Mobile Bay Parents November 2018 by KeepSharing

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science

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Come find out if ASMS is right for you by visiting our campus Saturday, Nov.10 or Dec. 1 for ASMS Day. Prospective families get a chance to see student-run classroom demonstrations and learn about a school that could change your life forever. Register for ASMS Day at www.asms.net. ASMS is our state’s only fully public, residential high school for sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in math, science, and the humanities.

Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply online at www.asms.net. Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. In 2018, 80 ASMS grads earned $10 million in merit-based scholarships with an ACT composite class average of 29.8. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.3250.

Register for the ASMS Day at www.asms.net. ALABAMA SCHOOL OF MATH AND SCIENCE • 1255 DAUPHIN STREET • MOBILE, ALABAMA 36604 • 251.441.2100 • WWW.ASMS.NET

November2018

Volume 8 Number 8

36 Columns

Mom of the Month 4

Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LMSW

Creating Thankful Kids Parenting Teens Ideas for encouraging children to be grateful all year long.

Kids Health Watch

Find 10 steps toward maturing your teen boy.

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Am I Overfeeding or Starving My Child? As the holidays quickly approach, we focus on food. It’s the time of year when our portion sizes get a little larger than normal, and while our foods may be tastier, they also tend to be more sugary. Even though this is a topic that affects us daily, I thought this would be an appropriate month to discuss eating habits. Many parents are concerned because their toddlers are not eating enough or do not seem to be growing. This is a very common comment, but is usually met with reassurance by the physician. A child doubles their birth weight by the time they are four months old and triples their birth weight by the time they are one year old. After one year, a toddler only gains about 4-7 pounds a year, so it is certainly a change in pace parents must adjust to. In America, we are also accustomed to larger portion sizes and truly forget how little nutrients a toddler or child really needs. A child should only need about 40 calories or less per inch of height each day. For example, a 30-inch child (an average one year old) would only need

1,000-1,200 calories per day. Compare this to an average, active adult male, who should be taking in 2,600 calories per day. Another way to consider portion size is that at a toddler (1-3 years old) should be eating about one-fourth of what the parent is eating at each meal. Preschool age children should be eating about one-half of the parents’ portion size. Once they reach the age of 4-5 years old, they should be able to choose their own portion size. It is normal for them to be inconsistent in their portion sizes from day-to-day. It is also normal for preschool age children and toddlers to not join the “clean plate club” at each meal. Children are usually pickier eaters between 2-5 years old. It is not unusual for them to refuse all but one type of food for weeks at a time, and then the next week despise the taste of last week’s favorite food. Parents should encourage children to try at least one bite of whichever food groups are being served. If children are going through a picky phase, it would be advisable to give them a daily vitamin. Once children

reach middle school years, which is usually around the onset of puberty, they should be eating close to adult-size portions. Healthy food choices are always important, of course, but especially so at this point in a child’s development. Regular servings of fruit and vegetables, limitations on sodas and junk food, and consumption of water will help encourage a life of healthy eating practices for their future. I hope everyone has a blessed holiday season, and enjoy the good cooking! The most helpful thing to remember is appropriate portion sizes. Your children are looking up to you, so set a positive example and make healthy diet choices for your whole family. 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 Honor 9/11 Community Helpers

To cumulate the unit on community helpers, the students in Mrs. Kayla Bardales’ first grade class at Allentown Elementary School remembered 911 by discussing what a real hero is and does. They learned that real-life heroes do not wear capes, fly or have magic powers. They discussed how real heroes have families, jobs and help out in our communities. Her class decided to honor the all the community helpers from 911 because of their bravery and courage.

Fonde Students Enjoy New STEM Lab

Fonde Elementary School recently opened a new K-2 Fab Lab. Mobile Area Education Foundation has partnered with us to help design the new STEM lab. Students in Kindergarten through 2nd grade visit the lab once a month and get to explore STEM activities that expand on what they are learning in the classroom. Each month has a different theme and September was Sound. Some of the activities students participated in were getting to test instruments made from recycled material, they explored sound through using electrical circuits, and even created their own instruments!

Pirate Family Literacy Night at Taylor-White Elementary

Teachers, students and parents came together for Pirate Literacy Night, at Taylor-White Elementary. It was an adventurous night of reading, writing and craft stations! Students even read stories to Captain Flash Sparrow!

A Look Inside the Public Safety Academy at Leflore

This year, all freshman are required to participate in the Public Safety Academy program at LeFlore Magnet High School. Students are exposed to several fire/safety drills that would be applicable at school, home and even in a workplace. Recently, they participated in a “Search and Rescue” drill. This drill was taught by the MFD Rescue team. Students were taught how to low crawl through a fire and how to retrieve victims; and all of this while dressed in FULL firefighting gear.

E.R. Dickson Named BCBS Be Healthy School

E.R. Dickson was recognized on Tuesday, September 25 as a 2018 – 2019 Be Healthy School by BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama. E.R. Dickson was one of 27 schools statewide to receive this award. E.R. Dickson received a $10,000 grant which will be used to implement a school-based health and wellness program that emphasizes increased exercise, nutritional education, and parental involvement during the school year. E.R. Dickson plans to use their grant to construct a rock-climbing wall. Congratulations to the Physical Education Department and all the students and staff of E.R. Dickson Elementary in becoming a BlueCross BlueShield Be Healthy School! Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

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Satsuma High Takes Strides Against Breast Cancer

The Satsuma High School Varsity and JV cheer squads participated in a campaign to raise money for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer during the week of October 1-5. They sold pink strips of paper for $1.00 that contained the name of a breast cancer survivor or a name in memory of someone. This group of young people then put the strips together in “chain” fashion to be displayed at a home football game the night of October 5, 2018. The squads together raised over $950.

Collier Elementary Goes Gold to Raise Awareness for Childhood Cancer

Students and staff at Elsie Collier Elementary School went GOLD every Wednesday in the month of September to raise awareness for childhood cancer. We also had our 2nd annual PJammin Day! Students were encouraged to donate to the American Childhood Cancer Organization in order to wear their pajamas, the battle uniform for kids with cancer, to school on September 28. Our school raised $1,032 for the ACCO and it was donated in memory of Aubreigh Nicholas. We also honored those survivors who are near and dear to the hearts of everyone at Collier Elementary: Evan Shropshire (Principal Michelle Shropshire’s grandson), Katelyn Tillman (former Collier student and daughter of Collier 2nd grade teacher Dina Tillman), and former Collier students Taylor Davis and Hailey Jones.

Grandparent’s Day at Prichard Prep!

Students were thrilled to have their grandparents on campus to enjoy a continental breakfast provided by the PTO. Grandparents also met their grandchild’s teacher and received a small handmade gift from their grandchild.

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Chromatography at Little Flower Catholic

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Autauga County Schools

Mrs. Kelly Poole’s eighth grade students were fascinated as they watched paper strips change colors during a paper chromatography experiment. As the paper absorbed the fluid in the beaker, students could be heard commenting, “That is so cool”. Making notes, from left are, Theodore Nzitonda, Grant Carney, Mia Uribe, and Madison Kenny.

Covenant Christian Teachers Love their Students!

The teachers at Covenant Christian School have had a great 1st quarter investing in, loving on, and teaching the students. As our handbook states, “We believe our Creator put us on this earth to teach. We will faithfully teach for His glory and accept our daily successes humbly, knowing that His grace has guided us.” We love our students!

St. Dominic Inducts Honor Society Officers

Mobile County Public Schools recently promoted its top JROTC cadets into countywide leadership roles. The brigade commanders for the 2018-19 school year are: • William Skull of Baker High as Brigade Commander • Ja’Kyla Lewis of Murphy High as Brigade Command Sergeant Major • Charles Cartee of Bryant High as Honorary Deputy Brigade Commander • Nathan McGregor of Vigor High as Honorary Deputy Brigade Commander • Melanie Yell of MGM as Honorary Deputy Brigade Commander. “These are the future leaders of our nation,” said Lt. Col. Robert “Frank” Barrow, who is over all JROTC programs in Mobile County Public Schools. “These are our future mayors, our future governors, our future lawyers and our future doctors.” Several of the students have already earned enough college credit to enroll as sophomores in college. One is already a soldier in the Army National Guard. They are all leaders at their schools and are students that their peers look up to. Two candidates from each of Mobile County Public Schools’ 12 high schools competed for these positions. These five cadets will lead a total of about 1,800 JROTC students throughout the district. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

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St. Dominic Catholic School recently inducted the officers of the National Junior Honor Society. These officers have met the established criteria of scholarship, leadership, service, citizenship and character. These students were chosen to serve in positions of leadership and have indicated their willingness to carry out the principles of the NJHS. Congratulations to (l – r) Prayer Leader, Grace Hosemann, Secretary, Ella Wilson, Grade 7 Vice President, Isabella Hansen, Grade 8 Vice President, Ada Barber and President, Lilli Midgette.

Five Mobile County ROTC Cadets Promoted to Leadership Roles

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PE at Burns Middle School

The Physical Education department collaborates with the Adaptive PE Coach to serve all students to ensure their success. Coach Campbell, Coach Coleman, and Coach Rustand work with Stephen Melson.

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CHCA Student Shines

Cottage Hill Christian Academy's senior Carleigh White was selected as a Red Shoe Krewe Ambassador for the Ronald McDonald House for 2018-2019. Carleigh was also outstanding in the Mobile County Distinguished Young Woman Program where she was honored to be selected as one of the Top 8 Finalists, was chosen as a Talent Award Scholarship Winner, and won a total of $194,300 in scholarship awards. We are so proud of our CHCA Warrior! Pictured, current DYW Karoline Copeland (left) and Carleigh White (right).

Faith Academy Student Wants to be a Mathematician

Ben Howard has advanced to the second round of The Who Wants to be a Mathematician competition conducted by The American Mathematical Society. Ben is the only student from Faith Academy who competed in round one to advance to the next round! Congratulations Ben Howard!

CORPUS CHRISTI CATHOLIC SCHOOL Building the Body of Christ, One Student at a Time.

Celebrating 60 Years! Established in 1958, Corpus Christi Catholic School provides students in K3 through eighth grade an outstanding education. The mission of Corpus Christi Catholic School is to nurture every child by providing opportunities to grow in faith, achieve academic success, and serve others as disciples of Jesus. 6300 McKenna Drive • Mobile, Alabama 36608 • www.corpuschristiparish.com/school

Questions? Please contact us: 251.342.5474 • school@corpuschristiparish.com CCS Generic Ad.indd 1

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McGill-Toolen Student Named Kiwanis Music Student of the Week

Congratulations to Senior Brigham Cason who was awarded the Kiwanis Club of Mobile Music Student of the Week! The Kiwanis Club of Mobile recognizes some of our most outstanding students throughout Mobile County, in both public and private schools, who happen to be leaders in their musical arts programs. Brigham is pictured with is parents John and Regina.

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St. Mary Catholic Celebrates Feast of St. Francis

St. Mary Catholic School celebrated the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, with the annual “blessing of the pets.” Pets of all shapes and sizes made their way onto St. Mary’s campus on October 4 to receive a special blessing from St. Mary Pastor, Rev. Mgsr. G. Warren Wall.

Autauga County Schools

Corpus Christi Students Bring Their Bibles

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October 4th was "Bring Your Bible to School" day, an event that was sponsored by the national non-profit organization Focus on Family. At Corpus Christi Catholic School, the day included a competition to see which homeroom had the highest percentage of participation of students bringing their Bible to school and other activities such as reading and sharing Bible stories with classmates.

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St. Mary Cheer Squads Learn New Moves The St. Mary Mustangs Junior and Senior cheer squads, along with their cheer coordinator Kim McCorkle, attended a 2-day camp at St. Mary Catholic School, put on by Universal Cheerleading Association (UCA). The cheerleaders learned several new cheers, dances and stunts. They are putting their new moves into action this football season.

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

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UMS-Wright Highlights Security Team

During National Security Officers Appreciation Week in September, we highlighted the staff that works diligently to protect our students, staff, and guests! We take pride in being one of only a few schools in Mobile that has controlled access just to get on campus, and also the only private school with an officer on site the entire school day. The UMS-Wright Security team is composed of 5 devoted individuals who have a diverse background in Law Enforcement, Military, and private security experience. Our security guards routinely patrol the campus, monitor vehicular entry, assist with performing safety drills, direct traffic, respond to alarms, monitor campus surveillance, assist with parking and vehicle protection, respond to disabled vehicles, and identify and assist guests. Pictured L to R: Mr. Schwann, Mr. Humphrey (Director of Campus Security), Mr. Bitterman, Mr. Loftin, and not pictured, Mr. Wheeler.

St. Mary Catholic at Mobile Chamber Business Expo St. Mary Catholic had a fun day meeting and greeting at the Annual Mobile Chamber of Commerce Business Expo! Pictured is St. Mary Principal, with St. Mary Student Ambassadors in a picture perfect frame with St. Mary's 2018-2019 hashtag, #MakingMaryProud.

Three St. Paul’s Students Recognized as National Merit Semifinalists

Officials of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced the names of the Semifinalists in the 64th Annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Three St. Paul’s Episcopal School students have been recognized as Semifinalists. Seniors Oladipupo Opefoluwa Fagbongbe, Danielle Botros Rizk, and Tianyuan Zheng have earned this honor and will be considered for National Merit Finalist status. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth approximately $31 million that will be offered in the spring. About 90 percent of the 16,000 National Semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing, and more than half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title.

5901-E Grelot Road • Mobile, AL 36609 • (251) 639-0801 • www.droliverortho.com 15

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Autauga County Schools

Mobile Christian Students Selected for USA Marching Honor Band Congratulations to the following students: Jordan Peasant, Nicholas Stork, Noah Roubik, Philip Fant, Belle Fant, and Rachel Culpepper from Mobile Christian School who were selected to participate in the University of South Alabama Marching Honor Band at halftime with the USA Marching Jaguars on Saturday, Sept. 15th! The students performed in the stands and at halftime with the college band. Students in grades 9-12 applied for the marching honor band and were selected based on previous honors and band director recommendations. The Jaguar Marching Honor Band offers the unique opportunity for high school students to experience taking the field to perform alongside the Jaguar Marching Band for an audience of tens of thousands.

Backpack Ministry at St. Ignatius Parish

St. Ignatius Parish participates in Backpack Ministry throughout the year. Backpack Ministry supports weekend food for families at E.R. Dickson School. We send home enough food for a family for the weekend. We send home up to 50 backpacks each week. Each quarter, the school children take on a challenge to collect as much food as possible to support this ministry. This fall, the students collected 2,931 items. Pictured with some of the collected food are 6th graders Mary Parish Hutchisson, Stanley McConnell, Bailee Smith, Thomas Carey, Frances Katz, Mattie McDonald, Bill Edmondson and Emily McKellar.

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Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

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Revelation Students Meet AR Goals

Students from Revelation Christian School were rewarded with a celebration for meeting their AR goal for the first semester. We were so proud to have had nine students achieve their goals!

Griggs Star Student of the Month!

Lily Roberson from Ms. K. Brown’s 1st grade class was honored at the Southwest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce Luncheon. Mrs. K. Brown’s class was voted STAR Class of the Month and Lily represented her class as Star Student! Way to go Shining Stars!

Join us for Parent Preview!

Sunday, November 11

2:00 p.m. ELC-8th Grade Curriculum Overview (Gym) 2:30 Campus Tour & Classroom Presentations Open Enrollment begins January 7

Carpool Fun at St. Luke’s

For Friday home games St. Luke’s, varsity cheerleaders and football players help with carpool duties on the lower campus. The students are greeted with high-fives and hugs as they arrive.

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Autauga County Schools

Taylor-White Elementary Character Kids for September

Pre-K: Mrs. Tatum - Bailey Beam. Kindergarten: Bartley – Ava Lewis; Jemison – Daniel Gatlin; Simmerman – Sayre Smith. 1st Grade: Meeks – Sadie Milstead; Miller – Kylie Gruwell; Vaughn – Lorelai Berry. 2nd Grade: Allen – Kendra Matchett; Cronk – Sa’Riyah Ham; Pierce – Elijah Lamastra. 3rd Grade: Loper – Hayden Boykin; Williams – Weston Warr. 4th Grade: McMullen – Sanai Cook; Parker – Price Easley; Ward – Connor Benefield. 5th Grade: Hall – Ty Warr; Lee – Cade Ikner; Trammell – Meagan Dodds.

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

St. Paul’s Freshmen Serve in Community Gardens Around Mobile

This year’s Freshman class spent the morning of Thursday, October 4 at five community gardens in the Mobile area. Victory Teaching Farms, Taylor Park, the Beehive, Light of the Village, and Central Presbyterian Church were hubs of activity as the students weeded, planted, mulched, composted, laid pavers, mowed, and prepared beds for fall planting alongside their chaperones David Armstrong, Tyler Kerns, Scott McDonald, Blair Fisher, Linda Garver, Alison Evans, Chelsea Haines, Tyler Hanks, Natasha Kendall, Sharon Mosley, Kelli Etheredge, Zac Lambrecht, Laura McGee, and Leslie Lerner.

Allentown Elementary School September GATOR Kids

Pre-K – 2nd Grade First Row -Samantha Gatewood, Journey Hirsch, Clarissa Ahner, Madilyn Shenk, Tationa Ramos, Annaleigh Sewell Middle Row – Jordan Gilley, Aleah Nadeau, Hanna Hadley, Drake Tong, Huck Sumrall, Isiah Johnson, Kileah McCay Back Row – Victoria Nguyen, Sophia Adams, Andrew Knox, Bryson Walley, MaKenzie White, Caden Lacy, Beto Hernandez. 3rd-5th Grade First Row – Angel Allen, Mason Row, Starren Dayze, Samantha Hamman, Kyndall Thomas Middle Row – Kelsie Bell, Presleigh Stokley, Bre English, Nancy Rodriquez, Jakari Evans, MaKayla Gurley, Jordan Mason, Malena Simonson Back Row – Cody Reed, Danielle Adams, Campbell Morton, Jayla Brown, Noah Nelson, Gracie Wilson. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

Pet Blessing at St. Pius X

All of our precious, furry and not so furry friends... St. Pius X School celebrated the Feast Day of Saint Francis of Assisi with their annual Pet Blessing. Students and parishioners were invited to bring their "pets" for a special blessing by Pastor S. J. Savoie. The event commemorated the great love Saint Francis had for animals.

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Phillips Pirates’ GIM’s! (Girls in Math)

Phillips Preparatory Middle School had 9 students attend the Girls in Math Conference at the University of South Alabama on Saturday, September 29. They enjoyed a morning filled with activities and a campus tour. Pictured left to right: (standing) Cecilia Johnson, Katelynn Do, Gracyn Martin, Katie Bendolph, Hana Ferraro, Leah Phillips, (kneeling) Ava Pervis, Elle West, Jennifer Hyre.

Davidson Student Earns Perfect ACT Score

Another Davidson High School student has earned a perfect score of 36 on the ACT college entrance exam. Senior Payton Emmertson became the third Davidson student and the fourth MCPSS student this calendar year to earn a 36, which will greatly help her chances to earn college scholarships and to be accepted to prestigious institutions. “When I opened the score, I started crying,” said Emmertson (pictured at right), who has taken the test three times and had gotten a 34 on her previous try. “It was such a confidence-booster. It helped me realize I actually can do stuff if I set my mind to it. “I wanted to get that 36 to prove that I could. Also, when you’re in that 34-to-36 range, each point you get is more money on a scholarship.” A member of the computer science pathway in Davidson’s Engineering Pathways Integrated Curriculum (EPIC) program, Emmertson plans to study computer science at BYU. Two of Emmertson’s classmates at Davidson, Isabel Bela and Joseph Stauter (pictured at left and center), earned perfect scores on the ACT as juniors this past spring, and Murphy junior Griffin Noble learned this summer that he’d also earned a 36.

Burns Middle School Assistant Principals Help Make School Great! Burns Middle School appreciates their Assistant Principals. Thank you, Mr. Hardagree and Mrs. Browning, for making this a great school year.

