Mobile Bay Parents June 2019 by KeepSharing

June2019 22

Volume 9 Number 3

34 Columns 84

Publisher’s Note 4

Therapeutic Parenting

Common Sense Media Six surprising apps kids can use for chatting.

Dad’s Rock

Sonia Martin, LMSW

The value of supportive dads and father figures.

Kids Health Watch sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

30 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

Avoid the Summer Slide

Great activities to keep their brains sharp all summer long.

Summer Fun Guide

Activities abound in and around Mobile to keep kids learning, while having tons of fun.

Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

Departments On The Cover Cooper Watson Graham (3), son of Matt and Lori Beth Graham and little brother to Tate (10) and Cole (7). Proud grandparents are Steve and Renee Graham, and Dan and Terry Watson. Cooper loves playing outside, throwing a ball, and playing with trains and trucks.

Bits and Pieces 9

School Bits 48

Family Calendar 56

Movie Reviews

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FromthePublisher

Mobile Bay Mobile Bay’s Foremost Parenting Source

Ahhh...summer break. After the mad rush of May, it is nice to not have to worry about homework, school projects and late nights studying for final exams. Our family is certainly looking forward to some fun in the sun, and some much needed R&R. We usually spend the first week or so just recouping and resting, then dive right into the summer activities. What does summer look like in your home? Some of you may have family vacations planned while others are packing and preparing to send their children off to camp. These are both very exciting activities, but with almost three months of summer break, there will still be plenty of time to enjoy many of the family friendly activities available in the area. To help your family put together a game plan for your summer we have included a Summer Fun Guide on page 40. Here you will find pages and pages of places to visit where you can enjoy some family time. Included are outdoor activities like waterparks, music festivals, zip lines and more. And with all the summer showers down South, we naturally included an Indoor Fun section, too. This list is sure to keep your family entertained all summer long. One of my favorite summer activities growing up was always Vacation Bible School. I looked forward to it for weeks leading up to the kickoff. My girls were the same way. We have always loved everything about VBS from the skits to the crafts to the contagious upbeat atmosphere. Not to mention the awesome feeling we got once we finally mastered the motions to all the songs. If you are looking for a VBS for your kids, make sure you turn to page 32 where you will find our VBS Guide. With so much to do this summer, where do you start your planning? With three children close in age, I was always tempted to sign them up for the same activities. That would definitely be the easiest thing to do. However, since every child can be so different, it is important that we try to involve them in activities that target any special interests they may have. As you are making your plans, check out Christina Katz article, Schedule Local Summer Activities & Avoid The Summer Slide. She offers great advice to help your child get the most out of summer. June not only marks the beginning of summer, but also the month we take time to recognize all the dads who contribute so much to our childrens’ lives. But Father’s Day does not have to be limited to just “Dads”. You can also use this day to show appreciation to other male role models who play an important part in your child’s life, like a grandpa, uncle or close family friend. In Christa Hines article, Dad’s Rock, she sites several examples of how male role models are getting involved to make a difference and the impact their involvement has on children. These special guys, along with dads, deserve a day when we can say “thank you”. Here’s to summer! I hope you and your family have an amazing season filled with family, laughter and memory-making moments.

Lynn

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@mobilebayparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@mobilebayparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Lucy Green Contributing Writers Jennifer Adair, M.D. Mark Gregston Christa Melnyk Hines Christina Katz Sonia Martin, LMSW 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

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 June 2019

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.

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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LMSW

Fill Their Bucket My 17-year-old twins and I have recently been watching old episodes of Survivor. It’s big fun. I now have a pretty good understanding of how to make a fire with or without flint, I know how to skin a rabbit – a skill which will remain completely under utilized in my life – and I know how to align myself with individuals who will claim to care, yet turn around and blind side me at the next tribal council. Some great teachable moments we have been having around here as the school year winds down. We could have been prepping for ACT’s in the fall, but in my sage parenting decision making, we have opted to watch people run around an island eating scorpions to abate their hunger. I am clearly winning at parenting. There was an episode recently wherein all of the contestants had to fill a bucket (that was riddled with holes) with water, traverse over numerous obstacles while attempting to plug said holes, and eventually dump whatever remaining water was in the bucket into a container, which when full, would signal victory.

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

Since I can’t seem to even watch a television show without evaluating and clinically diagnosing people in situations, I offer you the following observation: Fill your child’s bucket. Fill it often. Fill it much. Fill it when you don’t want to fill it. Fill it when they don’t deserve it. Fill their bucket. One of the very best ways that I have found to remain relationally engaged with my nest full of teenage boys is to intentionally find ways to serve and love them well. Yes, I offer them a home full of warmth and pop tarts. Yes, I provide the new pair of baseball cleats each season, the braces that straighten the teeth and the cast when they fall off a golf cart and break their arm. I do all of that. But what I’m talking about is going beyond our “have to’s” and intentionally finding ways to “get to” love them well. Allow me to illustrate. Sometimes I will (gasp) clean their room for them, without following that up with a lecture on how many dishes I found under the bed. Sometimes if I am out running errands, I will periodically drop off a favorite snack or milkshake at the school office. I might have their favorite smoothie

ready for them when they walk in the door from baseball practice with an encouraging note. Whatever it is, in whatever way works for you and your family, find ways to pour some water into that bucket. This world has a way of poking more and more holes into the life of your child. They are navigating innumerable obstacles as they grow and learn and lead. Let us be the ones pouring into them regardless of how much we think they deserve it. Because, if I may, that’s where we tend to go a bit off the rails. We tend to think that we should withhold that water unless they act or behave in a way that is acceptable to us, when in all actuality – a child who is struggling needs a cup of water way more than a child who is feasting at the table. So, go grab a hose and start pouring. Survivors ready? Go! 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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Explore Mobile 2019 at Mardi Gras Park

The city of Mobile’s tourist attractions have come together to celebrate, again! Join the local attractions for the third annual Explore Mobile! Explore Mobile is Sunday, June 2, 2019 from 1:00 to 6:00 PM in Downtown Mobile in Mardi Gras Park. Enjoy live music, food, activities, as well free/discounted admission to the city’s tourist attractions. Attendees will be able to explore 300 years of Mobile History inside the History Museum of Mobile, experience Colonial life inside the walls of the Colonial Fort of Mobile, gaze upon the period rooms of the Conde-Charlotte Museum House, step back in time as they navigate the Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail and more! For more information or updates, please visit exploremobile.org

Third Annual Benefit Gala: Dinner with David and Sherman

Palmer Williams Group is hosting its Third Annual Benefit Gala: Dinner with David Palmer and Sherman Williams with Special Guest Speaker Stephen Davis, on June 27, 2019, at the Battle House Hotel. The purpose of this event is to raise funds to support our efforts in offering free youth development programs that include LifeSync Academy life skills programs, financial literacy clinics, and athletic youth and cheer camps, football and soccer teams. Please visit palmerwilliamsgroup.org for more information.

Summer Reading Celebration

Many of the local libraries have very exciting events and activities during the summer. Summer Reading Celebration - Movies, Activities, STEAM Projects, Clubs and more! We encourage you to visit your local library’s website for details! The Mobile Public Library Kick-off will be held at the Ben May Main Library and West Regional Library on Saturday, June 1 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. The FREE program runs from June 1 – July 31. Children can sign up any time during the eight weeks and are encouraged to set reading goals for the summer. Please visit our website, mobilepubliclibrary.org, for all the details on the fun activities planned at your favorite Library location!

Fuse Project's Annual Dragon Boat Festival

MPD S.W.A.T. Team’s Just for the Mud of It

On Saturday, June 8th, over 1500 paddlers and 10,000 spectators will witness Fuse Project’s Annual Dragon Boat Festival. Teams of 20 paddlers, 1 drummer, and an experienced steerer will rock the water in a 46-foot authentic Hong Kong style Dragon Boat at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park. Fuse Project’s Dragon Boat Festival is a family-friendly event. In addition to watching the races, Fuse Project will have food trucks, kid’s area full of activities, all of the wonderful exhibits at The Battleship and they usually have something “WOW" up their sleeves that you won’t want to miss! The funds raised from the festival will allow Fuse Project to continue to support tangible realistic projects that directly impact children in Mobile & Baldwin County. Please visit www.fuseproject.org for more information.

Are you tough enough to complete MPD S.W.A.T. Team's mud run/ obstacle course? Then join us for the 5th Annual "Just for the Mud of It" event on June 1. A 3-mile, 30 obstacle course full of mud, sweat and cheers. Finish the course to get your "Finisher" moral patch. Non-competitive run and kids run available. Kids run is approximately 1.2 miles with 15 obstacles. All kids age 7-12 should be able to do these obstacles. T-shirts and velcro patches will be given to all kids run participants. Please visit justforthemudofit. org for more information. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

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Kids Gulf Discovery Day at Bellingrath Gardens

Plan a day of summertime fun for the family! Come to Bellingrath Gardens and Home on Wednesday, June 12, for Kids Gulf Discovery Day, an opportunity for children of all ages to learn about the wildlife and ecology of the Gulf Coast. A wide variety of environmental organizations will be on hand for activities and demonstrations from 9 a.m. to noon. Children will get a close-up look at the creatures of Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s Touch Tables, and the Environmental Studies Center will present an exciting Raptor Road Show on the Great Lawn, featuring rehabilitated hawks, owls, ospreys and other birds of prey. The Raptor Road Show times are 9:15, 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. Guests may also take a 45-minute guided cruise along the beautiful Fowl River with our friends from Wild Native Delta Safaris (reservations required)! To register, call 251-459-8864. Kids Gulf Discovery Day admission, which includes entrance into the Gardens for the day, is $14 for adults and $8 for children ages 5-12. There is no admission fee for Bellingrath members or for ages 4 and younger. For details, visit our website, bellingrath.org.

Junior Achievement First Annual Business Plan Challenge for Young Entrepreneurs Members of Mobile’s entrepreneurial and business community came together to help judge a competition featuring some of the city's youngest entrepreneurs on Wednesday, April 24 in the Regions Bank Pharr Room in the RSA Tower. Five finalist teams from area high school students were given 15 minutes to present their full business plans of the company they created to the panel of judges. There was $2,000 in cash prizes up for grabs. First Place went to the team of Ariana Rivers and Blake Tufts of Baker High School; Second place went to the team of Michael Whatley and Kyle Cooper of Baker High School; and Third Place went to Kendall Davis & Waleed Saoud of Davidson High School. Michael Whatley and Kyle Cooper of Baker High School were The People’s Choice Award winners with the most likes on Facebook, winning a Regions bicycle. Other finalists were the team of Savannah Healy, Brianna Healy and Lyndsi Cully of Davidson High School and Ben McIntosh of Baker High School.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Measles Outbreak 2019 The entire country has been watchful over the increasing number of people being diagnosed with measles this year. Currently, 23 states have had a confirmed measles case, and 839 people total have had the measles this year in the United States. Presently Alabama has not had anyone diagnosed with the measles, thankfully. We have not seen this disease much at all in our lifetime, so many people generally do not know what to look for or what to worry about when it comes to measles, so that is what we will be discussing. Measles is still very common in other countries around the world, especially in developing countries in Africa and Asia. It is a highly contagious virus, so there is no medication to rid the body of this virus faster. Measles is so contagious that if a person is exposed to the measles and has not had the vaccine or has caught the measles previously, there is a 90% chance that person will catch the measles. The measles is spread by droplets from an infected person’s sneezes, coughs, and saliva,

and it is actively contagious in those droplets for up to 2 hours. A person also does not show signs that he or she has the measles until 10-14 days after being exposed to it. This is why the CDC tracks the whereabouts of each individual with measles for 2 weeks prior to the diagnosis and uses local news stations to make the public aware. So what does measles look like and why do doctors worry about it? The measles starts out with runny nose, cough, fever, red eyes, and very specific spots in the mouth called Koplik’s spots. Then 3-5 days later a reddish-brown rash appears on the face and then spreads down the body. These symptoms usually last several weeks. The more severe problems to be worried about with measles is death, permanent hearing loss, brain infection, and pneumonia. The ones most susceptible to these complications are the immunocompromised people (ones on chemotherapy or have an organ transplant or an immunodeficiency) and children younger than 1 year old. Most other people will be miserable for

several weeks and likely require hospitalization, but will recover from the virus. There is no treatment for measles. There is only trying to prevent the measles, and currently the only way to do that is by a vaccine that most people get at ages one and four. In rare circumstances, such as international travel, an extra vaccine can be given as young as 6 months old, but currently Alabama is not requiring this extra vaccine time. If you are traveling out of state, look at the CDC website or talk to your doctor to see if any extra precautions should be taken. The news and your physician will keep you informed of any local concerns as well, but at this time Alabama is safe from the measles!

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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 SchoolsSt. Pius Students Ride

St. Dominic Students Present Living Stations of the Cross

in Open Cockpit Bi-Plane

Each year, St. Dominic Catholic School eighth grade students present Living Stations of the Cross for the student body and also members of St. Dominic Parish. This year the stations were presented through the eyes of a student. It was a moving representation and a beautiful way to experience the path Jesus bore on his way to the crucifix-ion. Pictured are Andrew Baldwin (as Jesus), Lilli Midgette (as Mary), Hannah Peacock (as the student), and Heath Whigham (as John).

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n. 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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Covenant Christian Students Take Mission Trip to Mexico

Covenant Christian Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 8th grade students had the privilege to go to Reynosa, Mexico, to serve at Big Heart Orphanage. We had 19 people that went to serve by pouring concrete for new sidewalks and investing in the children. We are proud and thankful to have students with servant hearts and a willingness to work in 40-degree rainy weather!

Allentown Running Club End of Year Party

St. Ignatius Holds School-Wide Retreat Day

Allentown Elementary Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Running Club celebrated with an End of the Year Party. They enjoyed an evening of eating pizza and bowling.

St. Ignatius students had a school-wide retreat day on April 18, Holy Thursday. During the retreat day, the older students were able to spend some time with their younger buddies. This group of ladies are 7th graders with their 4th grade buddies. Pictured are Isabella Benge, Anna Witt Cooke, Amy Claire Murphy, Abigail Clark, Emma O'Neill, Claire Elebash, Lilly Kidder, Caitlin Miller, Frances Muscat and Claire Mostellar. 9

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Autauga County Schools

UMS-Wright Scholastic Team Goes Undefeated!

UMS-Wright is so proud to commend our Middle School Scholastic Team on their accomplishments this year! These students went undefeated in the regular season, and just recently finished runner-up in the Alabama Scholastic Challenge Association Super Tournament! Pictured L to R: Ameen Shaik, Virginia Ladd, Paul Murray, Will Kittrell, Stephens Ashbee, William Neumann and Coach Mrs. Smilie!

Causey Student Wins Middle School It Starts with Me Award

Congratulations to Sam Gaston of Causey Middle School who won the middle school It Starts With Me award. Sam was selected among all of the middle school It Starts With Me winners as the overall winner at the It Starts With Us Banquet in May at Murphy High School. Sam is a student leader at Causey Middle participating on the award winning robotics team and the baseball team. He also serves as a peer leader with special needs students and is an ambassador for our school.

MGM Shows Appreciation for Their Teachers

In recognition of Teacher Appreciation Week, MGM organizations and personnel including PTO, administration, leadership, and others showered teachers with tokens of appreciation including snacks, lunches, coffee and donuts, and handwritten letters from students. MGM appreciates all teachers do for students both inside and outside the classrooms.

Semmes Students Take FIRST Place at State History Day Competition

Burns Robotics Team Wins First Place at Competition

Thanks to Mrs. Atchison and her leadership with the Burns Middle School Robotics team. The Robotics team who won first place in the Middle School division at the Spring Robotics competition at The University of South Alabama. We are proud of you!

Davidson Wins USA Competition

Brooklyn Rowell, Matthew Prine, and Edward Sullivan's exhibits placed first in the junior group. Thank you, Mrs. Krystle Smith and Ms. Deborah Snowden, for sponsoring these students! Matthew Prine will be taking these projects to Washington DC to compete at the national level in June. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

The Davidson Warriors won first place at the first High School Pitch competition hosted by the Mitchell College of Business at the University of South Alabama. They also won Best in Show for the financial portion of their business plan. Their winning pitch was for more environmentally friendly bamboo utensils that can replace plastic utensils that take 1,000 years to decompose. 10

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MCPSS Alabama National History Day Award Winners

Mobile County Public Schools students brought several awards home from the Alabama National History Day held recently in Montgomery. In fact, 25 of the 41 students who placed in the top three of their category were MCPSS students. Students competed in a variety of categories, including exhibits, websites, documentaries, papers and performances. Clark-Shaw, Phillips, Burns, Causey and Dunbar had students place in the Junior Division, while Murphy, Baker, Blount, Mary G. Montgomery and B.C. Rain had top-three finishers in the Senior Division. Earning first-place honors in the junior division were: Wesley Hunt, Clark-Shaw (individual exhibit, pictured in the middle); Matthew Prine/Brooklyn Rowell/Edward Sullivan, Semmes (group exhibit); Marlan Zha, Phillips (individual website); Sarah Bailey/Alyssa Rodgers, Causey (group website); Starlyn Fistein, Phillips (individual performance); Kennedy Bazor/ Cooper Irby/Saniya Manassa, Dunbar (group performance). Senior Division first-place winners from MCPSS schools were: Brelyn Crutchfield/Sofia Khan/Jessica Reese, Baker (group documentary); Megan Griffin/Sonja Hadder/ Kaytlin Thornton, Mary G. Montgomery (group exhibit); Chloe Duren, Murphy (individual website); Payton Hudson/Megan Jordan/Tithalia Lockett/Amber Rose Porteous, Murphy (group website); Daisy Ferrell, Blount (individual performance), Darien Bailey/Amaya Barnes/Kamryn Barnes/Demetrius Chambers Jr./Ariyana Wytch, B.C. Rain (group performance). A full list of all MCPSS students who placed in the top three in their respective categories can be found at mcpssthewire.com.

Teacher Appreciation Week at Allentown

Allentown Elementary was recently filled with fun activities using Dr. Seuss as the theme. The PTO provided the faculty and staff with snacks, breakfast, lunch, goodie bags, gift items, door prizes and competitions.

