Mobile Bay Parents August 2020 by KeepSharing

ADMISSIONS

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“Alabama’s High School ”

SEPTEMBER 1

Alabama 9th & 10th Graders Can Apply Free at www.asms.net

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TUITION, ROOM, AND BOARD

ASMS is a public residential high school for academically talented sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in mathematics, science, computer science, and humanities.

• Early College Experience • Dedicated Instructors • Diverse Community • Leadership Opportunities • Experiential Learning

Find out how the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science can lead you on a path to success. Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Start your online application September 1, 2020 at www.asms.net. ASMS students have access to hands-on, experiential learning focused on research and collaboration. Students take a variety of college-level courses in Math, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, History, English, Communication, Physical Education, and Fine Arts. 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. Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.2100.

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August2020 22

Volume 10 Number 5

Columns 2 Publisher’s Note 4 Therapeutic Parenting

No Means No

Common Sense Media Answering the question: Should you read your kid’s texts?

Advice for training your child to accept your ‘no’ the first time.

Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

8 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

24 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

36 Dave Says

Using a School Planner

Keep your kids (and yourself) calm and balanced by using a planner.

After School Activities

Dave Ramsey

Sign your kids up for afternoon sports, learning and enrichment.

Departments On The Cover Chase (11) and Lucas (4) Mose are the sons of Chase and Belinda

6 Bits and Pieces 9 School Bits

Mose. Lucas loves animals and enjoys collecting superheroes and playing outdoors. Chase enjoys deer hunting and playing basketball and football.

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FromthePublisher

Mobile Bay Mobile Bay’s Foremost Parenting Source

Traditionally, in mid-July of each year, the girls and I schedule a “Back to School” shopping trip. We make a whole day of it. We start the night before making lists of much needed school supplies, and the next morning we head out to our first destination. Typically, that means perusing the school supply aisles trying to find those specific plastic three-prong folders with pockets in just the right colors, along with many more items. We take a break and eat out for lunch, then keep shopping for school clothes, shoes, and backpacks. This year was a little different. First off, I had to assess how comfortable I was getting out and shopping. I did make up my mind that if it was too crowded, we would just turn around and go back home and wait for another time. Secondly, my girls are older now, so trying to find all of those hard to find folders is no longer an issue (yahoo!!!), but what school supplies will be needed this year? We decided to head out with our masks and sanitizers and keep the tradition... focusing on the basics of jeans, tennis shoes, etc. We did not go many places, but I was surprised how few people were in the places we visited. Maybe it was just the timing or maybe others were like us, getting in and out as quickly as possible. Either way, this year’s back-to-school shopping trip was certainly not the casual “Girls Day Out” we normally experience, but we made the most of it and still enjoyed our time together. Whether you are attending school in person, distance learning, or homeschooling, a planner is a must! This is the one school supply that all of my girls get excited about. Because it is not just the planner, it is the color-coding highlighters, sticky tabs and other accessories they use to make these planners works of organizational art that would make even Marie Kondo proud. They get so excited to put in their activities and assignments, making it a colorful display of daily to-dos. If your children are at the age when they can start using a planner, I highly recommend you try it out. There are many benefits as outlined in Sandi Schwartz feature, How A School Planner Can Help Your Child Stay Calm And Balanced. There are also plenty of videos and Pinterest examples kids can watch to help them come up with a plan they can get excited about and keep up with. My girls prefer a hardcopy planner, but there are several apps that can be used. You just don’t get all the fun accessories with an app. After school activities are usually one of the first things that get added to the planner. Making sure there is no overlap between clubs, sports, etc. is a must. While the pandemic has certainly changed a lot, there are still opportunities for your children to participate in if you desire. You will find a list on page 29 in our After School Activities Guide. Most businesses we spoke with have new safety protocols in place, so make sure to ask about their new policies and make your decision based on your comfort level. Yes, heading back to school is definitely different this year, but keep your head up and model the behaviors you hope to see in your kids. Stay safe and healthy!

Lynn

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@mobilebayparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@mobilebayparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Lucy Green Contributing Writers Jennifer Adair, M.D. Sarah Lyons Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dave Ramsey Sandi Schwartz

Cover Photography Hannah Stinson Photography www.HannahStinsonPhotography.com

President Jason Watson Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton ads@mobilebayparents.com (251) 304-1200 Account Manager Eleanor Williams Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us at www.mobilebayparents.com

lynn@mobilebayparents.com

Mobile Bay Parents I August 2020

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

Mobile Bay Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 81105, Mobile, Alabama, 36689. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 304-1200. Mobile Bay Parents is copyrighted 2020 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Mobile Bay Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

The Impact of Your Words and Your Walk You know that one day when you were driving to work, steaming cup of hot coffee in hand, conversation with a client on your Bluetooth in your ear, and your brain only slightly registered the stop sign in front of you? Yeah. That was me yesterday. That stop sign is only about two miles from my house. I see it and obey it pretty well every day as I come and go…except yesterday. Mid sip of coffee and mid conversation with that client, I looked both ways and proceeded out into the intersection. No sooner had I completed that turn did I see those familiar flashing lights and sirens behind me. You see, that stop sign – in my distracted brain – simply meant be safe, look for cars, but don’t necessarily come to a complete stop. Whoops. (Fun fact: stop signs mean stop.) As our friendly neighborhood trooper started walking toward my car, I rolled down my window, smiled and said, “I completely did not stop at that stop sign!” He laughed, took my license and registration and promptly came back with a ticket. I shook his hand, and drove off calculating how much this was going to cost me.

I tell you that story to say this: if we want our kids to take responsibility for their actions, it starts with us. How often do they bear witness to us blaming a co-worker for an error on a team project? How often do they silently stand by while we attempt to argue our way out of a ticket? How many times do they see us deflect or defer blame for an uncompleted task in our homes? If we are honest – often. Ouch. Guilty, party of one over here. It is exceedingly important to remember that we cannot simply attempt to imprint important concepts upon their little hearts with proclamations of, “Why don’t you just take responsibility for your actions?!” when they simply don’t see it being lived out from the one they look to most. It takes an immense amount of transparency and vulnerability to admit you made a mistake, to admit you messed something up and certainly to humbly ask for forgiveness when you hurt someone’s feelings. These concepts are not innately present in our children. Instead, their hearts are pre-wired for defensiveness, deflection of blame and they are masters of eluding responsibility.

In order to override that, these concepts have to be taught and nurtured, and above all else, modeled by those they are closest to. There are two main themes that are ever present in my home bursting with boys: 1) See a need, meet a need. And 2) Take responsibility for your actions. Am I careful to speak these truths into them... yes? But it doesn’t stop there. It’s a two-sided coin of both verbalizing what it is I need from them, but also demonstrating how these conceptual principles are lived out. With that being said I leave you with two reminders. Always come to a complete stop at stop signs, and always realize and remember just how impactful your words and your walk are in the lives of your children. Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to mitigate negative behaviors. She is the Director of Central Alabama for Lifeline Children’s Services and is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted and she is a foster parent.

PASSAGE USA

A post-secondary educational experience for students with intellectual disabilities aged 1825 focused on attaining individualized goals in employment and independent living.

CONTACT: Alexandra Chanto-Wetter (251)460-7558 | chantowetter@southalabama.edu

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13th Annual GO Run Goes Virtual

Runners and walkers can choose how to participate in the 13th annual GO Run, set for Sept. 17-20, to support academic cancer research. Because the event is virtual, participants can design their race to be a 1-mile fun run, a 5K, 10K or a half-marathon. They can also choose a treadmill, indoor track or outdoor route as the location. The entry fee for the GO Run ranges from $15 for the 1-mile fun run to $75 for the “weekend warrior,” which includes a 5K, 10K and half-marathon spread over four days. Registration is online through runsignup.com. In addition, participants may sign up for a GO Run Beginner 5K Coaching Program, developed by Brooks Running, at no cost. Prizes will be awarded to top finishers, the largest team, highest fundraising team, best social networking team and team with most creative costume. Participants may also honor a loved one by purchasing a GO Run ribbon-shaped magnet for $10. For more information visit the GO Run webpage.

Mr. Bellingrath’s Birthday Celebration

Walter Bellingrath was born in Atlanta on August 6, 1869, and became Mobile’s first Coca-Cola bottler. In the 1920s, he and his wife, Bessie, created Bellingrath Gardens from a former fishing camp along the Fowl River, which Walter Bellingrath had purchased 1919 for use as a weekend retreat. The Bellingraths opened the Gardens to the public for the first time on April 7, 1932. By tradition, Bellingrath Gardens and Home celebrates Mr. Bellingrath’s birthday on August 6 by offering free admission to residents of Mobile and Baldwin Counties. The birthday tradition dates back to 1949, when Mr. Bellingrath invited local residents to come and enjoy the Gardens at no charge as part of his 80th birthday celebration. Mr. Bellingrath died on August 8, 1955, two days after his 86th birthday. On August 6, admission to the Gardens is complimentary to all Mobile and Baldwin County residents. Guests are encouraged to purchase a $9 ticket to tour the Bellingrath Museum Home. During the month of August, Bellingrath Gardens and Home is also offering an Admissions Discount, a savings on combination Gardens and Home tickets.

Aubreigh’s Army Lemon Face Gala

Aubreigh’s Army Foundation 328, Inc, is committed to provide funding to help find a cure for Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), a rare and fatal pediatric brain tumor, and to help newly DIPG diagnosed families in need. Lemon Face Gala will be held August 14, 2020, 6:00-11:00 PM at The Steeple, St. Francis Street, in Mobile. Tickets can be purchased on our website at www.aubreighsarmyfoundation328.com. We are also very excited to announce that the State of Alabama has approved the production of an Aubreigh’s Army license tag. All proceeds will go towards DIPG research and helping other families financially that have been diagnosed with DIPG in the State of Alabama. Before we see these beautiful tags on vehicles all over the State of Alabama, we have to pre-sell 1000 tags. The cost is $50.00. The tags will be printed once we reach the 1000 minimum tags pre-sold. Please help us reach our goal of 1000 pre-sold tags. You will be helping DIPG Research and allowing Aubreigh’s legacy to touch many more lives. Visit our website and click the link to preorder!

