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October 21 NICU Reunion October 23 Lights of Love Tree-Lighting November 29 Trick or Trot
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September2016
Volume 9 Number 4
46 Columns
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6 Publisher’s Note Lynn Knighton
8 Living With Children John Rosemond
Parenting Special Needs Kids
Gentle Ways to Quiet Your Chatterbox Help your child manage her compulsion to talk, talk, talk.
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7 habits of highly effective parents of special needs children.
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16 Kids Health Watch
sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
34 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs
36 Dave Says Dave Ramsey
42 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston
2016 Special Needs Resource Guide
Local and national resources assist you in caring for your child.
The Misunderstood Child
44 Get This!
Learn the ins and outs of sensory processing disorder.
Gerry Paige Smith
72 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
On The Cover
Departments
Emersen Sumrall (3) is the daughter of Brian and Jenny Sumrall and sister to Ella (8), Laken (6), and Nora (7 months). She enjoys riding horses at Buckaroo Barn, reading books, and swimming. Most of all, Emersen loves spending time playing with her sisters.
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Bits and Pieces 18
School Bits 74
Family Calendar 84
Movie Reviews
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Publisher’sNote The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source
Most people look to New Year’s Day as a time to reflect on the past year and make plans for the future. For me however, I have always found the start of a new school year to be the perfect opportunity for change. I spent some time near the end of summer break putting together healthy meal plans, looking into extracurricular activities (including something for me), reassigning household responsibilities, and mapping out a new schedule for our family. I thought sitting down and having all of this organized would help me feel better about the “Back to School” routine, but it only made me realize how much there really is going on. I wonder how in the world we are going to pull it off again this year. Somehow we always manage, I just feel that some families pull it off a little more gracefully than we do at times. There are some families that truly amaze me with how they handle everything going on in their lives. Those are the families with special needs children. I cannot imagine how difficult it is to not only have the daily pressures that typical families have, but to add to that the challenges of extra doctors’ appointments, therapies, research time, and the extra planning it may take just to get out the door. And none of that even accounts for the added mental stress these families must feel. Each September we publish our Special Needs Issue and I have the opportunity to talk with some of these exceptional families. As I said, they truly do amaze me because, despite the daily challenges, these families look at each day as a blessing. Their eyes sparkle and a smile covers their face as they talk about their very special children. There is a lot typical families can learn from these “special” parents. In Judy Miller’s article 7 Habits of Highly Effective Parents of Children with Special Needs there are some wonderful habits all families should practice. I would like to reiterate one very important habit that is not included in that article, and that is to view each day as a blessing. Many of the families we talk to mention how difficult it can be to find the resources they need and want for their families. Each September we include our Special Needs Resource Guide to help families find activities, therapies, support groups and other services to assist them on their parenting journey. The guide is a collaboration of ideas from various families who tell us about resources, along with research done by our team. We have added several new resources this year too, including Tommy Hilfiger’s new line of adaptive clothing, a Joyful Journey blog that includes several additional interesting resources, and a fun local event this month for special needs families, Captains for Kids. All families will want to check out this month’s Family Calendar. It is filled with many fun local events including charity 5Ks, farmer’s markets, a variety of festivals, and of course, the fair! I hope everyone has adjusted to their new school schedules and is ready to take on fall!
Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Christa Weinberg Contributing Writers Mark Gregston Christa Melnyk Hines Carolyn Jabs Sarah Lyons Judy M. Miller Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Robert L. Rux, M.D. Gerry Paige Smith
Cover Photography Janel Gaye www.janelgayephotography.com
President Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com Advertising Opportunities Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall Traci Calvert Danielle Nicholas ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099 Ad Design Tim Welch
Visit us online at www.easternshoreparents.com
Lynn
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 2015 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.
lynn@easternshoreparents.com
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
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.
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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond
Advice on Being a Step-Parent Q:
The woman I’ve been dating—a single mom with two young boys—and I have decided to get married. My only reservation, and I’ve told her this, concerns the stepfather thing. I’m not clear and really neither is she on the proper role and responsibilities of stepfathers, especially in the area of discipline. She reads your column religiously and told me to ask you for advice. It would be most appreciated.
A: I happen to have extensive experience in this area, given that I grew up with a stepfather in what is today known as a step-family. Before my mother remarried when I was almost seven, she gave me some invaluable information and very good advice. The invaluable information consisted of telling me that when I was in my stepfather’s home, he was “the father.” Her very good advice was that I was to respect and obey him as well as I respected and obeyed her, which was a high standard. My mother’s little talk let me know that her primary allegiance was no longer to me; it was to her new partner, as it should have been.
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
The reason that the risk of divorce is higher in a second marriage where one or both parties is bringing children in tow is because my mother’s attitude is no longer the norm. In fact, even such highly respected people as Dr. Phil advise that in step-families, a parent should only discipline his or her biological children. Mincing no words (my habit), that is extremely bad advice. It sets up a situation where parenting conflicts are nearly inevitable. The problem actually begins before the second marriage. Following divorce, a single mom tends to center her life around her kids. (I realize, by the way, that there are many variations on custody and visitation, so I have decided to keep things simple and talk in terms of the most common—the mother has primary custody.) Her eventual second husband, no fool, sees what is happening and realizes he must successfully “court” both her and her kids. He tries his best to be a fun guy. In the process of all this, and on both sides of this coin, very dysfunctional precedents are being set. After the marriage, the precedents in question lead to a set of predictable difficul-
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ties: the children complain to their mother when stepdad tries to discipline; mom reinforces their resentment by adopting a territorial, protective attitude toward them; and the stepfather begins to feel that he is a “secondclass citizen” in his own home. I am firm in my conviction that from the get-go, the step-parent, whether male or female, must have complete disciplinary discretion where step-children are concerned. In other words, there is no special set of rules or restrictions that apply uniquely to step-parents. When the parties involved believe that “step” is the operative word, as opposed to “parent” or “family,” that’s when the problems begin. As someone else has put it, “When you think of yourself as a step, it becomes inevitable that you will be stepped on.” By the way, most mental health professionals claim that kids resent it when they are disciplined by step-parents. My retort is, “So what?” Kids usually resent being disciplined, period, no matter who the discipliner is. Besides, kids do not know what they need; they only know what they want, and they usually want what is not in their best interests. Which is why they need parents for at least 18 years. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions at www.johnrosemond.com and parentguru.com.
www.easternshoreparents.com
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Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
Join the Fight Against Cancer
Guests can experience one of Mobile’s premier philanthropic events as we join together to save lives and party for a cause. The American Cancer Society (ACS) will host the Vintage Affair Gala- presented by Lexus of Mobile on Thursday, September 29 at the Alabama Cruise Terminal from 6-9 p.m. Enjoy an evening filled with exquisite cuisine by Clifton Morrissette, fine wines from Red or White and the exciting sounds of the Crowned Jewelz Band. Sure to thrill are the live and silent auctions which include fabulous trips, estate jewelry and original local art featuring artist Ashley Terrell. Tickets for the event are $125 and can be purchased online at www. vintageaffairmobile.org or by calling 251.344.9858.
29th Annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup
Show your support and concern for Alabama's waterways by participating in the 29th Annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup scheduled for Saturday, September 17, from 8:00 a.m. until noon. You or your organization can make a difference by volunteering to clean up our cherished coastal area. In its twenty-eight year effort to clean up the coast, over 83,000 volunteers have removed more than 1.5 million pounds of trash from Alabama's valued coastline and waterways. Join us this year as we continue to make Alabama the Beautiful! For more information about how to get involved please visit www. alabamacoastalcleanup.com or call (251) 621-1216.
Wind Creek Casino & Hotel - Atmore presents the 10th Annual ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun’ fundraiser benefit for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile on Thursday, September 15, from 5:30 – 9:00 p.m. at the Daphne Civic Center. This “must do” event is an evening for ladies 21 years of age and older and features heavy hors d’oeuvres from local area chefs and restaurants, McTini’s and an unforgettable evening of manicures, makeovers, shopping, entertainment and more. Tickets for Girls Just Wanna Have Fun are available for $50 in advance or for $60 at the door. Attendees also have the opportunity to purchase additional tickets for a stylish “PurseOnality” at $25 or $50 which includes a purse – and a surprise gift inside valued at that (or more!) Proceeds from ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun’ directly benefits Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile supporting families through their Ronald McDonald House and Ronald McDonald Family Rooms. For more information about Girls Just Wanna Have Fun and to purchase advance event and Purse-Onality tickets, please visit www.rmhcmobile.org or call 251-694-6873.
9th Annual GO Run
Join us for the 9th Annual GO Run 5K and one mile Fun Run/Walk presented by Catranis Family Charitable Foundation, which will be held September 17 at the University of South Alabama Moulton Tower & Alumni Plaza. All GO Run proceeds will benefit gynecologic cancer research at the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. The 5K will begin at 8:00 a.m. and Fun Run at 9:00 a.m. The event will include prizes, music, vendor booths, food, and children’s activities. Families, schools, corporations and friends are encouraged to form teams of six or more to participate. Each team will be eligible to win awards for a variety of categories for example, team with most members, most spirited team, best dressed team, and many more. Individual awards will also be given in all age categories. Please visit www. usamci.com/gorun for more information.
Walk to End Alzheimer’s and Party in the Park
The Eastern Shore Walk to End Alzheimer’s and Inaugural Party in the Park will take place Saturday, September 10 at the Henry George Park in Fairhope. The walk starts at 9:30 a.m. with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m. After the walk the Party in the Park will kick off at 11 a.m. and last until 2 p.m. Both events are free to all. The party in the park will feature music, pet adoption sponsored by The Pet Haven, bouncy house for the kids along with many other games and entertainment for the whole family. For more information or to register contact Jack Waldroup, 251-625-0802 or visit act.alz.org. Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
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Cooking for the Community Boston Butt Sale
Captains for Kids Special Needs Day of Fun on the Water
Cooking for the Community is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping area families in need. Over the past few years this organization has restored homes in disrepair, fixing leaky roofs, windows, mold infestation and plumbing problems, and they upgraded multiple ramps to be wheelchair-compatible, just to name a few. They are also excited to be sponsoring 30 school children in the Fairhope Rotary Youth Club for after-school tutoring and “Enrichment Academy” programs during the summer. Cooking for the Community’s goal is to expand efforts in both areas and make a greater impact in the lives and in the communities they serve. In order to do this they are proud to announce this year’s fundraiser, the 6th Annual Cooking for the Community Boston Butt Sale! You can purchase a Boston Butt for $35 online or over the phone by calling 251-210-1229. Orders must be placed by Saturday, September 24th. Pickup date is Saturday, October 8th between 9 a.m. and 12 noon at Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church, 23050 Highway 98, Fairhope. If you would like to become more involved please visit them on Facebook at www. facebook.com/cookingforthecommunity and share their journey with friends. They also invite you to visit the website and volunteer at www.CFTCbbq.com. If you are interested in becoming a personal or corporate sponsor for this wonderful event, please call or simply sign up on the website.
Captains for Kids offers a free fun day on the water for kids with special needs and illnesses by providing: fishing charters, sailing excursions, parasailing rides, dolphin cruises and water banana rides. Most events have space for the parents and sometimes a sibling or two to tag along. All activities are free of charge. Captains for Kids offers these activities at many different beach locations and marinas in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Perdido Key, Pensacola Beach, Destin, Ft. Walton Beach and Key Largo, Florida. Each event has a maximum seating capacity so pre-registration is required for each person in order to give you a smooth experience and to provide a passenger manifest to the captain. We will be having this year’s event on Saturday, September 10 with a rain day on Sunday the 13th. For more information, to register or to become get involved in this event call 850-438-5555, visit our website, www.captainsforkids.com or find us on Facebook!
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Down Syndrome Society of Mobile Buddy Walk®
The 9th Annual Mobile Buddy Walk® will take place at Bienville Square on October 15, at 10:00 a.m. More than 1,100 people are expected to attend the event, which is one of over 250 Walks across the country this fall to raise awareness and funds for programs that benefit people with Down syndrome and their families. “Buddy Walks are fantastic events where smiles are shared, hugs are free, games are played and most importantly - footsteps are heard as we all walk together to support people with Down syndrome," said Imagination Mover Scott Durbin. The Buddy Walk® welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. The goals of the walk are to raise awareness and promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. All funds raised through the Buddy Walk® support local programs. The Mobile Buddy Walk® will feature live music, games, petting zoo and much more. To learn more, visit www. dssmobile.org and click on the Buddy Walk® link at the bottom of the page or contact Cathy Ogarek at Down Syndrome Society of Mobile.
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United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile’s Annual Food and Folly
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of Mobile will host our annual Food and Folly event on Thursday, September 15 from 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. at Fort Whiting Armory (1620 Broad Street). This exciting, Mardi Gras themed event is one of United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile's annual fundraisers. Support our programs and enjoy music, fun, food, dancing, silent auctions, wine tastings and more! Please call (251) 479-4900 for more information.
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Walk to Benefit Suicide Prevention
The City of Daphne will host the Sixth Annual South Alabama Out of the Darkness Community Walk on Sunday, October 16 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in front of Daphne City Hall. The net proceeds from the Out of the Darkness Walk will benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), the leading national not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research, education and advocacy, and reaching out to people with mental disorders and those impacted by suicide. Last year, more than 600 participants met on a beautiful Sunday afternoon and walked with thousands of people nationwide to raise money for this worthy cause. The community of Daphne raised more than $35,000. At least 45 teams were formed in 2015 and were joined by many friends and family members. Each walk site has its own unique remembrance activity in which you can participate to honor a loved one. A memory wall will be set up at the Daphne Walk so pictures, poems and messages can be displayed. There will also be music, food, informational booths and speakers. Suicide is a national health problem that takes an enormous toll on family, friends, coworkers, and the entire community. In the United States, a person dies by suicide every 15 minutes, claiming more than 40,000 lives each year. It is estimated that an attempt is made every minute; with close to one million people attempting suicide annually. With your help, let’s raise awareness, stop the stigma and let’s save lives! If you would like to form a team, join a team or walk on your own, and/or donate, please go to www.outofthedarkness.org. For further information, please email Lydia at jlbarber5@bellsouth.net.
The Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival
The third annual Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival presented by Wind Creek Atmore returns to Main Street Sept. 15-17 with a robust roster of talent. The three-day culinary event will feature more than 20 of the Gulf Coast’s most beloved chefs and restaurants. On Thursday, Sept. 15, the event will kick off with an Alabama Gulf Seafood Chef Showdown at The Palms from 6:30-8:30 p.m. with a cutthroat competition between Chris Sherrill (Flora-Bama Yacht Club), Brody Olive (Perdido Beach Resort) and Chris Kelly (Driftwood Bar & Grille, Ronin Sushi Bar). James Briscione and Brooke Parkhurst, authors of “The Couples Kitchen”, will team up to emcee the Showdown. There will be select vendor wine tasting, an auction preview, an open bar and giveaways. Individual tickets for the kick-off event are $30. Combo tickets for the Chef Showdown and Grand Tasting are $75. Ticket prices will rise last minute pricing to $35/$90. The Wharf Entertainment District will be lined with vendors serving more than 150 labels of wines and small bites for the culinary competition from participating restaurants. In addition, there will be a luxury yacht walk, book signings, both live and silent auctions benefitting Make-A-Wish® Alabama and a high-end tasting tent with wines including: Jordan, Duck Horn, Cannonau di Sardegna and Anastasia Semidano. Tickets are available online through Ticketmaster.com, or at The Wharf box office. For more information, please visit TheWharfUncorked.com.
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Registration Underway for 7th Annual Turkey Trot
The 7th Annual Prodisee Pantry Turkey Trot runs through Old Towne Daphne on Saturday, October 22 with both a 5K Race and a 1-mile Fun Run/Walk. The 5K Race starts at 8 a.m. on Main Street at City Hall. It follows a fast course as it winds through Old Towne Daphne. The Fun Run begins at 9 a.m. Walkers are encouraged to participate in the Fun Run. A family-friendly festival includes free food, inflatables, games and other family activities. Proceeds from the Turkey Trot benefit Prodisee Pantry, Baldwin County's largest nonprofit emergency food pantry. Turkey Trot participants are also encouraged to bring non-perishable canned food donations to the race. The Turkey Trot provides funding for Prodisee Pantry's Thanksgiving project. Each registration equals a turkey! Registration forms are available online at http://prodiseepantry.org/campaigns/turkey-trot-2016. Participants can also register at Running Wild in Fairhope and at Prodisee Pantry. Register by October 10 to be guaranteed a cute t-shirt. Entry fees are $25 for the 5K Race and $10 for the Fun Run by Noon on October 20 for in person and online applications. Late & Race day fees are $30 for the 5K and $15 for the Fun Run. For more information; www.prodiseepantry.org or 251-626-1720 or PA Pet ad.qxp_Layout 1 7/20/15 6:05 PM Page 1 director@prodiseepantry.org.
Camp for Grieving Children
When a child is grieving the loss of a loved one or friend, it is important for them to know that they are not alone with their grief. Gentiva Hospice has developed Camp I Believe, an overnight camp to help children ages 6 – 14 deal with their feelings and become empowered to cope with the loss of their loved one. The camp will be held September 10-11 at Camp Baldwin in Elberta, AL. The campers are able to attend camp free of charge through funding provided by the Kindred Gentiva Hospice Foundation. Camp I Believe is a two-day camp where children can learn to express grief in a healthy, safe environment. Our professional staff and trained volunteers include social workers, spiritual care coordinators, nurses, recreational therapists and bereavement specialists. Campers will be encouraged to not only reflect, but to laugh and play again. The beautiful grounds of Camp Baldwin allow children to heal through nature and a variety of fun activities which include fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, arts and crafts, field games and much more. Camp I Believe is currently seeking campers to participate in the camp. We are also seeking supply donations and volunteers. If you or a friend would like more information, please visit www. kindredgentivahospicefoundation.org or contact Lorrey Chapman with Kindred at Home Hospice directly at 251-621-2500.
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28th Annual Jubilee Festival
The 28th Annual Jubilee Festival is an Eastern Shore tradition hosted by Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce and presented by BMW of Mobile. The Jubilee Festival offers fine art, crafts, great entertainment and great food in Olde Towne Daphne. This family-friendly event is also the home to Kids Art in the Park, offering children the opportunity to enjoy hands-on art projects and games. The 28th Annual Jubilee Festival will take place Saturday and Sunday, September 24 & 25, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Main Street, Olde Towne Daphne, in front of City Hall and Centennial Park. Admission to the festival is free, however tickets are sold separately to participate in the Kids Art in the Park. The hours for Kids Art in the Park are 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Sunday. For more information visit www.eschamber.com/page/Jubilee-Festival-Welcome or find us on Facebook-The Jubilee Festival in Daphne.
Exceptional Foundation Golf Tournament
The Exceptional Foundation Gulf Coast invites you to join them for the 4th Annual EFGC Golf Tournament. The tournament will be held Friday, September 9 at The Lakewood Club. Shotgun start is at 12 noon. Price to participate is $125 per player or $400 for 4 person teams. Sponsorship opportunities are available: Gold Sponsor, $1,000; Silver Sponsor, $500; Putting Green Sponsor, $300; Tee Sponsor $200. Proceeds from the tournament provide the necessary funds to ensure that the Exceptional Foundation Gulf Coast participants are able to gather daily for social activities, field trips, Special Olympic team sports, arts and more. For more information on the golf tournament or EFGC visit www.exceptionalfoundationg.org or call 251-625-8955.
It’s Time for the Baldwin County Fair
The Baldwin County Fair will be held Tuesday, September 20 - Saturday, September 24 at the Baldwin County Coliseum and Arena/ Baldwin County Fairgrounds, 19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale. Daily specials include: Tuesday and Wednesday, September 20 and 21 are Pay One Price Day beginning at 5pm! $12 for admission and all midway rides and entertainment are free (all over 36” tall) No passes honored. Thursday, September 22, senior citizens, military personnel and veterans admitted free from 4-5pm only. Friday, September 23, Admission: Adults $7, Children under 12 years are admitted free. Midway rides, 5pm - 10pm are tickets only. Midnight madness is from 10pm – 1am on Friday with $20 armbands for unlimited rides. Saturday, Sept 24, Adults $7, Children under 12 years are admitted free. Arm Bands for midway rides from 1pm - 5pm are $15. From 5pm - closing, midway rides are tickets only. For more complete list of all the events and attractions or for more information visit the website, baldwincofair.com or call (251) 947-3247 or (251) 947-3492. Before planning your trip, please call or visit the website to confirm times and pricing.
Providence Office 610 Providence Park Dr. E., Suite 201 Mobile, Alabama, 36695 (251) 639-1300 Karen I. Calametti, M.D. Jonathan Holmes, M.D. Catherine W. Huettemann, M.D. Richard E. Huettemann, M.D. Deborah A. Kassner, M.D. Elizabeth S. Weinacker, M.D. Airport Office 3920 Airport Boulevard Mobile, Alabama, 36608 (251) 342-3810 Jennifer G. Adair, M.D. Savannah I. Browning, M.D. Matthew Cepeda, M.D. Michael Little, D.O. Lisa McDonough, M.D. Faye Roberts, M.D. 15
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
The Special Child Needs a Special Family This time of year we are back in school and this is something I want you and your kids to think about. I want to call attention to a group of kids and families whose lives might be a little different than you and me. These children and young adults I am referring to are kids with “special needs” and the families who sacrifice so much to take care of them. When I say special needs, I am referring to kids who have chronic health problems that can range from a preemie baby with complications, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, congenital heart and lung disease, autism, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, and any other life long illness. The families that take care of these children are special in and of themselves. Their devotion to these kids is an amazing story and today, we will meet some of them. When I first met Kevin, I was in the ER at The Children‘s Hospital of Alabama in Birmingham, and I wasn‘t sure what to expect. This was a 26 year old man with a lifelong pediatric illness called Duchenne‘s Muscular Dystrophy, an inherited disorder that affects the muscles and lungs and leads to a severely shortened lifespan. I expected a sad person with a downtrodden family who had dealt with a lifetime of hospitalizations, medicines, and surgeries, but boy was I surprised. I walked into the room to see a smiling, polite young man who was in the middle of telling a story about how he had tricked his little brother into putting a salt-covered lemon in his mouth for 30 seconds, and the parents were cracking up! I
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
thought to myself, how can such a devastating situation lead to this wonderful family laughing about a prank? How would I feel if that were me? How would I feel if that were my child? Cody was a young child of 9 years who I met in Birmingham as well, who was basically a permanent resident of the pulmonary ward. Cody had a severe form of Cystic Fibrosis, a devastating disease that affects not only the lungs, but pancreas, liver, and gut. When I walked into his room, he was on the phone with the local sports talk radio station that broadcasted all over the city and he was talking up NASCAR and Auburn football! He was such an avid fan, that they expected him to call in every afternoon to talk sports! At this point, Cody had been admitted to the hospital for over 6 weeks receiving IV antibiotics and other therapies that he could not get at home. Later that night, I saw him and two other kids with CF wandering the halls and joking around. As we were talking, the other kids drifted off, and we started talking about his family. He was one of 5 kids, and the only one with CF. He hadn’t seen his parents in 5 weeks, mainly because they lived two hours away and had to work two jobs to help take care of not only the other the kids, but to help pay for all of his care at home and in the hospital. I expected him to be sad about his family situation, but in fact, he was so amazed and thankful that his parents worked that hard to support his family. How would I respond? How could I help?
