Starla has always loved to play like a princess...
Today she is one. When Starla came to USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital, at age two, she was already very sick. The physicians soon diagnosed her with a rare form of leukemia. After a courageous battle, Starla is cancer free. Today she’s still pretending to be a princess, but the physicians and staff at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital know what a real princess she truly is. From diagnosis and treatment to recovery, let USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital care for your family.
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July2016
Volume 9 Number 2
42 Columns
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6 Publisher’s Note Lynn Knighton
8 Living With Children
Middle School Years
John Rosemond
A parent pep talk for expecting memories, not mayhem, as they head off to middle school.
8 Birthday Traditions These ideas will make your child feel extra special this year and every year after.
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14 Kids Health Watch
sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
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30 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs
32 Dave Says Dave Ramsey
34 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston
Birthday Party Guide Our listing helps you find all the resources you need for their big day!
Cool Party Themes
Discover six fun and unique party ideas for your tweens and teens.
40 Get This!
Gerry Paige Smith
60 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
On The Cover Amaya Grace Hall (8) is the daughter of Ann Powe and Germiyer Hall. Amaya has three siblings: Justin Hall (12), Jordan (11) and Ava Bell (3). Amaya is the granddaughter of Myrtle Powe of Fairhope and Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Hall of Selma, Alabama. She attends Daphne East Elementary and loves reading, skating, gymnastics and singing.
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Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 64 Family Calendar 80 Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine
Publisher’sNote As my daughter and I were standing next to each other, brushing our hair in front of the mirror, I noticed that she is now officially taller than me. Not by much, maybe 0.5” at best, but it was just enough to make her giggle and beam with excitement. I, on the other hand, had mixed emotions. I am joyful to see my baby growing, learning new things, and exploring new interests. However, as she heads off to middle school, I know this exciting time of life will also bring a different set of challenges. Some of the parents from my daughter’s youth group have even started meeting once a week to work through Paul Tripp’s book, Age of Opportunity, to help us navigate these teen years. That is exactly what the teen years are and Age of Opportunity is not only for the teenagers, but also for the parents. It is an opportunity for us to coach and guide, allowing for more independence. At the same time, it is an opportunity to explore our own hearts and fears, to listen more, and to take the parent child relationship to a whole new, wonderful place. Whether you have a tween or a teen, I highly recommend Tripp’s book. Speaking of teens and new fears, with all the hype of middle school that has plagued generations since the beginning of time, my daughter does have a bit of apprehension about beginning in the fall. Don’t get me wrong, she is very excited, but she does wonder if all the urban legends she hears are true. Fortunately for us, she has an older sister who is guiding her, calming her fears, and yes, warning her of some of the drama that “might” happen and how to hopefully avoid it. I think the biggest fear of something new is the unknown so having a little “inside” information has helped settle her tremendously. Parents of rising middle school students will enjoy Christina Katz’s article Expect Memories, Not Mayhem From The Middle School Years: A Parent Pep Talk. It may be just the thing your anxious household needs! Now that we are officially in the teen and tween years, one challenge we have already faced is what to do for their birthdays. Gone are the days of the fairy princess parties at my house. The girls want something a little more their age, which takes a bit more creativity. Fortunately Pam Molnar has given us some really fun ideas in Six Cool Party Themes for Teens and Tweens. This is such a fun list too. We have already started planning for next year’s parties! One thing the girls will never get too old for is some of our birthday traditions, especially the one where I decorate the house while they are asleep so they wake up to balloons, streamers and birthday wishes in surprise places. One year I even taped a birthday note inside the toilet lid. They found that hilarious! This is a tradition that has been passed down from my mom, who would still be leaving us notes on our bathroom mirrors if we let her. I wouldn’t change that for anything either. Whether you are looking to start birthday traditions or just add more to your lineup, make sure you check out 8 Birthday Traditions You’ll Want to Try by Kerrie McLoughlin. If you are planning a birthday party for a child of any age, you definitely want to flip over to our Birthday Party Planning Guide! In this guide you will find more than 100 different local party resources to use. Need a cake? Need some entertainment? Need a place to party? Need to rent inflatables, chairs or concessions? Look no further! We’ve got you covered. This is your one-stop party guide so make sure you hold on to your copy as you plan for your special celebrations. This is an edition full of celebrations and as we also celebrate the birth of our nation’s independence, I would like to thank all of the men, women and families who serve or have served our country. For that, I am truly grateful. Happy 4th!
Lynn lynn@easternshoreparents.com
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The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source
Eastern Shore Parents Magazine, is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant, role in our community. Eastern Shore Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Christa Weinberg Contributing Writers
Mandy B. Fernandez Mark Gregston Carolyn Jabs Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. Dave Ramsey Laura Lyles Reagan, MS John Rosemond Robert L. Rux, M.D. Gerry Paige Smith
Cover Photography Laura Rowe www.laurarowephotography.com
President Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com Advertising Opportunities Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall Traci Calvert Danielle Nicholas ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099 Ad Design Tim Welch
Visit us online at www.easternshoreparents.com Eastern Shore Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 374, Montrose, Alabama, 36559. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 929-2099. Eastern Shore Parents is copyrighted 2015 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Eastern Shore Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond
Handling Bedtime When Your Child is Scared Q: My 6-year-old daughter watched too many episodes of a certain TV show when she was sick and now she doesn’t want to go to sleep at night because she is having scary thoughts related to the show. She will come out of her room again and again complaining of these thoughts (mostly before she has gone to sleep; rarely in the middle of the night) and want to be tucked back in. How would you recommend handling this? A: First, I must say that I hope you’ve learned something here. Sick children, especially if they are feverish, are in a mentally and emotionally vulnerable state in which they are likely to misinterpret and exaggerate the significance of otherwise mundane events. The only media they should be exposed to are media that will calm their central nervous systems. Exciting television shows of any nature do not qualify. Let me point out to the audience-atlarge that sick children actually did manage
to get well before television. When, as a child, I became ill, I stayed in bed, colored in my coloring books, read, and listened to the radio. In fact, I was not allowed out of bed except to use the bathroom, eat, or throw up (somewhat in that order). I have a theory: The more fun it is for a child to be sick, the more often the child will become sick. I’m not referring to manipulation; I’m talking about simple association. The answer to your question turns on how many times per night on average you have to tuck your daughter back in bed. If less than a dozen, then for Pete’s (whoever he is and wherever he may be) sake, just tuck her back in. Believe me, this too will pass. It’s nothing more than a fairly common bump in the road of rearing. In the meantime, you do not want to turn this into a “disciplinary issue” by getting upset and punishing. Just stay calm and be the parent. When she comes out of her room and says she’s afraid, calmly lead her back and do
the tucking ritual again. If you say anything, make it along these lines: “I’ve told you all I know to tell you about your scary thoughts, sweetie my lovebug [Which, in fact, you have]. I don’t have anything more to tell you [Which, in fact, you don’t]. So, let’s go back to bed.” Do not be deterred by any increase in the volume of her protests, including crying. Just tuck her in without any more talk, give her a reassuring kiss, and leave. Repeat that procedure until it “takes,” which may take a dozen times on any given night. Assuming you remain calm and resolute, I predict a two-to-three week cure; in the overall scheme of things, insignificant. It’s important that you stop talking to your daughter about her scary thoughts. As was the case when you were a child and had scary thoughts, ninety-nine percent of such things are nothing more than random and therefore meaningless “mind burps.” Talking to a child about such things increases the likelihood that the thoughts and feelings in question will worsen and become a form of drama. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
Providence Office 610 Providence Park Dr. E., Suite 201 Mobile, Alabama, 36695 (251) 639-1300 Karen I. Calametti, M.D. Jonathan Holmes, M.D. Catherine W. Huettemann, M.D. Richard E. Huettemann, M.D. Deborah A. Kassner, M.D. Elizabeth S. Weinacker, M.D. Airport Office 3920 Airport Boulevard Mobile, Alabama, 36608 (251) 342-3810 Jennifer G. Adair, M.D. Savannah I. Browning, M.D. Matthew Cepeda, M.D. Michael Little, D.O. Lisa McDonough, M.D. Faye Roberts, M.D. Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016
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Weeks Bay Foundation Pelican Paddle Canoe and Kayak Race
On July 23rd the Weeks Bay Foundation will be hosting their 4th annual Pelican Paddle Canoe and Kayak Race. Racers will compete in categories such as solo kayak, tandem craft, stand up paddleboard, and nontraditional craft. We even have a junior division and a pro division, which runs a 7 mile course! For those folks who aren’t interested in racing, we will have a leisurely guided Eco-Tour, great for nature lovers and inexperienced paddlers. Don’t have a canoe or kayak? Fairhope Boat Company and 17 Turtles Outfitters have generously donated a limited number of canoes and kayaks to be loaned out to people who don’t have their own equipment. Tickets are $30/paddler $70/family in advance. Check out www. weeksbay.org or call 251-990-5004 for more information.
A Community Art Installation by the Eastern Shore Art Center Committee on Public Art
Join the community in “yarn bombing” the downtown Fairhope trees! It’s the newest community art form that is sweeping the country and the world. Teams will be assigned a tree in downtown Fairhope to decorate in yarn or other soft fabric “coats”. Pick a theme for your tree, or just go wild, use your imagination, as long as you don't harm the tree. Decorations will be installed on Saturday, September 10, between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., and trees will be judged for prizes shortly after 2:00 p.m. The decorations will be up for the whole community to visit until September 30. For more information and how to participate, please email Gaye Lindsey at gplindsey@bellsouth.net or Philip Webb at philipraywebb@gmail.com. To see examples of yarn bombing art visit http://www.esartcenter. com/special-events.php or find Art on a Limb on Facebook!
Founder’s Day is August 6 at Bellingrath Gardens and Home
By tradition, Bellingrath Gardens and Home celebrates Mr. Bellingrath’s birthday on August 6 by offering free admission to residents of Mobile and Baldwin Counties. This year, our Founder’s Day celebration will include cruises on the Fowl River with Delta Safaris, offering knowledgeable tour guides to educate audiences about the wildlife and ecology of the Gulf Coast. There will be four guided cruises, weather permitting. The cruises last about 45 minutes and will depart from the Riverfront Pavilion at the Bellingrath Home. Times are 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m. Reservations are required for the cruises; to make a reservation, call 251.973.2217. Fees are $9 for adults and $7 for children ages 5-12; there is no charge for Bellingrath members or for ages 4 and younger. Admission to the Gardens is complimentary to all Mobile and Baldwin County residents on Founder’s Day, but there is an additional charge of $9 to tour the Bellingrath Museum Home.
Market Days Returns to North Baldwin
Market Days offers a wide assortment of vendors selling everything from homegrown produce to antiques. Sponsored by the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, the outdoor market will take place July 16 and Aug 20 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the chamber’s front lawn on McMeans Avenue/Alabama 59. “It's a great way to start your weekend, so many treasures to be found. The event will include lots of homemade, handmade and homegrown items. Arts and crafts, yard sale, jams and jellies, breads, produce -- you name it, you can find it here” said Kris Angelone, NBCC Membership and Project Manager. Vendor spaces are free for chamber members and $15 for non-members. Wind Creek's Food to Go Truck will be set up at the chamber and there will also be live music and kids’ activities.
2016 Flavors of the South – Food and Wine Showcase
Join the Central Baldwin Chamber of Commerce for the 2016 Flavors of the South held to showcase food and wine from local restaurants and caterers. Come sample a variety of food and drink while listening to music and participating in our 50/50 drawing and silent auction. Individual tickets are $25 or a table of 8 is $200. This special event will be held July 21, from 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. at the Baldwin County Coliseum in Robertsdale. Looking for additional exposure for your business/organization? Ads can be purchased in the event booklet that is given to all attendees during the evening. Donations items are also being accepted for the silent auction. For more information or to reserve tickets, call the Chamber at 251-947-2626.
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19th Annual Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation Professional Rodeo Fundraiser
Professional cowboys and cowgirls from all over the country are getting ready for their favorite Southeastern Rodeo, the 19th Annual Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation Professional Rodeo on August 4, 5 and 6 at the City of Foley Horse Arena. This Rodeo features exciting events including bull riding, barrel racing, bareback riding, calf roping, team roping, steer wrestling, break away roping and much more. All proceeds benefit the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides training, funding and support to 50 Peer Helper Programs in 47 public and private schools across Baldwin County impacting the lives of children pre-k through 12 grade facing academic or personal struggles. Pre-rodeo festivities in conjunction with the rodeo that are free to the public will all be held at the Foley Horse Arena. The Queens’ Horsemanship Contest is Thursday, July 28 which will include the crowning of the queens. Two Barrel Racing events, also free to spectators, will be on Tuesday, August 2 and Saturday morning, August 6. The Rodeo Kick Off Party will be held at Bryant Bank in Foley on August 4. Tickets are $50 and include food, drinks, and entertainment. The Rodeo kicks off each night at 8:00 p.m. with FREE children’s activities beginning nightly at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $6 for children ages 4-12 years old, and free for ages 3 and under. Tickets are sold in advance at the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation at 819 North McKenzie Street in Foley, Summerdale Western Store on Highway 59 in Summerdale and Frances Holk-Jones State Farm Insurance at 315 E. Laurel Avenue in Foley. Tickets will also be available each night at the gate of the Rodeo. Visit JenniferMooreFoundation.com, follow on Facebook or Instagram at Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation or call 251-971-3633 for more information.
Support the Manatees and Reserve your Vehicle Tag Today
The Manatee Sighting Network is looking to secure a specialized license plate in the state of Alabama. In order for the plate to be produced, 250 people must commit to purchasing the specialized plate during the next year. Once 250 people commit, the plate will be produced. The revenue generated from the specialized manatee license plates will be used to support the Manatee Sighting Network and outreach and education, research, tagged manatee program and data sharing. Elizabeth Hieb, the Manatee Sighting Network Manager, says this is the time of year that manatees migrate to the Northern Gulf of Mexico and she encourages boaters to keep an eye out, and report sightings to the Manatee Sighting Network. Sightings can be reported 24 hours a day in three ways: On-line at manatee.disl.org; Call toll free: 1-866- 493-5803; Email manatee@disl.org. Drivers interested in securing a specialized manatee license plate can do so online at precommit. mvtrip.alabama.gov. Everyone who commits will be sent a Manatee Sighting Network drink hugger as a thank you.
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Local Businesses Showing Gratitude for Their Community
Area businesses have come together to support Under His Wings – a nonprofit religious-based home located in Robertsdale for girls under the age of 19 struggling with life-controlling issues. Its mission is “to provide a loving Christian home for at-risk teenage girls, connect them to who they are in the eyes of God and equip them with life skills essential to wholeness.” This grassroots organization was founded by Fairhope obstetrician & gynecologist, Dr. Lorena Hunt who realized the need for a residential home in Baldwin County to assist families struggling with girls in crisis. Since its inception in 2013, this program has helped eleven girls with a median age of 14 transform their lives. Under His Wings is completely funded by donations from the community and provides all of their services free of charge. Longtime Under His Wings supporter and local attorney, Sam Crosby, suggested a children’s book, “Grateful Hearts Give Thanks”, featuring original watercolor art by artist Alyson Jackson with a storyline that encourages an attitude of gratitude to benefit this nonprofit organization. Joining him on this project was author Heather Hickox and Page & Palette bookstore owner Karin Wilson. Crosby, who wrote the foreword of the book, based its concept on a scripture passage that encourages “giving thanks in all circumstances” and on studies showing a clear link between gratitude and a child’s overall well-being. “Giving thanks has been a key to contentment in my life. In my opinion it is difficult to be discontent while truly giving thanks from our hearts” said Crosby. In addition to the sale of the book, the original watercolor paintings of each page by Alyson Jackson have been purchased to further benefit Under His Wings. Two local businesses recently supported this endeavor by purchasing a piece of the art and, in the true spirit of the book’s premise, donated it to a community entity for which they are thankful. State Farm agent Frances Holk-Jones presented the “military page” to the Alabama Armory National Guard 31st Signal Company in honor of their service and sacrifice to the community. There to accept the artwork from Holk-Jones were First Sergeant Chuck Lay and Sergeant First Class William Ginn. Continuing the community business gratitude initiative was Fairhope city attorney Tut Wynne presenting the “emergency services” artwork to the Fairhope Police Department in honor of Officer Ronnie Marshall. Marshall is a retiring member of the police force known for going above his call of duty to assist stranded motorists much as the painting portrays. There to accept the donation from Tut Wynne were Officer Ronnie Marshall and Police Chief Joe Petties. For more information regarding the Under His Wings ministry contact 251.947.4673 or www.UnderHisWings.info. Copies of the book Grateful Hearts Give Thanks are available at Page & Palette in Fairhope and through Angie Michal at am.underhiswings@gmail.com. Pictured from left to right – “Grateful Hearts Give Thanks” artist Alyson Jackson & Under His Wings Director Angie Michal.
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Thomas Hospital Auxiliary Welcomes Junior Volunteers
Thomas Hospital welcomes 60 students from Bayshore Christian School, Bayside Academy, Daphne High School, Fairhope High School, McGillToolen Catholic High School, Robertsdale High School, and Spanish Fort High School, participating in the Thomas Hospital Auxiliary’s Junior Volunteer program this summer. They are volunteering in the Cath Lab, Clinical Education, Fitness Center, Physical Therapy, Respiratory Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Women’s and Children’s departments at Thomas Hospital. They will also volunteer in seven Auxiliary service areas – emergency department waiting area, endoscopy escort, gift shop, information desk, and transportation at Thomas Hospital, and the surgery waiting area and information desk at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. The Thomas Hospital Auxiliary Junior Volunteer program is offered to high school students between the ages 14 to 17 who maintain at least a B average and have an interest in volunteering at the hospital during the summer. The program runs from June 6 to July 31. The goals of the program, chaired by Thomas Hospital Auxilians Dottie South and Jerry Friedlander, are to give service to the hospital, increase community understanding and interest in the hospital, and further interest in health careers. Pictured with Thomas Hospital Auxiliary Junior Volunteer chairpersons Dottie South and Jerry Friedlander (far left), are Junior Volunteers (in alphabetical order) Nathan Adkins, Carolina Amezaga, Yolanda Amezaga, Jacob Astralaga, Kaitlyn Baker, Allie Bjorkner, Julia Coccaro, Anna Criswell, Gabby Dennis, Jadyn Domning, Lizzy Dvorak, Aubrey Engeriser, Ashlan Evans, Azaria Faiupu, Parker-Grace Farrow, Sallie Fell, Amy Goleman, Mackenzie Howell, Mallory Howell, Madeline Joffrion, Bonnie Johnson, Elliott Johnson, Madison Johnson, Lindsay Keating, Abigail Ketchem, Brooke Kirkham, Abby Kis, Ania Krutul, Kate Laraway, Mary-Grace Lott, Jordan Mitchell, Allie Nobles, Mikayla Nunez, Sarah O'Connor, Ana Sofia Olivar, Kajal Patel, Allie Relfe, Emma Richbourg, Greer Robinson, Mikey Saraceno, Alanna Wiest, and Jackie Williams, Not pictured are Camille Baker, Eliza Colbert, Ethan Colbert, Genevieve Corte, Lindsey Daniel, Maddi Estes, Mary Carlyn Fidler, Christy Graves, Emma Hunter, Hadley Hutchinson, William Illiano, Elisa Koolman, Ashley Rella, Lauren Shaw, Grayson Vickery, Avery Vosen, Chloe Walker, and Caroline Young.
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Original Oyster House Earns 2016 TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence
The Original Oyster House®has again received the TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award for its Gulf Shores and Mobile Causeway locations. Now in its sixth year, the accolade honors hospitality excellence and is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveller reviews on TripAdvisor. The Certificate of Excellence accounts for the quality, quantity and recency of reviews submitted by travelers on TripAdvisor over a 12-month period. To qualify, a business must maintain an overall TripAdvisor bubble rating of at least four out of five, have a minimum number of reviews and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months. “We are grateful to our customers who took the time to complete a review on TripAdvisor,” said Joe Roszkowski, co-owner of the Original Oyster House restaurant. “There is no greater accolade than being recognized by one’s customers. With the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence based on customer reviews, this recognition is a remarkable vote of confidence to our business and our continued commitment to excellence.”