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR FALL 2019 ALL GRADES CALL (251) 445-2913 TO SCHEDULE A TOUR

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First Communion at St. Ignatius School

Autauga County Schools

St. Ignatius held 1st Communion for our 2nd grade students on May 5. All our 2nd graders and our Religious Education students studied hard all year preparing for this day. They had parents, grandparents, godparents and friends at Mass to celebrate with them. Pictured here is Fr. Bry Shields with Valentina Penaranda, Eileen Steele, Whitney Clark. Leighton Betbeze, Kate Muscat, Julia Partridge, Alemia Partridge and Marissa Esfellar.

Soccer Fun at Covenant Christian School

This year the Covenant Christian School Varsity soccer team had the opportunity to play both outdoor and indoor soccer games with a variety of different club teams in Mobile and Mississippi. What a great season the team had with everyone showing success and improvement on the field!

North Mobile Christian 8th Graders Visit D.C.

Our wonderful 8th grade class at North Mobile Christian School was blessed to make a trip to Washington, D.C. They learned about many of the country's monuments, laws, and history. We are so proud of our students and grateful that we can take opportunities to teach our students with real life experiences.

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E.R. Dickson Science Fair Winners

Congratulations to the E.R. Dickson Elementary 2018 – 2019 Science Fair Winners: Earth and Space Science: 1st Place – Anthony Meola, 2nd Place – Aiden Slaby, 3rd Place – Mackynzi McAlpine. Engineering: 1st Place – Conrad Otts, 2nd Place – Dwight Anderson, 3rd Place – Millie Wilson. Physical Science: 1st Place – Kierston Campbell, 2nd Place – Grayson Heath, 3rd Place – Jordan Green. Math and Computer Science: 1st Place – Tori Davidson, 2nd Place – Elizabeth Bunkley, 3rd Place – Anthony Jones. Life Science: 1st Place – Benjamin Seale, 2nd Place – Carrington Bridges, 3rd Place – Jasmine Gross.

MGM Seniors Win VFW and Optimist Club Competitions

Congratulations to MGM seniors Mason O’Rourke and Lexie Smith for their success in local essay con-tests. Mason won the VFW Post 49 and district audio recorded essay competition. Mason’s essay on this year’s topic “Why My Vote Matters” will now compete at the state level. Lexie’s essay on “When the World Solves All Its Problems, Will Optimism Still Be Necessary?” placed first in the Optimist Club essay competition hosted by the Midtown Optimist Club. Lexie was honored by the Midtown Optimist Club at a luncheon at Azalea City Golf Course where she delivered her essay to club members and guests. Congratulations to both Mason and Lexie and good luck as your essays compete at the next level. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

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Studying Phases of the Moon at Little Flower

Learning about phases of the moon got even more interesting when students at Little Flower Catholic School used Oreos to investigate everything from full moon to quarter moon and new moon. Yum!

St. Luke’s Athletes to Compete at State Track Meet St. Luke's track athletes qualified for the state meet: Andrew Le (800M), Jake Keesee (shot put), Mike Winston (200M and 400M), Dylan Hale (Javelin) and Kennedy Johnson (100M and 400M). We are so proud of our Wildcats!

Field Day Fun at St. Dominic Catholic School

St. Dominic Catholic School's Annual Field Day was a great success this year! Students enjoyed a day full of games such as ball bounce, tug of war, relay races, the three-legged race, and many more. Pictured, Annabelle Hosemann after her 7th grade class won the tug of war against the other 7th grade class of girls! Thank you to all who helped make the day a success.

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!

Faith Academy Student Wins AISA Reading Competition

Faith Academy 6th grader, Ethan Bergman, won the AISA (Alabama Independent School Association) Reading Competition! He read over 31,000 pages this school year. This is the first year Faith Academy has had a student to win this honor. Way to Go Ethan!

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Prichard Prep Students Awarded Scholarships to Mobile Museum of Art Exhibit

Autauga County Schools

Prichard Preparatory School was honored to receive scholarships for all students to attend the Mobile Museum of Art exhibit, “For Children: The Elements of Art & De-sign.” The students had a great time and loved the exhibit! We would like to thank Kim Wood, Curator of Youth Education at the Museum, for providing the opportunity for our students to experience all the exhibit had to offer. As an example, students participated in an arts and crafts project by making City Scapes. Pictured are Kindergarten students Brycson Allen and Kinsley Bradley from Mrs. Crabtree’s class.

St. Mary Scholarship Winners

Congratulations to St. Mary Catholic 8th grade students, Maddie Sansbury, Nick Hewitt and Mallory Giardina for receiving scholarships to McGill-Toolen Catholic. Maddie and Mallory received St. Augustine Scholarships. Additionally, Mallory received the Sharp Family Memorial Technology Award for scoring the highest in English on the placement test. Nick received the Henry E. Reimer Academic Scholarship for scoring the highest overall on the placement test. St. Mary is Catholic School is very proud of these Mustangs!

Field Day at Mobile Christian School

On April 12th Mobile Christian had their elementary field day and leopard run. It was a day filled with fun. The students participated in relay races, visited several different booths and ended the day with the Leopard Run Event.

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CHCA’s Varsity Girls Soccer Advances to Final Four

ACCEL Academy Graduates

The Lady Warriors of Cottage Hill Christian Academy defeated Prattville Christian Academy 1-0 in Round 1 of the AHSAA playoffs. The victory gave the Lady Warriors their 1st playoff win in school history. CHCA went on to defeat St. Michael’s 2-1(3-0) in penalties in Round 2 of the playoffs to advance to the Final 4 in Huntsville. The Lady Warriors are now 17-4 on the season. Congratulations to the CHCA varsity girls.

ACCEL Day and Evening Academy’s second graduating class took the stage on May 21 to receive their diplomas. The 2019 graduating class nearly doubled in size from the 2018 graduating class! The faculty and staff at ACCEL Day and Evening Academy are incredibly proud of this growth and the students’ drive to succeed as they enter their next journey. Congratulations to all of this year’s graduates!

Burns Class Says Goodbye to Student Teacher

Mrs. Hardy's class celebrates their University of South Alabama student teacher Mr. Sheffield on his last day at Burns. They enjoyed him this semester and wish him success in his future endeavors.

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Autauga County Schools Collier Students’ Artwork on Display

Allentown Class Learns About Crime Investigation

Allentown’s PACE students welcomed Officer White from the MPD’s Crime Science Investigation Unit to share with them about the duties and responsibilities of being a Forensic Investigator. Officer White staged a mock crime scene to allow the students the opportunity to solve using the skills he taught them. The students also gained experience in learning the procedure to lift fingerprints.

at Local Library

W Students in Ms. Grimes’s art class at Collier Elementary School were chosen by the Bay Area Art Educators' Association to display their art at the West Regional Library Art Show May 2. Wow, what “unbelievable” talent these 4th and 5th grade students have! Pictured (back row) Juiahna Daigreport, Anniya Phillips, Mady-Kate Smith, Lauren Harwell, Kaley Cooley, Ms. Grimes, Meng Yao Du; (front row) Peyton Ray, Julian French, Baylee Grimes.

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Clark-Shaw Students Rank Among Top 10 in Nation on National French Exam

In February and March of this year, over 71,000 students nationwide took the National French Exam sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of French. A small group of 16 8th grade students at Clark-Shaw who are taking French I Honors for high school credit took the exam and several of them made national ranking. These rankings make Clark-Shaw Mag-net competitive with the best schools in the nation. Salihah Daffin and Alexa Lopez tied for number 3 in the nation and number 1 in the state of Alabama. Gabriel Gurt ranked number 4 in the nation and number 2 in the state of Alabama. Seth Mosely ranked 5th in the nation and 4th in the state of Alabama. Kayla Curry ranked 6th in the nation and 4th in the state of Alabama. Jonah Delange ranked 8th in the nation and 6th in Alabama. Sarah Geiger made a national ranking of 9 and a state ranking of 7. Ariana Madison will receive a bronze medal for ranking 11th in the state of Alabama. Emma Evans, Brooke Hamner, Samuel Nameniuk, and Emily Tea all received an award of Honorable Mention for their performance. All national rankers will receive either a gold or silver medal. Congratulations to these students and to their teacher, Sondra Maniatis. Pictured left to right: Seated: Samuel Nameniuk, Gabriel Gurt, Joseph Delange. Standing: Emma Evans, Seth Mosely, Alexa Lopez, Brooke Hamner, Emily Tea, Salihah Daffin, Kayla Curry, Arianna Madison, Sarah Geiger.

Semmes Middle Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Volleyball Team are County Champs

With Head Coach Davida Varner at the lead and Assistant Coach Lynda McNair adding her valued experience Semmes Middle School went on to win the Mobile County Championship. The county champions are: L-R #21 Braylyn Mullenax, , #10 Madison Hall, #15 Mikayla Baumgartner, #6 Sydney Himes, #13 Daysha Broughton, #14 Alyssa McCleland, #4 Aniston Cochran, #8 Chloe Hennis, #12 Laina Holliman, #5 Alyssa Trehern, #18 Amelie Wilson, #1 Morgan Davis, #22 Avery Wall, #7 Emma Cate McCrory, #9 Ivy Klezmer, #11 Loralee Faulkner, #2 Mayce Lyle, #19 Lillie Marler, #17 Kasey Highsmith, and Manager: Kristian McNeil.

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Autauga County Schools Spring Fest at St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic School

UMS-Wright Tennis Team Wins Championship

The UMS-Wright Girls' Tennis Team clinched the State Championship Title yet again! This is the 11th straight year that the Girls Tennis team has won the 4A, 5A, or 6A State Championship. This win marks 14 over all championships for Coach Meridy Jones! Pictured L to R: Tiana Dixon, Mary Frances Wood, Audrey Sewell, Brooke Swain, Martha Williams, Carol Murray, and Celeste Murray.

St. Luke's K2-8th grade celebrated their annual Spring Fest. The red and black ninja warriors battled all day, but the black team got the 2019 win! It was a beautiful day to have many types of relays, maypole, dunking booth, games, snow cones, Yellow Hammer, concessions, and our infamous tug o war battle!

St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Student Named Oakleigh Belle

St. Luke's student, Taylor Smith, was chosen to be an Oakleigh Belle. The Oakleigh Belles rep-resent the Historic Mobile Preservation Society. They serve as ambassadors by conducting tours through the Historic Oakleigh House and by participating in other special events in our community.

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

St. Dominic 2nd Graders Participate in Seder Meal

St. Dominic Catholic School second grade students kept the tradition of acting out the Last Supper and participating in a Seder Meal on Holy Thursday. It was a faith-filled day for the students and their families! Pictured are second grade teachers, Paige Moore and Emily Printz, along with their classes.

UMS-Wright Chorus Wins National Awards

Please join us in congratulating the UMS-Wright Chorus and Mrs. McCormick for placing 2nd in the Gold Division category at the NATIONAL competition they attended before Spring Break. Our choir was the smallest in number out of every school present and won the coveted Spirit of Atlanta Award. At the conclusion of the competition, 3 choirs were invited to next year's Carnegie Hall performance in New York and UMS-WRIGHT was one of them!

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

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Recognizing Staff at E.R. Dickson Elementary

Congratulations to E.R. Dickson’s Staff member of the month for May – Ms. Raymonda Parker, Pre-Kindergarten Paraprofessional and to the Teacher of the Month for May – Ms. Alexis Moran, 2nd Grade Teacher!

North Mobile Christian Holds Honor Society Induction

North Mobile Christian is very proud of our National Junior Honor Society members and new inductees! 20 new members join our chapter as we demonstrate scholarship, leadership, service, character, and citizenship. Thank you to the amazing parents and loved ones who came to celebrate this great achievement and keep up the hard work!

Faith Academy Student Elected as State SGA President

The AISA (Alabama Independent School Association) holds a state convention yearly for all the AISA Student Government Associations. At the convention every school has the opportunity to run for a state SGA office. Mason Jones of Faith Academy was voted by his peers in the AISA to be the 2019-20 State SGA president. This is a huge honor and is well deserved. Mason Jones and his fellow officers will be responsible for planning the charity outreach for the year and or-ganizing the fall workshop for all the SGA's in the AISA. Congratulations Mason Jones, Faith Academy c/o 2020!

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! 19

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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Autauga County Schools

Mobile Christian School Honor Society Inductions

Causey Students Win Awards at MCPSS Film Festival

Mobile Christian students in 7th & 8th grade were recognized for their academic success at an induction ceremony into the National junior Honor Society. Students in 10th, 11th & 12th grade were recognized for their academic success at an induction ceremony into the National Honor Society.

Congratulations to the Causey Middle School Tiger Tales production crew for an award-winning night at the annual MCPSS Film Festival. Causey students received 10 nominations in 6 categories. Causey Tiger Tales Broadcasting Team won 4 of 6 categories (Documentary, How-To, News Story, Drama) and brought back BEST IN SHOW (second year in a row).

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Cottage Hill Christian Academy Names New Head of School

Jeremy Sandefur has been named Head of School for Cottage Hill Christian Academy. For the last six years, Sandefur has been the Church Campus Director, which includes direct oversight of the middle school, elementary, preschool, and early education center. In his role as Head of School Mr. Sandefur will now lead a student body of 650+ students and a faculty and staff of over 75 employees, as well as facilities on two separate campuses. Sandefur came to Cottage Hill in June of 2013, and he has overseen remarkable growth in his areas of responsibility in his time as Church Campus Director. Sandefur said, “I am truly honored and humbled to lead such a wonderful institution. I wholeheartedly believe that the motto Faith, Family, Future that we use to describe our school culture is exactly who we are and the direction that we will faithfully pursue.”

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Field Day at Little Flower Catholic School

Great childhood memories are made on special days like Field Day. With races and games, the whole student body gets to compete for prizes and bragging rights. Thank you, Ms. Sha Buchanan, P.E. coach at Little Flower, for putting all the pieces in place for a successful event.

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Autauga County Schools Allentown

Elementary April GATOR Kids

Kindergarten â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2nd Grade Front Row: Victoria Friedrich, Bayleigh, Avery Walker, Chloe Howell, Zoe Cowart. Middle Row: Guiliana Sanchez, Kynleigh Weekley, Phoenyx Andrews, Mason Palmer, Elliot Gehlken. Back Row: Diolanda Diego, Gisell Wynn, Quentin Bruton, Dolan Orick, Simmie Yarborough, Brianna Patterson. 3rd â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5th Grade Front Row: Allen Green, Jazmyn, Micah Howard, Maddy Riggs, Easton Hubbard, Elyssa Sorensen, Michael Knightlinger. Middle Row: Shelby Burch, Kyla Barnett, Khloe Shaw-Watson, Peyton Wheat, Bryce McNair, Rogelio Domingo-Diego. Back Row: Madilyn Nurse, Hayle Johnson, Keyara Williams, Mitzi Howard, Ryan Freeman.

First Communion Mass at St. Mary Parish

St. Mary Parish held the annual First Communion Mass this spring. Congratulations to our beautiful second grade First Communicants who received this very special sacrament this in our Catholic Church. Thank you to all the teachers in both St. Mary Catholic School and in the St. Mary Parish CCD Program for the months of preparation!

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MCPSS State Science Fair Winners

Several Mobile County Public Schools students earned awards at the Alabama Science and Engineering Fair, held last month at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Murphy High School’s Vanessa Siggers (pictured) won the Senior Division American Society of Microbiology Award and was among the winners of the Boeing Engineers Award for her project: “Investigating the Bactericidal and Anti-Biofilm Effects of Naringenin on Enterobacter cloacae.” She also won the Cellular & Molecular Biology/Microbiology category. Her Murphy classmate Charity King won the Senior Division Dauphin Island Sea Lab Marine Environmental Sciences Consortium for her project, “Apple Snail Invasion.” Davidson High School’s Louisa Forbes won the Senior Division Award for Positive Community Impact and was among the winners for the Missile Defense Agency Award for her project, “The Investigation of Sustain-able and Convenient Methods of Generating Biofuels.” Davidson’s Raj Mehta won the Senior Division Biomedical & Health Sciences/ Translational Medical Science category for “The Effect of Different Dilutions of Pomegranate Juice, Pineapple Juice, Orange Juice and Coconut Milk on the Growth of HT29 and OVCAR8 Cancer Cell Lines.” Clark-Shaw Magnet had several students earn awards in the Junior Division: Madison Burckhartt was among the winners of the Broadcom Masters Award for “Saving Lettuce,” Salihah Daffin won the Gentry-Tinker Most Creative Scientific Award for “Elastic Plastic,” and Samuel Nameniuk won a U.S. Air Force Award for “Spinning Toward Efficiency.” Several other students from Murphy, Davidson, Baker and Mary G. Montgomery high schools and Clark-Shaw, Phillips Prep, Dunbar Magnet and Causey middle schools placed or earned honorable mention.

CCCS 8th Grade Scholarship Winners

Congratulations to the following Corpus Christ Catholic School 8th grade students who received awards from McGill-Toolen Catholic High School at their annual Scholarship Breakfast. These students have achieved academic success, and they are leaders in the school community. We are proud of their accomplishments! Henry E. Reimer Academic Scholarship: Lucy Cox. Herbert M. Zoghby, Sr. Scholarship: Saylor King. Keep the Faith Award - In Memory of Andre Colletti: Kate Lilley, Grayson Zoghby. St. Augustine Scholars: Stephen Quina, Emily Wynne. Pictured: Stephen Quina, Lucy Cox, Emily Wynne, Kate Lilley, Saylor King, and Grayson Zoghby.

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Autauga County Schools

MGM Senior Athletes Receive Scholarships

Congratulations to the following senior athletes who participated in MGMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Signing Day: Football scholarships were awarded to Gabriel Dorough, Belhaven University; William Brady Faessel, Mississippi College; and Joshua Martin, Belhaven University. Cheer scholarships were awarded to Alexis Duke, Southern Mississippi; and Baylee Wiggins, University of South Alabama. A cross-country/track scholarship to the University of South Alabama was awarded to Caleb Smith. A fishing scholarship to Faulkner University was awarded to Brandon Lee. A golf scholarship to Springhill College was awarded to Jeremiah Gibson. A track scholarship to the University of Montevallo was awarded to LaSteven Brown.

