Mobile Bay Parents Summer Camps Issue (March 2024)

March 2024

32

Seven signs that your child is ready to spend days or weeks away from home.

40

38 Summer Camp

Find the perfect fit for your child in our listing of local and regional camps.

The Camp Next Door

When kids aren’t ready to go away, consider the benefits of day camp.

Teens and Screens

Recognizing all the online noise in your teen’s life and ideas to quiet it.

On The Cover

Gracie Eisenbeis (14) is the daughter of Beth Eisenbeis and has two older brothers, Hudson and Colton. She has danced with Mobile Ballet for nine years and has danced in the Company for two years. She is a volleyball player and varsity cheerleader for Cottage Hill Christian Academy. Gracie likes to spend her free time drawing and playing sports with her brothers. Her favorite things are her pets, spending time with friends, and going to the beach.

60 Tweens, Teens and Screens

12

48

FromthePublisher

I grew up next door to a girl who was my age, and we would spend countless hours at each other houses. As we got old enough, we loved having sleepovers... until around 10 pm. Every single time, I would get homesick, pack up my stuff, and walk across the driveway to be in my own room. As I got older, my Girl Scout troop scheduled a fun sleep-away weekend camp. All of my friends were going, and I was so excited!! But when it came time for my mom to leave, the tears showed up, and I ended up in the car headed back home with her. I was just not ready.

What I am ready for is our annual Summer Camp Issue ! We have received phone calls, emails, and messages for the last few weeks asking when the much-anticipated summer camp issue will hit the stands. Well, the wait is over, and it is time to prepare for serious planning.

With the plethora of opportunities for camps in the area, your child can explore new interests, enhance skills in a sport they love, or participate in educational opportunities, all while having fun with new friends! Consider sitting down with your child and checking out this year’s camp guide together. As usual, it is packed with everything from art camps to zoo camps and so much more, including overnight camps and full-day camps. It does not matter if your child is interested in sports, theater, music, science, or all of it; you will find many options in this valuable resource. So pull out your highlighters and calendars and flip over to the 2024 Summer Camp Directory.

As I mentioned earlier, the timing of my first sleep-away camp was a little early. However, I have many friends, including my husband, who counted down the days to go away to summer camp. They had days full of activities, met friends from different places, and had a blast! You may ask yourself if your child is ready for sleep-away camp. In Seven Signs Your Kids are Ready for Sleep-Away Camp, Tanni Haas provides some helpful thoughts. It may be that your child is ready, but you are not. If you are still a bit nervous about sending your child too far away, there are some overnight camps here in our area.

If you think your child is not quite ready (or you are not quite ready) for sleepaway camp, but you still want your child to have that full-day camp experience, check out the options in Sarah Lyon’s article The Camp Next Door . Day camps offer much of what an overnight camp offers, but you still get to tuck your kiddos in at night.

I hope you have as much fun reading this month’s Summer Camp Issue as we had putting it together. Also, check out all the fun events scheduled this month in the Family Calendar. With spring just around the corner, we enjoy even more community events in the area! Hope to see you there!

Publisher

Editor

DeAnne Watson deanne@mobilebayparents.com

Research Editor

Lucy Green

Contributing Writers

Gabriele Jones

Sarah Lyons

Cover Photography

President

Advertising

Ad Design

Tim Welch

Web Content Manager Scott

by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com

Resolving Sibling Conflict

“My children are constantly fighting, and I am losing my mind!” All parents with more than one child have expressed this frustration at least once. Just know sibling conflict is a normal and valuable part of family life. These fights can be beneficial because they can teach interpersonal skills that will last a lifetime. These skills include listening to others, cooperating in tense situations, appreciating a different person’s point of view, and managing emotions.

When your children are around four to five years old, you should begin teaching them how to mediate conflict. Successful mediation is a skill that must be taught and practiced. This means you will be helping them mediate hundreds of conflicts before they know how to do it independently.

What not to do...

sibling conflicts will only increase because you are not teaching the skills they need to manage the conflict on their own.

What to do...

1. Be quiet, observe your children fighting, and do not allow yourself to make assumptions. You might be surprised by what you learn.

Do not ignore the fighting or rush in and take control. When you do this, the

2. You must stay calm. Do not add to the chaos by being overly emotional.

3. If a child is physically or verbally aggressive, stop the behavior and remove the child from the situation. You do not want your children to believe aggression is an appropriate way to get what they want.

4. Give everyone some time to become calm. Make it clear that no one will talk about the problem until everyone is calm.

5. When everyone is ready to communi-

cate, make the rules for the conversation clear. For example, everyone must listen, everyone is responsible for helping solve the problem, etc.

6. Clarify what argument will be discussed. Force your children to work through the most recent conflict and prevent them from bringing in past experiences.

7. To build empathy and understanding, allow each child to share their perspective.

8. Encourage the children to explain possible solutions. Have them act out what they will do the next time this conflict arises.

Things to remember...

1. Treat all children fairly, but not the same. Every child has different strengths and weaknesses. Help them learn what to do in areas where they are weak and encourage them to continue developing in their areas of strength.

2. Use encouraging speech. Avoid saying things like, “You are older; you should know better.” Instead, point out what should have happened and have the child practice.

3. Be prepared. Your children will fight; have a plan for how you will respond when this happens.

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.

Mobile Botanical Gardens

50th Birthday Celebration

Make your plans to attend the “Golden Birthday Celebration” of the Mobile Botanical Gardens (MBG) on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at 6 pm. The MBG Board of Directors invites you to the Gardens for a festive night of jazz, food and drink, and fun while taking in the magical surroundings of the Gardens in spring. Music by the regionally well-known Jimmy Roebuck Jazz Trio will fill the air. A delicious cocktail buffet by Georgia Roussos Catering, craft beer by Braided River Brewing Company,

Mobile Literary Festival –March 23, 2024

Aspiring and accomplished writers and readers of all genres are welcome at the 2024 Mobile Literary Festival. This year’s festival will be held from 9:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. at the Ben May Main Library (701 Government Street) on Saturday, March 23. We will be offering: setting the Stage: a panel discussion on setting, entrances, exits, & the Inbetweens: a panel discussion on plotting, find your audience: learn to market your book, Sue Brannan Walker’s Poetry (Brown Bag) lunch & listen, scene to screen: dive into screen adaptations and writing away refuge pitch war. We are pleased to welcome back

Gulf Coast Fitness Palooza

Join Mobile Parks and Recreation Department in the heart of downtown Mobile as we promote and celebrate healthy lifestyles at our inaugural fitness festival. It’s the ultimate fitness party showcasing a variety of fitness disciplines, including step aerobics, yoga, running, Zumba, Kid’s Zone, CrossFit, strongman, powerlifting, duathlon, and more! Friday, March 15, 6 - 7 pm and Saturday, March 16, 7 am - 12 pm at Mardi Gras Park.

5th Annual Krewe of Kindness Ball

Join us on Saturday, April 6, 2024 for our 5th Annual Krewe of Kindness Ball. This year, we sail across the open ocean and see how far we’ll go! Open to all ages, we return to the Battle House Hotel to dance and enjoy a night with family and friends. The Krewe of Kindness, a volunteer-based and family led non- profit organization, was formed to help provide support and assistance to families and individuals in our area to enable them to lead healthy and active lifestyles while emphasizing the importance of inclusion and acceptance within our community. Please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/5th-annual-krewe-of-kindness-ball-

8th Annual Downtown Cajun Cook-Off

Cunningham Bounds, LLC Presents The Downtown Cajun Cook-Off on March 23 from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm in Cathedral Square. Enjoy tasting delicious eats from competitive teams, music, cold drinks, and more to benefit the Child Advocacy Center. Please visit https://www.cacmobile.org/buynow. shtml for more information.

Rubber Ducky Regatta

Join us on March 26 at OWA Parks & Resorts from 11:00am-4:00pm for the Rubber Ducky Regatta, 100% of the benefits go to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile. The first three ducks to cross the finish line will win some fabulous prizes for their owners. Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile (RMHC) provides a home away from home for families whose seriously ill or injured children are receiving medical care at an area hospital. While each rubber ducky you adopt gives you a chance to great win prizes, you will also be helping sick children heal quicker by ensuring their families can be near them at all times. So bring your family and enjoy a fun-filled day of family activities, games, live music, food, and more. Please visit https://rubberduckyregatta.com/.

TOUCH A TRUCK

TOUCH A TRUCK is a family friendly event that offers children a hands-on opportunity to explore a variety of trucks & meet the people who build, protect & serve our community. Children will be allowed to climb aboard and ask questions about their favorite trucks in a safe environment. Admission is $20 per vehicle at the event. This fundraiser will benefit Rapahope Children’s Retreat Foundation & Adoption Rocks, so come out on Saturday, March 16, 2024 from 10:00am-2:00pm for an exciting day at The Grounds & support two local charities.

Dauphin Island Discovery Day

The Dauphin Island Sea Lab welcomes everyone to campus on April 6 for Discovery Day. The event is free and open to the public. The lab-wide open house showcases the Sea Lab’s various research, education, and outreach activities.

Visitors can tour marine science laboratories where cutting-edge research is conducted on oceanography, marine biology, and coastal ecology. There will also be hands-on science lessons and a chance to get a closer look at marine animals of all sizes. Free admission to everyone under 18 and half-price to adults and seniors, thanks to the support of WPMI and FOX10 News. For more information about Discovery Day at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab visit disl.edu/events.

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” on March 8, 9, 15, 16 at 7:30 pm and March 10, 17 at 2:00 pm at the Chickasaw Civic Theatre. The Peanuts gang tackle the great questions of the universe while playing games, doing homework, enjoying (or being tormented by) friends, and generally enjoying life. This CCT favorite is full of charming songs. Please visit https://cctshows.com/season/charliebrown/ to purchase tickets.

UCP Pot of Gold Raffle

United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile is excited to announce the return of their $10,000 Pot of Gold Raffle. This St. Patrick’s Day-themed fundraiser will benefit UCP of Mobile’s programs for children and adults with disabilities throughout south Alabama. Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.ucpmobile.org/potofgoldraffle or via phone at 251-479-4900.

Raffle tickets are $100 each, with 500 buyers having a chance to win $10,000—That’s a 1-in-500 chance at winning the grand prize! The grand prize ticket will be drawn on Saturday, March 16, at Callaghan’s Irish Social Club in Mobile, during their annual St. Patrick’s Day Street Party, but ticket holders do not need to be present to win. There will also be four $500 early bird prize drawings leading up to the grand prize drawing, which will be streamed live on UCP of Mobile’s Facebook page at 7 p.m. on the following Thursdays: February 22, February 29, March 7, and March 14. To learn more about UCP of Mobile and the people we serve, visit https://www.ucpmobile.org .

19th Annual Bunny Hop

Join us on March 10, 2024, at 1:00 pm at Geri Moulton Children’s Park for the 19th Annual Bunny Hop. This familyfriendly Easter Egg Hunt will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile. Please visit https://rmhcmobile.org/ product/bunny-hop-2023/ for more information.

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Treating Scrapes and Cuts

Generally, children love to explore, take risks, and engage in physical play. Unfortunately, this eventually means scrapes and sometimes more severe lacerations or cuts. What to do when the inevitable happens?

Firstly, bleeding usually stops with pressure. Use a clean towel, and try not to change towels frequently, as this can interrupt the clotting process. Secondly, many cuts heal with time. Strictly speaking, intervention is not necessary for a cut to heal. However, intervention can help prevent complications and possible long-term scarring. Keep this in mind when deciding whether or not to contact your pediatrician for possible intervention.

or cuts exposing any bone or tendon may require more attention. Your pediatrician can decide on your child’s next best step, such as glue, staples, or stitches.

Medical glue is a very appealing option, especially for younger children. It is painless and quick. This is an option for cuts that appear to be coming back together and for areas of the body that do not have a lot of tension. The glue must adhere to the skin, so places like the scalp are not a good option. The main drawback of glue is that there is not much “tension strength,” so scar formation increases. Medical glue is a specially formulated medical adhesive. Do not use common household glues.

is relatively quick but provides much support for the cut to heal quickly.

Stitches are the most traditional form of intervention for a cut. They help with the prevention of scars since the edges of the cut are brought back together for the duration of healing. The drawback, especially for children, is that the procedure takes time. Most children will not be cooperative. They will need to be either held in place or, in extreme cases, may need to be sedated for the procedure.

Whatever unexpected injury your child might encounter, your child’s pediatrician is a great first step to help understand what interventions are available and appropriate.

A cut that is longer than a few centimeters, cuts through multiple layers of tissue,

Staples are generally used for areas of the body where scarring is less of a concern, such as the scalp beneath hair. The procedure

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.

Mrs. Melissa Worrell’s 4th-grade classroom has three goals each year. One is to help the students understand how much God loves them. The second is to help them know how much she loves them. The third is to increase everyone’s love of reading.

“I teach reading, language arts, spelling, and science. Of the four subjects, reading is my favorite subject to teach,” she shared. “I love to read to my students to model comprehension strategies, identify figurative language, discuss new vocabulary words, and go on adventures with my students through books.”

Mrs. Worrell worked in the healthcare field for 13 years before becoming a teacher. This is her first year teaching at Cottage Hill Christian Academy, but her fourth year overall.

“My own children inspired my change in career from healthcare to education. My healthcare career did not allow me the time I wanted or needed with my children. Although the pandemic brought many difficulties, the blessing was that it caused us to reevaluate our priorities. We took a leap of faith, and God opened a door in my children’s school,” Mrs. Worrell shared. “I love working at the school my children attend. The biggest advantages are time spent together, hugs throughout the day, and being there for them if something comes up.”

Melissa Worrell

Cottage Hill Christian Academy

Mrs. Worrell and her family are originally from Ohio and only recently relocated to the area to be near her husband’s family. While it is difficult to be away from her own family, who still resides in Ohio, the family has loved adapting to life in the South.

“The most exciting part of the transition has been learning and experiencing Southern culture. My students joke with me because whenever we have Red Beans and Conecuh on the lunch menu, I can never seem to pronounce it right,” she said.

One of Mrs. Worrell’s favorite teaching moments happens when she reads to her students daily in their reading nook. The nook is complete with colorful cushions and a couch, and the students bring their blankets from home.

“The absolute best part of my day is hearing the students’ reactions when I tell them to come back to school tomorrow so they can hear what happens next. Then they say, “Mrs. Worrell, please read to us more!” or “No! Why can’t we read more?” It makes my heart so happy to know they are thirsting for more,” Mrs. Worrell shared.

Melissa Worrell has been married to her husband Cody for 11 years this month. They have two children, William, in 5th grade, and Scarlett, in 3rd. Mrs. Worrell loves playing guitar and writing songs in her spare time.

National Signing Day on The Hill

On February 7, 2024, seven Cottage Hill Christian Academy student-athletes signed their letter of intent to continue their academic and athletic careers at the next level. This is an incredible achievement, especially when measured against the national average, which hovers around 5%. Cottage Hill defied that statistic by nearly doubling it. Cottage Hill Christian Academy is proud of these student-athletes. They’re not just leaving for the next level; they’re taking a piece of Cottage Hill with them.

Barton Academy’s Teacher of the Year

Barton Academy is proud to share their Teacher of the Year was also selected to represent the Mobile County Public School System at State! Mrs. Christy LeGros is an amazingly talented educator who always seeks to provide her young artists opportunities to shine. Barton’s artists are regularly winning art recognition in various contests. From decorating the halls at Barton, to beautifying our city, to representing our state at the White House, the Barton artists have been growing and sharing their talent is fantastic ways thanks to her tutelage. The school-wide Quarter 3 quote states, “If we want to make meaning, we need to make art. As long as we are creating, we are cultivating meaning.” (Dr. Brene Brown). Thank you, Mrs. LeGros, for continually pouring into Barton’s artists and helping them to create meaningful art! Congratulations again on this wonderful honor!

Picture 1 left to right: Assistant Principal – Ms. Eaton, Mrs. LeGros, and Principal, Dr. Amanda Jones

Picture 2 – She was surprised with the banner and recognition and some of her students stood with her for a photo.

Phillips Preparatory National History Day Team

Phillips Preparatory School would like to congratulate Mrs. Lewis and her National History Day Team! Following their participation in South Alabama’s Regional History Day hosted by MCPSS and Alabama Humanities Alliance today, they emerged victorious as REGIONAL WINNERS in numerous categories. Kaiya Rippey and Valerie Pugh won 1st place in group exhibit, Ava Wendt won 1st place in individual exhibit, Lilly Harvey won 3rd place in individual exhibit, Ava Millwood and Calla Tate won 1st place in group documentary, and Kenton Moss won 1st place in Individual documentary.

100th Day of School at St. Dominic

Catholic Kindergarten students at St. Dominic celebrated the 100th day of school by dressing as 100-year old people.

