Mobile Bay Parents May 2014 by KeepSharing

May2014 34

Volume 4 Number 1

36 Columns

Mom of the Month 4

Living With Children John Rosemond

Small Person... Big Changes

Discover tools for encouraging children through a new sibling transition.

New & Expectant Parents Guide

Kids Health Watch sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Our listing leads you to local resources for all things BABY!

Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Hello Baby, Goodbye, Sleep!

Find tips for helping your little one “sleep like a baby”.

Summer VBS Listing

Mobile offers a variety of Vacation Bible School opportunities during summer break. Register your child for one or more!

The FlyLady Marla Cilley

Departments On The Cover

Hadassah (Haddie) Smith,

daughter of Sarah and Jordan Smith, and little sister to Savannah Smith. Proud grandparents are Aaron and Robbie Smith and Sid and Janine Phillips.

Bits and Pieces School Bits 50

46 Calendar 56

Movie Reviews

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MomOfTheMonth I hate to admit it, but the ignorant bliss I had during those nine months prior to my first baby born were, well, blissful. I would watch other moms with their little ones and they looked so happy. All I could do was imagine what it might be like at their homes and maybe one day in mine. Since I was planning on being a stay-at-home mom, I would imagine that after a great night’s sleep, I would wake up in the morning and eat a hot breakfast, then play with my baby, and then have ample time to do chores. And, yes, have a hot meal ready for my husband when he got home from a long day at work. Then you bring your sweet little bundle of joy home. Life as you know it has ended and reality of your new life has begun to set in. I remember calling my sister crying because all I had been able to do that day was wash one dish. And she, being a mom of three, said, “Well done!” Thank God for the overwhelming love you have for your baby that gives you that extra motivation just to make it through those first hours, days, weeks, and even months. My mother-in-law has said this at almost every baby shower, including my own, “These are the longest days and shortest years.” That really didn’t sink in until I found myself repeating it in the early hours of the morning trying to get my little one to sleep for the sixth time that night. And I have repeated that countless times since. These days sure seem long, but the years do fly by! In this month’s article, Hello, Baby...Goodbye, Sleep you’ll find great tips and information about your sleeping baby or the lack thereof. Honestly, the most shocking thing I experienced with my first baby was the sleep deprivation! If baby isn’t sleeping, neither are you! And you must have sleep to function. What I did differently with my second child, which I wish I had done with my first, was start the independent sleeping right away! With your first, at least mine anyway, I couldn’t even think about putting her down to sleep wide awake. With every little whimper I would run to her rescue, if I wasn’t already holding her. Just now, at two and a half years old, she is finally going to sleep on her own. My second is 10 months old and already falls asleep on her own. Glory! In Kelly Bartlett’s article, Small Person...Big Changes, I totally agree that the best gift for your first child during the new sibling transition is TIME. Suddenly all your attention is no longer just theirs. They need that one on one time with you, just as you had before their sibling arrived. They need to know you still have time for them. I try to set aside a time with just my oldest when her sister is napping, and then make sure all three of us have play time. Even if there are a thousand chores to be done I have to set those aside. Chores will always be there, but your babies will not stay babies. Also, I ask for her help with anything I know she can do for me or the baby. She loves playing the big sister. It is good for them and for you! Of course, as time goes by, you learn, adjust, and begin to have a routine...and things get easier. I love my full time job and wouldn’t trade it for the world! Finally, make sure to check out our New & Expectant Parents Guide for all things baby in the Mobile Bay area. Whether you are looking for an OB/GYN, pediatrician, nursery decor or preparation classes to get you ready for that new addition, our guide will tell you where to go!

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

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Mobile Bay Mobile Bay’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 Contributing Writers Jennifer Adair, M.D. Kelly Bartlett Marla Cilley Malia Jacobson Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Sarah Smith Cover Photography Oracle Imaging & Design www.oracle-weddings.com

President Jason Watson Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall Danielle Nicholas ads@mobilebayparents.com (251) 304-1200 Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us at www.mobilebayparents.com Mobile Bay Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 81105, Mobile, Alabama, 36689. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 304-1200. Mobile Bay Parents is copyrighted 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.

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Establish Good Eating Habits at a Young Age Q: Our son is two-and-one-half and for the most part eats very well. We make up his plate for each meal and he has to eat what is on his plate, or at least try each food on the plate before he can get more of something that he really likes. We also make sure that he remains seated during the entire meal. Sometimes he will request fruit before he is finished with his dinner. We tell him he first has to finish what’s on his plate. Should we be forcing him to eat his main meal before being able to have fruit or a cookie?

A: It sounds like he’s doing reasonably to very well as things now stand, which means you’re doing a good job of helping him establish good, pro-social eating habits. You’re obviously not allowing him to dictate what he eats, which is what produces the so-called “picky eater”—really nothing more than a

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

child who has been given power over food choices. Someone recently asked me what the harm is of giving a toddler food he likes and will readily eat at mealtimes. My answer was that a young child is no more capable of making good choices about food than he is of making a good choice of playthings. Given the choice in either category, a child will choose based on what appeals to his tongue or his eyes. As such, he will choose junk, which is why so many of today’s kids (where food is concerned) are overweight and have health issues related to their diets and (where playthings are concerned) have great difficulty entertaining themselves. Simply put, if children made good choices, parents would be unnecessary. It is also good manners to eat what you are served, especially if you are a guest at someone else’s table. Turning up one’s nose at a certain food is insulting to

the person who took time to prepare it. My wife and I used to tell our kids that they had to eat what was on their plates because they were in training to be good guests in other people’s homes. The only exception to that, of course, is when the child has a food allergy, in which case the host should be informed in advance. “I don’t like it” was not an acceptable excuse at our table. We told our kids that they could eat what they chose when they were old enough to prepare their own meals. Before they had turned double-digits, they were eating sushi. It is not “forcing” to use your son’s fondness for fruit as incentive to eat what you serve as his main meal. It’s obviously time to tell him about the Universal, Intergalactic Rule of Fruit: Fruit is what we eat when we’ve finished what’s on our plate. Or, as Pink Floyd put it, “If you don’t eat yer meat, you can’t have any pudding!” (If you’re familiar with the song “Another Brick in the Wall,” you know that’s as far as the analogy extends.) Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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Environmental Studies Center Spring Open House

Join us Saturday, May 3 for our Spring Open house from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at 6101 Girby Road. Bring your family out to the 500 acre property that is the Mobile County School System’s Environmental Studies Center. Free Admission. Enjoy a day of walking trails, native wildlife exhibits, animal presentations, planetarium shows, food, and fun. All proceeds from concessions and all donations go to wildlife care. Parking at Burns Middle School. 251-221-5000.

Hog Wild Backyard BBQ

Located in downtown Mobile at Royal and Church Streets, United Cerebral Palsy's Hog Wild Backyard BBQ will be held Saturday, May 17, and Sunday, May 18. The event will host over 40 amateur barbecue teams from Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi. Teams compete in chicken, pork, ribs and sauce categories. On Saturday, festival-goers have the opportunity to taste free barbecue samples (while supplies last) from these teams during the People's Choice Contest in the City of Mobile Backyard. There will be a lot of fun activities for kids and adults! With your paid admission to the festival, you will have access to see the sights at the Museum of Mobile and Fort Conde! Proceeds from the Hog Wild Festival benefit United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile. The agency offers services that begin in infancy and continue through adulthood. Programs offered in central and south Alabama include: Early Intervention, Preschool, Supported Employment, Adult Day Program, Camp SMILE, and more. To register a team or other information visit www. bbqmobile.net or Facebook- HogWildBackyardBBQ or email events@ucpmobile.org.

65th Annual Blessing of the Fleet

The 65th Annual Blessing of the Fleet is Saturday, May 4 and Sunday, May 5 at St. Margaret Catholic Church (13790 South Wintzell Avenue, Bayou La Batre) from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on both days. Festival Admission is free. This event will include a wide selection of family friendly activities throughout the weekend including train rides, Bayou Boat Tours, Arts & Crafts, a 4- and 1- mile run on Saturday morning, Gumbo Cook-off, Parade, Music and entertainment and more. Please visit www.fleetblessing.org for more information.

Sunny Side Theater and The Studio Present "The Little Mermaid, Jr."

Starring over 100 of Mobile's finest young actors and actresses, Sunny Side and The Studio Present “The Little Mermaid”. Follow the beloved story of Ariel and her quest to be a human as she encounters Ursula. Join Flounder, Sebastian, Scuttle and all of your other favorite characters on this musical journey Under The Sea! Show times are Thursday, May 1 at 6:30, May 2 at 6:30, May 3 at 2 p.m. and 6:30 and May 4 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for students, and $5 for kids 12 and under. Special school shows are Thursday & Friday at 9 and 11. For more information or to reserve your seats today, call Owner/Director Chris Paragone at 251-510-1808 or email him at dramacamp@mindspring.com. Performances will take place at the Moorer Center for Performing Arts on the St. Luke's Upper School campus at 1400 University Boulevard.

Walk to Defeat ALS

More than just a few-mile trek, the Walk to Defeat ALS is an opportunity to bring hope to people living with ALS, to raise money for a cure, and to come together for something you care about. The Walk to Defeat ALS is The ALS Association’s biggest annual event, which raises funds that allow our local chapters to sustain care services and support research for much of the next year. The Mobile Walk is Saturday, May 3. Check in is at 9 a.m. and the walk starts at 10 a.m. at the Hank Aaron Stadium. Please visit http://webal.alsa.org/site/TR/Walks/Alabama?fr_ id=9720&pg=entry#.U0QyOhMo7tR to sign up or for more information. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

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The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast Presents “Exceptional Arts”

The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf is pleased to announce their third annual Exceptional Arts event. Exceptional Arts will feature our exceptional member’s collaborations with well-known local artists. A few of our featured artists are: Bruce Larsen, Jean McKee, Provie Musso, Leigh Copeland, Judy Oxford, Jo Patton, Tina Powers, Baba Hendricks, B’Beth Weldon, Marilyn Ammons, Liz Philbrick, Gigi Hackford, Ardith Goodwin, Sharon Stephens, Kathy Lambert, Betsy Adams, Ron Thomson and Kathy Lambert, and Rick Hurst. Exceptional Arts is a fantastic opportunity for you to meet and mingle with the members of the Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast. The participants eagerly await the community to visit what they call “The Happy Place”. The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast, is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, where physically and developmentally challenged adults enjoy daily programs which include arts, crafts, team sports, exercise classes, social events, and music. Exceptional Arts will be held at the St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Life Center, on Thursday, May 29. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy beer, wine & food tastings from local restaurants, while bidding on extraordinary silent auction items and listening to the sounds of “Grits N Pieces”, a favorite duo of so many along the Gulf Coast. Later in the evening the main event, the Art Live Auction will take place – always a fun and exciting time! All guests are guaranteed a memorable evening of spectacular arts surrounded by pure joy and excitement! Tickets are $20 in advance and are available for purchase at The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast located at 28788 North Main St. Daphne, AL 36526. Tickets at the door will be $25. For more information on The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast or Exceptional Arts, please visit exceptionalfoundationgc.org or call (251) 625.8955.

Mobile Heart Ball is “Relaxin’ on the River”

The American Heart Association will host the Mobile Heart Ball on Thursday, May 8 at Delta Hall. Jan Greer Endfinger serves as the 2014 chair of the event. The event, which begins at 6 p.m., will generate funds to support research, education, and awareness to prevent heart disease and stroke in the Mobile area. The Mobile Heart Ball will feature live music from Tribute. Guests will bid on silent auction from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Guests will enjoy the evening --Relaxin’ and Dancin’ on the River! Honorees for the evening include Jeff St. Clair, CEO of Springhill Medical Center; Dr. Lynn Batten, Pediatric Cardiologist; and two-year old heart disease survivor, Robert Faulkner. The event will generate more than $70,000 for the American Heart Association with more than 300 attendees expected this year. The sponsors of the 2014 Mobile Heart Ball include Greer’s Market, Trustmark, WKRG-TV, Armbrecht Jackson, Pro Assurance, and Internal Medicine Center LLC. Tickets for the event start at $100. For more information, call the American Heart Association at 228-604-5316.

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Wales West Great Train Robbery Set for Saturdays in May

All aboard! Wales West Light Railway is pleased to announce the 2014 Great Train Robbery, Saturdays from May 3rd through May 24th, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ride a real steam train to the Beaver Gulch Barn, where the famous Saloon, Bank, and Jail are located. Be on guard for the Beaver Gulch Gang, notorious for robbing the Wales West payroll train. New this year, passengers can surrender their loot to the Furrever Homes dedicated train robber to benefit the non-profit animal rescue. Fortunately the Beaver Gulch Sheriff is on hand to help the passengers in convicting the Train Robbers. Passengers enjoy refreshments, free sheriff’s hat and badge, and miniature train ride. Slight fee for the Café, Petting Zoo, Pony Ride, and Outlaw Blaster. Admission is $15 per person, plus tax; 2 and under, free. Located on Co. Rd. 9, outside Fairhope, at 13670 Smiley St, Silverhill. www.waleswest.com 1-888-569-5337 or 251-232-2322.

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Great Strides Walk for Cystic Fibrosis

Great Strides provides a great opportunity for people within the community to get involved in a great cause. Participants can form walk teams at their workplace, through their clubs and organizations, or with friends and family. Walk day is a fun, family-oriented event with a healthy 5k walk, children's activities, food, and festivities that participants look forward to year after year. Join us on May 17 at the University of South Alabama Track at 9:00 a.m. (Check in at 8:00 a.m.). For more information, please visit http://fightcf.cff.org/site/TR?pg=entry&fr_ id=1934.

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Cocktails with Critters

Cocktails with Critters, the major fundraiser for the Dauphin Island Sea Lab Foundation, will be Thursday, May 1, from 6:00 p.m. til 9:00 p.m. at the Bluegill Restaurant on the Causeway. This will be an exciting evening overlooking Mobile Bay. Entertainment will be provided by the lively inspired sounds of Delta Reign. For those seeking more thrills, there will be a fantastic silent auction. The Bluegill Restaurant is pulling out all the stops and will be serving fabulous and tasty hors d’oeuvres along with wine and beer. A cash bar will also be available. Tickets: $50 in advance by check or $51 with credit card or paypal. $55 at the door. Individual tickets are available from the Foundation office, by calling 251-605-6624 or online (sealabfoundation.org).

2014 Gallery of Gardens Tour Showcases Mobile’s Private Gardens

Explore eight local private gardens and discover new ideas for your own May 2-3 at this year’s Gallery of Gardens tour! Experience a range of styles as you tour homes in Spring Hill, Oakleigh Garden District, Midtown and West Mobile. As you visit each garden, look for 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. New for 2014: two of our gardens will feature flora and fauna – ballet students will perform in outdoor garden “rooms” as visitors pass through. List of Tour Homes: 1059 Palmetto St., 1815 Clearmont St., 1901 Old Shell Rd., 110 Westwood St., 6512 Charingwood Dr., 2525 Colonnades Dr. W., 1605 Government St., 524 Ridgelawn Dr. W. Tour and MarketPlace hours are 9 a.m. to 4 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 below. Group rates are available to groups of ten or more. For more information call (251) 342-0555 or visit www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

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The Color Dash

The Hearin-Chandler Family YMCA serves the greater Mobile, Alabama community. The proceeds from this community event will be used to afford those less fortunate in our community, the opportunity to receive scholarships for membership, swimming lessons, summer camp, sports and more at the YMCA. The Color Dash takes place on May 31, at 951 Downtowner Blvd. Packet pickup: 7a.m./Dash begins at 9 a.m. Please visit www.thecolordash5k.com/Mobile%20AL. html to register or for more information.

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Come join us for Tunnel Vision 5K on Saturday, May 3 at 8:00 a.m. The race starts in downtown Mobile at the Mobile Public Library on Government Street and finishes at Tacky Jacks on the Causeway. Participants are asked to park at Battleship Park on the Causeway. Shuttle buses will be available to take participants from Battleship Park to the start and from Tacky Jacks to Battleship Park after the event. Shuttles will start leaving Battleship Park at 6 a.m. The proceeds from the Tunnel Vision 5K will benefit the sight programs of the Lions Club of Mobile. For registration information, please visit tunnelvisionrun.org. 9

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Mobile Girl Scout Earns Highest Award

Ann Claire Carnahan has always had a passion for conservation of the environment. Volunteering with Keep Mobile Beautiful, a local environmental not-for-profit organization, led her to creating a project for her Gold Award, the highest award earned in Girl Scouts. Open only to girls in high school, this “take action” project challenges girls to change the world through a seven-step process: Identify an issue; investigate thoroughly; get help and build your team; create a plan; present your plan and gather feedback; take action; and educate and inspire. After brainstorming with Keep Mobile Beautiful, Carnahan saw a need to create a website for the organization. Carnahan admits she was intimidated in the beginning because she had never built a website from the ground up before. “As soon as I started finding useful research and awesome contacts for volunteers who were eager to help, I gained confidence and became more excited and less intimidated to work toward completing my Gold Award project,” she said. Ann Claire Carnahan is now a part of an elite group of women who have also earned their Girl Scout Gold Award. Since 1916, the best and brightest Girl Scouts have undertaken projects that improve their communities and the world. The Gold Award has inspired girls to find the greatness inside themselves and share their ideas and passions with their communities. Elizabeth Brent, CEO for Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama, said, ”We are very proud of Ann Claire for keeping focused and using different resources to complete her Gold Award project. By earning this prestigious award and using her lifetime of Girl Scouting skills, she has made a difference within her community.” Carnahan hopes the website will enable a two-way easy avenue of communication between Keep Mobile Beautiful and the community to further improve recycling, beautification, and litter prevention throughout the city.

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“Cats” - Chickasaw Civic Theatre

What better way to close our 50th season than a reprise of “Cats”? The familiar junkyard will take over the stage as black cats, white cats, young cats, old cats, beautiful cats, dandified cats, acrobat cats and even a theatre cat convene to pick the one of their number who will be rewarded with another life. The second longest running show on Broadway, a showpiece of Andrew Lloyd Webber music and fun, “Cats” features the classic ballad “Memory.” Join us for this wonderful adventure on CCT’s Memory Lane. Show Dates: May 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, and 25. Curtain times: Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2:00 p.m. Address: 801 Iroquois St, Mobile. Tickets: $15; seniors (over 60), students, & active military $12. (cash and local checks). Please visit www.cctshows.com for more information.

History Museum of Mobile Receives National Accolades

The History Museum of Mobile recently received accolades from tripadvisor.com’s vacation rental site, The FlipKey Blog, as well as “Huffington Post.” The History Museum was included in the "50 States Series: Top Museums Worth Traveling For" on The FlipKey Blog. "We're very honored to be included in this list of museums," said David E. Alsobrook, Ph.D, director of the History Museum of Mobile. "This recognition is a tribute to the History Museum of Mobile's talented, dedicated staff, all of those who came before us and established this museum, the strong support of our Board and Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson and his staff, and our visitors." “I congratulate the History Museum on being named one of America’s ‘Top Museums Worth Traveling For.’” said Mayor Sandy Stimpson. “We appreciate tripAdvisor.com for recognizing something that most Mobilians have long known – that the museum is truly one of Mobile’s great treasures and a vital part of our downtown revitalization efforts.” This most recent accolade comes just one week after Huffington Post listed Fort Condé, which is operated by the History Museum of Mobile, as one of the “5 Free Activities In 'Secretly Awesome' Mobile, Ala.” The article said “the bayside town drips with Old South charm and has plenty of things to do, some of the best of which don't cost a dime.”