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I have seen numerous kids and families like Kevin and Cody throughout my career and I am constantly amazed at their stories. I know families who sacrifice their entire lives to take care of these kids with special needs, including numerous doctor and hospital visits. I have seen families torn apart by the stress that goes along with the sacrifices they make and I have seen families strengthened by them. So my word of advice to you is to pray for strength for these families and help them any way you can. And help can come in lots of ways—not only a donation to a cause! Sometimes, just a simple smile and hello and acceptance can make a world of difference to these families. One of the most important things a child with special needs can do is be incorporated into mainstream activities. School, sports, and extra-curricular activities are important aspects of a normal childhood and are so important to these kids and families, so be sure to welcome them with open arms and help if you can. A simple hug or pat on the back can go a long way! Finally, teach your kids to do the same. Teach them to be open and accepting to all human beings, especially those with special needs. 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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Autauga County Schools
Honeybee 5K and Corn Hole Tournament
Central Baldwin Education Foundation cordially invites you to participate in the 7th annual CBEF Honeybee 5K/1mile Run and Corn Hole Tournament. This event will raise money to support the students of the Central Baldwin area. The run and festival will be held on Saturday, October 1st, at the Robertsdale Honeybee Park. The 5K and Fun Run will kick off at 8:00 a.m. Runners will begin at the Park and travel a certified course throughout town with the run ending back at the Park. The one-mile fun run will immediately follow the 5k. Medals will be awarded following the fun run. Pre-registration fees are $15 for adults and $10 students. Registration fee the day of the race are $20 for adults and $15 for students. The Corn Hole Tournament will begin at 11:00 a.m. Teams can be any combination of male and female players (2 males, 2 females or 1 male and 1 female). Non-members welcome. $20 NonRefundable Entry Fee per team (2-person teams). Team awards: $50 for 1st place, $30 for 2nd place and $20 for 3rd place. For additional information, to register or to sponsor this event email cbef08@gmail.com or visit www.cbef.org.
Kindergarten Parents Invited to Boo Hoo Breakfast at J. Larry Newton School
Students Meet the Teachers at Foley Elementary
Students at Foley Elementary School were very excited to "Meet the Teacher" the week before school started. Walker is looking forward to all the fun things he will learn in kindergarten this year with his teacher Mrs. Neely.
Morning Announcements at Spanish Fort HS
Carter Grantham and Molly Quinn start the school year off by giving the morning announcements at Spanish Fort High school with gusto and Toro Pride!
Kindergarten parents at J. Larry Newton School were invited to the annual Boo Hoo Breakfast held on the first day of school. South River Park Church of God generously provided teary-eyed parents with a delicious breakfast, while Newton PTO members and administrators were on hand to answer questions or just lend a shoulder to cry on! Newton School’s parents, teachers, students, and community are looking forward to a fantastic year of learning and fun!
Gulf Shores Middle School Cheerleaders Attend Camp at Beach Club Resort
The Gulf Shores Middle School cheerleaders recently attended the Universal Cheerleader Association (UCA) Camp at the Beach Club Resort in July. The squad received superior ratings in every performance area. They received a gold superior ribbon for sideline, gold superior ribbon for cheer, and blue superior ribbon for extreme routine. Caroline Hudson received the "Pin it Forward" award and was the winner of the jump off competition. Carley Ray Tuck was the runner up of the jump off competition. The squad was awarded the "Top Banana" which is given to the squad that is a true example of spirit and leadership for the entire camp. The squad also received the spirit stick, 1st place in the extreme routine, 1st place in game day cheer, 2nd place game day sideline and overall game day winner. The UCA staff selected Bella Turner, Veronica Chapman and Alyssa Johnson as "All American." Coaches Megan Michaelson and Kristin Weaver could not be more proud of the cheerleaders. The squad represented Gulf Shores Middle School impressively. Members of the squad are: Alyssa Johnson, Alyssa Streeter, Ava Urich, Bayli Manning, Bella Turner, Carley Ray Tuck, Caroline Hudson, Emma White, Hannah McComb, Jessica Stevens, Mackenzie Cooper, Makayla Butt, Stacy Stevens, Veronica Chapman. Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
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Fairhope Organic School Partnering to Clean-up our Beaches
The Fairhope Organic School, The Marietta Johnson Museum and the City of Fairhope are partnering with the national organization ALL ONE OCEAN in a project designed to encourage responsible stewardship of our waters. Fairhope Organic School students will construct, decorate and install 5 permanent Beach Clean Up Stations (BCUS) in the area along the Eastern Shore of the Mobile Bay from the entrance to the beach just north of the Fairhope Pier south to the American Legion Building. The Marietta Johnson Museum provided funding for this project. The (BCUS) boxes will be supplied with bags providing a convenient way for beachgoers to help pick up trash while they are enjoying the beach. The (BCUS) boxes will be installed the week after the Alabama Coastal Clean-Up to remind everybody that it is important to keep our beaches clean all year long. Awareness of the impact of this waste on the health of our marine life and human population is crucial. Organizers encourage other institutions, organizations and communities to join in this effort, creating and installing more Beach Clean-Up Stations all along the Bay and Gulf Coast For more information, call 251-928-9347 or visit FairhopeOrganicSchool.com.
Baldwin Co. HS Holds Free Algebra Workshop During Summer
Baldwin County High School offered a free Algebra 2 Success Workshop this summer for students who will be in the Pre-AP Algebra 2/Trigonometry course during the Fall Term of the 2016-2017 school year. This workshop is designed to prep students for the rigorous curriculum of the Pre-AP Algebra 2/ Trigonometry by reviewing Algebra 1 and Geometry topics that are necessary for success in the Pre-AP Algebra 2/Trigonometry course. BCHS teachers Paula Owen and Sandra Stacy led the sessions. Pictured, Teacher Paula Owen assists Amelia DeMouy during the first week of the math workshop.
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Now Enrolling K4-12th! Call to schedule a tour!
23050 US Highway 98 | Fairhope, AL 36532 | (251)929-0011 | www.bayshorechristian.org 19
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Autauga County Schools
United Way of Baldwin Co. Youth Board Plans for Upcoming School Year
The United Way of Baldwin County Youth Board recently spent a summer morning planning for the upcoming school year. Students on the Youth Board are nominated by their high school counselor and spend their senior year engaging the community through fundraisers, service projects and volunteer events. Representatives include Bryce Cheatham (Baldwin County High School); Alexandra Bjorkner (Spanish Fort High School), Lilly Bower (Robertsdale High School), Liam Ayres (Daphne High School), Anna Lee McDuff (Fairhope High School), Carley Resmondo (Foley High School); Erin Brown (Bayside Academy), and Jaylee Dempsey (Gulf Shores High School).
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Meet the Teacher at J. Larry Newton School
It was all hands on deck at J. Larry Newton School’s 2016 Meet the Teacher event! On the way to their new classrooms, eager students grabbed a photo opportunity with Queen Elsa and the Fairhope pirate. Newton’s faculty and staff were equally excited to see returning children and welcome new students. Many families took the opportunity to register with Newton’s PTO, chat with Patrice Krueger, principal, and Jenny Breazeale, assistant principal, check in with the school nurse, and complete beginning of the year paperwork. The Newton Pirates “arrrrgh" ready for a fantastic year!
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Bayshore Christian School Welcomes New Faculty and Staff
Bayshore Christian School is happy to welcome several new administrative and faculty members for the 2016-2017 school year. Mr. Christian Leman who has his degree in Biblical Literature and Philosophy from Taylor University recently moved with his wife, daughter, and soon-to-be son from Denver, Colorado, where he served as Dean of Students and interim Head of School at Highlands Classical Academy. Bayshore welcomes him as the new High School Principal. Pictured, from left to right, are the new faculty members for the 2016-2017 school year: Rob Haynes, Rhetoric Teacher; Christian Leman, High School Principal; Thomas Key, History Teacher; Kristina Liles, Kindergarten Teacher; Krista Coburn, 3rd grade Teacher; Michelle McCammon, 6th grade Teacher; and Elizabeth Stokes, 1st grade Teacher. BCS is excited to have these new faculty and staff members on board!
First Day of School at Christ the King Catholic School Christ the King began the 2016-2017 school year on August 17. Eighth grade girls gathered together for a picture before heading off to their homerooms on Wednesday morning.
Please send your School News and Photos to: lynn@ easternshoreparents.com.
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Autauga County Schools
Bayside Academy First Day of School August 15
Pictured top left, football players and cheerleaders met the Primary and Intermediate School students to welcome them back to a new year. Pictured below, the first day of school was celebrated with an Ice Cream Social for all Bayside students. Pictured are the 2016-17 Seniors.
Pictured left, Kindergarten is on the hunt for the Gingerbread Man and visited Head of School Michael Papa to find out the next clue.
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Bay Minette Intermediate School First Day
Pictured left, Second grade teacher Jennifer Gee welcomes her new class of students at Bay Minette Elementary.
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Pictured right, Families escorted their children to their new classes.
Pictured bottom right, Back to school means back to classwork and routines. Here, students at Bay Minette Intermediate School start their day with the Pledge of Allegiance.
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Pictured bottom left, Monday was the first day of the 2016-2017 school year. Students returning to Bay Minette Intermediate School were met with fresh clean rooms and happy teachers. Fourth grader, Addison Scarborough, poses with mom, Tiffany for her first day of fourth grade in Danielle Brown’s class.
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Autauga County Schools
Gulf Shores Elementary First Day of School
Top left: Gulf Shores Elementary School 5th grader Ian Gotschall and Miss Pam are delighted to be together the first day of school. Pictured top right: Gulf Shores Elementary School 2nd grader Maddox Carr was happily surprised to run into Mom, Leanna Carr, in the hallway the first day of school. Pictured bottom left, Gracie, Zoe, Blakelyn, Coach Hawkins, Ethan, Brandon and Sam are ready for PE on the first day of school at Gulf Shores Elementary School! Pictured bottom right, Avery, Haven and Cecilia – lunchroom buddies celebrating the first day of school together at Gulf Shores Elementary School
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Fairhope HS Teacher/ Local Author Wins Awards for Book
On August 5, the Florida Authors & Publishers Association (FAPA) gave out its prestigious annual President’s Awards for outstanding books by authors and publishers in Florida and throughout the United States. FAPA recognized books in forty-seven categories. “Clemenceau’s Daughters”, Rocky Porch Moore’s southern-flavored horror novel, won medals for excellence in three categories: GOLD in Adult Fiction-Horror; SILVER in Adult Fiction-Contemporary/Literary; and SILVER in Adult Fiction-General. Moore’s novel is partially set in her hometown of Scottsboro, Alabama and traces the legacy of heartbreak passed through the women of the family by their malevolent ancestor. Moore lives in Foley and teaches English Language Arts at Fairhope High School. “The 2016 award winners exemplify excellence in publishing both regionally and nationally. The awards continue to command the attention of industry professionals and readers,” said Terri Gerrell, FAPA President. The competition employed sixty-five judges from across the United States including librarians, educators, and publishing professionals. All recipients of a FAPA President’s Book Award will have the opportunity to have their book displayed at BookExpo America 2017, the #1 book event for the book industry in the US. BookExpo America 2017 will be in New York City May 31-June 2, 2017. Moore’s novel, Clemenceau’s Daughters, is available at www.rockyporchmoore.com, Foley Art Center, Teacher’s Gear, Page & Palette, and your favorite major online book retailer.
Our practice can provide primary care for all ages, from newborns through adults. We offer well and sick visits, sports physicals, immunizations, routine preventive care, and treatment for minor emergencies. Dr. David Johnson and Dr. Amy Kayl have recently joined Eastern Shore Family Practice.
Andrew Smith, MD, Amy Kayl, DO, David Johnson, MD, Ross Bishop, MD We provide timely, efficient, quality medical care to help patients of all ages achieve and preserve a healthy and happy lifestyle. We work to build a lasting personal relationship based on mutual respect, honesty, effective communication, and compassion.
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Autauga County Schools
Local Cheerleaders Chosen to Perform in Walt Disney World Parade
Kaitlin Murrill, Mary Katherine Northcutt, Anna Ruth Smith, Brittney Warner, and Alanna Wiest from Bayshore Christian School in Fairhope, have all been selected as UCA All American Cheerleaders. The girls will represent Bayshore by marching in a parade at the Walt Disney World® Resort in Orlando, Florida this holiday season. The individuals invited to perform in the parade are part of a small group of Cheerleaders selected at a Varsity Spirit cheerleading camp this summer hosted by the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA). The Bayshore all stars will perform in an once-in-a-lifetime parade performance through Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Besides enjoying a sunny trip to Orlando, performers will have the opportunity to enjoy a magical holiday season at Walt Disney World® Resort parks. “I am looking forward to representing my school and getting to spend time with my family and friends in Orlando, FL”, said Murrill.
Christ the King Catholic School 1st Grade Teachers Complete Writing Course
Christ the King Catholic School first grade teachers, Mrs. Cyndi May, left, and Mrs. Denise Helper, each earned the Kid Writing Institute Certificate at Mobile’s first Kid Writing Institute over the summer break. They were in a group of the first teachers in Alabama to be awarded this distinction. We look forward to Mrs. May and Mrs. Helper implementing what they have learned to create a joyful, academic, successful literacy-learning environment for our first grade students.
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St. Michael Catholic High School Marks First Day of School With 9th and 10th graders this year, St. Michael in Fairhope opened its doors for the first time on Wednesday, August 17. Students and staff gathered for a picture outside the main entrance to mark this historic occasion! The school will add a grade each year until it reaches 12th grade. Go Cardinals!!
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Photo, bottom left, Pictured left to right: Graham Canton, Daisy Van Alstine, Michael Brown, Sydney Barter and Mr. David Pryor collaborate on a team building project during an assembly on the first day of school at St. Michael's Catholic High School!
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Pictured, right: 9th graders (left to right): Michael Garriz, Jeremy Del Angel, Will Edmiston, Blaine Kenny, and Daniel Matthews experience the new physics lab on the first day of school
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at St. Michael Catholic High School.
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Autauga County Schools Gulf Shores Middle School Girls’ Basketball Team Attends Camp
The Gulf Shores Middle School Girls' Basketball Team enjoyed a wonderful basketball camp at Troy University this summer. Between team building and practicing their ball skills, the girls learned a great deal. They look forward to hitting the court this season!
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First Day of School at Daphne East Elementary
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PE coaches Will McInvale, Amanda Jones & Carol Valdes celebrate the first day of school at Daphne East Elementary!
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Thomas Hospital Auxiliary Awards Health Career Scholarships to Area Students
The Thomas Hospital Auxiliary is pleased to award $12,000 in health career scholarships to six Baldwin County residents. Each student will receive a scholarship valued at $2,000. Olivia Atkins is pursuing a master’s degree at Troy University to become a certified registered nurse practitioner. Margaret Council, Shavia Safford and Abby Sealy are pursuing bachelor’s degrees in nursing at the University of South Alabama. Catharine Hardyman and Abigail Hitson are pursuing bachelor’s degrees in nursing at the University of Mobile. These students were chosen based on their academic excellence, extra-curricular activities and dedication to their goals. Thomas Hospital Auxiliary Health Career Scholarship Committee Chair Rusty Downey and Co-Chair Bob Holmes interviewed and selected this year’s recipients. Since 1999, the Thomas Hospital Auxiliary has awarded 73 scholarships valued at more than $153,000. Students who are residents of Baldwin County and have been accepted into a healthcare program at an accredited college or university may apply for the Thomas Hospital Auxiliary Health Career Scholarship. Applications are available in February and due in May. The scholarships are funded by the Auxiliary’s annual holiday Tree of Lights fundraiser, and the sale of used books, which are donated and sold in the Thomas Hospital Gift Shop in Fairhope and Thomas Medical Center Snack Shop in Daphne. Donations of used books in good condition are appreciated and accepted at both locations. Scholarship recipients (front row, center, left to right) Abigail Hitson, Olivia Akins, (back row, center, left to right) Margaret Council, Abby Sealy, Catherine Hardyman and Shavia Safford are pictured with (far left, left to right) Thomas Hospital Auxiliary Health Career Scholarship Committee Co-Chairperson Bob Holmes, Thomas Hospital Auxiliary President Ana Maria Harrison, and (far right) Thomas Hospital Auxiliary Health Career Scholarship Committee Chairperson Rusty Downey.
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Autauga County Schools
Gulf Shores Elementary New Faculty Members 2016-17
Gulf Shores Elementary School is pleased to introduce our new faculty members for the 2016-17 school year. Back row l to r: Casey Bowman - 4th grade teacher, Paula Stevens - 1st grade teacher, Shelly Ford - 1st grade teacher, Amy Hiller - Principal, Amanda McAleer - 3rd grade teacher, Ashley Clolinger Instructional Coach, and Emily Corcoran - 2nd grade teacher. Front row l to r: Mary Beth Waller - 3rd grade teacher, Ashley Perry - MultiDisabilities teacher, Dana Guthrie - 3rd grade teacher, and our returning teacher Gina Pierce - 5th grade teacher.
Gulf Shores Middle School First Day
Gulf Shores Middle School Dolphins had a great first day back! Smiles and high-fives were shared by many. We are excited to see what the 2016-2017 school year holds!
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Premier Medical Welcomes Dr. Brian P. Sullivan!
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Brian P. Sullivan, MD, Otolaryngologist has joined the medical
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“The Sing-Off” Finalist, Street Corner Symphony, Set to Entertain at Phantasy of the Arts 2016
The six-man a cappella group, the Street Corner Symphony, will fill the Fairhope Civic Center with music for all ages at Phantasy of the Arts 2016, the Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation’s (FEEF) signature fundraiser, on Saturday, October 8, at 7 p.m. The Nashville-based Street Corner Symphony gained international attention in 2010 as runners-up on Season 2 of NBC's all vocal competition, “The Sing-Off”. These southern gents have a musical repertoire that includes original music as well as popular songs, such as “Uptown Funk” and “Hey, Soul Sister,” but performed with humor and rearranged with an a cappella twist. The group consists of two brothers, Jeremy Lister and Jonathan Lister, along with Adam Chance, Kurt Zimmerman, Kaleb Jones and Mark McLemore. Since their success on The SingOff, Street Corner Symphony has been making records and touring with Ben Folds and Jay Leno, performing at Tony Romo's wedding, and bringing their show overseas to Italy. In addition to performing at Phantasy of the Arts, Street Corner Symphony will conduct a workshop with Fairhope High School and Fairhope Middle School students on the morning of the event. Phantasy of the Arts co-chairs Julie Brown and Jeni Whitehurst promise this celebration of FEEF’s upcoming 21st anniversary will continue the tradition of being a great night of entertainment for education. In addition to Street Corner Symphony, recently featured entertainment at Phantasy includes Chicago’s legendary “The Second City” improv comedy troupe; the popular Alabama band, Saint Paul and the Broken Bones; and Lightwire Theatre, which gained national acclaim on “America’s Got Talent”. Since this is a party in the South during college football season, the audience can expect the evening to continue with great food from the area’s finest chefs and football viewing. Local culinary talent this year will include Will Hughes Catering, The Warehouse Bakery, and downtown Mediterranean restaurant Sage. The Fairhope Brewery will also provide its local brew for partygoers. “This is an opportunity for people in our community to come together for good music, good food, and good company while also showing support for public education in Fairhope,” says Julie Brown. “FEEF’s vision is to empower every child to discover and create a better world, and this fundraiser helps to make that possible,” explains Brown. “This fundraiser directly supports enrichment programs in art, music, and science that would otherwise be unavailable to our public school students in Fairhope,” says Jeni Whitehurst. “For example, a team of robotics students from Fairhope High School built a module to compete in NASA’s Human Exploration Rover Challenge and placed 7th out of 44 high school teams from all over the country. A grant from FEEF helped make their success possible,” explained Whitehurst. Since its inception, Phantasy of the Arts has raised more than $700,000 for public education in Fairhope. Most recently, proceeds from the fundraiser have allowed Fairhope Elementary students access to expanded art and music lessons, provided hands-on science labs for Fairhope Intermediate and J. Larry Newton students, and supported piano lab, theatre, band, art, and guitar lab at Fairhope High and Fairhope Middle Schools. Those wishing to purchase a sponsorship of the event will have access to an exclusive pre-party gathering at 5:30 p.m. Advanced individual tickets are $100. To purchase a sponsorship, tickets, or for more information visit www.feefonline.org, call 251-990-FEEF, or email info@ feefonline.org.
Bayshore Christian School’s Head Earns Doctoral Degree
Bayshore Christian School’s Head of School recently earned her Doctoral Degree. Dr. Pam McKee, who is entering her fourth year at Bayshore, holds a B.A. in Christian Education and Sociology with a minor in Psychology from Huntingdon College. She also earned her MA in Educational Leadership from Covenant College, and on July 19th, she received her doctorate in Educational Leadership from Liberty University. Dr. McKee's dissertation focused on the use of technology in the elementary classroom. Bayshore is proud to have Dr. McKee at the helm of their classical Christian school. 31
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Autauga County Schools
Christ the King Catholic School Faculty Participate in Area Teacher Orientation
Christ the King Catholic School faculty and administrators spent the day before the school year started at the annual Mobile/Baldwin Teacher Orientation, held at Christ the King. The day began with Mass celebrated by Archbishop Thomas Rodi. Afterwards they were treated to a special guest speaker, Rev. Victor Ingalls, Archdiocese of Mobile Vocations Director. Father Victor spoke to our teachers about building a culture of vocations, and to answer their call from God to love and serve our students through this ministry of education.
Bayshore Christian School Begins 15th Year
The first day of the 2016-2017 school year marks a milestone for Bayshore Christian School. BCS is celebrating 15 years of offering a distinctly classical and Christian education to families along the Eastern Shore. BCS graduated their first senior class this past May and they also received accreditation from the Association of Classical Christian Schools. On Thursday, August 11, Bayshore welcomed 275 students, preschool through 12th grade, on its campus with an outlook of a grand celebratory year ahead. Pictured is Bayshore’s senior class of 2017, along with Head of School, Dr. Pamela McKee and High School Principal, Mr. Christian Leman.
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U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Happenings
Dunlap Division of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps held its June drill aboard the USS Alabama Battleship. While aboard, cadets had the honor to participate with the Living History Crew and the Deep South Amateur Radio Club. The Unit also received an award for top unit in Region 8 based on their commendable marks received during February’s Annual Inspection. In other news, the Mobile Council Navy League held their annual fish fry at the Mobile Yacht Club, where they honored the top NSCC and NLCC cadet. The Theodore Roosevelt Youth Medal was awarded to Chief David M. Lowder, NSCC, of Semmes, AL. The Navy League has established this award to recognize an outstanding Sea Cadet. The award consists of a medal, ribbon, certificate, and a pamphlet on President Theodore Roosevelt whose visage is on the medal. The NULUS Youth ribbon was awarded to PO3 Julius Garret, NLCC, of Mobile, Al. This award was established to acknowledge the accomplishments and achievements of an outstanding League Cadet. Both Cadet Lowder and Garret were also recognized by Dunlap Division as “Cadets of the Year.” The guest speaker for the evening was Mr. John Marty, Author of “Hostages to the Sea, Waterman Steamships at War 1941-1945.” Sea Cadets is a program designed for young men and women between the ages of 10 and high school completion. The program has a positive influence on these young people, teaching them the importance of patriotism, courage, self-reliance, leadership skills, teamwork, accountability, and military knowledge. Once a cadet has completed the program, they are under no obligation to enter any of the armed forces. However, if they choose to enlist they are usually eligible to enlist at an advanced pay grade. There is an open enrollment – meaning you can join at any time during the year. The local unit typically drills once a month at the USCG Aviation Training Center located in Mobile. For more information visit the website www.seacadets.org or email angela.graham@hotmail.com.
