All former NICU patients and their families are invited to our NICU Reunion!
Sunday, May 5, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Geri Moulton Children’s Park at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital
Fun activities and refreshments! For more info, e-mail nicureunion@usouthal.edu or call 415-1243!
Contents May 2013 Volume 3 Number 2
Features
32 Bunking Up! Strategies for Shared-Room Success
Learn about the benefits that can come when your children share a bedroom, from creating a stronger bond between them to giving you more space in your home.
40 Best Summer Ever!
Your kids won’t be complaining about summer boredom when you explore these nine ways to amp up creative family fun.
42 Summer Activities Listing
Summer fun abounds in Mobile with special classes and camps for almost any age and interest.
Columns
52 Foster Parenting: Opening Your Home and
Your Heart
Discover why Auburn University athletic director Jay Jacobs, and wife, Angie, have such a passion for fostering children. And find out if your family might want to follow suit.
2 From Mom of the Month 4 Living With Children John Rosemond, Ph.D.
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Kids Health
On The Cover
Mike Little, D.O.
Departments 6 Bits and Pieces
31 Dave Says
13 School Bits
Dave Ramsey
34 Get This!
54 Family Calendar
35 The FlyLady
60 Parent Previews
Paige Gardner Smith
Marla Cilley
39 A Page in a Book Paige Gardner Smith
Anslee (5) is the daughter of Michael Schubert and Georgia Beale. Proud grandmother is Dr. Anne Cox. Anslee loves karate, church activities and helping her Daddy cook. Actually, Anslee is only 1 1/4 years old (she’s a leap year baby!)
Visit www.MobileBayParents.com
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
Mobile Bay Parents Mobile’s Foremost Parenting Source
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
Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall Danielle Nicholas ads@mobilebayparents.com or (251) 304-1200
Contributing Writers Marla Cilley Malia Jacobson Christie del Amo Johnson Christina Katz Lindsay Givens Mike Little, D.O. Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Paige Gardner Smith
Cover Photography
Victoria Webb www.victoriawebbphotography.com
President Jason Watson jason@mobilebayparents.com
Visit us online at www.mobilebayparents.com Mobile Bay Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 81105, Mobile, Alabama, 36689. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 304-1200. Mobile Bay Parents is copyrighted 2013 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.
Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
From Mobile Bay’s Mom of the Month... Gone are the days of sunless afternoons and chilly weather. Summertime is fast approaching and with that comes the end to another school year. While the end to each school year is always a little bittersweet it’s also exciting to think of all the everlasting summer memories that lie ahead. I know some of you are probably wondering what you will do once your daily routines have been altered. Don’t fret; this month’s issue is full of great ideas for summer fun. Some of my favorite childhood memories revolve around summers spent at the beach with family and friends. My son, Eric, is no stranger to the beach either. As soon as it’s warm enough we pack up and head to Orange Beach for as many weekends as we can. I love watching him play in the sand building castles just to turn around and smash them as soon as they are formed. Living so close to the water lends a perfect opportunity for a long beach day. When heading back to Mobile after a fun filled weekend Eric always wants to know when we will go back to the beach. Christina Katz has some great summer fun ideas in her article, Best Summer Ever: Nine Ways To Amp Up Creative Family Fun. I especially love her home project ideas. It’s a great way to finish projects around the house while spending fun time together as a family. Eric, 3, is all about helping out around the house and while there are times when I want to say no because it would be faster to do it myself I try to let him help as much as possible. We are expecting our second child in October and I plan to use this summer to get the house ready for the new baby. Eric will be moving out of his old room and into a big boy room. While I’m sad to see him move from the only room he has ever known, he’s excited to make room for his baby. Katz suggests having your children help paint around the house. Eric loves to paint, but I would have never thought to let a toddler help paint the walls. I can’t wait to see his excitement when I tell him he will be helping Mommy and Daddy with the upcoming paint projects. It’s also never too late to plan a family vacation. Summer is my favorite time to travel and even though some places can get crowded, time spent with family is always time well spent. Be it a long weekend getaway or a week in paradise, family vacations are what memories are made out of. We recently got back from our first Disney trip as a family. Eric is a huge Mickey fan and couldn’t wait to meet him in person. The look on his face when seeing Mickey for the first time is a memory I will never forget. The pure joy and excitement in my three-year-old’s eyes made waiting in every long line well worth it. Another great article in this month’s issue is Bunking Up: Strategies for RoomSharing Success, by Malia Jacobson. The majority of my childhood was spent sharing a room, and while there were times when I longed for my own space I wouldn’t have traded the time with my sisters for the world. I come from a very close family and I definitely believe sharing a room played a big part in the bond I share with my two sisters today. We have yet to determine the gender of our new addition, but if it’s a boy we will certainly consider letting our children share a room once the baby is old enough. I hope you all enjoy this issue as much as I do and have a great summer vacation!
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adph.org/teenpregnancyprevention 3 Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013 Visit www.MobileBayParents.com Adapted from a resource developed by the National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy.
Living With Children
By John Rosemond
Supporting Irresponsible Adult Delays Maturity Q: We have an
adult child who doesn’t want to grow up. She quit college after two years and moved across the country. As we anticipated, she’s having difficulty supporting herself. In fact, she doesn’t have a job and seems to have no real motivation to get one. Her mother, my husband’s ex-wife, thinks we should be sending her a monthly allowance to help with her rent and food. We have kept her on our health insurance, but feel that sending her money would equate to approving her poor choices and unacceptable lifestyle. What would you do?
arrangement, one that you should not participate in. She isn’t going to learn how to deal with life’s realities if you make it possible for her to be both irresponsible and care-free. Decisions of this sort are riddled with guilt and self-doubt. They are the toughest of parental decisions, in fact. Hang tough, and remember that life’s most valuable lessons are learned the hard way.
Q: My 10-year-old daughter is having thoughts about other girls. She says she’s worried because she notices and admires other girls’ figures. I know this is normal, but I’m not really sure what to say to her. She seems to be obsessing about it. What’s your advice?
A: I’d do what you’re doing. Legally,
A: You should tell her what you you are under no obligation to support already know to be true: It’s perfectly an adult child, and supporting an irnormal for a pre-teen girl to admire responsible adult child will only further other girl’s bodies. Point out to her that delay her maturity. It may be what she adult men admire other men’s bodies wants, and it is surely going to make her and adult women admire other women’s life temporarily more comfortable, but bodies. Admiration and sexual attraction it is not what she needs, not in the long are two entirely different things. run. Her mother is obviously addicted It’s also fairly normal for pre-teens to enabling, and the girl is obviously to experience a moderate amount of addicted entitlements. a toxic Acne ESPto ad 4/12/13 This 6:59is AM Page 1 obsessive thinking about one thing or
another. Their tendency to worry about themselves probably has to do with changes going on in brain chemistry and cognitive abilities as well as related changes in self-concept. In that regard, it’s important that you not make this a topic of frequent conversation. The more you talk with her about it, no matter how understanding and reassuring you are, the more obsessing she’s likely to do. Say what you have to say, and then tell her something along these lines: “This is not something we need to keep talking about. In fact, the more we talk about it, the more you’re going to think about it, and the more you’re going to worry about it. I’ve said all I have to say, so let’s make an agreement that this is the last conversation we’re going to have about this.” She’s looking to you for indication of whether this is important or not. If you act like it’s not worth talking about, she’ll eventually stop worrying about it—eve¬ntually being the operative word. At that point, because she’s a pre-teen, she’ll probably start worrying about something else. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
Is acne leaving it’s mark on you?
If you are 12-40 years of age and suffer from moderate to severe acne, you may be eligible to participate in a clinical research study. Qualified participants will receive study medication and study-related doctors’ exams and reimbursement for time and travel.
Call Coastal Clinical Research today to find out more! 251-414-1984 mail@ccr-research.com Apply online at www.coastalclinicalresearch.com Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
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BIRTHING SUITES SO SPACIOUS, THEY COVER A LIFETIME.
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This is the day to begin all days. So Infirmary Health provides more. More room in our birthing suites. More hospitals and clinics around the bay. More for your family’s health that first day and in all the days to come.
More, devoted to your care. infirmarylaboranddelivery.com Thomas Hospital - North Baldwin Infirmary - Mobile Infirmary Visit www.MobileBayParents.com
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
bits & pieces Walk for Cystic Fibrosis to be Held at Five Rivers
Great Strides is the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s largest fund-raising event. Walk day is a fun, family-oriented celebration that includes a healthy 3 mile walk, Kids’ Corner activities, food, and festivities that participants look forward to year after year. The location for the walk will be Five Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Mobile Bay Causeway, on May 18. Check-in/Registration 8 a.m, Walk Start 9 a.m. For more information please visit www.cff.org/great_strides/ or contact: Tiffany Miller, Development Director, 251-436-0015 or email at tmiller@cff.org.
Cocktails with the Critters
Environmental Center Open House to Offer Fun Activities for Whole Family
Cocktails with the Critters, the major On Saturday, May 4, the Environmental Studies Center will conduct its annual fundraiser for the Spring Open House from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Admission is Dauphin Island Sea FREE! Come enjoy many activities for the whole family. Lab Foundation, will be Ongoing Activities will include: Environmental Fair, Nature Thursday, May 2, from 6 Walks, Nature Crafts, Wildlife Lectures, Exhibit Talks, Starlab – 9 p.m. at Tacky Jacks on Show, Moon Walk, Reptile Show, Animal Exhibits, Face the Causeway. This will Painting, Gift Shop, Bake Sale, Ice Cream, and Concessions be an exciting evening Sales. Raptor Show at noon. The Environmental Studies Center overlooking Mobile Bay is located at 6101 Girby Road, between Burns Middle School and enjoying the lively and USA Knollwood Park Hospital. The event is sponsored by inspired sounds of the Sponsored by Evonik Industries and Pleasant Valley Opportunity Club. Modern Eldorados. Tacky Jacks will be serving fabulous and tasty hors d’oeuvres and wine and beer. There will be a silent auction, and Special Sponsored by the Alabama State Treasury Office, CollegeCounts, Alabama’s Guest Appearance by 529 Fund, is a program that provides flexible investment options specifically celebrated Artist, Stig designed to give families a tax-advantaged way to build college savings. Marcussen, on hand to On May 29, CollegeCounts will be celebrating 529 Day to better educate add color to his limited Alabamians about college savings. The CollegeCounts Facebook page will be edition prints. Tickets: giving away one $529 account prize every Friday in May leading up to 529 $50 in advance $55 Day. Then, on May 29 (5/29), one $2,529 account grand prize will be given at the door. For more away. This “cash” goes straight into the winner’s 529 account to help pay information or to purchase for college expenses. The money you’ve saved with CollegeCounts can be tickets, please visit http:// used nationwide at most accredited colleges and universities as well as trade sealabfoundation.org/ schools and graduated schools. For more info about CollegeCounts, visit www. cocktails_with_the_ CollegeCounts529.com or call 866.529.2228. critters
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CollegeCounts-Alabama’s 529 Fund to Hold Giveaways in May
Sunny Side Theater Presents “Annie”
Sunny Side Theater announces its upcoming production of Annie. This tale is sure to bring parents back to their childhood and open children's eyes to the wonderful world of musical theater. Following the Sunny Side Theater philosophy, all children who auditioned received parts and everyone is involved in multiple aspects of the play! Public performances are Thursday, May 2 at 6:30 p.m., Friday, May 3 at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, May 4 at 2 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 5 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 adults, $8 ages 13-19, and $5 for 12 and under. Performances take place at the Moorer Center for the Performing Arts located on the St. Luke's High School campus, 1600 University Boulevard. School shows are Thursday at 9 a.m. and Friday at 9 and 11 a.m. Call owner/director Chris Paragone at 251-510-1808 for more details or e-mail dramacamp@mindspring.com to make a reservation. www.azaleacityarts.com. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
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Commedia del Arte – The Original Tale of Peter Pan
Commedia del Arte Presents The Original Tale of Peter Pan. Join Wendy, Michael, and John on the adventure of a lifetime as they fly into Neverland with Peter Pan and Tinkerbell. Join us for this classic adventure at the Tillman's Corner Community Center (5055 Carol Plantation Road) on May 4, at 7 p.m. Encore Performance: May 19, 4:30 p.m., in partnership with The Mobile County Community Activities Acting Class. The location will be the Davidson High School Lecture Hall. A portion of all proceeds goes to support The National Federation of the Blind. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www. commediadelarte.org or call 251 510-0654.
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The American Heart Association Announces 2013 Heart Ball
The American Heart Association’s 2013 Mobile Heart Ball, titled The King and Queen of Hearts, will take place on Thursday, May 2, from 6-10 p.m. at Fort Whiting in Mobile. The event will include live and silent auctions, music by Figure 8, decadent food, wine and signature drinks and the much-anticipated crowning of the King and Queen of the Heart Ball. Some of Mobile’s leading citizens will compete to raise funds for the Heart Ball in the Mobile community. The Court members announced to the media are as follows: Men: Mr. Ricardo Woods with Burr & Forman LLP, Mr. Jim Riis with Hanson Pipe and Precast and Mr. André Rathle, President of the Athelstan Club. Women: Mrs. Helen Moore with Claude Moore Jewelers, Mrs. Ashley Ashbee, wife of John Barry Ashbee, Mrs. Miriam Morrow, wife of Dr. John Andrew Morrow, Jr., Mrs. Jan Greer Endfinger, Director of Human Resources and Marketing for Greers Markets and Ms. Lakeisha Dotson, candidate for City Council District 2. Funds raised through the Court, sponsorships, auctions and ticket sales will remain in the Alabama Gulf Coast community and support research, awareness and prevention of heart disease and stroke. The 2013 Heart Ball will specifically focus on the support of pediatric cardiology and feature Grace Moore, daughter of Mrs. Helen Moore, as the “Face of Heart”. Grace received a life-saving heart transplant at 17 days old and is now a thriving 6 year old. For more information about the 2013 Heart Ball, to purchase tickets ($100) or reserve a table ($1,000) or to donate towards a Heart Ball Court member, please contact Christina Quick, Senior Regional Director, at 228604-5314 or christina.quick@heart.org or visit www.heart.org/mobileheartball.
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
bits & pieces
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Vince Gill to Perform Fundraising Concert for Homeless Shelter
If you've often felt something needed to be done to help the homeless, now is your chance to get involved. The Waterfront Rescue Mission is building a new campus at Congress and Washington streets that will expand its capacity to house and feed the homeless and treat those with addiction problems. 15 Place will be partnering with the WRM to provide health care, counseling and other services at the facility. Your contribution is critically needed and will help create hope and opportunity for a brighter tomorrow for Mobile's homeless men, women and children. Please visit our website https://www.waterfrontmission. org/donate for more information. On May 2 at 6 p.m. Vince Gill will be performing "an intimate concert" at the Alabama Cruise Terminal to help raise funds for the new shelter. The performance will be an intimate evening of music. For ticket information visit vincegillmobile.com.
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MAWSS Watercolor Contest for Students
Students K-12 are invited to enter the Mobile Area Water and Sewer System’s “Fun with Water” Watercolor Contest. Original watercolor artwork should portray your favorite summertime activity involving water. All artwork submitted will be displayed at Bel Air Mall from June 10-24. Winners, including an overall winner, will be chosen from of our different categories: Grades K-2nd, 3rd – 5th, 6th – 8th and 9th – 12th. The cool prize? Gift certificates to Bel Air Mall and winning artwork on permanent display at the Catherine Street location. And, the Grand Prize Winner’s school or organization will receive a gift certificate as well. Complete an entry form from http://www.mawss.com/watercolorcontestwinners.html and submit your watercolor in person to Bel Air Mall Customer Service Center. Entry deadline: June 7, 2013.
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2013 Gallery of Gardens Tour Showcases Mobile’s Private Gardens
Explore seven local private gardens and discover new ideas for your own May 3-4 at this year’s Gallery of Gardens tour! Experience garden diversity as you tour homes in Spring Hill, Old Dauphinway, and Midtown Mobile. This year, the entire street of Flo-Claire is joining in the spirit and sprucing up their front yards for the tour! As you visit each garden, look for Plein Air artists painting on site, and feature plants that will be available in the MBG MarketPlace. Master Gardeners will be at each location to give visitors descriptions of the gardens and highlight ideas they can use at home. Tour and MarketPlace hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 day of. Advance tickets may be purchased at the Mobile Botanical Gardens office or MarketPlace, online at www.mobilebotanicalgardens. org, or at any of the participating ticket outlets. Group rates are available to groups of ten or more. For more information call (251) 342-0555 or visit www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org.
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Wales West Light Railway Announces New Train Show
Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway is set to begin “The Great Train Robbery”, a new interactive train show modeled after classic stories of the Wild West and its penchant for exciting characters and adventures. Beginning April 20th, young cowboys and cowgirls can be a part of a real Wild West experience. They will be passengers on a real steam engine train as the Beaver Gulch Gang on horseback stops the train and steals the Wales West payroll. Participants will earn a badge by helping nab the dirty varmints and throwing them in jail. Then they’ll kick back in the saloon as they enjoy free snacks and collect their well-deserved reward! The Great Train Robbery will be open Saturdays, April 20th & 27th and May 4th & 11th, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The cost will be $15 per person, with children 13 months and under free. Participants will also receive a free sheriff’s badge and hat. Wales West is located on County Road 9, 1.2 miles south of County Road 48, or 2.5 miles north of County Road 32 near Silverhill.
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With life insurance, the benefits live on. Allison Horner, Agent 6353 Cottage Hill Road, Suite F Bus: 251-666-1616 Fax: 251-666-6919 allison@allisonhorner.com www.allisonhorner.com
There are also benefits now. I’ll show you how life insurance can come in handy for more immediate family needs, like college. GET TO A BETTER STATE. CALL ME TODAY. ®
2013 cla summer camps june – august / member discounts available cla.gibson@cityofmobile.org / 251 208 5658 learn more at centreforthelivingarts.com
State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI) State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI) Bloomington, IL 1203076
Visit www.MobileBayParents.com
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
bits & pieces Fundraiser to Help Create a Legacy Through Adoption
Adoption Rocks is a non-profit agency located in Mobile. We are dedicated to loving, embracing and enabling women with unplanned pregnancies make an incredible choice for life and supporting those who seek to build families through adoption. Adoption Rocks was founded by a group of civic leaders, adoptive parents and professionals who each had a strong concern about babies being born to single mothers and decreasing rates of infant adoptions in Alabama, especially Mobile and Baldwin counties of Alabama. A fundraiser to benefit Adoption Rocks will be held on May 7. Please join us for wine and tapas in support of ADOPTION ROCKS. The fundraiser will be held at Legacy Bar and Grill (9 Du Rhu Dr., Mobile) from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tickets are $50. Reservations – www.adoptionrocks.net (payment by paypal) or by mail Adoption Rocks P.O. Box 82232 Mobile, Alabama 36689. When paying by check, please include your telephone number or email to receive confirmation. For more information, please call (251) 639-4148 or visit www.adoptionrocks.net.
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South Alabama March for Babies – 75th Anniversary
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It's America's favorite walking event! When you walk, you give hope to the babies born too soon or sick. The money you raise supports programs in your community that help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies, and it funds research to find answers to the serious problems that threaten our babies. There are plenty of opportunities for day-of-event exposure, activation and education - not to mention opportunities to meet hundreds of others who are just like you. Please come support this event on Saturday, May 4 at 5 Rivers Delta at 30751 Five Rivers Blvd in Spanish Fort. The walk time is at 9 a.m. and registration and opening ceremony are at 8 a.m. For more information please visit us on facebook or http://www.marchforbabies.org.
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64th Annual St. Margaret's Blessing of the Fleet
The 64th Annual St. Margaret’s Blessing of the Fleet in Bayou La Batre, is slated for Saturday, May 4 and Sunday May 5, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. both days. The popular community event will be held on the grounds of St. Margaret’s Catholic Church, which is located at 13790 South Wintzell Avenue in Bayou La Batre. Festival admission is free. This year’s event will include a wide selection of family-friendly activities throughout the weekend, including long-time festival traditions and exciting new features. Throughout the weekend, festival-goers can enjoy arts and crafts booths; live entertainment from local performing groups, children’s activities, train rides, bayou boat tours, bingo and more. A new feature this year will be a certified 4-mile run on Saturday morning. On Saturday, there will also be a Gumbo Cook-off from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and kayaking will be available throughout the day. Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Sunday. The Blessing of the Fleet land parade will begin at 2 p.m. and will be immediately followed by the boat parade. The official Fleet Blessing will be conducted by the Most Reverend Thomas J. Rodi, Archbishop of Mobile. The land parade and boat parade are open to anyone who would like to participate and here is no fee. Additional details and registration forms are available at FleetBlessing.org and facebook.com/ FleetBlessingBayouLaBatre. For more information call 251-824-2415 or email fleetblessing@aol.com.
AOC Golf Invitational to Benefit Victory Health Partners
The 15th Annual AOC Charity Golf Invitational will be held at Azalea City Golf Course on Friday, May 10th. ALL proceeds will benefit Victory Health Partners. Victory Health Partners provides affordable, quality healthcare services to those that may not otherwise afford access. Lunch will be provided to all participants before the tournament. Registration begins at 11 a.m., lunch at 11:30 a.m. and a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Hole Sponsorships are available for this incredible ministry. Hole sponsors have an opportunity to bring and set up a tent to “host” the hole they are sponsoring. This is an excellent opportunity to visit with our golfers by providing marketing materials, snacks and/or beverages. The format will be a “4-Man Shamble”. There will be a $10,000 hole in one contest, a putting contest, four (4) closest to the pin prizes and prizes for the 1st & 2nd place teams with the best gross & net scores. To register or sponsor a hole, please contact Sabrina Alexander at (251) 410-3654 or sabrina_alexander@alortho.com.
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
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Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group
Takin’ on the Jellies
Since our recent Spring Break weather in April was fairly cold and unworthy of beach time, we can all look forward to the much warmer months coming up. And in paying homage to Marlin, Dory, and Crush (Finding Nemo-stay with me people), it’s time to review our basic knowledge of our friendly Gulf Coast jellyfish. Those of us who have lived on the Gulf Coast know that invariably at some point in the summer months, we will see the smaller golf ball-sized jelly fish floating in the shallow waters. We’ve also seen the larger very clear jellyfish that have washed up on shore or in your 8-year-old son’s pail that he’s supposed to be using for shells, sandcastles, etc. What most of us probably don’t do is bring any supplies to aid in a serious jellyfish sting. What did our parents always tell us to do? Maybe you’ve been told to urinate on a sting, put cold water on it or ice it down for pain. Let’s dispel some of the myths of jellyfish sting treatments. First though, what is actually stinging us? As Marlin from Finding Nemo has told us, the heads don’t sting us but the tentacles do! The tentacles are covered with very tiny spine covered tubules called nematocysts. They easily latch on to our skin and with little to no provocation, inject a toxin that at minimum stings, and at maximum can cause even deadly side effects. Most of us have experienced the sting and have seen patches of red raised bumps at the site of pain. Usually they are so few that we ignore them and are only
reminded of them when we get in the shower later in the day. A few of us have actually had entire tentacles attached to our bodies which, of course, is even more painful. Most side effects will be limited to local areas of pain and itch. Some may experience nausea, vomiting, or dizziness. For severe reactions like swelling of the face, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. What should you do for your child if they have a significant jellyfish sting or contact? First and foremost, do not use your bare hand to remove any tentacle pieces as you will only sting yourself in the process. Use a shell, stick, credit card, or towel to remove the tentacle. Rinse the area with seawater several times. Fresh cold water is not recommended as it will change the lingering tonicity of the water surrounding the remaining nematocysts and will cause any remaining barbs to fire. Then, if vinegar or hot water is not available, and like me, you didn’t bring any topical numbing agent, you can place hot sand over the area. The heat will help break down the toxin in the skin decreasing the chances for more severe side effects. If after your initial seawater rinse a hot shower is available, put your child in the shower. No scalding please, but it must be hot for it to be effective. If grandma and grandpa invited you to the beach house and you can scamper to the kitchen for some vinegar, baking soda, or meat tenderizer, these agents can be poured over the sting after rinsing with seawater. They change the
pH of the water surrounding the nematocysts and will inactivate the toxin. Common myths about jellyfish sting treatments include urinating on the lesion, putting a cold compress on the area or rinsing with cold water. I even came across a suggestion to rub chewing tobacco on the area...gross! Please don’t attempt these as they will be of no help. Finally, there are several over-the-counter products that can offer topical pain relief. Most have a combination of an antihistamine for itch and lidocaine to help numb the area. As seawater for rinsing and hot sand for toxin deactivation are always available at the time of a sting, these topical products might be the one thing that we all should be better about carrying with us to the beach. Have a great summer at the beach, and if you see the jellyfish in the water, just keep swimming, just keep swimming to a safer area. Mike Little, D.O. is Board Certified with the American Board of Pediatrics since 2005. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics since 2005. Mike is married to Dixie, his high school sweetheart, and has two children, Carolyn (12) and Nathan (8). Dr. Little practices medicine at the Airport Boulevard office of Children’s Medical Group.
