Mobile Bay Parents "Afterschool Activities Issue" (August 23)

Protecting Teen Drivers

Mobile

Bay’s

Anyone traveling this summer witnessed how busy the roads and the airlines were over the two months. While it may be frustrating if you are in the middle of it, it is wonderful that so many families were out taking vacations, visiting family and friends, and making memories together! One of my dearest friends was on the road back-to-back all summer. She lived out of her suitcase between choir tours, college visits, and family vacations. Can you imagine how organized you would need to be to pull that off? She shared one of her packing tips that I thought was great. She rolls each daily outfit up altogether. So shirt, shorts, socks, undies, and accessories all get rolled together into one unit. That way, she just grabs that roll and heads to the bathroom without digging around in her suitcase to find the individual pieces and knows she has enough clothes, socks, and undergarments for her trip. Genius! Leave it to my teacher friend to have such a streamlined routine.

While we are getting ready to trade in packing our suitcases for packing backpacks, some of the same principles apply. A well-organized machine is key, especially on school days with kids. Nothing can throw off a day like the mad search for a missing shoe or the field trip form that needed to be signed. As we come upon a new school year, if you don’t have a well-thought-out plan for your mornings, I encourage you to check out Cherie Gough’s tips in this month’s feature Out the Door on Time: 9 Tips for a Smooth Morning Routine. Gough gives us some helpful ideas to smooth out and avoid a rough start to your day.

As if the morning school rush is not stressful enough, adding a driving teenager to the mix can throw the angst into high gear, especially as they start driving in school traffic for the first time. The morning commute is already filled with people running late, going too fast, and weaving in and out of traffic, not to mention the sudden stops of people on congested roadways. New drivers must be prepared for these conditions. As Christa Hines reinforces in her feature, Protecting Teen Drivers, it is always a good idea to have new drivers practice in various driving conditions. If you have a new driver or will have one soon, check out her other tips too!

Now that we have organized and prepared for the start of our school day, what about after school? Once the dismissal bell rings, it’s time for after-school activities. Maybe your child is an athlete and loves to play sports. Or perhaps you have a music prodigy on your hands. No matter what activities your child is interested in, we have many opportunities available in our area! Just flip over to the 2023 After School Activities Guide, and you will see a plethora of options for sports, music, art, theater, dance, and more. We hope this listing helps you find extracurricular activities your child will love.

It won’t be long before everyone is waving at each other in carline and attending field trips together, so we wish everyone a wonderful school year!

Lynn

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@mobilebayparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@mobilebayparents.com

Research Editor Lucy Green

Contributing Writers Savannah Browning, MD Kristi Bush, LSW

Cherie Gough

Christa Melnyk Hines

Dave Ramsey Works of Wonder Therapy

Cover Photography Hannah Stinson Photography www.HannahStinsonPhotography.com

President Jason Watson

Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton ads@mobilebayparents.com (251) 304-1200

Ad Design Tim Welch

Web Content Manager

Scott Davis Mobile Bay Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing

P.O. Box 81105, Mobile, Alabama, 36689. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 304-1200. Mobile Bay Parents is copyrighted 2023 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in

part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Mobile Bay Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect he view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com

Raising Emotionally Resilient Children

There are two common misconceptions that hinder parents from raising emotionally resilient children. The first is that “healthy children” have appropriate emotional reactions. The second is that “good parents” are immediately able to help their children overcome negative emotions.

First, do not believe the lie that only “healthy children” have appropriate emotional reactions. You may become fixated on solving a problem that does not exist. If your child is under the age of 8 and your ONLY concern is that he/ she displays overly negative emotions, please know that this is completely age appropriate. Children tend to become upset when they are denied access to what they want, are made to do what they do not want to do, are not given enough attention, or are physically overwhelmed (tired, hungry, etc). If they are over the age of 8, you should see a SLOW improvement in their ability to display self-control when they become upset. Once puberty starts, just try to remember how

hard that season of life was on you and model the reactions you want to see.

Second, the idea that “good parents” can immediately manage their child’s negative emotions is false. If children are not forced to struggle through their own negative emotions, they are bypassing a vital part of the developmental process. Sometimes what appears to be “good parenting” is detrimental for character building. We help children build character and emotional resilience by simply sitting with them in difficult moments.

What does it mean to “sit” with your struggling child?

1. It is telling your toddler that he cannot have another cookie and holding him close when he starts to cry. It is not redirecting his attention to distract him from the frustration.

2. It is actively listening to your preteen tell a story about how mean her friends can be. It is not helping her see another per-

spective or telling her how to respond more appropriately.

3. It is letting your child be afraid. It is not dismissing the fear or allowing it to dictate his behavior.

4. It is letting your daughter push the Legos away when her Lego tower falls apart. It is not giving her instructions on how to take deep breaths instead.

Excellent parents just sit in the struggle with their children. They save teaching for when learning is optimal. They do not attempt to solve, control, or avoid their child’s negative emotions. Despite the circumstances, they remain focused on their goal of raising emotionally regulated adults who can respond appropriately when things do not go their way. Excellent parents focus on actions more than feelings and attitudes. When they do this, they help their children learn that their feelings cannot dictate their behavior. They do not attempt to make their children “feel good” about doing hard things. Instead, they do it with them. If their child does not want to go to the bathroom, they take her anyway. If their child is afraid of jumping in the pool, they jump in with him. It is easy to parent with words, but excellent parents speak with their actions.

Excellent parents help their children understand that it is normal to experience all 87 emotions. They do not teach their children to chase “good” emotions and avoid the “bad”. They help children understand that negative emotions are not problematic, but a normal part of enjoying life to its fullest.

Be an excellent parent by being strong enough to just sit with your children when they experience negative emotions, stay calm when they display inappropriate reactions, and take the necessary actions to do the hard things with them instead of simply talking to ease your own discomfort.

MMofA Explores Early 1900s

Mobile Museum of Art will open DECADES: Looking Back/ Moving Forward (19001919), the first in a series of exhibitions that will immerse visitors in the art, history, and innovations of the decades leading up to the sixties when MMofA first opened. The period 1900 to 1919 was a time of change in the world and in art. The Armory Show in New York City opened in 1913 and introduced many Americans to the first modern art they’d ever seen. This iteration of DECADES includes an homage to the Armory Show that will allow visitors to view works by the same artists who actually participated in the exhibition. MMofA is also planning a full slate of programming and classes inspired by the time period including screenings of films, photography classes, and more.

DECADES: Looking Back/Moving Forward (1900-1919) will be on view through November 25, 2023. For more information about this exhibition and other Museum programs, visit www.MobileMuseumofArt.com.

United Way of Southwest Alabama Annual Meeting

Join us for the United Way of Southwest Alabama’s 2023 Annual Meeting on August 10, 2023, from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM at the Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa, located at 26 N Royal St, Mobile, AL 36602. This year’s event promises to be an inspiring gathering as we welcome keynote speaker Ron Ferguson, Ph.D., founder and president of The Basics. Dr. Ferguson, a renowned economist and researcher, has dedicated his career to studying factors that affect educational achievement, with a particular focus on the achievement gap in the United States and strategies to improve schools and identify effective teachers. Early bird tickets for the Annual Meeting are now available for purchase at a discounted rate of $60 per person or $600 for a table of 9 until July 17. General admission tickets will be priced at $75 per person or $750 for a table of 9 and will be available for purchase from July 18 through August 2. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to learn from Dr. Ron Ferguson and support The Basics Southwest Alabama campaign. Order your tickets now to secure your spot at this enlightening and impactful event. For info and sponsorship opportunities, contact Leslie Schraeder at 251.433.3624 or lschraeder@uwswa.org or visit https://uwswa.org/annual-meeting-23/.

LODA ArtWalk Celebrates Fashion

LODA ArtWalk Celebrates Fashion

on Friday, August 11th from 6-9 pm in Downtown Mobile. This event will highlight creatives within our community, including visual artists, musical performers, local restaurants, art galleries, small businesses, and more. Come and join us as we showcase Fashion. This is the perfect opportunity to show us your favorite fashion trend for this August ArtWalk. Come enjoy our kid’s Zone (N. Claiborne St. between St. Francis St. & Dauphin St.). Create your own DIY canvas bag and hat craft, music, fashion, and more. Please visit https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/ events/august-loda-artwalk-2023 for more information

Walk to Defeat ALS South Alabama

Join us on Saturday, September 16 for the Walk to Defeat ALS, check-in starts at 9:30 am at the University of South Alabama Intramural Field. We remain steadfast in HOPE for a cure and committed to supporting one another through everyday challenges. Please REGISTER today, save the date, and begin the journey with us. Visit https://www.als.org/alabama/walkdetails-south-alabama to register.

Mobile Brick Convention LEGO Fan Expo

Brick Convention is the ultimate event for LEGO lovers of all ages. The numerous play areas treat fans of all ages to a day of hands-on fun, games, and life-size LEGO models. Coming to Mobile, AL on September 9 and 10 at the Mobile Civic Center. Attractions include amazing LEGO creations, meetand-greets with professional LEGO artists, and vendors selling the latest LEGO accessories, sets, mini-figures, and even retired and hard-to-find LEGO. A portion of the proceeds from each Brick Convention is donated to Creations for Charity. Creations for Charity is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization that buy new LEGO sets for underprivileged children. Buy your tickets now at www.brickconvention.com/mobile.

Friday Night Live

The City of Mobile Parks and Recreation Department presents FNL: Friday Night Live on Friday, August 25 from 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm at Medal of Honor Park. Come enjoy a free, family evening of Live Rock & Reggae Music. Performances By: The Rock Mob Band, Ambush Reggae Band and DJ WizKid. Pick up some food & drinks on your way to the park and enjoy a picnic under the stars. Please visit https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events/ friday-night-live-august-2023/ for more information.

Mr. Bellingrath’s Birthday

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, on August 6, 1869, Walter D. Bellingrath was Mobile’s first Coca-Cola bottler and the founder of Bellingrath Gardens and Home. In honor of Mr. Bellingrath’s Birthday, admission to the Gardens is free to all Mobile and Baldwin County residents on August 6, 2023. (Please be prepared to show your ID to prove place of residence.) Guests are invited to tour the Gardens and the beautiful Bellingrath Museum Home. There is a charge of $10 to tour the Home. Please visit https://bellingrath. org/experiences/events/mr-bellingraths-birthday-celebration.

