Mobile Bay Parents November 2022 by KeepSharing

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November2022 4

Volume 12 Number 8

Columns 2 Publisher’s Note

Meeting Kids Where They Are

When your efforts to help may hurt.

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Teach Kids Gratitude

10 science-backed benefits and fun ideas on how to get started.

4 Kids Say the Wisest Things Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

9 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

27 Tweens, Teens and Screens Kristi Bush, LSW

Holiday Happenings

Our listing has details for cranking up holiday fun this month.

Holiday Shopping Tips Ideas for making the most of Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and beyond!

Departments 5 Bits and Pieces

On The Cover Price (4), son of Johnny and Victoria Williams and grandson to Patrick and Thania Webb, and William and Claudette Williams. Price loves playing outside, drawing, Legos, and puzzles.

10 School Bits 40 Family Calendar 44 Movie Reviews

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FromthePublisher

Mobile Bay Mobile Bay’s Foremost Parenting Source

Ask any young child what they want to be when they grow up, and there is no telling what fun and exciting future they have envisioned for themselves. They could say a lion tamer, movie star, or even President! For 2nd grade me, it was Miss America. I eventually realized that while being Miss America would be amazing, it was not really a career. Plus, I was probably better suited for something else, like architecture... or so I thought. Fast forward many years and a few different careers, and here I sit, happy as a lark, publishing a magazine. Never in my wildest dreams as a young adult did I imagine this would be the perfect career for me. It took a lot of twists and turns to get to this point, but I have learned that sometimes what may seem like a roadblock may be a detour to getting you on your destined path. The older I get, that concept is much easier to grasp. That’s why we say hindsight is 20/20. Unfortunately, as we hit those roadblocks, it may feel like a dead end. In those times, some well-intentioned friend will inevitably tell you how it could be worse or to “count your blessings.” Although you may be inclined to roll your eyes, counting your blessings may be just what you need. It sounds cliché, but when we take a moment to look around and try to focus on the positive, no matter how hard it is to find or how insignificant it may seem, it can be a beneficial step in changing our entire perspective. Not only should we, as adults, focus on the blessings that surround us, but we should encourage this habit in our children too. A positive outlook and a thankful attitude have tremendous benefits beyond what you may think. To find out more, read Sandi Schwartz’s feature 10 Science-Backed Benefits of Practicing Gratitude with Kids. Having an article focused on gratitude is perfect for this Thanksgiving season. Many families have a tradition of sharing what they are thankful for during the holiday meal. Moms and dads will usually say something about health and family, and kids will typically mention family or friends or a pet... you know, the “standard” stuff. But, I wonder, what if we made a rule that you had to say the first thing that came to your mind at that very moment? Unrehearsed? No forethought. Kids may say, “I’m thankful for that chocolate pie over there,” while dads might say, “I’m thankful I can watch the game later.” Moms may say, “I’m thankful I get to go Black Friday shopping with my sisters tomorrow.” Does that seem accurate for your household? While we can’t help with the chocolate pie or football game, we can help with some guidance on the holiday shopping deals. Just flip over to this month’s feature, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Beyond – Hacks to Cash in on Super Holiday Savings, where Kimberly Blaker shares money-saving tips to help you start your holiday shopping. Most of us are thankful each year for the fantastic holiday events happening in our area! Take a look at the Holiday Happenings Guide in this issue to find so many super activities local families can enjoy this season. You will find tree lightings, Santa sightings, and much more! And don’t forget to check out the Family Calendar for even more local events. As we roll into the Thanksgiving season, I want to say how truly grateful I am for all of you from the very bottom of my heart. I am a lucky girl to have the opportunity to work with such an amazing group of people, collaborate with wonderful advertisers, and connect with fantastic readers. Thank you all for your support each and every month. Blessings to you and your family this Thanksgiving season!

Lynn

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@mobilebayparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@mobilebayparents.com Research Editor Lucy Green Contributing Writers Kimberly Blaker Savannah Browning, MD Kristi Bush, LSW Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA Dave Ramsey Sandi Schwartz

Cover Photography Hannah Stinson Photography www.HannahStinsonPhotography.com

President Jason Watson Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton ads@mobilebayparents.com (251) 304-1200 Ad Design Tim Welch Web Content Manager Scott Davis

Visit us at www.mobilebayparents.com Mobile Bay Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 81105, Mobile, Alabama, 36689. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 304-1200. Mobile Bay Parents is copyrighted 2022 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Mobile Bay Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

lynn@mobilebayparents.com

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

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

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avoid, join him in the effort until he feels competent. This bypasses any possible conflict, encourages growth, and strengthens attachment. If your child is older, and begins complaining, always ask her to clarify what she needs. Does she want you to get involved, offer advice, or just listen? Most of the time, older children simply want you to listen. Being silent and sitting with your children when they are in hard places teaches them to pause before reacting. It allows them to rant, hear how silly their thoughts and emotions can be, and it is often all they need to calm down and make a wise choice.

by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

When Efforts to Help Your Child May Actually Hurt Has your child ever approached you for comfort, but your efforts to calm escalated the distress? When this occurs, you are probably displaying a near enemy of what you actually want to portray. Near enemies look like the emotion we are attempting to foster but make the situation worse instead. The near enemy of kindness is conditional love. An example of this would be when your child tries to tell you a story about his day, and you interrupt it to correct his behavior. The opportunity to connect becomes hijacked by his fear of disapproval or punishment. You are responsible for correcting your child’s behavior, but you do not need to do it in the middle of his story. Let’s look at three parenting goals and the near enemies that impede them.

Showing Compassion

The near enemy of compassion is pity. Pity says, “I am so sorry that happened to you.” Compassion says, “I am right here with

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

you, let’s figure out a solution together.” Your children are brokenhearted and upset about things you know are ridiculous, but your pity is patronizing. Take the time to be compassionate. Put yourself in your child’s shoes and remember what it was like when your friend was rude to you or when the teacher ignored you. Your child believes her world is falling apart. A great way to show compassion is by sharing a story of a difficult time in your childhood or reminding her of how she overcame a prior negative experience. Compassion always says, “Me too.”

Increasing Teachability

The near enemy of teachability is a person who already knows everything and has to prove it to everyone. Model to your children that you are growing and learning every day. Share your mistakes and how you rectified them as often as you can. If appropriate, ask your children how they would solve your problem. Whatever you do, make your home a place where mistakes and imperfections are embraced as learning experiences instead of failures. Remember this, write it on a sticky note, and read it daily. Character is caught not taught, so when you model compassion, connection, and teachability, your children will learn how to show this to others inside and outside the home.

Making Connections

The near enemy of connection is control. There are so many times in parenting when you have to be in control; please do so when necessary. However, there are a lot of times when your desire to “fix” the situation prevents you from connecting with your child. If your child is younger than 9, and you ask him to do something that you know he will attempt to

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

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Blue’s Clues & You! Live on Stage

Blue’s Clues & You! Live on Stage is an epic new adventure coming to the Mobile Saenger Theatre on November 30. Josh is conjuring up a magical theater show, but he needs YOUR help! Kids and families will fall in love with theater as they solve Blue’s Clues to find out what Josh needs to make a show. With Broadway-style song and dance, this production pulls out all the stops! Tickets can be purchased online at https:// bit.ly/bluesclues22. Purchase in person at the Saenger Theatre Box Office or the Mobile Civic Center Box Office. For information regarding accessible seating tickets, call 251-208-7381. The historic Saenger Theatre building is not elevator equipped. The Blue’s Clues & You! Live On Stage Photo Experience is a post-show exclusive, unique opportunity for fans to get a special photo with Josh, Blue, and friends. Guests will have an opportunity to visit with Josh and Blue on a one-of-a-kind set piece, converse with their favorite character, and pose for a special photo! *For the safety of all guests and performers, no touching or hugging will be permitted.* Admission to the performance is not included in the Photo Experience ticket. Children age 12 and under must be accompanied by a Parent/Guardian. Each Child, Parent or Guardian must have a show ticket as well as a Photo Experience ticket to attend.

Leap & Learn Cards Provide Access to Education Resources

Did you know early learning & care increase high school graduation rates by 14 percent? When a child enters kindergarten ready for school there is an 82 percent chance that the child will master basic skills by age 11. In an effort to give every child the opportunity to be ready for kindergarten, MCHD Family Health’s, Melissa Creighton, along with other members of the Education Team, developed the Leap and Learn program. The Leap & Learn program will educate parents and care providers on programs, resources, and networks available to ensure early intervention of children’s developmental concerns. The Leap & Learn program works along with the United Way of Southwest Alabama’s 2-1-1 phone service. 2-1-1 connects residents with information about health and human services in eight local counties. For more information, scan the QR code with your photo app or call 2-1-1.

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Publix Battleship 12K

6th Annual Trees for Hope

The Publix Battleship 12K is a patriotic run to honor those who have served. This Veterans Day tradition starts on the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay and finishes at the USS Alabama. The 7th Annual running will be November 13, 2022. The event has partnerships with many veteran-focused non-profits and charities who provide valuable services to the men and women who have bravely served our country. Please visit www.battleship12k.com to register.

The community is invited to the 6th Annual Trees for Hope, November 8, 2022 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm at Dauphin Way Baptist Church. Trees for Hope is a festive evening with heavy hors d’oeuvres, fine coffees, desserts, and the opportunity to browse dozens of beautifully decorated trees and wreaths, ranging from the elegant to the whimsical, that will be up for grabs to the highest bidder. Along with the Trees for Hope silent auction, we invite you to partake in the live auction too, where you can bid on additional high-value items and/or experiences. The Trees for Hope organization is also providing an opportunity to learn firsthand about Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries (ABCH) and the guiding role they play in our community. To purchase tickets, visit https:// treesforhopeevent.org/mobile.

Iron Bowl Legends Benefit Gala

The Palmer Williams Group is hosting its Sixth Annual Iron Bowl Legends Benefit Gala with Special Guest Speaker Joey Jones, on November 21st, 2022, at the Battle House Hotel. The purpose of this event is to raise funds to support our efforts in offering free youth entrepreneurship programs within the Mobile and Baldwin County Public School system. Palmer Williams Group (PWG) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by David Palmer and Sherman Williams, former University of Alabama and NFL football players. The organization was created to provide youth development programs to assist and guide disadvantaged youth to overcome interpersonal obstacles, embrace family values, education and avoid life’s pitfalls. The Gala begins at 6:00 p.m. Please visit https://bit.ly/3Blych7 for tickets.

Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza

Dress up and join the party with “Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza” coming to the Mobile Saenger Theatre on November 27th. The all-new show features the first appearance of characters from “Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends” in addition to Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Doc McStuffins, the Puppy Dog Pals, and Alice from Disney Junior’s newest hit series “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery,” live on stage. The immersive, interactive concert experience includes singing, dancing, acrobatics and 3D special effects. Tickets can be purchased online at https://bit.ly/disneyjrmobile. Purchase in person at the Saenger Theatre Box Office (6 South Joachim Street) or the Mobile Civic Center Box Office (401 Civic Center Drive). For information regarding accessible seating tickets, call 251-208-7381.

City of Mobile Lighting of the Tree

Join the City of Mobile on November 18, 2022 at Mardi Gras Park for a night of cheer as we light up the night and celebrate the start of the holiday season! This is free family-friendly event that will include a Live DJ, Holiday Princesses, Photo Opportunities, Santa Claus, and so much more! Check out the line-up: 5:30PM: Mobile Ballet Performance, 6PM: Santa Arrives, 6:30PM: Tree Lighting with Mayor Sandy Stimpson and 7PM: Music by The Vocalitas. Bring your family and friends for a Mobile tradition that is sure to make memories! Visit us online at www.mobileparksandrec.org for more information or to check out our holly jolly events! Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

Toys for Tots Motorcycle Ride

USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park will be the host site for the 2022 Toys for Tots Motorcycle Ride scheduled on Saturday, November 5. The motorcycle ride will kick-off the holiday toy drive season for the Mobile area. Registration for the ride begins at 10:00 a.m. in the picnic area of the park. Registration is $10 a person and a new and unwrapped toy. The ride will pull out of the park at 12:00 p.m. and continue with a ride through the streets of Mobile, ending with lunch at American Legion Post 250 in Theodore. Lunch is $5 per person. For more information on the Toys for Tots Motorcycle Ride, please call Chow Hound at 251-402-9147. 6

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Rapahope’s Turkey Trot for Hope

Children’s of Alabama Boots & BBQ Barn Bash

Run the Turkey Trot for Hope certified 5k or 1 mile Gobble Wobble with us on Thanksgiving Day in Mobile, Alabama! Your registration supports Rapahope, a non-profit organization that offers free year-round programming, for families battling childhood cancer. Our goal is to help children with cancer have life-changing camp experiences filled with as many amazing moments as possible. Our programs are possible through the generosity of sponsors, volunteers, and fundraisers like the Turkey Trot for Hope. Please visit https://www.rapahope.org/ for more information.

