Mobile Bay Parents May2019 by KeepSharing

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May2019

Volume 9 Number 2

38 Columns

Mom of the Month 4

Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LMSW

Common Sense Media How colleges use your child’s social media feed.

Got a Graduate?

Find eight great gift ideas your high school graduate is sure to love.

Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

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How Much Should My Child Be Reading? A child’s curious mind is a valuable and wonderful thing! With the reading load required throughout school – not to mention throughout one’s lifetime – it is important and rewarding to instill a love for reading and learning at a young age. This sounds like a simple task, but can sometimes seem daunting when you have an adventurous toddler that does not want to stay still! So this month, let’s discuss how much you should read to your child, and what types of books are appropriate for each age group. Try reading to your child by 4-6 months old (I would even challenge you to start reading from day 1!). As newborns, it is comforting and enjoyable for infants to hear their parents’ voices. You can read short or long stories at this point and incorporate songs and lullabies. At this stage, the emotional impact of quality time spent together during story time is more important than the context of the stories. Around 6 months, children will become more interactive during story time. At this point, books with bright, large pictures and few words

are most appropriate. Allow your child to help hold the book, interrupt the story, and even put the book in their mouth! Cardboard books, stand-up and fold out books, or soft books are much easier to use. Your child is learning much more through the interaction, so do not be discouraged if you are skipping pages or not finishing the book. Between 6 and 12 months, your child will start to show excitement for reading by kicking their legs, patting the book, or even helping to turn pages. At this age, try and incorporate reading into a daily routine. It will be much more enjoyable for you and your child if reading time occurs when he is fed, dry, and at least somewhat alert. Reading time does not necessarily need to take more than about 3 minutes a day, but it is also important to continually talk to your child throughout the day – no matter how silly you may feel. These months are extremely formative for a child’s development. Between 1-3 years old, books that are repetitive, catchy, and educational are easiest to

read. Books that teach numbers, foods, colors, and more in a fun way help your child’s speech development and establish a love for reading. From Pre-K to early elementary school age, books with smaller pictures and more words per page are more enjoyable and engaging. Make reading time fun for you and your little one. Reading aloud with your little one teaches skills such as listening, communication, memory, and socialization. This is a unique kind of bonding experience that gives them your undivided attention, which is truly what a child loves and deserves.

Jennifer Adair, M.D., was born and raised in Mobile. She joined Children’s Medical Group in July 2013 and currently practices at their Airport office. Jennifer and her husband, Cory, reside in Mobile with their son, Finn, and their three dogs, Barkley, Fitz, and Roo.

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Autauga County Schools Allentown Students Visit USS Alabama

Second graders at Allentown participated in a field trip to the USS Alabama. They enjoyed exploring the battleship and learning about its history.

Clark-Shaw Students Attend STEM Open House in Huntsville

7th graders were invited to a STEM Open House sponsored by the University of Alabama at Huntsville. Students from UAH and Auburn University demonstrated hands-on activities in the fields of plasma, electromagnetism, and more.

Parents and Teachers Send Encouraging Notes to Old Shell Students

The 3rd grade teachers and parents at Old Shell Road School of the Performing Arts came together during state testing and wanted their students to know that they support them! The students received personalized, encouraging notes from their parents and teachers, and they received daily treats to remind them that this is their time to shine! The teaching staff and faculty are extremely proud of all the hard working students here at OSR! ROCK THAT TEST!

E.R. Dickson Celebrates Dr. Seuss

On Tuesday, March 19, E.R. Dickson spent the day celebrating author, Dr. Seuss. The day began with an exciting assembly with songs, cheers, a character fashion show, and game show. The day continued with students enjoying reading Dr. Seuss books and fun Seuss activities in the classroom. The celebration continued into the night with reading, math, digital, and Talents activities in the classrooms and hallways with the students and their parents. The celebration was attended by over 600 Dr. Seuss fans. To end the night, students who attended received a book and a slice of birthday cake. Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

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Recognizing Staff at E.R. Dickson Elementary

Congratulations to E.R. Dickson’s Staff member of the month for April – Mr. Antonio Coleman, Paraprofessional and to the Teacher of the Month for April – Ms. Sande McBryde, 3rd Grade Teacher!

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Hankins Middle School Robotics Team Wins Award

The Hankins Middle School Robotics Team competed in the Spring Jubilee BEST Robotics Competition on March 23. The team was awarded the “Innovation and Manufacturing Award” for having the most genuine robot construction. These students and their sponsor, HMS teacher Bonnie Howard, have worked hard all school year for this event. Congratulations to the HMS Robotics Team!

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Causey Middle School Student Places at Regional Science Fair

Congratulations to Causey student Haleigh Hartmann who placed 3rd in the Chemistry category at the USA Regional Science Fair.

Burns Middle School Red Ribbon Leader

Grayson Morgan completed her Red Ribbon Week Leadership Service project and delivered all of the items collected to the Environmental Center. Thank you Grayson for representing Burns and serving our community.

Old Shell Student Places 2nd in State Gymnastics Meet

Carlie Utsey, 2nd grader in Mrs. Hastings' class at Old Shell Road Magnet School competed in a state gymnastics meet and placed 2nd in the competition's "All Around" in her age group. Congratulations Carlie! 11

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Autauga County Schools Cottage Hill Scholars Bowl

The Cottage Hill Christian Academy Middle School Scholars Bowl teams had a wonderful season competing in the Bay Area Scholastic Challenge. The A team finished 3rd for the year in the Red Division. The CHCA B team finished 1st in the Red Division. Peter Olsen finished as the 2nd highest scorer for the season. Go Warriors!

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Collier Archery Team Competes in Montgomery

The Collier Stingers stung like bees at the State tournament in Montgomery! Coach Lindsey McCarthy said, “The Stingers came in 12th place out of 28 teams. The hard work and determination that each of the archers have put in is demonstrated at every tournament. I can say I am proud to be a coach of this archery team.”

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

Call

633-9559

June 11th - June 27th

to Register.

June 11th-27th

Princess Camp Age 2 and 3 year olds

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

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

Ballet Adventure Camp Age 4 and 5 year olds

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

JoJo Hip Hop Camp Ages 6 and up

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

6429 Hillcrest Park Ct. • Mobile, AL • 251.633.9559

Debbie’s School of Dance • 6429 Hillcrest Park Ct. • Mobile, AL • 251.633.9559 Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

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Satsuma High School Blood Drive Exceeds Goal

In a well-organized and choreographed event, Mrs. Christina Ebbert, RN, our Health Science Instructor, along with some of her CNA students and Life South, collected 75 units of blood, exceeding the established goal. This is enough blood to save 225 lives! To everyone who had a part in this effortâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;students, teachers, and community members---THANK YOU!

Youth Leadership Mobile Team Helps Salvation Army

Over 25 students from over 14 area local schools were selected as members of Youth Leadership Mobile. These students served the local community in several capacities. For their final project of the year, the members chose an organization or group to support and provide services to. Pictured here is the team of Lesley Chapman of UMS, Landon Clarke of St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Danielle Payne of McGill-Toolen. These students collected mini toiletries from their schools, families, friends and other groups and delivered them to the Salvation Army. Every student was able to learn about what it takes to be a leader in the community and to work as a team.

George Hall Elementary Honor Society Induction On April 5, George Hall Elementary held the induction ceremony for the Elementary Honor Society. We congratulate these students for displaying excellence in academics, leadership, responsibility and service. Students pictured from left to right: Jaylen Roberts, Tylan Walker, Jasiah Reese, Ameryia Arnold, Kirstan Hale, Anya Lee, Aubrey Stallworth, and Khamari Davis.

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County MCPSS ItAutauga Starts with MeSchools Award Winners

Mobile County Public Schools recently surprised four students as its It Starts With Me award winners for the 2018-19 school year. They are: Georgia Howell of Mary G. Montgomery High School, Samuel Gaston of Causey Middle School, Haedyn Wiggins of J.E. Turner Elementary School and Allison Brown of Leinkauf Elementary School. These students will be honored at the It Starts With Us awards ceremony on May 2 at Murphy High School. Howell (pictured top left) survived life-threatening injuries from a car accident in October. While she could have studied from home after her release from hospital and rehabilitation center care, she chose to go to MGM, where she has maintained a cumulative GPA of 4.27 and is a member of the National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society. As a member of the school’s leadership class, she has also given back to her community through volunteering at elementary school field days, sock drives for the homeless, blood drives and other activities. “I wanted to come back right away,” she said. “I’ve worked really hard to get where I am so I can get scholarships and go to college and I wasn’t about to let it be thrown away because something happened. Accidents happen, but you don’t have to let it stop you.” Gaston (pictured bottom left) has a passion for helping special-needs students. He has volunteered to tutor special-needs students at Causey’s feeder elementary school and acted as a special helper to another at Causey, helping him between classes. He and a group of classmates will serve as runners at this year’s Special Olympics in Mobile and he organized a fundraiser to provide T-shirts for the student-athletes and volunteers. He has also been involved with Feeding the Gulf Coast, Our Savior Angel Tree program, Meals on Wheels, Kiwanis Kids, along with being a member of the National Junior Honor Society and a Duke TIP recipient. “I feel like special-ed students are sometimes left out because of their disabilities and I just want to make sure they’re incorporated in everything else that normal students do,” Gaston said. Wiggins (pictured top right) has overcome a speech impediment to be a leader at her school. She started a drive to collect muslin swaddling blankets for infants with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital, and also collected money for carriers, sleeper beds and other supplies for the hospital. “I’ve been struggling with my speech half my life,” Wiggins said, “and I know that if I can go through the stuff that I go through, I know that everyone can do something to help the world become a better place.” Brown (pictured bottom right) is a member of Leinkauf’s student council, National Elementary Honor Society and Golden Leprechaun News team, along with other organizations. Last year, she spearheaded the “Many Miles” program, collecting over 100 pairs of shoes for homeless children. This year, she and two classmates created a Secret Santa Shop to support school programs. “I know kids can make a difference,” Brown said. “We have wild imaginations and we can make our imaginations a reality in a snap.”

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McDavid-Jones Teacher of the Year

McDavid-Jones “Teacher of the Year” for 20182019 is Mrs. Shelia Lambert. To help her celebrate this occasion Arkema, our Partner in Education, invited Shelia and her husband, JimBo, to lunch at Half Shell.

SHE ONCE BUILT A FORT SO LARGE, THAT IT UTILIZED EVERY BLANKET, TOWEL, AND CHAIR IN THE WHOLE HOUSE.

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This is Mrs. Lambert’s eighteenth year of teaching. Through the years, she has taught 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades. She graduated from Citronelle High School in 1996. Upon graduation, she enrolled at the University of Mobile where she obtained her Bachelors and Master’s degrees in Elementary Education. In 2017, she graduated with an Ed.S. from the University of West Alabama. Mrs. Lambert has served on many school committees, including: grade level chair for 1st and 2nd grades, Science Committee, Field Trip Planner, Fall Festival, Kind Hearts, and she has helped plan and organize three Christmas programs. She has mentored new teachers and welcomed education students into her classroom. Congratulations to Ms. Lambert! Pictured Jill Dickinson Principal, Shelia Lambert Teacher of the Year, JimBo Lambert, Dwayne Christian Accountant, Judy Smith Plant Administrative Assistant, Bruce Weaver Purchasing.

St. Dominic 8th Grader Becomes Published Author

Congratulations to William Coym, a Saint Dominic Catholic School Eighth Grade Student, who is now a published author! The story was written during the annual NANOWRIMO novel writing challenge hosted by Middle School English teacher, Mrs. Jeanette Connally. The title of his novel is "Crash" and can be purchased on lulu.com. William also excelled this year during Scholars Bowl and won 1st place as highest individual scorer for the season in his division and 3rd place overall for all divisions! Great job William!

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Autauga County Schools

North Mobile Christian Teachers Receive Red Carpet Treatment

St. Mary Alumna Reads to Kindergarten Class

St. Mary Catholic School welcomed St. Mary Alumna Katie Dolan, Class of 1998, for a reading of â&#x20AC;&#x153;May Day May Day, A Coast Guard Rescueâ&#x20AC;? By Chris L. Demares to her former teacher, Mrs. Ellen Marstonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kindergarten class. Katie, also a grad of McGill-Toolen and Spring Hill College, just completed Coast Guard Boot Camp and is soon headed to Petaluma, California for special training.

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Parents and guardians at North Mobile Christian made sure their teachers received the red carpet treatment for Teacher Appreciation. The workroom was adorned with celebrity decor and a chocolate fountain station! They received a red carpet entry because they are our Superstars! The lunchroom was glamorized with a Wall of Fame of teachers and staff. One attendee responded "God has indeed blessed North Mobile Christian School with the most wonderful parents and guardians."

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Faith Academy Student Named National Merit Finalist

Faith Academy Senior, John Shuford was named as a national Merit Finalist. He was chosen out of approximately 15,000 seniors in the country. John will have the opportunity to advance in the competition for National Merit Scholarships. Congratulations John Shuford on this amazing honor!

Kite Day at Mobile Christian School

Mobile Christian’s K5 classes enjoyed a kite day on the football field. They flew kites, had a picnic and had lots of fun!

UMS-Wright Recognizes Spirit Award Winner

"Give to us a noble SPIRIT, that we, with our teachers, may go forward to achieve the highest goals in life." - UMS-Wright Student Prayer Every year, UMS-Wright awards six deserving students in each Middle and Upper School grade a distinguished “Spirit Award.” A Spirit Award is based solely on character and is voted on by the faculty. In addition to the recognition, the award winners receive a coveted Spirit pin to be worn on their blazers! 5th Grade Winners: Emma Hollensworth, Madison Lathan, Lane Nichols, Trey Strom, Preston Tanner, Walker Turner | 6th Grade Winners: Mae Elliott, Rhea Mostellar, Gracie Reynolds, Nicholas Cooper, Colton Fowler, Matthew Monson | 7th Grade Winners: Caroline Corley, Katharine Goodloe, Ann Wright Hanes, Thomas Arendall, Cartan Church, Christopher Marshall | 8th Grade Winners: Claire Johnson, Sarah Kittrell, Virginia Otts, Conner Fowler, John O’Connor, Sutton Snypes | 9th Grade Winners: Harris Cooper, Colby Gorman, Hayden Salter, Campbell Johnson, Anna McAnnally, Payton Offerle | 10th Grade Winners: Will Pappas, Cameron Snypes, Edwin White, Katie Holston, Emma Hwang, Hayden Owen | 11th Grade Winners: Clarke O’Connor, Jack McAnnally, Charles Milling, Jordan Chow, Johanna Ehrhardt, Emmie Mayson | 12th Grade Winners: Jeb Barber, Constantine Catranis, Graf Sullivan, Megan Hwang, Katie Price, Katie Morris.