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
Ouch, My Ear! Hey guys! I hope you are having a great summer! It’s hot, so your kids are swimming in the pool, the river, the Bay and/or the Gulf. So now it’s Sunday night and your child’s ear is killing them! They haven’t had an ear infection in years! So what’s going on? You guessed it, swimmer’s ear! Today we will talk about swimmer’s ear or otitis externa, what causes it, why it can be very serious, how to treat it and finally how to prevent it for the next few months and for every summer in the future! Otitis Externa (OE) is an external ear canal infection that occurs when water gets in the ear and causes breakdown of the lining of the canal. Then, bacteria or yeast can penetrate the lining of the canal and cause the infection. The most common bugs we find include Pseudomonas (which is very common in the Bay and rivers), Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus species. When the ear canal is inflamed, the ear produces drainage, which is kind of like “ear snot,” and can cause pain or burning when it’s touched or pulled, or when the child chews food! In addition the swelling can make the outer ear stick out and even cause the lymph nodes around the ear to swell up. Usually the kids do not have fever, and it is not contagious. So, my kids haven’t swam in weeks, so it can’t be swimmer’s ear, right? Well, actually you can get OE not just from swimming in pools or
Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016
rivers or the Bay, but also from bathing! If left untreated, OE can cause some serious issues. Not only can it cause severe pain, but the infection can spread to other structures near the ear, especially to the temporal bone behind the ear and possibly cause the need for surgery by an ENT! This summer alone I have seen several really bad cases of OE, including one case where the child required IV antibiotics and IV pain medicines! OK, so my kid is crying, what do we do? First let your medical provider take a look at the ear. While it most likely is OE, I have pulled all kinds of things from a kid’s ear including beads, Q-tips, roaches (that’s right, roaches!), pencil lead, and erasers. So if it’s OE, the appearance of the canal helps dictate treatment. Usually, it only needs some special ear drops, but sometimes we place an ear wick. This is a small strip of cotton that can absorb a special antibiotic/inflammatory medicine and deliver it into the canal and work to settle down the inflammation. Sometimes, kids also need antibiotics by mouth and special pain medicines to help the child get rest. And, of course, you have to stop swimming until you are done with the medicines, or they won’t work! Now you guys are over the swimmer’s ear, but are afraid to get back in the water so it doesn’t come back! Well, you live in Baldwin County, so they are bound to get back in at
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some point! The move is to prevent OE by acidifying the ear canal so the bugs won’t grow! We recommend buying a clear ketchup bottle from your local large grocery store and mixing up equal parts of rubbing alcohol and white vinegar with a tablespoon of olive oil. So now, after swimming and bathing at the end of the night, dry the ear out well with a hair dryer, and then take the ketchup bottle, shake it well, and place 3 drops in each ear. The key with this is to use it as a preventative measure. Sometimes this medicine can help with treatment, but not always, so if you have an episode of swimmer’s ear, we recommend implementing this plan after it’s been treated. OK, so today we reviewed the words ear snot, Pseudomonas, roaches, and ketchup bottles in reference to your kid’s ears! Who knew? If you have any questions, please talk to your medical provider and review the references at aap.org. Good Luck!
Robert L. Rux, M.D. is a Board Certified Pediatrician at Magnolia Springs Pediatrics. Originally from Mobile, he attended medical school at The University of Alabama School of Medicine (UAB) and completed residency at The Children’s Hospital of Alabama (UAB). He is married to Jaime and has three children, Adler, Walker and Mary McAtee.
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FUN FORE ALL.
Plan a few rounds of family fun on your next beach trip. Swing by The Wharf and check out our all new 18-hole putt-putt course. Trust us; it’s a hole lotta fun.
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Open every day of the week.
Kids 4 & under play free.
For information and group rates please call 251-974-1870, or visit AlWharf.com.
MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE FAVORITE WHARF SPOTS GINNY LANE BAR & GRILL | LUXURY GULF RENTALS | MONTEGO'S | SEA LA VIE | THE HOT SPOT | VILLAGGIO GRILLE
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Autauga County Schools
Robertsdale Cheerleaders to Host Free City Cheer Camp
SFHS Sophomore Attends Leadership Academy
Robertsdale cheerleaders will be hosting a free city cheer camp July 12, 13, 14. Times, details and registration forms are available at Robertsdale City Hall. The cheerleaders will also be holding a fundraiser cheer clinic on August 1st, 2nd, 3rd at Robertsdale Elementary School Gymnasium from 9 - 11:30 a.m. for ages 4 years old - 6th grade. Cost is $25. Those that attend will get a t-shirt and the opportunity to perform at our first home football game on August 26th. Registration forms are available from any cheerleader, Robertsdale Elementary or Robertsdale High School. All forms and payment must be submitted by July 15th to receive free shirt. If anyone needs further info please contact Coach Kroll at 251-424-4356 or Coach Robbins at trobbins@bcbe.org.
100 outstanding high school sophomores who have shown an interest in leadership through service were selected to participate in the annual Capstone Leadership Academy held on The University of Alabama's campus this past March. Congratulations to Jackson Chamberlain, Sophomore at Spanish Fort High School, for being selected for this honorable event.
FHS Students Certified in Personal Finance Course
Fairhope High School is proud to announce that 100 students are now WISE certified in Personal Finance! Students from Ms. Davis and Ms. Bernasconi’s classes were part of a national pilot program to teach Financial Literacy. Americans ages 18-24 spend $211 BILLION annually. This age group has the largest bankruptcy rate. Only 10% of American high school students study Financial Literacy. GO PIRATES!
FMS Students Select Honoree
Representatives from Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation (FEEF) presented Mrs. Kelly Lanicek, 8th grade language arts teacher at Fairhope Middle School, with its 2015-16 Students’ Choice Award. Presenting the award to Mrs. Lanicek is Dr. Jacobs with Urgent Care by the Bay, sponsor of the FEEF award.
Baldwin Co. Graduation Ceremony Baldwin County High School held its graduation ceremony with Jeff Langham as the keynote speaker. Langham, a Bay Minette native, now serves as the Assistant Superintendent for the Alabama State Department of Education. Prior to the ceremony he attended a reception recognizing the senior members of the school’s National Honor Society. He is joined here by students, from left, Riley McCullough, Bailey Emmons, Edgar Eleogo, Todd Lamb, Austin Jernigan, Billy Maslanka and Brayden Wiggins.
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4th Quarter Crown of Character Daphne East Elementary
BMIS Annual Talent Show
The following 5th Grade students are recognized as the Junior Auxiliary of the Eastern Shore Crown of Character recipients at Daphne East Elementary 4th Quarter: Back row left to right: Bryce Nebe, Sterling Scott, Parker Lomax, Alexis Jemison, Molly Jane Stembridge. Front Row left to right: Lily Rogers (3rd quarter recipient), Kiley Minshew, Julie Mathews, Sarah McKenzie. Not pictured: Mark Brightbill and Aidan Mitchell.
Bay Minette Intermediate School held its annual talent show recently showcasing a variety of students and their talents. Judges for the event watched seventeen different acts from dance to stomp and selected the top four. Students were required to audition to win a spot in the competition. Sponsors for the talent show are BMIS teachers Shelly Stewart and Renee Morrison. Pictured l-r: Front-1st place Emily Scarborough, Kaitlin Ganey, and Christin Watson performed a dance; 2nd place Savannah Sellers performed a gymnastics routine; 3rd place Daylan Martin as “Rocky”; and honorable mention Joshua Mason performed “Stomp the Yard.” Back: Judges William Jones-BCHS teacher, Tabitha Shell DavisBCHS teacher/coach, Ben Ragsdale-City Hope Church, and Hoss Mack-Baldwin County Sheriff.
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Autauga County Schools GSMS Student Named Winner in State Farm Contest Megan Bradford, 7th grader at Gulf Shores Middle School, was one of the top ten winners in the Alabama Council on Economic Education's Color the Concepts! Contest sponsored by State Farm. Students demonstrated their learning and knowledge of economic concepts in a creative and fun way by designing a poster. Megan's poster explained taxes and their contribution to the community. She received a certificate and a check for winning!
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GSHS Students Create Art in the Park
The GSHS Visual Arts students partnered with the City of Gulf Shores Recreation Department to help revive the rec park via painting certain sections and designing and painting a mural. The students, led by Visual Arts educator, Austin Boyd and GS Rec Center administrator, Nicole Ard started this process during the 2015-2016 school year and finished up the last week of school. After the initial mural design, (created by 11th grader Dior Brown), was approved, the city provided paints so the student artists could create and “liven-up” the park. “Working with Nicole, “rooster”, and the city has been great! We appreciate the opportunity to help with the community and our students have enjoyed coming out to create and paint. We look forward to helping again!” - Austin Boyd. The city recognized the GSHS visual arts students at the June 13th city council meeting. The following students participated: Jalyn Koonce, Sarah Williams, Sara Pattilo, Amber Morgan, Rony Lee, Regan Butler, Madison Sanders, Grace Martinie, Reed Linum, Lauren Baisch, Georgia Rowe, Brock Graham, Dior Brown, Lindsey Royals, Abby Phillips, Jaylee Dempsey, Jordan Higgs, Austin Nugent, Lindsey DeShazo, Savannah Litton, Bethany Stewart, Dylan Burnett, Ben Malone.
Eastern Shore Art Center Art Camp
Instructed by Nancy Raia, Community Outreach Director at Easter Shore Art Center, students in camp created multiple exciting projects throughout the week, including painting jellyfish for the Art Center's "Art on a Limb" project. Two lifesize jellyfish will cover the light posts in front of Eastern Shore Art Center's building during Art on a Limb. As a sneak peek of what is to come in September find Art on a Limb on Facebook or visit our website, http://www.esartcenter.com/ special-events.php. Pictured Left to right: Brooke Kearney, Michelle Kearney, Kathryn McCammon, Sarah Timmons Sommerville, Merritt Holmes, Elise Brandon.
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Autauga County Schools
Robertsdale Cheerleaders Go for the Gold
Robertsdale High School Cheerleaders just returned from Panama City Beach UCA Cheer Camp, themed "Go for Gold." And that they did. All week both squads received all gold superior ribbons. Varsity brought home game day champions, 1st in cheer and band dance, 2nd in Extreme. JV brought home 2nd Band Dance, 3rd place cheer. 2nd place overall. Both squads brought home spirit sticks, pin it forward awards, and the Whale of a time spirit award. Pictured below, RHS Cheer – L-r: T. Coley, A. Criswell, E. Smith, M. Fellers, J. Butts, J. Landeros, M. Cook, Captain M. Thomas. Bottom L-r: C. Paul, M. Campbell, T. Wilkersen, Captain M. Eakin, Captain M. Campbell, S. Orr. Mascot Boomer the bear. Not pictured Coach Robbins.
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c a b co a ne ch Pictured above, RHS Cheer JV, L-r: M. McCoy, M. Davis, C. Limpscomb, C. Lowery, L. Simmons, M. Moore, E. Spears, Bottom L-r: M. Mosley, co-captain J. Darby, Captain B. Mosley, K. Conner, Coach Kroll, mascots C. Robbins, K, Krebs, A. Kendrick (not-pictured) received spirit sticks, overall awards, and All - Americans.
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Marshall Shoemaker, M.D., and staff
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Give a Book, Build a Future
Having a book read to you at a young age before bed is a common tradition for most families that encourages children to appreciate books. Jeralynn Servos used her love of bedtime stories as a child and concern for those who lack such stories to create the project “Give a Book, Build a Future!” which later earned her the highest award in Girl Scouts, the Gold Award. To earn the Gold Award, Servos had to proceed through a seven-step process, which included creating a plan, taking action, and inspiring others. The “Give a Book, Build a Future!” program was created to provide books to children and families who cannot afford them and to promote early reading. The program is based out of the Prodisee Pantry, a non-profit community ministry providing emergency food and disaster relief. While parents discuss their needs with the Pantry, a volunteer reads to the children and allows them to pick out books that they could take home. After contacting local public, school, and church libraries, Servos was able to collect over 2000 gently used books. When asked about a part of the project that was special to her, Servos said, “I always think about a little boy that chose a book filled with pictures of animals and as the volunteer read to him, he had the biggest smile on his face. After his mother received food assistance, she watched her son continuously laugh at the book. She told the volunteer reader thank you numerous times, especially after she heard he could keep the book. This moment made me feel proud because I could see my project making a difference.” The “Give a Book, Build a Future!” program remains in place at the Prodisee Pantry. Servos hopes that these children will be exposed to books and develop a love of reading, thus building a brighter future.
GSHS All County Softball
Congratulations to the 2016 Gulf Shores High School All County Softball Players, pictured (l-r): Tiffany Hughes, Mackenzie Brasher, Olivia Coaker, Kennedy Cronan.
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Autauga County Schools
Sea Cadets Spend the Month Serving Others
Dunlap Division Naval Sea Cadet Corps had another busy month, in May. The Color Guard had the honor of presenting the colors for Saraland High School’s Senior Awards Night, as well as for their Graduation. They also presented colors at Bellingrath Road Baptist Church for their Senior Dedication. Then again on Memorial Day the color guard presented and posted the colors for the City of Mobile and South Alabama Veterans Council at the National Cemetery on Virginia Street. On May 21st, the unit participated in the Blue Star Salute aboard the USS Alabama for Armed Forces Day. The cadets manned the rails while the senior ranking cadet, Chief Petty Officer Christopher Townsend and newest cadet, Seaman Recruit Olivia Bozeman lowered the wreath in honor of those that serve and have served our country. The Sea Cadets is a program designed for young men and women between the ages of 10 and the completion of high school. The program has a positive influence on these young people, teaching them the importance of patriotism, courage, self-reliance, leadership skills, teamwork, accountability, and military knowledge. Once a cadet has completed the program, they are under no obligation to enter any of the armed forces. However, if they choose to enlist they are normally enlisted at a higher pay grade. The program has an open enrollment – meaning you can join at any time during the year. The Dunlap Division Sea Cadets typically drill once a month at the USCG Aviation Training Center located in Mobile. If you would like more information you can visit the website at www.seacadets.org or email at angela.graham@hotmail.com.
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Fairhope Middle School Students Master Stock Market
Fairhope Middle School recently recognized its students that participated in the Alabama Stock Market Game. The teams of students were members of Kimberly Cooper’s 7th grade gifted and talented Social Studies classes. Out of the 506 teams that took part in the activity throughout the state, FMS student teams captured four of the top ten spots. Each of these four teams made gains of over $11,000 during the two month competition. The following were acknowledged for their outstanding accomplishments: 6th place – Luke Neslen, Collin Matter, Brooke Ryan, and Hannah Hall; 5th place ($50 prize) – Chapman Hartley, Christopher Finch, Bruno Gomes, and Charlie Wood; 4th place ($75 prize) – Ben Hoover, Zackery Cooper, and Courtney Aucoin; and 3rd place ($100 prize) pictured from left to right – Holly Foley, Annalyn Duke, Julia Arhendt, and Mary Everette Toombs.
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Cardboard Boat Regatta “Titanic” Award Winners
Orange Beach Elementary students Ashlynn Bush, Jackson Russ, and Bruno Motta received the "Titanic" Award at the Cardboard Boat Regatta in Gulf Shores in May. Hats off to these Marlins on this great accomplishment!
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Autauga County Schools
Bayshore Students Raise Money for Family Promise
Bayshore Christian School’s Upper School Students recently participated in “Serve Day” to help raise money for Family Promise, a community outreach organization. This ministry helps families who have lost jobs and homes to get back on their feet. The BCS students collected over $650 towards the purchase of supplies and gift cards for the families who are part of the Family Promise outreach. The organization was so blessed by the donations and support of the BCS students. The students helped with painting, cleaning, organizing, and moving furniture. Executive Director, Mike Brokowsky sent Bayshore students these words of appreciation, “I personally want to express my appreciation for how much your group blessed us. Those gift cards will be given to our families and help them with personal items and gas. We also appreciate the labor of love donated at our day center. Thank you so very much, you have been a blessing to this program.”
Sea, Sand, & Stars Open to the Public
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Orange Beach Elementary School is pleased to announce The Steven W. Baker Science and Nature Center, Sea Sand, & Stars will be open to the public this summer! All ages are welcome to come tour our beautiful facility. Visitors will learn about the history of Sea, Sand, & Stars, observe some of the unique and beautiful creatures that share the gulf waters with us, then watch a movie and be amazed by a night sky presentation in our planetarium. We will be open Monday – Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. The weeks of July 11th, 18th & 25th Please call 251-981-5690 to schedule make a tour reservation and visit our website seasandandstars. com for more information.
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Baldwin County Works Toward Workforce Readiness Certification
On June 9, the Baldwin County Education Coalition hosted an official launch event to announce Baldwin County’s participation in the ACT Work Ready Communities program at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center. On a broader scale, the Southwest Alabama Region launched an initiative for each county to obtain certification as an ACT Work Ready Community. Achieving certification demonstrates a community-based framework that links workforce development to education, aligns with economic development needs, and matches individuals to jobs based on skill levels. The foundation of the certification is based at the county-level on individuals earning and employers recognizing the ACT National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) in the hiring process. The NCRC documents a range of essential skills including the ability to understand basic mathematic operations, read and understand documents commonly found in the workplace, and locate information in workplace graphics. Individuals can earn different levels (Platinum, Gold, Silver, or Bronze) of the NCRC based on a minimum score of the ACT Work Keys Assessment. To obtain certification as a Work Ready Community, ACT defines county goals (based on demographics) for the number of individuals earning the NCRC and the number of employers recognizing the NCRC. Goals must be met within two years of the official launch. Baldwin County has currently achieved 58% of its goals and progress toward obtaining certification. A Baldwin County Leadership Team has been formed to assist in meeting the county’s goals: Terry Burkle, Executive Director, Baldwin County Education Coalition; Karen Glover, Director of Workforce Development, Baldwin Economic Development Alliance; Patty Hughston, Dean of Workforce Development, Faulkner State Community College; Hope Zeanah, Assistant Superintendent, Baldwin County Public Schools; Tucker Dorsey, County Commissioner, Baldwin County; Linda Howser, Human Resources Director, UTC Aerospace System; and, Christina Hellmich, Workforce Development Director, Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce. Team members will be presenting to groups across the county in the coming months to solicit employer support of the NCRC and the Work Ready Communities initiative. To learn more or to schedule a presentation, please contact betterbaldwin.com. 25
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Autauga County Schools
Fairhope Elementary Students Learn About Magnets
In April, Fairhope Elementary students visited Mrs. Sherry Rainbolt’s kindergarten classroom, and learned all about magnets! They discovered magnets have a magnetic force and attract objects which contain iron, nickel and cobalt metals! Then, they became scientists and collected and analyzed the data! They tested which objects were magnetic and nonmagnetic! Pictured from left to right: Chance Helton, Owen Lee, Hatcher Myrick, Cooper Calhoun
Bayshore Congratulates Top Students
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Congratulations to Bayshore Christian School’s Valedictorian and Salutatorian, Sara Breslin and Jacob Collins, respectively. Both Sara and Jacob maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout their Senior Year, and have accepted scholarships to the school of their choice. Sara will be attending Auburn University in the Fall to study Biomedical Sciences. Jacob will be attending Union University in the fall and majoring in Business Administration. As members of Bayshore’s first graduating class, Sara and Jacob have set a wonderful example of how to be successful, well-rounded students. Congratulations, Sara and Jacob!
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23050 US Highway 98 | Fairhope, AL 36532 | (251)929-0011 | www.bayshorechristian.org Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016
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John Lennon Educational Tour Bus Visits BCHS
Seven students at Baldwin County High School are now recording artists after spending time aboard the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus. The specialized bus -- loaded with a state-ofthe-art mobile audio and HD video recording and production facility – recently spent the day at BCHS and gave students the chance to work inside a world class recording studio. Assisted by three on-board engineers, the band and chorus students collaborated to write an original song, record the soundtrack and lay down vocals. They also worked together to shoot a video around the campus featuring the original composition. Once edited, the video which will be posted on You Tube. Participating students included Evan White, Jessica Hilliker, Destiny Miskel, Loren Robinson, Traise Leonard, Trevor Wallace, and Madelyn Lyons. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for these students,” said Jeff Lepa, Director of Bands. “This gives them a different view of music and it goes beyond the performance. It shows them how you make your performance ready for the public” from recording to fine-tuning to production. The John Lennon Educational Tour Bus travels the country visiting schools, music and technology conferences and events, and partners with communities and media outlets to call attention to the importance of arts and digital media education. All projects created on board are available for viewing on YouTube. The Lennon Bus has been visited campuses for nearly two decades and has visited Baldwin County schools for the past 10 years. The on-site visit opens up a whole new world of opportunities for students. For more information about the Lennon Tour Bus visit www.lennonbus.org/.
Send School News to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com.
Fairhope Elementary Kindergartners Learn About Solids and Liquids
Mrs. Hailey Duell’s Fairhope Elementary kindergarten students learned about solids and liquids while playing a game with dice and ice cubes. Students had to roll the dice and do experiments with the ice depending on the number rolled. They were able to watch the solid turn to a liquid before their eyes. Students pictured from left to right: Nicole Rodriguez, Tyler Dees, Camille Peacock, Connor Windham, and Trey Byrd. 27
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Autauga County Schools
Education Coalition Offers Convenient, Cost-effective Service for School Backpacks
At the start of the 2016-2017 school year, Baldwin County Public School students in grades three through 12 will receive a Chromebook computer designed to support academic achievement. To keep parents from incurring any fees related to damages, an approved backpack will be required in order for students in grades seven through 12 to take the Chromebook home. The Baldwin County Education Coalition is offering a convenient and costeffective option for quality backpacks that meet the school system’s requirements. The cost includes delivery directly to each family’s home plus a 3% rebate to the Coalition to invest in teacher professional development. The total amount received and how the funds are expended will be shared on the Coalition’s website and reported in its annual informational tax return, form 990. The service is optional. Parents can choose to purchase the backpack online though this program or purchase independently. Students in grades three through six will continue to leave their devices at school. Parents can follow the link included on the last page of the school registration website to order their child’s backpack. They can also order directly through the vendor’s website. Questions regarding the program can be emailed to info@betterbaldwin.com.