Holiday Cheer at the FIVE

Holiday Cheer at the Five, to benefit the Child Advocacy Center, will be held on Monday, December 5th from 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. The FIVE Restaurant will host the event at 609 Dauphin Street in downtown Mobile. General Insulation is the title sponsor of this event. The event will feature samplings of The FIVE’s signature dishes and wines to taste, along with a live auction of holiday gifts and live music by Jerry Squires. Tickets will be available at the FIVE and the CAC for $35 each. Call 251-432-1101.

Children’s of Alabama’s ninth annual Boots & BBQ Barn Bash kicks off on Sunday, November 6, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. to benefit the Children’s of Alabama Pediatric Rheumatology Clinic in Mobile. Guests are invited to enjoy an evening of live music and dinner provided by Moe’s Original BBQ located at 701 Springhill Avenue. Proceeds from the Boots & BBQ Barn Bash will provide funding for pediatric rheumatologist Dr. Melissa Mannion to hold clinic in Mobile to treat the many children along the Gulf Coast suffering from autoimmune disorders such as pediatric rheumatoid arthritis. For sponsorship information, please contact Kerrie Benson, the Gulf Coast coordinator for Children’s of Alabama, at Kerrie.Benson@ childrensal.org or 251-610-4969. Admission is $40 per person and includes a bbq dinner and two drinks. To register online, visit give.childrensal.org/barnbash. Further updates can also be found on the event’s Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/BootsBBQBarnBash?fref=ts.

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Field Classes available for all grades. 102 Bienville Blvd. Dauphin Island, Alabama 36528

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K 59 Years of Cascading Chrysanthemums

Bellingrath Gardens and Home is home of the United States’ largest outdoor cascading chrysanthemum display. This year marks 59 years of the beautiful display that is near and dear to the heart of Bellingrath. The annual display takes place throughout the month of November and it is a breathtaking sight you will not want to miss. According to various members of the horticulture staff, this year’s crop of mums is one of the most beautiful Bellingrath Gardens and Home has ever had. This longtime tradition dates back to the early 1960s when Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania shipped Bellingrath their first cuttings of the beautiful cascading flower. It took years of experimentation and skill to construct the level of mum crops Bellingrath has today. The display is all throughout the Gardens and on the Home and is sure to leave you with a pleasant memory of nature. Join us this November for our annual display. Precise bloom times will be available on our website. As we approach 60 years of cascading chrysanthemums, we would love for the community to come out and enjoy the beauty of the mums all over the property. Bellingrath Gardens and Home is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that desires to perpetuate a place of beauty that enhances the community experience.

Saturday Market in the Park Returns to Cathedral Square

Fall is here, and the best place to get locally produced seasonal fruits, vegetables and other goods will be the City of Mobile Parks and Recreation Department’s Market in the Park events. Fall Market in the Park is back in Cathedral Square every Saturday from 7:30 a.m. until Noon. Each week, local producers will be selling the very best seasonal fresh fruits, local produce, vegetables, seafood, baked goods, jams/jellies, original art, decor and much more. The final Fall Market and in the Park event will take place on Saturday, November 19. If you’re interested in great products and supporting local producers and small businesses, this is the event for you. Downtown Mobile and beautiful Cathedral Square are the perfect backdrops for this one-of-a-kind pop-up market. If you’d like more information on how to become a vendor at Market in the Park this Fall, please email Marissa Pritchard at marissa.pritchard@cityofmobile.org.

Call us today to schedule your appointment!

Mobile and Baldwin County’s Board Certified Allergy Experts coastalallergyasthma.com

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Cold Season and How to Help Your Child Each year from October through February, there is a marked increase in the number of colds experienced by many children. You probably know it as ‘Cold Season’. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, it has seemed like this season has been exaggerated or, alternatively, never-ending. Most common colds are caused by viruses, which will, unfortunately, have to run their course. So, if an antibiotic will not help with symptoms (and many times it will not), what can you do as a parent to help your child feel better? Most viruses peak through 3-5 days, and then start decreasing in symptoms by 7-10 days. The symptoms can vary widely: fevers, runny nose (clear, yellow, green), congestion, cough, sore muscles, sore throat, and more. Pain and fever control are the main ways you can help your cranky child feel better. First, make sure you have good

dosing (based on your child’s weight) for both Tylenol and Motrin. These medicines help with both fever and pain control. So if your child is not sleeping through the night, refusing food, or is complaining of a sore throat, this is usually a good first step to help with those symptoms. Secondly, for the cold symptoms like congestion, runny nose, and cough, there are lots of additional options for medication to provide relief. For children younger than 2 years of age, options include: use of a humidifier, vapor rub, suctioning with saline, and honey (only after 1 year of age). Once a child turns two, many more options are available. These include daily Zyrtec or Claritin to help with runny nose and itchy eyes, and Mucinex to help with congestion. As for coughing, try to keep in mind that coughing is your body’s natural way to clear chest congestion, so it’s not neces-

sarily a bad thing! However, if your child’s cough is becoming too disruptive, your pediatrician can suggest and prescribe a variety of cough medicines to help. Unfortunately, viruses are a part of life, and cold season is here to stay. However, if fever or other symptoms are continuing to persist, or if your child is just ill-appearing and you’re worried something else might be going on, feel free to take him or her to get checked out by your pediatrician. When it comes to a sick child, sometimes a bit of reassurance can be just what the doctor ordered! Dr. Savannah Browning grew up in Fayette, AL. She moved to Mobile to attend Medical School at the University of South Alabama in 2009, and has been a proud Mobilian ever since. She joined Children’s Medical Group in 2016, and her office is at the Airport Boulevard location. She lives in Mobile with her husband, Andrew, and their three children: Jude, Luke, and Annie.

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Autauga County Schools

Grandparent’s Day at Cottage Hill Christian

On September 29th, Cottage Hill Christian Academy hosted over 500 grandparents to celebrate Grandparent’s Day. We had a blast singing, dancing, and making crafts while celebrating our grandparents and thanking them for their investment in our lives.

Phillips Preparatory’s Lady Pirates Have a Great Season

Phillips Preparatory’s Lady Pirates had an incredible season, making it all the way to the playoffs. Congratulations to the players and the coaches.

Saint Pius X and Parish Celebrates the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi

On October 4th, Saint Pius X Catholic School and Parish celebrated the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi. Students and parishioners brought their pets up to school today for a special blessing by Father Savoie. It was an absolutely beautiful day for this special event!

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

Corpus Christi Catholic Toy Bowl Court

Congratulations to our 2022 Toy Bowl Court! Thank you to all of our families, friends and community members who supported our students in the Toy Bowl Court. Your generosity is greatly appreciated! Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

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Six Mobile County Seniors are National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

Congratulations to the six Mobile County Public Schools seniors who are semifinalists in the 68th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. A semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SAT or ACT scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test. These students now advance to the finalist level of the competition, which will be announced in February 2023. The semifinalists are: Bailey Baxter, Shawn Mullen, Ryker Quinones, Lily Stubblefield and Christina Trinh of Davidson High School, and Nathan Wallace of Mary G. Montgomery High School.

Davidson High Named National Merit Commended Students Davidson High School’s Jimmie Beth Kuntz, Richard Pham, and Hannah Broders were named National Merit Commended Students! There are 34,000 students nationwide who receive this recognition based on their score of 207 or higher on the PSAT. All three are in Davidson’s IB program and were recognized as AP Scholars.

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Autauga County Schools Mobile County Students Earn Academic Honors

Congratulations to Amari Yelding of B.C. Rain High School and Robert York of LeFlore Magnet High School13 – Davidson’s 10th Grade EPIC - Engineering Students. They are among 62,000 students nationwide to earn academic honors from the College Board’s National

Recognition Programs. These programs create pathways to college for students from underserved communities. Yelding and York earned this recognition by excelling on the PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, and in the classroom.

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Scholars Bowl

Cottage Hill Christian Academy’s Scholars Bowl team competed in the University of Mobile Brain Battle. While competing, our Varsity team picked up some very big wins, and our JV team went 5-0! We are proud of the start of their season.

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

Clark-Shaw Magnet School Extra Yard Teacher Winner

The University of South Alabama College of Education and Professional Studies and South Alabama Athletics selected 6th grade Clark-Shaw Magnet School teacher, Mrs. Miranda Manley, as one of its Extra Yard for Teachers Classroom Project winners. Her proposal features a book study using Making History Come Alive through Captured: An American Prisoner of War in N. Vietnam (the Jeremiah Denton Story). She received a $250 gift card and was invited, along with a guest, to the Extra Yard for Teachers Jags Football game on Saturday, September 24th, where she was recognized with the other recipients. Congratulations, Mrs. Manley! (She is pictured here with Clark-Shaw principal Mrs. Timesha Taylor-Jackson). Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

McGill-Toolen Wins the Brain Battle

McT wins the Brain Battle at University of Mobile against competing schools. The Jackets scored 1622 points in 5 rounds to bring home the win! 12

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St. Mary Catholic School Red Ribbon Leader

St. Mary Catholic congratulates Charlie Heinz, the eighth grade representative chosen as Red Ribbon Leader and Coordinator for the Mobile Drug Education Council. One student from all schools in Mobile and Baldwin County schools are chosen to represent their schools based on the six pillars of character promoted by the Character Counts initiative and the Drug Education Council. These include trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Charlie will lead Red Ribbon activities for St. Mary during Red Ribbon Week at the end of October. Charlie will also plan a community service project to help his fellow students in building a connection to the community and to encourage healthy lifestyle choices.

Congratulations Faith Academy Band and Color Guard

Congratulations to the Faith Academy Band and Color Guard for all ones and superior rating during the Marching Band competition held at MGM. Thank you for all your hard work on and off the field!

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St. Luke’s Episcopal School Homecoming Queen

Congratulations to St. Luke’s Homecoming Queen 2022, Kennedy Johnson. Pictured: Maddie Banks, Lottie Perloff, Jaenna Gaston, Makenna Rowland, Kennedy Johnson, Charlie Anne Phillips, Emma Hataway, Rowan Yeager and Ahja Wilder.

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

“Who Are We? We Are Barton! We are Mobile!”

”Who are we? We are Barton! We are Mobile!” This is the driving question for our first semester school-wide project-based learning focus at Barton Academy. “Who are we as learners? As a school? As a community?” Throughout this semester, students will research and explore various aspects and people that represent Mobile’s vibrant and diverse community. In this photo, you can see how Barton Academy kicked off a project based learning (PBL) unit in style with a PBL launch that included members of Mobile’s diverse community who shared their story, a banner reveal complete with confetti cannons, an impromptu student dance party on the lawn, and a Coast Guard helicopter fly-over.

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Cottage Hill Christian Academy Feed the Need

This year, CHCA has partnered with Feed the Need to raise funds and bring a missions opportunity to campus. This partnership will allow our students to gather and pack 15,000 meals to send to Haiti. Students are working extremely hard to raise funds for their team to receive opportunities to win prizes and fund discipleship.

Dunbar Magnet PE Department Wins Award

Dunbar Magnet School of Creative and Performing Arts, PE department, has been awarded the Healthier Generation Enriching Health Education award! Coaches Brannon and Coach Lapp do an amazing job of enriching health education by integrating health into all of our PE classes!

MAGIC CHRISTMAS IN LIGHTS NOVEMBER 25, 2022 - JANUARY 4, 2023 CLOSED DECEMBER 25, 2022 & JANUARY 1, 2023

St. Dominic Catholic Kindergarten Studies Weather Patterns

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St. Dominic Catholic School Kindergarten students are studying weather patterns in Science and God’s gifts in Religion. They did an art project showing that rain and sunshine make rainbows! Pictured: Brooks Patrick and Henry Strickland.

