years it will only accentuate into other problems after they leave home. So how do you put an end to your teen’s selfishness? First, you need to put on the brakes! Stop doing everything for your teen. Quit jumping every time he says “frog.” His control over your life and the life of others in your family is to cease, beginning now. Review the negative habit patterns you established in your home in the early years, and let it be known in a gentle way that you’ll no longer be doing a lot of the things that you had been doing to help them as a younger child. Break the news to them in this way: • I’ll no longer be doing your laundry. • I’ll no longer get you out of bed in the morning. • I’ll no longer accept childish whining from you. • I’ll not be doing what should be your chores, like cleaning your room or bathroom. I’ll no longer nag you about what you need to accomplish. • I’ll no longer pay for gas or give you spending money unless you earn it. Get my point? You have got to stop doing some things, so that your child can start learning to do some of these things for Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

themselves. You stop and get out of the way, so he or she can start. If you don’t do this, your teen is not being required to grow up. And I see a great number of kids today that remain immature into early adulthood. That happens not because of forces of nature or culture, but because parents enable it. So the first step is to just stop. Can you do that? And I mean both parents, not just one. The second step then is to have a discussion with them about why you’re stopping. It doesn’t have to be a deep philosophical discussion about their need to learn responsibility. I would leave it as a simple, “Because you now have the ability to do it for yourself and I don’t want to do it anymore!” Any comments beyond that will only stir up further fruitless discussion. Let your teen know that you’re not doing “it” (whatever “it” is) because you don’t want to do “it” any more. You’ll be amazed how it will put him in a position of not being so demanding of you, and will put you in a position of not having to do everything for them. Sometimes it is best to let teenagers know that they will have to start these new responsibilities “this summer,” or, “when school starts,” or, “when you turn 15,” or, “the first of the year.” That way you prepare them for the change that is coming. Don’t drop it on them overnight. Maybe even work side by side with them for couple of weeks as you make the transition, but be clear when your assistance will stop and that you’ll not do it yourself during the transition period. They have to help. Again, here’s what to tell them: • They’ll be doing their own laundry and if not, they’ll have nothing to wear. • The alarm clock you are putting in their room is so they can wake themselves and get to school on time. If not, they’ll get in trouble at school. 52

• That you expect respectful talk and no more childish whining. • That you’ll help in emergencies, such as typing their homework if their fingers are broken (use a little humor). This is something one adult would do for another if they needed the help. • That you’re not going to nag them any more. You’ll ask once and that’s it. Then, they’ll have to suffer the consequences if they don’t do it in a timely fashion. • That they’ll have to begin earning some money to pay for their own gas for the car. You may pay for the insurance and some upkeep; but that’s it. • That they’ll have to clean their own room. If they want to live in a dump, that’s their choice. If they want a clean bathroom, you’ll purchase the cleaning materials, but that’s all. • They’ll have to change burned out light bulbs, wash towels, and scrub their own toilet. Say you can’t do those things for them because you can’t breathe when you’re in their room for the smell of the dirty shoes, socks and shorts. I’m sure that when you present these things to your son or daughter, you’ll get to see their selfishness in action. They won’t like it and may even throw a tantrum. If so, then it only says that you should have started this process sooner. They’ll drop the ball a few times and have to suffer the consequences as a result, but be sure not to rescue them from their selfishness nor lessen the consequences. Doing so will only cause selfishness and immaturity to continue. It’s a common phrase I use with kids: “I owe you nothing, but want to give you everything.” This phrase allows me to communicate a “counter” to their selfishness, and promotes a concept of respect.

Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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Teach Them While They’re Young Q. My wife and I want to begin teaching our son how make a budget and live on one. He’s 16, and he has a part-time job and a hand-me-down car. Is this a realistic idea?

A. Your son is at a great point in life to learn how to make money behave. Even in his situation, when he’s still living at home, there are plenty of things he can include in a budget. There’s gas for his car, along with maintenance and insurance. He’ll need to save a little money — maybe even for college — and I’m sure he’ll want some spending cash, too. Sit down, and teach him how to make a written budget by figuring out the upcoming month’s income and expenses ahead

of time. Also, make sure he knows how to properly balance and reconcile his bank account. It’s still your responsibility to provide him with the basic necessities at this point. But I love your willingness to teach your son how to handle money intelligently. The sooner he learns some basic money management principles, the sooner he’ll be able to handle his finances responsibly in the real world!

Controlling Your Cash Q. I work long hours, and I make pretty good money. The problem is the money from my paychecks always seems to disappear before the end of the month. I know part of the problem is grabbing quick meals between extra shifts, and eating out a lot after work, because I’m usually too tired to cook when I get home. How can someone who has very

little free time start gaining control of their finances?

A. No matter how little free time you think you have, or how tired you are, you must make time do a written budget every month. This is essential. Making a budget for the month ahead isn’t a lot of hard work, and it really doesn’t take long. When you give every dollar a name before the month begins, you’re taking control of your money instead of allowing a lack of it to control you. Start with the income you know is predictable. If that isn’t possible, look back over the last few months and find the minimum amount you brought home during a month over that period of time. This will be the basis for your budget. Once you’ve established a baseline income, you can write down and prioritize bills and other expenses. Just remember, restaurants are not a priority! When you make a prioritized spending plan, and start telling your money what to do ahead of time, you’ll have the ability to do what’s important with what you’ve earned!

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My youngest two children, a girl and a boy, have birthdays that are three weeks apart. For their early years, when parties included primarily neighborhood friends, I combined their parties. I knew I had to come up with a theme that satisfied both genders in a range of ages. Here are a few party themes that work well for boys or girls. Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

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Princess and Knights

Every little girl wants a princess party and every little boy needs to release some energy. Encourage your guests to dress up or provide costumes to wear when they arrive.

Games:

1. Cross the Moat – Start with a large board or a few 2 x 4’s and keep getting smaller as the game goes on. You can have your moat over a small swimming pool or simply sitting on the ground. 2. Cup Stacking Castle – Work as a team or as individuals to make the tallest and sturdiest castle. You can limit the amount of cups each team gets or set up guidelines like it must have 5 cups on the base. 3. Find Cinderella’s Shoe – Ask all the girls to take off their shoes and drop one in a bin. The girls will sit on chairs and the boys will have to grab one shoe and see who it belongs to. This is a good way to partner them up for the Cup Stacking Castle.

