Mobile Bay Parents December 2012

I chose my doctor because he delivers at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital.

My name is Candis Busby. My husband and I are the proud parents of two wonderful children, and we are expecting our third child this fall.

Our last baby, Ty, had some health concerns when he was born a few years ago and the doctors transferred him to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital. They said he would receive better care at Children’s & Women’s, and they were right. Today, Ty is a healthy, rambunctious boy!

Well, when we learned we were pregnant again, I said “this baby will be born at Children’s & Women’s!” They deliver more babies than any hospital in the

area, with the only intensive care unit for babies, so it just makes sense. I chose my

doctor because he delivers at Children’s & Women’s, and I would encourage every

mother who wants the best for her baby to Candis and Bucky Busby Monroeville, Alabama

do the same.

www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh

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Contents December 2012 Volume 2 Number 9

Features 36

Gifts Money Can’t Buy

38

Holiday Gift Guide

44

“I Think I Can”

46

Holiday Happenings

During this season of giving, find out what children want (and need) more than anything on the toy store shelves.

Visit these local businesses to find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list.

Discover eight ways to encourage optimism in your children.

Columns

Spend your holiday season out and about in Mobile Bay making memories with your kids. Our guide tells you where to go!

2 From Mom of the Month 4 Living With Children John Rosemond, Ph.D.

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Kids Health

On The Cover

Mike Little, D.O.

Departments 6 Bits and Pieces

33 Dave Says

14 School Bits

Dave Ramsey

34 Get This!

Paige Gardner Smith

54 Family Calendar

42 A Page in a Book

60 Parent Previews

Paige Gardner Smith

43 Craft & Cook w/ Kids Dana Moonan

Helen Hendrix (6) and Allison Manley (2).

Parents are Miranda and Michael Manley.

Helen’s father is Thad Hendrix.

Helen and Allison love writing letters to Santa and waiting to see what he surprises them with!

Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

Mobile Bay Parents Mobile’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@mobilebayparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@mobilebayparents.com

Associate Editor Kelly Watson

Research Editor Lucy Green

Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall Danielle Nicholas ads@mobilebayparents.com or (251) 304-1200

Contributing Writers Lauren Carter Mike Little, D.O. Dana Moonan Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Heidi Leudtke Smith Paige Gardner Smith

Cover Photography

Victoria Webb www.victoriawebbphotography.com

President Jason Watson jason@mobilebayparents.com

Visit us online at www.mobilebayparents.com Mobile Bay Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 81105, Mobile, Alabama, 36689. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 304-1200.

Mobile Bay Parents is copyrighted 2011

by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved.

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

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

From Mobile Bay’s Mom of the Month...

It is hard to believe the holidays are almost here.

It seems like just yesterday I was taking down Christmas decorations, and now it’s time to put them up again. I love this time of year…the hustle and bustle, the beautiful lights, the giving spirit, but sometimes the materialism of it all makes me feel a little guilty.

My kids have never been ones to make long Christmas lists, but there is always self-inflicted pressure to make sure their wishes are fulfilled. The joy of the presents on Christmas morning is fleeting. When I think back on the true, lasting happiness that comes throughout the year, it stems from quality time that was spent together as a family.

In the article, Gifts For Kids That Money Can’t Buy, Dr. Heidi Luedtke elaborates on seven meaningful gifts parents can share with their children. These gifts have the ability to shape a child’s life by nurturing confidence and self-worth. The article says that kids need time to be kids, without all the rigid schedules of school, sports, and other extracurricular activities. I know that sometimes as parents we over-encourage participation in such activities, but it is okay to have downtime. Finding a good balance is important.

In our free time as a family, we like to get outdoors and enjoy nature and all of the blessings we have here on the Gulf Coast. One way for us to do that is through geocaching.

Geocaching is an outdoor treasure hunt using a GPS and a series of clues. (Find out more by visiting www.geocaching.com.) It involves a lot of traipsing through woods and working together to solve puzzles, leading us to the hidden cache (usually a small container with a log for us to record that we found it). This is a free activity and the experience is priceless.

Dr. Luedtke also talks about giving kids the “Opportunity to Change the World”.

Children like to make a difference in other people’s lives. Last Christmas I wanted my kids to understand that not everyone is as fortunate as our family. So we made goody bags with Christmas candy and notes of well wishes and took them to Bienville Square on Christmas Eve. We passed out over a hundred to the homeless. It wasn’t much, just a token of holiday cheer. This year we are going to make scarves and continue our holiday tradition.

Children feel a lot of pressure, especially in today’s society. Recently, the news media has campaigned against bullying and rightly so. It is a problem that we and our children have experienced at some time. Now with the added pressure of social media the problem is compounded. However, sometimes children are their own bullies. This lack of optimism and self doubt works against the child’s willingness to succeed. The article, 8 Ways to Encourage Optimism in Your Kids looks at ways we can help our children focus on the positive in every situation. Use each negative life experience as an opportunity to learn how it could be handled differently the next time. It is also important as parents to shift the focus from the negative to the positive. We often fall into the trap of correcting bad behavior, but rarely reinforcing good behavior. Words of encouragement go a long way with a child. Our optimism as parents can lead to stronger, healthier and more optimistic children.

This holiday season it is my hope that we all take time to appreciate the gifts we have been given as parents…our wonderful children. Our children truly are the future. We have a responsibility to mold and encourage them, for they too will be parents one day. It is by our example that they will lead. Merry Christmas!

Lauren Carter 2

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

Living With Children

By John Rosemond

Discipline Consistently Even When Ex-Husband Won’t Q: My ex-husband

has our 3-year-old son from Thursday through Saturday, every weekend. When I hand him over to his dad, he’s fairly well behaved, but when I get him back, he’s disrespectful and defiant. It takes a day or two to get him back on track. I work very hard to discipline consistently and it seems his dad unravels everything I accomplish.

A: In the attempt to be fair to both adult par-

ties, divorce court judges often make rulings that are distinctly unfair to children. The sort of back-and-forth custody arrangement you describe is going to be very disruptive to most 3-year-olds. In fact, having to move households every few days would be very disruptive to most adults. Unfortunately, when parents divorce, children don’t have attorneys arguing on their behalf.

The problem is compounded by fathers who are nothing more than large playmates when they have their kids. This makes it difficult for their children to transition back to mothers who expect obedience and impose structure.

The only solution is for you to stay the course. Even though you’re in a “two steps forward, one step back” situation, continue to discipline consistently and with purpose.

Eventually, your efforts will pay off.

Q: I have 32 years of teaching experience,

mostly in second grade. All of us veterans have noticed that classroom discipline problems have been getting worse with every new year. At our school we have lots of problems with open defiance, disrespect, and constant interruptions. The most recent administration, however, considers any sort of punishment inappropriate, even having a child sit out recess.

What’s a teacher to do?

A: The reason classroom behavior has been

going downhill for at least thirty years is growing numbers of parents who don’t adequately discipline in the home. These same parents don’t support discipline from their kids’ teachers and even become defensive when anyone even suggests that their kids fall short of perfect.

From the point of view of principals and other administrators, the parents in question are impossible to deal with. The standard administrative response, therefore, is to try and avoid confrontations with them, no matter the cost to teachers. That’s why so many teachers complain to me that their administrators (and even school boards) don’t support their efforts to discipline, that they even go to great lengths to pacify protesting parents.

One way to avoid such confrontations is to prohibit punishment of any sort. This may seem “enlightened,” but the best research indicates that appropriate punishment is associated with not just better behavior, but

better overall adjustment as well. If it is just to reward excellence, then it is also just to punish misbehavior.

Unfortunately, I have no pat answer to this growing problem. My advice to teachers is fairly pragmatic: Choose your battles carefully. My advice to parents: Wake up! My advice to administrators: Find your backbones.

Q: My 5-year-old seems to have difficulty

paying attention and is in constant motion when I try to teach him to read or write.

That said, he can sit and watch a movie or build with LEGO blocks while following the instructions. Is this ADHD or just him being bored and not liking the activity?

A: I can’t make a diagnosis in a column, but

I can tell you that some degree of inattentiveness and “hyperactivity” is characteristic of young boys. That tendency is aggravated when adults force them to participate in activities they’re not interested in. According to good research, other factors that may contribute to excess activity and problems with attention span include watching excessive amounts of television, playing video games, and improper diet. Your son sounds like a typical 5-year-old boy to me, but if you have any doubts, then I strongly recommend a consultation with a child psychologist.

Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

Corpus Christi Catholic School BUILDING THE BODY OF CHRIST, ONE STUDENT AT A TIME .

Please join us at an Open House program. Interested parents are invited to tour our school, meet with students, teachers and parents, while learning about our many excellent academic programs for all students. For more information, please call 342-5457, ext. 1105.

Friday, December 7, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. —1:00 p.m. OR Sunday, January 6, 2013 from 1:00 p.m. —3 p.m.

Corpus Christi Catholic School 6300 McKenna Drive · Mobile, AL · 36608 www.corpuschristiparish.com

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

bits & pieces Mobile Pops to Present Sounds of the Season Christmas Concert

The Mobile Pops presents it's annual "Sounds of the Season" Christmas Concert on December 17th at 7 p.m. at the Davidson High School Auditorium, under the direction of Tripp Morris.

This concert will be the Start of The Mobile Pops 36th season of performing FREE concerts for the citizens of the City and County of Mobile. This concert will have music for all ages from young to old, so be sure and tell all of your friends and family. This concert will put you in the mood for Christmas.

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Daphne Streets Will Jingle on December 1 During Jingle Bell Run

Jingle Bell Run/Walk is the Arthritis Foundation’s annual holiday-themed running or walking event to raise awareness and funds to fight the nation’s leading cause of disability. Teams of families, friends, coworkers and individuals tie bells on their shoes and will jingle through the streets of Daphne on December 1. Participants can choose a 5k course or a 1 mile course to run or walk. We also offer an Elf Chase for children 8 and under. The festivities begin when registration opens at 6:45 a.m. at Daphne City Hall. Following the race events, we put on a great after party with cold and hot beverages, Grits and Conecuh sausage, Music, a Funfilled Children’s Area with jump houses, crafts and games. Don’t forget about our costume contest! Register by visiting www.2012jbrwgulfcoast. kintera.org or by calling the local office at (251) 706-8194.

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“Babes in Toyland”

See all your favorite storybook characters come to life in a lavish production of this holiday favorite. Staged at the historic Saenger theatre, a cast of 100 will delight audiences with singing, dancing, and colorful costumes. The public show is Friday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m. and the SchoolFest performances are December 6 & 7 at 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. Call 251-602-0630 or visit www.playhouseinthepark. org for more information.The Playhouse In The Park is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Free Family Fun at Mobile’s North Pole Stroll

Visit Royal Street in Downtown Mobile on Friday, December 7, from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m., for the North Pole Stroll! Visit Santa, Ride the Stroll Train, See the Grinch at Whoville, Write letters to Santa, See snow falling on Royal Street, and Take photos inside a GIANT snowglobe. For more information, visit www.downtownmobile.org.

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Carpe Diem to Sponsor Santa Run

11th Annual Santa Run, benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile, is a 2 mile fun run, walk, bike ride, dog pulling family event that comes complete with a hayride that is pulled by an elf driven John Deer tractor! This race takes place at 8 a.m. on December 24th at Carpe Diem, which is located at 4072 Old Shell Road. Don’t miss this opportunity to join the fun, spread the Christmas spirit and support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile. This event is about the spirit of giving…Please join us by running or becoming a sponsor.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for $250 or $100 and get your logo printed on the back of our famous Santa Run T-Shirt. Please send donation checks to: Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile, 1626 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36604.

Mobile’s Singing Children to Perform Two Holiday Concerts this December

Mobile’s Singing Children will perform “Believe”, on Saturday, December 1, at 7 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Attendees will be treated to a variety of pieces including traditional Christmas songs. The second concert is titled “An Evening of John Rutter” and will be held Saturday, December 8, at 7 p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church.

MSC’s two advanced choirs, Concert and Encore, will perform at this concert. As the title denotes, this special event will feature compositions by John Rutter. Rutter's choral music is very popular, particularly in the USA (NBC's Today Show called him "the world's greatest living composer and conductor of choral music"). Recently Mr. Ruttter’s work was a part of the royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. Both concerts are free and open to the public, with donations gratefully accepted. For more information about Mobile’s Singing Children, visit www.mobilesingchildren.org.

Merry Christmas

From Our Family To Yours

For u n d a S to you is b avior, o which r n this da y is Ch rist th in the city o e Lor d. Lu f ke 2: 1

Davi

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Call about our End of the Year Special!

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1100 Hillcrest Road, Suite D 251-639-0801 www.droliverortho.com

Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

bits & pieces Holiday Half Marathon and 8K Run for USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital

Come out and join us Saturday, December 8, at 8:30 a.m. for the Holiday Half Marathon and 8K Run to 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 for children staying in the hospital. This event is sponsored by the Port City Pacers.

The location for the race is 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. Pre-register by mail (entries should be postmarked by December 1), in person at McCoy Outdoor in Mobile or Running Wild in Fairhope until noon on December 6, or online (www.Active.com) until midnight December 6. Race day registration at the race site from 7:00 to 8:00. The first 350 people to register for either the half marathon or 8K will receive tee shirts. All other registrants will receive cotton tee shirts while supplies last. Food and beverages will be provided after the race. For more information, visit www.pcpacers.org.

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The Original Oyster House is Headed to the Green Side

The Causeway’s 1st Wind Turbine is being installed at the Original Oyster House. The foundation is poured and the poles have been delivered. Look for the new Wind Turbine on the Causeway the first week of December. The Original Oyster House is making big strides to go Green. In addition, both Original Oyster House restaurants are in the process of installing solar water heaters. For four years now the Original Oyster House has converted their used cooking oil into Bio Diesel to fuel their company vehicles. As ongoing sponsors of Alabama PALS thru Alabama Coastal Cleanup, it is clear the Original Oyster House is doing their part to keep our environment clean. So, head on down to the Original Oyster House and help them celebrate 30 years of exceeding their customer’s expectations.

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“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”

Sunny Side Theater presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson on December 14 - 16. This Christmas classic follows the crazy antics of the six Herdman kids after they bully their way into the lead roles of the church Christmas play. Told by Beth Bradley, the story shows what happens when the meanest of kids find the true meaning of Christmas. The cast ranges from Pre-K through 10th graders and has over 40 kids from schools all over the county! Performances take place at the Moorer Performing Arts Center on the St. Luke's High School at 1400 University Boulevard.

Lights of Love Tree-Lighting at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital

The annual “Lights of Love” tree lighting will be held at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital at 6 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 27. 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 the University of South Alabama Chorale, the Spanish Fort Community Kids Choir and the Baker’s Dozen from Baker High School. Visitors can enjoy cookies and cocoa while strolling the grounds of the beautiful Geri Moulton Children’s Park that forms the entrance to Children’s & Women’s. Parking will be available at the nearby USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. For more information, please call 415-1636 or e-mail cwhdevelop@usouthal.edu.

SchoolFest Performances of "Peter and the Wolf" by the Playhouse Puppets

The Playhouse Puppets will present the marionette classic Peter and the Wolf at the Playhouse-in-the-Park on December 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20 at 9:00, 10:00, and 11:00 a.m. The show is a faithful retelling of the musical story by Sergei Prokofiev and features hand-carved marionettes, hand puppets, and shadow puppets. The performance is 45 minutes long and includes a full performance and an explanation and demonstration on music and movement. This is a perfect introduction to the performing arts, and is suitable for K4 through 5th grade. Tickets are $5, with no charge for teachers.

Call 251-602-0630 or visit www.playhouseinthepark.org for more information. The Playhouse In The Park is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

bits & pieces High Schoolers Invited to Audition for Legally Blonde: The Musical

Other exciting happenings at the Azalea City Center for the Arts include auditions for "Legally Blonde: The Musical," presented for the first time in Mobile. Auditions are November 26 & 27 at 7:00 p.m. in the Sunny Side room at 63 Midtown Park East. They are open to all high schoolers, and those wishing to audition should come prepared to sing a song (from a musical theater genre) and read from the script. Show dates are March 22-24. For more information, please call 510-1808 or visit www.azaleacityarts.com.

Limited Edition Christmas Ornaments to Benefit Goodwill Easter Seals

Goodwill Easter Seals of the Gulf Coast is proud to announce its annual 2012 Christmas on the Coast ornament for Mobile. The limited edition, brass- and gold-plated ornaments have become collector’s items for many Gulf Coast residents. The 18th-Annual Christmas on the Coast ornament for the City of Mobile is Moulton Tower, celebrating the University of South Alabama’s (USA) 50th anniversary. Once more, “B” Sumrall, known for her paintings of Mobile and Baldwin County landmarks, designed the ornament’s artwork.

Revenue generated from the sale of the ornaments allows Goodwill Easter Seals to provide services in our community that encourage, educate and employ individuals with disabilities and others in need. Ornaments are now available for purchase at Goodwill Easter Seals retail stores, Gulf Coast vendors and online. For a complete list of retail locations, or to order ornaments online, visit http://www.gesgc.org/ornaments.html. The price is $12, plus $2 shipping and handling. In addition to the 2012 ornaments, a limited supply of select ornaments from previous years is available online.

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Every Step Walk for Universal Newborn Screening, Every Child. Every Time.

Everywhere. to benefit Hunter’s Hope Foundation

The event, held in honor of three children affected by Krabbe Disease in the Mobile region - Karis Almy, Victoria Lockhart & Lucas Nims will take place on December 1, at Chandler YMCA in Mobile. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. followed by a welcome ceremony and a family fun walk/run beginning at 10 a.m.

Karis, Victoria & Lucas all seemed healthy when they were born and passed their newborn screening tests. Within a few short months all three babies started having development problems and were diagnosed with Krabbe Leukodystrophy. If babies are screened for Krabbe Disease at birth, they have the opportunity for a potential life saving treatment through a cord blood transplant. Currently, all babies in AL are only screened for 44 out of the 56 recommended diseases at birth through newborn screening. These diseases are not otherwise clinically recognizable at birth, and, if untreated can cause irreversible physical and mental damage, or even death. For such diseases, early detection is essential to avoid these devastating outcomes.