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Staying Safe in the Water This Summer We are fortunate to live in a wonderful, coastal city, but every once in a while it’s nice to travel to the beach or spend time around the pool to escape the summer humidity. Since drowning is still the second leading cause of death among children in the United States and the third leading cause of death worldwide, here are a few reminders of how to keep children of all ages safe when around water this summer: 1. Supervise children while they are in the water. This may sound obvious, but the fact is, many drowning accidents occur when several adults are present. It can be helpful for adults to take turns watching the children, or to name someone specifically to supervise the children if a parent needs to leave the area. You should also account for each child periodically since they often run in and out of the water. 2. Prevent children from sneaking out near the water when no one is around. If you have a pool at your home, it is best to have a four-sided fence around it. The fence should also have a door that opens outward instead of inward. If you have an iron fence

around the pool, the slits should not be large enough for a small child to slip through. Years ago, the general consensus was that it was enough to have the pool within the backyard fence. But there have been far too many instances of children opening the back door or going through a doggy door to the backyard and wading into the pool. 3. Every child and adult should wear a life jacket at all times when on a boat of any kind. Parents have many options for flotation devices. For swimming separate from boat rides, the safest flotation devices are the various body suit floats that support the torso. Arm band floats alone and body boards are helpful but are not sufficient by themselves. It is also important to remember that flotation devices are helpful, but do not replace the importance of adult supervision. 4. Consider swimming lessons for children. There have been many debates over the years about the efficacy and safety of swimming lessons at young ages (between 1-4 years old). Some think that starting swimming lessons at a young age gives parents a false sense of security. Others would argue that it is good to teach children basic swim-

ming techniques in case they were to fall in a pool. The American Academy of Pediatrics has not taken a stance on this, but I feel it is certainly safe to start swimming lessons after a child turns one year old. Of course, this should not be a substitution for all other precautions and the above safety recommendations should still be applied. 5. Safe habits shouldn’t stop when you head indoors. It’s worth mentioning that for young children, even bathtubs, buckets of water, and toilets have been the source of drowning accidents. So remember yearround to be careful with your children around any water, no matter the size or location. I hope you find the tips above helpful, and that everyone has a fun and safe summer! If you’re headed to the beach, remember to take the caution flags seriously, and whether on the sand or by the pool, always apply sunscreen.

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Jennifer Adair, M.D., was born and raised in Mobile. She graduated from Davidson High School in 2002 and received her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at The University of Alabama in 2006. She completed her medical training at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine, and pediatric residency at the University of Nevada College of Medicine – Las Vegas and the University of South Alabama. She joined Children’s Medical Group in July 2013 and currently practices at their Airport office. Jennifer and her husband, Cory, reside in Mobile with their dogs, Fitz and Barkley.

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Autauga County Schools

Author Watt Key Visits Causey Middle School

The author of the book, “Alabama Moon”, Watt Key, stopped by Causey Middle School's library March 25. He discussed what inspired him to write the book and about what it's like being a successful writer. The students and teachers were able to ask him questions about his current novels and those that are coming soon. They also had a chance to have some of their own copies of “Alabama Moon” signed by the author.

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Semmes Middle School Wins County History Fair

The history teachers at Semmes Middle School are so proud of the students who went on to win the History Fair for Mobile County. Caleb Andrus won 1st place for documentary, Destiny Harris, Brooklyn Johnson, and Lakyn Kyle won 2nd place for documentary. Carl Blakenship won 2nd place for exhibit. Elizabeth Franklin, Bailey Wall, Kaitlyn Parker, Lucy Durden, and Bailey Champion won 3rd place for performance.

Mobile Optimist Club Hosts Girls’ Oratorical Competition

On March 6, the Mobile Optimist Club hosted the Girls’ Oratorical Competition at the Admiral Semmes Hotel in downtown Mobile. Seven young ladies from Mobile area middle and high schools competed. The first place winner, receiving a gold medal and advancing to the next round of competition on March 20, was Michaela Hobson, junior at Mary G. Montgomery High School. The second place winner, receiving a silver medal, was Kellie Saldivar, senior at Mary G. Montgomery High School. The third place winner, receiving a bronze medal, was Haley Patteson, sophomore at Alma Bryant High School. Congratulations to these young ladies on a job well done. Pictured left to right – Michaela Hobson, Kellie Saldivar, Haley Patteson.

Mobile Optimist Club Recognizes Basketball Players of the Week

Pictured left to right: Murphy's Wyndell Johnson and Joe Smiley, along with B.C. Rain's Terrell Glover and Jalen Wilson, were honored as the Mobile Optimist Club's Basketball Players of the Week during the club's February 20 meeting.

Mary G. Montgomery Attends 2014 Young Author’s Conference

On Saturday, March 15th, Ms. King’s Advanced Placement English 12 class attended the annual 2014 Young Author’s Conference that contained its first Teen Writing Fair. Students were able to meet professional authors and writers. Several also had their works published! The Teen Writing Fair debuted the first teen literary magazine entitled “Both Sides of the Bay”. Ten Mary G. Montgomery students had pieces included in the magazine! They are: Garrett Colby, Summer Hill, Hannah Hill, Cullyn Mayes, Amanda Leverette, Christopher Wells, Aaron Salisbury, Lee Knapp, Abby Stephenson (junior), Nefeli Jay. This was a wonderful honor. This event took place at the West Regional Branch Public Library and was sponsored by the Metro Mobile Reading Council. Pictured back left to right: Aaron Salisbury, Garrett Colby, Lee Knapp; Front left to right: Nefeli Jay, Hannah Hill, Cullyn Mayes. 13

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Autauga County Schools 6th Graders Adopt In the UMS-Wright Name of Conservation

After reading the novel â&#x20AC;&#x153;The One and Only Ivanâ&#x20AC;? by Katherine Applegate, the 6th grade at UMS-Wright was enthralled by the story and inspired to help with the conservation and rescuing efforts for gorillas and elephants in the wild. They were able to raise $784 for The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund allowing them to adopt four elephants and three gorillas this year and the next two years! Each month the sixth grade class will receive updates on their animals and students will take turns reading the newsletter to his or her particular class. This project will follow these students throughout Middle School allowing them to see the full impact of their gift over several years. Pictured are 6th grade students and Mrs. Gordon along with pictures of their adopted animals.

Cottage Hill Christian Academy SGA Expresses Gratitude

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The Cottage Hill Christian Academy Student Government Association (SGA) served breakfast to first responders at the Tillman's Corner Community Center recently. CHCA is thankful for Mr. Bobby Murphy and his servant-leadership as he works with the SGA students as their faculty sponsor.

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Cottage Hill Christian Academy Invites You to “Light up the Hill”

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Warrior Club invites you to an evening of fun, food, and fellowship as we join together to "Light up the Hill". This silent auction event will be held Friday, May 2nd, 7 – 9 p.m. at Cottage Hill Baptist Church Atrium. Each ticket purchase enters you into a drawing for free tuition credit! Tickets are $15 and are available in the school office and at mkt.com/chca-warrior-club. All proceeds will benefit CHCA athletics. Tickets must be purchased in advance to be entered into the drawing for tuition credit.

St. Mary Catholic School Presents “A Silver Screen Spectacular!” on May 3

Celebrating 25 years, St. Mary Catholic School Casino Night presents, “A Silver Screen Spectacular!” on Saturday, May 3, from 6 p.m. until....This annual fundraising event features live and silent auctions, games with local celebrity hosts, door prizes and great food and entertainment! General admission: $25 per adult in advance & $30 at the door. Seniors, $25. Special Dinner tickets are $100 and admit two adults. All proceeds benefit St. Mary Catholic School. Wear your red carpet glamour attire for a toast to a quarter century of Casino Nights! Featuring the “Taste of Midtown” with Naman’s Caterer & other local favorites! Here is a sneak peak at some of this year's auction items: Braces, Jewelry, Georgia Mountain Villa stay, Beach Vacations, ART GALORE, Student Art, Boot Camps, Birthday Parties, A New Orleans weekend package, Spa Packages, Casino Getaways, and an adorable, must have yellow lab puppy …stay tuned, as the auction list is growing. The event will be held in the beautifully transformed school gymnasium. You will totally think you are at the Oscars, especially when you get to vote on the Oscar Movie winner of the year…Featured movie stars unveiled at event! 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, contact the St. Mary Catholic School office at 433-9904 or the Development Office at 432-8678, ext. 3, or visit www.stmarymobile.org!

The Early Learning Center at St. Luke’s Episcopal School offers 2 and 3 year old programs

designed to introduce your child to a nurturing learning environment filled with play-based activities including literacy, foreign language, music, science, art, and our exclusive iKids technology program. Learn more! Contact Hilary DeArmon at hdearmon@stlukesmobile.com or call 251-666-2991. Visit our website at stlukesmobile.com. Space is limited. Early Childhood & Lower School Campus 3975 Japonica Lane Mobile 36693

Middle and Upper School Campus 1400 University Blvd. S. Mobile 36609 15

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Autauga CountyCounty Schools Science Fair Clark-Shaw Hosts Mobile

Clark-Shaw Magnet School hosted the Mobile County Science Fair where 14 middle and high schools submitted 168 projects in 18 different categories. Then they were off to the Regional Science Fair at the University of South Alabama where Clark-Shaw Magnet students competed with other public and private schools from 10 other counties in the state. The following Clark-Shaw students placed at the Regional Science Fair and qualified to compete at Alabama State Competition April 3-5 in Huntsville. Botany: 1st Ryan Corob, 2nd Taylor Andry, 3rd Hannah Moses; Behavioral and Social Sciences: 3rd Karim Garcia; Earth/Space Science: 2nd Gordon Mills; Engineering: 1st Madeleine Forbes, 2nd Hannah Burckhartt, 3rd Justin Wilkerson; Environmental Science: 3rd Tate Boone; Math and Computer Science: 1st Antony Nguyen, 3rd Elizabeth Turner; Medicine and Health: 3rd Olivia Freeman; Chemistry: 1st Gabriella Taylor; Physics: 2nd Conor Barres, 3rd Matthew McElhenny; Zoology: 1st Brooklyn Massey, 2nd Jessica Towery; And this year they awarded two Best in Show awards... Clark-Shaw won both! Best in Show awards went to: Madeleine Forbes and Gabriella Taylor.

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Faulkner Career Tech Students Practice Parapro Duties at Local Elementary Schools

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Carrie B. Dozier, Instructor at Faulkner Career Technical Center, and students in the Early Childhood Education I Class “PM” group, takes a break after completing curriculum objective “Outside Activities for Infants and Toddlers.” The students practice mentoring and para-professional duties at Grant, Robbins, and Whitley Elementary schools.

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

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St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Episcopal School Recognizes National Youth Art Month

In February, several students at St. Paul's Episcopal School placed in the 2014 Regional Visual Arts and Achievement Competition. Their award-winning works were displayed at the Mobile Museum of Art through March 9 where all participants and winners were recognized. Art receiving first place honors at the District level will be displayed in the Alabama State Council on the Arts professional art gallery in Montgomery, April 1-25. All students who received a District Award will then be recognized at the State Awards Ceremony at the Alabama State Capitol building in Montgomery on April 25 at 1:00 p.m. MIDDLE SCHOOL DIVISION: Charlie Kraft - 1st Place (Printmaking). HIGH SCHOOL DIVISION: Marissa Donovan - 1st Place; Virginia Vichi-Miller - 2nd Place; Andie Goodwin - 3rd Place (Photography); Elizabeth Romanos - 1st Place (Computer Images); Caroline Myers 1st Place (Drawing); Kellsey Daggett - 1st Place; Roni Spann - 3rd Place (Mixed Media); Celeste Jones - 3rd Place (Painting); Callie Moss - 3rd Place (3D Craft). Additionally, St. Paul's students received awards in the 2014 Scholastic Art & Writing Competition. The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is run by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, Inc., a non-profit organization that supports young artists and writers. Each year, the awards provide the opportunity for more than 250,000 teenagers in grades 7-12 to earn regional and national honors. High school seniors who submit their portfolios have the opportunity to compete for more than $1.5 million in scholarships from colleges and universities across the country. Regional Gold Key winners in this competition will advance to compete at the national level. Isibeal Owens - Gold Key (Short Story), Honorable Mention (Poetry); Anna Alford - Honorable Mention (Painting); Taylor Bahos - Silver Key (Mixed Media), Honorable Mention (Ceramics); Abigail Lindsay Blankenship - Gold Key (Photography), Silver Key (Digital Art); Katy Bodet - Gold Key (Drawing), Silver Key (Mixed Media), Honorable Mention (Mixed Media); Kellsey Daggett - Gold Key (Mixed Media), Honorable Mention (Mixed Media); Andie Goodwin - Gold Key (Photography), Silver Key (Painting), Honorable Mention (Painting), Honorable Mention (Photography); Mary Hanlon Hale - Gold Key (Painting), Honorable Mention (Drawing); Celeste Jones - Gold Key (Mixed Media), Silver Key (Photography), Honorable Mention (Mixed Media); Rachel McCaslin - Gold Key (Painting), Honorable Mention (Mixed Media), Honorable Mention (Painting); Callie Moss - Honorable Mention (Mixed Media), Honorable Mention (Sculpture), Honorable Mention (Mixed Media); Rebecca Pober - Gold Key (Drawing), Honorable Mention (Painting), Honorable Mention (Drawing); Caroline Scott - Honorable Mention (Sculpture); Roni Spann - Gold Key (Mixed Media); Shelley Spires - Gold Key (Painting), Honorable Mention (Mixed Media); Katie Steadman - Honorable Mention (Photography); Danielle Williamson - Gold Key (Painting), Gold Key (Digital Art), Silver Key (Photography). Youth Art Month (YAM), sponsored by the Council for Art Education, Inc., is an annual observance each March to emphasize the value of art education for all children and to encourage support for quality school art programs. YAM provides a forum for acknowledging skills that are fostered through experience in the arts that are not possible in other subjects offered in the curriculum. All students, parents, faculty, alumni and members of the Mobile community and media are encouraged to help bring awareness to art education during Youth Art Month (YAM) by using the hashtag #YAMstpauls when posting about YAM on the St. Paul's Facebook and Twitter pages.

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Autauga County Schools Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Older & Younger Faith Students Celebrate

Faith Academy kindergarten students enjoyed an array of celebrations and activities the week of March 3-7, in honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Activities included a breakfast of green eggs and ham, making Dr. Seuss hats to wear, being read to by the band director and middle school principal (dressed up like Dr. Seuss, no less), and craft projects of creating their own Lorax character. Students in Mrs. Anderson’s K5 class enjoyed a special treat when Mr. Sauers’ chemistry students came over to visit. The chemistry students each read a K-5 student a Dr. Seuss book and helped them with their Lorax craft. Special thanks to all the parents that helped make Dr. Seuss birthday week so special. Pictured, Faith Academy junior students of Mr. Sauers’ chemistry class enjoy one-onone time, reading a Dr. Seuss book to Mrs. Anderson’s K-5 students as part of Dr. Seuss birthday week activities.

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St. Dominic Students Hold St. Patrick’s Day Parade

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St. Dominic Catholic School students love a parade, especially our Preschool students. On St. Patrick’s Day our PreK students participated in a parade, complete with floats and throws. They paraded around campus as faculty, staff and students cheered. Here Audrey Tison joins in the parade fun.

Dawes Intermediate Brings Home the Hardware

Hundreds of public, private parochial and homeschooled students showed off their talents and were justly rewarded at the 30th annual Computer Science Fair sponsored by Faulkner State Community College. The students competed in several categories including: applications, robotics, web page, multimedia and video. The students, grades 3-12, were given a project at the beginning of the year and presented their work at the fair. Three Mobile County Public Schools competed: Dawes intermediate, Castlen elementary and Faulkner Vocational. Dawes students came back with the most hardware: 8 first-place, 5 second-place,6 third-place trophies and 6 honorable mentions. And if that isn’t enough, the Dawes team also won the 2013-14 Best in the Fair Regional Award. The team actually went head-to-head with a high school and came out on top! First and second place winners will go to the state competition April 26th in Auburn. Fourth-grade teacher Pamela Creel said, “They worked very hard for what they achieved. The teamwork we observed throughout the process of their projects was phenomenal. There is so much more to educating a child than pencil and paper." This was Castlen’s first time to compete. Principal Pam Adams is 100 percent behind the competition. “The Faulkner Technology Competition represents all that is good in STEM education and its relationship to workforce development. Students apply STEM skills (Science, technology, engineering and math) and 21st century soft skills in developing, designing and improving projects in multiple areas of technology-- robotics, video broadcasting, web design, programming and more. "Working in teams, they learn to collaborate, express opinions and consider the ideas of others. They also have a lot of fun. So much fun those students spent the ride home planning their next projects.” Castlen students brought home 2 first-place awards, 3 second-place awards, 3 third-place awards and 5 honorable mention awards. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

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Covenant Christian SGA Visits Mayor’s Office

The Covenant Christian School S.G.A. visited the Mayor’s Office on April 1 and attended a City Council Meeting. This was a big day for Mayor Stimson as his amended budget proposal was passed unanimously by the city council. Mayor Stimpson also took time out of his busy day to speak to the students about leadership, faith, and his ideas on improving our great city. Pictured L to R : Sawyer Simpson, Andrew Dismukes, Jake Dale, Andrew Hii, Sampson Baggett, Coach Richardson, Noah Lynch, Sam Hannan, Micah Russ, Noah Giattina, Mayor Stimpson, Dreanna Freeland, Zoe Stokes, Ellie Pearce, Katherine Allred, Adelane Stroh, Brittney Sharpe, Abbe Wentland, and Angela Russ.

Too Good for Drugs at McDavid-Jones

Members of the Citronelle United Methodist Church came to McDavid-Jones every Thursday for eight weeks and taught lessons on “Too Good for Drugs”. The program discussed “Gateway Drugs” such as tobacco, alcohol and marijuana. The students have workbooks that were purchased by the church. Each student received a T-Shirt as a reminder that they are “Too Good for Drugs”. This is the fourth year that the church as presented this program to our students. On April 1st, the school celebrated the end of the study. Shane Stringer, Citronelle Police Chief, came and talked to the students about “Choices” that they were going to be faced with in the coming years. He discussed how one bad choice could change their lives forever. Mr. Rick Pickern and his drug dog Rambo, and Mr. Jason Shaw and his drug dog Hicks, also visited the school. Mr. Pickern talked to the students about the dangers of drugs and how important it was to make the right choices. He told them that “good people made bad choices every day” and that those choices changed their lives, as well as, their families forever. Rambo and Hicks were a hit with the students! We would like to thank Pam Roberts, Larry Yonge, Rosemary Williams, Tina Poffenbarger, and Amy Merritt for coming each week and the church for all you do for our students. We would also like to thank Mayor Al McDonald for his donation to the program this year. In picture Aalivia Sampson, Andre’ Weaver and Nijah Lee and Ms. Pam Roberts.