Cottage Hill Students Represent at Capstone Leadership Academy

Cottage Hill sophomores Taylor Villacampa, Tucker Winter, and Laurel Quave were selected by the west campus faculty to represent CHCA at the University of Alabama Capstone Leadership Academy that will be held next month. The Leadership Academy features dynamic speakers and group activities for students to develop leadership skills. We are proud of these students and how they represent Cottage Hill!

Living Word Christian Center Science

Presentations

LWCC Kingdom Academy students created Science presentations for their class using digital media. Researching their topic included higherorder thinking; giving their presentation helped the students practice their communication and articulation skills.

Baker High Student Interns for NYC New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

Ava Lena Jackson, Baker High School student, was invited to work as an intern for the New Year’s Eve ball drop in New York City. Jackson worked 12+ hour days to prepare for the event and had opportunities to meet a variety of people in the production and entertainment industry. It was such an incredible experience and opportunity for her, especially with her wanting to be a business major with a hospitality & tourism minor. The producers hope she will be able to participate again next year. She is a part of the Hospitality, Tourism and Event Planning Academy at Baker High School and is President of the Baker Chapter of FCCLA. (Family Career Community Leaders of America)

Clark-Shaw Participates in National History Day

Clark-Shaw participated in the South Alabama Regional History Day hosted by MCPSS and Alabama Humanities Alliance. Madelyn Shoots placed 2nd in Individual Exhibit; Ashton Dunklin placed 2nd in Individual Documentary; and Ryan Crawford Miles placed 3rd in Individual Documentary. Five students competed and all five will advance to state competition in March at Auburn University in Montgomery.

Cottage Hill Students Register to Vote

The Cottage Hill class of 2024 represented CHCA as they participated in a mock election at the University of South

St. Paul’s Sixth Grade

Class Serves at Food Banks

On Tuesday, January 23rd, the St. Paul’s 6th grade class dedicated their day to serving those in need across our community. Led by dedicated chaperones Dan Drum, Theresa Robbins, Stacey Burt, and Shannon Webb, our students embarked on a mission to make a difference at four impactful sites. At Feeding the Gulf Coast, they packed 234 food boxes for senior citizens and assembled 720 weekend food bags for children. Under the guidance of Austen Johnson and Ryne Baxter, another group worked at Prodisee Food Pantry, ensuring carts were filled and cars were loaded with essentials. Meanwhile, David Armstrong, Morgan Hanson, and Mackensie Turner exemplified generosity and kindness as they assisted in bagging food and loading vehicles at Central Presbyterian’s Love All Food Pantry, while Elizabeth Campbell and her daughter Grace teamed up at George Hall Elementary to pack 400 weekend food bags for students in need. The efforts of our sixth graders showcased their commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others across our Mobile community.

Council Traditional Running Club Shines

The Council Traditional Running Club students showcased their athleticism at the Mobile Marathon Fun Run held in downtown Mobile’s Mardi Gras Park. Led by the local Excelsior Band to the start line, the race saw enthusiastic participation from Council running club members, parents, and even former students. The event culminated with an impressive display of talent, as the Top 3 Finishers in the Fun Run race were:

1st Place: Brady Coffman, 2nd Grade, 2nd Place: Albert Pavelescu, 3rd Grade, 3rd Place: DeAnthony Edwards, 4th Grade The Council community is extremely proud of all the runners and parents who contributed to the success of this event, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship and dedication.

Mary B. Austin Elementary Student Highlight

Congratulations to the following Mary B. Austin Elementary students who will be representing MBA at the Regional Tech Fair in March at USA. The school is so proud of all their Innovators that competed in this inaugural event by putting their tech skills on display.

Animation: Addalyn & Emmalyn

Chappell/Mary Dieu

Audio: Sebastien

SlayDigital Game: Jacoby Glenn

Digital Photography: Addalyn Chappell/ Hamilton Stephens

Multimedia

Presentation:

Addalyn & Emmalyn Chappell/ Blakely Rose & Tommie Shutter

Multidimensional Design 3D Model: Kelsey Harvey/JT Jansen

Digital Art: Carter Fleming

Robotics w/Remote: Lilli Kelsoe & Nina Rodriguez/Emmalyn & Addalyn Chappell

Video Production: Addison Jones & Prudence Hicks/Sadie Nguyen & Anna Milford/Harper Kitsos & Ellie Bostwick

Corpus Christi Catholic “Krewe of Story Time”

The Corpus Christ Catholic first graders designed floats based on their favorite book after reading and writing a book report about it.

St. Paul’s Senior Awarded Good Citizen Award

Congratulations to St. Paul Episcopal student Bennett Brown for being recognized at the Mobile Area Daughters of the Revolution annual award ceremony. Bennett was awarded the Good Citizen Award for his qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in his home, at school, and in our community. He was also named the winner of the chapter’s essay contest and advanced to the district level! St. Paul is so proud of Bennett!

Living Word Christian Learn with Dissection

As a culminating activity on animal classification, LWCC Kingdom Academy 5th and 6th grade students dissected an earthworm, representing an invertebrate, and a perch fish, representing a vertebrate.

UMS-Wright Students at the Next Level

Please join us in congratulating the following student-athletes as they continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level!

Cross-Country/ Track: Charles PerryUniversity of Virginia

Baseball: Alex Sherman - Meridian Community College

Football: Joe Lott - Troy University

Football: Hayden Breal - Southern Miss

Volleyball: Addison Prine - Nicholls State University Once a Bulldog, Always a Bulldog!

Phillips Preparatory Honor Band

The Phillips Preparatory Band has done it again! Phillips Preparatory had 10 students make it to the District Honor band, and 11 students made the All-State Honor band. Congratulations to these hard-working students and their fabulous band director, Dr. Chase West.

Reese’s Senior Bowl Players Visit Patients at USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital

College football players in town for the 75th Annual Reese’s Senior Bowl said goodbye to virtual visits this week, and hello to in-person fist bumps, high fives and even a few hugs. For the first time since the pandemic, dozens of players descended on USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital to meet patients, sign autographs, and take photos.

Because of safety measures in place during the pandemic, the annual visits moved to a virtual format for three years. On Friday morning, though, players, mascots and cheerleaders gathered in the hospital’s courtyard before heading upstairs to meet patients, their families, and caregivers.

One lucky little boy had a group of future NFL players sing to him for his birthday. They broke out into song inside the hospital’s classroom when they found out about his special day.

Inside the hospital’s playroom, Jalyx Hunt, a linebacker from Houston Christian University, asked patients to sign a Senior Bowl T-shirt. “Thank you so much,” he said, kneeling next to a little girl in a wheelchair. “It means a lot to me.”

The Senior Bowl visits are organized as part of the hospital’s Mapp Child and Family Life Program, which is aimed, in part, at normalizing a child’s stay at Children’s & Women’s Hospital. Research shows that such techniques can lead to better health outcomes for patients.

“It’s such a delight to have the players and mascots take time to visit with our patients and staff,” said Deborah Browning, MSN, RN, CENP, CEO at Children’s & Women’s Hospital. “We have children and their families dealing with some extremely challenging situations, and they are not able to leave the hospital for football games and other activities. It’s heartwarming to see a child’s mood brighten when they meet special guests.”

The Mapp Child and Family Life Program supports families with hospitalized children by utilizing child life specialists, recreational therapists and full-time certified teachers who specialize in education, preparation, and support activities. The goal for these specialists is to minimize stress and help children and families better cope with their healthcare experience.

The Clark-Shaw Eagles Take Flight

Clark-Shaw Magnet School’s current archery team is made up of 14 girls and 14 boys and they have had a strong season so far. They have had six 1st place and five 2nd place finishes and are excited to see how they do at Regionals, State, and Nationals. Clark-Shaw is so proud of their team’s growth and progression this season and couldn’t have achieved all that they have without the support of the parents, faculty, administration, and Coach Jonathan Braswell. Way to go, Clark -Shaw Eagles!

St. Luke’s Center Stage Prepares for Spring Musical

St. Luke’s Center Stage learns choreography from Michael Seward for their upcoming Spring Musical, Matilda Jr. Seward is a Daphne native whose experience as an entertainer includes performances at the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular, Tokyo Disney Sea, and Norwegian Cruise Lines. He now runs Seward Studios, a theatrical production company that offers directing, vocal coaching, and choreography services.

St. Pius X Makes Valentine’s Day Cards

St. Pius X NJHS and SGA made Valentine’s cards for the residents of The Little Sisters of the Poor.

Corpus Christi Catholic Annual Optimist Club Speech Contest

The Corpus Christi Catholic School Annual Optimist Club Speech Contest was held recently. Corpus Christi is proud of all the students who participated. Everyone did an excellent job with their speeches about optimism! Congratulations to the winners:

1st Place: Thomas Aguirre

2nd Place: Daniel Grantham

3rd Place: Ellen Wentworth

participate in the District Speech Contest.

St. Dominic Museum

Field Trip

St. Dominic middle school students enjoyed a field trip to the Mobile History Museum.

St. Pius X Parade Band

St. Pius X Elementary Band members play during the St. Pius X Krewe de la Cardinal Parade.

Cultivate Studios Hosts 1st Annual Eagle Masquerade Ball

Cultivate Studios, an Acton Academy, hosted their 1st annual Eagle Masquerade Ball! Students got a visit from the Azalea Trail Maids, made king cakes, decorated masks, played Mardi Gras games, and danced the day away!

The Future is Bright with Barton Academy

Future City Competition was supposed to have been held in Auburn on January 20, 2024, but due to inclement weather was changed to a virtual format. Three teams (New Basel: Sophia Patterson, Starr Evans, and Lina Porter; Neopolis: Charlotte Smith, Gabby Arguello, and Alivia Moseby; Electrica: Beckett Buckridge, Violet Hurt and Marley Conner) competed with their models and creations of a city in the future (100 years) based on the theme of “Electricity.”

Special awards were given were received by New Basel for Outstanding Project Plan from the Project Management Institute Educational Foundation and Best Use of Quality Concepts from the American Society for Quality Concepts. Electrica received an award for Best Visualization of a Smart, Sustainable City from the American Society of Civil Engineers. Congratulations to these young female innovative thinkers!

Eichold-Mertz Magnet Holds Academic Parade

Eichold - Mertz Magnet School of Math Science and Technology held an Academic Parade to celebrate students’ achievement, with music from the Davidson High School band. Students were honored for honor roll, highest test scores, and perfect attendance.

Mobile County Public School System Teachers of the Year

Mobile County Public Schools recognized its top three teachers of 2024, naming them as the countywide Teachers of the Year and surprising them in their classrooms. They are:

Jessica Burnette of E.R. Dickson Elementary, the Mobile County Elementary School Teacher of the Year

Christy LeGros of Barton Academy for Advanced World Studies, the Mobile County Middle School Teacher of the Year

Mischa Armstrong of Baker High, the Mobile County High School Teacher of the Year

Each of Mobile County’s 90 schools selects a Teacher of the Year, who is then nominated for the countywide honor. A committee selected these three winners and will forward their applications on to be considered by the state for Alabama’s Teacher of the Year.

“I am beyond proud of our teachers who have been selected by the colleagues as Teacher of the Year,” said Mobile County Public Schools Superintendent Chresal D. Threadgill. “This selection is a true testimony of these individuals’ dedication to ensuring the success of their students. I commend each of them and I cannot wait to personally congratulate them on their accomplishment.”

MCPSS has a great track record in the Alabama Teacher of the Year competition. In the last six years, MCPSS has had an Alabama Teacher of the Year, two of Alabama’s Secondary Teachers of the Year, and three finalists for Alabama Teacher of the Year. And earlier this week, the Alabama Science Teachers Association announced that MCPSS has two of the state’s top four science teachers.

Jessica Burnette is a Title 1 facilitator and reading intervention specialist at E.R. Dickson Elementary. An educator for 14 years, she wears many hats at Dickson, serving as a parent and family engagement leader through Title I; taking a leading role in helping to adapt the Alabama Continuous Improvement Plan for the school; serving on Dickson’s Leadership Team; and teaching multiple grade levels. She is certified as a Leadership Educational Administrator and as a Collaborative Special Education Teacher. She has a Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from Tennessee State University. Ms. Burnette strives to inspire those around her to use their gifts and strengths to help others, and believes that education is the antidote to ignorance, the weapon against inequality, and the catalyst for social change. Christy LeGros, a 26-year veteran of the classroom, teaches art at Barton Academy for Advanced World Studies. LeGros found her calling when she took her first art class in high school and became inspired to become an arts teacher to share the excitement and confidence that comes with creativity in the classroom. Last year, she and her students were selected to be a part of the America Celebrates ornament program, in which they created ornaments to be displayed on the Alabama tree near the National Christmas Tree at the White House. Ms. LeGros also taught at Theodore High School for many years and has served on MCPSS’s Fine Arts Advisory Board. She has been named the Alabama Secondary Art Educator of the Year and the Theodore High School Teacher of the Year. Her numerous community honors include two Arty Awards for Arts Education from the Mobile Arts Council and the Nappie Award for Best Local Artist. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in arts education from the University of South Alabama. Ms. LeGros is passionate about the important role that teachers and counselors must play to help each student find their individual path to success. Mischa Armstrong teaches algebra and precalculus at Baker High School. During the past year, she has served as an A+ College Ready Individual Training and Incentive Program (ITIP) teacher, a program that plays a pivotal role in fostering success in Advanced Placement coursework for teachers and students at Baker. She has earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in secondary mathematics education from the University of South Alabama and will complete her Teacher Leader Educational Specialist certification from the University of West Alabama in June. Ms. Armstrong, now in her 16th year of teaching, wants to emphasize the importance of fostering diverse and inclusive classrooms where every student feels valued and represented. She also wants to promote programs and practices that ensure that each student has an equal opportunity to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

Sunny Side Theater Competes at Alabama Youth Theater Experience

Sunny Side Theater’s competition team performed at the Alabama Youth Theater Experience for the 11th year in a row on February 3rd. The team is made up of 32 students from 15 different schools. The team placed 2nd place overall with their performance of Peter Pan Jr. They also received Spirit of the Festival which is an award voted on by the other teams attending the festival. Miley Montgomery (Captain Hook) won the Best Female Actress for the whole festival. Zoe Montgomery (Peter Pan), and Savannah Bright (Wendy) were awarded “Best Duo”. Anna Louise Mcaleer (Smee) and Matthew Paragone (Pirate) received all-star awards for their individual performances. Sunny Side will be attending the National Youth Theater Experience in March!

Theodore High School Introduces B.O.S.S. Program

Theodore High School is excited to be helping freshmen prepare for the rigors of Dual Enrollment classes through their new B.O.S.S. program. The “Building Opportunities for Student Success” program will feature 9th grade classes taught by highly qualified teachers with a proven track record of academic success. Students will have a common learning environment (same schedule) all day unless they play a sport. Students are eligible to start taking dual enrollment classes in the 10th grade. Dual Enrollment courses offer a chance for families to save money. Some high school students earn enough dual enrollment credits to enter college as a sophomore. Proper preparation for Dual Enrollment ensures the best chance of success for students headed to college. For more information, see Theodore High School’s Facebook page.

St. Mary Catholic Welcomes Archbishop Rodi and Superintendent Barwick

St. Mary’s welcomed Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi and Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Chad Barwick for Mass and Classroom Blessings and Visits! St. Mary’s is thankful for the great time that these two Archdiocesan leaders spent with all of the students from Early C through 8th grade!

St. Luke’s Learns New Art Techniques

St. Luke’s students learn different art techniques, one of these being painting with marker - which involves using a marker to create a drawing and then using a paintbrush and water to blend the marker strokes. Students drew a chameleon utilizing this technique as part of their rainforest unit. By blending the marker strokes, the students could create a vibrant and realistic image of the chameleon on paper. This technique helps students develop their artistic skills and encourages them to experiment with different materials and techniques to create unique and exciting works of art.

Revelation Christian Academic Honors

Congratulations to these Revelation Christian School boys and girls for earning Principal and A/B Honor Roll for the 2nd quarter of the school year. Revelation Christian is eagle proud of you all!

McGill-Toolen Catholic Attends Drug Education Council Workshop

McGill-Toolen Catholic attended a Drug Education Council workshop for high schoolers. They heard from speakers and then worked to implement a prevention plan for our school. Speakers included a trauma surgeon who talked about prevention of gun violence, a neuroscience and psychology professor from South who brought real brains to touch, and spoke about what substances can to our brains. Students Sam Hecker and Morgan Carroll who are members of the Mobile Youth Drug Education Council were there to work the event.

St. Luke’s Biomedical Sciences Students Work on Assessment Skills

St. Luke’s Biomedical Sciences Interventions class worked on their assessment skills using our telehealth robot, “Luke.” The student playing the part of the patient was in the lab while the student playing the part of the nurse practitioner was down the hall controlling the robot from their laptop and recording their assessment. As part of their assignment, students first had to create a standardized patient profile, which included a chief complaint, medical and family history, a list of current medications and dosages, allergies, appropriate vital signs to support the symptoms, determining the lab work/tests that should be conducted along with a final diagnosis and plan of action.

