Mobile Bay Parents July 2021 by KeepSharing

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WHERE BIRTHDAY WISHES COME TRUE At OWA, every birthday becomes a one-of-a-kind celebration. Our Birthday Party Package is a parents’ wish come true as we take care of everything from tickets and pizzas to an up-close magic performance and more—all you need to bring is the cake! If games and eSports are the wish, celebrate at Clash eSports, with party packages for up to 10 people to enjoy Clash for up to 2.5 hours! And Paula Deen wants to make more birthday wishes come true through the magic of Southern cooking, so Alabama and Escambia County, FL residents get a free lunch or dinner on their birthday! Whatever you’re wishing for, you’ll find it at VisitOWA.com.

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

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Volume 11 Number 4

Columns

2 Publisher’s Note

15 Ways to Earn Extra Money as a Mom

Jobs at home and what they pay.

4 Kids Say the Wisest Things

Common Sense Media

Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

How girls are seeking (and subverting) approval online.

5 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

31 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

The Savvy Party Planner Your countdown checklist to a stress free birthday party.

Birthday Party Guide

44 Dave Says

All the local resources you need for their big day.

Dave Ramsey

Departments On The Cover Ruby Caroline Daniels (1) daughter of Alex and Ashley Daniels and little sister to Lucy Elizabeth (5). Grandparents are David and Laurie Reeves, Edward Lainsbury, and Anne Nasser. Ruby is walking everywhere and learning to talk. She loves plaing with her sister Lucy, playing in Mama’s makeup, strolling her pretend baby, swinging outside, and playing with friends. Sister Lucy enjoys gymnastics, crafting, swimming, ballet, singing, helping with her little sister, going to school and seeing friends.

6 Bits and Pieces 8 School Bits 41 Family Calendar

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FromthePublisher

Mobile Bay Mobile Bay’s Foremost Parenting Source

I absolutely love celebrating other people’s birthdays. Birthdays are a great opportunity to reach out and let someone know that they matter and have a special place in this world. If you are on social media and have had people you haven’t heard from in years post a birthday wish to you, then you know what I mean. It makes a person feel really good. There are some people who might think that a simple “Happy Birthday” posted on a time line does not mean anything, but it really does. That person took those few moments out of their day to let you know they were thinking about you. That is what birthdays are all about. Letting people know they are special. For every birthday in our home, my family wakes up to birthday messages, streamers and balloons because I want them to wake with a smile that I hope will last all day. Some people have boxes of holiday décor in their attic, but I have boxes of streamers, signs and balloons just waiting to be hung. At any given time you are sure to find a random piece of scotch tape on a wall in my home leftover from one of the festivities. Recently, I learned how to make balloon garland and that has taken the fun to a whole new level! If you love birthdays and party planning as much as I do, the first thing you should do is flip over to page 36, where you will find our annual Birthday Party Resource Guide. This directory is filled with valuable information to help you get ready for your special event. Make sure you tuck this issue in a convenient place so you have it year round as you plan all of your celebrations! When planning a party, there are a lot of “to-dos” that have to get done. If all those pile up on you, it makes for a very stressful event robbing you of the joy of the actual party. With proper planning you can enjoy the day just as much as the guests, if not more. In The Savvy Party Planner: Countdown To A Stress-free Birthday Celebration, on page 32, Christina Katz helps you lay out a game plan that will have you rested and ready for the big day. As we all know, parties can get expensive. There are great ways to save by reusing supplies or baking your own cake, but that still costs money. Many families I know are still struggling after the pandemic and looking for ways to bring in extra income to help with their budgets... and hopefully have money left over for the extras like parties. While there are a plethora of jobs out there due to the job shortage, you may be looking for something that will allow a little more flexibility in your schedule. If so, check out Cheryl Maguire’s recommendations in 15 Way to Earn Extra Monday as a Mom, found on page 28. Whether you are looking for a fun family activity in our Family Calendar, checking out some great School News or planning the perfect party, we hope you find the July issue both helpful and entertaining. Also during the birth month of our great country, I want to thank all of the men and women in service who work to keep us the land of the free and home of the brave. God bless the USA! Have a Happy 4th and a wonderful July!

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.

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. Christina Katz Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA Cheryl Maguire Dave Ramsey

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

Lynn

Visit us at www.mobilebayparents.com

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Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

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 2021 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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2021

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Our 20th Super Summer! June 1 - August 13 Ages PreK-12 * Groups divided by age 9am - 1pm or 7am - 6pm hours available

Drama & Music Camps The Original Drama Camp

Middle & High School Music Camps

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Drama Camp Jr.

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Elementary Music Camps Star Wars Piano, Hands on Instrument, Disney Music, & Rock Band Jr.

Glee Camp Join us as we sing our way through the summer!

For our youngest performers! Each week has a separate theme and we produce a skit for parents on Friday! Themes include Frozen, Moana, Matilda, Dr. Seuss, & more!

Rising Stars Advanced Level Drama Camp

Students in grades 8 & up put on a fun comedy!

azaleacityarts.org • director@azaleacityarts.org

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to be rewarded when they do hard things. Research has repeatedly shown that this “If, Then” style of parenting is the most effective way to change behavior.

1. It focuses on teaching, shaping, and rewarding what you want to see in your children. For example, if your children have to earn media time instead of being entitled to it, it creates a natural setting to practice doing the right thing (compliance, chores, sharing, taking turns, etc).

by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

“They Always Take Everything Away From Me!” In the typical 21st century American household, children are given free access to most (if not all) of their favorite items. They can freely play with their toys, run around the backyard, gather their own snacks, turn on the TV, get their own drinks, and maintain control of their own electronic devices. As soon as the children misbehave, parents run into the room and start taking away the items. In other words, we want our kids to have everything, but only on our terms. This system of discipline is harmful and ineffective for several reasons… 1. It focuses is on what the child does wrong instead of what the child does well. 2. During the process of taking the item away, the child has as much power as the parent. 3. The child begins to behave out of fear of what he/she will lose instead of truly wanting to the right thing. “They always take everything away from me,” is our wise kid statement of the month. As a parent, you may be thinking, “I have to

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

take everything away from my children to get them to behave.” Would you believe me if I told you that there is a much easier, more effective way to get your children to complete their chores, eat their vegetables, and take their baths? All you have to do is take control of the things you actually can control. Instead of “clean your room or I will take away your iPad,” try “clean your room and you can have 30 minutes on your iPad.” The difference I am suggesting is a simple change in semantics, but a change in semantics will make all the difference. Let’s look at it another way. Taking away the items you have given your children is equivalent to a company paying their employees before work and then collecting a portion of the pay every time an employee accidentally or intentionally does something wrong. I am pretty confident that no one would choose to work for that company! So why do we choose this as our primary way to parent? We can all agree that most children are NOT intrinsically (internally) motivated. Children are not born with a desire to be constantly obedient and positive. Children are extrinsically (externally) motivated and need

2. It allows the parent to be proactive instead of reactive. Threats of loss often lead to tantrums or uncontrollable situations. “If, Then” allows the child to see that they have some control in the situation, which encourages logical thinking, and wise decision making. 3. When this approach is done well, children are rewarded for every attempt they make to “do the right thing”. This naturally develops self-compassion, which is one of the most important requirements for mental health. Self-compassion is one’s ability to accurately see their own strengths/ weaknesses. People who are self-compassionate are able to focus on where they need to improve, make goals to do so, and reward themselves for their efforts.

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

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Is It a Nightmare of Night Terror? Everyone has had nightmares before. If your child wakes up crying and scared, it is usually because they dreamed about a monster or something scary. Not everyone though has experienced night terrors. A night terror is entirely different from a nightmare, so let’s discuss the differences. A nightmare is during Rapid Eye Movement (REM) stage of sleep, which is a light stage of sleep. This is why if scared enough, a person can wake up from these and recall most of what occurred in the dream/nightmare. A night terror occurs during the deep sleep, so the child is not awake during the outbursts and occurrences of a night terror. The deepest stage of sleep usually occurs 2-3 hours after falling asleep. Many times, a night terror occurs if there is a fast transition between REM sleep and deep sleep. This transition is normally smooth so no one knows the transition is happeneing. However, if it is too fast, which most often occurs when a child

is overtired, sick, or stressed, it can frighten a child and cause these lashing outs. Sometimes a night terror can seem like a nightmare at first, so let’s identify some distinguishing characteristics of a night terror. • A night terror usually occurs in children 3-12 years old (however can be seen as early as 1 year old) • A night terror can last up to 15-30 minutes • A child will suddenly scream, sit straight up, open their eyes, and/or start thrashing around and hitting during a night terror • If woken from a night terror, the child is confused and does not know anything happened and cannot recall any dream or anything that made them scared • Those with night terrors are more likely to sleepwalk and sleeptalk later in life Night terrors only occur in about 5% of children, and are a little more common in boys than in girls. Some of the cries can seem realistic and especially if your child’s eyes are open,

it is hard to tell what is happening at first. So trying to ask your child to say who you are is a good way to tell if they are really awake from a nightmare or still asleep having a night terror. If a child is woken from a night terror, it can take a long time for them to return to sleep, so ideally if the child and everyone else is safe and free from risk of harm, then it is best to not wake them and wait for them to finish and lay back down on their own. Preventing night terrors is best done by having good sleep hygiene. This means having a regular bedtime routine, limiting caffeine during the day, and ensuring enough sleep during a 24 hour period. 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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Bay Bites Food-Truck Festival

Hosted by Mobile Baykeeper's Young Advisory Council (YAC) leadership committee, Bay Bites is an annual foodtruck festival benefiting our work for clean water, clean air, and healthy communities. On July 22, from 5 to 9 pm, enjoy delicious food from the area's best local food trucks, craft beer and wine, live music, lawn games, and a variety of kids entertainment options on the beautiful riverfront of Downtown Mobile. Tickets are $15 for entry and two drinks, or $10 for entry only. This year, we're offering a ticket level that gives you a discount on a Mobile Baykeeper membership. Mobile Baykeeper memberships usually start at $20 but with the purchase of a Bay Bites ticket we are offering a discounted $15 membership AND as a reward for becoming a member you will receive three entries into a sponsored giveaway for several prizes. Stay tuned to www.mobilebaykeeper.org/baybites for more information.

8th Annual Kid’s Day

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce presents the 8th Annual Kid’s Day on July 31 from 11 AM-1 PM. This FREE Drive-Thru event will be held at the Tillman's Corner Community Center. Children from the ages of 4-12 can participate in the many activities with an interactive Bingo Card given at registration. Each school aged child will receive a hotdog, snow cone, cotton candy and book bag filled with school supplies. The first 1,000 kids will receive book bags. There will also be a Grand Prize Giveaway at the end of the day. Wear your favorite Disney outfit and come join in on the fun!

Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament

Alabama’s 16th annual sales tax holiday for schoolrelated items begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 16, 2021, and ends at midnight Sunday, July 18, 2021, giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, books and clothing free of the state’s 4% sales or use tax.

Mobile Area Children's Charity Expo

Have you ever wondered what charities are in Mobile that help children, or do you want to volunteer to help a charity but don't know how to get involved? Come join us for the inaugural MACC Expo. The Mobile Area Children's Charity Expo (MACC Expo) will be a oneday event on Dauphin Island held on July 10 from 2:00 PM-4:00 PM during the Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament. The purpose of the MACC Expo is to increase awareness of the various charitable organizations and events throughout Mobile County whose goal is to help Mobile area children/youth/families. This event is free to both charities and the public.

The Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament is designed to bring families together and encourage sportsmanship. The tournament takes place on the Saturday, July 10. It is for children 15 years and younger and it typically attracts more than 1,500 young anglers. The one-day event features 31 categories with prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes in all categories. One Master Angler is awarded. All participants receive a certificate. All proceeds benefit the Mobile Jaycees Children’s Christmas Shopping Tour. For more information, please visit adsfr.com/rmyat/. Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday

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Christmas Boutique Bash in July

Christmas will be here before you know it and Christmas Boutique Bash will help you get a head start on all of your shopping July 23 and 24 at The Grounds in Mobile. Attendees can enjoy food trucks, shopping with many boutiques from the Mobile area, photos with Santa for the littles, and so much more all while supporting Whatever Ministry! Are you in need of a shopping trip with your besties? Join us during our Girls Night Out for a stroller-free, husbandfree, and stress-free shopping time as you shop with your gals. Vendors will have special discounts for you as we serve you drinks and snacks. Plus we will have several prizes and giveaways throughout the shopping time. Girls Night Out is Friday, July 23, 6PM-9PM, $20 Ticket. Santa is coming to town early to check on your kiddos. Bring them to snap a picture and join us for shopping with all of our great vendors. Several dance teams will be performing as you shop and other exciting entertainment will keep you entertained for hours. Join us for a family friendly day to get your Christmas shopping complete. General Admission is Saturday, July 24, 10AM-3PM, $5 Ticket. To purchase tickets or for more information visit https://www.whateverministry.com/christmas-in-july.