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Autauga County Schools Community Helpers Visit

Prichard Prep Honor Society and SGA Students Conduct Animal Shelter Drive

Lighthouse Students

Recently students at Lighthouse Baptist Academy enjoyed a great afternoon for our “Community Helpers Spotlight” We heard from several of our local law enforcement officers, had a k-9 demonstration, got to see an ambulance and army trucks up close, and our entire student body was challenged by Commissioner Jerry Carl on serving our community. The students enjoyed hearing from these public servants and they also enjoyed showing them our love and support. Thank you to all of our officers, EMT, fire fighters, and military for what you do for our city!

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Students in the Honor Society and SGA held a 2-week donation drive for the Mobile S.P.C.A. Pictured are the students with PPS faculty members, Mrs. McHenry and Mrs. Hubbard, along with Jody Stanford with the Mobile S.P.C.A. As a reward, students received a visit from the animals helped by their generosity. We are so proud of our students for wanting to give back to our community!

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• Riding - English, Western, and Jumping • Swimming • Heated Pool • Ropes Course • Climbing Tower • Outdoor Nature Skills • Sports • Soccer • Basketball

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

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Little Flower Catholic Faculty Pitches in for Success

Leprechauns at the Loop, the annual parish festival at Little Flower Catholic Parish, owes its success to many factors, including support from the energetic faculty. Teachers from each grade level played a part in making the night of music and good food so successful.

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St. Pius Students Receive Ribbons for Art

Budding Artists are flourishing at St. Pius X Catholic School. Five students, ranging from kindergarten through 8th grade were awarded ribbons for their individual art pieces at the 2019 Festival of Flowers. They are, from left to right, Payton Lehocky 5th grade, (held by her sister Taylor, Kinsley Willis - kindergarten, Sarah McMurray - 8th grade, Amelia Williams - 4th grade, and, Lexi McMurray - 2nd grade.

St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hosts Admission Panel Forum

St. Luke's hosted their first and very own admissions panel forum with reps from Syracuse University, Auburn University, UAB, Samford University, USM, USA, University of Alabama, University of Tennessee, and Spring Hill College. The students rotated through three rooms for discussion topics: Finding the Right Fit, Admissions 101: What are Colleges Really looking for? and The Money: Financial Aid and Scholarships.

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Schools Get Real-Life Look at Policy Indoor Soccer at Autauga CountyStudents Covenant Christian/North Mobile in Model United Nations Over 400 students from Christian ten different schools

The Covenant Christian School and North Mobile Christian School Middle School girls’ soccer teams played a series of indoor soccer friendlies this spring. Indoor soccer, or futsal, is exciting and fast paced. Futsal helps improve dribbling, technical skills, decision making, and speed of play. Covenant and North Mobile are hoping to involve more schools in the 2019 - 2020 school year. If your school would be interested in playing or learning more, contact Coach Blasingame or Coach Ray at 251-633-8055.

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in Mobile and Baldwin Counties participated in Davidson’s Invitational Model United Nations (DIMUN). Many global issues were discussed among different committees at this two-day event, held at the Mobile Convention Center. The event concluded with a General Assembly, bringing all the committees and students together in one final meeting to argue and pass resolutions.

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

Camps kick off MAY 27, 2019!

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St. Ignatius Kindergarten Fashion Show

St. Paul’s Leadership Class Tutors Have Fun Day at Prichard Prep

The Kindergarten Fashion show is always a fun time for our students. This year the theme was Story Books. Each student selected a book and dressed as the character. They each had a line about the character and together put on a production for the entire school and family and friends. Pictured at the cast part are Brady Young, Monroe Ladd, Virginia O'Neil and Linen Ladd.

Corpus Christi Catholic Places in Competition

The Scholar Bowl teams from Corpus Christi Catholic School qualified for the Bay Area Scholastic Challenge Super Tournament that was held on March 22. The teams made it to the quarterfinals out of more than 20 teams. In addition, the A-Team placed 1st for their division and the B-Team placed 3rd. Two students from Corpus Christi received individual honors for the season. Shawn Mullen received the first place medal for the individual with the highest score from the different schools in the division, and Grant McNally placed 3rd. Also, Shawn received a medal for the 2nd highest individual scorer from all divisions!

The Leadership Class at St. Paul’s Episcopal School comes to the PPS campus every week to tutor/ mentor Prichard Prep students. The last visit each year is always an activity-filled, fun day! Thank you so much to PPS board member, Leslie Lerner, with St. Paul’s for making this happen each year – we so appreciate all that you and your students do for PPS!

Mr. and Miss MCS

David Martinez and Rylee Buzbee were selected as Mr. & Miss MCS for 2018-2019. Each year the faculty at Mobile Christian name one senior boy and one senior girl as Mr. and Miss MCS to be announced at the Junior-Senior Banquet. The titles Mr. and Miss MCS are given to the two students that are considered to be the best combination of the following characteristics: scholarship, character, leadership, service and physical fitness (based on their senior year).

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Autauga County Schools

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Revelation Students Participate in Lego Exposition

Revelation Christian School's 3rd graders participated in the First Lego League Exposition on March 16. The students had the opportunity to travel to Huntsville to display their Lego moon base. While in Huntsville, they also visited the US Space and Rocket Center. Great job Eagles!

McDavid-Jones Holds Third Quarter Awards

On April 2nd, McDavid-Jones Elementary, held their Third Quarter Awards sponsored by Arkema. Students were recognized for A-AB Honor Roll, Perfect Attendance, Most Improved Student and Accelerated Reader. We would like to thank Ms. Judy Smith, Arkema, Plant Administrative Assistant, for all she does for our school. In picture: Caleb Hayes, Evan Garris, Judy Smith, Alaina Byrd, Kimbri Cooper. These students are in Ms. Byrd-Weaverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first grade classroom.

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Burns Middle School Teacher Wins $10,000

Burns Middle School would like to congratulate Ms. Aleta Stone for winning $10,000 in the NSTA Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge. Way to go!

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McT Yearbook and Literary Magazine Wins State

McGill-Toolen Catholic High School students competed in the annual Alabama Scholastic Press Association competition on the campus of the University of Alabama. The students competed onsite and also have submissions from the previous yearbook and school literary magazine. The Vespidae, McGill's yearbook, led by Mrs. Lindsay Koen, won 14 awards for 2018 and won 7 onsite awards for the 2019 competition. The Ingenium, McGill's literary magazine, led by Mrs. Mary Carter and Mrs. Nancy Fontenot, won 17 awards for 2018 and 7 onsite awards for the 2019 competition.

Living Word Christian Center Kingdom Academy Honors Mrs. Sonya Jones

On March 26, 2019, staff and students of Living Word Christian Center Kingdom Academy came together to honor the life of the late Mrs. Sonya Jones, whose sudden departure, due to a fatal automobile accident, left us heartbroken. Mrs. Jones was a beloved teacher at LWCC Kingdom Academy and more than that. She was a mentor to those she taught, always encouraging young people to move forward, pushing them up, showing them opportunities in how to get the most and best out of life. Letting them know their identity in Christ, that no matter their background, they are now kings and queens. Sonya Jones’ husband, daughter, sister, and friends had also joined the gathering and, together with the students and staff, formed a circle, each holding a balloon tied to a card with personal expressions. Pastor Delia Knox, Administrative Liaison of LWCC Kingdom Academy, prayed for all those involved. As the balloons with expressions were released into the clouds, a rainbow appeared which broke open the clouds and caused such inner peace and joy! As if symbolic for Mrs. Jones, who always had a smile on her face and radiated the presence of God, now sitting at the bossom of the Father, answering with one of her favorite expressions, “It’s all good!”

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Autauga County Schools

St. Dominic’s Principal’s List and Honor Roll Students

Burlington Makes Donation to Leinkauf ES

Burlington Stores Inc., through its partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org, donated $10,000 to Leinkauf Elementary

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School. Officials from Burlington surprised teachers and students with an oversized check during a pep rally. The $10,000 will be split among Leinkauf’s teachers to buy STEM – science, technology, engineering and mathematics – equipment for their classrooms. Dr. Quentina Pruitt, Principal stated, “I want to thank Burlington for their willingness to come Leinkauf and support our school as we build a great STEM program.”

Eighteen of our Eighth Grade students made the Principal's List and an additional eleven made the Honor Roll for Third Quarter! We are so proud of our students for finishing strong and know that the future holds great things for them! Way to go Eagles! Pictured Back row: Connor Littrell, Ada Barber, Stephanie Egle, Brooklyn Hadley, Parker Hart, A.J. Hansen, Grace Hosemann, Hannah Peacock, Peyton Williams. Front row: Lilli Midgette, William Coym, Abby Ferlise, Meredith Hamrick, Alex Heim, Trey Inge, Jasmine Irvin, Chloe Larson. Not pictured, Kaylen Miller.

Davidson Leads the Pack with Youth Leadership Graduates

Youth Leadership Mobile, a program of Mobile United, recently held its graduation and seven students from DHS graduated - largest number from all participating schools. These community leaders all spent the last eight months working on various group volunteer projects in community, such as St. Mary’s Home, MLK Cleanup at Tricentennial Park, Ronald McDonald House, Art Walk, Breast Cancer Walk, and more. They then work together to create their own project to impact the community. Congratulations to these grads!

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

Covenant Christian Track Team

The Covenant Christian Track Team recently competed in the Mobile Independent School Track Championship. Participants included: Bottom Row: Jude W, Elizabeth M, Graci H, Elva J, Adelynn A, and Hadley H; 2nd Row: Howie J, Drew R, Natalie R, Rebecca W, and Luke K; 3rd Row: Kathy H, Addie H, Victoria S, Madisan B, Elijah K, and Catherine K; 4th Row: Coach Rush, Amorette G, Maggie B, Morgan F, Macy J, Brandon W, and Jonathan R. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

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Causey Students Place at Technology Competition

The Causey TigerTales Production Crew members and TigerBots Robotics Team recently competed in the Regional Technology Competition at Coastal Alabama Community College. Causey Middle School walked away with the 3rd Place Spirit Award and several Level 3 group and individual awards. Twenty one students qualified to advance to the state competition in April at Auburn University in Montgomery. Computer Literacy - 1st Place Belle VanDyne; Animation - 1st Place Group Preston Mason, Maddie Mire, Zack Munger; Video Production - 3rd Place Group Lainey Cobb, Fallon Torbert, Allison Kelley; Video Production - Honorable Mention Group Wyatt Fant, Emeree King; Web Design - 1st Place Group Hunter Kilgore, Belle VanDyne; Web Design 2nd Place Group Avery Parten, Peyton Baker; Web Design - 3rd Place Group Madelyn Ricks, Teagan Morgan; Productivity Design - 2nd Place Individual Ali Syron; Multimedia - Honorable Mention Group Thao Nguyen, Ella Sanford; Audio - Honorable Mention Individual Madison Brooks; Robotics - 2nd Place Individual Ansley Ivey; Robotics - 1st Place Individual Thuy Nguyen; Productivity Design - 2nd Place Group Madison Ivey, Annie Le, Kamia Samuels, Lily Lami; Robotics - 2nd Place Group Tyler Sheffield, Hayden Mclean, Chris Fisk, Kelley Dinh; Robotics - 1st Place Group Dayla Ward, Michael Johnson, Ashton Young; Robotics - Honorable Mention Group Parker Hiatt, Alayna Laubenthal, Sawyer Colvin, Jackson Davis.

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Cottage Hill Christian Academy West Campus SGA members and T.A.L.L. Leadership students served breakfast at the Southwest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce's Annual First Responders Breakfast. CHCA thanks all those who provide protection and first response rescue in our community!

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Autauga County Schools

Allentown Elementary School March GATOR Kids

Pre-K – 2nd Grade Front Row: Rosie Coletta, Sky Agee-Rowser, Zihya Agee-Rowser, Maci Freeman, Aiden Way, Jase Graham, Liam Landry. Middle Row: Aimie Perkins, Elizabeth Ward, Riley Grace Wilbur, Jason Frazier, Desmond Morrison, Kipton Nicholas, Hunter Gerald. Back Row: Ashlynn Moye, Aaliyah Lovely, Kailah Schaaf, Carly Wilkinson, Weston Black, Janiyah Grasham. 3rd – 5th Grade Front Row: Wyatt Hastings, Addyson Parker, Chloe Vaughn, Heaven Hacker, Noah Charlton, Nehemiah Johnson, Johnny Bazzel. Middle Row: Ben Campbell, Kynlee Reed, Kaylee Munson, Nick Umbarger, Collin Fisher, Sophia Garcia. Back Row: Tyler Cook, Brodie McNair, Arianna Stallings, Colin Murphy.

Mobile Christian Class Makes Items for Special Needs Children

Mobile Christian’s 8th grade career class made several items for The Goodwill Easter Seals Early Intervention Program to help developmentally delayed children with physical therapy needs. They made items such as scooters, corner chairs, short tables for sitting and playing, a walk around table and a stander.

Causey Band Named Top Band in Disney Competition

Congratulations to the Causey Band who recently competed at Disneyworld. They won the Gold Award which is awarded to the top band in the competition. Causey had the highest score in the entire competition including high school bands! We are so proud of our band directions, Mr. Threadgill and Mrs. Greenwood, and all of the band members.

End of Quarter Celebration at St. Dominic

Kindergarten through Second Grade students enjoy celebrating the end of each quarter with a special ceremony called Town Hall. Students enjoy dancing, awards, and seeing Goldie, our school mascot. Kindergarten student, Natalia Vilaseca, could not hide her excitement and got to give Goldie a big hug! We are very proud of our young students and all they have accomplished this year!

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

Corpus Christi Sticker Collaborative Project Winner

Students in grades first through eighth at Corpus Christi Catholic School participated in a "Stick Together" collaborative project this year. Students who not only passed but scored well on their AR quizzes received stickers to place on a "Mystery Masterpiece" puzzle. Nearly 4,000 stickers were needed to complete this piece of art. A contest was held to see who could guess the piece of art and the name of the artist who created it. 7th grader, Gaby Jalkh, was the winner. She had an amazingly keen eye because she guessed quite early into the project. www.mobilebayparents.com

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MGM Key Club Places at DCON

MGM Key Club members attended the 67th Annual Key Club Alabama District Convention (DCON) where they competed in several categories at the state level. Makenzie Ladner placed first in the talent category; Lecia Barnhart placed first in both the table decoration and non-digital poster categories; Lecia Barnhart, John Weaver, Phillip Horn, Katson Otto, Katherine Berryhill, Grace Kelzmer, and Ethan Moon (Baker) placed third in the skit category; and MGM’s Key Club placed first in the single service category with their annual TrunkOr-Treat event. In addition, Key Club members Kaytlin Thornton and Ethan Rushing represented MGM well in the oratorical, talent, and scrapbook categories. Congratulations to these Key Club members along with sponsors Katrina Wooten and Melva Holliman on all of their accomplishments.