McGill-Toolen Catholic High School at USA Annual Physics Contest

Congratulations to the McGill-Toolen Catholic High School Physics Team for their performances in the University of Alabama 45th Annual Physics Contest

Our Team Members William Blanchette, Damien Brack, Kasey Eccles and Brendan Russell earned 3rd place in the overall school and 3rd place in the private school category. Brendan Russell took 3rd and Damien Brack 4th in the individual competition.

Council’s Big Bang Archery Tournament

Congratulations to Jeremy Lucas and Xerianna Portella of Council Traditional School for their outstanding performance at Council’s Big Bang Archery Tournament held from December 14-16, 2023! Jeremy Lucas secured an impressive second place in the elementary boys’ category, while Xerianna Portella showcased her exceptional skills and claimed a well-deserved third place in the elementary girls’ category. Their dedication and talent have surely made their school proud! Keep aiming high and reaching for the bullseye!

Viking to Viking at Little Flower Catholic

Middle school students at Little Flower Catholic School pair up with elementary students in the Viking to Viking Program to share techniques and methods for better outcomes in both math and reading. When kindergarten students came across challenging math problems, the older students helped them find their way. The school’s Viking spirit can be found all day, every day on the campus, especially with the Viking to Viking Program.

Dauphin Island Sea Lab

Residential Marine Science Class Registration

High school students interested in marine science immerse themselves in the field during the Residential Marine Science Class at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. During the four-week class, students spend time in the field learning about salt marsh ecology, marine vertebrate zoology, invertebrate zoology, marine botany, deep-sea biology, plankton ecology, and more. Their lessons include collecting samples, analyzing the data and conducting their own research. The class is open to rising 9th through 12th graders, and scholarships are available. Students also have the opportunity to earn high school credit as the Alabama State Department of Education approves the course. Registration for the class is now open, and the deadline is April 1. Visit www.disl.edu/dhp for more information.

Phillips Preparatory Academy I.B. Learner Profile Highlight

Phillips Preparatory I.B. Learner profile highlight for the month was “RiskTaker.” Our standout student for this trait was 7th grade student, Hayes Miller. Our I.B. Teacher of the month is Mrs. O’Quinn.

Archbishop Rodi Visits Little Flower School

When Archbishop Thomas Rodi paid his annual visit to Little Flower Catholic School, he started his visit by celebrating Holy Mass with the student body and staff. Superintendent Chad Barwick joined the archbishop for classroom visits and conversations with students during the day. The students enjoyed the lighthearted question and answer periods

St. Pius X Parade Court

St. Pius X is excited to present the members of the court for St. Pius X

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

Eichold-Mertz Magnet School Celebrate Awesome Attendance

At Eichold-Mertz Magnet School, Mrs. Wells celebrated the two classes with perfect attendance Mardi Gras style. Mrs. Richardson’s fourth grade class and Mrs. Maye’s first grade class students came to school every day and on time for the month of January.

Living Word Christian Center Works with Education Specialist

LWCC Kingdom Academy Education Specialist, Dr. Byrd, met with parents and students individually to discuss the student’s progress monitoring data. During these meetings, students set personal goals for academic achievement. 1st grade student Elijah was very pleased and ready to grow, grow, grow!

Welcome K9 Estie to St. Mary’s!

St. Mary’s Middle School students welcomed Digital Forensics Officer, Laura Grantham and her K9 partner, K9 Estie from MCSO. K9 Estie sniffs for digital devices at investigations. Officer Grantham educated the students about the very important subject of the dangers of predators on social media. St. Mary’s is thankful for Officer Grantham and K9 Estie!

St. Mary’s Media Munch

St. Mary’s 7th grade ambassadors were spotted throughout Mobile on February 7 delivering Media Munch St. Valentine’s treats to members of Mobile’s local media, our city and Archdiocese officials, and supporters! This year marks St. Mary’s 28th annual Media Munch!

St. Dominic Student Wins Science Fair Award

St. Dominic 6th grade student Max Crowe won the “Top Banana” award for his science

Celebrating Success at W.H. Council

W.H. Council Traditional School has been recognized as one of Alabama’s top 25 schools for the 2022-23 school year. The commitment to excellence has been acknowledged, and W.H. Council is honored to have received a $2,000 award for placing in the top 25 of all schools in Alabama on the report card. This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of the students, teachers, and staff. The school is proud to continue providing quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for our students.

UMS-Wright Middle Drama Club Presents

Cinderella and the Substitute Fairy Godmother

At UMS-Wright we are so fortunate to have an all-encompassing Arts Department that spans across all disciplines. Students in EVERY grade level, K3-12, have the opportunity to shine on stage! Bravo to the Middle School Drama Club and Mr. Miller on another fantastic production. Cinderella and the Substitute Fairy Godmother featured a cast/crew comprised of a versatile and talented group of 5th-6th graders! Thank you to our sponsor, Bennett Orthodontics.

Cast/Crew: Catherine Spivey, Ryann Whitman, Colton Keenan, Elizabeth Howell, Wren Cooper, Emma Dong, Adele Taylor, Lily Beth McCaffrey, Sophia Johnson, Francie Ashurst, Aubrey Jones, Ava Rowell, Faulker Warren, Bradley Peterson, Grady Cook, Lee Luce, Lilli Margaret Smith, John John Smith, Roselyne Maertens, Kensi Persons, Millie Roberson, Olivia Ellis, Sawyer Smith, Mary Hartley Marks, Sabine Clark, Emily Lawler, Che’ Hope, Rana Dughaish, Clara McElderry, Addie Greenwald, Allison Holderer, Griffin Otto, Emmitt Quin, Kinley Winter, Mack Schultz, Autumn Holderer, Hadley Seay, and Lyla Sweeney.

An Author in the House at Heartwood Christian

happens Amazing

Miss Thia Scott has done it again! The author of the infamous book “Something” has made it to the number-one new release on Amazon’s e-book list for a day. T.G. Scott’s new book, “Someone” is from her series Resnovas, which made it to the Amazon scene in December. The 2nd book in the series is gaining traction and popularity very fast. Thia’s books are receiving five-star reviews. It’s most worth checking it out!

When people with extraordinary talent and passion are given the technology, the facilities, and the support, they achieve great things. The discoveries taking place today will help shape the future of treatments and lead to cures – benefitting not only our patients and families, but people across the country and around the world for years to come.

St. Ignatius Celebrates DADS!

St. Ignatius has been hosting Donuts for Dads for decades. We are blessed to have incredibly active, supportive and instrumental dads in our parent community. They show up for Friday Mass, coach CYO sport teams, serve on various committees, fundraise and are exemplary Catholic leaders for their children. We were thrilled to celebrate February 1st!

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

Bullseye Met Its Match

With Heartwood Christian

Bullseye is the only item on Natalie Kirk’s agenda these days. Natalie Kirk is ranked #1 in the state of Alabama and #2 in the Nation for High School Girls, with a maximum score of 296. She’s won 16 gold medals and four silvers so far this season. Recently, Natalie placed 1st in High School girls in most recent tournaments, including the Shark Slam, Fairhope Pirate, Battle in the Swamp, and Castlen. Natalie has shot a total of 10 perfect 50s. This is her 7th year shooting, and she’s nailing it! Can anyone say bullseye? Congratulations Natalie! Go Lions!

Want to learn more about our school? Schedule your private tour today!

Enrollment is happening now for the 2024-2025 school year.

Please visit our website at school.corpuschristiparish.com or call 251-342-5474

It’s time to decide whether or not to send your kids to sleepaway camp, but how do you know? How can you tell whether your kids are ready for their first extended stay away from home? You can’t know sim ply by how old they are. “There are some six-and seven-year-olds who march eagerly off to camp without a problem,” says Bob Ditter, a camp consultant who’s worked with sleepaway camps for more than four de cades, “while some eleven-year-olds cower with a fear of becoming homesick.”

Here are 7 important signs that experts say should inform your decision.

1) They express an interest in going to sleepaway camp. and most obvious indicator that your kids might be ready for this important milestone in their young lives is that they express an interest in it. “If they start to show interest in camp or ask for permission to go,” says Kaitlin Kirby of Tiny Beans parenting site, “it’s a strong sign that they’re ready to pack their bags and head off for a week (or more!) of fun.”

2) They’ve had one or more successful sleepovers with peers. It’s a good sign if your kids express an interest in going to sleepaway camp, but how have their past experiences sleeping away from home been? Have they had sleepovers with classmates or friends that went off without a hitch? You may want to hold off on sleepaway camp if the opposite has been the case. Jess Mi chaels of the American Camp Association advises parents to use past sleepovers as a diagnostic tool: “Has your child been successful when away from home? If your child felt panic stricken and needed to come home in the middle of the night, sleepaway camp might have to wait.”

3) They understand what sleepaway camp entails. Sleepaway camp involves much more than being away from your parents for a couple of days, a week, or longer. It also requires kids to be flexible and navigate new and unexpected situations, be able and willing to follow instructions from caregivers other

than parents and teachers, and to exhibit independence and personal initiative.

Consider this before making any final decisions. “Before you can feel confident that your child is ready for camp,” Ms. Kirby says, “you’ll want to be sure they know exactly what they’re getting into.”

4) They’re flexible and can navigate new and unexpected situations. Erica Patino of Understood.org, a major parenting site, suggests that parents ask themselves how flexible their kids are: “Is switching gears hard for your child? If it’s time to put away an art project and move on to a new activity, will your child get upset or resist?” Most sleepaway camps have jam-packed schedules, so it’s important that your kids can switch from one activity to the next without feeling overwhelmed and stressed. More generally, Ms. Kirby says, your kids should be able to navigate new and unexpected situations: “Whether it’s participating in a new music

or art class, an activity like karate or archery, or simply strutting into new surroundings, your child can likely handle camp if s(he) is confident in these scenarios.”

5) They follow instructions from other caregivers than parents and teachers. Your kids should also be able and willing to follow instructions from authority figures other than you and their regular classroom teachers since camp life is full of rules and routines. Ms. Patino says that parents should ask themselves questions such as these: “Can your child remember all the steps for tasks like clearing a table in the dining hall? Will your child listen and follow through if the counselor gives instructions?” If the answer is yes, your kids could be ready for sleepaway camp.

6) They exhibit independence and personal initiative. Sleepaway camp also requires kids to exhibit independence and personal initiative. They should be able to solve all kinds of problems, large and small, on their own, know when it’s better to ask counselors for help, and be able to make new friends among kids they’ve never met before. On a very practical level, they should be able to take responsibility for their personal hygiene and handle a daily routine. As Allie Simon, a camp consultant who’s developed programs for several sleepaway camps, puts it, “Make sure your child knows how to brush teeth, take a shower and pick out outfits.”

7) You’re ready to let them go!

It’s a great sign if your kids are bursting at the seams to go to their first sleepaway camp, but are you truly ready for it? As Ms. Kirby says, “Your child may be jumping for joy at the thought of spending a week or more with friends old and new, but ultimately, you as the parent have to be ready to let them go.”

MBP Best of Parenting WINNER www.riverviewcamp.com 800-882-0722

On Top of Lookout Mountain in Historic Mentone, Alabama

• Riding - English, Western, and Jumping • Swimming • Heated Pool • Ropes Course • Climbing Tower • Outdoor Nature Skills • Sports • Soccer • Basketball • Beach Volleyball • Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance • Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program • Campfires every night • Optional trips & more! REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! Choose from 1- and 2-week Sessions and Mother-Daughter Weekends!

JUNE 3 - 7 & JUNE 10 - 14

8:00 AM -3:00 PM

Grades: Rising 7th-9th DAY CAMP OPTION ONLY DUE TO MAIN CAMPUS RENOVATIONS

CHOOSE FROM ONE OF FOU R ENGAGING STEM TRACKS! !

1) Mini-Medical Schoo l

2) Robotics, Rocketry, & Propulsio n

3) Engineerin g

4) Technological Desig n

SCAN HE RE

TO REGISTER AN D LEARN MORE ABOUT THES E EXCITING COURSE OFF E RINGS!!

“I love being home, and my weekends consist of the three Rs: resting, relaxing, and rejuvenating,” shares Kim Wakefield of Mobile, AL. Kim has been teaching for the last 24 years and is currently a Pirate at Phillips Preparatory School. She wears many hats there, working as the computer science teacher, yearbook advisor, and broadcasting teacher, and she handles the school’s social media accounts.

“Teaching my students to write, edit, photograph, and design allows us to have the best yearbook possible,” said Kim. “Creating the yearbook is a labor of love. Making the book takes so much time and effort since we create it from scratch.”

Kim is passionate about crafting visuals, editing videos, and creating memorable content for school events.

“In my spare time, I enjoy reading thrillers! Audiobooks are my favorite because I can listen to them on my way to and from work. Other than teaching and reading, I am just a homebody.”

Kim and her husband Ray have been happily married for twenty years and have one son, Brycen (13). He is in 8th grade, plays soccer, runs track, serves as a

middle school ambassador, and excels in honors classes.

“He holds a special place in our hearts as our one and only child, and his journey into our lives was a blessing after six years of infertility,” Kim shared. “Being with my boys is where I find unparalleled joy and fulfillment.”

Crockpot

cooking is important to Kim, even for a family of three. She loves to grab recipes from the The Magic Slow Cooker page on Facebook, where this Olive Garden Chicken recipe resides.

“Crockpot meals and leftovers are important, especially with our son’s busy schedule,” Kim exclaimed. “I honestly don’t know how big families do it. Juggling kids, their hobbies, work, and life is hard. Crockpot recipes are great for busy families, and this feeds an army - or just the three of us with leftovers!”

Olive Garden Chicken in the Crockpot

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast (1.5-2 pounds works fine)

• 16 oz. Olive Garden Italian dressing (or any Italian dressing you like) Note- Olive Garden dressing is high in sodium and can be salty. Choose a lower sodium dressing if desired.

• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1/4 tsp. black pepper

• 8 oz. cream cheese

Add these items after cooking time is up:

• 16 oz. penne pasta cooked according to package directions and drain well

• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese

Instructions:

• Add chicken breasts to the slow cooker.

• Pour over one 16-ounce jar of Olive Gar den Italian dressing (or any Italian dressing you have on hand.)

• Shake over grated parmesan cheese and ground pepper. Add one block of cream cheese.

• Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or low for 5-6.

• Shred the chicken with two forks right in the slow cooker.

• Cook 16 ounces of pasta according to the package directions on the stove-top. I use penne pasta for this recipe.

• Add the drained pasta to the slow cooker along with the sauce and shredded chicken, stir.

• Sprinkle over more parmesan cheese if desired. I also garnished with a touch of oregano and black pepper.

Ways to alter it:

• Serve over rice and omit the pasta.

• Serve with steamed vegetables.

• You can leave out the cream cheese or add a cup of heavy cream at the end of cooking time is desired. Though the sauce will be thinner.

Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August.

Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.

Many parents want their kids to experience summer camps but the idea of spending several nights away from home is a little scary for both the parent and child. A great alternative, especially for younger kids, is to send them to day camp.

Day camp, as the name implies, typically consists of a series of consecutive days where the child is away during the daytime hours. Children leave in the morning to have the camp experience and come home in the afternoon or evening to have dinner with their families and sleep in their own beds. Day camp gives kids many of the same learning experiences as a typical sleepover camp.

Builds independence

Camp is a great place for kids to explore their own independence and day camp is no different. Kids are dropped off at camp in the morning where they are challenged with new activities that they may not get the opportunity to try at home. They will make friends, eat lunch, and follow directions without the help of their parents. Kids start to feel more self confident and independent as the week goes on.

Learn new skills

Day camps typically offer opportunities to learn and grow in areas that children may not be exposed to at school. Kids can pick camps that tailor to their interest including a variety of sports, music, dance, theater, science, art, exploring nature, and more. If your child is drawn to a particular activity or subject, chances are there is a camp that would interest them. Kids who are not particularly drawn to academics will thrive in day camps because they are rewarded for their talents and interests.

Make new friends

While you may sign your child up for a camp with a friend, they will meet many new people their age. Children gain confidence as they learn to talk to and work with people that they have never played with previously. The opportunity to make friends with children that share similar interests and a fun new experience helps kids feel more comfortable when they are in new situations.

Take a break from the screen

When children spend time at day camp, they get a much needed break from screen time. As video games, apps, TV, and tablets take more and more of our free time, getting the kids outside to play or having fun while learning new skills is a priceless benefit to parents. Who knows? When the kids come home from camp, they may realize they don’t need as much screen time as they thought they did.