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama Announces Every Girl in a Park Program

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (GSSA) has partnered with the Alabama State Parks and Alabama Historical Commission for Every Girl In a Park, going on now through October 31, 2020. From the backyard to the backcountry, Girl Scouts has a long and storied history of getting every girl outdoors. In fact, many Girl Scouts say “camping trips” are one of the best things about their Girl Scout experience. Connecting with the great outdoors in a girl-led setting is a big benefit of belonging to Girl Scouts. All 21 Alabama State Parks and 14 Alabama Historic Sites are offering free admission for Girl Scouts and one accompanying adult, as long as they are wearing the Every Girl In a Park t-shirt. Alabama State Parks is also offering a 10% off discount for campground rental or room rate at one of the lodges (Discount does NOT apply to Gulf State Park). Discounts will be available now until October 31 (excludes Labor Day). For more information, you can visit their website at www.girlscoutssa.org/everygirlinapark. Mobile Bay Parents I August 2020

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Local Parish Celebrates Graduates

Prince of Peace Parish is blessed to have 5 graduates in this pandemic Class of 2020. At the May 24 Mass, Ms. Carolyn Francis, CCD Director, with Pastor, Fr. Christopher Matumbai Sialo, F.M.H. and Mrs. Vernice Seals, KPC Jr. Daughters, who started a Prince of Peace Graduates Fund congratulated HBCU Dillard University graduate Gabriel (Gabby) Orange and High School graduates, Thomas Rankin, II (Murphy to HBCU Jackson State University); Kelli Turner (Ben C Rain); and McGill-Toolen Catholic (McT) graduates, Al’Tasia Jackson (to Jacksonville State University); and Mary Olivette Bookman (to Fordham, The Jesuit University of NY – Lincoln Center Campus). Ms. Francis challenged the graduates to “... go out and make a difference... keep your focus on God... come back and keep our Church going...Remember—let God be your Spearhead.”

VIRTUAL Rubber Ducky Regatta!

Quack! Quack! The ducks are back! Join us for our first-ever VIRTUAL Rubber Ducky Regatta, making a splash on August 15, 2020, by dropping thousands of rubber ducks into the Mobile River at Cooper Riverside Park. The "adopted" ducks will race to the finish line where the lucky ducky's adopter can win a $1,000 Rouses gift card grand prize! The event kicks off on Saturday, August 15 on the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile Facebook page. All proceeds will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile, a home away from home for families with seriously ill and injured children being treated at area hospitals. Want to add a little friendly competition? After you have adopted your ducks, we want you to challenge your friends and family to adopt theirs! Join in on the social media challenge fun! Be sure to tag the friends you are challenging and use our hashtag: #rubberduckyregatta2020 May the best lucky ducky win! Rubberduckyregatta.com

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Routines & Wellness Visits During the Chaos The world seems much different now than it did a few months ago. As a parent, it can be distressing. As with any novel virus, the amount of information available– and the medical guidelines that result from that information– can evolve rapidly. The news media has rushed to report each new study or statistic, often without context, and the result can be more questions and confusion. I’d like to encourage each of you to do a few things: • Listen to physicians, not social media. • Make an effort to wear a mask in public. • If you are sick or have tested positive for COVID-19, please stay home. • As best you can, try to create a sense of normalcy for your children, your family– and yourself. Routines are important. Activities such as dental appointments, wellness visits, exercise, and staying in touch with family members can be essential to your physical and mental health. Simple habits like going outside can also have a big impact on our

health– the fresh air can help reduce anxiety and stress. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently reported that wellness visits have been down at least 25% since the pandemic began. They also noted a sharp rise in depression and anxiety. I want to encourage you to make a wellness visit appointment for your child if you have not been to the pediatrician recently. We’re here to answer questions about your children’s health, adjusting to new routines, or even how best to socially distance for your family. Wellness visits are designed to address these questions and more. Too often, we think if we are seeing a physician regularly for sick visits, there is no need to make that extra annual visit for a check-up. But this is how small things can be missed! During a sick visit, the focus is to diagnose the problem and come up with a treatment plan that works for your child. For wellness exams, the mindset of your pedia-

trician is different, and we’re trying to get a snapshot of your child’s health as a whole. Your pediatrician will consider your child’s growth and development in conjunction with overall health over the previous year, and take into account any family medical history or concerns. The AAP generally recommends annual check-ups between the ages of 2 and 18, and more frequent check-ups for those under 2 years old. So keep your children up to date and continue to reach out for guidance as needed during these stressful times. We’ll continue to be here for you and your families when you need us!!

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

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Autauga County Schools

St. Dominic Angels Serve Lunch to SOMI Club Members

The call to spread His light is there even during a pandemic. The St. Dominic Angels on a Mission leaders served a Foosackly’s lunch and homemade desserts to the SOMI Club (Survivors Of Mental Illness) members. Pictured, St. Dominic Catholic School teachers, Mrs. Hess, Mrs. Ferlise, Mrs. Spafford, Mrs. Ginn, Mrs. Moore, and Mrs. Bishop.

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Davidson Biology Students Visit Environmental Center

Before school dismissed in March, Dr. Tucker’s biology and biotechnology students at Davidson HS were able to get some hands-on learning at the Environmental Studies Center. We’re glad the students had this unique learning opportunity!

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

E.R. Dickson and Breitling Win Award for Excellent Student Councils

E.R. Dickson and Breitling Elementary Schools were the only schools in Alabama to be named as winners of the 2020 American Student Council Association School of Excellence Award. The award, presented by the National Association of Elementary School Principals, recognizes outstanding achievement by student councils in community service, student leadership, citizenship and school spirit. Winners were selected based on projects that their student council completed during the 2019-2020 school year, as well as their student council constitution and election procedures. Councils were also required to submit letters of recommendation from their principal and student council president.

St. Mary Catholic Celebrates Retirement of Two Beloved Faculty Members

St. Mary Catholic School held a retirement party for faculty members Jennifer Heisler and Sue Lyon, both long time members of the St. Mary Catholic School Family. Jennifer taught English at St. Mary beginning in 1992 inspiring students to bring out their creativity through writing. She also served as St. Mary's Assistant Principal, providing fair and just service to the students. Sue Lyon has been with St. Mary since 1991 as the Librarian, inspiring students of all ages to explore the wonders of reading. Sue was instrumental in the annual Reading is Fundamental Program and RIF Reading Parade at St. Mary as well as the founder of the St. Mary Pro-Life Club. Both teachers will be greatly missed by all! Pictured left to right: St. Mary Pastor, Rev. Msgr. G. Warren Wall; St. Mary Principal, Debbie Ollis; with retirees Assistant Principal, Jennifer Heisle; and St. Mary Librarian, Sue Lyon. 9

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Autauga County Schools

Chamber’s Military Appreciation Event Recognizes Military Leaders

Two Mobile County Teachers Receive Prestigious Honors

Congratulations to Murphy High history teacher Sarah Woltring who was named as one of four national finalists for the National History Day’s Patricia Behring Teacher of the Year award. Woltring was selected this past spring as Alabama's Teacher of the year for National History Day, which was held virtually this year from College Park, Maryland. Sande McBryde of E.R. Dickson Elementary was named the Metro Mobile Literacy Council’s 2020 Teacher of the Year.

The Mobile Area Chamber and its Military Affairs Committee presented five awards during the broadcast of its 33rd annual Military Appreciation event, and recognized 14 Junior ROTC cadets from area high schools. Davidson’s Cadet Lieutenant Commander Levi Meade was among those honored. Due to COVID-19, the cadets were honored during a virtual ceremony.

Eichold-Mertz National Elementary Honor Society Inductees

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Eichold-Mertz National Elementary Honor Society Inductees for 20192020 are: Hudson Abernethy, Jeremiah Bell, Victoria Davidson, Noah Jinright, Henry Sprague, Charlotte Milling, Amelia Wilson, Paisley Cox, Alex Choi, Alyssa Do, Andres GonzalezEspana, Allie Armbrecht, and Donnie Barrett.

USA Health Offers Innovative Student Volunteering Opportunities Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Challenged by visitor restrictions designed to support safety at USA Health facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic, USA Health’s volunteer services had to rethink how to support volunteer opportunities this summer for 65 teenage volunteers from Mobile and Baldwin Counties’ high schools. The solution was to offer an innovative hybrid volunteer program. Volunteer services already had a number of student volunteers signed up for the summer session when the pandemic hit. The hybrid volunteering concept was developed to allow students to give back to the community and earn service hours in a safe environment. Interested volunteers can submit applications for the fall session at usahealthsystem.com. Fall volunteer programs for adults and college students are on pause until further notice but are being evaluated.

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

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Faith Academy Outstanding Students of 2019-2020

There were no traditional awards ceremonies this year at Faith Academy, but they were still able to recognize one outstanding student in each grade level. Congratulations to Faith Academy’s 7th-11th grade outstanding students for the 2019-2020 school year! 7th grade Outstanding student Hunter McIlwain; 8th grade Outstanding student Grace Piggott; 9th grade Outstanding student Emma McSpadden; 10th grade Outstanding student Klare Bergman; 11th grade Outstanding student Victoria Foster. Mobile Bay Parents I August 2020

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MCPSS Makes Donation for Special Needs Children Mobile County Public Schools was proud to join community leaders and representatives of the Schmidt family in recently announcing plans to build The Miracle League of West Mobile: Schmidt Family Park, a baseball field and playground for special needs children. The park will be constructed on Johnson Road, about two miles southwest of the intersection of Airport Boulevard and Snow Road. Several community organizations have already donated land and provided funds to pave the road and other services, including: the Alabama Pecan Development Company, Inc., SchmidtBarton Family Fund, South Alabama Utilities, MCPSS and the Mobile County Commission. Donations are now being accepted at mcpss. com/miracleleague to cover the remaining costs associated with the park. Pictured are Donnie Brown, Vice President of the Alabama Pecan Development Company, Inc., and his wife Tammy, a member of the Schmidt family.

