Mobile Bay Parents July 2019 by KeepSharing

July2019 28

Volume 9 Number 4

Columns

Publisher’s Note 4

Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Common Sense Media

Online “camps” to fill your kids’ summer with learning adventures.

When Your Child Throws a Tantrum Seven things to remember.

Kids Health Watch sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

28 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between

76 36

Common Sense Media

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Fun Birthday Parties for Busy Parents Party ideas kids will love.

Birthday Party Guide

All the local resources you need for their big day.

Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

On The Cover Grace Ann, daughter of Lindsay

Departments 6

and Joseph Dyess and little sister to

Bits and Pieces

Clark (9) and Sam (6). Proud grand-

parents are Hazel & Ronald Dyess

School Bits

and Betty & John Frank Clark. Grace Ann loves looking for bunnies with

her brothers and she is obsessed

Family Calendar

with kitty cats and ducks, too!

Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

FromthePublisher

Mobile Bay Mobile Bay’s Foremost Parenting Source

My mom loves the Fourth of July holiday, well really, all patriotic holidays. So much so that several years ago she organized her neighbors to come together and put flags in their front yards during these occasions. They aren’t big expensive flags, just smaller, easy to display flags that create a beautiful wave lining the sidewalks. Her local newspaper and television station even did a story on the patriotic display. It is a fun and meaningful tradition to her that she carries on each year for these special holidays. While patriotic holidays are usually her biggest public displays, she makes a pretty big deal out of all holidays and special occasions. Her front door usually has some seasonal décor and inside you will find trinkets and décor proudly celebrating whatever holiday it may be. This even includes our birthdays. On our birthdays she would decorate the house with streamers and signs so we woke up to a festive home. I can even remember being home for a visit at 24 years old and she still decorated! I loved it! I continue to carry on that tradition with my girls and hope my girls will do the same for their families. I am pretty sure that is where I got my love of birthday celebrations, and why I get so excited about the July Birthday Party Issue each year. If you have birthday to celebrate, then this is your one stop party planner! We kick the issue off with an article from Kimberly Blaker, Fun Birthday Parties for Busy Parents. We have all seen the Pinterest-perfect home birthday parties, but we don’t always have time for a home party. Kimberly gives us some suggestions of party themes, plus places to look for an easy party outside of the house. Goodness knows home parties are fun, but they certainly can be a lot more work, and if you are not careful, more expensive. No matter what kind of celebration you are hosting, you definitely want to check out our Birthday Party Guide on page 36. In the guide you will find places to party, where you can order cakes, treats and supplies, inflatables and other party rental resources, plus all kinds of entertainment you can hire for your party. This is an issue you will want to hold on to all year as you plan all of your special celebrations. While parties are a ton of fun, as parents we all know what too much excitement and too many treats can lead to in our kiddos. That’s right, temper tantrums. Most, if not all, of us have experienced them, and when it happens it can really throw you for a loop. Public tantrums can be embarrassing and frustrating, but as Sarah Lyons mentions in 7 Things to Remember When Your Child Throws a Tantrum, it is normal. To read her tips on what to do during a tantrum, turn to page 30. As we close out another month, I want to wish everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July holiday. I also want to thank all the men, women and families who sacrifice so much and work so hard for our country. God Bless!

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

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

Cover Photography Hannah Stinson www.hannahstinsonphotography.com

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

Lynn

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

lynn@mobilebayparents.com

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Jerk Adolescents? “Because once they turn 12 years old, they turn into jerks for awhile…” I won’t forget those words, spoken to me years ago by the father of a good friend. In all of my naïveté as a young mother, I had asked him why he chose 12 years old to take each of his grandchildren on a special trip. At the time I had four boys under five, so I hadn’t yet grasped this age of adolescence. My world was still consumed with Batman Underoos, matchbox cars and whose turn it was to drive the power wheel. It wasn’t until my oldest turned 12 that those words came racing back into my stream of consciousness like the scream of a siren. Here it comes, “12….jerk….” And though I didn’t experience some kind of cosmic shift on his 12th birthday, what I did notice was my son starting ever so gently to pull away. Year by year, bit by bit, in small subtle ways, I was slowly no longer “his person”. It was never more evident than the day I noticed the picture

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

of him and I together in Yellowstone was no longer his screen saver on his iTouch. (Cry) It was no longer me that he turned to when he needed advice, or a hug, or some of my “sage” counsel. It was me, however, that he still turned to for a grilled cheese sandwich or a baseball uniform that needed the dirt out, or permission to go out with his friends. What I began to realize was that I needed to make adjustments in our relationship just as much as he did. If he was going to grow and shift and get ready for the next stage, then so was I. So instead of hanging on with clenched fists dying at the altar of how things used to be, I figured out where he needed me now and went with it. What I quickly realized was that I needed to be his soft place to land. In a world of middle school drama, temptations and stress, he needed somewhere to be where he could breathe. And when you look at your adolescent through the lens of someone who is struggling to

navigate the rocky ground of life, instead of looking at him through the lens of someone who is just trying to test your patience, you shift your response and there is victory there. So, if you are knocking on the door of having a 12 year old or in the midst of raising an adolescent, just remember, this is normal. This is healthy. This is the process we need them to walk through since we are not trying to raise a 40-yearold who sleeps on our couch. While still under the parental authority of our home, while still under the protection of our presence, we need them to start to stand up. So this process, though admittedly painful at times, is necessary and what they were designed to do. So I say this...Jerk? No. Grown up in the making? Yes. Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior, and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to help mitigate negative behaviors. She travels the state speaking at various conferences on behavior and parenting and is a therapist for Kids To Love Foundation. Sonia is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of whom were internationally adopted, and is also a foster parent.

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Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Celebration

Bay Bites Food Truck Festival

It’s the 50th Anniversary of Apollo 11! On July 16, 1969 Apollo 11 sent three Americans to the moon! Let’s celebrate space science! The Exploreum Science Center will have space themed activities for all ages. Build your own rocket, explore the Star Lab, watch Apollo 11 Mission clips in the Dome Theater and much more. AirBus Foundation Discovery Space Mission to the Moon activities and NASA activities throughout! Don’t miss Animal Tails presentation of Creatures of the Galaxy at 11 AM and 1 PM. Please visit www.exploreum.com for more information.

Join us on Wednesday, July 24 from 5-9 PM at Cooper Riverside Park for Bay Bites Food Truck Festival. Hosted by Mobile Baykeeper's Young Advisory Council (YAC) Leadership Committee, Bay Bites is an annual food truck festival benefiting our work for clean water, clean air, and healthy communities. Enjoy delicious food from the area's best local food trucks, craft beer and wine, live music, lawn games, and a variety of kids’ entertainment options to come on the beautiful riverfront of downtown Mobile. For more information, please visit www.mobilebaykeeper.org/bay-bites.

6th Annual Kids Day

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 6th Annual Kids Day, "Under the Sea," is Saturday, July 27, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Tillman's Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Road. A day of FREE fun and activities that the whole family can enjoy. There'll be games, prizes, free food, inflatables, face painting, laser tag, Kona, a special live appearance by Ariel, and so much more. Bring a canned food item for admission. Please call 251-666-2488 for information.

4th Annual Love U Love U Day

The RAIN Group is happy to announce the 4th Annual Love U Love U Day, to be held on Saturday, July 27 from Noon to 5:00 PM at The Grounds. Love U Love U Day is a free event. Love U Love U stands for Love Unconditional (love without expectations no matter your gender, economic status, race, sexuality, or religion), and Love Unlimited (love continually without boundaries of time or space). We will unify in prayer that honors God and focus on the Love the binds us all, despite our differences. School shoes, uniforms, supplies, and socks will be given away to anyone in need. Come out and enjoy free food, games, music, and great door prizes. Physicians will be onsite providing free medical, dental, vision, and mental screens and exams for kids, parents, and seniors. The Mobile Sports Hall of Fame will have members on site signing autographs. Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

Cheers to Children to benefit Child Advocacy Center Williams Financial Groupwill present Cheers to Children, hosted by EL PAPI, 615 Dauphin St. This benefit for the Child Advocacy Center will be held on Monday, July 29 from 6:00 - 8:30 PM. The event will feature samplings of EL PAPI signature dishes and wines to taste, along with a select live and silent auction. Music will be provided by Harrison McInnis. Ticket cost is $35 each and are available at the CAC. Call 432-1101 for details.

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The City of Mobile Prepares for Spectacular July 4th Celebration

The City of Mobile will celebrate America’s 243rd birthday on Thursday, July 4, in scenic Cooper Riverside Park. Activities will include live music, outdoor family fun, food (available for purchase), and much more. Park gates open at 2 p.m. Mardi Gras Park will also be available for picnicking, outdoor fun and viewing the fireworks show. At 7 p.m., the Mobile Symphonic Pops Band will begin their concert featuring traditional patriotic songs and other favorite tunes. At 9 p.m. there will be a fireworks extravaganza on the Mobile River sponsored by the City of Mobile. At 9:15 p.m., Emerge Show & Band concludes the day’s celebration in GulfQuest’s amphitheater playing Top 40, Funk, Motown, Blues, R&B. At GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico, familyfriendly festivities for all ages will take place from 2-9 p.m. Enjoy multiple activities on the Riverfront Promenade overlooking the Mobile River to keep the entire family entertained, including an inflatable Tropical Water Slide for children. For only $5 per child, attendees will enjoy unlimited access to this massive water slide, so be sure to bring your towel and sunscreen. Activities will be located outside on the Riverfront Promenade. In addition to the outdoor festivities, GulfQuest National Maritime Museum exhibits will be open from 2-7 p.m. with a $5 per person admission. Guests can enjoy 90 interactive exhibits, simulators, theaters and displays. Exhibit galleries are housed on a life-sized replica of a container ship and are located throughout eight decks in the 90,000 sq. ft. museum. $5 per person tickets for the waterslide or exhibit admission may be purchased via the following links: Waterslide: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-gulfquest-4th-of-july-celebrationwaterslide-tickets-61244876073 Exhibits: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-gulfquest-4th-of-july-celebration-exhibitsaccess-tickets-61242712602

Birthday Party Adventure "Join us for an unforgettable one and a half hour birthday party boat ride aboard the Duke! The boat ride includes pulling a shrimp net and putting the catch in our touch tank aquarium. The passengers are allowed to touch and explore the catch! Kids and adults love this trip! Our "Basic Birthday Party Adventure" starts at $255 for up to 42 guests. We provide the ice chests, ice, paper plates, napkins, spoons, and a gift for the guest of honor. Additional party packages are available on our website. Guests searching for an all-inclusive option can add food, drinks, and party favors."

The Duke departs from Dauphin Island Marina, which is located at 650 LeMoyne Drive, Dauphin Island. www.actionoutdoors.org; reservations@actionoutdoors.org. Dauphin Island Marina

251-861-2201

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Saenger Theatre Summer Classic Movie Series

This summer, Mobile Saenger Theatre will showcase classic hit movies the way they were meant to be seen: larger-than-life on the glorious BIG screen with a brand-new HD laser projector that will make the viewing experience better than ever before! The Summer Classic Movie Series will run Sundays at 3 PM, from July 14 to August 18. Tickets are $6 for adults; $3 for children 12 & under and seniors (60+) and can be purchased at either the Saenger Theatre Box Office or at the Mobile Civic Center Box Office. The Saenger Box Office will open at 12:30 p.m. on the day of the movie. Tickets cannot be purchased online or by phone. This year’s Summer Classic Movie Series schedule is as follows: • July 14 – “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” • July 21 – “A Star is Born” (1976) • July 28 – “Dirty Dancing” • Aug. 4 – “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” • Aug. 11 – “Purple Rain” or “Saturday Night Fever” * • Aug. 18 – “Singin’ in the Rain” *Patrons will have the opportunity to choose the August 11 movie screening through a poll on the Saenger’s Facebook page. The poll will be open from 10 a.m. on Monday, May 20 through midnight on Monday, May 28.

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Playhouse-in-the-Park presents Lionel Bart's "Oliver"

Mobile's Playhouse-in-the-Park presents Lionel Bart's "Oliver", the Broadway musical based on Charles Dickens' timeless novel. A great show for all ages with classic tunes including "Food, Glorious Food!, “Where is Love”, “Consider Yourself”, "You've Got to Pick a Pocket or Two", “As Long as He Needs Me”. Oliver will run on weekends, July 19-August 11, 2019. Reservations online at http://playhouseinthepark.org/box-office or call 251-602-0630.

Eggs with a Side of Jazz

Family Promise of Coastal Alabama invites you to join them for "Eggs with a Side of Jazz". This ticketed event will be held Saturday, August 10, from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Bellingrath Hall, Central Presbyterian Church, 1260 Dauphin Street. Attendees will enjoy a delicious brunch accompanied by jazz music featuring The Jazz Studio. Tickets are $35 and available for purchase at www.Eventbrite.com. Proceeds benefit Family Promise of Coastal Alabama. Family Promise of Coastal Alabama provides shelter and nurturing support for children and their families who are struggling through homelessness. They not only provide shelter but assist families in identifying issues that led to their homelessness. Family Promise of Coastal Alabama provides education in budgeting, parenting, anger management, and employment readiness to help families find their way. With a new arsenal of skills and the right support, families secure and maintain safe, stable housing with an 85 % success rate. For more information visit www.FamilyPromiseMobile.org

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July Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday

Alabama’s 14th annual sales tax holiday for school-related items begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 19, and ends at midnight Sunday, July 21, giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, books and clothing free of the state’s four percent sales or use tax. All of this information including a downloadable poster, cities/counties that are participating, guidelines on what is and is not included and even more information can be found at: alabamaretail.org/resources/salestaxholidays/back-to-school/ Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

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Sunny Side Theater presents “James and The Giant Peach Jr.”

Sunny Side Theater presents “James and The Giant Peach Jr.” July 19 at 5 and 7 PM at the Laidlaw Performing Arts Center. The show will be the culmination of a week-long musical theater intensive taught by award-winning director Dr. Lamar Bagley from Washington DC. There is still space in the camp if anyone wants to be part of this magical experience. Call Chris at 251-510-1808 to sign up for camp or get tickets to the show!

