Mobile Bay Parents June 2016 by KeepSharing

Give kids like Jordan every chance to be a kid again.

PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE THE MIRACLES ARE.

JORDAN, 5 YEARS OLD VEIN OF GALEN MALFORMATION PATIENT

Thanks to the expert care and research at her hospital, Jordan survived a serious vein malformation at birth that caused blood to rush directly to her heart. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® donations helped fund the developments and devices used in her treatment and surgeries. Today, Jordan is full of energy and loves to be in the spotlight, dancing and charming everyone she meets. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals raises funds and awareness for 170 member hospitals that provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the U.S. and Canada. Donations stay local to fund critical treatments, pediatric medical equipment and charitable care. Find out why children’s hospitals need community support to help kids like Jordan and identify your member hospital at CMNHospitals.org and facebook.com/CMNHospitals.

Give Today

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June 2016 4

Volume 6 Number 1

Columns

Mom of the Month 4

Living With Children John Rosemond

Living with Children Advice for encouraging a shy child to be more social, while not pushing or labeling.

Ready, Set, Summer!

A little organization on the front end goes a long way in planning for a successful season.

Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Medical Group

Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

2016 Summer Fun

Our listing leads you to activities and fun throughout Mobile this summer!

Darling Daughters

Encouraging dads to bond with their girls in different ways at different stages.

On The Cover Parker (3) is the son of Paige and Rick Regan and little brother to Sophia (13) and Zachary (10). Proud grandparents are Jean Presley and the late Orie (Bubba) Presley, and Donna Regan and the late Joseph Regan. Parker loves being outdoors and swimming during the summer!

A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 6

Bits and Pieces 11

School Bits 48

Family Calendar 52

Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

MomOfTheMonth Instant thoughts of relaxation and family fun come to mind when thinking of summertime. Our family looks forward to the much-needed break from school, career related routines, extra curricular activities and the everyday rush to make the details of our family’s schedule fall into place. Our excitement starts with daydreams of being at the beach while sitting in carpool. Memories of summers past and anticipation of the cherished upcoming family time fill our thoughts. As summer approaches and plans for the first family vacation have been perfectly set into place, the dreams of stress free days and relaxation are welcomed, and the family is instantly in a new, refreshed state of mind. The stress-free environment of vacation lends to even more treasured moments spent with our children and family. The unstructured schedule allows families to make plans with other family members. We all enjoy pool time, cookouts and appreciate the little things like just sitting outside and talking while having morning coffee together and watching the surf from the balcony. Watching the children play on the beach and using their sweet and innocent imaginations is so much fun. These times are precious and valued as we create lifelong memories. If, like us, you are in the midst of making summertime plans, you will want to read Ready, Set, Summer! 10 Tips for Planning a Successful Season by Beth Davis. In her article she gives some great planning tips that we can all use. If you are looking for some summer family outing ideas, make sure you turn to page 34 for the 2016 Summer Fun Guide. Here you will find several ideas to keep the family active and engaged. As we move along through the season of fun in the sun we still like to be involved in summer activities, just at a much slower pace than the rest of the year. Many plans are made for summer camps, swim teams, play dates and sleepovers. Summer activities are very important for our children. We not only want them to have fun, but also continue to use the skills and abilities they acquired in school year programs...and even broaden their interests. There are many summer camps they love to be involved with such as tennis, basketball, art, horseback riding and, of course, swim lessons for the little one. These are good ways for them stay involved with their friends, keep busy, and at the same time maintain a healthy body and mind. As the children grow every summer their interests change, new friendships develop and these activities help facilitate the ability to have an open mind and try new things. Summer fun is achieved in so many ways with our family, but it always includes time spent together with family and friends and in a more relaxed state. These are some of the most important reasons we look forward to summer every year. We certainly appreciate all of the seasons, but living on the Gulf Coast there are so many great places to go in the summer for family fun...and we enjoy everything from the beach to the park or zoo. Being outside with the warm sun on our faces (with sunscreen of course!) and spending time together with our family and friends just can’t be topped!

Mobile Bay’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@mobilebayparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@mobilebayparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Lucy Green Contributing Writers Jennifer Adair, M.D. Beth N. Davis Laura Handey Carolyn Jabs Dave Ramsey Paige Regan John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Hannah Stinson www.hannahstinsonphotography.com

President Jason Watson Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall Danielle Nicholas ads@mobilebayparents.com (251) 304-1200 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 2016 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.

Paige Regan Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

Mobile Bay

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Encouraging Shy Child to Be Social

2. Q: Our 7-year-old is very shy. He doesn’t enjoy the sort of social activities, including sports, that other kids his age are generally involved in and would rather play alone. He has one friend who is also quite shy. His mother and I have conspired to arrange weekly play dates, but whereas the boys get along fine, both kids sometimes balk at cooperating with them. My son occasionally tells me he’d rather read or play alone than play with this other boy. When I ask why, he tells me he “just would.” His school counselor has recommended that the other mother and I put the boys together on a regular basis no matter what. My son does well in school, does his homework on his own, is very creative, and is a happy camper when it’s just us and his older brother. Your thoughts, please. A: As your great-grandmother might have said, “It takes all kinds to make the world go ‘round.”

Like any other trait, sociability is distributed among a general population of children according to the bell-shaped curve. Theoretically at least, for every child who is very outgoing there’s a child who is very shy. According to several studies, most shy children have fully “recovered” by age 30. That finding, in fact, applies to yours truly. While reluctance to engage socially with other children can result from trauma, most shy kids are simply “born that way.” I put the term in quotes because no one really knows what causes some otherwise high-functioning kids— as appears to be the case with your son—to be socially reticent from an early age. Like your son, many if not most shy children are independent, intelligent, imaginative and creative and therefore very adept at entertaining themselves. They are inclined toward hobbies, art, musical instruments and other activities that don’t require the participation of other children. Whereas they’d rather play alone than in a group, shy children are more socially empathetic than highly outgoing kids.

They feel very secure in their families and may, therefore, bond more effectively to their families’ values than outgoing kids. In other words, shyness has a positive side. Forcing a shy child to engage in group activities is likely to increase social anxiety, so I don’t recommend it. Arranging one-onone activities or play dates with another shy child will probably be mutually beneficial, however, so I agree with the school counselor: you and the other mother should continue conspiring. If your son complains that he doesn’t feel like playing with the other child, simply say, “You don’t have to. I’ve invited them over because I enjoy (the other mother’s) company.” I will bet they’ll end up playing with one another. As much as possible, do outdoor things. Go to a park and fly kites, enroll both boys in golf lessons (a great sport for shy kids), go on hikes, take field trips to museums. Enroll them in chess lessons. These sorts of activities will provide good opportunities for them to form a stronger relationship. Whereas you can’t fool Mother Nature, you can push her along a bit. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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Zika virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of infected mosquitoes. These mosquitoes typically lay eggs in and near standing water in items such as buckets, bowls, animal dishes, flower pots and vases.

1. Stay informed

2. Learn about basic injury and disease prevention 3. Look for the most current information on emergency preparedness 4. Create a family preparedness plan 5. Become familiar with the emergency plans of your community

prepare store essential items Water Food Can Opener First Aid Kit Flashlight

Radio Clothes Personal Care Items Important Documents

Avoid the Bite! You can help prevent the spread of Zika and other mosquito-borne diseases by preventing mosquito bites and breeding. For the most up-to-date information on Zika Virus and other mosquito-borne diseases in Alabama, visit www.adph.org/mosquito or call 1-800-252-1818.

practice Practice and review your preparedness plan every six months Plan. prepare. practice.

http://www.adph.org

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Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament

2016 Coastal Seafood Craze

On Friday, June 3, the Alabama Coastal Foundation will host the fifth annual Coastal Seafood Craze! The Craze will partner with the Mobile Bay Bears at the Hank Aaron Stadium Event Center (755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard, Mobile) from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. The Coastal Seafood Craze invites local restaurants to feature dishes made with locally caught seafood. Gulf Coast seafood is an important part of our local culture, and we need to do everything we can to support and celebrate it. We hope that you can come enjoy the best of what our local waters have to offer while enjoying a great American pastime! Please visit www.joinacf.org for more information.

The Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament is designed to bring families together and encourage sportsmanship. The tournament takes place on the Saturday before the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. RMYAT is for children 15 years and younger and it typically attracts more than 1500 young anglers. This year’s event takes place on July 9. The one-day event features 31 categories with prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes in all categories. One Master Angler is awarded. All participants receive a Zeigler hot dog, a Coca Cola, a Blue Bell ice cream, and a certificate. Winners will receive Mobile Bay Bears tickets. All proceeds benefit the Mobile Jaycees Children’s Christmas Shopping Tour. Please visit www.adsfr.com for more information.

Open Auditions for Mobile's Singing Children

Paddle Skedaddle!

Spend the morning on the water racing (or moseying) this 1.5 mile course with your family or as an individual! There will be awards, lots of fair games and concessions on the grounds! This familyfriendly event takes place at 5 Rivers (off the Causeway) on the June 4th. Boats launch from the launch site in front of Delta Safaris and line up at the docks at 5 Rivers. Spectators will cheer the boat teams as they start from the docks and race around a small island at the end of the cut-through that connects Sardine Pass with Justin’s Bay. While contestants are on the water, there are lots of fun activities for adults and children. After the race, there will be awards given in a number of categories including, “parent/child teams”, “most creatively dressed team”, “loudest cheering section”, the coveted “Pews and Canoes Award” for the church with the most supporters there, etc. Funds raised go to the USA Wesley Foundation Building Fun. Saturday, June 4, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please visit www.usawesley.com/paddle.html for more information.

Mobile's Singing Children announces open audition dates available May through August. Auditions are open to all children in 2nd - 12th grades. For more information or to schedule an audition you may visit us at www.mobilessingingchildren.org, call 251-285-2285 or email mobilesingingchildren@gmail.com.

Kids Days in Bienville Square

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! Free! Thursdays, June 9, 16, 23 & 30 from 10:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. For more information, please call (251) 208-1550. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

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Children’s Cup Regatta Adds Kayak Races to Schedule of Events

Distinguished Young Women 2016 Begins June 23

The Distinguished Young Women is a national scholarship program that inspires high school girls to develop their full, individual potential through a fun, transformative experience that culminates in a celebratory showcase of their accomplishments. Each year the 51 state representatives, including Washington DC, travel to Mobile, the June after their high school graduation to take part in the Distinguished Young Women National Finals. They spend two weeks getting to know girls from around the country, enjoying fun events, volunteering in the local community, developing Life Skills for college and beyond, rehearsing for the final showcase and performing on stage during our National Finals webcast. 2016 dates are June 23-25 with 1st Preliminaries on Thursday June 23, 2nd Preliminaries on Friday, June 24 and Finals Night on Saturday, June 25. For more information, please visit www.distinguishedyw.org.

The seventh annual Children’s Cup Regatta sets sail on June 11 to benefit patients from the Alabama Gulf Coast treated at Children’s of Alabama. Sailing enthusiasts and friends in Mobile and Baldwin counties are invited to enjoy a day of sailboat racing at the Fairhope Yacht Club, located at 101 Volanta Ave. New to this year’s events are the kayak races. The 1-mile Fun Paddle begins at 9 a.m. and the 2-mile competitive races begin at 10 a.m. Registration is $25 per boat. Guests are invited to watch the races free-of-charge beginning at 12:30 p.m. The kids’ activity area opens at 4 p.m. and features a waterslide, arts and crafts, games, and more. There will also be a silent auction, barbecue plates, a cash bar, and live music. The awards ceremony begins at 7 p.m. The entry fee for Performance Handicap Racing Fleet, Portsmouth, Rhodes 19 and Catalina 22 is $50 per boat. Youth Class entry fee is $25 per boat. A few boats will be available to take former Children’s of Alabama patients out to watch the sailing action close-up. For more information or to register online, visit http://give.childrensal.org/regatta2016.

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4th of July at USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

Just for the Mud of It 5K

Join us June 4 for Just for the Mud of It 5K with the first wave starting at 7:00 a.m. All proceeds from the event will be donated directly to the Mobile Police Department S.W.A.T. Team in order to raise money to send S.W.A.T. officers to specialized training schools and assist with purchasing new equipment. Just For the Mud of It is an approximate 5K course filled with mud and obstacles. The course includes running, climbing walls, low crawling through pits, balance beams, creek run, water pits, and lots of mud. This course was designed with the average person in mind. Race for prizes or run for fun. After the race enjoy food, music, raffles, and the awards presentation. Please visit www.justforthemudofit.org for more information.

Princess Sofia Dance Camp

Celebrate the 4th of July with the City of Mobile at Battleship Memorial Park. Enjoy live musical entertainment including our traditional patriotic concert, food from the Battleship’s Galley, and a dynamic fireworks show. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. The Park opens to spectators at 5 p.m. and the fireworks show is scheduled for 9 p.m. Admission is $5 per car. No food, alcoholic beverages or personal fireworks are allowed inside the Park. Sponsored by The City of Mobile, AL.COM, and the USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park. For more information call 251-433-2703.

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Monday & Wednesday or Tuesday & Thursday 5:45 - 7:15 p.m.

Ballet • Tumbling 3-5 Year and Games Olds

Ballet • Tumbling Story Time and Games

Power Tumbling Monday & Wednesday

Hip Hop Camp

Power Tumbling 1 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Power Tumbling 2 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Backbend/ Back Walkover Class

Monday & Wednesday or Tuesday & Thursday 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. 6 Years and Up

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GulfQuest presents Inaugural Race to the River

GulfQuest is pleased to announce the inaugural Race to the River, a 5K and Family Fun Run, on Saturday, June 18, to benefit the museum. “Following the opening of the Arthur Outlaw Convention Center, Cooper Riverside Park and the Alabama Cruise Terminal, the next phase was to create a “hub” of public activity on the Mobile Riverfront,” Tony Zodrow, GulfQuest Executive Director said. “As a signature attraction for the Gulf Coast, GulfQuest has become that hub, bringing tens of thousands of people to the Mobile Riverfront, most for the first time.” Zodrow said the inaugural Race to the River is another way to bring people right to the riverfront, to get them “up close and personal” with Mobile’s rich maritime heritage and culture. WISE DESIGN,“We INC.are excited about getting individuals and families down to the river for a fun-filled morning.” CLIENT While the start and finish lines for the 5K Run Debbie’s School of Dance and Family Fun Run will be at Ft. Conde Village, DESCRIPTION the post-race activities, including the awards Summer Danceceremony, Camps will take place along the river in front of GulfQuest. Those festivities will include HALF PAGE live music and refreshments, including a local Magazine Ad favorite—shrimp and grits, provided by The Galley (GulfQuest’s café)—plus door prizes. PUB All registered race and fun run participants Mobile Bay Parents will be entered to win door prizes that include INSERTION a GulfQuest Family Membership and a child’s March and April 2016 GulfQuest birthday party. “What’s also unique about Race to the River is BUILT AT the fact that we are offering half-off GulfQuest 100% admission and half-off GulfQuest memberships for all race participants,” Mike Beasley, MECHANICAL SIZE GulfQuest Director of Development said. “And, TRIM: 7.5” w x 4.8”hwe are extending that offer through Sunday, which is Father’s Day, so it could end up being a great family weekend!” COLOR Sponsored by Wind Creek Hospitality, all 4C proceeds from Race to the River will benefit LINE SCREENGulfQuest, a not-for-profit, 501c3 and the Magazine world’s first maritime museum dedicated to the Gulf of Mexico’s rich historical, cultural and QUESTIONS CALL economic significance. To register for Race Michelle Wise to the River, visit www.gulfquest.org. Race Wise Design Inc. applications are also available at McCoy Outdoor, 251.660.7751 Run-N-Tri or Fleet Feet in Mobile, Running Wild in Fairhope, and at GulfQuest. For more information, email mbeasley@gulfquest.org, or call 251-202-6306. 9

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Vaccine Recommendations for Traveling Summer is here! While some children depart for adventures at camps, others will stay busy with activities locally, and some families will look forward to traveling- across state lines, or even to other countries. For those traveling internationally, I know there’s much planning and preparation to be done. One factor that should not be an afterthought, however, are the vaccination requirements and recommendations for your destination. These may vary from country to country. There are obviously too many specific requirements in each country, and even for different regions in each country, to review here. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a website where general vaccination requirements for each country are easily accessible, and the Health Department provides a hotline (1-800-469-4599) for questions about international travel. You may also make an appointment to get vaccinations with the Health Department. Of course, I would recommend speaking with your pediatrician first; many times they will have the information you need to know before traveling. Your pediatrician will also be able to ensure your child is up to date on vaccines. Sometimes there are special vaccines that are only available at the Health Department, but your pediatrician may be able to provide the most common vaccines.

For enrollment in schools and for travel to other states, European countries and Canada, there are typically no additional vaccines other than what your pediatrician already gives. This is a series of vaccines in a specific order to prevent infections from Hepatitis B, Hepatitis A, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Haemophilus Influenzae type B (Hib), Pneumococcal, Rotavirus, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Varicella, Neisseria Meningitidis, and Influenza (annually). Other vaccines that may be required in certain countries in Africa or South America or even parts of Asia and Europe may be available at the Health Department. Examples include yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, and typhoid fever vaccines. Some vaccines need to be given in series, so start looking into health precautions months in advance of your travel date. Some countries will require medications to protect against malaria while you are visiting. If there is an epidemic, a change in the order of a vaccine may be recommended. For example, the MMR contains protection against the measles. This vaccine is usually given around one year old and again at four years of age. However, during the measles outbreak in California in 2014, infants were given an extra vaccine at 6 months-11 months of age for earlier protection. Currently, children traveling to the area do not need this extra vaccine, but it is helpful to ask your pediatrician before traveling if you have any

questions or if any recommendations have changed. You can visit www.cdc.gov website and browse under “traveler’s health” to look up various health information for any country and to also read about special precautions and updates. For example, information on the Zika virus and Ebola are currently on the website. It also contains alerts on which areas are too risky to visit currently and others that require only more precautions. It is impossible to go into all the details of what you may need for any specific destination, but I do want you to stay up to date with vaccinations required for our area (even as adults), and to research individually and discuss with your physician any additional medications, vaccines, or precautions you may need to consider as part of your travel preparation this summer. This will ensure a more care-free, relaxing time once you reach your vacation spot! Travel safely, and have fun!

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Jennifer Adair, M.D., was born and raised in Mobile. She graduated from Davidson High School in 2002 and received her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at The University of Alabama in 2006. She completed her medical training at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine, and pediatric residency at the University of Nevada College of Medicine – Las Vegas and the University of South Alabama. 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 dogs, Fitz and Barkley.

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Autauga County Schools

St. Luke’s BioMed Students Complete Capstone Presentations

The St. Luke's BioMed III students recently completed their annual Capstone Presentations. Each student spends three years in the program which culminates in one year of intense research and job shadowing in a specific field of interest, a 25 page research paper on that field and a presentation on a very specific topic within that field. Approximately 250 peers, parents and healthcare professionals attended this year’s event. The program is the area's only college prep medical exploration curriculum and is designed to augment the experience of those students interested in pursuing a career in Medical/Health/Science fields. This year's class members and their topics were: Lindsey Templin: Equine Veterinary Medicine- Colic Surgery, Cameron McPhail: Infectious Disease-Neglected Tropical Diseases, Hayden McConnell: Psychology-Technology Phenomena and the Brain, Martha Ellen Phillips: Occupational Therapy-Sensory Integration, Instructor Diane McCleery, Breanna Carney: Pediatric Dentistry-Open Bite Dentition, Madison Wright: Developmental Psychology-Visual Processing Disorders, Emily Weaver: Orthopedics, Living with Scoliosis, Olivia Pickett: Emergency Medicine-Air Ambulance Transport, Steven Small: Dentistry-Crowns and Veneers and Christian KennedyMilligan: Oncology-Lymphomas.

