February 2023 Child Care Issue

How parents can listen and reassure their children during tough times.

Khari Jean Patterson (2), daughter of Kirsten Holliman and DeAnthony Patterson. Grandparents are Mario and Valarie Montgomery, and Tony and Thomacenia Patterson.

Khari Jean enjoys music of all genres, dancing, drawing and painting, reading time, counting with Sesame Street, being one with nature, cooking alongside her parents, and anything that sparks her creativity.

Special thanks to Jumpin’ Jellybeans for the photo venue.

You were most likely concerned if you ran into me at any time on January 9th. My eyes were puffy and bloodshot, and I am quite sure I had the look of a lost puppy on my face. You see, that was the day that two of my babies went back to college after the holiday break.

I am unsure why I reacted so dramatically this time but watching them pull out of our driveway crushed me. My emotions caught me off guard, as I was totally fine during the fall move-in. Why was this so different? Maybe it was because move-in was so stressful. We all ultimately got on each other’s nerves. I for sure know my daughter was ready for us to leave. This visit, however, was wonderful. We had such a fun time together, and I just didn’t want it to end. Of course, it probably didn’t help when we pulled out old photos the night before they left and shared stories of when they were toddlers.

Seeing my older kids spread their wings reminds me so much of how it felt to send them to daycare. In each instance, you are entrusting your kids will be safe, happy, and thrive in a new environment. I don’t know about you, but my search for childcare started almost immediately after finding out I was pregnant. I was worried there might be waiting lists and wanted to get a jump on things. Touring centers and asking questions was fun while walking around with her safe and sound in my belly. I was so comfortable and excited about the center we chose and could not wait to meet the other moms, make play dates on weekends, etc. However, all that changed once she arrived, and it was time for me to return to work. How would I leave this dear sweet gift with a total “stranger” all day? I quickly learned that the caregivers at the center were not there to replace me during the day, but to help me. After all, they had way more experience than I did. They taught me all kinds of tips and tricks and not only took care of my sweet girl, but helped me be a better mom.

The comfort of having excellent connections and complete confidence in your daycare provider is immeasurable. Finding the perfect spot for your family does take some research, visits, and questions. As you begin your search, I encourage you to flip to check out this month’s feature, How to Find a Safe, Quality Daycare by Kimberly Blaker. Once you put together a list of what you are looking for in a provider and are ready to start touring centers, this year’s Child Care Guide will come in handy. The directory includes a list of all the fulltime and part-time daycares, Mom’s Day Out programs, and preschools we could find in the area. As I say every year, childcare is not one-size-fits-all. Everyone needs and wants different things in a center, so do your research, take tours, and listen to your gut.

Whether you are watching your little birds spread their wings or just getting settled into the nest, it is important that we teach our kids age-appropriate independence. One area we can all work on no matter what age our children are, is modeling a healthy lifestyle. This month Cheryl Maguire has some helpful information for us in 7 Ways to Promote Your Child’s Healthy Lifestyle.

Speaking of healthy lifestyles, there is plenty to help foster healthy family time in the February Family Calendar. We are excited to share all the local activities, Mardi Gras festivities, charity cook-offs, local music/drama productions, and much more! I hope you find many fun things to fill your February calendar and heart with beautiful memories!

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

Charline Barger Kristi Bush, LSW Gabriele Jones

Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. Pam Molnar

Dave Ramsey

Robert L. Rux, M.D.

Cover Photography

Jenn Glies Photography www.jenngliesphotography.com

President Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com

Advertising Opportunities

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

Ad Design

Tim Welch

Web Content Manager Scott Davis Eastern Shore Parents magazine is published

by KeepSharing, LLC.

Box 374, Montrose, Alabama, 36559. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 929-2099.

lynn@easternshoreparents.com

prohibited. Opinions expressed

permission

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 Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

Helping Your Child Handle “Big Emotions”

How can I help my child and myself handle big emotions? The clinical term for “big emotions” is emotional dysregulation, which is the inability to control or regulate emotional responses.

The process of emotional regulation is complex and lifelong. Theoretically, we learn this skill first, the skill of relating to others second, and the ability to reason last. But, unfortunately, the skill of regulating is often not developed.

Think about the last time you lost your keys or cell phone. A family member asked, “Where did you have it last?” and you blew up. That person ap proached you with reason, but you responded without regulat ing your emotions. When dealing with difficult emotions, we must ensure regulation first, relation second, and reason third. Every time…In that order… Every time!

As we grow, emotional regulation skills develop through the rhythmic motion of play: running around the playground, swinging, kicking a ball back and forth, going across

monkey bars, bouncing, throwing, and dancing. This rhythmic cycle starts when parents begin pacing or rocking to calm their crying infant. However, parents must continue to teach and model rhythmic motion skills to teach their children emotional regulation. In my opinion, this is where toddlers’ use of handheld devices is most detrimental to development. If the child is given a phone to “help him calm down,” instead of being held and rocked or encouraged to engage in rhythmic motion, he is not learning how to naturally self-soothe. Instead, your child is learning to distract himself from difficult emotions. As parents, we all need to intentionally incorporate rhythmic movement into our daily lives: running, walking, dancing, etc. We need to say to children, “I am really angry about something that happened at work today, so I am going for a walk to help my brain and body calm down.” Parents must model that

they are not overwhelmed by their big emotions. As children grow older, they will imitate what we model.

We model the skills of relating by showing empathy. The best way to relate through empathy is by telling stories. In younger children, we talk about what just happened. For example, “You grabbed the cookie, and I would not let you have it, so you started to cry.” We relate to older children, teenagers, and adults by talking about a time we went through the same thing. Do not “one up” the other person just to say, “me too”. Remember, it is alright for them to feel big emotions! They will continue to experience them throughout their life. They just need to know that they are seen, heard, and understood.

We attempt to reason only after ensuring regulation and relation have successfully occurred. The step of reason usually occurs minutes, hours, or sometimes even days after the emotional dysregulation occurs. If we wait until our children can reason, their brains are optimized for the learning process.

Truthfully, the most common error I observe is that parents model emotional dysregulation. Therefore, your children’s ability to manage difficult emotions is directly related to YOUR ability to manage their uncomfortable feelings. Before reacting, make sure you are regulated, have spent some time compassionately relating to yourself or another person, and are fully able to reason.

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.

Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Pageantry Program

Registration is now open for the 2023 Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Pageantry Program through March 1st. This national program presented by The Maynard 4 Foundation is open to young ladies ages 13-18 is a 3-day educational program designed to build confidence that also consists of workshops ranging from public speaking, college and career exploration, financial literacy and much more! This program will be hosted at The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa from June 16-18, 2023! Paper registration form and info may be found at www.missjuneteenth.org. Online registration via Google Form at https://bit.ly/TM4F_2023MissJuneteenth. Pictured: 2022 Junior Miss Juneteenth, Clair Basey, and 2022 Teen Miss Juneteenth, Kendra Jordan.

USS ALABAMA Crewmate Program

Battleship Memorial Park is now accepting applications for the 2023-2024 USS ALABAMA Crew mate Program. Applications may be downloaded from our website at https://www.ussalabama.com/ get-involved/crewmates/ or picked up at Battleship Memorial Park’s Ticket Office, 2703 Battleship Parkway. The Ticket Office is open daily from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Deadline for application is Friday, February 17, 4 p.m. Open to young women ages 19 to 21. For more information, please call Lynne Price at 251-438-2834, or email lprice@ussalabama.com.

Thomas Hospital Auxiliary Seeks Junior Volunteers

The Thomas Hospital Auxiliary is seeking students to participate in their junior volunteer program this summer. This opportunity is offered to high school students between the ages 14 to 17 with at least a 3.0 grade point average. The goals of the program are to help students explore possible healthcare careers and provide service to the community. For more information, contact Melita Willkie at 279-5525 or melita.willkie@infirmaryhealth.org.

Baldwin Connect College and Career Expo

Baldwin County Chambers of Commerce will host the second annual Baldwin Connect College and Career Expo taking place on February 7 and 8 at the Baldwin County Coliseum. Hours are 9AM - 3PM and open to the public for any student or adult job seeker during. In addition to the actual event, we are excited to announce a county wide resume contest for high school seniors. Scholarship dollars will be awarded to the top resume from each school and then will be entered to win the top scholarship award at a luncheon in their honor on February 6, 2023. If your business is interested in participating, applications are available online at https://bit. ly/2023BaldwinConnectCareerExpo or you can contact your Baldwin County Chamber of Commerce.

Impact 100 Baldwin County Announces Membership Events

Impact 100 is recruiting women to join its organization for 2023 by holding gatherings the next few months throughout Baldwin County. The nonprofit is composed of women who believe in transforming lives in our communities by awarding high-impact grants to nonprofits in the areas of Arts, Culture & Recreation; Education; Environment & Preservation; Family; and Health and Wellness. Since its inception in 2008, Impact 100 has awarded over $5 million in grants to Baldwin County nonprofits. Membership is open to all women at least 18 years old who can make a $1,000 membership donation by March 31st . Every penny of the donation goes toward grant awards, and payment installments are an option. To join or RSVP for one of the events, visit the Impact 100 website, www.Impact100BaldwinCounty.org.

Toytopia Opening February 3, 2023

What was your childhood passion? Jump roping? Star Wars® collectibles? Baking in an Easy Bake Oven? Whatever was your favorite toy then and now, you’re sure to find it in the TOYTOPIA exhibit at the Exploreum, developed by Stage 9 Exhibits. Opening February 3, 2023 at and running daily throughout the normal exhibition hours of the science center, Toytopia is sure to rekindle the wonder and delight of your favorite childhood moments and where you can play all day in a world of big toys.

Toytopia is the one of the premier exhibits created by the Stage 9 Exhibits. Visit https://www.exploreum.com/.

“Spirits of the Passage” at GulfQuest

Beginning January 4, 2023, and in conjunction with the 160th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 Emancipation Proclamation, the National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico (GulfQuest) will be hosting one of the most powerful and important exhibitions it has ever displayed. “Spirits of the Passage: The Story of the Transatlantic Slave Trade” explores the strength of the human spirit through a display of nearly 150 historical objects spanning more than 350 years.

The 3,500 sq. ft. exhibition will be on display through June 21, 2023.

“Spirits of the Passage” is being brought to GulfQuest thanks to generous support from the Mobile County Commission. GulfQuest is open Wednesday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact GulfQuest at (251) 436-8901 or visit www.gulfquestmuseum.com. Advanced tickets can be purchased at www.gulfquestmuseum.com/visit/online-tickets.

Project Prom

Looking for the perfect prom dress? Want to have a fun morning out with your friends or maybe a glam morning with Mom? The Junior Auxiliary of the Eastern Shore invites everyone to come play dress up with us at Project Prom! Have a ball trying on dresses, shoes, purses and even accessories. The best part is, if you find something you love, you can take it home with you at no cost! Project Prom will be held March 4, 2023 from 10:00am - 4:00pm at Fairhope High School. This event is open to ALL local high schools! We will have thousands of dresses and accessories with sizes ranging from 00 – 24. All FREE! To check out some of the fun fashions check out their Insta-ProjectPromJAEasternShore.

Donations can be dropped off at Thompson Animal Hospital off 181 in Fairhope or Castle Technology Partners (off Pollard Road) in Daphne. Donations accepted through February 24. For more information follow Junior Auxilliary of the Eastern Shore on Facebook.

13th Annual Mobile Chocolate Festival

The Mobile Chocolate Festival, a celebration of all things chocolate, will be held at The Grounds on Saturday March 18, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., with all proceeds to benefit Penelope House.

As we celebrate the 13th Anniversary of such a wonderfully chocolate event, there will be vendors offering samples of their chocolate-related products as well as selling their products. Vendors vary from having chocolate-themed wares to succulent confections to jewelry to bath and body products. Admission is free for children 13 & under; General admission $3.00 in advance- available at Penelope’s Closet, $5.00 day of the event. Call for more details (251-342-2809), like Mobile Chocolate Festival on Facebook, and/or visit www.mobilechocolatefestival.com.

Mobile Ballet Presents Swan Lake and the Swan Soirée

Mobile Ballet will present Swan Lake on March 25-26 at the Mobile Civic Center Theater, the final production closing out our 35th Anniversary season. Performances will take place Saturday, March 25, at 7:30pm, and Sunday, March 26, at 2:30pm.

