Mobile Bay Parents July 2020

STRONGER TOGETHER #WeAreAllInThisTogether

Our community is experiencing some unusual times right now, but the mission of Bishop State Community College remains the same.

We want to help you succeed! Whether you are a current student working to complete your degree, a transient student looking to earn some credits while home away from school, or a non-traditional student looking for a fresh start, Bishop State is here for you every step of the way!

Fall registration opens in July!

Visit our website to learn more today.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

visit us at bishop.edu or by emailing admiss@bishop.edu

MAIN CAMPUS | BAKER-GAINES CENTRAL | SOUTHWEST | CARVER NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

No employee or applicant for employment or promotion shall be discriminated against on the basis of any impermissible criterion or characteristic including, without limitation, race, color, national origin, religion, marital status, disability, sex, age or any other protected class as defined by federal and state law.

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Volume 10 Number 4

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Columns 2 Publisher’s Note 4 Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Co-Parenting Survival Advice to help make divorce a little easier for you and your children.

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Common Sense Media Press play on podcasts to enhance summer learning.

8 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

24 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between

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Common Sense Media

36 Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Road Trippin’

20 ideas and activities to keep kids busy and content.

Summer Activities

Local day camps and activities have geared up for summer fun!

Departments 5 Bits and Pieces

On The Cover Piper Tillman (6), daughter of Paul and Tricia Tillman and little sister to Evan Tillman (age 9). Proud grandparents are Donnie and Arlene Larson and Mary Britt.

Piper enjoys dance, Cheer Club

9 School Bits 33 Get This!

34 Family Calendar

at her school, swimming, reading and riding her bike.

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FromthePublisher

Mobile Bay Mobile Bay’s Foremost Parenting Source

For those of you who are keeping count, as of June 20, it officially became summer! Usually, transitioning from spring (school year) to summer is obvious with end of year parties and big family trips, but this one... to say the transition has been weird does not do it justice. For some, summer started a couple of months ago, and for others, they are still waiting. Family plans have changed from big family cruises to... well that is still being decided.

Just give me some glorious beach days and I am set.

Some families need a little more adventure. My Facebook feed has been filled lately with posts of promises to win a luxury RV. Sure, it is most likely a scam, but I see friends sharing it and dreaming of that perfect family road trip, singing campfire songs and eating dinner over a bonfire under the stars. Sounds pretty perfect, huh? I mean we have all been cooped up together in our homes for months anyway, why not take it on the road and go camping? If you have Clark Griswald dreams of the ideal family road trip then I encourage you to start your prep by flipping to page 26. Jan Pierce shares some tips to make things run a little smother in Road Trip? Twenty Ways to Keep the Kids Happy.

If you aren’t quite ready to hit the road and prefer to stay close to home, then you know the struggles of figuring out “Is it open? Is it not open?” With all of the changes and uncertainty that this pandemic has brought, that particular conversation has occurred weekly in our office and our home. To help navigate those waters, we decided to go a little off course from our normal July theme of birthday parties (we will announce a new month for that soon) and give you a list we hope will be helpful as you plan your July activities.

On page 28 you will find our Summer Fun Guide. This is a listing of camps and other fun family activities that, as of this printing, are planning to be operational in July. Some camps indicated that while, yes, they were open, they were already full...so those camps have not been included. There’s nothing more frustrating than getting your kids excited about a camp only to find it full. So, if you see a camp you are interested in, register today!

Maybe you are just looking for some local family outing ideas. Well, we have that covered too in the Summer Fun Guide. Since there have been so many adjustments over the last month or so, and changes do seem to be occurring daily, we do encourage you to contact the location before planning your trip. Some are open with normal hours and operation and others have amended hours and capacity limits. And the Family Calendar is back! You can find that on page 34. Again, things change daily so check with the event itself before you head out.

As our community starts to venture out more, please continue to be cautious and take the necessary precautions to keep you, your family and your community safe and healthy. Also, remember to be kind to one another. The world can seem like a scary place some days, but together, when we focus on our commonalities instead of our differences, we can pull together and make the world a better place.

Happy 4th!