Lifelong skills

Day camp helps kids learn skills they can use for a lifetime including problem solving and leadership skills, improved confidence, and an openness to new things. Depending on the camp, they may learn other skills that will stick with them. My kids learned how to start a fire and cook their own meal at local scouting camps. My daughter gained the confidence to get on stage in front of a room full of parents and peers at theater camp. My kids improved their skills at sport camps and they faced their fears while trying the camp obstacle course. These experiences will stay with your child throughout their life as they are faced with challenges and successes in the future.

As you are deciding if day camp is right for your family, consider what type of camp your child would be most interested in. Choose something that you know they will be successful at and consider inviting a friend to sign up with your child. Let your child help you choose the right camp and then let them know you think they will do great.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and frequent contributor.

MBP

Art Camps

3rd Floor Art Camp at Central Midtown 1260 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL 36604

Weekly art camp starts June 3. See website for more details and to sign up!

251-622-1365 www.smallcraft.studio

Coastal Makers, LLC

70 North Joachim (Suite F), Mobile, AL 36602

Send your kiddo on an art adventure this summer! Prepare to get messy, have fun, and create cool art! Designed for ages 6-up. Visit our website or Facebook page for camps in Mobile and Baldwin County.

251-455-2909 www.coastalmakers.com

Mobile Museum of Art - Summer Camps

Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive, Mobile, AL 36608

Weekly Summer Art Camp from 9AM-4PM (fullday or half-day options) for students ages 5-12 with the following schedule: June 10-14: Ages 5-7 and Ages 8-11, June 17,18, & 21: Pottery Camp Ages 5-11 (9:00-12:00), Ages 12+ (1:00-4:00), June 24 - 28: Ages 12+, July 8-12: Ages 5-7 and 8-11, July 15 - 19: Ages 5-7 and Ages 8-11, July 22 - 26: Ages 12+

251-208-5212 www.mobilemuseumofart.com/learn

Mobile Parks & Rec Community

Camps offering arts, crafts, sewing and more. https://mprd.recdesk.com/Community/Home

Round But Square Studios

3304 Old Shell Road Suite C, Mobile, AL 36608 Art Camps, classes, pop-in art events, and more. Visit our website/Facebook for more information. 251-591-3425 www.roundbutsquarestudios.com

Dance/Gymnastics/Cheer

Broadway South Dance ad on page 18

7906 Westside Park Drive, Mobile, AL 36695

Broadway South Dance provides quality dance instruction in the West Mobile area for ages 2-adult. Be sure to check us out on the web to find

out summer dance schedules and dance camps. Themes this year include Princess Summer Fun, Swifties Dance Jam, Barbie Dance Party, and Hip Hop Dance Jam. 251-639-0660 www.broadwaysouthdance.com

Mobile Ballet ad on page 23

4351 Downtowner Loop North, Mobile, AL 36609 Offering Dance Camps and Intensives. Our summer Intensive is taught by world renowned guest instructors as well as outstanding Mobile Ballet faculty. Summer Intensive - (June 3-21, 2024 - Ages 12 & up with one year of pointe training required) Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Jazz, Contemporary and more. Junior Intensive - (June 10-21, 2024 - Ages 10 and up, two years of ballet training required) challenges students to enhance skills and technique. Princess & Pirate Camp: (June 3-6 and July 22-25, Age 3-5) Ballet, Creative Movement, Jazz and more! #LetsDance Camp: (June 10-13 and July 22-25, Age 6-9) 251-342-2241 www.mobileballet.org

Sheffield School of the Dance

ad on page 33

4570 Hermitage Road, Mobile, AL 36619

Magic Of Dance (ages 3-5), June 18-20 - West Mobile Location [Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop]. The Intensive (ages 6-9, 10-12, 13+), July 15-19West Mobile Location [Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop & Acro].

Ballet Boot Camp (ages 6-9, 10+), July 23-25 - West Mobile Location [Ballet, Pointe, Floor Barre, Strength & Stretch] 251-219-7877 www.sheffielddance.com

Empire Gymnastics

246-B Jacintoport Blvd, Saraland, AL 36571 Visit our website for more information.

251-620-9780 www.empireathleticstraining.com

Gale’s Studio of Dance

Piccadilly Square / 6345 Airport Boulevard, Suite F, Mobile, AL 36608

Classes begin Tuesday, June 11th. Register online soon or on-site registration is Monday, June 3, 2pm - 6pm. Tip Toes & Tumbling (2 and up) Enchanted Princess (2-5 yrs), Pop Star (6 and up) Teens & Tweens (10 and up) Summer Intensive (13 and up) and more!

251-343-9544 www.galesstudioofdance.com

Mrs. Lisa’s Gym and Cheer

144 East I-65 Service Road N, Mobile, AL 36607

Cottage Hill Gymnastics Center 1711 Hillcrest Rd, Mobile, AL 36695 Gymnastics, Tumbling and Trampoline 251-367-6182 www.cityofmobile.org/parks

Mrs. Lisa’s offers Recreational tumbling classes, Competitive Cheer Teams for ages 3-18 , School Cheer Teams Tumbling, Private Lessons ,& Choreography.

251-471-9708 www.facebook.com/alabamajags

Ms. Daphne’s Cheernastics

102 Baker Road, Satsuma, AL 36572

For current info, visit our Facebook Page: Ms. Daphne’s CheerNastics; Summer Schedule TBA. 251-599-2205 www.msdaphnescheernastics.com

Nasser Gymnastics

3055 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36607

Energetic camp for Girls and Boys, ages 3-12. Campers enjoy a clean and safe environment with instructor-led gymnastics, pit & trampoline, games, contests, and other fun gymnastics-themed camp activities.

251-479-9311 www.nassergym.net

Planet Gymnastics

900 Schillinger Road South, Mobile, AL 36695

We offer Summer Camps for boys and girls ages 4 – 15 Mondays through to Fridays for the months of June and July. Great way to keep your child active this summer.

251-650-0699 www.planetgym.org

Robinson’s School of Dance

421 Highway 43 North, Saraland, AL 36571

Taking new students June 4, 4pm - 6pm. Summer Camp is held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays in June. Ages 2 and up 251-675-5915 www.Robinsonsschoolofdance.com

Day Camps

Dauphin Island Sea LabSummer Day Camps

ad on page 15

101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528

Oceans Alive - June 4 or July 1 (ages 5 - 8); BIO Blitz- June 13 or July 26 (ages 10-13); Ocean

Bytes- June 7 or July 26 (ages 9-11); Survivor: Dauphin Island - June 3, June 14, or July 2 (ages 1013). Registration/camp specifics available online. 251-861-2141 www.disl.edu/dhp/summer-camps

St. Dominic Catholic School

ad on page 25

4160 Burma Road, Mobile, AL 36693

Camp dates are Tuesday, May 28 through Wednesday, July 31st, 2024 . Hours of operation are 7:30AM-5:30PM. Camp Eagles K-6th and Camp Little Eagles PK2-PK4.

251-661-5226 www.stdominicmobile.org

West Mobile Baptist CDC Summer Camp

ad on page 37

7501 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608

West Mobile Baptist CDC Summer Camp is for children K4-5th grade.

251-639-6868 www.wemochurch.org

Westminster Presbyterian

Kids

Summer

Camp ad on page 31

2921 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36606

Ages 3 months to 5 years will run June 3rd to July the 19th (closed July 4th), Monday thru Friday from 9:00am - 1:00pm. (8:00am drop off is available). Fun activities including pizza days! 251-207-8184 www.facebook.com/westminster prespreschool

Azalea City Montessori Summer Camp

18 W Pierpoint Drive, Mobile, AL 36606

Monday-Friday 8:00am-3:30pm. Each themed

week children will engage in fun, age appropriate play and learning Ages: Potty trained 3-6.

251-380-6923 www.azaleacitymontessori.org

Boy Scouts of America Cub Scout Day Camp

Five Rivers, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort, AL 36527

The Mobile Area Council, Boy Scouts of America will be holding its annual Cub Scout Summer Day Camp. May 28 - May 31, 2024.

251-476-4600 www.bsamac.org

Boys and Girls Clubs of South Alabama Summer Enrichment Camp

Locations: Bernard Malkove Branch-35 Cody Road South, 251-343-4320, Kiwanis Branch-712 Rice Street, 251-478-7811, Semmes Branch-3810 Wulff Road East, 251-645-9027, Sonny Callahan Branch-6585 Carol Plantation Road, 251-6531188, Harmon Thomas Community Center, 1611 Belfast St., Mobile, (251) 654-8291, Foley Club, 1391 S. Cedar St., (251) 943-1483, Kids will enjoy exciting summer activities that include Summer Brain Gain, field trips, sports, swimming, arts and crafts, while also learning the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

251-432-1235 www.bgcsouthal.org

Bright Beginnings Learning Center at Providence LLC

6803 Airport Blvd, Mobile, AL 36608

Ages 5 - 12. Monday-Friday at 8:00am-6:00pm. Before care available.

251-776-5540 https://bright-beginnings-learningcenter-at-providence-llc.business.site

Camp 3Circle | Mobile Campus

150 S Sage Avenue, Mobile, AL 36606

June 10-14; Camp 3Circle is a fun-filled week for kids ages 4 years-4th grade. We incorporate wor-

ship, Bible study, and games to point children to God’s great love for them.

251-990-3112 www.3circlechurch.com/camp

Camp Chandler Tonsmeire

2701 Shelton Beach Road Ext, Mobile, AL 36618

Camp Chandler Tonsmeire is an outdoor education facility focused on character and leadership development while saving our children from nature-deficit disorder and summer learning loss. This is the place where kids can be kids and enjoy a day of adventure in a traditional day camp setting. Dates-June 3-7, June 10-14, June 17,1820,21, June 24-28, July 1-3, July 8-12, July 15-19. July 22-26.

251-423-2180 www.bgcsouthal.org/camp

Connect Camps

Luke 4:18 Fellowship, 2664 Sollie Road, Mobile, AL 36695

Connect Camps is a one-week, day camp for K-8th graders, filled with non-stop fun, engaging activities, daily faith-based lessons, and the chance to make lasting friendships. Your campers are sure to have an unbelievable week that they’ll never forget! Mark your calendars for July 1-5, 2024! Camp will be held Monday through Thursday 7:45 AM-5:00 PM and Friday 7:45 AM-12:00 PM. Register online.

www.connectcamps.com/mobile

Evangel Christian School Summer Day Camp

1277 Jubilee Drive, Saraland, AL 36571 Summer Day Camp. 6:30am-6:00pm daily M-F.

Ages 4-Entering 6th Grade. Weekly and Daily. Many on campus activities available including special guests and vendors. Camp begins: June 4 251-675-4619 www.folc.tv

Exceptional Foundation Gulf Coast 28788 North Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526

June 3- July 25, 2024. This program will be filled with friends, fun, field trips, and more! M-Th 8:00am – 5:30pm. From age 10-High School Seniors. EFGC is a nonprofit 501 (c) (3) program that provides social and recreational enrichment opportunities for the special needs communities of Baldwin and Mobile counties. There is limited availability.

251-625-8955 www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org/

Knight Life Christian Discipleship Camp and the City of Mobile Parks & Rec Mitternight Recreation Center, 5310 Colonial Oaks Drive, North, Mobile, AL 36618

Knight Life Christian Discipleship Camp for boys

8 - 12 is a unique, Christ-centered, male-focused, exciting, adventure day camp program designed to help each boy develop Godly character, integrity, honor, chivalry, and a servant-leader attitude based on a Biblical worldview. Activities include archery, culinary arts, field trips, and more!

Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm. $50 non-refundable registration required. $55 per week for 7 weeks. 251-591-8041 or 251-471-5696 www.jysla.org

Life Church Child Development Center Day Camp

8701 Zeigler Boulevard , Mobile, AL 36608

Monday - Friday, 6am-6pm for completed K3 thru completed 6th grade. Weekly field trips, daily arts and crafts, praise and worship, themed dress up days, water slides, and so much more! 251-633-2679 www.lifechurchcdc.com

Little Animal Explorers

Environmental Studies Center, 6101 Girby Rd, Mobile, AL 36693

Little Animal Explorers-Pre-K Program-see our social media at fb/EnvironmentalStudiesCenterMCPSS or call in May for more information. 251-221-5000 www.mcpsesc.com/

Mobile Botanical Gardens NatureBLAST

Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive, Mobile, AL 36608

Monday-Thursday, June 17-20, 2024; 8:30-3:00. Outdoor discovery and nature studies. Rising 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders. Nature Hikes, Scavenger Hunts, Arts and Crafts, Games and Activities. $150 MBG members, $170 non-members. Limit 15. 251-342-0555 www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org/

Mobile Parks and Recreation Summer Camp Mobile, AL Camps offer a variety of recreational and educational opportunities including themed games, crafts, special events, virtual field trips, and more. Ages 4-13. Time: 7:30-4:30 with extended care available. Pre-registration is required. https://mprd.recdesk.com/Community/Home

swimming, rock wall climbing, ping-pong, outdoor games, sports, and more. Seven one-week sessions beginning June 3. Ages: Rising 1st-8th graders. Dates/Hours/Rates online. 251-460-7268 southalabama.edu/summercamps

Winshape Camp

Redemption Church, 1251 Industrial Pkwy, Saraland, AL 36571

Have the summer of a lifetime close to home, July 24-28, 2023 for completed K - 5th grade. Monday-Thursday 8:00am-5:00pm and Friday 8:00am-12:00pm.

844-WS-CAMPS (972-2677)

https://camps.winshape.org/day-camps/ mobile-al/

North Mobile Christian School Summer Camp 1255 Industrial Parkway, Saraland, AL 36571 NCMS Summer Camp for K2 up to those entering the 6th grade starts May 28. Camp runs from 6:30am-6:00pm, Cost-$30 per day. Registration Fee is $75. Camp is open to the public. You can pick the days to attend.

251-679-3279 www.northmobilechristian.org

Semmes First Baptist CDCSummer Day Camp

4070 Wulff Road East, Semmes, AL 36575 Summer Camp program for ages K-5th grade. 251-649-2712 www.semmesfirstbaptistcdc.com

The Watermelon Patch

6417 Hillcrest Park Court, Mobile, AL 36695 Come and join us for the summer to keep your children moving and having fun. 10 weeks of camp with weekly themes. Ages 12 months-7 years old

251-633-3288 www.watermelonpatchkids.com

Trinity Kids Learning Center 309 Pinehill Drive, Mobile, AL 36606

Summer Day Camp will include fun and engaging activities for children ages 5 - 12. Monday through Friday, 7:30am - 5:00pm.

251-476-1844 www.tklclearning.com

University of South Alabama Summer Recreation Camp

University of South Alabama Student Recreation Center, 51 Jaguar Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36688 Camps focus on physical activities such as

YMCA North Mobile

Main Branch-92 Saraland Loop, 251-679-8877 / Youth Youth Services Site-401 Shelton Beach Rd, 251-586-8396, Saraland, AL 36571

At camp, kids enjoy fun summer activities that include sports, swimming, and arts and crafts, park days and field trips while also learning the importance of healthy choices and active lifestyles under the supervision of our fully-trained staff. Ages 5-14yrs.

bbrown@ysal.org www.southalabama.recliquecore. com/programs/117513/it-s-summer-time/?locations=-1

Drama/Theater Camps

Azalea City Center for the Arts & Sunny Side Theater

Summer Drama Camps

ad on page 3

Azalea City Center for the Arts, 63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606

Original Drama Camp - Put on full-length shows complete with sets, costumes, and fun! Activities include drama games, outdoor water games, set painting, and more!

Drama Camp Jr - Our youngest performers learn a script in one week. Camps focus on basics of acting skills by exploring costumes and characters! Musical Theater Intensive: Join a guest director as she takes campers through the process of producing an ENTIRE musical in one week complete with sets, costumes, and more!

Rising Stars camp directed by Eric Browne for high schoolers only! Produce a hilarious comedy over the course of two weeks. Glee camp is for singers! Join us to be part of a concert full of Disney, Broadway, and pop songs!

251-510-1808 www.sunnysidedrama.com

Education & Miscellaneous

Alabama School of Math and Science-STEM Leadership Academy Summer Camp

ad on page 35

1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604

Dates: June 3-7, and June 10-14, 2024, for rising 7th-9th graders. Cost: $275 (extra $100 for Mini Medical). Day camp option only (8:00 am – 3:00 pm) due to residence halls renovations. Camp Registration. Registration Deadline: May 15, 2024. 251-441-2100 www.asms.net

Bellingrath Gardens

Summer

STEM Camp

ad on page 22

Bellingrath Gardens, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore, AL 36582

Summer Camps provide children with daily handson investigations and garden explorations that will spark their imagination in STEM and nature. Camps are designed for students entering Kindergarten through grade 6 in Fall 2024. All weekly camps are held Monday-Friday from 9 am – 4 pm. June 3– July 26.