Currently, AL does not screen for Krabbe Leukodystrophy, the disease which also affected Hunter Kelly, the son of Pro Football Hall of Fame Member and Former Buffalo Bills Quarterback Jim Kelly, and his wife Jill, for which the Hunter’s Hope Foundation is named.

Online registration for the Every Step Walk is strongly encouraged. Walkers and teams can register at www.huntershope.org/everystepmobileal.

An opening pledge of $10 counts toward an overall fundraising goal. Fundraising incentives are also offered! www.huntershope.org Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

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Mobile County Bicentennial Birthday Bash

On December 15, the Bicentennial Commission will celebrate Mobile County’s 200th birthday at the Alabama Cruise Terminal, 201 S. Water Street, from noon to 6 p.m. Performances by school, church and community choirs, dancers, oratorical presentations, barbershop quartet, Poetry Slam, Teen Ballroom Dancing, a laser light show, and music from local artists.

Interactive activities for families and children including storytelling, music, poetry and many other educational and entertaining events. Sign the scroll for the time capsule. Visit with Santa.

History, art, culture, music, science, and civic involvement are featured in exhibits and displays.

Visit the showcase of unique hometown products, services, businesses and entrepreneurs of Mobile County and purchase gifts for the Holiday. Mobile County Bicentennial Birthday Bash and finale – Rock with The Tip Tops Band as we sing Happy Birthday Mobile County and enjoy the largest birthday cake cupcake display from local bakers.

Giant MoonPie to Fall New Year’s Eve in Mobile to the Sounds of the Commodores The corner of St. Joseph and St. Francis Streets in downtown Mobile will be the hot spot for New Year’s fun this year. The Commodores will be the headlining act as Mobile rings in 2013, along with the midnight MoonPie Drop, a laser show and fireworks from atop the RSA BankTrust Building and in Mobile Bay. The free events will kick off with a Mardi Gras-style parade at 7:30 p.m. that will parade through downtown. Such local and regional acts as Wet Willie Band, Hotwire, Grayson Capps and others will be performing on stages in Mobile’s historic Bienville Square. The Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center and History Museum of Mobile will be offering children’s activities as the clock moves closer to the magical midnight hour. This is the 5th year the iconic MoonPie has debuted as part of Mobile’s New Year’s Eve Celebration.

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You have found your child’s “medical home.” Mobile Pediatric Clinic’s knowledgeable, compassionate physician and care team tend to your child’s health needs in a comprehensive manner, giving your child a genuine “medical home.” We are truly committed to helping children reach their highest potential by partnering with parents to promote and maintain their child’s physical and emotional wellbeing from birth through high school graduation.

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Katherine L. Savells

MD, FAAP ~ pediatric physician

32 Tacon Street, Suite A

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251.706.8170 Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

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Mobile, AL 36607

www.mobilepeds.com Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

Kids Heal h

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

The Well Child Appointment (2 Years Old)

Welcome to our last installment of the Well Child series. Your little boy or girl is not so little anymore. And if there haven’t been any sick visits since the 15-month exam, it’s been nine months since seeing your child last. Sometimes our two year olds will be nervous and cling to mama like a tree frog and other times they could care less. Every child is different and we don’t take it personally if they are screaming the entire time and trying to climb away from us while mom or dad holds them.

As promised in our last article I would like to touch on temper tantrums. Everyone has heard about the “terrible twos”, but are tantrums really only confined to two year olds? Of course not, but the difference and difficulty with two year old tantrums is the inability for the child to express their anger in any other way and our inability to reason with them verbally. What are we as parents to do? It is a fine line between giving in and rewarding bad behavior and drawing a line in the sand by saying “no”. My advice to parents has always been to completely ignore the tantrum if possible. Therefore, there will be no reward for bad behavior.

Furthermore, you are not setting yourself up for larger rewards or promises in the future just to curb the tantrum. Conversely, when your child is behaving well for you at the store or in church, take the time to praise them verbally. Positive reinforcement is the key to shaping good behaviors and redirecting bad ones.

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

During your two-year-old office visit most parents will point out that their child is becoming very skilled with a spoon and fork, likes to stack some blocks or toys, and can draw single lines on the church bulletin during mass. Their speech is growing to include short phrases with lots of single words. They can follow a more complex command and are showing a deeper desire to be self sufficient. Some may be able to put their shirt on (direction is optional) and pull their pants up. Many children will begin to display evidence of imagination such as having their stuffed animals talk to each other. Of course, this age only increases our worry as parents and physicians about safety around the house as we try to encourage independence while making sure the bumps and bruises are minimized. The exam is completed, the last of the early childhood vaccines are given, and your child is graduated to the big kid follow up plan which is on a yearly basis for the next few years.

Well, we have reached the end of our series detailing the well infant and child exams during the first two years of life.

And one of the recurring themes that I continue to touch on and think about is how fast it goes by for moms, dads, and pediatricians. I recently saw several of my patients that were newborns when I first joined the practice four years ago and I still can’t get over the fact that just yesterday they were cooing at me or telling me “no” because I

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had to look in their ears. And now we’re just friends who see each other every once in awhile. All I can tell you is to cherish these years with your children as I do with mine. When you are tired at the end of your day and your 12-year-old wants you to tuck her in at night, get off the couch, go upstairs, and tuck her in. It’s at those times that some of the best conversations you and your daughter will ever have happen. And when your 8-year-old son wants you to help him build the 700 piece monster LEGO fortress that he has built several times before, record the game on the DVR and go have fun with all those tiny pieces. It’s during those times that you will realize that he doesn’t need your help; he just wants to play with you. God bless you and your children and have Happy Holidays!

Mike Little, D.O. is Board Certified with the American Board of Pediatrics since 2005. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics since 2005.

Mike is married to Dixie, his high school sweetheart, and has two children, Carolyn (12) and Nathan (8). Dr. Little practices medicine at the Airport Boulevard office of Children’s Medical Group.

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

Pe Saraland 3rd Grader Participates in Mud Run

Alan Beatty in Mrs. Lomax’s 3rd grade class participated in the 2012 Seabee Volkslauf Mud Run on September 8. He completed a 5 mile obstacle course run that involved areas with water and mud chest -deep.

There were 1500 participants and he was the only one under 15 years old to participate. He finished in the top 100. This is a remarkable feat for such a young child! Pictured left to right: Alan Beatty and Mike Beatty (Dad).

Semmes Middle School Division 3 County Champs

The Semmes Middle School Bulldogs won the County Championship night defeating Burns Middle School in a hard fought game that went to double overtime. The Bulldogs’ defense stopped the Blazers’ conversion attempt and came away with the 22-20 victory!

We are so proud of our team, coaches, cheerleaders and the SMS Band for their hard work all season! The band and cheerleaders added that extra cheer and encouragement to help keep up the spirit of both the players and the crowd.

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Murphy JROTC Drill Teams Place in Recent Competition

At Ocean Springs Mississippi the Murphy High JROTC senior team competed against 13 schools from Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana.The female drill team led by Tarial Malone and Starann Foster won 2nd in armed platoon and 3rd place in unarmed platoon regulation and exhibition drills, and 4th place in unarmed squad drill. The female color guard also placed 2nd. The male drill team led by Tariq Alastal and Ellis Hale won 1st place in armed regulation and exhibition, 2nd place in unarmed regulation drill. The male color guard led by Tariq Alastal won 3rd. Robert Williams won 1st place in individual drill. Murphy won 1st place overall.

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Undefeated North Mobile Scores Triple Win for Volleyball Championship

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Congratulations to the North Mobile Lady Titan's Volleyball Team!

The girls went undefeated for the second season in a row and winning back to back to back a "Third County Volleyball Championship."

Pictured left to right Brandy Williams, Amber Bolden, Delia Cobb, Bailey Mann, Coach Sam Leffard, Shylie Williams, Taylor Cross, Whitney Donald, Randi Jones, Taylor Rester.

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ASMA Senior Makes Perfect Score on the ACT

Alabama School of Math and Science Senior Elizabeth Self scored a perfect 36 on the ACT. According to ACT, only 704 out of 1.6 million students who took the test last year scored a 36. For the mathematicians out there, that is 0.0004 percent! Self, who has a perfect 4.0 grade-point average, is on course to graduate “with distinction” in English and foreign languages from the school because, besides succeeding in the heavy college-level coursework in math and science, she’s taken six extra classes apiece in both English and French. Self says she hopes to study English and French, and to possibly teach one day. She’s never been to France, but she said she’d like to study abroad.

At St. Luke’s Episcopal School our size ensures that every student is engaged in curriculum, embraced by our faculty, and celebrated by our community. Whether it’s the arts, athletics or academics, at St. Luke’s you’ll find that your child will always be center stage. This environment, along with the strength and uniqueness of our academic programs and facilities, provides what we call THE ST. LUKE’S EXPERIENCE…but you can call it home.

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K3-5th Grade 6th-12th Grade

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Office of Admissions l www.stlukesmobile.com l 251.666.2991

Williamson Students to Participate in Golden Spoon Competition

Jakiel Franks, Reginald Lee, and Marvin James are participating in the Golden Spoon competition on November 10 at Culinard. They are preparing Salmon spaghetti, Italian Couscous Pudding, and a White Bean Dip with Pita Chips.

The students are under the direction of Educator, Deloris Quinney.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month.

Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

Early Childhood and Lower School Campus l 3975 Japonica Lane Middle and Upper School Campus l 1400 University Blvd. S. We accept all qualified candidates without regard

St. Luke’s accepts all qualified applicants without regard to gender, race, religion, national or ethnic origin.

• Batting Cages

Private lessons in both baseball and softball skills including pitching, hitting and catching, as well as speed and agility training.

Monday -Thursday: 3pm-9pm • Friday: 3pm - 6 pm Saturday: 9am-1pm • Sunday: 1pm-6pm

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• Pitching Mounds • Private Lessons • Camps and Special Events

26037 Capital Drive. Off Hwy 64 half a mile west of Hwy 13, Daphne www.TrainAtTheFieldhouse.com

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

St. Dominic Celebrates Red Ribbon Week

St. Dominic Catholic School recently participated in many great Red Ribbon Week activities. Daily themes included: Together We Can Live A Drug-Free Life, Be Reddy To Say No To Drugs, Team-Up Against Drugs, Don’t Let Drugs Sneak Up On You and Be The Best Me and Stay Drug-Free. The week’s activities were planned by students, selected to serve on the Red Ribbon Week committee. Pictured with St. Dominic Catholic School Counselor Sally Teague (back left) and Principal Linda Mathias (back right) are committee members: (l- r) Patrick Spafford, Hannah Murphy, Rachel Partridge, Caroline Galloway, Danielle Noletto, Ryan Haik, Mallie Tew and Marcelo Washington. Caroline was selected as the Red Ribbon Week leader.

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Fonde's Virtual Trip to Yellowstone

Fonde's fourth grade students recently traveled to Yellowstone National Park-via a virtual field trip! The students have been studying a weekly reading story titled, "Letters Home from Yosemite." The students decided to research the park and Yellowstone as well. The exciting part of the lesson included a video conference where Park Ranger, Beth Taylor hosted a tour and answered questions. The students were able to formulate intelligent questions to ask based on their own research. They learned about the geographic features and wildlife of both parks.

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Scarborough and Lott Middle School Allies in Awareness

The cheerleaders of Scarborough and Lott Middle School came together before their October 18 football game to show their support in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. Wearing large pink ribbons (Lott) or pink tube socks (Scarborough), the girls served as visual reminders for women to get annual mammograms and to take care of their health.

The cheer coaches are Maati Ta-Neter (Scarborough) and Rhonda Harrison (Lott). Left to Right: Kristen Nichols, Anna Ferguson, Shundria Coleman, Madasyn Odom, London Washington, Breanna Englebert, Raven Lee, Kara Farmer, Dynasty Cunningham, Taylor Moore, Melina Wilcox, McKenzie Blount, Breland Love, and Jenna Johnston.

Mobile Christian 4th Graders Travel Back in Time

The fourth grade class at Mobile Christian School visited Semmes Heritage Park on a recent field trip. The park has a replica of an early 1900's church and the original schoolhouse from 1902. The students were able to learn about the history of Semmes, Alabama, as well as see many items which had been preserved from the early 1900's. The students also attended school just like students did in 1902. They practiced their penmanship using slate boards and spellers along with reading practice with the schoolmarm. The students were able to experience what a school day would have been like in 1902. (Pictured – Top Row: C.J. Bruette, Rowdy Turner, Chance Spears, Abby Boles, Campbell Hodge, Emma Chiepalich, Madison Gall; Row 4: Patrick Harrison, Zane Parker, Yash Patel, Addison Chupek; Row 3: Holden Watson, Selena Le, Emily Grigsby, Matthew Dimmick; Row 2: Barton Erwin, Dalton Adams, Robby Cartee, Zachary Haynes, Conner Wimberly; Bottom Row: Avery Williams, Katie Hodge, Anna Dutton, Hayden Sellers, Ashlyn Henry).

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Faith's Miss Ram Pageant Places Focus on Others

On October 23, the students participating in the Miss Ram pageant showed that their focus was not on themselves, but instead on others. Each year the contestants of the school pageant participate in a service project; this year Miss Ram partnered with Operation Christmas Child. Students from 1st – 12thgrade spent the afternoon putting toys, coloring books, notepads, and many other items they purchased into shoeboxes that will be delivered to needy children across the world, through Samaritan’s Purse ministries. This is a wonderful opportunity that gives all of the contestants a chance to bless the life of someone in need. It also allows the older contestants a chance to be positive role models in younger girls’ lives.

“My favorite part of today was packing my shoe box and hanging out with my big sister Tatum,” said fourth grader Melody Tuohy. Pictured, third grader Klare Bergman (left) along with her “Big Sister”, 11th grader, Madi Franklin (right), pack shoe box gifts for Operation Christmas Child at the Miss Ram Pageant community service project.

St. Pius X 8th grader, Zach Chipalich, was recently honored at St. Pius as the school's Red Ribbon Ambassador for the 2012-13 school year. He is pictured here receiving the award from the school counselor, Mrs. Karen Hinton.

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Cottage Hill Cheerleaders Cheer to Fight Cancer

In September, the Cottage Hill Christian Academy termite, pee wee, and middle school cheerleaders participated in the GO Run held at the University of South Alabama. The GO Run is an annual 5K and 1 mile fun run held each year to benefit Gynecological Oncology at USA`s Mitchell Cancer Institute. The girls created several cheers about cancer, helping motivate the runners to finish strong and give everything they had. This was the 5th year for the GO Run and the 2nd year our cheerleaders participated. The USA Mitchell Cancer Institute was created in 2000 to provide care for cancer patients along the Gulf Coast through innovative treatment and research. The first academic cancer research institute in the upper gulf coast region, the USAMCI can support area citizens in their fight against cancer while they remain close to home, maintaining support of friends and family. The GO Run provides funds to continue the research for a cure for gynecological cancers. According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, in 2008, over 83,000 women were diagnosed with a type of gynecological cancer and almost 28,000 lost their fight. As citizens of Mobile, we are fortunate to have a facility like the USAMCI and an event like the GO Run to continue the fight against cancer through research. A huge thank you to our cheerleaders for participating and to all the CHCA families that joined our Warriors Running Team and ran the races.

St. Paul’s Third Graders Hold Service Day at Recycling Center

Third Graders at St. Paul’s Episcopal School held their service day at the Keep Mobile Beautiful Recycling Center. They toured the recycling facility and identified the items that can be recycled, the process for how to recycle them, and the items that are made from recycled products. They made bird feeders from milk jugs and coin holders from a Capri Sun pouches. Pictured front l-r: Elinor Gibson, Taylor Citrin, Blakely Endress, and Rachel Bell. Back l-r: Brennan Barnett, Zachary Vickers, Sam Goodloe, Noah Epker, and Win Lamberth. Keep Mobile Beautiful Representatives Phyllis Wingard and Bob Haskins.

Faith Academy Celebrating 43 Years of Excellence in Christian Education!

A SACS Accredited - AISA Blue Ribbon School College Preparatory and Advanced Placement Classes Dual Enrollment Classes Through The University of Alabama Accelerated Reader Program Free Help Classes High School and Elementary Computer Labs A CISCO Network Academy New High School Wing with Smart Technology Award Winning Band and Choral Programs 35 Acre Athletic Complex Elementary Activity Center/Gym Competitive Sports for Boys and Girls Grades 3-12 70 Athletic State Championships!

8650 Tanner Williams Road Mobile, AL 36608 (251) 633-7267 www.faithacademy.us Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

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D P St. Mary Catholic School 50 Plus Halloween Party

St. Mary Catholic School 7th graders presented the annual 50 plus club Halloween Party and Luncheon for all parishioners and guests who fall in the 50 plus age category!

The luncheon takes place each year on Halloween Day in St. Mary's Sisters of Mercy Building. Many guests attended in costume and enjoyed great food and entertainment from the seventh graders. This annual project was coordinated this year by Spanish Teacher, Cecelia Purvis and is part of St. Mary Catholic School’s Something Beautiful for God Program. Pictured are St. Mary Catholic School Seventh Graders, Grace Jensen, Ashlyn Blankenship, Addison Baucom, Luke Miller, and Emily O’Neill with participants at the event.

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Little Flower's Little Field Day

Little Flower Catholic School held its annual Little Field Day on November 9th to celebrate the benefits of the school's physical fitness program. In preparation for Little Field Day, students learn about the importance of games, strategies and good sportsmanship.

The day's events included relay races, potato sack races, basketball games, long jump contests and more. The event also helps student prepare for the Big Field Day, a competition among the local Catholic schools in the spring. Pictured are 7th and 8th grade students preparing for the big race.

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Dauphin Island participated in the Senior Bowl Charity Run on Saturday, November 5th. Pictured are Ashlin Lott with her parents, Christopher and Jennifer Lott enjoying the beautiful morning running for charity.

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Dauphin Island Students Participate in Senior Bowl Charity Run

House of2500Bounce! square foot

air-conditioned indoor playground!

McDavid-Jones Holds Awards Day

On November 8th Arkema held their annual Award Day for students at McDavid-Jones. Judy Smith, Human Resources and Dwayne Christian, Accountant were here for the awards.