Craft: Depending on their preference, the

kids can decorate their own armor, mask or tiara as found on Oriental Trading. They also have some great castle crafts.

Pirates and Mermaids

Similar to the Princess and Knight party, Pirates and Mermaids has something for everyone.

Games:

1. Sink the ship – Cut a pool noodle into slices to form circular boats and add a toothpick sail. Order bouncing balls in bulk to serve as your cannon balls. The guests serve as pirates and try to sink the ships with cannon balls.

2. Mermaid Race – Players will wear one leg of a pair of panty hose to cover both feet and legs. They will race on their bellies or backs as mermaids on land to see who gets there first.

Craft: Make glow in the dark play dough or bubbles. Both are made simply by adding neon non-toxic paint to your favorite DIY bubbles or play dough recipe.

3. Treasure Map – Find the treasure by following a map with clues. Set up in the party space or get the neighbors involved in a scavenger hunt.

Kids love to help in the kitchen, but these cooking projects can be made outside on the patio or inside at the kitchen table.

Craft:

Use an empty Gatorade bottle to create an I-Spy bottle. Alternate filling the bottle with small toys and either colored sand or rice.

Neon Party

This is a fun indoor party with black light or outside after sunset.

Games:

1. Neon Glow Tag – Have the kids wear play clothes that can get paint on them. Supply everyone with a clean white t-shirt. Break the group into teams and arm them with a paintbrush and neon glow paint. Set up boundaries and encourage the guests to splatter as much paint as they can on the other players. For safety reasons, supply the kids with neon sunglasses. 2. Color shut down – This is like old maid with glow sticks. Purchase several glow sticks and paint the bottom of one of them black. The kids will hold the glow sticks in their hands and try to make color matches by picking sticks from other players without getting the “old maid” painted bottom. 3. Glow in the Dark balloon volleyball – Cut the end off a glow stick and pour the contents in a latex air filled balloon. Tie off and have the kids try to keep the balloon from hitting the ground.

Little Baker

Activities: 1. Dirt pudding cups - Everyone loves getting dirty. Use crushed Oreos (have the kids make them with rolling pins in Ziplock bags) and layer in cups with premade chocolate pudding. Don’t forget to add gummy worms! 2. Too pretty to eat – The guests can decorate white bread with paint brushes and food coloring. When they are done, toast in toaster or in oven and return them to the kids to spread with jellies, butter or peanut butter. 3. Play with your food – Guests can design mosaics with dried colored beans, colorful fruit pizzas or make cars or boats out of bell peppers. The fun is only limited to their imaginations.

Craft: Keep up the cooking theme by creating food in a jar recipes that the kids can take home. Go through the steps together to fill the jar with the right ingredients, in the right order. Preprint the cooking instructions on paper for the kids to attach to their jar and take home. MBP Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. She loves to plan parties for all ages and celebrations. Follow her on Etsy at PamsPartyPrintables.

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FamilyCalendar Wednesday June 27

The Big Show (Free) 10:00 AM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, 36617 Movie - The Emoji Movie www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Summerflix (Free) 1:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, 36575 Movie - The Emoji Movie www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Matinee @ the Library (Free) 2:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Movie - The Lion King www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday June 28

Kids Days in Bienville (Free) 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Bienville Square , 182 Saint Francis Street Mobile, 36602 Bring the kids out to Bienville Square for summertime fun and enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts and visits from The Dauphin Island Sea Lab, the Mobile Police and Fire-Rescue Departments and much more! 251-208-1550 www.ncsmobile.org Family Dance Party! (Free) 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Boogie Down at the Library! Bring the whole family to the Library to explore all kinds of music and movement. 251-340-8555 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Teen Art Space (Free) 2:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, 36575 Join artist Jaime Lee and other guest presenters, to explore and create unique projects using different art forms each week. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Market in the Park for Summer 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Lavretta Park , 200 Parkway West Mobile, 36608 The City of Mobile’s Certified Alabama Farmers Market has a new name- Market in the Park -along with a new logo. The Thursday Market in Lavretta Park has the vendors you’ve come to love, but with new vendors as well! Now you have more locally-produced, locally-made items to choose from. www.ncsmobile.org Distinguished Young Women 61st National Finals First Preliminary 7:00 PM Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 Join us at the Mobile Civic Center Theatre for Distinguished Young Women’s First Preliminary Competition of the 61st National Finals as the Class of 2018 competes in fitness, talent and self-expression! www.distinguishedyw.org Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! Movie Schedule - June 28 Jaws, June 29 Trolls, July 5 Frozen, July 6 Zootopia townofdauphinisland.org

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

Friday June 29

one participant is named the Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2018. www.distinguishedyw.org

Saturday July 1

Rock Out at the Library! (Free) 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, 36571 Find your inner Rock Star at the Library! A karaoke machine and costumes will be provided. All ages. 251-675-2879 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Distinguished Young Women 61st National Finals Second Preliminary 7:00 PM Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 Join us at the Mobile Civic Center Theatre for Distinguished Young Women’s Second Preliminary Competition of the 61st National Finals as the Class of 2018 competes in fitness, talent and self-expression! www.distinguishedyw.org Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! Movie Schedule - June 28 Jaws, June 29 Trolls, July 5 Frozen, July 6 Zootopia townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday June 30

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 Bring the whole family for artistic fun at MMofA. Together, you will create a clay masterpiece while learning different handbuilding techniques. Adults and children ages 4 & up. www.mobilemuseumofart.com Tiny Tales & Playtime Storytime! (Free) 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Families with young children are invited for a time of stories, crafts and play. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Saturday Disney Classic Movie (Free) 1:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Movie - Pete’s Dragon www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Distinguished Young Women 61st Annual National Finals 7:00 PM Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 Join us as we celebrate 61 years of inspiring young women! The 61st Annual National Finals will feature eight finalists from the Class of 2018 as they compete in fitness, talent and self-expression. Thousands of scholarship dollars will be awarded before

Chick-Fil-A Story Time (Free) 10:00 AM The Shoppes at Bel Air, Mobile Every second Tuesday this summer, Chick-FilA will host a special story time with the Mobile Public Library at 10AM. Craft activity also included. 251-476-8361

