Mobile Bay Parents December 2015 by KeepSharing

Jenny has always dreamed of becoming a rock star...

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

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December2015 6

Volume 5 Number 7

Columns 4

Mom of the Month 6

Living With Children John Rosemond

Dinner with a Picky Eater

John Rosemond offers three approaches to end supper-time battles around the table.

Parenting the Challenging Child

Sanity-saving advice and solutions for concerned parents.

Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

RSV Season - It’s That Time of Year Even though it took a while, cooler weather has set in. While we can all look forward to lower electric bills and getting out winter clothes, this time of year brings its own set of challenges for parents to be aware of. One of the most dangerous is RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus. RSV is a virus that can cause respiratory infections in nearly anyone, but it is typically much more severe in younger children. In fact, 60% of children will have an RSV infection in the first year of life. The virus is spread by direct contact, meaning it can stay on hands, toys, and countertops for up to 5 hours, making it very contagious. Bronchiolitis – an infection of the smaller airways in the lung – is commonly caused by RSV, and it is usually only seen in children younger than 2 years old. On exam in a child with bronchiolitis, the lungs will sounds crackly – almost like Velcro separating – and wheezes, or high-pitched whistling noises, can be present as well. While other viruses can cause bronchiolitis, the progress of the infection gives a clue to the culprit. If it is caused by another virus, the infection will be at its worst within 2 days of being sick; if RSV is the cause, there is usually a 4-5 day period of runny nose, irritability, cough, and possibly fever followed by a progression to true bronchiolitis, indicated by a worsening

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

cough, possible wheezing, and faster and deeper breathing. While there is unfortunately no medicine to treat RSV directly, most children infected with RSV can be treated at home. However, this may require multiple visits to your physician during the 10-14 day course of illness, and occasionally severe cases may even call for hospitalization for dehydration and problems breathing. Caring for a baby with RSV can be very demanding as it usually requires frequent suctioning of the nose, especially before eating and sleeping, and extra efforts to keep your little one hydrated. Sometimes humidifiers and Vicks VapoRub can help alleviate some of the respiratory symptoms, and if there is wheezing due to the bronchiolitis, albuterol (a medicine given via a nebulizer) often provides some relief. Premature infants and those with weakened immune systems or heart or lung problems are at higher risk of being hospitalized with RSV and for having secondary complications such as ear infections and pneumonia, which could be life-threatening inn some cases. For this reason, there is a monthly RSV preventative injection that the very high-risk children receive during RSV season. Several companies are currently researching other ways to prevent RSV infections in infants, but at the moment old-fashioned hand wash-

ing and extra cleaning of toys, clothes, and countertops are the best bet for keeping your little ones safe during RSV season. Having a child with RSV can be a scary and fast-moving process and is often exhausting for both parents and children, but typically there are only 2-3 days of the more severe symptoms. A cough may linger for a week after everything else seems to be better. In total this illness usually lasts 10-14 days. Every child’s infection is different, so do not hesitate to call your doctor with any concerns or questions. Repeat visits may be required as the illness runs its course, but that is normal. Between those visits, the most important thing you can do at home is to keep your baby comfortable and well hydrated. That is the best way to ensure that your little one is back to his happy self in no time. Jennifer Adair, M.D., was born and raised in Mobile. She graduated from Davidson High School in 2002 and received her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at The University of Alabama in 2006. She completed her medical training at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine, and pediatric residency at the University of Nevada College of Medicine – Las Vegas and the University of South Alabama. She joined Children’s Medical Group in July 2013 and currently practices at their Airport office. Jennifer and her husband, Cory, reside in Mobile with their dogs, Fitz and Barkley.

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Autauga County Schools Theodore HS Choral Students Perform Live with Lynn Mackie

Recently, a few Theodore High choral students had the opportunity to represent the chorus department at Lynn Mackie Live in Concert. Matthew Slade sang several solo parts. These students along with students county wide auditioned to be part of this experience. THS is so proud of these students and their amazing talent. Pictured are Mackenzie Portella, Victoria Dodd, Lynn Mackie, Ms. Lindquist, Bailey Davis and Matthew Slade.

Little Flower Vikings Wear Pink

Most opponents of the Little Flower Vikings soccer teams see red on the field as the Mighty Vikings dribble and score. But the fifth/sixth grade soccer team added pink socks to their team colors in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Week. The team is grateful to their coach, Jacob Smith, for his guidance and great coaching.

Dining in the Streets with Prichard Prep

Prichard Preparatory School’s Ensemble entertained guests dining at PPS’s 2nd Annual “Dining in the Street” event. The Ensemble, under the direction of Andre Millsap, sang for diners at Café 615, The Bull, OK Bicycle Shop, Moe’s Barbecue, T. P. Crockmier’s, Loda Bier Garden and The Noble South.

Hollinger’s Island Students Learn About Bullyblocker

Hollinger's Island Elementary School students learned about all about bullying and the Bullyblocker program when they were visited by Ann Sirmon from the District Attorney's office. Pictured are our third grade students learning strategies to deal with bullying problems at school.

Covenant Christian School Musical Group Visits Homestead Village

The musical group, J 1:7, from Covenant Christian School enjoyed entertaining the residents of Homestead Village in Fairhope! After a dynamic performance, including violin, fiddle, mandolin and vocal, the students were able to visit with the residents. Pictured are Camille Tims, Kayla Prieto, Meg Hannan and Abbe Wentland. Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

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Taylor-White Character Kids for October

Taylor-White proudly recognizes these Timberwolves as the Character Kids for the month of October. They have displayed the 6 pillars of character to their teachers and fellow students. We are very proud of their efforts to be a great example to others. Front Row: Peyton Pomeroy, Grayson Holloway, Lauren Nguyen, Nora Jackson, Christopher Wyatt, Weston Warr, and Braiden Cottrell. Middle Row: Jackson Odom, Abbey Wolfe, Brooke McGugin, Maddey Wolfe, Chris Long, and Cade Ikner. Last Row: Bubba Guesnard, Natalie Duncan, Jack Blackerby, and Ashlynn Marcantel.

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Knollwood Christian School Cheerleaders Support Breast Cancer Walk

The KCS cheerleaders were proud supporters at the Breast Cancer Walk. Pictured front L-R: Brooke Kaoui, Sophia Darrough, MaryJane McAdams, Naima Quinsey, Logan Peasant, Chloe Delmore, Emma Maguire, Emilee Scarbrough, and Taylor Bell. Back L-R: Kylie Thompson, Laura Maguire, Kayla Collins, Korinda Seale, Madison Eidt, and Cameron Kennamer.

Give your child the advantages of Faith. n SACS Accredited / AISA Blue Ribbon School

n College Preparatory and Advanced Placement Classes n Dual Enrollment Classes through the University of Alabama n Accelerated Reader Program n High School and Elementary Computer Labs n Award Winning Band, Choral and Drama Programs n Competitive Sports for Boys and Girls Grades 3–12 n 65% of 2015 Graduates received college scholarships

Educating Students in Grades K3 - 12th Something incredible happens when students experience Faith. They begin to grow and blossom into caring, responsible individuals. They begin to see a future filled with promise; they believe in themselves, in others and in their future.

At Faith Academy, we do this by providing a Christian education that meets the needs of the whole student—spiritual, artistic, athletic, social, and personal— in a safe, clean, and orderly environment that encourages excellence.

We accept Alabama Opportunity Scholarship Funds.

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Autauga County Schools St. Ignatius Students Participate in Backpack Ministry

Backpack Ministry is a program that St. Ignatius Parish started last year. St. Ignatius Catholic School has taken on this project to help supply food for the backpacks each week. The Backpack Ministry is a program that provides weekend food for families of students who attend ER Dickson Elementary School. The school has identified 50 families who need help feeding their families over the weekend. Those children pick up a backpack full of food at school on Friday and return the backpack on Monday. St. Ignatius school students help supply food for the program by donating and they help pack the backpacks to be delivered each week. This project has a huge impact on the families in our community. Pictured here are 6th grade students left to right: Tripp Miles, Will Taylor, Sarah Beth Bexley, Eldon Porter, Samantha Cochran and Julia White.

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Ceramics at Mary G. Montgomery

Mr. Polizzi’s ceramics’ students are creating magnificent works of art thanks to the purchase of a kiln. This purchase was made possible through a grant the City of Semmes awarded the MGM fine arts department. Since the addition of pottery and sculpture two years ago, this class has become MGM’s most popular art elective. The rigor of the class is very high, and the focus of pottery and sculpture is not slanted toward crafts but toward producing Fine Art with emphasis on both form and technique. Our students exhibit their work locally and statewide.

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Nan Gray Davis…50 Years of Excellence in Theodore Community

On October 26, 2015, Nan Gray Davis Elementary celebrated 50 years of excellence in education and community involvement. Carrying on the example set forth by Ms. Nan Gray Davis, students, community leaders, and educators all gathered to honor her legacy. A special thank you to Mr. Vince Emmons and Ms. Joyce Peters for sharing their personal stories about Ms. Nan. Ms. Margaret Wilcox, on behalf of her daughter Margie Wilcox, presented a proclamation to the school declaring it Nan Gray Davis Day. Guests also enjoyed hearing the Theodore High School Band and the Nan Gray Davis school choir. Thank you to all the community members who were involved in making this day possible. Pictured from left to right: Dr. Lynda Carroll, Mrs. Mai – Davis principal, Mrs. Martha Peek, and Dr. William Foster.

McDavid-Jones Student Recognized for Perfect Attendance

On October 26, Arkema hosted the annual Award Day for students at McDavid-Jones. Students were recognized for A/AB Honor Roll, Most Improved and Perfect Attendance. Students were given tickets to redeem for snacks. Students are also recognized for meeting their Accelerated Reader Goal. Matthew Rowell, a student in Ms. Byrd’s fourth grade classroom, had Perfect Attendance for first quarter. Second Quarter Awards will be held January 14th. Pictured Bruce Weaver, Purchasing, Arkema, Jill Dickinson, Principal, Connie Krist, Assistant Principal, Matthew Rowell, Teresa Rowell, Judy Smith, Human Resources, Arkema and Tina Alexander, Attendance Officer, MCPSS.

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Autauga County Schools

Corpus Christi Catholic School Student Leadership Committee

The Student Leadership Committee at Corpus Christi Catholic School is made up of qualified representatives from grades 5 through 8 who are elected by their class. The committee provides the students with an opportunity to begin learning some of the principles of leadership, to exercise or experience self-government, and to participate in service projects. This year’s SLC members are pictured, front row, L to R: Anna Watson, Lauren Fadalla, Mandy Menton, and James Conner Overstreet; back row, L to R, Jack Heller, Maggie Picicci, Nina Poiroux, Rachel Brooks, Anna Wentworth and Grace Aguirre.

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S McGill-Toolen Catholic Hosts Literary Magazine Workshop

Mrs. Carter and Mrs. Fontenot welcomed Ms. Connie Nolan, the literary magazine teacher from Pelham High School, into their class today to lead an Alabama Scholastic Press Association workshop for the Ingenium staff on creation, design, and production of literary magazines. Ms. Nolan's enthusiasm and expertise was inspiring! The McT Ingenium staff are hard at work on this year's edition and Ms. Nolan provided great insight for an even better 2015-2016 issue.

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Outstanding Scholar-Athlete

Kelsey Hornsby is recognized as Outstanding Scholar-Athlete. Kelsey was named School Winner for the prestigious Wendy’s® High School Heisman® Award which highlights exceptional high school seniors and their achievements in the classroom, on the field and in the community. Kelsey will move on for consideration in the next stage of the program where she could be named a State Finalist. Congratulations Kelsey!

Please email School News and Photos to Lynn@ mobilebayparents.com by the 7th of the month.

St. Paul’s Service Leadership Volunteers at Bit and Spur Animal Hospital

Members of St. Paul’s Service Leadership class Emmalie Cottrell, Madeliene Thames, Taylor Hooper, Betsy Lyle, Brantley Oldenburg, Boo Krause, Claire Denton, Callie Moss, Noah Finan, Carolyn Chambliss, Will Daniel, Kakki Knott, Elizabeth Jeffries, Addison Metcalfe, Kiley Spann, Spencer Shields, Viktoria Boening and Kate Sullins Canfield helped out with a blood drive at Bit and Spur Animal Hospital on Friday, Oct. 9th. Donors were rewarded with a free dog bath! The group played with and walked dogs, dressed up as a drop of blood, and held signs encouraging passersby to come donate. Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

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St. Ignatius Toy Bowl Court

The St. Ignatius Toy Bowl Court is represented by 40 young teens who raised over $15,000 for CYO sports. The court was represented at the Toy Bowl banquet on November 11 and presented on November 14 at Lipscomb Stadium with the entire CYO Toy Bowl Court. St. Ignatius is extremely proud of these young people for their dedication and support of CYO sports. Pictured back row leftright: Charles Mayhall, Reid Watkins, Wells Keaton, Charles Bridges, Barrett Emerson, Franklin Fesenmeier, James Bond, George Burch, Drew Roberts, Hallet Green, and Paul Comberrel. 2nd Row: Adel Key, Meg Gordon, Janie Schulz, Parissa Davoud, Eleanor Green, Alice Carey, Margaret Ann Stuardi, Isabelle Glass, Ava Eways, Ellie Garstecki, Rose Nicholas. 3rd Row: Chase Picard, Ben Wilber, Murphy Douglas, Logan Shirah, B Thames, Parker Thornton, Price Brown, Thomas Jackson, Wesley Cooke. Front Row: Ann Louise Ortega, Anna Bailey Baggett, Kristina Doyle, Whitsett Herring, Sarah Wallace, Mackenzie Byrd, Hally Lee, Carol Odom, Caroline Kercher.

St. Mary Football Team Plays in Toy Bowl Classic St. Mary Catholic Senior football players defeated St. Ignatius at The Lip in a 32-8 victory for a season win for the Mighty Mustangs. This win put St. Mary as the team to play against the Toy Bowl All-Stars in the 68th annual Toy Bowl Classic on November 14. Pictured are the St. Mary Catholic Mustang football players and cheerleaders.

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Autauga County Schools

St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Homecoming Court

St. Luke's Homecoming 2015 was a week full of festivities that included themed out-of-uniform days, spirit challenges, a K412th grade pep-rally, and Homecoming Festival as well as the Homecoming football game and the announcement of the Homecoming Court and Queen. Pictured are the members of the 2015 Homecoming Court: Freshman Lauren Bailey, sophomore Katie DeArmon, junior Allison Lowe, senior Claire Sweeney, Queen Senior Martha Ellen Phillips, senior Alex Vallas, junior Kamryn Stewart, sophomore Bailey Sheffield and freshman Bailey Fisher.

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St. Mary Catholic Mustang Stampede and Fall Festival!

St. Mary Catholic held its first ever, Mustang Stampede 5K and Fun Run and brought back the St. Mary Fall Festival on Sunday, November 8. Despite a rainy morning, runners took off through the oak tree lined streets in St. Mary Parish on a peaceful Sunday morning. The festival included a chili cook-off, fall market vendors and children's games for all ages. The event was organized by parent Thomas Sasser and The St. Mary Catholic PTO.

Happy Holidays From All of Us to You

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Arnold School Holds Fundraiser for Childhood Cancer

During the month of October, The Arnold School held a fundraiser for the No One Fights Alone-Cure for Childhood Cancer Campaign. During this campaign, they sold hotdogs, desserts, and wristbands. The students raised $1,000. All of the proceeds will go to CUREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Open Arms Meal Program, which helps the children and families that are affected by childhood cancer. The students were excited about the money raised, and all the children they helped. Pictured left to right: Camille Hunt, Lily Delaney and Julianne Zoghby.

St. Pius X Spreads Christmas Cheer

St. Pius X students have been participating in the A Box of Joy Christmas Program to brighten the Christmas season for many children. The program provides a shoe box-sized gift box for children in third world countries. The boxes, though small, contain toys, school supplies and basic essentials for the children. Pictured here are the members of the SGA loading filled boxes to be delivered for shipping.

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Autauga County Schools

CHCA Volleyball “Love Team”

The Lady Warrior volleyball team competed in the Elite Eight State Tournament in Birmingham in late October! CHCA has played in the Elite Eight every year since joining AHSAA in 2008. This was the 8th straight appearance for the Lady Warriors. The Warriors have several young players who stepped up and contributed in a big way. The seniors showed tremendous leadership and offered encouragement that helped spur the team on to success. The team’s motto was “Love Team”. They challenged each other to love the team more than themselves – to put the success of the team over personal accomplishments. They not only succeeded as a team throughout the year but grew as athletes and inspiring young ladies. Chloe’ Wentland was recently named Azalea City Kiwanis Play of the Week and Krista England, Chloe’ Wentland and Callie Jones have been selected to the 1A-4A All-County Volleyball Team.

