Eastern Shore Parents June 13

The Best...

Just Got Better.

415-1000 www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh

Contents June 2013 Volume 6 Number 1

Features 42

Avoiding the Entitlement Trap

48

Simple Celebrations From A-Z

50

2013 Birthday Party Planner

66

What Dads Do Best

Find tips for raising responsible kids in a consumption-crazed culture.

Your child’s birthday party doesn’t have to be a strain on the budget or your sanity. Check out these creative and easy ideas!

Our local listing of all things “birthday” will help you plan that special day for your child.

Columns 2 From One Parent to Another

Moms and dads are different in so many way, but equally needed and important to a child’s development. Discover what dads do best and compliment him today!

Lynn Knighton

4 Living With Children John Rosemond

On The Cover

14 Kids Health

by Dr. Robert L. Rux, M.D.

6 Bits and Pieces

44 Get This!

Paige Gardner Smith

16 School Bits

46 Dave Says

69 Family Calendar

Dave Ramsey

58 A Page in a Book

76 Movie Reviews

Paige Gardner Smith

FlyLady 60 The Marla Cilley

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Departments

Carson Leigh McKee, celebrating her 5th birthday in July, is daughter of Edgar & Kelli McKee of Gulf Shores, and big sister to Geer McKee. Carson enjoys ballet, tap, singing, art, swimming, and activities with her little brother.

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

EasternShoreParents

The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com

Associate Editor Kelly Watson kelly@easternshoreparents.com

Research Editor Nancy Sherrell

Advertising Opportunities Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall Traci Calvert

ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099

Contributing Writers Marla Cilley Malia Jacobson Heather Lee Leap Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Dr. Robert L. Rux, M.D. Paige Gardner Smith

Cover Photography Mandy Haber www.mandyhaber.com

President

Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com

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

Eastern Shore Parents is copyrighted 2013

by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved.

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

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

From One Parent to Another...

My daughter recently had a birthday party and during the planning we began to discuss some of my birthday parties growing up. The earliest I remember was a Raggedy Ann party. My mom bought me a Raggedy Ann costume and she even found one to wear, too! And, of course, there were several slumber parties and skating parties. My girls laughed as I showed them pictures from my 5th grade skate party. I had jeans with a rainbow down the leg, matching rainbow suspenders and giant pompoms on the skates. They thought it was hilarious!

It is fun to share those memories with my girls because birthday parties are one of the few things that have not changed too much over the years.

We love planning birthday parties, and around the Eastern Shore there are so many great party resources to choose from. Whether you have a birthday party to plan next month or later in the year, you need to hold on to this issue. We have packed it with a large list of resources in the Birthday Party Planner on page 50. We also have a helpful article on the topic, Simple Celebrations from A to Z, where the author offers several ideas to help jump start your party planning.

One of her suggestions is to donate to a cause in lieu of gifts. I think that is such a sweet idea and a great way to get your children involved in community service. Becoming aware of others’ needs is a good way to teach them that there are much more important things in life than having the newest gadget or the hottest designer clothes.

I think we can all agree there is a growing problem in kids (and young adults) with entitlement issues. Malia Jacobson has written Avoiding the Entitlement Trap: Raising Responsible Kids In a Consumption-Crazed Culture and she has it broken down into age groups making the lessons appropriate for that particular stage of development.

Anther celebration this month is Father’s Day. My girls are so close to Brad and they love making him Father’s Day gifts. One year we sent a picture to a paint studio and the girls went in and painted a portrait of his dog. And a few years ago we went to Paint N Parrot and made a big grill platter with the girls’ handprints on it made to look like hamburgers. On it was written: King of the Grill. His eyes actually watered up on that one. It is still proudly displayed in our kitchen. In honor of fathers, Dr. Heidi Smith Luedtke has written a timely article, What Dads do Best. Moms, I encourage you to read it. I think sometimes moms get so caught up in doing things “the right way” that we lose sight of why we are doing what we are doing. Dads are much better at that than we are. Dads are less concerned with having the perfect outfit for the vacation and more concerned with how much fun they are going to have on the new waterslide. Dads are more concerned with great moments than great pictures. And yes, this self proclaimed control freak will admit it is very difficult to bite your tongue when you find out Dad took the kids out for ice cream 30 minutes before dinner, but those are the moments the kids will remember. So moms…let go and give dads a chance to be that special person only they can be. Give your children the chance to have those special memories only Dad can provide. Let go and watch what a wonderful relationship can be built between a father and his kids. There is always time to clean up later. Happy Father’s Day!

Lynn

Lynn Knighton, Publisher 2

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Living With Children

By John Rosemond

Sleep Problems with Three-Year-Old Q:

For the past several weeks, our justturned 3-year-old has been waking up and coming into our room at all hours of the night with the usual excuses. He’s scared, hungry, thirsty, lonely, can’t sleep, has to use the bathroom, wants a kiss, and so on.

He goes to bed at 7:30 if he takes an afternoon nap and 6:30 if he doesn’t. We are a marriage-centered household, so evenings are for Mom and Dad. Neither of our kids has ever even napped in our bed. When we take him back to his room, we usually lock the door. The next time he wakes up and discovers he can’t get out, he begins crying and kicking the door, waking our 4-year-old. Should we be patient, hoping this phase will pass quickly, or should we punish? We are zombies.

A: The living dead, eh? I remember

those days well. Our first, Eric, did not sleep the night until he was nearly three years old.

It is not at all unusual for a child’s sleep pattern to change around the third birthday. Some children outgrow the need to nap around this time. The fact that your son is on-again, off-again with his afternoon nap tells me he’s going through this transition. In that event, I encourage you to stop trying to fight city hall. Dispense with the afternoon nap altogether. Put him to bed at 7:00. Cut his bedroom door in half, just above the knob, then re-hang it and turn the knob around so you can control the lock.

After you put him to bed, close the half-door and lock it. Children don’t like being closed behind a full door because they can’t see out, but they accept the locked half-door fairly readily. Acceptance usually takes about a week.

A second, slightly more painful option is to dispense with his nap, put him to bed at 7:00, and just wait this out. As I said, it’s probably a transition that will resolve itself by the time he’s in high school. But seriously, can you put up with this for a month or so?

Option 3 is to put both boys to bed in the same bedroom, at the same time. Close their door and let them play themselves to sleep.

Tell them that as long as they’re quiet and don’t come out, they can keep the light on. If they make noise or come out, the lights go out and they have to go to sleep. If you enforce that calmly, you should be over the hump in a week or so, and you can return from the living dead. I am living proof.

Q: Our 9-year-old (only child) is home-

schooled. He starts out well for about one hour, but then the wheels start falling off. He has to constantly be told what to do, but if you don’t stand over him, it doesn’t get done.

My wife is tired of trying to teach a child that seems unwilling to be taught. We can take all of his things away from him and it doesn’t bother him. Suggestions?

A: I am a homeschool proponent, but I’m

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BabyPaloozaTour.com Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

also a realist. Homeschooling is not a onesize-fits-all educational option. Some children accept the responsibility well; others, like your son, do not.

I’ve said many times in this column that parents should not homeschool a child with whom they are having significant discipline issues. Needless to say, oppositional behavior in the homeschool context is highly counterproductive. Behavior problems need to be resolved before homeschooling is undertaken.

The other problem here may be that your wife is using a curriculum that requires too much involvement on her part. Micro-management works no better in a home-school than in any other situation. That quicksand can be avoided by getting plugged into a homeschool cooperative where teaching responsibilities are shared among several moms and the children are taught in a small group.

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

bits & pieces Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament

The 2013 Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament is designed to bring families together and encourage sportsmanship. The tournament takes place on Saturday, July 13. RMYAT is for children 15 years and younger and it typically attracts more than 1500 young anglers. The one-day event features 31 categories with prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes in all categories. One Master Angler is awarded. All participants receive a Zeigler hot dog, a Coca Cola, a Blue Bell ice cream, and a certificate. Winners will receive Mobile Bay Bears tickets.

All proceeds benefit the Mobile Jaycees Children's Christmas Shopping Tour. Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament Tickets are $3 per angler. Please visit our website to find out more information http://adsfr.com/rmyat.html.

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Kids' Kruise & Dauphin Island Sea Lab at Bellingrath Gardens

Join us for our annual lunch cruise on the Fowl River just for kids on July 17th!

Dauphin Island Sea Lab will be here with their Touch Table! Bring the kids, order your bag lunch and enjoy a fun filled cruise on Fowl River. 11:00 - 1:00 Reservations required. Kid's Kruise Gardens Admission - Members $16 for adults, $11 for children 5-12 & $6 for children 4 and under. Non-members $28 for adults, $17.50 for children 5-12 & $6 for children 4 and under. Call 251.973.2217 X 110 for reservations or visit http://www.bellingrath.org/ for more information.

Jennifer Claire Moore 16th Annual Professional Rodeo

The Jennifer Claire Moore Professional Rodeo will be held August 1-3 at 8 p.m. at the City of Foley Horse Arena. Pre-Rodeo activities each night start at 7 p.m. From bareback bronco riding and barrel racing to children's activities, the rodeo is fun for the whole family. The horse arena is just off Highway 59, south of South Baldwin Regional Medical Center. For more information, contact rodeo@jennifermoorefoundation.com, Millie: 251-971-3633.

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Third Grade Girls Invited to Be Their Best at Bootcamp

Distinguished Young Women of Baldwin County, formerly known as Baldwin County Junior Miss, presents Be Your Best Self Boot Camp for Girls in grade 3. Healthy food choices, exercise tips, positive practices to succeed in school, following your dreams, and making good choices will be some topics touched on by our current Distinguished Young Women. Campers will participate in 3 summer sessions, including an exclusive practice session with contestants. The girls will have back-stage access the night of the performance.

Boot campers will also have a short dance routine and an introduction on-stage during the Distinguished Young Women program this August.

Participants will also receive 2 free tickets to DYW of Baldwin County Program and a Boot Camp T-shirt. For registration information contact: Skylar Sawyer, Boot Camp Coordinator , DYW of Baldwin County, skylarsawyer@gmail.com. Registration deadline is June 16.

Livemocha Goes Live at Orange Beach Public Library

If you’ve always wanted to learn a new language, the Orange Beach Public Library's new online interactive language learning resource, Livemocha, is for you. Livemocha is the world’s largest online language learning community and offers free language courses in 38 languages including Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, and Mandarin. The library's patrons have unlimited access to all levels of learning with each language. Courses allow users to begin at the level of their choosing, ranging from basic to fluent. Students also have the opportunity to practice conversation with native speakers of the language. Livemocha also offers extensive ESL (English as a Second Language) support. To get started exploring this great new resource, just follow the links to the adult or juvenile Livemocha sites from the Orange Beach Library's Website (www. orangebeachlibrary.org), choose a language from the drop-down menu and register with an email address and password to log in. It’s accessible anywhere, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

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Junie B. Jones Bus Tour Coming to Page & Palette

Summer 2013 marks the tenth anniversary of The Junie B. Jones ® Stupid Smelly Bus Tour, a national tour that brings everyone’s favorite first grader Junie B. Jones to life through a live, theatrical performance that includes a show and tell of some of Junie B.’s favorite things from home. With an original script written by awardwinning author Barbara Park, Junie B. Jones and her bus driver, Mr. Woo will be entertaining new readers and established fans alike. The Junie B. Jones ® series is one of the most popular among kids, and has sold over 55 million print, audio books, and eBooks to date. Launched in the summer of 2004, Junie B. Jones and Mr. Woo have spent almost every summer traveling the country in their hot pink bus. This year the pair will visit 20 cities from May through July, where Junie B. will perform for her fans, and will then “stamp” their books with her signature stamp pad. The events conclude with fun, Junie B.-themed giveaways for kids to take home as a keepsake of their meeting with Junie B.! The events are open to the public, and are recommended for children ages 5 and up. For more information visit www.JunieBJones.com. This year, the tour will be headed to Fairhope, appearing at Page & Palette on June 15th, at 2 p.m.

Springhill Toyota Sponsors Inaugural Hope Cup Golf Tournament to Benefit USA Mitchell Cancer Institute

Springhill Toyota will sponsor the Inaugural Hope Cup golf tournament to benefit University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute on Thursday, June 20, at The Country Club of Mobile. Registration begins at 10 a.m. followed by a putting contest at 10:30 a.m. and the shotgun start for the tournament at 12:00 p.m.

Prizes include hole-in-one new car giveaways, trophies and gift certificates to first place winners in each of three flights, and other prizes to winners of the putting contest, longest drive, closest to the pin and other special contests. The cost is $1,000 per team, which includes a cart, green fees, driving range balls, lunch and dinner. For an additional $200, a hole sponsorship is also included. All players will receive a complimentary gift bag and a team photo. Sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels. For more information and registration forms, please contact the Office of MCI Development at (251) 460-7023 or via email at kmccarron@usouthal.edu.

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bits & pieces Wal-Mart Giftcards Available to Participants in Fathers Rock Program

Fathers Rock Mobile and Fathers Rock Daphne offer up to $150 in Wal-Mart giftcards for completing classes and a $10 Wal-Mart giftcard to participants who refer a friend to Fathers Rock. Classes are held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100 in Mobile and 27365 Pollard Road in Daphne.

Interested fathers should call 251-479-5700 in Mobile and 251-626-1610 in Daphne. Classes available are co-parenting, positive fathering and anger management and are held Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Free gas cards or bus passes, free supper, free childcare, free class materials and certificate of completion are awarded. This program is not only completely free, you earn to learn! Visit www.familycentermobile.org for more information on this program and others that are offered at The Family Center of Mobile and The Family Center in Daphne.

The Haven Honors their Volunteers

As National Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 21-27) came to a close, the Haven held an appreciation luncheon at Wintzell’s in the Eastern Shore Centre in recognition of the contributions and many hours that their volunteers donate to the no-kill animal shelter. The volunteers were not only treated to lunch, but had a chance to make new friends or get re-acquainted with each other. Volunteers Joni Euler, Colleen Colsey and Debbie Czajka were presented pins in recognition of the hours they have given to the Haven, and door prizes were awarded. A special thanks to Wintzell’s who hosted and sponsored the event and photographer Angie Carn who made great memories of the event. Front Row: Page Sute, Janelle Norris, Sandy Wollangk, Jackie Brettel and Joni Euler; 2nd Row: Marilyn Moen, Nancy Weems, Karen Brunaugh, Valerie Meyer, Nancy Payne, Debbie Czajka; 3rd row: Mike Graham, Ralph Thayer, Randy Kelly, Roxanne Shick, Janet Taverna, Jean-Marie McDonnell, Julie Ford, Diane Suda, Jan Gentry, Colleen Colsey, Aimee Egbert, and Bob Battaglia. Article/photo were submitted by The Haven.

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Baypointe Dance Academy Wins Top Awards!

All three company teams participated in 2013 Regional Competition Season. Our top honors include: Seniors Division Routine "Circus" receiving Double Platinum, Elite Top 1st Place and 1st Place Gold, 2nd Overall Best Performance, 5th Overall High Score and Invite to the New York Summer Intensive Program for the second time.

Our Teen Division Routine "We Run The Night": Double Platinum, Top 1st Place, 1st Place Gold, 1st Overall Best Performance, Special Judges Award for High Energy!

Junior Division Routine "Hey Baby": 1st Place Platinum, Top 1st Place, 1st Place Gold, 4th Overall Best Performance, and Special Judges Award for Dynamic Divas!

Our Dance Company qualified and will attend Nationals in Destin, Florida in July.

Pictured: Back Row : Left to Right: Zoey Gibson, Olivia Buchanan, Alexis Wetzel, Abigail Oswald, Bayleigh Blackard, Brooke Justesen, Logan Mavar, and Cailtin Roberts. Middle Two Rows Left to Right: Rebecca Klimjack, Shelby Lee, Catelyn Alexander, Alyssa Rolls, Autumn Ford, Jaylee Schroeder, Madison Blake, Peyton Mann, Megan Schaffer, Emma Grace Vannoy, Ally Mavar, Cheney Pratt, Anna Claire Kinsey, Libbie Graham, Heather Mann, and Stella Pope Norris. Front row left to right: Haley White, Landry Mavar, Olivia Davis, Hali Everette, Sophie Jernigan, Maren Cunningham, Kearston Costello, and Kamden Eady.

FEEF Announces Summertime Fun

Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation’s Lego Robotics for Beginners, a camp combining Lego blocks and computers, is one of several summer activities offered by FEEF in the months of June and July.

Other camps include Intro to band, and Zach’s Camp - Summer Fun for the Multi-disabled. According to FEEF Executive Director Cori Yonge, musical instruction for new and intermediate level band students is a program in high demand. Band camp is designed not only for fun but also to give sixth, seventh and eighth grade music students a jump-start for the new school year and an opportunity to polish their skills. Camps are open to public, private and home schooled students. For a complete listing of camps and times visit www.feefonline.org download a camp PulmAssoc PurpFlwr ad and 5/8/13 10:43 AM brochure Page 1and registration form or call 990-FEEF.

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

bits & pieces Pre-Prom Crash Reenactment Held at Foley High School

Foley High School juniors and seniors were busy with their school day and thoughts of their upcoming prom as they were escorted by their teachers to a south field on campus where they witnessed a gruesome scene of crashed cars, bloody passengers, flashing lights, and the sound of sirens approaching in the distance. Silence among the students ensued as they watched the mock crash unfold. The Foley Fire Department responded to the scene and extracted the injured passengers who were then transported via MEDStar ambulance while the Baptist LifeFlight helicopter landed in the distance, the Foley Police Department arrived arresting the drunken driver, parents of the crash victims cried while all of the emergency service technicians worked the scene simultaneously just as they would with any other motor vehicle accident. A deceased passenger was placed in a hearse by the Pine Rest Funeral Home officials. After a brief speech by Officer Jack Nelson with the Foley Police Department, students were asked to sign a pledge stating that they would not drink and drive nor ride in a vehicle with someone who had been drinking on prom night. This prom safety event, entitled Operation Scared Safe, is held every two years on the Foley High School campus during prom week and is sponsored by local State Farm agent, Frances Holk-Jones.

This impactful event takes the collaboration of multiple community entities working together flawlessly. Tommy Gebhart and Kevin Barnwell with the Foley Fire Department coordinated the emergency services & logistics of this year's Operation Scared Safe. Foley High School driver education teacher, David Watson, coordinated the student & campus portions of the event. Vince Parker from Faulkner State University provided the makeup and applied the injury detail to all of the participating student actors & actresses whom were led by teacher, D. D. Andersen. The adult actors included Jennifer Dawson of Foley and Steve Heath of Summerdale. Little Bitty's Towing donated the crashed cars for the event.

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Girl Scouts Give Back

The Girl Scout Cookie Sale is the largest girl-led business in the country, teaching girls five essential skills, such as goal setting, decision-making, money management, public speaking and business ethics. In southern Alabama alone, Girl Scouts sold more than 960,000 packages of cookies. With Girl Scout Cookie Program earnings, girls fund important community projects locally or go on educational trips as a troop. Girl Scouts in southern Alabama did more than just sell cookies this year -- they donated them, too! Surprisingly, there are cases of cookies that never get purchased. When this happens, each troop can choose to donate the left over cookies to a special project called Cookie Share. This year, over 3,200 packages of Girl Scouts cookies were shipped to the men and women serving in the military, and another 7,200 packages were donated to local churches, hospitals, food banks and food pantries. Troop leader Vicki Nobles, from Troop 8170 in Daphne, said, “The girls love to sell and donate cookies. They have donated cookies to the veterans in the past, but have been working with the Prodisee Pantry all year and decided to donate cookies there.� The troops participate in the Cookie Share program annually when the Girl Scout Cookie sale is over and use their decision-making skills to decide which organization best aligns with the needs they would like to meet.