Monday July 2

Kids Studio (Free) 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Parkway Mobile, 36605 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. Ages 8-13. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Kids Studio (Free) 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 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. Ages 8-13. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Monday Mystery Mix (Free) 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, 36617 Join us each Monday for a variety of fun filled activities and projects. Will it be stories, crafts, karaoke, Maker Lab Time or video and board games? Come by and find out. Registration is encouraged. 251-438-7075 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org LEGO My Library Storytime (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Families with young children are invited to listen to great books, and then build LEGO (Duplo) creations inspired by the stories. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday July 3

5 Rivers StoryTime (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. This week’s story is about the sights, sounds and smells of a salt marsh. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a reading of “A Day in the Salt Marsh” followed by arts and crafts. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Rock Project - Share Your Thoughts (Free) 10:00 AM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, 36617 Take the time to jot down inspirational and motivational words on rocks to show how your Library inspires you and your family every day 251-438-7075 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Terrific Tuesday Matinees @ Main (Free) 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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FamilyCalendar Tuesday Teen Matinees (Free) 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Libraries Rock Musical Matinees (Free) 10:30 AM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, 36571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

4th of July - Mobile (Free) 7:00 PM Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, 36602 Come out listen to patriotic songs performed by the Mobile Pops, enjoy a picnic, enjoy scenic Downtown Mobile... best of all celebrate the 242st birthday of our nation! Schedule-7 p.m.- Mobile Pops .m.- Fireworks www.ncsmobile.org 4th of July on the Fantail (Adults: $50. Children: $25) 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM, USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, 36602 Enjoy an evening aboard the USS ALABAMA as we celebrate July 4th. Live music, barbeque, specialty cocktail, ice cream buffet and more. Children receive an autograph copy of our children’s story book “Hooray for the Mighty A.” 251-433-2703

Grand Bay Watermelon Festival 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM, 10327 Taylor F. Harper Grand Bay, 36541 The Grand Bay Watermelon Festival is open on July 3rd from 3 to 7 pm and on July 4th from 8 am to 4 pm. An annual family fun event with all the free, sliced, ice cold watermelon you can eat, but only on the 4th. (The watermelons will be chilling on the 3rd) Free admission on the 3rd and just $5 per vehicle on the 4th. grandbaywatermelonfestival.org

Thursday July 5

Semmes Freedom Celebration 4:00 PM Mary G. Montgomery, 4275 Snow Road North Mobile, 36575 This event iss a family-friendly event for the community designed to provide a place for everyone to celebrate what Americans hold dear to their hearts, “faith, family. and friends”. www.orchardassembly.com/sfc

Teen Art Space (Free) 2:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, 36575 Join artist Jaime Lee and other guest presenters, to explore and create unique projects using different art forms each week. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Teen Tuesdays (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Origami Shooting Stars. In celebration of the 4th of July, make your own Shooting Stars! Supplies and snacks provided. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Family Bingo Night (Free) 6:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Calling All Families! Come play Bingo at the Library! Prizes will be awarded and lemonade and popcorn will be served. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Club Night (Free) 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. 7pm-8:30pm; Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club.7pm-8:30pm; Mobile Bay Sierra Club 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Wednesday July 4

Grand Bay Watermelon Festival 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 10327 Taylor F. Harper Grand Bay, 36541 The Grand Bay Watermelon Festival is open on July 3rd from 3 to 7 pm and on July 4th from 8 am to 4 pm. An annual family fun event with all the free, sliced, ice cold watermelon you can eat, but only on the 4th. (The watermelons will be chilling on the 3rd) Free admission on the 3rd and just $5 per vehicle on the 4th. grandbaywatermelonfestival.org GulfQuest 4th of July Extravaganza 2:00 PM GulfQuest, 155 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 GulfQuest announces our inaugural 4th of July Extravaganza! On the Promenade overlooking the Mobile River, we’ll have family activities such as cornhole, a sidewalk chalk competition, waterslides and more. The Galley will be offering their fabulous hamburgers and other summertime fare for sale from 2-8 p.m. The evening will culminate with the City of Mobile’s spectacular fireworks display, backed by Mobile Pops, overlooking the river. www.gulfquest.org

Sing-a-Long Matinee in the Library (Free) 2:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Join us to watch and sing-a-long www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Market in the Park for Summer 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Lavretta Park , 200 Parkway West Mobile, 36608 The City of Mobile’s Certified Alabama Farmers Market has a new name- Market in the Park -along with a new logo. The Thursday Market in Lavretta Park has the vendors you’ve come to love, but with new vendors as well! Now you have more locallyproduced, locally-made items to choose from. www.ncsmobile.org Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! Movie Schedule - June 28 Jaws, June 29 Trolls, July 5 Frozen, July 6 Zootopia townofdauphinisland.org

Friday July 6

Penelope House 7:05 Hank Aaron Stadium, 755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard Mobile, 36606 On July 6 th the Mobile BayBears will take on the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp and each strike out by a BayBears pitcher will raise money for Penelope House. Businesses and/or individuals can pledge $20.00 for each strike out by a BayBears’ pitcher throughout the game or make a fixed donation. Pledges are being accepted by calling 251-342-2809 or pledging the night of the game.The first 1,000 fans will receive rally towels compliments of Domke Market to help celebrate each strikeout! 251-342-2809

Feature Friday (Free) 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Friday at the Firehouse 5:00 PM Various Locations, Mobile, 36608 Join us as we open our doors each Friday evening from June 1st through August 31st. Come tour the fire stations and meet your fire crews. Enjoy art stations, gear races, and light refreshments. We hope to see you there for all of the family fun! New fire station location each week please check our Facebook page for more information.

Summer Movie Time (Free) 1:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Mobile BayBears - Fundraiser for

Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! Movie Schedule - June 28 Jaws, June 29 Trolls, July 5 Frozen, July 6 Zootopia townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday July 7

Market in the Park for Spring 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square , 300 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 The City of Mobile’s Certified Alabama Farmers Market has a new name- Market in the Park -along with a new logo and location. The Spring Market is in Cathedral Square, with not only the vendors you’ve come to love, but with new vendors as well! Now you have more locally-produced, locally-made items to choose from. www.ncsmobile.org Kids Studio ($5 or free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 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 hands-on projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Age 3-10 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org Saturday Disney Classic Movie (Free) 1:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Reading Paws (Free) 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 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 Cathedral Square “Gone Country” (Free) Cathedral Square , Mobile, 36602 Bring your lawn chairs and coolers & listen to Matt Bartoli’s Original Music, plus his covers of Classic Country Sounds.