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Davidson’s 10th Grade EPIC Engineering Students

Sophomores in Davidson’s EPIC Academy on the Engineering pathway learn about civil engineering with Coach deLange through a series of hands-on design projects. To finish the first quarter, the groups were stranded on a desert island and had to develop a means of transporting clean water from the closest water source more than a days’ journey away. The challenge was to maximize the volume of water transported while meeting the minimum volume needed for survival as well as minimizing the time and energy required to transport it. This class is presented with several design challenges throughout the year and will compete in the Civil Engineering competition at the University of South Alabama this spring.

Autauga County Schools Cottage Hill Christian Greenough Prayer Garden Dedication

Cottage Hill Christian Academy took time to celebrate the legacy of Mrs. Fran Greenough who has faithfully served the Cottage Hill Community for 29 years. Friends, family, alumni, and faculty gathered to dedicate the Greenough Prayer Garden and share stories of the impact that Mrs. Greenough had on their life. We are grateful to have this area as an outdoor classroom space, gathering spot, and a place to take our cares and concerns before the Lord!

St. Mary’s Teacher Receives Award

St. Mary Catholic School Middle School Math Teacher, Stephanie LeGrone, was surprised on September 20, in front of the entire middle school with the “Extra Yard For Teachers” Award presented by the College of Football Play Off Foundation. 2018 Alabama Teacher of the Year, Chasity Collier, presents this award to teachers throughout the state who go the extra mile in teaching! Click here to find out more about this program!

Faith Academy Spelling Bee Finalists Congratulations to our Faith Academy Grand Champion Spelling Bee finalists! 1st place- Natalie Hartley 2nd place- Trinity Kidd Natalie will represent Faith at the Mobile County spelling bee.

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

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Barton Academy Holds First Pep-Rally

Barton Academy held it’s first pep-rally on October 3, 2022. The band played “We Will Rock You”, the cheer leaders danced and led a cheer “Go Big Blue,” and the choir students sang the original Barton Academy Alma Mater. The students and staff were celebrating the beginning of their homecoming week, the end of a successful first quarter, and the volleyball team who made it to the finals! There is a lot to celebrate and cheer for happening at Barton Academy! Pictured are the cheer leaders with the faculty sponsor, Mrs. Smith.

Saint Pius X Catholic Elects Student Government Association

Congratulations to Saint Pius X Catholic School’s newly elected Student Government Association members! From left to right: 4th grade Henry Venuti, 5th grade Connor Jones, 6th grade Amber Spivey, 7th grade Ellie Morgan, 7th grade Jake Lehocky, 8th grade Gennie Morgan -secretary, 8th grade Malcolm Howard- President, 7th grade Nicholas Kuppersmith, 6th grade Tucker Desselle, 6th grade Eve Marie Gaudet, 5th grade Emmie Morgan, 4th grade Laura Katherine Howard.

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Autauga County Schools St. Dominic Catholic School Participates in Box of Joy

Many children in developing countries experience Christmas without hope and come from families who are too poor to provide them with even life’s basic necessities. That is why St. Dominic Catholic School partners with Cross Catholic Outreach to participate in the Box of Joy ministry. Box of Joy is a fun and easy activity for the entire family that involves filling shoeboxsized boxes with small toys, school and hygiene supplies, clothing, and other gifts. Once filled these boxes will be safely shipped to local Catholic organizations in developing countries such as Haiti, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic.

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Lighthouse Baptist Purchases Property

Lighthouse Baptist Church has purchased property at the corner of Nan Grey Davis and Browder Rd. This land brings great opportunity for future growth in both buildings and sports fields. Recently, LBC had a workday to clean up the property as we begin making plans for expansion.

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St. Luke’s Interventions in Biomedical Sciences Students Use zSpace

St. Luke’s Interventions in Biomedical Sciences students use zSpace computers for in-depth study of the human body. This 3D immersive and interactive experience provides gross and micro-anatomy views, illustrations, and animations allowing students to view the human body from all sides and angles as well as dissect it in seemingly mid air! The use of this technology provides a deeper understanding of anatomy, physiology, histology and pathology of the entire human body.

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UMS-Wright Student Competes in World Sailing Competition

Noah Gautier ‘28 has been chosen (1 of 24 chosen in the US) as a sailor to represent Team USA through USODA Optimus Development Program! He spent a week in October sailing as an ambassador to the Bahamian Team. Before coming home, he will sail the Bahama Nationals. This event is about competition, sportsmanship, friendship, and goodwill. He worked hard all summer on the water and traveled all over the United States to earn this opportunity. We are SO proud of you, Noah!

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Autauga County Schools Learners at Acton Academy Mobile Complete Writer’s Workshop

Discovery Studio Learners at Acton Academy Mobile completed their Writer’s Workshop! Each Eagle developed, wrote, and illustrated their very own first books. Students used peer editing and multiple drafts to create their final published book for the Classroom Library! The New Girl by Eloise Hungry Mac by Sam The Tale of Ted and Ratee by Landry The Adventures of Tigey and Lia by Bethel

SGA at Little Flower Catholic School

Student Government officers at Little Flower School take on responsibilities at the school by leading morning prayer and songs each day. They are also called on to assist with school events and celebrations. Newly elected officers are (left to right) Ben Zwitt (Elementary Representative), Joanna Ciza (1st VP), Sady Portillo (2nd VP), Makiya Hall (President), Molly Duke (Treasurer), and Daniel Stewart (Sports reporter). Uriah Lumley (Secretary) was unavailable for the picture.

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D RI V E TH R U Celebrate the Christmas season at Christ United, by traveling through a real-life scene of Bethlehem and experience what it was like the night baby Jesus was born with live character portrayals of Mary, Joseph, shepherds, wise men, angels and live animals.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2022 4:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.

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6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 christunited.com Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

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Grandparents Visit Little Flower Catholic

The annual Grandparents’ Tea at Little Flower was a happy day for all the generations involved. The SGA officers helped with the service, and the treats were provided by the faculty and staff. What a blessing our grandparents have been to us through the years.

St. Ignatius Pre School Picnic was a Success!

Younger Impalas’ loved ones enjoyed a Chick Fil A lunch on the lawn. God blessed us with beautiful weather! Our annual family picnic is a great way to end the first quarter of school. We love having our parents, grandparents and friends on campus!

Literature Focus at Dunbar Magnet

Ms. Dankovic’s Literature Focus at Dunbar Magnet School, is all about narrative story elements such as character, setting, point of view, and dialogue. Each student chose a short story that we have read this quarter and made a foldable organizer. Each strip has a story element on it and underneath, the students connected the term to an example from the short story they picked. We are very impressed at the connections and examples that the students chose!

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SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! 6611 Wall Street •Mobile, AL 36695 | 251.607.0110 - local | www.pickettortho.com 111 W. Church Street • Jackson, AL 36545 | 877.660.1103 - toll–free | info@pickettortho.com

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Autauga County Schools

St. Dominic Students Use STEM Boxes

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St. Dominic Catholic School sixth grade students used STEM boxes during Technology class to learn about and make a prosthetic hand. Using geometry and technology components students were provided the materials to create a prosthetic hand that is able to open and close! They will continue their studies this year learning about printing prosthetics using our 3D printer. Pictured: Annabelle Rockwell and Luke Yeoman.

Saint Pius X Catholic Celebrates The Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary

Saint Pius X Catholic School recently celebrated The Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. Classes were paired up to say the Rosary. Using Zoom, various teachers lead the students in the Glorious Mysteries as the images were projected on the board. It was quite nice and the younger students really enjoyed being with their older partners. Later, students completed an Edible Rosary project sponsored by the PTO. It was spiritual, educational and delicious!

St. Luke’s Episcopal Named National Merit Semifinalist

Last Fall, about 1.6 million juniors across the nation took the PSAT. Recently, The National Merit Scholarship Program named the TOP 1% of these students as National Merit Semifinalists. Congrats to St. Luke’s Maggie McDonough on representing less than ONE PERCENT of high school seniors in the U.S.! We are so proud of YOU!

Clark-Shaw Magnet Science Project Goes to Nationals!

Brooke May, a 7th grader at Clark-Shaw Magnet School, was selected as one of 10 students in the entire state of Alabama for the Broadcom Masters competition. Only 300 students in the nation are recommended for this competition after winning at their regional and state levels. Brooke’s science fair project looked at the effect of traditional soil vs. water beads on the biomass of collard green plants. The goal was to determine if water beads were a good replacement since they are lighter and more easily transported for space or in case of soil contamination. Her project won 1st place in the school-wide science fair, 2nd place in the regional science fair, and 3rd place in the Alabama state science fair in the category of animal, place, computational & bioinformatics sciences. She was also awarded the Auburn University Biological Sciences Award for Outstanding Poster in Animal and Plant Sciences as well as the Auburn University Society of Women in Sciences and Mathematics Achievement Award. Congratulations, Brooke!

Faith Academy Celebrates 300th for Coach Jack French

Faith Academy football and cheer had an awesome time celebrating Coach French’ s 300th win! Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

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St. Ignatius Grandparent’s Day is on November 4th

We welcome all Impala grandparents to enjoy Mass with their loved one! After Mass we will have a reception in the gym and special visits to the student’s classrooms for some grandparent goodies. Last stop is the Library for a look at the Book Fair! We love our Impala grandparents!

Impalas Lead the Way in CYO Fall Sports

We are excited to be in the running for toy bowl champions in multiple sports! Our Impalas are not only top of their class academically but also athletically. We are thankful to McGill-Toolen Catholic’s CYO sports program for providing a competitive atmosphere based in faith. The best part of CYO games is gathering at center court/field to begin with a prayer.

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

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

Registration for the 2022 - 2023 school year is happening NOW. Established in 1958, Corpus Christi Catholic School provides students in K2 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. To schedule a tour, please contact us. 251.342.5474 • school@CCSCatholic.com school.corpuschristiparish.com 6300 McKenna Drive Mobile, Alabama 36608 CCS Generic Ad.indd 1

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Autauga County Schools Acton Academy Mobile Take UMS-Wright College Campus Tour The annual college campus tour took place early in October. In 5 days, students Pride in their Learning Space visited the

Acton Academy Mobile students investigate different cleaning tools and methods to keep their studio clean. Learners developed a weekly “job” chart and began taking responsibility for taking pride in their learning environment and making it a clean, safe space!

campuses of Wofford College, Davidson College, UNC-Chapel Hill, Duke University, University of Virginia, Washington & Lee University, Wake Forest University, Elon University and Clemson University. A highlight of the trip was reuniting with alumni - Edward Ladd ‘22 and Campbell Ladd ‘20 at the University of Virginia, Shelby Burton ‘21 and Caroline Block ‘22 at Clemson University and Barclay McGinley ‘22 at Washington & Lee University!

UMS-Wright Participate in Regional Judicial Tournament

This weekend 3 teams from UMS-Wright competed at the YMCA Youth Judicial Regional Tournament at Montgomery Academy. The A-Team, led by William Neumann, won 1st place in the tournament out of more than 15 other teams from around the state. Baileigh Whiddon, team captain of the C Team, won the best attorney at the conference and Evan Steele, also from the C Team, won the best witness. All three teams will be advancing to the state tournament in Montgomery. In addition, Paul Murray will serve as a judge at the state competition and Sarah Bolding Parker will serve as a bailiff. Team composition: A Team: William Neumann (captain), Will Kittrell, Virginia Ladd, Alex Moore, Ian Lynch, Stephens Ashbee B Team: Madelyn Audia (captain), Anna Bell Muscat, Ann Claire McMillan, Hunter Dabbs, Khandro Butler Anne Magaret Bridges C Team: Baileigh Whiddon (captain), Braydon Williford, Evan Steele, Frances Howard, Quinn Lynch

McGillToolen Catholic National Merit Semifinalists

Corpus Christi Catholic Buddies Our Eight graders are thankful for playground time with their Kindergarten buddies.

