Mobile Bay Parents March 2018 by KeepSharing

March 10, 2018 · 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Hank aaron stadium $20 per car Food trucks on site A family-friendly event that offers children a hands-on opportunity to explore a variety of trucks and meet the people who build, protect and serve our community. Children will be allowed to touch, climb aboard and ask questions about their favorite trucks in a safe environment. Presented by Caribe Resort & FOX10 Benefits pediatric cancer research at USA Mitchell Cancer Institute, and Adoption Rocks *Noise-free hour – no sirens, lights or horns – from 10-11 a.m.

March2018

Volume 7 Number 12

Columns

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Mom of the Month 4

Living With Children John Rosemond

10 Benefits of Summer Camps

The gift of sending kids off to camp pays dividends for years.

Choosing the Right Day Camp

Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Getting Ready for Camp: Good Hygiene Summer camp can be a child’s first long stretch away from home– and many times, their first taste of independence. Of course, camp counselors and staff do a great job ensuring a safe, clean environment for kids. But when a child is trying to pack as much fun into each day as possible, the first thing to suffer can be personal hygiene. When preparing your child for summer camp, how can you stress cleanliness to your kids– while understanding that they want to spend their time enjoying all the camps have to offer? Before camp starts, try to focus on teaching your child how to take short, efficient showers. Hot water can be limited, so children usually cut corners to get out of the shower sooner. It is still important to bathe every part of the body each day if possible. Teaching your child to multi-task– letting water rinse shampoo off while washing your face, etc.– might alleviate some stress at camp. Skin infections are one common medical problem that arise from poor hygiene.

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

Good scrubbing in the shower will hopefully prevent skin infections, but oftentimes these occur after itchy bug bites are scratched and leave the skin open for bacteria to come inside. So make sure you pack plenty of bug spray to try and prevent bug bites from occurring, and make sure your child checks regularly for any new bug bites and to see if they are getting larger, more red, more painful, or if they are draining discolored liquid. It is so important to stress daily (twice a day if you are really lucky) teeth brushing. It is so common for kids to cut corners on teeth brushing while away, and the mouth is full of bacteria that love to get under the teeth and in the gums. Tell your child to let an adult know if her mouth or tooth is starting to hurt, because sometimes these infections begin and worsen within 24 hours. Sometimes, if the infection enlarges too much in the gums, it can require surgical drainage. So keep the mouth healthy by practicing, and stressing, 2-minute good teeth brushing twice a day

at home and not cutting those corners while she is away at camp. Good preparation at home now, months in advance, will help your child when they gain some independence away from home. It is also good to make sure you are preparing your child for a fun, healthy time away in what you pack in their bag. Deodorant, face wash, hand sanitizer, fluoride toothpaste, bug spray, sunscreen, and floss should all be added in addition to your soap and shampoo. Hopefully this will lead to a stressfree, fun-filled time at camp, and you will have a healthy, happy child returned to you at the end! Jennifer Adair, M.D., was born and raised in Mobile. She joined Children’s Medical Group in July 2013 and currently practices at their Airport office. Jennifer and her husband, Cory, reside in Mobile with their son, Finn, and their three dogs, Barkley, Fitz, and Roo.

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Easter at Seward Farms Saturday March 24th 10 am—3 pm Come to the Farm for a fun unique egg hunting experience!

Easter Bunny arrives at 11 AM!

Egg Hunt (ages 1-10)

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Egg Hunts will be staggered so you can

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enjoy your kids egg hunts.

Hayrides, Cowtrain Rides, Jumping Pillow, Yee Haw Slide, Baby Animal petting area, Face Painting, Funny Farm Golf, Pony Rides, Wagon Wheel Café open and much more…

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Autauga County Schools

Hutchens Students Create Valentine Cards for Veterans

The students at Hutchens Elementary School created Valentine’s Day cards for the Veterans at the WF Green Veterans Home. The students wanted to let the Veterans know that they are loved and wanted to make their day brighter.

Alabama School of Math Middle School Hackathon Davidson High School Reflections Winners

The Davidson PTSA honored our 2017 - 2018 Reflections Winners at the Spring Open House. Winners included Maria Moxey (Choreography); Joshua West (Film); Brandon Pham, Lequinn Petway, Lilith Moore (Literature); Nandita Dey (Music Composition); Maitland Thull, Charles Germany (Photography); Tanvi Bhadkamkar, Lauren Aomo, Audrey Brown (Visual Arts); and James Gandy, Caidlea Inman, and Loren Lewis (Literature Honorable Mention). Congratulations to these students and thanks to all who participated!

The ASMS Hackathon is being held March 17 from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. This event is a free coding competition hosted by the Alabama School of Math and Science in Mobile for beginner and experienced programmers. Alabama middle schoolers (6th-8th graders) are invited to compete for prizes and learn while having fun. Register online at www.asms.net.

Please email School News and Photos to Lynn@ mobilebayparents.com by the 7th of the month.

Collier Elementary Participates in the Great Kindness Challenge

Collier students and teachers participated in the Great Kindness Challenge in January. The week started with students meeting “Captain Kindness” as she spread kindness around the school like confetti! Students were given a Kindness Checklist and were asked to complete acts of kindness at school, home, and in their community. As the week continued, students expressed their gratitude to heroes within our school by creating signs and cards, and to heroes in American history by donating to the Liberty’s Legacy Project and by wearing red, white and blue. The week culminated with students bringing in snacks to create Gratitude Baskets that were delivered to the heroes in our community. We hope our students continue the Great Kindness Challenge by being a “kindness hero” every single day! Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

MCPSS to Host First AP Competition

MCPSS will host its first Advanced Placement (AP) Competition on Tuesday, March 27 at 10:00 a.m. at Blount High School. This initiative is being implemented to help prepare students for the upcoming Advanced Placement exam and to improve upon the success that the district has been known for in previous years. This year’s competition is being held between Blount, LeFlore, Rain, Vigor and Williamson schools. www.mobilebayparents.com

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Mary G. Montgomery Offers New Professional Health Services Academy

The healthcare industry includes many of the most in-demand jobs in the American marketplace right now. It is with an eye on this trend that Mary G. Montgomery High School has made changes in its Signature Academy program. The school’s new Professional Health Services academy offers pathways in Biomedical Sciences and Sports Medicine. Mary G. Montgomery Academy Specialist Terra Price says the curriculum and hands-on training offered in either pathway are broad enough to be of value to students planning to enter any healthcare field after graduation. Signature Academies are small learning communities focused on specific career fields within each of Mobile County Public Schools’ 12 high schools. They are each partnered with local businesses, industries, colleges and governmental entities that serve as mentors and sources of practical information and training about those chosen fields. MCPSS students from throughout the county can apply and transfer to any Signature Academy that addresses their interests. For more information, visit the Signature Academies page at mcpss.com.

Murphy High School: Tradition Redefined

Murphy High School is proud to introduce six new academies for the 2018-2019 school year. In August, Murphy High School will offer students an opportunity to enroll in a college of their choice and obtain college credit during their four years at MHS. With this new approach to the career academies, students will begin to experience the college and career-ready atmosphere early in their academic career. Students will be given the choice of six colleges: the College of Global Studies featuring International Baccalaureate and International Commerce, Early College Preparatory featuring the University of Alabama, the College of Fine Arts, the College of Culinary Arts, the College of Dual Enrollment featuring STEM and Health Services, and the Military Leadership Academy. All programs are geared to increase rigor and readiness for all students by revamping the traditional classroom experience. It is Murphy High School’s mission to redefine tradition and academics one student at a time. In order to see the great things happening at Murphy, check out www.murphyhigh.com.

WHO ARE WE? WE ARE MCT Visit us at our booth at the Summer Camp Expo on March 10th. Accepting Applications for 2018-2019 www.mcgill-toolen.org

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Faith Academy AISA Spelling Bee Winners

Autauga County Schools

Faith Academy was well represented at the AISA Spelling Bee! Fifth grader Whitley Burns won first in her grade level and will go on to compete at state. Students are pictured left to right. DeAsia Jones placed 2nd for 6th grade, Caleb Hosey placed 2nd for 7th grade, Whitley Burns placed 1st for 5th grade and will be representing Faith at the AISA state competition, Joshua LaRoux placed 3rd for 8th grade, and Izzy Sands placed 4th for 4th grade.

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

St. Luke’s Football Player Named Class 2A Back of the Year

Class 2A Back of the Year, Jermaine Brown poses with AHSADCA Director Alvin Briggs during the Alabama Sports Writers Association Mr. Football Banquet in Montgomery on January 30. St. Luke's is so proud to be represented by this amazing young man.

St. Dominic Celebrates Vocations Day

St. Dominic Catholic School celebrated Vocations Day. The celebration includes hands-on activities, artwork created by students, the Vocation Cup and literature and a visit from the Archdiocese. The hands-on activities included "A Good Habit to Keep", "Time of Reflection" and "Imagine the Possibility". Here Elle Barber participates in the “Time of Reflection” station.

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Action at Little Flower P.E.

St Vincent de Paul Presents Print to Our Savior Catholic Church

There is very little down time during P.E. at Little Flower Catholic School. With basketball season in full swing, the students have frequent opportunities to hone their skills on the court, with instruction by P.E. teacher, Brandi Lindsey. Speed and action are coupled with efforts at perfection at the net during the fast-paced drills.

Students Malcolm Howard, Autumn Maghupoy, Sofia Maghupoy, and Amelia Tunstall along with Principal Corinne Cuffle were excited to present Father Tokarz at Our Savior Catholic Church a print of St. Vincent de Paul. Our Savior gave the students a home after a fire in December left their school building damaged. This print, which was donated by Roxann Dyess, was just a small token of their appreciation. Thank you, Our Savior, for your generosity!

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Corpus Christi Hosts Theodore HS Special Olympics Basketball Match-up

During Catholic Schools Week, every year Corpus Christi Catholic School hosts the Theodore High School Special Olympics basketball team for a matchup with the eighth graders. It’s the one day of the year when Corpus Christi Cougars become Theodore Bobcats, cheering them on to victory! This year, the students from Theodore stayed for lunch so they could have more time to visit with the Corpus Christi students.

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Autauga County Schools St. Pius X Gets Visit from

CHCA Middle School Students Tour Washington D.C.

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Middle school students toured Washington D.C. and had the privilege of attending and being part of a WreathLaying Ceremony that was held at Arlington National Cemetery. CHCA seventh graders Kylie Lindsey, Isabella Griggs, Jacob Boater, and Davis Tharp were honored to be a part of the ceremony on January 31. To determine the four students that would represent CHCA, a local essay contest on sacrifice was held. The ceremony was truly a great opportunity for our students and a wonderful teaching moment about service and sacrifice. The students also visited the White House, the Museum of the Bible, Mount Vernon, the Library of Congress, and other monuments. We are thankful to be Americans and Cottage Hill Warriors.

Senior Bowl Players

On Friday, January 25, Senior Bowl players Sahquem Griffin (UFC), Deon Yelder (Western Kentucky), and Kyle Fitts (Utah) dropped by St. Pius X to visit with students. The senior players spoke at a school assembly encouraging students to work hard at school and in pursuing their dreams. After a question and answer period the players visited each homeroom for a meet and greet and to sign autographs. Pictured here are some of Mrs. McLean's third graders with the three football players.

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

Faith Academy Cheerleaders Perform at Alabama School Choice Rally

National School Choice Week was founded in 2011 to promote the concept of all forms of school choice: district schools; district magnet schools; charter schools; private schools; and home schooling. The week of events is scheduled the last week of January each year. Faith Academy Varsity Cheerleaders and the dance team were honored to be chosen to perform at the Alabama School Choice Rally in Montgomery this year. Faith SGA officers also attended the rally to show our support. #schoolchoice

Mary G. Montgomery All-State Band Members

Congratulations to Chris Hamm, Sarah Schultz, Haley Mill, Evan Murphy, Fernando Duron, and Paul Bell for making Alabama All-State band. Pictured, Mr. Knauss, Chris Hamm, Sarah Schultz, Haley Mill, Evan Murphy, Fernando Duron, Paul Bell, Mr. Bennett. Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

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Successful Season for Mobile Christian Indoor Track and Field Team

St. Mary Advocates for Right to Life

St. Mary Catholic School students joined thousands of other young adults throughout the country January 19, advocating for the right to life. Students marched throughout campus, prayed the rosary in a life chain around the playground, and concluded with pro-life speaker, Sean Dudley. The event was held at 1 p.m. in observance of the National March for Life in Washington D.C.

Congratulations to the Mobile Christian Indoor Track and Field Team! They were Runners Up in the 1A-3A State Championship and 1A-3A State Champs in Shot Put, Triple Jump, and the 400 Meter Run. They also had several 2nd and 3rd place winners, 4 top 10 national rankings for grade level, along with 7 school records and numerous PRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. We are very proud of these young people and their coaches!

Twelve of Dunbar Magnetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dance Students Made the Cut for Honor Dance 2018

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Autauga County Schools

Black History at Revelation Christian School

For the month of February, Revelation Christian School invited several members from the local community to come and share their experiences about Black History. We would like to thank Ms. Lula Henderson for sharing a wealth of knowledge about the obstacles she overcame in becoming a registered nurse in 1955. We salute you Ms. Henderson!

Prichard Prep SGA Conducts Sock Drive

Prichard Prep Student Government Association collected socks for children and the elderly. Ms. Curd, SGA Sponsor, helped the students identify two very worthy organizations to give the donations - Family Haven at The Salvation Army and Wings of Life. Pictured are SGA Officers: (l to r): Elijah Agee, Jaylen Lett, Brooklyn Bracy, Angel Niles, and Roderick Belton.

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Two UMS-Wright Athletes Sign on National Signing Day

Two UMS-Wright students were recognized at a special ceremony on National Signing Day, February 7th. We are so proud of the following athletes who received scholarships to play their sport of choice at the collegiate level: Sarah Pehler – Volleyball – Millsaps College, Lynn Gardner – Softball – Mercer University.

Griggs Elementary Spelling Bee Winner

Congratulations to James Barbour, a third grader at W.C. Griggs Elementary School, who won the school-wide spelling bee. He competed with other third, fourth, and fifth graders. He will go on to represent W.C. Griggs Elementary in the Mobile County Public School System Spelling Bee.

Collier Elementary Reading Series Program

Collier Elementary is implementing a Series Reading program, where students can earn Brag Tags for reading and taking AR tests on books in a chosen series. The program has created much enthusiasm about reading. Pictured here is Liam Ramsay (2nd grade), Anna Stockert (2nd grade), and Isaac Rogers (3rd grade).

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Autauga County Schools

Phillips Prep Students Volunteer at Child Advocacy Center

Phillips students reorganized all of the toys that were donated to the CAC. Kids who come there for services as well as foster parents can come and pick out some toys for the kids to keep. PPS students go several times a year to help keep it all neat and organized. Left to right: Jermiya Robinson, Jazmyn Bettis, Ms. Goodson, Ms. Herren, Triston Buckley, and Davis Beasley.

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Please email School News and Photos to Lynn@ mobilebayparents.com by the 7th of the month.

Williamson Prep Middle School 1A Basketball Champions

Congratulations to Williamson Preparatory Academy Boys Basketball Team for winning the 1A Middle School Basketball championship.

Davidson Participates in National Engineers Week

Students in Davidson’s EPIC (Engineering Pathways Integrated Curriculum) recently participated in National Engineers Week (E-Week). A variety of activities took place celebrating this week. Female students heard from Denise King of Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood Engineering as part of a “Women in Engineering” symposium; a keynote was presented to all students by Keith Jones, President/Owner of Prism Systems. Students also participated in a field day where they split into teams to complete a challenge. This year’s challenge was to design a circuit system that acts as an alarm if the box is opened. The teams then had the afternoon to attempt to hack into other teams’ boxes. The goal of EPIC is to offer students the opportunity to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. 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 United States. Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

Corpus Christi Honors Distinguished Grad and Outstanding Business Partner As part of Corpus Christi Catholic School’s celebration of Catholic Schools Week, they honor their Distinguished Graduate and recognize their Outstanding Business

Partner. Congratulations to Erin Grip Brown, Corpus Christi class of 1995, who is this year's honoree of the Distinguished Graduate Award! She continues to live the values that she learned as a student at Corpus Christi. The Outstanding Business Partner for 2018 is Kendal Jempson, Graphic Designer. Mrs. Jempson created the school’s new logo as well as designing their advertising and recruitment materials. 22

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Robert E. Lee Elementary Students Place 2nd at Alabama Regional Future City Competition

A team of Robert E. Lee sixth grade students spent the first semester designing and building a city of the future, enabling them to enter the Alabama Regional Future City Competition. The team completed five deliverables: a virtual city design (using SimCity); a 1,500-work city essay; a scale model; a project plan; and a presentation to judges. This year’s theme was The Age-Friendly City. The team identified an age-related challenge that exists in today’s urban environments and engineered two innovative solutions that would allow their future city’s senior citizens to be as active and independent as they would want to be. During their planning, the team considered conceptualizing accessible and safe transportation options, barrierfree access to buildings and infrastructure, appropriate social welfare programs, and open access to health care support and services. Robert E. Lee’s Team, Tranquoros, consisted of eight students that performed exceptionally well at the statewide competition held in Huntsville on January 13. The team placed second overall and brought home three special awards including the “Energy Efficiency Award” presented by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), the “Best Use of Robotics and Unmanned Systems Award” presented by the Association of Unmanned Systems International (AUVSI), and the “Most Creative Use of City Planning” presented by the Alabama Society of Professional Land Surveyors (ASPLS).

Faith Academy Scholars Bowl Team Wins First Place in AISA Competition

Faith Academy Middle School Scholars bowl team competed in the AISA state competition. The team finished in First place! Way to go RAMS! #statechamps. Pictured (left to right) is Bradley Zinck, Kara Kelsoe, Vincent Nguyen, Mrs. Cindy Bostick, Sam Ward, Ryan Piggot, and Lucas Caldwell.

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Autauga County Schools

Four Mobile Schools Received Samsung Tablets with Speakaboos Literacy App

Kindergartners, pre-K students and some first graders at four Mobile County Public Schools have a new literacy tool this semester, thanks to the University of Southern Mississippi. Dr. Julie Cwikla (pictured at left), USM’s Director of Creativity & Innovation in STEM, secured a three-year, $900,000 grant from the Kellogg Foundation to provide more than 700 Samsung tablets loaded with the Speakaboos literacy app to students at Maryvale, Morningside and O’Rourke elementary schools and the Just 4 Developmental Laboratory. The Speakaboos app features almost 300 e-stories that students can read or have read to them, depending on their level of development. It also includes math and science lessons, as Cwikla has worked with Speakaboos to develop new math e-stories. “Literacy and early math skills are just critical. If we can catch kids at this age, we’re really going to give them a boost going forward,” Cwikla said. She added that USM plans to monitor students’ progress over the three-year length of the program to gauge the effectiveness of the app as it relates to literacy.

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St. Paul’s Student Honored by Daughters of American Revolution

Congratulations to Anna Weber for being selected to represent St. Paul’s as the 2017-18 Daughters of American Revolution Good Citizen. Anna also was the essay winner for the D’Iberville Chapter DAR Good Citizen!

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E.R. Dickson Elementary School Teacher of the Year

Jennifer Stasiak relocated to Mobile from Three Rivers, Ml to attend the University of South Alabama as an undergraduate student pursuing teacher certification. After graduating college, Jennifer began her full-time teaching career for the Mobile County Public School System as a fourth grade teacher, while pursuing her Master's Degree in education. Presently, Jennifer is a fifth grade English Language Arts teacher, who is trained in Quality Questioning, Comprehension Toolkit, Locating and Correcting Reading Difficulties, Talents Unlimited, and Digital Literacy. She is an avid Discovery Education Board Builder as she creates exciting innovative lessons for her students. Jennifer continues to develop innovative lessons through interdisciplinary incorporation, technology, Talents Unlimited, and the Ron Clark Academy tenets. She uses a multitude of ways to motivate her students and strives for student success. Jennifer always goes beyond the rest when asked to fulfill any task. She has presented professional development to her colleagues as well as presented at the Alabama Reading Association Conference. ·Teaching has always been her passion and she will continue to advocate for children of all ages.

Senior Bowl Players Visit Dodge Elementary Senior Bowl players visited Dodge Elementary School to encourage students to work hard in school and stay focused on getting a quality education. Pictured L to R: Wyatt Taylor from Virginia Tech, JK Scott from University of Alabama, Austin Corbett from University of Nevada.

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Autauga County Schools

Little Flower Catholic School Students Learn Life Skills

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Representatives of the Mobile Educators Credit Union and the Southeastern Credit Union Foundation led a financial skills lesson with students at Little Flower Catholic School. The students participated in role playing by selecting housing, transportation, food, etc., while creating and following a realistic budget. The students made payments on any debts they owed and made decisions on how much to save. Educating the whole person with practical life lessons is a goal of a well-rounded education at Little Flower School.

CHCA Inducts New NHS Members The induction ceremony for new members of the CHCA National Honor Society was held on January 24 at the Cottage Hill Christian Academy West Campus. Sixteen new members were inducted in the National Honor Society. The new inductees are as follows: James Sherrod, Carleigh White, Eliza Carpenter, Hannah Barbour, Elizabeth Bryson, Anne Morgan Swearingen, Allison Boudreaux, Rasean Thomas, Khaliel Perkins, Mya Nichols, Katelyn Johnson, Ryan Maples, Joyce Renauld, Alison Lindsey, Morgan Capps, and William Barbour. Parents, relatives, and current NHS members celebrated the accomplishments of the newly inducted members. A reception for the inductees and their families followed in the Atrium.

St. Dominic Geography Bee Winner

Griggs County PTA Reflections Winners

Azalea Trail Maid in the Making at St Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s!

The creative process begins with metal hoops, fabric, hat form and umbrella. In three more months Alli will be dressed in her full lavender antebellum dress. Congratulations Alli, another beautiful and bright young lady, representing St. Luke's Episcopal School. Alli is a true role model for all young girls!

St. Dominic Catholic School students in Grades 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8 recently participated in the Geography Bee. Congratulations to Simms Stokes, pictured with Mrs. Michener, Principal, who placed first. He will soon take a written test in hopes of qualifying for the State competition.

Congratulations to these Griggs Shining Stars! They won County PTA Reflections awards in their categories. Max Norris, Garrett Bolton, Izzy DeGregorio, Jason Davis, Riley Courtney, Kaitlyn Sauce, Lilly Grace Bolton, Lallie Hays, Lillian Strange, Daisy Taylor, Lilly McLester. Also Pictured: Mrs. Hittson, Principal at Griggs and Mrs. Peek, MCPSS Superintendent. Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

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100th Day at St. Dominic

St. Dominic Catholic School Kindergartners left class one afternoon only to return a little older the next morning. In celebration of the 100th day of school, students and teachers dressed as if they were 100 years old. Olivia McLemore, Lilia Smith, and Alex McGill show us what they may look like at 100 years old.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

MGM Competes in American Legion Oratorical

On Saturday, January 27, MGM junior Mason O’Rourke competed in the American Legion Oratorical. After delivering his prepared oratorical entitled “The Golden Springs of Liberty” and the shorter assigned topic speech, Mason walked away with the title of Mobile County American Legion Oratorical winner. He earned a $300 scholarship and advanced to the District competition, which will take place in Baldwin County on February 18. Good luck, Mason. Pictured, Mason O’Rourke is congratulated by American Legion member Norman James.

Tuesday Nights Kids Eat Free!

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Autauga County Schools

Semmes FFA Lends a Hand to Augusta Evans

The Semmes FFA chapter recently took a field trip to Augusta Evans School. FFA Members assisted in detangling, sorting, tagging, and bagging Mardi Gras beads which will be sold to raise funds for the school. From the greenhouses to the sorting room, Semmes FFA enjoys assisting in their community. Pictured, Back row: Seth Switzer, Brian Nelson, Josh Degeyter, Ken Hearn (sponsor). Middle row: Elizabeth Busby, Laken Carr, Katherine Berryhill. Seated: MaKayla Dees, Kelsey Sparks, Ashley Hudson.

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

Denton Magnet Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s It Starts with Us Finalist

Darrell Ethan Farish was chosen as Denton Magnet School of Technology's 2017-2018 It Starts With Us finalist. Ethan is an Honor Roll student and is also active in organizations in the school and in his community. His accolades include: Student Council Secretary, Best Robotics team member, a member of the Technology Student Association, and a member of both the Admiral football and soccer teams. He has received recognition at the Coastal Alabama Community College Computer Fair, the Challenging Tech State Competition, and the Vex Robotics State Competition. Congratulations Ethan!

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Police Officer Visits Mobile Christian Second Graders

To culminate our study of local and state governments, we invited Officer John Spottswood to speak to our Mobile Christian second graders. He explained the process of law enforcement, shared some memorable experiences, and showed some of his equipment to the students. The highlight of Officer Spottswoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s presentation was when he and his son, Ethan, demonstrated the handcuffing procedure. The students also really enjoyed wearing the police hats and badges at the close of his speech.