When only spectacular will do! JU

Free Meals for Children this Summer

Feeding the Gulf Coast is partnering with local community organizations to offer free meals to children, 18 and under, in lower Alabama this summer through the Summer Meals Program. The program is supported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and is designed to fill the nutritional gap that is left when children are out of school during summer months and do not have access to free or reduced price breakfasts and lunches at school. This program has a significant impact on children and families during the summer months in lower Alabama and across the Central Gulf Coast. To learn more about the Summer Meals Program and find a site in your community, visit the food bank’s website at https://www. feedingthegulfcoast.org/learn-more/ourprograms/child-nutrition-programs or text “FOOD” to 877-877.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

A Breakdown of Jaundice Jaundice is a peculiar word that all parents have probably come across at some point, especially if they have a newborn. As often as parents have heard the word, many may not understand what doctors and nurses mean when referring to it. A simple medical definition of jaundice is too much bilirubin circulating in the bloodstream. Let’s break that down a little further, and discuss what parents of newborns should watch for concerning jaundice. Red blood cells (RBC) circulate through your body and carry oxygen to all the cells that make up the body’s organs. The RBC can pick up as many as 4 oxygen molecules through their pass in the lungs, and then the heart pumps those RBC out to the rest of the body. Before a baby is born, it’s only getting a fraction of the oxygen to the body– because the mother’s body takes some of the oxygen for herself. Therefore, an unborn baby needs to make more RBC to carry enough oxygen to the rest of the body. The second a baby is born and takes that first, big breath, all of this changes. Suddenly

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

the baby can get lots of oxygen, and each RBC now can pick up close to 4 oxygen molecules– so the baby’s body tells itself it doesn’t need quite so many RBC. This is where bilirubin comes into play! As RBC die, they release bilirubin, which is an orange-yellow pigment. This is a daily process in all humans– at any age– but in newborns, it happens much faster. The liver has an essential job here: to rid the body of bilirubin in a form that can be excreted. In other words, by turning it into poop. Sometimes, a newborn’s liver can get overwhelmed, and simply can’t handle so much bilirubin at once. As bilirubin levels build, the skin may turn yellow, causing the condition known as jaundice. So what does this mean for parents of little newborns? Doctors want new parents to watch for a couple things after leaving the hospital. If newborns are having difficulty eating, if they’re difficult to wake up, or if they seem very irritable, the bilirubin level may be rising. If a baby’s bilirubin reaches a certain level, doctors

will usually order phototherapy, which breaks down bilirubin in the blood to a form that can be excreted through the urine as well. Parents shouldn’t hesitate to call on their pediatrician if they spot any of the warning signs mentioned above. It’s also worth noting that it is important to make sure newborns are eating well, as too much weight loss can worsen jaundice and cause other problems. There are so many new and exciting things that happen in those first days after a newborn’s birth. I hope this explains some of the nuances of a common term that is often misunderstood– and now you know why to watch those sweet, yellow newborns closely! 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

Mobile Christian School Welcomes New Principal

McGill-Toolen Catholic Senior Award Winners

Mobile Christian School is excited to welcome Mr. John Evers as Middle School Principal. John Evers joins Dr. Deborah Curry, Elementary Principal and Mr. Clint Mitchell, High School Principal. Mr. Evers is an incredible addition to the MCS family and we are thrilled to have him.

Father Norman Blesses St. Luke’s Seniors Each St. Luke's senior was blessed individually by Father Bailey Norman during our Baccalaureate Service. Father Bailey wanted to send each graduate away with a blessing as they begin their new journey.

Congratulations to McT seniors who received the following awards. Pictured, from left to right: Front Row: Griffin Dumont, Ideal Graduate; Emily Doyle, Salutatorian; Damia Scott, Toolen Award; Kenya McQuirter, Student Athlete; Mary Alice Jouve, Valedictorian; Rachel Forbes, Distinguished Service Award; Cecilia Florey, Kaitlin Marie Overstreet Spirit Award; Caroline Hamilton, Distinguished Service Award. Back Row: David Dolan, Student Athlete; George Cowles, Distinguished Service Award; Dylan Petrie, Paul Joseph Bueche Service to God and Country Award; Edward Charnock, McGill Award; Connor Bishop, Ideal Graduate; Brendan Reilly, Kaitlin Marie Overstreet Spirit Award; Liam Tully, Salutatorian.

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

Prichard Prep Celebrates End of Year with Swim Party

CHCA Spanish Students Read to Church Campus Spanish Classes

Classes not having a formal End of the Year program were treated to some well-deserved food and fun! Thank you, Coach McDade, for making this a very special day for these students who will have a lifetime of memories! #SchoolsOutForSummer! #PPSRocks!

Members of the Cottage Hill Christian Academy high school Spanish classes enjoyed visiting with and reading to the Spanish classes at the CHCA Church Campus. Mrs. Morgan’s high school Spanish read stories they wrote to Mr. Cazalas’ 1st grade Spanish students. Fue un día divertido (It was a fun day).

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Autauga County Schools Burns Student’s Artwork on Display in

Perfect Attendance Lunch at Allentown

Students earning Perfect Attendance for the year at Allentown Elementary were treated to a lunch of pizza and cupcakes by Principal Mrs. Ashtiny Roberts and Assistant Principal, Mrs. Connie Krist.

Montgomery

Art Teacher, Melissa Stuart is proud to announce that Ashley Ward won 2nd place in the Alabama State Superintendent's Show. Fynley Isaak's coopertooling painted canvas piece will be showing in Montgomery from March 2019-March 2020. In the Visual Arts Achievement Contest, Elyjah Boria won a Blue Ribbon at the County level and showed his piece in Montgomery during March and April 2019. Also, Tri Pham won an honorable mention at the County level.

Davidson Student Named 2020 Distinguished Young Woman

MGM Named Top Finishing High School Fishing Team

MGM’s fishing team was recognized as the 2018 – 2019 top finishing high school fishing team by the Alabama Bass Federation, Inc. The fishing team was also presented a $3000 performance grant from the City of Semmes. In addition to their success as a team, angler Brandon Lee received a fishing scholarship to Faulkner University. Congratulations to coaches Chris and Sheila Lee and the MGM and Semmes Middle School anglers.

For the first time in 36 years, a Davidson High School warrior is the 2020 winner of the Distinguished Young Women of Mobile County. Maria Joy Moxey, an International Baccalaureate Diploma candidate, won the local Distinguished Young Women competition. In addition to the title, she received scholarships for winning the talent, interview, scholastic, fitness, on-stage presentation, and community service finalist categories bringing her DYW winnings to over $629,000 total in-kind scholarships and $2,800 in cash scholarships. She will represent Mobile County at the Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama program in Montgomery in January 2020. At Davidson, Maria is a member of the Kinetics Dance Company.

Causey Archers Compete in Nationals in Kentucky

Causey’s Archery Team competed in the State tournament on April 5. Congratulations to Emilie McConnell and Hayden Malone for qualifying for Nationals in Kentucky in May! Hayden was also the very top scorer in the 3D shooting competition! This is a huge accomplishment for both of these students!

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

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Semmes Middle School’s Drama Club Presents “The Addams Family”

Semmes Middle School, under the direction of Jenie Hansen and Taylor Gray, presented “The Addams Family” Young@Part by Theatrical Rights. The all-star cast included, Standing from Left to Right: Amelie Wilson, Haley Landrum, Jade Dickey, Grace Alcudia, Keirsten Knapp, Edyn Davis, Mackenzie Lawshe, Kahalli Shaw-Watson, Ashlynn Megginson, Breanna Robertson, Adrian Forister, Morgan Sims, and Rahin Andrus. Sitting from Left to Right: Amber Herring, Zarah Roberts, Abby McKenna, Alexandria Tillman, Hannah Kline, Christina Hyatt, Annabella Tillman, James Smith, and Zalysa Purifoy.

Local Irish Dancers Compete in New Orleans Several members of the Maccrossan School of Irish Dance of Mobile recently competed at an Irish dancing competition, called a feis, on May 25th in New Orleans. Each of these dancers was awarded with a certificate, medals, and trophies for accomplished dancing. Pictured are Molly Dudley and Emma Moore, Gabby Mills, and Lena Andrews. Not pictured, Beckett Buckridge.

E.R. Dickson Participates in 2019 Special Olympics

Congratulations to the following E.R. Dickson students who attended Special Olympics on Friday, April 12 and placed in their categories: Jaynayaliz Rivera - 1st place in 50 meter run and 3rd place in the softball throw. Cody Norwood (not pictured) - 1st place in softball throw, and 3rd place in the 50 meter run. Aidyn Jackson-Braggs - 5th place in softball throw and 6th place in 50 meter run.

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Autauga County Schools

Little Flower Catholic School Students Visit Naval Air Museum

CHCA Honors Class of 2019

Students from Little Flower Catholic School had a blast on their field trip to the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola. They visited the museum, watched an IMAX movie on the history of flight, and even got to see the Blue Angels fly!

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The graduation ceremony for the Cottage Hill Christian Academy Graduation for the Class of 2019 was held at Cottage Hill Baptist Church on May 24.The commencement address was delivered by Rear Admiral Phillip “Endel” Lee, Jr., Deputy Chief of Chaplains for Reserve Matters. The CHCA Class of 2019 was awarded over $5.9 million in merit-based scholarships. We are excited to see what God has planned for the CHCA Class of 2019.

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

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Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

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

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St. Pius X Takes 1st Place in Aqua Robotics Competition St. Pius X Catholic School placed first in the Scout Division of the Northern Gulf Coast Regional ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) Competition on Sunday, April 28, following two days of competition. The ten-member team, consisting of 7th and 8th graders, competed against 14 other teams coming from as far away as Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida and Texas. The team successfully completed a total of six underwater maneuvers with their ROV. St. Pius was the only school from Mobile County, and one of only two Catholic schools, to participate in the event. Mr. Mike McElroy is the teacher advisor of the SPX Robotics Team.

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St. Mary Catholic Explores Planet Rotation in McT Science Lab!

St. Mary Catholic School 6th graders recently walked across the street to visit McGill-Toolen Catholic High School for science experiments on gravity and their relation to the rotation of the moon and planets. Science teachers, St. Mary's Dr. Gia Johnson and McGill-Toolen's Dr. Lisa Griffin, assisted by McGill-Toolen Seniors, conducted the experiments with the students. The students were also welcomed by McGillToolen officials for a tour of the school.

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North Mobile Christian Donates Can Tabs to Ronald McDonald House

Autauga County Schools

Faith Academy Sends Team to Africa

Thank you, North Mobile Christian School! A little over 8 gallons of can tabs were donated to the Ronald McDonald House! They were very appreciative and thankful to all of you for helping in the collection of these tabs!

A Faith Academy sent a team of teachers, administrators, students and alumni to minister and serve in Daboase, Ghana. The team went to equip and encourage the teachers at Faith Academy International School. They were able to share teaching resources, do service projects and love on the people of Ghana. Pictured is the Faith staff with the staff of Faith Academy International. To God be the glory!

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

Eichold-Mertz Girl Scouts Ready for Next Adventure

Eichold-Mertz Magnet School is honored to have had these girls be part of our school since Kindergarten, 1st and/or 2nd grade. Madeline Borchert started in Kindergarten, Lena Andrews and Ria Amtha started in 1st grade and Rachel Guillotte started in 2nd grade. These girls were recently inducted into the National Elementary Honor Society on April 30. Madeline was President, Lena was Vice President and Ria was the Secretary. In order to be inducted into the Eichold-Mertz Magnet NEHS, a student must have a 3.6 GPA and have no disciplinary issues including office referral and/or suspension. Inductees must also complete a community service project. These girls were also involved in several clubs at Eichold-Mertz Magnet, including S.T.E.M. Club and STEM Competition Team, Safety Patrol, Robotics, Archery, Technology Team, and Math Team. Madeline Borchert was the School-Wide Spelling Bee winner and Student Council President, Rachel Guillotte was 3rd runner-up in raising money for Jump Rope for Heart and was also named the â&#x20AC;&#x153;It Starts with Usâ&#x20AC;? student for Eichold-Mertz Magnet. These girls may have excelled academically and been involved with several clubs at school but they were also involved with Girl Scouts. All the girls, except Madeline, joined Girl Scouts in Kindergarten/1st grade as Daisies in different troops. However, by 2nd grade, all of them ended up in the same Girl Scout troop, where their adventures as Brownies began. In Troop 8363, these girls have enjoyed many adventures while earning pins and badges. Some of their favorite memories of the past years are the Yard Sale/Bake Sale; building boats from recycled materials, racing them and winning; camping at Scoutshire Woods, Gulf Quest and the Exploreum; tent camping at the Audubon Zoo; and beach house sleepovers, where they made notebooks, cooked their own meals, and drew pictures of seagulls. They enjoyed many activities at Girl Scout camp (Scoutshire Woods) like zip lining, canoeing, boating, arts/crafts, archery, games, and sing-alongs around the campfire. They recently earned their Bronze Award, which required 20 hours of community service. For the Bronze Award, they raised money to purchase supplies for the Mobile Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). They had a Yard Sale and a Bake Sale then used the money they made to purchase supplies needed for the Mobile SPCA. They also have received many different badges. These girls have recently completed Juniors and are ready to take on their next adventure, Cadettes. Go luck and we will miss you, Madeline, Lena, Ria, and Rachel. Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

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Annual Career Day at St. Dominic

St. Dominic Catholic School’s guidance counselor, Dr. Hayes, hosted her Annual Career Day where parents joined students in the classrooms to discuss their professions. Pictured are Sophie Ward with Corporal Ben Towarnyckyj. Many thanks to all of our parents who took time to speak with our students!

Covenant Christian Athletes of the Year and Valedictorian

Congratulations to Maggie B. and Jonathan R. for being awarded “Athlete of the Year” for Covenant Christian School’s 2018-19 school year! Also, an extra special congratulations to Jonathan R. for being chosen as Valedictorian of the 8th grade graduating class! We are so proud of the two of you.

Mobile Christian Campaign Raises Money for New Elementary Building

During the fall semester, Mobile Christian School hosted a “Student Day of Giving.” This campaign was in support of the new elementary building. Students that participated in this campaign were able to leave their mark on the building by signing their name to beams that will be visible in two elementary classrooms. Thank you to the 650+ students that gave.

Causey Student Places 4th in State Science Fair

Congratulations to Causey Middle School’s Haleigh Hartman for placing 4th in the State Science Fair!

St. Mary Catholic “Frozen” Stars!

St. Mary Catholic School 6th grade classes supported three fellow students who performed in the recent Joe Jefferson Players production of "Frozen"! Anna Louise McAleer, Anna Catherine Thompson, and Aashirya Clark were the performers and are also members of St. Mary Catholic School's Drama Club.

New Kindergarten Teacher at Little Flower Catholic School

Retiring kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Cathy Wagner, has passed the baton to her successor, Miss Alex Lilly. Mrs. Wagner has loved her 37 years teaching kindergarten, and now she said she looks forward to traveling to visit with family members who are scattered around the country. Excitement and enthusiasm for the new job are motivations for Miss Lilly this summer. She said she can't wait to meet her new students and settle in as a faculty member at Little Flower Catholic School.

