Mobile Bay Parents April 2019 by KeepSharing

join us for a whole week of

SATURDAY, APRIL 6

SUNDAY, APRIL 21

SPRING BAZAAR

EASTER SUNRISE AT THE PARK

Easter Fun for all

9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Crafts | Art Work | A variety of products for everyone Interested in becoming a vendor? Visit to christunited.com/springbazaar.

FAMILY EASTER EXPERIENCE 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Inflatables | Games Food Trucks | Creative and exciting puppet and drama presentation | Easter Egg Hunt

He is Risen! Celebrate Easter with us. 7:00 a.m. | Medal of Honor/Cottage Hill Park Pavilion Bring kids and pets and celebrate the Risen King at our sunrise service at the park. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chair or a blanket.

TRADITIONAL EASTER WORSHIP

MODERN EASTER WORSHIP

8:00 a.m. | 9:15 a.m. | 10:40 a.m. Christ United - Sanctuary Enjoy a vibrant, exciting traditional family worship. There will be a special moment and gift for all children.

8:00 a.m. | 9:15 a.m. | 10:40 a.m. Christ United - Christ Center Join us for a special child-friendly, high-energy, worship with passionate preaching and an incredible live band. Each child will receive a special gift.

These are just a few of our Easter celebrations we have planned. Be sure to check us out online for the complete list!

April2019

Volume 9 Number 1

41 Columns

Mom of the Month 4

Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LMSW

More Energy for Mom Common Sense Media How girls are seeking approval online and what a parent can do.

Simple and inexpensive (or free) ways to up your daily beat.

Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Is That a Nightmare or a Night Terror? We all experience dreams while sleeping. And from time to time we have all suffered nightmares, those unsettling dreams that have a tendency to jolt us from sleep. In most cases, when a child wakes up crying or scared, it’s because they’ve had a nightmare. Less frequent are night terrors, also known as “sleep terrors,” which afflict around 5% of children. These usually occur in children 3-12 years old– though they’ve been seen in children as young as 1– and are slightly more common with boys than girls. Night terrors are entirely different from nightmares and can be more disturbing to parents. Nightmares most frequently occur during the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) stage of sleep, which begins roughly 90 minutes after falling asleep. Because REM sleep is a “light” stage, we are often able to recall much of what occurred in a dream or nightmare after we’ve awoken. By contrast, night terrors occur during the deepest of the sleep stages. In many cases, night terrors happen

Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

when a child has transitioned too quickly between REM sleep and deep sleep. The transition is normally smooth and inconspicuous, but when it happens too fast, it can be frightening. This is more common when a child is extremely tired, sick, or stressed. A child experiencing night terrors may scream, sit upright, thrash about, or act as if they are extremely scared. Some of the cries can seem all too real, especially if a child’s eyes are open. Asking the child a question like “Where are you?” or “Who am I?” is a good way to determine whether they’re awake or in the midst of a night terror. Children experiencing night terrors can be difficult to awaken. They may seem confused afterward, completely unaware of what has happened, and unable to recall things that may have frightened them during the episode, which can last as long as 30 minutes. Additionally, when a child is awakened from a night terror, it can take a long time for

them to return to sleep. Ideally, if the child is safe and at no risk of injury, it’s best to not to wake them. Wait for the night terror to conclude and they will most likely lay back down on their own. Understandably, night terrors can be scary for parents. In most cases, however, there’s no risk to a child’s health and episodes will stop as the child grows older. While there is no treatment for night terrors, the best way to prevent them is by practicing good sleep hygiene. In practical terms, this means having a regular bedtime routine, limiting caffeine during the day, and ensuring they get enough sleep during a 24 hour period. Jennifer Adair, M.D., was born and raised in Mobile. She joined Children’s Medical Group in July 2013 and currently practices at their Airport office. Jennifer and her husband, Cory, reside in Mobile with their son, Finn, and their three dogs, Barkley, Fitz, and Roo.

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Autauga County Schools

Hankins NJHS Volunteers at Mobile SPCA

This month, Hankins Middle School’s National Junior Honor Society club volunteered at the Mobile Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). The students aided in preparing for fundraising events, sprucing up the grounds, and taking care of the animals. The club’s Vice President, Keomonica Johnny (pictured in the top row in the middle), said that she enjoyed the experience and is looking forward to volunteering at the Mobile SPCA again.

Davidson Students Participate in Mobile Arc Parade

Several of our Warriors participated in the 37th annual Mobile Arc Mardi Gras parade during Mardi Gras season. The students designed their own float with the help of their teachers Ms. Young, Ms. Sanders, and Mr. Diamond. The float they made had a Chinese New Year theme. Way to go Warriors and laissez les bon temps roulez!

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National History Day Mobile County Winners from Burns

Burns Winners at MCPSS History Day 2018-2019 (Junior Division): Hannah Cowart and Blakely Anderson (1st Group Exhibit), Gregory Watson (2nd Documentary), Grayson Morgan (1st Documentary), Fynley Isaak and Patsy Cole (2nd Group Exhibit), Valerie Reindl (3rd Website), Richard Pham (1st Website) Congratulations to these students and their teachers. A special thank you to Mrs. Cravey and Mrs. Howell for the time and effort that you devote to The National History Day program.

Old Shell Road Magnet School Celebrates Read Across America

Students at Old Shell Road School of Creative and Performing Arts celebrated Read Across America and had our final celebration on Friday as the faculty and staff dressed in Dr. Seuss book characters. The excitement continued throughout the day with fun activities weaved throughout our instruction including Talents Unlimited activities. The first grade students ended their day with a special Dr. Seuss themed snack. Our kindergarten students took a field trip to see Baker High School’s production of “Seussical”. Ms. Brown, our Principal, dressed as the Cat in the Hat and enjoyed story time with students. We had an awesome day celebrating Dr. Seuss’ Birthday! Pictured are Principal Christi Brown with Mrs. Jessica Drews’ kindergarten class. Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

A “Royal Reading” at E.R. Dickson Elementary

On Thursday, February 28, E.R. Dickson students were treated to some “Royal” Readers. Students were treated to readers from the Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association (MAMGA) and the Mobile Carnival Association (MCA). The “Royal” readers chose popular Dr. Seuss books to read to their loyal subjects. Pictured with the E.R. Dickson Student Council are MAMGA King Terrell Patrick, MCA Queen Ebie Douglas, and MAMGA Queen Katherine White. Also in attendance were MAMGA Grand Marshal, Dr. Alex White and his wife, Mrs. Mary White, MAMGA Junior Monarch King Drew Mason Merriweather, and MAMGA Junior Monarch Queen Jordan Allison Chow.

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Satsuma Student Places in Top 6 at 2019 HOSA State Competition

We would like to congratulate Ms. Shani P. for her accomplishments at the HOSA State Competition. Shani placed in the top 6 in the state of Alabama for Nurse Assistant. Satsuma High School prides itself in offering a very diverse set of career technical programs to our students. It is great to see one of our students excel in one of these areas.

Faith Academy Student Named State Champion in Long Jump

Jordan Moss of Faith Academy walked away a state champion in the long jump at the AHSAA 4A-5A State Indoor Track and Field meet. It was the first year for Faith Academy to have an indoor track and field team. Congratulations!

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Our Sailing Hearts Beat for Kids

benefiting

The Fairhope Yacht Club and Children’s of Alabama present

The Children’s Cup Regatta

Saturday, May 11, 2019 Rain or Shine Fairhope Yacht Club

101 Volanta Avenue | Fairhope, AL 36532

Skipper

$25 Youth Boat Entry $50 Adult Boat Entry

Cruiser’s Crawl

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Causey Student Makes All-State Scholar’s Bowl Team

Kids Activity Area | Silent Auction | Cash Bar | Live Music

Congratulations to Causey Middle School’s 8th grade student, Will Simm, for making the AllState Scholar’s Bowl team! We are very proud of you and the entire Scholar’s bowl team.

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Autauga County Schools

MGM Engineering Students Win First Place at USA Competition

MGM's engineering students recently competed in the 2019 ASCE High School Conference held at the University of South Alabama. Mrs. Touchstone's sophomore PLTW (Project Lead the Way) class competed against seniors from MGM, Murphy, Spanish Fort, and Citronelle. MGM dominated the competition with Mrs. Touchstone's class winning 1st place in concrete canoe, 1st place in water filtration, 3rd place in balsa bridge and receiving 1st place overall. In addition, Mr. Bitzer's class placed 2nd in concrete canoe and 2nd place in water filtration. Congratulations to MGM's engineering students!

Celebrating 101 Days at St. Dominic Catholic School

Saint Dominic Catholic School First Grade students celebrated the 101st Day of School by transforming into dalmatians. First Grade teacher, Mrs. Amy Heim joined the fun by becoming Cruella De Vil! Students enjoyed playing games, having special treats, and watching the movie â&#x20AC;&#x153;101 Dalmatiansâ&#x20AC;?! Pictured is Mrs. Heim's First Grade class.

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

Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

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UMS-Wright Seniors Host Senior/Senior Prom

At UMS-Wright, our Student Life department provides opportunities for all students to make a positive impact in the community. For more than ten years, the Senior class has hosted a prom at the Atria Regency Senior Center. This prom is one of the highly anticipated events for seniors each year. A DJ plays a variety of generational music for all ages to enjoy hours of dancing, singing and visiting!

Electrical Safety Lesson at Little Flower Catholic School

Little Flower Catholic School's fourth graders learned about electrical safety when a representative from Alabama Power visited the school. The Safe-T-Opolis program gave students safety tips about flying kites near power lines, keeping electrical appliances away from water, staying away from power lines, and other situations concerning electrical power.

Mobile Christian School Band Performs at Universal Studios Orlando The Mobile Christian School Marching Band marched through the streets of Universal Studios Orlando, Florida in front of an international audience and cheering spectators on Friday, February 22. The performance was part of the Universal Orlandoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Star Performance Program.

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Autauga County Schools

Allentown Elementary School February GATOR Kids

Pre-K – 2nd Grade: Front Row: Rosie Dishman, Palon West, Sami Howard, Kennedy Loper, Braydan Waltman, Lindsey Dunn, Brantley Cross. Middle Row: Tristin Strom, Addison Turner, Bria Hockaday-Simon, Colton Barry, Gene Hall, Jennifer Lopez, Kinsley Flowers. Back Row: Weston Taylor, Gabby Hughes, Ella Williamson, Janet Johnston, Jordan Kiper, Claire King. 3rd – 5th Grade: Front Row: Greyson Lloyd, Samantha Hamman, Addyson Williams, Jaylon Hughes, Andrew Roberts. Middle Row: Preston Patronas, Tyler Ann Collard, Baylee Alexander, Lylah Richardson, Kaitlin Clayton, Maria Francisco, Ayden Phillips, Hunter

Rider. Back Row: Karis Singleterry, Brooksyn Conner, Jaylin Roberts, Ashlynn Weaver, Sierra Busby, Miquel Kidd.

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

Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

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CHCA Inducts New National Junior Honor Society Members

The Cottage Hill Christian Academy National Junior Honor Society induction ceremony was held on Tuesday, February 19, in the Cottage Hill Baptist Church Worship Center with twenty-nine middle school students being inducted into this prestigious honor society. Those inducted not only excel in scholarship but also meet the five pillars of excellence required for membership in the NJHS: scholarship, citizenship, leadership, service, and character. The ceremony featured speeches from current NJHS members on those five pillars of NJHS membership as well as remarks from middle school teachers and administration. A reception was held in the atrium following the ceremony. The new inductees are: William Andrews, Calista Baxley, Luke Beauchamp, Hunter Behr, Hampton Broders, Emily Burt, Nixon Cartee, Riley Chason, Reagan Constantine, Destiney Dees, Ashley Enfinger, Allyson Ho, Christopher Ho, William Hogan, Andi Johnson, Colin McGrain, Corrine Nelson, Isabel Oldshue, Benjamin Oliver, Samarhia Pettaway, Reagan Ray, Ayina Richardson, Ruby Steedley, Emma Rose Tillman, Roger Vardaman, Nathan Vo, William Westbrook, Houston Winter, and Hailey Youngblood.

Mobile Schools Celebrate African American History Month

Schools from around the county observed African American History Month in February with a variety of programs. Several held living wax museum exhibits, where students selected prominent figures from African American history, researched their stories, and dressed as those figures while presenting what they learned. One student at Robbins Elementary chose MCPSS Superintendent Chresal Threadgill. Others chose famous historical figures like George Washington Carver (pictured, as portrayed by Gilliard student Ashley Pope) and Harriet Tubman (pictured, as portrayed by Gilliard student Esmerelda Gonzalez). Other schools performed plays or held special assemblies. At Chastang-Fournier, representatives of the Buffalo Soldiers, Tuskegee Airmen and Montford Point Marines spoke to eighth-graders about the challenges of African Americans serving in the military in segregated times in a program sponsored by the Mobile Metropolitan Medical Society.

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Autauga CountyMobile SchoolsCounty Science Fair Winners

Mobile Christian President’s Day Program

Dunbar Magnet seventh grader Dakota Perry started her science project with a simple question: Which areas have the most polluted water, rural or urban? She scouted out areas to test using Google maps, took water samples and tested them for contaminants. Her findings: Water from rural areas had more pollution, largely due to fertilizer runoff and dumping. The contaminant she found most often in water from rural areas was lead, while she found cyanuric acid most prevalent in urban areas. “I was extremely surprised at how much lead there was,” said Perry. Perry’s project, “Water Pollution: Urban vs. Rural,” was named Best in Show at the 2019 Mobile County Science Fair. Lauren McDonald of Mary G. Montgomery won the high school division for her animal science project: “The significance and effect of certain substances and environmental dynamics on the heart rate of Daphnia Magna.” Phillips Prep’s Matthew Alexander won the middle school division for his engineering project: “Science with a Magnet Train.” Jake Aponte, also of Phillips Prep, won the Bramuchi Fay Family Horizon Award for the top project by a sixth-grader, and Lott Middle’s Bradyn Rivers won the Susann Ford Pierce Patriot Award for Excellence in Scientific Investigation.

Mobile Christian First Graders are pictured dressed up for their President's Day Program. For 25 years, Mobile Christian School has put on this program to help students see how presidents, first ladies, and other famous Americans worked together to build our country. The children learn fun facts as well as important events for the various famous Americans represented in the program.

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Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

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St. Pius X Royalty

Queen Molly Head and King Harris Jacobs reigned over the St. Pius X Mardi Gras Season which began with a royal luncheon in their honor on Tuesday, February 19. The Queen and King, along with their courts, led the St. Pius X Crewe de la Cardinal Parade on Wednesday, February 27. Molly is the daughter of Matt and Mary Head and Harris is the son of Ross and Summer Jacobs.

Locate Children with Disabilities What is Child Find?

Child Find is a county-wide effort by Mobile County Public School System to locate, identify, and evaluate children with disabilities from birth to aee 21.

Why Is Child Find Important?

How Does Child Find Work?

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To help the child, the family, and the provider to plan appropriate services and link families to services for students meeting eligibility requirements in the following disability areas:

Early Intervention and Special Education Ser vices work closely with community service agencies, parents, and local school systems to locate children with disabilities. A toll-free number is provided for parents or other persons interested in information about referring a child from birth to age 21.

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Help Child Find

•Hearing lmpainnent •Deaf-Blindness •Intellectual Disability •Multiple Disabilities •Orthopedic Impairment •Other Health lmpainnent •Emotional Disability

For more information about Child Find Contact your local school system, local coordination council, or call

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Alabama State Department of Education Dr. Eric G. Mackey State Superintendent of Education

251-221-4218 Ages 3-21

Grandparents Day at St. Luke’s

St. Luke's lower campus had a wonderful time celebrating Grandparent's/Grand-friends Day (pictured above). The school provided a light breakfast for the grandparents before the entire the students came together in the gym to sing several songs. The Grandparents enjoyed the Krewe of Kindergarten Mardi Gras Parade, visiting the classrooms, and taking pictures. Also, on the upper campus, our middle schoolers invited their grandparents to lunch (pictured below).

•Speech & Language Disabilities •Visual Impairment •Specific Learning Disabilities •Autism •Traumatic Brain Injury •Developmental Delay

Alabama Early Intervention 1-800-543-3098 Chresal D. Threadgill, Superintendent

#Best CRAB EVER 19

Birth through 3

251.626.2188 OriginalOysterHouse.com www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

Autauga County Schools

Covenant Christian School Students Attend “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”

Covenant Christian School’s Jr. High students went on a field trip to see Playhouse in the Park’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” with a special performance by Haylie G., one of our 7th grade students.

Oratorical Contest Winners at Corpus Christi Catholic School

CHCA Senior Service Project

The Cottage Hill Christian Academy senior class participated in a Cottage Hill Baptist Church Love Where You Live project on February 20. CHCA seniors spent the day helping Camp Whispering Pines in Citronelle with several clean up and renovation projects needed in preparation for the upcoming camp season.

Corpus Christi Catholic School held its annual oratorical contest on March 6. The speech contest is sponsored by the Optimist Club and the team was "Is there a fine line between optimism and reality?" Congratulations to the two first-place winners: Anna Watson and Ayden Bastek.

Summer Camps U SA STU D E NT R EC R E ATI O N C E NTE R

S E V E N O N E -WE E K S ES S I O N S B EG I N N I N G J U N E 3 , 2 0 19

Our camps focus on recreational activities such as swimming, rock wall climbing, ping-pong, outdoor games, sports, and more. Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm. Ages: Rising 1st-8th graders.

For registration and cost, visit SouthAlabama.edu/summercamps 51 Stadium Blvd. Mobile, AL 36688 Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

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Causey Softball

Congratulations to the Causey Softball Team which is off to a great start with a 7-1 record so far.

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E.R. Dickson Elementary’s 2018 – 2019 Archery Team

E.R. Dickson’s Archery Team is comprised of a phenomenal group of hard working fourth and fifth grade students. They compete in local archery tournaments in the area. Many of our archers go on to participate in middle school teams where they continue their success as archers. Back Row (L-R) – Ms. Barnette (Sponsor), Mason Pruitt, Naeemah Riley, Sophia Irby, Carter Dunbar, Neshwan Arif, and Logan Ervin. Front Row (L-R) – Conrad Otts, Seren Grider, Tony Presswood, Brayden McGill, and Ms. Dunbar (Sponsor).

Alma Bryant HS Named CLAS Banner School

Alma Bryant High School recently learned it has been named a 2018 CLAS Banner School. The Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools began the Banner program in 2001 to recognize schools in Alabama that showcase outstanding programs and service to students, serving as models for schools around the state. Bryant was honored in part for its partnership with Ingalls Shipbuilding to train the Gulf Coast’s next generation of welders in its Talent Development Lab. “They’ve come in and created welding programs and labs to help the workforce development as students leave school, and it’s made a major impact,” Alma Bryant Principal Doug Estle said of Ingalls. “We have plenty of partners — wonderful partners — but when partners come in like Ingalls and they put in the money, the time and the resources they did to help Alma Bryant with this, it’s tremendous.” Bryant was one of 24 schools recognized earlier this year as 2018 Schools of Distinction — as was another MCPSS school, Tanner Williams Elementary. From that list, Bryant was one of eight schools chosen as Banner Schools.

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Autauga County Schools Cottage Hill

St. Dominic 2019 Distinguished Graduate

Congratulations to Mr. Tim Adams, Saint Dominic Catholic School's 2019 Distinguished Graduate! The NCEA Catholic Elementary School Distinguished Graduate award is presented to a Catholic Elementary School graduate who has made a contribution to the community, reflecting positively on the education received in a Catholic Elementary School. Pictured, Tim and Gretchen Adams with their sons, Mitchell, Luke, Peter, and Phillip, along with Father Pat Driscoll, Pastor at St. Dominic Catholic Church.

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Christian Academy Pride of The Hill

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The CHCA Band, The Pride of The Hill, traveled to Huntingdon College for the AISA Regional Band competition in February where they scored an Excellent rating from the judges and won several awards. Mya Nichols, Katelyn Johnson, and Carter Sullivan were chosen to play in the All State Honor Band where they played in an orchestra with 100 band students from around the state. Carter Sullivan was awarded 1st chair Timpani in Honor Band. Congratulations to the CHCA band and Mr. Squires for a job well done.

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BlueBird Pediatric Therapy

Summer Camps

“Building Buddies” “Handwriting Heroes” “Kids Yoga” “Music & Movement” “Fit & Fun” More info at BlueBirdTherapy.com Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

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MGM Represents Region in American Legion Oratorical

Mason O'Rourke, MGM senior, recently competed in the American Legion Oratorical. Mason placed first in Mobile County and the region with the delivery of his 8-10 minute memorized speech entitled "Bearing the Cross of Liberty" and his 2-3 minute assigned topic. He represented the 33rd District at the 3rd Division competition held in Atmore on Saturday, February 23. There, Mason represented MGM, Mobile County, and the 33rd District well, just missing qualification for the state competition.

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

Now registering for the 2019-2020 school year! Established in 1958, Corpus Christi Catholic School provides students in K2 through eighth grade an outstanding education. The mission of Corpus Christi Catholic School is to nurture every child by providing opportunities to grow in faith, achieve academic success, and serve others as disciples of Jesus. 6300 McKenna Drive • Mobile, Alabama 36608 • school. corpuschristiparish.com

Questions? Please contact us: 251.342.5474 • school@corpuschristiparish.com

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Four UMS-Wright Students Named National Merit Scholar Finalists

Four UMS-Wright students have been named as Finalists in the 2019 National Merit Scholarship Corporation competition. Annie Klein, Catherine Lyons, Graf Sullivan, and Brooke Swain were chosen as Finalists out of approximately 15,000 seniors in the United States. These four were identified as semifinalists in September, and all were named as Finalists this month. They will now have the opportunity to advance in the competition for National Merit Scholarships. Over 1.5 million students in over 22,000 high schools entered the competition, and the NMSC estimated that 7,400 will eventually be awarded scholarships. We congratulate each of these students on a job well done, and encourage them as they move on to the next stage of the competition! 23

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Autauga County Schools

Old Shell Road Magnet School Students Hold Living Wax Museum

Fifth graders at Old Shell Road Magnet School held a living wax museum on Thursday, February 28, to showcase individuals who had an influence during the American Revolution. Each student used his or her school provided laptop to complete research on the assigned individual. For their presentations, students constructed posters, wore costumes, and recited monologues. Many different individuals were represented this year. Included were: Molly Pitcher, Thomas Jefferson, Thomas Paine, Betsy Ross, William Prescott, and many others. This event is held each year at Old Shell Road Magnet School. The entire school’s faculty and students visit the presentations to learn a little more about our nation’s history. This year, the fifth grade students once again made Old Shell Road Magnet School proud by delivering an informative, entertaining, and marvelous event. Pictured is Samarrah Franks.