Dauphin Street Vault 2021

We are excited to announce that DSV2021 is happening July 17, 2021! The Dauphin Street Vault (DSV) is a not-forprofit grassroots event to raise awareness for the pole vault and create an opportunity for spectators to see the event up close. Whether you're competing in the event or just watching, you'll enjoy the block party atmosphere. Registration is now open at www. dauphinstreetvault.org.

Mobile's 4th of July Celebration

Plan to spend your July 4th in downtown Mobile! Enjoy a fantastic fireworks show and music at Cooper Riverside Park while celebrating the birth of our nation. Activities will begin at 4:00 PM and include games for kids, cornhole, food trucks, bar services/ adult beverages provided by LIT Cigar Lounge, music by DJ Freddie Fingaz, and free swag stations! We encourage everyone to bring chairs/ blankets. Pops Symphonic Band will play 7:00-9:00 and Fireworks to begin at approximately 9:00 PM.

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Autauga County Schools

Dunbar Magnet School Honor Society Inductees Congratulations to Dunbar Magnet School of Creative and Performing Arts National Junior Honor Society inductees for the 2020-2021 school year! There was a total of 80 scholars that were in-person and virtual learners. We are looking forward to next year and the succession of our accomplishments.

Davidson HS Student Places in International Science and Engineering Fair

Dakota Perry of Davidson High School recently placed in the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair! Her project -- Reduction of Tsunami Impacts on Coastal Inhabitants and Infrastructure by Armoring Shorelines Using Hydrodynamics – tested the effectiveness of different barrier designs against the storm surge created by a tsunami and won 4th place in the Engineering Mechanics category. Perry was eligible to participate in the international competition, which was conducted virtually, after placing in the Mobile Regional Science and Engineering Fair at the University of South Alabama.

Two MCPSS Students Receive Red Ribbon Leadership Scholarships

Two members of Mobile County Public Schools’ Class of 2021 recently received Red Ribbon Leadership Scholarships from the Drug Education Council. Pictured here with MCPSS Superintendent Chresal D. Threadgill are (left) Ava Sprinkle from Mary G. Montgomery High and (right) Alshawnta Leatherwood from Theodore High. The scholarships were awarded in recognition of community service projects done during Red Ribbon Week, an event held every fall to promote the importance of a healthy, drug-free lifestyle for young people. Leatherwood’s project was called “Love Week,” an effort to bring a little sunshine to fellow students, teachers and members of the community during the pandemic. Sprinkle organized activities and fundraisers to benefit the Miracle League of West Mobile, Schmidt Family Park, a baseball field and playground being constructed in west Mobile for kids with special needs. Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

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Cottage Hill Celebrates K5 Graduation

Graduation is a very special time in every student’s life. In May, the CHCA Kindergarten classes were able to experience this firsthand! Each student sang with a smile, walked across the stage with excitement, and recited their memorized Bible verses with pride. What a joy it is to see the Warrior students growing and ready to move onto the next level in their education! Congratulations to the future Class of 2033!

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St. Dominic Catholic School Summer Camp

St. Dominic Catholic School's Summer Camp is off to a great start! Pictured are Caleb and Caiden Hall on their first day of Camp Little Eagles. We are looking forward to a FUN Summer!

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Hutchens ES Teacher Named District 1 Elementary Teacher of the Year

Julie Neidhardt of Hutchens Elementary has been named the Alabama State Board of Education's District I Elementary Teacher of the Year! "This is quite an honor, to be selected over so many other elementary teachers who are so qualified," said Neidhardt, who is now among 16 finalists for the Alabama Teacher of the Year award. "There are so many good teachers out there. I am very honored and very humbled." Neidhardt, Mobile County Public Schools' 2021 Elementary Teacher of the Year, is a National Board Certified Teacher and a past winner of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Education. An educator in Mobile County Public Schools for 22 years, she established the N.E.S.T. (Nurturing Engineering, Science, and Technology) lab at Hutchens, where she leads 574 kindergartners through second-graders in collaborative science lessons. Students receive inquiry-based instruction and participate in hands-on science experiments designed to empower them in their learning.

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

Interested parents are invited to visit our school and learn about our many excellent academic programs. Contact us today to schedule a tour. 6300 McKenna Drive • Mobile, Alabama 36608 • school. corpuschristiparish.com

251.342.5474 • school@CCSCatholic.com 7/15/2021 4:02 PM

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UMS-Wright Names Mrs. Aldridge Marks as Lower School Principal

UMS-Wright is pleased to announce the hiring of a new Lower School Principal, Mrs. Aldridge Marks. Mrs. Marks has served our school effectively as interim principal since early March. She has demonstrated a highly effective skill set in the areas of improving teaching and learning, and she is focused on the growth of students and staff. She possesses an ability to communicate and connect with parents, students, and staff as a keen listener and problem solver. The UMSWright family has great confidence in her ability as a leader and communicator, and her vision for our Lower School aligns with the mission of UMS-Wright. She has proven her value as a member of our leadership team, and we are confident she will continue to lead our students and staff to achieve the highest goals in life. 9

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Autauga County Schools

Princesses of Prichard Prep

What better way to end the school year than with a princess party? On the last day of school, our PreK-4 students walked the halls as the princesses of Prichard Prep and celebrated their first year as PPS Eagles in true princess fashion... with a tea party!

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

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St. Luke’s Student Receives Bryant-Jordan Scholarship

St. Luke’s Whitney Novak had a senior year to remember! Whitney was a multi-sport athlete during her time as a wildcat. She was a three-year starter on the successful volleyball team and a 5-year starter on the basketball team going to the Final Four three times. She made the 2021 All-Coastal Basketball First Team. As soon as she left the Basketball Final-Four, she immediately picked up with the tennis team. St. Luke’s won the AHSAA Class 1A-3A girls state championship this year and Whitney won state titles in No. 3 singles and No. 2 doubles. She decided to join the soccer team “just for fun” when not on the tennis court. Also this year, Whitney was named the Bryant-Jordan Scholarship Award Winner and graduated from St. Luke’s with a 4.1 GPA. In the Fall, Whitney will play basketball at Millsaps College. We are proud of the exemplary way that Whitney represented St. Luke’s as a student and an athlete.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

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ASMS Senior Named Only Male U.S. Presidential Scholar in Alabama

Graduating from the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) is not the only thing senior Gregory Li is celebrating. U.S. Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona announced the selection of Gregory Li of Spanish Fort as a 2021 U.S. Presidential Scholar. Li is one of just two recipients in the entire state of Alabama. Li is also one of just 161 outstanding American high school seniors selected as a U.S. Presidential Scholars for demonstration of outstanding academic achievement, artistic excellence, technical expertise, leadership, citizenship, service, and contribution to school and community. When asked what this recognition means to him, Li described, “This honor reminds me of the importance of not only learning and appreciating our vast base of knowledge but also of the inherent responsibility of students, like us, to understand that we can help make progress and give back to our communities. I remain wholeheartedly grateful to the teachers and mentors who have helped shape my experience at ASMS and supported their students compassionately.” During his time at ASMS, Li was chosen as 1 of just 84 students from 16 countries who convened for a prestigious summer academic research program -- the Center for Excellence in Education’s Research Science Institute (RSI), jointly sponsored with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Li has presented his mentored research on quantum logic and graph theory at national conferences such as the Joint Mathematics Meetings (JMM) and the National Conference of Undergraduate Research (NCUR). Li has also qualified for the USA Junior Mathematical Olympiad (USAJMO) and the United States Physics Olympiad (USAPhO) as well as being named a National Merit $2500 Scholarship winner through his performance on the Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®). Li will attend Harvard College, the undergraduate college of Harvard University, starting in fall of 2021. The Presidential Scholars Class of 2021 will be recognized for their outstanding achievement this summer.

Little Flower Drama Club Presents “Creature Features”

Ms. Mallory Hill has mentored the Drama Club for middle school students at Little Flower Catholic School. After eight weeks of planning and hours of practice, the club put on a production called "Creature Features", a story that encourages people to not only accept their differences but to see them as assets. Congratulations to Ms. Hill and all the cast for a great show.

Let Read Write help you! Read Write offers: Targeted 1-on-1 instruction Consultations Testing

(251) 287-1822 mobileoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com 11

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Autauga County Schools

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Congratulates the Class of 2021

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Please join with us in congratulating the Class of 2021 for finishing out their high school careers in May with their commencement ceremony! During the ceremony, the Seniors were charged by their peers and a CHCA Class of 2002 alumnus to not forget where they came from but to also do their best and trust the Lord in where they are going. It has been a blessing to watch the Class of 2021 lead well throughout a school year that has looked like no other. CHCA is very proud of these Seniors and are praying for them all as they take the steps in the journey the Lord has laid out for their lives. Congratulations to the Cottage Hill Christian Academy Class of 2021!

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

Prichard Prep 5th Grade Graduates

We would like to congratulate the PPS class of 2021 for their recent graduation! We are very proud of this class and all their accomplishments! Among this group are Student Government Association officers, National Elementary Honor Society Members, Honor Roll Students, and many talented athletes and musicians! Congratulations students!

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

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St. Dominic Student Receives William Skoneki Scholarship

Congratulations to St. Dominic Catholic School's graduating eighth grader, Noah Huynh, who received The William Skoneki Scholarship awarded for the highest grade point average during the middle school years. Noah was also recognized for his years with the National Junior Honor Society, being selected by McGill Toolen as a St. Thomas Aquinas Scholar, and Outstanding Achievement in Social Studies.

Covenant Christian Principal Retires

After 38 years of faithful service to Covenant Christian School, Mr. Keith Currie has retired as Principal. Under Currie's leadership, CCS has grown and thrived for nearly 40 years. Currie's passion for CCS and his love for students has never subsided and he will be missed.

Lady Warriors Field House Under Construction at Davidson HS

The first ever Lady Warriors Field House is under construction at Davidson High School. Student athletes returning this fall will be able to enjoy this newly remodeled portion of our gymnasium. Additionally, an air rifle range will be built on campus in the summer of 2021.

St. Pius X Catholic School Holds Multicultural Goodbye

St. Pius X Catholic School held a multicultural good-bye on the last full day of the 2020-2021 school year! Students and teachers from each grade level selected a country and made signs and goodie bags for our parents and grandparents to welcome them as they drove through campus. Thank you to our Saint Pius X school family for making this unusual school year one filled with love, community, faith, knowledge and tremendous growth. Go Cardinals!

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Hillcrest@Grelot • Register for Fall @ debbiesdance.com Preschool Ages 2-5 • Ballet • Pointe • Tap • Jazz • Tumbling • Contemporary • Hip Hop 13

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Autauga County Schools

Lighthouse Baptist Academy Summer Day Camp

Summer Day Camp at Lighthouse Baptist Academy is a fantastic way for students to stay involved over the summer months. The day camp is filled with weekly themes, arts and crafts, Bible lessons, structured playtime activities, and weekly field trips. The kindergarten and the elementary students always look forward to this yearly fun-filled summer program!

St. Ignatius Lifesaver Ambassadors

St. Ignatius is proud to recognize the 2021-2022 Lifesaver Ambassadors who will represent the school for the upcoming school year. We are so proud of this group of incoming 8th grade students who are leading the way for the ProLife cause on our campus. Pictured: Mary Fran Rigrish, Clay Partridge, James King, Barrett Porter, Bear Zeidan, Charlie Kidder, Sam Hecker, Mae LaCour. Not Pictured: Thomas Beckmann, Andin Choquette, Sam Meador, Cate Vulevich, Bryce Ward and Patrick Weems.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

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Corpus Christi Catholic Celebrates End of School Year Hawaiian Style

ASMS's Computer Science Instructors Host Cybercamp

Alabama School of Math and Science has had an exciting start to summer with one of their many fun and educational virtual camps. Virtual Cyperpatriots Cybercamp was led by one of ASMS's Computer Science instructors who was recently named Teach Cyber’s National CyberSecurity Teacher of the Year. The camp is part of the National Youth Cyber Defense Program. Campers were immersed in a fun and challenging world of cybersecurity principles, concepts & programming, with a CyberPatriot competition held on the last day! For more info on ASMS camps: www.asms.net.

The students at Corpus Christi Catholic School were greeted by Champ, the school mascot, on the last day of school. He was celebrating the end of the school year in Hawaiian style, and he was happy to take pictures with students. Champ is pictured with Ann Marie Rogers, Aaron Harris, Rhett Rogers, and Will Miller.

Eichold-Mertz Named a Top 25 Fundraising School for American Heart Association

Eichold-Mertz Magnet School of Math Science & Technology was named a Top 25 fundraising school in the AL/FL Gulf Coast region for the American Heart Association during the 2020-2021 school year. The school raised $9,195.75, which is a new school record! Eichold-Mertz ranked #12 out of nearly 330 schools in the region and #5 in the district.