Students were recognized for A/AB Honor Roll, Most Improved and Perfect Attendance. Students were giving tickets to redeem for snacks. Students were also recognized for meeting their Accelerated Reader Goal. They were given a bonus card that gives them extra privileges in the library. Because this is Partner in Education Week, each classroom made thank you notes, and drew pictures for the employees at Arkema. Pictured are Dwayne Christian, Accountant, Winter Dykes, Third Grade Student and Ms. Judy Smith, Human Resources.

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Corpus Christi Catholic School Recognizes Duke Scholars Corpus Christi Catholic School recognized our 2012-2013 Duke Scholars during mass on October 23. The Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP) is for academically talented 7th grade students who have scored in the 95th percentile or higher on a nationally scored standardized achievement test. These students will have the opportunity to take the SAT or ACT with other high school students and will receive recognition from Duke University for their participation.

They will also be eligible to attend summer educational programs at Duke University as well as other educational benefits. This year we had 30 7th grade students (53%) who qualified for the Duke Scholar Program.

St. Luke’s Juniors Participate in Ring and Commitment Pin Ceremony On October 29th, St. Luke's Episcopal School held the Junior Ring and Commitment Pin Ceremony for the Class of 2014. Each Junior was announced and then walked across the stage to receive their class ring from Headmaster Palmer Kennedy.

Each Junior was also "pinned" by a member of the school's current Senior Class. Pictured are Juniors Amanda Phillips and Mary Page Martin as they admire their new rings.

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Phillips Preparatory School Celebrates Cancer Awareness

The Phillips Preparatory School Pirates faculty and students brought awareness with the slogan “Arrgh You Aware� for Breast Cancer Awareness. The students sold pink t-shirts

by Trademark Promotions and cupcakes from Flour Girls Bakery to raise over $1900 to be donated to the USA Mitchell Cancer Research Institute. The donation will be made in the name of Mrs. Lisa fay, a former beloved teacher at Phillips Preparatory School, who lost her battle with breast cancer. The school has also created an outside science lab in her honor. We hope this donation will make a difference in the fight against all types of cancer.

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McGill-Toolen Uses New Technology to Expand Class Instruction Time

The students in the AP Euro and Pre-Ap English classes are using the Blackberry Play Pads as a learning and assessment tool. Students take assessments through Moodle and utilize a wiki for assignments and class discussion. By implementing technology into the classroom, the students are able to communicate and collaborate with others. Using this technology in class enables us to expand our class instruction beyond our class time. The students can access our Moodle and wiki activities at home.

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

St. Ignatius School Hosts Tailgate Party

St. Ignatius School hosted a tailgate at Lipscomb Field October 26 for the McGill v. Murphy game. The Dad’s Club cooked for all the students before the game and all the students wore pink to “Pink the Panthers,” in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Pictured with the Impala “Iggy” from left to right: Thomas Carey, James Hollon, Jacob Zakutney, Conrad Copeland, Walker Wilcox, Bo Carrington, Isabelle Brown, Cunningham Copeland and Lindon Hutchisson.

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Wilmer Students Elect Student Council

Wilmer students have been busy campaigning! Student council candidates campaigned for office during the first two weeks of October. Candidates for student council office gave speeches over the school intercom during morning announcements and made posters and other items with catchy slogans. Students in grades 2-5 were able to vote for officers on October 3rd. Voting machines were provided! Later in the month student council representatives were elected. On Thursday, October 18th, the 2012-2013 Wilmer Elementary student council was inducted. Bob Grip was the guest speaker. Pictured, Back row L to RTim Dollar, Principal, Bob Grip, guest speaker; Front row L to R- Max Parden (President), Chloe Dixon (Vice President), Lauren Peacock (secretary), Rylan Parker (treasurer), Leann Denmark (Historian).

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Sea Cadets Train at National Flight Academy

Sea Cadets from across the Southeast were invited to train at the National Flight Academy (NFA) at NAS Pensacola. Dunlap Division of the Naval Sea Cadets from Mobile, Alabama, had 16 cadets attend NFA. The cadets boarded the virtual aircraft carrier, Ambition, for a weekend of fun and intense curriculum in science and math. While aboard, they hit the classrooms to plan their exciting mission. Some cadets stepped into the flight simulators as pilots and co-pilots. Others were able to take charge as Watch Captain and Tactical Coordinator, helping their fellow squadronmates command and control virtual aircraft flown by their peers in flight simulators.

In other news, the unit would like to welcome MA3 Jacob Agnell, Operations Officer, and Robin Townsend, Supply Officer, to the Dunlap Division. We are pleased to have both Instructors as adult leaders and look forward to a long term relationship. The Sea and League Cadets drill together one weekend a month at the United States Coast Guard Aviation Training Center in Mobile. Upon completion of training as a Sea Cadet, the young men and women cadets are under no obligation to enlist in any of the armed forces. However, if they decide to enlist, they are usually eligible to enlist at an advanced pay grade. Participation in the Sea Cadets is also a positive factor in the awarding of ROTC scholarships. If you or someone you know is interested in the program, visit our Division website www. drdunlap.org or our national website www.seacadets.org. You may also follow our local unit page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ DunlapDivison.

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SVS Robotics Team Places in Jubilee B.E.S.T.

For the 7th year in a row, little SVS’ Robotics Team competes against approximately 35 other middle/high school teams and comes out in the top three overall!

On Saturday, October 27th, ‘Game Day’ at USA’s Mitchell Center, little SVS’ Robotics team racked up win after win to land the team in third place overall!

They brought home awards for ‘The highest scoring points in one round (Top Gun Award)’; 2nd place for ‘Best Spirit and Sportsmanship’; and 4th best robot!

This means that also for the 7th consecutive year, SVS will head to Auburn to compete against 56 middle/high school teams from 8 states along the Eastern Seaboard. Of these 56 teams, approximately 71% will be high school teams, of which approximately 40% of the participants will be high school juniors and seniors!

This is not new for this little school to take on much larger schools, with much older competitors, and come out in the top three teams in one or more categories. It is also worth mentioning that on Wednesday October 24th, the SVS Cheer Team held its second pep rally of the year in honor of the Robotics Team ushering in another BIG win for this SMALL school.

Davidson Robotics Team Climbing to the Top

The Davidson high school robotics team, called RobotEx, won first place in the Jubilee BEST Robotics Tournament at the USA Mitchell Center on October 27. This is the third year in a row that Davidson has smoked the competition to seal the 1st place trophy. This year’s competition required the robots to ascend a ten foot tall space elevator and deliver cargo to a space station. After experiencing a hardware failure in the morning the team persevered for a ‘come from behind’ win in the semi-finals and finals. The team won first place spirit and sportsmanship, first place technical notebook, first place robot, second place marketing presentation, the Hargrove award for SolidWorks CAD design, honorable mention for its corporate wellness program, and first place overall. The acquired win will advance the RobotEx team to the regional tournament in Auburn, Alabama on December 1 and 2.

St. Vincent Supports Worthy Causes

Service to the community is a key thread woven into the fabric that makes the SVS school family. When a member of their school family experienced the sudden loss of a child with Down Syndrome, the students rallied and took up ‘Lewis’ cause as their own. They collected and contributed money to Lewis’ Legions, then as a team took part in the 5th Annual Buddy Walk for the Down Syndrome Society, which was held on October 20th, at the Hank Aaron Stadium.

October is breast cancer awareness month. Once again SVS rallied for the cause that has touched many of their school families’ lives. The National Junior Honor Society sold pink ribbons and contributed the proceeds to the American Cancer Society, as did the St. Vincent PTO donate the proceeds from sales of pink shirts and huggers in support of the same group. Many girls (of various ages!) at the school sported pink hairpieces throughout the month. It is mentioned in the school’s mission statement - St. Vincent de Paul champions each student’s success and teaches to honor the values of Catholic identity through moral integrity and service to others. The students at this small school with a big heart are always looking for avenues of service.

St. Paul’s Artfest to be Held December 13

St. Paul’s Episcopal School will host Artfest – Alumni Art Sale on Thursday, December 13 from 6-8 p.m. Artfest will be held in honor of 36-year art instructor Beth Compton who retired from St. Paul’s at the end of last year. “Beth inspired a countless number of St. Paul’s students while she was here - many graduates express to me that Beth is the reason they pursued art in college and as a career,” said Leigh Jordan Brown ’78, photography instructor at St. Paul’s. The inaugural event will feature artwork, photography, 3D design work, jewelry and more from over 50 St. Paul’s Alumni all over the country.

The St. Paul’s Alumni Council will showcase and sell these pieces on Thursday, December 13 at the Tucker Home located at 117 Batre Lane. “All proceeds from the sale will benefit the art department at St. Paul’s. Beth started the art program in 1976 and it is only fitting that we hold this event in her honor and preserve our heritage while providing for our future artists here at St. Paul’s.” The event is open to all St. Paul’s Alums and their families. For more information, contact the Alumni Office at 251380-0408 ext. 22 or emaillbrown@stpaulsmobile.net. Logo artwork by alums Charley Parden ‘02 and Catherine Cleverdon Vulevich ’94.

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St. Dominic Service Club Leaders Announced

The St. Dominic Catholic School service club, Angels on a Mission, recently commissioned their leadership board for the 2012 – 2013 school year. Serving as leaders are : (front row l – r) Sarah Mathison, President; Anna Boucher, Board Representative; Maggie Overstreet, Secretary/Treasurer; Sam Rehm, Board Representative; Mauricio Washington, Vice President; William Blake, Board Representative; (back row l – r) Ryan Haik, Board Representative; Olivia Vives, Board Representative; Logan Rittlemeyer, Board Representative; Rachel Partridge, Board Representative; Natalie Grimes, Board Representative; and Evan Collier, Board Representative.

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Students at Weinacker’s Montessori School use a fun project to learn about the interdependency of all things.

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DINNER WITH SANTA At the Causeway Location Only.

December 18 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Dawes Intermediate Students celebrate Veteran’s Day with Week of Activities Dawes Intermediate students participated in various activities for a week in honor of Veteran’s Day. On Monday, each class participated in an art activity. The artwork was later taken to the Veteran’s Hospital in Pensacola, Florida. On Tuesday, the students had an opportunity to watch a United States Coast Guard Helicopter land on the school lawn. Throughout the day students had the opportunity to “tour” the helicopter. Wednesday, students invited veterans to school to talk to their classes and eat lunch with them. The students had a great time meeting and learning from all of the veterans that visited the school.

Thursday, patriotic music was played throughout the day. To end the week, students participated in a Veteran’s Themed Pep Rally. The Baker High School JROTC presented the flag, the Dawes Honor Choir and Dawes Dance Team performed, and Guest Speaker Mr. Keith Watts from Baker High School gave some history of the American Flag, and Veteran’s Day. The students had a wonderful week learning about the importance of Veteran’s Day.

Kids Eat FREE onTuesdays At BOTH LOCATIONS through Jan. 2013

Images courtesy of So Life Studios, 217 Fairhope Ave

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

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"Awaken"- SYATP 2012

Students across the nation gathered at their school flag poles on September 26, 2012, for a national day of prayer, known since 1990 as "See You at the Pole." Meeting around a flagpole, a student-initiated prayer service was held. This event occurs yearly, on the fourth Wednesday of September. Students congregate to pray for their classmates and country. Faith Academy was no exception to this student-lead event. School chaplain, Kaitlynn Chapman, led the students in prayer and devotion.

Seniors Garrett Romine and Shaina Bottiaux, members of the chapel worship team, lead the students in worship songs. This was then followed by a short word and scripture reading from Life Church’s youth minister, Steven Saddler. Students were encouraged to stand firm in their beliefs and to represent their faith in their school and among their peers. Pictured, second grade teacher, Mrs. Terri Saucer and students Catherine Barnard, Adrianne Wright, Sarah Barnes, and Haley Bender were part of the crowd that was gathered at the Faith flagpole for the annual “See You at the Pole.”

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R Cottage Hill Christian Academy Top Ten Students Honored

The Top Ten of the senior, junior and sophomore classes were honored with a breakfast recently. The Top Ten is based on the student’s accumulative GPA. Sophomore, KayLyn Sayers said, “To be in the top ten requires one to be faithful in the small requests and willing to put forth the effort when the big assignments come along.” Mr. Anderson, CHCA’s High School Principal, commemorated the students on their hard work with a certificate. The following students were recognized: Senior Class: Bridgette Bolton, Bethany Cobb, Delaney Grizzle, Joseph Hii, Riley Johnson, Ranya Kakish, Hannah Kibby, Zak Sorel, Karen Thomas, Eric Wesson. Junior Class: Eric Carbo, Jonathan Dismukes, Molly Fortner, Christopher Harrison, Laura Lopez, Berenice Lopez, Matthew Scelsi, Gabriel Tobias, Hannah Vanderheiden, Sara Wesson. Sophomore Class: Susan Dismukes, Caitlyn Dressler, Kristen Grubb, Caitlin Harbin, Hannah McDaniel, Aaron Meeker, Emily Overman, Cody Ramer, Caitlin Riordan, KayLyn Sayers, David Walks, Carter Williams.

Chastang Middle School Division 2 County Champs

Chastang Middle School are the Mobile County Division II football champions for the 2012-2013 school year. The Falcons defeated the Alba Sharks with a score of Chastang 50(fifty) and Alba 0(zero). The Falcons have been undefeated in their last six years of play and this year again are the undefeated Mobile County Division II Champions for the sixth year in a row.

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Allison Horner, Agent 6353 Cottage Hill Road, Suite F Bus: 251-666-1616 Fax: 251-666-6919 allison@allisonhorner.com www.allisonhorner.com

Cottage Hill Christian Academy

Open House Dates December 10, 4-6 p.m. • January 13, 2-4 p.m.

‘Tis the season to be jolly.

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Wishing you a safe and joyous holiday. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. ®

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4255 Cottage Hill Rd. Mobile, AL 36609 251.660.2427

9th-12th Grade:

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

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St. Pius X Holds Reception for Students of the Month

St. Pius X School honored Students of the Month for the first quarter and their parents, at a school Mass followed by a reception. Pictured here are kindergarten students who were honored at Mass.

Academics • Arts • Athletics • Spirituality Baker Student Chosen for US Paralympics AllAmerican Team

Baker High School student Aaron Moore was selected to join the 2012 U.S. Paralympics Track and Field High School All-Americans!

Aaron is one of 53 athletes chosen throughout the United States. This is the third year that U.S. Paralympics has honored the top high school track and field athletes who have a physical disability. Six of the high school All-American athletes represented the USA in the London 2012 Paralympic Games, which shows the quality and competitiveness of the All-American selections. Coached by Ms. Jennifer Coppage, with the City of Mobile, Aaron is a champion shot putter, for the goal ball team-The Mobile Mayhems! The selection criteria weigh multiple performances by each athlete compared against the “A” standard for the U.S. Paralympics Track & Field National Team. The ranking list is not a conventional list, as the results are weighted according to the level and type of disability.

The general disability categories of athletes named to the AllAmerican list are visual impairment, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, dwarfism, amputation/ limb loss and spinal cord injury. Athletes were selected based on their performances in the 2012 season and high school attendance during the 2011-12 school years.

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• Record $8.6 Million in College Scholarships Awarded to the Class of 2012 • Leading the State with 165 Athletic State Championships • Internationally Acclaimed Fine Arts Program • Practicing Faith Through Service ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL – EDUCATING THE WHOLE CHILD SCAN YOUR SMARTPHONE FOR THE ADMISSIONS VIDEO, AND JOIN THE FAMILY OF SAINTS.

Admissions Testing and Tours Saturday, January 5th & 12th • 8:30 a.m.

To schedule testing, please contact Julie Taylor in our Admissions office at 251-461-2129 or jtaylor@stpaulsmobile.net | www.stpaulsmobile.net SPS_MBParents_Ad_4-9x4-8_Acolytes.indd 1

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

St. Mary Catholic School Students Raise Funds for Annual Toy Bowl Classic

St. Mary Catholic School eighth graders raised funds for the 2012 Toy Bowl Classic held on November 17 with a snow cone sale. The Toy Bowl Classic, now held at Archbishop Oscar H. Lipscomb Field, is a long time tradition in the Archdiocese of Mobile with All-Star football and soccer games and a full Court of eighth grade students from all Catholic Schools. Pictured are St. Mary students: Morgan Duncan, Olivia Anderson, Anna Dolan, Morgan Russell, Breland McHenry, Zachary Petty, Hope Sosknowski, Olivia Davis Caroline Favret, Lily Anderson, Ellis Blackmon, John Racciatti.

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Mobile Christian School Students Visit Pumpkin Patch

Kindergarten students at Mobile Christian School recently visited the Pumpkin Patch at Christ United Methodist Church. The students listened to a story, picked out a pumpkin, and learned how pumpkins come from pumpkin seeds. Pictured are students from Mrs. Mindy Eldridge and Mrs. Lisa White’s classes.

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St. Ignatius Students Hold Blazer and Pin Ceremony

The St. Ignatius 8th grade class received their blazers and pins in a ceremony October 26. The entire 8thgrade class received their blazers. The students who have been at St. Ignatius since Kindergarten received a silver pin and the students who have been at St. Ignatius since PreK received a gold pin. Students are not listed in order pictured.

Robert Anderson, Lizzie Baker, Savannah Barlar, Georgianne Barton, Kristina Clarke, Christopher Cochran, Celia :’Olive, Rim Deighton, Matthew Duffey, Andrew Dunne, Bailey Gardner, Rose Gordon, Charles Green, Joey Hendrich, Camille Hunt, Annie Beth Immel, Alexander Kinney, Kate Leynes, Tripp Lott, Megan Nguyen, Tanner Pringle, Joe Seiter, Ben Smith, John Strope, Dickson Thames, Henry Tims, Raquel Waller, Max Barnes, Meggie Bertucci, Kendall Brown, Margaret Carey, Jay Carwie, Hayden Constantine, John Cooper, Ian Cummings, Hallet DeMouy, Katie Dunne, Patrick Dunne, Maddie Franklin, Gabriella Guardalabene, Thomas Hannahan, Mary Christian Herrin, May Hutchisson, Thomas Immel, Skylar Langan, Phoebe Lee, Luke Nicholas, Curran Nicholas, Claire Powers, Annah Robinson, Mitchell Slaughter, Rachel Smith, Jackson Thornton & Thomas Woodford.