Davidson EPIC Expo Winners

Our Warriors recently participated in the EPIC Expo, where Software Development Students showed off their Microbit Products. EPIC is Davidson’s Signature Academy, which stands for Engineering Pathways Integrated Curriculum. These students started researching their topics in November to present at the end of February. Students built a variety of physical computing devices using Microbits that either solved a problem or demonstrated a global problem: 1) a fishing Game that taught the user about overfishing a population; or 2) a Smart Road that monitored speeding to get a record of the number of speeding cars that traveled over the road on a specific day. Congratulations to the winners, Katie Knowles and William Keahey! Katie built a MicroNews System that communicated news headlines and weather alerts to all devices on the network. William built a wind turbine that powered a low frequency radio transmitter that communicated with other nearby devices. Go Warriors!

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airbus Flight academy • 3d printing •JUNIOR MED CAMP • SPACE CADETS • ASTRO-TOTS • dinosaur dig • csi Mobile • & more! Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

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UMS-Wright Lower School Students Celebrate Read Across America Day

The National Education Association’s Read Across America Day is an annual reading motivation and awareness program that calls for every child in every community to celebrate reading on March 1, the birthday of beloved children’s author Dr. Seuss. Our 1st – 4th grade students dressed as their favorite book characters and paraded around the Lower School campus!

Little Flower Catholic Students Visit Historic Village

Fifth graders from Little Flower Catholic School visited the Historic Pensacola Village. They put their knowledge of colonial America to the test while checking out a historic home and learning about trade and industry. They ended the trip with a beautiful picnic lunch in Seville Square.

Squid Dissection at St. Dominic Catholic School

Students in Marine Science class participated in a Squid Dissection led by Middle School Science Teacher, Mr. John DiPlacido. The students dissected a squid to study this amazing animal's adaptation in order to have a better understanding of living creatures. Marine Science is just one of the many elective courses offered to our Middle School students. Also offered are American Sign Language, Chess, Yearbook/ Newspaper, Crochet, 3-D Printing, and Historical Book Club. Pictured are Sixth Grade students, Seth Lollar, Luke Gechijian, and Noah Huynh.

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Autauga County Schools

Cottage Hill Christian Academy NJHS Service Project

Members of the Cottage Hill Christian Academy National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) had the privilege of serving at the Feed the Coast Mobile Area Food Bank. After instruction and touring the facility, Cottage Hill students sorted and boxed the many food donations recently given to the Feeding the Gulf Coast facility. The items are sorted and boxed in preparation for feeding those who have need in the Gulf Coast area.

MGM Places at MCPSS Science and Engineering Fair

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MGM placed in 7 of the 10 events they entered in the MCPSS Science and Engineering Fair. Lauren McDonald was awarded the Best in High Schools Overall in all categories over all high schools in Mobile County. This is a first in MGM history. In addition, Lauren was also awarded NCWIT Aspirations Award for Alabama. Congratulations to Mr. Mutchnick and his students on their impressive performance at this year's fair!

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

Corpus Christi Catholic School Golden Apple Award Winner

The Golden Apple Award honors those who believe in the true spirit of teaching by making classrooms a fun and safe place for learning. On Friday, February 8, Mr. Bill Riales from WKRG along with Swift Supply, Riviera Utilities, and the Mobile County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office presented Mrs. Toni Brown, a reading coach at Corpus Christi Catholic School, with the Golden Apple Award.

Davidson Warriors Job Shadow Day

Warriors in the workplace! Several Davidson students joined students from other area schools in a job shadow day with VT Mobile Aerospace Engineering at the Brookley Aerospace Complex. The company is a renowned provider of aircraft maintenance and modification (AMM) services for both commercial airlines and air freight operators. Thank you to Colleen Devoe, Junior Achievement, for inviting the schools to take part in this informative day! Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

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Celebrating Seuss’ Birthday at Daphne East

Retired teacher Joann Keller helped Mrs. Yelding’s 1st grade class at Daphne East Elementary celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday.

Griggs Students Place at State Level for PTA Reflections Congratulations to the following Griggs students for placing at the state level for the PTA Reflections contest: Garrett Bolton 1st Place Video Production; Myah O’Hear 1st Place Photography; Kaitlyn Sauce 2nd Place Dance; Blake Sauce 2nd Place Photography; Isabella Brown Honorable Mention Visual Arts; and Lillian Strand Honorable Mention Music Composition.

St. Mary Catholic presents “Seussical”!

St. Mary Catholic School's Encore Drama Club performed "Seussical" under the direction of Drama Teacher, Tammy Nicholas. This musical by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty is based on the favorite stories of Dr. Seuss, based on the plot of “Horton Hears a Who!” Both a student and public performance brought laughter and fun for all.

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award-winning, n a n o t u o s is m Don’t mp for your ca d re te n ce ts ri Ch mmer! daughter this Su On Top of Lookout Mountain in Historic Mentone, Alabama

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www.riverviewcamp.com 27

• Beach Volleyball • Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance • Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program • Campfires every night • Optional trips & more!

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Autauga County Schools

St. Mary Catholic School Floral Parade Fun!

St. Mary Students Kane Angle, Charley Harrison, Jack McCarron, Timothy Talbott, Tucker Byrne, Maddie Sansbury, Maddie West, Sage Bentley, Thomas Wood and Will Blankenship represented The Mighty Mustangs in Dr. Seuss "Throw Me a Book" style! St. Mary Catholic is the birthplace of Mobile's Mardi Gras Juvenile Court!

Congratulations to MCPSS New National Board-Certified Teachers

Mobile County Public Schools congratulates our new National BoardCertified Teachers, who are among the top 3 percent of teachers in the U.S. The certification process requires teachers to exhibit a deep understanding of their students, content knowledge, use of data and assessments and teaching practice. Our new National Board Certified Teachers are: Brian Duke, Charlotte Griffin, Tiffany Brown and Mary Clair Wright of Davidson; Dr. Karla McInnis and Sonya Scott of Mary G. Montgomery; Justin Patterson and Danielle Seymour of Baker; Amy McGowan of Clark-Shaw; Lynn Coulter of Dauphin Island; Amanda Delaney, of Mary B. Austin; and Mandi Leonhardt of Pearl Haskew.

June 11th - June 27th Register online at www.DebbiesDance.com

Princess Camp Age 2 and 3 year olds

Days: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 5:45-6:30 p.m. Week One - Princess Elsa Week Week Two - Princess Cinderella Week Week Three - Princess Elena Week

Ballet Adventure Camp Age 4 and 5 year olds

Days: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 5:45-6:45 p.m. Week One - Greatest Showman Week Two - Mary Poppins Week Three - Moana

JoJo Hip Hop Camp Ages 6 and up

Days: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 6:30-7:30 p.m.

6429 Hillcrest Park Ct. â&#x20AC;˘ Mobile, AL â&#x20AC;˘ 251.633.9559 Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

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Burns Student Places 2nd in County Science Fair

Burns Middle School would like to congratulate Grayson Morgan for placing second in the MCPSS Science Fair. We are proud of you and your accomplishments.

Celebrating Seuss at Covenant Christian

Mrs. Hannanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s K5 Kindergarten class at Covenant Christian participated in celebrating Dr. Seuss just in time for winter break.

St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New National Honor Society Members

Congrats to these new members of the NHS! In February, these new members were inducted during a ceremony. Afterwards, a reception was held for the new inductees and their families.

Discipleship Awards at St. Pius X

St. Pius X presented Discipleship Award for the third quarter following Mass on Thursday, February 28. These students received the award for their exemplary Christian leadership during the third quarter.

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Autauga County Schools

Faith Academy 4H Club Students Participate in Service Projects

Faith Academy 4H "Ram" club participated in “Share 4H Love” day. Students participated in two service projects that share the 4H philosophy: Heads, Hearts, Hands, and Health. Students collected items for the Woman’s Resource Center (WRC) here in Mobile. Mrs. Kathy Bagwell, a teacher and volunteer at the center, shared the WRC's purpose along with how the center will use the items. Students completed the day with a clean sweep of three of the main hallways: cleaning windows, wiping down door handles and picking up trash. It was a great day of service to our community and school!

Prichard Board Members Participate in Black History Month Celebration

PPS Board Chairman, Ricardo Woods, with Burr Forman, LLP, and Board Member, Kenyen Brown, with Maynard, Cooper and Gale, PC, participated in the Black History Month Celebration. Mr. Brown’s speech was full of inspiring examples of history-making African-Americans who led the way for others to follow. After introducing Mr. Brown, Mr. Woods closed the celebration with prayer. PPS is blessed to have two such dedicated and supportive board members! Pictured L – R is Ricardo Woods, Sharan Smith, Yvette Myles, Latoria Parrish-Lowe, Dannette Barker, and Kenyen Brown.

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Little Flower Catholic Students Learn to Tell Time

Mobile Christian Students Visit Probate Court

The 4th graders from Mobile Christian visited Probate Court after attending the investiture of Judge Jill Phillips. A mock election was set up for students to participate in to learn about the voting process in Mobile County.

Counting down the minutes until recess comes easily when you can watch the hands of the clock spin around. Little Flower Catholic School second graders practiced telling time by completing a roll and color activity.

St. Luke’s Krewe of Kindergarten Parade

St. Luke's students had a blast as they had their lower campus' annual Krewe of Kindergarten Parade. This event also tied in with Grandparent's Day for all to enjoy! Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

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St. Luke’s HiQ Team Earns Spot in Semi-Finals

Headed into the last regular match of the season versus Bryant and Vigor, the St. Luke’s HiQ team needed 33 points to get the best seeding in the semi-finals. With only one question left in the round - a question that was a must win we buzzed in before the other two teams and got it right! St. Luke’s ended the regular season with a 5th place finish and a spot in the semi-finals against Bryant and Satsuma! 30

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Baker Student Named State Winner in Poetry Out Loud Competition

Baker High School’s Garrett Whalen recently won 1st place in the Alabama Poetry Out Loud National Recitation Competition. Whalen, who advanced from school and regional competitions to the state level, recited three poems: "Symptoms of Prophecy" by Camille Rankine, "Sonnet 18" by William Shakespeare, and "Happiness" by Jane Kenyon. As the state winner, he'll go to Washington, D.C., in May to represent Alabama in the national finals.

Prichard Prep Celebrates Black History Month

Our Black History Month Celebration included the Gettysburg Address recited by 1st grade student, Samiyah Edwards, the PPS Student Prayer and Mission Statement led by 5th grade student, Genesis McCants, “Still I Rise” recited by 4th grade student, Jordyn Bassa, and the PPS Ensemble performing “I Sing Because I’m Happy.” The LeFlore High School dance troupe, Moving Images, performed an inspiring dance presentation. The program ended with Ms. Dannette Barker leading “Life Ev’ry Voice and Sing.” Pictured is 1st grade student, Samiyah Edwards.

Burns Middle School Teacher of the Year

Congratulations to Mrs. Ronda Hardy for being named the 2018-2019 Teacher of the year for Burns Middle School. Mrs. Hardy has taught at Burns Middle School for the past 21 years. Mrs. Hardy is involved in several extra-curricular activities where she gets students involved in the school and community service. She is the Builders Club Service sponsor, the Flag Corp. sponsor and Hardy's Helping Hands leader. Mrs. Hardy loves teaching and models one of her favorite quotes. "Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all"—Aristotle 31

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Autauga County Schools

Mobile United Student Leaders of the Month

Mobile United named its first-ever Student Leaders of the Month recently: Jermaine Brand, a pre-k student at Just 4, and Kayla Hamrick, a sophomore at Mary G. Montgomery High School. The students were selected based on their character, leadership, service to others, attendance and grades. Jermaine Brand practices small acts of kindness like picking up trash off the floor and opening doors when someone has his or her hands full. If children are feeling sad, he asks them if they are okay and offers to give them a hug. He is known for using his center time to make them cards so his classmates will feel better, according to the nomination form submitted by his school. He is kind, considerate and always thinks of others. He greets others in passing and remembers every teachers’ name so he can say hello to them. “You are pretty special and you are making a difference, not just with people who you know, but with people who don’t know you but who have read about you,” his teacher, Ginny Green, explained as Mobile United and MCPSS representatives surprised him in his classroom to give him the award. “I can’t wait to see what you do when you are 5 and 6 and 16,” Green added. Kayla Hamrick volunteers to do the work that others may not always be willing to do, including taking out the garbage and vacuuming, and even staying late after school to blow up 500 noisemakers for a pep rally. She has organized a school-wide blood drive and helped sort through donated clothing for a local elementary school. She has also volunteered at elementary school field days. She does this with a servant’s heart, and she serves because she understands the fulfillment that comes from placing others first, according to the nomination form submitted by her school. She doesn’t compete for high profile officer positions in multiple clubs. Instead, she joins, invests herself and does the work. “I just feel like the more good that I can do, the better I can help make the world, and maybe I can influence other people to do better,” Kayla said. “There’s a lot of bad that you hear on the news, but if I can just spread that little bit of good, even if other people don’t see it or know that I started it, maybe I can make a big difference.” Mobile United, a local non-profit organization with the mission of “uniting our community through deliberative dialogue to train, convene, and engage leaders from across our community for positive action”, started its Student Leader of the Month program as a result of a meeting with MCPSS Superintendent Chresal Threadgill, who encouraged the group to help focus on the positive things happening in the schools.

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

Watoto Children’s Choir Visits LWCC Kingdom Academy!

Living Word Christian Center had the privilege of hosting the Watoto Children’s Choir from Uganda, Africa. The children’s choir held an impactful evening concert through very energetic dance and song and life changing stories. LWCC Kingdom Academy students truly enjoyed VIP seating as they witnessed orphaned, abandoned children lead with artistic musical gifting, declaring their identity in Christ! The next morning, the students of the LWCC Kingdom Academy experienced a cultural exchange when they enjoyed breakfast and held Morning Devotions together with the Watoto Children’s Choir, a time they will never forget. It was truly a foreign cultural WOW-toto experience!

St. Mary Catholic Valentine's 50 Plus Luncheon

St. Mary Catholic 8th grade classes hosted another incredible St. Valentine's Day Luncheon for their 50 Plus Guests! Dining included homemade pizzas, specialty salads, and desserts. Special thanks to Chef KK Ollis for teaching St. Mary students how to make the pizza! The afternoon also included fantastic entertainment from students, door prizes, and games! Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

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St. Pius X Book Parade

The St. Pius X Media Center hosted a Book Parade in conjunction with their annual Book Fair. Students in grades K-2, chose a book to read from the library and prepared an artistic representation of their book for the parade. The parade wound through campus ending up at the Grandparents' Day luncheon.

Mayor Visits St. Dominic 5th Graders

Saint Dominic Catholic School welcomed Mobile Mayor, Mr. Sandy Stimpson, to our campus to visit with St. Dominic Fifth Grade students. He discussed several topics and answered questions about what he does as Mayor of our city. He spoke about listening and looking for God's messages in life and to always try to do what God is calling us to do. Thank you Mayor Stimpson for your visit and your words of encouragement! Pictured are St. Dominic Fifth Grade students with Mayor Stimpson and teachers, Mrs. Patricia Spafford and Ms. Morgan Mohler.

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St. Mary Catholic European Learning and Treats!

Coordinated by St. Mary Middle School Social Studies Teacher, Mr. Joe Moody, St. Mary Catholic Middle School Students enjoyed their very tasty history project this month as each brought in a treat to share representing a European Country. Bon Appetit!

MGM High School Presents Check to Fallen Officer’s Wife

Like many residents in the Mobile area, students at Mary G. Montgomery High School were saddened by the death of Mobile police officer Sean Tuder. They decided to show their support by raising money through an out-of-uniform day and donating the proceeds to Tuder’s wife, Krissy. The students gave Mrs. Tuder a check for $2,000, thanking her for her husband’s service during an “MGM Backs the Blue” presentation last month. Mrs. Tuder was greeted by a line of students holding signs honoring her husband, and music from the Mary G. Montgomery band. Teacher Laurin Tew, whose class organized the fundraiser; Principal Marlon Firle; MCPSS Superintendent Chresal Threadgill; Mobile County Board of School Commissioners member Douglas Harwell; and several students spoke at the presentation. Afterward, students released balloons in memory of Tuder while the school choir sang “Amazing Grace.” “This is a sad moment and gun violence is already enough in the world,” said MGM student Marley Marshall. “Just to see someone gone, quick, is very sad, and we would just always want to be there for his wife and their family.”

Vocations Day at St. Dominic Catholic School

St. Dominic Catholic School students recently participated in their 11th Annual Vocations Day. Mrs. Debora Castelin, art teacher, is the organizer for this faithfilled day. Children in all grade levels visit to see various art projects and hear guest speakers. Students are encouraged to reflect on the plans that God may have for their lives. St. Dominic Second Grade students are pictured with Father Chris Boutin, St. Dominic Parochial Vicar, and Father Victor Ingalls, Archdiocese of Mobile Vocations Director. 35

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A Page in a Book The Greatness of Grandfathers As one of the eldest family members in a child’s life, grandfathers have often been the keepers of the lore, the blazers of trails and the anchors of the tribe as it expands. Grandfathers (and grandmothers) also enjoy a sweet spot in their grandkids’ lives. While they retain authority as senior family members, their generational remove allows them to also be generous, patient and forgiving in spaces that parents can’t always be. While every child’s experience with their grandfathers is unique to them, the best of relationships nurture both and build memories that will last for their lifetimes. The following books celebrate the richness that grandfathers bring into the lives of the little ones who make their titles official.

The Remember Balloons

by Jessie Oliveros, Illustrated by Dana Wulfekotte (Simon & Schuster) Everyone in this boy’s family has balloons, each lofty orb encompassing their special memories. While the boy has more balloons that his baby brother (and fewer than his parents), his grandfather has the most of all. Grandfather’s many experiences in his long life fill his balloons with memories of his wedding, adventures with his childhood pet, favorite family tales and more. The boy and his grandfather even share some balloons, memories they have in common of their special times together. But as old age stakes its claim, the boy sees some of his grandfather’s balloons floating away. Will the grandson be able to save them in time? Powerful and moving in its metaphor, this title is a lovingly rendered guide for children who may experience a grandparent’s memory loss or cognitive changes.

The Greatest Adventure

by Tony Piedra (Arthur A. Levine / Scholastic) Eliot’s imagination lets him transform his inner city landscape into a vista for endless adventures as he navigates high seas and tracks wild beast around every corner. But his adventures always end when the real world intrudes. When his grandfather, captain of his own ship,comes to visit, Eliot is captivated by his tales of journeys through jungle rivers and dark seas. Hoping to join his grandfather on his real boat, the boy’s journey with the captain leads to a boat that’s no longer seaworthy. Eliot discovers that his own powers of imagination may hold the key to giving them both the adventure of a lifetime. Celebrating reciprocated love and living between generations, The Greatest Adventure is a sweet testament to the exchange of positive power between grandparents and grandchildren.

Quiet

by Tomie dePaola (Simon & Schuster) “Everything is in such a hurry”, remarks the old man as he joins his grandchildren on a nature walk. The busy bees buzz, the restless leaves flutter, and the birds swoop from the trees as the family walks together. Traveling down the path, their grandfather points out all the ways that the woods are full of activity and movement until they come to a bench. Suggesting that they take a seat and just be still and quiet together, the grandfather observes that the flora and fauna around them also pause and rest for a time. Using natural elements and simple text to subtly illustrate the divergent trajectories between the blooming energy of youth and the settling pace of age, Quiet gently celebrates the natural velocity of young and old alike. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Life Insurance Q. My husband and I are 24, we’re debtfree, and we’re just a few weeks of saving away from having a fully-funded emergency fund. Each of us has a 401(k) plan at work, and right now we’re concentrating on life insurance purchases. You always recommend term insurance, but how long should the coverage last? A. Congratulations on being super smart with your money! It sounds like you two are starting out on the right foot. Generally, I recommend 15- or 20year level term policies—unless you have children. Since you didn’t mention any kids, I can only assume they’re not in the picture at this point. However, if you two decide to grow your family in the future, I’d advise converting those to 30-year term policies. You’ll want the insurance there to protect everyone in the family, until the kids are grown and out on their own. In the

years after, continued saving and wealth building will lead you to a point where you’re both self-insured.

Insurance and Savings Q. I just realized our insurance has a

health savings account (HSA) option. We’ve considered dropping this insurance soon and going to a cheaper Christian medical sharing program. We’ve got about $19,000 in debt between credit cards and a car payment, and we’re on Baby Step 2 of your plan. Our thought was to fund the HSA for a period of time as a means of saving, cancel that policy, then go over to a medical sharing program we found that costs $600 a month less. After that, we would start paying down debt again. What do you think?

A. There are two components to an HSA, the insurance component and the savings component. You don’t have to participate in the savings component. The insurance component is simply a large deductible,

100 percent coverage after the deductible, cheaper-premium health insurance plan. If I were in Baby Step 2, I would not do the savings component. I would only do the insurance component, or I’d do the medical sharing program. I’m not sure why you’d need to jump back and forth it you’re going to permanently move to a medical sharing program. I get the idea of saving money, but what you’re talking about isn’t something I’d recommend for someone who’s in debt. I wouldn’t fund a savings account of several thousand dollars only for medical when you’re not even on Baby Step 3, which is saving an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses. That money needs to be used to pay off debt first. It’s not the end of the world if you don’t fund the HSA portion of your current insurance plan. If you went with a medical sharing program, and just saved up a large emergency fund, the only thing you’d really lose out on is the tax deduction associated with an HSA.