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Pearl Haskew Holds Ceremony for National Elementary Honor Society Members
Pearl Haskew Elementary School established a chapter of the National Elementary Honor Society (NEHS) and held a ceremony to recognize their most outstanding students March 22. Theodore High School Principal Ronald Rowell was guest speaker at the event. He encouraged the students to continue their path of academic excellence, make wise choices, and never to give up on their dreams and aspirations. The National Elementary Honor Society (NEHS) is a student organization designed to recognize outstanding elementary students who demonstrate excellence in scholarship and responsibility. Chapters of NEHS work to develop leadership and promote service to the school and community for their members. "We inducted 40 students at our first induction ceremony and we are excited about the opportunities this will provide our students," said Susan White, principal. "Our students will be taught leadership skills and will participate in many community service projects as part of NEHS requirements." The National Elementary Honor Society joins the National Honor Society and the National Junior Honor Society as the nation's premier organizations recognizing outstanding students who demonstrate excellence in the areas of scholarship, responsibility, leadership, service, citizenship, and character. Front Row: Tyler Morgan, Gabriel Hunt, Allison Cumbie, Kayleigh Wells, Brooklyn Poole, Bailey Burrell, Hayleigh Hopper, Julia Parker, Summer Hendrix, Dariah Summerlin, Macy Morgan, Heather Soutullo, Christopher Henderson. Middle Row: Cameron Bosarge, Peyton Leonhardt, Hannah Cassidy, Dustin Hilburn, Xander Smith, Ricardo Torres, Ava Parent, Hannah Nelson, Alex Chinners. Back Row: Robyn Terry (Chapter Adviser), Ronald Rowell (Principal, Theodore High School), Alexis Tunstall, Justin Smith, Andrew Stone, Jayden Morgan, Austin Boyd, Claudia Woodyard, Jack McKeever, Camden Reed, Jordan Porter, Madison Jeffery, Dominik Atwood, Ryan Maples, Susan White (Principal, Pearl Haskew).
Mary Montgomery HS Proud of Public Speaking Students
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McNeill, and Gerald Crawford.
Mary G. Montgomery High School is proud to recognize the achievements of Mrs. Skelton’s public speaking students. Kyle O’Shea placed second in the Optimist Club Boys’ Oratorical Competition held on March 14. Andrea McNeill was a runner-up in the Optimist Club Girls’ Oratorical Competition held on March 7. Gerald Crawford placed third at the American Legion State of Alabama Third Division Oratorical Competition in Montgomery on March 2. Mrs. Skelton and her students would also like to thank Mrs. Sheri Mullin, retired language arts teacher from Baker High School, for her dedication and encouragement in preparing for these competitions. In the picture seated from left to right- teacher Christina E. Skelton and retired Baker teacher Sheri Mullin; Standing from left to right - students Kyle O'Shea, Andrea
St. Ignatius Students Compete in Woodmen of the World Speech Contest
5th -8th grade students competed in the Woodmen of the World Speech contest, April 10 at St. Ignatius Catholic School. Each class competed and the top performers competed in front of the entire student body and three judges. Pictured left to right front to back: 3rd place, Celia D’Olive; 1st place Clair Frazier Bolton; 2nd place Mary Olivette Bookman; Sherry Knight, Gentevia Health Services; Fr. Steven Hellman, St. Ignatius Church and Devon Walsh, WKRG. Visit www.MobileBayParents.com
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
S t E.R. Dickson Places in Faulkner State Computer Fair
Congratulations to E. R. Dickson students, Akanksha Rawat and Summerlinn O’Gwynn for 1st place and honorable mention in the Individual General Applications Category at the Faulkner State Community College 2013 Computer Fair. E. R. Dickson represented Mobile County by sending 20 students to compete with 12 observers. They are all part of E. R. Dickson’s Tiger Technology Team. Students from public and private schools in both Baldwin County and Mobile County participated in the competition. Congratulations to E. R. Dickson for placing in the competition! A big thank you goes out to the team sponsors; Lisa Morris, Sara King, Aimee Steele, and Leigh Roberts. Way to go E. R. Dickson.
Citronelle Band Scores Superior State Ratings On March 15th the Citronelle band went to State Music Assessment at Baker High School and received superior ratings on stage and in sight reading. This marks the third time in the past 5 years the band has received superior ratings at State. This is also the first time in eight years the band received superior ratings in all of the events they have participated in. Congratulations on your hard work.
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Theodore Students Tie for Citrin Safety Award
The Citrin Safety Foundation is pleased to announce that due to the exceptional quality and artistic creativity of entries, the Windshield Film Contest has resulted in a tie between two contestants. Therefore, one winning entry will be used to create the windshield film sticker for automobiles and the other winning entry will be used as a design for a Citrin Safety Foundation T-shirt. The $1,000 award will be split among these two art entries. The winning recipients are Kaitlyn Allen from the Alabama School of Math and Science and the team of Darren Fields and Tiffany Taylor from Theodore High School. Congratulations! All entries were viewed without name of artist(s) or his/her school known to judges. Deciding votes were cast by a group of judges consisting of Citrin Safety Foundation volunteers, teachers and high school students, all of whom have no connection with schools that had students submitting artwork. We wish to express our gratitude to all students who participated in the contest.
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Congratulations to Causey National Honor Society Students
Causey Middle School held their National Junior Honor Society induction on March 22nd. The following students were inducted: Left to right- First Row Collin Reusser, Dayana Soria-Silva, Hana Roberts, Lily Kumar, Paige Walston, Tyler Free, Hannah Davis, Rachel Zodrow, T’erra Williams; Second row Jackson Christian, Trent Webb, Alexander Houle, Gabrielle Trosclair, Jamie Hall, Emily Kimball, Beth Boquet, Aaliyah O’Cain, Tyler McVey, Esmeralda Cervantes.
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Williamson Wins 1st Annual BayBears Charities Tournament
Congratulations to the Williamson High School Baseball team for winning the first annual BayBears Charities Inner City Tournament at Hank Aaron Stadium in March. The Lions defeated Blount High School 8 - 7 in the first game of the tournament and defeated B.C. Rain with a score of 10 -4 in the championship game. Kudos to Kyree Sykes, the tournament MVP. In the championship game he gave up only three hits while striking out 8 batters. He also had an RBI triple. Javouris Beard also had a three RBI triple in the game. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
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Semmes Athlete Invited to U.S. Soccer Federation Training Center
Congratulations to Semmes Middle School 8th grader Hannah Moody! She has received an invitation to attend the U.S. Soccer Federation Training Center in Atlanta for possible inclusion into the U.S. Soccer Youth National Team program. Hannah is currently a player on the varsity soccer team at Mary G. Montgomery High School.
Castlen Student Named Overall Community Service Winner
Castlen’s Red Ribbon Leadership Award winner, Jada Deakle, was selected by the Drug Education Council as the overall winner for community service. Jada chose the Salvation Army’s Christmas Feast as the beneficiary of her project. Along with her classmates, counselor and family, Jada and company designed and produced over 500 placemats for this very special annual event. Jada serves on student council, is in the PACE program and is a member of the math team at Castlen.
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Covenant Christian Students Bring Home Multiple Medals from Middle School Track Championship
At the Middle School Track Championship Meet at St. Luke's High School in March, Covenant Christian had 14 of their 28 track athletes win a medal with numerous athletes winning multiple medals. Pictured are some of the medalists. From left to right and top to bottom: Jackson Burkhalter, Ethan Williams, Jake Dale, Ben Higdon, Andrew Hii, Jolena Farrish, Abby Locklier, Katherine Rush, Jenna Harvey, Camille Tims, Paige Harvey, and Abbe Wentland.
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Life Institute Christian School Holds Black History Program
On Tuesday, February 26th, the students at the Life Institute Christian School in Chickasaw, in grades 1 – 8, recently participated in their 12th Annual Oratorical Contest. Winners pictured Left to right: Carmeedra Spears (7th grade) - 3rd Place, Covey Richardson (7th grade) - 2nd Place, Ezra Stephen - 1st Place (6th grade).
Sea Cadets Hold Drill at Space Center
D. R. Dunlap Division of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps held its March drill at Stennis Space Center with the Special Boat Team Twenty-Two on Saturday, March 16. The cadets received boat and Humvee rides, giving them an in-depth hands-on view of these vehicles in operation, followed by instructions on weapons handling and basic medical procedures. The cadets took what they learned from the medics and participated in mock scenarios. The CPR/First Aid was done in a manner that was not only fun but very informative. The crew of STB22 did an outstanding job working with our unit as well as taking the time to share with the cadets the value of hard work and requirements necessary to become a part of such an elite team. Cadets learn seagoing skills aboard Navy and U.S. Coast Guard ships and shore activities that emphasize patriotism, courage, self-reliance, team work, leadership skills, accountability, military training that builds character, and for some, helping those transiting into a military career. They are even authorized by the Secretary of the Navy to wear Navy uniforms marked with the Sea Cadet Corps insignia. The program is open to the community for young men and women ages 10 to high school graduation with open enrollment year round. The Sea and League Cadets drill together one weekend a month at the United States Coast Guard Aviation Training Center in Mobile. Upon completion of training as a Sea Cadet, the young men and women cadets are under no obligation to enlist in any of the armed forces. However, if they decide to enlist, they are usually eligible to enlist at an advanced pay grade. Participation in the Sea Cadets is also a positive factor in the awarding of ROTC scholarships. If you are interested in the Sea or League Cadet program and how they may join or by volunteering as an adult leader, visit our Division website www.drdunlap.org or our national website www.seacadets.org. You may also follow our local unit page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DunlapDivison. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
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Knollwood Christian School Inducts New Members into Jr. National Honor Society
On March 7th, Knollwood Christian School inducted 13 new members into the Jr. National Honor Society. We are very proud of the new members and all of their hard work! Pictured proudly left to right are: Row 1: Abigail Montgomery, Annaleise Brown, Rachel Huntley, Alyssa Smith, and Allie Cancel. Row 2: Bethany Klussman, Cole Lincoln, Caleb Gartman, Rowan Bruton, and Haley Spencer . Row 3: Celine Curry, Ashlyn Long, and Adam Huntley.
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Corpus Christi School Basketball Team Wins Local Tournament
Corpus Christi Catholic School had a fantastic basketball season! The following teams won: 2nd grade girls won the Tapia Tournament held at Corpus Christi School. Our 3rd grade boys’ and girls’ teams finished first at the tournament hosted by Little Flower school. Finally, the team of 4th grade boys were the runner-up at the Little Flower tournament. Pictured, l-r, is the winning 3rd grade girls’ team: Front Row: Avery Arendall, Katey Miller, Regan Hickman, Madison Langham, Ava Murphy; Back Row: Coach Melvin Cole, Anna Taylor, Jo Burns, Payton Barrett, Coach Vic Miller.
St. Luke 8th Graders Hide Eggs for Kindergartners
Each year the 8th grade class at St. Luke's look forward to the traditional Easter egg hunt...not because they get to FIND the eggs but because they get to HIDE the eggs! The annual 8th Grade/K5 Bigs and Littles program has been a tradition at the school for years, so when the Middle School students moved to the University Campus a few years ago the school made adjustments to ensure that the K5 and 8th grade students could continue the program. Students are now transported back and forth to the opposite campus for special events and opportunities to visit with each other. As a part of the Easter Egg Hunt the eighth graders hide hundreds of eggs in the Quad on the University Campus and then await the arrival of the kindergarten students who will get to search for them. Make no doubt about it...the BIGS and the LITTLES always have a great time! Pictured are eighth graders Riley Nettes, Jeremy Thompson and Kaylee Ward with their little brothers and sister Pace Barnard, Max Kerr, and Avery Eblen.
St. Dominic Named Regional Champions of Technology and Computer Science Fair
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St. Dominic Catholic School recently participated in the 29th Annual Southeast and Southwest Regional Technology and Computer Science Fair held at Faulkner State. Students in grades 3 – 8 competed in several categories including, General Applications, Group and Individual; Multimedia, Group and Individual; Website Creation, Group; Video Production, Group and Individual; Hardware/Robotics, Individual and Literacy. The school had 16 winning entries and was named 2013 Regional Champions. Pictured with Mrs. Laurie Michener, Team Coordinator (back, right) are (front row, l –r) Trent Prescott, John Thomas Cumpton, Marianna Jordan, Katelyn Previto, Cole Blaise Hall, Hanna Johnson, Heather Lawley, Keegan Haik, Lauren Wilson, Jillian Lami and Maribeth Reilly, (back row, l –r) Cecily Davis, Joseph O’Shea, Cameron Swann, Natalie Grimes, Andrew Tant, Michael Toland, Alyssa Barnes, Anne Marie Luckie, and Jules Sullivan.
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UMS-Wright Preparatory School Raises Money for St. Jude During Math-a-thon
The UMS-Wright lower school students raised $9931.75 for St. Jude’s Annual Math-a-thon. The following students raised over $200 each. Bottom row (left to right): Blakeslee Elliott and David Bell; 2nd row (left to right): Jake Thomann, Christopher Brock, Harris Cooper, Palmer Whiting, and Sarah Webster; Top row (left to right): Emma Hwang, Jayne Isabelle Ladas, Helena Ladas, Loie Whiting, Aynsley McCain, and Mary Frances Wood. Not pictured: Cecelia Connally.
Phillips Preparatory Collects Items for Food Bank
Phillips Preparatory Student Council held a food drive in March with the proceeds benefiting the Mobile Bay Area Food Bank. They collected 286 pounds of non-perishable items which were enough meals for 220 individuals and families in need.
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Little Flower Catholic School Holds Spring Fling
Little Flower Catholic School's annual Spring Fling was held Saturday, April 13. The school's campus was filled with entertainment for the entire family with fun ranging from a dunking booth, to a classic car display by the Mobile Bay Mustang Club, to line dancing, and a giant inflatable slide. Proceeds from the day will help defray the cost of improving the technology department and the Accelerated Reader program at Little Flower School. Spring Fling committee members who met to finalize plans for the event included (left to right) JoJo Schwarzauer, Kimberly McCaine, and Anita Barnett.
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St. Dominic Inducts New Honor Society Members
St. Dominic Catholic School recently inducted 28 new members in the National Junior Honor Society. Meeting the established criteria of scholarship, leadership, service, citizenship and character are Boys (front row, l – r) Garrett Brooks, Ben Ankersen, Mauricio Washington, Garrett Burden, Brantley Rowe, Jennings Clayton, (back row, l – r) Jacob Brooks, Nicholas Dunwell, Christopher Hites, William Blake, Joseph Brown, Sam Rehm, Matthew Niccolai. Girls (front row l – r) Destiny Tindle, Maribeth Reilly, Marianna Jordan, Jillian Lami, Kendall Waltman, Lauren Wilson, Madeleine Greenwood, (back r, l – r) Anna Ryan, Alyssa Barnes, Alecia Wells, Nicole Murray, Claire Cazalas, Rachael Forbes, Reagan Haik, Gracie Reid.
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McDavid-Jones Students Enjoy Easter Egg Hunt
On March 28th Bethel Baptist Church sponsored an Easter Egg Hunt for some of the children at McDavidJones Elementary. Bro. Stan Clayton told the students the Easter Story. Students were treated to Pizza for lunch. To the delight of all the children Easter Eggs were hidden all along the Nature Trail at the school. We would like to thank everyone at Bethel for being such a great example to follow. Our faculty and staff are amazed at all you do for our students.
Cottage Hill Christian Academy Girls Have Great Basketball Season
This year’s varsity girls’ basketball team was an exceptionally great one! They had a 17-9 overall record for their regular season and were 6-0 in the area. This is the first winning season for the girls since joining the AHSAA in 2008. While hosting the 3A, Area 1 tournament, we defeated both W.S. Neal and T.R. Miller for the area championship. The Cottage Hill Warriors were happy to do the honors of hosting the sub regional game versus Opp. The final score was not indicative of all the effort, teamwork, and perseverance these ladies demonstrated throughout their entire season. Opp prevailed and we finished 19-10 overall. "I am very proud of the girls and believe we had a very successful season, said Coach Chason. This varsity girls’ basketball team has shown amazing talent and endurance.” This year's team includes Anna Kennedy, Erin McLaughlin, Victoria Woodruff, Rachael Howell, Jana Hendrix, Victoria Morris, and Destiny Samuels. This was a great end to their basketball career for accomplishing the goals and expectations they set for themselves. We would also like to give a special thanks to the girls basketball coaches- Coach Wright, Coach Chason, and Coach Graves- for a great job and successful year..
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Faith Publications Staff Attends CSPA Convention
March 20-22 marked the 79th annual Columbia Scholastic Press Association National Convention in New York City, and six of Faith Academy’s publications staff members and their adviser, Mrs. Shelley Mitchell, were in attendance to “soak in” all of the tips and latest trends that are being used by award-winning staffs. The three-day convention was packed with sessions on every topic from organizing a staff, photography, layout and design, to law and ethics. The trip also allowed time for the group to visit the many landmarks of the city and enjoy the delicious food of “Little Italy.” Pictured (left to right) Faith Publications staff members waiting to catch the subway are Rachel Fillingim, Macie Myrick, Ashton Daniels, Anna Breland, Molly Ward, and Hunter Sheppard.
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St. Mary Catholic School Living Stations of the Cross
St. Mary Catholic Middle School held the annual Living Stations during Holy Week on Wednesday, March 27th at 6 p.m. in St. Mary Catholic Church and Thursday, March 28th at 10:30 a.m. in Church. The students practiced for weeks under the direction of Principal, Mrs. Debbie Ollis and Assistant Principal, Mrs. Jennifer Heisler. Lead roles included: Amelia Wilson as Mary; Caleb Wilson as Jesus; Jackson Husting as Judas; KK Reynolds as Peter; K.J. Holt as Pilot; Tres Petit as the Scribe; Nicholas Carroll as Simon of Serene; Bailey Brierly as Veroncia; Barrett Reimer as James; Ellis Blackmon as John; and Caroline Favret, Aubrey Ingram, Michelle Roca, Anna Arensberg, Sophia Pace, and John Warren Smith as the Narrators. The two performances were a great success!
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St. Ignatius Hosts Guest Speakers During Lent During Lent, St. Ignatius hosted a Parish Mission about the Theology of the Body. The speakers spoke thirteen times over the few days they were here. Several of those talks were to the 7th & 8th grade students. Pictured from left to right are: Patricia Herring, Kit D’Olive, Elizabeth Courtney and Catherine Listuon.
McGill-Toolen Senior Named Scholar-Athlete of the Year in Birmingham
McGill-Toolen Catholic Senior Carmen Carlos was the recipient of the Larry D. Striplin, Jr., Scholar-Athlete of the Year Award at the 28th annual Bryant-Jordan Student Athlete Awards Banquet at the Birmingham Sheraton Hotel. 96 high school regional honorees were recognized and awarded approximately $1 million in scholarships. Carlos, who has won 17 individual state track and cross country championships and helped win two other firsts in relay events, is the most decorated distance runner in AHSAA state history. The salutatorian of the McGill-Toolen Class of 2013, she is an AP Scholar of honor with a 4.27 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) and a 33 on her ACT college entrance exam, a member of the National Honor Society, made the President’s List for each quarter, and earned four academic letters. Carmen is pictured with Blake Byrd, the recipient of the Student Achievement Athlete of the Year Award.
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Clark-Shaw Students Compete in Annual Battle of the Books
Battle of the Books is a competition that is held each year at Clark-Shaw Magnet School. America’s Battle of the Books is a national organization that promotes this program. The process begins in August when the list of books for the spring competition is made public. The library obtains extra copies of the books and displays them on a separate shelf to encourage students to read the books. The students select teams within their language arts class and work together to prepare for the competition. This year the competition was held the first two weeks of 4th quarter. It consists of 22 questions about the books. The team with the highest score at the end of the round moves up the competition. The championship rounds end with a winning team in each grade. The 6th grade winners this year are Lauren DeMarco, Jane Han, Tyler Forney, Zoe Bosarge, Olivia Gentry. The 7th grade winners are Zimberlyn Major, Bailee Jordan, Madeline Gentry, Reagan Robinson, Brooke Graham. The 8th grade winners are Chris Robbins, Bryant James, Nadeerah AbdulAddaar, Heather Ward.
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St. Luke Students Invited to Attend Leadership Academy at U. of Alabama
A select group of high school sophomores are invited from across the state to attend the annual Capstone Leadership Academy at The University of Alabama. Students are nominated by administrators from the participating high schools in the fall and asked to submit a resume, transcript and an essay for evaluation by the Capstone Council. The Council then selects the students who will be invited to participate. St. Luke's has had three sophomore classes since expanding to include the Upper School in 2009 and for the third year in row both of the St. Luke's sophomores who have been nominated by the school to attend have been selected. Pictured are this year's attendees Matthew Holland and Anna Regan.
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Fighting Irish Alumni Give St. Vincent de Paul Spirits a Lift
During Spring Break week this April, a local group from the Notre Dame Club of Mobile and the Advocates for Catholic Education rolled up its sleeves and worked HARD for little St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School. They painted classrooms; fixed flower beds; pulled up carpet in the Computer Lab…and much more! It was some much needed assistance for a tiny school, with a tiny budget. “I was so excited when they called and told me our school had been chosen for their service project this year!” said school Principal Mary McLendon. The kids were so excited when they came back to school and saw all of the updates and beautifications around the school. The school motto ‘Start Small, Think Big!’ is very applicable here when the largest of Catholic Universities’ alumni lend a hand to the smallest of local elementary schools.
Pearl Haskew Students Win Honorable Mention at State Poster Competition
The Farm-City Committee of Alabama is designed to enhance the link between farm families and urban residents. Each year they have a statewide poster and essay contest to promote a better understanding between rural and urban people. The Alabama Farm-City poster and essay theme for 2012 was "Grown Safely. Extra Tasty." The National Farm-City Council's 2012 focus is on food safety. As farmers increase production and improve efficiency to meet the growing demand for food, consumers often are bombarded with information questioning the safety of modern agricultural practices. Congratulations to the Pearl Haskew students who won the Mobile County Poster Contest. Bailey Burrell won 1st place for grades 3-6. Natalie Escalera won 1st place for grades K-2 and Jordan Stallings won 2nd place for K-2. They were honored at a luncheon with the mayor. Natalie and Bailey then moved to the State competition where they earned honorable mention. Their picture and poster will be in the 2014 Alabama Farm-City Calendar. They were honored and received special recognition at a luncheon at the Winfrey Hotel in Birmingham. L to R: Natalie Escalera, Jordan Stallings, and Bailey Burrell. Chris Burrell is the teacher of both second grade students and the mom of Bailey Burrell.