Thomas Hospital Foundation's 2013 Golf Classic Results

The day after the 18th Thomas Hospital Foundation Golf Classic dawned bright and beautiful...but the day before was less than ideal for golfing.

We still had a great tournament and appreciate everyone who came out and helped to raise funds in support of Thomas Hospital. Tournament Results: First Place Gross - Hix and Snedeker team: Jack Burrell, Haymes Snedeker, Larry Snedeker, John Wright; Second Place Gross Baldwin EMC team: Greg Gipson, Lee Lawson, Jim Teel, Jimmy Wilson; Third Place Gross - Hancock Bank team: Tommy Clement, Chris Fowler, John Gage, Craig Jones; First Place Net - TruBridge team: Parker Bostik, Anthony Neeley, Dean Oferrell, Shaun Shugart; Second Place Net - Air Gas team: Jimmy Duncan, Kevin Judice, Tony Nelson, Edwin Robertson; Third Place Net - Cowles Murphy Glover team: John Glover, Don McHenry, Dan Stolee; Longest Drive: Brinson Holder; Longest Drive #14: Don McHenry; Putting Contest Raffle - First Place: Derek Thomas; Closest to the Pin: Jim Teel.

Types of Evaluations Offered: Learning Problems Anxiety Disorders Mood Disorders ADHD Dr. Murphree is a licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents.

Abuse/Trauma Depressive Disorders Behavioral Disorders Autistic Spectrum Disorders Intellectual Functioning

East Bay Psychiatry and Associates (251) 928-4750 eastbaypsych@att.net Accepting Aetna, All Kids, American Behavioral, Blue Advantage, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, Cigna, Compsych, Magellan, Medicaid, Medicare, MHCA, State EIB, United Behavioral Health, Value Options

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

bits & pieces

Th o w

Gulf Shores Welcomes Acme Oyster House, Unveils Waterway Village Development

Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft and members of the City Council officially welcomed Acme Oyster House® and unveiled plans for a development they say will create increased sustainable economic opportunities while helping to restore and revitalize a once thriving area of the city. Waterway Village will soon begin to take shape along both sides of the Intracoastal Waterway and a unique downtown atmosphere will transform some of Gulf Shores’ most historic real estate. Its pedestrian friendly design will feature quaint streets with tree-lined sidewalks, inviting seating areas, decorative lamp posts and a waterfront boardwalk with year-round dining, shopping and entertainment. While the City is committing significant resources to Waterway Village, leaders say the long-term success of the area hinges on the ability to attract private partners. The City will immediately begin laying the foundation for Waterway Village by constructing a 215 space public parking area, implementing streetscape improvements along East 24th Avenue and East 2nd Street including the addition of 50-60 on-street parking spaces, sidewalks, landscaping, decorative lighting and street furniture throughout the area. Officials hope to have this first phase of construction completed by January 2014, while plans call for the addition of a waterfront boardwalk and a regional storm water plan to be implemented soon after. With local restaurants LuLu’s, Tacky Jacks and Rhythm & Ribs already in place, the addition of Acme Oyster House leaves Gulf Shores leaders understandably excited about the potential of Waterway Village.

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And the Winners of the Pleasure Island Poetry Contest Are‌

The 8th annual Pleasure Island Poetry, sponsored by the Orange Beach Public Library and their Friends organization, is an annual literacy event held in April to celebrate National Poetry Month. The contest was open to all students in K - 12th grade in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area schools. Certificates and prizes were awarded to the winners. The prizes at each grade level were $50 for 1st place, $35 for 2nd place and $25 for 3rd place. Winners include: K-5-1st Grade: SUPERIOR, EXCELLENT, and HONORABLE MENTION Noah Berry, homeschool; EXCEPTIONAL Nick Hasting, homeschool.

2nd -3rd Grade: SUPERIOR and HONORABLE MENTION Jade Jones, South Baldwin Christian Academy; EXCEPTIONAL Shay Clemons, South Baldwin Christian Academy; EXCELLENT Amelia Hasting, homeschool. 4th -5th -6th Grade: SUPERIOR Angelina Alberti, homeschool; EXCEPTIONAL Olivia Callahan, Orange Beach Elementary School; EXCELLENT Tatum Keel, Orange Beach Elementary School; HONORABLE MENTION Nick Vermillion, Orange Beach Elementary School. 7th -8th SUPERIOR Isabella Alberti, homeschool; EXCEPTIONAL Jess Drummond, South Baldwin Christian Academy; EXCELLENT Leon Hogan, South Baldwin Christian Academy; HONORABLE MENTION Michael Bass, South Baldwin Christian Academy, Jess Drummond, South Baldwin Christian Academy. 9th -10th Grade: SUPERIOR Emily Felts, Gulf Shores High School; EXCEPTIONAL Cora Ellis, Gulf Shores High School; EXCELLENT Brandon Davis, Gulf Shores High School; HONORABLE MENTION Morgan Dempsey, Gulf Shores High School. 11th -12th Grade: SUPERIOR Jessica Metz, Gulf Shores High School; EXCEPTIONAL and HONORABLE MENTION Paisley Shook, Gulf Shores High School; EXCELLENT and HONORABLE MENTION Kali Templeton, Gulf Shores High School.

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Kids Heal h

Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

Sunscreen & Bug Spray Safety Summer is here, so it’s time for swimming, boating, fishing, and playing outside! When I think back to my childhood growing up in Mobile, I often think about those long summer days, playing without a care in the world and wonder if I ever thought to put on sunscreen or bug spray. I’m pretty sure I didn’t. But times have changed, and we have to protect our children better.

It’s estimated that before the age of 18, we have almost 80% of our lifetime sun exposure. And this exposure puts us at a significantly increased risk of not only sunburn, but skin cancer as well. Let’s talk about some ways to protect your child.

For infants less than six months, always dress them in lightweight long pants and shirts with a brimmed hat, even if the sun exposure is thought to be short.

I can think of plenty of times when my family’s short trips to town end up as half day marathons and long times out in the sun. It’s OK to use sunscreen on infants on exposed areas as long as you avoid the palms of the hands (ingestion risk) and use at least an SPF of 30 or greater.

The times when you are most likely to feel the sun’s damaging effects are 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and that is of course the time when my kids play outside. So avoid that time when you can and apply at least

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

SPF 30 waterproof sunscreen every 2 hours, especially after swimming or hard play. Hats and sunglasses are a good idea as well, and keep those kids hydrated!

Remember, our children learn and mimic what we as parents do, so put on sunscreen yourself and be a good role model.

Finally, remember that a higher SPF doesn’t always mean better protection! All sunscreen needs to be applied frequently to actually work!

Another question I frequently get from parents is about bug spray. The biggest concern today, in addition to bites and itching, is the transmission of disease.

While rare, these illnesses can affect people of all ages, especially children. One of the best ways to prevent bug exposure is to limit growth, so check your property for any standing water and dump it out.

And try to avoid exposure in the evenings when the bugs come out.

When it comes to bug sprays, I get a lot of questions about DEET vs. natural products for protection. While low amounts of DEET are safe for your infant and child, some people prefer to use other products. Remember, just because a product is “natural” doesn’t mean it can’t be toxic, especially if ingested.

When compared head to head, most of the natural products were inferior to those

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containing DEET, especially in length of effectiveness. So whatever product you choose to use, follow the directions and use only what you need. For the most part, the higher the DEET concentration, the longer it lasts. For example, a concentration of 4-5% will last around 90 minutes. Most of the natural products last only 10-20 minutes, so reapply as needed and avoid exposure if possible. Also, don’t use combo bug repellent and sunscreen products because the bug repellent tends to lower the SPF. So enjoy the weather here in Baldwin County, but enjoy it safely. Please refer to cdc.gov and aap.org for further resources and talk to your child’s doctor if you have questions. Have a good day!

Robert L. Rux, M.D. is a Board Certified Pediatrician at Magnolia Springs Pediatrics.

Originally from Mobile, he attended medical school at The University of Alabama School of Medicine (UAB) and completed residency at The Children’s Hospital of Alabama (UAB). He is married to Jaime and has three children, Adler, Walker and Mary McAtee.

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Fairhope Elementary Students Love New iPads from FEEF

Ms. Timi Fields’ second grade class from Fairhope Elementary enjoyed exploring on their new school iPads.

They would like to thank the FEEF program for giving them this wonderful opportunity!

They are so excited about learning about different countries using such apps as Fotopedia and The Gobe.

Pictured, Stephen Laraway is showing off the iPad. Bryce Smith , Jesse Haven, Grace Anne Middleton, and Owen Delaporte are also actively engaged in learning.

Silverhill Elementary Holds Blood Drive

Silverhill Elementary School partnered with Life South Community Blood Centers for a blood drive.

Ice cream was provided by Life South’s donor recruiter, Sommer Smith, for S.E.S. students whose friends and family came to donate blood. 18 units of blood were collected! Pictured enjoying their ice cream are Ceres Decker and Marley Charles.

Orange Beach Elementary 5th Graders Study Acids, Bases, and Indicators

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Mrs. Walker's fifth grade class had fun experimenting with acids and bases as part of a webquest! They did research on their Macbooks to find common indicators, acids, and bases. They then made an indicator solution from cabbage juice to experiment with the way that acids and bases change colors. They reported their findings on a chart and will compose a Keynote Presentation on their Macbooks to show everything that they learned.

Pictured: Blake Fisher, Sara Coker, Trey Jennings.

Gulf Shores Elementary Wins Coastal Kids 2nd Place!

Gulf Shores Elementary 5th graders won 2nd Place at the Coastal Kids Contest.

This event took place in Daphne Alabama and had public and private school 5th graders from Baldwin and Mobile County competing in this Scholar's Bowl Coastal Environmental Contest. This event is sponsored by the Alabama Coastal Foundation and Project Care. Pictured: Malia Elliott, Lisa Patel. Emily Anson, Caroline Murkerjee, Ali Livingston, and Mrs. Searcy (sponsor).

Crown of Character Award at Fairhope Intermediate School

These 5th Graders at Fairhope Intermediate were awarded the Junior Auxiliary of the Eastern Shore’s Crown of Character award for the month of March. Congratulations!

Back Row: Andrew Brower, Alexis Smallwood, Kattie Waits, Emily Trione (JAES Member); Front Row: Olivia Penry, Margaret Nobles, Morgan Blosser, Hannah Earp; Not pictured: Sean Allen Ros. Thank you to our gold level sponsors: Bay Pediatric, Chickfil-A, Coastal Neurological Institute, Restoration Health, Terry Thompson & Thomas Hospital.

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Bayshore Christian School Offering Summer Math and Science Camp

Bayshore Christian School is holding a cool, fun, hands-on, interactive Summer Math and Science Camp With Mr. Brock – Upper School Math Teacher, Mrs. Colbert – Upper School Physical Science and Chemistry Teacher, and Dr. Pursley – Upper School Life Science and Biology Teacher. It will be held for rising 6th – 8th graders July 22 – 26, from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at Bayshore Christian School, 23050 US Highway 98, Fairhope.

The cost is $125 (includes snacks and supplies). Enrollment limited to 16 students. For additional information, please contact Cindy Messinger in the BCS Main Office at 929-0011 or email hpursley@ bayshorechristian.org.

“Beach Scouts” Summer Camp for Girls

All girls in grades 2 -5 are invited to enjoy a Girl Scout summer camp in beautiful Orange Beach at Christian Life Church.

The summer camp will last from June 3rd – 28th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Girl Scout month-long summer camp will be full of fun and exciting STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and leadership activities. Weeks 1 and 3 will cover coastal environment, ecology, and wildlife. Friday field trips for weeks 1 and 3 will consist of a ferry ride to Dauphin Island to visit the Estuarium and Fort Gaines, tour of Gulf States Park, and/or a visit to the Gulf Shores Zoo. Weeks 2 and 4 will be “ Come Fly with Me” which will cover air and space. Friday field trips for weeks 2 and 4 will consist of the Sea, Sands, and Stars Nature Center in Orange Beach and /or a charter bus to the Naval Air Station in Pensacola. Leadership activities will be worked into the curriculum as well as learning Girl Scout Ways. A registration fee of $30 a week includes a membership fee, activities, field trips, badges, and a t-shirt. For more information, please call (251) 344-3330 ext. 1202 Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Jo Bonner Visits Bayshore Christian School

In April, U.S. House Representative, Jo Bonner visited Mr. Elliott's 6th grade class at Bayshore Christian School. Mr. Bonner shared about the role of government in the lives of Americans and took questions from the class. Pictured left to right (front row): Anna Adcock, Lily Sheckells, Jacob Wetzel, Abigail Macaro, Kaitlynn Murrill, Camille Baker, Payton Robinson and Elyse Hayes; (Second row): Mr. Stuart Elliott, Nathan Cook, Joshua Haynes, Aubrey Mund, Evan Doremus, Rep Jo Bonner, Will Northcutt, Lorali Pace, Brooke Long and BCS Headmaster John Howard.

Daphne Elementary Second Grade Has Wild Time at the Zoo

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Mrs. Tina Davis' second grade class from Daphne Elementary enjoyed their trip to the Gulf Shores Zoo!

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W. J. Carroll Intermediate Science Fair Winners

W. J. Carroll Intermediate School is proud to announce the winners in their annual science fair competition. Honorable mentions were given to the following students: Lizzy Burt, Jasmine Breneman, Jordan Cararway and Emma Landers, Jake Cortes, Grace Forrester, Dalaney Goldman, Ashanti Hardin and Ashley Penrod, Elesha Latham, Kenny Lueken, Kelcie Mallett, Casey McNichol, Anna Menefee and Julia Bryant, Alec Walker, Sam Mirabella, Austin Murphy, Drew Parnell, Gaby Salas, Erryia Sappington-Allen, Amaya Smith, Garrett Smith, Jack Taylor, and Makeelie Verhoestra. Left photo, from left are Charity Demonia with her 3rd place entry titled “Bernoulli's Principle”, Connor Johnson with his first place entry titled “Testing the Cooling Effects of the Zeer Pot in Alabama”, and Ashleigh Miller with her second place entry titled “What is With the Sour Face”.

Right photo, from left are Kara Agee with her third place entry titled “That's the Way the Ball Bounces”, Cameron Hoslton with his first place entry titled “Power It Up”, and Brennan Hodges with his second place entry titled “Foil Radio”.

Send School News and photos by the 8th of each month to: lynn@ easternshoreparents.com.

It’s FREE! Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

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W Fairhope H.S. Class Goes to Camp

Fairhope High School's tenth grade International Baccalaureate class spent two days at Camp Beckwith in Fairhope. During these two days the students worked on team building and service learning projects. The Morgan Thompson Foundation donated $500 to fund this trip. Pictured: Front Row (L-R) - Mr. Robbie Trione; Sarah Lewis; Gage Ellis; Lindsay Crone; Second Row (L-R)- Ms. Tara Pool; Ms. Sarah Cooper; Jasmine Casallo; Alysa Gauci; Tara Hicks; Mr. Corey Fancher; Pearl; Third Row (L-R)- Antonio Pena; Joe Milter; James Shleton.

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Congrats to McGill-Toolen Co-Valedictorians and Salutatorian

McGill-Toolen Catholic High School President Fr. Bry Sheilds and Principal Michelle Haas congratulate our co-valedictorians, Morgan Davis and Kevin Kusch and our Salutatorian, Carmen Carlos.

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St. Dominic Student Wins First Place at State Technology Fair

St. Dominic Catholic School students recently participated in the ACTE State Technology Fair held at Auburn University, Montgomery. Students competed in a variety of categories including Video Production and Hardware/Robotics.

Aaron Foster, Grade 4, took first place in Division I Hardware/ Robotics.

CKCS Sixth Graders Trace Their Heritage

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Christ the King Catholic School sixth graders, Ryan Russo, left, and Emily Schaffer, dress the part as they presented their power point heritage projects in history class.

As part of their study of U.S. History and immigration, the students must research their family tree, choose a country of an ancestor's birth, and research its history, customs, and cuisine. Ryan and Emily represented Italy and Spain, respectively.

St. Patrick Catholic School Easter Egg Hunt

At Garrett Park in Robertsdale, students had a great time hunting for eggs at St. Patrick Catholic School's Easter Egg Hunt.

Teachers, chaperones, and students walked from the school to the park and had a great time hunting and playing.

Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

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Miss Spanish Fort High School Pageant

In March, the Class of 2013 presented "Once Upon A Time"--the Miss Spanish Fort High School Pageant. Winners were chosen for each grade level based on the contestant's GPA, a judge's interview, personal expression, and poise and appearance. Winners for the evening were Merrit Cayson, Freshman Beauty; Anna Kirkham, Sophomore Beauty; Kristine McCoy, Junior Beauty; Emily Grant, Miss Congeniality; Savannah Merold, Miss Spanish Fort High School 2013; and Marcus Walton was voted as Mr. Spanish Fort High School 2013. Congratulations to the beautiful and talented freshman and sophomore girls who represented Spanish Fort High School with such elegance and grace in the pageant. Featured from left to right: (back row) Merritt Cayson, Alyssa Winters, Riley Bates, Ashlie Cline, Madison Copeland, Jordan Riekof, Sarah Carrico. Bottom row (L to R) Anna Kirkham, Regan Sims, Carlie Cline.

Cold Snap Yogurt Rewards Positive Behavior

Cold Snap Yogurt recognized Fairhope Middle School 8th grade students, Caroline Smith and Logan Cruz, as their March Positive Behavior Students of the Month. Their names were selected at random from all of the FMS students that received a positive office referral during the month. Positive office referrals are given by teachers, staff, and administrators to acknowledge students that exhibit exemplary behavior throughout the school day.

The selected students received a gift certificate for yogurt. Cold Snap Yogurt is located at 84 Plantation Pointe in Fairhope. Pictured, from left to right, are Caroline Smith, Mrs. Angie Hall, FMS principal, and Logan Cruz.

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Spanish Fort Elementary Student Named State Finalist in Google Design Contest

Spanish Fort Elementary 3rd grader, Ridley Varden, is the State of Alabama finalist for her Doodle for Google Design Contest in the K-3 division, and advanced to New York City to compete with 9 other division winners from different states. The winner of the Doodle 4 Google contest will have his/ her doodle featured on the US Google homepage and will receive a $30,000 college scholarship. Also, the school they attend will receive $50,000 for technology. Ridley is shown with her drawing, Google Ballerinas.

Orange Beach Elementary Receives Peer Helper Training from High Schoolers

In April, the Gulf Shores High School Peer Helpers came to Sea, Sand, and Stars to train the Orange Beach Elementary School Pineapple Peer Helpers and Gulf Shores Dolphin Allies Peer Helpers. Training included team building activities and basic mediation skills at the elementary level. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Peer Helpers in training were from the 4th, 5th and 6th grade. The elementary students extend a huge thank you to the Gulf Shores High students and Amy Mackenzie, Peer Helper Coordinator for Gulf Shores High School.

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CKCS Collects Food for Catholic Social Services

Christ the King Catholic School student council members help school volunteer, Mr. Earl Boyce, load his truck with a collection of food for delivery to Catholic Social Services on Wednesday. The collection was the school outreach for the month of March.

Spanish Fort H.S. Wins Awards at District Key Club Convention

The Alabama District held its annual convention in April in Birmingham. Alabama has over 160 High School Key Clubs. There were over 400 High School students in attendance with adult leaders from all over Alabama. The convention is designed to recognize service for the last year and to build enthusiasm for (1) service to our home, school, and community and (2) to serve our Nation and God. All High Schools were recognized for service and support in eleven different categories including service projects, participation, hours of service, donations and promoting the Kiwanis family values. Spanish Fort High School has 49 members. SFHS Key Club won specific awards in 7 of the eleven categories.

