Mobile Bay Parents (November 2023) by KeepSharing

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Get your celebration in gear with our Elf Academy (12/9-10) and Sugar Plum Festival (12/16-17)! Make plans for a weekend breakfast with Santa and our Week of Christmas celebration (see dates online). There’s big magic in our North Pole Experience—and onstage at OWA Theater with a tribute to Louis Armstrong & Ella Fitzgerald plus OWA’s Christmas Special. See all the details, dates and showtimes online at VisitOWA.com!

THRILL, THEN CHILL.

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Volume 13 Number 8

Columns 2 Publisher’s Note

Meeting Kids Where They Are

Learning to process positive emotions.

The Hidden Power of Laughter

4 Meeting Kids Where They Are Works of Wonder Therapy

All the benefits and how to laugh more!

10 Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

The Truth About Your Child’s Fever A fever is defined as any temperature greater than 100.4, regardless of age. The thermometer can vary by age; the ideal mode of accurately recording a temperature is rectally or orally. Rectal temperatures are much easier to obtain in younger children, while typically, only older children can take a temperature orally, as it requires patience and following directions. There are many other, less intrusive ways to collect temperatures, with forehead, ear, or axillary temperatures being the most common – and they all work just fine. Is there a temperature at which you should worry? The short answer is no. We treat all temperatures the same regardless of whether they are 100.5 or 105. The only time a pediatrician will tell you that a fever is

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

an emergency is if the child is 28 days or less of age or if there is an immunocompromising medical condition that requires aggressive care of fevers in a child. The most important guidance for what you should do about your child’s fever is to observe your child. If your child is playing, eating, and drinking normally, you do not have to do anything for the fever. Temperatures rise, and they naturally go back down within a few hours. Don’t forget that a fever is your body’s way of fighting off whatever is causing the fever – so fevers are not inherently bad. The time to treat a fever is when you can tell that your child does not feel or act well. You do not have to wait to see how high the temperature will rise before treating the fever

because your pediatrician will treat all fevers the same. There are two options for treating your child’s fever – Tylenol or Motrin, and dosing is based on weight. Cold baths and topical rubbing alcohol are not proven as effective fever reducers and can actually make your child more miserable. Call your pediatrician if there are any concerns for your child’s fever, if it’s lasted longer than 48 hours, or if they are not acting well despite your treating their fever with appropriate medications.

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

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Autauga County Schools Old Shell Road Magnet Students Participate in Music Festival

Cypress Grove Academy Celebrates Greek Week

Cypress Grove Academy celebrated Greek Week where they experienced the fascinating myths, delicious cuisine, and Greek-inspired games of our ancient past.

Students from Old Shell Road Magnet School represented their school at the annual Alabama Music Educators Association Elementary Music Festival in Birmingham on October 27: Participants were: Rocland Jones, Charlotte Erdman, Utsetsi Nyanga, Kalvin Moore, Christyn Morris-Brown, Deriana Smith, and Chase Allen.

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Allentown Elementary September 2023 GATOR Kids

Pre-K – 2nd Grade: Front Row – Lyla Byerley, Sophia Johnston, Kyle McCall, Alannah Patterson, Zayden Robinson, Ashlynn Stanley, and Justin Walter. Middle Row – Milena Djurdjevic, Ana Lucia Pulido-Ocampo, Wyatt Robinson, and Journee Stallworth. Back Row – Jason Becker, Hayden Culbreth, Maddilyn Culp, Allison Diego, and Camille Jones. Not Pictured – Sadie Atwell, Brooklyn Barnett, McKenzie Longstreet, and Zakaryah Reed. 3rd – 5th Grade: Front Row – Benjamin Cox, Callie Emrich, Charleigh Matthews, Samantha Rangel, and Charleigh Sievering. Middle Row –Taite Culbreth, Anaya Inge, Drew Lofton, Bella Montalvo, Jackson Singleton, and Abigail Snyder. Back Row – A’Ryah Childs, Jordyn Godfrey, Jayden Jackson, Madisyn Mayo, Marli McLean, and Lincoln Stewart.

Read Write Academy “Cold as Ice”

Our Read Write Academy students love science class! In this experiment, they had to investigate the Properties of Matter. As part of their investigation, they had to answer the question: “How do the particles that make up an ice cube disperse or move about the water when they melt?” Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

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St. Mary Students Learn about Litter Literacy

St. Mary Catholic School 6th Grade Science teacher, Juli Reece invited Evelyn DeAngelo with the Osprey Initiative to class this October to tell them about the litter in Mobile. The Osprey Initiative has teamed up with Mayor Simpson and the City of Mobile to help keep litter out of our watershed. A little trivia...the city pays $1,000,000 a year to keep litter out of our streams, rivers and our bay!

Heartwood Christian Academy - State Finalist

Action Academy Mobile Welcomes The Honey Hill

Congratulations to Jarek Hough on an amazing finish in boys’ archery. As Jarek states, “The hard work with practicing really paid off.” Jarek offers “praise to the Lord” for his skills which helped him earn 3rd place at the Alabama State Championship. He was awarded this medal which he displays with honor. Jarek is ranked 352 out of 1037 in overall ranking for boys in the state of Alabama. He is ranked 37 out of 360 in the overall ranking for boys in the elementary division. Jarek is a true leader in every way. Heartwood Christian Academy wishes to congratulate him on such a strong finish. We’re looking forward to seeing what next season holds for this talented young man.

Acton Academy Mobile learners welcomed The Honey Hill bee experts for a hands-on learning experience! They were thrilled to explore bee hives, honey comb, the bee life stages and span, and even got to taste some fresh, local fall honey!

You’re invited to

MEET THE MUSTANGS! Interested families are invited to join us during a week of scheduled visits to find out more about ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL! Families will be able see our students and teachers in action from Early C (starting at 6 weeks) to 8th Grade. Grab-and-go lunches will be available for those who need to visit during lunch breaks. Come see what St. Mary’s has to offer!

NOVEMBER 6–10, 2023

EARLY C (6 WEEKS TO 2 YEARS) THROUGH PRESCHOOL

Tours available between 9:00AM–11:00AM

KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 8TH GRADE

Tours available between 9:00AM–1:00PM

Please contact St. Mary Catholic School Office at (251) 433-9904 for more information or visit stmarymobile.org to schedule a personal visit!

a legacy of excellence

SCHOLARS AND LEADERS IN FAITH

Scan here to learn more about St. Mary’s and sign up for your tour!

107 N Lafayette St, Mobile, AL 36604 | 251-433-9904 | stmarymobile.org

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Autauga County Schools

Acton Academy Students Partner with Local Business

St. Mary Teacher Attends Astronaut Training

The Acton Academy Mobile Discovery Studio learners partnered with local business, Reney’s Honey Butter, to create encouraging breakfast bags to hand out at their shop, The Cottage. Owner Meredith Simmerman joined the learners to discuss how her business began, and what it means to have a passion and pursue it. Learners even got to make their own flavor of butter to try!

St. Mary Catholic School celebrated World Space Week the week of October 4. To celebrate, St. Mary gave a shout out to Mrs. Camellia Neely for training like an astronaut this summer at Space Camp at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville! St. Mary students are so lucky to have passionate teachers like Mrs. Neely!

Council Traditional School Gives Back

Students and parents unite for a day of giving back! Our CTS community joined forces for an Alabama Coastal Clean Up service project at 3 Mile Creek. Together, we’re making a positive impact on our environment while teaching our students the importance of conservation and teamwork.

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

St. Ignatius Believes Moving the Body Stimulates the Brain

St. Ignatius schedules multiple outside the classroom activities every single day for students. K-8th students go to PE and recess every day. K-8th also goes to a special class every single day of the week rotating between Latin, Art, Music, Library and Computer. The benefit of getting out of the classrooms multiple times each day is monumental for focusing on content inside the classroom. Although St. Ignatius follows a rigorous academic program, students still need to be kids. St. Ignatius enjoys fostering their energy!

JROTC Students Awarded Leadership Positions

Five MCPSS JROTC students have been honored with leadership positions in the Cadet Brigade Command for Mobile County for this school year. Their responsibilities will include organizing JROTC events and competitions throughout the school year. They are:Cadet Brigade Commander – C/LTC Joseph Dixon of Theodore (pictured); Cadet Command Sergeant Major – C/CSM Arlessia Holmes of Williamson; Cadet Deputy Brigade Commander – C/LTC Kaydee Barrera of Baker; Cadet Brigade Operations Officer – C/LTC Valeria Portillo of Murphy; Cadet Brigade Logistics Officer – C/LTC Damien Dixon of Vigor. Congratulations to these exemplary cadets! Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

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Phillips Preparatory’s Lady Pirates’ 16-1 Record

Phillips Preparatory’s Lady Pirates concluded their volleyball season with a remarkable 16-1 record. Despite their undefeated run as division champions, they secured a second-place finish overall. We are so proud of our girls and their coaches, Coach Owens and Coach James for their unwavering dedication and effort throughout the season.

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STEM-sational News from Barton Academy Congratulations to Mrs. Bolton and five of our Barton Explorers for being recognized and awarded prizes through participation in the STEM challenges in the TriNova CCEF STEM event held this fall. Mrs. Bolton also received a $1,000 STEM grant! Way to go, Explorers!

Manners Class at Heart of Mary

During Manners class at Heart of Mary, our students learned the difference between Rules and Protocol as well as how to honor God through our actions and how we treat others.

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Autauga County Schools St. Ignatius Middle House Program Local Students Travel to Washington, D.C. in Support of Inspires Healthy Competition The Middle School Cancer House Mentor Program is inspirational in so Funding

many ways. Joining together 6th-8th grade students to compete on teams together breeds inclusivity, teamwork and social skills. St. Ignatius fosters these character building blocks through many house competitions throughout the school year: theme dress out days, food packing projects, pep rally contests, service projects, and more. Each of the five middle school houses is named after a saint and prioritizes a Catholic virtue. The complete cohesion of academics, religious formation and character development is a path of education that cannot be replicated.

Local students, Bethanny Joy Williams and Cassie Honor Williams, recently had a wonderful opportunity to travel to Washington DC on a very meaningful trip. The girls’ mother, Tiffany Williams, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022 and is now a volunteer with American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. Cassius and Tiffany Williams along with their two daughters traveled to Washington along with over 700 American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network volunteers to ask Congress to support increased funding for Cancer, support Early Detection, and Prostate Cancer . While there, the girls toured the Capitol and met Congressman Jerry Carl. Pictured here are father Cassius Williams, Bethanny Joy and Cassie.

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St. Luke’s Episcopal Bigs/Littles Program

St. Luke’s 8th-grade “bigs” had a blast meeting their “littles” recently. The K5 students were excited to have the older students read with them. It was a fun-filled day spending quality time together, reading books, and talking about their favorite stories. The enthusiasm of the “littles” was palpable, and the “bigs” were delighted to have made such a positive impact on their young friends. This is one of our favorite traditions at St. Luke’s as it’s an excellent opportunity for older students to mentor younger ones. The K5 students benefit from guidance and attention from the “bigs,” while the 8th-grade students get a chance to develop their leadership skills. The Bigs/ Littles Program fosters a sense of community and helps build lasting friendships between students of different ages.