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@mobilebayparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@mobilebayparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Lucy Green Contributing Writers Jennifer Adair, M.D. Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Jan Pierce, M.Ed. Laura Reagan-Porras Dave Ramsey Gerry Paige Smith

Cover Photography Hannah Stinson Photography www.HannahStinsonPhotography.com

President Jason Watson Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton ads@mobilebayparents.com (251) 304-1200 Account Manager Eleanor Williams Ad Design Tim Welch

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Visit us at www.mobilebayparents.com

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Mobile Bay Parents I July 2020

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.

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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 2020 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.

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TherapeuticParenting

by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Your Kids Are Always Watching This month we are introducing a guest columnist, Justin Martin – the 18yo son of Sonia Martin. Justin is a freshman at Auburn University and will be seeking a degree in social work before moving on to law school. He has apparently learned a thing or two by listening to his mother…

Everyone has had the moment wherein all day you have been looking forward to something, and it gets swiped away from you right underneath your nose. It could be anything from an event you were attending that got spoiled by a babysitter who flaked, someone eating the last bit of dinner you were hoping to have for leftovers, or even something as trivial as a favorite spot on the couch at the end of the night.

For me, it was late at night, and I had just gotten back from working a long shift in 90-degree heat at my local Chick-Fil-A. Nothing sounded better than unwinding with a cold bowl of my favorite chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream. I told each and every one of my brothers to save some for when I get home, so I was feeling pretty good when I opened the door to the freezer.

But then, disaster. As I began to search, I discovered that there was no ice cream, and slowly, a creeping feeling of dread and despair fell upon me.

OK - maybe not the dramatic, hopeless, despair I’m describing - but you get the idea.

Imagine this had happened to you instead. Let’s take the leftovers example: You get home from a long day at work and they are gone – so you get back in your car, drive to town and are about to dig into your favorite fast food spot, only to discover that the restaurant has forgotten your order.

How do you go from there? Do you berate the restaurant for forgetting the order?

Do you get upset and take it out on others?

Do you just go back out again and re-order?

Instead of immediately lashing out and getting upset at the situation, consider the impact this could have on your child who is certainly watching (whether you know it or not).

The way you react to a bad circumstance has a direct effect on your child’s future.

Your reactions, as a parent, are instrumental in determining and shaping your child’s future reaction to these sorts of scenarios. Whether it be how you talk to strangers at the supermarket, the way you treat your family members, or even your own table manners, it is important to understand that the way you carry yourself is key in how your child develops in the future.

You simply have to realize the lasting impact of the decisions you make and how you engage with and react to those around you – whether good or bad. The important

standards you teach your children like saying thank you, shaking hands (well, I guess not right now), looking others in the eye, and treating others with respect under any circumstances are something you want them to carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Though certainly children and young adults have autonomy and can, and sometimes do, choose to go a different route – that doesn’t negate the impact you have. If you choose to side with rage and get upset over everyday stressors, chances are your son or daughter will act the same way in the future.

Choosing a peaceful response, one that demonstrates key values like patience, respect, and kindness are important to ensuring that your child can look up to you as someone they want to be like when they grow up.

And, for the love, please do not eat the last of the ice cream... it just isn’t fair.

Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to mitigate negative behaviors. She is the Director of Central Alabama for Lifeline Children’s Services and is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted and she is a foster parent.

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SAFER AT HOME

SUMMER CAMP Campers, ages 6 to 12, will be inspired by works of art in the Museum’s collection and learn to use varied materials and techniques. The ten recorded lessons, led by familiar camp instructors, will be available for campers to view at their convenience. Whether your child already has a love of art or is just getting started, everyone will enjoy virtual art-camping.

Learn more and register at mmfa.org/camp.

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Support for Summer Camp is provided by Susan and Bob Runkle.

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Sunny Side Theater’s Summer Camp Performances

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Shrek at Bellingrath Gardens - The PACT

Shrek: The Musical is coming to Mobile this July 9-11 at Bellingrath Gardens on The Great Lawn! The PACT Theatre Company is bringing this musical based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film to life! Shrek brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage and proves there's more to the story than meets the ears. Tickets can be purchased at thepactmobile.com! Make sure to bring your own chair and a picnic dinner and enjoy a musical under the stars!