A magical spell that can only be broken by true love... Mobile Ballet brings to the stage a new production of one of the most popular classical ballets of all time, Swan Lake. Audiences will be captivated by the romance and drama, the battle between good and evil, and the transformative power of love. This iconic ballet is a must-see whether you are an aficionado or a newcomer to ballet. Tchaikovsky’s stunning score is brought to life under the direction of conductor David Ott, with a live orchestra accompanying the Saturday evening performance. This new Mobile Ballet production features Houston Ballet principal dancers Yuriko Kajiya and Connor Walsh and additional guest artists performing with the Mobile Ballet Company, with choreography by Katia Garza and Israel Rodriguez after Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov.

Mobile Ballet will also present the Swan Soiree on Sunday, March 5th from 2pm – 4pm , at The Venue in Fairhope.. This fun Sunday afternoon tea will include a short performance by Mobile Ballet dancers, story time, silent auction, photo opps & more! Tickets are $25. All ages (3+). Presented by the Mobile Ballet Barre volunteer association, this special event raises funds for the Relevé Project, Mobile Ballet’s tuition assistance program established to help reduce the financial burdens that prevent children from accessing dance training. Supporters who may be unable to attend the event are still encouraged to make a donation to the Relevé Project at www.mobileballet. org. With your donation, you are lifting up a young dancer and directly making a difference in his or her life, as well as nurturing the vibrant arts culture in our community!

To purchase tickets, make a donation, or get information, visit www.mobileballet.org or call 251-342-2241.

19TH Annual Many More Miles Shoe Drive

Local school-age kids, runners and exercise enthusiasts may have put a lot of miles on old running shoes and shoes for all purposes, but when they are donated to the “Many More Miles” campaign, those gently used shoes will come to life again as they land on the feet of someone who really needs them.

For the 19th year, Baldwin Bone & Joint, P.C. will host this important community outreach project, and, for the second consecutive year, the local orthopaedic practice will partner with Baldwin County Public Schools and City Hope Church. Since its inception, response to the campaign has grown from 200 pairs donated in 2004 to a record-breaking 2,728 pairs contributed most recently. Shoe donations for 2023 will be accepted starting January 9, with final shoe drop-offs received at the 2023 Azalea Trail Run on Saturday, March 25, in Mobile. Baldwin County students will once again be rewarded for collecting the highest number of shoes with money for their schools’ new P.E. equipment. Baldwin Bone & Joint will award cash prizes to P.E. programs to the top three Baldwin County Public Schools who donate the most shoes. In addition, the class that brings in the most shoes overall will receive a Chick-fil-a party and the teacher will be awarded a cash prize provided by City Hope Church. For more information, call 251.656.3843 or visit baldwinboneandjoint.com.

22nd Annual Chili for Charity

This year’s cook-off will again be held at the Halstead Amphitheater in Downtown Fairhope on Saturday, February 25, 2023 from 11:30am2:00pm. Besides being able to sample some of the best chili that Baldwin County has to offer, music lovers can enjoy pleasing tunes by local favorite, Blind Dog Mike and the Howlers. Add a bake sale with out-of–this-world homemade baked goods, along with hot dogs and sodas, games for the kids, balloon artistry by Dr. Gee, animal ambassadors from Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, and a mechanical bull ride for all ages. Tickets are available in advance online at eventbrite.com. or at the gate. Visit our website, www.baldwinemi.org.

Children’s of Alabama Celebrates the 18th Annual “Tee Off Around the World”

Children’s of Alabama celebrates Tee Off Fore A Cure on March 3 and 4, with a weekend of internationally-themed events designed to celebrate the 18th year of the fundraiser and honor Fairhope cancer survivor Frances Grace Hirs. This year’s

register for the golf tournament contact Kerrie Benson, Children’s Gulf Coast coordinator, at 251-610-4969, or visit give.childrensal.org/teeoff.

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

It’s Mardi Gras Time!

Yelling for moon pies, wrestling over beads, dancing with the marching bands, and running to catch the parade multiple times a few blocks over are just a few of the most enduring memories of my childhood and Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras in Mobile and on the Eastern Shore has a storied tradition. Today we’ll talk about a brief history, some differences between Mobile and Eastern Shore parades, tips on catching the best, and easy safety plans for you and your family.

Mardi Gras started in Mobile (long before New Orleans) way back in 1703 as a festival called Boeuf Gras, which is French for Fatted Ox! However, the first inklings of the Mardi Gras as we know it today with official organizations had their first parade in 1840. Then, in 1866, Joseph Stillwell Cain donned full Chickasaw Indian regalia and paraded to boost the city’s morale during the Civil war. We honor him on the Sunday before Fat Tuesday with the infamous Joe Cain Day parade. Mardi Gras in Mobile has evolved over the years to include multiple societies, complete with

parades and formal balls before the Lenten season, which starts the next day on Ash Wednesday.

In addition to the Mobile scene, Mardi Gras has expanded to include all Mobile and Baldwin Counties. However, there are a few differences between Mobile and the surrounding areas. Mobile is much larger in terms of individual parades, float size, bands, and the number of throws you catch. But with this bounty comes bigger crowds and more traffic. The non-Mobile areas tend to feature smaller parades and floats, fewer bands, and potentially fewer throws but are much less crowded and family friendly. On the Eastern Shore, there are multiple parades in Fairhope, Daphne, Foley, and at the Gulf. Now, for those new to the area, there are some tricks to catching the good stuff. The most common throws are moon pies and beads, so let the riders know what you want. As a rider and a pediatrician, I have a sympathetic eye for kids- so hold them up, and you will be rewarded. If you know a

rider in a specific parade, make a sign and make it big. It’s almost impossible to pick out individuals in a crowd of jumping and cheering people. And if you see someone with a poster, get near them; you will catch a lot of misfired throws. Last but not least, we riders like a challenge, so anyone with a funny poster or on a balcony will get pelted. Mardi Gras can best be enjoyed if you follow some simple rules. First of all, the parades on the Eastern Shore have few, if any, barricades. Therefore children can jump out in front of vehicles and floats eas ily. Often good throws will get stuck in the middle of the road, but please wait until the parade is over to collect the goodies. And have a safety plan in case anyone gets lost. Usually, meeting at the car or on a particular corner are good plans. So, please enjoy Mardi Gras, but be safe.

Robert L. Rux, M.D. is a Board Certified Pediatrician at Magnolia Springs Pediatrics. Originally from Mobile, he attended medical school at The University of Alabama School of Medicine (UAB) and completed residency at The Children’s Hospital of Alabama (UAB).

SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT

At Glass Orthodontics, you’re more than just another faceyou’re a unique person and our team values that. With one dedicated doctor and a hands-on team, everyone will know your name! Consultations are always complimentary and we offer flexible appointments and interest free payment plans. With four locations to serve you, there is always something to

Sponsored by:

Cindy Hixson-Robles

Bayside Academy

“I like to give my students daily hands-on, sensory-rich experiences that give space to curiosity and wonder,” explains Cindy HixsonRobles, our Eastern Shore Parents Teacher of the Month. “I like children to do most of the talking in class. The peers of children are powerful teachers as well.”

Cindy is currently a STEAM Teacher at Bayside Academy in Daphne, AL. She has been teaching there exclusively for 23 years. Currently, she supports each of the six classroom teachers’ student-led investigations for PK-3, PK-4 and Kindergarten. In addition, she works alongside the teachers and students in researching topics of interest to the students.

Cindy believes children are natural-born artists and scientists. Daily, she is passionate about cultivating environments for her students to develop their own thoughts and reasons for how and why we do things.

“We have a mud kitchen where children play with dirt, real metal pots and pans, and cooking utensils. These experiences are essential elements for brain development, language, social development, and motor skills,” Cindy said. Another environment includes students playing with items like beads, feathers, shells, etc. She went on to share that since these ‘loose parts’ have no assigned purpose, they simply

allow the children to make them into anything, allowing creativity to be cultivated.

Cindy has adopted and indeed implemented a child-led teaching method, called Reggio Emilia. She was initially introduced to and encouraged to consider this teaching method by one of the principals at Bayside Academy.

“The Reggio philosophy aligned with my core principles in education, and changed my entire professional life,” shared Cindy. “It is the gold standard in early childhood education. Reggio is student-centered, not teacher-centered in the traditional sense. It allows teachers to create learning experiences to support student thinking and the process of constructing knowledge.”

Cindy shared that her students have taught her everything of value in the world - love, compassion, patience, curiosity, and respect for one another. She hopes to leave her students with a few things beyond subject matter - like curiosity, creativity, and a passion for understanding the world.

“Children are brilliant in assimilating new experiences and constructing knowledge,” said Cindy. “Children are perfectly formed, and I am honored that I can be a part of unfolding the world around them.”

Cindy Hixson-Robles is married and has two children. She enjoys reading, opera, gardening and spending time with family.

Autauga County Schools

Robertsdale Elementary STEAM Squad

Congratulations to the Robertsdalen Elementary School 6th grade STEAM Squad. These students will assist classroom teachers with various technology and robotics.

Volleyball Superbowl at Bay Minette Elementary

Students at Bay Minette Elementary School competed in a Volleyball Superbowl. The competition featured students in fourth, fifth and sixth grades. Coaches have been working with students this quarter on the fundamentals of the game during their Physical Education classes.

Foley Middle Peer Helpers Create Gratitude Graffiti Boards

Foley Middle School Peer Helpers enjoyed creating a Gratitude Graffiti bulletin board last quarter. They took a survey of everyone on campus to see what they were grateful for and added their thoughts to the board.

Fairhope West Virtual Everglades Field Trip

Off to the Everglades National Park for third grade students in Mrs. Arnold and Mrs. Cork’s classes at Fairhope West Elementary. Students participated in a virtual field trip where they were able to interact with park rangers while learning about animals habitats and adaptations.

Dual Enrollment at Renaissance Renaissance School students prepare for another semester of Dual Enrollment courses at Coastal Alabama Community College.

Gulf Shores Middle Winners of the Lions Club Peace Poster Contest

Congratulations to the Gulf Shores Middle School winners of the Lions Club Peace Poster

Daphne Elementary School Welcomes Special Visitor

Trent Battle, son of DES principal Mrs. Benita Battle, visited Daphne Elementary School after returning from the TCU vs. Georgia Championship Game in Los Angeles, California. Students in Mrs. Riel’s class snapped a quick photo with him during his visit. Students are so proud that Trent exhibits Leader in Me Habit “Begin with the End in Mind” as a former DES student/athlete and now on his college football journey at Texas Christian University! Once a Trojan, Always a Trojan! Go TCU Horned Frogs!

Florence B Mathis Students Learn About Fossils

Mrs. Amerson’s 3rd graders are learning about fossils in Science. Today, they used dinosaur figurines and modeling clay to create their own fossils!

Nelson

Autauga County Schools

Daphne East 2nd Quarter Crown of Character

Congratulations to Daphne East Elementary School 2nd quarter Crown of Character recipients!

Mrs. Wallace: Nicholas

Mrs. Waddle: Nevaeh

Mrs. Gamble: Ella

Central

Baldwin Band

Participate in the

Baldwin County All-County Middle School Honor Band

Congratulations to all of the Central Baldwin Middle School Band students who participated in the Baldwin County All-County Middle School Honor Band this year! They put on a wonderful performance last night!

the Golden Apple Award

Alabama Top 20

Congratulations to BCS senior Ashlyn Whiteside for making the Coastal Alabama top 20 volleyball team. We are so proud of you!

Congratulations are in order to CTKCS teacher Miss Brianna Buttarrazi! She was awarded the Golden Apple Award by WKRG’s own Bill Riales. Miss Buttarrazi is not only a teacher at CTKCS, but an alumni as well. “ My teachers at CTK had a huge influence on my career as a teacher. I love experiencing my students make the same kind of memories right here in 2nd grade where it all began for me. Sometimes life really does make a full circle. “- Miss Bri Buttarrazi

Autauga County Schools

Science Lab DNA Extraction at Christ the King Catholic

The 7th graders at CTKCS spent a day in the lab extracting DNA from strawberries! They used everyday chemicals to break open strawberry cells to get to the DNA . This lab coincided with the student’s unit on DNA. Great job putting your learning into action 7th grade!

Mardi Gras and Math Concepts at Fairhope East Elementary

Throw me something, mister!!! Fairhope East Elementary students in Ms. Luckie’s room are gearing up for Mardi Gras! Her students use donated beads to incorporate math concepts. They sort, count, add, subtract, and measure!