Awards and recognitions included: 1. Project Eliminate fund raising through Trick-ortreat for Unicef over $900; 2. Awarded Distinguished Club designation; 3. Key Club Poster 3rd place; 4. Key Club DVD 2nd place; 5. Major Emphasis Award (for efforts, hours and donations of service for Relay for Life 2012) 3rd place award; 6. Single Service Award (for efforts, hours and donations of service for Eliminate) 2nd place award; 7.

Overall achievement and functions within the club 1st place. SFHS Key Club is one of the top clubs in Alabama. While we were not designated as the top club in Alabama it was easy to recognize SFHS as in the top 10 of all the clubs in Alabama. SFHS Key Club has 49 active members and numerous students add to the service, giving, and community throughout the year. We recognize that it is not just the members of SFHS Key Club, because students gave donations, time, and volunteerism that culminated in the recognition that the Club received. Thanks goes out to the Teachers, Administrators, and most importantly to the students at SFHS for winning many significant awards from Key Club International. Hollis Chapman was elected to the governing board of the District of Alabama representing 6 of the area High Schools as Lieutenant Governor for Division (Baldwin County).

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

F Robertsdale Elementary Presents March Students of the Month

Robertsdale Elementary is pleased to announce the March Students of the Month.

These students were selected based on character, work ethic and leadership qualities.

Students shown in the picture in no particular order include: Alejandra Espinoza, Alex Prather, Peyton McCurdy, Marley Sledge, Peyton Dallas, Logan Wallace, Jordan Standfield, Savannah Scott, Karleigh O’Brien, Chelsea Casey, Holly Steelman, Ethan Posey, Victoria Hernandez, Anna Belle Watson, Evan Lassitter, Brent Weaver, Julia Wofford, Emma Ellison, Gracey Riley, Rayden Ashcraft, Maria Hernandez, Jamie Kennedy, Grayson Coggins, Meagan Magglioli, Kaylee Hadley, Carlos Galnares, Kohl Hammac, Kade Wagner, Jasmine Williams, Chase Bowyer, DJ Hunt, Emily Crandall, Kelsie Brownlow, Ashleigh Sanspree, Shelah Venegas, Ashanti Betts-Cook, Maddy Ard, Christyn Reville, Hannah Johnson, Ian Boutwell, Nick Parker, Roslyn Hadley, Carrie York.

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Send School News and photos by the 8th of each month to: lynn@ easternshoreparents.com. It’s FREE!

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Fairhope Intermediate School Students Work on Robotics Tasks

Collin Matter and Brian Sledge collaborate to complete Lego Robotics tasks during their GEP class.

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Fairhope Elementary 1st Grader Wins Spirit Stick

Carley Mae Parker, a first grade student in Mrs. Hope Sawyer’s class at Fairhope Elementary School, was the first recipient of the school spirit stick. A spirit stick is awarded to a student that is nominated by the faculty who exhibits friendly, caring, and positive behaviors around campus. Carley Mae is a sweet spirited young lady, who always has a smile and a kind word to share. She definitely follows the Golden Rule by nature.

She is a positive influence on her peers and enjoys being around others. Carley Mae is helpful and wants to please. Everyone loves to see her coming as she brings sunshine to your day just by being around you. Her “bouncy” personality will make you smile!

Congratulations Carley Mae on being the first winner of the FES Spirit Stick. The spirit stick was donated by Mr. Jimmy Ellis, a faithful volunteer at FES and signed by both Mr. Jimmy and the principal Mr. Beasley.

Daphne East First Grade Students Learn About Measurement

First grade students in Terrie Weinacker’s class at Daphne East Elementary School recently studied measurement in math. As a culminating activity, students traveled in small groups to different stations around the room. The students used different nonstandard measurement tools including cubes, popsicle sticks, and paper clips to measure the height of a sheep. After measuring with all the tools, students discussed their data and showed understanding of why different tools resulted in different numbers. Pictured (L to R): Ruthie Kate Mackin, Monserrat Guzman, Noah Overstreet, Laura Callister.

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

St. Patrick Catholic School Wins 1st Place in Coastal Kids Quiz

Congratulations to Mrs. Cote and the Coastal Kids Quiz team at St. Patrick Catholic School for winning First Place! They competed in honor of Carlin Davis, a 6th grade student who is battling cancer, and will give the trophy to her. Pictured are (L to R) Jonathan Doughman, Hannah Gay, Llyod LaConsay, Austin Urbin, Kelly Cote (teacher), and Mary Kate Anthony.

Fairhope High School Students Launch Sports Group

Olivia Helms and Katie Drummond, IB students at Fairhope High School, launched their self-initiated CAS project this year. CAS is the creativity, action, and service component of the IB Diploma program.

It is required that students enrolled in this rigorous program create a self-initated activity. Olivia and Katie formed the FHS Sports Group and have seen great success with it. Weekly, several students meet to play a variety of games such as kickball, basketball, soccer or volleyball. Parents are assisting with supervision and support. Pictured in no particular order are Nizar Tarabein, Riley Boles, Marissa Friduss, Karl Hakmiller, Georgia Smith, Hannah Newsom, Katie Drummond, Olivia Helms, Maria Parsons, Zane Drummond, Mary Grace Bedwell, Will Parsons, Austin Pegues, Rachel Ball, Caitlin Nowlin, Claire Reichley, Isabel Mosely, and Greyson Piesco.

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Fairhope Middle School Invades Environmental Center

Fairhope Middle School students recently had the opportunity to attend the McDowell Environmental Center in Nauvoo, Alabama.

A total of 35 students and 6 adults spent three days experiencing the center’s activities and exploring the surrounding area. Pictured, in no particular order, are the following participants: Jacob Astralaga, Patrick Bauer, Grace Bishop, Sawyer Connick, Matt Eddy, Lauren Fendley, Ansley Howard, Adrian Johnson, Andon Kingry, Makayla Lane, Justine Quinley, Anna Stewart, Lori Walker, Emily Ward, Noah Baker, Braeden Capps, Daulton Capps, Bo Coleman, Christopher Corbett, Delaney Davis, Will Felton, Cullen Freeman, Katie Gafford, Sam Jones, Katie Laraway, John Paul Ledbetter, John Lee, Marcus Manning, Meagan Manson, Matthew Sean Robertson, Evans Smith, Sam String, Caroline Toombs, Noah Upshaw, Ethyn West, Mrs. Kristen Laraway, Mrs. Lee Manson, Mrs. Amanda Stewart, and Mrs. Carriann Toombs. Not pictured are Mrs. Janice Kinard, 7th grade FMS science teacher, and Mrs. Donna Ferrill, 7th grade FMS math teacher.

Bayshore Christian School Field Day Fun

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Mrs. French's 5th grade class engages in a tug-of-war with Mrs. Little's 5th grade class during Bayshore Christian School's 2013 Field Day activities.

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Newton Elementary Striking Out Cancer

Students at J. Larry Newton School had an opportunity to help "Strike Out Cancer" by donating $1.00 to the American Cancer Society. For a donation, students were allowed to wear jeans and a hat to school. Led by cancer survivor, Kayla Campbell, Newton students raised over $300 for the American Cancer Society. Pictured are Kayla Campbell and Patrice Krueger, principal.

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Science Professor Visits W.J. Carroll Class for Dissection Lab After completing a book study on ‘Hoot’, a novel that addresses protecting the endangered burrowing owl habitat from the development of a pancake house, W. J. Carroll Intermediate School sixth grade students researched the burrowing owl to learn about their behaviors. They completed a virtual owl pellet dissection to identify the prey of their owl in preparation for a visit from Dr. Edward Shaw Jr., a professor of elementary science education at the University of South Alabama. Dr. Shaw spent the day with the students in an owl pellet dissection lab identifying the bones of various rodents and birds which are the diet of the owl. Pictured, Brennan Hodges and Nick Shumaker cooperatively work on completing their owl pellet dissection.

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

O Spanish Fort H.S. Library Club Holds Pizza and Game Night

In March, the Spanish Fort Student Library Club held a "Pizza and Game Night!" Students met in the library media center from 6 – 10 p.m. and enjoyed fellowship and fun. Hannah Jones, the club's president, brought in her Wii gaming system. Students played Wii Dance and Wii Sports. They also enjoyed a game of Monopoly, Connect Four, Guess Who, and Ninja. Students enjoyed Little Caesar's pizza, Crazy Bread, cokes, chips, and candy. The club is sponsored by Mrs. Murphy, the Library Media Specialist at Spanish Fort High School.

Pictured from L to R around the table are: Elizabeth Hanlon, Mary Oubre, Morgan Fabber, Alex Moreno, Savannah Vereen, and Alex Moore.

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McGill-Toolen’s Spring Concert McGill-Toolen Band Director Sean Noah directs his students in their annual spring concert.

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Orange Beach Elementary Students Grow in their Knowledge of Plants

Second grade students in Mrs. Debbie Holder's class studied science & celebrated spring by planting seeds. In second grade, students learned the structure of plants & the function of each part. Students enhanced their understanding of the structure of plants by planting seeds and caring for them as they sprouted & grew. Students were responsible for keeping the seeds & plants watered, allowing them to see how the water cycle impacts the production of crops. Pictured watering his plant is William Welhaf.

Outstanding Fairhope Middle School Student Recognized by NJHS

Fairhope Middle School recently held its National Junior Honor Society induction for new members. New members must have a 3.5 cumulative grade point average and excel in the areas of character, leadership, service, and citizenship. There were 9 new 8th grade members and 137 new 7th grade members inducted during the ceremony. NJHS, under the sponsorship of Mrs. Melody Early, Mrs. Erica Lee, and Mrs. Tonya Harrelson, is a working organization whose members help serve the students at FMS by volunteering at school functions and purchasing instructional items that benefit the entire student body.

Each year during the NJHS induction, the faculty honors a current 8th grade member with the Betty Duck award. This year the award was presented to Jack Flowers in recognition of his exemplary behavior and outstanding leadership qualities. Pictured, from left to right with the NJHS sponsors, is the 2013 recipient: Mrs. Early, Jack Flowers, Mrs. Harrelson, and Mrs. Lee. Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Volunteers Help Beautify W. J. Carroll

W. J. Carroll Intermediate School’s PTO organization has geared up for Phase I of their campus beautification project. National Elementary Honor Society students worked with volunteers and PTO officers to create planters for the school entrances and a flower garden by the gym. Pictured pausing for a moment before they get back to planting are, in no particular order, Lillian Carlton, Aspen Pitt, Mrs. Dana Goodman, Stephen Walding, Caleb Dyche, Gavin Morvant, Mr. LeBarren East, Mrs. Jessica Pharr, Emma Landers, Trent Battle, Carianne Brown, and Emma Morvant.

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Fairhope IB Seniors Celebrate Paper Sendoff

The Fairhope High School IB seniors celebrated their papers being completed and sent off for scoring with a Paper Party luncheon. Catered by Chaufees and provided by FIBA, the IB juniors and seniors along with their teachers enjoyed a barbecue lunch. After lunch, the seniors competed boys against girls in a guessing game to learn where their papers will be scored. Papers in each subject are sent to a variety of countries around the world for grading.

Pictured is IB junior Mary Grace Bedwell directing the seniors in the guessing game.

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Silverhill Elementary Second Graders Visit Nature Preserve

ALL PARKS. ALL RIDES.

Second grade students from Silverhill Elementary School recently toured Graham Creek Nature Preserve. Students enjoyed visiting the pitcher plant bog and participating in a wetland scavenger hunt. The field trip was funded through a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Jo Hellmich, a second grade teacher at Silverhill Elementary is the grant facilitator.

Pictured are Nate Lochrico and Keagan Kucera.

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Fairhope Elementary Class Receives Gift of Headphones

With the help of their awesome parents and Donorschoose .org, Mrs. Charlotte Norris’ second grade class at Fairhope Elementary was able to purchase wireless headphones for their listening center. What a great addition to their classroom and so easy to use. The students and teacher appreciate their parents’ contribution along with Donorschoose match that made this possible. They also received five sets of chapter books on CDs to read along with, which makes transitioning to chapter books an easier task.

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St. Patrick Catholic School’s Alabama State Technology Winners

Students from St. Patrick Catholic School in Robertsdale traveled to AUM in Montgomery to compete in the ACTE State Technology Fair; only students placing first or second in the regional fair were qualified for the state competition.

Congratulations to first place state winners Anna Bulman, Rory Dembowski, Marideth Hayes, and Shannon McAuliffe, with their group Video Production, "Childhood Cancer: Best Friends". Taking second place, the team of Mason Davis and Naim Del Angel, with their Multimedia project, "Attack of Pearl Harbor.

Placing third were Lilli Colburn and Abigail Redlich with their Video Production, "Abraham Lincoln". Congratulations to Lori Pressley, SPCS Technology teacher, and students for their accomplishments! Pictured (L to R) Lori Pressley, Shannon McAuliffe, Marideth Hayes, Anna Bulman, Rory Dembowski, Naim Del Angel, Mason Davis, Sr. Margaret Harte - Principal, Lilli Colburn, (Abigail Redlich not pictured), Anna Barragan, and Sarah Catherine Caldwell. All students pictured won 1st or 2nd in the ACTE regional competition at FSCC.

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Art at Fairhope Intermediate

Pictured are Fairhope Intermediate School fifth grade students finishing Japanese Cherry Blossom paintings during art class.

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Daphne East First Graders Learn About Animals

First grade students in Kristyn Cain’s class at Daphne East Elementary recently learned about animal groups. During their study of birds, students went outside and gathered materials to create their own bird nest. They then used clay to form ‘eggs’ to place in their nests. Showing her nest is Madeleine Gann. Julian Thomas works on his nest in the background.

Send School News and photos by the 8th of each month to: lynn@ easternshoreparents.com. It’s FREE!

CKCS Field Day Winners Present Check for Seminarians

Christ the King Catholic School held its second annual Field Day Fun Run, donating proceeds from the run’s t-shirt sales to support the seminarians from the Archdiocese of Mobile. Presenting a check in the amount of $1375 to Rev. Alex Valladares, Director of Vocations for the Archdiocese, are from left, CKCS principal Mr. Max Crain, Carolene Fouty, female race winner, Macabe Faulkner, male race winner, and CKCS Coach Barbara Collinsworth. The one mile run took place in downtown Daphne to kick off field day events at the school.

Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Bayside’s Newspaper Places Second in High School Newspaper Contest

Bayside Academy’s newspaper, BAToday, placed second overall in the USA and Mobile Register South Alabama High School Newspaper Contest. Layout editor Danielle Watts placed first in layout and design and second in feature story, news editor John Stuart placed first in sports story and third in news story, KK Hill placed second in photography and Sarah Ezell placed third in editorials. Congratulations to all of the staff for an excellent effort this year! Pictured: Left to Right front row: Danielle Watts, Jeriel Ng, John Stuart, Left to right back row: Mackenzie Ross, Ali Mulla, Sarah Ezell, Hunter Jones, KK Hill.

Silverhill Elementary School Students of the Month of April

Silverhill Elementary School’s students of the month for April were recognized for respect. Pictured in no particular order are Dillion Christian, Cadence Peturis, Nalia Dewalt, Makayla Guzman, Olivia McNeil, Jeremiah Egebrecht, Courtney Oden, Jose Garcia, Abby Larkin, Lane Waguespack, Katelyn Kinard, Justice Palmer, Cordelia Welch, Camilla Hoover, Holly Wilson, Johnny Frego, Lillianna Betz, Cody Mooney, Jamarcius Graves and Courtney McInnis. Not pictured, Cora Beth Howell.

Gulf Shores Elementary 2nd Graders are Summer-Ready!

Gulf Shores Elementary School second graders (l to r) Iris Smith, Jackson Maloy and Carson Harris are ready to hit the beach and soak up some sun!

Homeschooler Places First on Literacy Exam at State Technology Fair

Zachary Stewart placed 1st on the IT Literacy exam, level 2 at the Alabama Council for Technology in Education (ACTE) State Technology Fair at Auburn UniversityMontgomery in April.

Zachary, age 11, is a homeschooled 5th grader and member of Baldwin Christian Home Educators Association.

He previously placed 1st at the Regional ACTE Tech Fair - IT Literacy Level 2 - held at Faulkner State Community College in March.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

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Daphne East Students Learn About Recycling

Mrs. Tuveson’s second grade class at Daphne East Elementary combined the importance of recycling with the study of American symbols. Each student used recycled materials found around the home to create famous American symbols. Among the projects were a plastic bottle Statue of Liberty, a cereal box American flag complete with rolled up tin foil stars, a red Solo cup Liberty Bell, and a paper airplane Bald Eagle.

The students are Sydney Williams, Finn Sheils, Evans Bankston, Kaeli Stevens, Lauren Walker, Madison Bankston, Anna Camille Gervais, Ethan Buck, Jaden Bentley, Chase Tews, Briley Wiggins, Charles Martin Bishop, Olivia Szymanski, Nate Robinson, Maddy Moore, Jacob Elwell, Sierra Smith, Tenecia Sledge, Bradley Helms, Jarred Fralick.

Newton Students Enjoy Tasty Biscuits for Testing

Students in Mrs. Jenny Breazeale and Ms. Afton Johnson's class chowed down on biscuits from the Biscuit King before taking the state ARMT+ Test.

"Wow! That biscuit was tasty!" stated Thomas Pacey. The students really enjoyed this delicious treat generously provided by Mr. Willie from the Biscuit King. Students from left to right: Kyler Morrisette, Suezanna Hale, Tyler Walter, Nicole Lister, and Tristan Lister.

Bayside Academy’s National Junior Honor Society

Bayside Academy is proud to announce the 2013 National Junior Honor Society Inductees.

This year’s inductees include Shelby Barton, Kathryn Beaman, Mary Catherine Branyon, Grace Compton, Wyatt Cooper, Luke Dobbins, David Ham, Paige Hammele, Christopher Houston, Mary Blakely Jones, Isabella LeBlanc, Emily McCrory, Charles McDonald, Natalie Melton, Emily Miller, Mary Kaitlyn Morris, Ashley Rella, Jacob Richey, Bryce Roush, Andrew Smith, Parker Watts, Mary Frances West, David Williams, and Caroline Young.

Congratulations to all the inductees. Pictured; counterclockwise: Natalie Melton, Paige Hammele, Emily Miller, Blakely Jones, Emily McCrory, Mary Catherine Branyon, Shelby Barton, Isabella LeBlanc, Mary Kaitlyn Morris, Mary Frances West, Chris Houston, David Ham, Parker Watts, Jacob Richey, Charles McDonald, David Williams, Andrew Smith and Jacob Averitt. Front row: Kate Beaman Ashley Rella, Caroline Young and Grace Compton.

Not pictured: Wyatt Cooper, Luke Dobbins and Bryce Roush.

Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Avoiding the

Entitlement Trap Raising Responsible Kids in a Consumption Crazed Culture

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by Malia Jacobson

We all love giving to our children; there’s nothing like witnessing the joy on a child’s face when he receives a coveted toy, a favorite meal, or the latest gadget.

But parental generosity has an ugly downside. Experts warn that by giving children too much, too often, parents can encourage an inflated sense of entitlement that snowballs into demands like, “But I want it…now!”

In today’s abundant, instant-gratification society, parents must be intentional about raising children who don’t have a sense of entitlement, says Karen Deerwester, parenting coach and author of The Entitlement-Free Child: Raising Confident Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

and Responsible Kids in a “Me, Mine, Now!” Culture. “Our entitlement climate promotes quick fixes and easy answers that sabotage effective parenting,” she says.