Saechang, CHCA Principal of the Day

St. Ignatius Alumni Ordained to Diaconate

St. Ignatius alumni Deacon Connor Plessala and Deacon Peyton Plessala were Ordained to the Diaconate on June 1 at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception. St. Ignatius is proud of these young men who have pledged their lives to the service of the Church. Next year these young men will join the Church as priests and will serve in the Archdiocese of Mobile as parish priests. They are pictured here with Fr. Bry Shields at the Ordination Brunch that was held in their honor at St. Ignatius.

Caleb Saechang had a productive day as the Cottage Hill Christian Academy Church Campus Principal of the Day. His 1st order of business was to allow teachers to wear spirit attire. After settling in to Mr. Sandefur’s office, Caleb led the morning pledges and announcements, had silly string fun with fellow 3rd graders, and a business lunch with Coach Richardson, Mr. Sandefur, and a board member. He finished his day by talking with and handing out candy to middle schoolers. It is great to be a Warrior!

St. Luke’s Student to Play Baseball for William Carey College Congrats to St. Luke's student, John David Neutze, for signing to play baseball with William Carey College. We are so proud of you, J.D.!

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Autauga County Schools

Mayor Congratulates McT Baseball Team on Winning State Championship

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The McGill-Toolen Catholic 7A Alabama State Championship Baseball Team had the privilege of attending the City Council meeting recently with Mayor Sandy Stimpson, City Councilman John C. Williams, who is also a baseball parent, and other members of our City Council. The team was recognized for their successful season and for winning their first-ever State Championship!

St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Class of 2019 Grads

Congrats to St. Luke's Class of 2019! Immediately after the commencement ceremony, our graduates continued the tradition of exiting the front gates as students for the last time. St. Luke's students enter the gates as 9th graders and do not use these gates again until graduation.

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St. Ignatius Students Inducted into Order of St. Ignatius

St. Ignatius 8th grade students and Religious Education students were inducted into the Order of St. Ignatius in May. The Order of St. Ignatius is the beginning of the Confirmation process which will end their Junior year of high school. The process of Confirmation will include study and service for three years before they are finally confirmed.

UMS-Wright Class of 2019

We are so proud of the Class of 2019 and all of their many accomplishments! Now, go and do great things! • 93% received scholarships • 42% of students scored a 30 or higher on the ACT • Accepted to 55 different schools • 43 Superior Ratings for Band & Chorus at the State Level • 10,702 service hours accumulated in four years • 4 athletes going on to play at the next level • 2 Marching Bulldogs playing in collegiate bands • 1 violinist playing in a collegiate orchestra • 17 athletic championships in four years.

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Autauga County Schools Spring Has Sprung at Prichard Prep!

Another PPS Field Day is in the books. It wouldn't have happened without our dedicated PTO and volunteers including students representing the Kappa League, Blount and LeFlore High Schools. A very special shout-out to Coach McDade - she rocked it this year! As you can see the students had a blast. There was dancing, sack races, obstacle course races, food, fun and much, much more! Thank you to all of the friends and family who took time to share this fun day with their loved ones! #SpringFling #PPSEagles #NachosAreAwesome

Please email School News and Photos to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

Buddy Benches at Allentown

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Fourth grade students in Mrs. Danielle White’s class at Allentown Elementary participated in a service project to raise funds to purchase “Buddy Benches” for the school playground and in front of the school. The students made “Buddy Bracelets” and sold them to the faculty, staff and students. Mrs. White’s class raised enough funds to purchase three “Buddy Benches” for the school.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

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St. Ignatius Graduates Receive Scholarships to McGill-Toolen

St. Ignatius graduates Brooks Gibson and Stephen Hodges were awarded scholarships at McGillToolen at the Foundation Scholarship breakfast in May. Both students will be freshmen at McGillToolen fall 2019. Brooks Gibson was awarded the Harris-Sharp Scholarship. Stephen Hodges was awarded the Susan Duffey Leadership Award and the St. Augustine Scholarship. The St. Augustine Scholarship is a four year scholarship for incoming freshmen.

Marian Honors Program 8th Grade Awards

The St. Mary Catholic Marian Honors Program for students who excel in academic areas in all of the core subjects. The Marian Honors Program is offered to students in grades 3 through 8 and requires students to independently complete enrichment or accelerated projects outside of the regular curriculum. This year's 8th grade recipients are recognized for their projects in the academic area of Literature and include medalists, Maddie Sansbury, Nick Hewitt, and Mallory Giardina.

Semmes Middle School Named Mobile County Champs

Semmes Middle School is so proud of our 2019 Mobile County Champions! Pictured, Back Row L-R – Coach Mills, Kaden Harrell, Ryder Lowery, Bret Warren, Tanner Finlay, Jared Hollins, Mason Waltman, Brody Tuinder, Coach Hayaski; Middle Row L-R – Samuel Nunn, Reed Mety, Camron Laffitte, Justin Friend, Carter Williamson, Camden West, Conner Bolick; Front Row L-R – Brayden Mecom, Turner Collins, Ward Chisholm, J. D. Wheeler, Koen Wilson, Andrew Tart.

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Autauga County Schools

MGM Softball Player Chosen to Play in North South All-Star Game

St. Pius Students Take Ride in Open Cockpit Bi-Plane

MGM sophomore Eleissa “Scooter” Everett has been chosen to play shortstop in the North South All-Star Softball to be played in Montgomery on July 17. Scooter, who has been playing softball for 13 years, stated this honor has shown her that hard work pays off and the work you put in every day will get you somewhere when you continuously put in effort. She credits her success to the support of her coaches and teammates. In addition to being selected to play in the North South All-Star Softball Game, Scooter was also selected for the All-County team, Kiwanis Athlete of the Week, and MGM’s Offensive MVP for the 2018 season. Scooter also plays volleyball and is a member of both the National Honor Society and MGM’s leadership program. After high school, Scooter plans to play softball in college while pursuing a degree in the medical field. Congratulations Scooter and good luck!

St. Pius X third graders watch their classmates take flight. Two lucky St. Pius X 3rd graders had the opportunity to ride in an open cockpit bi-plane that was used in WWII to train fighter pilots. The flight originated out of Roy E. Ray Airport in Irvington. The flight was an auction item from the St. Pius X A Night to Remember Live and Silent Auction. As part of the flight, the girls were able to invite their classmates to watch their flight and to tour the facilities.

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St. Ignatius Open Enrollment

Discover the many ways that St. Ignatius Catholic School educates the whole child through mind, body and spirit. Call today for a private tour.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

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MGM Teacher Wins National Award

Autauga County Schools

Congratulations to Ms. Virginia Hall, MGM science teacher, for being awarded the Robert E. Yager Foundation Excellence in Teaching Award by the National Science Teachers Association. Ms. Hall began her teaching career in Miami 25 years ago. Since then, she has taught various science classes in two states at four public and two private schools. She has previously been awarded the NGS Outstanding Earth Science Teacher (Alabama), NGS/NESTA, 2016 – 2017 American Chemical Society (ACS): Mobile Section Chemistry Teacher of the Year, ACS, 2011 – 2010; DCCTM Mathematics Teacher of the Year for Private Schools, DCCTM/Allison Academy, 1998 – 1997. In order to compete for this prestigious award, Ms. Hall completed 23 pages of self-reflections, lesson plans, and photos of classroom activities. As this year’s winner, she received an all-expenses paid trip to the NSTA conference where she presented on how she integrates technology in her classroom. She received an additional $1000 and a beautiful plaque along with the national recognition of her accomplishments. Ms. Hall would like to thank her family, colleagues, administrations, and supervisor for their love, support, and assistance throughout this process.

Corpus Christi Teacher Retires after 43 Years of Teaching

The end of the school year at Corpus Christi Catholic School brought the end to a long and dedicated teaching career. Mrs. Julie Brannon retired! She has been a teacher for 43 years. Mrs. Brannon started her career at Corpus Christi in 1976 but took time off when her children were born. She returned to Corpus Christi and has been a full-time teacher for the last 25 years. Congratulations to Mrs. Brannon on her retirement!

St. Pius Students Take Field Trip to Louisiana

St. Pius X eighth graders spent an afternoon in the swamps of Louisiana looking for alligators as part of the annual 8th grade New Orleans field trip. Prior to their visit to the swamps, the SPX students spent the morning visiting New Orleans.

Allentown Honor Parade

St. Dominic Honor Band Performs for Mobile Catholic Schools

Students at Allentown enjoy participating in the school’s Honor Parade to celebrate their academic success.

St. Dominic Catholic School Honor Band students enjoyed traveling to the different Catholic Schools in Mobile showcasing the songs they learned this school year. The Honor band includes students from fifth through eighth grades who earned a spot during auditions.

Corpus Christi Catholic School Teacher of the Year

Congratulations the Teacher of the Year, 2019 at Corpus Christi Catholic School - Ms. Robin Barto! She was honored at the final school Mass of the year. Ms. Barto is the middle school social studies teacher and she has been a teacher in Catholic schools for 15 years. She started her teaching career at Corpus Christi in 2004 and taught there until 2008. For the next 6 years, she was a teacher at another school, then returned to Corpus Christi in 2014. Ms. Barto makes learning history exciting for middle school students. This is her "superpower" and that's why she is Corpus Christi's Teacher of the Year! Ms. Barto is pictured with her family.

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St. Dominic Students Make First Holy Communion

Autauga County Schools

Congratulations to all of our St. Dominic Catholic School second grade students who made their First Holy Communion. May they know the peace of Jesus, today and always. Pictured are James and Bradley Seiter.

Faith Academy Class of 2019 Graduates

Congratulations Faith Academy class of 2019. There were 114 graduates, 63% of them received scholarships, 79 will be going to 4 year universities or colleges and almost half the class graduated with a 4.0 or higher weighted GPA. Way to go Rams! May your life bring glory and honor to Him! #faithstrong

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

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Covenant Christian Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 8th Grade Graduating Class of 2019

Graduates, we are proud of all your hard work and the influence youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve left in our lives and the lives of your fellow students. We will miss your bright smiles and personalities around campus but we wish you the best in this new season of life!

Mobile Christian Grads!

Congratulations Mobile Christian School class of 2019! These graduates received over $6.6 million dollars in scholarships. We wish each of these students the best as they begin the next chapter!

Prichard Prep Celebrates Kindergarten Graduation

Prichard Preparatory School recently held the Kindergarten Graduation ceremony. Parents, family and friends were on campus to celebrate the accomplishments of these sweet children. We had two very special guests, Dr. Ruby Eldridge, Co-Founder of Prichard Prep, and Mrs. Butler. Thank you all for being there! The ceremony began with the Processional and the students singing "One Small Voice" and "First Grade, First Grade" to the tune of "New York, New York, a crowd favorite! Next, our Kindergarten teachers, Mrs. Crabtree and Mrs. Smith, gave out their student awards. Additional awards were given by Coach McDade for P. E., Ms. DuPriest for Spanish and Mrs. King for Music. Graduation diplomas were awarded to each student by Dr. Dodge, Principal, and the ceremony ended with a slide show and student Kalvin Moore giving the dismissal prayer. Our awesome PTO provided light refreshments after the program. These students have grown so much and are sooooo ready for first grade! Good job everyone!

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E.R. Dickson Millionaires

Autauga County Schools

Congratulations to our E.R. Dickson Millionaires. Principal, Mrs. Katryna Kinn and Assistant Principal, Ms. Stacey Wilcox, presented nine students with the Millionaire award at the End of the Year Accelerated Reader Ceremony on May 13. These students read over a million words through the Renaissance Accelerated Reader Program. The following students received a trophy and a book to read over the summer: Cydney Garrett, Lexington Bush, Elizabeth Bunkley, Caydon Pitt, Neshwan Arif, Bin Yang, Alexander Meola, Olivia Mendoza, and Conrad Otts.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

UMS-Wright Golf & Tennis Teams Win State Titles!

The Spring was very busy for our athletic teams! In April, the UMS-Wright Girls' Tennis Team clinched the 6A State Championship Title for the 11th year in a row! This win marked 14 overall championships for Coach Meridy Jones! In May, the Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Golf Team won the 5A state title for the 4th year in a row. Also, the Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Golf Team placed runner-up. Individually, JP Cave and Lauren Gilchrist were the 5A and 6A Individual Champions.

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Semmes Middle School Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Basketball Team Division 3A and Mobile County Champions 2018 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2019

Congratulations to Naja Southall-#4, Carlneshia Harris-Porter-#5, Tyara Westbrook-#10, Maraya Fields-#11, Amyriah Richard-#12, Daysha Broughton-#13, Daveshia Tarvin-#22, Ivy Klezmer-#23, Malaishia Golston-#24, Madison Jenkins- #25, Angel Goldman-#30, Loralee Faulkner-#33, India Wells#54, Zoe Hayes- Manager, Matthew Jenkins-Videographer, Jacqueline Cole-Scorer, Andrew Ratliff-Assistant Coach, Demetria R. McMillan-Head Coach. 15-1!

McGill-Toolen Class of 2019

McGill-Toolen Catholic High Class of 2019 Valedictorian, Mary Alice Jouve, was the first student to receive her diploma from Archbishop Rodi. Mary Alice will attend Princeton in the fall. The class of 2019 was offered $18.5 million in scholarships this year!

Davidson Freshman Get Head Start on Computing Skills

The DHS Computing Camp kicked off learning for the 2019-2020 year! This camp is exclusive to students entering the 9th grade at Davidson in either the EPIC or IB program. Students learned some basics of programming from both Davidson and University of South Alabama instructors. A big thank you to AT&T for their generous donation that made this possible!

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Online “Camps” Fill Kids’ Summer with Learning Adventures If managing your kids’ summer schedules is running you ragged, you may want to consider the online option. Apps, websites, and even full-fledged virtual camps offer a wide range of summer learning opportunities, and can provide the ideal activity during a “staycation” or a fill-in between other activities. Online learning also gives kids something unique: individual attention. You, a babysitter, a grandparent, or even an older sibling act as virtual camp counselors, leading -- and even learning alongside -- your kids. With many of the virtual camps below, you can mix and match activities to tailor the experience to your kids’ interests. Expect to be more involved if you go for the free, choose-your-own-adventure camps. But fee-based camps call for some adult participation, too. Check out these offerings:

Make: Online. Free, but materials cost extra; age 12 and up. The folks behind the maker movement offer weekly camps based on themes such as Far Out Future and Flight. You get a PDF with daily activities that support the theme, such as making slime and designing and flying kites.