Faith Academy Students Help at Grand Opening Celebration

Faith Academy National Honor Society members were honored to help the Waterfront Rescue Mission with a grand opening celebration at their new storefront off of Cottage Hill Road. The girls did a fashion show with some of the merchandise and assisted patrons in the store. Faith NHS seeks to serve the community around us and share the love of Christ!

George Hall Media Center Receives Donation

The Alabama Education Association awarded George Hall Media Center with a check for $500 for showing excellence by encouraging students to read during their “Be a Champion and Read” contest. Our school had more than 75% of the student body to participate. Our students have developed a lifelong love of reading. Pictured from left to right: Eric Beck, Stephanie Mitchell, Melissa Mitchell, Robert Battles.

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Autauga County Schools

Clark-Shaw Students Travel to Selma for History Lesson

Clark-Shaw Magnet School is an Alabama Bicentennial School. Students travelled to Selma to learn about Frederick D. Reese, one of the Courageous Eight, and walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge with his family members. Social studies teacher, Miranda Manley met Reese in 2000. Reese was instrumental in organizing the marches for voting rights in Selma including the infamous Bloody Sunday March and Selma to Montgomery March. He is credited with inviting Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to Selma. Manley reconnected with Reese in 2017. ClarkShaw’s Alabama Bicentennial Project was inspired by Mrs. Manley’s connection to Frederick D. Reese and involves students collecting and preserving oral histories in memory of him. Clark-Shaw was honored to be included in Frederick D. Reese’s inspirational autobiography, Selma’s Self-Sacrifice, which is available for purchase on Amazon.com. Clark-Shaw would like to thank all members of the community for their involvement in this project. They encourage you to subscribe to theirYouTube Channel: Clark-Shaw Magnet School: Oral Histories of Alabama and watch the student created videos.

Parents who plan to send their children to Mobile County Public Schools for the 2019-20 school year are encouraged to get them registered online now. All students who are planning to attend an MCPSS school in the 2019-20 school year should be registered online before June 3. To register online, go to www.mcpss.com. Under “Register,” choose one of the following: Returning Students (for a student who has attended an MCPSS school) or New Students (for a student who has never been enrolled an in MCPSS school). Follow the directions provided and complete all information. Current students will receive their username and password from their school. Parents who need additional assistance should contact their child’s school.

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

Boys and Girls Clubs Sponsor Children’s Book Festival

About 4,000 local students attended the first-ever Children’s Book Festival sponsored by the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Alabama at The Grounds recently. The students heard stories, met authors, received a free book, and learned about their community. “We are doing our best to spark a love for reading with our kids,” said Rosa Monteiro, director of academic success with the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Alabama, adding that the ultimate goal of the festival is to get students to improve their reading proficiency. Kathryn McCrory (pictured), a fifth-grader at E.R. Dickson Elementary, was excited to receive the book “Worst Night Ever” by Dave Barry. “I read a lot of books,” she said. “When I read, it takes me to another world.” Characters from Dr. Suess, Alabama Public Television and Disney walked around the Grounds during the festival to meet the students, who came from Mobile and Baldwin County public schools, local private schools and home schools. Community agencies such as the Mobile Public Library, the Mobile Symphony, the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, the Mobile Police Department, local universities and others set up booths, and Lucy the screech owl from the Environmental Studies Center was also on hand to greet students. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

MGM Places First in National History Day Competition

Congratulations to Kaytlin Thornton, Sonja Hadder, and Megan Griffin who placed first in the group category senior division at the National History Day State Level Competition held in Montgomery on March 29. Their project “America’s Best Kept Secret” took a close look at America’s role in the development of the atomic bomb. Good luck to these ladies at the national competition to be held in Washington, D.C. later this year. www.mobilebayparents.com

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UMS-Wright Theatre Presents “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”

The UMS-Wright Theatre Guild presented “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” for their spring production. The cast, crew, costumes, props, and backdrops were outstanding! Congratulations to the Arts Department, Mrs. Delaney, and the entire crew/cast on a job well done. We are so proud of this talented group of students and cannot wait to see what they perform next! A special thank you to Iberia Bank and Encore Rehabilitation for sponsoring the performance! Cast and Crew: Sarah Kuehn, Reagan Jokerst, Ellie Moore, Caroline Block, Alex Baker, Sophie Goodwin, Ousley Langworthy, Madison McGilberry, Catherine Lyons, Rob Wingate, Andrew Gates, Sophie Martino, Isabella Williams, Rivers McMurphy, Ryan Rothermel, Hayden Salter, McCall Shivers, Cate Shirey, Lilley Alidor, Mary Elizabeth Howze, Chaney Scott McCorquodale, Rainey Tanner, Mary Webster Burke, Grace Lyons, Rebekah Chappell, Hudson Barnett, Trey Fowler, Andrew Gates, Katie Morris, Eleonora Newell, David Shivers, Leon Wallace, Abby Baker, Marcelle Ellis, Kate Johnson, Will Kaufman, Cole Kittrell, Alyssa LaCoste, Emma Samson, Larom Segev, Grace Sherman, Morgan Walker, Tradjon Wallace, Emmie Mayson, Serena Pipes, Eleonora Newell, Braxton McMurphy, Garrett LaCoste, Abby Baker, Hudson Barnett, Constantine Catranis, Angelo Castro, Addison Faggard, Ryann Jokerst, and Katherine Monson.

Basketball Skills at North Mobile Christian

North Mobile Christian School students had a wonderful time learning, practicing, and performing basketball skills while having fun. Coach Oliver and Coach Stacey led the program and completed the program with a scrimmage game to display all of the skills learned. Our goal at NMCS is to help each student grow in many aspects of their life. There are many other sports camps to follow.

Prichard Prep Annual FatherDaughter Dance

Prichard Preparatory School’s Annual FatherDaughter Dance was held recently and this year’s theme was “An Evening Under the Stars.” Pictured are Bailey Roberts and Jubilee Crabtree who looked lovely in their beautiful dresses and so grown up!

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Autauga County Schools

Living Word 5th Annual International Festival

On March 29, 2019, the Living Word Christian Center Kingdom Academy students hosted their 5th Annual International Festival with countries from around the world represented, fulfilling the vision of LWCC as directed by visionary Dr. Levy H. Knox. Students played games and sports from some of these countries: Sapo (Peru), Pilota Valenciana (Spain), Three Sticks (Israel), and Kwepena (Uganda). This was followed by a musical presentation of the song ‘Kingdom’ by Ruth La’Ontra. A cultural attire contest was held and all participating students looked fantastic! A special congratulations to Zyvair Thompson and Alexandria Otis who each won first place in their age group! Authentic dishes and desserts were prepared by students, parents and staff. Just to name a few: Groundnut Beef Stew (Uganda), Gazpacho (Spain), Chicken Schnitzel (Israel), Aji de Gallina (Peru), Arroz con Gandules (Puerto Rico), and Chicken Adobo (Philippines). While going by the food stands, visitors had the opportunity to partake in a silent auction by placing a bid on the international arts and crafts students had creatively put together: pan flutes, tile mosaics, paper bead bracelets, and even Picasso paintings! At the closing we could look back on an ALL-TOGETHER successful day for which we give glory to our multi-FACEted Creator! A special thanks to Ms. Nellie Kloosterman who coordinates our Foreign Cultures Dept.

Dickson Tech Team Wins Awards at Computer Fair

Congratulations, E.R. Dickson Elementary Tech Team! E.R. Dickson Tech Team attended the ACTE Computer Fair at Coastal Community College on Thursday, March 14 and brought back wins! Congratulations to the following students: Robotics Groups: Level 1 Honorable Mention: Kennedy Washam, Kennedy Daily, Jaleah Coleman, and Taylor Brown; 3rd Place: Isaiah Dinkins, Demerius Barnes, and Chloe Seals. Hardware Modification Groups: Level 2 Honorable Mention: Alexis Thiry, Sophia Irby, Treyvone Archie; 3rd Place: Timothy Dinkins, Cydney Garrett, Zaelyn Williams, and Lexington Bush. Literacy Test: Level 1 Honorable Mention: Chloe Seals. Digital Media Design: Level 1, 3rd Place: Raylee Edwards; 2nd Place: Madison Williams; 1st Place: Mason Pruitt. Multidimensional Design: Level 1, 2nd Place: Conrad Otts; 1st Place: Carrington Bridges. Participation Certificates: Jayden Juarez; Alexander Meola; Jordan Coleman; Camron Tucker.

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

MCPSS Schools Participate in Elementary Robotics Competition

Robotics isn’t just for high school and middle school students. It’s a growing part of STEM education in Mobile County Public Schools’ elementary schools as well. Recently, students from many of those schools got together at the Alabama Math, Science and Technology Initiative (AMSTI) and put their skills to the test in an elementary MasteRobotics competition. Winning the Grand Champion title was O’Rourke Elementary Team A, comprised of Mahtahseen Fatima, Madison King and Eli Milischuk. This team had the highest combined score in all challenges, and also had the highest score in the Supply Distribution Challenge. High-point winners in the other challenges were: Moon Maze Challenge: Leinkauf Elementary 5th Grade (Allison Brown, Giana Bullard, Bryan Chiguil & Caitlyn Young). Supply Search Challenge: Meadowlake Elementary Coding Kids (Zoie Anderson, Riley Norgon, Colton Smith & Micaiah Gibson). Spirit of AMSTI (teamwork & collaboration award): Dodge Elementary Dashers (Jon-Cooper Sweatt, Bennett Morgan, Maria Soekhies, Evan Bailey & Audrey Kirby). Pictured are three Leinkauf students who took part in the competition.

MCPSS 2019 HiQ Championship

After three years of close calls, Alma Bryant won a tightly contested final match for the 2019 HiQ championship, scoring 43 points to Baker’s 38 and McGill-Toolen’s 31. It was Alma Bryant’s third HiQ championship and its first since 2011. Bryant’s team this year consisted of five seniors and two underclassmen. The seniors are Victoria Serra, Skye Sutton, Jonathan Belle Isle, Michael Crawford and Larry Harbison. Suttree de Lorge is a junior and Braden Vick is a freshman. Unlike some other academic competitions, HiQ has a set curriculum, which students have an opportunity to study before the matches. That makes it as much a test of students’ study habits as their overall general knowledge. Alma Bryant received a prize of $2,000 for winning the competition, sponsored by New Horizons Credit Union and Mobile County Public Schools, and each team member received a scientific calculator. Second-place finisher Baker received $1,500 and third-place McGill-Toolen got $1,000. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

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St. Pius Speech Winner

Congratulations to the St. Pius X Speech Contest winner! Seventh grader Riley Kate Naman was the school champion of the St. Pius X Oratorical Contest. Riley Kate defeated 7 other competitors to move on to the Optimist International Oratorical Zone Contest.

Old Shell 4th Graders Present “Aladdin”

Students at Old Shell Road Magnet School have the opportunity to participate in theatrical productions like the most recent performance of Disney's “Aladdin”.

Little Flower Students Win Speech Contest

Congratulations to eighth grader Jim Pryor and seventh grader Farrah Coates who won the club level contest of the Creighton Optimism Club oratorical contest. Their language arts teacher, Miss Emma Solak, helped them prepare for the contest. "Taking part in experiences such as this helps students gain confidence and sharpens their ability to express themselves," said Miss Solak. "We are so proud of their accomplishment."

St. Luke's hosted a Color Run, for the Mobile Division of the Key Club, to raise money for Children's Hospital in Birmingham. All proceeds of the run go to Children's Hospital. The run was for children in grades K5-5th grade and turned out to be a fabulous event.

Davidson Senior Works with City Officials for Senior Project

Senior Qualin Westbrook, from Davidson High School, spent several days among city officials. He shadowed Jamey Roberts, Senior Director of Neighborhood Development, for a few days and got the chance to meet with Mayor Sandy Stimpson and other officials. Qualin is conducting research for his senior project about blight removal.

St. Luke’s Archery Team Qualifies for State

St. Luke's archery team had many medalists in our friendly fire tournament and many winners in the Dixon Tournament. Our elementary team and middle and high school team qualified for state in Montgomery.

St. Luke’s Hosts Color Run

Burns Middle School Student Places 1st in Shot Put Competition Congratulations to Shereene Guy from Burns Middle School for placing first in the Shot Put at the Hornet Invitational - Middle School Showdown. Continue your hard work and you will stay at the top. We are very proud of you.

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Covenant Christian School Scholars Bowl Finishes Great Season

Autauga County Schools

Little Flower Students Help Prepare for Spring Fling

Little Flower Catholic School hosts its yearly Spring Fling with the help of students and parents alike. Days of preparation assure a day of fun for the whole family. Games and music and good food are enjoyed by all the attendees. The boys pictured testing out the corn hole game are Ashton Henage and Prince Camonias.

Scholar's Bowl finished their season with Team A finishing 3rd in our division and Team B finishing 1st place in our division! Congratulations to both teams and their awesome successes!

MGM Takes First Place in Writing Competition

On Saturday, March 16, MGM took 1st place in 2 out of 3 categories in the Friends of the Library writing competition! Courtney McLendon (senior) won the essay division writing about her “second home” at the Semmes Boys and Girls Club. In addition, Michal Summerlin (freshman) won the short story division with “Lion of the Night,” which is about a young girl named Raven whose brother Sparrow has been taken from her. Congratulations to both of these talented young ladies!

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

UMS-Wright 4th Graders Visit State Capitol

A highly anticipated event that is always exciting for our Lower School students is the annual 4th Grade field trip to Montgomery! Throughout the school year, they have researched and studied Alabama History, so having the opportunity to see these places in person is very special! In March, the 4th grade students had the opportunity to visit many historic landmarks including the Rosa Parks Museum, the Archives & History Museum, Old Alabama Town and the State Capitol! While at the Capitol, the group even ran into 8th grader Harry Brown’s dad, State Representative Chip Brown!

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

North Mobile Christian School Celebrates Dr. Seuss’s 115th Birthday!