Mrs. Luckie’s students then regroup the beads and sell them as a classroom fundraiser!

Central Baldwin Middle Spelling Bee Winners

Congratulations to our CBMS Spelling Bee Winner, Keiran Haas, and to our runner-up, Jack Courson. Congratulations!

Create Floor Plans

Mrs. Jablonski’s Algebra with Finance students at Daphne High School created residential floor plans as part of their Independent Living unit. They had to meet a certain set of criteria, such as area restrictions. The students could illustrate their floorplans on graph paper or use a computer program to create the plans.

St. Michael Catholic Red Ribbon Leader

Congratulations to St. Michael Catholic High , who was chosen as our Red Ribbon

outstanding from Mobile and Baldwin

who represent the 6 pillars of character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.

Robertsdale High Holds Elective Fair

2023 Elective Fair in the books! Students had an opportunity to learn more about the elective classes offered for next year.

Autauga County Schools

Timmy and Susana Abell Visit Bayside Academy

Timmy Abell, a nationally recognized recording artist and songwriter, and his wife, Susana, performed for Bayside Academy students of all ages during their annual trip to the school. The interactive show, filled with folk music, is a treat for everyone – from the seniors to the PK3 students. We look forward to his visit every year!

Pictured: Susana and Timmy Abell with Bayside students Pablo (4th grade), Marco (1st grade), and Neo (PK4) Giraldo Sanchez

Bay Minette Schooler Attends US Navy Sea Cadet Training

Brycen Williams is an 8th grader at BMMS, he attended United States Navy Sea Cadet training in Starke Florida. He has been a Sea Cadet for 1.5 years, going to drill once a month at the Coast Guard base in Mobile, AL with The Dunlap Division here in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Brycen finished his training at graduation on Tuesday, January 3rd and hopefully will attend Washington in the summer for aviation (flight school). He hopes to be a fighter pilot in the years to come.

Foley High Receives Donation for ACT Prep

Thanks to the generosity of State of Alabama Representative Frances Holk-Jones, juniors at Foley High School will be able to take the ACT Prep classes and the ACT test in the spring. Over 140 students will be able to participate in a special intensive ACT Prep program to begin in January 2023. Participants will learn how to take the ACT, what to expect, have the opportunity to take a practice test, then in the spring they will be able to take the ACT. This program in conjunction with the City of Foley will give students to opportunities to take the ACT to improve their scores to know what they will be facing with taking the test and to get the optimum result.

The $7,000 donation provided by Representative Holk-Jones allows the students participating in the program to be able to take the test and not worry about the financial commitment that would have been incurred. Pictured are Representative Holk Jones and Foley High principal Jessica Webb.

Elsanor Elementary Book Vending Machine Arrives

Exciting things are happening at Elsanor Elementary! The book vending machine has arrived! We are waiting on our books to fill the machine so students can earn tokens and choose books to keep! This purchase was made possible through our 3 Mil Tax money!

Autauga County Schools

Daphne Elementary Honors Day Parade

Daphne Elementary School celebrates student achievement with a quarterly Honors Day Parade. Students that achieve honor roll status for second quarter wear ribbons and are celebrated in a parade that circles through the carline. Students that receive

Baldwin County High Student Awarded

Haley Wicker is soaring to new heights at Baldwin County High School and Haley serves as the Corp Commander school’s Air Force JROTC, the top cadet position. This week she

AFJRTOC J-100 Scholarship which is a full-tuition, four-year scholarship to the school of her choice (Auburn University). This will also cover full room and board and include a monthly stipend. Haley has certainly earned that accomplishment through her hard work in the classroom, the Corp and her community. She has the highest fitness score in the Corps, earning a possible 93 out of 100, for which she earned a Silver Star for Fitness ribbon. During the summer of 2022, Haley took part in the Flight Academy which was a first for a female cadet at BCHS. Haley also works hard in the Girl Scouts and

Spanish Fort High National Art Honor Society Volunteers at the Spanish Fort Library

Spanish Fort High School National Art Honor Society students had the best time volunteering at the Spanish Fort Public Library yesterday! They worked on a collaborative coloring sheet mural honoring Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr. with children from our community. After they finished that project, they then created mixed media artworks with words such as ”peace,” “kindness,” “equality,” “leadership,” and “respect.”

faculty members as the “Teacher of the Quarter” and awarded with a sash and gift basket during the parade. This month’s teacher is third grade teacher, Mrs. Brittany Stefano. CNP Manager, Mrs. Daphaine

Library Star Awards at Silverhill Elementary

Congratulations to the following classes at Silverhill Elementaryfor receiving the Library Star Award for 1st & 2nd Quarter! These three classes earned the most points for being leaders in the library! Mrs. Weaver’s 1st Grade Class, Mrs. McDoniell’s 4th Grade Class, and Ms. Farrier’s 5th Grade Class.

Stonebridge Elementary Students Study Ratios

Stonebridge Elementary Sixth grade started learning about ratios by completing a Fruit Loop Lab to determine how the numbers of each color compare!

Autauga County Schools

Bayside Academy Places Second in the AISA District Math Competition

Bayside Academy‘s middle school and upper school math teams finished runner-up at the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) District Math Competition on January 10, 2023. Middle school mathletes include eighth graders Tbug Baker, Amelia Hicks, Anna Flynn Hughes, Ethan Kok, and Farrah Lane and 7th grader Huan Chen, who was the highest individual scorer. Upper school mathletes include seniors Hunter Hyderally, Ryan McCullough, Beverley Milteer, and John Thomas Neill and juniors Michael Klimjack and Georgia McInnis. Ryan McCullough was the highest individual scorer. Both Huan Chen and Ryan McCullough will represent Bayside Academy at the AISA State Math

Competition in Montgomery on February 1. Team sponsors are atthew Lipham and Joe Swagart.

Picture 1: Bayside Academy’s upper school math team: Georgia McInnis, JT Neill, Beverley Milteer, Sponsor Joe Swagart, Hunter Hyderally, Ryan McCullough, and Michael Klimjack.

Picture 2: Bayside Academy’s middle school math team: Ethan Kok, Anna Flynn Huhges, Amelia Hicks, Sponsor Matthew Lipham, Tbug Baker, Farrah Lane, and Huan Chen.

Crawfish for the Classroom

Announcing SEEDS Inaugural Crawfish for the Classroom Event presented by 68 Ventures on Saturday March 11, 2023 from 4-7pm on the grounds of Daphne’s City Hall. Event festivities include Crawfish from MudBug Mafia, live music from Anthony Crawford of Sugarcane Jane, featuring Pete Nice, children’s activities and local brews from Fairhope Brewing Company! Ticket includes crawfish, hot dog & chips, and dessert. Separate beer tickets will be sold for 3 for $10 or 1 for $5 with a valid I.D. Tickets : Adult $25 presale or $35 at the door, Kids 6-12 $5, Teachers $10,Kids 5

W. J. Carroll Intermediate Spelling Bee

A shout out to all of our spelling bee representatives. They did a great job representing their classrooms at the school level bee. Congratulations to our school level winner, Aubrey Carlson from Mrs. Johnson’s 4th grade classroom, as well as Oce Khalaf and Jackson McGivney, our two runner ups.

Robertsdale High Marketing Team Visits

Grand Hotel and Spa

Fairhope High Designated as a Project ADAM School

Students took part in a special celebration at Fairhope High. The school was designated a Project ADAM school by The University of South Alabama. The designation was made from their dedication in preparing students and staff in what to do if a cardiac arrest takes place.

Bayside Academy Students to Perform The Witch’s Princess

Rehearsals are underway for the Bayside Academy Middle School Drama Department’s spring play, The Witch’s Princess. Performances will be in The Pilot Center Theatre on Bayside’s campus at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 16–Saturday, March 18 and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 19. Visit www.baysideacademy.org/ performing-arts to purchase tickets.

Autauga County Schools

Renaissance Student’s Team Wins Excellence in Dance at Jr. Theatre Festival

Bravo to Renaissance School student Anna Catherine Thompson! She attended the Junior Theatre Festival in Atlanta this January and along with her team won Excellence in Dance. Congratulations to Anna Catherine and The PACT!

Foley Elementary 2nd grade Creates Scultputures

Foley Elementary 2nd grade had so much fun in art class lol learning about movement, and creating their own little movement sculptures.

Bay Minette Middle Teacher of the Year

Bay Minette Middle School has named Jennifer Jones as its Teacher of the Year for 2022-2023. Jones teaches eighth grade physical science and serves as co-sponsor of the Beta Club. This marks her 15th year as a middle school science teacher – all at BMMS. The Baldwin County High School alumni graduated from the University of Mobile. She is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree from the University of West Alabama, with plans of graduating this summer. In 2016, she completed professional development to become an eMints trained teacher and is she is currently working toward becoming a National Board Certified teacher. BMMS Principal Lisa Creps, right, presented the

Bayside Academy’s Spelling Bee Winner

Fourteen spellers from Grades 4–8 competed in the Bayside Academy Spelling Bee on Monday, January

9. After 14 rounds, 7th grader

Wesley Wells was declared the winner and 7th

grader Caroline Ernest named the runnerup, with 4th grader Jeremy Ou rounding out the top three. The championship word was provocation. Wesley will represent Bayside Academy in the Baldwin County Spelling Bee in Loxley.

Bayside Academy Spelling Bee Participants

4th Grade

Vivian Lokar

Jeremy Ou

Phoenix Vivier

5th Grade

Laura Jackson

Mary Kathryn Jacobs

Ward McCrory

6th Grade

Jake Jacobs

Annabel Kimbrell

Owen Swagart

7th Grade

Caroline Ernest

Audrey Haines

Anna Heiser

Wesley Wells

8th Grade

Pine Grove Elementary

Spelling Bee Winner

Jolysia Byrd was the big winner at Pine Grove Elementary School Spelling Bee. The competition included 15 students from third through sixth grades. After several rounds, the competition narrowed down to Jolysia and Hazel Peacock, who finished as the Spelling Bee runner-up. Jolysia will now represent Pine Grove Elementary at the county-wide competition.

River Hannaman

Pictured: Bayside Academy Spelling Bee runner-up Caroline Ernest with winner Wesley Wells.

It “Snowed” at Florence B Mathis Elementary

It might be sunny outside, but Miss Sumner’s class has had a snow day. They have been learning all about snow, so it was time to make their our own. They measured and mixed to make pretend snow and spent time making snowballs and snowmen. Then they ended the day with a snowball fight. Now they are snow experts!

The Bayshore Equestrian Club Enjoys Time Together

BCS Equestrian Club enjoyed a day filled with riding lessons and helping tend to all of the horses.

Autauga County Schools

Students at Stonebridge Elementary Study the Water and Land

4th Grade students at Stonebridge Elementary built stream tables that will be used all quarter to investigate and understand the interaction of land and water. Students also modeled the water cycle in their stream tables.

Foley Elementary Learn How to Harness Wind Power

4th Graders in Mrs. Dees’ class at Foley Elementary learned how to harness the power of the wind on this blustery day.

Second grade teachers kicked-off the 2023 Wax Museum by dressing up as famous people and reciting facts about them. Students have been researching biographies and will now choose their own famous people for the February 10th Wax Museum.

Renaissance School Families Give Back at Christmas

Renaissance School families give back to the community!

During Christmas Break Renaissance School families assisted at Prodisee Pantry.

Bay Minette Elementary Kindergarten Work on Teamwork and Other Skills

Bay Minette Elementary Kindergarten students practiced problem solving and fine motor skills during their library time by putting puzzles together. They demonstrated teamwork and were excited to see their completed puzzles!

Fairhope Middle Outstanding Students for First Semester

Congratulations to FMS Outstanding Students for First Semester 2022/2023!

7th Grade Girls - Aena Ganey, Annabella Murray, and Bella Bruijin. 7th Grade BoysTrotter Creel and Aidan Sondag. 8th Grade Girls - Yen Tran and Abby Butler

Baldwin County Wrestlers Win Top Spots at Bulldog Brawl

Baldwin County High School Wrestling had three first place wins at the Bulldog Brawl held at Vancleave High School in Mississippi. Alexis Brown won in the 185 in the 235 and in the 138 division. BCHS wrestlers swept all four top spots in the 235 girls division. Joining Reed on the podium , second; Jessinia

Ameria Brooks, fourth. In Zeteria Baker (112), Alia Vickery (152) won second place in their divisions.