Please Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com.
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Common Sense Rules for Augmented Reality Pokemon GO may be the first breakthrough game to use augmented reality (AR), but it certainly won’t be the last. The boundaries between virtual and tangible worlds have been blurring for a long time, and new games fuse the two into one irresistible package. As everyone knows by now, Pokemon GO makes tiny monsters appear everywhere from museums and malls to backyards and kitchens. Entire families have cheerfully headed out into their neighborhoods and beyond to collect as many monsters as they can. So far so good. But augmented reality also creates risks. Thinking through the pros and cons of Pokemon GO gives parents a good platform for making common sense rules about the many AR games that are likely to follow. As you develop family guidelines, keep these 5 P’s in mind. Permissions. Children under 13 can’t sign up for games unless they have permission from parents. That’s a reminder that younger children need augmented supervision in augmented reality. Play together if you can. Or ask your child to walk you (literally!) through the game so you can see and comment on what’s fun and what’s risky. AR apps also ask for permissions when they are installed, and parents should get in the habit of reviewing every request. Obviously, smart phones hold lots of information— who a child knows, where she hangs out, what photos he’s taken, what social media she uses. This information may seem trivial, but it’s catnip to marketers. Even if the company that makes the app promises to use the information responsibly, tech companies often change hands. The best policy is to give each app as little permission as possible. Pokemon Go, for example, needs access to the phone’s Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
camera but not contact information. To revise your choices after installation, find the Settings icon on the phone. Look for the Apps folder. Find the relevant app and uncheck as many boxes as possible. Place. AR games encourage children to explore the world. That’s terrific! But kids still need boundaries. For kids mature enough to play without direct supervision, be very clear about where they are allowed to go. In the case of Pokemon GO, monsters may very well show up outside the approved play zone. Talk in advance about how you want your child to handle this situation. (To confirm that the rules are being followed, click the Pokeball button at the bottom of the screen. You’ll see a list of captured Pokemon and details about where they were caught.) Before turning a child loose with AR, remind them about tangible concerns. Exercise special caution near water and never cross safety barricades. Don’t trespass on private property and don’t play the game in inappropriate places like cemeteries and churches. Use sunscreen and stay hydrated. Traffic is another obvious risk. People staring at phones have bumped into things and stepped in front of cars. Some parents insist that kids set the phone to vibrate when a Pokemon is nearby so they can walk without distraction. To its credit, Pokemon GO reminds players to turn the game off while driving. The same rule should apply to other forms of transportation—bikes, scooters, skateboards. People. The best games are often social, and AR is no exception. Chatting with others who are playing in the same vicinity seems natural, and some objectives require teamwork. Most of the people your child encounters will be fellow enthusiasts. But the Pokemon GO game includes devices that 34
draw Pokemon—and their hunters—to specific locations, and that creates opportunities for predators. Remind your child that all the usual rules about talking to or going anywhere with strangers apply. Encourage kids to play with friends and reiterate the fact that, even with friends, they shouldn’t go into isolated places like dark alleys or abandoned buildings. As an extra layer of protection, consider keeping track of your child’s phone with a service like Find my Friends (Apple) or Google+ (Android). Price. Apps are seductive because they seem to be free. Still, the people who develop these things need to be paid, so something is always for sale. In the case of Pokemon GO, players can purchase Pokeballs, Pokecoins and lures that will make it easier to catch rare specimens. For parents, this is a teachable moment. Consider giving your child an in-game allowance or encouraging her to earn money for game items by doing chores. Make it crystal clear that your child needs to get approval before spending real money on virtual goods. AR games are also likely to have other costs. Because Pokemon GO depends on GPS tracking, it consumes lots of data. Show older kids how to monitor usage so they don’t incur extra charges by exceeding the family limit. Privilege. Playing any game is a privilege that can be revoked if kids don’t follow household rules. In the case of a craze like Pokemon GO, you may want to be flexible at first to see how the game fits into family life. When is it OK to play? When do you expect phones to be powered down? Are there things your child can do to earn extra time? What behaviors will result in suspending privileges? The answers to these questions won’t be the same for every family, and they may need to be hammered out in family meetings. Still, it’s always up to parents to be sure that the allure of AR is tempered with real world common sense. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2016, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved
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Q. Our daughter is a special needs child, who doctors say will live about half as long as the average adult. There’s also a good chance she will be under our care her entire life. We just finished Baby Step 3 of your plan, so we have all of our debt paid off except for the house, and we have an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses saved. We have health insurance, too. However, we were wondering how the situation with our little girl affects retirement planning and college funding? A. I know this may sound strange, but the situation with your daughter really doesn’t affect things all that much. The only real difference is that it sounds like you’ll be responsible for your sweet daughter for the foreseeable future — not just until she’s 18 or 21. If you don’t already have it, you and your wife should both buy 10 to 12 times
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
your annual incomes in term life insurance. Make sure the money from the policies is set up to go into a special needs trust that would be managed for her care. That way, your baby will be taken care of in the event something unexpected happens to you. Otherwise, just keep following my plan. Baby Step 4 means you start putting 15 percent of your income into pre-tax retirement plans, like Roth IRAs and mutual funds. Baby Step 5 is college funding, if that’s a consideration for her, followed by paying off your home early. Then, of course, the last Baby Step is building wealth and giving. Financially speaking, you’re looking at filling a need in the event of your deaths. This should be covered by life insurance or investments. If you reach a point where your investments are substantial, and money from those things can adequately cover her needs and the needs of your family, then you can always drop the insurance policies.
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Q. My husband has his own one-man painting business, and I help him with the books. We were wondering how you know when it’s time to implement a price increase. Also, what should the increase be? A. I grew up in the real estate business, so I’ll use the apartment-complex model as my example. If your building is completely full, it’s time to raise prices a little until you have a vacancy. In this type of scenario, you want a healthy level of vacancy, meaning you’re always going to be losing some customers as you go up in prices. In your husband’s case, if he’s booked through the end of the month, he’s way underpriced. Just keep on turning in your bids, and don’t make a big deal about things. It isn’t like a tenant, in your case, where you’re going back time and time again except in rare cases. You might start with a 10 percent increase, and see what happens for a while. If that goes well, wait a bit and raise them another 10 percent. There are only so many hours in a day he can work, so the only other option is to take on staff. But before I start staffing, I’m going to raise prices and cut the number of customers that way. In most cases, if you show up when you say you will, complete the job when you say you will, and you do high quality work, there’s almost no ceiling on what you can make!
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While some kids will barely utter a word, their talkative brethren are more than happy to fill the silence. How do you know when talking has crossed from socially acceptable to problematic?
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Why kids talk and talk and talk... A child’s talking varies according to the situation. What parent doesn’t delight in the way her child’s face beams when he talks enthusiastically about something that was particularly interesting or rewarding at school?
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Often non-stop talking is age-appropriate, such as when a toddler is excitedly developing her language skills. Some kids may talk your ear off at home, but are quiet and shy at school. On the other hand, you may have a social butterfly who finds it difficult to restrain herself from visiting with her neighbors during quiet time and classroom instruction.
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“The important determining factor has to do with whether others are adversely affected,” says Dr. Richard Newman, a child psychologist. Newman specializes in working with school-aged children and adolescents who have problems that manifest in the classroom, including compulsive talking and disruption. “I think it’s important to be tolerant about talking, to carefully listen to and watch for red flags for when talking creates problems and to discuss potential problems with children,” he says. A youngster’s gift for gab becomes a concern if she constantly interrupts conversation, speaks in lengthy monologues and frequently gets into trouble at school for her talking. Worse, non-stop talking can cripple your child’s social relationships, leading to lower self-esteem and social isolation. To help your Chatty Cathy learn to moderate her talking, try a few of these gentle methods to model appropriate conversation skills:
Help your child feel heard.
Julie Hanks, LCSW, a family psychotherapist, says to reflect back to make your child feel listened to and more aware of his behavior. For example: “Hmmm...you’ve told me that story about what you did at recess three times. It must have been really important to you.”
Make eye contact.
When people don’t look at us when we address them, we aren’t sure if they’re truly listening and that can compel us to repeat ourselves. Put aside your phone, magazine, or tablet and give your child your full attention when he talks to you. “Sometimes kids repeat themselves because a parent is multi-tasking,” Hanks says.
Notice your habits.
Ever heard your preschooler pretending to be you talking on the phone? Then you know that kids learn how to communicate with others by watching how their parents handle social situations. Model reciprocal communication, which occurs through body language like gestures and nods, eye contact and through dialogue in which one person speaks while the other listens and then responds.
Establish boundaries. Teach your child self-control and self-regulation by setting boundaries. Point out times when it’s disruptive to talk like in the quiet space at
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the library or while others want to listen to a speaker or a favorite song on the radio. If you need a break from your child’s chattering, tell her you need some quiet time. Set the timer for 15 minutes and suggest that she play in her room quietly, look at a book or color.
Make listening fun.
If your child’s talking interferes with other family members’ opportunities to speak, set a limit on how long she can talk before it’s the next person’s turn. One way to practice turn-taking is to go around the table with an item like a pepper mill or an honorary spoon, which can symbolize a mic. Whoever holds the designated “mic” holds the floor, which means it’s his turn to share his news, quip or story. No interruptions, but others can ask questions of the person doing the talking to learn more about what he shared.
Nurture social signal recognition.
Some children struggle to recognize social cues like body language and tone of voice. Play charades to practice different facial expressions and body language. Acknowledge your child’s nonverbal signals and label emotions: “You’re smiling from ear to ear. Something good must have just happened!” Look at picture books and ask your child what the character is feeling. Make note of other people’s body language. For example, “That lady has her arms crossed and she’s talking loudly to the clerk. How do you think she’s feeling?” Read dialogue in books with inflection to help your child discern how the characters must be feeling based on how the dialogue is spoken. One sentence spoken in different ways can carry a variety of connotations like anger, sarcasm or gentle teasing.
When you need it most, our solution-focused counseling can offer hope Sometimes children facing emotional challenges may experience erratic behaviors such as aggression or difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms such as unexplained weight loss or headaches. If your family is struggling with issues like these, call BayView today. Our confidential, supportive professionals can help you restore your family’s quality of life.
Seek professional help. If you’re
concerned about your child’s constant chattering, consult with his pediatrician or a mental health professional. An assessment can determine if your child’s talking is within the normal range of behavior or compulsive, i.e., he refuses to be interrupted, focuses on worries or fears or gets extremely agitated when he can’t finish a story. ESP
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Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines is the mom of two boys who love to talk. Her latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.
www.easternshoreparents.com
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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston
Getting Teens to Grow Up Remember Alice in Wonderland? There’s one part of the story that finds a diminutive Alice trapped in a room where everything is bigger and taller than she is. But there, at her feet, she finds a piece of cake labeled “Eat Me.” After one bite from that questionable dessert, Alice grows exponentially, transforming into a full-fledged adult in the space of a few seconds. I know many parents who would love to feed a bit of that kind of “maturity cake” to their own kids! It seems that more and more teenagers in this generation are becoming stuck in a perpetual state of adolescence. Instead of growing into healthy adults, a rising number of young people are prolonging their childhood. In fact, the American Medical Association has recently increased the age of adolescence to 27. That means we have a bunch of twenty-somethings running around behaving like kids! No parent wants his or her child stuck. Our desire is to see our kids develop into mature, responsible, and independent adults. So how can we get them to grow up?
Causes
Before we work to fix the problem, we first have to identify the cause. Now, we could blame society for this generation of childish teens. But here’s the honest truth— parents, the fault lies with us. Young people will remain kids as long as we allow them to be kids. When we entertain their every desire, cater to their every need, protect them from every threat, and fund their every activity, why would they ever feel the need to be mature or responsible? Another cause for stunted growth could be related to how we communicate with our teens. When we constantly criticize their behavior, we stop their decision-making processes and send a clear message that they can’t function on their own. As they move Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
through the process of maturity, remember to transition from lectures to discussions. Parents; stop the constant correction of your kids! I realize that sometimes they need it, but communication made up entirely of criticism can stunt a child’s growth. If you want your child to grow into an adult, begin to treat him like one. If your son or daughter makes a mistake and doesn’t always listen to your advice, that’s okay. The consequences of bad decisions are often better than correction you could give.
Solutions
When your child shows no desire to hold a job, move out of the house, pursue goals, or further her life, it’s time to ask some tough questions. Are you giving too much and expecting too little? Are you nurturing a child’s inner adult or catering to an adult’s inner child? Though on the outside it looks like a maturity problem with your child, a teen stuck as a kid is really a family problem. And it needs to be corrected! Zookeepers know that you can turn a ferocious grizzly bear into a non-threatening stuffed animal by providing for their every need and limiting their freedom. But don’t make that mistake with your teens. Allow them opportunities to reach, grow, and mature, even if that means they make mistakes along the way. We want our teens to survive in the jungle, not a controlled habitat at home. Start by making a detailed plan of moving your child through maturity. It could look something like this: Age 13: Start washing his or her own clothes Age 14: Pick up more chores around the house Age 15: Get involved in helping others at church or in the community Age 16: Get a summer job Age 17: Be responsible for his or her own school career, including homework, tests, and activities Age 18: Manage personal money, including clothes budget or gas 42
These are simply examples, but you can see that the goal is to slowly nudge your children to deeper levels of maturity and growth, and lovingly train them to stand on their own two feet. Mom and Dad, start taking the emotional training wheels off your child’s bike early and often. This doesn’t mean we can’t help him steer or balance the bike from time to time. But we don’t allow our 18-year-old to keep riding around on a tricycle! No teen is past the age where you can teach maturity. Maybe you have a 19-yearold living in your basement, playing video games and contributing nothing. Now’s the time to take action and give him a big push in the right direction. Announce that you’ll be charging rent next month. However, maybe the first month you’ll cover half the payment, the second month you’ll cover a quarter, and by the third month you’ll expect a full rent payment. The ramp-up will give him time to get on his feet. Or make the decision that gas money, insurance, and clothing allowances are contingent on going to college or holding down a job. Set the rules, then don’t give in! Stick to your guns. If you don’t do anything now, two years down the road, instead of a 19-year-old living in your basement, you’ll have a 21-year-old living there! Make a decision to help your teen move forward right now, and put it at the top of the priority list. Though the American Medical Association says that 27 is the new 18, we don’t want that to be the case for our kids. It starts with us as parents. Let’s take the initiative and begin offering our teens opportunities to nibble the cake that will help them grow up. Stop the constant correction, take off the training wheels, and make a yearly maturity plan for your teen. Use these tools to get your teen moving forward into adulthood. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.
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Science is Child’s Play
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
With the landscape of opportunity growing in the STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), an early introduction to these disciplines is guaranteed to prepare youth for success. Exploration through play is the easiest and most accessible way for kids to really get a first-hand feel for these fields of study. Playing with basic chemistry, physics and science gives children a real understanding of principles that shape the world around them. The following recommendations help small hands open doors to big learning.
by Gerry Paige Smith
Solar Balloon
Meteor Rocket Science
(Tedco)
Energy from our sun reveals itself in spectacular fashion with the Solar Balloon. Measuring over fifty feet in length with a diameter exceeding two feet, simply running with this balloon open can fill it with air needed to inflate it. Once sealed, the black, ultra-light material slowly absorbs the sunlight which heats the air inside the balloon. As warm air is less dense than cool air, the behemoth balloon will slowly begin to levitate after a couple of hours in the sun. The included guide offers additional in-depth understanding of the science in play, including convection, thermodynamics, the Bernoulli Principle and more. Get the biggest effect from the smallest effort with this massive demonstration of the sun’s power!
(Scientific Explorer)
Stellar fun is driven by solid science when the Meteor Rocket takes flight. Using the simple chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar, this kit provides the components to craft a rocket and the guidance to control its launch. Young chemists can repeat their launch experiments multiple times as they tweak their mixture, adjusting the carbon dioxide gas propellant’s power. Adult supervision is suggested and a good supply of baking soda and vinegar recommended as young flight engineers explore the fundamentals of aerodynamics, chemistry, and other aspects of scientific fun.
Zometool Crazy Bubbles
Glowing Chemistry
Bubbling over with scientific principles to demonstrate, art and geometry collide in this captivating set from Zometool. Using some of the 52 struts and nodes, kids can assemble an amazing variety of threedimensional constructs. When the construct is dipped in bubble solution, what emerges is a demonstration of surprising new geometry formed by bubbles. Cubes, sheets, and spiral bubble forms are just a few of the translucent structures revealed in each new framework. Additionally, these bubble forms can be tweaked and experimented with using breath and wet fingers. Moving far beyond the typical spherical bubble, this kit reveals whole new dimensions of bubble building.
Young minds are most ready to absorb knowledge that they can observe directly. Some of the coolest chemical reactions in science occur right before their eyes with the Glowing Chemistry kit. With over 22 experiments to try, kids quickly become the masters of creating chemical luminescence, making things that glow. From test tube reactions that generate eerie blue light to making vegetables glow-in-the-dark, the results light up chemical reactions. Including all the chemical ingredients, safety goggles, pipettes, and dishes, the full-color Glowing Chemistry Guide gives simple direction on the illuminating science of chemiluminescence.
(Thames & Kosmos)
(Zometool)
Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com
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Many parents of special needs children appear to parent with grace, balance, and energy. In addition they also seem remarkably stress-free and organized. How, in the face of all of these challenges and more, do they keep it together? What habits do they embrace that allow them to be highly effective parents for their children?
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Habit One: They are proactive and advocate for their children and educate others.
Parents become experts about their children and their needs. They conduct ongoing research; ask questions of therapists, doctors, specialists, and other professionals; and keep an organized binder full of notes and important information. They create and add to their at-home special needs libraries. They are knowledgeable about vernacular, treatments, and services. They are well versed in the state and federal laws that regulate services for their children. Because of their knowledge parents are effective educators of their child’s faculty and staff. They are powerful advocates for treatment, services, and support-in and outside of school.
Habit Two: They maintain a sense of “normalcy” within the family.
Effective parents realize that although everyone in the family is affected by their child’s disorder, they are not defined by it. Parents work to ensure that siblings have childhoods and do not take on adult responsibilities. They encourage siblings to spend time with their friends. Parents are proactive about training other family members, friends and sitters about how to care for their child so that they can have time for themselves, individually and as a couple, perhaps going out on weekly dates. They also spend time in the company of other adult friends.
Habit Three: They take care of themselves.
Parents nurture their needs, and recognize that doing so is important for themselves as well as their children. Effective parents address themselves holistically, meaning they take care of their physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs. They eat nutritious unprocessed food and don’t skip meals. They make sure their bodies are properly hydrated. They schedule time for regular exercise, by themselves or with friends. They engage in activities that offer creative or intellectual enrichment.
Habit Four: They manage their stress.
Effective parents are intentional about reducing stress in their lives by setting time aside each day to promote 47
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calm and centering. They adopt practices such as prayer, deep breathing and meditation to replenish their inner reserves. Rebecca, a mom of a son who has a diagnosis of autism, says, “When in doubt I choose grace, to forgive people for letting me down or for rejecting my son, for whatever reason.” When parents lead lives that are stress-free and balanced, all family members, especially children, win. Research, by the Gottman Institute supports that children fare better emotionally, socially, and academically when parents manage their stress properly.
Habit Five: They make rest a priority.
While any parent can tire in their parenting responsibilities, parenting a child with special needs can elevate fatigue to a whole different level. Sometime parents don’t realize the extent of their exhaustion. I didn’t. My child’s physical therapist pointed this out to me. Effective parents realize the importance of getting to bed as early as possible, or taking naps to offset the sleep they lose due to their child’s irregular sleep patterns-up and down throughout the night, late to bed, and/or early to rise.
Habit Six: They surround themselves with energy givers. People are either energy zappers or energy givers. Effective parents opt to spend time in the company of people who lift them up, make them feel confident, positive, and happy. They realize energy givers help them to feel energized, inspired and motivated. Parents of special needs children appreciate and need this energy.
Habit Seven: They have a support group.
Parenting a child with special needs can be lonely, however there is no need to be alone in the journey. Effective parents are part of or have created a group of parents whose parenting journeys are similar to theirs. Christy, a single mother of a child with mental health issues shares, “I’ve found that meeting and sharing with people who have raised children with similar issues helps me. They understand what I deal with without me having to explain it. Their support helps me to be calm when I’m with my child.” ESP Judy M. Miller savors time with her kids. She is a Certified Gottman Educator and the author of What To Expect From Your Adopted Tween and Writing to Heal Adoption Grief: Making Connections & Moving Forward.