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Drink It Down. Put your daily allotment of water in a pitcher

My normal state is upbeat, optimistic and energetic. So if I am feeling out of sorts in any way, I know something is up. I am fortunate to be blessed with good health and a positive disposition. Unfortunately, over the years, I have also developed some minor health challenges that can rob me of my usual energy, motivation, and pleasure when I am not keeping close tabs on my daily attitude. If you are experiencing consistent low energy, it’s time to visit your doctor, who can run a series of tests to determine if you have a medical condition in need of treatment. But if you only feel occasionally out of steam or out of sorts, maybe it’s time to pay better attention to your energy tank. Is your tank typically half-full or even running on empty? No matter what the cause of your energy dips, the best way to banish the doldrums and bounce back with vigor is to pay attention to ways to increase your energy each day. So, the next time you feel wiped out, whether for an hour, a day or even a series of days. See if you can pump your energy back up by trying some of these simple yet helpful mood boosters:

on the counter and drink the pitcher down as the day goes along. You don’t have to sip your water slowly, and it’s easy to chug down and absorb if you keep it at room temperature. The Mayo Clinic recommends women drink nine cups or 2.2 liters per day.

Snooze Better. Keep the bedroom tidy. Block out any evening or morning window light with heavy drapes. Change your sheets weekly. Replace any bumpy or ragged pillows. Let Sunshine In. Open up those shades and blinds and

give the windows a quick wipe down for an immediate moodimprover. Sunshine boosts your happy hormone, serotonin, and increases white blood cell production, which helps boost your immune system.

Keep Blood Sugar Steady. Add more protein into your diet so you will stay energized longer. Try easy-to-incorporate sources like yogurt, cottage cheese, or eggs.

Up The Green Stuff. Try Odwalla Superfood juice. Add spinach or kale to your next smoothie. Put a couple of teaspoons of Vitamineral Green superfood powder into your daily juice. If you are vitamin/mineral-deficient, you will likely notice the difference immediately once you ingest more much-needed meanie-greenies.

Buy Some Boing. Bounce back more quickly from every-

thing with a pair of new sneakers and some cushy athletic socks. Put them to ample use by wearing them indoors and out.

Surround Smile. Hang images of smiling people you love everywhere. Put away any photos that bring you down. What other images or words bring you joy? Get them out and up.

Move That Booty. Try aerobic exercise three times a week for thirty minutes, five times a week for twenty minutes, or just get out for a daily walk. Put on your workout clothes first thing after you get up, to remind yourself to make exercise a daily priority.

Share The Bouquet Bounty. Purchase a large bunch of flowers and then break the blooms up into smaller vases around

SUMMER INTENSIVE

BALLET POINTE MODERN JAZZ CONTEMPORARY & MORE!

Ages 9 & up June 3 – 21 July 15 – 26

LET’S DANCE CAMP

Ages 6 – 8 LITTLE BALLERINA CAMP

Ages 3 – 5 www.mobileballet.org

101 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, Alabama, 251-861-2141

(call for pricing and dates)

Call (251) 342-2241 39

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the house. Combine a few flowers with twigs and blooms in season by the front door.

Freshen Up. Add a mint or eucalyptus

Brighten Up. Dispel shadowy corners by changing all the burned out bulbs in the house. Then restock your back-up supply, so you will be ready for next time.

Still Tired? Try an easy-to-absorb iron supplement daily for one week. Take it with a citrusy beverage. Notice an improvement? You just might need more iron on an ongoing or cyclical basis. Ask your doctor about a blood test to find out where you stand.

Wash Away The Dust.

Boost Your Energy On The Go

body and foot scrub to your shower gel collection. Either one will wake you right up.

Launder the curtains, the blankets, and the pet beds. This keeps the air cleaner and keeps seasonal allergies at bay, as well.

Here are some items to keep in your purse or car that will keep your energy running high all day no matter what you have on your to-do list: • Small packets of trail mix • Non-sugary granola bars • A water bottle that fits in your car’s beverage holder • A couple of individually wrapped Yerba Maté tea bags • Minty gum or breath fresheners • Photos in your wallet of your most beloved people • Lip-gloss in your favorite color • Roll-on perfume to dab on your wrist • Divinely scented hand cream MBP

Chew Longer. Put a bowl of fresh fruit next to the couch near

the TV. Continually rotate a variety of crudités in the fridge. When you need to crunch, choose healthy junk food like popcorn or baked chips.

Spritz Things Up. Place some lemon or orange air fresheners around the house, especially in the kitchen, bathrooms, and pet rooms.

Bring On The Berries. Keep a variety of energizing berries in the house year round, if you can. Add their intense color to at least two meals a day.

Author, journalist, and writing coach Christina Katz maintains a fairly bouncy attitude but still requires an occasional energy tune-up.

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How Girls Are Seeking (and Subverting) Approval Online

“no-filter” trend is prompting girls to share their true selves and accept (and even challenge) whatever feedback they receive. Under hashtags such as “uglyselfie,” and “nomakeup” girls post pics of their unadorned selves, funny faces, unretouched images, and “epic fails” (attempts at perfect selfies that went wrong). Given that adolescents are naturally eager for peer validation -- precisely when they begin to use social tools that provide it -it’s encouraging to see kids having fun with the notion of perfection. As a matter of fact, one of the Common Sense study’s most welcome findings is that social media has the potential to combat unrealistic appearance ideals and stereotypes. And, after all, kids use social media to be, well, social, and constant rejection and pressure is no fun at all. It makes you realize just how powerful social media tools can be. While they foster relationships and engagement -- and can even bolster self-esteem -- they can be both constructive and destructive. That’s why you can’t leave it all up to kids to find their way. Whether your kids are just getting into social media or are seasoned posters, it’s critical to help guide them to use Snapchat, Instagram, and other networking apps for fun and connection and not as fuel for self-doubt.

It’s not a law that you have to post a selfie before, during, and after every activity. But for kids, it’s pretty much mandatory. The resulting likes, thumbs-ups, and other ratings all get tallied, both in the stark arithmetic of the Internet and in kids’ own minds. For some -- especially girls -- what starts as a fun way to document and share experiences can turn into an obsession about approval that can wreak havoc on self-image. That kids have been comparing themselves to popular images in traditional media -- and coming up short -- is a well-researched phenomenon. But new studies are just beginning to determine the effects of social media -- which is arguably more immediate and intimate -- on the way kids view themselves. A Common Sense survey called “Children, Teens, Media, and Body Image” found that many teens who are active online fret about how they’re perceived, and that girls are particularly vulnerable: * 35 percent are worried about people tagging them in unattractive photos. * 27 percent feel stressed about how they look in posted photos. * 22 percent felt bad about themselves if their photos were ignored.

What You Can Do

Talk about the pictures they post. Experimenting with identity is natural, and it’s very common for kids to adopt provocative stances in cell phone pictures, on their social network pages, and in YouTube videos. But are they doing it only because they think others expect it of them? What pose would they strike if they could do anything they wanted? Ask how feedback makes them feel. Are they stressed out by others’ comments and feedback? Does it make them feel better to be “liked?” Why is external approval important? How do negative comments make them feel? Help them develop a healthy self-image. Body image is developed early in childhood, and the family environment is very influential on how kids view themselves. Emphasize what the body can do instead of what it looks like. Also, be careful of criticizing your own looks and weight. Rely on role models. Positive role models have an enormous effect on kids. Cultivate relationships with women your daughter can look up to. Also, point out celebrities and other famous folks who challenge stereotypes about size and beauty and seem comfortable in their own skins. Help them stop the cycle. Urge them to post constructive comments that support their friends for who they are, not what they look like.

How Kids Get Feedback

You probably know about popular apps such as Instagram and Snapchat. But the specific ways kids use these tools to get -and give -- feedback can be troubling. Here are a few examples: Instagram. The number of followers, likes, and emojis kids can collect gets competitive, with users often begging for them. Instagram “beauty pageants” and other photo-comparison activities crop up, with losers earning a big red X on their pics. Snapchat. Numerical scores display the total number of sent and received chats. You can view your friends’ scores to keep tabs on who’s racking up the most views. Lipsi. This anonymous question-and-answer app lets kids find out what others think of them. “Am I pretty or ugly?” YouTube videos. Kids -- mostly girls -post videos of themselves asking if other users think they’re pretty or ugly. These videos are typically public, allowing anyone -- from kids at school to random strangers -- to post a comment.

The Good News

Although approval-seeking and self-doubt continue to plague girls both privately and publicly, there are signs of fatigue. The 41

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Whether you want them to experience day or overnight camp, sports or fine arts, our listing has details on these and many more. It’s time to get your campers ready for summer fun!

2019

Guide

Art Camps Alabama Contemporary Art Center

Dance/Gymnastics/ Cheer

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Broadway South Dance

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

7906 Westside Park Drive, Mobile, AL 36695 Broadway South Dance provides quality dance instruction in the West Mobile area for ages 2-adult. Be sure to check us out on the web at www. broadwaysouthdance.com to find out why families choose Broadway South Dance for their dance needs.

301 Conti Street, Mobile, AL 36602 Let your child explore the world of contemporary art through Alabama Contemporary Art Center’s Summer Camps! Your child will explore a range of mediums including painting, drawing, papier mâché, photography, and more.

Mobile Museum of Art - ArtBlast

4850 Museum Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 Art Blast Summer Camp at Mobile Museum of Art offers weekly art camps from 8am-5pm for ages 4-18 beginning June 10-July 26, 2019. There is truly something for everyone, with pottery, painting, printmaking, drawing and more. Call Kim Wood at 251-208-5212 or kwood@MobileMuseumofArt.com for more information or to sign up.

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Cheer Force One ad on page 43

8700 Zeigler Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 Please visit our website or follow us on Facebook/ Instagram (@cheerforceone) for the latest details about summer camps and clinics.

251-208-5212 kwood@MobileMuseumofArt.com www.mobilemuseumofart.com/learn

251-634-0203 info@cheerforceone.com www.cheerforceone.com

Mobile Parks & Rec Community

Christ United Methodist Church Cheer Camp

Camps offering arts, crafts, sewing and much more. 251-208-1617 www.cityofmobile.org/parks/pdf/current_program.pdf

Paint Party Studios

15 Upham Street, Mobile, AL 36607 Pop-up Kids Summer Special Events and Classes in our studio will be posted on our Facebook page at facebook.com/paintpartystudios/ for ages 6+. We host birthday parties, VBS field trips, and more. 251-343-2423 info@paintpartystudios.com www.paintpartystudios.com

Round But Square Studios

3304 Old Shell Road Suite C, Mobile, AL 36608 Art Camps Galore! June 10th-13th, 17th -20th, 24th -27th, July 8th-11th, 15th - 18th, 22nd - 25th and 29th - August 1. Morning camp is 9:30 to 12:00. Afternoon camp is 1:00 - 3:30. Ages and themes listed on our website. 251-591-3425 roundbutsquarestudios@gmail.com www.roundbutsquarestudios.com

Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

ad on Inside Front Cover

6101 Grelot Road, Mobile, AL 36609 See more information under Sports Camps. 251-706-3326 www.christunitedcsports.com

Debbie’s School of Dance ad on page 28

6429 Hillcrest Park Court, Mobile, AL 36695 Join Debbie’s School of Dance for our spectacular summer camps, perfect for children ages 2 and up! Dates: June 11-27. We offer fun, creative camps that will keep your child active and entertained like Princess Camp for 2-3 year olds from 5:45- 6:30pm, Ballet Adventure Camp from 4 - 5 year olds from 5:45 - 6:45pm, and JoJo Hip Hop Camp for ages 6 and up from 6:30 - 7:30pm. 251-633-9559 www.debbiesdance.com

Mobile Ballet ad on page 39

4351 Downtowner Loop North, Mobile, AL 36609 Summer is an excellent time to begin ballet studies or to enhance your ballet skills! Let’s Dance Camp ($125/week) Ballet, Jazz & introduction to Tap (Ages 6 – 8) June 17 – 20 and July 15 – 18. Little Ballerina Camp ($125/week) Ballet Creative Movement (Ages 3 – 5) June 24 – 27 and July 8 – 11. Summer Intensive with Guest Teachers (Ages 9 & up, call for pricing) Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Jazz, Contemporary, Modern, Conditioning & more! Final performance June 21 at Davidson High School. June 3 – 21 1,2 & 3 week options available .Extended Summer Intensive (call for pricing) July 15 – 26, 1 & 2 week options available. 251-342-2241 info@mobileballet.org www.mobileballet.org

Planet Gymnastics ad on page 55

900 Schillinger Road South, Mobile, AL 36695 Camps throughout the school holidays, No registration fees, Unbelievable rates, 20% sibling discounts, Great hours: 7.30am-5.30pm, Half day, daily, and weekly rates, Walk-ins welcome. Ages 3-14. 251-650-0699 PlanetGymnasticsAL@comcast.net www.planetgymnastics.com

Auburn Tigers Girls Gymnastics Camp

703 West Samford Avenue, Auburn, AL 36849 Auburn Gymnastics Camps in Alabama offer an opportunity for gymnasts to receive valuable instruction on the fundamentals of gymnastics. 334-844-5047 AUgymcamp@auburn.edu www.abcsportscamps.com/autigers

Classical Ballet of Mobile

4621 Spring Hill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608 Join us for a fun-filled summer! Open to the public! 6/3 - 6/6 Classical Ballet Camps K4 - 4th Grade; Master Classes Ages 10 - 11 and 12+: 6/18 - 6/20 Katherine Thompson Montalvo Master Class Workshop, 6/24 - 6/26 Laura Catherine Hilley Master Class Workshop, Open ballet classes every Tuesday and Thursday Ages 11+ 7/9 - 7/25. For more details and to sign up, follow our link: https:// www.classicalballetmobile.org/new-events. Like us on Facebook or Instagram: @classicalballetmobile 251-410-4477 www.classicalballetmobile.org

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Cottage Hill Gymnastics Center

1711 Hillcrest Rd, Mobile, AL 36695 Gymnastics, Tumbling and Trampoline 251-666-0559; 251 208-1631 www.cityofmobile.org/parks

Danze101 Summer Camp

Danze 101 Studio of Dance, 3164 South Midtown Park Drive, Mobile, AL 36606 Studio of Dance Summer Camp will be held June 3-July 26, 2019 with 8:00am-3:00pm regular hours (7:00am-4:00pm extended hours). Cost: $65.00 per week 8:00am-3:00pm, $75.00 per week 7am-4pm. 251-643-2357 www.danze101studioofdance.com/ summer-programs

Gale’s Studio of Dance

Piccadilly Square / Same Shopping Center as Buffalo Wild Wings, 6345 Airport Blvd. Suite F, Mobile, AL 36608 Summer camps & classes begin June 11th. Most students attend classes one day a week. Choose: “Tip Toes & Tumbling” for Tots on Tuesday or Thursdays, “Enchanted Princess Camp” (ages 3-5) on Tuesdays, “Pop Star Camp” (ages 6 & up) on Tuesdays, “Teens & Tweens Camp” (ages 10 & up) on Wednesdays, & “Summer Intensive” Advanced classes (13 & up) on Thursdays. MANY MORE summer day and night dance classes are available for ages 2 & up! Summer classes offered: Ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, tumbling, lyrical, hip hop and cheerleading. Receive a FREE summer camp t-shirt IF registered by May 24, 2019. Online registration available now! 251-343-9544 www.galesstudioofdance.com

LSU Gymnastics Camp

Baton Rouge, LA 70803 LSU Gymnastics Camps: Session 1 (High Performance) June 22-24, 2019 and Session 2 (All Skills) June 28-30, 2019 225-766-7125 flyingtigergymnasticscamp@gmail.com www.lsugymnasticscamps.com

Robinson’s School of Dance

421 Highway 43 North, Saraland, AL 36571 Summer Intensive Classes. Registration June 1st 1012 and June 3rd 4-6pm. Classes Start Tuesday, June 4th and will run for 4 weeks the entire month of June! Offering: Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical, Acrobatics, Baton and Hip Hop! Ages 2 & Up! Technique training camp with Sonnie Sloan Shelton from New York - July 29-August 1st 9:00am-12:00pm. $75.00 Check us out on Facebook! 48 years of dancing! 251-675-5915 www.Robinsonsschoolofdance.com

Robinson’s School of Dance: Bayou Studio

8665 Four Mile Rd, Irvington, AL 36544 Summer Dance Intensive. Registration is July 8th from 5-7 and classes are Tuesdays and Thursdays in July! 251-455-1866 robinsonsbayoustudio@gmail.com

Sheffield School of Dance

4570 Hermitage Road/1901 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36619; 36608 Please stay tuned to our Facebook & Instagram for our upcoming Sheffield Summer Series! 251-479-3926; 251-661-4893 info@sheffielddance.net www.sheffielddance.com

University of Alabama - Gymnastics Camps

323 Paul West Bryant Drive, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 University of Alabama Gymnastics Camps are designed to maximize each camper’s experience through technical training in a challenging and fun atmosphere. Overnight Camp is for ages 9 years and up. Day Camp is for ages 7 years and up. Bamagymcamp@ia.ua.edu www.alabamagymnasticscamp.com

228-239-2422 maccrossanirishdance@yahoo.com www. azaleacityarts.com

Christ United Methodist Church Middle School Mission

Mobile Bay Dance Academy Magical Adventures Dance Camp

St. Mary School, 107 N Lafayette St, Mobile, AL 36604 Magical Adventure’s Dance Camp - Join us for Magical Adventure’s Dance Camp with a different theme for each day. July 15-19. Cost - $125. 251-455-3044 www.mobilebaydanceacademy.com

Mrs. Lisa’s Gym and Cheer

144 East I-65 Service Road N, Mobile, AL 36607 Mrs. Lisa’s offers Recreational tumbling classes , Competitive Cheer Teams for ages 3-18 , School Cheer Teams Tumbling, Private Lessons , & Choreography. 251-471-9708 mrslisasalabamajags@comcast.net Find us on Facebook

Ms. Daphne’s Cheernastics

102 Baker Road, Satsuma, AL 36572 For current info, visit our Facebook Page: Ms. Daphne’s CheerNastics

Nasser Gymnastics

251-222-3403

Day Camps

63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606 Call about Dance Summer Camp!

251-599-2205 msdaphnescheernastics@yahoo.com www.msdaphnescheernastics.com

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168 Noel Street, Mobile, AL 36607 Precision Dance Academy will again host an exciting summer filled with camps and intensives for both boys and girls of all ages. Please like us on Facebook for updates and more camp information.

Maccrossan School of Irish Dance Summer Dance Camps

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Precision Dance

3055 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36607 One of the best Camps in town! Boys and Girls, ages 3+. Very flexible schedule: half day, daily, weekly rates, and drop-offs available. Interactive games, energetic sports, learn gymnastics, and meet new friends! 251-479-9311 nassergym@yahoo.com www.nassergym.net

Week

ad on Inside Front Cover

6101 Grelot Road, Mobile, AL 36609 Spend a week serving and giving back to our Mobile community. We will serve alongside many great organizations, such as Feeding the Gulf Coast, Ronald McDonald House, Open Doors, Communities of Transformation, and many more. Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and fun will be provided each day. 7:00am-6:00pm (upcoming 6th-8th grade) July 8-11.For more information and to register, visit christunitedstudents.com/register. Deadline to register: June 26th. 251-706-3326 www.christunitedstudents.com/register

Christ United Methodist Church SIFAT-Servants in Faith &

Technology

ad on Inside Front Cover

6101 Grelot Road, Mobile, AL 36609 SIFAT is a summer camp with a missions focus. Students have the chance to learn about agriculture, life in third-world nations, and technology that improves the quality of life for people around the world. Don’t miss an incredible week of fun, service, and worship! For more information and to register go to christumcyouth.com/register. July 21-26 for 8th-12th grade. Deadline to register is June 30. 251-706-3326 www.christumcyouth.com/register

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Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm. Ages: Incoming 1st-8th graders. 2019 dates, rates and more information are on our website.

2019

251-460-7268 www.southalabama.edu/summercamps

Beck’s Day Care Summer Camp

1248 Anchor D, Mobile, AL 36693 Summer Camp offered for children who have completed K5 though 12 years old. Children take daily field trips - skating, bowling , movies, library, cottage hill park each week. Other special activities are also offered each month.

Guide

251-661-4254 Find us on Facebook

Dauphin Island Sea Lab Summer Day Camps ad on page 39

101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Oceans Alive! June 21, July 19 or July 26, 2019. This hands-on adventure from 1:00pm - 4:30pm introduces children ages 5 - 8 years to Alabama’s ocean; BIO Blitz June 14, July 26 or July 31, 2019. This Day-long camp, from 10:00am - 4:00pm, turns campers ages 8 - 10 years into Barrier Island Observers; Survivor: Dauphin Island June 7, June 14, July 5 or July 30, 2019. Campers, ages 10 - 13 years, will learn about Alabama’s fishes, which ones are edible, how to toss a cast net, how to bait a crab trap, how to drag a seine and how to bring in the catch of the day while pier fishing. From 10:00am - 4:00pm. Registration and camp specifics are available online. 251-861-2141 (ext. 7515) DHPsummer@disl.org www.disl.org

Dauphin Way Baptist Summer Camp ad on page 55

3661 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36608 Dauphin Way Baptist Summer Camp hours are 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for children who have completed 5K thru 5th grade. Camp begins May 2. Registration fee is $75 per child with a daily fee of $28 which includes lunch. Weekly activities include swimming, skating, arts and crafts, music and sports, games, numerous other creative activities & special field trips each week. Space is limited. 251-344-0909 Facebook -Dauphin Way Baptist Child Development Center

GulfQuest ad on page 53

155 Water Street, Mobile, AL 36602 June 10-14, June 24-28 and July 8-12, 2019. Spring Break Academy is April 15-19, 2019 and is a per day program. Summer camps are week-long sessions. 251-436-8901 www.gulfquest.org

University of South Alabama Summer Recreation Camp ad on page 20

51 Stadium Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36688 Camps focus on recreational and physical activities such as swimming, rock wall climbing, ping-pong, outdoor games, sports, and more. Lunch included. Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

Boys and Girls Clubs of South Alabama

4 Locations: Cody Rd. Branch - 35 Cody Road South, 251-343-4320, Kiwanis Branch - 712 Rice Street, 251-478-7811, Semmes Branch - 3810 Wulff Road East, 251-645-9027, Sonny Callahan Branch 6585 Carol Plantation Road, 251-653-1188 Summer Enrichment programs are awesome! Kids will enjoy exciting summer activities that include Summer Brain Gain, field trips, sports, swimming, arts and crafts will also learning the importance of a health lifestyle. 251-432-1235 bcarlisle@bgcsouthal.org boy.girl@bgcsouthal.org www.bgcsouthal.org

Boys Scouts of America Cub Scout Day -C.S.I. Cub Scout Investigation

The Grounds, 1035 Cody Rd N, Mobile, AL 36608 The Mobile Area Council, Boy Scouts of America will be holding its annual Cub Scout Summer Day Camp. Please visit website for summer camp info. 251-476-4600 www.bsamac.org

Bright Beginnings Learning Center Providence

6803 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 Now enrolling for Summer Camp! Campers will will enjoy field trips and more. Camp days and hours are Monday - Friday, 6:00am - 6:00pm. Accepting enrollment for children ages 5 - 12 and Infant - K4.