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St. Mary Fourth Grade Learn About Renewable Energy

St. Mary Catholic School 4th grade students learned about renewable resources in October. Students learned how algae is being used for future innovations as a renewable resource. The learning week ended with students growing their own algae! Students will collect samples and observe as they grow. St. Mary Fourth Grade Teacher, Camellia Neely attended an Algae academy over the summer that sent all resources to the class for this project. 17

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Autauga County Schools St. Luke’s Episcopal School Accelerated Reader Pep Rally Senior Privilege Ceremony at Little Flower Catholic

Little Flower Catholic School held a rousing pep-rally for their Accelerated Reader program. They first gave a big shout-out to last year’s top 5 readers. Then there was a big cheer for this year’s fifth grade class and second grade class because both classes have met their goals for the quarter. Way to go, Viking readers!! The theme for the pep rally was, “Chill Out and Read”, so the school topped off the fun with frozen custard which had been donated by Culver’s Restaurant.

Recently, St. Luke’s held a memorable day for the Class of 2024 as they celebrated their Senior Privilege Ceremony. During the event, they wore their class t-shirts and received their St. Luke’s keychains, but what truly made the occasion special was the granting of their “Senior Privileges.” The students were undoubtedly excited by the newfound freedoms bestowed upon them. Mayor Stimpson also graced the ceremony with his presence and delivered a remarkable speech emphasizing the importance of responsibility that comes with privilege. We finished the morning with an excellent reception for students and their parents.

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Emily Newton Recognized as National Merit Semifinalist

Typically, over 1.5 million students in about 21,000 high schools enter the National Merit Scholarship Program each year by taking the PSAT/NMSQT test in the fall of their junior year. In September , officials of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation formally released the names of Semifinalists in the 69th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. CHCA celebrated Emily Newton for her success in being named a National Merit Scholarship semifinalist! Emily is a great ambassador for our school, as she has completed her entire educational experience – 14 years – as a student at Cottage Hill Christian Academy.

The Doctor is IN at Barton Academy

Congratulations to the Barton Media Specialist, Dr. Mary Alice Pouliot! She successfully defended her dissertation on September 19, 2023. It was all about increasing adolescent school library use and reading for pleasure, while spotlighting mental wellness benefits linked with reading, the school library, and interacting with the librarian. She was also awarded the 2023 Herman Moore Memorial LAMP Award by the Alabama Library EXPO Board for outstanding service to Alabama libraries. We are proud and excited to share about Dr. Pouliot’s remarkable achievements! 19

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Autauga County Schools Teamwork makes the Robotic Machine Work at Barton Academy

The Barton Academy Vex V5 league represented well in their first competition at the MCPSS district office. These 7th-9th graders compete in the high school division. The league is cumulative throughout the school year. We are excited to see them grow and accomplish much together! (One is an action shot from the competition, and the other is a group shot upon returning to school.)

Pirate Activity at Little Flower

Miss Lilly’s kindergarteners had fun pretending to act and talk like pirates. Besides their fun costumes and “Arr, Matey” talk, they make cardboard craft parrots to wear on their arms. Letter sounds and counting practice came together to make the pirate festivity complete, especially with Pirate Booty snacks and pieces of eight (gold chocolate pieces)

Revelation Christian Students Welcome Special Visitor

Revelation Christian students received a special visit by Dr. Nina Ford Johnson as our students were studying community helpers. Dr. Johnson is a Pediatrician at Mobile Infirmary Pediatrics. She shared with the students comforting words to help relieve their fears of visiting the doctor. She assured them that her goal as a community helper is to make sure they are healthy and well and help them to feel better when they are sick.

The Field Trip Line-up and More Attend an Art Class

Cypress Grove Academy Builds Ziggurats

A group of homeschoolers from The Field Trip Line-up and More attend an Art Class once a month with Terri Baker at Dauphin Island Heritage and Arts Council. They are learning Sumi-e: The Art of Japanese Ink Painting. During their first class of Sumi-e they learned how to paint bamboo and leaves. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

Cypress Grove third graders are connecting their Bible studies with their ancient history studies as they build the ziggurats of Ur. 20

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St. Ignatius Toy Bowl KING & QUEEN

St. Ignatius is excited to have Toy Bowl royalty for the epic 75 year fundraiser for McGill-Toolen’s CYO organization. This year’s royalty is represented by Queen Anya Hilpert, King George Nappi and Fourth Lady to the Queen Anna Kidder! The Catholic Youth Organization is a wonderful way to bring Catholic youth from the diocese together for spirited competition, friendships and the coveted Toy Bowl trophy. St. Ignatius always competes well in the sporting competitions and is very proud to be champion of the fundraising side this year. St. Ignatius- Forming Leaders in Mind, Body & Spirit.

Phillips Preparatory’s Red Ribbon Leader

Council Traditional School’s Red Ribbon Leader

Congratulations to Rishita Bachu, a Phillips Preparatory 8th-grade student, for being selected as our Red Ribbon Leader. Rishita consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership qualities, and we are incredibly proud to have her represent our school.

Congratulations to Collin Everritt, selected as the Red Ribbon Leader for his exceptional academic excellence and remarkable leadership at Council Traditional School. We look forward to participating in all of the fantastic activities and the community service project that will be led by Collin.

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Autauga County Schools

Green Industry Equipment Rodeo at Bryant CareerTechnical Center

Barton Academy’s Red Ribbon Leader

Mobile County Public Schools students got behind the wheel to operate tractors, excavators, forklifts, zero-turn lawnmowers and more recently at the Green Industry Equipment Rodeo at Bryant Career-Technical Center. “It was a little scary at first, but I really enjoyed it, and it got really fun at the end,” said Bryant High School student Cindy Pena, who operated a skid steer loader for her first time. She used the bucket at the front of the machine to scoop up and move red dirt. “This is something I’m really interested in, and I know a lot of my classmates are as well,” she said. “I’m really grateful they gave us this opportunity. Bryant Career-Technical Center provides hands-on skill instruction, related academics, and opportunities for MCPSS students to earn state and national certifications as they prepare for career success. Bryant hosted the rodeo with support from the Alabama Nursery & Landscape Association, JBT Power, SunSouth, Beard Equipment, the Mobile County office of the Alabama Extension Office, Auburn University – Ornamental Station in Mobile, Big Creek Nursery, Oak Hill Tree Farm, Alabama Community College ACCS Innovation Center, Flowerwood Nursery, and Esfeller Construction.

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Congratulations to Josue Zuniga who was selected to represent Barton Academy at a Red Ribbon Superintendents’ Leadership Program event. Josue displays exceptional leadership at school, in the classroom, and in his extracurriculars on the soccer field. We are proud to have him represent our school!

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CASCADING MUMS THE 60TH ANNUAL DISPLAY NOVEMBER 2023

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

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Heartwood Christian Academy Takes Field Trip to Remember

Heartwood Christian Academy middle school and high school students joined forces in a one-of-a-kind field trip offered by none other than Dauphin Island Sea Lab. It was two field trips in one plus an extra excursion that caused great excitement amongst the staff of the sea lab in addition to the students and parents of Heartwood Christian Academy. The first half of the day was dedicated to learning about buoyancy. Students assembled into teams each building an ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) to field test in DISL’s pool. The mission was a complete success. The afternoon was filled with a bus ride which is quite a treat for homeschooled students followed by kayaking on the North shore. Students rowed in tandem kayaks along the waters learning about several species indicative of the area. As we were returning from the North Shore, our instructor received word that the flamingos could be seen from the Dauphin Island Country Club. So, we decided to add a side trip to our already amazing field trip. Thanks to the dedicated bird watchers on the island, we were able to see three adorable flamingos that appeared quite content on foreign land, as these birds are not inhabitants of Dauphin Island. This field trip will go down as one of the highlights of the 2023-2024 school year!

Corpus Christi Catholic School Red Ribbon Leader

Congratulations to Corpus Christi Catholic School 8th grader, Amelia Schwarz, who was selected for our Red Ribbon Leadership Award. Red Ribbon Week, a week devoted to learning how to live a healthy and drug-free life, will be celebrated October 23rd27th. Each fall, Red Ribbon Week is celebrated across America to promote the importance of a healthy, drug-free lifestyle among our youth. As part of the awareness program, the Drug Education Council, Inc honors outstanding students from Mobile and Baldwin County who are selected by their schools as the Red Ribbon Leadership Award recipient. These students exemplify the 6 pillars of Character promoted by the Character Counts initiative and the Drug Education Council. These include trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.

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Autauga County Schools The Field Trip Line-up and More Celebrate Spirit Month

Homeschoolers from The Field Trip Line-up and More celebrated Spirit Month. Their Spirit Month included Decades Day, Crazy Sock/Hair/Hat Day, Where’s Waldo Day, and Western Day. They had a field trip every Friday so they could share Spirit Month with their friends. They ended Spirit Month with a Homecoming Dance.

Corpus Christi Choir Sings at the Cathedral-Basilica of The Immaculate Conception

Corpus Christi Middle School Choir was recently invited by Msgr. Skoneki to sing at the Daily Mass at the CathedralBasilica of The Immaculate Conception. This was such an honor and wonderful experience for our students. Thank you to our choir directors, Miss Caitlyn DeMouy and Mrs. Sharon Finn, your musical direction has lifted the hearts of so many.

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St. Dominic Celebrates Community Helper Week

Kindergarten and First grade students celebrated Community Helper Week with our firefighter friends. They learned about fire safety from our visitors and were able to see inside the firetrucks and ambulances. St. Dominic Catholic School appreciates all of our first responders.

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Grandparents Day at Council Traditional

Grandparents Day at Council Traditional School was a heartwarming celebration filled with laughter, love, and cherished moments. Our picnic brought generations together, while the bookfair ignited a shared passion for storytelling. Memories were made, stories were shared, and a bond between students and their grandparents grew even stronger.

Mobile Christian Students Learn All About Bees

Mobile Christian’s 3rd grade class enjoyed a visit from the BeeKeeper of Honey Hill. They learned all about bees.

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

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L Autauga County Schools

McGill Students Participate in Coastal Cleanup

Three UMS-Wright Students Named National Merit Semi-Finalists

Members of the McGill-Toolen Catholic Green Club spent their Saturday morning picking up trash and recyclable material around the entrance to Dog River. The Green Club is just one of many organizations at McT that offer opportunities for our students to give back to their community.

1.3 million Juniors in 21,000 high schools nationwide entered the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Qualifying Test. Out of the 1.3 million students, 16,000 were chosen as semi-finalists, and we are thrilled to announce that Jerrick Phan, Nathan Martin & Ish Chakroborty (L to R) were chosen from UMS-Wright! Jerrick, Nathan, and Ish will now have the opportunity to advance in the competition for National Merit Scholarships valued in excess of $28 million dollars. Please join us in congratulating these students on such an outstanding accomplishment!

ASMS Student and ASMS Biology Teacher Discover 30-Million-Year-Old Fossil

An ASMS student and her biology teacher recently discovered a 30-million-year-old fossil whale skeleton on a farm owned by the student’s family in Monroe County, about 80 miles north of Mobile, AL. The whale, which could be 20 feet long, will take at least three to four years to excavate and could be a firstof-its-kind find in Alabama. Lindsey Stallworth, now a junior at the Alabama School of Math and Science (ASMS) in Mobile, AL, has been collecting fossils on her family’s land for as long as she can remember. “We would go out and pick up shark teeth and fossil shells, but we never knew anyone that could tell us anything about them,” said Stallworth. “We just thought they were cool.” Fortunately, one of the biology faculty members at ASMS, Dr. Andrew Gentry, is a paleontologist who has studied Alabama fossils since childhood. He is part of a distinguished three-member department at the school, and just last year, Gentry made headlines for leading the research into a previously unknown species of giant freshwater turtle that inhabited the state during the time of the dinosaurs. Gentry, Lindsey, and a few helpers spent most of June and July carefully excavating the fossilized remains and transporting them back to ASMS’s newly renovated Makerspace, where students and faculty collaborate on projects while sharing ideas, equipment, and knowledge. Thanks to a unique ASMS Research Fellows Program available to high-achieving students at ASMS, Lindsey can now work alongside Dr. Gentry in cleaning, repairing, and studying the fossil whale. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

St. Mary Creates Zentangle Pumpkins

At St. Mary Catholic School, Fall means it is time for all things pumpkins! Under the instruction of St. Mary’s art teacher, Mrs. Charlotte Fibbe, third graders created Zentangle pumpkins in the Mastro Art House! www.mobilebayparents.com

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Lunch Bag Book Reports at St. Dominic Catholic School

Seven MCPSS Students Named as National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

Who says book reports are boring? Not 5th grade students at St.Dominic Catholic School. They enjoyed making lunch bag book reports for their class using their art, writing and comprehension skills.