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Revelation Christian School Super Readers Earn Limousine Ride

The students at Revelation Christian School that met their Accelerated Reader goal for the month of October had a lunch outing with their Principal, Patrice A. Casher. These students met their individualized point goals and maintained an 85% average. The students were transported by limousine, compliments of Small's Mortuary and they had a wonderful time!

LMS Cheerleaders Volunteer at Ronald McDonald House

The Lott Middle School Cheerleaders volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House in Mobile on Saturday, October 17. The Ronald McDonald House is a home for families that have a child receiving care at USA Women's and Children's Hospital and the family lives too far away to be able to go home and return as needed. The cheerleaders prepared a dinner consisting of fried and baked chicken, baked macaroni and cheese, green beans, dinner rolls, and cookies for the families. While there the girls were also taken on a tour of the home. The cheerleader sponsor, Mrs. Harrison is planning on the cheerleaders participating in a volunteer service project each quarter in the future.

Little Flower Students Tour Cathedral

The sixth grade class from Little Flower Catholic School attended the Mass for Consecrated Religious at the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in downtown Mobile. Also in attendance were men and women religious who serve the Archdiocese of Mobile. After the Mass, Archbishop Rodi spoke to the students about listening to what God is calling them to be. The students were treated to a tour of the Cathedral and the crypt, which is the burial place of a number of deceased bishops. One of the students commented, "You can really tell this is a holy place." Their teacher, Miss Mumford, had the students pose for a picture in the center aisle of the Cathedral. Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

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St. Paul’s Episcopal School’s Third Grade Spends a Service Day at Recycle Center

St. Paul’s Episcopal School’s entire third grade participated in an educational service day at the new Mobile County Recycle Center on Friday, October 2nd. The students rotated by class through four stations. Each group had classroom time with Mrs. Phyllis Wingard, outreach coordinator for Keep Mobile Beautiful, where they learned about waterways, recycling, and trash issues in Mobile. They also enjoyed a tour of the facility where they learned about sorting recycling and saw the glass, can, paper, and plastic crushers. Another activity was making a poster about recycling to hang around the school campus. Finally, all students worked on a coloring book about being good stewards of the environment. Third grade teachers Amy Strickland, Susan Curtis, Laura Brand, Stacy Hack, and Mary Allison Potts joined chaperones Susan Newby, Scott McDonald, Brian Thomas, Elizabeth Gregory, Susan Brochu, Leslie Lerner, and Laura McGee to lead the classes through their activities.

UMS-Wright Students Perform at Alabama Music Educators Music Festival

Eight students from the UMS-Wright Lower School Chorus were selected to attend the Alabama Music Educators Elementary Music Festival at Samford University in Birmingham. The festival consisted of two choirs of 200 students each from all over the state of Alabama. On the final day of the festival, the students presented their concert for family, friends, and guests from the Birmingham community. The students pictured are: Rowen McMahan, Gwen Cunningham, Virginia Ashbee, JaeAnna Gaston, Harrigan Weston, Nicholas Cooper, Virginia Ladd, and Bailey Washington.

Read for the Record at E. R. Dickson Elementary School

The students, teachers, and faculty at E. R. Dickson Elementary School participated in the annual Jumpstart Read for the Record event on October 22. The school celebrated literacy in a big way by coming together with millions of other students across the country to break the record for reading the same book on the same day. This extraordinary day began with a spirited assembly including a special read aloud of the book, “Not Norman” by Maire Nakada, the 2015 Distinguished Young Women of America. Next, Ms. Carole Hegwood led the E. R. Dickson Choir in a lively song about reading and engaged the entire school in a sing along. The atmosphere was enhanced because each teacher and staff member dressed as their favorite story book character. The school’s principal, Mrs. Kinn, charged all students and teachers to have a fabulous day filled with reading and interactive reading activities. Students were then surprised by a video that Mrs. LiCalsi made using the blue screen taking students and teachers around the world and even into space reading. Visitors from all around the community and our Partners in Education came to classrooms for read-alouds and literacy activities. This was a day of literacy celebration that we will all remember!

Saraland Seniors Teach Elementary Students about Constitution

The senior members of the Saraland High School Student Council traveled to Saraland Elementary School on Constitution Day to teach students about our government and Constitution. These “teachers for the day” dressed in Colonial attire and performed a skit, showing how excited the members of the colonies were to finally have a U. S. Constitution. There was also a President, a Supreme Court Justice, and a Congressman to explain the three branches of our government. The Student Council members also divided the children into small groups and taught them the meaning of the vocabulary used in the Preamble. The senior members who did such a great job with this project were Molly Whitlock, Holly Stringfellow, Avery Ryan, Gracie Copeland, Caroline Massey, Brian Dixon, Claire Copeland, Darby Nicholas, Sloan Shelton, Jordan Hall, Brianna Burrell, and Russ Taylor. The faculty advisors for the SHS Student Council are Mrs. Tracey Edge and Mrs. Emily Malone. 25

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Autauga County Schools

St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Robotics Team Finishes 3rd In Game Day

The St. Luke's Robotics Team finished 3rd overall in the 2015 Jubilee BEST Robotics Game Day held at the Mitchell Center on October 24th and has qualified to compete at the South's BEST Regional Championship at Auburn on December 5th and 6th. Forty teams competed in this year's Game Day and St. Luke's won a total of eight awards including BEST Teacher of the Year! Mrs. Angie Dixon, a member of the school's Middle and Upper School Science Department and a Robotics Team Mentor won this award based on the recommendation submitted by the St. Luke's team. Congratulations to Mrs. Dixon and all of the members, mentors and sponsors of the 2015 Robotics Team. The other awards were: Airbus Innovation Award, BEST Programing and Simulation Award, 1st Place Engineering Notebook Award, 2nd Place Spirit and Sportsmanship Award, 2nd Place Exhibit Booth and Interview Award, and 3rd Place Marketing Presentation Award.

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McT Students Paint the Cannon After Murphy Win!

Seniors headed to the cannon following the 35-28 Victory to paint it orange - the rivalry between McT and Murphy is one of the oldest in the state.

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St. Ignatius Mad Scientists

St. Ignatius school 1st graders Hannah Nguyen and Abigail Clark are having a fun time in the Science Lab for the Halloween Mad Scientist Day. The entire 1st grade class got to rotate to different science experiments for a fun fill day before Halloween. The Science Lab provides a wonderful place for experiments and a great place to make a mess. Each class PreK 3-8th grade use the Science Lab for interesting experiments throughout the year.

Corpus Christi Students Named King and Queen of CYO Toy Bowl

Congratulations to the 8th grade members of the Corpus Christi Catholic School CYO Toy Bowl Court! With their hard work and the support of our students, they raised $21,287.20. Because of the amount CCS raised, the King and Queen of the 2015 CYO Toy Bowl are CCS students Katrina Espinosa and Vincent Pham! Queen Katrina and King Vincent will reign over Toy Bowl activities. We are so proud of our students.

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Autauga County Schools

Semmes Cafeteria Staff Recreates “Wizard of Oz”

Semmes Middle School Cafeteria Staff, led by Anita Byrd, pulled out all the stops this Halloween season. They came dressed as the ENTIRE cast of the “Wizard of Oz”, and had the entire cafeteria decked out. The students were thrilled to enter the cafeteria and watch the movie as they ate. It takes a spirited group to add so much fun to a middle school campus, and we are so lucky to have them at SMS!

Bright Beginnings Academy Students Meet Mayor

The students of Bright Beginnings Academy experienced signing of legislation firsthand, as they witnessed Mayor Sandy Stimpson sign The Dyslexia Proclamation on October 20, 2015, during the city council meeting. The proclamation declared the month of October as Dyslexia Awareness month. Thank you Mayor Sandy for taking a brief moment for a photo opportunity with our 1 in 5! We appreciate you so much and your continued support!

Saraland National Honor Society Gives Back By Serving Others

The National Honor Society at Saraland High School commemorated September 11th by delivering goodie bags and handwritten personal “thank you” notes to the First Responders in the City of Saraland. This was just a small token of appreciation for all these men and women do to keep our city safe every day. On September 26th, this organization participated in the St. Jude Walk to end childhood cancer. They will also be sponsoring a Tacky Holiday Sweater/Outfit Jeans Day on December 4th to benefit this important cause. For breast cancer awareness during the month of October, the NHS members participated in the SHS Media Center’s Third Annual Pink-A-Pumpkin Contest. The NHS members also donated treat bags for Halloween to the patients at USA’s Women and Children’s Hospital. The bags were filled with coloring books, crayons, games, and small toys so the patients and their parents could enjoy the holiday. We are proud of the impact the National Honor Society is making in our community.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 7th of the month. Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

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Knollwood Christian School 2015-2016 SGA

The Knollwood Christian School Student Government Association for the 20152016 school year is as follows: Front row: Emma Sheffield, Anna Ellison, Madison Mety, Michael Trinh, and Paris Johnson. Back row: Rachael Smith, Emma Hataway, Michael Roberson, Emma Johnson, Tess Bodiford, and Amber Brown. Congratulations to all of our members!

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Musical Fractions at Hollinger’s Island

Shannon Weaver’s 5th graders at Hollinger’s Island Elementary moved their tables to the corners of the classroom and took their group work to the floor. The class discussed the meaning of the notes and then the groups had to complete each task card. The students were very excited to work together in completing their fraction equations!

UMS-Wright Theatre Guild Presents “Hurricane Smith and the Garden of the Golden Monkey”

On October 18th and 19th, the UMS-Wright Theatre Guild presented “Hurricane Smith and the Garden of the Golden Monkey”. The cast, crew, props, and back drops were outstanding! Congratulations to the Arts Department, Mrs. Delaney, and the entire crew/cast on a job well done - Christian Mason, Ava Ringhoffer, Emma Grace Ottolino, Jordan McClinton, Sam Springer, Ethan Nix, Kaitlyn Read, John Van Derwood, Catharine Dukes, Grant White, Taylor Allen, Abby Cunningham, Hanna Fridriksson, Jack Roush, Mariah Langan, Madison McGilberry, Ashleigh Neese, Maura Crook, Lana Stringer, Rob Wingate, Russell Goodloe, Katie Pappas, Leland Moore, Sam McPhillips, Mattie March, Rachel Stewart, Scooter Burmeister, Sophie Goodwin, Sophia Palacio, Emma Samson, Katie Morris, Constantine Catranis, Joe Horn, Monica Langan, Preston Alford, Nicholas Catranis, Samantha Michlowitz, Hudson Barnett, Sarah Crawford, Patrick Monson, Gavin Barker, Annagrace Curtis, and Riley Michlowitz. A special thank you to Iberia Bank for sponsoring the production.

NASA Speaker Visits Semmes Middle School

Mr. Kepner from the Marshall Space Flight Center at NASA came to Semmes Middle School to speak with Ms. Golemon and Ms. Tonder’s Project Lead the Way (PLTW) classes about career opportunities with NASA. The students were extremely engaged and asked tons of questions. They were over the moon with excitement about the pictures he showed them, the stories he told, and the career opportunities they learned about. Mr. Kepner only came to three schools in Alabama to do this fantastic presentation. He chose Semmes Middle as one of the three because of its PLTW program, and the fantastic teachers who teach it. PLTW is a hands-on, projects-based pre-engineering curriculum that prepares students for a variety of STEM careers.

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Autauga CountyInterns Schools with MCI Staff Oncologist ASMS Senior

Matthew Kang is interning with Dr. Thomas W. Butler, senior staff medical oncologist and associate professor of interdisciplinary oncology at the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. Kang’s mother, who is a recent breast cancer survivor, inspired him to learn more about cancer research and oncology. “While my mom was battling cancer, I went with her to appointments at MCI,” says Kang, a senior at Alabama School of Math and Science who is from Mobile. “Through my mom, I met Dr. Butler, and we talked about ASMS and my interest in becoming a doctor one day. He invited me to shadow him as a research assistant.” This past summer, Kang volunteered 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at MCI. During the school year, Kang has continued to work at MCI as part of the ASMS internship program, receiving free transportation and academic credit. “During the summer, I conducted a research investigation on the correlation between patients’ distress and symptom burden level,” says Kang, who grew up in Mobile. “In early spring 2016, I’ll have my work published in an international academic journal.” “We hope that this experience has allowed Matthew to see where his future can go,” Dr. Butler says. “He is brilliant, and his research could possibly be presented at an international conference held in Australia this summer. That’s pretty impressive.” Through this experience, Kang found that he really enjoys the clinical aspect of medicine. “I have been allowed to sit in during doctor/patient examinations, and when I see patients sicker than my mom was, I feel the same compassion that I had for her,” Kang says. “I’ve been able to see more and more patients; I help diagnose them, receive unforgettable clinical experience, and make a difference in people’s lives.” “Life has a new perspective. I want to make a difference in people’s lives and being an oncologist’s research assistant has given me that opportunity.” Kang wants to attend Yale University or Washington University to study oncology or cardiology.

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Mary G. Montgomery Offers Dual Enrollment Courses

Students at Mary G. Montgomery High School now have the opportunity to take Dual Enrollment Geology through the University of South Alabama. This is the first year this course has been offered at MGM, and over 100 students have already signed up. Students are excited to learn how to identify common rocks and minerals, construct and interpret geological maps, understand major Earth Science theories and processes, and identify and describe major Earth resources. Successful completion of this course provides students with a Physical Geology Lecture and Laboratory (GY 111 and GY111L) credit at the University of South Alabama which can be used for any required science elective, a science elective requirement in the College of Civil Engineering, or the required geology credit for students majoring in geology. Special thanks to the following for making this opportunity possible: Mr. Christopher Lynch (Department of Enrollment Services) and Dr. Sytske Kimball (Department of Earth Sciences Chair) at the University of South Alabama, Mrs. Toni Worsham (MCPSS High School Curriculum Coordinator) and Mrs. Stephanie LeGrone (MCPSS Science Supervisor), and Mr. James Gill (MGM Principal) and Dr. John Morrow (MGM Teacher). In addition to Dual Enrollment Geology, MGM students may also take Dual Enrollment Health through a partnership with the University of South Alabama, and Dual Enrollment History through a partnership with Bishop State Community College. MGM is very proud and excited to offer its students these college credit opportunities and hopes to increase the number of dual enrollment courses offered in order to ensure that students are college and career ready.

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Autauga County Schools

Allentown Elementary School GATOR Kids for October

Kindergarten â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2nd Grade Front Row-Jaylon Hughes, Charlie Robison, Easton Hubbard, Jacob Shireman, Nehemiah Johnson. Middle Row-Omari Spencer, Ayden Phillips, Melody McLean, Brooklyn Courchesne, Madelyn Powell, Cherish Allen, Yadiel Orollano, Baylee Alexander. Back Row-Gracie Wilson, Mallorey Davis, Presley Willis, David Williams, Douglas Dunnam , Dalton Landon, Cody Reed. 3rd â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5th Grade Front Row-Zach Conklin, Erica Barker, Anaiah

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Knight, Jaylen Phillips, Aiden Morrow, Madison Robbins. Middle Row-Justin Freind, Noah Mixon, McKayla Lee, Yacine Gueye, James Addison, Aiden McCain. Back Row-Jacob Morris, Anna King, Ashanti Davis, Jared Reyes, Patrick Quarles, Dustin Hardee.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 7th of the month.

Future Yellow Jackets Visit McGill-Toolen Catholic for Preview Day

8th grade students in our partner schools visited the campus to spend the day with our student ambassadors and get a glimpse into life as a Yellow Jacket. They began their day with Praise and Worship in the gym with Campus Minister Trey Krause, followed by a tour and classroom visits. The day wrapped up with a pep rally and pizza lunch.

Cottage Hill Second Graders Celebrate Colonial Day

Second graders at Cottage Hill Christian Academy are whizzes on Colonial America. After learning about the life in the early Colonies, important historical figures, Colonial activities and daily life students researched and shared more about a colonial career. Each student made a poster, dressed in Colonial outfits and taught their classmates about a particular Colonial career. Colonial Day was celebrated as a culmination of a study of Colonial times in America. Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

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St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health Science Students Spend Day at U. of South AL In preparation for their Senior Capstone Project, St. Luke's Biomedical Health Science Program third year students spent an entire day on the University of South Alabama campus. The students conducted journal research in the Biomedical Library, attended a research lecture with Dr. Debra Swanzy from the College of Nursing and participated in a simulation lab with Dr. Allison Rudd. Students also toured the College of Medicine with Associate Dean Dr. Susan Ledoux, the Occupational Therapy Department with Dr. Donna Wooster and the Physical Therapy Department with Dr. Jeremy Fletcher. In addition students heard from research scientist Dr. Mark Taylor.