Fairhope Kindergartners Study Buoyancy
Ms. Rachel Crocker’s kindergarten students at Fairhope Elementary have been studying buoyancy. What makes things float? The students made a boat of their choice using tin foil and let it float in water. Then, they added as many plastic counting bears as possible without sinking the boat and answered the following questions. How buoyant was your boat and why? How many bear passengers did you have on your boat? Who had the best built boat in the class and why? What would you and your partner do different the next time you built a boat for even better buoyancy? What are somethings in real life that are positively buoyant and what are some that are negatively buoyant? It was such a fun learning day for all! Left to right: Ms. Crocker, Brooklynn, Taylor, Jackson, and Chris
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United Bank Brings Financial Fun to Local Elementary Students
More than 330 students at eight different schools across the region heard from United Bank employees from April through May about the importance of saving as part of the American Bankers Association’s annual Teach Children to Save awareness program. Teach Children to Save was developed by the ABA’s Education Foundation and pairs member banks with local schools and organizations to help students understand the importance of using money wisely. United Bank representatives combined real life and classroom learning with hands-on scenarios to help elementary students explore saving, budgeting, prioritizing and more. “United Bank is committed to social impact and to being a resource for our local schools to complement the valuable work that happens in our classrooms each day,” said Bob Jones, President and CEO of United Bank. “We’re proud to play a role in laying the foundation for a successful financial future for our local students. It’s never too early to begin learning the importance of saving.” Teach Children to Save is a national campaign of volunteer bankers who, since 1997, have helped young people develop lifelong savings habits. It includes Teach Children to Save awareness day; the Lights, Camera, Save! video contest; and the Teach Children to Save website at www. teachchildrentosave.com. About United Bank: United Bank is a $550,000,000 financial institution that has enjoyed 112 years of service. United Bank has offices in Atmore, Flomaton, Monroeville, Frisco City, Greensboro, Bay Minette, Foley, Lillian, Loxley, Magnolia Springs, Silverhill, Spanish Fort and Summerdale in Alabama. United Bank serves Santa Rosa County, Florida in Jay, Milton and Pace. For more information about United Bank please visit our website at www.unitedbank.com. Member FDIC.
6+ Live Animals / 45+ min Show Starting at $225 / We Come To You!
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Keeping Vacation Photos G-Rated Summer vacation photos used to mean snapshots of kids posed in front of landmarks or goofing around with cousins at a family reunion. Only a decade ago, parents knew exactly what photos their kids took if only because the camera was family property and parents had to have the photos developed. Now that cameras are embedded in most cellphones, children can take—and distribute— photos without any consultation with parents. As a result, many young people already have embarrassing and potentially risky photos posted on social networking sites and stored in the cellphones of friends as well as strangers. During the summer, when some kids are bored and less supervised, the odds of making mischief with a camera increase. The thought that some of a child’s vacation photos might be provocative or even nude is understandably distressing to parents. Teens, however, aren’t as appalled as they ought to be. One in four teens has participated in sexting and even more have seen or forwarded the photos. Both genders are involved, though girls suffer disproportionate consequences because boys rarely store or forward photos of naked boys. Technology that will allow parents to preview photos before children send them is likely to be available by the end of the year. For this summer, parents will have to talk— often—about what kinds of photos kids are allowed to take and share. Here’s what you need to know. Start young. Middle school students seem to be at especially high risk for sexting, perhaps because they are just discovering their own sexual feelings and they crave the attention of the opposite sex. Girls, in particuEastern Shore Parents I June 2016
lar, may consider using an intimate photo as a way of showing a boyfriend how much they care. In one of the most thorough studies of sexting to date, researchers from the Crimes against Children Center at the University of New Hampshire pointed out that a large proportion of the pictures involved in sexting are taken and sent voluntarily by children as young as nine. Have repeated conversations. Young people are growing up in a highly sexualized culture. The message that sexting is cool comes from music videos and social media. Pornographic images are less shocking because they are so readily available online. Most young people have seen or at least heard about sexual photos of their peers, so they often start with a “no-big-deal” attitude. Parents will need to talk about this topic often to convince them otherwise. Lectures are pointless. Instead, take advantage of news reports about sexting to start open-ended conversations. Predict consequences. Adolescents are not developmentally ready to think carefully about how today’s impulse may lead to future problems. They need adults to help them anticipate potential difficulties created by sexual photos. Talk your child through various scenarios. If a relationships breaks up, how will the partners feel about sexy pictures they’ve sent to each other? How will they feel if the photo gets forwarded to one person or a thousand people or ten thousand people? What if a pedophile gets hold of the picture and puts it on a website? What if the photo is seen by the principal at school, the pastor at church, younger siblings, older relatives? Making these consequences vivid makes it less likely that a teen will impulsively send a compromising photo. Explain legal issues. Sending sexual photos of someone under 18 fits the legal description for distribution of child pornography. Police and prosecutors vary a great deal in how stringently they enforce the law. As a result, many teens don’t understand the legal risk they incur if they press “forward” on a racy picture. Be sure your child knows that 30
some young people have been prosecuted and labeled as sex offenders, a designation that can have lifelong consequences. Talk about tagging. Tagging is a social media feature that allows people to identify people in photos that they post. Although this can be a harmless way for young people to share their photos, it takes control about what images can be seen online out of your child’s hands. In particular, tagged photos can show up in the public photo strip at the top of your child’s profile page. Even if you aren’t your child’s “friend” on social media, you should regularly search his or her name to see what photos appear. If tagged photos of your child are inappropriate, try to delete them. On Facebook, visit the Account settings in the upper right of the page. Click on Privacy, a section that contains many useful tools for controlling who sees what on Facebook. To control tagged photos, choose “Customize settings,” then “Photos and Videos you’re Tagged In.” Choose “Customize” again and then click “Make this visible to”. Choose “Only Me” from the drop down menu. Even if your child would never send a sexually explicit photo, he or she may receive one from peers. Encouraging kids to report such messages puts them in a conflicted position. No teen wants to be responsible for getting a friend in trouble. You can, however, make it clear that your child can do something positive simply by deleting the photo. Sharing sexually explicit photos may actually make your child an accessory to a crime. Pressing “delete” is a small kindness to the young person foolish enough to distribute homemade pornography. Like any discussion with teens about sexuality, conversations about sexting can be awkward. It’s also natural for parents to think their own child couldn’t possibly be involved. The truth is that even “nice” kids get involved in sexting, so parents need to be proactive. Talking to children now makes it less likely they will share summer vacation photos that will haunt them when they go back to school in the fall. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2016, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved
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Q. Our son is 16, and he just got his first paycheck. He asked us about the best way to manage it, and we’re not sure what to tell him. Do you have any advice?
A. Congratulations on a big moment in your son’s life! I’m sure he’s proud, and I’m glad he has parents who want to teach him how to grow into a financially responsible young man. I think giving is a really big deal at this age. I’d recommend putting 10 percent toward your church or a good, local charity. It’s very important to teach kids about the spiritual and financial benefits of being a giver. The remaining 90 percent you might split evenly between savings and spending in the beginning. You can always go a little heavier on the savings portion if there’s a concrete goal, like college or a car, in mind. The pro-
cess of thinking ahead and setting goals is always a good exercise, too. The goal here, in addition to teaching him the value and benefits or work, is to build the muscles of his character. Financially speaking, as parents, we should want our children to grow to be givers, savers and wise, careful spenders. If they become all three of these when they’re young, they won’t be financially irresponsible adults later!
Q. My mom and dad filed bankruptcy recently and are on a fixed income of $2,200 a month. They gave up their house, and my wife and I helped them find an apartment. We’re also trying to give them other help while they’re getting back on their feet. The problem is, we’re paying off debt and trying to get our own finances in better shape. I think my sister should help out
some, too, but I’m not sure how to approach her about this.
A. It’s not out of line to ask her to help and then gauge her interest and willingness. I mean, it’s your parents we’re talking about. Still, you can’t force someone to do something they can’t do or simply don’t want to do. Before you approach your sister, you might try working up a monthly budget on your parents. It doesn’t have to be complicated — just a one-page document showing their situation. Let her see that mom and dad are struggling right now, and suggest that you both chip in a little each month until they’re back on their feet financially. Don’t point fingers or make accusations, because that will ruin things in a hurry. Family should always try to pull together in times like this. In most cases, things like this work out fine and family bonds become even stronger.
Seize the Summer!
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ParentingToday’sTeens
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by Mark Gregston
Embracing Teen Conflict for Good If your family could be described by a television program, would it be the older than dirt Leave It To Beaver series, or more like the can’t wait till it’s over The Kardashians? Despite every parent’s earnest hopes that their family will look something like the perfect sitcom, I can guarantee there’s going to be some reality TV thrown in there, too. Maybe you’re living some of that reality right now. Your children have hit the teen years and you feel like your home has been thrown into tail-spin. Your teens are seeking increased independence while, as parents, you are trying to let the reigns out slowly. Or perhaps raising your child has always been a battle, causing you to think about waving the white flag and giving up. I get it—the teen years are a challenge! Conflict is a pre-cursor for change. Don’t ignore what is before you as it might just be the greatest opportunity to influence your child… in the midst of some of the hardest parenting times. Mom and Dad, let me offer you some encouragement. While these years are challenging, they also present critical opportunities to guide your teen through the real issues of life. Don’t shy away from these opportunities that appear as headaches and heartaches. Keep engaged with your teen no matter the level of stress on either side. This is where the battle is won for your teen. And this is when you need to be your teen’s best ally not his or her worst nightmare. Here’s some guidelines for dealing with a few challenging examples.
Example #1: The Angry Teen
Maybe the situation you’re facing today is constant conflict with your teen. Let’s first normalize this. Conflict will occur as your teen’s self-interests clash with your desire to look after his or her best interests. Remember, anger is a secondary emotion, so when your teen is angry, look to understand what is the root cause. Be genuinely curious to learn what he or she is feeling and thinking, wanting or needing. Talk to you teen! Don’t match their anger, but ask them to share with you why they are angry. Your calm approach will bring stability to them and their emotions. You may not always be Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016
able to meet their unmet needs or wants, but you can listen to them and learn about them. Most important, you can help them process their deep feelings and frustrations. Sometimes that is enough. You may even be able to relate to them on many levels, remembering when you were a teen. In this way, your teen’s anger can be a doorway for developing an honest and healthy relationship based on mutual love and respect. You may be thinking, “This is impossible!” You may be saying, “You don’t know my kid. He’s unapproachable!” Resist reliving the past or feeling intimidated in the present. Yes, it may start out bumpy, but let you teen know you are going to keep trying, you are going to keep engaging, and you are going to keep loving. It’s been said that “no one cares how much you know until you show how much you care.”
Example #2: The Withdrawn Teen
The withdraw teen is an apathetic teen. Anger indicates they are still passionate and engaged, but apathy indicates they are in the danger zone of disengagement— checked out from everyone and everything. Signs of the withdrawn teen are that the things she used to care about no longer excite her. He has no motivation, no ambition, and lacks any strong emotion. This is the teen who can take parents to the end of their ropes because they seem unreachable. The withdrawn teen can pose a heartwrenching challenge–sometimes calling for the urgent action. First, keep engaging and keep reaching out to your teen in ways that are caring and loving. Again, it’s all about communication. Rather than criticizing them for their apathy, invite them into a dialogue to learn about what is troubling them inside. Let them know that nothing they can tell you will stop you from loving them. Let them know that you are genuinely there to listen and help. Take time out to show you really care. 34
That might mean scheduling a night on the sofa to talk, a walk, a dinner out, or a road trip—whatever will create a real opportunity for real communication. But if your teen won’t talk to you, don’t throw up your hands. You still have options. Suggest that they talk with a trusted therapist or pastor. Many times teens are afraid to share with their parents the truth about their overwhelming feelings and even dark struggles, but they will talk to someone else if given the opportunity. Don’t feel rejected or hurt. Be grateful they want to deal with their issues. If they aren’t talking to you, they need to talk to someone. In addition, a professional can assess whether your teen is dealing with something more than temporary apathy. They can evaluate if serious depression or suicidal thoughts are preventing recovery.
Example #3: The Acting-Out Teen
These are the teens who wake you up in the middle of the night asking you to bail them out of jail. These are the teens who are sexually active, using drugs, drinking alcohol, bullying others, self-harming, have an eating disorder, or are exhibiting some other self-destructive behavior. This is the time for you to resist only focusing on the external issue to look deeper to the motivational driver. When you are tempted to berate your teen for external behaviors, stop to talk about the “why” of what they are doing. This can be illuminating to you and your teen. Often times, your teen hasn’t stop to look at the “why” or where it is taking them. Your teen may be acting out of depression, insecurity, faulty thinking, fear, loss, and peer pressure. While setting healthy boundaries and addressing the behavior, you can also offer your teen desperately needed support, love, and a place to process their pain. Let them know that there is way out and a way up.
Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.
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SUMMER MOVIES & CONCERTSERIES! SERIES! SUMMER MOVIES & CONCERT SUMMER MOVIES & CONCERT SERIES! Summer Movie Summer Movie Schedule The movies areSchedule at dark at 8 p.m. Guests should a blanket or chair on which to sit. The bring movies are at dark at 8 p.m. Guests should bring a blanket or chair on which to sit.
June 18 - The Land Before Time June 25 Land - The Before Lorax Time June 18 - The July 25 2 --Yogi June The Bear Lorax July 29 -- Yogi Surf'sBear Up July July Story July169 -- Toy Surf's Up 1 July 23 16 - Toy Story 21 July 30 23 - Toy Story 32 August 6 -30 Monsters University July - Toy Story 3 August 13 - Zootopia August 6 - Monsters University August 13 - Zootopia
Summer Concert Summer Concert Schedule Schedule All concerts are from from 66 --99 pm All concerts are p.m. All concerts are from 6 -9 pm
June 17 - Light Travelers June Hooks June 24 17 -- The LightReal Travelers July 24 1 - -The June TheReal RealHooks Hooks 8 -Real PEEKHooks July 1July - The July 15July - Fat8 Man Squeeze - PEEK 22Man - PEEK July 15July - Fat Squeeze July 2922 - Glass Joe July - PEEK August 5 - -Roman Street July 29 Glass Joe August 5 - Roman Street
Located in Located in the the Fountain Fountain Courtyard. Courtyard Located in the Fountain Courtyard. Visit EasternShoreCentre.com for complete Visit EasternShoreCentre.com for completedetails detailsand andinformation. information Visit EasternShoreCentre.com for complete details and information.
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Any parent who has survived the middle school years will assure you that you can navigate them, too. Although the honeymoon period of elementary school is over and middle school comes with ample trials and tribulations for most kids, try not to expect the worst. Parents who welcome the challenges of middle school as opportunities for growth will be still be smiling by the time they attend the eighth grade promotion ceremony. Expect your child to face and overcome hurdles in middle school. Middle school is supposed to be about making mistakes and bouncing back from disappointments. Kids who navigate turbulence with spunk will mature in middle school. Kids who struggle with self-awareness and assertiveness are going to need extra support to develop skills they will need in high school.
If you want your kids to thrive in middle school, don’t leave them to their own devices. Parents who expect everything to be hunky dory all the time will likely be disappointed. Parents who think kids can figure everything out for themselves at this age with little adult supervision may want to wake up. This is middle school, the preparation for high school, which is the preparation for college, which is preparation for adulthood. Your child is going to need you each and every day. Middle-schoolers are embarking on a two or three-year journey and they will come out the other end of the process transformed. Whether or not they are changed for the better is largely up to you, parents. Here is a list of some of the challenges middle school kids face and how tuned-in parents can help.
Expressing Individuality. At the end of the summer, sit down with your child and make a list of words that describe who he is. Do this every year before heading back to school to remind your student that he has interests and he’s allowed to like whatever he chooses. This list will evolve over the years, and that’s great, too.
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Expanding Learning Abilities. Middle school is an opportunity to try new ways of learning. Kids will get to do science labs for the first time, peer edit each other’s writing, work on projects with partners or in groups. Talk to your kids about how they are adjusting to these new learning modes so you can help smooth the way.
Dealing With Social Pressures. How much social pressure exists in middle school? Tons. So role up your sleeves, parents, and always be ready to troubleshoot. The best advice takes your child’s personality into account and eschews going along with all the crowds all the time. Middle school is a great time for kids to
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learn how to say, you do things your way and I’ll do things mine.
Keeping Up With School Assignments and Deadlines. Kids tend to procrastinate. Some have trouble understanding that projects and papers must be worked on incrementally to be adequately prepared. A little bit of planning support goes a long way until dreamy tweens can get the hang of due dates.
Navigating The Online World. Your child is carrying a phone, a camera, and a computer in her pocket. Giving kids too much responsibility too soon can lead to extra expenses and shaken confidence. So trust your instincts, parents. You will know when your child is ready to embrace the job of caring for a phone.
Finding Healthy Tribes. Kids will be kids but no parent wants their child hanging out with a bunch of troublemakers. Your child’s peer group has a huge influence on his daily life. Teach your kids to choose friends wisely and to distance themselves from those who make consistently unhealthy choices.
Communicating With Teachers and Coaches. You know how to do this, but now it’s time to let your child step up and converse with authority figures. You can encourage her, confirm it’s happening, and even follow up with adults to make sure your child isn’t blowing you smoke. But let her do it or she won’t learn how.
Confronting Bullies. Not avoiding bullies. Not hiding from bullies. Not doing whatever bullies want so they won’t pick on you. Confronting bullies means being able to stand up to someone being mean to your child whether his friends will back him up or not. Let your kids know you expect them to stand up for themselves and for others in need assistance and watch them do it.
Becoming A Positive Contributor. Everyone hates substitutes. No one likes the new math teacher. That kid is so weird. But guess what, kiddo? It doesn’t mat-
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Bouncing Back From Failure and Disappointments. Perhaps the toughest days in middle school are the not-making-the-cut days or the performing poorly on the test days or the getting sent to the principal days. How you respond to some twist on this trope is important. Kids need to process their feelings before they can bounce back and do the right thing.
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Be calm and patient as you help them figure it all out.
Test-driving Romantic Relationships. Some kids will dive right into relationships in middle school. Others will stay on the sidelines so they can spectate and speculate. Others may not seem interested at all. This is the beginning of practicing intimacy, so be sure to have lots of conversations with your child about the differences between healthy and unhealthy romantic relationships.
Prioritizing Needs. Kids have needs and those needs matter even when life is hectic. Maybe your daughter needs a jog bra for gym class. Maybe she needs a new notebook for algebra. Maybe she needs you to sign a field trip form and write a check. Have a regular plan-theweek meeting on the weekend to discuss what your child is going to need from you and avoid last-minute crunches that create needless stress and bickering.
Learning About The World. There is a whole wide world out there, and now your child is old enough to start learning about all of its complexities. What a great time to teach your child about respecting diversity, tolerating differences, and envisioning a more peaceful world. They can practice all of these principles right in middle school.
Remembering To Rest. Taking nice long baths with soft music and candles. Pulling the black-out curtains for a three-hour afternoon nap. A six-episode, BBC Pride And Prejudice binge-watching sessions to recover from the sniffles. Growing kids need to unwind sometimes, but they may have trouble recognizing this. When this happens, give them a nudge in a decompressing direction.
Shining Despite Speed Bumps. Guess what, parents? Your kid is going to stumble, fall, and maybe even face-plant in middle school. But he will still have plenty of shining moments, where he is ecstatic and in his element. If your child isn’t having enough moments like these, call a family meeting, put your heads together, and look for new opportunities where he is more likely to succeed. ESP Author, journalist, and writing coach Christina Katz is actually a bit sad that the middle school adventures are over. But she’s looking forward to the challenges that high school will bring.
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Light Up the Toy Box There is an abundance of toys featuring various kinds of illumination on the market. Because the human eye naturally seeks out contrast between light and dark, lights are understandably popular additions that inject extra flash into playtime. Adding glow-in-the-dark features to toys and games that also motivate a degree of assembly double down on honing kids’ attention to play. Cultivate a child’s
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
focus with the following illuminating choices that command attention as they brighten up the play landscape.
by Gerry Paige Smith
Sands Alive Glow Super Set
Max Traxxx R/C Tracer Racers
Sand castle construction rises to a new level with the Sands Alive Glow Super Set. Featuring three pounds of sand that not only glows under black light, but also holds light and designs ‘drawn’ with a UV pen (included), the possibilities for creative sand design are endless. The set comes with a large play tray to minimize mess and also includes shape molds, rollers, and special UV glasses so young sand sculptors can review their glowing handiwork in real time. Glow-inthe-dark technology, creativity and traditional sand play combine in an all-in-one great play set for kids who like to sink their hands into a good time.
Traditional race tracks can’t hold a candle to the glowing features offered in the Max Traxxx R/C Tracer Racer Starter Set. With twenty feet of glow-in-the-dark race track, designing a challenging course is only half the fun. The two R/C vehicles (included) feature undercarriage lights which leave a trail of illumination on the race way as they scorch along the tracks. The tracks are easy to assemble and the cars operate at variable speeds – until the drivers are ready to really open them up and blaze down the straight way. In dim lighting, the magnificent effects produced by the bright racers on this track will bring the grandstands and drivers to their feet!