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FamilyCalendar Sunday July 8

The Market at The Pillars (Free) 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, The Pillars, 1757 Government Street Mobile, 36604 A fun afternoon of local makers, bakers, crafters and artists! Live music and local eats! This event is free and open to the public. Family fun and pet friendly! www.thepillarsofmobile.com/the-market

5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Club Night (Free) 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Free, everyone is welcome. Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. 7pm-8pm; Mobile Bay Audubon Society 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Monday July 9

Wednesday July 11

Summer Movie Adventure (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM, Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Parkway Mobile, 36605www.mobilepubliclibrary. org Monday Funday - West Regional Branch (Free) 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Come to the Library for games, crafts and so much more! 251-340-8555 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Monday Mystery Mix (Free) 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, 36617 Join us each Monday for a variety of fun filled activities and projects. Will it be stories, crafts, karaoke, Maker Lab Time or video and board games? Come by and find out. Registration is encouraged. 251-438-7075 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org LEGO My Library Storytime (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Families with young children are invited to listen to great books, and then build LEGO (Duplo) creations inspired by the stories. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday July 10

Terrific Tuesday Matinees @ Main (Free) 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Tuesday Teen Matinees (Free) 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Libraries Rock Musical Matinees (Free) 10:30 AM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, 36571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Teen Tuesdays (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Creative Writing 101. Have a great story idea but not sure where to begin? Bring your ideas and learn how to plot out your story, develop your characters and so much more. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Family Bingo Night (Free) 6:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Calling All Families! Come play Bingo at the Library! Prizes will be awarded and lemonade and popcorn will be served. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Tuesdays in Bernheim (Free) 6:30 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Mike Turner is an amateur songwriter and performer living on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. He was raised in the country and mountain music traditions by a family that originally hailed from West Virginia. Mike grew up in Detroit during the heyday of Motown. These influences find their way into Mike’s original songs, written primarily in the Americana, blues and gospel music genres. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

The Big Show (Free) 10:00 AM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, 36617 Join us each Monday for a variety of fun filled activities and projects. Will it be stories, crafts, karaoke, Maker Lab Time or video and board games? Come by and find out. Registration is encouraged. 251-438-7075 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36582 Serving utensils are designed to cut, spear, scoop, grasp, spread, strain and transfer food from plates, trays, platters and bowls. Over the years, the original purpose of many of these uniquely designed pieces has been lost or forgotten. Tom McGehee, Curator of the Bellingrath Museum Home, will help us decode some of the mysteries of Mrs. Bellingrath’s silver serving pieces. If you have a mystery piece at home, bring it – he may be able to determine what it is! 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org Summerflix (Free) 1:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, 36575 Movie - The Nut Job 2: Nutty By Nature www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Wednesday Movie Matinee (Free) 1:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday July 12

Summer Movie Time (Free) 1:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Teen Art Space (Free) 2:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, 36575 Join artist Jaime Lee and other guest presenters, to explore and create unique projects using different art forms each week. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Market in the Park for Summer 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Lavretta Park , 200 Parkway West Mobile, 36608 The City of Mobile’s Certified Alabama Farmers Market has a new name- Market in the Park -along with a new logo. The Thursday Market in Lavretta Park has the vendors you’ve come to love, but with new vendors as well! Now you have more locallyproduced, locally-made items to choose from. www.ncsmobile.org Kids Studio (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 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. Ages 8-13. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no

pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! Movie - Storks. townofdauphinisland.org

Friday July 13

Frozen Treat Fridays ($10 per person) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, 36608 Join us for Frozen Treat Fridays at the History Museum of Mobile! Each Frozen Treat Friday will include a hands-on craft activity, a tour of the Ice Age Imperials Exhibition, and frozen treat from Kona Ice Coastal Alabama! June 22 - Ice Age Animals Craft 251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com Rock Out at the Library! (Free) 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, 36571 Find your inner Rock Star at the Library! A karaoke machine and costumes will be provided. All ages. 251-675-2879 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Friday at the Firehouse 5:00 PM Various Locations, Mobile, 36608 Join us as we open our doors each Friday evening from June 1st through August 31st. Come tour the fire stations and meet your fire crews. Enjoy art stations, gear races, and light refreshments. We hope to see you there for all of the family fun! New fire station location each week - please check our Facebook page for more information. LoDa Artwalk 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Mobile, Lower Dauphin Street, Mobile, 36608 LoDa ArtWalk takes place every second Friday of the month from 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM in the Lower Dauphin (LoDa) Arts District. On this evening, local art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops open their doors for the public to come inside to view beautiful artwork, sample delicious foods, and hear the music of Mobile. This free family-friendly event is a staple of Mobile’s arts and culture. 251-208-1553 Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Movie - Moana townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday July 14

Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament 5:00 AM 531 Lemoyne Drive Dauphin Island , 36528 The Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament is designed to bring families together and encourage sportsmanship. RMYAT is for children 15 years and younger and it typically attracts more than 1500 young anglers. The one-day event features 31 categories with prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes in all categories. One Master Angler is awarded www.adsfr.com/rmyat.html Africatown Bridge Challenge 5K and 1 Mile 7:30 AM Africatown Welcome Center , Old Plateau Cemetery, Bay Bridge Cutoff Road Mobile, 36610 This race benefits Africatown Community Garden and Marketplace. www.eventbrite.com

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Libraries Rock Musical Matinees (Free) 10:30 AM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, 36571www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure Details July 17.

