Mobile Bay Parents October 2016 by KeepSharing

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October 23, 2016 PM COSTUMES

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USA CHILDREN’S & WOMEN’S HOSPITAL

COURTYARD 1700 Center Street | Mobile, Alabama 36604

October2016

Volume 6 Number 5

34 Columns

Mom of the Month 4

Living With Children John Rosemond

Growing Up Online

Discover 10 ways the web can help thrifty families. You’ll find numerous websites for saving!

5 Dinner Time Conversation Starters These easy games will get your family talking around the table!

Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Understanding the Zika Virus The Zika virus has been getting a lot of attention recently, and with good reason. Some have a good grasp on what to worry about regarding the Zika virus and how to protect themselves. Still, many don’t understand the virus; they just know they should be nervous. Currently, many states have reported at least one Zika case from infection as a result of travel, but Miami is currently the only location in the United States that has confirmed Zika-infected mosquitos. Miami is working to eliminate these mosquitos and stop any local epidemic. Contrary to the popular belief, the Zika virus is not new. It was first discovered in 1947 in Uganda. It did not get much attention until recently because prior to the twenty-second century, it had stayed in a relatively narrow area in Africa and Asia. In 2015, there were several infants born with brain abnormalities and small, deformed heads. After research, it was discovered that the common denominator among these cases was each mother had been infected with Zika virus during pregnancy. Before 2007, the Zika virus was not spreading quickly. Between 1947-2007, there were only 14 confirmed cases. Since April of 2015, there have been 3,500 cases of microcephaly (small heads) in newborns linked to this virus. Most of these cases have been in Central

and South America, which is also a change in the virus from pre-2007. The virus is not of a huge concern to non-pregnant people. It is spread primarily through infected mosquitos. However, we have also learned that it can spread through sexual contact or from a mother to her unborn child. If non-pregnant people are infected, the symptoms are usually mild. Symptoms range from fever, joint pain, rash, and red eyes to headache and muscle pain. Some are even asymptomatic. The vast majority of the time, the symptoms are mild enough to not require hospitalization or any long-term treatment. The biggest concern with the Zika virus has been in newborns who were infected while the mother was still pregnant. It’s still such a new discovery in terms of transmission that medical professionals are unclear about how to protect women of childbearing age. In other words, all of these newborns have been affected within the last year. There have been a wide range of defects, and it is still unclear which trimester proves to be the riskiest for transmission of the virus in utero. For this reason, the current recommendation is for all women who are pregnant- or

who are of childbearing age- to avoid the Zikaexposed areas and use extra caution. The other difficulty in talking about realistic preventative measures is that testing has shown that men can still transmit the virus to their female partners for up to 6 months after being infected. Women can shed the virus for three months after being infected. Experts are still not sure why this discrepancy exists, but it is recommended further that men whose partners are pregnant or may become pregnant also protect themselves from the Zika virus. As always, the best way to protect yourself is to stay up-to-date on the news. The CDC is constantly monitoring Zika-infected areas and posting them on their website. Check the website before traveling. If you absolutely must travel to an area that is currently at-risk for the Zika virus, wear long sleeves, long pants, and use bug spray to try and deter mosquitos from biting you. Jennifer Adair, M.D., was born and raised in Mobile. She graduated from Davidson High School in 2002 and received her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at The University of Alabama in 2006. She completed her medical training at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine, and pediatric residency at the University of Nevada College of Medicine – Las Vegas and the University of South Alabama. She joined Children’s Medical Group in July 2013 and currently practices at their Airport office. Jennifer and her husband, Cory, reside in Mobile with their dogs, Fitz and Barkley.

Providence Office 610 Providence Park Dr. E., Suite 201 Mobile, Alabama, 36695 (251) 639-1300 Karen I. Calametti, M.D. Jonathan Holmes, M.D. Catherine W. Huettemann, M.D. Richard E. Huettemann, M.D. Deborah A. Kassner, M.D. Elizabeth S. Weinacker, M.D. Airport Office 3920 Airport Boulevard Mobile, Alabama, 36608 (251) 342-3810 Jennifer G. Adair, M.D. Savannah I. Browning, M.D. Matthew Cepeda, M.D. Michael Little, D.O. Lisa McDonough, M.D. Faye Roberts, M.D. Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

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Autauga County Schools

MGM Advanced Placement Students Honored

MGM is proud to honor 15 Advanced Placement students. AP Scholars are students who have received scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams. We have 10 students in this category: Haley Barnes, Jacob Cassity, Matthew Cochrane, Brantley Cook, Carah Covington, David Drake, Anna Duren, Amanda Gooch, Haylee Richoux, and Ariel Scott. AP Scholars with Honors are students who have received scores of 3 or higher on four or more exams with at least a 3.25 on all AP exams. We have 5 students in this category: Melissa Chan, Shelton Graham, Chase Shoub, and Trinity Stroud. Most of these students are 2016 graduates and are enrolled in post- secondary schools, but those still on campus were treated to breakfast in their honor. Congratulations to these scholars; we are proud of you. Pictured: Trinity Stroud, Amanda Gooch, Brantley Cook, Shelton Graham, Ariel Scott, and Anna Duren.

Murphy HS Students Develop App to Promote Volunteer Opportunities for Students

Two Murphy High students were part of a team that placed second at Startup Weekend last month, and some students from B.C. Rain pitched an idea that placed in the top 10. Murphy juniors Paul Lockett and Jordan Jones teamed with students from ASMS and UMSWright (pictured) on the secondplace team to develop and pitch an app called SERV, or Students Engaging in Revolutionary Volunteerism, which allows high school students to see opportunities for volunteer service and track their volunteer hours, as well as sharing scholarship opportunities.

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U.S. Representative Visits Dodge Elementary

On September 27, U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne visited with students at Dodge Elementary school. He talked to the students about the importance of the United States Constitution. He told the students how it was crafted during the Constitutional Convention and how the Bill of Rights contains some of America’s most important liberties. Pictured are Ms. Leffard’s fourth grade PACE class with Bradley Byrne. Dodge teacher Janet Leffard invited Byrne to speak to students as part of an effort she has made over the last couple of years to teach students more about the United States Constitution. Dodge students have hosted a bell-ringing ceremony at the school for the last two years on Sept. 17 – the anniversary of the signing of the historic document.

Bright Beginnings Academy to Host 4th Annual LEGO Night

Bright Beginnings Academy is hosting its’ 4th annual LEGO competition event on Thursday, October 6 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Creekwood Church of Christ located at 1901 Schillinger Rd. South. A cake decorating competition is added to this year’s agenda. Children between the ages of 5 and 13 may participate in either competition. Sonny’s BBQ is preparing the meal, which includes a pork sandwich, macaroni & cheese, chips, and tea. Admission is $10 for one child to participate in either the LEGO competition or the cake decorating competition. A meal is included with the child’s admission ticket. Additional entries may be purchased for either event (LEGO or cake decorating). The cost is $3 for the additional entry. Admission for non-participants is $7 which includes admission into this one of a kind evening, as well as, an excellent meal provided by Sonny’s BBQ. Please feel free to contact us for more information at (251) 525-9105. Come join us for a fabulous time. Your kids will love it!

Anti-Drug Bus Visits Dauphin Island Elementary

The Dauphin Island Elementary School 5th grade class enjoyed a visit from Seldon Byrd, Drug Education Coordinator for Mobile Infirmary Health. Mr. Byrd drove his famous “Anti-Drug Bus”. Students boarded the bus to learn facts about the short-term and long-term dangers of drug use. Thank you, Mobile Infirmary Health and Mr. Byrd for caring so much about our students! Pictured is 5th grade teacher Mrs. Penny Lamonte and Mr. Byrd, standing with the 5th grade students. Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

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6th Annual “Chip in for Autism” Golf Tournament

The sixth annual “Chip in for Autism” Golf Tournament to benefit The Learning Tree’s Woody’s Song School is planned for Friday, October 21, at the Azalea City Golf Course in Mobile. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 1:00 p.m. Registration is $60 per player, which includes a bucket of range balls, tournament round, cart and dinner. Dinner will follow the tournament provided by Naman’s Catering. Currently one in 68 children are diagnosed with a form of autism (Center for Disease Control, 2014). Autism is a complex developmental disability typically appearing during the first three years of a child’s life, as the result of a neurological disorder affecting normal functioning of the brain. The need for services has grown rapidly with the increased prevalence of autism. The Learning Tree is a nonprofit organization providing educational and residential services for children with developmental disabilities, including autism. Woody’s Song School, a non-traditional, year-round school, offers children a unique educational program focusing on increasing skills in the areas of language, socialization and cognition, while decreasing behaviors that interfere with learning. For tournament registration information or sponsorship opportunities, contact Cindy Fulford at 251-656-0070 or cfulford@voase.org or Teresa Atkins at 251-331-2633 or tatkins@learning-tree.org.

2016-2017 E.R. Dickson Safety Patrol The E.R. Dickson Safety Patrol consists of 5th grade students who help to keep our campus a safe place for everyone. They are posted around the school to help students follow the rules. In the afternoon, they assist with carpool dismissal. The 5th grade teachers then recommend students based upon their dependability, conduct, and attendance. Congratulations to the 2016-2017 E.R. Dickson Safety Patrol! Front Row: Mohand Nafea, Lillian Hicks, Aidan Mendoza, Anthony Tran, Emily Boggan. Second Row: Brantley Stevens, Annalee Parks, Jennifer Horton, Jasmine Washington, Chloe Pratt, Bradley Seale, Jamie Purifoy, Madison Tilliman. Third Row: Summer Davis (Sponsor), Yousef Alazzeh, Angelina Boyd, Emily Rivas, Aniya Perry-Reese, Amari Moran, Kayla Brooks, Joseph Richardson, Shannon Mayo, Teagan Morgan, Madison Ladd, Mary White (Sponsor).

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Autauga County Schools

St. Luke's Holds Honor Code Pledge Ceremony

Each year students at St. Luke's Episcopal School hold an Honor Code Pledge Ceremony. The members of the Honor Council lead the ceremony on both campuses. Students in grades 1-12 hear from their peers, their teachers and others, what HONOR is and why the St. Luke's Honor Code is important. Honor Council Members are sworn in during the ceremony and take the lead in signing that year's Honor Code Pledge Card. Seniors and fifth graders demonstrated their leadership and commitment as well by signing their name to the Honor Code Pledge Card in front of all the other students. After each assembly, students and teachers returned to their classrooms in silence as they sign their names to the pledge card. These class pledges, signed by the students, will be displayed in each classroom throughout the year.

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Revelation Christian School Celebrates Grandparents

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Grandparents have a special place in our hearts! Revelation Christian School celebrated their grandparents on Thursday, September 8th with a tasty lunch! It was well attended and enjoyed by both the students and grandparents!

Archbishop Rodi Visits St. Pius X Catholic School

Archbishop Rodi joined the St. Pius X Catholic School to celebrate Mass on Friday, September 2. After celebrating Mass the archbishop visited each classroom and gave cupcakes, along with an extra recess period, to the student body.

St. Dominic Catholic School Students Make Pledges

Grade 8 students at St. Dominic Catholic School pledged to serve the school, as student leaders, with pride and loyalty while being faithful followers of Jesus Christ and striving to imitate His example. Each student received a soaring eagle pin as a symbol of the promises they made.

St. Mary Catholic First Day of School Smiles

St. Mary Catholic kicked off the new 2016-2017 School Year on August 17. From the "Boo-Hoo" Breakfast for the kindergarten

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parents to that "last first day" of elementary school for the eighth graders, the year promises to be a great one for all students from PreK3 through 8th grade. Pictured: St. Mary Middle School boys ready for a great new year! Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

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St. Mary Catholic School Holds Prayer Service, Remembers Sept. 11

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St. Mary Catholic School held a prayer service and classroom flag blessing on September 9 in memory of the lives that were lost in the tragic attacks on our nation September 11, 2001. The 9 a.m. Mass on Sunday, September 11 also served as a memorial Mass. St. Mary Parish asks all to pray for The United States and continue to keep the victims’ families and loved ones in your prayers.

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

Students Greet New Teachers at Little Flower Catholic School

It is customary for teachers to greet new students at the beginning of the school year. At Little Flower Catholic School, students take on the task of making new teachers feel welcomed and at home. Students Edy Gael (left) and Joseph Pierre (third from left) welcome their new science teacher, Mr. Colby Griffin and their new social studies and religion teacher, Ms. Helen Maduka. This is Mr. Griffin's first year to teach, and Ms. Maduka is learning the ropes as a first year ACE teacher at Little Flower.

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Autauga County Schools Kindergarten / Senior Big Buddy Program

The Cottage Hill Christian Academy Big Buddy Program kicked off with a meet and greet luncheon at the Lower School. Kindergarten students were introduced to their senior buddies and enjoyed getting to know them over lunch. After lunch, the buddies completed a get-to-know-you questionnaire, enjoyed popsicles on the playground, and had a time of prayer and fellowship. The intent of the “Big Buddy” program is to allow our students the opportunity to see what it means to live like a Warrior and to build a meaningful relationship with an upperclassman. The Big Buddy Program is exciting for our students and we are thankful for this opportunity to build relationships.

St. Dominic Students Create STEM Tower Projects

St. Dominic Catholic School students participating in the Grades 1 – 3 Summer Enrichment classes enjoyed making tower STEM projects. After researching structures such as the Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and high rises in New York students constructed their own towers. Using spaghetti, tooth picks and index cards they used critical thinking skills, while working together as a team, to complete their projects. Here Thomas Hunt and Travis Greer assemble their spaghetti tower.

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“Education is what people do to you. Learning is what you do for yourself.” – Joi Ito

Corpus Christi Catholic School

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Building the Body of Christ, One Student at a Time .

Established in 1958, Corpus Christi Catholic School provides students in K3 through eighth grade an outstanding education. Our child care center provides a warm, nurturing environment with developmentally appropriate programs for children 6 weeks to 2 years old. The school is committed to providing opportunities to grow in faith, achieve academic success, and serve others as disciples of Jesus. For more information, please contact us. 251-342-5474 or school@corpuschristiparish.com 6300 McKenna Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 www.corpuschristiparish.com/school

Two Mobile Locations

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513 Georgian Drive

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Covenant Christian Students Visit Mobile Museum of Art

Corpus Christi 8th Graders Participate in Service Projects

Sixth grade students from Covenant Christian School recently visited the Mobile Museum of Art. Students viewed exhibits on ancient history and participated in a hands-on demonstration of pottery making using the pottery wheel.

Each year, the 8th graders at Corpus Christi Catholic School become part of our service group called the “Disciples of St. Michael.” Throughout the school year, the students participate is service projects to help the poor and needy in our community. Four students are selected as leaders of the group. This year’s leaders are: Cooper Odom, Rusty Hickman, Molly Lacosta and Emily Fadalla.

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Saints Help with Flood Relief for Baton Rouge

Historic flooding in Louisiana sent the St. Paul’s family into prompt action at the very beginning of the new school year. Answering the call for help in a huge way, St. Paul’s faculty and families donated bleach and other cleaning supplies, linens, diapers, wipes, paper products, food, water, and sandwiches to help the flood victims. A trailer full was delivered by Baton Rouge native Jacob Templet as he returned home to help his family recover. On Monday August 22nd, Leslie Lerner and Laura McGee delivered a U Haul truck and pickup truck full of supplies to the small towns of Gonzales and St. Amant, rural areas hit by 4+ feet of water. Thanks to the many families who generously donated and to numerous students who with SPS staff Zac Lambrecht, Tyler Kerns, Mark Foley, Dan Drum and Leigh Ann Collins helped with the sorting and loading process.

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Autauga County Schools

Prichard Prep Receives Accreditation from AISA and SACS

Realizing a long-term dream of founder, Pastor Ruby Eldridge, Prichard Preparatory School (PPS) received Accreditation from both the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) and AdvancED/SACS over the summer, according to Mel Washington, President of the Board of Directors. “Becoming an accredited school has been a goal of the Prichard Preparatory Board of Directors for several years. This certification says that Prichard Prep meets the highest standards in academic excellence and operational effectiveness.” Working tirelessly throughout the course of last year, a dedicated team of faculty and staff prepared the school for an intensive 3-day site visit from the Accreditation Review Team (ART). PPS received several commendations in the summary of findings. According to the review team document, ART representatives stated, "Through interviews and observations, it is apparent that the faculty and staff have established a positive culture of student discipline within a loving and nurturing environment." Additionally, AISA documentation stated, "The teachers demonstrate a genuine love for the students and desire to see them succeed. The commitment to small classes and the freedom the teachers have to engage in all aspects of teaching (mental, physical, spiritual and social) is a testament to the positive school culture that has been created at Prichard Preparatory School. "I could not be more proud of our students and faculty for achieving this recognition," said Principal Lorie Minor. "As educators, this accreditation means we have met/or exceeded the standards set for the best educational institutions in the country. For the students, it means they leave here with a top-notch education and will be afforded the opportunity to further their education anywhere they choose." AdvancED promotes a philosophy that accreditation is an on-going, never-ending process of improvement, not an event that occurs once every five years.