Sunny Side Theater is excited to announce summer camp performances in July! The shows will be presented at Springhill College in the Arlene Mitchell Theater but seating will be limited to 100 people per show! Temperature checks will be performed at the door and anyone over 100.4 will be asked to attend a different show. For ticket information, contact Chris at 251-510-1808 or go on-line to sunnysidedrama.com! It’s not too late to register to be a camper too!

July 9 at 7 PM and July 10 at 10 AM - “The Walking Dwarves” - Walking dwarves... as in the walking dead?

That’s right! What could be more fun for all ages than a zombie fractured fairy tale?! Thanks to some prompting from a conniving Magic Mirror, the vain queen poisons apples with a “special ingredient," leading to a kingdomwide plague of zombie dwarves! As the dwarves move through Fairy Tale Land, Cinderella, her stepsisters, and Little Red all fall victim! Can Snow White stop them before it’s too late?

July 17 at 5 PM and 7 PM - “Camp Rock the Musical” - A classic story of rivalry and power, Disney's Camp Rock The Musical opens with Mitchie and her friends arriving at Camp Rock, ready to spend another summer jamming out and having the time of their lives. But the new, flashy Camp Star across the lake now threatens Camp Rock's very existence. To keep the doors open, Mitchie steps up, rallies her fellow Camp Rockers and gets them into top shape for the ultimate showdown!

July 30 at 7 PM and July 31 at 10 AM - “The Untold Story of Rose Red” - Sugary sweet media darling Snow White thinks her fair sister, Rose Red (aka Little Rose Red Riding Hood of Sherwood Forest), never gets the credit she deserves. To set the record straight, Snow invites reporters Baby Bear and Mama Bear to give them the real scoop: Rose Red is no helpless victim or weak-kneed witness — she’s the hero!

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Southwest Chamber of Commerce Kids’ Day Drive Thru

Join us for a fun drive thru event to help children from ages 4-12 prepare to go BACK TO SCHOOL at the Tillmans Corner Community ua l Center from 7th Ann 10:00am2:00pm!

Free backpacks JULY 25th 10 AM - 2PM and school supplies are being given away to the first TILLMAN’S 500 participants.

ACORNER parent or guardian COMMUNITY CENTER 5055 CAROL PLANTATION RD. must be present, MOBILE,with AL 36619 child, to receive the supplies. Sno Cones, Food, Free School Supplies Health Resources & Giveaways. For more information contact the Chamber office at (251)666-2846.

Join us for a fun drive thru event to help children from ages 4-12 prepare to go BACK TO SCHOOL! Free backpacks and school supplies are being given away to the first 500 participants. A parent or guardian must be present, with child, to receive the supplies.

Sno Cones/Food Free School Supplies Health Resources & Giveaways

For more information contact the Chamber office at (251)666-2846.

Sponsored by SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce and ADJUSTERS GIVE BACK

Children’s Cup Regatta Sets Sail at Fairhope Yacht Club

The Children’s Cup Regatta, a fundraiser to benefit patients from the Alabama Gulf Coast treated at Children’s of Alabama, will take place this summer on August 15, 2020. Sailing enthusiasts and friends in Mobile and Baldwin counties are invited to enjoy a day of sailboat racing at the Fairhope Yacht Club, 101 Volanta Avenue.

A family-friendly event, guests are invited to watch the races free-of-charge beginning at 12:30 p.m. Throughout the afternoon, guests can bid on silent auction items, enjoy the kids’ activity area, a cash bar and live music. The awards ceremony begins at 7 p.m.

For boaters who don’t want to sail but want to take their boats out on the water, the Cruisers Crawl includes a professional photo of each boat in action, as well as dinner, t-shirt and a goodie bag.

Registration starts at 4:00 p.m., costs $50 per boat, and is open to all classes.

The kids’ activity area, known as “Al’s Activity Area” in honor of local Children’s patient Al Guarisco, opens at 4:00 p.m. and features a slide, arts and crafts, games and the Rain Gutter Regatta.