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Autauga County Schools

E.R. Dickson’s Young Authors

Ten E.R. Dickson 3rd Grade students, ten 4th Grade students, and ten 5th Grade students entered their writings to be published in the Metro-Mobile Literacy Council’s 2020-2021 Young Authors’ Anthology. The 3rd grade students were Retaj Al’Mahrouqi, Emma Brunson, Araf Khandokar, Bailey Land, Za’Caree McBride, Koby Morris, Kamirah Muhammad, Caylee Seals, Hung Spencer, and Camden Tyus. The 4th grade students were Via-Danielli Cruz, Harry Dwyer, Hope Hatcher, Nicholas Lockette, Caroline Mendoza, Binh Nguyen, Logan Rigsby, Matthew Russell, Bella Salazar Sage, and Joyce Williams. The 5th Grade students were Mallory Crockett, Bryson Dunbar, Jacob Flores, Jayda Haley, Kassidy Hughes, McKenzie Lee, Keely McBryde, Frederick Patterson, Daniel Rembert, and Chloe Seals. Congratulations to these young authors!

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

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Little Flower Planning Session

Old Shell Students Place in Architecture Contest

Father John Lynes, pastor of Little Flower Catholic Church, joins Little Flower principal, Alesa Weiskopf, and Jennifer Tolbert, Director of Advancement for Catholic Schools, in setting plans for the upcoming school year. The three work in collaboration throughout the year to keep the school running in tip-top shape, maintaining the family atmosphere that the school is famous for.

Jack Hoyle, a student at Old Shell Road Magnet School, won 1st place for 5th grade, Charlotte Erdman won 2nd place for 2nd grade, and Haidyn Inabnett won 2nd place for 2nd grade in the dreamARCHITECTURE 2021: Draw Your Dream Restaurant contest for the Mobile and Baldwin County areas. The art contest is sponsored annually by Alabama Center for Architecture.

St. Luke Track & Field Students Place in Top 5

The St. Luke’s Track & Field Team had quite a few students medal and others placed in the top 5! Congratulations to Dylan Hale (1st Place Medal - Javelin), Jake Keesee (2nd Place Medal - Shot Put), and Maddie Hurt (3rd Place Medal - Shot Put).

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St. Dominic Welcomes New Families

St. Dominic Catholic School is very excited to welcome many new families to our campus for the upcoming school year! Our buddy families are keeping busy delivering welcome signs throughout the summer. We welcome them to the St. Dominic School family. Go Eagles! Pictured is Kara Cain, a rising seventh grade student.

Autauga County Schools

Davidson Drama Students Perform “One Word Macbeth”

Davidson High School’s Warrior Theatre performed “One Word Macbeth” on the front lawn of DHS in April. After having their production of “Little Shop of Horrors” cancelled in the spring of 2020, students were led by DHS theater instructor, Mr. French, in their preparation for spring of 2021. After having the April 24th performance cancelled due to rain, students were thrilled to finally perform on April 25.

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St. Paul's Organizes School Supply and Backpack Collection

As the school year ended students at St. Paul's Episcopal School cleaned out their lockers and book bags. The Community Service department collected used but usable school supplies. In late July the items will be donated to a local organization helping needy children get supplies for the upcoming school year. Working with Cave Ministries, St. Paul's also organized a school-wide used backpack collection at the end of the school year. The school collected almost 100 backpacks which were delivered to Cave Ministries on Wednesday, May 26th. The backpacks will be filled with items and donated to the homeless in the Mobile area.

St. Mary Parish Feast of Corpus Christi Celebration!

St. Mary Parish hosted the Feast of Corpus Celebration including a beautiful procession from St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church to St. Mary Catholic Church following Mass. First communicants were invited to process and drop rose petals to lead the way through historic Midtown! 19

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Autauga County Schools

St. Luke Bell Tradition

St. Paul's Donates Over 260 Pounds of Pop Tabs to Ronald McDonald House

When St. Luke’s University Campus was the Julius T. Wright School for Girls, Mr. Gus Hamner, Headmaster, would walk through the halls ringing his bell. This tradition signaled that the year was officially over and students would exit their classrooms and fall in behind him as they paraded to The Quad for ice cream. Mr. Hamner donated that bell to St. Luke’s with the request that the Head of School continue this tradition. In May of 2010, Mr. Palmer Kennedy did just that. And every year since (with the exception of 2020 - because of Covid) we have honored that request.

St. Paul's teacher, Donna Mackin, spearheaded the annual pop tab collection with the Sixth Grade Rutledge Fellows to benefit our local Ronald McDonald House. Students in grades 3-6 have been competing all year to collect the most tabs. The winner was the fourth grade who collected over 170 pounds of the grand total of 267 pounds!

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Junior Achievement 2021 Business Plan Challenge Winners

Congratulations to these Mobile County High School students who made it into the finals of our annual Business Plan Challenge held on April 29, 2021. These students learned about Entrepreneurship by pitching their own ideas to a panel of local business leaders who served as judges. One of the teachers of these students said, “These competitions not only give students experience in researching and crafting a business plan, but also the confidence to present it and the opportunity to meet and learn from successful businesspeople who can offer feedback.” Pictured are this year’s winners: Mary G. Montgomery Students from left to right: Grace Nelson- Honorable Mention and $100 winner, Talia Turner- 2nd place and $500 winner, and Christopher Thornton-1st place, $1000 winner and People’s Choice Winner of a Regions’ Bank bicycle. 2nd photo, Baker Student Jalen Bucknell-3rd place and $250 winner. Not pictured: Brandon Cooper- Honorable Mention and $100 winner.

Fr. Victor Ingalls Visits Heart of Mary Catholic School

On May 21st, Fr. Victor Ingalls, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese, started our day with a beautiful Mass. We celebrated the feast of Pentecost and welcomed the Holy Spirit into our hearts. 7th grader Elizabeth Portis, under the direction of Ms. Shepherd, performed a moving spiritual dance to begin the Mass. We had a wonderful day with Fr. Victor and enjoyed having him join us for Field Day! 21

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Autauga County Schools

St. Mary Catholic Cunningham Award Recipients

St. Mary Catholic honored two students with the Rev. Msgr. Peter J. Cunningham Award. This honor was created by the St. Mary Parish Knights of Columbus Council to recognize eighth grade students who represent the Model Christian ideals of service, academics, and kindness to others. This year's recipients are Sarah Beth Dudley and Joseph McCarron. The awards were presented at the May 26 Completion Mass and Ceremony for St. Mary Catholic School 8th Grade Classes. Pictured: St. Mary Principal, Debbie Ollis, Joseph McCarron, Sara Beth Dudley and St. Mary Pastor, Father Stephen Vrazel.

McGill-Toolen Student Named Mobile County DYW

Congratulations to McGill-Toolen Catholic rising senior Grace Greenwood, Mobile County’s Distinguished Young Woman for the Class of 2022!

The St. Paul's Dawson Faculty Excellence Award

The St. Paul's Dawson Faculty Excellence Award is given to a deserving faculty member in recognition of teaching excellence. The 2021 Dawson Faculty Excellence Award recipient is the lower school librarian, Mrs. Kim McDonald. Mrs. McDonald is completing her 21st year at St. Paul's and she was chosen for her leadership through virtual learning at the Lower School!

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St. Pius X Catholic School Class of 2021

Congratulations to the Saint Pius X Catholic School Class of 2021! We are so very proud of each one of you, and know you will go on to do great things. The celebration of our 8th graders began with a beautiful Mass followed by brunch with family and friends. In his homily, Father Savoie spoke to our graduates about being ready to grow, carrying their dignity and God’s infinite love with them. We are so excited to watch these young men and women grow into the wonderful young adults God is calling them to be.

Davidson HS Varsity Boys Soccer Places 2nd in State Championship

Congratulations to the Davidson High School Varsity Boys Soccer team! They competed in the state championship on May 8. They played against the #1 ranked team, Spain Park, and came up short with a final score of 2-1. The team finished overall with a 22-4-1 record. Congratulations, Coach DeLange and team! Jacob Nelson, Riley Wilson, Jonah deLange, Jimmy Lopez, Niyonizigiye Claude, Amadou Boube, Baronyi Kengeye, Bryan Rojo Fuentes, Kevin Dinh, Drew McCarthy, Juan Carcamo Dal Zotto, Christoper Massey, Kidomo Albert, Stan Blejwas, Edy Gael, Drizzt Htoon, Tommy Dinh, Chase Travis, Javier Palau, Ian Westerfield.

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Davidson Instructor Receives Golden Apple Award

Davidson High School’s culinary instructor, Rachel Baxter, was recognized by WKRG with the Golden Apple award. Mrs. Baxter is one of the many treasured career tech teachers at DHS. Under her guidance, one of Mrs. Baxter’s students, Gharam Foqahaa, won the Bishop State Virtual Cooking Competition this past spring.

E.R. Dickson ES Celebrates CLAS Banner School Designation

E.R. Dickson Elementary held a celebration recently in recognition of its designation as a CLAS Banner School. It is one of only eight schools in the state to receive the award from the Council for Leaders in Alabama schools, which recognizes schools with programs worthy of serving as models for other schools throughout the state. E.R. Dickson was recognized for its L.E.A.D.ers of Technology program, which allows students to build strong foundations in STEM literacy, preparing them to be future leaders in technology and STEM-related fields. E.R. Dickson is also one of five Mobile County Public Schools among the 32 statewide that were named CLAS Schools of Distinction. The others are Gilliard and Hutchens elementary schools; Clark-Shaw School of Math, Science and Technology; and Williamson High School and Middle Grades Preparatory Academy.

The St. Mary Mustang Walk Tradition!

St. Mary Catholic welcomed the St. Mary Class of 2017, now high school graduates of the class of 2021 for the annual Mustang Walk! Students enjoyed a light lunch, walked through their old hallways and were greeted on Thompson Field by all students, faculty and staff of St. Mary!

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Autauga County Schools

Boating Physics at St. Luke’s

After studying a unit on Archimedes' Principle and buoyancy, St. Luke's Physics classes tested their knowledge by building their very own cardboard boats. They were given cardboard, packing tape, & one week to complete their boats. They then tested them out by seeing how long they could stay afloat. It was a beautiful day for a boat ride!

Heart of Mary Catholic School Crowning

On May 25th, Heart of Mary Catholic School honored Mary as the mother of Jesus and the namesake of our beloved school. 7th grader Travis Shinn and 1st grader Gabrielle Williams, crowned Mary. Music was provided by Derrick Coleman, and 7th grader Elizabeth Portis, under the direction of Mrs. Shepherd, performed a praise dance. Each grade offered up a special intention, and we prayed a decade of the Rosary for these intentions and for our Blessed Mother, Mary.

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Four St. Luke’s Students Make All-Star Teams

St. Luke's is sending 4 students to the North-South All-Star competition. Congrats to Kevin Ori (soccer), Ella Bryant (volleyball), Anna Marie Bentley (tennis) and Ricky Hernandez-Sexton (soccer) for making the AHSAA North-South All-Star Team Rosters.

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

St. Pius Student Named NASA Centerpiece Contest Winner

McGill-Toolen Class of ‘21 Graduation Ceremony

Congratulations to St. Pius X 7th grader, Payton Lehocky, the NASA Infinity Science Center 2020 Gala centerpiece contest winner! Students created space themed centerpieces for the Gala, and the winning prize was a signed lithograph of Apollo 13 astronaut, Fred Haise. Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

McGill-Toolen Catholic Class of 2021 valedictorian Henry Stephens gave a moving speech at the graduation ceremony held at Lipscomb Field, Friday, May 21. Henry will be attending Auburn University in the fall. 24

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McGill-Toolen Girls Golf Team Wins State Championship

Congratulations to the McT Girls Golf team, 2021 6A State Champions! Junior Laura Burch was the Low Scorer of the tournament. Pictured left to right: Jordyn Martin, Lane Gottlieb, Meghan Stein and Laura Burch.

Congratulations to the UMS-Wright Class of 2021!

On May 27, 105 students became alumni when they concluded the Commencement Exercises with the ceremonial tossing of bouquets and caps into the air. 40% of the class accumulated Weighted Grade Point Averages higher than 4.0, and members of the class were offered $7.7 million in meritbased scholarships. Co-curricular achievements included 16 state championships in athletics along with Superior Ratings earned by 11 senior band students at the Alabama Band Association’s yearly competition. 4 student-athletes will play collegiately while 3 student-musicians will play in college bands. The entire UMS-Wright family wishes the members of the Class of 2021 the best as they begin their journeys outside the gates of our campus.

CHCA Names New Head of School

Cottage Hill Christian Academy is pleased to announce our new Head of School Mr. Chris Brazell! This decision is backed by CHCA Leadership and the CHCA School Committee. Mr. Brazell has faithfully served in many roles during his twenty years of service to the Cottage Hill Christian Academy school community; most recently as Athletic Director, Varsity Football Coach, and Varsity Baseball Coach. Brazell began his career at Cottage Hill Christian Academy in 2001-2002 academic year serving as an assistant coach and then spent 13 years in the classroom as a social science teacher. In 2013 he was named Athletic Director and has continued to serve as a member of the leadership team in various capacities including Dean of Students at the West Campus.

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Autauga County Schools

St. Mary Catholic 8th Grade Class of 2021!