Seven Mobile County Public Schools seniors have been recognized this year as National Merit Scholarship semifinalists. They are: Shahir Latif, Stan Blejwas,

Graham West and Linden Berte from Davidson; Henry Bylinowski and Reagan Baggett of Baker; and Marc Leyk of Murphy. These students were entered into this program by taking the PSAT/ NMSTQ during their junior year. The nationwide pool of semifinalists represents less than 1 percent of U.S. high school seniors who earned the highest scores on the PSAT/NMSTQ exam during their junior year.

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Autauga County Schools St. Luke’s Episcopal Physics Students Take to the Streets St. Luke’s physics classes took it to the streets to learn about velocity and acceleration. Some students rode on the Razor scooter and others calculated the times. The students will use their data to calculate the rate of acceleration and deceleration by analyzing the slopes of lines graphed on a velocity-time graph.

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Phillips Preparatory IB Learner Profile

Phillips Preparatory IB Learner Profile highlight for the month was “Balanced.” Our standout student for this trait is Cayleigh Humphrey, a remarkable 8th grade student, recognized by her teachers. Additionally, kudos to Mr. Steven Faralli, our 6th-grade Individuals and Societies teacher, and Mrs. Kristen James, our 8th-grade Science teacher, who were both acknowledged by their students.

Grandparent’s Day at CHCA

In September, CHCA celebrated Grandparent’s Day! Thank you, grandparents and grandfriends for the wisdom, love, and laughter you bring to our lives! You truly are the foundation of our families!

Clark-Shaw Level 4 Students Invited on Special Field Trip

Clark-Shaw Magnet School students work hard to succeed, and we wanted to celebrate those who achieved a Level 4 on at least two ACAP subject tests last year. These students were invited on a surprise field trip to WonderWorks in Panama City, Florida during 1st quarter. We are extremely proud of our Eagles soaring to excellence in all areas!

Murphy High IB Senior Documentary Shown in Oprah Winfrey Theatre of the National Museum of African American History

Congratulations to Murphy High School IB senior Ddwayne Lockett-James. This summer, Ddwayne’s documentary on how the Alabama Dry Dock & Shipping Company impacted the city of Mobile was selected as one of 17 documentaries (out of 100 total entries) to be shown in the Oprah Winfrey Theatre of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. His documentary was also selected by the 400 Years of African American History Commission to be featured in a five-part docuseries created by the organization! His documentary is included in Part One. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

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McGillToolen New Traditions

St. Dominic Catholic School Students Study Monarch Butterflies

Thanks to the McGillToolen Catholic class of 2023 this year’s seniors got to start the new tradition of painting the cannon following a McT victory over Murphy High School. The Jackets won 42-0 in the states oldest rivalry game.

5th grade students at St. Dominic Catholic School are studying the migration of Monarch butterflies through the Mobile area. A butterfly release was held at our school and some of the butterflies didn’t seem to want to leave.

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Three CHCA Students Recognized by High School Honors Performance Series

Cottage Hill students, Skylar Shreves, Elouise Hays, Gracie Mills, and Emma Rose Tillman, auditioned and were selected as finalists for the 2024 High School Honors Performance Series. Elouise, Gracie, and Emma Rose will have the opportunity to perform in Carnegie Hall. Skylar received the opportunity to travel to London, England at the Royal Festival Hall. This selection is a result of talent, dedication, and achievements demonstrated in their application. We are proud of these girls!

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Autauga County Schools McDavid-Jones Elementary and Pathway Donate to Food Drive

Students at McDavid-Jones Elementary and Pathway recently held cereal food drives for Feeding the Gulf Coast. McDavid-Jones collected a total of 564 boxes, while Pathway donated 100. Congratulations!

Hands on Science at St. Dominic Catholic School St. Dominic Catholic School 7th graders enjoyed the beautiful weather on our outdoor verandas and showed their knowledge of plant and

animal cells. Hands on science is fun!

Causey and Lott Middles Schools Win Championships!

Congratulations to Causey and Lott middle schools, which won the large school and small school county volleyball championships, respectively.

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

Heart of Mary is Thankful For Their Board Volunteers

We are always thankful to Mrs. Gina Finnegan, our Heart of Mary School board member, who volunteers to teach Spanish to our PreK2nd grade students. Allowing them to expand their linguistic capabilities. Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

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UMS-Wright Students Celebrate Community Helpers Week

UMS students celebrated Community Helpers Week in September, so Deputy Humphrey and Deputy Seals spoke about their roles with the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office as well as being full-time Campus Safety & Security Officers at UMS-Wright. The Security Team is led by Campus Safety & Security Director Garrett Humphrey (stationed in the Upper School) and he is assisted by Associate Director of Campus Safety Deputy Thomas Robb (stationed in the Middle School) and Associate Director of Campus Safety Deputy Chrissy Seals (stationed in the Lower School). We are so fortunate to have these three individuals who bring experience, knowledge and preparedness to our campus each and every day!

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Mobile Christian Receives Community Career Education Forum Grant

A huge thank you to TriNova, Inc.!! MCS was awarded the 2023 Community Career Education Forum Grant to support STEM education. We also would like to congratulate John McGilberry and Gradon Normand who both won door prizes at TriNova’s CCEF event last week! picture included.

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Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

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Some studies show that laughing has real health benefits. These benefits include increasing the circulation of antibodies in the bloodstream, reducing stress hormones and pain, as well as improving general mood. We could all use an extra dose of laughter!

The benefits of laughter

Yes, cardio and a good workout will help your heart. But did you know that when you laugh, your heart rate increases? Heavier laughter causes deeper breaths. Taking deeper breaths increases your heart rate even more. It might not be a rigorous 7-mile run, but it’s something! A few boisterous laughs to help prevent heart disease? Yes, please. The benefits of laughter aren’t just limited to heart health, though. Laughing can help keep us healthy in many ways. According to the Mayo Clinic’s article “Stress relief from laughter? It’s no joke,” laughter has both long-term and short-term benefits.

Short-term benefits of laughter:

Relieves tension. Activates and relieves your stress response. Stimulates organs.

6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 christunited.com

Laughter is beneficial to us right now, so get to it! Laughing in your day-to-day activities can help relieve your stress and tension. It can even help in relationships and in the workplace.

easy to forget to laugh and have fun with our kids. We’re all guilty of it. Let’s make some intentional time to laugh with them every day. Check out these helpful ways to gear up the giggles.

Long-term benefits of laughter:

Ways to laugh more with our kids:

Improves your mood. Helps heart health. Helps with pain relief. Increases satisfaction. Benefits mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.

The long-term benefits of laughing are impactful. Laughing more benefits us not just physically, but mentally too. It helps us live in a more fulfilling way and truly helps contribute to a better quality of life.

Kids and benefits of laughter

Kids are always laughing. And we parents can facilitate even more of it. It’s easy to get caught up in the mundane of parenthood—work, chores, errands, cleaning, maintaining a house and family—and forget how important having fun and letting loose with our kids is. Even though it’s the most basic practice, laughter doesn’t always come as easily to parents as it does to kids. It’s

Buy a joke book. Try silly challenges. See who can make the silliest faces. Play tickle monster. See who can make the best accent. Guess that sound/smell. Watch a funny video. See who can keep a straight face the longest. Play charades. Do some silly tongue-twisters. Take silly pictures.

In the age of technology, we have plenty of access to filters and ways to alter pictures. Kids usually think silly phone filters are pretty hilarious. Adults, too. Can you lick your elbow? Or figure out what someone is saying with a mouth full of marshmallows? These things may sound silly, but that’s the point! Let loose. Make funny faces or noises. Don’t be afraid to be silly with your kids. After all, it’s good for you!

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Does laughter have to be genuine to be beneficial?

Studies show even fake laughing can bring the benefits of actually laughing. In fact, more often than not, fake laughing leads to genuine smiles. Even if you’re just being supportive of a cheesy joke. The muscles used to smile or laugh tell our brain to feel those things. So much so that even a forced smile can trick our brains. Even if our brain doesn’t realize we’re just pretending, it still reaps the health benefits of actual laughter. In this case, fake it till you make it, right?

How to laugh more

By now, you know that laughter is really some excellent medicine. You know ways we can laugh more with our kids, and that laughter really has some power to make us feel happier, healthier and more at ease. But especially on days we don’t want to, how can we laugh more?

Be intentional

Tell yourself that you’re going to laugh out loud at least once a day then make it happen. And remember, even if you have to fake it, that still counts.

Ask a friend to help

Chances are you’re not alone in your struggle to laugh more. Don’t feel silly! Make a plan or a pact with a friend to check in with each other on how your goal to laugh more is going. Maybe even make a plan to do your laughing together.

Start with a smile

Are you getting dressed for the morning? Do it smiling. In the grocery store? Smile at three people. Waiting for the microwave? Smile at your reflection. It may feel silly, but smiling is the gateway to laughter—and you have to start somewhere!

Spend some time watching other people being funny

Instead of just scrolling your social media feed, try watching a funny video. Search for some stand-up comedy routines and watch those. Some people make a living being funny so that you’ll laugh more.

Be more present

Most of the time, there are funny things happening around us. Maybe we just miss them. So put down your phone. Take some deep breaths. Dinner and chores will still be there waiting. Enjoy where you’re at and be ready and willing to laugh— with your kids, at your dog, over a stranger (Just maybe don’t tell them you’re laughing at them—that’d be embarrassing!). The world is full of things that make us smile. Notice those things. They could even make you healthier in more ways than one! MBP

Kailyn Rhinehart writes from Warrensburg, Missouri. She lives with her husband and two small children and could definitely stand to laugh a little more.