Participation from out-of- town sailors and non-yacht club members is welcome. Boats can be parked at Fairhope Yacht Club overnight. The entry fee for Portsmouth, Rhodes 19 and Catalina 22 is $50 per boat. Youth Class entry fee is $25 per boat. All entry fees are tax deductible.

Children’s of Alabama patients and their families in the area are invited to attend the Regatta. A few boats will be available to take former patients out to watch the sailing action close-up.

For more information or to register online, visit http://give.childrensal.org/regatta2020 or call Kerrie Benson at (251) 610-4969. Event updates will be posted regularly to facebook.com/ ChildrensCupRegatta. Day-of registration is available from 9-10:30 a.m. at the Fairhope Yacht Club.

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Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament

The Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament is designed to bring families together and encourage sportsmanship. The tournament takes place on July 11, 2020, the Saturday before the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. RMYAT is for children 15 years and younger and it typically attracts more than 1,500 young anglers.

The one-day event features 31 categories with prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes in all categories. One Master Angler is awarded.

All participants receive a hot dog, a Coca Cola, a Blue Bell ice cream and a certificate. All proceeds benefit the Mobile Jaycees Children’s Christmas Shopping Tour. Please visit adsfr.com/rmyat for more information.

Child Advocacy Center Seeking Donations to benefit Abused Children

Covid19 has changed all our lives and how we do business. When so many things slowed down, child abuse is on the rise and fundraising at the Child Advocacy Center has taken a drastic blow since March. As of June our largest fundraisers are either canceled or postponed until our next physical year. This could result in the loss of 33% of our income to help fund services for abused children in our area. Our major event CHEERS TO CHILDREN, would have been held on July 27 but will NOT take place this year. This event usually raises $25,000, all this money helps fund services at the CAC. I invite you to join us by continuing your support of this as a NON-EVENT by sending a donation of $35 in place of your ticket and enjoy the evening at home with dinner and a glass of wine! This is an opportunity to help our children and help the Child Advocacy Center continue providing services for these most vulnerable young victims.

Mobile Public Library’s Summer Reading Celebration Registration for Children and Teens

Register for Mobile Public Library's 2020 Summer Reading Celebration!

Every participant will be entered into a drawing to win an iPad grand prize at the end of the summer. Families and Kids: Play bingo with us this summer and get a chance to win a Family Fun Pack. Teens: Take our challenge on Beanstack and win more prizes. To register go to https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfKrJD1oU2EF0jkXEks1 37HkwER8hdPWxjg5lXlZwKMhArk0Q/viewform

7th Annual Bayou La Batre Kayak Classic

Alabama's Largest Kayak Fishing Tournament is scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 1st at the Bayou La Batre City Docks. You DON'T want to miss this!

The tournament site will have free admission for the whole family to come and listen to the live band, visit with our vendors, eat some great food and take advantage of the door prizes while waiting for the contestants to weigh in their catch!

It’s a fun and exciting family day for all!

There are two categories of competing fishermen: Adults, who must fish in a non-motorized vessel and Juniors, who may fish from the dock. We are giving away some great prizes this year!

Enter the tournament here: https://events.alabamacoasting.com/ event/bayou-la-batre-kayak-classic

Kids Gulf Discovery Day at Bellingrath Gardens and Home

Come to Bellingrath Gardens and Home on Wednesday, July 15, for Kids Gulf Discovery Day, an opportunity for children of all ages to learn about the wildlife and ecology of the Gulf Coast.

A wide variety of environmental organizations will be on hand for activities and demonstrations from 9 a.m. to noon.

Children will get a close up look at the creatures of Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s Touch Tables, and the Environmental Studies Center will present three exciting Raptor Road Shows on the Great Lawn, featuring rehabilitated hawks, owls, ospreys and other birds of prey. The Raptor Road Show times are 9:15, 10:15 and 11:15 a.m.

Guests may also take a 25-minute guided cruise along the beautiful Fowl River with our friends from Wild Native Delta Safaris! Cruise times are 9:30, 10, 10:30, 11 and 11:30 a.m.; noon; and 12:30 p.m., weather permitting. Fees are $10 for adults and $6 for children. Reservations are required for the cruise; to register, call 251-459-8868.