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Lighthouse Baptist Academy Students Showcase Musical Talent
Students at Lighthouse Baptist Academy in Theodore, took part in the annual LBA Music Recital on April 4. Featuring over 80 students, the recital included performances by the school band, in its third year in existence, as well as many students who take piano lessons at the school. Pictured: LBA Band with its director, Mrs. Patti Felt.
Arnold School Students Visit Archaeology Museum
Arnold School students of Mrs. Sheppard’s World History class attended a field trip to the University of South Alabama’s Archaeology Museum. After completing a tour of the museum, the students participated in an artifact factfinding demonstration. Attending the field trip are from left, Mrs. Sheppard, Cameron Teague, Jasmine Huynh, Connor Rushing, Mitchell Chiepalich, Seth Gross, Will Atkins, and Jackson Taylor.
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Clark-Shaw Student Represents MCPSS Students at Airbus Event
Victoria Corob spoke at the Airbus Groundbreaking Ceremony on Monday, April 8. She spoke about the opportunities the Airbus facility will bring to the students of the gulf coast. Victoria is a very involved 8th grade student at Clark-Shaw Magnet School. She is a member of several school organizations including National Junior Honor Society, the Math Team, the Scholastic Challenge Team and the Ambassadors. Congratulations to Victoria on doing an excellent job expressing how the new aerospace center will impact the students of her generation.
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Baker High School Celebrates Hornet Night
Twenty one girls participated in Baker High School’s Hornet Night. Each young lady was judged for poise, talent, and interview. The winner received a $500 college scholarship. Congratulations to the following young ladies who placed in the competition from left to right: Brooke Whigham: Miss Congeniality; Madison Baxter: Second Runner up; Katie Sippel: Miss Hornet; Hadley Griffin: First Runner Up; Julianne Patterson: Third Runner Up.
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Celebration of Art at Semmes Elementary
On March 26th, Semmes Elementary held its annual Celebration of Art. Parents and community members toured the school to view artwork created by students at Semmes Elementary. The students’ artwork was on display in the classrooms and was available for purchase. All money raised from the sale of artwork will benefit the school. Winners were chosen from each grade level for best artwork. The Semmes Elementary Choir entertained visitors with their beautiful voices throughout the event. Pictured from Left to Right: Top Row: Ethan Carmadelle, Ashlynn Richardson, Kora Marshall; Bottom Row: Olivia Gordon, Kaleb Bennett-Wilkins, Ashlynn Megginson.
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Daphne East Students Work on Rugby Skills
The Mobile Area Rugby Foundation is teaching students in the elementary schools about playing Rookie Rugby. They are starting with simple drills and teaching simple rules about playing the game. Students from Springhill College are pictured teaching and enjoying interacting with the students at Daphne East. For more info about Rookie Rugby please contact Robert Corley - director@ mobilerubgy.org or Charles Dube -youth@mobilerugby.org or www.rookierubgy.com.
Corpus Christi Students Bring Home 23 Awards from Computer Science Fair
Thirty-four students from Corpus Christi Catholic School participated in the 29th Annual Computer Science Fair sponsored by Faulkner State Community College held on March 14th. CCS took home a total of 23 awards! Twelve of the student projects will go on to compete at the State Fair in April at Auburn University in Montgomery. Pictured are all of our students who competed in the fair. Left to right: Front row: Dylan Santa Cruz, Sean Wagner, Jack Steiner, Ryan Morris, Charlie Bracewell, Philip Lee, Andrew Heller, Andrew Gillis; 2nd row: Jacob Espinosa, Aaron Morris, Nicholas Gelineau, Brock Allen, Jonathon Slaby, James Ankiewicz, Bain Hebert; 3rd row: Mac Hererro, Frank Cassidy, Hannah Carter, Riley Cox, Lilli Lawrence, Aryana Suhartono, Matthew Gillis, Christian Delburn, Brody Espiritu, Zach Kuehn; Back row: Tony Mele, Griffin Bond, Rachel Brooks, Marvin Collins, Andrew Wentworth, Abigail Griffin, Abby Allen, Natalie Costanza, Christian Scott.
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Cottage Hill Christian Academy Students Buddy Up for Egg Hunt
Recently the Cottage Hill Christian Academy 8th Grade and K5 “buddies” enjoyed an exciting Easter egg hunt together. The “Big Buddy” program matches K5 students with 8th graders and together they participate in many activities throughout the year. It is a time of fun and fellowship and fosters the relationship between some of our older and younger students on campus. Pictured: (from left to right) Anna Grace Colson, Victoria Reese, Kenlinn Bedgood, Payten Watson. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
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St. Pius X Student Government Sells Breakfast at Carpool
Tuesday mornings are very busy for the SPX Student Government Association. The members of the SGA get up extra early each Tuesday morning to sell Chik-fil-a biscuits at carpool. Pictured is fifth grader Caroline Quina selling biscuits at carpool.
Saraland Elementary’s Smile Contest Winners
Saraland Elementary School recently held a smile contest, and these are the winners! Left to right: Dylan Peters and Kori Grindle; Left to right: Mason Byrd and Amber King. Congratulations, and keep smiling!
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Knollwood Christian School Student Receives Award for Volunteerism
Eighth grader, Emily Whittington has been named as Alabama's top middle school volunteer for 2013. She received the Prudential Spirit of Community Award during a special school assembly on March 7th. Pictured with Emily is the Prudential Financial Services Representative. She has received a $1,000 silver medallion and an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C.
St. Pius X Students Receive Baptism and First Communion
Ten St. Pius X students were received into the Church on Sunday, April 14, when they received the Sacrament of Baptism at the 10:30 a.m. Mass. These students included: Julian and Cecilia Camp, Saralyn and Maggie Esposito, Kadience Huggins, Bryce McLemore, James Stallworth, Madeline Bosco, Pamela Wright and Joya Kiwele. The following students received their First Communion: James Stallworth, Madeline Bosco, Maggie Esposito, Pamela Wright, Joya Kiwele, Jarod Kinsey and Will Weinecker. James Stallworth, Madeline Bosco, Maggie Exposito, Pamela Wright and Joya Kiwele were also confirmed on Sunday. Pictured are: Front row: Julian and Cecilia Camp and Kadience Huggins. Second row: Saralyn and Maggie Esposito, Madeline Bosco, Will Weinecker, and Bryce McLemore. Back row: Pamela Wright, James Stallworth, Jarod Kinsey, and Joya Kiwele.
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Congratulations to National History Day Winners from Causey
Each year participating students from across the United States, American Samoa, Guam, International Schools and Department of Defense Schools in Europe choose a topic from history that is related to the annual theme, after researching the topic it is presented as an entry. The presentation of the topic can be done as a paper, exhibit, a performance, a documentary or a website. Students are first judged on a local level, then the winning entries will advance to the state level and finally state winners move on to the national level. Congratulations to our 11 Mobile Public School winners-all from Cauesy Middle, who will go on to participate in the state competition at the Auburn University in Montgomery in April. Left to Right: Nate Smith-Mobile County Public School Social Studies Supervisor; Deborah Jones-Kuykendall-Social Studies Teacher and Department ChairCausey Middle; Kennedy Parten- 1st Place; Madison Houke-2nd Place; Rachael Conner- 3rd Place; Medelyn Rottger-HM.
Hollinger's Island Helps the Community
Keep Mobile Beautiful sponsored a bead collection contest and the students at Hollinger's Island were happy to participate! The beads were donated to Augusta Evans for their "rebundling and reselling project". Some of the top students from Hollinger's Island are pictured. Top row: Kaytlyn Coulson, Mason Karns, Nicholas Smith, Hayden & Chase Stringer. Bottom row: Stella Baggett and Brian Wiggins. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
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St. Mary Catholic School Casino Night Presents "Caesar's Palace!"
Join St. Mary Catholic School on Saturday, May 4 as St. Mary Catholic School Casino Night presents, “Caesar’s Palace!” This annual fund-raising event begins at 6 p.m. and features live and silent auctions, games with local celebrity hosts, door prizes and great food and entertainment! This always popular community event features local celebrity guests to include local media members, politicians, and community leaders. Live and silent auction items feature hundreds of items from local businesses, art work, trips, dinners, and more. Also a highlight of the event is a fabulous student art section. General admission is $25 per adult in advance & $30 at the door. Seniors are $25. Special Dinner tickets are $100 and admit two adults and give an opportunity to take home $10,000. All proceeds benefit St. Mary Catholic School. Event Sponsors, volunteers & donations for auction are welcome! St. Mary Catholic School is located at 107 N. Lafayette Street across from McGill-Toolen Catholic High School in Mobile’s Old Dauphin Way Historic District. For more information or advance tickets to these events, contact the St. Mary Catholic School office at 433-9904 or the Development Office at 4328678, ext. 3 and for all events...log on to www.stmarymobile.org! Pictured: St. Mary Catholic School volunteers and parents Laurie Kilpatrick and Connie Arensberg work the ticket table during the 2012 event.
Fonde Students' Birthday Reading Party for Dr. Seuss
On Friday, March 2, Fonde Elementary School celebrated Dr. Seuss’ birthday by participating in Read Across America. Students and teachers dressed as their favorite Dr. Seuss character and ate green eggs and ham for breakfast! Every classroom had a guest to visit and read a Dr. Seuss story. A special thank you to our guests – Mr. Donald Stringfellow, Mrs. Karen Mohr, Dr. Carolyn Taylor, Mr. Bryan Hack, Mr. Larry Mouton, Ms. Marilyn Howell, and Mrs. Martha Peek. Pictured, Mrs. Kara Howard’s kindergarten class. Mrs. Kara Howard, Superintendent Martha Peek, Ms. Katryna Lowery-Ellis.
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
UMS-Wright Preparatory School Supports Alabama Kidney Foundation
The Alabama Kidney Foundation’s Annual Walk-A-Thon was held at UMS-Wright on Saturday, March 9 and raised a total of $82,000. Pictured left are UMS-Wright student volunteers.
McDavid-Jones Mentor Helps Girls Make Bird Feeders
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During her weekly visits at McDavid-Jones, Ms. Tina Poffenbarger, a mentor for second grade girls, helped the girls make bird feeders to hang in the trees by the bird boxes. The girls painted the cans, put the beads on, tied the wire and put mealworms in the cans. They were so excited when Ms. Tina explained this would help the momma bird feed her babies. Ms. Tina has been a mentor at McDavid-Jones for three years. She also has been a volunteer for “Too Good for Drugs” program for our fifth graders for the last three years. We love Ms. Tina at McDavid-Jones. Pictured are Augusta Finch and Ms. Tina hanging the bird feeder.
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Q. My husband doesn’t like dealing with money. For years, I’ve handled everything from paying the bills to making the decisions, and he just does whatever I tell him. This makes things really hard on me, but he says financial issues cause him stress. Do you have any suggestions? A. The plain truth is you need your husband
to step up and be a man. I’m sure he’s a nice guy, but it’s unfair for you alone to carry the weight of all financial and household decisions. It would be unfair, too, if he were the one carrying it all. This isn’t a gender issue. My wife and I are involved in all the decisions in our home, and that’s especially true when it comes to money. We do a budget, and we decide together where the money’s going. It’s not a situation where she’s a little girl, and her daddy named Dave takes care of her and everything else. That’s the kind of thing you’ve got going on now. You feel like his mom rather than his wife, and that’s not what a healthy marriage is about. You need to sit down with him and explain why this is so important to you and how it makes you feel. You’re not asking him to
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be a number cruncher, but he has to grow up and become part of the team. You can play the role of CFO and write all the checks. But you and he together are the board of directors. You just need 15 to 20 minutes of his time each week, so you guys can discuss what’s going on and how to handle things—together! Q. My husband and I are on Baby Step 2 of your plan. We move every two or three years due to our jobs, so would it ever make sense in our situation to buy a house?
A. In most cases like this it doesn’t make
sense to buy a house, especially if the real estate market in your area is lethargic. Some markets have bounced back and are doing very well, while some are worse than slow. It all depends on where you’re moving. Here’s the big question: Can you get the place sold quickly the next time you have to move? Another thing to consider is whether or not you can sell it for more than it cost when the time comes. If not, you’ll be writing a check for home ownership, and that’s not a good plan. As a general rule, a two- to three-year window is not enough time to own a home.
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There are rare exceptions to this rule, places where you have a hot, escalating price market. But if you’re not careful you’ll end up leaving behind a rental property and playing landlord, whether you want to or not!
Q. I have one bill left from an emergency room visit earlier this year, and I’m trying to settle with a collections agency. They’re willing to accept half of the $930 owed, but they want me to pay online or by phone, and I don’t feel safe doing that. What should I do? A. If they’re willing to lower the bill by
half, then you need to get that in writing. If you don’t have it in writing, you don’t have a deal. And whatever you do, don’t give them any form of electronic access to your money. I’ve seen too many collectors lie to people about “agreements,” then go in and raid their accounts. Just tell them to send you, by email or regular letter, a statement saying that $465 will be accepted as payment in full for the debt. Also, tell them you’ll turn around the day you receive this letter and send them a cashier’s check for that amount. Until then, they can go jump in the lake!
Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
Bunking Up
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Strategies for SharedRoom Success by Malia Jacobson
Corey and Katey Hage’s second son, Josiah, was destined for a shared bedroom from day one. The Hages wanted him to bunk up with his older brother, Ezra, to conserve space in the family’s modestly-sized home and help the boys build a lasting bond. But reaching the goal wasn’t easy. Sleeping near a sibling took some getting used to for both boys, and the Hages spent several months moving Josiah in and out of Ezra’s room. In the end, it took three tries for the new sleeping arrangement to finally take hold. “There were times when I wondered if it would ever work,” says Katey. Their persistence paid off—Josiah and Ezra, now 3 and 5, have been happy roommates for two-and-a-half years. As bunkmates, the boys enjoy sharing a bedtime routine and chatting about their days as they drift off to sleep. They’ve learned to compromise and resolve conflict. Most importantly, they’ve learned to cherish their relationship, says Hage. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
“The idea of each child having his or her own bedroom is a fairly recent phenomenon in history,” says James J. Crist, Ph.D., psychologist and co-author of Siblings: You’re Stuck With Each Other, So Stick Together. People have shared habitats forever, so parents shouldn’t feel bad if kids need to share bedrooms, he says. In fact, sharing a bedroom with a sibling can be an irreplaceable bonding experience. And the early childhood years can be a great time to try a shared-room arrangement, because young kids haven’t had time to get used to having their own bedroom. “The younger kids start sharing a bedroom, the more normal it feels,” he says.
Small homes, big benefits
Shared bedrooms are the norm throughout much of the world, and a trend toward smaller homes is making shared bedrooms a reality for American families. The McMansions of years past are giving way to more economical, efficient abodes where afford32
ability and energy efficiency are prioritized over square footage, according to a recent survey by Better Homes & Gardens. Room sharing is a fact of life for families choosing smaller houses, or those staying put in smaller homes as their family grows, like Anna and Aaron Petersen. The family hopes to eventually add a third bedroom to their 100-year-old bungalow. But for now, 5-year-old Ephraim and 2-year-old Shiphrah share a bedroom. Though many families put kids in shared bedrooms out of necessity, it’s not a matter of making do, says Crist. Shared bedrooms can be a benefit to siblings, helping anxious kids sleep better and fostering cooperation, negotiation, and close family bonds. Some children don’t like sleeping alone and would actually prefer a shared bedroom over a solo bedroom, he notes.
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But some families will experience a few bumps on their way to room-sharing Advertising: 251-304-1200
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Happy Roomates: Making Shared Rooms Work Validate Feelings
Ask the child how they feel about sharing a room, and validate their feelings. Instead of telling kids “Too bad, you have no choice,” let them know that you understand this might bring up lots of feelings for them.
Prepare The Room
Before transitioning a sibling into a child’s bedroom, physically prepare the bedroom for its new inhabitant. Moving a crib or bed into the room in advance helps the older child get excited about the new arrangement.
Create Sacred Space
Give each child a private space within the a shared bedroom, whether it’s their own bed, a bookshelf, or a bulletin board. Let each child help decorate their private space, and designate it off-limits to sibs.
Pick Cool-Down Spots
Designate “cool-down” places in other rooms in the house where kids can take a solo break without their sib. Source: James J. Crist, Ph.D.
success. Sleep problems held up the Hage brothers’ move to a shared room. Ezra is an early riser; Josiah still needed multiple daytime naps. Ultimately, the boys were able to bunk up after Katey worked to get their sleep routines in sync. Success was all about timing, she says. “We had to get them getting up, napping, and going to bed at the same time. Everything works much better that way.” When one boy goes to bed after the other, the Hages play a “quiet game,” getting him ready for bed and tucking him in as noiselessly as possible. To keep early-rising Ezra from waking his brother before dawn, he has a special clock that tells him when it’s time to get up. To keep Ephraim from barging into the bedroom during Shiphrah’s naps, the Petersens moved the kids’ toys to the den. Aside from this small accommodation, having the kids in one bedroom has been remarkably easy, says Anna. “We thought they’d wake each other up, but they don’t—kids are deeper sleepers than we realize.”
Making it work
When kids share rooms, discipline requires some parental creativity. The time-honored tactic of sending each child to their bedroom for time-out doesn’t work in shared-room scenarios. But bedrooms aren’t the only place that kids can cool off or take a Visit www.MobileBayParents.com
break, notes Crist. Kids who need solo time can chill in the bathroom, the den, or even a parents’ room. What about opposite-sex bunkmates? Crist says the arrangement can work well in the early years, before kids approach puberty and develop a sense of modesty about their bodies. Kids who feel self-conscious can dress and undress in the bathroom or another room in the home. Opposite-sex roomsharing generally works better when siblings are close in age, he notes—kids at vastly different developmental stages may not feel as comfortable sharing close space with an opposite-sex sibling. 33
Siblings now, friends forever
After getting off to a bumpy start, room-sharing has been smooth sailing for the Hage family. It’s not about splitting the room down the middle or diving things up 50-50, says Katey. “We don’t want them to see this as an obligation—this something exciting that they get to do. This is their special time together, and it won’t last forever.” Malia Jacobson is a freelance writer who specializes in sleep topics. She’s in the process of transitioning her two children to a shared bedroom.
Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
Boats Go With the Flow
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
In a world that’s mostly water, it makes sense that children want to explore and navigate the waterways. From discovering how cups float in their first bath to watching a paper boat rush away in a flooded street gutter, kids have a natural fascination with water and the crafts that move upon it. Whether they want to power-up a fast ship creating wakes of wonder or just go with the flow, the following watercraft are ideal ways for your children to explore whatever floats their boat!
by Paige Gardner Smith
Sprig Dolphin Explorer
My Toy Boat (Magic Cabin)
Ideal for hitting the water in the ‘old school’ way, the classic My Toy Boat is a water-worthy flat-bottomed boat that replicates those used by New England fishermen in the 19th century. Handcrafted from sturdy buoyant pine and painted with real boat paint to weather the effects of maritime action, these are ideal boats for the wading set who like to wander shallow creeks and inlets. These boats come in two sizes, a two-foot red and a 14” long blue, so skippers can choose the best vessel for their voyages. Designed to be a lasting heirloom toy, My Toy Boat is built to withstand years of shore-side play and sailing the inner seas.
(Sprig Toys)
Pretend-play hits the imaginary high seas as the Sprig Dolphin Explorer sets sail. With its own wee captain (whose hat and backpack are removable), a durable dinghy, and dolphin figures (who can join the journeys), the Sprig is waterproof and ready to ride the waves in the bathtub or swimming pool. As a play set the Dolphin Explorer is ideally suited for land lubber adventures as well. Crafted from Sprigwood, which is made from re-purposed plastic from milk jugs, the Sprig Explorer is also the ‘greenest’ boat to voyage upon the ‘big blue’. This is the boat that will have kids looking forward to bath time as they cast away the anchor lines on their imagination and embark on fresh journeys in the water!
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One of the coolest things that children can discover about boats is how important they are in our everyday lives. We see truck and trains carrying goods every day, but it’s the often out-of-sight big container ships and barges that move the bulk of our freight from place-to-place. The Tug Boat and Barge demonstrates boats as transportation, moving about lightweight foam blocks that can be used to build floating piers, towers and bridges in the bath. The water tension on the blocks helps them “stick” together when wet. The flat barge is big enough to carry plenty of constructible blocks, while the tug moves the barge around the bath, so the youngest sailors can build their own waterways and navigate the world they create!
For the older maritime adventurer (ages 10 and up), the Double Horse remote-control speed boat takes the action to broader outdoor waterways like pools, small ponds and freshwater lakes. It’s almost a perfect scale model of a real racing craft, with slick speedboat design in a range of colors. Powered by a rechargeable battery, the controls allow for forward, backward, stop, left and right turn direction for the launched boat on the water. This very responsive RC speedboat flies across the water with a range of about 100 feet and makes sharp turns with ease. The balance is good, too, so it doesn’t flip easily. The high-power takes a toll on the battery, so the run-time is limited until the battery re-charges, but WOW, the waves and wakes are worth it!
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Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.
Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
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Saving it for Good
by The FlyLady, Marla Cilley
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Why do we save our good stuff for a special occasion? Make memories with your pretty things so your children will know they are special to you! 1. Good China 2. Nice glasses 3. Linen table cloths 4. Pretty night gowns 5. Good purses 6. New towels 7. Special bottles of bubble bath and soap 8. Cloth napkins 9. Candles 10.Good silverware 11.Fancy tea pots or silver tea services 12.Stationery cute notepads
things that we love. When we take the time to get them clean, they will be ready to use. There is another benefit. When we set a formal table, we can teach our children proper table manners. Many times we eat with our fingers, when we have sandwiches and pizza. Our children have no clue which fork to use first or how to use a butter knife or cut meat. If we are going to help our children feel comfortable in these types of situations, they need practice. This is a good time to let them practice, setting the table and using their best table manners. This has become a lost art. They will need this one day, when a boss asks them over for dinner or at their own wedding. As for the other items you have stashed in dresser drawers, don’t wait until your family buries you in them; then is too late for you to feel sexy wearing them. Get
them out and wear those pretty undies. You will be so surprised at how good you will feel, and no one will know. This goes for those night gowns you have stashed, too. If you are not going to use them, then you might as well give them to someone who will. If you never liked them, then release them and have no guilt about it. Give them away...someone will love them and you will be blessed by your gift. Make every day a celebration by treating your family like they are company! This is what FLYing is all about. Loving yourself enough to enjoy your pretty things now while you can. For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, check out her website at www.FlyLady.net or her book, Sink Reflections, published by Random House, and her New York Times Best Selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2012 Marla Cilley. Used by permission in this publication.
We all have some of these things stashed in our cabinets, linen closets and our dresser drawers. They are just sitting there unloved and collecting dust. We got them for wedding presents or our parents handed them down to us. You may have purchased them for yourself. They are all waiting to we unpacked and used to bless us and our families. Let me tell you why I think they are unloved and why we don’t use them. We have put them in a place that we can’t easily get to them. They are in a box in the garage, on a shelf in the basement, stuck so far back under our cabinets that it would take two hours to pull them out, or they are on the very top shelf and you need a ladder to get to them. Then if you do get them out, they are filthy dirty and need to be washed. We don’t have time to enjoy our pretty things. So we hide them away. We don’t have to see them and feel guilt about not using them or we really don’t love them at all. If we will get rid of the clutter that is in our kitchen, our linen closets and our china cabinets, we will have more room for the Visit www.MobileBayParents.com
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
2013 VBS Guide Ashland Place UMC
15 Wisteria Avenue, Mobile 251-478-6356 www.apumc.com June 10-14, 2013 9 am – Noon Pre K3 – 4th grade “Kingdom Rock – Where Kids Stand Strong for God” Register your child online! https:// www.groupvbspro.com/vbs/ez/AshlandPlace/gpgs/register.aspx
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Christ Church Cathedral
115 S. Conception Street, Mobile, 251-438-1822 www.christchurchcathedralmobile.org June 4 – June 6 9:00am-12:00pm “Athens – Paul’s Dangerous Journey to Share the Truth” Register online https://www.groupvbspro.com/vbs/hl/christchurchcath/gpgs/ Home.aspx
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Christ United Methodist
6101 Grelot Road, Mobile 251-342-0462, For Elementary – June 17-June 21, 9:00am-12:00pm (K-5th grade) For Families – June 21, 6-8pm, June 22, 9:00am-3:00pm (Families of all ages) For Preschool – August 12- August 14 9:00am-11:30pm (3K & 4K) “Athens – Paul’s Dangerous Journey to Share the Truth” Please visit http://www.christumcchildren.com/ athens-paul/ for more information.