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

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

Theaters

Rating PG-13

Overall B-

Violence C-

Sex A

Profanity C-

Alcohol/Drugs A-

The US is at war with artificial life forms and those countries that refuse to ban them. An American secret agent is tasked with finding “The Creator”, an unknown individual responsible for covertly developing new types of Artificial Intelligence. When the Creator turns out to be a child, big questions about technology, ethics, and militarism come to the fore. This is a thoughtful, immersive sci-fi flick with an intriguing story. Violence is frequent with a high body count and little blood; there is also a fair bit of moderate profanity. Photo ©20th Century Studios

Spy Kids: Armageddon

Netflix

Rating PG

Overall B

Violence B

Sex A

Profanity A

Alcohol/Drugs A

Breaking the family rules, Tony downloads an unapproved video game, thereby giving an evil game developer access to his parents’ systems. They are spies so their computer contains vital information, including a secret code called Armageddon that permits access to any device on the planet. Now Tony and his sister Patty must save the world’s technology. This movie is less well written than others in the franchise but young-viewers will still enjoy the fun gadgets and kid-based action. Parents, on the other hand, can use it as a sleep aid. Photo ©Netflix

On Fire

Theaters

Rating PG-13

Overall B-

Violence B-

Sex A

Profanity C-

Alcohol/Drugs B-

When a wildfire unexpectedly jumps a nearby canyon, the Laughlins find their evacuation route blocked by flames. It’s going to take courage, ingenuity, loyalty, and determined first responders to save this family. Given the unpredictable path of the fire, it’s disappointing that there are so few surprises in the family’s emotional journey: the only real surprise is that a movie with a Christian vibe features profanity in the script. The cinematography is good, but overall this movie fails to rise above being merely adequate. Photo ©Cineverse

Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie

Theaters

Rating PG

Overall A-

Violence A-

Sex A

Profanity A

Alcohol/Drugs A

Long dedicated to protecting the people of Adventure City, the pups of PAW Patrol have new abilities – superpowers caused by a meteor’s crystals. Now they must prevent an evil scientist and corrupt mayor from using the crystals to become supervillains. This film is exactly what pint-sized fans of the TV series want. The jokes are pre-school friendly, the peril is minor, and the plot is easy to follow. The simple messages about self-worth, teamwork, and resilience are aimed directly at the target audience and will be appreciated by parents. Photo ©Paramount Pictures

The Blind

Theaters

Rating PG-13

Overall B

Violence B-

Sex A-

Profanity B-

Alcohol/Drugs D

After a hardscrabble childhood in rural Louisiana, Phil Robertson has married a supportive wife and graduated from college. Then he starts drinking and nearly loses everything he values. Only religious conversion and his lifelong tie to the woods and rivers can bring him back to a life of sobriety and, ultimately, financial success as the patriarch of the Duck Dynasty family. This Christian film is better than most of the genre and offers universal messages about the dangers of addiction and the power of family, faith, love, and hope. Photo ©Fathom Events Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com 36

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Should I Create a SmallBusiness Budget? Q. I know when it comes to personal finance, you’re a big fan of living on a written, monthly budget. Should you do a small-business budget the same way you do your household budget?

A. The concept you’re working with is the same, but they’re still a little bit different. When it comes to a small business, you’re trying to project your income and expenses, thereby projecting your profit for the month and the next two months after that. Those three months make what we call a quarter. If you’ve been in business for a while, you can reach out further than that and usually do a reasonably accurate job of projecting the entire year. It all really just comes down to this: You still have to plan your income and your outgo. Some small-business owners

tend to forego long-term planning and live hand to mouth and crisis to crisis. Sure, they may look at the profit and loss statements, but that’s kind of like looking in the rearview mirror while driving. Budgeting’s not rocket science. The budgeting and planning don’t have to be super sophisticated, as long you’re realistic about how much revenue you’re generating and your operating costs. A lack of planning and handling money properly— making money behave by projecting revenue, expenses and those kinds of things—are the main reasons most small businesses fail. Then, the owners turn around and blame “cash flow problems.” That’s a pretty vague term, and in most cases, it’s

a bunch of double-talk. It’s usually coming from someone who borrowed money and couldn’t make the payments or had too much money going out and not enough coming in. You’ve got to project into the future and think about what you’re going to do and how you’re going to make it happen. That’s really all a smallbusiness budget is. You’re saying, “Realistically, this is what we should make this month, and this is what we should spend this month.” It’s what I tell my team when they’re doing budgets. And when you think about it, it’s not even goal setting so much as it’s having a knowledgeable and informed conversation with the marketplace.

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One of my favorite childhood stories is Laura Ingalls Wilder’s account of the Christmas when Mr. Edwards braved a snowstorm to bring gifts to the family. He had sweet potatoes for Ma in one pocket, and gifts for Laura and Mary in another—a tin cup for each of them, plus a penny and a peppermint stick. The girls were thrilled. Would our children be content with such simple gifts today? Not likely. It’s a challenge to raise thankful children in our consumer-driven culture, but it’s a challenge we can meet. We can train our children in the fine art of having enough.

Plant the Seeds: Teach your values

Projects for Your Generous Family Allow children to do chores to earn money for the purpose of giving to a worthy cause. Adopt a needy family through a local agency and meet their holiday needs. Work as a family to earn money to donate to a specific family-selected charity. Make the decision to sort through old clothing, toys and other possessions to “pare down” possessions and live with less. Take the entire family to a shelter or group home and help serve a meal. Choose to provide a snack or meal to a homeless person you pass on the roadways each day. Decide how to spend vacation time with an

philosophy of family life. It was, “We’re rich in love.” The children knew we gave gifts to those less fortunate. They knew we had enough to share with others in times of need. The message they received was the truth––we had all we needed and enough left over to be generous. We were content. What true stories of simpler times do you have to share with your kids?

Feed and Prune: Model a Thankful Lifestyle

Children may learn by hearing stories, but they’ll take to heart the things they see with their own eyes and actually experience. Have a family meeting and talk about the choices you make. Explain why you make certain purchases, what you give to others and why you shop for bargains. Why do you choose certain family activities and not others? When do you refrain from spending? Does fun always require spending a lot of money? Are there opportunities for your family to give time or money to help others? Model the decision-making process and include the children.

Agree on the values you emphasis on enjoying one another without wish to teach your children excess financial drain. and encourage them in everyday living—in work and Regularly plan family fun times including play and how you spend your games, music, food, work projects and other time. Those lessons begin in inter-generational or extended family activities. the nursery and continue to adulthood. In the book Just At meal times make it a point to discuss the Moms, Conveying Justice in “fine art of having enough.” What does it look an Unjust World, Marta Oti like in real life? What are the distinctions Sears writes about a project between wants and needs? her seven-year-old daughter took on one Christmas. The year before, she’d participated in a project to give a farm animal to a needy community overseas but this year, said her Reap the Reward: A Thankful daughter, “I want to give the whole farm!” The whole farm was a Family in Action group of animals costing in excess of $2000. Marta outlines her The benefit of careful planting, watering and pruning is family’s journey through, “Can we really do it?” to “Yes, we did it a healthy family with thankful children. You’ll have kids who with the help of friends and family.” You can bet the family had understand life beyond their own wants and needs. A thankful planted those seeds in their daughter’s heart at an early age and heart doesn’t just happen, it’s taught over time. Living out the as a result they’ll all treasure the memory forever. values of a thankful heart in day to day family life isn’t easy in our consumer-driven world. We have to say no to the want-more, have-more cycles so many families embrace. But we can do it, Water: Tell Your Stories because it’s the right thing to do. So go ahead and plant, water, Most of us have stories from our family’s history documentfeed and prune. Your family will thrive when you teach them to ing a much simpler lifestyle. My father received only one gift his have thankful hearts. MBP entire childhood. It was a sled made by his father. His was a North Dakota farm family working hard to make a simple living, and gifts were not expected. Knowing his father took the time to make the sled for him made it more than special. When my own children had questions about the concepts of rich and poor we came up with a saying that covered our

Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a freelance writer and retired teacher. She specializes in education and family life articles. Jan is the author of Homegrown Readers: Simple Ways to Help Your Child Learn to Read available online at Barnes and Noble and Amazon. Find her at www.janpierce.net.

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Holidays at OWA ad on Inside Front Cover

@ OWA 1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535 Enjoy the holidays this season with a variety of ways to celebrate throughout OWA! Stop by Downtown OWA for some holiday shopping and family entertainment with Brandon Styles Variety and Magic Shows, as well as his new Christmas Murder Mystery Dinner Show, Ho Ho Homicide on December 7th and 8th. Also, check out the great musical events at the OWA Theater, including Ella and Louis Sing Christmas, a tribute to Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald. (251) 923-2111 www.VisitOWA.com

November 1, 2023

A Service of Hope ad on page 33

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 You are special in the eyes of God and are invited to attend the Service of Hope, a special service to help us prepare ourselves for the coming holidays and support those of us who struggle during this season. If you have had a loved one die, we encourage you to bring a picture of them to place on the table of remembrance. Let us come together to lay our hurt and sorrow at the foot of the cross and bask in the warmth of God’s light and love. Join us for dinner in the Christ Cafe at 5:00pm and service in the Christ Center Gym at 6:30pm. Please visit christunited. com/serviceofhope for more information. (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com

November 3-4, 2023 Christmas in the Bayou Shopping Spectacular

@ Bayou La Batre Community Center 12745 Padgett Switch Road Irvington, AL 36544 We will have a large variety of vendors to shop with, food/coffee trucks, a silent auction as well as pictures with Santa AND Princess Beauty. Nov. 3-5pm-9pm, Nov. 4-10am-4pm (251) 824-7918

November 4, 2023 Toys for Tots Motorcycle Ride

@ USS Battleship Memorial Parkway 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL 36602 Toys For Tots will kick-off their holiday camMobile Bay Parents I November 2023

paign at Battleship Memorial Park with the popular Motorcycle Ride. Registration begins at 10:00am. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the toy drive. (251) 402-9147 www.ussalabama.com/events/

November 5, 2023 Annual Merry Mart

@ Our Savior Catholic Church 1801 Cody Road South Mobile, AL 36695 Visitors can enjoy holiday shopping, lunch and fun under one roof--finding the perfect gift for everyone on their list. Children can shop The Santa Shop. 12:00pm-4:00pm (251) 633-6762 www.oursaviorparish.org

November 7, 2023 Trees for Hope

@ Dauphin Way Baptist Church Gym 3661 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36608 Kick off the holiday season, browsing and bidding on wonderfully decorated Christmas trees and wreaths and enjoying fun and fellowship, all while helping to support children and families in our care. Time: 6:00pm (251) 463-8280 www.treesforhopeevent.org/

Weekends and select event dates; November 10-December 24, 2023 Photos with Santa at The Wharf

@ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Ho Ho Holiday photo time with Santa at The Wharf! Children can also bring their wish list letters to give to the Jolly Claus or write one in his village. Open Fridays (3-6 pm), Saturdays (10am– 6pm) and Sunday (noon–6pm). Times subject to change. (251) 224-1000

www.alwharf.com

November 10-12, 2023 Junior League of Mobile Christmas Jubilee

@ Mobile Convention Center 1 South Water Street Mobile, AL 36602 Kick off your holiday shopping and support your community at Junior League of Mobile’s annual Christmas Jubilee. November 10–11am-7pm, November 11–11am-6pm, November 12– 10am-5pm. www.juniorleaguemobile.org

November 11, 2023 Living History Day at Colonial Fort Conde @ Colonial Fort Condé 150 S Royal St Mobile, AL 36602 10:00am-3:00pm. FREE admission-Experience the 18th century at Colonial Fort Condé as history is brought to life through the demonstration of everyday activities of Mobile’s past. In addition to stations teaching about daily life, there will also be musket and sword fighting demonstrations every hour as well as our local chapter of the Society of American Period Furniture Makers. (251) 208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Turkey 10-Miler, 10K & 5K Run / Walk

@ River Delta Marina 2350 Dead Lake Marina Rd Creola, AL 36525 Benefiting Creola Police & Rescue, the River Delta Marina and local food banks. Please bring canned or packaged non-perishable food to the race or consider a monetary donation to the food banks. www.portcitypacers.com

November 16–19, 2023 Christmas Spectacular 2023

@ Cottage Hill Baptist Church 4255 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, AL 36609 With over 20 ensembles and featuring over 200 students with a 50-piece orchestra of combined students and professional mentors, you will experience an inspiring musical extravaganza that will stir your heart as you experience the joy of Christmas. (251) 442-2383 https://asota.umobile.edu/christmas/

November 17, 2023 The Lighting of the Trees

@ Mardi Gras Park 109 Government Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join the City of Mobile for a night of cheer as we light up the night and celebrate the start of the holiday season! This free family-friendly event will include a Live DJ, Christmas Crafts, Photo Opportunities, Santa Claus, and so much more. 5:30pm-9pm (251) 208-1551 www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/ events/lighting-of-the-tree-2023