Glow-in-the-Dark Celestial Connectagons
Laser Pegs 12-in-1 Race Car Building Set
Looking at the night sky over time reveals a stellar panorama with points of light that are always moving and changing. Reflecting the shifting puzzle of the heavens, Hearthsong’s Glow-in-the-Dark Celestial Connectagon set includes 157-piece interlocking pieces that feature moon phases, constellations, and galaxies rendered in glowing paint. How the parts connect is at the command of the builder – tall and towering, broad and expansive – the universe is theirs to illuminate. The longer the construct is exposed to light, the brighter the features will glow-in-the-dark. Just like the universe, the Celestial Connectagon Set is an expanding exploration that punctuates the dark with magical points of light.
Building a car is just one of the possibilities that can emerge into the light with the Laser Pegs 12-in1 Race Car Building Set. With 84 tinted construction elements and 20 laser pegs, young modelers can use the instructions to craft a rocket, a robot, a submarine and more glowing marvels (in addition to the sleek race car design). Once the models are complete they easily connect to the battery-operated power base and come to life with hypnotically beautiful illumination. Supporting creative reasoning alongside directed design, this set lights up the modeling landscape with its versatility and bright vision.
(Max Traxxx)
(Sands Alive)
(Laser Pegs)
(Hearthsong)
Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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Birthday Traditions You’ll Want to Try By Kerrie McLoughlin
told how they were meant to be brought into the family and how special they are.
Every year when I was a kid my parents would let me choose where I wanted to eat dinner out
2. Birthday letter.
for my birthday. Another birthday tradition they
Every year I type up a birthday letter for each of my children telling them what great things they did and said and learned during the past year. I give the birthday child a copy, then save a copy in a binder and on my computer for myself because we all know kids can’t keep track of stuff. The plan is to give each of my children a copy of all their letters when they move out, which means they’ll have somewhere between 18 and 30 letters to enjoy!
kept going was to have a small party for me with family and friends, including a cookout since I have a June birthday. Kids love to feel special, and it can be a challenge to find the time to come up with ways to make a birthday a knockout. Never fear! Below are 8 ideas for birthday
3. Birthday slideshow.
traditions to start with your own kids. Pick and
With just a few clicks of your mouse you can create a special slideshow using PowerPoint or a similar computer program. Just pop in photos, size them and add cute captions. You can even add some music if you like. After your child watches it about a zillion times, save it to a CD and pop it in a special place (safe deposit box, fireproof box, etc.) so your child will always have it.
choose a few of them each year…and stick with the ones you and your birthday kid love! 1. Rise and shine. I like to wake my kids up on their birthday not with, “Get up! It’s time for school!” but with an extra long snuggle and the condensed version of the day they were born. Who doesn’t like to hear their birth story?! Adopted and foster children can be
Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016
4. Photos. I try to take as many pictures as I can on birthdays and even make sure I’m included in some of them, since I’m the mom
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and all! Later we like to get out old photo albums and the birthday kid’s baby album.
5. Special meal. One of my kids loves the neighborhood restaurant where they sing Happy Birthday and are given a balloon to take home. Another is content heading to the local fast food indoor play area and grabbing bites of food in between trips down the slide. Make at least one meal of the birthday child’s day something out of the ordinary!
6. Special treat. We like to hit the cupcake restaurant or grab huge, frosted cookies from a local baker and share with our friends and neighbors to spread the celebration around. A cheap – and just as special – route would be to make your child’s favorite dessert at home…cookies, cake, banana splits, shakes or ice cream sundaes are always a good bet. Depending on which fruit is in season (or go frozen!), a decadent fruit smoothie made with frozen yogurt could be nice.
7. Party (doesn’t have to be on the actual birthday). If you get a few gray hairs every time you think of planning a birthday party, don’t fret. Options include: a simple party at your place with just a few people, a bash at a park shelter or a celebration where a local children’s party place does all the work.
8. Birthday weekend sleepover with a few special friends (for kids over age 7). Warning: this one is not for the faint of heart! I suggest a maximum of 3 friends to stay the night at your house on a Friday night around the time of your child’s birthday. Order pizza to make life easy on yourself, grab some movies from the library and have them set up their sleeping bags as far away from your bedroom as possible. ESP
Kerrie McLoughlin is the proud and kooky mom of five. Check out their adventures at TheKerrieShow.com.
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Faith Family Fellowship
Email: tpconbay@gmail.com
Barnwell Baptist Church
“Surf Shack”
July 11 – 15, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Open to ages K4 – Rising 5th grade. For more infor-
July 25 – 29, 8:30 a.m. -11:30 a.m. 7780 US Highway 98, Fairhope (251) 928-8286; www.barnwellbaptist.org Email: rcohronpmc@aol.com “Cave Quest” – Following Jesus, The Light of the World” Open to ages K - 5th grade. For registration and information, contact Robyn at the number or email listed above. A commencement service and refreshments will be Friday, July 29 at 5:30 p.m.
(ad on page 36)
mation, contact Jamie at (251) 621-0775.
7100 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort (251) 626-1379; www.faithfamilyonline.com “Submerged” Open to children who have completed K3 through 4th grade. Register online.
Jubilee Baptist Church (ad on page 38)
July 11 - 15, 5:15 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Gulf Shores United Methodist Church July 11 - 14, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 1900 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores (251) 968-2411; www.gulfshoresumc.org
9264 Pleasant Road, Daphne (251) 621-7095; www.jubileebaptist.com Email: john@jubileebaptist.com
First Presbyterian Gulf Shores
“Submerged”
July 25 – 29, 9 a.m. – 12 noon 309 E 21st Avenue, Gulf Shores (251) 968-7720; www.gulfshoresfirstpresbyterian.org “Cave Quest” Gear up for an over-the-top underground adventure. Registration available online or by calling the church office. Open to those entering
Open to ages 3 years - 6th grade (completed). VBS
Email: lee@gulfshoresumc.org
Dinner served at 5:15 p.m. VBS following from 6 - 8
“Surf Shack” Open to ages 4 years (by Sept 1st) - 6th grade. Registration is available online and at the church office. Family Picnic Friday will be July 15th at 6:00 p.m.
Trinity Presbyterian Church July 11 - 15, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 545 South Mobile Street, Fairhope (251) 928-2524; www.tpcfairhope.org
p.m. Online registration at www.jubileebaptist.com. For more information, contact the church office.
grades 1 through 4.
Grace Fellowship, PCA July 11 – 15, 5:30 – 7pm 1740 South Juniper Street, Foley (251) 968-5302; www.gracefellowship-pca.com Email: gfpca.gulfcoast@gmail.com
**Note** Eastern Shore Parents makes every attempt to list the correct information regarding dates, times, etc. However, some events may change after the deadline for publication. Please check the event before attending.
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New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.
Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!
We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?
Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...
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first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse. Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness... I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,
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FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF
We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.
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Cakes and Treats A Specialty Bakery & Party Shoppe
217 East 16th Avenue , Gulf Shores We specialize in birthday cakes, wedding cakes, holiday sweets, and other specialty occasions. We also make cupcakes, specialized cookies, petit fours and much more! Visit us on Facebook. (251) 968-2253
Andree’s Wine, Cheese & Things
403 Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope Andree’s offers birthday and special event cakes of all sizes with a wide variety of cake flavors, fillings and icings. Visit us on Facebook to see photos. (251) 968-2253
www.andreesonline.com
Chocolate Corner
200 West Fort Morgan Road , Gulf Shores We are a locally owned business that specializes in chocolate pops, barks, truffles and fudge make great treats for any event. We can also package in goodies bags for party favors! (251) 948-2462
www.chocolatecorner.com
Couture Cakes
1905 Main Street, Daphne Couture Cakes can custom design the perfect cake for all occasions and themes. Visit us on Facebook to see pictures of our wonderful creations! (251) 626-9895
Dipping Dots
22989 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Mobile (251) 378-5460
www.dippindots.com
(251) 974-3687
www.dippindots.com
(251) 224-3687
www.dippindots.com
22989 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach 4651 Main Street, Orange Beach (The Wharf) The original beaded ice cream is available in your area! Stop into our location at The Wharf and sample some of our delicious flavors. Ask us about catering, birthday parties, fundraising and more!
Edible Arrangements
6890 US Highway 90, Daphne Edible Arrangements offers delicious fresh fruit arrangements, baskets, bouquets and other delightful tasty gifts. Visit our website to see the wonderful children’s selection, Kids at Heart complete with Disney, Sesame Street, Hello Kitty and Disney Princess arrangements.
and at LuLu’s in Gulf Shores. Call today to schedule our cart at your next event or come by one of
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FRIOS Gourmet Pops at Windmill Market
85 North Bancroft Street, Fairhope Have a Frios Cart come to your Birthday celebration for a delicious and healthy frozen treat for you and your guests! Our carts are out and about at festivals, special events, and available for private parties and corporate events. We are also located inside the Windmill Market in downtown Fairhope and at LuLu’s in Gulf Shores. Call today to schedule our cart at your next event or come by one of our locations for an awesome summer treat! Visit us on Instagram and Twitter @friosfairhope. (251) 581-1909
www.friospops.com
FRIOS Pops at LuLu’s Homeport Marina
200 East 25th Avenue, Gulf Shores Have a Frios Cart come to your Birthday celebration for a delicious and healthy frozen treat for you and your guests! Our carts are out and about at festivals, special events, and available for private parties and corporate events. We are also located inside the Windmill Market in downtown Fairhope
New Private Cabana’s are now available. Reserve yours today Call 251-948-7026
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So our locations for an awesome summer treat! Visit us on Instagram and Twitter @friosfairhope. (251) 967-5858
www.friospops.com
Gourmet Goodies
11101 County Road 64, Daphne Gourmet Goodies offers Birthday Cakes, Smash Cakes, Cup Cakes, Cake Pops, Cookies, and much more! Call or email us today to order your child’s next party treat. Visit us on Facebook to view photos of items we offer. (256) 565-5521
www.facebook.com/gourmetgoodies
Great American Cookie Company
30500 State Highway 181 , Spanish Fort (Eastern Shore Centre) We do all kinds of cookie cakes for all occasions. We bake fresh every day. Say it with a cookie cake!
Come hang out with Elsa and Anna Sunday, July 17 from 11am - 2pm
DUNE RACER · FLOWRIDER · LAZY RIVER · ROLLER COASTER · HOUSE OF BOUNCE · STARCADE · SCREAMIN’ DEAMON · MINI-GOLF · AND MORE!
906 Gulf Shores Parkway • Gulf Shores, AL • 251.948.2106 Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016
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Visit our website for more information. Hours are Monday - Saturday 12 p.m. - 9 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
tions, announcements or thank-you notes. We can help you with all of your special occasions, private parties and private group classes!
Hope’s Cheesecake
Stationery Studio
(251) 621-7977
www.greatamericancookies.com
210 East 20th Avenue, Gulf Shores Hope’s is a gourmet desserts bakery staffed by bakers with more than 30 years baking experience. We are dedicated to making the best and most delicious cheesecakes, cupcakes and a variety of other desserts and delivering them to you “dinner party ready”. (251) 968-5858
www.hopescheesecake.com
Marble Slab Creamery
30500 Hwy 181, Spanish Ft (Eastern Shore Centre) Marble Slab Creamery can help turn any event into a special occasion. Whether you want a Sundae Bar, Portable Slab* where we bring The Slab to you! Ice cream cakes to match your theme are available. Hours are Monday - Saturday 11:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 p.m.- 5:00 p.m. (251) 621-7900
www.marbleslab.com
Something Sweet
1712 Main Street, Daphne Something Sweet offers many different kinds of cupcakes along with bar cookies and cakes. Please call and speak with someone to place an order. (251) 621-2253
Stampin’ Up
www.sweettreatsdaphne.com
Create your own one-of-a kind, hand-made invita-
www.stampinturtles.com
(251) 454-9545
www.fairhopefinepaper.com
10198 US Highway 31, Spanish Fort No matter the occasion Little Cake Shop can create the perfect cake for you. Visit us on Facebook to see photos. Our specialists are available to answer any questions. Hours are Monday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Fridays 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (251) 621-9097
759 Nichols Drive, Fairhope Warehouse Bakery is a made from scratch eatery, specialty donut shop and bakery.
www.warehousebakeryanddonuts.com
Weir Delicious
Adorable custom decorated cookies perfect for any celebration. www.weirdelicious.com
www.animaledzoocation.com
Eastern Shore Inflatables ad on page 7
We offer a diverse inventory of entertainment from inflatable water & dry slides, bounce houses, mechanical rides, concessions, catering and offer free delivery and setup. We can even finish the event with a fireworks show! (251) 509-2625
Warehouse Bakery
(601) 668-6869
Live Exotic Animal Birthday Parties! Animal Tales conducts educational programs for over 900 schools and libraries annually in 15 states. We bring our animals to your location for a unique birthday party experience. 6+ animals of your choice, 45-50 minute show. Serving a 300-mile radius around Pensacola, FL. (800) 589-5408 Ext.2
The Little Cake Shop
(251) 928-7223
Animal Tales, LLC ad on page 29
412 Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope We have a great selection of invitations for every occasion and every event! We have several themes from silly to sophisticated and formal to festive! Call Kristen to make an appointment! (251) 990-9940
Entertainment to You
www.esjump.com
Knockerball ad on page 49
Get in the ball with Knockerball! A Knockerball™ is a single chamber inflatable sphere with inner handles and adjustable shoulder straps. Knockerballs™ can be used singularly to perfect your rolls, flips, and wheels or can be used with two or more to enter a realm of rip roaring, knocking fun times. We provide the full setup of the Knockerballs™ (delivery, inflation and breakdown). We will also
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provide you with some options of “games” to play and soccer nets & soccer ball with a minimum rental of 6 balls. For parties we offer music, bottled water, Game Host and assistant( stay for the entire party), generator, prizes/giveaways, and games. 850-288-1035
www.knockerballpensacola.com
On Sight Entertainment ad on page 49
On Sight Entertainment brings the best Mobile Video Game Truck Party right to your front door. Our luxury, limo-style mobile game theater on wheels features 7 widescreen high-def. TVs, surround sound and multiplayer gaming excitement! 28 can game at the same time! We have the latest titles from Xbox 360, Xbox One, Wii, Wii U and PlayStation 4! Weekend rates are $249 for 90 minutes, $299 for 2 hours ($99 extra hour). Weekday rates are $199 for 90 minutes, $249 for 2 hours ($99 extra hour) 251-207-8102
www.onsightentertainment.com
Azalea City DJ’s – “Dr. Feelgood”
DJ for all types of events: weddings, receptions, high school events, middle school events, elementary school events, bat mitzvah or bar mitzvah; you name it, we do it! Visit us on Facebook! (251) 689-6226
DK the Clown
Let DK the Clown entertain at your next event. DK is a Graduate of the Circus Clown School, a member of the World Clown Association and is Licensed and Insured. Balloon Artist, Face Painting and Entertainment. (251) 554-2874
Dr. Gee’s Magic and Balloons
Dr. Gee’s offers Balloons and Magic for parties, promotions and events. Dr. Gee makes your event exciting with magic and creative balloons sculpting. Dr. Gee entertains in Mobile, Eastern Shore, Mississippi and Florida. (251) 662-7415 www.facebook.com/DrGees MagicandBalloons
Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016
Drop Zone Inflatables
Drop Zone Inflatables will make your party the best one ever! Offering bounce houses, water slides and more! For information please email or call. Hours: Monday – Sunday 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (251) 604-9132
www.dropzoneinflatables.com
Famous Friendz
(251) 923-7279
We help bring your child’s party to life! We have lots of Famous Friendz to choose from that can come and visit your party or special event. Visit us on Facebook for photos and updates. (251) 581-2822
Gulf Coast Events & Rentals
11133 Old Highway 31, Spanish Fort We can help customize your next fundraiser, wedding, birthday party or special occasion to be remembered for years to come! We offer waterslides, inflatables, concessions equipment, tables, chairs, tents, carnival games, and more. Although walk-ins are always welcome, we encourage you to call and schedule an appointment. Hours are Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (251) 621-1233
rable. We offer bouncers, dry slides, water slides, adventure obstacles, interactive inflatable games and marketing promotions. Serving Bay Minette, Bon Secour, Daphne, Fairhope, Foley, Gulf Shores, Loxley, Magnolia Springs, Mobile, Montrose, Orange Beach, Robertsdale, Pensacola, Summerdale and Silverhill.
www.gceventsandrentals.com
GyroSpace
We provide unique fun for children and adults at birthdays, church events, corporate gatherings, therapy sessions and more. Each person powers and controls their own gyroscope at the pace they enjoy. We bring everything to your party location. Visit us on Facebook for photos. Call or email us to schedule your event.
www.just4funinflatables.net
Miller’s Grand Events
25341 State Highway 181, Daphne Hours are Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Closed on Sundays. Birthday Parties, corporate events, wedding receptions, fundraisers or graduation parties. With our expanding inventory of rental products, event coordinators and seasonal retail party supplies. We can offer total event packages. (251) 625-4910
www.millersgrandevents.com
Outdoor Fun Inflatables
We offer water inflatables, dry inflatables, tents, tables and chairs and more! We deliver to you. Visit us on Facebook or our website for photos of inventory. Call to reserve your next rental today! (251) 923-7719 or (251) 979-4381 inflatables.com
www.outdoorfun-
Tanglewood Theatrical Services of Mobile
Jon offers a variety of services for every event including magic tricks, face painting (full face or cheek art) and balloon sculpting!
We offer face painting for parties of all sizes, balloon arches, custom murals and backdrops, custom artwork and calligraphy. We can provide custom certificates, invitations, table decorations, specialty props and custom made costumes. We also specialize in entertainment ranging from dance to theatricals. We have over 20 years combined experience in theater, so we know that atmosphere is everything. For more information call for appointments and reservations. Visit us on Facebook for photos!
Just 4 Fun Inflatables
The Game Machine
(251) 654-1311
Jon the Balloon Guy
(251) 447-7164
www.jontheballoonguy.com
For your special occasion, depend on Just 4 Fun Inflatables to make your party easy, fun and memo-
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(251) 510-0654
The Game Machine is a 28ft Trailer ready for your party crew to have tons of fun playing video games
www.easternshoreparents.com
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YogoKids
YoGoKids is filled with songs, stories, props and opportunities to interact. Lisa Wells and her team of certified yoga instructors provide yoga mats, towels, essential oils and calming Zen music to create a fun and refreshing yoga experience for any age group and skill level. YoGoKids is filled with songs, stories, props and opportunities to interact. (251) 401-0553
www.yogokids.org
(251) 209-9986 or (251) 656-0096 machine.biz
www.thegame-
Weabo the Clown
Mike Weaver, Owner. Balloon artist, clown, and face painting, Perfect for parties, picnics and all special events. (251) 463-4939 or (251) 463-4938
Amusement Parks and Adventure Alligator Alley ad on page 56
(251) 946-2483
www.gatoralleyfarm.com
Estuarium at Dauphin Island Sea Lab ad on page 50
Places to Party-
on Four 55 inch screens. Up to 16 Players can play inside an air conditioned, stadium seating, Game Machine. Offering services for Birthday parties, Corporate Events, Community Day Events, Day Camp and Church events. Visit us on Facebook.
800 pounds, and has the world’s strongest bite ever recorded from an Alligator. You’ll also observe other wild life such as: Ospreys, Owls, Turtles, Bull Frogs, and various field animals. Birthday Parties: $250 includes 20 people. $8 for each additional adult and $6 for each additional child (our group rate). In our gift shop area, we also display other amphibians, reptiles, and rare species of various field animals.
19500 County Road 71, Summerdale With over 20 acres of natural cypress swamp land, our alligators roam freely in a protected environment. The whole family can safely observe alligators feeding, courting, and nesting from our elevated boardwalk. At Alligator Alley, we currently have over 150 alligators from the hatchlings in our gift shop to the big alligators in our swamp land. Enjoy a nature walk to our various exhibits as you journey towards the big swamp, and the ultimate king of Alligator Alley, Captain Crunch! This world record gator is over 13’ long, weighs over
101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island Host your birthday party at the Estuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Both entertaining and educational, the aquatic and hands on exhibits provide hours of excitement for your party guests. Event bookings include a 4 hour rental of our party room in the morning or afternoon for approximately 35-40 persons with free admission to the Estuarium included. Call for more information. (251) 861-2141 ext. 7000
www.disl.org
The Wharf Putt-Putt ad on page 15
23200 Wharf Lane, Orange Beach Call for party rates. Picnic tables and umbrellas available for parties. (251) 974-1870 www.alwharf.com/directory/ wharf%20putt-putt.htm
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USS Alabama Battleship
s ch a,
2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile Celebrate your child’s next birthday aboard the Battleship USS ALABAMA. Your guests will enjoy touring the Battleship USS ALABAMA, the Submarine USS DRUM, and the Aircraft Pavilion. Please call to schedule your next party.