Corpus Christi Catholic School
6300 McKenna Drive, Mobile 251-342-5474, www.corpuschristiparish.com June 10-14, 8:45 -noon Children entering Kindergarten - 5th grade $25.00 per child or $75.00 for a family Pre-registration ends on May 25. (Necessary to receive a shirt) For More Information contact Kathleen Jester, 342-1852/kjester@corpuschristiparish.com
Cottage Hill Baptist
4255 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile 251-660-2422, www.cottagehill.org June 10-June 14, 9:00am-12:00pm “Colossal Coaster World” Completed K4-8TH Grade Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
Dauphin Way Baptist
3661 Dauphin Street, Mobile 251-445-4167, www.dwbc.org June 10 – June 14, 9:00am-12:00pm Ages 4-5th grade “Colossal Coaster World”
Dauphin Way UMC
1507 Dauphin St., Mobile 251-471-1511, www.dauphinwayumc.org June 10-June 14, 8:45-12pm; Age 4- completed 5th grade “Kingdom Rock – Where Kids Stand Strong for God” Registration information - www.dauphinwayumc.org. Call or e-mail Eliese McAllister with questions: emcallister@dauphinwayumc. org or 471-1511.VBS is free with a recommended $10 donation for t-shirt. We will be taking up a daily offering for children in India.
First Baptist Church of Mobile
806 Government Street, Mobile 251-432-6513, www.fbcmobile.com June 3rd-5th 9am-12pm. To kick off the fun, come to Cathedral Square near the fountain for popsicles and a picnic in the park. Theme – “Sonrise: National Park VBS” 36
First Baptist Tillman’s Corner 5660 Three Notch Road , Mobile 251-661-0114, www.fbtc.org June 17-June 21
Government Street Baptist
3401 Government Blvd, Mobile 251-660-7444, www.governmentstreet.org June 3-7; 8:30am-11:30am Grades completed K4-5th “Kingdom Rock”
Government St Presbyterian 300 Government Street, Mobile 251-432-1749, www.gspcmobile.org Tuesday, May 28-Saturday, June 1, (Last day at Baytreat) Ages 3-10, $15, “Kingdom Rock”
Little Flower Catholic Church 2053 Government St, Mobile 251-478-3381, www.littleflower.cc June 2- June 7
Mobile First Church of the Nazarene 669 Azalea Road, Mobile 251-666-0040
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Thursday, June 13-Sunday June 16 (June 13-15 6:30pm/June 16 10:45)
Lucy GreenGrace Community Church
7120 Airport Blvd, Mobile 251-345-3303, www.gracemobile.org Tuesday, June 11-Friday, June 14 Ages 5-5th grade Please check our website for more information.
Our Savior Catholic Church
1801 Cody Road South, Mobile 251-633-6762, www.oursaviorparish.org June 17-21
Regency Church of Christ
501 S. University Blvd, Mobile 251-345-8050, www.regencycc.org July 14-July 18
St. Dominics Catholic Church
4156 Burma Road, Mobile 251-661-5130, www.stdominicsmobile.org June 10 - 14, 8:45 a.m - 12:00 p.m 4-yrs through rising 6th grade.
St. Lukes Episcopal Church
1050 Azalea Road, Mobile 251-666-2990, stlukesepiscopalmobile.org June 10-June 14, 8:30 am – 12:00pm
Visit www.MobileBayParents.com
”Everywhere Fun Fair: Where God’s World Comes Together” Kindergarten through 5th grade Contact Wendy Wheeler, 666-2990 or church@ stlukesmobile.org to register.
June 24-June 28, 9:00am-12:00pm PreK-4th grade “It’s God’s World” “Trading Spaces” – 5th-7th grade at St. Mary’s Home
St. Mark UMC
415 McKeough Ave., Saraland 251-675-2728, www.saralandumc.org July 22-26 “Fun Fair: Where God’s World Comes Together”
439 Azalea Road, Mobile 251-342-5861, www.stmarkmobile.com July 15-July 19, 9:00pm-12:00pm Ages 4 - 5th grade. “Everywhere Fun Fair” Register online at www.stmarkmobile.com or by calling the church office at 342-5861.
St. Mary Catholic Parish
106 Providence Street, Mobile 251-432-8679, www.stmarymobile.org June 10-June 14 9:00am-12:00pm, K-5th grade “Faith, Hope, Love” For more information, contact the Parish Office at 251-432-8679.
St. Paul’s Episcopal
4051 Old Shell Road, Mobile 251-342-8521, www.stpaulschurchmobile.net July 15 – July 19
St. Ignatius Catholic Church
3704 Springhill Avenue, Mobile 251-342-9221, www.stignatiusmobile.org
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Saraland UMC
Shiloh Baptist
717 Cleveland Rd., Saraland 251-675-3587, www.shilohbc.com May 31-June 2; Grades 1st grade-6TH grade, K5 –will have their own special topic during the weekend “Amazing Race season 2” - We will be divided into teams where we will learn about how the gospel is presented in foreign countries. Kids will compete in group and individual challenges all while racing against other teams. Registration: Thursday May 30 or to find out more information, check our website.
Snow Road First Baptist
2370 Snow Road North, Semmes 251-649-7722, www.srfbc.com July 22-July 26 6:00pm-8:30pm Light supper served every evening “Amazing Wonders”
Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
Take me to Waterville! The Gulf Coast’s Premier Water & Amusement Park!
WATERPARK OPENS MAY 18-19! Open 7 days a week starting May 25!
AMUSEMENT PARK NOW OPEN
Kick-Off Rally & Pre-Registration(with inflatables, hot dogs and more) Saturday, July 20. “Colossal Coaster World”
Snow Road Missionary Baptist
809 Snow Road N, Mobile 251-649-0030, snowroadbaptistchurch.com June 3rd thru June 7th “The Mighty GOD (GOD Leads Moses and Me)” For Children ages 4 yrs. thru 6th Grade and Teens from 7th Grade thru 12th Grade. Register at the church on June 3rd at 8:30 am or online at www.snowroadbaptistchurch.com
Sonrise Baptist Church
140 Snow Road South, Mobile 251-776-RISE (7473), www.sonrisebc.net June17- June 20
Spring Hill Baptist
2 McGregor Ave S., Mobile 251-342-5320, www.shbc.cc June 3-6 (Monday-Thursday) from 6:008:30 p.m. A light supper will be served each evening. Theme: “Athens – Paul’s Dangerous Journey to the Truth” Registration will be available online on May 1 at www.shbc.cc
“ Dune
Racer “ New For 2013!
Spring Hill Presbyterian
See your favorite characters in person!
May 19th
Spongebob Squarepants
June 16th Patrick
Text WATERFUN to 45203
Get updates & COOL OFFERS all summer long! Must be 18 or older. Standard text messaging rates apply.
906 Gulf Shores Pkwy • Gulf Shores, AL • 251.948.2106
(Hwy 59 S.)
watervilleusa.com
10 Westminster Way, Mobile 251-342-1550, www.springhillpresbyterian.org June 10-June 13, 9:00am-11:30am (kids), Thursday – 5:00-7:30 pm (parents and kids) Age 4- Grade 5 “Athens – Paul’s Dangerous Journey to Share the Truth” To register, go to www.groupvbspro.com/vbs/ hl/shpc or contact Andrea Hall at andrea@ springhillpresbyterian.org.
West Mobile Baptist
7501 Airport Boulevard, Mobile 251-776-6939, www.westmobilebaptist.org” June 17-June 21, 6:00-8:30 p.m Ages 4-Grade 6 “SonWest Roundup” published by Gospel Light. No pre-registration required. For more information see our website at www.westmobilebaptist.org.
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Westminster Presbyterian
2921 Airport Blvd., Mobile 251-471-5451 June 17-20, 9:00am-12:00pm “Welcome to Everything FairWhere God’s World Come Together”
Woodridge Baptist Church
2700 Schillinger Rd S., Mobile 251-633-6000, www.woodridgebc.com July 15-July 19, 8:30am-12:00pm 1st-6th grade “SonWest Round Up” Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
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Advertising: 251-304-1200
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A Page in a Book
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by Paige Gardner Smith
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Princesses of Every Kind
Every little girl is entitled to her measure of royal treatment as a little princess, but not all young ladies are cut from the same royal purple cloth. Some may want to wear the ermine-trimmed gown, while others prefer to chase the ermine through the woods, catch it and tame it. The following titles introduce princesses who break the mold (a bit) from the gently-reared stereotypes of pampered, gently-spoken damsels in distress. Introduce your young reader to princesses who cut through the princess fluff and make their own way, on their own terms with royal flair!
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The Princess and the Packet of Frozen Peas
by Tony Wilson and Sue deGennaro (Peachtree Publishing) Prince Henrik knows he must someday marry a princess, but he doesn’t know how to find the right one. His married brother suggests placing a pea under layers of mattresses and inviting candidates to sleep upon them. He says only the most sensitive and delicate of princesses will detect the pea underneath. But Henrik’s brother’s princess wife appears to be merely thin-skinned and touchy. Henrik wants to find someone who is just the opposite; a princess who likes camping and hockey, a girl who smiles and is resourceful and kind. So Henrik tries his own variation on the “pea” method on visitors to the castle. With a thin sleeping bag and a packet of frozen peas, Henrik hopes his test may just weed out the ‘delicate’ princesses from the one who is tough enough to be a real princess. Whimsically illustrated with collage, gouache and pencil, this light-hearted approach to match-making will delight princes and princesses alike.
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You Can’t Eat a Princess
by Gillian Rogerson and Sarah McIntyre (Price Stern Sloan / Penguin) Every kind of amazing chocolate dessert is being laid out for Princess Spaghetti’s party when she discovers that her father, the King, has been abducted by aliens from outer space! She asks for the royal guards to help with a rescue mission, but they are not brave enough to go. The princess takes matters into her own hands, going after her father with a plan to get him back before he becomes the aliens’ main course. Using every bit of the authority and diplomacy that comes with her role, Princess Spaghetti takes the lead on the King’s rescue, finding a sweet solution that will keep him off the aliens’ menu in the future. Putting the lie to the damsel in distress, ‘You Can’t Eat a Princess’ is a delicious addition to every little girl’s book menu.
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Dangerously Ever After
by Dashka Slater, Illustrated by Valeria Docamp0 (Dial / Penguin) From pet scorpions and brakeless bicycles to her collection of broken glass and daggers, Princess Amanita’s tastes are a bit edgy among young royalty. Her garden is lush with stink lilies, swinging mace vines (look out!) and needled cacti. But when young Prince Florian rolls by on his bike, he’s not put off by her dangerous garden. He wants to make friends, so he gifts her with a lovely bouquet of roses from his own garden. Without a terrible odor or razor-sharp leaves, Princess Amanita puzzles over the roses… until she discovers the thorns. She asks Prince Florian for rose seeds to plant in her own garden, but instead of roses, Princess Amanita gets a crop of ‘noses’ that sniffle, snore and disturb the whole castle. Hitting the road to return the troublesome blooms to Florian, Amanita gets lost and only something that ‘smells good’ can help her find her way. With lush and capricious illustrations, ‘Dangerously Ever After’ is a delightfully unconventional princess story! Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
Best Summer Ever!
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Amp Up Creative Family Fun by Christina Katz
Are you simultaneously excited about and dreading the approach of summer? If so, you might want to start preparing now to make the most of all of the unstructured, non-scheduled time your kids will soon be spending at home...or the summer may not end up nearly as relaxing for you as it is for your kids! Take a cue from ‘The Artful Parent,’ blogger Jean Van’t Hul. She says, “When a child explores, learns, and creates, the side effect is often a mess. To say no to the messes inhibits the exploration and the creativity that can take place. That should take place. It’s a child’s job to explore the world around him, to experience it and learn as much about it as possible. If the adults in his world continually say, ‘Don’t make a mess, be quiet, sit down, be still, leave that alone, do it this way, color within the lines, don’t get your clothes dirty,’ that inhibits the exploration and the learning.” Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
To make sure you are ready for a summer that is as creative as it is easy, take a few tips from this list. You’ll be ready to squeeze as much fun as you can out of every lazy summer day.
Test-drive The Art Supplies: Where
do you keep your arts and craft supplies? If stored where they are easy to access, your kids will be more likely to use them. Give your arts and crafts storage area a quick overhaul before the vacation months arrive. Check markers. Sharpen pencils. Melt old crayons into new bigger ones. Restock your finger paint and drawing pads. Get enough clipboards or pads for each member of the family. Whatever kinds of projects your family likes to indulge in, make sure you’ve got all the supplies on hand and ready to roll!
Plenty of Places to Brainstorm: We
have an assortment of white boards around the house that absorb an awful lot of creative energy. My daughter, who is eight, 40
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kneels in front of the one in her bedroom when she wants to draw picture after picture after picture. I use one in my office to catch ideas as they go flitting by or to jot down a few professional to-dos. And believe it or not, if I write down the family chores on the white board in the kitchen, I’m much more likely to get the cooperation from the rest of the family when I need it, so we can get back to playing.
Become Project-oriented: Creating a garden, a tree house, or a worm box are all examples of outdoor projects the family can undertake together this summer. If you have a rainy day or prefer to stay indoors, why not get a jump on next season’s holiday gifts or cards? If everyone in the house prefers to work on his or her own projects at his or her own pace, why not make sure that each person has their own craft area, where they can leave a project out while it’s in process, until its completed? You’ll find that projects are more likely to get finished when they are easily accessible. Advertising: 251-304-1200
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Bring On The Color: Painting your
walls, your furniture, your fence or your home is one of the cheapest and most fun ways to get a fresh look at home. Even a toddler can paint primer on a wall. Tweens and teens might enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from getting an entire house painted. Mom and Dad might be able to swing in a hammock and sip a cold drink while each school age child paints one piece of furniture from their bedrooms a favorite new hue.
Garden with Themes: Why have
a regular old garden when you could have a fairy garden or a pizza garden or a found objects garden? For ideas and inspiration, consult the illustrated gardening books for children by author Sharon Lovejoy: Roots, Shoots, Buckets & Boots (Workman 1999), Trowel & Error (Workman 2002), and Toad Cottages & Shooting Stars (Workman 2010). Why not give each member of the family their own garden plot so they can nurture the harvest of their choice?
Take an Unexpected Adventure:
When you set out as a family towards an unfamiliar destination, your senses come alive with all the possibilities. Instead of planning every summer family outing, consider just grabbing some snacks and water bottles, hopping in the car, and surprising yourselves. Perhaps there is a city nearby you can explore. Perhaps you are just an hour from a state park or wildlife sanctuary. Target a quaint small town you can traverse from end to end on foot. Keep an ongoing list of ideas on one of your whiteboards, take a quick family vote to decide on a destination, and you’re off!
Host A Backyard Extravaganza:
Older children might like to put on plays or puppet shows for younger children in the summer. Let them play the roles of producer, director, marketing spokesperson, etc. and get the whole neighborhood involved. Fun can really start to catalyze when you pool the neighborhood dressup clothes, create an impromptu story, and start casting parts...even if only to while away a long afternoon.
Get a Little Wild: Maybe during the school year you don’t welcome the extra mess that body paint, mud, glitter, bathtub crayons, clay, or temporary hair dyes can bring into your hallowed home. But during the summer months, why not? Kids experience a lot of pressure to conform when they are in school, so let them get wild while the days are long, the nights are short, and homework is nothing more than a distant memory. Make Multimedia Memories: Keep a camera or a video recorder handy so you can document your colorful, creative summer and share it with your distant friends and relatives. And don’t worry about what to do with all your images and film clips. The long cold winter is coming just as sure as you are fully enjoying every minute of your fleeting summer. You’ll be so happy making memories that neighbors you haven’t seen in ages may invite themselves over to join the fun. Happy creative summer, everyone! Christina Katz is a freelance writer who loves summer family fun. Her latest book is The Writer’s Workout from Writer’s Digest Books.
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2013 Summer Fun
General Family Attractions Alligator Alley
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19950 Hwy 71, Summerdale 1-866-99-GATOR, www.gatoralleyfarm.com Observe over a hundred alligators in their natural environment. The entire family can safely view gators from elevated boardwalk. All tours are guided. See alligators over 13 feet long and if you dare, participate in one of their three daily feedings. Also, catch a glimpse of the other exciting animals who call Alligator Alley home. Mid-August our baby alligators will be hatching. Come and see them! Open 7 Days a Week – 10am5pm (Feeding times: 11:00am, 1:00pm, 4:00pm Safe for kids!
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Mobile Museum of Art
4850 Museum Drive, Mobile 208-5200, www.mobilemuseumofart.com Open Tues- Sun 10am-5p. Free all day each Thursday – Open until 9:00pm on Thursday. Thursday evenings, 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. The Mobile Museum of Art (MMoA) presents weekly programs and happenings highlighting our permanent collection and special exhibitions to start your weekend early: Thursday Nights at MMoA. Join us each week to experience the museum in new and exciting ways throughout the year. No reservations necessary Over 9,000 works of art spanning two centuries of culture, as well as world renowned traveling exhibitions and regional art exhibits. Art Blast Summer Camp: also available for children ages 4-18.
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Space 301
301 Conti Street, Mobile 208-5671, www.space301.com Space 301 is dedicated to the practice, study, exhibition and enjoyment of local, regional, national and international artists. Workshops and Great Camps available-check our website. The Memory Lounge will prominently feature an interactive area for kids. Free programs also allow children ages 3-12 and their parents to explore contemporary art and music. Open WednesdaySaturday from 11am-5pm and Sunday from 12pm-5pm. Friday - 11 am until 8 pm (Closed Monday and Tuesday) Admission: $2 for adults; Members and children under 12 are free.
• Bellingrath Gardens
12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd, Theodore 973-2217, www.bellingrath.org Bellingrath Gardens and Home is a 65 acre estate of yearround beauty. Come experience the Southern Belle River Cruise, Bellingrath Museum Home, Bayou Boardwalk, the 2004 Top Public Rose Garden in the United States, Butterfly Garden and more! Located just 20 minutes
Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
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•F southwest of Mobile. Gardens-Daily from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. The Bellingrath Home -Guided tours begin at 9 a.m. with the last ticket sold at 3:30 p.m. The Southern Belle River Cruise-For more information or groups with reservations, call 251.973.2217. River cruises depart daily from Bellingrath Gardens and Home from March through November. Please call 800.247.8420 to confirm departure times.
• Birding Trails
www.alabamacoastalbirdingtrail.com The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail is a birder’s paradise. Our sun-drenched coast is a popular resort area for a variety of feathered visitors and year-round residents. The trail spans two counties, and is enhanced by directional and interpretive signage. For detailed individual trail maps, visit www.alabamacoastalbirdingtrail.com.
• Bon Secour National Wildlife Reserve 12295 State Hwy 180, Gulf Shores
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540-7720, www.fws.gov/bonsecour The Bon Secour NWR contains 7,000 acres of wildlife habitat for migratory birds, nesting sea turtles and the endangered Alabama beach mouse. The refuge has been named as one of the 10 natural wonders of Alabama.
• Dauphin Island Sea Lab
101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island 861-7515, www.disl.org Explore the beach and marine life with your children and while learning all about science and nature! Explore the four key ecosystems of coastal Alabama (the Delta, Mobile Bay, the Barrier Islands and Mobile Bay) at The Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Estuarium. The center houses aquariums and fascinating nature exhibits inside its 10,000 square foot facility. New this year is the first outdoor touch tank, an exciting exhibit that invites visitors to learn about the “Rays of the Bay.” Summer hours are March 1-August 31, Monday-Saturday (9am-6pm) and Sundays (12pm-6pm). Admission: Adult $10.00,
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Children (5-18) or Students with ID $6.00, Seniors $8.00 Group rates available Check out our summer camps and register on line. Summer Excursions for you! You can discover the wonders of Dauphin Island with a Sea Lab Summer Excursion! Enjoy a hands on exploration of coastal habitats with a Dauphin Island Sea Lab professional educator. Visit the salt marsh and learn why these mucky habitats are so vital. Or walk along the beach and in the maritime forest and learn the value of these threatened environments. All for only $10 per person (adults and children). Children 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult; adults are responsible for their children. Space is limited so reservations are recommended. Please note that excursion costs DO NOT include the cost of Estuarium admission. For more information on these trips or the Sea Lab, or visit www.disl.org
• Environmental Studies Center
(A division of Mobile County Public Schools) 1 Magnum Pass, Mobile 251-221-5000, http://www.mcpss.com/?DivisionID=214 1&DepartmentID=1990&ToggleSideNav=ShowAll The Environmental Studies Center is a natural sciences education facility designed to provide unique learning experiences not typically available in the local school. Featuring over 500 acres of rich woodlands, the Center affords teachers, students and the general public an opportunity to experience firsthand the natural environment and the interrelationships governing our living world. Natural resources include pine and bay forests, swamps, freshwater streams, carnivorous plant bogs, and a twentyacre lake. Man-made facilities include numerous nature and hiking trails, an outdoor amphitheater, covered pavilions, a weather station and STARLAB Planetarium, live animal exhibits, native plants garden, and multipurpose instruction building. The building contains an auditorium, library, and classroom/exhibit space containing live reptiles and amphibians, a salt-water aquarium, and numerous preserved specimens commonly encountered throughout southern Alabama. Summer Day camps for kids are also registering now. 8:00am-4:30 pm, Monday – Friday. A donation of $2 per visitor is appreciated. Call for hours and special events.
• Five Rivers Delta Resource Center
30945 Five Rivers Blvd., Spanish Fort 625-0814 www.alabama5rivers.com Explore all the Delta has to offer! Watch a movie about the beautiful Delta experience, or experience the Delta first hand with a boat ride or rent a canoe or kayak or walk on our nature trails. Saturday demonstrations include fly fishing, crabbing, coastal fishing, canoeing, cast-net throwing, photography, alligator hunting, wild hog hunting and more! Many Summer activities for Children and Adults. Open daily from 8:00am-5:00pm. Find us on Facebook!
Hours: Tuesday –Saturday 9:00am-5:00pm. 8,500-square-foot, hands-on discovery playground with IMAX theatre where learning about science and nature is nothing but fun for children and adults of all ages! The Exploreum also offers amazing Summer Camps! Week-long camps are hands-on, age-appropriate with make-and-take activities. For dates & times, visit www. exploreum.com.
• Historic Blakely State Park
34745 State Hwy 225, Spanish Fort 626-0798, www.blakeleypark.com Tour the preserved Civil War battlefield with its Confederate and Union breastworks and fortifications. Walk or bike on miles of trails or take a 2 hour eco-boat tour. Special events are scheduled throughout the year. Check our webpage for more information. The Park is 9 a.m. to dusk, seven days a week. Adults $3.00, Children 6-12: $2.00, Children under 6: FREE.
• Mobile Bay Bears Baseball
Hank Aaron Stadium, 755 Bolling Brothers Blvd 479-2327, www.mobilebaybears.com Minor League Baseball at its best!