Made with Code from Google. Free; age 12 and up. A wide range of projects, including making emojis, animating GIFs, and composing music, is designed to ignite a passion for coding in teen girls. (There’s no stopping boys from doing these projects, though.) The site offers inspiration stories from female tech mentors as well as ideas to make coding social, such as a coding party kit. CreativeLive, variable costs; age 14 and up. CreativeLive is a collection of educational video courses, ranging from photography to personal growth. The lessons aren’t necessarily aimed at teens, but most of the content is fine for kids who are interested in adding new skills, such as Photoshop, to their resume.

Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Summer Camps Kanopy. Free; age 3 and up. As long as you have a library card, you can access all the free entertainment and educational videos this app has to offer. Most of the content choices on Kanopy are similar to what patrons of a wellstocked library would expect: well-selected, award-winning films; independent and foreign films; popular kids’ and adults’ TV series; educational shows. The animated books are top-quality, with classics from producers such as Scholastic and Weston Woods.

Structured Learning JAM: Online Courses for Kids. Free for first 14 days; price varies per course, with discounts for purchasing an “All-Access Pass” or “Family Pass”, age 6–16. What can’t kids learn at this online school? There’s drawing, cooking, animation, music, science, engineering, and much more. Each course has a professional mentor and is broken down into easily manageable projects that kids can complete at their own pace.

MarcoPolo World School. Free to try, then monthly fee; age 4 and up This early learning video and game app emphasizes STEAM skills (science, technology, engineering, art, and math). Kids choose from a list of favorite subjects and watch a related topic-based video, which is then followed by a game. Parents and kids can view the monthly calendar to see what new topics are being added to the app, and parents can view kids’ progress.

Camp Wonderopolis. Free for campers; optional instruction guide for parents; age 7 and up. Sponsored by the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), this online camp lets kids explore topics such as weather, food, and technology. Each topic includes lessons, outdoor activities, videos, and additional reading suggestions for all ages.

Start with a Book. Free; age 6 and up. In addition to a summer science camp, this site offers a long list of themes, such as Art, Night Sky, and Weather Report, for kids to explore. For each theme, you get book suggestions (for all reading levels), discussion guides, hands-on activities, and related sites and apps. You’ll need to shell out for books if you can’t find them at the library.

Connected Camps. Price varies; age 8-13. For tech-curious kids, check out Connected Camps, which offers week-long, instructor-led, Minecraft-based camps including coding, game design, and engineering. There are also courses in Minecraft and the Scratch programming language just for girls. TechRocket. Free for a course sampling; price varies; age 10 and up. Launched by iDTechCamp (the popular -- and pricey -- computer day and overnight camps), TechRocket offers online instruction in coding, game design, and graphic design. Each camp offers a variety of levels and challenges as well as a dedicated instructor.

DIY. Free and fee-based; age 7 and up. This site offers dozens of skill-based activities (which it calls “challenges”) in a variety of categories, including Art, Business, and Engineering, that kids can do year-round. Every summer, DIY runs camps Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

and shorter courses. Some of the camps have online counselors who interact with your kid. Sign up to get notified of the latest offerings.

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Combine Finances in Marriage? Q. Should my husband and I combine our finances? A.

If you want a quality marriage, the answer is yes. If you want a high probably of building wealth, the answer is yes. I read an article the other day about how you shouldn’t rely on joint bank accounts in marriage, because half of all marriages end in divorce, and the woman needs to be independent of her husband financially, so she won’t get messed over if the marriage doesn’t last. That’s an absolute load of crap, and here’s why. How and where you spend your money is always a direct result of your value systems. Jesus said it this way, “For where your treasure is, your heart will be, also.” When you plan your finances together, and you’re sharing your hopes and dreams, you’re sharing your goals for the

future. You’re reaching for those together. You each have a voice, you each have a vote, and no one loses their personal identity in this. So yes, married couples should combine their finances. They should combine their checking accounts and their decision making on finances. You’ll make better, smarter decisions that way, and it instills communication in a marriage. You know, when I first started teaching this stuff I didn’t realize that. I told couples to combine their finances, not from a relational standpoint, but because it’s impractical to run two sets of books in a household. But it’s very hard to hit the same goals and make good things happen together when you’re living separate financial lives. Since then, I’ve become convinced this approach builds stronger finances and stronger marriages.

Diversify advisors Q.

We’re wondering if we should diversify our investments by hiring multiple advisors with different companies, so we won’t have all our eggs in one basket.

A. I would get one advisor, and I wouldn’t invest all my mutual funds in one fund. Virtually all mutual fund advisors can sell pretty much any mutual fund, and you can buy an array of different mutual funds from different companies through one advisor. That gives you diversification. So, there’s really no advantage in having multiple advisors, unless you don’t trust someone’s advice. And if you don’t trust someone’s advice, why are you working with them in the first place? I personally have one financial advisor, and I trust that person. Still, I ask lots of questions and make sure I understand everything that’s going on with my money and the investment before making a decision.

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When your child throws a tantrum it is easy to get frustrated, overwhelmed, angry, and embarrassed, especially if the tantrum occurs in public. Unfortunately, the occasional tantrum cannot be avoided. While your child is in the throes of a fit, try to remember these tips.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

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a good idea to use bribes to stop a tantrum. “If you stop crying, I will buy you a toy” rewards the child for the tantrum. However, if your child is in the middle of a tantrum and listening to the same annoying song over and over again on the car ride home will help him calm down, this may be an exception you can live with.

It is normal The first thing to remember when your child has a tantrum is that it is normal. Tantrums are a normal way for kids to express their frustration when they may not be able to communicate their feelings appropriately. While this fact doesn’t make the tantrum any easier to deal with, it does help to know that, developmentally, this is a normal stage.

You are not alone Although it might feel like you are alone while your child has a fit at the grocery store, we have all been there. It is likely your child will have a tantrum in public at some point and it will be embarrassing and inconvenient, but it is generally unavoidable. Remind yourself again that it is normal for kids to have tantrums, leave the store if needed, and try to laugh about it later.

Do not engage During a tantrum the temptation can be to lecture, yell, or reason with the child. They cannot hear you or comprehend reason when they are in the middle of a tantrum. The best thing to do is to wait it out. If you do feel the need to discuss the situation with the child, wait until later when he or she is calm and ready to listen.

Use distraction, humor, and hugs

Leave the scene

During a tantrum, kids are not able to listen to reason but that doesn’t mean parents can’t try to wrap up the crying quickly. Try using a distraction like “Where is the ball?” or “Do you want to read a book?” Make a silly face to lighten the mood or turn on some music and begin a silly dance. For some kids a tight hug helps them to calm down when they are upset. Trying to help your child move past the tantrum can teach them methods for calming themselves down in the future. The situation that caused the tantrum can be discussed later if needed.

When your child starts to throw a tantrum, make sure they are safe, and then leave the area. Typically, if the child doesn’t have an audience to get a reaction from, the tantrum will cease. If you are not comfortable leaving the child alone, get busy doing other things and pretend to ignore them. If the tantrum happens in public, take the child to the car or the bathroom to calm down. If the tantrum continues and the child is unable to calm down, buckle them safely in their car seat and drive home.

Don’t doubt yourself

Consider triggers

There was a day when I had dealt with a particular horrible tantrum from my daughter and I began to blame myself. “What am I doing wrong? I am a terrible mom.” After expressing these things to a friend, she reminded me that I am not a bad mother, I am just having a bad day. It happens to all of us. Remain confident in your parenting and remind yourself you are doing the best you can. Tantrums happen to all parents. The next time your child has a terrible tantrum, try to stop and remember these tips. Ultimately the tantrum will end and your child will grow and learn to communicate more effectively. MBP

Think about what triggered your child to get so upset in the first place. How can frustrating situations be avoided in the future? Of course, not all tantrums can be avoided but certain triggers can be removed. When armed with this information parents can be prepared to use distraction to lessen or avoid a future tantrum.

Don’t give in, except once in awhile Giving into a tantrum will do nothing but encourage future tantrums. If your child is throwing a tantrum because he wants to eat a cookie before dinner, do not give him the cookie. It is also not

Sarah Lyons is a Midwestern wife and mother of six children, including two year old triplets.

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Perfect Chemistry for Kids

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Kids encounter chemistry daily. The foods they eat, the medicines they take, even the toys they play with, are all impacted by natural and manmade chemicals. Cultivating a basic knowledge of chemistry helps children understand how the whole world around them works. It may even keep them safer, as they learn about the positive and negative chemical reactions they can encounter in their environments. Before the word ‘chemistry’ can evolve into an intimidating course selection in their high school years, these recommended items can introduce young scientists to chemical experimentation in fun and positive ways right in their own at-home laboratory.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Ultimate DIY Slime Kit

Mega Crystal Growing Lab

Slime is the ultimate contradiction in hands-on experience. Cool, moist and gooey, slime’s ‘yuck factor’ conversely amplifies its attraction for children’s hands, eager to manipulate it. Expanding a kid’s tactile exploration into a learning journey is easy with the Ultimate DIY Slime Kit. Featuring everything needed to make a small amount of slime, kitchen scientists can quickly whip up glow-in-the-dark, clear goo, glitter-infused, and color-changing slimes. For parents, this kit’s appeal lies in its completeness. Rather than having to round up diverse and excess ingredients to make slime from scratch, this boxed experiment offers just the right amount of materials. The included mixers, containers and storage also protect kitchen dishes from being co-opted for science. Hands-on slime science has never been so easy!

The natural formation of crystals in the earth is an absolute wonder that usually takes place slowly and hidden from our eyes. With the Mega Crystal Growing Lab children learn about crystal formation through chemistry that accelerates the process right at home. Using ‘seed’ rocks to guide the mineral growth, kids and their adult lab partners cook up solutions that foster the creations of various crystal types. Instead of millennia, these crystals only need 7-10 days undisturbed to evolve into transparent marvels. With four silicone growing chambers, this kit provides materials for eight crystal growing opportunities. When kids place their completed home-grown beauties on the included night light display, the distinctly colorful and faceted beauty of their crystals remains to illuminate the chemistry that created them.

(Ultimate Science)

(National Geographic)

Make Your Own Soap

Glow-In-The-Dark Lab

(KLUTZ)

Already familiar with the sudsy marvel they handle daily, now kids can get their hands on the process that actually creates soap. Klutz’s complete kit for crafting up to 10 soaps from scratch includes molds, bright colors, fragrance, stickers, skin-safe glitter, and everything young chemists need to soak up soap science. From melting to molding, the step-by-step instructions offer tips and tricks for goof-proof soap making. While waiting for the first soaps to harden, kids can explore additional soap-based science experiments right in their own kitchen. This particular kit from KLUTZ is ideal because the processes use safe alternatives to making soap from scratch and don’t include ingredients that may cause chemical burns. Get ready to dive into good, clean fun and learning with everything kids need to explore the science of soap.

(SmartLab Toys)

More than just a light in the darkness, the science of chemical illumination is ideal for introducing kids to the principles of fluorescence, phosphorescence and more. With the addition of some household chemicals, the Glow-in-theDark Lab offers the directions, materials and catalysts for young scientists to light up the lab. This kit includes a handheld black-light activator, measures, molds, and detailed instructions for 20 science experiments that will jump start a kids glow-in-the-dark journey through chemistry. If you’ve lost a hundred flashlights to curious kids, the Glow-in-the-Dark Lab may be just the thing to let them explore their interest in irresistible illumination, encouraging them to create their own light sources through fun and engaging experiments!

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 2019

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1507 Dauphin St. Mobile, 36604 Dates: July 15-18 Times: 8:45am12pm Ages: Rising K4-Rising 6th grade Theme: Camp Adventure Discovering God in Wild New Ways

Join us this summer for Camp Adventure at Dauphin Way UMC! Camp Adventure will be a fun-filled week of discovering God through Prayer, discovering God through Creation, discovering God through People, and discovering God through Service. There will be crafts, songs, snacks, games, and time for our children to grow together in community with one another, along with loads of fun and memories that will last well beyond these four short days. (251) 471-1511 dwumcvbs@gmail.com dauphinwayumc.org/ CampAdventure

Covenant Presbyterian Church

Theme: Roar! Life is Wild, God is Good It’s sure to be a lot of fun and a helpful guide for the kids to learn more about GOD. This fun event is free! (251) 633-8141 Codyroad@gmail.com codyroadal.adventistchurch.org

First Baptist Tillman’s Corner

5660 Three Notch Road Mobile, 36619 Dates: July 8-12 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: Completed Kindergarten-6 grade Theme: In the Wild (251) 661-0114 www.fbtc.org

Saraland UMC

415 McKeough Avenue Saraland, 36571 Dates: July 8-11 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: K5-5th Grade Theme: To Mars and Beyond We’ll have Bible stories, games, music, crafts, and MUCH MORE!! Register at http://tmab.cokesburyvbs.com/saralandunitedmethodistchurch (251) 675-2728 www.saralandumc.org

St. Mary Parish

2651 Spring Hill Avenue Mobile, 36607 Dates: July 22-25 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: 3 (potty trained) - rising 5th Grade Theme: Roar! Life is wild. God is good (251) 298-7055 marty@covenantpresmobile.org covenantpresmobile.org

1453 Old Shell Rd, Mobile, 36604 Dates: July 8-12 Times: 9 am to 12 noon Theme: “Mary Leads Me Closer to Jesus” Ages: For children entering grades PreK4 through 5th Grade. For more information contact VBS Coordinator Elizabeth Blanchette at blanchetteb@bellsouth.net or the parish office at (251) 432-8678.

Cody Rd Seventh Day Adventist Church

Westminister Presbyterian

900 Cody Road South Mobile, 36695 Dates: July 8-12 Times: 5:30pm dinner, 6:30-8:30pm VBS Ages: 4 - 13

2921 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36606 Dates: July 8-12 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: K5-5th Grade 251-471-5451 wpcmobile.com

Camp Adventure VBS - Dauphin Way UMC July 15-18, 2019 • 8:45 am - 12 PM We are excited to announce that registration for this year’s Vacation Bible School - “Camp Adventure: Discovering God in Wild New Ways” - is now open! VBS Camp Adventure is for rising Pre-K to rising 6th grade.

