Eastern Shore Parents Summer Fun Issue (June 2026)

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School is officially out, summer is officially in. Hopefully, you’ve had a chance to slow down, recover a little, and enjoy a wonderful Mother’s Day. Now it’s time to trade the packed calendars for pool towels, VBS, camps, and of course, celebrating all the dads and father figures in our lives.

Last month, we talked about what makes moms special. But what about all the dads? They bring their own unique brand of magic to the family dynamic. As Shannon Dead shares in More Than a Hero: What We Love About Fathers, there are many special ways dads bring a little something different to the table.

While the stereotype of dads being the instigators of mischief is not always true, in our house, it absolutely is. To be honest, I love it. Maybe not always in the moment, but definitely in the memories afterward. He’s taken the kids out for ice cream before dinner, built an over-the-top treehouse, and once bought MB a moped without telling me beforehand. She thought it was super cool. I, meanwhile, immediately considered purchasing industrial-strength bubble wrap.

And then there was the infamous Whipped Cream Fight of 2013. I walked into the kitchen only to discover all three kids, my husband, and both dogs covered in whipped cream. I didn’t even have to ask who started it because the girls ratted him out immediately. At that point, there was really nothing left to do except laugh... and run before I became the next target.

Some of our very favorite family memories started with something much simpler: Saturday morning garage sales. Brad loved getting up early to hunt for treasures, and once the girls were old enough to tag along, it became our thing. He’d hand them each a few dollars for their “treasure hunt,” and off we’d go. The mornings usually ended with Waffle House or Hardee’s biscuits. Those little Saturday outings quietly turned into something bigger: a family-wide love of thrifting. Even now, with the girls all in their twenties and Brad and me officially empty nesters, we still Facetime and text each other photos of our latest finds.

Having a “family hobby” reaps a lot of benefits, as Shannon Dean shares in this month’s feature, The Power of Family Hobbies: Building Memories One Activity at a Time. Dean even offers some suggestions for hobbies. I am sure if you look around, you may already have a family hobby you didn’t even realize was becoming part of your story. A great place to look for local family activities this summer is in our annual Summer Fun Guide in this month’s issue. In this guide, you will find plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy fun in the sun and also indoor activities for when you need to beat the heat or escape the afternoon thunderstorms. Whether your family is into hiking, amusement parks, reading, or roller skating, you will find plenty to do here on the beautiful Gulf Coast. Make sure you also check out the Family Calendar for even more local activities to enjoy along the Gulf Coast.

As we kick off summer, I wish everyone a safe and wonderful summer break filled with laughter and wonderful memories. To all the dads, thank you for all you do! Just one small piece of advice: if you start a whipped cream fight, do it during the summer so you can hose everyone off outside, including the dogs. While you’re at it, hand them some shampoo and soap. Mom will think you voluntarily gave them all a bath! Happy Father’s Day!

Eastern Shore Parents Magazine, is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant, role in our community. Eastern Shore Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com

Research Editor Lucy Green

Contributing Writers

Kristi Bush, LSW

Shannon Dean Gabriele Jones

Dave Ramsey 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

lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Eastern Shore Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 374, Montrose, Alabama, 36559. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 929-2099. Eastern Shore Parents is copyrighted 2026 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.

by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com

Adler’s theories reframe the behavior of a teen as simply seeking significance and autonomy. Instead of wasting time trying to uncover deep emotional wounds, Adler’s ideas empower parents to set clear boundaries, invite collaboration, and teach effective communication skills.

Why Parenting Would Be Healthier

If We’d Followed Adler Instead of Freud

I often sit with parents who are desperate to understand why their children do what they do. They are exhausted, confused, and convinced something deeper must be wrong with their children or themselves. The simple truth is that children must be taught how to behave. They are not born knowing how to manage frustration, follow instructions, handle disappointment, or communicate respectfully. They are not evil, manipulative, or plotting against us. They are inexperienced humans who need skills, not suspicion. Much of the confusion parents feel today comes from the fact that, for generations, we followed the wrong theorist. Freud taught us to look for hidden motives, inner conflicts, and symbolic meanings behind every behavior. Adler, on the other hand, taught that behavior is purposeful, teachable, and rooted in belonging and capability. If we had built our parenting culture on Adler instead of Freud, we would have far fewer parents blaming themselves, fearing failure, or assuming their child’s behavior to be a moral flaw.

* Adler: Behavior is purposeful. A tantrum is communication: an attempt to gain an item, attention, power, or avoid something they do not want to do.

What This Looks Like in Real Life

1. The Morning Meltdown. A Freudian lens might lead a parent to wonder,

Freud’s approach leaves parents decoding, while Adler’s ideas empower parents to teach.

The Core Difference

* Freud: Behavior is symbolic. A tantrum might represent inner turmoil or unresolved conflict.

“What’s going on inside my child emotionally? Why are they so oppositional?”. An Adlerian lens explains that children are simply overwhelmed and lack the skills they need to manage transitions. Instead of wasting time analyzing motives, healthy parents examine how to teach. They use visual schedules, countdown timers, and help their children practice simple routines that build capability.

2. The Teen Who Talks Back. Freud might push a parent to interpret disrespect as rebellion or deep resentment.

3. The Child Who Lies. Freud believed that lying is a sign of inner conflict or avoidance of shame. Adler theorized that lying is a strategy to avoid perceived failure or punishment. Adler encouraged parents to teach problem - solving, reduce fear-based consequences, and reinforce honesty as a skill.

4. The Sibling Rivalry Spiral. Freud taught that jealousy is rooted in deep emotional competition. Adler explained that children are competing for belonging and significance. His ideas helped parents shift from refereeing to teaching turn-taking, contribution, and shared responsibility.

Why This Matters for Today’s Parents

Adler frees parents from the pressure of perfection. He reminds us that:

* Misbehavior is communication, not character.

* All skills can be taught.

* Connection and capability drive behavior.

* Parents do not need to interpret or make incorrect assumptions. They need to guide children to build skills that develop healthy adults.

Children do not need decoding. They need teaching. When parents shift from interpreting behavior to building skills, we have plenty of time and energy for healthy connections.

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.

15th Annual Children’s Cup Regatta

The 15th annual Children’s Cup Regatta will set sail on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the Fairhope Yacht Club to benefit patients from the Alabama Gulf Coast treated at Children’s of Alabama. Sailing enthusiasts and community members across Mobile and Baldwin counties are invited to enjoy a full day of sailboat racing and family-friendly activities at the Fairhope Yacht Club, located at 101 Volanta Avenue.

A free, family-friendly event, the Regatta is open to all sailboat classes. Registration will be held from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., followed by a skipper’s meeting at 10:30 a.m. Racing will begin at 12:30 p.m. on Mobile Bay. Guests are invited to attend and enjoy the day’s activities, including a silent auction, dinner, live music and more. The awards ceremony will begin at 7 p.m.

The Cruiser’s Crawl is open to anyone not participating in the race and offers a chance to cruise the bay and watch the action. Guests can also enjoy dinner beginning at 5 p.m., live music from Doc Rogers and the Rock Dodgers, and activities for children throughout the afternoon, including crafts, games, snacks and a waterslide in “Al’s Activities” area.

The youth race, known as “Katie’s Cup Youth Regatta,” honors Children’s of Alabama patient Katie Hamlin of Daphne. Funds raised from the event support critical care, research and resources for children across Alabama, including the more than 1,800 patients treated each year from Mobile and Baldwin counties alone.

Participation from out-of-town sailors and non-yacht club members is welcome, and boat owners may arrange for overnight parking at the Fairhope Yacht Club.

For more information or to register online, visit Give.ChildrensAL.org/ChildrensCup, or contact Kerrie Benson at Kerrie.Benson@ childrensal.org or 251-610-4969. Event updates will be posted regularly to facebook.com/ChildrensCupRegatta.

Fourth of July Celebration: America’s 250th Anniversary

Join us for the City of Mobile’s 4th of July Celebration, honoring America’s 250th anniversary! Join us on Saturday, July 4 from 5:309:30 p.m., enjoy live music, food trucks, local vendors, nonprofits, games, family-friendly activities, and a breathtaking fireworks show at USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. Entertainment Schedule: DJ Geaux, The Six Piece Suits (6:30-7:30 p.m.), The Kazzettes (7:45-9 p.m.), Fireworks show (9 p.m.)

Admission to the Fourth of July Celebration is free, but there are fees to park. Parking will cost $10 per car and $30 per RV (cash only). You may reserve your spot in advance starting May 4. If you purchase a presale parking ticket, you will be able to park as early as 4 p.m. on the day of the event. No parking will be allowed after 8:15 p.m. Please visit https://www.cityofmobile.gov/events/events/fourth-of-july.

Ozanam’s Jazz Extravaganza

Come one, come all to the greatest event in town! It’s Ozanam’s Jazz Extravaganza 2026 at The Calirojae’ on Thursday, June 25, 2026. Please join us for a spectacular evening of live jazz, food drinks, a silent auction, wine pull, cork game, raffle and a caricature artist. Remember to bring your fans and your hankies for the second line at the end of the night. Ozanam Charitable Pharmacy is Alabama’s only licensed charitable pharmacy. It provides free prescription medications to uninsured individuals in Mobile, Baldwin, Washington, and Escambia Counties. Please visit https://ozanam-charitable-pharmacy-inc. networkforgood.com to purchase tickets.

Anchor Cross Cancer Foundation

Masquerade Ball

Join us for the 7th Annual ACCF Masquerade Ball on June 13, 2026, at the Daphne Civic Center. Enjoy a night of celebration as we raise funds to support local cancer patients in south Alabama. Supporters and community members from across the Gulf Coast are invited to help us #MaskCancer for one night at this fundraising event, where we will celebrate local cancer patients and survivors while raising funds to support those currently battling cancer. Please visit https://anchorcross foundation.org/masquerade-ball/ for more information.

Walk for Epilepsy

Join us on June 6, 2026, at USS Battleship Alabama Memorial Park to raise awareness and funds as we Walk FOR Epilepsy. With each step taken and dollar raised, we’re closer to reaching our vision: a world where no one faces epilepsy alone. Register today: https:// donate.epilepsy.com/Mobile.

The Animation Academy

Join us to visit the Exploreum Science Centers new exhibit, The Animation Academy. It will take students on a journey through the history of animation, from pre-film animation devices to the computer generated animated films of today. Discover the men and women who have contributed to animation through the ages and learn what films, tools, or characters they introduced to the world. Take a behind-the-scenes look into the making of your favorite animated shows and movies, and view old drawings, sets, and notes used in these productions. You can even try your own hand at animating!

What you can expect:

* Discover untold stories of the animators and studios that brought your favorite characters to life.

* Learn to draw or trace famous characters.

* Explore the extensive collection of preserved sketches, sets, and frames from famous films and animators

What you will learn:

* The exacting, revision-filled process animators are tasked with, and how this process has changed overtime with new technologies and animation styles.

* How voice actors add an extra element to bring animated characters to life.

* How music and sound effects can influence the tone of an animation.

* How your favorite animated characters have influenced (and were influenced by) the animation genre.

Please visit https://www.exploreum.com/exhibits/ upcoming-exhibits/ for more information.

Annual Corn Festival

Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen’s Market is excited to host the Annual Corn Festival on June 20 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The festival will feature all your favorite vendors, a corn-eating contest, and tons of activities for the kids. This year the Corn Festival is celebrating it’s 10 year anniversary and American is recognizing it’s semiquincentennial so we’re combining the two for a day of fun.

The Corny Dad Cook-Off returns with three cooks, who also happen to be dads, creating a signature corn dish.

The public gets to taste each one and vote for their favorite. Each voting ticket comes with a free miniature American flag.

The corn-eating contest has a special twist. Contestants will eat 2 ears of white corn, 5 slices of red watermelon, and a cup of blueberries. This year awards will be given for both an adult division and a children’s division. Please visit https:// coastalalabamamarket.com/events for more information.

Doc’s Hot Trot for ARC

Join us on June 20, 2026, at Lulu’s at Homeport Marina for Doc’s Hot Trot for ARC. Fun Fundraiser to raise funds for the ARC - Baldwin County. Run or walk - 5K or 1 Mile - and join the party afterwards at LuLu’s. Please visit https://www.active.com/gulf-shores-al/ running/distance-running-races/lulu-s-presents-doc-shot-trot-for-arc-2026 for more information.

Stars & Stripes Summer Soirée

Get ready for one of the most memorable nights of the summer on Saturday, June 27 at 6pm. Join us for the Stars & Stripes Summer Soirée at the Orange Beach Event Center. This fun-for-the-whole-family evening is designed for everyone—parents, grandparents, and kids alike—to come together and celebrate summer in style. What to expect: Delicious dinner, Live DJ & dancing, Interactive activities for all ages, Door prizes & surprises and Professional photos to capture the night. Dress up, bring your people, and get ready for a night full of laughter, connection, and unforgettable memories. Please visit https://www.gulfshores.com/ events-calendar/annual-events-andfestivals/stars-stripes-summer-soiree/ for more information.

TO CENTER STAGE.

Ovation Gala

Join the Baldwin Pops for our annual fundraising event and enjoy dinner, dancing and a silent auction. Soldiers and starlets, the Canteen is open.

The Baldwin Pops invites you to the 2026 Ovation Gala: Hollywood Canteen, a swing dancing fundraiser on Saturday, June 20 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Fairhope Civic Center. Put on your best 1940s Hollywood glamour or wartime style and join us for a night of live big band music, good food, and dancing that goes until the last song plays.

Featuring the Mobile Big Band Society with opening act the Blue Anchor Belles, the evening includes dinner, drinks, a coffee bar, silent auction, photo booth, a swing dance competition open to all, door prizes, and best dressed awards.

Tickets are $50 each. Sponsorship packages are available and include tickets and event recognition at the gala. To become a sponsor or donate a silent auction item, contact baldwinpopsband@gmail.com.

The Baldwin Pops has called Baldwin County home since 1997, bringing free live music to the community for nearly three decades. Your support helps us continue the tradition and keep the music playing. Please visit https://www.baldwinpops.com/ for more information.

Eco Clean Marine Awards Scholarship to Foley High Student

Eco Clean Marine is proud to announce the awarding of a $200 scholarship to Foley High School student Escarlen Cruz in recognition of her leadership, initiative, and dedication to giving back to the local community.

Escarlen participated in Eco Clean Marine’s student fundraising initiative, where students were encouraged to step up as young leaders while supporting environmental efforts along the Gulf Coast. Through her participation and fundraising efforts, Escarlen earned a scholarship to help further her education as she prepares to attend Coastal Alabama Community College locally. For more information about Eco Clean Marine or future student initiatives, visit mycleaneco.com.

Thomas Hospital Auxiliary Welcomes Junior Volunteers

Thomas Hospital welcomes 50 students from Alabama School of Math and Science, Baldwin Preparatory Academy, Bayshore Christian School, Bayside Academy, Daphne High School, Fairhope High School, Foley High School, Robertsdale 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.

These students are volunteering in Cardiac Rehab, Cath Lab, Colony Rehabilitation Hospital, Endoscopy, Fairhope Surgery Center, Fitness Center, Gift Shop, Materials Management, Medical Unit (2 South), Physical Therapy, Radiology, Same Day Surgery, Surgery, Surgery Waiting Area, and Women’s and Children’s Unit (4 South).

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 1 to July 24.