St. Luke Featured on Cool School Program on WPMI

WPMI visited the Japonica Campus and the University Campus of St. Luke's Episcopal school in January and filmed the "Cool Schools" segment featuring St. Luke's learning programs, teachers and a parent testimony. Be sure to check out the Cool School segments on WPMI NBC 15 News!

Corpus Christi Catholic School Geography Bee

Congratulations to Corpus Christi Catholic School student, Isabela Flores, for winning the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Geography Bee! She will take a paper exam to qualify for the state Geography Bee that takes place in April.

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Autauga County Schools

Davidson Inducts Newest Members of NHS

Congratulations to the newest inductees of the Davidson High School National Honor Society! We thank these students for their commitment to success and also thank the teachers for their work with this group.

Please email School News and Photos to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 7th of the month.

Crewe de la Cardinal Parade at St. Pius X

St. Pius X School held its annual Crew de la Cardinal Mardi Gras Parade on Thursday, February 8. Queen Helena CherryWilson presided over Mardi Gras along with her King Oliver Lyons. The King and Queen led the parade which processed through the school's east campus. After the parade the monarchs were honored by their subjects in the school auditorium. The Court Luncheon was held on Wednesday, Thursday, January 31. Over 60 guests attend the event.

St. Paul’s 1st Graders Visit Grandfriends Mrs. Jett’s and Mrs. Kilpatrick’s classes at St. Paul’s Episcopal School paid an early spring visit to Springhill Manor to share Valentine fun with their Grandfriends on Tuesday, February 6th. The students took the residents a Valentine cupcake craft and sang “Jesus Loves Me” to them. Parents Marion McElroy and Tara Waldron provided treats for the Springhill Manor staff, and Mrs. Riggin assisted the class by accompanying them on the walk over.

Prichard Prep School 3rd 5th graders Participate in Learning Lab at USA

All Prichard Preparatory School 3rd – 5th grade students participated in the Hands-On Learning Lab at the University of South Alabama. Session 1 consisted of learning about Logo, an educational programming language. During the 2nd Session, the Logo technology enabled the students to create music on computers. Pictured are (l to r): Olivia Mims, Ashton Roberts, and Carson Gill. Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

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Lott Middle School Second Quarter Top Ten

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6th Grade: Maddie Weaver, Destiny Jones, Carah Creel, Tyler Goodman, Mallory Odom, Austin Denmark, Paris Roberson, Aliza Weaver, Brayden Helton, Mario Aviles, Claire Campbell, Emily Guthrie. 7th Grade: EmmaLee Hendry, Ashley Ngo, Garrett Sullivan, Layia Huff, Abigail Martin, Emily Cassity, Shelby Harvison, Grace Tidwell, Bailey Davidson, David Helton, Tristan Schwartz, Charles Newburn, Kennedy Bell. 8th Grade: Marissa Wilson, Skylyr Gerlick, Gracie Roberts, Victoria Hopkins, Cole Edmonds, Aliyah Roddy, Desiree Denmark, Connor Everett, Emily Goodrich, Jordan Helveston, Lathan Farmer.

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Senior Bowl MVP and Fellow Players Visit St. Mary Catholic

St. Mary Catholic School welcomed three Senior Bowl Players, Fred Warner, Linebacker (Brigham Young); Marcus Davenport, Defensive End (Texas-San Antonio); and Senior Bowl 2018 Most Valuable Player, Kyle Lauletta, Quarterback (Richmond). From autograph signing, to playing on the playground, to arm wrestling in the gym, the players and students had a blast!

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Autauga County Schools

St. Pius X Geo Bee Winners

St. Pius X held its annual National Geographic Geography Bee on Wednesday, January 30. Nine students, ranging from grades 5-8 competed to be school champion. After an intense competition, sixth grader Helena Cherry-Wilson prevailed as the winner. Pictured left to right, Sean Wagner (3rd place), Grace Pham (Runner-up), Mr. George Naman, moderator, and Helena Cherry-Wilson champion.

UMS-Wright Students Give Back to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Across all three divisions of our school, UMS-Wright students are encouraged to be Bulldogs who S.E.R.V.E. (Selfless, Empathetic, Resolute, Vigorous, and Encouraging). Campus-wide opportunities are presented for our students and faculty to help further a sense of responsibility in local, state, national and international organizations. As part of a school-wide effort, each year UMSWright raises money for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. In January, Brian Stewart, a representative for St. Jude, was on campus to accept a $5,000 check from Yellow Day. In addition to the donation, our Middle School students made book marks and cards for him to take back to the nurses, doctors and patients!

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Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

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Courtney Ellzey Achieves 1,000 Career Points

Courtney Ellzey, a senior at Satsuma High School, is celebrating a huge milestone. She is the first player in the history of Satsuma, girls or guys, to score 1,000 points during their high school career. Courtney is quite the athlete, playing volleyball, basketball, and softball. She plans to continue her athletic career at the University of Mobile where she has signed a letter of intent to play collegiate softball.

www.ChildrensAL.org/concussion

KNOW what to do in case of suspected concussion

A concussion is an injury caused by a blow to the head in which the brain moves rapidly and may collide with the inside of the skull. Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior. Any athlete with a suspected concussion: n.....Should be IMMEDIATELY

REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY SPORTS MEDICINE

n.....Should be evaluated right away

by a doctor/healthcare professional n.... Should not be left alone n.....Should not drive a motor vehicle

Please email School News

SPORTS MEDICINE

For a Concussion Clinic appointment, call 205.934.1041 In case of medical emergency, call 911 or go directly to your local ER

and Photos to Lynn@

SPORTS MEDICINE

mobilebayparents.com by the 7th of the month. SPORTS MEDICINE

Phillips Prep School Scholarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bowl is Undefeated!

Congratulations to our Scholar's Bowl team who defeated Semmes 250 - 115 and beat Clark in a nail biter 325-285 to finish their season undefeated. Top scorers were Elias Jones, Ruth Delmas, Jake Jordan, Reeshi Ghosal and Faisal Alrakan. Way to go Pirates! The championship tournament will take place next month. 33

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Autauga County Schools

Satsuma High School Students Join U.S. Marine Corps

Satsuma High School Seniors, Chanse Davis and Ashland Bryan, will be joining the U. S. Marine Corps upon graduation. Both Chanse and Ashland will receive scholarship totals upwards of $248,400 in educational funds, housing, and stipends. They will be leaving for boot camp August 2018. Both students are pictured with SSgt Gillette.

UMS-Wright Celebrates 100th Day of School Friday, January 26th was the 100th day of school! Our Lower School students celebrated in a BIG way. K4 students made t-shirts representing “100 of their favorite things.” K5 students dressed as “100 year olds.” Finally, 1st graders made snack bags filled with 100 of their favorite food items! Our teachers love using creative ways to help their students learn.

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

COTTAGE HILL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

ENROLLING

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

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Pep Rally for Prichard Prep School Spelling Bee Representatives The entire school showed support for Andre Pogue (4th grade) and Armani Turner (5th grade) as they left to participate in the District II AISA Spelling Bee. It must have worked because Armani placed 2nd for 5th grade! Pictured are (l to r front row): Armani Turner, Andre Pogue. (l to r back row): Spelling Bee Sponsors Ms. Wilson and Mrs. Barker, and PPS Principal, Ms. Minor.

Nine St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Students Participate in National Signing Day

St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Episcopal School held a signing ceremony on Wednesday, February 7, for nine student-athletes. The students who will continue their athletic and academic careers are: Herndon Akridge University of South Alabama Baseball; Jalyn ArmourDavis The University of Alabama Football; Daniel Beard Princeton University Football; Wilson Beaverstock The University of Alabama at Birmingham Football; Kyle Cornelius Troy University Golf; Jarrett Eaton Auburn University Baseball; Will Eiland University of South Alabama Football; Swift Lyle Georgia State University Football; Will McFadden Troy University Golf.

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Autauga County Schools

Denton Magnet School Students Selected to Attend National Flight Academy

Mobile County Teachers of the Year Nadine Lynch, a fourth-grade teacher at St. Elmo Elementary, and Laurin Tew, a special education language arts teacher at Mary G. Montgomery High School, have been named the Mobile County Teachers of the Year. In addition to serving on her school’s digital literacy and Leader in Me action teams, Lynch (pictured at left) implemented a school-wide Student Advisory Survey program at St. Elmo. The program matches each student with an adult at the school who ensures that student feels safe, loved and supported. Tew (pictured at right), a 14-year educator, connects her students with the community through class projects

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like a campus beautification project this year, and through her “Tew’s Terrific Vikings” program. She has gotten personally involved to help meet the needs of her students, including putting together a fundraiser to help one family purchase a handicapaccessible van. Lynch and Tew will be the county's nominees for the statewide Teacher of the Year awards, to be announced later this spring. One of last year’s Mobile County honorees, Dawes Intermediate’s Chasity Collier, was named Alabama Elementary Teacher of the Year and has served in that capacity through the 201718 school year.

Elijah Nicholson, Ethan Farish, and Benjamin Bazzel were selected to represent Denton Magnet School of Technology at the National Flight Academy, located aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola. Students will apply science and math skills while planning missions; utilize large Newline interactive displays powered by Google Earth technology; learn to fly in the X-12B Triad experimental aircraft; and eat in Ambition‘s mess deck and sleep in staterooms. The National Flight Academy’s program focus on subject matter areas such as aerodynamics, meteorology and physics. Students will work on skills such as leadership, teamwork, critical thinking and effective communication.

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Dunbar Magnet School Students Named to Middle School Honor Band Winthrop Corey, Artistic Director

Dunbar Magnet had three students to make the Mobile County Middle School Honor Band. Liam Buckner 1st Chair Gold Band (1st in the entire county), Jalei Freeman 3rd Chair Gold Band (3rd in the entire county) and Kristin Patterson Silver Band.

SPRING REPERTOIRE PERFORMANCE

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Guest artists courtesy of Ballet Palm Beach

SUNDAY, MARCH 11, 2018 | 2:30 P.M. Louise R. Moorer Center for Performing Arts St. Luke’s Episcopal School | 1400 University Boulevard S Mobile, Alabama 36609

Robert E. Lee Student Wins Satsuma Lions Club Peace Poster Contest

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Presleigh Montalvo, a student at Robert E. Lee Elementary School, has taken the first step to becoming an internationally recognized artist by winning the local Peace Poster Contest competition sponsored by the Satsuma Lions Club. Approximately 100 students at Robert E. Lee Elementary in 6th grade participated in the “Peace Poster Contest.” This is the 4th year that Satsuma Lions Club has sponsored this program to emphasize the importance of world peace to young people. Presleigh stated, “When hands around the world are clasping in unity, the shape of our earth is changed to a heart of love and peace.” 37

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Autauga County SchoolsDodge Elementaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First

St. Mary Catholic Continues St. Mary Mardi Gras Tradition!

St. Mary Catholic kicked off Mardi Gras for the entire school with the annual Kids Krewe, featuring floats made by the students. Complete with a king and queen, St. Mary continues the Mardi Gras tradition begun here so many years ago! St. Mary Catholic School is the birthplace of Mobile's Mardi Gras Juvenile Court!

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

Million-Word Reader!

Congratulations to Jadin Ngo for being the first member of our Million Word Reader Club this year! Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s read 1,046,357 words so far this year! #DodgeSoars

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Dunbar Magnet School’s History Day Competition Winners

The social studies department is proud to announce the winners of Dunbar Magnet’s 2017-2018 History Day Competition. These students are eligible to participate in Mobile County’s History Day Competition to be held on Friday March 2nd at Central Office. 1st Place The Series that Wasn’t, Jaxon White (pictured). 1st Place Pearl Harbor, Kennedy Bazor & Sydney Upchurch. 1st Place Climate Change, Catherine Chung (pictured). 1st Place The Vietnam War, Tamya Matthews (pictured).

Please email School News and Photos to Lynn@ mobilebayparents.com by the 7th of the month.

Cottage Hill Fine Arts Department to Compete at State

The CHCA Theatre Arts Department advanced to the state level competition after placing in the AISA Regional Drama Competition. Cottage Hill Christian Academy won 1st place in duet acting, 1st place in musical ensemble, and 3rd place in ensemble acting.

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A Page in a Book Books to Save a Bad Day Families with kids often have a front row seat to the unwelcome surprises that can come out of nowhere to disrupt an otherwise normal day. When plans go awry and things spiral out of control, sometimes a lighthearted response is the best approach as we work to reassemble our expectations. The following titles recast catastrophe as comedy, taking readers through the mayhem toward hopeful and humorous outcomes on the other side of unexpected chaos!

Georgie’s Best Bad Day

by Ruth Chan (Roaring Brook / Macmillan) After getting up on the wrong side of the bed and slipping on a banana peel, George seeks out his friends to help turn his bad day around. Unfortunately, his friends are all having their own difficult mornings. They agree that doing their favorite things is guaranteed to turn the bad day around. But as they explore each friend’s choice hobby, gardening gets clipped, knitting knots up, and cooking becomes chaos. When the friends are about give up on the bad day, one final insult to their efforts lets them laugh at the chaos and make the most of what’s left. Delightfully illustrated slapstick moments in George’s Best Bad Day offer kids a bit of humorous perspective for the day that challenges them at every turn.

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And The Robot Went...

by Michelle Robinson, Illustrated by Sergio Ruzzier (Clarion / Houghton Mifflin) The discovery of a box launches an odyssey of catastrophic reactions as a versatile cast of characters try to restore the disassembled robot inside it. With so many hands on the repairs the result teeters between cascade failure or robot readiness, until one hand with a key turns the chaos around. Filled with fantastic sound effects, readers enjoy a mounting tension as switches flick, screws twist, and levers pull in the effort to put the robot back in action. This title also benefits from the repeating patterns of cumulative storytelling which support predictive thought, memorization, and speech therapy. Guaranteed to be a read-aloud favorite, And The Robot Went goes to the top of the bookshelf!

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Accident!

by Andrea Tsurumi (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) When Lola ruins a chair with a massive juice spill, running away to the library (because books and bathrooms) seems like the best plan. In her dash away from the accident, Lola runs right into other friends’ messes. A broken swing and chopped water hose spur her frightened friends to join Lola’s escape. As the running entourage of unlucky friends swells, their frantic flight is surrounded by edge-to-edge illustrations of mistakes, mayhem, calamity, and errors throughout their community. Chaos follows the fleeing friends into the library and while they don’t escape the day’s catastrophe, they do find a single word in the library that can help them revisit their troubles and set them right. Filled with hilarious background imagery of everything that can go wrong, Accident is a cheerful reminder that not every misfortune happens on purpose.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

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Celebrate with Christ United Methodist Church

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Easter Concerts n Soul on Fire Children’s Concert Sunday, March 4 | 6:00 p.m. Sanctuary | Bring the whole family for this upbeat, contemporary musical featuring popular worship songs that will inspire us all. n The Easter Story Concert Sunday, March 25 | 6:00 p.m. | Sanctuary Join us for an evening of music as the Sanctuary Choir with orchestra and narration leads us through Jesus’ suffering, death, resurrection and exaltation to the right hand of the Father.

Come and spend the day with us at our annual

Family Easter Experience!

CUMC Family

There will be lots of fun for everyone.

MARCH 24, 2018

Inflatables | Games Food Trucks | Puppets Drama Team | Egg Hunt for Kids

ster Ea Experience

Saturday, March 24 10:00 a.m. — 1:00 p.m. Christ UMC Campus

He is Risen! Easter Sunday Services | April 1st For Everyone n Easter Sunrise Service at Medal of Honor Park

For Children and Youth n 9:16 Youth Worship

7:00 a.m. | Cottage Hill Park Amphitheater | Join us for a special Easter outdoor service! Be sure to bring your own chair or blanket.

6th – 12th Grade | 9:16 a.m. Christ Center Youth Area - Upstairs

n Elementary Worship K5 – 2nd Grade | 9:15 a.m. & 10:40 a.m. | Bldg. E, Rm 249

n Easter Traditional Worship* 8:00 a.m. | 9:15 a.m. | 10:40 a.m. | Sanctuary

n Tween Worship 3rd – 5th Grade | 9:15 a.m. & 10:40 a.m. Christ Center Assembly Area

n Preschool Worship K3 – K4 | 9:15 a.m. & 10:40 a.m. Fellowship Hall

n Easter NewSong Modern Worship* 8:00 a.m. | 9:15 a.m. | 10:40 a.m. | Christ Center Gym

*Free child care is available for 0 - 2 years old in our nursery.

Visit christumcmobile.com/easter for a list of all our Easter services and events for the whole family!

Christ UMC | 6101 Grelot Road, Mobile, 41 AL | 251.342.0462 | christumcmobile.com www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

P Quit Job for School? Q. My wife and I have $72,000 in debt from student loans and a car loan. We’re trying to pay off our debt using the debt snowball system, and we each make about $45,000 a year. She’s a teacher, and she’s planning on going back to school for her master’s degree, but she’s thinking about quitting her job to do this. She’ll be able to make more money with the additional education, and she would only be unemployed for two years. The degree program will cost us $2,000 out of pocket per semester for two years. Does this sound like a good idea? A. There’s no reason for your wife to quit her job to make this happen. Lots of people — especially teachers — hold down their jobs and go back to school to further their

education. I’m not sure trying to make it on one income when you’re that deep in debt is a good idea. Whatever you do, don’t borrow more money to make this happen. Cash flow it, or don’t do it. We’re talking about $8,000 total, and you’ve got $72,000 in debt hanging over your heads already. My advice would be to wait until you’ve got the other debt knocked out, then save up and pay cash for school. You could slow down your debt snowball, and use some of that to pay for school, but I’d hate to see you lose the momentum you have when it comes to getting out of debt. The choice is yours, but don’t tack on anymore student loan debt. I know her income will go up with a master’s degree, so from that standpoint it’s a good thing to do. But if you do a good thing a dumb way, it ends up being dumb!

Rent-to-own Ok? Q. Is it okay to buy something using a rentto-own plan?

A. I advise against rent-to-own deals. Rentto-own places get people in the door with promises of low monthly or weekly payments. But when it comes to rent-to-own furniture, washer and dryer sets, and that kind of thing, you’ll end up paying much, much more than if you saved up and bought item outright. The amount you’ll pay out of pocket is even more ridiculous if you compare it to buying the same item, slightly used, somewhere else. I don’t recommend rent-to-own scenarios when it comes to buying a home, either. Most of those offerings are listed at full retail price and then some. Plus, the contracts are tilted toward the seller’s side of the equation. When it comes to real estate deals, the only thing I would consider is leasing with an option to buy. That’s different than rentto-own, because in a rent-to-own situation you’ve committed to purchase. On a lease with an option to buy deal, you have the right to purchase, but not the obligation.

L Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

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Prescription opioids can be ADDICTIVE and DANGEROUS.

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IT ONLY TAKES A LITTLE TO LOSE A LOT. www.alabamapublichealth.gov/pharmacy 43

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Getting a Grip on the “Internet of Things” It’s no secret that things are getting smarter. Devices let parents check in on sleeping babies and keep track of kids. Home management systems turn on lights, lock doors and monitor use of water or electricity. Entertainment apps notice what we like so they can offer similar products. Even little kids have apps and toys that learn their preferences by interacting with them. Taken together, all these smart, app-driven devices are called the Internet of Things (IoT). By 2020, there will be 50 billion of these intelligent devices according to one report from the Federal Trade Commission (tinyurl.com/ IoTpolicy). Proponents promise that this technology will integrate seamlessly into our lives, anticipating our needs and simplifying many chores. Beguiling as that scenario is, it comes with a price. All of these devices are “smart” because they are collecting information about our families—what we like, where we go, what we do and even what we say. It’s not paranoid to wonder who has access to all that information. The first line of defense is purchasing from reputable companies that make the extra effort to build security into their products. Before buying anything that claims to be smart, find out whether there is a procedure for updating security if the device is hacked. Second, figure out exactly what information the device collects. Devices and the apps that run them often sweep up information that isn’t essential for their mission. A step counter, for example, needs to keep track of how many steps you took, but not necessarily where you went. Give permission only for information needed to make the device functional. Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

Third, understand what use is made of the information. Many companies collect anonymous information to spot trends that help them improve their products. Some companies use data to determine what you like so they can recommend other things you might want to buy. And some companies share information with government agencies or sell it to other unrelated companies. Depending on the situation, these policies may seem perfectly OK or highly intrusive. You can’t make an informed decision unless you understand the company’s policy. Hacking, of course, is a risk even for products purchased from a reliable company that handles information responsibly. Many security experts are concerned that the Internet of Things is highly vulnerable to manipulation. Unlike computers and cellphones which come with elaborate security systems and update procedures, devices are not required to have protection. As a result, they may give hackers backdoor access to wireless systems and sensitive data on other devices. Consumers can defend themselves by taking these precautions. Install updates. Hackers are constantly testing systems to see if they are vulnerable. Responsible companies develop fixes as soon as they are aware of problems, but those solutions won’t help if you don’t install updates. Keep track of the smart devices your family uses. Set up software so updates are downloaded automatically if possible. Or designate one day a month as Security Day. Log into the apps and websites that control your smart devices and install any updates. Delete apps controlling devices that aren’t being used. 44

Take passwords seriously. Many experts recommend a unique password for each device. That way, even if one device is compromised, hackers won’t have access to other information. Of course, it’s not easy to keep track of dozens of passwords. A password storage program like Last Pass will generate and keep track of truly random passwords, but are vulnerable to hackers. Another alternative is to develop your own system for creating unique but memorable passwords. Start with a ten or twelve word phrase that has meaning for you. It could be a song lyric, a favorite quote, the punchline to a family joke, something cute one of your kids said, or a simple fact about your family. Pay special attention to microphones and cameras. Devices with microphones and cameras can eavesdrop on your family, so they require extra supervision. Learn how to disable cameras and mute microphones when they aren’t in use. If you don’t have confidence in the controls, think twice about purchasing the device. Or cover lenses with privacy stickers, available from companies like camjmr.com. Consider a separate Wifi connection. As smart devices proliferate, some experts suggest having two password protected Wifi connections for your home. One provides access to computers, tablets and cellphones and the other allows communication among things—toys, toasters, thermostats and home management systems like Amazon’s Echo or Google’s Home. Some routers make this easy by providing a guest network option, but most families will need a professional to make sure everything is configured properly. Although smart devices have the potential to make family life more convenient and entertaining, they can also be an expensive distraction. Ultimately, parents have to be the smart ones, evaluating each product to decide whether it’s useful enough—and secure enough--to deserve a place in your home. 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, 2018, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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As 14 million children across the country head off to day and overnight camps this summer, they’ll return home with more than just a cute camp t-shirt. The summer camp experience can give kids an advantage in school and in life. Here’s how camp benefits kids: Nurtures social skills. Camp is a community away from home and school where kids learn to work with each other and adult mentors, build relationships and manage conflict. “You learn to navigate through group dynamics, to barter, to keep one another happy, to be sensitive and support a friend who’s sad,” says James Spearin, YMCA senior vice president of youth development. “These skills transfer and build adults with strong character and leadership.”

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

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Models healthy living. According to the Centers for Disease Control, obesity in children has doubled, and in teens has quadrupled, in the last 30 years. Thanks to the many activities camp offers, kids stay busy and physically active. More camps are also working to offer healthier food choices for their campers. According to 2014 study in the American Journal of Health Behavior, camps that offer wholesome foods are more likely to turn out campers who eat more fruits and veggies. Many resident and day camps now offer cooking and gardening tracks where kids learn how to prepare nutritious meals. Eases the summer slide. You know that old saying, “if you snooze, you lose”? In the absence of regular enrichment over summer break, research finds that kids typically lose as much as two months of grade level equivalency in math. Reading comprehension and spelling skills also take a hit during the summer. To help curb summer learning loss, many specialized camps offer educational opportunities in STEM (science,

technology, engineering and math) that make learning and problemsolving fun and interactive. Also look for camps geared toward reading, writing and the arts.

What Campers Say: 96% say camp helped them make new friends 92% say people at camp make them feel good about themselves 74% did something they were afraid to do at first Source: ACACamps.org

Provides a sense of achievement. From rock climbing to whitewater rafting and horseback riding, summer camp gives kids a chance to try activities that they wouldn’t ordinarily get to try. “Trying new things in an encouraging environment creates a greenhouse for growing young leaders,” says Garret Perkins, director of Camp Kanakuk, a faith-based camp that offers overnight, day and family camps.

Enhances self-confidence. According to an extensive study of camper outcomes conducted by Philliber Research Associates, 70 percent of parents report that their child gained self-confidence while at camp. Whether they work through homesickness or tackle an activity that pushed them outside of their comfort zone, kids walk away feeling a stronger sense of personal pride and self-reliance. “We use our activities and facilities as platforms to encourage kids in who they

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are and equip them to grow in confidence in who God has created them to be,” Perkins says. “With this newfound perspective, they become influencers in their own communities.”