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

Congratulations to the four McGill-Toolen Catholic National Merit Semifinalists! Matthew Galvin, Nicholas Hewitt, Julia Grinstead and Andy Anderson. 24

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Saint Dominic Catholic Toy Bowl Queen and King

Davidson High Attend Joint Leadership Development Conference

Saint Dominic Catholic School is proud to announce the 2022 Toy Bowl Queen and King: Caroline Elizabeth Howell and Elliot Brooks Adams! Thank you to all of our court members and families for their hard work and support.

29 DHS Career & Technical Student Organization (CTSO) leaders attended the Joint Leadership Development Conference (JLDC) at the convention center recently. They heard from 3-time USA Olympian Dee Dee Trotter and attended breakout & networking sessions with other schools from our area. We are proud to have active CTSO’s for our Career Tech programs in Drafting, Computer Science, Culinary, NJROTC, Business and Marketing as well as the programs available at the Bryant Career Tech Center.

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Autauga County Schools

Phillips Preparatory Students Nominated as Principled IB Learners

Phillips Preparatory students: Dwight King, Karsyn Grantham, Alex Potter, and Rilegh Bonham were nominated, by their teachers, for being Principled IB Learners.

St. Mary Catholic School Celebrates Grandparents!

St. Mary Catholic School celebrated Grandparents Day in a big way on Friday, September 16. The morning began with Mass and a blessing of the New Ollis Pavilion and Lauten Courts. A surprise visit from St. Mary’s new Mustang Mascot added to the fun! The day continued with classroom visits and a luncheon. Submitted by Marcelle Naman.

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How the Social Media

“Popularity Contest” Affects Our Kids I don’t know about you, but middle school was hard. I’m talking “you couldn’t pay me enough money to do it again” hard. These are the years when young people start to really find their group. They begin to discover where they fit in if you will. And in my day (old person story here), when we weren’t walking uphill in the snow both ways to school, we were navigating some of the same issues kids do today. But on a much smaller scale. And, of course, who was “popular,” or if you were a part of the “popular group,” was something of discussion and worry. For the most part, a lot of that popularity came from the shoes and clothes you wore, if you had the latest hairstyle, where you lived, and if you got to shave your legs before anyone else. But it was the 80s for me, so things were much different than they are now. What has remained the same is the desire to be a part of the group. To be noticed. To feel like you fit in. And while we did not have social media to reach for when we wanted to feel included, today’s generation has access to a platform that provides a gross sense of inclusion. But it comes with a price. To feel included or

important in the social media space, it feels like you have to provide new content constantly. New pictures. New videos. And it must be better than your last video and better than everyone else’s videos. Insert an algorithm that changes daily, and if you have a child with self-worth attached to views and followers, it is a recipe for disaster. I want to take this one step further and recognize that our youth are not the only ones falling victim to this. Adults are too. If you are an influencer or run your business marketing through social media, especially Instagram or Tik Tok, you face the same issues. The algorithm changes daily. It decides who will see your content and how much they will see, which translates to views and followers. You can work incredibly hard on content only to have the algorithm decide who gets to view it, which leads to feelings of inadequacy and wondering, “what did I do wrong?” It is a vicious cycle. Why is this important to note? Because if social media is affecting how we feel as adults, think about how it affects our children. If adults with mature coping skills struggle in this space, it is no wonder our children struggle. It is why they do what they do every day. It is why they post 27

“bigger” videos and do inherently ill-advised things. Without a catalyst of wanting social media popularity, they probably would not even DO these things. So what do we do as parents to help our children or provide support for ourselves if we struggle in this space? First, we must do the work around understanding that our self-worth is NOT attached to views, follows, or likes. Understand that social media is driven by an algorithm fed and controlled by money-hungry social media giants. How your video or reel performs has absolutely NOTHING to do with who you or your child are as people. It has nothing to do with self-worth. If we can help our children understand how algorithms work, it may help them grasp the concept of a “digital” response versus how it feels to have a response from a real friend. Next, work on other factors to encourage positive confidence growth from sources that are not digital. Please help your child focus on authentic, close, meaningful relationships. Let them know that these are most important... and that these relationships will never be driven by some random number online.

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

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Only recently have scientists begun to study the benefits of gratitude. Vitamin G, as some like to call it, plays a critical role in health and happiness. Focusing on the positive boosts body, mind, and spirit. It gives us energy, inspires us, and transforms us. In a nutshell, it provides life with meaning by thinking of life as a gift.

Don’t you want to give this gift to your children? Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

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Top 10 Benefits of Gratitude

Dr. Robert Emmons is the world’s leading scientific expert on gratitude. He conducted studies involving gratitude journals and found that when people regularly engage in gratitude, they experience measurable psychological, physical, and interpersonal benefits:

• Feel better about their lives overall • Experience higher levels of positive emotions like optimism, enthusiasm, love, and happiness • Are kinder and more generous to others • Have fewer physical problems including pain • Exercise more regularly and eat healthier • Sleep better • Visit the doctor more regularly for checkups • Feel less stressed • Able to cope with stress more effectively and recover more quickly from stressful situations • Live longer–on average, being thankful adds 7 years to our lives!

gratitude that matters. If they want to be thankful for a toy, that is okay. Keeping a gratitude journal is the backbone of gratitude scientific research. Anytime you read about gratitude, you will be asked to write down five points you are thankful for that day or week on an ongoing basis. Over time, you will begin to experience the benefits of gratitude such as stress reduction and optimism. Some people don’t care for the traditional journal approach; they may find it repetitive and boring. Fortunately, there are many ways to express gratitude as a family, such as starting a nightly gratitude prayer ritual. Each family needs to discover what is most effective for them. Plus, you don’t want it to become an annoying chore–it is supposed to make you happier after all! Here are some ideas for fun, creative gratitude journals using a variety of media. As technology changes and our children learn more about what they can do with computers, iPads, and iPhones, we should show them how to use these tools for something positive–for making them feel better.

How It Works

Why does saying thank you have so many benefits for us? When we count our blessings, we interrupt the cycle of negative and fearful thoughts, which allows the stress system in our bodies to recover. Research shows that when we are thankful, we love our lives and want to make sure we stick around long enough to enjoy them. Also, when we receive praise from others, our brain releases the chemical dopamine, which encourages us to do more to receive such praise. This makes us want to thank others and make them feel good as well.

How To Teach Children Gratitude

In her book 10 Mindful Minutes, Goldie Hawn explains that being thankful is not a natural instinct; children need to be taught how to do it. She asks parents to be a good example to their children by thanking them often. It is important to explain to our children why they are being praised. Another important tip is to be careful not to judge how our children express gratitude. Young children under age seven may not fully grasp the concept. It is not what they are thankful for, but that they are learning how to express

5 Ways to Keep Gratitude Journals with Your Kids Start a Blog

Try setting up a family gratitude journal blog (password protected, of course). You can even involve grandparents and cousins, no matter how far away they live. You could introduce this idea at the Thanksgiving table and challenge everyone to submit a post each week throughout the year.

Audio Recording

Children love to hear their own voices. You can have them record their journal on a 29

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phone or iPad. Once you have the recordings, you can get really creative by posting them online for others to listen to or you can even put it to music and create a song or rap using highlights of what they said.

Create Videos

Children also love watching videos of themselves. They will have a blast talking about what they are thankful for and watching it over and over. Maybe have them pretend to be reporters and their gratitude is the news of the day. Or they can act out scenes from the wonderful moments they had.

Paint & Draw

For children who are more visual and artistic, ask them to draw or paint what they are thankful for at the time. You can then put the artwork together in a book organized by month or year. Create your own handmade journal or take pictures and use an online slideshow to present the images.

Build a Collage

Looking for pictures in magazines or online to build a gratitude collage is a fun family project. And no artistic talent required! All that cutting is also a great way for your child to build fine motor skills. Enjoy saying thank you with your children in these innovative ways. You can mix and match these media as well, such as posting videos on your gratitude blog. MBP

Sandi Schwartz is an author, journalist, and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. As the founder and director of the Ecohappiness Project, her mission is to inspire and educate families to build a nature habit to feel happier and calmer. Learn more at www.ecohappinessproject.com.

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

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Month of November

Holidays at OWA

fun under one roof--finding the perfect gift for everyone on their list. Children can shop The Santa Shop. 12:00pm-4:00pm

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(251) 633-6762 www.oursaviorparish.org

@ OWA 1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535 November is a month-long celebration throughout OWA! Stop by Downtown OWA for some holiday shopping and family entertainment with Brandon Styles Variety and Magic Show, Clash eSports All You Can Play Mondays, or the Tropic Takeover Super Smash Bros Tournament Nov 12-13. Not to mention incredible deals on Black Friday, Nov 25. (251) 923-2111 www.VisitOWA.com

November 4-5, 2022 Christmas in the Bayou Shopping Spectacular

@ Bayou La Batre Community Center 12745 Padgett Switch Road Irvington, AL 36544 We will have a large variety of vendors to shop with, food, a silent auction & Santa will be there as well! Nov. 4-5pm-9pm, Nov. 5-10am-4pm (251) 824-7918

November 5, 2022 Midtown Market

@ Spring Hill Avenue United Methodist 2519 SpringHill Ave Mobile, AL 36607 Hand-crafted, artisan, locally-owned, small business, artistic, high-quality, shoppers come join us from 8:00am-4:00pm. Perfect Christmas shopping. www.springhillaveumc.org/midtown-market

Toys for Tots Motorcycle Ride

@ USS Battleship Memorial Parkway 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 10:00am. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the toy drive. (251) 402-9147

November 6, 2022 Annual Merry Mart

@ Our Savior Catholic Church 1801 Cody Road South Mobile, AL 36695 Visitors can enjoy holiday shopping, lunch and Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

November 8, 2022 Trees for Hope

@ Dauphin Way Baptist Church Gym 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 helping to support children and families in our care. 6:00pm

Living History Day at Colonial Fort Conde

@ Colonial Fort Condé 150 S Royal St Mobile, AL 36602 10:00am-3:00pm. FREE admission - Experience the 18th century at Colonial Fort Condé as history is brought to life through the demonstration of everyday activities of Mobile’s past. In addition to stations teaching about daily life, there will also be musket and sword fighting demonstrations every hour as well as our local chapter of the Society of American Period Furniture Makers. (251) 208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

(251) 463-8280 www.treesforhopeevent.org/

November 11-January 16, 2022 Ice Skating Rink

@ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Let us bring winter to you! Grab a pair of skates and glide, spin or fall into the season on real ice. Open Monday–Friday (4-10pm), Saturday and Sunday (10am – 10pm). Special hours apply for holidays and school breaks. (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

November 11-13, 2022 Junior League of Mobile Christmas Jubilee

@ Mobile Convention Center 1 South Water Street Mobile, AL 36602 Kick off your holiday shopping and support your community at Junior League of Mobile’s annual Christmas Jubilee. November 11–11am-7pm, November 12–11am-6pm, November 13–10am-5pm. www.juniorleaguemobile.org

November 12, 2022 Ben May Main Library Outdoor Fall Festival

@ Ben May Main Branch 701 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602 Fall Festival full of free, family-friendly fun including a petting zoo, live DJ, line-dance instructor, professional face-painter and much more! The City of Mobile Animal Services will also be on site with some lovable furry friends available for adoption. 10:00am-12:00pm (251) 340-1507 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Living History Festival

@ Colonial Fort Condé 150 South Royal Street Mobile, AL 36602 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. FREE admission - Experience the 18th century at Colonial Fort Condé as history is brought to life through the demonstration of everyday activities of Mobile’s past. In addition to stations teaching about daily life, there will also be musket and sword fighting demonstrations every hour as well as our local chapter of the Society of American Period Furniture Makers. (251) 544-5480 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Saturdays November 12 December 24, 2022 The Wharf North Pole Express

@ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 This winter, The Wharf Express is on a holiday mission! Put on your PJs and ride The Wharf North Pole Express each Saturday until Christmas, where every child will receive a candy cane, a coloring book and a golden ticker sticker. Open Saturdays (10am–10pm). Times subject to change (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

November 16, 2022

A Service of Hope ad on page 20

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 You are special in the eyes of God and are invited to attend the Service of Hope, a special service to help us prepare ourselves for the coming holidays and support those of us who struggle during this