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Autauga County Schools

Faith Academy Wins First Place at Jubilee BEST Robotics Competition

Faith Academy Robotics team got the job done at the 2018 Jubilee Best Robotics competition! They received the following awards: Exhibit construction award, Exhibit interview - 2nd, Marketing - 1st, Spirit - 1st, Best video award and FIRST PLACE OVERALL! Faith is very proud of this amazing group of kids and their sponsors. They have put countless hours into preparing for this day. They are off to Auburn to compete in the finals. #ramtech2018

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E.R. Dickson Technology Team

Congratulations to the 2018 – 2019 E.R. Dickson Technology Team! Sponsors: Ms. Aimee Steele and Ms. Kathryn Pratt. Back Row: Raylee Edwards, Kennedy Dailey, Treyvonne Archie, Timothy Dinkins, Alexis Thiry, Sophia Irby, Cydney Garrett, Lexington Bush, Mason Pruitt, and Carrington Bridges. Middle Row: Madison Williams, Alexander Meola, Jayden Juarez, Taylor Brown, Asayaji Jones, Jaleah Coleman, Kennedy Washam, Conrad Otts, and Camron Tucker. Front Row: Zachariah Johnson, Demerius Barnes, Isaiah Dinkins, and Chloe Seals. Not Pictured: Zaelyn Williams and Jordan Coleman.

Mobile County Schools Receive Grants to Promote Health and Fitness

Two Mobile County Public Schools received $10,000 grants recently to fund projects promoting health and fitness at their schools. E.R. Dickson and Dixon elementary schools were among 27 schools around the state awarded Be Healthy School grants from BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama. E.R. Dickson will use its grant to install a rock-climbing wall, while Dixon will use its $10,000 to build a track. “A lot of the faculty here runs, so they want to get these children running and active so they have a healthy life, a healthy body, a healthy mind, and that hopefully will spread to their homes,” said Dixon Principal Michelle McNew, adding that the school has plans to start a running club for its students. “We believe in making sure the whole child is well taken care of. If their body is healthy, their mind will be healthy, they’re better able to learn and achieve.” E.R. Dickson Principal Katryna Kinn echoed McNew’s thoughts about the link between healthy bodies and active minds. One way her school promotes this idea is by providing a fitness room for use by its students. “The research indicates there’s a direct link between good health and academic success,” Kinn said. “We are committed to developing the whole child. With this grant, this will be made possible as we involve the entire school and the entire community with our health awareness and fitness efforts that focus on nutrition, physical activity obesity prevention and decreasing chronic conditions.”

Warrior Duo Players of The Week

Congratulations to Cory Alexander and Samario Rudolph for being selected as The Optimist Club’s Offensive Players of the Week for their performance in the CHCA 35-3 victory over Bayside on September 28th. Cory has 21 total touchdowns and Samario has 16 touchdowns to date as the Warriors have a 5-0 start of the season! #WarriorWay #WarriorDuo Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

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Mobile County Teachers Receive Golden Apple Awards

Three Mobile County Public Schools teachers were honored by Golden Apple Awards by WKRG last month. Mechelle Spriggs of Blount High, Laurin Tew of Mary G. Montgomery High and Tracie Robinson of Allentown Elementary were surprised in their classrooms with the awards, which are presented to teachers who believe in the true spirit of teaching by making classrooms a fun and safe place of learning. “I think for any educator, there’s no greater reward, or award, than receiving something from your peers, and especially from the students and the parents, who say you’re doing the job they expect you to do. That’s all I try to do,” said Spriggs, who teaches Allied Health/HCAP at Blount and was nominated for the award by a parent. Tew, a special education teacher at Mary G. Montgomery, was also Mobile County’s Secondary Teacher of the Year. She was nominated by several of her students. “She’s always been a very influential person in my life,” said one of those students, Claudia Woods. “She’s always pushed me to do my very, very, absolute best, and always made me feel a part of the family.” Robinson teaches fifth grade at Allentown and was nominated by longtime family friend Pamela Dunn, who said she was touched by how Robinson handled her class while one of her students, Aubreigh Nicholas, was battling DIPG. “I just watched what she did with the children and with Aubreigh, including all of them, and making sure everybody got their attention and needs met,” Dunn said. “It just impressed me that she went to that extent.” Now in her 13th year as a teacher, Robinson said her approach is to treat her students how she would want her child to be treated. “I love to be around them,” she said. “I love to see their faces when they get something and to see them succeed in life, as well.” Along with WKRG, the Golden Apple Awards are sponsored by the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office, Swift Supply and Riviera Utilities.

McGill-Toolen / Optimist Club Runners of the Week

Congratulations to Frieda Kickliter and Drew Roberts who were selected as the Mobile Optimist Club Runners of the Week! They are pictured with Coach Courtney Lewis.

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See You at the Pole at St. Luke’s

St. Luke's students gathered before school at the flag pole for National "See You at the Pole Day" to pray for our nation, our community, churches, and schools.

Autauga County Schools

Senator Presents Check to Allentown

Senator Rusty Glover presented a check to Allentown Elementary School in the amount of $3,000. The money will be used to purchase new computers to enhance the technology education at the school. Accepting the check for Allentown is Assistant Principal, Connie Krist. Thank you, Senator Glover, for your support!

Corpus Christi School Partnering with School in East Africa

Corpus Christi Catholic School is excited to announce a partnership with the Matim Primary School located in Arusha, Tanzania, East Africa. Last year, Corpus Christi donated school supplies to "A is for Africa", which supports the school. This partnership will be a wonderful opportunity for Corpus Christi students to learn about children in another part of the world, whose daily lives are so different from their own. The founder of A is for Africa, Molly Smith, visited Corpus Christi Catholic School in September and presented the school with the flag of Tanzania. Pictured are: Mike Schroeder, Carol DuPree, Molly Smith, Kristy Martin and Alison Dennis.

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

Corpus Christi School Thanks Mobile Firefighters

A few weeks ago, Mrs. Johnson's 2nd grade class made cards for Mobile Fire-Rescue Station 17 to thank them for their service to our community. In return, a crew the station brought the big ladder truck to CCS for the students to see.

St. Paul’s Students Attend Teen Alcohol and Drug Abuse Awareness Workshop

St. Paul’s was represented by eight students, Pack Stabler, Caleb Perkins, Yates Grehan, Sarah Greene, Hannah Archibald, Brittney Sharpe, Kate Strickland, Alexa Drum. TADAA is a one-day workshop designed to empower high school students to take an active role in keeping their school campus and community alcohol and drug abuse free. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

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National Merit Scholars at Davidson High School

Davidson had five students Commended by National Merit and three named as Semifinalists. Of the 1.5 million high school students who take the PSAT each year, only 3.3% are recognized as Commended Scholars and 1.1% chosen as Semifinalists. Commended scholars include Jacob Flechsenhar, Matthew Gillis, Sean Shelley-Tremblay, Isabel Bela, Joseph Stauter, Joseph Montano, Ethan Catrett & Matthew Bearse. Named as Semifinalists are Sean Shelley-Tremblay, Isabel Bela & Joseph Stauter.

Mobile Christian March Band Receives Superior Ratings The Mobile Christian High School Marching Band competed in the Azalea City Marching Festival on Saturday, September 29 at Mary G. Montgomery High School. The band received superior ratings in all captions. The band is under the direction of director Robbin Holder.

MGM / Kiwanis Music Student of the Week

Congratulations to Woodie Albritton for being selected Kiwanis Music Student of the Week. Woodie is a junior at MGM who plays the French horn in the marching band. MGM Band Director, Mr. Bennett, nominated Woodie for this honor and remarked Woodie possesses a “positive energy” which is “contagious.” Great job, Woodie!

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Autauga County Schools

Leflore Senior Students Recognized for their Achievement

Principal William Henderson recognized twelve senior students during this month’s PTA meeting for their academic achievement. They are Jorden Cobb, Darion Coleman, Jameria Cruz, Asia Davis, Jalaia Dortch-Kidd, Sheridan Gamble, Javaughn George, Jaylyn Huff, Nya Johnson, Ashley Lott, Cayenne Tate and Demetrius Turner. These students benchmarked on the ACT and are now members of the Principal’s ACT 20+ club. Congratulations to each of them.

Grandparents’ Day at Mobile Christian

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Mobile Christian celebrated Grandparents’ Day on September 21. MCS students K3-5th grade had the opportunity to invite their grandparents to attend the Grandparents' Day program. On this day, the students and their grandparents also attended the Scholastic Book Fair, toured classrooms and viewed art projects the students had been working on. It was a fun day for everyone!

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St. Dominic Commissions New Student Council

St. Dominic recently commissioned the St. Dominic Student Council. These students were elected by their peers to work closely with administration and to be the students’ voice for the school. They pledged to serve their students with pride and dedication and to bring honor to the school. They promised to be examples in their behavior, conduct and Christian values. Congratulations to: (l – r) Joe Barnett, Classroom Representative; Holli Trinh, Classroom Representative; Stephen Heim, Classroom Representative; Payton McClarren, Classroom Representative; Kenlie Diegan, Classroom Representative; Jasmine Irvin, Vice President; Anna Parker Reid, Classroom Representative; Lilli Midgette, Classroom Representative; Anthony Hantouche, Secretary; Russell Ginn, Prayer Leader/Parliamentarian; Grace George, Treasurer; Russell Foster, President; and Isabella Hansen Classroom Representative.

Little Flower Faculty Work Day

When students leave school at the end of their day, teachers are often hard at work for an hour or two, meeting and planning for the coming days on campus. Little Flower Catholic School faculty puts in the extra hours to ensure student achievement in the classroom. Faculty members proudly sported their new Viking logo tee shirts before a recent faculty meeting. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

E.R. Dickson Recognizes Staff

Congratulations to E.R. Dickson’s Staff Member of the month for October – Ms. Tedra Bettis, Instructional Paraprofessional! Congratulations to E.R. Dickson’s Teacher of the Month for October – Ms. Alison Stacey, Fourth Grade Teacher! www.mobilebayparents.com

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MGM JROTC Member Selected for MCPSS JROTC Brigade

Congratulations to Melanie Yell for being selected as one of two cadets to serve as Deputy Commander of the MCPSS JROTC Brigade. Each year, JROTC cadets from MCPSS high schools compete for a position in the district’s brigade. Candidates must serve as battalion commander or battalion commander sergeant major in their school’s JROTC program to be considered for one of only four positions – brigade commander, deputy commander (2 positions), and brigade commander sergeant major. Each candidate must then go before a board. Melanie, along with the other MCPSS JROTC Brigade members, will represent MCPSS by attending multiple events throughout the year.

St. Luke’s Robotics Team to Advance to Regional Competition

St. Luke’s BEST Robotics recently competed in the Current Events Competition hosted by Jubilee BEST at the USA Mitchell Center. Awards earned were: 1st BEST Heart for our positive attitude; 2nd BEST Marketing and Presentation; 3rd BEST Spirit and Sportsmanship; 3rd BEST Exhibit Booth and Interviews; 3rd BEST Overall Robot. For five (5) years in a row, the SLES Robotics team advances to Auburn for Regional competition scheduled for December 1-2, 2018.

St. Pius X Always True Blue

St. Pius X had their annual True Blue Day on Monday, September 10. This event, which was begun several years ago, is designed to show our support and appreciation for local law enforcement personnel. Although the school decks out in blue for the event, the focus of the day is the True Blue Luncheon and activities. This year over 50 sheriff and police offers dropped by St. Pius for a grilled lunch and other activities with our students and faculty. The lunch gives students the opportunity to meet and interact with officers firsthand, express their appreciation and develop a deeper respect for them.

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Autauga County Schools

Shipbuilding Company Creates School Welding Lab

Students at Bryant High School in Irvington now have access to the most updated welding equipment to prepare them for jobs in the local shipbuilding industry, thanks to a partnership with Ingalls Shipbuilding. Ingalls contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to create Bryant’s new Talent Development Lab, which features 21 welding stations, safety equipment and training modules. Students will train on the equipment as they work to earn nationally recognized industry certification. “We say that at Ingalls we build the finest ships the world has ever known. And you know, that’s true,” Ingalls Shipbuilding President Brian Cuccias said during a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony. “Starting today,” he added, “Alma Bryant will build the finest shipbuilders the world has ever known.” Bryant has hosted a welding program for several years, and will now be able to improve its instruction with the more modern equipment. Eighty-six students are currently enrolled in welding classes at Bryant. Students may take up to four semesters worth of welding courses while at Bryant. Some of the more advanced students are eligible to take a fifth class as their senior project.

Dr. Maryann Kyle Visits CHCA

Cottage Hill Christian Academy choir students were honored to have Dr. Maryann Kyle, Chief of Graduate Programs at the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile, share her expertise during Mrs. Sanders’ HS Choir class. Dr. Kyle was accompanied by UM Advertising Rep and CHCA Class of 2012 alumna, Kirsten Sayers Phillips who invited students to visit UM. Dr. Kyle gave a mini voice lesson encouraging students to use their voice strengths as she gave techniques for growing their talents. We would like to thank UM @umobilenews for partnering with CHCA. #WarriorWay #BeKnown

AP Scholars Total 93 at Davidson

For the 2017-2018 school year, Davidson had 93 students (grades 10-12) that held the distinction of AP Scholar. The AP Scholar Awards recognize high school students who have demonstrated exemplary college-level achievement on AP Exams. Pictured are 50 of the scholars (in no particular order): Trisha Agrawal, Johan Arcenal, Anna Atchison, Destiny Baugh, Matthew Bearse, Julianne Berte, TuAnh Cao, Nicholas Chatel, Tre’Von Conner, Austin Dickinson, Casey Dinkel, Gabriel DiQuattro, Blake Dolbare, Marie-Claire DonJayawardena, Payton Emmertson, Giorgio Esposito, Youri Ferraro, Donovon Henry, Caroline Herndon, Sarah Holland, Seth Huddleston, Grace Hunter, Parker Inman, Birdon Kelson, Lillian Kennedy, Britney Mack, Rachel Majumder, Cordelia Martin, Emily Martin, Morgan Mcgehee, Christopher Montano, Joseph Montano, Maria Moxey, Daniel Myrick, Delphine Niyonizeye, Samantha Oyler, Mikayla Persyn, Riley Pope, Olivia Presnall, Victoria Purdy, Carte Richardson, Tyler Tannehill, Callie Thompson, Michael Turner, Devin Welch, Alexander Wichmann, Cameron Wilson, Stephen Wood, Wendy Yang, and Wengel Yohannes.

St. Mary Alumni Visit Alma During McT Homecoming Week

St. Mary Catholic School Alumni, now students at McGill-Toolen Catholic, visited their alma mater just across the street during McGill-Toolen's Homecoming Week. This annual tradition of placing yellow jacket stickers on all students from PreK3 to 8th grade is a greatly appreciated and anticipated event at St. Mary! Pictured left to right are alumni visiting with a few of their elementary school teachers during the event: St. Mary Librarian, Sue Lyon; Meghan Stein; Corinne Stein; McGill-Toolen SGA/Senior Class President, Cecelia Florey; Millie Martorana; Maggie Dolan; McGill-Toolen Drum Major, Caroline Elliot; and St. Mary Middle School Teacher, Kyndel Eden. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

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Covenant Christian Cornhole Winners

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Congratulations to Cam and Lane for winning the grand prize at Covenant Christian School’s 1st annual Fundraiser Kick-Off Cornhole Tournament! The event was such a success with 11 teams that played hard and enjoyed some friendly competition. A special thanks to Briquettes Steakhouse, LoDa Bier Garten, Yellowhammer Coffee, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Texas Roadhouse, and Chick-fil-A for donating our prizes!

Eight St. Ignatius Students Qualify for Duke T.I.P. Program

St. Ignatius had eight 7th grade students who qualified for the Duke T.I.P. program. These amazing students are wonderful examples of the academic program at St. Ignatius. Pictured left to right: Gavin Bender, Michael Crocker, James Mayhall, Will Green, Clarie Taylor, Julie Galla, Lilly Kidder and Eighmey Stewart.

St. Dominic Announces Duke T.I.P. Scholars

Congratulations to St. Dominic Catholic School Grade 7 students who were named Duke Tip Scholars. This honor is achieved by scoring in the 95th percentile or higher in at least one category of the Iowa Standardized Test. These students will be invited to take either the ACT or SAT. Pictured are: (front row, l- r) Ethan Becnel, Joseph Ryan, Maggie Kohnen, Kasey Eccles, Camryn Cate, (second row, l – r) Russell Ginn, Bryan Roza, (third row l – r) Jack Peterson, Henry Jarreau, Christopher Hunt, Annabelle Hosemann, Kate Mayeux, Megan Trinh, (back row, l – r) Christopher Harrison, Anthony Hantouche, Isabella Hansen, and Ella Wilson.

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Little Flower Supports Local Seminarians

A hot summer afternoon begs for a cool treat. Little Flower Catholic School offered a great way to cool off and help fund diocesan seminarian education with “Sno-cones for Seminarians”. The SGA, under the leadership of Ms. Elisabeth Harbaugh, helped plan and organize the event. Eighth graders Victoria Tourné, Jordan Reiser, and Mia Uribe were some of the first ones through the line to get their icy confections.

Autauga County Schools

Mobile Students Earn AP Scholar Recognition

Mobile County Public Schools had 255 students earn Advanced Placement (AP) scholar recognition during the 2017-18 school year, the most ever in the system. A total of 1,632 MCPSS students took a total of 2,755 AP exams in 2017-18. “Not only did we increase the number of students taking AP exams and the number of exams given, we also increased the percentage of students earning qualifying scores on those exams,” said MCPSS Science Supervisor Stephanie LeGrone. “That is definitely an indication of the hard work and preparation of our students and teachers. This increase in the number of AP Scholars is showing our students in MCPSS can go head to head with other Advanced Placement students throughout the nation.” The College Board’s AP program allows academically prepared students to take rigorous college-level courses. They can receive college credit from most institutions for these courses if they earn a score of 3 or higher on an AP exam, which are graded on a 1-to-5 scale. AP Scholar status is granted to students who earn scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams in a given school year. Two of those students qualified as AP National Scholars – then-seniors Madelyn Watkins and Zane Madison of Baker (pictured). This recognition is granted to students who receive an average score of at least 4 on all AP exams taken and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams. Baker had 120 students earn AP scholar recognition, the most in the county and most ever for the school, while Davidson had 93. Baker is one of six schools in the state designated as an AP Capstone schools, which allows it to offer several AP courses that aren’t available elsewhere. Last year, 225 MCPSS students earned AP scholar recognition, which was then a record for the system.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.

In celebration of the Christmas season, walk with us through the story of Jesus’ birth in a Live Nativity. This will be a unique way to experience the Christmas story for everyone of all ages! The Live Nativity will be located inside Christ United to keep you warm and dry.

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Faith Students Clean Up the Coast

Griggs Celebrates Red Ribbon Week!

These 45 students from Faith Academy Faith Club gave up their Saturday to participate in coastal Clean Up 2018. On one of the hottest days of 2018, they walked the beaches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach picking up trash. We were made to serve! #CoastalCleanUp #FAFaithClub.

Congratulations to Riley Courtney! Riley will represent Griggs as our Red Ribbon Leader and has organized all the schoolwide activities for Red Ribbon week, which runs October 22-26.

Burns Middle School Red Ribbon Rep Dr. Jason Laffitte announces that Grayson Morgan is the Red Ribbon Week representative for Burns Middle School for the 2018-2019 school term. Congratulations Grayson!

Prichard Prep Welcomes Blind Artist Ricky Trione

Ricky Trione, blind artist and Fairhope native, was on campus to share his testimony about faith and perseverance. The students finger painted a picture of a fish while he shared his story and then he showed them how he paints. He is truly an inspirational speaker.

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MGM Homecoming

This year, MGM celebrated homecoming with their theme of “Blast from the Past.” Each day, students and teachers accessorized with items representing the fashion trends of the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80, 90s, and 2000s. The celebration continued with the homecoming parade and “Rally in the Yard” pep rally where Seth Flowers was crowned homecoming king by Luke Guy, 2017 homecoming king. In addition to MGM students, PTO, faculty, staff, and parents, previous Azalea Trail Maids and the Class of 1968 joined in the parade. During halftime at Friday night’s homecoming game, Alexia Horne was crowned homecoming queen by Macy Lewis, 2017 homecoming queen. Macy also gave Alexia a special necklace she has worn for the past year in honor of Aubreigh Nicholas with whom she shared her crown sparking the beginning an MGM homecoming tradition to celebrate Aubreigh’s zest for life. The homecoming festivities celebrated the past while creating memories and traditions to carry into the future.

Autauga County Schools

CHCA Goes Gold for Childhood Cancer

The Cottage Hill Christian Academy varsity cheerleaders teamed up with Varsity Spirit to support St. Jude and the fight to end childhood cancer. Students and families were asked to wear gold to support our teams and the brave families who are fighting this disease. With the help of the CHCA cheerleaders, students, and those who donated at the game, over $600 was raised for St. Jude Research.

St. Dominic Student Leaders

St. Dominic Catholic School Grade 8 students pledged to be leaders of our school, to be responsible and to set good examples. Recently they took this to heart when they partnered with our Grade 1 students. Here Jasmine Irvin and Nadia Moore work together on a fall craft, and spend time getting to know each other.