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True Blue Day at St. Pius X Catholic School

St. Pius X held its annual True Blue Day on Thursday, September 8. True Blue day is a day set aside to honor our men in blue. Local police officers came to a picnic lunch prepared by Pastor Johnny Savoie; participated in student activities and received door prizes as part of the festivities. Pictured here are some of our finest playing a pick-up game with middle school students.

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The NED Program Visits UMS-Wright

Mrs. Blair Schoenvogel is our Lower School Counselor who teaches the “Wright Way” counseling class. Her class teaches students about character building, how to be proactive in handling situations that arise, and making good choices each and every day. Her goal is to help guide our students over what she calls the many speed bumps of life. She focuses on areas such as respect, responsibility, honor, compassion, and excellence. Last year, the focus was on “Paying it Forward”- spreading kindness to others. This school year, she continues to focus on “bucket filling,” but has also added a new component to her class called the “NED” initiative, which stands for “Never Give Up, Encourage Others, and Do Your Best!” In August, our Lower School students enjoyed an educational character-building program sponsored by the NED Program, which was a reminder that "every child can be a champion!"

Explore the opportunities.

Wednesday, November 2, 2016 Dinner & Information Packets: 5:30-6:30 p.m. Open House & Curriculum Tours: 6:30-7:30 p.m.

251-433-9904

www.StMaryMobile.org

Registration information for 2017-2018 school year will be available (Child care provided). Pre-K-3 through 8th grade St. Mary Parish Mom’s Day Out & Early Child Care Program

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Autauga County Schools

St. Mary Catholic Welcomes Archbishop Rodi and Superintendent Byrd

Corpus Christi Catholic School PTO Purchases Playground Equipment

From St. Mary's new Mom's Day Out all the way through St. Mary Catholic School's PreK3 through 8th grade, Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi and Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Gwen Bryd began their day on September 1 with a student Mass followed by a blessing of every single student and classroom on the campus of St. Mary Parish! Pictured: Archbishop Rodi calls on a student for a pop quiz question on their recent homework assignment.

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The PTO at Corpus Christi Catholic School recently purchased new playground equipment for our preschool and primary grade students. The students were so excited to have new things on the playground!

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CHCA 2016-2017 Azalea Trail Maids

Cottage Hill Christian Academy is pleased to introduce our school representatives to the 2016-17 Mobile Azalea Trail Court. Our Azalea Trail Maids are Miss Makenzie Oates (yellow), Miss Anna MacDonald (lavender), and Miss Haleigh Spragg (peach). These young ladies have gone through several intensive interviews on the school and county level and have shown themselves to be outstanding in both academics and character. As part of the Mobile Azalea Trail Court they not only serve as official hostesses for the city of Mobile but for Cottage Hill Christian Academy as well. The girls recently helped welcome the Warrior Nation back to school at an all school orientation night. As members of the Court, the girls will participate in local, state and national appearances as well as school events such as Super Reading Night, Homecoming, and other events throughout the year. In years past, the Mobile Azalea Trail Court has participated in the Fourth of July celebration in Philadelphia, the Easter Parade at Disney World, and Thanksgiving Parade in Chicago, just to name a few. The girls will have a busy and fun year representing their families, Cottage Hill Christian Academy, and the City of Mobile.

St. Paul’s Girl’s Cross-Country Overall Team Winner at Fairgrounds

Congratulations to the members of our girl’s cross-country team for their meet win at the fairgrounds. In competition with 9 area schools from Mobile and Baldwin County, our girls were the overall team winner scoring 25 points to runner-up Baker’s 50; (low score wins in cross-country). St. Paul’s had 5 girls finish in the top 8 places, led by Isabel Valenzuela who was the winning runner. Our next 4 finishers (all either 8th or 9th graders) were separated by only 8 seconds and included Palmer Waechter, Mary Howard Singleton, Virginia Terreson and Sarah Strickland. GO SAINTS!

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Physics Fun at St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

At St. Luke's Mrs. Karen Haynes is always able to make class fun! Whether it be a search for pirate treasure, making a cardboard boat for 2 and trying to stay afloat, shooting soft drink geysers off or calculating acceleration using a scooter... PHYSICS IS FUN! Pictured are Graham Driskell and Cayla Seelhorst testing momentum.

St. Ignatius Science Lab

St. Ignatius students are starting the school year off in the Science Lab. Learning how to find the density of solid items is more fun when you get to do them with friends. Pictured are St. Ignatius 8th grade students Mackie Nicholas, Smith Strain and Henry Stephens.

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Teachers Greet New School Year

When the littlest students at Little Flower Catholic school showed up for the first day of school, they were greeted with smiles and a warm welcome. Their teachers' happy faces set the stage for a wonderful year with days of adventure and learning. From left, Cathy Wagner (kindergarten), Patsy White (Pre-K4), and Lisa Raynor (PreK3) spread the joy of welcoming students on the first day of school.

Join us for a Coastal Christmas

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Autauga County Schools Mentoring Program Started at B.C. Rain

Mobile County Public Schools and the Mobile Police Department recently introduced the Adult Identity Mentoring program at B.C. Rain, with the idea of steering freshmen away from risky behavior by keeping them focused on their life and career goals. The 16-week program, developed in Birmingham and now used all over the country, was begun in Mobile last year through the JROTC program at LeFlore. B.C. Rain and LeFlore are the two MCPSS schools where every freshman is required to take a JROTC course, and therefore every freshman at those two schools will go through the AIM program. “It’s designed to give young people an opportunity to engage one another, along with adults, in productive conversation about their future goals,” said Curtis Graves, Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Mobile Police Department. “Ultimately, the end game is to have kids who didn’t initially think about their future begin to think about their future, and to engage them in such a way to have them think about four years from now.” Freshmen at Rain will spend a class period every Tuesday with mentors from the Mobile Police Department, who will try to help them identify their life goals and give them strategies on how to reach them – from creating a resume to avoiding trouble – as well as underscoring the role their schoolwork plays in helping reach those goals. Pictured at center is Cynthia Ramos, an MPD family intervention specialist.

St. Dominic Catholic School Picnic

St. Dominic Catholic School Kindergarten students began the 2016 – 2017 school year with a picnic. Stella Grant, Emma Craddock, Elle Barber, Bailey Nicole Hicks, Genevieve Peck, and Lizzie Wilson enjoy lunch with new friends and their favorite stuffed animal.

Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

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CHCA Students Release Butterflies

As part of their science curriculum, CHCA fourth grade students have been observing and studying the life cycle of Gulf Fritillary and Swallowtail butterflies, noting their development as they metamorphoses from a caterpillar to a butterfly. They watched the caterpillars eat, grow, disappear into chrysalis, and finally emerge as beautiful butterflies before releasing them into a flowering habitat on the church campus.

St. Mary Catholic Welcomes Newest Faculty

St. Mary Catholic School welcomed back all teachers and support staff on August 10 with Mass celebrated by St. Mary Pastor, Rev. Msgr. G. Warren Wall followed by a fantastic breakfast prepared by the St. Mary PTO! St. Mary also welcomed in four new teachers to their faculty family: Daniel Peebles, Elementary PE; Dr. Gia Johnson, Middle School Science; Tammy Nicholas, Middle School Drama; and Will Hester, Middle school History.

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

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Autauga County Schools

Barton Academy Foundation Awarded $1.25 Million Grant

The Barton Academy Foundation has been awarded a $1.25 million challenge grant from the Ben May Charitable Trust. The gift is Barton’s largest to date and is a huge step forward in restoring Alabama’s oldest public school building as Barton Academy for Advanced World Studies. This innovative academy for grades six through 12 will teach global commerce, international relations and foreign language skills through rigorous coursework aligned with international standards. “The Ben May grant will be a major boost to our fundraising goal of $12 million,” said Jaime Betbeze, president of the Barton Academy Foundation board. “This project is a great example of how a public-private partnership can bring value and innovation to Mobile.” The BAF is working with Mobile County Public Schools to secure private, business and foundation funding to update Barton’s interior as a state-of-the-art school. Work was recently completed on a $4.2 million MCPSS project to renovate the exterior of Barton and adjacent Yerby School. John Peebles, chairman of the Ben May Charitable Trust’s distribution committee, said the gift includes a challenge to other philanthropic, civic, business and governmental organizations to step forward to provide their own support for the project. Pictured are, from left: MCPSS Superintendent Martha Peek, Peebles, Mobile County Board of School Commissioners President Don Stringfellow, and Betbeze. Part business pitch competition, part educational experience, Startup Weekend gave participants 60 seconds to pitch an idea for a business to be started from scratch. The best ideas were selected and teams were then created to take them from the idea phase to a fully formed business proposal, aided by mentors involved with the event. The event, a Techstars program powered by Google for Entrepreneurs, was organized by OneMobile, the University of South Alabama’s Office of Research and Economic Development, Innovation PortAL and the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce, and sponsored by Airbus, Hargrove Engineers + Constructors and Alabama Media Group.

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

Williamson Middle Grades Preparatory Academy Receives Donated School Supplies

St. Paul’s First Graders Kick off Grandfriends Program

Mobile County District Attorney’s Office donated School Supplies to Williamson Middle Grades Preparatory Academy. The Helping Families Staff is very instrumental in assisting the students during the transitional period from Mae Eanes to Williamson High School. Pictured: Mr. Kirven Lang, Principal, Mr. Joshua Salter, Helping Families Case Officer, Ann Sirmon, Helping Families Case Coordinator, and Chandra Parrott, Partner In Education Coordinator.

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C As part of St Paul’s Little Saints Serving, Mrs. Mosley’s first grade class visited Springhill Manor on Friday, September 2nd to start off this year’s GrandFriends program. Each month a different class will visit the residents of the nursing home as our first graders learn about the elderly. Mrs. Mosley’s class spread sunshine to the residents and workers by taking a tray of goodies and making cute sunshine crafts for the residents. The real smile makers were the class’ renditions of “You Are My Sunshine” and “Oh Mister Sun”! Parents Jessica Delaney, Bradee Scarborough, Shannon McClure, Alison Cook, and Elizabeth Gregory joined the students on their walk and visit. Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

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Drug Education Vehicle Visits E.R. Dickson

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In August, Infirmary Drug Education Vehicle visited our fifth graders at E.R. Dickson. The Drug Education Vehicle travels to almost 200 sites in Mobile, and surrounding counties each year visiting public, private, and parochial schools as well as attending community events and special programs educating on the dangers of drugs and alcohol. Our students are ready to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just Say No!â&#x20AC;? The multi-media program features a 12-person theater with three 42-inch flat-screen monitors for video presentations that run through the spectrum of drugs, abuse and effects. It gives students the opportunity to see, hear and touch displays. They view actual organs that show healthy and unhealthy samples of the heart, brain and liver. Six touchscreen learning stations kiosks engage them with interactive games, consequences of their choices and skills for saying "no."

Hutchens Elementary Teacher Earns Presidential Award

Hutchens Elementary second-grade teacher Julie Neidhardt earned a prestigious award recently, as she has been selected to receive a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). Neidhardt, who has been an educator in Mobile County Public Schools for 18 years, is one of only three K-6 teachers in Alabama to be chosen for the honor. She will receive a citation signed by President Barack Obama and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation (NSF), and was invited to Washington, D.C., for an awards dinner. The PAEMST program, administered by NSF on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, recognizes outstanding teachers for their contributions to the teaching and learning of mathematics and science.

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Autauga County Schools

Mayor Visits Dauphin Island Elementary

Dauphin Island Elementary School first graders enjoyed a visit from Dauphin Island Mayor Jeff Collier during a unit about community helpers taught by teacher Lynn Coulter. The students listened and learned about the many important ways the Mayor helps the community! What a special day!

Learning From Artists at St. Dominic Catholic School

St. Dominic Catholic School students learn about the Habits of Thinking Learned from Artists. Students engage in centers and share ideas and discoveries to learn from each other. Here 5th grade students, Russell Ginn, Anthony Hantouche, Mamie Fromdahl, and Isabella Hansen explore their creativity and make a sculpture using only the materials provided. After the exploration, students answer and discuss the essential question, “How do artists take risks and start over from failure?”

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4160 Burma Road • Mobile, Alabama 36693 (251) 661.5226 • StDominicMobile.org/school Alabama Educational Scholarship Program participant

Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

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MGM’s Coach Gaston Retires

Mary G. Montgomery faculty, staff, and students would like to wish Coach Leland Gaston a happy and relaxing retirement. Coach Gaston began his 28-year teaching career at Azalea Road Middle School before joining the MGM staff in 1995. While at MGM, Coach Gaston taught multiple math classes as well as Grad Point; in addition, he also coached football and basketball for many years. His favorite part of being a teacher and coach is, “…seeing kids succeed, graduate, and make something of themselves.” When asked what he will enjoy most about retirement, Coach Gaston replied, “Spending time with my family and, of course, fishing.” MGM thanks Coach Gaston for the positive impact he has had and continues to have on its faculty, staff, and most of all its students. While we are going to miss you, we hope you enjoy your well-deserved retirement. Congratulations Coach Gaston.

UMS-Wright Introduces “Green Initiative” Throughout Campus

UMS-Wright Recycling efforts have never “BIN” better! We are pleased to announce that 45 new Recycling bins have been installed throughout campus. This effort adds plastic and aluminum recycling which will complement our current recycling of paper and cardboard. We want to ensure that our students, faculty, and administration understand the importance of recycling and how everyone can make BIG things happen by playing a small part with recycling on campus. Local representatives from Keep Mobile Beautiful and Mobile Baykeeper will visit classrooms and assemblies to implement this initiative into the curriculum. Stay tuned for upcoming recycling events such as a UMS-Wright Green Week in November, National Recycling Day, and Earth Day! A special thanks to our generous bin sponsors - Harvey and Thomas Orthodontics, Saad Development, Iberia Bank, and Encore Rehabilitation.

HE ONCE BEAT HIS DAD FOUR STRAIGHT GAMES IN CHESS. AFTERWARD, HE CELEBRATED WITH SOME ORANGE SLICES AND A BOOK ABOUT WIZARDS. and at Children’s of Alabama we want to see every child grow up and live to their fullest potential. That’s why we recruit, train and retain the most inquiring minds, the most skilled hands and the most compassionate hearts in pediatric medicine.

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St. Ignatius Says Goodbye to Beloved Fr. Daniel

St. Ignatius students are sad to say goodbye to Fr. Daniel who has been with our school for two years. Fr. Daniel came to us from Kenya. Recently St. Ignatius students celebrated his birthday and his new assignment in Montgomery. Pictured with Fr. Daniel are Frances Katz and Anna Bell Muscat.

Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

Autauga County Schools

Seven UMS-Wright Students Inducted into Prestigious Cum Laude Society

This month, seven students were inducted into the Cum Laude Society Chapter at UMS-Wright, one of only three chapters in the state of Alabama. Only the top ten percent of the Senior class are eligible for induction and the new members are chosen by blind ballot. Selection is based on grade point average, standardized test scores, and performance on Advanced Placement exams during the studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; junior year. Congratulations to the inductees who are pictured here: front left to right - Hanna Fridrickson, Ellen Williams, Amerisa Kyriazis, and Sarah Kane. Back left to right - Danner Butler, Samuel Plash, and Thomas Barnett.

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Soccer at St. Pius X

The St. Pius X Div. 4 grade girls had their first soccer game on Saturday, September 10.

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Sea Cadet Summer Trainings

This summer the Naval Sea Cadet Corps hosted their annual summer trainings. These trainings are held all over the U.S. The local unit, Dunlap Division sent cadets to Florida, Illinois, Tennessee and Georgia. Some of the trainings the cadets participated in include: League Cadet Orientation (Basic and Advanced), Recruit Training, Ceremonial Honor Guard, Culinary, Medical Field Operations, and SEAL Training. This year Dunlap Division was the only unit in the U. S. to have TWO cadets be accepted to SEAL Training, one of whom received Honor Cadet. These trainings allow our local cadets to connect with cadets from other units all over the United States who have the same interests and gives the cadets a hands on experience within a field they may be interested. Also this summer, we had several new cadets join the unit. The officers and senior cadets held an orientation class to show new cadets how the unit works and allow them to ask any questions they may have. Naval Sea Cadets is designed for young men and women ages ten to high school graduation who are interested in expanding their knowledge on our military. The sea cadets instill patriotism and leadership skills. Dunlap Division meets one weekend a month at the U.S. Coast Guard Aviation Training Center in Mobile. The cadets are under no obligation to join the military; however, if they decide to enlist they are usually eligible to enlist at a higher paygrade. The program does offer ROTC scholarships. If you or someone you know may be interested in joining our local unit as a cadet or adult leader, visit our national website at www. seacadets.org or contact our administrative officer ENS Angela Graham at angela. graham@hotmail.com. You may also follow our local unit page on Facebook at www. facebook.com/DunlapDivision. 31

Monday--ursday • 11:00-9:00 Friday & Saturday • 11:00-10:00 Sunday • 1:00-9:00 2511 Old Shell Road • Mobile, AL • 251-471-1710

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10 Ways the Web Can Help Thrifty Families The number of websites promising to help families save money has grown almost as fast as the number of Americans who need to trim their budgets. Unfortunately, not all of those websites deliver on their promise. Many of the Save!Save!Save! websites actually have something to sell. Some even charge for things like credit reports that families can get free from other sources. Other websites make you pay in time, forcing visitors to navigate through one adfilled screen after another searching for nuggets of helpful information. Parents, of course, need to save time as well as money. The ten tips that follow are designed to give you maximum control over the money you have. Zero in on the places where your budget needs help, and you’ll find relevant websites that are free, useful and easy to use. 1. Make a Budget. Lots of websites help you track your money. At mint.com, for example, you can enter passwords for bank accounts as well as credit cards, making it possible for the site to categorize and track everything you spend. If that seems like overkill, check out the paper and pencil budget forms available at frugalliving.about.com, a website that has tons of tips about living well with less. 2. Look for structural savings. So-called “fixed” expenses aren’t nearly as fixed as they used to be. At lowermybills.com and bankrate.com, you can compare rates for utilities, credit card companies and even mortgage lenders. Other sites are more specialized. Use saveonphone. com to untangle the complicated packages offered by cellphone companies or billshrink.com to compare credit card deals.