St. Mary Catholic School held the 8th Grade Completion Mass and Ceremony Wednesday, May 26 in St. Mary Catholic Church. Honors were given to several students reflecting their middle school years including the Rev. Msgr. Peter J. Cunningham Awards to Sarah Beth Dudley and Joseph McCarron; Marian Academic Award Medals to Sarah Beth Dudley, Leah Feirman, Grace Salmon, Anna Catherine Thompson, and Chloe Reece; and to students who maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout middle school including Michael Blanchette, Grayson Brower, Celie Frances Dean, Sarah Beth Dudley, Maggie O'Donnell, Annie Martorana, Miles McLendon, Joseph McCarron, Finn Montague, Natalie Hewitt, Leah Grace Feirman, Grace Salmon, Chloe Reece, Gabe Evans, Dubs Wilson, William Husting, Michael Thomas Talbott, Worth Pape, Kate Kilpatrick, and Dempsey Rountree.

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Raising Butterflies at Little Flower

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Third and fourth graders at Little Flower Catholic School raised butterflies in the classroom. They watched the development of Monarch butterflies for four weeks as they fed them daily on milkweed, the Monarch’s favorite treat. When the butterflies were fully grown, the students released them on the school grounds.

Recognizing Davidson High School Athletes

Davidson High School’s Iyana Johnson was recognized as the Mobile Optimist Club’s Class 7A Female Track and Field Athlete of the Year during a ceremony on May 13. Iyana was the state champion in the triple jump, 2nd in shotput, and 6th in long jump. DHS athlete Joshua Graham was also a state champion in triple jump, 8th in long jump, and 9th in the 300 hurdles. Asa Moncrief, Tremaine Barnes, and Mose Piper also placed in their respective categories at the 7A state championship.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

Williamson Middle Grades Preparatory Academy Presents Coding Showcase

Students at Williamson Middle Grades Preparatory Academy put on a Coding Showcase recently to display what they’ve learned in a coding project developed through a partnership between Mobile County Public Schools and the University of South Alabama. The project, which began in January and includes about 25 students, was made possible through a USA Social Justice Initiative Grant procured by USA’s College of Education and Professional Studies. The students, who worked regularly in the program with USA Assistant Professor Dr. Shenghua Zha, demonstrated the capabilities of the robotic vehicles they’ve coded, including variable speeds and even music. Williamson mathematics teacher Dr. Diana Nelson said the project showed students how mathematics is used in coding and its real-world applications. “The students were allowed to be creative with it and use their imaginations,” she said. “They stepped up to the challenge to not only master it, but show they knew more than we thought they knew.” Many Mobile County Public Schools have robotics programs, with middle and high school programs competing regularly in Jubilee BEST or VEX robotics competitions. www.mobilebayparents.com

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Autauga County Schools

Corpus Christi 8th Grade President’s Award Recipients

The 2020 - 2021 school year was one with many challenges and uncertainty, but the 8th-grade students at Corpus Christi Catholic School celebrated their graduation with joy and excitement! The students who excelled academically were recognized during the graduation Mass. Congratulations to the following students for earning the President's Award for Educational Excellence: President's Award for Educational Excellence - Gold. This award recognizes academic success in the classroom. Students have a GPA of 3.6 or higher and scored in the 90% percentile or higher in the math or the English/reading section on the IOWA exams. Congratulations to: Leon Pham, William Porr, Parker Overstreet, Ben Johnson, Tyler Mullen, Parker Fields, Bridget Foster, Ella Nelson, Ethan Stokes, Kathlene Walker, Clarie Watson, and Josef Wittendorfer. President's Award for Educational Excellence Silver. This award recognizes academic success in the classroom. Students have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and scored in the 80% percentile or higher in the math or the English/reading section on the IOWA exams. Congratulations to: Jilian Manas, Natalie Fisher, Maggie Butcher, Haley Cummings, Annabel Holbrook, Cade Nelson, Ethan O'Brien, Declan Youkey, and Jackson West.

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Extra Money as a Mom

When my youngest child entered first grade, the questions began. “Are you going back to work now that your kids are in school all day?” “What will you do for six hours when your kids are in school?” You get the idea. After correcting the misinformation—it is not really six hours when you factor in the varying bus schedules—I politely let them know that I wasn’t concerned about how I would occupy my time. I was busy volunteering at the school and doing other household tasks, but I also wanted to earn some extra money to help offset the high cost of college tuition. More importantly, I wanted flexibility. So I began freelance writing for different publications. Over time, my income has increased, and I’m hoping to save enough to pay for at least one of my kids’ college educations. If freelance writing isn’t your thing, or even if it is and you want to add another job, here are some ways you can earn extra cash while remaining a stay-at-home mom like me. Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

By Cheryl Maguire 28

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1- Babysitter or nanny

Some moms I know tend other kids while watching their own. If you are unable to find a job through friends and family, try looking on websites such as Sittercity, Care.com, or UrbanSitter. Pay range: $11–18 per hour

2- Customer service rep

up your own store. Most people sell crafts, jewelry, clothing, home décor, or vintage items. I bought a graphic design for my website on Etsy, though, so you are not limited to those categories. Etsy charges a $.20 listing fee, a 5% transaction fee, and 3% + $.25 payment fee.

Pay range: The range varies, but one website claims that a shop owner earns $70k per month!

My friend used to provide customer service from her house through Liveops. She was able to create her own flexible hours by signing up for time blocks. She started taking calls for infomercials, then auto claims for Allstate and orders for Pizza Hut. The only cost to her was a dedicated phone line, which was $22 per month.

5- Fitness instructor

3- Delivery person

Pay range: $10-$30 per hour, depending on the gym and class taught. Plus, most gyms offer free membership to their instructors. Some offer free childcare while you are teaching.

Pay range: $10–20 per hour

A recent article in Money Magazine described the job of being an Amazon delivery person through Amazon Flex. Drivers must use their own car and an app to select a block of time to deliver packages. Rates vary by state and time of year; during Christmas you can receive higher rates. Pay range: $18–25 per hour

4- Etsy shop owner

Etsy is a website where you can set

A few of my friends are fitness instructors, such as spin, body pump, or TRX teachers. These require taking certification tests that can cost around $300. Then you need to recertify every two years, which costs roughly $100. My friends enjoy the flexibility of the job and the fact that they get paid to work out.

6- Online transcriptionist

There are several companies that will hire you to work from home transcribing audio speech to written documents. The audio could be from a doctor, lawyer, court hearing, or freelance writer. Some companies don’t require any experience. There are transcription courses available for a

fee. Some transcription companies are Rev, Scribie, and CrowdSurf.

Pay range: The Rev website states the average earning is $245 per month.

7- Paid focus group participant Market research companies pay focus groups for their reactions to or opinions of their products. Usually, group members participate for one to two hours. To participate in focus groups, you can sign up with companies such as WatchLab, User Interviews or FocusGroup.

Pay range: $100–400 per group.

8- Pet sitter

A friend of mine started a pet-sitting business to board dogs in her house five years ago. She used the website Rover to set up her rate and availability. In addition to boarding pets, you can also walk dogs or watch pets and the owner’s house. The Rover website is not limited to dogs. Rover takes 20% of whatever fees you earn.

Pay range: Set your own rates. My friend earns $40 per night per dog and sometimes has three dogs per week, or $840 per week minus the Rover fee. The website states you can earn up to $1000 per month.

9- Rent out your house for a movie set You can list your house for free on

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the Set Scouter website to rent out for a movie or TV show. Even though I live in the Northeast (not remotely close to Hollywood), over ten different movies have been filmed in towns near me recently. I haven’t been lucky enough to have my house selected yet, but you never know when Hollywood might come knocking. Pay range: $250–1,000 per day

10- Fashion stylist

Stitch Fix is a clothing subscription service. The stylists work from home and help other people create stylish outfits based on their budget, personality, and fashion tastes. You need to commit to working 15–30 hours per week. You also must participate in an onsite six-hour training course. Pay range: $14–16 per hour

11- Teach English

There are a few different companies through which you can teach English online from your home. Most of the companies require you to have a college degree and be proficient in the English language. Some of the companies to investigate are VIPKID, Qkids, and Teachaway. Pay range: $15–25 per hour

12- Tasker

TaskRabbit matches you with people who need a task done around their houses such as cleaning, moving, furniture assembly, or home improvement. After you complete the job, you receive payment, minus a 15% TaskRabbit fee.

Pay range: You set the rate; certain skills earn more money.

13- Test Apps or Websites

Userlytics is a website that will match you with an app or website that is in the developmental phase and wants user feedback before it is launched. You will offer your thoughts about the app or website by verbally answering questions. Most projects take 15-20 minutes to complete.

Pay range: Website states the range is anywhere between $5-$90 per tested project.

14- Tutor

You might think you need a teaching degree to be a tutor, but according to Tutors.com, anyone with a high school diploma or GED can be a tutor; you need only complete a tutor training program. Once you are certified, you can set up a free profile at Tutors.com to find jobs. Pay range: $25–80 per hour

15- Umpire or referee

There are many different youth sports that need someone to officiate, such as soccer, softball and baseball, lacrosse, field hockey, and more. Most referees need to attend certification training and complete a background check. Contact your local sports league to find out the requirements. Pay range: $25–50 per hour or per game

You probably won’t get rich doing any of these jobs, but the extra income might help pay for all the added expenses of having children like camp, sports, or college. For me, I enjoy earning a paycheck, but the real benefit is socializing with other people. Being a stay-at-home mom can feel isolating, especially now that my kids are older and no longer at home during the day. I like interacting with other writers and editors, even it is only virtually. Of course, you never know—with that side business of yours, you could end up being the next Martha Stewart one day. A mom can dream, right? MBP

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. You can find her at Twitter @ CherylMaguire05.

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How Girls Are Seeking Approval Online It’s not a law that you have to post a selfie before, during, and after every activity. But for kids, it’s pretty much mandatory. The resulting likes, thumbs-ups, and other ratings all get tallied, both in the stark arithmetic of the Internet and in kids’ own minds. For some -- especially girls -- what starts as a fun way to document and share experiences can turn into an obsession about approval that can wreak havoc on self-image. That kids have been comparing themselves to popular images in traditional media -- and coming up short -- is a well-researched phenomenon. But new studies are just beginning to determine the effects of social media -- which is arguably more immediate and intimate -- on the way kids view themselves. A Common Sense survey called Children, Teens, Media, and Body Image found that many teens who are active online fret about how they’re perceived, and that girls are particularly vulnerable: • 35 percent are worried about people tagging them in unattractive photos. • 27 percent feel stressed about how they look in posted photos. • 22 percent felt bad about themselves if their photos were ignored.

How Kids Get Feedback

You probably know about popular apps such as Instagram and Snapchat. But the specific ways kids use these tools to get -and give -- feedback can be troubling. Here are a few examples: Instagram. The number of followers, likes, and emojis kids can collect gets competitive, with users often begging for them. Instagram “beauty pageants” and other

photo-comparison activities crop up, with losers earning a big red X on their pics. Snapchat. Numerical scores display the total number of sent and received chats. You can view your friends’ scores to keep tabs on who’s racking up the most views. Lipsi. This anonymous question-andanswer app lets kids find out what others think of them. “Am I pretty or ugly?” YouTube videos. Kids -mostly girls -- post videos of themselves asking if other users think they’re pretty or ugly. These videos are typically public, allowing anyone -- from kids at school to random strangers -- to post a comment.

The Good News

Although approval-seeking and selfdoubt continue to plague girls both privately and publicly, there are signs of fatigue. The “no-filter” trend is prompting girls to share their true selves and accept (and even challenge) whatever feedback they receive. Under hashtags such as “uglyselfie,” and “nomakeup” girls post pics of their unadorned selves, funny faces, unretouched images, and “epic fails” (attempts at perfect selfies that went wrong). Given that adolescents are naturally eager for peer validation -- precisely when they begin to use social tools that provide it -- it’s encouraging to see kids having fun with the notion of perfection. As a matter of fact, one of the Common Sense study’s most welcome findings is that social media has the potential to combat unrealistic appearance ideals and stereotypes. And, after all, kids use social media to be, well, social, and constant rejection and pressure is no fun at all. It makes you realize just how powerful social media tools can be. While they foster relationships and engagement -- and can 31

even bolster self-esteem -- they can be both constructive and destructive. That’s why you can’t leave it all up to kids to find their way. Whether your kids are just getting into social media or are seasoned posters, it’s critical to help guide them to use Snapchat, Instagram, and other networking apps for fun and connection and not as fuel for self-doubt.

What You Can Do

Talk about the pictures they post. Experimenting with identity is natural, and it’s very common for kids to adopt provocative stances in cell phone pictures, on their social network pages, and in YouTube videos. But are they doing it only because they think others expect it of them? What pose would they strike if they could do anything they wanted? Ask how feedback makes them feel. Are they stressed out by others’ comments and feedback? Does it make them feel better to be “liked?” Why is external approval important? How do negative comments make them feel? Help them develop a healthy selfimage. Body image is developed early in childhood, and the family environment is very influential on how kids view themselves. Emphasize what the body can do instead of what it looks like. Also, be careful of criticizing your own looks and weight. Rely on role models. Positive role models have an enormous effect on kids. Cultivate relationships with women your daughter can look up to. Also, point out celebrities and other famous folks who challenge stereotypes about size and beauty and seem comfortable in their own skins. Help them stop the cycle. Urge them to post constructive comments that support their friends for who they are, not what they look like. Help them view media critically. Talk about over-sexualized images or unrealistic body ideals of girls in the media. Explore websites such as the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in the Media and the Representation Project that promote the importance of positive body image and valuing women for their contributions to society.