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UMS-Wright Preparatory School Celebrates 125 years!

Tuesday, October 2 marked 125 years since Dr. Wright opened the doors of University Military School and began the history of UMS, GPS, JTW and UMS-Wright. The entire school celebrated with a huge birthday party. The student body dressed through the generations (one K5 student dressed as Dr. Wright!), our alumni gathered together to toast to UMS-Wright, and we ended the night honoring our Alumni of the Year, Molly Crown Nordmann ’76 and Robert Hope ’79. For 125 years, UMS-Wright has been the clear path for potential, and this is just the beginning!

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St. Pius Students Try Out New Science Lab

St. Pius X fifth grade students had their introduction to the St. Pius X Middle School Science Lab earlier this school year. Under the direction of middle school science teacher, Mr. Mike McElroy, students conducted an experiment, applying the scientific method to determine which of several materials made the best filters. Pictured here are students using paper towels to determine their filtering abilities. Other materials tested included toilet paper, brown industrial paper towels, tissue paper, coffee filters, cotton t-shirt material and Kleenex. Come visit our science lab and see it firsthand at our Open House Friday, November 9.

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What Teens Really Think About Their Social Media Lives

Managing devices is hit or miss. Many turn off, silence, or put away their phones at key times such as when going to sleep, having meals with people, visiting family, or doing homework. But many others do not: A significant number of teens say they “hardly ever” or “never” silence or put away their devices. • What you can do. If your teen is the kind who can manage their own use, keep encouraging them. If not, set specific screen rules for around the house. Establish screen-free times (such as during homework) and areas (such as the bedroom). Have devicefree-dinner nights -- and make sure to follow the rules yourself.

What teenagers look like they’re doing and what they’re actually doing can be two totally different things -- especially when it comes to social media. A bored-looking ninth-grader could be majorly bonding with her new BFF on Snapchat. A 10th-grade gamer may complain loudly when you cut off his internet, but be secretly relieved. An awkward eighth-grader may be YouTube’s hottest star. To find out what’s really going on in teens’ social media lives, we polled more than 1,100 13- to 17-year-olds. The new study updates our 2012 study on teens and social media with surprising new findings that address many of parents’ most pressing concerns about issues such as cyberbullying, depression, and even the popularity of Facebook (spoiler alert: It’s not). Why now? Today, 89 percent of teens have their own smartphones (compared with 41 percent in 2012). They grew up right alongside Instagram and Snapchat. They do research papers on Google Classroom, find emotional support on teen forums, share poetry on Tumblr, and are more likely to text “I love you” before they’d ever say it to your face. But concerns over the negative consequences of social media have grown in tandem with its popularity among teens. Grim reports on teen suicide, addiction, cyberbullying, and eroding social skills have caused many people, from parents to teachers to the tech industry itself, to look at social media as a potential contributor -- if not the cause -- of these issues. This survey clarifies some of those concerns and draws attention to the reasons some kids are deeply affected by -- and connected to -- their digital worlds. Here are some of the key findings from the report, what they mean for you and your teen, and what you can do.

Snapchat and Instagram are where it’s at. In 2012 Facebook utterly dominated social networking use among teens. Today, only 15 percent say it’s their main site. • What you can do. Familiarize yourself with your teen’s favorite social media by reading reviews or downloading it yourself and playing around with it. Friend your teen and make time for regular check-ins when you can ask what’s new on Snapchat and Insta and share your feeds with them. Less talking, more texting. In 2012, about half of all teens still said their favorite way to communicate with friends was in person; today less than a third say so. But more than half of all teens say that social media takes them away from personal relationships and distracts them from paying attention to the people they’re with. • What you can do. This is where your guidance and rolemodeling of healthy online habits is really important. Put down your own phone (better yet, set it to Do Not Disturb) when you’re with your kids. Encourage them to be more self-aware about their device use, especially when they come away from interactions feeling like they were distracted. And if you think they need a break, prompt them to go phone-free for a while. Exposure to hate speech in on the rise, while cyberbullying is less common. Only 13 percent of teens report ever being cyberbullied. But nearly two-thirds say they often or sometimes come across racist, sexist, homophobic, or religious-based hate content in social media. • What you can do. Talk to your kid about being a force for good on the internet. Explain that it reflects poorly on them if they like, share, or otherwise support messages of hate -- even as a joke. If your kid knows the person spewing hate speech, then encourage them to block, report, or simply unfriend that person. Practice how to disagree with people respectfully and constructively. Encourage them to stand up for people who’ve been denigrated -- without getting into an ugly flame war.

They can’t stop. They won’t stop. Seventy percent of teens use social media more than once a day (compared to 34 percent in 2012). Interestingly, most teens think technology companies manipulate users to spend more time on their devices. Many of them also think that social media distracts them and and their friends. • What you can do. They know it’s getting in the way of important things, but they have a hard time regulating their own use. So, help them! Encourage them to be mindful of how they feel before, during, and after a social media session. If a certain friend or topic bugs them or brings them down, they can block that person or mute the thread. Challenge them to do a task with focused concentration and without getting distracted for longer and longer periods. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

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Planning and Success Q. I’m stuck in a dead-end job, and I only have a high school diploma. I’ve never minded long hours and hard work, but I’ve begun to realize I need to have a better career, so I can spend more time with my kids. I feel like I’m missing out on their lives, because I work 65 to 70 hours every week. Any advice? A. Asking questions and exploring your

options like this is a much smarter move than simply walking away from an unsatisfying job situation — especially when you have a family to think about. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to improve yourself in terms of education or your career. But before you do any of that, you’ve got to have a definite direction in mind. You need an in-depth, detailed game plan for the next three or four years that’s designed to put you where you want to be. It may involve going back to

school for some classes, additional training in your field, or even getting a full-blown degree. If you identify your long-term goals in detail, it will lead you to some of the shortterm goals that will help you arrive at your final destination. Have you tried talking to your boss about your goals and your situation? See if you can have a sincere conversation with him or her, and discuss your feelings about your career and what’s going on with your family, too. Your company may be very receptive to the idea of increasing your value in the workplace. A good leader will also understand the importance of family. Also, there’s a great book by Dan Miller that addresses this topic. It’s called 48 Days to the Work You Love. In this book, he lays out the steps to discovering what you really love to do and how to get there.

Forgive the debt? Q. Recently, I loaned some money to a good friend. He’s going to help me with a big

home project over the next few weekends, so do you think I should pay him for the work or forgive the debt instead?

A. First, I don’t recommend loaning money to friends or family. Once in a while, things may work out and everyone ends up happy. But in most cases, it changes the dynamic of the relationship. The big question is whether you’ve already agreed to pay him for the work. Another consideration is how he views the situation. He may be looking at this as just helping a buddy, and he still owes the money. Ask him what his expectations are before you guys start the job. Just talk to him, and figure out what seems fair to you both. If you’ve already agreed on a certain amount, and the value of the work is close to what you loaned him, you might discuss the idea of paying back the debt that way. But in the future, if someone close to you really needs financial help — and you’re not enabling bad behavior in the process — just make the money a gift.

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As Thanksgiving approaches it is nice to reflect on and appreciate our blessings. In our family, each member writes down something they are thankful for on Thanksgiving Day and we read them aloud at Thanksgiving dinner. This is a fun exercise that teaches our children to show gratitude for things otherwise taken for granted. We enjoy that daily pause to remember what we are grateful for; but, what about every other day of the year? How do we teach our kids to be grateful all year long? Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

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Model gratefulness

The easiest and most effective way to start teaching your children gratitude is to model it yourself. Let your children hear you talk about the things you are thankful for. “I am so grateful for this beautiful day today so that we can go to the park,” or “I am so thankful for a great job to pay for our home and our food.” You can also do as we have on Thanksgiving Day and go around the table at dinner and name something you are thankful for any night of the year. When kids acknowledge the blessings they have in their lives, they will begin to take note and appreciate them.

Serve as a family

Families who do service projects together tend to be families who appreciate what they have more. When children see that some are less fortunate, they will develop a desire to help others and make a difference. Not only do they become more aware of others and the blessings in their own lives, but they are more likely to give of their time and treasures for a lifetime.

Teach them to say thank you

From a young age, teach children to say thank you. Encourage kids to say thank you for any acts of service or gifts. Even toddlers can be taught to sign “Thank you”. Writing thank you notes is

a great way to provide kids the opportunity to thank someone for the gifts they receive and the time it took to purchase them. Encourage a “It’s the thought that counts” policy and explain that it isn’t the actual gift itself but the thought behind the purchase that we are grateful for.

Take care of property

Teach kids the value of their property by showing them the importance of caring for their belongings. Clothes cost money so they should not be on the floor in piles. Toys cost money so if one is broken due to misuse, do not rush to replace it.

Say no

It isn’t healthy to say yes to every request your child has. An answer of “no” or “not right now” teaches children both the value of delayed gratification and encourages gratefulness for occasional treats. If a child is allowed to purchase a toy every time he visits the store, this will become expected. If the toy is purchased as a special reward or with their own money, the child will appreciate it much more.

Teach them the cost of things

Parents know everything costs money and it adds up fast. Allow your child to come along to the grocery store and have them help you find the best deal on food

they would like to purchase, or allow them to bring their own allowance and purchase something they would like. Point out how much it costs when you go out to eat as a family or make a large purchase of groceries or other items the family needs. Take care to avoid blaming or anger when discussing the cost of items and use the opportunity to teach. When children understand the true cost of items, they are more likely to appreciate the purchase in the first place.

Give them chores

When children have chores and responsibilities to their family, they begin to understand how much work goes into cleaning, yard work, or other household tasks. Some families may choose to give an allowance for tasks completed which can help kids learn to budget and understand the value of hard work, and in turn, develop gratitude for the work that others do. The main thing to remember as you encourage gratefulness in children is to model the behavior. Thank them for their hard work, acknowledge and thank others for their acts of service, help kids understand the value of items, and give them responsibilities that teach them hard work. We don’t have to eat turkey every day to be thankful for the blessings that surround us all year. MBP Sarah Lyons is a wife and stay at home mom of six children, including two year old triplets. She writes from her home in Kansas City.

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

10 Steps Towards Maturing Teen Boys Fifteen is the age when a boy moves into manhood while still holding on to the boyish ways of childhood. It is a time when parents need to be extra vigilant to help him make it through the transition smoothly, and therefore not get stuck at this stage for several years. Age 15 is when the your son’s thoughts and his expectations crash like ocean waves amidst a sea of change. It’s the end of one tide and the beginning of another. At the very least, it’s an awkward season. Increased hormones, growth spurts, voice changes, muscles, and moving from concrete to abstract thinking all tend to make a young man feel a jumble of both invincibility and vulnerability. And as a first step toward making up his own mind about life, everything you’ve taught him will be questioned. This is a “convenient” time for a mom and dad to detach and drift alongside their teen as he is busier with extra-curricular activities at school and spends more time away from home. But this is no time for parents to back off. It is a critical and pivotal point of time where a parent can steer a son away from childish thinking and move him toward more mature thinking. Your son needs to learn from you how to be respectful during a conflict, to be honest in the face of confusion, and to remain obedient in times of disagreement. It’s a time for some serious character-building. Sailing these waters can be a tough time for parents… but more than ever it is the right time to be available and to be firm. So how do you go about making a smooth transition? First, determine the “state of your child.” If things are already getting strained in your relationship, move toward them out of compassion, not frustration. Approach the harshest situations with humility, but carry a big stick. I don’t mean a big stick in relation to punishment, but I’m referring to your Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

authority as a parent to set the agenda and to say “No” when you need to. Parents today strive to be a friend of their children more than a parent. But as most soon find out at about age 15 when conflict erupts, they’ll wish that they had more of a “parent role” than a “friend role.” I’m here to tell you from years of experience that it is never too late to jump into the parental role, and trust me; there will never be a better time for boys than at age 15. If you’re seeing behavioral problems, it is important for your son to know that you will stop at nothing to change the inappropriate direction he is headed. If you don’t know what to do, find help from others who have been there. Or, contact our on-call coaches for more help. Just call our Family Crisis Helpline at 866-700-3264 or visit www.heartlightministries. org/crisiscoaching for more information about that service. A parent will do well to start with the following list to-do’s beginning on your son’s 15th birthday: 1. Ask your son to begin making more of his own decisions. “Where should we go to eat tonight? What would be good for us to do on our vacation? What movie should we get this Friday? What charities do you think would be good to support?” 2. Ask for his input or point of view. How would you respond in this situation? How would you discipline differently? What you do think about what’s happening at school? 3. Give him an opportunity to respond correctly. He may not respond to your giving him more responsibility appropriately at first. So give him another opportunity to get it right. Display empathy rather than judgment. The way you go about it is sometimes more important than the message itself. Remember, a gentle answer turns away wrath. How you respond to him will determine how he will respond to you. 4. Set clear boundaries. In times of trouble, don’t move away from your child, 36

move toward him. Immaturity demands that you place boundaries around his inappropriate behavior. You may be thinking, “Well, you don’t know my kid and how he mistreats me.” I admit, I don’t. However, I do know that if you do nothing to rein in the bad behavior you see in your 15-year-old son, it’s only going to get worse, not better. 5. Help your son learn how to say “No” by honoring it when he says “No.” This is another boundary issue. Honoring his boundaries will help him learn to honor others’ boundaries. 6. Admit when you are wrong. Admitting when you are wrong will help your son understand that everyone makes mistakes, and models how to behave when mistakes happen. 7. Shift control before you think he is ready for it. Yes, he will blow it, but he will also learn some valuable lessons from doing so, but only when you… (see number 8). 8. Force him to take responsibility for his decisions. Don’t say, “I told you so,” or, “I should have made that decision instead.” Allow him to figure out what he should have done instead, and force him to own up to the consequences of his choices. 9. Encourage him in his good decisions. Point your comments toward his successes, not his failures. 10. When your son responds with maturity and responsibility, then move him up to the next level. Expand the limit and expectations and expect him to meet new requirements. For instance: “Honey, I think it’s great that you have a job now. If you are willing to save your money, I will match it and help you buy your first car.” I encourage you to take advantage of this time to help your son make a strong transition to the smoother waters of responsible adulthood. Thankfully, he won’t be 15 forever. 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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Saturday, November 3rd DOWNTOWN MOBILE

Events for everyone: 10K, 5K, and 1-MILE Fun Run Family Fun Festival in Bienville Square: free food, music, & activities Long-sleeve race t-shirt with entry fee

HELP AREA YOUTH! MORE THAN $4.5 MILLION RAISED

REGISTER TODAY! Reese’s Senior Bowl Headquarters (51 Dauphin St.) • McCoy Outdoors Run-n-Tri • Fleet Feet • Running Wild in Fairhope or at seniorbowl.com 37

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Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends to gather â&#x20AC;&#x201C; up until dinner is over, that is. When their bellies are full, the men retire to watch football, the kids scatter to empty rooms and the women are often left with kitchen duty. Avoid the after dinner segregation and keep them together with these Thanksgiving games and activities. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

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Leaf Blower: Split the group into two teams. Each team needs to blow a leaf from Point A to Point B using a straw in a relay race style. The next player will blow it back from Point B to Point A until everyone has had a turn. First team to finish wins.

I Was So Hungry:

This memory game is a fun way to get the party laughing. The players sit at the table or in a circle. The first player starts, “I was so hungry that I ate a juicy drumstick for Thanksgiving.” The next person adds something like, “I was so hungry that I ate a juicy drumstick and a mound of mash potatoes for Thanksgiving.” Keep repeating and adding until the whole party is stuffed.

Stuffed Turkey: Wrap a piece of candy in brown box tape. Continue to wrap the tape in a ball, adding additional pieces of candy as you go. The size of the ball will depend on how many players and how much candy you have.

(This is a great way to use up the rest of your Halloween candy.) To play, place the ball in the center of the table. Using a pair of dice, each player takes a turn rolling for doubles. If you get doubles, you can start unwrapping the ball to get candy for as long as it takes the next player to get doubles. The ball is then passed to that player and so on until the ball is completely unwrapped.

construction paper or foam sheets. Don’t forget your camera!

Pass the Cranberries: Using a turkey baster, pick up a cranberry and bring it to a bowl on the other side of the room. The first team to pass all their cranberries from one bowl to the other is the winner.

Fill Your Plate: This is a two part Toss & Tell: All players sit in a circle. game. Use free printables of ThanksgivStart by tossing a small turkey stuffed animal or small football to a player and ask a question like, “Who do you think will make it to the Super Bowl this year?” or “What is your favorite memory from elementary school?” This multigenerational game will be a hit!

Dress the Turkey:

Select a volunteer from the family to be the turkey. Using brown crepe paper streamers, wrap up the turkey until he is covered. Decorate the turkey with a yellow beak, feet and colorful feathers made from

ing meal items – drumstick, cranberries, potatoes, stuffing, corn and pie. Have the kids color and cut out their dinner items. When everything is colored, pass out a paper plate to each player. The game is a spin off of the Cootie game, but instead of building a bug, we are filling our plate. Assign each meal item with a number and each time a player rolls the die, he gets to put that item on his plate. Whoever fills their plate first is the winner. MBP Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. It wouldn’t be Thanksgiving at her house without games! Follow her on Etsy at Pam’s Party Printables for more party and game ideas.

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Christmas Night of Lights

himself and make some fun crafts! We will have two seatings on Saturday, one at 9am and one at 11am.

November 9, 2018 - January 1, 2019 @ Hank Aaron Stadium 755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard Mobile, AL 36606 Come enjoy one of the most amazing drive-thru Christmas light shows you will ever experience. Over 1 million LED lights, driven by over 10,000 computer channels, synchronized to both traditional and new rocking Christmas music playing through your car radio. Pack your vehicle full of friends and family to enjoy the show as you begin a new Christmas tradition. Time: 5:20pm-9:00pm. Cost: $6.00 per person, children 3 and under are free.