Want to raise a responsible child who doesn’t demand constant gratification?

Read on for expert tips on curbing entitlement, from toddlerhood to the teen years.

Early Years 0-5

(Waiting Game) Over-entitlement begins in toddlerhood, because two-year-olds are naturally self-interested—it’s normal and natural for them to be concerned with “me, mine, and now.” It’s when parents actually give in to 42

tots’ “now” demands that entitlement can begin to build. “If we constantly overdo and rescue children, they don’t learn to live with those uncomfortable feelings of wanting something and not always getting it,” Deerwester notes.

One key to self-control is the ability to wait, a skill strongly correlated with future success. In the famous “marshmallow experiment” first conducted at Stanford University in 1972, researchers offered children a choice between receiving one marshmallow now or two marshmallows after a short wait. The researchers found that children who were able to delay gratification had more success later in life.

“Asking a young child to sit still for a few Advertising: 251-929-2099

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minutes so you can talk to the doctor is age-appropriate and builds those waiting skills,” says Deerwester.

Elementary Years 6-10

(School Rules) Often, the first clues of over-entitled behavior in school-aged children come via a phone call from the child’s teacher or school. “Parents will hear from their child’s teacher that the child has difficulty following directions or challenges authority a lot,” says Barbara Lowe-Greenlee, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist in private practice in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

These red flags can be signs of a child used to getting things her own way—now.

While it’s healthy for children to be assertive, challenging authority on a regular basis signals a problem. Parents can encourage children to question authority in appropriate ways, like asking questions of a doctor at a well-child checkup. “But sometimes, we need to tell children that they need to simply follow the rules, as long as the authority figure isn’t asking them to do anything wrong or illegal,” says Lowe-Greenlee.

Tween and Teen Years 11-18

(Giving Back) It’s not too late to dial down entitled behavior in a possessions-obsessed teen or older child. But adolescents will feel rightfully jilted if parents implement too many changes, too quickly. If parents have always given in to a child’s wants instead of teaching them to deal with conflicts and mistakes, they need to help teens build those skills, says Deerwester. “It’s about starting where you are.”

One way to encourage a less selfcentered worldview? Encourage teens’ natural altruism by asking them to think of ways to contribute to their community.

When tweens and teens understand that they can make a worthwhile contribution, their life may stop revolving around the iGizmo, fancy vacation or designer jeans.

“Tweens and teens should understand that we all have a responsibility to our family and our community,” says LoweGreenlee. “And we don’t just take, we give back.” ESP

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Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health and parenting journalist and mom. Her most recent book is Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades.

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Dig This: Get the Dirt on Digging Toys!

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

The smooth plane of undisturbed sand, the soft terrain of dirt and clay, the hint of something hidden just beneath the surface of soft sandstone are all a siren’s call for little hands to dig in! From both a curiosity and a creativity standpoint, dirt, clay and sand are natural mediums that compel children to scrape, carve and shift it somewhere else, shape it somehow different. Whether they are moving mounds around, excavating a hidden wonder or simply getting the bottom of things, the following items will help your kids dig in fast!

by Paige Gardner Smith

Naturally Playful Sand Table

Diggin’ Rigs Grinding Gravel Yard Set

The Naturally Playful Sand Table features a self-contained elevated play area that is perfect for standing toddlers and seated children to belly-up to for every kind of sand play. The removable cover not only protects the sand from curious cats, but is also molded with roadways and tracks for extra vehicle play. Included are two shovels and a cup for instant excavating. The elevation makes it easy to sweep under and ideal for decks and patios. It’s also more accessible for physically challenged kids who may not be able to enjoy a traditional in-ground sandbox. And no more sandy bottoms right before you walk out the door (you’re on your own with sandy hands)!

On the level with children’s comfort and access, the Step 2 Sand Table brings the action right where kids can get busy!

For kids accustomed to pressing Play-Doh into balls, the Diggin’ Rigs Grinding Gravel Yard Set will let them deconstruct the dough into gravel for building a whole new project. Play-Doh can be pushed into the grinder, then just turn the crank and it begins to produce “gravel” that can be transported anywhere on the job site (play mat) for your child’s big construction project! Chuck the Dump Truck can ferry the dough to and “gravel” from the grinder. The set includes Chuck the Dump Truck, grinder, grinder stand, gravel yard base and two cans of Play-Doh modeling compound so digging, grinding, hauling and building can break ground immediately!

Big Dig Ride-on Working Crane

Egypt Excavation Dig Kit

Sometimes you just have to put yourself in the driver’s seat on a big project. For kids with a sizable sandbox, sandy ground or garden area, the Big Dig Ride-on Crane offers them a realistic experience of working handles that control the digging action of the scoop. The seat can accommodate weights up to 60 pounds and rotates 360 degrees allowing kids to move and master their entire construction perimeter. With sturdy steel construction, it requires minimal assembly and can hold up well in all weather. It’s also great for developing hand-eye coordination as kids move sand, loose dirt and even snow where it needs to go!

For the older delicate digger, there is nothing more rewarding than chipping and carving away the sediment that stands between you and your discovery. The Egypt Excavation Dig Kit offers a matrix of sand plaster that hides within two treasures that recall ancient Egyptian civilization. Each kit may contain a variety of objects including a bust of Nefertiti, King Tut’s mask, sarcophagi, figurines or statues. Using the included chisel and brush, kids can dig into the block and, with patience, discover what’s beneath the surface. Perfect of the aspiring archeologist or field historian who would like to experience the careful work required to coax the earth to give up her oldest secrets!

(Step 2)

(Play-Doh/Hasbro)

(Reeves/Breyer)

(Geo Central)

Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Q.

I’m following your plan, and currently I have $14,000 in my emergency fund.

What are essentials for three to six months of expenses?

A.

Basically, you should ask yourself this question: What would it take to operate my household for a month? There are several different things that could be classified as “essentials,” but if you take those things and multiply the number by three, four, five or six, you’ll see how much money you need to have a fully loaded emergency fund of three to six months of expenses. This is Baby Step 3 in my plan.

Some people get really technical about exactly how many months of expenses they need to save in this range.

And that’s okay. You can take a little time to evaluate things before moving on to Baby Step 4, which is investing 15 percent of your household income into Roth IRAs and other pre-tax retirement plans.

Believe me, it’s a great feeling to have a big pile of cash sitting there just for a

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

rainy day. You don’t want to go nuts and make it so big that you sacrifice retirement or other important aspects of your life, but after a point you shouldn’t be too concerned whether you have three months or six months of expenses—or somewhere in between—saved just for emergencies.

Having a nice emergency fund, along with no debt, creates a wonderful sense of financial peace!

Q. I’d like to start investing in mutual funds, but I have no idea how they work.

Could you explain about them please?

A.

First of all, don’t rely solely on my answer here. You should never invest in anything you don’t fully understand. Before you do anything else, sit down with a good mutual fund broker, someone who has the heart of a teacher, who will help you find what’s best for you and your specific situation and goals.

Simply put, a mutual fund—if it’s a stock mutual fund—is a group of 90–200

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stocks. If it’s a growth stock mutual fund, then it’s a group of 90–200 growth stocks. Analysts buy the stocks they think will increase in price and sell the stocks they feel will go down in price. When the analysts buy growth stocks, it turns it into a growth stock mutual fund. If they buy bonds instead, it becomes a bond mutual fund. Several people put money into these groups, and that’s where you get the name “mutual fund.” They’re mutually funded.

These types of investments are much safer than single stock investing because your money is spread across several different stocks. Plus, you’ve got people who know what they’re doing picking the stocks. My advice would be to take a hard look at mutual funds that have been out there for 10 to 20 years and have a good track record for a long period of time. I have one that has been open since 1934, and that kind of longevity and stability gives me confidence that over time they’ll be just fine!

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Simple Celebrations from A to Z

by Heather Lee Leap

vite guests with a welcome letter to Hogwarts or break out the top hats and card tricks.

Bowling: With or

without bumpers, it means casual fun that keeps everyone moving. On site food allows parents to relax – just bring the cake to celebrate your next big day.

Clowning around: Face paint, juggling

and dressing up. Kids can create their own acts and entertain one another.

Donation to a cause: In lieu of gifts, request that guests contribute funds to an organization the birthday child is passionate about. Develop a theme around the cause, such as a pet theme for an animal shelter donation.

Extraterrestrial explorations: Is there life on Mars? Plan a space-themed party for your future astronaut.

Fairy tale theater: Raid the dress-up

bin for costumes, clear a space for a stage and let the kids enact their favorite stories.

Simple, familiar tales mean everyone Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

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Struggling to come up with a fresh idea for your child’s next party? Bigger isn’t always better, and a party shouldn’t cut into your college savings fund.

Get creative, be inspired and make one or more of the following ideas your own.

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26 Themes for Your Child’s Next Birthday knows the story and can embellish at will without a script.

Golf, in miniature: Get outside and

laugh as your group makes its way around the mini-golf green.

Hawaiian luau: Eat pineapple and serve fruit punch in tall glasses with tiny umbrellas. Find leis at your local party store.

Ice Cream truck: Did you know you

can arrange to have them come directly to your home? Call them up, set a date and time and let the birthday child have first pick for a treat.

Jammies: If you’ve been putting off that

much-requested sleepover, now is the time to say yes to pizza, popcorn and late-night giggling.

Kitchen creations: Seek out local cook-

ing classes for children. Most locations that teach classes also offer party packages.

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relaxed party, bring cake and a picnic to your neighborhood playground.

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Music for all: Create shakers or rain

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Local park fun: For a low-budget,

sticks from beans, paper tubes and masking tape. Dance to favorite tunes, sing and march around the block with your creations and other rhythm instruments.

Nature hike: Have a slice of cake at the trailhead and then explore the landscape.

Party favors can include bug boxes and small magnifying glasses.

Obstacle course: Get creative in your back yard with hula hoops, old cardboard boxes, benches and anything else you have lying around. Kids can climb, jump and crawl over, under and around. Time their circuit as part of a friendly competition.

Older kids will have as much fun running the course as they will creating and improving it.

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Puppets: Make sock puppets with but-

ton eyes or design simple stick puppets.

Read a short story or fable for inspiration and kids can work together to create their own puppet show.

Quidditch anyone? All you need is a

wild imagination, hula hoops for goals, a soccer ball for the quaffle, smaller soft balls for bludgers and a speedy runner for the snitch.

Rock climbing or bouldering: Head to a rock gym to learn new skills together and get moving.

Science experiments: Instead of the

usual party crafts, take chances, get messy and explore the laws of physics or the states of matter. Find books of experiments at your local library.

Tea party: Fancy cups and fancy food are just the beginning. Dress up, wear hats and invite guests to bring their favorite doll or teddy bear to tea.

Uniquely you: What does your child’s dream party look like? How can the theme reflect something special about what is important to your child or your family. Make it happen.

Volunteer for a cause: One child volunteering at the food bank or animal shelter with her family may not feel like she is accomplishing much. Invite a group of her friends to join her for a work party and her gift will grow exponentially.

Water fun: Rent the party room at your local pool for a splashing good time.

X-men and friends: A superheroes theme can include capes, masks and feats of daring do, well-supervised, of course.

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Yard games: Time to teach your kids

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Zip line: You know your kids have been asking for this. If you have the space, install one in your back yard and let the flying begin. ESP

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and their friends all the old favorites.

Croquet, badminton, bocce and horseshoes will keep a crowd entertained and active all afternoon.

Heather Lee Leap is a freelance writer and mom.

Her favorite parties involve active kids, ingenuity and ice cream.

Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

2013 Eastern Shore

Cakes Andree’s Wine, Cheese & Things

251-928-8863, 403 Fairhope Ave., Fairhope www.andreesonline.com.

Birthday and special event cakes of all sizes and a wide variety of cake flavors, fillings and icings.

Couture Cakes

251-626-9895, 1905 Main Street, Daphne Couture Cakes can custom design the perfect cake for all occasions and themes. Visit us on Facebook to see pictures of just a few of our wonderful creations.

Edible Arrangements

251-621-9413, www.ediblearrangements.com.

Looking for something different? Edible Arrangements offers delicious fresh fruit arrangements, baskets, bouquets and other delightful tasty gifts. Visit our website to see the wonderful children’s selection, Kids at Heart complete with Disney, Sesame Street, Hello Kitty and Disney Princess arrangements.

Great American Cookie Company

251-621-7977, 30500 Hwy 181, Suite 810, Spanish Ft, www.greatamericancookies.com We do all kinds of cookie cakes for all occasions. We bake fresh every day. Say it with a cookie cake!

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Party Planner

JAM Cakery

251-599-7977, www.jamcakery.com JAM Cakery is a custom sweets and cake shop with a simple goal of creating unique, one of a kind designs for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, showers and any other occasions. We strive to combine the taste and artistry to make our customer’s event more memorable. Each cake and dessert is freshly baked, never frozen, custom decorated, and delicious. We pride ourselves on attention to detail, creativity, and personalized customer service for all of our orders, no matter big or small. We believe that “when cake matters,” JAM Cakery can help create an unforgettable experience and add a distinct touch to your special event.

Little Cake Shop

251-621-9097, 10198 US Hwy 31, Spanish Fort.

No matter what the occasion Little Cake Shop can create the perfect cake for you.

Marble Slab Creamery

251-625-2022, Eastern Shore Centre, Spanish Fort www.marbleslab.com; Marble Slab Creamery can help turn ay event into a special occasion. Whether you want a Sundae Bar, Portable Slab* or an ice cream cake to match your theme, you can count on us to dish out the freshest, best tasting ice cream anywhere. The Portable Slab is where we bring The

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Slab to you. It is like having a Marble Slab Creamery store brought to you complete with mixins, waffle cones and more!

Something Sweet

251-621-2253 - 1712 Main Street, Daphne, Something Sweet offers over 22 different kinds of cupcakes along with a large variety of other treats such as popcorn creations, bar cookies and cakes.

Twist

251-626-3664, Eastern Shore Ctr across from Pottery Barn. Perfect for birthdays, weddings, and any other special occasion - or stop by and choose from any of our daily flavors for an amazing treat! Twist Cupcakes is committed to providing fresh, madefrom-scratch cupcakes and frostings each day. We use high-quality ingredients like Valrhona Cocoa, Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla, and Callebaut Chocolate. Our Cake Bites are made using those delicious cupcakes and frostings and then dipped in beautiful chocolates and decorated. Each day we have a selection of about 17 flavors of ready-to-purchase cupcakes and 5 flavors of cake bites. We have almost 70 flavors total! We accept custom orders for birthdays, baby and bridal showers, weddings, and any special occasion. Cupcakes stands available for rental. Come by and see us!

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Invitations/Décor/ Paper Goods Miller’s Grand Events

251-625-4910, 25341 State Highway 181, Daphne www.millersgrandevents.com Whether you’re planning a catered affair or corporate event, a wedding reception, fund raiser or a graduation party, you’ve come to the right place. With our expanding inventory of rental products, expert event coordinators and seasonal retail party supplies, we can offer you a total event package from one convenient source.

Polka Dot Princess, The

www.thepolkadotprincess.com.

The Polka Dot Princess has over 2,000 different invitations that you can choose from. Most of our invitations are $1 or less, and we print all invitations at no extra charge.Our website features custom designed invitations for all occasions.

Stampin’ Up

251-454-9545, www.jackiebarfield.stampinup.net Have you always wanted to create your own one-of-a kind, hand-made invitations, announcements or thankyou notes? Call Jackie withStampin’ Up to help you with all of your special occasions. Also ask about our private parties and private group classes!

Stationery Studio

251-990-9940, 412 Fairhope Avenue downtown; www.fairhopefinepaper.com.

We have a huge selection of imprintable invitations for every occasion, every event. Whether it’s a family gathering for that special 1st Birthday, a Sweet Sixteen soiree, or a blow-out event for the 40th, we have several themes from silly to sophisticated and formal to festive! We are a Crane & Co. fine cotton paper dealer and carry several

national lines of stationery for writing your birthday gift thank yous! Come shop with us at our store in downtown Fairhope or visit our website www.fairhopefinepaper. com and click on the links that take you to our online shopping.

Entertainment Sugar Magnolias

256-658-5533 or 251-610-0028 SugarMagnoliaBirthdays@gmail.com or SugarMagnoliaBirthdays.WordPress.com.

Princess Tutu parties brought to your location on the Eastern Shore! They provide dress up clothes and accessories for the guests and a tutu for the birthday girl to keep.Photographs are taken of all the girls and a CD and 5 x7 of the birthday girl is provided.

DK the Clown

251-554-2874 or 251-621-8017 Let DK the Clown entertain at your next event - DK is a Graduate of the Circus Clown School, is a member of the World Clown Association and is Licensed and Insured.

Balloon Artist, Face Painting and Entertainment. Great for Birthday Parties, Corporate Events, Reunions, Church Events.

Famous Friends

www.famousfriendz.biz or email jennifer@famousfriendz.biz.

Looking for a Famous Friend to help bring your child’s party to life? We have lots of Famous Friendz to choose from that can come and visit your party or special event to really make it extra special!! We have several different party packages to choose from.

Tanglewood Theatrical Service

251-510-0654 or e-mail circleofoakes@yahoo.com

We offer face painting for parties of all sizes. Balloon arches, custom murals and backdrops, custom artwork and calligraphy, certificates, invitations, table decorations, specialty props and custom made costumes. We also specialize in entertainment ranging from dance to theatricals. We have over 20 years combined experience in theater, so we know that atmosphere is everything.Call Shari Prestwood 251-510-0654 or e-mail circleofoakes@ yahoo.com for an appointment.

Rentals Eastern Shore Inflatables

251-509-2625, www.esjump.com.

We bring inflatable fun to you! We carry Water Slides, Dry Slides and Combination Bounce Houses with Free Delivery and Setup. Cleanest Inflatables in Baldwin County.

Fitzpen Place (Limo and Venue Rental)

251-621-6665, www.fitzpenplace.com The Perfect Ride for YOUR Special Day! “Pizza, Ice Cream, Bowling, Mani/Pedis, or just cruising, you’ll arrive in style! See our ad to view our beautiful limousines! We also have spacious and cozy styled 4200 sq ft ballroom that accommodates up to 300 people while the 40’ x 60’ tent covering our pavilion adds room for the more expansive guest lists. Our beautifully landscaped pond and picnic area can provide an outside garden atmosphere. The younger members on your guest list, ages 2-12 years old, can be entertained on our playground out back while being supervised by an adult 18 years or older

Drop Zone Inflatables

251-604-9132, www.dropzoneinflatables.com.

Drop Zone Inflatables will make your party the best one

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

ever! Brand new, clean equipment, Fully Insured, offering bounce houses, water slides and more!

Gulf Coast Party Rentals and Supplies

251-625-4567; www.jumps-a-lot.com.

We have the largest selection on the Gulf Coast with over 25 different waterslides. Lowest price guaranteed! Weekend inflatable rentals starting at only $110! In addition to inflatables, we also carry tents, concessions, chairs, rock walls and more! Concession Equipment (with supplies) is only $35 with inflatable rental.

Humpty Jumpty Rentals, LLC

251-990-5274, 15166 River Rd, Fairhope

Miller’s Grand Events

251-, 625-491025341 State Highway 181, Daphne, www.millersgrandevents.com.

Whether you’re planning a catered affair or corporate event, a wedding reception, fund raiser or a graduation party, you’ve come to the right place. With our expanding inventory of rental products, expert event coordinators and seasonal retail party supplies, we can offer you a total event package from one convenient source.