Helps them unplug. In a distracting digital world, camp offers valuable space where kids can slow down, connect and focus. “At Kanakuk, we remove the distraction technology offers and give campers the chance to plug into the great outdoors, try new sports and activities, make friends through shared experiences instead of shared social media platforms-and we see them come alive,” Perkins says. Builds friendships. Away from the pressures, labels and social structure of school, one of the best parts of camp is the opportunity for kids to make new friends. “Some of the biggest benefits we saw from sending our children to Kanakuk were their new friendships, spiritual growth and just the opportunity for them to spend time with like-minded people away from worldly distractions,”

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

says Dianne Shadwick, whose three, now grown, children began attending Camp Kanakuk at age 9.

Reintroduces them to nature. According to a nationwide poll conducted by The Nature Conservancy, only about 10 percent of children spend time outdoors everyday. Why? Kids say they aren’t interested, they lack access and are uncomfortable outside. In the meantime, they’re growing more and more attached to life in cyberspace and further detached from the natural world. “To connect with our woods and forests, our wildlife, our lakes and streams and oceans, our stars in complete darkness, all while depending on other campers and adults to keep one another safe is an experience unlike most others in life,” Spearin says.

Fosters teamwork. Camp facilitates an environment where kids learn that to succeed they must work together with their peers and their camp leaders. Whether they’re working to build a campfire together, playing a game, or preparing a meal, campers learn to

problem-solve to accomplish their goals. Through teamwork, kids learn that they are each an integral part of the camp community where they feel a sense of acceptance and belonging.

Encourages personal growth. While camp may simply seem like a quintessential summer pastime for kids where they might learn to swim, sleep in a cabin and sing around a campfire, they’re rewarded with personal development skills that will help them in the classroom, in their relationships and eventually, the board room- or whatever their calling. “Those tangible experiences lead to building the foundations of stronger children who can lead others, show empathy, navigate through difficult group dynamics, value the differences in everyone, and give of oneself for the benefit of others,” Spearin says. “These are skills that the best in our society show throughout life.” MBP Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines is the mom of two sons who love to attend camps each summer. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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THE ADVENTURES IN

Math & Science

2018 Summer Camp Sessions

Hosted by the Alabama School of Math and Science

Launch a Rocket Kayak in Mobile Bay Build a Robot

Solve a Crime Prepare for the ACT

June 4-8, June 11-15, & June 18-22 Located in Mobile, AL

Day & Overnight Camp

Grades 6-10

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Register Online Early to Save! Register by April 1: $360 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $260 Day Camp (includes lunch) Register after April 1: $385 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $285 Day Camp (includes lunch) Cost to stay weekend between a session is an additional $185 (includes trip to water park)

COURSE SAMPLING ACT Prep, Algebra Review, Exploring Inner Space, Marine Biology, CSI: Mobile, Phun Physics, Using Java, Robotics, Field Biology, Psychology, Math Puzzles, Labs of Doom, Rocketry, Origami, Speak Up, Light Metals and Enameling, Apps for Smart Devices, and many more. Applications, more information, and course descriptions are online at WWW.ASMS.NET.

DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS MAY 1, 2018

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Behavioral Warning Signs in Teens There is much in the news these days about cars accelerating out of control, leaving the driver and passengers helpless to know how to slow down or stop their runaway vehicle. That’s kind of what it is like in a family with a teenager who is out of control. The whole family gets swept along for the not so joyful ride. Typical adolescent behavior includes moodiness, hyper-sensitivity and irrational thinking — no cause for much alarm. But there are other behaviors that are warning signs of a bigger problem than you may realize. These attitudes and behaviors are often triggered by a child’s feeling of being disrespected or abandoned in some way at some point in their life, and the level at which those feelings impact their actions, relationships and decisions in the teen years becomes abnormal. Do you understand the difference between normal and abnormal teenager behavior? If not, here’s a handy tool we’ve developed to describe the behaviors that may mean that there is more going on than the normal bumps of adolescence:

Behavioral Warning Signs

Instructions: Enter how often the behavior is experienced: 0=Never 1=Sometimes 2=Frequently 3=All the Time [___] Your teen refuses to abide by anything you say or request. These behaviors may put your teen or your family in danger or high risk, and lead to constant fear or stress in the home. [___] Your teen displays behavior that is a marked change from what has been normal for them in the past (slipping grades, sleeping too little or too long, forgetfulness, lack of motivation, aggression, depression, anxiety, hating what they once loved or loving what they once hated, always wanting to be with friends away from home, or avoiding friends altogether and spending too much time alone). [___] Your teen is increasingly disrespectful and dishonest and no longer veils his or her feelings nor cares about the consequences of misbehavior. Seemingly a loss of a conscience or moral compass. [___] There is a blatant ignorance or profound rebellion toward the boundaries and rules of your home. This can be shown in passive aggressiveness or open defiance that is unusually excessive for your teen. Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

[___] Outright or veiled threats of suicide; participation in self-mutilation or eating disorders or cutting (Important: Get immediate professional help!) [___] Excessive risk-taking, running away, dangerous drug or alcohol use (confirmed by drug tests); blatant sexual promiscuity, or same-sex relationships. [___] Threatening or out-of-control treatment against people, pets, or belongings, or your teen exhibits a vengeful spirit and destroys things to “pay back” a perceived mistreatment by others. Disrespect for all forms of authority. [___] Your teen thinks he or she is the center of your family, while at the same time showing a growing hatred for the family, evidenced by a blatant disregard for their feelings, time and possessions. Demands for money or outright theft of money or family possessions, or using things without permission and then claiming they were lost. [___] You cannot keep your teen away from peers who are obviously leading a lifestyle counter to your beliefs, and your teen is buying into their destructive behavior and attitudes. SCORE: ______ (total of the numbers you entered)

If the score is 15 or more, there is probably more going on in your teen’s life than you can handle on your own or through the normal tools of parenting. Your child needs some professional help, and things have escalated to the point that it could even mean that your child needs to be treated for a time away from your home, at a therapeutic facility like our Heartlight program. If the score is less than 15, it doesn’t mean that you are off the hook. Things can escalate quickly and the errant behaviors will expand to other areas; so if you’ve written a “2” or “3” next to any of these warning signs, you need to work hard to do to get that particular area under control before it spreads. Keep in mind that misbehavior in teenagers is usually nothing more than a flag they are waving high in the air to tell the adults in their life that something is wrong. Their actions are likely being sparked by something in their past, like: abuse, a split in the home, a death of a loved one, a mental illness, or a chemical or hormonal imbalance. They could also be the result of hidden substance abuse, excessive feelings of guilt, or bullying by peers. Sometimes the causes are so tragic and personal that a child would never 50

think of telling anyone about them, but they bubble or explode to the surface through their actions instead. Or, they may not even know why they are acting the way they are. In those cases, it is best to get a professional counselor involved, who can deal with these issues privately and skillfully.

Other Signs

Some teens act out their issues and stresses in less apparent ways, but these are warning signs as well. Those include: frequent sadness, crying for no reason, withdrawal from friends and activities, refusal to eat or over-eating, sleeping too much, feelings of hopelessness, loss of energy, talk of death, suicide or ending it all are all signs of depression. A depressed teen may not be making a fuss in the family, but the issues and outcomes can be just as serious. Another type of warning sign is your own feelings. Pay attention to them. If you’ve caught yourself thinking: “Our family cannot live like this any longer,” or “I can’t put a finger on it, but something is wrong with that kid,” or “I can’t sit by and watch him destroy himself,” then you already know that something needs to change. And if you have the feeling that something is going on that you just can’t put your finger on, you’d be wise to put on your detective hat and get to the bottom of it, because your gut feeling is probably right. You may be able to stop the problem well before it gets out of control. Sadly, every day, I meet good kids from great families with wonderful parents who are dismayed by their teen’s journey down the wrong road. The stress of it has torn their family and even their marriage apart in the process. I trust you will not allow things to get that far before you deal with the problem, or seek the right kind of help, if that is needed.

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

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Day camps come in all shapes and sizes, appealing to a range of interests and ages. Here’s how to find a camp that invests in your youngster by creating an unforgettable experience where they’ll meet new friends, gain self-confidence and learn new skills --all while giving you peace of mind.

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Begin with basics. First determine your schedule needs. Some camps are only a few hours a day while others are structured to work well with a working parent’s schedule. Figure out if you’ll need to arrange before or after care. From there, seek a camp with “caring staff, fun programs and a dedication to the health and safety of the campers,” says DD Gass, a director of camps and school-age services for a faith-based community center. Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

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Match the camp with your child’s interests. From computer coding to robotics and sports, day camps offer kids the opportunity to try all kinds of new activities. If your child isn’t interested in a camp that specializes in one activity, choose a more traditional camp that offers a wide range of activities throughout the session. “Make sure there’s a healthy balance between structure and choice,” says Jim Spearin, senior vice president of Youth Development for the YMCA.

Consider the culture. Ask for referrals from trusted family and friends.”Choose a camp that welcomes parents as partners in their experience,” Spearin says. “Parents should always feel welcome to come visit during camp. There should be planned activities for both parent and camper to enjoy together such as special events or campouts.”

Seek qualified, organized staff. Camp employees should be licensed, certified and trained in sexual/child abuse prevention, first aid and CPR. Find out how camp leaders are supervised and how they plan for emergencies, including natural disasters, intruders and other threats. Also consider the child-to-staff ratio. Will your child feel lost in a group that’s too big, even if it meets state criteria? “It’s vitally important for staff to have child development knowledge and experience to ensure that appropriate, engaging and enriching activities are offered,” says Katrina Ball, a childcare resource and referral director.

Try it before you buy. Attend a camp expo or camp fair to find out what options exist in the area. Some organizations feature their own camp fairs and mini-camps during the spring for families to try. “As a parent you know your child best and what program would be best for them. Trust your instincts,” Ball says.

Calm butterflies. Many youngsters have a hard time adjusting to new situations and people and may feel scared or intimidated. Include them in the process of choosing a camp. Discuss the schedule of activities and what a typical day will look like. “Children can help pack their lunch (if needed) and pack their backpack with the items they’ll need for camp. This helps them know what they have in their backpack and know what they will need to bring home,” Gass says. Find out if one of your child’s friends would like to attend the camp with him. Attending orientations, visiting the camp site and meeting the staff prior to the beginning of camp can also help reduce any pre-camp jitters. MBP

Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two happy day campers. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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Whether you want them to experience day or overnight camp, sports or fine arts, our listing has details on these and many more. It’s time to get your campers ready for summer fun! Art/Music/ Performing Arts Azalea City Center for the Arts Summer Camps ad on page 3

63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606 Drama Camp at University of South Alabama- Are you ready for two weeks of fun? Join us for full-blown Drama Camp (around since 2002) -- We will put on a full-length show, play games, go outdoors, and paint sets! Cost of $260 includes cast party, t-shirt, DVD, costumes, script, and more! 9:00 – 1:00, Grades 3 & up. Session 1- June 4- June 15, Session 2 - June 18 – 29, Session 3 - July 2 - 13, * Special Musical Theater intensive July 16 - 20 from 9 am to 5 pm, * Special Rising Stars session for older campers grades 8 & up June 25 - July 6 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. $190. Glee Camp - June 11 - June 22 - Grades 3 & up - a chance to really shine in a musical revue! Taught by our professional voice teachers it is loaded with singing, dancing, and fun! Drama Camp Junior - For our youngest actors & actresses, we have one-week sessions that produce a daily skit or performance. Campers participate in group games, costume craziness, bringing books to life, and stage fun! Cost $130 includes tshirt, costumes, snacks, and performances. 9:00 – 1:00 Grades PK - 2. $130/week. Themes include Charlotte’s Web, Alice in Wonderland, Madagascar, Mary Poppins, Little Mermaid, and more! Music Camps @ Full Scale of Music – Do you have talented kids who loves different styles of music? Try our summer music camps where you can play in a band, work on technique, improvise, learn a new instrument, write a song, and learn music theory. Prices are $195 for camp 8:30-3:30 and $115 for camp 8:30-12. The schedule is listed at www.fullscaleschool.com. Choose from Jazz and Blues Camp, Rock Band Camp, Praise and Worship Camp 251-510-1808 dramacamp@mindspring.com www.azaleacityarts.com

Blue Bird Therapy Music & Movement ad on page 32

6157 Airport Blvd Suite 205, Mobile, AL 36608 Taught by a Music Therapist AND an Occupational Therapist with focus on learning new motor plans Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

through playing instruments, dancing & learning songs. Open to persons of all ability who love music and movement. $45 for 4 sessions. June 11 -15. Ages 3 – 4. 10am – 11am. Register by May 11. 251-287-0378 bluebirdtherapy@gmail.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Alabama Contemporary Art Center

301 Conti Street, Mobile, AL 36602 Let your child explore the world of contemporary art through Alabama Contemporary Art Center’s Summer Camps! 251-208-5671 info@alabamacontemporary.org www.alabamacontemporary.org

Auburn Summer Band Camp

320 W Samford Avenue, Auburn, AL 36849 Auburn Summer Band Camps: Yamaha “Sounds of Summer” Marching Percussion Camp - June 5 - 6. Drum majors and section leaders will benefit from our Marching Leadership program held June 13 - 16. Colorguard, dancers, and majorettes will enjoy our Marching Auxiliary program, which includes basic and advanced technique development and group routines and will be June 21 - 23. Auburn University Bands also holds two annual Summer Symphonic Band Camps each year. These camps, designed for Middle School held June 21 – 23 and High School students on June 10 - 13 respectively, provide an excellent opportunity for the musical development of our participants during the summer. Rehearsals with band students from across the country, as well as section rehearsals and master classes, are a reason your child won’t want to miss out on being a part of our summer camp program this year. 334- 844-4166 etl0001@tigermail.auburn.edu www.band.auburn.edu

CHBC Music Worship Camp

Cottage Hill Baptist Church, 7355 Creekwood Drive, Mobile, AL 36695 Worship Camp 2018 is coming to Cottage Hill Baptist Church. Join us at CHBC for an exciting week of games, creative movement, worship songs, art and so much more! July 9-13th with a performance Friday night, July 13th. 8:45-12:00 each day for completed K5 – 5th grade. Cost: $25 per child 251-660-2422

www.cottagehill.org/chbc-events/

Mobile Museum of Art - ArtBlast

4850 Museum Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 Art Blast, the Museum’s summer art camp, runs weekly from June 11 - July 27, 2018 (skipping the week of July 4). With classes for 4-7 year olds, 8-11 year olds and 12 and up, there is truly something for everyone in the wide variety of art offered throughout the summer. Ceramics, painting and drawing in all styles inspire students to energize their creativity, while learning about elements of art and art history.

All classes are taught by experienced art educators and are based on the Discipline-Based Arts Education principles of creating art, viewing art, and discussing art in the context of history, while considering its aesthetics. With significant art on display throughout the Museum to reinforce lesson plans, students may experience a total immersion in the art that is both enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. Cost: One 2-hour class (10 hours of instruction), M-F: $75 for members; $110 for nonmembers. All day camp, M-F, 8:00am-5:00pm with a supervised lunch hour (40 hours of instruction): $180 for members; $220 for nonmembers. Join the Museum for member discounts. 251-208-5212 kwood@MobileMuseumofArt.com www.mobilemuseumofart.com/learn

Mobile Parks & Rec Community

Camps offering arts, crafts, sewing and much more. 251-208-1617

www.communityactivitiesprogram.com

Mobile School of Piano

Ages 4 years old to adult. This class is a great introductory to the student as well as a great refresher course and it is long enough that the student will see the benefits of piano. They will learn sight reading, ear training, improvising and more! The students will learn a variety of styles including but not limited to Christian, classical, contemporary and “fun” songs. The student can request to learn a specific style if there is something they have in mind. By the end of the summer, the student will have a repertoire of songs they can play on their own, from memory and with music. The style of songs that will be in the repertoire is the student’s choice. 251-272-9616

www.mobileschoolofpiano.com

Paint Party Studios

15 Upham Street, Mobile, AL 36607 Paint Party Studios: Pop-up Kids Summer Special Events and Classes in our studio will be posted on our Facebook page at facebook. com/paintpartystudios/ for ages 6+. We also host kids birthday parties, summer school field trips, VBS field trips, scouts and team parties in our studio or at your church or school throughout the summer. 251-343-2423 info@paintpartystudios.com www.paintpartystudios.com

Playhouse in the Park

4851 Museum Dr, Mobile, AL 36608 Summer Theatre Camps will be offered this summer. More info coming soon!

251-602-0630 playhouseintheparkmobileal@gmail.com www.playhouseinthepark.org

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Springhill Baptist Church - SMASH

2 South McGregor Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608 SMASH at Spring Hill Baptist Church is a Music Day Camp for children who have completed K4 through 6th grade. Dates for camp this year will be July 16-20, performance date July 22 (grades 1 - 6). Music learning activities including crafts, music games, instruments and singing. Fun for all!!!! Cost: $75 for one child. $110 for two children. $140 for three or more children. 251-342-5320

drice@shbc.cc www.shbc.cc/smash

University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 The University of Alabama Band Department offers a variety of summer programs for high school students. Ranging from honor bands to marching bands, these programs provide young musicians with top-notch experience and education, as well as an exciting way for students to get involved with the university. 205-348-6068 jhnails@ua.edu www.bands.ua.edu/programs

Dance/Gymnastics/ Cheer Broadway South Dance ad on page 39

7906 Westside Park Dr; 4715 Airport Blvd, Ste 300, Mobile, AL 36695; 36609 We are Mobile’s #1 Choice in Dance! We offer a large variety of dance camps and summer classes for ages 2-18 as well as Adult Dance and workout classes. Summer Camps at West Mobile and Regency Locations-Call to register! 251-639-0660 office@broadwaysouthdance.com www.broadwaysouthdance.com

Classical Ballet of Mobile

Gale’s Studio of Dance

4621 Spring Hill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608 Classical Ballet of Mobile Summer 2018: Ballet Intensive Week with Kathryn Morgan, former soloist New York City BalletJune 4-8 (Ages 10 and older) (Check our website and social media for detailed information.) “Snow White’s Enchanted Adventures” - June 4-7, 10:00-12:30 (Ages 8-9) $180, “Princesses of Ballet” -June 11-14 Mon/Tues/Thurs , June 18-21 Mon/ Tues/Thurs - 10:00-12:30 (Ages 10-11) $150 per week,$275 two weeks, “Princesses of Ballet and Their Variations” - June 11-14 Mon/Tues/Thurs, June 18-21 Mon/Tues/Thurs, 1:00-3:30 (Ages 12 and older) $175 per week, $275 two weeks, “The Princess and the Butterfly” - June 18-21, 10:00-12:00 (Ages 3-5) $180, “The Princess and the Butterfly” June 18-21, 10:00-12:00 (Ages 6-7) $180. *Open ballet classes will be offered in July and August.

6345 Airport Blvd. Suite F, Mobile, AL 36608 Gale’s Studio of Dance will hold it’s 36th Annual Dance Recital at the Mobile Civic Center on Friday, May 25th and will offer six weeks of Summer Dance Camps and Classes beginning June 12th. Students attend camp one day a week. Offering: Tip Toes & Tumbling for Tots held on Tuesdays & Thursdays, “Enchanted Princess Camp” ages 3-5 held on Tuesdays, “Pop Star Camp” ages 6 & up held on Tuesdays, “Teens & Tweens Camp” ages 10 & up held on Wednesdays, “Summer Intensive” – Advanced classes 13 & up held on Thursdays. Dancers may study ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, tumbling, lyrical, hip hop and cheerleading. Your child will be… “Inspired, Motivated & Challenged” while having FUN this summer with our professional staff!

ad on page 37

251-410-4477

www.classicalballetmobile.org

251-343-9544

Debbie’s School of Dance ad on page 31

www.debbiesdance.com

Www.galesstudioofdance.com

Mobile Ballet

6429 Hillcrest Park Court, Mobile, AL 36695 Each summer, join Debbie’s School of Dance for our spectacular summer camps, perfect for children ages 2 and up! We offer fun, creative camps that will keep your child active and entertained. Princess Sophia’s Dance Camp features Ballet, Tumbling, Story Time and Games on Tuesday and Thursdays from 9:00 -9:45 am; Monday & Wednesday, 5:45- 6:30 or Tuesday & Thursday, 5:45 – 6:30. Cost - $95. Descendants Hip-Hop Camp - Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday – 6:30-7:30pm. Cost - $95. Princess Elena Ballet Adventures – Ballet, Tumbling, Story Time and Games – Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday 5:45 pm - 6:45 pm. Cost - $95. 251-633-9559

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4351 Downtowner Loop North, Mobile, AL 36609 Summer is an excellent time to begin ballet studies or to enhance your ballet skills! Mobile Ballet offers a full range of summer classes for ages 3 and up along with intensives at both our Mobile and Eastern Shore studios featuring outstanding guest teachers and Mobile Ballet faculty. Fun summer training to advance your classical ballet and Broadway-style jazz skills. Ballet & jazz classes, stretch & strengthening components, and focus on improving technique. Performance for family and friends at end of each Session! Watch for more details soon! 251-342-2241

www.mobileballet.org

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1616 W Interstate 65 Service Road S | Mobile, AL, 36693 (Previous Olde Mobile Antiques Gallery) Learn more at juniorleaguemobile.org | 251.471.3348

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Cheer Force One

8700 Zeigler Blvd, Mobile, AL 36608 All Star Cheerleading, Cheer Summer Camps, & Tumbling Classes for boys and girls. Official Summer Camp schedule coming soon. See our ad for a coupon for FREE family registration for new members. 251-634-0203 info@cheerforceone. com www.cheerforceone.com

Cottage Hill Gymnastics Center 1711 Hillcrest Rd, Mobile, AL 36695 Gymnastics, Tumbling and Trampoline.

Nasser’s Gymnastics ad on page 23

3055 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36607 Keep your children active this summer in a safe and fun environment. Ages 3 and up. Summer Camp is a great way for kids to play with their friends and meet new ones.Many exciting activities such as arts & crafts, games, gymnastics (of course) and much more! Very Flexible schedule: half-day, full-day, daily, weekly rates, and drop-offs available. Please see our ad in this issue for special discounts! 251-479-9311 nassergym@yahoo.com www. nassergym.net

Planet Gymnastics ad on page 67

900 Schillinger Road South, Mobile, AL 36695 Half-day, daily, and weekly rates. Walk-ins welcome! (Ages 3-14) Camp Dates – May 24-until school returns. No registration fees, unbelievable rates, 20% sibling discounts and great hours from 7:30am – 5:30pm (late pick up until 6:30pm). Instructional Camp – Olympic Camp – June 11-14 (Girls all levels beginner to elite). Come join Olympic Champion Vladimir Novikov and other special guests for great gymnastics instruction. 251-650-0699 PlanetGymnasticsAL@comcast.net www.planetgymnastics.com

Auburn Tigers Girls Gymnastics Camp

703 West Samford Avenue, Auburn, AL 36849 Residential or Commuter Camp June 10 – 13. Residential July Camp July 13-15, Day Camp June 14-15. Auburn Gymnastics Camps in Alabama offer an opportunity for gymnasts to receive valuable instruction on the fundamentals of gymnastics while addressing new skills. Campers will be made aware of the characteristics that define a successful gymnast and drill progressions will be aimed towards recognizing and developing good habits in all aspects of gymnastics.General courtesy, respect for others and the importance of hard work will be taught to the campers through example by the Tiger coaches. The Auburn University coaching staff, many qualified club coaches, as well as several current and former Auburn gymnasts will be working daily with campers. 334-844-5047 kurth@auburn.edu www.abcsportscamps.com/autigers

Brandy Brown

2569 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36606 The Brandy Brown Studio for the Performing Arts Arts teaches young people the joys and excitement of performing. The studio is dedicated to introducing and exposing our youth to the performing arts while affording them the opportunity to receive training in a nurturing environment. Summer Camps Offered. 251-509-5659 brandybrownstudio@gmail.com www.brandybrownstudio.net/

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

us! Accepting dancers ages 2 and up. Like us on Facebook! Robinson’s School of Dance: Bayou Studio.

251-455-1866

robinsonsbayoustudio@gmail.com

Sheffield School of Dance

4570 Hermitage Road/1901 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36619; 36608 Sheffield School of the Dance is Mobile & Baldwin County’s “BEST DANCE STUDIO” from the 2016 & 2017 Nappie Awards! We will be offering exciting Summer Camps & Classes for all ages and levels in 2018! 251-479-3926; 251-661- 4893 www.sheffielddance.com

251-666-0559; 251 208-1631 www.cityofmobile.org/parks

UMS-Wright Cheer and Dance Camps

LSU Gymnastics Camp

251-470-9045

Baton Rouge, LA 70803 At Flying Tiger Gymnastics Camp we aspire to provide expert coaching in all of the disciplines required to be an accomplished gymnast. Emphasis is placed on advancing the individual skill level of each gymnast. We follow proper skill progressions and basic fundamentals are stressed while we work to increase the camper’s skills in all events. 225-766-7125 flyingtigergymnasticscamp@gmail.com www.lsusports.net/camps

Maccrossan School of Irish Dance Summer Dance Camps

63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606 Call about our Irish Dance Summer Camp!