November 17, 2023-January 1, 2024 Christmas Nights In Lights @ Mobile International Speedway 7800 Park Blvd. Mobile, AL 36544 Guests will enjoy a magical and an immersive

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experience from the convenience of their own vehicle. This dazzling drive-through showcase is over 1.5 miles and features over one million lights fully synchronized to holiday classics right on your car radio. Visit our website for more information. (251) 525-9915 www.nightsinlights.com

Select Days and Times November 17, 2023 - January 15, 2024 Ice Skating Rink @ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Let us bring winter to you! Grab a pair of skates and glide, spin or fall into the season on real ice. Special hours apply for holidays and school breaks. Visit alwharf.com for more details and ticketing. (251) 224-1000

www.alwharf.com

November 18, 2023

ad on Inside Front Cover

@ OWA 1501 South OWA Boulevard (Downtown OWA) Foley, AL 36535 Kick off the holiday season at OWA with activities all day for children and adults, culminating in a countdown to the holiday tree lighting and fireworks show to kick off the Christmas season. Activities will begin in Downtown OWA at 3pm with the popular Excelsior Band parading through the streets of Downtown OWA, followed by a dance performance with the children of Magnolia Dance Company performing choreographed dances to holiday tunes. Then get ready for the countdown to the holiday tree lighting and fireworks show beginning at 7pm. The fun continues with snow falling in Downtown OWA and photos with the Jolly man himself, Santa Claus. For more information, visit our website.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

(251) 923-2111

@ Mobile Civic Center Theatre 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL 36602 Cirque Dreams Holidaze dazzles with a brilliant and whimsical family holiday spectacular. This annual tradition wraps a Broadway-style production around an infusion of contemporary circus arts. As lights dim and the music swells, audiences will have visions of sugarplums dancing in their heads as a fantastical cast of holiday storybook characters come to life. 12pm, 4pm. Visit our website for more information.

Christmas Market and Tree Lighting in Semmes

ad on page 7

(251) 208-7906 www.asmglobalmobile.com

www.VisitOWA.com

(251) 649-8811

www.cityofsemmes.org

bellingrath.org

@ Mardi Gras Park Mobile, AL 36602 Rapahope would like to invite you to join us in the area’s largest Thanksgiving Day tradition–Turkey Trot for Hope. www.rapahope.org/fundraising/turkeytrot-7z6r8-mlz9f

November 24 - December 24, 2023 Arctic Express at Wales West Light Railway

@ Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL 36576 Authentic steam train ride to the North Pole, through decorations, lights, and snow! Santa visit, Toy, Free Refreshments, Minitrain rides, Hayless Hayride, Potato Cannon, Cafe, Gift Shop, Concessions. Fri’s, Sat’s, Sun’s, 4pm9pm, Nightly starting Dec. 13, 4pm-9pm. Reservations online. (251) 232-2322

www.waleswest.com

November 24, 2023 - January 3, 2024

@ Semmes Library 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL 36575 Come out and enjoy a full day of shopping from local vendors from 9am-7pm. The Tree Lighting Program will take place from 4:30-7:00 p.m. At the lighting, people can shop from vendors, visit with Santa, and enjoy local entertainment. Free family event. Call or visit our website for more information.

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November 23, 2023 Turkey Trot for Hope 5K & Gobble Wobble Fun Run

Holiday Tree Lighting at OWA

Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens ad on page 22 and 41

@ Bellingrath Gardens and Home 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL 36582 Join us for the 28th season. You will stroll through a dazzling light display throughout the 65-acre Garden estate. In addition, the Bellingrath Home is decorated in its holiday finery and enhanced with beautiful poinsettias. (251) 973-2217 www.bellingrath.org

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November 25, 2023 Outdoor Holiday Market

our website for more information. Friday 9:00am– 3:00pm and Saturday 9:00am-1:00pm

@ Downtown Mobile Mobile, AL 36602 Head to Downtown Mobile around Cathedral Square and shop local small businesses this holiday season! 12pm-4pm

(251) 342-0555 www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org/ event/a-holiday-market-in-the-gardens/

(251) 208-1551

Breakfast with Santa

www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

November 27, 2023 SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Tree Lighting

@ Tillman’s Corner Community Center 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL 36619 SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Tree Lighting will be held from 5:306:30pm (251) 666-2488

www.swmcchamber.com

December 1 - December 24, 2023 Santa- Shoppes at Bel Air

@ Shoppes at Bel Air 3299 Joe Treadwell Dr. Mobile, AL 36608 Santa visits and pictures at the Shoppes at Bel Air. Please visit our website for more information. www.shoppesatbelair.com

December 1, 2023 VIP Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa

@ SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL 36619 SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce VIP Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa -Tickets must be purchased in advance. Time 6:30pm8:30pm. (251) 666-2488

www.swmcchamber.com

Roll Mobile - Holiday Edition

@ Bienville Square Mobile, AL 36602 We are turning all of Bienville Square into an outdoor roller skating rink. Entrance to the skating event is free! Come on out, listen to the LIVE DJ, and skate the square with us. Dress up as your Favorite Winter Holiday Character and snap pics at our holiday ops. 6-9pm (251) 208-1551

www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Mobile Symphony Youth Orchestra “Holiday Concert”

@ Foley Civic Center 407 East Laurel Avenue Foley, AL 36535 The child musicians are sure to move audiences with sounds of the Christmas season. 7:00pm. (251) 943-1545 www.mobilesymphony.org

Semmes Old Fashioned Christmas

@ Semmes Heritage Park 3871 Wulff Road Semmes, AL 36575 Old Fashioned Christmas will take place at Semmes Heritage Park from 5:00-8:00 p.m. The community will enjoy this small more personal look at what Christmas was like years ago. There will be music, story time, and refreshments. This is a free family event. www.cityofsemmesal.gov

December 1-2, 2023 A Holiday Market in the Gardens

@ Mobile Botanical Gardens 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, AL 36608 Get your Holiday shopping done at this fun event and buy local products. New this year – we are having a Gingerbread competition and display-visit Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

December 2 - 23, 2023 (Select Dates and times) ad on Inside Front Cover

@ OWA 1501 South OWA Blvd Foley AL 36535 Enjoy a special Breakfast with Santa experience and create a magical Christmas craft with friends this Christmas season. Select dates this holiday season at The Bohemian in Downtown OWA. Guests can dine with Santa and enjoy a delectable breakfast spread. Reservations can be made online at VisitOWA.com. Hours and dates for all activities are subject to change. (251) 923-2111

www.VisitOWA.com/

The North Pole Experience ad on Inside Front Cover

@ OWA 1501 South OWA Blvd Foley AL 36535 1:00 – 4:00pm and 5:00-7:00. Join in the free North Pole Experience that takes guests into Santa’s workshop. Come warm up with some of Santa’s favorite hot chocolate and cookies and take photos with Santa himself. Santa will be in the North Pole for a meet and greet with guests, and Santa’s Elves will help you create Christmas-themed crafts. (251) 923-2111 www.VisitOWA.com/Christmas

December 2, 2023 Breakfast with the Grinch

@ Steele Creek 368 Juniper Ave Satsuma , AL 36572 Join us for the Breakfast With The Grinch. 8:30am. Tickets on sale online. www.cityofsatsuma.com

Satsuma Christmas Arts & Crafts Festival

@ Baldwin Square Satsuma, AL 36572 Starting at 11am. www.cityofsatsuma.com

@ SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL 36619 Kids 12 and under FREE/parents $5 for pancake breakfast and photos with Santa. 8am-10am www.swmcchamber.com

Mobile’s Singing Children Christmas Concert

@ Spring Hill Chapel Mobile, AL 36608 7:00pm. www.mobilesingingchildren.org

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade @ W.C. Griggs Elementary School 6001 Three Notch Road Mobile, AL 36619 Parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. (251) 666-2488

Satsuma , AL 36572 Join us for our Christmas Tree Light at 5pm and Christmas parade at 6pm. www.cityofsatsuma.com

December 2 - 3, 2023 Classical Ballet of Mobile presents The Nutcracker

@ Murphy High School 100 S Carlen St Mobile, AL 36606 Classical Ballet of Mobile is thrilled to be bringing The Nutcracker to Mobile audiences on two days this season. December 2-6:30pm, December 3-2pm. www.classicalballetmobile.org

St. Lawrence Christmas Bazaar

@ St. Lawrence Church 370 South Section Street Fairhope, AL 36532 Silent auction with virtual bidding option, vendor booths, bake sale, handcrafted gift baskets, and Christmas Cafe. Unique art and antiques for purchase. Live Bluegrass Christmas music Saturday and pictures with Santa! We’ll have Gumbo, candied nuts and apples, baked goods, and homemade casseroles to go. Saturday and Sunday from 9:00am-3:00pm. (251) 928-5931 bazaar@stlawrencefairhope.com www.stlawrencechristmasbazaar.com

Christmas Boutique Bash

@ The Grounds 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL 36608 Christmas In July Boutique Bash is a fantastic weekend of shopping, food, and fun! Enjoy shopping many boutiques and businesses.

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December 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23, 2023 Holiday Market-Mobile Flea Market @ Mobile Flea Market 401 Schillinger Road North Mobile, AL 36608 The Holiday Market is the perfect place to shop for the entire family. Great deals on new, used, and handmade items. You are sure to find something for everyone. (251) 633-7533 www.mobilefleamarket.com

SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce Santa Breakfast

(251) 666-2488

Satsuma Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade

www.swmcchamber.com

Dauphin Island Christmas Parade

Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Dauphin Island Christmas Parade at 11:00am. www.dauphinislandchamberofcommerce.com

December 3, 2023

Live Nativity at Christ United ad on page 33

@ Christ United Campus 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Join us as we celebrate the Christmas season, by traveling through the story of Jesus’ birth. Enjoy the real-life scene of Bethlehem and experience what it was like the night baby Jesus was born with live character portrayals of Mary, Joseph, shepherds, wise men, angels and live animals. Go to christunited.com/livenativity to connect your phone and car radio to our Live Nativity narration. Visit christmasinmobile.com for details. Time: 4:00pm-7:00pm (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com/

Bella Voce - Christmas Concert

@ St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 4051 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36608 Bella Voce of Mobile, Mobile’s Premiere Women’s Chorus, presents our Christmas Gift concert at 4:00pm, with a program in celebration of the Christmas and Holiday seasons. www.bellavoceofmobile.org

www.mobilebayparents.com

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December 4, 2023 Holiday Cheer

@ Five 609 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36602 Holiday Cheer to benefit the Child Advocacy Center will be from 6:00pm-8:30pm. The event will feature samplings of signature dishes, wines to taste, a live auction of holiday gifts and music. (251) 432-1101 www.cacmobile.org

Christmas Sip and Paint

@ Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 Come hear Christmas Classics done in a new and exciting way. 7:30pm.

December 5, 2023 USA Concert Choir & University Chorale Holiday Concert

www.asmglobalmobile.com

@ Laidlaw Performing Arts Center 5751 USA Drive South Mobile, AL 36688 USA Concert Choir and University Chorale Holiday Choral Concert will be held at 7:30pm.