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Two St. Luke's Students Named to All-Star Girls' Tennis Rosters

Two St. Luke's students were named to the prestigious South All-Star Girls' Tennis Rosters. This team is comprised of 2021 rising seniors who were chosen by a special coaches’ committee from nominations received from AHSAA member school tennis coaches. The South girls’ squad features St. Luke’s Episcopal netters Grace Garrett and Whitney Novak. Garrett won the 2019 state No. 1 doubles title in Class 1A/3A while Novak won at No. 3 singles and doubles.

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

Welcome to the 2020 - 2021 school year! Established in 1958, Corpus Christi Catholic School provides students in K2 through eighth grade an outstanding education. The mission of Corpus Christi Catholic School is to nurture every child by providing opportunities to grow in faith, achieve academic success, and serve others as disciples of Jesus. 6300 McKenna Drive • Mobile, Alabama 36608 • school.corpuschristiparish.com

Questions? Please contact us: 251.342.5474 • school@CCSCatholic.com 11

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Autauga County Schools

UMS-Wright Hires New Director of College Counseling

UMS-Wright is pleased to announce the hiring of our new Director of College Counseling, Dr. Kristin Odom. Dr. Odom has nine years of experience in college admissions and recruitment. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Communication, a Master's Degree in Instructional Design & Development, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership. Dr. Odom possesses the knowledge, skill, and drive to further the mission of our school by helping each student reach this or her highest potential. We are excited by the skills she will bring to the College Counseling Office and look forward to her future successes in this capacity.

McGill-Toolen Student Selected as Gates Scholar

Lighthouse Baptist Preps for the New School Year

LBA has been working on several upgrades as they prepare for school to start in August! Several elementary classes have been updated with fresh paint and new carpet, and the band closets in the back of the school chapel have been completed.

Mary Olivette, graduate of McGill-Toolen Catholic High School, has been selected as a Class of 2020 Gates Scholar (4-year Scholarship to any U.S.College or University). She is one of 300 recipients out of over 36,500 applications nationwide. The Gates Scholarship Team announced, “... As one of 300 Scholars chosen from a pool of over 36,500 applicants from across the nation, you now belong to an elite group of young leaders—all of whom represent the very pinnacle of academic achievement, service, and commitment. We hope this news brings you and your family special joy and hope for a brighter future, during this time of crisis and unprecedented uncertainty...” Over $1 Million in scholarship offers were received by Mary Olivette from 7 universities across the U.S. including a full scholarship to NY Columbia University. She chose Fordham’s New York City Campus to Major in Music and Minor in Theatre in order to “study the arts in a diverse but familiar, welcoming environment.”

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Faith Academy Student Wins Coastal Female Athlete of the Year Award

Faith Academy’s very own Aaliyah Austin is the Coastal Female Athlete of the Year! The 6-foot-2 Austin was a dual sport star for Faith Academy, leading the Rams’ volleyball team to the Class 5A final last fall and the girls’ basketball team to a spot in the Southwest Regionals in Montgomery. Austin’s work ethic and success made her an overwhelming choice to win the 2019-2020 Edward Jones/AL.com Coastal Female Athlete of the Year Award. Way to go Aaliyah!

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St. Ignatius 2nd Graders Make First Holy Communion

Congratulations to the St. Ignatius 2nd graders who made their First Holy Communion on June 7. This year has certainly been interesting with COVID regulations. These 2nd graders were supposed to make their Holy Communion in May but were delayed because Masses were not open to the public yet. This year was particularly special because it will likely be the last First Communion in our current church. If the schedule holds, next year it will be held in our newly constructed church. Pictured here are Elizabeth Rigrish, Caroline Weinacker and Crosby Hayes.

St. Mary Catholic Completion Ceremony at The Lip!

A new way of doing things this year due to COVID 19 Restrictions, but nonetheless, St. Mary Catholic held a great send off for an awesome class of 2020! With decorated cars, masks and more, each student drove through with their family to receive their completion certificate and well wishes from St. Mary faculty and staff members. 13

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Autauga County Schools

Little Flower Catholic Church Holds VBS

St. Dominic Students Receive Scholarships to McGill-Toolen

Little Flower Catholic Church sponsored a few days of summer fun with Vacation Bible School celebrating the theme of Rocky Railway Express. Mrs. Tommie Angel put her artistic talents to work with days of planning and impressive stage decorations. With 12 student aides and 4 teachers, the attention given to the attendees was nearly one-to-one. Although the general atmosphere was a bit different than years past because of the pandemic, the focus remained on spiritual growth with Scripture themes woven throughout and of course VBS fun. Helpers included, left to right, Jaedyn Lang, Andre lang, and Noah Wacker.

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Congratulations to all of the St. Dominic Catholic School Eighth Grade students who received scholarships to McGill Toolen. The class of 2020 received $73,500 in scholarships! Pictured are Russell Ginn who received the Henry E. Rimer Scholarship, Christopher Hunt, who received the Herbert M. Zoghby, Sr. Scholarship, Anderson Tufford, Kasey Eccles, Ella Wilson, and Maggie Kohnen, who all received St. Augustine Scholarships. Way to go Eagles!

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St. Luke’s Biomed Student Participates in Congress of Future Medical Leaders St. Luke's Biomed Health Sciences student and aspiring future cardiologist, Kasey Hernandez-Sexton, participated in the Congress of Future Medical Leaders recently. The Congress of Future Medical Leaders was created by the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists to bring together the country’s finest, highest achieving high school students who aspire to careers in medicine and singling them out for special recognition and ongoing mentorship. The Congress brings these young students together with winners of the Nobel Prize, top medical school deans, Ivy League academic leaders, leaders of medicine, award winning young inventors and scientists, fascinating patients of cutting-edge medicine and medical futurists.

St. Dominic Catholic School Summer Camp St. Dominic Catholic School Summer Campers are loving the theme weeks planned for them. Baeddon Clark did a fantastic job on his handprint crab during Under the Sea week.

St. Luke Announces New Girls’ Soccer Coach

We are excited to announce the new Varsity Girls’ Soccer Coach, Michael Broussard. Coach Broussard has been part of the girls’ soccer program for the last year and a half. Michael was a member of the Mandeville Lakers Club Team for seven years and graduated from Northlake Christian in 2011. Michael also played on the 2011 Louisiana State Champion team and Centenary College. Michael has also been coaching club soccer for Mobile United for the last 3 years. Welcome, Michael!

COVENANT CHRISTIAN Supporting the Family with Christian Education

CCS is excited to welcome students to campus August 12! Call today for a personal tour and for more information on how we plan to be on campus for the 2020-21 school year

Now Registering Schedule your tour today! 7150 Hitt Road, Mobile, AL

K3 to 8th Grade www.covenantschool.com 15

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Autauga County Schools

Murphy HS Seniors Receive Scholarships

Three Murphy High Class of 2020 graduates were recently honored with scholarships to help them begin their college studies. Dzenisa Alidemovic was awarded a Joseph Treadwell Foundation Scholarship. Treadwell Foundation Scholarships, which cover the full cost of tuition, books and fees, are offered to graduating seniors in Mobile County who plan to attend a college or university in Mobile County. Dzenisa will attend the University of South Alabama in the fall, majoring in Nursing. Timothy Lett is the first recipient of the Serena Willcox scholarship. A group of former students established a $5000 scholarship in honor of Willcox, a former assistant principal at Murphy. Lett will attend the University of Alabama this fall and major in political science. Cadet 1SG Marcus Brown has been awarded a full three-year ROTC scholarship and the Heritage Gold Scholarship at Alabama A&M University starting this fall. Upon successful graduation and completion of all ROTC requirements, he will earn a commission into the U.S. Army as a 2LT.

Old Shell Road Learning Leading Student Award Winner

In May, Christi Norris, Principal of Old Shell Road, surprised Jack Hoyle and his family by coming to his house to inform him that he was selected as Old Shell Road Magnet School's 2020 Learning Leading Student Award winner. He was presented with a medal and a sign for his yard. Jack received this award primarily for his charity work, community involvement, scholarship, excellence in the arts program, and overall friendly disposition. We are extremely proud of Jack and look forward to seeing his next endeavors! Jack Hoyle pictured with Christi Norris, Principal of Old Shell Road Magnet School

1.800.239.6636 | girlscoutssa.org

Mobile Bay Parents I August 2020

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UMS-Wright is Pleased to Announce the Hiring and Re-positioning of Three Divisional Principals

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As we look forward to the 2020-21 school year, UMS-Wright is pleased to announce the hiring and re-positioning of our three divisional principals. Our new Lower School Principal, Marcy Miller, joins us as a veteran educator with 24 years of experience. She holds a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education, as well as a Master's Degree in K-12 Administration. Mrs. Miller has served as an elementary classroom teacher, an instructional specialist, a reading coach, and most recently as a building administrator at both the elementary and middle school levels. Dr. Patricia Boehm, our current Lower School Principal, will transition to serve as the leader of our Curriculum and Instruction Department. Jeb Blackerby ’99 will be the new Middle School Principal. Mr. Blackerby holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Math from the University of Mobile and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of South Alabama. Mr. Blackerby has 21 years of experience in education where he has served as a classroom teacher and basketball coach. He joined our staff last year and taught Math for the 2019-2020 school year. Wes Lathan previously served as the Middle School Principal and Dean of Students at UMSWright for the past 8 years and for the 2020-2021 school year will serve as the Upper School Principal. Mr. Lathan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education and a Master’s Degree Educational Leadership. He has 22 years of educational instruction and administration. All three of these individuals possess the drive and ability to lead in a manner that aligns with our school’s mission of helping our students reach their highest potential in mind, body, spirit, and character!