Cameron Benetiz (160) finished in third place. Coach Hunter Bates said the team is young and focused on learning and improving. “BCHS Tigers Wrestling has a lot of new wrestlers and they are trying their best on the mat and that is all Coach Shaun (Livermore) and I could ever ask. Every wrestler on our team is improving every match because they want to make it to sectionals,” he said. The team

is not focused on winning and losing, Bates said, “because we believe in winning and learning. The only time you lose is whenever you do not want to improve yourself as a wrestler and person.”

– Pictured here: BCHS wrestlers swept all four top spots in the 235 girls division. Joining Tamara Reed on the podium included Meagan Portis, second; Jessinia Jones, third; and Ameria Brooks, fourth.

Autauga County Schools

Fairhope High Event Planning Class Creates Vision Boards

Fairhope High School students were busy today in Mrs. Orfanello’s Event Planning class creating vision boards on their future goals! And in Life Connections, students learned various

Spanish Fort Elementary Learn About The Caldecott Medal

Don’t judge a book by its cover...judge it by its illustrations! Third graders at Spanish Fort Elementary acted as [mock] judges of Caldecott Medal contenders. The actual Caldecott Medal committee will announce the winner at the end of the month. The Caldecott Medal is awarded each January to an outstanding picture book published in the previous year.

Bayshore Benefit

Bayshore Christian School announces the 15th Annual Bayshore Benefit is to be held March 17th, 2023. To sponsor or for more information, visit Bayshorechristian.org.

Stapleton School Practices

Spanish Fort Middle Students Enhance Science Skills

Spanish Fort Middle School students in Coach Daniels and Mrs. Josie Webb’s 8th Grade Science classes explored matter to introduce them to get them excited about their learning this semester. Students were very engaged and intrigued!

Seniors Learn Life Skills at

Elberta High

Elberta High School Seniors

Baldwin County Virtual Elementary/ Middle Spelling Bee Winners

Baldwin County Virtual Elementary/ Middle School spellers all did an amazing job showcasing their word knowledge in the spelling bee! Congratulations to our first-place winner, and our runner-up Matilda Cagle!

Foley Middle Science Labs Study Matter

States of matter labs are the best! Students in Mrs. Stewart’s classroom and Mrs. Baker’s classroom at Foley Middle School completed labs this week related to the states of matter. In Mrs. Stewart’s class, students examined the properties of different solids and liquids. In Mrs. Baker’s class, students explored phase changes and recorded data to support phase changes at specific temperatures.

Autauga County Schools

at the Ingalls Stem

Fairhope Middle First Priority Raises Funds for Cancer

Fairhope Middle First Priority raised $654 for the organization Kids Join The Fight. Kids join The fight is an organization that raises money to fight pediatric cancer.

Robertsdale Elementary Learn About Block Coding

Students in 4th- 6th grades at Robertsdale Elementary learned about block coding using the Sphero Bolts and Sphero RVRs in the STEAM Lab. Thank you Central Baldwin Public Schools

Autauga County Schools

Spanish Fort High Student Named UTV 44 Athlete of the Year

Workout Wednesdays at J. Larry Newton

It’s Workout Wednesday at J. Larry Newton School. Our school staff is using January to focus on health and wellness with a friendly team step competition and after school workouts. What a great way to stay fit and fellowship too.

Daphne High Trojans Adulting

While the underclassmen were taking the Winter CERT test, Daphne High School Seniors were “adulting”!

Rotations Included:

Mechanic-How to change the Oil and a Ties with Mr. Ling Traffic Stops

FAFSA- Sponsored by Alabama Fast, is a comprehensive toolkit that includes materials that address many avenues of the FAFSA application process. From help determining if you should file for FAFSA to avoiding scams, this rotation has something for every student.

Senior Seminar- Graduation Checklist, Scholarships, and everything seniors need to know before graduation

Reality Check- Sponsored by Auburn Extension, Seniors were given a paycheck based on current careers. They traveled through life stations to see how far their paycheck would go. Life stations included: Buying or renting a home

Phone and utility plans

Vehicle purchase

Medical costs

Recreational activities and more...

They also had to place money in savings and in addition to the routine monthly responsibilities above. They faced unexpected medical bills and maintenance costs. At the end of the circuit they were met by a career counselor who talks with them about their career decision and the outcome of the Reality Check -whether they had money left or not.

This event helps students understand the importance of planning for a career early, budgets, and the cost of living.

Some of the students were blown away! This whole rotation was a great exercise

It’s essential to keep our kids as healthy as possible to prevent illness. Maintaining good overall health in children is important, so they grow and develop appropriately. A child’s health encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being. My grandfather used to

say, “if you have your health, you have everything.” If you and your child are healthy, you will have more energy, lower medical costs, and improved moods. Here are some ways to promote healthy habits within your child:

2,000 sq. ft. Space with Private Bathrooms

Create a Bedtime Routine and Regular Bedtime

Sleep helps the brain function properly, which improves learning. Studies show sleep deficiency increases the risk of obesity, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Receiving the proper amount of sleep promotes proper growth and development, improves social interactions, and increases immunity against diseases.

NIH recommends school-age children and teens should sleep for 9-10 hours per night. Bad sleep habits will affect both your physical and emotional health. One way to ensure your child receives enough sleep is to create a scheduled bedtime based on when they need to wake up in the morning. If you maintain the same bedtime every night, it will be easier to fall asleep and create a healthy habit.

Another way to help your child receive the proper amount of sleep is to have a bedtime routine beginning a half-hour before the expected sleep time. This routine will help your child relax, leading to falling asleep more easily. Some suggested bedtime routines are reading, a warm bath, drawing, listening to soothing music, or other calming activities.

Read Food Labels

According to the CDC, childhood obesity has more than tripled since 1970. Childhood obesity has short- and long-

term effects on a child’s physical, social, and emotional health. For this reason, a child needs to maintain a healthy weight.

Reading and understanding food labels is a way for a child to determine if food is healthy. The food label will demonstrate the number of calories, sugar, and fat content and also break down the recommended daily intake percentage to help create a balanced diet. It also helps to become more aware of what you are eating since you might think a food is healthy only to learn it isn’t after reading the food label.

Bathrooms

Exercise with Your Kids

The CDC recommends that children and teens be physically active for 60 minutes daily. Physical activity should include aerobic, muscle-strengthening, and bone-strengthening activities. If you exercise with your child and select something you both view as fun, you will be more likely to do it. Some suggested family activities are walking, running, hiking, dancing, biking, and a workout class or video. Create a weekly scheduled routine to incorporate the movement into your lives, which would create a healthy habit.

Limit Screen Time

Screen time consists of watching television, playing video games, or using electronic devices. When a child is in front of a screen, they are typically sedentary and not interacting with others. A research study at UCLA found that kids with too much

a child’s positive mental health. These skills will also enable a child to learn more effectively in the classroom.

Discuss Physical and Emotional Safety with Kids

According to the CDC, car accidents are one of the leading causes of death in children. One study found over 600,000 children did not use the proper car seat or seat belt, which could prevent death during an accident. Other accidental deaths include drowning, fire/burns, guns, poisoning, and suffocation. To prevent injuries and death, it is important to discuss safety issues regarding all of these potentially dangerous situations. Children and teenagers may be in situations where they are offered drugs or subjected to physical or sexual abuse. Discuss with your child healthy and appropriate relationships.

“My creation of KEYs Southern Spice ® seasoning was a result of pure luck and experimentation,” shares 16-year-old Kari Yarbrough from Fairhope, AL.

This young entrepreneur’s website describes KEYs Southern Spice ® seasoning as a fusion of the South’s greatest flavors and traits. Because of this, the seasoning can be found in several markets throughout the Southeast.

“When I was eight, I often played around in the kitchen. With my parents’ permission, I would literally throw together different ‘concoctions.’ One day, I experimented with spices,” said Kari. “After tweaking it a few times, I asked my parents to try it. To our surprise, it was really good! So good, in fact, we started cooking with it at home and then for others during cookouts. Through word of mouth, the requests for the seasoning grew quickly.”

In 2016, the family decided to start production on this ‘all Alabama’ product at a company located in Calera, AL.

“I should mention that my product is low in sodium, all-natural, has no preservatives or MSG, and is Gluten Free,” Kari shared. “KEYs Southern Spice ® is good on so many things: all proteins whether you grill, bake, fry or sauté. It is the perfect seasoning when roasting veggies. My favorite way to use it is by sprinkling a little on my bacon while cooking it. Bill-E’s Small Batch Bacon is the best!”

When Kari isn’t promoting her spice, she is just a typical junior in high school. She loves to hang out with friends, listen to music, hunt, and spend time with her furry family members.

“We all have hectic schedules so most of our quality time is spent in the kitchen and eating meals together,” said Kari of her mom Melissa, dad Chad and older sister, Samantha. “We all love exploring new recipes and sharing food pics on my

company’s social media pages. My dad is a pretty awesome grill master, too! We love music playing over the speakers while we have fun cooking and talking. Meals are truly a family affair for us.”

Business is also a family affair for Kari and the Yarbrough family. Her mom Melissa shares that while Kari is the ‘genius creator’ of the seasoning, every family member plays a part in the operation of KEYs Southern Spice ®.

“We believe her story as a young entrepreneur sets the example for other young children and teenagers to be creative and have fun,” said Melissa. She continued, “Dream BIG and Believe in Yourself!”

Kari loves making pasta dishes, and one of her favorite meals is a Cheese Tortellini with Chicken and Creamy Pesto. She originally made this dish for the first time for her grandmother’s birthday, and while the recipe is sim ple, it is packed with flavor, especially since it features her very own seasoning to spice it up!

You can learn more about Kari and KEYs Southern Spice ® by visiting http:// mykeysllc.com/.

Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Creamy Pesto

Ingredients:

• olive oil

• 1 pound chicken breast or tenderloins (cut in 1-in cubes)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 ½ cups milk

• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ¼ cup pesto

• ½ c parmesan cheese (freshly shredded)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 pound cheese tortellini

• Fresh basil for garnishing (optional)

• KEYs Southern Spice ® to taste (optional)

Directions:

• In a skillet with tall sides, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper and/or KEYs Southern Spice ®

• Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.

• Boil the tortellini according to package directions.

• In the same skillet that you cooked the chicken, add the butter and garlic. Reduce the heat to medium and cook until the butter is melted, then whisk in the flour and cook for one minute. Pour in the milk and whisk until thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Whisk in the cream cheese until smooth. Add the heavy cream, pesto and parmesan. Simmer until thickened, another 2-3 minutes.

• Add the cooked tortellini and chicken to the pesto cream sauce. Simmer until the chicken is warm, about 3-5 minutes.

• Serve with fresh basil and more pesto, if desired.

Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August.

Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.

Finding safe, suitable daycare is one of the more stressful undertakings parents of young children face. You have to contend with the logistics, such as the convenience of location and hours of operation, and of utmost concern is the safety and development of your child.

• Are all areas used by or accessible

• Are there safety plugs in all electrical

add yours as well. Childcare providers expect parents to have many questions, and a good provider will be happy to answer them.

• What is the maximum number of children in your care at any time?

• Do exterior doors have safety locks

• Is there a pool or hot tub in the area?

• Is there a fenced outdoor play area?

• Is the home or facility tidy aside from

• What are the age ranges of children in your care?

• What types of activities do you do with them?

• Are meals and snacks provided? If so, what do they consist of? Also, what time do the kids eat?

• Can I drop in unannounced?

• How do you handle discipline?

• Do you ever take children in the car? If so, are there enough child seats and seat belts for each child?

• Do cribs, playpens, and other baby

Does the daycare also meet the appropri-

• Does it smell clean? Or do you smell

• Are the children happy and content?

• How does the staff interact with the Take this list of questions with you and

• Are there other members living in your home or outside staff who will care for the children? If so, who are they and what are their ages?

• How are naps handled?

• What is the experience or education of the daycare provider and staff?

• What is your policy when a child is sick?

• Can I talk to the parents of other children in your care?

• Is video available so I can peek in at my child on my computer or phone?

Visit https://dhr.alabama.gov/child-care/ for more information.

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance family writer. She’s also founder and director of KB Creative Digital Services, specializing in search engine optimization and SEO content, at kbcreativedigital.com.