Prichard Prep Conducts National Elementary Honor Society Inductions

Prichard Preparatory School faculty, staff, parents and friends celebrated the induction of seven new students into the National Elementary Honor Society. The students are Elijah Agee, Jordyn Bassa, Elisha Brown, Catelynn Gill, Genesis McCants, Landon Phillips and Andre Pogue, Jr. To be selected for this impressive and prestigious honor, students must excel in Scholarship, Responsibility, Service and Leadership. PPS was honored to have Dr. Paige Vitulli as our guest speaker for the program. Dr. Vitulli is the Chair of Integrative Studies in the College of Education at the University of South Alabama. Her message was full of congratulations and encouragement for these students to continue making the right choices and doing the hard work that is necessary for success in life.

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

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St. Dominic Inducts New Members to Honor Society

Congratulations to our newly inducted members of the St. Dominic Catholic School Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society: Joe Barnett, Laura Boykin, Kathryn Bridges, Kenlie Diegan, Stewart Dunwell, Miriam Foster, Mamie Fromdahl, Grace George, James Griffis, Katie Hubbell, Henry Jarreau, Peter Jarreau, Isabella Jordan, Justin Lami, Anne-Marie Lancaster, Seth Lollar, Lee Peck, Joseph Ryan, Laurence Sangilan, Melina Towarnyckyj, Holli Trinh, Luke Gechijian, and Austin Quinlivan. These students have met the five established criteria of scholarship, leadership, service, citizenship and character. They are pictured with all current members of the NJHS.

Semmes Middle School Band Travels to Walt Disney World Our outstanding Semmes Middle School Band traveled in April to Walt Disney World. Mr. Hug-gins, the SMS band director, was excited to share his students’ musical and marching skills.

National Prayer Day at St. Luke’s

St. Luke's students were invited to come before school to pray for National Prayer Day on the upper campus. Many 6th-12th graders and parents prayed for our nation.

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

Allentown Participates in STEM Competition

Hutchens Elementary Named a Leader In Me Lighthouse School

5th grade Pace students at Allentown participated in Mobile County’s STEM Match UP Competition. Students participated in categories of robotics, weather, catapult, edible egg drop and school spirit. Allentown was awarded the 3rd place trophy. Joining the STEM team were several enthusiastic Kindergarten cheerleaders who led the team to win the overall School Spirit Award.

Several Mobile County public schools utilize the Franklin Covey Leader In Me program, which helps students develop leadership skills through “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”. The faculty at Hutchens Elementary School went through a three-year process to show that it has fully implemented Leader In Me principles at the school and to display the impact they’ve had on students there. “It’s such an honor just because we’ve worked so hard for it,” said Hutchens Principal Katherine Gallop. “It has impacted our whole school.” The designation was announced recently at the school’s annual Leadership Day, a student-led program where the school’s 20 clubs share performances, followed by a picnic where students can share with their parents what they’ve learned through the year as recorded in their leadership notebooks. “Right now we have 19 school-wide leadership roles – those are jobs our children can apply for and interview, and this year we hired 202 students to take care of things around the school that normally adults would do,” Gallop said. “They keep leadership notebooks, they’ve learned about goal-setting – they have goals for everything that we do – and so they’ve learned to achieve those goals.” Hutchens is only the second MCPSS school to achieve Leader In Me Lighthouse status, joining Pearl Haskew Elementary. 25

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May Crowning at St. Ignatius School

May Crowning is always a special day for our Kindergartners and our 8th grade girls. On this day we celebrate Mary. All our 8th grade girls participate by bringing flowers to the altar in honor of Mary. Three Kindergarten students are chosen from each home-room. They are escorted by three 8th grade students who crowned Mary. Pictured are Cate Wilber, Linen Ladd, Virginia Winsor, Annie Marshall, Maddie Lewis and Monroe Ladd.

Cottage Hill Announces New Boys’ Basketball Coach

Autauga County Schools

Faith Academy Receives Best of the Best Award at BCA Luncheon in Montgomery

The Business Council of Alabama and the Alabama Technology Network hosted the Alabama Manufacturer of the Year luncheon in Montgomery. At the luncheon, not only were small and large manufacturers recognized for their outstanding success, but they also recognized the Alabama State Champions of K-12 Manufacturing. The 2019 Best of the Best Award went to Faith Academy. Students were acknowledged for their application of the engineering design process, computer programming, computer-aided design, marketing using a brand promise, training in power tools and workshop safety. The students were able to interact with politicians and sponsors at the BCA luncheon and demonstrate the skills they acquired through the BEST Robotics competition. The students were also given the opportunity to let individuals, such as Alabama Superintendent of Education, Dr. Eric Mackey, drive their robot and were able to explain their design process to leading manufacturer's, such as Austal Communications Director, Craig Savage. Faith Academy was awarded 1st place BEST Award at South's BEST regional competition in Auburn. Alabama in December 2018. Pictured are Mrs. Sara LeCroy, Caleb Miller, Tony Naman, Britney Stringfellow, Macy Turner, Cammie Hearon, Logan Owens, Ben Howard, Noah Broadus and Ms. Holly Shaw.

Cottage Hill Christian is excited to announce the appointment of John Price as varsity boys basketball coach. Price joins Cottage Hill from St. Joseph Christian in Missouri. He served as Head Coach at Faith Academy from 2007-2016 where he led six teams to AHSAA Final Four appearances. Price has won 403 games during his 18 year career and has a .742 winning percentage. As a head coach he has led 15 of 18 teams to twenty win seasons, including three state championships and three state runner-up finishes. Price has led 11 teams to Final Four appearances during his career and has been named Coach of the Year nine times by various organizations.

Davidson Student Receives Scholarship

Skylar McVea recently earned a $1,500 scholarship through the T.A.L.L. (Tillman’s Corner Area Learning Leadership) program. This program is a project of the SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce and has given away over $30,000 in scholarships over the past five years. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

Causey Students Participate in AllState Band Concert

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Congratulations to these fine band members for representing Causey Middle School at the All-State Band concert. These students are (L – R) Zoey Kokoski, Bethany Kuehler, Ethan Walton, Quintarius Straight and Jessica Kuehler.

McT Students Selected for Flight Works of Alabama

These 6 McT students were among 25 juniors from Mobile County schools selected to participate in the inaugural Flight Works of Alabama workforce development training program, FlightPath9. During their senior year, these young men will complete a 9-month training program, earning valuable certifications. Upon graduation from McT and the FlightPath9 program, they will enter the Airbus FastTrack program as an employee of Airbus. Pictured from Left to Right: Jackson Faulk, Kendrick Thrash, Ben Vereen, Mason Goleman, Joe Ritchie, Andrew Bolton. 26

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North Mobile Christian’s Student of the Quarter

The Student of the Quarter Award for North Mobile Christian goes to Elyssa Messick. This award goes to an 8th grader who was selected by the faculty of North Mobile Christian School based on leadership, academics, and Christlikeness. Elyssa was voted as the Middle School Class President. She’s a member of the National Junior Honor Society and was selected as part of the Homecoming Court this year. She is A/B Honor Roll student who served as the captain of the NMCS Volleyball Team, which went undefeated this year. She was, also, selected to the All Conference Volleyball Team. She has led worship for Middle School Chapel and is part of the Student Leadership Team at Redemption Church.

Covenant Christian School Holds Themed Field Day

Our “Star Wars” themed Field Day was full of fun! Thank you to the physical education department and to all who participated to make this event possible. A special shout out to the BLUE TEAM for a job well done! “May the fun be with you!” 27

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Autauga County Schools

St. Mary Catholic Students Present Living Stations of the Cross

St. Mary Catholic School, under the leadership of St. Mary Religion Teacher Ashley Thompson, held the annual moving performance of the Living Stations of The Cross in Mime this Easter Season. The mime makeup is used to depict the emotion of the biblical characters so as to focus on the Passion of Christ and not the actors. St. Mary thanks all the middle school students, parents, and teachers who brought this event together including all performers and volunteers in costuming and set design.

McT Student Excels at Track at Field

McGill-Toolen Catholic HS Senior Hannah Daffin finishes out an amazing track and field career at McT with 2 state titles in the Shot Put and Discus. She has won 5 7A State Championships in the Shot Put in a row and holds the 7A record. She won every tournament she competed in her senior year and she will continue her amazing career in college with a track scholarship to Samford University.

Davidson Students Honored at Professional Meeting

The American Chemical Society (ACS), Mobile Local Section, High School Chemistry Awards were recently held at Spring Hill College. Davidson students Matthew Gillis and Trisha Agrawal were among the recipients and Davidson teacher, Mrs. Robin Stefurak, received the ACS Chemistry Teacher of the year.

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

Vocations Director Visits Little Flower Catholic School

Rocket-Launch Competition at Corpus Christi Catholic School

Fr. Victor Ingalls, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Mobile, visited Little Flower Catholic School. He concelebrated Mass with Fr. Andrew Jones, and then he spent the day visiting each of the classes at the school. He encouraged the students to imagine their lives 30 years from now, and asked how they would describe success at that age. He asked each student to be open to what God wants from them, even if it is not what the student might think they want for themselves.

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As part of their lesson on Newton's Laws of Motion, the 8th grade students at Corpus Christi Catholic School built rockets out of 2-liter plastic bottles and have a launch competition. The rockets are judged on how high they launch and how long they stay in the air. Congratulations to the winners of this year's competition: 1st Place - Grant McNally & Colin Grady; 2nd Place - Mykela Quinnie & Anna Vo; 3rd Place - Jase Alidor. Pictured: Jase Alidor, Mykela Quinnie, Anna Vo, Ms. Reese (middle school science teacher), Colin Grady, Grant McNally, and Ms. Barto (middle school social studies teacher). Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

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Cottage Hill Presents “Sing of His Glory” Musical

Cottage Hill Christian Academy’s K2-5th grade students presented “Sing of His Glory”, a special musical celebration of Christ, on April 18, in the Cottage Hill Baptist Church Worship Center. It was a great time of singing of God’s Glory and of CHCA students praising God our Savior and Redeemer.

St. Pius Enjoys Louisiana Field Trip 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.

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Davidson’s Andrew Okeke was one of 25 rising seniors from the Mobile area who were selected to be part of the first Flight Path 9 class with Airbus. The goal of the program is to create a pathway for city students to find work in the area’s growing aerospace industry. Governor Kay Ivey was on hand to personally congratulate each student selected for the program.

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June 11th-27th

Princess Camp Age 2 and 3 year olds

Gymnastics Meets Ninja is the entry level to the all-new sports discipline inspired by gymnastics, martial arts, obstacle training and freestyle movement. Class goals include listening skills, confidence, trying new things, working through frustration, and manners. We do all this through a strategic mix of skills and performance.

Days: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 5:45-6:30 p.m. Week One - Princess Elsa Week Week Two - Princess Cinderella Week Week Three - Princess Elena Week

Ballet Adventure Camp Age 4 and 5 year olds

Days: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 5:45-6:45 p.m. Week One - Greatest Showman Week Two - Mary Poppins Week Three - Moana

JoJo Hip Hop Camp Ages 6 and up

Days: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 6:30-7:30 p.m.

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Debbie’s School of Dance • 6429 Hillcrest Park Ct. • Mobile, AL • 251.633.9559 29

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6 Surprising Apps Kids Can Use to Chat with Friends

(The browser version doesn’t offer chat.) If you’re allowing your kid to use Instagram, the best thing to do is use restrictive privacy settings to limit the number of people who can find and contact your kid. These include making the account private, preventing people from replying to your stories, and turning off comments. To do this, click on your kid’s profile image, click on the three lines at the top of the screen, click Settings at the bottom of the screen, and then tap Privacy and Security.

You may be fine with your kid doing a little online socializing. But what if they’re chatting on sites and in apps that never occurred to you to spot-check or discuss because you thought your kid was just using them for homework, playing games, or watching videos? Now, direct messaging is the rule -- not the exception -- on most platforms. And, as usual, parents seem to be the last ones to know. Here are some of the popular platforms you may not have realized kids are using to chat.

Roblox. With 90 million monthly users, Roblox is a pretty happenin’ hangout spot. The developer encourages collaboration and connection and offers chat for all members. What you can do. All chat on Roblox is filtered, and players younger than 12 have stronger filters than older players. You can turn off chat as well as other friending and messaging options to limit conversation. But you can’t lock the settings, so kids can change them back. Go to your kid’s account and click Settings, then click Privacy. The chat settings are under Contact Settings.

Animal Jam. To sign up for this virtual world, a kid only needs to enter a username and password -- no parent approval required -- and they can chat immediately after creating a login. What you can do. Though Animal Jam uses filters and human monitors to keep a lid on iffy conversations, kids can be fairly inventive in getting around them. If you want to let your kid play on Animal Jam, it’s worth going through the step of registering your email address to access its free parental controls. You get three levels of chat ranging from pre-approved phrases to open chat, but you can’t limit their chatting to friends only.

Snapchat. Yes, “chat” is in the name, but this app got popular more for its disappearing messages, cool photo filters, and Snapstreaks than its chatting. Messages in Snapchat are automatically deleted after the recipient views them, unless the sender taps on them to save them. What you can do. Just like in Instagram, you can’t turn off chat but you can limit who can contact your kids and who can view their stories, which should reduce some conversation and make your kid’s overall screen time somewhat easier to manage. Go to the profile page and click the gear icon. Scroll down to “Who can” to enable privacy settings.

Google Docs. Although teachers have been aware of the problem, using Google Docs as a covert messaging app has finally gotten popular enough to get on parents’ radar. If your kid needs to use Google Docs for homework, they only need to share the document with someone to start chatting. What you can do. Chatting in Google Docs is mostly risky because it wastes time kids should be using to do actual work. But there have been some reports of kids cyberbullying other students in Google Docs shared for group projects -- partly because it’s a place no one would think to look for that kind of behavior. In general, you want to make sure your kid is using their time wisely and not getting caught up in idle chitchat or drama. If the chatting is getting out of control, you can remove people from a shared document. To do this, click the Share button and then click Advanced at the bottom of the window. Click the X next to the name of the person you want to remove. If the document was created by someone else and you don’t control, have your kid make a copy and not share it.

Waze. Waze is a mapping app, but it relies on people as well as traffic data to help you find routes to places, avoid congestion, and, yes, chat -- and not just about the traffic. Waze connects through Facebook and allows you to see where your friends are and coordinate arrival times to your destination. Because it reveals your kid’s location -- and not all of their Facebook friends are actual buddies -- there’s a risk kids can expose their whereabouts to people who really don’t need to know. What you can do. Use Waze with your kids. That way you can see where they are, and they can see where you are (which is helpful when you’re picking them up from school, for example). Waze offers a few privacy settings, such as the ability to be “invisible” so you can’t be seen on a map (that would prevent you from seeing your kid’s location, though), and you can also turn off both public and private chats separately, so you can decide which settings are safest for your kids. Also, if your kid drives, make sure they don’t use the app while driving, and consider turning on voice command so they can interact hands-free.

Instagram. If you’re wondering why your kid is spending so much time on Instagram, maybe they’re using it to chat. Users only have to click the Send icon (it looks like a paper airplane) at the top of the app or within any message to start chatting. What you can do. You can’t block chatting in the Instagram app. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

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Congratulations Class of 2019!

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247 graduates offered $18.5 Million in Scholarships! 5 National Merit Finalists 25 Student Athletes competing in college 20 % scored a 30 or higher on the ACT 11 Marching Band Members will march in college bands 20 Aquinas Scholars 6 Eagle Scouts 3 Azalea Trail Maids 2 Seminarians 3 Service Academy Appointments Volleyball State Champions Baseball State Champions 3 Individual Track State Titles

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Registration begins online after Easter. Registration Fee is $45 and covers themed shirt and snack. (251) 342-5474 dianestoyka@yahoo.com www.corpuschristiparish.com

Cottage Hill Baptist

4255 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, 36609 Dates: June 10-14 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: Completed K4 – 5th grade Theme: Power Up Online Registration at www.cottagehill.org (251) 660-2439 tressa@cottagehill.org www.cottagehill.org

Covenant Presbyterian Church

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

2019

Dauphin Island Baptist Church

Vacation

910 Chaumont Avenue Dauphin Island, 36528 Dates: June 17-21 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: Ages 3 – 6th Grade Theme: In the Wild (251) 767-6186 www.dibaptist.org

Bible Schools

Dauphin Way Baptist

3661 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36608 Dates: June 24-28 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: Completed K4-6th Grade Theme: In The Wild (251) 342-3456 janet@dwbc.org www.dwbc.org

First Baptist Church of Dawes

Cody Road Seventh Day Adventist Church ad on page 33

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

Dauphin Way UMC

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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 Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

Ashland Place UMC

15 Wisteria Avenue Mobile, 36607 Dates: June 10-14 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: Completed PreK3 - 5th Theme: Roar! Get ready for an African adventure that engages the whole herd! (251) 478-6356 atrue@apumc.com www.apumc.com

Bayou Sara Baptist Church

12 Bayou Sara Avenue Saraland, 36571 Dates: June 9-13 Times: 6:00pm-8:15pm Ages: all ages Theme: In the Wild (251) 675-1770 www.bayousarabaptist.org

Chickasaw United Methodist Church

108 Lee Street Chickasaw, 36611 Dates: June 2-6 Times: 6:00pm-8:30pm Ages: Beginning kindergarten- Completed 5th Grade Theme: To Mars and Beyond Kid-friendly dinner served at 5:30 pm each evening. VBS program 6:00-8:30 pm. All free! (251) 452-3461 kids4christcumc@gmail.com www.chickasawumc.org

Christ United Methodist Church

6101 Grelot Rd Mobile, 36609 Dates: June 24-28 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: Completed K3-5th Grade Theme: To Mars and Beyond This great adventure will have out-of-this-world fun, learning, and timeless Bible stories that inspire kids to give glory to God. Fun snacks each day and a VBS t-shirt is provide. $15 per child; $20 after Jun. 1. *Volunteers receive one free child registration. (251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com/vbs

Corpus Christi Catholic Church

6300 McKenna Drive Mobile, 36608 Dates: June 17-21 Times: 8:30am - 12:00pm Ages: K-5th Grade Theme: ROAR! Life is Wild~ God is Good

3941 Dawes Road Mobile, 36695 Dates: June 17-21 Times: 6:00pm-9:00pm Ages: Completed 5K-6th grade Theme: Roar Life is Wild, God is good (251) 633-7331 fbcd.amyk@outlook.com