Even though the deals may be terrific, you’ll still be tempted to spend money on things you may not need simply because the price is right. The same rule applies to so-called “deal” sites where “Only 2 Left At this Price!” tags may trigger impulsive spending. 4. Do your homework.

Before making any purchase over $25, check a price comparison site like pricegrabber.com to find out what the item “should” cost. If you’re trying to save money on an auction site like Ebay, visit honesty.com first so you’ll recognize bargains when you see them. 5. Be smart when you spend online. If the going

price for something is beyond your budget, put what you’re willing to pay into pricespider.com and let their bots e-mail you when they find a deal on what you want. Then look for coupons at coupon sites like retailmenot.com or couponmountain.com. Avoid shipping charges with the codes at freeshipping.org. And register your purchase on priceprotectr.com. They’ll send you an e-mail if they spot the product at a lower price and many retailers will refund the difference. 6. Eat for less. Cutting your food budget means spending less on the food you buy and choosing recipes that get maximum nutrition per dollar. Like many other grocery sites, mygrocerydeals.com lists the specials at local stores after you’ve registered and provided your zip code. This site also lets you search for online coupons, check nutritional information and even search by item so that, for instance, you’ll know who has the best deal on peanut butter this week. For frugal recipes, try cheapcooking.com, a website that doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles--just hearty family friendly recipes that don’t call for costly ingredients.

3. Control discretionary spending. If you’re

serious about sticking to a budget, don’t even visit sites like overstock.com and woot.com. Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

7. Save on energy. Energy prices may fluctuate but, the pay-off strategy in the long-term 32

is to cut consumption. To make your home more efficient, take the time to work through the calculations at The Home Energy Saver (http:// hes.lbl.gov/). To be sure you are getting the best price on gasoline, visit the price data map at Fueleconomy.gov (http://tinyurl.com/4fnot). 8. Indulge in free stuff. If you were dependent on retail therapy to improve your mood, it’s time to make the switch to freebie hunting. At sites like The Absurdly Cool Freebie Finder (www. absurdlycool.com) and Hey It’s Free (www. heyitsfree.com), you’ll find all kinds of things you never knew you wanted. Of course, nothing is truly free. In some cases, there will be shipping charges. In others, you’ll give up contact information. Either way, you’ll pay less for your consumer high. 9. Bypass cash. The Internet has made it much easier to swap things you don’t want for things you need. Freecycle.org lets members post both “Have” and “Want” listings. Dignswap.com sets up exchanges between women who have things they don’t wear in their closets. At Swaptree.com, registered users can trade books, videos, games and other items. 10. Learn tips and tricks. Saving money doesn’t have to be a grim business. You can, for example, recruit the kids to search for coupons and give them a percentage of what they help you save. Or you can visit thriftyfun.com, a lively site filled with craft projects that can be made from odds and ends most people already have on hand. Or you can get the e-mail newsletter from stretcher.com, a website that’s been collecting ideas about getting the most from every dollar since 1996. Join frugalvillage.net, a community where moms cheerfully share their ideas about thrifty family management. Although no website can tell you how much you “should” be saving, visiting any of these thrifty websites will provide encouragement and even inspiration. And, you’ll know you’re not the only family trying to make sense of the new economic landscape by doing more with less. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2016, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved

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1) Two truths and a false. This game appeals to my kids’ imaginations, and I usually learn something new about their day that they forgot or neglected to tell me. To play, go around the table and take turns sharing two events that happened that day and one that did not. Who can guess which one is false? For example, “I got a B on my spelling test. I saw a goat at school. I sat with Gina at lunch today.”

2) Get creative. Christie Zemencik, a mom of three children, ages 18, 14 and 7, says she covers the table with butcher paper and puts crayons out. “My girls draw or write random things that usually lead to conversations as to why that was on their minds,” she says.

3) What is your Rose, Thorn and Bud? Many families discuss the ups and downs of the day to get conversation rolling. My 9-yearold son introduced me to this conversation starter: The rose symbolizes the highlight of your day, the thorn is the most frustrating or worst part of the day, and your bud is what you are looking forward to most the next day.

4) Conversation in a jar.

Karen Conklin, mom of three, ages 9, 7, and 3, created a jar with dinnertime conversation starters on strips of paper. “An example is ‘Name two people that made you smile today and why,’” she says. Her children enjoy adding conversation ideas to the jar, too.

5) Table topics.

Julie Melchior, a mom of three children, ages 15, 12 and 9, says she purchased a pack of Christmas-themed conversation questions last year. Each night during the holiday season the family selected a card to discuss. “The kids couldn’t wait to sit down and get the cards passed out,” Melchior says. “It was so interesting for my husband and

me to listen to their answers and hear what they remembered from their past holidays. It gave everyone an opportunity to share and listen and we talked about things that probably wouldn’t come up in normal dinner time conversation.” Find Kid Talk: Conversation Cards, Crunch a Color Conversation Starters, Chat Packs or Table Topics at area retailers, book stores or online. Why family mealtime matters. “The union of a meal together fosters feelings of warmth, love and belonging,” says Jessica Velazquez, a healthy living director with the YMCA. “It promotes communication between family members and provides an opportunity for parents to give special attention to their kids.” Eating dinner together also provides parents with a valuable opportunity to model basic face-to-face social skills and etiquette. Skills that are increasingly important to develop in an era where much of our children’s communication is conducted through technology. MBP Freelance journalist and author Christa Melnyk Hines loves to find new ways to “chat and chew” with her family. Her latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.

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

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

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first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse. Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness... I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,

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FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF

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Finally carved out a night for your family to sit down and eat a meal together? Now that you are all present and accounted for, take time to catch up with each other. If you have trouble getting the conversation rolling, try one of these games. Not only will you make mealtime more entertaining, you’ll also strengthen your relationship with one another.

• R OPES C OURSE • C LIMBING T O WER • OUTDOOR L IVING S KILLS • C AMPFIRE F UN • C OUNSELOR -I N -T RAINING • 35

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Light Up the Toy Box There is an abundance of toys featuring various kinds of illumination on the market. Because the human eye naturally seeks out contrast between light and dark, lights are understandably popular additions that inject extra flash into playtime. Adding glow-in-the-dark features to toys and games that also motivate a degree of assembly double down on honing kids’ attention to play. Cultivate a child’s

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

focus with the following illuminating choices that command attention as they brighten up the play landscape.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Sands Alive Glow Super Set

Max Traxxx R/C Tracer Racers

Sand castle construction rises to a new level with the Sands Alive Glow Super Set. Featuring three pounds of sand that not only glows under black light, but also holds light and designs ‘drawn’ with a UV pen (included), the possibilities for creative sand design are endless. The set comes with a large play tray to minimize mess and also includes shape molds, rollers, and special UV glasses so young sand sculptors can review their glowing handiwork in real time. Glow-inthe-dark technology, creativity and traditional sand play combine in an all-in-one great play set for kids who like to sink their hands into a good time.

Traditional race tracks can’t hold a candle to the glowing features offered in the Max Traxxx R/C Tracer Racer Starter Set. With twenty feet of glow-in-the-dark race track, designing a challenging course is only half the fun. The two R/C vehicles (included) feature undercarriage lights which leave a trail of illumination on the race way as they scorch along the tracks. The tracks are easy to assemble and the cars operate at variable speeds – until the drivers are ready to really open them up and blaze down the straight way. In dim lighting, the magnificent effects produced by the bright racers on this track will bring the grandstands and drivers to their feet!

Glow-in-the-Dark Celestial Connectagons

Laser Pegs 12-in-1 Race Car Building Set

Looking at the night sky over time reveals a stellar panorama with points of light that are always moving and changing. Reflecting the shifting puzzle of the heavens, Hearthsong’s Glow-in-the-Dark Celestial Connectagon set includes 157-piece interlocking pieces that feature moon phases, constellations, and galaxies rendered in glowing paint. How the parts connect is at the command of the builder – tall and towering, broad and expansive – the universe is theirs to illuminate. The longer the construct is exposed to light, the brighter the features will glow-in-the-dark. Just like the universe, the Celestial Connectagon Set is an expanding exploration that punctuates the dark with magical points of light.

Building a car is just one of the possibilities that can emerge into the light with the Laser Pegs 12-in1 Race Car Building Set. With 84 tinted construction elements and 20 laser pegs, young modelers can use the instructions to craft a rocket, a robot, a submarine and more glowing marvels (in addition to the sleek race car design). Once the models are complete they easily connect to the battery-operated power base and come to life with hypnotically beautiful illumination. Supporting creative reasoning alongside directed design, this set lights up the modeling landscape with its versatility and bright vision.

(Max Traxxx)

(Sands Alive)

(Laser Pegs)

(Hearthsong)

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

Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

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My wife and I make $100,000 a year combined, and we have about $12,000 in credit card debt. We also owe another $80,000 in student loans, and our kids’ private school education costs $1,000 a month. Is it okay for me to take a loan against my 401(k), which is invested in mutual funds, to clean up the credit card bills?

A. I wouldn’t do that. If your 401(k) is invested in good mutual funds, it’s likely you’ll miss out on some pretty good rates of return. But that’s not the biggest reason this is a bad idea. The biggest reason is that when you leave your company — and you will leave, whether it’s because you get a better job, you get fired, or you die — that loan is considered an early withdrawal. If you don’t repay it within 60 days, you’ll get hammered

with a 10 percent penalty plus your tax rate. You could easily lose almost half of what’s in the account. If you want to start paying off debt, my advice is to start doing things to generate extra income and begin living on a tight budget. Grab an extra, part-time job for a while, too, and have a big garage sale. Sell so much stuff the kids think they’re next! You need to work a serious debt-busting plan. The good news is it’s only $12,000. Knocking out the credit card debt won’t be so bad, and with your income, the kids’ school isn’t unreasonable. It’s the $80,000 in student loans that’s killing you. Scrape together and save every penny you can find each month, and put that toward paying off the credit card debt. Then, roll that amount over, add anything else you can come up with, and attack those student loans.

I’m trying to help my elderly mom with her finances. She has no debt and more than $1 million in assets. There was also another $500,000 trust left for her by my dad. With access to all this, does she still need longterm health insurance?

A. Absolutely! She also needs an estate planner immediately. Your parents were far too wise with their money to have your mom end up in a bad situation toward the end of her life. You need to do everything you can to prevent this from happening. In the event she’s unable to take care of herself, long-term care health coverage to take care of nursing home or in-home care is an absolute necessity. The cost of nursing home care can run from $75,000 to $100,000 a year. Your mom is in great shape financially. But just imagine what a prolonged nursing home stay could do to her nest egg. It’s not a pretty thought. When you hit 60, you need long-term care insurance, period. Whether you have $1 million-plus in the bank or not, I strongly recommend it as a wise part of any asset management plan.

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It’s that time of year again when pumpkins reign. If you want to get past the usual jacko-lantern carving and tackle some other pumpkin activities, you’ve come to the right place. Just read on for art, cooking, and learning activities your kids will enjoy. If you want your pumpkins to last longer than carved jack-o-lanterns, draw the faces on them with permanent markers. Use mini pumpkins to create a centerpiece or other decorations for the season. Carve out mini pumpkins and fill the center with a votive candle or tea light. Line the walkway or porch rail with them for Halloween or another evening occasion. Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

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Having guests? Carve out a very large pumpkin and use it as a punch bowl. Process your own pumpkin meat for pies, cakes, or muffins. This is enough fun the kids will want to help you. • Bake the pumpkin • When you can insert a fork through the skin, remove from oven and let cool. • When cool enough to handle, cut the pumpkin, remove all seeds, and peel. • Save the seeds for other activities, compost the peelings. • Cut the meat into chunks and place in a thick-bottomed pot with a little water. • Simmer until all water is cooked out and the volume is about half. Stir frequently. • Freeze in quantities for your favorite recipes. Make your favorite pumpkin recipes together and package them to give as gifts.

Enjoy a game of pumpkin bowling. Cut the stem off a medium-sized pumpkin. Carve out three holes to resemble a bowling ball. Set up rolls of paper towels or empty pop bottles as pins and have at it.

Look up the formula for volume of an ellipsoid. Take the proper measurements of your pumpkin to estimate how much liquid your pumpkin will hold. Then carve it out and see if you got it right.

Hide miniature pumpkins around your yard and have the kids hunt for them like an Easter egg hunt. Remember the seeds you saved? Wash, dry, and roast. Sprinkle on your favorite popcorn seasoning and enjoy.

If you don’t enjoy eating pumpkin seeds, put them in a quart jar. Have each family member guess how many seeds are in the jar and record everyone’s predictions.

Count the seeds. Count by two’s and place them in piles of tens on the table. Arrange the piles in straight rows of ten piles in each row to make 100 seeds per row. Set up ten rows to make 1,000 seeds. Count them out by ten’s and by hundred’s. Since they are arranged in straight rows, point out that 10x4=40 or that 10x8=80.

Finish counting out the seeds in the same fashion until done. How did your predictions measure up?

If you laid all the seeds end to end in a train, how long would the train stretch? Again, record everyone’s predictions. But do you have enough room to lay out all those seeds? If not, assume that every seed is the same size and shape and lay out one pile of ten seeds in a train and measure that. Multiply that number by how many piles of ten you have. Divide that answer by 12 to find out how long, in feet, your seed train would be. How did those predictions measure up?

One last thing. Color your seeds different colors with permanent markers. Then use them to create a mosaic. If you know what you want to create before you start, it will help you to decide what colors to color the seeds. You can use this technique to make a picture for the refrigerator or to make holiday cards to send to friends and family. MBP Carol Alexander is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in over 30 regional parenting publications and several national magazines.

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Haunted Ducktours

Sunday – October 2 – Counting Crows, Wet Willie, Mulligan Brothers, Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet.