NMCS had a fun day in Whoville celebrating Dr. Seuss’s birthday! Students & staff dressed as their favorite character from a Dr. Seuss book, and kicked off the day with a parade. Middle school students got in on the fun by reading to classes and helping in our Dr. Seuss fun room.

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CHCA Student Wins AATSP Poster Contest

Each year, the Alabama chapter of the AATSP (American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese) sponsors a K-12 poster contest. Students who are in Spanish or Portuguese classes can submit digital or hand drawn posters. This year’s theme was "¡Juntos más fuertes: el español y el portugués!" which translates to "Stronger together: Spanish and Portuguese!" Katelyn Johnson, a junior at Cottage Hill Christian Academy, submitted a digital entry and won. She will now be entered into the National AATSP Poster Contest. Congratulations Katelyn.

St. Mary 30th Annual Casino Night Presents "Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend!"

Something fishy is going on in the St. Mary Art House! Students are preparing "Fish Art" as just one of the many student art auction items at this year's Casino Night for St. Mary Catholic. Mark your calendar for this 30th annual event, Saturday, May 4 at 6 PM as St. Mary Catholic School presents “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend!”, featuring live and silent auctions, great food and entertainment, and games with celebrity hosts. Purchase advance tickets at through www.StMaryMobile.org or contact the school office at (251) 433-9904.

St. Ignatius Mardi Gras Parade

St. Ignatius and the Order of Impalas had a wonderful Mardi Gras parade with over 90 floats represented. Special guests were alumni Kate Pfeffle and Griffin Dumont who represent McGillToolen as Azalea Trail Maids. It's a special coincidence that their colors are green and gold. They are pictured at the parade with Fr. Victor and Fr. Shields.

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McDavid-Jones HonorsAutauga Officer County Tuder Schools

McDavid-Jones honored MPD Officer Sean Tuder on March 11, 2019. After a bucket drop and treat sale to raise money, we decided to invite Mrs. Krissy Tuder to a ceremony honoring Officer Tuder to show our appreciation for his service. As she entered the building, she was greeted by PreK-2 students and staff who lined the sidewalks and hallways holding signs and offering handshakes and hugs. As she entered the gym she was welcomed by our 3-5 students and staff, Citronelle Police Chief, Tyler Norris, District 1 School Board Commissioner, Doug Harwell, Restoration Church pastor, John Blackwell, McDavid Jones principal, Jill Dickinson, and assistant principal, Amy Tillman. After an introduction, Pastor Blackwell spoke to students about the importance of having a giving heart and the student body sang “Proud to be an American” by Lee Greenwood. McDavid-Jones backs the blue!

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

Archbishop Visits St. Ignatius Catholic School

St. Ignatius was honored to have Archbishop Rodi with us on Ash Wednesday. He said Mass for the school and then visited all the classrooms with Ms. Gwen Byrd, the Superintendent of Schools. Pictured with Archbishop Rodi are Katie Adams, Mary Parish Hutchisson, Fr. James, Matthew Paragone, Fr. Shields, Anna Witt Cooke and John Paul McDonald.

Allentown Elementary Holds Talent Show

Allentown Elementary held its annual Talent Show recently to showcase the different talents of the students. The theme for this year’s event was Allentown Idol. Auditions were held and the top 12 acts were chosen to perform for the student body. Overall winners for this year’s Talent Show were: 1st place - Gracie Hope Wilson. Tied for 2nd Place was Kenley Ransom and the trio of Paige Holley, Isabelle Miller, Amelia Moore. 3rd place was also a tie going to and the duo group of Reese Smith, Kinsley Montgomery and Alexis Lowery.

St. Mary Catholic Inducts Newest NJHS Members Congratulations to the newest members of the St. Mary Catholic School Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society! Honored for the five pillars of citizenship, service, leadership, scholarship and character, students are elected by a Faculty Council to be inducted into the NJHS.

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

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How Colleges Use Kids’ Social Media Feeds

use on your other public social media, there’s a record of your rants and hostile posts, and it could come up when the school Googles you. You can’t go back in time and revise what you wrote. So make sure that the primary account you want the college to see is clean. And if you feel like sounding off in a public forum, make your posts constructive and cordial.

Hey, parents of college-bound kids: Share this with your son or daughter as soon as possible.

Will the weird stuff I like on other people’s social media reflect negatively on me? Probably not -- unless it’s illegal, extremely antisocial, or disturbing and it makes up the bulk of your feed.

What’s the easiest thing you can do to impress prospective schools? It’s not your GPA. It’s not the debate team. It’s your Instagram – and your Twitter, Snapchat, YouTube, and any other social media feeds that colleges can see. And yes, they’re looking. Get answers to the most important questions about what colleges want to see.

Could the school look poorly on me if I follow provocative figures on social media? It’s unlikely that they would use this against you unless the majority of people you follow are very extreme and highly controversial. That could show that you’re not open to different points of view, which could be problematic in college. If you’re interested in a topic, seek out a range of opinions. Also, follow people who are influential in the area you’re interested in -- including the colleges you’re applying to. It will help you learn about the field -- and hey, if the school notices, it shows you’re serious.

Should I delete my social media or make it all private? Making it private is a good idea anyway. On most social media, a private account means your name won’t come up in search results, and it limits your digital footprint (how much stuff about you is available on the web). You don’t have to delete your accounts, though. Colleges expect prospective students to have social media. But if you’re applying to schools, it won’t hurt to groom your privacy settings on all your social media to make sure you’re not overexposing yourself. Some social media allows other people to tag you even if you’re not friends (such as through the facial recognition feature on Facebook). You wouldn’t want someone else’s post to negatively impact a college’s perception of you.

What should I do if I think a school unfairly disqualified me because of my social media? Because colleges receive so many qualified applications, they’re typically looking at social media to see if it tips the scales in anyone’s favor -- not to dig up dirt. Maybe another applicants’ social media just made that person seem like a better match for the school. But if you think a skeleton in your Facebook closet came back to haunt you, you can contact admissions and find out.

Do I have to delete every single party pic of me and my friends? No. Actually, colleges like to see that you’re a well-rounded person with a healthy social life. The main thing that could hurt you is posts that reflect poor judgment. When Harvard College got wind of offensive material being posted to a group chat by incoming freshmen, it rescinded acceptance letters to 10 students. That’s one reason not to post that kind of stuff. Get rid of any photos and videos that contain inappropriate behavior such as drinking, sexy stuff, and lots of swearing -- and no hostile speech, rudeness, or negative tweets about a school that you’re applying to.

Do my likes, followers, and other indicators of social media popularity help me or hurt me in the college admissions process? If you’ve actively pursued a specific passion -- say, music, photography, or even the evolution of the shoe from ancient times to present -- and you’ve cultivated an active, engaged audience on social media, that’s a plus. College admissions will see that you have drive and initiative. On the other hand, having a big audience for more typical random teen interests, such as internet memes and cat videos, may not even register (and won’t be held against you).

I once got in a public war of words with someone not on my social media but on another online forum. Will that hurt me? It might. If you posted under the same username that you Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

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Be Intentional with Your Time Q. As a business owner, how do you find a life balance between work and home? I have my own small business, and sometimes I feel like I’m putting in too much time at the shop and not spending enough time with my husband and kids. A. The idea of everything being in balance, on an everyday basis, is a myth. It’s simply not possible to perfectly juggle every aspect of our lives every single day. The key, I think, is to strive for an overall balance over time. You know first-hand the long hours and how work can interfere with other things if you’re not careful. The

answer lies in really being into whatever you’re doing. When you’re not at your shop or taking care of work-related matters, actively participate in conversations with your spouse and kids—and listen. Spend time with them! Turn off your cell phone when you go on dates with your husband and when you take your kids on outings. When you’re with your family you should really be with them. Then, when you have to work, chances are they won’t be so upset, and you’ll feel better about things, too!

Don’t Go Too Far Q. Our son is 17, and he is in school. He has a good part-time job, and my wife and I started teaching him basic money management at a young age. He understands

the importance of saving, giving, and spending, plus he is setting aside money for technical school after he graduates from high school. Do you think it would be an appropriate real-world exercise if we started charging him a very small amount in rent each month to prepare him for life when he leaves home?

A. I appreciate the fact that you’re looking for teachable moments, but I really think charging a teenager rent while he’s living at home is going too far. Now, if he was 28 or 29, that’d be a different story. But as parents, it’s still your responsibility to provide a home for your 17-year-old child. It sounds like you’ve done a fantastic job already of helping your son grow into a responsible young man. He knows how to work, and he has grasped the basic concepts of managing money. With this kind of start, I’ve got a feeling your kid will be fine. I also think he has a great chance of becoming wealthy some day!

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The sounds of Pomp & Circumstance fill the air as we approach graduation season. When your graduate closes the door to childhood, you want to give him a gift that reflects that milestone. Stuck for ideas? No matter what your budget, you are sure to find a great gift for your graduate here:

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Spirit wear - Help your recent grad blend

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in at their new school by getting them some college spirit wear. Contact the school directly or go online to PrepSportsWear.com. They have an amazing database of colleges in the U.S and Canada.

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Luggage - Maybe your grad is taking a year

off and plans to travel. Whether they are traveling first class or backpacking across the country, they need something to hold their things. For daily use, consider purchasing a book bag for walking around campus or a duffle bag for the gym.

Toolkit - If your grad is planning to move out

of Mom and Dad’s house, they won’t have access to Dad’s toolbox. A basic toolkit from your local hardware store includes screwdrivers, pliers, a hammer, measuring tape and other handy tools.

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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

Gift cards - Gift cards are a one-size-fits-all

type of gift. New college students might appreciate a gas card or a gift card to Walmart, where they can pick up food, toiletries or household items. IKEA sells inexpensive furniture for small spaces.

A Basket of Goodies

- Whether your grad is starting out in his first apartment or headed to the dorm, he will appreciate a basket full of essentials. Fill a laundry basket with snack foods, toiletries, a sewing kit, and a roll of quarters for the Laundromat.

Books

- A classic graduation book is Dr. Seuss’ “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” which is an inspirational graduation sendoff for all ages. For practical college advice, try “The Secrets of College Success” by Lynn F. Jacobs. To record their college experiences, consider buying a 5-year journal.

Money - The most popular gift for grads is

cash. The question is always, “How much should I spend?” Check out Simchabucks. com for a cash gift calculator. Fill in your relationship to grad, state the event takes place, who the gift is from and your household income to receive a dollar amount suggestion.

Homemade gift

- If you have the time to make it, a homemade gift is a heartfelt one. Make a pillow or quilt out of high school and sports t-shirts. Put together a scrap book of high school memories and include theatre programs, sports medals and football programs. Create a photo montage of pictures from Kindergarten to graduation and present it at her party. MBP Pam Molnar is the mother of a high graduate this year. With a summer filled with parties to celebrate the Class of 2018, she will have the perfect gift for all the graduates in her life.

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A Page in a Book Time for Everything One of the hardest things to explain to children is the intangible movement of time. For a toddler asking when they can have a snack, our response of ‘in a few minutes’ means very little to them. You can show them a timepiece or a calendar, but a child’s true understanding of time evolves mostly through their experience. Following routines that are dictated by the time (bed, bath, school) helps them cultivate an understanding of minutes and hours. Life events like vacations, birthdays, and holidays inform their knowledge of days, months and years. The following titles also highlight the passage of time in ways that nurture young readers’ understanding of the variety of ways we measure our moments.

Forever or a Day

by Sarah Jacoby (Chronicle Books) Traveling from the city to visit family in the countryside, the journey of a boy and his parents is the perfect vehicle to mark the personal nature of the passage of time. Poetic language calls out the fickleness of time as it both creeps and flies, alternately observed or invisible. Jacoby’s watercolor, pastel and mixed media illustrations perfectly capture the varied sensibility of time through the experience of family and background characters, each group with their own perception of its pace. All along this family’s picture book journey, Forever or a Day beautifully highlights the tangible rewards that punctuate our individual navigations of time.

The Very Impatient Caterpillar

by Ross Burach (Scholastic) When a caterpillar notices his peers scrambling up a tree, he peppers them with questions, ‘Where are you going?’ ‘What are you doing?’ The caterpillar doesn’t understand their explanation of metamorphosis (or the patience it demands), but he does know he wants to be a butterfly, too! Approaching this change with a limited understanding of the process, the caterpillar gets his butterfly journey underway. But the waiting is a challenge as his perception of time is very different from reality. He had no idea that two weeks could move so slow. What follows inside the chrysalis is impatient caterpillar comedy gold as he tries to find innovative ways to pass the time. With dialogue definitely dominated by the wildly uninformed caterpillar, read-aloud partners will enjoy laugh-out-loud moments time and again throughout this celebration of patience.

