Eastern Shore Parents Summer Fun Issue (June 2025)

Thrill rides, waterparks, coastal lodging options, and a free entertainment district–it’s all here, at OWA Parks & Resort!

Who

If you’re

Choose

Publisher’sNote

Now that summer is finally here, what are you most excited about? For many families, it’s the slower pace (unless you’re deep in the travel ball circuit!). For others, it’s the chance to fill the calendar with fun activities. No matter which camp you fall into, summer often brings a unique kind of pressure. Suddenly, we’re expected to become our family’s cruise director, which can be even more stressful than the school year!

So, how do we find that balance between enjoying downtime with our kids while also keeping them entertained? Sure, we can fill their schedules with camps and organized activities—but is that what’s best for them? Unstructured play is just as important. It fosters creativity, independence, problemsolving, and social skills. Letting kids build forts, ride bikes, or invent their own games gives them the freedom to explore and learn at their own pace. In fact, stepping back and letting them take the lead can be better for everyone, parents included! For more ideas on how to strike that balance, check out I’m Not the Entertainment, but I Still Want to Have Fun by Rebecca Hastings.

Here on the Gulf Coast, having summer fun is easy—after all, there’s no shortage of things to do! We’re excited to share our annual Summer Fun Activity Guide, packed with boredom busters and memory-makers to keep your family active and happy all summer, rain or shine.

Kids aren’t the only ones who need time to unwind and connect with friends. Just as our children need meaningful friendships, we, as parents, need our own support systems, too. Whether your community comes from neighbors, church, or activities, finding your group can make a big difference. If you’ve recently moved, started a new job, or are parenting kids in different life stages, building those connections can take more effort, but it’s worth it. Sarah Lynons offers great insight in this month’s feature, The Importance of Connecting with Your Community.

And speaking of parents, last month, we had the joy of celebrating all the amazing moms and mother figures in our lives. This month, it’s time to lift up the dads and father figures! Father’s Day is about showing them how much they mean to us, whether through a thoughtful gift, a warm hug, or a few heartfelt words. For fun inspiration, check out 10 Fun and Creative Ways to Celebrate Dad, by Rebecca Hastings.

As we officially kick off summer break, I would like to wish everyone a spectacular summer filled with great family time, whether it is just playing games at the house or big vacation adventures. To all the dads and father figures, Happy Father’s Day!

Lynn

lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Eastern Shore Parents Magazine, is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging,

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com

Research Editor Lucy Green

Contributing Writers

Kristi Bush, LSW

Rebecca Hastings Gabriele Jones

Sarah Lyons

Dave Ramsey

Robert L. Rux, M.D. Works of Wonder Therapy, LLC

Cover Photography

Jenn Glies Photography www.jenngliesphotography.com

President Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com

Advertising Opportunities

Lynn Knighton ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099

Ad Design

Tim Welch

Web Content Manager

Anna Watson

Eastern Shore Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 374, Montrose, Alabama, 36559. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 929-2099.

Eastern Shore Parents is copyrighted 2025 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Eastern Shore Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

Works

The Power of Presence Over Screens

I’ve spent many years in education, beginning as a math teacher at a prestigious private school. As a military spouse and graduate student, my career saw numerous transitions, taking me in and out of the classroom between 1999 and 2019. While much has changed over two decades, one thing remains the same—the steady decline in students’ social, emotional, language, and academic skills. I witnessed it firsthand as a teacher and continue to see it now as a counselor and behavior analyst. Seasoned educators echo the same concern, reinforcing that this is a widespread issue. As parents, we must recognize that lowering expectations is not the solution. Instead, we need to address the root causes and equip students with the skills they need to succeed.

they previously did. This terrifying truth caused the Centers for Disease Control to alter the developmental milestones checklist in 2022. For example, the standard set in 2004 stated that children should be saying 50 words at 24 months of age. The new standard is 50 words at 30 months of age. Six months may not seem very long, but in regards to early child development, six months is significant.

There are several possible causes for this decline: exposure to toxins, trauma, and nutritional deficits. Those may contribute in some ways, but I posit that the environmental stressor of constant access to handheld screens is the most plausible explanation.

creation in 1992, constant accessibility has reshaped how we interact. Instead of focusing solely on why developmental delays are increasing, the crucial question is: what actions can we take to improve the situation?

The solution to this developmental delay dilemma is to fully accept that we, as the adults, are responsible for teaching the children every skill they need to learn. That means that we must begin walking away from our televisions, ignoring the texts, choosing not to return the emails, and instead spend our time teaching skills to the next generation. Every challenge a child faces stems from a skill deficit. A meltdown when leaving the playground signals difficulty with smooth transitions. Anxiety about ordering food reflects a lack of confidence in speaking to strangers. Disrespect when upset indicates a struggle with maintaining calm conversations in distress. By recognizing these gaps, we can help children build the skills they need to navigate these situations successfully.

What do I mean when I say “decline in social, emotional, language, and academic skills of students?” Our children are not demonstrating the same level of skills at the ages

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

To support your child’s development, start by reducing their screen time. However, parental screen use also plays a significant role in children’s skill development, a factor we often overlook. Since the first smartphone’s

Children learn through exposure, practice, and repetition. But when we’re consumed by our screens, we miss crucial teaching moments. Set aside the phone, shut the laptop, and create real-life opportunities for children to develop the skills they need to thrive.

SUMMER CAMP

At Kidcam Camps, Summer is Simpli ed!

Say goodbye to juggling schedules and piecing together programs.

Build a summer that’s trusted, simple, and stress-free.

Choose only the weeks you need from one week to nine.

Extended Hours & Sibling Discounts

Weekly activities promote fun, tness, friendship and creativity. Campers celebrate a di erent theme each week with sports, creative arts, STEM, team building games, life skills, talent shows, swimming and more. Campers enjoy the Amusement & Water Park & Movie Theater at o -peak times, but at Kidcam, we incorporate so many more traditional day camp activities.

May 27th - August 1st

Ages 5-13

*Note: Campers must be 5 or older before attending Kidcam Camp @ OWA.

*As low as $176 per week when purchasing 3+ weeks before May 15.*

1501 S OWA Blvd. Foley, AL 36535 Now based in the air-conditioned Paula Deen building of Downtown OWA.

Distinguished Young Women National Finals

Distinguished Young Women, the nation’s oldest and largest scholarship program for high school girls, is proud to announce the upcoming National Finals will be held June 26–28, 2025, in Mobile, Alabama. The event will welcome 50 outstanding young women from across the country to compete for over $150,000 in college scholarships and the opportunity to represent Distinguished Young Women as the National Representative. Now in its 68th year, the Distinguished Young Women National Finals is a celebration of scholarship, leadership, and talent. Participants have advanced through local and state programs to reach the national stage, where they will be evaluated in five categories: Scholastics, Interview, Talent, Fitness, and Self-Expression.

The three-night event will take place at the Saenger Theater in Mobile, culminating in the announcement of the 2025 Distinguished Young Woman of America on Saturday, June 28.

“This program is about so much more than a title,” said Carole Hegwood, Executive Director of Distinguished Young Women. “It’s about helping young women grow into confident leaders with a sense of purpose and the tools to make a difference in their communities.” Since its founding in 1958, Distinguished Young Women has awarded over $120 million in scholarships, impacted countless lives, and empowered young women to pursue excellence in all they do.

Tickets and Streaming Information: Tickets for National Finals are available now at www.distinguishedyw. org. For those unable to attend in person, all three nights will also be streamed live on the organization’s website.

Sixth Annual ACCF Masquerade Ball

9th Annual Corn Festival

Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen’s Market is excited to host the 9th Annual Corn Festival the day before Father’s Day, June 14 from 9a.m. to 2 p.m. The festival will feature all your favorite vendors, a corneating contest, and tons of activities for the kids. The Corny Dad Cook-Off will also be returning. Three local cooks, who also happen to be dads, will compete to see who has the best dish that features corn as the main ingredient. 200 lucky members of the public will get to taste each dish and vote for their favorite.

Come check out all the incredible options our vendors have to offer. From seafood to farm fresh produce to delicious baked goods to artisan crafted treasures there’s something for everyone at CAFFM. If you would like to be a vendor, please contact Alescia at 251-709-4469.

19th Annual Pirates Cove Autism FUNraiser

The Anchor Cross Cancer Foundation will host its 6th Annual ACCF Masquerade Ball at the Daphne Civic Center from 6pm-10pm, June 14, 2025. Supporters and community members from across the Gulf Coast are invited to help us “mask out” cancer for one night at this fundraising event, as we celebrate local cancer survivors and those still fighting. Last year’s event saw a tremendous increase in participation and raised over $75,000, with all of the proceeds benefiting local cancer patients in Mobile and Baldwin Counties. This is going to be a night to remember for all who attend. Sponsorships, tickets and more info available at anchorcrossfoundation.org/masquerade-ball. All attendees/guests must be 21 years of age, or older.

ACCF is a community-based 501(c)3 nonprofit that provides financial assistance to local cancer patients currently receiving treatment.

High Hopes for Autism is very excited for the 19th annual Pirates Cove Autism FUNraiser and asking our community to join us in making it happen. It’s set for July 26 and 27, 2025, at Pirates Cove in Josephine, AL. This two-day event raises funds for High Hopes 4 Autism in Elberta, AL, to provide critical support for local families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental delays. Weekend Passes are $100 and available online at highhopes4autism.org/funraiser, Pirates Cove, and some amazing volunteers. Each pass admits one person to the FUNraiser all weekend—just show it at the gate. The weekend pass gives you a chance to win a 2025 Jeep Wrangler: Blue Passes qualify you for Saturday’s award (dark green Jeep), Yellow Passes for Sunday’s (bright green Jeep), with a limit of 750 participants per day. Two Jeeps will be awarded—one each day. Day passes will be available at the gate during the event for $10, there is no charge for under 16. Day passes will be eligible to be entered to win smaller prizes, such as High Hopes support gear, and possible gift cards. Under 16 without passes do not qualify to win prizes. Thank you for your continued support of High Hopes 4 Autism—it truly helps our local families.

Thomas Hospital Auxiliary Welcomes Junior Volunteers

Thomas Hospital welcomes the 50 students from Baldwin County Virtual High School, Baldwin Preparatory Academy, Bayshore Christian School, Bayside Academy, Daphne High School, Fairhope High School, Gulf Shores High School, Spanish Fort High School, St. Michael Catholic High School, St. Paul’s Episcopal School and UMS-Wright Preparatory School who are participating in the Thomas Hospital Auxiliary’s Junior Volunteer program this summer.

They are volunteering in the Cardiac Rehab, Cardiovascular/ Telemetry/Progressive Care Unit (2 North), Cath Lab, Clinical Education, Colony Rehabilitation Hospital, Endoscopy, Fairhope Surgery Center, Fitness Center, Gift Shop, Medical Unit (2 South), Physical Therapy, Post-Surgical Unit (3 North), Radiology, Same Day Surgery, Surgery, Surgery Waiting Area, and Women’s and Children’s Unit (4 South) at Thomas Hospital.

The Thomas Hospital Auxiliary’s Junior Volunteer program is offered to high school students between the ages 14 to 17 who maintain at least a B average and have an interest in volunteering at the hospital during the summer. The program runs from June 2 to July 25. “This is a great opportunity for our area high school students to observe and learn about health careers,” Melita W illkie, manager of volunteer services at Thomas Hospital, said. “We look forward to offering them a wonderful place to volunteer and the opportunity to provide a valuable service to their community.”

Pictured are Thomas Hospital Junior Volunteers (in alphabetical order) Gianna Barfield, Justin Barfield, Madi Bellew, A.J. Blakney, Jr., Angelina Boalos, Luiza Bouriche, Victoria Chambers, Maggie Christian, Addy Copeland, Rianna Desai, Elizabeth Evans, Murphy Freeman, Sara Garlock, Emma Gaskins, Ryen Gedeon, Ramey Haley, Rowan Harrison, Amelia Hicks, Michael Howard-Blocker, Olivia Jernigan, Kaitlyn Jones, Sam Kokoszka, Wells Lambert, Manu Langi, Kathy Luna, Nora Malone, Connor McCline, Lucy McDade, Louise Megginson, Aaron Norton, Prina Patel, Braegan Popee, Amanda Rodriguez, Eloisa Rodriguez, Addie Silvernail, Marley Singleton, Blake Strickland, Jackson Strunk, Chandler Thomas, Trinity Turnbow, Violet Turner, Martina Venegas, Brooklyn Voiles, Charlie Williamson, Emerson Willkie, Reece Campbell Wilmott, Jenessa Wilson, Natalie Wingate and Austen Yang. Auna Gibson is not pictured.

USS ALABAMA Crewmates 2025-2026

The USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park is pleased to announce the selection of the 2025-2026 USS ALABAMA Crewmates. These young women will serve as ambassadors for Battleship Memorial Park for the coming year.

The USS ALABAMA Crewmates will be awarded a $2,000 scholarship to the college or university of their choice. At the end of their year of service, Miss USS ALABAMA and Miss USS DRUM will be named. These two young women will receive an additional $1,000 and $500 scholarship respectively.

Our 2025-2026 USS ALABAMA Crewmates:

Elizabeth Barber, age 19. Elizabeth attends University of Mobile where she is a sophomore majoring in Nursing. She is the daughter of Steven and Ann Barber.

Margaret Kohnen, age 19. Maggie attends Springhill College where she is a freshman majoring in Nursing. She is the daughter of Paul and Tetchie Kohnen.

Amy Claire Lankford, age 20. Amy Claire attends the University of Mobile where she is a junior majoring in Business Management. She is the daughter of Dewayne and Valenda Lankford. Madison McNew, age 20. Madison attends the University of South Alabama where she is a sophomore majoring in Nursing. She is the daughter of Patrick McNew and Stacy Guy.

Bailey Polk, age 19. Bailey attends the University of Mobile where she is a freshman majoring in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. She is the daughter of Bobby and Stacy Polk. Camryn Waite, age 19. Camryn attends Springhill College where she is a freshman majoring in Biology, Pre-Health. She is the daughter of Steven and Kellie Waite.

For more information on the USS ALABAMA Crewmate Program, please call Lynne Price at 251-438-2834, or email lprice@ussalabama.com.

Impact 100 Baldwin County Reveals $564,000 to be Awarded in Grants

At its 2025 “Big Reveal” at Oak Hollow Farm, Impact 100 Baldwin County announced they will award six $94,000 grants in the fall to nonprofits serving Baldwin County. Totaling $564,000, these grants will fund programs that make a difference in the quality of life for residents of this region.

Each year, Impact 100’s grants are given in direct relation to the number of members who join or renew their membership. The more members, the larger the amount of grants given. Thanks to Impact donors, every dollar of a member’s $1,000 contribution goes directly in the grant pool. The membership drive, which concluded March 31, led to over 554 Baldwin County women joining or rejoining.

“Impact 100 Baldwin County made history this membership year (2025) with over 554 total members, which includes a record-breaking number of 119 new members!” said Impact 100 Baldwin County President Nancye Wolfe. “We are incredibly grateful to our members, new and returning, who make it possible for Impact 100 to continue its mission to transform the lives in Baldwin County by awarding high impact grants.”

Impact 100 Baldwin County is in its 18th year of grant making. The organization was established in 2008 by Irene Meehan, who had read about similar organizations in Cincinnati and Pensacola. That year, 82 members joined, and Impact 100 awarded a single grant of $82,000. Since then, this all-volunteer women’s philanthropic organization has distributed over $5.9- million, soon to be over 6.5 million in grants in Baldwin County.

Grants are awarded in the five focus areas of Arts, Culture & Recreation; Education; Environment & Preservation; Family; and Health & Wellness. Nonprofits have until May 15th to submit their letters of intent, and June 5th is the deadline for submitting grant applications. Impact 100 members volunteer to serve in groups to evaluate the grant applications and select finalists, with the entire membership voting to select the five grant recipients at the Evening of Impact event October 21st.

For more information, visit www.impact100BaldwinCounty.org.

“I come from a family of educators who inspired my passion for teaching,” shared Autumn Ford, Kindergarten teacher at J. Larry Newton Elementary in Fairhope. Her grandfather, grandmother, and mother are all well-rooted in the Baldwin County teaching community, which made her decision to become an educator an obvious one.

Autumn graduated from the University of Alabama in 2022 with her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. The next year, she immediately followed that with a Master’s degree in Elementary Education. She is currently continuing her graduate education to earn her Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Elementary Education.

“I would describe my teaching style as engaging and student-centered. I believe in seizing every opportunity to make learning meaningful and exciting for my students. I focus on recognizing the individuality of each student while building a strong sense of community within our classroom,” said Autumn.

Autumn incorporates a lot of singing and dancing in her classroom to help engage her students. She goes on to share that all the movement and music create an energetic and joyful vibe in her classroom. In turn, her students create meaningful connections to their lessons.

Autumn Ford

J. Larry Newton Elementary

One of Autumn’s most memorable moments in her last three years was when a student shared how they remembered the songs they sang in class and how she made every student feel like they mattered.

“Moments like that remind me that teaching is about creating a lasting impact on a child’s heart and helping them believe in themselves,” she said.

Being nominated for the Eastern Shore Teacher of the Month award is a huge honor for Autumn and one she says is grateful to receive.

It is a reminder that the long days, hard work, and heart she puts into teaching truly matter and make an impactful difference.

“More personally, it makes me feel like I’m making my parents and former teachers proud by continuing my grandparents’ legacy of dedication to education and service to the community,” reflected Autumn. “All their influences shaped who I am as a teacher, and knowing they would be proud of the educator I am becoming, which makes this recognition even more meaningful. It’s not just an award for me; it’s a celebration of the people who paved the way for me to be here. “

Autumn Ford is the proud dog mom of Pepper and Onyx and has a passion for the arts. She loves to sing, dance, and play the saxophone.

Fairhope High IB Signing Day

Class of 2025 IB Signing Day! Our Fairhope High School seniors received their “state”ments adorned with the battle cry of their college and signed a ceremonial letter of intent. We are so excited for these 17 IB candidates and we wish them luck on the remainder of their IB exams!

Christ the King Celebrates New Pope

CTK was bursting with excitement as white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of our new pope! This is a truly monumental moment in Church history, and we rejoice as the first American pope has been chosen: Pope Leo XIV.

Bayside Academy Students Win Baldwin County

Soil &

Water Conservation

District Poster Contest

Bayside Academy congratulates its 2025 winners for the Baldwin County Soil and Water Conservation District Program Conservation Stewardship Poster & Essay Contest. This year’s theme was “Home is Where the Habitat Is.” Each of our winners submitted an outstanding graphic poster for the contest, which is open to all public, private, and homeschool students in Baldwin County.

2025 Bayside Academy Winners

Mary Helen Williams ’28 – First Place Garrek Snell ’26 – Second Place

Billy Neill ’26 – Third Place

Congratulations to these talented students!

Pictured: Bayside Academy students Garrek Snell ’26, Mary Helen Williams ’28, and Billy Neill ’26 hold their trophies and winning artwork.

Spanish Fort High Red Ribbon Coordinators

Celebrated

Seniors Molly Burks and Morgan

Robinson were honored last night at the Superintendents’ Red Ribbon Leadership Program Celebration for their service projects as Red Ribbon Coordinators. What an accomplishment for these distinguished young ladies!