Pinatas, Etc.

251-752-0773, 804 Hwy 59 S., Robertsdale

Toro Jump- Gulf Coast Party Rentals

251-621-7115, 9945 Spanish Fort Blvd., Spanish Fort www.torojump.com; We supply party inflatables of all sizes, tents, balloons, water slides, jumpers, tables, chairs, and games.

Places to Party Alligator Alley

251-946-2483, 19950 County Road 71,

Summerdale. www.gatoralleyfarm.com With over 20 acres of natural cypress swamp land, our alligators roam freely in a protected environment. The whole family can safely observe alligators feeding, courting, and nesting from our elevated boardwalk. At Alligator Alley, we currently have over 150 alligators from the hatchlings in our gift shop to the big alligators in our swamp land. Enjoy a nature walk to our various exhibits as you journey towards the big swamp, and the ultimate king of Alligator Alley, Captain Crunch! This world record gator is over 13’ long, weighs over 800 pounds, and has the world’s strongest bite ever recorded from an Alligator. You’ll also observe other wild life such as: Ospreys, Owls, Turtles, Bull Frogs, and various field animals. In our gift shop area, we also display other amphibians, reptiles, and rare species.various field animals.

In our gift shop area, we also display other amphibians, reptiles, and rare species.

Back Country Trail

251-981-1180, Orange Beach www.backcountrytrail.com.

Pioneer your next birthday party, family reunion or field trip at Back Country Trail. Enjoy the beautiful nature with an Eco Tour Cart & Ride 11 Miles of Winding Trails.

Enjoy Biking, Hiking& The Butterfly Garden & Picnic at The Pavilion. Don’t forget to visit the Campground Store! Memberships available.

Bay City Gymnastics

251-621-2112, 7980 American Way, Daphne www.bcgagymnastics.com Looking for a fun place for your child to have his/her birthday party? Interested in Jumpin’ and Jiving or Rock N’ Rolling? Let us help you make your child’s birthday a day to remember. We offer an 1.5 hour birthday party package. 1 hour in our state of the art facility and 30 minutes in our party room. You won’t have to worry about the heat of the Summer in our fully air conditioned

facility, or your child’s party being rained out. We provide the activities and you provide the cake and ice cream.

You will be assigned two party hostesses. They will help your child and his/her friends run through obstacle courses, play games, relay races, jumping on our 40 foot long Tumble Track Trampoline or even come and climb on our cargo net or zing down our zip line! Our weekends fill up fast, so call today to schedule your child’s party!

Baypointe Dance Academy

251-621-3980, 25476 Friendship Rd, Daphne Come dance the day away with Bay Pointe Dance Academy. We have dance parties for all ages and dance styles from classical ballet to hip hop.

Center for the Living Arts

251-208-5671, 301 Conti Street, Mobile www.space301.com Call about art parties, camps and beautiful spaces available for parties, receptions and banquets.

Charming Teacup

251-990-3377,17111 Scenic Highway 98, Point Clear, www.charmingteacup.com Tea parties for Little Ladies ages 6-12! Victorian birthday tea party includes: Victorian hostess, invitations, costume for each child, (including gorgeous gown, fancy hat, fan, bag and jewelry!), dainty tea sandwiches, scones, Devonshire cream, fruit and petit fors served in our tea parlor, games, skits and songs. Party package for 8; the birthday girl and 7 friends are $199. Need to invite more friends? We can accommodate. Our tea parlor seats up to 12 guests; please call for additional pricing and details.

Call for reservations.

Eastern Shore Gymnastics Academy 251-447-0505, 8566 Athlete Drive, Daphne www.easternshoregymnastics.com.

Private Parties include one hour of structured gymnastics

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

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Advertising: 251-929-2099

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& 30 minutes in the party room for cake & gift opening.

We supply Paper Products, Table Cloth, Plates, Cups, Napkins & Forks, Party Favors for guests and Clean Up. You supply cake, ice cream & drinks. June Special!

Exploreum

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251-208-6879, 65 Government St, Mobile www.exploreum.com. At the Gulf Coast Exploreum, we’ve got children’s birthday parties down to a science.

When you book your child’s party with us, you relax while we do all the work. We provide your invitations, party favors, a uniquely-themed cake and a fun experiment to entertain your child and his or her guests. We’ll even handle cleaning up! Plan your party around one of our special packages below and then let us do the rest!

For all the guests in attendance, they can purchase their gift for the birthday child ahead of time, and our Exploration Station Gift Shop will have it wrapped and ready to go (call the Gift Shop at 251.208.6876 for more information). FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY, Strange Matter birthday parties will be available May26th - Sept. 3rd!

Explore the bizarre world of everyday things! Your guests will make their own lava lamp as they learn all about the strange science behind the fun! Select from one of our themes below. Each of the parties below comes with themed decorations, a themed cake, and party favors for the children to take home. Under the Sea Recommended Ages: 2-6 years old; Rumble in the Jungle Recommended Ages: 2-6 years old; Mad Scientist Recommended Ages: 6-12 years old; Out of this World Recommended Ages: 6-12 years old; All-Star Sports Recommended Ages: 6-12 years old. Each Birthday Party includes the following: Free exhibit admission for up to 30 people – children and adults (ANY additional guests are $8.00 per person) • One hour in a designated exhibit hall prior to party (Enjoy all Exploreum afterwards)• One hour in the birthday party room (located in the upstairs classroom)• Birthday party coordinator during party room time • Science experiment • Gift for the birthday child • Table-

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cloths, plates, napkins and forks• Decorations and party favors • Capri Sun • Birthday Cake

The Fieldhouse

251-626-0190, 26037 Capitol Drive, Daphne www.trainatthefieldhouse.com A great place to hold your athlete’s birthday party. Our excited, experienced staff can tailor program to specific sports interests. Includes 2 hrs in facility, trained staff to conduct sports/games, pizza, water, invitations etc. Look online for more details.

Gulf Coast Dance Alliance

251-621-9755, 9945 Hwy 31, Suite E, Spanish Fort www.gcdadance.com Whether your birthday child likes ballet, jazz, hip hop or acro/gym, we have a party for you! Call for more information about our party packages.

High Cotton Bath Company

251-970-2284. Located in the Tanger Outlet Center www.highcottonbathcompany.com. High Cotton Bath Company hosts parties for ages 5- 105! The parties include a mini spa treatment, games and custom blending products. Guests are able to pick and mix their fragrance and color for their products. Call today to book your party and ask about our Bath Sundaes!

Lake Forest Stables

251-210-8819; 268 Equine Circle, Daphne Party at Lake Forest Stables! Birthday Parties - Family Gatherings - School/Daycare Fieldtrips. Meet our fun, friendly ponies Sam and Sugar! Want to ride a bigger horse - Choctaw is your man. Parties are scheduled for two hours and include two ponies for rides, petting area with miniature goat and pig, access to large gas grill on deck with picnic seating for up to 30. To book a party contact Tonya Halterman. View our ad in this issue to see the pictures of our beautiful farm!

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Little Gym, The

251-928-3387, 101 Fly Creek Ave, Ste 328, Fairhope (Publix Shopping Center), www.tlgeasternshoreal.com There’s no better place to celebrate a birthday than at The Little Gym. That’s because it’s incredibly fun for kids and incredibly easy for you. Kids tell us their birthday party at The Little Gym is the most awesome party they’ve ever had! Parents love it, too, because we take care of everything. Our parties are held on Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 1, 3, and 5pm. The first 60 minutes is spent in our gym engaged in age-appropriate instructor-led games, activities, supervised free play, and the use of our famous air-trak! The final 30 minutes of celebration is spent in our specially decorated party room enjoying cake, drinks and presents. We provide the invitations (you give us the list--we do the rest), qualified instructors to lead the fun, all the set-up, instruction, and clean-up, a The Little Gym t-shirt for the birthday child, drinks for the children, drinks for adults, all paper products, balloons for decorations, gift registry. Bring the cake, the kids, and the camera and come join in the fun! Voted by Parents Magazine as the Nations #1 Party Spot.

Next Level Tumbling

251-621-5797, 26090 Equity Drive, Daphne www.nextleveltumbling.com. View “Birthday Parties” on the “About Us” page. 4 Fun Parties to choose from -Tumble Party: Learn tumbling skills and trampoline fun -Cheer Party: Learn motions, jumps and a cheer -Dance Party: Learn a few 8 counts of a dance -General Party: General games, parachute and trampoline fun. Each party is 2 hours long. Times are limited. Reserve your party Today! You supply the cake, We’ll supply the Fun!

Original Oyster House

251-626-2188, 3733 Battleship Pkwy (on the causeway), 948-2445, 701 Hwy 59, Gulf Shores www.originaloysterhouse.com .The Original Oyster House has many years experience in

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

serving the needs of large groups that wish to have fun in our fantastic facilities. And, we offer the best service you can find! Also available for rent, Delta Room for parties up to 40. For parties up to 100 we offer family style or seafood buffet group menus. For parties under 40 you may choose from any of our menus.

Susan’s Academy of Dance

Paint’n Parrot

Waterville, USA Water Park

251-928-4161, 9 North Church Street, Ste. A, Fairhope www.paintnparrot.com.

A pottery painting and fused playground. Our studio has everything you need to create a hand-painted piece of pottery for any occasion....even design tools to help you along.Great for birthday parties, scout groups, office parties, bridal showers and summer outings 2 pottery packages to choose from $14/child (for young artists under age 7) or $16/child (older children 7 and up). We also offer a Fused Glass party where children either make a bracelet ($20/child) or Fused glass nightlight or Suncatcher for ($18) or a TyeDye Party for $18/child.

1½-hour studio time, pottery and materials. Now also offering FUSED GLASS projects.

P’zazz Art Studio

251-802-1009, 456-A North Section Street, Fairhope www.fairhope.pzazzart. com Includes use of studio for 2 hours, a 16x20 canvas for each guest, and instruction on how to paint the picture of your choice. Bring your own cake and food.

Southern Edge Dance Center

251-610-8902, 251 South Greeno Road, Fairhope www.southernedgedance.com Dance the Day Away with a Southern Edge Dance Party.

Choose from our more popular themes such as Pop Singer, for the Super Star in you, Hip Hop Dance when you just “gotta groove” or a Classic Fairytale Ballet, perfect for all little princesses, or let us customize a party to fit your wishes.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

251-626-3835, 108 5th Street, Daphne www.susansacademyofdance.com Does your child love to dance? Would she love to celebrate her big day by learning the latest dance moves?

Then call us and let us plan a great dance party for you.

251-948-2106, Highway 59 South, Gulf Shores www.watervilleusa.com Waterville USA is a beautiful, fun and safe setting for your group outing. Our park offers something for everyone from the smallest tyke to adults -- fun for people of all ages! Waterpark Season (water and amusement parks open) . This season runs during the summer (last part of May, June, July, August) when both the Waterpark and Amusement Park are open. Amusement Park Season (waterpark closed). This season operates in the spring and late summer/fall when the Waterpark is closed. Our park is closed from October until March to take care of long term maintenance and new additions. House of Bounce however is available for parties all year long!

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

251-968-5731, 1204 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org

Analece Design/Bayside Beads

251-929-3620, 395-A Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope www.analecedesign.com.

Beading Parties for 20 or more (minimum age 8 years old). Call us to book a birthday party today!

Arena-The Next Level Laser Tag/Bazookaball

251-224-5297 (LAZR), 4720 Main Street, Suite 201, Orange Beach; www.arenaorangebeach.com Great entertainment for all ages, and perfect for birthday parties, civic outings, and family vacations. We offer Laser Tag and Bazookaball for all ages..

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Art Party by Shannon Noble

251-990-3591. Children create wonderful works of art in a creative environment. Art projects to compliment almost any theme!

Bay Bears Birthday Parties

251-479-2327 , 755 Bolling Bros. Blvd., Mobile www.mobilebaybears.com.

We are excited to host your child’s birthday at Hank Aaron Stadium with the Mobile BayBears! Our goal is to make a day at the ballpark easy for mom and/or dad and a blast for the kids! Top days for birthday parties: Fridays - Friday Night Fireworks (post game); Saturdays - Kids Eat Free w/ purchased ticket - free hotdog & Pepsi (12 years old & younger); Sundays - Play Catch on the Field (pre-game). Kids run the bases (post game). All parties must purchase the $75 “Basic Party Package” as a starter kit. Only $75 deposit to book your party! Most birthday parties take advantage of our 25 person minimum group rate ticket. Only $5 a ticket for every person added if the 25 person minimum is met! 25ppl including the Basic party package = $150. Please remember, if you wish to have birthday cake, cupcakes, or food - these items must come through the BayBears.

Belly Button Bakery Chef Parties

251-786-3804, Owner Chef Kathryn The perfect birthday party for the little chef! The birthday boy/girl can choose from our suggested menus then we make the items they choose. Parties can be held at the Village Peddler or in your own home. The price is $25 per child with a minimum of 10 children. The price includes all supplies needed during the class, an apron the kids get to decorate and take home with them and a recipe book with the recipes used during the party. Visit us on facebook to see pictures of parties.

Blue Girl Beading Co.

251-968-6900; 2200 E 2nd St # F Gulf Shores

Advertising: 251-929-2099

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Blue Girl Beading, Co is a unique beading and jewelry boutique that offers jewelry making birthday parties in shop or will travel.

Brantley Farms Petting Zoo

251-626-5416, 26214 Pollard Road, Daphne.

Birthday parties are filled with farm fun.Tour the barn and meet the donkeys. Birthday child gets to sit on miniature donkey for a picture then everyone jumps in the trampoline of hay.Attendees also hold the baby chick, chicken and bunnies. Petting the llama is always fun along with feeding a baby bottle to the baby calf.After that it is off to feed the goats and sheep.No party would be complete without the pony ride and then the grand finale hayride to see all the really big animals.All this for only $165, and you can even add a train ride for $50 extra.Call to make your reservations today.

Build-A-Bear Workshop

Cold Snap

251-626-7600, 2004 Hwy 98, Unit B, Daphne 990-6199, 84 Plantation Pointe, Fairhope www.coldsnapfrozenyogurt.com.

Cold Snap Frozen Yogurt offers 16+ flavors and 60+ toppings at our fun filled self-serve stores. Swirl your favorite yogurt flavor or flavor combination, top at our custom topping station, weigh it and pay. Come in and create your favorite Cold Snap Creation! Parties available – call today!

Dazzle Me Kids Spa

251-621-3779, 30500 State Hwy 181 Ste 405, Spanish Fort; www.dazzlemekidsspa.com Dazzle Me Kids Spa offers unique and custom spa experiences for young girls. Every young princess that walks in their door is pampered and empowered.

Chick-fil-a (2 locations)

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(251) 968-7444; 3780 Gulf Shores Pkwy Gulf Shores www.cobbtheatres.com/promotions.asp#birthdayparties.

We supply the entertainment, drinks, food and fun. We will even clean up! Call for show times and availability.

251-621-3215, Eastern Shore Centre, Spanish Fort. www.buildabear.com. You set the price, we’ll do the rest!

Bears start at $10. For more details on our parties, visit us online.

251-621-3215, 1682 US Highway 98, Daphne 251-621-3020, Eastern Shore Shopping Ctr, Spanish Fort www.chickfila.com. Come party with the Cow! Beat the heat with a Chick-Fil-A birthday party! Indoor playground.

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Cobb Theater

251-626-6686, Jubilee Shopping Center (next to 5 Guys and Hobby Lobby) www.chillyogurt.com; Party at Chill Yogurt Café! Enjoy make your own frozen yogurt with tons of great toppings.

Make it your way! Call today to reserve a party! We have many flavors of cakes, yogurt cakes and can even make custom cakes!

Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

Hot Wheels Skate Center

251-626-5120, 624 Whispering Pines Road, Daphne www.hotwheelsdaphne.com. Great Party packages that include three hours of skating (including skate rental), soft drinks, pizza, place settings and invitations. Depending on the size of your party pick from these packages: Star Package offers the mentioned features for 10 skaters for only $99! Package VIP Package includes the mentioned features for 10 skaters plus a PRIVATE party room and a pair of speed skates for the birthday child .

All for only $179! NEW! GLOW Party! - is the premium package that not only offers the features mentioned for 10 skaters with a Private Party Room and 10 GLOW place settings, neon glow sticks, glow bracelet, neon glow necklace, and flashing glow cups Parties are available Saturdays & Sundays 2-5pm. We also offer special VIP Parties for tweens on Saturday Nights 7pm – 10pm.

Creative Outlet Dance Center

(251) 224-3687; 4651 S. Main Street, Orange Beach

251-928 9511, 66 ½ South Section St., Fairhope www.creativeoutletdance.com.

Ballerina , Princess, Pop Star, Circus, Hello Kitty , Superhero and Pirate themed parties. We provide the facility, entertainment (ballet and dance activities and games) and dress-up clothes for 15 guests. Moms bring in food and favors. 1 ½-hour party $95.

Eastern Shore Lanes

Eastern Shore Art Center

251-625-3400, wwweslanes.com, 10460 Eastern Shore Blvd, Spanish Fort. Offering several party packages for all ages. Laser Tag can be included.

Genesis College Spa Parties

251-445-8900, 7241 Dolphin St, Daphne If you are looking to have a Spa Party, Genesis Career College is the place for you! Up-dos, manicures, pedicures, you create the party package you want! Hours are Monday – Friday 10am – 6pm. (services are performed

by Genesis students)

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251-928-2228, 401 Oak Street, Fairhope www.easternshoreartcenter.com.

Let one of our children’s art instructors plan an “art party” for your child’s special day. Clay and painting classes available.

Eastern Shore Lanes

251-943-4575, 10460 Eastern Shore Blvd, Spanish Ft (behind Eastern Shore Centre) Come visit our new facility complete with restaurant, arcade and tons of family fun! Call for our great birthday party packages.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Eastern Shore Centre Fountain

251-625-0060, Management Office. 30500 State Highway 181, Suite 451, Spanish Fort www.easternshorecentre.com.

Looking for a special way to celebrate your child’s birthday? Why not have an Eastern Shore Centre Fountain Fun Party? You’ll see smiles, giggles, laughter and fun being shared by the children as they frolic and play in the dancing water of the fountain. For just $40, we provide a reserved covered area, tables and chairs for 90 minutes.

We also do all the clean-up after the party, so you can spend your time enjoying your child’s celebration.

Eastern Shore Centre tenants also offer many choices for cakes, ice cream, nachos, pizza, hot dogs & more.

Eastern Shore Dance Academy

251-626-2300, 9063 Merritt Lane, Daphne www.easternshoredanceacademy.com.

Whether you are as Pretty as a Princess, looking for some funky Hip Hop or into All that Jazz, we have a party for you! We offer birthday parties for all ages. Our 2 hour parties include dance instruction, a performance for the parents and loads of fun. Bring your own cake, drinks and snacks. We’ll supply the fun.

Fairhope City Pool

251-990-0175, 803 North Greeno Road, Fairhope www.cofairhope.com Located at the Fairhope Recreation Center the Fairhope City Pool is a great place to have your swimming party.

Private Parties from 6pm - 8pm, cost is $150.Non-private party rates also available, call for info.

Five Rivers Delta Safaris

251-259-8531, Five Rivers on the Causeway www.5RDS.com. We host adventure themed birthday parties for children of all ages. Up to 20 children can play a variety of age-specific, educational focused fun games while enjoying the outdoors. Examples of the themes you

can choose from are Safari Theme and Pirate Theme. $95 for 1-12 Children. $135 for 13-20 Children. Additional $6 per child due on day of party. Prices include standard birthday cake. Additional items can be added as well, such as boat rides, food and beverages, party favors, even large inflatable jumping castles, etc. Please contact us for pricing on these items.