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MGM Visits Ingalls Shipbuilding

On Friday, April 22, a group of students from MGM visited the Ingalls Shipbuilding facility in Pascagoula, MS. In order to become more college and career ready, students learned about career, apprenticeship, and even academic opportunities available at Ingalls. In addition, students were taken on a guided windshield tour of the facility in order to see first-hand what careers in the shipbuilding industry look like. Thank you to Ingalls Shipbuilding for providing this real-world opportunity to MGM students. Pictured: MGM horticulture teacher Mr. John Halliday stands on the steps of the Ingalls office building with MGM students.

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Mary B. Austin Geography Bee

The annual Mary B. Austin Geography Bee was held on April 26. It was organized by former Austin teacher, Margaret Martin. Fourth and fifth grade students that participated felt like it was a never-ending event. It was tough, but Mary Blake Pritchard emerged as the first place winner! Second place finisher was Savannah Day and third place was Jack Naylor.

Sea Cadets Prepare For Trainings

The U. S. Naval Sea Cadets have been preparing hard this month for summer trainings. They started drill at the USCG Aviation Training Center with Physical Readiness Testing (PRTs). PRTs consist of sit-ups, push-ups, a mile run, sit and reach, and a shuttle run. Cadets have to complete each activity in a time that is compatible to their age. After PRTs the cadets were transported to the Hearin Chandler YMCA on Downtowner BLVD for a lock-in. While at the YMCA cadets engaged in swim qualifications, which is also required for summer trainings. Many cadets qualified for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class swimmers. Outside of drill, several cadets continued their preparations by earning their dive certificates as well as completing additional PRTs. Bravo Zulu to the cadets for a job well done. Sea Cadets is a program designed for young men and women between the ages of 10 and the completion of high school. The program has a positive influence on these young people, teaching them the importance of patriotism, courage, self-reliance, leadership skills, teamwork, accountability, and military knowledge. Once the cadet has completed the program, they are under no obligation to enter any of the armed forces. However, if they choose to enlist they are normally enlisted at a higher pay grade. The program has an open enrollment – meaning you can join at any time during the year. The Sea Cadets typically drill once a month at the Aviation Training Center located in Mobile. If you would like more information you can visit the website at www.seacadets.org or email at angela.graham@hotmail.com. 11

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Autauga County Schools

Earth Day at Mary B. Austin

Mary. B. Austin's first graders love project based learning! They did many things to celebrate Earth Day. They reused old t-shirts and decorated them with a planet Earth as well as created streamers out of household products. Each student created a product made out of discarded items; for example, old cds were transformed into decorative fish and spinning tops; an old crutch, wheel and shoe box was used to create a rolling doll suitcase, and flip-flops were made out of magazines and rope. There were too many innovative designs to name them all. The culminating Earth Day program was held on Friday, April 22, to bring this project to a close. However, these first graders know that "Everyday is Earth Day!"

Davidson HS Robotics Team Wins Competition in D.C.

Davidson High School's RobotEx team went to Washington, D.C., recently to participate in the 2016 White House Science Fair. Team members demonstrated their robot's abilities, conducted interviews with CBS and other outlets and met President Barack Obama, Bill Nye the Science Guy, Adam Savage of MythBusters and Hadi Partovi, founder of Code.org. The Davidson team won the Jubilee BEST robotics competition for the sixth straight year in October and placed second in the South’s BEST regional robotics competition in December. Pictured are from left, RobotEx team members Nolan Lenard, Rupa Palanki and Jacob Bosarge with their robot, Walter.

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Citronelle Honor Society Beautifies McDavid-Jones

To celebrate Earth Day students with Citronelle Honor Society came to McDavid-Jones Elementary School and helped with campus beautification! They trimmed bushes, pulled weeds, picked up trash and planted flowers! Ms. Lisa D. Byrd, Math Dept. Chair/NHS Advisor is their school sponsor she does a great job with these students. Thanks so much for all your help. You are an awesome group of students. Also, thanks to McDavid-Jones Booster Club for treating the students to ice cream and Pizza. Back Row: Colton Hickman, Brandon Byrd, Katlyn George, Sydney Lee, Kortnee Kelly. Front Row: Hunter Sullivan, Erin Jones, Kelsey Wainwright, Zac Landrum, Katlyn Nelson.

Motivating Students at Hollinger’s Island

At Hollinger’s Island Elementary they know it’s okay to be a nerd! Media Specialist Lisa Overstreet and 5th grade teacher Shannon Weaver leave motivational sayings for the students who are taking the ACT ASPIRE test each day! Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

Harlem Quartet Performs for E.R. Dickson Elementary Students

Since its public debut in 2006 at Carnegie Hall, the New Yorkbased ensemble has performed throughout the U.S. as well as in France, the U.K., Belgium, Panama, Canada, and in South Africa, where under the auspices of the U.S. State Department they spent two weeks on tour performing concerts and participating in outreach activities. The Quartet completed the Professional String Quartet Residency Program at New England Conservatory in 2013, and participated in NEC’s string quartet exchange program in Paris, working extensively with violinist Günter Pichler. 12

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St. Paul’s Boys and Girls Outdoor Track Wins 5A State Championship

The St. Paul’s girls and boys track and field teams both won their respective state team championships this school year. The girls’ victory margin was 121-90 over defending 5A champion Beauregard, and the boys squeezed out a 65-62 win over Ramsey High School to complete the sweep. Outstanding performances were too numerous to mention, but individual state champions from St. Paul’s included Isabel Valenzuela in the 800M, 1600M and 3200M, Charlotte (Boo) Krause in the high jump and triple jump, Callie Radcliff in the pole vault and the girls’ 4X800M relay composed of Natalie Garcia, Mary Howard Singleton, Sydney Jane Hendryx and Isabel Valenzuela. The boys’ long state champion was Zackery Carmichael in the 110M high hurdles. The support the team received from the faculty and parents was superb and it is indeed great to be a Saint!

MGM Takes 1st Place at MCPSS Film Festival

At the 2nd annual MCPSS Film Festival held on Friday, April 29, at Baker’s auditorium, MGM walked away with two 1st place trophies. First, Ms. Doreen Caswell’s Film 2 class, a part of MGM Viking Productions, won in the high school music video category with their interpretation of Train’s “Angel in Blue Jeans.” This video illustrates both the hardships and the rewards of young love. In addition, Mrs. Christina Skelton won in the teacher-created documentary category for her video “Story of a World War II POW.” In this video, Mr. Seymour Lichtenfeld details his capture and imprisonment by the Germans as he served in the United States Army. Congratulations to all who entered. Pictured in left photo: back row – Marissa McMillan, Hannah King, Kaylynn Daniel, Noah Dryton. Front row – Emily Skinner, Chelsea Oliveras, Megan Skinner, Hailey Peacock, Jarna Bonner, Noah Goleman. Pictured in right photo: Christina Skelton, Seymour Lichtenfeld.

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St. Luke’s Episcopal School presents a K2-12 college preparatory community developing young men and women of honor, faith and responsibility with character and intellect to thrive in college and life. St. Luke’s accepts qualified applicants without regard to gender, race, religion, national or ethnic origin.

Middle Upper School Early Childhood and Lowerand School www.stlukesmobile.com 1400 S. University Blvd.251-666-2991 3975 Japonica Lane

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Cottage Hill Christian Academy Performs Disney “Peter Pan Jr.”

The CHCA 2016 Disney “Peter Pan Jr.” Broadway Production Dinner Theatre opened at Cottage Hill Baptist Church. Disney “Peter Pan Jr.”, which is based on a play by J.M. Barrie and the 1953 classic Disney film fantasy, was performed with excitement, enthusiasm, and excellence. The score included arrangements of the classic Disney songs like “Following the Leader”, “The Second Star to the Right”, “You can Fly” and “Yo Ho, A Pirate’s Life for Me”. From the opening scene in the Darling nursery to the closing bows, the cast of over 75 CHCA students captivated the audience with music and drama that drew you into the boisterous fantasy of the Darlings and Neverland. Peter, Wendy, John, Michael, Hook, Tinker Bell and the entire cast engaged the audience in scene after scene. Like the “Lost Boys” in the play, the audience became part of the adventure and Neverland family. "Peter Pan Jr." was perform by members of the CHCA Fine Arts Department under the direction of Susan Sanders.

St. Luke's Coastal Kids Quiz Team Wins The St. Luke's Coastal Kids Quiz Team went into three sudden death rounds to defeat Bayside and win the championship. Each member of the team received a $600 scholarship and the school received a $500 contribution. The Coastal Kids Quiz is an annual competition organized by the Alabama Coastal Foundation for fifth grade students in Mobile and Baldwin Counties. Twelve school teams compete in a round robin style tournament with the top scoring teams competing in a Championship Round to determine first and second place scholarship winners. Pictured are team members Lydia Burnham, Tristan Johnson, Maggie McDonough, Stone Smith, Claire Hamilton and Coach Michelle Hamilton.

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

Montessori Founder Honored During International Festival

On May 6th Weinacker’s Montessori School honored their school’s founder, Mrs. Marcia Weinacker during the school’s 39th annual International Festival. Mrs. Weinacker’s first great love of children was evidenced by the fact that she had nine of her own. It is said that she first became involved with the Montessori Method of teaching as a means to give her own children a better foundation for learning. So, after receiving her BS and MA in Early Childhood Education, she pursued training in the Montessori Method. Off to England she went to receive her training at the St. Nicholas Montessori School where she received certification in the Infant/Toddler, Pre-School and Elementary levels. In 1969 she opened the doors to her first Montessori school, Weinacker’s Montessori Mini School on Old Shell Road. In 1971 Mrs. Weinacker moved the first location here to Hillcrest where it remains. Mrs. Weinacker was a woman of MANY accomplishments including: Coach and player – Weinacker Southern Rebels women’s basketball team who won the Mobile City Women’s Basketball title 6 out of 7 years and the Alabama State Title in 1958. The first boy’s basketball coach at St. Mary’s for 6 years in the 1960s and early 1970’s. Her teams won multiple titles and caused several new rules to be instituted in the CYO league. Champion tennis player – playing in both national and international tournaments. She played at the U.S. Open at Forrest Hills and played on the European Women’s Tour. She received Alabama State Tennis Singles Titles 16 years. The last being in 2000 when she was 72 years old. In 2008 she was inducted into the Alabama Tennis Hall of Fame. She was a certified tennis instructor and taught children citywide how to play, even sometimes buying them racquets. Owner and manager of Weinacker’s Shopping Center Member of Tri-Delta Sorority, Debutante in the Mobile Carnival Association in 1950 leading the KOR Ball that year, member of MOM’s parade for 5 decades leading the 50th anniversary parade in 1999, elected to the University of Alabama’s Denny Society in 2003. Mrs. Weinacker was called home last August 26th and will be sadly missed by everyone whose life she touched. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

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St. Mary Parish Honors St. Mary Catholic Class of 2012

St. Mary Parish honored the graduates of the St. Mary Catholic School Class of 2012 and St. Mary Parishioners who are now the high school graduates of 2016. Each student was invited to stand up and announce their post-graduation plans. It was truly a bittersweet reunion as this group will be spread out all over the country at various colleges and universities. Congratulations to this awesome group of rising stars!

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St. Dominic Students Participate in State Technology Competition

St. Dominic Catholic School students recently participated in the ACTE state technology competition. The video production team of (left to right) Cora Johnson, Miriam Foster, Ella Wilson, Camryn Cate, Annabelle Hosemann, and Aubrey Case, placed first with their presentation of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Be a Bestie, Not a Bullyâ&#x20AC;?. Congratulating the team is Mrs. Kathleen Thompson, Technology Coordinator at St. Dominic Catholic School.

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Autauga County Schools UMS-Wright Latin Scores

The National Latin Exam, sponsored by the American Classical League and the National Junior Classical League, is a comprehensive exam that focuses on a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to read and comprehend Latin as outlined in the ACLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Standards for Classical Languages. The exam consists of questions on grammar, comprehension, mythology, derivatives, literature, Roman life, history, geography, oral Latin, and Latin in use in the modern world. We are thrilled to announce the following awards on the National Latin Exam! Latin I: Linus Standley - Gold, Emma Samson - Gold, and Lauren Graham - Silver. Latin II: Lydia Fantoni - Gold, Sarah Crawford - Gold, and Anne Harvey (not pictured) - Silver. Latin III: Danner Butler - Gold, Ellen Williams - Gold, Samuel McPhillips - Gold, Katherine Kuhn - Silver, Molly Sullivan - Silver, and Will Maitre - Silver.

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Super Heroes at St. Pius X

St. Pius X celebrated "Spirit Week" the week of May 2 to get ready for Big Field Day on Friday, May 6. As part of the week-long festivities, Super Hero Day was held on Tuesday, May 4. Pictured are some 8th grade Super Heroes at lunch.

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North Mobile Christian Raises $15,000 and Turns Headmaster Into Ice Cream Sundae

Students at North Mobile Christian School celebrated surpassing their $10,000 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fundrays Savings Bookâ&#x20AC;? fundraising goal at an assembly on March 22. Due to the overwhelming success of the fundraiser (1,008 total books sold), students who sold five or more coupon books made Headmaster, Christopher Reed, into a human ice cream sundae. Overall top sellers were Mark (Chi) Harris, 1st place; James Brady, 2nd place; and Madison Johnson, 3rd place. The top three classes were Mrs. Pat Neese (1st ), Mrs. Allison Nelson (2nd ), and Mrs. Farra Mitchell (3rd ). The winning students and teachers covered Mr. Reed with ice cream, cookies, marshmallows and syrup. Mrs. Pat Neese concluded the assembly by topping a now-freezing Mr. Reed with a jar of cherries! The fundraiser allowed for the purchase of classroom technology.

Covenant Christian Middle School Track

The Covenant Christian middle school girls' track team finished their season with a 2nd place finish at The Battle of the Bay Middle School/JV meet held at Bayside Academy. Team members pictured are Faith Havard, Katherine Rush, Jenna Harvey, Haley Russ, and Brittney Sharpe.

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McGill-Toolen Catholic School’s Azalea Trail Maids

McGill-Toolen’s new Azalea Trail Maids will make their McT debut at graduation! Congratulations to the new maids: Sara Daoust (blue), Courtney Calagaz (yellow), Kendall Brown (purple), and Mallie Tew (green).

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Welcomes Coach Peebles

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David Peebles has been hired to lead the Cottage Hill Christian Academy football program. Coach Peebles brings much experience to CHCA having coached at both the high school and college level. A former assistant at the University of South Alabama, he currently serves as the wide receivers and special teams coach at Baldwin County High School. He also coached two years at McGill-Toolen and was a member of Mark Freeman’s state championship staff at Spanish Fort. "He is hungry and passionate to be our head coach. As much as we like his coaching resume, that comes a distant second to his love for the Lord and his character. He is a man who has an unashamed faith and he will be able to pour into our kids spiritually as well as prepare them to be Godly men long after they leave The Hill” according to Chris Brazell, Director of Athletics at CHCA. Coach Peebles is hard at work assembling his coaching staff, meeting the players, and preparing for Spring Training. At the end of spring practice he plans to have a "Family Night" to meet and greet the Warrior Nation.

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Corpus Christi Catholic School Students Keep the Faith

Established in 2013, the “Keep the Faith” award, presented in honor of Andre Colletti, is given to two 8th grade students at Corpus Christi Catholic School who demonstrate the qualities exemplified by Andre’s life. The recipients of the award have a strong faith in God, are leaders among their peers and willingly provide service to others in their community. This year’s winners are Hannah Pitts and Luke Vailes. They are pictured with Jason and Lorie Colletti.

Teacher of the Year at McDavid-Jones

On Wednesday, March 9th, Arkema celebrated Mrs. Jill Lloyd being named the "Teacher of the Year" for McDavid-Jones Elementary. They took her and her husband to lunch at Briquettes Steakhouse and presented Mrs. Lloyd with a gift and flowers. During awards on March 29th the school recognized Mrs. Lloyd by presenting her a plaque. Mrs. Lloyd earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of South Alabama. She is highly qualified in both general and special education from birth to 8 years. She began her teaching career at Glendale Elementary School in Prichard, AL in 2002. She taught special education students there for 5 years. Then, in 2007 she transferred to McDavid Jones Elementary and began teaching Special Education Preschool. She is currently in her 9th year. She wanted to become a teacher because she felt that every person, no matter what their intellectual capability deserved a quality education. She knew she always wanted to be a teacher, but when she visited a special education classroom in high school, she fell in love with special education. When she is not teaching, she enjoys spending time with my husband, twelve year old daughter and ten year old son. She also dedicates her time to her church, Whatley Holy Church of God, where she is the song leader and treasurer.

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McGill-Toolen Catholic Boys Tennis 7A State Runner-up

The McT boys’ tennis team brings home its 5th trophy of the year! With championships in boys’ basketball and football and runner-up in girls’ basketball, volleyball and boys’ tennis, it has been an incredible year for McGill-Toolen athletics!

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Little Flower Catholic Recycles

The fourth grade class at Little Flower Catholic School learned about the importance of recycling when Ms. Phyllis Wingard (right), Outreach Coordinator at Keep Mobile Beautiful, visited the school. Recycling of paper, plastic, glass, plastic bags, and metal were among the topics addressed. Little Flower Catholic School has a large recycling area that accepts most recyclables from students and parishioners, so most of the students were familiar with the basics of recycling. Bella Howell, Madison Jackson, Arianna Watson, Jacob Duckworth, and Margaret Abernathy helped display recyclable items, and Alby Lopuhovsky displayed a suggested reusable shopping bag from Keep Mobile Beautiful.

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5th Grade Archer Competes in Montgomery

Mose Piper, a 5th grader at Old Shell Road School of Creative and Performing Arts, placed 12th out of the 229 elementary archers at the Alabama State Archery Tournament in Montgomery, with a score of 267. Mose has competed in several archery tournaments for the 2015-2016 school year and placed 1st at local tournaments in Foley and Saraland. Mose also placed 3rd at the St. Luke’s Friendly Fire Competition with his fellow teammate, Hardy Miller. Mose shot a 277 out of 300 at the Alma Bryant Regional Tournament, which in turn placed him 1st for his region and qualified him for the Alabama State Tournament. His regional score was the top score for all elementary boys in the state of Alabama. Mose not only excels in archery, but he maintains straight A’s which earned him the status of Academic Archer. He was also recently inducted into the National Elementary School Honor Society. Mose is a phenomenal student who demonstrates great sportsmanship and is a leader for his fellow archers and classmates.

SDCS Raises Money for St. Jude

St. Dominic Catholic School students recently participated in a Trike-A-Thon, raising funds for St. Jude’s Hospital. Riding their bicycles for over an hour these students were able to raise over $1,800 for the hospital. Here John Michael Laurence prepares to take another lap around the track.