(251) 471-3348 www.juniorleaguemobile.org

ad on page 45

www.christmasnightsoflights.com

Cirque Dreams Holidaze ad on page 5

November 23, 2018 @ Mobile Civic Center 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL 36602 The nation’s iconic holiday stage spectacular illuminates the Mobile Civic Center Theatre. Two shows: 2:00pm, 7:30pm. (800) 745-3000 www.mobilecivicctr.com

Wales West Arctic Express ad on page 46

Junior League of Mobile’s Christmas Jubilee ad on page 17

November 15 - 17, 2018 @ Mobile Convention Center 1 South Water Street Mobile, AL 36602 Kick off your holiday shopping and get in the spirit at Junior League of Mobile’s annual Christmas Jubilee. The Gulf Coast’s greatest holiday market features more than 100 merchants from around the country under one roof for three exciting days of shopping. Christmas Jubilee will kick off the holiday shopping season with a broad selection of gifts for all ages, interests and budgets. There are also numerous special events sponsored by the Junior League including a Peek and Purchase on Wednesday, November 14, VIP Shopping on Thursday, November 15, Girls’ Night Out on Friday, November 16 and Santa’s Breakfast on Saturday, November 17. Regular shopping hours are Thursday, November 11 – 11:00am-8:00pm, Friday, November 16 - 9:00am-9:00pm and Saturday, November 17 - 9:00am -5:00pm. General Admission Tickets valid for one day are $10 in advance, $12 at the door, $8 for Student, Senior Citizen and Military and $5 for Children (ages 6-12) 5 and under are Free. Please visit www.juniorleaguemobile.org. (251) 471-3348 www.juniorleaguemobile.org

Santa’s Breakfast ad on page 17

November 17, 2018 1 South Water Street Mobile, AL 36602 Bring your children to have breakfast with Santa Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

November 23 - December 24, 2018 @ Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL 36576 All aboard the Arctic Express at Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway. Great holiday fun for the whole family! Ride an authentic Steam Train through a wonderland of lights, snow, and decorations to the North Pole. Children visit with Santa in the Winter-wonderland barn and receive a free wooden toy. Our staff can take your family photo with Santa. Free Refreshments, Mini-Train Ride, Hay Ride, Playground, and Bounce House. In addition, Petting Zoo, Pony Ride, and Snowball Cannon are available for a slight fee. Try our Cafe’s new menu options, and a Gift Shop full of train items ideal for Christmas presents! Hours: WEEKENDS: Fri’s, Sat’s, and Sun’s, 4:00pm-9:00pm; Beginning Dec. 12, open NIGHTLY, 4:00pm - 9:00pm. Admission is $15/person, plus tax. 2 and under are free. Group rates, field trips, and parties can be booked in advance. (888) 569-5337 www.waleswest.com

Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens and Home ad on page 7

November 23, 2018 - December 31, 2018 @ Bellingrath Gardens and Home 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL 36582 It’s one of the nation’s best holiday light shows, and it’s right here in south Alabama! Bellingrath Gardens and Home presents the 23rd season of Magic Christmas in Lights in 2018.The dazzling nighttime display features more than 1,100 set pieces, 3

million lights and 15 scenes, set out in a walking tour throughout the 65-acre Garden estate. Magic Christmas in Lights is open daily from 5:00pm – 9:00pm. (251) 973-2217 www.bellingrath.org

Christmas on the Hill ad on page 14

December 2, 2018 @ Village of Springhill Mobile, AL 36608 “Christmas on the Hill” in the Village of Spring Hill is scheduled for Sunday, December 2nd from 1:00pm-5:00pm. Christmas on the Hill is an annual holiday event created and promoted by the Spring Hill Merchants Association. This year a selection of the Village of Spring Hill’s finest boutiques will once again open their doors with special store hours, holiday refreshments, Free Train Rides, sleigh rides, photos with Santa, Photo Booth and holiday music and a variety of children’s activities as well as sales and special merchandise promotions. shmerchants@gmail.com www.facebook.com/springhillmerchantsassociation

Live Nativity at Christ United ad on page 28

December 5, 2018 @ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Join us in the Christ Center as we celebrate the Christmas season by traveling through the story of Jesus’s birth. This will be a unique experience for every one of all ages! This is free and all are invited! (251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com

Crazy, Busy, Peaceful Holy Night Christmas Concert ad on page 28

December 9, 2018 @ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Join the Children’s and Pre-school choirs and follow along as a family gets caught up with the craziness of preparing for Christmas and almost missing the peace of Christ in the midst of Christmas craziness. This musical is certain to bring excitement and fun for all this Christmas! This is free and all are invited! Time: 6:00pm in the Sanctuary (251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com

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Preschool Fun Day Cookie Decorating ad on page 28

December 5, 2018 @ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Come and kick off the Christmas season with a cookie decorating party. We will have all of the cookies and decorating supplies, just bring your imagination. Register at christunitedkids.com/register. Time: 11:00am in Fellowship Hall. (251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com

Behold, A Savior Christmas Concert ad on page 28

December 14, 2018 @ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Join us as our Sanctuary Choir, Youth Singers and orchestra skillfully weave scripture and dramatic first-hand accounts of the birth of Jesus into beloved carols and original songs during this Christmas musical. Time: 7:00pm in Sanctuary. (251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com

Mobile Ballet presents “The Nutcracker” ad on page 23

December 15-16, 2018 @ Mobile Civic Center Theatre 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL 36602 December brings the lavish holiday tradition of The Nutcracker – this time pairing Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece with fresh choreography from Artistic Director Katia Garza. The Corps de Ballet will feature world renowned Guest Artists including Eduardo Pi

Iglesias along with Ballet Master Israel Rodriguez. For the first time, performers will also include dancers from the entire community – with open auditions for traditional favorites including angels, fairies and more. This is a favorite for all ages. Performances: Saturday, December 15 at 2:30 and 7:30pm and Sunday, December 16 at 2:30pm. (251) 342-2241 www.mobileballet.org

Christmas Eve Family Communion Services ad on page 24

December 24, 2018 @ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 A child-friendly service with puppets and an interactive telling of the Christmas story. (251) 342-0462 www.christumcmobile.com

Christmas Eve Modern Communion Service ad on page 24

December 24, 2018 @ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Come and experience live strings, an incredible band, and a meaningful teaching that you don’t want to miss. Time: 7:30pm and Christ Center Gym. (251) 342-0462 www.christumcmobile.com

Christmas Eve Traditional Communion Service ad on page 24

December 24, 2018 @ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Join us for music, scripture readings, a Christmas message, Holy Communion and candlelight carols

as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Time: 6:00pm & 11:00pm at the Sanctuary. (251) 342-0462 www.christumcmobile.com

Christmas in the Bayou Shopping Spectacular

November 3, 2018 @ Bayou La Batre Community Center 12745 Padgett Switch Road Irvington, AL 36544 The “Christmas on the Bayou” Shopping Spectacular will offer a large variety of vendors to shop with, delicious food, a silent auction and even pictures with Santa! Time: 4pm-9pm. Adults-$3.00, Children-$2.00 (4-12) and Children 3 & under Free.

Pickles and Popcorn Presents: Holiday Shopping Bash

November 3, 2018 @ Semmes Community Center 10141 Moffett Road Semmes, AL 36575 We are excited to announce our 1st annual Holiday Shopping Bash!!! We will have a little bit of everything, so something for everyone. Stop out and enjoy this free event and knock out some holiday shopping!

Toys for Tots Motorcycle Ride

November 3, 2018 @ USS Battleship Memorial Pkwy 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL 36602 Toys For Tots will kick-off their holiday campaign at Battleship Memorial Park with the popular Motorcycle Ride. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. and kickstands up at 11:00 a.m. Bring a new, unwraped toy for the toy drive.

12th Annual Merry Mart

November 4, 2018 @ Our Savior Catholic Church 1801 Cody Road South Mobile, AL 36695 The 12th Annual Merry Mart at Our Savior Catholic

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Church from 12:00pm-4:00pm. Visitors can enjoy holiday shopping, lunch and fun under one roof-finding the perfect gift for everyone on their list. Children can shop The Santa Shop. Delicious lunch will be available for purchase. (251) 633-6762 www.oursaviorparish.org

United Cerebral Palsy’s Christmas Nights of Lights 5K and Fun Run

November 8, 2018 @ Hank Aaron Stadium 755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard Mobile, AL 36606 On November 8th, United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile will host the 4th Annual Christmas Nights of Lights 5k and Fun Run at Hank Aaron Stadium. Come out for an evening of Christmas cheer and fun! Whether you run or not, this is the most amazing race route to experience! Our 5K will take off at 6:00pm for 2 laps through the magical Christmas Nights of Lights show route. The Fun Run is 1 lap through the show (just over 1 mile), beginning at 6:45pm. You’ll never experience another Christmas light show quite like this! Even Santa is planning to take part in all the excitement! lluckie@ucpmobile.org www.raceentry.com/racereviews/christmas-nights-of-lights-5k-and-fun-run

Mobile Christmas Extravaganza Gift Show

November 10, 2018 @ Abba Temple Shrine 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, AL 36695 Christmas Extravaganza, one of Mobile’s Largest Christmas Shows, is celebrating its 8th anniversary, and the public is advised that gift needs can be filled at this show--jewelry, accessories, fashions--a variety of unique seasonal and gift items, including those unusual pieces for the “person who has everything.” Time: 9:00am-2:00pm.

NGDC Christmas Shopping Spree & Showcase

November 10, 2018 @ Bayou La Batre Community Center 12745 Padgett Switch Rd Irvington, AL 36544 Join us for our 5th Annual Christmas Jubilee and Showcase. We will have food, dancing and shopping. Get some Christmas shopping done and sit back and enjoy our NGDC dancers take the stage. The cost to get in is $5.00 and your ticket will be entered into a drawing for one of our many raffle items. Time: 10:00am-4:00pm. (251) 591-9899 www.nextgenerationdancecenter.com

The Market at the Pillars

November 11, December 9, 2018 @ The Pillars 1757 Government Street Mobile, AL 36604 The Market at the Pillars is a monthly market with over 40 local vendors: crafters, farmers, makers and bakers and live music from local musicians. Free admission. Family friendly and Pet friendly. Come get your Christmas shopping done! Sunday Funday from 12:00pm-4:00pm in Midtown Mobile! (251) 307-5382 www.thepillarsofmobile.com

A Turkey for Thanksgiving Special Storytime

November 14, 2018 @ Ben May Main Library 701 Government Street Mobile, AL 36602 Headstart programs, schools and families are invited to a special Thanksgiving Turkey Storytime in Bernheim Hall. Program consists of songs, stories and a Readers Theater tailored just for ages 4 to 7. Registration is required. Time: 10:00am (251) 208-7086 crhodes@mplonline.org www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Christmas Spectacular Presented by Alabama School of the Arts at University of Mobile

November 15 - 18, 2018 @ Cottage Hill Baptist 4255 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, AL 36609 Get the Christmas season off to a festive start with the sights and sounds of Christmas Spectacular, the annual Christmas music extravaganza for the entire family presented by the Alabama School of the Arts at University of Mobile. Purchase your tickets early at itickets,com, since this popular four-night concert held at Cottage Hill Baptist Church attracts an audience of over 9,000 each year. With over 20 ensembles and featuring over 200 students from the Alabama School of the Arts’ (ASOTA) at University of Mobile, you will experience both sacred and holiday classics as well as original music and arrangements from ASOTA faculty and students. Time: 7pm on November 15, 16,17 , and 3pm on November 18. (251) 442-2383 svalentin@umobile.edu www.umobile.edu/christmas

Christmas Tree Lighting in Semmes

November 16, 2018 @ Semmes Library 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL 36575 Semmes ushers in the holiday season November 16 with our annual Christmas Tree Lighting, Gather with family, friends and neighbors for this heartwarming seasonal favorite! This event starts at 6:30pm with the tree lighting at dark with music, Santa, cookies & hot cocoa. (251) 649-8811 www.cityofsemmes.org

Jingle All the Way: A Christmas Market November 16, 2018 @ Semmes Library 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL 36575 Join us for our “Jingle All the Way: A Christ-

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The Lighting of the Trees

November 16, 2018 @ Mardi Gras Park 163 Government Street Mobile, AL 36602 The City welcomes in the holiday season with pictures with Santa, live music and much more. Shop in our merry market, enjoy live entertainment. Be sure to be there by 6pm, as we kick off the holiday season when the Mayor and Santa light up the tree at 6:10pm! www.ncsmobile.org

Port City Craftsman Holiday Show

November 16 - 18, 2018 @ Abba Shrine Temple 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, AL 36695 The Port City Craftsmen Annual Holiday show is set for November 16 - 17 from 9:00am-5:00pm and November 18 from 11:00am-4:00pm. There is no better way of kicking off your holiday shopping with many local and regional artist and crafters. The perfect way to jump start your holiday shopping. Admission is $3.00 or $2.00 and 1 can good which will be donated to Feeding the Gulf Coast, children under 13 are free. pccshowcommittee@portcitycraftsmen.com www.portcitycraftsmen.com

Photos with Santa at the Wharf

November 16 - December 24, 2018 @ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Ice Skating Rink

November 16, 2018 - January 13, 2018 @ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Holiday Bazaar - St. Mark United Methodist Church

November 17, 2018 @ St Mark United Methodist 439 Azalea Road Mobile, AL 36609 Holiday Bazaar and yard sale. Start your Holiday shopping early and enjoy a wide selection of holiday decorations, gifts, antiques & collectibles, as well as crafts and baked goods. Starts at 8:00am. (251) 342-5861 www.stmarkmobile.com

Thanksgiving Storytime & Craft

November 17, 2018 @ West Regional Branch 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Come enjoy a Thanksgiving themed storytime and make a Thanksgiving centerpiece! Registration is not required but is encouraged. Time: 2pm-3pm. (251) 340-8571 westyouth@mplonline.org www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Turkey 10-Miler, 10K & 5K Run / Walk

November 17, 2018 @ River Delta Marina 2350 Dead Lake Marina Rd # 244 Creola, AL 36525 This race benefits Creola Police and Rescue, River Delta Marina and Drug Education Council. Please bring canned or packaged non-perishable food to the race to donate to local food banks/pantries. www.pcpacers.org

Pump It Up Holiday Fun

November 19-25, 2018 @ Pump It Up 741 Hillcrest Road Mobile, AL 36695 Pump It Up will have numerous themed Open Play jumps Monday November 19th - Sunday November 25th. We will be closed Thanksgiving Day. Open Jump themes will include our Little Tikes Jump, Balloon Drop Jump, Doughnut and Juice Jump, Popsicle Jump and Glow Jump! For specific times and to reserve your space early please visit our website. (251) 342-3940 www.pumpitupparty.com/mobile-al/ calendar/

5 Rivers Story Time “Run, Turkey, Run!” November 20, 2018 @ 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, AL 36527 The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. This week’s story is about a crafty turkey. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. 10-11am, free, no registration necessary. (251) 625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/5-riversalabamas-delta-resource-center

Turkey Trot for Hope 5K & Gobble Wobble Fun Run

November 22, 2018 @ Spanish Plaza, Downtown Mobile The Turkey Trot for Hope & Gobble Wobble is more than a race, it is an experience. We invite you to

join us on November 22nd for what is quickly becoming a Mobile tradition. It is a chance to kick the day off with a little turkey day spirit, gather with your family and to burn those extra calories in preparation for the impending feast. Most importantly, it is an opportunity to give thanks by giving back to a great cause, Camp Rap-A-Hope. The 5k will start at 8:00 am and run along a certified 5k course. The Gobble Wobble fun run is less than a mile and will begin at 9:00 am.

www.raceroster.com/events/2018/16620/turkey-trotfor-hope

48th Annual Thanksgiving Day Pow Wow

November 22-23, 2018 @ Poarch Creek Indian Grounds 6477 Jack Springs Road Atmore, AL 36502 Celebrate a cultural tradition during Thanksgiving this year, with the Poarch Creek Indian Thanksgiving Pow Wow. Each Year, tribal members gather on this original Creek tribal land for the annual Poarch Creek Indian Thanksgiving Pow Wow. You and your family are invited to join the festivities and enjoy a brilliant display of authentic Native American dress and exhibition dancing by Tribes from throughout the country. Admission: $5 for 11 & up, free for 10 & under. Gates open at 10:00am each day. (251) 368-9136 www.pci-nsn.gov/westminster/index.html

Optimist Club Christmas Tree Lot

November 23 - December 15, 2018 Corner of Ann and Virginia St Mobile, AL 36604 Optimist Club Christmas Tree Lot - The proceeds from our Christmas Tree sales are donated to our local Boys & Girls Club on Michigan Ave and to student athletes throughout the year. The Tree Lot is run on a volunteer basis by members of the Optimist Club and has been for over 60 years! Boys from the Boys & Girls Club are there to help assist customers pick out the perfect tree and load it on their car. Times: Monday-Friday from 12:00pm8:00pm. Saturday-Sunday from 10:00am-7:00pm.

Fish River Christmas Tree Farm

November 23 - December 23, 2018 13982 Woodhaven Dairy Road East, Summerdale There’s something special about a family trip to pick out the perfect Christmas tree. Stroll through our 40-acre Christmas Tree Farm and evergreen nursery and view the wide selection of trees. We offer choose & cut trees, fresh cut fir and spruce

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trees, as well as displays of flocked trees (for pre-order) and container-grown, Living Trees to re-plant after the holidays. Stay on the farm in one of our 5-star rated cabins. See activity dates in this directory for Santa visits, live manger scene, camel rides, train and more! Our nursery is now open year round and the tree farm is open daily from 8am - 5pm. (251) 988-8114 www.fishrivertrees.com

A Holiday Market in the Gardens

November 30-December 1, 2018 @ Mobile Botanical Gardens 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL 36608 Get your Holiday shopping done at this fun event and buy local products with a “Tale to Tell”! In conjunction with the Mobile County Master Gardeners Greenery Sale. (251) 342-0555 mbg2@bellsouth.net www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org

Holiday Horse and Carriage Rides

TBD @ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Holiday Activities at the Farm

Weekends Only November 23 - December 23, 2018 @ Fish River Christmas Tree Farm 13982 Woodhaven Dairy Rd East Summerdale, AL 36580 Bring the family, choose a Christmas Tree and enjoy our fun Holiday activities (Fridays - Sundays Only) from 8am - 5pm. Take a free ride on The Tannebaum Express Tree Train for a farm tour, view our manger scene with live animals, Camel & Pony Rides ($5 per ride) and a Christmas Bounce House ($2 per child). Santa will also visit the Farm Novem-

ber 23-25, December 1-2 and December 8-9 only. (251) 988-8114 fishrivertrees@gulftel.com www.fishrivertrees.com

Christmas Tree Lighting at the Wharf November 27 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

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

Trees for Hope

November 27, 2018 @ Dauphin Way Baptist Church 3661 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36608 Kick off the holiday season, browsing and bidding on wonderfully decorated Christmas trees and wreaths and enjoying fun and fellowship, all while learning more about and helping to support children and families in the care of Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries (ABCH). Time: 6:00pm-8:00pm. (251) 463-8280 www.treesforhopemobile.com

Mobile Museum of Art – Holiday Art Market

November 29, 2018 @ Mobile Museum of Art 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, AL 36608 Join us from 5:00pm – 9:00pm for our Holiday Art Market. Support your local artists and join the party and shopping fun with great food, drink, and live music. (251) 208-5200 www.mobilemuseumofart.com

Chickasaw Lighting of the Community Christmas Tree

November 30, 2018 Intersection of West Lee Street and Grand Boulevard Chickasaw, AL 36611 Enjoy the Christmas season while caroling around the Christmas Tree. Bring your cameras for a family

tradition. Santa will arrive for pictures at 5:30pm Lighting of Tree will be at 6:30pm. (251) 452-6467 www.cityofchickasaw.org

Polar Express Pajama Party

November 30, 2018 @ GulfQuest 155 South Water Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for a viewing of The Polar Express overlooking Downtown and the Mobile River. Children are encouraged to wear their favorite pajamas (you too, grownups)! Enjoy hot chocolate, popcorn, and lots of fun and educational crafts. (251) 436-8901 www.gulfquest.org

Annual Christmas Jubilee Arts & Crafts at Georgetown Assembly of God

December 1, 2018 @ Georgetown Assembly of God 9436 Wilmer George Road Wilmer, AL 36587 Annual Christmas market from 9:00am-2:00pm. www.georgetownassembly.org

Breakfast with Santa Aboard The Polar Express

December 1, 2018 @ St. Francis Xavier Catholic 2034 St. Stephens Road Mobile, AL 36617 Join us for a homemade pancake breakfast, arts and crafts, face painting, a keepsake gift, the Polar Express movie! Santa himself will be there for the fun and for photos. Don’t forget to wear your favorite pajamas. Admission $8. Time: 8:30am-11:30am. (251) 767-6012

Christmas in Satsuma 2018 Arts & Crafts Festival and Reindeer Run

December 1, 2018 @ Baldwin Square Satsuma, AL 36572 Annual Reindeer Run 5K is held in The City of Sat-

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suma on the First Saturday of December of each year. It begins at 8:00am at Baldwin Square. After the Reindeer run the Arts and Crafts Festival will be held in Baldwin Square. (251) 303-3022 www.cityofsatsuma.com

Santa breakfast will be held at 8:00am. 5th Annual Wreaths for Charity, sponsored by the SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce and area businesses, will offer handmade artificial wreaths for sale at Breakfast with Santa. The sale will help raise funds for families in need.