The Game Machine

251-656-0096; www.thegamemachine.biz; info@thegamemachine.biz The Game Machine is a mobile gaming center. A large trailer loaded with cool technology, that we bring to your location! Equipped with four 51 inch plasma 1080p 3D flat screens, attached to Xbox, PS3, and Wii systems, The Game Machine is sure to entertain people of all ages.

We carry a library of current and popular games, each designed to be played by two or more players. Everything is linked, so 16 players can play at the same time. We also provide 3D headgear for games that support it. The Game Machine is perfect for birthday parties, festivals, fundraisers, and church and school events. Corporations can use us to promote team building, good moral, or to entertain their kids at convention time. Hire us to be the life of your next social event!

Green Acres School of Dance

251-947-5404, 18451 Ohio St # A, Robertsdale Come dance or tumble the day away with a Green Acres Birthday Party.

Gulf Bowl

251-943-4575, 2881 South Juniper Street (behind Tanger Outlet) Foley. Come visit our new facility complete with restaurant, arcade and tons of family fun! Call for our great birthday party packages.

Kangarooz

251-219-4290, 31000 Bass Pro Drive (Next to Bass Pro

Shop), www.mykangarooz.com At Kangarooz Family Fun Center we strive to offer the best in family entertainment, Our company goal is to provide a safe, clean place for your family to play with excellent guest service. Parties are $220 for 10 children, $280 for 15 children, $320 for 20 children, $360 for 25 children, $13,50 for each additional child. Each party includes fresh baked pizzas, Blue Bell ice cream cups, drinks, Invitations. Themed party room for 2 hours, Games, Balloons and paper products, a visit from the Kangarooz mascot, a gift for the birthday child. All you have to do is bring the cake.

Marble Slab Creamery

251-621-8226, Eastern Shore Centre, Spanish Fort www.marbleslab.com; Marble Slab Creamery can help turn any event into a special occasion. Whether you want a Sundae Bar, Portable Slab* or an ice cream cake to match your theme, you can count on us to dish out the freshest, best tasting ice cream anywhere. The Portable Slab is where we bring The Slab to you. It is like having a Marble Slab Creamery store brought to you complete with mixins, waffle cones and more!

Moo Che Che

251-626-9992, Eastern Shore Blvd, Spanish Fort (next to Panera Bread and Pet Smart) www.moocheche.com; Looking for something cool to add to your party? Party with Moo Che Che! With several different frozen yogurt flavors and even more toppings this is just the thing to top off your next party. Call today about a Moo Che Che party or catering event.

Oak Hollow Farm

251-928-4840, 14210 Greeno Road, Fairhope www.oakhollowfarm.net For your next party, check out all the fun and relaxing things you can do at Oak Hollow Farm. With over 300 acres of land, you can choose as few or as many activities

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

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as you like: Horseback Riding, Giant Slide, Playground, Hay Rides, Space Walks, Fishing, Farm Animals and more! Don’t forget about our over 6,000 sq ft rustic barn.

It is a great place to have refreshments, line-dance or even karaoke!

CELEBRATE YOUR BIRTHDAY WITH US!

Paint’n Pals

251-654-2313, 28600 US Hwy 98 (Next to Bangkok Tai), www.paintandpals.com.

Paint parties are fun for birthdays, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, holiday parties, baby showers and other special occasions. Paint parties are not just for adults!

Schedule a paint party for your child’s birthday or graduation at either our Mobile studio or Daphne location. To find out more about having a paint party for your child, visit our website.

KIDS EAT

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Paint Party Studios

251-343-2423, 6729-D Spanish Fort Blvd www.paintpartystudios.com; Paint Party Studios offers wonderful art parties or children ages 4 and up with different packages sure to fit your needs. Package A is $200 for up to 15 children, 90 min. $10 each additional child.

Package B is $300 for up to 15 children, 2 hours, $10 each additional child, 16x20 wood framed canvas.

OnTuesdays • Causeway Location Only

Paint Slingers

251-259-1653, (Eastern Shore Plaza across from Party City); www.paintslingers.net; We’ll design a painting that follows your child’s interest or help you decide from one of our choices. We decorate and provide all art supplies!

Prices include all art supplies, a birthday banner and an extra craft. Under 20 children- $23 per child; 20 children$20 per child Come party in our studio or, we can bring the painting party to your location!

Point Clear Tennis/Swim

251-928-7715 or 251-990-4467, 17107 Tennis Club Drive, Fairhope. Your guest will love swimming and relaxing in the pool at Point Clear Tennis and Swim Club.

Parties can be up to 4hours long and can include up to 50 guest. Members up to 10 guests/children’s party (12 and under)- $50. Members up to 20 guests/children’s party (12 and under)- $75. Members up to 50 guests, Adults$150. Non-members add $25 to children’s parties, add $50 for adult parties. Also ask about our special summer membership rates!

Rent out the Banquet Room for your party at the CAUSEWAY LOCATION ONLY!

Rawhide Boarding Stables

251-928-7897, Highway 3, Fairhope. We can bring our horses and/or ponies to your birthday party or special event, or we also do birthday parties at our stables, with a Cowboy or Cowgirl theme.

Entertainment for Kids • Playground • Boat Dock • Private Room for Birthday Parties

3733 Battleship Pkwy • Mobile • 251-626-2188 Hwy 59 • Original Oyster House Boardwalk • 251-948-2445

FOLLOW US

Spanish Fort Kids Park

251-626-4884, This castle-like park, located just behind City Hall in Spanish Fort, was built by volunteers for the enjoyment of the community. The pavilion can be reserved for special occasions, such as birthday parties and reunions. Please contact City Hall for more information.

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www.originaloysterhouse.com

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Track, The

251-968-8111, 3200 Gulf Shore Pkwy, Gulf Shores www.gulfshorestrack.com.

Wales West Light Railway

251-988-8509, 13670 Smiley St., Silverhill www.waleswest.com; We can design a party to fit your needs. Wales West has a large room with kitchen and deck overlooking lake; Party Barn; Real English Steam Train; Indoor Heated Pool; Playground; Lake with Waterfall; Fishing and Pedal Boats; Catering; petting zoo and fireworks show.

Wed With Style, LLC

251-751-1000, Wed-with-style.com Tea parties, kids theme birthday parties. All the parent needs to do is send invites & bring a cake.

Victoria Stankoski, Event Planner ESP

Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

A Page in a Book

by Paige Gardner Smith

Real Boys Who Made a Difference

Looking at our little boys we can’t help but wonder who they will become as adults. We ask ourselves what we can do to foster their strengths, to give them courage to take on hard challenges. Their experiences as children often provide the early inspiration that moves them in the direction of a future that is both rewarding for them – and sometimes rewards the greater community as well. Cultivating a “can-do” attitude in children goes far toward building their confidence to follow their heart, pursue their dreams and blaze new paths. The following titles share the inspirational stories of young men who stepped up to a challenge and made a difference!

Manfish: A Story of Jacques Cousteau

by Jennifer Berne, Illustrated by Eric Puybaret (Chronicle Books) As a little boy in France, Jacques Cousteau was fascinated by water…how it felt, why he floated on it, why rocks sank in it. He dreamed of flying among the fish below, delving their world beneath the surface of the water. But you can only hold your breath so long. As he got older he began to explore his passion for mechanics, chemistry and film, learning how cameras worked, processing his own film and making a LOT of home movies. But the sea kept calling to Jacques until he found a way to fly among the fishes below. His invention of scuba gear, with his friend Emile, and his knowledge of film-making allowed him and his friends to record the unseen beauty beneath the waves, inspiring generations to protect its fragile majesty. With poetic rhythms, stark illustrations and inspirational afterword, “Manfish” is a book you’ll dive into regularly!

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind

by William Kamkwamba & Bryan Mealer, Illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon (Dial Books for Young Readers / Penguin) In William’s village in Malawi, there was no electricity or running water. He spent his days alongside his neighbors and family farming in the drought-plagued earth. But at night he dreamed about the radios he heard, cars he saw on roads – he wanted to know how they worked. As the crops dried up brining famine in its wake, William was forced to leave school and had to find another way to learn. Using the small library near his village, he found an English dictionary and taught himself to read the science and technology textbooks. He learned how things worked and believed he could make something that would help his village – a windmill. But with no money for tools and materials, the boy William will have to use all his creativity and tenacity to build something that may save his village. The title’s message of strength and perseverance is as lovely as the richly illustrated pages that bring this true story to life.

Knit Your Bit: A World War I Story

by Deborah Hopkinson, Illustrated by Steven Guarnaccia (G.P Putnam / Penguin) When Mikey’s father heads off to war, he wants to be brave and go with him. But as his Dad boards the train, he reminds Mikey that sometimes it takes bravery to stay behind and support the war from home.

When Mikey asks his mother what he can do to help with the war, she reminds him that the soldiers need knitted socks and caps. She offers to teach him how to knit, and he immediately nixes the idea… because “knitting is for girls”. But when he sees pictures of firemen knitting, and the president raising wool sheep on the White House lawn, he realizes that everyone can do their part. Mikey decides he’s brave enough to take up the needles and learn to knit. (He even persuades some of his buddies to join him.) This story is based on the true “Knit Your Bit” efforts across the U.S. when schools and clubs hosted contests, knitting bees and other events to get everyone knitting for the soldiers overseas.

Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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Cut Your Losses

by Marla Cilley

We all make mistakes! This is a fact of living. So why do we beat ourselves up when we have made a bad choice? I think it is because deep down inside we are doing what has been done to us all of our lives; punishing ourselves. This has got to stop.

Instead of admitting that we have made a bad choice, we keep trying to make that decision work. Maybe we should take a lesson from business and cut our losses and move on. Instead, we

keep trying to fix things to make them better.

Clutter is clutter no matter what form it takes. You can’t organize clutter; you can only get rid of it! I want your home to be filled with things that make you smile. Our lives are too short to continually deal with that pink elephant in the living room.

One time a dear friend was moving from a home where she had lived 27 years. It was hard for her to let go of things. Eventually, she came up with a plan. If she had any doubt about whether something should be packed, she would set it in the main path to the truck. On the first day she would gingerly walk around the item. The next day she pushed it aside, and if on the third day she kicked it, it went to the curb. This showed her

that she really didn’t love it as much as she had originally thought she had.

We can decorate that pink elephant, but it is still a pink elephant. It is sucking the life right out of you. You spend your whole day doing your best to make it fit. God knows we don’t want to admit that we made the mistake of bringing that pink elephant home in the first place; that we wasted money and, worst of all, our time. We just keep plodding along, hoping that the pink elephant will not get mad and become the bull in the china shop. The sad part is that it already has.

Many years ago I had a diseased gallbladder. I was sick all the time. This gallbladder was toxic to me. Once it was removed I was able to get on with my life.

Relationships can be like this, too. We have all had people in our lives who suck the life right out of us. You may be with someone right now who is toxic to you.

You may have a friend who uses you to make herself feel superior. You may be struggling with an abuse situation that you hope and pray will get better. They don’t get better. They get worse. This abuse can mean a lot of things: physical, emotional, sexual, drug, alcohol and financial.

It is time to cut your losses and strap on your wings to FLY...Finally Loving Yourself. For when you are FLYing, you realize when something is clutter in your life. As nurturers we really do want to help everyone, but in the end, we can only help ourselves. This is not a selfish attitude. It is all about self-preservation. This type of clutter is going to destroy your spirit.

Accept that you made a mistake!

Forgive yourself and cut your losses by decluttering. In business if you lose a nickel on everything you sell, and you sell a million of them, you are losing a million nickels. Stop the blood-letting!

For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, see her website and join her free mentoring group at www.

FlyLady.net. Also check out her books, Sink Reflections, published by Random House, and her New York Times Best Selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2013 Marla Cilley.

Used by permission in this publication.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

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Vacation Bible Schools Ascension Lutheran Church

8888 County Rd. 64, Daphne (251) 375-6700, www.ourdaphnechurch.com June 10-14, 9:00 a.m. – Noon Tell It On the Mountain” Online registration available beginning May 1st on church website For more info, call Linda Hall.

Daphne United Methodist Church

2401 Main St., Daphne (251) 626-2287, www.dumc.org June 3 - 7, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Open to rising Pre K 4 through fifth grade.

“Southwest Roundup!”

For more information contact Brandon Fricks, brandon@dumc.org

Eastern Shore Baptist

6847 Park Drive, Daphne (251) 626-5550, www.myesbc.net/vbs June 3-7, 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Open to kids entering K – 5th grade “Colossal Coaster World”.

Registration is available online at www.myesbc.net and at the church office.

Eastern Shore Presbyterian

23050 Highway 98, Fairhope (251) 928-0977, www.easternshorepca.org Kick Off & Registration: Sunday, July 14th at 5:30pm, Monday-Friday, July 15-19, 8:30a.m.– 11:30p.m. Ages 4 (preschool) - 6th grade (completed) Contact: Anna Davey, Director of Children’s Ministry at adavey@ easternshorepca.org, 928-0977, ext. 1226.

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Fairhope UMC

155 S. Section St., Fairhope (251) 928-1148 www.fairhopeumc.org Monday, June 3 - Friday, June 7. 8:45 a.m. 12:15 p.m.

Ages rising Kindergarten - 6th grade Kingdom Rock- Where kids learn to stand strong in God Free VBS t-shirt with registration, Register online now through May 19th Contact Michelle Graham with questions.

First Baptist Church

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begin at 5:15 p.m. on Sunday, June 9th with a light supper starting at 5:30 and activities at 6:00. A light snack supper will be provided from 5:30 p.m. until 5:55 p.m. each night. The real fun will begin at 6:00 p.m. and last until 8:15 p.m

Jubilee Baptist Church

300 S. Section St., Fairhope (251) 928-8685,www.fbcfairhope.com June 10 - June 14, 9 a.m. -12:45 p.m.

“Colossal Coater World” Open to children in K – 5th grade Registration is online at fbcfairhope.org– visit the website for link to registration site.

9264 Pleasant Road, Daphne (251) 621-7095, www.jubileebaptist.com June 24-28, 5:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Colossal Coaster World. Facing Fear and Trusting God VBS Dinner is served at 5:00 p.m. with activities following from 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Visit the website for registration.

First Baptist Church of Loxley

Providence United Methodist Church

1050 N Alabama St., Loxley (251) 964-5700, www.fbcloxley.com June 9-14, 5:30 light supper with activities 6 pm to 8:30 pm.

Ages: 3 years old thru 6th grade Get ready for a WORLD TOUR at First Baptist Church Loxley for ages 3 years old through 6th grade. Each night will feature a different country of the world including Ireland, Uganda, India, and Brazil. Get ready to learn about how much God loves you on Jeff Slaughter’s World Tour VBS 2013! The church is located at 1050 N. Alabama Street in Loxley. Registration will 62

32200 Jimmy Faulkner Drive, Spanish Fort (251) 626-2510, www.providencemethodist.org Sunday June 23 – 28; 5:15 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Ages 4yrs - 5th grade, “Southwest Roundup” Dinner, skits, crafts and games. Register on the website or call the church.

Spanish Fort Presbyterian Church

6620 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort (251) 626-1242 contact Elizabeth June 3-7, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Rising K-5th Grade “Pauls Dangerous Journey to Share the Truth” Advertising: 251-929-2099

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Barnwell Baptist Church

Christ Presbyterian Church

7780 US Highway 98, Fairhope/Point Clear, (251) 928-8286 Mon, July 15– Fri, July 19, 8:30-11:30 a.m., commencement celebration 7/19 at 5:30 p.m. kindergarden-5th grade Contact Robyn for more info.

8450 Whispering Pines Rd., Daphne (251) 621-9444 June 10-14, 5:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m.

Light supper served Rising Kindergarden-5th grade “Gods Backyard Bible Camp”

Celebration Church

Church on the Eastern Shore 10274 Highway 104, Fairhope www.cotes.tv to register June 10-14th, K-4th grades, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., grades 5-6th, 6:30 p.m. -8:30 p.m.

Camp COTES, “Truth for Life”, Bible school on Steroids!

8180 Dyer Rd. July 24th - 26th, “Summer Surge” 6:00pm - 9:00pm, Ages: 5 yrs - 5th Grade Cost: Free; For More Information: Austin@ fairhopechurch.com; Pre-registertion: Fairhopechurch.com/summersurge This year Celebration Church is proud to present SUMMER SURGE! This will be a free three night event for ages 5 - 5th grade. SUMMER SURGE will be teaching this generation how to stand out from the crowd and be different! By looking at someone of the most famous biblical characters, we can see how God wants us to live a life that leads others! SUMMER SURGE will have water inflatables every night, so bring a bathing suit and towel.

Christ the King Church

1505 Main Street, Daphne (251) 621-1640, www.ctk-daphne.org July 15-19, “Cruise through the Advent and the Baptism of Jesus” VBS: 4 years – 6th Grade Youth Volunteers: 7th Grade and up Register online- deadline May 15

June 3 - 7,- 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Kindergarten – 5th grade

First Baptist Church Robertsdale

18200 Hwy 104, Robertsdale (2510 947-7478, www.firstrobertsdale.com July 15th – July 19, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Completed 5K – Completed 5th grade “Camp 3:18” - $15/child for the week and includes t-shirt. Pre-registration available after May 13th on our website.

Foley United Methodist Church 915 North Pine Street, Foley (251) 943-4393, www.foleyumc.org

First Baptist Church of Foley

Gulf Shores United Methodist Church

First Baptist Church of Gulf Shores

19470 Oak Road West, Gulf Shores (251) 968-5302 www.gracefellowship-pca.com

221 N. Alston Street, Foley (251) 943-8352, www.fbcfoley.com June 17 – 21, 8:30 a.m. – 12noon 3 through complete 6th grade “Colossal Coater World” – registration available online.

2200 W 1st Street, Gulf Shores (251) 968-7369, www.fbcgulf.com June 10 – 14, 9 a.m. – 12noon Entering PreK – Completed 6th grade

First Baptist Church of Orange Beach 4773 Bay Circle Orange Beach (251) 981-4288 www.firstbaptistorangebeach.com

1900 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores 251-968-2411, www.gulfshoresumc.org June 10 – 13 , 9a.m. – 12 noon 4 years (by Sept 1st) through 6th grade.

Must be potty trained

Grace Fellowship, PCA

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

8271 Whispering Pines Rd., Daphne (251) 621-2968, www.holytrinitydaphne.org July 11 - 13; 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Rising Kindergarteners-5th grade Call the office to register.

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Lagoon Baptist Church

St. James Episcopal

17867 State Hwy 180 W, Gulf Shores (251) 968-7057 June 3rd - 7, 8:30 a.m. – 12 noon PreK - 6th grade

860 N. Section Street, Fairhope (251) 928-2912 June 17-20, 9-11:30am, “Everywhere Fun Fair”

Orange Beach United Methodist Church

370 South Section Street, Fairhope (251) 928-5931, ext 122 www.stlawrencevbs.com June 10-14, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Open to children entering K-6th grade. “ A Prayer Safari” Registration starts May 10. Cost- $35

28751 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 (251) 981-6751, www.orangebeachumc.org Theme “Kingdom Rock-Where kids learn to stand strong in God” June 24-29, 9 a.m. -12 noon, Ages 3-5th grade Register at www.orangebeachumc.org at VBS link. For more information contact Laura Thomas.

Redeemer Lutheran Church

200 South Section St, Fairhope (251) 928-8397, www.redeemerfairope.org June 10-14, 9am - Noon Open to ages 2-12 “Tell it on the Mountain” - Children make friends explore Bible stories, sing songs, do crafts, play games and eat snacks. For more info email redeemerfairhope@bellsouth.net.