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season. If you have had a loved one die, we encourage you to bring a picture of them to place on the table of remembrance. Let us come together to lay our hurt and sorrow at the foot of the cross and bask in the warmth of God’s light and love. Please visit christunited.com/serviceofhope for more information. 6:30pm (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com/

November 17, 2022 Mistletoe Shop & Stroll

Saraland, AL 36571 Be sure to get your map/passport so you’ll know everywhere to go on the shopping route for savings and fun. 4pm-8pm. (251) 675-4444 www.saralandchamber.com

November 17-20, 2022 University of Mobile’s “Christmas Spectacular”

@ Cottage Hill Baptist Church 4255 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, AL 36609 With over 20 ensembles and featuring over 200 students with a 50-piece orchestra of combined students and professional mentors, you will experience an inspiring musical extravaganza that will stir your heart as you experience the joy of Christmas. (251) 442-2383 www.umobile.edu/christmas

November 18, 2022 Chickasaw Christmas Tree Lighting

@ Miller Park 6001 Dumont St. Chickasaw, AL 36611 Chickasaw Christmas Tree Lighting will be held in Miller Park at 6:30pm. Santa arrives at 5:30pm. (251) 452-6450 www.cityofchickasaw.org

The Lighting of the Trees

@ Mardi Gras Park 109 Government Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join the City of Mobile for a night of cheer as we light up the night and celebrate the start of the holiday season! This is free family-friendly event that will include a Live DJ, Holiday Princesses, Photo Opportunities, Santa Claus, and so much more! 5:30pm-9:00pm (251) 208-1551 www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/ events/lighting-of-the-tree/

River Delta Marina. Please bring canned or packaged non-perishable food to the race to donate. www.portcitypacers.com

November 24, 2022 Turkey Trot for Hope 5K & Gobble Wobble Fun Run

@ Mardi Gras Park Mobile, AL 36602 The 5K and fun run ‘Gobble Wobble’ have become a festive way to start the holiday season. www.rapahope.org/fundraising/turkeytrot-7z6r8

November 19, 2022

Holidays at OWA

November 25 - Dec 24, 2022 Wales West Arctic Express

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@ OWA 1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535 Kick off the holiday season at OWA’s magestic Tree Lighting in Downtown OWA. Activities will begin in Downtown OWA at 5pm. Closed December 25, 2022 and January 1, 2023 (251) 923-2111 www.VisitOWA.com

Christmas Market and Tree Lighting in Semmes

@ Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL 36576 Authentic steam train ride to the North Pole, through decorations, lights, and snow! Santa visit, Toy, Free Refreshments, Minitrain rides, Hayless Hayride, Potato Cannon, Cafe, Gift Shop. Reservations online. Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, 4pm-9pm, Nightly starting Dec. 14. Tickets can be purchased online. (888) 569-5337; (251) 232-2322 enquiries@ waleswest.com www.waleswest.com

@ Semmes Library 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL 36575 Come out and enjoy a full day of shopping from local vendors ending with the lighting of the Semmes Christmas Tree. 9am-6pm.

November 25, 2022-January 4, 2023

Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens and Home

(251) 649-8811 www.cityofsemmes.org

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

@ River Delta Marina 2350 Dead Lake Marina Rd # 244 Creola, AL 36525 This race benefits Creola Police & Rescue, and the

@ Bellingrath Gardens and Home 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL 36582 Join us for the 27th season. You will stroll through a dazzling light display throughout the 65-acre Garden estate. In addition, the Bellingrath Home is

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decorated in its holiday finery and enhanced with beautiful poinsettias. Closed December 25, 2022 and January 1, 2023. (251) 973-2217 www.bellingrath.org

November 26, 2022 Outdoor Holiday Market

@ Cathedral Square Mobile, AL 36602 Head to Downtown Mobile around Cathedral Square and shop local small businesses this holiday season! 12pm-4pm (251) 208-1551

www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

November 28, 2022 SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Tree Lighting

@ Tillman’s Corner Community Center 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL 36619 SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Tree Lighting will be held from 5:306:30pm (251) 666-2488 www.swmcchamber.com

November 29, 2022 USA Concert Choir & University Chorale Holiday Concert

@ Laidlaw Performing Arts Center 5751 USA Drive South Mobile, AL 36688 USA Concert Choir and University Chorale Holiday Choral Concert will be held at 7:30pm. (251) 460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/music

Weekends and select event dates November 11-December 24, 2022 Photos with Santa at The Wharf

@ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Ho Ho Holiday photo time with Santa at The Wharf! Children can also bring their wish list letters to give to the Jolly Claus or write one in his village. Open Fridays (3-6 pm), Saturdays (10am– 6pm) and Sunday (noon–6pm). Times subject to change. (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

December 1 – 21, 2022 Bragg-Mitchell Mansion Decorated for Christmas

@ Bragg-Mitchell Mansion 1906 Spring Hill Avenue Mobile, AL 36607 Tour the Mansion with traditional decorations adorning each room and enjoy the beauty of the season. Tours on the hour, Tue-Fri 10am-3pm (251) 471-6364 www.braggmitchellmansion.com

December 1, 2022 (Santa’s first day) Santa- Shoppes at Bel Air

@ Shoppes at Bel Air 3299 Joe Treadwell Dr. Mobile, AL 36608 Santa visits and pictures at the Shoppes at Bel Air. reservation link is: www.whereissanta.com. www.shoppesatbelair.com

December 2, 2022 Christmas Sip and Paint

@ Mardi Gras Park 109 Government Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for sipping, painting, singing, dancing, and having lots of fun! 6pm-9pm. Registration required.

(251) 208-1551 www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/ events/lighting-of-the-tree/

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

Mobile Symphony Youth Orchestra “Holiday Concert”

@ 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

Semmes Old Fashioned Christmas

@ Semmes Heritage Park 3871 Wulff Road Semmes, AL 36575 Tour the old schoolhouse and church and learn what Christmas was like in the past. 6pm

Mobile Museum of Art Holiday Market

@ Mobile Museum of Art 4850 Museum Dr Mobile, AL 36608 Mobile Museum of Arts Holiday Market 2pm-5pm www.mobilemuseumofart.com/

Roll Mobile - Jingle all the Way Skating

@ Bienville Square Mobile, AL 36602 We are turning all of Bienville Square into an outdoor roller skating rink! Entrance to the skating event is free! Come on out, listen to the LIVE DJ, and skate the square with us! 6-10pm

www.cityofsemmesal.gov

(251) 208-1551

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber VIP Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa

Satsuma Christmas Arts & Crafts Festival

@ SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL 36619 SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce VIP Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa -Tickets $25 must be purchased in advance. VIP Includes: small gift, photo with Santa, holiday craft and pancakes. Time 6-8pm. (251) 666-2488 info@swmcchamber.com www.swmcchamber.com

The Prophecy Show

@ Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 Come experience the power, the music and the magic this Christmas season at the Mobile Saenger Theatre as The Prophecy Show performs all your favorite music from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and more! www.asmglobalmobile.com

December 2 - 4, 2022 Market on Sage

217 S Sage Ave Mobile, AL 36606 St Pius X Catholic School is having their annual Market on Sage. Come out and mark items off your Christmas list! Shopping: 12/02-10am6pm, Breakfast with Santa: 12/03-9am-11am, Shopping: 12/03-11am-4pm, Shopping: 12/04-9am-2pm www.facebook.com/St-Pius-X-annual-Market-onSage-1471334439808874

December 3, 2022 Breakfast with the Grinch

@ Steele Creek 368 Juniper Ave Satsuma , AL 36572 Join us for the Breakfast With The Grinch at 8am and 10am. Tickets will go on sale online November 11th at 8am online. No tickets will be sold at the door. Everyone must have a ticket. www.cityofsatsuma.com

Classical Ballet of Mobile presents Holiday Wonders 2022

@ Murphy High School 100 S Carlen St Mobile, AL 36606 This season’s Holiday Wonders features students of all ages, beginning with our precious Pre-Ballet dancers (age 2-5) performing to traditional Christmas carols. Then, Jazz/Musical Theatre students kick the show into high gear with Rockette-style routines. 12pm www.classicalballetmobile.org

Dauphin Island Christmas Parade

Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Come to the Dauphin Island Christmas Parade at 11:00am. www.dauphinislandchamberofcommerce.com

www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

@ Baldwin Square Satsuma , AL 36572 Join us in Baldwin Square for Satsuma Christmas Arts & Crafts festival starting at 10am. www.cityofsatsuma.com

Satsuma Christmas Parade

Satsuma , AL 36572 Join us for the Annual Satsuma Christmas Parade. Start Time: 1:00pm www.cityofsatsuma.com

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 2021 Christmas Parade @ W.C. Griggs Elementary School 6001 Three Notch Road Mobile, AL 36619 Parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. (251) 666-2488 www.swmcchamber.com

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce Santa Breakfast

@ SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL 36619 Kids 12 and under FREE/parents $5 for pancake breakfast and photos with Santa. 8am-10am (251) 666-2488

www.swmcchamber.com

December 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 24, 2022 Holiday Market-Mobile Flea Market

@ Mobile Flea Market 401 Schillinger Road North Mobile, AL 36608 The Holiday Market is the perfect place to shop for the entire family. Great deals on new, used, and handmade items. You are sure to find something for everyone. (251) 633-7533 www.mobilefleamarket.com

December 3-4, 2022

St. Lawrence Christmas Bazaar ad on page 27

@ St. Lawrence Church 370 South Section Street Fairhope, AL 36532 Silent auction with virtual bidding option, vendor booths, bake sale, handcrafted gift baskets, and Christmas Cafe. Unique art and antiques for purchase. Live Bluegrass Christmas music Saturday and pictures with Santa! We’ll have Gumbo, candied nuts and apples, baked goods, and homemade casseroles to go. Saturday and Sunday 9am - 3pm. (251) 928-5931 bazaar@stlawrencefairhope.com www.stlawrencechristmasbazaar.com

Christmas Boutique Bash

@ The Grounds 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL 36608 Christmas In July Boutique Bash is a fantastic

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weekend of shopping, food, and fun! Enjoy shopping many boutiques and businesses.

December 4, 2022

Live Nativity at Christ United ad on page 20

@ Christ United Campus 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Join us as we celebrate the Christmas season, by traveling through the story of Jesus’ birth. Enjoy the real-life scene of Bethlehem and experience what it was like the night baby Jesus was born with live character portrayals of Mary, Joseph, shepherds, wise men, angels and live animals. Go to christunited.com/livenativity to connect your phone and car radio to our Live Nativity narration. Visit christmasinmobile.com for details. Time 4:00pm-7:00pm (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com/

Mobile’s Singing Children Annual Christmas Concert

@ Cathedral of Immaculate Conception 2 South Claiborne Street Mobile, AL 36602 Mobile’s Singing Children Christmas Concert at 3:00pm. Free Admission with Suggested donation at the door $10. www.mobilesingingchildren.org

December 5, 2022 DWL Christmas Show

@ Murphy High School 100 S. Carlen St Mobile, AL 36606 Let Dance Without Limits get you in the holiday

spirit with performances by our dancers, special guests, silent auction, a vendor market and much more! 6:00pm

(251) 610-4969 www.eventbrite.com/e/dance-without-limits-christmas-show-tickets-427639229447

Holiday Cheer

@ 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 signature dishes, wines to taste, a live auction of holiday gifts and music. (251) 432-1101 www.cacmobile.org

(251) 432-8678 lwallace@stmarymobile.org

December 7, 2022 Playhouse in the Park presents “A Christmas Carol”

@ Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join us at Mobile’s Saenger Theatre for “A Christmas Carol” presented by The Playhouse-inthe-Park. (251) 602-0630 www.playhouseinthepark.org

December 8 -18, 2022 Miracle on Dauphin Street

December 6, 2022 Mobile Symphony Young Strings Concert

@ Dauphin Way Baptist Church 3661 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36608 Miracle on Dauphin Street will have ice skating for only $5.00. We will also have food and snacks for sale, live music, hay rides, and Christmas Market and more. We are open Thursday’s and Friday’s from 5pm–9pm & Saturday’s and Sunday’s from 2pm–9pm.