30th Dauphin Island Christmas Parade

(251) 666-2488 tillmanscornerco@bellsouth.net www.swmcchamber.com

www.townofdauphinisland.org

A Victorian Christmas Wedding Celebration - Richards DAR House

December 1, 2018 @ Cadillac Square Dauphin Island, AL 36528

Mobile’s Singing Children Annual Christmas Concert - Ceremony of Carols December 1, 2018 @ Cathedral of Immaculate Conception 2 South Claiborne Street Mobile, AL 36602 Performance at 7:00pm. Admission is free with 10.00 suggested donation at the door. www.mobilesingingchildren.org

Satsuma Christmas Parade December 1, 2018 Start Time: 11:00am

www.cityofsatsuma.com

Semmes Christmas Extravaganza Gift Show

December 1, 2018 @ Semmes Community Center 10141 Moffett Road Semmes, AL 36575 There will be vendors, music, fashion show, door prizes and fun! Toy Donations appreciated. www.facebook.com/events/168533083835452/

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 2018 Christmas Parade

December 1, 2018 @ W.C. Griggs Elementary 6001 Three Notch Road Mobile, AL 36619 Parade will begin at 10:00am. Parade lineup begins at 8:00 a.m. at W.C. Griggs Elementary School on Three Notch Road in Tillman’s Corner. (251) 666-2488 www.swmcchamber.com

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 2018 Santa Breakfast and Wreaths for Charity

December 1, 2018 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL 36619 SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce

munity? We’d love for you to attend our Christmas Open House to find out! Tour our home in Mobile and see how our children have decorated for Christmas, while enjoying holiday treats. Join us from 2:00pm-5:00pm. (251) 639-1022 mobile@alabamachild.org www.alabamachild.org

Bella Voce - Christmas Concert

December 1 - 2, 2018 @ Richards DAR House 256 North Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36603 Vintage Victorian wedding gowns from Mobile City Museum will be on display--this event will take visitors a step back in time to bring in the Christmas season while experiencing a beautiful Victorian wedding. The Celebration is hosted by the local chapters of DAR. There’ll be light refreshments, house tours, and fun events for all ages. Donation is $10. Times: December 1 - 10:00am-4:00pm, December 2 - 1:00pm-4:00pm. (251) 208-7320 www.richardsdarhouse.com

December 2, 2018 @ St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 4051 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36608 Bella Voce of Mobile, Mobile’s premiere women’s chorus, presents “Christmas Gift”, their eleventh annual concert of beloved classics for the Christmas and holiday season at 4:00pm. A festive reception will follow in the Parish Hall. Admission is free. www.bellavoceofmobile.org

Holiday Sip N Shop at the Wharf

December 2, 2018 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

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

Pet Photos with Santa

Market on Sage

December 1 - 2, 2018 @ St. Pius Family Life Center 217 South Sage Avenue Mobile, AL 36606 St Pius X Catholic School is having their annual market! Come out and mark items off your Christmas list! (251) 471-2449 www.stpiustenth.com

Bragg-Mitchell Mansion Decorated for Christmas

December 2, 2018 @ B&B Pet Stop 5035 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, AL 36693 Gather the furry, feathered, and 4 legged members of your family and come to B&B Pet Stop for a pet photo with Santa starting at 11:00am. $10 CASH per 4x6 photo. (other sizes available at the event for an additional cost). Benefits the good folks at the Friends of the Mobile Animal Shelter. (251) 661-3474 www.bbpetstop.com

December 1-21, 2018 @ Bragg-Mitchell Mansion 1906 Spring Hill Avenue Mobile, AL 36607 Guests are invited to share the spirit of the season at the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion. Enjoy seasonal refreshments as you visit one of Mobile’s most iconic antebellum homes. Canopied by a grove of centuryold oaks and furnished with traditional Christmas decorations, fine antiques and crystal chandeliers, the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion beckons guests to share the beauty of the Christmas Season. Historical tours are Tuesday – Friday, 10:00am-4:00pm, on-the-hour. Private tours available for tour groups.

Holiday Cheer

Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes Christmas Open House

December 4, 2018 @ Laidlaw Performing Arts Center 5751 USA Drive South Mobile, AL 36608 USA Concert Choir and University Chorale Holiday Choral Concert with Laura M. Moore, conductor.

(251) 471-6364 www.braggmitchellmansion.com

December 2, 2018 6512 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36695 Would you like to know more about how to partner with us to help children and families in your com-

December 3, 2018 @ Five 609 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36602 Holiday Cheer to benefit the Child Advocacy Center will be from 6:00pm – 8:30pm. The event will feature samplings of The FIVE’s signature dishes and wines to taste, along with a select live auction of holiday gifts and live music by Jerry Squires. Tickets available at the FIVE and the CAC for $35 each. (251) 432-1101 www.cacmobile.org

USA Concert Choir & University Chorale Holiday Concert

(251) 460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/music

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USA Children’s & Women’s Holiday Tree Trail

little ones! Plenty of dinner options, cookie decorating, and even a little snow will be included!

December 4, 2018 - January 4, 2018 @ Geri Moulton Children’s Park 1700 Center Street Mobile, AL 36604 The Holiday Tree Trail is a free display of holiday trees for the community to enjoy in Geri Moulton Children’s Park from early December through the New Year. The trees will first light up at our Lights of Love ceremony on December 4th, and will be open nightly from dusk until midnight. For more information on how to sponsor a tree, please visit the website listed. (251) 415-1000 cwhdevelop@southalabama.edu www.usahealthsystem.com/holiday-tree-trail

Playhouse in the Park presents “Babes in Toyland”

Candlelight at The Loop

December 7, 2018 @ Midtown Mobile 5-8 pm. Loop-Midtown Businesses provide the free Trolley! Participating business has specials and prizes! (251) 479-8133

www.areyouintheloop.org

Mobile Symphony Youth Orchestra “Holiday Concert”

December 7, 2018 @ Foley Civic Center 407 East Laurel Avenue Foley, AL 36535 The child musicians are sure to move audiences with sounds of the Christmas season. 7:00pm. (251) 943-1545 www.mobilesymphony.org

December 5, 2018 @ Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 Playhouse in the Park will present the Victor Herbert classic musical, “Babes in Toyland” on Wednesday, December 5, at 7:30 p.m. The single public performance, which brings favorite storybook characters to life, will play at the Saenger Theatre. (251) 602-0630 www.playhouseinthepark.org

St. Mary Lighting Up Midtown!

(251) 432-8678 lwallace@stmarymobile.org

December 6, 2018 @ St. Mary Campus 1453 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36604 Join us for our annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Family Celebration following the St. Mary Catholic School Christmas Program beginning at 6:00pm. The Tree LIghting begins at approximately 6:45pm on the St. Mary Campus. Santa will arrive on the Lafayette Street Fire Truck and will be ready to take wish lists and have his photo made with all of our

Semmes Old Fashioned Christmas

December 7, 2018 @ Semmes Heritage Park 3871 Wulff Road Semmes, AL 36575 Free event sponsored by Semmes Heritage Park begins with a musical program by Indian Springs Baptist Children’s Choir directed by Diane Moore in Malone Chapel. After the program guest may proceed to the 1902 Semmes Schoolhouse were cookies and hot apple cider are served by lamplight. Open house in the log cabin reveals a Christmas Cedar tree decorated with wooden Christmas ornaments, ice cycles and a homemade star on top. 6pm www.cityofsemmesal.gov

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley” December 7-9, 14-16, 2018 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, AL 36611 An entertaining and quite delicious seasonal sequel

Open 4-9 p.m. Nov. 23-Dec. 9

Hop aboard for an authentic train ride through our snowy winter wonderland!

(Open Friday-Sunday)

Santa visit with free toy

Dec. 12-Dec. 24 (Open Nightly)

to “Pride and Prejudice,” a period pairing of Mary with a gentleman as awkwardly bookish as herself and thus a celebration of nerd love in all its overeducated glory. (251) 457-8887 www.cctshows.com

2018 Semmes Christmas Tour

December 8, 2018 @ Allentown Elementary 10330 Howells Ferry Road Semmes, AL 36575 Semmes Woman’s Club is proud to announce that 2018 marks our 10th TOUR Anniversary and also that our celebration has been endorsed as an official Alabama 200 Bicentennial event. You are invited to join us for holiday cheer with family and friends. The starting site is Allentown Elementary where tour guests will enjoy “tastings” of Southern favorites presented by local restaurants and specialty shops. At the Tasting Tour participants will receive a tour map to visit five beautifully decorated Host Homes and a Christmas Surprise. In addition, local retail shops are partnering on the TOUR and will have extended hours and special discounts for tour guests. $10 Pre-Sale Tickets available at Semmes Senior Center & Meggie B’s Gifts or online at Eventbrite.com or $12 at the door. Time: 3:00pm-8:00pm. (251) 288-7972

4th Annual Dawes Christmas Parade

December 8, 2018 @ Living Word Church 2900 Dawes Road Mobile, AL 36695 The Dawes Christmas Parade will start at 1:00pm at Living Word Church (2900 Dawes Road) and ends at PNC Bank at Cottage Hill and Schillinger Road. (251) 633-0033 info@dawesbizconnect.com www.dawesbizconnect.com

1 million+ lights Purchase tickets online or at the railroad! WalesWest.com

Use promo code “PARENT” for a discount on online tickets! 251-232-2322 13670 Smiley Street, Silverhill, AL 36576 Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Annual “Christmas through the Ages” at Fort Gaines

December 8, 2018 @ Fort Gaines 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Experience a Christmas of “Days Gone By!” This is a living history day for the whole family. See soldiers from the 1700s through the 1900s and their families as they celebrate a non-commercial Christmas. Children will have the chance to make a seashells ornament and other decorations. Admission: Adults (age 13+) $8.00, Children (age 5 to 12) $4.00. Time: 9:00am-5:00pm. (251) 861-6992 fortgaines@outlook.com www.dauphinisland.org

Annual Chickasaw Christmas Parade

December 8, 2018 50 12th Avenue Chickasaw, AL 36611 Mark your calendar for the Annual Chickasaw Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 8th at 3:00pm. (251) 452-6467 www.cityofchickasaw.org

Holiday Half Marathon & 8K Run

December 8, 2018 @ Mullet Point Park 13203 County Road 1 Fairhope, AL 36532 The Holiday Half Marathon & 8K Run will start at 8:30am at Mullet Point Park. The race benefits USA Children`s and Women`s Hospital Pediatrics Department. Everyone is encouraged to bring a new toy in its original wrapping to the race. Toys are needed to distract the children while they are in the hospital. (251) 473-7223 www.pcpacers.org

Holiday Market & Christmas Kids Day

December 8, 2018 Cathedral Square and Bienville Square Mobile, AL Join us for arts and crafts, fun activities, music,. pictures, dance performances and much more! Time: 10:00am-2:00pm. (251) 208-1550 www.ncsmobile.org

December 8, 2018 @ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

December 8 @ LuLu’s 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Billy Claus and his LuLubelle’s will arrive in style, read a Christmas story, and listen to your wish list to pass on to Santa! Enjoy arts & crafts, live music and get your picture taken with Billy Claus and more fun from 1pm - 4pm.

Saraland Christmas Parade and Mistletoe Market

(251) 967-LULU (5858); www.LuluBuffett.com

(251) 675-4444 www.saralandchamber.com

Boat Parade Activities at The Wharf

Semmes Christmas Parade

December 8 @ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

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

The Tenth Annual Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas

December 8, 2018 @ Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 As always, the centerpiece is the remarkable portfolio of music that Vince Guaraldi composed for the classic animated program “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” a suite that has proven accessible to generations of children yet which also has an understated sophistication that rewards serious musicians and listeners. It’ll be performed by the Joe Cool Trio. (251) 208-5600 www.cbjazzchristmas.com

December 8, 2018 4401 Whistler Street Eight Mile, AL 36613 Join us for Christmas shopping, free food, a chili cook off and a silent auction. (251) 209-9178

December 8, 2018 @ Saraland Municipal Complex Join us for the 2nd Annual Mistletoe Market (Held in conjunction with the Christmas Parade.) 9:00am– 4:00pm, come shop, eat, learn, and enjoy the Spartan festivities! Parade 12:00pm.

Happy Howlidays Kid & Pet Parade at The Wharf December 9 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

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

The Mobile Pops Christmas Concert

December 8, 2018 Highway 98 to Firetower Road Semmes, AL 36575 The Semmes Annual Christmas Parade with floats

(251) 649-8811 information@cityofsemmesal.gov www.cityofsemmesal.gov

Trinity Faith Bible Church’s Christmas Extravaganza

Jingle Jubilee Kids Craft Day

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

Billy Claus visits Lulu’s!

from area businesses and churches, marching bands, antique cars, and lots of throws. 10am.

December 13, 2018 @ Davidson High School 3900 Pleasant Valley Road Mobile, AL 36609 7pm. All concerts are FREE and open to the public. (251) 679-6036 www.themobilepops.com

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Elf-A-Palooza

December 14, 2018 @ Bienville Square Mobile, AL 36602 This is Mobile’s chance to break the Guinness World Record for most elves in one place. To be a part of the official count, come wearing red, green, an elf hat and - whatever you do - don’t forget your pointy ears! Time: 5:00pm-8:00pm. www.ncsmobile.org

Fowl River Boat Parade

Mobile Symphony presents “Tis the Season”

December 15-16, 2018 @ Saenger Theatre 6 Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 Our annual Christmas concert is a Mobile tradition, and we’ve packed this year’s program with the best of traditional holiday music set in a magical winter wonderland. December 15 - 7:30pm and December 16 - 2:30pm. (251) 432-2010 www.mobilesymphony.org

December 15, 2018 @ Pelican Reef 11799 Dauphin Island Pkwy Theodore, AL 36582 5:00pm-11:30pm. The boats in the parade are decorated with lights. The parade starts at The NoWake Zone at the end of Fowl River and go down the river making occasional stops to throw goodies to everyone on the docks.

6th Annual Holiday Market

Pajama Storytime - A Family Holiday Event - Toulminville Branch

Celebrate Christmas Saraland Public Library

December 15, 2018 @ Toulminville Branch 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL 36619 A Family Holiday Event. Calling all children for our Holiday Pajama Storytime! Enjoy an evening of Holiday stories, games & songs. Light refreshments will be served too! Registration is encouraged. (251) 438-7075 glaffiette@mplonline.org www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

The Mobile Pops Christmas Concert

December 15, 2018 @ Murphy High School 100 South Carlen Mobile, AL 36606 Enjoy a variety of holiday music performed by the Mobile Pops Band. 7:00pm -9:00pm at Murphy High School Auditorium. (251) 679-6036 www.themobilepops.com

December 16, 2018 @ OK Bicycle Shop 661 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36602 1pm-4pm as we will have local vendors selling their unique items from clothes, jewelry, specialty made food items, art, furniture, home decor, handbags, candles, beauty products and the list goes on!

December 20, 2018 @ Saraland Public Library 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, AL 36571 Join us for Christmas crafts, games and refreshments – we will celebrate everything Christmas! Ages 3 and up. 6:00pm. Groups must register.

Something Special for SaturdayGingerbread Decorating Party

December 22, 2018 @ Moorer/Spring Hill Branch 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL 36608 10:30am for ages 5 and up. (251) 470-7770 ftigner@mplonline.org www.mplonline.org

MoonPie Over Mobile New Year’s Eve Celebration

December 31, 2018 @ Downtown Mobile This year’s New Year’s event will usher in the new year and Mardi Gras season in grand style. Come and get a close-up look at the MoonPie as it drops in downtown Mobile. There will be live entertainment and a countdown to 2019 like no other. (251) 208-1550 www.ncsmobile.org

Noon Year’s Eve Celebration!

December 31 @ Lulu’s 200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL 36542 The Family friendly NOON Year’s Eve Celebration at LuLu’s starts at 10:00AM! Noon Year’s is a FREE family event for all ages to enjoy. We will have kid friendly activities, a massive beach ball drop when the clock strikes NOON! See you there!

(251) 675-2879 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

(251) 967-LULU (5858) www.LuluBuffett.com

Carpe Diem’s Santa Run

Reelin’ In the New Year - NYE Street Party

December 22, 2018 @ Carpe Diem Coffee and Tea Company 4072 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36608 The Santa Run is an annual 2 mile fun-run, walk, bike ride dog walking, fun for the whole family charity event. Holiday Costumes are encouraged. Time: 10:00am. www.carpe-cofee.com

December 31, 2018 @ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

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

SPECTRA Sound & Light Spectacular all year @ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 (251) 224-1000

www.alwharf.com

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Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

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Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

When kids get ready to play outside games, for a time they are taking ownership of a sacred space of land. It may be their own yard, a neighbor’s field, the local grassy mall or any green expanse that’s available for them to plant their flag. Marking out their boundaries for the temporary field of play, the shape of the game can be as freeform as tag or as formal as football. The following items encourage something in between. Recommended for engaging kids outdoors, these games and activities offer ground rules for competitive fun while presenting plenty of options for expanded, alternative or solo yard play.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Flickin’ Chicken Game

Kick Croquet Outdoor Game

Undeniably entertaining, the Flickin’ Chicken Game launches floppy fowls into the realm of yard games. Complete with a target, two score pads and four rubber chickens, aim is key as players flick their featherless fowl toward the bullseye. More challenging than it appears, the comic bounce and roll of the chickens keeps the gameplay moving in unexpected and hilarious directions. Combining the low score goal of miniature golf with the unpredictable landings of rubber chickens, this fowl free-for-all is a plucky addition to the outdoor game shelf. Loaded with laughter for children, and just absurd enough to steal the heart of college age kids, Flickin’ Chicken wings to the heights of outdoor poultry play.

Croquet, when it’s all grown up, can be an exacting competition that demands concentration and patience. For the younger set, with a surplus of enthusiasm, Kick Croquet from Hearthsong offers a less restricted and more energetic introduction to the normally staid lawn game. Featuring seven oversized wickets that plant in the ground, two inflatable canvas-covered kickballs, and two finish flags, Kick Croquet expands the footprint of the game for young learners. Notably, the hoop targets are flexible to absorb the errant aim of young learners. Ideal for teaching a traditional lawn sport while encouraging outdoor exercise, this child-friendly game kicks the old game of croquet into high gear!

(The Haywire Group)

(Hearthsong)

Two-in-One Game Set

FlyDay Flying Hoop (FlyDay)

Part frisbee and part kite, the Flyday Flying Hoop can sail up to 100 feet with the flick of the arm. With LEDs incorporated into its balanced body, this super-sized disc can light up in the modes of illumination while soaring through darkened skies. Crafted from flexible ring framing and durable lightweight spandex fabric, this hoop won’t leave a mark when it occasionally crash lands into siding, cars or foreheads. The disc comes with a smart, compact carrying case that makes it the ideal addition to vacation luggage and outdoor outing totes. Large and bright enough to easily see and retrieve, the Flying Hoop supports improved hand-eye coordination, gross and fine motor development, and healthy outdoor activity, day or night.

(Magic Cabin)

Featuring the basic net game components of tennis and badminton, the Two-in-One Game Set is an easy and fun introduction for little kids who’d like to try out racquet sports. Included in the set are two racquets, an oversized badminton birdie, a big tennis ball and volleyball, plus a lightweight five-foot wide stand-alone net. The racquets feature an extra large hitting surface and are lightweight, perfect for little hands to wield. Before kids’ fine motor skills evolve to connect with small fast-moving targets, the Two-in-One Game Set lets them learn the basics through play and experience success on their way to bigger games.

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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FamilyCalendar Friday October 26

Forks and Corks 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Estuarium at Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Fundraising Gala and Seafood Extravaganza featuring a culinary challenge by student chefs from Mobile County Public School System’s Hospitality and Tourism Program at the Estuarium. 251-861-2141 www.artsealab.org/about/corks-andforks-culinary-arts-competition Pump It Up Not-So-Scary Halloween Jump

($10.95)

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM, Pump it Up, 741-A Hillcrest Road Mobile, 36695 Halloween is simply spooktacular when you’re bouncing, laughing, sliding, and howling at our Halloween Jump Night www.pumpitupparty.com/mobile-al Trinity Episcopal Church Family Friendly Haunted House (Adults -$10, Children under 12 -$5, Special pricing for groups of 10+)

6:30 PM - 9:00 PM, Trinity Episcopal, 1900 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36606 Trinity Episcopal Church Family Friendly Haunted House. www.trinitychurchmobile.org St. Mary Parish to Host Archdiocesan 177 Project (Free)

6:45 PM 1453 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36604 The 177 Project is a nationwide tour featuring Eucharistic Adoration and some of the most talented Catholic musicians in the country. This fall, the 177 Project is partnering with 22 different artists to bring an evening of Eucharistic Adoration and music to every single diocese in the US! www.the177project.com Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Tom Jones” 7:30 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Tom Jones” www.mobiletheatreguild.org Annual Renaissance Festival 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Hosted by the Society of Creative Anachronism, the Barony of Osprey will present Life in the Middle Ages. You will see Knights in Armor as they storm the castle, view melee’s and sieges. Visit with Lords, Ladies, Artist, and Medieval Merchants. Watch our resident Blacksmith demonstrate his craft in the Fort’s original Blacksmith Shop. www.dauphinisland.org Fireside Ghost Stories (Admission: $4 adults/$3 kids ages 6-12/under 6 is free.) Blakeley State Park, 34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, 36527 Join us as we gather around the campfire for special presentations by local storytellers Harriet Outlaw and Irene Wegner. Outlaw is former teacher and popular speaker on local history, as well as the author of the acclaimed book, Haunted Baldwin County, Wegner is a storyteller who has been entertaining audiences with her professional performances for more than 30 years. She specializes in old folk tales told long ago on porches in the swamps and deep, dark woods. www.blakeleypark.com

Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, 36608 We will feature the largest midway on the Gulf Coast, food, games, entertainment acts, and live music! Hours: Monday-Tuesday from 4:00pm-10:00pm, Wednesday October 31 from 4:00pm-12:00am, Thursday 4:00pm10:00pm, Friday from 4:00pm-12:00pm, Saturday from 11:00am-12:00am and Sunday October 28 from

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

12:00pm-10:00pm and Sunday, November 4, from 12:00pm-9:00pm. www.thegroundsmobile.com Harvest Festival -Tanner Williams Assembly of God Tanner Williams Assembly of God, 14440 Tanner Williams Wilmer, 36587 Harvest Festival will be held from 6:00pm-8:00pm. Fun for the entire family. Children can play games, get candy and have a great time. They also get a free hot dog and drink. For the adults, there’ll be additional food items available for purchase--and a silent auction. 251-649-2580