To register for Camp Adventure, or for any other information, please visit us online at www. dauphinwayumc.org/CampAdventure

Save The Date June 30, 2019 • 4 pm Join Dauphin Way for our first annual Splash at the Patch! With water games and inflatables, this event is sure to please children of all ages! For more information, call Kat Brand at (251) 471-1511. Beat the heat with Splash at the Patch! 33

Dauphin Way UMC 1507 Dauphin St. Mobile, AL 36604 Phone: (251) 471-1511 Fax: (251) 471-6980 Website: dwumc.org Email: info@dauphinwayumc.org

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So your child’s birthday is just around the corner, and you don’t have time to plan and prepare the perfect birthday party? Don’t despair. There are plenty of fun places to hold kids’ parties that’ll save you time in planning, preparation, and cleanup. Most importantly, your birthday girl or boy and guests will have a blast. Try some of these party places for kids of all different ages. When you call, ask what amenities are available and included. Many places provide invitations, food and cake, balloons and decorations, a private party area, a gift for the birthday child, and other special birthday services.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

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Skates & Blades - Roller skating rinks

are again gaining popularity and most offer a choice of inline or roller skate rentals for today’s kids. Consider ice-skating and ice or roller hockey parties as a fun alternative.

Strike it Big

– Bowling parties are a fun form of recreation for kids of all ages. Preschoolers can score every time with bumper bowling, while teens can go cosmic for glow in the dark fun. Add to the amusement by offering small prizes for low and high scores and the most and fewest gutters.

Pizza and Play – Preschool and early

elementary children thrill at being invited to these parties where they can play kiddie arcade-style games, win tickets for prizes, hop on coin operated rides, and romp in soft play areas.

Old MacDonald Had a Farm

– Check with a nearby farm or ranch to find out what activities are offered. Many include hayrides, petting zoos, corn mazes, apple picking, and more. These are perfect for fall birthdays.

Recreational Romp

– Recreation and fitness centers offer a wide variety of activities for birthdays including gymnastics, swimming, basketball, and arts and crafts.

You Should be Dancin’

– Check with your local dance studio for party packages. Some offer professional dance instruction and allow food and party treats to be brought in so the whole shebang is done right there.

Music Marvel – Big kids will be in awe

to see one of their favorite performers in concert. For young children, look for a kiddie

musical adventure offered by an area musician or music center.

PARTY TIPS:

Craft Magic – Young children love to

• Keep the guest list manageable to avoid chaos, confusion, and conflict. The number of guests should correspond with the child’s age or slightly over.

Hands on Science – Keep kids of all ages

• Request an RSVP with a specific deadline, allowing time to invite others should the guest list fall short. Be sure to include your phone number.

create, so schedule a craft party at a fabric shop, craft store, or scrap-recycling center where kids’ activities are offered. thoroughly engrossed and entertained at a nearby hands on science museum where they can try out gadgets, watch or participate in experiments, play instruments, construct, and much more.

Amusement Mini-Party–

Theme parks make for big-time fun for older kids who are content to take only one or two guests. When planning the guest list, don’t forget to budget meals, snacks, and drinks, which add up quickly in theme parks.

Monkeyin’ Around

– Parties away from home don’t have to be costly. Reserve a shelter at a nearby park with a large, fencedin, frontier-style playscape. To keep things simple, call ahead for pizza delivery.

Row, Row, Row Your Boat – An

afternoon canoe or kayak excursion for teens is the ultimate in outdoor fun. Bring along a picnic lunch, and make sure the food stays in the chaperone canoe where it’ll be safe from tips. Don’t forget balloons for water balloon fights during rest stops.

Z is for Zoo

–Zoos are a great source for birthday entertainment. Many offer party packages that include meals, cake, invitations, live animal presentations, and more.

• Offer your child choices for his party, ask for input, and allow him to assist in planning. • Send out written invitations. Verbal invitations may be forgotten, make the invitee feel that she was an afterthought, and often leave parents of the invited child wondering whether the invitation was approved by the birthday child’s parents. • Include all details on the invitation including a start and end time, address and directions, phone number, and what guests need to bring such as a bathing suit and towel. • Play it safe, and set a rain date for outdoor parties. • Keep the length of the party within reason. Unless it’s a sleepover or special event, preschool parties should be limited to not much more than one hour and two to three hours for older children. MBP Kimberly Blaker is the author of a kid’s STEM book, Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery? containing fun experiments to help kids understand the scientific method and develop critical thinking skills.

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Dauphin Island Marina – The Duke ad on page 7

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! (251) 861-2201 reservations@actionoutdoors.org www.actionoutdoors.org

Dauphin Island Sea Lab ad on page 26

101 Bienville Boulevard, Mobile Host your birthday party at the Estuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab! Please call or email for reservations. (251) 861-2141 x 7000 www.disl.org

Dreamland Skate Center ad on page 29

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

Entertainment to You Animal Tales, LLC ad on page 9

Make your next event one to remember by inviting live educational animal ambassadors. We aim to educate, entertain, and inspire! (800) 589-5408 ext 2 info@animaledzoocation.com www.animaledzoocation.com

Balloon Bubble Buddies ad on page 43

Hi! 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

Sunshine the Clown

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

Uncle Joe’s Rolling Zoo

Petting zoo that comes to you! (251) 866-7713

Weavo the Clown

Balloon artist, clown and face painting. (251) 463-4939 or (251) 463-4938 weavo55@yahoo.com

Places to Party Bright Spot ad on page 38

Dr. Gee’s Magic & Balloons

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

Faces By Alyce

Cheer Force One

Magic and Balloons for Parties, Promotions and Events. Well-Scripted Entertaining and Educational Magic Shows. Creative and Colorful Balloons for Everyone who Loves Balloons. Find us on Facebook. (251) 662-7415 Face Painting for your party, festival 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 Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

ad on page 31

8700 Zeigler Boulevard, Mobile Cheer Force One has the party space you need for your big day. Bring your own party to our space or choose one of our new themed party options for boys and girls. With Cheer Force One, there’s no need to flip out planning your next event. (251) 634-0203 www.CheerForceOne.com

Get Air Mobile ad on page 25

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

Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center ad on Inside Front Cover

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

GulfQuest ad on page 19

155 South Water Street, Mobile Celebrate your child’s birthday in a one-of-a-kind way — on the Mobile River! If your child loves the water, boats, or marine life, we are the birthday party destination for you. (251) 436-8901 info@gulfquest.org www.gulfquest.org

LazerZONE ad on page 9

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! New attractions coming soon! (251) 639-7330 info@lazerzone.co www.lazerzonemobile.com

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Original Oyster House ad on page 9

3733 Battleship Parkway, Mobile The Original Oyster House provides a FREE small cake for birthday celebrations. You may also bring in your own cake. Be sure to check out our private rooms for special occasion. (251) 626-2188 www.originaloysterhouse.com/ group-events.php

Pump-it Up ad on page 5

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 and our NEW GLOW Balloon Drop! (251) 342-3940 www.PumpItUpParty.com/ mobile-al

USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park ad on page 47

2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile Book your birthday party aboard the USS

ALABAMA. Admirals Package: $250. Includes 2 hour rental of the wardroom, admission for 20 children and their parents. (251) 433-2703 rdavis@ussalabama.com www.ussalabama.com

Waterville USA - Water Park & Amusement Park ad on page 39

Highway 59 South, Gulf Shores Waterville USA is the gulf coast headquarters for “family fun”! Whether you’re planning a birthday party, family reunion, church outing, end of season sports team party, boy/girl scout event, or after-hours private party, the fun begins at Waterville USA! Please visit watervilleusa.com for more information. Let us customize the perfect party for your group! Call 251-948-2106 for details. (251) 948-2106 wville2@gulftel.com www.watervilleusa.com

2:21 Fun Factory

3761 Government Boulevard A, Mobile 2 Party Packages available with add-ons. (251) 378-5296 www.facebook. com/221funfactory/

Alligator Alley

19950 Highway 71, Summerdale Over 450 alligators from hatchlings to adults,

relaxing, sunbathing, courting and nesting. Watch our crew walk right out to feed the alligators! Walk along the elevated boardwalk and see alligators and other animals in their natural habitat. Field trips, group tours and birthday parties. Call to book yours today! (866) 994-2867 or (251) 946-2483 info@gatoralleyfarm.com gatoralleyfarm.com

Altitude Trampoline Park

3658 Airport Boulevard Suite C, Mobile Schedule your birthday party with Altitude and let our party host do all of the work. (251) 725-0171 www.altitudetrampolineparkmobile.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 Our parties are custom-built and made to amaze, featuring classic bowling fun, unique party favors, and a ton of kid-friendly food and drinks! (251) 639-1221 www.amf.com

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AMF Bowling Centers

4120 Government Boulevard, Mobile Our parties are custom-built and made to amaze, featuring classic bowling fun, unique party favors, and a ton of kid-friendly food and drinks! (251) 661-1221 www.amf.com

Azalea City for the Arts

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! (251) 510-1808 www.azaleacityarts.com

Back Country Trail

3801 Orange Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach Bike or Hike to your next family picnic or birthday party! Enjoy bouldering, the butterfly garden and scenic trails through Gulf State Park. Visit the Campground Store to purchase trail gear and snacks. (251) 981-1063 trail@cityoforangebeach.com www.backcountrytrail.com

Beginner’s Luck

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

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Bob’s Paintball

3428 Dawes Road, Mobile Planning a birthday party out here is a great way to celebrate. (251) 639-8245 www.bobspaintball.com

Breakout Mobile

3090 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile With many different rooms that follow unique storylines, you and your friends will have 60 minutes to escape your adventure of choice. (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 and then through party games. (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, Old Fashion Banana Splits, Milk Shakes, and more! (251) 471-1710 www.cammiesolddutch.com

Chuck E. Cheese’s

710 Downtowner Loop West, Mobile We have birthday party packages to fit all ages, party sizes, and budgets. (251) 342-8142 www.chuckecheese.com

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 special pizza making tools and ingredients. (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. Catering - Birthday Parties - Field Trips - And MORE! (251) 344-7074 Find us on Facebook

Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream

3964 Airport Boulevard, Mobile 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

Engage Gaming

5701-N Moffett Road, Mobile XBox, PS4, VR, PC, and more! We’ve got it all! We have numerous party packages. (251)378-8260 www.engagegamingmobile.com

Fairways Indoor Golf Club

25000 Bass Pro Drive (Suite 104) , Spanish Fort Our facility is a perfect environment for corporate

its about more than the steps.

Confident, Ambitious, Focused and Happy!

633-9559 MON-THUR 2-6 pm

6429 Hillcrest Park Ct. • Mobile, AL • 251.633.9559 Ballet • Pointe • Tap • Jazz • Tumbling • Contemporary • Hip Hop Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

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maximum of 260 pounds and must be at least eight years of age. (251) 948-9494 info@gulfadventurecenter.com www.gulfadventurecenter.com

and merriment awaits you, in historic downtown Mobile. (251) 431-9334 www.mobilecarnivalmuseum.com

Fairways Indoor Golf Club

KJB Studio

3055 Old Shell Road, Mobile Your child will feel like a super star as they swing in the foam pit, jump on the trampolines, learn gymnastics and play games. (251) 479-9311 nassergym@yahoo.com www.nassergym.net

25000 Bass Pro Drive (Suite 104) , Spanish Fort Great for corporate events, private events, birthday parties and fundraisers. (251) 621-5277 info@fairwaysindoorgolfclub.com www.fairwaysindoorgolfclub.com

Ferris Wheel, Mini Golf and The Wharf Express

23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach Please call for party and group rates. Picnic tables and umbrellas are available for parties. (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Gather Kids Place

7856 Westside Park Drive, Mobile Gather together for Open Play, Storytimes & Birthday Parties! We’re all about creative play for littles. Ages 0-7. www.gatherfamilychurch.com/kidsplace

Gulf Coast Ducks

150 South Royal Street, Mobile Enjoy your birthday on a 70 minute, hilariously entertaining duck boat tour! Group rates available! Private tours available! (251) 525-6933 info@gulfcoastducks.com www.gulfcoastducks.com

Hummingbird Zipline Course

4700 Main Street (Unit G-114), Orange Beach The most unique zipline course in the U.S. is located at The Wharf in Orange Beach. Participants must be a minimum of 65 pounds and a

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

Nasser Gymnastics

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

Linda’s Learning Farm

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 party by celebrating at the Hank. Great standard birthday package and add-ons available. (251) 479-2327 baybears@mobilebaybears.com www.mobilebaybears.com

Mobile Carnival Museum

355 Government Street, Mobile Celebrate your birthday in royal style at the Mobile Carnival Museum where Mardi Gras fun

Water Slides Wave Pool Dune Racer Flowrider Lazy River New Arcade Games Screamin’ Demon Mini-Golf go-carts CYBERVILLE USA Launch pad Two Escape Rooms Private Cabanas & MUCH MORE!