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ad on page 37
(251) 433-2703
www.ussalabama.com
Waterville, USA ad on page 46
906 Gulf Shores Parkway , Gulf Shores Waterville USA is a beautiful, fun and safe setting for your group outing. Our park offers something for everyone from the smallest tyke to adults. It’s fun for people of all ages! Join the family fun with the Waterpark, Flowrider, Mini Golf, Bounce House, Go-Karts, Arcade, Rollercoaster and much more! For park dates and times please visit watervilleusa.com. Take advantage of the discount with a SEASON PASS! Contact us for detailed birthday information. (251) 948-2106
www.watervilleusa.com
Adventure Island
24559 Perdido Beach Boulevard , Orange Beach Visit our website for detailed birthday party packages and information. A minimum of 6 party guests are required. Children may be added for an additional charge. Tables are reserved for 2 hours. Birthday Parties are limited to the honoree being 14 years of age or younger. Parties must be reserved 48 hours in advance. (251) 974-1500
www.adventure-island.com
Back Country Trail
3801 Orange Beach Boulevard , Orange Beach Bike or Hike to your next family picnic, birthday party, or field trip on the Backcountry Trail. Enjoy bouldering, geocaching, Eco tours and the butterfly garden as you tour 15 miles of scenic trails through Gulf State Park. Visit our website for more great activities. (251) 981-1180 or (251) 948-7275 www.backcountrytrail.com
Looking for something different than the old runof-the-mill birthday party? We can customize the theme of the party based on your child’s interest and either host the party at our location or bring the party to you. www.bricks4kidz.com/mobile
Dolphin & Sunset Cruise
4673 Wharf Parkway, Orange Beach Experience wild dolphin and other marine wildlife as The Sunny Lady cruise boat takes visitors out into the scenic Orange Beach back bays. The Sunny Lady is a 65-foot Bonner walk-around vessel with three decks and includes a glass bottom viewing area, snack bar and restrooms. The Sunny Lady is also available for charter for special occasions including birthday parties. (251) 589-7117
(251) 968-4386
www.dolphincruiseorangebeach.com
Dolphins Down Under
27267 Perdido Beach Boulevard , Orange Beach Dolphin, Pirate and Luau parties are the way to
www.dolphinsdownunder.net
Exploreum
65 Government Street, Mobile We’ve got children’s birthday parties down to a science. When you book with us, you relax while we do all the work. We provide your invitations, party favors, a uniquely themed cake and a fun experiment to entertain your child and his or her guests. It also includes One hour in a designated exhibit hall prior to party (enjoy all Exploreum afterwards), one hour in the birthday party room, gift for the birthday child, tablecloths, plates, napkins, forks, decorations and drinks. We’ll even handle cleaning up! (251) 208-6880
www.exploreum.com
Celebrations
Fairhope Sewing School
Our sewing party package is for children ages 9 and up and for all skill levels. Party goers learn to use a sewing machine while creating a project. All parties take place in our school with our staff and up to 6 participants. We host parties on Friday evening starting at 6:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday times start in the afternoon as early as 1:30 p.m. last party time start time will be 6:30 p.m. Parties last about 2 hours and cost $200. Please call or email us for reservations and specific party information. (251) 442-4472
www.fairhopesewingschool.com
Five Rivers Delta Safaris
30841 Fiver Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Delta Safaris offers boat based Birthday Parties for up to 42 guests aboard our fully covered USCG passenger vessel “Osprey”. Party includes a 1-hour boat tour, themed cake and individual ice cream for the partygoers. (A variety of themes are available). We include all plates, napkins, and forks for the cake. Additional activity add on options are available. Prices vary, please request a custom quote. Reservations are required. (251) 259-8531
Bricks 4 Kidz
(251) 300-4796
go at the beach! Celebrate aboard a Glass-bottom dolphin boat while searching for dolphins! Our dolphin boats are safe, sturdy and ready for your child’s birthday bash. We offer party supplies and cake or have the vessel catered. Kids and Adults will remember this unique and exciting celebration for years to come! Please call for reservations.
www.5RDS.com
Pirate Ship Cruises and Alabama Cruises 4575 South Wilson Boulevard , Orange Beach Sail on our Orange Beach Pirate Cruise and bring your young pirates aboard for an adventure on Terry Cove. Our pirate ship is an allwooden boat, designed to match the replica of The Pinta. We also offer cruises on our paddle wheel boat that holds up to 150 people. Private Dinner Cruises consist of a 2 hour cruise from Hudson Marina into Terry Cove, to Bayou St. John into the mouth of Perdido Bay and back. For more specific information, call or visit our website. (251) 981-4127
www.hudsonmarina.net
day spa appointments
neW loCation!
Pirate’s Island Golf
3201 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores Come celebrate your special day at Pirate’s Island Adventure Golf. The adventures and legends of infamous pirates come to life in our award-winning theme park settings. Putt your
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way through caves, over footbridges, and under cascading waterfalls, all amidst a fun-filled atmosphere of natural wonders, extraordinary landscaping, and enchanting pirate lore.
Places to Party-
The Track
Kangarooz
(251) 968-4653
www.piratesislandgolf.com
3200 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores The Track offers a 2 hour unlimited armband for groups of 20 or more. Please book these groups during armband availability periods. It is recommended to schedule these events 1 week in advance. The Track offers many activities including miniature golf, go karts, bumper boats, Kids Country, Bungee, Sky Flyer and several fun games. (251) 968-8111
www.gulfshorestrack.com
Wales West RV Resort & Light Railway
13670 Smiley Street, Silverhill At Wales West, we can design a party to fit your needs. We have a large room, kitchen and deck overlooking the lake. We have an RV Park on site and other amenities include a petting zoo, party barn, Real English Steam Train, indoor heated pool, playground, and lake with waterfall. You can also enjoy fishing and pedal boats. Wales West offers catering for your event. For information and book your next party call or email us. (888) 569-5337 or (251) 752-5426 www.waleswest.com
Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016
Arcades, Sports and Indoor Fun
square feet of fun and excitement, located on the upper level of the Wharf. For more information call or visit our website. Open Monday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Sundays from 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (251) 224-5297(LAZR
www.arenaorangebeach.com
Breakout Games - Orange Beach
ad on page 53
31000 Bass Pro Drive, Spanish Fort (Next to Bass Pro Shop) At Kangarooz Family Fun Center we strive to offer the best in family entertainment. Our company goal is to provide a safe, clean place for your family to play with excellent guest services. Each party includes a party host, admission for each party guest, a private themed party room for 2 hours, drinks, pizza, games, ice cream cups, invitations and paper products, a visit from the Kangarooz mascot, and a gift for the birthday child. We do have additional items available at an extra cost. All you have to do is bring the cake! Call to check availability and reserve your party today. For more information contact our Spanish Fort location. (251) 382-1973 or (251) 219-4290 www.mykangarooz.com
Arena-The Next Level Laser Tag/Bazookaball 4720 Main Street, Orange Beach (at The Wharf) Visit us for Great entertainment for all ages, and perfect for birthday parties, civic outings, and family vacations. We offer Laser Tag and Bazooka Ball as well as arcade games. Our facility is over 10,000
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4776 Main Street (Space L-208), Orange Beach Each Breakout game is a real-life escape room adventure for a small group. Work together as a team to escape the room before time runs out. Great for groups of friends, family get togethers or coworkers. Under age 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Visit our website for more information. Visit us on Facebook! (251) 929-8330
www.breakoutorangebeach.com
Eastern Shore Lanes
10460 Eastern Shore Boulevard, Spanish Fort (behind Eastern Shore Centre) Eastern Shore Lanes offers several party packages for all ages. Laser Tag and the game center are available for an added fee. All party packages come with a party host/hostess, games, party room, and arcade card for each guest, pizza, drinks and bowling! For more information and detailed party packages visit our website. (251) 625-3400
www.eslanes.com
Fat Daddy’s Arcade
24565 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach Fat Daddy’s now has 3 locations to make your
www.easternshoreparents.com
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birthday special. Fat Daddy’s Arcade is the place to party, Rain or Shine! Our Orange Beach location features approximately 65 games. Have a Pizza and arcade party. We have several party packages to choose from including pizza, tokens, drinks, and party space with a party host. Call us for specific details and to book your next party! (251) 980-1050
www.fatdaddysarcadeorangebeach.com
Hot Wheels Skate Center
616 Whispering Pines Road, Daphne Hot Wheels provides great party packages that includes skating and skate rental. We offer soft drinks, pizza, place settings and invitations. We also offer special VIP Parties for tweens. Visit our website to view details of each party package. Call to book your next skate party! Reservations required. (251) 626-5120
www.hotwheelsdaphne.com
Magnolia Farms Paintball
15275 County Road 49, Summerdale Our party package is $200 for 6 players and includes paintball gear and 500 Paintballs per player. Each additional player is $30. The party will last about 3 hours. Magnolia Farms Paintball has party tents for you to enjoy along with a party host. Please call and get your party scheduled today! (251) 605-7216
www.magnoliafarmspaintball.com
Mobile Bay Bears Birthday Parties
755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard, Mobile Hit a home run when you plan your child’s next birthday party! The Bay Bears party package includes 12 baseline box seats, 1 dozen cupcakes from Simply Sweet Cupcake Boutique, a reserved party area and a video board welcome. The birthday child will receive a souvenir baseball and throw out a first pitch! Package prices start at $140 and additional seats are available at the group rate. Call for detailed package options and reservations. (251) 479-2327
www.mobilebaybears.com
The Factory
18948 Oak Road West, Gulf Shores Whether you are throwing a private birthday party or want to pull an all-nighter with 40 friends, you’ve found the right spot. Our state of the art recreation center will serve all your needs–just bring the party to us! Visit our website fro party packages starting at just $122.50 (plus tax). (251) 202-0900
www.thefactorygulfshores.com
The Gulf Bowl
www.gulfbowl.com
Art, Spa and Tea Parties Charming Teacup ad on page 41
17111 Scenic Highway 98, Point Clear (Inside Punta Clara Candy Kitchen Historic Home) Give your little girl a birthday she’ll always remember! Charming Victorian Tea Parties for little ladies ages 3-12. We provide the gorgeous gowns, fancy hats, jewelry and a full tea service on dainty china. Etiquette, ballroom dancing, and games also included. You won’t have to lift a finger! We have 6 fabulous party packages to choose from. We also have party packages for baby/bridal showers, graduations or just fun with the girls! Spaces fill quickly so book your party today! (251) 300-0231
www.charmingteacup.com
P’zazz Art Studio ad on page 12
2881 South Juniper Street, Foley (behind Tanger Outlet) Have your birthday party, church group, clubs and company parties and The Gulf Bowl. Come visit the restaurant and arcade for tons of family fun! Please call for party schedules and reservations. (251) 943-4575
Places to Party-
456-A North Section Street, Fairhope Book your next Paint Party with P’zazz! Children will have the use of our studio for 2 hours, a 16x20 canvas for each guest, supplies and instruction on how to paint the picture of your choice. Visit our website to view the many art pieces to choose from. For info and to book your party, call us today. (251) 802-1009
www.fairhope.pzazzart.com
Kangarooz Family Fun Centers www.mykangarooz.com
We are a 23,000 sf indoor playground with multiple jumpers, video games, cafe, stage, make believe styles, and 5 party rooms.
We have Great Birthday Parties Our parties start at $195 for 10 children. There is a $100 nonrefundable deposit at booking. Included: A party host to ensure that everyone has a great time. Pizza and Soft Drink Pitcher (amount of these depend on the size of party). Party invitations for all the children in the party. Gift for the birthday child. One themed private party room for 2 hours. Ice cream cups for each child. Kangarooz mascot visit. Party accessories (plates, utensils). HD TV in each party room. Games at the stage where your guests can win prizes such as face paints and snow cones.
Kangarooz - Spanish Fort
Spanish Fort Town Center 31000 Bass Pro Dr. (Next to Bass Pro Shop) Spanish Fort, AL 36527 Phone: (251) 219-4290 53
www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine
Blue Girl Beading Co.
2200 East 2nd Street, Gulf Shores Blue Girl Beading Company is a unique beading and jewelry boutique that offers jewelry making birthday parties in shop or at your event. We have a unique team that is devoted to creating a fun event with the latest and most trendy styles. Hours are Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (251) 968-6900
www.bluegirlbeadingco.com
Build-A-Bear Workshop
30500 Hw 181, Spanish Ft (Eastern Shore Centre) Each guest will make his or her own stuffed animal friend. A party leader guides them through each step of the bear building fun and then through party games. Party time ranges from 1-1.5 hours, depending on the number of guests. A minimum of 5 guests is required for each party package. Parties include a party host, photo, printable invitations, thank you notes and party gifts for each guest. For more information and party package details, call or visit our website. (251) 625-4183
www.buildabear.com
Build-A-Bear Workshop
4751 Main Street, Orange Beach (The Wharf) Each guest will make his or her own stuffed animal friend. A party leader guides them through each step of the bear building fun and then through party games. Party time ranges from 1-1.5 hours, depending on the number of guests. A minimum of 6 guests is required for each party package. Parties include a party host,
photo, printable invitations, thank you notes and party gifts for each guest. For more information and party package details, call or visit our website. (251) 224-1686
www.buildabear.com
Christie’s Paint n Shop
27267 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach Christie’s Paint Shop is great for birthday parties, bridal/baby showers, corporate events, church groups and more! We offer private in-studio parties and classes with a 10 person minimum. Please call to check availability and book reservations. Open daily 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (251) 981-7770
www.christiespaintnshop.com
Coastal Arts Center
26389 Canal Road, Orange Beach Call us to book your birthday party or special event in The Clay Studio or The Hot Shop. (251) 981-2787
www.coastalartscenter.com
Eastern Shore Art Center
401 Oak Street, Fairhope Let one of our children’s art instructors plan an “art party” for your child’s special day. Clay and painting classes are also available. Please call for information. Hours are Tuesday – Friday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (251) 928-2228
www.esartcenter.com
Genesis College Spa Parties 7241 Dolphin Street, Daphne
If you are looking to have a Spa Party, Genesis Career College is the place for you! Up-dos, manicures, pedicures, you create the party package you want! (Genesis students perform Spa services). Please call for reservations and pricing.
(251) 445-8900
www.genesiscareer.edu
Paint’n Parrot
9 North Church Street, Fairhope Paint’n Parrot is a paint your own pottery, fused glass art, canvas, and pottery studio. Paint’n Parrot has everything you need to create a hand-painted piece of pottery for any occasion. We even have design tools to help you along. Great for birthday parties, scout groups, office parties, bridal showers and summer outings. We have several pottery packages to choose from. Please call or email us. (251) 928-4161
www.paintnparrot.com
Places to Party-
Dance and Gymnastics Bay City Gymnastics ad on page 2
7980 American Way, Daphne Looking for a fun place for your child to have his/ her birthday party? Let us help you make your child’s birthday a day to remember. We provide the activities and you provide the cake and ice cream. You will be assigned two party hostesses. They
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will help your child and his/her friends run through obstacle courses, play games, relay races, jumping on our 40 foot long Tumble Track Trampoline or even come and climb on our cargo net or zing down our zip line! Our weekends fill up fast, so call today to schedule your child’s party! (251) 621-2112
www.bcgagymnastics.com
Baypointe Dance Academy ad on page 61
112 Courthouse Square, Bay Minette Come dance the day away with Baypointe Dance Academy. We have dance parties for all ages and dance styles from classical ballet to hip hop. (251) 621-3980
www.baypointedance.com
Creative Outlet Dance Center ad on page 11
66 South Section Street, Fairhope Ballerina, Pop Star, Fairy and Princess themed birthday parties are a very popular service of Creative Outlet. We provide the facility, entertainment and activities for the birthday boy or girl and 15 guests. The cost for a one-and-a-half hour party is $100. Please call to make your reservation. (251) 928-9511
www.creativeoutletdance.com
Eastern Shore Dance Academy ad on page 50
9063 Merritt Lane, Daphne Whether you are as pretty as a Princess, looking for some funky Hip Hop or into all that Jazz, we have a party for you! We offer birthday parties for all ages. Our 2-hour parties include dance instruction, a performance for the parents and loads of fun. Bring your own cake, drinks and snacks. We’ll supply the fun. Reservations required. (251) 626-2300
www.easternshoredanceacademy.us
Eastern Shore Gymnastics Academy, Inc. ad on page 21
8566 Athlete Drive, Daphne Private parties include one hour of structured gymnastics and 30 minutes in the party room for cake and gift opening. We supply the tablecloth, plates, cups, napkins, forks, party favors for guests and clean up. You supply the cake, ice cream and drinks. The birthday child receives a t-shirt. (251) 447-0505
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www.easternshoregymnastics.com
Gulf Coast Dance Alliance ad on page 17
30752 Ember Lane, Spanish Fort Whether your birthday child likes ballet, jazz, hiphop or acro/gym, we have a party for you! For more information and to book your next party call or visit our website. (251) 621-9755
www.gcdadance.com
Susan’s Academy of Dance ad on page 75
108 5th Street, Daphne We offer parties with the latest dance moves, princess dance parties, Rock Star and Hip Hop dance. Let us plan a dance party for you! Call for availability. (251) 626-3835
www.susansacademyofdance.com
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cleanup. We provide drinks for the children and adults, all paper products and balloons. You bring the cake, the kids, and the camera! Please call for booking and prices. (251) 928-3387 www.tlgeasternshoreal.com
Dance Arts South
The Little Gym ad on page 43
22530 Highway 98, Fairhope (Publix Shopping Center) Our party slots are Fridays at 1 p.m. & 4 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m. The first hour is in our gym with instructor-led games, activities, free play, and fun on our famous air-track! The last 30 minutes is spent in our party room. Our instructors set up, lead the fun, and
(251) 610-8902 www.danceartssouth.com
251 South Greeno Road, Fairhope Choose from themes like Pop Singer, Hip Hop Dance or a Classic Fairytale Ballet. Let us customize a party to fit your wishes. For more information and booking call or email us.
Next Level Tumbling
26090 Equity Drive, Daphne We offer tumble parties, cheer parties, dance parties and more. Each party will last 2 hours. Available times are limited. Please call to reserve your party. Visit our website under the About Us section and click on Birthday Parties for detailed information. (251) 621-5797
www.nextleveltumbling.com
Places to Party-
Farms, Horseback Riding and Petting Zoos Seward Farms ad on page 73
10836 Tanner Williams Road Bring your child for a one of a kind birthday experience getting lost and having fun at the same time. We offer several birthday party packages to choose from with easy to use reservations from our website. Pick your Saturday and book online. Pay when you arrive for your birthday party. Maze is open September – November, Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (228) 641-3936
www.sewardfarms.com
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
1204 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores Celebrate at the zoo with guests and enjoy a full day at the zoo. We have an animal show and a shaded picnic area for you party. Each guest can also get a souvenir cup of animal feed for the petting zoo for $1.00. We do require a reservation for your event or group. For more information and booking please call or email. Hours are Monday – Sunday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (251) 968-5732
www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org
Brantley Farms Petting Zoo
26214 Pollard Road, Daphne Birthday parties are filled with farm animal fun! Tour
TAKE A WALK on the
(251.946.2483)
19500 Highway 71 ∙ Summerdale, AL Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016
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the barn and meet the donkeys. The birthday child gets to sit on a miniature donkey for a picture then everyone jumps on the huge pile of hay! Participants will get to hold a chicken, bunnies and baby chick. Petting the llama is always fun along with feeding a baby bottle to a calf. After that, it’s off to feed the goats and sheep. No party would be complete without a pony ride! The grand finale hayride lets the children see all the big animals. Call for details or to schedule a tour or party. Visit us on Facebook. Open Saturdays 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
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Rent Fairhope Farm for your child’s party, wedding, reunion or other event. We provide complete set up for your party needs. All you have to do is bring your cake, favors and guests! Birthday parties include hands on petting zoo and farm animals including cows and goats. We offer several games and activities, a playground and air-conditioned bathroom and kitchen. For detailed information please call or email us today. (251) 895-9165
www.fairhopefarm.com
Forty South Farms
27257 Glass Road, Robertsdale Forty South Farms offers birthday party packages for up to 12 children. Additional children can be added to parties for an additional price. Please call for details and to reserve your child’s party. (251) 964-4242
www.fortysouthfarms.com
Giddy Up n’ Go Pony Rides
19870 County Road 13, Fairhope
Giddy-Up N Go pony rides offer one and two-hour pony rides for your special event. The kids will never forget the special day with the ponies. Birthday parties, Family Reunions, Festivals, Church events and more. We can come to you or you can come to us. We also provide private, basic horsemanship and riding lessons. We encourage self-confidence, balance, knowledge along with respect and appreciation of others and the horses, all while having fun.