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

Government Street Baptist

3401 Government Boulevard Mobile , 36693 Dates: June 3-7 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: Completed 4K-5th grade Theme: Athens Paul left a life of privilege to face hardships. He did this to spread the life-changing truth of God’s love. (251) 660-7444 governmentstreetbaptist@gmail.com www.governmentstreet.org

Government Street Presbyterian

300 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Dates: June 17-20 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm (251) 432-1749 www.gspcmobile.org

Highpoint Baptist Church

2421 Lott Road Eight Mile, 36613 Dates: June 3-7 Times: 6:00 PM Theme: Into the Wild (251) 452-4601 www.highpointbc.org

Kingswood United Methodist Church

5200 Perin Road Mobile, 36693 Dates: June 17-20 Times: 5:30pm-8:30pm Ages: PK-5th grade Theme: To Mars and Beyond (251) 661-0420 www.tmab.cokesburyvbs.com/ kingswoodumcvbs

Lighthouse Baptist Church

6905 Nan Gray Davis Road Theodore, 36582 Dates: June 10-13 Times: 6:00pm-8:00pm Ages: K3-6th Grade Theme: Kingdom Chronicles (251) 653-6542 lbctheodore.com

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Little Flower Catholic Church

2053 Government Street Mobile, 36606 Dates: June 10-14 Times: 8:30am-11:30am Ages: PK-8th Grade Theme: This year VBS will be an African safari adventure with a daily bible story , singing, experimenting, creating and snack time. God’s goodness is forever. (251) 478-3381 www.littleflower.cc

Luke 4:18 Fellowship

2664 Sollie Road Mobile, 36695 Dates: June 24-28 Times: 6:00pm-8:30pm Ages: K5–5th Grade Theme: Shipwrecked (251) 281-1418 www.luke418fellowship.org

Mt. Hebron Church Ministries

2501 East Service Road North Mobile, 36617 Dates: June 24-28 Times: 6:00pm-8:30pm Ages: 2 years old-Adult Theme: Jesus My Anchor (251) 457-9900 www.mthebroncm.org

New Generation Church

1350 North Cody Road Mobile, 36608 Dates: June 24-28 Times: 6:00pm-8:30pm Ages: 3 yrs-Adults Theme: To Mars and Beyond Please join us for on this epic journey that will include missions, games, snacks, songs, Bible stories, and so much more! (251) 344-0898 www.newgc.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 Come join us for, “To Mars and Beyond: Explore Where God’s Power Can Take You!” We’ll have Bible stories, games, music, crafts, and MUCH MORE!! Register at http://tmab.cokesburyvbs.com/ saralandunitedmethodistchurch (251) 675-2728 www.saralandumc.org

Semmes First Baptist Church

4070 Wulff Road East Semmes, 36575 Dates: June 3-7 Times: 6:00pm-8:30pm Ages: K5-5th Grade Theme: Athens Imagine leaving a life of privilege and power to face angry mobs, painful imprisonment, and chainbreaking earthquakes,all to spread the life-changing truth of God’s love. (251) 649-2319 semmes1stkids2gmail.com www.semmesfirstbaptist.com

Snow Road First Baptist

2370 Snow Road North Semmes, 36575 Dates: June 17 - 21 Times: 6:00pm-8:30pm Ages: 4 years old-6th grade Theme: In the Wild Dinner served every evening. Kick-Off to VBS and Water Fun Day: June 15 at 2pm-4pm. Bring your swimsuits and towels. Family Day : June 23 at 10:45am. (251) 649-7722 www.srfbc.com carolina@srfbc.com

Snow Road Missionary Baptist

809 Snow Road North Mobile, 36608 Dates: June 3-7 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: 4 years-12th Grade Theme: Farm Fresh Faith Register at the church on Monday, June 3 or preregister anytime on our website. (251) 649-0030 snowroadbaptistchurch@yahoo.com snowroadbaptistchurch.com 140 Snow Road North Mobile, 36695 Dates: June 17-21 Times: 5:30pm-8:00pm Ages: 3 yrs-Completed 5th grade (251) 776-7473 mobilesonrise@gmail.com www.sonrisebc.net 1000 Cody Road South Mobile, 36695 Dates: June 11 - 13 Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm Ages: 5 - 12 Theme: Power Up Our South Coast Kids Conference is three days packed full of fun! Join us for a dynamic time of worship, learning the word all while laughing, enjoying snacks and all kinds of summer adventures! 251-455-0585 info@southcoastmobile.com www.southcoastmobile.com

Spring Hill Baptist Church

2 McGregor Avenue South Mobile, 36608 Dates: June 2-5 Times: 5:30pm-8:00pm Ages: Completed 4K-6th grade Theme: Into the Wild: Amazing Encounters with Jesus. Join us for a Wilderness Adventure like no other. (251) 342-5320 www.shbc.cc

Spring Hill Presbyterian

10 Westminster Way Mobile, 36608 Dates: June 24-27 Times: 9:00am-11:30am

St. Dominic’s

4156 Burma Road Mobile, 36693 Dates: June 10-14 Ages: PK3-5th Grade Theme: ROAR, Life is wild, God is Good (251) 661-5130 bchristian@stdomincmobile.org www.stdominicmobile.org

St. Ignatius Catholic Church

3704 Springhill Avenue Mobile, 36608 Dates: June 24-28 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: PK-4th Grade Theme: Tales at Sea: Signs and Wonders in Galilee (251) 342-9221 seiterm@stignatius.org www.stignatiusmobile.org

The Baptist Chapel

Sonrise Baptist Church

South Coast Church

Ages: K4-5th Grade Theme: Superheroes (251) 342-1550 anna@shpc.us shpc.us/vacation-bible-school/

10431 Old Pascagoula Road Grand Bay, 36541 Dates: June 10-14 Times: 8:30am-11:30am Ages: K5-6th Grade Theme: Farm Fresh Faith Join us while we take an adventure on the farm. Farm fresh Faith is an exciting interactive learning experience for all children ages K5-6th grade. (251) 510-8220

West Mobile Baptist

7501 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608 Dates: June 16-20 Times: 6:00pm-8:30pm Ages: 4-6th grade Theme: Roar! VBS Register at wemochurch.org (251) 639-9952 wemochurch.org

Westminister Presbyterian

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

Woodridge Baptist Church

2700 Schillinger Road Mobile, 36695 Dates: June 24-28 Times: 8:30am-12:00pm Ages: Completed Kindergarten through 6th Grades Theme: Into the Wild (251) 633-6000 www.woodridgebc.com MBP

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Peruse the greeting card section around Father’s Day and you’ll find the shelves bursting with stereotypes about dads. While we may love to poke fun at his expense, we have more reasons to appreciate dear old Dad besides how handy he is with a wrench. Supportive dads and father figures positively influence a child’s development. Here’s how. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

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Emphasize education.

They also jump in during the lunch Father of three, Brett Clark joined hour to help peel open Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great those stubborn halfFor many families, dads simply aren’t in the picture Students) and All Pro Dad propint cartons of milk, either due to divorce, death or other reasons. Of course, grams at his kids’ elementary offer clean-up assisschool, four years ago. He says that doesn’t mean you can’t raise a well-adjusted child. tance, and dine with the programs give him valuable their kids. According to the 2016 Census Bureau, while the majorinsight into what’s happening “Eating lunch with ity of children live in two-parent homes, 23 percent are in his children’s school and by your son or daughter being raised by single mothers. Single moms can give extension, their lives. offers a unique insight “Growing up, I don’t recall into your kids’ friends their children the benefit of a father figure by seeking my dad - or any fathers for and what they talk male role models within their extended family, at school, that matter - attending school about, what they think or in the community. with me or knowing what I did is funny and how innoeveryday,” Clark says, whose cent their minds are,” “There are good dads and men in the public eye, too, children are Colton, 12, Carter, Clark says. who you can point to and talk about what makes them 10 and Rowen, 6. “Programs Some dads even admirable and a role model,” Limbert says. like Watch D.O.G.S. are imporstick around for recess. tant for a number of reasons. “It’s amazing how But most importantly, I believe cool the kids think it it is vital for children to see their is getting someone to push them on the swings, play tag, play basketball or football,” dad engaged in their education and life.” Clark says. Researchers agree. Kids, who see both their parents actively involved in their school life, are less likely to get into trouble for behavioral issues, perform better academically, Model healthy relationships. Emotionally secure, nurand are more likely to graduate from high school. turing dads, who help with day-to-day childcare and household Through Watch D.O.G.S., dads, stepdads, grandpas chores, don’t just neutralize assumptions about gender roles in the family. Their support enhances a mother’s overall sense of and other father figures manage an assortment of tasks from emotional well-being. Her happiness trickles down, helping the completing school security checks and greeting kids as they entire family feel more well-adjusted and resilient to stress. arrive at school to providing homework help.

What if Dad is Absent?

Make it a summer of discovery at The Sea Lab on Dauphin Island

Day Camps Summer Excursions Teacher Workshops Boardwalk Talks

101 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, Alabama 36528 www.disl.org

251-861-2141 35

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with their sons, encourages kids to take risks, learn how to manage back and forth interactions and recognize body language cues like when rough play should end.

“Secure fathers (and mothers) are likely to have secure kids. A sense of security means the person sees him or herself as worthy of being loved,” says psychologist and researcher Omri Gillath, Ph.D., University of Kansas. Research suggests that children, especially boys, who have a positive relationship with their fathers are more likely to have higher quality romantic relationships as they enter adulthood, Gillath adds. Both boys and girls, who experience positive relationships with their dads, are also less likely to engage in first-time risky behaviors like substance abuse and premature, unsafe sex.

Enhance empathy.

Outside of their school life, Clark connects with his children through sports activities like coaching his oldest son’s baseball team, volunteering with community organizations like the March of Dimes and the American Heart Association, and by spending leisure time together. “We enjoy being outside as a family, whether that is taking bike rides, attending sporting events or enjoying community events,” Clark says. Researchers at McGill University, found that children raised by attentive, actively involved fathers exhibited higher levels of empathy as adults. “The best things dads can do is to simply be present and offer their attention and interest in their children,” Limbert says. “Obviously it would be helpful to be empathetic and supportive as well, but primarily -without complicating it - it’s all about being present and engaged.” MBP

Teach emotional management. Boys can learn how to manage emotions like anger from their fathers while girls can gain self-confidence and the expectation that they deserve to be treated with respect. “It’s important for fathers to be okay expressing and allowing a full range of emotions from both their daughters and sons,” says parent coach Tom Limbert, author of Most Valuable Dad. “By acknowledging and allowing vulnerability, anger, sadness in yourself and in your children, you open up a supportive dialogue that will help children grow to have healthy relationships and emotional well-being.” Fathers also teach their youngsters socialization skills and self-control through rough-and-tumble play like playful wrestling, tumbling, and chasing. This kind of rough-housing, especially

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines’ husband Jason is a fantastic dad to their two school-age sons. Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital Age.

1 Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

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CLASS OF 2019

A CLEAR PATH for POTENTIAL

93% received merit based scholarships Accepted to 55 different schools 42% of students earned a 30 or higher on the ACT 43 Superior Ratings for Band & Chorus at the State Level 10,702 service hours accumulated in four years 3 athletes going on to play at the next level 2 Marching Bulldogs going on to play in collegiate bands 1 violinist playing in a collegiate orchestra 17 athletic championships in four years. ums-wright.org | 479-6551

UMS-Wright

PREPARATORY SCHOOL www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

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Who says summer can’t be just as educational and fun as school? Customizing a vacation schedule for each child in the family is an eye-opening adventure in and of itself. If you want a peaceful, happy summer, help your kids stretch their wings beyond the usual, school-year routine. Transform your kids’ summer into weeks of entertaining growth by thoughtfully scheduling activities they will love and appreciate. When it comes to stringing together local experiences, imagine the beads that would go on a charm bracelet for each of your kids. Which beads best represent your child’s interests? A soccer ball, a book and pair of hiking boots? Or perhaps a fairy wand, ballet slippers and a teacup? No matter what the collection of interests, gather up some regional guides, hop online, and ask friends what they have planned for their kids. You are going on a summer activity hunt and you don’t want to miss out on any of your options.

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

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Take a customized approach to summer fun and meet the needs of your kids locally. You can find day camps, classes, workshops and activities in your area that will keep smiles on your kids’ faces all summer long.

Ink Year-round Commitments. You may already have school-year activities that extend into summer like scouting or 4-H. Be sure to get these commitments on your child’s schedule first, so you don’t inadvertently overbook. If your child participates in a sport or another competitive activity, training camps may be required during summer. These can be enriching because kids who train over the summer often rejoin their teams playing at a higher level than the prior season.

Ask For Referrals. Chances are

good that parents who have lived in your area for several years have the scoop on the best day camps and summer programs. Poll your friends individually or post a question on social media to gather information. Specify each child’s interests to draw the most relevant recommendations, then hand pick a summer plan to delight each child. Don’t send the fun-loving child who longs for improv classes to the same activities as the serious sibling who adores long games of chess. They can swap adventures on the car-ride home, but make sure their activities reflect their passions.

Don’t Overlook Summer School. Generally speaking, if your child needs

a leg-up on academics during the school year, summer school is a smart choice. Since the summer before high school, we have signed our daughter up to take a wellness course in the summer. Getting a jump on pre-requisites allows her to take an extra art elective during the school year, which provides a welcome break during an intense school day. Ask your child’s school counselor if taking summer school courses might benefit your child’s schedule next year. Some districts allow online learning or swapping summer athletic training to fulfill physical education requirements.

Check Local Resources. Schools,

libraries, and community centers are great resources for summer activities. Be sure to track down any printed or online guides they may offer. Also check towns near where you live to see if they offer programs that may interest your child. By driving one town over, we found a community theater production our daughter can participate in inexpensively each summer. Now that’s worth a ten-minute drive.

Consider Your Child’s Needs.

Sometimes a kid-centric focus is part of an activity’s allure. But if you know your child flourishes in a structured environment with adult leadership, trust your instincts. Be mindful of how much structure and supervision each offering includes. Some kids are more self-motivated than others. Consider scaffolding more leadership into your child’s summer experiences over time. If your child is reticent about trying new ac-

tivities, see if school friends would like to try a new activity together. Kids of working parents often appreciate an opportunity to participate in summer programming, if you can pick up most of the driving.

Go Your Own Way. Sometimes you want your child to benefit from the experience of trying a new experience without school friends. So go ahead and enroll in activities where enthusiasm for the topic will trump any first-day butterflies. Do not cave to peer pressure if all of the other kids are doing an activity that is not a good match for your child. If the program focus isn’t a good fit, the experience isn’t going to be enriching no matter how many friends are in attendance. Make timely, age-appropriate choices for your children, and when religion is an activity focus, make sure it fits with your family’s values. Don’t Overlook A Summer Reading Challenge. If your child

has a busy summer schedule, you might be concerned about enough down time. Signing your child up for a summer reading challenge at the beginning of summer is a great way to build downtime into any schedule. On busy days, reading will provide a welcome reprieve from social activity. And on lazy days, having a daily book-reading commitment can get an unscheduled day off to a good start. MBP Christina Katz is an author, journalist, and writing coach who loves local adventures. She never runs out of interesting things to see and do in her area, and hopes to pass this attitude down to her daughter.

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Amusement Parks and Outdoor Fun

GLOWA OWA 1501 South OWA Boulevard Foley 36535 Join us for GLOWA, a family-friendly DJ party! 6 nights a week (except Tuesdays) from May 24 – August 11, 2019. GLOWA begins at 8:00pm.

Waterville USA

(251) 923-2111 info@VisitOwa.com www.VisitOWA.com/Events

906 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores 36542 Join the family fun at Waterville USA with over 20 water slides, lazy river, wave pool, shrimp-boat village, Flowrider, mini golf, bounce house, go-karts, arcade, and more. The water park is open May 18th and 19th, then daily beginning May 25th, 2019. Parking is Free. Also NEW for 2019 - The Launch Pad trampoline and Cyberville USA, a virtual reality experience!

Hummingbird Zipline Course 4700 Main St (Unit G-114) Orange Beach 36561 The most unique zipline course in the U.S. is located at The Wharf in Orange Beach. It features 9 zips through The Wharf entertainment district, the Intracoastal Waterway with beautiful views of our Back Bay Ecosystem, and a black-gum tree wetland with tree-based observation platforms and rope bridges. Participants must be a minimum of 65 pounds and a maximum of 260 pounds and must be at least eight years of age.

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(251) 948-2106 wville2@gulftel.com www.watervilleusa.com

Alabama Animal Safari Park 1664 Venable Road Hope Hull 36043 Drive through our safari park in your vehicle and feed the animals through your windows! Spend an hour, or stay the day. Paid admission grants access to the Safari Drive-Thru and petting area. Just present your receipt to re-enter the park.

(251) 948-9494 info@gulfadventurecenter.com www.Zipthegulf.com

Kids Days in Bienville Square – Thursdays Bienville Square 150 Dauphin St Mobile 36607 Kid’s days in Bienville starts on Thursday, June 6. Bring the kids out for some summertime fun in Bienville Square each Thursday in June and enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts and visits from the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, the Mobile Police and Fire Departments and much more! Free. Thursdays June 6, 13, 20 and 27 from 10:00am-1:00pm. Free.

(334) 288-2105 www.alabamasafaripark.com

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo 1204 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores 36542 Lions, tigers, macaws, reptiles, kangaroos, lemurs, sloths to name just a few. Petting zoo, seasonal animal encounters, mining sluice and interactive animal shows during the spring and summer. Admission is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors 55+, $10 for kids 3-12. Children 2 and under are free.