Saturday October 27

Fall Market in the Park 7:30 AM Cathedral Square , 300 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 The City of Mobile’s Certified Alabama Farmers Market has a new logo & new name-Market in the Park. The Fall Market is in Cathedral Square, with not only the vendors you’ve come to love, but with new vendors as well! Now you have more locally-produced, locally-made items to choose from. www.ncsmobile.org 9th Annual “Shirley Looney Memorial” Car Show (Free) 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Dauphin Way Baptist Church, 3661 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36608 The 9th Annual “Shirley Looney Memorial” Car Show will be held at Dauphin Way Baptist Church. We always have a large assortment of antique, new and classic cars, trucks, hot rods and rat rods. Registration opens at 8:00 am. Entry Fee is $20 if received by October 18, and $25 day of show. Awards include Shirley’s Choice, Best of Show PLUS $250 Cash, Best Paint, Best Interior, Best Engine, Top 30 and Sponsor Awards. We will also have 25 or more vendors selling unique and quality items for the entire family. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be grilled on site and for sale. This is a FREE event open for the public to attend, and is a benefit for student ministry missions and summer camp scholarships. 251-445-4163 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Bienville Square, 150 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36602 Join us for the 11th annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk of South Alabama! Making Strides is a 3.5 mile fundraising walk to raise awareness about breast cancer and raise funds for research and patient support services. www.makingstrideswalk.org/mobileal 5 Rivers Halloween Bash 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Our favorite time of year! On Saturday, Oct 27 from 10am-4pm, we will have our FREE, family friendly Halloween celebration. There will be crafts, music, movies, trail rides, games, $5 boat tours, food trucks, and a costume contest at 3pm. www.Alabama5Rivers.com First Annual Interdimensional Worlds Faire (Free) 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, 36602 Please join us in beautiful downtown Mobile Alabama along the waterfront at Cooper Riverside Park for a day filled with fun and compassion. We are proud to bring you a wide variety of artists, authors, merchants, and fan groups as well as local charities and businesses. Come explore all the activities, attractions, and performances throughout the faire and on our two stages. www.airshipaberrantcre.wixsite.com/airship-aberrant Halloween at the Exploreum 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Family friendly activities and demos will be inspired by animation while exploring the amazing world of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. Enjoy creative flip books, bat crafts, yummy banana

mummies, ghost orbs, spooky sounds of a Theremin, games, cartoons and more!! Don’t forget to dress up in your Halloween costume, because prizes will be awarded during 12:30pm costume contest. www.exploreum.com Trick or Treat at Seward Farms 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Seward Farms, 10836 Tanner Williams Road Lucedale, 39452 Come in your favorite costume and Trick or Treat at the Farm from 10am-9pm with our favorite Cartoon Characters. Characters out from 11am–3pm. Activities include the Corn Maze, Corn Cannons, Hay Rides, Cow Train Rides, Jumping Pillow, Pony Rides, Pig Races, Farm Animal Alley, Funny Farm Golf, Playground Area and so much more! The Wagon Wheel Cafe will be open for lunch and dinner. www.sewardfarms.com Boo at Bellingrath

($13 for adults and $7.50 for ages 5-12. There is no charge for Bellingrath members and children 4 and younger)

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, 36582 Dress up your little ghosts and goblins for Boo at Bellingrath, a day of Halloween fun at Bellingrath Gardens from 11:00am to 2:00pm. The Gardens will be filled with Halloweenthemed inflatables to guide visitors along the pathways to the Great Lawn. Local businesses and organizations will set up numerous treat stations to hand out candy and trinkets to trick-or-treaters. The Halloween fun will include Magic Shows featuring Dr. Gee and his magic balloons; spooky storytelling with our friends from the Mobile Public Library; musical entertainment on Live Oak Plaza; food trucks on the Great Lawn; and extra goodies and surprises throughout the Gardens. www.bellingrath.org Kids Studio ($5 or free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with hands-on projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Age 3-10 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org St. Mary Catholic School Mustang Stampede and Fall Festival 1:00 PM 107 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 The pre-Halloween event begins at 1:00pm and features decorated cars with trunks of candy for trick or treaters. Prizes for best trunk, and best costumes. Plenty of activities for children to include games, arts and crafts, and cookie decorating. The cost is $1 per walk up per trick or treater. All those who would like to participate with a decorated car and a trunk full of treats can reserve a spot by contacting Laurel Wallace at lwallace@stmarymobile.org or (251) 432-8678. www.stmarymobile.org Fall Fun Fest! (Free) 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, 36617 Fun for the Entire Family. Join us for games, Trivia, Bingo, a cake walk and so much more! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Trunk or Treat (Free) 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Moorer/Springhill Branch, 4 McGregor South Mobile, 36608 Family Fun! Wear your costumes and join us for a special Halloween event! Trunks will be decorated and volunteers will be handing out all kinds of treats. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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FamilyCalendar Trinity Episcopal Church Family Friendly Haunted House (Adults -$10, Children under 12 -$5, Special pricing for groups of 10+)

6:30 PM - 9:00 PM, Trinity Episcopal, 1900 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36606 Trinity Episcopal Church Family Friendly Haunted House. www.trinitychurchmobile.org Stephen Marley at The Steeple 7:00 PM The Steeple, 251 St. Francis Street Mobile, 36602 Stephen Marley at The Steeple. www.thesteeplemobile.com The Mystery of Devil’s Gulch and Mobile Mystery Halloween Party 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Battle House Hotel Ballroom, Mobile, 36602 We are throwing a Halloween Party that must not be missed. This is a party like no other featuring a dinner theatre performance, full buffet and costume contest. 21 and over event. www.mobilemysterydinners.com Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Tom Jones” 7:30 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Tom Jones” www.mobiletheatreguild.org Annual Renaissance Festival 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Hosted by the Society of Creative Anachronism, the Barony of Osprey will present Life in the Middle Ages. You will see Knights in Armor as they storm the castle, view melee’s and sieges. Visit with Lords, Ladies, Artist, and Medieval Merchants. Watch our resident Blacksmith demonstrate his craft in the Fort’s original Blacksmith Shop. www.dauphinisland.org ARTSealab Festival Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 The DISL 36-acre campus will host a two-day indoor and juried outdoor arts festival. This festival will feature: live music, hands-on art and science learning experiences, a Marine Debris 3D competition, Gulf “Folk” Life demonstrations, community booths. Also featured are visual artists and their works related to the marine and estuarine life of Alabama, from the “Deltas to the Deep Ocean Blue”. A middle and high school online arts competition, “Love Our Gulf” www.loveourgulf.org, and a live open mic featuring Marine Science Consortia eco-poets, community poetry writing projects, and chapbook print making will be held in the DISL Shelby auditorium and Estuarium Schooling Room. www.artsealab.org Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, 36608 We will feature the largest midway on the Gulf Coast, food, games, entertainment acts, and live music! Hours: Monday-Tuesday from 4:00pm-10:00pm, Wednesday October 31 from 4:00pm-12:00am, Thursday 4:00pm10:00pm, Friday from 4:00pm-12:00pm, Saturday from 11:00am-12:00am and Sunday October 28 from 12:00pm-10:00pm and Sunday, November 4, from 12:00pm-9:00pm. www.thegroundsmobile.com Magnolia Corn Maze - Trick or Treat Magnolia Corn Maze, 15275 County Road 49 Summerdale, 36580 Come get lost in our 2 Eight Acre Corn Mazes. Magnolia Corn Maze offers Fun for the whole Family! Come enjoy our Hayride, Cow Train, Pumpkin Patch, Petting Zoo, Pig Races, Corn Cannons, Jump Pad, Paintball Shooting Gallery, Campfires, and much, much more! We also have Bazooka Ball and Our All New Mag’s B Line. Magnolia Corn Maze is a great place to host your Next Party or Group Outing! Join us Saturday, October 27 for Trick or Treat. www.magnoliacornmaze.com

Oak Park Church Fall Festival Oak Park Church, 3321 Sollie Road Mobile, 36695 Join us for a trunk or treat, food, hayrides, games, jumps, candy and more. www.opcmobile.church Woofstock (Adults - $10, Kids (4-12 yrs old) - $5 and Kids under 4 are free.)

Serda Brewing Company, 600 Government Street Mobile, 36602 We’re taking over the grounds of Serda Brewing Co. - a full city block and will have activities for ALL ages. Join us for beer, music, and tons of Halloween fun! Bring your pooch and be sure to enter the doggy costume contest. Hosted by the Animal Rescue Foundation. www.woofstockmobile.com

Sunday October 28

Boots and Jazz Brunch for McKemie Place 11:30 AM The Country Club of Mobile, 4101 Wimbledon Drive Mobile, 36608 Join us for our largest annual fundraiser, “Boots & Jazz Brunch” to support the operations of the Region’s only homeless shelter for women. Silent auction to begin at 11:30am, with entertainment by Josh and Noah Thompson of Roman Street. Wear your favorite boots and have a wonderful time supporting an amazing cause! www.eventbrite.com GulfQuest Halloween Fest 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, GulfQuest Maritime Museum, 155 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Come join the fun for the entire family! We will have a wide range of activities for all ages, including pumpkin painting and trick-ortreating throughout our exhibits. www.gulfquest.org Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Tom Jones” 2:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Tom Jones” www.mobiletheatreguild.org Mobile Chamber Music presents The Lysander Piano Trio 3:00 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html Trinity Episcopal Church Family Friendly Haunted House (Adults -$10, Children under 12 -$5, Special pricing for groups of 10+)

3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Trinity Episcopal, 1900 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36606 Trinity Episcopal Church Family Friendly Haunted House. www.trinitychurchmobile.org Dauphin Way Baptist Church Fall Festival (Free) 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM, Dauphin Way Baptist Church, 3661 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36608 Our Fall Festival will be from 3:30pm-6:00pm. We will have rides, games, inflatables, a petting zoo, hayride, food, and music. The event is free. www.dwbc.org Ashland Place United Methodist Trunk or Treat (Free) 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM, 15 Wisteria Avenue Mobile, 36607 Please join us for family-friendly festivities! Our Trunk-or-Treat features a live DJ, inflatables, carnival games, hot dogs, popcorn, and tons of candy and treats from a variety of themed trunks. The more, the merrier -- so bring a friend! Time: 4:00pm-5:30pm. www.apumc.com

Dauphin Way Methodist Trunk or Treat (Free) 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Corner of Dauphin and Catherine Streets Mobile, 36604 Trunk-or-Treat is a big family friendly event. All are welcome so grab a friend and join the fun! We will have trunks, treats, games and lots of fun! Trunk-or Treat is located in the patch at the corner of Catherine and Dauphin Street. Costumes are optional but it’s way more fun to trunk-or-treat in a costume. Time: 4:00pm-6:00pm. www.dauphinwayumc.org Family Fall Festival 5:30 PM Georgetown Assembly of God, 9436 Wilmer Georgetown Road Wilmer, 36587 Free Rides, Free Food, Free Admission, All are welcome! Canned foods donations accepted (for our thanksgiving baskets) - all begins at 5:30 pm Sunday, October 28th www.georgetownassembly.org Don Felder 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Don Felder in concert. www.mobilesaenger.com Family Day (Free) 11:00 PM - 1:00 PM, St. Mark United Methodist Church, 439 Azalea Road Mobile, 36609 Free Food, Snow Cones, Bounce House, and Free Gift Bags for Every Kids! www.stmarkmobile.com Annual Renaissance Festival 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Hosted by the Society of Creative Anachronism, the Barony of Osprey will present Life in the Middle Ages. You will see Knights in Armor as they storm the castle, view melee’s and sieges. Visit with Lords, Ladies, Artist, and Medieval Merchants. Watch our resident Blacksmith demonstrate his craft in the Fort’s original Blacksmith Shop. www.dauphinisland.org ARTSealab Festival Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 This festival will feature: live music, hands-on art and science learning experiences, a Marine Debris 3D competition, Gulf “Folk” Life demonstrations, community booths. Also featured are visual artists and their works related to the marine and estuarine life of Alabama, from the “Deltas to the Deep Ocean Blue”. A middle and high school online arts competition, “Love Our Gulf” www.loveourgulf.org, and a live open mic featuring Marine Science Consortia eco-poets, community poetry writing projects, and chapbook print making will be held in the DISL Shelby auditorium and Estuarium Schooling Room. www.artsealab.org Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, 36608 We will feature the largest midway on the Gulf Coast, food, games, entertainment acts, and live music! www.thegroundsmobile. com

Monday October 29

Thomas L. Rowell, Faculty Voice Recital 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/ upcomingevents.html Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, 36608 We will feature the largest midway on the Gulf Coast, food, games, entertainment acts, and live music! Hours:

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FamilyCalendar Monday-Tuesday from 4:00pm-10:00pm, Wednesday October 31 from 4:00pm-12:00am, Thursday 4:00pm10:00pm, Friday from 4:00pm-12:00pm, Saturday from 11:00am-12:00am and Sunday October 28 from 12:00pm-10:00pm and Sunday, November 4, from 12:00pm-9:00pm. www.thegroundsmobile.com

Tuesday October 30

Kip Franklin, Faculty Clarinet Recital 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, 36608 We will feature the largest midway on the Gulf Coast, food, games, entertainment acts, and live music! www.thegroundsmobile.com

Wednesday October 31

Trick or Treat at the Library (Free) 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM, West Regional Branch, 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Calling all children – put on your costume and join us for Trick or Treating throughout the Library from 3:00pm-6:30pm. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Trinity Episcopal Church Family Friendly Haunted House (Adults -$10, Children under 12 -$5, Special pricing for groups of 10+)

3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Trinity Episcopal, 1900 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36606 Trinity Episcopal Church Family Friendly Haunted House. www.trinitychurchmobile.org Halloween at the Library (Free) 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Ben May Main Branch, 701 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602 Put on your costumes and join us for crafts and Trick or Treating throughout the Library www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Woodridge Baptist Church “Harvest Celebration” Fall Festival (Free) 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM, 2700 Schillinger Road South Mobile, 36695 Enjoy train rides, trunk or treat, popcorn, drinks, corn dogs, games, candy and more! www.woodridgebc.com Saraland United Methodist Church Trunk or Treat 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM, Saraland United Methodist Church, 415 McKeough Avenue Saraland, 36571 We’ll have hot dogs, chips, and drinks for everyone to enjoy. There will be cars for Trunk or Treat, crafts, a bounce house, and a hayride! EVERYONE is encouraged to come in costume...adults, too! If it rains, come inside and join us in the Fellowship Hall! We hope to see you there! www.saralandumc.org Shadow Lawn Baptist Church Trunk or Treat

(Free)

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Shadow Lawn Baptist Church, 5665 Dogwood Trail Eightmile, 36613 We will have games, food, train rides, hayrides, and treats. www.shadowlawnbc.com Snow Road First Baptist Fall Trunk & Treat (Free) 6:00 PM Snow Road First Baptist Church, 2370 Snow Road North Semmes, 36575 More than 30 trucks decorated and full of candy! We will also have Free food,

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

popcorn, cotton candy, arts & crafts, face painting, game and so much more! Admission is free to everyone donations taken up for “Global Hunger Relief”. Fun for the whole family!!! www.srfbc.com Fall Festival First Christian Church, 1419 Government Street Mobile, 36604 This fun for the whole family event includes indoor games, prizes, candy, popcorn, corn dogs and much more. Come in costume or come as you are. www.firstchristianchurchmobile.com Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, 36608 We will feature the largest midway on the Gulf Coast, food, games, entertainment acts, and live music! Hours: Monday-Tuesday from 4:00pm-10:00pm, Wednesday October 31 from 4:00pm-12:00am, Thursday 4:00pm10:00pm, Friday from 4:00pm-12:00pm, Saturday from 11:00am-12:00am and Sunday October 28 from 12:00pm-10:00pm and Sunday, November 4, from 12:00pm-9:00pm. www.thegroundsmobile.com Knollwood Church - Lit 2018 Knollwood Church, 1501 Knollwood Drive Mobile, 36609 Join us for our Fall Festival event including free food, candy, activities, bonfire and more. Kids and adults are encouraged to dress up in your family friendly costumes. www.knollwoodchurch.website West Mobile Baptist Fall Festival (Free) West Mobile Baptist Church, 7501 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608 We will have trunk or treat, food, games, candy, inflatables, and fun at our family-friendly event. It is completely free of charge. www.wemochurch.org

Thursday November 1

from 11:00am-12:00am and Sunday October 28 from 12:00pm-10:00pm and Sunday, November 4, from 12:00pm-9:00pm. www.thegroundsmobile.com

Friday November 2

Ugandan Kids Choir 11:30 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government Street Mobile, 36602 The children in the Ugandan Kids Choir bring a message of hope—sharing the power of God’s love through traditional music and dance. As they tour the US, they delight audiences with their high-energy performances and infectious joy. www.childcareworldwide.org/ugandan-kids-choir

Bay Bash 6:00 PM 10:00 PM, Gulfquest, 155 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 The event features delicious Gulf seafood from local chefs, caterers, and restaurants, signature cocktails, live music, and a silent auction all along the Mobile River. www.gulfquest.org Bayou Bash 6:00 PM All Saints Episcopal Church, 151 South Ann Street Mobile, 36604 Bayou Bash is All Saint’s annual fundraiser for our outreach ministries. Bayou Bash has consistently provided essential financial support to a variety of local ministries and charities. www.eventful.com

Sing & Dance with Mr. Butch! (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Join Mr. Butch for an hour of singing, dancing and Karaoke too! Ages 6-12. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Mainstage Opera Double Feature 7:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 Mainstage Opera Double Feature featuring L’Enfant et les Sortilèges and Hansel & Gretel. www.umobile.edu/academics/alabama-school-arts/ center-for-performing-arts/performing-arts-series/

USA Percussion Ensemble Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 USA Percussion Ensemble Fall Concert. 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/ upcomingevents.html Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, 36608 We will feature the largest midway on the Gulf Coast, food, games, entertainment acts, and live music! Hours: Monday-Tuesday from 4:00pm-10:00pm, Wednesday October 31 from 4:00pm-12:00am, Thursday 4:00pm10:00pm, Friday from 4:00pm-12:00pm, Saturday

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Alabama Pecan Festival 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, 36619 This family-oriented festival at the Tillman’s Corner Community Center features a carnival atmosphere with rides, food, face painting, arts and crafts, live music, antique car and tractor show, Azalea City Quilters Guild and more. There is something for everyone. www.alabamapecanfestival.com

Kids Studio (Free) 4:00 PM West Regional Library, 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Join staff from the Alabama Contemporary Art Center to explore contemporary art and music through hands-on and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of art. Ages 8-13. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Light The Night Mobile 5:30 PM Hank Aaron Stadium, 755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard Mobile, 36606 The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society - Alabama/Gulf Coast Chapter presents Light The Night Mobile. This free family-fun event will have a children’s area, music, games, food, a remembrance dome and much more. It ends with a symbolic 1 mile walk around the stadium to honor those lost, those still fighting and survivors. 251-406-8471 www.lightthenight.org

Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice”. www.joejeffersonplayers.com Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Tom Jones” 7:30 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Tom Jones” www.mobiletheatreguild.org Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, 36608 We will feature the largest midway on the Gulf Coast, food, games, entertainment acts, and live music! Hours: Monday-Tuesday from 4:00pm-10:00pm, Wednesday October 31 from 4:00pm-12:00am, Thursday 4:00pm10:00pm, Friday from 4:00pm-12:00pm, Saturday from 11:00am-12:00am and Sunday October 28 from 12:00pm-10:00pm and Sunday, November 4, from 12:00pm-9:00pm. www.thegroundsmobile.com

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Calendar Saturday November 3

Fall Market in the Park 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Cathedral Square , 300 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 The City of Mobile’s Certified Alabama Farmers Market has a new logo & new name-Market in the Park. The Fall Market is in Cathedral Square, with not only the vendors you’ve come to love, but with new vendors as well! Now you have more locally-produced, locally-made items to choose from. www.ncsmobile.org Alabama Pecan Festival 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, 36619 This family-oriented festival at the Tillman’s Corner Community Center features a carnival atmosphere with rides, food, face painting, arts and crafts, live music, antique car and tractor show, Azalea City Quilters Guild and more. There is something for everyone. www.alabamapecanfestival.com DIPG Warrior Walk 10:00 AM USS Battleship Memorial Parkway, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602 Join us on November 3 in Mobile, AL to Wage War on DIPG with the DIPG Warrior Walk. A family friendly walk to honor our DIPG Warriors and fund vital research to help find a cure! www.csnevents.org/mobilewarrior

ing L’Enfant et les Sortilèges and Hansel & Gretel. www.umobile.edu/academics/alabama-school-arts/ center-for-performing-arts/performing-arts-series/

inhabitants from the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and beyond. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

First Lady of the Revolution - Documentary Screening (Free) 2:00 PM Ben May Main Branch, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join us in Bernheim Hall for a screening of Spark Media’s latest documentary feature First Lady of the Revolution. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Tom Jones” 7:30 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Tom Jones” www.mobiletheatreguild.org Cotton Festival Tanner Williams Park, 12855 Old Tanner Williams Road Wilmer, 36587 Come celebrate Tanner Williams life with us! We will have a Cotton Pageant, Pie Contest, Art Contest, Vendors, Music, and more. Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, 36608 We will feature the largest midway on the Gulf Coast, food, games, entertainment acts, and live music! Hours: Monday-Tuesday from 4:00pm-10:00pm, Wednesday October 31 from 4:00pm-12:00am, Thursday 4:00pm10:00pm, Friday from 4:00pm-12:00pm, Saturday from 11:00am-12:00am and Sunday October 28 from 12:00pm-10:00pm and Sunday, November 4, from 12:00pm-9:00pm. www.thegroundsmobile.com

Environmental Studies Center Fall Open House 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Environmental Studies Center , 6101 Girby Road Mobile, 36693 Bring your family out to the 500 acre property that is the Mobile County School System’s Environmental Studies Center. Enjoy a day of walking trails, native wildlife exhibits, animal presentations, planetarium shows, food, and fun. All proceeds from concessions and all donations go to wildlife care. 251-221-5000

Senior Bowl Charity Run Downtown Mobile, Mobile, 36602 Charity race and afterwards a family festival. Bienville Square will be the center of a Family Fun Festival featuring the Wells Fargo stagecoach, a petting zoo, inflatable interactives, face painters, clowns and plenty of free food and drinks for all runners and their families to enjoy. www.seniorbowl.com/community-charity-run.php

Kids Studio ($5 or free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with hands-on projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Age 3-10 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org

11th Annual Steve Thompson Memorial Golf Tournament 11:00 AM Spring Hill College Golf Course, 4000 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36608 Join the St. Mary Knights of Columbus at Spring Hill College Golf Course! Contact Celie Tobias at celietobias@gmail.com for to register or for more information.