Baldwin County

Gulf Regional Early Childhood Services

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Ages: Infants - 3 years childcare@grecs.org www.grecs.org

Baldwin County Public School System PreK

Ages: 4 years old by September 1 www.bcbe.org/Page/9446

Bay Minette

First Baptist Church Child Development Center

1201 Hand Avenue, Bay Minette 36507

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks – PreK4, After-school program for elementary school aged children Cathy@fbcbm.com www.FBCBM.com

Kinder-Kastle

115 North Dobson Avenue, 36507

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 4 years www.facebook.com/KinderKastleLLC

Visions of North Baldwin Child Development Center

801 West 14th Street, 36507

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - School Age

Daphne Bayside Academy

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303 Dryer Avenue, Daphne 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 3:00pm

Ages: PK-3 - 12th grade admissions@baysideacademy.org www.baysideacademy.org

Resurrection Academy

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2401 Main Street, 36526

Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00am-5:30pm (Full Time), 9:00am-1:00pm (Part Time)

Ages: PreK2-PreK4 academy@resurrection.cc www.resurrectionacademy.cc

Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church Preschool

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28788 North Main Street, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm

Ages: 12 months – PreK4 stpaulspreschooldaphne@gmail.com www.stpaulseasternshore.com

3Circle Church Mom’s Day Out

10080 County Road 64, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 9am - 1pm Ages: K2 - K4 tephanie@3circlechurch.com 3circlechurch.com

Abiding Love Preschool & Childcare

1030 Stanton Road, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 6:00pm

Ages: 2 months - 5 years www.facebook.com/abidinglovepreschool

Ascension Christian School

8888 County Road 64, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 11:45pm; Extended Care 12pm-5:00pm Ages: PreK3 - PreK4 www.christian.school

AUC Resource Center

8355 Jonesboro Road, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 14 years www.africanuniversalchurch.org

Big Blue Marble Academy

29669 Renaissance Boulevard, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years www.bbmacademy.com/location/daphne/

Christ the King Catholic Preschool

708 Dryer Ave, 36526

Hours: PreK-3 Half Day- 7:45-11:45am. PreK-3 Full Day & PreK-4-7:45-2:45am Ages: Pre K-3/K-4 www.ctkcsdaphne.org/over-view

Coastal Kids Academy

11101 County Road 64, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:00pm

Ages: 18 months - K4

www.coastalchurch.tv/coastal-kids-academy-1

Color Us Kids Learning Center

26000 Nelson Street, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm

Ages: infants – PK www.coloruskidslearningcenter.com

Eastern Shore Montessori School

980 Main Street, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm

Ages: 18 months – 5 years

esmontessorischool@gmail.com

Eastern Shore Preschool

@ Eastern Shore Baptist Church

6847 Park Drive (Building C), 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 2:30pm, VPK 8:00am - 11:15am, Extended Care available

Ages: 6 weeks – 4 years

espreschool@myesbc.net www.myesbc.net

God’s Living Sea/Jubilee KidsJubilee Baptist Church

9264 Pleasant Road, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm (Extended hours 7:30am - 4:30pm)

Ages: 6 weeks - 4 years www.jubileebaptist.com

Hermes Enchanted Garden (RPC)

1005 Main Street Suite 200, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm

Ages: Infant - Pre-K www.facebook.com/hermesenchantedgarden

Kids Kabin Daycare

27730 Main Street , 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm

Ages: 10 weeks - 6 years

www.facebook.com/daycareKidsKabinDC

KinderKids Learning Center

10142 County Road 64, 36526

25270 County Road 54 West, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:45pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 4 years www.kinderkidslc.com

Little Crusaders Learning Center

9023 Lawson Road, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks – K4 www.littlecrusadersllc.com

Our Little Sprouts

28848 North Main Street, 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 6am - 6pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years olsdaycareprek@gmail.com

The Neighborhood School

26481 Kensington Place (Suite A), 36526

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 6:00pm

Infant - After School Program

tnsdaphne@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ TheNeighborhoodSchoolDaphne/

Tiny Tots Academy, LLC

25478 Friendship Road, 36526

Monday – Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm

Tinytots25478@gmail.com www.facebook.com/tinytotsacademyllc/

Weinacker’s Montessori School

28765 North Main Street , 36526

Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm www.weinackersmontessori.com

Elberta

Saint Benedict Catholic School

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12786 South Illinois Street, 36530

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:45am - 3:00pm

Ages: PreK3 - 8th Grade rkrehlingsbcs@gmail.com www.saintbenedict.net

Good Shepherd Lutheran School

13220 North Main Street, Elberta 36530

Hours: Monday - Friday School Hours

8:00am - 3:00pm, drop off and pick up 7:00am - 3:30pm, (Extended hours available until 5:30pm)

Ages: PreK3 - PreK4 goodshepherdlutheranschool.business.site

Fairhope

Bayshore Christian School

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316 Presbyterian Drive, Fairhope 36532

Hours: Half-day program 5 days a week for PreK Ages: K4 - 12th grade BCSadmin@bayshorechristian.org www.bayshorechristian.org

Fairhope-Point Clear Rotary

Youth Club Pre-K

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19128 Young Street, 36532

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 2:30pm

Ages: 4 years by September 1st tmiller@rotaryyouthclub.org www.rotaryyouthclub.org

Nature Connect

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Outdoor School in Fairhope, 36532

Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am - 3:00pm

Ages: 3 years - 5 years

Brittany@natureconnectalabama.org www.natureconnectalabama.org

Saint James Episcopal School

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860 North Section Street, 36532

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm (Full Day); 8:00am - 2:30pm (School Day)

Ages: 30 months - 3rd grade schooldirector@stjamesfairhope.org www.stjamesfairhope.school

Country Day School

23800 US Highway 98, 36532

Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am - 12pm and Wednesday 9am - 1pm

Ages: 18 months - Kindergarten countrydayfairhope@gmail.com www.countrydayfairhope.com

Eastern Shore Academy of Excellence

23946-B US Highway 98, 36532

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years jamie.snowden76@gmail.com www.facebook.com/EasternShoreAcademy

Eastern Shore Early Childhood Center

1090 Fairhope Avenue, 36532

Hours: Monday – Friday 6:30am – 5:30pm

Ages: 18 months - 12 years csaltz04@bellsouth.net

Eastern Shore Kids Kastle, Inc.

10291 B County Road 48, 36532

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 5:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years eskki@bellsouth.net

Fairhope UMC Preschool Ministry

155 South Section Street, 36532

Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 12:00pm

Ages: 2 years - PreK

terry.lowell@fairhopeumc.org www.fairhopeumc.org

Jubilee Head Start Center

24044 Highway 98, 36532

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 2:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years jubileeheadstart@grecs.org www.facebook.com/JubileeHSFairhope/

Jubilee Shores WeeSchool

17261 State Highway 181, 36532

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm

Ages: 10 months – 5 years weeschooloffice@gmail.com

www.jubileeshoresumc.org/wee-school

Marietta Johnson School of Organic Education

8 Marietta Drive, 36532

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 3:00pm

Ages: 4 years - 10 years marietta.school@mchsi.com

www.fairhopeorganicschool.org

STARS Early Learning Academy

8209 Gayfer Road Extension, 36532

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - Kindergarten

www.starsearlylearningacademy.com

The Learning Tree Preschool at First Fairhope

300 South Section Street, 36532

Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm, extended day 1:00pm-3:00pm

Ages: 6 months - 4 years

www.firstfairhope.org

Quality Care Close to Home Since 1985

Quality Care Close to Home Since 1985

Pediatric

Pediatric ENT Patients

Nasal & Endoscopic

Nasal & Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Allergy Testing & Treatment

Allergy Testing & Treatment

Ear & Mastoid

Thyroid & Salivary Gland

Ear & Mastoid Surgery

Thyroid & Salivary Gland Surgery

Airway & Voice Disorders

Cancer of

Airway & Voice Disorders

Cancer of the Head &

Foley

Cradle 2 Crayons, Inc.

507 West Rose Avenue, Foley 36535

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years

cradle2crayons@gulftel.com www.cradle2crayonsinc.net

Little Learners Kiddie School

708 West Laurel Avenue, 36535

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks – 4 years

Precious Moments Learning Center

1900 South Oak Street, 36535

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm

Ages: infants - 13 years

Snook Christian Academy

18930 County Road 28, 36535

Hours: Monday-Friday 7:45am - 3:00pm (before care 7:00am - 7:45am, after care 3:30pm5:30pm) Ages: Prek3 - 12th Grade sca@snookchristian.org www.snookchristian.org

The Stepping Stone Academy

230 West Laurel Avenue, 36535

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm

Ages: infant - 4 years foleyssa@gmail.com www.thesteppingstoneacademy.com

Heavenly Sent Learning Center, Inc.

12710 County Road 65, 36535

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years poohbear64@gulftel.com

Kid Plus Child Development Center

900 South Bay Street, 36535

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 11 years

kidpluscdc@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ kidplusfoley

Swift Church Preschool

23208 Swift Church Road, 36535

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - Pre-K4

swiftchurchpreschool@gmail.com www.swiftchurchpreschool.com/home

Gulf Shores

First Baptist Child Development Center

– Gulf Shores

2200 West 1st Street, Gulf Shores 36542

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks – PreK4 www.fbcgulf.com/children

Gulf Shores United Methodist Church Preschool and Mother’s Day Out

1900 Gulf Shores Parkway, 36542

Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 2:45pm

Ages: 12 months - 4 years lana@gulfshoresumc.org www.gulfshoresumc.org

Holy Spirit Episcopal Day School

616 West Fort Morgan Road, 36542

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 2:30pm, Ex-

tended hours 7:30am-4:30pm

Ages: 16 months - 4 years

www.hseds616.com

South Baldwin Christian Academy

6900 Highway 59, 36542

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:30pm

Ages: K3 - 12th Grade

admissions@southbaldwinca.org

www.southbaldwinca.org

Loxley

East Coast Migrant Head Start Program

16742 County Road 68, Loxley 36551

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 4:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks- 5 year

lconway@ecmhsp.org www.ecmhsp.org

Kidz Learning Center

1074 North Hickory Street, 36551

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks – 4 years

kidz@gulftel.com

Orange Beach

Bright Beginnings Preschool

Orange Beach UMC

28751 Canal Road, Orange Beach 36561

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:10am - 2:30pm (Extended care 2:30pm - 5:30pm)

Ages: 12 months - 4 years

brightbeginnings@orangebeachumc.org

www.orangebeachumc.org/brightbeginnings

Discovery Island Child Development

24843 Commercial Avenue, 36561

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years www.discoveryislandcdc.com

Robertsdale

Central Christian School ad on page 15

17395 Highway 104, Robertsdale 36567

Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00am-5:30pm

Ages: K3 - 12th grade www.ccssaints.com

Central Kids Daycare

17395 Highway 104, 36567

Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00am-5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 3 years

Children’s Learning Center

22305 Palmer Street, 36567

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks – 5 years

Little Anchors Preschool

18200 Hwy 104, 36567

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:15am - 2:30pm; Extended hours available Ages: 1 - 4 years littleanchorspreschoolfbc@gmail.com www.firstrobertsdale.com

Saint Patrick Catholic School 23070 Highway 59 North, 36567

Hours: Monday – Friday 7:45am - 3:00pm

Ages: PreK3 - 8th Grade school@stpatcatholic.com school.stpatcatholic.com

Spanish Fort

Faith Family Fellowship

Preschool

ad on page 7

7100 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort 36527

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am – 3:00pm (Extended hours 7:00am – 6:00pm)

Ages: 2 years - PreK4 www.faithfamilyonline.com

Spanish Fort Presbyterian Preschool

ad on page 26

6620 Spanish Fort Boulevard, 36527

Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm; Extended care 7:30am - 4:30pm

Ages: 2 Years- 4 Years sfppreschool@gmail.com www.spanishfortpresbyterian.com

Jubilee Early Child Development Center

8930 Spanish Fort Boulevard, 36527

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:45pm

Ages: 9 weeks - PreK4 www.jubileechildcare.com

New Life Assembly of God

After School Program

10424 Old Highway 31, 36527

Hours: Monday - Friday, 3:00pm - 6:00pm, We

pick up at Rockwell Elementary, Spanish Fort Elementary and Stonebridge Elementary

Ages: K5 - 5th Grade www.newlifecarespanishfort.org

New Life Assembly of God Preschool

10424 Old Highway 31 , 36527

Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am to 1:00pm; K4 now offering 5 days per week

Ages: 12 months - K4 www.facebook.com/NewLifePreschoolMomsDayOut

Spanish Fort UMC Preschool

6690 Spanish Fort Boulevard, 36527

Hours: 2 day, 3 day, and 5 day availability. Hours 9:00am - 12:00pm Ages: 2 years - Pre-K4 preschool@spanishfortumc.org www.sfumpreschool.org

Tiny Toros Learning Academy

11065 US Highway 31, 36527

Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm

Ages: 8 weeks - K4

tinytoroslearningacademy@gmail.com

Eastern Shore Academy

9543 Stagecoach Commercial Park Circle, 36527

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm

Ages: 8 weeks - K4

stephaniewilson@easternshoreacademy.com

If you know of a child care center that we haven’t included, please email lynn@easternshoreparents.com and we will add it to our online edition. ESP

Do your kids complain about being stressed?