Robertsdale High Student Receives Top Honors for Artwork

Congratulations to Robertsdale High School’s Fanny Cardenas! Fanny has received top honors for her artwork, “In Service and Sacrifice,” in the VFW Auxiliary Art Contest! Her piece won 1st place at the local Atmore Auxiliary level and was then selected as one of only two entries to represent the state in the statewide competition.

Now, her artwork has been sent to Lexington, MO to compete at the national level! Fanny has already earned scholarship awards for her local and state victories, and she is now in the running for the national scholarship prize of $15,000!

Let’s all cheer her on as she competes at nationals—she’s thrilled and so deserving of this recognition!

Bayshore Christian School Logic Cotillion

The Bayshore Christian School Logic students had a wonderful time at the annual Logic Cotillion! It was a beautiful evening filled with laughter, dancing, and sweet moments of fellowship. Thank you to everyone who helped make this special night one to remember!

Bay Minette Middle School Art Show

The artwork of students from Bay Minette Middle School was on display at the Spring Art Show at the school. The gym lobby was filled with the beautiful artwork of many talented art students. The art teacher is Ms. Kenzie Acton. Congratulations to the Stu on a wonderful art show.

Loxley Elementary Project Jubilee

The Project Jubilee students at Loxley Elementary School have worked on making movies that showed value in some way this past quarter. Recently, we held a red carpet event and invited family members to view the movies. We had a great turn out, and the students were so happy to show off their hard work. Thank you to everyone who was able to make it to the premiere. It was a great event!

Daphne Middle Students of the Month

Please join us in congratulating the Daphne middle School students of the month: Lundyn (8th grade) and Kyran (7th grade) ! Keep up the great work Trojans!

Elberta Middle School Students of the Month

Congratulations to our final students of the month for this school year— Rylee Stewart and Kyle Merced. Elberta Middle School is proud of you!

Spanish Fort Middle Conversations Contest Winners

Congratulations to the Spanish Fort Middle School Winners of the Baldwin County Conservation Contest

1st Place - Andrew Hancock

2nd Place - Evan Shaner

3rd Place - Layla Traweek

Honoring Friendliness at J. Larry Newton!

Last month at J. Larry Newton School, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on students who were nominated by their teachers for showing exceptional friendliness to others. Thank you to Mr. Gene’s Beans and Texas Roadhouse for helping us celebrate our students!

Florence B Mathis Leaders of the Month

Florence B Mathis Elementary School celebrated their April Leaders of the Month recently! Way to go leaders!

Foley High Students of the Month

Congratulations to the Foley High School April Students of the Month! 12th GradeJasmine Goff 11th GradeJeffry Zuniga 10th GradeRashaud Roberston 9th GradeDakota Howell

Blue Angels Third Grade Field Trip for Daphne Elementary

Third grade students from Daphne Elementary School enjoyed visiting the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, FL. Students were so excited to view the Blue Angels flight demonstrations behind the museum. They were also able to tour the museum to discover historic aircraft and artifacts representing Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard Aviation.

Bayshore Christian School Enjoys Spring Formal

Bayshore Christian School’s Spring Formal was a beautiful evening of dancing, tradition, and fellowship for the junior and senior classes. Dressed in elegant gowns and sharp suits, students filled their dance cards and gracefully waltzed, foxtrotted, and twirled the night away. More than just a formal event, the evening stood as a testament to the values Bayshore holds dear—community, character, and the joy of shared experiences rooted in purpose and tradition. It was a night that will live on in the hearts of these young men and women long after the final song played.

Fairhope Middle Students of the Month

Thank you to Mr. Gene’s Beans for sponsoring our Fairhope Middle School April students of the month!

7th Grade: Kelcie Skinner & Mohammad Aldukali

8th Grade: Jack Hitpas & Lane Holcomb

Foley Elementary Teacher Receives Scholarship

Congratulations to Foley Elementary School’s Ms. Lauren Stewart on receiving the National Board Scholarship. This award covers the full cost as she begins the rigorous process of earning certification. This honor is held by only 4.6% of Alabama teachers. Foley Elementary is proud to exceed that with 5% certified and 4% currently pursuing!

Spanish Fort Elementary Enjoy Digging for Dinosaurs

A huge thank you to SFEEF Spanish Fort Education Enrichment Foundation for awarding our Spanish Fort Elementary School STEAM lab a grant for “Digging for Dinosaurs!” This week, our young paleontologists dove into the prehistoric world—digging, exploring, and even becoming dinosaurs! From thrilling dinosaur hunts to excavations and creative dino-building, it’s been an unforgettable adventure. We’re so grateful for your support in bringing this hands-on learning experience to life!

CTKCS NJHS Induction

Congratulations to our newly inducted National Junior Honor Society members! These students exemplify the pillars of scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship. Christ the King Catholic School is so proud of their dedication and accomplishments!

Foley Middle School NJHS Inductions

National Junior Honor Society Inductions were held recently. Thank you to the 24-25 officers, Brody Martin, Walker Reissiger, Kylie McGehe, and Hailey Ables for their leadership this year. Our new officers are Gabe Lee, treasurer, Brennan Norris, secretary, Selena Garcia, vice-president, and Elly Quarles, president. Congratulations to all of our new members on their academic achievement!

Baldwin County High School Present Academic Banners

Baldwin County High School presented Academic Banners to 34 students who have dedicated themselves to excellence in academics and involvement in their school and community. To receive the banners, the senior students must have a 22 ACT score or better, completion of at least one Advanced Placement/Dual Enrollment course, Career and Technical Education Credential, and at least two of the following: 3.5 GPA or better, National Honor Society, and member of club or extracurricular activity.

Those receiving Academic Banners included Eli Aaron, Hope Bates, Gabrielle Bidwell, Michael Blanton. Brady Bryars, Rebecca Bryars, Njabea Bufford, Chloe Burford, Taylor Conway, Madison Davis, James Drinkard, Lily Drinkard, Jackson Duncan, Jada Gray, Hollee Harville, Kayan Horace, Taylor Johnson, Cale Jones, Brooklyn Jones, Lindsey Ledford, Jamionna Lero, Andi McKissack, Samantha McMahill, Claudia Murchison, Abbigail Paul, Zachary Richards, Rose Rieben, Jacaleb Rivers, John Roberts, Taylor Robertson, Alanna Sanders, Addison

Scarborough, Allison Siggers and Colton Wiggins

On graduation night, the banners will be hung from the graduate’s chair as their final recognition of their hard work at BCHS. During today’s presentation ceremony, each banner recipient shared their college or career plans. This marks the fourth year for BCHS to award Academic Banners to students.

Bayshore Christian School’s 2025 Valedictorian and

Salutatorian

Bayshore Christian School is proud to announce the Class of 2025 Valedictorian, Ben Whiteside, and Salutatorian, Julianna Byrd. These two remarkable students have demonstrated academic excellence, steadfast commitment, and a heart for serving others throughout their time at Bayshore. Their achievements are a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and the grace of God guiding their journey.

“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

—Matthew 5:16

Daphne Elementary School Genius Showcase

Third grade teacher, Mrs. Walker, organized a great production for Daphne Elementary School students to perform for their parents and school community. At the annual DES Genius Showcase the creativity, courage, and talent of our brilliant students was celebrated for the entire school to enjoy! Singers, gymnasts, musicians, and even our very own DES teachers amazed the audience with their performances. Congratulations to all who participated! DES is proud of you!

Fairhope East Elementary’s Showcase of Stars

A huge congratulations to all of the amazing students who shared their talents in the Fairhope East Elementary “Showcase of Stars”! Each of you shined so brightly on stage! We are so proud of your courage, creativity, and hard work.

A heartfelt Thank You to our fabulous judges for your time, support, and encouraging words- you helped make the day truly special! And an extra special shoutout to Mrs. Moore, our incredible music teacher, for organizing such a wonderful show! We appreciate the support from all those who worked behind the scenes to make things run smoothly!

St. Michael Student Scores Perfect on ACT

St. Michael Catholic High School is proud to announce that junior Andrew Kiernan achieved a perfect composite score of 36 on the ACT during the in-school testing session this March. Andrew’s outstanding performance places him among an elite group of students nationwide. In 2024, only approximately 0.3% of ACT test-takers nationwide earned a perfect score, meaning fewer than 4,000 students out of over 1.3 million achieved this distinction. In March 2025, according to Quad Education, around 5,579 students out of over 1.6 million test-takers reached this benchmark, representing just 0.33% of all examinees. The national average ACT score currently stands at 19.9, further highlighting the exceptional nature of Andrew’s accomplishment.

“We are incredibly proud of Andrew and his hard work,” said Mrs. Dena Caldwell, College Counselor at St. Michael Catholic High School. “A perfect ACT score is a rare and remarkable achievement that speaks not only to his academic ability but also to his focus, perseverance, and drive. We are excited to see what the future holds for him.”

St. Michael Catholic High School—where education meets formation and students are Formed to Fly—is proud to celebrate Andrew’s success alongside the entire school community. His achievement reflects the dedication of our students, the commitment of our teachers, and the supportive environment cultivated at St. Michael.

Silverhill Student Art Chosen for Superintendent’s Art Gallery

Congratulations to Silverhill Elementary School’s sixth-grader Liam McInnis for being chosen to have his art displayed in the Superintendent’s Art Gallery. Way to go, Liam!

Daphne High Art Students Chosen for Sports Art Competition

Daphne High School is proud to announce that 4 of our Daphne Trojan Art Students were selected to be in the top 25 at the 3rd Annual Sports Art Competition at the United States Sports University. Ms. Anne Carr’s art students: Veronica Boussard (9th grade), Martina Venegas (9th grade), Carley Nelson (11th grade), and Elianna Langley (12th grade) were our finalists. High Schools from both Baldwin and Mobile County were invited to compete. The competition was great! On a rainy Wednesday evening, May 7, 2025, the USSU hosted the most lovely and professional reception for the awards ceremony. It was an honor to be among them all. A big congratulations to Veronica Boussard, who was awarded a Honorable Mention in the Drawing category!

Fairhope High Student Receives JLS International Vocational Scholarship

CTKCS Field Day 2025

May has been packed with fun, and Field Day was no exception! Our students (and teachers!) enjoyed the sunshine, games, and good-natured competition. The picture-perfect weather set the stage for a beautiful, joy-filled day. Thank you to Coach Benton and our parent volunteers who helped make the event successful!

Congratulations to Fairhope High School senior Ethan Montford for being awarded the JLS International Vocational Scholarship. This scholarship supports students pursing Career and Technical Education (CTE) after high school. Ethan received $1,000 which can be used toward his tuition at Coastal Alabama Community College where he plans to study Electrical Instrumentation Technology. Ethan is one of 10 students who received this award!

Elberta High Warrior Room Ends With a Splash

Elberta High School’s Warrior Room wrapped up the year with a splash! We had an amazing time at the splash pad celebrating all the hard work, growth, and memories made this year. Here’s to a summer full of fun and more adventures ahead!

Daphne Middle Spring Court Dance King and Queen

Congratulations to the Daphne Middle School Spring Court Dance king and queen, Hadley King and Bradley Williams. Thank you to our cheerleaders, their coaches, teachers, and parents for making this such an amazing night for our students!

were honored to host her on our campus.

Pictured: Bayside Academy fourth grade students Grace Pilot and Louise Lucas with author Anna James.

St. Michael Senior is Winner of Prestigious Edgar Welden Scholarship

St. Michael Catholic High School is proud to announce that senior Cooper Kurth has been named the male recipient of the prestigious W. Edgar Welden Scholarship, a $5,000 award presented through the Bryant-Jordan Student-Athlete Program. In addition to this statewide honor, Cooper was also recognized as a 4A Regional Achievement Award winner, earning a $3,000 scholarship. The Bryant-Jordan Foundation, in partnership with the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and the Alabama High School Athletic Association, annually honors student-athletes who exemplify excellence in athletics, academics, and character. Cooper is the second consecutive student from St. Michael to earn the W. Edgar Welden Scholarship and the 4A Regional Achievement Award winner; last year, they were awarded to Samir Crooker—marking a tremendous achievement for the growing Catholic high school.

Cooper will apply his scholarship funds toward his tuition at Auburn University, where he plans to enroll this fall. His success story is particularly inspiring. A childhood cancer survivor, Cooper was diagnosed with leukemia in kindergarten. While undergoing treatment, he received academic support from his teachers and community at Christ the King Catholic School in Daphne. He returned to campus part time in third grade, full time in fourth, with his original class and set his sights on one day becoming a high school athlete—a dream he has since fulfilled with remarkable dedication.

During his time at St. Michael, Cooper has been a standout contributor to both the varsity football and basketball teams. “Cooper is the kind of player every coach wants—tough, dependable, and selfless,” said Head Football Coach Phillip Rivers. “He’ s overcome adversity with grace and has led our team through his quiet strength and work ethic. I’m incredibly proud of him.”

Head Basketball Coach Daniel Nolan added, “Cooper is a true competitor and teammate. His determination to grow as a player and leader has been inspiring to watch. This recognition is well-deserved.”

Principal Dr. Andrea Williamson praised Cooper’s achievement: “We are beyond proud of Cooper—his academic excellence, athletic discipline, and strength of character are a testament to who h e is. To have St. Michael students receive this prestigious scholarship two years in a row is a powerful testament to the caliber of young men and women we are forming here.”

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Foley Middle Staff and Teacher of the Month

Congratulations to the Foley Middle School May teacher and staff of the month, Mrs. Grace Tomlinson and Mrs. Michelle Dillon! Thank you for all you do for our students!

Daphne High Coach of the Year

A huge congratulations to Daphne High School’s Abram Chamberlain on being named the Large School Coach of the Year for Coastal Alabama. His dedication, leadership, and passion for the game have not only shaped incredible athletes but also built a culture of excellence and camaraderie. From inspiring players on the field to guiding them beyond the game, Coach “Chamby” has

Belforest Mathletes Go to Nationals

Some of the Belforest Elementary School Mathletes competed in the Alabama State Championship. Three of them qualified for the next round: Nationals! We are so proud of them!

Robertsdale Elementary School Field Day

Field Day at Robertsdale Elementary School was an absolute blast. What a fun way to wrap up and awesome year!

St. James Episcopal School Learns About Recycling

St. James Episcopal School students enjoyed an exciting visit from the City of Fairhope Recycling Department, where they learned about the process of recycling and got a hands-on look at how a recycling truck works.

W. J. Carroll HEAL Heroes

Fairhope West Elementary Receives Grant for P.E. Department

Infirmary Health presented a grant check in the amount of $3,300 to the Fairhope West Elementary School P.E. Department! This grant was made possible by all who signed up for the Spring Fever Chase through the school sign up forms. So thank you for signing up for the race through FWE and also huge thank you to Infirmary Health! This grant will be used to add a 9 Square in The Air and a Gaga Pit, both to be used inside the gym!

Congratulations to these W. J. Carroll Intermediate School students who were awarded the HEAL Hero Award. A HEAL Hero is someone who learned from the Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) program and made changes in their lifestyle, and helped others to become healthier.

Congratulations to our 4th grade students left to right: 3rd place-Annie Daw, 2nd place-Astrid Wetzel, 1st place-Carson Nettles-Harris. Congratulations to our 5th grade students left to right: 3rd place-Cole Chappell, 2nd place-Olivia Burcham, 1st place-Olivia Herman

Stonebridge Leaders of the Month

Congratulations to our Stonebridge Elementary School Leaders of the Month for Habit 6: Synergize! These students know the power of teamwork and collaboration. They show us every day that together is better! Way to go, leaders!

Daphne East Elementary Mother’s Day Picnic

First grade’s Mother’s Day Picnic at Daphne East Elementary School was a huge success! Thank you parents for joining us!

Rockwell Chess Team Places First

Congratulations to the Rockwell Elementary School Chess Team on their first place finish in the county tournament!

Bayshore’s Kindergarten International Day Celebration

In April, Bayshore’s kindergarten students brought the world to life during their joyful International Day celebration. Each child was assigned a country to explore, learning about its culture, cuisine, and the beauty of God’s love around the globe. The day ended with heartfelt recitations and songs—a nod to the classical tradition of memorization—followed by a festive feast with loved ones.

CBMS Royalty Court

Congratulations to the 2025 Central Baldwin Middle School Royalty Court!

Bayside Academy Senior Amelia Wells Awarded Energy Southeast Scholarship

Bayside Academy senior Amelia Wells has been awarded a scholarship through the Energy Southeast Scholarship Program. Energy Southeast is a joint action agency that was formed in 1981 and is the wholesale power provider for 11 public power utilities in Alabama, including Fairhope. To be eligible for a scholarship, a student must receive electric service from an Energy Southeast member city and attend an Alabama college, university, or vocational school. Amelia plans to study biomedical sciences at Auburn University in the fall.

City of Fairhope Mayor Sherry Sullivan and Electric Superintendent Ben Patterson came to Bayside yesterday to present Amelia with the scholarship. We are so proud of Amelia!

Pictured: Bayside senior Amelia Wells is presented with her scholarship by Fairhope Mayor Sherry Sullivan and Electric Superintendent Ben Patterson.

Daphne East Mathletes Win Big

The Daphne East Mathletes proudly represented our school at the Baldwin County Elementary Math Competition — and we’re excited to share their outstanding results!

1st Place — Group Speed Round: Johnny Robbins, Wilson Jones, and Khang Huynh 1st Place — Individual Speed Round: Lucas Annaert

We’re also thrilled to announce that 6 of the Top 15 Individual Speed Round participants were from Daphne East! A huge thank you to the Daphne East PTO for providing drinks and snacks to keep our mathletes energized throughout the day. If you see one of our mathletes, be sure to congratulate them on their incredible achievements! We are so proud of them!

Spanish Fort Elementary Holds Talent Show

Our Spanish Fort Elementary students lit up the stage with their incredible talents! From singing and dancing to amazing performances of all kinds, each student shined bright and showed off their unique skills. It was a show full of creativity, confidence, and unforgettable moments!

Foley High Student Wins Vocational Scholarship

Congratulations to Foley High School’s Landdun Martin who is one of the inaugural recipients of the JLS International Vocational Scholarship. This scholarship fund is aimed at supporting students pursuing Career and Technical Education (CTE) in the Baldwin County Public Schools. Landdun received $1,000 which can be used toward his tuition at Coastal Alabama Community College as he pursues a degree in Welding Technology. Only 10 students in Baldwin County received this scholarship. We’re so proud of you, Landdun! Go Lions!

Stapleton Students Represent!

Stapleton School is proud of the students who represented our school at the North Baldwin STEAM Challenge Day held at Pine Grove Elementary School. These terrific students enjoyed a great learning adventure competing in a variety of engineering and robotics challenges.

Elsanor Chess Team Wins Big

What a day at the Baldwin County Public Schools Chess Tournament for Elsanor Elementary School! Our students did a fantastic job competing in the Novice Category--so fantastic that they placed 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th of the Top 5! Third grader Lily Brown came in 1st place followed by fourth grader Charlie Hines in 2nd place! Fourth grader Lucas Hill took 4th place and third grader Mason Quinn took 5th place! Congratulations to our winners and to all our students who participated today! A big thanks also goes out to Mrs. Kim Parra, our Project Jubilee teacher, who leads the Chess Club!

Rosinton Elementary Winners of Bottlenose Dolphin Art Project

Congratulations to our talented fifth grade students at Rosinton Elementary School!