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Beautiful Day for St. Mary Parish First Communion

St. Mary Parish First Communicants had a beautiful day for one of the most special days of the year at St. Mary Parish. St. Mary gives thanks to all of the teachers from St. Mary Catholic School and from St. Mary's CCD Program, the priests and deacons, the school principal, and parents for the preparation and guidance this year for all 62 beautiful first communicants! A reception planned by the third grade parents and volunteers followed the Mass.

Little Flower Field Day

How many students can have fun on the climbing bars? A break in the Field Day action at Little Flower Catholic School was just the right time to gather friends on the climbing bars. The braver students risked climbing to the top and balanced with a little help from their friends. Students wore t-shirts with their designated team color for the day of Field Day games.

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Bright Beginnings Art Expo 2016

The theme of BBA’s 2nd annual art show was “under the sea” and “on the ground.” Students displayed tremendous talent under the expertise of Cathy McGaughy with their renditions of George Rodriguez’s “Blue Dog,” Laurel Burch’s “Cats,” and Paul Klee’s “Shore City.” Landscape paintings of sailing the beautiful sea completed by each student were amongst the featured exhibits. Other extraordinary scenes included dolphins, sharks, sea snails, jellyfish, sea turtles, and starfish, which revealed some incredible newly acquired techniques. Students paid tribute to America’s red, white, and blue with impressive paintings of Lady Liberty and independent sketches of the White House. Self portraits were completed by each student and marveled by onlookers. The event was amazing and showcased the talent of these up and coming artists.

Allentown Elementary School April GATOR Kids

Kindergarten – 2nd Grade Front Row-Brookelyn Orr, Mya Slaten, Bailey Pullen, James Dunnam, Jax Hearndon. Middle Row-Addison Thomas, Karsen Voloshik, Eli Pesnell, Kyla Barnett, Julia Barnett, Ashlianne Welch, Terriah Rogers, Adyson Overstreet. Back Row-Hannah Browning, Regan Kelley, Dareon Mason, Ryan Taylor, Kaylie Nguyen, Kennon Lee.

3rd – 5th Grade Front RowMakalah Wilharms, Maddie Knotts, Layden Chambless, Anna Horton, Nicky Lawson, Mia Gates. Middle RowZeke Turberville, Madelyn McIlwain, Alaina Mitchell, Tristen Johnson, Maddison Crabtree, Kaylei Touchstone. Back Row-Thomas Burnham, Annie Patterson, Trenton Sullivan, Paige Warden, Aly Mayhall, Christian Herndon. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

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UMS-Wright Middle School Drama Club Presents Disney’s “Aladdin, Jr.”

The UMS-Wright Middle School Drama Club performed Disney’s “Aladdin, Jr.” in April. The cast, crew, administration, actors, and actresses did a fantastic job! We are so proud of this talented group of students, and cannot wait to see what they perform next! Middle School Drama Club: Max Buchman, Will Cunningham, Mary Webster Burke, Clayton Davidson, Abby Fowler, Kara Beth Greene, Reagan Jokerst, Ryann Jokerst, Jackie Kunn, Grace Lyons, Aynsley McCain, Chaney Scott McCorquodale, Barclay McGinley, Madison McGinley, Cate Moore, Ellie Moore, Gabi Pouyadou, Rachel Reeves, Brett Robertson, Isabella Rocconi, Hayden Salter, Sofia Swann, Carolina Grace Taylor, Kate Wallace, Mya Wesley, Isabella Williams, and Keyshawn Woodyard.

St. Luke Spring Festival

St. Luke's celebrated its 51st annual Spring Festival recently! K2-8th graders are divided into Red and Black teams and elect 8th grade team captains. The teams compete in grade level competitions of obstacle relays, relay races, egg toss, sack races, stilt races, dodge ball and of course the event everyone looks forward to the most: mud pit tug of war! The day isn't over until the tug of war events are complete and everyone on the losing tug of war team has been pulled through the mud pit! This year's Spring Festival held a few surprises including an alumni Maypole and a faculty/staff vs. 8th grade tug of war. At the end of the day, the RED team won. Red Team Captains were John Warner Phillips, Kristi Kadel, Becca Clark and Jaquinton Shaw and Black Team Captains were Elizabeth Roebuck, Jessie Stirling, Dylan Hale and Stefon Ward.

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Lunch and a Limo at St. Pius X

John, Paul and Rachel Dekle were the lucky recipients of Lunch and a limo with the Pastor and Principal. The item was purchased by their parents at the St. Pius X A Night to Remember Live and Silent Auction. The Dekles and two of their friends were treated to a stretch limo ride to the Explorium IMAX Theater, lunch and ice cream.

Baker HS Student Named Alabama’s Youth of the Year

Baker High student Kelsey Perine has been named Alabama's Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Club. Perine and a dozen other young people from around the state competed for the honor through public speaking, essays, academic achievement, and their example of the positive impact the Boys & Girls Club can have on young people's lives. Perine, who received the honor during a ceremony in Montgomery, told the Montgomery Advertiser that she wanted to inspire young people that “they should not be afraid of sharing their ideas and … that instead of doing bad things on social media, that they can use it in a positive light, and that they can spread their ideas and spread their opinions on social media and not be afraid of the outcome.”

Davidson Students Take Part in National E-Week Events

The National Engineers Week (E-Week) found a local group of eager participants in the EPIC program students at Davidson High School last week. Davidson chose Aerospace Engineering as their E-Week theme, kicking off with an inspirational talk by Captain Donnie Cochran, the first African-American Commander and Flight Leader of the Blue Angels. “The arrival of Airbus to Mobile sparked our theme selection,” said Amy Haskins, Academy Specialist for Davidson. “Our students were praised at their field trips as being highly engaged and well-behaved. I couldn’t be more proud of our EPIC Program.” The week included a trip to the University of South Alabama, where students participated in a simulated labor and delivery. The E-Week Leaders also visited the Pensacola Naval Museum’s Flight Academy to learn about the forces related to flight. E-Week events culminated in Friday’s Field Day, where teams worked together to test and create the best wing design for a glider. The goal of EPIC is to offer students the opportunity to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Sponsors for Davidson’s E-Week included the USA School of Computing, who sponsored the t-shirts, and Mars Hill Café for catering lunches on Thursday and Friday. Founded in 1951, E-Week is dedicated to ensuring a diverse and well-educated future engineering workforce by increasing understanding about engineering and technology careers. Today, E-Week reaches thousands of schools, businesses, and community groups across the U.S.

Baker HS Students Volunteer at Dodge Elementary Career Carnival

HS(2) Academy students assisted with the Dodge Elementary Career Carnival. Health Science Patient Care Tech students introduced medical equipment to students and allowed them to use some of the equipment. The PCT students also discussed various medical careers with the elementary students. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

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Old Shell Road School Student Named Recipient of It Starts with Me Award

Jordan Hobbs, a fifth-grader at Old Shell Road School of Creative and Performing Arts, is an A honor roll student, Student Council Treasurer, and a member of the National Honor Society. She is also an accomplished fashion designer. At the age of 10, Jordan has her very own fashion line called J. Alise Designs, which received an award at “Coastal Kids Fashion Week”. Her fashions have been featured in Exalté and Mobile Bay Parents. She is also a recipient of the “It Starts With Me” award featured in The Wire.

MCPSS Film Festival

Students from St. Elmo Elementary, Dunbar Magnet School and Baker High School and teachers from Taylor-White Elementary won Best of Show awards at the second annual MCPSS Film Festival. More than 100 entries were submitted and winners were selected in categories of: commercial, comedy, drama, news, documentary, how-to and music. Winners received video and editing technology to use in class. All entries can be viewed on mcpss.TV.

McDavid-Jones Student Named Finalist in It Starts with Me

Garrett Sullivan, has been selected to represent McDavid-Jones as a finalist for MCPSS annual It Starts With Me awards. He was chosen because he is a leader in our school and community and exemplifies the “It Starts With Us” slogan. Garrett was recognized on May 5th at Murphy High School auditorium in Mobile. Garrett is the son of Roger and Paula Sullivan of Citronelle.

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Corpus Christi Catholic School’s Teacher of the Year

Each year, Corpus Christi Catholic School, recognizes excellence in teaching by selecting a “Teacher of the Year.” This year’s winner is Mrs. Terry Mueller. She has been a first grade teacher at Corpus Christi since 2001. Mrs. Mueller is pictured with her family.

MCPSS Students Honored with It Starts with Me Awards

Four Mobile County Public Schools students have been honored with It Starts With Me awards, recognizing them and their achievements as examples of the system motto: It Starts With Us. Virginia Winsor of Mary B. Austin, Jordan Hobbs of Old Shell Road School of Creative and Performing Arts, Conner Shepard of Lott Middle and Jonathan Kendall of Citronelle High (pictured, from left) were honored at MCPSS’ It Starts With Us gala on May 5 at the newly reopened Murphy High School Auditorium. Winsor, a fifth-grader, led a campaign to raise $8,000 to build the Mary B. Austin water well in Zambia. Hobbs, also a fifthgrader, has her very own fashion line, called J. Alise Designs, which received an award at Coastal Kids Fashion Week. Shepard, an eighth-grader, helped organize Lott’s Relay for Life initiative and Stuff the Bus campaign, which collected toys for needy children at Christmas. Kendall, a senior, is a Cadet Major in JROTC, works with younger children at Camp Whispering Pines and has lived with his parents as missionaries in Haiti.

Satsuma High School 2016 Prom King and Queen

Congratulations to Satsuma High School seniors, Keith Griffith and Morgan Walley for being named the 2016 Prom King and Queen. Keith, a spirited young man born with down-syndrome, has taught the students at Satsuma High School a lesson that can’t necessarily be learned in Honors or AP classrooms. Keith’s student involvement and every day positive attitude has showed the students to see others beyond their outward appearance, and taught them a lesson of love and acceptance. Satsuma High School Special Education teacher, Kendal Whitten stated, “You can spread ‘awareness’ all day long, but unless people demonstrate ‘acceptance’ the awareness really is pointless.”

St. Paul’s Art Students Win at State Level – AISA Art Contest

After placing 1st or 2nd in our district, we sent 18 pieces to compete at the state Level in the Alabama Independent School Association Art Contest. Here are the final results! Grades 7-9: Alex Rosenthal • 1st place Water Based Painting, Kaylen Cornelius • 2nd place Printmaking, Cameron Carley • 3rd place Drawing With Color, Sarah Strickland • 2nd place Photography, Maddie Broughton • 1st place Collage/Mixed Media. Grades 10-12: Jake Richey • 2nd place Painting, Ashley Forwood • 1st place Water Based Painting, Caroline Dickerson • 1st place Printmaking, Sydney Williams • 1st place Sculpture, Caroline Myers • 2nd place Collage/Mixed Media, Honorable Mention – Porter Sanders. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

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St. Pius X Students Visit State Capitol

The St. Pius X fourth grade traveled to the Alabama state capitol on Friday, April 29. After visiting the historical sites around Montgomery they headed off to the zoo for some fun.

MCPSS Holds Driver Education Road-e-o

Citronelle High School took top honors in Mobile County Public Schools’ 12th Annual Driver Education Road-e-o, and CHS sophomore Logan Miller was the top individual driver. About two dozen MCPSS driver education students competed. Holly LaForce of Alma Bryant finished second in the competition and Murphy’s Thomas Chandler was third. Two students also staged a demonstration on texting while driving. Davidson High sophomore Gradie Miller, who drove during the demonstration, hit five cones on the slalom course while texting, after hitting no cones during the competition without a phone in her hand. “It shows that you really shouldn’t text while driving,” she said. “You’re trying to focus on a different conversation and what’s going on in your phone rather than what you’re doing while you’re driving.” Pictured are, from left: Chandler, LaForce, Miller and Citronelle driver education instructor Jeff Pippin.

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Top Toys for Tub Time!

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

It seems like a simple enough task to find water-worthy toys for the tub. When you rule out the ones that channel water out of the tub and onto the floor, toys that collect water inside that can’t drain out, and those with metals bits that rust out over time, you might come up short in the bath fun department. But there are always some well-designed playthings that float to the top of the list. The following toys for the tub are recommended as water-friendly, parent-pleasing and fast favorites for kids in the bath!

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Green Toys Seacopter

Boon Water Pipes (Boon)

A big part of water’s enchantment in the tub is the way it moves. Waves, bubbles, and every other kind of hydrodynamic is a siren’s call to kids. Boon Water Pipes are colorful transparent pipes that suction onto bathtub walls creating channels for water to travel along. Each pipe features a distinct action or shape that affects the water passing through it. The pipes can be arranged singly or grouped together in a series so that water poured from the top travels through each consecutive pipe on its way back to the bath. Ready to rearrange for repeated water shows, Boon’s Water Pipes bring the dynamic of moving water to the fore with crystal clarity.

(Green Toys)

Aviation pretend-play moves easily to the water with Green Toys Seacopter. Ready to rule the skies and ride the waves, the Seacopter features top and tail rotors that move manually, pontoons that fill and spill to control buoyancy, and a small bear pilot figure for the open cockpit. Perfect for floating and flying, the Seacopter is made in the U.S.A. from recycled milk jugs and is dishwasher-safe for occasional cleaning. Amphibious fun both in and out of the tub, the Green Toys Seacopter is a versatile and worry-free addition to the bath toy box.

Floating Octopus Hoopla

Moby Waterfall Bath Rinser

With plenty of arms to catch all the action, the Floating Octopus Hoopla from Nuby is a fun and colorful addition to the tub toy line up. Just the right size for the littlest hands, the Floating Octopus offers up its purple tentacles, ready to hook the three rings included in the set. While it mimics a ring toss game, the rings are not really large enough for children to have much success actually tossing them. Rather it works much better as a tool to support hand-eye coordination in toddlers as they learn to steady the Octopus and work the rings onto its limbs. A cheerful friend to have in the tub, the Floating Octopus Hoopla makes a big splash with the youngest bathers!

Rinsing a child’s head in the tub is rarely an easy task. Finding a method and means that get the job done quickly and efficiently is the grail of shampoo-weary parents. Enter the Moby Waterfall Bath Rinser. Unlike regular pitchers and buckets which scoop up water, but pour unevenly and imprecisely, the Moby is designed with a child’s limits in mind. The wide mouth and interior channels moderate and direct the flow of water evenly and across the whole head so the rinse is complete in just 1-2 pours. The soft rubber lip of the rinser molds to the contour of a child’s head keeping water away from their face. After the rinsing is over, Moby (in the shape of its namesake whale) becomes a fun tub toy for the rest of bath time!

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Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

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Q. I know when it comes to investing you like mutual funds and paid-for real estate. What do you think about using condominiums as investment properties instead of single-family homes? A. I don’t really have a problem with condos as paid-for investments. I own a couple of them myself. When it comes to making this kind of investment for the first time, however, I would advise that you keep a few things in mind. Based on equal price and equal neighborhood, the average single-family home will probably increase more in value over the years. Now, a nice, well-placed condo will obviously go up in value faster than a traditional house in a lesser neighborhood. So speaking in an overall sense, they’re not bad investments if you do your homework. You have to think about what you’re getting into and also take into consideration a number of variables. What are the HOA dues or condo fees going to be? Is the condo association being managed well? That and the neighborhood are the two biggest concerns I have when buying a condo. A lot of condo associations are very poorly managed. And if they don’t provide proper maintenance or keep a certain percentage of the complex owner-occupied versus rental, the condo association or complex can lose the

ability to get normal permanent financing. If they can’t get FHA, VA or conventional financing, the values are going to drop like a rock — because you’ve only got cash buyers and investment buyers at that point. Research on these kinds of things doesn’t take an awful lot of work. Just call the management company, and the realtor who’s involved if it’s listed, and ask for the documentation. Most of the time this sort of stuff is public information, so it’s not hard to access. Some other questions you might ask are: What are the reserves for the roof? What are the reserves for paint and the parking lot? Are they collecting enough to pay their bills, and are they actually paying their bills?

Q. I’ve had a judgment filed against me for an old, unpaid medical bill. The original amount was $2,500, but now it has increased to $3,200. Can I negotiate this with the lawyer? I’ve asked him for a detailed statement of the account several times, but all I’ve gotten is a payment booklet. A. When it comes to paying off bills or debt, you should always pay what’s owed if you have

the money. There’s a moral, as well as legal, responsibility involved. That being said, if you don’t have $3,200, offer him whatever you’ve got — $2,000 or the original $2,500 as a settlement. Make sure he understands that you’re not offering to pay the amount you have on the debt, but that it’s being offered as settlement in full if the debt is cleared. The reason you haven’t gotten what you’ve asked for so far is you may have been talking to some low-level staffer or paralegal. If you have been talking directly to the lawyer, then he’s probably running a small debt collections or debt lawsuit machine. That means you’re just one of dozens of widgets coming down the line. To you, this is very personal. But to him, you’re just another account. You might have to do something to get his attention and wake him up. If this is the case, he probably gets a piece of whatever he collects. So, if he gets a third of $2,000 or $2,500 it might make his house payment this month. You could also talk to the hospital administrator, too, and let them know you’ll bring a couple thousand down there today if they’ll accept it as payment in full. At this point, you’ve just got to do something to get off the conveyor belt!

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Keeping Family Cellphones Secure A cellphone is an investment. In addition to the device itself, every family cellphone includes crucial information—contacts and messages, passwords and personal data, photos and videos. Unfortunately, cellphones are also very vulnerable. They can be lost, stolen, hacked, dropped and infected with viruses. In a recent Verizon survey, over half of the respondents admitted losing or destroying at least one cellphone. A quarter had lost 2 or more phones, and 43% had sent the phone through the laundry. People in the Verizon survey were over 18, so it’s easy to imagine that the figures would be even higher for adolescents. Your family may not be able to avoid every mishap, but you can minimize some of the heartbreak by teaching good cellphone habits as soon as kids get their first phone. Use a password. A strong password will protect what’s on a phone if it gets stolen lost or “borrowed” by a mischievous friend. Help your child think up something memorable that isn’t based on readily available information such as birthday, street address, initials, etc. If kids object to entering a password every time they want to text, set the delay feature so the password kicks in when the phone hasn’t been used for a certain number of minutes. As a bonus, a password gives everyone in the family just a second to think, “Do I really need to check my phone right now?” Have a back-up plan. A phone is a data storage device, and data needs back-up. It doesn’t matter whether you store photos and contacts in the cloud or on your Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

own computer. Just be sure that back-up happens automatically. Consider the find feature. Most phones have a find-my-phone option, and it can certainly be helpful if you need to locate a phone—or for that matter a child who’s carrying the phone. Just remember that this feature depends on location tracking. If you can find the phone—or the child—so can other people who know the number. Even if tracking isn’t enabled, you can still erase the data on a stolen phone, something that becomes more urgent if the phone is used for financial transactions. Sometimes this feature has to be enabled in advance. To find out how, search for “erase data” and the type of phone you want to protect.