St. Paul’s Celebrates its Third Year of Writer’s Stylus

The St. Paul’s Writer’s Stylus program provides a cohesive writing curriculum for grades K-12. The curriculum focuses on both Writing Concepts and Revision (Grammar) Skills. With Writer’s Stylus, students engage in the process of writing in over ten genres and in every content area. They are taught to develop their ideas with visual tools and graphic organizers, and to construct detailed Vision Statements. The curriculum takes a unique approach to traditional grammar instruction, which is no longer taught in isolation, but rather as a means to revise and improve writing. The Revision (Grammar) Skills are applied to student writing in one on one teacher/student coaching sessions. Writer’s Stylus equips St. Paul’s students with the tools they need to communicate their thoughts, feelings and knowledge through the written word. The following students have written and revised outstanding papers, in these content areas and genres (listed in order of Grade: Genre: Content Area: Student) 3rd, Compare and Contrast, Science, Macy Browning; 3rd, Step By Step How To, Geography, Connor Pierce; 3rd, Descriptive (setting), English, Emma Nagel; 4th, Descriptive (setting/character), English, Mary Elizabeth; 4th, Compare and Contrast, English, Maggie Sullivan; 4th, Short Story, Reading, MeMe Carrington; 5th, Compare/Contrast, English, Eleanor Wilson; 5th, Step By Step How To, Math, Marie Robinson; 5th, Cause and Effect, Science, Ira Cherniak; 5th, Descriptive Narrative, Reading, Abby Chaffe; 6th, Persuasive Reading, Tech, Gate Kauffman; 6th, Step By Step How To, Math, Isobel Crumb; 6th, Cause and Effect, Science, George Kemmerly; 6th, Descriptive, English, Alex Rosenthal. St. Paul’s will host a Writer’s Stylus Basic Course for teachers June 2-6, 2014. To learn more about the program or to register, visit www.writersstylus.com.

Congratulations Red Ribbon Leadership Winners

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Mobile County Public Schools would like to congratulate our winners of Red Ribbon Leadership Awards from the Drug Education Council. Two high school students received scholarships for their projects. They are: Andrew Clark of Alma Bryant High. He created an after-school program to teach children the dangers of drug abuse and spent time showing kids the effect that drugs have on their bodies. Briana Baldwin of Vigor High. She created a brochure about the relationship of substance abuse and domestic violence. She also led a school assembly to discuss the dangers of substance abuse. Other MCPSS winners were: Kayleigh Smith, Tanner Williams Elementary; Ty McKinion, O'Rourke Elementary; Hannah Rigby, Nan Gray Davis Elementary; Cade Dunagan, Wilmer Elementary; Taylor Brown, Griggs Elementary; Kiara Gould, Scarborough Middle; Sara Baldwin, Dunbar Magnet School; Amber Gorlott, Grant Bay Middle.

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Autauga County Schools Little Flower Students

Volunteer at Food Bank

Students from Little Flower Catholic School helped out at the Bay Area Food Bank. They spent part of their school day sorting and loading canned goods to be distributed to clients in need. Shown are students in Ms. Alesa Weiskopf's fifth grade class, (L to R) Leslie Solis, Brittany King, Samantha Borja, Joseph Pierre, Christopher Massey, Michael Hieronomyus, Gracie Falgout, Edy Gael.

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St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Learns About Natural Disasters

The St. Luke's third grade classes have been busy studying weather and natural disaster preparedness. They were very excited to host Dr. Steve Diaz, the Deputy Director of USACE Readiness Support Center, who designs simulations of disasters so that the experts can plan and discuss strategies to help our community. In this simulation, Hurricane Barry barreled into Mobile and put Mobile Convention Center under 15 feet of water!

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St. Paul’s Students Sweep Publix “Go Green” Video Contest

St. Paul’s Episcopal School students swept the Publix “Go Green” Video Contest by bringing home 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in the State of Alabama. The “Go Green” Video Contest was created by Publix as a part of their corporate sustainability campaign in an effort to encourage “getting into a green routine” at home and at school. Representatives from the Publix Corporate office said “the St. Paul’s students had by far the best content and editing of all other videos submitted.” The first place winners, Faith Dyes, Eloise Bullis, Natalie Garcia and Sage Taylor, received a $400 dollar Apple gift card each for their video titled “Super WEPS (Water and Energy Paper Saver) Saves the School.” Highlighted in the winning video were many sustainable measures that take place on campus including: the use of 1.6 gallons of water per flush rather than 3-5 gallons to conserve water; a successful recycling program that is in place when students complete assignments on paper rather than their individual laptops; and the use of motion sensor lights to conserve energy campus-wide. Taking 2nd place for their “Ways to Save the World” video were Laurel Williamson, Abigail Jernigan, Morgan Harington and Avery Nobles. Third place went to “RRR (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) on Chalkboard” by Sara Posey and Sara Margaret Helmsing. “This is just another confirmation of how great and talented the St. Paul’s students really are,” said Middle School teacher Mike Fricke. These actions put in place by St. Paul’s and its student body is just a small effort to help improve our environment that we live and learn in every day. Pictured L to R: First place winners Eloise Bullis, Natalie Garcia, Faith Dyes and Sage Taylor are excited about their accomplishment!.

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Autauga County Schools Elementary Raises Money Chickasaw for Autism Awareness

April is Autism Awareness month. Haleigh McCane, a 4th grade student who is autistic, decided she wanted to raise awareness and funds for the cause. With the help of the Autistic Society of Alabama, Haleigh and Chickasaw Elementary raised a total of $517.53. Haleigh donated $150 to the Autism Society to, “Help children of the world with autism”. The remaining money raised will be used to purchase sensory supplies for all of the students on campus who are autistic. On April 2, Mayor Byron Pittman declared that day Autism Awareness Day for the city of Chickasaw. Pictured from left to right are: Mrs. Stubbs, Mrs. Grizzle, Mrs. Lindsey Jackson (Haleigh’s teacher), Mrs. Kercher, Angel Loewen (Autism Society of Alabama), Chief of Police, Chief Reynolds, Superintendent Kyle Kallhoff, and Mrs. Clubbs.

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McGill-Toolen Catholic High School Holds NHS Induction/ Stole Ceremony

McGill-Toolen seniors who are members of the National Honor Society received their stoles for graduation and the 26 new members were inducted at a ceremony following Mass at St, Mary's Church. Students and parents celebrated with a reception immediately following.

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St. Ignatius Kindergartners Put on Multicultural Fashion Show

The St. Ignatius Kindergarten class put on a Fashion Show February 27. Each student dressed as a different country in their production of, “It’s a Small World.” After the production the class had a cast party with all the families. Pictured here left to right are Stella Grace Harp, Andin Choquette and Anna Grace D’Olive.

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St. Vincent de Paul Has 'Luck O The Irish' On St. Patrick's Day!

St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School might not have had leprechauns for St. Patrick’s Day, but the students were treated to a real live bagpiper. Mr. Bill Fletcher entertained the student body with many Irish favorites to celebrate the day. Lest anyone think that children wouldn't enjoy bagpipe music...Mr. Fletcher had them clapping and tapping their toes! He even had them up and doing a little Irish jig! The excitedto-be-Irish-fora-day student body also learned some interesting facts about St. Patrick’s life. They were surprised to hear that he was not Irish, but that he came to Ireland as a missionary to convert the Irish to Catholicism. Apparently St. Patrick discovered that he wanted to be Irish for more than a day!

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Autauga County SchoolsChristi Catholic School Corpus

Sells Smoothies to Raise Money for McKemie Place

The members of Corpus Christi Catholic Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Student Leadership Committee presented McKemie Place with a $300 donation from money that was raised through a smoothie sale at school. In addition, the Disciples of St. Michael, a service club at the school, donated blankets that were made by the 8th grade class. Pictured are SLC members and Ms. Vickie Bowers, Director of McKemie Place.

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Robert E. Lee Students Tour Drug Prevention Bus

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The fifth grade students at Robert E. Lee Elementary School were able to participate in a unique experience recently. Students were able to tour the drug prevention bus sponsored by the Drug Education Council of Mobile. Inside the bus students were able to see the first hand effects drugs can have on a person's body.

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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

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St. Paul’s Scholar’s Bowl Team Continues with Successful Season

The St. Paul’s Upper School Scholar’s Bowl Team has had a great season thus far. They have qualified to compete in a national tournament in Chicago due to their strong finish in a tournament at Pace High School in September 2013. Recently, both the A and B teams competed in a tournament at UMS Wright. The A-team won every match in their pool, with a record of 6-0. The B-team did the same in their pool. The final pitted the A-team against the B-team. The B-team prevailed, giving St. Paul’s both the first and second place trophies for the tournament. A- team participants include Danielle Williamson, John Kavula, Conner Denton, and Matt D’Alonzo. The B-team members were Frank D’Alonzo, Kendall Ann Bailey, Daniel Lane, and Noah Harrelson. The A-team also participated in the District Tournament in February, placing first and qualifying for the Regional Tournament which was held on March 1st at LAMP High School in Montgomery. Their performance at the LAMP Tournament further qualified them to compete at the state meet in Birmingham in April.

UMS-Wright 5th Grade Presents “Rats!”

The 5th grade at UMS-Wright recently presented “Rats!”, a humorous musical retelling of the story of the Pied Piper and the rats that invaded the town of Hamelin. This is one of the many productions that Lower School music teacher Kristi Howze produces each year. Over the course of the school year each grade in Lower School is led by Mrs. Howze, along with their classroom teachers, in fabulous productions and plays. So far this year fellow students, family, and friends have been treated to the following performances: “Of Thee I Sing” 4th Grade; “Go Fish” 2nd Grade; a Valentine’s performance by K4; “North Pole Musical” 3rd Grade; “Barnyard Moosical” 1st Grade; and “We Give Thanks” Kindergarten. Students in grades 3-5 also have the opportunity to sing in the Lower School Chorus, also led by Mrs. Howze, which performs on campus and across the community throughout the year.

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Autauga County Schools Phillips Prep Student Wins 1st in Environmental at Alabama Science Fair

Carly Alexander, 7th grader at Phillips Preparatory School, placed first at the 2014 Alabama Science and Engineering Fair (ASEF) in the Environmental category, Junior Division, and won a $50 award from UAH/ASEF. Carly's project is titled "Building Beaches". She studied the erosional rates due to normal wave action on 4 different beach compositions: fine sand, coarse sand, pea gravel, and a layered beach profile of pea gravel over fine sand. To test it she constructed a mini wave flume to conduct a total of 48 tests. Her test results showed that as the sediment size increased, the erosional rate decreased. Her motivation for choosing this project came from a love of the beaches of Dauphin Island. Carly also received 5 special awards as follows: 1. Best in Show awarded by the American Meteorological Society 2. Best in Show awarded by the Association for Women Geoscientists 3. Runner up for the Junior Scholarship to Gulf Island Journey awarded by the Dauphin Island Sea Lab - Marine Environmental Consortium 4. Selected to compete at Broadcom Masters 5. National Youth Science Foundation Award. Congratulations to our student scientist and her successful win! View more of her recognition on The Dauphin Island Sea Lab facebook page athttps://www.facebook.com/discoveryhallprograms.

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Clark-Shaw Students Have Artwork on Display at State Capitol

Three Clark-Shaw Magnet students, Darby Short, Karim Garcia, and Alex Zheng, (left to right in photo) were chosen to participate in the annual State Superintendentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Visual Arts Exhibit that was held February 6-21, and they received Outstanding Student Art Certificates. School systems throughout the state were asked to submit fifteen pieces of artwork to be on public display in the Old Supreme Court Library of the Alabama State Capitol. The Artwork is judged on the following criteria: Original Design, Technical Skill, Expression, and Composition.

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Faith Academy Celebrates Teacher Appreciation Week

Through creating test, lesson plans, and helping students before and after school, Faith Academy students may never understand how teachers of Faith truly keep up with everything with which they are faced. Teachers do a lot throughout the year and it is good to appreciate the things that they do for us on a daily basis. SGA organized Teacher Appreciation Week the week of March 10-14, for teachers in all grade levels at Faith Academy. Each day the teachers were given little "happies" to remind them of how important they are to the students at the school. Wednesday morning, the elementary teachers were treated with a breakfast delivered to them by SGA members. Then on Friday the high school teachers were treated with a smorgasbord of food for breakfast in the cafeteria. Ms. Terri Saucer, a second grade teacher said “I felt truly blessed during Teacher Appreciation Week. Even a little spoiled!” Everyone needs a little encouragement every once in a while and to know they are appreciated. After all, teachers pour blessings out into students’ lives every day, so why not bless them for a week? Pictured, Faith Academy SGA members Kaitlynn Chapman, Mallory Jackson, Mady Braswell, and Adrianne Wright are delivering breakfast to elementary teachers as part of their teacher appreciation week March 10-14.

McDavid-Jones Teacher of the Year

McDavid-Jones is proud to have Melanie Carpenter represent our school as Teacher of the Year! Melanie has been teaching for 13 years. She taught 5 years in kindergarten at Belsaw-Mt. Vernon, and 2 years in second grade at McDavid-Jones. She is in her 6th year of teaching kindergarten at McDavid-Jones. Mrs. Carpenter has earned both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Alabama. She also earned an Associate’s degree from Faulkner State. When she was a student in second grade she decided that she wanted to be a teacher and she says she never changed her mind, even when many people tried unsuccessfully to persuade her to take a different career path later in life. Mrs. Carpenter’s mom worked at the school where she attended, and often the teachers would let her “help” them after school. She believes that experience had a lot to do with her decision to become a teacher. Mrs. Carpenter’s family lives in Citronelle. She is married to Doug Carpenter. They have a blended family with two sons, ages 15 and 13, and one daughter, who is 8 years old. They have a child at each public school in Citronelle. Mrs. Carpenter and her family attend Oasis Church where she and her husband serve as youth leaders. Mrs. Carpenter also chairs the Relay for Life team at Oasis Church, she teaches Sunday School, and she fills in on the Oasis Church Praise Team.

St. Mary Celebrating Faith—The Prayer Before the Game

With the traditional prayer before the game, St. Mary Division 8 Girls teams played each other in the McGill-Toolen Catholic High School Tournament. Both teams tied for number one in the regular CYO Season. The 7th Grade Girls coached by Beau Baggett, took first in tournament over the 8th grade girls coached by LaBarron McClendon. 27

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Autauga County SchoolsScholars Win 2nd Place at Semmes Super Tournament

Our Semmes Middle School Scholarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bowl Team earned a 4th place trophy in the Yellow division and an invitation to the Bay Area Scholastic Challenge Super Tournament to end their regular season. They competed in the Super Tournament on March 14th with the 20 top public and private schools from Mobile, Baldwin, Clark, and Escambia counties competing in the BASC, and did an outstanding job finishing the tournament with a 2nd place trophy and cash reward to the school. Coaches Mary Fountain and Docia Miscov are so proud of the SMS team members, Daniel Cook (not pictured), Makenna Crone, Kathleen Leaird, Chris Normand, Carter Sellers, and Harley Smith for their dedication, positive attitude, and perseverance.

Friday Night Fish Fry at Corpus Christi

Members of Corpus Christi parish and school enjoy good food, fun and fellowship during the Friday Night Fish Fries during Lent. Pictured are (back row): Joanne Donaghey, Nicky Cox, Tracey Netto, (front row): Michelle Kirkpatrick, Theresa Mecsko and Colleen DeVoe.

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Special Olympics Basketball Team Brings Home the Gold

The Mobile County All Stars, comprised of eight athletes, recently traveled to Montgomery Alabama to compete in the Special Olympics State Basketball Tournament. They won gold and are the State Champions! Players were chosen from a local Special Olympics basketball tournament. Congratulations to team members Antrell Nichols, Andrew Hubbard, Reggie Glaude, Keyon Peters, Justyn Williams, Xavier Bozeman, William Anderson, Tyler Smith and coaches Shane Stewart and Sheryl Thomas.

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Airbus Dog Visits E.R. Dickson Class

To mark the anniversary of the Airbus groundbreaking event that took place on April 8, 2013, Airbus authored a new coloring book about its A320 Family assembly line. The purpose of creating the coloring book is to engage Mobile County Public School children in Aerospace industry by distributing copies to kindergarten and first grade classes throughout the system. The children at E.R. Dickson were thrilled to have the actual dog from the book, Rivet, visit their class. Hurdle read the book to a class and answered questions. "Partnerships with the community is an important goal in our schools," states Ms. Katryna Ellis, "teachers and students appreciate the support and encouragement from business leaders such as Airbus." In the picture is Ms. Payneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kindergarten Class.

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

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St. Luke’s Episcopal School Students Invited to Capstone Leadership Academy

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For the fourth consecutive year, both of the St. Luke's Episcopal School nominees to the Capstone Leadership Academy at The University of Alabama were selected to participate in the program. Students from across the state who have shown an interest in leadership through service are nominated by their schools. One hundred of these students are selected to participate by The Capstone Council, an alumni group comprised of former SGA Presidents, Crimson Girls and Capstone Men, the Office of the President, and the Honors College. The annual event is held on The University of Alabama campus. Pictured are St. Luke's sophomores Sara Taylor and Rachel Parden who attended the 2014 Academy on March 13th and 14th.

Mary G. Montgomery Teacher Selected to Visit Japan as Keizai Koho Center Fellow

We are so proud to inform you that Mary G. Montgomery's very own Ms. Denese Wilson has been selected as a 2014 Keizai Koho Center Fellow! She was one of only ten fellows selected from among thousands of well-qualified candidates from both Canada and the United States. Her two weeks in Japan this summer as a fellow will provide her the opportunity to learn firsthand about contemporary Japanese society and enhance her classroom teaching of global perspectives. Activities will include visits to Japanese schools, major companies, industrial facilities, and a 2 day homestay with a Japanese family!

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Autauga County Schools Optimist Club Oratorical

Competition & Multicultural Oratorical Competition

Congratulations to Michaela Hobson and Jakard Logan for winning the Optimist Club Oratorical competition for Zone 5 on March 20. Both Michaela and Jakard competed April 12, in Daphne in the Optimist Club regional competition. On March 21st, MGM played host to Baker, LeFlore, and Vigor in an oratorical competition. The winners of the completion were 1st place, Tyler Simmons, a senior at LeFlore; 2nd place, Carl Daniels, a junior at Vigor; and 3rd place, Adonis Daris, a junior at Baker. Andrea McNeill and Courtney Ogburn also delivered exceptional speeches and represented MGM well. Our judges were Megan Sparks and Katherine Rigsby, communications professors at USA, and Chasity Byrd, meteorologist and reporter for Fox 10 news. Pictured from left to right: Megan Sparks, Carl Daniels, Courtney Ogburn, Andrea McNeill, Tyler Simmons, Adonis Daris, Chasity Byrd, and Katherine Rigsby.