“This is a great opportunity for our area high school students to observe and learn about health careers,” Melita Willkie, 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) Anna Lynn Akins, Natalie Babb, Khira Barnes, Katie Bonner, Bella Bruijn, Reese Carney, Juliana Cassagne, Ashlyn Comstock, Rianna Desai, Anna Dillard, Wyatt Eads, Bax Fargason, Kate Gardner, Talia Heard, Amelia Hicks, Reece Holmes, Emma Jorns, Brayleigh Kennington, Manu Langi, Ellie Lee, Saylor Leytham, Anabella Malec, Lucy McDade, Hayden McKinney, Giuliana Miceli, Bennett Middleton, Lorelai Milar, Annie Minchew, Connor Moore, Annabella Murray, Aaron Norton, Meera Ogletree, Kate Elyss Pacheco, Xinyue Pan, Micah Reed, Amanda Rodriguez, Eloisa Rodriguez, Tenereon Rowser, Eason Sabol, Sophie Schoenrock, Daviana Shaw, Violet Turner, Evi Underwood, Martina Venegas, Harper Walters, Katie Wilder, Stella Williams, and Elizabeth Willingham. Not pictured are Tim Murphy, Jackson Strunk and Emerson Willkie.

Now Accepting New P�tient Appointments

Shamika Bracy

Fairhope West Elementary School

Mentoring young minds and impacting future generations are key motivators for those who dedicate their lives to education, and Shamika Bracy is one of those educators. She is currently in her 25th year of teaching and will retire on December 1, 2026, fro

“When I was in second grade, I encountered a terrible experience,” shared Ms. Bracy. “Because of this, I wanted to create moments for students that would always make them feel appreciated and special.”

This passion led her to earn both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Education from Alabama State University. She has also obtained several additional certifications and is especially proud of her Highly Qualified in Reading K–12 certification from the Alabama State Department of Education, which has served her well throughout her career.

“My most memorable teaching moment occurred when I taught second grade after COVID,” she shared. “I had a student who was not reading on grade level, but by the end of the year, she was reading above grade level. At the end of the year, she came to me and said, ‘Because of you, I can read.’”

Describing herself as a “clown in the classroom,” Ms. Bracy cultivates an atmosphere of laughter and

love among her fifth-grade students. She intentionally incorporates “No-Tech Tuesdays,” using more traditional teaching methods in her lesson plans— something she says her students love. Additionally, through the use of Kagan Strategies at Fairhope West Elementary, her students are encouraged to consistently connect, coach, and collaborate with one another.

“I give God the glory for placing me in a position to serve, love, and mentor,” she said. “As an educator, it’s rare to hear ‘job well done,’ so being recognized with this spotlight means so much to me. Teaching is challenging, but working alongside some of the finest educators in Baldwin County makes it easier. Fairhope West has helped me grow professionally, and I give credit to the administration, coaches, students, and parents for always uplifting and encouraging me along the way. I would not be able to do this without them.”

Shamika Bracy, lovingly known as “Mama Bracey” at Fairhope West Elementary, is nearing the end of her 25-year teaching career. She is the proud mom of Braceson, a rising senior at Baldwin Prep, and enjoys reading, writing, and sharing the love of Jesus in her free time.

Daphne Middle Honors Day

DMS was proud to celebrate the achievements and successes of this year’s 8th grade class at the Honors Day event. This class set a high standard for academic excellence, positive leadership, athletic competition, and musical and artistic talents. The future is bright for these Trojans!

Thank you to the Daphne Civic Center staff and our dedicated PTO volunteers who helped the DMS faculty team make the day special for our DMS families.

Congrats Foley Elementary Peer Helpers!

Congratulations to our Foley Elementary School 2026-2027 Peer Helpers! We are so proud of each student selected for this leadership opportunity.

With over 145 applications submitted, the selection process was extremely difficult. Thank you to every student who applied and showed a desire to serve and lead our school community. We can’t wait to see all the great things our Peer Helpers will accomplish next year!

Bay Minette Middle Honors Red Ribbon Leader

Recently was the 2025-2026 Red Ribbon Banquet, and we couldn’t be more proud of BMMS student Zyi’Ounna Banks for the incredible way she represented our school! Zyi’Ounna’s project focused on showing appreciation for our local police department, fire department, and sheriff’s search and rescue teams by creating thoughtful posters to thank them for all they do for our community each and every day.

We are so proud of her leadership, kindness, and servant heart. Way to go, Zyi’Ounna!

Perfect Attendance Fieldtrip at Spanish Fort Middle

These amazing Spanish Fort Middle students had perfect attendance for the entire year! They were treated to a special field trip where they got to eat wherever they wanted and shop! They had the absolute BEST time and deserved every bit of it! Thank you for showing up every day!

BCVS Art Show

The Baldwin County Virtual School hosted an Art Show at the school. Students, parents, and guests enjoyed walking through the gallery space and looking at all the fantastic student artwork. Art displays included individual student showcases as well as Jackson Pollock inspired group projects. The artwork showed amazing talent and creativity. The Art Club sponsor and art instructor is Mr. Mark Levins and the art teacher is Mrs. Katie Denton. Congratulations to the BCVS students and teachers on a beautiful art show.

St. James Student Art Showcase

We had a wonderful evening celebrating creativity at our Student Art Showcase. Families and friends enjoyed viewing the incredible artwork on display, highlighting the imagination and talent of our young artists.

The Reptile Bus Visits Renaissance

Our students had an unforgettable hands-on learning experience with Outdoors with Jay today. They explored reptiles up close, asked great questions, and showed so much curiosity and courage! Learning is always more meaningful when it comes to life.

Building Friendships Through Music at Stapleton

Sixth grade band students from Stapleton and Delta enjoyed an incredible day together on their annual band field trip! The students first visited Robertsdale High School where they were inspired by the outstanding high school band program and had the opportunity to see what the future can hold for young musicians who continue developing their talents and passion for music. A huge thank you to our amazing band director, Deanna Lepa, for the tremendous work she does helping our students grow as musicians and leaders. Experiences like these help build excitement for music, strengthen friendships, and create memories our students will carry with them for years to come.

Ordo Amoris Planetarium Field Trip

As part of their study of astronomy, Mrs. Miller’s class visited the planetarium at Pensacola Christian College, where students explored exhibits including a Biblical artifacts collection and a historic one-room schoolhouse. The highlight of the trip was the viewing of The Heavens Declare, a presentation that beautifully illustrated the vastness and order of the universe. At Ordo Amoris, the study of the heavens is approached through both scientific inquiry and a theological lens, reminding students that all truth points back to its Creator. This field trip served as a powerful extension of the classroom, inspiring awe and reinforcing the school’s commitment to integrating faith with every area of study.

Christ the King Catholic School May Crowning

CTK second-grade students proudly welcomed Archbishop Rivituso to campus for our May Crowning Mass. Dressed in their beautiful First Communion attire, they helped lead a special celebration as our entire school community gathered

St. Michael Catholic High School’s Battle of the Houses

The rainy weather couldn’t dampen the spirit at St. Michael’s annual Battle of the Houses! While the competition moved indoors, the energy and excitement never missed a beat. Students showed up ready to represent their Houses in full force—decked out in House colors, accessories, costumes, and even body paint.

From start to finish, the day was full of laughter, friendly competition, school spirit, and joy. Events like these are a reminder of the incredible community and enthusiasm that make Cardinal life so special!

Egg-stra Special Lessons at St. Patrick Catholic!

Something Egg-stra Special is Happening in Third Grade at St. Patrick Catholic School! Over the past few weeks, students have had frontrow seats to the miracle of life as they followed the Life Cycle of a Chicken from start to finish, participating in an incredible hands-on lesson in biology and responsibility.

BCS Students Recognized at Essay Contest Awards Dinner

Bayshore students were recognized at the Sons of the American Revolution Essay Contest Awards Dinner, where they competed against peers from across Mobile and Baldwin counties.

Libby Mayo placed 1st, Fin Seiffert earned 2nd, and Isabelle Barr took 3rd for their exceptional three-page essays on the American Revolution.

Libby’s first-place finish advances her to the state-level competition.

A strong showing and a reflection of the thoughtful, articulate students being shaped each day.

BCS Robotics Club Brings Home

3rd at MATE ROV Competition

The BCS Robotics Club brought home 3rd Place in the Scout Division at the MATE ROV Competition at Dauphin Island! This crew designed and built their own underwater robot from the ground up then sent it below the surface to complete realworld tasks in an international competition. Problem-solving, teamwork, and a whole lot of determination on display and it paid off. Not bad for a group of students taking on the deep end.

St. Michael Catholic High School Earns State Soccer Title

St. Michael earned the school’s first AHSAA boys soccer state title with a 5-1 victory over Springville in the Class 5A title game in Huntsville. St. Michael’s junior Jake Lazzari earned the tournament MVP award with this stellar performance: 2 goals and 2 assists in the championship game. For the 2026 season, he scored a school record breaking 36 goals and 20 assists. We’re proud of him and the entire team for their accomplishment!

Bayside Academy Students Earn

First-Place Awards at AISA State Visual Arts Competition

Bayside Academy had five students bring home First Place awards from the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) State Visual Arts Competition. The state competition was held at Eastwood Christian School in Montgomery.

Bayside Academy First Place Winners

Tbug Baker ’27: 1 st Place, Photography (9 th –12 th Grade Division)

Alice Ogburn ’29: 1 st Place, Water Base (9 th –12 th Grade Division)

Violet Laymon ’38: 1 st Place, Painting (K–1 st Grade Division)

Mamie Powell ’38: 1 st Place, Photography (K–1 st Grade Division)

McGriff Walters ’38: 1 st Place, Drawing Non-Color (K–1 st Grade Division)

Congratulations to these artists!

Pictured: Tbug Baker, McGriff Walters, Violet Laymon, Mamie Powell, and Alice Ogburn hold their winning artwork.

Fairhope West Gets a Special Senior Visit

Sweet Seniors! Fairhope West Elementary School was visited by Fairhope High School Seniors. They graced our halls one last time & visited with past teachers. Our students and staff cheered them on. Congratulations class of 2026!

Fairhope East Elementary 3rd Grade American Symbols Play

Bald eagles, the Washington Monument, the White House, and the Statue of Liberty were just a few of the American symbols that made their way across the stage. The creativity, costumes, and confidence made for such a fun performance! Presented by Ms. Thompson & Ms. Kirtland’s 3rd grade classes.

Daphne Elementary Rising Stars Put on Original Production

Huge shoutout and congratulations to all of the students and staff involved with our DES Rising Stars Theatre original production of “The Quest for the 8 Habit Stones.”

These students have been working so hard and have put in countless hours into making this a success! They did an amazing job performing at our PTO meeting, and again on campus performing in front of their peers!

Thank you so much to Ms. Swinehart for spearheading this effort, along with Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Anderson, and Mrs. Killam. Additional thanks to Mrs. Walker and Mrs. Harris for assisting as well! We are so proud of you! Great job!

RHS TOP 10 Banquet

Congratulations to our Robertsdale High School Top 10! A huge thank you to Mayor Ruthie Campbell and the Robertsdale City Council for sponsoring and hosting such a special Top 10 Banquet in honor of these outstanding students. We are incredibly proud of their hard work, dedication, and accomplishments—and we can’t wait to see all they achieve in the future.

BCS Class of 2026

Valedictorian and Salutatorian

Valedictorian | Class of 2026

Bayshore Christian School proudly recognizes Avery Hensley as the Valedictorian for the Class of 2026. Avery is known for her servant leadership, steady encouragement, and commitment to excellence both inside and outside the classroom. She has maintained a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA, a 4.97 weighted GPA, and an outstanding overall average of 99.76%. Avery has also faithfully served as a Chapel Prefect and Bayshore Christian School Ambassador.

Salutatorian | Class of 2026

Bayshore Christian School proudly recognizes Jeffrey Johnson as the Salutatorian for the Class of 2026. Jeffrey is admired for his Christ-like character, servant’s heart, and dedication to excellence in academics, athletics, theatre, and the arts. He has faithfully served the Bayshore Choir program as a student director and has maintained a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA, a 4.97 weighted GPA, and an exceptional overall average of 99.63% throughout high school.

EXPERIENCE THE XPERIENCE

W. J. Carroll Students

Win Honorable Mentions in Poster Contest

Congratulations to Project Jubilee students, Fox Osborne and Livia Urniezius who were both honorable mention winners in the Alabama Council on Economic Education’s Color the Concepts poster contest. There were over 1,200 entries across the state and we are proud of them.

Daphne East Elementary Math Team Wins 1st

Daphne East hosted the Elementary Math Competition this year. Our math team had another phenomenal performance this year. They placed 1st overall as a team as well as placed in many categories.

Ciphering Teams Winners:

2nd Place- Advik Meshram, Frances Dike and Charlie Navarre; 3rd Place-Michael Stahl, Luke Burke and Cade McMillon

Individual Ciphering Winners: 1st Place-Adalee Gruber

Individual Testing Winners:

1st Place-Advik Meshram; 3rd Place-Cade McMillon

Team Power Round Winners:

1st Place-Michael Stahl, Luke Burke and Cade McMillon

2nd Place Advik Meshram, Frances Dike and Charlie Navarre

St. James Enjoy Fieldtrip to the Pelican’s Nest

Our Kindergarten through 2nd grade students enjoyed a hands-on learning field trip to Pelican’s Nest by the bay. Students explored nature up close, discovered local wildlife, and connected classroom lessons to real-world experiences in a fun and memorable outdoor setting.

Field Day Fun at CTK

The rain held off, and the smiles came out, and students had a blast with every game from the firehose to relays and everything in between!

Foley High Student is U.S. Presidential Scholar Semifinalist

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by executive order of the President, to recognize and honor some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields. Each year, up to 161 students are named as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students.

Our very own, Jacob Warner, is a 2026 Semifinalist for this extremely prestigious scholarship! We are so incredibly proud of Jacob and all of his hard work!

Foley High Student Wins Future Teacher Scholarship

Congratulations to Calin Mueller for being one of the recipients of the Baldwin Proud Future Teacher Scholarship! Calin plans to attend Auburn University and major in Early Childhood Education! Calin is pictured with her Careers in Education teacher, Mrs. Cody. We are proud of you, Calin!

Field Day Fun at Florence B Mathis

6th grade wrapped up Field Day with lots of fun, friendly competition, and great memories! From exciting races to the jump houses, students enjoyed an awesome day filled with laughter and school spirit!

BCHS Class of 2026

We celebrated our Baldwin County High School seniors with the Senior Slide Show & Who’s Who recognition! Congratulations to all of our students as graduation gets closer each day. We are so proud of the memories, accomplishments, and legacy this class is leaving behind.

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St. Patrick Catholic “Be God’s Light” Service Project

St. Patrick Catholic School 8th graders recently assisted with a special “Be God’s Light” Service Project, working with all grades and packing bags for community members in need. Students began their day with a special message of Joy at Mass celebrated by Archbishop Rivituso.

St. Michael Catholic High Seniors Serve

St. Michael Catholic High School senior girls spent a day of service at Prodisee Pantry. What a joy to watch them serve

Fairhope High Senior Picnic

The Fairhope High School class of 2026 enjoyed their senior picnic at the pier pavilion. Special thanks to Mr. Coleman for grilling hamburgers and sausage for everyone. Go Pirates!

St. Michael Catholic High School Celebrates Historic Wins in Bryant-Jordan Scholarship Program

St. Michael Catholic High School is proud to announce that its two Region 1 Class 4A winners in the prestigious Bryant-Jordan Student-Athlete Program went on to earn additional honors at the 41st Annual Awards Banquet— marking a historic achievement for the school.

Samantha (Sam) Grace Kokoszka was named the female Statewide Class 4A Scholar-Athlete winner, bringing her total scholarship awards to $6,000. Nick Thomas Russo was named the male recipient of the Auburn Football Lettermen Club Scholarship, bringing his total to $5,500. These are the first wins in both categories in school history. Sam and Nick plan to attend Auburn University this fall, where they will apply their scholarships toward tuition. During their time at St. Michael, both have been standout contributors to their teams—basketball for Sam and football for Nick—while excelling academically.

Head Football Coach Philip Rivers shared, “As my dad and longtime coach would say, ‘give me a bunch of Nick Russos.’ Nick made a tremendous impact on our program over the last four years. His attitude was infectious, and his resilience through injuries was admirable. I’m grateful to have coached him and thrilled to see him recognized in this way.”

Girls Head Basketball Coach David Offerle added, “Samantha Kokoszka demonstrates excellence in the classroom and on the court. She was constantly working to improve while maintaining outstanding academic performance. She is one of the best student-athletes I have ever coached.”

Principal Dr. Andrea Williamson praised the milestone achievement: “We are incredibly proud of Sam and Nick for this historic accomplishment. They represent the very best of St. Michael—excellence in academics, athletics, and character. Their hard work and dedication have set a new standard for what is possible for our students.”

St. Michael Catholic High School is a college preparatory high school serving families throughout Baldwin County. Rooted in faith and excellence, St. Michael provides an education where formation meets preparation, and students are truly Formed to Fly. The Bryant-Jordan Student-Athlete Program was established in 1986 by the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and the Alabama High School Athletic Association to recognize exceptional student-athletes across the state.

Renaissance School’s for Donuts with Grown-Ups

Such a sweet morning at Renaissance School for Donuts with Grown-Ups! We loved celebrating our students with families, awards, smiles, and lots of donuts. Thank you to our amazing staff, volunteers, and families for making the day so special! A decade of awakening potential continues.

Stepping Into History at BCS

BCS juniors spent the day exploring the National WWII Museum gaining a deeper understanding of the sacrifice, courage, and service that shaped our nation through powerful exhibits and stories from World War II. Moments like these bring history to life in a way no classroom ever could.

Silverhill 6th Grade Crossover Ceremony

At Silverhill Elementary School, we celebrated our amazing 6th graders at their Crossover Ceremony as they take the next step to middle school! We are so proud of all they’ve accomplished and can’t wait to see all the great things ahead for this special group of students.

Once a Bulldog, always a Bulldog!

BCS Students Recognized at Essay Contest Awards Dinner

Bayshore students were recognized at the Sons of the American Revolution Essay Contest Awards Dinner, where they competed against peers from across Mobile and Baldwin counties.

Libby Mayo placed 1st, Fin Seiffert earned 2nd, and Isabelle Barr took 3rd for their exceptional three-page essays on the American Revolution. Libby’s first-place finish advances her to the state-level competition. A strong showing and a reflection of the thoughtful, articulate students being shaped each day.

7th Grade Artist Represents Foley Middle at Art Exhibit

Congratulations to Avery Allison, a talented 7th grade student, whose artwork was selected to represent Foley Middle School at this special event. Avery’s creativity, dedication, and artistic voice truly stood out among many incredible submissions across the district.

The Superintendent Art Exhibit celebrates outstanding student artists and highlights the importance of visual arts in our schools. We are honored to have Avery represent our school community and showcase the amazing talent we see in our art program every day.

St. James Episcopal School Announces Official Accreditation

We’re proud to announce that St. James Episcopal School is now officially accredited by the Alabama Independent School Association. This certification reflects our commitment to excellence in education and marks an exciting milestone for our school community.

22nd Annual Many More Miles Shoe Drive Success

Hundreds of residents across Baldwin and Mobile Counties participated in Baldwin Bone & Joint’s 22nd Annual Many More Miles Campaign by donating gently used shoes. This collective effort resulted in approximately 5,000 pairs of shoes being gathered and prepared for redistribution to those in need. Of the total shoes collected, 2,000 pairs were donated through partnering BCBE and local schools, demonstrating strong community engagement from students and their families. The remaining 3,000 pairs came from a variety of sources, including Baldwin Bone & Joint physicians, employees and patients, and members of the surrounding communities through drop-off sites at the Spanish Fort, Daphne, and Foley YMCA locations, City Hope Church, University of South Alabama Student Recreation Center, White-Spunner Realty, and McCoy Outdoor Company in Mobile. These collection points played a crucial role in facilitating the campaign’s outreach and enabling broad participation. Baldwin Bone & Joint PC, City Hope Church, and Baldwin County schools partnered for this year’s campaign, which was especially impactful thanks to a successful one-week “Week of Giving” held in March. During this time, the community quickly mobilized to provide much-needed footwear to foster families, homeless communities, and local schools, resulting in a record number of donations in just seven days and highlighting the generosity and commitment of local residents.

Baldwin County students were challenged to collect shoes for area families in need while earning money for their schools. The top three individual schools listed below brought in the greatest number of shoes and each received a check from Baldwin Bone & Joint:

1st Place: Fairhope East Elementary (715 pairs)- $500 award

2nd Place: Bayside Academy (460 pairs)- $300 award

3rd Place: Fairhope West Elementary (152 pairs)- $200 award

Overall Class/Teacher Winner- Mrs. Weaver’s 2nd grade class- 209 pairs (Fairhope East Elementary) - Cash prize & Chick-Fil-A class party provided by CityHope Church.

Recognition and further appreciation to Belforest Elementary, Foley High School, J. Larry Newton Elementary, Rockwell Elementary, Rosinton School, Spanish Fort Elementary, Spanish Fort Middle, and St. Michael Catholic High School for their additional contribution!

Under the experienced distribution of City Hope Church Outreach Coordinator Melanie Daw and her team, these shoes will go directly to those in need across Mobile & Baldwin Counties through the partnering organizations listed below. Daw says, “Together, through this simple act of giving, we look forward to delivering hope to those who need it, one pair of shoes at a time!”

Empowering People, McKemie Place, Home of Grace, Waterfront Rescue Mission, Salvation Army, The Shoulder Rehabilitation Centers, Lifeline Ministries, Fostering Together Gulf Coast, Baldwin Family Village, Dumas Wesley, CityHope Homeless Ministry, Mobile’s Homeless Community, Baldwin County schools’ clothing closets, Dream Center (Local Adopted Communities), Baptist Church of the Covenant (clothing closet), Foster and Adoptive Association of Baldwin County, Big Fish Ministries, Dream Center – Honduras, Soles4Souls

Robertsdale Elementary Field Day

Our Robertsdale Elementary School 4th-6th grade students, Pre-K, and self-contained classes had an amazing Field Day! From tug-of-war and the 40-yard dash to snowcones and inflatables, our students had a day full of fun, laughter, and great memories. Thank you to everyone who helped make today so special for our students!

Stonebridge Leaders of the Month

Congratulations to our amazing Stonebridge Leaders of the Month for demonstrating Habit 6: Synergize! These students work well with others, encourage teamwork, and help create a positive learning environment for everyone around them. We are so proud of the leadership they show each day at Stonebridge Elementary!

Bayside Academy Senior Forrest Smith Named National Merit Scholar

Congratulations to Bayside Academy senior Forrest Smith for being named a National Merit Scholar! Out of the 1.3 million students in about 20,000 high schools who started the National Merit journey, only 2,500 students have won a National Merit $2500 Scholarship. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies. We are incredibly proud of Forrest for this significant achievement! Pictured: Bayside Academy senior Forrest Smith.

Loxley Elementary Leaders of the Month

At Loxley Elementary School, we celebrated our April Leaders of the Month! These students were recognized for demonstrating Habit 8: Find Your Voice and Inspire Others to Find Theirs. Habit 8 encourages students to discover their strengths, passions, and talents while using them to make a positive impact on those around them. We are so proud of these leaders for showing confidence, kindness, and the courage to use their voices to encourage and inspire others each day.

Students at Veritas Lutheran School Study

Ballet

Students at Veritas Lutheran School in Fairhope, Alabama, continued their exploration of the classical arts through their study of ballet. Their hard work and dedication were celebrated during the school’s end of year festivities.

RHS ACT 25+ and 30+ Club

CONGRATULATIONS to our Robertsdale High School students who earned a spot in the ACT 25+ and 30+ Club! Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence continue to make us proud. Keep raising the bar!

Veritas Lutheran Students Prepare for Awards Ceremony Performance

Students at Veritas Lutheran School in Fairhope, Alabama enjoyed playing the violin and practicing for their end of year

match his found Anders

Anders was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition that was affecting his immune health and significantly impacting his overall development. His doctors determined his best treatment option was a bone marrow transplant, and luckily Anders found his match and received his transplant. Now Anders is reaching new developmental milestones and is starting to get back to being a normal kid.

Childrens AL •org

Spanish Fort High School Prom

Congratulations to our SFHS 2026 Prom King & Queen, Will LaGroue & Sara Lynn!

A wonderful time was had by all at the Red Carpet Affair! Thank you to the Junior Class Officers, our admin & staff, & our coordinators Mrs. Kirby & Mrs. Smith for another beautiful prom.

Daphne High School Prom

DHS Prom 2026 was a success! Our juniors and seniors had a wonderful time “Unmasking the Night” as they danced the night away celebrating another school year coming to a close. Thank you to the Prom Committee, Junior Class Officers, and everyone who helped create such a memorable evening for our students!

Congratulations to Krista Burton and Micah Swiger, our 2026 Prom Queen and King!

Belforest Elementary Student Recognized at Superintendent Art Exhibit

Congratulations, Addie N.! Addie was recognized at the Baldwin County Superintendent’s Art Exhibit and received a certificate and ribbon for her outstanding work! We are so proud of your creativity and talent, Addie—keep up the amazing work!

Baldwin Preparatory Academy Senior Awards

We are proud to celebrate our outstanding seniors and their many accomplishments at this year’s Senior Awards! From Honor Societies and academic honors to scholarships, industry certifications, and career tech–specific awards, our students have been recognized across a wide range of achievements that reflect their hard work, dedication, and skill.

Whether pursuing college, entering the workforce, or continuing in career technical fields, these seniors have built strong foundations for their future success. We are incredibly proud of each of you and can’t wait to see where your next chapter takes you. Congratulations, Seniors—you’ve earned it!

8th-Grade Physics

Carnival at CTK

8-th graders put into practice some of the principles they learned this year by participating in the annual Physics Carnival. Students picked a principle to showcase and built a carnival game for students to play. Some were based on magnetism, some showcased Newton’s law of motion, friction, gravity, energy, momentum, optics, and more. Younger students came to the carnival, played the games, and were told a little about the physics behind it. They all did a fantastic job!

Daphne High Students and Team Member of the Month

Congratulations to our DHS April Students of the Month and Team Member of the Month

Robert Aikin, Jackson Triplett, Caroline Stejskal and Mary Claire McTaggart

Mrs. Baker, ELA teacher

Bayside Academy Senior Mary Katherine Crowell Awarded the Chelsea Garvin Spirit Scholarship

Bayside Academy senior Mary Katherine Crowell was awarded the 2026 Chelsea Garvin Spirit Scholarship by the Original Oyster House restaurant. As a recipient of the award, Mary Katherine earned the 21st annual scholarship from the Original Oyster House.

She painted a captivating Banquet Room sunset from the Mobile Delta side and creatively framed the artwork in an oyster shell, with the sun resembling a pearl. Her community service, which includes her work on the Bayside Art Guild and her winning design of the Battleship Alabama Christmas card, reflects Chelsea Garvin’s spirit and artistic talent. Chelsea was an exceptional employee of the Original Oyster House who was also a talented artist and volunteer rescue diver for the Fish River Fire Department. At age 19, she tragically died in a boating accident while volunteering.

“Living on the bay is one of the greatest joys in my life, and the Oyster House embodies the beautiful scenery. My family has been going to the Oyster House for many years and it has been a comforting place for us. Some of my family are in Mobile and others are in Daphne. The Oyster House, being in the middle of the causeway, connects everyone. It would be so special if I could show off my artwork in the restaurant,” said Crowell. Her winning artwork will be on display at Original Oyster House on the Mobile Causeway for her family as well as patrons and tourists to enjoy.

Pictured: Bayside Academy senior Mary Katherine Crowell with her original artwork.

Decision Day at RSES

On Friday, May 1, Renaissance School of the Eastern Shore celebrated Decision Day in true Renaissance style! Our students lined the parade route with cheers, signs, smiles, and lots of love as we gave our seniors a special send-off during the Senior Parade. It was such a meaningful way to say “we are proud of you” and “we cannot wait to see what you do next.”

After the parade, representatives from each program stayed to meet with our 6th–11th grade students, giving them a chance to ask questions, explore future opportunities, and begin dreaming about their own next steps.

Decision Day is about more than where our seniors are going — it is about celebrating how far they have come, the courage it takes to move forward, and the bright futures ahead. Congratulations to our seniors! We are cheering you on every step of the way.

Four Bayside Academy Students Selected for Alabama Governor’s School

Bayside Academy is proud to announce that juniors Lee Ginger, Amelia Hicks, Brody Ide, and Dori Small have been accepted to the Alabama Governor’s School.

The Alabama Governor’s School was established in 1987 as a summer residential honors program funded by the State of Alabama and Samford University. The school provides academic, creative, and leadership experiences for a limited number of rising high school seniors who have demonstrated exceptional ability and achievement in their studies. We are so proud of these students!

Pictured: Bayside students Brody Ide, Amelia Hicks, Dori Small, and Lee Ginger

Fairhope High Student Awarded Jimmy Rane Scholarship

Congratulations to Mary Elizabeth Owens on her award of a Jimmy Rane Scholarship!

The Jimmy Rane Foundation was established with the purpose of sending deserving students to college. Since then, the Foundation has awarded 830 scholarships to welldeserving students.

These hard-working and outstanding students have taken these scholarships all over the country to institutions including: Auburn, Alabama, University of Pennsylvania, Harvard, Texas Tech, Oklahoma State, Baylor, Indiana, Troy, Duke, Stanford, Vanderbilt, Georgia Tech, Georgia and many more. We’re confident that these exceptional scholars will use their education to accomplish great things. We’re also confident that they will one day return the favor to someone else in need.

Teacher Appreciation Week at Renaissance School

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week from Renaissance School of the Eastern Shore!

We celebrated the incredible teachers and staff who pour their hearts into our students every single day. From kind notes and sweet treats to thoughtful gifts and generous support from our families and community, every gesture reminded us how loved our RSES team truly is.

To our teachers: thank you for your patience, creativity, compassion, and commitment. You help awaken potential, build confidence, and make a difference in ways that last far beyond the classroom.

A special thank you to our Teacher Appreciation Week coordinators, Lindsey Croley and Jodee Crites, and to every sponsor, family, parent, student, and supporter who helped make this week so special. We are grateful for each of you!

It Pays to Show Bear Pride at CBMS!

The excitement is real! Students showing PAWS-itive behavior around campus are being rewarded through our Bear Pride Program, and we are thrilled to celebrate our April Bear Bucks Winners!

$5 Winner: Gavin Hopper

$10 Winner: Harlee Grace Blanchard

$20 Winner: Lori Rohan

These awesome Bears were caught doing the right thing and earned Bear Bucks for demonstrating respect, responsibility, and great character! Keep showing that Bear Pride, CBMS! You never know when you might be the next Bear Bucks winner!

St. Michael Junior Graduates from Youth Leadership Program

St. Michael Catholic High Junior Copeland McCullough, graduated from the 7 month Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Program on May 4th. This program provides Eastern Shore high school students with the opportunity to gain a greater knowledge about their community and develop leadership skills. The Chamber’s Youth Leadership program recognizes that we can build vital communities that value fairness, diversity and integrity by developing young leaders. We’re proud of Copeland for completing this rigorous and important program!

Spanish Fort High Toros of the Month

Congratulations to our Realtor Lillian Travis with Ashurst & Niemeyer Toros of the Month!

Students of the Month:

9th Grade: Martin Chenet

10th Grade: Elyn Nielsen

11th Grade: Parker Rhodes

12th Grade: Britney Chhoa

Teacher of the Month: Krystle Smith

Staff Member of the Month: Sara Fuller

St. Patrick Catholic School Second Graders Received First Holy Communion

St. Patrick Catholic School 2nd graders recently received their First Holy Communion and then celebrated at Mass with their school family. They enjoyed getting to sing, read, and share this special day together!

Fairhope Middle Students ESL Students Are Outstanding

Recently we celebrated our ESL(English Second Language) students for their outstanding performance on the recent state assessment! A special congratulations to three students who officially graduated from the ESL program. We are so proud of their hard work and accomplishments! Mrs. Stella Cooper is the best!

Spanish Fort Elementary Teacher is Alabama Teacher of the Year!

Please join us in celebrating Mrs. Elizabeth Von Hofe on being named Alabama Teacher of the Year! This extraordinary honor is a true reflection of her passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to students, families, and education. Mrs. Von Hofe represents the very best of Spanish Fort Elementary, and we could not be more proud to call her one of our own. Her impact reaches far beyond the classroom, and this recognition is so well deserved. Congratulations, Mrs. Von Hofe! Alabama is seeing what we have always known you are truly something special!

Portraits of Hope Visit

Ordo Amoris Classical Academy was honored to be selected as Alabama’s representative for the Portraits of Hope project, a nationally recognized initiative led by artist Ed Massey. During this special visit, students contributed artwork that will be displayed in Washington, D.C., as part of the celebration of America’s 250th birthday. This experience reflects the school’s commitment to cultivating creativity as an expression of truth and beauty. By participating in a project of national significance, students were able to see how their God-given gifts can be used to contribute to something greater than themselves, reinforcing the academy’s mission to form students who will impact their communities and culture for good.

J. Larry Newton Students Rich in Reading

Move over Wall Street our newest J. Larry Newton MILLIONAIRES are investing in something even more valuable...

READING!

Today we celebrated Ava, Timothy, Eliza, Everly, Owen, Cooper, Ellie, Caiden, Samantha, & Baylor: 10 incredible students who read between ONE and THREE MILLION words this school year!

These students proved that every page turned, every chapter finished, and every book explored adds up to something amazing. Their hard work, dedication, and love for reading earned them fun prizes, certificates, and a well-deserved spot in the Millionaire Club!

We are SO proud of these young readers for becoming “rich” in knowledge, imagination, and perseverance. The future is bright for these

A 2025 study in the Journal of Child and Family Studies found a direct link between a father’s support and a child’s social competence. The study of over 600 preschool children revealed that higher levels of paternal involvement led to a better fatherchild relationship, which in turn significantly enhanced a child’s social skills and ability to adapt.

And this emotional regulation starts surprisingly early. A 2025 Finnish study of over 700 families, published in Child Psychiatry & Human Development, discovered that bonding difficulties in fathers with babies were associated with internalizing problems in the child by age five. This suggests that the security a father provides from the very beginning lays the groundwork for a child’s future mental health.

5 Things Dads Do That Kids Never Forget

1. Showing Up: Whether it’s a school play, a soccer game, or simply being home for dinner, children notice when their fathers make the effort to be present. That consistency builds a sense of security that lasts well beyond childhood.

new game is literally building our children’s brains and social skills. We love that their warmth, even when unspoken, protects children and shapes them into resilient adults.

This Father’s Day, as we hand over the grilled steak and the funny card, we are really celebrating the profound science of a father’s love. It’s a love measured not just in big moments, but in the millions of tiny, consistent interactions that build a founda tion for a lifetime. And as the research now confirms, that foundation is one of the most powerful forces in a child’s life.

Shannon Dean is a freelance writer and the mother of two sons. She specializes in writing about fami lies and women’s health.

Your Child’s Photo Is All They Need: What Every Parent Needs to Know About Deepfakes

Twelve years ago, the biggest concern I had around social media and inappropriate images was simple: somebody had to take the picture. And then somebody had to send it. When that image was shared, we knew what it was. It was identifiable. And there were laws around it.

That world is gone.

Today, anyone with a phone or a device can grab an image from anywhere . Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, a school website, a church directory and transform it into anything they want. Something that looks like that person. Sounds like that person. Something completely fabricated and completely convincing.

This is called a deepfake. And it is happening every single day in schools and homes just like yours.

I have been speaking about deepfakes for three years. Sadly, things have only gotten worse. It is an incredibly hard conversation to have. But it is one we must have if we are going to know how to best protect our kids.

ogy is not complicated. It is not expensive. Much of it is free. It requires one clear photograph and a few clicks. Your daughter’s homecoming picture. Her school photo. A screenshot from TikTok. That is all it takes. Something your daughter does…. sharing memories online that is normal and what every other teen is doing…can now be almost instantaneously weaponized against her.

The Numbers Are Alarming

What Exactly Is a Deepfake?

A deepfake is AI-generated media in which a real person’s face or voice is placed onto content they never created and never consented to. For women and girls, this most commonly means taking a real photograph and using artificial intelligence to fabricate explicit, pornographic content. And here is the thing…the technol-

96% of all deepfake videos online are non-consensual pornography, overwhelmingly targeting women and girls. In the United States, documented cases exist in middle and high schools across the country. The average age of victims is twelve to fourteen years old. This is not to say it can not happen to young men. It can. And does. Usually via sextortion. But the large majority is young girls and women. So what is sextortion? I want to make the point that the “bad guy” we worry about is not always the adult behind the screen, hidden in a dark room in another country. It can be. It can also be a teen from her school. But when it comes to sextortion, it is largely about a predator online trying to harm your daughter.

Deepfakes can and are being used as blackmail. A predator obtains your child’s photo, creates a fabricated explicit image, and threatens to distribute it unless she sends money or real explicit content. FBI

reports of sextortion targeting minors have increased by over 300% in recent years. Most victims tell no one because they are terrified and because they believe it is their fault. Shame for a teenager is everything. They will do next to anything to keep their friends and family from seeing the images, even though they had nothing to do with the creation of the images.

It is not their fault. But they need to hear that from you before something happens.

What You Can Do Right Now

Have the conversation before something happens. Use the word deepfake. Make sure your child knows their photos can be used without their consent and that if it ever happens, they will not be in trouble for coming to you.

If it happens, document everything. Report to the platform. Report to law enforcement. Visit StopNCII.org, which is a free tool that helps prevent fabricated images from spreading further.

Say these words out loud to your child: If anyone ever uses your image to hurt or scare you, come to me immediately. I will believe you. And we will handle it together. Have the hard conversation.

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.

Kristi

An Underlying Lack of Character and Respect

Q. I just got married a week ago, and my husband and I are already having problems. While we were single, we practiced doing budgets together, and we agreed to follow your plan and get out of debt. The other day, we sat down to our first budget meeting as a married couple, and he told me he doesn’t consider the balances on his two credit cards to be debt. He said he plans to keep them for emergencies, but he’s still using them for everyday things. He’s 33, and I’m 31. I really want this marriage to work and be happy, but I’m feeling betrayed right now. Do you have any advice?

A. What bothers me about this issue isn’t some guy’s stupid (and wrong) statement that carrying balances on credit cards isn’t debt. It is debt. Period. What bothers me

is, your husband is basically saying he doesn’t care about your opinions or being truthful with you. I’m really afraid that level of disrespect and dishonesty is going to invade every part of your relationship. There’s an underlying lack of character here, along with an underlying lack of respect for his new wife. Instead of loving you, treasuring you and wanting to serve you, he’s all about what he wants to do and how he wants to look at things. He’s acting like he’s 14 years old. And I’ve got a feeling you thought you were getting a man as a husband — not a selfish little boy.

he’s acting this way and treating you like this now, just imagine how things are go ing to look in a couple years.

I think the core issue here is that you two have a really weak relationship. I’m not saying this to hurt your feelings, but if

Honestly? You shouldn’t accept his lack of honesty or the disrespectful way he’s treating you. I think you need to put your foot down now and declare a relation ship crisis. Find a good pastor or counselor, and both of you — together — need to attend the sessions. Be open and honest about your feelings. See if you can get to the bottom of all this and fix things before they get worse.

God bless you both. I’m praying this works out well.

Child meal sites across the Gulf Coast are offering healthy, FREE meals for children, ages 18 and younger.

Sometimes, the best family traditions aren’t planned. They appear as a loaf of banana bread baked “just to try,” a Saturday spent learning guitar chords, or an afternoon tending a patch of soil together. What begins as a way to fill the time often becomes something that fills the heart and connects families.

Parents are rediscovering that simple, shared hobbies can build some of the strongest family bonds because they offer what many other activities can’t: the slow, steady rhythm of togetherness woven into ordinary life.

Connection

in the Everyday Between work, school, and screens, families today spend less unstructured time together than ever before. Many parents feel the ache of it - that sense of living side by side but not always fully connected. Family hobbies help bridge that gap through relaxed, shared experiences that bring people closer together.

Research backs this up. A Baylor University study on family leisure found that families who regularly engaged in enjoyable activities at home reported higher levels of family satisfaction than those who spent more time in elaborate outings outside the home. Lead researcher Dr. Karen Melton explained, “All family leisure is not equal. The best predictor of happiness for families may be spending quality time together in familiar activities inside the home.”

Why Shared Hobbies Are So Effective

Family hobbies create what psychologists call “micro-moments of connection,” or

repeated experiences that build familiarity, trust, and emotional safety.

A 2025 review published in Issues in Mental Health Nursing found that engaging in hobbies significantly reduces anxiety, depression, and stress, while also fostering stronger feelings of connection.

These benefits can be especially important for children. “One of the best things about a hobby is sharing it. Almost all hobbies provide a shareable accomplishment for a child,” explains Cornell University educator Cathy Sweet.

Licensed marriage and family therapist David Schwartz agrees, adding that well-chosen hobbies

can even help discourage poor decisionmaking. “When a child becomes interested in something that occupies their thoughts and sparks their imagination, it can help them stay focused on those activities and away from the distractions that lead to poor decisions,” he says.

The Joy of Doing, Not Perfecting

Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of family hobbies is that they invite imperfection. The point isn’t to master bread baking or perfect watercolor technique. It’s to show children that joy doesn’t depend on results.

For example, when families cook together, the kitchen often fills with as much laughter as flour. When they plant a garden,

5 Ways to Start a Family Hobby That Sticks

1. Start with what you already love: Think about the small things that already bring your family joy. That might be cooking together, singing in the car, or being outdoors. The best hobbies often grow naturally from what you’re already doing.

2. Keep it simple: A family hobby doesn’t need a big investment of time or money. Start with 15 minutes, supplies you already have, and an open mind. Success comes from repetition, not perfection.

3. Let everyone have a say: Kids are more likely to participate if they help choose the activity. Rotate who picks the week’s hobby.

4. Embrace the mess: Whether it’s flour on the counter or glitter on the floor, remember that the goal is connection.

5. Make it yours: If an activity makes everyone smile, you’ve found your hobby. Repeat it. Let it become part of your family rhythm.

not every seed sprouts, but something else does: patience, teamwork, and the art of trying again. These lessons unfold naturally and easily, without lectures or tears.

Hobbies That Bring Families Together

While every family is different, certain types of hobbies seem to create connections more easily than others. Activities that involve all ages, use hands or movement, and invite creativity or discovery tend to be especially effective. Some examples are:

Cooking and Baking: From stirring batter to decorating cookies, the kitchen becomes a classroom for math, patience, and teamwork. Plus, the reward is often sweet or delicious.

Gardening: Tending to something living teaches care, optimism, and rhythm. Kids love seeing the tangible results, and parents love the quiet moments side by side.

Music or Art: Drawing, painting, or learning a guitar chords together gives families the shared language of color and sound.

Nature Exploration / Geo Caching: Walks, scavenger hunts, or hikes spark curiosity and open conversation in ways that rarely happen indoors.

Games and Puzzles: Simple board games or collaborative challenges turn ordinary nights into low-pressure connection time.

Traditions That Grow on Their Own

Many family hobbies begin as short-lived experiments that quietly evolve into lasting traditions. Maybe every Sunday becomes “new dessert night,” or summer evenings turn into spontaneous nature scavenger hunts. These moments aren’t about scheduling. They’re about shared activities everyone enjoys.

Specialists emphasize that children thrive on predictability. When families create rituals around hobbies, it reinforces a sense of belonging and emotional security. Dr. Whitney Raglin Bignall notes that when children feel this sense of belonging, they’re less likely to feel isolated or lonely.

Shannon Dean is a freelance writer and the mother of two sons. She specializes in writing about families and women’s health. ESP

Amusement Parks and Outdoor Fun

Adventure Island

24559 Perdido Beach Boulevard Orange Beach

Adventure Island features rides and thrills for the entire family. 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

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

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

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

Two-hour guided Segway tours through the Backcountry Trail. Kayak tours as well as paddle board, kayak, ebike, etrike and biking rentals. Please call or visit our website to reserve a tour.

(251) 509-8687 coastalsegwayadventures.com/

Creekside Mini Golf & Arcade

20868 County Road 20 Foley

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

Downtown OWA

100 N OWA Blvd Foley

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 www.VisitOWA.com

Fairhope Skate Park

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

Fairways of Fairhope Disc Golf

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

Fast Eddies Fun Center

505 West Michigan Avenue Pensacola

Featuring: 4 Go-Kart tracks, a Mini-Golf Course, a Construction Zone with Mini Excavators, Batting Cages and a LARGE Arcade with PRIZES! Mine for Gems in our newest attraction! 850-433-7735 info@fasteddiesfuncenter.com www.fasteddiesfuncenter.com

Ferris Wheel

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach

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

6,000 square foot Skate Park www.visitfoley.com/listing/foley-skate-park/

Gulf Shores Skate Park

2008 West 3rd Street Gulf Shores

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 accompa-

nied by an adult. (251) 968-1420 www.gulfshoresal.gov/1231/ Skateboard-Park

LuLu’s Beach Arcade & Ropes Course

200 East 25th Avenue Gulf Shores 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 https://lulusfunfoodmusic.com/

Park & Splash Pad

11101 County Road 64 Daphne

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 MondayFriday seasonally during the summer months. The basketball courts, playground, and walking trail are open year-round. (251) 621-9555 (Ext.535) www.coastalchurch.tv/ cafeandpark

Pirates Island Golf

3201 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores Adventure golf experience for all ages. (251) 968-4653 www.piratesislandgolf.com/ourlocations/gulf-shores-al-pirates-island/

SPECTRA Laser Light Experience

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach

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

Shrimpy’s Mini Golf & Ice Cream

204 East 2nd Avenue Gulf Shores

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

Tee Off at The Wharf

4619 Main Street, Suite A-102 Orange Beach

Tee Off at The Wharf, powered by TopGolf, is a restaurant, bar and premier entertainment venue with swing suites, great food + drinks, and live music all summer long during the Tee Off Turned Up series. (251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com

The Factory of Gulf Shores

18948 Oak Road West Gulf Shores

Trampolines, arcade games, flight simulator, birthday parties, open jump, teen night and more. Visit us online for updates. (251) 202-0900 info@thefactorygulfshores.com https://thefactorygulfshores.com/

The Track

3200 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores

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! www.funatthetrack.com

The Wharf

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach

Throughout the summer, The Wharf hosts a variety of family-friendly nightly events, kids’ activities + live music during the Wharf Summer Nights event series. Visit alwharf.com for more details. (251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com

The Wharf Amphitheater

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach

The Wharf Amphitheater is one of the Southeast’s premier outdoor concert venues, bringing top touring artists and unforgettable live music experiences to the Alabama Gulf Coast through the C Spire Concert Series. Head to our website to see the full lineup + purchase tickets. (251) 224-1020 www.alwharf.com/amphitheater

The Wharf Express

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach

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). Check our website for seasonal run times and details. (251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Town of Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights

East End Beach (Behind Fort Gaines) Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights at the East End Beach. 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

2026-Sunset Concerts-the popular Sunset Concert series will start April 19. Concert dates: April 19, May 24, June 28, July 26, September 6 & October 11. Concert starts promptly at 530pm at historic Fort Gaines and admission is $5 (age 12 & under free). (251) 861-5525 www.townofdauphinisland.org

Tropic Falls at OWA

1501 S OWA Boulevard Foley

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 tropical-themed wave pool and beach just outside. OWA’s Tropic Falls is located just minutes from Alabama beaches on the Foley Beach Express. (251) 923-2111 visitowa.com/destinations/tropicfalls-at-owa

Tropic Hideaway RV Park

2252 Creek Winds Road Foley

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/

Wales West RV Park & Light Railway

13670 Smiley Street Silverhill

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 and Music

Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach

26389 Canal Road Orange Beach

Offering classes, workshops, and camps to all ages and skill levels. Call visit us online or sign up for our newsletter to catch program information. (251) 981-2787 www.orangebeachal.gov/324/About

Coastal Makers Art Studio

20764 Barbara Lane Robertsdale

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

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 Great Summer Playdates

335 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope

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! (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 Join us for FREE classes, demos and other events in store. (251) 621-2686 www.michaels.com

Bowling, Skating, Movies and Indoor Fun

AMC Theatres

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach (251) 981-4444 www.amctheatres.com/

Arena - The Next Level Laser Tag

23101 Canal Road, Suite M-201 Orange BeachVisit 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 Theater at OWA Downtown

101-H S OWA Boulevard FoleyFeaturing a lineup of ever-changing acts and shows, from familyfriendly 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, Suite L-208 Orange BeachWork 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 cmxcinemas.com/cmx-cinemas-pinnacle-14

Eastern Shore Lanes

10460 Eastern Shore Boulevard Spanish Fort 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

FUMC Christian Life Center is open MondayFriday 8:00am–5:00pm. We have a walking track, fitness room, game room and more. (251) 928-1148 www.fairhopeumc.org

Fairways Indoor Golf Club

25000 Bass Pro Drive (Suite 104) Spanish Fort 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 Boulevard Orange Beach

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. www.fatdaddysarcade.com

Hot Wheels Skate Center

616 Whispering Pines Road Daphne

Roller skating, birthday parties, private parties, after school care, day camps in summer and holidays. Full service concessions, arcade games and pro-shop. . (251) 626-5120 www.hotwheelsdaphne.com

Jurassic Golf

3800 Gulf Shores Pkwy Suite 142 Gulf Shores Welcome to Alabama’s Glow-in-the-Dark Dinosaur Adventure! Featuring 18 holes! (251) 948-0227 www.jurassicgolfgs.com

Kidlavie

3201 Airport Blvd Mobile

Kidlavie is where families come to celebrate, play, and create memories together. From themed

shows, workshops, escape rooms — to delicious food and custom cakes in our stylish restaurant & patisserie — every visit is a magical experience. (251) 319-7726 mobile.kidlavie.club

OWA Theater

205 N. OWA Blvd Foley

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

Outer Limits VR

23101 Canal Road, Suite N-101 Orange Beach 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. Height requirement of 44”. (251) 240-0647 www.vrfunplays.com

The Gulf Bowl

2881 South Juniper Street Foley

Bowling, arcade games, laser tag, axe throwing, birthday parties and more. (251) 943-4575 www.gulfbowl.com

Top Golf

1250 Satchel Paige Dr Mobile

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/

Tortuga Adventure Golf, LLC

30500 State Hwy 181, (Ste. 230) Spanish Fort 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 Indoor family entertainment center that combines traditional trampoline arenas with high-intensity amusement attractions. (256) 269-3213 urbanair.com/alabama-spanish-fort/

We Rock the Spectrum

1802 US-98, Suite A Daphne

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

Offering 2 public courses with 36 Holes of Palmer Golf award-winning courses. Development Programs, private and individual lessons. (251) 968-3002 www.craftfarms.com

Glenlakes Golf Club

9530 Clubhouse Drive Foley

GlenLakes Golf Club features 27 holes of unforgettable golf. The 18-hole, links-style, Dunes-Vista course and the 9-hole resort-style Lakes layout provide a golf experience second to none. (251) 955-1220 www.glenlakesgolf.com

Gulf Shores Golf Club

520 Clubhouse Drive Gulf Shores

Open to the public with memberships available. The Clubhouse offers dining and a Pro Shop. (251) 968-7366 www.gulfshoresgolfclub.com

Lake Forest Golf Course

1 Golf Terrace Daphne

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

Practice your driving, putting, chipping, long and short game. (251) 981-4653 www.facebook.com/OBGolfCenter

Quail Creek Golf Course

19841 Quail Creek Drive Fairhope

An 18 hole golf course. Snack bar, club fitting, driving range, putting and chipping areas. (251) 990-0240 www.fairhopeal.gov/services/quailcreek-golf-course

Rock Creek Golf

140 Clubhouse Drive Fairhope

Rock Creek is best known as a fun, player-friendly course for locals, members and visitors to the area. (251) 928-4223 www.rockcreekgolf.com

Soldiers Creek Golf Club

28341 Preserve Trail Elberta

The Preserve on Soldier’s Creek is a breath taking 18-hole public golf course in Baldwin County, Alabama, near Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Perdido Key, FL with superior playing conditions and tif eagle drawf greens. (251) 986-8633 www.soldierscreekgolfcourse.com

Timber Creek Golf Course

9650 Timber Creek Boulevard Daphne

A 27-hole Championship Layout, Full Service Restaurant, First Class Practice Facilities. (251) 621-9900 www.golftimbercreek.com

Horseback Riding

Blue Horse Farm LLC

41333 County Rd. 39 Bay Minette

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

Libraries/Storytimes

Page and Palette and The Book Cellar

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32 South Section Street Fairhope 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

Summer Reading Program is back, every Tuesday from June 2-July 7 at 1:00pm at the John F. Rhodes Civic Center. Program schedule: June 2-puppeteer David Stephens with All Hands Productions, June 9-Freedom Ranch, June 16-Cowboy Bruce, June 23-Magician Bruce Walstad, June 30-Animal Tales, July 7-The Science Lady. (251) 580-1648 www.bayminettepubliclibrary.org/

Daphne Public Library

2607 US Highway 98 Daphne

Summer reading kickoff-June 1, 10:00am12:00pm at the Daphne Civic Center, the Wow Factor Science Show performs at 10:45am. There

will be free food and entertainment. Weekly Entertainment on Mondays at 10:30am at Daphne City Hall on June 8, 15, 22, 29 at 10:30 am at Daphne City Hall (All Ages). (251) 620-2500 www.daphnelibrary.org

Fairhope Public Library

501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope

Join us for our outdoor Summer Reading Kickoff Party June 3th 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 10-July 22, 2PM in Giddens Room. (251) 929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org

Foley Public Library

319 East Laurel Avenue (In August we are moving to 230 E. Orange Avenue!) Foley (251) 943-7665 www.foleylibrary.org

Loxley Public Library

1001 Loxley Avenue Loxley

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

Marjorie Younce Snook Public Library

202 W Broadway Avenue Summerdale

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

Summer Reading Kickoff Party-Splash Bash, May 30 10:30-12:00pm, summer reading starts May 31. Stop by the library or visit our website for full summer activity schedules. (251) 981-2923 www.orangebeachlibrary.gov

Robertsdale Public Library

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

Silverhill Oscar Johnson

Memorial Library

21967 6th Street Silverhill (251) 945-5201 www.silverhillalabama.com/ services/#library

Spanish Fort Public Library

7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort Summer Reading June-July-Enjoy Tuesday morning performances/events-10am 6/2-7/21 (all ages) , crafternoons-Tuesdays 2pm, adulting 101-Wednesdays (ages 14 and up), S.T.E.A.M (all ages) Thursdays, 2pm, Unearth new foods, select Mondays/Wednesdays and evening programs for teens/adults. Visit our website for a listing of these fun events.

(251) 410-READ (7323) spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Thomas B. Norton Public Library

221 West 19th Avenue Gulf Shores Summer Reading Program. Join us each Friday at 10:30AM at the Adult Activity Center for a new and exciting performer! June 5, 12, 19, 26, July 10, 17, and 24. All ages welcome! Summer Reading packets with reading logs will be given out at our Summer Reading Kickoff, May 29th, 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

Museums, Historical Sites, Science and Education

Exploreum Science Center

ad on Inside Front Cover

65 Government Street Mobile

Numerous interactive exhibits, thought-provoking larger-than-life Giant Screen films, and fun, hands-on educational programming. Exploreum Science Center offers daiy passes and annual memberships. Visit our website for current listing of exhibits and events.

(251) 208-6893 marketing@exploreum.com www.exploreum.com

Historic Blakeley State Park

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34745 State Highway 225 Spanish Fort Bring the whole family and enjoy more than 25 miles of trails, educational programs, boat cruises, cabins, RV spots and camping. (251) 626-0798 office@blakeleypark.com www.blakeleypark.com

USS ALABAMA Battleship

Memorial Park

ad on page 58

2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile

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

Africatown Heritage House

2465 Winbush St. Mobile

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

Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab

101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island

The Alabama Aquarium’s beautiful visual exhibits and engaging interactive exhibits will help you understand the interactions in Mobile Bay, the fourthlargest estuary system in the United States. Check disl.edu/events for family-friendly experiences. (251) 861-2141 www.disl.edu

Colonial Fort Condé

150 South Royal Street Mobile

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/ colonial-fort-conde/

Dauphin Island Sea Lab

101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island

The Dauphin Island Sea Lab is the 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

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

Foley Railroad Museum

125 East Laurel Avenue Foley

The Depot Museum displays history of the city and the railroad in Foley. Model Train exhibit and trackless train ride. (251) 943-1818 www.foleyrailroadmuseum.com

Fort Gaines

95 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island

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

Step back to 1930s & 40s and see the first clinic & 10 bed hospital in Baldwin County. (251) 970-1818 facebook.com/HolmesMedicalMuseum

Nat’l Maritime Museum of the Gulf

155 South Water Street Mobile

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/

Naval Aviation Museum

1750 Radford Boulevard Pensacola

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

Orange Beach History Museum

25805 John Snook Drive Orange Beach

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.

(251) 981-8545 www.orangebeachal.gov/

Swift-Coles Historic Home

17424 Swift-Coles Lane Bon Secour

Swift Coles Historic Home is open Wednesdays and Fridays, Noon to 5PM. See our Upcoming Events page on our website for all our fun events. (251) 609-4578 www.SwiftColesHistoricHome.com

The History Museum of Mobile

111 South Royal Street Mobile

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

(251) 208-7508 www.museumofmobile.com

Nature Trails, Marine Ed. and Environmental

AWF Delta & Bay Conference Center Conservation Center ad on page 15

30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort Admission is $5.00, $20 max per family, and includes access to: Walking trails, Kayak Launch

use, Discovery Hall and Gift Shop access, Viewing of any scheduled outdoor films in the Theater, Access to any scheduled General Public Programs not subject to additional registration fees alabamawildlife.org/delta-bay-conservation-center/

Bellingrath Gardens and Home

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12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore Bellingrath Gardens and Home features a 65-acre estate Garden and historic Home, and blooms and beauty year-round. Open daily from 8:00am - 5:00pm. (251) 427-3367 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. Visit our website for a list of trails, convention centers and activities. www.alabamabirdingtrails.com

Back Country Trail

24037 Perdido Beach Boulevard Orange Beach 26 trails among nine distinct ecosystems that make up more than 28 miles of paved trails within the 6,150 acres of land inside the park. Enjoy rock climbing, biking, jogging, walking, wildlife, geocaching and more! (251) 981-1063 www.gulfshores.com/

Beach Bike Rentals

4 Market Street Orange Beach

Beach Bike Rentals offers cruiser bikes, e-bikes, tandems, adult trikes, children’s bikes and more. We’ve teamed up with Orange Beach Toys —now you can rent Slingshots, JEEPS & Vanderhalls right here on site. (251) 968-1770 beachbikerentalsorangebeach.com

Bicycle Trails

The Baldwin County Trailblazers advocate for improved and expanded walking and biking op-

portunities in Baldwin County, Alabama. Visit our website for a list of trails. www.baldwincountytrailblazers.org

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

12295 State Highway 180 Gulf Shores

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

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

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Bike Rentals

824 Gulf Shores Pkwy Gulf Shores

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 www.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

USDA Certified Organic. Organic Blueberries, wild blackberries, herbs, flowers. AirBnB’s, events, and Silo Ski and Wake Park. (251) 233-1585 www.weeksbayplantation.com

Weeks Bay Visitor Center

11300 U.S. Highway 98 Fairhope

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

The Community Park features two towering corkscrews slides, a rope-climbing sphere, a musical-instrument lined sidewalk, nauticalthemed 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

Gulf State Park & Nature Center

20115 State Highway 135 Gulf Shores

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.

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

Meaher State Park

5200 Battleship Parkway East Spanish Fort Day-use, 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 Pavilion, splash pad, and more. (214) 561-8884 www.spanishforttowncenter.com

Town of Dauphin Island Parks & Recreation

1011 Bienville Blvd. Dauphin Island

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/

Recreation Centers

Bay Minette Recreation Complex

611 McMeans Avenue Bay Minette

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

Promoting healthy kids, families and communities by offering activities and programs for wellness and family fun. Summer Camps here and second camp site at Spanish Fort Elementary. (251) 626-0888 www.ysal.org

Daphne Recreation Center

2605 US Highway 98 Daphne

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

Instructional classes, swim lessons, swim teams and recreation programs. (251) 968-1420 www.gulfshoresal.gov

Fairhope Rec Center

803 North Greeno Road Fairhope 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

Foley Parks and Rec Department

121 North Alston Street Foley

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 Gymnasium, fitness room, multipurpose, indoor pickleball courts, and more. (251) 981-6028 www.orangebeachal.gov/

Swimming

Fairhope Rec Center Pool

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

Foley Parks & Recreation Swim

300 West Roosevelt Street Foley 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

202 Country Club Drive Daphne

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. https://lakeforestswim.swimtopia.com/

Orange Beach Aquatics Center

4853 Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach 25-yard outdoor heated pool, 11-in-a-half foot diving well with a 1-meter board, tube slide, and a 25 by 25-foot wading/children’s pool with spray features and a slide. Swimming lessons, water aerobics and more. (251) 974-7946 www.orangebeachal.gov/

Tennis

George C. Myers Tennis Center

2049 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores 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

Mike Ford Tennis Center

600 Morphy Avenue Fairhope

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/

Orange Beach Tennis Center & Pickleball Complex

4851 Wilson Boulevard Orange Beach

The Orange Beach Tennis Center features eight lighted hard courts, and the Pickleball Complex features 14 lighted courts, shade cabanas, restrooms, and a pavilion. (251) 974-6387 www.facebook.com/orangebeachtennispickleball

Water Fun, Sailing, Cruises and Tours

Airboat Adventures

3775 Battleship Pkwy Spanish FortT ake 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

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. www.alabamacanoetrails.com

Dauphin Island Marina

650 LeMoyne Drive Dauphin Island

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/

Delta Explorer Boat Cruises

34745 State Highway 225 Spanish Fort

Explore the area’s natural habitat and rich history on one of forty cruise options including Delta Discovery, Port of Mobile, Civil War on the Eastern Shore, lunch and sunset cruises and more. (251) 626-0798 www.blakeleypark.com/Cruises

Dolphin Cruises - Cold Mil Fleet

5749 Bay La Launch Avenue Orange Beach

We offer daytime and sunset cruises, Enjoy amazing views on the water with guaranteed dolphin sightings on every trip.

(251) 943-3510 www.dolphincruises.com

Dolphins Down Under

28101 Perdido Beach Boulevard Orange Beach

Dolphin tours, Sunset Trips and Private Boat Charter. (251) 968-4386 www.dolphinsdownunder.net

Down Under Dive Shop

1129 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores

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 www.downunderdiveshop.com

Fairhope Boat Company

702 N Section St Fairhope

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

Go Go Kayaks rents kayaks, paddle boards, games and more. We deliver fun. (251) 540-7529 www.gogokayaks.com

Mobile Bay Ferry

51 State Highway 180 Dauphin Island

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 Boulevard Orange Beach

Pirate ship cruises, fishing charters, dolphin cruises, pontoon boats, jet ski and kayak rentals, dinner cruises and more. (251) 981-4127 www.hudsonmarina.net

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

1 South Water Street Mobile

Have tons of fun aboard the Perdido Queen, Mobile’s only floating venue! Climb aboard our paddlewheel riverboat for all kinds of family-friendly cruises: educational tours, hilarious murder mysteries and more. (251) 948-6611 www.perdidoqueen.com

Sailaway Charters

24231 Gulf Bay Road Orange Beach

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 www.sailorskip.com

Styx River Tube and Canoe Rental

26091 Waterworld Road Robertsdale

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

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

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

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, kayaking, and environmental education programs.

(251) 424-5909 www.orangebeachal.gov ESP

Saint Andrew by the Sea ad on page 21

17263 Fort Morgan Road Gulf Shores, 36542

Dates: July 6-9 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm

Ages: 3 years-rising 5th grade

Come join us as we deepen our faith and build relationships in Christ! (6th grade and older are welcome to come to volunteer.) (251) 968-3900 www.standrewbythesea.org/ vacation-bible-school

Shorelight Baptist Church

25366 Profit Drive Daphne, 36526

Theme: The Great Jungle Journey: An Epic Cruise from Genesis to Revelation

Dates: May 31 - June 3 Times: 6:00pm-7:30pm

Ages: 4 years - 12 years

At this VBS, your kids will explore the biblical answers to these questions as they set off on an epic adventure from Genesis to Revelation. Amid sloths, butterflies, river dolphins, and dart frogs, your children will sail along on a fun jungle cruise, stopping at seven ports of call. These ports are the 7 C’s of History: Creation, Corruption, Catastrophe, Confusion, Christ, Cross, and Consummation. Kids will discover how these events shape our world, and they will learn to reconnect the Bible to their everyday life. (251) 655-2202 blyles@shorelight.church www.shorelight.church

First Baptist Church of Loxley

1050 North Alabama Street Loxley, 36551

Theme: Rainforest Falls

Dates: May 31-June 4 Times: 6:00pm-8:45pm

Ages: Completed Kindergarten - 6th grade

Registration: https://vbspro.events/p/d07e54 (251) 964-5261 www.fbcloxley.com

3Circle Church

Daphne Campus - 10080 County Road 64 Daphne, 36526

Theme: Camp 3Circle

Dates: June 1-4 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

3Circle Church

Fairhope Campus - 10274 State Highway 104 Fairhope, 36532

Theme: Camp 3Circle

Dates: June 1-4 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

Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church

320 Presbyterian Drive Fairhope, 36532

Theme: The Wild West VBS :”For the Son of Man came to seek and save the lost” Luke 19:10

Dates: June 1-4, Kick Off May 31 Times: 9:00am12:00pm Ages: (going into) K5 - 6th grade

Saddle up, grab your friends, and join us for an amazing week of Bible stories, games, crafts, and fun! We can’t wait to see you at Wild West VBS! (251) 210-1226 adavey@easternshorepca.org bdavey@easternshorepca.org www.myvbs.org/espcvbs

First Baptist Church of Foley

221 North Alston Street Foley, 36535

Dates: June 1-4 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm

Ages: K - 6th grade

Sports & Art Camp (251) 943-8352 tspradlin@fbcfoley.com www.fbcfoley.com

Spanish Fort United Methodist Church

6530 Spanish Fort Blvd. Ste D Spanish Fort, 36527

Theme: Rainforest Falls

Dates: June 1-4 Times: 5:30pm–7:30pm

Ages: 5 years (by 9/1/2026)- completed 5th grade

Exploring the Nature of God (251) 626-1334 children@spanishfortumc.org www.spanishfortumc.org/vbs/

First Baptist Gulf Shores

2300 West 1st Street Gulf Shores, 36542

Theme: Emerald Crossing

Dates: June 1-5 Times: 8:00am-12:00pm

Ages: 5 years-5th grade (251) 968-7369 www.fbcgulf.com/

Fairhope UMC

155 South Section Street Fairhope, 36532

Theme: Rainforest Falls

Dates: June 1-5 Times: 8:45am - 12:15pm

Ages: 3 years – rising 6th grade

Step through the mist into Rainforest Falls, overflowing with wild waterfalls, towering trees, and colorful creatures. Beneath a canopy of chattering birds and howling monkeys, kids plunge into a lifelong adventure of discovering the nature of God. They’ll explore what it means to be rooted in relationship with God, their creator, a safe place in life’s storms. (251) 928-1148 www.fairhopeumc.org

Restoration Place Church

1201 US Highway 98, Daphne, AL 36526

Theme: Summer Blast

Dates: June 3–5 Times: 6:00pm-8:00pm

Register online at restorationplacechurch.org. www.restorationplacechurch.org

Gulf Shores Church of Christ

2414 W 1st St, Gulf Shores, 36542

Theme: Joy Story

Dates: June 7-9 Times: 5:30pm-8:00pm

Ages: K3-5th grade (251) 968-7769 gulfshoreschurchofchrist.org

3Circle Church

Robertsdale High School-21630 Hwy 59

Robertsdale, 36567

Theme: Camp 3Circle

Dates: June 7, 14, 21, 28 Times: 5:15pm-8:00pm

Ages: 4 years - 4th grade

Camp 3Circle-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

Spanish Fort Presbyterian Church

6620 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527

Theme: Snowball Mountain Challenge

Dates: June 8-11 Times: 6:00pm-8:00pm

Ages: Rising Kindergarten - 5th grade

The children will study Philippians 4:13, discovering they can find their strength in God. We will have a cool VBS by playing frosty games, having snowy surprises and learning from powerful stories of courage and hope. (251) 626-1242 churchoffice@spanishfortpc.com www.spanishfortpresbyterian.com

Eastern Shore Baptist Church

6847 Park Drive Daphne, 36526

Theme: Illumination Station

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

Ages: Completed K - 6th grade Register at myesbc.net (251) 626-5550 leann@myesbc.net www.myesbc.net

Fish River Baptist Church

17140 County Road 33 Fairhope, 36532

Theme: Lifeway Illumination Station

Dates: June 14-17 Times: Sunday 10am-2pm, Monday-Wednesday 6:00pm-8:30pm Ages: Kindergarten- 6th grade (251) 928-0402 fishriverbaptist@att.net www.fishriverbaptistchurch.com

Providence UMC VBS

32200 Jimmy Faulkner Drive Spanish Fort, 36527

Theme: Rainforest Falls

Dates: June 14-18 Times: 5:30pm-7:45pm

Ages: Kindergarten -Completed 5th grade Dinner served each night. Join us for Bible adventures, singing, games and fellowship! Register online at Providencemethodist.org. Questions- Text 251-463-4765 (251) 626-2510 providencemethodist.org/vbs/

Faith Family Fellowship

7100 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Theme: Emerald Crossing: An Irish Adventure through Psalm 23

Dates: June 15-18, Kickoff June 14-5-7pm

Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: Completed Kcompleted 6th grade

Registration: https://campfaith2026.myanswers. com/emerald-crossing/ (251) 626-1379 daisy@faithfamilyonline.com www.faithfamilyonline.com

Christ Presbyterian Church

8450 Whispering Pines Road Daphne, 36526

Theme: Rome (Paul & the Underground Church)

Dates: June 15-19 Times: 5:15pm - 7:30pm

Ages: 5 years - 12 years

Welcome to Rome! Our VBS will help children discover what it was like to be one of the very first Christians. From shopping in the marketplace to Paul and the underground church, we will learn about the lives of the first Christians! (251) 621-9444 www.cpcdaphne.com

Trinity Presbyterian Church

545 South Mobile Street Fairhope, 36532

Theme: Rainforest Falls-Exploring the Nature of God

Dates: June 16-18 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm

Ages: Completed K - 4th grade

Registration: https://vbspro.events/p/683991 (251) 928-2524 www.tpcfairhope.org

Church of the Highlands

2603 US Hwy 98 Daphne, 36526

Theme: Summer Blast

Dates: June 22-24 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm

Ages: K - 6th grade

Each child will experience a high-energy environment as they rotate through stations like The Show, crafts, snacks, and games—each designed to bring God’s Word to life. Registration: https://connect.churchofthehighlands.com/ summer-blast churchofthehighlands.com/campuses/daphne

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

28788 North Main Street Daphne, 36526

Theme: Rainforest Falls

Dates: June 29-July 2

Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: K4-entering 5th grade

Get ready to embark on a wild, creature-filled adventure at Rainforest Falls where kids learn that God is Creator, All-knowing, our Refuge, Love, and Forever. (251) 626-2421 www.stpaulseasternshore.com

First Baptist Church of Spanish Fort

8353 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, 36527

Theme: Rome-Paul and the Underground Church

Dates: June 22-25

Times: 5:30pm-8:00pm

Ages: K3-6th grade (251) 626-3070 www.fbcspanishfort.com

Gulf Shores Methodist ChurchSouth Campus

1900 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542

Theme: Rainforest Falls

Dates: June 22–25 Times: 5:30pm-7:30pm Ages: 4 years-6th grade

Registration: https://gulfshoresmc.churchcenter. com/registrations/events/3526465 (251) 968-2411 www.gulfshores.church

First Methodist Church of Bay Minette

120 West 2nd Street Bay Minette, 36507

Theme: Rainforest Falls

Dates: June 22-26 Times: 8:30am-12:00pm

Ages: rising K-6th grade (251) 937-8303 vbspro.events/p/bayminettevbs26

East Pointe Baptist Church

34742 Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, 36527

Theme: Emerald Crossing – An Irish Adventure Through Psalm 23 (an Answers in Genesis curriculum)

Dates: June 22-26 Times: 9:00am – 12:00pm

Ages: Completed Kindergarten – Completed 6th Grade

Journey through Ireland in Emerald Crossing, where Psalm 23 comes to life! Kids will explore God as Shepherd, Guide, Comforter, Provider, and King through David’s story, hands-on activities, and apologetics. From Donegal’s green pastures to Dublin’s Viking history, each day reveals how God leads, protects, and provides. Join the adventure! To register, visit https://eastpointebaptistchurch.myanswers.com/emeraldcrossing/. (251) 626-6263 info@eastpointebaptistchurch.com www.eastpointebaptistchurch.com

Summerdale Church of Christ

1070 Hwy 59 S Summerdale, 36580

Theme: Digging Through God’s Word

Dates: June 28-July 1 Times: 5:45PM (Dinner nightly) VBS begins at 6:30PM Ages: Infants - 6th Grade, and an adult class

Pre-register on our website (251) 989-2538 www.summerdalechurch.org

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

28788 North Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526

Theme: Rainforest Falls

Dates: June 29-July 2 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm

Ages: K4-entering 5th grade

Get ready to embark on a wild, creature-filled adventure at Rainforest Falls where kids learn that God is Creator, All-knowing, our Refuge, Love, and Forever. (251) 626-2421 officestpaulsdaphne@gmail.com www.stpaulseasternshore.com

St. Paul’s Lutheran (Foley)

400 N Alston Street Foley, 36535

Dates: July 6-10 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: K-6th grade (251) 943-6931 stpauls.lcms.foley@gmail.com www.stpaulslcms.com

City Hope Church

29964 Saint Basil St Daphne, 36526

Dates: July 13-16 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm

Ages: 3 years - 1st Grade

At Camp Jr., kids will experience a fun and engaging day designed just for them! Each day includes both a Large Group experience and Small Group time, where kids will learn about the Bible in ways they can understand and enjoy. During the Large Group experience, kids

will gather together for exciting games, energetic worship, and an engaging Bible lesson that introduces the theme for the day. In Small Groups, kids will participate in crafts, object lessons, games, and activities that help reinforce the Bible lesson. (251) 626-0123 hello@cityhope.cc cityhope.cc/camps

Jubilee Baptist Church

9264 Pleasant Road Daphne, 36526

Theme: Kingdom Quest

Dates: July 13-16 Times: 5:30pm-8:00pm (Doors Open at 5:30) Ages: Completed Kindergarten6th grade by May 2026

A high-energy, medieval adventure where kids train to follow Jesus, seek His truth, and live for His Kingdom. Each day’s quest draws them deeper into God’s Word and closer to the King! Online Registration is required. Register at www. jubileebaptist.com

(251) 621-7095 jubileebaptistvbs@jubileebaptist.com www.jubileebaptist.com

Barnwell Baptist Church

7780 US Highway 98 Fairhope, 36532

Theme: Illumination Station

Dates: July 13-17 Times: 8:30am-12:00pm

Ages: K-6th grade (251) 928-8286 https://barnwellbaptist.net/

City Hope Church

21270 Miflin Road Foley, 36535

Dates: July 13–16 Times: 9:00am-12:00pm

Ages: 3 years - 1st Grade

Kids will experience a fun and engaging day designed just for them! Each day includes both a Large Group experience and Small Group time,

appointment.

where kids will learn about the Bible in ways they can understand and enjoy. During the Large Group experience, kids will gather together for exciting games, energetic worship, and an engaging Bible lesson that introduces the theme for the day. In Small Groups, kids will participate in crafts, object lessons, games, and activities that help reinforce the Bible lesson. (251) 626-0123 cityhope.cc/camps

Robertsdale Church of Christ

18250 Pennsylvania St Robertsdale, 36567

Theme: Under the Big Top Dates: July 14-16 Times: 6:00pm-8:00pm, Dinner 5:00pm-5:45pm Ages: All ages

We will have family dinner each evening from 5:00 - 5:45 PM in the Fellowship Hall. We will have classes and activities for all ages, Newborn to Adult. There will be a Teen / Adult class with a guest speaker each evening. Children Nursery6th Grade can pre-register today. (251) 947-7128 www.robertsdalechurch.com

Celebration Church

8180 Dyer Road Fairhope, 36532

Theme: Girls Conference

Dates: July 17–18

Times: Friday 5PM-8PM, Saturday 8:30AM–12PM Ages: Girls K-6th grade

Girls will enjoy powerful worship, a message from a special guest speaker, fun preservice games, and time with friends. On Saturday morning, they’ll also rotate through creative stations like bracelet making, hair styling, fun crafts, and more. This weekend is designed to help girls grow in their faith, build friendships, and discover what it means to live with hearts set apart for God. Dinner and Breakfast provided Cost $30 per child (251) 928-0343 www.fairhopechurch.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/3525679

Spanish Fort Church of Christ

8100 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort, AL 36527

Theme: Journey to Mars

Dates: July 19-22

Times: 6:00pm-8:00pm Ages: 3+

Registration: https://spanishfortchurch.org/vbsregistration (251) 626-3064 www.spanishfortchurch.org

Orange Beach Church

28751 Canal Road Orange Beach, 36561

Dates: July 26-30 Times: 5:30pm-8:00pm

Ages: Entering K - 4th grade (251) 981-6751 www.ob.church

Redeemer Lutheran Church

200 S. Section St. Fairhope, 36532

Theme: Water of Life: Covered in Jesus’ Grace

Dates: July 27-31

Times: 1:30pm-4:00pm

Ages: Completed K-6th Grade 251-928-8391 https://redeemerfairhope.org/

Celebration Church

8180 Dyer Road Fairhope, 36532

Theme: Summer Surge: Kingdom Quest

Dates: July 27–29 Times: 9am-4pm Ages: 5-12

Enjoy fun games, epic challenges, inspiring worship, and powerful messages that help them grow in their faith. Lunch is provided, and the cost is $60 per child.

(251) 928-0343 fairhopechurch.com/event/ summer-surge-kingdom-quest/2026-07-27

By mid-June, many parents feel two things at once: relief that the packed lunches and homework folders are gone, and worry about what three months away from school might mean. We have all heard the phrase “summer slide.” It conjures images of forgotten math facts and dusty spelling lists. And yet, most of us realize that our children need rest in the summer. They need long afternoons, wasted time, freedom, and even boredom.

The goal of preventing the summer slide is not to recreate school at home. It is to weave learning into daily life so that their skills stay active without summer feeling like work.

Here are some suggestions:

1) Make Reading a Ritual, Not a Requirement: If there is one habit worth protecting over the summer, it is reading. Not tracked reading or quizbased reading. But reading that feels like a privilege and a pleasure.

Create small rituals that make books feel special. Plan a weekly library visit where your child can choose anything they like - even graphic novels or joke books. Offer a blanket in the backyard for afternoon reading time. Encourage flashlight reading in a darkened bedroom on Friday nights.

Audiobooks make engaging with stories easy, and they count. Listening in the car keeps vocabulary and comprehension growing, even on busy days.

Research suggests that you can let go of strict reading level expectations. Studies have shown that reading volume matters more than reading difficulty. When kids read more, their skills grow. If that means a stack of fantasy novels or an entire summer of animal fact books, that still matters.

The aim is consistency, not perfection.Twenty minutes most days is enough to keep the skill fresh.

2) Hide Math in Plain Sight: Math doesn’t need a summer worksheet. It just needs to be put into practice.

Ask your child to double a pancake recipe. Have them estimate the grocery total before checkout. Let them compare prices when you are choosing between brands. Invite them to measure the space for a new bookshelf or calculate how many bags of mulch the yard might need.

These small calculations do more than preserve skills. They teach children that math is useful, not abstract.

Board games are another place to hide math. Strategy games strengthen number skills, logic, and planning. Card games build mental math fluency without anyone announcing that math practice is happening.

The key is casual repetition.

3) Encourage Writing With a Purpose: Writing over the summer should feel expressive, not evaluated. Invite your child to keep a simple journal about summer thoughts and adventures. It does not have to be done daily, and it can be messy or abstract. Younger children can dictate while you

write. Older children might enjoy comicstyle storytelling or creating their own graphic panels.

Postcards or letters to friends or relatives are another sneaky writing exercise. When children write to communicate something they care about, they practice structure and clarity without feeling corrected.

You might even start a shared family notebook that rotates each week. One person writes a question or a memory, and another responds. It becomes a keepsake while quietly strengthening skills.

4) Protect Curiosity: Academic growth is not only about maintaining grade-level skills. It is also about protecting curiosity.

Choose one topic your child loves and let them go deep with it. It might be sharks. ancient Egypt, space travel, baking, or basketball. Spend a few weeks reading about it, watching documentaries, visiting a related museum, or building something inspired by it.

each week, writing occasionally, and protecting large blocks of unstructured time so kids can pursue their own curiosity.

That’s it. You do not need a curriculum. You just need consistency and a home culture that values books, questions, and conversation. If your child resists structured time, shorten it. Ten focused minutes are better than a power struggle that lasts thirty. The tone you set matters more than the minutes you log.

6) Let

Go of Any Pressure:

It is important to remember that academic skills do not evaporate overnight. Yes, research shows that some loss can occur over the summer, particularly in math. But it also shows that regular exposure and reading for pleasure can significantly reduce that loss.

What children gain in summer is

When children explore what fascinates them, they practice research, critical thinking, and communication. They learn how to ask questions that interest them, which is at the heart of lifelong learning.

This is also where boredom earns its reputation as a gift. Unscheduled time pushes children to invent games, construct forts, and negotiate social conflicts. All of those experiences build cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills that no workbook can replicate.

5) Keep It Light and Predictable: One of the most effective ways to prevent the summer slide is to build a simple rhythm.

It might look like reading most days, including a few real-life math moments

equally valuable. Independence, creativity, and family connection are also important. When we approach summer as a season of growth rather than remediation, something shifts. When we stop asking, “How do I keep my child from falling behind?” and start asking, “How can I help my child stay engaged with the world?” children are more willing to participate.

A child who reads because it feels cozy, who measures flour because it helps make cookies, and who writes a note because it matters to someone they love, is not sliding backward.

They are enjoying their summer, which is exactly what they’re supposed to do.

Shannon Dean is a freelance writer and the mother of two sons. She specializes in writing about families and women’s health.

By Anderson McKean By Anderson McKean

National Archive Hunters National Archive Hunters by Matthew Landis by Matthew Landis

Twins race to find the thief stealing valuable historical artifacts before their family’s framed for the crimes in this high-octane action series starter for fans of City Spies and Alex Rider.

Basil Basil & Dahlia & Dahlia by Joy McCollough by Joy McCollough

Two orphan siblings with truly terrible luck battle an evil celebrity chef in this uproarious illustrated romp with the dark humor of A Series of Unfortunate Events and The Beast and the Bethany.

TThe he Book of Stolen Dreams Book of Stolen Dreams by David Farr by David Farr

An exhilarating, heartwarming debut about a brother and sister on a thrilling quest to defeat a tyrannical ruler and protect a magical book. Perfect for fans of Kelly Barnhill and Lemony Snicket!

TThe he Mystery of Locked Rooms Mystery of Locked Rooms by Lindsay Currie by Lindsay Currie

Crack the codes. Find the treasure. Escape the house. From the acclaimed author of Scritch Scratch comes a action-packed adventure novel about three friends who team up to find a hidden treasure in an abandoned 1950's funhouse!

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

The Sheep Detectives

Remarkably Bright Creatures

Every night a shepherd reads detective novels to his flock, unaware that they are fascinated by the mysteries. When the sheep find his body, they are devastated and decide to work together to unmask his killer. In true whodunit fashion, the plot teems with suspects, motives, and drama: distinctively, this story also features plenty of humor, existential musings, and solid messages about bigotry and inclusion. Charming, sweet, and a little silly, this is a clean, warm-hearted film that’s suitable for older children and will still be enjoyed by adults. Photo ©Amazon

Marcellus is a Giant Pacific octopus, languishing in an aquarium tank. Despite his desperate wish to return to the silence of the sea, he takes an interest in Tova, the cleaning lady who speaks to him every night. When an aimless young man enters the picture, Marcellus tries to help him too…Blessed with an outstanding cast (particularly Sally Field as Tova and Alfred Molina voicing Marcellus), this is a touching film that brims over with themes of friendship, compassion, and the power of family and community. It’s one of Netflix’s best films. Photo

Ollie is a Pookoo, tiny creatures who have been swept from their homes by large birds. One day, Ollie stumbles across a magic pod which triggers a body-swap with a bird, and now the two of them must work together to reclaim their own bodies. The film is skillfully animated and contains minimal negative content, but it is overstuffed with often underdeveloped messages on friendship, betrayal, prejudice, community, colonialism, and the environment. That won’t prevent kids from enjoying the film, though.

Animal Farm

With Runway embroiled in a scandal, indomitable editor Miranda Priestly is in the hot seat. To boost the magazine’s reputation, the publisher parachutes in an awardwinning journalist – none other than Andy Sachs, Miranda’s long ago second assistant. The two women will need to cooperate to overcome market forces, a scheming nemesis, and a self-absorbed billionaire. Fans of the original film will get exactly what they want from this sequel: more Meryl Streep, over-the-top fashion, and some good laughs.

“All animals are equal” is the founding statement of Animal Farm, created when livestock rebel against the farmer sending them to the slaughterhouse. Sadly, their ideals quickly fade as the pigs establish another exploitative system in cooperation with a business titan who uses consumer goods to manipulate them. This film is a clumsily animated, poorly written adaptation of the classic 20th century novella, changing not only the story’s ending, but also distorting its central themes. The book is so much better. Photo ©Angel Studios

The Devil Wears Prada 2

FamilyCalendar

Monday June 1

2026 Summer Reading Program Kickoff

10:00 AM Daphne Civic Center, Daphne, AL, 36526 The 2026 Summer Reading Program Kickoff will be on Monday, June 1 at 10:00 AM at the Daphne Civic Center. Come and pick up a bag with everything your child will need to participate in Summer Reading. There will be free hotdogs and entertainment provided by The WOW Factor Science Show at 10:45 AM. 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Spanish Fort Summer Reading

Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Registered participants can earn tickets June 1st - July 25th by checking out books, completing their summer BINGO sheets, and participating in library programming! Tickets can be redeemed for items in the reward catalog!

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Tuesday June 2

Summer Reading Programs - Spanish Fort Library

10:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Summer Reading Program - Dino Dance Party

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Jelly Roll in Concert

7:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Jelly Roll with special guest Kashus Culpepper is coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on June 2 as part of the 2026 C Spire Concert Series! https://alwharf.com/

Wednesday June 3

Summer Reading Kickoff-Fairhope Public Library (Free)

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Outside - Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Come join us outside the library to kickoff our 2026 Summer Reading Program! Come get your reading log and goodie bag, meet some awesome organizations from around Fairhope, and get ready for your summer of art and adventure!

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Evening Programs Teens

5:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Teens The Dinosaurs - Ep1 & Geode charms

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Thursday June 4

Petting Zoo Day

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 16199 South Ave Silverhill, AL, 36576 Join us for our annual Petting Zoo Day with Maynard Farms and Shaved Ice Paradise.

Fairhope Farmers Market

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Behind Fairhope Public Library, Fairhope, AL, 36532 The farmer’s market features a varied selection of individual booths selling local produce, plants, honey, baked items, handmade soaps, gifts, and more.

Outdoor Storytime - Farmer’s Market

4:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join us behind Fairhope Public Library during the City of Fairhope’s Farmer’s Market for a very special storytime and activity! www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Friday June 5

South Baldwin Community Theatre Presents Living and Coming Back

7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz

Saturday June 6

First Saturday Fairhope Farmers Market

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Behind Fairhope Public Library, Fairhope, AL, 36532 The farmer’s market features a varied selection of individual booths selling local produce, plants, honey, baked items, handmade soaps, gifts, and more.

Hello Summer Market

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Baldwin County Coliseum, 19477 Fairground Rd Robertsdale, AL The 2026 Hello Summer Market is a family-friendly market with local vendors, handmade goods, food, and a dedicated outdoor kids area. Shop small, support local, and enjoy a fun day with the family!

www.gulfshores.com/events-calendar/community/ hello-summer-market/

Walk for Epilepsy

10:00 AM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy. Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us inperson or virtually to raise awareness and funds as we Walk FOR Epilepsy! With each step taken and dollar raised, we’re closer to reaching our vision: a world where no one faces epilepsy alone. https://donate.epilepsy.com/Mobile

Gary Allan + Tracy Lawrence in Concert

5:30 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Gary Allan + Tracy Lawrence with special guests Diamond Rio and Easton Corbin are coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on June 6 as part of the 2026 C Spire Concert Series! https://alwharf.com/

South Baldwin Community Theatre Presents Living and Coming Back

7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz

Living History Drill

USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy. Mobile, AL, 36602 Come see history come to life with our WWII reenactors during the Living Drill 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/events/

Sunday June 7

Malbis Market

10:00 AM Historic Malbis Nursery, 10145 US-90 Daphne, AL, 36526 Join us for the Malbis Summer Market on Sunday, June 7th. We will be showcasing over 50 local vendors! This is a FREE family friendly event.

Founders Day at Colonial Fort Condé (Free) 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Colonial Fort Condé, 150 South Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Meet the founders of Mobile — Iberville, Bienville, De Tonti, and De Graaf — along with the city’s “Founding Mothers,” the Pelican Girls. Through lively conversations and interac-

tive demonstrations, discover what life was really like in colonial Mobile and how these early settlers helped shape our city’s history. Enjoy exciting military drills, explore the weapons and trade of the 1700s, and learn how French settlers adapted their cooking traditions to the North American climate and ingredients. Bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun learning experiences and living history demonstrations.

South Baldwin Community Theatre Presents Living and Coming Back

2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz

Monday June 8

Unearth New Foods & Flavors with Ms. Surani 10:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Unearth New Foods & Flavors with Ms. Surani, 6/8: Pinwheels, ages 11 & under 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Tuesday June 9

Summer Reading ProgramsSpanish Fort Library

10:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Summer Reading Program - Freedom Ranch 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Wednesday June 10

Rebecca McClantoc -- Storytime 10:00 AM Page & Palette, 32 S Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join us at Page & Palette for an author storytime! On Wednesday, June 10th at 10AM, Rebecca McClantoc will be here with her book, The Lonely Penny. We hope to see you there! 251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com

Unearth New Foods & Flavors with Ms. Surani 10:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Unearth New Foods & Flavors with Ms. Surani, 6/15: 6/10: Poke Bowl, ages 12 & over 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Big Event Wednesdays

10:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Friday June 12

Eastern Shore Chamber Music Festival

7:00 PM St. James Episcopal Church, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Eastern Shore Chamber Music Festival www.stjamesfairhope.org/

Sunset Cruise from the AWF Delta and Bay Conservation Center at Five Rivers

7:15 PM Bartram Landing, 30841 Five Rivers Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Come along on a brief relaxing voyage departing from the Bartram Landing at the AWF Delta and Bay Conservation Center at Five Rivers as we experience nature’s splendor and be back in time to grab a seafood dinner on the Causeway! www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

South Baldwin Community Theatre Presents Living and Coming Back Details on June 6.

FamilyCalendar

Zach Top Concert

7:30 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Zach Top with special guest Cole Goodwin is coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on Friday, June 12 + Saturday, June 13 as part of the 2026 C Spire Concert Series. https://alwharf.com/

Gator Cruise

8:30 PM Bartram Landing, 30841 Five Rivers Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us for an evening adventure into some of the secluded reaches of the lower Delta as we look for alligators and other nocturnal Delta wildlife. www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

Saturday June 13

Taste of Baldwin Food Truck Battle

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Baldwin County Heritage Museum, 25521 US-98 Elberta, AL, 36530 Join us for the Taste of Baldwin Food Truck Battle, where some of the best food trucks in the region will compete to see who has the best food in Baldwin County. baldwincoheritagemuseum.net

15th Annual Children’s Cup Regatta

10:30 AM Fairhope Yacht Club, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join us on June 6, 2026 at the Fairhope Yacht Club for family friendly sailboat racing, a silent auction, dinner, and kids activities. http://give.childrensal.org/childrenscup

Delta Discovery Tour

1:00 PM Bartram Landing, 30841 Five Rivers Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 These 90-minute excursions into the wild and scenic Mobile-Tensaw Delta--known as the “American Amazon,”--introduce visitors and residents alike to a truly astounding natural habitat. www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

Tracie Richardson Author Signing

1:00 PM Page & Palette, 32 S Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 Meet Tracie Richardson on Saturday, June 13th at Page & Palette! Stop by between 1-3PM to grab a coffee and get a copy of The Imperfect Cookie signed. 251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com

Anchor Cross Cancer Foundation to Host 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://anchorcrossfoundation.org/masquerade-ball/

South Baldwin Community Theatre Presents Living and Coming Back

7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz

Zach Top Concert

7:30 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Zach Top with special guest

Cole Goodwin is coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on Friday, June 12 + Saturday, June 13 as part of the 2026 C Spire Concert Series. https://alwharf.com/

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

Sunday June 14

South Baldwin Community Theatre Presents Living and Coming Back

2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 www.sbct.biz

Monday June 15

Unearth New Foods & Flavors with Ms. Surani 10:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Unearth New Foods & Flavors with Ms. Surani, 6/15: Green Salad, ages 11 & under 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Daphne Summer Reading Weekly Entertainment 10:30 AM Daphne City Hall, 1705 Main St Daphne, AL, 36526 Daphne Summer Reading Weekly Entertainment at 10:30am. 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Luke Day 2026

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, 6423 Bayfront Park Dr Daphne, AL, 36526 What is Luke Day? It’s a pawsome day dedicated to celebrating our beloved mascot Luke AND giving back to our community through service and outreach. NextHome Gulf Coast Living, along with our amazing partner at Moe’s Original BBQ, invite YOU to join us on Monday, June 15 at 5:00PM for an unforgettable evening benefiting our local no-kill shelter, The Haven. Enjoy: Delicious food, Cold beverages, Fun games, Exciting prizes, And giving back!

Tuesday June 16

Salt Marsh Excursion ($15 per person)

9:45 AM Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 102 A Bienville Blvd. Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The salt marsh is a vital habitat for juvenile fishes, shrimp, and crabs. This excursion gives you the chance to become the marine scientist for the day and get an up close look at the inhabitants of the salt marsh habitat. You’ll learn how to collect samples and specimens. www.disl.edu/events/salt-marsh-excursion/

Summer Reading - Spanish Fort Library

10:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Bay Area Performing Arts Presents Little Shop of Horrors

8724 Rand Avenue Daphne, AL, 36526 Bay Area Performing Arts Presents Little Shop of Horrors, Alumnae Show July 16-19

https://bayareaperformingarts.com/

Wednesday June 17

Big Event Wednesdays

10:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Big Event Wednesdays –

Giddens, summer reading events. www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Tracie Richardson -- Author Storytime

10:00 AM Page & Palette, 32 S Section Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join us at Page & Palette for an author storytime! On Wednesday, June 17th at 10AM, Tracie Richardson will be back to read her book, The Imperfect Cookie. Enjoy a cookie as you listen to Tracie’s storytime. We hope to see you there! 251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com

Evening Programs Teens

5:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Teens The Dinosaurs - Chibi Crochet with Ms. Heather 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Bay Area Performing Arts Presents Little Shop of Horrors

8724 Rand Avenue Daphne, AL, 36526 Bay Area Performing Arts Presents Little Shop of Horrors, Alumnae Show July 16-19 https://bayareaperformingarts.com/

Thursday June 18

Self Defense Class for Completed 3rd-5th Grades 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 16111 South Ave Silverhill, AL, 36576 Join our SRO Officer Daniel for a class on self defense. For children that have completed 3rd-8th grade.

Saturday June 20

Lulu’s presents Doc’s Hot Trot for ARC 7:30 AM Lulu’s at Homeport Marina, 200 E 25th Avenue Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Funds raised go to ARC-Baldwin County

www.active.com/gulf-shores-al/running/distance-running-races/lulu-s-presents-doc-s-hot-trot-for-arc-2026

WKRG Gulf Coast Home and Outdoor Expo

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 U.S. Highway 98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Bringing together all of the Gulf Coast’s best home improvement companies. You’ll find everything from roofing to appliances and all your outdoor living needs at the Gulf Coast Home and Outdoor Expo.

Port of Mobile Cruise

9:00 AM Blakeley State Park Dock, Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 This cruise winds through the scenic delta and down the historic Mobile River for a relaxing voyage through the Port of Mobile. www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

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://coastalalabamamarket.com/events

2026 Ovation Gala

6:00 PM Fairhope Civic Center, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join the Baldwin Pops for our annual fundraising event and enjoy dinner, dancing and a silent auction https://www.eventbrite.com

FamilyCalendar

24 Hour Play Festival

7:00 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 W. 2nd St Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 24 Hour Play Festival www.sbct.biz/

Monday June 22

Daphne Summer Reading Weekly Entertainment

10:30 AM Daphne City Hall, 1705 Main St Daphne, AL, 36526 Daphne Summer Reading Weekly Entertainment at 10:30am. 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Tuesday June 23

Summer Reading Programs - Spanish Fort

10:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Summer Reading Program - Miss Calliope 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Wednesday June 24

Big Event Wednesdays

10:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Big Event Wednesdays –Giddens, summer reading events. www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Thursday June 25

Distinguished Young Women Preliminary

7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 S. Joachim St. Mobile, AL, 36602 Distinguished Young Women National Finals is the culminating event of the Distinguished Young Women program, where high school senior representatives from across the United States compete for national scholarships and the title of America’s Distinguished Young Woman. www.distinguishedyw.org/

Friday June 26

America 250 Celebration

4:00 PM Daphne Civic Center, Daphne, AL, 36526 Celebrating 250 years of American History and Freedom. Free to the public. Special performance by Alabama Army National Guard Band.

Distinguished Young Women Preliminary Details on June 25.

Saturday June 27

Cruise to Gaillard Island

9:00 AM Bartram Landing, 30841 Five Rivers Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Gaillard Island, which is man-made from dredge material from the Theodore Industrial Canal, is one of the largest pelican rookeries on the northern Gulf Coast. www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

Stars & Stripes Summer Soirée

6:00 PM Orange Beach Event Center at The Wharf, 4671 Wharf Pkwy. Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Join us for the Stars & Stripes Summer Soirée! This fun-for-the-whole-family evening is for parents, grandparents, and kids alike! The night will feature: Delicious dinner, Live DJ & dancing, Interactive activities for all ages, Door prizes & surprises, Professional family photos to capture the night, Dress up, bring your people, and get ready for a night full of laughter, connection, and unforgettable memories. www.gulfshores.com

Distinguished Young Women National Finals Details on June 25.

Monday June 29

Daphne Summer Reading Weekly Entertainment

10:30 AM Daphne City Hall, 1705 Main St Daphne, AL, 36526 Daphne Summer Reading Weekly Entertainment at 10:30am.

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

Tuesday June 30

Summer Reading ProgramsSpanish Fort Library

10:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Summer Reading Program - Classical Ballet Academy & Theatre Ballet Theatre

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

The Princess Concert

3:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 S. Joachim St. Mobile, AL, 36602 The Princess Concert brings beloved fairytale favorites to life with soaring live vocals, playful storytelling moments and sparkling costumes that make every song feel like a scene from a storybook. Expect sing-alongs, sweet surprises and plenty of magical energy! www.regionsarena.com/saenger-theatre

Thursday July 2

Independence Day Street Party presented by The City of Orange Beach

5:00 PM - 9:30 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Independence Day Party-Kids’ Activities: 5-9 pm, Fireworks: 9 pm, Drone Show: 9:15 pm, SPECTRA Laser Light Experience: following fireworks show 251-224-1000 https://alwharf.com/

Elberta Independence in the Park

5:00 PM 24950 Pine St Elberta, AL, 36530 Evening of food, drink and fun! Feast on Local Flavors: We’re hosting a lineup of local food trucks, plus ice cream and snow-cone vendors to keep you cool. We will also have can Coca-Cola products for sale. Family Fun: Let the kids burn off energy in the bounce houses while you enjoy a festive soundtrack of family-friendly music playing throughout the park. Our spectacular fireworks display caps off the night around 8:45 PM. ....and lots more! Visit the event website at https:// www.elbertacp.org/iitp

Friday July 3

Annual MBGFC Junior Angler Tournament

12:00 PM Orange Beach Marina Inc., Orange Beach, AL, 36561 12.00 pm – 2.00 pm Registration Check-in/ Party: MBGFC Clubhouse, 2:00 pm Captain’s Meeting, you can leave after https://mbgfc.org/tournaments/

Gavin Adcock in Concert

7:00 PM The Wharf Amphitheater, 23101 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Gavin Adcock is coming to The Wharf Amphitheater on July 3 as part of the 2026 C Spire Concert Series. https://alwharf.com/

Fourth of July Weekend Party-OWA OWA, 101-N South OWA Blvd. Foley, AL, 36535

Celebrate Independence Day all weekend long at Downtown OWA with three days of live entertainment, festive activities, and family-friendly fun. https://visitowa.com/

Saturday July 4

12th Annual Shark Run 5K

7:00 AM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The 12th 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. Register now to come out and celebrate your Independence Day with us! https://alwharf.com/

Lower Delta Tour

5:00 PM Blakeley State Park Dock, Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Explore the forgotten southern reaches of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta on this unique two-hour adventure through a hidden natural habitat just minutes from Mobile and the communities of Eastern Shore. www.blakeleypark.com/Things-to-Do/Events

4th of July Celebration: America’s 250th

5:30 PM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy. Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for the City of Mobile’s 4th of July Celebration, honoring America’s 250th anniversary! Enjoy live music, food trucks, local vendors, nonprofits, games, familyfriendly activities and a breathtaking fireworks show. https://www.mobile.org

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, 2026, 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

Mobile Bay Fireworks Cruise

8:45 PM Blakeley State Park Dock, 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-Gulf Shores

9:00 PM Gulf State Park, Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 The fireworks display will be launched from the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier, beginning promptly at 9 p.m. 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. www.gulfshoresal.gov/

4th of JulyCity of Daphne

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

4th of July Celebration Cruise

Perdido Queen Cruises, 1 S. Water St. Mobile, AL, 36602 Learn about the facets of the Mobile River, solve a murder case or celebrate the night with some live music and fireworks! 11 a.m. Port Tour, 3:30 p.m. Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise, 7:30 p.m. Live Music Dinner Cruise https://perdidoqueen.com/

Annual MBGFC Junior Angler Tournament

Orange Beach Marina Inc., Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https://mbgfc.org/tournaments/

Fourth of July Weekend Party-OWA

OWA, 101-N South OWA Blvd. Foley, AL, 36535 Celebrate Independence Day all weekend long at

FamilyCalendar

Downtown OWA with three days of live entertainment, festive activities, and family-friendly fun. https://visitowa.com/

Every Monday

Bond with Baby - Gentle Beginnings

12:30 PM - 2:00 PM, Gulf Coast Lactation, 25421 AL 181 Daphne, AL, 36526 A free support group for moms with babies 0–3 months. Connect with other new moms, share experiences, and learn helpful tips to navigate the early days of motherhood with confidence and support.

Lego Free Build

3:30 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Every Monday 3:30 - 5 pm, patrons are invited to the Spanish Fort Public Library to exercise their creativity and practice their engineering skills by constructing their very own LEGO® creation.

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Tween Book Club

4:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Mondays in June and July

Movie Mondays

2:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Movie Mondays www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Movie Mondays

6:30 PM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Bring your crew to Portside on Main for Movie Monday presented by Liquid Life, a free outdoor screening series that’s serving up sunshine, cinema, and summer fun all season long. 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. 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. www.cityofbayminetteal.gov/departments/library

Little Explorers Sensory Play & Learn

10:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Come explore sensory play through a new program for preschoolers. Best for ages 3 and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For questions please email librarian@spanishfortal.gov. Space is limited. Each individual child must be registered to participate. 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Milky Way Cafe

10:00 AM Gulf Coast Lactation, 25421 AL 181 Daphne, AL, 36526 Join our breastfeeding support

group led by Scotty Thomson, IBCLC. It’s a welcoming space to get your breastfeeding questions answered, check your baby’s weight, and connect with other breastfeeding moms in a supportive, judgment-free environment.

Toddler Storytime

10:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 OWA Theater Presents An Evening with Shawn Mullins-Songs, Stories and Lullabies 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/

Every Tuesday in June

Summer Reading - Tweens (Rising Grades 3-5) (Free) 2:00 PM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Summer Reading - Tweens (Rising Grades 3-5) 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Tuesdays in June and July

Sunset Sounds at Portside

5:30 PM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Enjoy an evening of great tunes featuring face painting, the Reptile Bus, Cornhole boards, giant Jenga + so much more. Kids’ Activities: 5:30-8:30pm, Music: 5:30-8:30pm, SPECTRA Laser Light Experience: 8:30, 9 + 9:30 pm 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Every Tuesday June 2-July 21

CrafterNoons

2:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 CrafternoonsTuesdays at 2:00 All ages. 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Every Wednesday

Storytime - Page & 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

Wednesdays in June and July

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. Adventure Quest: 6-9 pm, SPECTRA Laser Light Experience: 8:30, 9 + 9:30 pm 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Every Thursday

Baby Storytime

10:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 0-18 months. www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Story time -Pre-K (Free)

10:30 AM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Story time ages 2-5-10:30am 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Milky Way Cafe

12:30 PM - 2:00 PM, Gulf Coast Lactation, 25421 AL 181 Daphne, AL, 36526 Join our breastfeeding support group led by Scotty Thomson, IBCLC. It’s a welcoming space to get your breastfeeding questions answered, check your baby’s weight, and connect with other breastfeeding moms in a supportive, judgment-free environment.

Cartoonist Club

5:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Every Thursday 5pm-Ages 7+, Cartoonist Club 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Bond with Baby - Gentle Beginnings

5:30 PM - 7:00 PM, Gulf Coast Lactation, 25421 AL 181 Daphne, AL, 36526 A free support group for moms with babies 0–3 months. Connect with other new moms, share experiences, and learn helpful tips to navigate the early days of motherhood with confidence and support.

Every Thursday in June

Story time -Juniors (Rising Grades K5-2nd)

2:00 PM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Story time Juniors (Rising Grades K5-2nd) 251-620-2500 www.daphneal.com/178/Library

Thursdays in June and July

Beats and Bubbles

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

Thursdays June 4-July 23

S.T.E.A.M

2:00 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/

Thursday-Sunday thru June 21

Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival

5:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Join us for the 2026 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 over 40 towering, handcrafted light sculptures glow with vibrant colors, lighting the landscape with interactive artistry and imagination. https://bellingrath.org/

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

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

Erin Wheat

ESP: With five kids in such a wide range of ages, what has this current season of motherhood been teaching you the most?

EW: It’s ok to say no. For years, it was a land of “Yes! We can do that! We can audition for this or be in this activity!” I am learning that it’s ok not to do everything under the sun and just focus on our family.

ESP: Your family is deeply involved in community theatre, including your most recent performance in Anne of Green Gables at the Gulf Shores Little Theatre. What has that experience meant for your family?

EW: The kids have been involved in local theater for quite a while, I have always been the shuttle. Now that they are a little older, it was such a joy to share the experience of performing with them!

ESP: How do you balance a busy household full of extracurriculars like dance, band, sports, and tumbling while still staying connected as a family?

EW: Honestly, it is really hard. But it all goes back to making choices and saying no every once in a while. It seems like we do everything but trust me, I say no quite often.

ESP: As a part-time team member with the City of Orange Beach Expect Excellence Program, how has working in your community influenced the way you parent?

EW: Being an employee with Orange Beach has been such a gift for our family! When I first started, I homeschooled everyone and it was a wonderful enrichment opportunity for them. While I absolutely love homeschooling, the opportunities available at Gulf Shores City Schools are amazing. Attending Expect Excellence was what triggered the kids’ interest in attending school and I am so glad we made that choice!

ESP: What are some practical systems, routines, or habits that help keep your home running smoothly with such a full schedule?

EW: I still use an old school planner with colored pens for each kid and their activities. I try to plan ahead as much as possible, though sometimes surprises come up! But if I don’t physically write things down, I do not remember it!

ESP: What is one thing you’ve learned about raising kids in different stages at the same time—from first grade to high school?

EW: Change is the only thing that is constant. I used to think things had to be done certain ways but I quickly learned to be adaptable if I wanted to survive.

ESP: How do you intentionally create one-on-one time with each of your children?

EW: I put it in that calendar! I plan different things with each child that they enjoy. Whether it be a bike ride to the state park, fishing at the pier, concerts at the wharf, a girls day or a trip to five below just because, I want them to know how special they are to me.

ESP: In a life that’s constantly on the go, what helps you personally stay grounded and refreshed?

EW: I try to make some time for quiet, calm and Jesus. Sometimes it’s just sitting on my porch with my coffee and my Bible. Sometimes it’s walking my dog around Meyer Park while having quiet time in prayer. These little moments are so important!

ESP: What is one piece of advice you would give to a younger mom who feels overwhelmed by busy seasons?

EW: Try not to be so hard on yourself! You’re doing better than you think, we all are! I’m not perfect but I love my children and they know it.

ESP: What legacy or values are you most passionate about passing down to your children through the life you’re living now?

EW: I want them to never give up on anything and always strive to be better than they were yesterday. I want them to love Jesus and know He loves them. They are the reason God put me on this Earth!

Rapid Fire Questions:

1. Rehearsal nights or game nights? Game Nights

2. Backstage chaos or sideline cheering? Sideline Cheering

3. Car karaoke or quiet car rides? Car Karaoke

4. Dance recital or ball game? Both

5. Last-minute costume fix or last-minute snack run? Snack Run

Erin Wheat and her husband, Hugh, have been together since their days as high school sweethearts and are approaching 25 years of marriage. They enjoy simple date nights at home—grilling out and riding bikes together.

The couple has five children—Charlie (16), Hayes (14), Alvin (12), Bitty (10), and Davy (6)—and loves that their kids are close in age, even if it means juggling a full calendar of activities. When she finds a moment for herself, Erin enjoys art, jewelry making, and singing.

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