St. Dominic Student Receives Scholarship for Outstanding Academic and Behavioral Achievement

Congratulations to St. Dominic Catholic School student, Megan Trinh, who was awarded the Rev. Msgr. William Skoneki Scholarship for Outstanding Academic and Behavioral Achievement. Megan had the highest GPA of the Eighth Grade class. Great job Megan!

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Autauga County Schools

Davidson Students Compete in Regional Science Fair

The annual Regional Science Fair was held in March 2020 at the University of South Alabama and several Davidson students were invited to compete with their projects. Rachel Majumder placed fourth in Best in Fair with her project, “Which Humectant Retains the Most Moisture?” Dev Mehta won the Moore Family Statistical Excellence Award for “The Effect of Different Dilutions of Pomegranate, Lemon, Ginger, Tumeric Extracts on the Growth of E. coli. Bacteria.” Also receiving awards were Samantha Oyler, Savannah Dinkel, Julianne Berte, Liberty Wigen, Maria Moxey, Casey Dinkel, Haydan Emmertson, Marie-Claire Don Jayawardena, and Callie Thompson.

Mobile Bay Parents I August 2020

MCPSS ROTC Cadets Recognized by Chamber of Commerce

Twelve JROTC cadets from Mobile County Public Schools were recognized during the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce's Military Appreciation event recently. They are: Cadet Major Jacob Hollifield, Baker; Cadet First Sergeant Jacqurius McDowell, B.C. Rain; Cadet Staff Sergeant Ajia Janae Blackmon, Blount; Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Garden, Alma Bryant; Cadet Captain Brianna N. Dykes, Citronelle; Cadet Lieutenant Commander Levi Meade, Davidson; Cadet Second Lieutenant Cameron Harness, LeFlore; Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Ava C. Ndongo, Mary G. Montgomery; Cadet Staff Sergeant Shaunte Horace, Murphy; Cadet Command Sergeant Major Amber Havard, Theodore; Cadet Major Mikiah Lilly, Vigor; Cadet Major Jamiah Nicole Hendricks, Williamson.

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Local Teachers Receive Award for Innovative Approaches to Teaching Science

Jamie Bosarge of Alma Bryant High School and Ramona Savell of Clark-Shaw School of Math, Science & Technology were recently named as local winners of the Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge. The awards are presented to teachers who demonstrate innovative approaches to teaching science. Bosarge and Savell were awarded science lab makeover support packages worth $15,000 and $10,000, respectively, which will allow them to purchase new lab equipment, kits and supplies. They'll also receive a one-year membership in the National Science Teaching Association and will be registered to attend the NSTA's STEM Conference, which will be held virtually this year. "STEM careers are on the rise and students need to be exposed to opportunities to encourage their own investigations and problem solving skills in safe, wellequipped environments," Bosarge said. "I plan to use the funds to provide a hands-on STEM education for my students at Alma Bryant High School."

St. Mary Catholic Rev. Msgr. Peter J. Cunningham Award Winners

St. Mary Catholic congratulates this year's recipients of The Rev. Msgr. Peter J. Cunningham Awards. Elsa Grow and Ryan Shine were the girl and boy recipients of this prestigious award presented by The St. Mary Knights of Columbus for well roundedness in leadership, education, and Christian ideals. Pictured: St. Mary Knight, Judge Edmond Naman with St Mary Catholic School Principal Debbie Ollis and recipients Ryan Shine and Elsa Grow and St. Mary Pastor, Rev. Msgr. Peter J. Cunningham in the background.

A Unique Farewell to St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Seniors

St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hosted a "Drive By Salute to Seniors" so that friends and family could bid farewell to the Class of 2020. Prior to the graduation ceremony, the seniors stood on the front steps of the school as students in K2-11th grade paraded by to show their school spirit.

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Autauga County Schools

Corpus Christi Catholic School 8th Grade Award Recipients Announced

Corpus Christi Catholic School's 8th-grade graduation Mass was held on June 22. In addition to recognizing the graduates, award recipients were announced. The school faculty and staff were on hand to wish the students continued success as they leave Corpus and begin their new endeavors in high school. President's Award for Educational Excellence recipients: Maggie Heller, Maurgen Byrne, Kaitlyn Goff, Gaby Jalkh, Ethan Wood, Sadie Oberkirch, Marshall Roberston, Joshua Lee, Livy Loftin, and Dayln McGuire. President's Award for Educational Achievement recipients: Emily Nguyen, Camille Wittendorfer, Reese Gonzales, Luke Diamond, Kelsey Hicks, Darby Murphy, Meghan Jones, Connor Baldridge, Mary Evan Nelson, and Cecilia Veasey. Keep the Faith recipients: Lauren Fridley and Mark Jones, pictured with Mr. & Mrs. Colletti. Citizenship Award recipients: Dayln McGuire and Trey Waters. Spirit of Corpus Christi award recipients: Cole Patrick and Mary Evan Nelson. Light of Christ award recipients: Payton Anderson and Meghan Jones.

Dance

It’s about more than the steps. Confident, Ambitious, Focused and Happy!

633-9559

MON-THUR 2-6 pmm Classes start August 10.

We are following the CDC Guidelines for COVID-19. We are oﬀering both live and virtual learning.

Hillcrest@Grelot • Register for Fall@debbiesdance.com

Preschool Ages 2-4 • Ballet • Pointe • Tap • Jazz • Tumbling • Contemporary • Hip Hop Mobile Bay Parents I August 2020

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“Can I have a piece of candy?” my daughter asked me one morning, right after breakfast. I replied, “No, we aren’t going to have candy right now. It’s too early.” Mobile Bay Parents I August 2020

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What followed was not my best mom moment. My child began to ask repeatedly for candy. I repeatedly said “no” and the scene ended with my daughter trying to climb onto the counter to reach the candy. I took her to her room where she cried for several minutes and we both ended up tired and frustrated. How can one avoid this scene, or at least improve the situation? Getting your child to accept your answer of “no” and move on can be easier with some time and training.

Give a short explanation

Your child will better understand your reason for saying “no” to them if you give them a reason. Amy Cameron, mom of three says. “When I tell them ‘no’ I usually give them a why. I think they’re more likely to accept my answer when they understand.” Make sure your answer is short and to the point. If your child asks for a new toy the answer can simply be: “No, we can’t afford to buy a new toy today.” Be careful not to get pulled into back talk or responses like: “All my friends have one.” Keep your response short: “I said no.” And if your child continues to engage, walk away and do not look back.

Be consistent

The key to training your child that your answer stands is to remain consistent. Once you have decided to say “no”, do not change your mind. By giving in after you have said “no” you are teaching your child that you can be worn down if they are persistent enough. “Consistency is key,” says Janelle Waldron, mom of five. “If I say no, I don’t change my mind. I also try to take my time answering. That way I don’t say ‘no’ too quickly, and I can make a better decision.”

Talk later

Talking about your rules and expectations is particularly important to do when your child is calm and you are not in the middle of discussing whether or not your child can have something they asked for. After the fact, sit down and let your child know that when you have made a decision, it is final, and you will not change your mind no matter how much pleading and pestering they do. If the begging continues you will walk away and will not discuss the topic further. This is also a good time to explain why you say no to things. Typical reasons are: the activity is not safe, they are not old enough, you cannot afford it, it is not healthy, it goes against your family beliefs or values. These are not reasons that are debatable. Keep your discussion calm and listen to your child. Let them know you understand why they are upset with your decision, but that you will not be changing your mind. Give healthy suggestions that can help your child deal with their anger in the future. Some ideas could include going to their room to calm down, taking a walk, screaming into a pillow, or doing something they enjoy like reading, drawing, or building Legos. Keep the discussion positive, and if it starts to get heated, walk away. It is easier to start the training process at a young age, but it is not impossible to start at any stage of parenting. Training can take months or years as your child pushes the limits and tests you for inconsistency. Parenting is always a challenge, but raising a child that understands healthy boundaries and safety is worth it. MBP Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in more than 150 parenting publications.

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Should You Read Your Kid’s Texts?

• It lets you know when they’re ready for more responsibility. The better they manage their online lives, the more you can loosen the reins. If they’re following your rules, such as asking for permission before downloading apps, not hacking your parental controls, and overall conducting themselves responsibly, the spot checks can become less frequent—and maybe you can ease up on other restrictions they’ve proven they can handle.

You’re sitting there minding your own business when a nearby phone buzzes. U up?, it says, beckoning you closer. Only, it’s not your phone—it’s your kid’s. Do you pick it up? Do you “accidentally” swipe the screen for a closer look? If you’ve made up your mind— yes, you read your kid’s texts, or no, you don’t—more power to you! But if the question prompts a cascade of conflicting emotions, selfserving justifications, and guilt, we can help. Reading your kid’s texts is part of responsible parenting. But there’s only one scenario (described below) where we think it’s OK to do it without telling your kid. Most kids view their phones as their personal property, and it can become a proxy for their blossoming independence. So don’t sneak. Maintaining trust—especially in the vital years leading up to the teens—is critical to a healthy relationship (and it goes both ways). Your kids may not like it, but they’ll respect you for being honest. They’ll also understand your point of view better if you explain why you want to see what’s on their phone:

What are the downsides of reading my kid’s texts?