Over 350 Runners Participate in Impala Gallop

The Impala Gallop is a certified 2-mile fun run in Spring Hill benefiting the Impala Gala. Over 350 runners participated in the run this year. Leading the pack was Fr. Daniel Owuor who won the race with Denison Crocker and Drew Roberts coming in just behind him. He is pictured here with Brooks Roberts and Eldon Porter (Iggy). Fr. Daniel represented his home country of Kenya while he ran.

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Autauga County Schools ASMS Students Work to Find Cure for Pancreatic Cancer

Alabama School of Math and Science (ASMS) senior Amanda Peterson and junior Anna Wright are working to find a cure for pancreatic cancer at their internship with Professor and Chair of the University of South Alabama Chemistry Department Dr. David Forbes. “This internship has given me a hands-on experience and an insight on what a real job in chemistry would be like,” says Wright, who is from Greenville, Ala. “I think this will definitely impact my future because I have learned so much in just a short amount of time.” Peterson and Wright are running experiments equivalent to a college sophomore honors organic chemistry class. “Our overall goal is to find a potent, yet selective inhibitor of the enzyme PP4, which is pancreatic cancer,” Peterson says. “We are learning how to purify organic compounds and run reactions with the products to form molecules that we are hoping will inhibit the enzyme. It is exciting because we are not only receiving a valuable learning experience in a chemistry lab, but we are trying to cure pancreatic cancer.” “It’s so surreal to be a part of this,” Wright says. “I get to run reactions and TLCs and work in an actual lab. This internship has taken the things I have learned in the classroom and puts them to the test. This is probably one of the best experiences I’ve ever had.” Wright says this internship has given her a strong interest in the field of chemistry. Peterson plans to study chemistry at Tulane University or Birmingham-Southern College. “I would not have had this opportunity without the help of ASMS,” Peterson says. “I knew that the school would enrich my learning opportunities, but when I came in as a sophomore, I didn’t imagine that I would be working in a college lab trying to find a cure for pancreatic cancer. I didn’t even know that I wanted to do something like this until I was offered an opportunity to do it. If a student is willing to actively explore their interests, they should definitely apply for the internship program when the opportunity presents itself again.” “The two students have been a tremendous help in our lab,” Dr. Forbes says. “I am very thankful to have them by my side during this process.”

St. Mary Catholic Toy Bowl Court

St. Mary Catholic presents the members of the court for the 68th Annual Toy Bowl Classic held on November 14 at Lipscomb Field: Court members include: Mary Vivian Ferniany and Rip Repoll; Eden Blackmon and Lee Corbett; Lauryn Smith and Thomas Gaillard; Jillian Bentley and Pace Townsend; Maggie Dolan and Thomas Repoll; Gracie Jones and Robert Favret; Macy Mathers and Christopher Snetsinger; Zoe Tanz and William Sayler; Sadie Kate Polk and Owen Kilpatrick; Adele Baucom and Benny Vereen; Andi Russell and Mason Goleman; Anna Naman and Connell Heinz; and Emily Salter and Gabriel Sosnowski.

St. Paul’s Alumni Give Back to School

On October 27, the Alumni Council presented over $12,000 to St. Paul’s Episcopal School student groups. The student groups receiving funding from the Alumni Council completed applications and gave five minute presentations explaining their requests to the Alumni Council Disbursement Committee. Some of the groups receiving funding this year are: • Youth Judicial Club travel to competitions • Robotics Club equipment • Art Club Sculpture project on campus • Theatrics Club competition fees • 2016 Strings Performance Tour in Europe • Yoga ball chairs for the lower school science lab • Community Service Hunger Matters The Alumni Council hosts fundraising events throughout the year in order to provide additional support for St. Paul’s. Some of these events include the annual golf and tennis tournaments, Artfest and more. Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

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Allentown ES Students Create Banners for Be Drug-Free Parade

The students at Allentown Elementary School recently held a Be Drug-Free Parade during Red Ribbon Week. Grade levels were given a character word to incorporate into their banner. Each class designed their own banner to encourage others to be Drug-Free. Triston Anderson, Madeline Hartley, Brycen Conner,

Madelyn Powell, David Johnson & Caleb Joiner display their class banners from the Kindergarten, First and Second grade. Showing off their class banners from Third, Fourth and Fifth grade are Shayla Miller, Hayden Sullivan, Kinsley Orr, Tristen Reed, Breleigh Rawlins and Summer Taylor.

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Corpus Christi Catholic School Holds Red Ribbon Run

Corpus Christi Catholic School held a “Red Ribbon Run” on Thursday, October 29th. The run was part of the school’s celebration of Red Ribbon Week that is sponsored by the Drug Education Council. This year's theme was "Respect Yourself. Be Drug Free.™ Dr. O at Compass Urgent Care donated t-shirts for all of the students to wear during the run.

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Great Things on the Horizon for Saraland HS Concert Choir

The Saraland High School Concert Choir has been selected to perform at the Candlelight Processional in Epcot Center on December 2, 2015. People from around the world attend the Candlelight Processional performances where the rich sounds of the full orchestra and choir fill the theatre with holiday songs of hope and joy. The choir had to go through an audition process in order to be selected. The students are currently in the process of learning and memorizing the 15 songs they will perform in three different languages—English, French, and German. The celebrity guest narrator on the night the SHS choir performs will be Neil Patrick Harris. Saraland High School junior Hannah Love was selected to participate in the AllNational Honor Choir which performed a gala concert in October on the world-famous Grand Old Opry House stage. Hannah was the only student from the state of Alabama chosen for this honor. This is a prestigious honor ensemble and program of the National Association for Music Education (NAFME). Of the most elite high school musicians who were accepted to their district or All-State music ensembles, 673 of them from 49 states and territories were selected. Congratulations Hannah on such an amazing honor!

Thanks for the Pizza Fr. Savoie!

St. Pius X pastor treated all the students of St. Pius X School to a pizza lunch on Friday, November 6. Fr. Savoie is pictured passing out pizza to students along with Principal Lauren Alvarez and Fr. Mateusz Rudzik. 35

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Autauga County Schools

ASMS Class of 2015 Holds Highest ACT Average in School’s History

The ACT averages by section for the Alabama School of Math and Science class of 2015 are as follows: English (30.9), Math (28.3), Reading (31.3), and Science Reasoning (29.2). Because of the school’s advanced curriculum is math, science, and the humanities, ASMS students typically raise their ACT scores by 4-6 points, or more, before they graduate. A high ACT score dramatically increases a student’s chance of attracting college scholarship offerings. In 2015, the 83 ASMS grads earned $12 million in merit-based scholarships. “Our students are offered several opportunities that help prepare them for the ACT,” ASMS Director of Student Services Apryle Willliams says. “ASMS has offered an ‘ACT Prep’ class to students for three years. I would also like to highlight our counselors and teachers who work together to make sure students are taking the classes they need, which in turn provides the knowledge and opportunities that students need to best prepare them for the ACT, college, and their futures.” ASMS is our state’s only fully public and residential high school for sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in math, science, and the humanities. Tuition, room, and board are free. “ASMS is a special place where talented students have the opportunities and the support to develop their full potential as future leaders,” ASMS President Dr. Monica Motley says. “The accomplishment of the ASMS class of 2015 is just one example of the great things our scholars have done at ASMS. Congratulations to everyone!”

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True to our Episcopal tradition, St. Paul’s School is grounded in Christian beliefs, while welcoming and serving students of all religious backgrounds. The common denominator? Kids who want to do, and be, their best. (And a faculty 100 percent committed to supporting and loving them.) If you’d like to learn more about St. Paul’s, give us a call – or visit www.stpaulsmobile.net.

Know What Matters. 161 Dogwood Lane | Mobile, Alabama 36608 | 251-342-6700 | stpaulsmobile.net

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

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Revelation Christian School Celebrates Reading On Friday, October 30, the students at Revelation Christian School celebrated reading with a Book Character Parade. The students were allowed to attend school dressed as their favorite book character. It was enjoyed by all!

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UMS-Wright Baby Bulldogs

The UMS-Wright Baby Bulldogs took the field to perform during the pre-game show of the football game against Satsuma. The Baby Bulldogs cheerleading squad consists of K4-2nd graders. The program begins in August when the girls participate in a clinic led by the Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Middle School cheerleaders to prep for their annual performances. The girls show their school spirit and support our athletes by performing during two varsity football games, one varsity basketball game, and by marching in the homecoming parade. Once again, the Baby Bulldogs stole the show and did a fabulous job! 37

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Launching a Child’s Journey to the Stars

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

The final frontier is in the news with the successful missions of the Mars lander, SpaceX and the New Horizons spacecraft fly-by of Pluto. Our children can look up into the heavens and see the International Space Station crossing the sky as a tiny bright dot. The people who envisioned and executed these amazing missions and projects were children once, too. It only takes a bit of inspiration in youth to turn a child’s vision toward the marvels of outer space, toward the goal of taking a role in its future exploration. The following toys are ideal for cultivating a child’s interest in the stars, our solar system and the discoveries that await as we continue to stride into the endless expanse of outer space.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Science Club Moonscope

Animals in the Stars Lacing Cards

(Nancy B)

There’s more to the moon than meets the naked eye and the Nancy B’s Science Club Moonscope is a perfect tool to take the first look a bit deeper. With real glass optics and adjustable magnification capacity that can reach 90x, kids can explore not only the surface of the moon, but also observe features of other objects in our solar system. Learning to navigate the night sky is easy with the Sky Gazer’s Journal which helps first time observers find their way around the heavens. The scope includes a gentle red LED light for using the companion journal and sky maps without ruining the viewers night vision. Perfect for fostering a pre-teen’s interest in the mysteries of the night sky, the Moonscope and Journal offers an eye-opening door to knowledge for budding astronomers!

(Rogge/Smith)

Before pointing a child’s attention skyward in the search for constellations, introducing Ursa Minor and more ancient star patterns through the Animals in the Stars Lacing Cards will help prepare them to understand how constellations are perceived. In addition to building fine motor skills for little hands, each card offers a bit of history and mythology behind its constellation. Once the stars on the cards are connected by the laces, a glow-in-the-dark image of the constellation will emerge around it in the dark, helping kids make the connection between the actual star arrangement and the imagined animal it represents. Animals in the Stars is a great teaching tool for children joining the centuries-long parade of sky gazers who have looked up and let their imaginations soar.

Discovery Space Center

Space Mission 28-Piece Playset

(Hape)

Crafted with wood and child-safe paints, rope-cranked elevators and lots of movable pieces, the Center is none-the-less very easy to assemble in minutes. Designed with a eye toward play, the set is less scientific and more geared toward generating kindergarten age storytelling. The hallmark of this play set is the creative pretend scenarios children can craft within the space center setting. Without batteries, noise makers and lights, this playset gives all the power to the child to make his own narrative for the characters in the space program. Including soft pose-able astronauts, an alien, and featuring a detachable shuttle for away missions, the Hape Discovery Space Center is a fun launch for top flight space play!

(Daron)

The road to space has been a long one with magnificent achievements along the way. The range of vehicles and programs represented in this one 28-piece set make it a fantastic introduction to man’s journey into the final frontier. With rockets, command modules, rovers and a range of transport vehicles, the history of space exploration is covered from lift off to lunar landings. Along the lines of matchbox cars, some of the vehicles in the set are die-cast metal, while others are plastic and rubber. While the models are not near to scale rockets would normally far outsize the vehicles, and the space stations are smaller than they would be in comparison – this lack of scale is strongly offset by the strength of the variety included in the Space Mission 28-piece Playset.

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

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

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Q. My wife and I are thinking about selling our home. I was recently let go from the military due to downsizing, and I’ve begun a job in real estate but things are starting slowly. My wife brings home about $3,500 a month as a teacher, and the only debt we have is our house payment of $1,616 a month. I was given a $35,000 severance package, but we need some advice to help bridge the financial gap. A.

Having little or no income is a lot harder than a variable income situation. Your wife is bringing home good money, but at the moment your house payment is almost half that amount. Are there some things you can do on the side while you’re getting your real estate business going that will create income? If you could make even $1,000 to $2,000 a month it would change the picture entirely. You guys would be able to keep your home and have a little breathing room while you get your real estate career off the ground. Looking at it from a long-term perspective, if you’re selling a bunch of houses a year or two from now, you’re in the clear. You could easily stay in the house. But if you don’t find extra income while you build your business, if you’re not willing to work extra hard and sacrifice in the meantime — even if it means just delivering pizzas — then you probably need to sell the house. It takes about six to nine months to start making a living in the residential real estate business. So look at it this way: the more houses you sell, the less time you spend delivering pizzas. All this really hinges on is how badly you want a career in real estate and how much you guys want to keep your home. If you want it enough, you’ll do what it takes to get there. And for the time being, that’s going

to mean supplementing your income with something on the side while you grow your real estate business! Q. We’ve made an offer on a house we really like through a first-time buyers program. Now, after looking over our budget and debts again, my wife and I are having second thoughts. We haven’t signed or turned in any paperwork yet. What do you think we should do?

A. I wouldn’t go through with the deal. I advise people to be debt-free before buying a home, because you want a home to be a blessing, not a curse.

Homeownership when you’re broke is never a good idea. And basically, that’s the situation you’re describing. You have debt, and you’re trying to squeak into something with a firsttime buyers plan. The translation? You have no money. Everything that can go wrong will go wrong. That’s Murphy’s Law, and he’ll move into your spare bedroom along with his three cousins — Broke, Desperate and Stupid. Get your debts paid off, build up an emergency fund, and save up a good down payment before buying a home. I know that’s not the popular answer, but it’s the smart one!

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Th If you are parenting a behaviorally challenged child—one who is highly inflexible, defiant, and in trouble much of the time—then you may be all too familiar with the confusion, anger, guilt, and shame that go with the territory. Challenging kids make life significantly more difficult for their families, teachers, and others with whom they interact. They are often poor problem solvers with rigid interpersonal styles. They may have meltdowns and explosive episodes a few times a week or dozens of times daily. But there is help—and hope. Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

Snapshot of the Challenging Child Because of the variety of symptoms and severity, challenging kids may receive a diagnosis of Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, Conduct Disorder, ObsessiveCompulsive Disorder, or others. Challenging kids may get in trouble for non-compliance at home, school, or both. They have difficulty following instructions, switching gears, getting along with others, and responding appropriately to a variety of social situations. They have outbursts and may swear, hit, spit, throw things, or assault others. Parents of challenging kids often feel stuck and desperate when the use of rewards and punishment is ineffective, especially given that such strategy is often prescribed and is at times effective with less-challenging children. Challenging kids may embarrass their parents with noncompliance so much that they become convinced their child ENJOYS being hostile and mean! 40

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What Causes the Outbursts?

Too often, parents mistakenly blame themselves for their child’s misbehavior. Blame may also come from well-meaning friends or school personnel who believe their parenting is not strict or consistent enough. But parenting techniques are only one factor impacting children’s behavior. Author of Lost at School (Scribner, 2008) and The Explosive Child (Harper, 2010), Harvard Medical School instructor and pediatric psychologist Dr. Russ Greene writes, “Challenging behavior occurs when the demands of the environment exceed a kid’s capacity to respond adaptively. In other words, it takes two to tango.” In When Your Kids Push Your Buttons (Grand Central Publishing, 2004) parent educator Bonnie Harris explains, “Children feel under attack from negative judgments and criticisms and are often left with no choice but to engage in counterattack.” Though on the surface challenging kids may appear to be attention-seeking, manipulative, limit-testing, and poorly motivated, this may not be the case! Children often harbor unsolved cognitive problems which they lack the skills to solve on their own. Experts who work extensively with defiant children and families insist that challenging kids do NOT enjoy tormenting or offending people. Harris states, “Children want to be successful. No child is happy being manipulative or out of control.” These kids frequently have trouble reading social cues and use aggression and defiance for selfpreservation.