251-459-8987 www.bellingrath.org/youth-camps

BlueBird Big Chef’s Camp

ad on page 19

6157 Airport Blvd, Ste 205, Mobile, AL 36608

Get your picky eater to try new things at Big Chefs Camp! Kids will “cook” with a feeding therapist and try new foods together! June 10-14 (Monday-Friday) from 12:15 to 1:45pm. All abilities welcome. Ages 10 to 13.

251-287-0378 www.bluebirdtherapy.com

BlueBird Handwriting Heroes Camp

ad on page 19

6157 Airport Blvd, Suite 205, Mobile, AL 36608

Could your child’s handwriting use some improvement? Using fun and play, this camp helps develop the skills needed to improve handwriting and social skills! June 3-7 (Monday-Friday) from 8:45-10:15am. All abilities welcome. Ages 4 to 8. 251-287-0378 www.bluebirdtherapy.com

BlueBird Little Chef’s Camp

ad on page 19

6157 Airport Blvd, Suite 205, Mobile, AL 36608

Get your picky eater to try new things at Little Chefs Camp! Kids will “cook” with a feeding therapist and try new foods together! June 10-14 (Monday-Friday) from 10:15 to 11:45am. All abilities welcome. Ages 5 to 9. 251-287-0378 www.bluebirdtherapy.com

BlueBird

Pirate Speech Camp

ad on page 19

6157 Airport Blvd, Ste 205, Mobile, AL 36608 Arrr mateys! Get ready for fun! This camp uses

play to help children improve word articulation. June 3-7 (Monday-Friday) from 10:45-11:45am. All abilities welcome. Ages 5 to 10.

251-287-0378 www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Dauphin Island Sea Lab ad on page 7

101 Bienville Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36528

See listing under Overnight Camps for details. 251-861-2141 (ext. 7515)

www.disl.edu/dhp/summer-camps

Huntington Learning Center ad on page 11

2370-D Hillcrest Road, Mobile, AL 36695

A Huntington summer reading and/or math program can help your student gain new skills and avoid the summer slide. It’s also a great opportunity for struggling students and students with learning disabilities to get caught up. We offer reading, phonics and math programs for K-12 students and ACT Prep for high school students. Enroll today!

251-525-9239 www.huntingtonhelps.com

Nicholas D. West Tech, LLC

ad on page 25

2103 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604

Join our tech discoveries camp led by software engineer and tech-company owner Nick West. Students explore coding, graphic design, cyber security, AI, web design, and game development. Available for grades 3–12. Sign up at techcamp. nicholasdwest.com. Mobile camps for summer camps interested in a Tech Day. For classroom integration and resources, visit techforeveryone.app. 251-644-0533 https://techcamp.nicholasdwest.com

Revelation Christian Academy Summer Enrichment Program

ad on page 19

1711 Taylor Lane, Mobile, AL 36605

Revelation Summer Enrichment Program will focus on the subject areas of Reading and Math in a fun and educational way for grades Kindergarten5th grade.

251-473-2333 www.revelationchristian.org

St. Luke’s Episcopal School Camp Invention

ad on page 17

3975 Japonica Lane , Mobile, AL 36693

Camp Invention is an exciting summer enrichment program that allows children to bring their biggest ideas to life while developing essential 21st-century skills. June 3-6 8:00am-4:00pm 251-666-2991 www.slesmobile.org

St. Luke’s Episcopal School Camp Wildcat

ad on page 17

3975 Japonica Lane , Mobile, AL 36693

St. Luke’s is having a Summer Day Camp, academic and specialty camps. St. Luke’s Summer Day Camp: Camp Wildcat registration is now open for students in rising K3-rising 6th grade enrolled at St. Luke’s for the 2024-2025 school year. All others will be waitlisted pending availability. Camp starts May 28th and ends July 26th (7:30 a.m.5:30 p.m.) The camp is $165 a week and is open to the public. Enjoy weekly field trips and funthemed weeks. Register now to reserve your spot! Call 251-666-2991 or visit slesmobile.org. 251-666-2991 www.slesmobile.org

STEAMCamp for Kids

ad on page 5

Locations: Cottage Hill Christian Academy, Alabama School of Math & Science, 16 hours of screen-free, hands-on fun through daily STEM Challenges, camp relays, team building activities, STEAM projects, exploratory centers and outside time with new friends! Ages 5-12 for STEAMCamp

and 8-13 for Robotics VEX IQ Camp. Visit our website for locations and dates.

251-518-8903 www.steamcampforkids.com

USA Literary CenterTutoring and Summer Camp

ad on page 13

Mobile, AL 36608

Engage in reading and writing through sports and games with a SUMMER OLYMPIC GAMES theme. Rising 2nd - 6th grade Session 1: Monday, June 3- Friday, June 14 Session 2: Monday, July 8- Friday, July 19. 8:30am to 4:00pm. One week$225 | Two weeks - $300. K through 12th Reading and Writing Support - June 10- 27 and July 8-25. Monday - Thursday. 8:30am - 2:30pm. Assessment $75. $40/hour session.

251-380-2891

www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ ceps/literacy-center/

USS ALABAMA

Anchor Academy

ad on page 41

2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile, AL 36602

While at Anchor Academy, students will participate in art, STEM, and outdoor activities. Students will also explore the USS Alabama and USS Drum through fun and engaging lessons. Dates: June 3-7, June 10-14, July 8-12, and July 15-19. Open to students having just completed kindergartenfifth grade.

251-433-2703 www.ussalabama.com

Auburn University Youth Camps

Auburn, AL 36849

Auburn Youth Programs is an extension of University Outreach that sponsors and executes summer programs designed to educate and inspire youth in a variety of academic, athletic, and extracurricular endeavors.

334-844-4750 https://www.auburn.edu/outreach/ opce/auburnyouthprograms/index.htm

Aviation Challenge Camp

One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805 More details under Overnight Camps. 800-637-7223 www.spacecamp.com

Bloom Play Studio

2561 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36607

BLOOM Play Studio provides purposeful play through sensory and messy play, cooking classes, STEM activities, and much more! Find us on Facebook and visit our website for information.

251.298.6389 www.bloomplaystudio.com

Bright Academy Summer Reading Camp

Bright Academy , 3590 Pleasant Valley Road, Mobile, AL 36609

Open to rising 1st and 2nd Graders - Intensive Multi-sensory reading instruction - phonics, vocabulary, fluency, games and so much more. Learn that Reading in FUN!

251-525-9105 www.brightdyslexics.com

Bright Academy Summer STEAM Camp

Bright Academy , 3590 Pleasant Valley Road, Mobile, AL 36609

Open to rising 1st-6th Graders. FUN Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics Activities. Exciting Multi-sensory Instruction 251-525-9105 www.brightdyslexics.com

Exploreum Science Center

65 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602

Experience the new and improved Exploreum Academy in Mobile! Academy programs at the Exploreum Science Center are a great way to keep budding young minds engaged all summer long. Each academy will include activities from various STEM topics, as well as access to our galleries and Digital Dome theater. 251-208-6892 www.exploreum.com/education/ exploreum-academy/

Farm Adventure Summer Day Camp

Linda’s Learning Farm and Play Park, 2380 Havens Road, Semmes, AL 36575

Children will experience what farm life is like. There will be barn activities, garden fun, swimming, playtime and daily horse interaction. Ages 5-12. June 10-14

251-649-1802 www.facebook.com/learningfarmandplaypark

Flight Works Alabama

2000 Aerospace Drive, Mobile, AL 36615

Skills-based camps will weave science, technology, engineering, and math (STEAM) into various activities uniting education and FUN! 251-512-2320 www.flightworksalabama.com

Mobile Parks and Rec Community Activities

Mobile, AL Educational Camps and Classes. Tutoring, ACT Classes, Computer Classes and much more.

https://mprd.recdesk.com/Community/Home

National Flight Academy

1 Fetterman Way, Pensacola, FL 32508

An 6 day overnight camp for rising 7-12th graders that inspires interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). 877-552-3632 info@nationalflightacademy.com www.nationalflightacademy.com

St. Paul’s Episcopal School –Summer Saints

161 Dogwood Lane, Mobile, AL 36608

We will offer summer school and enrichment classes, several athletic camps, and music camps. More classes and events will be added throughout the spring; please visit our website for updates and registration forms!

251-342-6700 www.stpaulsmobile.net

Horseback Riding

Riverview Camp for Girls ad on page 34

757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984

2024 Camps run from June 9-August 2. An all-girls overnight camp with short and long-term sessions for girls ages 6-16. Horseback riding, swimming, nature trails, arts and crafts, and much more! Also offering weekend retreats for mother-daughter adventures. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

800-882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com

Mimi C. Peters Riding School at Silver Lining Farm – Summer Riding Camp

10727 El Nina Drive, Mobile, AL 36608

Day and Overnight Camps offered. Ages 5-16. Silver Lining Farm has one of the best summer camp programs in the country.

251-634-1229 www.facebook.com/silverliningfarm

Sandstone Equestrian Center

9450-A Jeff Hamilton Road, Mobile, AL 36695 Summer Camps - visit our website for more information.

251-508-2759 www.sandstoneequestriancenter.com

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp for Girls

606 Valley View Ranch Rd, Cloudland, GA 30731

One, two or three-week sessions June 9 – July 26, 2024. Overnight camps for girls, ages 8-17 years. English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails. Beginner and Advanced riders. CHA instructors.

706-862-2231 www.valleyviewranch.com

Music Camps

BlueBird Music & Movement Camp

ad on page 19

6157 Airport Blvd, Suite 205, Mobile, AL 36608

Get your little one moving and interacting with others! Children in this camp play instruments, sing songs, and play games to target coordination, balance, following directions and socialization skills. June 10-14 (Monday-Friday) from 8:45-9:45am. All abilities welcome. Ages 3 to 4.

251-287-0378 www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Full Scale School of Music ad on page

3

Azalea City Center for the Arts, 63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606

Summer music camps for ages 5-18! Come and join us at Full Scale for a great time of music making, theory, rhythm, harmony, and rock and roll! Students are welcome to join us any week this summer for Rock Band, Rock Band Jr, Hands on Instruments, and more! 251-454-6591 www.fullscaleschool.com

Marcus Johnson Summer Jazz Camp

ad on page 15

History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street, Mobile, AL 36602

July 15-July 26, 2024-A blend of music education, cultural enrichment and team building. Aspiring musicians are taught the fundamentals of jazz by seasoned local professionals under the direction of Mobile’s music icon, Hosea London. Celebrity

guest artists in residence will be featured as instructors. $100.00/student. Scholarships available upon request. Students must have their own instrument and possess the ability to play music scales. 251-478-4027 www.gcehjazzfest.wordpress.com/ jazz-camp

Mobile Symphony Summer Strings

257 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36602

Learn new music and skills, discover the secrets of your instrument, and have fun playing in a string ensemble! Music Theory is Fun and Beginner Strings also available. Tuesdays and Thursdays June 4,6,11,18 and July 9,11,16,18 251-432-2010 mobilesymphony.org/summer-strings

Springhill Baptist Summer Music Camp

2 South McGregor Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608

Music day camp for ages completed PreK4-6th grade. Group singing, performing, instruments and music learning activities. Dates: July 15-19, 2024 251-342-5320 www.shbc.cc/smash

St. Paul’s Episcopal School –Summer Fun and Learning

161 Dogwood Lane, Mobile, AL 36608

See listing under Educational Camps for details. 251-342-6700 www.stpaulsmobile.net

Overnight Camps

Alabama School of Math and Science-STEM Leadership Academy Summer Camp

ad on page 35

1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604

Dates: June 3-7, and June 10-14, 2024, for rising

7th-9th graders. Cost: $275 (extra $100 for Mini Medical). Day camp option only (8:00 am – 3:00 pm) due to residence halls renovations. Camp Registration. Registration Deadline: May 15, 2024. 251-441-2100 www.asms.net

Dauphin Island Sea LabSummer Overnight Camps

ad on page 15

101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528

Barrier Island Explorer: Rising 5th-6th grades

June 16-19 or July 21-24; Marine DeTECHtives: Rising 7th-8th grades June 9-12; Gulf Island Journey: Rising 7th-9th grades June 2-7, June 1621, or July 7-12; Coastal Fisheries Camp: Rising 9th-12th grades May 26-3; Bay Voyager: Rising 9th-12th grades June 9-14 or July 14-19. Registration/camp specifics are available online. 251-861-2141 DHPSummer@disl.edu www.disl.edu/dhp/summer-camps

Dauphin Island Sea Lab

Residential Marine Science Class

ad on page 15

101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528

June 23 - July 19. The Residential Marine Science Class is a 4-week academic class that introduces high school students to the field of marine science. Students live on the DISL campus and gain a better understanding and appreciation of the various disciplines in marine biology and oceanography. 251-861-2141 www.disl.edu/dhp/summer-camps

Riverview Camp for Girls

ad on page 34

757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984

2024 Camps run from June 9-August 2. An all-girls overnight camp with short and long-term sessions for girls ages 6-16. Horseback riding, swimming, nature trails, arts and crafts, and much more! Also offering weekend retreats for motherdaughter adventures. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

800-882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com

Aviation Challenge Camp

One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805

We offer space, aviation and robotics camps to children between the ages of 9 to 18. Visit our website for session options, dates and registration. 800-637-7223 www.spacecamp.com/aviation

Camp ASCCA

5278 Camp Ascca Dr, Jacksons Gap, AL 36861

Camp ASCCA offers campers a wide variety of traditional recreational and educational activities with a unique design for accessibility. Summer sessions begin June 16, 2024.

256-825-9226 www.campascca.org

Camp Beckwith

10400 Beckwith Lane, Fairhope, AL 36532

Join us for the “Best Week Ever at Beckwith, packed with sailing, swimming, arts & crafts, zip-lining, and so much more! Visit our website for information about dates and rates.

251-928-7844 www.beckwithal.com

Camp Cosby

2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road, Alpine, AL 35014

YMCA Camp Cosby is a week long sleepaway camp experience for boys and girls ages 6 to 16 with a first rate staff, activity variety, beautiful landscape and amazing views.

256-268-2007 www.campcosby.org

Camp Mac for Boys and Girls

Located in the Talladega National Forest - Cheaha Mountain, 2671 Cheaha Road, Munford, AL 36268

A traditional summer camp nestled in the Talladega National Forest where kids learn stuff, do things and have fun!

256-362-7449 www.campmac.com

Camp Marannook

10425 Veterans Memorial Parkway, La Fayette, AL 36862

We have a whole summer packed full of awesome activities for you to enjoy. Several sessions to choose from.

334-864-7504 www.marannook.org

Camp Marymount

1318 Fairview Boulevard, Fairview, TN 37062

Camp Marymount offers a two-week and threeweek session for girls and a one-week and twoweek session for boys. Rising first graders thru rising 11th graders are eligible to be campers. 615-799-0410 www.campmarymount.com

Camp Nakanawa

1084 Camp Nakanawa R, Crossville, TN 38571 Since 1920 Camp Nakanawa has been helping young ladies gain confidence and reach their full potential in a positive and fun-filled environment. 931-277-3711 www.campnakanawa.org

Camp Seale Harris

Various locations, Camp Seale Harris is for kids & teens with diabetes and their family members. Camps & programs are available in several cities. 205-402-0415 www.campsealeharris.org

Camp Smile

Mobile, AL 36607

A residential camp for individuals with disabilities 5-50 years old. Space is very limited. Please apply as soon as possible 251-479-4900 www.campsmilemobile.org

Camp Stanislaus

304 South beach Blvd, Bay St. Louis, MS 39520 Day and resident camp for boys and girls ages 8-15. Camp runs weekly from June 16-July 13, Father and Son: June 7-83, Water Sports: July 15 - 19, Marine Biology: June 10 - 14 228-467-9057 www.campstanislaus.com

Camp Walkabout

171 Baylor School Road, Chattanooga, TN 37405

Discover everything you never knew you could do. From hiking and paddling to caving and climbing, The Walkabout Experience brings a new adventure every day. Ages 8-16.

423-757-2515 www.baylorschool.org/summer/ camp-walkabout

Camp Whispering Pines

7740 Union Street, Citronelle, AL 36522 Veritas Student Camp July 26-30 (6th-12th); Momentum Kids Camp-June 24-28 (6th - 12th grade), July 15-18, 2024 (1st - 6th grade). 251-866-7868 www.campwhisperingpines.com

Camp Widjiwagan

3088 Smith Springs Road, Antioch, TN 37013 Overnight camps run from May 27 - August 3, 2024. Visit our website to see a full schedule of camps and age groups.

615-360-2267 www.campwidji.org

Camp Winnataska

260 Winnataska Drive, Pell City, AL 35218 2024 camps run from May 29 - July 27. Offering a variety of camp sessions for boys and girls ages 6-15 years old. Full week sessions and minicamps.

205-640-6741 www.winnataska.org

Camp Woodmont

381 Moonlight Drive, Cloudland, GA 30731

ACA accredited camp-loads of activities: archery, climbing, horseback riding, canoeing, crafts, games and more! 1 & 2 week sessions for boys & girls 6 to 15. Season: May 26-July 26.