Download apps from trusted sites. Apps are part of what makes cellphones useful and fun. Apps can also introduce viruses and security problems. Establish a family policy about downloads. Young children should get permission before every download. Everyone should use reputable sites like Google Play and the App Store because they evaluate apps for safety and reliability before they make them available. Stay up-to-date. Hackers are constantly trying to exploit vulnerabilities in cellphones. Fortunately, reputable phone companies and app makers try to plug security leaks as they discover them. It’s a cat and mouse game, and you don’t want to be the mouse. The only way to have the benefit of updates is to download them. Use the settings on the phone to be sure all family phones get updates automatically. Install antivirus protection. Some antivirus protection is built into cellphones but parents may want to add an extra layer of protection. Apps like Lookout, Avast or TrustGo can scan a child’s phone for malicious programs and help you remove them safely. Be leery about links. Several years ago, a security firm found people were more likely to click on fraudulent links on their 30

phones. Maybe that’s because the tiny screen makes it harder to recognize junk messages. Or maybe it’s because cellphone users get in the habit of clicking quickly on social media. Teach kids how to recognize phone spam—unsolicited messages that promise goodies. And remind them that they should never enter personal information into a form that pops up on the phone—no matter how tempting the offer seems to be.

Don’t give other people access. Teach your child how to put a phone into guest mode. Deploy this feature if someone asks to borrow the phone. Then the guest won’t have access to messages, photos and other personal information.

Be suspicious of unknown callers. Young phone users should have a list of approved contacts. Consider blocking everyone else. Older teens should know about the one-ring scam in which international crooks make the phone ring just once. If your child calls back out of curiosity, you get charged hot-line fees. The best way to prevent such problems is to block international calls unless there is a reason to receive them. In addition to these technical tips, there are also some common sense ways to protect the family cellphones. A brightly colored case and a distinctive ring tone make it easier to find a missing phone. An inexpensive screen protector may keep a screen from shattering if a phone gets dropped—or thrown. A family charging station means that you’ll know where all phones are at least once a day. And a bowl of rice is a time-honored way to dry out a wet cellphone. (Better yet, save those little bags of dessicant so you can toss a few into a sandwich bag with a damp phone.) Finally, befriend the folks who sold you the phone. They know the ins and outs of security and other special features. Dropping in for the occasional tutorial is one of the best ways to assure that your family’s cellphones—and the people who use them— are as safe as they can be. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2016, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved

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Biking in Mobile

must generally follow pedestrian rules. There are a few exceptions to the standard in both scenarios; a savvy cyclist knows and follows the law.

Just Keeps Getting Better

We are moving out of National Bike Month (observed every May), and into another Gulf Coast summer, which gives us just another excuse to enjoy some outdoor time. Whether you have been riding for years, or are just looking for something different to do, a bike ride can be a great way to connect with your community and with your family. The Mobile area is a great place to enjoy cycling with family and friends – and the opportunities seem to explode as the days get longer.

The Many Wonderful Ways to Enjoy Bike Riding in Mobile

If you missed the annual Crepe Myrtle Trail ride, you haven’t missed all of the great biking opportunities that our area offers! Through the end of July you can enjoy a Saturday morning trek through downtown to the Market on the Square. A bicycle is also a great way to enjoy the monthly LoDa Art Walks, and to get to the Exploreum and other great downtown museums, as well as the Mobile Public Library’s Ben May Main Library. When there is heavy demand for a trip to a playground, many of the local parks, such as Medal of Honor Park and Langan Park, have some great paved paths where young riders can test their riding skills before enjoying the other great amenities offered. Local cycling events, like upcoming RideYellow in Bay Minette, offer ride routes of varying distances to include cyclists of all skill levels. If you are going “over the bay” for some family fun, don’t forget to load up the bikes. Many of the Baldwin County communities also offer some great biking experiences!

Ride Smarter

When you are enjoying your bike – either as alone time or family time – make safety a priority. Bicycles are often thought of as toys, but to enjoy them to their full potential, bicycles should be regarded as vehicles. So, after helping your family learn how to ride a bike, take the time to teach them how to drive one. Start early, in controlled settings, to expose your family to smarter cycling habits like the ones discussed below. 1. Wear a helmet – regardless of your age or whether you are riding in the street, a driveway or parking lot, or off-road. Alabama law mandates that all bicycle riders (and trailer or child seat passengers) under the age of 16 wear a helmet that is properly fitted and securely fastened. The helmet should meet the most current Consumer Product Safety Commission Standards. Introduce helmets inside the house when your child is still small enough to use riding toys. Wearing one will become an easy non-negotiable habit when you put them into their bike trailer or seat and when they take up a tricycle or balance bike. 2. Follow the rules of the trail or road. Cyclists riding in streets or highways generally have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle operators. (This includes the responsibility to ride in the same direction as motor-vehicle traffic.) Cyclists riding on sidewalks and in crosswalks

3. Be visible and predictable. Brightly-colored clothing, reflective materials, lights, bells, and even your own body are all important tools that help you to see and be seen on the road. Use a bell, horn, or your voice to announce to motorists, pedestrians, or other riders that you are passing. Use arm signals, eye contact, and your voice to communicate your intentions to other road, trail, and sidewalk users. Constantly scan and listen – in all directions – for oncoming traffic. When riding with your family, talk to them about what you see and hear. Do not wear devices that interfere with your ability to see and hear your surroundings. Alabama law specifically prohibits bicycle drivers from wearing headsets, headphones, or listening devices other than hearing aids. It seems there is always ‘something cycling’ going on in our community. BicycleMobile.org is a great place to learn more about bicycling opportunities and events in the area. You can also connect to the Mobilians on Bikes for special local events and cycling field trips -- you can like them on Facebook for more information. Finally, connect to (my favorite local bike shop) Trek Bicycle Store Mobile for bicycle education, special events, and training groups leaving the shop. Marie Mott is a Mobile native, a Registered Dietitian, mother of two, and is certified by the League of American Cyclists as a Cycling Instructor. She and her husband Robbie own Trek Bicycle Store Mobile.

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Whether your goal is to help your child bridge an achievement gap, have them acquire a new skill or simply get some extra help around the house, planning for a successful summer is entirely within your reach. Below are 10 tips to get you started.

Give Yourself Time - Planning out a fun and productive summer for your family won’t happen overnight. You need to give yourself time to make a plan. If you start before summer vacation kicks off, you will maximize the potential of your ideal activities actually happening. Frantic, last minute planning will cause you undue stress. Set Goals - The potential to fritter away

long, hot, lazy days is incredibly tempting and the time will fly by without anything to show for it if you don’t set goals. Whether you have one child or five, be sure to sit down with each one to discuss their ideas as well as your expectations for the summer. Set 3-5 concrete goals for each member of your family and be sure to check progress weekly.

Let Your Kids Decompress - Once summer has kicked off, give your kids a little bit of breathing room. They have been in a classroom for six plus hours each day and they have earned a break. Before you begin the weekly schedule of activities that you have planned, give your kids a weekend to just relax. It will help ease the transition into the new season and allow you to get started on a good foot. Change Up House Rules - Whether your kids are in camp or at home, it’s time to reboot house rules. Account for things like bedtimes for younger kids, whether older children are allowed to have friends over

while you are out and any chores the kids are expected to do. All responsible parties, your spouse and supplemental child care, should be aware of the expectations and rules.

Prepare for Projects Ahead of Time - When you plan to teach your five

year old to swim or produce a scale model of the Eifel Tower out of popsicle sticks with your seventh grader, you have to have the materials and the know how to get it done. When setting your goals and planning activities, be sure you know what it will take to meet each goal. Don’t set yourself up for failure when success is just a few mouse clicks away.

Shop Once a Week - Sit down and

make a schedule of all of the activities, projects, playdates, chores and obligations you have for a given week. Make up a meal plan that flows with your schedule and figure out exactly what you need from which stores. Once you have your list, choose the most convenient day for your errands and knock them out in one morning or afternoon. Once you’ve done the front end work, be sure to stick with your plan as best you can. This strategy will save you time, money and the frustration of being out of popsicle sticks when you go to construct that Eifel Tower.

Organize to Fit Your Needs - When

school gets out, be sure that you have all of the materials and supplies you will need for the day to day. Do an inventory check and if you’re missing items, put them on your shopping list. Gather things that will be used together into a central location and be sure that the essentials are at hand and easy to retrieve. Set things up so that the kids can help themselves as much as possible. It may

be summer, but you are not their servant. A little organization will go a long way.

Team Up With Childcare - If you are

home with your kids in the summer, chances are that you are going to need a break, and if you don’t have them signed up for camp, you definitely will. Talk to other moms in your community, particularly the ones who have similarly aged children, and see if you can set up a kid swap. You watch their kids for an afternoon and they return the favor. No babysitter costs and you get the chance to do your errands in peace.

Take Personal Days - If you work full

time outside of the home, be sure to take a few personal days to spend some quality time with your family. Whether you take the time to go on a vacation, do a day trip with the kids, or just hang around the house, enjoy the presence of your family. You also need some breathing room in the summer.

Reassess Weekly - Making a plan is only the first step in having a successful summer. The most important step is to reassess what you’re doing each week and make sure that you change the things that are causing you and your family problems. If there is a childcare swap that never seems to pan out, move on from it. If you failed to account for the rain that washed out three of your planned pool days last week, make a backup plan for this week. Success takes some planning and a little bit of work on the front end, but your family will thank you as they experience the best summer yet. MBP Beth N. Davis writes from Rockville, MD where she and her husband are raising their four children.

DUNE RACER · FLOWRIDER · LAZY RIVER ROLLER COASTER · HOUSE OF BOUNCE STARCADE · SCREAMIN’ DEAMON MINI-GOLF · AND MORE!

Come hang out with SpongeBob Squarepants! Sunday, June 5 from 11am - 2pm

906 Gulf Shores Parkway • Gulf Shores, AL • 251.948.2106 33

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Amusement Parks and Outdoor Fun

$7.50+tax and Ages 2 and under free. Open Tuesday – Sunday from 9:00am-6:00pm. Screen on the Green – Outdoor Movie Series www.thevillageofspringhill.com Grab your kids and a few of their friends, blankets and chairs and watch a movie under the stars! Concessions for purchase. Saturday, May 21 – The Princess Bride at 8:15pm (Location TBA) with food trucks Benjamin’s Burger Kaboose, Pizza Hut, and Kona Ice. Saturday, June 25 – Star Wars The Force Awakens at 8:15pm (Location TBA) Food Trucks: Smokin Gringos, Pizza Hut, Kona Ice. More details to follow!

Ferris Wheel at The Wharf (ad on page 3)

4985 Wharf Parkway, Orange Beach  (251) 224-1000; www.alwharf.com  The largest Ferris Wheel in the Southeast. The Ferris wheel is over 112 feet and was made by Italy’s Technical Park. It can hold 140 people in 24 gondolas. Cost: $5.00 per ride.

Waterville USA (ad on page 33)

906 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores (251) 948-2106; www.watervilleusa.com Join the family fun with the Waterpark, Flowrider, Mini Golf, Bounce House, Go-Karts, Arcade, Rollercoaster and much more! For park dates and times please visit watervilleusa.com. Waterpark opens May 21 for 2016. Take advantage of the discount with a SEASON PASS! Text WATERFUN to 45203 to sign up for cool coupons, specials, and more information. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo 1204 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores  (251) 968-5732; www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org  The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is tucked away just blocks from the beach and is home to more than 500 animals including lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, macaws, and more. There is also a petting zoo, reptile house, aviary, seasonal animal encounters, and daily animal shows in the summer. Also offering “Zoo Camp”. Hours are Monday – Sunday 9:00am to 4:00pm. Admission: 13 and up $11 (plus tax), Seniors (55+) $9 (plus tax), children 3-12 $8 (plus tax), Ages 2 and under are free.  Bob’s Paintball 3428 Dawes Rd., Mobile (251) 639-8245, www.bobspaintball.com 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 Check us out! Dauphin Island Concert Series West End Beach Sunset Concert Series End of Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island Join the fun at the West End Beach (end of Bienville Blvd). Admission is $5 per person (children 12 and under free). Concert schedule: Saturday May 29rd - Swing. Additional concert dates are: June 26, July 31, August 14 and September 7 and September 25 or October 2. Bring a beach chair, blanket, sunscreen and bug spray and come enjoy! Global Wildlife Center 26389 LA-40, Folsom, LA (985) 796-3585; www.globalwilldlife.com Enjoy a one and a half hour guided Safari Wagon tour over 900 acres of beautiful Louisiana countryside complete with 12 ponds and a lake. During the tour you’ll come face to face with bison, giraffe, zebra, camels, eland, and much more! The animals roam free. Adults and children alike experience the excitement of feeding the animals during the safari while remaining safe Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

and secure in our custom-built covered wagons with padded seating. Group tours and Private Pinz tours available. Open year round, 7 days a week. Check our website for safari check–in times and availability. Gulf Adventure Center 21101 State Highway 135, Gulf Shores  (877) 947-8434, (251) 948-9494; www.gulfadventurecenter.com  Fly high above white sand dunes and crystal clear waters on our Hummingbird Ziplines. Zipline. Participant weight: minimum weight of 65 pounds and a maximum weight of 260 pounds per person and must be at least 8 years of age .Explore the coast on a kayak or paddle-board and enjoy the natural wonders and wildlife that only the Gulf Coast can provide. Open Monday – Sunday. Reservations requested. Kids Days in Bienville Square – Thursdays www.ncsmobile.org Kid’s days in Bienville starts on Thursday, June 9. Bring the kids out for some summertime fun in Bienville Square each Thursday 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 Thursdays- June 9, 16, 23 and 30 from 10:00am-1:00pm. Mobile International Speedway 7800 Park Boulevard, Irvington (251) 957-2063; www.mobilespeedway.net Alabama’s fastest ½ mile track featuring exciting oval track action including the Southern super Series, winged spring cars, demolition derby and more. Mobile Skate Park 2301 Airport Boulevard, Mobile (251) 208-1650; www.cityofmobile.org/parks Grab your skateboards and join us at Skatepark of Mobile. Mobile Zoo 15161 Ward Rd, Wilmer (251) 207-9423; www.mobilezoo.cc The zoo was established for education and continuing the existence of endangered/non-endangered wildlife. You can see wildlife from all over the world and learn about them. Tour to see exhibits of tropical birds, reptiles, Black Bear, Tortoises, Leopards, Tigers, Lions, deer, many monkey species, huge rodents, and others. The zoo is quiet and peaceful out in the country. Most of the time the only sounds heard are the wildlife. No noise or air pollution out here! You can see your favorite animal and learn about it! Admission: Adults $8.50+tax, Kids(3-12) $7.50+tax, Seniors (65+)

Southern Alabama Paintball 4901 Montee Road, Theodore (251) 301-6004; southernalabam-

apaintball.com At Southern Alabama Paintball, we pride ourselves in providing a safe, family oriented paintball field for all players. We are Mobile County’s largest scenario, woodsball field on 15 acres of land located in Theodore, AL near Mobile, AL. As a scenario field we provide our players with new field layouts and new objectives each weekend. We also have laser tag and airsoft games. The Putting Place 5103 Girby Road, Mobile (251) 375-1490; www.theputtingplace.com Miniature golf in Mobile is back!!! 36 holes of fun and challenging golf for all to enjoy! Before or after the round stop in to our game room! Hours: MondayThursday 3:00pm to 8:00pm, Friday 3:00pm to 10:00pm, Saturday 10:00am to 10:00pm and Sunday 12:00pm to 8:00pm. Rates to play the course are $8.00 for adults and $5.50 for children, tax inlcuded (children under 3 are free with adult purchase). The Track 3200 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores (251) 968-8111; www.gulfshorestrack.com; Go-Karts, Mini-Golf, Bumper Rides, and lots of family fun! Summer hours - Open Monday - Sunday. 9:00am til close. Visit website for tickets and package pricing. Wales West 13670 Smiley Street, Silverhill (888) 569-5337; www.waleswest.com Wales West is offering 2 fun options for 2016 Summer. The Summer Fun Day Pass may be purchased any day of the week and used 9:00am-9:00pm. Activities include a spring-fed Lake, Waterfall, Sandy Beach for play and sunning, Zoom Flume Water Slide, Fishing, Indoor Pool, and Playground. Train rides on Big and Little Trains included, at 1:00pm and 4:00pm. Admission is $16 per person, tax included; 2 and under, Free. Train Ride (only) tickets may be purchased for the above train schedule, $8 for Big Train, $12 for Big and Little Train, per person, tax included; 2 and under, Free. Purchases may be made in Gift Shop and Tea Room while Train Station is open for rides. X-Treme Paintball 900-A Schillinger Road S, Mobile (251) 639-0399, www.xpb.us Hours of Operation: Saturday-10:00am-6:30pm, Sunday-12:00pm-6:30pm. Field hours on Saturday and Sunday are subject to participation. We will stay open later or close earlier depending on the players.

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Environmental and Marine Education/ Nature Trails Alligator Alley (ad on page 18)

19950 Highway 71, Summerdale (251) 946-BITE; www.gatoralleyfarm.com 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! After a breath taking view, continue your adventure with a nature walk on the elevated boardwalk and see alligators in their natural habitat along with other natural inhabitants such as turtles, ospreys, owls and bull frogs only a couple feet away In our gift shop area, we also display other amphibians, reptiles, and rare species. Open 7 Days a Week – 10:00am-5:00pm. Feedings 11:00; 1:00; 4:00. Cost - Adult-$12 (plus tax), Children-$10 (Ages 4-12) (plus tax), Seniors-$10 (65+) (plus tax) and 3 and under are free. Alligator food (chow) is $4 (plus tax). Call for more info or to schedule a b-day party!

Dauphin Island Sea Lab (ad on page 23)

101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island  (251) 861-2141; www.disl.org  Explore the four key ecosystems of coastal Alabama at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. The Estuarium’s visual and engaging exhibits showcase the plants, animals and other natural resources found in the Mobile Tensaw River Delta, the Mobile Bay, the Barrier Islands and the Northern Gulf of Mexico. Our summer excursions and camps take you into the salt marsh, across the beach and into the maritime forest for a hands-on learning experience. Bring your friends and family. Summer hours: Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Estuarium Admission: Adults $11, Children 5 years - 18 years (with a Student ID) $6, Seniors $8. Group rates available.  Summer camp information and registration online at www.disl.org. Back Country Trail (251) 981-1180; www.backcountrytrail.com Explore the beauty and diversity of the Back Country Trail! 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. Explore the timeless beauty of the Butterfly Garden, rock climb in the Boulder Park; enjoy the mystical Freshwater Marshes and the Coastal Hardwood Swamps. Catch a glimpse of a Bobcat on the Twin Bridges, a White Tailed Deer on Gulf Oak Ridge or explore the newest addition, Coyote Crossing. Capture adventure while enjoying biking, jogging, walking, plant and tree identification, wildlife, photography and simply connecting to nature. For trail maps, pictures, locations and other information please visit the website. Bellingrath Gardens  12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd, Theodore (251) 973-2217; www.bellingrath.org  Bellingrath Gardens and Home is a 65 acre estate of year-round beauty. Come experience the 2004 Top Public Rose Garden in the U.S., as awarded by the All-America Rose Selections, the Bayou Boardwalk, marvel at Mirror Lake, behold the Great Lawn, view the Asian-American Gardens, stroll through the Butterfly Garden, observe formal garden terraces and more!