Ecclesiastes: To Everything There is a Season

by Cynthia Rylant (Beach Lane / Simon & Schuster) Inspired by the well-known verses from Ecclesiastes, Cynthia Rylant selects couplets that are best understood by picture book readers and pairs them with her signature gentle illustration. Building on the call and response rhythm of the original verses, each two page spread is devoted to a time. The painting of a child’s first seed garden accompanies the phrase ‘ a time to plant’ while the following page shows the harvested bloom coupled with ‘a time to pluck up that which has been planted’. And so it goes, each turn of the page showcasing the balance of time through a peaceful ebb and flow of events that mark its passage. Quietly informing a child’s experience of time, Ecclesiastes is a lovely celebration of the seasonal nature of our moments.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

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Ages 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12 AT SOUTH COAST CHURCH 1000 CODY ROAD SOUTH MOBILE, AL 36695 Join us for a dynamic time of worship, learning the word all while laughing, enjoying snacks and all kinds of summer adventures! Register for this FREE event at SOUTHCOASTMOBILE.COM 41

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Ashland Place United Methodist Church

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

Bayou Sara Baptist Church

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

Chickasaw United Methodist Church

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

2019

Vacation

Cody Road Seventh Day Adventist

900 Cody Road South Mobile, 36695 Dates: July 8-12 Times: 5:30pm - 8:30pm Ages: 4 - 13 Theme: Roar! It’s sure to be a lot of fun and a helpful guide for the kids to learn more about GOD. This fun event is free! 251-633-8141 Codyroad@gmail.com codyroadal.adventistchurch.org

Bible Schools

Cottage Hill Baptist

Christ United Methodist Church ad on page 29

6101 Grelot Rd Mobile, 36609 Dates: June 24-28 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: Completed K3-5th Grade Theme: To Mars and Beyond Registration today at www. christunited.com/vbs (Online registration ends June 16). Register Early! $15 per child; $20 after June 1. Volunteers get one free child registration. One small step for your kids...one giant leap for God’s Kingdom! Blast off with the first VBS to land on the moon! To Mars and Beyond will help kids discover the wonders of God’s universe. They’ll become Voyagers on a journey through space, exploring where God’s power can take them. Beginning on Mars-they’ll lift off to distant planets on special missions to collect power sources. Along the way, they’ll learn how God walked with heroes of the Bible, and that God is always with them, too. This great adventure will have out-of-this-world fun, learning, and timeless Bible stories that inspire kids to give glory to God, who is able to do far beyond all that we could ask or imagine! (251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com/vbs

Corpus Christi Catholic Church ad on page 11

6300 McKenna Drive Mobile, 36608 Dates: June 17-21 Times: 8:30am - 12:00pm Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

Ages: K-5th Grade Theme: ROAR! Life is Wild~ God is Good Registration begins online after Easter. Registration Fee is $45 and covers themed shirt and snack. Contact Diane Stoyka- dianestoyka@yahoo.com for more info. (251) 342-5474 dianestoyka@yahoo.com www.corpuschristiparish.com

South Coast Church ad on page 41

1000 Cody Road South Mobile, 36695 Dates: June 11 - 13 Times: 9:00am 12:00pm Ages: 5 - 12 Theme: Power Up Our South Coast Kids Conference is three days packed full of fun! Join us for a dynamic time of worship, learning the word all while laughing, enjoying snacks and all kinds of summer adventures! 251-455-0585 info@southcoastmobile.com www.southcoastmobile.com

Spring Hill Baptist Church ad on page 5

2 McGregor Avenue South Mobile, 36608 Dates: June 2-5 Times: 5:30pm-8:00pm Ages: Completed 4K6th grade Theme: Into the Wild: Amazing Encounters with Jesus. Join us for a Wilderness Adventure like no other. (251) 342-5320 www.shbc.cc

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

Covenant Presbyterian Church

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

Dauphin Island Baptist Church

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

Dauphin Way Baptist

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

Dauphin Way United Methodist Church

1507 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36604 Dates: July 15-18 Times: 8:45am-12:00pm Ages: Rising K4-Rising 6th grade Theme: Camp Adventure - Discovering God in Wild New Ways Join us this summer for Camp Adventure at Dauphin Way UMC! Camp Adventure will be a fun-filled week of discovering God through Prayer, discovering God through Creation, discovering God through People, and discovering God through Service. There will be crafts, songs, snacks, games, and time for our children to grow together in community with one another, along with loads of fun and memories that will last well beyond these four short days. (251) 471-1511 dwumcvbs@gmail.com dauphinwayumc.org/CampAdventure

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First Baptist Church of Dawes

3941 Dawes Road Mobile, 36695 Dates: June 17-21 Times: 6:00pm-9:00pm Ages: Completed 5K-6th grade Theme: Roar Life is Wild, God is good Come join us as we at ROAR experiencing God’s Word one memorable Bible Point is reinforced throughout each station, each day—making it easy to apply long after VBS is over. (251) 633-7331 fbcd.amyk@outlook.com

First Baptist Tillman’s Corner

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

Government Street Baptist

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

Government Street Presbyterian

300 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Dates: June 17-20 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Please visit gspcmobile.org/children for more details! (251) 432-1749 www.gspcmobile.org

Kingswood United Methodist Church

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

Lighthouse Baptist Church

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

Little Flower Catholic Church

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

Luke 4:18 Fellowship

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

New Generation Church

1350 North Cody Road Mobile, 36608 Dates: June 24-28 Times: 6:00pm-8:30pm Ages: 3 yrs-Adults Theme: To Mars and Beyond New Generation Church would like you to grab a Friend and prepare to take an incredible Trip to Mars! Please join us for on this epic journey that will include missions, games, snacks, songs, Bible stories, and so much more! (251) 344-0898 www.newgc.org

Saraland UMC

415 McKeough Avenue Saraland, 36571 Dates: July 8-11 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: K5-5th Grade Theme: To Mars and Beyond Come join us for, “To Mars and Beyond: Explore Where God’s Power Can Take You!” We’ll have Bible stories, games, music, crafts, and MUCH

MORE!! Register at http://tmab.cokesburyvbs.com/ saralandunitedmethodistchurch (251) 675-2728 www.saralandumc.org

Semmes First Baptist Church

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

Snow Road Missionary Baptist

809 Snow Road North Mobile, 36608 Dates: June 3-7 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: 4 years-12th Grade Theme: Farm Fresh Faith Register at the church on Monday, June 3 or preregister anytime on our website. (251) 649-0030 snowroadbaptistchurch@yahoo.com snowroadbaptistchurch.com

Sonrise Baptist Church

140 Snow Road North Mobile, 36695 Dates: June 17-21 Times: 5:30pm-8:00pm Ages: 3 yrs-Completed 5th grade (251) 776-7473 mobilesonrise@gmail.com www.sonrisebc.net

Spring Hill Presbyterian

10 Westminster Way Mobile, 36608 Dates: June 24-27 Times: 9:00am-11:30am Ages: K4-5th Grade Theme: Superheroes (251) 342-1550 anna@shpc.us shpc.us/vacation-bible-school/

St. Dominic’s

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

St. Ignatius Catholic Church

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

The Baptist Chapel

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

West Mobile Baptist

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

Westminister Presbyterian

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

Woodridge Baptist Church

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

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Marriage Turmoil Affects Your Teen Marriage is sometimes hard. Anyone who says differently either hasn’t been married, or is selling you something. What I want to remind parents of today is that marriage turmoil doesn’t stay contained between mom and dad. Each member of a family is connected to every other member. That means your conflict with your spouse almost always spills over into the relationship with your teen. Now, I don’t say this to lay a guilt trip on parents who are struggling in their marriage. Nor is this article designed to settle spousal disagreements. But some of the problems your teen is facing now could be the byproduct of the tension, anxiety and worry he feels as mom and dad work on their own relationship. I’d like to show you how to handle marriage conflict well, so that in turn, your teen will learn how to handle turmoil in a healthy way.

Emotional Isolation

When mom and dad start to drift apart, the family as a whole starts to fragment. As relationships in the house continue to shift and separate, pretty soon everyone becomes their own private island. It’s like having disconnected strangers living under one roof. No one is working as a team. No one is manning the walls and looking out for the family, and so feelings, events, and important moments begin to slip through the cracks. I asked one young girl in our counseling program how she was doing. It was a simple question and I expected a simple “doing okay” answer. Instead, the young lady proceeded to tell me everything about herself; everything she ever did, everything she ever accomplished, everywhere she had ever traveled and every talent she had. She told me all her hopes and dreams, and all her disappointments and failures in one breathless dissertation. She wanted me to know she is worth something and she pled her case based on her accomplishments. When she took a breath, I finally got a chance to wedge in a better question that might open a real dialogue. Her demeanor completely changed when I asked, “What’s the most difficult thing that has happened in your life?” Her chattering stopped, her eyes welled up with tears, and she replied, “When my dad left, I felt all alone.” Suddenly, there was silence. I stood looking at her for a few seconds and instead of trying to come up with the right words to say, I just gave her a hug. Finally, a real connection was made. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

Don’t allow emotional isolation to leave your teen feeling all alone.

Physical Isolation

Divorce or separation can definitely lead teens to feel physically isolated. But this can happen when parents are together, as well. Sometimes it takes the form of dad spending nights and weekends at the office, and away from the family. Or maybe it looks like mom devoting her free moments to various boards, committees and volunteer work, and never being home. We know the devastation divorce can bring on kids. But being married and always apart can do similar damage. Just like kids who feel emotionally isolated, kids who feel physically isolated from mom and dad will look elsewhere to fill the void in their lives. They may choose to spend little or no time at home. They’ll be prone to seek a sense of “family” elsewhere, usually with a peer group where it is easy to find acceptance and form attachments. Or your teen may try to imitate mom and dad by throwing themselves into school, sports, video games, friends, or social media in order to experience the feelings only quality time with parents can offer.

Putting It In Perspective

Now let’s look at some positive ways we can help and protect our teens even if our marriage is stormy. First, understand that your child is affected by your relationship with your spouse. Even

fights behind closed doors aren’t hidden from kids. They can feel the tension and sense the conflict. If you and your spouse aren’t working together and your marriage isn’t strong, your teen will know it—and may try to use it against you. I’ve had parents say to me, “We just can’t see eye to eye.” My reply is, “Then get counseling and fix it.” Don’t let pride keep you from doing what your kid—and your marriage—needs. You can’t get your marriage, or your family, where you want it to go without guidance and direction from others, and if you don’t stop and ask for help, chances are you’ll end up somewhere you never wanted to be. No one sets out to create a broken family, but without getting counsel and advice from others, you’re likely to create one anyways. 44

If your teen sees his parents working through their problems with a counselor, it will give him hope that his situation can be resolved as well. Don’t be afraid to share some of those struggles with him in the context of working toward a solution. Saying “We’re going to remain strong even when don’t agree” gives the child license to feel loved and accepted even in the midst of family conflict. Second, you’re not in the seventh-grade anymore, so don’t blame your spouse in front of the kids. Your teen doesn’t need to hear why his

mom can be hard to live with, or why her dad is inconsiderate. If you need someone to talk to about the problems in your marriage, find a pastor, counselor or friend. Do not air your dirty laundry in front of your child. Remember, spending time with your teen confers on them a sense of value that no one else can give. Even in the midst of working on your marriage, make sure to spend regular time with your teen. If you have the freedom to do it, take them to lunch, grab a snack after school, attend all games or school events, and communicate online. Send regular text messages to say “Hi,” or, “I love you.” Make sure your teen knows your desire to be involved in his or her life, or they’ll seek validation from someone else, and that can lead to bigger problems than you ever want to have with your teen. Lastly, Mom and Dad need to protect their marriage above all else. In fact, it is more

important than just about anything parents can do to help their kids. Parents who have kids approaching the teen years would be wise to prepare ahead of time by ensuring that they are on the same page, and that the foundations of their marriage are strong. Start taking steps today to guard your marriage from the problems that can arise during the teen years. And for parents who are experiencing difficulties with a teen right now, turn your attention toward your marriage first, to begin the healing process. No marriage is perfect. But the struggles between a husband and wife don’t have to spill over into the lives our teens. Once we realize how interconnected our family relationships are, we can take steps to assure our teens that they are loved, accepted, and valued. 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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One of the pitfalls of having holidays that focus on giving gifts to others is that we become a society of scorecard keepers. How did I do? Did I get more gifts than last year? Were the gifts given with genuine sincerity or did I sense feelings of obligation? Do I measure how others treat me as proof of how worthy I am? Here’s a little secret about gift giving and receiving on any occasion, moms. It’s not a competition. You are not the best mom ever if you get the most presents. You are the best mom ever if you let yourself feel good about the job you are doing every day, even on the most challenging days. And if you want a gift, whether you feel you deserve something special or simply because you think you should always feel treasured, go ahead and give yourself one. Be generous with yourself every time of year and others will follow suit during special times. Being a great mom means putting your needs first, instead of delegating that job to others and feeling resentful if they let you down. Here’s a little secret: other people can’t let you down if you don’t let yourself down. So pick yourself up during the mom-gifting time of year with a little reward for yourself. You always deserve something special just for being you.

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

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Foofy drinks. For her birthday lunch my daughter wanted

Self-care. A quick nap. A long bath with bath salts and

Exposure to nature. The civilized world gallops at a break-

Fresh flowers. Flowers are love. Love grows in the yard and I’m always expanding that repertoire of choices. Others come from small bouquets at the market I can mix and match. If you are feeling cynical about the gift of flowers, try a more playful approach.

Your favorite books and magazines. Few things make me cheerier than a glossy new seasonal magazine. Books inspire movies in our minds. Even the Internet with all of its diverse content cannot replace my insatiable thirst for hunkering down, one spread at a time, and escaping into artfully photographed and delightfully designed magazine pages. Don’t ever deprive yourself of your daily allotment of mental escape.

Scents you love. Jasmine. Lemon. Rose. Cinnamon. Juniper. Cookies fresh from the oven! You control your environment, so make it smell wonderful to you.

a tropical drink with a tiny umbella in it. And you deserve a tiny umbrella too, mom. Or maybe a dollop of whipped dream with a chocolate swirl or a little heart design atop your coffee foam.

bubbles. Saying no to everything that does not feel like a yes. Asking for hugs. I’d be willing to bet that moms who practice self-care live longer. For sure, they live happier.

neck pace. But nature helps us slow down to the incremental speed of life. The seeds we plant don’t sprout overnight. And we can regain our patience and our pacing by frequent exposure to the earth, air, sun, and stars.

Self-expression. Be your insouciant self today and every

day. What does this mean to you? If you are holding your breath, biting your tongue, biding your time, or practicing any other delay tactics that prevent you from living your life with the volume cranked up, seek assistance. Get around folks who lure you out of your shell and validate all the gifts you have to offer the world.

Belly laughs. I was on the phone with an old friend the other

day and the laughs just came cascading out. Nothing like chuckling over old antics or sharing a giggle with someone who has known you forever. Get your kicks in whatever way works for you and the cascading endorphins are an extra, feel-good bonus. Streaming sitcoms or reading comics also works well in a pinch.

Surprises. Don’t wait for others to catch you off guard.

Delight yourself with little impulsive decisions that make you happy now. A surprise isn’t just a big, painstakingly planned party. It’s at least 20 opportunities a day to be sweeter to yourself. Go ahead, choose differently. MBP

Delicious food. Keep at-home copies of your favorite take-

out menus. Sometimes mom needs someone else to do the meal prep, cooking, and serving. Besides, sitting down to be waited on every once in a while is a great way to power up your inner chef. Bon appétit!

Author, journalist, and writing coach Christina Katz definitely deserves more treats in her life. Luckily she never feels deprived because she gives herself enough to keep herself feeling fortunate.

Exciting NEW ATTRACTIONS FOR 2019

WaterPark opens May 18, 19, then seven days a week starting May 25!

CYBERVILLE USA

The most exciting line-up of Amusement Park attractions on the entire gulf coast!