423-472-6070 www.campwoodmont.com

Cub Scout Resident Camp

Camp Maubila, 2332 Camp Maubila Rd, Grove Hill, AL 36451

Cub Scout Resident Camp will be held June 2024, 2024. Maubila Summer Express Camp will be held May 30 – Jun 2, 2024

www.bsamac.org/camp-maubila

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama

3483 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608

In the summer, we offer the opportunity to attend resident or sail away camp for every girl, whether they are a Girl Scout or not.

800-239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Lake Forest Ranch

5326 Lake Forest Road, Macon, AL 39341

Camps run from June 1-July 27, 2024. Visit our website for a complete schedule of camp schedules. 662-726-5052 www.lakeforestranch.com

Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys

277 County Road 632, Mentone, AL 35984

Residential camp for Boys since 1928. Several session options available. Dates, times and additional camp information available online. 504-861-1534 www.lookoutmountaincamp.com

Mimi C. Peters Riding School at Silver Lining Farm – Summer Riding Camp

10727 El Nina Drive, Mobile, AL 36608

Day and Overnight Camps offered. Ages 5-16. Silver Lining Farm has one of the best summer camp programs in the country.

251-634-1229 www.facebook.com/silverliningfarm/

Rapahope

Mobile, AL 36604

Rapahope has been bringing joy to children diagnosed with cancer and their families since 1985. We are a non-profit organization that offers free, year-round programming, including summer camp, as well as weekend and day-long opportunities for families and siblings.

251-476-9880 www.rapahope.org

Twin Lakes Camp

155 Milner Road, Florence, MS 39073

Sessions: June 3-8, June 10-15, June 17-21 (Day Camp), June 24-29, July 1 -6, July 8-13, July 15-20, 2024. Twin Lakes focuses on safety and fun while being intentionally grounded in Biblical teaching.

601-845-6858 www.twinlakescamp.org

YMCA Camp Chandler

1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092

Since 1928 YMCA Camp Chandler has provided youth with the opportunity to build meaningful relationships, develop new skills, and create memories that last a lifetime. Ages:5-15 years old.

334-229-0035 www.campchandler.org

Sports Camps

Inner Strength Taekwondo

ad on page 33

9120 Airport Boulevard, Suite H, Mobile, AL 36608

Summer Camp begins May 28 and runs through August 2. Ages 4 and up will learn important life lessons about respect, confidence, and perseverance. Our Kids Taekwondo program is designed

to set each student up for success and to give them the edge in life that only the martial arts can provide.

251-776-1978 www.InnerStrengthMobile.com

Auburn Swim Camp

664 Biggio Drive, Auburn, AL 36849

Camp focuses on technical instruction, skill development, training and a fun learning environment. Dates/Information on website. www.auburnswimcamps.com/

Azalea City Track & Field Camps

University of South Alabama’s Jaguar Track Facility, 1209 Mitchell Center, Mobile, AL 36608

Azalea City Summer Track & Field Camp - May 28-29, June 11- 12, 18-19, 2024. Time: 5:30pm7:15pm. Pole Vault, High Jump, Hurdles, Shot Put, Javelin, Hammer, Discus, Long Jump, Triple Jump. All campers will have the option of which events they want to train.

251-460-7656 www.jagfieldcamp.com

Jags Soccer Camps - Univ of South AL 5950 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36608

Soccer camps and clinics are ran by The University of South Alabama Jaguars Soccer coaches and staff.

www.jagsoccercamps.com

JO Volleyball Camps at South Alabama University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688 2024 Summer Volleyball camps-camps are held in Jaguar Gymnasium, Striplin Gym, and South Alabama Recreation Center on the University of South Alabama campus. We offer team camps, elite and all skills camps, and individual skills camps. Visit our website for more information.

616-644-5751 jovolleyballcamps.totalcamps.com/

McGill Toolen Summer Sports Camps

1501 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36604

McGill-Toolen Catholic will be offering our popular summer sports camps including baseball, track & field, football, boys basketball, co-ed soccer, volleyball, girls basketball, boys and girls tennis and cheerleading. Please visit website for registration. 251-445-2900 www.mcgill-toolen.org

Michael Brisbane Golf Instruction

1000 Gaillard Road, Mobile, AL 36608 Golf lessons and clinics.

251-490-3812 www.michaelbrisbanegolf.com

Mobile Parks & Rec. Community Activities

Many sports camps offered in various locations. 251-208-1631 mprd.recdesk.com/Community/Home

Mobile Tennis Center

Offering summer clinics. Please visit our website for more information or to sign up. 251-208-5181 www.mobiletenniscenter.net

St. Paul’s Episcopal School –Summer Fun and Learning

161 Dogwood Lane, Mobile, AL 36608

See listing under Educational Camps for details. 251-342-6700 www.stpaulsmobile.net

UMS-Wright

65 Mobile Street, Mobile, AL 36607

Offering athletic, academic, day, and specialty camps. Registration for UMS-Wright families opens mid-March. Registration opens for families outside of UMS-Wright May 1st.

251-479-6551 ums-wright.org/summerprograms

University of Mobile RAMS Soccer Camps

5735 College Parkway, Mobile, AL 36613 Rams Soccer Academy Camps offer partial, full-

day and residential camp options. Co-Ed Camps (ages 8-15): June 4-7, June 18-21, July 16-19.

Girls and Boys College Prep Camp (High School

Age): June 30 - July 2

251-442-2396 www.ramssoccercamps.com

University of South Alabama Mark Calvi Baseball Camps

University of South Alabama -Stanky Field, Mobile, AL 36688

This camp is designed to help players take their game to the next level. Dates: June 3-7, June 1721, July 15-19, July 29-August 2; Ages: 7-13 205-249-2031 www.jagbaseballcamps.com/markcalvi-baseball-camp.cfm

Swimming & Water Fun

City of Mobile Swim Association

Mobile, AL The City of Mobile Swim Association offers lessons, training and practice groups for swimmers of all ages and ability levels. 205-802-9585 www.swimcmsa.com

Mobile Bay Sailing School

4295 Marina Drive North, Mobile, AL 36605

Week-long sailing camp summer sessions. Two different sessions: regular class includes day-long sessions (9am-5pm, ages 8-18), second type is a special opti class for beginner/young sailors (ages 8-10 half-days 9am-2pm, or 1pm-5pm).

251-209-1800 www.mobilebaysailingschool.com/

West Mobile Baby Fish

Mobile, AL Teaching children aged 6 months – 6 years old ISR Self-Rescue techniques designed to help them survive should they reach the water. www.westmobilebabyfish.com MBP

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

Madame Web

Bob Marley: One Love

Argylle

Theaters Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13 C- C A C B

Following a near-death experience, Cassie starts having premonitions of future events. When she foresees a man trying to murder three teens on a train, Cassie grabs the girls and runs. Now she must master her new skill in order to save them. This could have been a moderately interesting film, but it is plagued by flat acting and one of the most boring villains ever featured in a superhero flick. Negative content is comparable to other Marvel movies with plenty of highly choreographed violence Photo ©Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Theaters Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13 C- D D B- D

After the murder of her mother, Lisa leans into her goth phase, spending her time in the cemetery daydreaming about a handsome man’s gravestone. When a freak event reanimates him, Lisa is determined to give him a happy second life – at any cost. This retro-80s horror comedy retains a campy vibe despite some gruesome violence, including gory dismemberments. The casual murder, sexual innuendo, and teen alcohol consumption make this movie unsuitable for teens despite its PG-13 rating. Photo ©Focus Features

Theaters

Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13 B- B- A- C- D

Determined to provide a unifying event for his strife-torn country, musician Bob Marley decides to offer a free concert. But when he and his friends and family are shot at the Marley home, he flees Jamaica for Europe to find safety. Bookended by two blockbuster concerts, this film is geared to reggae fans who will enjoy the music. Other viewers will struggle with the strong Jamaican accents and parents will be unhappy with the non-stop marijuana use on screen, regardless of the religious rationale behind its consumption. Photo ©Paramount Pictures

Theaters Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13 D D B C- CElly Conway is the shy, reclusive author of a fictional spy series that is inadvertently revealing the details of a real-life covert organization When a spy comes to her rescue and scores more try to kill her, she devotes her research skills to saving herself and the rest of the world This should be a fun, zany film; instead it’s a jumbled, bloated mess with sloppy, amateurish CGI and an incoherent plot that’s burdened with ludicrous plot twists. More seriously, the film glamorizes and celebrates violence, treating killing as comic material. It isn’t funny. Photo ©Universal Pictures

Orion has a long list of fears, but none are as bad as his terror of the dark. One night, the Dark, who is tired of being a figure of dread, pays Orion a visit. Over the course of their adventure, Orion learns to reframe his fears. This film provides great messages to anxious children and can give them insight into their worries. The movie is beautifully animated but it comes with a sprinkling of minor profanities and some incoherent plot elements in the second half of the film. Kids will enjoy it more than their fussier parents. Photo ©Netflix Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com

Lisa Frankenstein

Orion and the Dark

Start the month off with tickets to Cashback: a Tribute to Johnny & June Carter Cash, 3/1 at OWA Theater—then start your engines for the Gulf Coast Mustang & Mega Car Show on 3/9. Get ready for Still Standing: a Tribute to Elton John, 3/22-23 only, and come back for classic Easter fun with our Bunnies & Baskets, 3/23-30. Doing good for the community is always a classic—don’t miss the Diabetes Walk (3/2) and Ronald McDonald House Rubber Ducky Regatta on 3/23! Get all the details at Visit OWA.com!

THRILL, THEN CHILL.

A Lesson He’ll Remember For the Rest of His Life

Q . Our 21-year-old son is in college, and we’ve always warned him to stay away from credit cards. Despite our warnings, we recently learned he got a store-branded credit card. The good news is he has stayed under the credit limit. The bad news is he has never made any payments on the purchases he made, and now he owes about $3,800. He’s a good student, and my husband and I want to look at this as a young person’s one-time mistake. Do you think we should pay off the card for him just this once?

A. Believe me, I understand you want ing to help him out. It means you’ve got a good heart, and you love him. No parent likes seeing their child in a bad situation.

FamilyCalendar

Friday March 1

Outback Presents John Crist

The Emotional Support Tour

7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602

https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

The Mobile County Commission Presents Souls Of Time

7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 Souls of Time, a musical drama, a Matthews Educational Consultant production, written and composed by Mobilians, Japonica Brown and Yvonne Matthews, is a story that follows a young girl named Jade, residing in Mobile, Alabama in 2020 before the Pandemic.

https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

The Royal Hanneford Circus

7:00 PM The Grounds, 1035 Cody Rd N Mobile, AL, 36608 The Royal Hanneford Circus is proud to present our all new show UNDER THE BIG TOP at the Grounds Fairgrounds. Come along & enjoy an incredible circus performance for the whole family! March 1-10 RoyalHannefordCircus.com

Saturday March 2, 2024

Christ United Church Women’s Conference ($40 per person or $20 for students with school ID )

9:00 AM - 12:30 PM, Christ United Church, 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Women of all ages are invited to celebrate their love of Christ while lifting each other up through worship, song and laughter during our 30th Annual Women’s Conference, Beautiful and Highly Favored led by guest speaker Cherie Nettles, a Certified Laughter Leader and Bible teacher, and worship leader Marsha Scarborough. Doors open at 8:15.

251-342-0462 www.christunited.com/wc2024

Satsuma Swamp Fest

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Satsuma High School, 1 Gator Circle Satsuma, AL, 36572 The event is sponsored by Friends for Satsuma Schools. And it’s day of music, good food, arts and crafts, inflatables, games, antique cars--and more.

251-675-0421 www.facebook.com/swampfest/

2024 Mobile Walk for Camp Seale Harris

10:00 AM OWA, Foley, AL This is a family-friendly Walk/Run raising awareness of diabetes, and an opportunity for participant fundraising efforts to make it possible for kids to attend Camp Seale Harris for kids and families living with diabetes. https://campsealeharris.org/diabeteswalk/

Pajama Movie Mornings

10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for a cozy book-to-a-moviethemed morning at the library. Come dressed in your comfiest pajamas as we explore a movie based on a favorite book in the Youth Programming Room. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Annual GLOW Walk/Fun Run - Colors of Cancer

6:30 PM Medal of Honor Park, 1711 Hillcrest Road Mobile, AL, 36608 8th Annual Colors of Cancer Glow Walk where we are bringing awareness to ALL Cancer. https://www.eventbrite.com

AEG Presents Floyd Nation

8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Floyd Nation is a U.S.-based Pink Floyd Tribute Band that performs all of your favorite hits from the vast collection of Pink Floyd albums such

as The Wall, Dark Side of the Moon, Animals, Wish You Were Here, Meddle and The Division Bell. https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

The Royal Hanneford Circus

Details on March 1.

WWII Living History Event

Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Make plans to visit historic Fort Gaines on March 2-3 and experience a day in the life of a WWII soldier. Reenactors in period garb will be performing drills throughout the day and showcasing authentic camping demonstrations. Always a fun and educational experience for the entire family! www.townofdauphinisland.org/calendar-of-events

Sunday March 3

Alabama Authors Day

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Five Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Blvd. Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Historic Blakeley State Park invites all those interested in the literary arts to join us at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center for our annual Alabama Authors Day. This special celebration showcases the work of accomplished writers throughout the state, with an emphasis on Gulf Coast authors and those who explore topics associated with regional history and natural heritage.

https://www.blakeleypark.com/

Mobile Opera-Annual Afternoon Tea ($25)

3:00 PM Bragg Mitchell Mansion, 1906 Spring Hill Ave Mobile, AL, 36607 Join Mobile Opera at the beautiful, Bragg Mitchell Mansion for an afternoon tea with guest speaker, David David from Alabama Public Radio. Mobile Opera Young Artists will provide the music for the afternoon.

(251) 432-6772

https://www.mobileopera.org/

The Royal Hanneford Circus

Details on March 1.

WWII Living History Event

Details on March 2.

Monday March 4

The Royal Hanneford Circus

Details on March 1.

Tuesday March 5

Women’s Health Screenings

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Connie Hudson Mobile Regional Senior Community Center Foundation , 3201 Hillcrest Rd Mobile, AL Celebrate Women’s History Month with the City of Mobile Parks and Recreation by prioritizing your physical and mental health. Women’s Health Screenings, Resources & Blood Drive from 10AM-2PM.

www.MobileParksandRec.org

The Royal Hanneford Circus

Details on March 1.

Wednesday March 6

The Royal Hanneford Circus

Details on March 1.

AEG Presents Foreigner The Farewell Tour

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602

https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Thursday March 7

Toddler Time-Mobile Museum of Art ($5 members per child per session | $10 non-members)

10:00 AM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum

Dr. Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for single sessions of sensory-based art projects designed especially for toddlers and preschool children. Toddler time is open to children ages 1 through 5. Registration online

https://www.mobilemuseumofart.com/

Women During WWII

11:00 AM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for our upcoming talk as we shine a spotlight on the resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment of women who played pivotal roles in shaping the course of history during wartime.

https://www.ussalabama.com/

Art Talk on the Works Progress Administration

6:00 PM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Dr. Mobile, AL, 36608 Inspired by DECADES: Looking Back/Moving Forward (1920 – 1939), join us for an art talk on the Works Progress Administration with Dr. Matthew L. Downs.

https://www.mobilemuseumofart.com/

2024 Festival of Flowers Gala

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Cathedral Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Be the first to view the Festival’s floral displays and sculptures by joining us for an evening under the stars. Enjoy cocktails and culinary delights by Morrissette and Company. Proceeds will be used to purchase advanced EKG monitors for the Cardiac Care Unit at USA Health Providence Hospital.

https://www.usahealthsystem.com/festival-of-flowers

The Royal Hanneford Circus Details on March 1.

Friday March 8

2024 Festival of Flowers

10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Cathedral Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 The award-winning Festival of Flowers will celebrate its 31st year in downtown Mobile’s Cathedral Square by proudly showcasing horticultural displays created by the Mobile area’s best teams of florists, nurseries, landscapers, designers, and artists.

https://www.usahealthsystem.com/festival-of-flowers

The Royal Hanneford Circus Details on March 1.

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”

7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois St Mobile, AL, 36611 The Peanuts gang tackle the great questions of the universe a—while playing games, doing homework, enjoying (or being tormented by) friends, and generally enjoying life.

https://cctshows.com/

Saturday March 9

Mobile Kidney Walk

8:00 AM UMS-Wright Preparatory School, 65 Mobile Street Mobile, AL, 36607 Registration begins at 8:00 am and the event ceremony will start at 9:00 am. There will be food; music; vendor tables; children’s area; door prizes and prizes for top fundraising teams and individuals.

http://alkf.convio.net/site/TR/Events/ General?pg=entry&fr_id=1210

FamilyCalendar

Egg-cellent Pool Egg Hunt

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, North Mobile YMCA, 92 Saraland Loop Saraland, AL, 36571 Feeling lucky? Ready for Spring? Join is at the North Mobile Family YMCA for an sp-egg-tacular egg-cellent event! Sign the kids up today for our 1st ever pool egg hunt. Fun for the entire family.

https://southalabama.recliquecore.com

2024 Festival of Flowers

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Details on March 8.