The Importance of Empathy

Being responsive and showing empathy is critical to managing challenging behavior. Dr. Greene asserts that when parents show empathy and teach skills for adaptive behavior, behavior improves. On Greene’s Lives in the Balance site, he teaches the definition of good treatment which is “being responsive to the hand you’ve been dealt” and is NOT “treating every kid exactly the same.” Philip and Nancy Hall, who wrote Parenting a Defiant Child (AMACOM, 2007) believe parents need to display empathy and “the know-how to help their children develop and sustain meaningful relationships.” In Confident Parents, Remarkable Kids (Adams Media, 2008) Harris explains that parents’ expectations of their child must be based on who he is, not on who they wish he would be.

She writes “To affect their behavior, their internal state must first be understood, then accepted, then addressed.”

Help for Families

Because of varying philosophies and approaches to helping challenging kids, parents should educate themselves to choose experts and solutions which offer a good fit. A fairly new approach is Greene’s Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) which involves three parts: learning about your child’s perspective, clarifying your own concerns, and brainstorming solutions. The role of parents is to figure out what is getting in their child’s way of not doing well. Greene stresses that solutions to behavior problems take great effort, bravery, and practice. But since CPS eliminates any power struggle, the outcome is win-win. To learn more about CPS visit http://www.livesinthebalance.org/what-iscollaborative-problem-solving-cps. Harris also endorses a collaborative approach with kids who push your buttons, and her excellent tips for coping include: 1) When emotions are heated, stop dangerous actions only. Do not react. 2) Never try to teach a lesson or solve a problem in the heat of the moment. 3) Walk away if you think you will yell, blame, or shame. 4) Count to ten. 5) Inhale and exhale deeply at least three times. 6) Find a word or phrase to repeat to yourself that will hold you back from reacting even for a second. 7) Remind yourself that your child is having a problem not being a problem. 8) If your emotions are high, acknowledge that you are having a problem as well. Own it. 9) Don’t make your child responsible for your feelings or reactions. 10) Don’t take it personally. Do be a sounding board. 11) Appeal to your child’s sense of fairness and logic. 12) Remember, this too will pass. Because challenging and defiant children come in all shapes and sizes, there is not a one-size-fits-all treatment or prescription. An important first step even if you are struggling to define the problem is to seek help, stay positive, and cling to hope. MBP Michele Ranard has a husband, two children, and a master’s in counseling. Visit her at hellolovelychild. blogspot.com.

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When Google Won’t Do... Searching is a basic skill that every adult—and child—needs to master. Everything you might want to know--and some things that are pretty dubious—can be found online, but you have to be able to locate what you need when you need it. Google, of course, dominates the field so completely that googling is synonymous with searching. That dominance worries some people, including the FTC, whose staffers prepared an internal report about how Google search favors Google services over services provided by competitors. Google also depends upon a proprietary algorithm-- set of rules about searching. Google shares some of what it is doing behind the scenes on its own website. (Search for “how search works” on the Google website.) Still, critics point out that there are inevitably assumptions and biases into the search process. Some of these assumptions work to the advantage of parents. You really don’t want adult material to show up even if your child searches for an innocent word that has a double meaning. On the other hand, Google also makes assumptions about what information is reliable based in part on how often other sites link to it. This can make popular sites seem more reputable than they really are. Google is also vulnerable to Search Engine Optimization, an entire industry built around trying to get material from clients to show up on the first page of a Google search. People who use SEO are skilled with keywords, metatags and other identifiers that Google uses to decide which of all the millions of websites will be most relevant to you after a specific search. Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

Finally, Google customizes search results based on what you’ve searched for in the past. That means there’s nothing “objective” about Google results. You and your neighbor can search for the same term but come up with different results if previous searches show that you have different opinions and preferences. None of this means that families should abandon Google or the many websites where search is powered by Google. At the same time, it’s good to be aware of alternatives that may be preferable under specific circumstances. When children are young. Elementary age children who are just beginning to search are likely to be confused and overwhelmed by what they find on Google. Kidclicks.org produces a limited number of results, vetted by librarians. Each item is ranked by reading level, so it’s easier to pinpoint the material that will be useful to a child who is trying to master the intricacies of tornados or dinosaurs. When you want a simple answer. If you have a child who asks a lot of questions, you need to know about Ask.com. The search engine was designed to respond to “natural language”, so you can type in a question like “Why is the sky blue?” and you’ll get quick, authoritative answers. When you want a different spin. The Bing.com search engine, designed by Microsoft, uses its own proprietary algorithms so the results are a little different. Comparing the harvest on Bing and Google can be illuminating, especially for controversial topics. Bing also sweetens the pot with a rewards program that allows users to earn points that can be redeemed on websites like Amazon and Fandango. When you want privacy. Google keeps track of searches, so it’s database includes information about everything from your health issues to your purchasing preferences. If you’d rather keep your search history private, you can use duckduckgo.com or ixquick. com. Both websites promise that they won’t record anything about you or your searches. 42

When you want just the facts. Wolframalpha.com indexes nothing but verifiable information about math, science, history and other topics. This makes it an especially good source for students who are trying to get their facts straight. When you want to do good. Goodsearch.org is powered by Yahoo which is now owned by Bing, so it won’t return different results. It will, however, donate a penny to the cause of your choice every time you or your kids use it. When you want reliable health information. Looking for health information on Google can be contradictory and even scary. For the kind of research-based information you’d get from your family physician, turn to curated medical sites like Medline Plus (nlm. nih.gov/medlineplus) which is managed by the National Library of Medicine or Kidshealth.org which has been providing familyfriendly health information for over 20 years. When you want context. Yippy.com collects information from a variety of other search engines and quickly files what it finds into folders that appear on the left hand side of the screen. Sometimes seeing sub-categories for your topic makes it easier to zero in on the information you need. When you want the human touch. DMOZ.org is a directory of the Web, developed and maintained by an enormous network of volunteers. It won’t return millions of results, but each site has been reviewed by a person instead of a robot. No matter what search engine you or your kids use, you’ll get better results if you follow a few simple rules: Put words that go together in quotes. Link words that are equally important with AND. Use a plus sign (+) to indicate words that are crucial to your search and a minus sign (-) to rule out words that aren’t relevant. Most of all, teach your kids that what they find online is only as good as its source. Kids who can think critically as they search will have a huge advantage in a world awash in information. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has been writing Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses to conflict. Visit www.growing-up-online.com to read other columns. @ Copyright, 2015, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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The Benefits to Buying Local This Holiday Season Shopping local this holiday season can benefit your community in various ways. Holiday shopping dominates many people’s free time between the day after Thanksgiving and the final days before Christmas. While many people may shop ‘til they drop on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, those days still account for a relatively small amount of the hundreds of billions of dollars that are spent each holiday season. Shoppers now have a bevy of options at their disposal as they embark on holiday shopping season. Traditional in-store retailers are still around, and online shopping continues to grow in popularity with each holiday season. But many holiday shoppers are looking to buy local this holiday season, and such a decision can pay a host of dividends for both shoppers and the communities they call home. · Buying local benefits your local economy. Studies from Civic Economics, an economics and strategics planning firm, found that independent, locally-owned retailers return a far greater percentage of their revenue into their local economies than national chain stores. One such study examined the disparity between revenue recirculation among independent, locally-owned businesses in Raleigh, North Carolina, versus four major national chains in the city. The former recirculated 51.1 percent of revenue into the local economy, while the latter recirculated less than 14 percent. Similar results were discovered in many cities, indicating that buying local not only benefits local business owners, but also the communities those owners and their customers call home.

Please join us for our 2016 Parent Preview Sunday, January 10 2:00 p.m. PreK 3-8th Grade Curriculum Overview, Gym 2:30 p.m. Campus Tour and Classroom Presentations Mom’s Day Out Open House

3650 Springhill Avenue 251.342.5442 www.stignatius.org

· Buying local creates jobs in your community. One of the biggest ways local business owners in Raleigh recirculated their revenue in the local economy was job creation. While national chains also create jobs, such jobs only benefit your community if the chains are located within your community. If your local mall is a considerable drive away, chances are the chains within that mall are not employing many of your fellow community members. Local businesses in your community are more likely to employ residents of your town. · Local business may provide a more personal touch. Buying from national chains has its advantages, but customer service is not always one of them. Should your loved ones encounter problems with their gift that requires assistance, they might be forced to wait on the phone for extended periods of time as they and thousands of others wait for customer service representatives to answer their calls. Local businesses do not deal with nearly the volume of customers as national retailers and, therefore, are capable of addressing concerns more quickly and personally than large chains. Buying local not only benefits small business owners, but it also pays dividends for their customers and the communities they call home. 43

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• Crowds, traffic, inlaws, extra bills to pay - no wonder the holidays stress so many people out. If you are one of these people, you are not alone. According to some reports, up to 90% of all adults become stressed about at least one aspect of the holidays. And the holidays are especially stressful for women, who shoulder the brunt of the scheduling, planning, shopping, and cooking each year. This year can be different. If you are ready to take your mood from stressed to holly-jolly, call on this list of radical advice for grinning all the way through your holidays, rather than grinning and bearing it from midNovember through early January.

1. Take charge. Declare yourself your life’s official cruise director. If you are waiting for others to make you happy - and feeling disappointed or resentful because they don’t try hard enough or try but miss the mark - stop. Make a bucket list for your life of everything you have always wanted to do and start checking off peak moments as soon as possible. Then, when you are done, put the whole family through the bucket-list making process. Two books by author Lara Krupicka, Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

Bucket List Living For Moms and Family Bucket Lists, make the bucket list creation process a lively adventure the whole clan can enjoy on a chilly afternoon or evening.

2. Determine your holiday preferences. If you feel like every holiday is already planned out for you by your extended circle of family and friends, you may have never actually considered what you prefer. Choosing not to choose is actually still a choice - but not a very good one. Ask yourself the question, How do I really want to spend my holidays? And then answer it honestly. And be specific, not just vague or reacting against what you don’t want. For example, if you’d rather wake up in a ski lodge on Christmas morning and have someone else serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, so you can hit the slopes with the fam’, so be it! Contemplate what you want - what you really want - so you can share your needs honestly with others.

3. Share your vision with your immediate family. If your family loves you, and I assume they do, then your vision 44

for the holidays matters to them. Even if they don’t share your enthusiasm for Black Friday shopping, Christmas caroling, and marathon tree decorating, everyone should be able to accommodate everyone else in the family. Who knows? Maybe by the time you are done regaling the neighborhood with “Oh, Holy Night” and “Rudolph The Red-nosed Reindeer,” everyone will be shivering and laughing in that ineffable way that makes lifelong memories.

4. Give each immediate family member a chance to chime in. Okay, so you have gotten clear on the ways you enjoy spending the holidays. Now it’s time to encourage the rest of your family to share what they want. Come on now, they tolerated your eccentricities and now it’s your turn to back them up. And yes, you have to attend the sporting event with your son you could probably live without and take your daughter to see The Nutcracker Suite for the umpteenth time. You will also go to the office party with your husband. If these are the things that make the holidays magic for them, who are you to disagree? www.mobilebayparents.com

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• You could go to a soup kitchen or you could take this year off and make soup at home. • You could fly across the country to see your great aunt and grandmother, or you could take a year off. • You could go to every holiday party you are invited to, or you could confer with the family about each choice first. • You could feel guilty about not visiting your in-laws or you could send a beautiful card and thoughtful gift instead. • You could attend midnight mass or you could create your own spiritual celebrations at home. • You could invite friends and family over for holiday meals or you could just have one potluck for the whole season. • What you choose to do this year does not have to be the new tradition. Try things and see what sticks.

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

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

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

Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!

We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode

first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse. Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness... I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,

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...

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Call for FREE DVD and catalog 1-800-882-0722 Accredited by American Camping Association • Members of Christian Camping International

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Christina Katz is an author, journalist and writing coach who has been working on developing her backbone her whole adult life. Her latest book is The Art Of Making Time For Yourself.

Be creative in your decision-making process. Remember that there is no such thing as one right choice for everyone. Choose whatever makes sense for your family.

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haps you have heard the quote, attributed to Mahatma Ghandi, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” But what he may have really said is, “If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change.” In other words, our personal happiness does matter and the way we live does impact the world. So in claiming our joy, we make the world a more positive place, as well. MBP

Activate The Power Of Personal Choice

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Give the extended family plenty of time to accept your plans. They don’t have to like them. In fact, you might think they will never speak to you again. But part of being an adult is learning to let other people face their feelings without continually adjusting your needs to fit theirs. Guilt may have been the type of internalized shame that kept you in line in the past, but it’s time to shake off this type of programming and live the life that really makes you happy.

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If you can’t remember the last time you just stayed home for Christmas and unwrapped gifts from under your own tree, then maybe it’s time to simplify your Christmas without feeling like you have to apologize to the entire world. The beauty of taking charge, having personal preferences, and sharing and receiving ideas within the family is that you can now communicate what you all need to your extended family members. Yup, your family is allowed to carve out your traditions and make space to create your memories. Now that you know what they are, it’s your responsibility to follow through as best you can.

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

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Christmas Night of Lights Through Saturday, January 2 755 Bolling Brothers Blvd, Mobile (Hank Aaron Stadium); www.christmasnightsoflights.com Christmas Night of Lights will be host to one of the most amazing drive-thru Christmas light shows you will ever experience. Hundreds of thousands of LED Lights, driven by over one thousand computer channels, synchronized to both traditional and new rocking Christmas music playing through your car radio. Pack your vehicle full of friends and family to enjoy the show as you begin a Christmas tradition. The fun doesn’t stop after you drive thru – come visit Santa’s village. Riverside Ice – Mobile’s Ice Skating Rink Through Tuesday, January 12 Cooper Riverside Park, Water Street and Government, Mobile; www.RiversideIce.com On November 14, the City will open its first outdoor skating rink in Cooper Riverside Park. This rink will kick off the holiday season with a lineup of jubilant and festive activities for all ages. This year’s proceeds will benefit the City of Mobile Parks and Recreation Department. The rink will be open 7 days a week operating from noon to 10:00pm on week days and until 11:00pm on weekends. The hours will fluctuate according to holiday and school schedules. The rink will remain open through January 12. Admission for skating will be $10 for adults and $8 for children 12 and under. This includes the cost of skate rentals. For more information, visit www.RiversideIce.com. The Shoppes at Bel Air – Christmas Activities Through December 24 3299 Bel Air Mall, Mobile (Bel Air Mall) (251) 478-1893; www.theshoppesatbelair.com Santa is here! Get your Christmas list ready, Santa will arrive at The Shoppes at Bel Air on Saturday November 14th at 10:00am and will be here thru Christmas Eve. Ho ho ho! Times: Monday – Saturday from 10:00am-4:00pm and Sunday from 12:00pm-5:30pm. Please note: Santa Feeds his reindeer from 1:00pm-2:00pm; 5:00pm-6:00pm. December 6 – Pet Pictures with Santa from 6:00pm8:00pm. Bring your furry family member for a photo Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

with Santa! Event taking place in the Dillard’s wing after mall hours. Use the mall entrance in the back of the mall by Forever 21. Greater Mobile Bay Area Choral Society Christmas Concerts Sunday, November 22; Monday, November 30; Sunday, December 30 (251) 434-9396; gmbacs.hambirds.me The Greater Mobile Bay Area Choral Society will present its annual Christmas Concert, “Music of the Holidays from the Valley to the Hill” in two performances, the first at Government Street Presbyterian Church, 300 Government Street, on Sunday, November 22 at 4:00pm and the other at St. Joseph Chapel at Spring Hill College, Monday, November 30, 7:30pm. The Concert Festival of “Lessons and Carols” will be held on December 20, Government Street Presbyterian Church, 300 Government Street. Pump It Up Holiday Fun November 23 – Wednesday; November 25, and November 27; December 18; December 21-24; December 28- Jan 1 741 Hillcrest Road, Mobile, (251) 342-3940 www.pumpitupparty.com/mobile-al We will be open for OPEN JUMP during the holidays! Playtime is from 10:00am -3:00pm on the specific dates listed above. Holiday Open Jump is offered for children of all ages. Cost is $8/child plus tax. Parents are FREE. Parents must accompany children. NOT a drop off. Socks and a signed waiver are required for everyone. Turkey Trot for Hope 5K & Gobble Wobble Fun Run Thursday, November 26 turkeytrotforhope2015.eventbrite.com The 6th Annual Turkey Trot for Hope & Gobble Wobble Fun Run will take place in Spanish Plaza in Downtown Mobile. This race benefits Camp RapA-Hope. Pre-register by mail (entries should be postmarked by November 20), in person at McCoy Outdoor, Run-N-Tri, or Fleet Feet in Mobile or Running Wild in Fairhope until noon on November 24, or online (http://turkeytrotforhope2015.eventbrite. com) until 4:00am November 25. Awards will be 48

given to the teams with the most participants, the fastest turkey, and the best Thanksgiving costume. Fish River Christmas Tree Farm Friday, November 27 – Wenesday, December 23, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 13982 Woodhaven Dairy Road East, Summerdale (off of County Road 9) (251) 988-8114; www.fishrivertrees.com There has always been something magical and heartwarming about a family trip to the country to search for that perfect Christmas tree. Enjoy strolling our beautiful 40-acre Christmas Tree Farm and evergreen nursery. Take a free ride on The Tannebaum Express “tree train” for a fun filled farm tour (weekends only). View our manger scene with live animals! Visit our new ‘Santa & Friends Family Fun Zone’ for family portraits and dancing with Snowball and Prancer. Santa will arrive for visits on the first two weekends beginning on Friday November 27th to November 30th, December 5th - 6th, and December 12th-13 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily. Take a tour of the farm and view the wide selection of trees including our choose and cut trees, our special container-grown Living Christmas Trees that can be decorated then planted after the holidays. We have fabulous shipped in Fraser Firs, flocked and snow-tipped trees. Also available are fresh wreaths, centerpieces, and garlands. For more details and directions please visit our website.