A PREMIER VIRTUAL REALITY GAMING EXPERIENCE

LAUNCH PAD A TWO-PERSON BUNGEE TRAMPOLINE MADE FOR MAXIMUM FUN

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FamilyCalendar Saturday April 27

Market in the Park for Spring 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Market in the Park on Saturdays April 27 to July 27. www.ncsmobile.org 6th Annual Chickasha Bogue Paddle 8:00 AM 559 North Craft Hwy Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Paddlers will experience the nature and wildlife of the Tensaw River area. events.eventzilla.net/e/6th-annual-chickasha-boguepaddle-2138731924 Fowl River Area Civic Association Springfest/ Pancake Breakfast 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM, Community House, 5401 Fowl River Road Theodore , AL, 36582 Fowl River Area Civic Association Springfest/Pancake Breakfast at the Community House. The event includes a Silent Auction and Bake Sale. Wiggle Waggle Rescue Run 8:00 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36582 Bellingrath Gardens and Home will host the fifth annual Wiggle Waggle Rescue Run on Saturday, April 27. Guests are invited to participate in one of two races: A certified 5K run for humans only starting at 8 a.m. or a 1 mile fun run / walk for dog owners and their pups, which will begin at 9 a.m. Both races will benefit the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF). www.eventbrite.com/e/rescue-run-5k-and-wiggle-waggle-walkrun-registration-56400766210 11th Annual Delta Woods and Waters Expo (Free) 9:00 AM 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Featuring a variety of informative presentations, exhibitions and interactive displays by experienced outdoorsmen, professionals, educators and enthusiasts, the Delta Woods & Waters Expo includes numerous fun and exciting hands-on demonstrations which allow attendees to learn and practice new skills with one-on-one instruction. www.deltawoodsandwatersexpo.com 17th Annual St. Francis Episcopal Church Arts and Crafts Festival 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, St. Francis Episcopal Church, 401 Key Street Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The event features more than 50 artists and vendors from Dauphin Island and around the Gulf Coast as well as homemade gumbo, soups and fresh baked goods. www.episcopalchurch.org/parish/st-francis-episcopalchurch-dauphin-island-al Heavenly Hog Throwdown 9:00 AM Semmes Community Park, 10410 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 There’ll be music, vendors, food and, of course, barbecue. For information or for vendor or barbecue application, call Donna Brooks. 251-660-4808 Thunder on the Bay 2019 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Come celebrate the upcoming 155th Battle of Mobile Bay Sponsored by the 6th Alabama Cavalry and the Alabama Division of Reenactors. Saturday at 2:00 pm will be the Battle of Mobile Bay then at 3:30 a surrender ceremony, on Sunday at 1:00pm will be a Tactical. dauphinisland.org/event/thunder-on-the-bay-2019/

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

Art & Paddle Peninsula Style 11:00 AM McNally Park, 4380 Park Road Mobile, AL, 36605 For the second straight year, artists of all genres will gather on Mobile Bay’s western shore to share their talents. The FREE family friendly event features special musical performances by Laurie Ann Armour who is back by popular demand and renowned local artist Ryan Balthrop! Joining the fun will be storytellers, poetry. a children’s dance troupe, choirs, a Yoga class, a Martial Arts demo, a Kids’ Circle with Storytelling and Crafts. 3rd Annual Dauphin Island Bicycle Poker Run 12:00 PM - 4:30 PM, Various Locations - Dauphin Island, Dauphin Island, AL This year’s event will be more fun than the last one. We will have some new venues, new ways to get your cards, and a fun surprise to win raffle tickets at the last stop. Each stop will have food and drink specials, and we will have a live band at the last stop. This is a family event, and we encourage children to attend. Please come out and help us raise money and awareness for Share The Beach. Relay for Life 2:00 PM University of South Alabama Track Field, Mobile, AL, 36608 Cheer on Courageous Kids as they walk a survivor lap, Survivor/Caregiver Dinner Reception, Celebrate with Entertainment, Food and Games and Honor Those We Miss at the Luminaria Ceremony main.acsevents.org

Sunday April 28

Thunder on the Bay 2019 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Come celebrate the upcoming 155th Battle of Mobile Bay Sponsored by the 6th Alabama Cavalry and the Alabama Division of Reenactors. Saturday at 2:00 pm will be the Battle of Mobile Bay then at 3:30 a surrender ceremony, on Sunday at 1:00pm will be a Tactical. dauphinisland.org/event/thunder-on-the-bay-2019/ Taco Takedown 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Mobile Arts Council (MAC) is planning Mobile’s first-ever Taco Takedown –a day filled with tacos, tequila, talent and tons of fun! For the love of tacos and a good time, this new event will highlight local food vendors for their unique take on the versatile taco. mobilearts.org/ Mud Bottom Revival Music Festival 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM, 3619 River Du Chien Mobile, AL, 36693 Attendees are invited to bring picnic blankets, baskets and chairs to enjoy an afternoon of live music in the beautiful outdoor setting under the moss-covered oaks. There will be food available for purchase from a local food truck. www.eventbrite.com/e/5th-annual-mud-bottomrevival-music-festival-tickets-55940782386 Spring Spectacular 7:00 PM Redemption Church , 1251 Industrial Parkway Saraland, AL, 36571 This is an annual favorite for the Center for Performing Arts for students, friends and family. The extravaganza will feature many of the university’s 22 performing ensembles in a concert that closes out the University of Mobile Performing Arts Series season. umobile.edu/academics/alabama-school-arts/centerfor-performing-arts/performing-arts-series/

Saturday April 30

Pancake Breakfast for Wilmer Hall ($6.00) 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Wilmer Hall, 3811 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL, 36608 Please join us for a fun-filled morning of delicious pancakes, Conecuh sausage, Carpe Diem coffee, jumpies, face painting, games, puppies, and more! The Friends of the Mobile Animal

Shelter will be here with dogs available for adoption. www.wilmerhall.org

Wednesday May 1

Little Discoveries 10:00 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Included in General Admission for non-members. Free for Exploreum Members. Takes place in the Wharf of Wonders and is for little scientists six years old and younger. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Brown Bag in Bienville 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Bienville Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Spring has sprung in downtown Mobile! Come out and listen to the soothing Sounds of live jazz as you lunch in Bienville Square around the historic Ketchum Fountain. Catt Sirten sets up live musicians and the City sets up tables for your enjoyment each Wednesday in the Spring. www.ncsmobile.org Taste of the Bayou 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, 12745 Padgett Switch Road Irvington, AL, 36509 Come sample a taste of the bayou with us! Try some of the bayou’s most original dishes while watching some of the greatest chefs prepare their best dish for a golden ticket to compete in the World’s Food Championship! tasteofthebayou.org Celebrate Bellingrath Gardens & Home (Free) Theodore Oaks Branch, 5808 US-90 West East Theodore, AL, 36582 Theodore Oaks is delighted to partner with Bellingrath Gardens and Home during the month of May in celebration of the anniversary of Bessie Morse Bellingrath’s 141st birthday. A collection of stunning, visual images hand-picked by the staff at Bellingrath will be on display throughout the library. Visitors can enjoy a fun scavenger hunt, grab a trivia card to test their knowledge of famous landmarks in Mobile County, or color pictures of the Gardens. Kids will receive a take-home flower craft, and Trivia participants will be entered for a chance to win a Family 4 Pack, courtesy of Bellingrath Gardens and Home! Activities can be done any time during the library hours of operation. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday May 2

Hope Cup Golf Tournament 10:30 AM The Country Club of Mobile, 4101 Wimbledon Drive West Mobile, AL, 36608 The 7th Annual Hope Cup golf tournament is set for Thursday, May 2, at The Country Club of Mobile. The tournament, presented by Springhill Toyota, benefits melanoma and skin cancer research at USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m., with a golfers’ lunch at 11 a.m. and shotgun start at noon. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place teams, as well as for proximity and putting contest winners. Tickets may be purchased on eventbrite. usahealthsystem.com/events/hope-cup National Day of Prayer 12:00 PM Front Lawn of Town Hall, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The Town of Dauphin Island is pleased to announce the annual National Day of Prayer ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 2 at noon on the front lawn of town hall and everyone is invited to attend. townofdauphinisland.org

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FamilyCalendar Little Discoveries 2:00 PM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Cente Included in General Admission for non-members. Free for Exploreum Members. Takes place in the Wharf of Wonders for little scientists six years old and younger. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Cocktails with the Critters 6:00 PM Bluegill Restaurant, 3775 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 CWC will host its 14th Annual fundraiser for the Dauphin Island Sea Lab Foundation. The event will include a silent auction, live music, hors d’oeuvres and beer and wine! sealabfoundation.org Run the Roses for our Veterans! 6:00 PM Azalea Manor, 751 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Kentucky Derby is right around the corner! Break out the big hats and bow ties—it’s time for some fun and fundraising for our Veterans! Cocktails, mocktails and appetizers begin at 6:00PM and the festivities continue from there. “Bet” on horse races, win door prizes, bid on silent auction items, enjoy the DJ, photo booth and more! Prizes awarded for the best hat and most decked out! www.eventbrite.com Mercy Me Imagine Nation Tour featuring Crowder and Micah Tyler 7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL, 36602 MercyMe’s 2019 Imagine Nation

Tour will find the group traversing 30+ cities nationwide alongside fellow GRAMMY® nominee Crowder and multiple GMA Dove Award nominee Micah Tyler. 251-208-7906 www.MercyMe.org

Friday May 3

Little Symphony 2:00 PM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Little Symphony - Students will learn how to play recorders, percussion, and have the opportunity to try a variety of other musical instruments. Parents will need to purchase a recorder, and are encouraged to learn alongside their child. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com After School Special (Free) 3:30 PM West Regional Branch, 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Mother’s Day Will Soon Be Here! Come by the Library to make a beautiful card for your Mother! Snacks will be provided. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Playhouse in the Park presents “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” 7:30 PM The Playhouse-in-the-Park, 4851 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Enjoy the antics and adventures of Tom and his friends Huck Finn, Becky Thatcher, Aunt Polly, Joe Harper and many more. playhouseinthepark.org

Saturday May 4

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

Lions Club Tunnel Vision 5K 8:00 AM Government Street near the Mobile Public Library, Mobile, AL, 36602 Race to benefit Lions Club of Mobile. www.eventbrite.com GOTR Spring 5K 9:00 AM The Fort of Colonial Mobile, Corner of Royal and Church Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join our girls, their running buddy and their family on our new 5K route which winds through the streets of downtown Mobile. The celebration will begin and end at The Fort of Colonial Mobile www.girlsontherunsouthal.org/ 70th Annual Blessing of the Fleet 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, St Margaret Parish - Bayou La Batre, 13790 South Wintzell Avenue Bayou La Batre, AL, 36509 This fun event will include Alabama Gulf seafood, traditional Vietnamese Cuisine, a Gumbo Cook-off (Saturday only), Arts & Crafts Show, Decorated Boat Contest, Boat Cruises, Bingo, activities for children, and more. www.fleetblessing.org Semmes Heritage Day 10:00 AM Semmes Heritage Park, 3871 Wulff Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Semmes Heritage day will have music and entertainment, arts & crafts, vintage fashion show, Camellia Maids, exhibits and demonstrations and family fun. www.semmeschamber.org Hooked Up To Help Inshore Fishing Tournament 1:00 PM Ralph & Kacoo’s, 1595 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 The Hooked Up To Help Inshore Fishing Tournament is UCP’s oldest existing

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FamilyCalendar fundraiser! Anglers of all ages may enter flounder, speckled trout, white trout and red fish. The requirement: all fish must be caught in Alabama waters. Please visit ucpmobile.org for more in depth information on tournament rules. www.ucpmobile.org May the 4th Be with You! (Free) 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 S McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Celebrate Star Wars with a costume contest, Star Wars Bingo game, snacks and a Clone War Marathon. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 10th Annual Bald Eagle Bash 4:00 PM Weeks Bay Foundation, 11401 US-98 Fairhope, AL, 36532 Fresh Gulf shrimp dishes and desserts prepared by 16+ area chefs and restaurants, signature beer from Fairhope Brewing Co, great selection of wines, and. . . music by The Red Clay Strays! It’s the Gulf Coast’s greatest “Party for Preservation!” And, it the 10th Annual Bald Eagle Bash, so there will be plenty to celebrate. baldeaglebash.com St. Mary Catholic School Casino Night 6:00 PM 107 North Lafayette St Mobile, AL, 36604 Join us for or 30th annual event featuring live and silent auctions, entertainment, games with celebrity hosts, and “A Taste of Midtown” featuring local restaurants with some of their spectacular dishes! 251-433-9904 www.stmarymobile.org Influence Fashion Experience 7:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 INFLUENCE will be bringing designers from all over the World to bring you a fashion experience you won’t forget along! Exalte’s mission is to bring Fashion and Philanthropy together and we are proud to be partnering with Bella White, Miss Worldwide Teen Alabama of LOLC (Live Out Loud Charity). LOLC has educated millions of individuals globally on the signs of depression and suicide prevention. www.exaltemagazine.com/Exalte--Events.html Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents “Forte” 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents “Forte” mobilesymphony.org/event/forte Playhouse in the Park presents “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” 7:30 PM The Playhouse-in-the-Park, 4851 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us in May 2019 at the Playhouse-in-the-Park for Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”! Enjoy the antics and adventures of Tom and his friends Huck Finn, Becky Thatcher, Aunt Polly, Joe Harper and many more. playhouseinthepark.org South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Pied Piper of Hamelin” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theater, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Pied Piper of Hamelin” sbct.biz 2nd Annual Kentucky Derby Fundraiser Corpus Christi Catholic School, 6300 McKenna Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Kentucky Derby fundraiser for Corpus Christi Catholic School school.corpuschristiparish.com

Sunday May 5

70th Annual Blessing of the Fleet 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, St Margaret Parish - Bayou La

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

Batre, 13790 South Wintzell Avenue Bayou La Batre, AL, 36509 This fun event will include Alabama Gulf seafood, traditional Vietnamese Cuisine, a Gumbo Cook-off (Saturday only), Arts & Crafts Show, Decorated Boat Contest, Boat Cruises, Bingo, activities for children, and more. It is a tourist attraction and a community event that people of Bayou La Batre look forward to each year! www.fleetblessing.org Market at The Pillars 12:00 PM The Pillars, 1757 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36604 A fun afternoon of shopping local farmers, makers, bakers, crafters and artists! Live music. Local eats and specialty drinks. Best Bloody Mary Bar in town. Pet friendly and kid approved! The Market at The Pillars boasts over 50 local vendors. Shop local! 251-307-5382 2nd Annual Hobby Horse Derby ($20) 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for the 2nd Annual Mobile Hobby Horse Derby! This event is a fun competition for the whole family. Hop on your hobby horse, dress in your best race day costume, and compete to be top “dog” in Mobile! www.eventbrite.com Mobile River Food and Music Festival 2:00 PM Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 Food and music festival featuring local chefs and artists. Family friendly event where you can come out and relax on a Sunday afternoon and enjoy friends, food and good music as you unwind and prepare for the week. Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents “Forte” 2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents “Forte” mobilesymphony.org/event/forte Local Goodness ($150) 4:00 PM Strada Patient Care Center, 1601 Center Street Mobile, AL, 36604 At this unique farm-to-table event, Local Goodness pays tribute to local cuisine, art and music while raising awareness and support for our mission of providing the highest quality healthcare for the children and women in this region. www.usahealthsystem.com/events/local-goodness Playhouse in the Park presents “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” The Playhouse-in-the-Park, 4851 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us in May 2019 at the Playhouse-in-the-Park for Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”! Enjoy the antics and adventures of Tom and his friends Huck Finn, Becky Thatcher, Aunt Polly, Joe Harper and many more. playhouseinthepark.org