251-776-5540 bblc_providence@yahoo.com www.bright-beginnings-learning-center-at-providence-llc. business.site/

Camp Chandler Tonsmeire

2701 Shelton Beach Road, Mobile, AL 36618 Camp Chandler Tonsmeire is an outdoor education program focused on character and leadership development and curbing summer learning loss. Offering S.T.E.M. activities in a tradition fun day camp programming. Camp Chandler Tonsmeire is a place where kids can be kids and grow. Campers return home with high esteem and confidence gained as a result of mastering new skills overcoming challenges and making new friends. Camp Dates, Weekly sessions June 3-7, June 10-14, June 17-21, June 24-28 July 8-12, July 15-19, Ages 6-15 One time registration fee of $55.00 and weekly fee of $65.00 251-432-1235 ghall@bgcsouthal.org Find us on Facebook!

bgcsouthal.org

City of Mobile Summer Adventure Camp

Mobile, AL City of Mobile’s Parks and Recreation Special Activities Summer Adventure Camp. Registration

begins in April. Register early to secure your child’s spot at the Main Office of Parks and Recreation at 48 North Sage Avenue. 251-208-1651; 251- 208-1668 www.cityofmobile.org/ parks/special_activities.php

Dayspring Baptist Summer Day Camp

2200 Cody Road South, Mobile, AL 36695 Exciting activities await those who attend Dayspring Day Camp! Each week, campers will swim, skate, go on field trips, and much more. Hours: 6:45am6:00pm, Ages: K5 through 6th Grade. 251-633-0250 www.dayspring.church/summer-daycamp

Evangel Christian School Summer Day Camp

1277 Jubilee Drive, Saraland, AL 36571 Summer Day Camp. Time: 6:30am-6:00pm daily M-F. Ages 4-Entering 6th Grade. Weekly and Daily. Rates Available. Many activities available including field trips for students entering 2nd grade6th grade. Dates: June 3 - July 26. 251-675-4619 evangel@folc.tv www.folc.tv

Gather Kids Place

7856 Westside Park Drive Suite F, Mobile, AL 36695 Join at Gather Kids Place this summer for a unique experience. We’ll be offering a Parent & Tot Camp for ages 1-3 and a Summer Day Camp for children ages 3-8. Children will engage in songs, movement, sensory centers, storytimes, crafts, games & learning through play! Coming in July. Details such as themes and dates will be coming soon, follow us on facebook for more info! #gatherkidsplace

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Government Street Baptist

3401 Government Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36693 Our Summer Camp will begin the day after Memorial Day on May 28 - August 2 and will be open from 6:00 AM- 6:00 PM. We will be accepting children who have completed K4-5th grade. Please visit our website for additional camp information such as field trips, schedules, and themes. 251-660-7444 deboraheddie@gsbc.onmicrosoft.com www.governmenstreetcdc.org

Jr. Police Summer Camp

Mobile Police Academy, 1251 Virginia Street, Mobile, AL 36604 You and your friends can step into the role of a Mobile Police Officer. A heavy responsibility, you’ll spend the week finding bad guys, solving crimes as a leading detective, and playing hard while learning speciality skills. July 8-12 for ages 9-12. Cost - $80. 251-208-1924 www.mobilepd.org/jrpolicecamp

Life Church CDC Summer Camp

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251-633-2679 www.lifechurchcdc.com

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8701 Zeigler Boulevard , Mobile, AL 36608 Wild Encounters!” - May 28, 2019 - August 9, 2019. Monday - Friday 6 AM to 6 PM. Field trips, arts and crafts, water slides, Praise and Worship, sno cones and more!

North Mobile Christian School Summer Day Camp

1255 Industrial Parkway, Saraland, AL 36571 NMCS Summer Day Camp begins June 3, 2019, and is for students K2-8th grade. We have exciting age-appropriate activities (both on-campus and off-campus) each week for those who attend day camp. Registration is $40 per child (registration includes a T-shirt to be worn on field trips). Tuition is $25 a day, which includes lunch and snacks. 251-679-3279 kfinch@northmobilechristian.org www.northmobilechristian.org

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Semmes First Baptist CDC Summer Day Camp

4070 Wulff Road East, Semmes, AL 36575 Summer Camp is FULL of FUN with our Make Something Monday, Take a trip Tuesdays & Thursday, Wet and Wild Wednesdays, and Fun and Fresh Fridays. 2019 registration opens in March.

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St. Dominic Catholic School

YMCA of South Alabama

4160 Burma Road, Mobile, AL 36693 Come join the fun! Camp Little Eagles – PK2-PK4, On-campus camp with water days, theme days, and fun crafts. Camp Eagles - K-8th, Includes field trips three days a week, Daily on campus activities including a color run, become a chef for the day, and water days. Dates/Hours – 5/28/19-9/8/19, 7:00am-5:30pm. 251-661-5226 sbarber@stdominicmobile.org www.StDominicMobile.org

St. Luke’s Episcopal School Camp Wildcat

3975 Japonica Lane , Mobile, AL 36693 Our Nappie winning camp is open to the public for rising K3 students to rising 6th graders from 7:30-5:30. Camp starts May 28 and ends August 2. Please visit our website stlukesmobile.com and our facebook page “Camp Wildcat - St. Luke’s Episcopal School.” 251-666-2991 campwildcat@stlukesmobile.com www.stlukesmobile.com

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West Mobile Baptist CDC Summer Camp

251-649-2712 www.semmesfirstbaptistcdc.com

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251-633-3288 www.watermelonpatchkids.com

7501 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 West Mobile Baptist CDC Summer Camp is for children ages 6-11 and is open from 6:00am – 6:00pm.

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old. Hours will be Monday - Friday, 8:30 am to 12:30pm. Extended hours are also offered.

St. Pius X Summer Camp

217 South Sage, Mobile, AL 36606 Summer Camp is provided on the West Campus of St. Pius X during the summer vacation. Students will participate in arts and crafts, sports, water days, and take various field trips throughout the summer. 251-471-2301

The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast

28788 North Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526 2019 Exceptional Foundation Gulf Coast’s Summer Program dates are June 3rd - July 25th from 7:50am-6:00pm for ages 10 and up.

251-625-8955 Jennifer.flad@exceptionalfoundationgc. org www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org

The Watermelon Patch

6417 Hillcrest Park Court, Mobile, AL 36695 At The Watermelon Patch we love summer and we do Summer Camp right! Ages -walkers to 6 years

251-639-6868 www.wemochurch.org

Hearin-Chandler Family YMCA, North Mobile Family YMCA, Bounds Family YMCA, Snook Family YMCA, All-Day Themed Summer Day Camp (Ages 5-14). The Y’s summer day camp is packed with themed activities, crafts and games, water fun, sports of all sorts, field trips, and much more! Sign up for your child’s favorite “Theme Week”, or join us for all 10 weeks of fabulous fun! 251-344-4856 www.ysal.org

4851 Museum Dr, Mobile, AL 36608 Playhouse Summer Theatre Camps will be the weeks of June 3 and 10th, Monday through Friday 9:00am-12:00pm for ages 5-11. We will have 3 teachers and will study acting, dance, musical theater, art, and puppetry. $150 for one session $270 for both.

Azalea City Center for the Arts - Summer Camps 63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606 Drama Camp at University of South Alabama -Are you ready for two weeks of fun? Join us for full-blown Drama Camp (around since 2002) -- We will put on a full-length show, play games, go outdoors, and paint sets! Cost of $260 includes cast party, t-shirt, DVD, costumes, script, and more! 9:00 – 1:00, Grades 3 & up. Session 1- June 3 - June 14, Session 2 - June 17 – 28, Session 3 - July 1 - 12, * Special Musical Theater intensive July 15 - 19 from 9 am to 5 pm, * Special Rising Stars session for older campers grades 8 & up June 10 - June 21 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. $190. Glee Camp - June 24 July 5 - Grades 3 & up - a chance to really shine in a musical revue! Taught by our professional voice teachers it is loaded with singing, dancing, and fun! Drama Camp Junior - For our youngest actors & actresses, we have one-week sessions that produce a daily skit or performance. Campers participate in group games, costume craziness, bringing books to life, and stage fun! Cost $130 includes t-shirt, costumes, snacks, and performances. 9:00 – 1:00 Grades PK - 2. $130/week. Themes include Cinderella, Lion King, Frozen, Junie B Jones, and more! Extended Care cost is $50 extra per week. Sibling and multiple camp discounts available. Whole summer price from June 3 - August 9 (10 weeks) 7 am - 6 pm - $1400 includes all of the fun drama camp activities listed above! 251-510-1808 dramacamp@mindspring.com www.azaleacityarts.com

251-307-5056 office@thepactmobile.com www.thepactmobile.com

Playhouse in the Park

Drama/Theater

ad on page 11

3995 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile, AL 36609 Summer Theatre Camp! Four Fun Filled Sessions! Each camp puts on a FULL LENGTH musical! Session 1: Winnie The Pooh KIDS (rising K-5th grades) June 3-14, Session 2: Jungle Book Kids (rising 2-7 grades) June 17-28 Session 3: James & The Giant Peach Jr. (rising 2-12 graders) July 1-12 (off the 4th), Session 4: Mary Poppins Jr. (rising 3-12 grades) July 15-26. All Camps held at The PACT every day but the last Friday of camp will be held at St. Luke’s Upper School Theater. Times: Monday - Friday 8:00am-3:00pm, Last Friday of Camp 8:00am-7:00pm. Showtime Friday Night: 7:00pm. (Mary Poppins Camp will have a 2:00pm show on Saturday, July 27th). For more information email office@thepactmobile.com or visit our website.

251-602-0630 playhouseintheparkmobileal@gmail. com www.playhouseinthepark.org

Educational and Miscellaneous Blue Bird Therapy Handwriting Heroes Camp ad on page 22

6157 Airport Blvd, Suite 205, Mobile, AL 36608 Using multi-sensory play to develop the skills to improve handwriting and social skills! June 17-21 for ages 4 to 8. Visit our website for more information. 251-287-0378 info@bluebirdtherapy.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

BlueBird Therapy Building Buddies Camp ad on page 22

6157 Airport Blvd, Suite 205, Mobile, AL 36608 Building things from legos to bird houses...all while developing social skills! June 3-7 for ages 5 to 11. Visit our website for more information. 251-287-0378 info@bluebirdtherapy.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Dauphin Island Sea Lab ad on page 39

101 Bienville Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36528 See listing under Overnight Camps for details. 251-861-2141 (ext. 7515) www.disl.org

Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center ad on page 53

65 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602 Experience the most amazing, science-based summer camps in Mobile! Summer camps at the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center are a great way to keep budding young minds engaged all summer long. Our camps are extensive in subject matter and have themes like Aribus Flight Academy, 3D Printing, Junior Med Camp, Space Cadets, Astro

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descriptions and registration instructions.

251-441-2152 AIMS@ ASMS.NET www.asms.net

2019

American Autism & Rehabilitation Center

8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 The American Autism and Rehabilitation Center will offer language development, social skills, handwriting and bike riding camps this summer from June 3 - July 26, 2019. Please visit our website for additional camp information!

Guide

Tots, Dinosaur Dig, CSI Mobile and More! 251-208-6818 hfreeman@exploreum.com www.exploreum.com

Huntington Learning Center ad on page 31

2370-D Hillcrest Road, Mobile, AL 36695 As educators, our mission is to give every student the best education possible. As parents, we understand the need for hope in our children’s future. We provide Tutoring, Test Prep, Personalized Attention and proven results. 251-525-9239 MobileAL@hlcmail.com www.huntingtonhelps.com

The Think Tank Tutoring ad on page 23

Mobile County and Surrounding areas, AL Please call or visit our website for summer programs for individual and group enrichment. 251-414-4494 or 251-300-9697 thinktankminds@ gmail.com www.TheThinkTankTutoring.com

USA Literary Center Tutoring and Summer Camp ad on page 25

Mobile, AL 36608 Reading and Writing Tutoring - First grade through high school. Individual and/or small group reading and writing tutoring Monday-Thursday. Summer Literacy Camp - information coming soon 251-380-2891 jmholland@southalabama.edu www.southalabama.edu/colleges/coe/literacy-center/

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

1204 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Zoo Camp offered to all elementary school age children, ages 5 to 11, in a full day session (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) conducted by licensed teachers and trained volunteers. Camp is June 24-28, 2019. 251-968-5732 zoocamp@algulfcoastzoo.org www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.com

Alabama School of Math and ScienceAdventures in Math & Science Summer Camp

1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Dates: June 3 - 7, 2019, June 10 - 14 and June 17 - 21, 2019 for ages 6th grade - 10th grade. Cost if registered by April 1st: $360 (Overnight) or $260 (Day Camp) and includes lunch. Cost for weekend between is an additional fee of $185 and includes trip to waterpark. Camp Registration Deadline is May 1, 2019. Please visit our website for camp Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

251-210-1632 ext. 104 info@ americanautismcenter.com www.AmericanAutismCenter. com

playing on all of our awesome inflatables and completing awesome crafts, but they will also enjoy our themed days ranging from our balloon drop day to our GLOW WARS day. Ages: 4-10. Dates: TBA

251-342-3940 pumpitupmobile@gmail.com www.PumpItUpParty.com/mobile-al

Revelation Summer Enrichment Program

1711 Taylor Lane, Mobile, AL 36605 Revelation Summer Enrichment Program will focus on the subject areas of Reading and Math in a fun and educational way for grades Kindergarten-5th grade. Snacks will be provided. The dates for the program are June 24-July 12th from 8-12 PM. . Space is limited!! 251-473-2333 www.rmbcmob.org

Spa Tea Da

3938 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36606 Summer is so much fun at Spa-Tea-Da! Please see all of our events at www.spa-tea-da.com and subscribe to get notifications or find them on our Facebook event page.

Dancing Needle Designs 251-447-4846 www.spa-tea-da.com

6103 SouthBend Drive, Mobile, AL 36619 Beginners Machine Sewing (Ages 8-12) 9:00am12:00pm June 10-14 ($145), Painting with Thread and Hand sewing (Ages 5-8) 9:00am-12:00pm June 17-20 ($110), Teen Sewing all levels 1:00pm4:00pm June 24-28 ($145), Machine Sewing Level 2 July 22-26 9:00am-12:00pm ($145), Machine Sewing Level 3 ( advancing students) July 29-August 2, 9:00am-12:00pm ($145). 251-454-5263 Find us on Facebook

Farm Adventure Summer Day Camp

Linda’s Learning Farm and Play Park, 2380 Havens Road, Semmes, AL 36575 Children will experience what farm life is like. There will be barn activities, garden fun, and daily horse interaction, swimming and playtime. Ages 6-11. Please like our Facebook page for more information. 251-649-1802 www.learningfarmandplaypark.com

Junior MedCamp

Mobile Medical Museum, 1664 SpringHill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36604 Curious about health and medicine? Then this is the camp for you! Five full days of games, experiments, and storytelling, exploring topics such as germs and illness, human anatomy, and how common instruments are used. For ages 6 to 8. Dates: July 8-12. 251-415-1109 www.mobilemedicalmuseum.org

Mobile Parks and Recreation Community

Educational Camps and Classes. Tutoring, ACT Classes, Computer Classes and much more. 251-208-1607 www.cityofmobile.org/parks; www.communityactivitiesprogram.com

National Flight Academy

Naval Air Station, 1 Fetterman Way, Pensacola, FL 32508 Summer camp sessions run from March - August 2019. STEM Adventure Saturdays for grades 3 - 8 runs until May 2019; Cruises program for ages 5th - 12th runs from March 14 - April 16, 2019; Summer Adventure Deck runs June 3 - August 2, 2019 for 4th - 6th grade; Summer Deployment Camp for 7th - 12th grades runs May 26 - August 16, 2019. Visit our website to register for camps. 850-458-7836 info@nationalflightacademy.com www.nationalflightacademy.com

Pump It Up

741-A Hillcrest Road, Mobile, AL 36695 Pump it up summer camp is back! Join us for various weeks this summer from 9:00-1:00 for a jumping great time! Cost is $115. Drop in day rates available. Your kids will enjoy jumping and

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Start Smart! College Bound – Career Ready

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

251-622-7962 BTindle@stpaulsmobile.net www.stpaulsmobile.net/summer-on-campus

Start Smart! College Bound – Career Ready, is a college prep program design to help prepare students for college and the workforce. Please visit our website for dates, times and additional information. Like and follow us on Facebook: @startsmartcollegeprep. 251-767-5446 startsmartcollegebound@gmail.com www.startsmartcollegebound.weebly.com

The Cookery

4456 Old Shell Road , Mobile, AL 36608 The Cookery will offer summer cooking camps Tuesday-Fridays from 9:00am-12:00pm most weeks through the Summer. Our camps are perfect for children of all skill levels. Cost per week is $150 per child. 251-654-7646 info@thecookerymobile.com www.thecookerymobile.com

U.S. Space Camp & Aviation Challenge One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805 More details under Overnight Camps. 800-637-7223 www.spacecamp.com

Horseback Riding Riverview Camp for Girls ad on page 27

757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 See details description under Overnight Camps. 800-882-0722 info@riverviewcamp.com www.riverviewcamp.com

Mimi C. Peters Riding School at Silver Lining Farm – Summer Riding Camp 10727 El Nina Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 Day and Overnight Camps offered. Ages 5-16. Silver Lining Farm has one of the best summer camp programs in the country. Each student is worked with one on one as well as in a group setting with

www.mobilebayparents.com

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251-634-1229 horses@silverliningfarm. net www.silverliningfarm.net

251-660-2427 www.cottagehill.org

Sandstone Equestrian Center

Marcus Johnson Summer Jazz Camp

9450-A Jeff Hamilton Road, Mobile, AL 36695 2019 Summer Camps: Beginner Camp - June 10-13, June 24-27, July 29-Aug 1, and Intermediate Camp July 8-11

History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street, Mobile, AL 36602 Marcus Johnson Summer Camp is an opportunity for young people to learn about jazz music and techniques. Dates - Weekdays from July 22-August 2. with a recital the last day.

251-508-2759 sandstoneec@gmail.com www.sandstoneequestriancenter.com

Sandy Ridge Farms Horse Camp

Sand Ridge Rd, Citronelle, AL 36522 Offering a week of exciting fun! Boys and Girls, ages 7-16. Monday - Friday. 9am to 2pm. Until 3 on Fridays. Ride horses, play volleyball, make ice cream, and more.

251-478-4027 www.gcehjazzfest.org/jazz-camp

Springhill Baptist Summer Music Camp

251-866-5733 or 251-610-7246

Summer Enrichment Camps at Cottage Hill Christian Academy

4255 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile, AL 36609 Phonics & Reading Camp: June 3rd-6th (8:30 – 11:30), (K5–2nd Grade), Study Skills Camp: July 8th–11th (8:30-11:30) (for 5th- 8th grades), Math x U Camp: July 15th-18th (8:30- 11:30) (entering 3rd and 4th grades), Math Factors Camp: July 15th18th (8:30- 11:45) (entering 5th and 6th grades) and Pre-Algebra Camp: July 22nd -25th (9:00-12:00) (entering 7th - 8th grades). 251-689-6876 morleyj@chbss.org www.chcacademy.com

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp for Girls

606 Valley View Ranch Rd, Cloudland, GA 30731 Horse lovers’ paradise since 1954! Overnight for 50 girls, ages 8-17; Located on 600 acres, English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails. CHA instructors teach beginner to advanced riders. Spend 4-6 hours daily with your OWN camp horse. 706-862-2231 info@valleyviewranch.com www.valleyviewranch.com

Music Camps Blue Bird Therapy Music & Movement ad on page 22

6157 Airport Blvd Suite 205, Mobile, AL 36608 Playing instruments and singing songs that gets kids moving! June 10-14 for ages 3 to 4. Visit our website for more information and summer dates. 251-287-0378 info@bluebirdtherapy.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Christ United Methodist Church Kindermusik Summer Camp ad on Inside Front Cover

6101 Grelot Road, Mobile, AL 36609 For Children 12 – 18 months & 1 ½ - 3 years, June 3, 5, 10, 12, 17 & 19 on Mondays & Wednesdays. For Children 12 – 18 months & 1 ½ - 3 years on Tuesdays and Thursdays – June 4, 6, 11, 13, 18 & 20. Classes for older children are being planned. For more information or a full list of Kindermusik at Christ United Methodist visit kindermusikatchristunited.com or call 251-706-3336. 251-706-3326 www.kindermusikatchristunited. kindermusik.com

Full Scale School Of Music ad on page 11

Azalea City Center for the Arts, 63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606 Full Scale School of Music is proud to offer Fun, challenging, and educational Summer Camps for grades K - 12. June 3 – June 7 Rock Band Jr. 8:30 – 12 (Rising Grades K-5), Rock Band 8:30 - 3:30 (Rising Grades 6-12), June 10 – 14 Praise Band 8:30 3:30 (Rising Grades 6-12), Rock Band 8:30 - 3:30 (RisingmGrades 6-12), June 17 – 21 Star Wars Piano 8:30-12 (Rising Grades K-5), June 24 – 28 Hands on Instruments 8:30 - 12 (Rising Grades K-5) July 8 - July 12 -Disney Music 8:30 – 12 (Rising Grades K-5), Rock Band 8:30 - 3:30 (Rising Grades 6-12) July 15 - July 19 Hands on Instruments 8:30 - 12 (Rising Grades K-5) Rock Band 8:30 - 3:30 (Rising Grades 6-12), July 22 - July 26 Rock Band 8:30 - 3:30 (Rising Grades 6-12), July 29 - August 2 - Star Wars Piano 8:30 – 12 ( Rising Grades K-5) 251-454-6591 fullscaleschool@gmail.com www.fullscaleschool.com/summer-camp/

ad on page 7

Mobile, AL Private summer piano lessons where the student can learn sightreading, ear training, improvising and more! Ages 4 and up. 251-272-9616 www.mobileschoolofpiano.com

Auburn Summer Band Camp

320 W Samford Avenue, Auburn, AL 36849 Auburn Summer Band Camps: Yamaha “Sounds of Summer” Marching Percussion Camp - June 4 - 5. High School Symphonic Camp - June 9-12, Marching Leadership Camp - June 12-15 and Middle School Symphonic and Marching Auxiliary Camps - June 20-22 334- 844-4166 www.band.auburn.edu

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

161 Dogwood Lane, Mobile, AL 36608 See listing under Educational Camps for details. 251-622-7962 BTindle@stpaulsmobile.net www.stpaulsmobile.net/summer-on-campus

University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 This summer, we will offer one week of instruction with programs in Leadership Training (High School 9-12), Marching Percussion (High School 9-12), Majorette (High School 9-12), and Concert Band (Junior High and Senior High 6-12). 205-348-6068 jhnails@ua.edu www.bands.ua.edu/programs

USA Piano Camp: Bach and the Baroque

251-460-6237 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/pianocamp.html

Overnight Camps Camp ASCCA Easter Seals ad on page 7

5278 Camp Ascca Drive, Jacksons Gap, AL 36861 Summer sessions begin June 30, 2019 with a new session beginning each Sunday. Camp Sessions are Sunday - Friday for ages 7 years and up. Each session is separated by age groups. Visit our website for registration and camp session specifics. 256-825-9226 amber@campascca.org www.campascca.org

4255 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile, AL 36609 ”He Still Does Miracles” Worship Camp 2019 is coming to Cottage Hill Baptist Church July 8th -12th (8:45-12:00). Join us at CHBC for an exciting week of games, creative movement, worship songs, art and so much more! When: July 8th-12th with a performance Friday night, July 12th. Time: 8:45-12:00 each day Where: Cottage Hill Baptist Church Kids Worship Who: For COMPLETED K5 – 5th grade Cost: $25 per child. Registration begins in May. For more information contact Kym at hardingk@chbss.org. Special concert, Friday night, July 12 at 6:30 Sign up in

251-342-5320 drice@shbc.cc www.shbc.cc/smash

University of South Alabama, 307 University Boulevard North, Mobile, AL 36608 We are excited to offer this workshop to pianists age 11 and up. June 24-28, $300.00 per student.