September 29 through October 29, 2016

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For centuries Mobile has been home to pirates, vagabonds, miscreants, soldiers, and ladies of the night. While their bodies may be gone their souls remain. Embark on a spine-tingling tour of Mobile and the Mobile River as we search along our haunted city streets for these forgotten souls who linger somewhere between today and the afterlife. While this tour is quite creepy this is a family attraction! Cost - $20 Adults, $12.50 Kids (3-12), $0 (Infants-2 years). (251) 802-8687

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Wales West ad on page 20

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September 30 through October 31, 2016

Ride a real Steam Train to the Haunted Barn Maze and Pumpkin Patch, decorate a FREE Pumpkin, enjoy Refreshments, Miniature Train Ride, Hay Ride, and Children’s Bounce House. Exciting Pumpkin Canon, Pony Rides/Petting Zoo, Cafe and Gift Shop available for a slight fee. Day trains kiddie-friendly. Scary night trains begin at 7:00pm. Open Friday’s, 5:00pm to 9:00pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 1:00pm to 9:00pm. Starting October 24 open every day: 5:00pm to 9:00pm week nights, 1:00pm to 9:00pm weekends. Sign up early on web site for discounts. $15 per person, plus tax; children 2 and under, FREE. All Aboard! Located on Co Rd. 9 between Fairhope and Silverhill, 1.5 mi. south of 48 or 2.5 mi. north of 32. (888) 569-5337 or (251) 232-2322 www.waleswest.com

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Downtown Mobile, Mobile

September 30 through October 2, 2016

TenSixtyFive is a laid back street party celebrating music, local artists and makers, and locally owned establishments in Downtown Mobile. We will showcase local, regional, and national bands on two main stages, as well as a kids zone and a local art market, all weekend long. This fun Free event will feature 2 stages. The lineup for the weekend – Friday – September 30 –Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Moon Taxi, Blind Melon, Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears, Los Colognes. Saturday-October 1 – Seether, Dirty Heads, The Struts, Starset, 7Horse, Infant Richard and the Delta Stones. Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

Thriller Night of Lights

755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard, Mobile September 31 through October 31, 2016

Looking for fun entertainment instead of the scary Halloween activities this October? New show opening this fall season in Mobile, Alabama! Thriller Nights of Lights is a family-friendly drive-thru light show synchronized to music playing through your car radio. Displays of giant spiders, spooky eyes, friendly ghosts, and tumbling scarecrows are just a few of the displays to see dancing to a fun variety of music. The only show of its kind in the country, Thriller Nights of Lights will thrill kids and adults of all ages. Open dusk til 10:00pm. $6 per person, ages 3 and under are free. www.thrillernightsoflights.com

Magnolia Corn Maze ad on page 8

15275 County Road 49, Summerdale October 1 through November 5, 2016

Magnolia Corn Maze is opening October 1 – November 5 for the 2016 Season. This year Magnolia Corn Maze is again putting in two corn mazes. We hope you will come out and get lost in one of the two corn fields we offer. Enjoy the pumpkin patch, cow train, petting zoo, pig races, pony rides, corn cannons, games, hop-along rodeo, campfires and more! Magnolia Farms Paintball open every weekend. (251) 605-7216

www.magnoliacornmaze.com

Seward Farms ad on page 5

10836 Tanner Williams Rd, Lucedale, MS October 1 through November 5, 2016

Come to the border of Mississippi and Alabama on Tanner Williams Road, and you’ll find tons of family fun, fresh air, twisting corn maze, fantastic food, and an evening by a crackling fire! In celebration of the 50th anniversary of “It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown – we are bringing to you one of the most memorable experiences of a lifetime. We have a challenging corn maze, pig races, hayrides and cow train, giant jumping pillow, tube slide, corn cannon, and Farm animals and goat walk, field of fright and pony rides. Our flexible hours and admission allows you to choose how many activities are right

for your family and budget, but we have to say, the All Day Pass is a terrific bargain for a full day of fun! Our Wagon Wheel Cafe offers delicious barbeque sandwiches, pulled pork, hotdogs, drinks and more. We have birthday Huts and party pavilions available by reservation for special events and birthdays. Make reservations now for a fire pit for your group for a perfect evening. Join us October 1st, 2016 for American Heroes Day - All members of the U.S. Military, retired and active duty, firefighters, law enforcement, EMS personnel, along with their dependents, with valid ID are admitted free! The pumpkin barn opens in October with a great selection of perfect pumpkins for your jack-o-lanterns and decorations. October 8 – Peanuts Movie Night, October 1, 8 & 15 – Bay Area Food Bank Drive, October 15, 22 and 29 will be the dates to join us if you dare for a Halloween Scare! Hauntings begin at dusk (doors open at 6:00pm). October 29 is Trick or Treat Saturday, Come meet your favorite cartoon characters. November 5 is Grandparents Day. Hours of operation: Open Saturdays 10:00am9:00pm Closed Fridays & Sundays. Monday thru Thursday: field trips by reservation. NOTE: Cash Only, No Credit Cards, No Personal Checks. (228) 641-3936

www.sewardfarms.com

Pumpkin Patch at Christ UMC 6101 Grelot Road, Mobile

October 1 through October 31, 2016

It’s that time of year again....time for the Children’s Ministry’s annual Pumpkin Patch! We are excited to see the lawn at Christ UMC covered with gourds and pumpkins of all shapes and sizes! From the smallest to the largest pumpkin, you’re sure to find the best pumpkins for holiday decorating or to use as the perfect backdrop for fall family photos. If you’ve been before, we look forward to seeing you again. If you haven’t been yet, plan on joining us this year! Times Sunday: Noon – dusk, Monday – Saturday: 9:00am –dusk. We’ll see you at the Patch! Many exciting activities: October 5 Pirates and Princesses Picnic - Preschoolers, 11:00am – 12:00pm at The Pumpkin Patch. Come dressed as your favorite pirate or princess for a fun time at The Patch. We will decorate pumpkins and then picnic, so don’t forget to bring your lunch! Cost $5. Register at christumcchildren.com/register by Monday, October 3. October 26 – It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown at the Pumpkin Patch for families with children up to 5th Grade, 6:00pm7:00pm. Join us for a special screening of “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!” We will sit under

www.mobilebayparents.com

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the pumpkin tent to watch this favorite Halloween classic on the big screen. Popcorn, cotton candy and drinks will be served. After the movie, children can decorate a small pumpkin to take home. There is no cost to attend Movie Night in the Pumpkin Patch. Rain location: Christ Center Gym. (251) 342-0462

www.christumcmobile.com

Tanner Williams Pumpkin Patch 1550 Grand Bay Wilmer Road North, Mobile October 1 through 31, 2016

Join us at the Tanner Williams Pumpkin Patch from October 1-October 31. Our hours are 10:00am7:00pm Monday - Saturday and 12:00pm-7:00pm on Sundays. Join us October 8 for our Fall Festival - games, old timey demonstrations, decorated cake contest, cake walk, kids crafts, face painting and much more! October 22 will be Movie in the Park night with popcorn and a kid friendly film. October 29 will be our Trunk or Treat at 6:00pm . Come trick or treat with our church family and enjoy free hot dogs and chips. (251) 649-4752

Art at the Park

3321 Sollie Road, Mobile October 7 and 8, 2016

Art at the Park will be held at Oak Park Church. Arts, businesses, crafts door prizes and refreshments. Proceeds benefit Oak Park Missions. (251) 633-6110

oakparkministries.com

Dauphin Way Methodist Pumpkin Patch

Corner of Dauphin and Catherine Streets, Mobile October 12 through October 31, 2016

Come to the Pumpkin Patch! The patch will be open 7 days a week beginning October 12th. Hours

of operation: Monday-Friday 9:00am-6:00pm, Saturday 10:00am-6:00pm, and Sunday 12:00pm6:00pm. You will find pumpkins of all sizes, shapes and even some different colors along with gourds for your fall decorations. Field trips are offered Tuesday - Friday from 9:00am-12:00pm with an appointment. Appointments may be made by emailing lfoster@dauphinwayumc.org or calling (251) 3787532. Field trips are $2 or $3. For $2 each child receives a small pumpkin, experiences story time, and an informational time about how and where the pumpkins were grown and they get to pick out their very own pumpkin. The $3 field trip also includes a hayride. The patch is located at the corners of Catherine and Dauphin in the parking lot across from the church. (251) 471-1511

www.dauphinwayumc.org

Greek Fest 2016

50 South Ann Street, Mobile

October 13 through October 15, 2016

Welcome to Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church’s Greek Festival! Share our food, music, and heritage with friends and neighbors. Thank you for coming out to experience Greece in Mobile, Alabama - a yearly opportunity to eat, dance, shop, and be entertained as if you were in Greece itself! Enrich your senses with sights and sounds of Greece. We have live music and dancers, as well as activities just for the kids. As always, the food, desserts, and libations are sure to please, from the lamb to the always popular baklava. The ladies will be ready to take your order, with handmade baklava and assorted Greek pastries boxed to go! There’s a treasure of Greek jewelry, paintings, clothing, imports, and more available in our indoor marketplace as well. Thursday – Saturday from 11:00am-10:00pm. (251) 438-9888

www.greekfestmobile.org

Shrimp Festival

Highway 59 ends and intersects with Highway 182, Gulf Shores October 13 through October 16, 2016

Savor fresh from the gulf seafood at the 45th Annual National Shrimp Festival during this four-day event that attracts over 250,000 people. The festival is one of the nation’s premier outdoor festivals featuring over 300 vendors that offer fine art, arts & crafts, a retail marketplace, outdoor village, and of course, SHRIMP!! Two stages offer continuous musical entertainment while the little one’s attention is captured in the Children’s Activity Village where they create their own “art” and participate in other fun-filled activities. his year we will host the 4th Annual Shrimp Festival Singing for Scholarships which will take place Saturday on the west stage. This contest features the best of the best youth talent from Baldwin County. Saturday is Sand Sculpture Day! Join us Saturday Morning for the family friendly sand sculpture contest. Prizes included cash and trophies! There is something for everyone at the festival. Runner and walkers can enter the 10K and 5K races on Saturday, October 15 to help work off some of the great food at the festival. All net proceeds of the Run will be donated to Coastal Baldwin Education Enrichment. Hours: Thursday – Saturday from 10:00am-10:00pm and Sunday from 10:00am-5:00pm in Gulf Shores where highway 59 ends and intersects with highway 182. myshrimpfest.com

Something Special for Saturday at Moorer/Springhill Branch 4 McGregor South, Mobile October 15, 2016

Calling all children, ages 5 and Up! Learn how to make Pine Cone Bats. For more information, email ftigner@mplonline.org. (251) 470-7770

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Little Sisters of the Poor Lawn Party 1655 McGill Avenue, Mobile October 16, 2016

Mark your calendars for Sunday, October 16th for our 45th annual Lawn Party here at Sacred Heart Residence. This year’s version could be the most entertaining ever! Pelican 212 will be our entertainment for the afternoon. Billed as the “shortest horn-band” in the world, these seven youngsters feature 11-year-old twin trumpet players. They specialize in “Cajun-Soul” and have appeared on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Kimmel, and Steve Harvey’s “Little Big Shots”. They will play from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm. They recently returned from shows in Germany and Albania. This family will be a don’t-miss treat for your family! Visitors can enjoy our delicious food and beverages while the kids play at our Kid’s World with giant slides and Mr. Gee’s Balloons and face-painting. Don’t forget the pony rides and petting zoo as well as the famous kid’s train ride. Admission is free and all proceeds go directly to the care of our elderly poor residents. (251) 476-6335

littlesistersofthepoormobile.org

Trick or Trot 5K and Scary Scurry Fun Run

for USA Children’s & Women’s ad on Inside Front Cover

University of South Alabama Moulton Tower, Mobile October 21, 2016

On Friday, October 21, 2016, USA Children’s and Women’s supporters and friends will come together again for the Fourth Annual “Trick or Trot” 5K and Fun Run to raise funds for the Pediatric Emergency Department. This great race will take place at Moulton Tower at the University of South Alabama.

Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

This event is filled with family fun, running, trickor-treating and children’s activities with great food and drinks. The 5K will start at 6:00 p.m. The Fun Run will begin at 7:00 p.m. and is open to walkers and runners of all ages. After race festivities include trick or treating, pumpkin decorating, a photo booth, bounce houses, outdoor movie, train rides, games, music, food and drinks! To date, this race has raised nearly $100,000 for the hospital! Wristbands for Post Race Activities-Each registered runner will receive one wristband in their race bag. Runners can purchase additional wristbands here or day of at the registration tent. Non-Race participants can also purchase wristbands at the Registration Tent day of. For more details, please visit bit.ly/TrickorTrot16. www.usahealthsystem.com/trick-or-trot

Movie Time - Hotel Transylvania 2 Moorer Library/Spring Hill Branch, Mobile October 21, 2016

The Mobile Public Library Moorer/Spring Hill Branch hosts Movie Time with Mr. Butch at 4:00pm. Today’s feature will be Hotel Transylvania 2. The film is rated PG and runs 89 minutes. (251) 470-7770

ftigner@mplonline.com

Pirate Night at the Museum 111 South Royal Street, Mobile October 21, 2016

Pirates invade the museum! Join us to learn about the pirates of the Mobile Bay area, the Gulf Coast and the Caribbean at this unique Halloween event. Come dressed as a pirate, princess, or other character. There will be a scavenger hunt, storytelling, a costume contest, a make a treasure map activity, goody bags with pirate loot, sword fighting demonstrations, and more! Time: 5:00pm-9:00pm.

Admission is $10 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 13-17, $5 for children ages 6-12, and children 5 and under get in for free! Please call (251) 301-0270 for more information or to make a reservation. (251) 301-0270

www.museumofmobile.com

Christ United Methodist Church – Family Fun Day 6101 Grelot Road, Mobile October 22, 2016

Our annual Fall Family Day will happen on Saturday, October 22th from 9:00am – 1:00pm. During Fall Family Day, children can enjoy bouncing on inflatables, a petting zoo, hay rides, face painting, Pumpkin Chunkin’ a performance by the Children’s Ministry Puppet Team and live music. We will have delicious foods and treats for sale, including snow cones, cotton candy and hotdogs. (251) 342-0462

www.christumcmobile.com

Lil’ Ghouls and Goblins Halloween Gathering 350 Oakleigh Place, Mobile October 22, 2016

Bring your little ones in costume to Historic Oakleigh House for a Halloween gathering. We will have face painting, crafts, story time, games and special treats! Children 12 and under, only please. $5 per child. (251) 432-1281

www.historicoakleigh.com

Dauphin Way Methodist Fall Festival

Corner of Dauphin and Catherine Streets, Mobile October 23, 2016

The festival takes place in the Pumpkin Patch at the corner of Catherine and Dauphin Street. The

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festival will be held from 2:30pm-4:30pm and is FREE. Costumes are acceptable, but not required. Popcorn, drinks, snow cones, and cotton candy will be available along with a train ride, inflatables, dunk tank (.50/throw) and other activities for kids. (251) 471-1511

www.dauphinwayumc.org

Woofstock

Bienville Square, Mobile October 23, 2016

Woofstock will spread out over an entire city block allowing for even more fun activities, vendor booths, contests and more! We invite humans and their canine companions to spend the day listening to live, local music, enjoying the great food and libations and of course, let’s not forget the ever popular Weiner Dog Race and all-time favorite Doggie Costume Contest. This event benefits The Animal Rescue Foundation. Gates open at 11:00pm. Cost Adults $10/Children $5. www.woofstockmobile.com

Halloween Spooktacular Saraland Public Library, Saraland October 27, 2016

Join us at 6:00pmm for Monster Hand Punch and Graveyard Pudding Cups! Try on different Halloween costumes, make some crafts, and Trick or Treat throughout the Library. (251) 675-2879

St. Mary Parish Trunk or Treat ad on page 21

107 North Lafayette Street, Mobile October 27, 2016

The pre-Halloween event features decorated cars with trunks of candy for trick or treaters. Prizes for best trunk, and best costumes. Plenty of activities for children to include arts and crafts, and cookie decorating. Time: 5:00pm-7:00pm. The cost is $1 per walk up per trick or treater. All those who would like to participate with a decorated car and a trunk full of treats can reserve a spot by contacting Laurel Wallace at lwallace@stmarymobile.org or (251) 432-8678. (251) 432-8678

www.stmarymobile.org

(251) 344-4573

www.thegroundsmobile.com

Pump It Up Not-So-Scary Halloween Jump

House of Bounce Halloween 6368 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile

741-A Hillcrest Road, Mobile

October 27, 2016

House of Bounce – Halloween. It’s A Boo-Tastic Halloween on Thursday from 10:00am-12:30pm Jump on in for our Boo-tastic Costume Contest & Open Jump Fun. Dance, Jump, Slide and Sing with your Friends in your Halloween Costume! Every Child in Costume will receive a Treat Bag and 1 Lucky Costume Winner will receive a SPECIAL GIFT! $8.00 per child. (251) 666-3456

annual Greater Gulf State Fair. This year’s Fair will feature a new theme “Fair Takes Flight” which aims to host feature the greatness of everything flight related under one roof as well as more than 30 adult rides, 30 kid rides and a must-see entertainment line-up!

www.houseofbouncemobile.com

Halloween Haunt ad on page 13

Spanish Fort Town Center, 29000 Bass Pro Drive October 28, 2016

October 28, 2016

Halloween is simply spook-tacular when you’re bouncing, laughing, sliding, and howling at our Halloween Jump Night! Cost: $8 plus tax per childincludes up to 2 hours of playtime, face painting and costume contests too! Parents stay and play for FREE! RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED as space is limited for the safety of the children. Socks and signed waived required. Parents must stay with children- not a drop off. Note: Wear your “Play Safe” costume - For the safety of our guests, costumes may not include: masks, jewelry, capes or other hanging items, or heavy make-up. Times: 6pm-8pm. (251) 342-3940

www.pumpitupparty.com/mobile-al

Join us at Town Center Park for some spooky fun: trick-or-treating, local food trucks, live DJ, mini-train rides and more!

5 Rivers Halloween Bash

855-411-7545

5 Rivers Halloween Bash! 10am-4pm, Free, Family Fun! Our favorite time of year! On Saturday, Oct 29 from 10:00am-4:00pm, we will have our FREE, family friendly Halloween celebration. There will be crafts, music, movies, trail rides, games, $5 boat tours, food trucks, and a costume contest at 1:00pm.

christy@gravitypromo.com

Greater Gulf State Fair ad on page 3

1035 North Cody Road, Mobile

October 28 through November 6, 2016

It’s time for the Fair! The Grounds will host the 62nd

30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort October 29, 2016

(251) 625-0814

www.Alabama5Rivers.com

The besT physicians from across The counTry: even beTTer when They’re in one place Same-day appointments. Lightning-fast referrals. A full network of more than 70 specialists and primary care physicians. You’d expect to travel out of state for this kind of clinic, but it’s all right here at the Mobile Infirmary campus plus eight other convenient locations. Because patients should spend less time going from doctor to doctor—and more time getting better. diagnosticandmedical.com 251.435.1200

More, devoted to your care.