Wales West Arctic Express (ad on page 51)

Friday, November 27 – Thursday, December 24 13670 Smiley Street, Silverhill (888) 569-5337; www.waleswest.com All aboard the Arctic Express at Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway. Great holiday fun for the whole family! Ride an authentic Steam Train through a wonderland of lights and decorations to the North Pole. Children visit with Santa in the Winter-wonderland barn and receive a free wooden toy. Lots of photo opportunities to enjoy! Free refreshments served at the Train Station after your trip! Enjoy a ride on the Mini Train, hay ride, and playground Inflatable. In addition, Petting Zoo, Pony Ride, and Snowball Cannon are available for a slight fee. Try our Cafe’s new menu options, and www.mobilebayparents.com

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a Gift Shop full of train items ideal for Christmas presents! Open Nov. 27 through December 24. Hours: WEEKENDS: Fri’s, Sat’s, and Sun’s, 3 to 9 PM; Beginning Dec. 15, open NIGHTLY, 3 to 9 PM. Admission is $15/person, plus tax. 2 and under are free. Group rates, field trips, and parties can be booked in advance. Located on Co. Rd. 9 between Fairhope and Silverhill. For information call 888-5695337 or go to www.waleswest.com. Must see to believe! Register on website for coupons early in the season.

Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens and Home (ad on page 54)

Friday, November 27 – Saturday, January 2 (Closed Christmas, & New Year’s Day) 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore (251) 973-2217; www.bellingrath.org Bellingrath Gardens and Home is celebrating the 20th anniversary of Magic Christmas in Lights in 2015! The holiday tradition lets guests stroll through a dazzling display, which features more than 1,000 set pieces, 3 million lights and 15 scenes throughout the 65-acre Garden estate. In addition, the Bellingrath Home is decorated in its holiday finery and the Gardens are enhanced with hundreds of beautiful poinsettias. The holiday event includes nightly choral performances on the South Terrace of the Home. In addition, guests may purchase hot chocolate on Live Oak Plaza to warm the heart and soul. Magic Christmas in Lights is open daily from 5:00pm-9:00 pm with tours of the Bellingrath Home are every hour and half hour until 8:30pm. Advance tickets for Magic Christmas in Lights and for the Bellingrath Museum Home are available online at www.bellingrath.org. For more information, please visit www.bellingrath.org.

Christmas at the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion Throughout December 1906 Springhill Ave., Mobile, AL 36607 (251)471-6364; www.braggmitchellmansion.com Please join us for the sights and scents of the Christmas Season. We will be decorated in traditional Christmas splendor throughout the month of December. We schedule group tours and special events in addition to our regular historical tours. The Bragg-Mitchell Mansion, built in 1855, is a Bracketed Greek Revival –style mansion. Tours are conducted Tuesday – Friday, 10:00am – 3:00pm, on-the-hour. Doug Breau: Classic Christmas Tuesday, December 1 www.dougbreau.com; 3900 Pleasant Valley Road, Mobile (Davidson High School Auditorium) Doug & the Magnificent 5 celebration your favorite holiday classics along with several jazz and pop standards at 7:30pm at Davidson High School Auditorium. Featuring: Phil Proctor on guitar, Ben Harper on bass, David White on drums, Shane Philen on horns and the team is led by pianist and musical director Sean Worrell. All tickets $15 available at the door only. Plenty of seating!

Lights of Love 2015

(ad on Inside Front Cover)

Tuesday, December 1 USA Women’s and Children’s Hospital (251) 415-1636; www.rmhcmobile.org Three organizations dedicated to the care of children and families are celebrating the excitement and wonder of this holiday season! Everyone is invited to the annual “Lights of Love” tree lighting at USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital beginning

at 6:00pm, Tuesday, December 1. Co-sponsored by the Ronald McDonald House and the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute, the Lights of Love tree lighting directly in front of the hospital will also feature visits from Santa Claus and Ronald McDonald, as well as performances from local school and community choirs. Enjoy Christmas cookies, caroling and spread some old fashioned Christmas Cheer. USA Concert Choir & University Chorale Holiday Concert Tuesday, December 1 5751 USA Drive South, Mobile (Laidlaw Recital Hall) (251) 460-6136; www.southalabama.edu/music USA Concert Choir and University Chorale Holiday Concert with Laura Moore as the Conductor. This event takes place at 7:30pm at the University of South Alabama, Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Recital Hall. Admission prices: General/ $8; USA students/faculty/staff, senior citizens, children under 18/ $5. Dauphin Island Heritage and Art’s annual Christmas Open House and Auction Thursday, December 3 1008 Alabama Avenue, Dauphin Island (251) 861-3300 Kick off the Christmas season on the Island at Dauphin Island Heritage and Art’s annual Christmas Open House and Auction from 6:00pm9:00pm. This event will be held Thursday, December 3rd from 6pm - 9pm at the Dauphin Island Gallery. This year’s event will include a live auction of wonderful experiences such as a guided boat fishing trip, a boat excursion, original paintings of your home or pet by local artist, and many others. Tickets are $10 each and are now on sale at the Gallery.

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Mobile Symphony Youth Orchestra “Holiday Concert” Friday, December 4 407 E. Laurel Avenue, Foley (Foley Civic Center) (251) 943-1545; www.mobilesymphony.org The child musicians are sure to move audiences with sounds of the Christmas season. Semmes Old Fashioned Christmas Friday, December 4 3871 Wulff Road, Semmes (Semmes Heritage Park Malone Chapel); (251) 649-2184 Travel back in time to the early 1900’s and celebrate Christmas the old fashioned way. Time: 6:00pm. Grand Bay Country Christmas Friday, December 4 - Saturday, December 5 (251) 298-8089; www.grandbayonline.com An Annual Event that takes place every year in December. The weekend kicks off Friday night at 5:00pm with Santa Riding into town and the Lighting of the Tree! Saturday kicks off with Santa arriving to have Cookies & Milk and a special reading of “Twas the Night Before Christmas” at 10:00am. The nighttime parade begins at 7:00pm. Holiday Sales at the Botanical Gardens Friday, December 4 – Saturday, December 5 5151 Museum Drive, Mobile (Botanical Gardens) (251) 342-0555; www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org Decorate for the season with poinsettias, holiday plants plus fresh greenery and decorations by the Mobile county Master Gardeners. Time: 9:00am4:00pm. 1st Annual Georgetown Christmas Jubilee Saturday, December 5 9436 Wilmer Georgetown Road, Wilmer (Georgetown Assembly of God Church) Kick off your holiday shopping and get Merry and Bright Spirit at Georgetown Assembly of God 1st Annual Georgetown Christmas Jubilee. Join us from 9:00am-4:00pm. This is a great time to do Christmas shopping. 2nd Annual Reindeer 5K Run and One Mile Fun Run Saturday, December 5 Highway 43, Satsuma (Baldwin Square) 8:00am, beginning and ending at Baldwin Square in Satsuma. To request an entry form, email info@ jameshenderson.biz. Annual “Christmas through the Ages” at Fort Gaines Saturday, December 5 51 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island (251) 861-6992; www.dauphinisland.org Experience a Christmas of “Days Gone By!” This event is a living history Day for the whole family. Come and join the soldiers from the 1700’s through the 1900’s and their Families as they celebrate a non-commercial Christmas. Our visiting children will have the chance to make a seashells ornament and other decorations. Times: 9:00am-5:00pm. Christmas Boat Parade – Dog River Saturday, December 5 (251) 443-6300 Christmas on the River, the area’s largest and oldest Christmas boat parade, takes place on Dog River Saturday, December 5th at dusk. The event is sponsored by Grand Mariner Marina. Dauphin Island Christmas Parade Saturday, December 5 Dauphin Island (251) 861-5524; www.dauphinislandchamber.com Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

The Parade is Saturday Dec 5 at 11:00am. The Parade route runs along Bienville Avenue, running east from Cadillac Square to approximately the Public Beach.

on Sunday, December 6, at 3:00pm at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1707 Government Street, Mobile. Both are free and open to the public; all donations at the door will go to local charities.

Mobile’s Singing Children Annual Christmas Concert Saturday, December 5 2 South Claiborne Street, Mobile (Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception) www.mobilesingingchildren.org Come join us on Saturday, December 5 at the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception for our Annual Christmas Concert starting at 7:00pm.

3rd Annual Holiday Market on Dauphin Sunday, December 6 659 Dauphin Street, Mobile (Union) Local Artisans and Vendors displaying their goodies for sale, just in time for Christmas. Come join us from 4:00pm-7:00pm.

Santa Mini Session, Cookies & Crafts (ad on page 58)

Saturday, December 5 www.soireesignatures.com/shop-cookies Santa Mini Session + Cookies and Crafts with Hannah Stinson Photography, Ellen Jay Events & Sweets and Soiree’ Signatures Invitation Studio + Calligraphy. Cost of event is $200. From 12 4 pm at the Pillars of Mobile. Book your spot at www.soireesignatures.com/shop-cookies. Satsuma’s Annual Christmas Parade Saturday, December 5 Baldwin Square, Highway 43; www.cityofsatsuma.com Satsuma’s Annual Christmas Parade will be held at 11:00am. South Alabama Youth Ballet presents The Nutcracker Saturday, December 5 (251) 232-6285; www.gracelinesdance.com Join us on December 5 for the Nutcracker performance at Davidson High School Theatre (3900 Pleasant Valley Rd, Mobile). 2 pm and 6 pm. SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce 2015 Christmas Parade Saturday, December 5 (251) 666-2488; swmcchamber.com Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will promptly begin at 10:00 am and parade will begin immediately following the ceremony. Parade lineup begins at 8:00 a.m. at W.C. Griggs Elementary School on Three Notch Road in Tillman’s Corner. Breakfast with Santa will be held from 8:00am-9:00am at 5055 Carol Plantation Road, Mobile. Breakfast cost: 12 and under Free, $5.00 for ages 13 and over. The annual Wreaths for Charity will be displayed and for sale during the Breakfast with Santa. ‘ Christmas at the Richards DAR House Saturday, December 5 – Sunday, December 6 256 N Joachim Street, Mobile, (251) 208-7320; www.richardsdarhouse.com Experience a historic home ready for the holidays! The house will be decorated, homemade refreshments will be served and entertainment on hand to celebrate the holiday season. Times: Saturday from 10:00am-4:00pm and Sunday from 1:00pm-4:00pm. For more information, visit www. richardsdarhouse.com. Gloria Dei Chorale Christmas Concerts Saturday, December 5, Sunday December 6 www.gloriadeichorale.org Gloria Dei Chorale under the direction of Louis F. Daniel will present 2 Christmas concerts this year. The first will be on Saturday, December 5 at 7:30pm at St. Dominic Catholic Church, 4156 Burma Road, Mobile and the second concert will be 50

Bella Voce Concert Saturday, December 6 4051 Old Shell Rd, Mobile (St. Pauls’s Church) www.bellavoceofmobile.org Bella Voce of Mobile, Mobile’s premiere women’s chorus will present “Christmas Gift” on Sunday, December 6th at 4:00pm. The program consists of beloved selections for the Christmas and Holiday season. The concert will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 4051 Old Shell Rd in Mobile. Christmas on the Hill Sunday, December 6 www.facebook.com/springhillmerchantsassociation Village of Springhill Shopping Area “Christmas on the Hill” in the Village of Spring Hill is scheduled for Sunday, December 6th from 1:00pm-5:00pm. Christmas on the Hill is an annual holiday event created and promoted by the Spring Hill Merchants Association and the individual merchants of the Village of Spring Hill. This year a selection of the Village of Spring Hill’s finest boutiques will once again open their doors with special store hours, holiday refreshments, food trucks, sleigh rides, photos with Santa, holiday music and a variety of children’s activities as well as sales and special merchandise promotions. In addition, the event will feature an “Art Walk” where dozens of artist will display their artwork in front of Spring Hill merchants’ storefronts. The Old Shell Road Trolley will make multiple stops throughout the Village to help attendees move throughout the Village. This year we are very excited to be broadening our event with the inclusion of a toy drive that will benefit Ransom Ministries Candy Cane Christmas event for needy families. Toys can be dropped off at drop boxes throughout the Village of Spring Hill. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information like the “Spring Hill Merchants Association” on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ springhillmerchantsassociation. Hancock Bank presents Holiday Cheer at The Bull Sunday, December 6 609 Dauphin Street, Mobile, (251) 432-1101; www.cacmobile.org Hancock Bank presents “Holiday Cheer at The Bull” to benefit the Child Advocacy Center on Sunday, December 6th from 4:00pm-7:00pm. The Bull Cantina and Grill will host the event at 609 Dauphin Street in downtown Mobile. Other sponsors include: Tyndall Federal Credit Union, Lite Mix 99.9 Radio, Moore Law Firm, Norton Lilly International, Poarch Band of Creek Indians, South Alabama Trial Lawyers, and Wendell Quimby, The event will feature samplings of The Bull’s southwestern signature dishes and wines to taste, along with a select live auction of holiday gifts and live music by Jerry Squires. Tickets are available at The Bull and the CAC for $35 each. Roman Street & Mithril Christmas Concert Saturday, December 6 6 South Joachim Street, Mobile www.mobilesaenger.com www.mobilebayparents.com

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HUKA Entertainment presents Roman Street & Mithril Christmas Concert at 7:00pm at the Saenger. Lighting Up Midtown Annual Christmas Tree Lighting! Tuesday, December 8 107 Lafayette Street, Mobile Join St. Mary for this annual block party event, welcoming the Lafayette Street Fire Department to assist in the tree lighting. Santa will be there ready for photos! Plenty of hot chocolate, food trucks, Christmas Caroling and more! Takes place on St. Mary Catholic School Campus, 107 N. Lafayette Street, Mobile at 6:45pm. For more information, contact the parish office at (251) 432-8678 or email lwallace@stmarymobile.org. Playhouse in the Park presents A Christmas Carol Wednesday, December 9 6 South Joachim St, Mobile (Saenger Theatre) (251) 602-0630; www.playhouseinthepark.org The Playhouse in the Park presents “A Christmas Carol” at the Saenger Theatre on Wednesday, December 9 at 7:30pm for our one public show. Student shows are December 8 and 9 at 9:00am and 11:00am. Please visit www.playhouseinthepark.org for more information. Christmas at Oakleigh Thursday, December 10 300 Oakleigh Place, Mobile (251) 432-6161; historicoakleigh.com You are invited to step back in time with us as we celebrate Christmas in Mobile during the Victorian Era. Christmas at Oakleigh will be held

on Thursday, December 10. A Mobile tradition for over 60 years, Oakleigh’s Candlelight Christmas will feature living history tours of the house, Santa Claus, choir performances, storytelling, food trucks, and much more! Tickets are general admission: $12 in advance, $15 at the door; HMPS members: $8 in advance and $10 at the door. Children 12 and under are free! Time: 4:00pm-9:00pm.