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Attention Deficit Disorder Assoc. (ADDA)
The Attention Deficit Disorder Association provides information; resources and networking opportunities to help adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder lead better lives. We provide hope, empowerment and connections worldwide by bringing together science and the human experience for both adults with ADHD and professionals who serve them. For more information call or email. (800) 939-1019
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Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders (CHAD)
Provides education, advocacy and support for individuals with AD/HD. In addition to our informative Web site, CHADD also publishes a variety of printed materials to keep members and professionals current on research advances, medications and treatments affecting those with AD/HD. (800) 233-4050
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Dr. Renee Lopez
401 North Section Street, Fairhope Dr. Lopez is the co-developer of Autism Whispers, a national program certifying physicians in the prevention, treatment and recovery of Autism and other Neurodevelopmental disorders (including ADD/ADHD). The program is complete with the Autism Whispers Parent’s Guide, which includes biomedical interventions to evaluate and support neurological, immunologic and metabolic challenges children on the spectrum face. Where to start, what to expect, recipes and meal planning are just a few sections in the Parent’s Guide. Dr. Lopez’s second book is Brain Kids. Its core focus is on empowering parents to grow and develop a healthy brain in children during the following stages of growth and life: 3 month pre-conception, throughout pregnancy, infancy, early childhood and adolescence. Dr. Lopez is a DAN! Doctor and a Generation Rescue Doctor. She is committed to helping all children and their parents lead healthier, more integrated and Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
www.MaximizedLivingDrLopez.com
Feingold Association of the United States
Provides informational materials, online/telephone support, and resources. Helps families introduce lowadditive dietary programs for children with learning/ behavior problems and chemically sensitive adults. (631) 369-9340 www.feingold.org
Focus MD
28080 US Highway 98, Suite F, Daphne Focus MD is a medical practice for kids and young people with AD/HD and related problems. Dr. James Wiley started FOCUS MD so that he would have more time to devote to the diagnosis and treatment of these patients. Focus MD provides objective testing, medical treatment as well as behavior modification strategies. (251) 517-9025
www.focus-md.com
2. Children’s Rehabilitation Service (CRS) CRS District Office - 1610 Center Street Suite A, Mobile. (251) 432-4560, Toll-free number: (800) 879-8163, TTY (800) 499-1816 Children’s Rehabilitation Service (CRS) is a statewide organization of skilled professionals providing quality medical, rehabilitative, coordination and support services for children with special health care needs and their families. Every county in Alabama is served through a network of 14 community-based offices. This network provides specialty clinic and other services by physicians, nurses, social workers, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, audiologists, occupational therapists, registered dietitians, secretaries, and administrators. CRS staff members also work closely with local school systems to enable children with special health care needs to participate fully in school. 3. Vocational Rehabilitation Service (VRS) 2419 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile (251) 479-8611, Tollfree number: (800) 671-6842, TTY: (800) 499-1816. Vocational Rehabilitation Service (VRS), the largest division within the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, helps Alabamians with disabilities achieve independence through employment. VRS provides specialized employment- and education-related services and training to assist teens and adults with disabilities in becoming employed. In addition, VRS works with middle schools, high schools, junior colleges and universities statewide to assist students with disabilities in receiving appropriate educational opportunities. 4. State of Alabama Independent Living / Homebound Service (SAIL) 2419 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile (251) 479-8611, Toll-free number: (888) 388-3245, TTY: (800) 499-1816 The State of Alabama Independent Living / Homebound Service (SAIL) provides specialized in-home education and counseling, attendant care, training and medical services to Alabamians with severe disabilities. The SAIL program has seven community-based offices located throughout the state to serve residents in all 67 counties. SAIL ensures the consumer can live as independently as possible at home and in the community through specialized programs. (334) 293-7500 or (800) 441-7607 www.rehab.alabama.gov
Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network (256) 859-4900 www.alabamarespite.org
Alabama Public Library Service-Alabama Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (800) 392-5671 webmini.apls.state.al.us/apls_web/apls/apls
Alabama Special Education Services (334) 242-9700 www.alsde.edu
Second location: 3930-F Airport Boulevard, Mobile
ALL KIDS Insurance
(251) 378-8635 www.focus-md.com
(888) 373-5437
Alabama Resources
Civitan International Research Center
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
602 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery Unique in the nation, the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services is comprised of state and federal programs that provide a continuum of services from birth through life for Alabamians with disabilities. ADRS has four major programs: 1. Alabama’s Early Intervention System (AEIS) - 1610 Center Street, Suite A, and Mobile (251) 4397890, Toll-free number: (800) 543-3098 or TTY (800) 499-1816. A division of the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, Early Intervention provides supports and services for infants and toddlers birth though age 2 (0 to 36 months of age) who have a medical diagnosis that can delay normal development or who have a developmental delay causing the child to not meet developmental milestones. Early intervention supports and services focus on teaching the parents and other caregiver’s ways to help the child learn and participate in everyday activities.
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www.adph.org/allkids
University of Alabama at Birmingham
(800) 822-2472 or (205) 934-8900 www.circ.uab.edu
Governor’s Office on Disabilities (888) 879-3582
www.good.alabama.gov
Mobile Arc (MARC) (251) 479-7409
www.mobilearc.org
Southeast Americans with Disability Act Center (800) 949-4232 or (404) 541-9001 www.adasoutheast.org
Speech-Language-Hearing Assoc. of Alabama
SHAA offers resources for consumers on our website, though we do not provide or arrange speech and hearing services to consumers. Our mission is to make continuing education and other services available to speech and hearing professionals, in order to maintain the high quality of therapy provided in our state. If you are in need of speech or audiology services, please consult the yellow pages for your area. (256) 325-8885
www.alabamashaa.org
www.easternshoreparents.com
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8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL American Autism & Rehabilitation Center (AARC) is a facility aimed at treating a variety of special needs in one convenient location. Our services are for children and adults and include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychological/diagnostic services, educational services and more. Our highlytrained professionals work collaboratively to provide treatment plans as unique as the individual in order to help patients reach their full potential. We offer a familycentered approach and seek to provide hope and help to each patient and family. (251) 210-1632 www.Americanautismcenter.com
Autism Society of Alabama ad on page 30
205 Lambert Avenue Suite C, Mobile, AL The Autism Society of Alabama’s mission is to improve services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families through education and advocacy. (251) 259-5553 or (877) 4AUTISM www.autism-alabama.org
Alabama Autism & Asperger’s Statewide Info & Support Network
We are uniting, making connections and sharing knowledge and support for all 67 counties in our state & the world. A hub for Autism related info, events, videos, & support. www.alabamaautism.org
Auties & Aspies of LA- Lower Alabama Community Support Group
Fairhope, AL A community dedicated to support for and awareness
of those on the Autism Spectrum and their families in lower Alabama. Our intention is to create a community for families in the lower Alabama area who have members on the spectrum. The goal is to be able to share information, support, inspiration, and prayers with other families who are living similar experiences. Visit and Like our page on Facebook for updates. www.facebook.com/AutiesandAspiesofLA
Autism Society of America
Autism Society of America provides services in the areas of advocacy, education, awareness and research. We provide free, comprehensive, bilingual Information and Referral services via our toll-free number and through our online referral database, Autism Source TM. Our contact center is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (800) 328-8476
Autism Alabama
An initiative of Special Education Services, Alabama Department of Education provides on-line training resources for parents and educational professionals on autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). www.alex.state.al.us/autismAL
Autism Diagnostics Clinic - USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital Pediatric Developmental Medicine Center (PDMC)
1707 Center Street, Suite 201 , Mobile, AL The USA Autism Diagnostic Clinic sees patients with referral from a physician or other medical/educational professional. The mission of this clinic is to improve the lives of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the greater Gulf Coast area through early identification and diagnosis, as well as to provide educational outreach to families, physicians, daycare centers, churches and other organizations who serve children in the community. Autism Spectrum Disorders include Autistic Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). The USA Autism Diagnostic Clinic evaluates patients up to ten years of age. Services include: Medical Assessments-By Developmental-Behavioral Pediatricians to evaluate health-related conditions; Cognitive Evaluation-To determine current developmental level of functioning; Speech/Language Evaluation--To assess communication level; Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS)-To observe social skills and communication abilities during a play session; Genetics Evaluation-To obtain a detailed family history and pertinent genetic laboratory tests; Occupational Therapy Evaluation-To evaluate motor skills, sensory processing abilities, and self care skills; Assistance with Community Resources-Upon completion of the evaluation, the staff will assist the family in obtaining appropriate community services; Consultation-By affiliated specialists with expertise in autism-related conditions. (251) 415-8577 www.usahealthsystem.com/ autism-diagnosis
www.autism-society.org
Autism Speaks
At Autism Speaks, our goal is to change the future for all who struggle with autism spectrum disorders. We are dedicated to funding global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a possible cure for autism. We strive to raise public awareness about autism and its effects on individuals, families, and society: and we work to bring hope to all who deal with the hardships of this disorder. We are committed to raising the funds necessary to support these goals. Autism Speaks aims to bring the autism community together as one strong voice to urge the government and private sector to listen to our concerns and take action to address this urgent global health crisis. It is our firm belief that, working together, we will find the missing pieces of the puzzle. For more information and resources, visit our website. You can also contact the Autism Response Team by calling or emailing us. Autism Response Team coordinators are specially trained to connect individuals with autism and their families with information, resources, and opportunities. (888) 288-4762; en Español (888) 772-9050 www.autismspeaks.org
Our-Kids
Devoted to Raising Special Kids with Special Needs. The Our-Kids list consist of over 700 people representing children of varying diagnosis; everything from indefinite developmental delays and sensory integration problems, to cerebral palsy, to rare genetic disorders. www.our-kids.org
Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital Autism Center 5190 Bayou Boulevard, Building 2 (Seton Medical Office Park) , Pensacola, FL At the Sacred Heart Autism Center, we offer a range of direct services for children on the autism spectrum, all with a family-centered approach to learning. Research shows when families are involved, children do better. Our services include: Direct, individualized Applied
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Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. ABA is a researchbased, systematic method for improving socially significant skills and behaviors; Parent instruction and hands-on training; Social skills groups for various ages; Group training for families and professionals. (850) 416-4933 www.sacred-heart.org/childrenshospital/ autismcenter
TACA (Talk About Curing Autism)
Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) is a national nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to educating, empowering and supporting families affected by autism. For families who have just received the autism diagnosis, TACA aims to speed up the cycle time from the autism diagnosis to effective treatments. TACA helps to strengthen the autism community by connecting families and the professionals who can help them, allowing them to share stories and information to help improve the quality of life for people with autism. (855) 726-7810 or (949) 640-4401 www.tacanow.org
Camps Camp ASCCA ad on page 60
5278 Camp Ascca Drive , Jackson Gap, AL ASCCA is an acronym that stands for Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults. Beginning in 1976, Camp ASCCA has been a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation and is known throughout the world for its superior quality services. Providing camping experiences for children and adults with disabilities, Camp ASCCA is open year-round. Within its barrier-free environment, Camp ASCCA offers 230 wooded acres on the shores of beautiful Lake Martin in Alabama. Camp ASCCA serves an average of 7,000 people annually. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a “splash pad”, outdoor adventure elements like the zip-line, and much more. (256) 825-9226 or (800) THE-CAMP www.campascca.org
Camp-Rap-A-Hope
2701 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL Camp Rap-A-Hope is an organization that provides a week-long summer camp at Camp Grace in Mobile, Alabama and is open to children between the ages of 7 and 17 who have or have ever had cancer. The camp
is offered at no cost to the campers and their families, as cancer has been costly enough. Each year the children enjoy a typical summer camp environment that includes swimming, kayaking, horseback riding, arts and crafts and many other activities depending on the theme for the year. Many of these children have forgotten what it’s like to be a ‘kid’ because much of their childhood has been spent hearing the sounds and seeing the inside of hospitals. It is our privilege to give a part of their childhood back to them through a week of fun-filled camping activities. Camp Rap-A-Hope offers additional opportunities for “fun” throughout the year. Family fun days and Holiday parties are a few ways that Camp continues the fun for the Campers and their families. (251) 476-9880
www.camprapahope.org
CdLS CdLS Foundation (Cornelia de Lange Syndrome)
The Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) Foundation is a family support organization that exists to ensure early and accurate diagnosis of CdLS, promote research into the causes and manifestations of the syndrome, and help people with a diagnosis of CdLS make informed decisions throughout their lives. (800) 753-2357
www.cdlsusa.org
Cerebral Palsy
We strive, every day, to be your ultimate resource for everything Cerebral Palsy. We provide a comprehensive resource, including a website and call center that parents and caregivers of children with special needs can turn to for needed, non-legal help, information and resources. We have recently updated our website to include a wide range of blog topics and have a thriving Facebook community we encourage you to check out! (800) 692-4453 www.cerebralpalsy.org or http://facebook.com/cerebralpalsyorg
United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile
3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile, AL UCP of Mobile is dedicated to advancing the independence of people with disabilities. UCP offers a wide range of services for people of all ages, starting with one of our early intervention programs and continuing through adulthood with our supported employment program. Please contact us for information on several programs we offer. (251) 479-4900 www.ucpmobile.org
Counseling Center for Calm LivingDr. David Kantra and Augusta Kantra, MS, LPC
150 South Church Street, Fairhope, AL Treatment specialization includes psychological testing, ADD, LD, strengths, relationship needs and individual and family therapy. Please visit the website for a list of other services. (251) 928-5363 www.centerforcalmliving.com
Camp Smile
3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile, AL The mission of Camp SMILE is to empower children and adults with disabilities to live their lives without limits by providing an inclusive summer camp experience where there is no limit to the adventure. Camps are typically held from Tuesday – Friday. Each session serves a maximum of 75 campers. Campers are assigned to a counselor who is with them 24 hours/day. A cabin leader, who is a trained adult, supervises each camper/counselor pair. Contact us today for detailed information.
Chris Murphee, Psy.D.
761 Middle Street , Fairhope, AL Dr. Murphree is a licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents. Types of evaluations offered are Learning Problems, ADHD, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Functioning, Behavioral Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Abuse/Trauma and Depressive Disorders. The office accepts many types of insurance plans. Please call our office for an appointment.
(251) 479-4900 www.campsmilemobile.org
(251) 928-4750
Cerebral Palsy.org
Coastal Counseling AssociatesDr. Sharon Ann Friday, PHD, LPC
Our Mission: to provide you with the most comprehensive, FREE resources and compassionate voice for all things related to caring for a child with Cerebral Palsy.
www.ChrisMurphree.org
307 South McKenzie Street, Foley, AL Helping families stay together and deal with special
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support each other in every stage of life. I provide counseling services with Asperger’s Syndrome, ADHD, OCD, teen violence, parenting, family conflict, substance abuse, depression and coping skills.
CrossRhodes at The CentreLinda Colclough MS, LPC
University of South Alabama Psychology Clinic
needs issues. Specializing in trauma. Please call our office today for more information and to schedule appointment.
1290 Main Street, Suite B, Daphne, AL The Centre’s CrossRhodes Art Therapy Program provides counseling for children who are facing life-threatening illnesses. The nurturing therapeutic environment allows them to ask questions and express feelings in a healthy, healing way. Art becomes an added voice for telling their story. It gives them a self-soothing avenue to practice coping strategies they can use in their daily lives. (251) 625-0118
www.thecounselingcentre.com
Crossway Counseling Center, Inc.
27625 U.S. Highway 98 Building A, Daphne, AL CrossWay Counseling is a full Service Counseling Center assisting children and their families with the challenges presented by special needs. Our professionally trained counselors apply their knowledge of psychology and Biblical principles to serve individuals, couples, and families. The staff is trained to deal with a wide range of issues. You are encouraged to visit the Therapists page of the website for a summary of each therapist’s experience and his/her areas of specialty. For more information call or email our office. (251) 626-7959
www.crosswaycounseling.org
Focal Point Professional ServicesBarry Swope, LPC
6642 Park Drive, Suite B, Daphne, AL We offer ADHD and ADD assessments and related services. Our services also include individual and family counseling, drug treatment and conduct/emotional problems with adolescents. Visit our website or email our office.
(251) 379-0531
307 University Boulevard N, UCOM 2000, Mobile, AL As a training clinic for the USA Clinical and Counseling Psychology doctoral training program, USA Psychological Clinic also offers low-cost services for children, adults, and families, including psychological testing and counseling, martial counseling, and stress management. Under the supervision of Licensed Psychologists, graduate students provide a variety of clinical services with reduced fees. Psychology faculty members also see clients for a fee and accept some insurance. Services offered include Individual Therapy (Adult and Child), Family Therapy, Group Therapy, The JAGSS Group (Junior Autism Group for Social Skills), Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Evaluations and Assessments. (251) 460-7149 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/artsandsci/psychology
Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Mobile Chapter
205 Lambert Avenue, Suite B , Mobile, AL The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is the world’s leader in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis. We fund more CF research than any other organization, and nearly every CF drug available today was made possible because of Foundation support. (251) 436-0013 www.cff.org/Chapters/mobile or www. alabama.cff.org
(251) 625-6448 www.focalpointps.com
Larry D. Faison, Ph.D.
27787 Moniac Cove , Daphne, AL Specializing in ADHD, bi-polar disorder, behavior problems, and depression. We offer testing, counseling and consultation for children and adults. Evening and Saturday appointments are also available. (251) 605-6927
Professional Counseling Associates Eastern Shore Counseling
29000 Highway 98, Suite A102, Daphne, AL Faith based counseling services including AD/HD screenings, anxiety issues, relationship counseling and depression. Please visit the website for a full list of counseling services offered. (251) 626-5797
www.easternshorecounseling.com
Stephanie Wright Williamson, LLCU
7 South Summit Street, Fairhope, AL My passion is helping individuals, families and children
Down Syndrome Down Syndrome Alabama
Down Syndrome Alabama’s mission is to promote awareness, acceptance and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome of all ages. (205) 988-0810 www.downsyndromealabama.org
Down Syndrome Society of Mobile County
2827 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL Our mission is to provide enrichment through education, networking opportunities, advocacy, and emotional support for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the greater community. (888) 454-0317 www.dssmobile.org
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Dyslexia Read-Write Baldwin County ad on page 51
1048 Stanton Road Suite G, Daphne, AL Read Write offers educational consulting, testing, and one-on-one academic therapy for students with language based learning disabilities such as dyslexia. We offer instruction in the following areas: reading, spelling, written expression, handwriting, grammar, math, and technology. We have special programs for homeschooled students and preschoolers. (251) 625-4020 baldwinoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com
and/or spelling? Our program uses a multi-sensory approach to teach all subjects including cursive writing. Lighthouse Learning Center offers hybrid homeschooling for students with dyslexia, after school dyslexia therapy, math tutoring, screening and evaluations. For more information call Holli Hinton, M.Ed.,CALT or Susanne Avery. (251) 747-6464 or (601) 319-9332 www.lighthousereadinglab.com
Educational Resources High Hopes Campus of St. Benedict’s School ad on page 11
Renaissance Center of the Eastern Shore ad on page 20
Renaissance Center of the Eastern Shore is excited to offer several enrichment opportunities to local families. We pride ourselves in creating a learning environment that values the student as an individual, and helps each to realize his or her potential. Our curricular opportunities are designed to help our students propel past the barriers that are keeping them from fulfilling both their academic and life goals.We offer individual and group sessions for reading difficulties, services for dyslexia & dysgraphia, math tutoring, homework helper class, arts/writing tutoring, academic therapy and more. Formerly Learning Lagniappe, LLC. The Renaissance Center of the Eastern Shore is a tax-deductible, nonprofit 501(c)(3). For more information visit our website or find us on Facebook. (251) -990-0041 www.ESRenaissance.org
Lighthouse Learning Center
Do you have a child who struggles with reading, writing
12786 South Illinois Street, Elberta, AL Our objective is to prepare children affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental delays to independently participate in a traditional classroom. At High Hopes we specialize in preschool age children. We encourage parents and families to seek appropriate services for their child as soon as a need is suspected. Diagnosis is not required for any of our programs. We understand that it takes the whole family to make real progress. We practice research based Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) techniques. We offer Individual ABA Therapy and Shadowing in the classroom. We also offer computer monitoring from your home while your child is in therapy. (251) 986-7007
www.highhopes4autism.org
Huntington Learning Center ad on page 50
6880 Us Highway 90, Suite 13 , Daphne, AL Huntington Learning Center helps students of all ages and skill levels build the skills, confidence and motivation to succeed. Whether your student is looking for
a better report card, stronger study skills, or a higher score on the ACT or SAT, Huntington offers a tutoring solution for you. The specialized ADHD program provides students with the immediate feedback and guidance they need to focus and grow. The Advanced Study Skills Program is a tailored program designed for students in 8th grade and higher to develop their study skills. At Huntington it’s about giving students the personal confidence and external support they need to reach their full potential and encouraging them to strive higher, work harder, and dream bigger. Come by our local center, visit our website or call to begin your child’s individualized program today. (251) 621-1057
www.daphne.huntingtonhelps.com
Read-Write Baldwin County ad on page 51
1048 Stanton Road Suite G, Daphne, AL Read Write offers educational consulting, testing, and one-on-one academic therapy for students with language based learning disabilities such as dyslexia. We offer instruction in the following areas: reading, spelling, written expression, handwriting, grammar, math, and technology. We have special programs for homeschooled students and preschoolers. (251) 625-4020 baldwinoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com
Renaissance Center of the Eastern Shore is excited to offer several enrichment opportunities to local families. We pride ourselves in creating a learning environment that values the student as an individual, and helps each to realize his or her potential. Our curricular opportunities are designed to help our students propel past the barriers that are keeping them from fulfilling
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Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!
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... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...
waiting lists start early...sign up soon!... Waitingwww.riverviewcamp.com! lists start early...sign up soon!... 1
Call for FREE DVD and catalog 1-800-882-0722 Accredited by American Camping Association • Members of Christian Camping International
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www.riverviewcamp.com
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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both their academic and life goals.We offer individual and group sessions for reading difficulties, services for dyslexia & dysgraphia, math tutoring, homework helper class, arts/writing tutoring, academic therapy and more. Formerly Learning Lagniappe, LLC. The Renaissance Center of the Eastern Shore is a tax-deductible, nonprofit 501(c)(3). For more information visit our website or find us on Facebook. (251) -990-0041 www.ESRenaissance.org
The Think Tank ad on page 63
355 Manchester Lane, Foley, AL The Think Tank Tutoring provides one-on-one in-home tutoring to general education, learning disabled and homebound students. In addition to working oneon-one with students, The Think Tank tutors provide educational strategies to parents during each tutoring session. The Think Tank Tutoring and Educational Services works directly with the student’s teachers ensuring we follow the Individual Education Plan for special needs students. In addition, we follow the student’s current classroom curriculum. The Think Tank Tutoring provides homework help, test preparation, and study skills to students in grades Pre-K through 12 in all subjects. We have qualified educators to work with ADD, ADHD, hearing impaired, MR, Dyslexic, and speech impaired students. (251) 414-4494
www.thethinktanktutoring.com
Baldwin County Public School System
The Baldwin County School System offers speech-language evaluations and therapy (if eligible) for children ages 3 and up. This service is available to children by law regardless of if they attend private, public or are homeschooled. Disabilities recognized include Autism, Deaf-Blindness, Developmental Delay, Emotional Disability, Hearing Impairment, Intellectual Disabilities,
Multiple Disabilities, Orthopedic Impairment, Specific Learning Disability, Speech or Language Impairment, Traumatic Brain Injury and Visual Impairment. For more information call or email our Special Services Department. (251) 972-6860 www.bcbe.org
(251) 210-1337 www.sylvanlearning.com
The Learning Tree
Bright Beginnings Academy
3590 Pleasant Valley Road, Mobile, AL Bright Beginnings Academy was developed to give parents an alternative for their children’s education. Each child is unique and should be taught in unique ways. At Bright Beginnings each child is individually challenged and taught to meet his/her specific needs. An individual educational plan is developed for each child and is taught in small group settings. Full day academic programs specializing in dyslexia. All subjects. Serving grades 1st – 8th. (251) 525-9105 www.brightdyslexics.com
Lighthouse Learning Center
Do you have a child who struggles with reading, writing and/or spelling? Our program uses a multi-sensory approach to teach all subjects including cursive writing. Lighthouse Learning Center offers hybrid homeschooling for students with dyslexia, after school dyslexia therapy, math tutoring, screening and evaluations. For more information call Holli Hinton, M.Ed.,CALT or Susanne Avery. (251) 747-6464 or (601) 319-9332 www.lighthousereadinglab.com
Sylvan
school year off right. Our Tutoring Services include math, reading, writing, study skills, homework help, summer camps, state test prep, SAT/ACT prep, College Prep, SylvanSync, and many other services.