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Annual Renaissance Festival 51 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island October 29, 2016

The Barony of Osprey will present Life in the Middle Ages. You will see Knight in Armor as they storm the castle, view melee’s and sieges. Visit with Lords, Ladies, Artist and Medieval Merchants. Watch our resident Blacksmith demonstrate his craft in the Fort’s original Blacksmith Shop. dauphinisland.org

Boo at Bellingrath: Tricks and Treats

12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Mobile October 29, 2016

Dress up your little ghosts and goblins and come to Bellingrath Gardens and Home for Boo at Bellingrath, a day of Halloween fun in the Gardens. The Gardens will be filled with Halloween-themed inflatables to guide visitors along the pathways to the Great Lawn. Local businesses and organizations will set up numerous treat stations to hand out candy and trinkets to trick-or-treaters. Magic shows led by Dr. Gee of Dr. Gee’s Magic and Balloons and entertainment by Back Pew Riders. The event will begin at 11:00am and end at 3:00pm. Guests are also invited to enjoy culinary delights from local food trucks! In addition, hands-on crafts and activities will be offered at different locations in the Gardens to entertain parents and children alike. Although the official hours for Boo at Bellingrath are 11:00am to 3:00pm, the Gardens will be open during the regular hours of 8:00am to 5:00pm. Admission is $13 for adults and $7.50 for ages 5-12. There is

Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

no charge for Bellingrath members and children 4 and younger. Registration is encouraged, please call (251) 973-2217. (251) 973-2217

bellingrath.org

City of Chickasaw Founders Day 604 Dumont Street , Chickasaw October 29, 2016

We are celebrating Chickasaw Founders Day with a fun-filled Founder’s Day festival. This celebration is sponsored by our Chamber of Commerce and features kid’s games and activities, such as a football toss and face painting, as well as entertainment for the whole family, including live music, dancing, costume contests and a silent auction. The festival also includes good food from various local vendors as well as arts and crafts vendors. chickasawchamber.com

Dog River Ghost Chase 5K/Goblin Gallop

4960 Dauphin Island Parkway, Mobile October 29, 2016

The 7th Annual Dog River Ghost Chase 5K River Run and Gobin Gallop will be held on Saturday, October 29th at 5:00pm. Spectacular views of Dog River and Mobile Bay from the top of the Dog River bridge make this fun pre-Halloween event one of the most popular fall races in Mobile and Baldwin County. After race party with include food and beverages for race participants. The proceeds from this event will go towards Dog River Clearwater Revival’s efforts to improve the water quality of Dog River; preserving fun days on the water for future generations. Pre-register by mail, in person at McCoy Outdoor or Run-N-Tri in Mobile or Running Wild in Fairhope, or online. Pre-registered: Adults $20, Children (12 and

under) $15. Day of Race: Adults $25, and Children (12 and under) $15. Race day registration from 3 – 4:30 PM at the Dockside Marina.

www.dogriver.org

Halloween at the Naval Aviation Museum October 29, 2016

Experience a free, fun-filled, family-friendly Halloween event at the 18th Annual Halloween at the Museum from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Ghouls and ghosts of all ages are encouraged to dress up in costume and explore the Museum’s 350,000 square feet of exhibit space. Trick-or-treat stations will be located throughout the Museum. Free admission for kids in costume to “The Magic of Flight” Giant Screen Theater movie and Blue Angel 4D Experience in Hangar Bay One when accompanied by a paying adult. Get your picture made during the mascot meet-and-greet from 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. and again from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. in the Blue Angels Atrium. (850) 453-2389

www.NavalAviationMuseum.org

Halloween Fun at the Exploreum 65 Government Street, Mobile October 29, 2016

All the kids’ labs at the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center will feature hands on Halloween fun. (251) 208-6893

www.exploreum.com

Trunk or Treat at Moorer/ Spring Hill Library Moorer/Spring Hill Branch October 29, 2016

Join us for Pumpkin Paintings, crafts, and “Trunk or Treating” in the parking lot from 3:00pm - 6:00pm. (251) 470-7770

www.mobilebayparents.com

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October 29, 2016

(251) 675-2728

15161 Ward Road, Wilmer Join us at the Zoo for Trick or Treating, Bounce House, Games, Animal Encounter, Snake Encounter, Petting Zoo, Tiger Feeding and Vendors. Adult Admission 13 and up $8.50 Child’s Admission 12 and Under FREE if in Full Costume. Seniors $7.50. Concessions will be available. Animal Food $3.00. (251) 207-9423

Ashland Place United Methodist Trunk or Treat 15 Wisteria Avenue, Mobile October 30, 2016

Please join us for family-friendly festivities! Our Trunk-or-Treat features a live DJ, bouncy house, carnival games, hot dogs, popcorn, and tons of candy and treats from a variety of themed trunks. The more, the merrier -- so bring a friend! Time: 4:00pm-5:30pm. For more information, contact Amy True, Director of Children’s Ministries, at true@ apumc.com or (251) 478-6356. (251) 478-6356

www.apumc.com

Saraland United Methodist Church Trunk or Treat 415 McKeough Avenue, Mobile October 30, 2016

Join us for our Trunk or Treat on Monday, Oct. 31, from 6:00-7:30. We’ll have hot dogs, chips, and drinks for everyone to enjoy. There will be cars for Trunk or Treat, crafts, a bounce house, and a hayride! EVERYONE is encouraged to come in costume...adults, too! If it rains, come inside and

saralandumc.org

(251) 208-7086

Witches Ride – Mobile

57 North Claiborne Street, Mobile October 30, 2016

Calling all Witches! We are partnering with the Fairhope Witches Ride to bring the Witches Ride to Mobile! On October 30th, we challenge you to get your best, most fabulous witches costume together and hop on your broom (aka your bicycle - yeah decorate that, too!) for a fun ride around downtown Mobile and DeTonti Square. Yes, Warlocks are welcome to register to ride with your Witches! The ride will end with a fabulous block party with live music, libations, and food from local food trucks and our party hosts, The Blind Mule. Prizes for best dressed witch and raffles will be happening, too! All of this fun benefits a good cause - Delta Dogs, a local non-profit that helps provide free spay/neuter and veterinary services to the pets of Mobile’s community in need. Time: 5:00pm. This is an 18+ ride. No children or trailers will be allowed due to the nature of the event and for rider safety. We encourage families to watch the Witches and Warlocks on parade. We will be throwing candy to everyone watching! Families are welcome to meet up with their riders at the block party. mobiledeltadogs.org

Put on your costumes and join us for crafts and Trick or Treating throughout the Library from 4:00pm - 5:00pm.

Historic Ghost Tour of Mobile and Mobile’s Mardi Gras Museum 751 Dauphin Street, Mobile October 31, 2016

You will meet at the Manor for the tour then Board a 55 Passenger Coach at 7:00pm and enjoy stories of ghosts, spirits and strange happenings of historic Mobile. Your guide on the bus will tell the stories as they come to life on the streets of the city by the Mobile Mystery Dinner Players. Hold on to your hat because some of the ‘ghosts’ actually get on the bus!! You will meet characters out of Mobile history. Advance reservations are required. $45.00. (251) 479-9970 or 800-338-5597 www.mobilemysterydinners.com

Movie Time - Hotel Transylvania Parkway Branch Library, Mobile October 31, 2016

The Mobile Public Library Parkway Branch hosts Movie Time at 3:15pm. Today’s feature will be Hotel Transylvania. The film is rated PG and runs 91 minutes. (251) 470-7766

Shadow Lawn Baptist Church 5665 Dogwood Trail, Eight Mile

Halloween Fun at the Ben May Library Ben May Main Branch, Mobile October 31, 2016

October 31, 2016

Our Free Family Christian Alternative Trunk a Treats. We will have games, candy and goodies. The fun is from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Like us on Facebook Shadow Lawn Baptist Church. (251) 675-1447

slbc@att.net

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

Snow Road First Baptist Fall Trunk & Treat

Woodridge Baptist Church “Harvest Celebration” Fall Festival

October 31, 2016

2370 Snow Road North, Semmes

More than 30 trucks decorated and full of candy! We will also have popcorn, hair wraps, arts & crafts, face painting, free hot dogs, chips & drinks, and more! Admission is free to everyone. 6:00 pm - dark. (251) 649-7722

2700 Schillinger Road South, Mobile

Join us October 31st from 5:30pm – 7:30pm for our annual community-wide “Harvest Celebration” fall festival! Children and students of all ages are welcome. Enjoy inflatables, trunk or treat, popcorn, soft drinks, corn dogs, games and candy! (251) 776-4912

Trick or Treat at the Library

www.woodridgebc.com

West Regional Branch, Mobile

Alabama Pecan Festival

Calling all children – put on your costume and join us for Trick or Treating throughout the Library from 4:00pm - 6:00pm.

November 4 through November 6, 2016

October 31, 2016

(251) 340-8571

Trick or Treat in Green Park – Dauphin Island Green Park, Dauphin Island October 31, 2016

Town of Dauphin Island’s 7th Annual Trick or Treat in Green Park. Bring your little ghost and goblins to a fun night for everyone. www.townofdauphinisland.org

5055 Carol Plantation Road, Mobile

This family-oriented festival at the Tillman’s Corner Community Center features a carnival atmosphere with rides, food, face painting, arts and crafts, and jewelry. Free grandstand events include a classic country and western show, a Sunday gospel show with topnotch entertainers, and more. Bring the grandparents and bring the kids. There is something for everyone. Friday5:00pm until; Saturday- 9:00am until; Sunday11:00am until. FREE! (251) 401-5555

www.alabamapecanfestival.com

West Mobile Baptist Trunk or Treat

Fourth Annual Stockton Sawmill Days

October 31, 2016

November 12, 2016

7501 Airport Boulevard, Mobile

51233 Highway 225 North, Stockton

West Mobile Baptist will have Trunk or Treat on Monday, October 31. 6:00pm - 8:00pm. Everything is free including food, games, candy, and inflatables. Join us for fun and fellowship for the whole family. Invite your friends!

Step back in time on the site of Alabama’s firs sawmill as Stockton celebrates its history and heritage as a sawmill town. Draft animals pulling logs; professional lumberjacks demonstrating log-rolling, pole-climbing, crosscut sawing and boom-walking, lumberjack sport camp where pros teach young and

(251) 639-9952

www.wemochurch.org

old alike the art of log-rolling and cross-cut sawing; living history demonstrations - basket making, spinning, weaving, horseshoeing, blacksmithing, syrup making, grist mill, Indian camp, cooking in cast iron pots, oxen and sheep and others. Churn butter, shell corn, gather eggs, and hunt for treasure in a sawdust pile. Live music. Buck dancing contest. “Hayride History Tour” of the park compliments of Baldwin Co. Dept. of Archives & History. Flap jacks & syrup, Sawmill Biscuits, tomato gravy, fried catfish and cheese grits, cracklings, turnip greens, cornbread, BBQ, funnel cakes, buttermilk pie, plus. Bring a lawn chair. Location: Bicentennial Park – 51233 Hwy. 225 N. Stockton, AL from 9:00am4:00pm. Tickets: Adults - $10; Children (5-12) $5; under 5 free. (251) 937-3738

www.stocktonala.com

St. Mary Catholic Mustang Stampede and Fall Festival ad on page 21

107 North Lafayette Street, Mobile

November 18 and November 19, 2016

St. Mary Catholic School Mustang Stampede and Fall Festival! Friday, November 18: 6 p.m. Family Glow Race: $40 per runner, or $80 per family. (kids run free when 2 adults register). Includes Mustang shorts, great food, music, tunnels, prizes and more! Saturday, November 19: 10:00am2:00pm St. Mary Fall Festival featuring games, and more great food and fun! Admission is free. Varied costs for game tickets and food and beverage items. (251) 433-9904

www.stmarymobile.org MBP

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Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

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A Page in a Book

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In a picture book landscape largely populated with bright colors, bold shapes, and a wilderness of creative fonts there reside marvelously stark standout titles that use the suggestive subtleties of pencil illustrations to carry the weight of a tale. With few or no words, the following masterpieces wield the power of pencil art to drive the story in absence of color and words. Young readers are freed from neon distractions to really delve into the imagery, to let their own dialogue and imaginings inform the story along the way. The following titles are recommended for their distinct voice and brilliant storytelling rendered in shade and silence.

The Whale

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by Ethan Murrow and Vita Murros (Templar / Candlewick) When a local paper revisits a 50-year-old news event about two youngsters who claimed to have seen an enormous spotted whale off shore, the hook is set for another couple of kids who want to find proof the behemoth exists. Working independently, a girl equips her small boat with improvised video devices while a boy loads his dinghy with tools to capture audio evidence of the elusive spotted whale. But after their boats collide and wreck during the search, teamwork becomes their only option to salvage their mission and prove the mysterious monster exists. Brilliantly executed pencil illustration reveals a wordless journey that is rich with atmosphere, intrigue and excitement in this whale of a tale!

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The Only Child

by Guojing (Schwartz & Wade / Random House) Sneaking out of the house to visit her grandmother, a young child’s wandering evolves from misadventure into a magical tale of wordless wonder. Accidentally stranded in the woods, the little girl encounters a stag who introduces her to paths through forest and sky, ocean and snow. Pencil illustrations soften the edges of the lonely landscapes while sharpening the focus on brighter elements in the story; a child’s beaming face, light pouring from an open front door, a full winter moon. Drawing from her childhood during China’s ‘one child’ policy and her own experience of getting lost, Guojing’s stunning story finds the perfect balance between the beauty of solitude and the comfort of companionship.

The Mysteries of Harris Burdick

by Chris Van Allsburg (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) First published in 1984, this revolutionary picture book continues to attract new readers while remaining a touchstone pleasure for its first generation of fans. A fictional editor’s note introduces the collection of images as material left behind by a writer who never returned with the complete stories. Only a title and tantalizing caption for each drawing hint at what the story might have been. Adding to the mystery, each magnificent penciled illustration features some startling surreal element at its center. These bizarre elements transform every reader into an original storyteller as their minds reach to fill in the blanks spaces, to craft their own stories for the orphaned artwork. Pencil in time to revisit this masterpiece!

Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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Family Calendar Sunday September 25

Eastern Shore Jubilee Festival 10:00am - 5:00pm, Olde Towne Daphne, Main Street (Scenic 98), Daphne The Jubilee Festival is an Eastern Shore tradition that offers fine art, crafts, great entertainment and great food in Olde Towne Daphne. Kids Art in the Park offers our children the opportunity to enjoy hands-on art projects and games. It’s so exciting to see those faces enjoying a “jubilee” of activities. www.eschamber.com Vintage Market Days (General Admission (Sat/Sun) $5) 10:00am - 5:00pm, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North, Mobile Vintage Market Days is an upscale vintage-inspired market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more. vintagemarketdays.com Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie” (Adults $15.00; Seniors (over 60), Stu-

dents,& Active Military $12.00)

2:00pm Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street, Mobile Chickasaw Civic Center presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie”. (251) 457-8887 www.cctshows.com

Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Ain’t Misbehavin” ($20, Senior, Active Military, Student with ID $15) 2:00pm Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street, Mobile Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” a musical revue tribute to the black musicians of the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s and ‘30s. (251) 433-7513 mobiletheatreguild.org

September/October2016

1. Please check our website for more information.

(251) 285-CHIC (2442) www.mobfashionweek.com

Wednesday September 28

Fall Brown Bag in Bienville Square (Free) 11:30am - 1:30pm, Bienville Square, Mobile Fall is back and so is live jazz! Brown Bag your lunch and sit under the swirl of the oak trees in Bienville Square. Live music provided by the City of Mobile Special Events Dept. and Catt Sirten. Wednesdays, September 7 through October 26. www.ncsmobile.org Mobile Fashion Week The Steeple at St. Francis, 251 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Fashion Week will be September 25-October 1. Please check our website for more information. (251) 285-CHIC (2442) www.mobfashionweek.com

Thursday September 29

Vintage Affair Gala - American Cancer Society 6:00pm Alabama Cruise Terminal, 201 South Water Street, Mobile The American Cancer Society Vintage Affair Gala, presented by Lexus of Mobile, takes place Thursday, September 29. The Late Night Party (included in ticket) is from 8-11pm on the Terminal Rooftop! Enjoy an evening filled with exquisite cuisine by Clifton Morrissette, fine wines from Red or White and the exciting sounds of the Crowned Jewelz Band! Sure to thrill are the live and silent auctions which include fabulous trips, estate jewelry and original local art featuring artist Ashley Terrell. Experience one of Mobile’s premier philanthropic events as we join together to save lives and party for a cause... even if it takes all night! (251) 344-9858 www.vintageaffairmobile.org

Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents Rhapsody in Blue 2:30pm Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street, Mobile Not just blue – but red, white and blue! Our season opens with the most American of all classical hits. You’ll also hear Korngold’s Overture to The Sea Hawk and Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 2. (251) 432-2010 mobilesymphony.org

Mobile Fashion Week The Steeple at St. Francis, 251 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Fashion Week will be September 25-October 1. Please check our website for a more information. (251) 285-CHIC (2442) www.mobfashionweek.com

Monday September 26

Mobile Pops Concert (Free) 7:00pm Mary G Montgomery High School, 4275 Snow Road North, Semmes City of Semmes Presents “The Mobile Pops” - Free Concert www.cityofsemmes.org Mobile Fashion Week The Steeple at St. Francis, 251 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Fashion Week will be September 25-October 1. Please check our website for more information. (251) 285-CHIC (2442) www.mobfashionweek.com

Tuesday September 27

Read to Rex and His Friends (Free) 3:00pm - 4:30pm, West Regional Branch Library, 5555 Grelot Road, Mobile Set Up an Appointment to Read to Rex and His Friends. The Pet Therapy dogs are at the Library and ready to listen to a good story. Practice your reading skills with a four-legged friend. Time and space is limited. To schedule your 10 minute reading time, please call the children’s department at 340-8571. (251) 340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Mobile Fashion Week The Steeple at St. Francis, 251 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Fashion Week will be September 25-October

Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

Friday September 30

TenSixtyFive (Free) Downtown Mobile, Mobile TenSixtyFive is a laid back street party celebrating music, local artists and makers, and locally owned establishments in Downtown Mobile the weekend of September 30th, October 1st and 2nd, 2016. We will showcase local, regional, and national bands on two main stages, as well as a kids zone and a local art market, all weekend long. www.tensixtyfive.com

Saturday October 1

Family Promise Rummage Sale 7:00am - 1:00pm, Forest Hill United Methodist Church, 4807 Princeton Drive, Mobile Rummage sale to benefit Family Promise of Coastal Alabama. (251) 441-1991 www.familypromisemobile.org Kingswood United Methodist Church Fall Fundraiser 7:00am - 3:00pm, Kingswood United Methodist Church, 5200 Perin Road, Mobile Kingswood United Methodist Church Fall Fundraiser is Saturday, October 1 at the church. Proceeds benefit various mission projects. (251) 661-0420

Feeding the Gulf Coast Program - Perennial Vegetable Gardening (Free) 10:00am - 12:00pm, Ben May Main Library, 701

Government Street, Mobile Feeding the Gulf Coast (formerly Bay Area Food Bank) and the Mobile Public Library invite the public to a screening of “Perennial Vegetable Gardening with Eric Toensmeier”. Admission is free, but registration is encouraged. (251) 653-1617 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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Oakleigh in Mourning ($12 ) 3:00pm Historic Oakleigh, 300 Oakleigh Place, Mobile Select Dates throughout October On September 29, 1856, Corrine Irwin died from typhoid fever two weeks before her wedding. As the 160 year anniversary of her passing nears, please join the staff of Historic Oakleigh for a living history tour of the house dressed in traditional mourning. Living history tours with character guides will be offered at 3pm everyday, during operating hours. (251) 432-1281 www.historicoakleigh.com/ oakleigh-in-mourning

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Mobile Fashion Week The Steeple at St. Francis, 251 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Fashion Week will be September 25-October 1. Please check our website for more information. (251) 285-CHIC (2442) www.mobfashionweek.com TenSixtyFive (Free) Downtown Mobile, Mobile TenSixtyFive is a laid back street party celebrating music, local artists and makers, and locally owned establishments in Downtown Mobile the weekend of September 30th, October 1st and 2nd, 2016. We will showcase local, regional, and national bands on two main stages, as well as a kids zone and a local art market, all weekend long. www.tensixtyfive.com

Sunday October 2

5 Rivers Animal Ambassadors Meet and Greet

(Free)

2:00pm - 2:30pm, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Alabama has one of the highest plant and animal diversities in the United States. Join a member of our human educational staff and meet one of the local critter inhabitants from the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and beyond. (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com

Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic 2:00pm Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive, Mobile Join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and the comical duo of Donald and Goofy as 25 of your favorite characters surprise and captivate at every turn of the knob! See the Fairy Godmother transform Cinderella’s rags into a beautiful ball gown in a split second; the Toy Story gang defy the dimensions of Andy’s toy box with the help of the green army men; and the

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Family Calendar spectacular stage debut of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider as they rise into the sky amidst the floating lanterns. With special appearances by Snow White, Tinker Bell and Aladdin’s Genie, you never know what to expect or who might join in the fun. (251) 208-7381 www.mobilecivicctr.com Dauphin Island Sunset Concert ($5.00 ) 5:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Sunset Concert. Bring chairs, blankets, snacks, drinks and bug spray. Admission $5.00 per person children 12 and under free. townofdauphinisland.org Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic 6:00pm Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive, Mobile Join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and the comical duo of Donald and Goofy as 25 of your favorite characters surprise and captivate at every turn of the knob! See the Fairy Godmother transform Cinderella’s rags into a beautiful ball gown in a split second; the Toy Story gang defy the dimensions of Andy’s toy box with the help of the green army men; and the spectacular stage debut of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider as they rise into the sky amidst the floating lanterns. With special appearances by Snow White, Tinker Bell and Aladdin’s Genie, you never know what to expect or who might join in the fun. (251) 208-7381 www.mobilecivicctr.com TenSixtyFive (Free) Downtown Mobile, Mobile TenSixtyFive is a laid back street party celebrating music, local artists and makers, and locally owned establishments in Downtown Mobile the weekend of September 30th, October 1st and 2nd, 2016. We will showcase local, regional, and national

September/October2016

bands on two main stages, as well as a kids zone and a local art market, all weekend long. www.tensixtyfive.com

Tuesday October 4

5 Rivers StoryTime: “Snappsy the Alligator” by Julie Falatko (Free) 10:00am - 11:00am, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. This week’s story stars Snappsy the Alligator, of course, and a narrator that he has some disagreements with! (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com 5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night (Free) 6:00pm - 8:30pm, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com

Street, Mobile The Learning Lunch series allows guests to enjoy free presentations on a wide range of historical and cultural topics. Admission to Learning Lunch is free, and all are encouraged to join us. Bring your lunch and enjoy complimentary beverages. Frye Gaillard, Author and University of South Alabama Writer in Residence, Go South to Freedom will speak at Learning Lunch. (251) 208-7569 www.museumofmobile.com Alabama Coastal Birdfest The 13th Annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest is October 5-8. Alabama Coastal BirdFest is an annual event with guided trips, speakers, dinners, and free activities on the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast. Trips and evening events require advance registration. Registration opens in early August. Visit www.AlabamaCoastalBirdFest.com to learn more. (251) 625-0814 www.alabamacoastalbirdfest.com

Thursday October 6

Wednesday October 5

Fall Brown Bag in Bienville Square (Free) 11:30am - 1:30pm, Bienville Square, Mobile Fall is back and so is live jazz! Brown Bag your lunch and sit under the swirl of the oak trees in Bienville Square. Live music provided by the City of Mobile Special Events Dept. and Catt Sirten. Wednesdays, September 7 through October 26. www.ncsmobile.org History Museum of Mobile Learning Lunch (Free) 12:00pm History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal

7th Annual Think Pink Tea 4:00pm - 6:00pm, Alabama Cruise Terminal, 201 South Water Street, Mobile Join us for a fun celebration of breast cancer survivors during Breast Cancer Awareness Month presented by USA Mitchell Cancer Institute and USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital. The event includes a runway fashion show staffed by survivors, family members and caregivers. www.usahealthsystem.com/ thinkpinktea

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Family Calendar Night Market 5:00pm - 9:00pm, Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive, Mobile MMofA hosts a monthly Night Market that showcases makers, artists, artisans, and craftsman who make locally-sourced, handmade goods. Support your local artists and join the party and shopping fun with great food, drink, and live music. (251) 208-5200 www.mobilemuseumofart.com 4th Annual LEGO Competition 6:00pm - 8:00pm, Creekwood Church of Christ, 1901 Schillinger Road South, Mobile Bright Beginnings Academy is hosting its’ 4th annual LEGO competition A cake decorating competition is added to this year’s agenda. Children between the ages of 5 and 13 may participate in either competition. Sonny’s BBQ is preparing the meal. Admission is $10.00 for one child to participate in either the LEGO competition or the cake decorating competition. A meal is included with the child’s admission ticket. Additional entries may be purchased for either event (LEGO or cake decorating). The cost is $3.00 for the additional entry. Admission for nonparticipants is $7.00 which includes admission into this one of a kind evening, as well as, an excellent meal provided by Sonny’s BBQ. Please feel free to contact us for more information at (251) 525-9105. Come join us for a fabulous time. Your kids will love it! (251) 525-9105

Cocktails and Furry Tails 6:00pm - 9:00pm, The Steeple at St. Francis, 251 St. Francis Street, Mobile Join us for an evening to celebrate the pets of our community in the beautifully renovated church on St. Francis. Food provided by Bay Gourmet, silent auction and entertainment. saveastray.rescuegroups.org Lost Antebellum Alabama 6:00pm Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street, Mobile Come meet Jim Phillips as he discusses lesser known facts regarding pioneer development of Alabama. Tonight’s topics include - the lost treasures from Dauphin Island and Perdido Bay; the haunting of Alabama plantations; and Mobile riverboat tragedies of the era. Enjoy a display of antebellum artifacts and relics from his collection. (251) 208-7097 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Alabama Coastal Birdfest The 13th Annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest is October 5-8. Alabama Coastal BirdFest is an annual event with guided trips, speakers, dinners, and free activities on the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast. Trips and evening events require advance registration. Registration opens in early August. Visit www.AlabamaCoastalBirdFest.com to learn more. (251) 625-0814 www.alabamacoastalbirdfest.com

Friday October 7

Oakleigh - First Friday Lawn Party 4:00pm - 7:00pm, Historic Oakleigh, 300 Oakleigh Place, Mobile First Friday Lawn Party at Historic Oakleigh. www.historicoakleigh.com Alabama Coastal Birdfest The 13th Annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest is October 5-8. Alabama Coastal BirdFest is an annual event with guided trips, speakers, dinners, and free activities on the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast. Trips and evening events require advance registration. Registration opens in early August. Visit www.AlabamaCoastalBirdFest.com to learn more. (251) 625-0814 www.alabamacoastalbirdfest.com

Saturday October 8

6th Annual Dog River Fishing Tournament (Adult Fee $35, Youth (ages 6-15) Fee $20 and Children (ages 5 and under FREE)

Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

September/October2016

6:00am - 3:00pm, Southern Bama Bait & Tackle, 4012 Dauphin Island Parkway, Mobile Lines in at 6AM. Fish can come from anywhere in inshore Alabama waters (Mobile/Baldwin County only). Register online, in person at Southern Bama Bait & Tackle. The proceeds from this event will go towards Dog River Clearwater Revival’s efforts to improve the water quality of Dog River; preserving fun days on the water for future generations. dogriver.org Bird and Conservation Expo (Free) 9:00am - 4:00pm, Faulkner State Community College, 450 Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope Exhibits, vendors, artists, hands-on activities for all ages, live raptor demonstrations, sea creature touch tanks, and lots more! FREE, 9am-4pm at Faulkner State Community College, Fairhope. www.Alabama5Rivers.com Commedia del Arte presents “The Importance of Being Earnest” 7:30pm - 9:30pm, Episcopal Church of the Redeemer, 7125 Hitt Road, Mobile Join Commedia del Arte as they perform Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest.” When two gentlemen are caught using the same alias to win the hearts of the women they love, hilarity ensues. www.commediadelarte.org Step Out to Stop Diabetes 8:00am Gordon and Geri Moulton Tower, Mobile We Step Out to do our part to Stop Diabetes and take steps to improve our health! Participants are changing the future and making a positive impact in the lives of those who are affected by diabetes. stepout.diabetes.org

and so is live jazz! Brown Bag your lunch and sit under the swirl of the oak trees in Bienville Square. Live music provided by the City of Mobile Special Events Dept. and Catt Sirten. Wednesdays, September 7 through October 26. www.ncsmobile.org Meet Paula Deen in Mobile 5:00pm - 7:00pm, Belk Department Store, 3201 Bel Air Boulevard, Mobile Paula is stopping by for the Grand Opening of a new Belk store in Mobile, Alabama! Meet Paula and have your photo taken together.

Thursday October 13

Kid’s Studio (Free) 4:00pm - 5:00pm, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street, Mobile Children ages 8-13 and their parents are invited to explore contemporary art and music through hands-on and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of current exhibitions. (251) 208-7086 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 10th Annual Wine Fest for Catholic Social Services 5:30pm - 8:30pm, Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive, Mobile Catholic Social Services of Mobile will host Wine Fest at Mobile Botancial Gardens. There will be delicious food and wine throughout the evening and musical entertainment. Tickets are $75 and benefit Catholic Social Services. www.catholicsocialservicesmobile.com

Mobile Opera - Afternoon of the Stars (Free) 3:00pm Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street, Mobile Members of the cast of Mobile Opera’s The Devil and Daniel Webster will perform their favorite musical selections. Stage Director, Paul Houghtaling and Maestro Curtis Tucker will also be on hand to discuss the production of the Mobile Opera. Enjoy beautiful music and meet the stars over light refreshments following the performance. (251) 208-7097 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Dauphin Island Sunset Concert ($5.00 per person

Children 12 and under are free.)

6:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Sunset Concerts. Bring chairs, blankets, drinks, snacks and bug spray. Proceeds go to the Little Red Schoolhouse Relocation Fund. townofdauphinisland.org

Tuesday October 11

5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night (Free) 6:00pm - 8:30pm, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com

Wednesday October 12

Fall Brown Bag in Bienville Square (Free) 11:30am - 1:30pm, Bienville Square, Mobile Fall is back

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Alabama Coastal Birdfest The 13th Annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest is October 5-8. Alabama Coastal BirdFest is an annual event with guided trips, speakers, dinners, and activities on the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast. Trips and evening events require advance registration. Registration opens in early August. Visit www.AlabamaCoastalBirdFest.com to learn more. (251) 625-0814 www.alabamacoastalbirdfest.com

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3rd Annual Boots & BBQ Barn Bash ($60) 6:30pm Camp Grace, 11081 Wanda Drive, Mobile The third annual Boots & BBQ Barn Bash to benefit the Children’s of Alabama Pediatric Rheumatology Clinic in Mobile. Guests are invited to enjoy barbeque and an evening of live music from local favorite cover band, the Bearded Spoon. Guests are encouraged to wear their best pair of cowboy boots and enjoy s’mores, hayrides and bonfires. Moe’s Original Bar B Que will provide their award-winning barbecue and sides for dinner. Admission is $60 per person and $500 per table. To register online, visit http://give.childrensal. org/barnbash. Further updates can also be found on the event’s Facebook page. (251) 610-4969 www.give.childrensal.org/barnbash Live from Avalon ($15 ) 7:00pm Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street, Mobile Alabama’s Gulf Coast has been a hidden mecca for music...gumbo of diverse cultural influences. The result is a vibrant music community resonating with a sound and rhythm that reflects life in this southern Avalon. Come enjoy a night of spectacular local music with Paw Paws Medicine Cabinet. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Friday October 14

Live Oak Forum presents Nall 8:00am Holiday Inn, 301 Government Street, Mobile The doors open at 8 am and breakfast is served. The program begins at 8:30 am. Nall will tell his story, as well as, speak on the impact of creativity on communi-

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Family Calendar ties. He will be joined by David Clark, General Manager of The Beach Club, who will speak on “Earning the Right to Lead through Servant Leadership”. www.downtownmobile.org Little Discoveries with Mr. Wayne (Free) 10:30am - 11:30am, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street, Mobile Mr. Wayne from the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center presents lessons and projects fusing science and literature for preschool children. (251) 208-7086 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org LoDA Artwalk 6:00pm - 9:00pm, Downtown Mobile, Mobile Second Fridays in the LoDA Art District have become quite a popular time and place to be! With the LoDA ArtWalk in its 9th year, the event seems to be getting better each month. Join downtown art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops as they open their doors and welcome you inside to see beautiful artwork, sample delicious foods and hear the sounds of the LoDA Artwalk. www.ncsmobile.org Fall Movie Night 7:00pm Semmes Community Center, 10141 Moffett Road, Semmes Movie Night at the Semmes Community Center. www.cityofsemmes.org Pixar in Concert 7:00pm - 9:00pm, Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street, Mobile Mobile Symphony’s special event this season: Disney’s Pixar in Concert! A multimedia concert featuring a movie projection screen above the orchestra! You will see excerpts from your favorite Pixar films while your MSO provides the score. A one of a kind cinematic experience you won’t want to miss! (251) 432-2010 www.mobilesymphony.org Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents “Tom Sawyer” 7:00pm Moorer Center for Performing Arts, 1400 University Boulevard South, Mobile Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents “Tom Sawyer”. (251) 510-1808 www.sunnysidedrama.com

Saturday October 15

Tri the Gulf 7:00am Isle of Dauphine Club, 100 Orleans Drive, Dauphin Island Brought to you by the Mobile Bar Foundation, Tri the Gulf is a sprint triathlon on Dauphin Island, Alabama consisting of a 600 yard gulf swim, 13.3 mile island + bridge bike, and 3.1 mile island run. trithegulf.com

Batre-Coden Historical Foundation while we celebrate a treasure of our heritage, the bayou, as we PADDLE BAYOU LA BATRE! Paddlers will have an up-close and personal experience of being on a true working bayou, lined with shipyards, shrimpboats, and scenic natural vistas. Experience and learn the Bayou’s history as you traverse the waters. Paddle under the vertical lift-bridge, one of Bayou La Batre’s landmarks. Seafood dinner afterwards. Price includes t-shirt. Awesome door prizes! (251) 463-4233 www.paddlebayoulabatre.org Dauphin Island Art Trail 9:00am - 4:00pm, 10 Locations around Dauphin Island, Dauphin Island Join us for the Art Trail with 10 locations and over 50 artists. (251) 861-6001 www.dauphinislandchamber.com Mobile Literary Festival 9:00am - 4:00pm, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street, Mobile The Mobile Literary Festival offers readers and writers a day packed with literary entertainment including a local author showcase, workshops, a panel discussion on the publishing industry with the area’s leading literary professionals, and an author chat with author, actor, and athlete Thom Gossom, Jr. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org South Alabama BBQ Festival 10:00am Mobile Zoo, 15161 Ward Road West, Mobile BBQ Festival at the Mobile Zoo. (251) 207-9423 www.mobilezoo.cc Polo at the Point (Tickets range from $10 (tailgate) to $150 (luncheon))

11:00am Sonny Hill-Clearwater Polo Complex, 7883 County Road 32, Point Clear Polo at the Point has become one of Alabama’s top one-day fundraiser events. The Gulf Coast’s premier charity sporting event has designated Thomas Hospital and Mitchell Cancer Institute as its main beneficiaries. Event highlights include world-class polo, gourmet cuisine, champagne, divot stomping, tailgating fun, reserved seating, garden party attire in the luncheon tent, hat parade, Mercedes Drawn Down, Silent Auction, SEC sports center, evening Player’s Party and much more. (251) 928-9704 poloatthepoint.com Thomas Perez - Author & Playwright 2:00pm - 4:00pm, Moorer/Springhill Branch, 4 McGregor South, Mobile Local author and playwright Thomas Perez will read excerpts from his new novel, Sister Mary Bartholomew’s Basic Training Manual for Religious Tyrants, a comic satire of a 13 year-old troublemaker growing up Catholic on the Gulf Coast. (251) 208-7097 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Free Irish Dance Workshop: Fun with Jigs and Reels! Learn the basic Irish jig and other intro to Irish dancing steps. Workshop is free for ages 5 - 18. No prior dance experience necessary. Hosted by the Maccrossan School of Irish Dance. Time slot is 1:30 - 3:30. Azalea City Center of the Arts, 63 Midtown Park East. (228) 239-2422

Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents “Tom Sawyer” 7:00pm Moorer Center for Performing Arts, 1400 University Boulevard South, Mobile Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents “Tom Sawyer”. (251) 510-1808 www.sunnysidedrama.com Comedian Nick Swardson 8:00pm Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street, Mobile An experienced comic, actor, and writer/producer, Nick Swardson is known for his work on both the small and silver screen. www.mobilesaenger.com

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Family Calendar Family Fun Night at Moe’s BBQ Moe’s BBQ, 701 Spring Hill Avenue, Mobile Family Fun Night - 10% of proceeds will go to ALIDA (Alabama branch of the International Dyslexia Association) to help create awareness and fund teacher and parent workshops. Lighting of RSA Tower RSA Tower, Downtown, Mobile Lighting of the RSA Tower in recognition of the 1 in 5 who have dyslexia.

Sunday October 16

5 Rivers Animal Ambassadors Meet and Greet

(Free)

Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents “Tom Sawyer” 2:00pm Moorer Center for Performing Arts, 1400 University Boulevard South, Mobile Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents “Tom Sawyer”. (251) 510-1808 www.sunnysidedrama.com

September/October2016

Street, Mobile We are excited to announce our 2nd annual FARMRAISER at Victory Teaching Farm. Save the date and join us for an evening of deliciously prepared, locally grown food by some of Mobile and Baldwin’s best chefs, meet the farmers, enjoy great music and drinks, all with a sunset ending on the farm! victoryteachingfarm.org Signature Chef’s Auction 6:00pm - 9:00pm, Admiral Hotel, 251 Government Street, Mobile The March of Dimes 26th annual Signature Chefs Auction is a culinary event featuring distinguished chefs and fine dining establishments in South Alabama. Local chefs showcase their culinary masterpieces in a five course seated dinner with fabulous entertainment and lively auctions featuring one-of-a-kind packages. (251) 345-6480 www.signaturechefs.org Skillet in Concert 7:00pm Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street, Mobile Skillet lets their music speak the loudest. That’s how the quartet has cemented its place as one of the 21st century’s most successful rock bands. www.mobilesaenger.com Angel Ride Oak Hollow Farm, 14210 South Greeno Rd, Fairhope Join us for the 2016 Angel Ride at Oak Hollow Farm. This fundraiser has silent auction, live entertainment, escorted ride and camping available. www.angel-ride.org

Friday October 21

Out of the Darkness Walk 2:45pm Daphne City Hall, 1705 Main Street, Daphne The Out of the Darkness Community Walk for suicide awareness and prevention will take place Sunday, October 20th at Daphne City Hall with registration beginning at 1 pm. The fundraising walk supports the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, by helping to support local and national suicide prevention and awareness programs. (251) 455-6453 www.outofthedarkness.org

Tuesday October 18

5 Rivers StoryTime: “Room on the Broom” by Julia Donaldson (Free) 10:00am - 11:00am, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. This week’s story is about a witch – because it’s almost Halloween! The lovely lady loses some items off of her broom, and some friends help her find them. All they want is a ride, but is there room? (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com

Wednesday October 19

Fall Brown Bag in Bienville Square (Free) 11:30pm - 1:30pm, Bienville Square, Mobile Fall is back and so is live jazz! Brown Bag your lunch and sit under the swirl of the oak trees in Bienville Square. Live music provided by the City of Mobile Special Events Dept. and Catt Sirten. Wednesdays, September 7 through October 26. www.ncsmobile.org

Thursday October 20

2nd Annual Down to Earth Farmraiser 5:30pm - 8:30pm, Victory Teaching Farm, 261 Rickarby

Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

6th Annual Chip in for Autism 11:30am Azalea City Golf Course, Mobile The sixth annual “Chip in for Autism” Golf Tournament to benefit The Learning Tree’s Woody’s Song School is planned for Friday, October 21, 2016 at the Azalea City Golf Course in Mobile, AL. Registration begins at 11:30 am with a shotgun start at 1:00 pm. Registration is $60 per player, which includes a bucket of range balls, tournament round, cart and dinner. Dinner will follow the tournament provided by Naman’s Catering. The Learning Tree is a nonprofit organization providing educational and residential services for children with developmental disabilities, including autism. Woody’s Song School, a non-traditional, year-round school, offers children a unique educational program focusing on increasing skills in the areas of language, socialization and cognition, while decreasing behaviors that interfere with learning. For tournament registration information or sponsorship opportunities, contact Cindy Fulford at 251-656-0070 or cfulford@voase.org or Teresa Atkins at 251-331-2633 or tatkins@learning-tree.org. (251) 331-2633

Jason Isbelle in Concert 8:00pm Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street, Mobile Jason Isbell plus John Ritter in concert at the Saenger. www.mobilesaenger.com Mobile Opera presents “The Devil and Daniel Webster” 8:00pm The Temple Downtown, 351 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Opera presents “The Devil and Daniel Webster”. www.mobileopera.org

Saturday October 22

around the fountain and breakfast at Spot of Tea. (251) 208-1550 www.ncsmobile.org Saraland Harvest Festival YMCA 8K, 5K, 1 Mile Fun Run 8:00am Amelia Park, Saraland Register today for the Harvest Festival Race. www.eventbrite.com/e/saraland-harvest-festival-8k-5kand-fun-run-tickets-27009690712 The 7th Annual “Shirley Looney Memorial” Car Show 8:00am Dauphin Way Baptist Church, 3661 Dauphin Street, Mobile We always have a large assortment of new and classic cars, trucks, hot rods and rat rods. Registration opens at 8:00 am. Entry fee is $20 if received by October 13, and $25 day of show. Awards include Shirley’s Choice, Best of Show PLUS $250 Cash, People’s Choice, Best Paint, Best Interior, Best Engine, Top 30 and Sponsor Awards. We will also have 25 plus various vendors selling unique and interesting items for the entire family! Hamburgers and hot dogs will be grilled on site and for sale. This is a FREE event open for the public to attend, and is a benefit for Youth Missions and Camp Scholarships. To download a flyer and registration form, go to www.dwbc.org and click on the “forms” button at the top of the page. For more information, please call Dauphin Way Baptist Church at 251-445-4163, and ask for Robin. (251) 445-4163 www.dwbc.org St. Mary Steve Thompson 9th Annual Memorial Golf Tournament 11:00am Spring Hill Golf Course, Mobile Registration and catered lunch at 11 a.m., Scramble Shotgun Start at noon. Spring Hill Golf Course. $100 per player. Prizes for closest to the pin and longest drive and more! Teams and sponsors welcome! For registration, contact Desi Tobias at desi@tmclawyers.com or (251) 432-0714. All proceeds benefit St. Mary Catholic School.

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Cardboard City 4:00pm Alabama School of Math and Science, 1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile The 11th annual Cardboard City event aimed at raising awareness for homelessness will be held Saturday, Oct. 22 at the Alabama School of Math and Science. Members of the community plan to sleep outside in a box or car in support of the cause. The event supports Family Promise of Coastal Alabama, Inc. (251) 441-1991 familypromisemobile.com Doughnut Dash and Dare 5K and Fun Run 6:00pm SGA Pavilion on University of South Alabama Campus, Mobile At the 1.5 mile mark, 5K participants may take the dare to STOP and EAT six delicious Krispy Kreme doughnuts before moving on to finish the 5K. 1 Mile participants may take the Dare to STOP and EAT one delicious Krispy Kreme doughnut before moving on to finish the 1 Mile. This race is benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of South Alabama. www.eventbrite.com University of Mobile Jazz Band presents “Ol’ Blue Eyes ($10 ) 7:00pm Saraland Performing Arts Center, 1115 Industrial Parkway, Saraland University of Mobile Jazz Band brings back the iconic tunes of Ol’ Blue Eyes himself. www.umobile.edu

Sunday October 23

NICU Reunion 1:00pm - 3:00pm, USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Mobile More than 500 former patients, their families, and staff are expected to gather at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital for a fall festival that reunites Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) graduates with

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Family Calendar those who cared for them. Costumes are encouraged for children and grown-ups, too. Games, entertainment, and a photo booth will be featured at the event. There is no admission charge. Light refreshments will be served. Free parking will be available at the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute next to Geri Moulton Children’s Park off Springhill, Ave. in Midtown Mobile. (251) 415-1000

Mobile Opera presents “The Devil and Daniel Webster” 2:30pm The Temple Downtown, 351 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Opera presents “The Devil and Daniel Webster”. www.mobileopera.org “The Big Picture” Crescent Theater, Mobile Showing of “The Big Picture - Rethinking Dyslexia”. Tickets are $15 and proceeds benefit ALIDA (Alabama branch of the International Dyslexia Association)

Tuesday October 25

Reading PAWS - Need a Good Listener (Free) 3:00pm - 4:30pm, West Regional Branch Library, 5555 Grelot Road, Mobile et Up an Appointment to Read to Rex and His Friends The Pet Therapy dogs are at the Library and ready to listen to a good story. Practice your reading skills with a four-legged friend. Time and space is limited. To schedule your 10 minute reading time, please call the children’s department. (251) 340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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St. Paul’s Players present The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] by Adam Long, Daniel Singer, and Jess Winfield ($6) This energetic and interactive ride through the twists and turns Shakespeare’s plays will leave audiences nearly breathless with laughter. All 37 plays in 97 minutes? Madness! Please join us at the Monte L. Moorer Theater, on the campus of St. Paul’s Episcopal School, for our celebration of the Bard. Performances are at 7pm on Oct. 26, 27, 29 and at 2pm on Oct. 30. Disclaimer: The comedy in this show contains some crude humor and is best suited to those aged 14 or older. Furthermore, audience members may be asked to participate in portions of the show. For info, email cgoff@stpaulsmobile.net.

Thursday October 27

Live from Avalon ($15 ) 7:00pm Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street, Mobile Alabama’s Gulf Coast has been a hidden mecca for music...gumbo of diverse cultural influences. The result is a vibrant music community resonating with a sound and rhythm that reflects life in this southern Avalon. Come enjoy a night of spectacular local music with The Excelsior Band. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Friday October 28

Angel Ride Oak Hollow Farm, 14210 South Greeno Road, Fairhope Join us for the 2016 Angel Ride at Oak Hollow Farm. This fundraiser has silent auction, live entertainment, escorted ride and camping available. www.angel-ride.org

Saturday October 29

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September/October2016

Food for Thought 6:00pm Camp Grace, 11081 Wanda Drive, Mobile Join us at Camp Grace October 25, 2016 at 6 p.m. to celebrate the work God is doing through Ransom Ministries and to learn more about the vision for the upcoming year. A barbecue dinner will served and a guest speaker will challenge attendees to live out their faith. www.ransomcafe.com 2nd Annual Gridiron Gala 6:30pm Battle House Moonlight Ballroom, 26 North Royal Street, Mobile A Dinner Event Benefiting the YMCA of South Alabama. Masters of Ceremonies Eli Gold & Phil Savage with key note address by Dr. Kevin Elko. www.ysal.org Reflections on a Concentration Camp 6:30pm Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street, Mobile Dr. David Meola visited the Bergen-Belsen camp this summer to identify English language resources for his students. Join us as he compares his experience to an earlier visit and offers observations about the nature of the site, then and now. (251) 208-7097 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wednesday October 26

Fall Market in the Square 7:30am - 12:00pm, Cathedral Square, Mobile The fall harvest is in...join us in Cathedral Square! Come and get your fresh greens, fall corn, squash, peppers, sweet potatoes, pasta’s, seafood, sausage’s, eggs, goat milk cheese, breads and baked goods. Also, shop for locally produced goods like handmade candles, soaps, pottery, and much more. Stay for live music or frolic around the fountain and breakfast at Spot of Tea. (251) 208-1550 www.ncsmobile.org Making Strides South Alabama 8:00am Bienville Square, 150 Dauphin Street, Mobile Why do you walk? So that no one walks alone. You walk with us because we all share a destination, to end the pain and suffering caused by breast cancer. You walk with us in support of the survivors, as well as the ones we’ve lost. You walk for yourself and for the ones you’ll never know. And you walk for the ones you hope that you’ll never have to walk for. (251) 414-1307 main.acsevents.org 5th Annual Salty Worm Brackish Classic and Delta Bash 1:00pm Bluegill Restaurant, 3775 Battleship Parkway, Spanish Fort Fishing tournament and after-party to benefit the Gaillard Pancreatic Cancer Research Endowment. The Brackish Classic is the world’s only fishing tournament that pits saltwater speckled trout fishermen head-to-head with freshwater bass fishermen. The Delta Bash is a family-friendly after-party that enables non-fishermen to join in the fun. (251) 460-7032 eventbrite.com

Ongoing

Civil War Fort Gaines Historic Site, Dauphin Island. For more info call (251) 861-6992. www.dauphinisland.org. Fort Conde Welcome Center Sponsored by Mobile Convention & Visitors Corp. Mobile. For more info call (251) 208-7658. www.mobile.org.