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Planning a memorable birthday event can be the highlight of your child’s year, if you maximize the fun and minimize the stress. The best way to increase the magic and decrease the madness is to use a handy checklist so you can start early and get ready gradually. Or if you want to plan your party in one fell swoop a few weeks ahead, this checklist will help you do that, too. I have been planning and hosting birthday parties for over a decade, and these steps will get you from vision to fruition. Follow these timing tips, and you’ll be able to keep a smile on your face from the day you start planning until the moment the final guest is picked up or dropped off. Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

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10. Choose A Theme.

ally just the right amount of time. But if it’s a busy time of year, add another week or two.

Always have a theme. Having a focus will help you plan and execute your party without a hitch. Several months before your party date, brainstorm themes with your guest of honor. See sidebar for theme suggestions.

6. Order The Cake.

9. Make Reservations. If there is one thing I have learned about popular party venues, it’s that they fill up early. Once you have your theme and know you will need a location away from home, get your reservations nailed down tight two-three months in advance.

8. Find Supplies Online. Shop local when you can to support your local economy, but for those hardto-locate items, don’t burn up time ad gas searching for what you can easily find online. Generally speaking, onestop party stores are not as prevalent as they used to be and you’ll likely be delighted by the variety you can find online. Just make sure to place your

orders at least month early to allow for shipping time and returns if anything is not what you’d expected.

7. Send Out Invitations. Evite wins hands-down for quick and easy party invites. Just visit evite.com, select a theme, add in your guests’ e-mail addresses, and send your invitations. Two weeks notice is usu-

Cakes and cupcakes can get expensive when you make them from scratch. Besides, the kids will probably like the local big-box or grocery store sheet cakes just as much as homemade. Order one week ahead for pickup up on party day for the freshest results.

5. Tackle Your Local Shopping List. Despite ordering ahead online, you probably still have few items you need to pick up

Mobile and Baldwin County’s Board Certified Allergy Experts coastalallergyasthma.com 33

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locally. Be sure to pick them up at least a week ahead in case you can’t find something and need to order it online after all.

Everything will go smoother on party day if you take care of as much as you can the day before.

4. Recruit helpers. Why try to

1. Party Down! Get a good night’s sleep. Allow at least two hours prior for set up and one hour afterwards for clean up. Then enjoy every memorable moment. Designate a party photographer, if your hands will be full to document the day.

do everything yourself when you can have so much more fun at your party with plenty of helping hands standing by? See the sidebar for suggestions.

3. Curry Favors. Favors don’t have to be expensive or intricate. For a home party, go simple, fun, and inexpensive. Be as eco-friendly as possible by offering favors in a reusable container. If hosting a party elsewhere, consider letting the party be favor enough or simply offering a small treat to guests on the way out like a lollipop or a candy necklace.

2. Set Up A Day Ahead. If you are ordering any large food deliveries like pizza, place your order a day ahead. Don’t forget to check online for any discounts or coupons. Then go ahead and tackle as much prep work as you can. Decorations? Food preparation? Party favors? Activity prep?

Low-stress, High-Fun Party Themes • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Make-something Party Animal Interaction Party Bounce or Jump Party Pool Party Movie Party Tea Party Pony Party Bowling Party Garden Party Roller Skating or Ice Skating Party Spa Party Slumber Party Indoor Fun Center Outdoor Playground Party

Who Can Help? Both parents need to contribute. Don’t forget to factor in Dad’s strengths before, during, and after the festivities. Babysitters or neighbor teens make great party helpers. I pay our sitter to attend because I always need extra help, and I also want her to share in making memories. Exchange party help with a friend. You help with her child’s party and then ask for the favor back for your child’s party. Just ask! You never know when a guest’s parent might enjoy helping and you might make a new mom friend this way. Once you have the final attendance list, use evite.com to inquire if anyone is available to pitch in. Some people make better “special guests” than helpers. Siblings of yours or the guest of honor may fall into this category, as may elderly grandparents or visiting relatives. For peace of mind during the party, only invite those you know in advance will be gracious helpers. MBP Christina Katz has planned some fun birthday parties over the years including a pony party, a bowling party, and a roller skating party. But her all-time favorite was the sleepover spa party.

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Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

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s. ou or

Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and DVDs In The Heights

Skater Girl

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13

B+

B-

Netflix

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

A-

Prerna is fascinated when she first sees a skateboard. Then a visitor from England donates some to her village and Prerna learns to overcome her fears and develop confidence. But now she has to choose between following her dreams or adhering to her family's expectations. This atypical sports film raises big issues while telling an exciting, moving story. It’s a great choice for teens and tweens. Photo ©Netflix

Wish Dragon

rme

Rating

Usnavi owns a bodega and is saving his money to return to the Dominican Republic and rebuild his late father’s bar. But his dreams become entangled with those of his friends and he starts to wonder if he can ever leave the people he loves. With infectious music, spirited dance numbers, and a joyful ambience, this is a fun fiesta of a movie that’s suitable for teens and adults. Photo ©Warner Bros

In Theaters & HBO Max

Netflix

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

A-

When Din discovers a magical wishing dragon in a teapot, he knows what to wish for. He wants to reconnect with his childhood best friend who is now famous. This story has some parallels to Aladdin but it also delves more deeply into questions of what actually makes people happy. It’s an entertaining and thought-provoking animated film that will please both kids and their parents. Photo ©Netflix

Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway

In Theatres

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

B-

A-

Peter Rabbit and Bea’s new husband aren’t getting along so Peter runs away to the big city where his ability to sow chaos has even greater scope. When his siblings catch up, mayhem becomes a family affair. Kids will enjoy the kinetic action sequences and slapstick violence but there’s not a lot here to amuse anyone over the age of eight. Photo ©Sony Pictures Releasing

Queen Bees

Digital on Demand

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13

B-

A-

B-

C-

While her house is being remodeled, Helen temporarily moves into a retirement community, only to discover that mean girls run the place. Fortunately, there’s a charming gentleman who’s interested in her…This is a predictable film with less negative content than most movies in the genre. Given its topic, it’s unlikely to interest anyone under the age of sixty-five. Photo ©Gravitas Ventures

Hero Mode

Digital on Demand

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

B-

A-

Kate Mayfield’s video game company is in trouble unless she can come up with a blockbuster game to debut at the tech show. But her team is floundering and it’s up to her teenage son to save the day. Burdened by an implausible plot, flat acting, and terrible dialogue, this film isn’t worth watching for viewers of any age. Photo ©Blue Fox Entertainment Grades range from: A= absence of content concerns to D= excess of content concerns Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com 35

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Cakes, Cupcakes and Treats

are exp (25

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Bake My Day

156-A McGregor Avenue North, Mobile We bake everything from scratch just like our mothers have for over 70 years. Our menu offers a variety of classic favorites and new twists on old fashioned recipes. Wonderful Cakes! (251) 219-7261 www.bakemydaymobile.com

In Pa

Delish’s Desserts

23 Upham Street, Mobile We offer a wonderful selection of birthday cakes, cookie, bars, pies, and much more. Come visit us and see what we can make for you! (251) 473-6115 www.facebook.com/delishsdessertseatery

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ellenJAY Stylish Events + Sweets

2158 Airport Boulevard, Mobile ellenJAY offers custom sweets, chic decor and dessert tables for any event where style is a must! (251) 219-7406 www.ellenjayevents.com

Art

Flour Girls Bakery

809 Hillcrest Road, Mobile Hometown bakery specializing in handmade cakes, cupcakes, cookies and pastries. (251) 634-2285 flourgirlsbakery2285@yahoo.com Find us on Facebook

Great American Cookie

1201 Industrial Parkway, Saraland (251) 345-1928 3490 Bel Air Mall, Mobile (251) 476-2447 740 Schillinger Road South, Mobile (251) 633-0636 We do all kinds of cookie cakes for all occasions. We bake fresh every day. Say it with a cookie cake! www.greatamericancookies.com

Lighthouse Bakery

919 Chaumont Avenue, Dauphin Island We have all your bakery needs on Dauphin Island. (251) 861-2253

Marble Slab Creamery

4439 Rangeline Road Unit C, Mobile (251) 219-6385 740 Schillinger Road South, Mobile (251) 633-0636 1201 Industrial Parkway, Saraland (251) 345-1928 Marble Slab Creamery offers truly unique gourmet ice cream cakes that give a chef-driven flair to any occasion. We can also cater for ice cream parties www.marbleslab.com

Pastry Shop, The

2560 Dauphin Street, Mobile Wonderful service; delicious, beautiful and original cakes and pastries! (251) 479-2629

Pollman’s Bake Shop, Inc

4464 Old Shell Road, Mobile Classic Bake Shop serving Mobile since 1918! Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

Cakes for all occasions, pastries, cookies and sandwiches. Wonderful Birthday Cakes! (251) 342-8546

Pollman’s Bake Shop, Inc

750 South Broad Street, Mobile Classic Bake Shop serving Mobile since 1918! Cakes for all occasions, pastries, cookies and sandwiches. Wonderful Birthday Cakes! (251) 438-1511

Sally’s Piece-A-Cake

5638 Three Notch Road, Mobile Your imagination is our reality! We offer cakes for all occasions; we have a daily selection of cupcakes and treats. Ask about our catering and sweet table. (251) 219-6379 sallyscakepics@gmail.com www.sallyspieceacake.com

Simply Sweet Shoppe

6207 Cottage Hill Road Suite B, Mobile Simply Sweet Cupcake Boutique is a locally, family, owned cupcake bakery. Our frostings and cupcakes are made fresh, in small batches, daily to ensure quality. Simply Sweet also specializes in creating Wedding, Birthday, and other Special Occasion Cakes that will make your event one of a kind! (251) 665-3003 www.simplysweetmobile.com

Balloon Bubble Buddies

Balloon animals, bubble-maker, confetti gun and t-shirt launcher which can launch parachuting army men, stuffed animals and party gifts. Balloon arches, custom centerpieces and various decorations for your event. Visit us on Facebook! (251) 233-9647 www.balloonbubblebuddies.com

Dr. Gee’s Magic & Balloons

Magic and Balloons for Parties, Promotions and Events. Well-Scripted Entertaining and Educational Magic Shows. Creative and Colorful Balloons for Everyone who Loves Balloons. Find us on Facebook (251) 662-7415

Make Believe Parties

Mobile Your requested character will arrive at your party location 30 minutes after your party begins. Some activities may include: songs, story time, royal portraits and general birthday fun! (251) 508-3145 www.makebelievepartiesmobileal.weebly.com

Paint Party Studios

Entertainment to You

Mobile We offer paint-at-home kits for kids birthday parties as well as paint parties at home. We can also book paint parties at your local business and community centers for kids or adults. (251) 343-2423 info@paintpartystudios.com www.paintpartystudios.com

Animal Tales, LLC

Sunshine the Clown

ad on page 37

Make your next event one to remember by inviting live educational animal ambassadors. We aim to educate, entertain, and inspire! (800) 589-5408 ext 2 info@animaledzoocation.com www.animaledzoocation.com

Balloon artist, magic tricks & balloons! (251) 591-2415 sunshinetheclownmobileal@ gmail.com

Uncle Joe’s Rolling Zoo

Petting zoo that comes to you! Friendly animals

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are brought to your location for a petting zoo experience. Find us on Facebook. (251) 866-7713

Weavo the Clown

Balloon artist, clown and face painting. (251) 463-4939 weavo55@yahoo.com

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Invitations - Décor Party Supplies

• Choose 6+ Live Animals • Educational AND Fun • 45+ min Program • Birthday Kid Assists • Highly Interactive • Starting at $225 • Additional Meet and Greet Time Available

Macy Made - Event Planning ad on page 19

Macy Made - Event Planning specializes in custom balloon garlands, custom invitations + stationary, and complete event decor! Please check out our page for more info and to check out our work! (251) 689-8557 macymadeeventplanning@ gmail.com www.macymadeeventplanning.com

Art Craft Press, Inc.

12 Tacon Street, Mobile Fine printing since 1929. For all your printing needs. We are conveniently located in midtown Mobile and offer free delivery, open 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. (251) 471-4383; F: 476-1482 www.artcraftpress.org

• We Come To You!

www.animaledzoocation.com 570-428-4259 animaltalesllc@gmail.com

Gwin’s Stationery

957 Springhill Avenue, Mobile Gwin’s Stationery is a Locally Owned Stationery and Invitation Store located in Spring Hill. Fine custom printing and engraving. (251) 344-3335 gwins.stationery@gwins.cc www.gwinsstationery.com

It’s Inviting

4402 Old Shell Road, Mobile Custom Printed Invitations, Calling Cards, Party Supplies, Gifts and more. (251) 460-0738 itsinviting@aol.com www.itsinvitingmobile.com

Lang’s Loot

Custom balloons for all your party/life needs! langsloot@gmail.com langsloot.com

PROUDLY SERVING MOBILE, ALABAMA AND SURROUNDING AREAS, PICKETT ORTHODONTICS PERFECTS SMILES OF ALL AGES WITH

Paper Jubilee

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!