Mobile School of Piano

Cottage HIll Baptist Church Music Worship Camp

2 South McGregor Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608 Music day camp: July 15-19, 9:30-1:30 for ages completed PreK4-6th grade. Join us for fun-filled days of group singing, performing, instruments and music learning activities. Grade 1-6 performance: Sunday, July 21, 6:00pm.

Christ United Methodist Church Camp Lee Summer Camp ad on Inside Front Cover

70 Camp Lee Main Road, Anniston, AL 36207 Campers will have the opportunity to experience amazing activities including an intense zip-line into a beautiful lake, a natural rock-slide, and a huge pool! There will be dynamic worship, engaging messages, and great fellowship (current 6th - 12th Grade) Dates: June 5 – 9. For details and to register visit christunitedstudents.com/register. Deadline to register: May 19. 251-706-3326 www.christunitedstudents.com/register

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Alabama School of Math and Science Adventures in Math & Science Summer Camp

2019

1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604 See Educational and Miscellaneous Camps for details.

251-441-2152 AIMS@ ASMS.NET www.asms.net

Camp Beckwith

Guide Dauphin Island Sea Lab Summer Residential Camp ad on page 39

101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Barrier Island Explorers: Rising 5th-6th graders June 2 - 5, June 9 - 12 or July 21 - 24, 2019; Marine DeTECHtives: Rising 6th - 8th grade July 14 - 16, 2019; Gulf Island Journey: Rising 7th 9th grades June 2 - 7, June 16-21, July 7-12 pr July 21-26, 2019; Bay Voyager: Rising 9th - 12th grade. July 14 - 19, 2019. The Dauphin Island Sea Lab offers hands-on adventures with the best educational staff around. Overnight campers, 5th through 12th graders, discover coastal Alabama habitats from the beautiful bay, to the fascinating marshes, and Dauphin Island’s sunny beaches. See and do new things. 251-861-2141 (ext. 7515) DHPsummer@disl.org www.disl.org

Dauphin Island Sea Lab Marine Science Course ad on page 39

101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL 36528 June 16 - July 12, 2019. An intense 4-week academic class which introduces high school students to a better understanding of the various fields in marine science. Students live on campus and participate in more than 150 hours of supervised academic activities, take part in lectures, individual and group assignments, laboratory investigations, field projects, oral presentations, and written and practical examinations. This course also offers science credit to students. The cost is $2,250 and the application Deadline is April 2, 2019. Applications are available online. 251-861-2141 (ext. 7515) DHPsummer@disl.org www.disl.org

Riverview Camp for Girls ad on page 27

757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 2019 Camps run from May – August. An all girls overnight camp offerring both one and two-week summer sessions for ages 6-16 years. Horse riding, swimming, nature trails, ropes, sports, arts and crafts, and much more! Also offering weekend retreats for mother-daughter adventures. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 800-882-0722 info@riverviewcamp.com www.riverviewcamp.com

Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

10400 Beckwith Lane, Fairhope, AL 36532 Camp Dates: Leaders-inTraining (LIT): June 6-7, Session 1 (6th-8th Grade): June 9-14, Session 2 (3rd5th Grade): June 16-21 Session 3 (7th-9th Grade): June 23-28, Special Ministries: June 30-July 3, Session 5 (5th & 6th Grade): July 7-12, Session 6 (6th & 7th Grade): July 14-19, Session 7 (3rd & 4th Grade): July 21-25, Family Camp (1st Grade+): July 26-28.

251-928-7844 addie@beckwithal.com www.beckwithal.com

Camp Cosby

2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road, Alpine, AL 35014 Camp Cosby offers a traditional overnight summer camp. Campers stay in air-conditioned cabins with highly-trained camp counselors. Activities include archery, canoeing, horseback riding, water-skiing, arts and crafts. Dates: June 2- July 27, Ages: 6-15. 800-85-COSBY cinfo@campcosby.org www.campcosby.org

Camp Dixie

29711 Josephine Drive, Elberta, AL 36530 Camp Dixie is a private, traditional overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6 - 15, only 2 hours from Atlanta, Georgia. Offering a wide variety of activities, a limited enrollment of 70 campers, and multiple week or weekly sessions. 251-987-1201 director@campdixieministries.org www.campdixieministries.org

Camp Mac for Boys and Girls

Located in the Talladega National Forest - Cheaha Mountain, 2671 Cheaha Road, Munford, AL 36268 A traditional camp where we learn stuff, do things, and have fun! 256-362-7449 office@campmac.com www.campmac.com

Camp Marymount

1318 Fairview Boulevard, Fairview, TN 37062 We offer four sessions ranging from one to three weeks to campers ages 6-16. Our girls’ session dates are June 2nd - June 14th and June 16th - July 5th. Our Boys’ session dates are July 14th - July 19th and July 21st - August 2nd. 615-799-0410 Allee@campmarymount.com www.campmarymount.com

Camp Nakanawa

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

Camp Seale Harris

500 Chase Park S, Ste 104, Birmingham, AL 36244 Camp Seale Harris is living well! Hundreds of youth with diabetes come each year to camp for a

medically-supervised, fun camp experience and family connection to year-round support that helps them fight diabetes every day. 205-402-0415 info@campsealeharris.org www.campsealeharris.org

Camp Skyline

4888 Alabama Hwy 117, Mentone, AL 35984 Camp Skyline is a residential, summer camp in northern Alabama for girls between the ages of 6 and 16. We offer four 2-week sessions each summer as well as three 1-week mini-sessions for girls ages 6 – 8. 800-448-9279 info@campskyline.com www.campskyline.com

Camp Smile

3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile, AL 36607 Camp SMILE is a residential camp for individuals with disabilities five to fifty years old and their siblings. Session 1: June 25-29, 2019 - ages 5-9, Session 2: July 2-6, 2019 - ages 22-50, Session 3: July 9-13, 2019 – ages 10-14, Session 4: July 16-20, 2019 – ages 15-21. Application Deadline: April 1, 2019. 251-479-4900 campsmile@ucpmobile.org www.campsmilemobile.org

Camp Stanislaus

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304 South beach Blvd, Bay St. Louis, MS 39520 Camp Stanislaus - “a lifetime of memories and friendships”. A day and resident camp for boys and girls ages 8-15. Camp runs weekly from June 9-July 6, 2019. Father and Son Camp July 6-7, 2019. 228-467-9057 camp@ststan.com www.campstanislaus.com

Camp Victory

363 Victory Circle, Samson, AL 36477 Summer Camp Dates 2019: June 3-8 (Grades 3-6), June 10-15 (Grades 4-7), June 17-22 (Grades 3-6), June 24-29 (Grades 9-12), July 1-6 (Grades 6-9), July 8-13 (Grades 3-6), July 15-20 (Grades 4-7) and July 22-27 (Grades 5-8) 334-898-7948 jmerhige@ymcamidtn.org www.campvictoryal.org

Camp Whispering Pines

7740 Union Street, Citronelle, AL 36522 Veritas Student Camp June 17-21 for grades 6th - 12th; Girls Mission Camp for girls 1st - 6th grade June 24-28; Momentum Kids Camp July 15-18, 2019. For boys and girls in 1st - 6th grade. Visit our Website for details. 251-866-7868 www.campwhisperingpines.com

Camp Winnataska

260 Winnataska Drive, Pell City, AL 35218 2019 camps run from June 5 - July 27, 2019. Offering a wide variety of quality camp sessions for boys and girls ages 6-15 years old. Full week sessions and mini-camps. 205-640-6741 info@winnataska.org www.winnataska.org

Camp Woodmont

381 Moonlight Drive, Cloudland, GA 30731 ACA accredited camp. Offers loads of activities: archery, climbing, horseback riding, canoeing, crafts, game and more! 1 & 2 week sessions for boys & girls 6 to 14. Season: May 26 - July 26. 423-472-6070 alyson@campwoodmont.com www.campwoodmont.com

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama

3483 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608 Our properties host camping and outdoor activities, which remain a favorite for girls ages 5-17. In the summer, during the months of June and July, we offer the opportunity to attend resident or sail away camp for every girl, whether they are a Girl Scout

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or not. Throughout the year, troops can conquer our zip lines and water craft activities, camp in lodges and tents, learn outdoor and survival skills, and discover nature at Kamp Kiwanis in Eclectic or Scoutshire Woods in Citronelle. See our website for how to register. 800-239-6636 customercare@girlscoutssa.org www.girlscoutssa.org

Lake Forest Ranch

5326 Lake Forest Road, Macon, AL 39341 Camps run from May 24 - July 31, 2019 for ages 7 - 21 years. Family Escape Camp is August 30 September 2, 2019. Please visit our website for the complete schedule of camp sessions. 662-726-5052 info@lakeforestranch.com www.lakeforestranch.com

Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys

277 County Road 632, Mentone, AL 35984 Summer, resident camp for Boys. Oldest continuing camp run by same family since 1928. Staff are never solicited nor accepted from the internet...2, 3, 4, 5, 6 week options available. Please visit website for dates, times and additional camp information. 256-634-4758; 504-861-1534 camp.com

www.lookoutmountain-

Sports Camps

Heisler Heat Baseball Academy

4623 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608 Summer Camps: June 4-6, June 25-27, July 23-25 from 9am-12pm. Pricing and additional information can be found on our website.

BlueBird Therapy Fit & Fun Camp

251-581-1556 heislerheat@gmail.com www.heislerheatbaseball.com

ad on page 22

6157 Airport Blvd, Suite 205, Mobile, AL 36608 Taught by a certified exercise physiologist, this camp teaches games, fun ways to exercise, and steps toward more healthy living! June 17-21 for ages 5 to 12. Visit our website for more information. 251-287-0378 info@bluebirdtherapy.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

BlueBird Therapy Yoga Camp

McGill Toolen Summer Sports Camps

ad on page 22

6157 Airport Blvd, Suite 205, Mobile, AL 36608 Taught by a certified kids yoga instructor, the camp uses upbeat and fast-paced yoga set to music to help strengthen kids and get them moving! June 10-14 for ages 5 to 11. Visit our website for more information. 251-287-0378 info@bluebirdtherapy.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Meeks Rydell Volleyball

University of South Alabama, 307 North University Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 Team Camps: July 6 - 8, 2019 for Grades 9 - 12, (6 full day sessions); Little Meekseyyys Camp: July 15, 2019 (Grades 4th - 8th from 12:00pm 5:30pm); All Skills Camp:July 18 -19, 2019 (Grades 8 -12, full day camp); Elite Skills Camp: July 20-21, 2019 (Grades 8 - 12, full day camp). Please visit the website for more camp information.

Mobile, AL 36608 Golf lessons, clinics and golf fitness classes.

251-490-3812 michael@michaelbrisbanegolf.com www.michaelbrisbanegolf.com

Mobile Parks & Rec. Community Activities

Mobile, AL Many sports camps are offered in various locations around Mobile. 251-208-1617 www.cityofmobile.org/parks/pdf/current_program.pdf

Mobile Tennis Center

851 Gaillard Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 Offering summer clinics.

251-208-5181 www.mobiletenniscenter.net

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251-445-2900 www.mcgill-toolen.org

Michael Brisbane Golf Instruction

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1501 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36604 McGill will offer a large variety of sports camps this summer including baseball, track & field, football, boys basketball, co-ed soccer, volleyball, girls basketball, boys and girls tennis and cheerleading.

205-460-7372 Rchilcoat@southalabama.edu www.meeksrydellvolleyball.com

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2513 Leroy Stevens Road, Mobile, AL 36695 Sports Performance, FitCamps, Gym Memberships, Batting Cages, Baseball/Softball, Indoor Soccer, Character Building, Speed&Agility, Strength 251- 639-2261 www.facebook.com/highvelocity251/

High Velocity Sports Performance & Fitness

Space Camp, Aviation Challenge Camp & Space Camp Robotics One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805 Camp sessions begin March and run through August 2019 for ages 9 - 18 years.

256-837-3400; 800-637-7223 www.spacecamp.com/sc

Wyldlife Camp

18115 SE 95th Street Road, Ocklawaha, FL 32179 Mobile Trip - June 1-5; Grades 6th-8th grade; $650 Ready for a week you will always remember? Come experience a place filled with fun, adventure, and plenty of surprises. A place where you can enjoy relaxing with your friends. A place made especially for you. 251-473-1703 www.mobile.younglife.org

YMCA Camp Chandler

1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092 Since 1928 YMCA Camp Chandler has provided youth with the opportunity to build meaningful relationships, develop new skills, and create memories that last a lifetime. 334-229-0035 campchandler@ymcamontgomery.org www.campchandler.org

Nike Junior Golf Camp - University of South Alabama

Christ United Methodist Church Summer Sports Camps ad on Inside Front Cover

6101 Grelot Road, Mobile, AL 36609 Summer Camps: C-Sports Little Dribblers Basketball Camp (entering K5 for the 2019-2020 school year) - June 17-18, 5:30pm-6:30pm, Online registration deadline is June 7th, fee - $30. C-Sports Basketball Camp (1st - 6th Grade for the 2019 - 20 school year) - June 17-20, 9:00am-12:00pm, Online registration deadline is June 7th, fee - $55. C-Sports Cheer Camp (For K5 - 5th Grade for the 2019 - 20 school year) July 15-19, 5:30pm-7:30pm. Register at christunitedcsports.com or in person. 251-706-3326 www.christunitedcsports.com

Graham’s Elite Martial Arts

1121 Dawes Road, Mobile, AL 36695 Summer doesn’t have to be boring. Mobile Summer Camp at Graham’s Elite Martial Arts makes it amazing with Character Development, Fitness and Fun. 251-633-7837 www.grahamselitemartialarts.com/ summer-camp

Magnolia Grove Golf Course, 7001 Magnolia Grove Parkway, Mobile, AL 36618 Our curriculum is the perfect blend of expert instruction, course play and off-course activities. With dedicated coaches at the helm, each Nike camper can leave at the end of the week feeling more confident about their game. Dates: 6/23/196/27/19. Ages: 10-18. 800-645-3226 www.ussportscamps.com/golf/nike/ nike-junior-golf-camp-university-south-alabama#

Oakwood Swim Team and Lessons

5260 Perin Road, Mobile, AL 36693 Oakwood sponsors a competitive Swim Team for all ages; Guppies – 5 year and under, Juniors – ages 6-14, and Seniors – ages 15-18. Morning and afternoon practices are available. Sessions are as follows: June 4-15, June 18-29, July 9-20, mini session July 23-27; all sessions are offered in the morning or evening. Oakwood also sponsors a Dive team and offers Dive lessons. 251-666-4471 www.oakwoodmobile.com

Oakwood Tennis Camps

5260 Perin Road, Mobile, AL 36693 Michael O’Brien will be Oakwood’s 2018 Junior

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exciting sports camps including Nick Saban Football Camp, Baseball, Cheer/Dance, Mascot, Golf, Tennis, Gymnastics, Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball, Track and Field, Softball and Swimming and Diving.

2019

www.rolltide.com

University of Mobile RAMS Soccer Camps

5735 College Parkway, Mobile, AL 36613 Rams Soccer Camps at The University of Mobile offer ¾ day, full day and residential camp options. UM Co-Ed Camp ages 8-18: June 2-5, & July 14-17. College Prep Camp (grades 9-12) June 23-25.

Guide

Tennis Camp coordinator. Camps are available for Boys and Girls, ages 6 and up. Please call 251666-4471 for specific camp dates and times. All above teams, lessons and camps are available to Oakwood Members and Non-members. 251-666-4471 www.oakwoodmobile.com

Spring Hill College Sports Camps

4000 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36608 Numerous summer sports camps. Please check our website for information on soccer, baseball, basketball, softball and volleyball camps. www.shcbadgers.com

St. Luke’s Episcopal School Summer Sports Camps

3975 Japonica Lane; 1400 University Boulevard South, Mobile, AL 36693; 36609 St. Luke’s Varsity Athletic Department sponsors a variety of athletic camps throughout the summer for students of all age groups. Sports camps include football, basketball, baseball, volleyball, soccer and tennis! Camp dates and costs will be posted on the school’s website as soon as they become available. Early registration is recommended. Contact mdonald@stlukesmobile.com if you have any questions. 251-666-2991 www.stlukesmobile.com

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

161 Dogwood Lane, Mobile, AL 36608 See listing under Educational Camps for details. 251-622-7962 BTindle@stpaulsmobile.net www.stpaulsmobile.net/summer-on-campus

The Ballpark Mobile

14061 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 The Ballpark Mobile is an indoor training facility for baseball and softball. Speed and agility, private, team, camps, clinics and group training! 251- 694-2888 info@theballparkmobile.com www.ballparkmobile.com

UMS-Wright

65 Mobile Street, Mobile, AL 36607 UMS-Wright Preparatory School is once again offering a variety of camps this summer. For information regarding Lower School camps, please call 251-470-9040. Registration forms for athletic camps can found at athletics.ums-wright.org. 251-479-6551 sblankenship@ums-wright.org www.ums-wright.org

University of Alabama Sports Camps

Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 The University of Alabama is offering several Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

251-442-2396 ramssocceracademy@gmail.com www. ramssoccercamps.com

University of South Alabama Amy Hendrichovsky Volleyball Camps

Jaguar Gym, 171 Jaguar Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 The University of South Alabama Volleyball team would love to extend an invitation to work with your volleyball program this summer! Camp dates: TBA. Please check our website for more information. www.amyhendrichovskyvolleyballcamps.com

University of South Alabama Boys Basketball Camps

Jaguar Gym, 171 Jaguar Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 2019 Boys Basketball Camps (Grades 2nd-8th) Individual Camp 1 - June 17-20 Individual Camp 2 - June 24-27

University of South Alabama Track and Field Camp 1209 Mitchell Center, Mobile, AL 36608 Azalea City Summer Track & Field Camp – 06/10/2019 – 06/12/2019 (ages 9-19) 251-460-7656 pbrueske@southalabama.edu www.jagfieldcamp.com

Swimming & Water Fun City of Mobile Swim Association

351 North Broad South, Mobile, AL 36603 The City of Mobile Swim Association offers training and practice groups for swimmers of all ages and ability levels. We work to offer age specific training for all of our athletes geared towards challenging each individual and developing each individual to the best of THEIR abilities. www.swimcmsa.com

Gulf Coast Swimfants

2423 Schillinger Road South, Mobile, AL 36695 Teaching children aged 6 months – 4 years old ISR Self-Rescue techniques designed to help them survive should they reach the water. 251-391-4799 matthew.johnson@infantswim.com www.infantswim.com; www.swimfants.com

Mobile Bay Sailing School

4295 Marina Drive North, Mobile, AL 36605 We will offer one-week training sessions. We have been teaching sailing and basic seamanship skills to kids between the ages of 8 and 18 since 1982. This program is open to anyone who has an interest in learning about this wonderful sport. We will offer one-week training sessions. 251-471-3131 www.mobilebaysailingschool.com

MBP

www.richierileybasketballcamp.com

University of South Alabama Girls Basketball Camps

Jaguar Gym, 171 Jaguar Drive Mobile, AL 36608 2019 Camps: Team Play Dates (High School Varsity and JV) - June 6, 7, 14. College Prep Camp (ages 14-18) - June 15, August 24. Fundamentals & Shooting Camp (ages 7-14) June 10-13.

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University of South Alabama Richard Moodie’s Soccer Academy

5950 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36608 Soccer Camps are held each summer. Kids Summer Camps – 06/03/2019 – 06/06/2019 (ages 5-12 boys and girls) Collegiate Prospect Camp 06/15/2015 – 06/18/2019 (grades 8-12+) , Striker/ Keeper Camp 06/17/2017 – 06/19/2019 (grades 8-12+) and Team Camp (grades 8-12, girls only) June 21 – 24.