(251) 968-5732 info@algulfcoastzoo.org www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org

Bob’s Paintball 3428 Dawes Road Mobile 36695 One of the Gulf Coast’s premier spots for fun, safe paintball! Whether you like to play recreational paintball in the woods or you want to step up your game to the tournament level, there’s something for everyone. Hours: Saturdays–10:00am–5:00pm and Sunday– 12:00pm–5:00pm. (251) 639-8245 bobspaintball@bellsouth.net www.bobspaintball.com

Ferris Wheel & Mini Golf at The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach 36561 The Wharf is home to one of the largest Ferris Wheels in the Southeast standing over 112 feet tall. The Ferris Wheel is $5 per ride (3 years and under are free). Then play a few rounds at our 18-hole Mini Golf Course, and be prepared “fore” a swinging good time! Mini Golf is $7 per person (4 years and under are free). (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Global Wildlife Center Folsom 70437 The Global Wildlife Center largest totally free-roaming wildlife preserve of its kind in the country! We are located in Folsom, Louisiana and home to over 4,000 exotic, endangered, and threatened animals from all over the world. (985) 796-3585 fieldtrips@globalwildlife.com www.globalwildlife.com

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

(251) 208-1550 www.ncsmobile.org

OWA 1501 S. OWA Boulevard Foley 36535 The Park at OWA amusement park features more than 20 rides, splash pad with cabanas for parents, and now a free Non-Rider entry for those who choose to just hang out! Enjoy retail and dining amenities in Downtown OWA (free admission) as well as activities and events for the whole family! GLOWA, a familyfriendly DJ party, also returns this year every Tuesday - Sunday from May 24 – August 11, 2019.

(251) 923-2111 info@VisitOwa.com www.VisitOWA.com

Southern Alabama Paintball 4901 Montee Road Theodore 36582 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

southernalabamapaintball.com

Spectra Sound & Light Spectacular The Wharf 23101 Canal Rd Orange Beach 36561 The Wharf’s Sound & Light Spectacular incorporates sophisticated choreographed lighting effects with popular surround-sound music, delivering a truly unique entertainment experience. Main Street is transformed into a magical stage where the palm trees are energized with life and become the stars of the show. Free shows take place on Main Street every night at 8:30pm, 9:00pm, and 9:30pm. (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

The Putting Place 5103 Girby Road Mobile 36693 Join us for miniature golf. Before or after the round stop in to our game room! (251) 375-1490 theputtingplace@gmail.com www.theputtingplace.com

The Track 3200 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores 36542 The Track in Gulf Shores features fun for the whole family with six go-kart tracks, mini golf, blaster boats, Kids Country rides, the Skycoaster, Fat Daddy’s Arcade and more!

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The Wharf Express The Wharf 23101 Canal Rd Orange Beach 36561 Hop aboard our new train, The Wharf Express, for a fun ride around Main Street to explore the sights and sounds of The Wharf! Each ride costs $5 per person (3 years and under ride free).

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(251) 270-0209 gulfshores@funatthetrack.com www. funatthetrack.com

(251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

The Wharf So Much Summer The Wharf 23101 Canal Rd Orange Beach 36561 Sparks After Dark- Every Monday evening throughout the summer, fireworks will spark up the skies over The Wharf thanks to various tenant sponsorships. Show begins at 8:45pm. Admission is free! Kid’s Night- Each Tuesday night from 5:30pm-8:30pm will be catered to the kids. Face painting, prizes, games, music, a hula-hoop performer, a bouncy house, and a water slide will line Palm Plaza for all the occasions. Admission is free with various activities ranging in price from $5-$10. Pepsi Treasure Hunt- Pick up a treasure map in Marlin Circle and go an adventure through The Wharf each Wednesday night from 5pm-8pm! When the treasure map is complete, turn it in at the Pepsi tent to pick a prize out of the treasure chest. Circus on Main- Join us each Thursday from 6pm-9pm and be transported under the big top with a circusthemed night! Talent and entertainment will include aerial artists, stilt walkers, fire acts, and magicians. Admission is FREE with various activities ranging in price from $5-$10. Dancin’ in the Street- Join us every Friday and Saturday night from 7pm-10pm for free DJ entertainment complete with games, prizes, and appearances from mascots Finn and Starla. Painting Under the Palms- Join us every Sunday at Palm Plaza for painting classes starting at 5:30pm and 6:45pm. Each class is $10 per person. (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Town of Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! Movies starting May 24. Please visit our website for movie listings. (251) 861-5525

townofdauphinisland.org

Town of Dauphin Island Sunday Sunset Concerts West End Beach Dauphin Island 36528 2019 Sunset Concerts - the popular Sunset Concert series, sponsored by the town of Dauphin Island will have the first (and last) event held at historic Fort Gaines. All other concerts will be held at West End Beach (WEB). The schedule is as follows; May 5 (Fort Gaines), May 26 (WEB-Memorial Day Weekend), June 23 (WEB), July 28 (WEB), August 11 (WEB-Reggae Weekend), Sept. 1 (WEB-Labor Day Weekend), and Oct. 13 (Fort Gaines). Start times usually begin about 2 hours prior to sunset. Admission is $5 per person (Age 13 & up) with children 12 & under free. townofdauphinisland.org

Wales West 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill 36576 Wales West offers a Water Slide, Waterfall, fresh lake, Sandy Beach, Swimming, Fishing, Indoor Pool, Playground, Train Rides at 2 and 4 PM. (888) 569-5337 www.waleswest.com

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Weeks Bay Plantation Harvest Night 12562 Mary Ann Beach Rd Fairhope 36532 Weeks Bay Plantation offers tasty organic blueberries for you to pick! Throughout the year we host a Harvest Night Series, live music events, seasonal celebrations, farm-to-table events, summer camps and more! (251) 279-8745 info@weeksbayplantation.com www.weeksbayplantation.com

X-Treme Paintball 900-A Schillinger Road South Mobile 36695 We offer open play and private groups. Xtreme Paintball has over 25 years of experience in hosting fun and safe paintball games for the Mobile area. Our minimum age for play is 10 years old, and everyone must have a waiver on file to participate. (251) 639-0399

www.xpb.us

Arts and Crafts Alabama Contemporary Art Center 301 Conti Street Mobile 36602 Arts center - along with touring our exhibition, we also offer a full range of classes and workshops for all skill levels, summer camps, public conversations and more. Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday (Artwalk – 2nd Fridays 11:00am-9:00pm) and Saturday 11:005:00pm. Admission: $5 for adults and Members and children under 12 are free.

always something new to learn and do. Have fun, be creative, sign up for a class online today! (251) 473-8520

www.michaels.com

Mobile Museum of Art 4850 Museum Drive Mobile 36608 MMofA offers numerous programs and happenings including art classes for children & adults, Art Blast, an artists’ Night Market, film series, artist talks and more. Open Tuesday-Sunday 10:00am-5:00pm, Thursday’s 10:00am-9:00pm - Free admission for Mobile County residents (with proof of Mobile County residence). Adults: $12, Seniors: $10 Students: $8. Children under 6: Free (Members are free). (251) 208-5200

www.mobilemuseumofart.com

www.cityofmobile.org/parks

Paint Party Studios 15 Upham Street Mobile 36607 Paint Party Studios has been in business since 2008 helping bring art and whimsy to the Gulf Coast region with paint classes, birthday parties for all ages, summer camps, memorable office parties and employee team-building events and more.

(251) 208-5671 info@alabamacontemporary.org www.alabamacontemporary.com

(251) 343-2423 info@paintpartystudios.com www.paintpartystudios.com

Home Depot Offers free workshops for children AND adults.

Bowling, Skating, Movies, Arcades and Indoor Fun

www.homedepot.com

LoDa Artwalk Downtown MobileSecond Fridays in downtown have become quite a popular time and place to be! Join downtown art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops as they open their doors. Fun for the whole family! In the Cathedral Square Art District from 6-9pm. (251) 208-1550

www.ncsmobile.org

Michael’s Arts and Crafts 3250 Airport Boulevard Mobile 36606 Kids Summer Crafting! Embrace your creativity with Michael’s. With our exciting array of classes there’s

Environmental and Marine Education/Nature Trails ad on page 35

101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island 36528 The Estuarium is an exciting educational public aquarium highlighting the four key habitats of coastal Alabama. It includes the 10,000 square foot Exhibit Hall, a 7,000 gallon sting ray touch pool, and the Living Marsh Boardwalk. This facility has 31 aquariums totaling over 30,000 gallons with more than 100 species on display. The Estuarium showcases the plants, animals, and other natural resources found in the Estuary and its surrounding marine habitats. (251) 861-2141

www.disl.org

ADCNR Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Hunting, fishing, youth programs, family events, canoe trails, outdoor activities and state regulations. Wildlife And Freshwater Fisheries Division: (334) 242-3465; Marine Resources Division Offices (saltwater fishing): Dauphin Island: (251) 861-2882 or Gulf Shores: (251) 968-7576. (251) 626-5474 www.outdooralabama.com

Breakout Orange Beach The Wharf 4776 Main Street (Space L-208) Orange Beach 36561 Work together to solve puzzles, crack codes, and find hidden items in order to escape in under an hour! Each game is a real-life escape room adventure for small groups of friends, family, or coworkers. Take team building to a whole new level! (251) 929-8330 info@breakoutgames.com www.breakoutgames.com/orange-beach

(251) 626-6221 info@tortugaadventuregolf.com www.tortugaadventuregolf.com

Dauphin Island Sea Lab

Mobile Parks & Recreation Community Activities Classes and Camps offering arts, crafts, sports and much more. Call 666-6404 or 666-6053 or visit www. cityofmobile.org/parks or www.communityactivitiesprogram.com. (251) 460-2421

Tortuga Adventure Golf, LLC 30500 State Highway 181, Spanish Fort 36527 Indoor blacklight adventure golf that takes the players on a journey through the pirate island of Tortuga in the Carribean.

Alligator Alley 19950 Highway 71 Summerdale 36580 Start your guided adventure with a walk to the elevated viewing platform, where you can see over 450 alligators now from hatchlings to mature adults, relaxing, sunbathing, courting and nesting. Come during feeding times and you can see the feeding crew walk right out to the alligators to feed them! Open 7 Days a Week – 10:00am-5:00pm. Feedings 11:00; 1:00; 4:00. (251) 946-BITE info@gatoralleyfarm.com gatoralleyfarm.com

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Back Country Trail Orange Beach 36561 Seven trails among six distinct ecosystems make up more than 15 miles of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail complex through Orange Beach, Gulf Shores and the Gulf State Park. Experience the beautiful Butterfly Garden, rock climb in the Boulder Park, view Freshwater Marshes and the Coastal Hardwood Swamps. Campsites, Geocaching, and Eco tours are only a few of the many exciting activities. Open 7 days a week from 6am - 7:30pm. (251) 981-1180 backcountrytrailoba@gmail.com www.backcountrytrail.com

Bellingrath Gardens and Home 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore 36582 Bellingrath Gardens and Home features a 65-acre estate Garden and historic Home, and blooms and beauty year-round. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (251) 973-2217

www.bellingrath.org

Bicycle Trails – Mobile County Trail maps for Mobile and Baldwin County areas. Interested in finding a Specialty ride or joining a weekly ride, please visit www.bicyclemobile.org. (251) 432-1638

www.mobileunited.org/trails

Bicycling in Mobile Mobile County BicycleMobile.org is a an advocacy website devoted to every aspect of bicycling in Mobile, AL. We have lists of group rides, information about bike shops and a list of key issues for advocacy and infrastructure. info@bicyclemobile.org www.bicyclemobile.org

Birding Trails Discover a variety of feathered visitors and year-round residents. Please exercise care while enjoying the birds along the coast, be mindful of their habitats, and respect other birders. Visit our website for a list of trails, convention centers and activities. (251) 626-5474

www.alabamacoastalbirdingtrail.com

Bon Secour National Wildlife Reserve 12295 State Highway 180 Gulf Shores 36542 7,000 acres of wildlife habitat for migratory birds, nesting sea turtles and many others. One of the 10 natural wonders of Alabama. Brochures and maps available at trailhead kiosks and outside the refuge office. Open to visitors year-round, during daylight hours only. Visitor Center open from 9am - 2pm Monday – Friday. Closed Saturday, Sunday and federal holidays. (251) 540-7720 bonsecour@fws.gov www.fws.gov/bonsecour

GulfQuest 155 South Water Street Mobile 36602 With 90 interactive exhibits, simulators, displays and theaters, GulfQuest is a place you’ll want to visit often. The exhibits are housed on multiple decks of a life-sized replica of a container ship, so come ready to walk and browse and take your time. (251) 436-8901 info@gulfquest.org www.gulfquest.org

Mobile Botanical Gardens 5151 Museum Drive Mobile 36608 100-acre site of cultivated gardens and woodland trails. Enjoy the serenity and beauty of nature, see in one place the largest collection of plants on the Gulf Coast, and learn about the diversity of our local plant and wild life. MBG Marketplace Saturdays 9-12:00pm until the end of June. (251) 342-0555 mbg2@bellsouth.net www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org

Oyster Trail Fun & educational art treasure hunt throughout coastal Alabama. Each oyster has a fact plaque that includes important information about the oyster’s ecological and economic benefit to Mobile Bay. Trail Maps can be found in hotels, shops, visitor centers or online. Complete the scavenger hunt form and return it for an Oyster Trail Prize! (251) 438-5690 oystergardening@auburn.edu www.theoystertrail.com

Farmers Markets and Open Air Markets Blue Moon Farm 13620 Tom Gaston Road Mobile 36695 U-Pick Blueberries, U/Cut Flowers in Spring and Fall, Specialty Plants, Vegetables-Farm Fresh Eggs-CSA Farm Shares. Come out and enjoy the country. (251) 865-0252

bluemoonfarm-grandbay.com

Christ United Farmers’ Market Christ United Church 6101 Grelot Rd Mobile 36609 The market will feature locally grown fruits and vegetables, honey, seafood, baked goods, and home produced craft items. Tuesdays 3-6 p.m. beginning May 14th. christumcmobile.com

Dauphin Island Park & Beach Dauphin Island 109 Bienville Boulevard Many activities to choose from such as the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, Boating, Camping, Fishing, Fort Gaines, Kayaking, Public beach access, Trails and so much more! The Park & Beach Board has around 265 acres of parkland and in that we have 10 park facilities.

Flea Market Mobile 401 Schillinger Road North Mobile 36608 If you love to shop, Flea Market Mobile is the place for you. We host vendors from all over the world with items you won’t find anywhere else at prices you can’t beat. Rain or shine! Saturday-Sunday, 9am – 5pm.

Environmental Studies Center 6101 Girby Road Mobile 36693 The Environmental Studies Center is a natural sciences education facility designed to provide unique learning experiences to school children and the general population.

Market in the Park Cathedral Square 300 Conti Street Mobile 36602 Local farmers market featuring fresh produce, baked goods, jellies and jams, locally harvested honey, handmade soaps, eggs and organic meats, local artisans and more! Every Saturday from April 27-July 27 from 7:30am-12:00pm.

Five Rivers Delta Resource Center 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort 36527 5 Rivers is your gateway to the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Open 7 days per week and free to the public, the facility features live animals and exhibits highlighting Alabama’s rich natural resources. Business hours are from 8am – 5pm.

Market in the Park - Lavretta Park Lavretta Park Parkway Street West Mobile 36608 Local farmers market featuring fresh produce, baked goods, jellies and jams, locally harvested honey, handmade soaps, eggs and organic meats, local artisans and more! Every Thursday May 30-July 25 from 3:00pm-6:00pm.

(251) 861-3607 scaindipbb@outlook.com or parks@ dauphinisland.org www.dauphinisland.org

(251) 221-5000

(251) 625-0814

www.mcpsesc.com

www.Alabama5Rivers.com

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

(251) 633-7533

(251) 208-1550

www.fleamarketmobile.com

www.ncsmobile.org

Historical Sites USS Alabama Battleship ad on page 11

2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile 36603 At Battleship Memorial Park you’ll walk the decks of the Mighty A, our WWII battleship. Explore the decks and see how sailors lived aboard this floating city. It’s periscopes up in the USS DRUM, the oldest submarine on public display. See 28 historic airplanes, vehicles, tanks, a Vietnam River Patrol Boat, and a super-secret spy plane. Hours: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm (April-September) 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (October-March) last ticket sold one hour prior to closing. Ages 12 and up $15, Ages 6 – 11 $6, Under age 5 and active military is free. Ages 55+ is $13. Ask about our Overnight Program for scouts, school and church groups. (251) 433-2703 info@ussalabama.com www.ussalabama.com

Dora Franklin African American Heritage Trail Tours History comes alive on the Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail! Tours enlighten Mobile’s culturally diverse heritage by linking historic contributions and events with significant locations. Forgotten chapters of history are remembered through the stories of courage and contributions from Mobile’s ethnically diverse past. Cost-$20 per person, $10 for Seniors (62 and up) and Students (17 and under). (251) 725-2236

www.dffaaht.org

Fort Gaines 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island 36528 Fort Gaines was the battle site of the famous Battle of the Bay in August 1864. See the battlements and soldiers’ living quarters, which were used from the 1800’s to 1946. Lots of fun for families and kids! Admission Hours: 9:00am-5:00pm. Cost - Children (5-12) - $4.00, Adults (Ages 13+) - $8.00. (251) 861-6992 fortgaines@outlook.com www.dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines

Fort of Colonial Mobile 150 South Royal Street Mobile 36602 In this immersive, interactive exhibit, visitors can learn about the people who colonized early Mobile. While visiting the Fort be sure to visit the Colonial Cafe, Trading Post, Colonial Photo Booth, Breakout Room, and shooting gallery. You will also have a chance to tour the interactive exhibits that highlight the history of the Fort. (251) 802-3092

colonialmobile.com

Historic Blakeley State Park 34745 State Highway 225 Spanish Fort 36527 Bring the whole family and enjoy more than 16 miles of walking, biking and horseback riding trails. Numerous educational programs, boat cruises into the delta rivers, cabins, RV spots and primitive camping. Rental facilities for special events. Adults: $4; Ages 6-12: $3; Ages 6 and Under are Free. Open 7 days a week from 8am - dusk. (251) 626-5581 office@blakeleypark.com www.blakeleypark.com

Historic Mobile Tours Partake in an engaging and personalized tour of historic Mobile with your guide, L. Craig Roberts, Architect, AIA. Choose from three informative and interesting outings tailored to you and your group: Seven Historic Districts Tour, Historic Village of Springhill Tour or Downtown Mobile Historic Walking Tour. Please visit the website for more information. (251) 343-8165 lcraigroberts@aol.com lcraigroberts.com/tours

Meaher State Park 5200 Battleship Parkway East Spanish Fort 36527 Meaher State Park is situated in the wetlands of Mobile Bay, and is a day-use, picnicking and scenic park with modern camping hook-ups for overnight visi-

www.mobilebayparents.com

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tors. Meaher’s boat ramp and fishing pier will appeal to every fisherman. A self-guided walk on two nature trails includes a boardwalk with an up-close view of the beautiful Mobile Delta.