These amazing artists were selected as winners of our Bottlenose Dolphin Art Project! Their creative and informative artwork will be sent to the Dauphin Island Sea Lab!

Exciting News From J. Larry Newton 3rd Grade Scientists!

The amazing 3rd graders from J. Larry Newton School have been hard at work collaborating with the Pelican’s Nest and scientists from the Dauphin Island Sea Lab as part of the Alabama Species Initiative. Their mission? Research the brown pelican and create eye-catching, informative posters to raise awareness for this incredible coastal bird! We’re so proud to announce that our school had three winners in this county wide effort: Honorable Mentions: Rylee G. & Elise W. First Place Winner: Millie M.! These talented students will be invited to the Dauphin

Pine Grove Students Put

three posters that were sent to be judged by scientists and partners of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab along with other entries from across the district.

the “A” in

STEAM

Students in Kindergarten, 4th, and 6th grade at Pine Grove Elementary School put the “A” in STEAM by participating in the Alabama Species Initiative. After researching their specific species, students were challenged to design and create an awareness poster. Each class submitted

Fairhope West Dream Architecture Contest Winners

Five awesome Fairhope West Elementary School artists won an art contest put on by local architects called the Dream Architecture Contest. The students had to design and write about their own zoo. We had five winners. Our second-grade students ((Maren Morgan, Sutton Greer, and Jack Thetford) won first, second, and third place for the contest. Olivia Gonzalez and Addyson Kinney, in first grade, won second and third place. Congratulations to our amazing future-architects!

Robertsdale High Students Win JLS International Vocational Scholarship

Congratulations to Kamden Anderson, Karis Kolonis, and Miller Ragsdale of Robertsdale High School for being awarded the JLS international Vocational Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to students seeking to further their education in CTE (Career and Technical Education) related fields. These three students were a part of ten students selected for this scholarship in Baldwin County. We are so proud of them!

Fairhope East Elementary NEHS Inductees

Congratulations to all of the new members of the Fairhope East National Elementary Honor Society. Your hard work and dedication have led you to this accomplishment, and we know you will continue to do great things!

Thank you to our wonderful keynote speaker, Karlee Lambert, and the sixth-grade members who led the ceremony. We are so proud of our pirates!

Bayside Academy’s Class of 2025

Bayside Academy’s Class of 2025 participated in their Senior Parade and celebration on Tuesday, May 13th, ahead of their graduation on Friday, May 16 th . This senior class has achieved remarkable success in their college application process. The class of 2025 has been accepted to 89 different schools in 26 states, DC, and France, earning $10.8 million in scholarship offers, with 86% of the class receiving at least one scholarship! Our seniors will matriculate into 27 different schools across 13 states and France. This extraordinary accomplishment reflects the dedication of the students, the support of their families, and the exceptional guidance provided by Bayside’s faculty and college counseling team.

Pictured: Members of the Bayside Academy Class of 2025 enjoy the Senior Parade on May 13th.

“Getting to sleep in my own bed at night through treatment was a game changer.”

AlphaCare Urgent Care Awards Scholarships

to Local Students, Expands Community Support Across Gulf Coast

AlphaCare Urgent Care, a trusted provider of walk-in medical services and winner of the Best of Baldwin award for emergency services in 2024 and 2025, proudly announces the awarding of 14 scholarships to outstanding high school seniors across the Alabama and Mississippi Gulf Coast. Each student received $2,500 to support their higher education goals.

This year’s recipients include Abigail Riley English of Daphne High School, Reese Adams of Fairhope High School, and Morgan Kate Robinson of Spanish Fort High School, representing the Eastern Shore community. An additional 11 scholarships were awarded to students in coastal Mississippi, bringing the total to 14 awards and $35,000 in educational support. “At AlphaCare, being part of the communities we serve is at the heart of what we do,” said Dr. George Loukatos, founder of AlphaCare Urgent Care. “Our mission goes beyond providing high-quality, accessible healthcare— it’s also about uplifting and investing in the future of our region. These scholarships are one way we empower young people who are already demonstrating leadership, service, and academic achievement.”

Now with six convenient locations across the Gulf Coast—including clinics in Fairhope and Spanish Fort, Alabama, and four in Mississippi—AlphaCare continues to grow its commitment to caring for residents not only in the exam room but throughout the community. The annual scholarship program is one of many outreach efforts that reflect AlphaCare’s deep-rooted mission: to deliver compassionate, high-quality care while contributing to the growth and well-being of the communities it serves.

For more information about AlphaCare Urgent Care and its services, visit www. alphacareurgentcare.com.

Fairhope Middle Miss Pirate Princess Winners

Congratulations to the Fairhope Middle School Miss Pirate Princess winners! Miss Pirate Princess-Linnie Grace Stacey, 8th Grade Princess-Lucy Martin, 7th Grade Princess-Claire Lambert, Most Poised-Avery Huffty, Best Interview-Callie Giddings, Miss Congeniality & Most Ad Sales- LJ Cook, Most Photogenic-Kinsley Lauber Top 10- Claire Lambert, Elizabeth Mello, Mia Babineaux, LJ Cook, Callie Giddings, Avery Huffty, Lucy Martin, Piper Richardson, Lilly Sprute, Linnie Grace Stacey.

Bingo Night at Magnolia Elementary!

What a fantastic evening filled with fun, laughter, and lucky numbers at Magnolia Elementary School’s Bingo Night! A huge thank you to Ms. Wiggins for all her hard work in putting together such a wonderful event—your dedication truly made the night special. Additionally, a very special thank you to Mrs. Liz, Mrs. McFarland, Mrs. Wittmer, Mrs. Roper, Mrs. Millines, Mrs. Davis, Mrs. Caster, Mrs. McGraw, and Mrs. Johnson — your involvement made a tremendous impact! From thrilling wins to friendly competition, Bingo Night brought our Magnolia Elementary community together in the best way. We can’t wait for the next one!

Swift Consolidated Finalists in Dauphin Island Sea Lab Contest

Congratulations to these Swift Consolidated Elementary School finalists in the DISL contest. Our Swift 5th and 6th grade students will represent our school at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab to win a chance to tour the facility! They learned ways to protect Alabama species. We are so proud!

Spanish Fort Middle Toro Tubanos Performance

The Toro Tubanos drumming group from Spanish Fort Middle School performed at the district Principal’s Meeting at Baldwin Preparatory Academy. A small group of students sang the National Anthem to begin the meeting. The Toro Tubanos played a great selection of upbeat tunes on drums. What a great testimony of the arts changing lives! The directors of the group are Natalie Hughes and Caylen Stewart. Congratulations to the students on a fantastic mini-concert.

Summerdale Students Win Tropic Falls Passes

Summerdale School congratulates our students who received a day pass to Tropic Falls at Owa. All students demonstrating growth on the spring STAR assessment were entered into the drawing. Keep growing! We thank Owa for their support of our students!

Margaret and Mark Calhoun relocated to the Gulf Coast from Troy, AL, in 2017. Mark owns his own construction business, and Margaret has been the Director of Ecumenical Ministries since 2023. The couple has two sweet children - Mason (11) and Stella (3). They also have four cats and a new puppy.

“My family is what gives me the most joy. I enjoy spending time with them and watching our kids grow,” Margaret shared. “Mason is a busy kid. He plays violin for the Baldwin Youth Orchestra, takes piano lessons, and has been on the chess team at his school. Stella is an energetic toddler who thinks she is the boss —she keeps us on our toes.”

The family truly enjoys being outdoors. You can usually find them playing outside in the afternoons and grilling on the weekends. During the summer, they are often at Margaret’s mom’s house, taking full advantage of the pool. If not there, the Calhouns are packing up for a family beach day.

One interesting thing they enjoy doing together, especially during Summer, is Geocaching.

“One of the coolest finds when geocaching was a day spent at Gulf State Park. It led us off the path through the woods. There is an old vat for cattle back there where we found the geocache,” said Margaret. “We discovered through this adventure that farmers would winter their cattle on the island. The vat was full of arsenic to kill ticks. It was fun learning that years ago, cattle were hanging out at the beach.”

Margaret works a very important job as the South Baldwin Director of Ecumenical Ministries. This is a non-denominational, social service agency that has been serving our area for over 55 years. There are many programs offered through the agency. Some

of those include providing emergency services to residents in our area, helping repair homes for the elderly, and coordinating Meals on Wheels.

“I received a Master of Social Work in 2017. I knew I wanted to move to Baldwin County and had been searching for employment. My parents were at a party one evening, and my mom made a new friend, who was a volunteer at Ecumenical and knew of a new position that was coming open,” reminisced Margaret. “I came to Baldwin County for an interview and felt right at home at Ecumenical. I started working as the case manager in July of 2017. In September of 2023, I was promoted to the South Baldwin Director. I enjoy serving our community.”

Margaret says she is proud of herself for working a full-time job — one that requires being on call, being a wife and mom, and getting her master’s degree.

little. She describes it as a simple recipe with simple ingredients.

“We stopped using poppy seeds on the top years ago! My son was a picky eater, and so we left them off. They are just there to make the dish look pretty; they have no flavor at all,” Margaret shared. “Also, my son likes crushed-up Goldfish or Cheez-It’s on top, instead of traditional crackers. It puts a fun twist on the casserole for kids.”

Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole

Ingredients:

• 5-6 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded

• 2 cans of cream of chicken soup

• 1- 8 oz carton of sour cream

• 1 tube of Ritz crackers, crushed (Goldfish or Cheeze-Its also work well)

“It was not an easy task, but I did it,” she said. “This past month, I graduated from Leadership Baldwin. It was a great experience. I was able to meet other leaders in Baldwin County, learn about programs and businesses that I did not know were here, and see what our county has to offer.”

With a very busy schedule, enjoying meals at home together is important to this family of four. One of their favorites is Poppy Seed Casserole, which was a staple dish that Margaret’s mom made when she was

• 1 stick of melted butter

• Poppy seeds

Directions:

1. Combine cooked and shredded chicken with the cream of chicken soup and sour cream.

2. Put in a greased casserole dish.

3. Top with crushed crackers.

4. Drizzle butter on top.

5. Sprinkle poppy seeds on top.

6. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes or until slightly bubbly.

Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August. Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.

Every dad needs reminders of how much he is loved and valued. While you don’t want to forgo the handmade cards and the offbeat kid ideas, these 10 ways to celebrate dad are sure to remind him of how much you care and give everyone some fun along the way.

1. Scavenger Hunt: This works for kids of all ages, plus it can be as involved as you want it to be. Come up with fun clues like “As a dad I could not ask for better, your next clue is where you find a letter,” to lead dad around the house to find a Father’s Day prize. You can make up your own clues or download a set from ETSY. You’re sure to get lots of giggles from kids every step of the way.

To make this work with older kids, you can even take the hunt beyond the house to go to places around town. Give him a clue when he arrives at each location, eventually ending up at a favorite restaurant or event like a baseball game or concert.

2. Memory Lane: Even the most macho dads can appreciate a little trip down memory lane, especially for Father’s Day. Break out some old photos and create a short movie full of memories for him. This is the perfect project for tweens and teens to take charge of. For younger helpers, get photos printed and have them create a poster of memories.

It’s even great to get photos from before dad was, well, a dad. Give him the chance to tell stories about who he was as a kid and before he embraced dad life.

3. Finish a Project: Every dad we know has some project they started that they never got around to finishing because dad life is busy. Work together to help him finish a project. Whether it’s finally building the shelves he needs or planting the garden he dreams of, working together will make the project even sweeter.

4. Challenge: This can be as crazy as you want it to be. Think outdoor races or a bake-off. Maybe a game of basketball or chess. Discover a fun challenge you can do for some friendly competition and time together.

5. Serve Him: This is not giving him a coupon for help in the yard or washing his car. This is about actually doing it. Surprise dad and wash the car inside and out. Pack his lunch for the next day. Take care of a job he always does so he can put his feet up and relax. Bonus points if you bring him some lemonade and cookies!

6. Explore a Favorite Spot: Does he love a certain hiking trail or beach? Maybe there’s a bookstore that he never has time to meander through or that hardware store that he loves.

matter how you do it, just make sure it’s one of his favorite places.

7. Discover a New Place: It’s easy for parents to get so caught up in the day-to-day that they run out of time for exploring new places. Give dad the gift of exploration.

You can go old school and road trip with no plan in mind, but it’s usually better to have a few ideas up your sleeve. Websites like Only In Your State can help you find everything from wacky restaurants, hikes you never knew about, abandoned places, and even road trip trails to take you on an adventure to the state’s best ice cream spots, breweries, and more.

8. Make a Summer Bucket List (Dad Edition!): Even dad has a list of things he’d love to do. Sometimes it gets buried under work and baseball practice and goodnight stories. Father’s Day is the perfect time to dust it off!

Get a poster and some markers or create a shared family list on your phone for Dad’s Summer Bucket List. Ask him what he wants to do before summer is over. And it can’t be all work and house things. Make sure he has fun little outings like going to his favorite ice cream shop and some bigger ideas like boogie boarding at the state beach. Even reading through a favorite book or seeing a movie counts!

happens Amazing

The only requirement: make time for the things on the list. Putting them on the calendar is the key to making them happen.

9. Favorite Foods: From sunup to sundown, fill the day with dad’s favorite foods. Does he love a Caffè Americano and donuts? Maybe a protein shake from that place across town? How about burgers and fries? Add a milkshake? You got it!

Whatever it is, the day isn’t about what the kids like (sorry kids!) It’s a chance for dad to eat the things he loves and enjoy every bite. He doesn’t even have to share!

10. More Than a Day: The fun doesn’t have to last for just one day. Make it an overnight or a weekend. Plan a family vacation that you know he’d love. It doesn’t need to be far or expensive (although that resort he’s dreamed about isn’t a terrible idea!) Think about things he loves and start there. Does he love the outdoors? Maybe a campout is a perfect idea (even in the backyard!) Is he a museum guy? Plan an overnight to go to an art installation or even a fun place like the Spy Museum. Whatever dad likes you can find a place he will enjoy.

And the best part? The time you’ll have together!

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

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St. Andrew by the Sea

ad on page 25

17263 Fort Morgan Road Gulf Shores, 36542

Dates: July 14-17 Ages: 3 years-rising 5th grade VBS is Free! 6th grade and up welcomed as volunteers.

(251) 968-3900 www.standrewbythesea.org/ vacation-bible-school

First Baptist Church of Loxley

1050 North Alabama Street Loxley, 36551

Dates: June 1-5 Times: 6:00pm-8:30pm

Ages: Completed Kindergarten - 6th grade

Theme: True North

Join us for an Alaskan trek as we head True North - Trusting Jesus in a Wild World. (251) 964-5261 www.fbcloxley.com

Fairhope UMC

155 South Section Street Fairhope, 36532

Dates: June 1-6 Times: June 1- 5-7pm, June 2nd-6th 8:45am-12:15pm Ages: 3 years – rising 6th grade Theme: True North On Sunday, we’ll have a family kick-off celebration with dinner, inflatables, and fun. (251) 928-1148 jenna.hood@fairhopeumc.org www.fairhopeumc.org

First Baptist Church of Foley

221 North Alston Street Foley, 36535

Dates: June 2-5 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: K4 - 6th grade Theme: K4-K-VBS, 1st-6th grades-Sports and Art Camp Sports and Art Camp. Each camper will get to choose which camp they want to do. (251) 943-8352 tspradlin@fbcfoley.com www.fbcfoley.com

Gulf Shores Methodist ChurchSouth Campus

1900 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Dates: June 2-5 Times: 5:30pm-8:00pm Theme: True North Ages: 4 years-6th grade

Registration: gulfshores.church/event/vbs-2025/ (251) 968-2411 www.gulfshores.church

Spanish Fort United Methodist Church

6690 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, 36527

Dates: June 2-5 Times: 5:30pm–7:30pm Ages: 5 years (by 9/1/2025)- completed 5th grade

Theme: True North - Trusting Jesus in a Wild World

Be sure to register your child online. (251) 626-1334 children@spanishfortumc.org www.spanishfortumc.org/vbs/

Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church

320 Presbyterian Drive Fairhope, 36532

Dates: June 2-5, Kick Off June 1st at 4:30pm Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: (going into) K5 - 6th grade Theme: International Spy Academy: Searching for the One, True God! Synchronize your watches! Decode the clues! Set your GPS for ISA to train to become agents for the one true God! “You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you!” Psalm 63:1 (251) 210-1226 adavey@easternshorepca.org www.myvbs.org/espcVBS25

3Circle Church

Daphne Campus - 10080 County Road 64 Daphne, 36526

Dates: June 2-6 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: 4 years - 4th grade Theme: Camp 3Circle Camp 3Circle is a fun-filled week for kids ages 4 years-4th grade. We incorporate worship, Bible study, and games to point children to God’s great love for them. (251) 990-3112 info@3circlechurch.com www.3CircleChurch.com/camp

First Baptist Gulf Shores

2300 West 1st Street Gulf Shores, 36542

Dates: June 2-6 Times: 8:00am-12:00pm

Ages: Completed K4-5th grade

Theme: Wonder Junction (251) 968-7369 children@fbcgulf.com www.fbcgulf.com/

Trinity Presbyterian Church

545 South Mobile Street Fairhope, 36532

Dates: June 2-6 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm

Ages: Completed K through 4th grade (251) 928-2524 tpcfairhope.org

Eastwood Baptist Church

11 Old Pensacola Road Bay Minette, 36507

Dates: June 8-12, VBS Pre-Registration CookoutMay 31, 2:00pm Times: 6:00pm-8:00pm

Ages: PreK-6th grade Theme: Wonder Junction 251-937-6277 www.eastwoodb.com

Fish River Baptist Church

17140 County Rd 33 Fairhope, 36532

Dates: June 8-13

Times: 6:00pm-8:30pm

Ages: Kindergarten- 6th grade Theme: Magnified (251) 928-0402 fishriverbaptist@att.net fishriverbaptistchurch.com

3Circle Church Fairhope Campus10274 State Hwy 104 Fairhope, 36532

Dates: June 9-12

Times: 9:00am-12:00pm

Ages: 4 years - 4th grade

Camp 3Circle is a fun-filled week for kids ages 4 years4th grade. We incorporate worship, Bible study, and games to point children to God’s great love for them. (251) 990-3112 info@3circlechurch.com

3CircleChurch.com/camp

Eastern Shore Baptist Church 6847 Park Drive Daphne, 36526

Dates: June 9-13 Times: 8:30am-12:00pm

Ages: Completed K - 6th grade

Theme: Magnified

Discovering the BIGNESS of God in the SMALLEST of things. Registration: https://kideventpro. lifeway.com/myEvent/?id=70421 (251) 626-5550 leann@myesbc.net www.myesbc.net

Spanish Fort Presbyterian Church

6620 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527

Dates: June 9-12 Times: 6:00pm-8:00pm

Ages: Rising Kindergarten - 5th grade Theme: Road Trip, On The Go With God Road Trip, On The Go With God. We will go on an “exciting journey and discover new places, new friends, and ways that we can discover God’s goodness and presence everywhere. (251) 626-1242 churchoffice@spanishfortpc.com www.spanishfortpresbyterian.com

Providence United Methodist Church

32200 Jimmy Faulkner Drive Spanish Fort, 36527 Dates: June 15–19 Times: 5:30pm-7:45pm Ages: Kindergarten -Completed 5th grade Theme: Wonder Junction