1501 South OWA Boulevard, Foley Discover a whole new level of fun when you throw a birthday party. OWA’s 20+ ride amusement park is the perfect place to celebrate your child’s special day. (251) 923-2111 GroupSales@VisitOWA.com www.VisitOWA.com

Paint Party Studios

15 Upham Street, Mobile $200 Kids Paint Party Package (a 2 hour private party for up to 20 kids). (251) 343-2423 info@paintpartystudios.com www.paintpartystudios.com

Partridge Plantation

9574 Cumberland Road, Irvington A two-hour party includes hayride, pony ride, table cloths and balloons, playground and visiting the farm animals in a safe environment. (251) 957-6465 www.thepartridgeplantation.com

Pete’s Party Castle

2040 Schillinger Road South, Mobile Enjoy great food, arcades and a dragon playground. (251) 281-1990 www.petespartycastle.com

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Th 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. (251) 650-0699 PlanetGymnasticsAL@comcast.net www.planetgymnastics.com

Putting Place

5103 Girby Road, Mobile We are Mobile’s premier miniature golf destination. We have two, 18-hole courses for all to enjoy! We also host parties and private events. (251) 375-1490 theputtingplace@gmail.com Find us on Facebook

Rambo’s Skateland

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

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 with a fun-filled day on the

farm! We offer several birthday party packages to choose from with optional add-on activities. (228) 641-3936 info@sewardfarms.com www.sewardfarms.com

Silver Lining Farm @ Mimi C. Peters Riding School

10727 El Nina Drive, Mobile Horsey birthday parties are the easiest and fun for all ages. The guests ride horses and ponies for one hour. Our experienced students help give the children a mini lesson. Riding is followed by a hay ride around the beautiful property with lots of singing! (251) 634-1229 horses@silverliningfarm.net www.silverliningfarm.net

Southern Alabama Paintball

4901 Montee Road, Theodore We pride ourselves in providing a safe, family oriented paintball field for all players. We also have laser tag and airsoft games. (251) 301-6004 www.southernalabamapaintball.com

Spa-Tea-Da

3938 Government Boulevard, Mobile We are a unique, whimsical party venue offering themed spa and tea parties, individual spa services and fun events. Girls ages 3-13. Reservation required. (251) 447-4846 www.spa-tea-da.com

Splatty Patty, LLC

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! 251-721-8968 splattypatty2017@gmail.com www.splattypatty.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 Skate and Go-Kart party options – The only indoor Go-Kart party in town with safe indoor gokarts with 2 great packages that include go-kart racing, arcade time in our new arcade, invitations, and tokens. (251) 639-1704 info@sunshineskate.com www.sunshineskate.com

Sunshine Sue’s Playgarden

61 West I-65 Service Road N, Mobile Birthday Parties, Play Place, Classes and more! Our parties are completely customizable, from affordable fun to absolutely amazing! (251) 421-2434 Find us on Facebook

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The Fort of Colonial Mobile

150 South Royal Street, Mobile Come to The Fort and have party on The Lawn! (251) 802-3092 www.colonialmobile.com

The Track

3200 Gulf Shore Parkway, Gulf Shores (251) 270-0210 gulfshores@funatthetrack.com www.funatthetrack.com

Wales West

13670 Smiley Street, Silverhill Celebrate any size party at Wales West! You can include authentic Train ride, minitrain, lake with waterslide and large shady deck, indoor Heated Pool, or Community party room. (888) 569-5337 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 nonmembers available. (251) 285-7946 www.westmobileswimclub.com

Wild Native Delta Safaris

30841 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Narrated Boat Tours! Please call for party options and booking. (251) 259-8531 or (877) 411-SAFARI info@ wildnative.com www.wildnativetours.com

Wild Native Delta Safaris

101 South Water Street, Mobile Narrated Boat Tours! Please call for party options and booking. (251) 272-4088 info@wildnative.com www.wildnativetours.com

Xtreme Paintball

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. (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

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

YMCA Birthday Parties

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

Cakes, Cupcakes and Treats Bake My Day

156-A McGregor Avenue North, Mobile We bake everything from scratch just like our mothers have for over 70 years. Wonderful Cakes! (251) 219-7261 www.bakemydaymobile.com

Baskin Robbins

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

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In Pa

Art Cakes by Judi

4831 Schimpfs Lane, Mobile We are well-known for our beautiful and delicious wedding cakes. But, you can also have a cake by Judi for your child’s birthday! (251) 666-1565 info@cakesbyjudi.com www.cakesbyjudi.com

Delish’s Desserts

23 Upham Street, Mobile 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 dessert tables for any event! (251) 219-7406 www.ellenjayevents.com

Flour Girls Bakery

809 Hillcrest Road, Mobile Hometown bakery specializing in handmade cakes, cupcakes, cookies and pastries. (251) 634-2285 flourgirlsbakery2285@yahoo. com Find us on Facebook

Great American Cookie

1201 Industrial Parkway, Saraland We do all kinds of cookie cakes for all occasions.

We bake fresh every day. Say it with a cookie cake! (251) 345-1928 www.greatamericancookies.com

Great American Cookie

3490 Bel Air Mall, Mobile (251) 476-2447 www.greatamericancookies.com 740 Schillinger Road South, Mobile (251) 633-0636 www.greatamericancookies.com We do all kinds of cookie cakes for all occasions. We bake fresh every day. Say it with a cookie cake!

Lighthouse Bakery

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

Marble Slab Creamery

Pollman’s Bake Shop, Inc

4464 Old Shell Road, Mobile (251) 342-8546 750 South Broad Street, Mobile (251) 438-1511 Classic Bake Shop serving Mobile since 1918! Cakes for all occasions, pastries, cookies and sandwiches. Wonderful Birthday Cakes!

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

1201 Industrial Parkway, Saraland (251) 345-1928 www.marbleslab.com 740 Schillinger Road South, Mobile (251) 633-0636 www.marbleslab.com Marble Slab Creamery offers truly unique gourmet ice cream cakes that give a chef-driven flair to any occasion.

6207 Cottage Hill Road Suite B, Mobile 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

Pastry Shop, The

Sweet Ryn’s Bakery

2560 Dauphin Street, Mobile Wonderful service; delicious, beautiful and original cakes and pastries! (251) 479-2629

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

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Invitations - Décor Party Supplies Art Craft Press, Inc.

12 Tacon Street, Mobile Fine printing since 1929. (251) 471-4383 www.artcraftpress.org

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

Gwin’s Stationery

4513 Old Shell Road, Mobile 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

2032 Airport Boulevard Suite H, Mobile Paper Jubilee is a stationery store in Midtown Mobile. Personalized gifts and stationery! (251) 401-5685 paperjubilee1@gmail.com paperjubilee.printswell.com

Party City

300 East Azalea Road, Mobile Paper goods, balloons, favors, invitations, piñatas, music, catering supplies and much more. (251) 342-0003 www.partycity.com

Party Tyme Treats

Party Tyme Treats provides customize party favors & packages to coordinate any theme! partytymetreats@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/PartyTyme76Treats/

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 Come check out all our Special Occasion supplies which includes birthday party hats, paper supplies, favors & more. (251) 450-5012 www.toomeys-mardigras.com

Rentals Blue Rents

1601 East I-65 Service Road South, Mobile Offering inflatables, games & activities, photo booths, concessions, tents, tables and chairs, catering and event equipment. (251) 479-8502 www.bluerents.net

Bounce and Slide Party Rentals of Saraland Water slides, dry slides, bounce houses, snow cone and popcorn machines. (251) 643-5570 (877) 938-2505 Find us on Facebook

Bow-Tag

A safe and friendly archery game, indoors or out using foam-tipped arrows. We come to your event location. (251) 895-5714 cole@bow-tag.com www.bow-tag.com

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P Dreamy Sleepovers

We deliver the perfect, stress free slumber party. (251) 447-3062 dreamysleepovers1@gmail.com dreamy-sleepovers.com

Funtime Event Services We deliver fun! (251) 633-6676

www.funtimems.com

Hallmark Party Rentals

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

Hurricane Inflatables

We offer bounce houses, water slides and more. (251) 923-7279 concessionmaker@hotmail.com www.hurricaneinflatables.com

special occasion. Our unique photo booth is fully customizable to fit your needs. (251) 490-5693 www.magicmemoriesphoto.com

Movie Go

Magnolia Farms

On Sight Game Theatre

15275 County Road 49 South, Summerdale We offer several party package options. (251) 605-7216 magnoliacornmaze@gmail.com www.magnoliacornmaze.com

Make Believe Parties

Your requested character will arrive 30 minutes after your party begins. (251) 508-3145 www.makebelieveparties mobileal.weebly.com

Marble Slab Creamery

Movie Screen Rentals. (251) 382-0951 Find us on Facebook On Sight Entertainment brings the best mobile video game truck party right to your front door. (251) 207-8102 www.onsightentertainment.com

Once Upon a Time Parties

Book a fairy-tale character to attend Birthday parties, charity events and more. www.onceuponatimepartiesal.com

Spartan Inflatables

Offers bounce houses, 5 in 1 combos, wet/dry slides, and obstacle courses. (251) 333-6400 www.spartaninflatables.com

JB’s Fun Jumps & Slides is your one stop shop for all things bouncy and fun!! (251) 599-9301 info@jbsfunjumps.com www.jbsfunjump.com

1201 Industrial Parkway, Saraland (251) 345-1928 www.marbleslab.com 740 Schillinger Road South, Mobile (251) 633-0636 www.marbleslab.com Sundae Bar, Portable Slab or an ice cream cake to match your theme.

Kona Ice

Mobile Popcorn (Carnival Supply)

3333-C Cottage Hill Road, Mobile We are a one stop fun shop. (251) 479-2492 www.mobilepopcorn.com

The Cheese Wagon

Have Kona Ice Truck come to your next Birthday Party. (251) 583-0889 konalife@kona-ice.com www.kona-ice.com

Magic Memories Photography LLC – Photo Booth Rental

Mobile Trolley

Wee Bounce 4 U Party Rentals

JB’s Fun Jumps & Slides

Photo booth rentals are a great addition to any

The Old Shell Trolley is available for rentals. (251) 604-6626 www.oldshelltrolleyclub.com

Starlight Stables

11635 Dick Turner Road, Grand Bay We offer pony rentals for parties! We come to you, or you can have your party here. (251) 391-4268 www.starlightstables.weebly.com Mobile’s Original Party Bus! Your ultimate mobile party solution for any occasion or event. (251) 510-8500 www.thecheesewagon.com 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

Entering Your Teen’s Cultural Arena

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If you have teens in the house, no doubt you’ve heard mention of The Hunger Games. These stories have resonated with kids everywhere, making the series into bestselling books and billion-dollar blockbuster movies. But why do teens relate to these works of fiction so much? Film reviewer Dana Stevens wrote, “Adolescence is not for the faint of heart. The to-do list for the decade between ages 10 and 20 includes separating from your parents, finding your place among your peers at school, beginning to make decisions about your own future, and—oh yes— figuring out how to relate to the world, and yourself. [Stories like The Hunger Games] externalize the turmoil that’s already taking place in adolescent minds, hearts, and bodies.” I don’t think I exaggerate when I say that our world can resemble a gladiator’s arena at times. Your teens are consistently thrown to the cultural lions; forced to battle the influences and powers that wage war for their hearts and minds. Many parents look around and say, “I’m so glad I don’t have to grow up in this culture.” But Mom and Dad, your teens do! So how can we help our kids navigate this cultural maze and come out the other side in one piece?

Look Around

I know it’s tempting at times to just bury our heads in the sand. Read the latest article about a school shooting and you worry about your teen during the day. Watch an awards show with your kids, and you want to cover their eyes during most of the performances. Hear some of the conversations and issues that are being discussed at your child’s school, and you may want to keep them home instead! Our teens may be the most exposed, most informed and most vulnerable generation that has ever lived. As parents, we may seek to shelter out kids from the culture, or run the other way. But we have to realize that this is the only world that our kids have to live in. If we don’t show them how to navigate this jungle, who will? In order to prevent our teens from becoming casualties of the culture, we have to adjust,

adapt and find new ways to speak to our kids over all the noise. That involves taking time to look around and find inroads to real conversations. So hop on Facebook, and see what topics kids are discussing. Scan the latest movies or music and see what is drawing teens today. Review your child’s homework, to discover what they’re learning. Talk to your teen’s friends when they come over, to see what’s on their minds. Like a missionary, assimilate into the culture your kids are living in. You don’t have to like everything your teen likes, but you should know what interests them, what excites them, and what they are being exposed to on a daily basis.

Verbalize Your Findings

Once you have done a little research into teen culture, use what you’ve discovered as a springboard to engage in a conversation. You can start off by saying, “I saw a clip from the recent video music awards, and one performance seemed inappropriate and rather provocative. What do you think?” What you are doing is allowing your teen to think through the issues of their culture, and come to clear and logical conclusions on their own. You’re giving your teen an opportunity to interpret the world around him. Questions, asked without a judgmental attitude or unsolicited opinions, prompt your kids to begin their own thinking process. Instead of letting the culture wash over them (and perhaps drag them into the undertow), by asking questions and verbalizing your observations you can train your child to formulate their beliefs and opinions. Of course, you might not always agree with your child’s conclusion. But that means you need to keep the conversation going. It’s not a “one-anddone” discussion. Keep your eyes peeled for cultural markers that invite conversation, and keep on asking your teen good questions like, “What do you think about this problem?” “Do you think what she did is wrong or right?” “How would you have handled this differently?” Parents might be wondering, “Mark, if I talk about risky behaviors or sensitive subjects, won’t it pique the interest of my kids and make them want to try them?” Mom and Dad, by NOT talking about drug use, drinking, sexual activity, homosexuality, violence, modesty, 45

cutting, depression, abuse, or a host of other issues in our world—you’ll make your child more interested. By talking about these issues openly and honestly, you’re essentially taking away the mystique. Plus, if you don’t discuss these issues with your son or daughter, I can guarantee that someone else will! Wouldn’t you rather be the one to walk your teen through the labyrinth? I know it can be difficult to bring up some of these subjects, but remember, it’s for the maturity and benefit of your child.

Fewer Lectures, More Conversations

You have every right to rail against our culture. Goodness knows there are plenty of opportunities to do so. But that won’t help your child navigate his world. If your daughter is sixteen, she’s had sixteen years of your instruction. Now it’s time to for her to put that teaching into practice. She doesn’t need more lectures about what is right and wrong. Your daughter knows. What she needs is guidance on applying what she knows into everyday situations. How do I present myself on social media? How do I handle money? What movies and music are worth watching or listening to? Those questions are answered by gentle conversations, not by more speeches and sermons. Many times, we parents rant about all the problems in the world. Teens know what we’re against, rather than what we’re for. Instead of pointing out the wrongs, focus your time on what’s right. Let your teen hear you applaud acts of kindness, cheer for victories of truth, and highlight areas of good in our culture. It’s not all bad. There are many things that we can get behind in our world. Choose those things to talk about as well, and let your teen know that you are a champion for good and not simply an investigator of what’s bad. It’s true that our world can seem like a battleground where cultural attacks are aimed at destroying our teens. But that’s why they need Mom and Dad to walk beside them and help them get through it safely. The world doesn’t need to win; not if Mom and Dad climb into the arena and fight alongside their teen. 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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FamilyCalendar Tuesday June 25

The PACT auditions for Disney’s Frozen JR 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM, The PACT, 3995 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Auditions for Disney’s Frozen Jr. 251-307-5056 thepactmobile.com

Crafting with Mr. Butch (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Join Mr. Butch as we make Pine Cone Bird Feeders.. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Interstellar Story Hour (Free) 10:00 AM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Parkway Mobile, AL, 36605 Family Fun! Blast Off with us at the Parkway Branch for out of this world stories, crafts and surprises! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wednesday June 26

Slime Lab (Free) 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM, West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us for some slime making fun! Supplies are limited so registration is required. Sessions will be 2 - 2:30 p.m. and 3 - 3:30 p.m. For more information or to register, please call the children’s department at 340-8571 or email westyou@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday June 27

Kids Days in Bienville Square 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Bienville Square , 150 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 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 Teen Art Space - Artist Michael Albert (Free) 2:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 New York based artist, Michael Albert presents a hands-on collage workshop. Ages 8-14. Space and materials are limited. Registration is required. For more information or to register, please call call 494-4870 or email jlee@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Distinguished Young Women 62nd National Finals First Preliminary 7:00 PM Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us at the Mobile Civic Center Theatre for Distinguished Young Women’s First Preliminary Competition of the 62nd National Finals as the Class of 2019 competes in fitness, talent and self-expression! www.distinguishedyw.org KC and The Sunshine Band 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 KC and The Sunshine Band concert. www.mobilesaenger.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 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. Weather permitting! Movie - Ice Age townofdauphinisland.org