228-239-2422 maccrossanirishdance@yahoo.com www.azaleacityarts.com

Mrs. Lisa’s

65 Mobile Street, Mobile, AL 36607 See more details under Sports Camps. www.ums-wright.org

University of Alabama - Gymnastics Camps

323 Paul West Bryant Drive, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 University of Alabama Gymnastics Camps are designed to maximize each camper’s experience through technical training in a challenging and fun atmosphere. We take pride in providing all participants an in-depth opportunity to grow and develop as a gymnast. Session 1 (all levels) June 22-24 Session 2 (High Performance Camp - Level 7-10, Elite & All Levels Camp) June 29-July 1, Session 3 - (High Performance Camp - Recommended for Levels 7-10 & Elite) July 13-15. Day Camper Fee is $495 and Overnight fee is $595. Overnight Camp is for ages 9 years and up. Day Camp is for ages 7 years and up. Bamagymcamp@ia.ua.edu www.alabamagymnasticscamp.com

Christ United Methodist Church Summer Camps

Ms. Daphne’s Cheernastics

6101 Grelot Rd, Mobile, AL 36609 Kidz Crossing Summer Camp - Completed K5 through 5th grade. Activities will include skating, bowling, arts and crafts, talent shows, tennis camp, Vacation Bible School, indoor and outdoor games and much more.

102 Baker Road, Satsuma, AL 36572 For current info, visit our Facebook Page: Ms. Daphne’s CheerNastics; Summer Schedule and camps TBA.

251-599-2205 msdaphnescheernastics@yahoo.com www.msdaphnescheernastics.com

Precision Dance

168 Noel Street, Mobile, AL 36607 Precision Dance Academy, located in the Springhill/ Midtown area, will again host an exciting summer filled with camps and intensives for both boys and girls of all ages. Please like us on Facebook for updates and more camp information. 251-222-3403

www.precisiondanceacademy.net

Robinson’s School of Dance

421 Highway 43 North, Saraland, AL 36571 Summer Registration Saturday, June 2nd 2018 from 10-12noon & Monday June 4th from 4-6p.m. Classes start Tuesday, June 5th! Classes will run for 6 weeks this summer! Unlimited classes for $250 for 6 weeks of summer! With guest teachers and choreographers! Offering the best in tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical, contemporary, pointe, acrobatics, baton and hip hop! Going on 48 years and counting! Classes run 6 weeks on Tuesdays and Thursdays! 251-675-5915

www.Robinsonsschoolofdance.com

Robinson’s School of Dance: Bayou Studio

8665 Four Mile Rd, Irvington, AL 36544 Announcing Summer Dance Intensive Offering the best in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, and Acrobatics Summer Dance Intensive Registration- July 9th 5-7pm Classes begin July 10th, and run every Tuesday and Thursday in July. Come dance with

ad on page 8, 41

251-342-7215 christie@christumcmobile.com www.christumcmobile.com/summer

Dauphin Island Sea Lab Summer Day Camps

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101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Hands-on adventures introduce children ages 5 through 13 to Alabama’s ocean. Oceans Alive! (Ages 5-8) June 8, July13, and July 30 - This half-day adventure combines arts and crats with a beach walk adventure. BIO Blitz (Ages 10-13) June 15, July 12, and July 31 - Explore nature and discover coastal Alabama’s diversity with this day long camp. Survivor:Dauphin Island (Ages 8-10) June 14, July 13, and August 1 - Will you survive on the island? During this day long camp learn how to cast a net, catch crabs, bait a hook, and filet a fish. 251-861-2141 (ext. 7515) www.disl.org

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144 East I-65 Service Rd North, Mobile, AL 36607 Mrs. Lisa’s offers Recreational tumbling classes , Competitive Cheer Teams for ages 3-18 , School Cheer Teams Tumbling, Private Lessons , & Choreography. 251-471-9708 mrslisasalabamajags@comcast.net www.alabamajagallstars.com/

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Dauphin Way Baptist Summer Camp ad on page 34

3661 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36608 Dauphin Way Baptist Summer Camp hours are 6:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for children who have completed 5K thru 5th grade. Camp begins May 29 and ends August 3. Registration fee is $75 per child with a daily fee of $28 which includes lunch. Weekly activities include swimming, skating, arts and crafts,

www.mobilebayparents.com

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251-344-0909 Facebook -Dauphin Way Baptist Child Development Center

Joyland Summer Camp ad on page 42

1501 Knollwood Drive, Mobile, AL 36609 Summer Camp (Accepting Grades K4-5th grade) beginning May 29. Two field trips each week along with lunch and snack are included. Full time and daily drop-in rates available. 251-666-4996

www.joylanddaycare.com

Learn - Play - Grow ad on page 16

513 Georgian Drive, Mobile, AL 36609 Funtastic summer day camps for children 5 - 12 years old. Learn - Play - Grow combines the Montessori Philosophy with Fireflies and Buttercups curricula to give your child a FUNTASTIC learning experience! 251-342-5399

St. Luke’s Episcopal School Camp Wildcat ad on page 5

3975 Japonica Lane , Mobile, AL 36693 St. Luke’s Episcopal School is excited to announce “Camp Wildcat”, a fun filled summer day camp for children grades Pre-Kindergarten through Sixth grade. Our Junior Camp serves children ages 3 through 5 (rising K-3, K-4 and K-5), while our Senior Camp serves rising 1st through 6th graders. All campers will enjoy activities associated with our weekly themes, and participate in enrichment classes such as library, computer, science, Spanish, and art. Our Junior Campers will enjoy many on-site activities, while our Senior campers attend field trips and swim once a week. We will also offer “Water Slide Wednesday” to everyone each week to keep cool! Our counselors are trained to provide a great experience for your child while maintaining the highest level of safety. Camp Wildcat offers weekly themed day camps. Campers can be dropped off at 7:30 a.m., with camp ending each day at 5:30 p.m. We are closed on the Fourth of July. 251-666-2991 cjackson@stlukesmobile.com www.stlukesmobile.com

The Watermelon Patch ad on page 48

6417 Hillcrest Park Court, Mobile, AL 36695 At The Watermelon Patch we love summer and we do Summer Camp right! Your child will experience 10 full weeks of fun weekly themes that will have them waking up and excited to come every single day. Some of our themes will include dancing, singing, pirate ship building, ice cream making, painting and water balloons just to name a few. It’s a super fun summer that will entertain and delight children who are walkers to 6 years old. Hours will be Monday - Friday, 8:30 am to 12:30pm. Extended hours are also offered. We will offer 2, 3 and 5 day options. Registration is open and space is limited so please call our office today to reserve your child’s spot. 251-633-3288

www.watermelonpatchkids.com

Boys and Girls clubs of South Alabama

4 Locations: 35 Cody Road South, 251-343=4320; 712 Rice Street, 251-478-7811; 3810 Wulff Road East, Semmes, 251-645-9027; 6585 Carol Plantation Road, Theodore, 251-653-1188, Mobile, AL Come celebrate the summer with Boys & Girls Clubs! Our Summer Enrichment Programs lead to a Great Future by providing academic enrichment, sports & fitness activities, character & leadership programs, and fun & educational field trips. Activities are age-appropriate, take place in a safe, positive environment, and are led by experienced and caring youth development staff. Choose your Club, and enroll today...space is limited. You pay only for the weeks you attend. 251-432-1235 bcarlisle@bgcsouthal.org www.bgcsouthal.org

Boys Scouts of America Cub Scout Day C.S.I. Cub Scout Investigation

The Grounds, 1035 Cody Rd N, Mobile, AL 36608 The Mobile Area Council, Boy Scouts of America will be holding its annual Cub Scout Summer Day Camp. The Theme this year is “Passport to Adventure”. Cub Scout Day Camp is a full day of scouting activities, which include: skills, crafts, games, BB guns, archery, and lots of fun! Boys don’t have to be an active Cub Scout to participate in Day Camp, but they do have to register as a Cub Scout if you would like your son to participate. Cub Scout grade requirements are first grade through 5th grade. Camp Dates: June 11-15, 2018 from 8:00am-4:00pm with before/After care available. 251-476-4600

www.bsamac.org

Bright Beginnings Learning Center Providence

6803 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 Now enrolling for Summer Camp! This year’s exciting theme is “All Aboard Bright Beginnings Learning Center Cruise Ship - Cruising Through the Caribbean”. Campers will will enjoy swimming, skating, field trips, crafts, culinary arts and more. Camp is May 29-August 8. Camp days and hours are Monday - Friday, 6:00am - 6:00pm. Accepting enrollment for children ages 5 - 12 and Infant - K4. 251-776-5540 bblc_providence@yahoo.com www.bright-beginnings-learning-center-at-providencellc.business.site/

City of Mobile Summer Adventure Camp

Mobile, AL City of Mobile’s Parks and Recreation Special Activities Summer Adventure Camp. Registration begins April 2, 2018. Register early to secure your child’s spot at the Main Office of Parks and Recreation at 48 North Sage Avenue. 251-208-1651; 251- 208-1668 www.cityofmobile.org/parks/special_activities.php

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St. Pius X Summer Camp

217 South Sage, Mobile, AL 36606 The St. Pius X Summer Camp offers a fun, safe, and exciting environment for children during their summer vacation. Students participate in various activities and crafts. A lunch as well as morning and afternoon snacks are provided. We are located on the West Campus of St. Pius X. We are open Monday-Friday from 7 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. Registration information and forms may be obtained in the school or church offices. Camp begins Tuesday, May 29. for more info contact Theresa Javel. 251-471-2301

tjavel@stpiustenth.com

The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast

Dayspring Baptist Summer Day Camp

2200 Cody Road South, Mobile, AL 36695 For children entering K5 through 6th Grade. Exciting activities await those who attend Dayspring Day Camp! Each week, campers will swim, skate, and go on field trips. In addition to special activities such as juggling, arts and crafts, drama, and talent shows, there will be recreation, movies, music, and numerous other creative activities. We will have special weeks such as “Christmas in July” and “Parent’s Night”. Opens May 29. Hours: 6:45am-6:00pm. (Activities from 8:30am-4:30pm) $22 per day or $110 per week with $155 due at registration (includes a non-refundable registration fee and first week’s tuition/total to register before May 1 is $150). 251-633-0250

www.dayspring.church/summer-day-camp

Government Street Baptist

3401 Government Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36693 Summer Camp is for children who have completed K4 - 5th grade. The theme this year will be “Run the Race” based on Hebrews 12:1-2. Dates are May 29-August 3, 2018. Camp is open from 6:00am 6:00pm, Monday through Friday, with most activities scheduled between the hours of 8:30am and 4:00pm. Every week will be packed full of many exciting things like skating, swimming, bowling, arts and crafts, a weekly sport, elective classes such as science and cooking, a big field trip for each age group, and much more. The registration fee of $160 will cover the field trips and a camp tshirt. 251-660-7444 deboraheddie@gsbc.onmicrosoft.com www.governmenstreetcdc.org

Life Church CDC Summer Camp

8701 Zeigler Boulevard , Mobile, AL 36608 This years theme will be “Wild for Summer” Our program is Monday thru Friday 6:00am-6:00pm for completed K3 thru completed 6th grade. We offer lots of fun activities for our campers. We have weekly field trips, daily arts and crafts, praise and worship, themed dress up days, water slides, and so much more! 251-633-2679

www.lifechurchcdc.com

Mobile Christian School - Day Camp

5900 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile, AL 36609 Mobile Christian School will be offering Summer Day Camp beginning in June. Day Camp will be open Monday-Friday 7:30am-5:30pm for children who have completed K3 thru age 11. Daily activities are offered both on and off campus including activities such as bowling, skating, swimming, movies, Pump it Up, Jumps A Lot, Lazer Zone, and Chuck E Cheese. These off campus activities are included in the regular summer camp fee along with 2 daily snacks. 251-406-0768 april_walker@mobilechristian.org www.mobilechristian.org

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

28788 North Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526 2018 Exceptional Foundation Gulf Coast’s Summer Program dates are June 4th - July 26th from 8am - 6pm, Monday – Thursday. Our program is open to individuals ages 10 - 21. There is a one time registration fee of $50.00 and the Summer Program fee is $325.00/month. EFGC is a non profit 501 (c) (3) program that provides social and recreational opportunities for the special needs communities of Baldwin and Mobile counties. Follow us on Facebook & Twitter.

251-625-8955 Jennifer.flad@exceptionalfoundationgc.org www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org

West Mobile Baptist CDC Summer Camp

7501 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 West Mobile Baptist CDC Summer Camp is for children ages 6-11 and is open from 6:00am – 6:00pm. We have two summer programs. One is for school age children who have completed K4 and K5 (or are the appropriate ages for this) and the other is for those children who have completed the 1st through 5th grades (Up to age 11). The registration fee must be paid by those who are not already registered in our yearly full time program and entitles the student to care only during the summer months. There is an activity fee which includes all field trips. Weekly rates includes two snacks daily but please note, a hot lunch each day is no longer included. All students will need to bring a sack lunch daily. 251-639-6868

www.wemochurch.org

YMCA Summer Camps and Programs

951 Downtowner Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36609 Join the Best Summer Ever at the YMCA. Camp participants enjoy a variety of imaginative activities that nurture their spirits, challenge their minds, and strengthen their bodies all while learning about themselves and the world around them. The Y’s summer camp is packed with the best activities that include fun field trips, park days, sports, swimming, arts and crafts, Christian Emphasis, character development, STEM and much more all while learning the importance of healthy choices and active lifestyles. Fun for kids, peace of mind for parents your children will be in a fun and safe environment and be cared for by our fully trained staff. Sign up for you child’s favorite “Themed Week” or join us for the entire summer for the “Best Summer Ever”. YMCA summer camp is for school aged children ages 5-14. Fill your child’s summer with the best experiences and new friends. Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm. 251-344-4856

www.ysal.org

YMCA Summer Camps and Programs

92 Saraland Loop, Saraland, AL 36571 Join the Best Summer Ever at the YMCA. Camp participants enjoy a variety of imaginative activities that nurture their spirits, challenge their minds, and strengthen their bodies all while learning about themselves and the world around them. The Y’s

summer camp is packed with the best activities that include fun field trips, park days, sports, swimming, arts and crafts, Christian Emphasis, character development, STEM and much more all while learning the importance of healthy choices and active lifestyles. Fun for kids, peace of mind for parents your children will be in a fun and safe environment and be cared for by our fully trained staff. Sign up for you child’s favorite “Themed Week” or join us for the entire summer for the “Best Summer Ever”. YMCA summer camp is for school aged children ages 5-14. Fill your child’s summer with the best experiences and new friends. Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm. 251-344-4856

www.ysal.org

Educational/ Miscellaneous Camps Alabama School of Math and Science ad on page 49

The Adventures in Math and Science Summer Camp

1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Don’t waste your summer! Spend it at The Adventures in Math and Science summer camp at the Alabama School of Math and Science in Mobile, AL. Learn while you have fun! Kayak Mobile Bay. Design a maze. Build a smart phone app. Solve a crime. Prepare for the ACT. Learn how to make jewelry. Build a robot. Launch a rocket and much more! There is something for everyone! Who can enroll? Open to students entering the 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th grades. Non-Alabama residents are also eligible to apply. This year, AIMS will run for three sessions. Students can sign up for one, two, or three weeks. Session 1 (June 4-8), Session 2 (June 11-15), and Session 3 (June 18-22) are all overnight or day camps. Day camp is 8:00 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Overnight Camp is $385 per week (all inclusive - meals, classes, activities, and lodging). The weekend stay between Week 1-2 or Week 2-3 are an additional $185, which includes trip to a water park (weather permitting) and other fun activities. Day Campers: $285 per week (this includes tuition and lunch). A $25 discount will apply (one per student) if application and all applicable forms are received by April 1. 251-441-2152 www.asms.net

admissions@asms.net

Blue Bird Therapy - Handwriting and Social Skills Camps ad on page 32

6157 Airport Blvd, Suite 205, Mobile, AL 36608 Handwriting Heroes Camp - June 18-22. Handwriting, Sensorimotor & Social Skill Development Camp - “Print Camp” (ages 4-6) 10:00am-12:00pm, “Cursive Camp” (ages 7-10) 2:00pm-4:00pm, Building Buddies - June 4-8. Building, Creating & Developing Social Skills Ages 5-9 — 10:00am-12:00pm Ages 10-15 — 2:00pm-4:00pm. Register by May 11. 251-287-0378 bluebirdtherapy@gmail.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Dauphin Island Sea Lab  ad on page 67

101 Bienville Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36528 See listing under Overnight Camps for details. 251-861-2141 (ext. 7515) www.disl.org

sejohnson@disl.org

Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center ad on page 10

65 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602 Experience the most amazing, science-based sum-

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mer camps in Mobile! Summer camps at the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center are a great way to keep budding young minds engaged all summer long. Our camps are extensive in subject matter and cater to ages 4-14 years of age. Summertime is always full of learning fun at the Gulf Coast Exploreum! Our camp highlights: Ages 4-5 – Jurassic Junior, Natural Wonders, Music Makers, Astro-tots, Ages 6-8 – Dino Dig, Kitchen Chemistry, Launch It, Junior Med, Ages 9–11 – Mad Scientist, Engineering Exploration, Wizardry, Art of Monster Science, Ages 12–14 – Get with the Program, Printing off the Page, Innovations, AirBus Flight Academy. Download our 2018 Camp Guide for a full list of camps, schedule, registration forms and more. Space is limited and fills up fast so don’t delay! visit www.exploreum.com and register today! 251-208-6893 hfreeman@exploreum.com www.exploreum.com

BEST

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PROUDLY SERVING MOBILE, ALABAMA AND SURROUNDING AREAS, PICKETT ORTHODONTICS PERFECTS SMILES OF ALL AGES WITH CUSTOMIZED TREATMENT IN A RELAXED AND COMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT.

Huntington Learning Center ad on page 25

2370-D Hillcrest Road, Mobile, AL 36695 Why choose Huntington? Because we have the tools and experience to unlock your child’s academic potential and give you confidence in their future success. Huntington Learning Center is dedicated to not only meeting, but exceeding today’s top education standards. Corporate level and regional accreditation is a symbol of our organization’s commitment to integrity. We provide Tutoring, Test Prep, Personalized Attention and proven results.

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! 6611 Wall Street • Mobile, AL 36695 | 251.607.0110 - local | www.pickettortho.com 2620 College Ave. Jackson, AL 36545 | 877.660.1103 - toll free | info@pickettortho.com

251-439-5829 MobileAL@hlcmail.com www.huntingtonhelps.com

Junior MedCamp ad on page 48

Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government Street, Mobile, AL, AL 36602 Junior MedCamp is offering 2 exciting camps this summer! The first camp is June 28 open 10 to 12 year olds. Curious about health and medicine? Then this is the camp for you! Learn how to use instruments such as microscopes, stethoscopes, and blood pressure monitors to diagnose health conditions. Discover human anatomy through x-ray slides, models and real bone specimens. See how the art and science of health care has changed from prehistoric times through the present! The second camp is July 9 through 13 open to 7 to 9 year olds. What are the parts of the human skeleton? How do germs cause illness? What healing powers do blueberries, ginger and peppermint have? Campers will divide their time between the Exploreum and the Mobile Medical Museum investigating these and other health care topics through fun-filled experiments, games and storytelling. Includes a tour of the Ronald McDonald House. www.mobilemedicalmuseum.org

SchoolWorks ad on page 15

1811 Old Shell Road Building B, Mobile, AL 36607 Offering summer camps and programs to help with summer reading assignments, kindergarten and 1st grade preparation, ongoing tutoring, and enrichment lessons to stay on track or get ahead! We specialize in Tutoring, ADHD Coaching, Reading, Math, Organizational Skills, Study Skills, ACT, SAT prep, and Homeschool Facilitation. Camps begin June 12th on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Find us on Facebook! 256-252-8374

MARCH 22–25

Spa Tea Da

MOBILE, ALABAMA

ad on page 57

3938 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36606 Summer is so much fun at Spa-Tea-Da! Starting in mid-June we will have a mini day camp each week, tea party play dates, craft workshops, girls nite out and day spa specials. There is always something

P R OV I D E N C E H OS P I TA L C A M P U S F E S T I VA LO F F LOW E R S .CO M 59

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

11 – July 28 and July 9 - 26. Times: 8:30 – 11:30. Tutoring sessions are limited so reserve a spot today! Registration and Initial Assessment Fees: $75.00. Individual Session: $40.00. Small Group Session - (2 – 5 students): $25.00. Summer Literacy Camp - open to rising first graders to rising fifth graders. Monday - Friday. Week 1: June 18-22; Week 2: June 25-29. Two session times available: Morning session 8:45 - 12:00. Afternoon session is 12:45 - 4:00. $125 per session/camper (1/2 day) $225 both sessions/camper (full day). 251-380-2891 jmholland@southalabama.edu www.southalabama.edu/colleges/coe/ literacy-center/

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

fun brewing for everyone! Please see all of our events at www.spa-tea-da.com and subscribe to get notifications or find them on our Facebook event page. We are also available for parties and day spa appointments at your convenience Tuesday-Sunday. 251-447-4846

www.spa-tea-da.com

Summer Enrichment Camps at Cottage Hill Christian Academy ad on page 34

Cottage Hill Christian Academy, 4255 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile, AL 36609 Math Camp: July 23rd-26th (8:30- 11:45, students entering 3rd and 4th grades) This camp creates great concepts foundation that will be introduced in the next grade level. Math Factors Camp: July 23rd -26th (8:30- 11:45, students entering 5th and 6th grades) This camp covers most of the first semester concepts for the upcoming year. Pre-Algebra-Algebra Camp: July 16th – 19th (9:00-12:00). This camp gives your student a jump start for the upcoming curriculum, especially covering new concepts taught during the first semester. Study Skills Camp – June 25th – 28th (12:30-3:45, 4th- 6th grades) This camp increases the ability for the student to process information, analyze, recall information, and problem solve in a consistent way. Phonics & Reading Camp: June 11th – 14th (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. entering K5 thru 2nd grade) This camp coaches students in basic reading skills, including sounds, blends, letter combinations and phonetics. 251-689-6876; 251-610-7044

www.chcacademy.com

The Think Tank Tutoring ad on page 21

Mobile, AL Stay sharp this summer and stop the school struggles before they begin with affordable one-on-one private tutoring in your home. The Think Tank Tutoring and Educational Services is your solution. All subjects offered in grades K-12. We offer assistance with ADHD coaching, Homework Help and Test Prep. Specializing in Reading, Math, Algebra I&II, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Science, History and English. We use SOAR Study Skills and have Certified Teachers available. Our average student improves 2 letter grades in just 60 days! 251-414-4494 thinktankminds@gmail.com www.TheThinkTankTutoring.com

USA Literary Center Tutoring and Summer Camp ad on page 23

Mobile, AL 36608 Reading and Writing and Tutoring - First through high school. Individual and/or small group reading and writing tutoring Monday-Thursday from June Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

1204 Gulf Shores Parkway, Mobile, AL 36542 Zoo Camp offered to all elementary school age children, ages 5 to 11, in a full day session (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) conducted by licensed teachers and trained volunteers. Campers will explore animal life here at the Zoo, partake in animal enrichment activities, meet our zoo keepers, and even greet some of our animal residents personally. They will also participate in age-specific games, arts and crafts projects and special zoo-related events. There will be plenty of hands-on educational and fun activities carried out in a safe and educational environment. Zoo Camp registration opens in March and all details including pricing and forms are made available at that time. Zoo Camp is always the last full week in June.

language processing—the foundation of all communication and learning. For over 25 years, our intensive, process-based instruction has been used to strengthen the sensory-cognitive functions needed for reading and comprehension, and has proven successful for individuals with learning challenges, including dyslexia, ADHD, and ASD. 251-473-6808 mobile.center@lindamoodbell.com www.lindamoodbell.com

Mobile Parks and Recreation Community Activities

Mobile, AL Educational Camps and Classes. Tutoring, ACT Classes, Computer Classes and much more. 251-208-1607 www.cityofmobile.org/parks; www. communityactivitiesprogram.com

Naval Aviation Museum Flight Adventure Deck Summer Camp

1750 Radford Blvd. Suite B, Pensacola, AL 32508 Our flagship program blends the culture and excitement of aviation with 21st century technology and core competencies in an exclusive, entertaining and engaging immersive environment to provide a best in the world learning adventure. Students who have completed 6th grade but have not yet graduated high school live for six days in a multi-story structure. The National Flight Academy ignites imagination and encourages learning. 6 day deployments for 2018: June 3-8, June 10-15, June 17-22, June 24-June 29, July 1-6, July 8-13, July 15-20, July 22-27, July 29-August 3 and August 5-10. Cost for one 6-day Overnight Deployment is $1,250. Naval Aviation Museum Foundation Mem-

Environmental Studies Center

6101 Girby Road, Mobile, AL 36693 Summer Day camps throughout the summer months for grades 1-8. 251-221-5000 (Extension 2) www.mcpsesc.com

lsa8103@mcpss.com

Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes

2864 Dauphin Street Suite D, Mobile, AL 36607 Lindamood-Bell helps children and adults improve

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251-210-1632 ext. 104 info@americanautismcenter. com www.AmericanAutismCenter.com

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251-968-5732 info@algulfcoastzoo.org www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.com

8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 The American Autism and Rehabilitation Center is proud to host a number of programs this summer. Camps available for ages 3-5 years, K-2nd grades, and 3rd-6th grades will focus on language development, social skills, and peer interaction. Camps available for ages 7th -10th grades highlight peer interaction while teaching coping strategies (i.e. emotional intelligence, anger management, etc.). No diagnosis is required to participate. Preschool Language Camp – 5 weeks available K-2nd grade Language/Social Skills Camp – 5 weeks available; 3rd-6th grade Social Skills camp-2 weeks available, 7th – 10th grade Social Skills/Emotional Regulation Camp - 2 weeks available.