Robert E. Lee Students Celebrate Grandparents

On March 20th, the students of Robert E. Lee Elementary School celebrated Grandparent's Day in grand fashion. Students presented their grandparents with specially-prepared songs, letters, and poems. Grandparents were even treated to cake and punch. In the photo fifth grade students read aloud the poems they wrote to their grandparents.

Dawes Intermediate Brings Home the Hardware

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

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St. Ignatius Hosts Parade

St. Ignatius school hosted the 17th Annual Order of Impalas parade on February 27. Over 50 floats were in the parade from the PreK3 and PreK4 classes. Each class had a different theme with a king and queen and knight and princess. Leading the parade left to right are Jacob Andrews, Millie Andrews and Sarah Beth Bexley. The entire school along with families attended the parade on the St. Ignatius campus.

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McGill-Toolen Singers Excel at Music Festival in Texas

The McGill-Toolen Catholic High School Choral Company Chamber Singers took top honors at the Heritage Music Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The singers participated in three different divisions, Chamber Choir, Women’s Choir, and Men’s choir, and earned a Superior score in all three. The Chamber Singers and Men’s choirs were awarded first place, while the Women’s Choir received a second place ranking. Maestro awards were given to Logan Anthony and Isabel Rutens as the top soloists in the Mixed Choir and Women’s Choir divisions, respectively.

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Kids Get the Inside Story

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Give any child a closed box and the first thing they will ask is “What’s inside?” And as parents we know it’s much cooler to keep the secret and enjoy the surprise, the discovery. And it’s not just cool, it’s smart. Instead of just telling children what’s beneath the surface, why not give them the tools to find the answers for themselves. There are many kits, games and toys that inspire kids to peer inside, and what they find only leads deeper, to seek what else may be hidden. Curiosities being the hallmark of youthful exploration, the following items give kids the resource to go beneath the surface and to seek amazing inside stories.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Break Open Real Geodes

4D Visions: Dog (Tedco)

Part of a series of anatomy kits for kids, the 4D Visions: Dog offers an inside view of the man’s best friend, and all the interior marvels that make him tick. Standing about sixand-a-half inches high, the realistic canine frame contains 28 removable components that feature a dog’s anatomy. An ideal intro into vertebrate mammal structure, young hands can use the included assembly guide to build and disassemble the model while learning their way around the interior biology of a dog. With great hand-painted details, this exploration of everything inside a dog makes a great discovery tool and a cool display when it’s not teaching!

(Dr. Cool Science)

Geodes are natural rock formations that form when hollow chambers occur in rock and over time minerals accrete inside, forming crystals of different shapes and colors. But no one knows what is inside these small roundish stones until they are cracked open. With the Break Open Real Geodes kit, kids can use the enclosed safety goggles and a borrowed hammer to crack open the kit’s six geodes which are millions of years old. Once the hammer strikes and the mysterious crystals inside the stones are revealed, the kit includes an Adventurer’s Guide with more facts about the science of geodes. At once satisfying curiosity while encouraging a smashing good time, kids will love to take a whack at geodes to see what’s inside!

Nancy B’s ScienceClub Aquascope

Perplexus

(PlaSmart Inc.) This challenging sphere keeps the game play just under the surface, while players on the outside twist, turn and tumble the ball to win. Perplexus is a clear plastic globe that contains a complex maze and a single silver ball. Navigating the maze inside the sphere – yet unable to touch the silver ball – players must look inside and use only outside manipulation to move the ball through its paces and to its destination. Twists, flips, spins and other moves keep the ball in play on the inside. Reasoning and reflexes combine to move the ball that you can’t touch through challenges, mazes, tracks and tunnels just in sight, but out of reach. Fun for individual play or multi-player timed challenges, Perplexus takes you inside a game you can’t put down!

(Educational Insights)

While our eyes are always drawn to pools of water, the reflective and shifting surface makes it hard to see what lies just below. The ScienceClub Aquascope is an engaging tool that allows the user to break the surface and get a clear, magnified view of what’s happening beneath the water line. Perfect for spying creatures and formations just under the water’s surface of tide pools, shallow ponds, slow creeks and more, the Aquascope is also equipped with a temperature strip and a LED flashlight for extra underwater illumination. The included Marine Biologist’s Journal offers activities that encourage note-taking, drawings and more. Best enjoyed by the middle-school set, the Aquascope is a drylander’s dream for a journey of discovery just below the surface of ponds and pools.

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 2014

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Q. I’m in the military, and

my wife and I have $13,000 in the bank along with $35,000 in a Roth IRA. We also have no debt, and we put $3,500 into our savings account each month. Our new baby is due to arrive in a few months, so do you think this would be a good time to buy our first home?

A. Based on the market

alone, it’s a great time to buy a house. Interest rates are fantastic, and prices are recovering but still buyerfriendly. However, considering your wife’s delivery date and the fact that it takes a while to find and complete the process of buying a home, I think I’d wait on this. Moving is stressful enough under normal circumstances, but combining that with a pregnancy could shoot your wife’s stress levels into the stratosphere. I really don’t think you want to do that to her. And speaking as an old married guy, it’s something you don’t want to experience, either.

Another thing to consider is if there’s a good chance you’ll be reassigned in the next four or five years. We work with the military a lot, and that means we see people who buy, and get stuck with, homes all over the country. These places usually become rental homes because they don’t sell quickly. And this is a situation you want to avoid because being a longdistance landlord is a real pain. If everything falls into place, you could easily have enough set aside for a big down payment a few months after the baby arrives. At that point, things will feel a little more settled. I know the temptation is great right now to move into a place you can call your own, but you want buying a home to be a blessing, not a curse. Take a little more time, and see how things feel careerand family-wise in a few months. That’s my advice.

Q. Is it better to keep your emergency

fund in a certificate of deposit or a money market account?

A. Right now, a short-term certificate of deposit (CD) pays about the same as a money market account. The problem is you’re only going to make about 1 percent with either one. The good thing about a money market, though, is that there are no early withdrawal fees attached. In my mind, an emergency fund isn’t there for the purpose of making money. It needs to just sit safe and sound until it’s needed. It should also be in a program where it’s easily accessible and there are no stupid fees or penalties for simply using your own money. So, yeah, savings interest rates right now are aggravating. But you don’t have 3- or 4-percent-home-mortgage world without a 1-percent CD world. They kind of go together. Just remember that interest rates aren’t the end game when it comes to your emergency fund. You want three to six months of expenses just sitting there, waiting for life to happen. Trust me, it will!

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Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

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Most parents see changes in behavior in their older children sometime during the first year after a new sibling is born. Parents may see a once-agreeable child acting out, becoming defiant, or beginning to show behavior struggles at school. This is normal; a child’s natural growth compounded with the stress of adjusting to a new family member can be overwhelming. It can cause her to think differently about herself and to behave differently as she tries to find her place in the family. When a new sibling comes home, an older child’s place in the family has changed, and she has difficulty understanding that it’s not a replacement, but simply a re-adjustment. Like everything in child development, this transition takes time. According to Dr. Jane Nelsen, parent educator and author of Positive Discipline, what kids need most is a sense of significance and belonging, and this need is often most persistent after the birth of a new sibling. Nelsen says, “Significance and belonging are what all children and adults strive for; we want to know that we matter and that we have an important place in the world.” To a child, that ‘world’ is his family, and the arrival of a new sibling can disrupt any sense of security that he had in it. When he no longer feels that he belongs, those feelings are inherently reflected in his behavior. Dr. Nelsen says, “A misbehaving child is a discouraged child.” Misbehavior is the result of a child’s subconscious belief about himself that he is unloved or unimportant. He may act out to try to reconfirm his parents’

love, or try to reestablish his own sense of significance. “It is important for parents to realize that a child’s difficult behavior is the result of feeling discouraged about his place in the family. Rather than being punished, that child needs to be encouraged,” says Nelsen. And there are many ways to offer it.

Verbal Encouragement

The most recognizable form of encouragement is probably the use of verbal statements like, “Thank you for helping me make dinner. I really appreciate it!” or, “Wow, you sure worked hard on that Lego tower. That was a lot of work,” or, “You must feel so proud of yourself right now!” Encouraging words like these are more effective than statements of blanket praise like, “You’re such a good sister,” as they focus on the child’s efforts and help her develop an internal sense of pride.

Emotional Encouragement

A less obvious, yet vital kind of encouragement is the validation of feelings. Anytime a parent validates a child’s feelings—whether those feelings are positive or negative—they are telling that child, “It’s OK to feel that way; it’s normal,” and children need to hear this. It lets them know that they’re unconditionally accepted in the family: exactly what a newly older sibling needs. Parents can help children feel secure by allowing, articulating and accepting all of their feelings—pleasant or not.

Encouragement through Self Confidence

When kids begin to act out after a new baby comes home, what is most likely happening is that they are mistakenly thinking that they must regain Mom and Dad’s attention to secure their place in the family. The

message coded in their behavior is, “Notice me! Involve me usefully!” Parents can give even very young children jobs to help out; opportunities to be noticed and become involved. They can help set the table, wash the windows, prepare food, shop at the store, get themselves dressed, take charge of their routines, help themselves to their own snacks, pour their own drinks, wipe the table, and many other age-appropriate tasks. These are the kinds of activities that give kids confidence and help them feel like valued, contributing members of the family.

One-on-One Encouragement

When a new baby comes home, give your child a gift: the gift of time. The best gift for an older sibling is simply a parent’s regular focus connecting with them during this difficult transition (and beyond). After the birth of a new sibling is a perfect time to start scheduling regular “special time” together, during which the child leads the play for 1520 minutes every day. It is a daily opportunity to ensure some valuable one-on-one time with older children, and kids look forward to this regular part of the day with each parent. It communicates to a child, “I’m here for you. You are important.” When children become new older siblings, parents can help kids feel secure by understanding and responding to the motivation behind their behavior—that instinctive pursuit of significance and belonging—more so than the behavior itself. Children need to be encouraged to realize their place in the family. They are significant and they do belong, and they need to know that. MBP Kelly Bartlett is the author of “Encouraging Words For Kids.” She is a Certified Positive Discipline Educator and freelance writer with a focus on child development, family relationships and discipline.

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5pm. Founded in 1956, Tiny Town is the oldest and best-known children’s boutique on the Gulf Coast.

The Visitation Gift Shop

2300 Spring Hill Avenue, Mobile (251) 471-4106; www.visitationmonasterymobile.org/HTMLcode/ Shop.htm Open Monday-Friday 10am-5pm; Summer hours for Saturday 10:00 - 3:00 Memorial Day through Labor Day. We feature a variety of unique gifts and accessories that you won’t want to miss! In addition to the large selection of religious books and gifts for all denominations, we offer an array of new and vintage linens - perfect for that special wedding or baby gift.

BABY BOUTIQUES Baby Talk

29892 Woodrow Lane Ste. 400, Daphne TKR Centre across from Eastern Shore Center (251)298-TALK (8255); babytalkes@gmail.com Your one stop shop for all things baby! Grovia and Bum Genius cloth diapers, Magnificent Baby clothing with no snaps and no zippers, KissyKissy, Aden and Anais, Melissa & Doug, Medela breast pumps (We can file your insurance for BCBS of Alabama), Personal service for bra fitting and nursing supplies, Go-Lacta to increase your milk supply and lactation consultant on staff. Find us on Facebook!

Tiny Town

3980 Airport Blvd #H, Mobile (Large selection of furniture) (251) 341-1480; www.tinytowninc.com Tiny Town specializes in traditional children’s clothing, gifts, jewelry, furniture (Mobile Location) and more. We pride ourselves on offering a large selection of quality items and excellent customer service. We know how important shopping for that “coming home” outfit or that “perfect gift” can be, so we strive to give you the best shopping experience possible. Open Monday-Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 10amMobile Bay Parents I May 2014

• A Little Shop 5475 Highway 43, Satsuma (251) 679-2988 Children’s clothing and elegant baby and children gifts along with home decor. Located across from Satsuma High. • Attractions Childrens Apparel 207 Dauphin St, Mobile (251) 438-1758 Open Monday-Saturday, from 10:00am-5:00pm We are a children’s specialty shop offering a tremendous selection of clothes and accessories for boys and girls of all ages and sizes. We carry smocked dresses, pageant dresses, flower girl dresses and everything in-between. We offer suits and linen outfits as well as casual pieces. Our clothing is very selective and original and our prices are exceptional. Come see us for all your boys and girls clothing needs. • Blessed Baskets & Gifts 1300 Schillinger Road S, Mobile (251) 635-1354; www.blessedbasketsmobile.com We are a unique gift boutique in West Mobile. Our specialty is quality gifts for reasonable prices including Baby and Children gifts. Custom gift basket design is available. • Children’s Cottage 2504 Old Shell Road, Mobile (251) 476-2880; www.childrenscottage.net Open Monday - Friday: 10:00am-5:00pm, Saturday: 10:00am-2:00pm 36

We carry new and custom made children’s clothing clothes, smocked dresses, smocked clothing, 1st first birthday dress dresses clothing, birthday clothing, birthday clothes, birthday outfits, heirloom dresses and heirloom children’s clothing, hair accessories, hair bows, shoes by L’Amour, and baby gifts. • Five Gold Monkeys 4350 Old Shell Rd # B, Mobile (251) 345-3380 Open Monday-Friday 9:30-5:00pm Saturday 10:00am-3:00pm (251) 344-4051, Furniture*fabric*accessories* gifts*children’s clothes • The Ginger House 59 North Florida Street, Mobile (251) 471-6900, www.thegingerhouse.com Open Monday-Friday 10:00am-5:00pm, Saturday 10:00am-2:00p. The Ginger House children’s unique clothing boutique, specialty and designer brands, back to school, custom made clothing, playwear, dress clothing, and heirloom outfits for boys and girls. Smocked dresses, baby clothes, unique baby gifts, christening gowns, special occasion clothing, holiday clothing, portrait clothes, boys smocked clothing, cute toddler outfits, Eton suits, 1st birthday clothing and outfits, appliqued clothing, monogramming personalized clothing and gifts. • Gilded Nest 2524A Old Shell Road, Mobile (251) 476-1555; www.thegildednest.com You will find an eclectic mix of wonderful gifts for everyone on your list. Take advantage of our call-ahead service and have your perfect gift wrapped and delivered to you curbside if you are running short on time. Great baby and children’s gifts! We always offer complimentary gift wrapping and a friendly staff to assist you. • Holiday, Inc. 4513 Old Shell Rd., Mobile (251) 342-4911; www.shoptheholiday.com Open Monday-Saturday 9:30am-5:00pm Fine Clothing & Accessories for Ladies and Children. Our children’s department has fun clothing, accessories, and gifts for all ages---infant to pre-teen girls and infant to size 20 boys. We specialize in Heirloom clothing, play wear, and more. We love all ages and strive to please young people and mom. • J-Ray Shoes 121 University Blvd., Mobile (251) 342-6322; www.jrayshoes.com Open Monday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm, Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm J-Ray Shoes has a large selection of quality traditional children’s shoes to compliment classic and heirloom clothes. This shop carries shoes, clothing & accessories. www.mobilebayparents.com

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• Karan’s Bows & More 6414 Grelot Rd Suite C, Mobile (251) 633 – 2030; www.karansbows.com Open Tuesday – Thursday 10:00am-6:00pm, Friday 10:00am-5:00pm, and Saturday 10:00am-4:00pm The perfect place for ribbons, bows, monogramming, appliques and more! • Kids Kottage 1781 Dawes Road, Mobile (251) 633-0000 Open Monday-Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm Kids Kottage Children’s Boutique located in West Mobile specializes in traditional to trendy children’s clothing, gift items and accessories! We offer custom design and monogramming! Located on the same property is Kids Kottage Upscale Resale.

Open Monday-Friday 10:00am-5:00pm, Saturday 10:00am-3:00pm Peanut Butter -n- Jelly Kids Heirloom Sewing, Smocking, and Embroidery Shop. Shop for imported fabrics & lace, sewing supplies, patterns, French hand sewing, smocking templates, sewing books, magazines, and more. • Polka Tot Designs 7899 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile 251-639-5265; www.polkatotdesigns.com Open Monday-Friday 9:30am-5:30pm, Saturday 9:30am-1:30pm Custom rooms for custom kids! Whether it’s custom baby bedding in your dream nursery or a cool college dorm room, we’re happy to help you with all your decorating needs. We specialize in custom baby bedding, kids bedding & window treatments.

• Little Monkey Toes Bell Air Mall, Mobile (251) 605-4279 Children’s clothing, shoes and accessories.

• Siegel’s Baby Room 758 Downtowner Blvd., Mobile (251) 342-9469 Open Monday – Thursday 10:00am-6:00pm, Friday-Saturday 10:00am-5:30pm • Peanut Butter -n- Jelly Kids We offer the finest new infant products. Clothing 3300 Old Shell Road, Mobile in soft baby pastels 0 to 24 months. Baby Linens (251) 479-8811; www.peanutbutter-n-jellykids.com MedSpa MBP ad 3/11/14 2:08 PM Page of 1 fine fabrics from all creditable manufactures.

Wood cribs, chests, changers, cradles, portablecribs armoires, bookcases, hutches and more for any budget. Madame Alexander Baby Dolls, and story book dolls. Glider Rockers and Ottomans with choice of style and fabric that have the smoothest glide available. Gifts and accessories for gifts to complement any nursery. • What a Stitch Gifts and Monograms 4513 Old Shell Rd., Mobile, (251) 343-4694 Open Monday – Friday 9:30am-5:00pm Baby gifts including bibs, baby robes, towels and more. Please feel free to bring in your own items to be monogrammed.

CHILDREN’S CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUES • Carousel Kids 4356 Old Shell Road, Suite D, Mobile (251)345-0559, www.carouselkidsmobile.com. Open Monday-Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 10am-4pm. We are a Children’s Consignment store that has new and gently used children’s items and maternity clothing.

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• Kids Kottage Upscale Resale 1781 Dawes Road, Mobile (251) 633-0000 Open Monday-Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm • Kid’s Wearhouse Inc. 3304 Old Shell Road, Mobile (251) 478-1310 Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00am-4:00pm Consignment – Baby accessories, children’s & infant clothing.