Teen Tuesdays (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Washi Tape Dry Erase Frame. Need a useful tool to jot down a list or two? Come make a cool, Washi Tape Dry Erase Frame. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Saturday Disney Classic Movie (Free) 1:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Family Bingo Night (Free) 6:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Calling All Families! Come play Bingo at the Library! Prizes will be awarded and lemonade and popcorn will be served. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Sing-a-Long Matinee in the Library (Free) 2:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Join us to watch and sing-a-long www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Teen Art Space (Free) 2:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, 36575 Join artist Jaime Lee and other guest presenters, to explore and create unique projects using different art forms each week. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Spirited Away: A Love Letter to Fantasy (Free) 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, Davidson High School, 3900 Pleasant Valley Road Mobile, 36609 Join us as we celebrate some of the greatest Fantasy tales ever told. We will take a musical journey to the faraway lands from film, television, and video game series. eventbrite.com

Sunday July 15

Summer Classic Movies 3:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Summer Classic Movie Series - Casablanca 251-208-5600 www.mobilesaenger.com

Monday July 16

Summer Movie Adventure (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM, Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Parkway Mobile, 36605 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Monday Funday - West Regional Branch (Free) 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Come to the Library for games, crafts and so much more! 251-340-8555 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Monday Mystery Mix (Free) 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, 36617 Join us each Monday for a variety of fun filled activities and projects. Will it be stories, crafts, karaoke, Maker Lab Time or video and board games? Come by and find out. 251-438-7075 www. mobilepubliclibrary.org LEGO My Library Storytime (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Families with young children are invited to listen to great books, and then build LEGO (Duplo) creations inspired by the stories. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday July 17

5 Rivers StoryTime (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. This week’s story is about birds! Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a reading of “Johnny Longlegs: A Tale of Big Birds” followed by arts and crafts. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Terrific Tuesday Matinees @ Main (Free) 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Tuesday Teen Matinees (Free) 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure 6:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 PAW Patrol Live! sets sail with a new pirate adventure! www.mobilecivicctr.com Tuesdays in Bernheim

(Free)

6:30 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Libraries Rock featuring Leland Clay www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wednesday July 18

Camp Girl 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Art House, 1100 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36604 Camp Girl is a day of empowering fun for fifth through seventh grade girls looking to develop essential skills. Science experiments, crafting, team building exercises and other exciting activities will help the girls learn through involvement and creativity. www.focuswc.com The Big Show (Free) 10:00 AM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, 36617 Join us each Monday for a variety of fun filled activities and projects. Will it be stories, crafts, karaoke, Maker Lab Time or video and board games? Come by and find out. Registration is encouraged. 251-438-7075 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home Designer Catherine Arensberg of “simple honest.design.” is passionate about designing luxurious spaces on real life budgets. She will show you how to create outdoor living spaces that are natural extensions of your home’s interior design and reflect how you and your family live. 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org Summerflix (Free) 1:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, 36575 Movie - The Nut Job 2: Nutty By Nature www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Wednesday Movie Matinee (Free) 1:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday July 19

Market in the Park for Summer 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Lavretta Park , 200 Parkway West Mobile, 36608 The City of Mobile’s Certified Alabama Farmers Market has a new name- Market in the Park -along with a new logo. The Thursday Market in Lavretta Park has the vendors you’ve come to love, but with new vendors as well! Now you have more locallyproduced, locally-made items to choose from. www.ncsmobile.org Auditions for The Miracle Worker 6:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre is pleased to announce the open auditions for our October show, The Miracle Worker, written by William Gibson. Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script. 251-457-8887 cctshows.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! Movie - Home townofdauphinisland.org

Friday July 20

Boredom Busters (Free) 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Come by the Library Fridays between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m.and check out our weekly boredom buster. We’ll be crafting, building, creating and so much more! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Rock Out at the Library! (Free) 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, 36571 Find your inner Rock Star at the Library! A karaoke machine and costumes will be provided. All ages. 251-675-2879 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Friday at the Firehouse 5:00 PM Various Locations, Mobile, 36608 Join us as we open our doors each Friday evening from June 1st through August 31st. Come tour the fire stations and meet your fire crews. Enjoy art stations, gear races, and light refreshments. We hope to see you there for all of the family fun! New fire station location each week please check our Facebook page for more information. Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! Movie - Rio townofdauphinisland.org

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FamilyCalendar Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo 531 Lemoyne Drive Dauphin Island , 36528 The 85th Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 20-22, 2018. The ADSFR is a 3-day Captain’s Choice tournament and a Southern Kingfish Association (SKA) sanctioned event. The total awards package is valued up to one million dollars in cash and prizes and anchored by a boat, motor, and trailer packages. The ADSFR has donated over $200,000 to the University of South Alabama Department of Marine Sciences and annually funds academic scholarships. www.adsfr.com

Saturday July 21

10:00 AM 10:00 PM, intersection of Dauphin and Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Located in the heart of the Mobile’s entertainment district, this pole vault

competition is a lively block party. 251-295-8481 www.dauphinstreetvault.com

Children’s Studio - Theatre Workshop with Playhouse in the Park ($40) 10:00 AM - 12:15 PM, Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 Designed for ages 8-12, a mask making activity begins at 10 a.m. Then we’ll walk across the street at 11:15 a.m. to Playhouse in the Park for an onstage, theatrical project. Students will be picked up at 1:15 p.m. at the MMofA Education entrance. 251-208-5200 www.mobilemuseumofart.com Something Special for Saturday (Free) 10:30 AM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Visit with friends and create your own Glitter Seashell Picture Frame. Ages 5 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org PIGnic - Guinea Pig FUN 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, B&B Pet Shop, 5035 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, 36609 Calling all GUINEA PIGS! You’re invited to the Guinea Pig PIGnic at B&B Pet Stop - a fun and educational event for Guinea Pigs and those who love them. www.bbpetstop.com Saturday Disney Classic Movie (Free) 1:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

Make & Take Musical Instruments (Free) 3:00 PM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, 36571 Come make your own drum, maracas, castanets or mandolins! All Ages. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo 531 Lemoyne Drive Dauphin Island , 36528 The 85th Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 20-22, 2018. The ADSFR is a 3-day Captain’s Choice tournament and a Southern Kingfish Association (SKA) sanctioned event. The total awards package is valued up to one million dollars in cash and prizes and anchored by a boat, motor, and trailer packages. The ADSFR has donated over $200,000 to the University of South Alabama Department of Marine Sciences and annually funds academic scholarships. www.adsfr.com

Sunday July 22

Summer Classic Movies 3:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Summer Classic Movie Series - Top Gun 251-208-5600 www.mobilesaenger.com Parents Day (Free) 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Emmanuel Seven Day Adventist, 2000 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Avenue Mobile, 36617 American Clergy Leadership Conference, a co-sponsor of this event, invites you to celebrate National Parents Day. Celebrate families, hear proclamations and enjoy music from area church choirs. 702-340-1373 Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo 531 Lemoyne Drive Dauphin Island , 36528 The 85th Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 20-22, 2018. The ADSFR is a 3-day Captain’s Choice tournament and a Southern Kingfish Association (SKA) sanctioned event. The total awards package is valued up to one million dollars in cash and prizes and anchored by a boat, motor, and trailer packages. The ADSFR has donated over $200,000 to the University of South Alabama Department of Marine Sciences and annually funds academic scholarships. www.adsfr.com