2032 Airport Blvd (H), Mobile Personalized gifts and stationery! 866-481-4414 paperjubilee1@gmail.com paperjubilee.printswell.com

CUSTOMIZED TREATMENT IN A RELAXED AND COMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT.

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

111 W. Church Street • Jackson, AL 36545 | 877.660.1103 - toll–free | info@pickettortho.com

Party City

300 East Azalea Road, Mobile Paper goods, balloons, favors, invitations, piñatas, music, catering supplies and much more. Party City is the #1 source for all your party supplies with the biggest selection and the best prices. (251) 342-0003 www.partycity.com

Soiree Signatures Invitation Studio & Calligraphy

24 North Florida Street, Mobile Using your invitation as the stylistic starting point, we completely brand your event with your unique look.

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Custom napkins, cups and more, we create it to give you and your guests the ultimate experience. (251) 209-3265 hello@soireesignatures.com www.soireesignatures.com

course is perfect for group outings like birthdays, field trips and summer camps. (251) 239-3120 Bruh@GravityIslandWatersports.com gravityislandwatersports.com

Sunshine Sue’s Playgarden

Legends In Concert

Mobile Birthday Party supplies. (251) 421-2434 Find us on Facebook

Tiny Tent Party

Mobile Mobile’s own slumber party tent rental service is here! Check out our themes and packages and let’s create the perfect celebration for your little guest of honor. 251.895.6414 tinytentparty@gmail.com www.tinytentparty.com

Toomey’s Mardi Gras

755-A McRae Avenue, Mobile Toomey’s Mardi Gras is one of the largest suppliers of Mardi Gras and Seasonal Merchandise. Come check out all our Special Occasion supplies which includes birthday party hats, paper supplies, favors & more. (251) 450-5012 www.toomeys-mardigras.com

Places to Party

Azalea City for the Arts ad on page 3

63 Midtown Park East, Mobile We have great options for your Birthday Party! Some of our options are Drama and Photo Shoot Party, Frozen Themed Drama and Photo Shoot Party, Glow Rave Dance Party or you can rent our largest room and have any party you want! Please contact us for any information. (251) 510-1808 www.azaleacityarts.com

Clash eSports Center ad on Inside Front Cover

200-C North OWA Blvd., Foley Offering Virtual Reality, PC, Xbox, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch gaming plus a private game room for groups! Play your favorite games and the newest games, on the market’s fastest equipment. (251) 257-1400 info@ClashOWA.com www.clashesportsowa.com

Dreamland Skate Center ad on page 4

5672 Three Notch Road, Mobile Groove to the beats on roller skates at this birthday party! Many party packages to choose from and all include lots of skating time, a party room, pizza, drinks and invitations. Glow parties and private parties also available! (251) 661-6997 www.dreamlandskatecenter.com

Gravity Island Watersports ad on Inside Front Cover

500 S OWA Blvd., Foley Splash into summer on the new Aqua Play from Gravity Island Watersports! This aquatic obstacle Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

ad on Inside Front Cover

205 N OWA Blvd, Foley Bring your group to see the world’s greatest live tribute show — or rent the entire venue for your own event! This 430+ seat theater is perfect for any occasion. (251) 369-6100 Theater@VisitOWA.com

Original Oyster House ad on page 29

3733 Battleship Parkway, Mobile The Original Oyster House provides a FREE small cake for birthday celebrations. You may also bring in your own cake. Be sure to check out our private rooms for special occasion. (251) 626-2188 www.originaloysterhouse.com/ group-events.php

“family fun”! Whether you’re planning a birthday party, family reunion, church outing, end of season sports team party, boy/girl scout event, or afterhours private party, the fun begins at Waterville USA! Please visit watervilleusa.com for more information. Let us customize the perfect party for your group! Call 251-948-2106 for details. (251) 948-2106 wville2@gulftel.com www.watervilleusa.com

Action Outdoors – Dauphin Island

650 LeMoyne Drive, Dauphin Island Call for party options and reserve your celebration! (251) 861-2201 reservations@actionoutdoors.org www.actionoutdoors.org

Alligator Alley

19950 Highway 71, Summerdale Give your child a birthday party they’ll never forget! After your adventure along the boardwalk, have your two hour party in the air conditioned sunroom, where everyone can hold a baby alligator. (866) 994-2867; (251) 946-2483 info@gatoralleyfarm.com gatoralleyfarm.com

Altitude Trampoline Park

OWA

ad on Inside Front Cover

1501 South OWA Boulevard, Foley Discover a whole new level of fun when you throw a birthday party at the Gulf Coast’s newest entertainment destination. OWA’s 20+ ride amusement park — The Park at OWA — is the perfect place to celebrate your child’s special day. With attractions for all ages, a 9,500 sq. ft. splash pad and so much more, The Park at OWA is the place to be for birthday fun. (251) 923-2111 GroupSales@VisitOWA.com VisitOWA.com

3658 Airport Boulevard Suite C, Mobile Schedule your birthday party with Altitude and let our party host do all of the work. (251) 725-0171 www.altitudetrampolineparkmobile.com

AMC Mobile 16

785 Schillinger Road South, Mobile Let us help you celebrate the birthday of a child, friend, or yourself! We can’t wait to host your special day! (251) 639-7373 www.amctheatres.com

AMF Bowling Centers

Pump-it Up ad on Back Cover

741 Hillcrest Road # A, Mobile Pump It Up is the ONLY party facility in Mobile offering PRIVATE parties with the option to personalize your party depending on your child’s personality. Personalize by choosing one of our awesome add ons including: GLOW parties, Balloon Drop, Bubbles Extravaganza and GLOW Balloon Drop! (251) 342-3940 www.PumpItUpParty.com/mobile-al

USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park ad on page 12

2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile Book your birthday party aboard the USS ALABAMA. Admirals Package: $250. Includes 2 hour rental of the wardroom, admission for 20 children and their parents. (251) 433-2703 rdavis@ussalabama.com www.ussalabama.com

Waterville USA - Water Park & Amusement Park ad on page 30

Highway 59 South, Gulf Shores Waterville USA is the gulf coast headquarters for

125 North Schillinger Road, Mobile (251) 639-1221 4120 Government Boulevard, Mobile (251) 661-1221 Our parties are custom-built and made to amaze, featuring classic bowling fun, unique party favors, and a ton of kid-friendly food and drinks! www.amf.com

AR Workshop

6601B Airport Blvd. , Mobile We like to pARty! In the workshop - we’ll be ready to share the experience of DIY with your group! (251) 639-7411 mobile@arworkshop.com www.arworkshop.com/mobile/

Back Country Trail

3801 Orange Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach Bike or Hike to your next family picnic or birthday party! Enjoy bouldering, the butterfly garden and scenic trails through Gulf State Park. Visit the Campground Store to purchase trail gear and snacks. (251) 981-1063 trail@cityoforangebeach.com www.backcountrytrail.com

Beginner’s Luck

5392 Dawes Lane Ext, Theodore Barnyard Birthday Parties, unicorn parties, mobile petting zoo and more. (251) 605-3499 Find us on Facebook

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Bright Spot

2501 East I-65 Service Road North, Mobile Fabulous Day Package includes a private party room and personal Party Assistant, coordinated paper products and balloons. Each child receives 2 slices of pizza, ice-cream cup and beverage. Children enjoy 30 minutes in the indoor play ground, 30 minutes in the arcade room, 30 minutes in the gym playing basketball and jumping in the bounce house and the last hour and a half is spent in the private party room. (251) 338-8600 brightspot@mthebroncm.org www.brightspotevent.com

Build-A-Bear Workshop

30500 Highway 181, Spanish Fort Build-A-Bear Workshop makes your party special! Each guest makes & takes home a furry friend to love! Build your Party online! (251) 625-4183 www.buildabear.com

Cammie’s Old Dutch Ice Cream Shoppe

2511 Old Shell Road, Mobile Celebrate your birthday at Mobile’s favorite Ice Cream Parlor! Enjoy Ice Cream, Sundaes, Sodas, Old Fashion Banana Splits, Milk Shakes, and more! (251) 471-1710 www.cammiesolddutch.com

Chuck E. Cheese’s

710 Downtowner Loop West, Mobile We have birthday party packages to fit all ages, party sizes, and budgets. (251) 342-8142 www.chuckecheese.com

Cici’s Pizza

6750 Airport Boulevard, Mobile Someone’s birthday wish is about to come true. With an Unlimited Buffet, a birthday party at Cicis is the best gift of all. The perfect spot for pizza, presents & fun with friends. (251) 341-0880 www.cicis.com/locations/ al-mobile-6750-airport-blvd

Coastal Makers Art Studio

70 N. Joachim Street, Ste. F, Mobile Making art and making memories is what we do best! So let us help you plan the perfect party. Art knows no age, all ages welcome! (251) 455-2909 coastalmakers@gmail.com www.coastalmakers.com

Cold Snap Frozen Yogurt

3980F Airport Blvd, Mobile A unique (and FUN) self serve yogurt experience. Catering - Birthday Parties - Field Trips - And MORE! (251) 348-7270 Find us on Facebook

Dauphin Island Sea Lab

101 Bienville Boulevard, Mobile Host your birthday party at the Estuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab! Please call for reservations. (251) 861-2141 x 7000 www.disl.org

Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream

3964 Airport Boulevard, Mobile Dippin’ Dots, the original beaded ice cream, is available in your area! Stop into our location to check out our delicious ice cream products, or contact us for info about catering, birthday parties and more. (251) 378-5460 www.dippindots.com

Engage Gaming

5701-N Moffett Road, Mobile XBox, PS4, VR, PC, and more! We’ve got it all! We have numerous party packages. (251) 378-8260 www.engagegamingmobile.com

Fairways Indoor Golf Club

25000 Bass Pro Drive (Suite 104) , Spanish Fort Great for corporate events, private events, birthday parties and fundraisers. Please call for additional information and pricing. (251) 621-5277 info@fairwaysindoorgolfclub.com www.fairwaysindoorgolfclub.com

Ferris Wheel and The Wharf Express

23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach The Wharf is home to one of the largest Ferris Wheels in the Southeast standing over 112 feet tall. Please call for party and group rates. Picnic tables and umbrellas are available for parties. (251) 224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com 2000 Aerospace Drive, Mobile Flight Works Alabama offers out-of-this-world birthday parties. Where else can you host a birthday party that takes guests to Mars or the surface of a Comet? We can accommodate parties of up to 30. (251) 512-2320 info@flightworksalabama.com www.flightworksalabama.com

Gather Kids Place

7856 Westside Park Drive, Mobile Gather together for Open Play, Classes, Storytimes & Birthday Parties! We’re all about creative play for littles. Ages 0-7. gatherkidsplace@gmail.com www.gatherfamilychurch.com/kidsplace

Get Air Mobile

842 Schillinger Road South, Mobile We do parties! Numerous party packages available. (251) 241-3101 www.getairmobile.com

Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center

65 Government Street, Mobile At the Gulf Coast Exploreum, we’ve got children’s birthday parties down to a science. We provide unique birthday party experiences in one of the coolest venues in town. We have multiple packages to make your birthday party experience easy and as fun as possible. We even handle the clean up! (251) 208-6893 www.exploreum.com

GulfQuest

155 South Water Street, Mobile Celebrate your child’s birthday in a one-of-a-kind way — on the Mobile River! If your child loves the water, boats, or marine life, we are the birthday party destination for you. (251) 436-8901 info@gulfquest.org www.gulfquest.org 2605 Old Shell Road, Mobile Beads and jewelry making birthday parties are so much fun! Ages 8 and older. (251) 473-8650 www.facebook.com/kjbstudio

6167 Airport Boulevard, Mobile Have a birthday coming up? What better way to celebrate than at Kraze Frozen Treats, where it’s always fun and always delicious! We can accommodate party reservations, and even have the Kraze Bear make an appearance. (251) 316-0045 www.krazefrozentreats.com

Linda’s Learning Farm

2380 Havens Road, Semmes Birthday Celebrations on the farm include animal viewing in the barn, playground and picnic area, wagon ride and horseback riding. We also offer Pony Pool Birthday Parties. (251) 649-1802 www.learningfarmandplaypark.com

Nasser Gymnastics

Flight Works Alabama

KJB Studio

Kraze Frozen Treats

3055 Old Shell Road, Mobile Birthday Parties at Nasser Gymnastics are FUN and stress free for parents! Your birthday Superstar will love playing in our extra large foam Pit, jumping on the many Trampolines, and doing Gymnastics. (251) 479-9311 nassergym@yahoo.com www.nassergym.net