• Mobile Botanical Gardens
5151 Museum Dr, Mobile 342-0555 www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org Free admission. Open dawn to dusk. 100-acre site of cultivated gardens and woodland trails. Explore on your own or schedule a guided tour. MBG Marketplace Saturdays 9-11 a.m. until the end of June. Also offering NatureBLAST Nature Day Camp for grades 3-4 and other events and classes. Check our website for more information.
• Mobile Carnival Museum
355 Government Street, Mobile, 432- 3324, www.mobilecarnivalmuseum.com Learn the Mardi Gras History! The museum includes interactive exhibits, visitors can “ride” and throw doubloons from a Carnival float. Adults-$5.00, Children 12 and under - $2.00, Under age 3 – Free. Open M, W, F, and Saturday from 9:00am-4:00pm (final tour at 3:00pm)
• National African-American Archives & Multicultural Museum
564 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, Mobile 433-8511, www.naaamm.org View portraits, biographies, artifacts and books. A display of memorabilia from Hank Aaron is also on display. Open Tuesday-Friday from 8:00am-4:00pm and Saturday and Sunday by appointment. Admission - Free
• Naval Aviation Museum
150 South Royal Street, Mobile 208-7569, www.museumofmobile.com Fun for all ages! Admission is free. Open Daily 8am5pm. Partially reconstructed 1724 French fort in downtown Mobile. Period costumed guides. Demonstrations of cannon and musket-firing. Great place for kids and families to learn and explore! Call or visit the website for more information.
Naval Air Station, Pensacola (850) 452-3604, www.navalaviationmuseum.org More than 150 beautifully restored aircraft and over 4,000 artifacts representing Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard Aviation. Feel the thrill in our Flight Simulators or visit the Naval Aviation Memorial IMAX® Theatre Enjoy lunch in the Cubi Bar Café. Free Admission, Free Parking, Free Tours! The museum is open from 9:00am-5:00pm. Also offering National Flight Academy In-Residence Summer Program open to 7th – 12th graders and Summer Camp for 5th and 6th graders.
• Fort Gaines
• Oakleigh Historic Complex
• Fort Conde
51 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island 861-6992, www.daupinisland.org Fort Gaines was the battle site of the famous Battle of the Bay in August 1864 (“Damn the Torpedoes: Full Speed Ahead”.) See the battlements and soldiers’ living quarters, which were used from the 1800’s to 1946. Lots of fun for families and kids!
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• Gulf Coast Exploreum
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65 Government Street, Mobile 208-6873, www.exploreum.com
300 Oakleigh Place, Mobile 432-1281, www.historicmobile.org At Oakleigh Historic Complex, costumed guides lead you through an intimate experience of 19th century Gulf Coast living in an authentic setting. Oakleigh’s three house museums interpret three aspects of daily living in mid-19th century: society, servant and working class.Located minutes from downtown Mobile, Oakleigh offers a pleasant experience for all ages.Beautifully restored 1833 Greek Revival Mansion and the 1850 Cox Deasy Cottage. Open Wednesday-Saturday from 10am-4pm.(Tours
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
on the hour) $7.00 for adults and $5.00 for children and students.
• Phoenix Fire Museum
203 South Claiborne Street, Mobile 208-7569, www.museumofmobile.com The restored home of the Phoenix Volunteer Fire Company No. 6. See Turn-of-the-century horse-drawn steam engines and early motorized vehicles along with the history of the volunteer fire companies of Mobile since 1838. Open Tuesday – Saturday from 10am – 5pm and Sunday from 1pm – 5pm. Admission is free.
• The Museum of Mobile
111 S. Royal Street, Mobile 208-7569, www.museumofmobile.com Audio and interactive exhibits that engage visitors as they learn the history of Mobile. Open Tuesdays through Saturdays - 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays - 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. CLOSED MONDAYS. $7.00 – Adults, $6.00 - Senior Citizens, $5.00 – Students. Children under six Free. First Sunday of each month Free Admission.
• United States Sports Academy
1 Academy Drive, Daphne, 626-3303, www.asama.org Founded in 1984, the American Sport Art Museum and Archives (ASAMA) is dedicated to the preservation of sports art, history and literature. The ASAMA collection is composed of more than 1,500 pieces across all media, including paintings, sculptures, assemblages, prints, posters and photography. The museum is open to the public, free of charge, Mon through Fri, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• USS Alabama Battleship
Battleship Parkway, Mobile 433-2703, www.ussalabama.com Walk the decks of a mighty battleship. Go below in a World War II submarine. View cockpits of combat aircraft. You’ll also see tanks, a Vietnam River Patrol Boat, and a plane like the one flown by the Tuskegee Airmen. Open daily 9am-6pm (summer). Admission for age 12 and up is $15.00, Ages 6-11 is $6.00 and under age 6 is free.
• Wales West Light Railway
13670 Smiley St., Silverhill 888-569-5337; www.waleswest.com This summer Wales West Light Railway will once again be offering the “Summer Fun Program” for families! 9A.M. to 4P.M. daily. Families can spend the day at Wales West with plenty of activities including swimming in the lake (sandy beach), fishing in the lake, pedal boating, swimming in the indoor pool, playing on the playground, and a round-trip ride on the diesel train. Dame Ann Cafe offers a limited but reasonable menu (with advance notice) for lunch, or bring your own picnic. Price is $10 per person, plus tax. Children under 1 year are free. If you bring 3 full-price, next two are half-price.
Sunshine Sue’s Playgarden
1108 Dauphin Street Mobile, (251)421-2434 http://www.sunshinesuesplaygarden.com/ email: hello@sunshinesuesplaygarden.com Play Place, Drop off Service, Birthday Parties, Classes and More! Our Services: Open Play (M-F, 9am -6pm): $6/hr for one child, $4/hr for additional children in the immediate family. Sue’s Drop Off Club (M-F, 9am-6pm):$10/Month or $100/year for Family Club Membership, plus $10/hr for ages 6mos-23mos, and $8/ hr for ages 2-12. 4 hours Maximum per child per day. Reservations required for a guaranteed spot; walk-ins welcome if there is availability. Children must bring or purchase a snack if dropped off for more than 2 hours. Parents’ Night Out (2nd Friday of every month to coincide with the LODA Artwalk, 6-9pm): $24 per child for ages 3-12. Art and or Musical Activities, Movie Nights will be included as entertainment. Snacks and drinks will be served. Birthday Parties (Sat and Sun by Reservation. Special Events, Summer Camps and Classes will have listed pricing as announced.Coming Soon: Kindermusik Classes with Emily Howat Starting in May! Please visit our website for more information.
• Carmike Kids Series - Windsong 16 Cinema
785 South Schillinger Road, Mobile 639-7373, www.carmike.com Carmike Summer Kid Series is back! Jun 5&6- Despicable Me June 12&13 – Smurfs 2D June 19&20 – Hotel Transylvania June 26&27 – Ice Age: Continental Drift July 3&4 – Rio July 10&11 – Horton Hears a Who July 17&18 – Madagascar 3 (Shown in 2D) July 24&25 – Happy Feet II July31&Aug1 – Yogi Bear August 7&8 – Disney’s Chimpanzee $4.00 per person and included movie, popcorn and drink
• Chuck E. Cheese’s
710 Downtowner Loop W, Mobile 342-8142, www.chuckecheese.com Sun-Thurs. 9am-10pm, Fri-Sat 9am-11pm.
• Crescent Theatre
208 Dauphin Street, Mobile 438-2005, www.crescenttheater.com Independent movie theater, bringing you the best in independent film, locally-produced cinema, and live performances.
• Dreamland Skate Center
5672 Three Notch Rd., Mobile 661-6997, www.dreamlandskatecenter.com Check our online calendar for upcoming summer skate times!
• Free Children’s Bowling at AMF (2 locations)
Bowling/ Skating / Movie Theatres/ Indoor Fun Pump It Up
741-A Hillcrest Road, Mobile 251- 342-3940; www.PumpItUpParty.com Summer Open Play: Begins Monday, May 27th. Come in from the heat and enjoy some COOL jumping fun! Meet up with old friends and make some new ones too! Monday*Wednesday*Fridays 10am-2pm, $8/child plus tax. Ages 2 - 12 welcome. Children UNDER 2 years old and Parents play FREE with paid admission of older sibling. Socks and signed waiver required to play. Not a drop off event, please plan to stay and monitor your children. Face Painting and other activities offered on various days through Summer! Check our website for more information.
Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
AMF - Camellia Lanes 125 North Schillinger Rd. Mobile 639-1221, www.amf.com/camellialanes AMF Skyline Lanes 4120 Government Blvd., Mobile 661-1221, www.amf.com/skylinelanes Sign up your children for FREE bowling at AMF! Free bowling for kids all summer long! Kids registered in the Summer Unplugged program can bowl two games per day, every day, all summer long! (Shoe rental not included.) Kids Meal $4.49 (per child) all summer long.
• Hollywood Theatres -Stadium 18
1250 Satchel Paige Dr, Mobile 473-9655, www.gohollywood.com Membership is free and includes Hollywood insider only screenings, promotions and discounts.
• House of Bounce
6368 Cottage Hill Rd. Mobile,
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666-3456, www.houseofbouncemobile.com We Do Fun! We don’t just offer awesome Birthday Parties...We offer Tween Night, Date Night, Stay-N-Play, Fund Raising, Youth Night, Open Jump, Home School P.E. and So Much More... Gigantic Inflatable Double Lane Slides, Mega Inflatable, Bounce House With Double Slides, PS3 Xbox Karaoke Glow In The Dark Dance Floor with Laser Light Fog Machine To The Latest Hits, Basketball Challenge Air Hockey. Please check our Facebook page or webpage for more information.
• Jumps – A – Lot
302 Schillinger Road North, Mobile 421-2108; www.jumps-a-lot.com Open play is Tuesday –Thursday 10:00am until 2:00 pm. It will begin May28th –August 8th. Open play is $5.50 per child. Closed for the 4th of July.
• Pete’s Party Castle
2040 Schillinger Rd. S., Mobile 281-1990, www.petespartycastle.com Pete’s Party Castle is Mobile’s favorite place to sit back and let the kids play. Enjoy great food, arcades, dragon playground, and train ride. Even the little ones can play too in our toddler soft play area. Come see why we’re the best kids party place in town.
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• Sunshine Skate Center Summer Skate
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• Rambo’s Skateland
950 Hillcrest Road, Mobile 251-639-1704, www.sunshineskate.com Summer Fun at Sunshine! Matinee Skate Sessions Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 10am-4pm. Admission is $5. Tuesday night we will be open for Two Dollar Tuesdays 7pm-10pm for $2 admission. Thursday night is 7pm-9pm for $1 admission. Summer hours will be posted on website.
• Watermelon Patch
6417 Hillcrest Park Ct., Mobile 251-633-3288; thewmpatch.com Our 2013 Summer program is packed with excitement and fun. Adventures in Learning await your camper this summer. Weekly themed activities your kiddos are sure to love! Our summer program will provide a positive environment for campers to socialize and learn through hands on exploration and play. Patriotic parades, carnival games, animal fun, experiments, group challenges and exciting discoveries await your child! Register now! 8:30am – 12:30pm for ages 18 months – 9 years (groups divided by ages) Call about older siblings joining in.
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Amusement Parks/ Outdoor Fun Waterville USA
906 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores 251-948-2106, www.watervilleusa.com Join the family fun with the Waterpark, Mini Golf, Bounce House, Go-Karts, Arcade, Rollercoaster and much more! NEW for 2013 - A six lane mat racer slides! These exciting 55 foot tall slides allow riders to enjoy the thrill of actually winning their race against other sliders! The newest exciting concept in water slides on the Gulf Coast!” Waterpark opens May 18. Opens at 10:00 am. Please check our website for closing times.
• Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
1204 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores 968-5731, www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is tucked away just blocks from the beach and is home to more than 300 animals in-
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• Kids Days in Bienville Square – Thursdays
Kids days in Bienville starts on Thursday, June 6. Bring the kids out for some summertime fun in Bienville Square each Thursday and enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts and visits from the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, the Mobile Police and Fire Departments and much more! Free. Thursdays through June 27th from 10am-1pm.
• Mobile Zoo
15161 Ward Rd W, Wilmer 649-1845, www.mobilezoo.cc The zoo was established for education and continuing the existence of endangered/non-endangered wildlife. You can see wildlife from all over the world and learn about them. Tour our main building exhibits, tropical birds, rep-
• The Track
3200 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores 968-8111, www.gulfshorestrack.com The Track is your Family Fun and Recreation Center in Gulf Shores, Alabama! Go-Karts, Mini-Golf, Bumper Rides, and lots of family fun! Open Monday - Sunday. Hours May 31-August 10, 9:00am – Close (Closing time depends on crowd level and weather) Aug 11 – Oct 5, 10 am till close.
• X-Treme Paintball
900-A Schillinger Road S, Mobile, AL 36695 (251) 639-0399, www.xpb.us/
• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •
We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.
New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.
Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!
We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode
first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse. Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness... I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,
Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?
Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...
waiting lists start early...sign up soon!... Waitingwww.riverviewcamp.com! lists start early...sign up soon!...
Dr. Larry & Susan Hooks, Owners/Directors • Donna Bares,Asst. Director 1
Call for FREE DVD and catalog 1-800-882-0722 Accredited by American Camping Association • Members of Christian Camping International
D RAMA
www.riverviewcamp.com
Only 1 /Mountain 2 hours from Huntsville Located on top of Lookout in Mentone, AL. Only a 5 hr drive.
1 & 2Week Sessions for Ages 6-16
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5103 Girby Road, Mobile, 661-2777 Putt-Putt, Game Room and family fun! Funntasia Family Fun Center is going back to our “Safari Roots” and would like to invite you to putt a little fun in your life. Find us on Facebook!
4901 Montee Road, Theodore 490-6049, southernalabamapaintball.com/ At Southern Alabama Paintball, we pride ourselves in providing a safe, family oriented paintball field for all players. We are Mobile County’s largest scenario, woodsball field on 15 acres of land located in Theodore, AL near Mobile, AL. As a scenario field we provide our players with new field layouts and new objectives each weekend.
63 Midtown Park East, Mobile 251-510-1808, www.azaleacityarts.com Drama Camp @ St. Luke’s-Are you ready for two weeks of fun? Join us for full-blown Drama Camp (around since 2002) -- we will put on a full length show, play games, go outdoors, and paint sets! Cost of $260 includes cast party, t-shirt, DVD, costumes, script, and more! 9 am - 1 pm Grades 3 & up. Session 1 -- June 3 – 14, Session 2 -- June 17 – 28, Session 3 -- July 1 – 12,Session 4 -- July 15 – 26. * Special Rising Stars session for older campers grades 8 & up June 10 - June 21 from 1 pm to 3 pm. $185 Drama Camp Junior @ Sunny Side Theater For our youngest actors & actresses, we have one week sessions that produce a daily skit or performance. Campers participate in group games, costume craziness, bringing books to life, and stage fun! Cost $130 includes t-shirt, costumes, snacks, and performances. 9 am - 1 pm Grades PK - 2. $130/week. Session 1 -- June 10 – 14, Session 2- June 17 – 21, Session 3 -- June 24 – 28, Session 4 -- July 15 – 19, Session 5 - July 22 – 26, Session 6 - August 12 - 16 Azalea City Center for the Arts Themed Camps Are you looking for an all-day arts extravaganza? This is it! With four center-wide theme camps throughout the summer, your child will have a blast exploring art, dance, music, and drama in this all day camp. Cost $175/week includes t-shirt, costumes, snacks, and performance on the final day in addition to access to our entire center and staff. 9 am - 3 pm, Grades PK - 5. Azalea City Idol Pop & Rock Star Camp -- June 3 – 7, Pirates, Princesses, Pianos, & Plays -- July 8 - 12 Phineas & Ferb -- July 29 - August 2, Wizard of Oz -August 5 - 9 Music Camps @ Full Scale School of Music Tired of the same old piano lessons? Enjoy our summer
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• Funtasia Family Fun Center
• Southern Alabama Paintball
Azalea City Center For the Arts
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3428 Dawes Rd., Mobile, AL 36695 251-639-8245, http://www.bobspaintball.com/ Come one and all to the best paintball fields in Mobile, AL. From team elimination, capture the flag, to free-forall, and even airball. For good fun, Bob’s is great for any one wanting a rush that you wouldn’t believe until you try it.
Performing Arts
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• Bob’s Paintball
tiles, exit the building to see two species of Black Bear, Tortoises, Leopards, Tigers, Lions, and Serval Cats. The journey passes an open range of non-flying birds, two species of Deer, and Antelope, Bison, long hair cattle, Giant Horses, Minature Donkeys, Wild Hogs, Alligators, many different primates including Chimpanzee and much more. The zoo is quiet and peaceful out in the country. Most of the time the only sounds heard are the wildlife. No noise or air pollution out here! You can see your favorite animal and learn about it! Tuesday – Sunday, closed Monday. 9am-4:30pm (6:00 P.M. in the summer) last call to enter, 1 hour before closing. Admission: $7.50 -Adults, $6.50- 3 to 12 years, $6.50 -65 years and older, plus tax, under 3 years free. Group rates.
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cluding lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, macaws and more. There’s also a petting zoo, reptile house, aviary and daily animals shows in the summer Home to more than 290 animals. Also offering “Zoo Camp” for children 5 to 11. Open 9am to 4pm Monday – Sunday. Price- Adults (1354) $10.00, Seniors (55+) $8.00, Children (3-12) $7.00, Children 2 and Under Free. We also have group rates.
FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF
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music camps that will blow you away and teach you musical skills at the same time! Cost includes t-shirt, access to instruments, and performance. 9 am - 1 pm grades 1 - 5, $130/week. Star Wars -- July 15 – 19, Hands On Instruments Alive -- July 22 - 26 *Rock Band Camp -grades 6-12, 8:30 - 5:30, $200 -June 10 - June 14. For more information or to sign up, please visit our website.
Broadway South Dance Studio
Two locations in Mobile: 7906 Westside Park Dr. (West Mobile -Off Schillinger 1 mile south of Winn Dixie Shopping Center) Regency Square-Airport/University behind Applebee’s 251- 639-0660; www.broadwaysouthdance.com We offer Mobile’s largest variety of dance camps and summer classes at both locations for ages 2-10+ as well as Adult Dance and workout classes. Call 639-0660 or visit www.broadwaysouthdance.com.
Broussard’s Piano Gallery - Academy of Music
1541 E. I-65 Service Road South, Mobile 251-344-8856; broussardspianos.com Summer Piano Camps for the beginning student will be offered June 10-14 and June 17-21 and will include opportunities for learning for ages 4-adult! *This is the first year that we have offered “Pre-Reading” Piano lessons for age 4. Call to make your reservations today. Registration and fee for class is $69.99.
Debbie’s School of Dance
6429 Hillcrest Park Court, Mobile 251- 633-9559; www.debbiesdance.com Debbie’s School of Dance is offering great Summer Dance Camps 2013! Two Day A Week Camps-Tuesday & Thursday-Dates: June 11th-June 27 and THE BEST Five Day Dance Camp!
2 Year Old’s Elmo Hokey Pokey Dance Camp 9-9:45am or 5:45-6:30 (Ballet, Tumbling, Storytime, Games), 3-5 Year Old’s Patty bouree Camp 10-11:30 or 6-7:30pm (Ballet, Tumbling, Games, Storytime, crafts) 6 Year & Up Shake it Up Hip-Hop & Tumbling Dance Camp 6:308:00pm (Hip-Hop, Tumbling, Games, Crafts) 5 DAY CAMP - Tutu Train Express Camp Act 1:June 10-14 9am-12pm or Act 2 June 24-28 (Ballet, Tumbling, Crafts, Snacks, Storytime, T-Shirt, Games). For more info, call 633-9559 or visit www.debbiesdance.com.
Parents and Guest Will join us for a party the last day of Camp to see the Girls Hit the Runway and Show off their Dance Skills. Ages 5 - 14 Years Old . All Camps are from 9 - 1pm. June 17 - June 21st - Baker High School Dance Studio - Airport Blvd. June 24th - June 28th -Heron Lakes Country Club - Government Blvd. July 15th - July 19th - Baker High School Dance Studio - Airport Blvd.
Mobile School of Piano
www.cctshows.com
Located in West Mobile 251-272-9616; mobileschoolofpiano.com June 3 - August 9, Ages 4 to adult Our summer program offers weekly private lessons where the student will learn several styles of music. This class is a wonderful introduction or refresher course for any student. By the end of the summer, they will have a repertoire of songs they can play on their own. There is a limit of space available so call to reserve yours today!
Other Sources of Plays and Performances • Chickasaw Civic Theatre • Joe Jefferson Players
www.joejeffersonplayers.com
• Mobile Chamber Music
www.mobilechambermusic.org
• Mobile Opera
www.mobileopera.org
• Mobile Piano Ensemble
Sheffield School of the Dance, Inc.
1901 Dauphin St. Mobile, AL www.sheffielddance.net www.facebook.com/sheffielddance; Offering 3 Summer Camps! (All Ages) - Late June into July. More details to follow! For more information, call 479-3926.
www.mobilepianoensemble.org
Summer Glamour Camp with Studio Glitz Productions
www.mobilepopsband.com
421-2259; studioglitz@gmail.com Let your daughter experience the exciting world of Glamour, Fashion, Etiquette and more. While we focus on learning Self Respect/ Self Confidence/ Self Esteem/ Social Skills and much, much more with two fun filled weeks of Fashion & Glamour!! We will have different activities everyday including DANCE 1 hour a day.
• Mobile Playhouse in the Park www.mobilepip.org
• Mobile Pops
• Mobile Saenger Theatre www. mobilesaenger.com
• Mobile’s Singing Children www.mobilesingingchildren.org
• Mobile Symphony Orchestra www.mobilesymphony.org
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Come see us. We’re in a good mood, but...
Feed an alligator! Call for details.
Have the best Birthday Party ever here at Nature walk on elevated boardwalk. Alligator Alley! View alligator feedings.
..with an attitude!
See over 300 alligators up close!
Get up close and personal with big alligators!
Field Trips/Birthday Parties available. Fun for the entire family!
Safe for kids!
Open Every Day 10am- 5pm!
1-866-99-GATOR 19950 Hwy 71 • Summerdale, AL Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
www.gatoralleyfarm.com 46
Advertising: 251-304-1200
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• Mobile Theatre Guild
www.playhouseinthepark.org
due by Tuesday, April 9, 2011. Students may bring their money to my room (7110). For more information, please contact: Miss Harlan Toole, tooleh@mcgill-toolen.org, 251.432.0784, ext. 2832Art Classes at the Library www.mplonline.org/ under calendar section
• University of South Alabama
Mobile Museum of Art
www.mobiletheatreguild.org
• Playhouse-in-the-Park
Laidlaw Performing Arts Center www.usouthal.edu
Arts/Crafts McGill Toolen Summer Art CampCeramics and Painting
1501 Old Shell Road, Mobile Toolen- Room 7110 251-432-0784 ext. 2832 June 3-6, 10-13 (2 Weeks) Monday – Thursday from 9:00am-12:00pm for 5th-12th Grade only (this includes graduation seniors) Week 1 (JUNE 3-6)-Ceramics: Students will develop the art of pottery making through the use of the elements and principles of design; the elements being line, shape, space, color, texture and pattern and the principles being balance, unity, rhythm, proportion, color interaction and figure/ground relationships. Students will have the opportunity to utilize slab, coil building, hand building, glazing, molding, decorating, throwing on the potter’s wheel and firing techniques. STUDENTS HAVE THE CHOICE TO PAINT FOR 2 WEEKS IF THEY DO NOT WANT TO WORK IN CLAY. Week 2 (JUNE 10-13)- Painting: Students will develop painting techniques through the use of the elements and principles of design. Students will study color, shading, perspective, value, line, concept and composition. Classes will be held in the Toolen building in the Art room (7110). ALL SUPPLIES ARE PROVIDED along with a snack each day. Cost: $250.00, $75.00 for each additional. A non-refundable deposit of $125.00 is
See information under General Family Attractions.