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www.rmsacamps.com

University of South Alabama Steve Campbell Football Camps

South Ala Football Complex, Mobile, AL 36608 2019 Summer Camp Information – Prospect Camp #1 06/01/2019, #2 06/07/19, #3 06/08/19, #4 06/14/19, #5 06/15/19, #6 07/26/19 (grades 9th – College Sophomore), Youth Football Camp 06/06/19 - 06/07/19 (grades 1st - 8th), OL/DL/Skill Position Camp 06/09/19 - 06/10/19 (grades 9th 12th, ), and Specialist Camp 06/08/2019 (grades 9th – College Sophomore) www.jaguarfootballcamps.com

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Combining recreation with reward, toys that derive part of their enjoyment from their assembly are ideal for every age. Moving beyond the entertainment value of a standard toy, playthings that foster their own construction have added benefits. The building process supports developing motor skills and helps young minds grasp the process of design. Additionally, having a hand in the mechanics of assembly helps kids understand cause and effect relationships while encouraging testing and experimentation. The following items support self-confidence in children as they exercise their power of creation, building their own playthings, piece by piece.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Take Apart Wooden Block Animals

Kidtastic Take Apart Dinosaurs (Kidtastic)

Perfect for the mechanically minded fan of dinosaurs, this three-pack of cretaceous creatures includes 106 BPA-free plastic pieces that assemble into Tyrannosaurus Rex, Elasmosaurus and Triceratops. Using one of the three universal screwdrivers that work the connector screws for all, little hands can make quick work of building their dinosaur squad. The cultivation of logic, problem-solving skills and fine motor control are extra benefits for kids as they put together each creature. Echoing elements of real paleontology with its nod toward the assembly of dinosaurs from assorted parts, Kidtastic Take Apart Dinosaurs is the perfect combination of 3D puzzle-solving and prehistoric play.

(Fun Little Toys)

Before they curate the first residents in their little zoo, Fun Little Toys’ Take Apart Wooden Animals lets kids build their animals all on their own. Featuring 48 wooden pieces, this set includes the building blocks for an adorable giraffe, a smiley tiger, a cute zebra and a lovely lion, all waiting to be connected into their 3D forms. Colorfully crafted with child-safe paints and smooth surfaces, each creature is easily recognized by its parts and simple for small children to intuit how they are put together. With nuts and bolts that are sized just right for little hands to grip and manipulate, no tools are needed for kids to get right to the task of assembling their own mini menagerie.

Pidoko Airplane

Battat Take Apart Roadster

(Pidoko)

Before pretend play takes off, kids can experience the mechanics behind the marvels of flight with the PIdoko Airplane. Guided by a step-by-step manual and using two easily handled tools, children can draft their first biplane from colorful, sturdy wooden parts. This hands-on exploration of mechanical concepts supports STEM thinking and exploration as kids build their first plane. This kit also offers alternative building options can stimulate young minds to explore their own design options and build creativity. Adding a DIY wrinkle to constructive play, the Pidoko Airplane adds a learning lift to playtime hangar.

(Battat)

Combining vintage style with easy elements, the Battat Roadster puts the rubber to the road for young automotive engineers. Using a battery-powered reversible drill with three interchangeable bits, children can easily assemble the 18 sturdy plastic car parts into a sleek automobile that’s road-ready for playtime.The roadster’s open seating also invites the inclusion of other toys to come along for the ride. Encouraging the development of fine motor skills and intuitive construction, this kit is also an ideal introduction the the ‘righty tighty, lefty loosey’ mantra that will serve them the rest of their lives when approaching a mechanical task.

Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

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Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

www.mobilebayparents.com

According to CNN Money, the Millennial Generation, those born between 1977 and 1995, switch jobs four times by the time they are 32. It is not surprising, then, that the average age of a community college student is 29. It seems that people are switching careers in addition to changing just their jobs. If you are in the market for a new career, consider these mom-friendly options. They offer flexible learning at an affordable price and will have you working in a new industry in about a year.

Real Estate Agent

This is one of the most affordable re-education option for a new career. Classes are offered through local real estate firms as accelerated courses (2-3 weeks), home study or classroom learning. Each state has different requirements, but the average course time requires 90-135 hours, plus 30 post-license hours. According to Simply Hired, the average real estate agent makes $33,000 their first year.

Cosmetologist

This licensure covers hairdresser, colorist, makeup artist, nail technician and esthetician. Depending on the state you are working in, the programs require 1200-2100 hours of education. Classes are flexible and include daytime, evening and weekend hours and can be completed in one to two years. If you are looking to spend less time and money, the nail technician program ranges from 600-750 hours for completion. The salary range for a Cosmetologist is $16,000-$44,000 according to Payscale.com.

Radiologic Technologist

With this degree, you can perform diagnostic imaging exams and administer radiation treatments. Most community colleges offer an associate’s degree, which is a two year program. However, if you already have a college degree, many of your general education classes should transfer, allowing you to complete your degree in less time. According to Salary.com, the median income of a Radiologic Technologist is $52,216.

Medical Assistant

If you are interested in the medical field down the road, this is a great foot in the door. The career outlook for a Medical Assistant is better than average – 23% growth over the next 10 years according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. The job entails administrative and clinical tasks in hospitals and physician’s offices. You can be certified in a year and go back to complete your associates degree, if desired, after you are employed. Median salary for a Medical Assistant is $30,590.

Dental Hygienist

The amount of time it takes to complete this program through a community college depends on your previous education. Both two and four year degrees are accepted in the industry. Some community colleges offer 2+2 plans, allowing you to obtain a bachelor’s degree for the cost of community college classes. According to Payscale.com, the earnings of a Hygienist is $46,775 to $87,356.

Dog Groomer

Did you know most dog groomers are women? The average dog grooming school teaches safety, proper use of grooming tools

and breed standards in a hands-on learning environment much like a Cosmetologist. The program time averages 500 hours to certification. Sadly, many states do not regulate a licensure program for dog groomers. Payscale.com reports the average dog groomer makes between $18,119 and $47,673. Since dog groomers split their pay with the shop owner, there is greater income potential for dog groomers who are self-employed.

Bookkeeper

If you don’t have the time to get an advanced accounting degree, why not start with a bookkeeping certificate? A bookkeeper, otherwise known as a para professional accountant, assists business owners with general accounting procedures, payroll and tax preparation under the assistance of a CPA. It takes approximately 18 months and $6500 to complete the program through a community college and often includes opportunity for job placement. According to the Accounting Training and Testing Center, bookkeepers make between $38,500 and $57,250 per year.

Technologies

There are many opportunities in this field and often requires less than a year for certification. The most common positions are in network security and support and system specialists. In other words, these are the people who set up and maintain large computer systems. Depending on your certification, you can expect to make $36,000 - $75,000 according to Payscale.com. MBP Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. With the help of her supportive husband and family, she was able to go back to school and start a new career in less than a year.

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FamilyCalendar Saturday March 30

2019 Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk 8:00 AM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36603 Honor all of those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 and support our first responders and military who make extraordinary sacrifices in the line of duty! www.eventbrite.com Dauphin Island Native American Festival 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Native American Festival with pottery, weaving, arts & crafts, 18th Century Creek Hunting Camp, storytelling and more. 251-861-3300 dauphinislandarts.org Hop on the Hill 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Village of Springhill, Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for Hop on the Hill. www.facebook.com/springhillmerchantsassociation/ Mobile Chocolate Festival ($3.00 in advance- $5.00

day of event~free admission for children 13 and under)

10:00 AM The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us to benefit Penelope House. We will have vendors that vary from having chocolate-themed wares to succulent confections to jewelry to bath and body products. Also featured: Children’s Area, Mobile Fixture Demonstration Area, Chocolate Challenge featuring professionals, amateurs, and youth divisions, Project Yum Way where students and aspiring designers participate in a fashion display of chocolate inspired fashions made from chocolate candy wrappers, Cupcake Booth, Chocolate Martini tasting, Magic Memories Photo Booth, an outdoor Cruise-In, music by Franklin Pratt, and much more. www.mobilechocolatefestival.com Something Special for Saturday (Free) 10:30 AM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Calling all children, ages 5 and Up! Join us as we make Solo Cup Stained Glass. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org American Cancer Society Chili Cookoff 11:00 AM Mardi Gras Park, 104 South Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us at the American Cancer Society 30th Annual Chili Cook-for a spectacular, funfilled day of food, fun and entertainment! www.mobile.org/event/american-cancer-societychili-cook-off/17997/ Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL, 36576 Enjoy a steam train ride on Dame Ann to meet the Easter Bunny this holiday season! Guests will travel by train to the “Bunny Hutch” and enjoy an egg hunt, crafts, refreshments, a miniature train ride, hayless hay ride, playground and bounce house. Dates: March 23 – April 20 Saturdays and Sundays. www.waleswest.com Mobile Symphony presents “Carmina Burana” 7:30 PM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 At the beginning of the 1930s, Orff produced a number of arrangements of early music. His researches in this area led to the creation of Carmina Burana. The texts come from a collection of earthy lyrics, discovered in a Bavarian monastery and dating from the twelfth and

Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

thirteenth centuries. It contains some 200 drinking songs and love lyrics. Orff saw in it the ideal vehicle to express basic human emotions. www.mobilesymphony.org Mike Epps - Comedy Tour 8:00 PM Mobile Civic Center , 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL, 36602 Mike Epps Comedy Tour www.mobilecivicctr.com

Sunday March 31

Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL, 36576 Enjoy a steam train ride on Dame Ann to meet the Easter Bunny this holiday season! Guests will travel by train to the “Bunny Hutch” and enjoy an egg hunt, crafts, refreshments, a miniature train ride, hayless hay ride, playground and bounce house. Dates: March 23 – April 20 Saturdays and Sundays. www.waleswest.com Springhill Medical Center Hello Baby Family & Baby Expo 1:00 PM Holiday Inn Mobile, 3630 Springhill Memorial Drive South Mobile, AL, 36608 Expectant mothers, soon-to-be parents, new parents, and expanding families are invited to attend the Springhill Medical Center Hello Baby Family & Baby Expo. Join us for a fun day to discover new products and services for your baby or your family. Also, there will be OB/GYNs, Pediatricians, and numerous vendors set up with educational materials on immunizations, keeping baby safe & healthy, and parenting tips. Physicians and our own experts from The Birthing Suites at Springhill will be making presentations throughout the day that feature best practices for taking care of your baby.Register for several babyhelpful gifts to be given out to attendees during the event and a grand prize. 251-460-5440 Mobile Symphony presents “Carmina Burana” 2:30 PM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 At the beginning of the 1930s, Orff produced a number of arrangements of early music. His researches in this area led to the creation of Carmina Burana. The texts come from a collection of earthy lyrics, discovered in a Bavarian monastery and dating from the twelfth and thirteenth centuries. It contains some 200 drinking songs and love lyrics. Orff saw in it the ideal vehicle to express basic human emotions. www.mobilesymphony.org Spotlight Talent Showcase Murphy High School, 100 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Be a part of the free SPOTLIGHT Talent Showcase. First-prize winners in each age division will be awarded a cash prize for an arts program at their school and perform at the 2019 Distinguished Young Women National Finals! Open to and 1-12 grader in Mobile and Baldwin County. Any talent is welcome and there will be awards for Individuals and groups.There will be two showcases on March 31st: 2pm for 1-6 graders and 6pm for 7-12 graders. www.GulfCoastSpotlight.com

Tuesday April 2

StoryTime: Bugs Galore (Free) 10:00 AM 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at 10am for as we read a story in the theater, followed by arts and crafts. Free, designed for children

up to the age of 6 years. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Menopause The Musical 7:30 PM Mobile Civic Center , 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL, 36602 Menopause The Musical www.mobilecivicctr.com USA Jazz Ensemble Spring Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Jazz Ensemble Spring Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Wednesday April 3

2019 K-12 Science and Technology Open House 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The NSF EPSCoR CPU2AL project, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), invites middle school teachers and students to participate in a one-of-a-kind STEM experience on April 3, 2019, at the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center. The open house will include full access to the Exploreum including IMAX presentations and hands-on science demonstrations. Little Discoveries 10:00 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Included in General Admission for non-members. Free for Exploreum Members. Takes place in the Wharf of Wonders and is for little scientists six years old and younger. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Brown Bag in Bienville 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Bienville Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Spring has sprung in downtown Mobile! Come out and listen to the soothing Sounds of live jazz as you lunch in Bienville Square around the historic Ketchum Fountain. Catt Sirten sets up live musicians and the City sets up tables for your enjoyment each Wednesday in the Spring. www.ncsmobile.org Moorer YMCA’s 4th Annual Starry Night Block Party 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, 101 North Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Enjoy an amazing night with catering by Von’s, open wine/beer bar (cash bar as well), LIVE music by Yeah Probably, silent auction, raffles, and more! All proceeds benefit our YMCA Scholarship Campaign for Youth, Families, and Seniors. www.eventbrite.com USA Brass Ensembles Spring Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Brass Ensembles Spring Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Thursday April 4

Ronnie Milsap Concert 7:30 AM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Ronnie Milsap Concert. www.mobilesaenger.com Gulf Coast Children’s Book Festival 9:00 AM The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 The Gulf Coast Children’s Book Festival will offer author signings, illustrator workshops, storyteller stages, entertainment stages, educational/ informational exhibits, costumed book characters, book sales, a picnic area and more. www.bgcsouthal.org/bookfestival.html

www.mobilebayparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Junior League of Mobile’s 6th Annual Rummage Sale - Peek and Purchase 6:00 PM The Shoppes at Bel Air Mall, Mobile, AL, 36606 Peek and Purchase event - Limited tickets available, Silent auction, live music, food and beverages, Buy Peek & Purchase tickets at the door. The sale will have thousands of bargains, including furniture, bikes, baby clothes, shoes, books, designer purses, jewelry, collectibles, office equipment, even brand new merchandise, and more! Proceeds benefit local community programs sponsored by JLM. www.juniorleaguemobile.org/jubileebargains USA Percussion Ensemble Spring Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Friday April 5

Junior League of Mobile’s 6th Annual Rummage Sale 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air Mall, Mobile, AL, 36606 Find great deals on furniture, housewares, clothing and more! Plus, be on the lookout for new merchandise donated by local stores. www.juniorleaguemobile.org/jubileebargains Little Symphony 2:00 PM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Little Symphony - Students will learn how to play recorders, percussion, and have the opportunity to try a variety of other musical instruments. Parents will need to purchase a recorder, and are encouraged to learn alongside their child. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com

Serve it Up With Love 4:00 PM Copeland Cox Center, 851 Gaillard Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 We welcome you to come on out and support a Great Tournament in our Community. The tournament, which was named Charity Event of the Year by USTA Alabama for 2012, benefits the Mobile Child Advocacy Center. This is money raised is greatly needed to fund services for abused children in our community. This junior tournament is open to girls and boys in age brackets 8-10-12-14-16-18. This event will be U.S.T.A. sanctioned. Each player will receive a signature t-shirt. The school with the most participants will receive a party. serveitupwithlove.com

Urban Emporium’s 2nd Annual Barefoot Ball 7:00 PM Cathedral Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Graze the grilled cheese bar, and enjoy curated activities, which include personalized haiku, cornhole, henna tattoos and a photo booth. Score a VIP ticket for charcuterie, a chance to win a live action event painting and all the bells and whistles the event has to offer! Proceeds from the Barefoot Ball go directly to Urban Emporium, Mobile’s only non-profit retail incubator that houses and trains entrepreneurs to become successful retailers. www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3340986

The Alabama School of the Arts’ Department of Theatre presents “Into the Woods” 7:00 PM Saraland Performing Arts Center, 1115 Industrial Parkway Saraland, AL, 36571 The Alabama School of the Arts’ Department of Theatre presents Into the Woods. A childless baker and his wife attempt to lift their family curse by journeying into the woods, where they meet Rapunzel (and her witchly “mother”), Cinderella, Jack, Little Red Riding Hood and other classic fairy tale characters, where they all must learn the responsibility that comes with getting what you want. Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. umobile.edu/academics/alabama-school-arts/centerfor-performing-arts/performing-arts-series/

Marshall Tucker Band 7:30 AM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Marshall Tucker Band concert. www.mobilesaenger.com

Joe Jefferson Players presents “You Can’t Take It With You” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players presents “You Can’t Take It With You” 251-471-1534 www.joejeffersonplayers.com

Saturday April 6

2019 Infirmary Health Duathlon 8:00 AM Mobile Infirmary, 5 Mobile Infirmary Circle Mobile, AL, 36607 Infirmary Health Duathlon race. infirmaryduathlon.racesonline.com 26th Annual Camellia Classic Open Car Show 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36582 Stroll among hundreds of classic and vintage

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FamilyCalendar automobiles displayed on the Great Lawn at the Mobile Bay Mustang Club’s 26th Annual Camellia Classic Open Car Show. www.bellingrath.org 6th Annual Crepe Myrtle Ride 8:00 AM Arlington Park, 1814 15th St S Mobile, AL, 36615 The mission of this ride is to support the development of the Crepe Myrtle Trail and other multi-use path initiatives in Mobile! www.mobileunited.org NAMI Walks Mobile 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Medal of Honor Park, 1711 Hillcrest Road Mobile, AL, 36609 NAMIWalks Mobile will be held Saturday, April 6th at Medal of Honor Park. It is a family and pet friendly event. There will be plenty of information booths, food, fun activities for the kids and prizes! www.barnesandnoble.com www.Eventbrite.com 5th Annual BIG Walk 9:00 AM Bluegill Restaurant, 3775 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 The BIG Walk is Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama’s largest annual fundraiser and plays a vital role in carrying out our completely donor-supported mission year round. We’ve challenge each Big, mentor, to create a fundraising page and raise at least $500 in celebration of The BIG Walk’s 5th Anniversary. Support a local mentor today. Every dollar counts! Join us in being Defenders of Potential, the potential our Littles have had all along. www.classy.org/campaign/the-big-walk-2019/ c224634 Easter Fun For All 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Christ United Methodist Church, 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Easter Fun for all - Spring Bazaar from 9-3 with crafts, art work and a variety of products for everyone. Family Easter Experience from 10-1 with inflatables, games, food trucks, creative exciting puppet and drama presentation and easter egg hunt. christunited.com Park Day volunteer event at Fort Gaines 9:00 AM 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Fort Gaines will host a Park Day event beginning at [9:00]. Needs include [Painting], Repairs and a local historian will also be available to describe the park’s significance. 251-861-6992 Dauphin Island Discovery Day (Free) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Discovery Day is the Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s open house for the public. Once a year, the public is given a tour of our research facilities to learn about our coastal environment and the research our team is working on. Visitors will learn about the coastal ecosystem we live in and why it’s important to conserve our precious and unique environment. You will also be able to tour the Research Vessel Alabama Discovery. 251-861-2141 www.disl.org Easter Bunny Pictures 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Joe Treadwell Drive Mobile, AL, 36606 The Easter Bunny returns to The Shoppes at Bel Air. Make memories to last a lifetime! www.theshoppesatbelair.com/sales-events/easterbunny-pictures Reading Paws (Free) 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, West Regional Library, 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Come meet the Pet Therapy dogs and their owners. Learn all about the

Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

dogs and the services they provide the community. Practice your reading skills with a four-legged friend. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL, 36576 Enjoy a steam train ride on Dame Ann to meet the Easter Bunny this holiday season! Guests will travel by train to the “Bunny Hutch” and enjoy an egg hunt, crafts, refreshments, a miniature train ride, hayless hay ride, playground and bounce house. Dates: March 23 – April 20 Saturdays and Sundays. www.waleswest.com 2019 Mobtown Mac ‘n Cheese Fest 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 United Cerebral Palsy is excited to introduce the Mobtown Mac ‘n Cheese Fest to Mobile, Alabama. Join us in our endeavor to determine who has the best Mac ‘n Cheese in town! www.ucpmobile.org Mobile Pops Concert (Free) 6:00 PM Dauphin Island Water Tower, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Mobile Pops concert at the Dauphin Island Water Tower. St. Luke’s Wildcat Gala 6:00 PM St Luke’s Episcopal School, 1400 South University Boulevard Mobile, AL, 36609 Wildcat Gala, formerly known as “Cash Bash”, will be April 6th. This year’s theme is “Masquerade Ball.” Email rtait@ stlukesmobile.com. stlukesmobile.com The Alabama School of the Arts’ Department of Theatre presents “Into the Woods” 7:00 PM Saraland Performing Arts Center, 1115 Industrial Parkway Saraland, AL, 36571 The Alabama School of the Arts’ Department of Theatre presents Into the Woods. A childless baker and his wife attempt to lift their family curse by journeying into the woods, where they meet Rapunzel (and her witchly “mother”), Cinderella, Jack, Little Red Riding Hood and other classic fairy tale characters, where they all must learn the responsibility that comes with getting what you want. Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. umobile.edu/academics/alabama-school-arts/centerfor-performing-arts/performing-arts-series/

Sunday April 7

Hope Grows Here 12:30 PM - 4:00 PM, 1047 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 A farmer’s market brunch locally sourced from Baldwin County growers and producers. Benefits USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute Kilborn Clinic in Fairhope. www.usahealthsystem.com/events/hope-grows-here Bunny Hop 2019 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Geri Moulton Children’s Park, 1700 Center Street Mobile, AL, 36604 Bring your Easter basket and hippity-hop to the Bunny Hop where all proceeds will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities. rmhcmobile.org/product/bunny-hop-2019/ Care Carnival - Fundraiser for Woody’s Song 2:00 PM Hayleys Bar, Mobile, AL, 36602 We’ll have an array of carnival style games for all ages, live music, food, drink specials, local artists, incredible prizes, and some of your favorite LoDa employees all set up on the block of Jackson St. between Dauphin St. and St. Francis St.! Game tickets will be FREE but donations are encouraged and appreciated. There will also be a silent auction section with some of the more valuable prizes. ALL proceeds from ticket purchases, silent auction items, and donations will go to Woody’s Song The Alabama School of the Arts’ Department of Theatre presents “Into the Woods” 2:00 PM Saraland Performing Arts Center, 1115 Industrial Parkway Saraland, AL, 36571 The Alabama School of the Arts’ Department of Theatre presents Into the Woods. A childless baker and his wife attempt to lift their family curse by journeying into the woods, where they meet Rapunzel (and her witchly “mother”), Cinderella, Jack, Little Red Riding Hood and other classic fairy tale characters, where they all must learn the responsibility that comes with getting what you want. Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. umobile.edu/academics/alabama-school-arts/centerfor-performing-arts/performing-arts-series/