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850-453-2389 (ext. 3234) mvickers@navalaviationmuseum.org www.NavalAviationMuseum.org

Ocean Camp

4776 Main Street, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Summer Day Camps are in June & July. Ocean Camp is a hands-on education program for ocean lovers and future marine scientists ages 5-12 years old and Counselors in training ages 13-15. Each 4-day session offers marine science topics about Alabama’s coastal environment. Camps are Tuesday - Friday. Help make your child’s beach experience a memory they won’t forget! 251-802-8605 OceanCamp@gmail.com www. facebook.com/oceancamp/info

Revelation Summer Enrichment Program

1711 Taylor Lane, Mobile, AL 36605 Revelation Summer Enrichment Program will focus on the subject areas of Reading and Math in a fun and educational way for grades Kindergarten-5th grade. Snacks will be provided. The dates for the

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program are June 25-July 13th from 8-12 PM. Applications may be completed at Revelation Missionary Baptist Church. Space is limited!! 251-473-2333

www.rmbcmob.org

St. Paul’s Episcopal School – Summer Fun and Learning

161 Dogwood Lane, Mobile, AL 36608 St. Paul’s Episcopal School will offer Summer School and Enrichment classes (Math and reading refreshers, study skills, personal finance/life skills, minecraft, programming, music and more!) beginning in June. There are several Athletic Camps for all ages too. Including Basketball, Baseball, and Volleyball in June and Football and Soccer in July. We also offer a Summer Cheer Clinic for grades PreK – 6! Summer Music Lessons On Campus - Extra-Curricular Music Director Melissa Laster (mlaster@stpaulsmobile.net) will offer music lessons in Violin/Viola, Piano, and Guitar this summer. Registration forms are online. More classes and events will be added throughout the spring; please visit our website for updates! 251-622-7962 jdrum@stpaulsmobile.net www.stpaulsmobile.net/summer-on-campus

The Cookery

4456 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36608 Summer cooking camps Tuesday-Fridays from 9:00am-12:00pm most weeks through the Summer. Our camps are perfect for children of all skill levels. Activities include mystery basket challenges, grocery games and much more. Cost per week is $150 per child. We strongly recommend registering in advance in order to ensure a spot as space limited. 251-654-7646 info@thecookerymobile.com www.thecookerymobile.com

U.S. Space Camp & Aviation Challenge One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805 More details under Overnight Camps. 800-637-7223

www.spacecamp.com

WildNative ECO Camp

Offers educational and fun opportunities for upcoming 7th to 12th grade students. ECO stands for Exciting Coastal Opportunities because of the many activities the students get to experience. Participants will learn about the local environment, marine biology, ecology in a hands-on setting all while gaining experience for a career related field. We offer week long and weekend only camps with both day and overnight options. 844-900-CAMP www.wildnativetours.com/wildnative-camps/

Horseback Riding Riverview Camp for Girls ad on page 68

757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 See listing under Overnight Camps for details 800-882-0722

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp for Girls

Sandstone Equestrian Center

606 Valley View Ranch Rd, Cloudland, GA 30731 Horse lovers’ paradise since 1954! A’top Lookout Mountain, for 50 girls, 8-17; 1 to 9 weeks, 600 acres, English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails. CHA instructors teach beginner to advanced riders. Spend 4-6 hours daily with your OWN camp horse. The Jones family are third generation horse lovers, camp administrators, and equine educators making girls dreams come true! 706-862-2231 info@valleyviewranch.com www.valleyviewranch.com

10727 El Nina Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 Day and Overnight Camps offered end of May through July. Ages 5-16. Silver Lining Farm has one of the best summer camp programs in the country. Being at the farm for 5 days, a student can learn what it would take 10 weeks to learn in regular lessons. Each student is worked with one on one as well as in a group setting with games, trail rides, taking horses in the lake, and many other great activities. The campers eat lunch together and hear stories that inform how to take care of horses and their medical needs. Swimming at the beautiful lake ends each camp day. 2018 Dates: May 28-June 1, June 4-8, June 11-15, June 18-22, June 25-29, July 9-13, , July 16-20, July 23-27. Cost per Rider: $480 per week – 8:00am until 2:00pm, $950 per week overnight – Mon 8:00am until Fri 2:00pm. 251-634-1229 horses@silverliningfarm.net www.silverliningfarm.net

www.riverviewcamp.com

ad on page 65

Mimi C. Peters Riding School at Silver Lining Farm – Summer Riding Camp

9450-A Jeff Hamilton Road, Mobile, AL 36608 During our summer camps campers will learn safety around horses, general horse care, the basics of English riding, barn work, and get to participate in games on horseback, swimming, and crafts. The campers are divided into groups to allow for more individualized riding attention. 2018 Summer Camp Dates – Beginner Camp 1 - June 4-7, Beginner Camp 2 - June 11-14, Beginner Camp 3 - June 25-28, End of Summer Camp - July 30-August 2 and Intermediate Camp - June 18-21. 251-633-8088

www.sandstoneequestriancenter.com

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bay, to the fascinating marshes, and Dauphin Island’s sunny beaches. See and do new things. Overnight Camps: Barrier Island Explorer (rising 5th-6th grade) June 3-6, June 10-13, July 8-11. Marine DeTECHtives (rising 6th-8th grade) June 20-22. Gulf Island Journey (rising 7th-9th grade) June 3-8, June 24-29, July 1-6, and July 22-27. Bay Voyager (rising 9th-12th grade) July 15-20 251-861-2141 (ext. 7515) sejohnson@disl.org www.disl.org

Dauphin Island Sea Lab Marine Science Course ad on page 67

Overnight Camps Alabama School of Math and Science

101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Marine Science Course for High School Students (current 9th-12 grade) June 10 – July 6. Live at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab and immerse yourself in the world of marine science. Learn by doing in the field, in the lab, and on the boat. You’ll have the chance to connect with DISL researchers, aquarists, and faculty. This course also offers science credit to students. sejohnson@disl.org

ad on page 49

251-861-2141 (ext. 7515) www.disl.org

The Adventures in Math and Science Summer Camp

Lake Forest Ranch

1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604 See listing under Educational Camps and Miscellaneous Camps for details. 251-441-2152

www.asms.net

Camp Beckwith ad on page 21

10400 Beckwith Lane, Fairhope, AL 36532 Summer Camp Sessions begin June 2, 2018 - July 29, 2018. Join us for spiritual growth, and memoryfilled summers through Summer Camp. Our camp sits among sweet gum trees and beautiful grasslands alongside the shores of Weeks Bay in Baldwin County. Beckwith offers overnight camps, training camp, sailing camp, and family camp for grades 1st – 12th. 251-928-7844 addie@beckwithal.com www.beckwithal.com

Camp Nakanawa for Girls ad on page 24

1084 Camp Nakanawa R, Crossville, TN 38571 Since 1920 Camp Nakanawa has been helping young ladies gain confidence and reach their full potential in a positive and fun-filled environment. Nakanawa, a private summer camp for girls, is located high on the Cumberland Plateau and enjoys clean fresh mountain air, an environment that is ideal for days spent outside. In two and four week sessions, girls make friends in their cabins, teams, and activity groups. Activities include horseback riding, canoeing, tennis, swimming, and more. To speak with campers and counselors in the Mobile area, please contact Catherine Inge at catherinemcphillips@gmail.com. 931-277-3711 catherinemcphillips@gmail.com www.campnakanawa.com/

Dauphin Island Sea Lab Summer Camp ad on page 67

101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL 36528 The Dauphin Island Sea Lab offers hands-on adventures with the best educational staff around. Overnight campers, 5th through 12th graders, discover coastal Alabama habitats from the beautiful Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

Riverview Camp for Girls ad on page 68

757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 Riverview is an all girl’s overnight camp in Mentone, Alabama, on top of Lookout Mountain. (45 minutes south of Chattanooga, 1.5 hours from Huntsville, Al and 2 hours from Atlanta, Nashville and Birmingham!) Riverview offers both one and two-week sessions all summer long for girls ages 6-16 years. Horse riding, swimming, nature trails, ropes, sports, arts and crafts, and much more! There are also weekend retreats for mother-daughter adventures. Camp runs from end of May – August 2018. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 800-882-0722 info@riverviewcamp.com www.riverviewcamp.com

Camp ASCCA  Easter Seals

5278 Camp Ascca Drive, Jacksons Gap, AL 36861 Camp ASCCA is Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults. ASCCA is a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation for children and adults with both physical and intellectual disabilities. Providing weekend and weeklong sessions, Camp ASCCA is open year-round. Located in Alabama on Lake Martin, Camp ASCCA offers campers a wide variety of recreational and educational activities. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, accessible waterslide, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a “splash pad”, outdoor adventure elements like the zip-line, and much more. 256-825-9226 amber@campascca.org www.campascca.org

ad on page 29

5326 Lake Forest Road, Macon, AL 39341 Located in the middle of a 53,000-acre pine forest on a beautiful 60-acre lake, Lake Forest Ranch is among the most beautiful settings in the south for a summer camp experience for children (ages 7-12) and teenagers (ages 11-18). LFR is an interdenominational evangelical camp that serves mostly church groups (though individual campers are welcome too) during the summer months beginning Memorial Day Weekend running to August. Horseback riding, tubing, a wonderful climbing wall, a thrilling zip line, a brand new big swimming pool, kayaking, a gym, tennis courts, archery, archery tag, crafts and many other fun activities all coupled with wonderful facilities, carefully selected godly college age staff members and a week jam packed with spiritual growth, inspiration, worship and deep friendships all add up to a life changing week of non-stop excitement and encouragement. One of the best parts of the camp experience at LFR is having deeply committed camp counselors who sincerely care about the children in their cabins and spend individual time with each of them to encourage them and pray for them. There are twelve exciting camp sessions available from which to choose. Visit the LFR website – www.lakeforestranch.com or call 662-726-5052 to discover the week that works best for your child or your church youth or children’s ministry group. 662-726-5052 info@lakeforestranch.com www.lakeforestranch.com

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Camp Cosby

2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road, Alpine, AL 35014 Camp Cosby will offer 8 Sessions throughout the summer for ages 6 - 16 years. Boys and girls have the opportunity to build self-esteem, grow, learn, and challenge themselves. Campers also learn to develop values such as caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Pool, lake adventures, horses, trials, team building, zip line, and much more! Specialty camps include Mini Bikes camps, wakeboarding, ski camps, wrangler and expedition camps. 800-85-COSBY cinfo@campcosby.org www.campcosby.org

Camp Dixie

Clayton, GA 30525 Camp Dixie is a traditional summer camp for boys and girls located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Northeast Georgia. Limiting our enrollment to around 70 campers, ages 6 to 15, allows us to emphasize the “family” atmosphere that we feel is so important. While providing a safe and supportive environment, Camp Dixie is a Christian summer

www.mobilebayparents.com

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camp and focus our program on character development. Our goal is to help everyone become the best version of themselves. 678-701-3052 info@campdixie.org www.campdixie.org

Camp Dixie

29711 Josephine Drive, Elberta, AL 36530 Camp Dixie Lutheran Outdoor Ministry is a place where campers are able to grow spiritually, physically, emotionally and intellectually, in a positive way by experiencing, reflecting and evaluating in an outdoor-based Christ centered program. Sessions run from June – July. We offer a special weekend Family Camp for 3yr olds thru 2nd grade with a parent. Weeklong sessions are available for 2nd-12th Grade. Swimming, Kayaking, Bible study, archery, challenge course, arts and crafts, campfires and more. Other activities may include large group games, sand volleyball and many more! Specialty camps including rocket and horse camp are also offered. Located on the beautiful Perdido Bay in Elberta, AL.

When you need it most, our solution-focused counseling can offer hope. Sometimes children facing emotional challenges may experience erratic behaviors such as aggression or difficulty concentrating, mood swings, even changes in appearance. If your family is struggling with issues like these, call BayView today. Our confidential, supportive professionals can help you restore your family’s quality of life.

251-987-1201 director@campdixieministries.org www. campdixieministries.org

Camp Mac for Boys and Girls

Located in the Talladega National Forest, 2671 Cheaha Road, Munford, AL 36268 Camp Mac gives kids a place to “learn stuff, do things, and have fun.” Camp gives children a unique opportunity to explore their strengths, to find their courage, and to reach out beyond their comfort zones in an environment that is wholesome, supportive, and surrounded by nature’s beauty. We have developed programs that are fun and challenging and that offer a deeply unforgettable camp experience. 256-362-7449 office@campmac.com www.campmac.com

Camp Marymount

1318 Fairview Boulevard, Fairview, TN 37062 For over seven decades Camp Marymount has provided the Nashville Diocese and families from all over the world a summer camp experience filled with community, faith, fun and simplicity on 340 acres of beautiful middle Tennessee land. We offer four overnight summer sessions – two for girls, and two for boys – to rising 1st graders thru rising 11th graders. Campers enjoy swimming and water sports, arts and crafts, horsemanship, archery, riflery, canoeing, drama and dance for girls, wrestling for boys, frisbee golf, working on the camp newsletter, and much, much more. Camp Marymount opens children’s eyes to nature and their surroundings. We give them time and space to try interesting hobbies, develop new skills and discover the beauty of the world around them. From sun up to , special friendships and great fun!

Fairhope 374 S. Greeno Road Fairhope, AL 36532

Mobile 1015 Montlimar Dr. Mobile, AL 36609

(251) 660-2360 · BayView-Associates.org BayView accepts most major insurances including PEEHIP and AllKids.

NOW REGISTERING K4 - 8th Grades for the 2018 – 2019 school year! Schedule your personalized school tour today!

615-799-0410 info@campmarymount.com www.campmarymount.com

Camp Scoutshire Woods, Girl Scout Camp

6051 Scoutshire Camp Rd N, Citronelle, AL 36522 All girls are invited to enjoy a week or a sampler with 2 nights at summer camp on the sand hills surrounded by pines and magnolias. Girls can participate in activities, such as horseback riding, archery, canoeing, crafts, hiking and swimming. All activities are designed to emphasize teamwork and leadership and promote girls of courage, confidence and character. Special sessions include STEM, Horsemanship, Oobleck and more. There is a Counselor in Training (CIT) program for girls in grades 10-12. A certified Red Cross Water Safety Instructor teaches swimming lessons. Camp Scoutshire Woods is accredited by the American Camp Association. 800-239-6636 bdavis@girlscoutssa.org www.girlscoutssa.org/camp

www.covenantschool.com or call 251-633-8055

Camp Seale Harris

500 Chase Park S, Ste 104, Birmingham, AL 36244 2018 Family Camps for Ages 0-18 plus family. Spring Family Weekend - April 13-April 15 ($375, Camp Grace, Mobile), Summer Family Weekend – May 11-13 ($575, Lake Martin) Lake Martin Fall

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

Camp Walkabout

171 Baylor School Road, Chattanooga, TN 37405 Camp Walkabout is the no-experience-necessary avenue to all things outdoors for kids ages 8-16 years old. Overnight Walkabout Camp sessions begin June 10 and run through July 7, 2018! Campers will climb the world renowned Tennessee wall sandstone one day, explore the amazing underground world of a cave the next and paddleboard the mighty Tennessee River Gorge another. Camp Walkabout optimizes every day to find new adventures, leadership opportunities and friendships that will last a lifetime. Camp Walkabout truly is the most fun a camper can have in the summer! 423-267-8506 ext. 827 badams@baylorschool.org www.baylorschool.org/summer

Camp Whispering Pines

Family Weekend – October 20-22 ($375, Lake Martin). 2018 Day Camp $175 (July 23-27) Mobile (Day Camps – 1 sibling or friends may register with child with diabetes and pay to attend) 2018 Overnight Camps – Senior Camp – June 2 - 8 (ages 12-18, $800, Lake Martin) Junior Camp – June 10-15 (ages 6-13, $800, Lake Martin) Coastal Camp – July 22-27 (ages 10-18 - $500, Mobile) *Children with diabetes only. 205-402-0415 info@campsealeharris.org www.campsealeharris.org

Camp Skyline

4888 Alabama Hwy 117, Mentone, AL 35984 Camp Skyline is a residential, summer camp in northern Alabama for girls between the ages of 6 and 16. We offer four 2-week sessions each summer as well as three 1-week mini-sessions for girls ages 6 – 8. We are a Christian camp and seek to do everything for the glory of God and the encouragement of our campers. 800-448-9279 info@campskyline.com w ww.campskyline.com

Camp Stanislaus

304 South beach Blvd, Bay St. Louis, MS 39520 Weekly from June 10 through July 7, 2018. Father and Son Camp July 7 & 8, 2018. Camp Stanislaus is Day and Resident Camp for boys and girls ages 8-15 years. Situated on the beautiful beaches of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the facilities are the same as those used by St. Stanislaus College Prep. These include two gyms, three tennis courts, a swimming pool, football stadium, baseball stadium, one thousand foot pier, recreational and TV rooms, dining hall, dormitory, classrooms, computer labs, weight room, art room, athletic fields, beach volleyball court, ski camp, health center, and unlimited sandy beaches. 228-467-9057 camp@ststan.com www.campstanislaus.com

Camp Victory

363 Victory Circle, Samson, AL 36477 Camp Victory is a non-denominational, non-profit organization. We are part of Children’s Bible Ministries (CBM), which is ministering in nine states and has its national office in Townsend, Tennessee. Camp Victory exists to help young people experience the victory that comes from knowing the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior and walking with Him. We do this by working alongside local churches in providing opportunities for Christian camping, Bible classes for local schools and Bible correspondence lessons. Activities include Swimming Pool, Volleyball, Bunker Ball, Riflery & Archery, Tetherball, Mini Golf, Canoes, Kayaks, Pedal Boats, Basketball, Crafts, Carpetball, Ping Pong, Foosball, Fishing, Low Ropes, Challenge Course, Indoor Climbing Wall, Bible Classes, Outdoor Education, Missionary Presentations, Chapel Services and Cabin Devotions. 334-898-7948 jmerhige@ymcamidtn.org www.campvictoryal.org

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

7740 Union St, Citronelle, AL 36522 Serving Christ by Serving Others, Serving Others by Sharing Christ. High quality, Christ-focused, affordable camps for kids and youth. 2018 Camps and Dates: Hoopla Day Camp- June 4 - 8; $99, Big Adventure Kids Camp- June 11 - 14; $160*, Girls Mission CampTBA; $157, Veritas Youth Camp- June 18 - 22; $230*, Momentum Kids Camp- June 16 - 19; $160* Registration is open to church groups and individual campers! We offer year round high ropes adventure course, low ropes team building course, paintball, indoor rock climbing wall, hiking trails, kayaks, archery and painting parties as well as dorm & hotel housing for church groups, school groups, corporate events & civic organizations. *Early Bird Rates are available if registered with deposit by certain dates.

251-866-7868

www.campwhisperingpines.com

Camp Widjiwagan

3088 Smith Springs Road, Nashville, TN 37013 Camp Dates are May 28 – August 8, 2018. Weekly Summer Camp for Boys and Girls from ages 7 – 15 years with a First Camp option for ages 5-7. Located on the shores of Percy Priest Lake, in Antioch, Tennessee, just 20 minutes from downtown Nashville. Camp Widjiwagan sits on 320 acres and 4 miles of shoreline at the Joe C. Davis YMCA Outdoor Center. Offering day, overnight and family retreats. Co-ed programs for rising 1st - 9th grades offered. Activities include team building, leadership, swimming/splash park, lake sports, horseback riding, team adventures, sports, zip line, and ski and equestrian schools and more! . 615-360-2267 mcrawforth@ymcamidtn.org www.campwidji.org

Camp Winnataska

260 Winnataska Drive, Pell City, AL 35218 Offering a wide variety of quality programs for boys and girls. Each camp session will provide campers the opportunity to experience aspects of outdoor life such as swimming, canoeing, arts, crafts, nature study, sports, archery, ropes course, hiking and camping, and horseback riding. Full week sessions and mini-camps; Ages 6-15 years old. 205-640-6741 info@winnataska.org www.winnataska.org

Camp Woodmont

381 Moonlight Drive, Cloudland, GA 30731 Camp Woodmont is a traditional overnight summer camp for boys and girls ages 6 - 14 years. Located on 170 acres of beautiful North Georgia woodlands on top of Lookout Mountain. Your summer camp experience provides cabin living, moderate summer daytime temperatures; cool evenings around the campfire, creative counselors, new friends, talent/skit nights, and a close family-like atmosphere. Counselor/camper ratio averages 1:5. One week and Two week camps offered. The non-denominational Christian atmosphere is appropriate for children of all faiths. Camp Woodmont

is ACA Accreditation and two generations of family management/ownership.

423-472-6070 alyson@campwoodmont.com www.campwoodmont.com

Kamp Kiwanis, Girl Scout Camp

2365 Kamp Kiwanis Road, Eclectic, AL 36024 Kamp Kiwanis, located on beautiful Lake Martin, offers 2 sessions of camp including one-week resident programs, 3-day 2-night programs, and day camps for girls in grades 2nd-12th grade. Kamp Kiwanis hosts specialty camps that focus on swimming and boating, as well as themed camps and Sail Away Camp. In addition to swimming and boating, campers will participate in traditional camp activities like archery, zip lining, hiking, crafts, and sailing (5th grade and up). Leadership Camp will also return for girls looking to earn their Program Aide or Counselor in Training awards. 800-239-6636 (ext. 2902) www.girlscoutssa.org

amurray@girlscoutssa.org

Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys

277 County Road 632, Mentone, AL 35984 Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys is a traditional summer camp. Our program includes: water sports (swimming, diving, canoeing, and our famous zip line), horseback riding, rifle marksmanship, archery, tennis, arts and crafts, even fly-fishing with much more...all under the supervision of excellent staff. Offering from 2-week to 8-week sessions from June 3th – July 28th. 256-634-4758; 504-861-1534 www.lookoutmountaincamp.com

Space Camp, Aviation Challenge Camp & Space Camp Robotics

One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805 Space Camp is the ultimate unique camp experience where trainees train like astronauts at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, the Official Visitor Center for NASA Marshall Space Flight Center. Aviation Challenge Camp immerses trainees in the fascinating realms of flight while learning about the basics of the military lifestyle. Space Camp Robotics trainees engineer and design robots for land, air and sea. Camp programs are offered from ages 7 – 100. Everyone from students, families, adults and educators can experience these exciting camps. 256-837-3400; 800-637-7223 camps@rocketcenter.com www.spacecamp.com/sc

Twin Lakes Camp

155 Milner Road, Florence, AL 39073 Camp Dates are June 4-9, June 11-16, June 18-23, June 25-June 30, July 2-7 and July 9-14. Twin Lakes Summer Camp is focused on providing an environment that is both safe and fun, while being intentionally grounded in Biblical teaching. For the past 45 years, Twin Lakes has shown the love of Christ to campers from a variety of backgrounds. During their session, each camper participates in each of our exciting activities - Horseback riding, Wild Wilderness Adventure, Games, Challenge Course, Riflery/Archery, Rock Climbing, Waterfront, Leather crafts and Kayaking. Biblical narratives serve as the theme each week, and come to life during assembly times as the whole camp experiences the story on Friday’s Bible adventure. The caring, highly qualified staff is carefully selected and genuinely enjoys developing relationships with each child and seeking to help him/her make the most of their week at camp. A medical doctor and healthcare staff oversee the health and safety of the camp program. 601-845-6858 info@twinlakescamp.org www.twinlakescamp.org

Wyldlife Camp

18115 SE 95th Street Road, Ocklawaha, FL 32179 Mobile Trip - June 2-6; Grades 6th-8th grade; $625 Ready for a week you will always remember? Come experience a place filled with fun, adventure, and plenty or surprises. A place where you can enjoy relaxing with your friends. A place made especially for you. 251-473-1703

www.mobile.younglife.org

www.mobilebayparents.com

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YMCA Camp Chandler

1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092 Conveniently located 25 miles from Montgomery, on beautiful Lake Jordan. Whether you are looking for individual, small group, or camp-wide fun, we definitely have something for you! Campers are grouped according to age and gender. Friendships grow as they live, share meals, laugh, and play together during a full week of fun! Campers are given the opportunity to participate in more than 20 different activities like horseback riding, skiing, archery, sailing, the high ropes course, and more. 5-15 years old. 334-269-4362 campchandler@ymcamontgomery.org www.campchandler.org

Sports Camps Christ United Methodist Church Summer Sports Camps ad on page 8, 41

6101 Grelot Road, Mobile, AL 36609 Christ United Recreation Ministry offers several sports camps during the summer months. Basketball, Cheer and Volleyball camps are offered. Register early because space is limited. Registration is only available in person at the rec desk. You may also print the forms from our website and bring them to register at the rec desk. 251-706-3326

www.christumcsports.com

Coach Kickken Soccer Basic Soccer Skills Camp ad on page 24

9565 Scott Dairy Loop Rd. S, Mobile, AL 36695 Boys and Girls ages 3 - 6. Coach Kickken Soccer teaches kids basic soccer skills through fun drills and enjoyable games. These drills are designed

to teach the fundamentals of soccer in a positive environment that is geared to keep kids focused, engaged and entertained. Your kids will get a great work out and Coach Kickken Soccer will help your child develop skills that will enable them to easily transition into more competitive leagues as they grow up. Coach Kickken’s unique approach to soccer skill development gives your child the confidence they need to explore the game of soccer in a supportive, safe environment. Parents are encouraged to participate on and off the field. 251-895-2389 coachkickken@gmail.com www.coachkickken.com

251-445-2900

www.mcgill-toolen.org

Oakwood Swim Team and Lessons ad on page 65

McGill Toolen Summer Sports Camps ad on page 15

ketball, boys and girls tennis and cheerleading.