(251) 626-5529

www.alapark.com/Meaher-State-Park

Mobile Carnival Museum 355 Government Street Mobile 36602 The Mobile Carnival Museum highlights the history of Mardi Gras. Immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions of carnival. Adults-$8.00, Children 12 and under - $3.00, Military, Students w/ ID, AAA, AARP-$6.00. Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9:00am-4:00pm. (Open Thursdays on select days. Summer dates - June 6, July 4 & 18, August 1 & 15) (251) 432-3324

www.mobilecarnivalmuseum.com

Mobile Mardi Gras Trail 1 South Water Street Mobile 36602 A walking or driving route that recreates the birth of America’s mystic Mardi Gras tradition. Discover the festive side of life during the steamboat era, authentic Creole culture and the extravagance of the Guilded Age, mixed with the intrigue of secret societies, flambeaus and ballrooms. Self guided tours or daily tours or by appointment. (251) 432-6161 mardigrastrail@gmail.com www.mobilemardigrastrail.com

Oakleigh Historic Complex 350 Oakleigh Place Mobile 36604 A beautiful example of a pre-Civil War, southern home, the Historic Oakleigh House Museum in the Oakleigh Historic Complex is considered one of the rarest examples of Greek revival architecture in the United States. Open 10:00am-4:00pm on Monday, Friday and

Saturday and 1:00pm-4:00 Sunday. $10.00 for adults and Free for HMPS Members and children under 5. (251) 432-1281

www.historicoakleigh.com/

Phoenix Fire Museum 203 South Claiborne Street Mobile 36602 The Museum is in the restored home of the Phoenix Volunteer Fire Company No. 6. This building houses turn-of-the-century horse-drawn steam engines and early motorized vehicles. The gallery on the Second Floor recounts the history of the volunteer fire companies of Mobile from their organization in 1838. (251) 208-7508 fire-museum

www.museumofmobile.com/phoenix-

Secret History Tours 600 Government Street Mobile 36602 Our walking tours make history come alive as your guide shows you the sights and tells you the stories of 316 years of Mobile, Alabama’s history. (251) 752-9868 info@secrethistorytours.com www.secrethistorytours.com

The History Museum of Mobile 111 South Royal Street Mobile 36602 The History Museum of Mobile is an educational and entertaining destination for both adults and children. As you explore the museum’s galleries, interesting artifacts and fascinating stories will appear around every corner. Open Monday - Saturdays – 9:00am-5:00pm. Sundays – 1:00pm-5:00pm. Cost: Adult - $10.00, Students (18+ w/ID) - $9.00, Children age 13 to 18 $7.50, Children age 6 to 12 - $5.00 and Children age 5 and under – Free. (251) 208-7508

www.museumofmobile.com

University of South AL Archaeology Museum 6052 USA Drive South Mobile 36608 The Archaeology Museum showcases artifacts from the Gulf Coast and covers over 12,000 years of prehistory and history. Open Tuesday – Friday: 9:00am-4:00pm. General visits are self-guided and free of charge. (251) 460-6106 www.southalabama.edu/org/ archaeology/museum

Indoor Fun Get Air

ad on page 35

842 Schillinger Road South Mobile 36695 Wall to wall trampolines, dodge ball, foam pits, basketball dunk, toddler jump area and birthday parties. We also have summer camp from July 1 - August 8 from Monday-Thursday 1:00 pm-5:00 pm - come explore the benefits of exercise and good nutrition while being lead through a series of games, crafts and learning. Kids ages 5 to 15. Hours: Monday and Wednesday – 10:00 am-10:00 pm, Tuesday and Thursday- 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm, Friday-Saturday 10:00pm - 12:00am Midnight and Sunday 10:00am - 8:00pm. (251) 241-3101 mobile@getairsports.com getairmobile.com

Gulf Coast Exploreum ad on page 20

65 Government Street Mobile 36604 8,500-square-foot, hands-on discovery playground with IMAX theatre where learning about science and

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nature is nothing but fun for children and adults of all ages! The Exploreum also offers amazing Summer Science Camps! Week-long camps are hands-on, age-appropriate with make-and-take activities. Summer Hours (Memorial Day-Labor Day): Monday-Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm and Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm. (251) 208-6893

www.exploreum.com

Altitude Trampoline Park 3659C Airport Boulevard Mobile 36608 Trampoline Park. Come Jump with us! Summer Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11:00am-8:00pm, Friday: 11:00am-11:00pm, Saturday: 9:00am-11:00pm and Sunday 12:00pm-8:00pm

(251) 725-0171 jump@altitudetrampolineparkmobile.com altitudetrampolineparkmobile.com

AMF - Camellia Lanes 125 North Schillinger Road Mobile 36608 With the Summer Games, you can bowl 3 games every day this summer for one low price. Shoes are included with your pass, making the summer’s best deal on bowling even better! (251) 639-1221 amf@email.amf.com www.amf.com/camellialanes

AMF Skyline Lanes 4120 Government Boulevard Mobile 36693 With the Summer Games, you can bowl 3 games every day this summer for one low price. Shoes are included with your pass, making the summer’s best deal on bowling even better! (251) 661-1221 amf@email.amf.com www.amf.com/skylinelanes

Arena-The Next Level Laser Tag/Bazookaball The Wharf 4720 Main Street Orange Beach 36561 Visit us for great entertainment for all ages! Perfect for birthday parties, civic outings, and family vacations. We offer Laser Tag and Bazookaball for all ages. (251) 224-5297(LAZR) arenanextlevel@aol.com www.arenaorangebeach.com

Big City Toys Big City Toys 4504 Old Shell Road Mobile 36608 We have Storytime in the Big City every Tuesday at 3:30pm. Big City Builder Buddies - (May 22, June 18) Join us each month for a new building project in the Toy Testing Lab at Big City Toys! Check our social media for current projects! (251)308-8995 bigcitytoyskrewe@gmail.com www.bigcitytoys.com

Breakout Mobile 3090 Dauphin Square Connector Mobile 36607 You have one goal: escape the room in under 1 hour. You’ll work together to solve puzzles, crack codes, find hidden items, and more in order to escape! It’s great for groups of friends, family, or coworkers. (251) 460-1284 info@breakoutgames.com breakoutmobile.com

Chuck E. Cheese’s 710 Downtowner Loop West Mobile 36609 Watch your kids have a blast at the best place for family fun! We provide games, rides, prizes, food and entertainment for the whole family. Hours: SundayThursday 11:00am-9:00pm, Friday-11:00am-10:00pm, Saturday 10:00am-10:00pm. (251) 342-8142

www.chuckecheese.com

Dreamland Skate Center 5672 Three Notch Road Mobile 36619 Dreamland Skate Center is Mobile’s premier roller skating rink. Its hickory wood floor is the only one of its kind in Mobile. (251) 661-6997

www.dreamlandskatecenter.com

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

Gather Place 7856 Westside Park Drive Suite F Mobile 36695 Gather together for Open Play, Storytimes & Birthday Parties! We’re all about creative play for littles. Ages 0-7. See y’all soon! www.facebook.com/gatherkidsplace

Lazer Zone 790 Schillinger Road North Mobile 36608 Family Fun at its best! Lazer Zone offers Laser Tag, Bumper Cars, Mini Golf, and Arcade! Locally owned and operated.

(251) 639-7330 info@lazerzone.co lazerzonemobile.com

Lil’ Haints Creative Writing Summer Series aunted Book Shop 109 Dauphin St Mobile 36602 For ages 9-12. Meets Thursdays, June and July, 10 am -12 pm in the Reading Room at The Haunted Book Shop. $7 per class or $35 for series. For complete information about dates, workshops, and to register, visit www.thehauntedbookshopmobile.com. (251) 348-7668

www.thehauntedbookshopmobile.com

Pete’s Party Castle 2040 Schillinger Road South Mobile 36695 Pete’s Party Castle is Mobile’s favorite place to sit back and let the kids play. Enjoy great food, arcades, and a dragon playground. Even the little ones can play, too, in our toddler soft play area. We recently added a precious Crooked House to our toddler area which is very popular. (251) 281-1990

www.petespartycastle.com

Pump It Up 741-A Hillcrest Road Mobile 36695 Summer Open Play. To view our open jump times visit our online calendar at www.pumpitupparty.com/ mobile-al/calendar. Join us for our Little Tikes Jump, General Open Jump, Face Paint Jump, Doughnut and Juice Jump, Buddy Jumps and more! (251) 342-3940 pumpitupmobile@gmail.com www.PumpItUpParty.com/mobile-al

Rambo Skateland 531 Saraland Blvd South Saraland 36571 (251) 675-6601

Find us on Facebook

Regal Movie Stadium 18 - 2019 Summer Movie Express 1250 Satchel Paige Drive Mobile 36606 Summer Movie Express 2019 - Family fun movies playing on Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:00am for the summertime! Admission to the Summer Movie Express is only $1. A portion of the proceeds goes to the Will Rogers Institute. www.regmovies.com

Spa-Tea-Da 3938 Government Boulevard Mobile 36693 Spa-Tea-Da! is a quaint day spa just for girls and a boutique party spot in Mobile. We have many fun activities planned throughout the summer that are sure to cure your girl’s summer boredom blues. Check out the event page on our website for more information. (251) 447-4846 spateadaevents@gmail.com www.spa-tea-da.com

Splatty Patty 109 Upham Street Mobile 36607 Little girl beautification zone. We offer mini manicures, pedicures and mini makeup birthday parties. We specialize in making little girls glamorous! (251) 721-8968

www.splattypatty.com

Sunshine Skate Center 950 Hillcrest Road Mobile 36695 Summer Fun at Sunshine begins June 5! Summer

Schedule: Tuesday-Thursday 10am-4pm $7, Thursday 6pm-9pm $3, Friday 7pm-10pm $9, Saturday 12pm-3pm or 4pm-7pm $7, Saturday night (Family Fun Night) 7pm-10pm $7 and Sunday 2pm-5pm $7. Please visit our website and special events page for more information on upcoming events. (251) 639-1704 info@sunshineskate.com www.sunshineskate.com

Sunshine Sue’s Playgarden 161 West I-65 Service Road North Mobile 36608 Play Place, Drop off Service, Birthday Parties, Classes, Summer Camps and More!

(251) 421-2434 hello@sunshinesuesplaygarden.com www.facebook.com/SunshineSuesPlaygarden

Libraries & Story Times

Mobile Public Library Many of the local libraries have very exciting events and activities during the summer. Summer Reading Celebration - Movies, Activities, STEAM Projects, Clubs and more! We encourage you to visit your local library’s website for details! The Mobile Public Library Kick-off will be held at the Ben May Main Library and West Regional Library on Saturday, June 1 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. The FREE program runs from June 1 – July 31. Children can sign up any time during the eight weeks.

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Nature Trails / Marine Education / Environmental Weeks Bay Reserve 11300 U.S. Highway 98 Fairhope 36532 Over 9,000 acres of land and water around Weeks Bay and Mobile Bay. The Reserve offers opportunities to learn about coastal habitats through exhibits, live animal displays and collections of animals and regional plants. We also have a free educational visitors center and two self-guided boardwalks. Visitors Center: Monday – Saturday, 9am - 5pm. Boardwalks are open daily from dawn to dusk. Find us on Facebook! (251) 928-9792

www.weeksbayreserve.com

WildNative Delta Safaris - Gulf Shores/ Orange Beach Happy Harbor Oyster Bay 4159 County Road 6 Gulf Shores 36542 Guided Kayak Tours. Just minutes from bustling Gulf Shores, the Dolphins & Wildlife Kayak Experience immerses you in a coastal wilderness and one of the prettiest classrooms on earth. (251) 272-4088 info@wildnativetours.com www.wildnativetours.com

WildNative Tours - Mobile 101 South Water Street Mobile 36602 Narrated Boat Tours. Like Mobile, Alabama this tour is quirky, fun, & interesting! You’ll visit the Port of Mobile, Mobile Bay and the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Learn about the area & historical landmarks along the way. (251) 272-4088 info@wildnativetours.com www.wildnativetours.com

WildNative Tours - Spanish Fort 30841 Five Rivers Blvd Spanish Fort 36527 Narrated Boat Tours, Guided Kayak Tours and Kayak Rentals. This is a “must see” area for all avid lovers of nature and its creatures when exploring Coastal Alabama. The Mobile-Tensaw Delta is the area’s biggest jewel - If you do nothing else, visit the Delta! (251) 272-4088 info@wildnativetours.com www.wildnativetours.com

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Plays and Performances

Mobile Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile 36602 (251) 208-5600

(251) 432-2010

(251) 307-5056 office@thepactmobile.com www.thepactmobile.com

Chickasaw Civic Theatre 801 Iroquois Street Mobile 36611

Spanish Fort Town Center Park & Splash Pad 29000 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort 36527 Amenities include a pavilion area, splash pad, stateof-the-art playground, horseshoe pits, bike racks, restroom facilities, sunburst fountain pond, and a fitness area. The park also serves as a host site for signature community events at Spanish Fort Town Center. (214) 561-8884

www.azaleacityarts.com

(251) 457-8887

www.cctshows.com

Joe Jefferson Players 11 South Carlen Street Mobile 36606 (251) 471-1534

www.joejeffersonplayers.com

www.spanishforttowncenter.com

Mobile Chamber Music

The Fort Container Park Spanish Fort Town Center 29001 Bass Pro Road Spanish Fort 36527 Featuring outdoor chef-driven local eateries, drinks, games, live performances and fun for all ages! Park Hours of Operation: Sunday - Thursday 11am - 9pm,

(251) 633-8840

www.mobilechambermusic.org

Mobile Civic Center 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile 36602 (251) 208-7261

www.mobilecivicctr.com

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Mobile Theatre Guild 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile 36604

Azalea City Center for the Arts (251) 510-1808

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Mobile Symphony Orchestra 257 Dauphin Street Mobile 36602

The Pact

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The Playhouse in the Park 4851 Museum Drive Mobile 36608 (251) 422-5434

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The Steeple 251 St Francis Street Mobile 36602

(251) 415-4641 www.thesteeplemobile.com

University of Mobile Performing Arts

(251) 675-5990 www.umobile.edu/academics/alabamaschool-arts/center-for-performing-arts/

University of South Alabama Laidlaw Performing Arts Center 5751 USA S Drive Mobile 36688 (251) 460-6136 sic/laidlaw.html

www.southalabama.edu/colleges/mu-

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• 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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P Water Fun, Sailing, Cruises and Tours Waterville USA ad on page 13

Action Outdoors – Dauphin Island 650 LeMoyne Drive Dauphin Island 36528 Boat trips into the waters surrounding Dauphin Island. School field trips, eco tours, romantic cruise, inshore fishing. Built in touch tanks provide personal experiences with many kinds of fish and other animals found in our waters. (251) 861-2201 reservations@actionoutdoors.org www.actionoutdoors.org

Airboat Express 3733 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort 36527 Airboat rides and tours in the Mobile Delta. Trips depart from the Original Oyster House in Spanish Fort on the Causeway. Reservations required. (251) 370-7089

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Alabama State Lands Canoe Trails 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort 36527 The Canoe Trails offer canoeists and kayakers alike the ability to explore the State’s unique natural resources while providing paddlers with opportunities for both day and over-night trips. There are 170+ miles of trail located along the Bartram Canoe Trail in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and Perdido River Canoe Trail. (251) 625-0814

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Bay City Tours Daily sightseeing tours include Historic Mobile USS Alabama Memorial Park and Mobile’s Own Ghost Stories. Other tours available. (251) 479-9970

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Bienville Bites Food Tour “Enjoy Mobile’s award winning food scene while experiencing our history and culture on a guided tour.” Tickets are purchased online or by phone. info@bienvillebitesfoodtour.com www.bienvillebitesfoodtour.com

Delta Explorer 34745 State Highway 225 Spanish Fort 36527 Nobody knows the waters of the scenic and historic Mobile-Tensaw Delta better than the licensed captains of Historic Blakeley State Park’s Delta Explorer ! We invite you to journey with us by boat through these waterways and discover this diverse ecosystem. (251) 626-0798

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Gulf Coast Tours Step aboard our new, air-conditioned historic trolley and visit over 20 homes, museums, attractions, and more, including 12+ hop on/hop off locations! This tour lasts about 90 minutes and allows you to take

advantage of our hop on/hop off privileges for the day. You will learn about Mobile’s history, hear the stories of our ancestors, and much more! (251) 633-0560

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Mobile Bay Ferry Daily departures every 1 1/2 hours. The trip between Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island and Fort Morgan at Mobile Point provides wonderful views of the two historic forts that have long guarded the entrance of Mobile Bay. (251) 861-3000

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Mobile Sailing School 4295 Marina Drive North Mobile 36605 The Mobile Bay Sailing School, has been teaching sailing and basic seamanship skills to kids between the ages of 8 and 18 since 1982. Open to anyone who has an interest in learning about this wonderful sport. (251) 709-4102

www.mobilebaysailingschool.com

Mobile Segway Tours Spot of Tea 310 Dauphin Street Mobile 36602 Learn the rich history of Mobile with an emphasis on the origin of Mardi Gras and the colorful and exciting life of Joe Cain on our Segway Tours. (251) 433-9009 segway@spotoftea.com www.mobilesegways.com

Perdido Queen Dining Cruises 1 South Water Street Mobile 36602 Cruise Mobile aboard our authentic Riverboat, The Perdido Queen Paddlewheeler! Enjoy stunning sunset and city lights views with dining catered by Dauphin’s and live entertainment. (251) 948-6611 perdidoqueen@gmail.com perdidoqueen.com MBP

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

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When Teen Anger Burns Bright In the right context, fire is helpful. It can warm a house, cook your s’mores, even act as a signal for rescuers should you get lost in the woods somehow. But left unattended, even a small flame can easily turn into a devastating disaster, ravaging homes and causing untold damage. Dealing with angry kids without getting angry yourself is not easy. Teaching teens how to express their feelings in the right way doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen. And it begins with a conscious effort to make anger constructive rather than destructive.