Oak Hollow Farm
Lake Forest Stables
(251) 928-4840
(251) 210-3938
268 Equine Circle, Daphne Party at Lake Forest Stables! We provide Birthday Parties, Family Gatherings, School/Daycare Fieldtrips and summer camps. Meet our fun, friendly ponies! Parties are scheduled for two hours and include two ponies for riding, a petting area with a miniature goat and pig. There is also access to a large gas grill on the deck with picnic seating for up to 30 people. Call for more information. (251) 747-8219
www.lakeforeststables.org
Magnolia Corn Maze
15275 County Road 49 South, Summerdale What better place to have your child’s next party than at Magnolia Corn Maze! Open October 2016. There are several different party packages to choose from. All parties include a party host, covered party pavilion, Corn Maze, Hay Ride, Petting Zoo, several farm activities and much more. Additional packages include Pony Parties, Campfires or Bazooka Ball. Ask us about activities we offer to bring to your party location too! (251) 605-7216
magnoliacornmaze.com
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14210 Greeno Road, Fairhope For your next party, check out all the fun and relaxing things you can do at Oak Hollow Farm. With over 300 acres of land, you can order as few or as many activities as you like: Horseback Riding, inflatable Slides, Playground, Hay Rides, Space Walks, Fishing, and more! Don’t forget about our over 6,000 square foot rustic barn. It’s a great place to have refreshments, line-dance or even karaoke. Call and reserve your event today! www.oakhollowfarm.net
Pint-size Pony Parties
Pony Parties for Any occasion! Dress up pony parties, ponies for festivals, and ponies for birthday parties or tea parties! Give us a call to schedule your next party with the ponies! Visit us on Facebook! (251) 752-1310
Riverside Ranch
26061 Monsanto Road , Loxley We do it all at Riverside! Riding Lessons, Trail Rides, Boarding, Leasing, Birthday Parties, Saddle Club and more! Call or visit the website for details. (251) 263-3700 or (251) 228-0142 www.riversideranch1.com
Sea Horse Stables
14537 State Highway 59 , Foley Whether you are a new or experienced rider, everyone will enjoy a trip to Seahorse Stables. Our sweet horses are just waiting for you to ride and visit with them. We are open various hours so please call ahead. We offer
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Birthday Party packages, guided trail rides and private lessons. We only accept cash or checks. (251) 971-7433
Weeks Bay Plantation
12562 Mary Ann Beach Road, Fairhope Weeks Bay Plantation offers a unique area for birthday parties or other special events with archery, organic blueberry picking, outdoor movies or catered picnics by the lake. Berry picking season begins in April and runs through July. Like us on Facebook. Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Thursday – Saturday. Please call for event reservations and fees. (251) 279-UPIK (8745)
www.weeksbayplantation.com
Places to Party-
Food and Restaurants Original Oyster House ad on page 1
3733 Battleship Parkway, Mobile The Original Oyster House has many years experience in serving the needs of large groups that wish to have fun in our fantastic facilities. We offer the best service you can find! Also available for rent, the Delta Room accommodates parties of up to 40. For parties fewer than 40 you may choose from any of our regular menu items. For parties of up to 100 we offer family style or seafood buffet menus. (251) 626-2188
www.originaloysterhouse.com
Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016
Original Oyster House ad on page 1
701 Highway 59 , Gulf Shores The Original Oyster House has many years experience in serving the needs of large groups that wish to have fun in our fantastic facilities. We offer the best service you can find! Also available for rent, the Delta Room accommodates parties of up to 40. For parties fewer than 40 you may choose from any of our regular menu items. For parties of up to 100 we offer family style or seafood buffet menus. (251) 948-2445
www.originaloysterhouse.com
6860 US Highway 90, Daphne (Jubilee Shopping Center) Party at Chill Yogurt Café! There is no fee to have your party at chill but we do like you to call and reserve a table. Call us today and ask about our options for yogurt machine rental. www.chillyogurt.com/daphne
Culinary Dreams, Inc.
2101-D U.S. Highway 98, Daphne Let Culinary Dreams, Inc. provide a private cooking party for your next birthday, bridal shower, ladies’ night out, baby shower or just a group of friends/ family wanting to learn something new in the kitchen. Call Dede or Frank for more information and reserve your next cooking party or class! Visit us on Facebook. (251) 621-0026
4851 Wharf Parkway, Suite D 130, Orange Beach Montego’s Caribbean Cafe is a family friendly island themed restaurant! Featuring an indoor pirate ship seating area, an outdoor pirate ship play area and birthday party options. Call to book your party! (251) 634-3445
www.culinarydreamsinc.com
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Rotolo’s Pizzeria
100 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope Contact or visit Rotolo’s Pizzeria today to find out about our birthday parties with arcade and catering options. (251) 990-4005
Chill
(251) 626-6686
Montego’s Carribbean Café
www.facebook.com/rotolosoffairhope
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Places to Party-
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3780 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores You supply the kids, cake and decorations. We supply the entertainment, food, drinks and fun. We will even clean up! For more information visit our party website. Please call for show times and availability. (251) 923-0100
www.cobbtheatres.com/pinnacle14
Eastern Shore Premiere Cinema 14
30500 Highway 181, Spanish Fort Be the star of your own movie party! Our cinema and party room are available for any size group.
www.easternshoreparents.com
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www.pccmovies.com
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6898 US Highway 90, Daphne Call for our party packages! (251) 626-5766
www.carmike.com/ShowTimes/zip/36526
Wharf 15 - Orange Beach
23151 Wharf Lane, Orange Beach Call for special party pricing. We also have a dedicated party room to hold your special events at the Wharf 15! (251) 981-4444
www.carmike.com
Places to Party-
Parks and Recreation Bodenhamer Recreation Center
310 West 19th Avenue, Gulf Shores The Bodenhamer Recreation Center is available for rental for both members and non-members. Bring your own refreshments and drinks (no glass bottles/ no alcoholic beverages). Rental fee includes use of the entire facility with the exception of the weight room and classes. Please call for reservations and rental fees. (251) 968-1420
www.gulfshoresal.gov
City of Daphne Parks and Recreation 2605 US Highway 98, Daphne
The City of Daphne is proud to offer several parks and sports fields for the community to enjoy. The City of Daphne does not rent the park facilities other than the pavilion at Bayfront Park and the sports fields at Al Trione Sports Complex. To hold a birthday party or event at one of the parks, they are based on a first come first served basis. Each park is open to the public; therefore, it cannot be exclusive to your function. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in the parks and facilities at all times. Park hours are dawn until dusk except for Al Trione Sports Complex and W.O. Lott Park.
(251) 621-3703
www.daphneal.com
30500 State Highway 181, Spanish Fort Looking for a special way to celebrate your child’s birthday? You’ll see smiles, giggles, laughter and fun being shared by the children as they frolic and play in the dancing water of the fountain. We provide a reserved covered area, tables and chairs for a 90-minute party. We also do the entire cleanup so you can spend your time enjoying your child’s celebration. Call today for pricing and to reserve your party. www.easternshorecentre.com
Fairhope City Pool
803 North Greeno Road, Fairhope Located at the Fairhope Recreation Center, the Fairhope City Pool is a great place to have your swimming party. Private Parties are available. Non-private party rates are also available. (251) 928-7270
www.cofairhope.com
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105 South Church Street, Fairhope The Community Park features two towering corkscrews slides, a rope-climbing sphere, a musical-instrument lined sidewalk, nautical-themed equipment along with traditional swings, monkey bars and splash pad. The pavilion is located on the south end at of Church Street and Morphy Avenue. Please call the city of Fairhope for more information on party guidelines. (251) 929-1479
www.cofairhope.com
Point Clear Tennis and Swim
Eastern Shore Centre Fountain
(251) 625-0060
Fairhoper’s Community Park
17107 Tennis Club Drive, Fairhope Your guests will love swimming and relaxing in the pool at Point Clear Tennis and Swim Club. Please note that we do not provide lifeguards and parents should accompany their child. Please call us for more detailed party information and reservations. (251) 928-7715
Town Center Park Pavilion
29000 Bass Pro Drive, Spanish Fort The Spanish Fort Town Center Park is 3.5 acres featuring a number of amenities for community use including: a shaded pavilion area with park tables, splash pad with various water features, state-of-the-art playground, restroom facilities, and much more. For more information about reserving tables in the pavilion and rental information, please call or email one of our representatives. (251) 561-8800
www.spanishforttowncenter.com
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ESP
A Page in a Book Pencil in Picture Books In a picture book landscape largely populated with bright colors, bold shapes, and a wilderness of creative fonts there reside marvelously stark standout titles that use the suggestive subtleties of pencil illustrations to carry the weight of a tale. With few or no words, the following masterpieces wield the power of pencil art to drive the story in absence of color and words. Young readers are freed from neon distractions to really delve into the imagery, to let their own dialogue and imaginings inform the story along the way. The following titles are recommended for their distinct voice and brilliant storytelling rendered in shade and silence.
The Whale
by Ethan Murrow and Vita Murros (Templar / Candlewick) When a local paper revisits a 50-year-old news event about two youngsters who claimed to have seen an enormous spotted whale off shore, the hook is set for another couple of kids who want to find proof the behemoth exists. Working independently, a girl equips her small boat with improvised video devices while a boy loads his dinghy with tools to capture audio evidence of the elusive spotted whale. But after their boats collide and wreck during the search, teamwork becomes their only option to salvage their mission and prove the mysterious monster exists. Brilliantly executed pencil illustration reveals a wordless journey that is rich with atmosphere, intrigue and excitement in this whale of a tale!
The Only Child
by Guojing (Schwartz & Wade / Random House) Sneaking out of the house to visit her grandmother, a young child’s wandering evolves from misadventure into a magical tale of wordless wonder. Accidentally stranded in the woods, the little girl encounters a stag who introduces her to paths through forest and sky, ocean and snow. Pencil illustrations soften the edges of the lonely landscapes while sharpening the focus on brighter elements in the story; a child’s beaming face, light pouring from an open front door, a full winter moon. Drawing from her childhood during China’s ‘one child’ policy and her own experience of getting lost, Guojing’s stunning story finds the perfect balance between the beauty of solitude and the comfort of companionship.
The Mysteries of Harris Burdick
by Chris Van Allsburg (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) First published in 1984, this revolutionary picture book continues to attract new readers while remaining a touchstone pleasure for its first generation of fans. A fictional editor’s note introduces the collection of images as material left behind by a writer who never returned with the complete stories. Only a title and tantalizing caption for each drawing hint at what the story might have been. Adding to the mystery, each magnificent penciled illustration features some startling surreal element at its center. These bizarre elements transform every reader into an original storyteller as their minds reach to fill in the blanks spaces, to craft their own stories for the orphaned artwork. Pencil in time to revisit this masterpiece!
Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.
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As my teenage daughter’s birthday was approaching, I asked her if she wanted to have a party with some friends. “I guess,” she answered in her typical non-committal way. While she thought she could have a killer party by just inviting friends, ordering pizza and plugging her phone into a speaker, I knew they would spend much of the party concentrating on their phones instead of each other. Instead, I offered her a few teen party ideas that I hoped would serve as the “warm up band” and get her friends moving, laughing and making memories at the killer party my daughter envisioned. Here are the six ideas that we came up with!
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Night at the Club – Turn your basement into a Night Club or Sports Bar (minus the alcohol, of course). Teens love to Karaoke via your Wii, Playstation or Xbox and dance games like Just Dance gets the party going fast. Consider asking your guests to wear neon or white and set the room in black light. Games like Darts, Pool, Foosball or Air Hockey are usually found in the basement of a family with teens. You can also bring in Cornhole boards and bean bags for a friendly, competitive game. Instead of pizza, try serving nachos, cheese sticks and chicken wings. An 80’s Party – My kids know all
the 80’s songs from Bon Jovi to ZZ Top because they grew up listening to them. At an 80’s themed party guests can dress up as their parents did back in the day. Offer a variety of 80’s games for the kids to play including Simon, Uno, Rubik’s Cube and Atari Flashback (available on Amazon). Keep the party going with “Who Wants to be an 80’s Star” which is a spinoff of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire”. Create 80’s trivia questions with a life line to parents or poll the audience. Serve popular 80’s foods like pizza rolls, jello pudding pops, sloppy joes, and of course, Tab.
Murder Mystery – Not only is
a Murder Mystery Party a theme within a theme, it is also a fun way to release your inter-actor. Some themes include the Wild West, a night at the theatre, glamorous millionaires, medieval times, prom or even the holidays. You can find downloadable games online which will include character descriptions, a storyline and directions. Inform your guests ahead of time so they can dress for their role or offer costumes when they arrive. Your meal should revolve around your murder mystery setting.
Amazing Race – An Amazing Race party requires the guests to break up into teams, read and decipher clues and perform challenges in the shortest amount of time. The game can easily be set up in your neighborhood. Set challenges at the park, a neighbor’s backyard or a local business. Game printables can be found on Etsy. Incorporate food in your challenges so everyone is fed, but offer appetizers and desserts before and after the race. Challenge food games may include making a Froot Loop necklace with a certain pattern of colors and then eating it before moving on to the next challenge.
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Minute to Win – This is a fun
party for all ages and a simple set up for the party-planning challenged. The guests are given one minute to do a variety of simple challenges, like picking up four dry penne pastas with a dry spaghetti noodle. Players can be individual or broken into teams of 2 or more. Have everyone do the same challenges and keep record of everyone’s times. For game ideas, check out the Minute to Win it website and head to the dollar store for supplies. Food ideas include quick and easy make-it-yourself bars like tacos, pasta or baked potatoes.
Social Media Party – Ok, if you can’t beat them, join them. This is as close to it comes to just hanging out. Set up a photo booth with props for fun party posts. Play “Find a Post” where players receive points for having posted a particular item on social media – a team logo, their pet, a picture of a Starbucks cup. Serve food that only requires one hand to eat so the teens can continue to eat and Tweet. Try foods you can stick with a toothpick like cheese cubes, cocktail meatballs or cut up fruits and veggies. ESP Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three teenagers. She is the author of a party game series on Amazon and creator of Pam’s Party Printables on Etsy.
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Family Calendar Friday, July 1
Daphne Farmer’s Market 2:00pm - 6:00pm, Daphne United Methodist Church, 2401 Scenic 98, Daphne Garden Brothers Circus 4:30pm Baldwin County Fairgrounds, 19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale The circus has everything you’d expect to see at a Circus. Garden Brothers Circus celebrates 100 years entertaining families throughout North America and “we’ve pulled out all the stops!” Last chance to see Elephants live! ‘Motorcycle Madness’ has motorcycle daredevils somersaulting and spinning in a big Globe of Doom; Chinese Acrobats, the Human Slingshot, Racing Camels, crazy comedy with Circus Clowns, daring aerialists; cirque artists. Two shows: 4:30pm and 7:30pm. www.gardenbroscircus.com First Friday Art Walk (Free) 6:00pm - 8:00pm, Eastern Shore Art Center, 401 Oak Street, Fairhope On the first Friday of every month the Art Center welcomes 400 plus visitors, free of charge, for the exhibit openings. Visitors are treated to refreshments made possible by generous local business sponsors. www.esartcenter.com First Friday Family Night (Free) 6:00pm - 8:00pm, Blackburn Park, 1st and Hoyle in downtown Bay Minette, Bay Minette We will have food trucks, arts and crafts, kid’s activities and free outdoor movie at 8:00pm. (251) 937-5665
Celebrate America (Free) 7:00pm The Wharf, 4550 Main Street, Orange Beach Join us for a musical event by the choir and orchestra of First Baptist Gulf Shores. www.alwharf.com SummerTide presents “The Marvelous Wonderettes” 8:00pm George C. Meyer Performing Arts Center , 2022 West 2nd Street, Gulf Shores The University of Alabama’s professional summer theatre, SummerTide, will bring a “heatwave” to Gulf Shores during its 13th season. The cast of SummerTide will present The
July2016
Marvelous Wonderettes, the Off-Broadway hit musical by Roger Bean. www.summertide.org
Saturday, July 2
Smoke on the Coast 5:00pm - 9:00pm, Spanish Fort Town Center Park , I-10 And Old Spanish Trail, Spanish Fort Mark your calendars for “Smoke on the Coast” July 2nd, 2016 at the Spanish Fort Town Center Park! You will not want to miss Willie Sugarcapps, local BBQ & Food Trucks, arts & crafts, Extreme Kid Zone, and the largest fireworks festival in the area! A portion of proceeds for this year’s Smoke on the Coast event will benefit the local chapter of Team River Runner. Fireworks at the Wharf 5:00pm The Wharf, 4550 Main Street, Orange Beach Activities begin at 5:00pm, Fireworks take place over Main Street at 8:45pm, SPECTRA Sound & Light Spectacular will follow the fireworks. Kids Activities to include: bouncy houses, rock climbing wall, face painting ($5-$10), monkey & llamas to feed and pet, surfboard simulator, games & prizes and more! www.alwharf.com Spanish Fort Farmers Market 8:00am - 12:00pm, Spanish Fort Community Center, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort The Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with the City of Spanish Fort to bring local residents a Farmers Market each Saturday between May 7 and July 30 at the Spanish Fort Community Center. Kids’ Bike Parade 9:00am Fairhopers Community Park, 105 South Church Street, Fairhope The Exceptional Foundation will have a kids’ bike parade at 9:00am in downtown Fairhope. Registration is at the Fairhopers Community Park from 8:00am-9:00am. www.fairhopemerchants.com 5 Rivers Meet and Greet (Free) 2:00pm - 2:30pm, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Alabama has one of the highest plant and animal diversities in the United States. Join a member of our human educational staff and meet one of the local critter inhabitants
Daphne Pediatric Dentistry 7058 Professional Place, Daphne www.DaphnePediatricDentistry.com
Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016
from the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and beyond.
(251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com
Grand Bay Watermelon Festival 3:00pm - 7:00pm, Grand Bay Odd Fellows Festival Park, 10327 Taylor F. Harper Boulevard, Grand Bay Join us for the Grand Bay Watermelon Festival July 3 and July 4. We will have rides, arts and crafts, food, entertainment and all the free, sliced, ice cold watermelon you can eat. So come spend both days with us at our hometown Grand Bay Watermelon Festival. You’ll be glad you did! (251) 865-3456 grandbaywatermelonfestival.org
Sunday, July 3
5 Rivers Matinee (Free) 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Come out and join us every Sunday for a free family, friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week’s movie is “American Eagle”. (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com
Monday, July 4
Daphne’s Jubilee Independence Day 5:00pm - 8:00pm, Trione Sports Park, Daphne Plan now to join us for family fun at Trione Sports Complex with waterslides, inflatables, games and free concessions! Fireworks begin at dusk. (251) 621-3703
Gulf Shores Fireworks 6:00pm Gulf Shores Public Beach, 101 East Beach Boulevard, Gulf Shores The City of Gulf Shores will celebrate the Fourth of July with a stunning fireworks display, beginning at 8:45pm on July 4. In addition to the annual fireworks show, carnival-like activities will kick off at 6:00pm at the Gulf Shores Public Beach. (251) 968-1172
Fairhope’s Fourth of July Festival and Fireworks 7:30pm Henry George Park, Fairhope The City of Fairhope and the Baldwin Pops Band invite one and all to the annual Fourth of July Concert and Fireworks display on Monday, July 4, at Henry George Park and the Fairhope Municipal Pier Park. The Baldwin Pops Band Independence Day Concert begins at 7:30pm in Henry George Park on top of the bluff and the fireworks begin at dusk. (251) 929-1466
Celebrating Smiles for 15 Years!
Dr. Todd Chambliss
Accepting BlueCross BlueShield, AL All Kids, Southland and Cigna Insurances. We le all other insurances also.
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Family Calendar City of Mobile Fireworks Display – Battleship Memorial Park Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile The City of Mobile will once again host the city’s July 4th celebration and fireworks display at Battleship Memorial Park. Live, patriotic entertainment provided by the Mobile Pops Band until the fireworks illuminate the sky! Gates open at 6:00pm and the fireworks begin at 9:00pm.
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Dauphin Island Fireworks Dauphin Island Public Beach, Next to Dauphin Island Elementary School, Dauphin Island Fireworks show on the Public Beach next to DI Elementary School.
Grand Bay Watermelon Festival 8:00am - 4:00pm, Grand Bay Odd Fellows Festival Park, 10327 Taylor F. Harper Boulevard, Grand Bay Join us for the Grand Bay Watermelon Festival July 3 and July 4. We will have rides, arts and crafts, food, entertainment and all the free, sliced, ice cold watermelon you can eat. So come spend both days with us at our hometown Grand Bay Watermelon Festival. You’ll be glad you did! (251) 865-3456 grandbaywatermelonfestival.org Salute to American Indepence 8:00am - 3:00pm, Fort Morgan, 110 Highway 180 West , Gulf Shores Historical interpreters dressed in U.S. Army uniforms from different eras of the fort’s occupation will conduct special guided tours throughout the day. Additionally, artillery, small arms, and other presentations will demonstrate the complexities of military garrison life at Fort Morgan. www.fort-morgan.org
Tuesday, July 5
Orange Beach Every Wednesday, The Wharf will host Kid’s Night in Palm Plaza with bounce houses, face painting, live animals and more for young children. www.alwharf.com
Thursday, July 7
Fairhope - Summer Outdoor Farmer’s Market 3:00pm - 6:00pm, Fairhope Public Library, Bancroft Street, Fairhope The market will feature local farmers, bakers, fresh Baldwin County produce, fresh cut flowers, local honey, plants, baked goods and more. The Fairhope Public Library will hold story times and children’s activities at 4:00pm each Thursday at the market. (251) 929-1466
5 Rivers Storytime (Free) 10:00am - 11:00am, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com
Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights on Thursday and Fridays presented by the Town of Dauphin Island and Greer’s Market. Bring chairs, blankets, bug spray just in case. Snack Vendor and restrooms available on site. July 7 movie is Free Willy. townofdauphinisland.org
5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night (Free) 6:00pm - 8:30pm, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com
Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series (Free) 8:00pm Fairhopers Community Park , Church Street in downtown Fairhope, Fairhope The City of Fairhope returns with the 2nd annual “Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series,” with three free family movies at Fairhopers Community Park on the first Thursdays in June, July, and August. Moviegoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and a picnic (no alcohol or glass containers) and relax with the whole family. Movie is Minions.