How do you help them cope with it?

Experts agree on the following points:

Listen to Them: What’s Going On? How Are They Feeling?

It’s important to sit your kids down and ask them what’s happening and how they feel. Then, listen calmly and non-judgmentally to what they have to say. “Children learn (and take cues) from the adults around them,” says child psychologist Dr. Lyn O’Grady, “so adults need to be mindful of how they approach stressful situations.” If you overreact to what they are telling you, they most likely will overreact, too. But if you stay calm and collected, you will have a much easier time helping them cope with whatever they are dealing with. As clinical psychologist, Dr. Barbara Greenberg succinctly puts it, “No child wants to talk to a parent who is losing her cool.”

Child psychotherapist Katie Hurley, The Happy Kids Handbook’s author, says that “knowing that you will listen and help them empowers them to work through their stress, instead of stuffing it down and potentially making it worse.” Remember that your kids are not looking for you to solve all of their problems once and for all. Instead, they are looking for you to truly listen to them as a way for them to work through their issues independently. “Sometimes,” says child psychologist Dr. Jamie Howard, “parents avoid having conversations with kids because they’re worried they won’t say the right thing or they won’t know how to answer their questions.” But the truth is that there is no such thing as the one correct answer. Failing to make yourself available to your kids when they need you the most is the only wrong thing.

Reassure Your Kids That They Are Strong and Capable

Listening to your kids is an important first step, but you also need to reassure them that they are strong and capable of coping with whatever stresses them out. Experts agree that you should try to convince your kids that it’s better to confront their stressors head-on than to shy away from them. “If a child faces his or her fears,” says professor of child psychology Dr. Amy Przeworski, “the child will learn that the anxiety reduces naturally over time.”

Dr. Przeworski says it’s also important to cultivate a positive outlook since stressed kids tend to get lost in negative thoughts and self-criticism. She explains, “They may focus on how the glass is half empty instead of half-full and worry about future events. The more you are able to focus on your child’s positive attributes and the good aspects of a situation, the more that will remind your child to focus on the positives.”

It’s helpful to give your kids some perspective by reminding them of how they dealt with similar situations in the past, which turned out all right. When confronted by a stressful situation, it’s easy for kids and adults to lose perspective and forget the previous times they faced a similar situation and that the outcome was not so bad after all.

Help Your Kids Experiment With Various Coping Techniques

Once your kids are reassured that they can handle stressful situations, try to experiment with various coping techniques. A one-size-fits-all strategy for dealing with stress doesn’t exist, but specific, time-test-

ed techniques have proven effective. One useful coping technique is to have your kids write down what’s causing them to be stressed. It teaches them to articulate what’s bothering them instead of bottling it up and helps them work through the problem and what to do about it. Mrs. Hurley suggests that they write down their stressors “on a piece of paper, read them to you, and then tear them up and throw them away for the night. This helps kids express their worries and let go of them.”

Another coping technique is to aim for balance in your kids’ lives. Instead of insisting they do well at school at all costs, emphasize that to be happy and stressfree, kids also need time for play and physical exercise. Dr. Greenberg suggests that parents sit down with their kids “and come up with a well-balanced schedule that includes all three of these important aspects of life.” When engaged in play or physical exercise, kids have the time to let their minds be free to come up with creative solutions to their sources of stress.

Make Sure Your Kids’ Physical Needs Are Met

As Dr. Greenberg puts it, “none of us at any age can deal with pressure effectively if we’re exhausted and hungry.” This advice applies to you as much as it does to your kids. You need to be well-rested and satisfied to listen to and support your kids.

Tanni Haas is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences & Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College

FamilyCalendar

Wednesday February 1

Winter Wednesdays

10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36582 Even during the cold season, Bellingrath Gardens is filled with blooms and beauty. Gulf Coast residents and visitors are invited to join us at our Winter Wednesdays series in January and February for sessions on gardening, history and more.

251-973-2217 www.bellingrath.org

Thursday February 2

Life At Sea Lecture Series: Radio CentralCommunicating during WWII

11:00 AM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Dr. Tim Morgan will discuss how the USS ALABAMA’s communication system was used and how critical Radio Central was to the operation of the ship during WWII. After the presentation, visitors can take a privately guided tour of Radio Central.

Lighted Lantern Craft (Free)

4:30 PM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Chinese New Year lighted lantern craft. Ages 11 and up. Registration required.

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Sr. Bowl Summit

6:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us Thursday February 2nd for a stage divided: A night with the Tide and Tigers. Moderated by famed football historian and Mobile, AL native Ivan Maisel, the annual Senior Bowl Summit brings together Alabama and Auburn football greats on stage for a memorable night as we listen to the best stories about their greatest moments as mem bers of the Crimson Tide and Tigers. https://www.seniorbowl.com/

Best of Baldwin 2023: Red Carpet Event

6:00 PM Orange Beach Event Center, 4671 Wharf

Pkwy W Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Winners who receive the most votes will be celebrated at the Best of Baldwin 2023: Red Carpet Event at the Orange Beach Event Center on Thursday, Feb. 2. Winners will also be featured in the annual Best of Baldwin glossy magazine, on the winners’ website and receive a free framed certificate and window cling. https://gulfcoastmedia.com/

Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents

“Disney’s The Little Mermaid” ($15)

7:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Art Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 www.orangebeachal.gov/423/Performing-Arts-Center

Theatre 98 presents

Four Old Broads

7:30 PM 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 theatre98.org

Friday February 3

Books, Beads & Brew Book Signing with Linda B. Schmitz Spangrud

3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Fairhope Brewing Company, 914 Nichols Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Linda B. Schmitz Spangrud will be signing her Turtle People Series Children’s Book including her recent release. “Miss Linda and the Turtle People Celebrate Mardi Gras.” Mardi Beads will be given to her customers. A portion of the sales from profit of these books will be donated to the Alabama Coastal Foundation (www.joinACF.org). www.spangrud.com

Sr Bowl Parade

6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join in on all the fun for the annual Senior Bowl Mardi Gras Player Parade at 6:30pm.

Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” $15)

7:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Art Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 www.orangebeachal.gov/423/Performing-Arts-Center

Big Bam Boom — A Hall & Oates Tribute

7:00 PM OWA Theater, 205-A N. OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 Big Bam Boom presents the music of Hall & Oates with precision and smooth harmonies -- resulting in a high-quality, live show. https://ci.ovationtix.com/35683/production/1146559

Theatre 98 presents Four Old Broads

7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue airhope, AL, 36532 theatre98.org

Free Senior Bowl Concert

8:00 PM Cathedral Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for our free downtown concert, located at Cathedral Square featuring Nelly.

Pirate Dash 2023 Knoll Park, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join us Saturday February 4, 2023 for the Fairhope Pirate Dash to support all Fairhope Elementary Schools! Run or walk our 5k event through the beautiful Fruit & Nut district or take on the 1-mile fun run that is loved by both students & adults! runsignup.com/Race/AL/Fairhope/FairhopePirateDash5k

Battlefield Blitz and Fun Run

8:00 AM Historic Blakeley State Park, 34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 https://www.blakeleypark.com/

Senior Bowl 2023

1:30 PM Hancock Whitney Stadium, 500 Stadium Dr Mobile, AL, 36608 The Reese’s Senior Bowl is widely regarded as the preeminent college football all-star game and the first stage in the NFL Draft process. www.seniorbowl.com

Chocolate and Champagne ($50)

6:30 PM - 9:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 This gala events is a fundraiser for the library. Please purchase your tickets at the circulation desk. www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Disney’s The Little Mermaid”

($15) 7:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Art Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 www.orangebeachal.gov/423/Performing-Arts-Center

Big Bam Boom — A Hall & Oates Tribute

7:00 PM OWA Theater, 205-A N. OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 Big Bam Boom presents the music of Hall & Oates with precision and smooth harmonies -- resulting in a high-quality, live show. https://ci.ovationtix.com/35683/production/1146559

Mobile Opera presents Let Freedom Sing

7:30 PM Murphy High School Auditorium, 100 S Carlen St Mobile, AL, 36606 https://www.mobileopera.org/let-freedom-sing/

Theatre 98 presents Four Old Broads

7:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 theatre98.org

Sunday February 5

Massacre Island Secret Society (Dauphin Island)

10:00 AM Dauphin Island, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Massacre Island Secret Society (Dauphin Island)

Books, Beads & Brunch - Book Signing with Linda B. Schmitz Spangrud

12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Lucy’s Retired Surfer Bar & Restaurant at OWA, 103 S. OWA Boulevard Foley, AL, 36535 Linda B. Schmitz Spangrud will be signing her Turtle People Series Children’s Book including her recent release. “Miss Linda and the Turtle People Celebrate Mardi Gras.” Mardi Beads will be given to her customers. A portion of the sales from profit of these books will be donated to the Alabama Coastal Foundation (www.joinACF.org) to support Share the Beach, Alabama’s Sea Turtle Conversation program. www.spangrud.com

Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” ($15)

2:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Art Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 www.orangebeachal.gov/423/Performing-Arts-Center

Theatre 98 presents Four Old Broads

2:30 PM Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Theatre 98 presents Four Old Broads theatre98.org

Monday February 6

Winter Concert Series ($35)

7:00 PM Erie H. Meyer Civic Center, 1930 W 2nd St Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Riders in the Sky https://www.gulfshoresal.gov/1426/Winter-ConcertSeries

Tuesday February 7

2023 Baldwin Connect Career Expo

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Robertsdale Coliseum, 19477 Fairground Rd Robertsdale, AL, 36567 The Baldwin Connect Career Expo will be February 7th & 8th at the Robertsdale Coliseum. Students attending the expo will have resumes and/or can fill out applications for summer internships and after school jobs. General public is encouraged to bring resume for straight-to-work opportunities.

Winter Concert Series ($35)

7:00 PM Erie H. Meyer Civic Center, 1930 W 2nd St Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Riders in the Sky https://www.gulfshoresal.gov/1426/Winter-ConcertSeries

Shen Yun

7:30 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 Take your family and friends on a magical journey and discover new hope for the future! The breathtakingly beautiful Shen Yun show is as inspiring as it is exciting. https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Wednesday February 8

2023 Baldwin Connect Career Expo Details on February 7.

FamilyCalendar

Winter Wednesdays

Details on February 1.

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Knock Em Dead”

7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Knock Em Dead” www.sbct.biz

Thursday February 9

Life at Sea Lecture Series: Teak Deck

Replacement Update

11:00 AM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Past USS Alabama Battleship Commission Chairman Bill Tunnell will discuss the teak deck replacement underway aboard the USS Alabama. Learn about the process, the efforts made to keep the historic integrity of the ship’s deck, and the technology used. Lecture will be held in the Wardroom and is free for visitors to attend.

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Knock Em Dead”

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

Friday February 10

Casino on the Coast 2023

6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Orange Beach Event Center, 4671 Wharf Pkwy W Orange Beach, AL, 36561 A fun night of dinner, drinks and dancing. Biggest fundraiser of the year. 100% of proceeds donated back to the South Baldwin community. Helps support many local nonprofit organizations. Scholarship money awarded to local high school seniors & Coastal Alabama CC students.

https://al-orangebeach.civicplus.com/Calendar.aspx?E

ID=2802&month=2&year=2023&day=29&calType=0

Apollo’s Mystic Ladies

6:45 PM Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Starts behind the Daphne Civic Center on Scenic 98

Exit Stage Left presents LIFE Is The Working Title

7:30 PM Foley Civic Center, 407 E. Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 A middle-aged playwright has been commissioned to write a new play. Without a subject to write about and a deadline quickly approaching, he looks for inspiration within himself. He finds this challenging when he is forced to face his inner struggles with past ghosts, while also in search of happiness in the various relationships in his life.