Monday April 8

Easter Bunny Pictures 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Joe Treadwell Drive Mobile, AL, 36606 The Easter Bunny returns to The Shoppes at Bel Air. Make memories to last a lifetime! www.theshoppesatbelair.com/sales-events/easterbunny-pictures Pet Photos with the Easter Bunny 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Joe Treadwell Drive Mobile, AL, 36606 The Easter Bunny returns to The Shoppes at Bel Air on April 8 and April 15, 2019 for our beloved pet night tradition. Join us in Mobile, AL with your furry (or not so furry) family members for the perfect photo opportunity! www.theshoppesatbelair.com/sales-events/petphotos-with-the-easter-bunny Mobile Pops Concert (Free) 7:00 PM Medal of Honor Park, Mobile, AL, 36609 Mobile Pops concert at Medal of Honor Park. Willie Nelson and Family 7:00 PM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 www.mobilesaenger.com

www.mobilebayparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Tuesday April 9

3rd Annual: Haitian Occasion ($10) 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us for a cultural experience where you will taste authentic Caribbean cuisine - prepared by local chef, Will Hughes - shop our collection of Haitian goods and learn how to help communities in Haiti thrive. www.konbithaiti.org

Brown Bag in Bienville 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Bienville Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Spring has sprung in downtown Mobile! Come out and listen to the soothing Sounds of live jazz as you lunch in Bienville Square around the historic Ketchum Fountain. Catt Sirten sets up live musicians and the City sets up tables for your enjoyment each Wednesday in the Spring. www.ncsmobile.org

Wednesday April 10

Thursday April 11

Word Play 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Word/ Play is a program that encourages children ages 2-5 to create works of art inspired by contemporary children’s literature. 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org Kids Studio (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Kids Studio at Ben May Main Library! Children, ages 3-10 are invited to explore contemporary art, music, and literature through hands-on and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of art. This class is free, open to the public and lead by professional art educators. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Easter Egg Hunt -Springhill Presbyterian 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM, Springhill Presbyterian Church, 10 Westminster Way Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for our Easter Egg Hunt and Food Truck event. shpc.us The Pact Company presents “Guys & Dolls, Jr.” 7:30 PM The Steeple on St Francis Street, 251 St. Francis Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Pact Company presents “Guys & Dolls, Jr.” www.thepactmobile.com USA Woodwind Ensembles Spring Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Woodwind Ensembles Spring Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

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NOW HEAR THIS! REGISTER NOW for GulfQuest Maritime Museum’s Spring and Summer Maritime Academies! Open to students in grades 1-6

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Academy activities include:  STEM components  Art  Music  Exhibits  Guest Speakers

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FamilyCalendar Friday April 12

Dauphin Way United Methodist Church Easter Egg Hunt and Brunch 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Dauphin Way United Methodist Church, 1507 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 36604 You are invited to join us for our 2018 Easter Brunch and Egg Hunt! There will be breakfast, the Easter Bunny and egg hunts for all! Please register for the event. dauphinwayumc.org

LoDA Artwalk 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join downtown art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops as they open their doors and welcome you inside to see beautiful artwork, sample delicious foods and hear the sounds of the LoDa Artwalk. www.ncsmobile.org

Easter at Seward Farms 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Seward Farms, 10836 Tanner Williams Road Lucedale, MS, 39452 Seward farms offers a safe, fun unique egg hunting experience for children ages 1 to 10 years old. The farm will be open from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm or your enjoyment. The Easter Bunny arrives at 11 am at the Farm! Admission includes: Egg Hunt (Ages 1-10), Hayrides, Cow trains, Jumping Pillow, Yee Haw Slide, Funny Farm Golf, Pony Ride (1x), Visit with the Easter Bunny, Play Areas and Much more! www.sewardfarms.com/Seward-farm-Easter.htm

SouthSounds Music Festival 6:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 SouthSounds Music & Arts Festival is the first festival in the country dedicated to showcasing the best emerging and independent Southern music and art. southsoundsfest.com

Saturday April 13

Easter Egg Hunt and Breakfast with the Easter Bunny 8:00 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36528 Bellingrath Gardens and Home invites children of all ages to join us for Breakfast with the Easter Bunny and the annual Easter Egg Hunt on the Great Lawn. www.bellingrath.org Ransom’s Springtime Market 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 North Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 Come join us for Ransom’s Springtime Market from 9am- 5pm on Saturday, April 13th! We’ll have tons of boutiques, direct sales, crafts, and food vendors. We will have pictures with the Easter Bunny, and also a variety of dance teams to perform! www.ransomministries.com The Great Exploreum Easter Egg Hunt 9:00 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 We will be hiding an incredible 10,000 eggs filled with lots of fun prizes for everyone! Not only that but we will have a special appearance by the Easter Bunny and lots of games and prizes to give away. Don’t miss out on one of the most exciting family events of the year. Doors open at 9:00 a.m. Egg Hunt PROMPTLY at 10:00 a.m. Activities/Games: 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. www.exploreum.com

Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

Town of Dauphin Island Easter Egg Hunt 10:00 AM Green Park, 301 Lemoyne Drive Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Town of Dauphin Island Easter Egg Hunt will be held at Green Park at 10:00am. www.dauphinislandchamberofcommerce.com Reading Paws (Free) 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, West Regional Library, 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Come meet the Pet Therapy dogs and their owners. Learn all about the dogs and the services they provide the community. Practice your reading skills with a four-legged friend. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL, 36576 Enjoy a steam train ride on Dame Ann to meet the Easter Bunny this holiday season! Guests will travel by train to the “Bunny Hutch” and enjoy an egg hunt, crafts, refreshments, a miniature train ride, hayless hay ride, playground and bounce house. Dates: March 23 – April 20 Saturdays and Sundays. www.waleswest.com

Saviour: A Modern Oratorio (Free) 7:00 PM Dauphin Way Baptist Church, 3661 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 36608 The Alabama School of the Arts (ASOTA) is happy to bring back this story, beautifully portraying the story of God’s passion for His people. Featuring the ASOTA Choir, Orchestra and soloists, this is an event you do not want to miss. umobile.edu/academics/alabamaschool-arts/center-for-performingarts/performing-arts-series/ “Elixir of Love” - USA Opera & Musical Theatre 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 “Elixir of Love” - USA Opera & Musical Theatre www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

start at 10:30 am. We will have a photobooth setup so you can take pictures with the EASTER BUNNY! All photos are free and will be sent to you via email at a later date, but you are more than welcome to bring your own camera, too! Do you need your soil tested?? We will be testing soil at this event for FREE! Just bring your soil to us for same day results and advice! 251-639-6857

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MPD Chili Cook-Off (Tickets are $5 per person, and free for children 5 and under. Tickets can be purchased at police headquarters (2460 Government Blvd.), MPD Crime Prevention (2407 Airport Blvd.), or at the Downtown Mobile Alliance (261 Dauphin Street). )

Easter Bunny Pictures 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Joe Treadwell Drive Mobile, AL, 36606 The Easter Bunny returns to The Shoppes at Bel Air. Make memories to last a lifetime! www.theshoppesatbelair.com/sales-events/easterbunny-pictures Easter Extravaganza 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Grand Bay Community Center, 11610 Highway 90 Grand Bay, AL, 36541 Parents, bring the children to hunt eggs and meet the Easter Bunny, enjoy some treats, activities and kick off Spring with some family fun. Egg Hunt 10:00 AM Orchard Assembly of God, 10244 Howells Ferry Road Semmes, AL, 36575 We can’t wait to see you at our egg hunt here at orchard. We have so much going on that you will want to make sure you are there early. Come join in us in the fun with thousands of eggs, inflatables, food, face painting and pics with the easter bunny. www.orchardassembly.com First Annual Spring Fling at Woerner Turf & Landscape Supply 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Woerner Turf & Landscape Supply, 8035 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, AL, 36695 Woerner Turf & Landscape Supply is having their first annual Spring Fling event!! Be sure to bring the kiddos! We will have an Easter Egghunt that will

11:30 Cathedral Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 The public is invited to taste the best chili in the city – cooked by Mobile police officers! Proceeds benefit the Mobile Law Enforcement Foundation and MPD Crime Prevention Unit. 251-208-1924

3rd annual Easter Egg Hunt and Family Fun Day 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Langan Park, Mobile, AL, 36608 Join Hustle League Foundation along with Coastal Security and other Local Badges for the 3rd annual Easter Egg Hunt and Family Fun Day Saturday April 13,2019 at Langan Park from 1pm-5pm. A day filled with food, family, fun, and festivities for the kids 251-623-5189 SouthSounds Music Festival Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 SouthSounds Music & Arts Festival is the first festival in the country dedicated to showcasing the best emerging and independent Southern music and art. The Mobile Arts Council is coordinating an arts and crafts market with the SouthSounds Music Festival that will take place on Saturday, April 13th and Sunday, April 14th, surrounding the main music stage in Cathedral Square. This market is free to attend and will feature one-of-a-kind products created by local artisans, as well as live art demonstrations by ceramicists and glassblowers! southsoundsfest.com

Sunday April 14

Back to the Bogue 2019 7:00 AM Chickasabogue Park, 760 Aldock Road Eight Mile, AL, 36613 SAMMBA’s Back to the Bogue 2019 is here! This race is apart of the Gulf South Regional MTB Series. legacy.usacycling.org/register/2019-1307

www.mobilebayparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL, 36576 Enjoy a steam train ride on Dame Ann to meet the Easter Bunny this holiday season! Guests will travel by train to the “Bunny Hutch” and enjoy an egg hunt, crafts, refreshments, a miniature train ride, hayless hay ride, playground and bounce house. Dates: March 23 – April 20 Saturdays and Sundays. www.waleswest.com Easter Bunny Pictures 12:00 PM - 6:30 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Joe Treadwell Drive Mobile, AL, 36606 The Easter Bunny returns to The Shoppes at Bel Air. Make memories to last a lifetime! www.theshoppesatbelair.com/sales-events/easterbunny-pictures The Market at The Pillars 12:00 PM The Pillars, 1757 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36604 Shop Local Farmers, Crafters, Bakers and Makers, Local Eats & Live Music 251-307-5382 Alabama 200 Bicentennial Pre-Easter Celebration 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Bicentennial Park, 51233 Highway 225 Stockton, AL, 36579 Join us for pony rides, easter egg hunt, easter bunny on site, face painting, train rides, hay rides and more. 251-580-1897 SouthSounds Music Festival

Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 SouthSounds Music & Arts Festival is the first festival in the country dedicated to showcasing the best emerging and independent Southern music and art. The Mobile Arts Council is coordinating an arts and crafts market with the SouthSounds Music Festival that will take place on Saturday, April 13th and Sunday, April 14th, surrounding the main music stage in Cathedral Square. This market is free to attend and will feature one-of-a-kind products created by local artisans, as well as live art demonstrations by ceramicists and glassblowers! southsoundsfest.com

Monday April 15

Easter Bunny Pictures 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Joe Treadwell Drive Mobile, AL, 36606 The Easter Bunny returns to The Shoppes at Bel Air. Make memories to last a lifetime! www.theshoppesatbelair.com/sales-events/easterbunny-pictures Spring Break Kids Days 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Various Parks - Mobile, Mobile, AL Spring Break Kids Days will be held in various parks in Mobile from April 15-17. Please call or check our website for more information. 251-208-1550 www.ncsmobile.org Pet Photos with the Easter Bunny 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Joe Treadwell Drive Mobile, AL, 36606 The Easter Bunny returns to The Shoppes at Bel Air on April 8 and April 15, 2019 for our beloved pet night tradition. Join us in Mobile, AL with your furry (or not so furry) family members for the perfect photo opportunity! Dogs and

cats of all shapes and sizes are welcome during our pet photo nights. www.theshoppesatbelair.com/sales-events/pet-photos-with-the-easter-bunny

Exploreum Members. Takes place in the Wharf of Wonders and is for little scientists six years old and younger. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com

Spring Fling for Families! (Free) Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Bring the family to the Library for a fun filled week of all kinds of activities, including movies, stories, games and a Teen Puzzle contest. For more information or a complete schedule of events, please call 580-6144 or email glaffiette@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Spring Break Hangout! (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, West Regional Library, 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Enjoy your time off from school at the Library! We’ll have video games, board games, snacks and More! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday April 16

Spring Break Kids Days 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Various Parks - Mobile, Mobile, AL Spring Break Kids Days will be held in various parks in Mobile from April 15-17. 251-208-1550 www.ncsmobile.org StoryTime: Box Turtle at Silver Pond Lane

(Free) 10:00 AM 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center,

30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at 10am for as we read a story in the theater, followed by arts and crafts. Free, designed for children up to the age of 6 years. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Glow: How to Be the Brightest Version of Yourself (Free) 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Teens, be the best you can be! Join Ms. Ayla Goodson as she shares tips and resources on dealing with bullying, developing love and care for oneself through health and fitness goals that brings out the BEST version of yourself. Ages 13-18. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org USA Guitar Ensemble Spring Concert 5:00 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Guitar Ensemble Spring Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html USA Symphony Band & Wind Ensemble Special Concert 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 USA Symphony Band & Wind Ensemble Special Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html Spring Fling for Families! (Free) Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Bring the family to the Library for a fun filled week of all kinds of activities, including movies, stories, games and a Teen Puzzle contest. For more information or a complete schedule of events, please call 580-6144 or email glaffiette@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wednesday April 17

Spring Break Kids Days 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Various Parks - Mobile, Mobile, AL Spring Break Kids Days will be held in various parks in Mobile from April 15-17. Please call or check our website for more information. 251-208-1550 www.ncsmobile.org Brown Bag in Bienville 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Bienville Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Spring has sprung in downtown Mobile! Come out and listen to the soothing Sounds of live jazz as you lunch in Bienville Square around the historic Ketchum Fountain. Catt Sirten sets up live musicians and the City sets up tables for your enjoyment each Wednesday in the Spring. www.ncsmobile.org USA Steel Band & World Music Ensemble Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Steel Band & World Music Ensemble Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html Spring Fling for Families! (Free) Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Bring the family to the Library for a fun filled week of all kinds of activities, including movies, stories, games and a Teen Puzzle contest. For more information or a complete schedule of events, please call 580-6144 or email glaffiette@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday April 18

Easter Bunny Pictures 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Joe Treadwell Drive Mobile, AL, 36606 The Easter Bunny returns to The Shoppes at Bel Air. Make memories to last a lifetime! www.theshoppesatbelair.com/sales-events/easterbunny-pictures Craft Day with Mr. Butch - Paper Mâche Easter Eggs 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Join Mr. Butch as we make Paper Mâche Easter Eggs. Ages 5 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Taste of Mobile 2019 6:00 PM Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Taste of Mobile is back! This year’s event is going back to the old format at the Mobile Convention Center. Come see the great food and drinks that Mobile has to offer while having tons of fun! Don’t miss the Carnival Cruise raffle sponsored by Visit Mobile! www.facebook.com/TasteofMobile/

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

FamilyCalendar Musical Theatre and Opera Scenes Program 7:00 PM University of Mobile, Weaver Auditorium , 5735 College Parkway Mobile, AL, 36613 A favorite among students and faculty alike in The Alabama School of the Arts, the Musical Theatre and Opera Scenes program is sure to delight everyone. Experience an evening of scenes and storytelling pulled from an array of Musicals and Operas. You may even find yourself singing along with our students as the night progresses. umobile.edu/academics/alabama-school-arts/centerfor-performing-arts/performing-arts-series/ USA Flute Choir and Celtic Crúe Spring Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Flute Choir and Celtic Crúe Spring Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html Spring Fling for Families! (Free) Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Bring the family to the Library for a fun filled week of all kinds of activities, including movies, stories, games and a Teen Puzzle contest. For more information or a complete schedule of events, please call 580-6144 or email glaffiette@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Friday April 19 Little Symphony

2:00 PM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Little Symphony Students will learn how to play recorders, percussion, and have the opportunity to try a variety of other musical instruments. Parents will need to purchase a recorder, and are encouraged to learn alongside their child. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Moonlight Easter Egg Hunt 7:00 PM Pathway Church, Moffett and Airport Locations Mobile, AL Join us for a MOONLIGHT EASTER EGG HUNT with thousands of colorful, candy-filled plastic eggs ready for your children to collect. pathwaychurch.us/mobiles-biggest-easter-egg-hunt

Saturday April 20

Egg Hunt on the Hill 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Spring Hill Baptist Church, 2 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for the Egg Hunt on the Hill with pony rides, inflatables, train rides, face painting crafts, refreshments and more! shbc.cc/event/egg-hunt-on-the-hill/ Dauphin Island Community Easter Egg Hunt 10:00 AM Cadillac Square, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Community Easter Egg hunt will be held at 10:00am in Cadillac Square. www.dauphinislandchamberofcommerce.com Easter in the Square (Free) 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Bienville Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for Free Family Fun on Saturday, April 20, 2019 from 10:30am-12:30pm in Bienville Square. Come enjoy Photos with the Easter Bunny, Children’s Easter Crafts, Kids Karaoke, Balloon Art, Face Painting, Easter Egg Hunt at Noon (ages 8 & younger), Prizes for Best Decorated Wagon or Stroller and Best Costumed Pet. www.downtownmobile.org

Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

EGGStravaganza! (Free) 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Family Fun! Join us in a search for the “prize” egg, create an art project and meet the Easter Bunny! Refreshments will be provided. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Dauphin Island Gumbo Festival ($10) 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Rodeo Site, 531 Lemoyne Drive Mobile, AL, 36528 Attendees can enjoy delicious gumbo, cooking demonstrations, music and other activities. Proceeds will fund an on-island cause. Wales West Cottontail Express 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Wales West, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL, 36576 Enjoy a steam train ride on Dame Ann to meet the Easter Bunny this holiday season! Guests will travel by train to the “Bunny Hutch” and enjoy an egg hunt, crafts, refreshments, a miniature train ride, hayless hay ride, playground and bounce house. Dates: March 23 – April 20 Saturdays and Sundays. www.waleswest.com Easter Bunny Pictures 12:00 PM - 6:30 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Joe Treadwell Drive Mobile, AL, 36606 The Easter Bunny returns to The Shoppes at Bel Air. Make memories to last a lifetime! www.theshoppesatbelair.com/sales-events/easterbunny-pictures Journey To Jesus: An Easter Scavenger Hunt 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Chickasaw United Methodist Church, 108 Lee Street Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Discover the greatest stories of the Bible with this fun, interactive scavenger hunt. Take your chance with games and discover all of the clues. At the end of it all you will discover the greatest treasure of all... Jesus! This FREE, family fun event is for all children through 5th Grade. We will have Games, Prizes, Popcorn, Snow Cones, Bounce Houses and More! 251-452-3461 www.chickasawumc.org Moonlight Easter Egg Hunt 7:00 PM Pathway Church, Moffett and Airport Locations Mobile, AL Join us for a MOONLIGHT EASTER EGG HUNT with thousands of colorful, candy-filled plastic eggs ready for your children to collect. pathwaychurch.us/mobiles-biggest-easter-egg-hunt Easter Egg Hunt South Coast Church 1000 Cody Road South 10am - 1pm. Join us for an Easter Egg Hunt, jump house, games, lunch, prizes and more! Register for this free event at SouthCoastMobile.com. www.SouthCoastMobile.com

Sunday April 21

Easter Sunrise Service - Bellingrath 6:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36582 Sunrise service at Bellingrath Gardens and Home. Easter Sunrise Service at Fort Gaines 6:30 AM Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The service will begin at 6:30 a.m. on the Great Lawn within the walls of Fort Gaines and it is open to everyone in the community. www.dauphinislandchamberofcommerce.com He is Risen! Celebrate Easter with Us Christ United Methodist Church, 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Easter Sunrise at Medal of Honor Park at 7:00am, Traditional Easter Worship at 8, 9:15 and 10:40, Modern Easter Worship at 8, 9:15 and 10:40. christunited.com

Monday April 22

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

Leon Bridges 7:00 PM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Leon Bridges in concert. www.mobilesaenger.com

Tuesday April 23

Little Studio 3:00 PM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Little Studio is a early childhood program at the Exploreum, and will explore the intersections between Art, Creativity, and Science. All supplies for projects are included with the price of admission or membership. Please dress appropriately for art making! 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com 10th Annual Crawfish in the Courtyard 6:00 PM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science , 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 All event proceeds will benefit Discover Science, the Exploreum’s program with the Mobile Housing Board to provide underserved children engaging educational science experiences including IMAX films, lab demonstrations and science camps. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Hope for Healing 6:00 PM Mobile Riverview Plaza, 64 South Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Hope for Healing is an evening where the power of hope and the strength of Victory’s partnerships and supporters join together to save, restore and transform the lives of our neighbors in need. victoryhealth.org/hope-for-healing USA Trumpet Department Studio Recital 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Trumpet Department Studio Recital www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Wednesday April 24

Little Discoveries 10:00 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Included in General Admission for non-members. Free for Exploreum Members. Takes place in the Wharf of Wonders and is for little scientists six years old and younger. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Brown Bag in Bienville 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Bienville Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Spring has sprung in downtown Mobile! Come out and listen to the soothing Sounds of live jazz as you lunch in Bienville Square around the historic Ketchum Fountain. Catt Sirten sets up live musicians and the City sets up tables for your enjoyment each Wednesday in the Spring. www.ncsmobile.org Meet the Author - Alan L. Samry (Free) 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 As a congenital amputee, Alan Samry is comfortable talking openly about his differences and his book, Stump the Librarian: A Writer’s Book of Legs. Among the many topics, Stump the Librarian includes his memoir, personal experiences with limb difference, and several biographies of other amputees, historical and mythical. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

www.mobilebayparents.com

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

Thursday April 25

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

Friday April 26

Heavenly Hog Throwdown 5:00 PM Semmes Community Park, 10410 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 There’ll be music, vendors, food and, of course, barbecue. For information or for vendor or barbecue application, call Donna Brooks, 251-660-4808. 251-660-4808 2019 Mobile Bay Charity Gala 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Abba Shrine Center, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, AL, 36695 This is a BIGTIME Social Fundraiser benefiting 3 local charitable organizations: 1) Abba Shrine, 2) Habitat for Humanity of SW Alabama and 3) West Mobile Rotary Club. Each $25 entry ticket includes, Dinner, Dancing, Socializing, Networking and Raffles with lots of prizes drawn throughout the evening. www.Eventbrite.com