@ Shoppes at Bel Air 3299 Joe Treadwell Dr. Mobile, AL 36608 You and your family are invited to enjoy the sounds of the String Academy and Chamber Strings. Over 40 string students ages 8-14 performing a variety of musical selections including some holiday favorites! 5:30pm, Free

(251) 342-3456 www.dwbc.org

(251) 478-1893 www.shoppesatbelair.com

St. Mary Lighting Up Midtown!

Plenty of dinner options, cookie decorating, hot chocolate and even a little snow will be included! Time: 7pm-9pm

@ St. Mary Campus 1453 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36604 Join us for our annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Family Celebration. The Tree LIghting begins at 7:00pm. 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 little ones!

December 9, 2022 ArtWalk with the Incredible Inflatable Holiday Balloon Display @ Downtown Mobile Mobile, AL 36602 Join us as we transform Cathedral Square into a hand-crafted, balloon sculpted wonderland! 6:00pm-9:00pm (251) 208-1551

www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

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December 10, 2022 2022 Semmes Christmas Tour and Shop Hop

@ Various locations Semmes, AL 36575 Semmes Woman’s Club invites you to share the joys of the upcoming season—the sights, the sounds, the smells, the flavors—with everyone who REALLY loves Christmas! Semmes Christmas Tour and Shop Hop from 1pm-6pm.

(251) 288-7972 www.facebook.com/semmeschristmastour/

Christmas at Oakleigh and the Holiday Homes Tour

300 Oakleigh Place Mobile, AL Christmas at Oakleigh and the Holiday Homes Tour will be held December 10. Please visit our website for more information. (251) 432-6161 www.historicmobile.org/events

Dawes Christmas Parade

@ Surge Church 2900 Dawes Road Mobile, AL 36695 10th Annual Dawes Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 10th at 1pm. (251) 633-0033

Saraland Christmas Parade

Saraland, AL 36571 Join us for the Saraland Christmas Parade at 12:00pm. (251) 675-4444 www.saralandchamber.com

Saraland Mistletoe Market

@ Saraland Town Center Park at Splash Pad Saraland, AL 36571 Join us for the Annual Mistletoe Market from 9:00am– 4:00pm, come shop, eat, and more! (251) 675-4444 www.saralandchamber.com

Semmes Christmas Parade

Highway 98 to Firetower Rd Semmes, AL 36575 The Semmes Annual Christmas Parade with floats from area businesses and churches, marching bands, antique cars, and lots of throws will start at 10:00am. (251) 649-8811 information@cityofsemmesal.gov www.cityofsemmesal.gov

December 10 and 11, 2022 Holly Days on Main Festival

@ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Guests can enjoy arts and crafts vendors, special performances, a lighted boat parade and more. 9am-5pm. (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Mobile Ballet presents “The Nutcracker” ad on page 5

Mobile Symphony presents “A Cinematic Christmas”

@ Saenger Theatre 6 Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 Your favorite holiday music from your favorite holiday movies! Dec 10-7:30pm, Dec 11-2:30pm (251) 432-2010 www.mobilesymphony.org

This Is Christmas Concert

@ Springhill Baptist Church 2 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for an Advent worship experience featuring the Spring Hill Baptist Church Sanctuary Choir, Orchestra, Living Masterpieces, Children’s Choir and Piano Ensemble. December 10- 4:00pm and December 11- 6:00pm. (251) 652-1037 www.shbc.cc

December 11, 2022

A JOY Christmas Celebration ad on page 20

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Enjoy this inclusive, accessible and sensory friendly Christmas worship. 3:30pm. Fellowship Hall or Watch Live at christunited.com/live (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com/

How Great Our Joy!

A Lessons and Carols Service ad on page 20

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 A celebration of the joy of the true meaning of Christmas and the Christ Child born to save us all. Join us for a dynamic worship service of Biblical readings and teaching, congregational singing, Christmas carols and anthems. This special service is presented by the Sanctuary Choir, Instruments of Praise orchestra, along with other guest musicians and music ensembles of the Worship Arts ministry at Christ United Methodist Church. Visit christmasinmobile.com for details. 9:00am, 10:30am

December 16-18 , 2022

Drama Camp Productions and Sunnyside Theater present

“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”

ad on page 3

@ Baker High School 8901 Airport Blvd Mobile, AL 36608 Join us as we present Mobile’s first-ever production of this holiday classic based on the movie! Shows-December 16 & 17 at 7pm, December 17 & 18 at 2pm. (251) 510-1808 www.sunnysidedrama.com

December 17, 2022

Christmas at the Exploreum ad on page 30

65 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602 Have a holly jolly holiday at the Exploreum’s annual Christmas event! Experience some winter-time fun at this family-friendly event! 10:00am-2:00pm. (251) 208-6893

www.exploreum.com

Carpe Diem’s Santa Run

@ Carpe Diem Coffee And Tea Company 4072 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36608 A 2 mile Fun-Run, walk, bike ride, dog walking, fun for the whole family charity event. Join the fun, spread the Christmas spirit. Holiday Costumes encouraged. Time: 10:00am. (251) 304-0448 www.carpe-coffee.com

Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas

@ Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 The 13th Annual A Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas featuring Taylor Hicks. (251) 208-5600 www.asmglobalmobile.com

Holiday Extravaganza and Toy Giveaway @ James Seals Park Mobile, AL 36603 Enjoy DJ, karaoke, crafts, bounce houses, food trucks, vendors, and toy giveaway! 10am-2pm.

(251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com/

(251) 208-1551

December 13, 2022 The Mobile Pops Christmas Concert

December 23, 2022

@ Davidson High School Auditorium 3900 Pleasant Valley Road Mobile, AL 36609 Join us at 7:00pm at Davidson High School for our annual Christmas Concert. All concerts are FREE and open to the public. (251) 679-6036 www.themobilepops.com

December 15, 2022 The Mobile Pops Christmas Concert Mary G. Montgomery High School @ Mary G. Montgomery High School Auditorium 4275 Snow Road Semmes, AL 36575 Mobile Symphonic Pops: Christmas Concert at 7:00pm

www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Christ United Kids Christmas Service ad on page 20

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Bring the kids for a fun and child-friendly Christmas service. Everyone will enjoy Christmas sing-a-longs and an interactive telling of the Christmas story. Visit christmasinmobile.com for details. 5:00pm (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com/

December 24, 2022

Christmas Eve Candlelight Traditional Communion

@ Mobile Civic Center Theatre 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL 36602 Outstanding guest artists share the stage with Mobile Ballet Company and students in this cherished Mobile holiday tradition, performing to the timeless score by Tchaikovsky with exciting choreography by Artistic Director Katia Garza. Join Clara and the Nutcracker Prince in their adventures with the Mouse King and the Sugar Plum Fairy in this magical story that will delight audiences of all ages. December 10, 2:30pm, 7:30pm December 11, 2:30pm

December 16, 2022 A Roman Street -Marlow Boys Christmas

(251) 342-2241 www.mobileballet.org

@ Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 A Roman Street -Marlow Boys Christmas-come hear Christmas Classics done in a new and exciting way on Friday, December 16 at 7:30pm.

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Sing Christmas carols along with our choir, meditate on scripture readings, listen to an inspirational Christmas message, and participate in Holy Communion. Each service will close with a special candle lighting and Silent Night. 4pm, 6pm & 11pm, Sanctuary or Watch Live at christmasinmobile.com.

www.asmglobalmobile.com

(251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com/

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

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NewSong’s Christmas Eve Communion Services ad on page 20

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Come and experience Christmas with our incredible live worship band and a meaningful Christmas message! The whole family will enjoy the celebration of God’s greatest gift with candlelight and Holy Communion. 6pm, Christ Center or Watch Live at christmasinmobile.com (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com/

December 25, 2022

Christmas Day Sunday Worship and Blessing of the Toys ad on page 20

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 We will celebrate the joy of Christmas day with one service for all in our Sanctuary at 10:30 a.m. Families are encourage to attend and bring your child’s favorite toy! Our pastors will pray God’s blessing over the children and their toy during service. Visit christmasinmobile.com for details. 10:30am (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com/

December 30, 2022 A Magical Cirque Christmas

@ Mobile Civic Center Theatre 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL 36602 National Artists Corp. presents A Magical Cirque Christmas (251) 208-7906 www.asmglobalmobile.com

December 31, 2022 Kids Confetti Drop

@ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 If your little ones are too young to stay up until midnight, join us at The Wharf for our annual Kids Confetti Drop, featuring tons of family friendly activities plus an early daytime countdown to the new year. Event time is 10 am – 2 pm. Confetti drop at noon! (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

MoonPie Over Mobile -New Year’s Eve Celebration

@ Downtown Mobile Mobile, AL 36602 Ring in 2023 at the hottest New Year’s Eve Celebration in the South, MoonPie Over Mobile! Rock out of 2022 in downtown Mobile with the MoonPie Drop at midnight and jam to the sounds of Third Eye Blind and an epic fireworks/laser light show! All the fun starts at 8 p.m. as Downtown Mobile

205- 638-PIRC

(7472)

Helping navigate the mental health system for teens and children. Services are FREE and confidential. Services provided by phone are not medical advice and should not be considered as such. Services are provided via telephone by licensed mental health professionals who recommend the most appropriate mental health resources. PIRC is available seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

PIRC is NOT a crisis or suicide hotline. Call for mental health resources.

The PIRC is generously supported by funding from the Anne B. LaRussa Foundation of Hope, United Way of Central Alabama, the Daniel Foundation of Alabama and the Walker Area Community Foundation.

(251) 208-1600 www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Reelin’ In the New Year NYE Street Party

@ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Reel in 2022 with us at The Wharf for our New Year’s Eve Street Party. Live bands, family friendly and adult-centered fun all rounding off at midnight with our marlin drop and fireworks. Resolutions are for the start of the month. Give yourself one last excuse to let loose! Admission is free. 5pm-Midnight (251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com MBP

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Whether you’re a Black Friday enthusiast or hater, there are ample ways to cash in on super holiday savings throughout the season. So follow these tips for deep discounts on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and beyond.

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

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MORE HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIPS

Subscribe to store email lists. Decide on which stores you want to shop at least a couple of weeks in advance. Then visit each store’s website, and subscribe to their email list. Early signup will ensure you receive all promotional emails for the season’s big Black Friday and Cyber Monday events as well as ongoing savings right on through Christmas Eve.

Arrange your finances in advance. If you intend to pay by credit card, plan well in advance, so the credit is available to you. Use your credit cards that offer cash back or reward points to increase your savings. If paying with a debit card, check your balance before you head out to avoid an unwelcome surprise. Also, avoid carrying cash in chaotic crowds because of the increased risk of pickpockets and purse-snatchers.

Buy discounted gift cards. Visit Raise.com, and order discounted gift cards for the stores you know you’ll purchase from. You can use these cards to buy sale and special-buy items for added savings. The caveat, make sure the gift cards are for stores you’ll definitely shop at, so you don’t blow your savings. Discounted gift cards also make great gifts.

Leave the kids at home. The chaos of the holiday shopping

season, especially Black Friday, poses risks to children. Although the chance is slim, there’s the potential risk of trampling by crazed crowds on Black Friday. Your child could also get lost among the mob. Besides, shopping for long hours is stressful and exhausting for kids. Not to mention, it’ll increase your own stress level and deplete your energy.

Begin collecting Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals that show up in your newspaper, mailbox, and email. Also, visit your favorite stores online a few days in advance to see what kind of deals they’ll offer. Print any coupons you find. Then store them together in a safe place.

Avoid carts. On Black Friday, carry shopping bags or totes in-

stead unless you plan to buy heavy items. Carts will slow you down through crowds that are unwilling to budge for you.

Organize for the big day. Once you’ve collected all the deals, sort through, and match them up to your holiday shopping list. Compare deals, and determine when the sales or doorbusters begin and if there’ll be limited quantities. Then strategize. If you can’t stand in line for hours for a limited quantity doorbuster, skip it, and focus on other deals that are easier to fetch.

Hold off on toy purchases. Black Friday doesn’t offer the best deals on toys. The first week of December usually provides much more significant savings on these items.

Prepare a ‘second-best’ list. You can’t be everywhere at

to people who ‘like’ them on Facebook or other social media. Check the social media accounts of the stores you plan to shop at.

Use social media for extra savings. Many retailers offer exclusive coupons and discounts

once, and you’re sure to miss a deal or two. So prepare for that possibility and know where to go and what to look for as an alternative.