Space 301
See information under General Family Attractions.
• Bass Pro Shop Summer Activities
20000 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, AL 36527 607-5900, www.basspro.com Free Crafts! Free Workshops! Free Activities! Dates and times TBA, call for more information.
• Home Depot
www.homedepot.com Children’s workshops. •FREE hands-on workshops designed for children ages 5 - 12 offered the 1st Saturday of every month at all The Home Depot stores between 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. For project details, dates and times visit website, go to the “know how” section and click on “Kids Workshops.”
• LoDa Artwalk – 2nd Fridays of each month
Second Fridays in downtown have become quite a popular time and place to be! Join downtown art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops as they open their doors. Fun for the whole family! In the Cathedral Square Art District from 6-9pm.
• Lowe’s
www.lowesbuildandgrow.com/pages/default.aspx Visit the Lowes Build and Grow website to see what exciting free projects Lowes has planned for the children. Build on your kid’s talent with regularly scheduled clin-
ics designed just for children. Build and Grow Clinics will teach your kids how to safely complete a variety of projects
• Michael’s Arts and Crafts
3250 Airport Blvd, St E31 Mobile (251) 473-8520, www.michaels.com. Lots of fun and free, “Make-It, Take-It” in-store events for kids and adults including scrapbooking, jewelry making, crafts and much more!
Farmers Markets/ Open Air Markets • Betty’s Berry Farm
3887 Driskell Loop Road, Wilmer 649-1711, www.bettysberryfarm.com Come pick your own blueberries from mid-May-July!! Our berries are never sprayed with any chemicals, so you can taste them in the field with no worries! If it’s pretty outside, we’re open. Mornings and late afternoons are the best times to pick!
• Blue Moon Farm
13620 Tom Gaston Road, Grand Bay, http://bluemoonfarm-grandbay.com 865-0252, pdk625@gmail.com Organic Blueberry U-Pick! Open Saturdays only in May... 9am- dusk. During June open Daily 9am-dusk. Come out and enjoy the country. Bring kids (and pets). Buckets to collect blueberries and bottled water available. Also U-Pick Sunflowers and Zinnias.
• Flea Market Mobile
401 Schillinger Rd. N. 633-7533, www.fleamarketmobile.com
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
800 booths under one roof! Clean and modern facilities. Rain or shine! Admission is free. Sat.-Sun., 9am – 5pm
• Market on the Hill – New Location www.ncsmobile.org; Thursdays starting May 23. 3:00pm-6:00pm. Through end of July. Get the freshest spring crops in South Alabama. Shop for locally grown honey, produce, flowers, breads, casseroles, plants, seafood and much more! Enjoy live music, children’s activities. Location: Area at Old Shell Road and University near Regions Bank. check our website for updates. • Spring Market on the Square
www.ncsmobile.org Now through Jul 28th. From 7:30am until 11am, Cathedral Square. Fresh veggies, fruits, flowers and more! Live music, arts/crafts, special events and food galore!
• Westgate Tailgate Farmers Market
633-9701; Sponsored by Providence Presbyterian Church and The Grove United Methodist Church. Thursdays 5:00-7:00pm.Westside Tailgate Farmers Market is a free, local farmers market on the west side of Mobile, AL.. The market will take place on Thursday evenings on the land owned by The Grove UMC on Snow Rd between Airport and Jeff Hamilton. Vendors will include local large and small scale farms, local honey and beeswax products, homemade dog treats, fresh eggs, hand cut soaps, pizza by the slice from Ransom Cafe, pickled items, jams, arts and crafts and much more!
Libraries/ Story Times • Mobile Public Library 2013 Summer Library Program
“Dig Into Reading” The Summer Library Program kick-
off will be held at ALL Library locations on Saturday, June 1 from 10am-12pm. Children receive a Mobile Public Library tote bag and a Mobile BayBears game voucher for Library night - Friday, July 19 when they register. Special performers, programs, storytimes and events throughout the 6 week program. Visit mplonline.org or your favorite library for details. Groundbreaking Finale will be held on Saturday, July 13 from 10:00am-1:00pm at the Mobile Museum of Art. Features free admission for participants and their families to the Museum Galleries, special Arts & Crafts, and more!
Sports Camps Inner Strength Martial Arts
9120 Airport Blvd # H, Mobile, 776-1978 Taekwondo for children and adults of all levels. Rick Hoadley, Master Instructor 7th Degree Black Belt in the martial art of Taekwondo has over 35 years of professional experience. *Also offering program for special needs children.*
McGill Toolen Summer Sports Camps
1501 Old Shell Road, Mobile, Alabama 36604 251-445-2900; www.mcgill-toolen.org Baseball - Dates: Monday June 3rd – Thursday June 6th,Times: 8am-12 noon (Lunch will be served) Where: Lipscomb Complex, Ages: Rising K-8 graders, Cost: $100.00 (Checks payable to Matt Moore) What to Bring: Cleats, glove, bat, Athletic Shoes (Concessions and apparel for sale) Contact: Matt Moore, moorem@mcgill-toolen.org Boys Basketball Shooting Camp -Dates: Wednesday May 29th – Thursday May30th, Times: 1pm-3pm Where: McGill-Toolen, Ages: Rising 5-8 graders, Cost: $50.00 (Checks payable to Phillip Murphy) What to Bring: Athletic Shoes (Snacks for sale at Concession), Contact: Phillip Murphy
Register Online @ www.mcthoops.com Boys Basketball Individual Camp -Dates: Monday June 3rd-Thursday June 6th Times: 1pm-4pm, Where: McGill-Toolen, Ages: Rising 5-8 graders, Cost: $100.00 (Checks payable to Phillip Murphy), What to Bring: Athletic Shoes (Snacks for sale at Concession) Contact: Phillip Murphy, Register Online @ www.mcthoops.com Girls Basketball -Dates: Monday June 10th – Thursday June 13th,Times: 1pm-4pm Where: McGill-Toolen, Ages: Rising 1-8 graders, Cost: $100.00 (Checks payable to Carla Berry) What to Bring: Athletic Shoes (Snacks for sale at Concession), Contact: Carla Berry- berryc@mcgill-toolen.org, 251-445-2922 Cheerleading- Date: Saturday August 17, 2013,Times: K-5 9am-12 noon, 6-8 1pm-4pm Where: McGill-Toolen, Ages: Rising K-8 graders, Cost: $40.00 (Checks payable to McGill-Toolen Cheerleading), What to Bring: Athletic Shoes, Contact: Camille Johnston- johnstc@mcgill-toolen.org 251-490-7659 Football -Dates: Monday June 17th – Thursday June 20th, Times: 8am-11am, Where: Lipscomb Complex Ages: Rising 1-8 graders, Cost: $100.00 (Checks payable to Bart Sessions) What to Bring: Athletic Cleats, Contact: Bart Sessions, bsessions@mcgill-toolen.org 251-4452924 Boys Soccer-Dates: Monday June 24th – Thursday June 27th,Times: 6pm-8pm, Where: Lipscomb Complex Ages: Rising 6-8 graders, Cost: $85.00 (Checks payable to Ruben Risco), What to Bring: Athletic Cleats, shin-guards, water, ball, Contact: Ruben Risco, riscor@ mcgill-toolen.org 251-751-8966 Co-Ed Soccer- Dates: Monday June 24th – Thursday June 27th,Times: 9am-11am,Where: Lipscomb Complex,Ages: Rising 1-5 graders, Cost: $75.00 (Checks payable to Ruben Risco) What to Bring: Athletic Cleats, shin-guards, water, ball, Contact: Ruben Risco or Paul
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Knapstein; riscor@mcgill-toolen.org or knapstp@ mcgill-toolen.org 251-751-8966. Girls Soccer- Dates: Monday July 22nd – Wednesday July 24th,Times: 9am – 11am,Where: Lipscomb Complex,Ages: Rising 6-8 graders, Cost: $85.00 (Checks payable to Ruben Risco), What to Bring: Contact: Paul Knapstein knapstp@mcgill-toolen.org 251-445-2934 Boys & Girls Tennis-Dates: Mondays June 3rd – July 29th,Times: K-2 8am-9am, 3-4 9am-10am, 5-6 10am11am, 7-9 11am-12noon,Where: Mobile Tennis Center, Ages: Rising K-8 graders, Cost: $75 (Checks payable to Jason Abraham), What to Bring: Athletic Shoes, Racket, Contact: Jason Abraham abrahaj@mcgill-toolen.org, 251-654-1120 Volleyball- Dates: Monday June 24th – Wednesday June 26th @ 1pm-4pm, Monday July 22- Wednesday July 24th @ 9am – 12 noon, Where: McGill-Toolen, Ages: Rising 3-8 graders,Cost: $95.00 for one camp or $150.00 for both camps (Checks payable to Dirty Dozen Volleyball ),What to Bring: Athletic Shoes, knee pads (Snacks for sale at Concession), Contact: Gretchen Boykin, gretcho8@comcast.net, 251-490-4815
Buy a Tag Help a Child Choose one of these specialty tags and help provide research, training and care for thousands of children suffering from cancer, cystic fibrosis or diabetes.
St. Luke’s Episcopal School Summer Sports Camps
975 Japonica Lane, Mobile (Lower School) 1400 University Blvd South (Middle and Upper School) 251-666-2991; www.sles.org St. Luke’s Athletic Department will sponsor a variety of athletic camps throughout the summer for students of all age groups. Those camps and events will be posted on the school’s website (www.stlukesmobile.com) as soon as they become available.
UMS-Wright Preparatory School
65 N. Mobile Street, Mobile. www.ums-wright.org UMS-Wright Preparatory School is once again offering a variety of sports camps this summer. Campers report to the UMS-Wright Physical Activities Complex from the Old Shell Road. Download registration form at website. Cheerleading- June 3-6, Mon – Thurs., 9:00 a.m. – Noon (Rising grades 2-6). Baseball – June 3-6 Mon – Thurs., 9:00 a.m. – Noon(Rising grades 1 – 8). Pitching - June 7 (Friday)9:00 a.m. - Noon- (Rising Grades 1 – 8). Girls’ Basketball - June 10 -13, Mon. – Thurs., 9:00 a.m. – Noon- (Rising Grades 2 – 8). Boys’ Basketball- June 17 – 20, Mon. – Thurs., 9:00 a.m. – Noon- (Rising Grades 2 – 8). Girls’ & Boys’ Soccer- July8-11, Mon. – Thurs., 8:00 a.m.-11 –(Rising Grades 1 – 6). Terry Curtis Football –July22-25, Mon.-Thurs., 9:00-Noon (Rising grades 5-8) Football Pup Camp – July 29-Aug. 1, Monday-Thurs. 9:00am-Noon (Rising grades 1-4) Jr. Volleyball- July 29-Aug 1, Monday – Thurs. 1:00pm-3:30pm(Rising Grades 3-5) MS Volleyball – July 29-Aug 1, Monday-Thurs. 1:00-3:30(Rising 6-8). Registration forms are available www.usm-wright.org.
For only $50.00 each year you can give hope and help to kids who are growing up with these diseases. Children’s of Alabama receives $41.25 from each tag purchased. You can also personalize your tag for free!
For more information, visit:
www.ChildrensAL.org/tags
Water Sports/ Cruises/ Tours • Action Outdoors – Dauphin Island
650 LeMoyne Dr., Dauphin Island 861-2201, www.actionoutdoors.org Action Outdoors offers boat trips into the waters surrounding Dauphin Island. We offer a safe comfortable trip. If you are looking for an adventure with Dolphins, planning a school field trip/eco tour, romantic cruise, or to do some inshore fishing, we can accommodate your needs.“The Duke”- Action Outdoor’s boat “The Duke” is a 44 foot Bonner, built in Wetumpka, AL. The Duke is inspected and certified by the US Coast Guard to carry 42 passengers along with her crew in bays and coastal waters within 3 miles of shore.”There is fun for the whole
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
family aboard the Duke with daily trips. Bay/Inshore Fishing-8 AM-Noon, $45 Adults & $30 Kids 6-12 yrs. Kids 5 years and under FREE, Lighthouse/Shrimping/ Dolphin Tours-1 PM-4PM; $35 Adults & $25 Kids 6-12 yrs. Kids 5 years and under FREE, Sunset Cruises-5PM8PM, $35 Adults & $25 Kids 6-12 yrs. Kids 5 years and under FREE.. For further information, please visit our website or contact us at (251) 861-2201.
Two Wheel Tours offers a unique view of the city from the seat of a bike. Bicycle, helmet and water are provided. A variety of tours offered.
• Bow Fishing the Delta
3775 Battleship Pkwy., 680-4477 Visit the second largest river delta in the US and view treasures including flowers, birds and alligators! Private tours, alligator excursions, eco-tours, sunset tours, sight seeing trips, photography tours, bowfishing trips and more! Call Capt. Chris Mixon for an appointment. (Seasonal: March - November.) Trips depart from the BLUEGILL restaurant.
Battleship Causeway, Mobile, 272 4088, Field & Streams ‘Total Outdoorsman’ two-time winner (2010 & 2011) - Tom Boatwright designed Bow Fishing Adventures, in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Bow Fishing in this region starts in June and gets better with each passing month. One of the fastest growing hunting/fishing sports, a mixture of archery and fishing is a high energy, simple and fun-filled evening of sportmanship, fishing and conservation. While some of the fish you shoot are good eating, the majority will be invasive species whose capture will help in the preservation of food and habitats for the native fish species of the delta.This is four hours of action packed fun available to all ages 9 and older Tours depart at dusk and last 4 hours.
• Alabama Cruises’ Kingfisher
• Delta Airboat Express
• Airboat Adventures
12402 Bellingrath Gardens Rd., Theodore, 973-1244 www.alabamacruises.com An open air vessel with a seating capacity of 20, provides intimate views of wildlife and their habitats. The Kingfisher is available for cruises at 10:00 am, 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm starting March 2. These 45 minute cruises are seven days a week.
• Alabama Cruises’ Southern Belle
12402 Bellingrath Gardens Rd., Theodore 973-1244, www.alabamacruises.com Located at Bellingrath Gardens, 150 passenger ‘Southern Belle’ offers 45 minute fun and informative sightseeing cruises. Dinner cruises operate Friday and Saturday nights, Feb-Nov and daily in December. Prepaid reservation required. Private charters available.
• Bicycle Tours of Downtown Mobile 635-6002, www.2-wheel-tours.com
3733 Battleship Parkway, 251-370-7089 www.airboatexpress.com; Take a tour with us and experience a treat for the whole family! Learn about the wildlife in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta while having an educational, fun airboat ride that the whole family will enjoy! Our airboat tour is the best that Alabama has to offer! Our tour allows you to experience the delta at a whole new level. Get to know the delta and see why it is honored as a National Landmark! Delta Airboat Express is the perfect way to see much of the delta and learn about the wildlife. Take a tour with us and we will show you why the delta is Alabama’s most beautiful natural resource and natural hidden beauty. Trips depart from the Original Oyster House in Spanish Fort on the Causeway. Reservations required. Seasonal: February through mid - November.
• Delta Explorer
259-8531 www.blakeleypark.com/delta.asp Educational and FUN! Book at tour (approximately 2
hours) aboard the “Delta Explorer” . . . combine it with a *guided tour of Historic Blakeley State Park for an outstanding adventure. Journey with us by boat through the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, one of Alabama’s Ten Natural Wonders. Visit this wilderness eco-system where you will find wetland habitats ranging from marsh to cypresstupelo swamp and bottomland hardwoods. The Delta is also home to the State’s largest population of Experience this adventure from the comfort of the covered “Delta Explorer” eco-tour boat, complete with bench seating and restroom facility.
• Delta Safaris
30945 Five Rivers Blvd, Spanish Fort (251) 259-8531, www.5rds.com You will get an in-depth a look at the USA’s 2nd largest Delta from a perspective that very few have seen.Guided Eco-Safaris, Interpretive Tours & the Bartram Canoe Trail- 5RDS offers 3 hour, 6 hour, full day adventures and multiple day “full service” Safari style expeditions into the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Choose from: ◦5RDS popular 3 hour paddles - lower Delta ($40 per person) and Cypress Swamp ($45 per person). ◦The educational and adventure filled 6 hour Indian Mound & Champion Cypress route ($55 per person). ◦Any one of the Bartram Canoe Trail 1/2 day ($55 per person), full day ($65 per person) and multiple day sections ($65 - $115 per person, per night, depending on service level), or ◦One of 5RDS Bartram Expedition overnight routes, specifically designed to incorporate the best of what the Delta has to offer ($65 - $115 per person, per night, depending on service level).
• Daily Eco-Safari of the Lower Delta
During this Lower Delta Interpretive Tour, we will float amongst the open Marsh watching for and learning about a variety of wildlife including Alligators, Bald Eagle, Osprey, Heron, Cormorant, Pelicans, Nutria, Otters and
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
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more. Learn about the Civil War, the history, the Native American tribes, the geology, the ecology and the characters of the Delta. Commentary provided by qualified Delta Nature Guides. This is a 2 hour interpretive boat tour.
• Mobile Bay Ferry
Summer Tutoring Lindamood-Bell Learning
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OnTuesdays • Causeway Location Only
51 State Highway 180 West, Gulf shores 861-3000, www.mobilebayferry.com Daily departures every 1 ½ hours. Ferry runs between Dauphin Island and Fort Morgan.
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KIDS EAT FREE!
2864 Dauphin Street, Suite D, Mobile 473-6808; Toll Free: 800-300-1818 www.lindamoodbell.com; mobile.center@lindamoodbell.com “We create the magic of learning!” Founded in 1986 by Patricia Lindamood and Nanci Bell, Lindamood-Bell is dedicated to enhancing human learning. Our founders are the authors of critically acclaimed instructional programs that teach children and adults to read, spell, comprehend, think critically, and express language.
107 N. Lafayette Street 251-433-9904; www. stmarymobile.org St. Mary Catholic School will hold its annual Enrichment Series July 22 through July 26, 2013. The program runs for one week, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.. The Cost is $150 per child with a $50 deposit required. The program is staffed by highly qualified instructors including Reading/Math Intervention Teachers, and certified Reading and Math Teachers. Technology based Interactive learning that engages students will be implemented. Guided Reading and Writing instruction and literacy work stations targeting skill development to include comprehension and fluency will be addressed. Guided Math instruction will include reinforcement of computation, strategies for problem solving, and test taking skills using manipulatives in work stations. Students may bring a snack and beverage daily. For additional information, please contact Kathryn Beagle or Linda Thornton, 433-9904, lthornton@stmarymobile.org.
Sylvan Learning Center
3964 Airport Blvd, 251-344-6284 8020 Moffett Rd, Semmes, AL 36575, 251-649-8522 Avoid Summer learning loss. Make Sylvan a part of your summer schedule and make Back to School time a big success! Sylvan has summer programs to help your child catch up, keep up, or get ahead. Whether your child needs remediation or enrichment, Sylvan can help! Call today for your FREE consultation and to book your Skills Assessment.
Entertainment for Kids • Playground • Boat Dock • Private Room for Birthday Parties
3733 Battleship Pkwy • Mobile • 251-626-2188 Hwy 59 • Original Oyster House Boardwalk • 251-948-2445
FOLLOW US
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iphone
The Think Tank
251-414-4494; www.TheThinkTankTutoring.com Improve your child’s grades with One-On-One tutoring in your home! The Think Tank Tutoring and Educational Services is your solution • All Subjects • PreK - Adult • SAT/ACT Prep • Reading • LD/ADD • Math • Science • Foreign Languages •SOAR Study Skills. • Affordable Rates • Certified Teachers. Summer Tutoring is a great way to catch up & get ahead with Reading and Math! OUR AVERAGE STUDENT IMPROVES 2 LETTER GRADES IN 90 DAYS! Now Offering Summer School! Call for details.
• Kumon Learning Center
3152 Old Shell Road, Mobile 251-447-2264, www.kumon.com/mobile-spring-hill Kumon is the world’s largest after-school math and reading enrichment program. Kumon unlocks the potential of children so they can achieve more on their own. MBP
Visit www.MobileBayParents.com
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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
Foster Parenting
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Opening Your Home and Your Heart by Christie del Amo Johnson
To say Auburn University athletic director, Jay Jacobs, is busy would be an understatement. Besides managing some of the top athletic teams in the nation, he is also a father of three. “Who’s not busy? Everybody is busy, but you do the things that are important to you,” he says. Jacobs and his wife, Angie, found that helping children was important to them. They decided becoming foster parents would be the best way to do that. “Until we got into this, I had no idea of the depth and the need for foster parents,” he says. “As soon as we got into it, we realized that there are so many children who need help.” In the last four years, they’ve fostered three children and have done short term respite care for another three. The children have varied in age from newborn to six-years-old. “This is our ministry as a family. Since February 2009 we’ve probably not had foster children for only four months,” says Angie Jacobs. It’s a ministry Wetumpka mother, Dawn Acosta, and her family have also taken on. While she doesn’t receive national exposure in her job, her duties Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
as a parent of two girls, ages 13 & 15, is also demanding. But she’ll tell you, there’s always enough time to care about others. The Acosta family has cared for three infants in the foster care system. “The thought of a parent and child being separated is difficult,” she says. “If this is encouraging the child’s parent to get their lives right and do what they need to do we’re glad to have been a part of that.” Alabama Department of Human Resources Commissioner, Nancy Buckner, says there are roughly 6000 children in state foster care right now. Which is why, she says, they need more people willing to care for them. “It is so important for them to go on with a normal life. This is a very traumatic thing for children. As much as we can do to normalize it, the better that child’s well-being is going to be,” Buckner adds.
Is it Right For You?
Agape of Central Alabama is a nonprofit, faith-based, child placement agency licensed by the state. Buddy Renahan, Director of Social Services, says out of every ten people who come to them expressing 52
interest in foster parenting, two will end up taking it on. “Not everybody is cut out for it and that’s okay. We don’t want to force fit, we want people who are naturally inclined for it,” says Renahan. The state guidelines for becoming a foster parent are simple: • You are at least 19 years of age. • You can provide a safe, comfortable atmosphere for the child. • Your home conforms to Alabama Minimum Standards for Foster Family Homes. • Your home has enough space for the child and his or her belongings. • All members of your family are willing to share their home with a child who needs care. • All members of your family are in good health. • All adults in the home are willing to undergo a thorough background check, including criminal history. • Once approved, foster parents are also required to complete a 30-hour preparation course and receive information to help prepare them for a rewarding family experience. Advertising: 251-304-1200
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Adopting Through Foster Care
Alabama DHR Commissioner Nancy Buckner says a great avenue for adoption is through foster care. There are several hundred children in Alabama’s foster care system waiting to be adopted. If someone is fostering a child that comes up for adoption, she says, foster parents do get priority. To see a list of children awaiting adoption in Alabama, visit www.heartgalleryalabama.org or www.adoptuskids.org. But, experts say it takes more than that to become SUCCESSFUL foster parents. You need to be: • Realistic: The families that do foster care and continue to do foster care have realistic expectations. They don’t think of saving the world or rescuing the child. “The foster families that go the distance say we’re having a positive impact by showing these children positive interactions. You have to go into it knowing that you may not see the end result. The foster families have said they feel that they are making a difference just by sharing their families and their lives with these children and knowing that one day they will have made a difference,” says Renahan. • Understanding: It’s a big adjustment having someone new come into your home, but remember this is a traumatic time for these children as well. Many children come from different backgrounds and life experiences. Buckner says, “They’re not perfect. They’re going to make mistakes just like any child. They need someone to guide them.” • Non-Judgmental: The ideal goal of fostering is to, eventually, have the child reunite with their parents. In the end, it’s what’s best for the child. For that reason, you need to be willing to not only accept the child, but accept their parents despite the mistakes they’ve made. “They need to love their birth family and have them respected,” says Renahan. “These children need to want to go back home because about six out of ten of them will go home. What I hope is the child comes and stays so their next move is their last move. I want that to be the birth family because that’s what the child wants.” • Loving: Don’t be afraid to open your Visit www.MobileBayParents.com
heart. They need more than just a place to stay. They need love and support. “I want to stress the importance of taking them in and making them a part of your family. If you plan a family vacation, take them with you. Seek to involve them and make them a part of your family life,” says Acosta. Buckner says, for someone who loves children and wants to help, it’s not a difficult process. She adds, “I truly believe it is one of the most rewarding things an adult can do. Children come into foster care through no fault of their own. They need someone who is going to be there and care for them. They’re just like other children.” The Jacobs and Acosta families couldn’t agree more. Dawn Acosta always looks forward to the day when her foster children are reunited with their families. “In the time we have them, we want them to see an intact family that loves them,” says Acosta. “To have them see that this cycle, the one their family is completing, does not have to be the one they live in. I want to give them the opportunity to break that cycle and see that they can go on to be whole mothers and fathers and grow a family that’s intact.” Meanwhile, the Jacobs’ recently finished an 18-month placement with a child who was adopted by someone in the community. “When I look at them, especially
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when they’re sleeping, and their little sweet innocent baby faces, it just warms my heart to know that for a time, they are in a safe place. They’re being nurtured, loved, and provided for,” says Angie Jacobs. “There is such a shortage, there’s such a need for foster families. It’s an easy choice for us. We can do this for someone for a little while.” Jacobs adds, “You don’t have to jump into the deep end. You can wade into the water and see what it’s like.” For more information on becoming a foster parent: Alabama Department of Human Services www.dhr.alabama.gov Agape of Central Alabama www.agapeforchildren.org Foster Care: Change a Lifetime www.fostercaremonth.org Christie del Amo Johnson spent more than 10 years as a television news reporter in several cities including Birmingham, Alabama before she decided to tackle her toughest job yet...motherhood. She now spends her days raising her inquisitive daughter, Mia, and her nights and naptimes as a freelance writer. Photo by Todd Van Emst, Auburn Athletics Department.
Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
Family Calendar Ongoing
Civil War Fort Gaines Historic Site, Dauphin Island. For more info call (251) 861-6992. www.dauphinisland.org. Concerts in the Park Sponsored by Mobile Pops Band. For more info call (251) 679-4876. www.mobilepopsband.com. Five Rivers Delta Resource Center April 1 – May 19. Apalachee Exhibit “Alabama in the Making: Traditional Arts of People and Place”. Ever wondered how to make goat stew? Or a pine needle basket to put your stew in? Well you are in luck, because 5 Rivers will be THE place to be to get information on Alabama folk art traditions when this traveling exhibit comes to the Apalachee Exhibit Hall. The exhibit offers collections of photographs, video, and audio interviews from Alabamians sharing their experiences in folk and traditional arts, including food preparation, music, occupational folklore and material culture. The collections have been gathered by the Alabama Folklife Association, which is based in Birmingham. There will be 5 separate kiosks, covering the Gulf Coast, the Southern Appalachians, the Wiregrass, the Black Belt and Tennessee Valley regions. Fort Conde Welcome Center Sponsored by Mobile Convention & Visitors Corp. Mobile. For more info call (251) 208-7658. www.mobile.org. Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center Government St. Mon. - Fri., 9 - 5; Sat, 10 - 5; Sun, noon - 5. Adults (19 - 59)/ $14; youth (13 - 18) & senior citizens (60+)/ $12.50; children/ $12; Combo tickets include a viewing of an IMAX film: $18; $17; $15.50. HandsOn South Alabama (Formerly Volunteer Mobile, Inc.). For information on Local Volunteer Opportunities, contact 251-433-4456, www.handsonsal.org. Joe Jefferson Players Mobile. For information call (251) 471-1534. www.jjp.com. LODA Artwalk Second Fridays in Downtown – LoDa Arts District. Exhibitions (with receptions) and entertainment in a variety of downtown galleries and other venues. City of Mobile Neighborhood and Community Services. 6 - 9 p.m. Check NCS website for complete list of activities/map after noon the day of the event. For more information, please contact: 251-208-7443 or visit www.ncsmobile.org. Mobile Ballet For information about performances call (251) 3422241 or visit www.mobileballet.com. Mobile International Speedway Irvington. For information call (251) 957-2026. www. mobilespeedway.com. Mobile Opera Mobile. For information call (251) 476-7372. www.mobileopera.org. Mobile Symphony Mobile. For information call (251) 432-2010. www.mobilesymphony.org. Oakleigh Museum House Mobile. For information call (251) 432-1281. www.historicmobile.org. Richards-Dar House Museum Mobile. For information call (251) 208-7320. St. Mary Parish Family Fridays Following the Friday night 5 p.m. Stations of the Cross & 5:30 p.m. Mass. Please join us for a great seafood dinner on each Friday during Lent, through March 22. Sponsored by St. Mary’s Knights of Columbus Council 13163. Fare each week: $7 adult dinner, $5 children’s dinner, includes beverage. Family Friday Dinners will be held in the St. Mary Catholic School
Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
April/May2013
Gymnasium located at 107 N. Lafayette Street. For more information, contact the church office at 4328678, ext. 1. USS Alabama Battleship 2703 Battles Parkway, Mobile. (251) 433-2703. www. ussalabama.com. VSA Arts & Easter Festival Mobile. For information call (251) 343-0958.
Classes/Meetings
APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Regency Church of Christ, 501 S. University Blvd., Mobile. Parent, Youth/Teen Group and Childcare Is Provided. Topic Discussions & ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information please call 251-4602727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@childrensaid.org. Azalea City Harmony Chorus of Sweet Adelines Meets/rehearses each Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Corner of Sage Ave. and Airport Blvd. For more info call 251-380-0579 or visit www. azaleacityharmony.com. Mobile Bay Area La Leche League Meetings are the second Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. The number to call for the location is 251689-2085. We can also be found on Facebook at mobile bay area la leche league. The Family Center of Mobile • Nurturing Parenting course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. May 1: What Is Child Abuse & Neglect? May 8: Guidance & Discipline Part One May 15: Guidance & Discipline Part Two May 22: The Power of Praise & Positive Attention May 29: Family Rules & Building Family Closeness Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-wk rotating series. Call 251-479-5700 to register. • The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. • Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 weeks. • Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (4 things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. May 7: Sharing Emotional Encouragement May 14: Communicating to Connect May 21: Involvement in Social Modeling May 28: Teaching Values & Making A Life Change • Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks. May 2: Defining, Responding To and Learning from Anger May 9: Defining Abuse: Causes & Consequences May 16: Acceptance: Learning Relaxation Exercises May 23: Emotional Intelligence: Techniques, Planning a personal strategy, conflict resolution skills & problem solving 251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center classes. All classes are free and offer free childcare WITH 24-HR RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. www.familycentermobile.org or www. Facebook.com/FatherhoodProgramMobile. The Family Center of Baldwin County is located at 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne. The Family Center of Baldwin County Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m.: Quenching the Father Thirst, (what every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.: Nurturing Parenting course teaches parenting skills such as praise & positive attention and building family closeness. 12-wk rotating series. Call 251-626-1610 for info on or to register for classes in Daphne, 27365 Pollard Rd, near the Y. Classes are free and offer free childcare WITH 24-HR
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RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, please call the childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000. • Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings for families and caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Meets every second Thursday of every month. E.A. Roberts Alzheimer’s Center, 169 Mobile Infirmary Blvd. Preregistration Not required. Free. Call 251-435-6950 for more information. 10-11 a.m. • Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Pre-registration is required; call 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. • Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Gastric Bypass Support Meets every 2nd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia. Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care. A maternity tour is included. Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital is pleased to offer a variety of classes on childbirth issues. All classes are located in Conference Room I (located just inside the main lobby doors of the hospital beside the Gift Shop) unless otherwise specified. To register for classes or for more information, you may call 639-2938 to speak with our Childbirth Educator, Kathy Wade RN, or email kwade@providencehospital.org. For Daytime Breastfeeding classes only, you may call Marcia Ranew RN, our Lactation Consultant at 633-1749 or email mranew@providencehospital.org. Support Groups • Providence Hospital Breast “Friends” Meets the second Friday of every month at noon in the Moore Conference Room. The Moore Conference Room is located in the cafeteria. Call Robi Jones for more information, 251-639-2852. • Diabetes Support Group Classes meet in the Diabetes Center, Suite D-436 in the Providence Medical Office Plaza. Call 251-633-1987 for more information. Spring Hill Medical Center: www.springhillmedicalcenter.com • Better Breathers Support Group Meeting For people with pulmonary disorders. Meets on the fourth Monday of each month. 2-3 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. For more information, call 461-2438. • Breastfeeding Class One Wednesday per month. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Family Center. Benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, going back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation Classes Four consecutive Mondays (6:30-9 p.m.) at The Family Center. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units. Cost:
Advertising: 251-304-1200
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Family Calendar $25 if delivering at Springhill Hospital. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation: Accelerated Course One Saturday per month. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The Family Center. Ideal for those who live out of town or will be delivering soon. $25. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings Noon on the First Sunday of the month. Join us for an individualized tour and instruction for siblings ages 9 and younger. The event includes a tour of the maternity areas and tips on helping parents with the new baby. Parents must remain with their children. By Appointment ONLY. Call 340-7769 to schedule an appointment. • Infant CPR Learn this potentially life-saving technique while you are pregnant or soon after your baby’s birth. Covers infant CPR and choking. $5 if delivering at SMC. 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Family Center (Bldg. 2, Fourth Floor). Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • NAMI Mobile Support Group A support group for family members of those who suffer from mental illness. Meetings are held the third Monday of every month. For more information: Diane Kent at 591-8021. 6-7 p.m., Spring Hill Baptist Church Activity Center. • Resolve Through Sharing For parents who have lost a child before or immediately after birth. Meets the fourth Monday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. Call 460-5323. USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1069. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Advanced payment required to secure your reservation. If you are expecting multiples or having a c-section, please call for additional class information. • Preparing for Childbirth All-day Saturday class for the expectant mother and her support person (coach). Topics include: pregnancy changes, labor, role of the support coach, relaxation and breathing techniques, vaginal and cesarean births, postpartum care, and a tour of the maternity areas. Fee per couple: $30. You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Every other month, 9-2. • Childbirth in a Nutshell This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets first Tuesday every other month from 6:30-9 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Fee per couple: $15. • Breastfeeding This one-night class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Topics include advantages, myths and facts, getting started, correct positioning, latching on, engorgement, returning to work and problem-solving. Class meets second Thursday from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital Fee: $5. Registration Information: Payments are accepted by check, money order, cash and credit card. Make checks and money orders payable to USACW Education Department. Credit card payments are accepted by calling 415-1685. Mail payments for classes to: University of South Alabama, Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Education Department, 1700 Center St., Mobile, AL 36604.
Friday, April 19 Aladdin, Jr! –St. Paul’s School
Visit www.MobileBayParents.com
April/May2013
The wonderfully talented St. Paul’s Players present this year’s Spring Show, Aladdin, Jr! with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice. Disney’s classic hit is musical fun for the entire family. This bright, fast-paced, fun-filled show will be presented, under the direction of Jody Powell, in the Monte L. Moorer Theater at St. Paul’s Episcopal School. Show times are at 7 p.m. with a matinee at 2:00 on April 20. Tickets are $10. For more information, please call the school at 251-342-6700 or email Catherine Inge - cminge@stpaulsmobile.net. Cyrano de Bergerac – University of South Alabama Since Coquelin toured America in the play in 1900 with Sarah Bernhardt, productions have been celebrated as one of the classic versions of a great and secret love story. Fluid, funny, and yet fragile, the production survives on sheer “panache.” Antony Burgess’ translation and adaptation of this deeply romantic comedy. The play will be on: April 19, 20, 25, 26 & 27 at 7:30 p.m., April 21 at 2 p.m. at The Laidlaw Performing Arts Center is located on the corner of University Boulevard and USA Drive South. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call (251) 460-6306 or visit http:// www.southalabama.edu/drama/index.html. Springhill College Soccer Announces 2013 Free Camp Dates Spring Hill College has announced the schedule and dates for its annual free co-educational “Kickin’ It Up” Youth Soccer Camps for all players K-8th grade. There will three Friday afternoon camps at Library Field on the campus of Spring Hill College on April 5, 12 and 19, with each camp running from 5:00-6:15 p.m.Camp sessions will be run by the coaching staff and players of Spring Hill College while stressing basic skills, games and competition, but the focus will be on having fun while playing and learning the game of soccer. All skill levels are encouraged to attend. Walk-up registrations are welcome, but advance reservations are encouraged. To register or if there are additional questions please contact SHC Head Women’s Soccer Coach Christian DeVries at (205) 380-4472 or cdevries@shc.edu. Registration forms and the camp’s itinerary can be printed under “Camps” at www.shcbadgers.com.
Saturday, April 20
5th Annual Gumbo Cook-off Come enjoy the 5th Annual Gumbo Cook-off as teams battle it out to see whose gumbo recipe tops them all! There will be activities for children. Kids under 10 get in free. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the gate.. For more information call 251-5446100. Proceeds will support the services and programs of the American Red Cross. This event takes place in Bienville Square from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Please visit www.alredcross.org/gumbocookoff for more information. Aladdin, Jr! –St. Paul’s School See April 19 for details. Community Health and Wellness Fair We invite you to attend this FREE health and wellness fair. Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 545 Cody Road North Mobile. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. For more information, please contact: FeAunte Preyear: 251-6489773 or fpreyear@usouthal.edu. Discovery Day at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab “Discovery Day” is a family friendly open house which provides the public an opportunity to explore research projects through hands on exhibits, interaction with marine scientists, and by offering free child’s and discounted adult admission to the Estuarium, the Sea Lab’s public aquarium. Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. For more information, please contact: Lori Angelo251-861-2141 or langelo@disl.org.
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11th Annual St. Francis Episcopal Church Arts & Crafts Festival at Dauphin Island Over 60 artists and crafters will exhibit and sell their work at the 11th Annual St. Francis Episcopal Church Arts and Crafts Festival. The Episcopal Church Women will have their famous GUMBO (frozen) for sale, along with Wimberly Hory’s Famous Chicken Salad. Come to the Island and find a treasure under the majestic oaks at St. Francis! 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Music of Queen by the Mobile Symphony Orchestra Mobile Symphony Orchestra; conductor: Brent Havens; with full rock band and vocalist Brody Dolyniuk. 8 p.m. Saenger Theatre (6 S. Joachim St.) Tickets to see The Music of Queen range from $35 - $83 and limited box seats for $100. Tickets are on sale at the Mobile Symphony Box Office, 257 Dauphin Street, or charge by phone at 251-432-2010 or online at mobilesymphony.org. Something Special - Let’s Fly a Kite! Calling all children – Listen to a story about flying kites and then make your own paper bag kites to fly outside the Library. Moorer/Spring Hill Branch 10:30 a.m. Registration is required for groups. For more information or to register, please call 4707770 or email mlmref@mplonline.org. Color Me Rad 5K Color Me Rad is coming to a town near you with a tsunami of color that’ll make colored tears of joy run down your cheeks and will renew your will to live. You’ll start off with a shirt as pure and white as your grandpa’s dentures and you’ll soak up enough color while running to change your skin tone forever. You’ll wind up looking like a pack of skittles – just make sure not to “taste the rainbow.” So cast your DYE and get red in the face from Color Me Rad, and not from the embarrassment of passing up on the run of a lifetime. Please visit http://www.colormerad. com for more information. Azalea City Bonsai Society - Spring Regional Bonsai Exhibit The Azalea City Bonsai Society of Mobile is hosting the Tri-City Bonsai Exhibition at the Library today. The show will be a formal exhibit of 50+ bonsai trees from across the region. Bonsai artists will be available to discuss the horticulture and art of bonsai and provide educational information to the public. West Regional Branch from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. For more information please call 208-7097. Cyrano de Bergerac – University of South Alabama See April 19 for more information. Mobile Botanical Gardens Marketplace Saturdays Marketplace Saturdays is from 9-11 a.m. every Saturday through June 30. Buy native plants, get great ideas from experts and support the Gardens. Location: Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Dr. Please visit http://mobilebotanicalgardens.org.
Sunday, April 21
5 Rivers Sunday Matinee Come out and join us every Sunday for a free, family friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week’s film takes a closer look at honey bees in Bees: Tales from the Hive. Cyrano de Bergerac – University of South Alabama See April 19 for more information.
Monday, April 22
Jazz Jamabalya: Rifftide – The conversations of Albert Murray and Papa Jo Jones Mobile writer and music essayist Albert Murray recorded conversations with Alabama-born jazz drummer Papa Jo Jones between 1977 and 1985; then collaborated with New York writer Paul Devlin to edit the conversations into a book, Rifftide: The Life and Opinions of Papa Jo Jones. Excerpts from
Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
Family Calendar the taped conversations and live jazz, with Devlin as a special guest. Presenter: MOJO (Mystic Order of the Jazz Obsessed) and the Southern Literary Trail. A Southern Literary Trail Trailfest 2013 event. 6:30 p.m. Gulf City Lodge (601 State St.). Free. Funded in part by the Alabama Humanities Foundation, a state program of the National Endowment for the Humanities. 251-459-2298/ www.mojojazz.org.
Tuesday, April 23
The Eugene Walter Lecture by John T Edge James Beard Award winner John T Edge (Southern Foodways Alliance) inaugurates an annual Eugene Walter Lecture Series that examines Southern cooking, named for the Mobile author of several cookbooks, including the American Cooking: Southern Style published by Time-Life. Presenter: Historic Mobile Preservation Society and the Southern Literary Trail. A Southern Literary Trail Trailfest 2013 event. 7 p.m. Oakleigh (300 Oakleigh Pl.). Funded in part by the Alabama Humanities Foundation, a state program of the National Endowment for the Humanities. 251-4321281 (HMPS)/ www.southernliterarytrail.org.
Wednesday, April 24
Brown Bag in Bienville Square Spring has sprung in downtown Mobile! Come out and listen to the soothing Sounds of live jazz as you lunch in Bienville Square. Wednesdays through May. 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 25
Art After Hours An informal gathering - with refreshments - for everyone involved or interested in any of the arts. Coordinated by Mobile Arts Council but each quarterly event is hosted by a different organization/ business. Historic Mobile Preservation Society. 5:30 - 7 p.m. Oakleigh (300 Oakleigh Pl.). Free, but if you plan to attend, email hanaya@mobilearts.org by Mon., Apr 22. 251-432-9796/ www.mobilearts.org. Cyrano de Bergerac – University of South Alabama See April 19 for more information.
Friday, April 26
Springhill Sidewalk-a-thon The Village of Spring Hill’s Second Annual Sidewalk-athon (by and for kids). Please join us from 3-4 p.m. for the start Line Party. The walk begins at 4 p.m. The Finish Line Party will be from 4-6 p.m. and the walk will begin at Moorer Branch Library and end at Lavretta Park. The Pirates of Penzance USA Opera Theatre presents Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Pirates of Penzance. Thomas Rowell, director 7:30 p.m. University of South Alabama, Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Recital Hall. General/ $8, USA students, faculty and staff, senior citizens, children under 18/ $5. Contact: 251-460-6136/ www.southalabama.edu/music. Cyrano de Bergerac – University of South Alabama See April 19 for more information.
Saturday, April 27
Spring Market on the Square Opening day of Spring Market on the Square from 7:3011:00 a.m. Shop for the freshest crop in town! This time of year is our favorite because you can get locally grown: tomatoes, potatoes, sweet corn, cantaloupe, watermelon, seafood, flowers, plants, baked breads, pasta’s casseroles, pies, handcrafted goods and so much more. Stay for live music on the green! Each Saturday through July 28th. For more information, please call 208-1558. The Pirates of Penzance 3 p.m. See April 26 for more information.
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April/May2013
5th Annual Delta Woods and Waters Expo Come out and enjoy the 2nd largest river delta which is found in our very own backyard! The Delta Woods and Waters Expo give children and adults alike the chance to explore all the ways one can use the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Hands on demonstrations such as fly tying, turkey calling, live raptor shows, and more will be occurring throughout the day. The event is free from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and everyone is welcome to join us. For more information on the presentations, visit us online at www.deltawoodsandwatersexpo.com. Earth Day Mobile Bay The Mobile Bay area celebration of Earth Day is inspired by the worldwide and national Earth Day, which promotes environmental citizenship and steers environmental awareness around the world. Planned are environmental displays, films and exhibits, educational activities for children and adults, plus great live music and activities! Free Fun for the entire family! Bring computers, old TV’s, analog TV’s, other obsolete or broken electronics and other items for recycling. Totally free admission and free BRATS bus rides from off-site parking. Fairhope Pier Park from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Infirmary Twilight Duathlon Join us for the Infirmary Twilight Duathlon, 2 mile run/10 mile bike/2 mile run. Relay Teams Welcome! Come join the 2-mile Fun Run! PRO Health Fitness Center, 166 Mobile Infirmary Blvd. Start time 5 p.m. After Party 6 - 9 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.infirmaryduathlon.racesonline.com. 2013 Mobile Crawfish Festival Get ready for a Louisiana Cajun Party right here in Mobile. Fresh, Huge Bayou Crawfish cooked live at the festival served with Cajun favorites like Corn, & Potatoes. 2013 Festival Hours Saturday 11 – 6, Sunday: 12 – 4. Location: 1621 Virginia St, Price: $5 admission. For more information, please visit http:// mobilecrawfishfestival.com Cyrano de Bergerac – University of South Alabama See April 19 for more information. Mobile Botanical Gardens Marketplace Saturdays Marketplace Saturdays is from 9-11 a.m. every Saturday through June 30. Buy native plants, get great ideas from experts and support the Gardens. Location: Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Dr. Please visit http://mobilebotanicalgardens.org.
Sunday, April 28 2013 Mobile Crawfish Festival See April 27 for more information.
Tuesday, April 30
Spring Concert: University of South Alabama Symphony Band Conductor: Ward Miller. 7:30 p.m. University of South Alabama, Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Recital Hall. General/ $8, USA students, faculty and staff, senior citizens, children under 18/ $5. 251-460-6136/www. southalabama.edu/music.
Wednesday, May 1 Brown Bag in Bienville Square See April 24 for more information.
Thursday, May 2
Annie Sunny Side Theater announces its upcoming production of Annie, the beloved tale of an orphan whose positive thinking lands her in the arms of Daddy Warbucks! Complete with all of your favorite songs, this tale is sure to bring parents back to their childhood and open children’s eyes to the wonderful world of musical theater. Following the Sunny Side Theater philosophy, all children who auditioned received parts and everyone is involved in multiple
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aspects of the play. Public performances are Thursday, May 2 at 6:30 p.m., Friday, May 3 at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, May 4 at 2 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 5 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 adults, $8 ages 13-19, and $5 for 12 and under. Performances take place at the Moorer Center for the Performing Arts located on the St. Luke’s High School campus, 1600 University Boulevard. School shows are Thursday at 9 a.m. and Friday at 9 and 11 a.m. Call owner/director Chris Paragone at 251-510-1808 for more details or e-mail dramacamp@mindspring.com to make a reservation. Heart Ball for American Heart Association Please join us for the Heart Ball, an elegant celebration of life, with proceeds benefiting the American Heart Association. The evening celebrates: our work, mission, donors, volunteers, and most importantly the lives saved and improved because of everyone’s effort. The Heart Ball promises to be an engaging evening of fun and passion bringing community and philanthropic leaders together. Last year, funds raised at Heart Ball events nationwide allowed us to fund over $123 million of research and programs across the country and in your community. 6-9 p.m. at Ft. Whiting. Please visit https://ahamobile.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/20122013Mo bileHeartBall/tabid/419713/Default.aspx for more information. An Evening with Vince Gill The performance will be an intimate evening of music with the mission of the campaign to build a new shelter to better serve the homeless and addicted in the Mobile area. Tickets start at $250 for individuals. There will be several levels of tickets and tables that top out at $10,000 for a VIP table. This event takes place at 6 p.m. at the Alabama Cruise Terminal. Cocktails with the Critters for Dauphin Island Sea Lab Stig Marcussen will be on hand to add color to his limited edition prints designed for the event; music by the Modern Eldorados; silent auction; hors d’oeuvres and wine and beer. Benefits Dauphin Island Sea Lab Foundation. 6 – 9 p.m. Tacky Jacks. In advance/ $50; at the door/ $55. Contact: 251-605-6624/ www. sealabfoundation.org. Spring Concert: University of South Alabama Concert Choir and University Chorale Conductor: Laura Moore. 7:30 p.m. University of South Alabama, Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Recital Hall. General/ $8, USA students, faculty and staff, senior citizens, children under 18/ $5. Contact: 251-460-6136/ www.southalabama.edu/music.