Spanish Fort United Methodist

6530 Spanish Fort Blvd., Spanish Fort (251) 626-1334 www.groupvbspro.com/vbs/ez/sfumc June 24-28, 8:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.

Ages 4 (by Sept) thru completed 5th grade Theme: “Kingdom Rock- Where kids learn to stand strong in God. Contact Beth for more information.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

St. Lawrence Catholic Church

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

28788 N. Main St., Daphne (251) 626-2421 June 3-6, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

All ages welcome; “The Everywhere Fun Fair” Contact Tina Erickson for more information

St. Thomas by-the-Sea

26547 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach (251) 981-8132 July 15-19th, 9 am to 12 pm Ages K-6th grade

Trinity Presbyterian Church

545 S. Mobile St, Fairhope (251) 928-2524, www.tpcfairhope.org July 15-19, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Ages K4 years – Rising 5th Grade “ Everywhere Fun Fair- where Gods world comes together” Contact Jaime Jones at (251) 621-0775.

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

What DADS Do Best

by Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D.

Pop culture doesn’t appreciate dads. Sitcoms make fun of their diapering (in)abilities or portray dads as irresponsible babysitters who feed the kids pizza, ice cream and sugary soda while mom is out for the evening.

Personal experience tells me there may some truth in this.

My own husband shows our kids zombie movies then acts surprised when they refuse to sleep with the lights out.

Really.

Stereotypes aside, it can be hard to move past the mom-knows best mentality and make room for dads’ different style of parenting. Mom of four Tsara Shelton of Teague, Tex., says parenting together with her boys’ dad has been the biggest challenge in their happy, 13-year marriage.

“I always want to be the one with the answers and insights! But in truth, it’s been co-parenting that’s blessed my boys with the best of what both mom and dad have to offer.” All moms can learn valuable lessons from watching what dads do best.

Here’s how.

Dads are good with good enough

Most moms I know struggle to drown out the nagging inner critic who says we aren’t good enough. We feel intense pressure to keep the house (and kids!) clean and to respond cheerfully to every social Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

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obligation. Our to-do lists never get done.

And it’s stressful. Researchers at Auburn University found women are more likely to feel inadequate at home and at work than men because we’re more perfectionistic.

Dads recognize the 80% solution is often good enough. They can walk away from a sink full of unwashed dishes – without feeling guilty – to spend time playing with the kids before bedtime.

Moms can’t deny there is wisdom in this approach. Dishes don’t grow up and go off to college. Kids do.

Being good with “good enough” doesn’t mean dads deny their shortcomings. Tina Bushman, co-author of the family discussion-starting book Table 66

Talk, says she has learned from watching her husband, John, address his missteps.

“When it has been a rough parenting day, he will sit on the edge of our child’s bed and explain that even though parents try hard, we aren’t perfect. He apologizes if he got upset or said the wrong thing and asks forgiveness. It takes a humble dad to do that and I love him for it.”

Dads encourage active play

Mud pies, snow forts and do-it-yourself science experiments are dads’ domain, says Wendy Valderrama of Denver, Colo., “They do messy fun really well.” Valderrama watches her 3-year-old daughter’s princess wedding ball with prince Daddy every night. “He lets her take the lead and Advertising: 251-929-2099

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follows right along with her in the imaginative play,” she says. Dads’ passion for play is a joy to behold.

When they aren’t entertaining kids on their own level, dads expose kids to grown-up tasks and topics. A dad might teach a child how to mow the lawn or talk about financial matters during informal apprenticeship sessions. Since dads aren’t focused on ages and stages of development, they may share information that is over kids’ heads. There is an upside to this, Valderanna says. “The conversations I overhear between my daughter and her dad are amazing! I see her processing concepts I wouldn’t have thought possible because I am stuck in a preschool mentality all day.”

Dads encourage risk-taking

While moms’ protective instincts lead us to discourage kids from taking physical risks, studies show dads give kids more personal space to explore the environment, even if there is risk involved. “At the park, I’m nervous about my 2-year-old going down the big slide, and, at home, I protect my baby from face-planting every time he attempts to crawl,” says San Di-

While moms’ protective instincts lead us to discourage kids from taking physical risks, studies show dads give kids more personal space to explore the environment, even if there is risk involved.

ego, Calif., mom Anna Crowe. Dads often push kids to go outside their comfort zones.

Physical challenges help kids develop strength, coordination and confidence. And, by testing their physical prowess, “kids learn valuable skills that could prevent them from getting into serious trouble in the future,” Crowe admits. Dads allow kids to learn by doing when moms might be more likely to teach by talking.

During the anxious moments in parenting, dads maintain a calm composure moms admire. Stacy Lewis of Long Beach, Calif., says her husband changed her perspective on parenting forever during one intense encounter with their three kids. He said, “I don’t get it! You are the mom. Why are you hollering?” And

something clicked for Lewis. “He keeps things insanely balanced, and I love him for that.”

Dads set boundaries

Because women are focused on preserving social connections, we may avoid family conflict. The mental and emotional effort of peacekeeping can lead to emotional exhaustion for women, according to research by psychologists at Carnegie Mellon University. Over time, minor frustrations can grow into deep, simmering resentments.

Shelton admits she struggles to establish clear, firm rules for her kids. She

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

sees most issues as gray areas and enjoys discussing the connections between kids’ behaviors, social expectations and cultural pressures.

While moms might see kids’ behavior in shades of gray, dads can take a more black-and-white view. Men are less likely to shy away from conflict because they don’t take it personally. That means they step in and confront interpersonal issues head-on. Shelton’s two youngest sons – who had symptoms of autism at early ages – learned to be comfortable in their own bodies and brains because of their dad’s black-and-white boundaries. “If my husband didn’t bring everything down to its simplicity I would get lost loving my boys in the gray,” she says. The key to parenting well is to figure out which situations require a firm, rule-based response and which ones call for deeper conversation.

Dads seem to know this intuitively.

Dads don’t fret

Women often wish men would listen to our problems without trying to solve them, but that’s not how men are wired.

When things go wrong, dads jump into problem-solving mode and determine what

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

steps they can take to change the situation.

If the first attempt isn’t successful, dads try another approach.

Women are more likely to focus on feelings, which can actually amplify distress. We may commiserate with girlfriends or replay worst-case scenarios in our minds. C. Lee Reed of Beachside, Florida recalls her father often told his kids to “suck it up” in the face of disappointment. “It sounds crazy but we learned to put on our big girl panties when things didn’t go our way,” Reed says. Now she uses the same phrase with her own daughter. It lightens the mood when emotions run high.

Dads’ emotional balance allows them to keep parenting problems in perspective. Crowe says she often panicked at her son’s inability to sleep through the night or the fact that he didn’t crawl when other babies did. But her husband took a longer view. “He taught me not to worry so much about the little things, unless they become a bigger concern,” says Crowe. A calm response is both comforting and practical.

Dads are present

Moms take pride in our super-human

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ability to do five things at once, but there is an undeniable downside. Multitasking prevents us from seizing the joys of the present moment. Lauren Nichols of Farmingdale, NY, praises her husband’s ability to be in the moment with their 4-year-old son. “I admire his ability to slow down and listen to everything our son has to say.

It is as if he really remembers what it was like to be a little kid. They are two peas in a pod.”

Reed is inspired by her husband’s presence as well. While Reed, who calls herself “Helicopter Mom” is busy multitasking, her husband, “Just Plane Dad,” knows how to be fully present in the moment, she says. “When he spends time with our daughter, he’s not worried about the laundry or paying the bills. He is all there.” Tuning in completely allows dads to see children as growing, loving little people. And it reminds us all that we’re blessed by our children – and their dads – in big and small ways every day. ESP Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist who has gleaned many practical parenting strategies from her husband’s more laid-back approach.

She is the author of Detachment Parenting.

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Family Calendar Ongoing

American Sport Art Museum and Archives Located on the campus of the United States Sports Academy in Daphne, dedicated to the preservation of sports history, art, and literature. Exhibits spotlight visiting artists on a rotating basis, as well as our permanent collection of prints, sculpture, original paintings, photographs and other arts media. Free admission. Hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 1 Academy Drive, Daphne. For more information call 251.626.3303 or visit www.asama. org.

Big Brother / Big Sister Mentors Needed At-risk children at Summerdale School need volunteer Big Brother Big Sister mentors. “Bigs” have fun with a child one time a week, for one hour, on school grounds, during the school year by reading a story, working puzzles, playing catch, drawing, or just being a friend. Professional training and support are provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama YMCA, Inc. For more information or to volunteer, contact Polly at 251-344-0536 ext. 104.

Eastern Shore Art Center A non-profit arts organization located in beautiful downtown Fairhope. The Art Center houses four galleries with exhibits that change monthly, as well as a gallery featuring member artists’ work for sale.

Admission is free. 401 Oak Street, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928.2228 or visit www.easternshoreartcenter.com.

The Exploreum The Exploreum is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. For tickets or more information visit www.exploreum.com or call 251-208-6873. 65 Government Street, Mobile.

Fairhope Museum of History The museum is full of artifacts from old Fairhope.

You can see displays on Clay City, the Single Tax Association and the Civil War. You can also see personal belongings from some of Fairhope’s first families. The museum is located in downtown Fairhope at 24 North Section Street. The museum is open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, call 929-1474.

Marietta Johnson Museum This museum was founded to preserve the oldest school building in Baldwin Country, which was founded in 1907 by famed educator Marietta Johnson.

Known as one of the first progressive schools in the world, the museum includes historic letters, documents, and artifacts from the school’s heyday, as well as biographical information about Marietta Johnson. To learn more, visit www.mariettajohnson. org. Open Mondays-Fridays from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Admission is free. 440 Fairhope Ave. 990-8601.

Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve The Weeks Bay Reserve has a free educational interpretive center and two boardwalks. The Interpretive Center houses a multitude of exhibits, habitat models, specimen collections and a diorama giving the visitor a better understanding about the value of estuaries, diversity of coastal wetlands, and a close-up look at living plants and animals of coastal Alabama. Admission is free. Hours are Monday – Saturday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. 11300 US Highway 98, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928-9792 or visit www.weeksbay.org.

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June2013

Classes/Meetings

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) Offering Adoptive Family Support Group Meetings in Baldwin County the 3rd Monday of each month.

The meeting is held at Eastern Shore Church of Christ, 1209 Daphne Ave, in Daphne from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Parent, Youth/Teen group and childcare is available. Topic discussions by adoption professionals and ceu’s for foster families are offered.

For more information call 251-460-2727 or 1-800489-1886 or www.childrensaid.org. APAC also offers free counseling services to adoptive families.

Celebration MOPS Fairhope Celebration MOPS meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. at Celebration Church, 8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope. Childcare is provided and is included in the fees. There is an annual $23.95 MOPS International membership fee and $5/meeting. Check us out on Facebook at Celebration MOPS Fairhope or contact coordinator Lauren Beck at celebrationmopsfairhope@gmail.com.

Daphne Neurological Disease Support Group (Includes Parkinson’s Disease, epilepsy). Meets second Monday of each month at Daphne United Methodist Church, 2401 Main Street, Daphne, in the Community Life Center-Gathering Room. 11:00 a.m. until noon. Noon light lunch for $3 from 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. Speaker or joint group session. Contact person: Alice Hallford - 251-6268228.

Fairhope MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) We meet 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. every 2nd & 4th Monday at Fairhope United Methodist Church.

All mothers of young children are welcome. Email fairhopemops@yahoo.com for more info.

MOPS on the Eastern Shore We meet at Faith Family Fellowship in Spanish Fort on the 2nd Thursday of each month, from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. The evening meeting meets on the first Thursday night of the month from 6 - 8 p.m. September through May. MOPS is designed to nurture mothers and it is for all mothers from all walks of life who have children birth through K-5.

Each meeting provides an inviting environment where women can come - just as they are - to build friendships, be encouraged, gain practical parenting strategies and have fun all while their children are lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program. A typical meeting includes sharing a meal together, listening to a speaker that is of interest to mothers with young children, participating in a roundtable discussion, or doing a creative craft project. The children’s program includes care for infants as well as classes for toddlers through kindergarten. http://mopsontheeasternshore.shutterfly.com/ Moonlight Chasse’ Ballroom Dance Society Dance lessons from 7 – 7:30 p.m., and Dancing from 7:30 – 10 p.m., first and third Monday of every month, at Fitzpen Place, 1 mile east of Eastern Shore Mall. No partner necessary. $10 per person includes dance lesson. $7 with membership, includes dance lesson. Live music, cash bar. www.FitzpenPlace. com. www.Moonlightchasse.com. For more information, call 251-621-6665 or 251-377-4069.

PUMC Caregiver Support Group A new support group for caregivers of aging parents and others is discussing “boundaries” at monthly meetings open to the community. The public is invited to be a part of this support group, which meets monthly at Providence UMC, located between

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Spanish Fort High School and Middle School at 32200 Jimmy Faulkner Dr. For more information about the new support group, call the church office at (251) 626-2510 or email pumc.office@bellsouth.net.

For more information about Providence UMC, call the church office or visit the website at www.providencemethodist.org.

The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) Part of a nationwide effort to support fathers in the important and special role they play in the life of a child. Quenching the Father Thirst class held Mondays from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., 12-wk rotating series (begin at any time once intake is complete) at The Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne. Case management services also offered. Family Time supervised visitation coming soon. Call 251-626-1610 for more information and to take classes in Daphne. RFP classes require intake appt. IN ADVANCE. www.familycentermobile.org or www.Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile. Services available to all eligible persons regardless of race, gender, age, disability or religion. All classes at The Family Center in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH 24-HR RESERVATION. The Family Center • Nurturing Parenting (Mobile) course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-wk rotating series. Held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Mobile, 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100. Call 251-479-5700 to register.

June 5: Giving Choices & Consequences June 12: Communication Skills & Community Resources June 19: Behavior Charts & Token Economies June 26: Home Safety • Nurturing Parenting (Daphne), everything you need to know but were afraid to ask. Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Jump in on any Thursday! Call 251-626-1610 to register, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. June 6: Giving Choices & Consequences June 13: Communication Skills & Community Resources June 20: Behavior Charts & Token Economies June 27: Home Safety • Fathers Rock!

Classes (listed below) in Mobile and Daphne are completely free. Fathers Rock classes offer you free Wal-mart giftcards up to $150, free supper, free gas cards or bus passes, free parent coaching and childcare during class is free! All class materials are free and a certificate of completion is awarded.

Participants who refer a friend to a Fathers Rock program receive a $10 giftcard! Must call to schedule advance intake appointment. www. familycentermobile.org.

Fathers Rock! Mobile Classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., $150 worth of Wal-mart giftcards possible. 251-479-5700 to get started in Fathers Rock, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Mobile, 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100. www.familycentermobile.org or www.

Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile.

June 3: What is an Intentional Family?

June 10: Parenting Together, Fathers & Mothers June 17: Building Friendships: Strokes, Values, Listening June 24: A Child’s Needs: Financial, Time, Modeling, Etc. Together We Can: Helping Everyone Cope With Divorce. Mondays, 8 weeks. $50 Wal-mart giftcard upon completion.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Family Calendar • Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men. Tuesdays, 12 weeks. $75 WalMart giftcard upon completion.

June 4: Involvement in Social Modeling June 11: Consistent Moral Training & Making A Life Change June 18: The Father Thirst Epidemic June 25: The Four Whole Life Needs of Children • Chill Skills. Thursdays, 4 weeks. $25 Wal-mart giftcard upon completion.

June 6: Defining, Responding To & Learning from Anger June 13: Defining Abuse & Learning to Cope & Communicate June 20: Stress, Anger Management & Acceptance, Relaxation June 27: Emotional Intelligence & Techniques Fathers Rock Daphne, Call 251-626-1610 to register, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd, near the YMCA. • Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men, $75 giftcard upon completion.

Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

June 3: Why Fathers Are Important June 10: Children Need Their Fathers June 17: It Takes A Man to be a Dad June 24: My Challenges as a Dad Shepherd’s Place (Christian Life Center) Ministry for memory & physically challenged.

Mondays & Wednesdays 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 South Section Street, Fairhope. 928-1148.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

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Tango by the Bay ~ Argentine Basic classes are held every Tuesday from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. in Fairhope at Southern Edge Dance Studio, located behind Pizza Hut across from Thomas Hospital. 251 South Greeno, Fairhope. $5 per class (fee may be higher with special guest instructors). For more information Contact Ben Samel at 605-2657 or Cassie Fishbein 377-4069, cassief13@aol.com.

South Baldwin Regional Medical Center offers the following classes: Your entire family can take part in several informative classes designed to help moms and dads welcome their special new addition to the family with more confidence. Classes cover topics including: Having A Healthy Pregnancy Nutrition, discomforts of pregnancy, warning signs of complications, and relaxation exercises. One session.

Cost: $10.

Prepared Childbirth Classes (Once a week for four weeks). Cost: $30 Week 1: Begin the Stages of Labor: The labor and delivery process, signs and stages of labor, options for coping, pain management, vaginal delivery, and relaxation exercises.

Week 2: Delivery and Cesarean Birth: A review of complications that may arise, use of special equipment, complete the stages of labor, cesarean delivery, and relaxation exercises.

Week 3: New Born and Postpartum Care: Newborn appearance, caring for the newborn, infant safety, recognizing complications, relaxation exercises, and choosing a pediatrician. What to expect after delivery,

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understanding the physical and emotional changes to your body, and relaxation exercises.

Week 4: The Art of Breast Feeding: The benefits of breast feeding for mother and baby, anatomy and physiology of the breast, how to breastfeed, and common difficulties. One session.

• Tiny Toes members may enroll in Yoga, Water Aerobics and Expectant Mother Exercise classes through the Snook Family YMCA. The fee is $5 a class. There is a $3 fee for child care. There is no fee if you are already a member of the YMCA. All classes are located at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center–1613 North McKenzie Street Foley.

Tuesday evenings 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Classroom A. Located just off of the main lobby.

• Please plan to attend the Healthy Pregnancy Class during your first trimester and the Prepared Childbirth Classes anytime after your 24th week of pregnancy. For more information or to enroll please call the OB Educator at 949-3676 to schedule. We look forward to sharing this special time with you!

Method of payment accepted: Visa, Master Card, Discover, AmEx, Debit Card.

Gift of Life The Gift of Life is a required maternity care program for Medicaid patients or Medicaid-eligible patients.

The Gift of Life Program provides a caring system of prenatal services; education and care coordination for expectant moms and their babies. For additional information please contact 949-3781.

Thomas Hospital offers the following classes: Breastfeeding Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Monthly, first

Advertising: 251-929-2099

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Family Calendar Tuesday, 6 - 8 p.m. Free.

Infant CPR and Safety Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Pre-registration required. To register call 279-1373. Saturdays, 4 - 6 p.m.

Moving Through Labor Childbirth Classes Three or four-week prepared childbirth class series which prepares the mother-to-be and her support partner for the labor and delivery experience. $30 fee for the class series.

Thomas Fitness Center, (Fairhope) Mondays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope) Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Tuesdays, 6-8:30 p.m.

Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Thursdays, 6-8 p.m.

Pre-registration required. Call 251- 279-1373 or visit www.thomashospital.com for upcoming classes and registration.

Natural Childbirth Classes, Fertility Awareness, Mother’s Comfort, Exercise and Nutrition For class schedule or more information call Geralyn Piizzotti, 251- 928-9396. Yourbodyyourbirth@ bellsouth.net.