Holiday Shoppers Trolley Trek (ad on page 49)

Thursday, December 10 (251) 208-6893; www.exploreum.com Holiday season shoppers are invited to take a special Holiday Shoppers Trolley Trek on Thursday, December 10 from 5:30pm-9:30pm. Gather your friends for the first annual shopping adventure at three of the top cultural institutions in Mobile. Start at the beautiful Bragg-Mitchell Mansion at 1906 Springhill Avenue, all decorated for the Holidays. Shop for unique gifts and enjoy refreshments. Then come aboard the holiday trolley and trek to the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center for a tour of Chocolate! The Exhibition, and visit the International Chocolate Store where there are unique gifts (and chocolate) from around the world. Next stop is the Mobile Museum of Art for great holiday shopping in one of the most beautiful museum stores in Alabama, plus an art market that will be going on at the same time. Free refreshments and holiday treats will be available at all three locations. Space is limited, so get your tickets now for a Merry Shopping adventure. The Holiday Shoppers Trolley Trek is sponsored by the Gulf

Coast Exploreum Science Center, Bragg-Mitchell Mansion and the Mobile Museum of Art. Tickets are $20 per person and are available on line at www.exploreum.com or call the Exploreum at (251) 208-6893. Mobile Museum of Art – Holiday Art Market Thursday, December 10 4850 Museum Drive, Mobile (251) 208-5200; www.mobilemuseumofart.com Join us on December 10 from 5:00pm – 9:00pm for our Holiday Art Market. Support your local artists and join the party and shopping fun with great food, drink, and live music. Womans’ Council of Realtors Christmas Jubilee Thursday, December 10 3851 Government Blvd., Mobile (Heron Lakes Country Club) We invite you to come out and shop with friends from 10:00am-2:00pm. Finish up your Christmas list and have a good time with the Mobile Chapter of Woman’s’ Council of Realtors. Free admission and open to the public.

Come to the Light Christmas Concert (ad on page 15)

Friday, December 11 6101 Grelot Road, Mobile (251) 342-0462; www.christumcmobile.com Christ UMC, 6:30 in the Sanctuary. Join us for our annual Christmas concert featuring Christ UMC Sanctuary Choir and Handbell Choir. The Christmas story will be told through music and

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monologues from Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth, a shepherd and a wiseman, culminating with candle lighting and carols.

Billy Claus visits Lulu’s! (ad on page 13)

Saturday, December 12th 200 East 25th Avenue, Gulf Shores. (251) 967-LULU (5858); www.LuluBuffett.com Billy Claus Oh Billy Claus how we love you... Poor Billy is allergic to snow so what better place for him to come and celebrate the holidays but LuLu’s. Come enjoy as this delightful children’s book, written by none other than the talented Lucy Buffett, comes to life. Enjoy a full day of arts & crafts, live music and get your picture taken with Billy Claus and his LuLubelle’s. Make sure to leave Billy your Christmas list so that he can personally deliver it to his brother (you may have heard of him) Santa Claus. What a better way to kick off the holiday season than a day here with all of your friends and family at LuLu’s. 3rd Annual Dawes Christmas Parade Saturday, December 12 (251) 633-0033; www.dawesbizconnect.com The Dawes Christmas Parade will start at 1:00pm at Living Word Church (2900 Dawes Road) and ends at the Winn Dixie parking lot at Cottage Hill and Schillinger Road. Candy Cane Christmas Saturday, December 12 7485 airport Blvd, Mobile (Hanger of West Mobile Baptist Church); www.ransomcafe.com Ransom Ministries Inc. would like to invite you to partner with us in reaching out to our community during the upcoming holiday season. We will be hosting our annual Candy Cane Christmas on December 12 from 9:00am-Noon. You can participate in this community outreach by donating new unwrapped toys or gifts for children of all ages, volunteering, or financially sponsoring this event. This donation only shopping experience will be morning fun for the whole family! Activities include: gift wrapping station, continental breakfast, crafts and games for kids, pictures with Santa Claus, story time and more!

Christmas Tea with Charming Teacup (ad on page 5)

Saturday, Dec. 12th 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. 17111 Scenic Highway 98, Point Clear (251) 300-0231.www.charmingteacup.com Darlings, join us for a very special Christmas Tea! Open to Ladies (and Gents) of all ages! Little Ladies ages 3-12 can enjoy getting dressed in one of our gorgeous gowns and Ladies ages 13-up can wear one of our fabulous tea hats to make this a fun and memorable event! We will serve a full Afternoon Tea with scones, Devonshire cream, tea sandwiches, fruit, petit fours and delicious Christmas cookies. Enjoy bottomless pots of our gourmet tea- over 15 flavors to choose from! We will also enjoy ballroom dancing and parlor games! The price is just $30 per child ages 3-12, and $25 for 13 yrs. old and up. Reservations are required and tickets are limited! Get yours before it’s too late! Call or visit our website to purchase tickets. Ginger Bread Time – Moorer/Springhill Branch Saturday, December 12 4 S McGregor Avenue, Mobile Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

(251) 470-7770; www.mplonline.org Come join us for Gingerbread Time! Calling all children, ages 3 and Up! It’s time for our annual Gingerbread Decorating Party! Time: 10:30am. Registration is encouraged. For more information or to register, please call (251) 470-7770 or email ftigner@mplonline.org. Historic Blakely State Park – Holiday Happenings Saturday, December 12 Hwy. 225 in Spanish Fort 4.5 miles north of U.S. 31 (251) 626-0798; www.blakeleypark.com Join us at Historic Blakeley State Park on Saturday, December 12th for storytelling, crafts, and cookies! Professional storyteller and former teacher Connie Cazort will tell holiday folktales and sing songs for children ages 4-8 at the park’s Nature Center at 10:00 AM. Kids get to participate in hands-on craft activity following and take home their own souvenir. $5 per child/ parents free. For more information visit www. blakeleypark.com or call 251-626-0798. The park is located on Hwy. 225 in Spanish Fort 4.5 miles north of U.S. 31.

Holiday at the Exploreum (ad on page 49)

Saturday, December 12 65 Government St., Mobile (251) 208-6873; www.exploreum.com Holiday themed science activities, photos with Santa and more. Holiday Half Marathon & 8K Run Saturday, December 12 (251) 473-7223; www.pcpacers.org The Holiday Half Marathon & 8K Run will start at 8:30am at Mullet Point Park (Take Scenic 98 south of the Grand Hotel to the intersection with County Road 1; Mullet Point Park is on the right). This race will benefit USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital Pediatrics Department — everyone is encouraged to bring a new toy in its original wrapping to the race. Toys are needed to distract the children while they are in the hospital. Pre-register by mail (entries should be postmarked by December 5), in person at McCoy Outdoor or RunN-Tri in Mobile or Running Wild in Fairhope until noon on December 10, or online (https://go.events.com/#/event/1901) until 4:00am December 11. Race day registration from 7:00am-8:15am at Mullet Point Park. Please visit www.pcpacers.org for more information. Kingswood United Methodist Church – Live Nativity Saturday, December 12 5200 Perin Road, Mobile (251) 661-0420; kingswoodunitedmethodistchurch.wordpress.com Kingswood United Methodist church will have its annual live nativity drive-through on December 12 from 5:30pm-7:30pm. This live nativity is a quarter mile long, lighted drive through with costumed characters, livestock, a King’s tent with Wise Men, Manger Scene, Shepherd’s Field and more. Saraland Christmas Parade Saturday, December 12 (251) 675-4444; www.saralandchamber.com The annual Christmas Parade will start at 12:00pm. For more information, please call Bill Silver at (251) 490-7694. 52

Semmes Christmas Parade Saturday, December 12 (251) 649-8811; www.cityofsemmes.org The Semmes Annual Christmas Parade will be held on Saturday, Dec. 12th, 2015 beginning at 10:00am on Wulff Road to Hwy 98.

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2015 Semmes Christmas Tour Saturday, December 12 10141 Moffett Road, Semmes; (251) 645-9176 The 2015 Semmes Christmas Tour sponsored by Semmes Woman’s Club, features a much anticipated Tour of Homes and a fantastic Tasting Tour! Starting site for the Christmas Tour is Allentown Elementary located at 10330 Howells Ferry Road. The Tour of Homes event is showcased from 3:00pm-7:00pm while the Tasting Tour is scheduled from 3:00pm-5:00pm. Advance $10 tickets which include both the Tour of Homes and the Tasting Tour will be available at Semmes Senior Center, Century Bank, Meggie B’s, and Ruby Blue. For more information, please contact Diane Moore at (251) 645-9176. Follow us on Facebook/Semmes Woman’s Club.

Mobile Symphony presents “Cirque De Noel” Saturday, December 12 - Sunday, December 13 6 Joachim Street, Mobile (Saenger Theatre) (251) 432-2010; www.mobilesymphony.org The MSO heats up the Saenger during the cool holiday season with the highly entertaining and energetic Cirque de la Symphonie. This grand display of movement is perfectly synchronized to some of your favorite classical and popular holiday music, creating an especially festive mood for this beautiful time of year. The Saturday performance starts at 8:00pm and Sunday starts at 2:30pm. The MSO heats up the Saenger during the cool holiday season with the highly entertaining and energetic Cirque de la Symphonie.

Mobile Ballet presents “The Nutcracker” (ad on page 1)

Saturday, December 12 - Sunday, December 13 401 Civic Center Dr. (Mobile Civic Center Theatre) (251) 342-2241; www.mobileballet.org Mobile Ballet will take you on a magical journey of brilliant dancing, sumptuous sets, and gorgeous costumes. This is a favorite for all ages. Saturday at 2:30pm and 7:30pm and Sunday at 2:30pm. 5 Rivers Christmas Movies and Activities Sunday, December 13, Tuesday, December 15, Thursday, December 17, Sunday, December 20 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort (251) 625-0814; www.Alabama5Rivers.com; www.facebook.com/5RiversDeltaResourceCenter 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center will have many exciting Christmas activities during the holidays. Join us! On December 13 and 20, we will have Sunday matinees featuring Christmas Movies. On December 13 we will have matinees alternating, “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”. On December 20, we will have Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas”. The films play throughout the day. On December 15, 5 Rivers StoryTime: “The Littlest Elf” by Brandi Dougherty. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts from 10:00am-11:00am. On December 17, City of Spanish Fort’s Reading of “Twas’ the Night before Christmas.” Time: 7:00pm. Cuddle up by the fireplace and join Santa as he www.mobilebayparents.com

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Beauty from Ashes: A Blue Christmas (ad on page 15)

Sunday, December 13 6101 Grelot Road, Mobile (251) 342-0462; www.christumcmobile.com Christ UMC, 5:00 in the Christ Center Gym. Are you missing your loved one or hurting this Christmas? We will remember those who have passed, pray for those far away and seek God’s healing. The Mobile Pops in Concert present “Sounds of the Season” Monday, December 14 3900 Pleasant Valley Rd, Mobile (Davidson High School Auditorium); (251) 679-6036 www.themobilepops.com 7:00pm. The concert will be at Davidson High School Auditorium. All concerts are FREE and open to the public. Bedtime Express – Ben May/Main Library Tuesday, December 15 701 Government Street, Mobile (251) 208-7086; www.mplonline.org Pick up a free ticket at the Children’s desk to make our own Cookie Train. Then enjoy your Cookie Train with some chocolate milk as we listen to a reading of The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg. We will also make reindeer treats to take home for Santa’s reindeer on Christmas Eve. Time: 6:00pm for ages 4-8. For more information, please call the Ben May Main Library Children’s Department at 208-7086 or email crhodes@mplonline.org. A Grinch Christmas – West Regional Branch Wednesday, December 16 5555 Grelot Road, Mobile (West Regional Branch) (251) 340-8571; www.mplonline.org Let’s Get Together for a Grinch Christmas! Calling all children - enjoy a special screening of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, make an ornament, and have a tasty, Grinch treat. Time: 10:00am-11:30am. For more information, call (251) 340-8571.

Sunny Side Theater & Drama Camp Productions presents “Elf, Jr.” (ad on page 41)

Friday, December 18 – Sunday, December 20 1400 University Blvd., Mobile (251) 510-1808; www.sunnysidedrama.com Sunny Side Theatre & Drama Camp Productions present “Elf, Jr.” at Moorer Center for Performing Arts at St. Luke’s Episcopal School. Show times: Friday at 7:00pm, Saturday at 2:00pm and 7:00pm and Sunday at 2:00pm. A Charlie Brown Christmas Saturday, December 19 6 Joachim Street, Mobile (Saenger Theatre) www.mobilesaenger.com The Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas has become a holiday tradition in Mobile. Kids, families and music lovers flock to this concert every year to hear the mastery of Vince Guaraldi’s classic “A Charlie Brown Christmas”. Of course, the cameo

appearance of Snoopy and Woodstock brings joy to everyone of all ages in the theatre Proceeds from every ticket sold will go to Delta Dogs, healthcare support and preventative medicine providers to the pets of Mobile’s community in need. A Christmas Experience featuring Toby Mac and Franklin Graham Saturday, December 19 Mobile Civic Center godaddybowl.com/coke-team-experience Come out and join us for a family-friendly concert called “A Christmas Experience presented by Coca-Cola and Manning’s Food-4-Less” featuring Toby Mac and Franklin Graham. The event will take place at the Mobile Civic Center on Saturday, Dec. 19, starting at 7:00pm. This event benefits local charities. Time: 7:00pm – 10:30pm. Tickets: General Admission - $15.00, Box - $25, and Floor or Risers $35.00. 53

Holiday Market & Christmas Kids Day Saturday, December 19 Cathedral Square (251) 208-1550; www.ncsmobile.org Arts & crafts...fun activities...music...pictures... dance performances...and much more! Join us at Cathedral Square from 10:00am-2:00pm. A Christmas with David Phelps Sunday, December 20 401 Civic Center Drive (Mobile Civic Center) www.mobilecivicctr.com Back by popular demand, the signature voice you love from the Gaither Vocal Band, David Phelps comes to you live in concert! Nicknamed “The Voice” for his otherworldly tenor-range pipes, David Phelps performs Christmas songs like no other. Backed by a full band, experience the joy of the holidays in this exclusive concert. Join us for an evening you will always remember

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as David takes you through his classic renditions of holiday favorites, past and present.

Christmas Candlelight Communion (ad on page 15)

Sunday, December 20 6101 Grelot Road, Mobile (251) 342-0462; www.christumcmobile.com Christ UMC, 5:00pm in the Christ Center Gym. Join us for a traditional Christmas Communion service by candlelight.

on the morning of the event, starting at 9am. Proceeds this year will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama. More information can be found at www.carpe-coffee.com or on Facebook, www.facebook.com/seizetheday95/ or by calling 251-304-0448.

Christmas Eve Family Communion Services (ad on page 15)

Farewell Circuit Riders Concert (ad on page 15)

Sunday, December 20 6101 Grelot Road, Mobile (251) 342-0462; www.christumcmobile.com Christ UMC, 6:00 pm in the Sanctuary. Bring the family and enjoy an evening of traditional Christmas carols, bad jokes and lost of fun and fellowship! Carpe Diem Santa Run Thursday, December 24 14th Annual Santa Run will begin at 10:00am at Carpe Diem Coffee & Tea Co. located at 4072 Old Shell Rd. It’s a family friendly 2 mile charity fun run with a course that starts and ends at Carpe Diem. Costumes, strollers, bikes, dogs are all welcomed and encouraged. Dr Feelgood from Azalea City DJs will be playing Holiday music for the event. Post-race coffee, hot chocolate, and treats will be provided. Registration forms can be picked up and dropped off at Carpe Diem. Registration will also be open

Thursday, December 24 6101 Grelot Road, Mobile (251) 342-0462; www.christumcmobile.com Christ UMC, Four services available. The 3:30 & 4:30 services are child-friendly with puppets and an interactive telling of the Christmas story. The 6:00pm and 11:00pm services will have music, scripture readings and Holy Communion as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Happy Noon Year’s – Gulf Coast Exploreum Thursday, December 31 65 Government Street, Mobile (251)208-6873; www.exploreum.com Noon Years event complete with our very own mini MoonPie drop. Noon year countdown and lots of family activities. Time: 11:00am-1:00pm. MoonPie Over Mobile New Year’s Eve Celebration Thursday, December 31 (251) 208-1550; www.ncsmobile.org Moonpie over Mobile is back. With over 60,000 people in attendance last year, this year’s New Year’s event will usher in the New Year in grand style. Get a larger glimpse at the moon pie as it rises over the

city in downtown Mobile. There will be live entertainment, activities for kids at the local museums and a countdown to 2016 like no other.