251-385-3753 https://exitstageleft.org/

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Knock Em Dead”

7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Knock Em Dead” www.sbct.biz

Saturday February 11

Sea Turtle Half Marathon and Sweetheart 5k

7:00 AM The Hangout, 101 E. Beach Blvd. Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Join us for a flat and fast race along our beautiful Gulf Coast beaches. The afterparty is hosted by The Hangout with a good time to be enjoyed by all!

https://www.facebook.com/seaturtlehalf/

Living History Crew Drill

8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 History comes alive when our WWII reenactors come to the park for their winter drill. Demonstrations, presentations, and reenactments throughout the day. Included in admission.

Flora-Bama Super Chili Bowl Cook-Off

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Flora-Bama , 17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL, 32507 A Fundraiser for Relay For Life and The American Cancer Society https://www.facebook.com/ events/5222745347847840/

Mystic Mutts of Revelry Parade

3:00 PM Fairhopers Community Park, Church Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 The Mystic Mutts of Revelry Parade is a walking Mardi Gras parade in downtown Fairhope, AL, for the canine population. This year’s theme is “Pawjama Party.” Both human and their pets are encouraged to wear “pajama’s” to the event. https://www.facebook.com/mysticmuttsofrevelry

Knights of Ecor Rouge

6:30 PM Fairhope Civic Center, Fairhope, AL, 36532

Starts at the Fairhope Civic Center

Exit Stage Left presents LIFE Is The Working Title

7:30 PM Foley Civic Center, 407 E. Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 A middle-aged playwright has been commissioned to write a new play. Without a subject to write about and a deadline quickly approaching, he looks for inspiration within himself. He finds this challenging when he is forced to face his inner struggles with past ghosts, while also in search of happiness in the various relationships in his life. 251-385-3753 https://exitstageleft.org/

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Knock Em Dead”

7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Knock Em Dead” www.sbct.biz

Battle of Mobile Bay 5K Fort Gaines Historic Site, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 A scenic 5k course that starts at Fort Gaines and winds through scenic Dauphin Island neighborhoods. events.com/r/en_US/ registration/battle-ofmobile-bay-5k-dauphinisland-february-874379

2023 Gator Chase 10K, 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run on the Causeway

5 Rivers Delta Resource Center , 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Benefits Spanish Fort Education Enrichment Foundation (SFEEF) in providing educational enrichment opportunities for students who attend Spanish Fort schools. https://www.eventbrite.com/

Sunday February 12

Exit Stage Left presents LIFE Is The Working Title

2:00 PM Foley Civic Center, 407 E. Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 A middle-aged playwright has been commissioned to write a new play. Without a subject to write about and a deadline quickly approaching, he looks for inspiration within himself. He finds this challenging when he is forced to face his inner struggles

with past ghosts, while also in search of happiness in the various relationships in his life.

251-385-3753 https://exitstageleft.org/

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Knock Em Dead”

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

Tuesday February 14

Valentine’s Day Horse + Carriage

Rides ($25 per carriage ride ) The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Sweeten the plans for your Valentine this year and spend your evening under the moon in an enchanted horsedrawn carriage.

https://alwharf.com/

Wednesday February 15

35th Annual Game Day and Salad Luncheon

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Orange Beach Event Center, 4671 Wharf Pkwy West Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The Orange Beach Garden Club is pleased to announce its 35th Annual Game Day and Salad Luncheon and invites the public to join club members for this day of food, fun and prizes! Tickets are available at The Emporium Gift Shop in the Orange Beach Rouse’s Shopping Center on the Beach Road, and at Wildflowers Boutique in The Commons Shopping Center on Canal Road, next to Another Broken Egg Restaurant. www.orangebeachal.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=2812&m onth=2&year=2023&day=13&calType=0

Winter Wednesdays

Details on February 1.

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Knock Em Dead”

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

Thursday February 16

Life at Sea Lecture Series: The Role of Submarines in WWII

11:00 AM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Staff member and author Tom Bowser will discuss the role of submarines during WWII. Learn about the USS DRUM’s battle history and the support her sister submarines gave in silent service during the war. Lecture will be held in the Wardroom and is free for visitors to attend.

Winter Concert Series ($35)

7:00 PM Erie H. Meyer Civic Center, 1930 W 2nd St Gulf Shores, AL, 36542

www.gulfshoresal.gov/1426/Winter-Concert-Series

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Knock Em Dead”

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

Friday February 17

Turtle Talk and Book Signing with Linda B. Schmitz Spangrud

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Learning Campus at Gulf State Park (Conservation Hall), 20249 A State Park Road Gulf Shores, AL Linda B. Schmitz Spangrud will be signing

FamilyCalendar

her Turtle People Series Children’s Book including her recent release. “Miss Linda and the Turtle People Celebrate Mardi Gras.” Mardi Beads will be given to her customers. A portion of the sales from profit of these books will be donated to the Alabama Coastal Foundation (www.joinACF.org) to support Share the Beach, Alabama’s Sea Turtle Conversation program. www.spangrud.com

Maids of Jubilee

6:45 PM Fairhope Civic Center, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Starts at the Fairhope Civic Center on Section Street; south on Section to Fels Avenue; west on Fels to Church Street; north on Church to Fairhope Avenue; east on Fairhope to Bancroft Street; north on Bancroft to Magnolia Avenue; west on Magnolia to Church Street; south on Church to Fels Avenue; east on Fels to Section Street; north on Section to end at the starting point.

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Knock Em Dead”

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

Sea Lab Science Friday: STEM: The Ocean Version

Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Sea Lab Science Friday: STEM: The Ocean Version, Please register at bit.ly/ SeaLabScienceFridays. Ocean Drifters

- 9:30-11:30 am, Trash(in) the Ocean - 1:00-3:00 pm and ROVing the Gulf3:00-5:00 pm bit.ly/SeaLabScienceFridays

Saturday February 18

Foley Parade

12:00 PM West Roosevelt and Alston Foley, AL Starts at West Roosevelt and Alston and travels north on Alston; turns west on 98 (West Laurel Avenue); turns south on Oak Street; turns east on West Roosevelt and ends at Alston.

Krewe of Mullet Mates

2:00 PM Mullet Point, Point Clear, AL

Mystical Order of Mirams

5:30 PM Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange Beach, AL

A two-mile stretch of Perdido Beach Boulevard (Alabama 182) from west to east. Starting at Wintzell’s Oyster House (24131 Perdido Beach Boulevard) and ending at Alabama 161.

Mystics of Pleasure

6:00 PM Perdido Beach Boulevard Orange Beach, AL, 36561 A two-mile stretch of Perdido Beach Boulevard (Alabama 182) from west to east. Starting at Wintzell’s Oyster House (24131 Perdido Beach Boulevard) and ending at Alabama 161.

Shadow Barons

6:45 PM Daphne Civic Center, Daphne, AL, 36526 Starts behind the Daphne Civic Center

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Knock Em Dead”

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

Sunday February 19

Alabama Authors Day

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 This special celebration showcases the work of accom-

plished writers throughout the state, with an emphasis on Gulf Coast authors and those who explore topics associated with regional history and natural heritage.

www.blakeleypark.com/

Loyal Order of the Firetruck

2:29 PM Daphne Civic Center, Daphne, AL, 36526 Starts behind the Daphne Civic Center

South Baldwin Community Theatre presents “Knock Em Dead”

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

Krewe du Cirque

6:00 PM OWA, Foley, AL, 36535 Krewe du Cirque parade.

Friday February 24

5th Annual Radio Theatre Festival

7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Join us once again for a trip back to the Golden Age of Radio Comedy & Drama with our 5th Annual Radio Theatre Festival.

www.sbct.biz

Saturday February 25

Arbor Day Tree Giveaway

8:00 AM - while supplies last, Bay Minette City Hall, 301 D’Olive Street Bay Minette, AL, 36507 The Bay Minette Beautification Committee will hold its annual Arbor Day Tree Giveaway. There will be a limit of six trees per household and two per species. Trees available will include Sawtooth Oak, Red Maple, River Birch, Catalpa, Red Bud, Sweetbay Magnolia, Yoshino Cherry, Cornus Kousa, Blake Gum and Shumard Oak. Bush Farms will be set up to sell fruit trees and bushes. The Master Gardeners will have a booth set up to provide information for caring for the trees and other plantings. 251-580-1625

I Pink I Can 4 Mile Run/Walk

9:00 AM Flora-Bama , 17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL, 32507 The unique annual I Pink I Can Run

4-Mile Run/Walk for breast cancer will take place Feb. 25 at 9 a.m. from the Flora-Bama in Orange Beach, Alabama.

runsignup.com/Race/FL/Pensacola/IPinkICanRun

31st Annual Orange Beach Seafood Festival and Car Show

M-80s Rockshow

7:30 PM OWA, 205-A N. OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 The M-80s Rockshow rolls in to OWA Resort in Foley for an ‘80s Mardi Gras Party! visitowa.com/entertainment/owa-theater

Monday February 20

Moonpies on Main

4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Mardi Gras kid + pet and float parades. The spectacle will feature something for all to enjoy and collect festive throws — even your furry friends. So come early with the krewe to kick-off the night with our rockin’ DJ and kids’ activities including pony rides, bouncy houses, rock wall and more. https://alwharf.com/

Order of Mystic Magnolias

6:45 PM Fairhope Civic Center, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Starts at the Fairhope Civic Center

Tuesday February 21

Gulf Shores Parade

10:00 AM Winn Dixie Shopping Center, Gulf Shores, AL

Orange Beach Parade

2:00 PM Perdido Beach Blvd Orange Beach, AL, 36561

Thursday February 23

Life at Sea Lecture Series: Spiritual Support at Sea and Beyond During WWIINavy Chaplains on Go

11:00 AM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Rear Admiral Endel Lee, U.S. Navy (Ret.) will discuss how chaplains served during the war. Learn about the challenges they faced, the services they provided, and the tools they were given.

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The annual festival features a full day of delicious food, 100 artists from throughout the South, and music for the whole family to enjoy on two stages. In addition, there is a large Kids’ Zone with activities, and a huge car show - featuring antique, classic and hot rod vehicles all along Main Street. https://www.orangebeachal.gov/428/Seafood-Fest

Chili for Charity ($15.00 at the gate ($12.50 in advance from EVENTBRITE or the office of EMI)

11:30 AM - 2:00 PM, Hallstead Amphitheater, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Besides some of the best chili you will taste in Baldwin County there will be live music by Blind Dog Mike and the Howler, a mechanical Bull, zoo ambassadors from the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, tasty baked goods and of course the friendly competition among our cooking teams. www.baldwinemi.org

Toto-Dogz Of Oz Tour

7:30 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 Toto-Dogz Of Oz Tour https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

5th Annual Radio Theatre Festival

7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Join us once again for a trip back to the Golden Age of Radio Comedy & Drama with our 5th Annual Radio Theatre Festival. www.sbct.biz

Beachin’ 5K & 10K

Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion, 20115 State Park Rd. Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 The We Run This Beach Marathon will be a beautiful, fast, and scenic course with gorgeous views of Lake Shelby, Middle and Little Lakes. The course will start and finish near the Gulf State Park Lodge and traverse the pancake-flat paved paths throughout Gulf State Park. The event will have Chip Timing splits at the 10K for both Half Marathon & Marathon, and then a 1/2 marathon split for the marathoners. And then there’s the post-race party. https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/GulfShores/WeRunThisBeachMarathon

FamilyCalendar

Sunday February 26

5th Annual Radio Theatre Festival

2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Join us once again for a trip back to the Golden Age of Radio Comedy & Drama with our 5th Annual Radio Theatre Festival. www.sbct.biz

We Run This Beach Marathon & Half Marathon Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion, 20115 State Park Rd. Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 We Run This Beach Marathon & Half Marathon https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/GulfShores/WeRunThisBeachMarathon

Friday March 3

Mobile Boat Show (Adult tickets-$10 each, Children 15 and under FREE, Military $2 off)

12:00 PM8:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The 2023 show will feature a great selection of boats, motors, personal watercraft, and marine accessories. In addition to a huge selection of boats, there are great special events for the whole family to enjoy! https://gulfcoastshows.com/mobile/

Saturday March 4

Armadillo Dash

9:00 AM 19757 County Road 64 Robertsdale, AL, 36567 5K Run, 5K Walk, and 1 mile Fun Run, There will also be music, vendors, bounce house, silent auction, and more! runsignup.com/Race/AL/Robertsdale/ArmadilloDash

Ballyhoo Festival

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Gulf State Park, 20115 State Park Road Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 This exciting festival event is unique in its focus on fine art, combined with cultural charm, and the fun-loving spirit of residents of Coastal Alabama! Enjoy fine art from all across the southeast, local seafood, and live music! www.ballyhoofestival.org

Mobile Boat Show (Adult tickets-$10 each, Children 15 and under FREE, Military $2 off)

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Details on March 3.