Davidson Dash 5k and 1k to Benefit Penelope House

Davidson High School will hold Davidson Dash for Penelope House on December 15th. Davidson Dash is a 5k and 1k fun run.

Registration begins at 3 p.m., the run starts at 4 p.m. at the W. P. Davidson High School Campus, 3900 Pleasant Valley Road, Mobile.

Registration fees are $15 ages 12+, $10 12 and under and Free under 4. All proceeds will go to Penelope House. For more information or to register visit davdsondash.weebly.com.

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St. Luke's First Homecoming Queen

Four years ago, when St. Luke's began playing high school football with only a freshman class, the school held it's first Homecoming.

The Freshman girls decided then that they would have a traditional Homecoming Court but that no Queen would be crowned until the school had 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th graders. This year, in it's fourth year of high school football, the school had its first FULL Court. This year's Homecoming Court consisted of two representatives from each of the freshman, sophomore and junior classes, and all of the Senior girls. Monique Hawkins was voted the school's first Homecoming Queen. She is pictured with her escort, Mr. Roy Largue as she is crowned by Headmaster Palmer Kennedy.

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Corpus Christi Students Participate in Mock Presidential Election

Thanks to the 5th graders in Mrs. Pitts’ class, students at Corpus Christi Catholic School participated in a mock presidential election on November 6th. The students had fun casting their votes! “Poll” workers were busy handing out “I voted” stickers and ensuring that everyone got a turn. Pictured is Mrs. Pitts’ 5th grade class.

Please email School News to Lynn@ mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month.

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

D St. Paul’s Homecoming Court

Congratulations to the St. Paul’s Episcopal School 2012 Homecoming Queen and her Court. Pictured l-r: Callie Moss and Brett Erickson, Layne Watts and Andrew Peeler, Whitney Myers and Harrison Jordan, Bess Nichols and Cater Albrecht, Homecoming Queen Chanel Krause and David Frost, Lindsay Landry and Will Graham, Holly Friedlander and Alex Henry, Brooke Benefiel and William Kelly, Frances Case and John Hendren. Photo courtesy of M&A Studios Photography.

McGill-Toolen to Hold 4-Course Holiday Medieval Dinner and Performance

The McGill-Toolen Choral Company 6th annual Boars Head Dinner Festival presents a medieval performance of jesters, royalty, peasants, minstrels, knights, pages, and squires in a combination of revelry and good holiday cheer perfectly fit for a King’s Court! This year’s performance takes place December 13, 14, 15 in the Goff Auditorium on the beautiful midtown campus of McGill-Toolen Catholic High School. Showtime is 6:30 p.m. each night and includes a 4-course holiday medieval dinner from starters to dessert, served by members of the choral company throughout the evening. This festive company celebration promises great music, food and fun, with over 120 students participating. We promise to put you in the Christmas Spirit! Boar’s Head is directed each year by McGill-Toolen’s Choral Director Beth Haley. Tickets are $20 each. Find out more by logging on to www. mcgill-toolen.org, and clicking on Boar’s Head under ‘Useful Links’, or call 445-2900. Seating is limited, so call and make your reservation today!

Pearl Haskew Students Collect Canned Food for Food Bank

The PACE and ENTRADA students at Pearl Haskew Elementary just finished a food drive for Bay Area Food Bank. The students have been learning how the pursuit of greatness requires responsibility. They are discovering “greatness” in our country, and how they can greatly affect their own communities. Our goal was to collect 100 cans to donate to Bay Area Food Bank. Because Bay Area Food Bank is actually located in our community, many of our own students will directly benefit from our students’ hard work! My PACE and ENTRADA classes collected 107 cans of food! They were so proud to exceed their goal! Our culminating activity will be to tour the Bay Area Food Bank to learn how this “great” establishment makes a positive difference in the lives of many people.

McGill-Toolen Relays Raise $5000 for Coach

Thank you to everyone who came out to support the 50th McT Relays on October 27th and Coach Angelo Harris. The Friends of Angelo Walk drew more than 500 participants and raised $5000 to help Coach Harris in his fight against Mantle Cell Lymphoma.

Coach Harris said, "The kindness that has been shown to me and my family has been overwhelming and much appreciated". AND, McGill-Toolen swept the meet with first place finishes for Boys and Girls Varsity Teams with Carmen Carlos, Ebie Douglas, Anna Fouty, Phillip Friedlander, Cameron Stokes, & Finch Gross winning their relay flights. Fia Rose Carlos won the girls Open Division and David Williams came in second.

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Weinacker Montessori School teacher, Caroline, works with 8 year old Hessah Alakel on the pin maps and labeling countries.

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Montessori Students Learn About the Countries

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Dave Says...

Best Uses for Baby’s Birthday Money

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by Dave Ramsey

Q.

What’s the best way to save or use money given to a baby as a birthday present?

A. I think it depends on your financial

situation along with your plans and goals. If you’re at a place where you can’t afford necessities, then there’s absolutely nothing wrong with using birthday money for food, diapers or clothes. That’s not a fun answer, but sometimes you have to do whatever it takes to properly care for your family.

If money isn’t a big issue though, you’re left with figuring out a plan. In our case, we invested lots of it toward their college funds. Then we taught them to save for other things themselves. For instance, we didn’t buy any of our kids their first cars. But we did agree to match whatever they saved when it came to this purchase.

There’s also nothing wrong with just setting up a simple savings account and watching it grow. As they get older, you can involve them in the process and begin to teach them about the three uses for money: spending, saving and giving. And if you start something like this when they’re really little, chances are they’ll already have a nice pile of money already stashed away when they become old enough for those teachable moments.

The point is to have a plan. Once you have a definite idea in mind, it’s a lot easier to achieve the goal!

Q. Is it worth the time and effort to use coupons, or are they just a waste of time and a ploy to get you to buy things?

A.

Coupons are definitely a ploy to entice you to buy something you may not have purchased otherwise. But that Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

doesn’t mean they’re bad things. The practical and sensible application of coupons can definitely help you save money.

The main things to watch out for when using coupons are overbuying and spending your money on things you don’t really need. Seriously, you don’t need to hit Sam’s or Costco and walk out with nine gallons of mustard. I’ve even heard of people buying things they know they don’t like just because it was on sale or they had a coupon. I mean, how dumb is that?

I guess there is a time factor involved in collecting coupons, especially if you still like to clip them from the newspapers or flyers that come in the mail. Plenty of folks still do that every week. I think online coupons are a lot easier to search for and save though.

There’s a company I love called eMeals that will work with you to plan recipes and also give you information on coupons and sales in your area to make the meals.

I’m definitely not anti-coupon, but at the same time couponing alone won’t change your family tree. It’s like any other tool. If used in a smart way, it can help you save money. And that’s not a bad thing!

Dave is the author of The New York Times bestselling book Financial Peace. He is also the host of the nationally syndicated The Dave Ramsey Show. You can hear Dave online at www.daveramsey. com. Send your questions to askdave@ daveramsey.com. He resides with his wife Sharon and their three children, Denise, Rachel, and Daniel, in Nashville, Tennessee.

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

Curiosity: About Our Solar System

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

With the recent excitement about the successful landing of the Curiosity rover on Mars, it’s the perfect time to support children’s interest about what is ‘above and beyond’ the atmosphere of Earth! From developing a nodding acquaintance with the constellations to supporting a more developed understanding of the planets, stars and man’s study and exploration of the same, there are amazing toys and gadgets that foster and encourage young minds to expand into the spaces in between and reach for the stars!

by Paige Gardner Smith

Fisher-Price Imaginext Space Shuttle and Tower

National Geographic Kids Power Telescope

Sparking a little one’s imagination about space can be as easy as putting the means to leave Earth into their hands, While the voyages are imaginary, the power of this play set to spark imagination is real. The upright design of the launch assembly, with an elevator in the tower, an accessible cockpit and two astronauts boost the realistic sensibility of this play set. The roar of the rockets’ launch and other sound effects add another interactive level when the shuttle takes flight. With a launch setup very similar to actual space shuttle launch pads, the Imaginext Space Shuttle and Tower are just the beginning of a pretend-play journey that can rocket young minds to the stars and beyond.

There are a host of telescopes available for earthly and extra-terrestrial viewing, but finding one that is easy enough for pre-teens to use, yet advanced enough to actually study planets and stars can be tough. The National Geographic Kids 375x Telescope is a full-size refractor telescope with good optics that range from 25x magnification to 375x. The tripod is adjustable for height and the finder scope makes aiming at far away objects easier for novices. Easy enough for newbies to start with, but equipped for astronomy buffs to look longer and farther, this is the telescope to start the family’s visual journey into space.

(Fisher-Price)

(Citiwell)

Space Exploration Mobile

3-D Solar System (University Games)

Even though it’s ‘lights out’ at bed time, there’s no reason why young minds can’t look up for a while and ponder our solar system gently glowing in their own room. The 3-D Solar System includes the collected planets of our solar system (even Pluto – who’s still family in our mind!). Using the room’s ceiling light as the “sun”, we hung the planets in order from Mercury all the way to Pluto in the far corner of the room. Rendered with glow-in-the-dark plastic and colored to mimic the actual appearance of the planet, it becomes easy to discern each unique planet and learn their order from the sun. Tapping each planet and naming it quietly after lights out became a bedtime routine for us – and taught our kids the planets’ name and order by age 4. Simple, inexpensive and educational – the 3-D Solar System is also a gently glowing reminder to sleepy minds that there will be a big, ole universe waiting for them to explore when they wake up.

(Perisphere and Trylon Games)

Some kids set their sights on the stars early, so it’s worthwhile to share with them the elements of the ‘race to space’ and the evolution of technology that has allowed man to reach further into the recesses of space. From Sputnik to the International Space Station, the steps along the way included the Mercury, Soyuz, Apollo, Skylab, Space Shuttle and Mir missions in between. And all of these lofty projects are represented in this motorized mobile as they rotate around a color-wrapped, illuminated Earth. Less about the stars and planets and more about the journey to get closer to them, this is an ideal entertainment and cool room decoration for any youth with an eye trained on space!

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

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

kids’ deeper wants and needs, instead of getting caught up in the “more is more” consumer culture.

Give your kids these gifts money can’t buy– they’ll grow with your kids for a lifetime.

Gifts for Kids...

That Money Can’t Buy

by Heidi Smith Luedtke, PhD

In the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping, it’s easy to feel pressured by your kids’ latest material wants. Store displays and commercials have even the youngest kids clambering for bright and shiny new toys. If your child’s wish list adds up to more than you can afford and Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

you’re tempted to spend money you don’t have, give yourself a time out.

“Our kids do want more than material things,” says Betsy Taylor, Founder and President of the Center for a New American Dream in her book What Kids Really Want That Money Can’t Buy. Taylor encourages parents to focus on meeting 36

Listening. Kids have a lot to share with the world, but our busy work-school routines make meaningful conversations difficult.

Talk with your kids about their lives (school, friends, interests, dreams). Invite kids to share their ideas by asking good questions. “What do you think we should do about…?” or “If you could change one thing…?” are helpful conversation starters.

Then, listen deeply. Make eye contact with your child. Take it all in without interrupting. Ask follow up questions and share your ideas, too. Kids love to feel important and respected in conversation.

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Friendship. Kids want friends and have a deep need for acceptance. Help your child make new friends or strengthen existing friendships. Welcome your child’s friends into your home by hosting informal play dates or sleepovers. Kids build relationships by sharing experiences, so include kids’ friends in fun family activities, like baking cookies, playing games, or staging a talent show. There’s no need to entertain your kids and their friends every minute. They’ll treasure time to themselves and appreciate your respect for their privacy.

Family Connections. Kids need to feel a part of an extended family network.

Grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins and siblings are important figures in kids’ Advertising: 251-304-1200

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lives. Help your kids connect with far away family members through phone calls or email. Allow kids to make cards or gifts for special relatives. Encourage grandparents, aunts and uncles to spend time with your kids (and without you). Kids’ confidence and self-esteem grow in proportion to the number of caring adults in their lives. Arrange activities to share with cousins and siblings. Family members are friends, too.

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Kid Time. Kids want free time not cluttered by school, homework, have-to-do activities and programs. Help your kids unwind, learn and grow by protecting precious kid time. If their schedules are crowded by extracurricular activities, consider cutting back. Review the amount of homework expected of your child, and be his advocate if necessary. Too much work makes kids tired, cranky and unmotivated.

Give kids ample time to play or putter without specific tasks to accomplish.

Nature. Kids love the natural world and

Love and affection. More than any-

connect deeply with fields, forests, and animals. As we spend more and more time indoors at school, daycare, and home, kids

thing else, kids want to feel loved. They thrive on parents’ undivided attention.

Hugs and kisses, tickles and tousles, and

pats on the back are especially valued.

Don’t wait for a special occasion to show your child how much she’s loved and how proud you are. Slip a special note in your child’s lunchbox or backpack. Ask for one of his very special hugs when you are feeling down. Small and big kids alike want to see and feel love in tangible ways.

As you take time to meet kids’ psychological needs, you’ll build stronger, more resilient family relationships. But kids’ material wants won’t disappear over night. Letters to Santa and other giftgiving traditions focus kids’ attention on material things.

“In the end, we need to help our kids regularly consider if they really want or need any given item – and why,” Taylor concludes. “Perhaps the most fundamental question to instill in your kids is this one: How much is enough?” Be a good role model – don’t buy what you don’t need. Slow down and rediscover life’s simple pleasures with your kids. After all, in the ways that matter, you’re already wealthy beyond measure.

Heidi Smith Luedtke, PhD is a contributing writer.

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Opportunities to Change the World.

Kids dream of a world where people get along in harmony, everyone has enough to eat, and each unique individual is valued. Help your kids practice service and compassion. Work together to sort used toys or clothing and donate them to charity. Collect canned goods in your neighborhood and deliver them to a food bank.

Rake leaves or mow lawns for elderly neighbors and give the proceeds to a local environmental conservancy. Keep track of kids’ contributions so they see the big impact they have on others’ lives.

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lose touch with the special magic of the earth. Help your kids reconnect through outdoor play. Visit wild places close to home – lakes and streams, parks and meadows. Build snow forts or collect pine cones together. Watch squirrels scamper.

The gift of nature isn’t fancy or expensive, but your children will treasure it just the same.

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

A Page in a Book

by Paige Gardner Smith

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Best Bets for Ballet Books One of the most recognizable forms of dance worldwide, ballet is classic performance art, and for many young children a rite of childhood. The trappings of the dance style - the slippers, leotards, the barre and mirrored walls – are second in lure only to the movement and performance of ballet itself. Ballet’s simple rudiments allow young children to slowly take up a very complex and demanding dance style and pursue it as far as they are willing to take the challenge. The following titles explore both the elements that characterize ballet and the dreams that can follow when you point your toes in the right direction.

Brontorina

by James Howe, Illustrated by Randy Cecil (Candlewick Press) Approaching the doors of Madame Lucille’s Dance Academy for Girls and Boys, Brontorina is met with surprise by the teacher and disbelief from students who can’t imagine how someone so large (an immense dinosaur, and lacking the proper shoes) can possibly want to take up ballet.

But before she is turned away, Clara, a young dance student pleads on Brontorina’s behalf that she be allowed to dance. Brontorina learns the positions, but her size is still an issue as her head cracks the ceiling (and the pianist is endangered as well). Her dreams of dancing are about to be ended until Clara and the class come up with a solution that saves Brontorina’s dance future, expands their dance space…and expands hearts and minds as well.

Bea at Ballet

by Rachel Isadora (Nancy Paulsen / Penguin Books for Young Readers) Part of the beauty of ballet is its roots in tradition and the shared elements that characterize almost every young dancer’s experience in a ballet studio. ‘Bea at Ballet’ introduces all the things that an aspiring ballet dancer can expect to encounter on the journey to the barre. With pen, ink and oil paint drawings, Isadora illustrates the basic costuming (for boys and girls), as well as the traditional fixtures in a ballet setting (mirrors, a piano, a barre). The basic positions of beginning ballet are also tenderly rendered with small children learning the first poses. This title is the ideal introduction for any child interested in taking up the dance and who wants to be at ballet!

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Dogs Don’t Do Ballet

by Anna Kemp, Illustrated by Sara Ogilvie (Simon & Schuster) Biff the dog isn’t quite like other dogs. Unlike his hydrant-sniffing, stick-fetching, toiletdrinking peers, Biff prefers music, moonlight and walking on his tip-toes like a ballet dancer.

Following his owner to and from her ballet classes, Biff is entranced by the dance and it’s clear he wants to participate, but the teacher rebuffs the idea. When the girl suggests taking Biff to a big ballet performance in town, her father dashes the notion reminding his daughter that there’s no place in ballet for dogs. But when they cross town for the show, a short furry figure shadows them to the venue. And when the star of the show takes a tumble on-stage, the woofer from the wings may surprise everyone with exactly what a determined dog CAN do.

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

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Craft ng & Cook ng with Kids

by Dana Moonan

Fast & Easy Christmas Crafts (and Treats) As the most wonderful time of year approaches, there are many school events, church events, parties and activities. In the midst of this busy month, take a few moments to make a memory and a craft with your family.

Make an Ornament

There are many ways to personalize an ornament for family, friends or yourself.

Most crafts stores sell the hard clay like ornaments with spots to write the names of your family members or friends. Be sure to use a fine tip Sharpie, as this is the easiest way to add personalization.

You can also decorate an ornament.

Most craft stores also sell the clear glass or plastic round ball ornaments. If you are working with small children I suggest the clear plastic--it’s a little easier to push on when painting or decorating. The glass ornament balls are a beautiful choice for older children.

There are many possibilities for decorating.

You can write an initial in the center with a black Sharpie marker and then use red and green paint to make polka dots or stripes all around the ornament. You can paint it a solid color like red or green and make polka dots on top of that. Try some nontraditional color combinations like pink and green or blue and green or brown. These are fun gifts to make

and give to your children’s friends. They also make great hostess gifts with the family’s last name initial on it. Personalize it further with favorite football team colors.

The clear ornaments also offer the option of stuffing with something inside.

You can take off the top and add glitter, sparkles, small snowflakes or anything you can think of.