SEASONAL NEW CLOTHING/ CONSIGNMENT SALES Savvy Mom Sale

Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US Highway 98 www.savvymomsale.com Clear out the clutter and earn cash with The Savvy Mom Sale, LLC! Tackle that growing pile of untouched toys, children’s clothing, & furniture and easily turn it into extra spending money! It’s the perfect solution for today’s economy! The next sale will be June 11-14 at the Daphne Civic Center. First-time parents can get a free presale pass by visiting the website and registering. Sale days and hours are: Wed, June 11: 9-6pm; Thurs, June 12: 9-6pm; Fri, June 13: 9-6pm (25% off day); Sat, June 14: 8-1pm (50% off day). Visit www.SavvyMomSale.com. • Kidz Kloset 3679 Airport Blvd, Mobile (251) 342-8289; www.mykidzklozet.com Kidz Kloset holds a twice a year consignment sale event and five new clothing sales a year in Mobile. Check the website for upcoming sales and events. • Wee Exchange (251) 605-4279; www.wee-exchange.com Consignment Maternity, Baby, Toddlers, Children to Teens

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS AND STATIONARY • Artcraft Press 12 Tacon St, Mobile (251) 471-4383; www.artcraftpressmobile.com Open Monday – Friday 8:00-4:30 We can handle all your printing needs. We are conveniently located in midtown Mobile and offer free pick-up and delivery to anywhere in the greater Mobile area, but you’re always welcome to drop by during our regular business hours. • Gwin’s Stationary 4513 Old Shell Road, Mobile (251) 344-3335 Hours Monday - Friday: 9:30am - 5:00pm, Saturday 10:00am-4:00pm Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

Gwin’s Stationery is a Locally Owned Stationery and Invitation Store located in Spring Hill. • Its Inviting 5550 Old Shell Rd, Mobile (251) 460-0738; www.itsinvitingmobile.com Open Monday-Friday 10:00am-4:00pm, Saturday 10:00am-3:00pm It’s Inviting! is a full service stationery, invitation and gift store. We offer in house printing as well as thermography, engraving and letterpress. We are constantly adding new products and updating our selection to better serve your invitation, stationery and gift needs. • Paper Jubilee 2032 Airport Boulevard Suite H, Mobile (251) 401-5685 Open Tuesday – Friday 9:00am-5:00pm Paper Jubilee is a stationery store in Midtown – Mobile. Come and see! If you would like extra attention, make a Monday or Saturday appointment. • Write Impressions Inc. 3980 Airport Blvd, Mobile (251) 344-6820; www.writeimpressionsmobile.com Monday - Friday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm We opened our doors in 1992 with 800 square feet and have since expanded to 3500 square feet. What started as a simple stationery and invitation store has turned into a thriving gift and paper store. We also offer in house printing to create one of a kind party invitations and stationery. Our inventory is constantly changing, so drop by often to see what we have; you never know what you might find!

OB/GYNs, FERTILITY AND PRENATAL IMAGING Sneak-A-Peak Prenatal Imaging of Mobile

6345 D Airport Blvd., Mobile (251) 639-BABY; www.sneak-a-peek4d.com At Sneak-A-Peek, we provide you and your family the opportunity to interact and share this once in a lifetime experience through the eyes of our State-of-the-Art 3D/4D ultrasound technology. Come relax in our warm, spa like environment and witness your little miracle in our theatre viewing facility. Sneak-A-Peek also goes mobile for private sessions in your home. • Azalea City Physicians for Women 3715 Dauphin Street, Bldg 2, Suite 2-A, Mobile (251) 344-5265; www.azaleacityphysicians.com Dr. Glenn Gallaspy, Dr. Glenn T. Gallaspy III, Dr. Lauren Self, Dr. Lauren Lambrecht Azalea City Physicians for Women has an established reputation of providing excellence in women’s healthcare for over 25 years. Our practice continues to lead the way by offering 38

the most cutting-edge care available in the Mobile Bay area. Our physicians are dedicated to providing progressive and compassionate care at all ages and stages of a woman’s life. A few of the vast services we offer include adolescent care, annual well-woman care, contraception, infertility, pre-conception counseling, routine and high-risk maternity care, 4-D ultrasound, treatment of hormone imbalances and menopausal disorders, weight loss, cancer screening, minimally-invasive gynecological surgery, robotic surgery, treatment for bladder incontinence and pelvic organ reconstruction surgeries. • Bay Area Physicians for Women 3715 Dauphin Street Suite 3B, Mobile (251) 344-5900, bayareaobgyn.com Dr. Danillo V. Herrera, Dr. Ian H. Thorneycroft (OB and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility), Dr. Erin Saucier, Dr. C. Brook Lenz, Dr. John Val-Gallas At Bay Area Physicians for Women, your health care is our primary concern. We’ll put you at ease with personal treatment from our physicians and nurses. We are committed to the wellbeing of our patients and are highly experienced in providing up-to-date health care for women of all ages. Rest assured that you will feel at home at Bay Area Physicians for Women, knowing that you are receiving the best in obstetric and gynecologic medicine. • Center for Reproductive Medicine Mobile Infirmary Medical Center 3 Mobile Infirmary Circle, Suite 213, Mobile (251) 438-4200; www.infertilityalabama.com Dr.George Koulianos, Dr. George B. Inge Established in Mobile, Alabama, in 1993, we are the largest comprehensive reproductive medicine program in the region and one of the few with full-time embryologists and our own certified embryology laboratory. We offer patients a full spectrum of infertility and genetic diagnosis and treatment ranging from ovulation induction to in-vitro fertilization (IVF), as well as prenatal genetic diagnosis, egg donation and cryopreservation with special facilities for cancer patients. We utilize the most appropriate, least expensive and least invasive treatment for each patient. • Center for Women’s Health 1610 Center Street, Suite C, Mobile (251) 415-1496, www.usawomenshealth.com Blending the best of private practice with the resources and expertise found in academic medicine, the USA Center for Women’s Health provides patients with the very best care in a customer-friendly environment. • Greater Mobile Physicians for Women PC 1155 Hillcrest Rd, Mobile (251) 479-0058; www.greatermobilephysicians.com Dr. Ronald Clarke, Dr. Royshanda Smith Obstetrics & Gynecology Complete women’s health care from adolescents to adults www.mobilebayparents.com

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• Mobile OB/GYN, P.C. 6701 Airport Blvd., Suite B-321, Mobile (251) 633-0793, http://www.mobileobgyn.com Dr. Phillip Madonia, Dr. Kirby J. Plessala, Dr. Shawn J. Kleinpeter, Dr. Robert A. Wood, Dr. Julie G. Grinstead, Dr. Brandi Trammell, Dr. Hope McLean, M.D. For more than 26 the physicians and staff at Mobile Ob-Gyn, P.C. have been caring for Mobile area women and their families. From adolescence to adulthood, through childbearing years, into menopause, and beyond, we offer the services that meet your needs. The physicians of Mobile Ob-Gyn, P.C. have unique qualifications that blend together to offer a cohesive approach to patient care. They voluntarily take the American College of Ob-Gyn board re-certification each year, strive to stay abreast of new developments in their field, and are committed to informing patients about women’s healthcare issues through regular educational seminars. Understanding the value of communication, they take the time to listen to their patients. As a result, they are able to offer the highest level of medical knowledge. Devoted to their families, our physicians realize the importance of family relationships and how they relate to healthcare.

Weʼre here for the few they canʼt.

• Mobile Bay OB-GYN Center 3 Mobile Infirmary Circle, Mobile (251) 435-7900 Suite 201 Dr. J. Randy Bentley, Dr. Lawrence Carpenter, Dr. Patton Morrison-Barton, Dr. Jennifer Cunningham, Dr. Amy M. McCoy Suite 201A Dr. David Carpenter Suite 201B Dr. Richard Otts Our physicians and staff are sincerely interested in providing you with the finest medical care possible in an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding. Your good health is our highest priority! As your health partner, we encourage you to share your concerns with us and let us know how we can better serve our patients. Some of the services offered are 4-D ultrasound, Bone density screening, Robotic Surgery, surgical procedures and more. • Mobile Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Center PC Dr. Shannon Gilmore 6332 Piccadilly Square Drive, Mobile (251) 461-9914, www.shannongilmore.net Dr. Shannon M. Gilmore, M.D. and her staff offer health care services for women in Mobile, Alabama and throughout the Gulf Coast. While our specialty lies in female reproductive medicine and fertility, we are available to service all your gynecologic needs in a professional, honest and compassionate manner. Our practice treats women of all ages. We treat menstrual irregularities, hormone imbalances, endometriosis, urinary incontinence, pelvic prolapse and obesity. We also offer minimally invasive surgery and diagnosis and treat infertility.

Giving hope to parents and providing care to children is what we’ve done for over 100 years. Our nationally ranked healthcare team treated children from 42 states and 4 foreign countries just last year. Children’s of Alabama is recognized locally and around the world as providing a level of care that presents children with a much brighter future. 1600 7T H AV E N U E S O U T H B I R M I N G H A M , A L 35233 (205) 638-9100

ChildrensAL.org

• Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates 3 Mobile Infirmary Circle, Suite 401, Mobile (251) 435-7800 39

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Dr. Max Rogers IV, Dr. Helen H. Rogers, Dr. John M. Ives Jr., Dr. Ted N. Catranis Obstetrics & Gynecology The physicians at Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates of Mobile focus on providing compassionate OBGYN healthcare to the women of Mobile, AL and surrounding areas. From childbirth to menopause, you’ll find individualized care from our doctors and staff. We specialize in routine and high risk obstetrics to help you build your family. Our minimally invasive services in gynecology are the best in the area. We offer the newest technologies and services to our patients. We are dedicated to providing you with a positive and healing experience. • Ringhoffer OB/GYN 3715 Dauphin Street Suite 6E, Mobile (251) 344-3233; www.ringhofferobgyn.com Dr. Carolyn Ringhoffer We provide complete prenatal care every step of the way, as well as high rick obstetrics. Our office is equipped to provide high quality 4-D ultrasounds and first trimester screenings. We make a special effort to have appointments available for our OB patients. • Springhill Center for Women’s Health 3715 Dauphin Street, Suite 4A, Mobile (251) 410-3890 www.springhillmedicalcenter.com/find-a-doctor/ springhill-center-for-women-s-health.aspx Dr. Timothy Hughes Springhill Center for Women’s Health provides a traditional and innovative approach to women’s health care by combining obstetrics, gynecology, and cosmetics to fulfill patients’ needs medically and personally. We offer the best possible medical care to each patient so that you will feel comfortable and secure. • Woman’s Choice 6701 Airport Blvd Suite A209, Mobile (251) 633-3607; www.awomanschoice.biz Dr. Felicia Beth Stella High/Low Risk Obstetrics, Adult/Adolescent Gynecology, Menopausal Management, Female Incontinence Evaluation, Infertility, Laparoscopic Surgery

PEDIATRIC HEALTHCARE Children’s Medical Group

Airport Office 3920 Airport Boulevard, Mobile (251) 342-3810, www.cmgdoctors.com Dr. Jennifer G. Adair, M.D., Dr. Faye D. Roberts, M.D., Dr. Lisa H. McDonough, M.D., Dr. Matthew E. Cepeda, M.D., & Dr. Michael E. Little, Jr., D.O. Providence Office 610 Providence Park Drive, Suite 201, Mobile (251) 639-1300 Dr. Catherine W. Huettemann, M.D., Dr. Deborah A. Kassner, M.D., Dr. Elizabeth S. Weinacker, M.D., Dr. Karen I. Calametti, M.D., Dr. Kenneth Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

C. Castor, M.D. & Dr. Richard E. Huettemann, M.D.

University of South Alabama Pediatric

Children’s Medical Center (General Pediatrics) 1504 Spring Hill Avenue, Suite 1600, Mobile (251) 434-3915 • Blancher & Stadther 820 University Blvd, Suite 1B, Mobile (251) 342-8900 Dr. Madeline Blancher, MD, Dr. Joseph L. Stadther, MD • Gulf Coast Pediatrics 5675 Three Notch Road, Suite C, Mobile (251) 445-4440; www.gulfcoastpediatrics.com Dr. Michelle Naman, Hilary G. Seay, CPNP • Just Kidz Medical, LLC 5466 Old Shell Rd, Mobile (251) 382-1878 Dr. Awan Farida N. MD • Mobile Pediatric Clinic 32 Tacon Street Suite A, Mobile (251) 706-8170, www.mobilepeds.com Dr. Katherine L. Savells, M.D. FAAP, Dr. Norma D. Mobley, M.D. • Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, P.C. 3290 Dauphin Street, Mobile (251) 435-5437; infirmarypediatrics.com Dr. Debra Gardner, Dr. James Harrell, Dr. Mary Wells • Pediatric Associates of Mobile 3719 Dauphin St Suite 102, Mobile (251) 344-1502, www.pediatricassociatesofmobile.com Dr. George W. Hall, M.D., Dr. Robin C. McNair, M.D., Dr. John R. Sands, M.D., Dr. Alfred L. Shearer, M.D., Dr. Katherine Nobles Spadafora, M.D. & Dr. Nancy O. Wood, M.D. • Pediatric Partners of Mobile 1605 University Boulevard, Mobile (251) 660-9393 Dr. Dwight Yoder, M.D. • Primecare Pediatrics 5220 Overlook Rd, Mobile (251) 344-7044 Dr. Norma D Mobley • Springhill Pediatrics 4300 Old Shell Road #A Mobile (251) 342-9928 Dr. Donald S Farquhar, M.D. • Dr. Jack Thompson Pediatrics 1084 Industrial Pkwy, Saraland (251) 675-3594 40

• University of South Alabama Midtown Pediatrics 1504 Springhill Avenue, Suite 1430, Mobile (251) 434-3917 Kari Bradham, M.D.,Ladonna Crews, M.D.,Katrina Roberson-Trammell, M.D.,Melissa Huff, N.P.

CHILDBIRTH CLASSES • USA University of South Alabama Children’s & Women’s Hospital 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. Preparing for Childbirth - The expectant mother and her support person (coach) can attend the allday Saturday class.(offered every other month, call for schedule) 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: $30.00. You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building. Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1685. 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. Childbirth in a Nutshell - This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets 1st Tuesday of every other month, from 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building. Fee: $15 Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1685. 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. 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 problemsolving. Class meets 2nd Thursday from 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm. Class will meet in the d CWEB2 classroom. Fee: $5.00. Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1685. 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. • Mobile Infirmary For information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, call the childbirth education office at 251435-2000. The Gift of Motherhood eLearning Childbirth Education Program for Infirmary Health. This is an educational program that will build your knowledge www.mobilebayparents.com

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in the areas of pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and adjustment to parenting. This program will help you gain the confidence to make the best decisions for you and your baby. We hope that the information will be a valuable resource and help empower you as a new mother. www.giftofmotherhood.com. Classes for mother-to-be include: •Preparation for childbirth.•Birthing basics. •Sibling celebration. •Breastfeeding Education •Preparation for cesarean birth. •Vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC). •Preparation for natural childbirth. •Newborn care•Infant CPR. 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. Birthing Basics - This course is for parents who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. This four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes the same birthing information and tour as Preparation for Childbirth, but not postpartum or newborn information. Sibling Celebration - Children learn about becoming a big brother or sister during this special class. Children of all ages practice holding a newborn and learn tips on keeping the baby safe. A children’s tour of the maternity area is included in this class. Activities and education are based on the ages of the children in the class. Breastfeeding Education - A complete class about breastfeeding which offers information and encouragement to expectant mothers who plan to breast-feed or who are undecided and want to know more. Dads are welcome to attend. The class includes instructions for getting started and tips for working moms. Sandy Wallace, R.N., certified lactation consultant 251-435-2525. Preparation for Cesarean- This hour-long class prepares couples who have a high probability for or have planned a Cesarean birth. Whether or not it’s your first Caesarean, this one-hour private session with a tour helps enhance your experience. This session includes preparation, recovery tips, and what to expect. Call to schedule an appointment. Preparation for Natural Childbirth - This session prepares women who choose natural childbirth with a variety of tips and techniques for working through labor. It’s also a good choice for women who wish to minimize medication use. Infant CPR - This is a one-time class on dealing with a potential emergency situation involving a baby under 1 year of age. For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, call the childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000. • Providence Hospital www.providencehospital.org/centers_of_excellence/womens_services_classes.php Providence Hospital is pleased to offer a variety of classes on childbirth. To register for all classes contact Sharonda Harris (251) 633-1097 or email sharonda.harris@providencehospital.org. All classes are held in Conference Room 1 just off the main hospital lobby by the gift shop. Payment is made at the time of the class, cash (exact change) or check and covers mom & coach. Childbirth Class - 4-Week Series The class covers: pre-labor signs, stages of labor, pain perception, epidural, cesarean delivery, postpartum, infant care, birth films, and relaxation &

breathing techniques. This Tuesday night class meets once a week for 4 consecutive weeks from 6:30 – 9:00 pm. Cost is $50/couple ($75 if not delivering at Providence). Saturday Childbirth Series - The one time class is a condensed version of the 4-week childbirth series, and is not geared toward moms wanting a non-medicated delivery. This accelerated Saturday class meets from 9:00am – 2:30 pm. Cost is $50/ couple ($75 if not delivering at Providence). Lunch is provided. Evening Breastfeeding Classes - This one time class will give all the basic techniques and practical skills for breastfeeding, pumping, and going back to work. Coaches are encouraged to come. This Monday night class meets from 6:30 – 9:00 pm. Cost is $25/couple ($35 if not delivering at Providence). • Springhill Medical Center Please visit www.springhillmedicalcenter.com for more information on classes. Childbirth Preparation Classes - These classes cover all aspects of the labor, delivery, and postpartum experience. We offer both a series of four weekly classes, offered on either Mondays. The four class series covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. Childbirth Preparation Class – Accelerated Class This class meets on Saturday from 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units. Free if delivering at SMC. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. Your Amazing Newborn - Learn the basics of newborn care, including car seat safety, and infant massage. Call 340-7769 early to preregister. Infant CPR - Learn this potentially life-saving technique while you are pregnant or soon after your baby’s birth. Covers infant CPR and choking. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register Breastfeeding Class - Benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, going back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register. Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings - 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.

BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES Baby Talk

29892 Woodrow Lane Suite 400, Daphne TKR Centre across from Eastern Shore Center 251-298-TALK (8255); babytalkes@gmail.com Your one stop shop for all things baby! We carry Medela breast pumps and can file your insurance for BCBS of Alabama. We also offer personal service for bra fitting and nursing supplies, Go-Lacta to increase your milk supply and lactation consultant on staff. We also carry Grovia and Bum Genius cloth diapers, Magnificent Baby clothing with no snaps and no zippers, Kissy-Kissy, Aden and Anais, Melissa & Doug, Find us on Facebook! 41

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ten him

• Breast Pump/Supplies American Home Patient (251) 380-5210 Children’s and Women’s USA Gift Shop (251) 415-1543 Mobile Infirmary (251) 435-2525 Mobile County Health Dept. (251) 690-8906 Springhill Medical Supply (251) 342-3023 Springhill Memorial Hospital Pharmacy (251) 460-3870 Siegel’s Baby Room (251) 342-9469 • Children’s and Women’s Hospital Classes, office visits and phone consultations are available Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. It’s absolutely free! Call 415-1285. • International Board of Lactation Consultants Large online directory of lactation consultants and local support resources for breastfeeding mothers. www.ilca.org La Leche League of Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana- Online information on breastfeeding, phone help from accredited leaders, local support, lactation consultant directories, online forums, parenting

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

resource libraries and much more. www.lllalmsla.org La Leche League (International) Helping mothers worldwide to breastfeed through mother-to-mother support, encouragement, information, and education, and to promote a better understanding of breastfeeding as an important element in the healthy development of the baby and mother. www.llli.org www. breastfeeding.com - A wealth of information about breastfeeding. Includes online directory of lactation consultants, midwives, doulas, and childbirth educators in your area. • Mobile Infirmary Medical Center (251) 435-2525 Ina Hall, RN, IBCLC Sandy Wallace, RN, IBCLC Melissa Blevins, RN, IBCLC • Providence Hospital (251) 633-1749 Marcia Ranew, RN, BS, CCE, IBCLC Tammy Doherty, RN, IBCLC Ann Slaughter, RN, IBCLC • Springhill Memorial Hospital 251-460-5207 Eileen Lenoir, IBCLC • Prenatal Breastfeeding Classes Mobile County Health Dept.