ArtWalk Celebrates Christmas

@ Downtown Mobile LoDa ArtWalk celebrates Christmas. Enjoy art, music, karaoke, Santa, kids zone and more! 6:00pm-9:00pm

(251) 460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/music

(251) 208-1551

December 5-6, 2023 Playhouse in the Park presents “Babes in Toyland”

December 8-10, 2023

@ Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join us at Mobile’s Saenger Theatre for “Babes in Toyland” presented by The Playhouse-in-the-Park. 9am and 11:15am. (251) 602-0630 www.playhouseinthepark.org

Mobile holiday tradition, performing to the timeless score by Tchaikovsky with exciting choreography by Artistic Director Katia Garza. Join Clara and the Nutcracker Prince in their adventures with the Mouse King and the Sugar Plum Fairy in this magical story that will delight audiences of all ages. Friday-7:00pm, Saturday-2:00pm & 7:00pm, Sunday-2:00pm (251) 342-2241 www.mobileballet.org

December 9, 2023 Dawes Christmas Parade

@ Surge Church 2900 Dawes Road Mobile, AL 36695 Dawes Christmas Parade at 1pm. (251) 633-0033

Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas

@ Saenger Theatre 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 The 14th Annual A Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas featuring Kermit Ruffins. 7pm (251) 208-5600 www.asmglobalmobile.com

Christmas on the River Boat Parade

@ Grand Mariner Restaurant and Marina 6036 Rock Point Rd Mobile, AL 36605 This year’s Christmas on the River Boat Parade will be December 9 at dusk. This year’s theme is “Christmas in the South”.

www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Mobile Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”

(251) 443-7540 www.marinermarina.com

ad on page 34

@ Mobile Civic Center Theatre 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL 36602 Outstanding guest artists share the stage with Mobile Ballet Company and students in this cherished

Mobile Museum of Art Holiday Market

@ Mobile Museum of Art 4850 Museum Dr Mobile, AL 36608 Celebrate the holidays at Mobile Museum of Art’s Holiday Market & Open House! Join us for local

Food & Drink Specials

for

December 8, 2023 A Roman Street -Marlow Boys Christmas

www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

@ St. Mary Campus 1453 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36604 This family event takes place on the St. Mary Campus with activities under our the St. Mary Ollis Pavilion. The event begins with the Christmas Tree Lighting and the arrival of Santa! Join us for great food, festivities, fun, and SNOW! 7pm-9pm (251) 432-8678

@ Mardi Gras Park 109 Government Street Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for sipping, painting, singing, dancing, and having lots of fun! 6pm-9pm. Registration required. (251) 208-1551

December 6, 2023 St. Mary Lighting Up Midtown and Annual Tree lighting

* Mon. thru Fri. 3 pm to 6 pm

Mobile Causeway Only*

3 WINES 4DRAFT 4WELL $4SPECIAL DRINKS $ BEERS $ DRINKS $White Zinfadel Bloody Marys | Margaritas

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originaloysterhouse.com/happyhour 43

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

shopping, live music, food trucks, art activities, and free admission to the Museum. 2pm-5pm

Orchestra, Living Masterpieces, Children’s Choir and Piano Ensemble. 4:00pm

www.mobilemuseumofart.com/

(251) 652-1037 www.shbc.cc

Saraland Mistletoe Market

Holly Days on Main Festival

@ Saraland Town Center Park at Splash Pad Saraland, AL 36571 Join us for the Annual Mistletoe Market from 9:00am–4:00pm, come shop, eat, and more! (251) 675-4444 www.saralandchamber.com

2023 Semmes Christmas Tour and Shop Hop

@ Various locations Semmes, AL 36575 Semmes Woman’s Club invites you to share the joys of the upcoming season—the sights, the sounds, the smells, the flavors—with everyone who REALLY loves Christmas! Writeband pickup at City Hall from 1pm-3pm. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 Day of Event and are available at Meggie B’s Semmes Senior Center, Second Impression and online at Eventbrite.com. (251) 288-7972 www.facebook.com/semmeschristmastour/

Saraland Christmas Parade

Saraland, AL 36571 The Saraland Civic Forum presents the 55th Annual Christmas Parade “Christmas on the Bayou”. 12pm (251) 675-4444 www.saralandchamber.com

Semmes Christmas Parade

Semmes, AL 36575 The Semmes Christmas Parade will take place at 10:00 a.m. It will start near Heritage Park on Wulff Rd, turn on Hwy 98 headed east and end at Firetower Rd. (251) 649-8811

www.cityofsemmesal.gov

Reindeer Run 5K and Fun Run

@ Baldwin Square Old Highway 43 (Orange Ave Satsuma, AL 36572 Reindeer Run 5K and Fun Run.

@ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Guests can enjoy arts and crafts vendors, special performances, a lighted boat parade and more. 10am-5pm. (251) 224-1000

www.alwharf.com

December 10, 2023

A JOY Christmas Celebration ad on page 33

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Enjoy this inclusive, accessible and sensory friendly Christmas worship. 3:30pm. Fellowship Hall or Watch Live at christunited.com/live. Visit our website for more info. (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com

God With Us: A Service of Lessons and Carols ad on page 33

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 A celebration of the joy of the true meaning of Christmas and the Christ Child born to save us all. Join us for a dynamic worship service of Biblical readings and teaching, congregational singing, Christmas carols and anthems. This special service is presented by the Sanctuary Choir, Instruments of Praise orchestra, along with other guest musicians and music ensembles of the Worship Arts ministry at Christ United Methodist Church. Visit christmasinmobile.com for details. In the Sanctuary during 9:00am and 10:30am services. Visit our website for more information. (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com

https://events.com/r/en_US/registration/reindeerrun-5k-and-fun-run-satsuma-december-911685

The Nutcracker Tea

December 9-10, 2023

@ Mobile Civic Center Theatre 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL 36602 Mobile Ballet will be offering a very special event this year, The Nutcracker Tea, at the Mobile Civic Center East Exhibit Hall prior to the Sunday matinee performance! Details and tickets at www. mobileballet.org.

Elf Academy

ad on Inside Front Cover

@ OWA 1501 South OWA Blvd Foley AL 36535 12 pm to 6 pm. Join us at a special school for kids who want to help Santa by becoming an Elf! The fun begins at 12:00 pm with Christmas Carols ringing throughout the streets of Downtown OWA, with a local choir group spreading cheer with Christmas carols. The Elf Academy kicks off at noon when would-be Elves travel from station to station perfecting their Elf skills, including cookie decorating, reindeer food making, relay races, toy building, hot coco making and caroling, until you finish elf school and gain your elf hat! Then head over to the Gingerbread House Decorating Class, and follow that with some fun pictures with the Elf cutout. (251) 923-2111 www.VisitOWA.com/Christmas

This Is Christmas Concert

@ Springhill Baptist Church 2 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for an Advent worship experience featuring the Spring Hill Baptist Church Sanctuary Choir, Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

ad on page 34

(251) 342-2241 www.mobileballet.org

Mobile’s Singing Children Annual Christmas Concert

@ Cathedral of Immaculate Conception 2 South Claiborne Street Mobile, AL 36602 Mobile’s Singing Children Christmas Concert at 7:00pm. www.mobilesingingchildren.org

December 11, 2023 The Mobile Pops Christmas Concert - Davidson

@ Davidson High School Auditorium 3900 Pleasant Valley Road Mobile, AL 36609 Join us at 7:00pm at Davidson High School for our annual Christmas Concert. All concerts are FREE and open to the public. (251) 679-6036 www.themobilepops.com

December 14, 2023 Christmas Concert by the Symphonic Pops

@ MGM 4275 Snow Rd N Semmes, AL 36575 The Christmas Concert by the Symphonic Pops will be held on 12/14/23 at 7:00 p.m. at the MGM High School Auditorium. Free event. www.themobilepops.com/

December 14-17, 2023 Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr. @ The Pact Theatre 5025 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, AL 36609 (251) 307-5056 www.thepactmobile.com

December 15, 2023 Christmas Party - Praise Family Church

@ Praise Family Church 2605 Dawes Rd Mobile, AL 36695 Join us from 6:30pm-9:30 for our Christmas party. Enjoy Santa, a train ride through our lights, and many more activities. https://praisefamily.church/

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@ Joe Jefferson Playhouse 11 S Carlen St Mobile, AL 36606 Join us as we present the classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge as he is forced to confront his selfish ways. Shows - December 15 at 7pm, December 16 at 2pm and 7pm, and December 17 at 2 pm (251) 510-1808 www.sunnysidedrama.com

December 16, 2023 Christmas at the Exploreum

65 Government St. Mobile, AL 36602 Join us for a polar exploration at our Christmas at the Exploreum Event from 10am-2pm. Learn about the science behind the coldest places on Earth with chilling demonstrations and hands-on learning opportunities. Plus a few surprises in the mix! (251) 208-6893 www.exploreum.com

Holiday Homes Tour

300 Oakleigh Place Mobile, AL Holiday Homes Tour will be held December 16. Please visit our website for more information. (251) 432-6161 www.historicmobile.org/events

December 16-17, 2023 Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents “Holiday Classics” @ Saenger Theatre 6 Joachim Street Mobile, AL 36602 Our Christmas concerts are a highly anticipated Gulf Coast family tradition, and this year we feature a thrilling blend of popular and classical favorites in Holiday Classics. Dec 16-7:30pm, Dec 17-2:30pm (251) 432-2010 www.mobilesymphony.org

December 20, 2023

Let Heaven and Nature Sing-Along ad on page 33

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Join us for a Christmas carol sing-along to cele-

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brate the traditional songs of the season, complete with hot chocolate, cider, and Christmas cookies. Families are encouraged to bring their favorite cookies to share. 6:30pm in the Christ Center Gym. (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com

December 23, 2023

Christ United Kids Christmas Service ad on page 33

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Bring the kids for a fun and child-friendly Christmas service. Everyone will enjoy Christmas singa-longs and an interactive telling of the Christmas story. Visit christmasinmobile.com for details. 5:00pm in the Sanctuary. (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com

Carpe Diem’s Santa Run

@ Carpe Diem Coffee And Tea Company 4072 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 36608 A 2 mile Fun-Run, walk, bike ride, dog walking, fun for the whole family charity event. Join the fun, spread the Christmas spirit. Holiday Costumes encouraged. Time: 10:00am. (251) 304-0448 www.carpe-coffee.com

December 24, 2023

Christmas Eve Candlelight Traditional Communion ad on page 33

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Sing Christmas carols along with our choir,

meditate on scripture readings, listen to an inspirational Christmas message, and participate in Holy Communion. Each service will close with a special candle lighting and Silent Night. 6:00pm & 11:00pm in the Sanctuary or Watch Live at christmasinmobile.com. (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com

NewSong’s Christmas Eve Communion Services ad on page 33

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 Come and experience Christmas with our incredible live worship band and a meaningful Christmas message! The whole family will enjoy the celebration of God’s greatest gift with candlelight and Holy Communion. 4:00pm, Christ Center or Watch Live at christmasinmobile.com. (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com

December 31, 2023

(251) 208-1600 www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Kids Confetti Drop

@ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 If your little ones are too young to stay up until midnight, join us at The Wharf for our annual Kids Confetti Drop, featuring tons of family friendly activities plus an early daytime countdown to the new year. Event time is 10 am – 2 pm. Confetti drop at noon! www.alwharf.com

Reelin’ In the New Year NYE Street Party

@ Christ United Methodist Church 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL 36609 We will celebrate New Year’s Eve Day with worship in NewSong and Sanctuary at 10:30am only. Families are encourage to attend and bring your child’s favorite toy! Our pastors will pray God’s blessing over the children and their toy during service. Visit christmasinmobile.com for details. (251) 342-0462 www.christmasinmobile.com

@ Downtown Mobile Mobile, AL 36602 Ring in 2023 at the hottest New Year’s Eve Celebration in the South, MoonPie Over Mobile! Rock out of 2023 in downtown Mobile with the MoonPie Drop at midnight and jam to live music and an epic fireworks/laser light show! All the fun starts at 8 p.m. as Downtown Mobile