Friday June 28

Brown Bag Matinee (Free) 12:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Bring a brown bag lunch or snack and enjoy a movie at the Library! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

Distinguished Young Women 62nd National Finals Second Preliminary 7:00 PM Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL, 36602 www.distinguishedyw.org Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 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 - Happy Feet 2 townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday June 29

Drop In Make & Take (Free) 10:00 AM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Stop by the Library and make your own Morse Code Necklace. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org STEMy Saturdays (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us as we engage in science, technology, engineering and math projects at the Library! Hour of Code - Try an hour of computer science. Ages 8 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Distinguished Young Women 62nd Annual National Finals 7:00 PM Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us as we celebrate 62 years of inspiring young women! The 61st Annual National Finals will feature finalists from the Class of 2019 as they compete in fitness, talent and self-expression. Thousands of scholarship dollars will be awarded before one participant is named the Distinguished Young Women of America for 2019. www.distinguishedyw.org

Monday July 1

Preschool Prep (Free) 10:00 AM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us for some hands on fun and learning. Each session includes an opportunity to enjoy circle time, writing/fine motor, gross motor and sensory/ art activities. Let us help your children get ready to read and succeed! Registration is required. For more information or to register, please call 340-8571 or email westyou@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Kindergarten Countdown (Free) 11:00 AM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us for some hands on fun and learning. Each session includes an opportunity to enjoy circle time, writing/fine motor, gross motor and sensory/ art activities. Let us help your children get ready to read and succeed! Registration is required. For more information or to register, please call 340-8571 or email westyou@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wednesday July 3

Grand Bay Watermelon Festival 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Grand Bay Odd Fellows Festival Park, 10327 Taylor F. Harper Grand Bay, AL, 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. grandbaywatermelonfestival.org/ Family Freedom Celebration (Free) 6:30 PM Praise Family Church, 2605 Dawes Road Mobile, AL, 36695 Homemade ice cream and grilling contests, hot dogs, snow cones, fun activities for kids of all ages, and a firework show at 8:15. Free to the community. www.praisefamily.church

Thursday July 4

Grand Bay Watermelon Festival 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Grand Bay Odd Fellows Festival Park, 10327 Taylor F. Harper Grand Bay, AL, 36541 Details July 3. grandbaywatermelonfestival.org/ GulfQuest 4th of July Celebration ($5 - $10) 2:00 PM - 9:00 PM, GulfQuest National Maritime Museum, 155 South Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 For only $5.00 per child, attendees will enjoy unlimited access to this massive water slide, cornhole and a sidewalk chalk competition. In addition to the outdoor festivities, GulfQuest National Maritime Museum exhibits will be open from 2-7 p.m. with a $5.00 per person admission. Tickets can be purchased online. Please Prepurchase waterslide tickets. 251-202-6312 www.gulfquest.org 4th of July Fireworks 7:00 PM - 8:45 PM, OWA, 1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 Let’s get ready for an epic 4th of July! We’ll be celebrating Independence Day at OWA with familyfriendly activities, live entertainment throughout the property, and a spectacular fireworks show at 8:45pm to cap-off the night! Catch our fireworks show anywhere around the property… you can’t miss it! visitowa.com Fairhope’s Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks Display 7:00 PM Fairhope Pier, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Fairhope’s Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks Display, Concert 7 pm & Fireworks 9 pm. www.fairhopeal.gov Fireworks on the Fantail ($50 for adults, $25 for children 6 to 12, children under 5 are free) 7:30 PM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park , 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Come celebrate July 4th on Mobile’s symbol of freedom, the USS ALABAMA. Enjoy an evening of music, barbeque, drinks, ice cream buffet, children’s activities and fireworks viewing from the bow of the ship. ussalabama.com Daphne’s Fourth of July Celebration Al Trione Sports Complex, 8600 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, AL, 36526 Waterslides, Inflatables & Concessions all start at 5pm - Fireworks Begin at Dusk. July 4th Celebration - Mobile Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 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 www.specialeventsmobile.org

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FamilyCalendar Friday July 5

Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 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 - Jaws townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday July 6

Sew and Tell (Free) 10:30 AM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Visit with friends and learn how to make Frog Bean Bags. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Pete the Cat Character Storytime at Barnes & Noble 12:00 PM Barnes & Noble, Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us for a very Special Storytime at Barnes & Noble in Spanish Fort featuring Pete the Cat! We will be reading stories, hosting activities, taking pictures and eating snacks! 251-621-3545

atted

Magical Fairy Fun (Free) 2:00 PM Barnes & Noble, Eastern Shore Centre Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us for fairy fun crafts and storytime at your Spanish Fort Barnes and Noble. 251-621-3545

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Independence Day Street Party and Fireworks 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Wharf, 4830 Main Street Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Join us for a fun-filled Independence

ter

Kindergarten Countdown (Free) 11:00 AM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Details July 1. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Day Street Party complete with kids activities and fireworks. Admission is free with various activities ranging in price from $5-$10. Fireworks will be presented by Columbia Southern University. alwharf.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 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 - Jaws townofdauphinisland.org

Monday July 8

Safe Sitter Class 8:00 AM USA Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Mobile, AL Safe Sitter® Essentials with CPR is a 1-day class designed to prepare students in grades 6-8 to be safe when they’re home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting. The instructor-led class is filled with fun games and role-playing exercises. (251) 895-2367 www.cemsCPR.com Preschool Prep (Free) 10:00 AM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us for some hands on fun and learning. Each session includes an opportunity to enjoy circle time, writing/fine motor, gross motor and sensory/ art activities. Let us help your children get ready to read and succeed! Registration is required. For more information or to register, please call 340-8571 or email westyou@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday July 9

Hands-on History Workshops ($15 for the first child

and each additional child will receive a $5 discount per workshop. FREE with a Family Membership. )

10:00 AM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Oral History - See history through the eyes of someone who lived it! Bring a senior family member or friend to interview and create a book of their stories. (251) 208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com Interstellar Story Hour (Free) 10:00 AM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Parkway Mobile, AL, 36605 Family Fun! Blast Off with us at the Parkway Branch for out of this world stories, crafts and surprises! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Pajama Storytime (Free) 6:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Put on your PJs and join us at the Library for a storytime and milk and cookies. Bring your favorite stuffed animal too! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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FamilyCalendar Wednesday July 10

Summer Art Program - Satsuma Public Library (Free) 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Satsuma Public Library, 5466 Old Hwy 43 Satsuma, AL, 36572251-679-0700 Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home 7:00 PM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Do not miss this very special evening astronomy program, led by members of the University of South Alabama Department of Physics. Following a brief lecture in the Magnolia Room, guests will gather on the Great Lawn to view the night sky. Telescopes will be set up to view planets and constellations. 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

Thursday July 11

Learn How to Paint Like Bob Ross (Free) 3:30 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Want to create beautiful paintings but have no idea how to begin. Join us and learn how to paint like Bob Ross. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Friday July 12

Chilling Sounds & Crafternoon: Audio Book Club & Crafting (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Enjoy listening to a chilling Goosebumps story while doodling or making cool crafts. Arts and craft supplies provided. Ages 8 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Crafting with Mr. Butch (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Join Mr. Butch as we make Balloon Pom Pom Shooters. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Free Family Movie Night (Free) West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 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! townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday July 13

Africatown Bridge Challenge 7:30 AM Africatown Welcome Center - Old Plateau Cemetery, Mobile, AL, 36610 Race to benefit Africatown Community Garden and Marketplace www.eventbrite.com Saturday Make and Take (Free) 10:30 AM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Stop by the Library and make your own STEAM Punk Jewelry. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Super Adoption Day with ARF 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us on Saturday, July 13 from 11am-2pm for a Superpower Dog adoption event! We have partnered with Animal Rescue Foundation in Theodore, Alabama (http://www.animalrescuemobile.org/) to help find forever homes for our furry friends. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

Reading Paws (Free) 2:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Meet, Greet & Read! 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 After Hours Car and Truck Show 4:00 PM Hank Aaron Stadium, 755 Bolling Brothers Blvd Mobile, AL, 36606 After Hours is a Car/Truck Night Show located in Mobile, Al with that old school vibe. A show you can bring your family to hangout with great friends and other Car guys/gals. STEMy Saturdays (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us as we engage in science, technology, engineering and math projects at the Library! Mythbusters. Ages 8 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Apollo-Palooza: 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing (Free) 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Children’s Crafts, MoonPies, Film and Moon Viewing. It’s a celebration that is Out of This World! Join us for MoonPies, popcorn and sodas in the Armbrecht/Briskman Meeting Room and then head into Bernheim Hall at 6:30 p.m. for a special screening of the documentary, Apollo 11. Following the film screening, if weather permits, the Mobile Astronomical Society will set up their telescopes for a Moon viewing. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament Dauphin Island, AL The Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament is designed to bring families together and encourage sportsmanship. The tournament takes place on the Saturday before the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. RMYAT is for children 15 years and younger and it typically attracts more than 1,500 young anglers. /adsfr.com/rmyat/

Sunday July 14

Summer Classic Movie Series ($6 for adults; $3 for children 12 & under and seniors (60+))

Monday July 15

Kindergarten Countdown (Free) 11:00 AM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Details July 1. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday July 16

Hands-on History Workshops ($15 for the first child

and each additional child will receive a $5 discount per workshop. FREE with a Family Membership. )

10:00 AM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Jam to music of the 1960s, and design your own album cover – featuring the Museum’s “Sensational 60s” exhibit! (251) 208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Wednesday July 17

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Details July 10. 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

Thursday July 18

Hands on History at the Library (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Fun for the entire family! The History Museum of Mobile will offer history based activities to explore our past through hands on creative projects. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Springhill Medical Center’s For Boys Only Class 6:00 PM Gerald L. Wallace Conference Center (4th Floor, Building 2), 3715 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 3608 Boys ages 10 and older can hear Dr. John Sands, pediatrician with Pediatric Associates, discuss the physical changes to be expected as boys mature. Also, he will provide information on what girls are experiencing at the same age. Light meal provided. Cost: FREE! Call 460-5447 to make a reservation. Please leave a message with your son’s name and the parent who will accompany him in the class. 251-460-5447 Free Family Movie Night (Free) West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 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! townofdauphinisland.org

Friday July 19

Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island, AL The 86th Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 19-21, 2019. The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, a Project of the Mobile Jaycees, is the largest fishing tournament in the world. adsfr.com

Free Family Movie Night (Free) West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 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! townofdauphinisland.org

www.mobilebayparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Saturday July 20

9th Annual Dauphin Street Vault 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM, Downtown Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL, 36602 The Dauphin Street Vault (DSV) is a not-for-profit grassroots event to raise awareness for the pole vault and create an opportunity for spectators to see the event up close. Whether you’re competing in the event or just watching, you’ll enjoy the block party atmosphere. www.dauphinstreetvault.org Children’s Business Fair 10:00 AM Semmes Community Center, 10141 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Observe the opportunity for children to launch their very own startup business! Children develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy, and then open for customers at our one-day marketplace. Participants must be between 6 and 18 years of age. Prizes will be awarded in age categories (6-10, 11-14, 15-18). Christmas in July Boutique Bash 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 Christmas will be here before you know it. Christmas in July Boutique Bash will help you get a head start on all of your shopping. This will be a fantastic day of shopping, food, and fun! We will have food trucks, shopping , photos with Santa for the littles, and so much more. Enjoy shopping many boutiques and businesses from the Mobile and surrounding areas all while supporting Whatever Ministry! Something Special for Saturday (Free) 10:30 AM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Calling all children, ages 5 and Up! Join us as we make our Unpoppable Dry Ice Bubbles. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Apollo 11 - 50th Anniversary Celebration 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Apollo 11 - 50th Anniversary Celebration 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Giant Leap Storytime (Free) 1:00 PM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Parkway Mobile, AL, 36605 Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo II mission to the moon with stories, crafts and surprises! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island, AL The 86th Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 19-21, 2019. The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, a Project of the Mobile Jaycees, is the largest fishing tournament in the world. adsfr.com

Sunday July 21

Summer Classic Movie Series ($6 for adults; $3 for children 12 & under and seniors (60+))

3:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This summer, the SMG-managed Mobile Saenger Theatre will once again showcase a Summer Classic Movie Series featuring classic hit movies the way they were meant to be seen: larger-than-life on the glorious BIG screen! July 21 – A Star is Born (1976) www.mobilesaenger.com Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island, AL The 86th Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 19-21, 2019. The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, a Project of the Mobile Jaycees, is

a variety of kids entertainment options to come on the beautiful riverfront of downtown Mobile. www.mobilebaykeeper.org/bay-bites

the largest fishing tournament in the world. adsfr.com

Monday July 22

Summer Storytime - Shoppes at Bel Air (Free) 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Fountain Area - Shoppes of Bel Air, Mobile, AL, 36606 Parents can bring their children to join Cherold Rhodes with the Mobile Public Library at the fountain area for stories, songs and activities. Storytime is open to all ages and is free of charge. Juice and a snack will be provided. On a Mission with David Griffin 6:30 PM The Steeple on St. Francis, 251 St Francis Street Mobile, AL, 36602 On June 18, 2007, nine firefighters perished in a furniture warehouse fire in Charleston, South Carolina. The engineer of the firstarriving engine, David, relates how this experience has changed education and training on a national level. David gives a riveting account of what he witnessed that day and the crisis that ensued in the fire service and his personal life, as well. www.thesteeplemobile.com

Tuesday July 23

Hands-on History Workshops ($15 for the first child

and each additional child will receive a $5 discount per workshop. FREE with a Family Membership. )

10:00 AM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Explore 1960s Pop Art, then make your own Pop Art print – featuring the Museum’s “Sensational 60s” exhibit! (251) 208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com Interstellar Story Hour (Free) 10:00 AM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Parkway Mobile, AL, 36605 Family Fun! Blast Off with us at the Parkway Branch for out of this world stories, crafts and surprises! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

On a Mission with David Griffin The Steeple on St. Francis, 251 St Francis Street Mobile, AL, 36602 On June 18, 2007, nine firefighters perished in a furniture warehouse fire in Charleston, South Carolina. The engineer of the first-arriving engine, David, relates how this experience has changed education and training on a national level. David gives a riveting account of what he witnessed that day and the crisis that ensued in the fire service and his personal life, as well. Times: 9:30am, 6:30pm www.thesteeplemobile.com