(251) 690-8906 Springhill Memorial Hospital (251) 460-5207 Providence Hospital (251) 633-1749 Mobile Infirmary (251) 435-2525 Children’s and Women’s Hospital (251) 415-1069

INFANT CLASSES/ ACTIVITIES • Gulf Coast Swimfants-  Infant Swimming Resource (IRS) Pamela McPherson, Instructor 251-391-4799; Email: p.mcpherson@infantswim.com; www.swimfants.com or www. infantswim.com  ISR goes beyond traditional swimming instruction by teaching infants aged 6 months – to children 6 years-old ISR Self-Rescue™ them techniques designed to help them survive should they reach the water alone. With more than 40-years of research and development behind ISR’s Self-Rescue Program, ISR teaches each child survival skills in conjunction with basic swimming lessons that give them the compe-

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tence required to safely enjoy the water. Empower your child by enrolling him or her in ISR’s Self-Rescue Program…. “The Sooner, The Safer”. • Kindermusik Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile (251) 342-0462, www.kindermusikatchristunited.com Swing, sway, laugh & play! Classes from 3 months – 2nd grade. Children learn and grow through play, with other children, teachers, and you. Led by our skilled educators, Kindermusik’s research based programs will enhance your child’s development and instill a lifelong love of music. • Library Story Time Libraries throughout Mobile County offer free story time sessions for parents and their babies. Parents can participate in the “Mother Goose” story times if they have children who are newborns up to 15 months old. Parents can also choose to attend the “Family Time” story sessions with their children. During the story-time period, a librarian will read stories to the children and teach them songs. Please visit www.mplonline.org for times and locations. • Sunshine Sue’s 1108 Dauphin Street, Mobile (251) 421-2434; www.sunshinesuesplaygarden.com Baby Sign Language (ages 6 months-18months) and Mommy and Me Classes (ages0-4) are in three Month Sessions, taught all year long. Kindermusik (0-7 years). Visit our website for sign up information. • The Watermelon Patch 6417 Hillcrest Park Court, Mobile (251) 633-3288; www.thewmpatch.com A planned play program for children Birth to 12 years of age. It offers a series of parent/child classes devoted to the physical, emotional and social development of children. Weekly classes are offered with activities designed to improve balance, coordination and other sensory stimuli while reinforcing good social skills in a group play environment. The Watermelon Patch also offers a very important link to other parents with children of the same age. MBP

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Round-The-Clock Sleep Don’t be surprised if life with a new baby is a round-theclock snoozefest (for the baby, at least). New parents are often shocked by how much new babies sleep, says Roslinde M. Collins, M.D., sleep specialist at Vermont’s Rutland Regional Medical Center. “During the first month of life, newborns need a significant amount of sleep, up to 18 hours a day,” she says. “But lots of parents wonder if something is wrong when their baby sleeps that much.”

Make Some Noise

Baffled by your new baby’s sleep patterns? Wondering when you’ll get some sleep yourself? Here’s help. by Malia Jacobson Tiny, warm, and sweet-smelling, newborns are undeniably adorable. Unfortunately, these perfect little bundles don’t come with instruction manuals. Along with the many surprises of early parenthood, many new parents find themselves puzzling over their baby’s sleep patterns. Is she sleeping too much? Is it normal for him to feed so much at night? Why are her naps so short? If your baby doesn’t seem to fit the mold of a peacefully sleeping newborn,

don’t fret: Your little one is one-of-a-kind, and so are his sleep habits. From their first days of life, babies have individualized sleep patterns. Some restful newborns snooze contentedly with no problems, sleep for long stretches at night, and take predicable (if not regular) naps throughout the day. Many other babies present their parents with some significant sleep challenges. Contrary to popular belief, newborns don’t just magically “sleep when they need to sleep.” And brand-new parents are usually just getting to know their new family member, and haven’t yet figured out their baby’s unique sleep needs or sleep cues. But supporting healthy sleep starts early, so read on for tips on helping your new little one sleep well (so you can catch a few zzzs, too!).

In the womb, your child drifted off to sleep surrounded by the whoosh of your pumping blood, the thumping of your beating heart, and the rumbling of your stomach. After being soothed by a comforting blanket of noise for nine months, new babies often find life outside the womb strangely quiet, says Harvey Karp, M.D., pediatrician and bestselling author of The Happiest Baby On the Block. He recommends high-quality white noise to comfort newborns and help support longer sleep periods. “White noise is like an audible teddy bear—it’s very soothing to babies,” he says.

Sleeping Beauty When your sleepy little one finally opens her eyes, grab your camera—she’ll be snoozing again before you know it. In the first month of life, most newborns can only tolerate being awake for 45 minutes to an hour at a time. An age-appropriate daily routine consists of feedings, diaper changings, short periods of playtime, and then being put back down to sleep. By three months of age, many babies can

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tolerate staying awake for an hour and a half at a stretch.

Unschedule Newborns don’t have a predictable nap schedule until three to four months of age when regular nap patterns begin to emerge. Until then, don’t fret about short naps. Just wake your child from any nap longer than two to three hours, to protect nighttime sleep.

Nightowl Nudge In the early weeks of life, your baby’s circadian rhythm begins to develop. This “body clock” helps her organize her sleep patterns, resulting in more daytime wakefulness and sleepiness at night. This rhythm doesn’t fall into place until the second month of life. Until then, many babies swap day for night, preferring to snooze all day and play all night and leaving new parents knackered. To help babies learn that night is for sleeping, seek out plenty of bright light during the day and avoid nighttime light exposure, says Collins. This allows your baby’s brain to produce adequate melatonin during nighttime hours. “Melatonin is the hormone that tells our brains when we should be sleeping, and it’s suppressed during light exposure,” she notes. That means saying no to nightlights, installing blackout curtains, and using a very dim light for nighttime feedings and diaper changes.

Sign Language Like older children, newborns give signs that they’re ready for sleep. But for new babies, sleep cues are often subtle. Appearing glassy-eyed and “burrowing” into your chest are signs that some babies are ready to be put down for sleep. Once your baby begins displaying these sleepy signs, move swiftly to get him down to sleep before overtiredness (and crankiness) sets in.

Winding Down You can help set the stage for peaceful bedtimes in the future by establishing a simple winddown routine. Performing the same sequence of events in the same order before naptime and bedtime helps

your baby understand that sleep is near. A story, quiet time in a crib or bassinet, a feeding, and swaddling can all play a part in your child’s sleepy-time routine.

Support Independent Sleep Parents often believe that newborns need to be rocked or nursed to sleep, but nursing and rocking are learned habits—in the womb, your baby drifted off to sleep without your help. It’s perfectly fine to nurse or rock a new baby to sleep, but if you’d like your child to learn to sleep independently, take small steps to start now. 45

Put your baby down to sleep when he appears tired and try to allow him to fall asleep unassisted. Your kiddo may surprise you by revealing that he can fall asleep independently, at least some of the time. Allowing him to do so whenever possible is the key to healthy sleep habits through babyhood, toddlerhood and beyond. MBP Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health journalist and sleep expert. Her latest book is Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades.

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Cottage Hill Baptist

4255 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile (251) 660-2422; www.cottagehill.org June 16- 20; 9:00am-12:00pm Completed K4-8th Grade “Living Inside Out”

Dauphin Way Baptist

3661 Dauphin Street, Mobile (251) 342-3456; www.dwbc.org June 9 –13; 9:00am-12:00pm Completed K-4 thru 6th grade “Agency D-3” Register online at our website or at the church.

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Dauphin Way UMC

Vacation Bible Schools Ashland Place UMC

15 Wisteria Avenue, Mobile (251) 478-6356; www.apumc.com June 16-20; 9:00am – 12:00pm “Weird Animals” Register on the church website or call the church.

Azalea Hills Christian Church 9191 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile (251) 633-6161 June 16-19; 9:00am – 11:00am Ages K3 - 6th grade “God’s Love on SonTreasure Island” To register or for more information, please contact our church office 633-6161.

Christ Church Cathedral 115 S. Conception Street, Mobile (251) 438-1822 www.christchurchcathedralmobile.org June 10 – June 12; 9:00am-12:00pm “Wilderness Escape”

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

To register or volunteer—Sign up on-line at www.groupvbspro.com/vbs/hl.christchurchcath.

Christ United Methodist

6101 Grelot Road, Mobile (251) 342-0462; www.cumcchildren.com/vbs2014 June 16- 20; 9:00am-12:00pm Ages K3-5th grade “Wilderness Escape: Where God Guides and Provides” Register online at cumcchildren.com/vbs2014. For more information email Ashley Walker at ashley@christumcmobile.com.

Corpus Christi Catholic School 6300 McKenna Drive, Mobile (251) 342-5474; www.corpuschristiparish.com June 16-20; 8:45am -12:00pm Children entering Kindergarten - 5th grade “Weird Animals” Contact CCD@corpuschristiparish.com for more information. 46

1507 Dauphin St., Mobile (251) 471-1511; www.dauphinwayumc.org June 16- 20; 8:45am -12:00pm Age 4- completed 5th grade

First Baptist Tillmans Corner

5660 Three Notch Road, Mobile (251) 661-0114; www.fbtc.org June 16-June 20, 8am-12pm; VBS Musical & Family Night June 22 6:00pm “Agency D3”

Government Street Baptist

3401 Government Blvd, Mobile (251) 660-7444; www.governmentstreet.org June 9-13; 8:30am-11:30am Grades completed K4-5th “Weird Animals” Go to www.governmentstreet.org to pre-register online!

Government St Presbyterian

300 Government Street, Mobile (251) 432-1749; www.gspcmobile.org June 16 –20; 8:30am-12:30pm, Friday Splash Day at Baytreat 11am-2pm “Gangway to Galilee Amazing Grace Adventures”

Grace Community Church

7120 Airport Blvd, Mobile (251) 345-3303; www.gracemobile.org June 16 – June 20 Ages 5-5th grade Please check our website for more information.

Knollwood Church

1501 Knollwood Drive, Mobile (251) 661-8383; www.knollwoodchurch.net July 14 - 18 Completed K4 - 5th grade “God’s Workshop of Wonders”

Lighthouse Baptist Church 6335 Swedetown Rd, Theodore (251) 653-6542; www.lbctheodore.com June 2- 5; 6:00pm-8:00pm Ages 4-12

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Little Flower Catholic Church 2053 Government St., Mobile 251-478-3381, www.littleflower.cc June 2- June 6; Ages 3 – 8th Grade. “Son Treasure Island”

Oak Park Church

www.stlukesepiscopalmobile.org June 9 – 13; 8:00am-12:00pm Ages K5 through 5 grade “Workshop of Wonders” Registration forms will be on the website or can be picked up in the church office.

St. Mark UMC

3321 Sollie Road, Mobile (251) 633-6110; www.oakparkministries.com July 22- 25; 8:30am-12:00pm “Weird Animals: Where Jesus’ Love is One of a Kind”

439 Azalea Road, Mobile (251) 342-5861; www.stmarkmobile.com July 14 –18; 9:00pm-12:00pm Ages 4 - 5th grade.

Regency Church of Christ

St. Mary Catholic Parish

501 S. University Blvd, Mobile (251) 345-8050, www.regencycc.org July 13 –16

St. Dominics Catholic Church

4156 Burma Road, Mobile (251) 661-5130; www.stdominicmobile.org June 9 – 13; 8:45a.m - 12:00p.m K3- 5th grade “Weird Animals – Where Jesus’ Love Is One Of A Kind” Registration is $25 per participant, $75 max per family. For more information contact Brenda Christian at 661-5130 or visit our website.

St. Lukes Episcopal Church 1050 Azalea Rd., Mobile (251) 666-2990;

3704 Springhill Avenue, Mobile (251) 342-9221, www.stignatiusmobile.org June 16-June 20, 9:00am-12:00pm Ages PreK-4th grade “Kids of Kingdom” Cost is $30 for the first child and $15 for each additional child.

Saraland UMC

107 N. Lafayette Street, Mobile (251) 432-8679, www.stmarymobile.org June 9- 12; 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: K-5th grade The cost is $20 for early registration; by May 23 and includes a t-shirt, or $25 after May 23 and no guarantee of a t-shirt. For registration or questions, contact Ashley Thompson at thomp1999@att.net or call the parish office at (251) 432-8678, ext. 1.

St. Pauls Episcopal

St. Ignatius Catholic Church

4051 Old Shell Road, Mobile (251) 342-8521; www.stpaulschurchmobile.net July 21 – July 24; evenings All Ages: Children and Adults More details to come: check our website or call for more information.

415 McKeough Ave., Saraland (251) 675-2728; www.saralandumc.org July 21 – July 25; 9:00am-12:00pm Ages 2 – 5th grade “Workshop of Wonders Imagine and Build with God” Registration Info: Check our website for registration info about a month prior to the event, or children can register on arrival.

Shiloh Baptist

717 Cleveland Rd., Saraland 251-675-3587, www.shilohbc.com June 6 - 8; Grades K5 - 6TH “Amazing Race Season 3” We will be divided into teams where we will learn 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.

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Snow Road First Baptist

2370 Snow Road North, Semmes 251-649-7722, www.srfbc.com July 21-July 25; 6:00pm-8:30pm Light supper served every evening Ages 3 – 12. This year’s theme is “Agency D3” Kick-Off Event and Registration: Saturday 7/19 10am-12pm. Bring your swimsuits and towels! We will have a water inflatable, food, and games! A Little Dinner Will Be Served Every Night. Family Day will be Sunday 7/27 @10:45. For registration or any questions please contact Carolina Burkholder, 251-725-3068 or email carolinaoburkholder4@gmail.com.

Snow Road Missionary Baptist

809 Snow Road N, Mobile (251) 649-0030; snowroadbaptistchurch.com June 9 –13; 9:00am-12:00pm “Cross Canyon Trail” For Children ages 4 yrs. thru 12th Grade Register at the church on June 9 at 8:30 am or for preregistration, please E-Mail the following information to snowroadbaptistchurch@yahoo. com. (Child’s Name, Child’s age, Parent’s Name Address and Phone Number)

Spring Hill Baptist

Block Party/VBS kickoff is Saturday, June 7. Plan on joining us and bringing your friends! It’s a jungle out there! “Jungle Safari” Ages 4K – 6th grade

Spring Hill Presbyterian 10 Westminster Way, Mobile (251) 342-1550, www.shpc.us June 9 –14, 9:00am-11:30am (kids), Thursday – 5:00-7:30 pm (parents and kids) Age 4- Grade 5 “Wilderness Escape Where God Guides & Provides” Online registration will begin Sunday, April 27. Watch the church website www.shpc.us for details.

Westminster Presbyterian

2921 Airport Blvd., Mobile (251) 471-5451 June 23- 26; 9:00am-12:30pm Ages: K to grade 5 “Workshop of Wonders” For information, please call 471-5451 or email wpcmobile@comcast.net.

West Mobile Baptist 7501 Airport Boulevard, Mobile (251) 776-6939; www.westmobilebaptist.org June 16 - 20, 6:00pm-8:30pm Ages: 4-Grade 6 “Agency D3”

Westwood Baptist Church 1101 Snow Road South, Mobile (251) 633-6280 www.westwoodbaptistmobile.com June 16-June 20; 9:00am-12:00pm

Woodridge Baptist Church 2700 Schillinger Rd S., Mobile (251) 633-6000; www.woodridgebc.com July 14-July 18; 8:30am-12:00pm For ages: entering Kindergarten thru entering 6th grade “Kingdom Rock” Register online at woodridgebc.com.

University Church of Christ

2 McGregor Ave S., Mobile (251) 342-5320; www.shbc.cc June 8- 11, 5:30pm – 8:00pm (A light supper will be served each evening) , Neighborhood

5651 Zeigler Blvd, Mobile (251) 344-2366 June 5 –8 “Creation”

Email your VBS to lynn@mobilebayparents. com for our next issue!

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A Page in a Book by Gerry Paige Smith

Good Little Books It’s a universal fact that all kids start out small. Of course they grow, some faster than others, some more than others. But while they are still little kids…it’s a big world they live in. Sometimes bigness can loom large, intimidating the small. Big – in the form of parents and other adults - can also be an instinctive destination for comfort and protection. But kids should know that being little comes with a power and importance of its own, too. The following titles feature relationships between big and little, with sweet perspectives that make kids’ time as a ‘little’, a plus on their journey to big.

Little Cub

by Oliver Dunrea (Penguin / Philomel) A little cub lives alone in the big forest. He doesn’t really like the dark nights. He’s hungry, too. The little cub sees fish, but can’t catch them; smells honey in the tree, but can’t get to it. Mostly, little cub doesn’t like being alone. In the same forest is a big grizzled old bear. He catches fish and collects honey, but doesn’t like eating dinner for one. He doesn’t like the dark much either. Old bears get lonely, too. When their paths cross, these two very different bears discover that each has something the other needs to solve their problems. Simple sentences and softly colored pencil and gouache drawings warm up this sweet story of how the biggest and the littlest often need each other to become whole.

The King of the Little Things

by Bill Lepp, Illustrated by David T. Wensel (Peachtree) In this kingdom full of kings, all striving to be the biggest monarchs with the most money and the biggest armies, there was also a king of all the little things. While the biggest kings grew their power and wealth, the King of Little Things poured his love and attention into the smallest treasures of the realm, things like buttons, lamp wicks, ants and keys. When the biggest king of all defeated the other rulers bringing the entire world under his power, all that remained was to conquer the little things. But vast armies can be brought low by little things - like raindrops in the gunpowder, chiggers in their underpants and mealworms in the bread. As the great king seeks to dominate the small, he discovers to his dismay just how vital the little things are to making all the big things work. This clash of kings, of great and small, is just the right size of wonderful for little readers!

Little Burro

by Jim Arnosky (Penguin / G.P. Putnam’s Sons) Being the only little one in her band of burros can be trying for Little Burro. She loves their warm and cozy hillside home. It’s her favorite place, with sweet cactus and cool breezes in the day. So when her band begins to leave her home, she digs in her heels, brays loudly and refuses to go. But her mother’s gentle guidance compels her to join their treacherous and dry journey. At the end of the trail Little Burro is delighted to see a lake for the first time! She frolics, splashes and drinks the cool water until the sun begins to set. When it’s time to return to their hillside home, Little Burro digs in her heels, brays loudly and refuses to go. But as the big burros depart, she finally joins them on their journey homeward. A testament to little ones’ instinctual resistance to change, their loyalty to favorite things and the leaps forward kids take as they try something new, Little Burro celebrates the little steps that lead to the bigger world.