Make a Scarf

With a little bit of fleece you can make kid friendly scarves for your child, friends or even as an activity for a class. Measure out about 69 inches or 5 ½ feet of fleece from your local craft or hobby store. There are so many fabric choices to choose from that you can find a pattern for anyone--from cheetah prints, to sports themes, camo themes, flowers, stripes or holiday patterns. Then lay your strips of fabric out and cut fringe pieces 5 inches long on each side. That’s it…you are done! You can tie the pieces or leave them like a fringe on each side. These make great gifts and are really fun and easy to make.

Sugar Cone Christmas Tree Snacks These easy snacks are great to bring to a party, dinner or class event. You will need pointy, triangle shape sugar ice cream cones, vanilla icing, green food color, mini M&Ms, regular size M&Ms, and any other small

candy or marshmallows that you would like to use to decorate your tree. Now stand up the cone so that the pointy part is on the top.

Ice the cone with green tinted icing from top to bottom. This is your Christmas tree. Then add any candies to “trim” your tree. Marshmallow stars work great on the top of the tree. Or you can just use sprinkles for smaller children. You can pour the sprinkles onto a plate and just roll the tree in them.

Sweet Snowman

This easy snack craft is great for kids of all ages. You will need small powdered white donuts, vanilla icing, chocolate chips and any candy you choose to decorate. Simply build your snowman using three donuts stacked on top of each other. Layer a thin layer of icing in between to help them stick together.

Then add your “coal” eyes (chocolate chips), a Twizzler scarf and any other decorations.

A small Reese’s cup makes a great top hat.

Secure all of your candy on with vanilla icing.

Throughout this holiday season take time to enjoy the small moments and make something special today. It’s times like these that you will remember and cherish.

Dana Moonan is a former first grade teacher and current stay-at-home mom of three, Emily and Matthew, and Abby.

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

“I Think I Can” Eight Ways to Encourage Optimism in Your Child

by Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D.

It’s frustrating to hear your child mutter, “Why bother? I won’t make the team” or “It doesn’t matter. I can’t get an A.” Children today face enormous academic and social pressure, but an attitude of passive resignation isn’t healthy. Dr. Martin Seligman, lead researcher for the Pennsylvania Resiliency Project and author of Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life describes three benefits of optimism you’ll want for your child: Better health, greater academic and extracurricular performance, and the motivation to keep trying when times are tough.

Optimists experience less physical distress in challenging situations than pessimists and have stronger immune systems, according to 25 years of research conducted by Dr. Michael Scheier and his colleagues at Carnegie Mellon University. Optimists live longer and happier lives. In addition, optimists are achievers. Studies show optimistic youth get higher grades and perform better in athletic competition than pessimists, even when they are led to believe their earlier performance was not so good. These benefits are fueled by optimists’ tendency to give extra effort in Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

challenging situations – optimists believe hard work pays off.

While genetics play some role in determining kids’ attitudes, there is good evidence we can help kids look on the bright side more often. Seligman calls this “psychological immunization” against depression. Here are some strategies to help your child think and act optimistically in today’s pessimistic culture.

Practice thought watching

Learn to spot your child’s negative selftalk. Kids often express negative thoughts aloud: “My hair looks ugly,” or “I don’t have any friends.” Help your child reject unfavorable thoughts. Stop and discuss his internal dialogue. Encourage your child to police his thoughts for “bad beliefs” by acting as his very own thought cop.

Model optimistic self-talk

Talk with your child (over breakfast, or on the way to school) about what might happen today. Perhaps you have an important meeting or are attending a playgroup together.

Share your excitement with your child. Say, “I’ll have a chance to present my ideas,” or “I 44

might make a new friend.” Don’t be afraid to mention coming events that concern you, but focus on potential joys, rather than fears of the unknown.

Make a mantra

Remember The Little Engine That Could? He puffed faster and harder saying “I-think-I-can, I-think-I-can” until he succeeded. What phrase motivates your family in challenging times? Inject some humor and say your slogan together when times are tough (you’re climbing a big hill, walking a long way, or stuck in slow traffic). You’ll end up laughing about how silly you all look and show your child you’re in this together. Social support boosts optimism.

Take action

Try new things – even scary ones. Go someplace new. Cook and eat a new food for dinner. When you meet someone new, be the first to introduce yourself. Discuss with your child the benefits of openness to new experiences. If the new food tastes icky or the new park is less fun than the old one, focus on what you learned. Perhaps say, “Now we know how much we like Advertising: 251-304-1200

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Bright Side Books for Kids

Preschool: When Pigs Fly (by Valerie Coulman, Lobster Press, 2003) Ralph, a determined cow who wants a bicycle triumphs over naysayers.

The Little Engine that Could (by Watty Piper, Grosset & Dunlap, 1978) A little blue train climbs a towering mountain others won’t attempt to deliver toys to good children.

Ages 4-8: Little Liam Eagle (by Nancy McGrath, BookSurge Publishing, 2008) A young eagle bravely soars past his fears with his parents’ encouragement.

Stitches (by Kevin Morrison, Ambassador Books, 2003) Stitches, a baseball, dreams of the big leagues – but a stitching defect sends him down another path to his dreams.

Ages 9-12: Because of Winn Dixie (by Kate DiCamillo, Candlewick, 2000) Ten-year-old Opal overcomes sadness and makes new and unusual friends because of a big, ugly dog named Winn Dixie.

Dare to Dream! 25 Extraordinary Lives (by Sandra McLeod Humphreys, Prometheus Books, 2005) Biographical sketches of famous artists, athletes, thinkers and inventors inspire kids to persist in the face of adversity. the slide at our park,” or “Wow, that tasted yucky! But it will make us strong and healthy.”

Change your child’s explanations for adversity

Be a skill-builder

Kids’ skills develop incrementally.

Read a book or watch a video together that teaches a skill your child wants to develop.

Encourage him to ask an expert for advice, if you know one. Practice the skill in a simple way then move up to bigger challenges. Reinforce the idea that your child can learn to do just about anything.

Recognize good when it happens

Some emotion researchers believe we are genetically programmed to pay more attention to bad news than good – learning from bad news helps us survive dangerous situations. But focusing on what’s wrong diminishes all that is going right. Before bed, play the “three good things” game. Both you and your child list three good things that happened today and describe how you felt about them.

You may be inspired to list three good things you anticipate tomorrow, too.

An optimistic attitude encourages positive action. By encouraging an upbeat approach, you give your child the key to a healthier, happier, more productive life.

Optimists’ dedicated, persistent action can change the world for the better, and I believe our kids will do just that.

Heidi Smith Luedtke, PhD is a personality psychologist and mom of two. Get more psychology lessons for life at heidiluedtke.com/blog.

Even for optimists, things don’t always turn out great. What matters is how kids make sense of undesirable outcomes. Move from global, personal evaluations to more specific, situational ones. For instance, “I failed the test because I’m dumb and I’ll never be good at math” is pessimistic, but “I failed because I didn’t understand the problems and need more practice” allows active coping. To help your child make the switch, ask guiding questions, such as “What other explanations can you think of?” and “What can you do differently next time?”

Focus on improvement

Optimists know getting better is a process. Encourage your child to adopt this approach by commenting on his improvement, not just the outcome. Say “You really improved your sprint from the starting line” or “Your spelling has really improved since the rough draft” rather than focusing on his place in the contest or grade on the report.

Follow progress visually using a simple chart. Then, when challenges arise you can point out how far he’s come and encourage persistence.

Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

The holiday tradition continues as Bellingrath Gardens and Home celebrates Magic Christmas in Lights.

You can take a trip to the North Pole at this year’s Magic Christmas in Lights! Polar Bear Square, Bellingrath’s new scene, is located at the Summer House just after the Underwater Garden and will feature polar bears and an igloo in a light snowfall. Like all of the scenes in Magic Christmas in Lights, this scene was designed “in-house” and all of the set pieces have been fabricated and lit by the Garden’s staff.The 2012 edition of Magic Christmas in Lights will open on Friday, November 23rd and run through December 31st. The show will be closed on December 25th . Guests may visit the Gardens during the day from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Each evening from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. guests may stroll through the Gardens to see over 3 million sparkling lights in nearly 1,000 displays throughout the 65 acre estate. You will not want to miss seeing the Bellingrath Museum Home decorated in its holiday finery. The Magnolia Café will be serving lunch and dinner throughout the show. The Bellingrath Gift Shop will be loaded with fantastic holiday decorations, ornaments and gifts. Holiday music will be provided by local performing groups during the week. Members of the Friends of Bellingrath may use their annual membership cards for admission during Magic Christmas in Lights. For those that are not members, tickets can be purchased at Bellingrath Gardens and Home, The Urban Emporium or Regions Bank. You may also pre-purchase your tickets on-line at www.bellingrath.org. Online tickets must be purchased at least one day before your visit and are good for the entire show. Please bring a copy of your receipt to expedite your entrance into the Gardens.

Tickets are also available at participating Regions Banks, the Urban Emporium and at the door during regular hours of operation. During our busiest nights, we will have a special entrance for members and those that have prepurchased tickets. For more information, please check our website at www.bellingrath.org.

2012

Victorian Ornament Workshop at the Ben May Main Library

Pump It Up Fall and Holiday Fun

November – December Pump It Up has fall open play on Monday & Friday mornings from 10am-12pm for $6 plus tax/child.

Holiday Open Play sessions from 10am-2pm for $8 plus tax/child on Fri, Nov 23rd for Thanksgiving Open Play; Christmas Eve; Wednesday, December 26; Friday, December 28th, Monday, December 31st; Wednesday, January 2nd; and Friday, January 3rd . Visit http://www. pumpitupparty.com/al/mobile/home-p1q36.htm for more information and dates or call (251) 342-3940.

Activities at Bel Air Mall

November – December Santa will be here Nov. 10 – Dec. 24 (Monday-Thursday from 10:00am-8:00pm; Fri-Sat 10:00am-9:00pm; Sunday 12:00pm-close). Join us on December 2 for Paws & Claus – Pet photos with Santa. Photos begin at 7:30pm near the main entrance of Bel Air Mall. December 12 – 15, Sounds of the Season – Various local music groups will perform at Bel Air Mall in front of Gap.

Outdoor Cascading Mum Display at Bellingrath Gardens and Home

Through November 22 Hundreds of colorful four-foot long cascades will be displayed on bridges and balconies, in baskets and containers through the Gardens. Guests will also enjoy the columns of mums and thousands of mums in the flower

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

beds in the fall colors of yellow, red, bronze, orange and white. The Great Lawn’s dramatic border will be a feast for the eyes. Bellingrath’s Mum show is one of the grandest in the country. All of the cascades are grown at Bellingrath. Moving the cascades into the gardens is one of the most spectacular horticultural events of the year. It takes over nine months to grow a single crop – a true labor of love by Bellingrath’s expert growers. For more information call 1-800-247-8420 or visit www. bellingrath.org

Wales West Arctic Express

Friday, November 23 – December 24 All aboard! The Arctic Express at Wales West steams up Fri, Nov. 23rd and runs through Dec. 24th, Christmas Eve, 2012. Ride a real steam train to the North Pole, visit with Santa, take pictures, and children receive a free toy! Enjoy 1,000,000 plus lights, free refreshments, miniature train ride, and bouncer/inflatable. Also available for a small fee are the Snowball Cannon, Petting Zoo, Pony Ride, Candy Cane Express, Cafe and Gift Shop with lots of Thomas items. Hours: Fridays, 4 - 9 PM, Sat’s and Sun’s, 3 - 9 PM. Starting December 14th, open nightly 4 - 9 PM. Tickets may be purchased at the railroad for $12 per person plus tax, children 13 months and under, free. For information call 1-888-569-5337. www.waleswest.com and facebook/waleswest.

Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens

November 23 - December 31 (closed December 25th)

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Saturday, November 24 Children ages 6 and up are invited to make lovely Victorian ornaments to decorate our children’s holiday tree and to take home. The time for this workshop is 10:00am11:00am. Space is limited so registration is encouraged.

Groups must register. Please call the Children’s Department at 208-7086 for more information or to register.

Lights of Love Tree Lighting at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital

Tuesday, November 27 Three organizations dedicated to the care of children and families are celebrating the excitement and wonder of this holiday season! 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 the University of South Alabama Chorale, the Spanish Fort Community Kids Choir and the Baker’s Dozen from Baker High School.

Visitors can enjoy cookies and cocoa while strolling the grounds of the beautiful Geri Moulton Children’s Park that forms the entrance to Children’s & Women’s. Parking will be available at the nearby USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. For more information, please call 415-1636 or e-mail cwhdevelop@usouthal.edu.

Grand Bay Country Christmas and Parade

Friday, November 30-Saturday, December 1 On Friday, November 30 – enjoy Business open house, entertainment and arts & crafts from 3:00pm-8:00pm in the center of town. The lighting of the Christmas Tree with Santa will be at 7:00pm. On Saturday – enjoy entertainment, arts & crafts from 12:00pm-8:00pm. The Christmas Parade starts at 7:00pm. For more information, please visit www.grandbayonline.com.

Advertising: 251-304-1200

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Christmas Spectacular Concert

Friday, November 30 – Sunday, December 2 The University of Mobile Center for the Performing Arts will celebrate the season with performances of the Christmas Spectacular program at Dauphin Way Baptist Church (3661 Dauphin St) Admission is Free but Tickets are Required! Free tickets are available at the University of Mobile or Dauphin Way Baptist Church. For more information contact the CPA office at 251-442-2420 or visit www.umobile.edu.

Holiday Sales at Mobile Botanical Gardens

Friday, November 30 – Saturday, December 1 Celebrate a “Citrus Christmas “Through Dec. 1. Decorate for the season with poinsettias, wrapped citrus and holiday plants plus fresh greenery and decorations by the Mobile County Master Gardeners. Enjoy a variety of citrus treats and learn more about our fabulous local citrus.

Friday 9-4 , Saturday 9 -2. Location- Mobile Botanical Gardens at 5151 Museum Dr. For more information, please visit http://www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org.

10th Annual Christmas Spectacular presented by the University of Mobile

Friday, November 30 through Sunday, December 2 Christmas Spectacular will be performed at Dauphin Way Baptist Church on Dauphin Street in Mobile on Friday, Nov. 30 through Sunday, Dec. 2 at 6:45 p.m. A ticketed dress rehearsal is also scheduled for Thursday, Nov 29 at 6:45 p.m. People may still attend the performances without a ticket, but those who have tickets will be seated first. At present, no more tickets are available for Friday and Saturday performances. Once tickets for the Sunday performance are distributed, tickets will be available for the dress rehearsal on Thursday. The annual event is a celebration of Christmas that includes more than 300 students and faculty from the UMobile School of Music and School of Worship Leadership. Presentations of traditional and contemporary sacred and secular Christ-

mas music will be the focus of the program. Tickets are free and are available by emailing mbennett@umobile. edu or calling the University of Mobile at 251.442.2420.

For more information about the University of Mobile, visit the website at www.umobile.edu or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Santa’s Holiday Workshop at Cookies by Design

Saturdays in December 855 Hillcrest Road, Mobile (251) 461-0900 Scheduling appointments on Fridays and Saturdays in December. Your children will be able to decorate three Christmas Sugar Cookies to take home and write a letter to Santa that we will deliver for them. All this for only $10 at Santa’a Holiday Workshop! Santa’s Holiday Workshop is also available for field trips.

Christmas Piano Camps and Open House at Broussards

December December 1st (Saturday) 9-11, Santa’s Piano Workshop (Ages 5 - 16) *Children will learn to play their favorite Santa and Christmas songs on the piano. The workshop is for beginners. $30 per student. Call 344-8856 December 1st (Saturday) Christmas Open House 10-5 (Free to Everyone)- Join us for Christmas cheer, refreshments, and performances all day, plus 1 pm performance by our local Steinway Artist, Dr. Bob Holm of USA. December 2nd (Sunday) begins Santa’s Piano Workshop for Adults-Adult Group lessons to learn your favorite holiday songs. (Sundays and evenings) $30 for group lessons/private lessons available. Call 344-8856 for reservations.

December 8th (Saturday) 9-11 Do you hear what I hear?

Piano Workshop (Age 5-16)-Children will learn to play their favorite Santa and Christmas songs on the piano.

The workshop is for beginners. $30 per student. Call 344-8856 for reservations.

December 8th (Saturday) 1-4 Jingle Bell Piano Workshop (Age 6-96) at Azalea City Center of the ArtsLearn to play Jingle Bells and other Holiday favorites on the piano. The workshop is for beginners. Pre-register by Dec 5th for $25 /$35 at the door. Call 454-6591.

December 18 (Tues) Christmas Sing A Long with Daniel Driskell 6:30 (Free) Join us for music, singing, holiday cheer, and refreshments.

Satsuma’s Annual Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 1 11:00 a.m. Please visit http://www.cityofsatsuma.com for more information.

Breakfast With Santa – Tillman’s Corner

Saturday, December 1 The Breakfast with Santa event in Tillman’s Corner will take place from 8:00-9:00am. Santa will be there for pictures. Parents feel free to bring your camera. The location for the breakfast is at Tillman’s Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Rd. There will also be a photographer on site to take pictures that will be available on our web site-Tillmanscornerchamber. com. Immediately following breakfast the parade will begin at 10:00 AM. Children under 12 eat FREE/ $5.00 for adult. For more information, visit our website www. tillmanscornerchamber.com.

Mobile Museum of Art Holiday Open House

Saturday, December 1 Mobile Museum of Art is hosting a family friendly Holiday Open House from 1:00pm – 7:00pm. Join us for holiday music, refreshments, kids activities and museum store discounts. 4850 Museum Drive, 251-208-5200

Tillman’s Corner Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 1 The Tillman’s Corner Chamber of Commerce’s annual

Real Train Ride to the North Pole!

UAL ANN h t 8

Aboard! l l A

NOV. 23rd - DEC. 24th Fridays 4 till 9PM Saturdays & Sundays 3 till 9PM

BEGINNING DEC. 14th (thru Dec. 24th)

12

$

OPEN DAILY 4 till 9PM

PER PERSON plus tax

Includes Mini Train Ride, Santa Visit with a FREE TOY, Over A Million Lights To Enjoy, Refreshments & Inflatable Bouncer!

SNOWBALL CANNON • PONY RIDE Also... CAFE & GIFT SHOP • PETTING ZOO for a slight fee

Hot Cocoa, Cookie & Candy Cane!