Monday July 23

Wanda Johnson - Storyteller (Free) 10:30 AM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, 36571 National award-winning storyteller, Wanda Johnson, uses the age-old art of storytelling to excite, delight and entertain audiences of all ages. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Monday Funday - West Regional Branch (Free) 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Come to the Library for games, crafts and so much more! 251-340-8555 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org End of Summer Bash! (Free) 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, 36575 Let’s wrap up the Summer Library Program with fun, food and school supply giveaways! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Monday Mystery Mix (Free) 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, 36617 Join us each Monday for a variety of fun filled activities and projects. Will it be stories, crafts, karaoke, Maker Lab Time or video and board

games? Come by and find out. Registration is encouraged. 251-438-7075 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org LEGO My Library Storytime (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Families with young children are invited to listen to great books, and then build LEGO (Duplo) creations inspired by the stories. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday July 24

Terrific Tuesday Matinees @ Main (Free) 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Tuesday Teen Matinees (Free) 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Libraries Rock Musical Matinees (Free) 10:30 AM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, 36571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Music and Rhythm (Free) 11:00 AM - 5:30 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Join us for a fun, interactive music and rhythm lesson from University of South Alabama vocal professor, Dr. Laura Moore. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Teen Tuesdays (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Want to tell a story and add just the right song too? Come learn how to make your own music video. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Teen Tuesdays (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Sharpie Tie Dye T-Shirts. Create your own Tie Dye T-Shirt without the mess - lets use Sharpies! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Family Bingo Night (Free) 6:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Calling All Families! Come play Bingo at the Library! Prizes will be awarded and lemonade and popcorn will be served. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Tuesdays in Bernheim (Free) 6:30 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Libraries Rock featuring Abe Partridge www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wednesday July 25

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FamilyCalendar Bay Bites Food Truck Festival 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Cooper Riverside Park, 101 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Bay Bites is a unique opportunity to enjoy a variety of cuisine from local food trucks, craft beer, live music, and a variety of games on the beautiful

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Library Price is Right: Back to School Edition (Free)

Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Participants receive a number as they enter Bernheim Hall. Opening bidding begins for participants to come up on stage. Players on stage will play pricing games on “back to school” supplies. All participants receive a prize for playing. Times: 9:00am, 11:00am and 1:00pm www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday July 26

Summer Movie Time (Free) 1:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Family Dance Party! (Free) 2:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Bring the whole family to the Library to explore all kinds of music and movement. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Teen Art Space (Free) 2:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, 36575 Join artist Jaime Lee and other guest presenters, to explore and create unique projects using different art forms each week. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Market in the Park for Summer 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Lavretta Park , 200 Parkway West Mobile, 36608 The City of Mobile’s Certified Alabama Farmers Market has a new name- Market in the Park -along with a new logo. The Thursday Market in Lavretta Park has the vendors you’ve come to love, but with new vendors as well! Now you have more locallyproduced, locally-made items to choose from. www.ncsmobile.org Domehead Science: Wild Weather, Sharknado, & Alan Sealls (General admission is $10 for adults or children. Member admission pricing is $8 for adults or children.)

6:00 PM Exploreum, 65 Government Street Mobile, 36602 “Weather- Wild, Weird, or What?!” Followed by a FREE viewing of “Sharknado” in the IMAX theater. www.exploreum.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! Movie - Finding Nemo townofdauphinisland.org African Percussionist & Storyteller (Free) Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, 36617 Makinde Gbolahan plays a variety of instruments that are native to the continent of Africa. His program combines music with stories to enlighten, encourage and entertain his audience. Times: 1:00pm and 2:30pm. 251-438-7075 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Friday July 27

Saturday July 28

Market in the Park for Spring 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square , 300 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 The City of Mobile’s Certified Alabama Farmers Market has a new name- Market in the Park -along with a new logo and location. The Spring Market is in Cathedral Square, with not only the vendors you’ve come to love, but with new vendors as well! Now you have more locally-produced items to choose from. www.ncsmobile.org Kids Studio ($5 or free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 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 hands-on projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Age 3-10 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org 2018 Summer Library Program Finale (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Join us for arts and crafts, games, karaoke and more! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 2018 Summer Library Program Finale (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Join us for games, crafts and snacks. Back to school supplies will be given out as door prizes to some lucky winners. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Love U Love U Day 2018 (Free) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, 36608 We are again embarking on 3rd annual Love U Love U Day. The event is a free community day event where school uniforms, socks, supplies are given away. The community have an opportunity to receive health and safety screenings, plus free food, prizes, music, and entertainment. theraingroup.org

Southwest Mobile Chamber of Commerce 5th Annual Kids Day (Free) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Tillman’s Corner Community Center , 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, 36619 We will have many fun activities including Inflatables, knockerball, largest mobile video game theater, laser tag, face painting, giveaways, food and more! With so much in store we are sure to make this a fun filled for the entire family. There is no cost to attend, we only ask people to bring a canned good to get into the gate. 251-666-2488 Harry Potter’s Birthday (Free) 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Saturday Disney Classic Movie (Free) 1:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Saturday July 29

Gulf Coast Exotic Animal Expo ($5, 12 and under are

free)

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Abba Temple Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, 36619 The Expo will bring you a brilliant bird fair as well as feature other exciting and exotic reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. There will be all the fuzzy, furry, creepy, crawly, cute, cuddly, slinky, slimy and feathered fun that you and your family can handle! There’s something for everyone – you can get amazing pets, supplies, and feed or just come hang out and enjoy all the animals and activities. gcexoticanimalexpo.com

Pink Dress Benefit 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, The Pillars, 1757 Government Street Mobile, 36604 Join us for the “Pink Dress Benefit” hosted by Heritage Haus on Sunday, July 29 from 2-4 p.m. at The Pillars, 1757 Government Street. The event is to raise funds to benefit the ‘Pink House’ renovations for the Women’s and Children’s program of the Mission of Hope. www.heritagehaus.org Summer Classic Movies 3:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Summer Classic Movie Series - Steel Magnolias 251-208-5600 www.mobilesaenger.com Sunset Concert - Mojazz 6:00 PM West End Beach, Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Sunset Concert featuring Mojazz. townofdauphinisland.org

Sunday July 30

Gulf Coast Exotic Animal Expo ($5, 12 and under free) 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Abba Temple Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, 36619 The Expo will bring you a brilliant bird fair as well as feature other exciting and exotic reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. There will be all the fuzzy, furry, creepy, crawly, cute, cuddly, slinky, slimy and feathered fun that you and your family can handle!