Sunny Side Theater

Fantastic Mr. Fox Auditions

Sunny Side Theater is excited to announce auditions for their first show of the 2023-2024 season! Fantastic Mr. Fox auditions will be held Monday, August 21 and Tuesday, August 22 at 6 pm at Azalea City Center for the Arts, 63 Midtown Park East. There is no need to prepare anything - we will read from the script that night! This show is open to grades 2 & up. Performances will be October 20-22 at Davidson High School. Someone’s been stealing from the three meanest farmers around, and they know the identity of the thief—it’s Fantastic Mr. Fox! Working alone they could never catch him; but now Boggis, Bunce, and Bean have joined forces, and they have Mr. Fox and his family surrounded. What they don’t know is that they’re not dealing with just any fox—Mr. Fox would rather die than surrender. Only the most fantastic plan can save him now. Call or text Chris at 251-510-1808.

2,000 sq. ft. Space with Private Bathrooms

16th Annual GO Run

Runners and walkers

will turn out in teal and purple for the 16th annual GO Run for gynecologic oncology on Saturday, Sept. 16, on the campus of the University of South Alabama. Presented by the Catranis Family Charitable Foundation, the 5K begins at 8 a.m., with the 1-mile fun run starting at 9 a.m. near the front of Hancock Whitney Stadium. “The GO Run is a wonderful family-friendly event that supports a great cause – gynecologic cancer research at the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute,” said Caroline Smith, director of medical affairs development at the University of South Alabama. Over the past 15 years, the GO Run has raised more than $800,000 in support of gynecologic cancer research, clinical trials and outreach at the MCI. One of the highlights of the GO Run is the team experience, Smith said. “You can team up with friends, family and co-workers to compete for team awards such as Highest Fundraising Team, Most Team Spirit, Best Dressed Team and Largest Team,” she said. The earlybird entry fee for the GO Run is $25 for adults and $15 for those 12 and under through July 31.

Participants can sign up to run a virtual 5K for $35. Registration can be completed online. For more information, visit the GO Run webpage at https://www.usahealthsystem. com/events/go-run.

Mobile Opera Summer Soiree

Join us for an evening of exquisite dining and exceptional music at Mobile Opera’s 13th Annual Summer Soiree. Mobile Opera’s annual fundraiser will be held on Sunday, August 27 from 5:30pm-8:00pm at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Please call 251-4326772 or visit www.mobileopera.org/.

History Comes Alive at Battleship Memorial Park

Come see history come to life at Battleship Memorial Park on Saturday, August 12, 2023 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at our Living History Crew Drill. Interact with historical WWII reenactors aboard the USS ALABAMA and the USS DRUM. These crewmen, dressed in WWII period Navy uniforms, hold demonstrations, conduct weapons briefings, and share stories told to them by our original crewmen.

The big event of the day happens at 1:00 p.m. when “Call to Battle Stations” is sounded. Grab a spot on the bow of the USS ALABAMA and watch as vintage enemy aircraft fly over and attack the ship. The drill is open to the public and included with general admission.

For more information on the Living History Crew Drill, please visit our Facebook page at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park or call Ashleigh Milne at 251-327-8750. USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park is located at 2703 Battleship Parkway in Mobile, Alabama.

Bathrooms

Mobile Arts Council Announces Finalists for Isom Clemon Civil Rights Memorial Park Project

On behalf of the Mobile County Commission, the Mobile Arts Council is pleased to announce the finalists for the Isom Clemon Civil Rights Memorial Park sculpture project. The goal of this project is to create dignified statuary honoring Isom Clemon that is accessible and cohesive with the County’s plan to develop Mobile County Civil Rights and Cultural Heritage Districts, including the redevelopment of Isom Clemon Civil Rights Memorial Park in downtown Mobile. Three finalists, all with strong ties to Alabama, were selected to submit full proposals for the park. The three artists/artist teams consist of Kim Bernadas of Silverhill, AL (Fine Art of Bronze Sculpture) and Corey Swindle of Fairhope, AL (Fairhope Foundry); sculptor Steven Whyte and Mobile Studio, a landscape architecture, public art installation and project management office based in Montgomery, AL; and artist and sculptor Dr. Ronald Scott McDowell of Tuskegee, AL. The project’s selection committee will choose the final proposal in the upcoming month. The selected sculptor will be responsible for creating a larger-than-life realistic representation of

Arthur Ashe Kids Day

Join the City of Mobile Parks and Recreation Department as they celebrate Tennis Pro Arthur Ashe and why he is an American Hero! Arthur Ashe Kids Day is a free family-friendly event that will take place Aug. 26, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Lyons Park Tennis Center. All ages are welcome to enjoy Tennis Clinics for the Kids, Essay Contest, Art Contest, Trivia and more!

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Updated Car Seat Safety

Car seat safety is a topic that is constantly evolving, especially recently. It can be difficult to keep up with the latest information. Let’s start with the most recent (and important) changes:

1. Children will remain rear facing until at least 2 years of age (previously kids turned to forward facing at either their 1st or 2nd birthday), but will now remain rear facing until they maximize their height and weight on their current rear facing car seat.

2. Older children who have outgrown their forward-facing car seats will remain in an appropriate booster seat until they are big enough for the seat belt to securely fasten, which is typically when the child reaches 4 feet 9 inches (which can happen at age 9-14 or beyond).

Let’s break down the types of car seats, and the age ranges to which they apply.

Rear-facing car seats (infant carrier and convertible car seats) – Infants will start at rear-facing infant carrier, then will move on to a rear-facing convertible car seat once they have reached the maximum height and weight of the infant carrier, usually by 9-12 months of age. A convertible car seat can be used once your child has outgrown the infant carrier, and will be maxed out at the rear facing configuration based on the manufacturer’s maximum height and weight requirements. This usually occurs between the ages of 2-4. Remember that rear facing is by far the safest position for children – so keeping them in this position keeps them safest the longest. That might even mean that their legs are either straddling the seat or maybe sticking up in the air, but that’s ok. Kids have very flexible joints – it is not uncomfortable for them to sit that way.

Forward facing car seats – This is the direction the car seat will face when the rear facing position has been outgrown. This has a 5-point harness. Most children will remain in this car seat until about 5-7 years of age depending on their weight and size.

Booster seats – This is the last step before your child can wear the standard seat belt without support. This seat just helps to maximize the safety of the seat belt until a child is tall enough to wear the seat belt effectively.

If you have any questions about a car seat for your child then please ask your pediatrician at your child’s next checkup.

Dr. Savannah Browning grew up in Fayette, AL. She moved to Mobile to attend Medical School at the University of South Alabama in 2009, and has been a proud Mobilian ever since. She joined Children’s Medical Group in 2016, and her office is at the Airport Boulevard location. She lives in Mobile with her husband, Andrew, and their three children: Jude, Luke, and Annie.

Autauga County Schools

Heartwood Christian Academy Visits Dr. Itza’s Planetarium

Have you ever gazed into the sky only to view a blur that looked like a star? Recently, Heartwood Christian Academy had the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Salomon Itza, Professor of Physics and Astronomy from the University of Mobile. Dr. Itza introduced students to his Planetarium, which was quite impressive. It’s an amazing way to see the stars up close. The students entered a dome and were introduced to a beautiful star-filled sky. Dr. Itza navigated the students through the stars of the Northern Hemisphere. Stars appeared in the form of clusters called galaxies. A galaxy contains several million stars. The Milky Way Galaxy was identified among others. The students of Mrs. Harriet’s Astronomy Class witnessed the night sky in different seasons namely January and May. They were able to identify Orion with its deep red star named Betelgeuse and its blue star notably Rigel. Of course, the brightest star in the sky was Sirius, also known as the Dog Star. Thank you, Dr. Itza, for a most informative afternoon.

St. Luke’s Cross Country Team Reveals State Championship Banner

St. Luke’s girl’s cross-country team recently revealed their state championship banner in the gym before the study body and parents. We’re proud of our girls XC team for making history!

Satsuma Student Represents Alabama at Girls Nation

After wrapping up her week as Satsuma High School’s representative to Girls State at Troy University, rising senior Ashland Ross was chosen as one of only two girls in the state to represent Alabama as a delegate at Girls Nation in Washington, D.C. In late July, Ashland went to Montgomery to meet with Governor Ivey and our senators before being flown to the nation’s capital for this amazing opportunity.

ASMS Students Named Winners of World’s Largest K-12 Science Competition for their Innovation to Address Hearing Loss

Two Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) students are national winners of the world’s largest K-12 science competition for their CiliaBuilder innovation to address hearing loss. Gabriel Gurt and Marlan Zha were selected as the 2nd place winners out of 2,000 submissions and 6,000 students for the Toshiba / National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) ExploraVision Competition, a program that has existed since 1992. The ExploraVision competition challenges students to solve real-world problems with a focus on STEM. They are tasked with envisioning a new technology 10 or more years in the future and researching the current science landscape for their solution. Participants are sponsored by a teacher who guides and coaches them through the process of designing, researching, and even analyzing the feasibility of their idea.

Gurt and Zha were coached by ASMS chemistry department faculty member, Dr. Elisa Rambo. They describe that when coming up with their innovation, they were inspired by their love of music and desire to learn more languages. Gurt shares, “We wanted to improve access to the things we love for everyone around the world.” Zha echoes, “Our motivation for the project comes from the fact that by 2050 the World Health Organization predicts that as many as 1 in 4 people will have hearing problems.”

The students submitted a 150-word abstract, 11-page paper description, research bibliography, and 5 sample web pages which communicate and promote their idea. They were named regional ExploraVision winners in April and awarded certificates at the school’s Ann Bedsole Day luncheon. At the luncheon, a representative from the Toshiba Corporation, an ExploraVision sponsor, also surprised the students with the news they had been selected as 1 of just 8 national winners. The students would be invited to Washington, D.C. and will also both receive $5,000 in U.S. savings bonds. Those who wish to learn more about the student’s innovation can visit https://nstawebdirector.wixsite.com/ciliabuilder or watch their video at https://vimeo.com/834173356.