County Road 9 near Silverhill (outside of Fairhope)

888-569-5337 1.2 miles south of Co. Rd. 48, or 2.5 miles north of Co. Rd. 32

Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

Meet SANTA and get a FREE

Wooden Train or Train Whistle!

RIDE

the all new CANDY CANE EXPRESS

WALES WEST 13670 Smiley St. LIGHT RAILWAY Wales West does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin or sex.

47

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

Christmas Parade is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Parade lineup begins at 8:00 a.m. at W.C. Griggs Elementary School on Three Notch Road in Tillman’s Corner. If you have any questions regarding the parade, please contact the Tillman’s Corner Community Center at 251-6662488.

Mobile’s Singing Children Christmas Concerts

Saturday, December 1 & Saturday, December 8 Mobile’s Singing Children presents “Believe” a Holiday Concert on Saturday, December 1st at 7:00pm at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. (2 South Claiborne Street). Join us on December 8th for an evening of John Rutter featuring Mobile’s Singing Children Concert Choir & Katie Ott, Guest Harpist. This event takes place at St. Mary’s Catholic Church at 1453 Old Shell Road at 7:00 pm. Suggested donation: $10person/$25 per family.

For more information, please visit http://mobilesingingchildren.org.

St. Luke’s Christmas Market

Saturday, December 1 St. Luke’s Episcopal School Early Childhood and Lower School Campus, 3975 Japoncia Lane. Join us on the Japonica Campus for our newest event from 9:00 until 5:00 PM. Plans include traditional “European Christmas Market” foods (Sausages, Kinderpunsch, Dresden Stollen, hot chocolate, and other specialties) and vendors with arts and crafts, baked goods, household merchandise, etc. We are currently accepting registration for booth space ($25 or $50) so please spread the word! Childcare will be available with children’s Christmas projects and entertainment. We’d love to have you displaying, selling, shopping or eating! For more information regarding booths, or to volunteer please contact Dorothee Ehrhardt (dehrhardt661@att.net) or Florencia Holt (pischekind@ aol.com).

Christmas at Oakleigh

Saturday, December 1 – Sunday, December 2 Join the Historic Mobile Preservation Society for this Mobile tradition as we open the doors of Oakleigh for the holiday season. See how the Christmas season was celebrated in Mobile during the 1850s. Admission includes children’s activities, entertainment, refreshments and a tour of the Oakleigh Historic Complex. Admission is $10 per person, Times- Saturday -10:00am-4:00pm and Sunday-1:00pm-4:00pm ,Location- Oakleigh Historic Complex 350 Oakleigh Place. Saturday night also includes the Candlelight at Oakleigh event. For more information, please visit http://www.historicmobile.org or call (251) 432-6161.

Mobile Symphony presents Home for the Holidays

Saturday, December 1 – Sunday, December 2 Mobile’s favorite holiday tradition, this concert embraces all the spirit of the holidays and packs it into an unforgettable concert featuring music you know and love. From Sweden to Jamaica, this year’s program will showcase holiday traditions from around the globe. There is truly no place like Home for the Holidays. Times: 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, 2:30 p.m. on Sunday For more information, please visit www.mobilesymphony.org

Christmas – Richards DAR House

Saturday, December 1 – Sunday December 2 Please mark your calendars for “An 1860s Christmas” on December 1st and 2nd. The house will be decorated in an elegant Victorian Mobile style. Presale tickets will be available soon for a reduced rate. For more information, please visit www.richardsdarhouse.com.

28th Annual “Christmas through the Ages” at Fort Gaines

Saturday, December 1 Experience a Christmas of days gone by. A living his-

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

tory day for the whole family. Come join the soldiers and their families as they celebrate Christmas from the past. Soldiers from 1700’s - 1900’s, along with a potter and a blacksmith. The time for this event is from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Where: Historic Fort Gaines. For more information, please call 251-861-6992 or visit www. dauphinisland.org.

preformed at 7:30pm at The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.Featuring works by Stephen Caracciolo, Matthew Culloton, Dan Forrest, Philip Stopford, Eric Whitacre, Louis F. Daniel, and others. All donations at the door will go to Catholic Social Services.

For more information, please visit www.gloriadeichorale. org/concertinfo.html.

Dauphin Island Christmas Parade

Christmas on the Hill

Saturday, December 1 The 2012 Dauphin Island Christmas parade will be held at 2:00pm. For more information, please visit www. townofdauphinisland.org.

Semmes Christmas Tree Lighting

Saturday, December 1 The Friends of Semmes will be putting on the Christmas Tree Lighting on December the 1st at Semmes Community Center starting at 4:30. We will have Santa available to take pictures with ... local school children will be singing and we will be giving away Hot Chocolate, coffee and cookies.

Christmas on the River Parade

Saturday, December 1 Grand Mariner Marina on Dog River at the Alba Fishing and Hunting Club--Alabama’s Official Tall Ship, the Joshua, will lead festive decorated boats down Dog River in Mobile’s oldest boat parade. The boats circle and pass Dog River Bridge as treats are thrown to the cheering crowd. Dusk-8 p.m. For more information, please visit www.grandmarinermarina.com.

Elf Magic Event

Sunday, December 2 Come join us for a fun family event at The Gilded Nest.

Elf Magic Elves will be on sale and these elves are friends. There are a myriad of accessory items available for the elves and each one comes with an authentic snowflake on its heart applied by Santa himself. We will have Santa, coloring pages for the kids, art & crafts, & a mailbox (will be available for kids and parents through the Christmas Season) to leave letters for Santa (the store elves, Jingle and Jangle, will deliver letters to Santa each night) and lots more! We will be drawing for a Giant Elf and a Nativity set in addition to other door prizes. Tickets will be limited and available at The Gilded Nest at 2054 Government Street. This event takes place on Sunday, December 2 from 11:00am-2:00pm. For more information, please come by the shop or call (251) 476-1555.

Mobile Museum of Art Holiday Open House

Sunday, December 2 Mobile Museum of Art is hosting a family friendly Holiday Open House from 1:00pm – 4:00pm. Join us for holiday music, refreshments, kids activities and museum store discounts. 4850 Museum Drive, Mobile, 251-208-5200.

Bragg-Mitchell Open House

Sunday, December 2 See the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion all dressed up for the holidays. This Christmas Open House is from 1:00pm4:00pm. For information, please www.braggmitchellmansion.com

Bella Voce Concert

Sunday, December 2 A classical concert of familiar and beloved songs of the Christmas season by Mobile’s premiere women’s chorus; conductor: Dr Thomas Rowell. 4 PM. St Paul’s Episcopal Church (4051 Old Shell Rd) Free, but donations welcome. For more information, please contact 251-4148194 or visit http://bellavoceofmobile.org

Gloria Dei Chorale Christmas Concert

Sunday, December 2 Yuletide Reflections: Holy Mother, Holy Child will be

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Sunday, December 2 Christmas on the Hill is the annual family event created and promoted by the Spring Hill Merchants Association and the individual merchants of the Spring Hill area. It is on Sunday, December 8 from 1:00pm-5:00pm. Shopkeepers will once again open their doors with special store hours, holiday refreshments, sleigh rides and photos with Santa, holiday music and a variety of children’s activities as well as sales and special merchandise promotions. Plus, the afternoon will feature an “Art Walk” with dozens of artists displaying their work in front of Spring Hill merchants’ shops. Capping the day’s activities will be a family-friendly holiday movie shown at 5:30 p.m.

The movie will be free to the public. For additional information, visit the “Spring Hill Merchants Association” on Facebook.

Bragg-Mitchell Open House

Sunday, December 2 The Holiday Season is right around the corner and that means its time for the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion’s annual Christmas Open House fundraiser. This year, guests are invited to make their Christmas a Southern Christmas and spend an afternoon at the historic antebellum mansion on Sunday, December 2, from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. Guests are invited to tour the mansion with traditional decorations adorning each room. Enjoy homemade refreshments, sleigh rides and children’s storytelling as seasonal and sacred music fill the winter air. Admission for the Open House is $8 for adults and $5 for children. All proceeds from the event help support the continued preservation of the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion . Tickets may be purchased through www.brownpapertickets.com. For more information, please visit www.braggmitchellmansion.com.

Christmas Sip and See at the Bragg Mitchell

Tuesday, December 4 Please join us, Tuesday, December 4, for our First Annual Christmas Sip and See. The mansion, dressed in traditional holiday decor, welcomes you to experience the sights and scents of the Holiday Season. Enjoy a lavish Southern-style coffee in the morning, or tea in the afternoon, in our beautiful Turn-of-the-Century tearoom or our cheery Veranda tearoom. The Christmas Sip and See is scheduled for Tuesday, December 4, for coffee at 10:00am or for tea at 2:00pm. Admission for this fundraiser event is $12 and includes a tour of the house.

All proceeds from this event help support the continued preservation of the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion. For more information on the Christmas Sip and See, please call 251-471-6364 or visit our website at www.braggmitchellmansion.com.

Home for the Holidays at Bronstein’s

Tuesday, December 4 Pop-up holiday shop where local artists, jewelers, fashion boutiques and more will set up shop in the showroom for an afternoon of holiday gift shopping, benefiting the Bay Area Food Bank. This event takes place from 4:00pm-6:00pm.”Home for the Holidays” will showcase Mobile’s great talent and the unique finds and services the city has to offer--all while allowing shoppers to get started on gift shopping for the holidays. Bronstein’s is partnering with the Bay Area Food Bank to join the fight against hunger. Guests are invited to bring canned goods/ non-perishables--all of which will be donated to the Bay Area Food Bank--and will entered in the drawing to win incredible prizes from each of the vendors. Location –

Advertising: 251-304-1200

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Bronstein’s Fine Furniture at 458 Azalea road. For more information, visit our Facebook page.

University of South Alabama Holiday Concert

Tuesday, December 4 USA Concert Choir and University Chorale Holiday Choral Concert will take place at 7:30 pm at the USA Laidlaw Performing Arts Center. Laura Moore, conductor. Admission prices: $5 USA students. $8 General Admission. Visit www.southalabama.edu/music

“Babes in Toyland”

Jolly good, elf-endorsed, merry-making at its finest.

Be of good cheer! Give them what they really want this year— a box full of Gigi’s deliciously scrumptious cupcakes, cheesecakes and mini cupcakes. Let the merriment begin!

Thursday, December 6 – Friday, December 7 The Playhouse in the Park presents the Victor Herbert classic musical suitable for all ages! See all your favorite storybook characters come to life in a lavish production of this holiday favorite. Staged at the historic Saenger theatre, a cast of 100 will delight audiences with singing, dancing, and colorful costumes. The public show is Friday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m. and the SchoolFest performances are December 6 & 7 at 9:00 and 11:00 a.m.

Book Early! For more information, please visit www. mobilepip.org or call 251-602-0630.

VOTED Mobile’s

BEST

Cupcakes for 2012

North Pole Stroll

Friday, December 7 This free, family fun in downtown Mobile event takes place from 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. on Royal Street in Downtown Mobile. Some events planned are: Visit Santa, Ride the Stroll Train, See the Grinch at Whoville, Write letters to Santa, See snow falling on Royal Street & Take photos inside a GIANT snow globe. More details available on our website: www. downtownmobile.org.

Mobile Ballet’s The Nutcracker

Saturday, December 8-Sunday, December 9 Mobile Ballet presents The Nutcracker, a family holiday classic. 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 performances are 2:30pm and 7:30pm, and Sunday’s performance is at 2:30pm. Please call 251342-2241 for more information or to order tickets.

Semmes 12th Annual Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 8 Semmes 12th annual Christmas Parade will be on December the 8th organized by the Friends of Semmes. Parade will start at 10:00 am on Wulff Road & Nursery Road. Parade applications can be found on our Web site at www.friendsofsemmes.org or at Century Bank in Semmes. Visit www.friendsofsemmes.org.

4th Annual Semmes Christmas Tour of Homes & Tasting Tour

Saturday, December 8 Semmes Woman’s Club is proud to present the 4th Annual Semmes Christmas Tour of Homes & Tasting Tour on Sat. Dec. 8th. Guests will celebrate the season in style by touring residential homes decorated beautifully for the holidays. The Tasting Tour will feature traditional Southern fare supplied from local, partner restaurants. The Tour of Homes is scheduled from 3pm-7pm while the Taste of Semmes will be offered from 3pm - 5pm. For more information, please contact Caresse Fincher at 251.656.1777 or Diane Moore at 251.645.9176. You can also visit Semmes Woman’s Club on Facebook.

Saraland Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 8 Join us for the 2012 Saraland Christmas Parade.

The parade starts at 12:00pm at Adams Middle School. Please visit www. saralandcoc.com for more information.

Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

Class Parties • Teacher Gifts • Office Parties Business Meetings • Anniversaries • Birthdays �

Holiday Gatherings • Wedding Receptions Engagements • Catering • Baby Showers

Gigi’s Cupcakes of Mobile • Pinebrook Shopping Center • 273 S. McGregor Ave. • Mobile, AL 36608 Tel: (251) 316-0008 • Mon-Sat: 10am-7pm; Sun: Closed • : GigisCupcakesMobileAlabama

Saint Mary Parish Second Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

December 8 Join St. Mary Parish for the second annual Christmas Tree Lighting from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. on the campus of St. Mary Catholic School. All are invited to the 4 p.m. Vigil Mass beforehand in St. Mary Catholic Church. The tree will be decorated with handmade ornaments designed by St. Mary Catholic School students. Christmas Carols will also be sung by the students who welcome visitors to join in! St. Mary will welcome Santa and the Lafayette Street Fire Station to help with the tree lighting. The event features hot chocolate and cookies and vendors including Mellow Mushroom Pizza, and Smokin’ Gringos.

All children are invited to bring their wish lists for Santa’s express mailbox! For more information, contact Ashleigh O’Dowd, 689-6738 or awo1209@ comcast.net. The event will be held on the campus

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of St. Mary Catholic School located at 107 N. Lafayette Street at the corner of Old Shell Road and Lafayette Street across from McGill-Toolen Catholic High School in the Dauphin Way Historic District.

Log on to www.stmarymobile.org for all upcoming events at St. Mary Parish.

Gingerbread House Workshop Stories & Songs Too! At the Library

Saturday, December 8 Enjoy stories like The Gingerbread Man and then make Gingerbread houses out of frosting, candy and graham crackers. This activity is for children ages 5 - 8. Space is limited, so registration is required.

This event takes place at Ben May Main Library at 10:00am-11:00am. For more information or to register please call the Children’s Department at 208-7086. This event also takes place at the Moorer/

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

Springhill Branch at 10:30 am. For more information or to register please call 470-7770 or email mlmref@ mplonline.org.

Centre for the Living Arts – Light Bulb Ornaments and/or Stained Glass Lanterns at the Library

Tuesday, December 11 Instructors from the Centre for the Living Arts will help children create beautiful art projects inspired by The Memory Project and themes associated with the exhibits.Today’s projects are “Light Bulb Ornaments and/or Stained Glass Lanterns.” Ages 3-5 starts at 10:00 am and Ages 6-13 is at 3:30. These classes take place at the West Regional Branch of the Library. Space and materials are limited. For more information or to register, please call the Children’s Department at 340-8571.

Program will be held in the Meeting Room.

“Peter and the Wolf” by the Playhouse Puppets

Wednesday, December 12 - Friday, December 14; Tuesday, December 18-Thursday, December 20 The Playhouse Puppets will present the marionette classic “Peter and the Wolf” at the Playhouse-in-the-Park on December 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20 at 9:00, 10:00, and 11:00 am. The show is a faithful retelling of the musical story by Sergei Prokofiev and features hand-carved marionettes, hand puppets, and shadow puppets. The Playhouse Puppets have been performing since 1987 and have toured extensively throughout the southeast.

The performance is 45 minutes long and includes a full performance and an explanation and demonstration on music and movement. This is a perfect introduction to the performing arts, and is suitable for K4 through 5th grade. Tickets are $5.00, with no charge for teachers.

This event is very popular! For more information, please visit www.mobilepip.org or call 251-602-0630.

are $10 for adults, $8 for teens, and $5 for kids. Call Chris Paragone at 251-510-1808 for more details!

Christmas Luncheon and Bizarre at Via!

Mobile County Birthday Bash

Friday, December 14 Have Christmas Dinner and do all your Christmas Shopping at the Via Christmas Bazaar. The Via Christmas Bazaar will feature local artists, arts and crafts, and gifts for everyone. This event takes places from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm (lunch at 12:00pm) at Arlene F. Mitchell Center, 1717 Dauphin Street. The Bazaar is free admission and lunch is $5.

Christmas Movies at the Saenger

Friday, December 14 – Sunday, December 16 Come join us for Christmas Movies playing at the Saenger. The price of admission is $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for Kids and Seniors. On Friday – It’s a Wonderful Life will be showing at 7:30 pm. On Saturday, White Christmas will be showing at 3:00 pm. On Sunday – Elf will be playing at 3:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased through the Saenger Theatre Box Office at 250 Conti Street, 251-208-5600. For more information, please visit www.centreforthelivingarts.com.

Sunny Side presents Best Christmas Pageant Ever Play

December 14 through 16 Drama Camp Productions & Sunny Side Theater present “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Thursday - Saturday, December 14-16 at 7:00 p.m. at the Moorer Performing Arts Center, 1400 University Boulevard. The Herdmans are the worst kids in the whole history of the world. And now they are invading the Christmas pageant at the local church! Join us for this hilarious, heartwarming show. Tickets

Saturday, December 15 Mobile County has 200 reasons to celebrate. On December 18, 1812, Mobile County was created by proclamation of the governor of what was then the Mississippi Territory. On December 15, 2012 the Bicentennial Commission will celebrate this great achievement with fun and exploration at the Alabama Cruise Terminal, 201 S. Water Street, from noon to 6pm. Come Join the Celebration! Mobile County Main Street – Local Chambers of Commerce and historic societies will showcase of the county’s 11 municipalities and other communities which make up Mobile County. Learn about their history and special qualities.Mobile County Market Place – Showcase of unique hometown products, services, businesses and entrepreneurs of Mobile County. Learn about the creative ability of Mobile County artisans and purchase gifts for the Holiday. Mobile County Cultural and Community Center – History, art, culture, music, science, and civic involvement are featured in exhibits and displays from the Mobile Museum of Art, the History Museum of Mobile, the Centre for the Living Arts, The Gulf Coast Exploreum, the Mobile African American Archives, the Mobile County Public Library, Mobile Opera, Mobile Symphony, The Mobile National Estuary, The Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Mobile Botanical Gardens, Mobile Carnival Museum, the Mobile Bay Keepers and many more.Mobile County Family and Children’s Village – Tactile, interactive activities for families and children including storytelling, music, poetry and many other educational and entertaining events. Be a part of Mobile County history by signing the scroll for the time capsule. Visit with Santa and write him a letter so he remembers all of your Christmas wants.