Tour the Bellingrath Home, complete with its original furnishings and Mrs. Bellingrath’s extensive collection of decorative arts. Located just 20 minutes southwest of Mobile. Gardens-Daily from 8:00am-5:00pm. The Bellingrath Home -Guided tours begin at 9:00am with the last ticket sold at 3:30pm.   Bicycle Trails – Mobile and Baldwin County www.mobileunited.org/MU_trails.php Trail maps for Mobile and Baldwin County areas. Interested in finding a Specialty ride or joining a weekly ride, please visit www.bicyclemobile.org. Birding Trails www.alabamacoastalbirdingtrail.com The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail is a birder’s paradise. Our sun-drenched coast is a popular resort area for a variety of feathered visitors and year-round residents. Also visit the Audubon Bird Sanctuary at Dauphin Island. It has been named one of the top four locations in North America for viewing spring migrations! The Sanctuary (213 Bienville Blvd.) consists of 137 acres of maritime forest, marshes and dunes, including a lake, a swamp and a beach. Meanwhile, the Sanctuary’s 3-mile trail system was designated recently as a National Recreational Trail. For detailed individual trail maps, visit www.alabamacoastalbirdingtrail.com. Bon Secour National Wildlife Reserve  12295 State Hwy 180, Gulf Shores  (251) 540-7720, www.fws.gov/bonsecour  The Bon Secour NWR contains 7,000 acres of wildlife habitat for migratory birds, nesting sea turtles and the endangered Alabama beach mouse. The refuge has been named as one of the 10 natural wonders of Alabama. The refuge office is open from 7am to 3:30pm, Monday through Friday. Refuge brochures and maps are available at trailhead kiosks and outside the refuge office.   Environmental Studies Center (A division of Mobile County Public Schools) 6101 Girby Rd, Mobile (251) 221-5000; www.mcpsesc.com The Environmental Studies Center is a natural sciences education facility designed to provide unique learning experiences not typically available in the local school. Featuring over 500 acres of rich woodlands, the Center affords teachers, students and the general public an opportunity to experience firsthand the natural environment and the interrelationships governing our living world. Natural resources include pine and bay forests, swamps, freshwater streams, carnivorous plant bogs, and a twenty-acre lake. Man-made facilities include numerous nature and hiking trails, an outdoor amphitheater, covered pavilions, a weather station and STARLAB Planetarium, live animal exhibits, native plants garden, and multipurpose instruction building. The building contains an auditorium, library, and classroom/exhibit space containing live reptiles and amphibians, a saltwater aquarium, and numerous preserved specimens commonly encountered throughout southern Alabama. Summer Day camps for kids are also registering now. A donation of $2 per visitor is appreciated. Call for hours and special events. Five Rivers Delta Resource Center 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort  (251) 625-0814; www.outdooralabama.com/5-riversalabamas-delta-resource-center   Explore all the Delta has to offer! Preview some of what the Delta offers in the state-of-the-art Tensaw Theater. Movies allow you to sample a variety of recreation opportunities and highlights of the Delta and Alabama’s natural history. What to experience the delta yourself? Take a boat ride from the dock through Sardine Pass into the Blakeley River. Alligators, blue

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herons, various shore birds – maybe even a bald eagle will catch your eye. Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle the lower delta. The Bartram Canoe Trail has a camping pad. However, you don’t have to leave the resource center to do some exploring. Walk the nature trails, have a picnic or enjoy some of the area’s best bird watching. The Apalachee Exhibit Hall features changing exhibits reflecting the Delta. Numerous programs for all ages throughout the school year and summer including Storytime and Sunday mantinees. Summer camps are offered also. Find us on Facebook! Call for tour times, reservations and more information. Open 7 days a week, 8:00am-5:00pm. Gulf Coast Exploreum 65 Government Street, Mobile (251) 208-6873; www.exploreum.com 8,500-square-foot, hands-on discovery playground with IMAX theatre where learning about science and 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. Hours: TuesdayThursday 9:00am-4:00pm, Friday and Saturday 9:00am-5:00pm and Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm. Gulf Quest 155 S Water St, Mobile (251) 436-8901; www.gulfquest.org 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 lifesized replica of a container ship, so come ready to walk and browse and take your time. There are many places to sit and enjoy the view, both inside the museum and

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

outside overlooking the beautiful Mobile River and the busy of Port of Mobile. Hours of Operation: TuesdayFriday 9:00am-5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am-6:00pm and Sunday 11:00am-6:00pm. Admission: Adults (18-64) $18.00, Youth (13-17) $16.00, Child (5-12) $14.00, Seniors (65+) $16.00, Active Military (w/ ID) $16.00 and College Students (w/ ID) $16.00. Mobile Botanical Gardens 5151 Museum Drive, Mobile (251) 342-0555; www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org 100-acre site of cultivated gardens and woodland trails. Explore on your own or schedule a guided tour. MBG Marketplace Saturdays 9-11 a.m. until the end of June. Also offering classes and events. Admission: Members: Free, Adults $5, Children 12 and under free. Hours: Dawn until Dusk. Check website for more information. Oyster Trail (251) 438.5690; www.theoystertrail.com The Oyster Trail is a fun, educational and public art treasure hunt throughout coastal Alabama. Look for the large fiberglass oysters that have been painted, decorated and bedazzled by artists throughout the area and which can be found along the street, within parks, in lobbies, and well…wherever. Each oyster has a fact plaque that includes important information about the oyster’s ecological and economic benefit to Mobile Bay. Visitors to the Trail are guided by a Trail Map which provides locations of the oysters. Trail Maps can be found in hotels, shops, visitor centers, etc. or can be downloaded from our website. Remember to complete the scavenger hunt form and return it to win Oyster Trail Prizes!

Historical Sites USS Alabama Battleship (ad on page 36)

Battleship Parkway, Mobile (251) 433-2703, www.ussalabama.com At Battleship Memorial Park you’ll walk the decks of a mighty battleship. Go below in a World War II submarine. View cockpits of combat aircraft. You’ll also see tanks, a Vietnam River Patrol Boat, and a plane like the one flown by the Tuskegee Airmen. It’s all here, all waiting to be discovered by you! Hours: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm (April-September) 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (OctoberMarch). Ages 12 and up $15, Ages 6 – 11 $6, Under age 5 is free. Ages 55+ is $13. Military discounts also available. Fort Conde 150 South Royal Street, Mobile (251) 208-7304; wwww.museumofmobile.com/fort-conde In this immersive, interactive exhibit in the heart of Historic Fort Conde, visitors can learn about the people who colonized early Mobile. See historic artifacts of Native Americans and Europeans who played large roles in the evolution of the Port City in a time shaped by innovation, conquest, plunder, piracy, and war. Explore offshoot exhibit rooms called Lifeways that give visitors a taste of what Colonial life was like. Great place for kids and families to learn and explore! Admission is free. Open Daily 8:30am-4:30pm.  Call or visit the website for more information. Fort Gaines 51 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island

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(251) 861-6992; www.dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines/ 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. Historic Blakely State Park 34745 State Hwy 225, Spanish Fort (251) 626-0798; www.blakeleypark.com Tour the preserved Civil War battlefield with its Confederate and Union breastworks and fortifications. Walk or bike on miles of trails or take a 2 hour eco-boat tour. Special events are scheduled throughout the year. Check our webpage for more information. The Park is 9:00am to dusk, seven days a week. Adults $4.00, Children 6-12: $3.00, Children under 6: Free. Mobile Carnival Museum 355 Government Street, Mobile, (251) 432-3324; www.mobilecarnivalmuseum.com Learn the Mardi Gras History! The museum includes interactive exhibits, visitors can “ride” and throw doubloons from a Carnival float. Adults-$5.00, Children 12 and under - $2.00, under age 3 – Free. Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9:00am-4:00pm (final tour at 3:00pm). Oakleigh Historic Complex 300 Oakleigh Place, Mobile (251) 432-1281; www.historicmobile.org Come hear our story! We certainly have a lot to tell you. During your visit to Oakleigh you will step back in time as costumed guides take you on an intimate

tour of Mobile’s official period house museum. Hear stories of Mobile’s early history. Learn about the families who lived at Oakleigh. Experience life during the 1850s in Mobile. A tour of Oakleigh Historic Complex includes Oakleigh, our iconic Greek Revival home constructed in 1833 by cotton factor James Roper; the Cox-Deasy Cottage, built circa 1850 and home to George Cox a popular Mobile brick mason, his wife and 12 children; and The Cook’s House and Garden, built in the late 1860s and home to the Gaither family who worked on the Oakleigh estate for many years. Located minutes from downtown Mobile, Oakleigh offers a pleasant experience for all ages. Open 10:00am-3:00pm Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Closed Wednesday and Sunday. Tours offered on the hour. Last tour is at 3:00pm. $10.00 for adults and $8.00 for ages 12 and under. Phoenix Fire Museum 203 South Claiborne Street, Mobile, (251) 208-7508 www.museumofmobile.com/phoenix-fire-museum The Phoenix Fire 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. Open Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00am5:00pm. Admission: Free. The Museum of Mobile 111 S. Royal Street, Mobile (251) 208-7508, www.museumofmobile.com 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. The museum also boasts audio and interactive exhibits that engage visitors as they learn. Open Monday through Saturdays – 9:00am-5:00pm. Sundays – 1:00pm-5:00pm. Cost: Free Admission University of South Alabama Archaeology Museum 6052 USA Drive South, Mobile; (251) 460-6106 www.southalabama.edu/org/archaeology/museum The Archaeology Museum showcases artifacts from the Gulf Coast and covers over 12,000 years of prehistory and history. Artifacts are contextualized using a series of life-size scenic representations depicting archaeologists at work and glimpses into the ways of life of ancient Woodland cultures, mound-building Mississippian peoples, early French settlers, and an African American family after the Civil War. Free Admission. Open Tuesday – Friday: 9am-4pm and Saturday: 12pm - 4pm.

Bowling/Skating, Movie Theatres, Indoor Fun Altitude Trampoline Park 3659C Airport Blvd, Mobile www.altitudetrampolinepark.com Opening Summer 2016 in Mobile! Bowling at AMF (2 locations) AMF - Camellia Lanes

ADVENTUROUS

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125 North Schillinger Rd. Mobile (251) 639-1221; www.amf.com/camellialanes AMF Skyline Lanes 4120 Government Blvd., Mobile (251) 661-1221; www.amf.com/skylinelanes Breakout Mobile 3090 Dauphin Sq. Connector, Mobile (251) 460-1284; breakoutmobile.com 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! Each game is a real‑life escape room adventure for a small group. It’s great for groups of friends, family, or coworkers. Take team‑building to a whole new level! Carmike Kids Series - Windsong 16 Cinema 785 South Schillinger Road, Mobile (251) 639-7373; www.carmike.com Check our website for summer specials! Chuck E. Cheese’s 710 Downtowner Loop W, Mobile (251) 342-8142, www.chuckecheese.com 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. Toddlers, big kids, and parents will all see why Chuck E. rocks. Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11:00am-9:00pm, Friday-11:00am10:00pm, Saturday 10:00am-10:00pm. Dreamland Skate Center 5672 Three Notch Rd., Mobile (251) 661-6997; www.dreamlandskatecenter.com Check our online calendar for upcoming summer skate times! Get Air 842 Schillinger Road South, Mobile (251) 241-3101; getairmobile.com Wall to wall trampolines, dodge ball, foam pits, basketballdunk, toddler jump area and birthday parties. Hours: Monday - Thursday – 10:00am-10:00pm, Friday - Saturday – 10:00am- Midnight and Sunday 10:00am-8:00pm. House of Bounce 6368 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile (251) 666-3456; www.houseofbouncemobile.com

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

We Do Fun! House of Bounce is an inflatable jump center which offers many fun events for you to enjoy! We don’t just offer awesome Birthday Parties...we offer Stay-N-Play, Date Night, Open Jump, Mom’s Morning Out. and So Much More... Gigantic Inflatable Double Lane Slides, Rock Climb Wall, Mega Inflatable Bounce House, Hurricane Simulator, PS3, Xbox & Karaoke, Glow In The Dark Dance Floor with Laser Light Fog Machine To The Latest Hits, Basketball Challenge, Air Hockey. Please check our Facebook page or website for more information. Jumps – A – Lot 302 Schillinger Road North, Mobile (251) 633-6676; www.jumps-a-lot.com Inflatable party place with arcade room, Jump and Party rentals. Summer open play is Tuesday –Thursday 10:00am until 2:00 pm. $5.50 per person. Starts first week of June – first week of August. Lazer Zone 790 Schillinger Road North, Mobile (251) 639-7330; www.lazerzone.co (not com) We have a multi-level laser tag arena that features state-of-the-art laser tag gear and a challenging maze. We have 2 large party rooms that can also be converted into one large room for extra large groups. Our large lobby will feature fun arcade games and concessions in the near future. Whether you are looking for a place to host your birthday party, church lock-in, school field trip, or business office retreat, LazerZONE Mobile has what you need for a fun, entertaining event! Mobile Museum of Art – Summer Film Series 4850 Museum Drive, Mobile (251) 208-5200 www.mobilemuseumofart.com This summer the Mobile Museum of Art hosts a free Sunday afternoon series of art documentaries that explore the mind and mechanics of creation. Pulling from a selection of both well-known and hidden gems of the profuse documentary genre, we invite you to come cool down with a smart film and picnic in our air conditioned auditorium. We provide the popcorn, bring your own libations for a relaxing summer habit that’s sure to inspire. Please visit our website for the listings of documentaries.

Pete’s Party Castle 2040 Schillinger Road South, Mobile (251) 281-1990; www.petespartycastle.com Pete’s Party Castle is Mobile’s favorite place to sit back and let the kids play. Enjoy great food, arcades, dragon playground, and train ride. Even the little ones can play too in our toddler soft play area. Come see why we’re the best kid’s party place in town. Summer Hours: Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, And Thursday: 10:00am - 9:00pm; Friday - Saturday: 10:00am - 10:00pm. Port City Mini Golf 10 South Conception Street, Mobile (251) 459-8660; www.portcityminigolf.com Mobile’s only indoor mini golf course. Located in the heart of downtown Mobile in the LODA historic district. Port City Mini Golf is a 9-hole, locally themed course. Visitors can cool off and relax while enjoying 60 arcade games or competing for the high score on our skee ball machines. Admission: $7 per person per round, $5 per person for groups of 4 or more people and $1 per person for the 2nd round. Pump It Up 741-A Hillcrest Road, Mobile (251) 342-3940; www.PumpItUpParty.com/mobile-al Summer Open Play: Begins May 30. Monday - Friday all summer long! 9am-5pm, $8/child plus tax. Play as long as you’d like! Ages 1 - 12 welcome. Come in from the heat and enjoy some COOL jumping fun! Meet up with old friends and make some new ones too! Parents play FREE with paid admission of child. Socks and signed waiver required to play. Not a drop off event. Face Painting and other activities on various days through summer! Times subject to change based on field trip events. Please always check our website under “Events Calendar” for up to date Open Jump times. Rambo’s Skateland 531 Highway 43 South – Saraland (251) 675-6601; rambos-skateland.com Come join us for Skating for all ages. More information about summer hours and fun online. Regal Mobile Stadium 18 (Hollywood Theatres) 1250 Satchel Paige Drive, Mobile

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(251) 473-9655; www.regmovies.com 2016 Summer Movie Express runs for 9 weeks - Family fun movies playing on Tuesdays & Wednesdays for the summertime! Admission to the Summer Movie Express is only $1. Tickets available for purchase at the box office and all movies start at 10:00 am. Each week both movies play on both days. A portion of the proceeds goes to the Will Rogers Institute. Skateland 531 Saraland Blvd South, Saraland (251) 675-6601 New Owners! Newly Remodeled! Come join us for Skating for all ages. Find us on Facebook! Spa-Tea-Da Girls Spa and Tea Parties 3938 Government Blvd., Mobile (251) 447-4846; www.spa-tea-da.com 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 sure to cure a girls summer boredom blues. Summer etiquette classes and more. Check our events tab on our website for more information. Sunshine Skate Center Summer Skate 950 Hillcrest Road, Mobile (251) 639-1704; www.sunshineskate.com Summer Fun at Sunshine begins June 7! Summer Schedule: Tuesday-Thursday 10am-4pm $7, Tuesday 6pm-10pm $4, Thursday 6pm-9pm $3, Friday 7pm11pm $9, Saturday 12pm-3pm or 4pm-7pm $7, Saturday night 7pm-11pm $9 and Sunday 2pm-5pm $7. Please visit our website and special events page for more information on upcoming events.

Sunshine Sue’s Playgarden 1108 Dauphin Street, Mobile (251) 421-2434; sunshinesuesplaygarden.com Play Place, Drop off Service, Birthday Parties, Classes and More! Check our website for dates, rates, summer camps and special classes coming up. Watermelon Patch 6417 Hillcrest Park Ct., Mobile (251) 633-3288; thewmpatch.com The Watermelon Patch is a planned play and early childhood learning program for children Birth to 12 years of age. Our space and equipment also offer a great Birthday Party venue for a wide age range. Summer Camp in June and July. Find us of Facebook!

Arts and Crafts Alabama Contemporary Art Center (formerly known as Centre for the Living Arts) 301 Conti Street, Mobile (251) 208-5682; www.alabamacontemporary.com Alabama Contemporary Art Center is a non-profit contemporary arts center located on Cathedral Square in the heart of Mobile’s historic downtown

district. Admission to the Alabama Contemporary Art Center (formerly known as Centre for the Living Arts) is free on Fridays. Check out the center’s current exhibit, “History Refused to Die,” featuring more than 75 works by 15 Alabama self-taught artists from the collection of William S. Arnett and Souls Grown Deep Foundation. Classes and Summer Camps will be inspired by current installations. Pre-K and Kids Studio are programs available for children to explore contemporary art and music. Price: Free with gallery admission. Summer Camps offered – please check our website for more information. Hours: Thursday 11:00-5:00pm, Friday: 12:00pm – 6:00pm, Saturday: 11:00am-5:00pm, Sunday: 12pm – 5pm. Admission: $5 for adults; $3 for Seniors and

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Students, Members and children under 12 are free. Free on Fridays. Home Depot www.homedepot.com Home Depot offers free workshops for children AND adults. For project details, dates and times visit www. workshops.homedepot.com and use the tabs to view Do-It-Yourself, Do-It-Herself and Kids Workshops. Mobile Museum of Art 4850 Museum Drive, Mobile (251) 208-5200; www.mobilemuseumofart.com The Mobile Museum of Art provides a place where people enrich their lives through interaction with the visual arts in thought-provoking and creative ways that nourish and delight the mind and spirit. For the fundamental purpose of education, the Museum collects, conserves, exhibits, interprets and researches art. The museum has numerous programs and happenings. Art Classes, Art Blast, the Museum’s summer art camp, (Visit our website for pricing and more information) Thursdays at the Museum - Every Thursday from 10 a.m. till 9 p.m. the museum offers free admission to all visitors. Join the Mobile Museum of art each week to experience the museum in new and exciting ways throughout the year. Open Tuesday- Sunday 10:00am5:00pm. Adults: $12, Seniors: $10 Students: $8. (Members are free). Mobile Parks & Recreation Community Activities Location TBA, Mobile (251) 460-2421; www.cityofmobile.org/parks Camps offering arts, crafts, sports and much more. Call 666-6404 or 666-6053 or visit www.cityofmobile.org/ parks or www.communityactivitiesprogram.com. Paint & Pals (2 locations)   28600 Hwy. 98, Daphne  6345k Airport Blvd., Mobile (251) 654-2313; www.paintandpals.com  Artists will guide you step by step as you paint your own masterpiece on a pre-sketched canvas. No experience required! Paint solo or bring your friends. Summer art classes available. We have classes that are open to the public, however, Reservations are required.

on an imaginary seven-week road trip from the beach to the county fair and beyond, with fun kids’ crafts at each stop. Get a stamp for each stop on your passport card and choose a special prize after 5 stamps! Plus, You’ll have time at the end of session to doodle, play and create with the products from that week’s sponsor. Please visit our website for more information.