Partridge Plantation

9574 Cumberland Road, Irvington A birthday party to remember! A two-hour party includes hayride, pony ride, table cloths and balloons, playground and visiting the other farm animals in a clean and safe environment. (251) 957-6465 www.thepartridgeplantation.com

Pete’s Party Castle

2040 Schillinger Road South, Mobile Come see why we’re the BEST kids’ party place in town! Enjoy great food, arcades and a dragon playground. (251) 281-1990 www.petespartycastle.com

Planet Gymnastics

900 Schillinger Road South, Mobile Gymnastics fun featuring trampolines, foam pits, rope swing, cargo net, and more. Different party packages to choose from. (251) 650-0699 PlanetGymnasticsAL@comcast.net www.planetgymnastics.com

Rambo’s Skateland

531 Highway 43 South, Saraland 4 Party Packages available. (251) 675-6601 www.facebook.com/Rambos. Skateland.Saraland

Regal Mobile Stadium 18 (Hollywood Theatres) 1250 Satchel Paige Drive, Mobile Birthdays are better at the movies! (251) 473-9655 www.regmovies.com

Seward Farms

10836 Tanner Williams Road, Lucedale Celebrate birthdays with a fun-filled day on the farm! We offer several birthday party packages to choose from with optional add-on activities. (228) 641-3936 info@sewardfarms.com www. sewardfarms.com

Silver Lining Farm @ Mimi C. Peters Riding School

10727 El Nina Drive, Mobile Horsey birthday parties are the easiest and fun

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Th for all ages. The guests ride horses and ponies for one hour. Our experienced students help give the children a mini lesson. Riding is followed by a hay ride around the beautiful property with lots of singing! (251) 634-1229 horses@silverliningfarm.net www.silverliningfarm.net

Southern Alabama Paintball

4901 Montee Road, Theodore We pride ourselves in providing a safe, family oriented paintball field for all players. We also have laser tag (reservations required due to availability) and airsoft games. (251) 301-6004 www.southernalabamapaintball.com

Spa-Tea-Da

3938 Government Boulevard, Mobile We are a unique, whimsical party venue offering themed spa and tea parties, individual spa services and fun events. Girls ages 3-13. Reservation required. (251) 447-4846 www.spa-tea-da.com

Starlight Stables

11635 Dick Turner Road, Grand Bay We are the home of Toni’s ponies and party services! We offer pony rentals for parties! We come to you, or you can have your party here. (251) 391-4268 www.starlightstables.weebly.com

Sunshine Skate Center

950 Hillcrest Road, Mobile Come celebrate your birthday at Sunshine Skate Center! Skate and Go-Kart party options – The only indoor Go-Kart party in town with safe indoor go-karts with 2 great packages that include go-kart racing, arcade time in our new arcade, invitations, and tokens. We also have many great skate packages that include invitations, free game tokens, admission and skate rentals! (251) 639-1704 info@sunshineskate.com www.sunshineskate.com

The Track

3200 Gulf Shore Parkway, Gulf Shores The Track is your family fun destination with six go-kart tracks, blaster boats, the Skycoaster, mini golf, Fat Daddy’s Arcade and more! (251) 270-0210 gulfshores@funatthetrack.com www.funatthetrack.com

Wales West

13670 Smiley Street, Silverhill Celebrate any size party at Wales West! You can include authentic Train ride, mini train, lake with waterslide and large shady deck, indoor Heated Pool, or Community party room. (888) 569-5337 or (251) 752-5426 enquiries@waleswest.com www.waleswest.com

Wild Native Delta Safaris

30841 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Narrated Boat Tours! Please call for party options and booking. (251) 272-4088 info@wildnative.com www.wildnativetours.com

Wild Native Delta Safaris

101 South Water Street, Mobile Narrated Boat Tours! Please call for party options and booking. (251) 272-4088 info@wildnative.com www.wildnativetours.com Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

Xtreme Paintball

900-A Schillinger Road South, Mobile An action-packed way to spend a birthday that is more suitable for older kids. Groups/parties must be booked in advance with a deposit. (251) 639-0399 www.xpb.us

Rentals Blue Rents

1601 East I-65 Service Road South, Mobile Offering inflatables, games & activities, photo booths, concessions, tents, tables and chairs, catering and event equipment. (251) 479-8502 www.bluerents.net

Dreamy Sleepovers

We deliver the perfect, stress free slumber party. Our tents allow you to provide an Insta worthy party full of fun, giggles and imagination. (251) 447-3062 dreamysleepovers1@gmail.com dreamy-sleepovers.com

Exotic Inflatables

Mobile Water slides, obstacle fun center, movie screens, equipment, concessions and more. (251) 533-6728 info@exoticinflatables.com www.exoticinflatables.com

Hallmark Party Rentals

plier of photo booth rentals along the Gulf Coast regions of Alabama, Mississippi and Florida. (251) 490-5693 www.magicmemoriesphoto.com

Make Believe Parties

Mobile You can enjoy magical memories in your own living room. This is because we come to your location for your party event. Your requested character will arrive 30 minutes after your party begins. Some of this magic may include: songs, story time, royal portraits and general birthday fun! (251) 508-3145 www.makebelieveparties mobileal.weebly.com

Mobile Popcorn (Carnival Supply)

3333-C Cottage Hill Road, Mobile We are a one stop fun shop - rentals include Jumper Inflatables, Concession Equipment and more, we have you covered. (251) 479-2492 www.mobilepopcorn.com

Mobile Trolley

The Old Shell Trolley is available for rentals. (251) 604-6626 www.oldshelltrolleyclub.com

On Sight Game Theatre

On Sight Entertainment brings the best mobile video game truck party right to your front door. (251) 207-8102 1onsightentertainment@gmail.com www.onsightentertainment.com

Once Upon a Time Parties

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Mobile Bounce houses, water slides, Sno cone machines, popcorn machine, games, and more. (251) 554-3883 Find us on Facebook

Bring the magic home. Book a fairy-tale character to attend Birthday parties, charity events and more in the Southern Alabama and Gulf Coast areas. onceuponatimemobile@gmail.com www.onceuponatimepartiesal.com

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Hurricane Inflatables can make your special occasion or event easy, fun and memorable. We offer bounce houses, water slides, obstacle courses, rock walls, mechanical bulls, tents, tables, and concessions (cotton candy, snow cone, popcorn machines), interactive inflatable games and marketing promotions. (251) 923-7279 concessionmaker@hotmail.com www.hurricaneinflatables.com

JB’s Fun Jumps & Slides

JB’s Fun Jumps & Slides is your one stop shop for all things bouncy and fun!! We have space jumps, slides, combos, and more. (251) 599-9301 info@jbsfunjumps.com www.jbsfunjump.com

Kona Ice

Have Kona Ice Truck come to your next Birthday Party. We call it the Kona Entertainment Vehicle, because well…that’s what it is - a party on wheels! (251) 583-0889 konalife@kona-ice.com www.kona-ice.com

Little Lawn Party

There’s always something to celebrate. Throw a Little Lawn Party. Email, call or text for more info. (251) 509-3344 littlelawnparty@gmail.com

Magic Memories Photography LLC – Photo Booth Rental

Magic Memories Photo Booth is the premier sup-

Spartan Inflatables currently offers bounce houses, 5 in 1 combos, wet/dry slides, and obstacle courses to the North Mobile market. (251) 333-6400 www.spartaninflatables.com

Starlight Stables

The Cheese Wagon

Mobile’s Original Party Bus! Your ultimate mobile party solution for any occasion or event. (251) 510-8500 thecheesewagonpartybus@ gmail.com www.thecheesewagon.com

Wee Bounce 4 U Party Rentals

Mobile We take pride in helping create a lifetime of memories for all of our customers. We always provide clean/high quality inflatables at a reasonable price. (251) 586-8594 www.weebounce4u.com

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Yard Love Mobile

Personalized yard greeting delivered. Birthdays, anniversary, graduations, or any special occasion. We set it up after dark, the night before your special occasion (or during the day – your choice!). (251) 623-0105 yardlovemobile@gmail.com yardlovegreetings.com/ MBP

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FamilyCalendar Thursday July 1

Create! Play! Learn! (Free) 10:00 West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us under the portico for fun and educational activities for your preschooler! This a rain or shine event and registration is required. Please register here: https://forms. gle/2KcQXPgRn7u1Grh66 or call (251) 340-8571 for assistance with registering. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Friday July 2

Crafting with Mr. Butch (Free) 1:00 PM Virtual, Mobile, AL, 36608 Join Mr. Butch for a fun craft demonstration! This episode, he’ll teach about how to make red white and blue wind socks! Participate on Facebook live on the MPL Children’s Department Facebook page. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org RV Alabama Discovery Excursion ($30 per person) 2:45 PM - 5:00 PM, Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL Join a professional Dauphin Island Sea Lab Educator for a two-hour boat trip in the waters surrounding Dauphin Island, where you’ll learn how estuaries such as Mobile Bay feed the seas. www.disl.edu/events/rv-alabama-discovery-excursion4/ Independence Day Celebration Mary G. Montgomery High School, 4275 Snow Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Join the City of Semmes for fireworks, live music, food vendors, arts & crafts vendors, inflatables, & more at MGM High School. The fireworks show will take place after dark. cityofsemmesal.gov/community/events/

Wednesday July 14

Luke Combs in Concert The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Luke Combs in Concert 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com Mobile’s 4th of July Celebration Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 Plan to spend your July 4th in downtown Mobile! Enjoy a fantastic fireworks show and music at Cooper Riverside Park while celebrating the birth of our nation. (251) 208-1600

Wednesday July 7

Wonderful Wednesdays 10:30 AM - 11:30 PM, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL, 36582 Who knew that summertime Wednesdays could be so wonderful? Join us in June and July for Wonderful Wednesdays, a fun, informative series on gardening, history and more. 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

Thursday July 8

Beach, Dune, and Maritime Forest Excursion ($12 per person)

Luke Combs in Concert The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Luke Combs in Concert 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

9:45 - 12:15 PM, Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL There’s more to a barrier island than sand and water – the beach is a thriving habitat with a dynamic dune system and fascinating plants and animals, and higher elevations are covered by lush forest. We’ll walk through the maritime forest, then on to the dunes and beach. www.disl.edu/events/beach-dune-and-maritimeforest-excursion20/

Saturday July 3

Saturday July 10

Grand Bay Watermelon Festival ($5 per vehicle) 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Festival Park, Hwy 90, Grand Bay, AL, 36541 An annual family fun event with all the free, sliced, ice cold watermelon you can eat, rides, arts & Craft Vendors, Food Vendors, and entertainment. 251-865-3456 www.grandbaywatermelonfestival.org Luke Combs in Concert The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Luke Combs in Concert 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Sunday July 4

Mobile Bay Fireworks Cruise ($29.99/adults and

$19.99/kids ages 6-12)

7:45 PM - 10:45 PM, Blakeley Dock, 34745 State Hwy. 225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 This cruise takes guests out into the headwaters of Mobile Bay for a stunning view of Mobile’s 4th of July fireworks display. We depart from the Blakeley Dock www.blakeleypark.com/ 4th of July CelebrationOWA OWA, 1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 We’ll be celebrating Independence Day at OWA with family-friendly activities and live entertainment throughout the property followed by an epic fireworks show at 8:45pm on July 4th. visitowa.com

Share the Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Program (Free) 10:00 AM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL, 36617 Learn all about the sea turtles that nest on Alabama’s coast! Discover ways you can support these popular endangered ocean creatures. Volunteers with the Share the Beach program will host fun activities for the whole family to enjoy! Gather on the library lawn on the Scott Street side of the library building. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Wonderful Wednesdays 10:30 AM - 11:30 PM, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL, 36582 Who knew that summertime Wednesdays could be so wonderful? Join us in June and July for Wonderful Wednesdays, a fun, informative series on gardening, history and more. 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org Wildlife of Mobile Road Show (Free) 2:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for an exciting outdoor program! The Mobile Environmental Studies Center will bring a variety of native wildlife to engage and entertain all who attend. Learn about the wonders of our local animals! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday July 15

Salt Marsh Excursion ($12 per person) 9:45 - 12:15 PM, Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL Salt marshes are not monotonous expanses of grass; they’re fascinating coastal wetlands that are critical to our estuary system. Be a marine scientist for a day. www.disl.edu/events/salt-marsh-summer-excursion/

Friday July 16

Summer Wildlife Program Series ($25 for

Share the Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Program (Free) Details July 14.

9:00 AM Historic Blakeley State Park, 34745 AL-225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at 9 AM on July 10th along Blakeley’s beautiful waterfront for a special program on Delta wildlife, introducing some of the park’s plants and animals, then join us on one of our popular “Delta Adventure” cruises”. 251-626-0798 www.blakeleypark.com

Film Series: Gordon Parks (Free) 6:30 PM Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti St Mobile, AL, 36602 We’ve partnered with our friends at Alabama Contemporary Art Center to screen a series of films directed by the famed photojournalist. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

BINGO Under the Portico (Free) 10:00 West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Please bring your own chair and join us on the covered patio to compete for prizes! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 16-18, 2021. The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, a Project of the Mobile Jaycees, is the largest fishing tournament in the world. adsfr.com

adults/$15 for kids ages 6-12. Under 6 is free.)