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Saturday, December 15 Join us as we celebrate Christmas in Dawes! The Parade will begin at 10am. Parade route is approximately 1.8 miles starting at Living Word Church, North on Dawes, East on Cottage Hill Road and ending at Winn Dixie parking lot on the corner of Cottage Hill and Schillinger.

Mobile Annual Christmas & Holiday Parade and Christmas Market

Saturday, December 15 It’s a holiday tradition for the entire family! Come join us for our Holiday Market on the square at Cathedral Square from 10:00 am until 3:00pm. The market will feature fresh fruits, veggies, breads, pasta and fresh baked goods for your holiday party. Also arts and crafts from local artists for the shopper that likes to give hand-crafted items. Also for the shopper to look for the last minute gifts. And watch the parade go by. Come join us at 1:30 for all the festivities in and around our Annual Christmas & Holiday Parade. Bring the little ones and enjoy free kids activities in Bienville Square both before and after the parade between 12:30-3:00pm. For route and more information, please call 208-1554 or 208-1550.

Saturday, December 15 Singing Christmas Carols is fun. Biking house to house to do it is funner. Join us as we bring a bit of holiday cheer to the midtown area. Awards for Best Costume and Fanciest Bike Decoration. This event takes place at Cream and Sugar at 351-B George Street. For more information, visit our facebook page at www.facebook.com/events/453229414701857.

The Mobile Pops presents “Sounds of the Season”

Monday, December 17 The Mobile Pops presents “Sounds of the Season on December 17th at 7:00 pm. This event takes place at Davidson High School Auditorium at 3900 Pleasant Valley Road. This concert is free and open to the public. For more information, please visit www. mobilepopsband.com.

City of Spanish Fort’s Reading of “Twas’ the Night before Christmas”

Thursday, December 20 Cuddle up by the fireplace and join Santa as he reads “Twas’ the Night before Christmas.” Stick around after the reading for free pictures with Santa. This takes place at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center at 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard, Spanish Fort. For more information, please visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com or call 251-625-0814.

Exploreum’s Winter Camps

science based camps that Mobile has to offer. Each of the four themed Winter Camps is a full day adventure that begins at 8:30 and ends at 3:30.

Thursday, December 20– Land of the Misfit Toys Be one of Santa’s Little Helpers! Join the Exploreum as we build and tinker in our winter workshop.

Friday-December 21 – Science of the Holidays: Don’t stand under the mistletoe! Come explore the science behind the traditions of the holiday season!

Thursday, December 27- Winter Games- Loosen up your snowball throwing arm as we dive into the science of winter games.

Friday, December 28- Countdown to a New Year!

Join us for a science packed New Year’s Eve Blowout! Spaces are limited and parents must register their children by December 14. $40 for members/$50 for non-members for a single class.

Parents may register for all four of the day camps at a discounted rate of $150 for members/$190 for nonmembers. Please email education@exploreum.com or call 251-208-6849 to register!

New Year’s Eve Celebration

Monday, December 31 Moonpie over Mobile is back! With over 60,000 in attendance last year, this year’s New Year’s event will usher in the new year and the Mardi Gras season in grand style. Come and get a larger glimpse at the moonpie as it rises over the City in downtown Mobile. There will be live entertainment, activities for kids at local museums and a countdown to 2013 like no other.

Thursday, December 20, Friday, December 21, Thursday, December 27, Friday, December 28 Parents! Instill a love of Science in your children this winter by enrolling them in the most amazing,

Merry Christmas from

Mobile Bay Parents!

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Schools are asked to bring a Christmas tree ornament in school colors wishing Mobile County Happy 200th. Mobile County Community Stage – Showcase school, church and community choirs, dancers, oratorical presentations, barbershop quartet, Poetry Slam, Teen Ballroom Dancing, a laser light show, music from local artists. Mobile County Bicentennial Birthday Bash and finale – Rock with The Tip Tops Band as we sing Happy Birthday Mobile County and enjoy the largest birthday cake cupcake display from local bakers.

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

The Power of TOUCH

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Holding your child’s hand as you walk along the sidewalk or having your infant wrap his tiny fingers around yours during a feeding is an instant reminder of the connection you have with your child. Feeling a mixture of love, pride and admiration as you hold your baby, or when your toddler hugs you, parents are easily aware of how a simple touch can turn around a day or affect emotions.

How often do you find yourself instinctively grazing your child’s head as you pass by him playing? Do you find that stroking your baby’s head during a feeding or bath is a natural and subconscious act?

The Science of the Sense

It is commonly believed that animals can be soothed by stroking the crown Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

of their head and, in the wild, maternal primates have been observed calming their young by rubbing or patting their young.

Whether you realize it or not modeling the instinctive behavioral patterns found in animals of all shapes and sizes, touch is a powerful aspect in your child’s life and in the bond with your child.

One of the five senses, scientists explain the effect of touch on a release of endorphins triggered in the brain thought to be more powerful than the affects of drugs such as heroine and morphine. Health experts add that touch can often trigger an emotional response, or memory. “Holding a loved one’s hand can elicit the memory of a vacation, special moment, or favorite memory,” notes Personal Life Coach and Therapist, Susan Young of Naples, Florida.

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The Language of Touch

In addition to the scientific explanations, many believe there is a language associated with touch. Showing affection through a hug, encouragement or support by placing a hand on a shoulder, and a lighthearted tone by grazing a cheek during verbal communication, your touch is one of the most primitive means of communicating with your child.

“We’re always hugging, kissing and holding hands for no other reason than we’re within reach of each other!” says Eva Wosniak of Hunter, Alabama.

Using touch as a means to offer the gentle reminder that they’re within reach or in the room, mothers and fathers of toddlers find that touch provides them some comfort and reassurance as well. “Our son was born three months premature. When we finally got him home, it made us feel Advertising: 251-304-1200

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better to stroke his hand as he ate or to hug him for no reason,” shares Mary Andrews, a Montgomery mom of two.

babies and toddlers offers soothing and healing benefits as it strengthens the • Promotes infant relaxation and helps to debond between parent and crease stress for you and your baby. child. Many who practice • Relieves discomfort from constipation, gas, infant massage note that Holding Them Close their children seem to be Mother to three children and colic. more affectionate than ages, 1 ½, 4 and 6, Wosniak • Helps normalize muscle tone and improve many of their peers and are also carried her children in blood circulation. affectionate with siblings. a sling for much of the day Empowering parents to as a way to keep them close • Helps children sleep better connect and interact with and build her bond with • Stimulates brain development and their children on a level them. Using the opportunity improves sensory awareness. deeper than experienced in to consistently nurture them day to day routines, infant by kissing their tiny heads, • Promotes bonding and attachment. massage is an ancient tradismoothing their hair or gently tion in many cultures that grazing their cheek, mothers are emotional benefits to ‘wearing’ any allows parents to communicate with like Wosniak relish the closeness afforded infant or baby for as long as possible. their baby through touch and learn how from ‘wearing their baby’ using slings “An infant can gradually learn indepento interpret their baby’s responses to and wraps. “It was instinctive and natural dence from the feeling of being next to touch. to carry my children, not to let them cry, his mother or father as he learns to self and to soothe them with touch,” adds soothe and adjust to his surroundings,” Wosniak.

Additional Resources: Young adds, explaining the theory gainGiving your baby the chance to Infant Massage - A Loving Parent’s ing popularity that children require conslowly transition from womb to the noisy, sistent closeness during the first weeks Handbook by Vimala McClure hectic world, carrying him in a pouch or Healing Power of Touch (Paperback) by and months following their birth. wrap leaves a child feeling more conConsumer Guide editors tent and calm than if he was carried in a The Art of Massage Gina Roberts-Grey is a contributing writer. back carrier. Experts also believe there Applying massage for infants,

Benefits of Infant Massage

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

Family Calendar Ongoing

Bellingrath Gardens and Home Through Nov. 23. Outdoor Cascading Mum Display.

Regular Admission. See one of America’s largest outdoor display of chrysanthemums. Garden mums are featured in the floral borders, containers and terraces of the Gardens. See fantastic cascade mums on bridges, balconies and in baskets in the fall colors of red, yellow, bronze, orange and white throughout the Gardens.

Centre for the Living Arts The Memory Project is the first phase of the Centre for the Living Arts’ plan to create a national model for community building through the arts. Running through December 31, it involves a nine-month visual and performing arts program that examines the various intersections of individual and collective memory in the Gulf Coast and elsewhere. It will include a global to local exhibition of significant artists, as well as live music, film screenings, public forums and conversations, plus classes and workshops for all ages. Programming will be held at Space 301, the Saenger Theatre, and several offsite locations throughout the City of Mobile. Visit the link www.centreforthelivingarts.com/memory-project to learn about dates for specific events associated with the project. Mobile. For more info call (251) 208-5650.

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 more info call (251) 208-7658. www.mobile.org.

Gulf Coast Exploreum IMAX Born to Be Wild At Exploreum IMAX Theater September – January 5th. Documentary about the orphaned orangutans and elephants and the extraordinary people who rescue and raise them— saving endangered species one life at a time. 10 a.m., noon, 2 & 4 p.m. Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, JL Bedsole IMAX Theater (65 Government St) Adults/ $8.75; youth and seniors/ $7.25; children/$6.50. Members: adults/ $6.75; youth and seniors/ $5.75; children/ $5.25; group rates. Contact: 251-208-6880/ www. exploreum.com/ www.imax.com/borntobewild.

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 251-4334456, www.handsonsal.org.

History Museum of Mobile Up Up & Away. October 20, 2012 - March 3, 2013.

Comic book superheroes are a mirror on modern America. Superheroes represent the very best image of ourselves. Their worlds are purely fictional but their experiences and struggles echo our own reality.

Through superheroes we celebrate our triumphs and confront our fears. This is their story...”

Joe Jefferson Players Mobile. For information call (251) 471-1534. www.jjp.com.

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

November/December2012

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.

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 251-4602727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@childrensaid.org.

Azalea City Harmony Chorus of Sweet Adelines Meets/rehearses each Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Corner of Sage Ave. and Airport Blvd. For more info call 251-380-0579 or visit www. azaleacityharmony.com.

Mobile Bay Area La Leche League Meetings are the second Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. and the last Monday at 6:30 p.m. The nighttime meetings are especially geared towards expectant/new mothers and working mothers, but any pregnant or breastfeeding mother is welcome at either.

The number to call for the location is 251-689-2085.

We can also be found on Facebook at mobile bay area la leche league.

The Family Center of Mobile • Nurturing Parenting course Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-wk rotating series. Call to register.

• The Family Center Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. • Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 wks.

• Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, a new ”dads are important” course for dads, 12 wks.

• Thursdays: Controlling Ourselves Stress/Anger Management training, 4 wks. (one/month).

251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center

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classes. RFP classes require intake appt. IN ADVANCE. All classes are free and offer free childcare WITH 24HR RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. www.familycentermobile.org or www.Facebook.com/ FatherhoodProgramMobile.

The Family Center of Baldwin County opens in November at 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne, with Quenching the Father Thirst classes and case management services.

Please call Mobile office, 251-479-5700 for exact dates and other information.

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) 435-2000.

• 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 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

• Cancer Support Group Meets every fourth Tuesday of every month from 10-11 a.m.

• Gastric Band Support Meets every third Thursday of every month from 6-7 p.m.

• Gastric Bypass Support Meets every second Thursday of every month 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 251-6331987 for more information.

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Family Calendar 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 pre-register.

• 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 3407769 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 340-7769 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 591-8021. 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.

USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes for 2012: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1685. 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 The expectant mother and her support person (coach) can choose to attend class on Monday nights for three weeks or the all-day Saturday class. 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: $35. You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Next 3-week Series, 6:30-9 p.m., Mondays, Nov. 5 – Nov. 19. Next all-day Saturday class, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Nov.

Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

November/December2012

17 (continental breakfast and lunch served) • Childbirth in a Nutshell This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets first Tuesday from 6:30-9 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Fee: $5. Next classes meet Nov. 1 and Dec. 4.

• 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 and fourth Thursday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the hospital’s second-floor classroom. Fee: $5. Next classes meet Nov. 8 and Dec. 13.

• Infant Care, Safety and CPR This one-night class is designed for both expectant and new parents. Topics include preparing your home for the new baby, car seat safety and infant CPR instruction. Class meets from 6:30-9 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Fee: $5 per person. Next class is Dec. 11.

Registration Information: Payments are accepted by check, money order, cash and credit card. Make checks and money orders payable to USACW Education Department. 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.

Tuesday, November 20

Quenching the Father Thirst: What About the Children?

Class 2 of 12. See Classes & Meetings section-The Family Center for details.

Wednesday, November 21

Pre-K Studio at Space 301 – Hungry Caterpillars Children ages 3-5 will create their own hungry caterpillars after reading The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. Kids Studio will take place in the CLA Classroom from 11-12. Space 301 is located at 301 Conti Street. Admission is free for children. Call Brennan Gibson at 208 – 5658 or email cla.gibson@cityofmobile.org to sign up.

Thursday, November 22

Turkey Trot for Hope 5K and Fun Run The proceeds from the Run for Hope will benefit Camp Rap-A-Hope. The 5Krace starts at 8 a.m. and the Fun Run starts at 9 a.m. at Spanish Plaza Park (Downtown Mobile). For more information, please visit www.productionsbylittleredhen.com.

Emotional Intelligence: Techniques Planning a personal strategy, conflict resolution skills & problem solving. Controlling Ourselves Stress & Anger Mgmt class 4 of 4, Responsible Fatherhood Program. See Classes & Meetings section-The Family Center for details.

Friday, November 23

18th Annual Jewelry, Gem, and Mineral Show Rocks, Gems and Jewelry from around the World.

Admission $3, Children under 12 free with adult

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Three day show Friday, November 23 from 2-7 p.m., Saturday, November 24 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, November 25 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, please visit www.mobilerockandgem.com.

Maze featuring Frankie Beverly The Mobile Civic Center Arena welcomes Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, with Doug E. Fresh and El Debarge at 8 p.m.! Tickets prices: $30.50, $40, $45.50 and $55.50. Tickets are on sale at the Mobile Civic Center Box Office, by phone at 800-745-3000 or online at Ticketmaster.com.

Saturday, November 24

18th Annual Jewelry, Gem, and Mineral Show See November 23 for details.

Kids Studio at Space 301 – Hungry Caterpillars Children ages 6-12 will create their own hungry caterpillars after reading The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. Kids Studio will take place in the CLA Classroom from 11-12. Space 301 is located at 301 Conti Street. Admission is free for children. Call Brennan Gibson at 208 – 5658 or email cla.gibson@cityofmobile.org to sign up.

Sunday, November 25

18th Annual Jewelry, Gem, and Mineral Show See November 23 for details.

5 Rivers Sunday Matinee Come out and join us every Sunday for a free, family friendly film. The films play throughout the day.

This week we learn about the most varied and diverse backboned creatures on Earth in Life: Fish. . For more information, visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com or call 251-625-0814.

Monday, November 26

Together We Can Class 7 of 8 cooperative parenting course. See Classes & Meetings section-The Family Center for details.

Legally Blonde Auditions Audition for Legally Blonde and become part of the cast as Sunny Side Theater & the Azalea City Center For the Arts present the show for the first time in Mobile! 7 p.m. at the Azalea City Center For the Arts (63 Midtown Park E). Show dates: March 22 March 24, Grades 9 - 12, or 8th who have been in a show with us before are welcome to audition!

Tuesday, November 27

Quenching the Father Thirst: It Takes a Man to be a Dad Class 3 of 12. See Classes & Meetings section-The Family Center for details.

Lights of Love Holiday Celebration Join us as Santa Claus and Ronald McDonald usher in the holidays with hot chocolate, coffee, cookies, family activities and caroling. Location: Geri Multon Children’s Park. 6 p.m. For more information, please contact Adrienne Tate at 251-694-6873.

Legally Blonde Auditions See November 26 for more information

Wednesday, November 28 Pre-K Studio at Space 301 - Egg Carton Creations Children ages 3-5 and their parents will recycle egg cartons by transforming them into colorful creations.

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

Family Calendar Pre-K Studio will take place in the CLA Classroom from 11-12. The time for this class is 11 a.m. and admission is free for children. Space 301 is located at 301 Conti Street. Call Brennan Gibson at 208 – 5658 or email cla.gibson@cityofmobile.org to sign up.

Book Fair Fundraiser Springhill Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and Books Are Fun will hold a book and gift sale from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

There will be an exciting selection of books, games and gift items for both adults and children. This sale is open to the public and will be held in the Heart Center Lobby across from the front entrance of Springhill Memorial Hospital. This is just in time for Christmas Shopping.

Proceeds will be used for the Auxiliary’s community service. For more information on this sale or how to become a volunteer, contact Linda Reynolds, Director of Volunteer Services at 460-5223.

Thursday, November 29

Candlelight Christmas at Oakleigh Preview Party Historic Mobile Preservation Society will open the doors of the Oakleigh Mansion for a holiday sneak-peek during this festive Preview Party and Christmas Ornament Auction. Bid on Christmas Ornaments created by local artists while enjoying cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, entertainment and a tour of the Oakleigh Mansion dressed for the holiday season. Proceeds benefit HMPS and the Oakleigh Historic Complex. Cost-Tickets are $50 per couple and $30 per individual. Location- Oakleigh Historic Complex,350 Oakleigh Place from 6-9 p.m.

For more information, please visit http:// www.historicmobile.org.

The Mary Ellen Ward Art Guild Adult Painting Class This class meets every Thursday at noon until 3 at Semmes Public Library. This free class is offered for both novice and seasoned painters. 9150 Moffett Rd. Book Fair Fundraiser See November 28 for more information.