27000 Bass Pro Drive, Spanish Fort, AL A Better School Year Starts with Sylvan. Don’t worry about falling behind get your child the help he or she needs today. Partner with Sylvan to give your child a leg up on schoolwork and a boost in confidence. Let our proven tutoring approach help your child start the
4979 Lott Road, Eight Mile, AL The Learning Tree, Inc. is a non-profit organization that provides educational and residential services for children and adolescents, ages 2 ½ -21, with developmental disabilities, including autism. The organization also provides and Individual and professional consultation and training. Programs are located in Mobile, Anniston, Auburn Jacksonville, and Tallassee. (251) 649-4420 www.learning-tree.org
The Learning Tree –The Little Tree Preschool
1176 Azalea Road, Mobile, AL The Little Tree Preschool offers high quality preschool education for children ages 2 ½ - 5. Low studentteacher ratios are maintained and teachers are certified. Children are encouraged to grow as learners by building on individual strengths to establish a strong foundation for school success. The preschool includes services for children with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. The Little Tree Preschool is an inclusive learning environment that focuses on teaching readiness and prerequisite skills to prepare children for primary school. The curriculum is comprehensive and encourages children to explore and discover answers, and we provide a social setting to promote healthy self-esteem and sensitivity to the needs of others. (251) 649-4220 (ext. 1225) or (251) 649-1226 www.learning-tree.org
The Learning Tree-Woody’s Song School 5459 Able Court, Mobile, AL
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Woody’s Song School serves children ages 5-18 on the autism spectrum. The private, nonprofit school is a tuition-based, twelve month, day program. The school helps children with autism increase their skills in the areas of language, socialization and cognitive skills while decreasing behaviors that interfere with their learning. (251) 331-8021 www.learning-tree.org
WyzAnt Tutoring
Looking for a tutor that specializes in working with your child’s special needs? Simply visit the website, type in the type of special need (ADD, Autism, Down Syndrome, Asperger’s, etc.) and your zip code to be connected with tutors in your area. Our “Good Fit Guarantee” protects your first hour with any tutor. You don’t pay for tutoring unless you find a good fit! (877) 999-2681 or (312) 646-6365 www.wyzant.com
Epilepsy Epilepsy Foundation
The Epilepsy Foundation, a national non-profit with nearly 50 local organizations throughout the United States, has led the fight against seizures since 1968. The Foundation is an unwavering ally for individuals and families impacted by epilepsy and seizures. The Foundation works to prevent, control, and cure epilepsy through community services; public education; federal and local advocacy; and supporting research into new treatments and therapies. The Foundation works to ensure that people with seizures have the opportunity to live their lives to their fullest potential. (800) 332-1000
www.epilepsyfoundation.org
Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama
273 Azalea Road # 310, Mobile, AL The Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama has a mission to
educate and support individuals with epilepsy and their families, to increase awareness in the general community and to facilitate prevention and management of epilepsy. This includes providing services and programs for people with epilepsy and their families; educating and increasing awareness about epilepsy; providing leadership in advocacy for epilepsy issues and collaborating with other community resources in support of the mission of the people with seizure disorders. (251) 341-0170 or (800) 626-1582 www.efala.org
Financial Resources
Family Support
1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL Family Support is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides assistance to those with disabilities. We help families in south Alabama help themselves by offering emotional support, information, referrals, flexible financial assistance, and special project assistance, all provided through local area volunteer councils. An area council member must be an adult with a disability or a family member of a child with a disability. Assistance may include information and referrals, home modifications, food, clothing, therapy, prescription drugs, utilities assistance, childcare, special holiday help, etc.
100 Union Street , Montgomery, AL The Alabama Department of Mental Health envisions a future for Alabama when everyone with a mental health need at any state of life has access to effective care and supports essential for living, working, learning and participating fully in the community with dignity, respect and hope.
Medicaid Waiver Program
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Individual & Family Support
Dr. Gerald Oveson, Director, Providing financial support to families with developmental disabilities and head/ spinal cord injuries. For more information email susanpolizzi@comcast.net. (251) 455-6760 or (251) 438-1609
Joyful Journey Mom’s Ultimate Guide
Disabled Children Relief Fund
www.joyfuljourneymom.com/ultimate-list-of-grants-andresources-for-families-with-special-needs/
(516) 377-1605 www.rarediseases.org/organizations/ disabled-childrens-relief-fund/
Info on intellectual disabilities and living at home waiver.
This waiver program provides services to disabled adults age 18 years or older who have specific medical diagnoses and who would otherwise qualify for care in a nursing care facility. Diagnoses may include but not limited to; Quadriplegia, Traumatic Brain Injury, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Multiple Sclerosis,
Marshall Shoemaker, M.D., and staff
Welcome
Jessica Jones, M.D.
Jessica Jones, M.D. Now accepting patients.
Pictured left to right: Marshall Shoemaker, M.D.; Jessica Jones, M.D.; Heather Talbot, Nurse Practitioner; Carla S. Corte, Nurse Practitioner
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Joyful Journey Mom posted the “Ultimate List of Grants and Resources for Families with Special Needs”.
www.famsupport.com
(800) 367-0955 or (334) 242- 3454 www.mh.alabama.gov
The Disabled Children’s Relief Fund is a national, nonprofit organization dedicated to acting as an advocate for the rights and needs of children with disabilities. Founded in 1990, DCRF provides cash grants for disabled children, with preference given to families who do not have health insurance. Grants are provided for assistive devices, equipment, and rehabilitative services, as well as for innovative arts and humanitarian services for children with disabilities. DCRF publishes a regular newsletter entitled “The Challenger.”
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Muscular dystrophy, Spinal muscular atrophy, severe cerebral palsy, Stroke, and other substantial neurological impairments, severely debilitating disease or rare genetic diseases. (800) 441-7607 www.medicaid.alabama.gov/CONTENT/4.0_Programs/4.3.0_LTC/4.3.1.5_State_Ala_Ind_ Liv_Waiver.aspx;
The Rileigh & Raylee Angel Ride Foundation
The 2016 Angel Ride will be October 28th & 29th. at Oak Hollow Farms in Fairhope. The Rileigh and Raylee Angel Ride Foundation was started by the inspiration of two children -Rileigh Glass and Raylee Odom. Rileigh was born with Down syndrome and Raylee with Muscular Dystrophy. The mission of the foundation is to provide financial assistance to families of children with unforeseen health problems. Upon careful review of an applicant’s files, awards are distributed on a needs basis. All files are documented with medical diagnosis, physician recommendations, family income, expense records; and an estimated cost of transportation, food and lodging. The Foundation genuinely seeks to assist families faced with financial burdens when health complications are not covered by health plans. For more information call or email MC McDaniel or Dr. Albert Corte. (251) 367-1981 or (251) 626-2654 www.angel-ride.org
General Resources AltaPointe Health Systems – Children’s Outpatient Services in Baldwin County
ad on page 40
2009 Medical Center Drive, Bay Minette, AL Children and teens with emotional problems need special attention and specialized care in an environment especially designed for them. AltaPointe Children’s Outpatient Services provides treatment for children and
teens ages 3-19, and their families, with the ultimate goal of helping them maintain stability in the community. AltaPointe’s therapists use state-of-the-art, evidence-based practices. They specialize in treating trauma, grief, child sexual abuse, emotional and behavioral problems or significant school-related issues. Treatment focuses on problem resolution, symptom reduction, stabilization and/or prevention of movement to a higher level of care. Treatment is highly variable and depends upon the individual’s existing symptoms. (251) 450-2211 or (888) 335-3044 http://altapointe.org/ altapointe-services/child-outpatient-services/
Additional locations:
(251) 990-3112 www.3circlechurch.com
372 South Greeno Rd, Fairhope 201 East Camphor Avenue, Foley
4 Paws for Ability
BayView Professional Associates ad on page 40
24190 U.S. 98 (Suite D), Fairhope, AL BayView’s professional clinicians offer confidential and supportive, solution-focused counseling that can help children and families with problems, such as erratic behavior, aggression towards self or others, difficulty concentrating, unexplained weight loss, even physical symptoms like headaches. Our comprehensive clinical services consist of an interdisciplinary team including a child/adolescent board-certified psychiatrist, psychologists, and psychotherapists that provide complete evaluations and tests for learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, and cognitive (thinking) problems in addition to psychotherapy and treatment for children, adolescents and adults. (251) 660-2360 or (888) 335-3044 www.bayview-associates.org
3Circle Church Special Needs Ministry
10274 Hwy 104 , Fairhope, AL All of God’s children were created by Him and are pre-
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cious to Him! Our Special Needs Ministry is designed to partner with the parents of children with various medical and physical challenges. Our team is committed to spending the entire service time teaching your child about Christ; we utilize a fun and engaging curriculum, specifically tailored to special needs children. The Special Needs Ministry currently meets during the 9:30 gathering on Sunday mornings. We also offer a quarterly “ Parents Night Out” for children and siblings in the Special Needs Ministry, as well as partner with Premier Cinema for Sensory Friendly Screenings. Please contact us at info@3circlechurch.com with any questions you might have!
4 Paws for Ability enriches the lives of children with disabilities by training and placing quality, task-trained service dogs. www.4pawsforability.org
Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities 100 North Union Street , Montgomery, AL Our Mission is to promote and support independence, advocacy, productivity and inclusion for Alabamians with developmental disabilities. (334) 242-3973 or (800) 232-2158 www.acdd.org
Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program
205 North Conception Street, Mobile, AL The Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP) is part of the nationwide federally mandated protection and advocacy (P&A) system. ADAP’s mission is to provide quality, legal advocacy services to Alabamians with disabilities in order to protect, promote and expand their rights. ADAP’s vision is one of a society where persons with disabilities are valued and exercise selfdetermination through meaningful choices, and have equality of opportunity. (251) 338-0950 or (205) 534-9373 www.adap.net
www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine
Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind
1050 Government Street , Mobile, AL Our Mobile Regional Office serves Baldwin, Mobile, Clarke, Washington, Monroe, Conecuh, and Escambia Counties. The earlier children learn the better they progress. Some experts estimate that up to 20% of the skills learned in a lifetime are learned in the first five years. That’s why we place so much emphasis on helping families, and encourage families to come forward with their concerns as early as possible. Everyone around your child can be a teacher. Infants and toddlers will soak up language and information from every source. Regional Center staff members can give you the skills to make this happen. It takes time and creativity to communicate with a child who is blind or deaf, but the rewards of making that effort are incalculable.
have been determined to be experiencing dyslexia, language-learning disabilities, or severe speech or language disabilities. We will work collaboratively with teachers and other members of the IEP team to develop goals and benchmarks necessary to assist students in reaching their academic potential. We will also provide teachers with inservice training in the areas of identification and remediation of dyslexia, in-service training in the areas of languagelearning disabilities and severe speech or language disabilities. Free testing of speech and language disorders including dyslexia. (205) 365-1640 www.alsrlcenter.org
ARC - Baldwin County
We are happy to serve as consultants to teachers of students whom we have evaluated and who
3650 South Magnolia Street, Loxley, AL It is the mission of the ARCBC, Inc. to ensure that appropriate and quality services are available to intellectual disabilities and/or developmental disabilities. We provide a wide array of service options that can be tailored to individual needs. ARC-BC promotes family unity with community support systems to enhance the quality of life of citizens with intellectual disabilities and/or developmental disabilities in Baldwin County. We offer 3 separate locations in Loxley, Robertsdale and Foley. Visit our website and contact our
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(251) 432-7777 www.aidb.org
Alabama Scottish Rite Learning Center
Director Kathy Fleet for more information. (251) 964-4451 or (251) 978-9125 www.arcbaldwincounty.org
Canine Companions for Independence
Largest non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships. We train four types of assistance dogs to master over 40 specialized commands: Service Dogs, Skilled Companions, Hearing Dogs and Facility Dogs. www.cci.org
Community Services for Vision Rehabilitation
29653 Anchor Cross Boulevard, Daphne, AL Community Services for Vision Rehabilitation is a non-profit organization, dedicated to helping those with low vision and blindness. We have offices in Mobile, Montgomery and the Fairhope/Daphne area. The clinic provides professional evaluation by eye doctors (ODs and MDs), occupational therapists, ophthalmic technicians, computer specialists and others. We work in collaboration with state agencies and regional and national resources. (251) 928-2888 www.csvrlowvision.org
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Dianne Craft has a wonderful website filled with information, articles and resources for all learning disabilities including dyslexia, auditory processing and right/left brain learning. We provide nutritional therapy and supplement recommendations. You can purchase Dianne’s DVDs, CDs, Books, vitamins, and other various products through her online store.
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bilitation program sites and the world’s largest barrier free recreational camp, Camp ASCCA. Easter Seals Alabama services include: Medical Rehabilitation, Early Intervention, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Hearing Therapy, Job Training and Employment, Child Care & Camping and Recreation. We provide services for people with disabilities and their families. For information visit our website or email us.
(334) 395-4489
www.alabama.easterseals.com
Easter Seals of the Gulf Coast
2448 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL Easter Seals offers Parent Education and Support, Child Development Centers, Early Intervention and a Wonderful Recreation Program that provides schoolage children (6 - 12) of all abilities the opportunity to participate in a variety of community activities. Sessions include gymnastics, rock wall climbing, bowling, skating, music & movement, and tee ball. The University of South Alabama assists our staff by utilizing Volunteers in the Therapeutic Recreation and Occupational Therapy programs. (251) 471-1581
www.goodwill-easterseals.org
ESpecial Needs
Especial Needs is dedicated to providing our clients with the best selection of adaptive equipment, rehab equipment and therapy solutions for children and adults with special needs. With over 10,000 special needs products focused to mobility, sensory needs and independent living, our experienced staff strives to provide the highest quality service. From the homepage, at the bottom, click on “Funding” to see a list of funding resources. www.especialneeds.com
Family Tree Chiropractic
8158 Highway 59, Suite 106, Foley Dr. Jen Aliment is a member of EPIC Pediatrics, a
chiropractic training program specializing in taking care of pediatric and special needs patients. (251) 943-0569
www.familytreefoley.com
Guide Dog Foundation
To improve the quality of life for people who are blind, have low vision, or have other special needs. (800) 548-4337 www.guidedog.org
March of Dimes Mobile Alabama Chapter
205 Lambert Street, Suite A , Mobile, AL The March of Dimes Alabama Chapter has a passion to help babies in our community start life in the healthiest way possible. Through education and intervention, we help moms-to-be learn how to take care of themselves before, during and after their pregnancy. We are also available when things don’t go as planned, providing comfort and information to families when a baby is born too soon. The Alabama Chapter also partners with local medical groups and organizations to establish guidelines for how to care for pregnant women and premature babies. We provide grants to researchers working to understand birth defects and premature birth and to find treatments and solutions. To find out how you can be more involved call or email Riley Bridges, Sr. Development Manager. (251) 438-1360
www.marchofdimes.com/alabama
Mental Health-National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI BALDWIN COUNTY)
NAMI Alabama is an organization comprised of local support and advocacy groups throughout the state dedicated to improving the quality of life for persons with a mental illness in Alabama. The mission statement/purpose of NAMI Alabama is to provide support, education, and advocacy for persons with mental illnesses, their families, and others whose lives are affected by these brain disorders. Family Support Group: Groups are held 1st and 3rd Thursday 6:30
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p.m. - 8 p.m., 308 Greeno Road, Fairhope at The Harbor. Contact: Vonnie Hamilton, (251) 424-7918 or vlbeall13@gmail.com. Connection Group: 1st and 3rd Thursday, 6:30pm - 8pm, 308 Greeno Road, Fairhope at The Harbor Contact: James Hamilton, (251) 504-9769 adamanntt13@gmail.com Educational Programs: Family-To-Family 12-week educational program, Contact: James Hamilton or Vonnie Hamilton, (251) 504-9769 or (251) 424-7918 NAMI Basics: 6-week educational program. Contact: Melissa Shilling, (251) 402-4115 or namibc@gulftel.com. Peer to Peer: 10 weeks educational program. Contact: James Hamilton. (334) 396-4797 or (251) 965-6264 www.namialabama.org or www.namibaldwincounty.org
Mobile Association for the Blind
2440 Gordon Smith Drive , Mobile, AL In 1924, a group of concerned citizens in Mobile started the Mobile The Mobile Association for the Blind is a facility where many visually impaired individuals who are not able to join the public workforce are employed in our Sheltered Workshop. Our organization also provides assistance to other citizens with disabilities. Counseling and evaluation, skills training, and job placement are just some of the services we provide to help create the self-esteem needed to become productive members of society. (251) 473-3585 or (877) 292-5463
Mulherin Custodial Home
2496 Halls Mill Road, Mobile, AL Mulherin Home provides a home for individuals, children and adults with developmental disabilities. Our foremost concern is the happiness, comfort, and welfare of the residents at Mulherin Home. The Mulherin Custodial Home is a 501(c) (3) organization, and a United Way agency. (251) 471-1998
www.mulherinhome.com
www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine
Project Lifesaver (251) 972-6845
S. W. Regional School for the Deaf and Blind
3980 Burma Road , Mobile, AL The mission of the Southwest Alabama Regional School for the Deaf and Blind is to create a positive, supportive educational environment that provides opportunities for sensory impaired students to reach individual potential in the areas of academics, independence, responsibility and social competence. This will be accomplished through the implementation of appropriate curricula, utilizing specialized communication and equipment, directed by a cooperative, dedicated, specially trained faculty and staff supported by parents and the community. (251) 221-5454 www.afb.org or http://regional.mcs. schoolinsites.com (please note, using www with this address does not work, you must type in http://)
Santa America
308 Belrose Avenue , Daphne, AL Santa America is a national volunteer service organization with a very special mission. Over one hundred Santa’s across America visit children and families in crisis. Santa Claus visits when a child or family needs him—twelve months a year—bringing love, hope and joy to special needs children in a loving visit of about an hour at home, hospital, or hospice. Santa’s visits are free. There is no charge for a visit from Santa Claus—ever. (251) 626-6609
www.santaamerica.org
Sight Savers America
337 Business Circle, Pelham, AL Sight Savers America works to identify and secure treatment for these needs, from the first pair of eyeglasses that allow a child to succeed academically and gain more self-confidence, to extensive sight saving
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
treatment for serious eye conditions. With the help of our partners and donors, we work to ensure that every child is as healthy as he or she can be! Sight Savers America is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) that assists children with obtaining eye exams, glasses, and other needed eye care from local eye care providers and clinics. (877) 942-2627
www.sightsaversamerica.org
Speech-Language-Hearing Assoc. of Alabama ASHA is committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language, and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively. For more information please contact Vickie Copeland. (256) 325-8885
www.alabamashaa.org
The Listening Program
The Listening Program (TLP) is a music listening therapy that provides engaging brain stimulation to improve performance in school, work and life. It gently trains the auditory system to accurately process sound. Auditory processing problems can lead to academic, emotional, cognitive and social challenges, including problems with ADD, Listening, Speech & language, memory, communication, Social skills, reading, Sensory Integration, Balance and coordination and self-regulation. Auditory processing problems are often found in children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD, dyslexia and learning disabilities. (888) 228-1798 or (801) 622-5676 www.advancedbrain.com
Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive Clothing
Tommy Hilfiger proudly partnered with Runway of Dreams™ to create a very special collection addressing the challenges the differently-abled community faces each day when getting dressed. Faux buttons and cuff plackets conceal a patented MagnaReady® magnet closure for ease of dressing. www.tommy.com
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Muscular Dystrophy Alabama Muscular Dystrophy Association
Birmingham, AL MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to finding treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. (205) 823-8191 or (800) 572-1717 www.mdausa.org
Organizations for Parents Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)
10520 US Highway 231, Wetumpka, AL We believe that parents have the greatest impact on their children’s lives. APEC provides families with the training, information and support they need to help them ensure that their children become productive, well-educated citizens. Please contact us or visit our website for detailed information. (866) 532-7660 or (334) 567-9938 www.alabamaparentcenter.com
Family Voices of Alabama
1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL Family Voices of Alabama (FV of AL) aims to achieve family-centered care for all children and youth with special health care needs and/or disabilities. Through our national network, we provide families tools to make informed decisions, advocate for improved public and private policies, build partnerships among professionals and families, and serve as a trusted resource on health care. (877) 771-3862
www.familyvoicesal.org
Parent to Parent USA
Parent-to-Parent USA (P2PUSA) is a national non-
www.easternshoreparents.com
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Physical & Speech Therapy American Autism and Rehabilitation Center ad on page 3
8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL American Autism & Rehabilitation Center (AARC) is a facility aimed at treating a variety of special needs in one convenient location. Our services are for children and adults and include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychological/diagnostic services, educational services and more. Our highlytrained professionals work collaboratively to provide treatment plans as unique as the individual in order to help patients reach their full potential. We offer a familycentered approach and seek to provide hope and help to each patient and family. (251) 210-1632 www.Americanautismcenter.com
BlueBird Pediatric Therapy, Inc. ad on page 24
6312 Piccadilly Square Drive, Suite 3, Mobile, AL At Bluebird Therapy, we offer occupational therapy, speech therapy, feeding therapy and special needs kid’s yoga. We believe in providing therapy that addresses the whole child and ultimately, helps the family provide their child with independence and confidence.