Noon Year’s Eve Celebration! (ad on page 13)

Thursday, December 31 LuLu’s - 200 East 25th Avenue, Gulf Shores (251) 967-LULU (5858); www.LuluBuffett.com Family friendly NOON Year’s Eve Celebration at LuLu’s! Think your year couldn’t possibly get any better, just wait and see what LuLu’s has in store to help you end the year with a bang. LuLu’s Annual Noon Year’s Eve party is pure excitement around every corner. From delicious food, sandcastle building contest, arts & crafts, live music, zoo animals, face painting, wow I could just go on and on, but wait there is one thing I forgot to mention... To count it down to noon we celebrate with kid friendly fireworks and a huge beach ball drop. Just take a look at the pictures from last year and plan your vacation to make sure you don’t miss this incredible event. See you there! Noon Year’s Eve Party! – Moorer/Springhill Branch Library Thursday, December 31 4 S McGregor Avenue, Mobile (251) 470-7770; www.mplonline.org Fun for All Ages! Join us for a kid friendly New Year’s Eve Party at 10:30am! Enjoy crafts, a photo booth, refreshments, complete with a final countdown and balloon drop at NOON! For more information, please call (251) 470-7770 or email eenglish@mplonline.org. MBP

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November 27 – January 2 • 5 – 9 PM Closed Christmas and New Year’s Days

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A Page in a Book Getting a Read on Personal Style Sometimes, you ARE what you wear. To the outside observer, our clothes and accessories are often the first indicator of the things we like – a peek at our personal vibe. A specifically colored football jersey, beachcomber shorts, a Marvel comics tshirt (or DC comics, if that’s your thing), Anna-Elsa-or-Olaf on a back pack: the items that kids choose to wear are early statements of their own particular tastes and interests. Giving kids some wardrobe control also empowers them to cultivate their own style – to become comfortable with this form of self-expression. The following titles explore the power of the right wearables to brighten up the gloomiest mood.

Churchill’s Tale of Tails

by Anca Sandu (Peachtree Publishers) Churchill’s life is filled with wonderful friends and hobbies, but the thing that gives him the most pleasure is his small curly tail. When he wakes up one morning and his tail is nowhere to be found, he’s completely out of sorts. Churchill laments that he just doesn’t feel like himself, so his generous friends offer to let him wear tails like theirs. Churchill quickly finds that he likes wearing all the different tails – and gets so wrapped up in enjoying other styles that he begins to neglect his friends. But a chance meeting with a new friend (who also happens to have a suspiciously familiar curl on her head) reminds Churchill that he has missed his pals just as much as he’s missed his particular tail. The reunion that follows celebrates both the return of his best accessory as well as Churchill’s best strength, which is being a good and loyal friend.

The Frog Who Lost His Underpants

by Juliette MacIver, Illustrated by Cat Chapman (Candlewick Press) For a frog with a specific taste in clothing, his missing underpants are a big deal. When Frog enlists his jungle friends to help him search for his special drawers, the rhyming recon that follows is a madcap adventure that turns up unexpected culprits. An army of frogs have stolen his coveted underpants! The solution entails sharing Frog’s signature fashion with all the other frogs to keep the peace. But Frog has an idea for his pants that will help him reclaim his own personal style of uniquely amphibious underwear. For any parents who have dealt with the drama that can follow when a child’s favorite clothing item goes missing, this title will be a delightful repeat read!

Hooray for Hat

by Brain Won (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) Elephant has woken up in a grumpy mood. When the doorbell rings, he stomps down the stairs with a rising temper to find...a present. Inside the gaily wrapped box is a hat, tall and layered with even more headpieces. Recognizing that it’s hard to be cross with a fantastic hat like that, Elephant dons the elaborate chapeau and heads off to show it to Zebra. But he finds Zebra in his own grumpy mood. Knowing how to turn that mood around, Elephant plucks a hat from his own amalgam and places it on Zebra’s head. The considerably happier pair begin a journey to lift the spirits of their other grumpy friends with hats from Elephant’s head. But there is one last friend whose hat needs are going to be a tall order. If one hat can make so many friends happy, then surely many hats can overcome the gloomiest mood of all! Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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Family Calendar Ongoing

Civil War Fort Gaines Historic Site, Dauphin Island. For more info call (251) 861-6992. www.dauphinisland.org. Concerts in the Park Sponsored by Mobile Pops Band. For more info call (251) 679-4876. www.mobilepopsband.com. Fort Conde Welcome Center Sponsored by Mobile Convention & Visitors Corp. Mobile. For info call (251) 208-7658. www.mobile.org. Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center Government St. Mon. - Fri. 9 - 5; Sat. 10 - 5; Sun. noon - 5. Adults (19 - 59)/ $14; youth (13 - 18) & senior citizens (60+)/ $12.50; children/ $12; Combo tickets include a viewing of an IMAX film: $18; $17; $15.50. HandsOn South Alabama (Formerly Volunteer Mobile, Inc.) For information on Local Volunteer Opportunities, contact 251-433-4456, www.handsonsal.org. Joe Jefferson Players Mobile. For information call (251) 471-1534. www.jjp.com. LODA Artwalk Second Fridays in Downtown – LoDa Arts District. Exhibitions (with receptions) and entertainment in a variety of downtown galleries and other venues. City of Mobile Neighborhood and Community Services. 6 - 9 p.m. Check NCS website for complete list of activities/map after noon the day of the event. For more information, please contact: 251-208-7443 or visit www.ncsmobile.org. Medicare Mondays Come by the Viva Medicare Cafe’ any Monday at 9 am if you or a friend have any questions about what Medicare is and how it can work for you. We always have a licensed agent on duty. This event is free and open to people ages 65 and older. The Viva Medicare Cafe’ is located at 3071 Dauphin Street, Mobile. For more information visit www.vivamedicarecafes.com/ Mobile or call 380-2222. Mobile Ballet For information about performances call (251) 3422241 or visit www.mobileballet.com. Mobile International Speedway Irvington. For information call (251) 957-2026. www.mobilespeedway.com. Mobile Opera Mobile. For information call (251) 476-7372. www.mobileopera.org. Mobile Symphony Mobile. For information call (251) 432-2010. www.mobilesymphony.org. Oakleigh Museum House Mobile. For information call (251) 432-1281. www.historicmobile.org. Richards-Dar House Museum Mobile. For information call (251) 208-7320. USS Alabama Battleship 2703 Battles Parkway, Mobile. (251) 433-2703. www.ussalabama.com. VSA Arts & Easter Festival Mobile. For information call (251) 343-0958.

Classes/Meetings

APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Regency Church of Christ, 501 S. University Blvd., Mobile. Parent, Youth/Teen Group and Childcare Is Provided. Topic Discussions & ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information please call 251-460-2727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@childrensaid.org. Autism Support Group in North Mobile We have a social play room for higher functioning children (4 and up) to engage and relate. The idea is to have a safe place for parents of Autistic children in our community to link up and network with other families. 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Saraland United Methodist Church, 415 McKeough Ave., Saraland. For more info or to RSVP contact Chris Gibson. Email Chrisgibson4149@gmail.com, or 251-281-7312. Azalea City Harmony Chorus of Sweet Adelines Meets/rehearses each Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Mobile

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Christian School, The Leopard’s Den. For more info call 251-380-0579 or visit www.azaleacityharmony.com. La Leche League Mobile Bay Area Breastfeeding support meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. and the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader. 251-689-2085, amandaLLLmobile@yahoo.com, meghanLLL@yahoo.com, or michelleLLLmobile@yahoo.com. Facebook: La Leche League Mobile Bay Area. Mobile Bay Area La Leche League Meetings are the second Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. The number to call for the location is 251689-2085. We can also be found on Facebook at mobile bay area la leche league. Parent-Child Worship Service Each Wednesday in January and February, Dauphin Way United Methodist Church will offer a new Parent-Child Worship Service from 9:15-10:00 a.m. (room E207) for parents and their children ages birth to four-years-old. Relaxed and filled with music, prayer, a Bible story and coloring, this new program is a wonderful opportunity to worship with your precious little ones. The program will be short, and then kids can play while parents enjoy social time. Contact Dauphin Way UMC at 251-471-1511 for more information. Dauphin Way UMC is located at 1507 Dauphin Street, Mobile. The Family Center The Family Center’s classes in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH minimum 24-HOUR RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. All classes provide a certificate of completion. The Family Center of Mobile *Nurturing Parenting course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12week rotating series. Call 251-479-5700 to register. *The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. See daily listings for class topics. *Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 weeks. *Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (Four things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. *Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks. 251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center classes. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. www.familycentermobile.org or www.Facebook.com/ FatherhoodMobile Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, please call the childbirth education office at (251) 4352000. • Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings for families and caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Meets every second Thursday of every month. E.A. Roberts Alzheimer’s Center, 169 Mobile Infirmary Blvd. Preregistration Not required. Free. Call 251-435-6950 for more information. 10-11 a.m. • Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Pre-registration is required; call 4352000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. • Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Gastric Bypass Support Meets every 2nd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia. Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care. A maternity tour is included.

Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital is pleased to offer a variety of classes on childbirth issues. All classes are located in Conference Room I (located just inside the main lobby doors of the hospital beside the Gift Shop) unless otherwise specified. To register for classes or for more information, you may call 639-2938 to speak with our Childbirth Educator, Kathy Wade RN, or email kwade@providencehospital.org. For Daytime Breastfeeding classes only, you may call Marcia Ranew RN, our Lactation Consultant at 633-1749 or email mranew@providencehospital.org. Support Groups • Providence Hospital Breast “Friends” Meets the second Friday of every month at noon in the Moore Conference Room. The Moore Conference Room is located in the cafeteria. Call Robi Jones for more information, 251-639-2852. • Diabetes Support Group Classes meet in the Diabetes Center, Suite D-436 in the Providence Medical Office Plaza. Call 251-633-1987 for more information.

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Spring Hill Medical Center: www.springhillmedicalcenter.com • Better Breathers Support Group Meeting For people with pulmonary disorders. Meets on the fourth Monday of each month. 2-3 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. For more information, call 461-2438. • Breastfeeding Class One Wednesday per month. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Family Center. Benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, going back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation Classes Four consecutive Mondays (6:30-9 p.m.) at The Family Center. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units. Cost: $25 if delivering at Springhill Hospital.  Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation: Accelerated Course  One Saturday per month. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The Family Center. Ideal for those who live out of town or will be delivering soon.  $25. Call 340-7769 early to preregister. • Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings Noon on the First Sunday of the month. Join us for an individualized tour and instruction for siblings ages 9 and younger. The event includes a tour of the maternity areas and tips on helping parents with the new baby. Parents must remain with their children.  By Appointment ONLY. Call 340-7769 to schedule an appointment. • Infant CPR  Learn this potentially life-saving technique while you are pregnant or soon after your baby’s birth. Covers infant CPR and choking. $5 if delivering at SMC. 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Family Center (Bldg. 2, Fourth Floor). Call 3407769 early to pre-register. • NAMI Mobile Support Group A support group for family members of those who suffer from mental illness. Meetings are held the third Monday of every month. For more information: Diane Kent at 5918021. 6-7 p.m., Spring Hill Baptist Church Activity Center. • Resolve Through Sharing For parents who have lost a child before or immediately after birth. Meets the fourth Monday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. Call 460-5323.

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USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1069. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Advanced payment required to secure your reservation. If you are expecting multiples or having a c-section, please call for additional class information. • Preparing for Childbirth All-day Saturday class for the expectant mother and her support person (coach). Topics include: pregnancy changes, labor, role of the support coach, relaxation and breathing techniques, vaginal and cesarean births, postpartum care, and a tour of the maternity areas. Fee per couple: $30. You should plan on beginning

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Family Calendar the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Every other month, 9-2. • Childbirth in a Nutshell This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets first Tuesday every other month from 6:30-9 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Fee per couple: $15. • Breastfeeding This one-night class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Topics include advantages, myths and facts, getting started, correct positioning, latching on, engorgement, returning to work and problem-solving. Class meets second Thursday from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital Fee: $5. Registration Information: Credit card payments are accepted by calling 415-1685. Mail payments for classes to: University of South Alabama, Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Education Department, 1700 Center St., Mobile, AL 36604.

Saturday, November 21

Mobile Symphony: Morning and Night Beethoven & Blue Jeans It’s Beethoven and Blue Jeans, the Mobile Symphony’s popular annual tradition. This season we present a journey from darkness into light, with Beethoven’s fateful, iconic and blazingly exultant Fifth Symphony. This masterpiece is accompanied by the lyrical and brilliant piano concerto by the MSO’s own former Composer-in-Residence, Pulitzer Prize winner Kevin Puts, who returns to Mobile to introduce his music from the stage. Dates: November 21 at 8:00 pm and November 22 at 2:30 at the Saenger Theatre (6 Joachim Street). Please visit mobilesymphony.org for more information. Spoken Word of Mobile - Open House 2015 at Toulminville Branch Meet and Greet Other Poets, Writers & Artists! Share your work and ideas, trade business cards, or just sit back and enjoy the beauty of the spoken and written word, and the visuals arts. 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm at the Toulminville Branch Library (601 Stanton Road). Registration is encouraged, but is not required to attend. For more information or to register, please call (251) 438-7075. The International Festival After celebrating its 25th anniversary in Mobile in 2008, the Festival returns for another 25 years of serving up the diversity of Mobile’s flavors and cultures. The Mobile Civic Center will host the event that brings the sights, sounds and tastes of the world together in one place! Come out and join in the cultural festivities during this three day event. School tour days are on Thursday and Friday, November 19 & 20. The public is invited on Saturday, November 21. To find out more, please visit www. mobileinternationalfestival.org. Downtown Mobile Fall Market in the Square Find fresh vegetables, seafood, hand-made candles, pottery, flowers and honey. 7:30 am – 12:00 pm in Bienville Square. “A Brand New Man” at Mobile Civic Center “A Brand New Man” is a country musical stage play featuring Julie Roberts, Brooke Hogan, Matt Kennon and Brad Martin. Roberts portrays an ex-country singer loaded with talent who’s married to an abusive, alcoholic. When a Nashville producer comes to town and hears her sing, he is smitten with both her talent and beauty and a romance ensues. Shows are 7:30 at Mobile Civic Center (401 Civic Center Drive, Mobile) plus a 3:00 p.m. matinee Nov. 21. $47-$56. www.brandnewmanplay.com. 5 Rivers SPECIAL GUEST local author and outdoorsman Joe Cuhaj Author of both hiking and paddling guides, Daphne’s own Joe Cuhaj will join us to talk about his latest adventures, and to share with us how we can get in on the fun. “Hiking the Gulf Coast” and “Hiking Through History Alabama.” 1 pm, Free. 5 Rivers (30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort). Please visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com for more information.

Sunday, November 22

Blueberry Jam at Weeks Bay Plantation Join us for Blueberry Jam at Weeks Bay Plantation to benefit the WISP Foundation (Weeks Bay Institute for

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Sustainable Organic Preservation). We are thrilled to welcome The Revivalists as our headlining act, as well as Earphunk, McLovins, and Maradeen. Each session will feature four bands, offering a wide variety of musical talent while crossing into multiple genres, creating the feel of a one-day music festival. 2:00 pm at Weeks Bay Plantation (12562 Mary Ann Beach Road, Fairhope). Please visit www. liveandlisten.com for more information. 5 Rivers KID’S Sunday Matinee “Free Birds” Come out and join us every Sunday for a free family, friendly film. In this week’s program, two adversarial turkeys find a time machine, and take a wild trip to the past to try to take turkey off the main menu of Thanksgiving. Showing at 10 am, noon, and 2 pm. 5 Rivers (30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort). Please visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com for more information. Mobile Symphony: Morning and Night Beethoven & Blue Jeans See November 21 for more information.

Sunday, November 29

5 Rivers Sunday Matinee “Earth Flight” Come out and join us every Sunday for a free family, friendly film. In this week’s program, take an awe-inspiring journey across six continents with camera-carrying birds, drones, paragliders and microflight planes. Location: 5 Rivers (30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort). Please visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com for more information.

Tuesday, December 1

5 Rivers StoryTime: “Dinosaur’s Night Before Christmas” by Jim Harris The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. This week, a festively fun and traditional story with a reptilian twist. 10:00 - 11:00 am. 5 Rivers (30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort). Please visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com for more information. 5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night Free, everyone is welcome. Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. 7:00 - 8:30 pm Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club; 7:00 - 8:30 pm Mobile Bay Sierra Club. 5 Rivers (30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort). Please visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com for more information.