During the event, Bellingrath’s staff and volunteers will continue to follow recommended guidelines to ensure guests’ health and safety. Social distancing will be emphasized. Guests are not required to wear masks, but are welcome to bring their own. Kids Gulf Discovery Day admission, which includes entrance into the Gardens for the day, is $14 for adults and $8 for children ages 5-12. There is no admission fee for Bellingrath members or for ages 4 and younger. For details, visit bellingrath.org.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2020

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USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital Implements Cord Blood Donation Program

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The mission at USA Health is to help people lead longer, better lives. That mission is being fulfilled further at USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital as it starts the upper Gulf Coast region’s first Cord Blood Donation Program that could help treat diseases in patients.

According to LifeSouth, a cord blood bank and USA Health’s partner in the program, the umbilical cord is rich in blood-forming cells that could treat more than 80 diseases, such as leukemia and lymphoma.

“Patients who deliver a baby at our hospital now have a chance to save their newborn’s cord blood, which would otherwise be discarded, to help save a life of another patient,” said Mimi Munn, M.D., professor and chair of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine and maternal-fetal medicine physician at USA Health. “Patients with certain diseases could benefit from this and it’s exciting that Children’s & Women’s Hospital can play a part.”

LifeSouth will counsel patients about their donation. Cord blood donations collected at Children’s & Women’s Hospital, which qualify for potential transplant, will be listed on the website - Be the Match Registry, a global leader in bone marrow transplantation.

“Cord blood units collected at the hospital will be available to patients in the United States and in countries around the world,” said Thomas Moss with LifeSouth. To participate, patients should contact their obstetrician-gynecologist for more information. There is no cost to patients who donate.

Playhouse in the Park Presents Beauty and the Beast

Playhouse in the Park presents our original musical production of Beauty and the Beast, and is set to open on Friday, July 31. The show will run on weekends for a month, ending on August 23. Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 PM, Sundays at 2:30 PM. Purchase tickets on our website playhouseinthepark.org/box-office.

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PBS KIDS and the PBS KIDS Logo are registered trademarks of PBS. Used with permission. The contents of this ad were developed under a grant from the Department of Education. However, those contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the Department of Education, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government. The project is funded by a Ready To Learn grant (PR/AWARD No. U295A150003, CFDA No. 84.295A) provided by the Department of Education to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Sunscreen Tips for the Summer Many families are outside daily now that the weather is warmer: Whether it is just in your front yard or if it is traveling to the pool or beach. So, let’s review some tips to keep your skin healthy while you are soaking up some sun and fresh air!

How you protect your skin today can help prevent skin cancer tomorrow. Sunscreen is one of the ways that we can protect our skin while playing outside. A recent study showed that only 25% of youth apply sunscreen appropriately.

So how should we wear sunscreen?

The first step is to choose an appropriate sunscreen. Sunscreen with SPF 15 protects from about 95% of UV rays, SPF 30 protects against about 97% of UV rays, and SPF 50 and higher protects from about 98% of UV ray damage. You should start applying sunscreen if you are going to be outside in the sun for more than 30 minutes. Most

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2020

sunscreens wear off after 15 minutes of being in the water, so reapply sunscreen every time you dry off after getting out of the water. Because we sweat the sunscreen off as we are outside, everyone should reapply sunscreen every 2 hours while outside. The peak time that UV rays are shining directly on us is about 10:00 am until 3:00 pm. When possible, it is best to avoid direct sunlight during these times. Even while under an umbrella or when it is cloudy outside, your skin is still getting UV rays. Therefore, wearing sunscreen is still imperative. Another way to protect your skin is to wear protective clothing and widebrimmed hats while out in the sun.

For children less than 6 months old, it is recommended to not apply sunscreen except to small portions of the body such as the nose and hands that cannot be covered with clothing. The skin of infants is much different than adult skin, and so sunscreen

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in these young children is absorbed more and is not as effective. Although sometimes unavoidable, for infants it is best to avoid being outside for long periods of time in the middle of the day.