Each service focuses on addressing the child’s needs through a playful and encouraging environment that is grounded in child development and focuses on purposeful play to promote the areas of need while also teaching the parents what to do at home to further promote their child’s abilities. Some of the special techniques that we use during occupational therapy and speech therapy treatment include, Integrative Listening Systems, Sensory Integration Techniques, Handwriting Without Tears, DIR/Floor time Concepts, Neurodevelopmental Treatment Techniques, Brain Gym, Kinesiotaping, Augmentative Communication, Kaufman Approach to Apraxia, etc. Our feeding therapy team consists of an occupational therapist and speech therapist who use a holistic approach that focuses on helping the child overcome the sensory, oral motor and behavioral difficulties that can inhibit the child from having age appropriate feeding skills and an age appropriate diet for the appropriate caloric and nutrient intake for a healthy lifestyle. The feeding therapists have training with the SOS Feeding Therapy Approach, Beckman Oral Motor Approach, and the Melanie Potock-It’s not just about Swallowing Approach. We currently have openings available for new client evaluations and are in-network providers for a variety of insurance companies. Give us a call today to find out more about the services we offer or to find out how to sign up! We look forward to meeting you! (251) 287-0378 www.bluebirdtherapy.com
Jubilee Pediatric Speech Services, LLC ad on page 32
9086 Merritt Lane, Daphne, AL Providing quality speech and language therapy to children while partnering with parents to promote communication development. (251) 340-2166 www.jubileespeech.com
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Pediatric Physical Therapy of Mobile ad on page 22
881 Hillcrest Road, Mobile, AL It is the mission of Pediatric Physical Therapy to provide Mobile and Baldwin County pediatric patients with options for out-patient physical therapy services. Treatment will be individualized, assertive, and aggressive to maximize functional outcomes. We strive to have child-friendly, play-based treatment programs which are family centered. We believe in empowering the patient and the family to heal themselves through patient education. We believe in physical fitness for all ages and abilities thus will promote pediatric fitness and sports. Pediatric Physical Therapy strives to utilize state of the art technology and evidence based practice during treatment. Families will be guided toward area community resources. Services will be coordinated with other community agencies and other health professionals working with the child. We will provide students of physical therapy a problem based clinical with emphasis on adult learning. The clinic will practice according to the guidelines and ethics of the American Physical Therapy Association. (251) 450-0070 www.pptmobile.com
Therapy Services at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital ad on Inside Front Cover
1610 Center Street, Mobile, AL Therapy Services at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital offers a team-oriented program of pediatric physical, occupational and speech-language therapies. Services are provided on both an inpatient and outpatient basis. We offer pediatric-specific care for infants and children with varied diagnoses. Services include assessment and treatment of: Developmental Delays, Orthopedic Injuries, Neuromuscular Problems—Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, etc., Burns and Wounds, Speech and Language Deficits, Feeding Problems, Sensory
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Problems, Attention Problems & Loss of Function Due to Chronic Illness. (251) 415-1670 www.usahealthsystem.com
Thomas Hospital Pediatric Rehabilitation ad on page 56
212 Hospital Drive, Suite B , Fairhope, AL Thomas Hospital’s Pediatric Rehabilitation Department provides comprehensive care to children who require occupational, physical, and speech therapy. Located in the Wellness Center at Thomas Hospital, we offer an environment where all 3 therapies can work together with families to guarantee each child is receiving exactly what he or she needs. Our facility enables us to meet the unique needs of our patients from birth through adolescence and allows parents to be an integral part of their child’s therapy. Therapy gyms and offices have viewing windows and headphone systems for parents to observe their child’s therapy sessions, full spectrum lighting to enhance learning needs of patients, and wireless laptop computers to further diminish distractions. Some of the specialized treatment modalities provided at Thomas Hospital include: Vital-Stem neuro-muscular electrical stimulation for Dysphagia, Augmentative/Alternative communication training and support, Ipad applications, Integrated Listening System training (ILs), Interactive Metronome, TheraSuit, Lite Gait, Braces, AFOs, splinting, and a comprehensive team for feeding/swallowing therapy. Visit us on Facebook at Infirmary Health Pediatric Therapy. (251) 279-1640
www.infirmatryhealth.org
USA Speech and Hearing Clinic ad on Inside Front Cover
1119 HAHN, 5721 USA Drive North, Mobile, AL The clinic serves two primary purposes: to provide services in speech, language and hearing to citizens of Mobile and surrounding areas and to provide the supervised clinical experiences needed by the students for graduation and to obtain professional licensure/ certification. Because the USA Speech and Hearing Clinic functions as a service facility and teaching facility, activities and procedures address both purposes. Diagnostic and treatment services in speech, language and hearing are provided to persons of all ages and with all types of speech-language and hearing disorders.
(251) 445-9378 www.usahealthsystem.com or www. southalabama.edu/alliedhealth/speechandhearing/clinic.html
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Buckaroo Barn
39821 Duffee Lane, Bay Minette, AL Buckaroo Barn, LLC provides physical therapy specializing in hippotherapy for special little buckaroos. Kristye Chastang is certified to use hippotherapy as a treatment tool for children with disabilities. Hippotherapy is a therapy tool which uses the movement of the horse to influence the patient’s posture, balance, stability & sensory processing. The therapist can direct the movement of the horse, analyze the patient’s response and adjust the treatment accordingly. It is rewarding for every one involved & is so much fun, the kids won’t even know its therapy. Visit our website or call for information. (251) 604-3904 www.buckaroobarnllc.com
Equine Education Consultants, Inc. at Lake Forest Stables
268 Equine Circle, Daphne, AL Equine Educational Consultants, Inc. was created to provide an opportunity for those with special needs to experience the joy and motivation that horses provide just by allowing us to share their world. For more information call or email the Stables. (251) 210-8819
www.lakeforeststables.org
Gulf Coast Therapy
21040 Miflin Road, Foley, AL Gulf Coast Therapy is a state-of-the-art outpatient therapy center serving Mobile and Baldwin County. We are committed to offering our patients a center of excellence for the treatment of pain and/or disability. The mission of Gulf Coast Therapy is to provide our patients with the skills they need in order to function at their highest level of independence and increase their quality of life. Services include: early intervention, outpatient pediatrics and school-based therapy. (251) 923-0888 www.gulfcoasttherapy.com
Second location:
9890 Twin Beech Road, Fairhope, AL
(251) 928-7312 www.gulfcoasttherapy.com
Kids Kount- Therapy Services, LLC
26420 Kensington Place, Suite C , Daphne, AL Kids Kount Therapy Services was established with a primary mission to foster a sense of achievement within each child and to improve the quality of life for those children and their families. Kids Kount Therapy Services recognizes and respects the uniqueness of every child. We firmly believe that every child deserves
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an opportunity to learn and play with optimal function at home, at school, and across all social settings. Each child is assessed and treated with an individualized program to meet his or her developmental learning needs. Our therapy techniques skillfully weave sensory experiences and practical application into activities of daily living. Children learn to work through challenges in a caring, supportive environment; and we all celebrate their accomplishments. We strive to instill compassion and confidence in each child, and we give each child encouragement to become their own unique self. We provide speech, occupational, and physical therapy for children from birth to 21 years.
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Melanie Waters -Spoken Word Speech Language Services LLC
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(251) 517-0355 www.facebook.com/KidsKountTherapy or www.kidskounttherapy.com
29000 Highway 98 Suite 102C, Daphne, AL At Spoken Word Speech Language Services, evaluation and treatment is available for the following areas: speech sound problems (including childhood apraxia of speech), tongue thrust, poor listening skills, auditory processing disorder, reading difficulties such as dyslexia, social pragmatic deficits, stuttering, late talkers, and communication problems associated with autism. Fast ForWord products and monitoring are also available. Therapy may also be offered at your child’s school or daycare/preschool during morning hours of the school year. For more information call or email our office. (251) 786-8255 www.spokenwordspeech.com
Shelley Scott BS & MSCCC-SLP Speech Pathologist
11125 Pontchartrain Loop , Daphne, AL Certified provider of Fast ForWord, a neuro cognitive computer program. For more information call or email our office. (251) 767-2366
www.scilearn.com
South Baldwin Regional Medical Center
1613 North McKenzie Street, Foley, AL South Baldwin Regional Medical Center’s Outpatient Therapy Center offers a variety of services, including Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy. In most cases, the same therapist provides a patient’s care for the duration of treatment. This provides for continuity of care for the patient and improved communication with the referring physician. Visit our website for information on each division of therapy services. (251) 949-3580
www.southbaldwinrmc.com
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Recreation & Social Bay City Gymnastics ad on page 43
7980 American Way, Daphne, AL Now offering Special Needs field trips! Come and join us to “let loose” and have fun at Bay City Gymnastics. Did you know that gymnastics is the greatest overall body conditioning activity that you can have your child involved in? It develops strength, flexibility, kinesthetic awareness, muscular control, endurance, coordination, agility, speed, balance, courage, grace, posture and poise! Your children will be gaining so many valuable tools while having so much fun! (251) 621-2112 www.bcgagymnastics.com
BlueBird Pediatric Therapy, Inc. Kids Yoga ad on page 24
6312 Piccadilly Square Drive, Suite 3, Mobile, AL Bluebird Therapy offers yoga for children with and without special needs. The yoga class is taught by a pediatric therapist who is yoga certified but also works at Bluebird Therapy and is familiar with the needs of children with and without special needs. Each class will incorporate poses, breathing techniques and purposeful postures to strengthen the body, calm the nervous system, and teach a fun way to exercise. Each class series will be designed to meet the needs of those who are signed up for the class. Sign up ahead of time is required and each class series ranges from a 4-6 week commitment 1x each week. For further information on signing up and on the upcoming dates for yoga classes please email Danielle at bluebirdtherapy@gmail.com. (251) 287-0378 www.bluebirdtherapy.com
The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast ad on page 17
28788 North Main Street, Daphne, AL Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast is a 501 (c) (3) non- profit organization dedicated to enhancing the social, recreational and artistic abilities of the special needs community. EFGC provides daily programs, which include arts & crafts, music, social events and Special Olympics. Our program is available to the special needs individual upon completion of high school. Our hours are Monday and Thursday from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. For more information contact Jennifer Flad, Executive Director at Jennifer.Flad@exceptionalfoundationgc.org. (251) 625-8955
www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org
www.infirmaryhealth.org
Access To Recreation
8 Sandra Court, Newbury Park, CA
www.accesstr.com
Alligator Alley
19500 County Road 71, Summerdale, AL Alligator Alley is ADA compliant. With over 20 acres of natural cypress swampland, our alligators roam freely in a protected environment. The whole family can safely observe alligators feeding, courting, and nesting from our elevated boardwalk. 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. Call for more information or to schedule a tour! www.gatoralleyfarm.com
AMBUCS
750 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope, AL Climbing on a rock wall or playing on a see-saw can be a lot of fun for children but for the pediatric rehab patients at Thomas Hospital, those exercises also offer a fun alternative to traditional Occupational and Physical Therapy. The department’s new playground offers a safe way to help special needs children with their strength, coordination and balance. The playground, funded by the Thomas Hospital Foundation, includes a rock wall, balance beam, monkey bars, over head glider, chin bar, see saw, disc swing and a therapeutic seat swing all on a state-of-the-art cushioned flooring system. (251) 279-1640
(800) 634-4351
(251) 946-BITE (2483)
Thomas Hospital Rehabilitation Playground ad on page 56
Provides exercise and recreational equipment for people with disabilities. Online equipment items such wheelchair accessories, daily living, replacement parts, bath and shower accessories, Lifts, safety equipment, ramps, manual and power chairs, etc.
A charitable service organization dedicated to creating mobility and independence for people with disabilities by providing AmTryke therapeutic tricycles to children with disabilities. (800) 838-1845
www.ambucs.org
Back Country Trail
3801 Orange Beach Boulevard , Orange Beach, FL We are ADA compliant. Explore the beauty and diversity of the Back Country Trail! Six trails among six distinct ecosystems make up more than 11 miles of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail complex through Orange Beach and the Gulf State Park. Explore the Butterfly Garden, the mystical Freshwater Marshes, Coastal Hardwood Swamps and lots of wildlife. For trail maps, pictures, locations please visit the website. (251) 981-1180 www.backcountrytrail.com
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Baldwin County Special Olympics
For more information email Dawn Frenette or visit us on Facebook. (251) 972-6854
Boy Scouts of South Alabama
2587 Government Boulevard, Mobile, AL The Boy Scouts of America is one of the nation’s largest and most prominent values-based youth development organizations. The BSA provides a program for young people that builds character, trains them in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and develops personal fitness. (251) 476-4600
http://www.scouting.org
Camp Bridges
1600 7th Avenue South, (ACC 516), Birmingham, AL Our mission is to provide camps and educational programs at no cost for children, young adults and families residing in Alabama and neighboring states who are living with an organ transplant. We create a fun and educational environment for heart, kidney, liver and lung transplant recipients that encourage positive self image and healthy transplant living. Those served receive and provide peer support and form lasting friendships to better cope with the unique challenges of transplantation. (205) 558-2090
www.campbridges.org
Camp Mash
PO Box 850548, Mobile, AL Camp M.A.S.H. is a weeklong recreational program for children ages 7 to 17 with a form of juvenile arthritis or a related autoimmune disease. Our camp is planned specifically for the needs of our campers in order to empower them to live life to the fullest and to build friendships with others on similar journeys. Camp M.A.S.H. is offered at NO COST to our families. We have activities such as fishing, swimming and the ropes course, as well as horses, archery, and arts & crafts. All activities and accommodations are fully accessible, and
a medical staff team on site around the clock. Camp MASH is open to children living in Alabama, Mississippi, the Florida Panhandle, and on a case-by-case basis other kids from surrounding areas as we have space. (251) 599-5688 www.campmash.org
Camp Smile-a-Mile
Camp Smile-A-Mile’s mission is to provide year round challenging, unforgettable recreational and educational experiences for young cancer patients, their families as well as young adult survivors from Alabama at no cost to the families. Our purpose is to provide these patients, families and survivors with avenues for fellowship, to help them cope with their disease, and to prepare them for life after cancer.
Local programs include safe family-oriented recreation throughout the year.
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(205) 402-0415
www.campsealeharris.org
Annual day of fun activities (September 10 this year!) on the water for kids with special needs and illness’. We offer fishing charters, dolphin cruises, pirate cruises, sailing charters, parasailing, banana boat rides, airboat rides and more.
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Camp Sugar Falls & Camp Seale Harris
Southern Diabetes Education Services camps and local community programs provide needed diabetes education, encouragement, and friendships for children with diabetes and their families. Camp is a place where having diabetes is the norm; where you can compare and share stories with peers; and where you don’t have to explain diabetes all the time because everyone here “gets it.” They understand exactly what it’s like living with diabetes, because they live with diabetes too. Children learn independence in managing blood sugar levels and medication, making healthy food choices, and being physically active. Physicians, nurses, diabetes educators, nutritionists, and pharmacists to provide safe supervision and real time feedback join trained adult volunteer counselors with diabetes. Camps include fun activities that vary by location.
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(850) 438-5555 www.captainsforkids.com
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Center Stage Performance: Fairhope Troupe; Take 2 Show Choir; Center Stage Show Choir
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155 South Section Street, Fairhope, AL Take 2 Show Choir students are 3rd – 6th grade and Center Stage Show Choir students are 7th – 12th grades. They rehearse once a week in Fairhope, and perform at venues, festivals and special events in Bald-
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win County throughout the year, culminating in May with a professional Finale’ concert. Center Stage also offers classes in Voice, Piano, Acting, Backstage Design, and Musical Theatre Dance. For information, visit our website or contact Executive Director, Erin Harris.
(251) 928-1707
www.centerstageperformance.com
Center Stage Performance: Spanish Fort
10424 US Highway 31, Spanish Fort, AL Performance Education after school in a fun environment! Announcing two locations for our musicals: Fairhope and Spanish Fort! Our K-4 thru 3rd graders will be performing “Magic Tree House: The Knight at Dawn KIDS” in December. Our 4th – 12th graders will perform “Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr” for school shows and public performances in December. They rehearse twice a week. For more information, visit our website or contact our Executive Director, Erin Harris. (251) 928-1707
www.centerstageperformance.com
Disabled Sports USA
451 Hungerford Drive, Suite 100 , Rockville, Maryland Disabled Sports USA’s mission is to provide national opportunities for individuals with disabilities to develop independence, confidence, and fitness through participation in community sports, recreation and educational programs. These sports opportunities transform the people we serve, highlighting the potential in each of us, embodied in our motto: “If I can do this, I can do anything!” Each year through our nationwide network, we serve over 60,000 youth, wounded warriors and adults. We offer a nationwide network of over 100 community-based chapters in 37 states with over 30 different sports. For more information email us at info@ dusa.org. (301) 217-0960 www.disabledsportsusa.org
Exceptional Arts Drama by Sunnyside Theater
63 Midtown Park East , Mobile, AL Sunnyside Theater proudly presents Exceptional Arts Drama. Drama and Theater classes for adults and children with special needs ages 8 – 80! Exceptional Arts Drama is committed to providing fun and creative theater opportunities for children and adults with special needs! We adapt roles to give each cast member the chance to showcase their unique talents on stage. Our actors learn how to put on a play, memorize scripts, perform choreography, and role-play during dress up! With Azalea City Center for the Arts, cast members and volunteers work together with the common goal of putting on a great show for our families and friends! Classes are held on Tuesday nights from 6:00 p.m. – 8 p.m. For information call or email Chris Paragone. (251) 510-1808 www.azaleacityarts.com
Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama
Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama, Inc. (GSSA) builds girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. GSSA focuses on activities and lessons that build leadership skills and develop a strong sense of self-worth. It is a safe and encouraging environment that challenges individuals and groups to make a difference in the world and create lasting friendships. For more information on how to become a volunteer or a Girl Scout, please call or email us. (800) 239-6636 or (251) 344-3330 www.girlscoutssa.org
Hope Outdoors
P.O. Box 1421 , Chatom, AL Glenn & Karen Sansing and Roger Hadley - Alabama Chapter Directors. Hope Outdoors has a passion to spread the love of God and provide the fun of the great outdoors to those who may be ill or challenged. We provide opportunities for fishing, deer hunts, bird and turkey hunts, and other ways to get close to nature and enrich lives no matter the challenges life may have given you. We now have chapters in Alabama, Arkansas, Tennessee, 4 chapters in Mississippi and 2 in Missouri. All events are free to participants and their families. Hope Outdoors provides meals, lodging, licenses and will prepare game for travel if needed. Participants are responsible for travel to and from the event. Our Alabama event will be held the 3rd weekend in January 2017. Applications can be found on our website. To find out how you can be a part of Hope Outdoors call or visit our website today. Visit us on Facebook for photos and event updates. (251) 769-0711 or (251) 769-5642 www.hopeoutdoors.org
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Lakeshore Foundation
4000 Ridgeway Drive , Birmingham, AL Lakeshore is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization. Since 1984, Lakeshore has helped advance and promote the impact of positive, long-term physical and emotional effects of physical fitness on people with disabilities. From infants to seniors, to injured soldiers and elitelevel athletes, every participant is free to discover his or her own potential. Our mission is to enable people with a physical disability and chronic health conditions to lead healthy, active and independent lifestyles through physical activity, sports, recreation and research. (205) 313-7400
www.lakeshore.org
SNAP (Special Needs Athletes Programs)
Skyline Lanes, Mobile, AL Our mission is to give developmentally disabled citizens in the greater Mobile, Baldwin County Alabama area, the opportunity to participate in recreational sports with others of the same skill level and to have fun doing it. For more information contact us at joe@ snapofalabama.com. (251) 285-0224
www.snapofalabama.com
Space Camp and Aviation Challenge
One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL Space Camp and Aviation Challenge offer a variety of programs for special needs students. We offer Space Camp and Aviation Challenge programs specifically designed for special needs students, including camps for blind, and/or visually impaired, deaf and/or hard-ofhearing, and a week at the end of summer designated for special needs youth.
cial Olympics in Baldwin County. Visit us on Facebook for news and events. (251) 978-0295
www.gulfshoresstarfish.webs.com
Water Planet Dolphin Therapy
203 Greenwood Drive, Panama City Beach, FL We offer 2 therapy options to interact with the dolphins. The Harmony Program we have found can help a wide variety of children: most spectra of autism, manic depression, Rett Syndrome, Tourette’s Syndrome, ADHD, Down, and hyperactivity. Our Serenity Program caters to children with serious developmental delays, physical and motor disabilities like Cerebral Palsy, Head and Spinal Cord Injury, Mitochondrial Disorder. Spina Bifida, Muscular Dystrophy, Angelman’s Syndrome and other disabilities, which require body work and specialized interventions. (850) 230-6030 www.waterplanetusa.com
Westside Buddy-Ball League
This Division of Babe Ruth Buddy Ball is a program for mentally and physically challenged youth between 5 – 21 years of age in an athletic environment structured to their abilities. Our program strives to teach the community to recognize the abilities of our participants rather than their disabilities. More than the skill of baseball is learned through the experience. The value of the Babe Ruth Buddy Ball is therapeutic and socialization benefits of participating in sports, the strengthening of participants’ self-esteem, the opportunities to mainstream into other divisions of play, and the disciplines of teamwork, sportsmanship and fair play. Young adults, teens and children can volunteer to be a buddy to the participants. (251) 633-9853
www.westsidebaseball.com
(800) 637-7223 or (256) 837-3400 www.spacecamp.com/specialprograms
Sickle Cell
Starfish-Special Olympics Swim Team
Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Mobile Chapter, Inc.
Sharon Brindle, Coach; The Starfish swim team trains handicapped participants to qualify for the State Spe-
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
The Sickle Cell Disease Association of America –
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Mobile Chapter, Inc. (SCDAA-MC) was founded in 1974. A volunteer Board of Directors governs a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. The mission of the Association is to “Empower clients and their families with knowledge, through quality comprehensive programs and services.” For individuals with sickle cell disease: Case management services, Transportation to/from medical appointments, Medical and pharmacy assistance for those without insurance. We provide Career assistance, After School Tutorial Programs (ages 6-18), Summer Enrichment Programs, Client support groups and fun activities. For the general public we offer Sickle cell screenings, lab onsite, Genetic counseling for those who test positive for sickle cell trait, Educational seminars and certification program. All services free. (251) 432-0301 www.scdmobile.org
Spina Bifida Spina Bifida Association of Alabama
The mission of the SBA of AL is to promote the prevention of Spina Bifida and to enhance the lives of all affected. www.sbaofal.org
Tourette Syndrome Tourette Association of America
42-40 Bell Boulevard, (Suite 205) , Bayside, NY Founded in 1972, The Tourette Association of America (formerly known as the Tourette Syndrome Association) has emerged as the premier national non-profit organization working to make life better for all people affected by Tourette and Tic Disorders. (888) 4-TOURET (486-8738) www.tourette.org
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A typical morning in my home begins with the words, “My clothes hurt me. They are too loose. I need new clothes.” As a result, I begin the search for the “right” clothes for my 4-year-old daughter. After much time, many tears, lots of tight hugs, and a good dose of frustration, she begins her day in the same dress she wore the day prior and many days prior to that. The process of getting dressed, which seems simple to most, is the biggest challenge my child faces on a daily basis. This situation is one example of what living with a child with Sensory Processing
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Disorder is like. “Imagine being in an environment where the noise around you is amplified to the highest level, the temperature is the coldest or hottest you have ever felt, you are wearing the most uncomfortable clothing that has ever touched your skin, and you are nauseated by a repulsive smell. All at the same time. What would be your response? Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
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“Most would quickly escape the situation,” says Dana Lyons, Occupational Therapist at Boulder City Hospital. “These are examples of what a child with Sensory Processing Disorder feels, but they cannot escape the symptoms. As a result, these children may respond with anger, frustration, or ultimately avoid situations which may cause a breakdown.” Sensory Processing is a term that refers to the way the nervous system receives messages from the senses and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses. (www.spdfoundation. net). “Everyone processes sensory input, but some people process it differently than others.” says Occupational Therapist, Carrie Grosdidier. “When the processing of this information interferes with our ability to function on a day to day basis is when we have a problem.” Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) can be hard to diagnose because it affects each person differently. “Any of the five senses can be affected by being hypersensitive (overstimulated) or by being hyposensitive (under simulated),” says Lyons. A hypersensitive response to sensory input may include: • Distracted by noises that sound normal to others (flushing toilets, clanking silverware) • Fear of surprise touch or avoid hugs • Avoids swings and playground equipment that others enjoy • Has poor balance, falls often A hyposensitive response to sensory input may include: • A constant need to touch people or textures • An extremely high tolerance to pain • May often harm other children and/or pets when playing, doesn’t understand own strength • Fidgety and unable to sit still, enjoys movement based play such as spinning, jumping, swinging etc. • Seems to be a “thrill seeker” and can be dangerous at times (www.brainbalancenters.com) Children can have one or many of these characteristics as well as some from each category and in varying degrees of severity. “Unfortunately, these responses are viewed by others as children behaving badly when in fact they are not,” Lyons says. “The most important thing to
ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure
THE FACE OF A
CURE
The Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders is committed to finding a cure for Lilianna and the more than 1,500 children who come to us for care each year. As a founding member of the Children’s Oncology Group,* Children’s of Alabama and UAB combine research and innovative therapies to help save the lives of children down the street and around the world. Although the cancer cure rate has risen from 50 to 84 percent in just 20 years and strokes in patients with sickle cell disease have decreased 90 percent through standardized screening processes, we are actively working toward a TOTAL CURE for children like Lilianna. *The Children’s Oncology group is a clinical - translational trials organization with more than 9,000 experts worldwide dedicated to finding better cures and improving the outcomes for all children with cancer.
understand is that children with SPD are not “bad” children. They are simply trying to survive in their own skin, in a world with heightened or lowered sensations. Typical punishment for “bad” behavior is not optimal and can cause regression rather than progression.” Stephanie Beaudry, mom of two children with SPD, says, “When trying to explain my son’s hyperactivity or clumsiness is due to SPD, we get told ‘Oh it’s just his age’ but it’s actually because his nervous system doesn’t respond as it should in certain situations.” SPD may cause motor clumsiness, behavioral problems, anxiety, 69
depression, or other impacts if not treated effectivity. (www.spdfoundation.net) Sensory Processing does create challenges for families, but there is treatment available for kids who struggle with it. “We had a fabulous Occupational Therapist who helped my son. She gave us tools and gave him permission to figure out what worked for him and what didn’t,” says Joy Alsup, mom of four. “He has a high need for tight, long hugs and we understand that this is what helps him. It’s a huge priority for us.” With the help of an Occupational Therapist kids with SPD can find tools
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that help them balance sensory input. Activities may include swinging, wearing a weighted vest, pushing or pulling heavy objects across the room, or jumping on a trampoline. Many of these activities are fun for the child and can be integrated
into playtime at home. (www. sensorysmarts.com) “The therapy helps more than just their physical strengths, but also their emotional strengths,” says Beaudry. “When my daughter first started therapy, she was extremely shy. She wouldn’t even talk to children her own age when they approached her. Now, four months later, she is a social butterfly.” An occupational therapist’s main goal is to educate parents about SPD and give families tools they can use to help the child progress at home. Although families that deal with SPD may have struggles with things other people see as “normal” activities, many parents find hope in their child’s progress and support from other parents dealing with this disorder. “One thing I have learned after experiencing our journey is that I am not alone. There are so many others who understand what I am going through
and we are there to support each other in many ways,” says Beaudry. As a mother of a child with Sensory Processing Disorder myself, I would encourage others to educate themselves about SPD and begin to approach the situation from the child’s perspective. Parents can then begin to use the tools needed to adjust their environment and celebrate as their child meets their goals and overcome challenges. Joy Alsup says, “When my son was diagnosed, I felt like he would be limited in his future. He has worked through many of his issues and I see his SPD as part of what makes him unique. I wouldn’t have him any other way.” It takes a lot of patience, persistence, and love to parent a child with SPD, but when a child feels acceptance and supported, they can work through their struggles, and thrive in school and at home. Sarah Lyons is a wife and mother of six. The inspiration for this article came from her daughter, Grace, who was diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder in 2014. She writes from her home in suburban Kansas City. Originally published in the January 2016 issue of KC Parent Magazine.