Tuesday May 7

5 Rivers StoryTime: Froggy Learns to Swim (Free)

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Road Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us in the theater to read “Froggy Learns to Swim,” followed by arts and crafts. Free, designed for children up to the age of 6 years. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Little Discoveries with Mr. Wayne (Free) 1:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Children Ages 3 to 6. Mr. Wayne from the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center presents lessons and projects fusing science and literature for preschool children. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Little Studio 3:00 PM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Little Studio is a early childhood program at the Exploreum, and will explore the intersections between Art, Creativity, and Science. All supplies for projects are included with the price of admission or membership. Please dress appropriately for art making! 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com

Wednesday May 8

Thursday May 9

Word/Play with ACAC (Free) 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Staff from the Alabama Contemporary Art Center join us for Family Storytime on the 2nd Thursday of the month. Preschoolers will explore contemporary art and music through handson and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of art. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Little Discoveries 2:00 PM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Included in General Admission for non-members. Free for Exploreum Members. Takes place in the Wharf of Wonders and is for little scientists six years old and younger. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Learn How to Paint Like Bob Ross (Free) 3:30 PM West Regional Branch, 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Want to create beautiful paintings but have no idea how to begin. Join us and learn how to paint like Bob Ross. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Kids Studio - Ages 8 to 13 (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 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. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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Evening Garden Stroll to Celebrate National Public Gardens Day 5:30 PM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36582 National Public Gardens Day is a time to recognize the important role of public gardens in promoting environmental stewardship. Join us for an afterhours Evening Garden Stroll to celebrate! Enjoy a demonstration on spring floral arrangements and container gardening from our Display Coordinator, Barbara Smith. We’ll have complimentary wine and cheese in our Gift Shop, along with samplings of the tasty treats on our shelves. bellingrath.org CCA Mobile Chapter Spring Banquet 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM, The Steeple, 251 St. Francis Street Mobile, AL, 36602 CCA AL Mobile Chapter Presents the 2019 Spring Banquet! Silent Auction, Games and Raffle. Tickets are $90 per Couple and $65 for a Single. Each ticket includes a one-year CCA membership, Dinner, and Drinks. www.ccaalabama.org/events

Friday May 10

Rock the Block (Free

admission)

5:30 PM - 8:30 PM, The Steeple, 251 St. Francis Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Come party with us at a street party like none other! Rock the Block will be on Joachim St between St. Francis and Dauphin

St. during ArtWalk. This family-friendly fun night will include food trucks, a fire truck for the kids to explore, entertainment, kids activities, face painting, Frios and so much more! LoDA Artwalk 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join downtown art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops as they open their doors and welcome you inside to see beautiful artwork, sample delicious foods and hear the sounds of the LoDa Artwalk. www.ncsmobile.org

Saturday May 11

Run Ride Scout 7:00 AM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 The fourth annual RUN RIDE SCOUT 5K, Duathlon & 1-Mile Family Fun Run benefits local scouting programs at the Mobile Area Council, Boy Scouts of America. www.bsamac.org/RunRideScout

West Mobile Golden Spurs Hunting Heritage Banquet 6:00 PM The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us at The Grounds May 10th at 6pm. We’ll have a great night of fun and fellowship as we save the habitat - save the hunt. events.nwtf.org John Crist 7:30 PM Cottage Hill Baptist, 4255 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, AL, 36609 John Crist, Comedian, and Viral Sensation is coming to Mobile and bringing his Human Being comedy tour alongside Dustin Nickerson & Aaron Webber to Cottage Hill Baptist Church on May 10th! www.premierproductions.com Playhouse in the Park presents “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” 7:30 PM The Playhouse-in-the-Park, 4851 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us in May 2019 at the Playhouse-in-the-Park for Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”! Enjoy the antics and

adventures of Tom and his friends Huck Finn, Becky Thatcher, Aunt Polly, Joe Harper and many more. playhouseinthepark.org

Market in the Park for Spring 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Market in the Park on Saturdays April 27 to July 27. www.ncsmobile.org Creek Fest Fun Run 9:00 AM Tricentennial Park, 2121 Lake Drive Mobile, AL, 36607 Join us for the FUN RUN at Creek Fest this year. www.creekfest.org Fifth Annual Creek Fest 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Tricentennial Park, 2121 Lake Drive Mobile, AL, 36607 The event will include a cane pole fishing tournament for ages 16 and under, along with other family-friendly activities. Live music, food and kayak rides also will be part of the half-

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FamilyCalendar day event as the natural beauty of one of Mobile’s historic waterways is showcased. www.creekfest.org Kids Studio - Ages 3 to 10 ($5, Free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 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. www.alabamacontemporary.org Crawfish for a Cause 2019 ($30, Kids ages 6-10 get

in for just $10 and kids 5 and under are free.)

12:00 PM The Grounds, 1035 Cody Rd North Mobile, AL, 36608 There will also be live music, kids activities and a silent auction. All proceeds raised from this event go directly to the University Hospital’s Arnold Luterman Regional Burn Center. www.eventbrite.com Curtain Raiser Gala 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, AL, 36604 There will be food, fun, silent auctions, and entertainment from some of our favorite musicians and cast members throughout the event. All proceeds will go towards preparing the theatre facility for the 2019-2020 season. 251-433-7513 www.mobiletheatreguild.org Home Free 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Home Free is bringing their TIMELESS World Tour to the Saenger Theatre in Mobile. www.mobilesaenger.com The PACT Players presents The First Annual Spring Gala: Catharsis 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM, The Steeple, 251 St. Francis Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us on May 11, 2019 for The PACT Players First Annual Spring Gala, Catharsis. The Spring Gala is a one-night musical revue and dinner held at The Steeple on St. Francis! Eventbrite.com Playhouse in the Park presents “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” 7:30 PM The Playhouse-in-the-Park, 4851 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us in May 2019 at the Playhouse-in-the-Park for Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”! Enjoy the antics and adventures of Tom and his friends Huck Finn, Becky Thatcher, Aunt Polly, Joe Harper and many more. playhouseinthepark.org Reading Paws (Free) 11:00 PM - 1:00 PM, West Regional Branch, 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Come meet the Pet Therapy dogs and their owners. Learn all about the dogs and the services they provide the community. Practice your reading skills with a four-legged friend. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Sunday May 12

Mother’s Day Evening Concert 5:30 PM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36582 The Mobile Symphony Youth Orchestra and Bellingrath

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

Gardens and Home will present their Annual Mother’s Day Evening Concert on Live Oak Plaza. Enjoy a late afternoon of music surrounded by the beauty of the Gardens. Limited seating will be provided, but visitors are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs. bellingrath.org Playhouse in the Park presents “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” The Playhouse-in-the-Park, 4851 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us in May 2019 at the Playhouse-in-the-Park for Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”! Enjoy the antics and adventures of Tom and his friends Huck Finn, Becky Thatcher, Aunt Polly, Joe Harper and many more. playhouseinthepark.org

Wednesday May 15

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

Thursday May 16

Word/Play with ACAC ($5, Free for members) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Word/ Play is a program that encourages children ages 2-5 to create works of art inspired by contemporary children’s literature. www.alabamacontemporary.org 2nd Annual Jazz & Cocktails 5:30 PM Ozanam Charitable Pharmacy, 109 South Cedar Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Ozanam Charitable Pharmacy is pleased to announce that we are hosting The 2nd Annual “Jazz & Cocktails… Rx for a Cause”. 251-721-0458 www.ozanampharmacy.org

Friday May 17

Little Symphony 2:00 PM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Little Symphony - Students will learn how to play recorders, percussion, and have the opportunity to try a variety of other musical instruments. Parents will need to purchase a recorder, and are encouraged to learn alongside their child. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 251-457-8887 cctshows.com Playhouse in the Park presents “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” 7:30 PM The Playhouse-in-the-Park, 4851 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us in May 2019 at the Playhouse-in-the-Park for Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”! Enjoy the antics and adventures of Tom and his friends Huck Finn, Becky Thatcher, Aunt Polly, Joe Harper and many more. playhouseinthepark.org

Saturday May 18

Armed Forces Day Celebration 6:30 AM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 Armed Forces Day will start at 6:30am with Alabama’s Fallen Heroes Memorial service then continue with the Alabama’s Fallen Heroes 5-K Run & Walk, retirement of the flag ceremony, and much more. Rock Climbing Wall, food & coffee trucks, Veteran Service Organizations, Military Static Displays including the UH Blackhawk, & local vendor booths! www.armedforcesdaymobile.com 6th Annual 5K Memorial Run/Walk For Alabama’s Fallen Heroes 7:00 AM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 Start your Armed Forces Day off by showing your patriotism and participating in our 6th Annual 5K Memorial Run/Walk & 1 Mile Fun Run for Alabama’s Fallen Heroes www.eventbrite.com Market in the Park for Spring 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Market in the Park on Saturdays April 27 to July 27. www.ncsmobile.org 2019 Cycling for Sickle Cell ($20) 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1453 Springhill Avenue Mobile, AL, 36604 The 2019 Cycling for Sickle Cell Ride is a fun ride to raise funds to benefit the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America - Mobile Chapter, Inc. www.eventbrite.com Drop In Make & Take (Free) 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 S McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Stop by the Library and make your own Cookie Pops! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Dumas Wesley Community Center’s Fourth Annual Plane Pull 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Brookley Aeroplex, 1891 9th Street Mobile, AL, 36615 Can you handle the ultimate man versus machine challenge? Dumas Wesley is challenging the community to participate in this extreme and unique event that pits teams against an Airbus aircraft weighing 130,000 pounds. Teams compete to see who can pull the plane over 12 feet in the fastest amount of time. The event is open to the public and will include entertainment, food trucks, children’s activities and an awards ceremony. Spectators are encouraged to attend and cheer on their favorite team! This fundraiser raises both money and awareness for the Dumas Wesley Community Center. www.dumaswesley.org Great Strides Walk 9:00 AM Providence Hospital Festival of Flowers field, 6701 Airport Boulevard Mobile, AL, 36608 Great Strides provides a fantastic opportunity for family, friends, students, and colleagues to come together and make a difference in the lives of people with CF. The event harnesses the power of people with a shared vision and encourages collaboration, team building, and leadership, as we collectively take steps to find a cure. fightcf.cff.org Intro to 3D Printing & CAD Software (Free) 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Calling all Teens -Come meet members of the Mobile Makerspace for a demonstration of cool things you can do with a 3D Printer and CAD Software. Registration is encouraged. For more information or to register, please call 494-2271. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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FamilyCalendar STEM with the Dauphin Island Sea Lab (Free) 2:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Calling All Teens. Remotely operated vehicles (ROV’s) are underwater robots that are widely used in marine science research, exploration and industry and are great tools to explore STEM! Come join the Dauphin Island Sea Lab as they share their ROV outreach exhibit with us. We will build, drive and fly ROV’s in their traveling pool! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org St. Mary Crawfish and Bluegrass Extravaganza! ($20 (Pre Sale Only), $25 (Day of Event), $15 Kids Age 13-18, Under 12 is Free)

3:00 PM 106 Providence Street Mobile, AL, 36604 St. Mary Crawfish and Bluegrass Extravaganza! Music by Fat Man Squeeze, Phil & Foster, and more! www.stmarymobile.org

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 251-457-8887 cctshows.com

Sunday May 19

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 2:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 251-457-8887 cctshows.com Autism Society of Alabama Day at We Rock the Spectrum 6:30 PM We Rock the Spectrum Gym , 1802 US-98 A Daphne, AL, 36526 The Autism Society of Alabama will be hosting an event for families at We Rock the Spectrum Gym. 251-259-5553 Playhouse in the Park presents “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” The Playhouse-inthe-Park, 4851 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us in May 2019 at the Playhouse-in-the-Park for Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”! Enjoy the antics and adventures of Tom and his friends Huck Finn, Becky Thatcher, Aunt Polly, Joe Harper and many more. playhouseinthepark.org

Monday May 20

Mrs. Bellingrath’s Birthday Celebration Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36582 Mrs. Bellingrath’s Birthday Celebration. Born on May 20, 1878, Bessie Morse Bellingrath left an enduring legacy of beauty in the Gardens and Home she created. bellingrath.org

Tuesday May 21

Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Farewell Play Tour 7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL, 36602 www.ticketmaster.com

Wednesday May 22

Brown Bag in Bienville 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Bienville Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Spring has sprung in downtown Mobile! Come

out and listen to the soothing Sounds of live jazz as you lunch in Bienville Square around the historic Ketchum Fountain. Catt Sirten sets up live musicians and the City sets up tables for your enjoyment each Wednesday in the Spring. www.ncsmobile.org

Friday May 24

Saturday May 25

Market in the Park for Spring 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Market in the Park on Saturdays April 27 to July 27. www.ncsmobile.org 6th Annual Sunset Cruise Car Show 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 6th Annual Sunset Cruise Car Show The Town of Dauphin Island welcomes you to the 6th Annual Sunset Cruise Car Show. Dauphin Island is a 14 mile long barrier island located near the mouth of Mobile Bay just 30 miles south of Mobile Bay. townofdauphinisland.org The Great Inflatable Race 9:00 AM Mobile Fairgrounds, 1035 Cody Rd North Mobile, AL, 36608 The Great Inflatable Race is a fun run with inflatable obstacles spread throughout the running course. You and your friends will feel like kids again as you jump, dive and bounce on our custom-designed inflatables. Get fit, support a good cause and create epic memories that will last you a lifetime! www.thegreatinflatablerace.com/mobile Mobile Pops Concert (Free) 6:00 PM Medal of Honor Park, 1711 Hillcrest Road Mobile, AL, 36619 Mobile Pops concert. www.themobilepops.com Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 251-457-8887 cctshows.com Commedia del Arte presents “Merlin the Kingmaker” 7:30 PM Episcopal Church of the Redeemer, 7125 Hitt Road Mobile, AL, 36695 Commedia del Arte presents “Merlin the Kingmaker”. In this whimsical retelling Morgan le Fey has bespelled some of the Lords and Ladies of the court, turning them into forest creatures. Can these bumbling fellows pull it together enough to help Merlin save Arthur before it is too late. This performance will feature Kymry Sword Dancers. The performance features elaborate costumes, comedy and drama while bringing to life a classic tale for new audience members. The original work of playwright Shari Prestwood it is crafted in such a way as to be enjoyed by all ages. While the performance is completely family friendly it is not solely written for children. www.commediadelarte.org