1501 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36604 McGill will offer a large variety of sports camps this summer including baseball, track & field, football, boys basketball, co-ed soccer, volleyball, girls bas-

5260 Perin Road, Mobile, AL 36693 Oakwood sponsors a competitive Swim Team for all ages; Guppies – 5 year and under, Juniors – ages 6-14, and Seniors – ages 15-18. Morning and afternoon practices are available. The Swim Team competes in many meets throughout the season concluding with the Mobile City Championship Meet. Gloria Stewart will return for her 10th year as our Swim Team Director. Oakwood offers Swim les-

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swimmers with the tools for success that can be applied to their training and development throughout their careers. Outside of the pool, we have some great talks lined up covering a range topics including racing strategies, being mentally tough, health and wellness tips and special guests who will share their motivational stories. 334-844-4975 aucampdirector@ gmail.com www.auburnswimcamps.com

Auburn University Soccer Camp

sons; private and group. Sessions are as follows: June 4-15, June 18-29, July 9-20, mini session July 23-27; all sessions are offered in the morning or evening. Oakwood also sponsors a Dive team and offers Dive lessons. 251-666-4471

www.oakwoodmobile.com

Oakwood Tennis Camps ad on page 65

5260 Perin Road, Mobile, AL 36693 Michael O’Brien will be Oakwood’s 2018 Junior Tennis Camp coordinator. Camps are available for Boys and Girls, ages 6 and up. Please call 251-6664471 for specific camp dates and times. All above teams, lessons and camps are available to Oakwood Members and Non-members. Information and registration forms are also located on our website. 251-666-4471

www.oakwoodmobile.com

St. Luke’s Episcopal School Summer Sports Camps ad on page 5

3975 Japonica Lane; 1400 University Boulevard South, Mobile, AL 36693; 36609 St. Luke’s Varsity Athletic Department sponsors a variety of athletic camps throughout the summer for students of all age groups. Sports camps include football, basketball, baseball, volleyball, soccer and archery! Camp dates and costs will be posted on the school’s website (www.stlukesmobile.com) as soon as they become available. Early registration is recommended. 251-666-2991

www.stlukesmobile.com

Alabama Youth Sports Combine

2513 Leroy Stevens Road, Mobile, AL 36619 Alabama Youth Sports Combine is a sports training facility located in West Mobile offering classes, camps, open gym night and more! Other programs include football, baseball, soccer, and multi-sports conditioning. Whether you want your child to simply become a better ball player or want to get the athlete in your family trained for the big leagues, we offer sports training for youth, and adults. Also offering sports and physical fitness training for youth and adults. Find us on Facebook! 251-633-6263

www.alabamasportscombine.com

Auburn Swim Camp

664 Biggio Drive, Auburn, AL 36849 Brett Hawke and Sergio Lopez come together to lead the Auburn Swim Camps along with a staff of highly qualified, accomplished, and enthusiastic coaches, counselors and collegiate swimmers. Brett Hawke’s coaching staff will combine the best of the Auburn Camp Tradition while incorporating the techniques used to create champions across the globe. This camp will feature technique instruction which will provide Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

650 Lem Morrison Drive, Auburn, AL 36849 Goalkeeper & Striker Camp – Boys and Girls, Ages 11-18, $250, June 8-9. Auburn Soccer June Residential Camp – Girls only, Ages 9-18, $375, June 10-13. Auburn Soccer June Residential Camp I – Girls only, Ages 9-18, $475, June 10-13. Elite Camp –Girls only, Ages 13-18, $425, July 1-15 Auburn Soccer July Day Camp – Boys and Girls, Ages 5-12, $130, July 9-12. Auburn Soccer July Residential Camp I - Boys and Girls, Ages 9-15, $475, July 15-18. Auburn Soccer July Residential Camp I (Commuter Camp) - Boys and Girls, Ages 9-15, $375, July 15-18.

334-844-9637 soccercamp@auburn.edu www.abcsportscamps.com/ausoccer/

Auburn University Sports Camps

Auburn, AL 36849 Auburn sports offer official camps and clinics throughout the year. From football and basketball to tennis and swimming, you will learn fundamentals of team play, sportsmanship and skills of the sport ...all from Auburn coaches and players. 334-844-4975 aucampdirector@gmail.com www.auburntigers.com/camps

Challenger Sports’ British Soccer Camp

951 Downtowner Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36609 Challenger Sports’ British Soccer Camp is the most popular soccer camp in the country based upon one of the most innovative approaches to coaching youth soccer in the US and Canada. Dates have not been set as of this printing. Please visit the website for camp updates. www.challengersports.com/summer-camps

Graham’s Elite Martial Arts

1121 Dawes Road, Mobile, AL 36695 Summer doesn’t have to be boring. Mobile Summer Camp at Graham’s Elite Martial Arts makes it amazing with Character Development, Fitness and Fun. 251-633-7837 summer-camp

www.grahamselitemartialarts.com/

LSU - Athletic Youth Camps

Baton Rouge, LA 70803 LSU will offer several youth sports camps this summer. All camps will be held in our brand new LSU Practice Facility and the legendary Pete Maravich Assembly Center. Register early as camps fill up quickly. Visit the website above for information on specific camp details. LSU Athletic department will offer baseball, cheerleading/dance, football, basketball, golf, gymnastics, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball camps. 225-578-8217 bfd1@lsu.edu www.lsusports.net/camps

Michael Brisbane Golf Instruction

1000 Gaillard Road, Mobile, AL 36608 Golf lessons, clinics and golf fitness classes.

251-490-3812 michael@michaelbrisbanegolf.com www.michaelbrisbanegolf.com

MMAD Youth Basketball Camp

Cottage Hill Baptist Church, 4255 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile, AL 36609 MMAD Youth Basketball Camp, Grades 1-3 June 25-28, 9:00am – 12:00pm; Grades 4-6, 1:00pm – 4:00pm. Cost of the camp is $75 each. Includes a Camp T-shirt. Email: dianec@cottagehill.org for more information or call (251) 662-8650. 251-662-8650 dianec@cottagehill.org www.cottagehill.org/sports-outreach

Mobile Parks & Rec. Community Activities

Mobile, AL Many sports camps are offered in various locations around Mobile. 251-208-1617

www.cityofmobile.org/parks

Mobile Tennis Center

851 Gaillard Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 Offering summer clinics. 251-208-5181

www.mobiletenniscenter.net

Spring Hill College Basketball Camps

Arthur R Outlaw Rec Center, 4000 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36608 Springhill College offers numerous summer sports camps. Spring Hill College Basketball Kids’ Camp for Boys and Girls Ages 7-18. June 18-21, 2018. Ages: 7-12 8am-12pm. Ages: 13-18 1pm - 5pm. Cost: $150. Location: Arthur R Outlaw Rec Center (on campus of Spring Hill College). 251-380-4454 bmurphy@shc.edu www.camps.jumpforward.com/shchoops

Spring Hill College Sports Camps

4000 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36608 Springhill College offers numerous summer sports camps. Please check our website for information on soccer, baseball, softball and volleyball camps. www.camps.jumpforward.com/shcwsoccercamps; www.shcbadgers.com

St. Paul’s Episcopal School Summer Sports Camps

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The Ballpark Mobile

14061 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 We offer lessons in baseball, softball, soccer fast speed and agility and camps and clinics. 251- 694-2888 info@theballparkmobile.com www.theballparknj.com

UMS-Wright

65 Mobile Street, Mobile, AL 36607 UMS-Wright Preparatory School is once again offering a variety of sports camps this summer. . Each camp costs $100 unless otherwise noted. Cheerleading- June 4-7, Mon – Thurs., 9:00am – Noon (Rising grades K5-6). Baseball – June 4-7 Mon – Thurs., 9:00 a.m. – Noon (Rising grades 1 – 8). Pitching - June 8 (Friday) 9:00 a.m. - Noon (Rising Grades 1 – 8) ($50) Girls’ and Boys’ Golf – June 15 (Friday) 9:00am – Noon (Rising Grades K5-6) ($50) Girls’ BasketballJune 18 -21, Mon. – Thurs., 9:00am – Noon- (Rising Grades 2 – 8). Boys’ Basketball- June 11 – 14, Mon. – Thurs., 9:00am – Noon- (Rising Grades 1 – 7). Girls’ & Boys’ Soccer- June 25– 28, Mon. – Thurs., 9:00am – Noon (Rising Grades 1 – 6). Girls’ and Boys’ Track & Field - June 25 – 28, Mon. – Thurs., 9:00am- Noon (Rising Grades 4 - 6). Fast Pitch Softball – July 9 - 12, Mon. – Thurs., 9:00am – Noon (Rising Grades 1-6). Football Pup Camp – July 9 - 12, Mon.-Thurs. 9:00am - Noon (Rising grades 1-4) Terry Curtis Football –July 23 - 26, Mon.-Thurs., 9:00am-Noon (Rising grades 5-8). Dance Camp – July 23 - 26, Mon.-Thurs., 9:00am-Noon (Rising Grades K4-8). Jr. VolleyballJuly 30 – August 2, Monday – Thurs. 9:00am - Noon (Rising Grades 3-6) MS Volleyball – July 30 – August 2, Monday Thurs. 9:00am - Noon (Rising 7-8). Registration forms are available at www.ums-wright.org, in the UMS-Wright Athletic Office, or via email. 251-470-9045 mnordmann@ums-wright.org www.ums-wright.org

www.mobilebayparents.com

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University of Alabama Sports Camps

Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 The University of Alabama is offering several exciting sports camps including Nick Saban Football Camp, Baseball, Cheer/Dance, Mascot, Golf, Tennis, Gymnastics, Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball, Track and Field, Softball and Swimming and Diving. www.rolltide.com

University of Mobile RAMS Soccer Camps

5735 College Parkway, Mobile, AL 36613 Rams Soccer Camps at The University of Mobile offer individual, team, full day and residential camp options. Camp sessions aim to improve technical, tactical and mental aspects of the game. The rigorous schedule will demand a high level of participation and competition. The residential camp also offers goalkeeper training. Players gain valuable insight from college coaches, staff and other players to help reach the next level. UM Co-Ed Residential Camp ages 8-18: June 3-7, & July 8-12, 2018. $390.00 for Residential (Overnight); $280 for Full Day Camper (8am-8:00pm); $230 for 3/4 Day Camper (8am-4:00pm). Individual camp registration deadline: May 31, 2018. Team Camp registration deadline: May 6, 2018. Boys High School Team Camp June 17-19, 2018. Girls High School Team Camp June 24-26, 2018. Residential cost $225; Commuter (7:30am-8pm) $190. Camp Registrations available online. 251-442-2396

www.ramssoccercamps.com

University of South Alabama Amy Hendrichovsky Volleyball Camps

Jaguar Gym, 171 Jaguar Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 The University of South Alabama Volleyball team would love to extend an invitation to work with your volleyball program this summer! Last summer was a great time for us to help grow the sport of volleyball and help pass knowledge on

www.amyhendrichovskyvolleyballcamps.com

University of South Alabama Boys Basketball Camps

Jaguar Gym, 171 Jaguar Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 2018 Boys Basketball Camps - Individual Camp 1 June 18-21 Individual Camp 2 - June 25-28 (grades 2nd-8th) www.jaguarsmensbasketball.com

University of South Alabama Girls Basketball Camps

ment. Lunch is provided each day and campers will receive a t shirt and ball.

www.terryfowlergirlsbasketballcamps.com

University of South Alabama Richard Moodie’s Soccer Academy

5950 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36608 Soccer Camps are held each summer. Kids Summer Camps – 06/04/2018 – 06/07/2018 (ages 5-12 boys and girls, $100, 8:00am-10:00am), 06/11/2018 – 06/14/2018 (ages 5 -12 boys and girls, $100, 8:00am-10:00am) College ID Camp 06/15/2018 – 06/18/2018 (grades 8-12, girls only Residential $375, Commuter - $325), and Team Camp (grades 8-12, girls only) June 22 – 25. www.richardmoodiesocceracademy.com

Jaguar Gym, 171 Jaguar Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 2018 Camps: Team Play Dates- June 7, 8, 15. Open to high school varsity, JV, and AAU/club girls basketball teams. *Note: high school teams will not play against AAU/club teams* Cost: $250 or $200 per day for multiple days. Each player and up to two coaches will receive a t shirt. 3 game minimum guarantee and AHSAA officials will be used. All games will played on the South Alabama campus. College Prep Camp - June 16, Open to girls entering grades 9-12 for the 2018-19 school year. Cost: $50. Designed to have the same intensity as a Division I college basketball practice. Attendees will experience individual skills and group drills similar to a typical practice for the South Alabama women’s basketball practice. Head coach Terry Fowler and his staff will serve as instructors for the camp held on campus at South Alabama. Each camper will receive a t shirt. Fundamentals & Shooting Camp - June 11-14. Open to girls entering grades 3-8 during the 2018-19 school year. Cost: $220. Early Bird registration: $200 if registered before June 1, 2018. The FUNdamentals & Shooting Camp is designed to provide an environment for campers to learn the basic fundamentals of basketball in a fun environ-

University of South Alabama Steve Campbell Football Camps

South Alabama Football Complex, Mobile, AL 36608 The University of South Alabama offers many sport camps for area youth. Steve Campbell Football Camps -www.jaguarfootballcamps.com. Football Camps at the University of South Alabama offer a wide variety of learning opportunities for football players. 2018 Summer Camp Information – Prospect Camp #1 06/02/2018 (grades 9th – College Sophomore), Youth Football Camp 06/07/2018 06/08/2018 (grades 1st - 8th), OL/DL/Skill Position Camp 06/10/2018 - 06/12/2018 (grades 9th - 12th, ), Prospect Camp #2 06/13/2018 (grades 9th - College Sophomore), Prospect Camp #3 06/16/2018 (grades 9th - College Sophomore) and Specialist Camp #1 06/16/2018 (grades 9th – College Sophomore). www.jaguarfootballcamps.com

University of South Alabama Track and Field Camp 1209 Mitchell Center, Mobile, AL 36608 Azalea City Summer Track & Field Camp –

Marine Science Course for High School Students June 10 July 6, 2018 Immerse yourself in the world of marine science.

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about the game. All Skills Camp 06/18/2018 – 06/20/2018 (grades 5-12), Position Training Camp 07/16/2018-/7/17/2018 (grades 7 – 12) Team Camp 07/12/2018-07/13/2018.

Learn by doing - in the field, in the lab, and on the boat Connect with DISL researchers, aquarists, and faculty Live at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab For current 9th through 12th graders Learn more at disl.org/dhp/summer or call 251-861-2141 x7515 or email DHPSummer@disl.org.

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day will conclude with small sided games and scrimmages that focus on tactical development. Registration online. 251-689-6876; 251-610-7044 richardsonbrandon@chbss.org www.chcacademy.com

Swimming & Water Fun City of Mobile Swim Association

07/11/2018 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 07/14/2018 (ages 9-19, $120 price will increase after 06/04) www.jagfieldcamp.com

Warrior Soccer Camp

Cottage Hill Christian Academy, 7355 Creekwood Drive, Mobile, AL 36695 Warrior Soccer Camp â&#x20AC;&#x201C; June 25th -28th (9:0010:30am, students in K5-3rd Grade and 12:002:00pm, students in 4th-6th Grade) The 2018 CHCA Warrior Summer Soccer Camp will be held at the CHCA West Campus soccer field from June 25-June 28th. The cost of the camp is $70 per camper and includes a camp T-shirt. The camp will focus on technical development in the areas of passing, dribbling, trapping, and shooting. Each

351 North Broad South, Mobile, AL 36603 The City of Mobile Swim Association offers training and practice groups for swimmers of all ages and ability levels. We work to offer age specific training for all of our athletes geared towards challenging each individual and developing each individual to the best of THEIR abilities. We believe in a building a program from the novice level, and try to make swimming not only a sporting choice but a fun, healthy lifelong activity. www.swimcmsa.com

Gulf Coast Swimfants

2423 Schillinger Road South, Mobile, AL 36695 Infants (6 months- 12 months old) will to be taught to hold their breath underwater, roll onto their back, float unassisted, rest, and breathe, perform these skills fully clothed. Children (1 year - 4 years old*) will be taught to: hold their breath underwater, swim with their head down and eyes open, roll onto their back, to float unassisted,

roll back over and resume swimming, repeat the swim-float-swim sequence to reach safety, and to perform these skills fully clothed. The program for infants is 4 weeks and for toddlers is 6 weeks. All children learn the skills at different rates. Therefore, we recommend a 4 to 6 week class. In order to enroll your child, you will be required to complete our Online National Registration Process for each child. If you need evening lessons, Meg Johnson, certified ISR instructor, will begin teaching evening lessons after 5:20 p.m. starting in June. For class dates and times email her at m.johnson@infantswim.com. Those timeslots will fill up fast! Please call or email us for detailed information. 251-391-4799 www.infantswim.com www.swimfants.com

Mobile Bay Sailing School

4295 Marina Drive North, Mobile, AL 36605 The Mobile Bay Sailing School, has been teaching sailing and basic seamanship skills to kids between the ages of 8 and 18 since 1982. This program is open to anyone who has an interest in learning about this wonderful sport. The program offers classes in Optimist and 420 class sailboats for beginner and experienced sailors, with opportunities for advanced students to race both classes of the boats in local regattas. Students will develop basic nautical knowledge, boat handling skills, and respect toward the sea, weather and wind. The Mobile Bay Sailing School will offer one-week training sessions with the first session beginning June 4. 420 classes are one week, all-day sessions Monday through Friday. Optimist classes are generally for the younger children and are week long half-day sessions. Price is $300 per weekly session. Half day sessions are $150. 251-471-3131 www.mobilebaysailingschool.com/ MBP

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Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

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Goofy Games That Get in Your Head

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Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

by Gerry Paige Smith

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Speak Out: Kids vs Parents

Outside the regular rotation of traditional board games, there is a subset of brilliant games that thrive on the absurd. Tossing aside all decorum and dignity, these head-themed entertainments blaze their own trail into the realm of the ridiculous. Employing the tools of slapstick and physical comedy, players face hilarious challenges with no shame and all the exuberance of youth. Ideal for breaking the ice, party gaming or injecting family game night with fresh hilarity, the following games go to the head of the class for comic competition.

Moustache Smash (Spin Master)

(Hasbro)

Selecting and memorizing your false moustache is just the beginning of this fast-paced match game, as players seek to smash their ‘stache onto the turning cards that duplicate the style or color of their own. If you’re first (and correct) on the smash, you keep the card. But when the Moustache Pass card turns, all players pass their moustache style to the left and that’s when things really get hairy. Despite having the answer right under your nose, keeping up with the changing style and color of your own moustache adds a farcical challenge to this fast-paced smackdown. The player with the most cards when the pile is gone, wins the smash. Keeping in mind that sudden and silly facial hair makes everything better,the mounting tension of this game make it an easy pick for fast fun from the gaming shelf!

Egged On: The Game of Egg Roulette

Pie Face Showdown

Dignity is the first thing to go in this popular game that challenges our most basic speech abilities. Wearing clear plastic mouthpieces players draw a phrase card and try to speak coherently enough to be understood by their teammates. Racing against a timer, the challenge to form words without the use of your lips takes on a desperation that is both maddening and hilarious. Designed for joint play between parents and kids, this version employs to delightful effect 200 doublesided phrase cards that echo the speech of parents (“This place is a pig sty”) and kids (What a bummer, brother”). There’s a fair amount of drool that comes along with the struggle to make yourself understood during game play. But the sheer physical comedy of this celebration of miscommunication is worth every single spoken word.

(Hasbro)

It takes a bit of bravery to offer up your own face as a target for pie. But the two-player Pie Face Showdown makes it a bit easier as the risk and reward is shared between two players. With two bright cut-outs for players’ faces, the ‘pie’ (watered sponge) is loaded on the throwing arm. Then each player, face exposed, begins frantic button mashing that will unpredictably launch the pie into one player’s face. The throwing arm is also adjustable so that young children can enjoy a more balanced game against faster, more advanced players. The game includes the pie sponge that can be moistened, but whipped cream (not included) is a sweet option, too. There’s no strategy, no long game, no sedate pacing here. Just the excitement and suspense of knowing a pie is incoming, and the destination face is a mystery...until it hits.

(Hasbro)

Ten eggs in a plastic carton and you must pick one. Some eggs are safe, but some are full of water. With a spinner to direct the choosing, the game play is simple. Players take turns picking plastic refillable eggs from the carton and smashing them on their head. Once you acknowledge that the players are enjoying a juvenile pleasure of smashing eggs on heads, the fun is free to flow. Best played with the under-ten set, this slapstick entertainment maximizes childlike glee as eggs are gently smashed, cracked and tapped on heads to reveal their secret. The amount of water is really small, so the mess is minimal. Ideal for the energetic kids who need an ‘active’ game to keep them engaged, this egg roulette offers up a cracking good time!

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

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Thinking about going back to work this year? You are not alone. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics in 2015, the labor force participation rate for mothers – the percentage of the population working or looking for work – was nearly 70%. Would that number be higher if more moms could find a job that was accommodating to their family’s schedule? Ideally, a mom needs a job that adapts to her family and their schedule. That means starting your own business, finding work that is seasonal, or working within the school district. Take a look below at some family-friendly jobs for moms. Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

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Be your own boss: Dog Walker/Pet Sitter – Dog walkers work midday to give four-legged friends a potty break. Pet sitters care for pets either in their home or the pet’s home when their family is on vacation. Check out the National Association for Professional Petsitters (http://www.petsitters. org/)for more information. Academic Tutor – This is a great job for a mom with a teaching degree! Work after school, weekends or evenings. Spread the word in your neighborhood, area schools and the library.

Music Instructor – Use your talents to teach kids how to play an instrument, read music or use the full range of their voice. Seek guidance at music instruction associations in your area.

Home Childcare – Moms already know how to take care of kids and have safety features, such as gates and electrical plugs, in place in their home. Check your city’s requirements

and licensing for home based day care. Want summers off? Offer before and after school care instead of a full day daycare.

more information, see the International Virtual Assistants Association (http:// www.ivaa.org/).

Photographer – Photographers are in demand for product shots, family portraits, kid’s sporting events, weddings or whatever else interests them. Photographers can also sell their work to stock photo sites such as iStockPhoto or ShutterPoint.

Lactation Consultant – Remember that wonderful woman who came to help you when you were a new mom? Imagine being that angel for someone else. For information on training and certification, check out Healthy Children’s Center for Breastfeeding (www. healthychildren.cc).