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

Classes/Meetings

APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Regency Church of Christ, 501 S. University Blvd., Mobile. Parent, Youth/Teen Group and Childcare Is Provided. Topic Discussions & ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information please call 251-460-2727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@childrensaid.org. Autism Support Group in North Mobile We have a social play room for higher functioning children (4 and up) to engage and relate. The idea is to have a safe place for parents of Autistic children in our community to link up and network with other families. 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Saraland United Methodist Church, 415 McKeough Ave., Saraland. For more info or to RSVP contact Chris Gibson. Email Chrisgibson4149@gmail.com, or 251-281-7312. Azalea City Harmony Chorus of Sweet Adelines Meets/rehearses each Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Mobile Christian School, The Leopard’s Den. For more info call 251-380-0579 or visit www.azaleacityharmony.com. Circle Of Hope, Sexual Assault Support Group Group meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Call Lifelines Counseling Services to schedule a 30 minute appointment before attending the group 251-431-5100. COH is a support group for victims of sexual violence to share in their struggles and learn ways to begin to cope with the pain and daily stressors that trigger the hurt. This group is free to attend. Call for times and locations. The Family Center The Family Center’s classes in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH minimum 24-HOUR RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. All classes provide a certificate of completion. The Family Center of Mobile *Nurturing Parenting course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Call 251-479-5700 to register. *The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. See daily listings for class topics. *Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 weeks. *Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (Four things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. *Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks. 251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center classes. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. www.familycentermobile.org or www.Facebook.com/ FatherhoodMobile. La Leche League Mobile Bay Area Breastfeeding support meetings are held the second

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Family Calendar Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. and the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader. 251-689-2085, amandaLLLmobile@yahoo.com, meghanLLL@yahoo. com, or michelleLLLmobile@yahoo.com. Facebook: La Leche League Mobile Bay Area. Mobile Bay Area La Leche League Meetings are the second Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. The number to call for the location is 251-689-2085. We can also be found on Facebook at mobile bay area la leche league. Parent-Child Worship Service Each Wednesday in January and February, Dauphin

Way United Methodist Church will offer a new ParentChild Worship Service from 9:15-10:00 a.m. (room E207) for parents and their children ages birth to four-years-old. Relaxed and filled with music, prayer, a Bible story and coloring, this new program is a wonderful opportunity to worship with your precious little ones. The program will be short, and then kids can play while parents enjoy social time. Contact Dauphin Way UMC at 251471-1511 for more information. Dauphin Way UMC is located at 1507 Dauphin Street, Mobile. Survivors of Suicide Support Group Meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lifelines Counseling Services, 705 Oak Circle Drive, Mobile. SOS is here to provide a supportive and judgement-free environment for you to express yourself and share your story. What can you expect? •A place to find support •A comfortable environment to express yourself •A judgement free environment •Resources for grieving Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, please call the childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000. • Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings for families and caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Meets every second Thursday of every month. E.A. Roberts Alzheimer’s Center, 169 Mobile Infirmary Blvd. Preregistration Not required. Free. Call 251-435-6950 for more information. 10-11 a.m.

Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

September/October2016

• Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Pre-registration is required; call 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. • Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Gastric Bypass Support Meets every 2nd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m.

• Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia. Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care. A maternity tour is included. Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital is pleased to offer a variety of classes on childbirth issues. All classes are located in Conference Room I (located just inside the main lobby doors of the hospital beside the Gift Shop) unless otherwise specified. To register for classes or for more information, you may call 639-2938 to speak with our Childbirth Educator, Kathy Wade RN, or email kwade@providencehospital.org. You may register for Breastfeeding or Childbirth classes online on our website or call 633-1749 for any questions. Support Groups • Providence Hospital Breast “Friends” Meets the second Friday of every month at noon in the Moore Conference Room. The Moore Conference Room is located in the cafeteria. Call Robi Jones for more information, 251-639-2852. • Diabetes Support Group Classes meet in the Diabetes Center, Suite D-436 in the Providence Medical Office Plaza. Call 251-633-1987 for more information. Spring Hill Medical Center: www.springhillmedicalcenter.com • Better Breathers Support Group Meeting For people with pulmonary disorders. Meets on the fourth Monday of each month. 2-3 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. For more information, call 461-2438. • Breastfeeding Class One Wednesday per month. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Family

Center. Benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, going back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation Classes Four consecutive Mondays (6:30-9 p.m.) at The Family Center. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units. Cost: $25 if delivering at Springhill Hospital.  Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation: Accelerated Course  One Saturday per month. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The Family Center. Ideal for those who live out of town or will be delivering soon.  $25. Call 340-7769 early to preregister. • Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings Noon on the First Sunday of the month. Join us for an individualized tour and instruction for siblings ages 9 and younger. The event includes a tour of the maternity areas and tips on helping parents with the new baby. Parents must remain with their children.  By Appointment ONLY. Call 340-7769 to schedule an appointment. • Infant CPR  Learn this potentially life-saving technique while you are pregnant or soon after your baby’s birth. Covers infant CPR and choking. $5 if delivering at SMC. 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Family Center (Bldg. 2, Fourth Floor). Call 3407769 early to pre-register. • NAMI Mobile Support Group A support group for family members of those who suffer from mental illness. Meetings are held the third Monday of every month. For more information: Diane Kent at 5918021. 6-7 p.m., Spring Hill Baptist Church Activity Center. • Resolve Through Sharing For parents who have lost a child before or immediately after birth. Meets the fourth Monday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. Call 460-5323. USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1069. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Advanced payment required to secure your reservation. If you are expecting multiples or having a c-section, please call for additional class information. • Preparing for Childbirth All-day Saturday class for the expectant mother and her support person (coach). Topics include: pregnancy changes, labor, role of the support coach, relaxation and breathing techniques, vaginal and cesarean births, postpartum care, and a tour of the maternity areas. Fee per couple: $30. You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Every other month, 9-2. • Childbirth in a Nutshell This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets first Tuesday every other month from 6:30-9 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Fee per couple: $15. • Breastfeeding This one-night class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Topics include advantages, myths and facts, getting started, correct positioning, latching on, engorgement, returning to work and problem-solving. Class meets second Thursday from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital Fee: $5. Registration Information: Credit card payments are accepted by calling 4151685. Mail payments for classes to: University of South Alabama, Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Education Department, 1700 Center St., Mobile, AL 36604.

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

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I have always enjoyed stepping out of the box a little bit when it comes to fashion. The key is that I am happy with my style, along with being comfortable and confident. It took me taking baby steps to really appreciate and learn to step out with CONFIDENCE when it comes to putting together my look. Now, I wouldn’t say I am extreme with my clothes, however I do enjoy putting a different spin on my style from time to time. And, I think the fact that I started off taking baby steps has allowed people to understand my creativity when it comes to my fashion. Being confident and creative has allowed me to try different types of trends that are tasteful, but understandably noticeable. My clients always tell me the one thing they would like is to step out of their basic look and transition into a new look that works for them...their body type and, of course, their personality. I assure my clients and blog followers that it’s not about changing them, it’s about changing the way they look at fashion, incorporating new changes to fit their personalities, as well as their lifestyle. All with the idea of being comfortable with those new changes. Starting off small will open up many doors when it comes to a new transition. This will also allow you to enjoy the new trend without the stress of trying to overdo it. Because let’s be real...change can be hard. But fashion can be a fun and simple change without the major stress.

1- Start with prints, and start small. You can combine small prints into your accessories with a belt, purse, shoes, jewelry or scarves. When you start small it will allow you to adjust to the possibility of incorporating larger prints into your wardrobe.

* Colors that form right (90 degree) angles with each other (yellow and redorange; blue and violet-red; green and orange, etc.) * Colors directly across from each other (yellow and violet; blue and orange; red and green, etc.) * Colors that form a T (blue, orange, and violet-red; yellow, violet, and red-orange; yellow, blue-green, and red-orange, etc.) * Colors that form an X (blue, orange, violet-red, and yellow, violet, blue-green, and red-orange, etc.)

4- Research. When it comes to mixing your prints and your colors, research fashion magazines, fashion blogs, Pinterest, or ask someone who knows his or her fashion 411’s.

2- Add pops of color. The same goes here. Keep your pops of color simple and work your way up to possibly mixing those colors in with your prints.

3- Enjoy a little color blocking. Find a print on an article of clothing you have hanging in your closet and check out how the designer combined different colors in that print. This will help you get an idea of what colors you can put together when it comes to mixing up your style. Small steps of color blocking can be very beneficial. Start with something solid and incorporate colored accessories here and there. Use the color wheel for an example of mixing up your colors: * Colors directly next to each other (yellow and yellow-orange; yellow and yellow-green; violet and blue-violet, etc.) 55

5- Don’t give yourself just one style--try different types fashion. See how easy it is to transition prints and colors into your simple style. Try these baby steps of change. Then, don’t be afraid to step further out of that fashion box. These are just a few simple changes I know you can mix into your wardrobe.

Laura Handey is an independent clothing consultant in Pike Road, Alabama. You may reach her by email at laura@ centsiblysouthern. com or visit her website and read her blogs at www.centsiblysouthern.com.

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The Wild Life

Storks

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: B Sexual Content: ALanguage: AAlcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated The Wild Life PG for mild action/peril and some rude humor. Life on a tropical island looks like paradise to most, but not to a bored parrot (voice of Kaya Yanar) who is sure bluer adventures lurk in faraway oceans. Then, much to his surprise and delight, all the excitement he could hope for washes ashore in the form of a shipwreck. While the broken oddities and splintered boat are interesting, nothing is more amazing than the human being who emerges from the rubble. As it turns out, the castaway is Robinson Crusoe (voice of Matthias Schweighöfer), a character made famous in Daniel Defoe’s classic novel. This version of the story is told through the eyes of the parrot who is eventually named Tuesday, and the rest of the bird’s animal pals: Rosie the Tapir (voice of Ilka Bessin), Carmello the chameleon (voice of Gerald Schaale), Pango the aardvark (voice of Tobias Lelle), Scrubby the goat (voice of Dieter Hallervorden), Epi the porcupine (voice of Aylin Tezel) and another feathered friend called Kiki (voice of Melanie Hinze). Told with all the depth of a Saturday morning cartoon, and looking like the graphics from a video game, this animation simplifies the plot and presents a bumbling Englishman attempting to survive on his own. Feeling sorry for the inept soul, the indigenous creatures lend a wing and a paw to help him build a nest in a large tree. Of course plenty of slapstick antics ensue. Not all of the danger is harmless however. Some drunken pirates make an appearance and try to force the landlubber to join their ranks. And a couple of mangy cats (voiced by Ghadah Al-Akel and Tommy Morgenstern), that also managed to escape the sinking ship, prove to be an ongoing threat. Angry and hungry the pair resolve to seek vengeance on the man, wreak havoc on the larger critters, and eat the smaller ones. (They do succeed in killing a character, and that death is depicted.) The felines’ have a secret weapon as well – their ability to multiply! Soon their increased population is invading the whole ecosystem. Although The Wild Life is only 90 minutes long, it moves along at a plodding pace. The script has little intelligent to share, including (thankfully) any of the agendas many moviemakers seem determined to impart to an impressionable audience. For young viewers, the very black and white characters, silly action and not too scary bad guys may be mildly entertaining. However, it is probably safe to say, most of the adults who accompany them will be as eager to get off this tedious island as Tuesday and Robinson Crusoe.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: BSexual Content: B+ Language: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Storks PG for mild action and some thematic elements. According to folklore, storks have had the honor and duty of delivering infants since the dawn of time. Although often a challenging task, the feathered flyers maintained a flawless record up until eighteen years ago. That was when Jasper (voice of Danny Trejo), one of their ranks, went crazy and destroyed the destination beacon on the bundle of joy he was entrusted with. The serious mishap had long reaching effects. First, the flock was forced to adopt the undeliverable little girl. Second, the parcel distributor decided to quit the baby business. Since then, storks have handled only non-living cargo -- and the decision has proved profitable. The eighteenth anniversary of the event also marks another milestone. The human orphan they named Tulip (voice of Katie Crown) is now an adult, so the big-billed birds no longer need to take care of her. And that’s a blessing because the redhead’s well-meaning contributions to work efficiency usually have counterproductive results. Hunter (voice of Kelsey Grammer), the boss, should be the one to fire her but he’s too chicken to do the dirty work himself. Instead he recruits company climber Junior (voice of Andy Samberg) to do the job. Unfortunately, the underling hasn’t the heart to do it either. Eventually, Tulip finds herself “promoted” to manager of the obsolete mailroom for the now-defunct baby factory. Yet before Junior can congratulate himself for having found a creative solution to the problem, a rogue letter arrives from a child requesting a sibling. Just as quickly the eager new employee fires up production and fills the order. Before he knows it, Junior and Tulip are engaged in a desperate attempt to get the newborn to its rightful home before Hunter discovers what has happened. The ensuing road trip includes perilous situations, scary wolves (voices of Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele), devious penguins, a stool pigeon bad guy (voice of Stephen Kramer Glickman) and several chase sequences. Along the way, the unlikely pair learn to appreciate and have sympathy for each other, as well as work together for the welfare of the wriggling package. While the depictions of silly antics and slapstick violence are occasionally tedious, the animation still has some redeeming qualities. Some of these are found in the secondary storyline about the lonely boy (voice of Anton Starkman) who thinks a younger brother might be a consolation for his work-aholic parents (voices of Ty Burrell and Jennifer Aniston). When he tells them he’s asked the storks to deliver a playmate, Mom and Dad giggle at first. Yet over time his persistence with the idea helps the couple think about some important things they might be neglecting. My favorite part of the movie is something the script calls “baby cuteness.” As contagious as the flu, those who get near infants need to protect themselves by never looking them in the eye and never giving them a name. By the end of the film, just about everyone has been infected by this strange sickness. And it is delightful to see a story celebrate that charm.

What Parents need to know about The Wild Life...

Violence: Portrayals of slapstick and non-graphic violence are frequent. These feature weapons use, hitting, falling, crushing, fire and explosions, as well as hanging from cliffs and ropes. Characters face perilous situations, including shipwreck and pirate attacks. A character is killed, and the deaths of several others are implied. A character suffering from seasickness vomits. Scary looking cats hunt and try to harm other characters: they are also abusive to each other. Skeletons of dead animals are shown. The punishments of walking the plank and the gallows are mentioned. Sexual Content: Mild sexual innuendo occurs. A pregnant cat shows off her large belly and nipples. Language: A couple of mild profanities are used. Alcohol / Drug Use: Pirates frequently drink alcohol, and some of these characters are depicted as intoxicated. Mobile Bay Parents I October 2016

What Parents need to know about Storks...

Violence: Frequent portrayals of slapstick violence and mild peril. Characters fall, crash and fly into glass windowpanes -- some non-detailed injuries result. Small birds are unwillingly used as ping pong and golf balls. Characters are chased, threatened, stabbed with forks, tied up with ropes, hung upside down and hit with sticks. Some explosions and fires cause property damage. Sexual Content: Parents giggle when a child asks where babies come from. Babies’ bare bottoms are occasionally seen. Some potty humor is included. Language: Name-calling occurs. 56

www.mobilebayparents.com

ASMS

The Alabama School of Mathematics and Science Come find out if ASMS is right for you by attending a statewide info meeting (see dates below) and visiting our campus for Preview Day on November 12 or December 3. Register for the meeting you plan to attend as well as for Preview Day at www.asms.net. ASMS is our state’s only fully public, residential high school for sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in math, science, and the humanities. Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are

ANNISTON

Wednesday, Oct. 12, 6:00 PM Gadsden State Ayers Campus Learning Resource Center Auditorium 1801 Coleman Rd

AUBURN

Thursday, Oct. 13, 5:30 PM (Central) Auburn University Ross Hall Auditorium, RM 136

BIRMINGHAM

Thursday, Oct. 20, 6:00 PM University of Alabama at Birmingham Heritage Hall, RM 104 1401 University Blvd

ENTERPRISE

Thursday, Oct. 27, 6:00 PM Dauphin Jr. High School Library 425 Dauphin Street

HUNTSVILLE

Wednesday, Oct. 19, 6:00 PM University of Alabama in Huntsville Louis Salmon Library, RM 111 301 Sparkman Drive NW

tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Start your application today at www.asms.net. Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. All ASMS students go to college and most receive merit-based scholarships. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.3250.

LIVINGSTON

MONTGOMERY

Thursday, Oct. 13, 6:00 PM University of West Alabama Student Union Small Conf. Room Student Union Drive

Thursday, Oct. 27, 6:00 PM Montgomery Main Library 245 High Street

MOBILE (OPTION 1)

Wednesday, Oct. 26, 6:00 PM Wallace Community College Hank Sanders Tech. Bldg., Conf. Room 3000 Earl Goodwin Pkwy

Thursday, Oct. 6, 6:00 PM ASMS Campus Media Center 1255 Dauphin Street

MOBILE (OPTION 2)

Thursday, Oct. 27, 6:00 PM ASMS Campus Media Center 1255 Dauphin Street

MONROEVILLE

Thursday, Oct. 13, 6:00 PM Alabama Southern Community College Library, RM 101 2800 South Alabama Avex

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science 1255 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36604 251.441.2100 - www.asms.net admissions@asms.net

SELMA

THOMASVILLE

Thursday, Oct. 20, 6:00 PM Alabama Southern Community College Library Building 3000, RM 107 30755 Hwy 43 South

TROY

Thursday, Oct. 20, 6:00 PM Troy University Trojan Center Room 212 231 Adams Center

TUSCALOOSA

Tuesday, Oct. 18, 6:00 PM University of Alabama South Engineering Research Center RM 1059