Wednesday, December 2

Joe Bonamassa – Saenger Theatre As Joe Bonamassa approaches his 26th year as a professional musician, he continues to blaze a remarkably versatile artistic trail, and amass an authentic, innovative and soulful body of work. Concert at 8:00 pm at the Saenger Theatre (6 Joachim St). For more information, please visit www.mobilesaenger.com. GoDaddy Reading and Writing Contest Nearly 2,000 local 4th grade students will attend this program at the Mobile Civic Center Theater at 9:30 am to announce and award the 10 Reading and writing contest winners with savings bonds. Representatives from the GoDaddy Bowl and Hoar Program Management will be on hand, as well as one of this year’s Distinguished Young Women. The Hoar Program Management / GoDaddy Bowl Reading and Writing program strives to encourage students to read, write, and stay in school.

Friday, December 4

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Forever Plaid” The Plaids are about to make it big time. They’ve got a gig at the Holiday Inn, where they’ll present the music they’ve been honing since high school —“Three Coins in a Fountain,” “Catch a Falling Star,” “Jamaica Farewell,” “Love is a Many-Splendored Thing”—the music that’s the heart and soul of the 1950s. But their van gets clobbered by a bus of schoolgirls on their way to hear The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show. So we meet The Plaids in the afterlife—their one last chance for the gig of a lifetime and more. Mary Jo Alsip directs this warm and wonderful favorite by Stuart Ross, full of the style and harmony that wowed a generation. Dates: December 4-6 and 11-13. Curtain times: Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 pm; Sundays, 2:00 pm. Adults $15.00; Seniors (over 60), Students, & Active Military $12.00. Please visit www.cctshows.com for more information.

Saturday, December 5

Speed the Light 5K & 1 Mile Run/Walk Speed the Light 5K and 1 Mile Run will start at 8:00 am at Praise Family Church (2605 Dawes Road, Mobile). Register by mail (entries should be postmarked by November 28, in person at McCoy Outdoor, Run-N-Tri, or Fleet Feet in Mobile or Running Wild in Fairhope until noon on Thursday, December 3, or online at speedthelight2015.eventbrite.com until 4:00 am Friday. Packet Pick-up and race day registration at the Praise Family Church from 6:30 - 7:45 am. Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Forever Plaid” See December 4 for more information.

Sunday, December 6

5 Rivers Animal Ambassadors Meet and Greet Alabama has one of the highest plant and animal diversities in the United States. Join a member of our human educational staff and meet one of the local critter inhabitants from the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and beyond. 2:00 – 2:30 pm. Free. 5 Rivers (30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort). Please visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com for more information. 5 Rivers Sunday Matinee “The Private Life of Deer” Come out and join us every Sunday for a free family, friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week’s movie takes a closer look of an animal Alabamians are very familiar with - deer. Just a century ago, there were an estimated 1 million deer living on the North American continent; now their numbers exceed 30 million. This “Nature” documentary looks at the historical relationship between deer and humans, and its likely future. Free. 5 Rivers (30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort). Please visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com for more information. Commedia del Arte Traveling Players Auditions Commedia del Arte Traveling Players are now taking auditions for our 2016 Season! Open to all ages and experience levels 18 and up in the Mobile and Baldwin County area with a love of historical, comedic, and literary theater. Past productions include: “Robyn of Sherwood”, “The Five Musketeers”, “Alice in Wonderland”, “Sherlock Holmes and the Haunted Theatre”, “Sherlock Holmes and the Gypsy Curse”, “Dracula & Me”, “Arsenic and Old Lace”, and “King Arthur”. Call Shari Prestwood, Director, at 251510-0654 to schedule an appointment. Auditions: Sundays October 11, 18 November 1, 8, 15, December 6, 13 at Northside Bible Church. Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Forever Plaid See December 4 for more information.

Tuesday, December 8 5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night Free, everyone is welcome. Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. 6:00 - 7:00 pm Alabama Hiking Trail Society; 6:00 - 7:00 pm Mobile Bay Environmental Educators; 7:00 - 8:00 pm Mobile Bay Audubon Society. 5 Rivers (30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort). Please visit www. Alabama5Rivers.com for more information.

Wednesday, December 9 Learning Lunch – History Museum of Mobile Join us to explore new perspectives on the history and culture of Mobile, Southern Alabama, and the Gulf Coast from 12:00 - 1:00 pm. Each program begins at noon – bring your lunch and enjoy complimentary beverages! For more information about the Learning Lunch program, contact: Howard McPhail, Curator of Minority History at (251) 208-7557 or howard. mcphail@cityofmobile.org.

Thursday, December 10

Kids Studio – Ben May Library Kids Studio at Ben May is a free after-school class that encourages children to investigate themes relevant to Alabama’s culture and heritage through literature and art while using “History Refused to Die” as a resource. Classes are held on the second Thursday of every month at the Ben May Main branch (701 Government St) of the Mobile Public Library from 4 – 5 pm. For more information, contact Amanda Solley, Education Coordinator, at (251) 208-5658.

Friday, December 11

LoDA Artwalk Second Fridays in downtown is the place to be! Join

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Family Calendar downtown art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops as they open their doors and welcome you inside to see beautiful artwork, sample delicious foods and hear the sounds of the LoDa Artwalk. 6:00 - 9:00 pm in the lower Dauphin district. If you have questions call (251) 208-1550. Little Discoveries with Mr. Wayne Mr. Wayne from the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center presents lessons and projects fusing science and literature for preschool children from 10:30 - 11:30 am for ages 3 - 6 at Ben May Main Library. For more information, please call the Children’s Department at (251) 208-7086 or email crhodes@mplonline.org. Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Forever Plaid” See December 4 for more information.

Saturday, December 12 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Forever Plaid” See December 4 for more information.

Sunday, December 13

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “Forever Plaid” See December 4 for more information. Commedia del Arte Traveling Players Auditions See December 6 for more information.

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Wednesday from 11 - 12 pm at Alabama Contemporary Art Center (301 Conti Street). For more information, please contact Amanda Solley, at 251-208-5658. Teen Tinker Session – Moorer/Springhill Branch Library Join us at 3:30 pm (ages 11-18) and make unique ornaments using the art robot, EggBot at Moorer/Springhill Branch (4 McGregor South). For more information please call 470-7770 or email eenglish@mplonline.org.

Sunday, December20

Wednesday, December 23

GoDaddy Bowl The 17th annual GoDaddy Bowl will feature a match up between the Sun Belt Conference and the Mid-American our Conference. This event will be held Check out GoDaddy Bowl Mayor’s at Ladd-Peebles Stadium (1621 ings pen Hap y ida Hol Luncheon Virginia Street, Mobile). Please visit A special guest speaker will www.godaddybowl.com for more ide for seasonal events Gu address city officials, media, information. ! love will ily fam r you corporate sponsors, traveling Spectronics Post Game Fireworks parties of each Bowl team and Display other guests at a special banquet. Immediately following the bowl game, During the banquet, the GoDaddy there will be a spectacular fireworks Bowl will present “Champions of Life.” The Champions display over Ladd Peebles Stadium. of Life honor is given to individuals who have achieved great success through dedication and hard work. These We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. extraordinary individuals have overcome many obstacles However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information. and have given a great deal back to the community and

Wednesday, December 16 Tuesday, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue + Galactic plus December 22 New Breed Brass Band HUKA Entertainment presents Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue and Galactic plus New Breed Brass Band at 7:30 pm at the Saenger Theatre. Please www.mobilesaenger. com for more information. Pre-K Studio – Alabama Contemporary Art Center Pre-K Studio (ages 3-6) is a free program that allows children and their parents to explore contemporary art and music through fun projects. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds and deepen families’ understanding of current exhibitions, while offering cross-curricular learning opportunities. Classes are facilitated by trained professional educators. Classes will be held every third

country. $30. Arthur R. Outlaw Convention Center (1 South Water Street, Mobile) from 12:00 - 2:00 pm. Please visit www.godaddybowl.com for more information. Greer’s/Al.com Mardi Gras Parade, Pep-Rally and Street Party A Mardi Gras parade will be held in the streets of downtown Mobile starting at 6:30 pm. Sixteen Mardi Gras societies will be represented with floats and throws for the crowd. Several local high school marching bands will join the parade, as well as the bands and cheerleaders from each participating Bowl team. A huge crowd is expected to pack the streets of downtown Mobile for this early rendition of the Mardi Gras season. The parade will be followed by the official pep rallies of the participating GoDaddy Bowl teams and the AL.com Street Party. Please visit www.godaddybowl.com for more information.

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Tips for a Slimmer Appearance It doesn’t matter if you are on a never ending diet or even if you work out every day, our bodies simply change with age. Sometimes my clients call me very discouraged because of their constant body changes. I will be the first to admit I go through them as well. The benefit of what I do and why my clients call me is that I can show them and myself how to embrace those changes simply by changing up their style. Here are just a few tips and articles of clothing that you may have in your wardrobe to help you embrace yourself and your body simply by changing up or adding to your clothing style.

investing a little more money in your favorite shape wear then so be it. Do your research if you are not willing to invest in it and try the knock-off brands, or search sales. I personally love Target’s slimming wear.

Heels or the illusion of heelsI love a heel! We all know the longer our legs look the slimmer our legs look, and that goes for the rest of our body, too. I do understand that not everyone can wear heels so I will give you another option. Pointed toe flats are a great alternative for a more comfortable slimming look. I love a natural or metallic flat for added versatility, or you can have fun with a print. The options are endless.

Roll those sleeves up- If you have a jacket or cardigan, just roll the sleeves up. This will give you several illusions based on what you need: height, looking lean, or the definition your body needs.

Focus on your best body partsFocus your style around your best assets.

Invest in shape wear- Yes, this is very important for those problem areas. I don’t care what your body shape is, there are certain parts of our bodies we all struggle with. So make use of these fantastic inventions! Find the most comfortable one for you...if that means

Wear accessories- When you wear accessories like big sunglasses, scarves, chunky necklaces, a necklace with a drop pendant, or carry a big purse, it helps you appear more proportionate. 59

Wear black, but enjoy a pop of color- I love wearing a lot of black for several reasons, but the one main reason is that it is and can be slimming. To be honest with you, there is nothing wrong with that. Although, from time to time, I do enjoy some color. If you don’t want to wear all black, just try masking your problem areas with the shade. I like to pair my camel boots with my all black attire; this also makes me look long and tall without the need of a heel. Not thrilled with your legs, but love your upper body? Mask them with a well-fitting pair of black pants or a skirt, and add a bright pop of color on top. To hide larger arms or hips, choose a tailored black blazer and show off your bottom half with some brightly colored pants or a skirt. These are just a few tips. It’s so easy to enjoy your body simply by understanding how to dress it. Don’t stress about losing or gaining weight. Enjoy being creative and masking those problem areas that we all deal with simply by using what we have in our closets!

Laura Handey is an independent clothing consultant in Pike Road, Alabama. You may reach her by email at laura@ centsiblysouthern. com or visit her website at www. centsiblysouthern. com.

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The Peanuts Movie

Love the Coopers

MPAA Rating: G Overall: A Violence: B+ Sexual Content: A Language: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated The Peanuts Movie G. The Peanuts Movie could have gone in one of many directions. It could have turned into an adult farce dealing with trendy issues, like environmentalism and sexuality. Or it could have played straight to the kids with those potty jokes that are so popular in that genre. Or, it could stick to the tried and true themes of its creator, Charles M. Schulz. Thankfully, in spite of being reworked into a stunning new 3D animation, this movie still depict a world populated by a group of children who were never young, yet at the same time, never grew old. In fact, if you are a fan of Peanuts, you may be happy (or disappointed) to discover just how closely the film adheres to its heritage. Many of the franchise’s iconic moments are worked into the screenplay, which Snoopy types out chapter-by-chapter while perched atop his red-roofed doghouse. The trusty beagle gets lots of screen time too, with his old nemesis The Red Baron. Meanwhile the primary plot features Charlie Brown meeting a new schoolmate. Yup, the little redheaded girl has just moved in, and poor ‘ol Chuck is hoping he can start a new chapter in his less-thanstellar biography. Of course it isn’t as easy as having our protagonist go up and say “Hello”. Instead, as he notes, it seems everything is conspiring to interrupt his romantic ambitions. Those who have their Peanuts Ph.D. will recognize the tone of this script as being consistent with the last couple of decades of Schulz’s work (unlike the earlier years of the comic where the topics were more reflective of societal change). In other words, this is lightweight stuff. Lucy’s psychiatric advice to Charlie Brown is simple -- he needs to build his confidence. What follows is a delightful little tale of our hero doing his best to succeed … with a little help from his friends. The conclusion leads to a powerful message for young audiences about the importance of ethics and honesty. Aside from the expected name-calling (political correctness doesn’t stop Lucy from referring to Charlie Brown as a blockhead) and a few verbal battles, there are no profanities. Violence includes Snoopy throwing a typewriter at Lucy and the dog taking aim at The Red Baron, whom we see headed toward a crash landing in a forest. This mild content accounts for the production’s rare G-rating in the US. In his later years as his hands began to quiver from an essential tremor, Charles M. Schulz requested that nobody else every draw the Peanuts comic strip. Despite the desire to keep this tight reign on his work, I suspect he would be happy with this very familiar resurrection of this Peanuts characters, even if this 3D version provides Charlie Brown with an opportunity to learn a few things about himself.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: BSexual Content: C+ Language: C Alcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated Love the Coopers PG-13 for thematic elements, language and some sexuality. Antici-pointment. No, it is not really a word, but it certainly does describe the way anticipation can meet with disappointment. Although the idea of combining the two definitions is credited to Eleanor (Olivia Wilde), the reality is there are many people suffering from that feeling. And little wonder -- especially during all the hype of the holiday season. On this particular December 24, the Coopers are preparing for a spectacular Christmas dinner, hosted by Charlotte (Dianne Keaton). Yet only her husband Sam (John Goodman) knows that the reason for her obsessive fussing is because this will be the last supper the family will enjoy together before the couple, who have been married for forty years, announce their intention to break up. Their son Hank (Ed Helms) is also having a difficult time keeping things merry and bright for his three kids, due to his recent divorce and job loss. Charlotte’s sister Emma (Marisa Tomei) keeps up the pretense of sharing a loving bond, however she spitefully shoplifts the gift intended for her older sibling. The girls’ father Bucky (Alan Arkin) secretly finds more happiness from the friendship of Ruby (Amanda Seyfried), a young waitress at a restaurant he frequents, than he does from his daughters. And that brings us back to Eleanor, the cynical offspring of Charlotte and Sam, who arrives at the airport and stays at the bar rather than head home where she expects to face the disapproving faces of her worried parents. If this seems like a lot of characters to keep track of, don’t worry. Rags the dog (voice of Steve Martin) narrates all the way through, keeping track of all of the details along with explaining their various back-stories. And what results is a more poignant tale then I was expecting. If the promotions for this movie left you convinced this would be a glimpse into the dysfunctional private lives of a group of people, sprinkled with as many rude jokes and crude comments as the snowflakes falling on the winter landscape, you weren’t wrong. Sexual dialogue, a complacent attitude about adultery and unmarried intimate relations, flatulence jokes, a nod for recreational drug use and even disparaging remarks about God, are all part of the humor presented in this script. That is the disappointing side. The thing I didn’t anticipate was that amidst this trashy tinsel are some themes that shine. There is a good chance you may have a few realizations yourself as you watch these characters working through their perception issues and reactions to life’s disappointments. Still, whether or not the value of these messages will be worth overlooking all the crass clutter they are wrapped in, will be a personal question that could end in either antici-proval or antici-pointment.

What Parents need to know about Love the Coopers...

Violence: Bullying occurs. A fistfight leaves a character with scrapes and burses on his face. The loss of a loved one, and a medical emergency are shown. Sexual Content: Sexual references are frequent and include comments about unplanned pregnancies, unmarried sexual relationships and adultery. A child lifts her dress at the dare of a young boy. Various couples kiss and embrace, and a teen couple French kiss awkwardly and clutch each other. A character admits to being gay and discusses the disapproval he has experienced Language: Crude slang words are used as insults and to describe anatomy. Terms of deity are frequently used as expletives. Mild and moderate profanities, and scatological slang are also heard. Some name-calling occurs. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters frequently drink alcohol in bars and at home. Use of “pot” is mentioned and snickered at.

What Parents need to know about The Peanuts Movie...

Violence: Mild cartoon violence includes a typewriter being thrown toward a character, occasions of verbal threats and name-calling, and mild bullying. An ongoing storyline has a dog, sitting on his flying doghouse, trying to shoot down The Red Baron. Sexual Content: Grade school crushes are discussed. Language: Some name-calling is heard. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. Mobile Bay Parents I December 2015

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