Dinner provided each night. Registration: https:// providencemethodist.myanswers.com/wonderjunction/register/ (251) 626-2510 https://providencemethodist. myanswers.com/wonder-junction/

Gulf Shores Church of Christ 2414 W 1st St, Gulf Shores, 36542

Dates: June 16-18 Times: 6:00pm-8:00pm Ages: K3-5th grade Theme: Camp Faith (251) 968-7769 gulfshoreschurchofchrist.org

First Methodist Church of Bay Minette 120 West 2nd Street Bay Minette, 36507 Dates: June 16-20 Times: 8:30am-12:30pm

Ages: rising K-6th grade Theme: Northern Adventure (251) 937-8303 https://fmcbayminette.org/ vacation-bible-school-2025/

East Pointe Baptist Church

34742 Hwy 225, Spanish Fort, AL 36527

Dates: June 16-19 Times: 5:30pm-8:00pm

Theme: True North (251) 626-6263 eastpointebaptistchurch.com

Orange Beach Methodist Church

28751 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561

Dates: June 16-20 Times: 5:00pm-7:00pm

Ages: PreK (fully potty trained) - 4th grade Theme: True North: Trusting Jesus in a Wild World (251) 981-6751 oboffice@obmchurch.com https://obmchurch.churchcenter.com/registrations/ events/2889357

Faith Family Fellowship

7100 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527

Dates: June 22-26 Times: June 22-Family Night 5-7pm, June 23-26 9am-12pm Ages: K4-5th grade Theme: Camp Faith (251) 626-1379 daisy@faithfamilyonline.com https://campfaith2025.myanswers.com/zoomerang/

3Circle Church

Robertsdale Campus-19477 Fairground Rd, Robertsdale, 36567

Dates: June 23-26 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: 4 years - 4th grade Camp 3Circle is a fun-filled week for kids ages 4 years-4th grade. We incorporate worship, Bible study, and games to point children to God’s great love for them. (251) 990-3112 info@3circlechurch.com www.3CircleChurch.com/camp

Christ Presbyterian Church

8450 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, 36526

Dates: June 23-26 Times: 5:15pm - 7:30pm Ages: 5 years - 12 years Theme: Egypt (251) 621-9444 christchurchdaphne@gmail.com www.cpcdaphne.com

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

28788 North Main Street Daphne, 36526

Dates: June 23-26 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: 3 years - 10 years Theme: True North Registration: https://vbspro.events/p_early/stpaulseasternshore (251) 626-2421 officestpaulsdaphne@gmail.com www.stpaulseasternshore.com

Summerdale Church of Christ 1070 Hwy 59 S., Summerdale, AL 36580

Dates: June 29-July 2 Times: 6:30pm-8pm Theme: B.O.O.T. CAMP

Ages: 3 years- 6th Grade Meals nightly @ 5:30PM. Are YOU in the LORD’s army?! Join for 4 fun filled evenings! Pre-register at summerdalechurch.org/news. 251-989-2538 www.summerdalechurch.org

St. Paul’s Lutheran (Foley)

400 N Alston Street Foley, 36535

Dates: July 7-11 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: K-6th grade Theme: Epic Australian Adventure-VBS with Purpose (251) 943-6931 stpauls.lcms.foley@gmail.com www.stpaulslcms.com

Shorelight Baptist Church

10526 Co Rd 64 Daphne, 36526

Dates: July 13-16 Times: 6:00pm-7:30pm

Ages: 4 years - 12 years Theme: Wonder Junction shorelight.myanswers.com/wonder-junction/ (251) 655-2202 www.shorelight.church

City Hope Church

29964 Saint Basil St Daphne, 36526

Dates: July 14-17 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm

Ages: 3 years - 1st Grade Theme: Camp Jr

During Camp Jr. we will have a large group time. Where we will have games, a lesson, worship. In our large group time we will introduce our lesson of the day and then kids are divided into age groups for Small Group time! While divided in to Small Groups they will experience crafts, object lessons, games, and snack! All of which will reinforce the Biblical Lesson of the day. (251) 626-0123 https://cityhope.churchcenter. com/registrations/events/2714200

City Hope Church

21270 Miflin Road Foley, 36535

Dates: July 14-17 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm

Ages: 3 years - 1st Grade Theme: Camp Jr

During Camp Jr. we will have a large group time. Where we will have games, a lesson, worship. In our large group time we will introduce our lesson of the day and then kids are divided into age groups for Small Group time! (251) 626-0123 lucas@cityhope.cc https://cityhope.churchcenter.com/registrations/ events/2714205

First Baptist Church of Spanish Fort

8353 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, 36527

Dates: July 14-17 Times: 9:00am-11:30am

Ages: K3-6th grade Theme: Egypt: Joseph’s Journey from Prison to Palace (251) 626-3070 garthFBCSF@gmail.com www.fbcspanishfort.com

Jubilee Baptist Church

9264 Pleasant Road Daphne, 36526

Dates: July 14-17 Times: 5:45pm-8:00pm

Ages: Entering Kindergarten - Current 6th grade Theme: Camp Live It Out

Join us at Camp “Live It Out” where we will discover how to love like Jesus! We can’t wait to explore all camp has to teach us through John 13:34. Online Preregistration is required. Register at www.jubileebaptist.com. (251) 621-7095 kayley@jubileebaptist.com www.jubileebaptist.com/

Barnwell Baptist Church

7780 US Highway 98 Fairhope, 36532

Dates: July 14-18 Times: 8:30am-12:00pm

Ages: K-6th grade

Enjoy music, games, snacks, Bible time, arts and crafts. Signup online. (251) 928-8286 barnwellbaptist@gmail.com https://barnwellbaptist.ne

Celebration Church

8180 Dyer Road Fairhope, 36532

Dates: July 28-30 Times: 9:00am-4:00pm

Ages: Kindergarten- 6th grade

Theme: Summer Surge Lost world

We are thrilled to announce an incredible summer experience for your kids! Join us for Summer Surge: Lost World, happening July 28th-30th from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day! For just $30 per child, your child will embark on a thrilling adventure full of fun, games, epic challenges, inspiring worship, and powerful messages that will leave a lasting impact! Don’t miss out on this chance for your child to experience the adventure of a lifetime. Register today and get ready for a fun-filled journey into the Lost World. (251) 928-0343 ty@fairhopechurch.com www.fairhopechurch.com ESP

You and Your Wife Have to Get on the Same Page

Q. My wife has run her own small business for the last three years. I try to be positive, and help whenever I can, but the truth is things aren’t going very well. In fact, the business has never really shown signs of getting off the ground. Over the last several months, we’ve been putting part of what I make at my job into the business to help keep it open. We’ve also taken money out of savings to bolster things, and now our savings account is pretty low. I want to support her, because she loves what she’s doing. But we have three kids, and I make about $60,000 a year. Things have been pretty tight financially for a while. What do you think we should do?

A. I’m an entrepreneur and business owner. So, trust me, I totally understand

the excitement and allure that goes along with having your own business. But your own household and its immediate financial responsibilities should come first.

Here’s the thing. If you’re putting other money into a business account, that’s a decent sign you’re not making money in the business. The only money that should go into the business account is income the business creates. So, at this point, I think you and your wife need to sit down together, and have a serious, but gentle, talk about things.

Set aside time—together—and complete a written profit and loss statement

on her business. While you’re at it, you also need to make a written household budget. The numbers won’t lie, and it’s going to be your job to be loving and understanding during all this. But the main thing you folks need is to get on the same page financially before the situation gets any worse. Again, when it comes to the business, put all her expenses on the profit and loss statement in detail. Then, write out what it would take for her to break even each month. I hate that things have turned out this way. But with everything that’s been going on in your finances, if she’s not, at a bare minimum, breaking even at this point, then I’m afraid it’s time for her to do something else.

The day was wide open before us. And by wide open, I mean we didn’t have school. We were no longer tethered to packing lunches and getting to the bus stop. No longer slaves to homework calendars and after-school activities. It was a day off. We should celebrate!

My mind began racing with ideas. We could go to that new science museum. Or maybe we should head to the movies. No, save those for a rainy day. Hmmm...the beach? The park? Or maybe a picnic at the park followed by ice cream at the beach? There was no shortage of possibilities.

My kids barely noticed me, happy to start their day void of the typical structure. They may have felt relaxed, basking in their newfound freedom. I, on the other hand, was busy figuring out how to make the day magical.

I had pictures in my mind of what the other parents would be doing with their kids. I scolded myself for not thinking ahead to have the kids invite friends over so they could come to enjoy the day of fun I was spinning in my mind. Oh, well. I could still make the day magical for my three.

24/7. Even the thought is exhausting. I want to do fun things with my kids, but not at the expense of living life, real life. They need to see that there is a balance between fun and normal, or better yet, a melding of the two. And while I may be able to lead them that way, I can’t navigate the whole way for them.

If I want them to grow up to be more than consumers of this beautiful world, I need to give them a chance to live in it, contribute to it, and be part of it. We are not spectators, but we are contributors, active participants in creating a life we

And then I tripped over the laundry pile on my way to feed the dogs. Looking around, I saw all the things that still needed to be done. The beds needed to be made, the dirty dishes piled in the sink, and the work email notifications on my phone. School may have ended, but real life didn’t. There was a tug-of-war going on in my head between the magic I expected to create and the real-life things that had to get done. I felt defeated and wondered why I was fighting at all.

I had developed an expectation that life was a great big Instagram feed for the world to see. This feed represented wh o I am, but also who I want to be, who I think others want me to be, and who I can never be. In all the headlines telling me how to “Create a Magical Summer” and “Make Memories that Last a Lifetime,” I began running faster and faster on a hamster wheel to create a magical childhood for my kids.

The truth is magic isn’t real. It’s all about illusions.

Just like I am never going to be five foot eight and size two (no matter how high the heels and how tight the Spanx), I’m never going to entertain my kids

love. And this means doing things that don’t make the Instagram feed.

I look around and see them. One is plugged into an audiobook, one is playing a video game, and one is headed outside to scooter. They are content for the moment, so I permit myself to be content. I know that the moment won’t last forever, and as I exhale I think about what needs to happen and what we want to happen.

The day is a day. It is magical simply because it exists. There will be laundry to fold today. And they will help. But if we do that right after lunch, we can grab an ice cream and head to the park. We can find moments of magic in ordinary days.

It is not my job to entertain my kids. And they shouldn’t be entertained all day. We can, however, find ways to have fun in real life. To have beach days and home days. To have chore times and break times. To do nothing and to do something amazing.

Summer isn’t about endless entertaining. It’s simply about enjoying the moments and living life along the way.

Rebecca Hastings is a freelance writer and frequent contributor. ESP

Amusement Parks & Outdoor Fun

Downtown OWA

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100 N OWA Blvd Foley, 36535

All the fun—none of the traffic. Inspired by Southern small towns, Downtown OWA’s pedestrianonly streets are Coastal Alabama’s destination for shopping, dining and entertainment! There’s something for everyone in Downtown OWA—including live entertainment at the OWA Theater. Open seven days a week just outside Tropic Falls gates at OWA, on the Foley Beach Express. (251) 923-2111 info@VisitOwa.com VisitOWA.com

Tropic Falls at OWA

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1501 S OWA Boulevard Foley, 36535

Enjoy year-round island vibes at OWA’s Tropic Falls, which includes the region’s biggest indoor water park plus outdoor wave pool with surf simulator and beach—plus 23 theme-park attractions ranging from kid-friendly to hair-raising. Tropic Falls’ indoor water park offers an island vibe beneath a soaring, convertible roof—and a tropicalthemed wave pool and beach just outside. Coming soon: Tropic Falls Hotel. OWA’s Tropic Falls is located just minutes from Alabama beaches on the Foley Beach Express. (251) 923-2111 www.visitowa.com/destinations/ tropic-falls-at-owa

Tropic Hideaway RV Park

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2252 Creek Winds Road Foley, 36535 Tropic Hideaway combines a minutes-from-thebeach location with luxury RV resort amenities— all on-property at OWA Parks and Resort! All sites are extra wide and feature a full complement of Wi-Fi and hook ups. Premium locations and pullthrough sites are available. (251) 955-3157 https://tropichideaway.com/

Adventure Island

24559 Perdido Beach Blvd Orange Beach, 36561

Experience our two fabulous outdoor mini golf courses, high octane go kart track, bumper boats and one of the largest arcades in the region. (251) 974-1500 www.adventure-island.com

Alabama Animal Safari Park

1664 Venable Road Hope Hull , 36043

Interact with our animals safely from your vehicle while exploring our 350-acre drive-thru safari, on foot walking through our village walk-about, up close when feeding the giraffes on the giraffe tower, or during a special, behind-the-scenes encounter. (334) 288-2105 www.alabamasafaripark.com

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

20499 Oak Road East Gulf Shores, 36542

Join the Adventure! Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Feed a giraffe, enjoy animal adventures and presentations, and more. it’s fun and educational for everyone! Open daily 9am-4pm (251) 256-7008 www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.com

Alligator Alley

19950 Highway 71 Summerdale, 36580

Start your guided adventure with a walk, where you can see alligators from hatchlings to mature adults, relaxing, sunbathing, courting and nesting along with other natural inhabitants such as turtles, ospreys, owls and bull frogs only a couple feet away! (251) 946-2483 www.gatoralleyfarm.com

Coastal Segway Adventures

21101 State Highway 135 Gulf Shores, 36542

Two-hour guided Segway tours through the Backcountry Trail. Kayak tours as well as paddle board, kayak, ebike, etrike and biking rentals. (251) 509-8687 www.coastalsegwayadventures.com

Creekside Mini Golf & Arcade

20868 County Road 20 Foley, 36535

Adventure Awaits! Two 18-hole mini golf courses, go karts, batting cages and a lively arcade packed with games for all ages. (251) 451-4653 www.creeksideminigolf.net

Fairhope Skate Park

701 Volanta Avenue Fairhope, 36532 fairhopeal.gov/community/parks-recreation/skate-park

Fairways of Fairhope Disc Golf

805 N Greeno Rd Fairhope, 36532 www.facebook.com/fairwaysoffairhope

Fast Eddie’s Fun Center

505 West Michigan Avenue Pensacola, 32505 Enjoy FAST Go-Karts, a Tropical Mini-Golf Course, and a Construction Zone with Mini Excavators! Take a swing in our Batting Cages and then Cool off and win prizes in our LARGE Arcade! 850-433-7735 www.fasteddiesfuncenter.com

Ferris Wheel

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561

It’s a landmark for every Gulf Coast beach vacation. Day or night, that first glimpse of The Wharf’s Ferris wheel — one of the tallest in the Southeast — means you’ve arrived. With the tree-top views and gulf breezes, it’s a favorite way to make memories during your stay!

(251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Foley Skate Park

300 W Roosevelt Ave Foley, 36535 6,000 square foot Skate Park (251) 213-6190 visitfoley.com/listing/foley-skate-park/

Gulf Shores Skate Park

2008 West 3rd Street Gulf Shores, 36542

The Gulf Shores Skate park is a 6500 square foot outdoor facility with 10 concrete modular skate ramps designed for beginner through advanced skaters. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

(251) 968-1420 www.gulfshoresal.gov/1231/ Skateboard-Park

LuLu’s Beach Arcade & Ropes Course

200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, 36542 Enjoy Fun, Food and Music. Come check out LuLu’s Beach Arcade and LuLu’s Ropes Courses – The Mountain of Youth & Munchkin Mountain! (251) 967-5858 www.lulusfunfoodmusic.com/location/gulf-shores/

Park & Splash Pad

11101 County Road 64 Daphne, 36526

Coastal Cafe, Splash Pad and Park are a gift from the Coastal Church Family to our Community. The Cafe and Covered Splash Pad are open Monday - Friday seasonally during the summer months. This season the Cafe and Splash Pad will be open Monday, May 26th - Friday, August 8th. The Splash Pad and Cafe hours this summer are 10am-3pm. The basketball courts, playground, and walking trail are open year-round.

(251) 621-9555 (Ext.535) info@coastalchurch.tv www.coastalchurch.tv/cafeandpark

Pirates Island Golf

3201 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 Adventure golf experience for all ages. Please call or check our website for hours and pricing. (251) 968-4653 www.piratesislandgolf.com/ourlocations/gulf-shores-al-pirates-island/

Shrimpy’s Mini Golf & Ice Cream

204 East 2nd Avenue Gulf Shores, 36542

Come play a round or two of putt-putt golf on our 18-hole Fishing Village mini golf course and experience the LARGEST shrimp in the Southeast! (251) 948-6464 www.shrimpysminigolf.com

SPECTRA Laser Light Experience

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561

The Wharf’s SPECTRA Laser Light Experience incorporates sophisticated choreographed lighting effects with state-of-the-art lasers and popular surround-sound music, delivering a truly unique entertainment experience. Free shows take place on Main Street every night (251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com

The Factory of Gulf Shores 18948 Oak Road West Gulf Shores, 36542 Trampolines, arcade games, flight simulator, birthday parties, open jump, teen night and more. (251) 202-0900 www.thefactorygulfshores.com

The

Track

3200 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542

The Track in Gulf Shores features fun for the whole family with six go-kart tracks, mini golf, blaster boats, Kids Country rides, the Skycoaster, Spinning Coaster, Fat Daddy’s Arcade and more! (251) 270-0209 www.funatthetrack.com

The Wharf – Summer Nights

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561

The Wharf hosts a variety of activities, including special events, kids’ activities + live music. (251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com

The Wharf Express

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561

All aboard–choo choo! The Wharf Express will take you for a fun ride around Main Street to

explore the sights and sounds of The Wharf! Each ride costs $6 per person (1 year and under ride free).

(251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Tiki’s Bikes, Boats & Beach Rentals

Gulf Shores, 36542

We have bikes, e-bikes, paddleboards, pontoon boats, beach chairs, umbrellas, beach carts and coolers delivered FREE directly to your vacation accommodation in the Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan areas.

(251) 240-0506 https://tikisbikes.com/

Town of Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights

East End Beach (Behind Fort Gaines) Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528

Free Family Movie Nights at the East End Beach start May 22. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Please visit our website for schedule of movies. (251) 861-5525 www.townofdauphinisland.org

Town of Dauphin Island Sunday Sunset Concerts

51 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, 36528

2025-Sunset Concerts-the popular Sunset Concert series will start April 13. Concert dates: April 13, May 25, June 29, July 27, August 31 & October 12. (251) 861-5525 www.townofdauphinisland.org

Wales West RV Park & Light Railway

13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, 36576

Freshwater lake, sandy beach, water slide, shady deck for picnicking, catch and release fishing, indoor heated pool and hot tub, playground, Train rides at 10 AM, 12 and 2 PM. Birthday Packages and Field Trip opportunities. (251) 232-2322 www.waleswest.com

Arts, Crafts & Music

Alabama Gulf Coast Music Hall

12615 Foley Beach Express Foley, 36535

Musical events and dinner shows featuring local and national artists. Venue rental available for large and small groups & special events with catering available.

(251) 978-2462 alabamagulfcoastmusichall.com

Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach

26389 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561

Offering classes, workshops, and camps to all ages and skill levels. Call visit us online or sign up for our newsletter to catch upcoming program information.