Sunday March 5

Mobile Boat Show (Adult tickets-$10 each, Children 15 and under FREE, Military $2 off)

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Details on March 3.

Ballyhoo Festival

11:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Details on March 4.

Annual Afternoon Tea ($25)

3:00 PM Bragg Mitchell Mansion, 1906 Spring Hill Ave

Mobile, AL, 36607 Join Mobile Opera at the beautiful, Bragg Mitchell Mansion for an afternoon tea with guest speaker, David David from Alabama Public Radio. Mobile Opera Young Artists will provide the music for the afternoon.

(251) 432-6772 https://www.mobileopera.org/

Wednesday March 8

Floyd Nation

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street

Mobile, AL Floyd Nation is a U.S.-based Pink Floyd Tribute Band that performs all of your favorite hits from the vast collection of Pink Floyd albums. www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Saturday March 11

Orange Beach Festival of Art (Free admission)

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 26389 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 It is a celebration of visual, performing, musical and culinary arts. With more than 100 artists working in a dazzling variety of media, festival-goers always have plenty to see, hear, touch, taste and experience.

(251) 981-2787 www.OrangeBeachArtsFestival.com

Crawfish for the Classroom (Adult $25 presale or $35 at the door. Kids 6-12 $5. Teachers $10. Kids 5 and under Free) 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Daphne City Hall, We are excited to announce SEEDS Inaugural Crawfish for the Classroom Event presented by 68 Ventures. Event festivities include Crawfish from MudBug Mafia, live music from Anthony Crawford of Sugarcane Jane, featuring Pete Nice, children’s activities and local brews from Fairhope Brewing Company! Ticket includes crawfish, hot dog & chips, and dessert. Separate beer tickets will be sold for 3 for $10 or 1 for $5 with a valid I.D. All proceeds go to the 2023 SEEDS Classroom Grant Program for Daphne schools supporting Daphne High School, Daphne Middle, W.J. Carroll Intermediate, Daphne East Elementary, Daphne Elementary and Belforest Elementary.

www.seedscrawfishboil.brownpapertickets.com

The Mobile Symphony Orchestra Presents Musical Romance

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL The Mobile Symphony Orchestra Presents Musical Romance https://mobilesymphony.org/

Sunday March 12

Orange Beach Festival of Art (Free admission)

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 26389 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 It is a celebration of visual, performing, musical and culinary arts. With more than 100 artists working in a dazzling variety of media, festival-goers always have plenty to see, hear, touch, taste and experience. (251) 981-2787 www.OrangeBeachArtsFestival.com

The Mobile Symphony Orchestra Presents Musical Romance

2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Mobile Symphony Orchestra Presents Musical Romance https://mobilesymphony.org/

Monday March 13

Gulf Coast Spotlight Talent Showcase Murphy High School Auditorium, 100 S Carlen St Mobile, AL Gulf Coast Spotlight Talent Showcase strives to shine the spotlight on talented young performers right in our own community, encourage and reward their pursuits and give funds to our local schools to support arts programs, thereby reaching more children in the Gulf Coast region. http://gulfcoastspotlight.com

Thursday March 16

Women’s Resource Center Gala

5:30 PM Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 https://wrcmobile.org/

Friday March 17

51st Annual Outdoor Art Show

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Eastern Shore Art Center, 401 Oak Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 The art show has

included prestigious, international and regional fine artists for the past 50 years. This year, Eastern Shore Art Center will accept an exclusive selection of renowned artists and cutting-edge newcomers to attract the most respected art dealers, collectors, interior designers and art enthusiasts.

https://esartcenter.org/event/51st-annual-outdoorart-show/

The Wharf Boat + Yacht Show

The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Featuring over $100 million in boats and marine products, and more than 120 exhibiting companies, it’s the “Top Boat Buying Show” in the northern Gulf.

https://www.wharfboatshow.com/

Saturday March 18

Spring Fever Chase

8:00 AM Downtown Fairhope, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Join us at the 45th Spring Fever Chase 10k & 2 mile fun run raceroster.com/ events/2023/66341/spring-fever-chase-2023

51st Annual Outdoor Art Show

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Eastern Shore Art Center, 401 Oak Street Fairhope, AL, 36532 The art show has included prestigious, international and regional fine artists for the past 50 years. This year, Eastern Shore Art Center will accept an exclusive selection of renowned artists and cutting-edge newcomers to attract the most respected art dealers, collectors, interior designers and art enthusiasts.

https://esartcenter.org/event/51st-annual-outdoorart-show/

Flora-Bama’s Beach Run-Walk

Flora-Bama, 17401 Perdido Key Dr. Pensacola, FL, 32507 Flora-Bama’s 9th Annual Beach Run/Walk for America’s Warriors will be the best run of the year. https://www.florabama.com/beach-run

The Wharf Boat + Yacht Show

Details on March 17.

Sunday, March 19

51st Annual Outdoor Art Show Details on March 18.

Brides Just Wanna Have Fun 12th Annual Bridal Expo

12:00 PM Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for the 12th Annual Brides Just Wanna Have Fun Bridal Show 2023 at the Mobile Convention Center. Door prizes, grand prizes and everything you can imagine to plan your perfect wedding.

www.asmglobalmobile.com/

The Wharf Boat + Yacht Show

Details on March 17.

Wednesday, March 22

Festival of Flowers Preview Gala

Ascension Providence Hospital Campus, 6801 Airport Blvd Mobile, AL, 36608 The black tie Preview Gala opens the 2023 Festival of Flowers on Wednesday, March 22rd, 2023 and welcomes major sponsors as well as those purchasing a special ticket. The elegant fete will feature delicious cuisine by Clifton Morrissette Catering with wine pairings.

https://festivalofflowers.com/

FamilyCalendar

Every Monday

Free Build - STEM Play (Free)

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

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

MakerSpace Mondays at Fairhope Library

6:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 9+. Join us every Monday in the MakerSpace for fun, hands-on crafts and activities. We will have a different craft, experiment, or group activity every week! All materials are provided for free.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Every Tuesday

Movers & Shakers Toddler Storytime (Free) 10:00 AM - 10:50 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532

Ages 18 months to 2 years old. Join us for a special storytime just for toddlers every Tuesday at 10am in the Activity Room for silly books, silly songs, and fun crafts. This summer we will focus on ocean themed stories and crafts - perfect for our little explorers!

251-929-1465 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 (Free)

11:00 AM - 11:50 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 3 to 7 years old. Join our super fun storytime every Tuesday at 11am, where we read new books, sing new songs, do creative crafts, and make new friends. This summer we will focus on ocean themed stories and crafts! 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Every Wednesday

Storytime - Page & Palette

10:30 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

Bookworm Bandits Book Club (Free)

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 8-12. Need some fun books to read this summer? Ms. Casey has you covered! Join her every Wednesday in Study Room #2 to discuss what you’re reading and chat about the monthly book club picks. Books are provided for free. Questions? Email tweens@ fairhopelibrary.org

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Every Thursday

Babies and Books Storytime (Free)

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages Newborn to 18 months. www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Storytime ThursdaySpanish Fort Library

10:30 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join the Spanish Fort Public Library for stories, songs, and group time each Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m. Best for ages 5 and under. 251-410-READ www. spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Pre-K Story Time (Free)

10:30 AM Daphne Public Library, 2607 US-98 Daphne, AL, 36526 Pre-K story time at 10:30 am (24 months to 4 years) stories and craft.

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

Homeschool Hour

11:00 AM - 11:55 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 8-14. Join us every Thursday at 11am for Homeschool Hour! We will explore a new topic every week, followed by a hands-on craft or STEAM based activity. The idea is to explore fun topics in a laid-back, relaxed setting

- the perfect place to make new friends! Need more info? Email youthservices@fairhopelibrary.org

251-929-1465

Every Friday

Free Build - STEM Play (Free)

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

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Every Friday in February and March

Free Tax Prep

Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Free tax prep, call for an appointment

251-289-9478 www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Every first and third Sunday

Animal Ambassadors

2:00 PM Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at 2 PM as we present one or more of our live educational animals. Free, family friendly, no registration required. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Every second Saturday

ART Club Saturday

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM, Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 ART Club Saturday! 9:30 – 10:30 limit of 15 participants. Best for ages 7 and up. Advance registration is recommended to ensure we have enough supplies. Visit https://www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org/sfplevents for more information.

251-410-READ www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Every third Saturday

Observe and Explore (Free)

10:00 AM Graham Creek Natural Preserve, 23460 Wolf Bay Drive Foley, AL, 36535 The program will begin at 10:00 am with a story that fits the theme. This will be followed by a short lesson with an activity or science experiment. The program will end with a themed craft. Lessons and activities are based on elementary level concepts and skills related to nature.

251-923-4267 http://grahamcreekpreserve.org

Second and fourth Sundays

Mobile Bay Maker’s Market

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

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

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

Is Your Child Talking to a Stranger Online (Part 2)

Last month we discussed the reality that your child may be talking to a predator online. This month I want to teach you the behavior signs you may see in your child and also what to look for when checking their devices.

First, let’s discuss the behavior signs. Internet Safety 101 does a wonderful job with the following list. Pay attention if your child becomes secretive about online activities, obsessive about being online, angry when they can’t get online, receives phone calls from people you do not know, or makes calls to numbers you do not recognize. Also, if they begin receiving gifts, mail, or packages from someone you do not know, withdraw from family and friends, change screens or turn off the computer when an adult enters a room, and/or download pornography online.

Clearly, some of these behaviors can be labeled “normal” or “typical” teen behavior. What is important to note is when some of these behaviors escalate. For instance, take note if you have a rule in your home that you do random device checks, and your child/teen begins to give you pushback. It is also great to start open conversations about why they do not want you to check their devices.

Predators will target youth through games. They may establish a relationship with your child by promising to buy them things, either within the game or physical items, to send to your home. If your child begins receiving items at home that you have not purchased, this is time to have a very serious conversation, as it means the predator now has your address and access to your home.

What should you look for online when doing your random device checks? Predators will often tell their target they are the same age so their target will trust them. They almost always want to chat privately with your child. If they “meet” your child during a game, they will ask your child to move to a private chat through another app. Please teach your child NEVER to leave the app they are on to chat with someone in a private message on another app. Predators will try to get personal info from your child through subtle comments. When checking your child’s info, be wary of anyone who has asked where your child lives, birthday, school info, neighborhood info, anything that gives away where they live, and out and go to school. Predators will also work hard to make your child feel special by telling them how beautiful, amazing, smart, etc., they are. After relationships have been

established (via grooming), predators will then ask for pictures, videos, etc. Often, these requests are followed up with threats to the child/teen and/or their friends and family if the child doesn’t want to cooperate.

What can you do? Talk to your child. Consistently. Regularly. About predators and what that behavior looks like. Talk to them until they are tired of hearing it. Then talk some more. The one thing I have learned is that as much pushback as kids give us about social media safety chats, they DO hear us. Maybe not always, but many times they do listen. And as a parent, it is our job to try our best to educate and protect them from online dangers. So keep having these talks and doing your random device checks. They are your very best first line of defense.

***Please note that if a predator has contacted your child, immediately report it to your local police. No matter how “small” you think the incident may be. There may be much bigger incidents with other children involving that predator. The police will lead you in the right direction regarding who to speak with and the appropriate follow-up.

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

(Left to right) Susie FitzHarris, MD, FAAP; Olivia Akins, CRNP; Janelle Davis, CRNP; Elizabeth Orr, MD, FAAP; Jennifer Walker, MD, FAAP; Paula Drummond, MD, FAAP; Jennie Breslin, MD, FAAP; Rhoda Burns, MD, FAAP; Meg Moore, MD, FAAP