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Support Groups & Classes There’s something for everyone – you can get amazing pets, supplies, and feed or just come hang out and enjoy all the animals and activities. gcexoticanimalexpo.com Kids Studio (Free) 4:00 PM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, 36617 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. Ages 8-13. 251-438-7075 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Cheers to Children ($35) 6:00 PM El Papi , 615 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36602 This event to benefit the Child Advocacy Center is a wine tasting, along with samplings of signature dishes from EL PAPI, a silent and LIVE auction, and Live Music by Harrison McInnis. 251-432-1101 www.cacmobile.org

Tuesday July 31

Kids Studio (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 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. Ages 8-13. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Friday August 3

Bright Beginnings Academy 1st Annual Golf Tournament ($100) 8:00 AM Springhill College Golf Course, 4000 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36608 BBA is pleased to announce that its’ 1st annual Golf Tournament will be held on Friday, August 3, 2018, at Springhill College Golf Course. Registration begins at 7:00 am. Tee off is at 8:00 am. This event is open to anyone. The tournament is a Four-Person Scramble. Prizes will be awarded for 1st place, 2nd place, 3rd place, longest drive, and closest to the pin. There will be door prizes too! 251-525-9105

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

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

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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 * 1-800-4891886 * or estokes@ childrensaid. org.

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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 McKeough Ave., Saraland. For more info or to RSVP contact Chris Gibson. Email Chrisgibson4149@gmail.com, or 251-281-7312. 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 to 7 p.m. (Except major holidays). We meet at The Allen Cox Building Conference Room, 205 Lambert Avenue, Mobile. 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. Call for times and locations. 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

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Support Groups are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader. 251-6892085, amandaLLLmobile@yahoo.com, meghanLLL@ yahoo.com, or michelleLLLmobile@yahoo.com. Facebook: La Leche League Mobile Bay Area. 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. What can you expect? •A place to find support •A comfortable environment to express yourself •A judgement free environment •Resources for grieving Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, please 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. Pre-registration 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. • Gastric Bypass Support Meets every 2nd 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. 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 preregister. • 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. By Appointment. 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 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. USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1069. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Advanced payment required to secure your reservation. If you are expecting multiples or having a c-section, please call for additional class information. • 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. Fee per couple: $30. You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Every other month, 9-2. • Childbirth in a Nutshell: This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets first Tuesday every other month from 6:30-9 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Fee per couple: $15. • Breastfeeding: This one-night class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Class meets second Thursday from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital Fee: $5. Registration Information: Credit card payments are accepted by calling 415-1685. Mail payments for classes to: University of South Alabama, Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Education Department, 1700 Center St., Mobile, AL 36604.

Vacation

Bible Schools Cody Road Seventh Day Adventist Church ad on page 11

1900 Cody Road South, Mobile, AL 36695 Dates: July 9-14 Times: 5:30 pm-8:30 pm Ages: 4 years old to 13 years old Theme: Shipwrecked! Rescued by Jesus Call to register. (251) 633-8141

Covenant Presbyterian Church

2651 Spring Hill Avenue Mobile, 36607 Dates: July 23-25 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: 4-5th Grade Theme: Shipwrecked (251) 298-7055 www.covenantpresmobile.org

Dauphin Way UMC

1507 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36604 Dates: July 16-19 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: 4 yrs by 9/1/17-3rd grade Theme: Jesus Is My Superhero (251) 471-1511 www.dauphinwayumc.org/

First Baptist Tillman’s Corner

5660 Three Notch Rd Mobile, 36619 Dates: July 9-13 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: Completed K-6th grade Theme: Game On (251) 661-0114 www.fbtc.org

Saraland UMC

415 McKeough Avenue Saraland, 36571 Dates: July 9-12 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: Completed K4-5th Grade Theme: Rolling River Rampage - Experience the Ride of a Lifetime with God! (251) 675-2728 www.saralandumc.org

Semmes First Baptist Church

4070 Wulff Road East Semmes, 36575 Dates: July 16-20 Times: 8:00am-12:00pm Theme: Shipwrecked (251) 649-2319 www.semmesfirst.church

Snow Road First Baptist

2370 Snow Road North Semmes, 36575 Dates: July 9-13 Times: 6:00pm-8:30pm Ages: 4 years old-6th grade Theme: Game On! (251) 649-7722 www.srfbc.com

Please send your calendar events to lynn@ mobilebayparents.com.

St. Mary Catholic Parish

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.

July

107 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36618 Dates: July 23-27 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: entering K5 with a limited number of entering PK4 spots Theme: Shipwrecked (251) 432-8679 www.stmarymobile.org