Farmers Markets and Open Air Markets Betty’s Berry Farm 3887 Driskell Loop Road, Wilmer, (251) 649-1711, (251) 680-0684; www.bettysberryfarm.com Come pick your own blueberries from mid-May-July!! Our berries are never sprayed with any chemicals, so you can taste them in the field with no worries! If it’s pretty outside, we’re open. Mornings and late afternoons are the best times to pick! We accept cash or farmer’s market vouchers. No debit or credit. Closed on Mondays. Blue Moon Farm 13620 Tom Gaston Road, Mobile, (251) 865-0252 bluemoonfarm-grandbay.com; pdk625@gmail.com U-Pick Blueberries and Blackberries-Blueberry PlantsCut Flowers-U/Pick Flowers- Specialty Plants-Organic Vegetables-Farm Fresh Eggs-CSA Farm Shares. During June open Daily 9am-dusk. Call for open dates during other months. Come out and enjoy the country. Bring kids (and pets). Buckets to collect blueberries and bottled water available. U-Pick Sunflowers and Zinnias. Flea Market Mobile 401 Schillinger Rd. N. (251) 633-7533, www.fleamarketmobile.com 800 booths under one roof! Clean and modern facilities. Rain or shine! Free. Sat.-Sun., 9am – 5pm Market on the Hill (251) 208-1550; www.ncsmobile.org Thursdays starting May 26 – July 28, 3-6 pm. Get the freshest spring crops in South Alabama. Shop for locally grown honey, produce, flowers, breads, casseroles, plants, seafood and much more! Enjoy live music, children’s activities. Location: Lavretta Park

Paint Party Studios 15 Upham Street, Mobile 251-343-2423; www.paintpartystudios.com; facebook. com/paintpartystudios/ Paint Party Studios has been in business since 2008 and is the largest open acrylics paint studio in the Gulf Coast region specializing in acrylic painting on canvas and wood. An All Inclusive Art Studio Experience. Reserve your spot online or call us. Summer camps availability.

Oak Hill Produce 7250 Grand Bay Wilmer Road, Grand Bay (251) 751-2006; oakhillproduce.com For all the foodies out there, enjoy the luxury of garden fresh produce without all the hard work. Stroll through the U-Pick garden and gather your own farm fresh fruits and vegetables including tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers, okra, watermelon, blueberries, cantaloupe and more. Open Monday – Friday 7:00am5:00pm and Saturday 7:30am-3:00pm.

LoDa Artwalk 2nd Fridays of each month Second 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.

Spring Market on the Square (251) 208-1550; www.ncsmobile.org Now through July 30th. From 7:30am until 12:00pm.Cathedral Square. Shop for the freshest crop in town! This time of year is our favorite because you can buy locally grown tomatoes, potatoes, sweet corn, cantaloupes, watermelons, plants and flowers, as well as seafood, baked goods, pastas, casseroles, pies, handcrafted goods and much more. Stay for live music on the green!

Lowe’s  www.lowesbuildandgrow.com Visit the Lowes Build and Grow website to see what exciting projects Lowes has planned for the children. Free Kids Clinics – Build a wooden project and get a free apron, googles, patch, and much more! Michael’s Arts and Crafts (251) 473-8520; www.michaels.com Kids Summer Crafting! Join us in our store classrooms Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

Libraries and Story Times Mobile Public Library www.mplonline.org Many of the local libraries have very exciting events and activities during the summer. Summer Reading

Program, Movies, Activities, Art Projects, Clubs and more! We encourage you to visit your local library’s website for details! 2016 Summer Reading Program kick-off will be held at the Mobile Museum of Art on Saturday, June 4 from 10:00am-1:00pm. The FREE program, which runs from June 4 – July 30, features special guest performers, storytimes, movies, crafts, games and more at all Library locations. Children, who receive a MPL sports bottle, can sign up any time during the eight weeks and are encouraged to set reading goals for the summer. Visit mplonline.org.

Things To Do - Sports Azalea City Golf Course 1000 Gaillard Drive, Mobile (251) 208-5150; www.azaleacitygolfcourse.com Azalea City Golf offers golf lessons for all golfers. We have various skill level lessons offered from the novice student to advanced lessons for more experienced golfers. Contact our office for more information for private lessons. The Ballpark Mobile 14061 Airport Blvd, Mobile 251- 694-2888; www.theballparknj.com We offer lessons in baseball, softball, soccer fast speed and agility and camps and clinics. Call us or check our website for more information. Find us on Facebook. City of Mobile Parks & Recreation (251) 208-1650; www.cityofmobile.org/parks City of Mobile Swim Association www.swimcmsa.com We have a history of being one of the finest competitive swim teams in Southeastern Swimming and have been serving the Gulf Coast since 1979. We are a parent operated, non-profit program. Our swimmers, coaches, and parents are all proud of our past accomplishments and we are looking forward to an even brighter future. Our team is comprised of a variety of practice groups ranging from the entry-level swimmer to the Senior National and Olympic Trials qualifier. CMSA’s team goals are to develop the character, skills, and desire necessary for each child to maximize their potential. Our swimmers develop physical fitness, selfdiscipline, and self-esteem enabling them to maximize their potential, both athletically and personally. Mobile Bay Bears Baseball Hank Aaron Stadium, 755 Bolling Brothers Blvd (251) 479-2327; www.mobilebaybears.com Minor League Baseball at its best! Mobile International Speedway 7800 Park Boulevard, Irvington (251) 957-2063; www.mobilespeedway.net Alabama’s fastest ½ mile track featuring exciting oval track action including the Southern super Series, winged spring cars, demolition derby and more. Home of the ARCS Mobile 200. Mobile Sailing School 4295 Marina Dr. N, Mobile (251) 709-4102; www.mobilebaysailingschool.com The Mobile Bay Sailing School, has been teaching sailing and basic seamanship skills to kids between the ages of 8 and 18 since 1982. This program is open to anyone who has an interest in learning about this wonderful sport. Mobile Youth Sports Training Academy 1301 Azalea Road, Mobile, (251) 445-9777 Mobile Youth Sports is an indoor/outdoor training academy dedicated to athletes of all ages and abilities looking to improve their skills and take their game to

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the next level. Mobile Youth Sports is unique because it offers the athlete the opportunity to practice their game year-round. With indoor and outdoor facilities as well as sports conditioning and speed school training your athlete will be one step ahead of the competition. The Academy houses a 13,000+ square foot gym and surrounding field areas. Mobile Tennis Center (251) 208-5181; www.mobiletenniscenter.net Largest municipal tennis complex in U.S. with 60 Courts. Summer Tennis Clinics offered.

Water Fun, Sailing, Cruises and Tours Mobile Bay Sailing School (ad on page 4)

4295 Marina Dr. N, Mobile (251) 709-4102; www.mobilebaysailingschool.com The Mobile Bay Sailing School, has been teaching sailing and basic seamanship skills to kids between the ages of 8 and up since 1982. This program is open to anyone who has an interest in learning about this wonderful sport.

Mobile County Aquatic League (ad on page 29)

www.mcalswimming.com Summer fun… here we come! Don’t miss out, join a MCAL club today and start swimming! For leagues and meet information visit our website.

Waterville USA (ad on page 33)

Dolphin Cruises - Cold Mil Fleet 5749 Bay La Launch Avenue, Orange Beach (251) 943-3510; www.dolphincruises.com One and 1/2 hour journey into the inland waters. Our goal is to get the energetic mammals to play their favorite game… surfing! The dolphins love to surf along the side of the boat jumping, rolling, and catching glances at their spectators. Delta Airboat Express 3733 Battleship Parkway, Spanish Fort  (251) 370-7089; www.airboatexpress.com  Take a tour with us and experience a treat for the Whole family! Learn about the wildlife in the MobileTensaw Delta while having an educational, fun airboat ride that the whole family will enjoy! Tours depart from the Original Oyster House on The Causeway. We are open for reservations 7 days a week. Must call for reservations. Please call or visit our website for hours and rates. Delta Explorer (251) 626-5581; www.blakeleypark.com/delta.asp Educational and FUN! Book at tour (approximately 2 hours) aboard the “Delta Explorer”, combine it with a *guided tour of Historic Blakeley State Park for an outstanding adventure. Journey with us by boat through the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, one of Alabama’s Ten Natural Wonders. Visit this wilderness eco-system where you will find wetland habitats ranging from marsh to cypress-tupelo swamp and bottomland hardwoods. The Delta is also home to the State’s largest population of Experience this adventure from the comfort of the covered “Delta Explorer” eco-tour boat, complete with bench seating and restroom facility.

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Five Rivers Outfitters/Bartram Canoe Trail/ Delta Safaris 30841 Five Rivers Blvd Spanish Fort (251) 259-8531; www.outdooralabama.com/5rivers-bartram-canoe-kayak-landing Five Rivers Outfitters overlooks the beautiful Mobile-Tensaw Delta. If you’re up for an unforgettable adventure, rent a canoe or kayak to explore the beautiful Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Rentals are available for half or full days and guided trips are also available. Gulf Coast Ducks 2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile (251) 406-8262; www.gulfcoastducks.com Heads up Gulf Coast, a new tourist attraction is soon to launch at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park. Gulf Coast Ducks will begin giving amphibious tours in Mobile Bay, the Mobile River, and downtown Mobile starting in late May. The thrill of driving on land only to then splash down into the water something you will not want to miss. Duck tours will last approximately 70 minutes and will feature a quacktastic family thrilling experience. Come join us on a tour of Mobile like you have never seen it before! Mobile Bay Ferry 101 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island 51 State Highway 180 West, Gulf Shores (251) 861-3000, www.mobilebayferry.com 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. The trip takes approximately 40 minutes and is a great way for passengers to view birds, sea life and other boats and ships. For fares and other information, visit the website. Pirate Ship Cruise 4575 South Wilson Blvd, Orange Beach (251) 981-4127; www.orangebeachpirateship.com Bring your young pirates aboard the American Star for a swashbuckling Pirate Adventure. Your mini mates will have the opportunity to act like pirates, get their face painted and learn some pirate lingo. Once on board the young pirates will defend the ship in a gun battle, sing along as the pirate crew sings songs of the sea, hear true stories of pirate and privateer attacks in the legendary Pirates Cove, and hunt for lost gold and treasure! Free soft drinks provided. Southern Rose Dolphin Trips 27212 Marina Road, Orange Beach (855) 524-8837; southernrosedolphintrips.com When you go on a tour with us, seeing a dolphin is an absolute guarantee. The boat ride is very relaxing and enjoyable experience for individuals, couples, and entire families. When it comes to our parasailing adventures, we’re pleased to provide you with the rare and exciting opportunity to fly anywhere from 500-800 feet in the air! In addition to our regular dolphin tours and parasailing, we also offer a Sunset Dolphin & Dinner Cruise for large groups, flyboard, watersports and jet ski tours.

Plays and PerformancesAzalea City Center for the Arts (251) 510-1808; www.azaleacityarts.com Chickasaw Civic Theatre (251) 457-8887; www.cctshows.com Joe Jefferson Players (251) 471-1534; www.joejeffersonplayers.com Mobile Civic Center (251) 208-212; www.mobilecivicctr.com Mobile Chamber Music (251) 476-8794; www.mobilechambermusic.org Mobile Opera (251) 432-6772; www.mobileopera.org Mobile Pops (251) 679-6036; www.themobilepops.com/index.html Mobile Saenger Theatre (251) 208-5600; www.mobilesaenger.com Mobile Symphony Orchestra (251) 432-2010; www.mobilesymphony.org Mobile Theatre Guild (251) 433-7513; www.mobiletheatreguild.org The Playhouse in the Park (251) 602-0630; www.mobilepip.org University of South Alabama Laidlaw Performing Arts Center (251) 460-6136; www.southalabama.edu MBP

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New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.

Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!

We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?

Riverview Reﬁnement, Program, Campﬁres night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...

waiting lists start early...sign up soon!... Waitingwww.riverviewcamp.com! lists start early...sign up soon!...

Only 1 /Mountain 2 hours from Huntsville Located on top of Lookout in Mentone, AL. Only a 3 hr drive. 1

Call for FREE DVD and catalog 1-800-882-0722 Accredited by American Camping Association • Members of Christian Camping International

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www.mobilebayparents.com

Find

A Page in a Book

The Power of One Word Words have power. Some more that others. While ‘chair’, ‘green’ and ‘pencil’ are words that generate a narrower range of imagery among those who hear them, there are also words that call to mind special images and feelings for everyone who hears them. Single words like ‘Mom’, ‘home’ and ‘love’ are powerful and can mean something unique to each person. The following books are powered by a solo word title. And even though just a single word sets the stage, these titles make the one word speak volumes!

STAY!

by Alex Latimer (Peachtree Publishing) Ben believes his dog, Buster, is the best in the world. But in truth, Buster is a real handful. Wild at heart, hard to control, and powered with excess energy, he’s almost more than a family can handle. So when Ben’s parents plan their vacation, they realize it will be best for all concerned to leave Buster with Grampa. This decision spurs Ben to begin writing down some helpful tips that will aid Grampa in the care and keeping of a dog like Buster. But as he writes, he thinks of more things Grampa needs to know and his initial note becomes an endless stream of pages (and later postcards) with helpful tips for Buster’s management. Delightfully illustrated by Latimer (and Ben) the epistolary style of this laugh-out-loud picture book will keep it in top rotation for young readers!

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SWAP!

by Steve Light (Candlewick Press) A grizzled sailor and his young companion with a peg leg are forlorn and shore-bound with an old ship that needs a massive overhaul to become seaworthy. As they wander along the quayside marketplace, a loose button sparks an idea in the enterprising boy. The two sailors begin to trade for the things they need to bring the ship back into shape. Their button is offered to a woman for two teacups and the first swap is made. Teacups are swapped for coils of rope and their journey of trade continues. Readers will begin to discern hints in the highly detailed illustrations that explain how each swap serves each trader’s needs. This early introduction to economics may spur some creative bargaining from kids who demand repeat reading of this book.

WHOOPS!

by Suzi Moore, Illustrated by Russell Ayto (Candlewick Press) The problem is simple enough. A cat, a dog and a mouse are not able to make their trademark sounds. In search of their “meow”, “woof” and “squeak” respectively, the three are advised by the owl to seek out a spell from the old lady in the tumbledown house. Hoping for the “spell to make them well”, the voiceless trio travel to the old lady for help. But her skills are a little rusty and the right spell might be harder to cast than anyone expects. Ayto’s spare line drawings enjoy powerful color treatment as the story progresses, and Moore’s on point rhyming text is punctuated with sound effects that the read-aloud set will enjoy sharing with the reading partner. As unintended consequences generate a fair number of “Whoops!”, the final result of the “spell to make them well” truly defines the title word. Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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Young girls need strong male role models in their lives. When a father shows a genuine interest in his daughter and treats her with respect, he sends her the message that all men should treat her in a similar manner. And they should.

Dads want the best for their little girls and when they

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connect with their darling daughter, they are gifted with the opportunity to give their girl the best parts of themselves. Whether you know a dad who needs a hand up building his relationship with a little lady or are a father working to recon-

nect with his teenager, here are a few quick tips for dad.

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

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Get Involved

Do you come home after work and immediately turn on the TV or flip on your iPad? Perhaps you don’t get home until after your kids are in bed. Whatever the case, now is the time to re-evaluate your priorities. By getting involved with at least one aspect of your daughter’s life, you will see a change in how connected the two of you are. Coach her soccer team. Have dinner with the family a few times a week. Get to know the other dads in her social circle. Making the time to get involved is a great first step.

Got Dust? It's virtually impossible to avoid—and it can trigger an asthma attack. Asthma is characterized by excessive sensitivity of the lungs to various stimuli. Certain triggers—ranging from viral infections to allergies to irritating gases and particles in the air—can make asthma worse. Each child reacts differently to the factors that may trigger asthma.

Respect Her Mother

The way you treat your daughter’s mother (and your own mother) will speak volumes to your little girl about how men treat women and what she should expect in the future. A good rule of thumb is to always treat your wife the way you want your daughter’s future husband to treat her. You may not know it, but she is watching you for cues on how to behave with men.

We can help you recognize what makes your child's asthma worse and find simple solutions to reduce and avoid asthma attacks.

Great Dates for Dads and Daughters

Looking for a few ideas for a great father/daughter date? Try one of these favorites on for size:

Dinner The Movies Bowling Ice Cream Picnic in the park Hiking Shopping Playing video games at home Seeing a play at the theater

Carve Out One-on-One Time

Daddy/daughter dates are one of the best things you can do to connect with your daughter. Plan ahead, but be sure to include her in the process. If you make this special time a weekly or monthly occurrence, you will fall into a rhythm that makes you more relatable and easier to talk to. This is when she will start confiding in you and letting you into her world.

Hug Her

No matter how old your daughter gets, never stop showing her affection. Hugs may not seem welcome when your teenager is giving you the cold shoulder, but studies show that the teenage years

ChildrensAL.org/asthma

Asthma Clinic Specialized asthma care for: l

Children with severe asthma Children with repeat hospital and/or urgent care visits l Children and families with unique asthma education needs l Children with other conditions that make asthma hard to control l

Appointments made by physician referral only. For appointments, call: 205.638.9583

ChildrensAL.org/asthma For Children’s Financial Assistance information contact 1.844.750.8950 or visit www.childrensal.org/financial-assistance

are the most formative time for a young girl’s self-esteem. She needs those hugs.

Tune In to the Details

Girls today have a lot going on and parents can sometimes be clueless to the details of their daughters’ lives. Do you know who her close friends are? What books she is reading? What TV shows and celebrities she is interested in? Tuning in to the little details of your daughter’s life will make her feel like an important part of your world.

Follow Up

If your daughter comes to talk to you about a problem, check in with her about 45

it after the fact. Nothing says “I care” more than interested follow up on previous discussions. Follow up lets her know that you were listening to her and will make her more likely to confide in you in the future. Whether your daughter is young and you are working to lay a foundation for the future or she is a teenager or older and you are looking to repair a distant relationship, connect with her today and you will both enjoy the benefits of a strong relationship for years to come. MBP

Beth N. Davis writes from Silver Spring, MD where she and her husband are raising their four children (including three young daughters).

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Shadow Lawn Baptist Church

5665 Dogwood Trail, EightMile, AL 36613 (251) 675-1447; June 5 through June 10 6:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Classes for all ages from nursery to senior adults. Class for 3 year olds with parents and grandparents attending.

Shiloh Baptist

717 Cleveland Rd., Saraland 251-675-3587, www.shilohbc.com May 7; PreK - 2nd grade Theme: “Get out of the Boat”; 9:00am-1:00pm. See June 9-10 for grades 3– 8.