American Cancer Society Chili Cook-off

11:00 AM Canal Street, Mobile, AL, 36602 The American Cancer Society’s 2024 Chili Cook-Off will celebrate 35 years of cook-off fun once again on Canal Street in downtown Mobile on Saturday, March 9, 2024. Back this year - the Kids Corner so bring the entire family. https://mobileacschilicookoff.com/

Buds and Brews

5:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Cathedral Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 During our 11th annual Buds and Brews, presented by the Providence Foundation’s Young Advisory Group, guests 21 and up are invited to join us for live music, beer, and good food. Proceeds will be used to purchase advanced EKG monitors for the Cardiac Care Unit at Providence Hospital.

https://www.usahealthsystem.com/festival-of-flowers

Pendleton Whisky Presents Professional Bull Riders Velocity Tour

7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 Pendleton Whisky Presents Professional Bull Riders Velocity Tour

https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”

7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois St Mobile, AL, 36611 The Peanuts gang tackle the great questions of the universe a—while playing games, doing homework, enjoying (or being tormented by) friends, and generally enjoying life.

https://cctshows.com/

Mobile Symphony Presents Strings Attached

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This concert explores the progression of European classical music from Bach, to Mendelssohn, to Schumann, and on to the 20th century. Vibrant young artist Simone Porter will perform Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto, a guaranteed showstopper. Tickets are $20-$96 and can be purchased online at mobilesymphony.org, by phone at (251)432-2010 or at the Mobile Symphony Box Office located at 257 Dauphin Street. Student tickets are $10 on Saturdays. Through the MSO Big Red Ticket program sponsored by the Alabama Power Foundation and the Figures Foundation, students in grades K-12 can attend the Sunday performances free when accompanied by a paying adult.

https://mobilesymphony.org/

Stargazing Event

East End Beach, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The Town of Dauphin Island is excited to co-host a star gazing event with the Mobile Astronomical Society on March 9 at the East End Beach. We ask that participants arrive 30 minutes BEFORE dusk as headlights coming into the parking lot will ruin the sky for viewing. Please note this is a weather permitting event. If the sky is not clear the event will be rescheduled for April 6. There will be professional telescopes set up to look through and telescopes connected to cameras for viewing. www.townofdauphinisland.org/calendar-of-events

The Royal Hanneford Circus

Details on March 1.

Sunday March 10

2024 Festival of Flowers

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Details on March 8.

19th Annual Bunny Hop

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Geri Moulton Children’s Park, 1700 Springhill Ave. Mobile, AL, 36602 Family friendly Easter egg hunt benefitting RMHC.

https://rmhcmobile.org/news-events/bunny-hop/

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”

2:00 PM Details on March 9.

Mobile Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty Tea

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Mobile Ballet Eastern Shore, 26150 Equity Drive Daphne, AL, 36526 Mobile Ballet invites you to our Sleeping Beauty Tea on Sunday, March 10, 2-4 pm. At this fantastical fairytale tea party, guests of all ages will enjoy delicious treats, a special performance by Sleeping Beauty cast members, story time, fun photo ops and activities, a raffle, and more! This special event is presented by the Mobile Ballet Barre volunteer association and is a fundraiser for Mobile Ballet’s Releve Project student assistance program. Get tickets at www.mobileballet.org.

www.mobileballet.org

FamilyCalendar

Mobile Symphony Presents Strings Attached 2:30 PM Details on March 9.

Afternoon of Stars (Free)

3:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us in Bernheim Hall of the Ben May Main Library to hear members of the casts of our upcoming productions perform their favorite musical selections! Come enjoy beautiful music and meet the stars over light refreshments following the performance.

www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

The Royal Hanneford Circus

Details on March 1.

Tuesday March 12

Teen Cuisine

3:30 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join Ms. Jennifer at West Regional Library in the meeting room and learn how to make a quick tasty meal for a busy day! Registration is required! To register, please use this form: https:// forms.office.com/r/iMyn5SRQ7P.

(251) 340-1588 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Women’s History Month-Springhill

Taekwondo Center - Self Defense

5:30 PM Springhill Taekwondo, 1704 Government Street Mobile, AL Learn the basics of self defense. www.MobileParksandRec.org

Night of the Classical Masters (Free)

7:00 PM University of Mobile, 5735 College Parkway Mobile, AL, 36613 Celebrate the Splendor of Classical Music at Alabama School of the Arts! Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with classical works performed by our talented University Singers, Chorale, and Orchestra. Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies from various eras, ranging from Baroque to Romantic featuring all three ensembles together in harmony. umobile.edu/pas

Wednesday March 13

Wee Exchange Kids Resale

7:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Rd Mobile, AL, 36695 The Largest Children’s Consignment Sale on the Gulf Coast.

https://wee-exchange.com/

Make-A-Craft

3:00 PM Virginia Dillard Smith/Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL, 36617 Get creative and create something special. Come and join us a the Toulminville Branch for a St. Patrick’s day themed craft to make and take home!

251-494-4982 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Savvy Mom Sale

9:00am - 5:00pm Daphne Civic Center 2603 Highway 98, Daphne, AL 36526

Savvy Mom Sale is a seasonal consignment sale. We invite you to volunteer, consign, & shop with the Savvy Mom Sale! Visit our website or checkout our Facebook page for updates, volunteer perks, consignment opportunities and discount days!

www.SavvyMomSale.com

Thursday March 14

Plantasia Spring Plant Sale

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Get the best plants for your Gulf Coast garden at the largest plant sale in the South East www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org/event/previewparty-plantasia-spring-plant-sale

Wee Exchange Kids Resale

9:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Rd Mobile, AL, 36695 The Largest Children’s Consignment Sale on the Gulf Coast.

https://wee-exchange.com/

Winged Wonders: Birds, Conservation, and Outdoor Discovery

11:00 AM USS ALABAMA

Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for a unique experience as we host a captivating talk on birding and nature conservation. Our special guest speaker, Courtney Weatherby from Alabama Audubon, will take you on a journey through the skies, unraveling the fascinating world of birds and their significance in nature conservation.

https://www.ussalabama.com/

Pi Day Party

4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Mathnasium of Mobile, 7721 Airport Blvd #E130 Mobile, AL, 36608 Mathnasium of Mobile celebrates Pi Day on March 14 with free food, prizes, fun, and games. The event is open to students in grades K-12 and their parents. We’ll crown a Pi Day Champion and raffle prizes for attendees.

251-490-8890

Preview Party – Plantasia Spring Plant Sale

4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Our 2024 Spring Plant Sale will feature the popular Preview Party on Thursday, March 14th, with catering by Georgia Roussos Catering and music by Keith ‘The Mailman’ Burns. Ticket information online.

www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org/event/previewparty-plantasia-spring-plant-sale

USA Faculty Brass Quintet Recital

7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608

www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Friday March 15

Savvy Mom Sale

9:00am - 5:00pm Daphne Civic Center 2603 Highway 98, Daphne, AL 36526 25% off day. Details March 13.

www.SavvyMomSale.com

Plantasia Spring Plant Sale

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Get the best plants for your Gulf Coast garden at the largest plant sale in the South East

www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org/event/previewparty-plantasia-spring-plant-sale

Wee Exchange Kids Resale

9:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Rd Mobile, AL, 36695 The Largest Children’s Consignment Sale on the Gulf Coast.

https://wee-exchange.com/

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”

7:30 PM Details on March 9.

Kip Franklin, USA Faculty Clarinet Recital

7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Kip Franklin, USA Faculty Clarinet Recital

www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Real Talk for Women

Junior League of Mobile, 57 N. Sage Avenue Mobile, AL Save the date for a community event focused on women’s health! Junior League of Mobile (JLM) is proud to present the community health event, Real Talk for Women, on March 15, 2024, at JLM Headquarters located at 57 N. Sage Avenue in Mobile. This event is open to all members of the public!

https://www.juniorleaguemobile.org/real-talk-forwomen-sponsored-by-springhill-medical-center/

Saturday March 16

Wee Exchange Kids Resale

7:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Rd Mobile, AL, 36695 The Largest Children’s Consignment Sale on the Gulf Coast.

https://wee-exchange.com/

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Double D’s Burger, 29001 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Come out to have Breakfast with the Easter Bunny. Bring a camera and take your picture with the Easter Bunny.

(251) 930-9482

Savvy Mom Sale

8:00am - 2:00pm Daphne Civic Center 2603 Highway 98, Daphne, AL 36526 50% off day. Details March 13.

www.SavvyMomSale.com

Touch a Truck

10:00 AM The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road Mobile, AL, 36608 A family friendly event where anyone can touch and ask questions about a variety of trucks and construction equipment. This event supports Rapahope and Adoption Rocks!

https://www.rapahope.org/

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”

7:30 PM Details on March 9.

Sunday March 17

Azalea Festival

12:00 PM Mary G. Montgomery, 4275 Snow Road Semmes, AL, 36575 This family friendly event features activities of interest for people of all ages. Crafts, car show, plant sales, food vendors, fun for the kids and more.

https://cityofsemmesal.gov/

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”

2:00 PM Details on March 9.

AEG Presents An Evening With Steve Hackett

7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 AEG Presents An Evening With Steve Hackett

https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Tuesday March 19

Women’s History Month-Clothing Swap

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Langan Park, Mobile, AL, 36608 Bring your gently used clothing and swap.

www.MobileParksandRec.org

USA Faculty Piano Recital

7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608

www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

FamilyCalendar

Thursday March 21,

First Responders Appreciation Lunch

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Tillman’s Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Rd Mobile, AL, 36619 Free drive thru lunch for first responders.

First Annual Virginia-Dillard Smith Tea Party

3:00 PM - 4:30 PM, Virginia Dillard Smith/Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL, 36617 Come on and let’s drink tea together while enjoying the beautiful afternoon. Wear your Sunday’s best because you are cordially invited to attend the first annual Virginia Dillard-Smith tea party for young ladies with young men as special guest.

251-494-4982 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Doc Rock 2024

7:00 PM Soul Kitchen, 219 Dauphin St Mobile, AL, 36602 Doc Rock is a “battle of the bands” style event where at least one member of each band has an affiliation with USA Health. Doors open at 7 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite band, and prizes will be awarded in a variety of categories. Join us March 21st, benefiting research and critical clinical needs at USA Health. https://www.usahealthsystem.com/doc-rock

Friday March 22

Putt-Putt at the Library

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us at the West Regional Library to enjoy mini-golf at our unique indoor course, for ages 6 and older. Registration is required. To Register or for more information please email Christina Coxe at ccoxe@mplonline.org or call 251-340-1588.

251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Live Music in the Park ($8 adults/$4 kids 6-12)

6:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Historic Blakeley State Park, 34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 We welcome two of this area’s favorite local artists to the park! Kalyn Muller, a frequent guest at numerous area restaurants and events, brings a soulful blend of Folk, Americana, and other great music from the past and present. Baldwin County native Brad Lawley plays throughout the Southeast combining his versions of country and blues. The Greek Gals food truck will be on site! www.blakeleypark.com/

Spring Spectacular ($10)

7:00 PM University of Mobile, 5735 College Parkway Mobile, AL, 36613 This evening is the perfect outdoor family event to bring your lawn chairs and blankets, grab a hotdog and cola from our concessions, and enjoy an amazing concert with a firework ending. https://asota.umobile.edu/event/spring-spectacular-2024/

Sunny Side Theater and Drama Camp Productions presents Winnie the Pooh Kids

7:00 PM Baker High School, 8901 Airport Blvd Mobile, AL, 36608 Join Winnie the Pooh in the hundred acre woods as he goes on adventures with his friends. On their adventure they learn Christopher Robin has been taken by the mysterious Backson. In order to save him, Winnie the Pooh and his friends prepare a rescue operation and along the way they learn valuable lessons about teamwork and friendship. www.sunnysidedrama.com/

Big Spring Entertainment Presents Travis Tritt

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Mobile Opera presents Rigoletto

7:30 PM The Temple Downtown, 351 St. Francis Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Mobile Opera presents Rigoletto. (251) 432-6772 https://www.mobileopera.org/

North American Entertainment Group Presents Katt Williams The Dark Matter Tour

8:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 North American Entertainment Group Presents Katt Williams The Dark Matter Tour https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Saturday March 23

Azalea Trail Run

8:00 AM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 https://portcitypacers.com/pcp_atr/

March Living History Crew Drill

8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Come see history come to life with our WWII reenactors during their February drill. Interact with historical WWII reenactors aboard the USS ALABAMA and USS DRUM.

https://www.ussalabama.com/

2024 Literary Festival

9:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 FREE writing conference set for Saturday, March 23, 2024, at the Ben May Main Library. Aspiring and accomplished writers and readers of all genres are welcome at the 2024 Mobile Literary Festival ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE. This year’s festival will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Ben May Main Library

www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Easter Egg HuntBellingrath Gardens

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road

Theodore, AL, 36582

The Egg Hunt takes center stage, offering a thrilling search for hidden treasures. Little ones aged 0-3 years and those with special needs have their dedicated session from 9 to 10:30 AM, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Ages 4-6 follow at 10 AM, and Ages 7+ at 10:15 AM, with each group having their exclusive time to partake in the excitement. Visit with the Easter Bunny, enjoy crafts, games and more.

https://bellingrath.org/event/easter-egg-hunt/

Ghost Fleet Cruise ($27/adults and $17/kids ages 6-12)

9:00 AM Historic Blakeley State Park, 34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 This two-hour excursion, departing from the Blakeley Park dock, takes guests up the storied Tensaw River to discover the site where the famed “Ghost Fleet”—a naval reserve fleet of hundreds of vessels kept in readiness for service in the decades after WWII—were once moored. www.blakeleypark.com/

Crepe Myrtle Festival

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, McNally Park, 4305 Bay Front Rd Mobile, AL, 36605 The newest Spring Festival on

FamilyCalendar

the shores of sunny Mobile Bay, at the heart of the parkway, McNally Park! Join us for kayaking, food, fun, music and community directly following the Crepe Myrtle Trail bicycle ride by Mobile United that now begins and ends at McNally Park.

Cajun CookOff

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Cathedral Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Benefit Child Advocacy Center. https://www.cacmobile.org/buynow.shtml

Dauphin Island Easter Egg Hunt

10:00 AM Green Park, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Green Park will be filled with eggs for kids of all ages to hunt! After the hunt there will be a sack race, egg spoon race and a hula hoop contest (1 even for adults!). WIN PRIZES while having a blast! The Easter Bunny will also be on sight for pictures! www.townofdauphinisland.org/calendar-of-events

Easter at Seward Farms

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Seward Farms, 10836 Tanner Williams Rd Lucedale, MS, 39452 Seward farms offers a safe, fun unique egg hunting experience for children ages 1 to 10 years old. The farm will be open from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm or your enjoyment. The Easter Bunny will be available for visits from 10:00 am until 12:30 pm at the farm!

www.sewardfarms.com/Seward-farm-Easter.htm

PetFest of the Gulf Coast

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Medal of Honor Park, 1711 Hillcrest Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Cumulus Media of Mobile is back with our “PetFest of the Gulf Coast!” From food trucks to demonstrations, we’re here to show your pets some love!

Rubber Ducky Regatta

11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, OWA, 101 S Owa Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 Watch out for the big splash when thousands of “adopted” rubber duckies are dropped into the lake at OWA Parks & Resorts where they will race to the finish line during Rubber Ducky Regatta, 100% of the benefits go to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile. The first three ducks to cross the finish line will win some fabulous prizes for their owners!Bring your family, bring your friends, and enjoy a fun-filled day of family activities, games, live music, food, and more, and watch thousands of adorable rubber ducks paddle their way to the finish line!

https://rubberduckyregatta.com/

Adult Field Day 2024

2:00 PM Herndon Park, 2900 Dauphin St Mobile, AL, 36606 Join The City of Mobile Parks and Recreation Department to play all of your favorite field day games - from relays to tug of war - for free! Enjoy a live DJ, plenty of games and tons of fun! www.MobileParksandRec.org

6th Annual Lemon Face Gala

6:00 PM Fort Whiting, 1630 S Broad St Mobile, AL, 36605 6th Annual Lemon Face Gala. The Tribute band will be back and tickets will include food from Naman’s Catering and of course our open bar including our signature Lemon Drop Martinis! We will also have our Amazing Silent Auction as well! Buy your tickets now! We expect this event to sell out!

https://www.aubreighsarmyfoundation328.com/ lemon-face-gala.html

Mobile Ballet Presents Sleeping Beauty

7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 Mobile Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty will transport you on a mystical journey to the fairytale world in a story where evil meets good and the power of love overcomes all obstacles once again. This iconic ballet is a masterclass in the classical style, ideal for long-time ballet lovers as well as newcomers. Audi-

ences of all ages will be swept away by this elegant production featuring Tchaikovsky’s ravishing score, stunning sets and costumes, and international guest artists, in a new adaptation by Artistic Director Katia Garza. Classical ballet at its finest! https://mobileballet.org/

Easter Cottontail Bunny Trail

Flea Market, 401 Schillinger Rd N Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us on March 23rd for our Easter Cottontail Bunny Trail Event, follow the Cottontail Bunny Trail around the Market for candy, surprises, and fun!

https://www.mobilefleamarket.com/

Sunny Side Theater and Drama Camp Productions presents Winnie the Pooh Kids Details on March 22.