Sunday May 26

Love Yourself Healthy Women’s Conference 1:00 PM The Admiral Hotel, Mobile, AL, 36602 The Love Yourself Healthy Women’s Conference is the Port City’s inaugural health and self-love promotion

event in honor of National Women Wellness Month. www.lushconsultingfirm.com/lyhwomensconference Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 2:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” 251-457-8887 cctshows.com The Great Inflatable Race 6:00 PM Mobile Fairgrounds, 1035 Cody Rd North Mobile, AL, 36608 The Great Inflatable Race is a fun run with inflatable obstacles spread throughout the running course. You and your friends will feel like kids again as you jump, dive and bounce on our custom-designed inflatables. Get fit, support a good cause and create epic memories that will last you a lifetime! www.thegreatinflatablerace.com/mobile

Monday May 27

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

Wednesday May 29

Thursday May 30

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

Saturday June 1

Publix Grandman Triathlon 7:00 AM Fairhope Pier, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Publix Grandman Triathlon www.mobilebaykeeper.org/the-grandman-triathlon

Sunday June 2

2019 Publix Jubilee Kids Triathlon 7:30 AM Fairhope Pier, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join us in the beautiful city of Fairhope, AL for the Jubilee Kids Triathlon on Sunday, June 2 at 7:30 a.m. at the Fairhope Pier. www.mobilebaykeeper.org/jubilee-kids-triathlon

Thursday June 6

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

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FamilyCalendar Classes/Meetings

100, Mobile. www.familycentermobile.org or www. Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile.

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.

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,

Autism Support Group in North Mobile We have a social play room for higher functioning children (4 and up) to engage and relate. The idea is to have a safe place for parents of Autistic children in our community to link up and network with other families. 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Saraland United Methodist Church, 415 McKeough Ave., Saraland. For more info or to RSVP contact Chris Gibson. Email Chrisgibson4149@gmail.com, or 251-2817312. Breast Feeding Friendly Group (The BFF Group) A place where new moms can get one-onone breastfeeding help. Get to know other moms within the same community and possibly become a mentor. Breastfeeding professionals are able to provide newborn weight checks before and after feeding to help you to know if your baby is getting enough to eat. Nurses and other medical personnel can answer general questions. All are welcome, even if you haven’t delivered yet. Spouses and other support partners are also welcome. Every Monday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. (Except major holidays). We meet at The Allen Cox Building Conference Room, 205 Lambert Avenue, Mobile. Bridge Support Group The Bridge support group is a place where parents with similar experiences come together to share stories, advice and love. These families have had babies who: were stillborn, born with a lethal anomaly (such as Trisomy 13, Trisomy 18, skeletal dysplasia, anencephaly) or had a baby that only lived in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Our families are from all over the Gulf Coast and all have beautiful stories to tell. 1st Tuesday of every month, 5:30pm-until. Dinner is served. Meets in 1st floor conference room of Strada Center, 1601 Center Street, Mobile. Contact information: Rene Sprague RN, MSN rgilstrapsprague@ health.southalabama.edu 251-610-5264. Please RSVP if you plan to attend. Circle Of Hope, Sexual Assault Support Group Group meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Call Lifelines Counseling Services to schedule a 30 minute appointment before attending the group 251-431-5100. COH is a support group for victims of sexual violence to share in their struggles and learn ways to begin to cope with the pain and daily stressors that trigger the hurt. This group is free to attend. The Family Center The Family Center’s classes in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH minimum 24HOUR RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. All classes provide a certificate of completion. The Family Center of Mobile *Nurturing Parenting course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:3011:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Call 251-479-5700 to register. *The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. See daily listings for class topics. *Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 weeks. *Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (Four things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. *Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks.251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center classes. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

amandaLLLmobile@yahoo.com, meghanLLL@yahoo. com, or michelleLLLmobile@yahoo.com. Facebook: La Leche League Mobile Bay Area. Survivors of Suicide Support Group Meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lifelines Counseling Services, 705 Oak Circle Drive, Mobile. SOS is here to provide a supportive and judgement-free environment for you to express yourself and share your story. What can you expect? •A place to find support •A comfortable environment to express yourself •A judgement free environment •Resources for grieving Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, please call childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000. • Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Pre-registration is required; call 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. • Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Gastric Bypass Support Meets 2nd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia. Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care. Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital offers a variety of classes on Childbirth Preparation. All classes meet in Conference Room 1, (located just inside the front doors in the main lobby of the hospital by the gift shop), unless otherwise specified. Preregistration is required for all classes, and fees are collected in class. To register for classes, please visit our website at www.providencehospital. org, Women’s Services and click “Childbirth and Breastfeeding Classes. If you have any questions, please email us at maternityservices@ascension.org or call 251-266-1749.

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

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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Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Whether it’s a social experience, a creative performance or an individual expression of joy, dance offers healthy benefits for people of every age. While they are young and uninhibited, children are especially open to the physical self-expression of dance. Encouraging dance and interactive movement in children offers developmental benefits that go beyond physical coordination and health. Combining movement with the sensory inputs of sound and light can also teach children rhythm, counting, and listening skills. The following resources feature prompts that invite dance with playtime, adding movement and music into the mix.

by Gerry Paige Smith

BeatBo Learning Lights Dance Mat

Dance and Groove Rockit

Rewarding kids with danceable beats and light-up activities, the BeatBo Learning Lights Dance Mat is easily activated with just a bump or press from little hands and feet. The BeatBo figure gets the action started, directing little ones to try out specialized sections of the mat. Divided by color, each section features learning prompts for the alphabet, numbers, shapes and dance moves. Gross motor skills get a healthy workout as children crawl, walk and dance on the mat. Fostering thinking and problemsolving skills, music, lights, and phrases also help stimulate important the senses. Colorful and charismatic, BeatBo combines physical development with learning fun through this responsive play space.

Interactive and intuitive, Dance & Groove Rockit features a host of engaging activities that keep growing kids engaged and learning through play. Boasting a light-up face and motorized ears, Rockit has a belly-full of hands-on play with a numbers roller, ABC toggle switch, and a sliding door that teaches different shapes in English and Spanish. And the Glow ball offers its own features when activated, singing songs about colors, friendship, and best of all - movement! Rockit’s ability to repeat what kids say in three super silly voices adds a hilarious personal touch to the interactive play experience. Touching, listening, learning and movement all come together for developmental benefit when kids make friends with the Dance and Groove Rockit.

(Fisher Price)

Learn and Groove Musical Mat

Let’s Dance Elmo (Sesame Street)

Getting kids to move is a snap when Sesame Street’s Elmo is calling the dance. Mimicking his signature moves, Let’s Dance Elmo swings his arms, tilts his head, and shakes his hips while prompting kids to join in. With three buttons on Elmo’s headphones, kids can activate different musical modes featuring colors, animals, and songs. Encouraging children to follow his lead, Elmo’s heart lights up to match the color songs and to keep the beat as he moves. Elmo’s headphones also act as a handle so kids can take the Sesame Street dance party wherever they want to go. Faithful to his cheery persona, Let’s Dance Elmo’s familiar voice is ideal for encouraging all the right moves!

(LeapFrog)

With four feet of surface to explore, the LeapFrog Learn and Groove Musical Mat is the perfect jumping off point for physical learning play. Kids can discover the sounds of different musical instruments, create their own music, or explore beats and tempo with over 50 songs and phrases. Animal friends join the journey as children learn numbers or interactive clapping. There are also audio instructions that guide players through movements and sequences that build their coordination and thinking. Part dance, part discovery and all kinds of awesome, this super-size play mat is a giant leap forward for the littlest learners.

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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Little

Missing Link

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: DViolence: B Sexual Content: D Profanity: C Alcohol / Drug Use: D Thirteen-year-old Jordan Sanders (Marsai Martin) had a rough time in junior high, being bullied for her intelligence and interest in science. Fast forward two decades or so and grown up Jordan (Regina Hall) has decided that she would rather be the bully than the victim. She tyrannizes over the employees of her tech start up and terrorizes her assistant, April (Issa Rae). However, when she tries to push around the wrong child, she is cursed to be a young girl again. Waking up as her 13-year-old self, Jordan has to return to middle school, but will this experience teach her the lessons she needs to learn? This is a genuinely painful movie to watch. Bouncing from awkward sexual moments involving an adult in a child’s body to scenes of over-the-top cruelty and unpleasantness, Little is genuinely some of the least enjoyable two hours I’ve spent as a film critic. Nothing is as disturbing as watching a 13-year-old feel herself up and ask where her breast implants have gone. Not only isn’t it funny, but it’s exceptionally cringeworthy. The weird sexual dialogue between her and the adult characters is equally uncomfortable. Parental concerns are obvious here. While Jordan is, technically, a middleaged woman, she is depicted and treated as a child for the entire movie, which makes all of the scenes involving sex or alcohol especially uncomfortable. She spends a great deal of the movie trying to get her hands on alcohol, or worse, her eighth grade teacher. Additionally, the bullies in school aren’t physically violent but are just so unnecessarily intense that it’s distracting. It’s enough to make you wonder if the screenwriter has ever met a teenager.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: BSir Lionel Frost (Hugh Jackman) is desperate to prove the existence of all manner of fantastic beasts, from mermaids to unicorns, and even the Loch Ness Monster! Frost hopes to use this evidence to earn him entrance to an exclusive club for famous adventurers, “The Optimates Club”. Unfortunately for Frost, his membership is heavily opposed by its leader, Lord Piggot-Dunceb (Stephen Fry), who makes a wager with Frost, guaranteeing admission to the club if he can prove the existence of Bigfoot. As Frost leaves, Lord PiggotDunceb immediately sets out to sabotage him, hiring diminutive hitman Willard Stenk (Timothy Olyphant) to track him down. When Frost finds the Bigfoot, who assumes the name of Susan Link (Zach Galifianakis), Frost makes another deal: he will help Susan find a new home, and in return, Susan will give him some samples to take back to the Optimate Club to prove his existence. I’ll start with my gripes, since they’re pretty minor. First, the plot is basically just a reworking of Jules Verne’s classic novel, Around the World in 80 Days, but with a lonely Sasquatch replacing Passepartout. Second, the film builds a lot of jokes around Susan’s tendency to take everything literally, which for me, stopped being funny back when Star Trek was doing that with Data. Otherwise, Missing Link is a fun and surprisingly charming kids’ movie. The voice cast is superb, and Hugh Jackman is clearly having a blast. While some of the jokes fell a little flat, by being too complex for younger viewers and too dumb for parents, others got laughs from the whole theatre.

After

The Best of Enemies

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: DViolence: BSexual Content: D Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: D I am going to cut right to the chase – After has the wrong title. It should be titled Before because it’s basically a foreplay film, with multiple scenes where the main characters kiss, stroke one another, slide their hands under each other’s clothes, bathe together, and embrace standing, sitting, or in bed together. But director Jenny Gage has been careful and, since no actual nudity is visible, After manages to come in at the high end of a PG-13 rating. That rating is deceptive because sex is the entire raison d’etre of this sorry excuse for a romantic drama. Not surprisingly, the plot is thin. Conscientious student and all-round good girl Tessa Young (Josephine Langford) arrives for her freshman year at college and gets thrown in at the deep end with a wild roommate. At her first college party, a game of Truth or Dare gets very uncomfortable very quickly. After an emotionally charged encounter with Hardin Scott (Hero Fiennes Tiffin), Tessa leaves, but this won’t be the last time she sees him. The more often she runs into Hardin, the harder it is for Tessa to walk away. Despite Hardin’s self-absorption, he and Tessa wind up in a relationship and the sexual content in the movie takes off. I also need to point out that the movie has some annoying plot holes, a predictable resolution to the story, and a lot of one-dimensional characters. It also seems strange that university students spend so little time studying but apparently seem to excel in their coursework. In light of this film’s manifold flaws, I only hope that audiences avoid this flop instead of regretting it after.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: AViolence: C Sexual Content: AProfanity: D Alcohol / Drug Use: B The Best of Enemies is the 50-yearold, true story of Ann Atwater (Taraji P. Henson), a civil rights activist, and C.P. Ellis (Sam Rockwell), President of the local Ku Klux Klan chapter, and their fight over school integration in Durham, North Carolina. After a fire destroys the African-American elementary school in 1971, civil rights activists, including Atwater, sue for school integration. The decision process is transformed into a charrette (a debate where many stakeholders come together to solve challenging problems), orchestrated by professional mediator Bill Riddick (Babou Ceesay). The charrette becomes a crucible of confrontation and change, with Atwater and Ellis as pivotal and symbolic enemies. The final decision is made by a group of twelve voters with representatives from several factions in the community. The movie focuses on the battle for those votes between Atwater and Ellis, and their own personal struggle to keep talking to each other, despite their extreme ideological differences. The film is not for young children. And possibly not young teens. True to the time and place, racial slurs abound. Racist attitudes, expressions, judgements, and stereotypes proliferate throughout the film. That being said, this movie receives such a high grade because it is very well done, and alarmingly relevant. Both Taraji P. Henson and Sam Rockwell excel in their portrayals of these complicated, real life characters. I cannot recommend this movie strongly enough for every adult and older teen who wants to learn more about segregation and the history of racism in America. It teaches powerful principles of communication, empathy, and change. Go and see for yourself.

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2019

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Opioid misuse: Do You Know the Signs? Withdrawing 4. Difficulty from commitments focusing or and activities concentrating 2. Dramatic 5. Changes in mood swings appearance (poor hygiene, 3. Falling asleep weight loss) at inappropriate times (in class, 6. Behavioral markers (stealing money, during lunch) isolating oneself from family and friends)

RECOVERY ORGANIZATION OF SUPPORT SPECIALISTS (ROSS) 24/7 HELPLINE: 844-307-1760 ALL CALLS ARE CONFIDENTIAL

alabamapublichealth.gov/pharmacy mh.alabama.gov