Little Flower Catholic School Students Visit Global Wildlife Center

Little Flower students had the time of their lives on a Safari trip to see a wonderful array of exotic, endangered, and threatened animals from all over the world. On the trip to the Global Wildlife Center, the students fed cows, llamas, bison, longhorn cows, deer, giraffes, and many other animals. Llamas and cows ate from their hands. This is a trip that the students and teachers alike won’t soon forget.

Summer Camps at Cottage Hill Christian

It’s been a busy summer as CHCA has hosted football, softball, basketball, and academic enrichment camps on campus. We are proud of our students and their dedication to continue to improve as students and athletes!

Satsuma High Volleyball Team Wins USMC/AVCA Team Academic Award

The United States Marine Corps and the American Volleyball Coaches Association announced this week that Satsuma High School’s 2022-2023 volleyball team won a USMC/AVCA Team Academic Award. This award honors volleyball teams that maintain a year-long gradepoint average of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale or 4.1 on a 5.0 scale. Satsuma is the only public high school in Mobile County to receive this award! Students pictured left to rightMariah Andry, Madison Lynd, Caleigh Turpin, Kaeden Enzor, Presleigh Montalvo, Kaylee Skidmore, Hayden Andrews, Isabella Gibbons, Shelby Smith, Beatles Byrd, Janie Best and Claira Rice

Autauga County Schools

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Spend Summer Serving in Guatemala

This summer 10 students/faculty spent a week on mission in Guatemala. Throughout the week, they conducted VBS in the mornings and worked in teams distributing shoes and building a classroom for Clubhouse Guatemala. The shoes were from the shoe

UMS-Wright 3rd Graders Celebrate Lemonade Day

To celebrate the end of their class novel, The Lemonade War, our 3rd graders hosted their very own “Lemonade Day” in May! The students put their entrepreneurial skills to the test as each class created a company name, logo, commercial, and banner, all while learning about the importance of customer service!

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

St. Mary Catholic Summer Jumpstart

St. Mary Catholic School students enjoyed two fabulous weeks the of Summer Jumpstart Summer Series from June 19 through June 23 and July 10 through July 14. Students participated in enrichment activities with a focus on reading, writing, math, and science to enhance their curriculum and address learning gaps. Art, playground fun, and daily snacks were also included! Photo by Kortnee Acton. Submitted by Marcelle Naman.

Little Flower Catholic Welcomes New Principal

Mrs. Debbie Ollis took on her new job as principal at Little Flower Catholic School with energy and enthusiasm. Painting her new office, unpacking boxes and hanging pictures were at the top of her to-do list on her first day on the job. She looks forward to an orderly space in the coming days, certain that by the first day of school things will be in tiptop shape.

Incoming Phillips Preparatory Students Attend Pirate Camp

The incoming 6th grade students at Phillips Preparatory had a wonderful experience at our annual Pirate Camp. This camp offers an opportunity for students to learn the routines, understand the rules and procedures, and enjoy mini academic lessons. They also enjoyed games, an ice cream social, and lunch. Welcome to all of our new Pirates!

Autauga County Schools

Acton Academy Mobile Hosts Children’s Business Fair

Acton Academy Mobile hosted their inaugural Children’s Business Fair! Every student created their own business idea from start to finish. From homemade baked goodies and jewelry to face painting and tie-dying, these KIDpreneurs were very successful

St. Ignatius Vacation Bible School was a Faith-filled Hit

St. Ignatius hosted 210 students in June for a week full of faith, formation and fun! This year’s Vacation Bible School theme was “Dreams. Discovering how big God’s dream for you can be”. Students danced, sang, learned bible verses, did arts & crafts, relay races, water stations, and more. Special thanks to Brittany DeFalco and all our parent and teen volunteers for successfully creating a memorable Vacation Bible School week!

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Freshman Serves as Page

This summer, freshman Lillian Strange served as a page for Representative Chip Brown. She was chosen through an application process with the House of Representatives. The duties of a page are varied but normally consist of assisting the members of the House and/or Senate, and certain staff members, by performing errands on the floor of each house and during committee meetings. These errands usually include obtaining copies of bills, resolutions, amendments, substitutes, and other official documents, as well as delivering messages to and from members. She is already looking forward to having the opportunity to participate again next year!

Passing the Baton of Excellence - Welcome Mrs. Corinne Cuffle

St. Mary Catholic School Principal Mrs. Debbie Ollis welcomed in the New Principal, Mrs. Corinne Cuffle during the last week of June. After a week of transition, Mrs. Cuffle has officially taken the reins as the new leader of St. Mary Catholic School. Mrs. Ollis began her duties as the new Principal of Little Flower Catholic School on July 5. St. Mary congratulates both of these outstanding

Autauga County Schools

Field Day at Little Flower School

As a special day set aside for competition and fun, Field Day is made for memories. Teachers and students alike took part in the action at Little Flower’s Field Day.

Spencer Westlawn Elementary Students Study Butterfly Cycle

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

Ms. Colston’s Second Grade Academy Students at Spencer Westlawn Elementary School actively participated in growing butterflies from caterpillars to full-grown Painted Lady Butterflies. Throughout the three-week process, students kept a caterpillar journal and documented their observations. Students engaged in reading AR books about insects, caterpillars, and butterflies in addition to writing expository paragraphs about how butterflies grow. At the end of three weeks, the class watched seven adult butterflies fly from our butterfly habitat into our school flower garden. Spencer Westlawn Elementary School students will always remember our science activities.

MCPSS Students Compete in National Engineering Design Competition

Students from LeFlore and Williamson high schools and Hankins and Lott middle schools traveled to the University of Florida recently to compete in the 2023 SECME national engineering design competition. A team from LeFlore won first place in the AI program for high schools, while Hankins finished second in AI for middle schools. A team from Lott had the highest performance score among middle schools in the mousetrap car competition.

Acton Academy Mobile Explore Outdoor Play Stations

As their second school year approaches, Acton Academy Eagles explore their updated play stations outdoors! Student can now dig, climb, crawl, jump and create during their many outdoor explore times.

Corpus Christi Catholic Teacher Attends Model Schools Conference

Corpus Christi Catholic School fifth grade teacher, Mrs. Hancock is spending some of her summer break at the “Model Schools Conference.“ She loves learning about new ways to improve for the upcoming school year.

Zander Snyman of Phillips Preparatory School (left) received the Outstanding Affiliate Entry Award at the National History Day competition in Maryland last month for his documentary, “Red Coal.” Pictured with him here is fellow award-winner Maleah Beaufort of Stanhope Elmore High in Millbrook.

for the Japonica Campus. Boosterthon

Autauga County Schools

St. Luke’s Tradition, Passing Through the Gates

A favorite tradition at St. Luke’s, Passing Through the Gates: In 9th grade, our students enter the gates as a sign of entering high school. These students will not use these gates until their graduation day. Here, the Class of 2023 seniors sign out and walk to the gates as they are cheered on by faculty and staff. Once everyone has signed, the student body president unlocks the gates as the entire class walks out in front of a large, loud, and proud crowd! We’re so proud of you & will love you forever, Wildcats!

Mobile County Board of School Commissioners Recognizes Student Mentors

At its June meeting, the Mobile County Board of School Commissioners recognized student leaders from the MCPSS Mentor/ Mentoree program. The program empowers students to encourage their peers to turn away from violence, bullying, and drug and alcohol use, and to learn positive life skills. The student mentors who were recognized are Jaden Morrisette and Brandon Greene, Alba Middle; Jamar Martin and Isaiah Johnson, Chastang-Fournier K-8; Bralin Ratcliff, Collins-Rhodes Elementary; Jabraylin Holder, Holloway Elementary; Jaleon White, MCTS; Terell Johnson, Vigor High; and Sha’ Donya Johnson, Williamson High.

St. Mary Mustang Walk

St. Mary welcomed back the 8th grade class of 2019 for the annual Mustang Walk! These class of 2023 high school seniors walked through the hallways of their alma mater, sat in their old desks, reminisced with former teachers, and had fun with the St. Mary students of today for a complete journey home! Submitted by Marcelle Naman.

Cypress Grove Academy Perform Hamlet

“To be, or not to be: that is the question...”

Cypress Grove Academy third graders performed a Renaissance classic, “Hamlet” by Shakespeare, for students and parents in attendance.

Chastang-Fournier K-8 School Unveils New Mural

Chastang-Fournier K-8 School held an official unveiling of a mural created this summer in the school’s gym. Students worked with local artists to design and paint the piece, which features positive traits for students to emulate. The project was the result of a partnership with the Mobile Arts Council and the Alabama State Council on the Arts.

Autauga County Schools Autauga County Schools

UMS-Wright Principal Gets Taped to the Wall

Mrs. Schoenvogel’s Wright Way Character class partnered with Duck Tap to promote the “BE KIND & STICK TOGETHER” challenge. This challenge provides a fun and different way for students to explore the important socialemotional learning concepts of kindness and sticking together to combat bullying and negative behaviors in schools! In Mrs. Schoenvogel’s Wright Way Character class, the Lower School student body was charged to complete a “kindness challenge” this semester. And what happened if they completed the challenge? Lower School Principal Aldridge Marks would be taped to the wall. AND GUESS WHAT - at the end of the school year, it happened!

Corpus Christi Catholic Rising 8th Grader Receive Spirit Shirts

Congratulations to Corpus Christi Catholic School rising 8th grade class, who received the official black spirit shirts at the end of the school year. We know they will lead our school proudly next year.

Heartwood Christian Yearbook Dedication

Congratulations Mrs. Harriet Callahan, the recipient of 2022/2023’s prestigious yearbook dedication award. Mrs. Callahan is Heartwood Christian Academy’s high school science teacher extraordinaire. Mrs. Callahan’s love for science shows in all of her classes. She makes learning fun! Mrs. Callahan is well-known for her extensive qualifications, namely 15 subspecialties, in the field of forensics. Carl and Carlita, the class skeletons, help teach this informative class! Although Mrs. Callahan is renown in the field of forensics. Her astronomy class and chemistry class would award her a 5-star rating too! Next school year, Mrs. Callahan is bringing on the heat with Physics I. Students are signing up for what appears to be an exciting 2023-2024 school year! When not at school, Mrs. Callahan is often seen running around Mobile in one of a myriad of marathons in the area. And if she’s not seen running, you may find her hanging out with her two favorite friends, Carl & Carlita. Heartwood Christian Academy is so blessed to have this amazing teacher, who brings science to life and God to the classroom! We appreciate you so much, Mrs. Callahan!