Ugandan Kids Choir 11:45 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, 36602 The children in the Ugandan Kids Choir bring a message of hope—sharing the power of God’s love through traditional music and dance. As they tour the US, they delight audiences with their high-energy performances and infectious joy. www.childcareworldwide.org/ugandan-kids-choir Smashing PumpkinFest 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Bring your Halloween pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns and test the laws of gravity by dropping them and smashing them in some exciting and educational ways. You bring the pumpkins, we clean up the mess. That mess will be used as compost for our courtyard garden. www.exploreum.com Mainstage Opera Double Feature 7:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 Mainstage Opera Double Feature featur-

Sunday November 4

Weddings to Brag About Bridal & Special Event Show 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Azalea Manor, 751 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36602 One of the south’s longest running bridal and special event shows is getting ready for another great year! Join us November 4, 2018 from Noon-4PM at Mobile’s beautiful Azalea Manor! One lucky couple will win a FREE wedding, reception, and honeymoon! www.weddingstobragabout.com Oh Baby Benefit 1:00 PM Langan Park, 4901 Zeigler Boulevard Mobile, 36608 The Women’s Resource Center invites all families to join us at Langan Park for an exciting day of inflatables, food trucks, face painting, Alabama vs. Auburn Team Challenges, and so much more to benefit WRC! The entire community is welcome and you don’t want to miss this day of celebration! 5 Rivers Animal Ambassadors Meet and Greet

(Free)

Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice” 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice”. www.joejeffersonplayers.com Mainstage Opera Double Feature 2:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 Mainstage Opera Double Feature featuring L’Enfant et les Sortilèges and Hansel & Gretel. www.umobile.edu/academics/alabama-school-arts/ center-for-performing-arts/performing-arts-series/ Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Tom Jones” 2:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Tom Jones” www.mobiletheatreguild.org Ugandan Kids Choir (Free) 6:30 PM Government Street Presbyterian Church, 300 Government Street Mobile, 36602 The children in the Ugandan Kids Choir bring a message of hope—sharing the power of God’s love through traditional music and dance. As they tour the US, they delight audiences with their high-energy performances and infectious joy. www.gspcmobile.org Vince Gill 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 One of the most popular and most recorded singers of the past quarter-century, superstar Vince Gill has become the measure of excellence in country music. His vocal performances are spellbinding, his songwriting emotionally powerful and his guitar-playing world-class. Gill, along with his top-notch band, will perform at the Mobile Saenger Theatre on Sunday, November 4. www.mobilesaenger.com Alabama Pecan Festival 11:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, 36619 This family-oriented festival at the Tillman’s Corner Community Center features a carnival atmosphere with rides, food, face painting, arts and crafts, live music, antique car and tractor show, Azalea City Quilters Guild and more. There is something for everyone. www.alabamapecanfestival.com

Monday November 5

Helping the Homeless (Free) 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Ben May Main Branch, 701 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602 Homeless Agencies Fair. Come meet the staff and organizations that provide assistance and services to the homeless in the Mobile area. They will be sharing information and answering questions to all who stop by their tables. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Mystery Monday (Free) 3:15 PM - 4:30 PM, Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Pkwy B Mobile, 36605 Crafternoon. Explore your

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FamilyCalendar own creativity using a variety of art and craft supplies. Learn how to make your own Dreamcatchers. Refreshments will be served. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org/locations/parkway.php

Tuesday November 6

5 Rivers StoryTime “The Sleepy Owl” (Free) 10:00 AM 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. This week’s story is about a sleepy owl. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Toddlers - Create! Play! Learn! (Free) 10:00 AM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Children Ages 18 Months to 3 Years. Join us for some hands on fun and learning. Wear play clothes because things might get messy! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Preschoolers - Create! Play! Learn! (Free) 11:00 AM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Children Ages 3 to 5 Years. Join us for some hands on fun and learning. Wear play clothes because things might get messy! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Teen Tuesday’s (Free) 4:00 PM West Regional Branch, 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Want a bookmark that will fit every book you read? Join us in the Teen Spot and learn how to make Button Ribbon Bookmarks. Supplies and snacks provided. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org An Evening with Jeanne Robertson “Comedy with Class” 6:30 PM Louise R. Moorer Center for Performing Arts, 1400 University Boulevard Mobile, 36609 You’ve seen her on the internet. Her YouTube clips have been viewed more than 12.5 million times sharing stories like “Don’t Send a Man to the Grocery Store,” and “Don’t Go Rafting Without a Baptist,” and other fun adventures with her husband, “Left Brain!” 251-666-2991 www.stlukesmobile.com USA Wind Ensemble Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/ upcomingevents.html

Wednesday November 7

What’s Up Wednesday (Free) 3:15 PM - 4:30 PM, Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Pkwy B Mobile, 36605 Join us as we explore topics in the technological field, with special focus on electronics and photography, using our Snap Circuits and Kodak cameras. We will also explore the Library systems’ databases, electronic resources, and 3D Printing capabilities. Refreshments will be served. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org/locations/parkway.php Teen Hang Out (Free) 3:30 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Join us in the new Teen Space each week for gaming, journaling, maker projects and all kinds of cool activities! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org St. Paul’s Players present “Clue: On Stage” 7:00 PM St. Paul’s Episcopal School, 161 Dogwood Lane Mobile, 36608 It’s a dark and stormy night, and you’ve been invited to a very unusual dinner party. Each of the guests has an alias, the butler offers a variety of weapons, and the host is, well . . . dead. So whodunnit?

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

Join the iconic oddballs known as Scarlet, Plum, White, Green, Peacock, and Mustard as they race to find the murderer in Boddy Manor before the body count stacks up. Based on the cult classic film and the popular board game, Clue is a madcap comedy that will keep you guessing until the final twist. www.news.stpaulsmobile.net/2018/10/clue-on-stage/

Thursday November 8

Teen Art Scene at the Library (Free) 3:30 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Express Yourself! Want to create and expand your artistic endeavors? Bring your ideas to the Teen Spot. Enjoy the time and space to be creative. Supplies and snacks provided. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Kids Studio (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio at Ben May Main Library! Children, ages 3-10 are invited to explore contemporary art, music, and literature through hands-on and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of art. This class is free, open to the public and lead by professional art educators. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org The Tuskegee Army Nurse Project (Free) 6:00 PM Room 1013, College of Nursing, University of South Alabama, Mobile, 36608 Join us for “The Tuskegee Army Nurse Project”, a talk by Pia Jordan, Project Director of the Tuskegee Army Nurses Project. St. Paul’s Players present “Clue: On Stage” 7:00 PM St. Paul’s Episcopal School, 161 Dogwood Lane Mobile, 36608 It’s a dark and stormy night, and you’ve been invited to a very unusual dinner party. Each of the guests has an alias, the butler offers a variety of weapons, and the host is, well . . . dead. So whodunnit? Join the iconic oddballs known as Scarlet, Plum, White, Green, Peacock, and Mustard as they race to find the murderer in Boddy Manor before the body count stacks up. Based on the cult classic film and the popular board game, Clue is a madcap comedy that will keep you guessing until the final twist. www.news.stpaulsmobile.net/2018/10/clue-on-stage/ Mobile Ballet presents “Ovation” 7:30:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36601 Honoring musical legends such as George Gershwin, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong and more – Mobile Ballet launches its new season in a mix of kinetic energy, exhilarating music and a dynamic fresh production unique to the Mobile stage. More than 30 dancers will join internationally renowned Ballet Master Israel Rodriguez, Eduardo Pi Iglesias and Mobile Ballet Guest Artists. Artistic Director Katia Garza brings fresh choreography to timeless music sure to offer a travel in time… and emotions. 251-342-2241 www.mobileballet.org

Friday November 9

Jazz Under the Oaks 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Anne-Marie Cottage, 453 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Enjoy jazz under the oaks at historic Anne-Marie Cottage to benefit Barton Academy Foundation and its campaign to restore Barton Academy. The historic building will be converted into the Barton Academy for Advanced World Studies, an academically challenging middle school in the heart of downtown. 251-434-8498 www.bartonacademy.org

LoDA Artwalk - Arts Giving 6:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, 36602 Take a stroll through Lower Dauphin Art District (LoDa) and enjoy the night’s Lucky Walk edition of ArtWalk! Enjoy the sights and sounds of the arts along with delicious food and beverages from our local restaurants and bars. For the November Artwalk, please bring canned goods for are food banks. www.ncsmobile.org Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice”. www.joejeffersonplayers.com Theatre USA presents Sense and Sensibility

(General Public – $16, Faculty/Staff/Senior/Alumni/Military – $14, USA Students – $12)

Saturday November 10

Marsh Madness 6:00 AM BlueGill Restaurant on the Causeway, 3775 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort, 36527 SFEEF presents the 4th Annual Marsh Madness Fall Fishing Tournament at Bluegill Restaurant on the Causeway. www.sfeef.com Fall Market in the Park 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Cathedral Square , 300 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 The City of Mobile’s Certified Alabama Farmers Market has a new logo & new name-Market in the Park. The Fall Market is in Cathedral Square, with not only the vendors you’ve come to love, but with new vendors as well! Now you have more locally-produced, locally-made items to choose from. www.ncsmobile.org Veterans Day Cleanup 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Tillman’s Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile Registration at 8am with cleanup starting shortly after then we will enjoy a lite lunch. St Francis Episcopal Church Fall Bazaar 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 401 Key Street Dauphin Island, 36528 You’ll definitely want to be there for the fun, food, fellowship and finds! As usual, the entire porch area will be filled with a large variety of items for sale and a Silent Auction will offer dozens of unique gift ideas for that special someone. A delicious array of foods will also be available including baked goods, casseroles, gumbo, homemade pickles (yum, yum!), soups and (of course) Wimberley Hory’s Famous Chicken Salad! 251-861-2300 5 Rivers on the Road—Meaher State Park (Free) 9:30 AM Meaher State Park, 5200 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort, 36527 Join our staff at Meaher State Park, located on the causeway for an up close encounter and information concerning our native reptiles at 9:30am. After, explore the beautiful Meaher State Park! 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

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FamilyCalendar Brunch Fest 10:00 AM Bienville Square, Mobile, 36602 Join us for a day of great brunch foods, live jazz music, Bloody Mary’s & Mimosas! The event will be held in beautiful Downtown Mobile at Bienville Square. This fundraiser will benefit Lifelines Counseling Services and its many programs. Local restaurants will be cooking some delicious brunch food items for you to taste. www.eventbrite.com Kids Studio ($5 or free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with hands-on projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Age 3-10 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org 4th Annual Gears and Beers 5:30 PM The Fort of Colonial Mobile, 150 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 Gears and Beers is a fundraiser that benefits the Delta Bike Project in Mobile, Alabama. We host a 8.1-mile Beignet Buster, a 30-mile Swamp Romp, a 63-mile Mystic Metric, and the Bayou 100 Century. The Bayou 100 is part of the Alabama Backroads Century Series. www.racesonline.com/events/gearsandbeers St. Paul’s Players present “Clue: On Stage” 7:00 PM St. Paul’s Episcopal School, 161 Dogwood Lane Mobile, 36608 It’s a dark and stormy night, and you’ve been invited to a very unusual dinner party. Each of the guests has an alias, the butler offers a variety of weapons, and the host is, well . . . dead. So whodunnit? Join the iconic oddballs known as Scarlet, Plum, White, Green, Peacock, and Mustard as they race to find the murderer in Boddy Manor before the body count stacks up. Based on the cult classic film and the popular board game, Clue is a madcap comedy that will keep you guessing until the final twist. www.news.stpaulsmobile.net/2018/10/clue-on-stage/ Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice”. www.joejeffersonplayers.com Theatre USA presents Sense and Sensibility

(General Public – $16, Faculty/Staff/Senior/Alumni/Military – $14, USA Students – $12)

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Veterans Day commemoration and Armistice Centennial (Free) 10:30 AM USS Battleship Memorial Parkway, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602 Battleship Memorial Park will take part in a nationwide Veterans Day commemoration and Armistice Centennial as we remember WWI, the War to End All Wars. Join us on the Fantail of the USS ALABAMA as we pay tribute to those who fought in WWI. At 11:00 a.m. we will ring the ship’s bells as part of the Bells of Peace. DIVA Veterans Day Ceremony 11:00 AM Water Tower, Dauphin Island, 36528 DIVA Veterans Day Ceremony. Join members of the DI Veterans Association on Sunday, November 11 at 11:00am at Water Tower Plaza for the annual Veterans Day Ceremony. www.townofdauphinisland.org Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice” 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice”. www.joejeffersonplayers.com Bourbon by the Bay 3:00 PM Gulfquest, 155 S Water Street Mobile, 36602 Raise your glass at the second annual Bourbon on the Bay, where you can sample from twenty-five premium bourbons and whiskeys while overlooking Mobile River and the Port of Mobile. The event will also feature heavy hors d’oeuvres, a selection of wine and local brews, a silent auction and live music. www.gulfquest.org St. Paul’s Players present “Clue: On Stage” 2:00 PM St. Paul’s Episcopal School, 161 Dogwood Lane Mobile, 36608 It’s a dark and stormy night, and you’ve been invited to a very unusual dinner party. Each of the guests has an alias, the butler offers a variety of weapons, and the host is, well . . . dead. So whodunnit? Join the iconic oddballs known as Scarlet, Plum, White, Green, Peacock, and Mustard as they race to find the murderer in Boddy Manor before the body count stacks up. Based on the cult classic film and the popular board game, Clue is a madcap comedy that will keep you guessing until the final twist. www.news.stpaulsmobile.net/2018/10/clue-on-stage/ Theatre USA presents Sense and Sensibility

(General Public – $16, Faculty/Staff/Senior/Alumni/Military – $14, USA Students – $12)

2:00 PM Theatre USA, 5751 USA Drive Mobile, 36608 This fast-paced and playful script follows the fortunes (and misfortunes) of the Dashwood sisters—sensible Elinor and hypersensitive Marianne—after their father’s sudden death leaves them financially destitute and socially vulnerable in gossipy late 18th-century England. 251-460-6306 www.southalabama.edu/theatre

Sunday Matinee: The Life of Birds- Mastery of Flight (Free) 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 For all their grace and agility, birds face serious challenges in getting in to the air, staying there, and landing safely. Among their many adaptations is the single weight-saving feature that only

Monday November 12

Veteran’s Day Riding Camp 9:00 AM Silver Lining Farm/Mimi C. Peters Riding School 10727 Elnina Drive Mobile, 36608 Campers ages 5-15 yrs old. All levels of riding, beginners, intermediate and advanced. Come learn how to ride! We play games on horseback, jump, dressage, learn about equine health, feed, grooming, anatomy, etc.. 251-634-1229 www.silverliningfarm.net Mobile Bay Area Veterans Day Parade (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Downtown Mobile, Mobile, 36602 Everyone is invited to “Come out and enjoy the Mobile Bay Area Veterans Day Parade as it winds through the streets of downtown Mobile. Celebrate our Patriot of the Year and Veteran of the Year. ROTC drills, marching bands, special guests, military vehicles and more.” Veteran’s Day Celebration and Parade of Flags

(Free) 3:00 PM USS Battleship Memorial Parkway, 2703

Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602 Battleship Memorial Park and the 4th graders from Mobile and Baldwin county celebrate Veterans Day and our veterans. Enjoy patriotic music, guest speaker Distinguished Young Woman of America 2018, and more. Veterans Day Essay Winners will present their winning essays.

Mobile Pop’s Concert (Free) 7:00 PM USS Battleship Memorial Parkway, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602 Mobile Pops Concert.

Tuesday November 13

NEST of Mobile Annual Luncheon 12:00 PM Spring Hill College Byrne Hall, Mobile, 36608 Join us for the 2018 NEST of Mobile Annual Luncheon to celebrate the progress we are making in our mission to serve the needs of at-risk youth and families in Mobile. 251-604-3131 Reading PAWS (Free) 3:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Meet, Greet & Read! Come meet the Pet Therapy dogs and their owners. Learn all about the dogs and the services they provide the community. Practice your reading skills with a four-legged friend. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Family Bingo Night (Free) 6:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Calling All Families! Come play Bingo at the Library! Prizes will be awarded and lemonade and popcorn will be served. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org St. Mary Parish Called to Life in Love: An Evening for Married Couples ($25) 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, St. Mary Sisters of Mercy Building, 106 Providence Street Mobile, 36604 A delightful evening to include a guest speaker, a wonderful meal, dessert and discourse! RSVP to to Laurel Wallace at lwallace@ stmarymobile.org.