Friday, May 3
Gallery of Gardens 2013 Explore 8 private gardens, plus a whole street! Get ideas, then get the plants at MBG Marketplace. 9 -5 daily. Tickets at MBG or local outlets. $20 advance, $25 tour days. Group rates avail. Mobile Botanical Gardens- 5151 Museum Dr. May 3 - 4, 9 - 5. Please visit http://www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org for more information. Free Health Fair at Coastal Clinical Research Join us from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., for light refreshments, blood pressure checks, blood sugar checks, carbon monoxide screenings and information about how to quit smoking. Coastal Clinical Research, 100 Memorial Dr. Annex Building, Suite 3B. For more information, please visit http:// www.coastalclinicalresearch.com Annie See May 2 for more information.
Saturday, May 4
Environmental Studies Center Open House 6101 Girby Road, between Burns Middle School and Infirmary West. Please join Mobile Baykeeper and other exhibitors from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Raptor Show 12:00. Free Admission.
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Porch Tour We are excited about the 2013 Historic Oakleigh Porch Tour! This year the tour will include porches from Washington Square to the edge of Oakleigh at Selma and Ann Streets. Twelve porches will be open to the public for viewing, sitting and of course southern conversation! Porch time will be from 10 a.m. -2 p.m. and tickets are $10 each, 13 and under free. Please see http://www.oakleighporches.com/ for more information. Commedia del Arte – The Original Tale of Peter Pan Join Wendy, Michael, and John on the adventure of a lifetime as they fly into Neverland with Peter Pan and Tinkerbell. A portion of the proceeds benefits the National Federation of the Blind. 7 p.m. $12 in advance, $10 at the door, Children 10 and under $5, 5 and under are free. Tillman’s Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Rd. Please visit http:// www.commediadelarte.org for more information. Blessing of the Fleet – Bayou La Batre Great 2 days of fun, food, children’s activities and much more in Bayou La Batre. 13790 South Wintzell Avenue, Bayou La Batre. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, please visit http:// www.fleetblessing.org. Lions Club Tunnel Vision 5K Run / Walk This run is a point-to-point 5K run that starts in downtown Mobile, in front of the Mobile Public Library and goes East through the Bankhead Tunnel, past the USS Alabama Battleship Park, and finishes at Tacky Jacks on the causeway. All proceeds go towards their sight programs that they fund each year. The race starts at 8 a.m. at the Mobile Public Library (700 Government Street). Please visit www.active.com for more information. St. Mary’s Catholic School Casino Night This annual fundraising event features live and silent auctions, games with local celebrity hosts, door prizes and great food and entertainment. General admission is $25 per adult in advance and $30 at the door. Seniors are $25. All proceeds benefit St. Mary Catholic School, 107 N. Lafayette Street. For more information, please call 251-433-9904. Art Fest in the Park at Dauphin Island Art Fest in the Park. 251-861-5524. dauphinislandcoc. com. Free. Cadillac Square Two-day juried art festival with music, food and fun. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Cadillac Square. Bart Starr Autograph Signing Come by and meet NFL Legendary Quarter Back Bart Starr at Gulf Coast Cards inside Bel Air Mall at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased over the phone by calling 251-470-9989 or online at: http://www.gccsm.com. 2 – 3 p.m. USA STEEL / World Music Ensemble Spring Concert 7:30 p.m. Luis Rivera, director. USA Laidlaw Performing Arts Center. $5 USA students. $8 General Admission. Info at www.southalabama.edu/music. May Extravaganza- Episcopal Church of the Redeemer Annual churchwide, indoor yardsale. pulled pork barbecue dinners ($8). Vendors, health care screening, bake sale. free parking. Cost: Free. Contacts: www. redeemerepiscopal.org or ckwitzky@mullinaxford.com. Episcopal Church of the Redeemer is located on the corner of Cody and Hitt Roads. Mobile. Mobile Botanical Gardens Marketplace Saturdays See April 20 for more information Gallery of Gardens 2013 See May 3 for more information. Annie See May 2 for more information.
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Sunday, May 5
USA Trumpet Department Student Recital 7:30 p.m. concert. USA Laidlaw Performing Arts Center. Free admission. Info at www.southalabama.edu/ music. Art Fest in the Park at Dauphin Island See May 4 for more information. Annie See May 2 for more information. Blessing of the Fleet – Bayou La Batre See May 4 for more information.
Monday, May 6
Master Gardeners Lunch & Learn Series Butterfly Gardening – Presented by Alice Marty. Mobile County Extension Master Gardeners will host a Lunch &Learn Series on the first Monday of each month beginning in May, from 12-1 p.m. The classes are being taught in the Teaching & Demonstration Gardens of the Jon Archer Agricultural Center located at 1070 Schillinger Road North No pre-registration is required and no cost involved. Drinks will be provided by the Master Gardeners. For questions, please call 251-574-8445.
Tuesday, May 7
Adoption Rocks Banquet Please join us for wine and tapas in support of ADOPTION ROCKS where we are dedicated to positively changing the lives of women, children and families in Mobile and Baldwin Counties. The fundraiser will be held at Legacy Bar and Grill (9 Du Rhu Dr., Mobile) from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tickets are $50. Reservations – www.adoptionrocks.net (payment by paypal) or by mail Adoption Rocks P.O. Box 82232 Mobile, Alabama 36689.
Wednesday, May 8
Learning Lunch: The University of South Alabama at Fifty By Jennifer Z Ekman (University of South Alabama). Learning Lunch. Bring lunch; complimentary beverages provided. 12 Noon. History Museum of Mobile (111 S Royal St.). Contact: 251-208-7569/ www.museumofmobile.com. Brown Bag in Bienville Square See April 24 for more information.
Thursday, May 9
Naoko, the Marimba, and the MSYO at the Saenger Presented by the Mobile Symphony Youth Orchestra, under the direction of Robert J. Seebacher. 7:30 p.m. in the Saenger Theatre. For more information, please visit http://www.mobilesymphony.org.
Friday, May 10
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Conceived by Rebecca Feldman with music and lyrics by William Finn, a book by Rachel Sheinkin and additional material by Jay Reiss. This musical comedy features six quirky adolescent spellers and the three equally quirky adults who run it. The fictional spelling bee is set in a geographically ambiguous Putnam Valley Middle School. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee won two Tony Awards including Best Book of a Musical. 8 p.m. Mobile Theatre Guild (14 N Lafayette St.) General/ $20; senior citizens, military & students/ $16 Contact: www.mobiletheatreguild.org. LODA Artwalk Exhibitions (with receptions) and entertainment in a variety of downtown galleries and other venues. City of Mobile Neighborhood and Community Services. Second Fri., 6 - 9 p.m. LoDa Arts District (LOwer DAuphin St.). Check NCS website for complete list of activities/map after noon the day of the event. 251-208-1550/ www.ncsmobile.org.
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Saturday, May 11
Dash and Splash Duathlon 5K Race and 50 Yard Swim This race takes place at 5 p.m. and includes a 5K race and a 50 yard swim. The location is Springhill Swim Club (736 Museum Dr.) and benefits CMSA programs. For more information, please visit http://www.productionsbylittleredhen.com. Mobile Symphony: Preservation Hall Jazz Band Conductor: Scott Speck. 8 p.m. Also Sun., 2:30 p.m. Saenger Theatre (6 S. Joachim St.). $15 - $55. 251-4322010/ www.mobilesymphony.org. Stamp Out Hunger Join the National Association of Letter Carriers, Bay Area Food Bank, United Way of Southwest Alabama, and the AFL-CIO, for Stamp Out Hunger – the nation’s largest annual single-day food drive. To participate, place nonperishable food items in the bag left by your letter carrier beside your mailbox on the morning of May 11 before the carrier arrives. The bag will be picked up by your letter carrier and taken to Bay Area Food Bank where volunteers will unload and sort the donated items. Anyone who does not receive a bag in the mail can deliver their donated food items directly to the food bank or their local post office. To learn more about the food drive and see list of the most need items, visit www.bayareafoodbank.org. Pet Portraits to Benefit Save A Stray 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at B&B Pet Stop, Mobile. A $25 donation to Save a Stray gets you a 30 minute photo session. Plus 8x10 portrait from pose of your choice. 100% of your donation goes to Save A Stray (www. saveastray.org). To make an appointment, please call B&B Pet Stop at 661-3474. Mobile Botanical Gardens Marketplace Saturdays See April 20 for more information The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee See May 10 for more information.
Sunday, May 12
Katya Grineva Piano Benefit Concert and Reception Ms. Katya Grineva is the first female solo pianist to grace the stage of Carnegie Hall’s historic Isaac Stern auditorium a record twelve times. Please join us for a piano concert and reception at the Visitation Monastery Sacred Heart Chapel, 2300 Spring Hill Avenue, Mobile. Concert is from 7 - 8:30 p.m. CD signing and hors d’oeuvres reception to follow. Suggested donation is $35. Tickets available at Bangkok Thai, 3821 Airport Blvd. 251-344-9995. Mother’s Day Concert 2013 5:30 p.m. Supper, an entire orchestra, and ice cream make this Mother’s Day special at Bellingrath Gardens. Bellingrath Gardens and Home is happy to welcome The Mobile Symphony Youth Orchestra and their conductor Rob Seebacher for the annual Mother’s Day Concert. This year’s concert will be held on Live Oak Plaza between the Bellingrath Home and the Boehm Gallery. Enjoy the Gardens and Home throughout the afternoon and then gather for the late afternoon concert. The free concert is included in your admission to Bellingrath Gardens. Beginning at 4:00 p.m. on Mother’s Day, admission will be reduced to $6 for adults and $3 for children ages 5-12. Children under the age of 5 are always admitted free. This is the perfect way to conclude your Mother’s special day. For more information about the complete menu selection and to make your table or dinner reservation, please call Bellingrath Gardens and Home at 973-2217 ext 110. For more information about the Mobile Youth Symphony Orchestra, visit www.mobilesymphony.org/ youth-orchestra. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee See May 10 for more information. Mobile Symphony: Preservation Hall Jazz Band See May 11 for more information.
Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
Family Calendar Monday, May 13
Auditions for Shrek-The Musical at Playhouse in the Park 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. at the Playhouse. Those auditioning should be prepared to sing a 30-second song and possibly read from a provided script. Shrek - the Musical tells the story of a swamp-dwelling ogre who goes on a life-changing adventure to reclaim the deed to his land. Joined by a wise-cracking donkey, this unlikely hero fights a fearsome dragon, rescues a feisty princess and learns that real friendship and true love aren’t only found in fairy tales. 4851 Museum Dr., Mobile. For more information, please call 251-602-0630 or visit www.playhouseinthepark.org. LPGA RTJ Golf Trail at Magnolia Grove / Crossings Course / Mobile. For more information, please visit www. mobilebaylpgaclassic.com.
Tuesday, May 14
Goodwill Easter Seals Night at the Hank Bring a bag of donated clothing or shoes to receive free admission to the Mobile Bay Bears vs.Jacksonville Suns at 7:05 at Hank Aaron Stadium in Mobile. LPGA See May 13 for more information.
Wednesday, May 15
Family Promise of Coastal Alabama 10th Anniversary Luncheon Enjoy a southern, spring lunch on the grounds of the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion served alongside the Azalea Trail Maids. Listen to National Family Promise Founder, Karen Olson, on how ONE person can make a difference in your community. Raise a glass and join
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us as we celebrate helping homeless families in Mobile for 10 years. Together we can end homelessness, one family at a time. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Bragg-Mitchell Mansion, 1906 Springhill Avenue, Mobile. Tickets: $40 per person. For more information, please visit http:// www.familypromisemobile.org/10anniversary/index. html or call: 251-441-1991. Auditions for Shrek-The Musical at Playhouse in the Park See May 13 for more information. Brown Bag in Bienville Square See April 24 for more information. LPGA See May 13 for more information.
Thursday, May 16
An Evening in History Historic Mobile Preservation Society’s monthly educational program, An Evening In History will feature Ben Cummings, architect and project manager for The Cook’s House Restoration Project at Oakleigh. Cummings will discuss the project and conduct a ‘hammer and nails’ tour of The Cook’s House. 5:457:00 p.m. For more information, please visit http:// www.historicmobile.org. LPGA See May 13 for more information.
Friday, May 17
Quilts of the Gulf Coast The 19th Biennial Quilt Show presented by Azalea City Quilters’ Guild, Inc., will showcase over 300 quilts and wall hangings. Come see how the art of quilting has evolved. There will be special exhibits, vendors, a Unique Boutique, demonstrations and a close up view of Mobile Bay. Our Opportunity Quilt “Sunrise over
Mobile Bay” will be awarded at the close of the show on Saturday. Come and bring the family! Friday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m./ Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Cost-Adults $6, Children $2, Children under 6 are free. Location Mobile Alabama Cruise Terminal, 201 S. Water St. Camelot King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table and the noble vision of Camelot come to life in this 1960 musical that captured four Tony awards. The highest ideals come almost within grasp before they are undone by human failings in this age-old tale. A record of the show’s music was a bestseller for more than a year. Chickasaw Civic Theatre is located at 801 Iroquois Street, Chickasaw, AL. Don’t miss this reprise of one of CCT’s all-time favorite shows. Please visit http://cctshows.com/ for more information. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee See May 10 for more information. LPGA See May 13 for more information.
Saturday, May 18
2nd Annual Buckaroo Foundation BBQ Plate Fundraiser and Raffle 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Whitehouse Fork Volunteer Fire Station, 11104 Whitehouse Fork Road Ext Bay Minette. Plates are $8 and will include: BBQ Pork from Cherry St. BBQ in Monroeville, Sauce & Bun, Cole slaw, & Baked beans. Buckaroo Foundation Raffle Tickets are $3, or 4 for $10. First prize: a cabin in the Smokey Mtns. for a 4-day, 3-night stay (M-Th). 2nd prize: iPad 2 16 GB. 3rd prize: $150 cash. You do not have to be present to win. We will also have Face Painting, a Bake Sale, and more! http://www.buckaroofoundation.org/ events.html.
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Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Great Strides Walk Great Strides is the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s largest fund-raising event. It provides opportunities for all people within a local community to get involved forming teams through their workplace, clubs and organizations or with friends and family. Walk day is a fun, family-oriented celebration that includes a healthy 3 mile walk, Kids’ Corner activities, food, and festivities that participants look forward to year after year. Location: Five Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Mobile Bay Causeway. Registration – 8 a.m., Walk Start – 9 a.m. http://www.cff.org/great_strides/ For more information contact: Tiffany Miller, Development Director, 251-436-0015 or email at tmiller@cff.org Requiem By Louis F Daniel Debut performance by Gloria Dei Chorale of this work by its director for choir, 3 soloists (soprano Megan King, tenor Marshall Richards, and baritone Graham Anduri), organ, and orchestra, written in memory of Daniel’s father, a decorated WWII veteran. 7:30 p.m. Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (2 S. Claiborne St.) .Donations at the door will go to Disabled American Veterans. 251-533-9810/ www. gloriadeichorale.org. Mobile Botanical Gardens Marketplace Saturdays See April 20 for more information. Quilts of the Gulf Coast See May 17 for more information. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee See May 10 for more information. Camelot See May 17 for more information. LPGA See May 13 for more information.
Sunday, May 19
The Original Tale of Peter Pan (encore) Commedia del Arte, Partnered with The Mobile County Community Activities Acting Class, Presents The Original Tale of Peter Pan. Davidson High School Lecture Hall, 4:30 p.m. Admission: $10 in advance, $12 at the door, Children 10 and under $5, Children five and under admitted free. Benefits The National Federation of the Blind. For more information and tickets, visit www.commediadelarte.org, or call 251510-0654. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee See May 10 for more information. Camelot See May 17 for more information LPGA See May 13 for more information
Monday, May 20
Mobile Pops Concert Mobile Pops Band Concert –7 p.m. Mobile Medal of Honor Park Pavilion (located on Knollwood Drive but entrance on Hillcrest Road). Free admission. For more information, please visit www.mobilepopsband.com.
Wednesday, May 22 Brown Bag in Bienville Square See April 24 for more information.
Friday, May 24
Camelot See May 17 for more information.
Saturday, May 25
Children’s Botanical Art Class – Mobile Botanical Gardens Children’s Botanical Collagraphy, from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m., Artist in Residence Val Webb shows children ages 5-12 how to make botanical art using natural
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elements and an etching press. $5/child. Advance registration is required for all programs. Visit www. mobilebotanicalgardens.org to register and to see the complete calendar of events. You may also register by calling 251-342-0555 Monday –Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mobile Botanical Gardens Marketplace Saturdays See April 20 for more information. Camelot See May 17 for more information.
Sunday, May 26 Camelot See May 17 for more information.
Wednesday, May 29 Brown Bag in Bienville Square See April 24 for more information.
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Looking Ahead...
June 1. Grandman Triathlon. Beginning at the Fairhope Pier, and along the beautiful streets of Fairhope and Mobile Bay, this exciting event is a promotion of healthy lifestyle and community. Join us for the Springhill Medical Center Grandman Triathlon to benefit four amazing local non-profit organizations: Mobile Baykeeper, The Gulf Coast Area Triathletes, The Baldwin County Trailblazers and Camp Rap-A-Hope! Please visit http://thegrandman.com. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.
Please send your calendar events to lynn@mobilebayparents.com Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
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Scary Movie 5
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Time: 128 min. Overall: A Violence: B Sexual Content: C+ Language: C Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated 42 PG-13 for thematic elements including language. Director and screenwriter Brian Helgeland hits one out of the ballpark with his movie 42. The tale of legendary baseball player Jackie Robinson scores across the bases with strong messages and stellar performances by an impressive cast. While 42 isn’t suitable for all family members, the historical drama will play well to both baseball fans and general movie audiences. Veteran actor Harrison Ford stars as the pioneering, cigar-chomping general manager Branch Rickey who signs Robinson to the Brooklyn Dodgers. John C. McGinley portrays Red Barber, the team’s colorful commentator with a bat bag full of sporty colloquialisms. Both performers create convincing characters that are a far cry from Hans Solo or Dr. Perry Cox. But it is small screen actor Chadwick Boseman that rockets this script into orbit like a squarely hit pitch. Without the distraction of other big theater roles on his resume, Boseman brings a fresh face to this sound depiction of the famous rookie. Following the details of the true story, the trail-blazing Branch questions the Major League Baseball’s color barrier during a shameful period when African American soldiers returned from fighting in World War II only to face racial discrimination and Jim Crowe laws at home. Luckily for Robinson, the audacious executive is willing to challenge this prejudice on the ball diamond. While capturing the virulent hostility Jackie faces on the field, the movie also shows the support he receives from his wife Rachel (Nicole Beharie), African American sportswriter Wendell Smith (Andre Holland) and teammates Eddie Stanky (Jesse Luken) and Pee Wee Reese (Lucas Black). The script includes a deluge of racial slurs, infrequent profanities and a tirade of offensive sexual comments along with racial discrimination. Bullying and an adulterous relationship also rack up errors against this film’s content. However for older teens and adults, number 42’s journey to the big league is more impressive than even his stats. Credited with helping to spark the civil rights movement, his stance against racial barriers continues to serve as an example today. Choosing to deal with his agonies in private, his gentleman demeanor and unwavering love of the game in public inspires even his Dodger teammates to face their prejudices and become a real team. In a current era where various sports leagues are confronted with labor disputes, bloated egos and performance-enhancing drugs, Jackie Robinson remains a role model to young players ready to pick up the bat and play ball.
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: D Violence: D Sexual Content: D Language: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: D The MPAA has rated Scary Movie 5 PG-13 for crude and sexual content throughout, language, some drug material, partial nudity, comic violence and gore. Seven years after its last installment, the Scary Movie franchise is back with a new offering, Scary Movie 5. The blonde female lead is played by Ashley Tisdale who may be best know for her recurring role in the TV series The Suite Life of Zack and Cody or the High School Musical movies. Like the spoofs Date Movie and Epic Movie that take stabs at romantic comedies and Hollywood hits, the Scary Movie films purport to parody horror films. But what Scary Movie 5 ends up being is little more than an excuse for disgusting depictions of bathroom humor, the comedic portrayal of illegal drug use and ongoing crude sexual content (including Charlie Sheen and Lindsay Lohan wrestling under the sheets, a lesbian encounter involving food items and a vacuum cleaner used as a sexual stimulator for an animal). Parodies, at least clever ones, require intelligent writing and creative use of the original content. Neither of these is apparent in this script that involves flying excrement and a baby with his head on fire. A spoof also needs audiences to be acquainted with the material it is lampooning. As neither Mama or Evil Dead have released to home video yet, it is likely fewer viewers may be familiar with the story lines that dominate this script. While the first two films in the franchise earned R-ratings, the next three have all made it under the PG-13 wire, giving even more young audience members access to them without parental approval. But after setting through 89 painful minutes of crude, lowbrow jokes, one has to wonder what perverse messages these films send to teens about sexuality, relationships and quality humor. And why a new generation of young people will line up at the box office and pay to see them.
What Parents need to know about Scary Movie 5...
Violence: A woman unintentionally smashes a baby’s head against the wall. Later the baby’s head catches fire. Characters point guns at one another. A child pushes a popsicle stick up her rectum. A child uses water-boarding tactics on her doll. A character rips a chicken’s head off and the blood sprays around a room. A character is hit in the head with a heavy pan and electrocuted. He falls from a window and chokes on a small item. A man is hit and run over by a car. A man is run over by a lawn mower. Apes escape and attack people in the street. Blood spews as characters cut off their own arms and legs with a saw. A character slices her tongue in half. A shark attacks a person. Sexual Content: A character prepares to make a sex tape. Frequent jokes about male anatomy, sexual stimulation, lesbian sexual activity and sexual movements are used throughout the film. Crude comments are made about sex acts. A character urinates on her phone while taking a home pregnancy test. Pole dancing and other suggestive dance moves are shown. A man’s bare buttocks are shown. Incest is implied. A character’s crotch catches fire. Crass depictions of fondling are shown along with exaggerated portrayals of female anatomy. Characters visit porn sites. Language: The script includes one use of a sexual expletive, frequent mild and moderate profanities, racial slurs and pervasive crude sexual language. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters talk about being “stoners.” Women are high after taking pills at a club. Characters snort drugs.
What Parents need to know about 42…
Violence: Black characters are bullied and discriminated against throughout the film. A man is intentionally hit in the head with a baseball bat and slashed on the leg with cleats. Characters receive threatening letters and hate mail. A group of men’s verbal argument escalates into pushing and shoving. Sexual Content: A couple, engaged in an adulterous relationship, is shown in bed together. A man makes crude and offensive comments about sexual activity to another character. Brief kissing and embracing are portrayed along with brief and mild sexual references. Language: The script includes numerous racial slurs in a historical setting, as well as scatological slang, terms of deity and mild and moderate profanities. Alcohol / Drug Use: A character is frequently shown smoking a cigar. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2013
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