(251) 981-2787 www.orangebeachal.gov/324/About

Coastal Makers Art Studio

20764 Barbara Lane Robertsdale, 36567

Coastal Makers allows anyone and any age to express their creativity through a variety of mediums, tools, textiles & techniques in a fun mess-making environment!

(251) 455-2909 www.coastalmakers.com

Eastern Shore Art Center

401 Oak Street Fairhope, 36532

The Eastern Shore Art Center connects people of all ages and abilities with the arts through education, exhibitions and outreach activities. Sign up for our newsletter and join us on Facebook. Gallery hours: Tues-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-6pm (251) 928-2228 https://esartcenter.org/

Fantasy Island Toys Craft Classes

335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532

Join us for the ultimate lineup of creative, handson, joy-sparking events for kids of all ages. From slime sundaes and Swiftie parties to backyard

bug hunts and mini house builds, our schedule is packed with magic, memories, and PLAY! Visit https://fantasyislandtoys.com/blogs/news/thegreat-summer-playdate-event-series. (251) 928-1720 www.fantasyislandtoys.com

Home Depot

Home Depot offers kids projects & crafts. www.homedepot.com

Michael’s at Eastern Shore Centre

10200 Eastern Shore Blvd Spanish Fort, 36527 Join us for FREE classes, demos and other events in store. (251) 621-2686 www.michaels.com

Paint Party Studios

115 S McKenzie St Foley, 36535

Kids Paint Party Birthdays, Jewelry Making Parties and Paint Party to-go canvases for home parties. (251) 343-2423 www.paintpartystudios.com

Bowling, Skating, Movies & Indoor Fun

OWA Theater

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205 N. OWA Blvd Foley, 36535

The centerpiece of Downtown OWA’s entertainment offerings, the OWA Theater hosts hosts sell-out events year-round, from award-winning tribute shows to grammy-nominated songwriters, from comedy hours to legendary performances, plays and musicals. State-of-the-art sound, lighting and seating make for a comfortable & memorable venue—and adult beverages are available for purchase! (251) 369-6100 www.visitowa.com

AMC Theatres

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561

Come catch the biggest movie events of the year on the biggest screens in town (251) 981-4444 www.amctheatres.com

Arena - The Next Level Laser Tag/ Bazooka Ball

23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach, 36561

Visit us for great entertainment for all ages! Perfect for birthday parties, civic outings and family

vacations. We offer laser tag, arcade games and bazooka ball for all ages (251) 224-5297(LAZR) arenaorangebeach.com

Brandon Styles Showroom at OWA 101-H S OWA Boulevard Foley, 36535

Featuring a lineup of ever-changing acts and shows, from family-friendly to date night, the quick-witted Brandon Styles will have you doubling over in your chair. (251) 237-3330 www.brandonstyles.com

Breakout Orange Beach

23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach, 36561

Work together to solve puzzles, crack codes and find hidden items in order to escape in under an hour! Each game is a real-life escape room adventure for small groups of friends, family or coworkers. Take team building to a whole new level! (251) 929-8330 breakoutgames.com/orange-beach

CMX Pinnacle 14

3780 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 (251) 923-0100 www.cmxcinemas.com/Locationdetail/Pinnacle-14-Cinemas

Eastern Shore Lanes

10460 Eastern Shore Blvd Spanish Fort, 36527 Bowling, laser tag, arcade games, ropes course, climbing wall, go-karts, mini golf, birthday parties and more. Visit our website for weekly activity events and hours.

(251) 625-3400 www.eslanes.com

Fairhope United Methodist Church

155 South Section Street Fairhope, 36532

FUMC Christian Life Center is open MondayFriday 8:00am–5:00pm. We have a walking track, fitness room, game room and more. Open to the Public!

(251) 928-1148 www.fairhopeumc.org

Fairways Indoor Golf Club

25000 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, 36527

Fairways houses high definition golf simulators in which players use real clubs and balls to enrich their golf experience no matter what skill or commitment level to the sport of golf.

(251) 621-5277 www.fairwaysindoorgolfclub.com

Fat Daddy’s Arcade

24565 Perdido Beach Blvd Orange Beach, 36561

Fat Daddy’s Arcade is one of the area’s top attractions for family friendly entertainment, featuring

more than 80 arcade games, great prizes, pizza and drinks.

(251) 980-1050 www.fatdaddysarcade.com

Hot Wheels Skate Center

616 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, 36526 Roller skating, birthday parties, private parties, after school care, day camps in summer and holidays.

(251) 626-5120 www.hotwheelsdaphne.com

Jurassic Golf

3800 Gulf Shores Pkwy Gulf Shores, 36542

Welcome to Alabama’s Glow-in-the-Dark Dinosaur Adventure! Featuring 18 holes of prehistoric Family Fun!

(251) 948-0227 www.jurassicgolfgs.com

Outer Limits VR

23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach, 36561

Outer Limits is the ultimate virtual reality arcade. It features five fully immersive rides that offer both single and multiplayer options for you to experience on your own or grab a group of your friends and ride them together. Outer Limits gives you the unimaginable experience of VR gaming along with the thrill of each game. Explore the experience that awaits you. We’ll see you on the other side. (Ages 7+ only)

(251) 240-0647 www.vrfunplays.com

The Gulf Bowl

2881 South Juniper Street Foley, 36535 Bowling, arcade games, hologate, laser tag, birthday parties and more. (251) 943-4575 www.gulfbowl.com

Tortuga Adventure Golf, LLC

30500 State Highway 181, Spanish Fort, 36527 Indoor blacklight adventure golf that takes the players on a journey through the pirate island of Tortuga in the Caribbean. (251) 626-6221 www.tortugaadventuregolf.com

Urban Air Adventure Park

31000 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, 36527 Wall-to-wall trampoline arenas, Dodgeball Courts, Stunt Airbag, Slam Dunk Tracks, Runway Tumble Track, The Tubes Obstacle Course, Urban Warrior Course™ and Warrior Battle Beam. Indoor Ropes Course, Indoor Climbing Walls, Pro Zone Performance Trampoline Pit and Urban Air Sky Rider Indoor Coaster. Enjoy the arcade or a meal at the Urban Cafe. Birthday party packages available. (256) 269-3213 www.urbanairtrampolinepark.com

We Rock the Spectrum

1802 US-98, Suite A Daphne, 36526

We Rock the Spectrum Daphne is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and fun environment to foster learning, exploration and safe sensory experiences. Through our nonprofit My Brother Rocks The Spectrum Foundation, we provide social skills groups and activities for children across the spectrum. (251) 355-6178 werockthespectrumdaphne.com

Golf

Craft Farms Golf Resort –Cypress Bend & Cotton Creek 3840 Cotton Creek Circle Gulf Shores, 36542

Offering 2 public courses with 36 Holes of Palmer Golf award-winning courses. (251) 968-3002 www.craftfarms.com

Glenlakes Golf Club

9530 Clubhouse Drive Foley, 36535

GlenLakes Golf Club features 27 holes of unforgettable golf. (251) 955-1220 www.glenlakesgolf.com

Gulf Shores Golf Club

520 Clubhouse Drive Gulf Shores, 36542

Open to the public with memberships available. (251) 968-7366 www.gulfshoresgolfclub.com

Lake Forest Golf Course

1 Golf Terrace Daphne, 36526

An 18-Hole Golf Course, driving range with chipping and putting green. (251) 626-0788 www.lakeforestdaphne.com/golf

Orange Beach Golf Center

4700 Easy Street Orange Beach, 36561

Follow our Facebook page for summer program information for all ages. (251) 981-4653 www.facebook.com/OBGolfCenter

Quail Creek Golf Course

19841 Quail Creek Drive Fairhope, 36532

An 18 hole golf course. Snack bar, club fitting, driving range, putting and chipping areas. For tee times & fees, call the pro shop. (251) 990-0240 www.fairhopeal.gov/services/quailcreek-golf-course

Rock Creek Golf

140 Clubhouse Drive Fairhope, 36532

Player-friendly course for locals, members and visitors to the area. Ask about our lessons. (251) 928-4223 www.rockcreekgolf.com

Soldiers Creek Golf Club

28341 Preserve Trail Elberta, 36530

Test your accuracy with our fairways, water hazards and sand traps. 18-hole course. (251) 986-8633 www.soldierscreekgolfcourse.com

Timber Creek Golf Course

9650 Timber Creek Boulevard Daphne, 36526 A 27-hole Championship Layout, Full Service Res-

taurant, First Class Practice Facilities. Check with the pro shop for summer program information. (251) 621-9900 www.golftimbercreek.com

Horseback Riding

Blue Horse Farm LLC

41333 County Rd. 39 Bay Minette, 36507

Blue Horse Farm LLC is a full service horse riding school, with lesson horses, show team, summer camps and special events. (251) 322-3977 bluehorsefarmal@gmail.com https://bluehorsefarm.net/

Granato Stables @ Lake Forest Stables

268 Equine Circle Daphne, 36526

Looking for a great family outing? Come on by our Horse Farm! Granato Stables @ Lake Forest Stables is a family friendly farm. We offer riding lessons, trail rides, birthday parties and more. (757) 288-3002 www.lakeforeststables.fun/

Libraries/Storytimes

Page and Palette and The Book Cellar

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32 South Section Street Fairhope, 36532 Story Time (Wednesdays - 10:00am), author events, books, greeting cards, journals, and novelty merchandise. Purchase a coffee or tea from Latte Da or visit The Book Cellar. Visit us on Facebook! (251) 928-5295 books@pageandpalette.com www.pageandpalette.com

Bay Minette Public Library

205 W 2nd St Bay Minette, 36507

Summer Reading Program is back, every Tuesday from June 3-July 8 at 1:00pm at the John F. Rhodes Civic Center. Program schedule: June 3-All Hands Productions puppet show, June 10-Cirque Du Todd, June 17-Freedom Ranch Bird Show, June 24- Cowboy Bruce Brannen, July 1- Magician Bruce Walstad, July 8-Science Lady. (251) 580-1648 www.bayminettepubliclibrary.org/

Daphne Public Library

2607 US Highway 98 Daphne, 36526

Summer reading kickoff-June 2, 10:00am12:00pm at the Daphne Civic Center, the Wow Factor Science Show performs at 10:30am. There will be free food and entertainment. (251) 620-2500 www.daphnelibrary.org

Fairhope Public Library

501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, 36532

Join us for our outdoor Summer Reading Kickoff Party June 4th from 2pm-4pm. For June and July we will have our Big Event Wednesdays at 2pm in the Giddens Room where a different performer will come each week. Starting June 11-July 23 (no performer July 16) 2PM in Giddens Room (251) 929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org

Foley Public Library

319 East Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535

Visit our website or Facebook page for events, activities and updates. (251) 943-7665 www.foleylibrary.org

Loxley Public Library

1001 Loxley Avenue Loxley, 36551

Visit our calendar online or on Facebook for fun summer events and programs. (251) 964-5695 facebook.com/LoxleyPublicLibrary

Marjorie Younce Snook Library

202 W Broadway Avenue Summerdale, 36580 Visit our website for summer activities and summer reading information. (251) 989-2011 www.summerdalelibrary.com

Orange Beach Public Library

26267 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561 Summer Reading Kickoff Party-Splash Bash, May 31 10:30-12:00pm, summer reading starts June 1. (251) 981-2923 www.orangebeachlibrary.gov

Robertsdale Public Library

18301 Pennsylvania Street Robertsdale, 36567 Open Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:30pm. (251) 947-8960 www.robertsdale.org/library

Silverhill Oscar Johnson Library 21967 6th Street Silverhill, 36576 (251) 945-5201 silverhillalabama.com/srvices/#library

Spanish Fort Public Library

7361 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, 36527 Summer Reading June-July-Enjoy Tuesday morning performances/events-10am 6/3-7/22 (all ages) starting with a glow party on 6/3, crafternoonsTuesdays 2pm, adulting 101-visit our calendar for dates (ages 14 and up), afternoon art camp-Thursdays, 2pm and evening programs for teens/adults. (251) 410-READ (7323) spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Thomas B. Norton Public Library

221 West 19th Avenue Gulf Shores, 36542 Summer Reading Program. Join us each Friday at 10:30AM at the Adult Activity Center for a new and exciting performer! June 6, 13, 20, 27, July 11, 18. All ages welcome! Summer Reading packets with reading logs will be given out on June 7th, after that they can be picked up at the library! All ages are welcome, and all programs are FREE to the public. (251) 968-1176 www.gulfshoresal.gov/924/Library

Museums, History, Science & Education

Exploreum Science Center

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65 Government Street Mobile, 36604

8,500-square-foot, hands-on discovery science center with a state-of-the-art PCI Digital Dome

Theater. The Exploreum is an education based attraction focused on STEM learning. (251) 208-6893 marketing@exploreum.com www.exploreum.com

USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park

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2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602

You’ll walk the decks of the Mighty A, our WWII battleship. Explore and see how sailors lived aboard this floating city. Learn about the USS DRUM, the oldest American submarine on public display. See over 30 historic airplanes, vehicles, tanks, a B-25 Mitchell Bomber, and a super-secret spy plane. (251) 433-2703 info@ussalabama.com www.ussalabama.com

Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab

101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528

The Alabama Aquarium’s beautiful visual exhibits and engaging interactive exhibits will help you understand the interactions in Mobile Bay, the fourth-largest estuary system in the United States. (251) 861-2141 www.disl.edu

Colonial Fort Condé

150 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602

Explore the stories of Mobile’s past under French, British, Spanish and American rule at Colonial Fort Conde. Admission is included with admission into the History Museum of Mobile. (251) 544-5480 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Dauphin Island Sea Lab

101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528

State of Alabama’s marine research and education center. Programs include K-12, professional development, undergraduate and graduate, and the Alabama Aquarium. (251) 861-2141 www.disl.edu

Fairhope Museum of History

24 North Section Street Fairhope, 36532

Exhibits of Fairhope’s history including Fairhope’s founders, the Single Tax theory, town jail, Jubilee phenomenon and many other displays. (251) 929-1471 fairhopeal.gov/departments/museum

Flight Works Alabama

2000 Aerospace Dr Mobile, 36615

Explore dozens of interactive exhibits that trace the history of aviation, explain the science of flight, and place you in the pilot seat! Airbus tours, workshops, field trips, and more await you at FWA!

(251) 512-2320 www.flightworksalabama.com

Foley Railroad Museum

125 East Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535

The Depot Museum displays history of the city and the railroad in Foley. Model Train exhibit and trackless train ride. Please visit our website for days and hours.

(251) 943-1818 www.foleyrailroadmuseum.com

Fort Gaines

95 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528

Battle site of Battle of the Bay in 1864. See the battlements and soldiers’ living quarters, used from 1800’s-1946. Lots of fun for families and kids! (251) 861-6992 https://fort-gaines.com/

Holmes Medical Museum

111 West Laurel Avenue Foley, 36535

Step back to 1930s & 40s and see the first clinic & 10 bed hospital in Baldwin County. Self guided tours, free admission.

(251) 970-1818 facebook.com/HolmesMedicalMuseum

Historic Blakeley State Park

34745 State Highway 225 Spanish Fort, 36527

Bring the whole family and enjoy more than 25 miles of trails, educational programs, boat cruises, cabins, RV spots and primitive camping. (251) 626-0798 office@blakeleypark.com www.blakeleypark.com

Orange Beach History Museum

25805 John Snook Drive Orange Beach, 36561

Built in 1910 as a schoolhouse and now houses local, Native American artifacts and fishing memorabilia. View collectibles from the early days of the fishing industry. Open Monday - Friday, 9 am - 4 pm. (251) 981-8545 www.orangebeachal.gov

Swift-Coles Historic Home

17424 Swift-Coles Lane Bon Secour, 36511 Swift-Coles Historic Home-Swift-Coles Historic Home is open to the public for self-guided tours on Fridays, 12pm-6pm. (251) 609-4578 www.SwiftColesHistoricHome.com

The National Maritime Museum of the Gulf

155 South Water Street Mobile, 36602

With over 80 immersive exhibits and interactive, the National Maritime Museum has something for maritime lovers of every age.

(251) 436-8901 https://nmmog.org/

Africatown Heritage House

2465 Winbush St. Mobile, 36610

Clotilda: The Exhibition, a landmark and awardwinning exhibit, is on view at Africatown Heritage House. (251) 206-5268 http://www.clotilda.com/

Naval Aviation Museum

1750 Radford Boulevard Pensacola, 32508

Explore the world’s largest Naval Aviation museum and one of the most-visited museums in the state of Florida. See more than 150 beautifully restored aircraft. Open daily and admission is free. (850) 452-2894 www.navalaviationmuseum.org

The History Museum of Mobile

111 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602

The History Museum of Mobile is an educational and entertaining destination for both adults and

children. As you explore the museum’s galleries, interesting artifacts and fascinating stories will appear around every corner.

(251) 208-7508 www.museumofmobile.com

Marine Education, Nature & Environmental

Bellingrath Gardens and Home

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12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, 36582

Bellingrath Gardens and Home features a 65-acre estate Garden and historic Home, and blooms and beauty year-round. Open daily 8:00am - 5:00pm. (251) 427-3367 bellingrath@bellingrath.org www.bellingrath.org?

ADCNR Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries

Hunting, fishing, youth programs, family events, canoe trails, outdoor activities and state regulations. www.outdooralabama.com

Alabama Birding Trails

Discover a variety of feathered visitors and yearround residents. www.alabamabirdingtrails.com

Back Country Trail

24037 Perdido Beach Blvd Orange Beach, 36561 Butterfly garden, rock climbing, biking, jogging, walking, wildlife, geocaching and more! Trail maps, locations and tour information online. (251) 981-1063 www.gulfshores.com/things-to-do/ hugh-s-branyon-backcountry-trail/

Beach Bike Rentals

4 Market Street Orange Beach, 36561

Beach Bike Rentals offers cruiser bikes, e-bikes, tandems, adult trikes, and children’s bikes (251) 968-1770 beachbikerentalsorangebeach.com

Bicycle Trails

The Baldwin County Trailblazers advocate for improved and expanded walking and biking opportunities in Baldwin County, Alabama. www.baldwincountytrailblazers.org

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

12295 State Highway 180 Gulf Shores, 36542

Visit our website for trail maps, facility openings, and hours.

(251) 540-7720 www.fws.gov/refuge/bon-secour

Environmental Studies Center

6101 Girby Road Mobile, 36693

The Environmental Studies Center is a natural sciences education facility designed to provide unique learning experiences to school children and the general population.

(251) 221-5000 www.mcpsesc.com

Five Rivers Delta Resource Center

30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527

Where the Mobile, Spanish, Tensaw, Apalachee and Blakeley rivers flow into Mobile Bay stands an incredible facility with an exhibit hall, learning center, theater, walking trails, picnic areas, conference center and reception hall. Admission free 7 days a week, 8am-5pm.

(251) 625-0814 www.Alabama5Rivers.com

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Bike Rentals

824 Gulf Shores Pkwy Gulf Shores, 36542

Gulf Shores Bike Rentals is your GO TO #1 Rated source for eBikes, eTrikes, Pedal Bikes, & Kayaks

in Gulf Shores, Alabama! Free Parking with Direct Gulf State Park Access & Little Lagoon Kayak Launch on-site!