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Incredibles 2

Ocean’s 8

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: C+ Sexual Content: A Profanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The beloved Parr family picks up right where we left off a little over a decade ago. The Underminer (voice of John Ratzenberger) has attacked the city and the Supers’ attempts to save the day have failed... once again. And, again, that means they are considered a threat to the populace. So much so that the government has given up on their funding, and has fired Rick Dicker (Jonathan Banks), the civil servant who protected superheroes when all went wrong. Holed up in a one-star motel, Bob Parr (voice of Craig T. Nelson), wife Helen (voice of Holly Hunter), daughter Violet (voice of Sarah Vowell), son Dash (voice of Huck Milner) and toddler Jack-Jack (voice of Eli Fucile) are dealing with the prospects of homelessness, unemployment and family friction. Yet, there’s still hope for this incredible family. Promoter Winston Deavor and his sister Evelyn (voices of Bob Odenkirk and Catherine Keener) have a long history with Supers and feel they must be allowed to work within society. Using their marketing skills, the pair of siblings launch a PR plan that puts Helen, aka Elastigirl, on center stage as the ideal superhero. On the downside, studies have revealed Bob is far more likely to cause collateral damage during his rescues, leading to negative headlines. So the envious husband is left at home with the kids. Essentially flipping the former story into a Mr. Mom scenario, the movie dives into action sequences with Helen taking on a bad guy who uses TV and other screens to hypnotize the population (a tad ironic, coming from Disney, which is fast becoming the largest media company on the planet). Meanwhile Bob deals with domestic drama. Violet’s crush on Tony (voice of Michael Bird) is being hampered by a need to keep family secrets. Dash is frustrated with trying to learn new math from an old school dad. And after dozing off when reading a bedtime story to his son Jack-Jack (whose abilities are not completely known), the youngster wanders off and has a raucous encounter with a backyard racoon. The divide-to-conquer scenario is similar to the first installment, only last time it was Bob who went off to hunt the villain. In both movies, the most entertaining and engaging part of the script is watching the antics happening at home. In this case, compared to the complex and abstract depiction of the foe faced by Elastigirl, switching back to Mr. Incredible dealing with the pressures of suburbia comes as comic relief in more ways than one. Likely to attract audiences of all ages, parents may be surprised by the intensity of the violence in this movie. A secondary character is shot at point blank range (we see the gun fire but don’t see the bullet’s impact) and mom’s discovery of the villain results in a frenetic scene of Taser-like electrocutions and bright flashes that may cause sensitive audience members discomfort. Also unexpected – and unnecessary – are a few mild profanities, including terms of deity, that just don’t fit the usual Disney/Pixar tone. So do the positives outweigh the negatives? Fortunately, yes, but not to the same extent as the original. The Parr’s still works together, both on and off the job, and the conclusion reinforces the benefits of everyone doing their part. Likewise, there are many humorous moments, especially when Bob visits Edna Mode (once again voiced by writer/director Brad Bird) to get some parenting advice and respite care. However, the film’s unnecessary violence and profanity, along with a complicated plot, makes it far less suitable for children. Perhaps most troubling is the overarching sense that the Parr family’s problems may represent Pixar’s own family troubles. We certainly hope this studio’s stellar track record of incredible family movies may recover and return to its former glory.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: BSexual Content: BProfanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: CWorking the gender reversal theme, Ocean’s 8 attempts to make everything old new again by recycling past templates into a girl power party that exudes more marketing strategy than it does heist intrigue. Remember Danny Ocean? He’s the kingpin of the original movie Ocean’s 11, played by Dean Martin and later George Clooney (Ocean’s 11, Ocean’s 12 and Ocean’s 13). In this franchise sequel we meet his estranged sister, Debbie (Sandra Bullock), who is going to prove she has robbery – and revenge – in her genes. Released from a roughly five year jail sentence, Debbie Ocean schmoozes her way through the parole interview saying she regrets her previous crime, was stupid to get involved with a con artist (Richard Armitage) and just wants to go home and pay her bills. But, on the way “home”, she shoplifts a wardrobe and fakes her way into a posh hotel for the night. The next day, she’s putting together a plan to steal a $150 million Cartier necklace off the neck of celebrity Daphne Kluger (Anne Hathaway) at the uber-swanky annual Met Gala in New York City. Her partner in crime is Lou (Cate Blanchett), who, assuming she really does have the chops to pull off a complicated theft, seems highly underemployed as a con watering down bottles of vodka while waiting for Ocean to show up in her life. Now they need a team, and it’s here where we work through the usual checklist. Security cameras require a computer hacker: Nine Ball (Rihanna). Check! Someone needs to get close to Kluger... how about a fashion designer (Helena Bonham Carter). Check! Who has light enough fingers to nick the necklace? Pickpocketing skateboarder Constance (Awkwafina). Check! And how do we get the diamonds off the necklace and smuggled out from intense security detection? Gem cutter Amita (Mindy Kaling) joins the fray, along with a suburban mom named Tammy (Sarah Paulson) who has past experience fencing stolen goods. Check and double-check! And yes, that only adds up to seven but trust me... there will be eight. In case any teens are intrigued with this story of women swimming in a script replete with luxury brand product placements and way too much concern about nit-picky details, parents will want to note a few other issues -- aside from the fact stealing jewels could have serious life consequences (none of which are portrayed in this movie). The fantastical story depicts a character smoking marijuana (an increasing trend in PG13 movies), along with some verbal nods to pot use. There are profanities throughout, including a single and partial sexual expletive. And a brief sexual scene veers toward a Fifty Shades theme but, fortunately, ends quickly. Offering some comedic moments, Ocean’s 8 flounders as an engaging and entertaining experience. The one “bad guy” isn’t really a focus for much of the movie. Half of the cast end up sitting around in a typical plan-the-job warehouse while the main players cook up the robbery. And just about when you think the film is coming to a rather early conclusion, James Corden appears as an insurance detective in what feels like an appendix bolted on to extend the run time. Unlike the 2016 Ghostbusters reboot, which featured intelligent women who didn’t have to act like men to prove their point, this franchise’s female redo attempts to demonstrate the “Anything he can do, she can do better” cliché. Such rhetoric hardly justifies their actions, nor does it add any depth to this amply-explored movie genre.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2018

www.mobilebayparents.com

Help Alabama

Shine!

The Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) is a joint research project between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Alabama Department of Public Health. Its purpose is to determine why some babies are born healthy and others are not in order to aid in the development and assessment of programs designed to identify high-risk pregnancies and reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes. New mothers are randomly chosen from the state birth registry to participate in PRAMS. Surveys may be returned by mail or completed over the phone. Let your voice be heard!

“Happy to be part of this survey.”

“Thank you for checking on us!”

Actual comments from survey responses.

Moms who complete the PRAMS survey receive their choice of a cooler bag, diapers, or manicure set! Responses are kept confidential to the extent of the law. For more information, please call us at 334-206-2923 or go to alabamapublichealth.gov/PRAMS ADPH does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender, age, religion, disability, genetic information, and other federal, state, or agency regulations and policies. Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies may be directed to Civil Rights Coordinator: ADPH CRC, RSA Tower, 201 Monroe Street, Suite 1010, Montgomery, AL 36104, Tel. 334-206-5226, o r email crcomplaints@adph.state.al.us.