(251) 224-1000

Blessing of the Toys at Christ United Methodist ad on page 33

MoonPie Over Mobile New Year’s Eve

@ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 Reel in the new year with us at The Wharf for our New Year’s Eve Street Party. Live bands, family friendly and adult-centered fun all rounding off at midnight with our marlin drop and fireworks. Resolutions are for the start of the month. Give yourself one last excuse to let loose! Admission is free. 5pm-Midnight. (251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com MBP

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www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

FamilyCalendar Wednesday November 1

Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, AL, 36608 The Greater Gulf State Fair offers fun and entertainment for the whole family! Visit the website for a list of entertainment, specials and much more! www.greatergulfstatefair.com

Thursday November 2

Alabama School of the Arts’ production of “The Pirates of Penzance” 7:00 PM University of Mobile College Woods Auditorium, Mobile, AL, 36613 Get ready for a swashbuckling adventure on the high seas with the Alabama School of the Arts’ production of “The Pirates of Penzance” by Gilbert and Sullivan! Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and merriment as we bring this beloved comic operetta to life. asota.umobile.edu/event/the-pirates-of-penzance/ Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, AL, 36608 The Greater Gulf State Fair offers fun and entertainment for the whole family! Visit the website for a list of entertainment, specials and much more! www.greatergulfstatefair.com

Friday November 3

Chamber Theatre Productions presents Encore 10:30 AM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 The show geared towards sixtheighth grade features a compilation of great literature adapted for the stage. www.asmglobalmobile.com/events/detail/encore Alabama School of the Arts’ production of “The Pirates of Penzance” 7:00 PM University of Mobile College Woods Auditorium, Mobile, AL, 36613 Get ready for a swashbuckling adventure on the high seas with the Alabama School of the Arts’ production of “The Pirates of Penzance” by Gilbert and Sullivan! Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and merriment as we bring this beloved comic operetta to life. asota.umobile.edu/event/the-pirates-of-penzance/ Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Arsenic & Old Lace 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Arsenic & Old Lace https://cctshows.com/ Alabama Pecan Festival Tillman’s Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL, 36619 This family-oriented festival features a carnival atmosphere with rides, food, face painting, arts and crafts, live music, antique car show, and more. Free Admission. www.alabamapecanfestival.com Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Rd Mobile, AL, 36608

Saturday November 4

Mobile Heart Walk 8:00 AM University of South Alabama Mitchell Center Bell Tower, Mobile, AL, 36688 Every walker who joins, every dollar donated means more research, more people trained in lifesaving CPR, more medical breakthroughs and more champions for equitable health. www.MobileHeartWalk.org

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

Kids Day: Quarterly Series Event 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Joe Bailey Park, 712 Magnolia Rd Mobile, AL, 36606 Potter in the Park! Take a magical journey through the world of Harry Potter. Featuring magic, crafts, games, and more! The evening with conclude with a special viewing of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. 4pm-8pm. www.MobileParksAndRec.org Alabama School of the Arts’ production of “The Pirates of Penzance” 7:00 PM University of Mobile College Woods Auditorium, Mobile, AL, 36613 Get ready for a swashbuckling adventure on the high seas with the Alabama School of the Arts’ production of “The Pirates of Penzance” by Gilbert and Sullivan! Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and merriment as we bring this beloved comic operetta to life. asota.umobile.edu/event/the-pirates-of-penzance/ Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Arsenic & Old Lace 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Arsenic & Old Lace https://cctshows.com/ Alabama Pecan Festival Tillman’s Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL, 36619 This family-oriented festival features a carnival atmosphere with rides, food, face painting, arts and crafts, live music, antique car show, and more. Free Admission. www.alabamapecanfestival.com Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, AL, 36608 The Greater Gulf State Fair offers fun and entertainment for the whole family! Visit the website for a list of entertainment, specials and much more! www.greatergulfstatefair.com Seward Farms Corn Maze and Fall Fun Seward Farms, 10836 Tanner Williams Road Lucedale, MS, 39452 You’ll find tons of family fun, fresh air, twisting corn maze, fantastic food, and an evening by a crackling fire! We have a challenging corn maze, pig races, hayrides, funny farm golf, cow train, giant jumping pillow, corn cannon, farm animals, field of fright, pony rides and more. Hours: Open: Saturdays: 10am-6pm, Field Trips by reservations MondayThursday. www.sewardfarms.com

Sunday November 5

History Museum of Mobile-Open House 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM, History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The History Museum of Mobile welcomes you to our annual Open House. Featuring pop-up histories, behind-the-scenes tours, and more. Learn about some of the special artifacts on display in our exhibits with 5-minute Pop-Up Histories given by staff members. Colonial Fort Conde will also be free to visit, and staff will host living history demonstrations there throughout the day. https://www.historymuseumofmobile.com/ Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Arsenic & Old Lace 2:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 https://cctshows.com/

Alabama School of the Arts’ production of “The Pirates of Penzance” 3:00 PM University of Mobile College Woods Auditorium, Mobile, AL, 36613 Get ready for a swashbuckling adventure on the high seas with the Alabama School of the Arts’ production of “The Pirates of Penzance” by Gilbert and Sullivan! Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and merriment as we bring this beloved comic operetta to life. https://asota.umobile.edu/event/the-pirates-ofpenzance/ Second Annual Family Movie Night ($10 per

person or $40 MAX per family)

5:30 PM Wilmer Hall Children’s Home, 3811 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us on our front lawn at 5:30 PM with your blankets, chairs, drinks, snacks, whatever you need to get cozy for a night at the movies under the stars! We will have a dinner option on site, as well as Frios Gourmet Pops, who will donate a portion of their proceeds back to us!

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Alabama Pecan Festival Tillman’s Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL, 36619 This family-oriented festival features a carnival atmosphere with rides, food, face painting, arts and crafts, live music, antique car show, and more. Free Admission. www.alabamapecanfestival.com Greater Gulf State Fair The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road Mobile, AL, 36608 The Greater Gulf State Fair offers fun and entertainment for the whole family! Visit the website for a list of entertainment, specials and much more! www.greatergulfstatefair.com

Tuesday November 7

N.E.S.T of Mobile Annual Fundraiser Luncheon Mobile Convention Center, 1 S Water St Mobile, AL, 36602 Serving the needs of at-risk youth and families in Mobile County, NEST of Mobile aims to Nurture Children, Equip parents, Strengthen families, and Transform communities. http://www.nestofmobile.org/

Thursday November 9

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/ Art Soup 6:00 PM Crown Hall, 853 Dauphin St Suite A Mobile, AL, 36602 Art Soup is Nov 9, 2023 from 6-9; this year’s event will be held at Crown Hall. It’s a night of music, dancing, art, food, and fun – and all proceeds go to the Love All Pantry at Central to help alleviate hunger for local families. https://loveallpantry.org/art-soup/ The Pact Theatre presents Tarzan: The Musical 7:00 PM Langan Park, 4901 Zeigler Blvd Mobile, AL, 36608 Based on Disney’s epic animated musical adventure, Tarzan features heart-pumping music by rock legend Phil Collins and a book by TONY Awardwinning playwright, David Henry Hwang. 251-307-5056 https://thepactmobile.com/tarzan/

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FamilyCalendar USA Flute Choir & Celtic Crúe Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Flute Choir & Celtic Crúe Fall Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Veterans Day Celebration 3:00 PM Semmes Honor Park, Semmes, AL, 36575 Veterans Day Celebration will be held at Semmes Honor Park on 11/10 at 3:00 p.m. There will be a ceremony and displays at the event. It is a free event.

Columns and Cocktails Richards DAR House, 256 N Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36603 Join us for Columns and Cocktails. https://www.historicmobile.org/

The Pact Theatre presents Tarzan: The Musical 7:00 PM Langan Park, 4901 Zeigler Blvd Mobile, AL, 36608 Tarzan is recommended for those 6+. 251-307-5056 https://thepactmobile.com/tarzan/

Friday November 10

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Arsenic & Old Lace 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 https://cctshows.com/

Discovery School Tour: The Breman Town Musicians 10:30 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us in Bernheim Hall of the Ben May Main Library with the Mobile Opera! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Veterans Day Celebration and Parade of Flags 3:00 PM Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 This Veterans Day, join us as we honor and express our deepest gratitude to the true heroes among us – our veterans. Event features patriot music, presentations by the Veterans Day Essay Contest winners, a keynote address by the 2023-24 Distinguished Young Woman of the Year and more. Parade of Flags features 4th Grade students from Mobile and Baldwin counties.

USA Opera Theatre presents “The Trials of Opera” 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

The Pact Theatre presents Tarzan: The Musical 7:00 PM Langan Park, 4901 Zeigler Blvd Mobile, AL, 36608 Tarzan is recommended for those 6+. 251-307-5056 https://thepactmobile.com/tarzan/ Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Arsenic & Old Lace 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Arsenic & Old Lace https://cctshows.com/

Sunday November 12

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Arsenic & Old Lace 2:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Arsenic & Old Lace https://cctshows.com/

George Thorogood and the Destroyers: 50 Years of Rock 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Saturday November 11

Greek Fest Charity Gala 6:00 PM 50 South Ann Street Mobile, AL, 36604 The GreekFest Charity Gala invites you to take part in our online Charity Auction. By participating in this auction, you are not just bidding on remarkable items; you are offering hope and support to those in need. 251-438-9888 www.greekfestcharitygala.com

Annual Veterans Day Program 9:00 AM Blakeley State Park, Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us special cruises, living history demonstrations, guided tours, and a lecture by a nationally-known author! https://www.blakeleypark.com/

Mobile Bay Walk to End Alzheimer’s 2:00 PM Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 All funds raised through Walk to End Alzheimer’s further the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. https://act.alz.org/site/TR/Walk2023/ALAlabama?pg=entry&fr_id=16366

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FamilyCalendar Mobile Youth Orchestra Opening Concert 2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 https://mobilesymphony.org/msyo-season-schedule USA Opera Theatre presents “The Trials of Opera” 3:00 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Opera Theatre presents “The Trials of Opera” www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Tuesday November 14

Make A Craft – Turkey Coloring Cups 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Virginia Dillard Smith/Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Rd Mobile, AL, 36617 Enjoy a craft day with us, by making your turkey coloring cup to take home. We hope to see you there! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org USA Wind Ensemble Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Wind Ensemble Fall Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Wednesday November 15

Thanksgiving Craft 4:00 PM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Join us to kick off our Thanksgiving craft transforming recycled CDs into turkeys. All supplies will be provided. For ages 6-11. Registration is recommended! To register or for more information, please call 251-494-4935 or email Callie Kelley at ckelley@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday November 16

The Pact Theatre presents Tarzan: The Musical 7:00 PM Langan Park, 4901 Zeigler Blvd Mobile, AL, 36608 Based on Disney’s epic animated musical adventure and Edgar Rice Burroughs’s classic story of “Tarzan of the Apes,” Tarzan features heart-pumping music by rock legend Phil Collins and a book by TONY Award-winning playwright, David Henry Hwang. Tarzan is recommended for those 6+. 251-307-5056 https://thepactmobile.com/tarzan/ USA Symphony Band Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Symphony Band Fall Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Friday November 17

Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents Mean Girls High School Edition 7:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents Mean Girls High School Edition. (This show is rated PG-13 for content and language) https://www.sunnysidedrama.com/ The Pact Theatre presents Tarzan: The Musical 7:00 PM Langan Park, 4901 Zeigler Blvd Mobile, AL, 36608 Based on Disney’s epic animated musical adventure and Edgar Rice Burroughs’s classic story of “Tarzan of the Apes,” Tarzan features heart-pumping music by rock legend Phil Collins and a book by TONY Award-winning playwright, David Henry Hwang. Tarzan is recommended for those 6+. 251-307-5056 https://thepactmobile.com/tarzan/