(251) 210-9037 gulfshoresbikerentals.com

Infinity Bicycles

Come enjoy beautiful Orange Beach /Gulf Shores and Daphne Alabama on a bike, the only way to truly explore the area and all it has to offer. All of our rentals are from high quality brands such as Trek and are rotated out annually to insure that our customers get the most out of their rental. infinity-bicycles.com/product-list/bike-rentals-1238/

Weeks Bay Plantation Silo Wake & Ski Park

12562 Mary Ann Beach Road Fairhope, 36532

Seasonal u-pick blueberries, produce, flowers & herbs, AirBnB stays, and family friendly water park now open. Silo ski and wake park - www. silowake.com.

(251) 233-1585 www.weeksbayplantation.com

Weeks Bay Visitor Center

11300 U.S. Highway 98 Fairhope, 36532

The Weeks Bay Visitor Center offers the public opportunities to learn about coastal habitats through its exhibits, live animal displays and collections of animals and regional plants. Enjoy self-guiding nature trails.

(251) 928-9792 www.outdooralabama.com/weeksbay-reserve/weeks-bay-visitor-center

Parks

Fairhoper’s Community Park

105 South Church Street Fairhope, 36532

The Community Park features two towering corkscrews slides, a rope-climbing sphere, a musi-

cal-instrument lined sidewalk, nautical-themed equipment along with traditional swings and monkey bars. The splash pad and covered pavilion are located on the south end. (251) 929-1479 www.fairhopeal.gov/community/ parks-recreation/playgrounds

Gulf State Park & Nature Center

20115 State Highway 135 Gulf Shores, 36542 There is something for everyone here. Swimming pool, Kayak and paddleboard rentals, Fishing, and bike rentals, bike sharing, parasailing, beach services, Geocaching, camps and weekly activities for everyone. Visit our website for activity calendar.

(251) 948-7275 www.alapark.com/gulf-state-park

Meaher State Park

5200 Battleship Parkway E Spanish Fort, 36527 Day-use, picnicking, camping hook-ups, boat ramp and fishing pier. Self-guided nature trails with boardwalk.

(251) 626-5529 alapark.com/parks/meaher-state-park

Spanish Fort Town Center Park & Splash Pad

29000 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, 36527 Pavilion, splash pad, and more. Please call or check our website for splash pad hours. (214) 561-8884 www.spanishforttowncenter.com

Town of Dauphin Island Parks & Recreation

1011 Bienville Blvd. Dauphin Island, 36528 Many activities to choose from such as the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, Boating, Camping, Fishing, Fort Gaines, Kayaking, Public beach access, Trails and more!

(251) 861-5525 www.townofdauphinisland.org/ parks-and-recreation

Recreation Centers

Bay Minette Recreation Complex 611 McMeans Avenue Bay Minette, 36507 Classes, sports and more. Seasonal city league basketball, softball, soccer, football, swim team and youth cheerleading. (251) 580-2546 teamsideline.com/bayminette

Bounds Family YMCA

8051 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, 36526

Promoting healthy kids, families and communities by offering activities and programs for wellness and family fun. (251) 626-0888 www.ysal.org

Daphne Recreation Center

2605 US Highway 98 Daphne, 36526

From parks and trails to youth and adult sports leagues, fitness and dance classes to music and special community events, we strive to offer you a variety of opportunities to maintain an active lifestyle in the City of Daphne. (251) 620-2700 www.daphneal.com/229/Recreation

David L. Bodenhamer Rec Center

310 West 19th Avenue Gulf Shores, 36542

Instructional classes, swim lessons, swim teams and recreation programs. Call or visit us online for schedules, membership and activity updates. Follow our Facebook page! (251) 968-1420 www.gulfshoresal.gov/1162/DavidL-Bodenhamer-Recreation-Center

Fairhope Rec Center

803 North Greeno Road Fairhope, 36532

Fitness rooms, classes, spin, gymnasium, racquetball court, walking track, activity room, sauna, dressing facilities, and nursery. Membership information available online or at the Rec Center. (251) 928-7270 www.fairhopeal.gov/living/parksand-recreation/recreation-center-pool

Foley Parks and Recreation Dept.

121 North Alston Street Foley, 36535

The Foley Parks & Recreation Department proudly maintains a variety of beautiful parks and facilities throughout Foley. These include baseball, softball, soccer, and football fields, as well as tennis and basketball courts, swimming pools, playgrounds, and scenic hiking and biking trails. (251) 970-5020 foleyrecreation.com/parks-facilities/

Orange Beach Rec Center

4849 Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach, 36561 Gymnasium, fitness room, multipurpose, indoor pickleball courts, and more. (251) 981-6028 www.orangebeachal.gov/380/ Recreation-Center-and-Expect-Excellence

Sport Entertainment

Top Golf

1250 Satchel Paige Dr Mobile, 36606

Enjoy our climate-controlled hitting bays for year-round comfort with HDTVs in every bay and throughout our sports bar and restaurant. Using our complimentary clubs or your own, take aim at the giant outfield targets and our high-tech balls will score themselves. (251) 910-0152 www.topgolf.com/us/mobile/

Swimming

Fairhope Rec Center Pool

803 North Greeno Road Fairhope, 36532 Fairhope Recreation Center & Municipal Pool is a membership based community center. Swim lessons, Swim team, party rental. (251) 990-0175 www.fairhopeal.gov/living/parksand-recreation/recreation-center-pool

Foley Recreation Swim

300 West Roosevelt Street Foley, 36535 Swim lessons offered throughout the summer at Max Griffin Pool. Summer swim programs, teams, hours, pricing and schedules are listed on our website. (251) 943-7946 foleyrecreation.com/swimming

Lake Forest Swim

197 Country Club Drive Daphne, 36526

We are a summer swim community for ages 4-18, where we cultivate a love for swimming, foster friendships, and strive for personal bests in a supportive and fun environment. (251) 626-0788 lakeforestswim.swimtopia.com/

Orange Beach Aquatics Center

4853 Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach, 36561 Junior olympic swimming pool, diving well, tube slide and wading pool with spray and waterfall. Swimming lessons, water aerobics and more. (251) 974-7946 www.orangebeachal.gov/224/ Aquatics-Center

Tennis

George C. Myers Tennis Center

2049 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, 36542 Pro-shop, 6 soft courts, 12 hard courts and an indoor clubhouse. Please call for clinic and lesson information. Pickleball-12 courts of play at Gulf Shores Cultural Center (19470 Oak Road West).

(251) 968-1431 www.gulfshoresal.gov/1129/Tennis

Lake Forest Summer Tennis

197 Country Club Dr Daphne, 36526

Get your kids involved in Tennis today! We offer classes and programs for all ages and skill levels. Whether you are looking for beginner classes for 5 year olds or advanced junior training, Uber Junior Tennis has you covered.

(251) 648-3952 www.uberjuniortennis.com

Mike Ford Tennis Center

600 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, 36532

15 lighted Tennis Courts, 12 Pickle Ball Courts, Backboard and an outdoor lighted walking track. Full time Kids and Adult tennis programs and pickleball classes.

(251) 990-9526 www.fairhopeal.gov/community/ sports-complexes/tennis

Orange Beach Tennis Center

4851 Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach, 36561

The Tennis Center offers youth, adult and senior adult tennis programs. (251) 974-6387 www.facebook.com/orangebeachtenniscenter/

Water Fun, Sailing Cruises, and Tours

Airboat Adventures

3775 Battleship Pkwy Spanish Fort, 36527

Take an Adventure Ride with Airboat Adventures in the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta. Bring the kids, your family, and closest friends! (251) 680-4477 www.airboatadventures.net

Airboat Express

3733 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort, 36527

Take a tour with us and experience a treat for the Whole family! Please call for reservations. (251) 370-7089 www.airboatexpress.com

Alabama State Lands Canoe Trails

We offer canoeists and kayakers alike the ability to explore the State’s unique natural resources while providing paddlers with opportunities for both day and over-night trips. (251) 625-0814 www.alabamacanoetrails.com

Dauphin Island Marina

650 LeMoyne Drive Dauphin Island, 36528

Dauphin Island Marina is a full-service marina. We also charter fishing trips, sunset cruises, boat rentals and tours. (251) 861-2201 www.townofdauphinisland.org/ things-to-do/dauphin-island-marina

Delta Explorer Boat Cruises

34745 State Highway 225 Spanish Fort, 36527

Explore the areas natural habitat including Delta adventure cruise, Port of Mobile cruise, Civil War on the Eastern Shore, lunch and sunset cruises. Book your adventure online at Blakeleypark.com/ Cruises. (251) 626-0798 www.blakeleypark.com/Cruises

Dolphin Cruises - Cold Mil Fleet

5749 Bay La Launch Ave Orange Beach, 36561 We offer daytime and sunset cruises for groups,

private cruises, field trips, birthdays, and more. Visit our website for cruise times, prices and booking.

(251) 943-3510 www.dolphincruises.com

Dolphins Down Under

28101 Perdido Beach Blvd Orange Beach, 36561 Dolphin tours, Sunset Trips and Private Boat Charter. (251) 968-4386 www.dolphinsdownunder.net

Down Under Dive Shop

1129 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542

Snorkeling Tours, Scuba Instruction, SUP, Kayaking, Scuba certification, CPR, diver rescue, open water courses, excursions, e-bikes, and more! Visit us online to book an activity. (251) 968-3483 Info@dolphinsdownunder.net www.downunderdiveshop.com

Fairhope Boat Company

702 N Section St Fairhope, 36532

Canoes, Kayaks and Sailing Gear. Our experienced staff can answer all your questions from what type of boat to the best locations to see nature. We also offer guided trips to the Mobile Delta and surrounding areas. (251) 928-3417 https://fairhopeboat.com/

Go Go Kayaks

Gulf Shores, 36542

Go Go Kayaks rents kayaks, paddle boards, games and more. We deliver fun. (251) 752-7529 www.gogokayaks.com

Mobile Bay Ferry

51 State Highway 180 Dauphin Island, 36528

The Mobile Bay Ferry connects two of the Gulf Coast’s most beautiful and historic landmarks with a safe and scenic experience. (251) 861-3000 www.mobilebayferry.com

Pirate Ship Cruises and Alabama Cruises

4575 South Wilson Blvd Orange Beach, 36561 Pirate ship cruises, fishing charters, dolphin cruises, pontoon boats, jet ski and kayak rentals, dinner cruises and more. (251) 981-4127 www.hudsonmarina.net

Sailaway Charters

24231 Gulf Bay Road Orange Beach, 36561

Offering family type 2 and 3 hour nature cruises (oyster, crab, and, shrimping) or do inshore fishing within protected waters. Please call for booking. Max.6 passengers. (251) 974-5055 skip@sailorskip.com www.sailorskip.com

Styx River Tube and Canoe Rental

26091 Waterworld Road Robertsdale, 36567 Canoe, Kayak and Tube rentals. Visit our website for trip options and prices. (251) 960-1161 www.styxrivertubing.com/

Underwater Works, Inc.

24208 US Highway 98 Fairhope, 36532

UnderWater Works specializes in scuba diving instruction offering SSI open water diver courses. If you need scuba equipment, we are your store. (251) 928-5550 www.alabamadive.com

Waterville USA

906 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 Waterville USA offers you 20-acres of fun through our waterpark, amusement park and escape rooms. (251) 948-2106 www.watervilleusa.com

Wind and Water Learning Center

26233 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561

If you are looking for a fun summer adventure, check out the special activities and events held at the Wind and Water Learning Center. Many different sailing and paddling Programs. (251) 424-5909 www.orangebeachal.gov/386/WindWater-Learning-Center

Perdido Queen Ships, Secrets, & Summer Fun: A Paddlewheel Adventure!

1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602

Climb aboard our authentic paddlewheel riverboat for a one-of-a-kind port tour featuring the iconic SS United States! Enjoy live narration, exciting ship views, and family-friendly storytelling that brings maritime history to life. This summer, catch our swashbuckling Pirate Show or join the evening mystery cruise—where twists and laughs await! Perfect for curious kids and adventurous parents. (251) 948-6611 www.perdidoqueen.com ESP

on the Eastern Shore

Town of Summerdale

Independence Day Celebration

Town of Summerdale will host their annual Independence Day Celebration on June 28 at Pioneer Park in Summerdale. Festivities begin at 10am and will featrre live music, food trucks, arts & crafts vendors, car show, jeep show, tractor show, inflatables, family fun! Fireworks at 9PM. For updates follow Summerdale Events page on Facebook.

Independence Day Street Party

Beachball Properties invites you to join them on Wednesday, July 2, from 5pm9pm, as they celebrate with red, white and FUN. There will be family friendly activities in the Entertainment District including a bubble truck, bounce houses, face painting ($10), camel rides ($10), Photo 360 Booth, Reptile Bus, DJ Matt spinning dancing tunes, special appearances by Lady Liberty, Uncle Sam + so much more. We’ll end the night with the palm trees dancing in patriotic colors and a grand fireworks show. National Anthem and Fireworks at 8:45pm. All of the fun will be presented by Beachball Properties.

Baldwin Pops and City of Fairhope Independence Day Celebration

Come celebrate our nation’s independence with a concert from the Baldwin Pops who will be playing patriotic tunes and crowd favorites, followed by a live performance of marches to accompany the City of Fairhope fireworks display. For this concert, come early and bring your best picnic set up because awards will be given for the best picnic display and Baldwin Pops will have a raffle for a chance to conduct the band! The concert begins at 7:30 pm and will be located at Henry George Park in Fairhope. Fireworks begin at approximately 9pm. As a reminder, this is an alcohol-free event, and no personal fireworks are permitted. For more information on Fairhope’s Fourth of July Fireworks display call 251-929-1474.

City of Daphne Fourth of July Fireworks

Join us for Daphne’s annual Fourth of July Fireworks on Friday, July 4th, 2025 at Al Trione Sports Complex located at 8600 Whispering Pines Road. Fireworks begin at

9:00 PM. Returning this year will be patriotic music to accompany our fireworks show. This is a free event.

4th of July Celebration at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park

Join us on July 4, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. to celebrate Independence Day at USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park. This free, family-friendly event offers delicious food from various food trucks, interactive games and activities, live music by Tip Tops and Fly By Radio, and FIREWORKS! For additional event details, please visit www. cityofmobile.org/events.

City of Robertsdale Fireworks Display

The City of Robertsdale is excited to once again host its Annual 4th of July Fireworks around 9pm at Garrett Park, located at 18080 Pennsylvania St, Robertsdale. Bring blankets or lawn chairs as families, friends, and neighbors gather to celebrate this patriotic occasion.

City of Gulf Shores to Hold Independence Day Celebration

The City of Gulf Shores will celebrate the Fourth of July with a stunning fireworks display, set to begin at 9 p.m. on July 4. Fireworks will be shot from the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier. Spectators are encouraged to gather at the Gulf State Park and the eastern area of the Gulf Shores Public Beach for the best viewing experience. Those who plan to view the fireworks from Gulf State Park are encouraged to use the parking areas at the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier, Lake Shelby, and the Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion.

Bay Minette Rotary to Host Fireworks Show July 3

The Bay Minette Rotary Club will once again sponsor a spectacular fireworks show this year! The fireworks display will take place July 3, at approximately 9pm at the Bay Minette Sports Complex, 1310 W. 13th Street. There will be parking available at the complex and the parking lots at nearby Bay Minette Middle and Baldwin County High schools.

There's a Story Here... There's a Story Here...

By Anderson McKean By Anderson McKean

InvestiGATORS InvestiGATORS by John Patrick Green by John Patrick Green

This goofy graphic novel series follows the super spy alligator duo the InvestiGators as they travel through the sewers and fight the forces of evil. With their gadgets and know-how, Mango and Brash are the scourge of the super-villain landscape! As part of the Special Undercover Investigation Teams, they solve mysteries and butt heads with their archnemesis!

Real

Pigeons Fight Crime Real Pigeons Fight Crime by Andrew McDonald by Andrew McDonald

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s—wait, it really IS a bird! Take another look, because what looks like an ordinary pigeon might just be a hero saving your fanny! Meet the crime-fighting pigeons secretly flying around chasing bad guys in this hilarious illustrated series perfect for fans of Bad Guys and Dog Man!

The Last Kids on Earth The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier by Max Brallier

Ever since the monster apocalypse hit town, Jack has been living in his tree house, which he's armed with catapults and a moat. But Jack alone is no match for hordes of Zombies and the eerily intelligent monster, Blarg. Jack builds a team of his best friends, and together they plan to slay Blarg and achieve the ultimate Feat of Apocalyptic Succes!

Katie the Catsitter Katie the Catsitter by Colleen AF Venable by Colleen AF Venable

When Katie gets a job catsitting for her mysterious neighbor, life get interesting. Madeline has 217 cats and they're not exactly normal cats. Also, why is Madeline always out EXACTLY when the city's most notorious villain commits crimes? Could Katie's upstairs neighbor really be a super villain? Some heroes have capes...Katie has cats!

When my first child was born 13 years ago I was thrilled to be a mom and so in love with my son. My husband and I had decided that I would become a stay-at-home mom and I was looking forward to all the time I could spend with my son. After a few months of adjusting to becoming a mom, I started to feel lonely. I had given up my job, and while I was still head over heels in love with my boy, something vital felt missing.

I realized quickly that it was...Adult Interaction!

Whether you are a working mom or stay at home, have one child or five children, whether you are struggling through the exhausting days and sleepless nights of babies and toddlers or the busy schedules of school age kids, you need a crew. Many moms define their crew as other women who understand where they are in life without having to explain a single thing. They get you, they accept you, and they cheer you on as you struggle your way through it. If you are feeling lonely and are seeking a friend, or two, to laugh and cry with through your current stage of motherhood, I encourage you to find your crew.

Here are a few places to start.

Be open and accepting

The first step to finding authentic people that you can relate to and build lasting relationships with is to be your authentic self. When you are an open, honest, and accepting person, you will encourage others to behave the same. Be yourself, listen to what others have to say, accept others for who they are, and relationships will happen organically. It can be uncomfortable, scary even, to put yourself out there but the relationships far outweigh the risk when you find true friends.

Common interests

There are times where finding people to start friendships with can be challenging. Especially when you have a big life change like a move, becoming a parent, or changing jobs. Take inventory of what you love to do or what groups are already existing that you could join. For example, if you love running, join a running club. If you love to read, join or start a book club. If you are a mom, join a playgroup or a mother’s group at a local church. Does the PTO at your school need help? Would you consider being a soccer coach or Boy Scout leader? All of these examples are great ways to get involved in your community and make friends along the way.

After the birth of our triplets, I joined an online group of triplet moms. Four years later, I am surprised to say that they are some of my closest friends and one of my biggest support systems.

Give support and ask for it

One of the main things that makes a crew so important is the support given and received during the times when it is needed most. When my daughter was hospitalized for several weeks, my mother’s group supplied meals, gave my other kids rides to and from school, helped with childcare, sent flowers and cards, and basically kept my family going when my husband and I couldn’t have done it on our own. They would not have known how to help if I hadn’t reached out to them and asked.

Asking for help can be hard for people who are used to managing the family and are good at it too, but remember that during difficult times friends want to help. Just ask. Conversely, it can be such a blessing to help others when they need it. Giving a ride to school, making a little extra food to share, sending a text, or talking with a friend when they need a listening ear doesn’t take much extra effort.

Finding your crew can mean pushing yourself to step outside your comfort zone and reach out to others. While it is difficult to do at first, once you find a group of friends that understand and support you, it is well worth the time and effort put in to build and strengthen those relationships.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and contributes articles to numerous parenting publications.