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OPEN UNTIL 6PM!
ALSO OPEN THANKSGIVING BREAK, CHRISTMAS BREAK AND SPRING BREAK!
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A Page in a Book Imaginary Reading Reading is at its best when it sparks the imagination. Kids open books with similarly open minds that are primed to discover inspiration. Their minds are ready to craft worlds of their own making, to create landscapes populated with impossible beings and unlikely events. The smallest element found between the pages of a good book can serve as a springboard for daydreams, magical musings, and original thinking that’s the sole creation of a child’s mind. When words and images from a picture book spark a journey of the mind, the highway to imagination is wide open!
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The Wonder
by Faye Hanson (Templar / Candlewick) As a young boy makes his way toward school, he’s repeatedly scolded by others for having his head in the clouds. Moving through a sepia-toned landscape, he tries to focus but flashes of impossible shapes and brilliant color intrude at the corners. Once he’s at school, the boy’s distracted musings brighten up what he’s learning, even while earning him some reproach from teachers. But upon arrival in art class, the boy is offered a blank piece of paper and finally encouraged to ‘use his imagination’. With his mind unfettered, his full technicolor interpretation of his day pours forth with wild abandon. Magnificent, richly detailed illustrations throughout ‘The Wonder’ celebrate the power of imagination to amplify reality with magical results.
Tell Me What to Dream About
by Giselle Potter (Schwartz & Wade) When a little girl has trouble falling asleep she turns to her big sister asking for things to dream about, something to think of while she drifts off. The older sister offers up imaginative cues, crafting settings and characters that should captivate her younger sibling. But the suggestion of tiny animals dancing on waffles is unappetizing to the younger sister. The idea of riding through the sky on cotton candy creatures is also not comforting (heights are scary). But once two minds work together to imagine a dreamscape that works for both, slumber comes easy to sleepy siblings.
GIA SC
The Nowhere Box
by Sam Zuppardi (Candlewick Press) With noisy little brothers following George everywhere, he simply has nowhere to go. If only he can figure out how to get there – to nowhere. But a newly vacated cardboard box gives George the inspiration to craft his own means of escape. With a handful of craft supplies and a head full of imagination, George builds a Nowhere Box that transforms into a rocket ship, a pirate vessel, a castle and more. Fueled by his mind’s musings the box transports him on spectacular journeys and gives him the perfect escape from pesky kid brothers. But his pretend landscapes are missing enemy pirates, dragons and the opposing foils that add drama to any imaginary adventure. Luckily, George has two little guys in mind who just may be the perfect opposition everywhere in Nowhere. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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IT’S A-MAZING
Celebrating Over 12 Years Of Family Fun! Get lost and have fun on a farm! October 1 through November 5 • Monday - Thursday School Field Trips
“THE GULF COAST’S ORIGINAL CORNFIELD MAZE” IN CELEBRATION OF THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF ONE OF EVERYONE’S FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORIES.
PEANUTS WORLDWIDE AND SEWARD FARMS ARE COLLABORATING TO BRING TO YOU,ONE OF THE MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES OF A LIFETIME!
GRAB YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY THIS FALL AND COME CELEBRATE WITH US! OCTOBER 1 - NOVEMBER 5, 2016
GIANT CORN FIELD MAZE • HAY RIDES • WAGON WHEEL CAFÉ • FARM YARD FUN SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS • CORN CANNONS • YEE HAW SLIDE • COW TRAIN RIDES FIRE PITS AND BIRTHDAY HUTS (BY RESERVATION ONLY) HAUNTED HAY RIDE & FIELD OF FRIGHT CALENDAR OF EVENTS - ALL INFORMATION ON OUR WEBSITE OCTOBER 1: “AMERICAN HERO DAY” • OCTOBER 8: PEANUTS MOVIE NIGHT OCTOBER 1, 8 & 15: BAY AREA FOOD BANK DRIVE • OCTOBER 15, 22 & 29: HAUNT NIGHTS OCTOBER 29: TRICK OR TREAT SATURDAY OUR CHARACTER DAY ACTIVITIES NOVEMBER 5: GRANDPARENTS DAY
SATURDAYS 10AM-9PM • 228-641-3936 Find73Us On Facebook • www.sewardfarms.com www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine
Family Calendar Thursday September 1
2016 Campaign Kick Off Luncheon 11:30am - 1:00pm, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US Highway 98, Mobile Join us for our annual Campaign Kick Off Luncheon featuring Siran Stacy. Individual tickets are $35 each. Sponsorships are available. Please call 251.943.2110 or info@unitedway-bc.org for more information on sponsorships and reserved tables. (251) 943-2110 www.unitedway-bc.org
September2016
Display at Dauphin Island Public Beach townofdauphinisland.org
Thursday September 8
Miranda Lambert “Keeper of the Flame” Tour 7:30pm The Wharf Amphitheatre, 23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach www.alwharf.com
Friday September 2
Daphne’s Farmers Market 2:00pm - 6:00pm, 2305 US-98, Daphne (251) 348-7002
First Friday Lawn Party and Tour 4:00pm - 7:00pm, Oakleigh, 350 Oakleigh Place, Mobile The Oakleigh House Museum would like to help our friends and neighbors kick off the weekend with Friday Lawn parties at Oakleigh. We will have food trucks, music, and $5 tours of the museum. Bring your blankets, chairs, ice chests, games etc. (251) 432-1281 www.historicmobile.org Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Free Family Movie Nights on Thursday and Fridays presented by the Town of Dauphin Island and Greer’s Market. Bring chairs, blankets, bug spray just in case. Snack Vendor and restrooms available on site. September 2 movie is Heart of the Sea. townofdauphinisland.org Eastern Shore Kid’s Market 9:00pm - 6:00pm, Fairhope Civic Center, 161 North Section Street, Fairhope Fall/Winter Children’s Consignment Sale easternshorekidsmarket.com
Sunday September 11
Friday September 9
Exceptional Foundation Gulf Coast Golf Tournament 11:00am - 6:00pm, The Lakewood Golf Club, 5910 Lakewood Drive, Fairhope 4th Annual Golf Tournament benefiting the Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast. www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org Daphne’s Farmers Market 2:00pm - 6:00pm, 2305 US-98, Daphne (251) 348-7002
Dash & Splash 5K Fun Run & Pool Party 6:00pm Bay Minette Municipal Pool Complex, 1300 Bradley Avenue, Bay Minette The Firefighters and Volunteers of the Bay Minette Fire Department (BMFD) will be hosting their 3rd Annual Dash & Splash 5k, Fun Run & Pool Party. The 5k will begin at 6:00pm, followed by a one mile Fun Run at 7:00pm and will close with music, food and a pool party at the Bay Minette Municipal Pool Complex. Proceeds from the Annual Dash & Splash will benefit the Bay Minette Fire Department and their Fire Prevention Programs. (251) 580-1617 www.active.com/bay-minette-al/ running/distance-running-races/3rd-annual-dash-andsplash-2016
Eastern Shore Kid’s Market 8:00am - 1:00pm, Fairhope Civic Center, 161 North Section Street, Fairhope Fall/Winter Children’s Consignment Sale easternshorekidsmarket.com
The Black Jacket Symphony presents The Eagles Hotel California 8:00pm Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street, Mobile The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience through recreating classic albums in a live performance setting. The Eagles’ “Hotel California” album is performed in its entirety by a group of handpicked musicians specifically selected for each album, with no sonic detail being overlooked–the musicians do whatever it takes to musically reproduce the album. (251) 208-7261 www.mobilesaenger.com
Sunday September 4
Saturday September 10
Saturday September 3
Dauphin Island Sunset Concert ($5.00 per person
Children 12 and under are free.)
6:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Sunset Concerts presents Heart of the Sea at 6:00pm. Bring chairs, blankets, drinks, snacks and bug spray. Proceeds go to the Little Red Schoolhouse Relocation Fund. townofdauphinisland.org Dauphin Island Labor Day Fireworks 8:45pm Dauphin Island Public Beach, Dauphin Island Town of Dauphin Island presents Labor Day Fireworks
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
Eastern Shore Walk to End Alzheimer’s 9:30am Henry George Park, 3 Beach Road, Fairhope Walk to End Alzheimer’s Eastern Shore will take place at Henry George Park. act.alz.org Captains for Kids A free fun day on the water for kids with special needs and illnesses by providing: fishing charters, sailing excursions, parasailing rides, dolphin cruises and water banana rides. Each event has a maximum seating capacity so pre-registration is required for each person in order to give you a smooth experience and to provide a passenger manifest to the captain. (850) 438-5555 www.captainsforkids.com
18th Annual Chef Challenge ($60 ) 6:00pm - 9:00pm, Alabama Cruise Terminal, 201 South Water Street, Mobile Guests will enjoy tastings of dishes from local chefs and restaurants as Chefs compete to win votes for the night’s best dish. Live entertainment by Roman Street, a vast silent auction, and complimentary beer, wine and spirits are also part of the event. All proceeds from Chef Challenge are used to help those in need within our 24-county service area along the Central Gulf Coast. (251) 653-1617 feedingthegulfcoast.org Eastern Shore Kid’s Market 9:00pm - 6:00pm, Fairhope Civic Center, 161 North Section Street, Fairhope Fall/Winter Children’s Consignment Sale easternshorekidsmarket.com
vard, Dauphin Island Race to benefit Dauphin Island Fire and Rescue. productionsbylittleredhen.com
Brett Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon 6:30am Gulf Shores Public Beach at Hangout, 101 East Beach Boulevard, Gulf Shores www.team-magic.com Commedia del Arte presents “The Importance of Being Earnest” 7:30pm 110 St. James Avenue, Fairhope www.commediadelarte.org Hurricane Run 5K and Fun Run 8:10am Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 102 Bienville Boule-
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Tunnel to Towers 5K 7:30pm USS Alabama Battleship Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile Tunnel to Towers 5K benefitting Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation programs. Race will start at the USS Alabama Battleship Park and finish at Bienville Square in Downtown Mobile. www.crowdrise.com/T2TMobile2016
Wednesday September 14
Kid’s Yoga Class ($5 suggested donation) 4:00 pm, Fairhope Organic School, 8 Marietta Drive, Fairhope The Fairhope Organic School will offer a community Kid’s Yoga Class at 4 p.m., September 14, in the Assembly Hall at the school. The class will be led by Angel Curtin, of Jellyfish Yoga, and parents are welcome to join their children. Donations will be collected ($5 suggested amount) for Weeks Bay Foundation and their work with Alabama Coastal Clean-Up this month. Yoga is a weekly offering at the Fairhope Organic School, where an organic approach to education honors the growth of the whole child—mind, body and spirit. (251) 928-9347 www.FairhopeOrganicSchool.com
Thursday September 15
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun ($50 in advance or for $60 at the door)
5:30pm - 9:00pm, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98, Daphne Wind Creek Casino & Hotel Atmore presents the 10th annual Girls Just Wanna Have Fun benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile on Thursday, September 15th. This “must do” event is an evening for ladies 21 years of age and older complete with heavy hors d’oeuvres from local area chefs and restaurants, McTini’s, and an unforgettable evening of manicures, make-overs, shopping and more! Purse-Onalities will be available at the 2016 Girls Just Wanna Have Fun event - and are sure to be enjoyed by all! Each year, a limited number of purses are available for this event which always creates a ‘shopping frenzy!’ Don’t miss out, purchase your event & Purse-Onality tickets today! (251) 694-6873 rmhcmobile.org/girls-just-wannahave-fun
www.easternshoreparents.com
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Family Calendar United Cerebral Palsy’s Food and Folly 6:30pm - 9:30pm, Fort Whiting, 1630 South Broad Street, Mobile This exciting, Mardi Gras themed event is one of United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile’s annual fundraisers. Support our programs and enjoy music, fun, food, dancing, silent auctions, wine tastings and more! (251) 479-4900
The Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival 6:30pm The Wharf , 23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach The Wharf Uncorked featured demos from renowned chefs, cuisine and wine tasting tents, live and silent auctions benefiting the Make A Wish foundation, wine auctions and sales and more! It’s a fun weekend of wining and dining right here at The Wharf! thewharfuncorked.com
Friday September 16
Daphne’s Farmers Market 2:00pm - 6:00pm, 2305 US-98, Daphne (251) 348-7002
2016 Dragonfly Festival, the 181 Market’s 6th Annual Fall Flea Market (Admission FREE, parking $2.00) 9:00am - 4:00pm, The 181 Market, 16925 State Highway 181, Fairhope Hosted by The Dragonfly Emporium LLC www.181mini.com The Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival The Wharf , 23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach The Wharf Uncorked featured demos from renowned chefs, cuisine and wine tasting tents, live and silent auctions benefiting the Make A Wish foundation, wine auctions and sales and more! It’s a fun weekend of wining and dining right here at The Wharf! thewharfuncorked.com
September2016
Saturday September 17
Fairhope Christian Church (DOC) 120th Anniversary Open House (Free) 10:00am Fairhope Christian Church, 349 Fairwood Boulevard, Fairhope Fairhope Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) will be having its 120th Anniversary Open House with free food, games, period dress and the unveiling of a historical marker. This is event is open to the public. (251) 928-8495
The Wharf Uncorked Food & Wine Festival 4:00pm The Wharf , 23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach The Wharf Uncorked featured demos from renowned chefs, cuisine and wine tasting tents, live and silent auctions benefiting the Make A Wish foundation, wine auctions and sales and more! It’s a fun weekend of wining and dining right here at The Wharf! thewharfuncorked.com Alabama Coastal Cleanup 8:00am - 12:00pm, Alabama Coastal Cleanup seeks volunteers, including boaters, to help pick up trash along Mobile and Baldwin County waterways and coastlines, Saturday, September 17, 8 a.m. - Noon. Choose from 30 participating sites. Learn more at www. alabamacoastalcleanup.com. www.alabamacoastalcleanup.com Jubilee Race for Life - 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run 8:00am Daphne Baptist Church, 1515 6th Street, Daphne Jubilee Race for Life 5K and Fun Run to benefit Bayside Medical Missions. www.eventbrite.com 2016 Dragonfly Festival, the 181 Market’s 6th Annual Fall Flea Market (Admission FREE, parking $2.00)
9:00am - 4:00pm, The 181 Market, 16925 State Highway 181, Fairhope Hosted by The Dragonfly Emporium LLC www.181mini.com Historic Fort Gaines - 1st Annual Massacre Island ($8 for Adults ages 13 and up, 4$ for children ages
5-12, and children ages 4 and under are free!)
9:00am Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island Come and see the Pirates as they pilfer and pillage Isle Dauphine and fight against Spanish and British Galleons. The event will highlight Flintlock Pistol duels, Pirate Tug-O-War, Swashbuckling Sword Play, Cannon Firing, Blacksmithing by Ralph Oalman and period music by the Kracker Dan Band. There will be a treasure hunt for kids ages 12 and under. (251) 861-6992 www.dauphinisland.org
Sunday September 18
2016 Dragonfly Festival, the 181 Market’s 6th Annual Fall Flea Market (Admission FREE, parking $2.00) 9:00am - 4:00pm, The 181 Market, 16925 State Highway 181, Fairhope Hosted by The Dragonfly Emporium LLC www.181mini.com Historic Fort Gaines - 1st Annual Massacre Island ($8 for Adults ages 13 and up, 4$ for children ages
5-12, and children ages 4 and under are free!)
9:00am Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island Come and see the Pirates as they pilfer and pillage Isle Dauphine and fight against Spanish and British Galleons. The event will highlight Flintlock Pistol duels, Pirate Tug-O-War, Swashbuckling Sword Play, Cannon Firing, Blacksmithing by Ralph Oalman and period music by the Kracker Dan Band. There will be a treasure hunt for kids ages 12 and under. (251) 861-6992 www.dauphinisland.org
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Family Calendar
September2016
66th Baldwin County Fair Baldwin County Fairgrounds, 19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale Come join us at the 66th Baldwin County Fair from September 20-24 at the Baldwin County Fairgrounds (19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale). Please visit baldwincofair.com for more information. (251) 947-3247 baldwincofair.com
Thursday September 22
Fairhope Fall Farmer’s Market 3:00pm - 6:00pm, Behind the Fairhope Public Library in downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, Fairhope
Tuesday September 20
66th Baldwin County Fair Baldwin County Fairgrounds, 19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale Come join us at the 66th Baldwin County Fair from September 20-24 at the Baldwin County Fairgrounds (19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale). Please visit baldwincofair.com for more information. (251) 947-3247 baldwincofair.com
Wednesday September 20
Wallace Tunnel Tour ($10 for all HMPS members and $25 for non-members)
9:15am Historic Mobile Preservation Society Campus, 350 Oakleigh Place, Mobile After light refreshments at the Cox-Deasy Cottage, the tunnel tour will leave from the Historic Mobile Preservation Society campus, at 9:45 a.m. and caravan over for the tour. The tour will be led by members of the Alabama Department of Transportation staff and include a visit to the control room and a guided walking tour of the interior of the tunnel. All proceeds will benefit the HMPS’s new youth education program. (251) 432-1281 www.historicmobile.org
(251) 929-1466
11th Annual Health & Wealth Fair 9:00am - 2:00pm, James P. Nix Center, 1 Bayou Drive, Fairhope The fair will feature area businesses from the health and financial fields with informational booths. (251) 928-2835
66th Baldwin County Fair Baldwin County Fairgrounds, 19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale Come join us at the 66th Baldwin County Fair from September 20-24 at the Baldwin County Fairgrounds (19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale). Please visit baldwincofair.com for more information. (251) 947-3247 www.baldwincofair.com
Friday September 23
Vintage Market Days (Early Buying Event (3-Day Pass) $10 on Friday, General Admission (Sat/Sun) $5)
10:00am - 5:00pm, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North, Mobile Vintage Market Days is an upscale vintage-inspired market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more. www.vintagemarketdays.com
Daphne’s Farmers Market 2:00pm - 6:00pm, 2305 US-98, Daphne (251) 348-7002
A Chocolate Affair - Before & After Gallery (Tickets are $10)
6:00pm - 8:00pm, Before and After Gallery, 19 North Church Street, Fairhope A Chocolate Affair to benefit “Shepherds Place” September 23 from 6-8 p.m. Before & After will also donate a percentage of September profits to them at first Friday in October. Purchase tickets for $10 at Before & After prior to event. Taste of the Eastern Shore ($25.00 ) 7:00pm - 9:00pm, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US Highway 98, Daphne Taste of the Eastern Shore to benefit Daphne High School Organizations. Tickets available from the following organizations at Daphne High School: Band, Boy’s Basketball, Girl’s Basketball, Boy’s Golf, Girl’s Golf, Boy’s Soccer, Girl’s Soccer, Cheerleading, Swimming, Choir, Wrestling, or Cross Country. 66th Baldwin County Fair Baldwin County Fairgrounds, 19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale Come join us at the 66th Baldwin County Fair from September 20-24 at the Baldwin County Fairgrounds (19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale). Please visit baldwincofair.com for more information. (251) 947-3247 baldwincofair.com
Saturday September 24
Vintage Market Days (General Admission (Sat/Sun) $5) 10:00am - 5:00pm, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North, Mobile Vintage Market Days is an upscale vintage-inspired market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor,
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251-929-3424 Growing to meet the needs of the Eastern Shore with new specialists joining the practice soon. Eastern Shore Parents I September 12016 IMC_3668_ESAFM__ESP_hlfpg_2016.indd
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outdoor furnishings consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more. www.vintagemarketdays.com National Estuaries Day (Half Price Admission: Adult $5.50; Children (5-18) or Students with ID $3; Seniors $4.50)
10:00am - 3:00pm, Estuarium at Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island To mark National Estuaries Day, the Estuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab will highlight the diversity and importance of Mobile Bay. The Mobile Bay is the fourth largest freshwater flow in the United States. The day includes half price admission, activities for the children and education for all ages. (251) 591-1865 www.disl.org
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Eastern Shore Jubilee Festival 10:00am - 5:00pm, Olde Towne Daphne, Main Street (Scenic 98), Daphne The Jubilee Festival is an Eastern Shore tradition that offers fine art, crafts, great entertainment and great food in Olde Towne Daphne. Kids Art in the Park offers our children the opportunity to enjoy hands-on art projects and games. It’s so exciting to see those faces enjoying a “jubilee” of activities. www.eschamber.com Baldwin County Home Builders Association Parade of Homes 10:00am - 5:00pm, The Baldwin County Home Builders Association Parade of Homes will be held September 24 and 25 and October 1 and 2. Please visit our website for more information. www.bchba.com
Give Us a Call!