See Where the Fire Started

With teens, anger is usually an emotional response to not getting something wanted, or losing something once held dear. I’m not talking about anger over not getting material things, like the latest video game or a later curfew (even though these things can provoke anger). What I’m talking about is a deeper anger over unfulfilled needs and wants, which usually happens when something of true value is lost. For instance, a girl being angry because she was taken advantage of physically, so she’s lost a sense of self and self-respect in the process. Or the more common situation of a child who is angry with one, or both, biological parents for their divorce and the split-up of the family. When dealing with anger, remember that anger is just an expression of a deeper issue. Your teenagers may not even know why they are angry, but finding out what is missing or lost in their life is the key to dealing with it. When you take time to peel back the layers and get to the bottom of the anger you’re seeing, you may uncover the real source of the fire. I’ll be honest—this takes a level of patience and grace on the part of us moms and dads. It’s difficult to respond calmly when your son or daughter is shouting, or when they shut down in silence. But it never helps when parents become angry themselves. It’s extremely counter-productive, and chances are your teens’ anger will increase, not decrease. Instead, start asking questions to expose the need in your teen’s life. What’s happening at school? What’s going on at home? What’s happening with friends? Does your daughter

feel clumsy and ugly? Does your son feel untalented or un-gifted? Is there a habit your teen can’t break, or a relationship they want fixed? Do a little investigation in your son or daughter’s life, and find the root of the anger. If you address the need, you’re well on your way to stopping the anger.

Allowing the Fire to Burn Out

It’s never productive to simply put a stopper on anger—if you do, it will just boil up somewhere else. As long as the underlying issue remains, those emotions will show themselves somewhere. When my dad told me, “you better get rid of that bad attitude,” it was nearly impossible for me to do so. I learned to smile and say “okay” but the anger was still there … and it always came out in other areas of my life. And then there are the clichés or advice that sound wise, but turned out to be very misguided. Ever heard, “every time you get angry, just walk away”? In theory that sounds good, but that’s really a bad anger habit. If I walked away from every person that ticked me off, I wouldn’t be able to get through many conversations. And can you imagine walking away from your wife or husband in the middle of an argument? That’s a rookie mistake and it never ends well.

Don’t Allow the Fire to Rage

It is important to manage the behavioral side of a teenager’s anger while dealing with the emotional side. Teens can become very volatile, even violent at times; but physical and disrespectful outbursts cannot be allowed. A parent must draw and hold firm lines as to what behavior will and will not be tolerated. You may need to say, “if you’re angry, I’m okay with that. But if you become disrespectful, we will pause this conversation until you can calm down.” Taking a break from an unhealthy conversation is different than walking away. When you put a pause on things, you’re saying, “this is important and we need to talk about it, but right now it isn’t fruitful. Let’s take a few minutes to calm down.” The feelings your teens are suffering can seem very real to them, but it does not give them license to strike out. When tempers flare and anger starts to rise, the best thing you can do as a mom or dad is to take a step back, either emotionally, or even physically. Dealing with anger needs to happen in an environment of unconditional love. When 47

your teenage son comes through the door with furrowed brow and fire in his eyes, stop and ask him questions. “What are you thinking about when you feel this angry?” is better than asking “Why are you so angry all the time?” It changes the interaction from one of blame to one of interest. The goal should be to create an environment for solutions; one that welcomes the child, and makes sure they aren’t afraid to express their true emotions in an acceptable manner. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it! But if a child can’t express and release the emotions they feel, teens will live out the anger in other, much more harmful, ways. It’s best to step in and help your teens understand acceptable ways to express their anger. Show them healthy ways to let off steam and deal with their emotions. We had a young man at Heartlight many years ago who had serious anger issues. I gave him an old golf club and told him to go out and beat on a tree when he felt like he couldn’t handle things any more. It gave him a way to dissipate his anger without hurting himself or anyone else while we worked with him to understand and process the truly awful things that had happened to him.

Don’t Ignore the Smoke

Wise parents look at anger as a warning sign. If you see anger in a place you don’t expect it, it is an indication that there is something going on that you don’t know about that needs to be dealt with. Dig until you find it. Don’t let it go, because it will keep causing behavioral trouble until the underlying issue is dealt with. Remember, you may be able to manage your teens’ behavior by giving them negative consequences, but you will never deal with the root issues that way. When you tell a child not to feel a certain way, like when you say, “quit acting so angry all the time,” they don’t see how that is possible. But when you help them address the real issue that is causing their angry behavior, it instills a sense of hope. Getting at the source of the problem and finding strategies for working through it gives them a path they can follow, and offers a way to move past their anger. 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 Saturday May 25

Market in the Park for Spring 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Market in the Park on Saturdays April 27 to July 27. www.ncsmobile.org 6th Annual Sunset Cruise Car Show 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 6th Annual Sunset Cruise Car Show The Town of Dauphin Island welcomes you to the 6th Annual Sunset Cruise Car Show. Dauphin Island is a 14 mile long barrier island located near the mouth of Mobile Bay just 30 miles south of Mobile Bay. townofdauphinisland.org The Great Inflatable Race 9:00 AM Mobile Fairgrounds, 1035 Cody Rd North Mobile, AL, 36608 The Great Inflatable Race is a fun run with inflatable obstacles spread throughout the running course. You and your friends will feel like kids again as you jump, dive and bounce on our custom-designed inflatables. Get fit, support a good cause and create epic memories that will last you a lifetime! www.thegreatinflatablerace.com/mobile Mobile Pops Concert (Free) 6:00 PM Medal of Honor Park, 1711 Hillcrest Road Mobile, AL, 36619 Mobile Pops concert. www.themobilepops.com Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 251-457-8887 cctshows.com Commedia del Arte presents “Merlin the Kingmaker” 7:30 PM Episcopal Church of the Redeemer, 7125 Hitt Road Mobile, AL, 36695 The original work of playwright Shari Prestwood it is crafted in such a way as to be enjoyed by all ages. While the performance is completely family friendly it is not solely written for children. www.commediadelarte.org

Sunday May 26

Love Yourself Healthy Women’s Conference 1:00 PM The Admiral Hotel, Mobile, AL, 36602 The Love Yourself Healthy Women’s Conference is the Port City’s inaugural health and self-love promotion event in honor of National Women Wellness Month. www.lushconsultingfirm.com/lyhwomensconference Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 2:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 251-457-8887 cctshows.com The Great Inflatable Race 6:00 PM Mobile Fairgrounds, 1035 Cody Rd North Mobile, AL, 36608 The Great Inflatable Race is a fun run with inflatable obstacles spread throughout the running course. You and your friends will feel like kids again as you jump, dive and bounce on our custom-designed inflatables. Get fit, support a good cause and create epic memories that will last you a lifetime! www.thegreatinflatablerace.com/mobile Sunset Concert Fort Gaines, Dauphin Island, AL www.dauphinislandchamberofcommerce.com

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

Monday May 27

Memorial Day- DIVA Ceremony - Water Tower Plaza 11:00 AM Water Tower Plaza, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 DIVA Memorial Wall ceremony is scheduled for Monday, May 27 at 11 AM at Water Tower Plaza. townofdauphinisland.org

Wednesday May 29

Brown Bag in Bienville 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Bienville Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Spring has sprung in downtown Mobile! Come out and listen to the soothing Sounds of live jazz as you lunch in Bienville Square around the historic Ketchum Fountain. Catt Sirten sets up live musicians and the City sets up tables for your enjoyment each Wednesday in the Spring. www.ncsmobile.org

Thursday May 30

Market in the Park for Summer 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Lavretta Park, 200 Parkway West Mobile, AL, 36608 Market in the Park for Summer 251-208-1550 www.specialeventsmobile.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 - Cars townofdauphinisland.org

Friday May 31

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 251-457-8887 cctshows.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Details May 30. Movie - Free Willy townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday June 1

Publix Grandman Triathlon 7:00 AM Fairhope Pier, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Publix Grandman Triathlon www.mobilebaykeeper.org/the-grandman-triathlon Mobile Public Library Kick-off (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Ben May Main Library and West Regional Library, Mobile, AL Many of the local libraries have very exciting events and activities during the summer. Summer Reading Celebration - Movies, Activities, STEAM Projects, Clubs and more! We encourage you to visit your local library’s website for details! The Mobile Public Library Kick-off will be held at the Ben May Main Library and West Regional Library on Saturday, June 1 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. The FREE program runs from June 1 – July 31. Children can sign up any time during the eight weeks and are encouraged to set reading goals for the summer. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 251-457-8887 cctshows.com

Abba Shrine Craft & Attic Show ($3) Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, AL, 36695 We will have amazing crafts, vendors, antiques and attic items for sale. Something for everyone. 251-895-3821

Sunday June 2

2019 Publix Jubilee Kids Triathlon 7:30 AM Fairhope Pier, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join us in the beautiful city of Fairhope, AL for the Jubilee Kids Triathlon on Sunday, June 2 at 7:30 a.m. at the Fairhope Pier. www.mobilebaykeeper.org/jubilee-kids-triathlon Bunny Hop 1:00 PM B&B Pet Stop, 5035 Cottage Hill Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Bring your bunny to the “Bunny Hop” - a fun and educational PARTY for bunnies. Check out our “Rabbit Nutrition” center for the latest info on foods and hays. Bring your bunny to the “Rabbit Grooming” area to have your pet’s nails trimmed and learn the proper way to brush and bathe your bunny. And back by popular demand: the “Rabbit Treat Buffet” where your rabbit can sample many of the tasty treats we sell. www.bbpetstop.com Explore Mobile 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Mardi Gras Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 Attendees will be able to explore 300 years of Mobile History inside the History Museum of Mobile, experience Colonial life inside the walls of the Colonial Fort of Mobile, gaze upon the period rooms of the Conde-Charlotte Museum House, step back in time as they navigate the Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail and more! exploremobile.org Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 2:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 251-457-8887 cctshows.com Abba Shrine Craft & Attic Show ($3) Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, AL, 36695 We will have amazing crafts, vendors, antiques and attic items for sale. Something for everyone. 251-895-3821

Monday June 3

Summer Movie Monday (Free) 10:00 AM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Parkway Mobile, AL, 36605 Summer Movie - Space Jam www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Mystery Monday! (Free) 2:00 PM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Special guests, Maker Lab projects, movies, crafts and so much more! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s 50th Birthday Celebration! 3:00 PM West Regional Library, 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 There will be party games, snacks and a whole lot of fun! This program is designed especially for 3 – 5 year olds but all family members are welcome to attend. Registration is required. For more information, please call 340-8571 or email westyou@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Cabaret Under the Stars Opening Night Gala 7:30 PM Ever Blue Performance Theatre, Point Clear, AL, 36564 Featuring the music of Sondheim, Jason Robert Brown, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Jerome Kern,

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FamilyCalendar Kander and Ebb, and Andrew Lippa, Cabaret Under the Stars is a musical review of some of the best moments of Broadway. Ever Blue Young Artists and Guest artists from New York will present an evening of musical delight. 251-278-0330 everbluearts.com

Tuesday June 4

Tuesday Teen Matinees (Free) 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Tuesday Teen Matinees - Aquaman www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Movie Time with Mr. Butch (Free) 1:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Movie Time with Mr. Butch 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 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 Tech Tuesday (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. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

An Evening of Frank Sinatra Ever Blue Performance Theatre, Point Clear, AL, 36564 Staring vocal artist Peter Lake, An Evening of Frank Sinatra is a musical journey of some of the best most memorable music ever recorded. Complete with a three piece band, An Evening of Frank Sinatra will feature the songs that made Sinatra the legend he is. 251-278-0330 everbluearts.com

Thursday June 6

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

Teen Tuesdays in the Teen Spot! (Free) 4:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Love the Stars? Come to the Teen Spot and make your own Starry Snow Globe. Supplies and snacks provided. 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

Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Details May 30. Movie - Finding Nemo townofdauphinisland.org

Family Bingo Night (Free) 6:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Prizes will be awarded and lemonade and popcorn will be served. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Night Market at Mobile Museum of Art Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Buy local, support local! Night Market is an event hosted by MMofA showcasing makers, artists, artisans, and craftsmen who make locally-sourced, handmade goods. Additional fun includes great food and drink from local food trucks, the DJ stylings of Neil Byrne aka Hot Lobster, and live music. www.mobilemuseumofart.com

Wednesday June 5

Movie of the Week - Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (Free) 10:00 AM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Movie of the Week www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Summerflix (Free) 1:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Summerflix - Wall-E www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 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 The Pact presents “School of Rock: The Musical” 7:30 PM The Steeple, 251 Saint Francis Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Facility for Performing Arts Creative Training presents School of Rock: The Musical at The Steeple on St. Francis this June 6 & 7. www.thepactmobile.com

The Marlow Boys Live Ever Blue Performance Theatre, Point Clear, AL, 36564 An Alabama Coast favorite, the Marlowe Boys is a fourpiece roots rock band from Fairhope, Alabama. Known for their harmonies and comfortable sound, the Marlow Boys Live will be an evening of music and memories. 251-278-0330 everbluearts.com

Friday June 7

Pop up Maker Lab (Free) 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Come see what new and exciting things you can make at our Maker Lab. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org JJP Presents: Hello, Dolly! 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Jerry Herman’s energetic Hello, Dolly! is a musical filled with charisma and heart. www.joejeffersonplayers.com

The Pact presents “School of Rock: The Musical” 7:30 PM The Steeple, 251 Saint Francis Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Facility for Performing Arts Creative Training, better known as The PACT, presents School of Rock: The Musical at The Steeple on St. Francis this June 6 & 7. www.thepactmobile.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Details May 30. townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday June 8

Market in the Park 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Market in the Park on Saturdays April 27 to July 27. www.ncsmobile.org Second Annual Gulf Coast Amateur Piano Competition 9:30 AM Broussard’s Piano Gallery, 1541 East Interstate 65 Service Rd South Mobile, AL, 36606 We are pleased to announce the Second Annual Gulf Coast Amateur Piano Competition. This event is open to all pianists who are not currently employed teaching piano at an institution or school of music. There are no age or education requirements. Registration fee is 10 dollars. 251-344-8856 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 Crawfish Boil & Cornhole Tournament 2:00 PM Stewartfield Springhill College, Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us at Stewartfield on the Spring Hill College campus for a Crawfish Boil & Cornhole Tournament benefiting Dwell Mobile! Get your Cornhole team ready to compete or simply plan on enjoying the afternoon with crawfish and yard games. To make it even better, Fat Man Squeeze will be providing live music throughout the event. www.eventbrite.com 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 JJP Presents: Hello, Dolly! 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Jerry Herman’s energetic Hello, Dolly! is a musical filled with charisma and heart. www.joejeffersonplayers.com 6th Annual Dragon Boat Festival USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park., Mobile, AL, 36602 On Saturday, June 8th, 2019 over 1500 paddlers and 10,000 spectators will witness Fuse Project’s Sixth Annual Dragon Boat Festival. Teams of 20 paddlers, 1 drummer, and an experienced steerer will rock the

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FamilyCalendar water in a 46 foot authentic Hong Kong style Dragon Boat at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park. Fuse Project’s Dragon Boat Festival is a family-friendly, alcohol free event. In addition to watching the races, Fuse Project will have food trucks, fashion trucks, a petting zoo, a trackless train, a gyro gym, jumpies, pony rides, all of the wonderful exhibits at The Battleship and they usually have something “WOW” up their sleeves that you won’t want to miss! www.fuseproject.org/dragonboat2019 Sister Act by Alan Menken and Cheri and Bill Steinkellner Ever Blue Performance Theatre, Point Clear, AL, 36564 Based on the blockbuster movie with Whoopi Goldberg, Sister Act is a feel-good musical comedy that will have audiences jumping to their feet. Filled with powerful gospel music, dance and an incredible story of determination, Sister Act is one for the whole family that features a professional and young artist cast. 251-278-0330 everbluearts.com

Sunday June 9

Autism Society of Alabama Picnic for Autistic Teens and Young Adults 11:00 AM 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 The Autism Society of Alabama will be hosting a picnic for Autistic Teens and Young Adults and their parents. This event will give individuals an opportunity to meet other individuals living on the autism spectrum and allow families to make connections with other families living along the Gulf Coast. www.autism-alabama.org Market at the Pillars 12:00 PM The Pillars, 1757 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36604 Shop Local Farmers, Crafters, Bakers and Makers, Local Eats & Live Music

www.joejeffersonplayers.com

JJP Presents: Hello, Dolly! 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Jerry Herman’s energetic Hello, Dolly! is a musical filled with charisma and heart.