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

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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. 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. 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 251-460-2727 * 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. La Leche League Mobile Bay Area Breastfeeding support meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. and the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader. 251-689-2085, amandaLLLmobile@yahoo. com, meghanLLL@yahoo.com, or michelleLLLmobile@ yahoo.com. Facebook: La Leche League Mobile Bay Area.

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

April/May2014

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Support Group Place: Mitchell Cancer Institute, Conference Room B, 3rd Tuesday of every Month 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. 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. Parent-Child Worship Service Each Wednesday in January and February, Dauphin Way United Methodist Church will offer a new Parent-Child Worship Service from 9:15-10:00 a.m. (room E207) for parents and their children ages birth to four-years-old. Relaxed and filled with music, prayer, a Bible story and coloring, this new program is a wonderful opportunity to worship with your precious little ones. The program will be short, and then kids can play while parents enjoy social time. Contact Dauphin Way UMC at 251-471-1511 for more information. Dauphin Way UMC is located at 1507 Dauphin Street, Mobile. The Family Center • Nurturing Parenting (Mobile) course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-wk rotating series. Held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Mobile, 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100. Call 251-479-5700 to register. • Father Central Classes (listed below) in Mobile and Daphne are completely free. Father Central classes offer you free Wal-mart giftcards up to $150, free supper, free gas cards or bus passes, free parent coaching and childcare during class is free! All class materials are free and a certificate of completion is awarded. Participants who refer a friend to a Father Central program receive a $10 giftcard! Must call to schedule advance intake appointment. www.familycentermobile.org. • Father Central of Mobile Classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. • Together We Can: Helping Everyone Cope With Divorce. Mondays, 8 weeks. $50 Wal-mart giftcard upon completion. Begin any Monday. • Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men. Tuesdays, 12 weeks. $75 Wal-mart giftcard upon completion. • Chill Skills. Thursdays, 4 weeks. $25 Wal-mart giftcard upon completion. Topics are: Stress, Anger Management & Acceptance, Relaxation; Emotional Intelligence & Techniques; Defining, Responding To & Learning from Anger; Defining Abuse & Learning to Cope & Communicate. 251-479-5700 to get started in Father Central, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Mobile, 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100. www.familycentermobile.org or www. Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile 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: $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.

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Family Calendar USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1069. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Advanced payment required to secure your reservation. If you are expecting multiples or having a c-section, please call for additional class information. • Preparing for Childbirth All-day Saturday class for the expectant mother and her support person (coach). Topics include: pregnancy changes, labor, role of the support coach, relaxation and breathing techniques, vaginal and cesarean births, postpartum care, and a tour of the maternity areas. Fee per couple: $30. You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Every other month, 9-2. • Childbirth in a Nutshell This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets first Tuesday every other month from 6:30-9 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Fee per couple: $15. • Breastfeeding This one-night class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Topics include advantages, myths and facts, getting started, correct positioning, latching on, engorgement, returning to work and problem-solving. Class meets second Thursday from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital Fee: $5. Registration Information: Credit card payments are accepted by calling 415-1685. Mail payments for classes to: University of South Alabama, Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Education Department, 1700 Center St., Mobile, AL 36604.

Saturday, April 19

Easter in the Squares The streets and squares of Downtown Mobile will be filled with Easter eggs, an Easter parade and the Easter Bunny for the annual Easter in the Squares event. Kick off this rite of spring with an Easter Egg Hunt in Bienville Square, then make an Easter bonnet for the parade that ends at Cathedral Square. Prizes will be awarded for the most festive child, adult, stroller or wagon, and pet. The free, family fun begins at 10:00 a.m. in Bienville Square and wraps up at 1:00 two blocks away in Cathedral Square, where you’ll be able to participate in face painting, sack races and other activities. Be sure to bring a camera to capture all the action! For more information visit mydowntownmobile.com. Dauphin Island Community Egg Hunt Join the community on Dauphin Island for a good old fashion Easter egg hunt. Bring the kids and start the search. Cadillac Square, Dauphin Island 10:00 a.m. Earth Day – Mobile Bay The Gulf Coast’s largest and most fun Earth Day Celebration! Earth Friendly Exhibitors, Live Music, Art & Educational Activities for all ages, Children’s Parade for the Planet, Environmental Film Festival. 10:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. at Fairhope Pier Park. For more information, please visit www.earthdaymobilebay.org. Something Special for Saturday - Mad Hatter Un-Birthday Party! - Moorer Branch Library Calling all children, ages 4 to 7 - It’s a birthday party for everyone! The Mad Hatter from “Alice in Wonderland” will be the theme of games and crafts as we celebrate everyone’s birthday on one special day at 10:30 a.m. Registration required for groups. For more information or to register, please call 470-7770 or email mlmref@mplonline.org. “The Tempest” See April 18 for details. Easter Egg Hunt – Woodridge Baptist Church Come out and enjoy a fun morning of Easter fun for the whole community! Bring your basket and get ready for games, face painting, age-graded egg hunts

April/May2014

(Preschool and two elementary groupings) and the REAL Easter story about Jesus! This free event is open to the public. It takes place from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at WBC Family Life Center Gym at 2700 Schillinger Road South. Please visit www.woodridgebc.com for more information.

Wednesday, April 23

Pre-K Studio – Space 301 Pre-K Studio is a weekly program that allows children ages 3-5 and their parents to explore contemporary art and music. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross curriculum learning opportunities with fun projects. Classes are facilitated by trained professional educators. CLA Classroom Wednesdays, through June 11th/11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. To learn more, please contact Brennan Gibson, Education Program Manager at (251) 208-5658 or cla. gibson@cityofmobile.org. Brown Bag Bienville Spring has sprung in downtown Mobile! Come out and listen to the soothing sounds of live jazz as you lunch in Bienville Square around the historic Ketchum Fountain. Catt Sirten sets up live musicians and the City sets up tables for your enjoyment each Wednesday in the Spring from 11:30 a.m. til 1:30 p.m. To make your Brown Baggin’ easier, stop in at your favorite Bienville Square eateries and ask for the Brown Bag special. April 2-May 28.

Thursday, April 24

Thursdays at the Museum Every Thursday from 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. the museum offers free admission to all visitors. Join the Mobile Museum of art each week to experience the museum in new and exciting ways throughout the year. No reservations necessary. Please visit www. mobilemuseumofart.com to view specific details for each week. Mobile Museum of Art (4850 Museum Drive).

Friday, April 25

Springhill College – Kickin It Up Friday Soccer Camp Free Community Soccer Camp (K-8th grade), 5:156:30. Camps sessions will stress basic soccer skills, games and competitions. The focus is having fun playing and learning to play the game of soccer. All sessions will be run by members of the Women’s and Men’s Soccer teams of Spring Hill College under the direction of Christian DeVries and Tim Brooks. The coaches and players will provide a friendly, fun environment for participants. Facilities: Spring Hill College - Library Field located on the Avenue of Oaks off Old Shell Road. Preregistration encouraged - Walk up registration will be welcomed. Please visit www. shccamps.com for more information. “The Bartered Bride” Opera by Bedřich Smetana. USA Opera and Musical Theatre on Fri. & Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m. University of South Alabama, Laidlaw Recital Hall (5751 USA Dr S). Please call (251) 460-6136 or visit www. southalabama.edu/music for more information.

Saturday, April 26

Delta Woods & Water Expo Join us for the 6th Annual Delta Woods & Water Expo family day from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. FREE ADMISSION. The Delta Woods and Waters Expo, an annual event sponsored by the City of Spanish Fort and held at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, celebrates the beauty of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Featuring a variety of informative presentations, exhibitions and interactive displays by experienced outdoorsmen, professionals, educators and enthusiasts, the Delta Woods & Waters Expo includes fun and exciting hands-on demonstrations which allow attendees

to learn and practice new skills with one-on-one instruction. The mission of the Delta Woods & Waters Expo is to promote responsible and enjoyable outdoor recreational experiences through a fun and educational event. Opening Day: Spring Market on the Square 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, casseroles, pies, handcrafted goods and so much more. Stay for live music on the green! Each Saturday through July 27th. This year we will be adding organic vegetables as well. 7:30 a.m. until Noon on Cathedral Square. For more information call 208-1558. South Alabama March for Babies We’re getting ready to walk in March for Babies! It promises to be a fun day out with people who share our passion for improving the health of babies. There’ll be family teams, company teams and people walking with friends - a great feeling knowing we’re all helping real families. Join our event and walk with us to raise money for babies right here in our community! Location: Geri Moulton Children’s Park. 8 a.m. - 12. For more information, please call (251) 345-6480. Infirmary Twilight Duathlon The Infirmary’s Twilight Duathlon is from 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. and includes a 2-mile run, 10-mile bike, 2-mile run or a 2 mile fun run. Please visit www.infirmarydualthlon.racesonline.com for more information. Azalea City Bonsai Society – West Regional Branch The Azalea City Bonsai Society of Mobile is hosting a Bonsai Display at the front of the Library. Members will be available to discuss the horticulture and art of bonsai and provide educational information to the public. 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. For more information please call 208-7097. Dauphin Island Gumbo Festival & Cook-Off 5th Annual Gumbo Cook-off will take place from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Tour the island while sampling gumbo on the way. Three area locations: Downtown/Water Tower, West End Shops, Country Club. Live music, Kids activities! Visit www.dauphinislandgumbofestival.com for more information. Dauphin Island Regatta The 56th Annual Dauphin Island Race, often called the largest single-day point-to-point race in the United States, will be held on Mobile Bay. Join us for three days of sailing fun including two competitive races and a party on the island to remember. With live bands, food, drinks and excellent amenities, you’ll enjoy your stay on the Island. Come race with us! For more information, please visit www.bucyc.com/Buccaneer_ Yacht_Club/Dauphin_Island_Race.html. Questions? Call Margaret or Harvie Jordan, (251) 591-3006. Kids Studio – Center for the Living Arts Kids Studio is a free weekly program that allows children ages 6-12 to explore contemporary art and music. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross curriculum learning opportunities with fun projects. Classes are facilitated by trained professional educators. 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. in the CLA classroom (301 Conti Street). Please visit www. centreforthelivingarts.com for more information or email cla.gibson@cityofmobile.org to sign up. “The Bartered Bride” See April 25 for more information.

Sunday, April 27

Spring Garden Party – Richards DAR House Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, music, a hat contest and a cash donation wine bar from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Cost: $20. For more information, please visit www.richardsdarhouse. com. Spring Spectacular – University of Mobile Center for the Performing Arts The University of Mobile Center for Performing Arts will

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Family Calendar present “Spring Spectacular” on Sunday, at 2 or 7 p.m. at the Saraland Center for Performing Arts at Saraland High School. The event is the final major performance of the academic year for the university’s Center for Performing Arts and School of Worship Leadership. The concert showcases the breadth of the university’s School of Music, with styles ranging from jazz to contemporary Christian, classical to Celtic. Please visit www.umobile.edu for more information. 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, learn how and why man’s best friend was domesticated in, “Dogs That Changed the World.” 30945 Five Rivers Blvd, Spanish Fort. “The Bartered Bride” See April 25 for more information.

Tuesday, April 29

Spring concert: USA Symphony Band Spring concert with conductor William H. Petersen at 7:30 p.m. at the University of South Alabama, Laidlaw Recital Hall (5751 USA Dr S). Cost - General/ $8; USA faculty, staff & students, youth under 18 and senior citizens/ $5 (cash or check only). Please call (251) 460-6136 or visit www.southalabama.edu/music for more information.

Wednesday, April 30

Spring Concert: USA Woodwind Ensembles USA Woodwind Ensembles concert with director Rebecca Mindock at 7:30 p.m. at the University of South Alabama, Laidlaw Recital Hall (5751 USA Dr S). Cost - General/ $8; USA faculty, staff & students, youth under 18 and senior citizens/ $5 (cash or check only). Please call (251) 460-6136 or visit www.southalabama. edu/music for more information. Pre-K Studio – Space 301 See April 23 for details. Brown Bag Bienville See April 23 for details.

Thursday, May 1

Cocktail with the Critters Cocktails with Critters, the major fundraiser for the Dauphin Island Sea Lab Foundation will be held from 6:00 — 9:00 at Tacky Jack’s on the Causeway. As always, this will be an exciting evening overlooking Mobile Bay featuring the live music of Delta Reign, a lively silent auction, delicious hors d’oeuvres along with tasty wine and beer. Please visit www. sealabfoundation.org/cocktails_with_the_critters for more information. “The Little Mermaid Jr.” Public performances of “The Little Mermaid, Jr.” will be held May 1 @ 7 p.m., May 2 @ 7 p.m., May 3 @ 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. and May 4 @ 2 p.m. Shows take place at the Moorer Center for the Performing Arts on the St. Luke’s High School campus, 1600 University Boulevard. Call (251) 510-1808 to reserve your tickets or e-mail us at dramacamp@mindspring.com. Art21 Film Screening: Spirituality Join us from at 6:00 at Mobile Museum of Art (4850 Museum Dr). Please visit www.mobilemuseumofart. com for more information.

Friday, May 2

Under the Stars An evening of great entertainment with The Modern Eldorados, plus fabulous food, silent auction, and live auction. Proceeds benefit Baldwin County Child Advocacy Center, dba CARE House. High visibility will be given to this event in celebration of our 25th Anniversary. For the past 25 years, we have provided resources and services to child victims of abuse, their supportive family members, and the community while empowering all toward child abuse prevention. 6:30

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

April/May2014

p.m. - 11:00 p.m. at Oak Hollow Farm (14210 S. Greeno Road). Please visit www.bccarehouse.org for more information. “Cinderella - The Musical” The Playhouse-in-the-Park is proud to present an enchanting new musical fantasy based on the traditional fairy tale favorite. A cast of singers, dancers, and actors, along with exquisite scenery, costumes, and special effects, will make this an exciting event! Join Cinderella as she finds her way to the heart of Prince Charming and learns about life and true love along the way. Public performances are Fridays and Saturdays, May 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 & 17 at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays, May 4, 11, & 18 at 2:30 p.m. Please visit www.playhouseinthepark.org for more information. 2014 Gallery of Gardens Explore eight local private gardens and discover new ideas for your own at this year’s Gallery of Gardens tour! Experience a range of styles as you tour homes in Spring Hill, Oakleigh Garden District, Midtown and West Mobile. As you visit each garden, look for 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. New for 2014: two of our gardens will feature flora and fauna – ballet students will perform in outdoor garden “rooms” as visitors pass through. Tour and MarketPlace hours are 9 a.m. to 4 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. Light Up the Hill Silent Auction Cottage Hill Christian Academy Warrior Club invites you to an evening of fun, food, and fellowship as we join together to “Light up the Hill”. This silent auction event will be held Friday, May 2nd, 7 – 9 p.m. at Cottage Hill Baptist Church Atrium. Each ticket purchase enters you into a drawing for free tuition credit! Tickets are $15 and are available in the school office and at mkt. com/chca-warrior-club. All proceeds will benefit CHCA athletics. Tickets must be purchased in advance to be entered into the drawing for tuition credit. “The Little Mermaid Jr.” See May 1 for more information.

Saturday, May 3

Walk to Cure ALS Each year, The ALS Association Alabama Chapter holds fundraising events to raise awareness and funds that help provide invaluable services to people living with ALS. The Walk to Defeat ALS will take place in Mobile at the Hank Aaron Stadium at 10 a.m. (check in at 9). Please contact Linda Zutter at walk@ALSAlabama.org or 800-664-1242 for more information. Environmental Center Open House The Environmental Studies Center will conduct its annual Spring Open House from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Admission is Free. Come enjoy many activities for the whole family. Color Me Rad 5K Don’t miss out on the Color Me Rad 5K happening at the Greater Gulf State Fairgrounds in Mobile! The Color Bombs start flying at 9 a.m. with waves of runners getting plastered with paint every few minutes after. You’ll end up looking like a kindergarten art class gone wrong... but the Art of Running will make you feel oh so right. Color Me Rad is a for-profit event that gives a portion of the proceeds of each race to a local charity. A portion of the proceeds of this race will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile when participants use promo code & RONALD when they register online. Participants of all ages are welcome to run or walk. Registration is available at colormerad. com. For information on race volunteer opportunities, please visit www.rmhcmobile.org or call 251-694-6873. Location: Greater Gulf State Fairgrounds. Start Time 9:00 a.m. Blessing of the Fleet Join us from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. This popular event will

be held on the grounds of St. Margaret’s Catholic Church, 13790 South Wintzell Avenue, Bayou La Batre. Admission is free. This event includes a wide selection of family friendly activities, great food, live entertainment and more. For more information, please visit fleetblessing.org. St Mary Catholic School Casino Night Join us for A Silver Screen Spectacular featuring a “A Taste of Midtown” with Alec Naman and other local favorites. This fundraising event includes live and silent auctions, games with local celebrities, door prizes, great food and entertainment. 6:00 p.m. until... at 107 N. Lafayette Street. General admission: $25 in advance/$30 in advance/Seniors: $25. Please visit www.stmarymobile.org for more information. Best of Rodgers & Hammerstein Crafton Beck, guest conductor. What makes great movies like “The Sound of Music” and “Oklahoma!” so memorable? The music! MSO is dedicating an entire concert to the “Golden Age” writing team that is still making its debut in households around the world today. It’s a season finale you will not want to miss! The performance will take place at the Saenger Theatre at 8 p.m. and on May 4 at 2:30 p.m. Please visit www.mobilesymphony.org for more information. 1st Saturday for Families – Mobile Museum of Art Bring the whole family to the Museum the first Saturday of each month for artistic and creative fun! Interact with other artists to draw inspiration from the museum’s collection and exhibitions. Then make your own work of art while learning about old and new artistic processes. Free to museum guests, with paid admission. Free to members. Please make a reservation because space is limited. Families may bring four individuals (including at least one adult). Call 251.208.5205. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Tunnel Vision 5K Come join us for Tunnel Vision 5K at 8:00 a.m. The race starts in downtown Mobile; they will start at the Mobile Public Library on Government Street and finish at Tacky Jacks on the Causeway. The proceeds from the Tunnel Vision 5K will benefit the sight programs of the Lions Club of Mobile. For registration information, please visit tunnelvisionrun.org. Spring Market on the Square 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, casseroles, pies, handcrafted goods and so much more. Stay for live music on the green! Each Saturday through July 27th. This year we will be adding organic vegetables as well. 7:30 a.m. until Noon on Cathedral Square. For information call 208-1558. Screen on the Green – Lavretta Park Come join us for a movie in Lavretta Park at 8:00 p.m. Join us from 7 - 8 p.m. for pre-movie activities. “The Little Mermaid Jr.” See May 1 for more information. “Cinderella - The Musical” Playhouse in the Park See May 2 for more information. 2014 Gallery of Gardens See May 2 for more information.

Sunday, May 4

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Studio: Watercolor Paintings Deaf and hard of hearing students will use inspiration from the Pre-Global exhibition to explore painting with watercolors. Students will learn the basics of painting with watercolors, study several watercolor painting techniques and leave class with one completed painting. RSVP by April 30. CLA Studio (301 Conti Street), 1 – 4 p.m. Call Brennan Gibson at 208- 5658 or email cla.gibson@cityofmobile.org to sign up. “The Little Mermaid Jr.” See May 1 for more information. “Cinderella - The Musical” See May 2 for more information.