Taste of the Bayou 6:00pm - 10:00pm, Bayou La Batre Chamber of Commerce, 12745 Padgett Switch Road, Irvington Sample fabulous food prepared with the freshest ingredients harvested in our own backyard . . . the Gulf of Mexico. (251) 824-4088 www.tasteofthebayou.org Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents Rhapsody in Blue 7:30pm Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street, Mobile Not just blue – but red, white and blue! Our season opens with the most American of all classical hits. You’ll also hear Korngold’s Overture to The Sea Hawk and Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 2. (251) 432-2010 www.mobilesymphony.org Weeks Bay Foundation’s annual Kids Fishing Day 8:00am - 12:00pm, Safe Harbor Pond, 1401 US Highway 98, Fairhope The Weeks Bay Foundation’s annual Kids Fishing Day is a great FREE opportunity for children 15 and younger to cast a line in a safe and fun environment. We stock the Safe Harbor Pond with locally raised catfish and each child can take home up to three fish. Fishing gear and bait will be provided for those children who do not have their own. (251) 990-5004 www.weeksbay.org Fire Prevention 5K and Fun Run 8:00am Meaher State Park - Spanish Fort Causeway, 5200 Battleship Parkway East, Fire Prevention 5K and Fun Run to benefit Spanish Fort Fire Department. www.eventbrite.com 66th Baldwin County Fair Baldwin County Fairgrounds, 19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale Come join us at the 66th Baldwin County Fair from September 20-24 at the Baldwin County Fair-
251-928-2401
341 N. Greeno Road, Fairhope • 1622 Highway 59, Foley www.baysideortho.com grounds (19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale). Please visit baldwincofair.com for more information. (251) 947-3247 baldwincofair.com
enjoy hands-on art projects and games. It’s so exciting to see those faces enjoying a “jubilee” of activities. www.eschamber.com
Sunday September 25
Baldwin County Home Builders Association Parade of Homes 10:00am - 5:00pm, The Baldwin County Home Builders Association Parade of Homes will be held September 24 and 25 and October 1 and 2. Please visit our website for more information. www.bchba.com
Vintage Market Days (General Admission (Sat/Sun) $5) 10:00am - 5:00pm, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North, Mobile Vintage Market Days is an upscale vintage-inspired market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more. vintagemarketdays.com Eastern Shore Jubilee Festival 10:00am - 5:00pm, Olde Towne Daphne, Main Street (Scenic 98), Daphne The Jubilee Festival is an Eastern Shore tradition that offers fine art, crafts, great entertainment and great food in Olde Towne Daphne. Kids Art in the Park offers our children the opportunity to
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Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents Rhapsody in Blue 2:30pm Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street, Mobile Not just blue – but red, white and blue! Our season opens with the most American of all classical hits. You’ll also hear Korngold’s Overture to The Sea Hawk and Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 2. (251) 432-2010 mobilesymphony.org
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Family Calendar Commedia del Arte Presents “The Importance of Being Earnest” ($8 in advance, $10 at the door ) 6:30pm Loxley Civic Center, 4198 Municipal Park Drive, Loxley Commedia del Arte Presents Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” at Loxley Civic Center. A portion of the proceeds benefits the National Federation of the Blind. www.commediadelarte.org Mobile Fashion Week The Steeple at St. Francis, 251 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Fashion Week will be September 25-October 1. Please check our website for more information. (251) 285-CHIC (2442) www.mobfashionweek.com
Monday September 26
Mobile Fashion Week The Steeple at St. Francis, 251 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Fashion Week will be September 25-October 1. Please check our website for more information. (251) 285-CHIC (2442) www.mobfashionweek.com
Tuesday September 27
Mobile Fashion Week The Steeple at St. Francis, 251 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Fashion Week will be September 25-October 1. Please check our website for more information. (251) 285-CHIC (2442) www.mobfashionweek.com
Wednesday September 28
Mobile Fashion Week The Steeple at St. Francis, 251 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Fashion Week will be September 25-October 1. Please check our website for more information. (251) 285-CHIC (2442) www.mobfashionweek.com
Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
September2016
Thursday September 29
Fairhope Fall Farmer’s Market 3:00pm - 6:00pm, Behind the Fairhope Public Library in downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, Fairhope (251) 929-1466
Vintage Affair Gala - American Cancer Society ($125 ) 6:00pm Alabama Cruise Terminal, 201 South Water Street, Mobile The American Cancer Society Vintage Affair Gala, presented by Lexus of Mobile, takes place Thursday, September 29. The Late Night Party (included in ticket) is from 8-11pm on the Terminal Rooftop! Enjoy an evening filled with exquisite cuisine by Clifton Morrissette, fine wines from Red or White and the exciting sounds of the Crowned Jewelz Band! Sure to thrill are the live and silent auctions which include fabulous trips, estate jewelry and original local art featuring artist Ashley Terrell. Experience one of Mobile’s premier philanthropic events as we join together to save lives and party for a cause... even if it takes all night! (251) 344-9858 www.vintageaffairmobile.org
and locally owned establishments in Downtown Mobile the weekend of September 30th, October 1st and 2nd, 2016. We will showcase local, regional, and national bands on two main stages, as well as a kids zone and a local art market, all weekend long. www.tensixtyfive.com Mobile Fashion Week The Steeple at St. Francis, 251 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Fashion Week will be September 25-October 1. Please check our website for more information. (251) 285-CHIC (2442) www.mobfashionweek.com
Saturday October 1
Baldwin County Home Builders Association Parade of Homes 10:00am - 5:00pm, The Baldwin County Home Builders Association Parade of Homes will be held September 24 and 25 and October 1 and 2. Please visit our website for more information. www.bchba.com
Mobile Fashion Week 251 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Fashion Week will be September 25-October 1. Please check our website for more information. (251) 285-CHIC (2442) www.mobfashionweek.com
Honey Bee Festival & 5K Run 8:00am - 4:00pm, Honey Bee Park, 22780 Highway 59 , Robertsdale Honey Bee Festival and a 5K run will be held in Honey Bee Park. Fun vendors and activities. (251) 947-2626 www.centralbaldwin.com
Friday September 30
TenSixtyFive (Free) Downtown Mobile, Mobile TenSixtyFive is a laid back street party celebrating music, local artists and makers, and locally owned establishments in Downtown Mobile the weekend of September 30th, October 1st and 2nd, 2016. We will showcase local, regional, and national bands on two main stages, as well as a kids zone and a local art market, all weekend long. www.tensixtyfive.com
Daphne’s Farmers Market 2:00pm - 6:00pm, 2305 US-98, Daphne (251) 348-7002
TenSixtyFive (Free) Downtown Mobile, Mobile TenSixtyFive is a laid back street party celebrating music, local artists and makers,
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Family Calendar Mobile Fashion Week The Steeple at St. Francis, 251 St. Francis Street, Mobile Mobile Fashion Week will be September 25-October 1. Please check our website for more information. (251) 285-CHIC (2442) www.mobfashionweek.com
Sunday October 2
Baldwin County Home Builders Association Parade of Homes 10:00am - 5:00pm, The Baldwin County Home Builders Association Parade of Homes will be held September 24 and 25 and October 1 and 2. Please visit our website for more information. www.bchba.com
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the dimensions of Andy’s toy box with the help of the green army men; and the spectacular stage debut of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider as they rise into the sky amidst the floating lanterns. With special appearances by Snow White, Tinker Bell and Aladdin’s Genie, you never know what to expect or who might join in the fun. (251) 208-7381 www.mobilecivicctr.com Dauphin Island Sunset Concert ($5.00 ) 5:00pm West End Beach, Dauphin Island Sunset Concert - Roman Street. Bring chairs, blankets, snacks, drinks and bug spray. Admission $5.00 per person children 12 and under free. townofdauphinisland.org TenSixtyFive (Free) Downtown Mobile, Mobile TenSixtyFive is a laid back street party celebrating music, local artists and makers, and locally owned establishments in Downtown Mobile the weekend of September 30th, October 1st and 2nd, 2016. We will showcase local, regional, and national bands on two main stages, as well as a kids zone and a local art market, all weekend long. www.tensixtyfive.com
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September2016
Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic 2 pm and 6 pm Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive, Mobile Join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and the comical duo of Donald and Goofy as 25 of your favorite characters surprise and captivate at every turn of the knob! See the Fairy Godmother transform Cinderella’s rags into a beautiful ball gown in a split second; the Toy Story gang defy
Women’s Business Alliance Women’s Forum 2016 LuLu’s Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Event Center at the Wharf, Join the Women’s Business Alliance for their 2nd Annual WBA Women’s Forum! This Forum includes a Sunday evening networking event hosted by LuLu’s in Gulf Shores. Monday includes 4 speakers, vendor booths, award presentations, with breakfast and lunch provided. www.womensbusinessalliance.org
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Monday October 3
Women’s Business Alliance Women’s Forum 2016 LuLu’s Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Event Center at the Wharf, Join the Women’s Business Alliance for their 2nd Annual WBA Women’s Forum! This Forum includes a Sunday evening networking event hosted by LuLu’s in Gulf Shores. Monday includes 4 speakers, vendor booths, award presentations, with breakfast and lunch provided. www.womensbusinessalliance.org
Wednesday October 5
Alabama Coastal Birdfest The 13th Annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest is October 5-8. Alabama Coastal BirdFest is an annual event with guided trips, speakers, dinners, and free activities on the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast. Trips and evening events require advance registration. Registration opens in early August. Visit www.AlabamaCoastalBirdFest.com to learn more. (251) 625-0814 www.alabamacoastalbirdfest.com
Thursday October 6
Fairhope Fall Farmer’s Market 3:00pm - 6:00pm, Behind the Fairhope Public Library in downtown Fairhope on Bancroft Street, Fairhope (251) 929-1466
7th Annual Think Pink Tea 4:00pm - 6:00pm, Alabama Cruise Terminal, 201 South Water Street, Mobile Join us for a fun celebration of breast cancer survivors during Breast Cancer Awareness Month presented by USA Mitchell Cancer Institute and USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital. The event
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Family Calendar includes a runway fashion show staffed by survivors, family members and caregivers. www.usahealthsystem.com/thinkpinktea Alabama Coastal Birdfest The 13th Annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest is October 5-8. Alabama Coastal BirdFest is an annual event with guided trips, speakers, dinners, and free activities on the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast. Trips and evening events require advance registration. Registration opens in early August. Visit www.AlabamaCoastalBirdFest.com to learn more. (251) 625-0814 www.alabamacoastalbirdfest.com
Friday October 7
Daphne’s Farmers Market 2:00pm - 6:00pm, 2305 US-98, Daphne (251) 348-7002
Theatre 98 presents “Proof” 8:00pm Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope Theatre 98 presents “Proof” by David Auburn Directed by Joe Fuselli Winner of the 2001 Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award for Best Play. (251) 928-4366 www.theatre98.org Alabama Coastal Birdfest The 13th Annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest is October 5-8. Alabama Coastal BirdFest is an annual event with guided trips, speakers, dinners, and free activities on the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast. Trips and evening events require advance registration. Registration opens in early August. Visit www.AlabamaCoastalBirdFest.com to learn more. (251) 625-0814 www.alabamacoastalbirdfest.com
September2016
Saturday October 8
Read Aloud Bay Minette 10:00am - 2:00pm, Bay Minette Public Library, 205 West 2nd Street, Bay Minette Free books, food, arts & crafts, storytellers and celebrity readers. (251) 580-1648
2016 Phantasy of the Arts ($100 ) 6:30pm Fairhope Civic Center, 161 North Section Street, Fairhope Phantasy of the Arts 2016 brings fresh and exciting talent to downtown Fairhope. The internationally acclaimed a cappella group Street Corner Symphony will delight partygoers with its wide range of style. Following the show, join us in the tent for food, music, dancing, and a chance to catch up with friends. (251) 990-FEEF feefonline.org/phantasy-of-the-arts Theatre 98 presents “Proof” 8:00pm Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope Theatre 98 presents “Proof” by David Auburn Directed by Joe Fuselli Winner of the 2001 Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award for Best Play. (251) 928-4366 www.theatre98.org Alabama Coastal Birdfest The 13th Annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest is October 5-8. Alabama Coastal BirdFest is an annual event with guided trips, speakers, dinners, and activities on the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast. Trips and evening events require advance registration. Registration opens in early August. Visit www. AlabamaCoastalBirdFest.com to learn more. (251) 625-0814 www.alabamacoastalbirdfest.com Festival of Flavor Historic Downtown Foley, 112 East Laurel Avenue, Foley The Alabama Festival of Flavor showcases the many flavors of local and regional foods, wine and craft
beer. This food, wine and craft beer event is focused on locally grown and produced products. (877) 461-3712 www.alabamafestivalofflavor.com
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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
Performing for over 1,200 Schools, Libraries & other groups across 15 States!
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Theatre 98 presents “Proof” 2:00pm Theatre 98, 350 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope Theatre 98 presents “Proof” by David Auburn Directed by Joe Fuselli Winner of the 2001 Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award for Best Play. (251) 928-4366 www.theatre98.org
6+ Live Animals / 45+ min Show Starting at $225 / We Come To You!
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Family Calendar 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.eseartcenter.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
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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.
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 251-4602727 or 1-800-489-1886 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 $30 per semester. Call the church office for info at 251-928-0343 or like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/celebrationmopsfairhopeal. Daily Living Skills Group for parents with children on the Spectrum Held the second Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at The Family Center, 27365 Pollard Road, Daphne. Focus is on daily living needs of families and their children, such as: Safety issues; How to have a family dinner out; Ways to assist with transition; How to talk with people
who stare; Your questions, comments and suggestions. Limited childcare slots are available. For more information, please contact Judy Bradshaw: (251) 990-7781. 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 - 251-626-8228. Fairhope MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) We meet 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. every 2nd & 4th Monday (during the school year) at Fairhope United Methodist Church. All mothers of young children are welcome. Email fairhopemops@yahoo.com for how to register. Father Central of Daphne *Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men, $75 giftcard upon completion. Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Call 251-626-1610 to register, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Chill Skills” - Anger Management by appointment. $25 giftcard upon completion. Call 251-626-1610 schedule, The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. *Nurturing Parenting, 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 251-6261610 to register, 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne. MOPS on the Eastern Shore MOPS stands for “Mothers of Preschoolers” - but don’t let that confuse you. MOPS is about meeting the needs of every mom of a child from conception through kindergarten with local groups of moms just like you. 7100
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Family Calendar Spanish Fort Blvd., Spanish Fort. 1st Thursday of the Month (September through May). Dinner & Child Care are provided. 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. http://www.mopsontheeasternshore.shutterfly.com/ Facebook.com/MopsOnTheEasternShore. 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.
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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.
Tango by the Bay ~ Argentine Basic classes are held every Tuesday from 7:30 – 9:30
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. $10. Prepared Childbirth Classes (Once a week for four weeks). Cost: $30 Week 1: Begin the Stages of Labor: The labor and
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Single Mom Ministry Sponsored by Fairhope Avenue Baptist Church, this prayer and support group for single moms is designed to provide a safe and prayerful environment where group members are able to express themselves among others who will listen, care, and lift each other up. Each participant will receive one bag of non-perishable food items each week. Child care will be provided. Light snacks and soft drinks will be served. Meetings are held every Tuesday from 6-7 PM at Fairhope Avenue Baptist Family Life Center, 8717 Fairhope Ave. 251-928-0890. SOS (Survivors of Suicide) This group is for adults who has ever lost a loved one to suicide. If it has been 5 days or 50 years since the loss, this group is here for you. SOS meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of EVERY month from 6:30 to approximately 8:00 p.m. at the Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 S. Section Street, Fairhope. The support group, which has been around since November, 2012, is facilitated by a professional and co-facilitated by two survivors. There are no dues. For more information, please email jlbarber5@ bellsouth.net or call 251-455-6453.
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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Family Calendar 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 9493676 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 information please contact 949-3781. Thomas Hospital offers the following classes: Breastfeeding Class Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Monthly, first 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
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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 Preregistration 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. 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 800-477-1104 for more information. Alateen Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room East Tower meeting room
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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 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 Meetings are held every Thursday night from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 251- 9656264 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 251455-9919 for more information. Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Group Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251626-6337 for more information. 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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Ben-Hur (2016)
Kubo and the Two Strings
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: AViolence: D+ Sexual Content: B+ Language: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated Ben-Hur (2016) PG-13 for sequences of violence and disturbing images. The 2016 version of Ben-Hur begins with adopted siblings horsing around while displaying their brotherly love and sense of competition. This familial bond is extraordinary because Judah Ben-Hur (Jack Huston) is a rich Jew and Messala Severus (Toby Kebbell) is a poor Roman (taken in as an orphan by the benevolent Ben-Hurs), during a time when the Empire is exerting its might over the residents of its occupied territories. The differences between their ethnicity, religion and social status becomes a problem when Messala’s attraction to Judah’s sister Tirzah (Sofia Black-D’Elia) meets with disapproval from the pair’s mother (Ayelet Zurer). Determined to prove himself worthy as a suitor and a man, Messala enlists with the legion. But when he returns to Jerusalem three years later, he is a different person. Hardened by warfare (which is depicted in some gory detail) and now loyal to the Roman leader Pontius Pilate (Pilou Asbæk), Messala tries to use his childhood connections to root out local rebels and improve his military career. When his ambition conflicts with Judah’s pacifist ideals, friends turn into enemies, and the Ben-Hur family is punished as a warning to other decenters. Judah is sentenced to life as a galley slave and chained in the bottom of a ship that is fighting Rome’s wars at sea. As he endures abuse and bloody battles, he too becomes a bitter soul. Then a strange twist of fate gives him the opportunity to seek revenge for the wrongs he and his loved ones have experienced. That path eventually leads to a showdown between Judah and Massala in a no-holds-barred chariot race. Those familiar with the 1959 epic will recognize many of the same plot elements in this production. Where the portrayals really vary is in their emphasis on redemption. Jack Huston’s character appears to undergo a more convincing change of heart as he wrestles with his angry feelings towards his oppressors in general, and his adopted brother in particular. This is demonstrated as he is put in situations where he must choose how he will react – with kindness or brutality, with fear or faith. As well, Jesus (played here by Rodrigo Santoro) has a greater presence in this script and shares brief words about how the shackles of hatred can only be unlocked with love. It is interesting to note how the Old and New Testaments are continuing to inspire storytellers. Perhaps one day the Good Book’s messages of hope and peace will also be practiced, and not just preached.
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: C+ Sexual Content: ALanguage: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Kubo and the Two Strings PG for thematic elements, scary images, action and peril. “If you must blink, do it now. Pay careful attention to everything you see – no matter how unusual it may seem. If you look away, even for an instant, then our hero will surely perish.” Thus states the opening narration of Kubo and the Two Strings. And it is good advice. Although I’m not entirely sure the hero will perish, I can assure you that anything short of total concentration will kill any hopes the viewer may have of following this abstract and metaphorical plotline. Kubo (voice of Art Parkinson) is a youngster living with his widowed mother (voice of Charlize Theron) in a secluded cave. It is a secure place for her, because her mind wanders. And she claims it is a good hiding spot for him because her evil father (voice of Ralph Fiennes) and sisters (voiced by Rooney Mara) are trying to find the boy and steal his one remaining eye. According to her wild tale, where she calls the villain The Moon King, in order to be safe Kubo must never be out after dark. Whether true or not, her paranoia provides great inspiration for the stories Kubo tells in the local village, where the amused townsfolk toss him a few coins. His impressive act includes playing a guitar-like instrument (a tree-stringed shamisen) that magically brings some origami figures to life. These paper characters act out the adventures Kubo describes. But this simple life comes to an end the night he delays his return to his rocky home until after the moon has come out. Within moments, two terrifying female figures appear and try to capture Kubo and return him to his powerful grandfather. Only an act of magic is able to postpone the immediate danger, but it also sets him on a perilous quest to find three pieces of armor. To protect and guide him, he has been given a talking monkey as a companion. Along the way the pair encounters a human-faced beetle (voice of Matthew McConaughey) with delusions of once being a Samurai warrior. This often-silly, six-armed soldier insists on joining them. As you can imagine, things get pretty bizarre as the trio battles a large skeleton, gets hypnotized by giant eyeballs, and faces off against a dragon/ snake-like creature. Injuries and deaths result. Yet these difficult circumstances provide the characters with an opportunity to talk about the importance of love and family, beliefs about life after death, and the purpose of sorrow during mortality. These deep topics, as well as the visuals that accompany them, will be confusing for little ones at best, and just plain scary at worst. That’s why I’d suggest leaving this challenge for those teens and adults who enjoy trying to puzzle a plot together, and are content even if they can’t place all of the pieces.
What Parents need to know about Ben-Hur...
Violence: Bows and arrows, swords, spears, knives and catapults are used as weapons in large battles and local fights. Characters are shot with arrows, flogged with whips, covered in burning tar, manhandled, imprisoned and forced into slavery. Many of these atrocities are depicted with some blood and detail. Galley slaves are chained to their boat, beaten by their masters and crushed, burned and drowned during a sea battle. Ships ram one another until they are broken into pieces. Competitors and some innocent spectators at a chariot race are smashed against walls, thrown from their vehicles and run over by horses. Deaths and bloody injuries result. Horses also suffer injury and death. Many gory or drowned corpses are seen. Characters are crucified and their bruised and broken bodies are shown hanging on crosses. Sexual Content: Couples embrace and kiss. A married couple is shown in bed together (his shoulders are bare). A woman’s dress is torn during a scuffle with soldiers and her back is exposed. Several male characters are covered only by loin cloths. Selling sex for money is implied. Language: Terms of deity are infrequently used as expletives. Alcohol/Drug Use: Wine is drunk in social settings and for celebrations. Eastern Shore Parents I September 2016
What Parents need to know about Kubo and the Two Strings... Violence: Characters engage in battles and fights with various weapons, including arrows, swords, chains and hooks. Some wounds, blood and scars are shown. A character has a missing eye (he wears an eyepatch) and is being hunted by family members who want to take away his other one. Origami figures fight with one another, and paper limbs are cut off. Discussions occur about the death of a parent who was killed protecting his family. Other family members are portrayed as evil and murderous. Scary characters and frightening/bizarre creatures are depicted. Injuries and deaths are implied. Sexual Content: A woman tucks lint into her cleavage. Language: None noted. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. 84
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ALABAMA’S HIGH SCHOOL Change your life forever! Find out how the Alabama School of Math and Science can lead you on a path to success. ASMS is our state’s only fully public, residential high school for highly motivated sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in math, science, and the humanities.
Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. In 2016, the 72 ASMS grads earned $11.5 million in meritbased scholarships with an ACT composite class average of 29.0.
Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Start your online application in September at www.asms.net.
Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.3250.
Alabama School of Mathematics and Science 1255 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36604 251.441.2100 - www.asms.net admissions@asms.net
Embracing, Loving,  and Caring for  all children.
Katrina Skinner, M.D. • Kelly Green, M.D. Marina Thompson, M.D. • Katie Erdlitz, CRNP
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