Monday June 10

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

Mystery Monday! (Free) 2:00 PM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Who knows what you will find! Special guests, Maker Lab projects, movies, crafts and so much more! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Art Lab (Free) 3:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Come make your masterpiece at the Library! We provide the supplies and you provide the creativity. 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

Tuesday June 11

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 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 Movie Time with Mr. Butch 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 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 Teen Tuesdays in the Teen Spot! (Free) 4:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Love the Stars? Come to the Teen Spot and make your own Starry Snow Globe. Supplies and snacks provided. 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 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 Pajama Party (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

Wednesday June 12

Kids Gulf Discovery Day at Bellingrath Gardens and Home ($14 for adults and $8 for children ages 5-12. There is no admission fee for Bellingrath members or for ages 4 and younger. ) 9:00 AM

Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36582 A wide variety of environmental organizations will be on hand for activities and demonstrations from 9 a.m. to noon. Children will get a close up look at the creatures of Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s Touch Tables, and the Environmental Studies Center will present an exciting Raptor Road Show on the Great Lawn, featuring rehabilitated hawks, owls, ospreys and other birds of prey. The Raptor Road Show times are 9:15, 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. Guests may also take a 45-minute guided cruise along the beautiful Fowl River with our friends from Wild Native Delta Safaris! Space is limited and reservations are required for the cruises; to register, call 251-459-8864. bellingrath.org Movie of the Week - Bumblebee (Free) 10:00 AM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Movie of the Week www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Learning Lunch (Free) 12:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Learning lunch featuring Charles Parmenter, Co-owner of Olde Mobile Antiques Gallery, Octavia Le Vert and Augusta Evans Wilson, Women Ahead of Their Time. www.historymuseumofmobile.com/learning-lunch Summerflix (Free) 1:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Summerflix - How to Train Your Dragon 2 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 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

Thursday June 13

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

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FamilyCalendar Art Talk-Mobile Museum of Art 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Art Talk with Bob Miller. www.mobilemuseumofart.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Details May 30. Movie - Soul Surfer townofdauphinisland.org

Friday June 14

Oreo Phases of the Moon (Free) 2:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Let’s use Oreos to understand the phases of the moon! Come learn about the moon and have a sweet treat too! Registration is required. For information or to register, please call the children’s department at 340-8571 or email westyou@mplonline.org. 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 Crafting with Mr. Butch (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Join Mr. Butch as we create Tape Paintings.. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Movie Night at The Loblolly ($10 parking fee) 4:00 PM The Loblolly, 9930 Stone Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Movie Night is our premier family oriented, community event. Parking, giant inflatable screen airing classic family films, food and concessions available. All movies are decided on by the public through our facebook page: Loblolly Farm. Bring your coolers, chairs and blankets! Gate opens at 4 PM with food and beverages from local vendors, jump castle and games for the children and Movie Night at The Loblolly starting at 8:15 PM www.loblollyfarm.com ArtWalk 6:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join downtown art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops as they open their doors and welcome you inside to see beautiful artwork, sample delicious foods and hear the sounds of the LoDa Artwalk. www.specialeventsmobile.org JJP Presents: Hello, Dolly! 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Jerry Herman’s energetic Hello, Dolly! is a musical filled with charisma and heart. www.joejeffersonplayers.com The Fab Four 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 If you want to experience the best Beatles tribute ever, you won’t want to miss The Fab Four www.mobilesaenger.com

Saturday June 15

Ride Yellow 7:00 AM Halliday Park, Bay Minette, AL, 36507 RIDEYELLOW is an Infirmary Health charity bike ride held annually on the Saturday before Father’s Day. The ride begins at Halliday Park in Bay Minette, Alabama, with a 6-mile tribute ride. Individuals can choose to participate in only the tribute ride or continue by pedaling the 10, 20, 37 or 62 mile route at their leisure. Rest

stops are available along the way and food, beverages and vendor booths are available when riders return to the park. rideyellow.racesonline.com Market in the Park 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Market in the Park on Saturdays April 27 to July 27. www.ncsmobile.org Living History Drill 8:00 AM Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 The living history crew will be in the park helping to celebrate the annual Crewmen’s Association reunion and the 50th Anniversary of the USS DRUM at Battleship Memorial Park. Special tours, reenactments and more are planned for the day. Included in admission. www.ussalabama.com Drop In Make & Take (Free) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Stop by the Library and make your own Galaxy Bracelet! www.mobilepubliclibrary.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! 18 months-3 years. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 2019 Summer Library Celebration - Author Mary Alice Monroe (Free) 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Calling all Book Lovers! Come meet New York Times best-selling author, Mary Alice Monroe as she introduces her latest work, The Summer Guests. 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! Mythbusters - Lets put myths to the test with science. Ages 8 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org JJP Presents: Hello, Dolly! 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Jerry Herman’s energetic Hello, Dolly! is a musical filled with charisma and heart. www.joejeffersonplayers.com Reptile Extravaganza B&B Pet Stop, 5035 Cottage Hill Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Come to the Reptile Extravaganza to get up close and personal with lots of reptiles that make good pets. It is a great opportunity to learn which snake, lizard, or spider is the right one for you and your family. www.bbpetstop.com

Sunday June 16

JJP Presents: Hello, Dolly! 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Jerry Herman’s energetic Hello, Dolly! is a musical filled with charisma and heart. www.joejeffersonplayers.com Reptile Extravaganza B&B Pet Stop, 5035 Cottage Hill Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Come to the Reptile Extravaganza to get up close and

personal with lots of reptiles that make good pets. It is a great opportunity to learn which snake, lizard, or spider is the right one for you and your family. www.bbpetstop.com

Monday June 17

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 encouraged. For more information or to register, please call 340-8571 or email westyou@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Summer Movie Monday (Free) 10:00 AM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Parkway Mobile, AL, 36605 Summer Movie - Zathura: A Space Adventure 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 encouraged. For more information or to register, please call 340-8571 or email westyou@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Mystery Monday! (Free) 2:00 PM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Who knows what you will find! Special guests, Maker Lab projects, movies, crafts and so much more! 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

Tuesday June 18

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 Movie Time with Mr. Butch 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 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 Teen Tuesdays in the Teen Spot! (Free) 4:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Creative Writing 101 - Have a great story but not sure where to begin? Start with the Teen Spot! Learn how to plot out a story or just fly by the

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FamilyCalendar seat of your pants as your story takes control. You bring the ideas and we will supply the brain fuel! 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 space bath bombs. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 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

Wednesday June 19

Movie of the Week - Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie (Free) 10:00 AM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Movie of the Week www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Summerflix (Free) 1:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Summerflix - Home www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 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

Thursday June 20

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 Out of This World Movies (Free) 10:30 AM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, AL, 36571 Movie - Space Jam www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Market in the Park for Summer 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Lavretta Park, 200 Parkway West Mobile, AL, 36608 Market in the Park for Summer 251-208-1550 www.specialeventsmobile.org 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 Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Details May 30. Movie - The Lego Batman townofdauphinisland.org

Friday June 21

Pop up Maker Lab (Free) 2:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Come see what new and exciting things you can make at our Maker Lab. Parental supervision is required for anyone under age 10. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

JJP Presents: Hello, Dolly! 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Jerry Herman’s energetic Hello, Dolly! is a musical filled with charisma and heart. www.joejeffersonplayers.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Details May 30. Movie - Happy Feet 1 townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday June 22

Market in the Park 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Market in the Park on Saturdays April 27 to July 27. www.ncsmobile.org The PACT’s Frozen JR: Audition Workshop ($20) 10:00 AM The PACT, 3995 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, AL, 36609 The PACT will host an audition/callback workshop on June 22 from 10am-12pm. This workshop will be great prep for those auditioning, or for those who would like to refine skills. At this workshop, students will learn the audition & callback dance prior to auditions & callbacks. As well as going over what to expect at auditions and callbacks. 251-307-5056 thepactmobile.com 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 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 own Balloon Hovercrafts. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org JJP Presents: Hello, Dolly! 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Jerry Herman’s energetic Hello, Dolly! is a musical filled with charisma and heart. www.joejeffersonplayers.com The Drifters 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Drifters in concert. www.mobilesaenger.com

Sunday June 23

Back to the Bogue 2019 7:00 AM SAMMBA’s Back to the Bogue 2019 is here! This race is apart of the Gulf South Regional MTB Series. legacy.usacycling.org/register/2019-1307 JJP Presents: Hello, Dolly! 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Jerry Herman’s energetic Hello, Dolly! is a musical filled with charisma and heart. www.joejeffersonplayers.com

Sunset Concert - Lisa Mills Band ($5.00 (Ages 13

and over))

6:00 PM West End Beach, Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Sunset Concert series. Bring beach chairs, blankets and bug spray. townofdauphinisland.org

Monday June 24

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 encouraged. For more information or to register, please call 340-8571 or email westyou@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Summer Movie Monday (Free) 10:00 AM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Parkway Mobile, AL, 36605 Summer Movie - E. T. The Extra-Terrestrial 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 encouraged. For more information or to register, please call 340-8571 or email westyou@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Mystery Monday! (Free) 2:00 PM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Who knows what you will find! Special guests, Maker Lab projects, movies, crafts and so much more! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Galaxy Slime (Free) 3:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Come make glittery, galaxy slime at the Library! Ages 5 and up. 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 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

Tuesday June 25

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FamilyCalendar 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 Teen Tuesdays in the Teen Spot! (Free) 4:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Create Your Own T-Shirt. Bring your own T-shirt and create your one of a kind style using cool designs from the Library! 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 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

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Summerflix (Free) 1:00 PM Semmes Branch, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Summerflix - Up www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 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 information or to register, please call the children’s department at 340-8571 or email westyou@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 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

Thursday June 27

ents 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

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

Market in the Park for Summer 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Lavretta Park, 200 Parkway West Mobile, AL, 36608 Market in the Park for Summer 251-208-1550 www.specialeventsmobile.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

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 selfexpression! 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

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

Wednesday July 3

Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Details May 30. Movie - Ice Age townofdauphinisland.org

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/

Friday June 28

Thursday July 4

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 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

Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Details May 30. Movie - Happy Feet 2 townofdauphinisland.org

Market in the Park 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Market in the Park on Saturdays April 27 to July 27. www.ncsmobile.org

July 4th Celebration 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

Classes/Meetings

Distinguished Young Women 62nd National Finals Second Preliminary 7:00 PM Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL, 36602 The 62nd National Finals as the Class of 2019 competes in fitness, talent and self-expression! www.distinguishedyw.org

Saturday June 29

Grand Bay Watermelon Festival 8:00 AM - 4:00 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/

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

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FamilyCalendar 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 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 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, 5:30pm-until. 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 251610-5264. 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 251431-5100. 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 24HOUR 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, 9:3011:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Call 251-479-5700 to register. *The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. See daily listings for class topics. *Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 weeks. *Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (Four things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. *Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks.251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center classes. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. www.familycentermobile.org or www. Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile. La Leche League Mobile Bay Area Breastfeeding support meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Meetings are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader. 251-689-2085, 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

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

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 461-2438. • Breastfeeding Class One Wednesday per month. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Family Center. Benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, going back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation Classes Four consecutive Mondays (6:30-9 p.m.) at The Family Center. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units. Cost: $25 if delivering at Springhill Hospital. Call 3407769 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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Puzzles: Putting It All Together

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Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Puzzles are the perfect plaything to help the physical and mental growth of young children. Manipulating diverse pieces into a whole image, planned or freeform, is ideal for healthy development. From supporting both fine and gross motor control to fostering shape recognition and problem-solving skills, providing children with puzzles gives them a great start on figuring out how it all fits together. The following products sample puzzles that can help foster child development while boosting their self-esteem with a job well done.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Winding Snail and Elephant Wooden Jigsaw Puzzles

Fidget Snake Cubes (Ganawo)

With a linear twist on Rubik’s Cube manipulation, Fidget Snake Cubes feature a length of colorful interlocking triangles that fold, rotate and lock into unlimited shapes and configurations. In addition to offering children creative control of the outcomes, the ‘snakes’ satisfy little hands’ need for sensory engagement. Unlike traditional puzzle pieces that are placed and left static, the shapes that emerge from this solid state puzzle are always open to continual adjustment, improvement and change. The set includes three snake cubes in different color schemes. Open-ended, portable and full of potential for endless outcomes, Fidget Snake Cubes put the power of creative puzzle play into the littlest busy hands.

(Monilon)

Following the easily recognized shapes of a snail and elephant, Monilon’s jigsaw puzzles combine the satisfaction of picture puzzle assembly with numerical and alphabetical literacy. Young problem-solvers can choose to build the puzzle with visual cues to its shape or they can use number/letter order to guide the pieces into the proper places. Fifty-two colorful, splinter-free smooth sanded wood pieces ensure easy and safe exploration of the puzzle journey. Whether puzzling solo or with the company of a parent or playmate, this durable puzzle set provides kids with more than one way to put it all together.

Transformer Robot Cube

Pattern Blocks and Boards

From compact cube to action hero, the connected elements of the Transformer Robot Cube twist, turn and rotate to create a figure with a surprising variety of posing and movement options. Ideal for fostering fine motor skills and problem-solving, this anthropomorphic figure is also ready-made for pretend-play scenarios at any time. The bigger challenge is finding the right order of moves to return the robot to its original cube shape, but it doesn’t hinder the entertainment value while kids explore the robot play alternatives. With no scattered pieces to depend on and to keep up, the Transformer Robot Cube is an all-inclusive portable puzzle fun option. It’s a robot! It’s a cube! Get you a puzzle that can do both!

A bright alternative to interlocking puzzles, the Melissa and Doug Pattern Blocks and Boards creates a more versatile experience in symmetry, patterns and manipulatives. This boxed set features double-sided templates that provide kids with excellent guidance for puzzle building. Using 120 wooden blocks in a broad variety of shapes and colors, kids can create linear patterns, sort blocks by color, count pieces, and more. Reminiscent of tangrams and math manipulatives, the patterns offer challenging guidelines for straight-edge puzzle solving. As kids become familiar with the shapes and how they align, the blocks can become creative elements in a child’s original configurations and designs, expanding the puzzle repertoire for young builders.

(Melissa & Doug)

(Tissa)

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

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The Sun Is Also a Star

Pokemon: Detective Pikachu

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: B Sexual Content: BProfanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: A Is it possible to fall in love with someone in just one day? Daniel Bae (Charles Melton) certainly thinks so. Mesmerized by Natasha Kingsley (Yara Shahidi), who he has just met, he bets he can make her fall in love with him in 24 hours – or one, if time is limited. Natasha, a hard-headed realist, doesn’t believe in love, let alone instant love. But Daniel assures her that if she answers carefully selected questions, they will fall for each other. What Daniel doesn’t know is that he is racing against the clock in more ways than one: Natasha and her family are undocumented immigrants and are scheduled to be deported on the following day. Parents may well be delighted to know that The Sun Is Almost a Star is one of the cleanest teen romantic dramas to hit the big screen recently. It features minimal swearing, no drug or alcohol use, and one fistfight. Even sexual content is limited to embracing, kissing, and one make-out session where the young couple remain fully clothed. Despite the movie’s irksome cinematography and improbable plot, it’s still be an enjoyable viewing experience for fans of romantic drama, and that is entirely due to the cast. Charles Melton and Yara Shahidi have a magnetic screen presence and real chemistry, which compensates for the occasionally awkward dialogue and the moments where the acting can feel a bit studied. The young couple have such vibrant energy and such unbelievable good looks that it is almost impossible to tear one’s eyes away from the screen.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: A When Tim (Justice Smith) hears from the Ryme City Police Department that his estranged father has been killed in the line of duty, he sets out for the big city to clean out his father’s apartment. Once there, he finds a strange vial full of purple gas and an amnesiac Pikachu (Ryan Reynolds) snooping around. To his astonishment, Tim can understand the Pikachu and learns that he has a connection to Tim’s father. Together, they decide to get to the bottom of his father’s disappearance and begin to follow the leads on his final investigation. With the help of reporter Lucy Stevens (Kathryn Newton) and her Psyduck, Tim and Pikachu find that the investigation goes far deeper than they ever could have imagined. I’ll admit, I was kind of expecting this movie to be 90 minutes of boiled trash. Instead, it’s 104 minutes of surprisingly funny and heartfelt storytelling. Ryan Reynolds brings his usual repertoire of high-speed deadpan comedy, but at a much more child appropriate level than his similar turn in Deadpool. Much like Shrek and Toy Story, this film features good mix of comedy: there’s loads of slapstick and silly jokes for younger viewers, and plenty of wry observations (and the odd mild double entendre) for parents. Pokémon: Detective Pikachu is one of the funnier family movies I’ve seen lately. Best of all, the movie keeps its runtime down so the kids don’t get bored and the adults won’t get irritated. If you’re looking for entertainment for a wide age range, you can definitely choose this Pokémon tale.

Tolkien

A Dog’s Journey

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: AViolence: C Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: C Nicolas Hoult shines as John Ronald Ruel Tolkien, a troubled orphan born in South Africa, navigating the socially complex world of British private schools and the usual struggles of adolescence and early adulthood. Eventually he gathers together a cadre of likeminded friends who call themselves the “Tea Club and Barrovian Society” – a group dedicated to using art to change the world. But Tolkien’s problems aren’t over: he also finds himself infatuated with a young woman named Edith who lives in the boarding house he shares with his brother. And academics are challenging; even a man of Tolkien’s brilliance struggles to maintain his scholarship to Oxford. Come 1914, everything he knows is threatened by the outbreak of the Great War- will he be able to hold on to everything he has found in the conflict? To be honest, I’m not entirely sure if my lifelong obsession with Tolkien’s work is the reason that I enjoyed this film so much or if it is a fine movie on its own merits. But I’d argue that the film is objectively good, based on the following criteria. First, the writing manages to be entertaining without becoming comedic. Secondly, the casting is very well done. As far as parental concerns go, the primary issues with Tolkien are violence and alcohol use, neither of which should trouble teen viewers. The violence is well contextualized in WWI and is portrayed very negatively. That said, it can be intense, and some scenes are too frightening for small children. The alcohol use mostly takes the form of social drinking between schoolmates. While this isn’t commendable, it also isn’t glamorized.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: C In 2017, A Dog’s Purpose introduced us to Bailey (voiced by Josh Gad), a lovable dog whose loyalty to his beloved master Ethan (Dennis Quaid) was literally stronger than death. Reincarnated over and over again, Bailey learned that his purpose was to watch over Ethan forever. But now it’s time for the sequel, A Dog’s Journey, and soon Bailey is dying again. As Bailey slips away, Ethan gives him a new purpose – to protect and watch out for his granddaughter C.J. (Abby Ryder Fortson/Kathryn Prescott) And, boy, does C.J. need protecting. Born one month after her father’s untimely death, C.J. has spent her first two years living with grandparents Ethan and Hannah (Marg Helgenberger) and her immature, self-absorbed mother, Gloria (Betty Gilpin). Convinced that Ethan and Hannah look down on her and want to take her child, Gloria leaves in a huff and refuses to allow the doting grandparents to see C.J. again. Drowning her sorrows in copious amounts of alcohol, Gloria neglects her child and squanders the insurance money that was supposed to provide for C.J.’s future. Clearly, help is needed and this is when Bailey re-enters C.J.’s life, ready to fulfill his purpose. A Dog’s Journey is basically the cinematic equivalent of comfort food: it’s neither innovative nor interesting but it sure makes you feel better. Parents will feel good about taking older kids to this movie, thanks to its lack of profanity and sexual content. The movie feels like a Hallmark TV special, and no matter how bleak things may look, audiences know that this movie’s purpose is to deliver a sentimental, happy-ever-after ending.

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2019

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Alabama Ranks

#44

in HPV Vaccinations in the United States

ALABAMAPUBLICHEALTH.GOV/ORALHEALTH

ORAL HEALTH OFFICE Promoting Smiles Across a Lifetime