Saturday April 27

Market in the Park for Spring 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Market in the Park on Saturdays April 27 to July 27. www.ncsmobile.org 6th Annual Chickasha Bogue Paddle 8:00 AM 559 North Craft Hwy Chickasaw, AL, 36611 Paddlers will experience the nature and wildlife of the Tensaw River area. events.eventzilla.net/e/6th-annual-chickasha-boguepaddle-2138731924 Fowl River Area Civic Association Springfest/ Pancake Breakfast 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM, Community House, 5401 Fowl River Road Theodore , AL, 36582 Fowl River Area Civic Association Springfest/Pancake Breakfast at the Community House. The event includes a Silent Auction and Bake Sale. Wiggle Waggle Rescue Run 8:00 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36582 Bellingrath Gardens and Home will host the fifth annual Wiggle Waggle Rescue Run on Saturday, April 27. Guests are invited to participate in one of two races: A certified 5K run for humans only starting at 8 a.m. or a 1 mile fun run / walk for dog owners and their pups, which will begin at 9 a.m. Both races will benefit the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF). Best of all, until noon on April 27, dogs are allowed in the Gardens in exchange for a $5 donation to ARF! www.eventbrite.com/e/rescue-run-5k-and-wigglewaggle-walkrun-registration-56400766210 11th Annual Delta Woods and Waters Expo (Free)

9:00 AM 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Featuring a variety of informative presentations, exhibitions and interactive displays by experienced outdoors-

men, professionals, educators and enthusiasts, the Delta Woods & Waters Expo includes numerous fun and exciting hands-on demonstrations which allow attendees to learn and practice new skills with oneon-one instruction. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center 11th Annual Delta Woods and Waters Expo (Free)

9:00 AM 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Featuring a variety of informative presentations, exhibitions and interactive displays by experienced outdoorsmen, professionals, educators and enthusiasts, the Delta Woods & Waters Expo includes numerous fun and exciting hands-on demonstrations which allow attendees to learn and practice new skills with one-on-one instruction. www.deltawoodsandwatersexpo.com 17th Annual St. Francis Episcopal Church Arts and Crafts Festival 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, St. Francis Episcopal Church, 401 Key Street Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The event features more than 50 artists and vendors from Dauphin Island and around the Gulf Coast as well as homemade gumbo, soups and fresh baked goods. www.episcopalchurch.org/parish/st-francis-episcopalchurch-dauphin-island-al Heavenly Hog Throwdown 9:00 AM Semmes Community Park, 10410 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 There’ll be music, vendors, food and, of course, barbecue. 251-660-4808 Thunder on the Bay 2019 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Come celebrate the upcoming 155th Battle of Mobile Bay Sponsored by the 6th Alabama Cavalry and the Alabama Division of Reenactors. Saturday at 2:00 pm will be the Battle of Mobile Bay then at 3:30 a surrender ceremony, on Sunday at 1:00pm will be a Tactical. dauphinisland.org/event/thunder-on-the-bay-2019/ Art & Paddle Peninsula Style 11:00 AM McNally Park, 4380 Park Road Mobile, AL, 36605 For the second straight year, artists of all genres will gather on Mobile Bay’s western shore to share their talents. The FREE family friendly event features special musical performances by Laurie Ann Armour who is back by popular demand and renowned local artist Ryan Balthrop! Joining the fun will be storytellers, poetry. a children’s dance troupe, choirs, a Yoga class, a Martial Arts demo, a Kids’ Circle with Storytelling and Crafts. 3rd Annual Dauphin Island Bicycle Poker Run 12:00 PM - 4:30 PM, Various Locations - Dauphin Island, Dauphin Island, AL This year’s event will be more fun than the last one. We will have some new venues, new ways to get your cards, and a fun surprise to win raffle tickets at the last stop. Each stop will have food and drink specials, and we will have a live band at the last stop. This is a family event, and we encourage children to attend. Please come out and help us raise money and awareness for Share The Beach. Relay for Life 2:00 PM University of South Alabama Track Field, Mobile, AL, 36608 Cheer on Courageous Kids as they walk a survivor lap, Survivor/Caregiver Dinner

Reception, Celebrate with Entertainment, Food and Games and Honor Those We Miss at the Luminaria Ceremony main.acsevents.org

Sunday April 28

Thunder on the Bay 2019 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Come celebrate the upcoming 155th Battle of Mobile Bay Sponsored by the 6th Alabama Cavalry and the Alabama Division of Reenactors. Saturday at 2:00 pm will be the Battle of Mobile Bay then at 3:30 a surrender ceremony, on Sunday at 1:00pm will be a Tactical. dauphinisland.org/event/thunder-on-the-bay-2019/ Taco Takedown 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Mobile Arts Council (MAC) is planning Mobile’s first-ever Taco Takedown –a day filled with tacos, tequila, talent and tons of fun! For the love of tacos and a good time, this new event will highlight local food vendors for their unique take on the versatile taco. mobilearts.org/ Mud Bottom Revival Music Festival 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM, 3619 River Du Chien Mobile, AL, 36693 Attendees are invited to bring picnic blankets, baskets and chairs to enjoy an afternoon of live music in the beautiful outdoor setting under the moss-covered oaks. There will be food available for purchase from a local food truck. www.eventbrite.com/e/5th-annual-mud-bottomrevival-music-festival-tickets-55940782386 Spring Spectacular 7:00 PM Redemption Church, 1251 Industrial Parkway Saraland, AL, 36571 This is an annual favorite for the Center for Performing Arts for students, friends and family. The extravaganza will feature many of the university’s 22 performing ensembles in a concert that closes out the University of Mobile Performing Arts Series season. umobile.edu/academics/alabama-school-arts/centerfor-performing-arts/performing-arts-series/

Saturday April 30

Pancake Breakfast for Wilmer Hall ($6.00) 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Wilmer Hall, 3811 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL, 36608 Please join us for a fun-filled morning of delicious pancakes, Conecuh sausage, Carpe Diem coffee, jumpies, face painting, games, puppies, and more! The Friends of the Mobile Animal Shelter will be here with dogs available for adoption. www.wilmerhall.org

Wednesday May 1

Thursday May 2

Cocktails with the Critters 6:00 PM Bluegill Restaurant, 3775 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 CWC will host its 14th An-

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FamilyCalendar nual fundraiser for the Dauphin Island Sea Lab Foundation. The event will include a silent auction, live music, hors d’oeuvres and beer and wine! Tickets available online at sealabfoundation.org sealabfoundation.org Mercy Me Imagine Nation Tour featuring Crowder and Micah Tyler 7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center , 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL, 36602 MercyMe’s 2019 Imagine Nation Tour will find the group traversing 30+ cities nationwide alongside fellow GRAMMY® nominee Crowder and multiple GMA Dove Award nominee Micah Tyler. 251-208-7906 www.MercyMe.org

Saturday May 4

Influence Fashion Experience 7:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 INFLUENCE will be bringing designers from all over the World to bring you a fashion experience you won’t forget along! Exalte’s mission is to bring Fashion and Philanthropy together and we are proud to be partnering with Bella White, Miss Worldwide Teen Alabama of LOLC (Live Out Loud Charity). LOLC has educated millions of individuals globally on the signs of depression and suicide prevention. www.exaltemagazine.com/Exalte--Events.html

Classes/Meetings APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, 445 Azalea Road. Parent, Youth/Teen Group and Childcare Is Provided. Topic Discussions & ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information please call 251-4602727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@childrensaid.org. Autism Support Group in North Mobile We have a social play room for higher functioning children (4 and up) to engage and relate. The idea is to have a safe place for parents of Autistic children in our community to link up and network with other families. 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Saraland United Methodist Church, 415 McKeough Ave., Saraland. For more info or to RSVP contact Chris Gibson. Email Chrisgibson4149@gmail.com, or 251-281-7312. Breast Feeding Friendly Group (The BFF Group) A place where new moms can get one-on-one breastfeeding help. Get to know other moms within the same community and possibly become a mentor. Breastfeeding professionals are able to provide newborn weight checks before and after feeding to help you to know if your baby is getting enough to eat. Nurses and other medical personnel can answer general questions. All are welcome, even if you haven’t delivered yet. Spouses and other support partners are also welcome. Every Monday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. (Except major holidays). We meet at The Allen Cox Building Conference Room, 205 Lambert Avenue, Mobile. Bridge Support Group The Bridge support group is a place where parents with similar experiences come together to share stories, advice and love. These families have had babies who: were stillborn, born with a lethal anomaly (such as Trisomy 13, Trisomy 18, skeletal dysplasia, anencephaly) or had a baby that only lived in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Our families are from all over the Gulf Coast and all have beautiful stories to tell. 1st Tuesday of every month, 5:30pm-until. Dinner is served. Meets in 1st floor conference room of Strada Center, 1601 Center Street, Mobile. Contact information: Rene Sprague RN, MSN rgilstrapsprague@health.southalabama.edu 251-6105264. Please RSVP if you plan to attend. Circle Of Hope, Sexual Assault Support Group Group meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Call Lifelines Counseling Services to schedule a 30 minute appointment before attending the group 251-

Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

431-5100. COH is a support group for victims of sexual violence to share in their struggles and learn ways to begin to cope with the pain and daily stressors that trigger the hurt. This group is free to attend.

please visit our website at www.providencehospital.org, Women’s Services and click “Childbirth and Breastfeeding Classes. If you have any questions, please email us at maternityservices@ascension.org or call 251-266-1749.

The Family Center The Family Center’s classes in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH minimum 24HOUR RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. All classes provide a certificate of completion. The Family Center of Mobile *Nurturing Parenting course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Call 251-479-5700 to register. *The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. See daily listings for class topics. *Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 weeks. *Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (Four things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. *Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks.251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center classes. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. www.familycentermobile.org or www. Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile.

Spring Hill Medical Center: www.springhillmedicalcenter.com • Better Breathers Support Group Meeting For people with pulmonary disorders. Meets on the fourth Monday of each month. 2-3 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. For more information, call 461-2438. • Breastfeeding Class One Wednesday per month. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Family Center. Benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, going back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation Classes Four consecutive Mondays (6:30-9 p.m.) at The Family Center. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units.Cost: $25 if delivering at Springhill Hospital. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation: Accelerated Course: One Saturday per month. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The Family Center. Ideal for those who live out of town or will be delivering soon. $25. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings: Noon on the First Sunday of the month. Join us for an individualized tour and instruction for siblings ages 9 and younger. The event includes a tour of the maternity areas and tips on helping parents with the new baby. Parents must remain with their children. By Appointment. Call 340-7769. • Infant CPR: Learn this potentially life-saving technique while you are pregnant or soon after your baby’s birth. Covers infant CPR and choking. $5 if delivering at SMC. 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Family Center (Bldg. 2, Fourth Floor). Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Resolve Through Sharing: For parents who have lost a child before or immediately after birth. Meets the fourth Monday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. Call 460-5323.

La Leche League Mobile Bay Area Breastfeeding support meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Meetings are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader. 251-689-2085, amandaLLLmobile@yahoo.com, meghanLLL@yahoo. com, or michelleLLLmobile@yahoo.com. Facebook: La Leche League Mobile Bay Area. Survivors of Suicide Support Group Meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lifelines Counseling Services, 705 Oak Circle Drive, Mobile. SOS is here to provide a supportive and judgement-free environment for you to express yourself and share your story. What can you expect? •A place to find support •A comfortable environment to express yourself •A judgement free environment •Resources for grieving Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, please call childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000. • Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Pre-registration is required; call 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. • Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Gastric Bypass Support Meets every 2nd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia. Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care. Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital offers a variety of classes on Childbirth Preparation. All classes meet in Conference Room 1, (located just inside the front doors in the main lobby of the hospital by the gift shop), unless otherwise specified. Preregistration is required for all classes, and fees are collected in class. To register for classes,

USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1069. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Advanced payment required to secure your reservation. If you are expecting multiples or having a c-section, please call for additional class information. • Preparing for Childbirth: All-day Saturday class for the expectant mother and her support person (coach). Topics include: pregnancy changes, labor, role of the support coach, relaxation and breathing techniques, vaginal and cesarean births, postpartum care, and a tour of the maternity areas. Fee per couple: $30. You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Every other month, 9-2. • Childbirth in a Nutshell: This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets first Tuesday every other month from 6:30-9 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Fee per couple: $15. • Breastfeeding: This one-night class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Class meets second Thursday from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital Fee: $5. Registration Information: Credit card payments are accepted by calling 415-1685. Mail payments for classes to: University of South Alabama, Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Education Department, 1700 Center St., Mobile, AL 36604.

Please send your calendar events to lynn@ mobilebayparents.com. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Hope for the “Me” Generation The “Baby Boom” generation was so anxious to have good relationships with their children that they tended to set aside their primary role as parents. Their desire to be their child’s best friend nurtured the advent of a selfcentered, demanding, “Me Generation” who believes the world revolves around them. But there’s hope!

Parenting in Past Generations — Too Rigid As I’ve grown older, I see more with the eyes of my heart than I do with those on each side of my big nose. And the aging process has brought me to a greater understanding of my own mom and dad’s parenting style. I’ve learned that things really weren’t as bad as I used to think they were. My dad, like yours, was less than relational; his focus was on providing for his family. Working at the same job for 38 years; providing was his way of showing love for his family. He demanded respect. He taught us to be responsible because that’s the way he was taught, and he wanted us to live the same way. My father worked hard because he grew up during the Great Depression, and he knew first-hand the challenges of having little to live on. He also saw to it that our family was protected. Food was always on the table, a roof was always over our head, we all went to college, and the enemy he fought in the South Pacific never marched on our homeland.

Parenting in Today’s Generation — Too Relational Then, the 60’s and 70’s came along. Some called it a revolution. Millions of “Baby Boomers” fell head over heels toward relationships and feelings of love for all mankind. Our music and lifestyle expressed our desire for universal peace and love. We swooned to lyrics like “all you need is love,” and “smile on your brother; everybody get together; try to love one another right now.” There was a “whole lotta’ love” going around. And we “showered the people we

love with love… showing them the way that we feel.” Then we took our desire for peace, love and affection right into our parenting style. Baby boomers as parents focused on maintaining peace and love, at all costs. We were determined to have better, stronger relationships with our kids than we had with our parents; carrying out these normally good and healthy desires to an extreme. Out of financial abundance, we gave our kids everything they ever wanted, and more. Modern conveniences allowed for more free time and less responsibility. Soccer moms equipped with minivans shuttled kids from one event or activity to another, with stops at McDonald’s in-between. We indulged, spoiled and provided too much “stuff” as misguided expressions of our love.

But Good Relationships Are Good, Aren’t They? What’s wrong with too much love? Nothing! But there is something wrong with it if it is our only focus. To put it bluntly, placing kids on a pedestal and focusing our lives on them created feelings of entitlement. Kids began equating our love with our pocket book and our willingness to do things for them. Their thrills in life came from getting new toys, new clothes, new honors, and new excitements. They became demanding, selfish, adrenalin junkies, searching daily for new thrills. When the excitement ended or the money train slowed, they became angry. We wanted to be the best parents ever, but the more we focused our attention and our money on our kids, the more they fell into anxiety, depression, and outright defiance. After all, they wouldn’t admit it, but deep down they were terrified for what they would do after they left the comforts and indulgences of home. Perhaps you have a teenager fitting this description living in your home right now? The crux of the matter is that it is hard to be a good parent when our focus is on having peace, love and friendship with our children. This becomes especially difficult in step-families and some adoptive families. The crucial role of correcting and holding children accountable is impossible when our overriding concern is to avoid any form of damage to our friendship. But 63

what we need to realize is that our children need parents first, not more friends. So, the big question is this: How do parents establish their position of authority, while also maintaining their relationship with their teen? In other words, how do we find a proper balance without swinging the pendulum too far the other way? Tell your teenager… “I desire to stand beside you and walk with you in life… but make no mistake; I will stand in front of you when I need to.”

Parenting the Right Way – Balanced A simple answer is to say things like “No” and “Maybe” more often; and we need to apply boundaries and consequences when our kids cross over the line. Balanced parenting is applying strength when needed; and tenderness at the same time. It is not just one or the other, it is both. The essence of balance in parenting is to stand beside our children and walk with them through life, while also determining to stand in front of them when we need to stop them from their foolish ways. Our goal should be to help our kids get to where they want to be, and keep them from going to a place they really don’t want to end up. But since they are too immature to know any better, we need to remain in control, no matter how upset it makes them temporarily. Then, as they mature in their thinking, the reins can be gradually released. Believe me, your kids will express their appreciation when they are older for holding them in line as teenagers, and they’ll realize that you did it out of love, not to be mean or rigid. It’s never too late to start being a balanced parent; have a loving relationship, while also holding them responsible. Your children need your correction, wisdom, and willingness to help them travel the path of life before them. Yes, your teen needs a parent and a friend, but when push comes to shove, they need a parent more. 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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Captain Marvel

Apollo 11

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: D+ Sexual Content: AProfanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ “You have a mission. Serve well and with honor.” So the Supreme Intelligence (Annette Bening) that rules the Kree civilization tells Vers (Brie Larson), a young fighter who is anxious to prove herself. Vers is a powerful combatant, but shadows of a past life she can’t remember haunt her dreams and she struggles to control her feelings. Vers’ commanding officer (Jude Law) includes her on their next mission which involves extracting a spy from a dangerous planet. But the mission is a set-up, the team is ambushed, and Vers is abducted by the Skrull – shapeshifting aliens at war with the Kree. Her kidnappers forcibly try to extract memories from her brain. Although they don’t get the information they are looking for, the memories start coming back, bringing emotions with them. As superhero movies go, Captain Marvel has a pretty decent (if somewhat predictable) story. It’s a bit tedious at the start with ponderous, stilted dialogue but once the characters go on the move the story picks up, and it kicks into high gear when the action reaches earth. As for content, parents will be pleased with the virtually non-existent swearing, drinking, and sexual content. The downside is that is that the film is chock-full of violence. Captain Marvel is basically an uninterrupted two hours of fighting, shooting, and blasting, with brief pauses for dialogue, the occasional joke, and (possibly) for the actors to take a breather. Given the level of violence in this movie, the PG-13 rating is merited and we do not encourage parents to take younger children to watch it.

MPAA Rating: G Overall: A Violence: A Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: ASitting in a capsule with only 218 cubic feet of space, 363 feet above the marshy Floridian landscape, Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins prepare to make history. Once they ignite their rocket engines, they will burn 20 tons of fuel per second and produce 7.5 million pounds of thrust to break free of Earth’s orbit. This moment is familiar to anyone with an interest in space travel. However, NASA shot a lot more footage over the eight days of the Apollo 11 mission. In this riveting documentary film, director Todd Douglas Miller worked with NASA and a post-production studio to restore this footage and provide a previously unseen perspective on the mission that sent the first man to the moon. By sticking entirely to historical footage, with no added interviews or commentary, Todd Douglas Miller has created an amazingly immersive view of the mission. With Apollo 11’s G-rating, there’s virtually nothing for parents to be concerned about. That said, parts of the movie can be very loud and intense, and very young or sensitive children might be frightened. As a massive space nerd, I’d recommend this to everybody. The jaw-dropping footage of the various modules docking and ejecting in space is worth the price of the ticket on its own. However, the film is also absolutely compelling in disproving any such conspiracies and includes an incredible wealth of detail and sublime beauty in almost every scene. And hey, if nothing else, you’ll probably learn something. It’s not every day you get an educational film as gorgeous as this one. See this movie, and see it on the largest screen you can find!

Five Feet Apart

Wonder Park

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: B+ Sexual Content: BProfanity: D Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ Seventeen-year-old Stella (Haley Lu Richardson) is doing everything she possibly can to control her cystic fibrosis (CF), a genetic disease which is destroying her lungs and will eventually kill her. She conscientiously remains six feet apart from friend and fellow hospital patient, Poe (Moises Arias), lest they share their respiratory tract bacteria and worsen their diseases. Then Stella meets Will (Cole Sprouse), the handsome bad boy on the CF ward, and the two fall for each other. But Will isn’t just another CF patient: he’s been infected by a bacteria known as B. cepacia, which has removed him from the lung transplant waiting list. Getting close to Will could not only make Stella sicker; it could permanently disqualify her from the lung transplant she so desperately needs. Given this premise, I expected Five Feet Apart to be a depressing movie. That it isn’t is due to the character of Stella, a young woman of such courage, resilience, humor, and grace that she would light up any film. Stella still struggles with fear, grief, anger, rebellion, and loss, but her unfailing hopefulness not only buoys her up, it also changes Will. That’s not to say the movie isn’t sad. It ticks all the boxes in the “teen weepy” genre. Because the characters can’t get close to each other, there is no actual sex. But there is plenty of non-explicit talk about sex (straight and gay) and a scene where Stella and Will strip down to their underwear and stare yearningly at each other. Aside from the sexual content, parents will want to be aware of the 21 profanities in the movie and a scene where teens drink champagne to celebrate an 18th birthday.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: A Sexual Content: A Profanity: A+ Alcohol / Drug Use: A June (Brianna Denski) and her mother (Jennifer Garner) have a fantastic game: they’re building an imaginary amusement park! June dreams up the rides and attractions for Wonder Park, along with a cute cast of animals who staff the park, and her mother makes them real by whispering them into Peanut’s ear, a stuffed chimpanzee who brings them to life with his magic marker. At least, that’s how it works in June’s imagination. Really, she and her family spend hours working together to build functioning models of the rides in their home. However, when June’s mom gets sick and has to go to a distant hospital for a little while, June packs up the park and spends her time worrying about everything from her mother to the tripping hazard posed by loose golf balls. Even her good friend Banky can’t snap her out of it. But when she finds the real park gates hidden in the forest, June realizes that abandoning Wonder Park has had consequences that reach further than she anticipated. This is definitely a movie geared at young kids, and the ones at the showing I attended seemed to be having a great time. Parents might have a little less to chew on, but the movie is so heartfelt and sincere that it doesn’t feel like much of a slog (helped by the fact that the runtime is under an hour and a half). I’m very surprised that this film didn’t earn a “G” rating. Despite its PG rating, Wonder Park is far and away the single most family friendly film I have ever reviewed. Not only does the film lack offensive content, it actively promotes strong messages about friendship and teamwork, as well as the importance of creativity and the seriousness of mental illness. Wonder Park provides a good time for the whole family.

Mobile Bay Parents I April 2019

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Using a lead-safe certified renovation contractor is the law. Home repairs that create even a small amount of lead dust are enough to poison your child and put your family at risk. Make sure you renovate right with a contractor that is Lead-Safe Certified.

For more information, visit alabamapublichealth.gov/lead or call 1-800-819-7544