Wednesday November 14

The Band Of Heathens at The Steeple 7:00 PM The Steeple, 251 St. Francis Street Mobile, 36602 The Band Of Heathens at The Steeple. 251-415-4641 www.thesteeplemobile.com

Battleship 12K 8:00 AM Spanish Fort Town Center, 26000 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, 36527 A patriotic run to honor those who serve. www.battleship12k.com

birds possess-feather 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Learning Lunch (Free) 12:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 This series allows guests to enjoy free presentations on a wide range of historical and cultural topics. Bring your lunch and enjoy complimentary beverages. www.historymuseumofmobile.com What’s Up Wednesday (Free) 3:15 PM - 4:30 PM, Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Pkwy B Mobile, 36605 Explore your own creativity

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FamilyCalendar

using a variety of art and craft supplies. Everyone will create their own Thankful Tree. Refreshments will be served. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org/locations/parkway.php

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Teen Hang Out (Free) 3:30 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Join us in the new Teen Space each week for gaming, journaling, maker projects and all kinds of cool activities! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday November 15

Mobile ARC Open House (Free) 10:30 AM Fred Delchamps Center, 2401 Gordon Smith Drive Mobile, 36617 Visitors can learn more about Mobile ARC, a non-profit that provides services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Craft Day with Mr. Butch (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Join Mr. Butch as we make Coffee Filter Turkeys. Ages 5 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Celebrate Hope 6:00 PM USA Mitchell Cancer Institute, 1660 Springhill Avenue Mobile, 36604 Celebrate Hope is the signature gala for USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. Held the Thursday before Thanksgiving each year, the event features dishes by local chefs paired with wine and craft beer, as well as live entertainment. Since its inception, Celebrate Hope has generated millions of dollars for cancer research technology. www.usahealthsystem.com/celebratehope Los Lonely Boys w/ The Red Clay Strays 6:30 PM The Steeple, 251 St. Francis Street Mobile, 36602 Los Lonely Boys w/ The Red Clay Strays. 251-415-4641 www.thesteeplemobile.com Theatre USA presents Sense and Sensibility

(General Public – $16, Faculty/Staff/Senior/Alumni/Military – $14, USA Students – $12)

7:30 PM Theatre USA, 5751 USA Drive Mobile, 36608 This fast-paced and playful script follows the fortunes (and misfortunes) of the Dashwood sisters—sensible Elinor and hypersensitive Marianne—after their father’s sudden death leaves them financially destitute and socially vulnerable in gossipy late 18th-century England. 251-460-6306 www.southalabama.edu/theatre USA Flute Choir and Celtic Crúe Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 USA Flute Choir and Celtic Crúe Fall Concert 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/ upcomingevents.html Food Drive Tillman’s Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, 36619 SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a “Show your Colors Food Drive” at the Chamber location, so pick a team, donate canned goods and see who really has the best fans. Either way this is a win for the community. Turn in all canned food items by November 15th. www.swmcchamber.com

Friday November 16

Art Soup ($25) 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Azalea Manor, 751 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36602 Loaves and Fish Community Ministries Inc., a 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation com-

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

mitted to serving the needs of the homeless in Mobile since 1979, will host its annual fundraiser at Azalea Manor.This will be a fun night, with music, entertainment, soup, dessert, non-alcoholic drinks and art. www.artsoupmobile.org Drama Camp Productions and Sunnyside Theater present “Mamma Mia” 7:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Drama Camp Productions and Sunnyside Theater present “Mamma Mia” on November 16-18. www.sunnysidedrama.com Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice”. www.joejeffersonplayers.com Theatre USA presents Sense and Sensibility

(General Public – $16, Faculty/Staff/Senior/Alumni/Military – $14, USA Students – $12)

Saturday November 17

Fall Market in the Park 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Cathedral Square , 300 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 The City of Mobile’s Certified Alabama Farmers Market has a new logo & new name-Market in the Park. The Fall Market is in Cathedral Square, with not only the vendors you’ve come to love, but with new vendors as well! Now you have more locally-produced, locally-made items to choose from. www.ncsmobile.org 2nd Annual BB Gun Turkey Shoot and Family Fun Day 9:00 AM 1507 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 The 2nd Annual BB Gun Turkey Shoot and Family Fun Day will take place at 516 1507 Bienville Boulevard next to Waves. The fundraiser will benefit Dauphin Island Elementary School students’ field trip to the State Capitol. Family Farm Day 2018 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Humming Star Alpacas, 19700 Blueberry Lane Silverhill, 36576 A day to meet and learn about the alpacas, see demonstrations of spinning-weaving and other fiber arts. Shop our farm store and shop with our local artists/craftsman. Eat a scrumptious lunch provided by Chef Will Hughes. Time: 10:00am-4:00pm. www.hummingstaralpacas.com Mobile International Festival 10:00 AM The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, 36608 The festival provides the ambiance of world travel, and it gives the opportunity to meet people from over 70 countries face-to-face, a change to speak different languages, sample some delicious food, learn geography, history, art, social studies, music, science, and above all be inspired by our beautiful world and its people. www.mobileinternationalfestival.org

Mobile Renaissance and Pirate Festival 10:00 AM 30569 Eagle Lane Robertsdale, 36567 Celebrating the history and heritage of Medieval Europe as well as the 16th-century Gulf Coast.The Mobile Renaissance Fair is celebrated as a fun and learning experience of the middle ages. It is a time when young and old dress up as renaissance characters (not required) and head out for a an exciting weekend full of history, music, food, arts, crafts, and games. www.gcrf.us Kids Studio ($5 or free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with hands-on projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Age 3-10 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org Open Sketch at 5 Rivers (Free) 1:00 PM 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Bring your drawing materials, sign in at the front desk, and explore the beautiful facility and landscape! We will post photos everyone’s sketches on the Mobile Urban Sketchers page concluding the event. If you plan to attend, please RSVP to Lucy Gafford at lgafford@ mobilearts.org by November 3rd. Thanksgiving Storytime & Craft (Free) 2:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Come enjoy a Thanksgiving themed storytime and make a Thanksgiving centerpiece! All ages. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Drama Camp Productions and Sunnyside Theater present “Mamma Mia” 7:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Drama Camp Productions and Sunnyside Theater present “Mamma Mia” on November 16-18. www.sunnysidedrama.com

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Mobile Symphony Orchestra Presents Beethoven and Blue Jeans (We offer FREE tickets to all of regular

season concerts to students K-12 with a paying adult through our Big Red Ticket program. )

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Mobile Symphony Orchestra Presents Beethoven and Blue Jeans. www.mobilesaenger.com

WWII Living History Day Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Blvd Mobile, 36528 Come and experience a day in the life of a WWII soldier. The soldiers will be doing drills throughout the day; there will be authentic camping and blacksmithing in the original blacksmith shop. www.dauphinisland.org/event/wwii-living-history-event-2

Sunday November 18

Mobile Renaissance and Pirate Festival 10:00 AM 30569 Eagle Lane Robertsdale, 36567 Celebrating the history and heritage of Medieval Europe as

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FamilyCalendar well as the 16th-century Gulf Coast.The Mobile Renaissance Fair is celebrated as a fun and learning experience of the middle ages. It is a time when young and old dress up as renaissance characters (not required) and head out for a an exciting weekend full of history, music, food, arts, crafts, and games. www.gcrf.us 5 Rivers Animal Ambassadors Meet and Greet

(Free)

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Alabama has one of the highest plant and animal diversities in the United States. Join a member of our human educational staff and meet one of the local critter inhabitants from the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and beyond. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Drama Camp Productions and Sunnyside Theater present “Mamma Mia” 2:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, 36604 Drama Camp Productions and Sunnyside Theater present “Mamma Mia” on November 16-18. www.sunnysidedrama.com Mobile Symphony Orchestra Presents Beethoven and Blue Jeans (We offer FREE tickets to all of regular

season concerts to students K-12 with a paying adult through our Big Red Ticket program. )

2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Mobile Symphony Orchestra Presents Beethoven and Blue Jeans. www.mobilesaenger.com

USA Opera Theatre presents “Scenes from Opera and Musical Theatre” 3:00 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 USA Opera Theatre presents “Scenes from Opera and Musical Theatre”. 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/ upcomingevents.html Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “Othello The Moor Of Venice”. www.joejeffersonplayers.com Thanks for Giving 2 Mile Run Walk 7:30 PM Providence Hospital, Building B, Mobile, 36608 Please bring canned food, gently used shoes and unused race shirts to donate to the Waterfront Mission. www.eventbrite.com/e/thanks-for-giving-2-miler-registration-50204052673

Monday November 19

USA Symphony Band Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 USA Symphony Band Fall Concert 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/ upcomingevents.html

Tuesday November 20

Teen Tuesday’s (Free) 4:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Washi Tape Bookmarks. Personalize your bookmarks. Join us in the Teen Spot and learn how to create Washi Tape Bookmarks. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Kris Kristofferson & The Strangers 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Kris Kristofferson & The Strangers concert. www.mobilesaenger.com

Wednesday November 21

Wednesday November 28

Saturday November 24

Thursday November 29

Sunday November 25

Ghost Concert 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Ghost, a Grammy Award-winning heavy metal/rock band from Sweden formed in 2008, will perform at the Saenger. www.mobilesaenger.com

Hargrove Foundation - 4th Annual Foundation Gala 7:00 PM Battlehouse Hotel, 26 North Royal Street Mobile, 36602 The Hargrove Foundation will host the foundation’s fourth gala, an annual fundraising event that celebrates the organization’s support of education and humanitarian programs. www.hargrovefoundation.org/2018gala

Bread and Puppet Theater 6:00 PM Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Sunday night at Alabama Contemporary Art Center, join us for a raucous and colorful, funny and poignant show featuring paper maché puppets driven by a hot brass band. mobilemuseumofart.wufoo.com/forms/bread-andpuppet-theater

Tuesday December 4

World Famous Harlem Globetrotters 7:00 PM University of South Alabama Mitchell Center

Sunday Matinee: “Bee Movie” (Free) 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 An ambitious young worker bee Barry B. Benson soars out into the world with the high-flying pollen jocks in search of nectar and adventure. When he breaks one of the cardinal rules of beedom and speaks to humans, Barry sets of an un-bee-lievable chain of events that proves even a little bee can make a big difference! 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-riversalabama-delta-resource-center

Tuesday November 27

Reading PAWS (Free) 3:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Meet, Greet & Read! Come meet the Pet Therapy dogs and their owners. Learn all about the dogs and the services they provide the community. Practice your reading skills with a four-legged friend. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org The 2018 BIG Event 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM, The Battle House Hotel, 26 North Royal Street Mobile, 36602 Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama’s 2018 BIG Event will feature John O’Leary on Tuesday, November 27th at The Battle House Hotel. It’s guaranteed to be one of the most inspiring nights in BIG Event history. You’ll be set on fire with passion, purpose and unrelenting joy. 251-344-0536 USA Woodwind Ensembles Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 USA Woodwind Ensembles Fall Concert 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/ upcomingevents.html

5950 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36608 On the heels of taking their unparalleled entertainment to capacity crowds overseas, the Harlem Globetrotters will return to North America with their one-of-a-kind show at the Mitchell Center. www.ticketing.axs.com

Classes/Meetings APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, 445 Azalea Road. Parent, Youth/Teen Group and Childcare Is Provided. Topic Discussions & ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information please call 251-4602727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@childrensaid.org. Autism Support Group in North Mobile We have a social play room for higher functioning children (4 and up) to engage and relate. The idea is to have a safe place for parents of Autistic children in our community to link up and network with other families. 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 6 - 7:30 p.m.,

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Support Groups & Classes Saraland United Methodist Church, 415 McKeough Ave., Saraland. For more info or to RSVP contact Chris Gibson. Email Chrisgibson4149@gmail.com, or 251281-7312. Breast Feeding Friendly Group (The BFF Group) A place where new moms can get one-on-one

but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. See daily listings for class topics. *Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 weeks. *Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (Four things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. *Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks.251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center classes. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. www.familycentermobile.org or www. Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile. La Leche League Mobile Bay Area Breastfeeding support meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Meetings are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader. 251-6892085, amandaLLLmobile@yahoo. com, meghanLLL@yahoo.com, or michelleLLLmobile@yahoo.com. Facebook: La Leche League Mobile Bay Area.

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 251610-5264. Please RSVP if you plan to attend. Circle Of Hope, Sexual Assault Support Group Group meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Call Lifelines Counseling Services to schedule a 30 minute appointment before attending the group 251431-5100. COH is a support group for victims of sexual violence to share in their struggles and learn ways to begin to cope with the pain and daily stressors that trigger the hurt. This group is free to attend. Call for times and locations. The Family Center The Family Center’s classes in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH minimum 24HOUR RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. All classes provide a certificate of completion. The Family Center of Mobile *Nurturing Parenting course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:3011:30 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.,

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

Survivors of Suicide Support Group Meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lifelines Counseling Services, 705 Oak Circle Drive, Mobile. SOS is here to provide a supportive and judgement-free environment for you to express yourself and share your story. What can you expect? •A place to find support •A comfortable environment to express yourself •A judgement free environment •Resources for grieving Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, please call childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000. • Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Pre-registration is required; call 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. • Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Gastric Bypass Support Meets every 2nd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia. Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care. Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital 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 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation: Accelerated Course: One Saturday per month. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The Family Center. Ideal for those who live out of town or will be delivering soon. $25. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings: Noon on the First Sunday of the month. Join us for an individualized tour and instruction for siblings ages 9 and younger. The event includes a tour of the maternity areas and tips on helping parents with the new baby. Parents must remain with their children. By Appointment. Call 340-7769. • Infant CPR: Learn this potentially life-saving technique while you are pregnant or soon after your baby’s birth. Covers infant CPR and choking. $5 if delivering at SMC. 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Family Center (Bldg. 2, Fourth Floor). Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Resolve Through Sharing: For parents who have lost a child before or immediately after birth. Meets the fourth Monday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. Call 460-5323. USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 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.

by Ha frie his frie trie thi tal

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.

Please send your calendar events to lynn@ mobilebayparents.com. www.mobilebayparents.com

Fin

A Page in a Book

A Collection of Books for Young Collectors If you have a kid, you probably have a collector. Most children gather and assemble examples of their

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favorite items as an expression of their interests. The act of collecting things also guides a child’s thinking skills as they learn to classify and group items based on similarities as well as diversity. The ability

to identify distinctions between similar things is another benefit that young collectors gain. Parents

and st:

who have been lectured by a child on the minute (but critically important) differences between various Pokemon or pebbles, can verify this emerging cognitive talent in young collectors. The following titles explore the nature of collecting and the one of a kind thrill that comes along with it.

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Hector the Collector

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by Emily Beeny, Illustrated by Stephanie Graegin (Roaring Brook Press) On the way to school, Hector picked up an acorn from the sidewalk. It was smooth, brown and had a knobby cap. Hector decided to keep it. At recess, he discovered two more acorns, each slightly different from the first. As the days passed, Hector’s collection of acorns grew until it filled his school desk. When his classmates discovered his desk full of acorns, their first response was to laugh. But when the teacher allows Hector to show the differences among his acorns, the kids begin to see similarities with the things that they each collect. A warmly expressed celebration of collecting, both private and public, Hector the Collector is an inspirational read for every child assembling their own collection of favorite things.

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Old Hat

by Emily Gravett (Simon & Schuster) Harbet’s hat was knitted for him by his Nana and it’s been his favorite since he was little. When his friends, wearing the latest style in fruity headgear, mock his old hat, Harbet adds a new fruit cap to his ensemble. By the time he wears it, however, the newest style of chapeau has moved on and his friends are still one step ahead of Harbet’s hat game. His hat collection grows out of control as he tries to keep up with the changing styles. Finally, when Harbet decides to let his head do its own thing, it may be his unique bold style that inspires new collections. A brilliantly illustrated cautionary tale about following fads, Old Hat offers a sweet hat tip to staying loyal to your individual style.

The Word Collector

by Peter H. Reynolds (Orchard Books / Scholastic) Some kids collect rocks, comics, stamps or coins. Jerome collects words. Sometimes the word he collects on a scrap of paper was one he’d seen or heard. Some words were short and sweet, others multi-syllable and melodic. One day, his paper word collection spills out of its organized binders, jumbling the words in unusual combinations. Viewing his favorite words paired in new ways, Jerome discovers new lyricism within his collection that has the power to move and delight others. Featuring Jerome’s word snippets throughout, this powerful title offers readers ample opportunities to explore both new and unfamiliar words, taking delightful side journeys with each new romp through the pages.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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First Man

Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: B+ Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A The story starts with a family. Sarah and Sonny Quinn (Madison Iseman and Jeremy Ray Taylor) live with their mom, Kathy (Wendi McLendon-Covey), in a sleepy town in New York. Sonny and his best friend Sam (Caleel Harris) run a junk business and they are hired to clean out a dilapidated house with the promise they can keep whatever they find as payment. The boys discover a secret room with a chest and a locked book inside. After they open it a strange ventriloquist dummy, Slappy, appears. Then the fun really begins. Slappy does his best to befriend the boys and Sarah, helping them as much as he can with his magical powers. But he soon becomes controlling, demanding, and even violent in his efforts to become part of the Quinn family. The kids try to get rid of Slappy, but this only makes him angrier and determined to seek revenge against them. To this end Slappy combines his powers with the local Tesla plant to make all of Halloween come to life - the decorations, the costumes, even the candy. Some of it’s adorable, and some of it’s a little spooky as we see pumpkins, gnomes, scarecrows, a headless horseman, and gummy bears as living creatures. I do mean that it’s spooky for children - I was fine. In what becomes a relatively predictable climax and denouement we see the Quinn siblings and Sam fight off and defeat the Halloween monsters and save each other and their town. This is a nice introduction into the horror genre for kids. There were spooky, suspenseful moments, and lots of creepy editing and music, but nothing that older children couldn’t handle. But for younger or sensitive children (which mine are both) I’d probably save this one for a few years.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: A Violence: BSexual Content: AProfanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: B In 1962, Neil Armstrong (Ryan Gosling) reads an unusual job posting: NASA, the United States’ fledgling space program, is looking for astronauts. With their counterparts in the Soviet Union making enormous progress, it’s time for the USA to get serious if they intend to beat the Russians to the ultimate goal-- landing a man on the moon. For Neil, the opportunity comes at the perfect time. Shattered after losing a two-year-old daughter to cancer, this quiet and intensely private man is struggling to maintain emotional calm in front of his concerned wife Janet (Claire Foy) and their remaining children. A change of scenery and the challenge of a new workplace offers tempting relief, and Neil accepts an offered position. Already emotionally distant, Neil’s reluctance to share his experiences with Janet pushes their marriage to its limits. Things reach a breaking point when Neil is selected to lead a team of astronauts on the Apollo 11 mission-- if he succeeds, he’ll accomplish one of the most extraordinary feats in human history. If he fails, there’s no possibility of rescue. We may know how this story’s going to end, but what we seldom think about in a society saturated with touch screens and pocket-sized computers, is how it must have felt to not know. The film portrays this uncertainty with sincerity and emotion-- we see the terrible price exacted on the astronauts and their families as they risk everything. Some of these moments are disturbing; all are powerful, and they offer a fitting tribute to those whose lives were forever changed (or lost) in the name of scientific progress. Although we’ll never know exactly what Neil thought and felt at the moment he made history, First Man offers tender and thought-provoking access to his experience.

Little Women

Venom MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: CSexual Content: B Profanity: DAlcohol / Drug Use: B+ “The world has enough heroes.” The official tagline for Venom should tell you most of what you need to know about the latest, highly mediocre offering from the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Really leaning into the white male anti-hero, and even taking it to new heights, the film follows Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy) on an incredible journey from a career in journalism to unemployment and then back to journalism – but this time he’s host to an alien parasite. The parasite, which is known as a symbiote (I would call it a monster), gives him superpowers but is threatening to eat him about half the time. As incredible as all that sounds, it’s minor compared to the journey that the monster, named Venom, goes on. That one goes something like this: “I’ve come to destroy Earth. No, wait - I think I’ll save it and betray my species instead.” Venom feels like it is consciously trying to move the superhero genre beyond Marvel’s usual clean do-goodery. Pushing the PG-13 rating as far as it can go, the movie has over two dozen instances of profanity, including scatological curses, names of deity, and one sexual expletive. Violence is probably an even bigger concern for parents: it is difficult to overstate the disturbing and gruesome nature of the many violent scenes. Probably not appropriate for younger teens, mid to older teens might enjoy this scarier, edgier, anti-hero. I would be hard pressed to find some real uplifting moments in the film. It does explore what is ethical in the pursuit of truth or science, especially when that imperils others. The highlight of the film is Tom Hardy’s performance.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: ASexual Content: AProfanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: B A tale as old as time, or as old as 1868, this remake of a movie that was a remake of an old book strives to bring the March sisters and their charming story to life in the modern era. An era, we expect, that should dramatically change the plot of the original (cell phones, teenage partying, and antibiotics for example). But despite this, the film remains relatively faithful to the original plot. We follow the March sisters, Jo (Sarah Davenport), Beth (Allie Jennings), Meg (Melanie Stone), and Amy (Elsie Jones/Taylor Murphy) throughout their adolescence and adulthood, often jumping between past and present. An updated plot has Beth plagued by lymphoma as opposed to scarlet fever, and Jo shaves her hair as a sign of solidarity as opposed to selling it as she does in the original. A Little Women for the modern age. The main goal of the film is to see each of the sisters reach their “castle” - a reference to literal castles their mother, Marmee (Lea Thompson), made for them as children that articulated their perfect futures. We watch the sisters struggle to reach their own goals, and endeavour to understand and support each other attaining their own castles. Along the way they encounter social pressures, love lost, love found, disappointment and even death. This version does not do justice either to the original book or the 1994 film adaptation. However, the cast do their best to take these well known and loved characters and bring them to life with as much authenticity as the script allows. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2018

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8 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE A LEAD-SAFE CERTIFIED

RENOVATION CONTRACTOR:

TO HELP

PREVENT:

1. Learning disabilities 2. Behavior issues 3. Diminished motor skills 4. Lower intelligence

Using a lead-safe certified renovation contractor is the law. Home repairs that create even a small amount of lead dust are enough to poison your child and put your family at risk. Make sure you renovate right with a contractor that is Lead-Safe Certified.

5. Hearing loss 6. Brain damage 7. Memory loss 8. Headaches

For more information, visit alabamapublichealth.gov/lead or call 1-800-819-7544

ALLREMAI NI NG

2018TOYOTAS

M USTGO!

Pal mer s T oy ot a. c om 470Sc hi l l i ngerRoadSout h, Mobi l e, AL36695

251 . 639. 0800