FamilyCalendar

Sunday June 1

The Battle Of Fort Charlotte At Colonial Fort Conde (Free)

1:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Colonial Fort Conde, 150 South Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 On Sunday, June 1st, guests are invited to witness the actual battle told from the point of view of the British officers and soldiers inside Fort Charlotte. The reenactment by our own living history interpreters and other living history groups from the West Florida Militia and the 60th Royal Regiment will take place at 2:30 p.m. in the Fort Conde courtyard and will last around 45 minutes. Guests will be able to interact with the living history interpreters before and after the reenactment between 1:00 - 5:00pm. www.historymuseumofmobile.com/the-battle-of-fortcharlotte-at-colonial-fort-conde

Tyler Childers in Concert

8:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Tyler Childers with special guest S.G Goodman are coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on June 1, 2025! https://alwharf.com/events

Monday June 2

Daphne Public Library Summer Reading Kickoff 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Daphne Public Library Summer Reading Kickoff-come pick up your summer reading bag filled with everything you will need to participate. Enjoy free hotdogs, cookies and chips. Entertainment at 10:30 provided by the Wow Factor Science Show. Prize raffle at 12pm. 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Tuesday June 3

City of Fairhope Hurricane Preparedness Event with Meteorologist James Spann

10:00 AM Fairhope Civic Center, Fairhope, AL, 36532 City of Fairhope Hurricane Preparedness Event with Meteorologist James Spann – Includes light lunch @ Fairhope Civic Center

Sand, Songs, & Cinema

6:30 PM Gulf Place, Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Residents and guests are invited to join us at Gulf Place for a FREE concert and Movie! Concerts begin at 6:30 p.m., and movies will follow immediately after at 7:30 p.m. All concerts and movies will be on the Town Green at West Gulf Place. www.gulfshoresal.gov/1417/Annual-Events

Wednesday June 4

Eleanor Brindle Storytime

10:00 AM Page & Palette, 32 S Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 This June parents seeking a meaningful way to connect with their newborns will find the perfect companion in the new board book by crisis interventionist, humanitarian, and author-illustrator Eleanor Brindle. THE FIRST DAYS blends highcontrast, brain-boosting artwork with heartfelt words to create a beautifully crafted book that nurtures connection and supports early development during those precious first moments with a newborn. 251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com

Fairhope Summer Reading Kick-Off Party

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Behind the Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532

Summer Reading Kick-Off Party: Wednesday, June 4th

2PM-4PM outside behind the Fairhope Library www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Kulture Klub

5:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 6/4: Custom Keychain Charms (Ages 12-18 years) 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Friday June 6

ESCMF 2025 Concert

6:00 PM Eastern Shore Art Center, 401 Oak Ave Fairhope, AL, 36532 ESCMF 2025: SEA LEVEL ESCMF is back for an thrilling third season of chamber music along the Mobile Bay! Join us for Fairhope June Art Walk at the Eastern Shore Art Center with some violin and cello fiddle music performed by Sahada Buckley and Trace Johnson as well as some chamber music classics performed by ESCMF week 2 performing artists. www.escmf.org

Saturday June 7

Manatee Habitat Cruise from Mobile

9:00 AM Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 Come along as we explore this area’s manatee habitat. Staff from the Dauphin Island Sea Lab join us as we discover why these reclusive animals like our area waterways, and what draws them to particular areas. We will also learn more about the lives of these gentle creatures as we keep an eye out for the chance at a rare sighting. www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

Dog Days of Summer

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Foley American Legion, 8101 S McKenzie Foley, AL, 36535 Dog Expo/Adoption and Veterans Event. Dogs for adoption, Red, White, and Blue Patriotic dog parade, Raffle, dog demonstration from Trainers, K9 dogs from Military, Police, Service dogs, Search and Rescue, Cadaver dogs; craft and retail vendor booths, food and beverage. All dogs must be on 6 ft leashed and have shots. Questions:elyseevents7@gmail.com www. MCLDET1370.org. https://facebook.com/events/s/ dog-days-of-summer-event/176797689739305/ 720-429-1037 elyseevents7@gmail.com http://www.mcldet1370.org/

Living History Crew Drill

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602

Come see history come to life with our WWII reenactors during the Living History Crew Drill. Interact with historical WWII reenactors aboard the USS ALABAMA and USS DRUM. These historical reenactors, dressed in WWII period Navy uniforms, demonstrate what life aboard ship was like during wartime. They share stories from our original crewmen, conduct weapons briefings, and demonstrate drills while aboard ship www.ussalabama.com

Dog Days of Summer a Marine Corp League MODD event

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 2102 S. McKenzie St Foley, AL, 36535 Join us for a day filled with fun, patriotism, and community spirit! Meet adorable adoptable dogs, enjoy a Red, White & Blue Patriotic Dog Parade, and take part in exciting raffles. Watch impressive demonstrations from expert trainers, K9 police units, service dogs, search-and-rescue teams, and cadaver dogs. Browse craft and retail vendor booths, savor delicious food and beverages, and enjoy live music throughout the day. www.southbaldwinchamber.com

Mobile Harbor Tour Featuring the SS United States

12:30 PM Mobile Convention Center Dock, Mobile, AL, 36602 This two-hour journey through the busy Port of Mobile will introduce guests to the incredible modern facilities and rich history of the city’s harbor. Along the way we will get a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get a close waterside view of the venerable SS United States, the fastest ocean liner to ever cross the Atlantic and the largest passenger ship ever built entirely in this country.

www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

Hank Williams Jr in Concert

6:30 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Hank Williams Jr with special guest Nitty Gritty Dirt Band is coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on June 7 as part of the 2025 C Spire Concert Series!

https://alwharf.com/events

ESCMF 2025 Concert

7:30 PM Coastal Alabama Community College, 440 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 ESCMF 2025: SEA LEVEL ESCMF is back for an thrilling third season of chamber music along the Mobile Bay! ESCMF concerts are free and open to the public with a suggested donation. www.escmf.org

14th Annual Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament

The Mobile Big Game Fishing Club at Orange Beach Marina, Orange Beach, AL All proceeds this year will benefit Wilmer Hall Children’s Home in Mobile. www.wilmerhall.org/events/kyser-fishing

14th Annual Children’s Cup Regatta

Fairhope Yacht Club, Fairhope, AL, 36532 The annual Children’s Cup Regatta, a family-friendly event supporting patients from the Alabama Gulf Coast who receive care at Children’s of Alabama, is set to unfold on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at the Fairhope Yacht Club. The kids’ activity area, known as “Al’s Activity Area” in honor of local Children’s patient Al Guarisco, opens at 4 p.m. and features a slide, arts and crafts, and games. As a family-friendly event, the Regatta invites guests to immerse themselves in an array of activities for all ages. Goers can anticipate exciting races, with admission being free of charge starting at noon. Throughout the afternoon, a variety of engaging activities await, including bidding on silent auction items, enjoying the kids’ activity area, and live music. http://give.childrensal.org/childrenscup

Sunday June 8

World Ocean Day 2025

12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 15500 Perdido Key Drive Perdido Key, FL, 32507 This open house-style event is designed to bring the community together to celebrate World Ocean Day and highlight the amazing work of the environmental and conservation groups in our area. It’s a chance for people of all ages to connect, explore, and learn about the efforts being made to protect our oceans, wildlife, and natural resources. https://business.visitperdido.com/events/details/2025world-ocean-day-39015?calendarMonth=2025-06-01

ESCMF 2025 Concert

2:30 PM St. Francis at the Point Anglican Church , 17280 Scenic Hwy 98 Point Clear, AL, 36564 ESCMF 2025: SEA LEVEL ESCMF is back for an thrilling third season of chamber music along the Mobile Bay!

FamilyCalendar

ESCMF concerts are free and open to the public with a suggested donation. www.escmf.org

Monday June 9

Orange Beach Performing Arts Center-

The Lion King Jr. Auditions

5:00 PM Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Orange Beach Performing Arts Center-The Lion King Jr. Auditions www.facebook.com/OBPerformingArtsCenter

Thursday June 12

Glow in the Park Summer Movie: Finding Nemo 8:00 PM Fairhopers Community Park, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Glow in the Park Summer Movie: Finding Nemo @ Fairhopers Community Park

Friday June 13

ESCMF 2025 Concert

7:30 PM St. James Episcopal Church, 860 N Section St Fairhope, AL, 36532 ESCMF 2025: SEA LEVEL ESCMF is back for an thrilling third season of chamber music along the Mobile Bay! ESCMF concerts are free and open to the public with a suggested donation. www.escmf.org

Saturday June 14

Home and Food Expo

8:00 AM - 2:00 PM, John. Rhodes Civic Center, 301 D’Olive Ave. Bay Minette, AL, 36507 We are bringing business with services and products specifically designed for home improvement, decoration, and now, culinary enjoyment at home to our North Baldwin and surrounding area residents.

https://cca.northbaldwinchamber.com/

Annual Corn Festival

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen’s Market, 781 Farmer Market Ln. Foley, AL, 36535 All your favorite vendors selling the freshest flavors of the season including lots of corn, seafood and artisan creations. New this year is our Corny Dad Cook-Off! Three local cooks, who also happen to be dads, will compete to see who the public thinks made the best dish featuring corn as a main ingredient. There will be kids activities, an all ages corn eating contest and so much more!

https://visitfoley.com/event/annual-corn-festival/

Mobile Bay and the Eastern Shore Cruise

9:00 AM Five Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Experience a unique look at beautiful Mobile Bay and the scenic Eastern Shore on this relaxing voyage past the charming towns of Spanish Fort, Daphne, Montrose, and Fairhope and down to the historic Middle Bay Lighthouse. Catch a glimpse of venerable Point Clear, Gaillard Island, and amazing local wildlife including on occasion alligators and dolphins! www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

Anchor Cross Cancer Foundation to Host Sixth Annual Masquerade Ball

6:00 PM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 Hwy. 98 Daphne, AL, 36526 This spectacular event aims to raise funds to support local cancer patients in Mobile and Baldwin Counties, providing vital financial assistance to those currently undergoing cancer treatment. Following the success of last year’s Masquerade Ball, which saw a significant increase in participation and raised over $75,000, the ACCF is ready to make this year’s event even more impactful. All proceeds will directly benefit

cancer patients in our community, helping to alleviate the financial burden of treatment and allowing them to focus solely on their health and recovery. https://link.edgepilot.com

ESCMF 2025 Concert

7:30 PM Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship, 1150 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 ESCMF 2025: SEA LEVEL ESCMF is back for an thrilling third season of chamber music along the Mobile Bay! ESCMF concerts are free and open to the public with a suggested donation. www.escmf.org

Sunday June 15

Mobile Harbor Tour Featuring the SS United States

10:00 AM Mobile Convention Center Dock, Mobile, AL, 36602 This two-hour journey through the busy Port of Mobile will introduce guests to the incredible modern facilities and rich history of the city’s harbor. Along the way we will get a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get a close waterside view of the venerable SS United States, the fastest ocean liner to ever cross the Atlantic and the largest passenger ship ever built entirely in this country.

www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

ESCMF 2025 Concert

2:30 PM St. Francis at the Point Anglican Church , 17280 Scenic Hwy 98 Point Clear, AL, 36564 ESCMF 2025: SEA LEVEL ESCMF is back for an thrilling third season of chamber music along the Mobile Bay! ESCMF concerts are free and open to the public with a suggested donation. www.escmf.org

Tuesday June 17

Air Race Classic

7:00 AM H. L. “Sonny” Callahan Airport, County Road 32 Fairhope, AL, 36532 The 48th Air Race Classic (ARC) will be held June 17-20, 2025. Women pilots from across the United States and around the world will take off Tuesday, June 17, from H.L. “Sonny” Callahan Airport in Fairhope, Alabama, for a 2,426 statute mile competition across 9 states that ends Friday, June 20, 2025, at Felts Field in Spokane, Washington. https://business.eschamber.com/

Wednesday June 18

Jammin’ Piano Kids

10:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Jammin’ Piano Kids with Steinway Piano Gallery for ages 3-5. 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Kulture Klub

5:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 6/18: Mini Candy Tin Bookshelf (Ages 12-18 years) 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Friday June 20

Excursion to the SS United States Featuring Historian John Sledge

12:30 PM Mobile Convention Center Dock, Mobile, AL, 36602 This one-hour excursion showcases the historic SS United States, temporarily docked in the Port of Mobile. Esteemed historian John Sledge, who works with the National Maritime Museum, will introduce guests to this iconic landmark of our nation’s marine heritage, sharing stories about its designers, builders, passengers, and devoted enthusiasts. www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

Kansas & 38 Special

7:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Kansas & 38 Special are coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on June 20 as part of the 2025 C Spire Concert Series! https://alwharf.com/events

Mobile Harbor Sunset Cruise

7:15 PM Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 Get a rare view of Mobile’s historic and busy waterfront and catch a stunning sunset at the head of the bay! www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

The Olivia Show: A Tribute to Olivia Newton John & Grease

7:30 PM OWA Theater, Foley, AL, 36535 Feel the nostalgia and energy of Olivia NewtonJohn in an tribute that will have you singing and dancing all night! The Olivia Show: A Tribute to Olivia Newton-John & Grease takes the stage at OWA Theater on June 20th. Featuring the incredible Sabrina Plaisance Sia, this tribute celebrates Olivia’s iconic career, bringing her beloved hits to life on stage. https://visitowa.com/the-olivia-show/

Saturday June 21

Raptors of the Delta Cruise

9:00 AM Historic Blakeley State Park, Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Learn all about some of the most famous winged residents of the Delta on this two-hour journey through one of the richest bird habitats in the nation.

www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

Gulf Coast Home and Outdoor Expo

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Find everything you need to make your house feel like home. Join us on June 21, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Daphne Civic Center. wkrg.com/gulf-coast-home-and-outdoor-expo-landing/

Mobile Harbor Tour Featuring SS United States 1:00 PM Mobile Convention Center Dock, Mobile, AL, 36602 This two-hour journey through the busy Port of Mobile will introduce guests to the incredible modern facilities and rich history of the city’s harbor. Along the way we will get a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get a close waterside view of the venerable SS United States, the fastest ocean liner to ever cross the Atlantic and the largest passenger ship ever built entirely in this country.

www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

Kate Wood - Signing Saturday

1:00 PM Page & Palette, 32 S Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join us at Page & Palette for Signing Saturday! On Saturday, June 21st at 1PM, Kate Wood will be here to sign her book, I Dream For You. Enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine as you visit Kate’s table and connect with the author of this religious children’s book We hope to see you there! 251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com

Ovation Gala

7:00 PM Fairhope Civic Center, 161 North Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join the Baldwin Pops for our annual fundraising event and enjoy dinner, dancing and a silent auction. This event will feature live music from the Mobile Big Band Society. The event will also include door prizes, a dance competition open to anyone, best dressed awards, a cash bar with beer/wine, and a coffee bar.

www.eventbrite.com/e/ovation-gala-2025-benefitingthe-baldwin-pops-tickets-1357632357929

FamilyCalendar

Thursday June 26

Shark Fest

2:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Gulf State Park Saltwater Pier, 20800 East Beach Boulevard Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Shark Fest, an exciting three-day event at the Gulf State Park Pier! Throughout the event, you’ll have the chance to hear from leading shark researchers who will share their expertise and insights into shark conservation and biology. Watch live shark dissections, examine an impressive collection of shark bones and teeth, and learn about the diverse species that inhabit our gulf. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, including interactive educational crafts and activities, exciting face painting, and the chance to get hands-on with a live ray touch tank!

https://reserve.alapark.com/register/shark-fest-2025

The City of Orange Beach Expect Excellence Music Department Presents Dream On 7:00 PM Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The City of Orange Beach Expect Excellence Music Department will present their Summer 2025 edition of “Dream On” June 26-28 at the Orange Beach Performing Arts Center. “Dream On” is a tribute show dedicated to some of the greatest music of all time. There’s something for everyone to enjoy. Come and rock out to this City of Orange Beach original production!

www.orangebeachal.gov/423/Performing-Arts-Center

Friday June 27

Shark Fest

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Gulf State Park Saltwater Pier, 20800 East Beach Boulevard Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Shark Fest, an exciting three-day event at the Gulf State Park Pier! Throughout the event, you’ll have the chance to hear from leading shark researchers who will share their expertise and insights into shark conservation and biology. Watch live shark dissections, examine an impressive collection of shark bones and teeth, and learn about the diverse species that inhabit our gulf. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, including interactive educational crafts and activities, exciting face painting, and the chance to get handson with a live ray touch tank!

https://reserve.alapark.com/register/shark-fest-2025

Girls Night Out

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Belforest Pointe, 26503 AL-181 Daphne, AL, 36526 Grab your girls and join us for a fun-filled evening of dancing, shopping, sipping, raffles, food trucks and mingling while supporting a great cause!

GNODaphne.com

The City of Orange Beach Expect Excellence Music Department Presents Dream On 7:00 PM Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The City of Orange Beach Expect Excellence Music Department will present their Summer 2025 edition of “Dream On” June 26-28 at the Orange Beach Performing Arts Center. “Dream On” is a tribute show dedicated to some of the greatest music of all time. There’s something for everyone to enjoy. www.orangebeachal.gov/423/Performing-Arts-Center

Thomas Rhett in Concert

7:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Thomas Rhett with special guests Tucker Wetmore and The Castellows are com-

ing to The Wharf Amphitheater on June 28 as part of the 2025 C Spire Concert Series! https://alwharf.com/events

Saturday June 28

International Mud Day

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Graham Creek Nature Preserve Archery Park, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 International Mud Day is one of our favorites around here! We have a huge pit full of mud and we open it up for anyone and everyone to play in. Come join us at the pavilion area and don’t forget your towel and extra set of clothes! https://grahamcreekpreserve.org/park-events/

The Day the Crayons Made FriendsCharacter Story Time

10:00 AM Page & Palette, 32 S Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 The Day the Crayons Made Friends - Character Story Time. Bring a friend and make some new ones as you take a photo with a Crayons costume character, listen to a special storytime reading of their new book, help color a giant poster full of hilarious Crayons art, and take part in other fun activities perfect for sparking community and imagination. Hope to see you there! 251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com

Shark Fest

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Gulf State Park Saltwater Pier, 20800 East Beach Boulevard Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Shark Fest, an exciting three-day event at the Gulf State Park Pier! Throughout the event, you’ll have the chance to hear from leading shark researchers who will share their expertise and insights into shark conservation and biology. Watch live shark dissections, examine an impressive collection of shark bones and teeth, and learn about the diverse species that inhabit our gulf. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, including interactive educational crafts and activities, exciting face painting, and the chance to get handson with a live ray touch tank! https://reserve.alapark.com/register/shark-fest-2025

Town of Summerdale Independence Day Celebration

10:00 AM - Fireworks at 9 PM, Pioneer Park, 110 E Jackson Ave Summerdale, AL, 36580 Live music, food trucks, arts & crafts vendors, car show, jeep show, tractor show, inflatables, family fun! Fireworks at 9PM. For updates follow Summerdale Events page on Facebook.

Drive-In Movie

6:00 PM FMC, 9955 CR-34 Fairhope, AL, 36532 Saturday, June 28, 2025, we invite our friends to a Drive-In movie experience at FMC in Fairhope, AL- at Co Rd 34 and Hwy 181. Gates open at 6PM, movie starts at dusk- about 8PM. Entry is FREE!! There will be a section for those who want to bring their blankets or folding chairs- and an undetermined amount of spaces for “in vehicle viewing”. Although this is not a car show- we will be reserving the first couple of rows for antique, classic, and other “show” vehicles- so bring them if you have them and come early (gates open at 6pm). Concession sales will benefit Camp Seale Harris.

The City of Orange Beach Expect Excellence Music Department Presents Dream On 7:00 PM Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The City of Orange Beach

Expect Excellence Music Department will present their Summer 2025 edition of “Dream On” June 26-28 at the Orange Beach Performing Arts Center. “Dream On” is a tribute show dedicated to some of the greatest music of all time. There’s something for everyone to enjoy. Come and rock out to this City of Orange Beach original production!

www.orangebeachal.gov/423/Performing-Arts-Center

Saturday June 29

Mobile Harbor Tour Featuring the SS United States

10:00 AM Mobile Convention Center Dock, Mobile, AL, 36602 This two-hour journey through the busy Port of Mobile will introduce guests to the incredible modern facilities and rich history of the city’s harbor. Along the way we will get a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get a close waterside view of the venerable SS United States, the fastest ocean liner to ever cross the Atlantic and the largest passenger ship ever built entirely in this country.

www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

Wednesday July 2

Independence Day Street Party 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Wharf in Orange BeachMain Street, 23101 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL, 36561

Happy Birthday, America! Join us as we celebrate with red, white, and fun. There will be family-friendly activities in the Entertainment District, including a bubble truck, bounce houses, face painting ($10), camel rides ($10), Photo 360 Booth, Reptile Bus, DJ Matt spinning dancing tunes, special appearances by Lady Liberty, Uncle Sam and so much more. We’ll end the night with palm trees dancing in patriotic colors and a grand fireworks show. Beachball Properties will present all of the fun. www.alwharf.com/events

Thursday July 3

The Red Clay Strays

7:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The Red Clay Strays with special guests The Revivalists, Band of Horses + Abe Partridge are coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on July 3,4+5 as part of the 2025 C Spire Concert Series! www.alwharf.com/events

Friday July 4

Shark Run 5K

7:00 AM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The 11th Annual Shark Run 5K is back for another year! There will be categories for a 5K run, 5K competitive walk and 1-mile fun run. Once you survive the race, there will be a DJ awards party, refreshments 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com/events

Gumbo Cook-off

12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 2101 S. McKenzie Street Foley, AL Join us for gumbo, raffles, silent auction, bake sale and more.

The Red Clay Strays

7:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The Red Clay Strays with special guests The Revivalists, Band of Horses + Abe Partridge are coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on July 3,4+5 as part of the 2025 C Spire Concert Series! https://alwharf.com/events

FamilyCalendar

Fairhope’s 4th of July Celebration

7:30 PM Henry George Bluff Park, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Fairhope’s Fourth of July celebration will take place on July 4th, 2025, at Henry George Park and the Fairhope Pier. The event features a concert by the Baldwin Pops Band starting at 7:30 p.m., followed by a fireworks display around 9 p.m. www.baldwinpops.com

Fireworks Cruise

7:45 PM Historic Blakeley Park dock, 34745 State Hwy. 225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 This cruise takes guests out into the headwaters of Mobile Bay for a stunning view of Mobile’s 4th of July fireworks display. www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

Independence Day Celebration

9:00 PM Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier, Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 The City of Gulf Shores will celebrate the Fourth of July with a stunning fireworks display, beginning at 9 p.m. July 4. Fireworks will be shot from the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier. www.gulfshoresal.gov/1417/Annual-Events

City of Robertsdale Fireworks Display

9:00 PM Garrett Park, 18080 Pennsylvania Street Robertsdale, AL The City of Robertsdale is excited to once again host its Annual 4th of July Fireworks around 9pm. Bring blankets or lawn chairs as families, friends, and neighbors gather to celebrate this patriotic occasion.

4th of July - City of Daphne

9:00 PM Al Trione Sports Complex, 8600 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, AL, 36526 Spectacular fireworks show set to patriotic music! http://www.daphneal.com/

Saturday July 5

OWA Theater Showcase Spectacular

1:00 PM OWA Theatre, 298 N Owa Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 Take a break from the 4th of July Weekend festivities and step inside OWA Theater for the OWA Theater Showcase Spectacular on July 5th! This special showcase brings live acts to the stage, featuring some of the most beloved music hits. With free admission and performances on the hour, it’s the perfect way to enjoy what OWA Theater has to offer during your day at OWA. visitowa.com/owa-theater-showcase-spectacular/

The Red Clay Strays

6:30 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The Red Clay Strays with special guests The Revivalists, Band of Horses + Abe Partridge are coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on July 3,4+5 as part of the 2025 C Spire Concert Series! https://alwharf.com/events

Tuesday July 8

Bingo Night

6:00 PM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Join us on the 2nd Tuesday of odd numbered months at 6 pm to play for free for prizes! 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Wednesday July 9

Jammin’ Piano Kids

10:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Jammin’ Piano Kids with Steinway Piano Gallery for ages 3-5. 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Kulture Klub

5:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 7/9: Soot Sprite Charms (Ages 12-18 years) 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Thursday July 10

Jubilee Kids Consignment Sale

9:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Find everything you need to make your house feel like home. Join us on June 21, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Daphne Civic Center. www.wkrg.com/gulf-coast-home-and-outdoor-expolanding/

Friday July 11

Jubilee Kids Consignment Sale

9:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Find everything you need to make your house feel like home. Join us on June 21, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Daphne Civic Center. www.wkrg.com/gulf-coast-home-and-outdoor-expolanding/

Saturday July 12

Jubilee Kids Consignment Sale

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Find everything you need to make your house feel like home. Join us on June 21, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Daphne Civic Center. www.wkrg.com/gulf-coast-home-and-outdoor-expolanding/

Thursday July 17

Flavors of the South

5:30 PM Baldwin County Coliseum, 19477 Fairground Road Robertsdale, AL, 36567 Join us for the return of a community favorite, Flavors of the South! Attendees will enjoy various foods, beverages, and a chance to win items at the silent auction. www.centralbaldwin.com/events/#!event/2025/7/17/ flavors-of-the-south

Friday July 18

Plantmania Expo 2025

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Plantmania is the Gulf Coast’s first and only 2-day indoor market style event featuring house plants, outside plants, plant crafts and educational sessions. https://plantmaniaexpo.com/

Saturday July 19

Plantmania Expo 2025

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Details July 18. https://plantmaniaexpo.com/

Tuesday July 22

Sand, Songs, & Cinema

6:30 PM Gulf Place, Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Residents and guests are invited to join us at Gulf Place for a FREE concert and Movie! Concerts begin at 6:30 p.m., and movies will follow immediately after at 7:30 p.m. All concerts and movies will be on the Town Green at West Gulf Place.

www.gulfshoresal.gov/1417/Annual-Events

Wednesday July 23

Kulture Klub

5:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 7/23: Magic Spiral Fidget Cubes (Ages 12-18 years) 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Every Monday June 2-July 10

Marvelous Mondays 10:30 AM Daphne City Hall, Daphne, AL, 36526 Live entertainment for all ages. 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Main Street Beats

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 We’re spinning more than just up town beats every Monday night during the summer season. DJ Matt: 6-9 pm, Reptile Bus: 6-9 pm, SPECTRA Laser Light Experience: 8:30, 9 + 9:30 pm 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Every Monday and Friday

Free Build - STEM

Play (Free) 9:15 AM - 12:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 2 to 10 years old. Come put your creative imagination to the test! We will put out all of our legos, soft blocks, lincoln logs, picnic pieces, buckets of dinosaurs, and more. Join us in the Activity Room for Free Build every Monday and Friday from 9am - Noon. 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Every Tuesday

Bay Minette Public Library Story Time

10:00 AM Bay Minette Public Library, 205 W 2nd St Bay Minette, AL, 36507 Story-time runs year-round at 10 a.m. Tuesdays in the Children’s Room at the Bay Minette Public Library. These stories are geared toward younger children but all are welcome. www.cityofbayminetteal.gov/departments/library

Tuesday Morning Activities/Performances

10:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Come enjoy activities and performances. 6/3-glow party, 6/10-Cirque de Todd, 6/17 Freedom Ranch, 6/24-Cowboy Bruce, 7/1 Ballet Theatre, 7/8 Science Lady, 7/15-Magician, 7/22 Neighborhood Adventure Safety Day 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Toddler Storytime

10:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 18mo-3yrs. This storytime is for all of the roamers, movers, and shakers! The program lasts 30-40 minutes, with about 15-20 minutes dedicated to reading, rhyme, and music, and 20 minutes dedicated to block play and socialization or crafts and coloring. www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Story time - Lap Babies (Free)

10:30 AM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Lap babies at 10:30 am (infant to 23 months) Songs, stories, puppets and more! 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Big Kid Storytime

11:30 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 4+, This is a story hour filled with rhymes, music, games, and crafts. www.fairhopelibrary.org/

FamilyCalendar

Crafternoons

2:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Come enjoy crafts on Tuesday afternoons. (every Tuesday excluding July 4th week)

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Tween Program (Free)

2:00 PM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Tween programs for 3rd-5th grades. 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Summer Reading Program at Bay Minette Public Library

1:00 PM John F. Rhodes Civic Center, 301 D’Olive Ave. Bay Minette, AL, 36507 Summer Reading Program is back, every Tuesday from June 3-July 8 at 1:00pm at the John F. Rhodes Civic Center. Program schedule: June 3-All Hands Productions puppet show, June 10-Cirque Du Todd, June 17-Freedom Ranch Bird Show, June 24- Cowboy Bruce Brannen , July 1- Magician Bruce Walstad, July 8-Science Lady 251-580-1648 www.bayminettepubliclibrary.org/

Sunset Sounds at Portside

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Join us every Tuesday for Sunset Sounds at Portside, where live music meets waterfront vibes. Kids’ Activities + DJ Matt: 6-9 pm, SPECTRA Laser Light Experience: 8:30, 9 + 9:30 pm 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Every Wednesday

StorytimePage & Palette

10:00 AM Page & Palette, 32 S Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 Please join us on Wednesdays at 10:30 AM for storytime! Each week, Miss Paula share a silly story the whole family will enjoy. 251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com

PreK Storytime

10:30am 2:00pm Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Storytime for 2 years - PK5. 10:30am, 2:00pm 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Pepsi Summer Adventure

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Gather your patrol and embark on an epic summer adventure every Wednesday at The Wharf. Adventure Quest: 6-9 pm, DJ Matt on the Portside stage: 6-9 pm, SPECTRA Laser Light Experience: 8:30, 9 + 9:30 pm 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Every Wednesday June 11-

July 23 (no performer July 16)

Fairhope Summer Reading Performers

2:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Big Event Wednesdays: Starting June 11-July 23 (no performer July 16) 2PM in Giddens Room www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Every Thursday

Baby Storytime

10:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Baby Storytime every Thursday at 10am in the Activity Room for ages 0-18 months. www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Story Time - Spanish Fort Library

10:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us Thursday mornings at 10:00AM in the Spanish Fort Public Library children’s section for Storytime at the library. Thursday morning storytimes are structured for ages 2 - 5 years (Pre-K).

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Crafternoons

2:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Afternoon Art Camp Thursdays at 2pm. (every Thursday excluding July 4th week)

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Junior Storytime

10:30am 2:00pm Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Storytime for K5-2nd grade. 10:30am, 2:00pm

251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Board Game Night

4:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Ages 12 -18 are welcome to the SFPL every Thursday for Board Game Night.

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Bubble Bash

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Get ready for a bubbly good time because Thursdays are about to be Poppin’. Kids’ Activities + DJ Matt: 6-9 pm, Bubble Truck: 6:30-8:30 pm / Last 30 min - GLOW Bubbles, SPECTRA Laser Light Experience: 8:30, 9 + 9:30 pm 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Every Thursday thru June 26

Spring/Summer Outdoor Farmers Market

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Behind the Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532

The farmers market will feature a varied selection of individual booths selling local produce, plants, honey, baked items, handmade soaps, and more. For entertainment and the whole family, the farmers market will feature live music and activities for the kids.

Farmer’s Market Storytime

4:00 PM Behind the Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Come see Ms. Grace behind Fairhope Public Library during the City of Fairhope Farmers Market for a very special outdoor storytime and activity.

Every Third Thursday

Downtown Foley Third Thursdays 5 PM - 7 PM, Foley Main Street, Foley, AL, 36535

Check out the specials on every Third Thursday in Downtown Foley. 5 to 7 p.m. There are tastings,

art, special deals! downtown-foley-third-thursdays-25323.grwebsite.com/

Every Thursday-Sunday April 17-June 15, 2025

Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival

5:00 PM - 10:00 PM, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Join us for the inaugural Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival as Bellingrath Gardens & Home transforms into a breathtaking display of light and artistry. As night falls, the Gardens will turn into a luminous dreamscape, where 41 towering, handcrafted light sculptures glow with vibrant colors, lighting the landscape with interactive artistry and imagination.

https://bellingrath.org/event/gulf-coast-chineselantern-festival/

Every

Friday

Summer Reading Performance

10:30 AM Thomas B. Norton Public Library, 221 West 19th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Summer Reading Program. Join us each Friday at 10:30AM at the Adult Activity Center for a new and exciting performer! June 6, 13, 20, 27, July 11, 18. All ages welcome! Summer Reading packets with reading logs will be given out on June 7th, after that they can be picked up at the library! All ages are welcome, and all programs are FREE to the public. Visit our website or Facebook for activity listings.

251-968-1176 www.gulfshoresal.gov/924/Library

Second and fourth Sunday

Mobile Bay Maker’s Market 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, American Legion Post 199, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Taking place every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month, the Mobile Bay Maker’s Market features over 35 local artisans, farmers, and makers along the gulf coast. The event takes place just south of the Fairhope Municipal Pier. Food trucks are also on site. www.mbmakersmarket.com/

Every last Saturday

Spanish Fort Market Days 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Double D’s Burgers, 29001 Bass Pro Dr Spanish Fort, 36527 From handmade jewelry, to handcrafted home decor, and scrumptious homebaked goods, you are sure to leave with full hands. www.fairhopeal.gov

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

We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of these calendar events. However, you should call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

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

Thunderbolts*

The Legend of Ochi

Juliet & Romeo

Words of War

Mourning the loss of her sister, Yelena realizes she wants more from life than working as a hired killer. CIA Director Allegra de Fontaine promises a more positive career path after one more job, but all is not as it seems With Thunderbolts*, Marvel assembles a crew of antiheroes while giving viewers lots of dark humor and a few fine performances. Like all superhero movies, it overdoses on lethal violence, with a sprinkling of moderate profanity and substance use. However, the film offers positive messages about self-assessment, change, and courage – whether or not viewers buy them is the big question. Photo ©Walt

When Yuri befriends an injured ochi, she knows she will horrify her father, who has devoted his life to hunting the mysterious creatures. On a quest to reunite the baby ochi with its mother, Yuri learns more about her own past – and about how she can connect with the animals and her own family. The most remarkable thing about this film is the puppetry used to bring the ochi to life: the rest of the film lacks a coherent tone or any sense of magic. It’s also too scary for little kids and not mature enough for most teens. Photo ©A24

Feeling adrift and grieving the loss of his mother, Joe finds comfort in cooking her favorite recipes. This inspires him to open an Italian restaurant which will be staffed, not by chefs, but by neighborhood Italian nonnas (grandmothers). The story is slow but compelling thanks to its solid emotional core and a stellar cast. At heart, the movie is a nostalgic love letter to Italian cooking, nonnas, and family. It’s the cinematic equivalent of a warm hug. Photo ©Netflix

Romeo & Juliet’s bloody saga of star-crossed lovers might be the most well known of Shakespeare’s plays, but this film is based on an older Italian story. There are significant plot differences, forgettable musical numbers, and terrible dialogue full of modern phrases. The cast members put in an honest effort, but they can’t compensate for the flawed screenplay and unnecessary negative content. Unlike the play, which is a timeless classic, this film will never be more than a forgettable diversion Photo ©Briarcliff Entertainment

In the early 2000s, Anna Politkovskaya is a journalist writing stories about Russian government corruption. Then she volunteers to go to Chechnya to see how the war is affecting the civilian population. Her reporting puts her on a collision course with the Kremlin, threatening her family and her life. Based on a true story, this is a powerful film about courage, integrity, and the fight for truth. Profanity and war violence push the movie into an R-rating, but it’s suitable for mature teens. Photo

©Rolling Pictures

Encourage Kids to Embrace the “In-Between” This Summer

Time spent on the front porch in the mid-summer heat braiding pine straw that became sharp, uncomfortable bracelets and necklaces. A long string tied to a June bug’s leg and “flying it” til you- or it - quit. Building a much too tall and equally unstable bicycle ramp out of old wood and convincing my brother to jump it, resulting in an ER visit for him and grounding for me. Chasing black runner snakes, only to learn they will chase you back. Hours upon hours on a float in the middle of the lake, contemplating life. Or not. These are all memories from a childhood born out of boredom, where boredom was an incredibly regular and often encouraged part of life. A time, a space, the in-between all the other “stuff” we were doing that has been lost. The slow, quiet removal of the ability to be bored is having a much larger impact on society than we realize.

the five minutes that students have in between classes or the unknown number of seconds that pass while you are waiting for an elevator. These moments used to be given over to silent reflection or conversation with whoever was around. Now, for most of us, nearly all of them are grabbed by our phones”.

I like to look at both the long stretches of boredom and the small in-between

Christine Rosen takes a look at the in-between when she discusses “interstitial time.” Rosen says, “Interstices are the gaps between things, as with the cells in your body or the spaces between architectural columns. When applied to time, it means the many bits of time scattered throughout the day, such as

moments as equally important. Either way, it is time that has been ripped from us due to technology. And it is not just time that is stolen. It is creativity. Openness. Thoughtfulness. Connections. It has made us less patient. Less empathetic towards others. Our need to be constantly entertained is robbing us not only of ideas but our ability to just BE in the world.

How many times do we reach for our phone at a stop light because the

two minutes of simply sitting feels like too much? When was the last time you were in a waiting room and didn’t see the tops of heads or faces lit up by a screen? I am willing to bet if you made eye contact with someone, they would be north of 60.

When was the last time we let our kids be bored? Let them sit with friends (device and game-free) and just figure it out. I think of all the amazing connections that have been formed because two people had five minutes in a coffee shop somewhere, were phone-free, and simply spoke to one another.

According to Pew Research, nine out of ten Americans own a smartphone, and 95 percent of teenagers have access to one. A 2024 Pew survey of teens ages 13-17 found that half said they were online “almost constantly.” I think it is time we take a look at some of the important things we have lost at the expense of technology. Encourage your kids to be bored and embrace the in-between. It is where really cool life stuff happens.

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

Rhoda Burns, MD, FAAP; Paula Drummond, MD, FAAP; Jennie Breslin, MD, FAAP; Meg Moore, MD, FAAP; Elizabeth Orr, MD, FAAP; Jennifer Walker, MD, FAAP; Susie FitzHarris, MD, FAAP; Natalie Carlisle, MD, FAAP; Olivia Akins, CRNP; Janelle Davis, CRNP