Wednesday, July 6 Kids Night - The Wharf (Free) 5:30pm - 9:30pm, The Wharf, 4550 Main Street,
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Family Calendar Friday, July 8
Fairies and Frogs Consignment Sale 10:00am - 7:00pm, Grace Fellowship Church , 1412 East Nashville Avenue, Atmore Join us for Fairies and Frogs Consignment Sale on July 8 and July 9 at Grace Fellowship Church. (251) 232-0160
Daphne Farmer’s Market 2:00pm - 6:00pm, Daphne United Methodist Church, 2401 Scenic 98, Daphne Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights on Thursday and Fridays presented by the Town of Dauphin Island and Greer’s Market. Bring chairs, blankets, bug spray just in case. Snack Vendor and restrooms available on site. July 8 movie is Dennis the Menace. townofdauphinisland.org
Saturday, July 9
Camping 101 ($5 ) 10:00am - 12:00pm, Gulf State Park Nature Center, 20115 AL-135, Gulf Shores Attend Camping 101 and you will receive a card that entitles you to borrow all the camping equipment you need for a great camping trip for FREE with paid campground registration anytime. Camping 101 will include instructions on everything related to camping at Gulf State Park such as how to find the perfect spot for the tent and how to put it up, how to build a campfire, how to use and cook on a campstove, what to do and see while you are camping and much more. (251) 948-7275 www.alapark.com
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Fairies and Frogs Consignment Sale 8:00am - 5:00pm, Grace Fellowship Church , 1412 East Nashville Avenue, Atmore Join us for Fairies and Frogs Consignment Sale on July 8 and July 9 at Grace Fellowship Church. (251) 232-0160
Spanish Fort Farmers Market 8:00am - 12:00pm, Spanish Fort Community Center, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort The Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with the City of Spanish Fort to bring local residents a Farmers Market each Saturday between May 7 and July 30 at the Spanish Fort Community Center. Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament 531 Lemoyne Drive, Dauphin Island The Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament is designed to bring families together and encourage sportsmanship. The tournament takes place on the Saturday before the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. RMYAT is for children 15 years and younger and it typically attracts more than 1500 young anglers and all proceeds benefit the Mobile Jaycees Children’s Christmas Shopping Tour. (251) 471-0025 www.adsfr.com
Sunday, July 10
5 Rivers Matinee (Free) 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Come out and join us every Sunday for a free family, friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week’s movie is “Venom: Nature’s Killer”. (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com
Monday, July 11
Mommy & Me Workshop: Fairy Flower Pot! 1-3pm. We supply the clay pot and the decorations, you bring the creativity and the fun! Join local artist Deborah Benton as she teaches you how to make an ordinary flower pot into an extraordinary Fairy Cottage! All children ages 4-5 and their parents/ guardians are encouraged to attend! $35 per student. Register online or call our Academy Director, Hannah. (251) 928-2228 ext 107 www.esartcenter.com
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Fairhope Museum of History presents “Tea for Two” 2:00pm Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street, Fairhope Each Tuesday afternoon, the Museum hosts a ‘tea’ where guests enjoy a cup of delicious Baldwin County tea, cookies and a lecture on an interesting aspect of Fairhope history. These very popular afternoon events are sponsored by the Friends of the Museum group. The Fairhope Museum of History invites everyone to attend for colorful, interesting and entertaining afternoons at the museum. (251) 929-1471 www.cofairhope.com
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Wednesday, July 13 Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home (Free for members $13.00 for non-members Reservations Requested)
10:30am - 11:30am, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore Join us this June and July for Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home, a fun, informative series to help Gulf Coast gardeners and enthusiasts make the most of our extended growing season. Each workshop covers a special feature of the Gardens or Home and includes tips for making your garden more spectacular. July 13 Topic - BeeKeeping on the Gulf Coast. www.bellingrath.org
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Kids Night - The Wharf (Free) 5:30pm - 9:30pm, The Wharf, 4550 Main Street, Orange Beach Every Wednesday, The Wharf will host Kid’s Night in Palm Plaza with bounce houses, face painting, live animals and more for young children. www.alwharf.com
Thursday, July 14
Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights on Thursday and Fridays presented by the Town of Dauphin Island and Greer’s Market. Bring chairs, blankets, bug spray just in case. Snack Vendor and restrooms available on site. July 14 is The Blind Side. townofdauphinisland.org
Friday, July 15
Daphne Farmer’s Market 2:00pm - 6:00pm, Daphne United Methodist Church, 2401 Scenic 98, Daphne Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights on Thursday and Fridays presented by the Town of Dauphin Island and Greer’s Market. Bring chairs, blankets, bug spray just in case. Snack Vendor and restrooms available on site. July 15 movie is Fried Green Tomatoes. townofdauphinisland.org Theatre 98 presents Absurd Person Singular 8:00pm Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope Theatre 98 presents “Absurd Person Singular”. Three couples entertain each other at three successive Christmas eve parties where hilarious kitchen disasters and reversals of fortune ensue. A wild, wacky comedy from an Olivier and Tony Award winning playwright. (251) 928-4366 www.theatre98.org Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo 531 Lemoyne Drive, Dauphin Island The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, a Project of the Mobile Jaycees, is the largest fishing tournament in the world. The 83rd Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 1517. The 3-day event features 30 categories with prizes
awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in all categories. www.adsfr.com
Saturday, July 16
6th Annual Dauphin Street Vault 10:00am - 10:00pm, Dauphin Street-Downtown, Mobile Join us for the 6th Annual Dauphin Street Vault. The primary mission of Dauphin Street Vault is to promote health and wellness through athletics. Our secondary mission is to celebrate the awesomeness of pole vaulting and track and field by throwing an amazing block party in its honor. Whether you’re an athlete or not, we hope to see you there! www.dauphinstreetvault.com Market Days at the Chamber 10:00am - 2:00pm, North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, 301 McMeans Avenue, Bay Minette Home made, hand made, home grown, yard sale, produce, jams, jellies, fresh breads, artwork, painted furniture,
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home made soaps, flowers, lunch plates, children’s activities and more.....you never know what kind of treasure you’ll find. www.northbaldwinchamber.com
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Family Calendar
July2016
Fairhope Historic Sites Bus Tours ($20 ) Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street, Fairhope The Fairhope Museum of History will once again be offering Bus Tours at 9:00am, 11:00am, 1:00pm & 3:00pm. Hosted by Museum Director Donnie Barrett, the tours will cover the western side of town to include the homes of the town founders and other early Colonial Period sites. These tours provide a lot of interesting information and history. Advance tickets will go on sale at the museum on Friday July 1st. (251) 929-1471 www.fairhopemerchants.com Spanish Fort Farmers Market 8:00am - 12:00pm, Spanish Fort Community Center, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort The Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with the City of Spanish Fort to bring local residents a Farmers Market each Saturday between May 7 and July 30 at the Spanish Fort Community Center. Theatre 98 presents Absurd Person Singular 8:00pm Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope Theatre 98 presents “Absurd Person Singular”. Three couples entertain each other at three successive Christmas eve parties where hilarious kitchen disasters and reversals of fortune ensue. A wild, wacky comedy from an Olivier and Tony Award winning playwright. (251) 928-4366 www.theatre98.org Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo 531 Lemoyne Drive, Dauphin Island The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, a Project of the Mobile Jaycees, is the largest fishing tournament in the world. The 3-day event features 30 categories with prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in all categories. www.adsfr.com
Sunday, July 17
5 Rivers Meet and Greet (Free) 2:00pm - 2:30pm, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Alabama has one of the highest plant and animal diversities in the United States. Join a member of our human educational staff and meet one of the local critter inhabitants from the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and beyond. (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com Theatre 98 presents Absurd Person Singular 2:30pm Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope Theatre 98 presents “Absurd Person Singular”. Three couples entertain each other at three successive Christmas eve parties where hilarious kitchen disasters and reversals of fortune ensue. A wild, wacky comedy from an Olivier and Tony Award winning playwright. (251) 928-4366 www.theatre98.org Dierks Bentley in Concert 7:00pm The Wharf Amphitheatre, 23101 Canal Road, Orange Beachwww.alwharf.com
Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo 531 Lemoyne Drive, Dauphin Island The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, a Project of the Mobile Jaycees, is the largest fishing tournament in the world. The 83rd Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 1517. The 3-day event features 30 categories with prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in all categories. www.adsfr.com
Tuesday, July 19
5 Rivers Storytime (Free) 10:00am - 11:00am, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com Fairhope Museum of History presents “Tea for Two” 2:00pm Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street, Fairhope Each Tuesday afternoon, the Museum hosts a ‘tea’ where guests enjoy a cup of delicious Baldwin County tea, cookies and a lecture on an interesting aspect of Fairhope history. These very popular afternoon events are sponsored by the Friends of the Museum group. The Fairhope Museum of History invites everyone to attend for colorful, interesting and entertaining afternoons at the museum. (251) 929-1471 www.cofairhope.com
Wednesday, July 20
Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home (Free for members $13.00 for non-members
Reservations Requested)
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10:30am - 11:30am, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore Join us this June and July for Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home, a fun, informative series to help Gulf Coast gardeners and enthusiasts make the most of our extended growing season. Each workshop covers a special feature of the Gardens or Home and includes tips for making your garden more spectacular. July 20 Topic is Beautiful Objects with a Colorful Past. www.bellingrath.org Mobile Baykeeper’s Young Advisory Council Bay Bites IV 5:00pm - 8:00pm, Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile Mobile Baykeeper’s Young Advisory Council will be hosting Bay Bites IV at Cooper Riverside Park. Come enjoy a variety of different cuisine from several local food trucks, craft beer, live music, and lawn games on the beautiful waterfront of the Mobile River! We are excited to announce that we will be auctioning off a brand new kayak this year at Bay Bites. Raffle tickets will be $15 for members and $20 for non-members. For non-members, the purchase of a raffle ticket also includes a membership. www.mobilebaykeeper.org/bay-bites Kids Night - The Wharf (Free) 5:30pm - 9:30pm, The Wharf, 4550 Main Street, Orange Beach Every Wednesday, The Wharf will host Kid’s Night in Palm Plaza with bounce houses, face painting, live animals and more for young children. www.alwharf.com
Thursday, July 21 2016 Flavors of the South ($25 Table of 8 is $200) 5:30pm - 8:00pm, Baldwin County Coliseum, 19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale Join us at our 2016 Flavors of the South held to showcase food and wine from local restaurants and caterers. Come sample a variety of food and drink while listening to music and participating in our 50/50 drawing and silent auction. (251) 947-2626 www.centralbaldwin.com Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights on Thursday and Fridays presented by the Town of Dauphin Island and Greer’s Market. Bring chairs, blankets, bug spray just in case. Snack Vendor and restrooms available on site. July 21 movie is Forrest Gump. townofdauphinisland.org
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Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights on Thursday and Fridays presented by the Town of Dauphin Island and Greer’s Market. Bring chairs, blankets, bug spray just in case. Snack Vendor and restrooms available on site. July 22 movie is Dirty Dancing. townofdauphinisland.org Theatre 98 presents Absurd Person Singular 8:00pm Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope Theatre 98 presents “Absurd Person Singular”. Three couples entertain each other at three successive Christmas eve parties where hilarious kitchen disasters and reversals of fortune ensue. A wild, wacky comedy from an Olivier and Tony Award winning playwright. (251) 928-4366 www.theatre98.org
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August 26 & 27 | Orange Beach Marina hosted by Mobile Big Game Fishing Club Join us for the 2nd annual inshore/offshore fishing tournament to benefit the Pediatric Cancer Clinic at Children’s of Alabama! 4 Man Teams Inshore - $250 per Boat Offshore - $500 per Boat Land Lubber - $25 per Person (Fishing off Gulf State Park) Jackpot Category - Additional $25
August 19 - Captain’s Meeting & Pre-Party August 20 - Tournament Under the bridge by 6 p.m. | Weigh-in from 4 - 8 p.m. Registration forms available or register online!
To register or for more information: www.give.childrensal.org/reelhope or 251.610.4969
Friday, July 22
Daphne Farmer’s Market 2:00pm - 6:00pm, Daphne United Methodist Church, 2401 Scenic 98, Daphne
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Saturday, July 23
Mardi Gras in July at Fairhope Brewing Company 2:00pm Fairhope Brewing Company, 914 Nichols Avenue, Fairhope Mardi Gras in July at Fairhope Brewing Company. Our annual celebration of our favorite time of year at a different time of year. Music, beer, and fanfare. www.eschamber.com
Spanish Fort Farmers Market 8:00am - 12:00pm, Spanish Fort Community Center, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort The Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with the City of Spanish Fort to bring local residents a Farmers Market each Saturday between May 7 and July 30 at the Spanish Fort Community Center.
Pelican Paddle Canoe and Kayak Race 7:30am - 12:00pm, Tonsmeire Weeks Bay Resource Center, US Hwy 98, Fairhope The fourth annual Pelican Paddle Canoe and Kayak Race will be held at the Tonsmeire Weeks Bay Resource Center. It is sure to be a great day on the water. Participants receive lunch, water/soft drinks, and a ticket to enter our drawing for the chance to win a kayak and other door prizes. weeksbay.org
Theatre 98 presents Absurd Person Singular 8:00pm Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope Theatre 98 presents “Absurd Person Singular”. Three couples entertain each other at three successive Christmas eve parties where hilarious kitchen disasters and reversals of fortune ensue. A wild, wacky comedy from an Olivier and Tony Award winning playwright. (251) 928-4366 www.theatre98.org
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Family Calendar Sunday, July 24
Theatre 98 presents Absurd Person Singular 2:30pm Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope Theatre 98 presents “Absurd Person Singular”. Three couples entertain each other at three successive Christmas eve parties where hilarious kitchen disasters and reversals of fortune ensue. A wild, wacky comedy from an Olivier and Tony Award winning playwright. (251) 928-4366 www.theatre98.org 5 Rivers Matinee (Free) 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Come out and join us every Sunday for a free family, friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week’s movie is “America’s Amazon”. (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com
Tuesday, July 26
Fairhope Museum of History presents “Tea for Two” 2:00pm Fairhope Museum of History, 24 North Section Street, Fairhope Each Tuesday afternoon, the Museum hosts a ‘tea’ where guests enjoy a cup of delicious Baldwin County tea, cookies and a lecture on an interesting aspect of Fairhope history. These very popular afternoon events are sponsored by the Friends of the Museum group. The Fairhope Museum of History invites everyone to attend for colorful, interesting and entertaining afternoons at the museum. (251) 929-1471 www.cofairhope.com Cheers to Children ($35.00 ) 6:00pm - 8:00pm, Café 615, 615 Dauphin Street, Mobile Café 615 will host a benefit for the Child Advocacy Center. The event will feature samplings of Café 615
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signature dishes and wines to taste, along with a select live and silent auction. Music will be provided by Harrison McGinnis. Ticket cost is $35 each and are available at Café 615 and the CAC for $35 each. Call 432-1101 for details.
(251) 432-1101
painting, live animals and more for young children. www.alwharf.com Michael Franti & Spearhead 7:30pm Saenger Theatre, 6 Joachim Street, Mobile Michael Franti &Spearhead’s concert at the Saenger. www.ticketmaster.com
Thursday, July 28
Wednesday, July 27
Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home (Free for members $13.00 for non-members Reservations Requested)
10:30am - 11:30am, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore Join us this June and July for Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home, a fun, informative series to help Gulf Coast gardeners and enthusiasts make the most of our extended growing season. Each workshop covers a special feature of the Gardens or Home and includes tips for making your garden more spectacular. July 13 Topic - BeeKeeping on the Gulf Coast. July 27 Topic is Native Azaleas. www.bellingrath.org Kids Night - The Wharf (Free) 5:30pm - 9:30pm, The Wharf, 4550 Main Street, Orange Beach Every Wednesday, The Wharf will host Kid’s Night in Palm Plaza with bounce houses, face
Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights on Thursday and Fridays presented by the Town of Dauphin Island and Greer’s Market. Bring chairs, blankets, bug spray just in case. Snack Vendor and restrooms available on site. July 28 movie is Madea Goes to Jail. townofdauphinisland.org
Friday, July 29
Daphne Farmer’s Market 2:00pm - 6:00pm, Daphne United Methodist Church, 2401 Scenic 98, Daphne Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights on Thursday and Fridays presented by the Town of Dauphin Island and Greer’s Market. Bring chairs, blankets, bug spray just in case. Snack Vendor and restrooms available on site. July 29 movie is Creed. townofdauphinisland.org Theatre 98 presents Absurd Person Singular 8:00pm Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope Theatre 98 presents “Absurd Person Singular”. Three couples entertain each other at three successive Christ-
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mas eve parties where hilarious kitchen disasters and reversals of fortune ensue. A wild, wacky comedy from an Olivier and Tony Award winning playwright. (251) 928-4366 www.theatre98.org
Saturday, July 30
Spanish Fort Farmers Market 8:00am - 12:00pm, Spanish Fort Community Center, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort The Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with the City of Spanish Fort to bring local residents a Farmers Market each Saturday between May 7 and July 30 at the Spanish Fort Community Center. Theatre 98 presents Absurd Person Singular 8:00pm Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope Theatre 98 presents “Absurd Person Singular”. Three couples entertain each other at three successive Christmas eve parties where hilarious kitchen disasters and reversals of fortune ensue. A wild, wacky comedy from an Olivier and Tony Award winning playwright. (251) 928-4366 www.theatre98.org
Sunday, July 31
Theatre 98 presents Absurd Person Singular 2:30pm Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope Theatre 98 presents “Absurd Person Singular”. Three couples entertain each other at three successive Christmas eve parties where hilarious kitchen disasters and reversals of fortune ensue. A wild, wacky comedy from an Olivier and Tony Award winning playwright. (251) 928-4366 www.theatre98.org Dauphin Island Sunset Concert ($5 per person Children 12 and under are free.)
6:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Sunset Concerts presents Cat Rhodes and the Truth at 6:00pm. Bring chairs, blankets, drinks, snacks and bug spray. Proceeds go to the Little Red Schoolhouse Relocation Fund. townofdauphinisland.org 5 Rivers Matinee (Free) 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort Come out and join us every Sunday for a free family, friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week’s movie is “Earth Flight”. (251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com
August 3
Kids Night - The Wharf (Free) 5:30pm - 9:30pm, The Wharf, 4550 Main Street, Orange Beach Every Wednesday, The Wharf will host Kid’s Night in Palm Plaza with bounce houses, face painting, live animals and more for young children. www.alwharf.com Shinedown in Concert 6:30pm The Wharf Amphitheatre, 23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach The Carnival of Madness Tour featuring Shinedown, Halestorm, Black Stone Cherry & Whiskey Myers is coming to The Wharf. www.alwharf.com
August 4
19th Annual Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation Professional Rodeo ($12 Adults $6 Children 3 and under Free) 7:00pm City of Foley Horse Arena, 311 East Rosetta Avenue, Foley The 19th Annual Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation Professional Rodeo to be held August 4th, 5th and 6th. This “rodeo with a reason” proudly benefits the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation, supporting Peer Helper Programs reaching the lives of over 30,000 youth in Baldwin County. Arrive at 7:00pm for children’s activities that include free horseback rides and a Kids’ Zone with face painting, games, bouncy house, and a 33’ long
inflatable obstacle course. The professional rodeo begins at 8:00pm with calf roping, barrel racing and the beloved bucking bull riding. (251) 971-3633 JenniferMooreFoundation.com Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series 8:00pm Fairhopers Community Park , Church Street in downtown Fairhope, Fairhope The City of Fairhope returns with the 2nd annual “Glow in the Park Summer Movie Series,” with three free family movies at Fairhopers
Community Park on the first Thursdays in June, July, and August. Moviegoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and a picnic (no alcohol or glass containers) and relax with the whole family. Movie is Inside Out.