Spring Hill Baptist

2 McGregor Ave S., Mobile (251) 342-5320; www.shbc.cc June 5-8; 5:30– 8:00pm; Ages 4K – 6th grade A light dinner will be served each evening. Join us for Deep Sea Discovery VBS where kids will discover that God is with them wherever they go! Sign up online at www.shbc.cc between April 18 – May 24 for a free t-shirt! Get ready to dive into God’s Word!

Government Street Baptist

3401 Government Blvd, Mobile (251) 660-7444; www.governmentstreet.org June 6-9; 9:00am-12:00pm; Completed 4K-5th grade; Theme - “Walk This Way”

Government Street Presbyterian

300 Government Street, Mobile (251) 432-1749; www.gspcmobile.org June 6-9; 8:30am-12:30pm; Cost - $15 Theme - “Barnyard Roundup – Jesus Gathers Us Together”; Register online at vbsmate.com/ GSPCvbs2016.

Highpoint Baptist Church

2421 Lott Road, Eight Mile, AL 36613 (251) 452-4601; www.highpointbc.org June 6 - June 10, 6pm “Submerge Your Kids In God’s Word” This summer, take your family on an adventure like no other, deep within the mysterious sea. As kids submerge themselves in God’s Word, they will discover that Jesus didn’t just see what’s on the outside of people. He looked deep down on the inside. So grab your goggles, step into your flippers, and dive in to find truth below the surface!

Hope Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church

1644 Wolf Ridge Rd, Whistler, AL (251) 456-7638 June 6-10; 5:00pm -8:00pm; All ages are welcome to attend! Theme: “Jesus: The True SuperHero” Part 2 “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

of the devil” Eph. 6:11; Bible Study, Arts & Crafts, Recreation, Refreshment, Music, Dance! Contact Portia Payne at 660-8685 for information.

Little Flower Catholic Church 2053 Government St., Mobile (251) 478-3381, www.littleflower.cc June 6-10; 8:30am-11:30pm Ages 3 – 8th Grade

Redemption Church

1251 Industrial Pkwy, Saraland (251) 679-3266; goredemption.com June 6-10, 9:00am-12:00pm; Completed 5K-6th Grade; Theme - “Cave Quest - Following Jesus: the Light of the World”

Snow Road Missionary Baptist

809 Snow Road N, Mobile (251) 649-0030; snowroadbaptistchurch.com June 6-10; 9:00am12:00pm, Ages 4 thru 12th Grade Register at the church on June 6 at 8:30 am or for preregistration, register at the church web site snowroadbaptistchurch.com.

Ashland Place United Methodist Church 15 Wisteria Avenue, Mobile (251) 478-6356; www.apumc.com June 6-10; 9:00am – 12:30pm, Cost - $15 Theme - “Cave Quest – Following Jesus the Light of the World” For more information, please email Amy True at atrue@apumc.com or call 478-6356.

St. Mary Catholic Parish

107 N. Lafayette Street, Mobile (251) 432-8679, www.stmarymobile.org June 6-9; 9:00am-12:00pm; Ages: K-5th grade Theme - “Cave Quest-Following Jesus, The Light of the World!” The cost is $20 for campers who register by May 27 and $25 per camper after that date. The program takes place from 9 a.m. to 12 noon daily and will take place in St Mary’s Sisters of Mercy Building located at 106 Providence Street on the campus of St Mary Parish. For registration forms, email Ashley Thompson at athompson@stmarymobile.org or contact the parish office at (251) 432-8678, ext. 1.

Christ Church Cathedral

115 S. Conception St, Mobile, (251) 438-1822; www.christchurchcathedralmobile.org June 7-9; 9:00am-12:00pm; Theme - “Egypt – Joseph’s Journey from Prison to Palace” 46

To register: https://www.groupvbspro.com/vbs/ hl/christchurchcath. For information, please contact Alison Mitchell at alisonsmitchell2@gmail. com or (251) 689-7874.

Shiloh Baptist

717 Cleveland Rd., Saraland 251-675-3587, www.shilohbc.com May 7; PreK - 2nd grade; Theme: “Get out of the Boat”; 9:00am-1:00pm; June 9-10; Grades 3rd - 8th; Theme: “Making it Real”; 6:00pm-6:00pm 24 hours of Making it Real

West Mobile Baptist

7501 Airport Boulevard, Mobile (251) 639-9952; www.westmobilebaptist.org June 12-16, 6:00pm-8:30pm; Ages 4-Grade 6. Theme - “Submerged”

Cottage Hill Baptist

4255 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile (251) 660-2439; www.cottagehill.org June 13-17; 9:00am-12:00pm; Completed 4K8th Grade; Theme - “Walk This Way” Immediately following VBS: Harlem Legends Shoot for the Stars Basketball Camp, Directed by legendary Harlem GlobeTrotter Michael Douglas, Noon-5pm in the ROC Gym at Cottage Hill Baptist Church. For boys and girls ages 7-14, Cost is $135 (includes lunch). Award ceremony on Friday, June 17th, at 3:00pm. For additional information contact Diane Capps at 662-8650 or visit www.cottagehill.org

Lighthouse Baptist Church

6905 Nan Gray David Road, Theodore (251) 653-6542 June 13-16; 6:00-8:00pm; Ages 4-12 Theme - “The Sweet Life”; For more information contact nick.coates@lbctheodore.com.

St. Dominic Parish

4156 Burma Road, Mobile (251) 661-5130; www.stdominicmobile.org June 13-17 8:45am-12:00pm, Community Night June 15 at 6:00pm; 4K – Entering Grade 5 Theme - “Cave Quest – Following Jesus, the light of the world”

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church (ad on page 13)

1050 Azalea Road., Mobile (251) 666-2990; stlukesepiscopalchurch.org June 13-17; 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.; K5-5th grade; 6th-12th graders may sign-up as volunteers. A perfect way to get service hours for school! Theme: “Surf Shack: Catch the Wave of God’s Amazing Love” For information, contact the church office at church@stlukesmobile.org or 666-2990. Registration form at www.stlukesepiscopalchurch.org. www.mobilebayparents.com

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The Baptist Chapel

10431 Old Pascagoula Road, Grand Bay (251) 957-6982 June 13-17, 8:30am-12:00pm; K3-6th grade. Join Dr. Albert Vanguard, his family and crew aboard their fantastic airship as they discover how to conquer the enemy with God’s help. We will have crafts, games, music, snacks and lessons as we venture aboard the airship.

Westminster Presbyterian

2921 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, (251) 471-5451 June 13-17; 9am-12pm; Ages: K -5 grade Theme: “Cave Quest” For information, please call 471-5451 or email wpcmobile@comcast.net.

First Baptist Church of Dawes

3941 Dawes Road, Mobile (251) 633-7331; www.firstbaptistdawes.org June 19-June 23; 6:00pm-8:30; Ages 3-6th grade; Theme - “Submerged”

Corpus Christi Catholic Church

Shadow Lawn Baptist Church

5665 Dogwood Trail, Eight Mile (251) 675-1447; www.shadowlawnbc.com June 26-July 1; 6:00pm until 8:30pm; For all ages pre-school through adult Nursery for those parents that attend and for the children of those working in VBS. There will be a snack supper every night. Theme - “Submerged”

Travis Road Baptist Church

Saraland UMC

415 McKeough Avenue, Saraland (251) 675-2728; www.saralandumc.org July 11-13; 9:00am-12:00pm; Ages 4 – 5th grade; Theme - “Surf Shack: Catch the Wave of God’s Amazing Love”; Registration Info: Check our website for registration info about a month prior to the event, or children can register on arrival.

St. Mark UMC

5226 Travis Road, Mobile, (251) 661-1620 June 26 - 29, 6:00pm8:00pm; Ages 4k thru 5th grade; Join us for “Mega Sports Camp” VBS. To register or for more information call the children’s director, Rebecca Nelson, (251) 581-2539.

439 Azalea Road, Mobile (251) 342-5861; www. stmarkmobile.com July 11-15; 9:00pm12:00pm; Ages 5 – completed 5th grade. Theme - “Cave Quest – Following Jesus the Light of the World”; Register online at www.stmarkmobile.com or call 342-5861.

Christ United Methodist Church

6300 McKenna Drive, Mobile (251) 342-5474; www.corpuschristiparish.com June 20-24; 8:45am -12pm Children entering Kindergarten - 5th grade Theme: “Cave Quest” For information, contact Diane Stoyka at dianestoyka@yahoo.com or 251-342-5474 ext. 7.

6101 Grelot Road, Mobile (251) 342-0462; www.cumcchildren.com/vbs June 27-July 1; 9:00am-12:00pm; Cost - $15 Ages K3-5th grade; Theme - “Deep Sea Discovery”; Register online at cumcchildren.com/vbs.

Woodridge Baptist Church

Dauphin Way Baptist

Dauphin Island Baptist Church 910 Chaumont Avenue, Dauphin Island (251) 767-6185; www.dibaptist.org June 27-July 1; 9am-12pm; Ages 3 – 6th grade Theme: “Submerged” Please call 251-767-6185 or email faithmatters@ dibaptist.org for more information.

Dauphin Way UMC

3661 Dauphin Street, Mobile (251) 342-3456; www.dwbc.org June 20-24; 9:00am-12:00pm; Completed K-4 thru 6th gradel Theme - “Submerged” Register online at our website.

Mt. Hebron Church Ministries

2531 Berkley Avenue, Mobile (251) 457-9900; ww.mthebroncm.org June 20 - 24. Ages 2 through adult! 6pm - 8:30pm

Snow Road First Baptist

2370 Snow Road North, Semmes (251) 649-7722, www.srfbc.com Kick-Off to VBS and Water Fun Day: June 18 12:00pm-2:00pm. Bring your swimsuits and towels!nJune 20th-24th; 6:00pm-8:30pm Light supper served every evening. Family Day: June 26 - 10:45am; Ages 4 – 6th Grade; Theme “Submerged”; Contact Carolina Burkholder, 251725-3068 or carolinaoburkholder4@gmail.com.

St. Ignatius Catholic Church

3704 Springhill Avenue, Mobile (251) 342-9221, www.stignatiusmobile.org June 20-24, 9:00am-12:00pm; Ages PreK-4th grade; Theme: “Mercy Airways” Cost is $30 for the first child and $15 for each additional child. Contact Brittany DeFalco for information at 6051384 or defalcob@stignatius.org.

Luke 4:18 Fellowship 2664 Sollie Rd., Mobile, (251) 281-1418 VBS: June 27-July 1, 6:00 - 8:30 PM For children who have completed K-5th grades. Theme: Studying superheroes of the Bible Register at www.luke418fellowship.org. FREE!

Spring Hill Presbyterian 10 Westminster Way, Mobile (251) 342-1550; www.springhillpresbyterian.org June 27-30, 9:00am-11:30am (kids); Thursday – 5:00-7:30 pm (parents and kids); Age 4-Grade 5 Theme - “Splash”; Registration online at shpc.us.

First Baptist Tillman’s Corner 5660 Three Notch Road, Mobile (251) 661-0114; www.fbtc.org July 11-15, 9:00am-12:00pm. Completed K5-6th grade; Theme - “Submerged – Finding Truth Below the Surface” 47

2700 Schillinger Road South, Mobile (251) 633-6000; www.woodridgebc.com July 11-July 15; 8:30am-12:00pm; For kids entering Kindergarten thru entering 6th grade. Theme - “Cave Quest”

1507 Dauphin Street., Mobile (251) 471-1511; www.dauphinwayumc.org/VBS July 18-22; 9:00am -12:00pm; Age 4- completed 5th grade; Theme - “Cave Quest”

Oak Park Church (ad on page 17)

3321 Sollie Road, Mobile (251) 633-6110; www.oakparkministries.com June 21-24; 9:00am-12:30; Ages 3-12. Theme: “Cave Quest”

Semmes First Baptist Church

4070 Wulff Road East, Semmes (251) 649-2319; www.semmesfirstbaptist.net July 18- 22; 8:30am – 12:00pm; Entering Kindergarten to 6th grade. Theme: “Cave Quest”

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

4051 Old Shell Road, Mobile (251) 342-8521; www.stpaulschurchmobile.com July 18-22. Check our website for details.

Covenant Presbyterian Church 2651 Spring Hill Avenue, Mobile (251) 298-7055; covenantpresmobile.org August 1-3; 9:00am-12:00pm; Theme - “The King is Coming”; Email marty@covenantpresmobile.org with questions or to register. MBP

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Family Calendar Friday, May 20

Mrs. Bellingrath’s Birthday Every year, guests are invited to plan a special visit to the Gardens to celebrate Mrs. Bellingrath’s birthday. After touring the beautiful Bellingrath Home and Gardens, be sure to visit the Bellingrath Gift Shop for its “Buy Like Miss Bessie Sale”! 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore. Please visit bellingrath.org for more information.

Saturday, May 21

Memorial 5K Run/Walk and 1 Mile Run/Walk for Alabama’s Fallen Heroes The Blue Star Salute Foundation will host its annual Blue Star Memorial 5K Run/Walk and Fun Run for Alabama’s Fallen Heroes at Battleship Park (2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile). Each runner will run with a name of one of Alabama’s Fallen Heroes on their Race Bib and afterwards during activities, they can visit the wall of Alabama’s Faces of the Price of Freedom to see the faces of their fallen service member. Enjoy a day full of entertainment, fun and food at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park where there will be a variety of activities for everyone. Musical entertainment by the Patriotic singing group “Homeland” and Alabama’s 151st Army National Guard Band. Join us in honoring Alabama’s Military Service members, veterans and our Fallen Heroes. Many VOS’s will be available for serving our military and veterans. The day will conclude with a Gold Star Memorial Service honoring Alabama’s Fallen Heroes. To register online, please visit bluestarsalutefallenheroes5k2016.eventbrite.com. Market on the Square Shop for the freshest crop in Cathedral Square! This time of year is our favorite because you can buy locally grown tomatoes, potatoes, sweet corn, cantaloupes, watermelons, plants and flowers, as well as seafood, baked goods, pastas, casseroles, pies, handcrafted goods and much more. Saturdays through July 30, from 7:30 a.m. until noon. For more information, please call (251) 208-1550.

May/June2016

in learning about the physical changes that they will experience as they mature. FREE! Light meal provided. This class fills up very quickly. Reservations required by calling 460-5447. Please leave the name of the young lady and the name of the parent who will accompany them. A contact phone number and how you heard about the class are very helpful, as well. This is an annual event held each spring. Location: Gerald L Wallace Conference Center (3715 Dauphin Street, 4th Floor) from 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 28 Market on the Square See May 21 for more information.

Monday, May 30

Mobile Pops Band Concert The Mobile Pops Band Concert at 7:00 p.m. at Cottage Hill Park (1711 Hillcrest Road, Mobile). Please visit www. themobilepops.com for more information.

Wednesday, June 1

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home Join us this June and July for Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home, a fun, informative series to help Gulf Coast gardeners and enthusiasts make the most of our extended growing season. Each workshop covers a special feature of the Gardens or Home and includes tips for making your garden more spectacular. Unless otherwise noted, all sessions are from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Magnolia Room in the Gift Shop/Café building. For more information, visit www.bellingrath.org, or call 251-973-2217. Admission fees are $13 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 5-12 and free to members and to ages 4 and younger.

Monday, May 23

Auditions for “Wizard of Oz” – Playhouse in the Park Auditions will be held May 23rd and 25th from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Playhouse (4851 Museum Drive). Those auditioning should be ages 6 to mid-20’s and be prepared to sing a short song. Please visit playhouseinthepark.org for more information.

Wednesday, May 25 Auditions for “Wizard of Oz” – Playhouse in the Park See May 23 for more information.

Thursday, May 26

Anatomy of the Museum: The Anatomy of Sound Described as “achingly beautiful” by The New Yorker and “transcendent” by The New York Times, sound artist Janet Cardiff’s critically acclaimed installation Forty-Part Motet is an artwork made solely of sound, which presents a whole new set of challenges to our curators and gallery technicians. Get the scoop on installing this haunting and complex work. Mobile Museum of Art (4850 Museum Drive) at 6:00 p.m. Please visit www.mobilemuseumofart. com for more information. Market on the Hill Lavretta Park (200 Parkway West/off Old Shell Rd.) is the place for late spring/early summer veggies & fruits, plus baked good and hand-made crafts. Thursdays, May 26 to July 28 from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Springhill Medical Center’s For Girls Only Class Dr. Lauren Self, OB/GYN with Azalea City Physicians for Women, will guide a discussion for girls ages 8-12

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

All4Run and LODA Fun Run Kick-Off Fleet Feet Sports invites you to participate in “All4Run,” a nationwide initiative encouraging communities to take part in a special June 1 group run. Fleet Feet Sports Mobile is partnering with the local Moe’s Bar-B-Que to host this event at their downtown location. That evening will also be the kickoff of Fleet Feet Sports Mobile’s LODA summer running series taking place downtown every Thursday during the summer months. For more information, please visit Fleet Feet Sports Mobile at http://www.fleetfeetmobile. com or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ events/980005135440211/

Thursday, June 2

Night Market – Mobile Museum of Art MMofA hosts a quarterly Night Market that showcases makers, artists, artisans, and craftsman who make locallysourced, handmade goods. Support your local artists and join the party and shopping fun with great food, drink, and live music. 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. at Mobile Museum of Art (4850 Museum Dr). Please visit www.mobilemuseumofart.com for more information. Market on the Hill See May 26 for more information.

Friday, June 3

2016 Coastal Seafood Craze The Alabama Coastal Foundation hosts the fifth annual Coastal Seafood Craze! The Craze will partner with the Mobile Bay Bears at the Hank Aaron Stadium Event Center (755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard, Mobile) from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Please visit www.joinacf.org for more information.

Saturday, June 4

Summer Library Program Kick-off Join us as we officially kick off our 2016 Summer Library Program from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at Mobile Museum of Art (4850 Museum Drive). The free program which runs from June 4-July 30, features special guest performers, storytimes, movies, crafts, games and more at all library locations. Please visit our website at www. mobilepubliclibrary.org for more information. Just for the Mud of It – 5K A 5k run consisting of mud and obstacles. Compete to win, or run for fun. After the event, enjoy awards presentation, food, and music. For more information visit our website: www.justforthemudofit.org. Paddle Skedaddle Spend the morning on the water racing (or moseying) this 1.5 mile course with your family or as an individual! There will be awards, lots of fair games & concessions on the grounds! Funds raised will go to support the University of South Alabama Wesley Foundation. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center - 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort. Please visit Eventbrite.com for more information.

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Grandman Triathlon The Publix Grandman Triathlon begins with a 1/3 mile swim straight out into picturesque Mobile Bay and back beside the Fairhope Municipal Pier and starts at 7:00 a.m. After the swim comes an 18-mile bike ride through the charming city of Fairhope. The race to the finish line begins with a 3.1 mile run through the streets of Fairhope and along the Bay. For more information, please visit www. thegrandman.com. Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament Join us at the Wharf (4830 Main Street, Orange Beach) for the Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament put on each year by the Rotaract Club of the Mobile Bay Area in honor and memory of one of its founding members, Kyser Miree. Kyser. The proceeds from the Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament fund both a scholarship in Kyser’s name at the engineering college at Vanderbilt University and Rotaract’s on-going projects with such groups as Wilmer Hall Children’s Home and Collins-Rhodes Elementary School in Eight Mile. Visit kysertournament.com for information. Sunset Cruise Car Show The 3rd Annual Sunset Cruise Car Show will be held in Green Park on Dauphin Island and will include live music, car corral, food vendors and swamp meet. Please visit townofdauphinisland.org for more information. Art in the Park Nature Fest – Dauphin Island Join us for a juried art fest with fine artists from around the Southeast, children’s activities, food and live entertainment. Location: 601 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Please visit www.dauphinislandtourism.com for more information. Market on the Square See May 21 for more information.