Online Retail – eBay or Etsy – Most people have sold at least one thing on eBay in the past few years. Check out eBay University to find out how you can be a successful eBayer! If you are a talented artist or crafter, your products will sell well on Etsy. There are plenty of how-to books available for both eBay and Etsy. Virtual Assistant – VA’s offer professional administrative services to remote clients from the comfort of their own home. This service is often used by small businesses who cannot afford to staff an administrative assistant. For

Personal Trainer – Get certified to teach yoga, Zumba or as a personal trainer. Hold classes in your house or travel to your clients’ homes. This business is perfect for a mom as you can create your own schedule and work around any personal appointments you already have. Freelance – Many people assume freelance work is for writers only. However, a quick scan of elance.com will show you that freelancers are needed for many jobs like IT, accounting or web design. Bid on assignments that work for your skill level and time commitment. Check out other freelance sites like oDesk, Guru, or Freelancer.com.

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Work for the school district and have summer’s off: Crossing Guard – Crossing guards are either employed by the police department or the school district. Most work regular morning and afternoon shifts during the school year right in their own neighborhood.

Food Service Assistant - Popularly referred to as the “Lunch Lady”, moms are often hired to work in the cafeterias in grades K-12. This is a perfect job for moms with school aged kids as you work only when they are in school. Teacher’s Sub – Not all states require substitute teachers to have a teaching degree. Requirements are either determined by the state or individually by school district. For more information on requirements in your area, check out Stedi.org.

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Secretary’s Sub – What happens when the school secretary gets sick? Schools need subs for the office staff as well. Apply at your local school district for administrative assistant positions. School Bus Driver –Typical school bus drivers work 20 to 30 hours per week. School bus drivers need to have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), undergo training and receive passenger and school bus endorsements. Check out your local driver’s license facility for more information. MBP Pam Molnar is a freelance journalist and small business owner. She has launched several successful businesses while staying home with her three children.

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

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FamilyCalendar Sunday February 25

Vintage Market Days 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, 36608 Vintage Market Days is an upscale vintage-inspired market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more. vintagemarketdays.com The Playhouse-inthe-Park presents “The Miracle Worker” 2:30 PM Playhouse in the Park, 4851 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 The Playhousein-the-Park presents “The Miracle Worker” in February and March. “The Miracle Worker” is the inspiring true story of young Helen Keller, a native of Tuscumbia, Alabama who is rendered blind and deaf after a bout of scarlet fever as an infant. In desperation, her parents seek help from teacher Annie Sullivan; partially blind herself, to tutor their daughter. Through months of persistence, love, and sheer stubbornness, Annie breaks through Helen’s walls of silence and darkness and teaches her to communicate. 251-602-0630 playhouseinthepark.org

Thursday March 1

An Evening with Dr. Synthia Saint James 6:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 The Bishop State Community College Foundation’s Board of Directors, in collaboration with the Mobile History Museum, request your support of our annual Scholarship Gala. This event raises funds to provide scholarships to students at Bishop State Community College who have demonstrated a financial need. Bishop State Community College provides quality academic programs and technical education to students across South Alabama. 251-405-7000 www.bishop.edu

Friday March 2

Little Discoveries with Mr Wayne (Free) 10:30 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Mr. Wayne from the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center presents lessons and projects fusing science and literature for preschool children. Ages 3-6. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Mobile Boat Show (Adult Tickets (Ages 13+) $8.00, Kids 12 & under get in free with purchase of adult ticket)

12:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 In addition to a huge selection of boats and marine products, there are special events for the whole family to enjoy! This year’s show will feature professional flyboarding demonstrations in the Mobile River. This exciting new sport is taking off around the Gulf Coast and is fun to watch! The Fetch-n-Fish dog show returns with dog jumping, training tips and lots of fun for the kids; and the Skeeter Experience seminar series boasts a great line-up of local and regional fishing talent sharing their secrets and tips. You can also register for giveaways in Skeeter room all weekend. gulfcoastshows.com/mobile Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “A Comedy of Tenors” 7:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 One hotel suite, four tenors, two wives, three girlfriends, and a soccer stadium filled with screaming fans. What could possibly go

wrong? Dates: March 2, 3, 9, 10 at 7:30pm and March 4, 11 at 2:00pm 251-457-8887 cctshows.com Seussical, The Musical (Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for students. Children 4 and under are free.) 7:30 PM Davidson High School Auditorium, 3900 Pleasant Valley Road Mobile, 36609 The Fine Arts Department of W. P Davidson High School will bring the beloved characters of Dr. Seuss to life during the first weekend of March in the musical, Seussical. This fun-filled show, presented by an incredibly talented cast of actors, singers, and dancers; will thrill and inspire audiences of all ages.

Saturday March 3

2018 Mobile Literary Festival (Free) 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Celebrate Mobile’s literary community and discover new literary obsessions with the local author book sale, stories behind the stories with the Beyond Book Club readers’ discussion panels, and story creation techniques in the Emerging Writers’ Workshop. Discover poetry, book publicity methods, and children’s and youth activities throughout the day. Brought to you by the Mobile Public Library, Mobile Writers’ Guild, and the Metro Mobile Reading Council, this free festival is open to the public and features the area’s top literary talent. 251-208-7097 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Semmes Azalea Festival 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Mary G Montgomery , 4275 Snow Road North Semmes, 36575 The Semmes Azalea Festival, sponsored by the Semmes Chamber of Commerce, will take place from 9:00am until 3:00pm on the campus of Mary G. Montgomery High School in Semmes. Approximately 100 arts and crafts booths, car show, food, live entertainment, plant sale featuring azaleas, children’s area, jumpy’s, bungee jump, jet ski simulator, pony rides, petting zoo and a train will be provided. www.semmeschamber.org/azalea-festival.html Semmes Big Challenge 5K 9:00 AM Mary G Montgomery , 4275 Snow Road North Semmes, 36575 This event is a fundraiser for the Semmes Branch of Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama. bigchallenge5k.com Walk MS 9:00 AM Battleship Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36603 Ending multiple sclerosis for good will take all of us. Walk MS helps us team up with friends, loved ones and co-workers to change the world for everyone affected by MS. Together, we become a powerful force. And with every step we take, every dollar we raise ... we’re that much closer. Together, we will end MS forever. main.nationalmssociety.org Mobile Boat Show (Adult

Tickets (Ages 13+) $8.00, Kids 12 & under get in free with purchase of adult ticket)

10:00 AM 8:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Details March 2. gulfcoastshows.com/mobile Mobile Chocolate Festival 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, 36608 Your chance to indulge in all that is chocolate! Travel down Chocolate Bliss Lane, Go wild with kids arts & crafts, Visit our vendors for

all your chocolate and gift-giving needs, Enter your signature chocolate concoctions in our Chocolate Challenge, Learn from local chefs at the Mobile Fixture Demonstration Area and Enter and/or enjoy the designs from the Project YumWay! www.mobilechocolatefestival.com ACS Chili Cookoff 2018 ($10 ) 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Mardi Gras Park, 148 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 The 2018 Chili Cook-off is Saturday, March 3 at Mardi Gras Park. Please join us! It is a four-hour fun-filled day of great food and live entertainment where teams compete to find out who can cook-up the best chili in the community with chances to win fabulous prizes. Each team must sell 75 tickets at $10 each. Proceeds from the event will be used for local educational programs to teach the importance of early detection and prevention; patient services such as transportation; and lifesaving research. 251-344-9858 community.acsevents.org/site/ TR?fr_id=89434&pg=entry Photos with the Easter Bunny 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Hippity hoppity hooray! The Easter Bunny will return to The Wharf during the month of March for keepsake photos. Young or old, everyone loves a photographic memento to look back upon through the years. We will have live, fuzzy bunnies around to hold in front of the camera, if you choose! Wear your Easter finest and come on down to really swing into Spring with us! 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, 36576 Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway annual Cottontail Express will begin Saturday, March 3-Saturday March 31. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00am-4:00pm. Guests can enjoy Steam Train Ride, Easter Egg Hunt, Visiting with the Easter Bunny, Petting Zoo pony Rides Treats and more. 888-569-5337 waleswest.com Kids Studio ($5 or Free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with handson projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Ages 3-10. 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org 6th Annual Colors of Cancer Glow Run/Walk 6:30 PM Hank Aaron Stadium, 755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard Mobile, 36606 Join us for an event that will bring awareness to all Cancers whether you have been affected yourself or participating for a friend, family or coworker. Show your support and have a great time with an After Glow Party including food and entertainment. www.eventbrite.com Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “A Comedy of Tenors” 7:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 One hotel suite, four tenors, two wives, three girlfriends, and a soccer stadium filled with screaming fans. What could possibly go

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FamilyCalendar wrong? Dates: March 2, 3, 9, 10 at 7:30pm and March 4, 11 at 2:00pm. 251-457-8887 cctshows.com Seussical, The Musical

(Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for students. Children 4 and under are free.)

7:30 PM Davidson High School Auditorium, 3900 Pleasant Valley Road Mobile, 36609 Details March 2. The Playhouse-in-the-Park presents “The Miracle Worker” 7:30 PM Playhouse in the Park, 4851 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 Details February 25. 251-602-0630 playhouseinthepark.org

Sunday March 4

Mobile Boat Show (Adult Tickets (Ages 13+) $8.00, Kids 12 & under get in free with purchase of adult ticket)

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Details March 3. gulfcoastshows.com/mobile Photos with the Easter Bunny 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Hippity hoppity hooray! The Easter Bunny will return to The Wharf during the month of March for keepsake photos. Young or old, everyone loves a photographic memento to look back upon through the years. We will have live, fuzzy bunnies around to hold in front of the camera, if you choose! 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, 36576 Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway annual Cottontail Express will begin Saturday, March 3-Saturday March 31. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00am-4:00pm. Guests can enjoy Steam Train Ride, Easter Egg Hunt, Visiting with the Easter Bunny, Petting Zoo pony Rides Treats and more. 888-569-5337 waleswest.com Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “A Comedy of Tenors” 2:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 One hotel suite, four tenors, two wives, three girlfriends, and a soccer stadium filled with screaming fans. What could possibly go wrong? Dates: March 2, 3, 9, 10 at 7:30pm and March 4, 11 at 2:00pm 251-457-8887 cctshows.com Mobile Ballet’s A Midsummer Nights Dream 2:30 PM Mobile Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 Closing the season is Shakespeare’s beloved classic comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a timeless story of love, jealousy, and humor, brought to the stage for the first time in Mobile! You’ll want to experience this magical fantasy with a beautiful score by Mendelssohn. Katia Garza has taken this delightful story and created an outstanding adaptation with more than 40 dancers on stage, energetic choreography, and fantastical costumes and sets that will mesmerize you. mobileballet.org Seussical, The Musical (Tickets are $12 for adults and

$5 for students. Children 4 and under are free.)

2:30 PM Davidson High School Auditorium, 3900 Pleasant Valley Road Mobile, 36609 Details March 2.

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

Afternoon with the Stars (Free) 3:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Meet the Cast of La Boheme. Members of the cast of Mobile Opera’s production of Puccini’s La Boheme will perform their favorite musical selections. Enjoy beautiful music and meet the stars over light refreshments following the performance. 251-208-7097 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org The Playhouse-in-the-Park presents “The Miracle Worker” 7:30 PM Playhouse in the Park, 4851 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 Details March 3. 251-602-0630 playhouseinthepark.org

Monday 5-Mar

USA Concert Choir and University Chorale Concert 7:30 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 USA Concert Choir and University Chorale Winter Choral Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Tuesday March 6

The Kilted Man Performance (Free) 7:00 PM West Regional Branch, 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Matthew Gurnsey delights audiences with his rousing performances of traditional Irish and Scottish music. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wednesday March 7

Conde-Charlotte Museum Learning Lunch 12:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 Join Mobile Architectural Historian Cart Blackwell when he tells the winding history of one of the oldest houses in the state: the Conde-Charlotte Museum. www.museumofmobile.com

Thursday March 8

Celebrate Historic Mobile - Sacred Spaces: Tour of Historic Houses of Worship 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 350 Oakleigh Place Mobile, 36604 Celebrate Historic Mobile 2018 will take place from Thursday, March 8 until Sunday, March 11. The event is hosted by the Historic Mobile Preservation Society and will include a number of programs and activities celebrating our city’s rich history and unique architecture. Visitors have the option to participate in a number of historically oriented tours and special events, including the Living Spaces tour, the Sacred Spaces tour, the Resting Places tour, and the Legends and Libations pub crawl. March 8 - Sacred Spaces - The Sacred Spaces tour will feature several of Mobile’s historic houses or worship. 251-432-6161 www.historicmobiletour.com Kids Studio 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Join staff from the Alabama Contemporary Art Center to explore contemporary art and music through hands-on and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of art. Ages 8-13. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Cocktails & Creatives 5:30 PM The Merry Widow, 51 South Conception Street Mobile, 36602 Connect. Inspire. Create. Cocktails & Creatives is a happy hour designed to unite Mobilians interested in creativity and creative pursuits—whether they be working artists, secret poets, tinkerers, or the merely curious. Creativity is within all of us. It is what connects us all. Our mission is to inspire everyone to explore their creative natures. www.themerrywidow.net

Friday March 9

The 74 Club’s 3rd Annual Over the Edge Event 9:00 AM Mobile Marriott, 3101 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36606 The 3rd Annual Over The Edge fundraiser event, scheduled for March 9th and 10th, 2018, will give participants the opportunity to help the less fortunate in our area AND experience the thrill of rappelling over 200 feet, while friends, family and the community watch. the74club.org Celebrate Historic Mobile - Living Spaces Tour of Historic Houses 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 350 Oakleigh Place Mobile, 36604 Details March 8. 251-432-6161 www.historicmobiletour.com Bragg Mitchell - Annual Spring Tea Fundraiser 2:00 PM Bragg Mitchell Mansion, 1906 SpringHill Avenue Mobile, 36604 Guests are invited to enjoy delicious treats, tea, and an informal look at one of Mobile’s most iconic antebellum homes. Proceeds from the event will benefit the on-going restoration and operation of the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion. 251-471-6364 braggmitchellmansion.com ArtWalk 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Mobile, Mobile, 36602 Join downtown art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops as they open their doors and welcome you inside to see beautiful artwork, sample delicious foods and hear the sounds of the LoDa Artwalk. 251-208-1550 www.specialeventsmobile.org/ calendar.php 13th Annual Tee Off Fore a Cure Weekend 6:30 PM Lakewood Golf Club, 1 Grand Boulevard Fairhope, 36532 Children’s of Alabama will celebrate the 13th annual Tee Off Fore a Cure on March 9-10, 2018, with a weekend of events designed around the theme, Lucky 13. The pre-party will kick off at 6:30 p.m. on Friday at the Lakewood Golf Club. Admission to Friday’s pre-party is complementary to participating golfers, donors, sponsors, volunteers and their guests. Admission for all other attendees is $25 per person and includes live music from the Bearded Spoon, heavy hors d’oeuvres and beverages provided by the Lakewood Golf Club. Preparty guests can also bid on upscale silent auction items including prizes from coastal artists, travel and local businesses. 251-610-4969 give.childrensal.org/teeoff Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “A Comedy of Tenors” 7:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 One hotel suite, four tenors, two wives, three girlfriends, and a soccer stadium filled with screaming fans. What could possibly go wrong? Dates: March 2, 3, 9, 10 at 7:30pm and March 4, 11 at 2:00pm 251-457-8887 cctshows.com

Saturday March 10

Bryant - My School Color Run (Registration before February 24 is $25 and late registration is $30)

8:00 AM Alma Bryant High School, 14001 Hurricane Boulevard Irvington, 36544 The Bryant Hurricane Band is hosting a My School Color Run on March, 10, 2018. The 5k fun run starts at 8:00 am. Check in time starts at 7:00am. For more information check

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the Facebook page Bryant Hurricane Band Color Run events.myschoolcolorrun.com World War II Living History 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Come and experience a day in the life of a World War II soldier. The soldiers will be doing drills throughout the day; There will be authentic camping and Blacksmithing in the Forts Original Blacksmith Shop. dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines Celebrate Historic Mobile - Living Spaces Tour of Historic Houses 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 350 Oakleigh Place Mobile, 36604 Details March 9. 251-432-6161 www.historicmobiletour.com Christ UMC Spring Bazaar 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Christ United Methodist Church, 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 The public is invited to “Come browse items from local vendors, enjoy food from local food trucks, and let your family enjoy time on our inflatables!” christumcmobile.com/springbazaar Hop on the Hill 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Springhill Merchants, Mobile, 36608 We invite you and your family out for the second annual “Hop on the Hill”! This FREE event is a store to store Easter Egg hunt. Participating merchants will have an egg for each kids who visit their store. The Easter Bunny will be on location for photos (bring your own camera). A map of participating merchants will be available. Select merchants will be offering special activities and/or sales.

(FREE!)

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government Street Mobile, 36604 Mobile Bay Parents Magazine and Eastern Shore Parents Magazine are excited to host the second annual Summer Camp and Healthy Kids Expo! This super fun family event will be held at the Gulf Coast Exploreum from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 10. Admission to the Exploreum is FREE during the expo. Come learn about all the area’s summer camp options, be entertained with live animals, face painting, balloon animals, and demonstrations all while browsing through the amazing Exploreum exhibits. Great fun for the whole family! Come early because we will be giving out 200 goodie bags to the first ones through the door! To become a vendor or for more information call 251-304-1200 or email lynn@mobilebayparents.com. 251-304-1200 www.mobilebayparents.com The Greatest Home Show in Mobile 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, 36695 The Greatest Home Show in Mobile. www.hbamm.com Touch a Truck ($20 per car admission) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Hank Aaron Stadium, 755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard Mobile, 36606 A familyfriendly event that offers children a hands-on op-

portunity to explore a variety of trucks and meet the people who build, protect and serve our community. Children will be allowed to touch, climb aboard and ask questions about their favorite trucks in a safe environment. Benefits pediatric cancer research at USA Mitchell Cancer Institute and Adoption Rocks. * Noise-free hour -- no sirens, lights or horns -- from 10:00am-11:00am. Maker Mornings (Free) 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 We provide the supplies, ideas and space - families feel free to experiment in the making of fun projects. Participants are invited to make masks and decorate bags to catch their Mardi Gras throws. TEENS - Stop by the MaYker Lab upstairs and 3D Print your own Mardi Gras Beads. 251-208-7086 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Photos with the Easter Bunny 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Hippity hoppity hooray! The Easter Bunny will return to The Wharf during the month of March for keepsake photos. Young or old, everyone loves a photographic memento to look back upon through the years. We will have live, fuzzy bunnies around to hold in front of the camera, if you choose! Wear your Easter finest and come on down to really swing into Spring with us! 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, 36576 Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway annual Cottontail Express will begin Saturday, March 3-Saturday March 31. Open Satur-

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FamilyCalendar days and Sundays from 11:00am-4:00pm. Guests can enjoy Steam Train Ride, Easter Egg Hunt, Visiting with the Easter Bunny, Petting Zoo pony Rides Treats and more. 888-569-5337 waleswest.com The 74 Club’s 3rd Annual Over the Edge Event 12:00 PM Mobile Marriott, 3101 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36606 The 3rd Annual Over The Edge fundraiser event, scheduled for March 9th and 10th, 2018, will give participants the opportunity to help the less fortunate in our area AND experience the thrill of rappelling over 200 feet, while friends, family and the community watch. the74club.org EEC Grill on the Hill 4:00 PM St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 4051 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36608 You are invited to the 1st annual Grill on the Hill cook-off. We will have numerous BBQ teams competing for top honors in the chicken, beef, pork, and side dish categories. We will also have live music, drinks, and raffle items. www.stpaulsearlyedcenter.com Celebrate Historic Mobile - Legends and Libations 7:00 PM 350 Oakleigh Place Mobile, 36604 Legends and Libations pub crawl and trolley tour is a great way to learn about Historic Mobile. Stops will include Red & White and Callaghan’s Irish Social Club. 251-432-6161 www.historicmobiletour.com Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “A Comedy of Tenors” 7:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 One hotel suite, four tenors, two wives, three girlfriends, and a soccer stadium filled with screaming fans. What could possibly go wrong? Dates: March 2, 3, 9, 10 at 7:30pm and March 4, 11 at 2:00pm 251-457-8887 cctshows.com

Sunday March 11

Photos with the Easter Bunny 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Hippity hoppity hooray! The Easter Bunny will return to The Wharf during the month of March for keepsake photos. Young or old, everyone loves a photographic memento to look back upon through the years. We will have live, fuzzy bunnies around to hold in front of the camera, if you choose! Wear your Easter finest and come on down to really swing into Spring with us! 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Details March 10. 888-569-5337 waleswest.com

Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, 36576

Market at the Pillars 12:00 PM The Pillars, 1757 Government Street Mobile, 36604 Shop Local Farmers, Crafters, Bakers and Makers! Local Eats, Drinks and Live Music! The Greatest Home Show in Mobile 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, 36695 The Greatest Home Show in Mobile. www.hbamm.com

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

Celebrate Historic Mobile - Resting Places: Tour of Historic Cemeteries 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 350 Oakleigh Place Mobile, 36604 Celebrate Historic Mobile 2018 will take place from Thursday, March 8 until Sunday, March 11. March 11 - The Resting Places tour includes the Church Street Cemetery, Magnolia Cemetery, and Old Plateau Cemetery. 251-432-6161 www.historicmobiletour.com Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “A Comedy of Tenors” 2:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 One hotel suite, four tenors, two wives, three girlfriends, and a soccer stadium filled with screaming fans. What could possibly go wrong? Dates: March 2, 3, 9, 10 at 7:30pm and March 4, 11 at 2:00pm 251-457-8887 cctshows.com Classical Ballet of Mobile Spring Repertoire Performance ($30 General Admission; $20 12 and under,

65 & over, military and students with ID))

2:30 PM Louise R. Moorer Center for Performing Arts, 1400 University Boulevard South Mobile, 36609 Classical Ballet of Mobile presents the Spring Repertoire Performance featuring Lily Ojea Loveland and Aaron Melendres. Guest artists courtey of Ballet Palm Beach. Artistic Director, Wintrhop Corey. Tickets can be ordered online ClassicalBalletMobile.org Distinguished Young Women announces Spotlight: a Gulf Coast Talent Showcase Saraland High School Theater, 1115 Industrial Parkway Saraland, 36571 “The 2nd Annual Gulf Coast Spotlight Talent Showcase, presented by the University of Mobile and Distinguished Young Women, is an event whose purpose is to recognize talented young performers right in our own community, encourage their pursuits and give funds to support arts programs in Mobile and Baldwin County schools. 251-438-3621 www.GulfCoastSpotlight.com

Monday March 12

USA Percussion Ensemble Spring Concert 7:30 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center , 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 USA Percussion Ensemble Spring Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Tuesday March 13

Family Bingo Night (Free) 6:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Calling All Families! Come play Bingo at the Library! Prizes will be awarded and lemonade and popcorn will be served. 251-470-7770 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wednesday March 14

Learning Lunch - History Museum of Mobile (Free) 12:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 Learning Lunch featuring Darryn Glassbrook, Director of Mobile Medical Museum - The People’s Drug Store 251-208-7569 www.museumofmobile.com/learning-lunch

Thursday March 15

Jubilee Bargains Peek and Purchase ($30 ) 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Old Mobile Antiques Gallery, 1616 W Interstate 65 Service Road South Mobile, 36693 Bargain hunters can kick off their shopping experience early at the Annual Rummage Sale Peek & Purchase Party. Peek & Purchase provides friends and family of the Junior League of Mobile an exclusive opportunity to shop before the general public while enjoying food, drinks, a silent auction, and fun. 251-471-3348 www.juniorleaguemobile.org

Third Class: A Titanic Irish Party ($10, members are

free)

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 Enjoy an ice cold beverage, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and enjoy the exhibition all in one night. www.museumofmobile.com

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Meet the Author - Ruthi Postow Birch (Free) 6:30 PM West Regional Branch, 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 In her new book, How to Build a Piano Bench: Lessons from a Red-Dirt Road in Alabama, she chronicles her humorous journey, and the important tokens of wisdom she captured along the way. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Garrison Keillor 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Garrison captivates audiences with his signature blend of humor, charisma and wisdom as he shares his journey to becoming one of America’s greatest storytellers. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see Garrison Keillor live at the Saenger Theatre Thursday, March 15. www.mobilesaenger.com The University Symphonic Winds 7:00 PM Shiloh Baptist Church, 717 Cleveland Road Saraland, 36571 The University Symphonic Winds is a large concert band which performs classical, traditional, contemporary and original music in sacred and secular settings. This ensemble participates in and accompanies with the symphony Orchestra in all major productions and performances for the Center for Performing Arts.