Alma Bryant High and Causey Middle Archery Teams Post Strong at Nationals

Most people cannot even imagine what it feels like to watch a child take on a battle against cancer. The courage, strength and resilience our patients demonstrate every day is what inspires us to give our best. We are here when families need us the most, caring for their children and never giving up hope in their fight against cancer.

The Alma Bryant High School and Causey Middle Schools archery teams posted strong finishes in national competition this spring. Causey placed first in 3D and fourth in Bull’s Eye in the middle school division in the NASP Open Championships. Bryant, meanwhile, rebounded from a second-place state finish to place second overall in the nation. Its 24 team members each received $750 scholarships from Easton -- a total of $18,000. Two Bryant freshmen, Mia Cornelson and Talah Coleman, placed first and third in the girls’ state rankings, respectively.

Role model. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), traffic accidents remain the leading cause of injury and death among teens, but setting a positive example can help nurture an aware, focused driver.

“We as parents have a great deal of influence in how our children are going to drive by how they see us driving,” says pediatric safety specialist Brad Winfrey, BSN, RN, CPEN, CPST. “That’s why it’s so important that parents role model driving at safe speeds, wearing seatbelts and not driving distracted.”

Teach the MVPs of driving. After working “in the emergency department (at a children’s hospital) for 30 years, I certainly saw the impact of what teen driving, lack of experience and distraction can do to the driver and the passengers,” Winfrey says.

Winfrey teaches young drivers the acronym “MVP”:

Mind - Keep your mind on driving and stay aware of what is happening around you. Pay attention to road signs, traffic lights and construction zones.

Vision - Your eyes should be on the road ahead of you and not elsewhere in the vehicle, like texting on the phone, posting to social media or fiddling with the radio.

Practice - Practice in a variety of weather conditions, roadways, construction areas and especially at night, when visibility is limited and oncoming headlights can be blinding. With evening school activities and part-time jobs, teens frequently drive at night.

From the time they are infants, we take the necessary precautions to protect our kids, but how can we keep them safe once they start driving?

Limit passengers. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that a 16 or 17-year-old’s risk of death per mile rises 44 percent when carrying one passenger younger than 21 and quadruples when transporting three or more passengers under the age of 21. The potential for risk-taking behavior also increases, including not wearing seatbelts, speeding and drinking alcohol.

Many graduated driver’s licensing (GDL) programs, which have been enacted to some degree in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, restrict the number of passengers. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the GDL program has reduced teen crashes by 20 to 40 percent.

Download Life 360. John Lacy, a police officer, recommends the Life 360 app to help you keep track of your teen’s whereabouts. The app also provides crash detection and emergency response and weekly driver reports, highlighting phone usage, acceleration, braking and top speeds.

“Don’t tell your children that they’re being added to Life 360. Just do it,” Lacy says. “Kids are very crafty. If they know that something like that is on their phone, they’ll disable it. Remember, it’s your phone, not your kid’s cell phone.”

If you prefer to be open with your teen about the app, tell them that as a minor on the road, it provides a non-negotiable, additional layer of safety and security.

Educate them about the vehicle. Acquaint your teen with the car’s features like how to turn on the headlights, where the defrost is located, how to turn on windshield wipers, how to open the gas tank and how to fill it. Also, teach them how

to change a tire. (Check the spare tire every three months to ensure it is aired up.)

Under the hood, point out the battery and how to check the oil. Store a roadside emergency kit in the trunk with plastic flare reflectors (available at auto shops and online).

Know the dos and don’ts of roadside assistance. Your teen should contact you and/or the police if they are in a car accident, become stranded or get lost. If they get lost, which isn’t uncommon for new drivers, tell them to call you first.

“It’s okay to call the police if they’re lost, too,” Lacy says. If your teen gets a flat tire, instruct them to call the police first and then you.

“The reason I like an officer there is because the lights provide protection especially at night, and reminds people to

Unfortunately, we don’t always know if a stranger offering help is acting as a good samaritan or has more nefarious intentions. If your teen is stranded, they should wave on those offering help and tell them that the police will arrive shortly.

Manage a traffic stop. Explain to your teen that if they get stopped by the police, they should pull over to the righthand side of the road, into a well-lit parking lot or onto private property to keep them and the officer safe from oncoming traffic.

Traffic stops can be stressful even for adults. Encourage your teen to calmly follow the officer’s instructions. Remind them to keep their hands in plain sight on the steering wheel. Your teen should know where their driver’s license, registration and current insurance card is located inside the vehicle. But, they shouldn’t reach for anything in the car until instructed by the officer.

“The officer will tell you the reason why he stopped you, what he’s looking for, and what he wants,” Lacy says.

After that, the officer will return to his vehicle. “Don’t get out of your vehicle!” Lacy says. “That is the last thing we want you to do. Stay inside the vehicle the entire time and let the officer contact you.”

If your teen suspects that the person pulling them over isn’t a bonafide police officer, they can call 9-1-1 with their location and confirm the traffic stop.

Many police departments record traffic stops. “Kids have a right to record the conversation too,” Lacy says.

If an officer is rude or unprofessional, parents can file a complaint with the department.

Remain patient. Your involvement and patient guidance will help your teen become a safe driver.

“A lot of people immediately want to jump on the bandwagon and say that teens are bad drivers. It’s not necessarily true,” Winfrey says. “They just don’t have experience. With experience, comes better driving skills and better driving habits.”

Sources: Ofc. John Lacy; Brad Winfrey, BSN, RN, CPEN, CPST

eelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines, is the mom of two sons. She and her husband are on the first leg of the teen driver journey with their eldest and wish all fellow parent passengers and their driving teens happy and safe travels!

Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases

Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part One

The Entity, a military AI program, has gone rogue and is controlling the world’s digital assets from its position in a downed Russian submarine. It can only be overcome by a two-part key, so Ethan and his team set out to find both parts Every major power on earth wants to get the keys – and so do other bad actors. This film doesn’t measure up to the rest of the franchise, being both incoherent and bloated. The expected action elements are derivative, and the pacing drags through a nearly three hour runtime. And it’s only Part One. Photo ©Paramount Pictures

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny

Indiana Jones and his goddaughter, Helena, are on a quest for Archimedes’ Dial, an ancient artefact reputed to predict astrological events. Also on the hunt is a Nazi scientist named Voller, who intends to retroactively change the outcome of World War II Harrison Ford may well be getting old, but this film shows that he’s still got enough charisma to helm a major action movie. And this is a good one: despite a clumsy ending, this is a fast-paced action flick with enough nostalgia to please franchise fans. Photo © Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Ruby Gillman: Teenage Kraken

When Ruby takes an unexpected dip in the ocean, she learns the truth about herself and her family. She’s a kraken, granddaughter of the Queen of the Krakens, and destined to become a powerful guardian of the sea – if she can avoid monsterhunting sailors and crafty mermaids. This movie provides 90 minutes of decent storytelling, solid animation and reassuring messages about self-acceptance. It also features memorable voice talent, with a particularly fine contribution from Jane Fonda. What it lacks is any sense of magic Photo ©Universal Pictures

After spending 12 years tracking down child predators, Tim Ballard is on a mission to save trafficked children – and one little girl in particular When the government revokes his authorization over concerns about funding and jurisdiction, he goes solo through the jungles and criminal underworld of Colombia. This movie highlights a serious problem and gives a voice to abused children. Unfortunately, it offers simplistic solutions and, despite sensitive filming, feels borderline exploitative. Photo ©Angel Studios

Ballister Boldheart is ready to become the first commoner to be knighted – until disaster strikes and he must flee into the forest. Determined to clear his name and save the kingdom, he joins forces with Nimona, a shapeshifter with a thirst for vengeance. This is a beautifully animated film with expansive world-building and a deeply layered story. Parents will want to be aware of some fantasy violence and a same-sex kiss when considering it for family viewing. Photo ©Netflix

I am not a morning person. Life at home with my toddlers used to be filled with mornings cuddling in PJs. Arriving at preschool on time was a challenge; I was often late. When my son started kindergarten, I was determined to get my act together and break the cycle. I gleaned ideas from the web, talked to other moms and put a system in place. I use these tips to get up and out the door in 45 minutes each morning.

Use Sunday Wisely

Think ahead and prepare for the week on Sunday; it helps save time in the long run.

1. Bag snacks, fruits and veggies for the week to save time on busy sports practice and running-around days. Doing this in advance also gives you a head’s up if stocking up on lunchbox staples is necessary, thereby avoiding last-minute shopping trips.

2. Use an organizing system to put together school outfits for the week. I bought a hanging system for my son’s closet with a compartment for each day. Every Sunday, we check the weather for the upcoming week and put outfits in each compartment. Sometimes my son wants to choose his clothes; sometimes he lets me choose. There is never an argument, question, or decision to make about what to wear in the morning.

3. Put an organizing system by the door for shoes and backpacks. Professional organizers often recommend an area with hooks for backpacks and a rack below for shoes. Having homework and permission slips ready in the backpack the night before is crucial.

The Night Before

4. Make lunches the night before. This includes filling water bottles.

5. Set the table for breakfast after doing the dinner dishes. You’re already in the kitchen; getting it all done at once makes sense.

In the Morning

6. Keep breakfast simple. Cereal with toast, yogurt or fruit keeps us on the go. Try to sit down and have breakfast as soon as the kids get up. This avoids the grab-and-go breakfast that research shows can lead to obesity. It also helps avoid last-minute spills on school clothes that could cause a meltdown for kids or parents.

Try this savvy breakfast trick: Always bake a double batch of muffins and freeze the extras. That way, the kids can just take one out and warm it in the microwave.

If you have a picky eater who wants a hot breakfast, try toaster waffles, make-ahead egg muffins or bagels.

7. Have your child use an alarm clock. We bought a Yoda alarm clock and gave it to our son as a present as he entered kindergarten. He was excited by the unexpected gift and in turn, was excited to use it. I was amazed when he skipped into the dining room each morning at 6:15 a.m., ready to start his day.

8. Most parents agree with this rule: No electronics before school. They are way too distracting.

9. With older children, get creative! A fun way to get tweens out of bed and moving is to turn on music in their rooms. Make it nice and loud and then sing and dance (if necessary), substituting words with phrases about waking up and getting moving. Groans may soon turn into laughter and they start preparing for the school day.

There is no magic and no two families are alike. Figure out what works for your family, then put a system in place. Planning ahead will help start the day in a more positive, less frazzled way.

Cherie Gough is a contributing writer.

MBP

Art

Alabama Contemporary Art Center

301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602

We offer many opportunities for children and their families to connect with contemporary art throughout the year.

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

Coastal Makers

70 N Joachim St Ste F Mobile, 36602

Coastal Makers allows anyone and any age to express their creativity through a variety of mediums, tools, textiles & techniques in a fun mess-making environment!

(251) 455-2909 coastalmakers@gmail.com

www.coastalmakers.com

Mobile Museum of Art

4850 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608

Classes for all ages including family classes, teen art, kids’ and toddler and preschool sessions.

(251) 208-5200 angela.king@mobilemuseumofart.com www.mobilemuseumofart.com

Mobile Parks and Rec. Activities

Art, Music, Sports, Dance, Gymnastics, Educational Classes and more.

(251) 208-1607 www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Round But Square Studios:

A Children’s Art Studio

3304 Old Shell Road Suite C Mobile, 36608

Our mission is to empower people to live artful lives, develop creative confidence, and experi-

ence self-expression through creating. We are a Process Art Studio.

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

Dance

Broadway South Dance Studio ad on page 26

7906 Westside Park Drive Mobile, 36695

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

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

Debbie’s School Of Dance ad on page 35

6429 Hillcrest Park Court Mobile, 36695

Dance classes for ages 2 – 18. Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Tumbling, Hip Hop, Pointe, Contemporary. We have a state-of-the-art studio equipped with 3 large studios, sprung Marley floors, and more accomodations for our dancers and parents. Register for FALL at debbiesdance.com.

(251) 633-9559 debbiesdance2@bellsouth.net www.debbiesdance.com

Gale’s Studio of Dance, Inc. ad on page 37

6345 Airport Blvd (Piccadilly Square/Same Shopping Center as Buffalo Wild Wings), 36608

Celebrating our 42nd Dance Season. Classes

for ages 2 & Up | Offering ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical, character, hip hop, acrobatics and Tip Toes & Tumbling. The 2023 - 2024 Fall Dance Classes begin Wednesday, August 23. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @ GalesStudioofDance. Register online: GalesStudioofDance.com.

(251) 343-9544 www.galesstudioofdance.com

Mobile Ballet Inc. ad on page 38

4351 Downtowner Loop North Mobile, 36609

Recognized as the region’s premier school and performing company. Studios in Mobile and Daphne. Classical ballet, contemporary, modern, Broadway-style jazz, tap, and more. Under the direction of Katia Garza, our faculty has extensive performance and teaching experience, enabling us to offer a complete curriculum of pre-ballet to pre-professional levels, including adult classes. Registration available online.

(251) 342-2241 info@mobileballet.org

www.mobileballet.org

Robinson’s School Of Dance ad on page 13

421 Highway 43 North Saraland, 36571

We offer the best in Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical, Contemporary, Musical Theater, Hip Hop, Baton, and Acrobats. Robinson’s is home of the award winning “Lynn Robinson Dancers” who have won many local and national competitions.

(251) 675-5915 www.robinsonsschoolofdance.com

Sheffield School of the Dance ad on page 19

1901 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36606

Celebrating over 80 Years of Excellence! Mobile & Baldwin’s #1 choice in dance. 6x Nappie Award winner. Age 3 thru Adult. Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Tap and Acro. Become part of the #SheffieldLegacy!

(251) 219-7877 info@sheffielddance.net

www.sheffielddance.com

Sheffield School of the Dance ad on page 19

4570 Hermitage Avenue Mobile, 36619

Celebrating over 80 Years of Excellence! Mobile & Baldwin’s #1 choice in dance. 6x Nappie Award winner. Age 3 thru Adult. Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Tap and Acro. Become part of the #SheffieldLegacy!

(251) 219-7877 info@sheffielddance.net

www.sheffielddance.com

CC Dance Studio and Company

2560 Leroy Stevens Road Mobile, 36695

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

(251) 639-1106 www.ccdancestudioandcompany. com/cc-contact-us.htm

Classical Ballet of Mobile

4621 Spring Hill Avenue, Suite C Mobile, 36608

Nurturing a love of classical ballet through superb training, artistic excellence, and wholesome performance opportunities for Pre-Ballet through Advanced dancers in this season’s “The Nutcracker” and “Coppéila”.

(251) 410-4477 academy@classicalballetmobile.org

www.classicalballetmobile.org

Dance Academy of West Mobile

3456 Hillcrest Road Mobile, 36695

The Dance Academy of Mobile embraces all things creative! We specialize in all genres of dance and other skills essential in the performing arts.

(251) 209-7774 www.thedanceacademyofmobile.net

Dance Without Limits

4715 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608

Offering dance classes exclusively to the special needs community! Preschool through adults. All dancers will perform at a recital!

(251) 610-4969 www.dancewithoutlimitsfoundation.org

Grace Dance Center

208 Saraland Blvd S Suite F3 Saraland, 36571

Our goal is to not only teach the art of dance, but to ignite a passion and love of dance within a Christian conservative atmosphere.

(251) 234-7982 www.gdcdance.com

How Fine Arts Program

10160 Airport Blvd Building E Mobile, 36608

HOW offers Drama, Dance, Tumbling, Art, Music, Film. We teach technique but more importantly we want the students to learn how to use their gifts to honor the Lord.

251-895-5380 www.how-mobile.com

Jubilee School of Dance

6245 Old Rangeline Road Theodore, 36582

Our vision is to offer instruction in various forms and style of dance for children and young adult. We offer classes in classical ballet, tap, lyrical, and pre-dance.

jubileeschool.dance@gmail.com

Kelly’s Dance Academy

9420 Alabama 188 Irvington, 36544

Kelly’s Dance Academy is a national award winning studio, home to numerous National Champions, and has been teaching students the love and art of dance.

(251) 605-3960 www.facebook.com/KDA5678

Maccrossan School of Irish Dance

We teach kids of all ages the traditional jigs, reels, hornpipes, and ceili dances of the beautiful art form that is Irish dancing.

(251) 239-2422 maccrossanirishdance@yahoo.com

Melinda Leigh Performing Arts Center

6641 Moffett Road Mobile, 36618

Highly trained staff who have your child’s best interest at heart! Our studio features two spacious dance rooms with many classes offered to fit your busy schedule!

(251) 649-6361 www.facebook.com/melindaleighdance

Mobile Bay Dance Academy, Inc.

3055 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36607 Mobile Bay Dance Academy Inc. is committed to providing professional dance instruction inspiring self awareness and self discipline through the passion and love of dance.

(251) 455-3044 info@mobilebaydanceacademy.com

www.mobilebaydanceacademy.com

Next Generation Dance Center

5721 Hwy 90 West, Suite C Theodore, 36582

Promoting self-worth, discipline, and self-expression through the art of dance.

(251) 591-9899 www.nextgenerationdancecenter.net

Precision Dance Academy

168 Noel Street Mobile, 36607

Starting our dancers at 2 years old, Your Child’s individual progress is our main Focus. Proud home of the Advanced National Champion Dance Company- The Precision Divas! All Dance Styles, Beginner to Advanced. (251) 308-8252 theprecisiondancecompany@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/ThePrecision.DanceCompany

Rhythm Dance Center

2355 Snow Road Semmes, 36575

We offer recreational classes as well as an outstanding performance team. We welcome students from the age of 2 & up into our studio.

(251) 776-8603 Find us on Facebook

Robinson’s School of Dance: Bayou Studio

8665 Four Mile Road Irvington, 36544

Offering the best in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Baton, Hip Hop, Acrobatics and Cheer. (Ages 2 and up). Come join our national award-winning studio! (251) 455-1866 robinsonsbayoustudio@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/Robinsonsbayoustudio/

The Dance Academy of West Mobile 3456 Hillcrest Road, Bldg B5 Mobile, 36695

Our mission is to give our students, a solid foundation in dance technique while encouraging creativity and self-expression.

(251) 209-7774 www.thedanceacademyofmobile.net

Turning Point Dance Academy

7450 Three No?tch Road Mobile, 36619

We are a conservative studio that gives each child the individual attention that they deserve. At TPDA every child is a star!

(251) 602-8900 tpdadancefamily@gmail.com

www.tpdadancefamily.com

Education - STEMTutoring

Class 101 Mobile

ad on page 5

1555 S University Blvd, Ste 101 Mobile, 36609

We help high school students navigate the college application process and qualify for higher amounts of scholarships and financial aid. Your partner for college planning, admissions, test preparation, and scholarships.

(251) 450-8141 tchilds@class101.com www.class101.com/mobileal/

Huntington Learning Center ad on Inside Front Cover

2370 Hillcrest Road #D Mobile, 36695

After school, students attend tutoring to build stronger academic skills so they will be more confident & motivated to succeed in school. We teach reading, writing & math for grades K-12. We offer ACT & SAT Prep, 1:1 with highly qualified teachers, for students trying to qualify for scholarships or college admission. Call 251-525-9238 to learn more.

(251) 525-9239 www.huntingtonhelps.com

Read-Write: The Learning Center

ad on page 16

4308 Downtowner Loop N Mobile, 36609

Read-Write specializes in academic language therapy for students with dyslexia and other learning disabilities, including math. One-on-one, intensive instruction during and after school hours.

Also serving North Mobile, Jackson and Grove Hill areas at our satellite offices.

(251) 287-1822 mobileoffice@readwritelearning center.com www.readwritelearningcenter.com

USA Literacy Center

ad on page 18

UCOM 3138 Mobile, 36688

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

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

All About Sewing

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

(251) 634-3133 www.allaboutsewinginc.com

Bloom Play Studio

2561 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36607

Now offering an after-school Kids Cooking program for children ages 3-10. Classes also include STEM lessons, slime-making, sensory/ messy play, crafts and much more! Follow us on Instagram/Facebook for more information.

(251) 298-6389 www.bloomplaystudio.com

Gulf Coast Young Engineers

Offering engineering robotics STEM after-school enrichment programs and workshops. Grades 3-6. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram.

(251) 454-0570 gulfcoast@e2youngengineers.com

Lindamood-Bell Learning

2864 Dauphin Street, Suite D Mobile, 36606

Lindamood-Bell helps children and adults improve language processing—the foundation of all communication and learning.

(251) 473-6808 www.lindamoodbell.com/location/ mobile-al-learning-center

Mathnasium

7721 Airport Boulevard E-130 Mobile, 36608

Mathnasium of Mobile helps kids in grades K-12 understand math by teaching in a way that makes sense to them.

(251) 490-8890 mobile@mathnasium.com www.mathnasium.com/mobile

Philip Martin ACT Prep

Philip Martin, a certified ACT educator with over 500 hours of in-person ACT preparation experience, offers classes in Mobile and Fairhope.These classes are designed to prepare teenagers to do their best on an upcoming ACT exam. philipmartinact@gmail.com www.philipmartinact.com

Sewing with Miss Kathy

6103 Southbend Drive South Mobile, 36619

Teaching the love of sewing to all ages. Lrn2sewmobile@gmail.com www.Sewingwith misskathy.com

STARTSMART College BoundCareer Ready

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

(251) 767-5446 info@startsmartcollegebound.org

Find us on Facebook

The Smartatorium

4505 Old Shell Rd Mobile, 36608

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

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

The Think Tank Tutoring

One-on-one tutoring for grades K-12 in ALL Subjects. ADHD Coaching, homework help, test prep and more. Get a head start on school struggles before they begin!

251-300-9697 thinktankminds@gmail.com www.thinktankminds.com

Gymnastics

Cottage Hill Gymnastics Center

1711 Hillcrest Road Mobile, 36695

Cottage Hill Gymnastics Center offers various recreational gymnastics classes for children of differing ability levels and ages. 18 months - high school.

(251) 533-8645 www.facebook.com/cottage.hill. gymnastics.center/

Mrs Lisa’s Gym & Cheer

144 East I-65 Service Road North Mobile, 36607

We offer Recreational Tumbling Classes, Competitive Cheer Teams, School Cheer Team Tumbling and Private Lessons. Classes are for all ages 1 & up, Homeschool classes available.

(251) 471-9708 mrslisasalabamajags@comcast.net

Find us on Facebook

Ms. Daphne’s CheerNastics

102 Baker Road Satsuma, 36572

Classes for all levels of Tumbling and Cheerleading! (251) 599-2205 or (251) 675-3322

Find us on Facebook

Nasser Gymnastics and Cheerleading

3055 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36607

Nasser Gymnastics is proud to have served Mobile for over 50 years! With small class sizes and positive reinforcement, Nasser Gymnastics provides a fun, safe, and progressive environment for all students! (251) 479-9311 www.nassergym.net

Planet Gymnastics

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

Rogue Allstars

8700 Zeigler Boulevard Mobile, 36608

We offer classes, all star cheer, team cheer classes, open gym and birthday parties. (251) 634-0203 www.rogueallstars.com/mobile

HorseBack Riding

Mimi C. Peters Riding School at Silver Lining Farm

10727 El Nina Drive Mobile, 36608

SLF offers English riding lessons to children four years and up. We teach safety, grooming and riding. our school horses are safe! Please come visit

our beautiful farm and horses! Email to set up a visit or call for more information.

(251) 634-1229 horses@silverliningfarm.net

www.silverliningfarm.net

Sandstone Equestrian Center

9450-A Jeff Hamilton Road Mobile, 36695

Our lesson program is open to riders of all ages and experience levels. We specialize in dressage and eventing while teaching the basics of English riding.

(251) 633-8088 www.sandstoneequestriancenter.com

Starlight Stables

11635 Dick Turner Road Grand Bay, 36541

We are the home of Toni’s ponies and party services! We offer lessons in western style riding.

(251) 391-4268 www.starlightstables.weebly.com

Martial Arts

Inner Strength Martial Arts ad on page 26

9120 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608

Our After School Program handles all your child’s needs. If your workplace keeps you late, we’ll pick your child up from school. We offer fun games, activities, homework help and Taekwondo classes to keep your child active and occupied.

(251) 776-1978 www.ismartialarts.com

McLean’s Martial Arts & Fitness ad on page 8

1490 Celeste Road Saraland, 36571

We offer highly specialized martial arts classes for

children and adults taught by nationally certified instructors.

(251) 675-9662 www.mcleansmartialarts.com

MAX3 KIDS

2410 Dawes Rd Mobile, 36695

Mobile, Alabama’s #1 choice for Summer Camp, After School and Martial Arts! Our students learn character building life skills, tumbling, indoor/outdoor activities, and martial arts!

(251) 307-5676 dawes@max3training.com

www.max3kids.com

MAX3 KIDS

1261 Hillcrest Road Mobile, 36695

Mobile, Alabama’s #1 choice for Summer Camp, After School and Martial Arts! Our students learn character building life skills, tumbling, indoor/outdoor activities, and martial arts!

(251) 633-5808 hillcrest@max3training.com

www.max3kids.com

Port City Combat Sports

7335 Airport Blvd., Ste A Mobile, 36695

A place where kids and families can learn martial arts, self-defence, get in shape, improve their self-confidence, and gain life skills such as how to become a leader and control their emotions. Contact us for a free introductory class.

(251) 470-0903 portcitycombatsports@gmail.com www.pckickboxing.com

Shaolin Institute

704 Lakeside Drive Mobile, 36693

Martial Arts School

(251) 662-3225 www.shaolin-world.net

Springhill Taekwondo

2029 Airport Blvd. Suite G Mobile, 36606

Our unique approach to Martial Arts instruction provides TKD classes for all ages in Mobile with positive results specific to each individual student’s needs.

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

Music

Full Scale School of Music/ Azalea City Center For the Arts

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63 Midtown Park East Mobile, 36606

Classes and private lessons for those interested in learning an instrument. Daniel Driskell, Directorpiano, guitar, bass, mandolin, saxophone, clarinet, flute/Angela Rayburn – piano/David White - drums, percussion/Joshua Ward - guitar, bass/Laryssa Burgess, piano/Natalie Blackburn - violin, viola, cello/Shane Philen - woodwinds, music theory and piano/Elizabeth Weaver - violin and cello. (251) 454-6591 fullscaleschool@gmail.com www.fullscaleschool.com

Andy’s Music Inc.

1412 Hillcrest Road Mobile, 36695

We are a full-line musical instrument store in Mobile offering lessons, rentals, instrument repair, and a complete music department. (251) 633-8944 www.andysmusiconline.com

Broussard’s Academy of Music

3154 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, 36606

We offer a state of the art piano academy; all of our teachers are accredited members of the local

music teachers association, and have multiple years’ experience teaching.

(251) 344-8856 www.broussardspianos.com/ academy

Christ UMC - Kindermusik

6101 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609

Trusted. Proven. Educational. And of course, fun! Our studio is proud to offer Kindermusik, the world’s leading provider of music and movement programs for young children!

(251) 510-1103 www.kindermusikatchristunited.com

Mobile Music Teachers Association

Mobile Music Teachers Association is an organization of professional teachers offering piano, strings, theory, organ, voice, violin, cello and early childhood music. Information on teachers available online.

www.mobilemta.org

Mobile School of Piano

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

(251) 209-5352 www.mobileschoolofpiano.com

Mobile Symphony Strings in Schools, String Academy and Chamber Strings

Mobile & Eastern Shore

The Mobile Symphony offers during and after school strings in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Several wonderful opportunities for any string instrument and level. More information at www. mobilesymphony.org.

(251) 432-2010 daniela@mobilesymphony.org

www.mobilesymphony.org

Mobile’s Singing Children

Premier youth choir on the Gulf Coast. Students in grades 2nd-12th perform choral music in four ageappropriate ensembles. To schedule your audition, please call 251-285-2285 or email mobilesingingchildren@gmail.com.

(251) 285-2285 mobilesingingchildren@gmail.com www.mobilesingingchildren.org

Performing Arts

Azalea City Center For the Arts

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63 Midtown Park East Mobile, 36606

Mobile’s all-Inclusive home for the creative kid; theater, music, dance, gymnastics, voice and more. Class listing available online. Drama classes taught by Sunny Side Theater and Actor’s Edge Studio; Music lessons and Rock Band taught by Full Scale School of Music, Private voice lessons with Dr. Allanda Small, Anna Fillingim, Michael Devery, & Dylan Farnell; Gymnastics classes with Chelle Ferguson, Dance classes with Rebekah Howard, Irish Step dancing with Macrossan Irish Step Dance. (251) 510-1808 azaleacity@mindspring.com www.azaleacityarts.org

Sunny Side Theater/Actor’s Edge

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63 Midtown Park East Mobile

Sunny Side Theater offers a variety of after-school drama, dance, and gymnastics classes for all ages. Classes age 4 through high school. Actor’s Edge Studio directed by Eric Browne will offer advanced level acting classes. Main stage produc-

tions for the year include Fantastic Mr. Fox, Mean Girls: High School Edition, A Christmas Carol, Winnie the Pooh, & Anastasia.

(251) 510-1808 dramacamp@mindspring.com

www.sunnysidedrama.com

Playhouse in the Park

4851 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608

A comprehensive training program of drama, dance, vocal, piano, guitar, and scenic art classes; and an elaborate, full-scale puppet theatre.

(251) 422-5434 www.playhouseinthepark.org

The PACT Theatre Company

5025 Cottage Hill Rd. Mobile, 36609

Our program specialize in teaching acting, dance, vocal training, theatre, and college & audition prep. Our productions are open to those in 1st Grade-Adults. We run three-four productions a semester at all different age levels.

(251) 307-5056 office@thepactmobile.com

www.thepactmobile.com

Scouting

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama

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3483 Springhill Avenue Mobile, 36608

Transform ideas into actions, questions into adventures, and grow confidence through practice, every step of the way. With programming across 30 counties, GSSA offers every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of leadership, adventure, and success.

(800) 239-6636 customercare@girlscoutssa.org

www.girlscoutssa.org

Boy Scouts of America

2587 Government Boulevard Mobile, 36606

Our goal is to train youth in responsible citizenship, character development, and self-reliance through participation in a wide range of outdoor activities, educational programs, and, at older age levels, career-oriented programs.

(251) 476-4600 mary.phillips@scouting.org

www.bsamac.org

Sports

Christ United Methodist Church Sports

6101 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609

The mission of C-Sports is to offer Christ-centered character building, self-esteem, skill enhancing instruction, and spiritual nurturing to children and families in our community. As a sports program we will always strive to increase skill development, game strategy, game rules, and enjoyment of sports. Sports: Baseball (spring), Flag Football (summer), Soccer (fall), Basketball (winter), Cheerleading (winter), Volleyball (late winter-early spring) (251) 706-3326 marcia.gibney@christunited.com

www.christunitedcsports.com

City of Mobile Swim Assoc. (CMSA)

CMSA is a year round swimming team offering programs to all ages and abilities, novice to Olympic level.

(251) 422-0011 www.swimcmsa.com

Cottage Hill Tennis Center

1711 Hillcrest Road Mobile, 36695

Ten-court facility. All lighted, all hard court. Professional instruction on-site.

(251) 666-9539 www.mobiletenniscenter.net/contact

Empire Athletics

246 Jacintoport Blvd

Saraland, 36571

A training facility that focuses on high quality cheer and tumbling instruction. We also have camps, clinics and classes.

(251) 620-9780 www.empireathleticstraining.com

Greater Pensacola

Figure Skating Club

201 East Gregory Street Pensacola, 32502

Master the fundamentals of figure skating or hockey! Group lessons & private coaching for ages 3 to adult, beginners to competitors & skat ers with disabilities. Season runs October-April. Visit our website to register. Skaters from Mobile, AL to Panama City, FL. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram!

850-400-3222 info@pensacolafigureskating.com www.pensacolafigureskating.com

Heisler Heat Baseball

5017B Cottage Hill Rd Mobile, 36609

Private hitting/pitching instruction for baseball AND softball athletes,-Travel baseball, Speed and Agility classes and Strength development classes. (251) 414-0040 heislerheat@gmail.com www.heislerheatbaseball.com

High Velocity Sports

2513 Leroy Stevens Road Mobile, 36695

A sports training facility offering Sports Perfor-

We are on the

MOBILE BALLET is thrilled to announce our Eastern Shore studio will be moving to a new and more convenient space designed to elevate your dance experience to extraordinary heights. At both our Mobile and Eastern Shore locations, we provide ample opportunities for dancers of all ages and skill levels to connect, grow, and thrive in an inspiring and inclusive environment.

FamilyCalendar

Thursday August 3

Jennifer Claire Moore FoundationAnnual Rodeo

6:00 PM Foley Horse Arena, 113 East Rosetta Ave Foley, AL Our Rodeo features 8 nightly events including Bareback Bronc Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling, Break Away Roping, Barrel Racing, Team Roping and Bull Riding. The Rodeo kicks off each night at 8:00pm with children’s activities beginning nightly at 6:00pm. https://jennifermoorefoundation.com/

Free Family Movie Night at West End Beach

(Free) Dusk West End Beach, Dauphin Island, AL Free Movies begin at DUSK. Movie-Toy Story www.townofdauphinisland.org

Friday August 4

Jennifer Claire Moore FoundationAnnual Rodeo Details on August 3.

Playhouse in the Park presents “Mary Poppins”

7:30 PM Playhouse in the Park, 4851 Museum Dr Mobile, AL, 36608 Mary Poppins will run on weekends

July 14 through August

6 Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 Sundays at 2:30. Tickets are $20 for adults 18 for students, children, and seniors. http://playhouseinthepark.org/

Free Family Movie Night at West End Beach

(Free) Dusk West End Beach, Dauphin Island, AL Free Family Movie Night—Movies begin at DUSK. Movie-The Little Mermaid www.townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday August 5

Lunch Cruise ($45.99 adults/$35.99 kids 12 and under)

10:30 AM Historic Blakeley State Park, Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Departing from the Blakeley Dock at 10:30 am. we’ll venture through one of the nation’s most biodiverse ecosystems as we wind our way to the popular Bluegill Restaurant on the Mobile Causeway. http://www.blakeleypark.com

Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation - Annual Rodeo Details on August 3.

Playhouse in the Park presents “Mary Poppins”

7:30 PM Details on August 4.

Sunday August 6

Mr. Bellingrath’s Birthday

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 In honor of Mr. Bellingrath’s Birthday, admission to the Gardens is free to all Mobile and Baldwin County residents on this date.

251-973-2217 https://bellingrath.org/

Playhouse in the Park presents “Mary Poppins”

2:30 PM Details on August 4.

Saenger Theatre Classic Movie Series

3:00 PM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 S Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Tuesday August 8

Art with Ms. Jennifer 4:00 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join Ms. Jennifer as she shows

you how to draw and paint using watercolor and oil pastels.

251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday August 10

United Way of Southwest Alabama

Annual Meeting

11:00 AM - 1:30 PM, The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel , 26 North Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602

This year’s event promises to be an inspiring gathering as we welcome keynote speaker Ron Ferguson, Ph.D., founder and president of The Basics. Dr. Ferguson, a renowned economist and researcher, has dedicated his career to studying factors that affect educational achievement, with a particular focus on the achievement gap in the United States and strategies to improve schools and identify effective teachers. https://uwswa.org/annual-meeting-23/

Free Family Movie Night at West End Beach (Free) Dusk West End Beach, Dauphin Island, AL Movies begin at DUSK. Movie-Ella Enchanted www.townofdauphinisland.org

Friday August 11

Kids Back to School Bash-Christ United Methodist Church

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Christ United Methodist Church, 6101 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Kick-off the school year with a big bash in our Christ Center Gym. We will have inflatables, a food truck and fellowship. It is a great way to spend time with friends and to meet new families.

https://christunited.com/

Roll Mobile

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Bienville Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Once again, we’re closing off the streets and turning Bienville Square into a giant roller rink from 6-9pm! We’ll have lights, a live DJ, and even more Roll Mobile merch for sale

Sunset Cruise from Five Rivers Delta Resource Center ($13.50/adults and $9.50/kids ages 6-12)

7:00 PM Bartram Landing at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Come along on a brief relaxing voyage departing from the Bartram Landing at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center as we experience nature’s splendor and be back in time to grab a seafood dinner on the Causeway http://www.blakeleypark.com

Free Family Movie Night at West End Beach (Free) Dusk West End Beach, Dauphin Island, AL Free Family Movie Night—Movies begin at DUSK. Movie-Lilo and Stitch

www.townofdauphinisland.org

Reggae Weekend Green Park, 302 Lemoyne Drive Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Rnjoy music, vendors, childrens activities. www.eventbrite.com/e/7th-annual-dauphin-island-alreggae-weekend-tickets-635605692737

Saturday August 12

Living History Crew Drill

8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Come see history come to life with our WWII historical reenactors. Activities, demonstrations and meet and greets. Be on the deck of the USS ALABAMA at 1:00 p.m. for the call to battle stations 251-433-2703 www.ussalabama.com

Satsuma 2-Miler

7:30 AM Satsuma Community Center, 368 Juniper Ave Satsuma, AL, 36582 Satsuma 2-Miler

https://portcitypacers.com/satsuma-2-miler/

Kids Fishing (Free for overnight guests, veterans, and children 12 and under $3 park entry fee for those over 12)

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Meaher State Park-Alabama, 5200 Battleship Pkwy Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at Meaher State Park for a fun morning of fishing with our naturalist! Bait will be provided, and we will have a few extra fishing poles for folks to use. Please bring your personal poles if you have them, as we will not have enough extras for everyone. Kids 15 and under do not need a fishing license, but anyone 16+ wishing to take part must have a freshwater fishing license. These can be purchased at www.outdooralabama.com www.outdooralabama.com

Delta Discovery Tour from Five Rivers Delta Resource Center ($21/adults and $14/kids ages 6-12)

1:00 PM Bartram Landing at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 These 90-minute excursions into the wild and scenic Mobile-Tensaw Delta--known as the “American Amazon,”--introduce visitors and residents alike to a truly astounding natural habitat. Cruises depart from the Bartram Landing at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center. http://www.blakeleypark.com

50th Experience Featuring Tasha Cobbs Leonard & The Mississippi Mass Choir

5:00 PM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 El Bethel Primitive Baptist Church presents the 50th Experience Featuring Tasha Cobbs Leonard & The Mississippi Mass Choir https://bit.ly/bethel50

Reggae Weekend

Details on August 11.

Sunday August 13

Saenger Theatre Classic Movie Series

3:00 PM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Summer Classic Movie Series - August 13-To Kill a Mockingbird https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Reggae Weekend

Details on August 11.

Tuesday August 15

Craft Time

3:30 PM Virginia Dillard Smith/Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL, 36617 Craft Day- Spaghetti/Marshmallow Tower 251-494-4982 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wednesday August 16

Great Movie Adventure - “The Bad Guys”

3:30 PM Virginia Dillard Smith/Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL, 36617 Join us at Toulminville Branch for movies and snacks! Today’s film will be The Bad Guys www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday August 17

2023 Business EXPO ($5)

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for Mobile’s largest business-to-business trade show. More than 200 exhibitors will be showcasing the latest products and services, along with business resources, food & beverage samples from local vendors, and more.

FamilyCalendar

Kid’s Bop Karaoke

4:00 PM Virginia Dillard Smith/Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL, 36617 It’s Karaoke Time! Come and have fun singing your favorite songs with us at the Toulminville Branch! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Friday August 18

Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents 9 to 5

7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 S Carlen St Mobile, AL, 36606 Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents 9 to 5 - August 18- September 2, 2023 251-471-1534 http://www.joejeffersonplayers.com/

Saturday August 19

Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents 9 to 5 Details on August 18.

Sunday August 20

Brides Just Wanna Have Fun Summer Bridal Expo

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for the Brides Just Wanna Have Fun Summer Bridal Show 2023 at the Mobile Convention Center. Door prizes, grand prizes and everything you can imagine to plan your perfect wedding.

Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents 9 to 5

2:00 PM Details on August 18.

Saenger Theatre Classic Movie Series

3:00 PM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Pirates of the Caribbean https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Thursday August 24

Make A Craft - Button Maker

1:00 PM Virginia Dillard Smith/Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL, 36617 Come have fun and make a craft with Toulminville very own Button Maker. You can create your own personalized button to wear. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Friday August 25

Women’s Leadership Conference

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, GulfQuest Maritime Museum, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us as we discuss building confidence, financial wealth, and social media presence/branding. Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith will serve as the keynote speaker and plans to give insight into building resilience. The event will include door prizes, networking, vendors, and more! business.saralandchamber.com

Vintage Market Days of Mobile Fall 2023

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Rd N Mobile, AL, 36608 Vintage Market Days® is an upscale, vintage-inspired, indoor/outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, food trucks, seasonal plantings, and a little more. vintagemarketdays.com/market/mobile/index.php

The City of Mobile Parks and Recreation Department presents FNL: Friday Night Live 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Medal of Honor Park, 1711 Hillcrest Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 A free, family evening of Live Rock & Reggae Music https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events/fridaynight-live-august-2023

Seafood Buffet Dinner Cruise ($59.99 adults and $49.99 kids under 12)

7:15 PM Bartram Landing at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Take in a beautiful Mobile Bay sunset and a relaxing cruise on the waters of the lower Mobile-Tensaw Delta combined with a buffet dinner at the Original Oyster House http://www.blakeleypark.com

Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents 9 to 5 7:30 PM Details on August 18.

Saturday August 26

Vintage Market Days of Mobile Fall 2023

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Rd N Mobile, AL, 36608 Vintage Market Days® is an upscale, vintage-inspired, indoor/outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, food trucks, seasonal plantings, and a little more. vintagemarketdays.com/market/mobile/index.php

Arthur Ashe Kids Day 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Lyons Park Tennis Center, 180 Lyons Park Ave Mobile, AL, 36604 Remember Arthur Ashe 4 the Kids Day is a free family-friendly event that will take place at Lyons Park Tennis Center.

Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents 9 to 5 7:30 PM Details on August 18.

FamilyCalendar

Sunday August 27

Vintage Market Days of Mobile Fall 2023

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Rd N Mobile, AL, 36608 Vintage Market Days® is an upscale, vintage-inspired, indoor/outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, food trucks, seasonal plantings, and a little more. vintagemarketdays.com/market/mobile/index.php

Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents 9 to 5

2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 S Carlen St Mobile, AL, 36606 Details on August 18.

Mobile Opera Summer Soiree

5:30 PM Ruth’s Chris Steak House, 2058 Airport Blvd Mobile, AL, 36606 Join us for an evening of exquisite dining and exceptional music at Mobile Opera’s 13th Annual Summer Soiree. 251-432-6772 https://www.mobileopera.org/

Wednesday August 30

Great Movie Adventure - “The Bad Guys”

3:30 PM Virginia Dillard Smith/Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL, 36617 Join us at Toulminville Branch for movies and snacks! Today’s film will be DC League of Super-Pets www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday August 31

Kid’s Bop Karaoke

4:00 PM Virginia Dillard Smith/Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL, 36617 It’s Karaoke Time! Come and have fun singing your favorite songs with us at the Toulminville Branch! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Friday September 1

Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Saturday September 2

Port of Mobile Cruise ($35.99/adults and $25.99/ kids under 12) 9:00 AM Historic Blakeley State Park, Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 This cruise winds through the scenic delta and down the historic Mobile River for a relaxing voyage through the Port of Mobile. Along the way on this three-hour excursion, we explore one of the nation’s busiest harbors. http://www.blakeleypark.com

Monday September 4

Sunday Sunset Concert

5:30 PM Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 (5:307:30pm) – Symone French and the Trouille Troupe

Saturday September 9

Brick Convention LEGO Fan Expo

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr Mobile, AL, 36602 Incredible LEGO Displays, LEGO Masters, Vendors selling anything and everything LEGO, Meet & Greets, & MORE!

https://www.brickconvention.com/

Thursday September 14

RMHC Mobile’s Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

5:30 PM - 9:00 PM, Mobile Cruise Terminal , 201 S. Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 An evening of fun, pampering, shopping, entertainment, food and drink for women ages 21 and older. “Purse-onality” is the highlight of the evening, giving every attendee the opportunity to buy a unique purse with a surprise gift inside!

https://rmhcmobile.org/girls-just-wanna-fun/

Wednesdays and Thursdays

Shake, Rattle, & Read Storytime at West Regional Library

10:00 AM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room every Wednesday and Thursday morning at 10:00 a.m. for this storytime program designed for infants and children up to age three. Help stimulate their early literacy skills and enjoy meeting other parents! 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Read and Sign (ASL) Storytime

11:00 AM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room for books, songs, sign language and for ages 3 - 5! 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

FamilyCalendar

Every Second Wednesday

Learning Lunch (Free) 12:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This series allows guests to enjoy free presentations on a wide range of historical and cultural topics. Admission to Learning Lunch is free. Bring your lunch and enjoy complimentary beverages. 251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Every Thursday

Throwdown Thursday - Video and Board

Games for Teens at West

3:30 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 This is a laid-back meetup to unwind playing games with other teens. We will have various board games, nintendo switch, playstation and xbox games for multiplayer matchups that include various genres - puzzle, racing, fighting, shooting, and open-world-type games. Sometimes there will also be additional activities like 3d pens and fuse beads for expressing your creative side! 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Friday

Little Explorers

10:30 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Exploring the world one tiny step at a time. Every Friday from 10:30-11:00 am in the Nature Pavilion

and the Moorer Courtyard with Ms. Charise. Included in General Admission. Free for Exploreum members. www.exploreum.com

Every Second Friday

LoDA Artwalk

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

Every Saturday

Saturday Science

10:30 AM - 2:30 PM, Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for Saturday Science! Demonstrations will be shown in our various Lab and Headquarters throughout the day. www.exploreum.com

Saturday Crafternoon

3:00 PM - 3:30 PM, Theodore Oaks, 5808 US-90 West E Theodore, AL, 36582 Come celebrate the upcoming 159th Battle of Mobile Bay sponsored by the 6th Alabama Cavalry & the Alabama Division of Reenactors. This two-day event is at historic Fort Gaines. Saturday will be the Battle of Mobile Bay reenactment & surrender ceremony, and Sunday will feature a Tactical www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Third Saturday

WeMo Market

4:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Redbar Espresso & Market, 7681 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for this fun event with 40+ Vendors, sunset yoga, music, and more. Third Saturdays from 4pm-9pm.

https://www.facebook.com/RedBarEspresso

Every Second Saturday

Saturdays at the Coop

7:00 PM Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 Fill your weekend with good times and great music at Cooper Riverside Park every Saturday after ArtWalk! Our free concerts run from 7-10 PM and feature bands from a variety of genres including, but not limited to jazz, metal, country, rock, and pop. Come enjoy music under the stars and don’t forget to bring a folding chair or blanket and snacks!

https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events

First Sunday of the month

Free First Sunday - History Museum of Mobile

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

251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

Why Your Young Athlete’s Social Media Matters

Do you have an athlete in your home? If you do, this article is definitely for you. My husband and I raised two athletes. Our sons have been playing baseball since they were four years old. My youngest has actually tackled all three sports, baseball, basketball, and football. And up until my oldest graduated this year, we did not know what lazy beach summer vacations looked like. If it didn’t involve dirt, a bunch of stinky boys, temps hotter than the face of the sun, folding chairs, and a lot of baseballs, we weren’t doing it. I would not trade those days for anything.

While my kids were good at their sports, they were not great. Meaning they were off the scholarship to college and beyond level. However, there are A LOT of kids that are. And they put in massive amounts of sweat equity to secure those scholarships. I have witnessed so many athletes (girls and guys) lose their place on their high school teams and their potential for college scholarships due to misuse of their social media. I will share a few ways to mitigate this and how to use their social media to get noticed in the RIGHT way when looking for scholarships.

Athletes need to remember they are in a position to represent themselves and the school. This brings a lot of pressure

and some scrutiny. Some ways to ensure they do not attract the wrong type of attention to themselves are:

(1) Keep it clean. No foul language. No inappropriate picture sending. Basically, no junk.

(2) Keep it kind. Always support your teammates. And never...and I mean NEVER...use their platform to make fun of or bash other teams.

(3) Remember that the coaches and recruiters that they want to notice them WILL be looking at their social media. So if it is something your mom, dad, or grandma would be embarrassed that you posted, chances are a recruiter will not like it either.

(4) Ask your athlete to go back through their social media all the way to middle school. And remove anything that does not represent them how they want to be represented.

Athletes can also use social media to gain exposure to recruiters. Social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube have allowed teen athletes to showcase their skills and achievements. They can post highlights, training videos, and game footage, allowing college coaches and recruiters to discover them. This increased exposure has made it easier

for athletes to get noticed and considered for scholarships.

Social media makes personal branding easy. It allows teen athletes to create and maintain their brand. They can showcase their personality, values, and work ethic, making them more appealing to college coaches.

They can communicate directly with college coaches and recruiters. Many colleges and universities use social media to announce scholarship offers and commitments from athletes. This information is readily available to the public, allowing athletes to celebrate their achievements and gain recognition from their peers, family, and friends.

Bottom line: There is great opportunity for our athletes to increase viability and help reach their scholarship goals. But they must remember that college coaches and recruiters often monitor athletes’ social media accounts to gain a sense of their character and decisionmaking. Inappropriate or offensive posts can jeopardize scholarship opportunities, so athletes must be mindful of their online presence.

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

HERE, BABIES GET THEIR START, AND FAMILIES ARE BORN.

We haven’t just changed the experience of having a baby; we’ve transformed it, starting with a host of birthing options from the region’s only academic health system. From a traditional birthing experience, to a Gentle C-Section, to the region’s most advanced neonatal intensive care unit and maternal-fetal specialists, the experience you want is here.