Sunday March 24

Mobile Ballet Presents Sleeping Beauty

2:00 PM Details on March 23.

Sunny Side Theater and Drama Camp Productions presents Winnie the Pooh Kids

2:00 PM Details on March 22.

Mobile Opera presents Rigoletto

2:30 PM The Temple Downtown, 351 St. Francis Street Mobile, AL, 36602 (251) 432-6772 https://www.mobileopera.org/

AEG Presents Get The Led Out

8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 From the bombastic and epic, to the folky and mystical, Get The Led Out (GTLO) have captured the essence of the recorded music of Led Zeppelin and brought it to the concert stage. The Philadelphia-based group consists of six veteran musicians intent on delivering Led Zeppelin live, like you’ve never heard before.

https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Monday March 25

USA Percussion Ensemble & Jaguar Steel Spring Percussion Concert

7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Tuesday March 26

Women’s History Bingo

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Thomas Sullivan Community Center, 351 N Catherine St Mobile, AL, 36603 Come play Women’s History Month Bingo to win prizes. www.MobileParksandRec.org

Wednesday March 27

World Theatre Day Masquerade Masks

4:00 PM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Join us in the Semmes Meeting Room to create masquerade masks. Drama, comedy, tragedy, you decide what mask you make! All supplies will be provided. Intended for ages 6-18. Registration is recommended! To register or for more information, please call 251-494-4935 or email Callie Kelley at ckelley@mplonline.org.

251-494-4935 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday March 28

Family Art

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Dr. Mobile, AL, 36608 This class is for families to create together. Each month will feature a different art medium with a project tied to the MMofA collection. Parents are encouraged to stay and create with

their families. Suitable for homeschool families.

https://www.mobilemuseumofart.com/

Eggstra Special Break

4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for an Eggstra Special Break! We plan to decorate eggs, hunt for eggs, and more!

www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Art Talk

6:00 PM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Dr. Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for an interactive discussion and activity exploring developmentally appropriate practices to enhance artistic development and the power of arts education from birth to adulthood. Consider the “art” of teaching young children, beyond coloring sheets. Regard how we respond to children’s art work. Discuss how and why we display children’s art work, and talk about what the Arts teach.

https://www.mobilemuseumofart.com/

USA Trombone Choir Spring Concert

7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Trombone Choir Spring Concert

www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Saturday March 30

American Battlefield Trust Park Day (Free but registration is required)

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, For this year’s observance of the American Battlefield Trust’s national Park Day, Historic Blakeley State Park is hosting a special volunteer public archaeology day. Be a part of this unique opportunity to assist professional archaeologists in a thorough documentation of a part of Fort Blakeley known as “Redoubt 3,” recently acquired by the Historic Blakeley Foundation. This is an original portion of the Confederate defensive line constructed 1864-1865. The site is located just off of Cloverleaf Landing Road. From the main park entrance, go north 1.75 miles on Hwy. 225. Turn left onto Cloverleaf Landing Road, and proceed 1.4 miles to Cloverleaf Landing Road West

www.blakeleypark.com/

Infirmary Health Bunny Bolt

8:00 AM Mobile Infirmary, 51 Mobile Infirmary Cir Mobile, AL, 36607 Grab your friends and family and hop on over to the Infirmary Health Bunny Bolt on Saturday, March 30, 2024 on the campus of Mobile Infirmary. This is a family friendly event with a 5K run, 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk and post-race festivities. Proceeds from the event will benefit children’s health education programs at the Exploreum Science Center and the Fuse Project.

https://raceroster.com/events/2024/83740/the-bunnybolt-5k-and-1-mile-fun-run

Praise Family Church Easter Egg Hunt

10:00 AM Praise Family Church, 2605 Dawes Road Mobile, AL, 36695 Praise Family Church invites you to their Easter Egg Hunt with 35,000 eggs! The egg hunt is open to ages newborn through 5th grade. 251-639-1959

Easter at Seward Farms

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Seward Farms, 10836 Tanner Williams Rd Lucedale, MS, 39452 Seward farms offers a safe, fun unique egg hunting experience for children ages 1 to 10 years old. The farm will be open from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm or your enjoyment. The Easter

FamilyCalendar

Bunny will be available for visits from 10:00 am until 12:30 pm at the farm!

www.sewardfarms.com/Seward-farm-Easter.htm

UMC Easter Egg Hunt at Cadillac Square

10:00 AM Cadillac Square, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 UMC Easter Egg Hunt at Cadillac Square www.townofdauphinisland.org/calendar-of-events

Shirley Looney Memorial Car Show

4:00 PM Langan Park, Mobile, AL, 36608 14th Annual “Shirley Looney Memorial” Car Show will have a large assortment of antique, new and classic cars, trucks, hot rods and rat rods. We also have an outdoor market with vendors selling unique items for the entire family! This is a FREE event open for the public to attend, and profits from the show will benefit the Adam Looney Memorial Fund and the Deep South Region AACA.

Live Nation Presents Kountry Wayne

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602

https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Sunday March 31

Easter Sunrise Service

6:30 AM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for our annual Easter Sunrise Service presented by Government Street Baptist Church. The service is held on the grounds in front of the USS ALABAMA. Seating is limited so bring a chair, just in case. The service is free of charge and open to the public.

Easter Sunrise Service-Bellingrath Gardens

6:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Embrace the serenity of Easter at Bellingrath Gardens with our Sunrise Service on March 31, 2024. Gates open at 5:45 am, and the service commences at 6:30 am. As the sun bathes the gardens in morning light, join us for a special, inclusive service open to the entire community.

https://bellingrath.org/event/easter-sunrise-service/

Tuesday April 2

USA Jazz Ensemble Spring Concert

7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608

www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Friday April 5

Southwest Chamber of CommerceBusiness Expo

2:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Tillman’s Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Rd Mobile, AL, 36619 Southwest Chamber of Commerce - Business Expo

Joe Jefferson Players Present Mame

7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606

https://joejeffersonplayers.com/

The Playhouse in the Park Presents The Miracle Worker

7:30 PM Playhouse in the Park, 4851 Museum Dr Mobile, AL, 36608

http://playhouseinthepark.org/

Saturday April 6

Tour de LADR

7:30 AM Beckwith Camp & Conference Center, 10400 Beckwith Ln Fairhope, AL, 36532 Annual Tour de LADR Bike Ride to benefit rapahope. https://tourdeladr.com/

Antiques, Collectibles, Craft Show ($4 ($5 for Credit Card) 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Rd Mobile, AL, 36695 A

Dauphin Island

Discovery Day

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The open house event gives you the chance to learn about current research and and learn more about the coastal ecosystem we live in. The day includes a chance to explore real scientific laboratories, hands-on science lessons, and free children’s admission to the Alabama Aquarium.

https://www.disl.edu/events/discovery-day/

Easter at Seward Farms

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Seward Farms, 10836 Tanner Williams Rd Lucedale, MS, 39452 Seward farms offers a safe, fun unique egg hunting experience for children ages 1 to 10 years old. The farm will be open from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm or your enjoyment. The Easter Bunny will be available for visits from 10:00 am until 12:30 pm at the farm!

www.sewardfarms.com/Seward-farm-Easter.htm

5th Annual Krewe of Kindness Ball

6:00 PM Battle House Hotel, 26 N. Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Open to all ages, we return to the Battle House Hotel to dance and enjoy a night with family and friends. The Krewe of Kindness, a volunteer-based and family led non- profit organization, was formed to help provide support and assistance to families and individuals in our area to enable them to lead healthy and active lifestyles while emphasizing the importance of inclusion and acceptance within our community.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/5th-annual-krewe-ofkindness-ball-tickets-748890851697

Joe Jefferson Players Present Mame

7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606

https://joejeffersonplayers.com/

Mobile Symphony Presents Mozart’s Requiem

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602

https://mobilesymphony.org/

The Playhouse in the Park Presents

The Miracle Worker

7:30 PM Playhouse in the Park, 4851 Museum Dr Mobile, AL, 36608 The Playhouse in the Park Presents

The Miracle Worker

http://playhouseinthepark.org/

Sunday April 7

Antiques, Collectibles, Craft Show

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Rd Mobile, AL, 36695 Antiques, Collectibles, Craft Show

Joe Jefferson Players Present Mame

2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606

https://joejeffersonplayers.com/

Mobile Symphony Presents Mozart’s Requiem

2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 https://mobilesymphony.org/

The Playhouse in the Park Presents The Miracle Worker

2:30 PM Playhouse in the Park, 4851 Museum Dr Mobile, AL, 36608 http://playhouseinthepark.org/

Tuesday April 9

USA Flute Choir & Celtic Crúe Spring Concert

7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Flute Choir & Celtic Crúe Spring Concert

www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Women’s Resource Center Gala

Saenger Theatre Mobile, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for an evening of great celebration of 40 years of LIFE in Mobile!

https://wrcmobile.org/

Wednesday April 10

World Ballet Series Presents Swan Lake

7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 Experience the legendary Swan Lake, the ballet of all ballets, will be performed one night only as a part of the World Ballet Series.

https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Thursday April 11

Toddler Time-Mobile Museum of Art

($5 members per child per session | $10 non-members)

10:00 AM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Dr. Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for single sessions of sensory-based art projects designed especially for toddlers and preschool children. Toddler time is open to children ages 1 through 5. Registration online

https://www.mobilemuseumofart.com/

50th Birthday CelebrationMobile Botanical Gardens

6:00 PM Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 The MBG Board of Directors invites you to the Gardens for a festive night of jazz, food and drink, and fun while taking in the magical surroundings of the Gardens in spring.

https://mbgrebloomshop.com/collections/goldenanniversary-2024

Friday April 12

Emporium Presents The Guess Who

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Emporium Presents The Guess Who https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Saturday April 13

Mobile Chocolate Festival

8:30 AM - 3:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Rd N Mobile, AL, 36608 Indulge in all that is Chocolate! Proceeds benefit Penelope House!

https://mobilechocolatefestival.com/

BNB Productions Presents BackNBlack

8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street

Mobile, AL, 36602 BNB Productions Presents BackNBlack, The Ultimate AC/DC Experience

https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Sunday April 14

MEGA Events Presents The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight

8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street

Mobile, AL, 36602 In ethereal candlelit settings, this band of 14 classical musicians unleash effortlessly enchanting melodies alongside powerful walls of distortion. Witness the unexpected union of Classical music and Metal.

https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

FamilyCalendar

Every Monday

Family Fun Storytime

10:00 AM Virginia Dillard Smith/Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL, 36617 251-494-4982 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Mystery Monday

3:00 PM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Pkwy B Mobile, AL, 36605 Scavenger hunts, LEGO challenges, movies, puzzles & more. Ages 3-18 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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 problemsolving 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

Good Listener Storytime

10:30 AM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Pkwy B Mobile, AL, 36605 Join us for fun with stories, words that rhyme, games and crafts too! This storytime event is designed for ages 3 – 7. Registration is required. To register, or for more information, please email Ms. Gert at glaffiette@mplonline.org, or call her at (251) 494-4454. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday Time Out Storytime at Grand Bay

11:00 AM Grand Bay Library, 10329 Freeland Ave Grand Bay, AL, 36541 Entertaining storytime designed for preschool-aged children! Join us in the Meeting Room at the Grand Bay Library for fun stories, song and crafts.

www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Wednesday

Good Listener Storytime

10:00 AM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 McGregor Ave Mobile, AL, 36608 Storytime 251-494-4140 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wonderful Wednesday Storytime

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM, Theodore Oaks, 5808 US-90 West E Theodore, AL Join us for stories and songs and lots of fun!

www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Good Listener Storytime at Semmes

10:30 AM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Join us for stories, songs, and dances!

www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Preschooler Storytime

10:30 AM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, AL, 36571 Preschooler Storytime 251-675-2879 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Teen Anime Hangout at Ben May Main Library

3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us upstairs at the

Ben May Main Library Teen Hangout to enjoy anime, video games, and snacks. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

First and third Wednesday

Wonderful Wednesdays at West

3:30 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 On the first and third Wednesdays of every month, children and families are encouraged to meet up in the Children’s Department room for arts, crafts, occasional science projects, and lots of fun!

251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wednesday and Thursday

Shake, Rattle, & Read Storytime at West Regional Library

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

Read and Sign (ASL) Storytime at West Regional Library

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

Every Second

Wednesday

Learning Lunch (Free)

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

Every other Wednesday

Sign It Your Way and More

2:00 PM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Create sign language arts & crafts, or try scavenger hunts, games & more. Ages 6-14 251-494-4935 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Thursday

Throwdown Thursday - Video and Board Games for Teens at West

3:30 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 This is a laid-back meetup to unwind playing games with other teens. We will have various board games, nintendo switch, playstation and xbox games for multiplayer matchups that include various genres - puzzle, racing, fighting, shooting, and open-world-type games. 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Chess Club

4:00 PM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 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

Every Thursday thru May

Tales and Trails in the Gardens (Included in cost of admission / Free for MBG Members)

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 A literacy program

for young children every Thursday morning. Reading stories and sharing activities in the Gardens - for Preschoolers and Homeschoolers. Registration required - call the office at (251)342-0555

251-342-0555 https://mobilebotanicalgardens.org/

Every Second Friday

LoDA Artwalk

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

www.mobilearts.org/art-walk/

Every Saturday

Saturday Science

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

www.exploreum.com

Saturday Crafternoon

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

Every Second Saturday

Saturdays at the Coop

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

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

First Sunday of the month

Free First Sunday - History Museum of Mobile (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!

251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Every weekend March 2-30

Wales West Cottontail Express

13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL, 36576 Always a family favorite, a ride on real train is only one part of an experience that includes an Easter egg hunt, treats and refreshments, and a visit with the Easter Bunny. 888-569-5337 https://waleswest.com/

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

Please send your calendar events to lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

Online Noise!

How Much Is Too Much and How to Quiet It

In today’s world, it seems like everyone knows everything about everybody. And that just feels like a lot of “stuff” for our brains to take in. What your neighbor had for dinner with their spouse during #datenight. How much your friend’s friend of a friend is enjoying their vacation. #blessed How angry the neighbor down the street is with her husband because he won’t help around the house. #whocares

The first time your cousin’s toddler went potty on the potty. #finally How much your favorite influencer’s daughter loves to dress up as Elsa and provide 50 pictures of her as proof. #letiggo No. Really. Please, let it go. Or make it stop.

For thousands of years, and up until around 20 years ago, our main form of communication was face-to-face interaction, meaning you were limited to the amount of information you received about other people and their lives. You were limited to local information, not what was happening globally. I would argue that while we seem to want to know everything, having constant access

While I am speaking a bit tongue in cheek here, and I think your kids are cute, at some point, it becomes too much. Notwithstanding all of the new issues we are now facing with privacy and AI, if we narrow it down to bare bones, we were never meant to have this much input every day. Our bodies and minds are not built for the constant onslaught of information we receive through our screens.

by widening our lenses hasn’t led to fulfillment or enlightenment; instead, it has contributed to feelings of angst and anxiety.

As humans, we have a limit. A spillover point, if you will. Where even good news feels like too much news and adds to our every feeling of being overwhelmed. As anthropologist Dr. Anna Machin states, “We are whipping ahead with all this innovation, doing these

amazing things, but the biological evolution hasn’t evolved and isn’t adapted to having social relationships online. So there is a massive mismatch.”

Our brains and bodies are incredibly smart. There are cool fail-safes built within our system that give off warning signs when it has had too much. Is it any wonder that collectively, as a society, we feel more overwhelmed and exhausted than ever? Online noise is... noisy. And our voyeuristic desire to constantly peek into the window of everyone else’s home works hand in hand with the available noise. The side effect is the noise drowns out all the cues our bodies are so desperately trying to give us. To rest. To take a break. To get sunshine and fresh air. To navigate only your life issues. Our bodies simply are not built to hold the weight of the world.

What can we do? Share less. Get online less. Get outside more. Have more face-to-face interactions. These seem like such simple and easy ideas. And they are. Honoring how we are made may be the key to quieting the noise.

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.