It’s just one piece of the puzzle. As much as we’ve been told that our kids are living online, they also very much live in the real world. The contents of their phones will give you some clues—but they could be misleading, taken out of context, or misunderstood. Yes, it can be hard to get your tween talking sometimes, but keep making the effort. An effective way to engage them is by asking what their friends are playing or doing on social media, instead of asking them directly about themselves. You’re going to discover stuff you won’t like … and need to figure out what to do about it. You’ll have to determine for yourself what constitutes typical tween stuff (swear words, cringey ideas, exploration of mature content) and what may be signs of deeper issues (inappropriate photos, hate speech, risky apps, troubling search terms such as “suicide” and “drugs”). Pick your battles: Use the minor issues as an opportunity to discuss your values, and give consequences for serious infractions. If you’re worried about something, do a more in-depth check of your kid’s well-being in person (we recommend the HEADSS assessment). If your kid’s having a bumpy time or hiding stuff, you can use a phone-monitoring app such as Bark or other parental control tools to receive notifications of alert words and off-limits activities. You may invade someone else’s privacy. Sure, you have the right to keep tabs on your own kid, but digging around on their phone will inevitably uncover something about their friends. Knowing private information can put you in a really awkward spot. Use your best judgment: If you think anyone is unsafe, you should do what you can to protect them. But if it’s just something you wish you could “unsee,” keep it to yourself.

It helps to keep them safe. Since so much of kids’ lives happens on devices, we need to keep tabs on whether their relationships are healthy, whether the content they’re seeing is age-appropriate, and even when they’re using their phones (such as when they’re supposed to be sleeping or in school). If you’ve already established the routine of spot checks, your kid should be expecting them. If not, make it clear it’s for their safety and that keeping them safe is part of your job. It reinforces your media rules. How can you tell they’re following your rules if you can’t see the evidence? You need to make sure they’re texting with people they know and that their relationships and activities are mostly positive. Tell your kid what you want to peek at and what you’re looking for. A few examples: • Texts show you whom they’re talking to and at what times. They’ll also provide a sense of whether the interactions are mostly beneficial. • Apps show you their online activities: what they’re reading, playing, listening to, and sharing. • Settings, including the ones on the phone and in individual apps, show you how they’re protecting their privacy, whether they have location services on or off, and even how much time they’re spending in their apps. Mobile Bay Parents I August 2020

A word about sneaking: The only situation that warrants spying is if you suspect something is seriously wrong. When your Spidey sense kicks in and you notice any signs of behavior change, declining grades, poor sleep, major hostility, withdrawal, or secrecy, you have a solid reason to check the phone without your kid knowing. And if you don’t find anything? Consider coming clean. Your kid may be upset at first, but if you use it as a chance to discuss what’s going on and how you might help them feel better—they’ll most likely forgive you. 24

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Mobile Bay Parents I August 2020

Ever feel overwhelmed by your children’s busy schedules? How do you keep track of it all? Many of us rely on our own planners, but have you ever considered pushing some of that responsibility onto your children? In second grade, my son’s school distributed school planners to each student to track their homework and upcoming exams. Having a planner has been incredibly helpful to my son (and me!) to make sure he doesn’t miss any assignments and so he can schedule time throughout his week to study for quizzes and tests. In fact, planners offer so much more than just a place to write down homework.

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Benefits Of School Planners Keep track of all commitments. Kids have hectic schedules between homework, tests, extracurricular activities, social outings, and family time. By having one place to write down all of the moving parts, your kids will stay on track and not get overwhelmed by their to-do list. In addition, Dr. Maggie Wray, success skills coach and mentor for teens and young adults, explains how writing down assignments in real time as the teacher announces them makes it so much easier for students to remember their assignments. Plus, it takes the pressure off of having to memorize what the teacher said because it’s right there in black and white. Manage time. Planners offer a visual reminder of tasks that can be crossed off when finished to help our kids stay on task and get things done in a more productive way than trying to remember everything by heart. The daily, weekly, and monthly calendar features can be especially helpful so students can see an overview of a chunk of time to help them better plan and balance their commitments.

Be more mindful. Planners help free up space in our kids’ brains so they can focus on other important things like creativity or critical thinking skills. Having a written plan frees up working memory, which makes it easier for them to focus on the task at hand. When students jot down their assignments and activities in a planner, their brains can stop struggling to keep track of everything they have left to work on. Instead, they can be more mindful, pay closer attention, learn more effectively, and complete their work more efficiently. Serves as a journal. Today, planners are so much more than just a calendar. Many include inspirational quotes and writing prompts so students can record their thoughts, feelings, and memories. I especially love journals that include a place to list what we are thankful for on a daily basis since gratitude is so critical to a happy, healthy lifestyle. Encourage your older children and teens to use their planners as a journal and to keep them so they can look back at them years from now. Helps your child achieve goals. Planners can guide your children so they can easily set and achieve their goals throughout the year. From small goals like finishing their

daily math homework to larger goals like making honor role, their planner will help bring their dreams to fruition. Set aside time each month with your children to review their goals using the SMART goal approach and help them track their steps for each goal by using their planner. With each milestone they check off their list, they will feel a major sense of accomplishment. The acronym SMART represents goals that are: • Specific: The more specific we are, the more focused we can be in reaching a goal. When your children say they want to do better in school, ask questions to guide them in identifying a more detailed goal. For example, which subject would they like to do better in? What grade are they hoping to achieve? • Measurable: It is important that we help our children identify how they will know they reached their goal, so it is clear what they are working towards. Is it an award, a grade, a project, or a skill they are looking to end up with in the end? • Achievable: Goals should be challenging within reason–not impossible. It is best

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tips to make sure your kids are using their planner effectively:

(Still) Serving Children Safely

ChildrensAL.org

It has always been our priority to ensure the safety and well-being of each child in our care — and that remains our commitment as we continue our mission during the Covid-19 pandemic. Here’s how we have redesigned our operations to keep our patients and their families as safe as possible: q q q q q q

All visitors are screened immediately for signs of illness and fever. We follow Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting our facilities. Our staff practices safe hand hygiene. We are wearing masks for your safety. Thank you for wearing your face covering. All visitors to campus are required to wear masks. Waiting rooms have been reconfigured to accommodate social distancing guidelines.

to encourage our children to take one step at a time and not to make things too difficult for themselves. They will be happier if they reach a few easier goals than struggling to attain a really difficult one.

succeed. Ask your children to determine a realistic time frame for meeting the goal. Be sure to consider other obligations and interests when choosing the estimated finish line.

• Relevant: Goals need to mean something to the children. They need to be excited and passionate about what they are working towards. If we set the goals for them, they will not gain anything from the experience and may possibly fail and be stressed over what we expect from them.

Tips For Using a School Planner Effectively

• Timely: If we don’t identify when we hope to achieve a goal, we are unable to Mobile Bay Parents I August 2020

The teachers at my son’s school require parents to review and sign the school planner everyday so we are engaged in the process, which I think is a wonderful idea. Here are some other 28

• Ask them to keep their planner with them at all times, such as in their backpack. • Create a habit of looking at their planner as soon as you and your children get home after school. It may also be helpful to look at it again in the morning before school to see what is coming up on the agenda. • If your teachers do not require a planner, work with them to make sure they are on board with your efforts. • Use a paperclip, bookmark, or other marker to keep the previous weeks’ pages of the planner together so it always opens to the current week. This will reduce confusion and frustration hunting for the right page. • Always use positive reinforcement regarding our child’s organizational efforts. Be sure to point out progress when you see it. • Teach your kids to check their calendar in the planner before agreeing to appointments or tasks.

Choosing The Best Planner For Your Kids It can be overwhelming trying to decide which school planner to buy for your kids. Look for ones that have a daily homework list, daily action or to-do list, tabs or bookmarks, monthly calendar pages, a place to write down long-term goals, and a place to track grades. Also, ADDitudeMag contributor Susan Kruger, M.Ed., suggests purchasing a simple, thin, spiral-bound planner that uses a weekly layout with a separate space for each day. No matter which type of planner you choose for your kids, you will be on your way to improving your hectic after school time and minimizing the fights with your kids about forgetting to do their schoolwork. Plus, you will be teaching them organizational skills that will prepare them for the rest of their life. MBP

Sandi Schwartz is a freelance writer/blogger and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. You can find her at www.happysciencemom.com and www.sandischwartz.com. Get her free course on raising happy, balanced kids at bit.ly/2i53TDV.

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Art Alabama Contemporary Art Center

Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 We offer many opportunities for children and their families to connect with contemporary art throughout the year.

(251) 208-5671 info@alabamacontemporary.org www.alabamacontemporary.org

Mobile Museum of Art

Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 Home art kits are available at www.mobilemuseumofart.com/mmofa-art-kits/. Please visit out website for childrens art information. Private reservations of For Children 2020 for groups of 10 or less.

(251) 208-5200 kwood@MobileMuseumOfArt.com www.mobilemuseumofart.com

Mobile Parks and Rec. Community Activities Numerous locations Mobile Art, Music, Sports, Dance, Educational Classes and more. (251) 208-1607 www.cityofmobile.org/residents/ parks-and-recreation/

Paint Party Studios

Paint Party Studios has moved online with art video tutorials and at-home art kits. We’ll resume school and church paint parties when guidelines allow. (251) 343-2423 info@paintpartystudios.com www.paintpartystudios.com; www.facebook.com/ paintpartystudios

Round But Square Studios

3304 Old Shell Road Suite C Mobile, 36608 Our mission is to empower people to live artful lives, develop creative confidence, and experience self-expression through art as a healthy alternative to screen time.