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Family Calendar Blessing of the Fleet See May 3 for more information. Best of Rodgers & Hammerstein See May 3 for more information.

Tuesday, May 6

Navigating Dyslexia: A Parent Workshop Series Navigating Dyslexia Parent Workshop - “Ship Shape for School: Thinking Ahead for Next School Year”. 6:307:30- Fee: $10. Register at www.dyslexiaspecialist.net. Presented by Sylvia Muller, M.Ed. Educational Consultant, Read-Write: The Learning Center, 5472C Old Shell Rd, Mobile. (251) 287-1822.

Wednesday, May 7 Brown Bag Bienville See April 23 for more information.

Thursday, May 8

Mobile Heart Ball 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. Where: Five Rivers Delta Hall (30945 Five Rivers Boulevard). Please visit http:// mobileheartball.ahaevents.org/ for more information. Mobile Museum of Art – Book Sale Book sale from 1 p.m. - 8 p.m. at the Mobile Museum of Art. Please visit www.mobilemuseumofart.com for more information. Thursdays at the Museum See April 24 for more information.

Friday, May 9

LoDa Artwalk Second Fridays in downtown is the place to be! Join downtown art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops as they open their doors and welcome you inside to see beautiful artwork, sample delicious foods and hear the sounds of the LoDa Artwalk. The ArtWalk gets better and better each month. From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the lower Dauphin district. Parents Night Out The Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center offers an opportunity for parents of children ages 4 - 12 to spend a grown up night out at LoDa Artwalk, enjoying all that downtown Mobile has to offer, while their kids enjoy the best in quality, informal education, entertainment and social development in a secure and structured environment. Children will be able to explore the Exploreum’s hands-on, interactive exhibit galleries, experience a kid-friendly feature film, make new friends, enjoy a popcorn snack with lemonade, and learn lots of new stuff from the Exploreum’s team of informal educators! Please visit www.exploreum.com for more information. “Cats” – Chickasaw Civic Theatre What better way to close our 50th season than a reprise of “Cats”? The familiar junkyard will take over the stage as black cats, white cats, young cats, old cats, beautiful cats, dandified cats, acrobat cats and even a theatre cat convene to pick the one of their number who will be rewarded with another life. The second longest running show on Broadway, a showpiece of Andrew Lloyd Webber music and fun. Show dates: May 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, and 25. Friday & Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. Lola Phillips Playhouse (801 Iroquois St, Chickasaw) Adults/ $15; senior citizens (60+) & students/ $14 (cash and local checks). For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.cctshows.com.

April/May2014

“Pump Boys and Dinettes” – Mobile Theatre Guild Musical comedy directed by Timothy Guy. Show Dates: May 9, 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18. Friday & Saturday 8 p.m. and Sunday 2 p.m. Mobile Theatre Guild (14 N. Lafayette St) General/ $20; 62+, military & students/ $15. For more information, please visit www. mobiletheatreguild.org. “Cinderella - The Musical” – Playhouse in the Park See May 2 for more information.

Saturday, May 10

Arts and Crafts Fair West Mobile Baptist Church at 7501 Airport Blvd in Mobile will have an Arts and Craft Fair from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. There will be music, crafts of all kinds, a Kid’s Zone with inflatables and face painting; food items will be available also. The proceeds will benefit the mission projects of the church. “Cats” – Chickasaw Civic Theatre See May 9 for more information. “Pump Boys and Dinettes” – Mobile Theatre Guild See May 9 for more information. “Cinderella - The Musical” – Playhouse in the Park See May 2 for more information. Spring Market on the Square See May 3 for more information.

Sunday, May 11

Mother’s Day Concert – 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 Orchestra at 5:30 p.m. 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 at 5:30 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 $6.00 for adults and $3.00 for children ages 5-12. Children under the age of 5 are always admitted free. Please visit www.bellingrath.org for more information. “Cats” – Chickasaw Civic Theatre See May 9 for more information. “Pump Boys and Dinettes” – Mobile Theatre Guild See May 9 for more information. “Cinderella - The Musical” – Playhouse in the Park See May 2 for more information.

Wednesday, May 14

Learning Lunch – Tom McGehee Bring your lunch and enjoy a presentation by Tom McGehee from Bellingrath Gardens & Home. Beverages are provided. Take a break to learn about the history and culture of the south. Place: History Museum of Mobile (111 South Royal Street) at 12 p.m. Brown Bag Bienville See April 23 for more information.

Thursday, May 15

An Evening in History Join Historic Mobile Preservation Society at the Oakleigh Historic Home (300 Oakleigh Place) for our monthly educational program An Evening in History. Speaker to be announced. Refreshments served at 5:45 p.m. and the lecture begins at 6:00 p.m. Admission is free to all HMPS members and is $10 for guests. For reservations call 432-6161, or email us at hmps@bellsouth.net.

Mobile Museum of Art – Lecture Series Our regular spring lecture series, on one Thursday afternoon a month through May, includes a variety of topics focused on the exhibition, Celebrating African American Art. Each lecture begins at 2 p.m. and features local art historian and longtime MMofA supporter, Dr. Robert Bantens. Thursday, May 15 – The Importance of the Robert and Jean Steele Promised Gift. The lectures are free of charge with museum admission and always free for museum members. Lightweight and portable gallery benches will be made available during the presentation. Coffee and light refreshments will be available by donation. Reservations are encouraged and can be made by contacting Howard McPhail at 251.208.5205 or emailing howard.mcphail@mobilemuseumofart.com. Thursdays at the Museum See April 24 for more information.

Friday, May 16

“Cats” – Chickasaw Civic Theatre See May 9 for more information. “Pump Boys and Dinettes” – Mobile Theatre Guild See May 9 for more information. “Cinderella - The Musical” – Playhouse in the Park See May 2 for more information.

Saturday, May 17

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Great Strides Walk Great Strides provides a great opportunity for people within the community to get involved in a great cause. Participants can form walk teams at their workplace, through their clubs and organizations, or with friends and family. Walk day is a fun, family-oriented event with a healthy 5k walk, children’s activities, food, and festivities that participants look forward to year after year. Location: USA Track at 9:00 a.m. Please visit http://fightcf.cff.org for more information. NAMI Walk Mobile Walk with us to raise funds and awareness for those in our community affected by mental illness. There is no charge but if you raise $100 or more you will receive a free NAMIWalks t-shirt the day of the event. Registration and signed waiver required. Location: Spring Hill College Campus Start/End Time: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. For more information, contact: Connie Ewing - 709-3044 or email namimobile1@gmail.com. “The Visitor” – Commedia del Arte A family friendly version of “The Visitor”. Show will take place at 7:30 p.m. at the Church of the Redeemer Hall (7125 Hitt Road). Admission - $10 in advance, $12 at the door. For tickets, visit www.commediadelarte.org or call (251) 510-0654. A portion of the proceeds to benefit the Animal Rescue Foundation. Memorial 5K Run/Walk for Alabama’s Fallen Heroes Race, registration, and post-race activities at Battleship Park on the Causeway. Benefits Blue Star Salute Foundation, Inc. (www.bluestarsalute. org) Each runner will run with the name of one of Alabama’s Fallen Heroes on their Race Bib and afterwards during activities, they can visit the wall of Alabama’s Faces of the Price of Freedom to see the faces of their fallen service member. Please visit bluestarsalutefallenheroes5k.eventbrite.com for more information. “Cats” – Chickasaw Civic Theatre See May 9 for more information. “Pump Boys and Dinettes” – Mobile Theatre Guild See May 9 for more information. “Cinderella - The Musical” – Playhouse in the Park See May 2 for more information. Spring Market on the Square See May 3 for more information.

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T Saturday, May 24

Mobile Pops Concert – Medal of Honor Park Come join us for a free concert at 6:00 p.m. at Medal of Honor Park. For more information, please visit www.mobilepopsband.com. “Cats” – Chickasaw Civic Theatre See May 9 for more information. Spring Market on the Square See May 3 for more information.

Sunday, May 25

“Cats” – Chickasaw Civic Theatre See May 9 for more information.

Wednesday, May 28

Learning Lunch: Richard Bailey Bring your lunch and enjoy a presentation by AuthorHistorian, Richard Bailey. Beverages are provided. Take a break to learn about the history and culture of the south. Place: History Museum of Mobile (111 South Royal Street) at 12 p.m. Brown Bag Bienville See April 23 for more information.

Thursday, May 29 Thursdays at the Museum See April 24 for more information.

Friday, May 30

Monty Python’s “Spamalot” – Joe Jefferson Players A musical lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy “Monty Python & The Holy Grail”, “Spamalot” retells the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, and features a bevy of beautiful show girls, not to mention cows, killer rabbits, and French people. Show Dates: May 30, 31 June 1, 6, 7, 13, 14 & 15. Friday & Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m. Joe Jefferson Playhouse (11 S. Carlen St.). Adults/ $20; senior citizens and military/ $15; students/ $10. For more information, please call (251) 471-1534 or visit www.joejeffersonplayers.com.

Saturday, May 31

Sunday, May 18

Tuesday, May 20

Mrs. Bessie Bellingrath’s Birthday Celebration Bellingrath Gardens. Born on May 20, 1878, Bessie Morse Bellingrath left an unparalleled mark on the Gardens and Home of Bellingrath. Plan a visit to the Gardens to celebrate Mrs. Bellingrath’s birthday. After touring the Bellingrath Home and learning of how Mrs. Bellingrath amassed the decorative arts collection that bears her name, be sure to visit the Bellingrath Gift Shop. Be sure to join us for the birthday celebration of

Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

an extraordinary woman! Please visit www.bellingrath. org for more information.

Wednesday, May 21

The Color Dash This Color Dash Benefits: The Hearin-Chandler Family YMCA. Packet Pick-Up: 7 a .m. Dash Start: 9 a.m. The Hearin-Chandler Family YMCA serves the greater Mobile community. The proceeds from this community event will be used to afford those less fortunate, in our community, the opportunity to receive scholarships for membership, swimming lessons, summer camp, sports and more at the YMCA. Please visit www.eventbrite. com for more information. Spring Market on the Square See May 3 for more information.

Brown Bag Bienville See April 23 for more information.

Thursday, May 22

Old Crow Medicine Show – Civic Center SHOW is at 8:00 p.m. (all ages), Tickets: $29.75 and $39.75. Tickets available at Mobile Civic Center Box Office, by phone 800-745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com. Thursdays at the Museum See April 24 for more information.

Friday, May 23

“Cats” – Chickasaw Civic Theatre See May 9 for more information.

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

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TheFlyLady

A Flight Plan For You and Your Home. by Marla Cilley

Parents Should Do Their Best, Lessons ainSpider But Not ExpectFrom Too Much Return This morning while I was taking my bath I noticed a little feathery spider crawling across my ceiling. I have been watching this spider since last fall. It is a happy living thing and I have become protective of it! For many months it lived in the corner over my tub. When I first noticed the spider, I thought it was dead. When I started to clear the cobweb it moved! I was shocked. I had no idea that it was alive. What was it eating? One evening I started my bath water and notice it was in the bottom of the tub; I rescued it and put it behind a basket. That brings me to this morning. I had been gone for a week and had forgotten about the spider. Then I look up and see her. I like to think of the spider as a she! I watched her crawl across the ceiling toward the light over the sink, I saw her fall every few steps. I was standing ready to catch her if she fell into my bath water, but she did not fall very far. She had built herself a safety net. Every few steps she would anchor her

web. Then if she slipped she would only fall a few inches. This was how she could defy gravity. Her web gave her sure footing and security if she did fall. I pondered this while I was meditating in the tub. What lessons could I learn from watching her? Build yourself a safety net was the first one I thought of. I do this in lots of ways. 1. I have a $20 bill on my key ring in a capsule. 2. I have a hand bar to help me get out of the tub. 3. I have an emergency kit in my truck. 4. I have friends I can call. 5. I have backup chargers and wifi. 6. I have my keys on a lanyard so they don’t get lost. 7. I put my purse in the same place when I get home. 8. I have my routines. The second lesson that came to mind was her patience. She did not get in a hurry! Each step was slow and

steady! So many times we miss out on the fun because we are too rushed to stop and be in the moment. I have enjoyed living in peace for many years. I was in no rush to get out of the tub. The time I spent watching her journey sparked this essay. The third lesson I saw was to follow your instincts! She already knew how to spin her web. She was true to who she was! She was a spider, doing what spiders do best! Many times we get caught trying to be who everyone else thinks we should be and we don’t follow our own path. Our routines become our safety nets, they allow us to take baby steps to get our homes in order and then they free us to be who we were meant to be. Are your ready to FLY?

For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, see her website and join her free mentoring group at www.FlyLady.net. Also check out her books, Sink Reflections, published by Random House, and her New York Times Best Selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2013 Marla Cilley. Used by permission in this publication.

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Rio 2

Bears

MPAA Rating: G Overall: B Violence: BSexual Content: ALanguage: AAlcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated Rio 2 G. After finding his wings in Rio, Blu, a rare blue macaw (voice by Jesse Eisenberg), has settled into domestic bliss in the Brazilian city with Jewel, his significant other (voice by Anne Hathaway), and their three little chicks. As they ring in the New Year with fireworks, life is good for the little family. Yet all that changes when a television news story reports the possible discovery of a flock of blue macaws deep in the Amazon. Jewel is thrilled to find out they may not be the last of their kind. And before the nerdy, nature-phobic Blu knows what’s happening, Jewel has the kids ready for a high adventure trip into the jungle to find the elusive birds. However, for the citified macaw, this is not a journey to be undertaken lightly. By the time the family and their plumaged pals -- Rafael (voice of George Lopez), Nico (voice of Jaimie Foxx) and Pedro (voice of of will.i.am) -- take flight, Blu has his fanny bag packed with every imaginable doodad, including a GPS. Unfortunately there is nothing in the pouch to smooth the ruffled feathers when he meets Jewel’s father (voice of Andy García) and her childhood friend Roberto (voice of Bruno Mars). Meanwhile Linda, Blu’s former owner (voice of Leslie Mann), and her husband, ornithologist Tulio Monteiro (voice of Rodrigo Santoro) are slogging their way through the Amazon undergrowth. They hope to spot the rare birds as well. If that seems like more than enough storyline to fill 100 minutes, you’ll be in for a surprise. This plot also pits environmental agendas against evil loggers. And it introduces not one, but several antagonists -everything from a lollipop licking businessman, to rival forest dwellers, to an overdramatic cockatoo with revenge on his mind. That leads to some moments of peril for several characters. For children (or tired adults), it feels like a lot of work to keep all of the bad guys and side stories straight. The film is also packed with a swarm of musical productions. While none of the songs will knock Frozen’s “Let It Go” off the charts, the tunes are still catchy enough for most young viewers and give the film’s animators an excuse for plenty of flashy dance interludes that mimic the revelry of Carnival. Other numbers look surprisingly similar to West Side Story or Battle of the Year. Most of the characters from the first movie show up for at least a cameo. And that makes for lots of juggling to give everyone some screen time. But luckily, in between all the flurry of feathers, Blu still manages to man up enough to save the flock and his little family as well.

MPAA Rating: G Overall: A Violence: B Sexual Content: ALanguage: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Bears G. Alastair Fothergill has a great gig with the Disneynature Studio. He’s the director behind films like Earth, African Cats, Chimpanzee and the 2014 release Bears. Imagine having a job that flew you around the world. Of course once you’re on location, you have to spend countless hours in less than ideal conditions, standing as still as possible in order to not disturb your subject. Also, there’s no fancy director’s chair, no comfy trailer to hang out in and certainly no retakes. And you still have to work with the occasional diva. Okay, maybe it’s not as great as it looks. Still Fothergill and his camera crew have captured some of the most stunning film footage ever shown in a theater. And in the documentary Bears, they do no less. The story follows a mother brown bear and her two cubs during the little ones’ first year of life in the Alaskan wilderness. The opening scenes show the newborn cubs still inside the den. Their tiny pink paws and almost hairless bodies make it seem impossible to think they could ever endure the harsh environment outside the cave. Yet only weeks later they’ve grown enough to make their first foray into the snow covered landscape. While the cinematography is spectacular, the dialogue is definitely aimed at a young audience. John C. Reilly narrates. And to be honest, the script gets a little cheesy at times when the movie makes it appear we can read the bears’ minds. (It’s more likely the hungry animals were contemplating how tasty a cameraman would be.) Despite the fact adults might feel this dialogue is manipulative, kids will likely love the silly comments and the antics of the small cubs. The only real problem for little ones may be the portrayal of the mother grizzly defending her babies from a hungry male bear, along with some other fights between the massive animals. Some blood is shown when the bears go salmon fishing and snag the writhing fish between their mighty jaws. As well, there is a brief comment about a boy bear that likes a girl bear, but it is subtle enough that only the most inquisitive child might ask for more details. Although the film offers a sanitized view of the wild (and thankfully none of the main characters die), this documentary manages to bring bears to life in a way that a trip to the zoo could never hope to do. Watching this mother and her cubs navigate the perils they endure is inspiring and impressive. Yet the real charm is when we watch them romp, play, explore and soak in the summer sun. Once again Alastair Fothergill and his team have given us all a reason to care about the environment.

What Parents need to know about Rio 2...

Violence: Kids play with matches. A character’s tail starts on fire and he is shot into the air. The film contains frequent cartoon-style mishaps where characters slip, trip and run into things. A character is hit with a stick. One bird attempts to poison another. Characters destroy nature, tie up people and use large machines and explosives to knock down trees. Characters are chased and swallowed. Sexual Content: Some brief, veiled sexual innuendo is included, along with some embracing. Language: The script contains some brief name-calling. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters pop corks and clink glasses during a New Year’s Eve celebration. Mobile Bay Parents I May 2014

What Parents need to know about Bears...

Violence: The bears narrowly miss being swept away in an avalanche. A mother bear fights to defend her cubs from predators including a wolf and a male bear. A cub gets separated from his mother when the tide comes in. Some blood is shown when the bears catch salmon and eat their flesh. Sexual Content: Brief scene includes some romantic music and a comment about a boy bear that likes a girl bear. Language: None Alcohol / Drug Use: None 56

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Third timeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the charm!

. take d e t c s t hr e t o r p e e do s y l l u f es of the H P V vacc ine to be HPV causes cervical cancer and many other cancers in men and women. The HPV vaccine is recommended for boys and girls at age 11-12 to prevent cancers and diseases later in life. For those not yet vaccinated, the vaccine is recommended through age 21 for boys and age 26 for girls. The ADPH encourages you to pair the first dose of the HPV vaccine with the required 6th grade vaccinations (TDAP/Meningococcal) The vaccine is available at ALL County Health Departments at little or no cost to children ages 9 to 18. Dependents up to age 26 may be covered by their parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; insurance.

Get in the loop and learn about the HP V vaccine! /CANCERCONTROL

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