Friday March 16

Sunnyside Theatre presents “The Little Mermaid, Jr” 7:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Production present “The Little Mermaid, Jr”. www.sunnysidedrama.com Plantasia 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 Get the best plants for your Gulf Coast garden at our largest plant sale of the year! www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org 66th Annual Fairhope Arts and Crafts Show (Free) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope, 36532 The 66th Annual Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival in Fairhope, Alabama is scheduled for March 16, 17, & 18, 2018. Festival hours are Friday thru Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The festival is free to the public. More than 230 exhibitors from all over the country will bring their best works. This prestigious juried show showcases artists from across the country including many from the Southeast. Enjoy live entertainment and delicious cuisine from the food court throughout this great three-day event. Joe Jefferson Players present “Cabaret” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 The Joe Jefferson Players present “Cabaret,” the classic Broadway musical tale of the racy underworld nightlife of Berlin, set in the early Nazi period of Germany when Hitler was first coming to power. Featuring songs that have become classics of the American Musical Theater, “Cabaret” is a fierce, meaty musical that pushes the boundaries of the form and literally holds “the mirror up to nature.” joejeffersonplayers.com

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FamilyCalendar Mobile Opera presents La Boheme 8:00 PM The Temple, 351 St Francis Street Mobile, 36602 The Mobile Opera will perform La Boheme at The Temple Downtown 251-432-6772 mobileopera.org

Saturday March 17

Early Bird Sale Jubilee Bargains ($3 Ticket, 17 & under free)

7:00 AM 9:00 AM, Old Mobile Antiques Gallery, 1616 W Interstate 65 Service Road South Mobile, 36693 The sale will have thousands of bargains, including furniture, bikes, baby clothes, shoes, books, designer purses, jewelry, collectibles, office equipment, even brand new merchandise, and more! 251-471-3348 www.juniorleaguemobile.org ASMS Hackathon (Free) 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Alabama School of Mathematics and Science, 1255 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36604 The ASMS Hackathon is a free coding competition hosted by the Alabama School of Math and Science in Mobile for beginner and experienced programmers. Alabama middle schoolers are invited to compete for prizes and learn while having fun. For 6-8 graders. Register online at www.asms.net. www.asms.net 2018 Young Authors Conference 9:00 AM West Regional Branch, 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Children’s author, Jerry Pallotta will be the keynote speaker for the 2018 Young Authors’ Conference.Following Mr. Pallotta’s presentation, students in grades 2-5 will break into small groups and participate in a variety of writing activities. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Jubilee Bargains Community Sale 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Old Mobile Antiques Gallery, 1616 W Interstate 65 Service Road South Mobile, 36693 The sale will have thousands of bargains, including furniture, bikes, baby clothes, shoes, books, designer purses, jewelry, collectibles, office equipment, even brand new merchandise, and more! Proceeds benefit local community programs sponsored by JLM. 251-471-3348 www.juniorleaguemobile.org Living History Day at Blakeley State Park 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Blakeley State Park, 34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, 36527 Events will include Civil War artillery and rifle demonstrations, guided battlefield tours, and a lecture by noted historian Dr. Ben Severance, author of Portraits of Conflict: A Photographic History of Alabama During the Civil War. We will also offer our popular and unique “Civil War on the Eastern Shore” boat cruise. 251-626-0798 www.blakeleypark.com Plantasia 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 Get the best plants for your Gulf Coast garden at our largest plant sale of the year! www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org 66th Annual Fairhope Arts and Crafts Show (Free) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope, 36532 Details March 16. Photos with the Easter Bunny 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 The Easter Bunny will return to The Wharf during the month of March for keepsake photos. Young or old, everyone loves a photographic memento to look back upon through the years. We will have live, fuzzy bunnies around to hold in front of the camera, if

you choose! Wear your Easter finest and come on down to really swing into Spring with us! 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, 36576 Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway annual Cottontail Express will begin Saturday, March 3-Saturday March 31. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00am-4:00pm. Guests can enjoy Steam Train Ride, Easter Egg Hunt, Visiting with the Easter Bunny, Petting Zoo pony Rides Treats and more. 888-569-5337 waleswest.com

Monday March 19

USA Piano Ensembles Spring Concert 7:30 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center , 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Thursday March 22

Alabama 200 Bicentennial Pre-Easter Festival 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Bicentennial Park, 51233 Highway 225 Stockton, 36579 Join us for our Pre-Easter Festival with Pony Rides, Easter Egg Hunt, Petting Zoo Face Painting, Train Rides and Hay Rides. The Easter Bunny will be on site. 251-580-1897 Joe Jefferson Players present “Cabaret” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Details on March 16. joejeffersonplayers.com Sunnyside Theatre presents “The Little Mermaid, Jr” Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Production present “The Little Mermaid, Jr”. Times: 2:00pm and 7:00pm. www.sunnysidedrama.com

Sunday March 18

66th Annual Fairhope Arts and Crafts Show (Free) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope, 36532 The 66th Annual Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival in Fairhope, Alabama is scheduled for March 16, 17, & 18, 2018. Festival hours are Friday thru Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The festival is free to the public. More than 230 exhibitors from all over the country will bring their best works. This prestigious juried show showcases artists from across the country including many from the Southeast. Enjoy live entertainment and delicious cuisine from the food court throughout this great three-day event. Photos with the Easter Bunny 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Details March 17. 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Festival of Flowers 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Providence Hospital Campus, 6801 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608 More than just a walk in the park, the 2018 Festival of Flowers, sponsored by Wells Fargo, is “A Celebration Promenade,” a showcase of the ultimate floral and garden excellence and creativity. Children of all ages will enjoy Crafts and activities, Farmto-table learning, Composting exhibits, Bounce house, Face Painting, Sandbox activities, Bee exhibit, Carousel exhibit, Youth Photography Contest, Special princess appearances and Book reading. 251-266-2050 festivalofflowers.com

USA Jazz Ensemble Spring Concert 7:30 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center , 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html An Evening with Jason Mraz 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Join us for an acoustic evening with Jason Mraz on March 22nd at the Mobile Saenger Theatre! www.mobilesaenger.co

Friday March 23

Festival of Flowers 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Providence Hospital Campus, 6801 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608 Details on March 22. 251-266-2050 festivalofflowers.com Joe Jefferson Players present “Cabaret” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Details on March 16. joejeffersonplayers.com

Plantasia 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 Get the best plants for your Gulf Coast garden at our largest plant sale of the year! www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org

Saturday March 24

Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, 36576 Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway annual Cottontail Express will begin Saturday, March 3-Saturday March 31. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00am-4:00pm. Guests can enjoy Steam Train Ride, Easter Egg Hunt, Visiting with the Easter Bunny, Petting Zoo pony Rides Treats and more. 888-569-5337 waleswest.com Joe Jefferson Players present “Cabaret” 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Details on March 16. joejeffersonplayers.com Sunnyside Theatre presents “The Little Mermaid, Jr” 2:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Production present “The Little Mermaid, Jr”. www.sunnysidedrama.com

Mobile Opera presents La Boheme 2:30 PM The Temple, 351 St Francis Street Mobile, 36602 The Mobile Opera will perform La Boheme at The Temple Downtown 251-432-6772 mobileopera.org

10th Annual Saraland Lions Club Pancake Breakfast ($6.50 per person; children 5 and younger with an adult eat free.) 6:30 AM - 10:30 AM, Catfish Junction, 300 Industrial Parkway Saraland, 36571 Azalea Trail Run 8:00 AM Canal Street at Claiborne Mobile, 36603 Join us on March 24, 2018 for the 41th Annual Azalea Trail Run (ATR), one of the premier 10K road races in the United States and the 2011 RRCA National 10K Championship. The event also includes 5K and 2K runs. All of the courses are flat and extremely fast. www.pcpacers.org/atr Egg Hunt on the Hill 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM, Springhill Baptist Church, 2 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Join us for the Egg Hunt on the Hill with inflatables, pony rides, face painting, crafts, refreshments and more. www.shbc.cc Festival of Flowers 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Providence Hospital Campus, 6801 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608 Details on March 22. 251-266-2050 festivalofflowers.com

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FamilyCalendar Friends of Library - Book Sale 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Abba Temple Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, 36695 Friends of the Mobile Public Library is holding a Book Sale, March 24, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and March 25, 1-6 p.m. 251-208-7902 Downtown Cajun Cook Off 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Cathedral Square, Mobile, 36602 Over 22 local restaurants and bars prepare their finest Cajun Cuisine. Held in Cathedral Square in downtown Mobile. Live music on stage to benefit the Child Advocacy Center. 251-432-1101 www.cacmobile.org Easter at Seward Farms (See website) 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Seward Farms, 10836 Tanner Williams Road Lucedale, 39452 Come to the farm Saturday, March 24 from 10am - 3pm for a fun experience for the Whole Family! Families will enjoy egg hunts (for ages 1 – 10) hay rides, cow trains, jumping pillow, yee haw slide, baby animal petting area, face painting, funny farm golf, pony ride, a visit with the Easter Bunny, play areas and more! When you arrive, check the board inside building for times, age group and location of Egg Hunts. Egg Hunts will be staggered so you can enjoy your kids egg hunt. Hungry? They Wagon Wheel Café will be open for lunch! Stop by to enjoy a pulled pork plate, BBQ pork sandwich, or a hot-dog for your little one. Snack foods will also be made available for purchase. www.sewardfarms.com/ Easter Egg Hunt - Dauphin Island 10:00 AM Green Park, Dauphin Island, 36528 There will be an Easter Egg Hunt at Green Park on Dauphin Island. The Easter Bunny will be on hand, so parents, bring your cameras. www.dauphinislandchamber.com Easter Family Experience 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Christ United Methodist Church, 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 He is Risen! Join us for a wonderful day filled with fun as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. There will be inflatables, performances by the Christ UMC Puppet Ministry, an Easter Egg Hunt and family worship. www.cumcchildren.com Semmes Spring Fling 10:00 AM Semmes Municipal Park, 8108 Morris Hill Road Semmes, 36575 Spring Fling – Fun for the kid in all of us! Bounce houses, food vendors, local vendors, games and more. cityofsemmesal.gov Stringfest ($15 per child or $25 per family and lunch is included) 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Azalea City Center for the Arts, 63 Midtown Park East Mobile 10:30-12:00 students will perform solos for a judge. At 12 we will eat lunch and at 12:30 we will all perform together as a big Full Scale orchestra! 251- 454-6591 www.fullscaleschool.com Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, 36576 Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway annual Cottontail Express will begin Saturday, March 3-Saturday March 31. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00am-4:00pm. Guests can enjoy Steam Train Ride, Easter Egg Hunt, Visiting with the Easter Bunny, Petting Zoo pony Rides Treats and more. 888-569-5337 waleswest.com 15th Annual Bunny Hop 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Geri Moulton Children’s Park, 1626 Spring Hill Avenue Mobile, 36604 251-694-6873 rmhcmobile.org Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents “Resurrection” 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 The Resurrection Symphony cemented Gustav Mahler’s fame as one of history’s foremost composers. This mammoth piece is known for its grandeur and scale. It requires a performing force which includes

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

soloists and a chorus, which the composer directed should be deployed beyond the confines of the stage itself. This will be the first time the Mobile Symphony Orchestra has taken on Mahler’s masterpiece. We will be joined by three of the area’s finest choirs to create an experience that anyone would regret missing! 251-432-2010 mobilesymphony.org/event/ resurrection Annual Easter Egg Hunt - Exploreum Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Come join us at the Exploreum for our Annual Easter Egg Hunt with fun prizes and visit the Easter Bunny. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Easter Egg Hunt and Breakfast with Easter Bunny Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36582 Bellingrath Gardens and Home invites children of all ages to join us for Breakfast with the Easter Bunny and the annual Easter Egg Hunt on the Great Lawn. www.bellingrath.org

Sunday March 25

Festival of Flowers 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Providence Hospital Campus, 6801 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608 Details on March 22. 251-266-2050 festivalofflowers.com Photos with the Easter Bunny 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Hippity hoppity hooray! The Easter Bunny will return to The Wharf during the month of March for keepsake photos. Young or old, everyone loves a photographic memento to look back upon through the years. We will have live, fuzzy bunnies around to hold in front of the camera, if you choose! 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, 36576 Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway annual Cottontail Express will begin Saturday, March 3-Saturday March 31. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00am-4:00pm. Guests can enjoy Steam Train Ride, Easter Egg Hunt, Visiting with the Easter Bunny, Petting Zoo pony Rides Treats and more. 888-569-5337 waleswest.com Friends of Library - Book Sale 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Abba Temple Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, 36695 Details March 24 251-208-7902 Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents “Resurrection” 2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 The Resurrection Symphony cemented Gustav Mahler’s fame as one of history’s foremost composers. This mammoth piece is known for its grandeur and scale. 251-432-2010 mobilesymphony.org/event/ resurrection Community Easter Egg Hunt (Free) 3:00 PM St. Mark United Methodist Church, 329 Azalea Road Mobile, 36609 Bring your eagle-eyed egg hunters and a sweet tooth to the annual Community Easter Egg Hunt and Festival. Listen to the Easter story and enjoy some fellowship while the kids play games, do crafts, eat some cupcakes and have fun before the hunt. There’ll be hundreds of eggs up for grabs, with separate areas designated for small children and for older kids. www.stmarkmobile.com

Wednesday March 28

Learning Lunch - History Museum of Mobile (Free) 12:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 Learning Lunch featuring Julie Wil-

liams, Assistant Professor at Samford University - A Rare Titanic Family. 251-208-7569 www.museumofmobile.com/ learning-lunch

Friday March 30

Joe Jefferson Players present “Cabaret” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Details on March 16. joejeffersonplayers.com Here Come the Mummies 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Here Come the Mummies is an eight-piece funk-rock band of 5000 year-old Egyptian Mummies with a one-track mind. www.mobilesaenger.com

Saturday March 31

9th Annual Optimist Branch Pancake Breakfast ($6 ) 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1517 Plaza Drive Mobile, 36605 9th Annual Optimist Branch Pancake Breakfast, hosted by Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama, is Saturday, March 31. Proceeds benefit youth programs within the Branch. www.bgcsouthal.org/pancake DI Community Easter Egg Hunt 9:30 AM Cadillac Square, 601 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 The Easter Bunny will make his appearance at 9:30am. The Easter Egg Hunt will start at 10am. Please be sure to buy tickets for the basket drawings to help support next year’s Egg Hunt. Drawings will be held immediately after the Egg Hunt. You do not need to be present to win. dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines Chickasaw Community Easter Egg Hunt 10:00 AM Chickasaw Housing Authority Walking Trail , Chickasaw, 36671 Ages 12-under. Refreshments, prizes and the Easter Bunny. Three age divisions. Make sure you bring your Easter basket and camera. The hunt will be held at the Chickasaw Housing Authority walking trail behind the post office on Saturday March 31st at 10:00am. cityofchickasaw.org Easter in the Squares 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Bienville Square, Mobile, 36602 Easter in the Squares will be held March 31 from 10:00am-1:00pm. This fun family free event will have Face painting, Balloon art, Children’s craft activity, Kids Karaoke, Prizes for best decorated stroller or wagon and an Easter Egg Hunt. www.downtownmobile.org Bunny Bash 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Lavretta Park, 200 Parkway Drive West Mobile, 36608 The Bunny Bash, hosted by the City Church of Mobile, is a family event and will be held at Lavretta Park from 11-1. Kids 12 and under are welcome to participate in the egg hunt. There will also be food for everyone and games for the kids (inflatables and other games). Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, 36576 Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway annual Cottontail Express will begin Saturday, March 3-Saturday March 31. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00am-4:00pm. Guests can enjoy Steam Train Ride, Easter Egg Hunt, Visiting with the Easter Bunny, Petting Zoo pony Rides Treats and more. 888-569-5337 waleswest.com Easter Egg Hunt - The Wharf (Admission is FREE; Face Painting: $5 - $10)

11:30 AM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 There will be separate age group areas designated for the hoppy hunt. A wide variety of kids’ activities will be offered on-site, including face painting, a bouncy house, giant coloring sheets, cookies and more! www.alwharf.com

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Support Groups & Classes Sunday April 1

Community Easter Sunrise Service 6:30 AM Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 The service will begin at 6:30 a.m. on the Great Lawn within the walls of Fort Gaines and it is open to everyone in the community. Free admission will be given to guests from 6 to 7 a.m. on Easter Sunday. Those who will be attending are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blanket. dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines Easter Sunrise Service 6:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36582 A hot breakfast will be available for purchase after the service. www.bellingrath.org

Classes/Meetings APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, 445 Azalea Road. Parent, Youth/Teen Group and Childcare Is Provided. Topic Discussions & ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information please call 251-4602727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@childrensaid.org. Autism Support Group in North Mobile We have a social play room for higher functioning children (4 and up) to engage and relate. The idea is to have a safe place for parents of Autistic children in our community to link up and network with other families. 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Saraland United Methodist Church, 415 McKeough Ave., Saraland. For more info or to RSVP contact Chris Gibson. Email Chrisgibson4149@gmail.com, or 251281-7312. Breast Feeding Friendly Group (The BFF Group) A place where new moms can get one-on-one breastfeeding help. Get to know other moms within the same community and possibly become a mentor. Breastfeeding professionals are able to provide newborn weight checks before and after feeding to help you to know if your baby is getting enough to eat. Nurses and other medical personnel can answer general questions. All are welcome, even if you haven’t delivered yet. Spouses and other support partners are also welcome. Every Monday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. (Except major holidays). We meet at The Allen Cox Building Conference Room, 205 Lambert Avenue, Mobile. 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. *Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (Four things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. *Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks. 251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center classes. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile.

www.familycentermobile.org or www. Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile. La Leche League Mobile Bay Area Breastfeeding support meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Meetings are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader. 251-689-2085, amandaLLLmobile@ yahoo.com, meghanLLL@yahoo.com, or michelleLLLmobile@yahoo.com. Facebook: La Leche League Mobile Bay Area. Survivors of Suicide Support Group Meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lifelines Counseling Services, 705 Oak Circle Drive, Mobile. SOS is here to provide a supportive and judgement-free environment for you to express yourself and share your story. What can you expect? •A place to find support •A comfortable environment to express yourself •A judgement free environment •Resources for grieving Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, please call childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000. • Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Pre-registration is required; call 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. • Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Gastric Bypass Support Meets every 2nd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia. Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care. Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital 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. Spring Hill Medical Center: www.springhillmedicalcenter.com • Better Breathers Support Group Meeting For people with pulmonary disorders. Meets on the fourth Monday of each month. 2-3 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. For more information, call 461-2438. • Breastfeeding Class One Wednesday per month. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Family Center. Benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, going back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation Classes Four consecutive Mondays (6:30-9 p.m.) at The Family Center. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units. Cost: $25 if delivering at Springhill Hospital. Call 3407769 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation: Accelerated Course One Saturday per month. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The Family Center. Ideal for those who live out of town or

will be delivering soon. $25. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings Noon on the First Sunday of the month. Join us for an individualized tour and instruction for siblings ages 9 and younger. The event includes a tour of the maternity areas and tips on helping parents with the new baby. Parents must remain with their children. By Appointment ONLY. Call 340-7769. • Infant CPR Learn this potentially life-saving technique while you are pregnant or soon after your baby’s birth. Covers infant CPR and choking. $5 if delivering at SMC. 6:30 p.m. 8 p.m. The Family Center (Bldg. 2, Fourth Floor). Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Resolve Through Sharing For parents who have lost a child before or immediately after birth. Meets the fourth Monday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. Call 460-5323. USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1069. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Advanced payment required to secure your reservation. If you are expecting multiples or having a c-section, please call for additional class information. • Preparing for Childbirth All-day Saturday class for the expectant mother and her support person (coach). Topics include: pregnancy changes, labor, role of the support coach, relaxation and breathing techniques, vaginal and cesarean births, postpartum care, and a tour of the maternity areas. Fee per couple: $30. You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Every other month, 9-2. • Childbirth in a Nutshell This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets first Tuesday every other month from 6:30-9 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Fee per couple: $15. • Breastfeeding This one-night class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Class meets second Thursday from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital Fee: $5. Registration Information: Credit card payments are accepted by calling 415-1685. Mail payments for classes to: University of South Alabama, Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Education Department, 1700 Center St., Mobile, AL 36604.

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

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Early Man

Black Panther

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: B Sexual Content: B Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Early Man PG for rude humor and some action. Using stop-frame techniques, Aardamn Animation sets out to prove what many Brits have believed all along: Football is in their blood because the history of their involvement with the sport goes back to prehistoric times. According to this account, the game kicked off after a meteor struck the earth (in the vicinity of present-day Manchester). It continued to evolve, and by the Bronze Age, both playing and spectating had become almost a religion. Unfortunately, a small tribe still stuck in the Stone Age is unaware of the wildly popular pastime. It isn’t until their metal-seeking neighbors trespass into their valley that the group discovers there is a more advanced civilization. The primitive band is promptly cast off their turf by the greedy Lord Nooth. After the foul treatment, they are unsure how to reclaim their valley. That’s when Dug accidentally stumbles into their modern city, discovers the football arena and witnesses the competitive sport. He challenges the home team to a high stakes game where the champions will win the right to the contested land. The comedy in the film comes from watching these unmatched rivals prepare for battle on the field, along with portrayals of ancient materials adapted into modern-day conveniences. It is all a bit silly, with a whole lot of slapstick thrown in. With the exception of some evil intentions and mild sports violence, the film will be appropriate for most ages of viewers. However, the humor will likely be best appreciated by audiences that are avid football fans and/or those who get it’s distinctly British nuances.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: D+ Sexual Content: AProfanity: C Alcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated PG-13 for prolonged sequences of action violence, and a brief rude gesture. After the death of his father (John Kani), which was depicted in Captain America: Civil War, T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) succeeds to the throne of a small, mysterious (and fictitious) African state called Wakanda. After defending his right to rule in a gladiator-style, ceremonial ritual, T’Challa also inherits the role as protector of the realm, along with some big moral decisions and deep rooted family baggage. But T’Challa has some help with these responsibilities. Thanks to a the powers of an indigenous herb, he is endowed with superhuman strengths as the Black Panther. And he will need these abilities to maintain the secrecy of Wakanda’s greatest treasure, a shiny metal called vibranium. T’Challa hopes to honor his father’s legacy by keeping Wakanda safely isolated from the unrest of the world surrounding it. Yet, a bad guy named Ulyssess Klaue is already aware of the secret resource. Klaue is determined to grasp more of the mighty metal and sell it to the highest bidder. From a parent’s perspective, Black Panther comes with ample violent portrayals. However, the complex ethical issues presented propel the script far above other superhero films too. When it comes to considering the needs of others first, the Black Panther sets a high bar. One that I hope continues in the many Marvel adventures sure to include this character in the future.

The 15:17 to Paris

Wonder

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: CSexual Content: B Profanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated The 15:17 to Paris PG-13 on appeal for bloody images, violence, some suggestive material, drug references and language. Heroic events deserve to make the news but that doesn’t necessarily mean they will be the makings of a good movie. Sadly, that’s the situation with Clint Eastwood’s retelling of the quick spirited actions of three American men (Spencer Stone, Alek Skarlatos and Anthony Sadler) after an armed terrorist began shooting on a French train in 2015. The first problem with creating a film about an actual conflict, that is barely five minutes long, is finding something to fill the other hour and a half of runtime. Perhaps it was wrong to feel a sense of “finally” when the pivotal action begins. But, at last, there’s a story to tell (albeit a short one) and Eastwood directs the bloody sequence with finesse. Spenser leads the charge to subdue the attacker and ends up with slashes across his neck and face. Alek and Anthony follow as backup. Moments later Spenser attends to another passenger, (Mark Moogalian also playing himself) who is shot in the neck, and uses his military medical knowledge to save the injured man’s life. Whether Eastwood is an artistic genius or a rushed director who didn’t anticipate that his movie would feel like a pilot for a reality TV series, is beside the point. The final destination of The 15:17 To Paris illustrates to teen and adult audiences that you don’t have to be someone special to do something that can make a powerful difference.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: B+ Sexual Content: AProfanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: BThe MPAA has rated Wonder PG for thematic elements including bullying, and some mild language. It’s as plain as the nose on your face that Auggie Pullman (played by Jacob Tremblay) is no ordinary ten-year-old. Born with a genetic defect, the boy has a face only a mother could love. Consequently, the youngster has been sheltered from the outside world and home schooled – until now. Auggie’s mother (Julia Roberts) has decided that he should attend a real institution as he begins the first year of middle school. She logics that most of the other students will be new too, so it should ease the transition. Despite all the pep talks, and the support of his father (Owen Wilson) and sister Via (Izabela Vidovic), the whole family is secretly quite concerned about how Auggie’s facial deformities will be seen by his peers. Much of this movie follows the quiet child as he tries to establish himself in a new environment that is less hospitable than the walls of his of own home. Watching Aggie navigate the challenges of his situation would provide enough material for a good plot, yet this thoughtful script takes the story into unexpected territory by examining the feelings of jealousy, neglect and isolation as the perspectives of his sister and other friends are shared. In a subtle way, it exposes the fact that we all carry scars – even if they aren’t as visible as the nose on Auggie’s face. And it demonstrates the power that’s unleashed when ordinary people doing kind things.

Mobile Bay Parents I March 2018

(New to Home Video)

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