(251) 591-3425 roundbutsquarestudios@gmail.com www.roundbutsquarestudios.com

Dance Debbie’s School Of Dance ad on page 20

6429 Hillcrest Park Court Mobile, 36695 Dance classes for ages 2 – 18. Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Tumbling, Hip Hop, Pointe, Contemporary. We have a state-of-the-art studio equipped with 3 large studios, sprung Marley floors, and more accomodations for our dancers and parents. Classes start August 10. We are following the CDC Guidelines for COVID-19 and are offering both live and virtual learning. Register for FALL at debbiesdance.com. (251) 633-9559 debbiesdance2@bellsouth.net www.debbiesdance.com

Mobile Ballet Inc.

dancers will perform at a recital! (251) 610-4969

ad on page 17

4351 Downtowner Loop North Mobile, 36609 Recognized as the region’s premier school and performing company. Classical ballet, Modern/ Contemporary ballet, broadway-style jazz, musical theater, and tap. Under the direction of Katia Garza, our faculty has extensive performance & teaching experience, enabling us to offer a complete curriculum of pre-ballet - pre-professional levels, including adult classes. Registration available online. (251) 342-2241 info@mobileballet.org www.mobileballet.org

6345 Airport Blvd (Picadilly Square/ near Buffalo Wild Wings) Mobile, 36608 Ages 2 & up! Ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical/contemporary, hip hop and acrobatics/tumbling. Register online: GalesStudioofDance.com. Classes begin August 10. Follow us on FaceBook.com/ GalesStudioofDance • 38 years & going strong! (251) 343-9544

www.galesstudioofdance.com

208 Saraland Blvd S Suite F3 Saraland, 36571 Our goal is to not only teach the art of dance, but to ignite a passion and love of dance within a Christian conservative atmosphere.

ad on page 13

1901 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36606 4570 Hermitage Avenue Mobile, 36619 “Celebrating over 75 years of excellence and Mobile’s #1 choice in dance and a three-time “Best Dance Studio” winner in the Nappie Awards. “Motivating Young People and Enhancing Lives.” All ages and levels age 3 thru adults, Beginner thru Advanced Level. The very best in Ballet/ Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary/Lyrical, Hip Hop and more is offered! (251) 479-3926 info@sheffielddance.net www.sheffielddance.com

Broadway South Dance Studio

7906 Westside Park Drive Mobile, 36695 Large, diverse faculty headed by a New York Dance Professional. Spacious studios with Sprung dance floors. Tremendous schedule with plenty to offer at all levels. Limited Class Sizes, Age Appropriate Classes and Choreography Dance lessons offered for ages 2-adult.

(251) 639-0660 michelle@broadwaysouthdance.com www.broadwaysouthdance.com

CC Dance Studio and Company

(251) 234-7982 kenzie@GDCdance.com www.gdcdance.com

How Fine Arts Program

10160 Airport Blvd Building E Mobile, 36608 HOW Dance & Drama. Christian Fine Arts Program in West Mobile. Limited class sizes. Next show-Christmas Carol! Call to get involved! 251-895-5380

www.how-mobile.com

Inspired Dance Academy

900 Schillinger Road S, Suite A Mobile, 36695 We are now accepting dancers ages 2 and Up! We work to inspire dancers to activate the inner confidence every person possesses. Classes start August 10. (251) 263-9545 com/inspiredda

www.inspireddanceacade.wixsite.

Jubilee School of Dance

6245 Old Rangeline Road Theodore, 36582 Our vision is to offer instruction in various forms and style of dance for children and adults. We offer classes in classical ballet, tap, lyrical, and pre-dance. (251) 408-0219

2560 Leroy Stevens Road Mobile, 36695 Our main emphasis are in building children’s character and self-esteem, while teaching them a technical art in a positive and supportive environment with excellent instruction, facilities and equipment.

jubileeschool.dance@gmail.com

Kelly’s Dance Academy

(251) 639-1106 info@ccdancestudioandcompany.com ccdancestudioandcompany.com

Classical Ballet of Mobile

4621 Spring Hill Avenue, Suite C Mobile, 36608 We are an Academy for Pre-Ballet through Advanced dancers, including Theatre Jazz, offering outstanding instruction in classical ballet. Sign up for Fall Registration now! (251) 410-4477 academy@classicalballetmobile.org www.classicalballetmobile.org

4715 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608 Offering dance classes exclusively to the special needs community! Preschool through adults. All

Gale’s Studio of Dance, Inc.

Grace Dance Center

Sheffield School of the Dance

Dance Without Limits

www.dancewithoutlimitsfoundation.org

9420 Alabama 188 Irvington, 36544 Kelly’s Dance Academy is a national award winning studio, home to numerous National Champions, and has been teaching students the love and art of dance. (251) 605-3960

www.facebook.com/KDA5678

Maccrossan School of Irish Dance

We teach kids of all ages the traditional jigs, reels, hornpipes, and ceili dances of the beautiful art form that is Irish dancing. (251) 239-2422

maccrossanirishdance@yahoo.com

Melinda Leigh Performing Arts Center

6641 Moffett Road Mobile, 36618 Highly trained staff who have your child’s best interest at heart! Our studio features two spacious dance rooms with many classes offered to fit your busy schedule! (251) 649-6361

www.mlpac.com

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Next Generation Dance

(251) 675-5915 Robinsonsseven@aol.com www.robinsonsschoolofdance.com

Precision Dance Academy

(251) 455-1866 robinsonsbayoustudio@gmail.com www.facebook.com/Robinsonsbayoustudio/

(251) 591-9899 www.nextgenerationdancecenter.com

168 Noel Street Mobile, 36607 Starting our dancers at 18 months, Your Childs individual progrss is our main Focus. Proud home of the Advanced National Champion Dance Company- The Divas

Mobile Bay Dance Academy, Inc.

3055 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36607 Mobile Bay Dance Academy Inc. is committed to providing professional dance instruction inspiring self awareness and self discipline through the passion and love of dance. (251) 455-3044 mobilebaydanceacademy@ comcast.net www.mobilebaydanceacademy.com

Robinson’s School of Dance: Bayou Studio

8665 Four Mile Road Irvington, 36544 Offering the best in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Baton, Hip Hop, Acrobatics and Cheer. (Ages 2 and up). Come join our national award-winning studio!

www.thedanceacademyofmobile.net

(251) 422-0262 tpdadancefamily@gmail.com www.tpdadancefamily.com

421 Highway 43 North Saraland, 36571 We offer the best in Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical, Contemporary, Musical Theater, Hip Hop, Baton, and Acrobats. Robinson’s is home of the award winning “Lynn Robinson Dancers” who

(251) 209-7774

3456 Hillcrest Road, Bldg B5 Mobile, 36695 From private lessons in our new studio, to yearly programs, The Dance Academy will find the way to bring the love of Dance into your life.

Rhythm Dance Center

Robinson’s School Of Dance

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Turning Point Dance Academy

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(251) 222-3403 precisiondancecompany@gmail.com Find us on Facebook and Instagram

2355 Snow Rd Semmes, 36575 We offer recreational classes as well as an outstanding performance team. We welcome students from the age of 2 & up into our studio.

(251) 649-2767

have won many local and national competitions.

5721 Hwy 90 West, Suite C Theodore, 36582 We are focused on providing high-quality dance education, and we will do everything we can to meet your expectations.

4880 Lakeland Drive Suite D Mobile, 36619 We are a conservative studio that gives each child the individual attention that they deserve. At TPDA every child is a star!

Education and Tutoring Huntington Learning Center ad on page 15

2370 Hillcrest Road #D Mobile, 36695 Huntington offers phonics, reading, math, writing, and study skills programs for K-12th grade stu-

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dents and one-on-one ACT/SAT prep programs to help students qualify for scholarships or admittance to their dream college. (251) 525-9239

www.huntingtonhelps.com

The Think Tank Tutoring ad on page 11

We provide one-on-one in-home tutoring services to pre-kindergarten through adult students in: Reading, Math, Science, History, Study Skills, Standardized Test Prep such as ACT and SAT, Kindergarten Readiness, and much more! Our average student improves two letter grades in 90 days! (251) 414-4494 thinktankminds@gmail.com www.thinktankminds.com

USA Literacy Center ad on page 21

University of South Alabama, UCOM 3600 Mobile, 36688 USA Literacy Center offers reading and writing tutoring for children kindergarten through twelfth grade. Individual and/or small group reading and writing tutoring. Monday - Thursday 3:30 6:30pm.Initial Assessment Fees: $75. Individual Session: $40. Small Group Session (2-5 students) $25. Family and military discounts are available.

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

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!

6611 Wall Street • Mobile, AL 36695 | 251.607.0110 - local | www.pickettortho.com

2620 College Ave. Jackson, AL 36545 | 877.660.1103 - toll–free | info@pickettortho.com

(251) 380-2891 jmholland@southalabama.edu www.southalabama.edu/literacy

Gulf Coast Young Engineers

Eastern Shore and Mobile areas, Offering robotics STEM enrichment programs onsite after school and with our new virtual robotics program. Ages 6-10. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram. (251) 213-4061

gulfcoast@e2youngengineers.com

Kumon Learning Center

3964-B Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608 Kumon is the world’s largest after-school math and reading enrichment program, unlocking the potential of children so they can achieve more on their own. (251) 494-4400 sarahbigazzi@ikumon.com www.kumon.com/mobile-spring-hill

Lindamood-Bell Learning

2864 Dauphin Street, Suite D Mobile, 36606 Lindamood-Bell helps children and adults improve language processing—the foundation of all communication and learning.

(251) 473-6808; Toll Free: (800) 300-1818 lindamoodbell.com/location/mobile-al-learning-center

Read-Write: The Learning Center

4308 Downtowner Loop N Mobile, 36609 Read-Write specializes in academic language therapy for students with dyslexia and other learning disabilities, including math. One-onone, intensive instruction during and after school hours. (251) 287-1822 mobileoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com www.readwritelearningcenter.com

Schoolworks

1811 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36607 Tutoring from PreK-College, ADHD Coaching of all ages, All subject areas, ACT Prep, Iowa Testing Center, homeschool services and Summer camps! Find us on Facebook! (256) 252-8374

STARTSMART College Bound Career Ready

A full service provider of college prep, career planning, resume writting and other soft skills.