Check on return policies. Most major retailers have liberal return policies. But not all. So do your homework before you make purchases. Also, ask for gift receipts to make exchanges and returns easy for your gift recipients.

Watch for early bird freebies. Many stores offer free gifts to the first 25 or 100 people in their store. It’s true, there are some pretty nice prizes to be had. But many will require you to arrive well before the crack of dawn and spend hours waiting in line. Before you succumb to these lures, consider whether it’s worth the risk of losing out on savings elsewhere.

Avoid impulse buying. Many shoppers’ savings go right down the drain because they grab unnecessary ‘great buys’ at the spur of the moment. So prepare yourself mentally for the temptation before you head out.

Black Friday isn’t always the best day for hot bargains. So do your research. Stores tout their Black Friday

Get extra savings with instant store credit. Most

deals to get consumers into a buying frenzy early in the season. Some even offer their super deals on Thanksgiving evening and start to reduce prices on Wednesday. Keep in mind, all those Black Friday deals can also often be found online on Cyber Monday. In fact, many hot deals, and some better deals stretch well into December.

stores offer 10 to 25% savings by opening a store credit card at checkout. If you pay your charges off immediately and don’t use it for unnecessary purchases, it’s well worth the savings. Otherwise, the long-term cost of interest will exceed the savings you gained.

Make sure a sale is really a sale. Some stores mark up

merchandise before they reduce it to make it look like a great bargain. Furniture stores, in particular, are known for this tactic. But many other stores do it as well on select merchandise. So do your homework.

Shop late in the day. If you’re like many, you wouldn’t even consider shopping on Black Friday simply because of the chaos. But on Black Friday, the vast majority of shoppers start at the crack of dawn or earlier. By 5 p.m., early birds are exhausted, and malls and stores are dead quiet. So Black Friday evening is a great time to get in some peaceful, early shopping with plenty of great deals still going on.

Forego extended warranties. With a few exceptions,

extended warranties are a waste of money. Most electronics already come with a limited manufacturer’s warranty. Defects usually show up within the scope of the manufacturer’s warranty. Accidental damage that might be covered under a store’s extended warranty tends to occur rarely. Cell phones or small personal electronics people carry with them that are likely to get dropped, lost, or run through the washing machine are the exception. MBP

Shop online. This is another option if you don’t want to participate in the madhouse. Many stores offer the same deals online as they do in their stores. In fact, many online stores don’t even have storefronts. Keep in mind, supplies are often limited, even online. So by the time you reach checkout, an item in your basket might be sold out. If you’re shopping for multiple items from a store, do multiple checkouts, so the items in your basket don’t disappear while you shop.

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online bookshop, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-ofprint, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera and more at sagerarebooks.com. 39

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FamilyCalendar Daily November 1 - January 14 SUBZERO: Discovering Life Among the Ice Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government St. Mobile, AL, 36602 Visitors will engage in an interactive journey from the Arctic to Antarctica as they discover the worlds of the coldest places on Earth. Slip and Slide Sock Skating Rink. Guests will be able to skip the skates and enjoy a wintertime tradition not often experienced in the South, wearing only socks. (251) 208-6893 www.exploreum.com/exhibits/ special/

football & basketball games of the week on every first and third Friday of the month. Come out and enjoy free food, drinks, dj, games and activities, and more! Breakthrough Teens! For Teens Ages 13-19! https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/ Alabama Pecan Festival Tillman’s Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL, 36619 This familyoriented festival features a carnival atmosphere with rides, food, face painting, arts and crafts, live music, antique car show, and

Tuesday November 1

USA Jazz Ensemble Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/mas.html Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, AL, 36608 The Greater Gulf State Fair offers fun and entertainment for the whole family! Visit the website for a list of entertainment, specials and much more! www.greatergulfstatefair.com

Wednesday November 2

USA Brass Ensembles Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/mas.html Greater Gulf State Fair Details on November 1.

Thursday November 3

Elite88 Goes to the Opera (Free) 7:00 PM University of Mobile - Alabama School of the Arts, 5735 College Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36613 The Elite88 Piano Ensemble will take you through a historic musical journey as they present iconic tunes from your favorite Operas! USA Piano Ensembles Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/mas.html Greater Gulf State Fair Details on November 1.

Friday November 4

Leanne Morgan 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Grab tickets to see comedian Leanne Morgan LIVE at the Mobile Saenger Theatre. https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Sunny Side Theatre and Drama Camp Productions present “Heathers” 7:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 S Carlen St Mobile, AL, 36606 Sunny Side Theatre and Drama Camp Productions present “Heathers”. Rated PG-13 for content and language https://our.show/sst/heathers Breakthrough Teens: 5th Quarter 9:00 PM Figures Community Center, 658 Donald Street Mobile, AL “The Kick Back” following the high school

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

more. Free Admission. www.alabamapecanfestival.com Greater Gulf State Fair Details on November 1.

Saturday November 5

Greater Gulf State Fair Details on November 1.

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Thursday November 10

Alabama Pecan Festival Details on November 4.

Beach, Dune, and Maritime Forest Excursion ($12 per person) 9:45 AM Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 102 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 USA Flute Choir & Celtic Crúe Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/mas.html Kevin Hart 8:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, Mobile, AL, 36602 Live Nation Presents The Reality Check Tour https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

2022 Mobile Heart Walk 9:00 AM USA Mitchell Center Moulton Bell Tower, 307 N University Blvd Mobile, AL, 36688 Join your friends and neighbors and be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. https://www2.heart.org/

Friday November 11

Saturday STEAMCamp 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Alabama School of Math And Science, 1255 Dauphin St Mobile, AL, 36604 STEAMCamp - Current K-3rd Graders, Alabama School of Math and Science, Makerspace Building https://www.steamcampforkids.com/asms/

Art Soup 6:00 PM Joachim Street between Dauphin and Conti Mobile, AL, 36602 Enjoy live jazz from the Mystic Order of the Jazz Obsessed (MOJO), soups, desserts, and beverages from local restaurants, and of course, beautiful artwork from area artists. https://www.downtownmobile.org/events/art-soup

Seward Farms Corn Maze and Fall Fun 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Seward Farms, 10836 Tanner Williams Road Lucedale, MS, 39452 You’ll find tons of family fun, fresh air, twisting corn maze, fantastic food, and an evening by a crackling fire! We have a challenging corn maze, pig races, hayrides, funny farm golf, cow train, giant jumping pillow, corn cannon, farm animals, field of fright ,pony rides and more. Hours: Open: Saturdays: 10am-6pm, Field Trips by reservations Monday-Thursday www.sewardfarms.com Greek Fest Charity Gala 6:00 PM 50 South Ann Street Mobile, AL, 36604 251-438-9888 www.greekfestcharitygala.com Sunny Side Theatre and Drama Camp Productions present “Heathers” 7:00 PM Details on November 4. Alabama Pecan Festival Details on November 4. Greater Gulf State Fair Details on November 1.

Sunday November 6

Sunny Side Theatre and Drama Camp Productions present “Heathers” 2:00 PM Details on November 4. Boots & BBQ Barn Bash 6:30 PM Moe’s Original BBQ, 701 Springhill Avenue Mobile, AL Children’s of Alabama’s ninth annual Boots and BBQ Barn Bash will help provide funding for pediatric rheumatologist Dr. Melissa Mannion to hold clinic in Mobile to treat the many children along the Gulf Coast suffering from autoimmune disorders such as pediatric rheumatoid arthritis. https://www.facebook.com/ootsBBQBarnBash?fref=ts

Science Lab Fridays: Ocean Animal Biology 9:30 AM Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Sea Lab Science Fridays: Ocean Animal Biology

Veterans Day Concert 7:00 PM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 Join the Mobile Pops at the USS Alabama Battleship Park as we perform our Veterans Day Concert. USA Opera Theatre Fall Scenes Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/mas.html

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Saturdays at the Coop 7:00 PM Cooper Riverside Park, 101 S Water St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for a night of free familyfriendly fun! Performance by Hollywood Vagabonds. https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/ Aaron Lewis - The Frayed At Both Ends Tour 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Get ticket to see Staind frontman Aaron Lewis at the Mobile Saenger Theatre on Saturday, November 12th! https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Sunday November 13

Battleship 12K 8:00 AM USS Battleship Memorial Parkway, Mobile, AL, 36602 The Battleship 12K, a patriotic run to honor those who have served, was started in 2015 as a way to pay tribute to those heroes who defend our freedom. www.battleship12k.com

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FamilyCalendar USA Opera Theatre presents Fall Scenes Concert 3:00 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/mas.html

Michael Torke. Works by Aaron Copland complete the American theme. www.mobilesymphony.org

Tuesday November 15

Jubilee Renaissance Faire Details on November 19.

Mobile Retired Educators Association 10:00 AM Via Health, Fitness and Enrichment Center, 1717 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 36604 10:00 – 10:30 Meet & Greet ~ 10:30 – 12:00 Meeting ~ 12:00 Lunch Program with Jill E. Jackson, AERA Executive Director USA Wind Ensemble Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/mas.html

Thursday November 17

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

Friday November 18

Breakthrough Teens: 5th Quarter 9:00 PM Dotch Community Center , 3100 Bank Avenue Mobile, AL “The Kick Back” following the high school football & basketball games of the week on every first and third Friday of the month. Come out and enjoy free food, drinks, dj, games and activities, and more! Breakthrough Teens! For Teens Ages 13-19! https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Saturday November 19

2nd Annual Dia-BEAT IT: Diabetes 5K Run/ Fun Walk 9:00 AM Tricentennial Park, 2121 Lake Dr Mobile, AL, 36607 The objective of the Dia-BEAT IT walk is to provide education and hands-on ways to help prevent individuals from developing diabetes and provide information and resources to those living with the disease. www.GeminiStudioz.com/diabeteswalk 38th Annual Mobile International Festival 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 The festival provides the ambiance of world travel, and it gives the opportunity to meet people from over 70 countries, a change to speak different languages, sample some delicious food, learn geography, history and more. www.mobileinternationalfestival.org Jubilee Renaissance Faire 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, The Medieval Village, 30569 Osprey Lane Robertsdale, AL, 36567 Enjoy Medieval Games of Skill, such as Archery or Axe throwing. War Horse rides, a Falconry demonstration and other live animal exhibitions. The main event will be a real full contact Jousting Tournament. 10am-5pm. www.jubileerenaissancefaire.com Beethoven & Blue Jeans - Sky 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Our annual casual concert features Beethoven’s 7th Symphony, and Tessa Lark plays a bluegrass-inspired violin concerto written for her by

Sunday November 20 Beethoven & Blue Jeans - Sky 2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Our annual casual concert features Beethoven’s 7th Symphony, and Tessa Lark plays a bluegrassinspired violin concerto written for her by Michael Torke. Works by Aaron Copland complete the American theme. www.mobilesymphony.org

Monday November 21

Iron Bowl Legends Benefit Gala 6:00 PM Battle House Hotel, 26 N Royal St Mobile, AL, 36602 The Palmer Williams Group is hosting its Sixth Annual Iron Bowl Legends Benefit Gala with Special Guest Speaker Joey Jones, on November 21st, 2022, at the Battle House Hotel. The purpose of this event is to raise funds to support our efforts in offering free youth entrepreneurship programs within the Mobile and Baldwin County Public School system. https://bit.ly/3Blych7 USA Woodwind Ensembles Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/mas.html

Friday November 25

Friday Night Live 7:00 PM Arlington Park, 1705 Broad Street Mobile, AL, 36615 Join us on November 25th for this free evening of Live Music and Family-Friendly Fun at Arlington Park! https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events/fridaynight-live-2

Saturday November 26

Iron Bowl Block Party 1:00 PM Downtown Mobile, 500 Dauphin St Mobile, AL, 36602 Let’s Pre-Game at this Family-Friendly Party with the band FALSE IDENTITY before watching your favorite team on a Jumbo HD LED Screen! Enjoy a live DJ playing during TV time outs! Opportunity to win prizes for best-dressed most spirited fans! Check out local restaurants and bars! 1 pm www.MobileParksAndRec.org

Sunday November 27

Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza! 4:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza! Mickey, Minnie, and their pals are getting ready to throw a huge costume party but mysterious green rain, wind, and smoke keep interrupting the fun. Can Spidey and his Amazing Friends help save the Costume Palooza? https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Wednesday November 30