Mobile Area Children’s Charity (MACC) Expo 531 Lemoyne Dr Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The Mobile Area Children’s Charity Expo (MACC Expo) will be a one day event on Dauphin Island held during the Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament (RMYAT). The purpose of the MACC Expo is to increase awareness of the various charitable organizations and events throughout Mobile County whose goal is to help Mobile area children/youth/families. Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament is designed to bring families together and encourage sportsmanship. The tournament takes place on the Saturday before the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. RMYAT is for children 15 years and younger adsfr.com/rmyat/

Saturday July 17

2021 Dauphin Street Vault Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 For nine years, athletes of all ages and skill levels, including Olympians and professionals, have competed in this annual invitational. The DSV continues to raise the bar for the sport of pole vaulting. www.dauphinstreetvault.org

Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Details on July 16.

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FamilyCalendar Brantley Gilbert in Concert The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Brantley Gilbert in Concert 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Sunday July 18

Animal Ambassadors Cruise ($20/adults and $12/ kids ages 6-12; under 6 is free)

1:30 PM Historic Blakeley State Park, 34745 AL-225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at 9 AM on July 10th along Blakeley’s beautiful waterfront for a special program on Delta wildlife, introducing some of the park’s plants and animals, then join us on one of our popular “Delta Adventure” cruises”. 251-626-0798 www.blakeleypark.com Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Details on July 16.

Monday July 19

Art Lab (Free) 10:00 West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us under the portico rain or shine to create your masterpiece! We provide the supplies, you provide the creativity! We will have an assortment of art materials available. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday July 20

Mobile’s Tour de Food Trucks 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Arlington Park at Brookley Complex, Mobile, AL The 3rd Tuesday of each month. 4-7pm Follow the Food Trucks! #DiscoverYourParks by following the Food Truck Trail! We are continuing our Spring Food Truck Trail through the Summer! In Eight Parks, Eight Months, and Eight Days of Food Trucks and Fun! Games, music, trivia, and food...come spend the evening with us to enjoy it all! www.facebook.com/mobileparksandrec/

Wednesday July 21

Wildlife of Mobile Road Show (Free) 10:00 AM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us for an exciting outdoor program! The Mobile Environmental Studies Center will bring a variety of native wildlife to engage and entertain all who attend. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Wonderful Wednesdays 10:30 AM - 11:30 PM, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL, 36582 Who knew that summertime Wednesdays could be so wonderful? Join us in June and July for Wonderful Wednesdays, a fun, informative series on gardening, history and more. 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

Thursday July 22

Bay Bites 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Hosted by Mobile Baykeeper’s Young Advisory Council (YAC) leadership committee, Bay Bites is an annual food-truck festival benefiting our work for clean water, clean air, and healthy communities. Enjoy delicious food from the area’s best local food trucks, craft beer and wine, live music, lawn games, and a variety of kids entertainment options on the beautiful riverfront of Downtown Mobile. Ticket info on website. www.mobilebaykeeper.org

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

Friday July 23

RV Alabama Discovery Excursion ($30 per person) 2:45 PM - 5:00 PM, Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL Join a professional Dauphin Island Sea Lab Educator for a two-hour boat trip in the waters surrounding Dauphin Island, where you’ll learn how estuaries such as Mobile Bay feed the seas. www.disl.edu/events/rv-alabama-discovery-excursion4/ 3 Doors Down in Concert The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 3 Doors Down in Concert 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com Christmas in July Boutique Bash The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 Christmas will be here before you know it. Christmas Boutique Bash will help you get a head start on all of your shopping. This will be a fantastic day of shopping, food, and fun! We will have food trucks, shopping , photos with Santa for the littles, and so much more. www.eventbrite.com/e/christmas-in-july-boutiquebash-tickets-154475178417

Saturday July 24

Gulf Coast Exotic Animal Expo ($5 (children under the age of 12 enter for free))

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Abba Temple Shrine, 7701 Hitt Rd Mobile, AL, 36695 The South Alabama Cage Bird Society is excited to announce annual Gulf Coast Exotic Animal Expo! This year’s event will feature birds, reptiles, and mammals. www.facebook.com/gceae/ Christmas in July Boutique Bash Details on July 23.

Sunday July 25

Gulf Coast Exotic Animal Expo ($5 (children under the age of 12 enter for free))

Wednesday July 28

Savvy Mom Sale 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Savvy Mom Sale - kids resale event. www.savvymomsale.com Wonderful Wednesdays 10:30 AM - 11:30 PM, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL, 36582 Who knew that summertime Wednesdays could be so wonderful? Join us in June and July for Wonderful Wednesdays, a fun, informative series on gardening, history and more. 251-459-8973 bellingrath.org

Thursday July 29

Savvy Mom Sale 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Savvy Mom Sale - kids resale event. www.savvymomsale.com

Friday July 30

Savvy Mom Sale 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Savvy Mom Sale - kids resale event. www.savvymomsale.com

Saturday July 31

Savvy Mom Sale 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Savvy Mom Sale - kids resale event. www.savvymomsale.com Southwest Chamber of Commerce Drive-thru Kids Day 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Southwest Chamber of Commerce, 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL, 36619 Drive-thru event for children 4-12. Each child will receive a backpack with school supplies. Luke Bryan in Concert The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Luke Bryan in Concert 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Sunday August 1

Animal Ambassadors Cruise ($20/adults and $12/ kids ages 6-12; under 6 is free)

Wednesday August 4

Learning Lunch 12:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for an afternoon lecture with Dr. John Edwin Mason about MMofA’s special exhibition, Gordon Parks: Segregation Story in Mobile, 1956. (251) 208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

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Friday August 6

Alabama in Concert The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Alabama in concert www.alwharf.com

Saturday August 7

Summer Wildlife Program Series ($25 for adults/$15 for kids ages 6-12. Under 6 is free.)

Sunday August 15

Dauphin Island Sunday Sunset Concerts 6:00 PM West End Beach, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The monthly concerts begin about 90 minutes before the sun goes down. Music and beach lovers are invited to bring lawn chairs, snacks, beverages, a

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Tuesday August 17

Mobile’s Tour de Food Trucks 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Tricentennial Park, 2121 Lake Dr Mobile, AL, 36617 The 3rd Tuesday of each month. 4-7pm Follow the Food Trucks! #DiscoverYourParks by following the Food Truck Trail! We are continuing our Spring Food Truck Trail through the Summer! In Eight Parks, Eight Months, and Eight Days of Food Trucks and Fun! Games, music, trivia, and food... come spend the evening with us to enjoy it all! www.facebook.com/mobileparksandrec/

Friday August 27

Vintage Market Days of Mobile - Fall 2021 “Southern Picnic” The Grounds , 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608vintagemarketdays.com/market/mobile/tickets. php

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Sunday August 29

Vintage Market Days of Mobile - Fall 2021 “Southern Picnic” The Grounds , 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608vintagemarketdays.com/market/mobile/tickets. php

Every day in July

Creation Station Theodore Oaks Branch, 5808 US-90 West E Theodore, AL, 36582 Build confidence, positivity, and fine motor skills with a fun craft or activity suitable for all ages! Our Creation Station will be open every week in June and July during regular customer service hours, and social distancing will be maintained. 251-662-9676 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Saturdays thru July 17

Market in the Park- Spring 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Buy locally-grown, locally-produced and homemade items at Market in the Park! www.specialeventsmobile.org

Saturdays thru July 15

Market in the ParkSpring 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Trinity Gardens Park, Mobile, AL, 36617 Buy locally-grown, locally-produced and homemade items at Market in the Park! www.specialeventsmobile.org

Tuesdays in July

BINGO on the Patio (Free) 4:00 PM Spring Hill Branch, 4 S McGregor Ave Mobile, AL, 36608 Weather permitting, Please bring your own chair and join Mr. Butch on the patio to compete for prizes! A traditional game that is simple to learn, BINGO is suitable for all ages! 251-494-2694 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Tuesday in July

Family Storytime 11:00 - 11:45, Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL, 36617 This storytime event at the Toulminville Branch is for families and children of all ages! Weather permitting, we will meet every Tuesday in June and July on the lawn under the oak tree where Ms. Gert will share a story and will invite adults to participate and share a story of their own choosing. Please bring your own chair or blanket. For more information or to register, please email Gert Laffiette (mail to: glaffiette@mplonline.org) or call Ms. Gert at 251-494-4982. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Tails and Tales for Good Listeners 10:00 - 10:45, Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL, 36617 Join us on the lawn at the Toulminville Branch for stories and songs about animals every Tuesday in June and July, weather permitting. Please bring your own chair or blanket. These events are created for a preschool aged audience, but can be enjoyed by any age group.registration is recommended, but not required. For more information or to register, please email glaffiette@mplonline.org or call Ms. Gert at 251-494-4982. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Tuesday or Thursday

MPL Virtual Storytime 10:00 AM Virtual, Mobile, AL Join the Mobile Public Library Children’s Department on any Tuesday or Thursday at 10:00 a.m. for storytime. These events are created for an elementary and preschool aged audience, but can be enjoyed by any age group. Tune in here: www.facebook.com/mobilepubliclibrarychildrens www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every other Tuesday thru July Family Storytime Under the Oaks (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Weather permitting, we will gather on the lawn under the oaks on the Scott Street side of the Ben May Main Library building. Families are asked to bring their own blankets or chairs and to set up their space observing safe social distancing. In addition to enjoying storytime, you will have the opportunity to pick up a take-andmake craft bag and select picture books to take home. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every other Wednesday in July

Storytime Under the Portico (Free) 10:00 West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Spend some quality time encouraging early literacy. Join us under the portico for fun stories and songs! Please bring your own chair or blanket to sit on. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every first and third Wednesday in July

Back Porch Storytime 10:30 Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland , AL, 36571 This storytime will be conducted at the Saraland Public Library location on the porch. Ms. Kathy will be reading from the “Big Books” so everyone can see while sitting social distanced. Please bring a blanket or chair. A take home craft will be provided. Registration is encouraged. Please email katwood@mplonline.org or call 251675-2879 to register. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

First Sunday of every month

Free First Sunday - History Museum of Mobile

(Free)

1:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Free admission for all visitors sponsored by Wind Creek Hospitality every first Sunday of the month! www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Thursdays in July

Dungeons & Dragons (Free) 2:00 PM Spring Hill Branch, 4 S McGregor Ave Mobile, AL, 36608 Teens can make new friends and have fun playing this classic tabletop game every Thursday! For a small fee you can create your very own D&D character mini with the 3D printer in our Maker Lab, or you can use a premade character mini free of charge. 251-494-2694 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Friday

Streets Alive 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 The City of Mobile is bringing our downtown streets alive every Friday! Streets Alive encourages an entertainment-friendly environment for Mobilians to come out and support downtown businesses while maintaining social distancing practices!

Second Saturdays

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

Every other Saturday thru July

Outdoor Movies @ Main (Free) 8:10 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join MPL for movie night in the parking lot of Ben May Main Library! Bring a chair, blanket, or sit in the comfort of your car. Listen on your car radio or a radio will be provided for those sitting outside. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Saturday until September 4

Streets Alive 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us every Saturday and enjoy a variety of bands/entertainment, food trucks, local vendors, and more at Cooper Riverside Park. Saturdays at the Coop is brought to you in partnership with Visit Mobile.

Please send your calendar events to lynn@ mobilebayparents.com. Because of ever-changing circumstances due to Covid-19 , please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

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Don’t Most People Already Know? Q. You talk a lot about budgeting, and how important it is in getting control of your money. But don’t most people already have a good idea of what they’re spending, and how much they have in the bank, without going through all the time and trouble of developing an actual budget?

A. Well, if that were true, why are people paying billions in overdraft fees every year? Why are so many people deep in debt and living paycheck to paycheck, even without taking the effects of a pandemic into account? It’s because most people don’t really know where their money’s going each month. Let’s start with a simple definition of budgeting. A budget is just a plan. It’s not a restriction on spending, it’s a strategy

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2021

for what you’ll do with all your money. It’s tracking what’s coming in and what’s going out. When you budget every month, you’re giving your money purpose. You’re controlling your money, and telling it where to go, instead of scratching your head and wondering where it all went. The word budget gets a bum rap, because some people think it’ll be like putting a straitjacket on their spending and their lives. But that really isn’t true at all. Budgeting actually gives you the power to spend wisely and with purpose. Budgeting even causes feelings of fear, intimidation, and anger in some folks. Sure, it takes a little time and effort at first to create a budget that really works. But once you get the hang of it, and it doesn’t take long, the hard part is over.

Still, to make your cash flow plan work, you have to do it consistently. That means sitting down every month, and making a budget for the upcoming month. Don’t let the fear of what you might find stop you, and don’t overcomplicate things. It’s easy as writing down your income and everything that requires money for the month, then doing a little basic math. And once you have a plan in place, stick to it! Too many people get lazy, or “forget” to do a monthly budget. Give it a shot. You’ll experience a sense of freedom, security, and accomplishment like you’ve never felt before once you’ve taken that first step toward gaining control of your money!

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