(251) 767-5446 startsmartcollegebound@gmail.com Find us on Facebook

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

Threads and Bobbins

Mobile & Baldwin County, Offering sewing classes and private lessons for adults & children in Daphne, Fairhope & Mobile, Alabama. Please contact us for class schedules and pricing. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ threadsnbobbins for updates! threadsandbobbins@ hotmail.com www.threadsandbobbins.com

Tutor Doctor

(251) 660-4254 smartatorium@gmail.com www.smartatorium.com

Mobile Bay Parents I August 2020

Mrs Lisa’s Gym & Cheer

144 East I-65 Service Road North Mobile, 36607 We offer Recreational Tumbling Classes, Competitive Cheer Teams, School Cheer Team Tumbling and Private Lessons. Classes are for all ages 1 & up, Homeschool classes available. (251) 471-9708 mrslisasalabamajags@comcast.net Find us on Facebook

Ms. Daphne’s CheerNastics

(251) 580-6802 www.tutordoctor.com

(251) 599-2205

Cheer Force One

4505 Old Shell Rd Mobile, 36608 One-on-one tutoring for all math, science, humanities, and languages; grades 6-12, AP, and early college. One-on-one test prep for ACT/SAT, SSAT, GRE, FE.

(251) 666-0559 www.cityofmobile.org/residents/ parks-and-recreation/parks-recreation-gymnastics/

We provide tutoring services to students of all ages, levels and subjects at your home.

Gymnastics

The Smartatorium

recreational gymnastics classes for children of differing ability levels and ages. 18 months - high school.

8700 Zeigler Boulevard Mobile, 36608 The Gulf Coast’s premier tumbling and cheerleading training program is accepting new members. Start with our basic membership or ask about our All Star or Club Cheer programs! (251) 634-0203 info@cheerforceone.com www.cheerforceone.com

Cottage Hill Gymnastics Center

1711 Hillcrest Road Mobile, 36695 Cottage Hill Gymnastics Center offers various

102 Baker Road Satsuma, 36572 Classes for all levels of Tumbling and Cheerleading! Find us on Facebook

Nasser Gymnastics and Cheerleading

3055 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36607 Nasser’s provides quality training in a clean, safe, and fun environment. Happily flipping for 50 years! (251) 479-9311 nassergym@yahoo.com www.nassergym.net

Planet Gymnastics

900 Schillinger Road South #B Mobile, 36695 For boys and girls all levels. 17,500 sf, airconditioned, state-of-the-art facility. Bouncing Babies and Preschool Classes, Girls & Boys Developmetal Classes, Teams for Girls and Boys, Cheer Squad, Trampoline and Tumbling Classes (251) 650-0699 planetgymnasticsal@comcast.net www.planetgymnastics.com

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Celisse’s School of the Equestrian

(251) 289-1244 kcequestrianarts@gmail.com www.CSEAMobile.org

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2568 Sollie Road Mobile, 36695 Our Mission: To educate, heal, and enrich lives by joining forces with horses.

Mimi C. Peters Riding School at Silver Lining Farm

10727 El Nina Drive Mobile, 36608 We offer riding lessons in classical English style. Our goal is to teach students how to ride, handle and groom horses safely and to the best of their ability. (251) 634-1229 horses@silverliningfarm.net www.silverliningfarm.net

Sandstone Equestrian Center

9450-A Jeff Hamilton Road Mobile, 36695 Our lesson program is open to riders of all ages and experience levels. We specialize in dressage and eventing while teaching the basics of English riding. (251) 633-8088

www.sandstoneequestriancenter.com

Starlight Stables

11635 Dick Turner Road Grand Bay, 36541 We are the home of Toni’s ponies and party services! We offer lessons in western style riding. (251) 391-4268

www.starlightstables.weebly.com

Martial Arts ATA Martial Arts

2410 Dawes Road Mobile, 36695 We mix a perfect blend of fun activities and games in our kids martial art classes to keep kids’ atten-

tion. Programs: Tigers(4 – 6), Karate Kids(7 – 12), Teen(13+), Adult(18+) (251) 307-5676

www.max3training.com

1261 Hillcrest Road Mobile, 36695 We mix a perfect blend of fun activities and games in our kids martial art classes to keep kids’ attention. Programs: Tigers(4–6), Karate Kids(7–12), Teen(13+), Adult(18+) www.max3training.com

1121 Dawes Road Mobile, 36695 Kids, teens and adult classes. Our Martial Arts Classes Are The Best Way To Help Your Child Reach Their Full Potential.

www.grahamselitemartialarts.com

9120 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608 All ages and levels. A safe, state of the art facility with a focus on Christian Values. *Also offering program for special needs children.* www.ismartialarts.com

McLean’s Martial Arts & Fitness

1490 Celeste Road Saraland, 36571 We offer highly specialized martial arts classes for children and adults taught by nationally certified instructors. (251) 675-9662

www.mcleansmartialarts.com

Port City Kickboxing Academy

7335 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36695 South Alabama’s original championship kickboxing & BJJ academy! (251) 470-0903

www.pckickboxing.com

Springhill Taekwondo

2029 Airport Blvd. Suite G Mobile, 36606 Our unique approach to Martial Arts instruction provides TKD classes for all ages in Mobile with positive results specific to each individual student’s needs.

Music

Inner Strength Martial Arts

(251) 776-1978

www.shaolin-world.net

(251) 554-5425 coachwebb@springhilltaekwondo.com www.springhilltaekwondo.com

Graham’s Elite Martial Arts (Elite Fitness)

(251) 633-7837

704 Lakeside Drive Mobile, 36693 Martial Arts School (251) 662-3225

ATA Martial Arts

(251) 633-5808

Shaolin Institute

Full Scale School of Music / Azalea City Center For the Arts ad on page 3, 25

63 Midtown Park East Mobile, 36606 Group classes and private lessons for those interested in learning an instrument. Daniel Driskell, Director - piano, guitar, bass, mandolin, saxophone, clarinet, flute/Angela Rayburn – piano/David White - drums, percussion/Elizabeth Bernath, violin/Joshua Ward - guitar, bass/Laryssa Burgess, piano/Laura Deal – piano/John Cochran, guitar, rock band and Natalie Blackburn - violin, viola, cello. (251) 454-6591 fullscaleschool@gmail.com www.fullscaleschool.com

Andy’s Music Inc.

1412 Hillcrest Road Mobile, 36695 Locally owned and operated family business. We are the only full-line musical instrument store in Mobile offering lessons, rentals, instrument repair,

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

please call 251-285-2285 or email mobilesingingchildren@ gmail.com. (251) 285-2285 mobilesingingchildren@gmail.com www.mobilesingingchildren.org

Worship Arts Academy

5555 Moffett Road Mobile, 36618 The Worship Arts Academy School of Music exists to glorify God by equipping and training students in the areas of music, dance and worship. (251) 342-0563 mrbcworshiparts@gmail.com www.facebook.com/worshipartsmrbc/

Scouting and Sea Cadets Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama ad on page 16

3483 Springhill Avenue Mobile, 36608 Transform ideas into actions, questions into adventures, and grow confidence through practice, every step of the way. With programming across 30 counties, GSSA offers every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of leadership, adventure, and success. (800) 239-6636 customercare@girlscoutssa.org www.girlscoutssa.org

Boy Scouts of America

Performing Arts Azalea City Center For the Arts ad on page 3, 25

63 Midtown Park East

and a complete music department. (251) 633-8944

www.andysmusiconline.com

Broussard’s Academy of Music

1541 East I-65 Service Road S Mobile, 36606 We offer a state of the art piano academy; all of our teachers are accredited members of the local music teachers association, and have multiple years’ experience teaching. (251) 344-8856

broussardspianos.com/academy/

Christ UMC - Kindermusik

Christ United Methodist Church, 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Trusted. Proven. Educational. And of course, fun! Our studio is proud to offer Kindermusik, the world’s leading provider of music and movement programs for young children! (251) 706-3336

www.kindermusikatchristunited.com

Mobile Music Teachers Association

Mobile Music Teachers Association is an organization of professional teachers offering piano, strings, theory, organ, voice and early childhood music. Information on teachers and studio locations, available online. www.mobilemta.org

Mobile School of Piano

Private Piano Lessons for ages 4 to adult. Learn how to sight-read, play by ear, improvise and more in a fun, uplifting environment! Call today for a free trial lesson! (251) 272-9616

www.mobileschoolofpiano.com

Mobile Symphony Strings in Schools, String Academy and Chamber Strings

The Mobile Symphony offers during and after school strings in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Several wonderful opportunities for any instrument and level. More information at www.mobilesymphony.org. (251) 432-2010 daniela@mobilesymphony.org www.mobilesymphony.org

Mobile’s Singing Children

Premier youth choir on the Gulf Coast. Students in grades 2nd-12th perform choral music in four ageappropriate ensembles. To schedule your audition, Mobile Bay Parents I August 2020

Mobile, 36606 Mobile’s all-Inclusive home for the creative kid; theater, music, dance, gymnastics, voice and more. Class listing available online. NEWAzalea City Center for the Arts will open its doors from 7:30 am - 3 pm for Virtual Learning assistance. Extended hours from 6:30 am 6:00 pm will also be available. Drama classes taught by Sunny Side Theater and Actor’s Edge Studio; Music lessons and Rock Band taught by Full Scale School of Music, Private voice lessons with Dr. Allanda Small, Anna Fillingim, & Michael Devery; Gymnastics classes with Chelle Ferguson & Dance classes with Rebekah Howard also available.