Wednesday July 24

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org Table Top Quidditch (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for a Quidditch Tournament! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Bay Bites Food Truck Festival 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 Bay Bites is an annual food truck festival benefiting our work for clean water, clean air, and healthy communities. Enjoy delicious food from the area’s best local food trucks, craft beer and wine, live music, lawn games, and

Thursday July 25

Friday July 26

Brown Bag Matinee (Free) 12:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Bring a brown bag lunch or snack and enjoy a movie at the Library! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Chilling Sounds & Crafternoon: Audio Book Club & Crafting (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Enjoy listening to a chilling Goosebumps story while doodling or making cool crafts. Arts and craft supplies provided. Ages 8 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Harry Potter Potions Class (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Learn how to create your very own bubbly concoctions. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Free Family Movie Night (Free) West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 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! townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday July 27

3rd Annual Gulf Coast Exotic Animal Expo ($5

(children under the age of 12 enter for free))

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Abba Temple Shrine, 7701 Hitt Rd Mobile, AL, 36695 The South Alabama Cage Bird Society is excited to announce the 3rd annual Gulf Coast Exotic Animal Expo! This year’s event will feature birds, reptiles, and mammals. www.facebook.com/gceae/ 6th Annual Kid’s Day Event 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Tillman’s Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Rd Mobile, AL, 36619 A day of FREE fun and activities that the whole family can enjoy. www.swmcchamber.com Harry Potter Birthday Party (Free) 10:30 AM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for a special Harry Potter birthday celebration! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Superpower Dog Days with Alabama Task Force K9 Team 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for a look into the real world of Search and Rescue K9 training in conjunction with our summer IMAX film, Superpower Dogs! 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com

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FamilyCalendar 4th Annual Love U Love U Day (Free) 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 School shoes, uniforms, supplies, and socks will be given away to anyone in need. Come out and enjoy free food, games, music, and great door prizes. Physicians will be onsite providing free medical, dental, vision, and mental screens and exams for kids, parents, and seniors. The Mobile Sports Hall of Fame will have members on site signing autographs. loveuloveu.org

Sunday July 28

3rd annual Gulf Coast Exotic Animal Expo ($5

(children under the age of 12 enter for free))

3:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This summer, the SMG-managed Mobile Saenger Theatre will once again showcase a Summer Classic Movie Series featuring classic hit movies the way they were meant to be seen: larger-than-life on the glorious BIG screen! July 28 – Dirty Dancing www.mobilesaenger.com Town of Dauphin Island Sunday Sunset Concert

($5 per person (ages 12 and under free))

6:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island Sunset Concerts. townofdauphinisland.org

vations are required to attend, so be sure to make your reservation early for this one-of-a-kind workshop! 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

Sunday August 4

Summer Classic Movie Series ($6 for adults; $3 for children 12 & under and seniors (60+))

3:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This summer, the SMG-managed Mobile Saenger Theatre will once again showcase a Summer Classic Movie Series featuring classic hit movies the way they were meant to be seen: larger-than-life on the glorious BIG screen! Aug. 4 – Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone www.mobilesaenger.com Pelican Paddle 9:00 PM - 12:00 PM, Weeks Bay Reserve, 11300 U.S. Highway 98 Fairhope, AL, 36532 251-990-5004 weeksbay.org/events/pelican-paddle/

Every Monday thru July

Summer Movie Monday (Free) 10:00 AM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Parkway Mobile, AL, 36605 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Tech Time (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us as we explore the world of technology through a variety of projects and resources. Ages 8 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Saturday thru July

Market in the Park 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 www.ncsmobile.org

Cheers to Children 6:00 PM El Papi, 615 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 36602 EL Papi will host this wine tasting, along with samples of their signature dishes. The event also includes a live and silent auction and music by Harrison McInnis. This event benefits the Child Advocacy Center. 251-432-1101 www.cacmobile.org

Art & Rhyme Wiggle Time Storytime (Free) 10:30 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Simple stories and music introduce the sounds and rhythms of language and play to your little learner. Join us for a wiggle, rhyme, read and sing, active story time – and a craft too! Ages 18 months-3 years. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday July 30

Every Thursday thru July

Monday July 29

Hands-on History Workshops ($15 for the first child

and each additional child will receive a $5 discount per workshop. FREE with a Family Membership. )

10:00 AM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Examine some of the Museum’s wackiest artifacts and documents in a behind-the-scenes look at museum life. (251) 208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Wednesday July 31

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home ($43 for members; $40 for the children of

members ages 5-12; $56 for adult non-members; and $48 for non-members ages 5-12.)

10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Go behind the scenes of Bellingrath’s famous Magic Christmas in Lights show and learn how you can create your own magic from our experts. Guests may select a metal frame created by our team and then learn how to attach lights to decorate the piece. All materials will be supplied and are included in the cost of the program. A salad/sandwich buffet lunch is also included. Space is limited and reser-

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019

Out of This World Movies (Free) 10:30 AM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, AL, 36571 Movie - Muppets from Space www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Market in the Park for Summer 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Lavretta Park, 200 Parkway West Mobile, AL, 36608 251-208-1550 www.specialeventsmobile.org

Every Tuesday thru July

Family Bingo Night (Free) 6:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Calling All Families! Come play Bingo at the Library! Prizes will be awarded and lemonade and popcorn will be served. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org A Universe of Stores (Free) 10:00 AM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Come enjoy stories, songs movies and so much more! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday Matinees (Free) 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Tuesday movies www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Movie Time with Mr. Butch (Free) 1:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Summer Boredom Buster (Free) 2:00 PM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, AL, 36571 Looking for something fun to do on Tuesdays this summer? Join us in creating Alien Spaceships, Moon Rocks and so much more! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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Teen Art Space (Free) 2:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Join artist Jaime Lee and her guest presenters each week to explore different art forms and create unique pieces of art. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Tinker Tuesday (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Design & Create. Learn how to make a Space Suncatcher. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Wednesday thru July

Teen Hang Out (Free) 3:30 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us in the new Teen Space each week for gaming, journaling, maker projects and all kinds of cool activities! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Movie of the Week (Free) 10:00 AM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Summerflix (Free) 1:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Classes/Meetings APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, 445 Azalea Road. Parent, Youth/Teen Group and Childcare Is Provided. Topic Discussions & ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information please call 251-4602727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@childrensaid.org. 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 oneon-one breastfeeding help. Get to know other moms within the same community

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FamilyCalendar and possibly become a mentor. Breastfeeding professionals are able to provide newborn weight checks before and after feeding to help you to know if your baby is getting enough to eat. Nurses and other medical personnel can answer general questions. All are welcome, even if you haven’t delivered yet. Spouses and other support partners are also welcome. Every Monday from 5:30 pm to 7 pm and Thursdays from 9 am to 11 am. (Except major holidays). We meet at The Allen Cox Building Conference Room, 205 Lambert Avenue, Mobile. 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

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anomaly (such as Trisomy 13, Trisomy 18, skeletal dysplasia, anencephaly) or had a baby that only lived in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Our families are from all over the Gulf Coast and all have beautiful stories to tell. 1st Tuesday of every month, 5:30pmuntil. Dinner is served. Meets in 1st floor conference room of Strada Center, 1601 Center Street, Mobile. Contact information: Rene Sprague RN, MSN rgilstrapsprague@health.southalabama.edu 251-6105264. Please RSVP if you plan to attend. Circle Of Hope, Sexual Assault Support Group Group meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Call Lifelines Counseling Services to schedule a 30 minute appointment before attending the group 251-431-5100. COH is a support group for victims of sexual violence to share in their struggles and learn ways to begin to cope with the pain and daily stressors that trigger the hurt. This group is free to attend. The Family Center The Family Center’s classes in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH minimum 24-HOUR RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. All classes provide a certificate of completion. The Family Center of Mobile *Nurturing Parenting course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Call 251479-5700 to register. *The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. See daily listings for class topics. *Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 weeks. *Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (Four things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. *Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks.251-479-5700 for information on

all Family Center classes. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. www.familycentermobile.org or www.Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile. La Leche League Mobile Bay Area Breastfeeding support meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Meetings are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader. 251-6892085, 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 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 251-266-1749. 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 4612438.

• Breastfeeding Class One Wednesday per month. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Family Center. Benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, going back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation Classes Four consecutive Mondays (6:30-9 p.m.) at The Family Center. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units.Cost: $25 if delivering at Springhill Hospital. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation: Accelerated Course: One Saturday per month. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The Family Center. Ideal for those who live out of town or will be delivering soon. $25. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings: Noon on the First Sunday of the month. Join us for an individualized tour and instruction for siblings ages 9 and younger. The event includes a tour of the maternity areas and tips on helping parents with the new baby. Parents must remain with their children. 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 251-415-1685 or at www. usahealthsystem.com/usacwh. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Classes are free if you are delivering at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital. All classes will meet in the 1st floor conference room next to the surgery waiting room. 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. . You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Offered monthly from 9 am to 2 pm. • Childbirth in a Nutshell: This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets one Wednesday per month, 6-8:30 p.m. • Breastfeeding: This two-hour class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Classes meet one Thursday per month from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and one Saturday per month from 10:00-Noon. • Classes on Preeclampsia, Developmental Milestones, Child Safety/Head Injury and Infant Safety are also available throughout the year. Call for details.

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

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Men in Black: International

The Secret Life of Pets 2

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: CViolence: C Sexual Content: BProfanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ Ever since she saw her parents get memory-wiped by the Men in Black as a child, Molly (Tessa Thompson) has been searching for the shadowy organization that regulates alien activity on Earth. Once she finds them and joins up, she realizes that things are far more dangerous than she realized. Now codenamed Agent M, she teams up with Agent H (Chris Hemsworth) to find a mole deep in Men in Black’s London office. I may see a lot of movies, but it’s a really bad sign if I can accurately predict the entire plot of the movie in the first ten minutes. It’s so formulaic I actually started second guessing myself at one point, thinking “Surely, no one is unironically following this tired premise so faithfully. There must be a twist coming!” Tragically, there wasn’t. The movie just plods along down the familiar path with no new twists, turns, or anything to spice up the bland monotony of it all. If they can stand the boredom, parents will find a few other issues to be concerned about. Surprisingly for a movie about fighting aliens, the violence is less graphic than previous entries in the franchise. The profanity is also milder. The sexual content isn’t graphic, but it is uncomfortable. Both instances of notable sexual language or behavior are in coercive situations, and the coercive nature of those actions is never discussed or addressed in any meaningful way. For the most part though, this is a harmless popcorn flick. It may be devastatingly dull, astoundingly unoriginal, and generally pointless, but it isn’t outright offensive. There are just much better ways to spend your time.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: A Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B The film opens with Max (voiced by Patton Oswalt), the lovable and mildly neurotic star of the prequel. Max’s anxiety really takes off when his owner marries and has a baby, giving Max a consuming need to protect the infant from all dangers, real or imagined. Max’s owner takes him to the vet, where he is fitted with a “cone of shame” to stop his stress-induced compulsive scratching. And then, when the family heads off for a family vacation, Max is forced to confront a whole new set of potential dangers. Max isn’t alone in a perilous world...his fellow apartment dwellers are facing their own challenges. As if juggling two plots isn’t enough, this production adds a third, which is probably one too many for young viewers. Snowball the rabbit (voiced loudly and irritatingly by Kevin Hart) is convinced he is a superhero and gets recruited by Daisy to rescue a lion cub from a circus where he is being mistreated. And this plot is where the movie goes over the cliff. I assumed this movie was aimed at young children, but there is far too much violence in this plot for kids. The owner of the circus whips the tiger, shoots him with a tranquilizer gun, threatens him with a revolver and a taser, repeatedly vows to turn animals into coats or rugs, and sets wolves on other animals. As Max says, “You never know what life is going to throw at you. You have two choices: run from it or run at it.” Ironically, The Secret Life of Pets contains too much violent content for young viewers who need to hear that message.

Dark Phoenix

Run the Race

(DVD) MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: ASexual Content: A+ Profanity: A+ Alcohol / Drug Use: ARun the Race is the “based on a true story” narrative of Zack and Dave Truett (Tanner Stine and Evan Hofer), and their journey out of their small Florida town, Bessemer, to college football. The two high school boys have lost their mother and are estranged from their alcoholic father. They play sports during the day and stock shelves during the night to take care of themselves and each other. The younger brother, Dave, is no longer quarterback for the high school team as he suffered a severe injury in the previous season and still has occasional seizures. But Zack is the star and hometown hero - a running back with big plans to get himself and his brother out of their “swamp” town. However, the plan goes awry when Zack is injured at a teen party after a fight breaks out, and he is benched for the rest of the season, unable to catch the eye of college football scouts. The boys transition their hopes of “getting out” from football to track. Dave gets cleared by his doctor to compete for the high school team, and the tables turn. Dave’s the new star, winning track meets, trying to position himself for a track scholarship. While the road to success continues to be fraught with significant obstacles, the boys find a way by turning to each other, and to God, to find strength. Run the Race accomplishes what no other Christian film I’ve seen has: it is authentic, charming, has a good script, great music, compelling acting, and skillful editing. The relationships are grounded and sweet; the dialogue is genuine; the spirituality feels real. There is room for pain, doubt and disappointment that feels genuine.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: A Profanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: BOn a mission to save the crew of the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the X-Men encounter a massive wave of...something in space. Although they rescue the crew, Jean Grey (Sophie Turner) doesn’t make it out of the shuttle in time and is hit by the anomaly. When the wave passes, the rest of the X-Men find her floating in space, as healthy as ever. Upon their return to Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters, they realize Jean might not be as well as she seems, and worse still, her powers might be growing out of control. There are quite a few things I liked about this film. For one, this is the only X-Men movie that confronts Charles Xavier’s (James McAvoy) manipulative behavior and its consequences in any depth. Dark Phoenix also takes a more compassionate view of Erik Lensherr, aka Magneto (Michael Fassbender), who has been a dubiously relatable villain in the past. On the downside, the film’s pacing is a bit wonky. The first two acts feel reined in, not slow exactly, just taking their time with the characters and subjects. By act three, things speed up, but rather than giving a sense of accelerating intensity, the movie just starts to feel rushed. Maybe that’s part of the reason I found it vaguely unsatisfying. Parental concerns are going to be about the same as with other superhero movies, with violence being the primary issue. This film is slightly more graphic than some others in the franchise – leading to its very appropriate PG13 rating. And although it gets an automatic C grade from us for having one extreme profanity, there’s very little other cussing. Mobile Bay Parents I July 2019