Newborn Basics Class Held on the second Monday of every month from 6 – 8 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Free.

No Pre-registration required.

Pre-admission Sessions 6 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne.

Pre-registration required.

Sibling Class Thomas Hospital Fitness Center (Fairhope).

Pre-registration required. To register call 279-1373. 10 - 11 a.m.

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Thomas Hospital offers the following support groups for the community: Alanon (Alcoholics Anonymous) Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 800-4771104 for more information.

Alateen Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room East Tower meeting room at Thomas Hospital. Call 391-1152 for more information.

Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 345-7645 or 438-9590 for more information.

ALS Support Group Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month from 11 a.m. to noon at Thomas Medical Center. Call 205-937-4415 for more information.

Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Health Resource Center located at: 308 S. Greeno Road, Fairhope. Call 928-8650 for more information.

Cancer Support Group-Family Connected by Ribbons Support group for cancer survivors, friends and family. Open to any types of cancer. Every first Thursday of every month from 6 - 8 p.m. Morphy Conference Room (Old ER entrance) at Thomas Hospital, Fairhope. Preregistration not required. Call 209-1229 for more information.

Cancer Support Group for Women Meetings are held the first Thursday of every month

from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room.

For more information, call Patti Huval at 209-1229.

Diabetes Support Group Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Diabetes Center. Call 279-1700 for more information.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Support Group Meetings are held every Thursday night from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 251965-6264 for more information.

Parkinson’s Support Group Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month from noon to 1 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251- 455-9919 for more information.

Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Support Group Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center.

Call 251- 626-6337 for more information.

Saturday, June 1

Alabama Gulf Coast Farmer’s Market Gulf State Park Pavilion, 8 a.m. - 12 noon. Contact Jon Kittrell at 251/990-9088 or Jody Young 251/9434678 for more info.

Thunder On The Gulf Gulf Coast Powerboat Association Powerboat Race Welcome Party at The Flora Bama. Visit thunderonthegulf.com for more info.

Nature Trails Day Kick -off to Great Outdoor Month Guided nature walk, 10 a.m. - 12 noon. Meet the park guide from the Alabama Gulf State at the Gulf

Come see us. We’re in a good mood, but...

Feed an alligator!

Call for details.

Have the best Birthday Party ever here at Nature walk on elevated boardwalk.

Alligator Alley!

View alligator feedings.

..with an attitude!

See over 300 alligators up close!

Get up close and personal with big alligators!

Field Trips/Birthday Parties available.

Fun for the entire family!

Safe for kids!

Open Every Day 10am- 5pm!

1-866-99-GATOR 19950 Hwy 71 • Summerdale, AL Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

www.gatoralleyfarm.com 71

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Family Calendar Oak Ridge Trail on State Rd. 2. ADA accessible and approximately 2 miles. www.alapark.com.

Grandman Triathlon Begins with 1/3 mile swim in Mobile Bay, 18 mile bike ride through Fairhope, and a 3.1 mile run along the bay in Fairhope. Call 251-433-4220 for more info or visit www.thegrandman.com.

Sunday, June 2

Jubilee Kids Triathlon by Page and Pallet 7:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., this SWIM, BIKE, RACE event is for children age 7-15. All proceeds will help fund the Good Life Fitness Trail by the pier. Register at www.thegoodlifefound.org or visit www.pageandpalette.com. (251) 928-5295.

Gulf Coast Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty 7 p.m., Foley Civic Center. Tickets available at HL Hood at the Wharf. $10 adults, $5 students. The classic ballet involving a princess, a frog, a prince and a spell.

Monday, June 3

Nature Time at Gulf State Park Adventure Center 2-4 p.m., www.alapark.com. Learning new and exciting facts about animals that live in Alabama’s Gulf State Park. For people of all ages and allows you to get acquainted with some of the educational animals at the nature center.

Daphne Library Summer Reading Kickoff 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Daphne Civic Center, “Flow Circus!” Free food, fun and entertainment.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

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Wednesday, June 5

Mobile Ballet Angelina Ballerina Storytime 11 a.m., Page and Palette Bookstore, 32 S. Section Street, Fairhope.

Team Warrior 4EVER Run The Orange Beach Team Warriors 4EVER team has partnered with Tacky Jacks, a local restaurant where they will be staging a run every Wednesday.

TeamWarriors 4EVER is a non profit organization aimed at raising money and awareness for a wounded and fallen veterans and their families. info@ teamwarriors4ever.com 6:30 p.m.

Page and Palette Book Signing: Kent Wascom For more details visit www.pageandpalette.com.

Guided Beach Walk 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Meet the guide at the fireplace at the Gulf State Park Pavilion and learn about the ecosystem. Walk along the shore with the guide learning about local sea life.

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore. Enjoy a special program about the Bellingrath Gardens and Home, gardening, local history and nature. Admission $12 for adults, $6.50 for kids 6-12. Call 251-973-2217 for reservations.

Today’s feature “Summer Garden Walk with Barbara Smith”, Bellingrath’s Display Manager.

Thursday, June 6

Art in the Park Sponsored by Daphne Recreation. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Free. W.O. Lott Park in Daphne, on Main St. (251)

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621-3703. www.daphneal.com/recreation.

Fairhope’s Summer Outdoor Market Thursday afternoons from 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. through July 12. Offering fresh produce, local honey, fresh cut flowers, plants, baked goods and more! The market will be held behind the Fairhope Public Library at Bancroft St and Fairhope Ave. www.cofairhope.com.

Guided Pier Walk Gulf State park, Gulf Shores., 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Meet the guide near the concession stand to learn more about our unique sea life along the pier.

Friday, June 7

Shrimp Basket Giving Run First Annual 5k run and 1 mile fun run. 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. www.shrimpbasket.com or 251-968-8639. Gulf Shores.

First Friday Artwalk Downtown Fairhope, 6 – 8 p.m. Exhibit openings with guest artists, refreshments and live entertainment at a variety of venues; map of participating venues, including specialty shops and restaurants, available at the Eastern Shore Art Center, 401 Oak St., Fairhope. (251) 928-2228 www.esartcenter.com.

First Friday Author Round up-Keith Currie 6 p.m., Page and Palette, Fairhope. www. pageandpalette.com.

Foley Farmers Market West side of Heritage Park, Every Friday in June from 3-6 p.m. Boasts everything from seasonal fruits

Advertising: 251-929-2099

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Family Calendar and veggies to honey, seafood baked goods, plants and soaps.

Music and a Movie, Hotel Transylvania Heritage Park in Foley- 6 p.m. Each week live music will begin at 6 p.m, followed by a family move around sunset. Admission is free, but some concessions will be on site for purchase. For complete entertainment schedule contact lhula@ cityoffoley.org or visitfoley.org.

Saturday, June 8

Alabama Gulf Coast Farmer’s Market Gulf State Park Pavilion, 8 a.m.-12 p.m., Contact Jon Kittrell at 251/990-9088 or Jody Young 251/9434678 for more info.

Nature Time at Gulf State Park Adventure Center 2-4 p.m., www.alapark.com. Learning new and exciting facts about animals that live in Alabama’s Gulf State Park. For people of all ages and allows you to get acquainted with some of the educational animals at the nature center.

The Causeway 5K &Health Expo 7:15 a.m., Battleship USS Alabama. Visit www. alabamateenchallenge.org for more info.

Wednesday, June 12

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Wet and Wild Wednesdays Lott Park Daphne, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 251-621-3703.

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore. Enjoy a special program about the Bellingrath Gardens and Home, gardening, local

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Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

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history and nature. Admission $12 for adults, $6.50 for kids 6-12. Call 25-1973-2217 for reservations.

Today’s feature “Vertical Gardening with Sherry Melton from Zimlich Patio Shop”.

Thursday, June 13

Guided Nature Walk 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Meet the park guide from the Alabama Gulf State at the Gulf Oak Ridge Trail on State Rd. 2. ADA accessible and approximately 2 miles. www.alapark.com.

Friday, June 14

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival Held over Father’s Day weekend and located at the Foley Soccer Complex, approximately 50 balloonists from across the country participate in this event.

There will be food and arts and craft vendors, live entertainment, a children’s village and more.

Balloons will fly (weather permitting) early in the morning and at dusk. For more information call (251) 943-3291 or visit www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com.

Saturday, June 15

Hot Air Balloon Festival See June 14.

LuLu’s Hot Trot for ARC LuLu’s Homeport marina, Gulf Shores, 7:30 a.m.-12 p.m. 5KRun and 1 mile fun run to benefit the ARC of Baldwin County, 251-947-4111.

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Babypalooza Baby and Maternity Expo 10 a.m.-3 p.m, Government Plaza, Mobile. Day of fun and entertainmentdesigned to help you connect with local baby and maternity resources and info to help care for you and your baby. Free.

Sandy Sansing Fundraiser for American Cancer Society 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For every person who test drives a new Ford this day, Ford Motor Company and Sandy Sansing will donate $20 (up to $6000) to the American Cancer Society. Must be 18 with a valid driver’s license.

Alabama Gulf Coast Farmer’s Market Gulf State Park Pavilion. 8 a.m.-12 p.m., Contact Jon Kittrell at 251/990-9088 or Jody Young 251/9434678 for more info.

Junie B. Jones Smelly Stupid Bus Tour 2 p.m., Fairhope Elementary School Auditorium, www.pageandpalette.com or 251-928-5295 for more info.

Sunday, June 16 Father’s Day Hot Air Balloon Festival See June 14.

Monday, June 17

Turtle Hurtles 10 a.m. Gulf State park, Gulf Shores. Meet at the Gulf State Park nature Center to participate in a highly physically active simulation game to learn

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Family Calendar about the life and survival of Loggerhead Sea Turtles.

Page and Palette Book Signing: Khaled Hosseini 6 p.m., Page and Palette, Fairhope. Discussion and Book Signing.

Wednesday, June 19

Wet and Wild Wednesdays Lott Park Daphne, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 251-621-3703.

Guided Pier Walk Gulf State park, Gulf Shores., 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Meet the guide near the concession stand to learn more about our unique sea life along the pier.

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore. Enjoy a special program about the Bellingrath Gardens and Home, gardening, local history and nature. Admission $12 for adults, $6.50 for kids 6-12. Call 25-1973-2217 for reservations.

Today’s feature “The Poetry of Faith: Sermons preached in a Southern Church”. Lecture and book signing with Dr. Stephen Dill and Mr. Frye Gaillard.

Thursday, June 20

Page and Palette Book Signing: Laura Moriarty 6 p.m., Page and Palette, Fairhope. Discussion and Book Signing.

Friday, June 21

Foley Farmers Market West side of Heritage Park, Every Friday in June from 3-6 p.m. Boasts everything from seasonal fruits

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and veggies to honey, seafood baked goods, plants and soaps.

Farmers Market Music and a Movie in Heritage Park Hairspray Heritage Park in Foley, 6 p.m. Each week live music will begin at 6 p.m., followed by a family move around sunset. Admission is free, but some concessions will be on site for purchase. Bring your lawn chairs and picnic baskets (or purchase concessions sold on site) and come out to Heritage Park for an evening under the stars! (251) 943-1300 / www.cityoffoley.org.

Nature Time at Gulf State Park Adventure Center 2-4 p.m. www.alapark.com. Learning new and exciting facts about animals that live in Alabama’s Gulf State Park. For people of all ages and allows you to get acquainted with some of the educational animals at the nature center.

Saturday, June 22

Owl Fun facts 2 p.m.-4 p.m, Gulf State Park Nature Center, Gulf Shores. Learn all about owls. Resident screech owls will be out for pictures.

Tuesday, June 25

Guided Pier Walk Gulf State park, Gulf Shores. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Meet the guide near the concession stand to learn more about our unique sea life along the pier.

Wednesday, June 26

Page and Palette: Read it and Eat with Karen White 12 p.m., Page and Palette, Fairhope. www.pageandpalette.com.

Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore. Enjoy a special program about the Bellingrath Gardens and Home, gardening, local history and nature. Admission $12 for adults, $6.50 for kids 6-12. Call 25-1973-2217 for reservations.

Today’s feature “Creating Cascading Mums with Bellingrath’s Chuck Owens”.

Wet and Wild Wednesdays Lott Park Daphne, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 251-621-3703.

Thursday, June 27

Fairhope’s Summer Outdoor Market Thursday afternoons from 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. through July 12. Offering fresh produce, local honey, fresh cut flowers, plants, baked goods and more! The market will be held behind the Fairhope Public Library at Bancroft St and Fairhope Ave. www.cofairhope.com.

Mobile Museum of Art Market in the Park Thursdays, 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. Through July 26. Enjoy live music while you stroll the Museum grounds this spring where vendors will be on hand selling flowers, produce and other locally made goods at this open air market. Pick up market favorites such as wine, honey, fresh seafood, organic soap and a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables. Stop by the children’s activity center and let the little ones

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paint en plein air or try one of the make and take art projects. Admission to the Museum is free during market hours. (251) 208-5209. www.mobilemuseumofart.com.

Friday, June 28

Foley Farmers Market West side of Heritage Park, Every Friday in June from 3-6 p.m. Boasts everything from seasonal fruits and veggies to honey, seafood baked goods, plants and soaps.

Farmers Market Music and a Movie in Heritage Park Babe, the Gallant Pig. Heritage Park in Foley. Each week live music will begin at 6 p.m., followed by a family move around sunset. Admission is free, but some concessions will be on site for purchase. Bring your lawn chairs and picnic baskets (or purchase concessions sold on site) and come out to Heritage Park for an evening under the stars! (251) 943-1300 / www.cityoffoley.org.

Saturday, June 29

Nature Time at Gulf State Park Adventure Center 2-4 p.m., www.alapark.com. Learning new and exciting facts about animals that live in Alabama’s Gulf State Park. For people of all ages and allows you to get acquainted with some of the educational animals at the nature center.

Alabama Gulf Coast Farmer’s Market Gulf State Park Pavilion, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Contact Jon Kittrell at 251/990-9088 or Jody Young 251/943-4678 for more info.

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• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •

New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.

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We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.

B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS

Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!

We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?

Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more!

We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16...

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Only 1 /Mountain 2 hours from Huntsville Located on top of Lookout in Mentone, AL. Only a 5 hr drive.

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1 & 2Week Sessions for Ages 6-16

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Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness...

I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,

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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.

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Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

Epic

Fast & Furious 6

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: BSexual Content: A Language: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Epic PG for mild action, some scary images and brief rude language.

For a movie with a hyperbolic title like Epic and a tagline that reads “discover a world beyond your imagination”, this animated production is disappointingly average and unimaginative. In many ways if feels like Avatar for six-year-olds, but without the happy ending or overt environmental message.

The heroes in the story are leaf men, tiny soldiers who patrol the forest while riding on the backs of birds. They protect Queen Tara (voice by Beyonce Knowles), the ruler and preserver of the woodlands. Mandrake (voice

by Christoph Waltz), their enemy who dresses in rat pelts and badly needs dental work, leads an army of gruesome characters made up of undesirable forest creatures like mice, bats and pesky mosquitoes.

As with all stereotypical villains who want to take over the world, he plans to destroy it first. To do so Mandrake must capture a magical bud that will determine the next ruler when it blooms. But just as he is about to snatch the unopened blossom from the hands of the dying queen, she tosses it to Mary Katherine (voice by Amanda Seyfried), a huge human teen who suddenly shrinks to the size of the other miniscule forest inhabitants.

The focus on epic battles involving arrows, swordplay and midair dogfights as well as scores of characters, allows little time for character or script development. And what minutes there are for the plotline are sliced and diced into multiple narratives including a troubled daddy/daughter relationship between Mary Katherine and her absent-minded father (voice by Jason Sudeikis), a headstrong young soldier (voice by Josh Hutcherson) who snubs the advice of his wiser mentor (voice by Colin Farrell) and a typical comic relief duo (voices by Chris O’Dowd and Aziz Ansari).

While young and less jaded viewers (who haven’t seen this script multiple times) may buy into the adventure, parents should note that moments of peril, hand-to-hand combat and the death of a prominent character may be too intense for young children. And though there’s an absence of other content concerns, there’s also a scarcity of charm in this animated adventure.

Considering the price of movie tickets, maybe the filmmakers should have stuck with quaint over epic.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: D Violence: D+ Sexual Content: C+ Language: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Fast & Furious 6 PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action and mayhem throughout, some sexuality and language.

Sticking with the same formula of fast cars and scantily clad women, the production crew fudges the series’ time frame in order to bring back characters already killed off in previous films. So don’t let deceased team members from The Fast and The Furious Tokyo Drift confuse you. They aren’t dead yet.

In the meantime, this script rounds out this cast of fast-driving, lawbreakers to make them even more appealing to audiences. A healthy dose of humor, plenty of buddy moments and a new baby all do their part to take the edge off these characters who are living in exotic locations around the globe while enjoying the fruits of their last million dollar heist. The only hitch is they have to stay in countries without extradition laws that would send them back to the U.S. to face charges.

However their life on the lam promises to come to an end when Dom Toretto (Vin Diesel) gets an unexpected visit from Agent Luke Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson). Hobbs is closing in on Owen Shaw (Luke Evans), a ruthless thief who specializes in vehicular warfare. He plans to steal a military computer chip that will sell for bazillions of dollars on the black market. As is often the case in movies, the only people Hobbs can rely on to get Shaw in cuffs is Dom and his team of fellow felons (Paul Walker, Tyrese Gibson, Sung Kang, Gal Gadot and Ludacris).

While there is less street racing merely for the pleasure of putting pedestrians and property at risk of death or destruction, the film still includes a plethora of car chases, explosive crashes, bullets and bikinis. But while the morals in this script are all wrong, the film unfortunately does a brilliant job of selling irresponsibility and high-octane action. In the end these criminals name their price for their part in preserving the American dream, which in this case seems to be the right to recklessly drive fast cars, steal exorbitant amounts of money and hold the law-abiding public hostage with their demands. And they do it all in the name of family. Any parent, with or without street smarts, will want to steer their children clear of these delinquent drivers.

What Parents need to know about Fast & Furious 6...

Violence: Numerous explosions, scenes of gunfire and other weapon use are depicted. A character blows up a parking area and building killing a large number of police officers and others. A woman shoots a man in the chest. Two women rough up a man in order to get information. Frequent gunfire is exchanged, resulting in the death of at least one man. A man’s head is repeatedly hit against a glass partition until he is knocked out. Women and men engage in brutal fistfights. Characters are also stabbed, choked, punched, run over, hit by cars and dragged. Frequent intense action, brief explicit violence and disturbing scenes are portrayed with limited blood.

Sexual Content: An unmarried couple is shown in bed together with bare backs and chests, but no explicit nudity. Numerous characters wear bikinis or provocative clothing. Suggestive comments are made about male anatomy.

Other sexual innuendo is included. Characters embrace and kiss.

Language: One use of a strong sexual expletive, one crude hand gesture and frequent profanities, scatological slang, terms of deity, and vulgar expressions.

Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters drink on several occasions.

What Parents need to know about Epic...

Violence: Swords, bows and arrows, clubs and fists are all used as weapons in this film. Characters engage in frequent battles and face numerous moments of peril. Midair dogfights occur between opposing forces. A female character is shot with an arrow and dies. Another character falls to his death.

Characters are chased and attacked by animals. A man makes a reference to a pet that died from neglect. Characters shock one another with build-up from static electricity. A man is shot in the buttocks with an arrow. Household items are knocked over or broken during a chase scene. Characters are shown with bruises and lacerations. Moments of peril and suspense include scary or frightening depictions.

Sexual Content: Characters kiss briefly.

Language: Brief name-calling is included in the script.

Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted.

Eastern Shore Parents I June 2013

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