2587 Government Boulevard Mobile, 36606 Our mission is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law. (251) 476-4600 scouts@bsamac.org www.bsamac.org

Sewing

The PACT Theatre Company ad on page 7

3995 Cottage Hill Road, Suite C Mobile, 36609 Our academy specializes in teaching acting, dance, vocal training, theatre, and college & audition prep. Our productions are open to those in 1st Grade-Adults. (251) 307-5056 office@thepactmobile.com www.thepactmobile.com

Playhouse in the Park

4851 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 A comprehensive training program of drama, dance, vocal, piano, guitar, and scenic art classes; and an elaborate, full-scale puppet theatre. (251) 602-0630

www.playhouseinthepark.org

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(251) 454-5263 www.facebook.com/pages/ Dancing-Needles-Designs/180113318695591

(251) 979-3018 fasterthanyour40@gmail.com www.facebook.com/AOCSports/

www.sunnysidedrama.com

590 Schillinger Road S, Suite D Mobile, 36695 Classes and private lessons available!

Sunny Side Theater/ Actor’s Edge

(251) 510-1808

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63 Midtown Park East Mobile Sunny Side Theater offers a variety of afterschool drama, dance, and gymnastics classes for all ages. Classes age 4 through high school. Actor’s Edge Studio directed by Eric Browne will offer advanced level acting classes. Main stage productions for the year include Matilda Jr, Bring it On, Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Seussical Jr, & Moana Jr.

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3309 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36607 Sports training

City of Mobile Swim Assoc. (CMSA)

We offer training and practice groups for swimmers of all ages and ability levels (based on group avaliablity) (251) 422-0011

www.swimcmsa.com

Empire Athletics

246 Jacintoport Blvd Saraland, 36571 A training facility that focuses on high quality cheer and tumbling instruction. We also have camps, clinics and classes. 251-620-9780

www.empireathleticstraining.com

Greater Pensacola Figure Skating

Pensacola Bay Center, 201 East Gregory Street Pensacola, 32502 Learn-to-Skate, private/semi-private lessons available. Ages 4 - adult. Visit our website for registration. Skaters from Mobile, Al across the coast to Panama City, FL. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram! 850-525-6177 president@pensacolafigureskating.com www.pensacolafigureskating.com

Heisler Heat Baseball

4623 Springhill Avenue Mobile, 36608 Private hitting/pitching instruction for baseball AND softball athletes,-Travel baseball, Speed and Agility classes and Strength development classes. (251) 581-1556 heislerheat@gmail.com Find us on Facebook

www.mobilebayparents.com

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High Velocity Sports

2513 Leroy Stevens Road Mobile, 36695 A sports training facility offering Sports Performance, Fitness, Batting Cages, Baseball/Softball, Indoor Soccer, Speed& Agility, Strength, Camps, and more! (251) 633-6263

Find us on Facebook

McCranie ATA Martial Arts

3385 Schillinger Road North Semmes, 36575 Confidence building martial arts classes. (251) 473-0015

www.mccranieata.com

Michael Brisbane Golf Instruction

Azalea City Golf Course, 1000 Gaillard Drive Mobile, 36608 Golf lessons for all ages and skill levels.

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

Mobile County Aquatics League (MCAL)

MCAL was organized to promote a competitive program of swimming and diving among summer league swim clubs located in southwest Alabama. www.mcalswimming.weebly.com

Mobile Parks and Rec Community Activities Numerous locations Mobile Art, Music, Sports, Dance, Gymnastics, Educational Classes and more. (251) 208-1607 www.cityofmobile.org/residents/ parks-and-recreation/

Mobile United Futbol Club

If you are looking for the next level of soccer, find a home with Mobile United FC. (251) 219-0021 mobileunitedsecretary@gmail.com www.mobileunitedfc.com

Ronnie Arrow Basketball Academy

Various Locations, Mobile Basketball Academy for boys and girls ages 4th Grade - College. Learn Basketball skills the right way. (251) 509-2700

www.ronniearrow.com

Springhill Baptist Youth Sports

Springhill Baptist Activity Center, 2 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 We offer several team sports and camps for 5K-6th grade. Our mission is to promote the discovery of Jesus through sports. Playing with Purpose! (251) 342-5375 shbc.cc/ministries/recreation-andactivities-at-spring-hill/youth-sports-at-spring-hill/

St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Youth Team Sports

3975 Japonica Lane Mobile, 36609 For information on outside participation for students that do not attend St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, please email swaite@stlukesmobile.com. We are now registering for the following Fall sports: (tackle football, flag football, cheerleading, cross country and volleyball). (251) 666-2991 swaite@stlukesmobile.com www.ydlsports.net

The Copeland-Cox Tennis Center

851 Gaillard Drive Mobile, 36608 Offers a variety of tennis clinics. Facilities: Cottage Hill, Lions Park and Mobile Tennis Center. (251) 208-5181

www.mobiletenniscenter.net

The Performance Lab

842 Schillenger Rd S Suite B Mobile, 36695 A 30,000 square foot indoor sports training facility specializing in baseball and softball (251) 307-5548 info@performancelabmobile.com www.performancelabmobile.com

Volleyball

www.gulfcoastvolleyball.org/club-directory MBP

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

Examining the Debt Snowball Q. What exactly is the debt snowball, and why is it such an important part of your plan?

A. The debt snowball is Baby Step 2 of my plan for getting out of debt and gaining control of your finances. Specifically, it’s the part of the plan where you sit down with your budget, and look at all the money you owe. Then, list your debts from smallest to largest—except for your home—and pay them off in that order. I know, there are all sorts of arguments about paying off the ones with the highest interest rates first. But this is psychology class, not math. Personal finance is 80% behavior, and 20% knowledge. Besides, if you were so great at math you wouldn’t have debt, would you? Pay off your debts from

smallest to largest, unless there’s a huge emergency, such as you’re facing foreclosure, or the IRS is banging on your door. The reason we pay off debts from smallest to largest is to build confidence and enthusiasm by notching quick wins. If you go on a diet and lose weight in the first week, you’ll probably stay on that diet. If you go on a diet and gain weight, or go weeks with no visible progress, chances are you’ll quit. When you start the debt snowball, and in the first few days pay off a couple of debts, it lights a fire underneath you, and you start to believe you really can do it. After you list the debts from smallest to largest, pay the minimum payment to stay current on all the debts except the smallest. Every dollar you can squeeze

out of your budget goes toward the smallest debt until it is paid. Once the smallest one is paid, the payment from that debt— plus any extra “found” money—is added to the next smallest debt. Then, when debt number two is paid off, you take the money that you used to pay on number one and number two, and you pay it on number three. When three is paid, you attack number four and so on. A lot of folks get to the bottom of the list, and find they can pay well over $1,000 a month on a student loan or a car. At that point, it won’t take long to bust out and be debt-free except for your home. The main elements that make the debt snowball so powerful are budgeting, getting current before you start the debt snowball, the smallest-to-largest pay-off, sacrifice, discipline, and focused intensity. If you think the debt snowball is just another trick, or something you might kind of try, it won’t work. You’ve got to go all-in to win!

SAFER AT HOME

SUNDAY PUZZLES Each week we are sharing a new puzzle featuring an artwork from the Museum’s collection. Whether a solo personal challenge or joint family effort, we make it easy for you to get solving—simply play on your computer, smartphone, or tablet. Play now at mmfa.org/blog. Leonard Koscianski (American, born 1952), Red Fish, 1990, oil on canvas, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Association Purchase, 1991.17

Blount Cultural Park One Museum Drive, Montgomery, AL mmfa.org | @MontgomeryMFA

Mobile Bay Parents I August 2020

www.mobilebayparents.com

ALABAMA CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY QUICK SAFETY TIPS

• RIGHT SEAT: Check the label on your car seat to make sure it’s appropriate for your child’s age, weight and height. • RIGHT PLACE: Keep all children in the back seat until they are 13. • RIGHT DIRECTION: Keep your child in a rear facing position for as long as possible! When he or she outgrows the seat, move your child to a forward-facing car seat. • INCH TEST: Once your car seat is installed, use your non-dominate hand and shake the seat at the belt path. A properly installed seat will not move more than an inch. • PINCH TEST: Make sure the harness is tightly buckled and coming from the correct slots. Now, with the chest clip placed at armpit level, pinch the strap at your child’s shoulder. If you are unable to pinch any excess webbing, you’re good to go!

DID YOU KNOW? • Motor vehicle injuries are a leading cause of death among children in the US.

ALABAMA CHILD RESTRAINTS LAW REQUIRES CHILDREN UNDER 6 TO BE PROPERLY BUCKLED IN AN APPROPRIATE CAR SEAT OR BOOSTER SEAT. CAR SEAT RECOMMENDATIONS: • Infant only seats and convertible seats used in the rear facing position for infants until at least 1 year of age or 20 pounds. • Convertible seats in the forward position or forward-facing seats until the child is at least 5 years of age or 40 pounds. • Booster seats until the child is 6 years of age. • Seat belts until 15 years of age. *American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children remain in a rear-facing car safety seat as long as possible, until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their seat.

FREE CAR SEAT CHECK Still have questions or concerns? For help (or to even double check your work), contact:

• Car seat use reduces the risk for injury in a crash by 71-82% for children, when compared with seat belt use alone.

Michelle Richardson (Perry, Walker, Lamar counties): (205) 554-4529

• An estimated 46% of car seats and booster seats are misused in a way that could reduce their effectiveness.

Anna Odom (Washington, Clarke, Baldwin counties): (251) 946-8012

Penny Roney (Madison, Marshall, Morgan counties): (256) 533-8712 Sharon Franklin (Macon, Elmore, Bullock counties): (334) 322-8431 Elizabeth Payne (St. Clair, Etowah, Calhoun counties): (256) 533-8712 1

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

OWA is everything you love about the summer. Cool down with the high-speed breeze on one of more than 20 rides. Stroll through Downtown OWA for great dining, entertainment and shopping options. Save even more with $5 drink specials on Thirsty Thursdays, 4-9 p.m. in Downtown through 9/3. Come back on Fridays through 8/7 for Downtown on Tap which features a different brewery each Friday, 5-7 p.m. at participating Downtown restaurants. See our calendar for all events including Caribbean Day, 8/1 and Community Safety Day, 8/22!

FOLEY, AL | 7 MILES FROM THE BEACH | VISITOWA.COM | 251.923.2111 1

THRILL, THEN CHILL. www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents