Mobile Bay Parents "Afterschool Activities Issue" (August 22) by KeepSharing

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August2022

Volume 12 Number 5

Columns

2 Publisher’s Note

Teaching Kids to Pause Help them control anger and maintain respect for others.

Middle School Teaches Life Lessons

Helping your child see the value.

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4 Kids Say the Wisest Things Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

8 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

23 Tweens, Teens and Screens Kristi Bush, LSW

5 Benefits of After School Activities

Happy, well-rounded kids are active.

2022 After School Activities Guide

44 Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Departments On The Cover

5 Bits and Pieces

Hudson Howard (8) and Henry Howard (6), sons of Clint and Rebecca Howard. Both boys

9 School Bits

love to spend time outdoors, including hunting and fishing with their family. They also enjoy

40 Family Calendar

swimming, playing baseball, and playing football in the yard.

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FromthePublisher

Mobile Bay Mobile Bay’s Foremost Parenting Source

Where I grew up, you didn’t necessarily go to the school closest to you. In fact, we actually passed three other elementary schools before I got to mine, but that was totally fine with me. I got to ride the bus, plus I loved my elementary school and all the friends I made. It was wonderful! The problem came at the end of 6th grade when it was time to go to middle school. All of my closest friends were going to one school, but I was zoned for another. Most of my neighborhood friends were a year younger so they weren’t going yet, and my best friend was going to a private school. I felt really alone and scared. Fortunately, it ended up working out great, and remains a favorite time in my life! I made tons of new friends, despite some middle school drama. Speaking of drama, my first “frenemy” told everyone I stuffed my bra. Okay, so MAYBE there was that one day when I was feeling a bit insecure about my underdeveloped body and I MIGHT have worn my mom’s padded bra, but there was no “stuffing”. I also got sent to the principal’s office for the first, and only time, for calling my best friend “a little fart” in earshot of a teacher. And, I had an unfortunate fall, scraping my face on the asphalt, followed by some kids who called me “Scabs”. However, as Katy Clark shares in this month’s feature, Middle School Teaches Valuable Life Lessons, all of these things helped me mature. Middle school gave me the skills to overcome any shyness and make friends pretty easily. (To this day, I have never met a stranger.) I had a very diverse friend group, making friends of different races, religions and economic backgrounds. Nobody cared. Nobody judged. I learned to accept my body the way it was made, watch what I say in front of others, and not take myself too seriously. These are skills I am grateful for and still try to use to this day. I actually loved middle school! At the end of 9th grade, it was time to move up to high school. And guess what? The same thing happened again... “ALL of my friends” went to one high school and I was zoned for another. At the time it felt horrible, but honestly, it gave me the opportunity to make even more new friends. Bonus, a lot of the kids I went to elementary school with were now reunited at the high school! I will say, one of the greatest things that helped me with all of my transitions was being involved in after-school activities. Christina Katz expands on this idea in her feature, Five Benefits Of After School Activities For Happy, Well-Rounded Kids. We have also included our annual After School Activities Guide to help you and your child find information on local team sports, martial arts, gymnastics, dance, and much more! So, whether your kids are going back to familiar territory or starting on a new adventure, I do hope that everyone has a wonderful, joyful school year filled with awesome activities and friends!

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 Katy M. Clark Christina Katz Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA Dave Ramsey

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

Visit us at www.mobilebayparents.com Mobile Bay Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 81105, Mobile, Alabama, 36689. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 304-1200. Mobile Bay Parents is copyrighted 2022 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Mobile Bay Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

lynn@mobilebayparents.com

Mobile Bay Parents I August 2022

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

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by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

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what we treat Minor Illnesses and Injuries Such as: Fever Allergies Cough and Colds Sprains and Strains Vomiting Sore Throat And Other Non-life-threatening Injuries

On-Site Services X-Ray | Laboratory | Pharmacy

Open Late and on Weekends MOBILE: 2pm until 10pm DAPHNE: 12pm until 8pm www.childrensurgent.com Mobile Bay Parents I August 2022

Teaching Kids to Pause When Angry David A. Powlison’s book Good and Angry: Redeeming Anger, Irritation, Complaining, and Bitterness suggests that all anger is rooted in selfishness. Selfishness can simply be described by the saying, “I want what I want when I want it.” Anger is born when we do not get what we want. Anger can be both good and bad. Powlison’s cure for bad anger is complex, but begins by always pausing before we react and asking ourselves the question, “What can I do to make this situation better?” Helping your children grow into mature people that can ask themselves this question before reacting requires a number of skills. Parents, YOU are responsible for teaching your children these skills from the time they are toddlers through adulthood. Unfortunately, there are three mistakes parents often make that impede the development of these important life skills.

1. Lack of understanding of age-appropriate behavior. Take the time to search the internet for a list of what your child should be doing at specific ages. I constantly see parents who are concerned for or overwhelmed by their child’s age-appropriate behavior. 2. Use of electronics for parental comfort. Your child needs to be looking outside the windows in the car, touching items in the grocery store, and learning to sit through dinner at a restaurant. It is easy to hand your child a phone to keep them quiet, but you are impeding healthy development. Choose your child’s growth over your own comfort. 3. Giving them everything for nothing. I think we can all agree that entitlement is a problem in our current culture. Help your children set goals, meet them, and then reward them. Here are the three skills that all children need to master before they can learn the advanced skill of being able to pause when angry and ask, “What can I do to make this situation better?” 4

1. Have them ask permission for everything. The skill of asking permission does not limit independence. Instead, it helps children learn to pause and think before meeting their own needs. Making them ask permission will prepare them for circumstances where they will be required to communicate with authority figures before taking action. 2. Teach them to do what they are told when they are told to do it. If your children do not know how to follow directions, their success will be limited. We teach this best through prompts and presence. Tell your children to do something one time (prompt) and then physically help them do it (presence). Do not repeat yourself, negotiate, argue, etc. Helping them comply teaches them that they will not be able to escape the demand. 3. Help them to be okay with discomfort. Have your children try to eat with their less dominant hand or wear their wristwatch on a different wrist. Make them finish an activity they do not enjoy. Teach them that they can survive doing hard things. The practice of these three skills will teach your children to stop and think, respect others, and become aware of their own selfishness. Rather than simply reacting to their anger, they will eventually be able to remain calm and ask themselves, “What can I do to make this situation better?” As they mature, you will be surprised at their creative and insightful ways to resolve problems.

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

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Children’s of Alabama Hooked on a Cure

August 26, 6:00 p.m. through August 27, 8:00 p.m. at Bear Point Harbor, located at 5749 Bay La Launch Ave, in Orange Beach, Alabama. Children’s of Alabama’s second annual Hooked on a Cure is set to take place on Friday, August 26 through Saturday, August 27, 2022, benefitting patients from the Alabama Gulf Coast treated at Children’s of Alabama. Fishing enthusiasts and friends in Mobile and Baldwin counties are invited to enjoy a day of inshore and offshore fishing at OSO at Bear Point Harbor, located at 5749 Bay La Launch Avenue. Children’s of Alabama patients and their families in the area are invited to attend the Hooked on a Cure event, where they will be celebrated and honored. Four-man teams are eligible to register for the fishing tournament. The inshore fishing registration is $250 per boat, while offshore fishing registration is $500 per boat – with an additional $25 to participate in the jackpot category. All boats must be under the bridge by Bear Point Harbor at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. For more information or to register online, visit give.childrensal. org/hookedonacure or call Kerrie Benson at (251) 610-4969. Event updates will be posted regularly to facebook.com/ChildrensHookedonaCure.

Jurassic Quest

The largest and most realistic dinosaur event in North America is BACK, BIGGER and BETTER than EVER! Mobile-area families can walk among the nation’s biggest herd of photorealistic dinosaurs when Jurassic Quest® opens at the Mobile Convention Center, August 26-28. Jurassic Quest opens its doors with its most beloved and unique experiences for the whole family including life-like dinosaurs, some of the largest rideable dinosaurs in North America, live dinosaur shows, interactive science and art activities including a fossil dig and real fossils like T-Rex teeth, a triceratops horn and life-size dino skull, a “Triceratots” soft play area for our littlest explorers, bounce houses and inflatable attractions, photo opportunities, and more. Visit www.jurassicquest.com for ticket information.

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Friday Night Live

MSO 25th Anniversary Season!

Join us August 26 at the corner of Dauphin and Franklin streets for a free night of family fun and entertainment. The City of Mobile Parks and Recreation Department has a great music lineup including Nu Image Gospel Group and jazz musician Kyle Turner. These two, along with DJ Levi Sims will have you dancing the night away! Gates open at 6pm. Concert begins at 7pm. Bring your chairs. By attending this event you agree to be photographed. No tents allowed. For information visit www.MobileParksandRecreation.org.

The 2022-2023 season of the Mobile Symphony will be back in full force, filling the Saenger with the astonishing sounds of Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade and Capriccio Espagnol, Dvorak’s New World Symphony, Copland’s Rodeo, William Grant Still’s Afro-American Symphony, Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet, and even the greatest hits from Wagner’s Ring Cycle! We’re thrilled to welcome violinist Tessa Lark for the first time, playing the Sky concerto written just for her. Pianist Joyce Yang also makes her Mobile Symphony debut with Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto. We’re shaking things up with a lively and virtuosic mandolin concerto, composed by our friend Jennifer Higdon especially for guest mandolinist Avi Avital. And we welcome back the beloved University of South Alabama Concert Choir for Caroline Shaw’s Music in Common Time, in a concert that ends with Brahms’ powerful Symphony No. 4. Please visit https://mobilesymphony.org for more information.

Sunny Side Theater Holds Auditions for “James and the Giant Peach”

Sunny Side Theater will hold auditions for “James and the Giant Peach” August 15 and 16 at 6 pm. Come ready to read from the script. Register for auditions by going to sunnysidedrama.com. In keeping with Sunny Side Theater philosophy everyone who tries out will get a part. If you are interested in working tech you can find that form at sunnysidedrama. com also. Show dates are October 14-16, 2022 at Davidson High School. Call or text Chris Paragone at 251-510-1808 with questions.

Satsuma 2 - Miler Grand Prix-Corporate Cup Awards

This year’s Port City Pacers kick off race will be held in Satsuma at the Community Center on Saturday, August 13 at 7:30 a.m. Renew your PCP membership during the preregistration period and your run is FREE. Non-members can join PCP and the race will only cost $5. This offer is ONLY good during the PREREGISTRATION PERIOD. Race day registration is $10. We will be clearing out awards from previous races - award winners will be able to select their award from an award assortment. You will have the opportunity select from a collection of race shirts from previous races. After the race, food, beverages, and awards will be provided. Please visit www.portcitypacers.com for more information.

6th Annual Rubber Ducky Regatta

Mobile’s 6th annual Rubber Ducky Regatta will make a splash on August 6, 2022, by dropping thousands of rubber duckies into the Mobile River. The “adopted” duckies will race to the finish line and the three fastest ducky’s adopters will have a chance to win some fabulous prizes! New this year… the ducky that finishes last will win a one-month membership Crew fitness to get them in shape for next year’s race! All proceeds will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile, which houses families with seriously ill and injured children being treated at area hospitals. By adopting a rubber ducky not only will you have a chance to win prizes, but you will be providing funds for a safe haven to all the families who stay at Ronald McDonald House Mobile while their child is receiving treatment. The event kicks off at 10 a.m. at Cooper Riverside Park on Tuesday, August 6 and the race will also go live on the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile Facebook page. The Rubber Ducky Regatta invites all families in the surrounding areas to adopt ducks and enjoy some family-friendly fun! Please visit https:// rubberduckyregatta.com/ for more information. Mobile Bay Parents I August 2022

Mr. Bellingrath’s Birthday Celebration

In honor of Mr. Bellingrath’s Birthday, admission to the Gardens is free on August 6 to all Mobile and Baldwin County residents on this date! 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. Walter D. Bellingrath and his wife, Bessie, created Bellingrath Gardens from a former fishing camp along the Fowl River, which Bellingrath purchased in 1919. The Bellingraths opened the Gardens to the public for the first time on April 7, 1932. The August 6 “Open Gardens” tradition dates back to 1949, when Mr. Bellingrath invited local residents to come and enjoy the Gardens at no charge as part of his 80th birthday celebration. 6

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2022 Sam Schjott Memorial Bayou La Batre Kayak Classic

Join us August 6th & 7th for another year of fun fishing with the 2022 Sam Schjott Memorial Bayou La Batre Batre Kayak Classic (formerly the Bayou Kayak Classic). This year we are featuring 2 days of fishing with a new virtual tournament format so participants can fish from anywhere they want within the tournament zone. This year’s tournament will be a Catch, Photo and Submit virtual tournament format using the Fishing Chaos App. Entry fees - Kayak Fishing Classic - $35.00, Clean Waters Contest - $10.00 (benefiting AL Coastal Foundation). To learn more and review the complete rules, visit https://www. bayoulabatreareachamber.org/ bayou-kayak-classic.

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Join us at Oakleigh on August 11, 2022, at 6:00pm. Step back through the ages and into the life of one of the most famous women in Mobile history. At this special birthday event guests will get to see rare archival items relating to Octavia’s life and participate in an intimate discussion with local author Paula Webb. Guests receive a party favor and have the option of partaking in refreshments! Get tickets on our website www.historicmobile.org/events.

Via Health Celebrates 50 Years

The Via Health, Fitness and Enrichment Center is celebrating 50 years of serving Seniors and their families. The celebration event is open to the public and will be held on Thursday, August 18, starting at 6:00 p.m. at the Via Center in Midtown. The celebration will feature a special Memory Exhibit, a walk though time with photographs from our history. The evening’s festivities include the always popular Tip Tops Band, dancing, appetizers, libations, and a silent auction. All proceeds will benefit Seniors that Via serves throughout Mobile County. And, to ensure the organization can continue to serve for another 50 years. Tickets are available online through Eventbrite, at the Via Center Welcome Desk, by visiting www.viamobile.org/50th-celebration or calling 251.478.3311/emailing specialevents@viamobile.org. Via thanks its event sponsors, who will be acknowledged as part of the Via Center Giving Tree monument: Large Bronze Stone - Century Bank, AARP of Alabama, Goldberg Family Foundation, Mrs. Mary Jo Hrabe in honor of Mr. Chuck Hrabe; Medium Bronze Stone - Mobile County Commission, Mr. Ben Meisler; Small Bronze Stone – The Hyman Foundation, Mrs. Arlene F. Mitchell; Gold Leaf - Lisa Mitchell Charitable Foundation; Copper Leaf - Alabama State Representative Adline Clarke, Mr. and Mrs. Ronnie and Jani Handwerger, Regions Bank, Oakworth Capital Bank and AMRCostal Clinical Research.

Dance It’s about more than the steps.

Happy 212th Birthday Madame Octavia LeVert!

Conndent, Ambitious, Focused and Happy!

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Sports Specialization

st It’s hard to believe, but now that we are approaching the beginning of the school year and deciding on extracurricular activities, what’s the best approach to deciding on those activities with the overall health of your child in mind? Sports are a great way for children to develop unique lifelong skills such as leadership, teamwork, self-esteem, and physical health. Joining a team is fun and is a great asset for children to develop all of the above skills. But is there a point at which being too involved with a sport can be harmful? “Sports specialization” is a term that generally refers to a situation in which a child focuses on only one sport year-round, and excludes the possibility of participating in other sports. Studies have shown that early sports specialization can lead to overuse injuries and burnout. Repetitive movements on young bones and joints can be harmful, and especially so on young children. Most children’s bones and joints are not fully developed until after puberty, which typically occurs in the teenage years. Therefore,

Mobile Bay Parents I August 2022

the types of injuries that children sustain while participating in sports are very different from those of older teenagers and adults. With that in mind, what are some good ‘rules’ for deciding on sports activities? A good rule of thumb is diversification, as well as taking at least a three-month break over the course of the year from organized sports. Picking one sport to play year-round is generally not recommended until around puberty or even after (exceptions being swimming, gymnastics, and figure skating). This gives the body time to mature and helps limit the repetitive movements of a particular sport. It also actually helps an athlete develop a broader range of skills that can help them succeed even more in the sport in which he or she has the most interest. A child who specializes in a sport later in the teenage years actually has a statistically greater likelihood to excel in that sport. Another good reason to try different athletic pursuits is to avoid burnout. Studies have shown that children who play the same sport repeatedly

without any breaks or trying any other sport have a significantly higher rate of burnout. That burnout can lead to quitting sports altogether, or create friction between the child and other children or adults (such as their parents or coaches). Also, when a child joins a different team, he or she gets to learn how to make friends with other children, broaden their social circle, and also become used to different types of instruction from a variety of coaches and mentors. This can lead to improved adaptive skills. No matter what sport or activity your child chooses or shows initial interest, try to remain flexible. In the long run, it will likely result in greater athletic success and longevity for your child, and more fun! 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.

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Autauga County Schools MCPSS The Giving Tree Honorees

Mobile County Public Schools Superintendent Chresal D. Threadgill and the Mobile County Board of Education recognized educators, counselors and administrators who have earned statewide or national awards over the last three years by placing their names on The Giving Tree at Central Office. The honorees are: Nicole Baranov, Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, 2020 LTC Robert F. Barrow, JRTOC Director of Army Instruction of the Year, 2021 Stacey Dillard, State’s Outstanding Elementary Science Teacher, ASTA, 2021 Jessica Ellzey, Finalist, Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, 2020 Malinda Gray, RAMP Award, American School Counselor Association, 2021 Darlene Lewis, RAMP Award, American School Counselor Association, 2021 Larry Mouton, Lifetime Achievement Award, Alabama Association for Career and Technical Education, 2021 Denise Riemer, School Social Work Association of Alabama Change Agent Award, 2021 Apryle Williams, RAMP Award, American School Counselor Association, 2021 Teachers of the Year 2021: Julie Neidhardt, Hutchens Elementary, Elementary Teacher of the Year Anna Mouton, Clark-Shaw Magnet, Middle School Teacher of the Year Deborah Pippin, Citronelle High, High School Teacher of the Year Teachers of the Year 2022: Kelly Parker, Tanner Williams Elementary, Elementary School Teacher of the Year; William Edmonds, Barton Academy for Advanced World Studies, Middle School Teacher of the Year and Alabama’s Secondary Teacher of the Year; Jamie Bosarge, Alma Bryant High, High School Teacher of the Year

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Autauga County Schools Art Walk Through at Acton Academy Cottage Hill Mobile Hosts Throughout the spring semester the Steam Camp for middle school art class worked diligently to create an art experience based on the Kids

paining “The Waterlilly Pond” by Claude Monet. The class painted, crafted, and created during each art class period to produce this beautiful walk through experience. CHCA is proud of the hard work and efforts put in by these students under the direction of Mrs. Roberts.

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Local school students joined the STEAM fun at Acton Academy in West Mobile for engaging and interactive learning experiences. Campers made lava lamps, s’mores ovens, puppet theaters and so much more. STEAM Camp gives kids an opportunity to experience and enjoy STEM learning, fostering creativity, problemsolving, and curiosity.

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MPD Visits Corpus Christi Summer Camp We are so thankful to Lieutenant Perrin, Corporal Nelson, and the Mobile Police Department for taking the time out of their busy schedule to come visit our Summer Camp. The children learned a lot about what great things an officer does to help us in times of need. They also learned how to distinguish a police officer from another person and how to ask for help.

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ON-SITE REGISTRATION Saturday, August 13 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. REGISTER ONLINE NOW! GalesStudioofDance.com Call 251-343-9544

AGES 2 & UP

CLASSES BEGIN AUGUST 24 6345 Airport Blvd., Suite F Mobile, AL 36608 Piccadilly Square – Same Shopping Center as Buffalo Wild Wings

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St. Mary Catholic Aquinas Scholars

St. Mary Catholic congratulates their 8th Grade Students who were selected as McGill-Toolen Aquinas Scholars: Stewart Carroll, Emma Grubbs, Connor McCorkle, Jude Moore, Rodrigo Sanchez Roca, Evan Stein, Macy Tobias. “The Aquinas Academy is designed to challenge the most gifted and motivated students in a demanding course of study. The development of the students’ abilities in all areas of the academic curriculum is emphasized along with various outside reading, writing, and extra activities” (McGilltoolen.org). Submitted by Marcelle Naman

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St. Dominic Welcome Signs

St. Dominic Catholic School buddy families have been busy delivering special welcome yard signs to our new families for the 2022/2023 school year. We welcome all of our new Soaring Eagles!

MCPSS JROTC STEM Leadership Academy

About 150 JROTC cadets from around the county participated in the JROTC STEM Leadership Academy coordinated by Mobile County Public Schools in June. The Leadership Academy is a weeklong residential summer camp that blends STEM instruction and hands-on challenges with JROTC activities such as rappelling and orienteering. Students also visit local industry sites and workplaces to learn about STEM careers. The theme for this year’s camp was the maritime industry. Last fall, the U.S. Department of Defense awarded a $6 million grant for MCPSS to expand the Leadership Academy to school districts in other states.

"We have more than a school, we have a home ." - UMS-Wright Alma Mater

ums-wright.org | 251-479-6551

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Autauga County Schools Recognizing Outstanding Faculty LBA’s Summer Campers and Staff At Cottage Hill Christian Enjoy Field Trips

The faculty and staff of CHCA gathered at the end of the school year to reflect on the year together and celebrate all the Lord has done in and through the Warrior family. CHCA recognized the faculty and staff who have served for at least 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years at Cottage Hill. This will be an annual tradition to show the love and appreciation CHCA has for those who serve in Christian education as a part of the Warrior family!

LBA’s Summer Day Camp had a different theme each week, and the summer staff poured many hours into teaching and creating crafts for the children. The weekly field trips are always a highlight, and in June, the children enjoyed Pump it Up, laser tag, bowling, and a trampoline park.

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Bayside Women’s Health is pleased to welcome Dr. Lauren Cooper

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St. Luke’s Student Receives PERFECT Score on National Latin Exam! St. Luke’s student, Megan McDonough, received a PERFECT score on the 2022 National Latin Exam! The National Latin Exam (NLE) is a test given annually to Latin students across the United States and around the world. Congratulations to these students for being recognized for the National Latin Exam. Gold medals and Summa Cum Laude certificates: Megan McDonough (perfect score) William McDonough Kevin Ori Joshua Green Silver medals and Maxima Cum Laude certificates: Sophie Abel, Jake Davis, Andrew Thomas, Murray Goodman, Jackson Tapscott, Hallie Dickinson, Sophia Bitzer Magna Cum Laude certificates: Morgan Haynes, Jacob Musial, Peighton Matheny, Cum Laude certificates: Hazel Pitsios-Luther, Mason Brown Carsten Kennedy

Lauren Cooper, M.D. Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Bayside Women’s Health has been providing high-quality care for women for more than 45 years. As a group, our physicians are dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for women through all phases of their lives. From pregnancy to menopause, our office brings experience and innovation. We understand that life is busy, so we are pleased to offer, in most instances, same day appointments. We also provide Telemedicine appointments through certain insurance providers.

To make an appointment with Lauren Cooper, M.D. call 251.990.6550.

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St. Mary McT Award Recipients

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Congratulations to St. Mary Catholic School eighth graders who received honors at the McGill-Toolen Foundation Scholarship Breakfast on May 11. St. Mary students received the following scholarships: The Amy Hand Perry Scholarship for Spanish, Stewart Carroll; The Coach Peter Banks Scholarship for Track/Overall Student Achievement, Jennifer Dolan; The Henry E. Reimer Academic Scholarship for Highest Overall Score on the McT Placement Test, Rodrigo Sanchez Roca; The Mitzi Z. Wolfarth Scholarship for Overall Student Achievement, John Carter Conger; The Ruth W. and William J. O’Connor Scholarship for Highest Math Score one the McT Placement Test, Connor McCorkle; and The St. Augustine Scholars for Overall Student Achievement, Lucy O’Donnell, Connor Ollis, Joshua Sasser, and Deria Scott. Submitted by Marcelle Naman. 13

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Autauga County Schools St. Luke’s Maypole Tradition

One of the most popular traditions at St. Luke’s is the Maypole dance at Spring Fest. The Maypole is a tradition that dates back centuries that was used as a reminder that spring has sprung and rebirth has begun. Each year, our 5th grade students dance in a pattern that weaves the colorful ribbons around the Maypole and then reverse their steps to undo the ribbons. This is said to represent the lengthening of the days as summer approaches.

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MCPSS Senior Walks

Mobile County Public Schools celebrated 3,392 graduates in the Class of 2022, who received their diplomas in graduation ceremonies held in May. Before graduation, many of them returned to their elementary schools during Senior Walk activities held around the county. These events give the graduates a chance to visit former teachers and classrooms, while providing an example to the elementary students at each school. Congratulations to the Class of 2022!

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St. Dominic Teachers Attend “Nuts and Bolts” Professional Development Conference

Several St. Dominic Catholic School teachers enjoyed attending the “Nuts and Bolts” Professional Development Conference over the Summer. They have learned new skills and are excited to implement them into their classrooms for the 2022/2023 school year. PROUDLY SERVING MOBILE, ALABAMA AND SURROUNDING AREAS, PICKETT ORTHODONTICS PERFECTS SMILES OF ALL AGES WITH CUSTOMIZED TREATMENT IN A RELAXED AND COMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT.

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St. Mary Eighth Grade Completion Mass 2022

Congratulations to the St. Mary Class of 2022! We are proud of you and hope you will come back home and visit often. Congratulations to our 8th grade award recipients included in this album to include The Rev. Msgr. Peter J. Cunningham Awards, Model Christian Students, 4.0 Awards, Marian Honors, and Altar Server Awards. Pictured here: St. Mary Peter J. Cunningham Award Recipients, Emma Grubbs and Charlie Warner with KOC Member, David Wallace, St. Mary Principal, Debbie Olllis, and St. Mary Pastor, Father Stephen Vrazel

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Autauga County Schools UMS-Wright Holds Special Saint Pius X Class of 2022 The Saint Pius X Class of 2022 has forever left their mark on our school Graduation Ceremony for Senior and in our hearts. On their last day, our entire school gathered to celebrate

The word “family” is often mentioned when describing UMSWright, and June 7 was a perfect example! Alex Hulser ‘22 was unable to attend baccalaureate and graduation, so our faculty and staff rallied to throw her a special ceremony. Not a single detail was missed - classmates, faculty and staff, white dresses, flowers, processional, photos, and bouquet toss! “We have more than a school, we have a home.”

one last Mass with them and shared in their graduation ceremony. We then hosted a breakfast celebration for our graduates and their families, including lots of photos, hugs, laughs, tears, fun awards and their 8th grade video. Thank you to our faculty for continually pouring into our students, the parents and families of our graduates for all you have done for them and for our beloved school over the years, and to our graduates for being you - please remember your roots and come back to visit us. We cannot wait to see all you accomplish in this next chapter. Once a Cardinal, Always a Cardinal!

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Student Receives St. Dominic Reverend Monsignor William Skoneki Scholarship

Congratulations to Sophie Ward who was the St. Dominic Catholic School Reverend Monsignor William Skoneki Scholarship Award recipient. This scholarship is awarded annually to the graduating eighth grader with the highest GPA.

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

Registration for the 2022 - 2023 school year is happening NOW. Established in 1958, Corpus Christi Catholic School provides students in K2 through eighth grade an outstanding education. The mission of Corpus Christi Catholic School is to nurture every child by providing opportunities to grow in faith, achieve academic success, and serve others as disciples of Jesus.

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To schedule a tour, please contact us. 251.342.5474 • school@CCSCatholic.com school.corpuschristiparish.com 6300 McKenna Drive Mobile, Alabama 36608 2/08/2022

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St. Luke’s Students Make Mobile All County Congratulations to these St. Luke’s students for making the Mobile All County Teams: Soccer: Ella Ferebee, Ally Grace Lowell, Kiley Hawarah, Bianca Tapscott and Abigail Sadler. Track & Field: Maddie Hurt, Kennedy Johnson, Taylor Jackson and Rowan Yeager. Tennis: Anna Marie Bentley and Ella Bentley.

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Autauga County Schools St. Dominic Summer Campers Attend VBS

St. Dominic Catholic School summer campers enjoyed a monumental experience during the Parish’s Annual Vacation Bible School. They participated in games, drama, music, special snacks and outdoor activities. Thank you to all of our participants who donated to Goodwill Gulf Coast as part of our service project for this year’s Vacation Bible School!

McGill Student Maggie Heller Advocates for Cystic Fibrosis at the US Capitol

McT Catholic Junior Maggie Heller traveled to DC to advocate for Cystic Fibrosis at the US Capitol in DC. She met with Nicholas Ayers, Legislative Assistant to Congressman Jerry Carl, to discuss the importance of the Pasteur Act to CF patients. Maggie’s sister Lilly has Cystic Fibrosis.

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

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Mobile Bay Parents I August 2022

You and your troop. Dreaming up adventures. Making the whole world sparkle with your own personal brand of magic. This is just the beginning of forever friendship and a lifetime of fun.

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St. Pius X Congratulates Alumnus

Congratulations to St. Pius X alumnus, Nate LaRue, and the Auburn University baseball program on their 2022 season! Picked to finish seventh in the SEC West, the 2022 Auburn Tigers finished tied for fifth nationally, ending their season at the College World Series with an 11-1 loss to Arkansas at Charles Schwab Field. Nate, your SPX family is so very proud of you and cannot wait to watch what you accomplish next year.

Librarians Make It Happen

Corpus Christi Catholic School librarian, Mrs. Mansfield, spent a few of her summer days at the ASLA 2022 Summer Conference.

Mobile Christian and St. Luke’s Team Up with Special Olympics for Volleyball Night

Mobile Christian volleyball team hosted an awesome event in June. Thank you to the St. Luke’s volleyball team and the Special Olympics for partnering with us and allowing us to be part of such a fun and memorable event!

Davidson Student Receives Honor at Science and Engineering Fair

Davidson High student Dakota Perry received a Judges’ Award from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Atlanta. Perry designed a system that corrals floating trash from rivers and streams by creating a curtain of bubbles to guide it to the shoreline.

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Autauga County Schools

McGill-Toolen Catholic Senior Awards

Congratulations to McGill-Toolen Catholic Senior Award Winners! Back Row McGill Award, Cole Blaize Hall; Ideal Graduate, Bennett Katz; Salutatorian, Beau Brechtel; Outstanding Female Athletes Ella Keaton and Laura Burch; McAtee Distinguished Service Award, Matthew Collings; Outstanding Male Athlete and Kaitlyn Marie Overstreet Spirit Award, Barry Dunning; McAtee Distinguished Service Award, Nina Poiroux Front Row: Ideal Graduate, Grace Greenwood; Toolen Award, Janie Dunwell; Paul Joseph Bueche, Jr. Service to God and Country Award, Hayden Ward; Kaitlyn Marie Overstreet Spirit Award, Samantha Collins; Salutatorian, Isabela Flores; Valedictorian, Milligan Grinstead

UMS-Wright Lower School Students Spread Kindness Throughout the entire school year, Lower School participated in “Miles of Smiles.” Each chain link represents an act of kindness that was shown in the Lower School. There was a total of 20,503 (over a mile) acts of kindness performed over the course of the 2021-2022 school year. Each child wrote the act down on a strip of paper and then the strips were put together as a chain. 5th grade helped by stapling all the strips of paper together.

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St. Pius X Class of 2018 Returns for High School Graduation Celebration

Welcome home! It was a blast from the past as the SPX Class of 2018 returned to their roots for a high school graduation celebration. After being treated to pizza and ice cream, Father Savoie gave them an exciting tour of the top of the Church. They were even able to sign the door, leaving their mark at SPX! Our alumni received a heartwarming surprise when they came outside to see our students cheering for them loudly. They returned to Mr. Naman’s room to watch their 8th grade video, then took on our 8th graders in PE. A special thank you to Father Savoie, Mrs. McLean and Mrs. Mattingly for making this wonderful day possible.

Email School News to Lynn@ mobilebayparents.com.

St. Luke’s Elementary Archery Team Goes to Nationals

As a result of their hard work and determination, St. Luke’s Elementary archery team recently went to Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky. This year alone, the team won several local tournaments, placed top 3 at regionals, placed top 3 at state, and was a top 3 team from Alabama at Nationals. Way to go, Wildcats! Mobile Bay Parents I August 2022

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St. Mary Catholic Presents Spring Musical

The St. Mary Catholic School Performing Arts Company presented their annual School Musical, Alice in Wonderland! Under the direction of St. Mary’s Director of Performing Arts, Hannah Mansfield, 23 students from 5th through 8th grade put on both a student and public performance. Submitted by Marcelle Naman. Photo by Hannah Mansfield.

Mobile Christian Hosts Annual Football Camp

Mobile Christian held the 7th Annual AJ McCarron Football Camp. It was a great day for everyone!

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Davis Tharp Represents CHCA at Alabama Boys State

In June, senior Davis Tharp represented CHCA at Alabama Boys State. During this week long program at Troy University, he attended citizenship and leadership training along with team building activities led by American Legion counselors and U.S. Marines. This program aims to teach high school students about the practical aspects of government and how important individuals are to its success. CHCA is thankful for opportunities like these that teach our students important lessons in new ways! 21

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Autauga County Schools St. Luke’s, 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 beginning high school. These students will not use these gates until graduation. St. Luke’s Class of 2022 seniors sign-out and walk to the gates as they are cheered on by faculty and staff. Once everyone has signed, the president of the student body & head of school unlock the gates. The entire class walks out of the gates (as a sign of leaving high school) in front of a LARGE crowd! Also pictured, St. Luke’s Class of 2022 poses with the Head of School, Dr. Pascavage, after graduation. Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcat!

Allyson Ho Represents CHCA at Alabama Girls State

In mid-June, senior Allyson Ho was able to represent CHCA at Alabama Girls State. This week long program is also held at Troy University and teaches young women about responsible citizenship, leadership, and love of God and country. During this program, the students learn about the political process by electing officials for all levels of state government and actively running a mock government. CHCA is thankful to have had Allyson Ho there as a representative. She said, “It was truly an unforgettable experience!”

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School Shootings and Our Children

How to Help Them Recognize the Online Signs My job each month is to bring you, the parent, information that will better protect your children in the online space. These conversations are not always easy to have, but in order to keep our kids safe, we must have them. Today’s conversation is one of the hardest; it is about school shootings. I have watched quietly over the last several years as they have happened. I have done a ton of research on how, why, and what we can do to help. One of the common themes, other than a desperate need for better mental health services, is that 90 percent of the shooters leak what they will be doing online. Rampage school shooters typically reveal their violent intentions through their talk with peers, their school assignments, their online behavior, and/or their interactions with their parents. The harsh reality is that our children are in the same online space as school shooters. As we look back on recent school shootings, research is showing us that the shooters leaked information about what they were going to do long before they did anything. The reality is that the warning signs of school shootings do not relate to students’ clothing, the video games they play, their musical preferences, or other aspects of their lifestyles. What can we do as parents to better support and protect our children? First, we continue to look at our child’s social media. You may come across something that feels like a red flag on some of the accounts your child follows. Secondly, we must teach our children what to look for. Please understand that I advocate against making our children

mandated reporters. However, the reality is they are on the front lines. They see things that we will never see online. A few warning signs are these specific actions that students engage in which constitute attack-related behaviors. These include any behavior related to the preparation for an attack: stockpiling weapons, diagramming the school as part of planning the attack, writing down plans, and so on. Also, any attempts to recruit someone to join the attack, warning a friend to stay away from school on a certain day, bragging about the upcoming attack, or otherwise indicating violent intentions. All of this can be leaked through social media posts. Social media has provided a venue for children to disclose their intentions. Yet, students, parents, and educators often ignore or downplay the warning signs of an imminent threat. Students often think their peers are simply expressing threats as a way of garnering attention. Even if the threats are taken seriously, there is an unwritten code of silence that keeps many students from reporting what they see or hear. They don’t want to be a snitch or risk being the target of the would-be shooter’s rage. As we educate our children on the warning signs, we MUST also provide a place for them to feel supported and 23

safe to report what they see. This may look like a trusted parent, guardian, teacher, resource officer, or simply an adult friend with whom they feel they may confide. The key here is that the child must feel that they are safe. The potential shooter must not know they made the report. This can even mean allowing anonymous reporting. We must let our children know that we see them, we hear them and we believe what they are saying is incredibly important. While we have so much work to do in this area, I do believe empowering our children with the resources and support they need to help recognize and report signs of a potential school shooter will help to prevent future shootings. While it doesn’t seem fair that our children are having to sit in this space, it is a heartbreaking reality. Equipping them with knowledge on how they can protect themselves and others is better than not doing anything at all.

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.

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I still remember when a boy made fun of my butt in 8th grade, taunting me that it was flat compared to the other girls. But the truth? My less than curvaceous derriere didn’t bother me. It still doesn’t, even in a Kim Kardashian world. “She’s nervous,” I told my coworker about my daughter, 11, as we sat outside on a summer day eating lunch. “Who can blame her? She’s going to middle school.” “Middle school was awesome,” my coworker said, her voice laden with sarcasm. “I had braces and wore glasses and a back brace.” “I wore braces, too,” I commented. “And I was the tallest kid in 7th grade. Boys called me the Jolly Green Giant.” She nodded, chewing thoughtfully on her sandwich. I think I saw her shudder. But that’s when it hit me. I looked at the two of us, all these years later, both successful at work and fulfilled with families and activities that we loved. What if middle school didn’t crush us after all? What if the physical awkwardness and social mishaps of middle school taught us invaluable life lessons that prepared us for our lives today? I think the answer is that it did. And I can’t wait to tell my daughter why.

Wednesday, August 10 & 17 - NEW Students Thursday, August 18 - Current Students (Last Name A-M) Wednesday, August 24 - Current Students (Last Name N-Z) Tuesday, August 9 | 16 | 23 | 30 - Current & NEW Students

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1) Middle school teaches resilience. You will fail in middle school. Maybe it’s a bad grade in algebra or being cut from the volleyball team. But you go back to middle school every day. You study harder and get help. You shake off the tryout and try something else. You fall down and get back up. You become resilient.

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2) Middle school helps you embrace change. Middle school is all about change. You will not be the same height or weight from one year to the next in middle school. You may or may not have the same friends. You will change classes like you change the toilet paper roll--constantly. Middle school is a daily affirmation that change is part of life, that it can be good or bad, but that you will survive it. 25

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3) Middle school teaches conflict resolution. Conflicts, like some-

If you have thirty minutes or more to listen, ask Antonio what he dreams of being in ten years. WE DO WHAT WE DO BECAUSE CHILDREN HAVE DREAMS.

one using your pen without permission or cutting in front of you in the cafeteria line happen daily in middle school. Do you avoid or accommodate the situation? Mediate or challenge it? Each day provides an opportunity to work on communicating your side of the story and empathizing with the other side. The conflict may not resolve itself every time, but the chances to learn and grow are there.

Note: bullying is a form of conflict that is never okay. You should always talk to a teacher or trusted adult about bullying and be involved with your school to create and promote a safe environment for everyone.

4) Middle school teaches selfacceptance. I still remember when a boy made fun of my butt in 8th grade, taunting me that it was flat compared to the other girls. But the truth? My less than curvaceous derriere didn’t bother me. It still doesn’t, even in a Kim Kardashian world. Middle school is when you get to decide what you like or accept about yourself, regardless of what others think.

5) Middle school shows you what a true friend looks like. Middle school friendships can be sources of comfort and support, but they also can be sources of pain and confusion. Did your supposed best friend reject you this week? Learn from it and choose someone kinder to be in your life. Middle school teaches you that you deserve friends that treat you well, friends that encourage you rather than tear you down.

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So as my daughter heads towards a new adventure in middle school, I will be there to remind her that the lessons and experiences of middle school, although they may be hard or uncomfortable, will mold her, not crush her. That middle school will teach her to become resilient, embrace change, deal with conflict, accept herself, and discover what makes a true friend. MBP

Katy M. Clark is an award-winning writer who has appeared on Scary Mommy, SheKnows Parenting, and Your Teen for Parents. Her articles have been published in magazines including Pregnancy, Atlanta Parent, Pittsburgh Parent, and more. This piece originally appeared on Your Teen (www. yourteenmag.com).

Mobile Bay Parents I August 2022

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Parents, do you ever wonder if you may be taking the whole over-scheduling taboo too seriously? For years, parents have been hearing that kids have too many activities, too much homework, too much screen time, too much sugar...and on and on. Mobile Bay Parents I August 2022

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Personally, I find most parents are intelligent, conscientious, and trying to find a healthy middle ground for everyone in the family. Most parents want their kids to have just the right amount of after school activities. The vast majority seem committed to helping their kids become happier, healthier, more well rounded citizens without pushing them into activity overload. So why not remember a few things kids stand to gain from after school activities instead? Kids can benefit artistically, physically, socially, mentally and personally from after school activities. I contacted a half-dozen after school activity pros, and here are some of the many benefits for kids that we discussed:

are and what they believe. And while we may like to think that our children are born whole and complete, the truth is kids often discover what they are made of after they become immersed in activities that stretch and challenge them. Engaging kids in activities where they feel fully immersed in the experience and are responsible for their own mastery helps kids discover what makes them tick. When it comes to finding an activity for your child, look for outlets that challenge them while providing gradual instruction and skill development.

Fit, Confident Kids

After school activities offer kids outlets for expressing their energy within a safe learning context. Feeling part of a group with a purpose is a beautiful thing, so make sure that the space where your child spends time is safe, fun, and growth-centric. Often kids become as attached to a center, a studio, or a routine as much as they do to a group of peers. When kids go off to their activities, they should feel like they are going to one of their favorite places - to their home away from home. If this is not the case for your child, then you might want to check out other possibilities.

Part Of Something Greater

As Elle Woods reminds us in the film Legally Blonde, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.” But motivating kids to get off the couch is not always easy for parents. Your kids are not typically looking to you to motivate them to run some wind sprints or do a series of gut crunches. They need someone else to step in and motivate them to get moving. This is where after school activities come in, preferably with dedicated, motivating coaches and instructors leading the way. Physical activities increase coordination, inspire discipline, and provide energy outlets for restless kids. So let another trusted adult be in charge for a change, and enjoy your downtime while your kids get more fit.

Memorably Connected If there is one thing all after school activity professionals agree on, it’s the importance of making memories via meaningful connections. Engaged, smiling, busy children are typically happy children. Whether your child’s activity happens in a place rife with variety or in a more specialized space, your child is sure

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make the best tutors, either. Besides, kids often progress faster and more willingly when they work with mentors they don’t already know. And good news, raising academic confidence by teaching learning skills in one subject can pay off in increased academic confidence across the board. So if your child is struggling with critical reading, vocabulary, or math skills, why not try a local tutoring service? Your child has nothing to lose and much to gain. Kids need to feel successful today to become successful tomorrow, and activities can help them experience positive growth gradually. If you don’t channel your child’s energy, video games, TV watching, and other sedentary activities will always be a temptation. If you want engaged, involved, smiling kids, find them some activities they enjoy. You will be so glad you did. MBP

to grow over time, make memories, and understand herself better with regular participation in after school activities. Why not let your kids have the continuity of years of ongoing participation. It’s hard to advance up the activity ranks if you dabble in one activity and then another. Give your child a few years in elementary school to try different activities. Then see if they want to commit to an activity or two during middle school. They can always switch to different activities once they get to high school, if they wish.

Aptitude-rich Some students need extra help to keep up academically, so don’t panic if your child turns out to be one of them. Your child may need extra help that addresses specific needs like standardized test preparation or responding to learning gaps. Other kids simply need help becoming more satisfied students. Tutoring can definitely increase not just aptitude but also enthusiasm. And just as parents don’t always make the best coaches, we also don’t always

Christina Katz is a journalist and author grateful for the opportunities she had to contribute to the school literary journal and newspaper. She also worked off some of her teenage angst on the soccer field, on the softball diamond, and in the school pool. Her latest book is The Art Of Making Time For Yourself.

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Mobile Ballet Inc. ad on page 12

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.

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(251) 342-2241 info@mobileballet.org www.mobileballet.org

Sheffield School of the Dance ad on page 25

1901 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36606 4570 Hermitage Avenue Mobile, 36619 Celebrating our 80th ANNIVERSARY! Mobile & Baldwin’s #1 choice in dance. 5x Nappie Award winner. Age 3 thru Adult. Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Tap and more! Become part of the #SheffieldLegacy!

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(251) 479-3926 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

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. Fall enrollment now open!

ccdancestudioandcompany.com

Art

Dance

Alabama Contemporary Art Center

Broadway South Dance Studio

Dance Academy of West Mobile

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) 209-7774

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

www.coastalmakers.com

Mobile Museum of Art

4850 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 MMofA offers classes for all ages including meditation in Fantastical Forest, teen art, kids’ afterschool pottery classes, and toddler and preschool sessions. Check www.MobileMuseumofArt.com/ learn for a full schedule.

(251) 410-4477 academy@classicalballetmobile.org www.classicalballetmobile.org

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

Debbie’s School Of Dance 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

Mobile Parks and Rec. Community Activities

Gale’s Studio of Dance, Inc.

Numerous locations MobileArt, Music, Sports, Dance, Educational Classes and more. (251) 208-1607

www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Round But Square Studios

3304 Old Shell Road Suite C Mobile, 36608 Our mission is to empower people to live artful lives, develop creative confidence, and experience self-expression through creating. We are a Process Art Studio.

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

ad on page 10

6345 Airport Blvd (Piccadilly Square/Same Shopping Center as Buffalo Wild Wings) Mobile, 36608 Just celebrated our 40th Anniversary! Classes for ages 2 & Up | Offering ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical, character, hip hop, acrobatics and Tip Toes & Tumbling. The 2022 - 2023 Fall Dance Classes begin Wednesday, August 24. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @GalesStudioofDance. Register online: GalesStudioofDance.com. (251) 343-9544

www.galesstudioofdance.com

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

ad on page 7

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

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.

www.dancewithoutlimitsfoundation.org

Grace Dance Center

208 Saraland Blvd South Ste 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 Boulevard Building E Mobile, 36608 HOW offers Drama, Dance, Tumbling, Fitness, Art, Music, and now 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. (251) 408-0219

jubileeschool.dance@gmail.com

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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.mlpac.com

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

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.com

Precision Dance Academy

168 Noel Street Mobile, 36607 Starting our dancers at 18 months, Your Childs individual progress is our main Focus. Proud

Mobile Bay Parents I August 2022

home of the Advanced National Champion Dance Company- The Divas.

(251) 222-3403 www.facebook.com/PrecisionDanceAcademyandCompany

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

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

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 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. (251) 602-8900

www.tpdadancefamily.com

Education and Tutoring Huntington Learning Center ad on Back Cover

2370 Hillcrest Road #D Mobile, 36695 Huntington offers phonics, reading, math, writing, and study skills programs for K-12th grade students and one-on-one ACT/SAT prep programs to help students qualify for scholarships or admittance to their dream college. (251) 525-9239

www.huntingtonhelps.com

Read-Write: The Learning Center ad on page 10

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 9

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

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Class 101 Mobile

7695 Cottage Hill Road, Suite D Mobile, 36695 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 www.class101.com/mobileal/

Gulf Coast Young Engineers

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.

STEM for Kids

Ms. Daphne’s CheerNastics

(251) 767-5446

Find us on Facebook

Kumon Learning Center

The Smartatorium

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

Lindamood-Bell Learning

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

(251) 473-6808 lindamoodbell.com/location/mobileal-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

www.mathnasium.com/mobile

Mrs Lisa’s Gym & Cheer

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

STARTSMART College Bound - Career Ready

Offering engineering robotics STEM after-school enrichment programs and workshops. Grades 3-6. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram. gulfcoast@e2youngengineers.com

(251) 666-0559 www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/ cottage-hill-gymnastics-center/

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.

www.philipmartinact.com

5906 Sweetwater Circle Fairhope, 36532 STEM for Kids makes learning Fun and REAL! Follow us on Facebook and.

(251) 454-0570

differing ability levels and ages. 18 months - high school.

(251) 210-8781

(251) 599-2205

http://www.sfkmobay.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. (251) 300-9697

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

Find us on Facebook

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

Nasser Gymnastics and Cheerleading

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

(251) 471-9708

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 https://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

https://rogueallstars.com/mobile

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Horseback Riding Celisse’s School of the Equestrian

2568 Sollie Road Mobile, 36695 Our Mission: To educate, heal, and enrich lives by joining forces with horses. (251) 289-1244

www.CSEAMobile.org

Mimi C. Peters Riding School at Silver Lining Farm

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

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 17

9120 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608 All ages and levels. A safe, state of the art facility with a focus on Christian Values. (251) 776-1978

www.ismartialarts.com

Graham’s Elite Martial Arts

1121 Dawes Road Mobile, 36695 Kids, teens classes and after school martial arts program. Our Martial Arts Classes Are The Best Way To Help Your Child Reach Their Full Potential. (251) 633-7837

www.grahamselitemartialarts.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

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

www.max3kids.com

McCranie ATA Martial Arts

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

www.mccranieata.com

McLean’s Martial Arts & Fitness

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

www.mcleansmartialarts.com

Port City Combat Sports

7335 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36695 A place where kids and families can go to learn martial arts, get in shape, and improve their overall sense of well being. (251) 470-0903

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

springhilltaekwondo.com

Music ad on page 3

63 Midtown Park East Mobile, 36606 Group classes and private lessons for those interested in learning an instrument. Daniel Driskell, Director - piano, guitar, bass, mandolin, saxophone, clarinet, flute/Angela Rayburn – piano/David White - drums, percussion/Joshua Ward - guitar, bass/Laryssa Burgess, piano/Natalie Blackburn - violin, viola, cello/Shane Philen - woodwinds, music theory and piano/Elizabeth Weaver - violin and cello. www.fullscaleschool.com

Andy’s Music Inc.

1412 Hillcrest Road Mobile, 36695 Locally owned and operated family business. We are the only full-line musical instrument store in Mobile offering lessons, rentals, instrument repair, and a complete music department. (251) 633-8944

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Broussard’s Academy of Music

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

broussardspianos.com/academy/

Christ UMC - Kindermusik

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

www.kindermusikatchristunited.com

Mobile Music Teachers Association

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

The same familiar physicians, staff and care now with a new name.

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

DIEGMANN & HENDERSON OBGYN

As a group, our physicians are dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for women through all phases of their lives. From pregnancy to menopause, our office brings experience and innovation.

is now

Mobile Symphony Strings in Schools, String Academy and Chamber Strings

Mobile & Eastern ShoreThe 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

We understand that life is busy, so we are pleased to offer, in most instances, same day appointments. We also provide Telemedicine appointments through certain insurance providers.

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

www.mobilesingingchildren.org

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

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; Gymnastics classes with Chelle Ferguson & Dance classes with Rebekah Howard also available. (251) 510-1808 azaleacity@mindspring.com www.azaleacityarts.com

Sunny Side Theater/ Actor’s Edge ad on page 3

63 Midtown Park East MobileSunny 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 productions for the year include James & The Giant Peach, Heathers,

251.990.6550

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Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Jungle Book, & Addams Family.

(251) 510-1808

www.sunnysidedrama.com

www.playhouseinthepark.org

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

www.girlscoutssa.org

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.

Boy Scouts of America

(251) 307-5056

(251) 476-4600

www.thepactmobile.com

6/30/22 2:04 PM

ad on page 18

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.

The PACT Theatre Company

Scouting

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama

Playhouse in the Park

(251) 422-5434

bwhfairhope.com

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. www.bsamac.org

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

Sewing All About Sewing

590 Schillinger Rd South, Suite D Mobile, 36695 Classes and private lessons available! (251) 634-3133

www.allaboutsewinginc.com

Sewing with Miss Kathy

6103 Southbend Drive South Mobile, 36619 Teaching the love of sewing to all ages. (251) 454-5263

Sewingwithmisskathy.com

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 of our church and community. As a sports program we will always strive to increase skill development, game strategy, game rules, and enjoyment of sports. (251) 706-3326

christunitedcsports.com

City of Mobile Swim Assoc. (CMSA)

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 2 ½ to adult, beginners to competitors & skaters 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

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

www.heislerheatbaseball.com

High Velocity Sports

2513 Leroy Stevens Road Mobile, 36695 A sports training facility offering Sports Performance, Fitness, Batting Cages, Baseball/Softball, Indoor Soccer, Speed& Agility, Strength, Camps, and more! (251) 639-2261

Find us on Facebook

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

Michael Brisbane Golf Instruction

(251) 422-0011

(251) 490-3812

www.swimcmsa.com

Empire Athletics

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

www.empireathleticstraining.com

1000 Gaillard Drive Mobile, 36608 Golf lessons for all ages and skill levels. www.michaelbrisbanegolf.com

Mobile Parks and Recreation Community Activities

Numerous locations MobileArt, Music, Sports, Dance, Gymnastics, Educational Classes and more. (251) 208-1607

www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Mobile United Futbol Club

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

www.mobileunitedfc.com

Springhill Baptist Youth Sports

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

St. Luke’s Youth Team Sports

3975 Japonica Lane Mobile, 36609 For information on outside participation for students that do not attend St. Luke’s, please email swaite@slesmobile.org. We are now registering for the following Fall sports: (tackle football, flag football, cheerleading, cross country and volleyball). (251) 666-2991

www.ydlsports.net

The Copeland-Cox Tennis Center

851 Gaillard Drive Mobile, 36608 Offers a variety of tennis clinics. Facilities: Medal of Honor (1711 Hillcrest Rd), Lyons Park (180 Lyons Park Ave) and Mobile Tennis Center. (251) 208-5181

www.mobiletenniscenter.net

The Performance Lab

842 Schillinger Rd S Suite B Mobile, 36695 A 30,000 square foot indoor sports training facility specializing in baseball and softball (251) 307-5548

www.performancelabmobile.com

Volleyball

A resource directory of area volleybal clubs. www.gulfcoastvolleyball.org/club-directory MBP

Call us today to schedule your appointment!

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

Mobile Bay Parents I August 2022

www.mobilebayparents.com

Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases Minions: The Rise of Gru

Rating PG

Overall B+

Violence B

Sex B+

Profanity A-

Alcohol/Drugs A

Eleven-year-old Gru has a burning ambition: to join the Vicious Six, a notorious group of supervillains. After he’s rejected due to his age, Gru decides to prove himself bystealing the Zodiac Stone they have looted. With the supervillains in pursuit, Gru and his minions are going to need luck and loyalty to survive. Manic minion humor and nonstop fart jokes will amuse kids; the 70s references are there for the adults. Photo ©Universal Pictures

l for ot.

Thor: Love and Thunder

Theaters

Rating PG-13

Overall B-

Violence C

Sex B-

Profanity C

Alcohol/Drugs C

Gorr the God Butcher is on the attack, killing deities wherever he can find them and abducting the children of Asgard. Thor has been adventuring with the Guardians of the Galaxy but now he returns home to save his people, only to find that another Thor is on the case. Like Thor: Ragnarok, this is full of wisecracking fun but it has a much more somber tone due to its focus on death, love, and loss. The movie also features dark action sequences that will terrify most kids. On the other hand, there are some giant screaming goats…. Photo © Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Theaters

The Sea Beast

Netflix

Rating PG

Overall A-

Violence B-

Sex A

Profanity A-

Alcohol/Drugs C+

Jacob Holland is a famous monster hunter, heading off on a voyage to destroy the infamous Red Bluster, a gigantic beast with a repuration for sinking dozens of ships. When Jacob discovers young Maisie Brumble stowed away on his vessel, he fears for her safety. This animated feature manages what few films do: it successfully combines high quality animation, an entertaining story, swashbuckling adventure, and strong positive messages. Best of all, it never becomes preachy and can be enjoyed by the entire family. Photo ©Netflix

Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank

Theaters

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

B-

Preparing for a visit by the Shogun, Ika Chu is doing all he can to prepare. He is even deviously appointing a new samurai to the town of Kakamucho – Hank, a dog who was facing execution for being found in cat territory. Having such an ill-trained sumarai will make it possible for Ika Chu to wipe the town off the map. Despite an excellent voice cast and some clever animation, this movie is not a standout production. The jokes are aimed at kids with little attention paid to adults except for a tsunami of movie references to better films. Photo ©Paramount Pictures

Marcel the Shell With Shoes On

Theaters

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

B+

Marcel is a seashell who lives in an Airbnb with his grandmother and pet lint. An angry tenant took away dozens of Marcel’s friends and now he hopes that a new tenant can help find his missing pals. This is a sweet film, full of Marcel’s simple, wistful wisdom. It’s harmless for kids, but is likely too slow to hold their attention. That said, it overflows with an enthusiastic optimism that feels badly needed in these contentious, stressful times. Photo ©A24 Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com 37

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The long summer days of sunshine, pooltime, travel, and enjoying a leisurely schedule are coming to a close as a new school year quickly approaches. Some kids enjoy all of the excitement and promise of a new school year but others may find the thought of waking up early, completing nightly homework, and the stress that goes along with maintaining good grades something to dread rather than look forward to. Parents can help get kids excited for the new school year so they don’t lose their motivation before the school year even starts.

Set a good example

For busy parents, it can be easy to get down about the thought of getting up early, packing lunches, helping with homework, shopping for school supplies, and prodding the kids out the door every morning. Our kids feed off of our attitude and if we are dreading the back-to-school routine, chances are they will too. On the other hand, if a parent focuses on the positives of a new school year such as having a fresh start with a new teacher, making new friends, and the fun of being challenged and learning new things, our kids will feed off of this excitement and start to look forward to a new school year also.

Use what they love

A great way to motivate a child is to use something they are already looking forward to. If you have a social child, then remind them they will have daily time with friends. If they love sports, remind them they will have the opportunity to participate in P.E. class, play at recess, or participate in school sports. If they have a favorite subject, focus on the opportunity to learn more throughout the school year. Encourage your child to get involved in clubs and activities that include things that they love and are interested in. For some kids, buying a new backpack and school supplies will be a great motivator for them. Consider what will motivate your child and focus on the positive aspects that are related to school and what your child loves about it.

Be realistic

One way to motivate your kids is to be honest with them about the importance of a good education. School is necessary and important for your child to build their skills in reading, math, science, and understanding the world around them. It’s also important to do well in school if they would like to continue on to college. For younger kids, college may seem like the distant future. Parents can explain that they use reading and math skills every day. The teamwork and social skills they learn in school will also help them learn to work with others in sports and play.

Create healthy habits

Encourage your child to get a good night’s rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and focus on good study habits. An after school routine to complete homework and chores will help your child adjust to the back-to-school routine. Set aside time for free time as well. Host a playdate, have a movie night, go to the park, and schedule time for fun and relaxation so kids don’t get too bored with their routine.

Share your expectations

It’s important to let your child know you have high expectations for the upcoming school year. Work with your child to set goals for success and reward them for meeting their goals. Some kids may need an academic goal, while others need goals such as no tardies for the quarter or turning all assignments in on time. It may help to communicate with your child’s teacher to come up with some beneficial goals for your child. Rewards could include a special outing as a family, going out for ice cream, picking out a special toy, or extra screen time. As your family kicks off a new school year, try to stay positive and use things that already motivate your child to get them excited about the new school year ahead. MBP Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and frequent contributor.

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FamilyCalendar Thursday August 4

(Adults - $6, Kids (under 12) and Seniors (60+) $3)

7:00 PM Saenger Theatre Mobile, 6 S Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series-The Goonies https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

off each night at 8:00pm with FREE children’s activities beginning nightly at 6:00pm. https://jennifermoorefoundation.com/ Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents Escape to Margaritaville 7:30 PM Details on August 5. Sam Schjott Memorial Kayak Classic Various Locations, Join us August 6 & 7 for another year of fun fishing with the 2022 Kayak Classic. This year we are featuring 2 days of fishing with a new virtual tournament format so participants can fish from anywhere they want within the tournament zone. www.bayoulabatreareachamber.org/bayou-kayak-classic

Sunday August 7

Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents Escape to Margaritaville 2:00 PM Details on August 5. 2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series

Free Family Movie Night at West End Beach (Free) Dusk West End Beach, Dauphin Island, AL Free Family Movie Night—A SIMPLE WISH- is sponsored by Greer’s Markets. Movies begin at DUSK. www.townofdauphinisland.org

(Adults - $6, Kids (under 12) and Seniors (60+) $3)

Friday August 5

Sam Schjott Memorial Kayak Classic Various Locations, Join us August 6 & 7 for another year of fun fishing with the 2022 Kayak Classic. This year we are featuring 2 days of fishing with a new virtual tournament format so participants can fish from anywhere they want within the tournament zone. www.bayoulabatreareachamber.org/bayou-kayak-classic

Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation - Annual 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 FREE children’s activities beginning nightly at 6:00pm. https://jennifermoorefoundation.com/ Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents Escape to Margaritaville 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 S Carlen St Mobile, AL, 36606 Joe Jefferson Playhouse is Proud to Present the Alabama Premier of Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville, August 5th - 21st, 2022 251-471-1534 http://www.joejeffersonplayers.com/ Free Family Movie Night at West End Beach (Free) Dusk West End Beach, Dauphin Island, AL Free Family Movie Night—THE LITTLE MERMAID- is sponsored by Greer’s Markets. Movies begin at DUSK. www.townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday August 6

Rubber Ducky Regatta 10:00 AM Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 Mobile’s 6th annual Rubber Ducky Regatta will make a splash on August 6, 2022, by dropping thousands of rubber duckies into the Mobile River. The “adopted” duckies will race to the finish line and the three fastest ducky’s adopters will have a chance to win some fabulous prizes! All proceeds will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile https://rubberduckyregatta.com/ Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation - Annual 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

Mobile Bay Parents I August 2022

3:00 PM Saenger Theatre Mobile, 6 S Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series-42nd Street https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Thursday August 11

212th Birthday of Madame Octavia Walton LeVert ($35) 6:00 PM Oakleigh House Museum, 300 Oakleigh Pl Mobile, AL, 36604 At this very special birthday event guests will get to see rare archival items relating to Octavia’s life and participate in an intimate discussion with local author Paula Webb. 2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series

(Adults - $6, Kids (under 12) and Seniors (60+) $3)

7:00 PM Saenger Theatre Mobile, 6 S Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series-Clerks https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Free Family Movie Night at West End Beach (Free) Dusk West End Beach, Dauphin Island, AL Free Family Movie Night—ELLA ENCHANTED- is sponsored by Greer’s Markets. Movies begin at DUSK. www.townofdauphinisland.org

Friday August 12

Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents Escape to Margaritaville 7:30 PM Details on August 5. Free Family Movie Night at West End Beach (Free) Dusk West End Beach, Dauphin Island, AL Free Family Movie Night—ANDRE- is sponsored by Greer’s Markets. Movies begin at DUSK. www.townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday August 13 Satsuma 2 - Miler Grand Prix-Corporate Cup Awards 7:30 AM 368 Juniper Ave Mobile, AL, 36532 This year’s PCP kick off race will be held in Satsuma at the Community Center. www.portcitypacers.com

Living History Drill 8:00 AM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Parkway, Mobile, AL, 36602 Come see history come to life with our WWII historical reenactors as they board the battleship USS ALABAMA and submarine USS DRUM. Be on deck for “call to battle stations” at 1:00 p.m. and watch the crew repels an air attack by vintage airplanes, weather permitting. See our 20mm and 40mm guns fire and the crew fight to defend the ship. www.ussalabama.com Saturdays at the Coop 7:00 PM Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 Special Saturdays at the Coop this August with a YACHT ROCK theme! Pull up your boats along the waterfront at Cooper Riverside Park and listen to live music with us! www.mobile.org Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents Escape to Margaritaville 7:30 PM Details on August 5.

Sunday August 14

Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents Escape to Margaritaville 2:00 PM Details on August 5.

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3:00 PM Saenger Theatre Mobile, 6 S Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series-Dr. Strangelove https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

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Monday August 15

2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series

(Adults - $6, Kids (under 12) and Seniors (60+) $3)

Rainbow Fish Auditions 6:00 PM 63 Midtown Park E Mobile, AL, 36606 Rainbow Fish Auditions-please visit our website to fill out an audition form. 251-510-1808 https://www.sunnysidedrama.com/

Tuesday August 16

Rainbow Fish Auditions 6:00 PM 63 Midtown Park E Mobile, AL, 36606 Rainbow Fish Auditions-please visit our website to fill out an audition form. 251-510-1808 https://www.sunnysidedrama.com/

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Thursday August 18

2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series

(Adults - $6, Kids (under 12) and Seniors (60+) $3)

7:00 PM Saenger Theatre Mobile, 6 S Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series-When Harry Met Sally https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/ Via 50th Anniversary Starting at 6:00 p.m. at the Via Center in Midtown. The celebration will feature a special Memory Exhibit, a walk through time with photographs from our history. The evening’s festivities

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upscale vintage-inspired market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more. vintagemarketdays.com Jurassic Quest Mobile Convention Center, Mobile, AL, 36602 Mobile dinosaur lovers! Come see for yourself why Jurassic Quest is America’s biggest and most popular dinosaur event at Mobile Convention

Friday August 19

Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents Escape to Margaritaville 7:30 PM Details on August 5.

Saturday August 20

Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents Escape to Margaritaville 7:30 PM Details on August 5.

Sunday August 21

Joe Jefferson Playhouse presents Escape to Margaritaville 2:00 PM Details on August 5. 2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series

(Adults - $6, Kids (under 12) and Seniors (60+) $3)

3:00 PM Saenger Theatre Mobile, 6 S Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series-Invasion of the Body Snatchers https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Tuesday August 23

Mobile Homeschool Expo 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 2440 Gordon Smith Dr, Mobile, AL, 36617 Mobile Homeschool Expo mobilehomeschoolexpo.com

Wednesday August 24

Wee Exchange Huge Kids’ Resale 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, AL, 36695 The Largest Children’s Consignment Sale on the Gulf Coast. Helping parents outfit their kids for pennies on the dollar. https://wee-exchange.com/

Thursday August 25

Wee Exchange Huge Kids’ Resale 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Details on August 24. https://wee-exchange.com/ 2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series

(Adults - $6, Kids (under 12) and Seniors (60+) $3)

7:00 PM Saenger Theatre Mobile, 6 S Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series-The Karate Kid (1984) https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Friday August 26

Friday Night Live 6:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us on August 26th for this free evening of Live Music and Family-Friendly Fun in Downtown Mobile between Dauphin and Franklin Streets. www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events/friday-nightlive-1 Wee Exchange Huge Kids’ Resale 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Details on August 24. Vintage Market Days 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 Vintage Market Days is an

Center, August 26-28. www.asmglobalmobile.com/events/detail/jurassic-quest

Saturday August 27

Wee Exchange Huge Kids’ Resale 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, AL, 36695 The Largest Children’s Consignment Sale on the Gulf Coast. Helping parents outfit their kids for pennies on the dollar. https://wee-exchange.com/ Vintage Market Days 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Details on August 26.

American Cancer Society Vintage Affair Gala Country Club of Mobile, 4101 Wimbledon Dr W Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us at the American Cancer Society 2022 Vintage Affair Mobile Gala on Thursday, September 8, 2022, for a one-of-a-kind evening, featuring great food, dancing, a spectacular auction, and much more. With your support, the American Cancer Society saves lives by helping people stay well and get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back against cancer. 251-422-6521 https://acsmobile.ejoinme.org/ VintageAffair

Friday September 9

Joe Gatto - Night of Comedy 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Joe Gatto - Night of Comedy https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/ Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “The Play that Goes Wrong” 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois St. Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “The Play that Goes Wrong” 251-457-8887 chickasawcivictheater@gmail.com https://cctshows.com/

Saturday September 10

Jurassic Quest Details on August 26.

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “The Play that Goes Wrong” 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois St. Chickasaw, AL, 36611 251-457-8887 https://cctshows.com/

Sunday August 28

Sunday September 11

Vintage Market Days 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Details on August 26.

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “The Play that Goes Wrong” 2:00 PM Details on September 10.

2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series

(Adults - $6, Kids (under 12) and Seniors (60+) $3)

3:00 PM Saenger Theatre Mobile, 6 S Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 2022 Saenger Summer Classic Movie Series-Blazing Saddles https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/ Jurassic Quest Details on August 26.

Thursday September 1

Sunday Sunset Concert ($5 per person with free admission for children 12 and under.) 5:30 PM West End Beach, Dauphin Island, AL

Tuesday September 6

Andra Bohnet, Faculty Flute Recital 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Andra Bohnet, USA Faculty Flute Recital 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/mas.html

Thursday September 8 Movies in the Park Fall 2022 6:00 PM Details on September 1.

Jim Reyelt, USA Faculty Guitar Recital 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Andra Bohnet, USA Faculty Flute Recital 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/mas.html

Wednesday September 14

Movies in the Park Fall 2022 6:00 PM Langan Park, Mobile, AL, 36608 Movies In The Park is a free event that will happen every Thursday in Fall! 8 Movies in 8 Parks! Bring your blankets, chairs and coolers for a Movie Night with Us! All Events Start at 6PM. Movies Play at Dark. www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events/movies-inthe-park-fall-2024

Sunday September 4

Tuesday September 13

Zach Williams Concert 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre Mobile, 6 S Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join Zach Williams and special guest Ben Fuller for a night of music and ministry that will fill your heart and have you singing along all night long! https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Thursday September 15 Movies in the Park Fall 2022 6:00 PM Details on September 1.

UCP Food & Folly 6:30 PM Ft. Whiting, 1630 S Broad St Mobile, AL, 36602 Bringing the spirit of Mardi Gras to September, UCP asks Mobile area restaurants to prepare some of their most celebrated cuisine. There is a people choice award and craft breweries and upper scale wines for tasting. There will also be a silent auction including condos, golf passes and attractions. Music is provided by the Excelsior Band. http://www.ucpmobile.org

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FamilyCalendar Friday September 16

HBA of Mobile Professional Women in Building Yard Sale 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 1613 University Blvd S Mobile, AL, 36609 Raising money for local charities throughout the Mobile area. Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “The Play that Goes Wrong” 7:30 PM Details on September 10.

Saturday September 17

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “The Play that Goes Wrong” 7:30 PM Details on September 10.

Sunday September 18

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “The Play that Goes Wrong” 2:00 PM Details on September 10. Mobile River Food & Music Festival 2:00 PM 7:00 PM, Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 This event will highlight local restaurants and chefs and include exciting musical performances from local artists. The gates open at 1PM. www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/ MTQ3ODM4

Thursday September 22

Movies in the Park Fall 2022 6:00 PM Arlington Park, Mobile, AL Movies In The Park is a free event that will happen every Thursday in Fall! 8 Movies in 8 Parks! Bring your blankets, chairs and coolers for a Movie Night with Us! All Events Start at 6PM. Movies Play at Dark. www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events/movies-inthe-park-fall-2024 USA Symphony Band and USA Wind Ensemble Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Andra Bohnet, USA Faculty Flute Recital 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/mas.html

Every Monday

Chess Club 4:00 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us every Monday to learn the game or improve your skill at the game of chess! Playing chess improves concentration and problem-solving skills. This program is designed or for children and teens ages 12-18, but children of all ages are welcome. (251) 340-1588 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Tuesday

Read and Play Storytime 10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us in Bernheim Hall for a socially distant storytime event. Masks are required. Children enjoy 20 minutes of books, songs, manipulatives, and rhymes, with an emphasis on repetition for their developing minds. Story and book time is followed by a time of free play with a sensory activity. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Mobile Bay Parents I August 2022

Every Wednesday

Good Listener Storytime at Moorer Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Early reading ignites creativity, sparks curiosity, and stimulates the imagination in young children. This half-hour program is designed to help promote their passion for learning. For your convenience, the program is offered at three different times on Wednesdays: 10am, 11:30am, and 1:30pm choose the time that works best for you! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Good Listener Storytime at Semmes 10:30 AM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for stories, songs, and dances! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Wonderful Wednesday Storytime 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM, Theodore Oaks, 5808 US-90 West E Theodore, AL, 36582 Join us for stories and songs and lots of fun! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Second Wednesdays

Awesome Wednesday Art Space 4:00 PM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Mobile, AL, 36608 Artist Jaime Lee and other guest presenters will teach you how to make a different art form every 2nd Wednesday of the month. Ages 8 -14. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 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

Second Fridays

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. mobilearts.org/art-walk/

Every Saturday

Saturday Crafternoon 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM, Theodore Oaks, 5808 US-90 West E Theodore, AL, 36582 Join us in the lobby every Saturday to get creative and make a fun craft! If you need additional information, please email the Theodore Oaks Branch Circulation desk at theocir@ mplonline.org or call (251) 662-9676. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

First and third Sundays

Animal Ambassadors 2:00 PM Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at 2 PM as we present one or more of our live educational animals. Free, family friendly, no registration required. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

First Sunday of every month

Free First Sunday - History Museum of Mobile

(Free) 1:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal

Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Free admission for all visitors sponsored by Wind Creek Hospitality every first Sunday of the month! 251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Every Thursday

Chess Club 4:00 PM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Mobile, AL, 36608 Semmes Regional Library Chess Club is designed for children and teens ages 6 - 18. Playing chess improves concentration and problemsolving skills. No experience is necessary www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Family Storytime at West Regional Library 4:00 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Youth Room for a storytime for the whole family! (251) 340-1588 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Steam Club 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join the club and explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) with hands-on activities that get kids thinking and building! STEAM Club meets each Thursday at 4:00 p.m in the Youth Programming Room at Ben May Main Library. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every other Thursday

Create it, Build it, Play it! at Grand Bay 4:00 PM Grand Bay Library, 10329 Freeland Ave Grand Bay, AL, 36541 Join us in the Meeting Room every other Thursday in for some fun with crafts and activities! Get creative and have fun with other people that love arts and crafts! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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Should I Buy a Hybrid to Deal with Gas Prices?

Q. Do you think I should get a new hybrid

car to save money on gas? A lot of my friends have done this, and with the rise in gas and oil prices lately, they’re telling me I should, too. According to them, I’ll save a ton of money, especially since I have a bigger car and a longer drive to work. What are your thoughts?

A. I get lots of questions about these kinds of scenarios, and how it plays into people’s budgets. Many folks wonder if it would be better to go out and get a new vehicle with better gas mileage. Well, do you really want to lose more money? Let’s say you currently drive a vehicle worth $10,000 that gets 15 miles per gallon. There’s a $25,000 hybrid you’re thinking about buying that gets 25 miles per gallon. That’s a $15,000 price difference just

Mobile Bay Parents I August 2022

to get 10 more miles a gallon. If you drive 100 miles a week, that’s about a $10 difference a week. That would be about $40 extra you’re spending a month in gas if you stuck with the current car. A monthly car payment is a whole lot more than that! In short, the math doesn’t work. You’d have to drive to the moon and back to make it worthwhile. There are a lot smarter things you can do to cut down on your fuel bill. Have you thought about trading for something smaller? If you’re driving a gas guzzler, trade it in on another car worth no more than your current car’s selling price. This means better fuel efficiency without a car payment. Carpooling is an option, too, even if you split the driving just a few days a week.

If you want to get a little more radical with the money-saving ideas, you could think about moving closer to work. Spend some time doing the calculations and looking at the specifics to see if it makes sense in your case. Finally, and this may be a last ditch effort, you could consider changing jobs. No one’s forcing you to work where you do, especially if you’re spending a lot of time and money on the road just getting to and from your job. If you’re really spending a ridiculous amount on gas each month, it might even be time to look into ideas you may have once had to start your own business. But don’t use better gas mileage, or bad advice from your friends, as a rationalization for buying a new car. It’s just not worth it!

www.mobilebayparents.com

Back to School IMMUNIZATIONS Is your child vaccinated? GRADE

Required Shots

K-5

• Hep A • Hep B • DTaP • IPV • MMR • Varicella

6-8

• Hep B • MCV4 • Hep A • DTaP • MMR • Varicella • IPV • Tdap

9-12

• Hep B • Varicella • Hep A • DTaP • MMR • Tdap • IPV • MCV4

Recommended Shots: Covid-19 (Ages 5 and up) HPV (Ages 9 and up) • Flu (All ages) www.alabamapublichealth.gov/immunization

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©2020 Huntington Mark, LLC. Independently Owned and Operated. SAT and Advanced Placement (AP) are registered trademarks of the College Board. PSAT/NMSQT is a registered trademark of the College Board and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. None of these entities were involved in the production of, and do not endorse, this program. *Not valid with any other offers. **Grade level results are based on cumulative average grade level increases in reading and math for 17,445 students from 2010-2014 using the full set of available student data. ***Results are based on surveys of 3,289 Huntington students graduating in 2019, using their initial Huntington Academic Evaluation and final SAT/ACT test score. HLC3905