Saturday, December 1

Every Step Walk Come out for a morning of family fun!

Approximately 60,000 babies are born in Alabama each year. Unfortunately, they’re only screened for 44 out of 56 recommended diseases and are not screened for Krabbe Leukodystrophy. If babies are screened for Krabbe Disease at birth, they have the opportunity for a potential life saving treatment through a cord blood transplant. Walk the Every Step Walk and enjoy tons of fun activities for the kids and family! Registration is only $10. Register online www.huntershope.org/everystepmobileal. HearinChandler YMCA. 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon.

2012 Jingle Bell Run/Walk – Daphne Get in the spirit this holiday season at the Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis®.

Be one of the thousands of runners and walkers who hit the nation’s pavements, pathways and parks this winter to fight arthritis, the nation’s most common cause of disability. Jingle Bell Run/Walk® is a fun and festive way to kick off your holidays by helping others! Wear a holiday themed costume. Tie jingle bells to your shoelaces. Run or walk a 5 kilometer route with your team members and celebrate the season by giving. For more information visit www. productionsbylittleredhen.co.

Semmes Snowflake 5K and Fun Run This race is to benefit Team U.S.A. Transplant Athletes participating in the World Transplant

Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

November/December2012

Games in Durban, South Africa in July 2013.

The race starts at 8:00 am. Please visit www. productionsbylittleredhen.com for more information.

A Night of Dickens A reader’s theatre performance of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol by APO/JESTERS; favorite Christmas songs; country dancing; refreshments.

Theatre USA 7 p.m. University of South Alabama, Laidlaw Performing Arts Center. $5 (cash only). For more information, please contact 251-460-6306.

Sunday, December 2

5 Rivers Sunday Matinee Come out and join us every Sunday for a free, family friendly film. The films play throughout the day.

This week, we celebrate Pearl Harbor Day and learn about the thousands of women who left their homes to become the first female pilots to fly for the United States military in Fly Girls. For more information, visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com or call 251-6250814.

USA Trumpet Department Student Recital The trumpet recital will take place at 7:30 p.m. at USA Laidlaw Performing Arts Center. Free admission. For more information, please visit www. southalabama.edu/music.

Monday, December 3

Free Admission to Mobile Museum of Art First Monday of the month and free admission to the Mobile Museum of Art. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Mobile Museum of Art (4850 Museum Dr).

Together We Can Class 8 of 8 cooperative parenting course. See Classes & Meetings section-The Family Center for details.

Tuesday, December 4

2012 Peace Award – Award Presentation with Performance Presented by the Community of Christ Church to the Pride of Mobile Chorus, which will perform for 45 minutes; award includes $2,000, which the chorus will match and present to the Wounded Warriors Project, in memory of USMC Sgt Mark Bradley. 3 p.m. Community of Christ Church (672 Azalea Rd) Admission/donation of canned food for a local food bank. For more information, contact 228-990-3365 (James Ely).

University of South Alabama Concert Choir and University Chorale Holiday Concert Conductor: Laura Moore. 7:30 p.m. University of South Alabama, Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Recital Hall. General/ $8, USA students, faculty and staff, senior citizens, children under 18/ $5.

Contact: 251-460-6136/www.southalabama.edu/ music.

5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night Free, everyone is welcome. Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs.6-7 p.m. Alabama Hiking Trail Society; 7-8:30 p.m. Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club; 7-8:30 p.m. Mobile Bay Sierra Club. For more information, visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com or call 251-625-0814.

5 Rivers StoryTime The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers from 10-11 a.m. Children

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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’s story is How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss. For more information, visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com or call 251-625-0814.

Thursday, December 6

Westside Tailgate Farmers Market Come join us for a Fall Craft & Food Market from 5-7 p.m. It is located at Providence Presbyterian Church—rain or shine (if it’s raining, we’ll be inside the church). The location is 2320 Schillinger Rd. S. We have crafters, artisans, bakers and, of course, farmers with fresh, local creations and produce to offer throughout the fall. Many of our regular vendors will be in attendance. Check out the Westside Tailgate Farmers Market group on FACEBOOK to see what products will be available.

Friday, December 7

Art Lounge – Centre for the Living Arts For all ages; Draw-It and Make-It Tables with changing projects. 6 – 8 p.m. Centre for the Living Arts, Space 301 (301 Conti St) Members/ free; nonmembers: adults/ $5; students & seniors/ $3. For more information, please contact: 251-208-5671 or visit www.centreforthelivingarts.com.

Saturday, December 8

Drawing Animal Characters for Children’s Books Workshop with Val Webb Illustrator Val Webb will draw throughout this three-hour interactive talk, demonstrating how to combine observation with imagination to design original animal characters who sparkle with personality. Learn to show action and facial expression, and to create three-dimensional effects with light and shadow. Get tips on drawing eyes and different fur textures. Val will also discuss current trends in the children’s book market, submissions, copyright, building a portfolio and marketing your illustration work. This demonstration/workshop is packed with information for aspiring illustrators or anyone interested in children’s books and the animal characters who populate them. Simply watch and listen — or bring your sketchbook and follow along! Price is $40. Please contact Brennan Gibson to register at 251 208 5658 or email cla.gibson@ cityofmobile.org.

Great Amazing Race & Family Activity at Blakely State Park Sign up for this fun adventure race and memorymaking family activity! Kids in grades 1-12 can pair up with or race against parents, grandparents, siblings or mentors while competing in a series of fun challenges patterned after the show The Amazing Race. Whether you run, jog, walk or watch, it’ll be an experience you will never forget. Registration will close once 100 team limit is reached. 1 p.m at Historic Blakeley State Park located at 34745 Alabama 225 Spanish Fort. Please visit www.

GreatAmazingRace.com to sign up or for more information.

Cougars Running Wild 5K Corpus Christi Booster Club is having a 5K race at Municipal Park at 3 p.m. and a fun run at 4 p.m.

Please visit www.productionsbylittleredhen.com for more information.

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Calendar

Sunday, December 9

Golden Dragon Acrobats at the Saenger This show combines acrobatics, traditional dance and spectacular costumes. 2 p.m. Saenger Theatre (6 S Joachim St) $20-$35 (plus service fee) For more information or tickets, contact: 251-208-5600 or visit www.mobilesaenger.com.

5 Rivers Sunday Matinee Come out and join us every Sunday for a free family, friendly film. The films play throughout the day.

This week we dive into the vast variety of insects in Life: Insects. For more information, please visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com.

Tuesday, December 11

5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night Free, everyone welcome. Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs.

Hunter’s Education Course 6-9 p.m. (registration required, call 626-5474). Mobile Bay Audubon Society 6:30-8:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com or call 251-625-0814.

Wednesday, December 12 Learning Lunch at the Mobile History Museum - Lost and Found: The History of Mobile’s Fort Powell Come join us for our learning lunch presented by Sid Schell. Bring lunch; complimentary beverages provided. Noon History Museum of Mobile (111 S Royal St) For more information, contact 251-2087569 or visit www.museumofmobile.com.

Thursday, December 13

Mayor’s Breakfast Mark your calendars for the annual holiday breakfast with Mayor Sam Jones, at 7:30 a.m. at the Renaissance Riverview Hotel. Tickets are not yet on sale, but sponsorships are available. Please contact Elizabeth Sanders at 251-434-8498 or esanders@ downtownmobile.org if you’d like to sponsor this popular holiday event.

Friday, December 14

LODA Artwalk 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. LoDa Arts District (LOwer DAuphin St) Check NCS website for complete list of activities/ map after noon the day of the event. For more information, contact: 251-208-7443 or visit. www. ncsmobile.org.

Art Lounge – Centre for the Living Arts See December 7 for more information.

Saturday, December 15

Disney Live! Presents Mickey’s Music Festival Mickey Mouse and friends rock the world with the stars from The Little Mermaid, Aladdin and Disney/ Pixar’s Toy Story in their new touring show Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival. Disney hits are remixed to the hottest sounds of today featuring hip hop, pop, swing, reggae, rock, country and more! The irresistible lineup of performers, including Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy; Ariel, Sebastian and

Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

Family Calendar Ursula; Jasmine, Aladdin and Genie; and Woody, Buzz and Jessie; are among the more than 25 Disney stars featured in this jam session fit for the entire family! You can’t resist dancing, singing, playing your air-guitar and laughing with this band of characters! Come join them at Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival for a lively concert experience guaranteed to deliver enough rockin’ memories to last a lifetime. Tickets on Sale NOW! Mobile Civic Center Theatre- Two Performances: 1 p.m. & 5 p.m.

(Doors open one hour before each performance). For more information, visit www.mobilecivicctr.com or to purchase tickets, visit www.ticketmaster.com.

Sunday, December 16

5 Rivers Sunday Matinee Come out and join us every Sunday for a free, family friendly film. The films play throughout the day.

This week’s film is Life of Mammals: Opportunists.

For more information, visit www.Alabama5Rivers. com or call 251-625-0814.

Tuesday, December 18

5 Rivers StoryTime 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’s story is Snow Party by Harriet Zeifert. For more information, visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com or call 251-625-0814.

November/December2012

Sunday, December 23

5 Rivers Sunday Matinee Come out and join us every Sunday for a free, family friendly film. The films play throughout the day.

This week we celebrate the holidays with A Charlie Brown Christmas. For more information, visit www.

Alabama5Rivers.com or call 251-625-0814.

Monday, December 24

11th Annual Carpe Diem Santa Run 11th Annual Santa Run in memory of Van Rusling benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile.The Santa Run is a 2 mile fun run, walk, bike ride, dog pulling family event that comes complete with a hayride that is pulled by an elf driven John Deer tractor! Location: 4072 Old Shell Road in front of Carpe Diem. 8 a.m. Contact: Adrienne Tate - 251-694-6873 or adrienne@ rmhcmobile.org.

Thursday, December 27

Azalea City Center of the Arts –Winter Camp The Center will be offering a Winter Camp for children wishing to spend two days with the arts from 8:30 - 3:00. Classes will be available in all of the areas offered at the Center including Drama, Music, Piano, Voice, Art, Creative Writing, and Dance. After care is also available.

The cost is only $75 for both. For more information, please call 510-1808 or visit www. azaleacityarts.com.

Friday, December 28 Azalea City of the Arts – Winter Camp See December 27 for more information.

Sunday, December 30

Greg Allman Concert at the Saenger The Centre for the Living Arts and AEG Live are proud to present Gregg Allman live and in concert at the Mobile Saenger Theatre at 7 p.m. As a founding member of the one and only Allman Brothers Band and in his own storied solo career, Allman has long been a gifted natural interpreter of the blues, his soulful and distinctive voice one of the defining sounds in the history of American music. Tickets on sale through ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745 3000.

5 Rivers Sunday Matinee Come out and join us every Sunday for a free, family friendly film. The films play throughout the day.

This week we learn about the multitudes of insects found in our gardens, and we find out whether or not they are harmful or beneficial in Garden Insects. For more information, visit www.Alabama5Rivers.com or call 251-625-0814.

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

Please send your calendar events to lynn@mobilebayparents.com

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Public Library Activities Mobile Public Libraries Schedule Ben May Main Library

701 Government Street, 208-7086 Hours: M-Th: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

F & Sa: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Open Sundays 1-5 p.m.

Individuals and families welcome to storytimes; no groups, please.

Mother Goose: birth to 18 months.

Caregiver required. Thursdays, 10 a.m.

Toddler Time: 19-30 months.

Caregiver required.

Wednesdays, 10 a.m.

Good Listeners: 2 1/2 – 5 years.

Wednesdays & Thursdays, 11 a.m.

Moorer/Spring Hill Branch

4 McGregor Ave. S., 470-7770 Hours: M, W, F & Sa: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Tu & Th: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Family Storytime: Ages 2 and up.

Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.

Caregiver required.

Saraland Public Library 111 Saraland Loop, 675-2879 Hours: M, W, F & Sa: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Tu & Th: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Good Listeners: Ages 3-6 Stories and Crafts: Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

Semmes Branch

9150 Moffett Rd., 645-6840 Hours: M & W: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Tu & Th: 12 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Sa: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Closed Fridays Good Listeners: 3-6 years old.

Wednesdays, 10:30, Registration required for groups.

Family and Friends Storytime: Ages 2 & up; Thursdays at 10:30. Registration required; no groups, please.

Toulminville Branch

601 Stanton Rd., 438-7075 Hours: M & Th: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.; Tu, W, F & Sa: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m Good Listeners: Ages 3-6, Tues. 10 a.m. Registration required.

West Regional Branch

5555 Grelot Rd, 340-8571 Hours: M-Th: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.; F & Sa: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m Registration required; no groups, please.

Mother Goose: Ages birth to 14 months. Caregiver required.

Wednesdays 10 a.m.

Toddler Time: Ages 15 months to 2 years. Caregiver required. Thursdays at 10 a.m.

Parent and Child: Ages 2 & 3. Caregiver required. Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.; Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.

Good Listener: Ages 4 & 5: Wednesdays at 11 a.m.; Ages 3-5: Thursdays at 11 a.m.

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5808 Highway 90 W, Ste. E, 653-5012 Hours: M & Tu: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; W - Sa: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

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Mobile Bay Parents I December 2012

Lincoln

Rise of the Guardians

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: AViolence: C Sexual Content: ALanguage: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated Lincoln PG-13 for an intense scene of war violence, some images of carnage and brief strong language.

Daniel Day-Lewis takes on the role of America’s 16th president during the bleak and bitter days of the Civil War. With the body count steadily rising thanks to the brutal battles fought in the mud and stench of the combat zone, Lincoln is eager to stop the bloodshed. But he is just as interested in ensuring the eradication of slavery. To that end he adamantly pursues the passage of the 13th Amendment designed to abolish the practice of slave ownership.

Most of the Democrats in the House (Lee Pace, Peter McRobbie) are staunchly against the constitutional change. And even some of Lincoln’s own cabinet members question the wisdom in trying to push through the amendment, urging him instead to focus on ending the fighting. But during the final days of his first four years in office, Lincoln insists that Secretary of State William Seward (David Strathairn) and others with clout in the Republican Party (Tommy Lee Jones, David Costabile) help secure votes for the crucial ballot.

Meanwhile on the White House domestic front, Lincoln faces personal and family difficulties. His wife, Mary Todd Lincoln (Sally Field) still mourning the loss of their son Willie, is given to angry outbursts, crying fits and excruciating headaches. As well, she feels the disapproval of the eastern politicians and their society wives, and is prone to excessive spending as a way to compensate. At the end of the semester, the Lincoln’s son Robert (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) returns from school with plans to join the army despite his parents’ objections. At times, it seems to be more than one individual can bear.

While brief but graphic depictions of the war make it onto the screen, along with unnecessary profanities (including the strong sexual expletive), the dominant conflicts in this script take place in the Congressional chambers and private rooms of the White House. Strong performances from a large cast of seasoned actors coupled with a powerful script that revolves around the clashes fought off the battlefield gives audiences a very personal insight into this Union leader and this decisive turning point in American history.

Best suited for older teens and adults, Lincoln is an inspiring political tale of the backwoods lawyer who rose to the country’s highest office in an era that appears fitted just for him.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: BSexual Content: A Language: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Rise of the Guardians PG for thematic elements and some mildly scary action.

The perpetuation of childhood dreams and hopes lies in the care of four guardians -- Nicholas St. North (voice by Alec Baldwin), E. Aster Bunnymund (voice by Hugh Jackman), Tooth, the tooth fairy (voice by Isla Fisher) and the mute Sandman. However all that is good is threatened when Pitch, the bogeyman (voice by Jude Law), comes out of the shadows with the intent of instilling fear into nighttime fantasies.

Needing reinforcements against the invading evil, the Man in the Moon chooses a new guardian. Unfortunately, Jack Frost (voice by Chris Pine) is anything but enthusiastic about being selected. Carefree and given to pranks, the reckless Jack just wants to have fun.

Don’t expect a Coca Cola version of jolly Old St. Nicholas or a cuddly type of Easter Bunny in this holiday animation. These characters come with some edge. Tattooed from his wrists to his elbows, Santa sounds like a Russian Cossack and has an unabashed disdain for elves. The Easter Bunny is equally surly with an Australian accent and an ongoing grudge against the playful Jack.

Yet despite their less than personable personalities, the guardians take their duties very seriously. And Jack’s nonchalant attitude toward his new role is both frustrating and infuriating, especially when the impish iceman’s actions put the other characters, and more importantly children’s beliefs, in danger.

From the creators of How To Train Your Dragon, this film’s 3D animation and attention to detail rival anything movie audiences have seen in the recent past. Still, frequent moments of peril, the depiction of a death by drowning and unwarranted punching means this story is better suited for the oldest of children who won’t be disturbed by the dark images of nightmarish characters racing around the rooms of young sleepers.

Pitting good against evil, this plot lacks the light-hearted charm of last year’s holiday release Arthur Christmas. Yet this heroic tale of a swordwielding Santa and a boomerang-tossing hare promotes the importance of taking responsibility and discovering the inner values that motivate us -both good messages for a rising generation.

What Parents need to know about Lincoln...

Violence: Soldiers engage in fierce hand-to-hand fighting with characters punched, stabbed and shot. A man’s head is held under water until he drowns.

Gruesome images of maimed and dead corpses strewn across a battlefield are seen. Blood oozes from a wheelbarrow containing severed limbs that are dumped into an open pit. A man attempts to shoot another on the street.

Sexual Content: A woman is seen in her slip.

Language: The script contains two strong sexual expletives used in a nonsexual context, racial slurs, infrequent scatological slang, numerous curse words and some terms of Deity.

Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters frequently smoke. Other tobacco use is also shown. Characters drink on numerous occasions. A woman tells an employee to get a man drunk so he will sleep better.

What Parents need to know about Rise of the Guardians...

Violence: Characters are shaken, dropped, kidnapped, and shocked with electricity, as well as kicked and hit by flying objects. A character races through traffic and down busy streets on a sled. A character drowns. Some weapon use is shown, including swords and large axes. A man is punched in the face and has his tooth knocked out. A dog growls menacingly before chasing another character. Characters repeatedly punch others. A boy falls down a deep ice crevice. Frequent moments of peril and fright are shown.

Sexual Content: A female character is attracted to a boy.

Language: Some brief name-calling is included.

Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. .

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