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

Breakthrough Teens: 5th Quarter 8:30 PM - 11:30 PM, Seals Park & Community Center, 540 Texas St Mobile, AL, 36603 “The Kick Back” following the high school football & basketball games of the week. Come out and enjoy free food, drinks, dj, games and activities, and more! Breakthrough Teens! For Teens Ages 13-19! https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Saturday November 18

Jubilee Renaissance Faire 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 30569 Osprey Lane Robertsdale, AL, 36567 Enjoy Medieval Games of Skill, such as Archery or Axe throwing. War Horse rides, a Falconry demonstration and other live animal exhibitions. The main event will be a real full contact Jousting Tournament. 10am-5pm. www.jubileerenaissancefaire.com Beethoven & Blue Jeans 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Beethoven & Blue Jeans Saturday, November 18 at 7:30pm Sunday, November 19 at 2:30pm Flutist Anthony Trionfo will astound with his stunning skill in Lieberman’s dazzling showcase of a flute concerto, and we include Beethoven’s charming and beautiful “Pastoral” Symphony and Respighi’s The Birds. www.mobilesymphony.org Black Tie & Tails Gala 6:00 PM Crown Hall, 853 Dauphin St Suite A Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for a night of SAVING LIVES with our Black Tie & Tails Gala to benefit the Friends of the Mobile Animal Shelter The Pact Theatre presents Tarzan: The Musical 7:00 PM Langan Park, 4901 Zeigler Blvd Mobile, AL, 36608 Based on Disney’s epic animated musical adventure and Edgar Rice Burroughs’s classic story of “Tarzan of the Apes,” Tarzan features heart-pumping music by rock legend Phil Collins and a book by TONY Award-winning playwright, David Henry Hwang. Tarzan is recommended for those 6+. 251-307-5056 https://thepactmobile.com/tarzan/ Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents Mean Girls High School Edition 7:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents Mean Girls High School Edition. (This show is rated PG-13 for content and language) https://www.sunnysidedrama.com/ 40th Annual Mobile International Festival The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 The festival provides the ambiance of world travel, and it gives the opportunity to meet people from over 70 countries, a change to speak different languages, sample some delicious food, learn geography, history and more. www.mobileinternationalfestival.org

Sunday November 19

Battleship 12K 8:00 AM USS Battleship Memorial Parkway, Mobile, AL, 36602 The Battleship 12K, a patriotic run to honor those who have served, was started in 2015 as a way to pay tribute to those heroes who defend our freedom. www.battleship12k.com

Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents Mean Girls High School Edition 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Sunnyside Theatre and Drama Camp Productions presents Mean Girls High School Edition. (This show is rated PG-13 for content and language) https://www.sunnysidedrama.com/

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Beethoven & Blue Jeans 2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Beethoven & Blue Jeans Saturday, November 18 at 7:30pm Sunday, November 19 at 2:30pm Flutist Anthony Trionfo will astound with his stunning skill in Lieberman’s dazzling showcase of a flute concerto, and we include Beethoven’s charming and beautiful “Pastoral” Symphony and Respighi’s The Birds. www.mobilesymphony.org

Monday November 20

The Palmer Williams Group Annual Iron Bowl Legends Benefit Gala 6:00 PM 26 North Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The purpose of this event is to raise funds to support our efforts in offering free youth development programs to disadvantaged communities. USA Woodwind Ensembles Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Tuesday November 21

Teen Cuisine: Oreo Turkey Treats 3:30 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us at West Regional Library to make a cute turkey cookie out of Oreos and Candy Corn. Ideal for ages 12-18. Space is limited so please register. Registration is required! To register, please use this form: https://forms.office.com/r/artcCKfJp or email Jennifer Thomas at jthomas2@mplonline.org. 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Friday November 24

Friday Night Live 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Tricentennial Park, 2121 Lake Dr Mobile, AL, 36617 Take a break from Black Friday shopping and join us for a free, family concert of Blue Grass & Gospel Music! https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events/fridaynight-live-november-2023

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Saturday November 25

Iron Bowl Block Party Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Huddle up at the City of Mobile Parks and Recreation Department’s Iron Bowl Block Party! Catch the 88th Iron Bowl Game on our 23’x13’ HD LED screen! Enjoy a live DJ playing during TV timeouts! Opportunity to win prizes for best-dressed and most spirited fans! Check out local restaurants and bars! https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events/ironbowl-block-party-2023

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Calendar Sunday November 26

The Wiz - The Final Curtain Call 4:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 The Wiz - The Final Curtain Call https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Tuesday November 28

Skillet + Theory Of A Deadman - The Rock Resurrection Tour with special guest Saint Asonia 7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/ USA Jazz Ensemble Fall Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Thursday November 30

Family Art - Mobile Museum of Art ($5 members

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

1:00 PM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Dr. Mobile, AL, 36608 Learn basics of abstract painting tricks to blend like Bongé! We will be using acrylic paints and roofing paper to create unique abstract sunflower paintings inspired by the artwork of Biloxi native and first Abstract Expressionist, Dusti Bongé. Sign up online. https://www.mobilemuseumofart.com/

Annual Hargrove Gala 6:00 PM Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel, Mobile, AL, 36602 It is an honor to host Ambassador “Sully” Sullenberger as the featured speaker for the 2023 Hargrove Foundation Gala. The Hargrove Foundation welcomes you for another year as we celebrate perseverance, impact, and the power of community. https://hargrovefoundation.org/2023-foundation-gala

Friday December 1

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

In the little moments and major milestones of childhood, we are here for our patients and their families – helping, healing, teaching and discovering.

Saturday December 2

The Mobile Book Expo-Litcon 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 35 Cody Road Mobile, AL, 36608 The Mobile Book Expo is very proud to announce that we are now a part of LitCon! LitCon is a nonprofit helping authors, aspiring authors and vendors looking for unique opportunities to showcase their work and connect with local communities. LitCon is bringing several author events together across the country! These are very exciting opportunities to promote local authors, their books and book projects to local customers, fans, friends and folks all over the United States. https://www.teamlitcon.org/mobile

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7th Annual Gulf Seafood Gala 6:00 PM Alabama Aquarium at Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 102 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Come indulge in delectable Alabama gulf seafood and desserts in a wonderful environment! Proceeds benefit Dauphin Island Heritage and Arts Council. https://www.dauphinislandarts.org/product/7th-annual-gulf-seafood-gala/105

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FamilyCalendar Ali Siddiq 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Ali Siddiq is stand-up comedian and public

speaker out of Houston, TX. https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Kevin Gates 8:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 Kevin Gates concert. https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Monday December 4

USA Department of Music Fall Honors Recital 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Friday December 8

Mobile Wish Night 6:00 PM Riverview Plaza Hotel, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for Wish Night, with fine dining, auctions, special mission moments and more to benefit Make a Wish. alabamawishnight.com

Thursday December 14

Toddler Time-Mobile Museum of Art ($5 members

per child per session | $10 non-members)

Friday December 15

Breakthrough Teens: 5th Quarter 8:30 PM - 11:30 PM, Figures Community Center, 658 Donald Street Mobile, AL, 36617 “The Kick Back” following the high school football & basketball games of the week. Come out and enjoy free food, drinks, dj, games and activities, and more! Breakthrough Teens! For Teens Ages 13-19! https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/

Saturday December 16

Allman Betts Family Revival 8:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 Allman Betts Family Revival https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

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

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

Thursday December 21

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

Every Monday

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

Wheel Of Fortune LIVE! 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Wheel Of Fortune LIVE! https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

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

Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

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

First and third Wednesdays

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

Every Thursday

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

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Little Explorers 10:30 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Exploring the world one tiny step at a time. Every Friday from 10:30-11:00 am in the Nature Pavilion and the Moorer Courtyard with Ms. Charise. Included in General Admission. Free for Exploreum members. www.exploreum.com

Every Second Friday

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

Saturdays thru November 18

Fall Market in the Park 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Shop locally grown, locally produced, and handmade items all while listening to live entertainment. https://www.cityofmobile.org/ parks-rec/events/market-inthe-park-fall-2023/

Every Saturday

tors sponsored by Wind Creek Hospitality every first Sunday of the month! 251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

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

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 visi-

First and third Sundays

Animal Ambassadors 2:00 PM Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Free, family friendly, no registration required. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

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

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Unwrapping the Debate: The Pros and Cons of Gifting Your Child a Device and Social Media

The holiday season is upon us, and I don’t know about you, but I find myself missing the good old days of toy cars and Barbies as Christmas gifts. They were simple, less stress-inducing gifts. Instead, we face the common question: Should we give our child a device and social media for Christmas? Giving them social media as a “gift” may sound strange, but I have spoken with many kids asking for access to social media as their “gift.” And while the allure of the latest gadgets and online connectivity is undeniable, it’s essential to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks before deciding. On one hand, providing your child with a device and access to social media can open up a world of opportunities. I discuss negatives frequently here, but let me mention some positives. In today’s digital age, children and teens must develop technological literacy and familiarity with online platforms. With the proper guidance and supervision, social media can serve as a tool for learning, creativity, and social interaction. There are some devices and social media that can offer educational benefits. Numerous apps, websites, and online resources are designed specifically to enhance children’s learning experiences. The digital realm can foster intellectual growth and expand kids’ knowledge base, from Mobile Bay Parents I November 2023

interactive educational games to virtual museums and art platforms. Social media platforms can also facilitate connections and friendships. They allow children to communicate with their peers, express their thoughts, and share their accomplishments. In an increasingly globalized world, social media can help children develop a sense of community and cultural understanding, building bridges across geographical boundaries. These connections need to be monitored to ensure that your child connects in a positive, appropriate manner. Positives aside, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential drawbacks of gifting your child a device or social media. One of the main concerns is the risk of excessive screen time and its impact on physical and mental health. Spending extended hours glued to screens can lead to sedentary behavior, poor sleep patterns, and even behavioral issues. Parents must establish healthy boundaries and ensure their child engages in a balanced lifestyle. Another concern is online safety. The internet is a vast and unpredictable space, and children can be vulnerable to cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and online predators. As parents, we are responsible for educating our children about online safety measures, monitoring their online activities, and establishing parental controls to mitigate these risks. 52

Social media can sometimes foster unrealistic expectations and a sense of constant comparison. The curated nature of social media feeds can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, particularly among impressionable young minds. Parents need to foster open conversations about self-worth, critical thinking, and the importance of distinguishing between online life and real-life experiences. In other words, the 30-second clips or quick images they see do not indicate everyday, all-day real life. So, should you give your child a device and social media for Christmas? Ultimately, it depends on several factors, including your child’s age, maturity level, and your ability to establish healthy boundaries and provide adequate guidance. If you decide to proceed, consider setting clear rules and limitations on screen time, promoting a healthy balance between online and offline activities. Engage in open discussions with your child about online safety, responsible digital citizenship, and maintaining a positive and authentic online presence. By being proactive and involved in your child’s digital journey, you can help them navigate the online world safely and responsibly.

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

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Parents

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Keep Your Kids Cancer Free!

More than 26,000 new cases of HPV cancers could be prevented with HPV vaccination

HPV Vaccine is Cancer Prevention!

Prevents 90% of HPV cancers Protects boys and girls against half a dozen cancers including cervical and other HPV cancers.

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contact your childs doctor today! Vaccine costs are covered by most insurance programs, Medicaid, and the Vaccine for Children Program (VFC).

Don’t Wait to Vaccinate AGE AT FIRST DOSE

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Approximately 4 months after dose #2

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

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

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