(251) 929-1466
August 5
First Friday Art Walk (Free) 6:00pm - 8:00pm, Eastern Shore Art Center, 401 Oak Street, Fairhope On the first Friday of every month the Art Center welcomes 400 plus visitors, free of charge, for the exhibit openings. Visitors are treated to refreshments. www.esartcenter.com First Friday Family Night (Free) 6:00pm - 8:00pm, Blackburn Park, 1st and Hoyle in downtown Bay Minette, Bay Minette We will have food trucks, arts and crafts, kid’s activities and free outdoor movie at 8:00pm. (251) 937-5665
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Family Calendar 19th Annual Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation Professional Rodeo ($12 Adults, $6 Children 3 and under Free) 7:00pm City of Foley Horse Arena, 311 East Rosetta Avenue, Foley The 19th Annual Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation Professional Rodeo to be held August 4th, 5th and 6th. This “rodeo with a reason” proudly benefits the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation, supporting Peer Helper Programs reaching the lives of over 30,000 youth in Baldwin County. Arrive at 7:00pm for children’s activities that include free horseback rides and a Kids’ Zone with face painting, games, bouncy house, and a 33’ long inflatable obstacle course. The professional rodeo begins at 8:00pm with calf roping, barrel racing and the beloved bucking bull riding. (251) 971-3633 JenniferMooreFoundation.com Twenty One Pilots in Concert 7:00pm The Wharf, 23325 Amphitheater Drive, Orange Beachamphitheateratthewharf.com South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jr.” (Adults $10 Students $5)
7:30pm South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street , Gulf Shores Step into the enchanted world of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr, featuring songs from the Academy Award-winning animated feature. Show dates: August 5-7 and August 12-14. (251) 968-6271 www.sbct.biz
August 6
3rd Annual Kayak Classic 6:00am Bayou La Batre Chamber of Commerce, 12745 Padgett Switch Road, Irvington The Bayou La Batre Area Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with the South Mobile County Tourism Authority, proudly
July2016
presents the third annual Bayou La Batre Kayak Classic. This fishing tournament will be held along the coastline of Bayou La Batre and the Gulf of Mexico (251) 402-5081 bayoulabatrekayakclassic.org 19th Annual Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation Professional Rodeo ($12 Adults $6 Children 3 and under Free) 7:00pm City of Foley Horse Arena, 311 East Rosetta Avenue, Foley The 19th Annual Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation Professional Rodeo to be held August 4th, 5th and 6th. This “rodeo with a reason” proudly benefits the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation, supporting Peer Helper Programs reaching the lives of over 30,000 youth in Baldwin County. Arrive at 7:00pm for children’s activities that include free horseback rides and a Kids’ Zone with face painting, games, bouncy house, and a 33’ long inflatable obstacle course. The professional rodeo begins at 8:00pm with calf roping, barrel racing and the beloved bucking bull riding. (251) 971-3633 JenniferMooreFoundation.com South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jr.” (Adults $10 Students $5)
7:30pm South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street , Gulf Shores Step into the enchanted world of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr, featuring songs from the Academy Award-winning animated feature. Show dates: August 5-7 and August 12-14. (251) 968-6271 www.sbct.biz Founder’s Day at Bellingrath (Free) 8:00am - 5:00pm, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore Bellingrath Gardens and Home celebrates Mr. Bellingrath’s birthday on August 6 by offering free admission to residents of Mobile and Baldwin Counties. This year, our Founder’s
Day celebration will include cruises on the Fowl River with Delta Safaris for a fee for non-Bellingrath members. (251) 973-2217 www.bellingrath.org
August 7
South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jr.” (Adults $10 Students $5)
2:00pm South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street , Gulf Shores Step into the enchanted world of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr, featuring songs from the Academy Award-winning animated feature. Show dates: August 5-7 and August 12-14. (251) 968-6271 www.sbct.biz
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Back to School Kid’s Night (Free) 5:30pm - 9:30pm, The Wharf, 4550 Main Street, Orange Beach Back to School Kid’s Night will feature a Foam Party! www.alwharf.com
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Kids Night - The Wharf (Free) 5:30pm - 9:30pm, The Wharf, 4550 Main Street, Orange Beach Every Wednesday, The Wharf will host Kid’s Night in Palm Plaza with bounce houses, face painting, live animals and more for young children. www.alwharf.com
August 12
Taste of Eastern Shore 7:00pm Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US Highway 98, Daphne Taste of Eastern Shore will be held at the Daphne Civic Center to benefit Daphne High School Organizations. DaphneCivicCenter.org
We have one goal – keeping you and your family healthy for every season of the year. • Well baby care (2 weeks & up) • Pediatrics • Adolescent check-ups • Immunizations • Sports physicals Dr. Dukes is board certified with 20 years of experience in family medicine.
Andrew Dukes, M.D. 300 N. Greeno Road, Fairhope, AL 36532
251-929-3424
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South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jr.” (Adults $10 Students $5)
7:30pm South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street , Gulf Shores Step into the enchanted world of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr, featuring songs from the Academy Award-winning animated feature. Show dates: August 5-7 and August 12-14. (251) 968-6271 www.sbct.biz
Ongoing
American Sport Art Museum and Archives Located on the campus of the United States Sports Academy in Daphne, dedicated to the preservation of sports history, art, and literature. Exhibits spotlight visiting artists on a rotating basis, as well as our permanent collection of prints, sculpture, original paintings, photographs and other arts media. Free admission. Hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 1 Academy Drive, Daphne. For more information call 251.626.3303 or visit www.asama.org.
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Big Brother / Big Sister Mentors Needed At-risk children at Summerdale School need volunteer Big Brother Big Sister mentors. “Bigs” have fun with a child one time a week, for one hour, on school grounds, during the school year by reading a story, working puzzles, playing catch, drawing, or just being a friend. Professional training and support are provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama YMCA, Inc. For more information or to volunteer, contact Polly at 251-344-0536 ext. 104. Eastern Shore Art Center A non-profit arts organization located in beautiful downtown Fairhope, the Art Center houses four galleries with exhibits that change monthly, as well as a gallery featuring member artists’ work for sale. Admission is free. 401 Oak Street, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928.2228 or visit www.eseartcenter.com. The Exploreum The Exploreum is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. For tickets or more information visit www.exploreum.com or call 251-208-6873. 65 Government Street, Mobile. Fairhope Museum of History The museum is full of artifacts from old Fairhope. You can see displays on Clay City, the Single Tax Association and the Civil War. You can also see personal belongings from some of Fairhope’s first families. The museum is located in downtown Fairhope at 24 North Section Street. The museum is open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, call 929-1474. Marietta Johnson Museum This museum was founded to preserve the oldest school building in Baldwin Country, which was founded in 1907 by famed educator Marietta Johnson. Known as one of the first progressive schools in the world, the museum includes historic letters, documents, and artifacts from the school’s heyday, as well as biographical information about Marietta Johnson. To learn more, visit www.mariettajohnson.org. Open Mondays-Fridays from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free. 440 Fairhope Ave. 990-8601. Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve The Weeks Bay Reserve has a free educational interpretive center and two boardwalks. The Interpretive Center houses a multitude of exhibits, habitat models, specimen collections and a diorama giving the visitor a better understanding about the value of estuaries, diversity of coastal wetlands, and a close-up look at living plants and animals of coastal Alabama. Admission is free. Hours are Monday – Saturday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. 11300 US Highway 98, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928-9792 or visit www.weeksbay.org.
Get lost and have fun on a farm! MAZE OPEN OCTOBER - NOVEMBER Bring your child for a one of kind birthday experience Getting Lost and Having Fun at the same time... We offer several BIRTHDAY PACKAGES to choose from with easy to use reservations from our website. Pick your Saturday and book online. Pay when you arrive for your birthday party.
SAT 1 OAM-9PM 228-641-3936 For more info, pricing or directions: Classes/Meetings
Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) Offering Adoptive Family Support Group Meetings in Baldwin County the 3rd Monday of each month. The meeting is held at Eastern Shore Church of Christ, 1209 Daphne Ave, in Daphne from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Parent, Youth/Teen group and childcare is available. Topic discussions by adoption professionals and ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information call 251-4602727 or 1-800-489-1886 or www.childrensaid.org. APAC also offers free counseling services to adoptive families. Celebration MOPS Fairhope Celebration MOPS meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. at Celebration Church, 8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope. Childcare is provided and is included in the fees. There is an annual $23.95 MOPS International membership fee and $30 per semester. Call the church office for info at 251-928-0343 or like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/celebrationmopsfairhopeal.
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Daily Living Skills Group for parents with children on the Spectrum Held the second Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at The Family Center, 27365 Pollard Road, Daphne. Focus is on daily living needs of families and their children, such as: Safety issues; How to have a family dinner out; Ways to assist with transition; How to talk with people who stare; Your questions, comments and suggestions. Limited childcare slots are available. For more information, please contact Judy Bradshaw: (251) 990-7781. Daphne Neurological Disease Support Group (Includes Parkinson’s Disease, epilepsy). Meets second Monday of each month at Daphne United Methodist Church, 2401 Main Street, Daphne, in the Community Life Center-Gathering Room. 11:00 a.m. until noon. Noon light lunch for $3 from 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. Speaker or joint group session. Contact person: Alice Hallford - 251-626-8228.
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Family Calendar
July2016 MOPS on the Eastern Shore MOPS stands for “Mothers of Preschoolers” - but don’t let that confuse you. MOPS is about meeting the needs of every mom of a child from conception through kindergarten with local groups of moms just like you. 7100 Spanish Fort Blvd., Spanish Fort. 1st Thursday of the Month (September through May). Dinner & Child Care are provided. 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. http://www.mopsontheeasternshore. shutterfly.com/ Facebook.com/MopsOnTheEasternShore.
Fairhope MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) We meet 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. every 2nd & 4th Monday (during the school year) at Fairhope United Methodist Church. All mothers of young children are welcome. Email fairhopemops@yahoo.com for how to register. Father Central of Daphne *Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men, $75 giftcard upon completion. Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Call 251-626-1610 to register, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Chill Skills” - Anger Management by appointment. $25 giftcard upon completion. Call 251-626-1610 schedule, The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Nurturing Parenting, everything you need to know but were afraid to ask. Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Jump in on any Thursday! Call 251-6261610 to register, 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne.
Shepherd’s Place (Christian Life Center) Ministry for memory & physically challenged. Mondays & Wednesdays 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 South Section Street, Fairhope. 928-1148. Single Mom Ministry Sponsored by Fairhope Avenue Baptist Church, this prayer and support group for single moms is designed to provide a safe and prayerful environment where group members are able to express themselves among others who will listen, care, and lift each other up. Each participant will receive one bag of non-perishable food items each week. Child care will be provided. Light snacks and soft drinks will be served. Meetings are held every Tuesday from 6-7 PM at Fairhope Avenue Baptist Family Life Center, 8717 Fairhope Ave. 251-928-0890. SOS (Survivors of Suicide) This group is for adults who has ever lost a loved one to suicide. If it has been 5 days or 50 years since the loss, this group is here for you. SOS meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of EVERY month from 6:30 to approximately
8:00 p.m. at the Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 S. Section Street, Fairhope. The support group, which has been around since November, 2012, is facilitated by a professional and co-facilitated by two survivors. There are no dues. For more information, please email jlbarber5@bellsouth.net or call 251-455-6453. Tango by the Bay ~ Argentine Basic classes are held every Tuesday from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. in Fairhope at Southern Edge Dance Studio, located behind Pizza Hut across from Thomas Hospital. 251 South Greeno, Fairhope. $5 per class (fee may be higher with special guest instructors). For more information Contact Ben Samel at 605-2657 or Cassie Fishbein 377-4069, cassief13@aol.com. South Baldwin Regional Medical Center offers the following classes: Your entire family can take part in several informative classes designed to help moms and dads welcome their special new addition to the family with more confidence. Classes cover topics including: Having A Healthy Pregnancy Nutrition, discomforts of pregnancy, warning signs of complications, and relaxation exercises. One session. $10. Prepared Childbirth Classes (Once a week for four weeks). Cost: $30 Week 1: Begin the Stages of Labor: The labor and delivery process, signs and stages of labor, options for coping, pain management, vaginal delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 2: Delivery and Cesarean Birth: A review of complications that may arise, use of special equipment, complete the stages of labor, cesarean delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 3: New Born and Postpartum Care: Newborn appearance, caring for the newborn, infant safety,
NORTH BALDWIN PEDIATRICS
Celebrates 10 Years
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Family Calendar recognizing complications, relaxation exercises, and choosing a pediatrician. What to expect after delivery, understanding the physical and emotional changes to your body, and relaxation exercises. Week 4: The Art of Breast Feeding: The benefits of breast feeding for mother and baby, anatomy and physiology of the breast, how to breastfeed, and common difficulties. One session. • Tiny Toes members may enroll in Yoga, Water Aerobics and Expectant Mother Exercise classes through the Snook Family YMCA. The fee is $5 a class. There is a $3 fee for child care. There is no fee if you are already a member of the YMCA. All classes are located at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center–1613 North McKenzie Street Foley. Tuesday evenings 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Classroom A. Located just off of the main lobby. • Please plan to attend the Healthy Pregnancy Class during your first trimester and the Prepared Childbirth Classes anytime after your 24th week of pregnancy. For more information or to enroll please call the OB Educator at 9493676 to schedule. We look forward to sharing this special time with you! Method of payment accepted: Visa, Master Card, Discover, AmEx, Debit Card. Gift of Life The Gift of Life is a required maternity care program for Medicaid patients or Medicaid-eligible patients. The Gift of Life Program provides a caring system of prenatal services; education and care coordination for expectant moms and their babies. For information please contact 949-3781. Thomas Hospital offers the following classes: Breastfeeding Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Monthly, first Tuesday, 6 - 8 p.m. Free. Infant CPR and Safety Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Pre-registration required. To register call 279-1373. Saturdays, 4 - 6 p.m.
July2016
Moving Through Labor Childbirth Classes Three or four-week prepared childbirth class series which prepares the mother-to-be and her support partner for the labor and delivery experience. $30 fee for the class series. Thomas Fitness Center, (Fairhope) Mondays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope) Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Tuesdays, 6-8:30 p.m. Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Pre-registration required. Call 251- 279-1373 or visit www. thomashospital.com for upcoming classes and registration. Natural Childbirth Classes, Fertility Awareness, Mother’s Comfort, Exercise and Nutrition For class schedule or more information call Geralyn Piizzotti, 251- 928-9396. Yourbodyyourbirth@bellsouth.net. Newborn Basics Class Held on the second Monday of every month from 6 – 8 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Free. No Preregistration required. Pre-admission Sessions 6 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Pre-registration required. Sibling Class Thomas Hospital Fitness Center (Fairhope). Pre-registration required. To register call 279-1373. 10 - 11 a.m. Thomas Hospital offers the following support groups for the community: Alanon (Alcoholics Anonymous) Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 800-477-1104 for more information. Alateen Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room East Tower meeting room at Thomas Hospital. Call 391-1152 for more information.
Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 345-7645 or 438-9590 for more information. ALS Support Group Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month from 11 a.m. to noon at Thomas Medical Center. Call 205937-4415 for more information. Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Health Resource Center located at: 308 S. Greeno Road, Fairhope. Call 928-8650 for more information. Cancer Support Group for Women Meetings are held the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room. For more information, call Patti Huval at 209-1229. Diabetes Support Group Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Diabetes Center. Call 279-1700 for more information. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Support Group Meetings are held every Thursday night from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 251- 9656264 for more information. Parkinson’s Support Group Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month from noon to 1 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251455-9919 for more information. Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Support Group Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251626-6337 for more information. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of these calendar events. However, you should call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.
Infant - 6 years old
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Sow the seeds of lifelong learning and success. Eastern Shore Location
28765 N. Main Street
Daphne, AL
WeinackersMontessori.com 75
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Central Intelligence
Finding Dory MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: B+ Sexual Content: ALanguage: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Finding Dory PG for mild thematic elements. Picking up where Finding Nemo left off, Marlin (voice of Albert Brooks), his son Nemo (voice of Hayden Rolence) and their good-butforgetful-friend Dory (voice of Ellen DeGeneres) are happily settled in the clown fishes’ coral reef. Then a discussion about aquatic animals migrating home suddenly reminds the blue tang fish that she once had a family. Eager not to let the memory slip away, Dory determines to search for her mother and father (voices of Diane Keaton and Eugene Levy). Although she usually doesn’t remember important things, Dory knows she will need someone to go with her so she can stay focused on her quest. Reluctantly the risk-adverse Marlin and the naïvely-optimistic Nemo agree to accompany her. With only a cloudy clue about a California location, the trio crosses the ocean. However, once within the shadow of their destination (which turns out to be an aquarium for injured and/or endangered marine life), Dory’s reckless enthusiasm, coupled with her memory lapses, soon separates the group. And that leaves the father and son desperately trying to find Dory, while she distractedly seeks the whereabouts of her parents. Both hijinks and peril ensue as the befuddled Dory evades predators, swims in and out of trouble, and befriends an octopus named Hank (voice of Ed O’Neill) who is on the run from the Institute’s staff. While the danger never seems too intense, the many times the tang fish gets lost and is left all alone may generate some emotional distress for young audience members – especially if any of them have ever had the misfortune of misplacing their caregivers. Yet in true Disney/Pixar style, this animation offers an amazing visual feast, along with a plot full of food for thought. Using Dory’s short term memory loss as a spring board, the script explores learning disorders and other types of challenges. While her friends and some strangers aren’t always as patient with her shortcomings as they could be, the feisty fish’s determination in the face of obstacles soon solicits their sympathy. Meanwhile, her disability becomes a motivation for her to find other hidden abilities. Her example is an inspiration to all, because everyone comes with faults and failings – including many of the other depicted characters. The trick is to learn how to have our strengths compensate for our weaknesses, while in the process remembering to show kindness and understanding to those who have imperfections different from our own. With a minimum of content issues and plenty of creative humor, this powerful message, plus themes of teamwork and the importance of friends and family, are sure to make Finding Dory unforgettable.
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: CSexual Content: BLanguage: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Central Intelligence PG-13 for crude and suggestive humor, some nudity, action violence and brief strong language. Dwayne Johnson is known for his philanthropic work with young people and that theme is a strong component in Central Intelligence. We meet Johnson’s character, Robbie Weirdicht, when he is an obese, bullied high school senior. Inexplicably, he’s enjoying a long shower and dancing up a storm in the locker room while the final assembly of the year is taking place. That’s when a small gang of kids find and drag him, literally butt naked (his rear is seen), into the center of the gym. The only classmate that comes to his rescue is Calvin (Kevin Hart), the coolest, can-do-anything guy in the school. Fast forward twenty years and Calvin has married his high school sweetheart (Danielle Nicolet) and works as an accountant. He’s just been rejected for a promotion, which has left him feeling disenchanted with his life. His anxiety is even more heightened when the man who used to be Robbie contacts him through Facebook and convinces him they should meet. Calvin quickly discovers that a different name (he now goes by Bob Stone) is not all that has change about his former acquaintance. He has also morphed into… well… Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Yet for all his newfound assurance, bulging muscles and ability to take down thugs (which he soon demonstrates), Stone still retains much of his former persona -- evidenced by his black fanny pack, rainbow enhanced unicorn t-shirt and quirky personality. After a few drinks the towering, charismatic character talks Calvin into helping him sort out some financial issues… and that’s when the adventure begins. Before he knows what’s happening, Calvin finds himself in a violent situation and isn’t sure if he should be joining the tough guy and accepting his offer of protection, or assisting the CIA agents who are pursuing Stone. Built to showcase the comedic talents of Hart and Johnson, the action plot is merely a framework that strings together a myriad of comedic setups. Still the fun fades after the first half-hour when we begin wanting more story to go with the snickers. Perhaps the greatest disappointment is the amount of violence that obscures a potentially powerful lesson about self-confidence. As well, salty language is peppered throughout the film, including a single sexual expletive, many scatological slangs and crude anatomical terms.
What Parents need to know about Central Intelligence...
Violence: Many scenes depict the use of guns and weapons, along with handto-hand confrontations. Most of these scenes are free of detailed violence and blood effects, except for a repeated depiction of a man in a blood-covered glass elevator and a dismembered body part. A character is tortured -- we later see a severely dislocated finger. Teenagers and adults exhibit bullying behavior. In a high school setting a group of teens carry a naked male student from the shower room into a crowded gymnasium and throw him on the floor. A pickedon character punches another. Sexual Content: Male buttock nudity is seen in a non-sexual context. A man takes his clothes off at a high school reunion to reveal his physical transformation from an obese teen into a muscular adult -- we see him from the waist up with brief buttock nudity. Sexual innuendo is heard. Characters kiss. Language: The script includes one use of the sexual expletive in a non-sexual context along with frequent use of scatological slang, crude anatomical terms, some sexual innuendo and vulgar expressions. Alcohol / Drug Use: A hero character tries to convince another character to rapidly drink shots in a bar.
What Parents need to know about Finding Dory...
Violence: A character constantly forgets things and gets lost, which makes her feel frightened and alone. Other characters occasionally become impatient with her memory problem. Characters are frequently in mildly perilous situations, which include being captured and trapped, touched by unfriendly hands and chased by predators. Vehicles are driven recklessly and a truck is destroyed. A cunning character escapes from his exhibit and uses creative measures to avoid being caught. Some mild bullying is depicted. Slapstick antics are plentiful. Characters grieve over the loss of loved ones. Sexual Content: The script contains some mild sexual innuendo and infrequent bathroom humor. A slang word for a body part is used. Language: Some mild name-calling occurs. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. Other: Several characters have handicaps or impaired abilities that present challenges for them. Eastern Shore Parents I June 2016
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