Blue’s Clues & You! Live On Stage 6:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Blue’s Clues & You! Live on Stage

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FamilyCalendar is an epic new theatrical adventure coming soon to Mobile! https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Thursday December 1

Annual Hargrove Gala 6:00 PM Mobile Convention Center , Mobile, AL, 36602 Annual Hargrove Gala https://hargrovefoundation.org/2022-foundation-gala

Friday December 2

Sea Lab Science Friday: STEM: The Ocean Version 9:30 AM Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 102 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Sea Lab Science Friday: STEM: The Ocean Version https://bit.ly/SeaLabScienceFridays Joe Jefferson Players present “Rent” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Mobile, AL, 36606 joejeffersonplayers.com Black Violin 8:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr, Mobile, AL, 36602 Black Violin is an American hip hop duo from Fort Lauderdale, Florida comprising two classically trained string instrumentalists, Kevin Sylvester and Wilner Baptiste, who go by the stage names Kev Marcus and Wil B. Kev Marcus plays the violin, and Wil B. plays the viola. https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/ Breakthrough Teens: 5th Quarter 9:00 PM James Seals Community Center, 540 Texas Street Mobile, AL “The Kick Back” following the high school football & basketball games of the week on every first and third Friday of the month. Come out and enjoy free food, drinks, dj, games and activities, and more! Breakthrough Teens! For Teens Ages 13-19! https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Saturday December 3

Toy Drive/Run and Pancake Breakfast for RMHC of Mobile 9:30 AM Mobile Bay Harley-Davidson, 3260 Pleasant Valley Rd Mobile, AL, 36606 Please join us for a pancake breakfast and Toy Run to benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile. From 9:30am-11 we will be serving a pancake breakfast and have live music. KSU at 11:30 to deliver the toys to the Ronald McDonald House. Please bring a new unwrapped toy to donate. Joe Jefferson Players present “Rent” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Mobile, AL, 36606 joejeffersonplayers.com The Fab Four 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Emmy Award-Winning Fab Four is elevated far above every other Beatles Tribute due to their precise attention to detail. https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Sunday December 4

Joe Jefferson Players present “Rent” 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Mobile, AL, 36606 joejeffersonplayers.com Nate Bargatze: The Raincheck Tour 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Nate Bargatze: The Raincheck Tour https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

Friday December 9

Every Wednesday

Beach, Dune, and Maritime Forest Excursion ($12 per person) 9:45 AM Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 102 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Beach, Dune, and Maritime Forest Excursion

Wonderful Wednesday Storytime 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM, Theodore Oaks, 5808 US-90 West E Theodore, AL Join us for stories and songs and lots of fun! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Joe Jefferson Players present “Rent” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Mobile, AL, 36606 joejeffersonplayers.com

Good Listener Storytime at Semmes 10:30 AM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Join us for stories, songs, and dances! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Saturday December 10

Cast Iron Cookoff: A Surf ‘n Turf Battle at the Fort 11:00 AM Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The Bama-Q Cast iron Skillet Challenge will feature 30 top cook teams creating their best “surf & turf” dish as well as sampling tasty seafood bites in a Peoples Choice contest. www.eventbrite.com/e/bama-q-cast-iron-battleat-fort-gaines-competitor-registration-tickets-349476101427 Mobile Book Expo 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 1260 Dauphin St Mobile, AL, 36604 We aim to provide opportunities for authors to present and sell their books, network with other authors, and learn more about their writing craft. Saturdays at the Coop 7:00 PM Cooper Riverside Park, 101 S Water St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for a night of free familyfriendly fun! Performance by Stormfolk and DJ Blayze. https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Friday December 16

Who’s Bad - Michael Jackson Experience 7:30 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr, Mobile, AL, 36602 https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Every Monday

Chess Club 4:00 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us every Monday to learn the game or improve your skill at the game of chess! Playing chess improves concentration and problem-solving skills. This program is designed or for children and teens ages 12-18, but children of all ages are welcome. (251) 340-1588 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Tuesday

Read and Play Storytime 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us in Bernheim Hall for a socially distant storytime event. Masks are required. Children enjoy 20 minutes of books, songs, manipulatives, and rhymes, with an emphasis on repetition for their developing minds. Story and book time is followed by a time of free play with a sensory activity. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Science Sprouts 10:30 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Science Sprouts: A Health and Nutrition class for our growing scientist! Every Tuesday from 10:30-11:00 a.m. in the iHealthy lab with Ms. Savannah. Included in General Admission. Free for Exploreum members. www.exploreum.com

Little Discoveries 10:30 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Every Wednesday from 10:30-11:00 am in the Wharf of Wonder with Mr. Wayne. Included in General Admission. Free for Exploreum members. www.exploreum.com Read and Sign (ASL) Storytime at West Regional Library 11:00 AM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room for books, songs, sign language and for ages 3 - 5! (251) 340-1588 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Teen Anime Hangout at Ben May Main Library 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us upstairs at the Ben May Main Library Teen Hangout to enjoy anime, video games, and snacks. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Wonderful Wednesdays at West Regional 4:00 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join Mr. Dave in the Children’s Room every Wednesday. Each week will feature an engaging activity to make your Wednesday wonderful! This program is best suited for ages 6 - 11 (251) 340-1588 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Good Listener Storytime at Moorer Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Early reading ignites creativity, sparks curiosity, and stimulates the imagination in young children. This half-hour program is designed to help promote their passion for learning. For your convenience, the program is offered at three different times on Wednesdays: 10am, 11:30am, and 1:30pm choose the time that works best for you! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wednesday and Thursday

Shake, Rattle, & Read Storytime at West Regional Library 10:00 AM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room every Wednesday and Thursday morning at 10:00 a.m. for this storytime program designed for infants and children up to age three. Help stimulate their early literacy skills and enjoy meeting other parents! (251) 340-1588 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Second Wednesday

Learning Lunch (Free) 12:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This series allows guests to enjoy free presentations on a wide range of historical and cultural topics. Admission to Learning Lunch is free. Bring your lunch and enjoy complimentary beverages. 251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Every Thursday

Small Wonders 10:30 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Every Thursday from 10:30-11:00 am in the

www.mobilebayparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Science Squad Headquarters with Ms. Olivia. Included in General Admission. Free for Exploreum members. www.exploreum.com Chess Club 4:00 PM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Mobile, AL, 36608 Semmes Regional Library Chess Club is designed for children and teens ages 6 - 18. Playing chess improves concentration and problemsolving skills. No experience is necessary www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Steam Club 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join the club and explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) with hands-on activities that get kids thinking and building! STEAM Club meets each Thursday at 4:00 p.m in the Youth Programming Room at Ben May Main Library. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

ery Friday from 10:30-11:00 am in the Nature Pavilion and the Moorer Courtyard with Ms. Charise. Included in General Admission. Free for Exploreum members. www.exploreum.com

Every Second Friday

Saturdays thru November 19

Create it, Build it, Play it! at Grand Bay 4:00 PM Grand Bay Library, 10329 Freeland Ave Grand Bay, AL, 36541 Join us in the Meeting Room every other Thursday in for some fun with crafts and activities! Get creative and have fun with other people that love arts and crafts! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

www.MobileParksAndRec.org

Every Friday

Every Saturday

Little Explorers 10:30 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Exploring the world one tiny step at a time. Ev-

Saturday Crafternoon 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM, Theodore Oaks, 5808 US-90 West E Theodore, AL, 36582 Join us in the lobby every Saturday to get creative and make a fun craft! If you need additional information, please email the Theodore Oaks Branch Circulation desk at theocir@ mplonline.org or call (251) 662-9676. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

LoDA Artwalk 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Celebrating the arts in downtown Mobile! Explore this free monthly showcase of visual and performing arts. mobilearts.org/art-walk/

Every other Thursday

- 5 years old and their caregivers. Simple stories and music introduce the sounds and rhythms of language and play to your little learner. Crafts introduce social skills, motor skills, and problem solving skills. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Fall Market in the Park - Saturdays in Cathedral Square 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Shop local for seasonal fresh fruits, local produce, vegetables, seafood, baked goods, jams/ jellies, original art, decor and more from 7:30am-noon.

Family Story & Craft Time at Ben May Library 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Enjoy stories, crafts, and making new friends! This program is best suited for children 3

Every First Sunday

Free First Sunday - History Museum of Mobile

(Free) 1:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal

Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Free admission for all visitors sponsored by Wind Creek Hospitality every first Sunday of the month! 251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

First and third Sundays

Animal Ambassadors 2:00 PM Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at 2 PM as we present one or more of our live educational animals. Free, family friendly, no registration required. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

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Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases Lyle, Lyle Crocodile

Theaters

Rating PG

Overall A

Violence B

Sex A

Profanity A-

Alcohol/Drugs B

The Primm family have just moved into a New York City brownstone and are astonished to discover a singing crocodile living in the attic. Young Josh befriends the musical reptile and soon they all band together to stop a crotchety neighbor from having Lyle sent to a zoo. This film is a win for families, featuring appealing characters, memorable original songs, and exciting adventures. There’s too much peril for preschoolers, but older kids will enjoy this fun, light, heartwarming film – and even parents will have more fun than they expect. Photo ©Columbia Pictures

Railway Children

Theaters

Rating PG

Overall B+

Violence B

Sex A

Profanity B+

Alcohol/Drugs A

As German bombs fall on British cities, children are evacuated to the countryside for safety. Lily, Pattie and Ted find themselves in Yorkshire, befriended by Bobbie, the son of their host family. As Bobbie shares his favorite hideouts, the kids stumble across an American deserter and get sucked into the quagmire of American racial conflict. This period film is a generationals sequel to a classic British children’s novel but it is very much a film about American issues. It’s more than a bit preachy and the kids indulge in risky behavior, but the movie’s heart is in the right place. Photo © Blue Fox Entertainment

Rosaline

Hulu

Rating PG-13

Overall B

Violence B+

Sex B+

Profanity C

Alcohol/Drugs C

Rosaline is horrified to discover that her boyfriend – the guy who has given her jewelry and written poetry for her – has fallen in love with her younger cousin. Refusing to give up without a fight, Rosaline turns her sharp mind to the goal of breaking up Romeo and Juliet. More than a little bit goofy, this adaptation of Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy is a laugh-out-loud comedy that refuses to take itself seriously – and that’s why it works. This fast-paced farce could change teens’ minds about the merits of reading classic literature. Photo ©Hulu

Catherine, Called Birdy

Amazon

Rating PG-13

Overall B-

Violence B-

Sex B-

Profanity C

Alcohol/Drugs C

Desperate to keep his manor afloat, spendthrift Lord Rollo decides that his best option is to marry off his 14 year old daughter for gold. But Catherine a.k.a. Birdy has other ideas and is stubborn and devious enough to thwart her father. Based on an award-winning novel, this film veers between ahistoric comedy and strong messages about female autonomy and the evils of child marriage. The film is often funny, despite the anachronisms, but it also lacks subtlety. Photo ©Amazon Studios

Mr. Harrigan’s Phone

Netflix

Rating PG-13

Overall B-

Violence C

Sex A

Profanity C-

Alcohol/Drugs B-

Paid to read to Mr. Harrigan, Craig soon warms to the enigmatic elderly man. He even persuades the technophobic senior to start using a cell phone. Upon Mr. Harrigan’s unsurprising death, Craig tucks the phone into the casket – only to start receiving texts from it. This adaptation of a Stephen King story is a great choice for teens who want a good scare but don’t want lots of gore or sexual material. It’s eerie and creepy but eschews violence in favor of steadily mounting tension. Photo ©Netflix

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2022

Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com 44

www.mobilebayparents.com

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November is a month-long celebration throughout OWA! Stop by Downtown OWA for a Brandon Styles Variety and Magic Show (see dates/showtimes online), Clash eSports’ All You Can Play Mondays or the Tropic Takeover Super Smash Bros Tournament, Nov. 12-13. The Holidays take center stage Nov. 19 with our majestic Tree Lighting in Downtown OWA. Catch incredible deals on Black Friday, Nov. 25! Plan your celebration at VisitOWA.com!

THRILL, THEN CHILL.