Sunday, June 5

Jubilee Kids Triathlon The Jubilee Kids Triathlon will start at 7:30 a.m. for ages 7-15 at the Fairhope Municipal Pier. This is a swim, bike, run race for kids. For more information or to register, please find us on Facebook.

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Family Calendar Weird AL Yankovic – Saenger Theatre Weird AL Yankovic concert at 7:00 p.m. at the Saenger Theatre (6 S. Joachim Street). Please visit www. mobilesaenger.com for more information. Mobile Museum of Art – Summer Film Series This summer the Mobile Museum of Art hosts a free Sunday afternoon series of art documentaries that explore the mind and mechanics of creation. Pulling from a selection of both well-known and hidden gems of the profuse documentary genre, we invite you to come cool down with a smart film and picnic in our air conditioned auditorium. We provide the popcorn, bring your own libations for a relaxing summer habit that’s sure to inspire. 4850 Museum Drive at 2:00 p.m. Please visit www. mobilemuseumofart.com for more information.

Wednesday, June 8

Kids Gulf Discovery Day at Bellingrath Gardens and Home Plan a day of summertime fun for the family at Bellingrath Gardens and Home at Kids Gulf Discovery Day, an opportunity for children of all ages to learn about the wildlife and ecology of the Gulf Coast. Kids Gulf Discovery Day hours are 9:00 a.m. to noon. Admission is $13 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 5-12 and free to Bellingrath members and to ages 4 and younger. To register, call 251-973-2217. For details, visit our website, www. bellingrath.org. Harry Connick Jr. Concert – Saenger Theatre Harry Connick Jr. at 8:00 p.m. at the Saenger Theatre (6 S. Joachim Street). Please visit www.mobilesaenger.com for more information.

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Market on the Square See May 21 for more information.

“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” See June 10 for more information.

Sunday, June 19

Mobile Museum of Art – Summer Film Series See June 5 for more information. “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” See June 10 for more information.

“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” See June 10 for more information.

Sunday, June 12

Kirk Franklin Concert HUKA Entertainment presents Kirk Franklin- Twenty Years In One Night World Tour at 7:30 p.m. the Saenger Theatre (6 S. Joachim Street). Please visit www.mobilesaenger.com for more information. Every Obstacles Play See June 11 for more information. Mobile Museum of Art – Summer Film Series See June 5 for more information. “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” See June 10 for more information.

Wednesday, June 22

Springhill Medical Center’s For Girls Only Class Dr. Lauren Self, OB/GYN with Azalea City Physicians for Women, will guide a discussion for girls ages 8-12 in learning about the physical changes that they will experience as they mature. FREE! Light meal provided. 7:30 p.m. - Gerald L Wallace Conference Center, 3715 Dauphin Street, 4th Floor, Mobile. Reservations required by calling 460-5447 and leaving the young lady’s name and parent’s name who will remain with the young lady. Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home See June 1 for more information.

Wednesday, June 15

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home See June 1 for more information.

Live at the Museum – Sergio Rangel Join us for live at the Museum at the Mobile Museum of Art (4850 Museum Drive) at 7:00 p.m. $10. Please visit www. mobilemuseumofart.com for more information.

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Every Obstacles Play This is a play for the public to attend. Hosted by an author and businessman, Corey Jones, this play tells the true story about how to use your adversity in life to maximize your opportunities. Mobile Civic Center (401 Civic Center Drive) on Saturday and Sunday.

Thursday, June 16

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May/June2016

Market on the Hill See May 26 for more information. Kids Days in Bienville Square See June 9 for more information.

Thursday, June 9

Kids Days in Bienville Square 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! ThursdaysJune 9, 16, 23 and 30 from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Please visit www.ncsmobile.org for more information. “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” Joe Jefferson Players present “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” weekends June 10 - June 26. Friday and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. Please visit joejeffersonplayers.com for more information. Market on the Hill See May 26 for more information.

Saturday, June 11

Dragon Boat Festival The Third Annual Dragon Boat Festival will take place at Battleship Memorial Park (2703 Battleship Pkwy., Mobile) starting at 8:00 a.m. Please visit fuseproject.org/dragonboat-festival for more information.

Friday, June 17

“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” See June 10 for more information.

Saturday, June 18

GulfQuest Race to the River—a 5K and Family Fun Run GulfQuest is pleased to announce the inaugural Race to the River, a 5K and Family Fun Run to benefit the museum. The start and finish lines for the 5K Run and Family Fun Run will be at Ft. Conde Village with the post-race activities will take place along the river in front of GulfQuest. Those festivities will include live music and refreshments, including a local favorite—shrimp and grits, provided by The Galley (GulfQuest’s café)—plus door prizes. All registered race and fun run participants will be entered to win door prizes that include a GulfQuest Family Membership and a child’s GulfQuest birthday party. Race participants will also receive half-off GulfQuest admission and half-off GulfQuest memberships. To register for Race to the River, visit www.gulfquest.org. Race applications are also available at McCoy Outdoor, Run-N-Tri or Fleet Feet in Mobile, Running Wild in Fairhope, and at GulfQuest. For info email mbeasley@gulfquest.org, or call 251-202-6306. Market on the Square See May 21 for more information.

Thursday, June 23

Distinguished Young Women Finals In the largest and oldest scholarship program for high school girls, delegates from each state compete in academic achievement, physical fitness, onstage performance and communication. The dates of National Finals 2016 are June 23-25: 1st Preliminaries: Thursday June 23, 2nd Preliminaries: Friday, June 24, and Finals Night: Saturday, June 25. Please visit distinguishedyw.org for more information. Culture Kitchen – Mobile Museum of Art Local celebrity, Donnie Barrett, is known for his tea parties. In the midst of the active schedule he keeps as director of the Fairhope Museum of History, he has cultivated a reputation as this area’s own mad hatter of sorts. Witness the nuance and delicacy of tea-drinking for yourself at the Culture Kitchen. 6:00 p.m. at Mobile Museum of Art (4850 Museum Drive) cost - $15. Please visit www.mobilemuseumofart.com for more information. Market on the Hill See May 26 for more information. Kids Days in Bienville Square See June 9 for more information.

Friday, June 24

Distinguished Young Women Finals See June 23 for more information. “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” See June 10 for more information.

Saturday, June 25 Market on the Square See May 21 for more information.

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Family Calendar Distinguished Young Women Finals See June 23 for more information. “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” See June 10 for more information.

Sunday, June 26

May/June2016

Mobile Ballet For information about performances call (251) 3422241 or visit www.mobileballet.com. Mobile International Speedway Irvington. For information call (251) 957-2026. www.mobilespeedway.com.

Mobile Museum of Art – Summer Film Series See June 5 for more information.

Mobile Opera Mobile. For information call (251) 476-7372. www.mobileopera.org.

“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” See June 10 for more information.

Mobile Symphony Mobile. For information call (251) 432-2010. www.mobilesymphony.org.

Wednesday, June 29

Oakleigh Museum House Mobile. For information call (251) 432-1281. www.historicmobile.org.

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home See June 1 for more information.

Thursday, June 30

Richards-Dar House Museum Mobile. For information call (251) 208-7320.

Market on the Hill See May 26 for more information.

USS Alabama Battleship 2703 Battles Parkway, Mobile. (251) 433-2703. www.ussalabama.com.

Kids Days in Bienville Square See June 9 for more information.

VSA Arts & Easter Festival Mobile. For information call (251) 343-0958.

Ongoing

Classes/Meetings

Civil War Fort Gaines Historic Site, Dauphin Island. For more info call (251) 861-6992. www.dauphinisland.org. Concerts in the Park Sponsored by Mobile Pops Band. For more info call (251) 679-4876. www.mobilepopsband.com. Fort Conde Welcome Center Sponsored by Mobile Convention & Visitors Corp. Mobile. For more info call (251) 208-7658. www.mobile.org. Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center Government St. Mon. - Fri. 9 - 5; Sat. 10 - 5; Sun. noon - 5. Adults (19 - 59)/ $14; youth (13 - 18) & senior citizens (60+)/ $12.50; children/ $12; Combo tickets include a viewing of an IMAX film: $18; $17; $15.50. HandsOn South Alabama (Formerly Volunteer Mobile, Inc.) For information on Local Volunteer Opportunities, contact 251-433-4456, www.handsonsal.org. Joe Jefferson Players Mobile. For information call (251) 471-1534. www.jjp.com. LODA Artwalk Second Fridays in Downtown – LoDa Arts District. Exhibitions (with receptions) and entertainment in a variety of downtown galleries and other venues. City of Mobile Neighborhood and Community Services. 6 - 9 p.m. Check NCS website for complete list of activities/map after noon the day of the event. For more information, please contact: 251-208-7443 or visit www.ncsmobile.org. Medicare Mondays Come by the Viva Medicare Cafe’ any Monday at 9 am if you or a friend have any questions about what Medicare is and how it can work for you. We always have a licensed agent on duty. This event is free and open to people ages 65 and older. The Viva Medicare Cafe’ is located at 3071 Dauphin Street, Mobile. For more information visit www.vivamedicarecafes.com/ Mobile or call 380-2222.

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

*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. and the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.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. Mobile Bay Area La Leche League Meetings are the second Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. The number to call for the location is 251689-2085. We can also be found on Facebook at mobile bay area la leche league. Survivors of Suicide Support Group Meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m.

Azalea City Harmony Chorus of Sweet Adelines Meets/rehearses each Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Mobile Christian School, The Leopard’s Den. For more info call 251-380-0579 or visit www.azaleacityharmony.com. Circle Of Hope, Sexual Assault Support Group Group meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Call Lifelines Counseling Services to schedule a 30 minute appointment before attending the group 251-431-5100. COH is a support group for victims of sexual violence to share in their struggles and learn ways to begin to cope with the pain and daily stressors that trigger the hurt. This group is free to attend. Call for times and locations. The Family Center The Family Center’s classes in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH minimum 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, 9:30-11:30 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.

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APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Regency Church of Christ, 501 S. University Blvd., Mobile. 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 * 1-800489-1886 * 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.

– 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 the childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000. • Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings for families and caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Meets every second Thursday of every month. E.A. Roberts Alzheimer’s Center, 169 Mobile Infirmary Blvd. Preregistration Not required. Free. Call 251-435-6950 for information. 10-11 a.m. • Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Pre-registration is required; call 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. • Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Gastric Bypass Support Meets every 2nd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including

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Family Calendar

natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia. Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care. A maternity tour is included.

Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital is pleased to offer a variety of classes on childbirth issues. All classes are located in Conference Room I (located just inside the main lobby doors of the hospital beside the Gift Shop) unless otherwise specified. To register for classes or for more information, you may call 639-2938 to speak with our Childbirth Educator, Kathy Wade RN, or email kwade@providencehospital.org. For Daytime Breastfeeding classes only, you may call Marcia Ranew RN, our Lactation Consultant at 633-1749 or email mranew@providencehospital.org.

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Support Groups • Providence Hospital Breast “Friends” Meets the second Friday of every month at noon in the Moore Conference Room. The Moore Conference Room is located in the cafeteria. Call Robi Jones for more information, 251-639-2852. • Diabetes Support Group Classes meet in the Diabetes Center, Suite D-436 in the Providence Medical Office Plaza. Call 251-633-1987 for more information. 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

May/June2016

back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation Classes Four consecutive Mondays (6:30-9 p.m.) at The Family Center. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units. Cost: $25 if delivering at Springhill Hospital.  Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation: Accelerated Course  One Saturday per month. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The Family Center. Ideal for those who live out of town or will be delivering soon.  $25. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings Noon on the First Sunday of the month. Join us for an individualized tour and instruction for siblings ages 9 and younger. The event includes a tour of the maternity areas and tips on helping parents with the new baby. Parents must remain with their children.  By Appointment ONLY. Call 340-7769 to schedule an appointment. • 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 3407769 early to pre-register. • NAMI Mobile Support Group A support group for family members of those who suffer from mental illness. Meetings are held the third Monday of every month. For more information: Diane Kent at 5918021. 6-7 p.m., Spring Hill Baptist Church Activity Center. • 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.

Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1069. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Advanced payment required to secure your reservation. If you are expecting multiples or having a c-section, please call for additional class information. • Preparing for Childbirth All-day Saturday class for the expectant mother and her support person (coach). Topics include: pregnancy changes, labor, role of the support coach, relaxation and breathing techniques, vaginal and cesarean births, postpartum care, and a tour of the maternity areas. Fee per couple: $30. You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Every other month, 9-2. • Childbirth in a Nutshell This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets first Tuesday every other month from 6:30-9 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Fee per couple: $15. • Breastfeeding This one-night class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Topics include advantages, myths and facts, getting started, correct positioning, latching on, engorgement, returning to work and problem-solving. Class meets second Thursday from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital Fee: $5. Registration Information: Credit card payments are accepted by calling 415-1685. Mail payments for classes to: University of South Alabama, Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Education Department, 1700 Center St., Mobile, AL 36604.

USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh

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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Captain America:

The Angry Birds Movie MPAA Rating: PG Overall: C+ Violence: C+ Sexual Content: B+ Language: BAlcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated The Angry Birds Movie PG for rude humor and action. Undoubtedly you’ve heard of the Angry Birds that roost within millions of smartphones worldwide. The game has managed to attract broad demographic appeal -- in fact watching his 85-year-old mother play the game on her iPad is what led executive producer David Maisel to approach the creators of these bombastic birds and talk about making a movie. So what will take place during our 97-minute peek into the life of the Angry Birds? Pretty much what you’d expect -- birds bombing pigs (in case you aren’t aware, green pigs are the birds’ adversary) and destroying structures while trying to avoid crates of TNT. And there is an ever-so-thin storyline that leaves you wondering if there’s a deeper message to this movie or if you’re just hallucinating on too much green soda. Red (voice of Jason Sudeikis) is the iconic main character of the game and the movie. He, along with all the other birds in this universe, inhabit one happy little island. But he is not happy. The invented backstory depicts Red as an abandoned, bullied child who was mercilessly teased for having big, bushy eyebrows. Now he has a permanently negative disposition and the more time he spends amongst the cacophony of life surrounding him, the angrier he gets. Not surprisingly, his job as a cake delivering birthday clown doesn’t suit him well. When he has an angry meltdown and smashes a cake into a client’s face he ends up in an ager management with a flock of other angry birds. Sitting in the therapy circle are more characters that will be familiar to game players: The speedy yellow duck-like Chuck, the can’t-help-himselffrom-blowing-up Bomb and the huge, glowering Terence. Leading these fowl offenders toward a more controlled emotional future is Matilda (voice of Maya Rudolph) a sophisticated bird with a penchant for yoga. As expected, Red isn’t doing well with in class and when a strange ship captained by a green pig (voice of Bill Hader) appears on the island’s shore Red refuses to join the other birds’ welcoming overture. If you play the game, you’ll immediately recognize that these swine are trouble and they will be the target of all the birds’ anger by the end of the game… er… movie. It’s the movie message that may leave parents wondering what to think. You, or your kids, may have used these birds to bomb those green pigs in the past and if so you know the villans’ motive is to steal the birds’ eggs and eat them for breakfast. It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt, and when the scenario is put into a story arc the implied pro-violence theme seem more overt. Perhaps you’ll be pleased to see a film that doesn’t shun anger but instead teaches that frustration is an emotion that, if directed appropriately, can motivate us to fight for important goals -- in this case the lives of the birds’ children. Or you may instead be troubled by a xenophobic overtone of a story that teaches children to reject anyone who appears in your world that doesn’t look and act like you. Or you may simply wish you would have saved your movie dollars for something else.

Civil War

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: D+ Sexual Content: A Language: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated Captain America: Civil War PG-13 for extended sequences of violence, action and mayhem. I’ve been watching superhero movies for over two decades and have often wondered who paid for the massive collateral damages after the good guys annihilate the bad guy. Not only is there incredible destruction of property, there is also the loss of so many innocent lives. Now that very question is being asked by the United Nations after an Avengers’ operation in Lagos, Nigeria goes awry and leaves buildings destroyed and many people dead. This “final straw” leads to the development of the Sokovia Accord, a document that places The Avengers under the oversight of an international governing body. Not surprisingly, some of the members of the fighting force disagree with the notion of having to work within government and agendas. Steve Rogers aka Captain America (Chris Evans) is primary amongst this group. However, Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) is still reeling with guilt after his Siri-gone-wrong Ultron experiment led to the destruction of Sokovia. And that motivates the Iron Man to support the proposal and try to convince the others to follow his lead. These political differences further grow after a prominent political leader is killed in a terrorist blast where the chief suspect turns out to be an old friend of Steve Rogers. Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) was Rogers’ WWII buddy until he was captured and became a victim of a Soviet-era mind control experiment. Nevertheless, he saved the Captain’s life in the last movie and now Rogers is convinced Barnes is once again, being used as a pawn. But Tony Stark isn’t buying any of it. He wants Rogers, and the other team members supporting him, put in jail after they thwart a police attempt to capture Barnes. This disagreement eventually leads to the ultimate superhero showdown on the tarmac of a German airport. A dozen Avengers, split evenly with six on each side, duke it out in a fight that will have fans forgetting they ever wanted popcorn. All that fighting will also be the primary reason some parents may want to put the brakes on young kids seeing this movie. And you’ll hear a few scatological expletives and other profanities as well. Ironically, this story about placing responsibility on these enhanced humans for their reckless destruction of property and life is full of scenes featuring reckless destruction of property and life. These concerns aside, my sarcasm shouldn’t be taken to mean this film is a total waste of time. If you’re a Marvel fan, you’ve probably already bought into the first few movies and this one will satisfy.

What Parents need to know about Captain America: Civil War...

Violence: Violence is pervasive in this film which depicts characters fighting with hands/fists, weapons (such as guns, knives, arrows, claws and a boomerang-like shield), and super-human powers. Characters are shot, beaten, crushed, electrocuted, dismembered, fall from heights and blown up in explosions. Blood, bruises and grotesque injuries are shown. Characters are tortured, one with the treat of drowning – and death is implied. Characters experience pain (moaning and screaming heard) when they are given experimental drugs. Sexual Content: A couple kisses. A man and woman quickly move away from one another when a teen boy walks into the room: the man later makes remarks to the boy about how attractive the woman is. Language: The script includes infrequent moderate profanities, frequent mild curses, some terms of deity used as expletives and rude slang. Alcohol / Drug Use: Experimental medicine is administered to people in a lab.

What Parents need to know about The Angry Birds Movie...

Violence: Frequent slapstick antics are presented in a comedic context. Other non-graphic violent depictions include explosions, law-breaking, lying, betrayal, robbery, acts of revenge and self defense. Some deaths are implied. Sexual Content: Sexual innuendo and slang terms for body parts are often used. Potty humor and crude bodily functions (such as urinating) are depicted. Language: Mild profanity and terms of deity are used infrequently. Some near–swear words are heard, along with name-calling and slurs. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters drink what may be alcohol at a bar. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2016

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