I know many people are getting cabin fever and are anxious to just be outside now!

Have fun and don’t forget that our skin is the largest organ of the body. It protects the rest of our body from damage that can be caused by harmful things in the environment, including too much sun. So let us remember to protect our skin this summer like it naturally protects us every day!

Jennifer Adair, M.D., was born and raised in Mobile. She joined Children’s Medical Group in July 2013 and currently practices at their Airport office. Jennifer and her husband, Cory, reside in Mobile with their son, Finn, and their three dogs, Barkley, Fitz, and Roo.

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Autauga County Schools

Recently Graduated ASMS Senior Receives $25,000 for Graduate School as a Brown Foundation Silver Medalist

Graduating from the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) is not the only thing Gabriella Taylor is celebrating this month. Gabby received news that she is one of two 2020 Emmy Noether Award Silver Medalists for The Joe W. and Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation. The Emmy Noether Awards seek top aspiring female research scientists in any STEM (science, technology, engineering, or math) field to help realize their potential careers through financial and networking assistance. As a Silver Medalist, Gabby will be awarded up to $25,000 for a qualified graduate level research program and will be inducted as a 2020 Emmy Noether Scholar.

As part of the selection process for the award, Gabby presented her research on burn wounds. In summer of 2019, Gabby began conducting college-level research at the University of South Alabama. Her project revolved around the design and implementation of a novel thermal imaging device for determining the severity of partial-thickness burn wounds. She was in charge of writing key pieces of code for the device software and constructing the device itself from scratch. From their research and work on this device, she and her coresearchers were able to more accurately diagnose and treat burn wounds.

When asked about her reaction to being selected as a Silver Medalist, Taylor described, “The day after my interview, I received an email inviting me to another Zoom meeting. … It was then that I received the news. I can hardly remember a time when I was that excited! In fact, I had to put all of my energy into not jumping out of my seat and screaming into the open air. It certainly felt great to see a dream come to fruition.”

The 2020 Emmy Noether Scholars seek to become leaders in STEM research careers. Specifically, Gabby desires to study in and work for a medical college one day as a dual researcher and associate professor. Gabby is from Mobile County, and she will be attending the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) this fall on full scholarship. She intends to major in cognitive neuroscience and to pursue a PhD one day to work in a medical college.

“The money will definitely be a tremendous help during my grad school career … [and] I see the award as a validation of my research thus far and an encouraging push toward the research opportunities to come,” says Taylor.

Gabby will receive a certificate in the mail from The Brown Foundation and be honored in 2021 at the Emmy Noether Award Ceremony.

Mobile County Students Named MCPSS Learning Leading Award Winners

Madelyn Fetner of J.E. Turner, Lily Hoyle of Phillips Preparatory, and Vanessa Siggers of Murphy High School have been named Mobile County Public Schools’ Learning Leading Award winners for 2020.

Fetner, a fifth-grader, has overcome a rare genetic disorder to become a leader at her school. She organized a fundraiser at J.E. Turner that raised $400 for the Bridge Program at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital to help babies born with rare diseases.

Hoyle has been involved in a number of charitable causes, including raising money for schools in Africa, and created a documentary on the lynching of Michael Donald that was screened at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Siggers, who has already been accepted to medical school at the University of South Alabama, has won the state science fair for three years. She volunteers at Mobile Baykeeper as a water quality monitor.

Congratulations to these three exemplary students, who are perfect examples of the MCPSS slogan: Learning Today. Leading Tomorrow.

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Autauga County Schools

Hutchens Elementary Parent Recognized as Top School Volunteer in Country

Hutchens Elementary parent and PTA President Kyle Young has been named the first winner of the National Volly Award, an award established

by Booster to recognize the top school volunteer in the country. Mr. Young serves in many roles at Hutchens, volunteering his time to give Accelerated Reader tests, helping in the office or on school field trips, and bringing innovative ideas to the PTA to increase fundraising and parent involvement. Mobile County Public Schools thanks Mr. Young and all the other parents and volunteers who give of their time to help make its schools vibrant and engaged learning environments.

The Alabama School of Mathematics and Science Hosts High School Graduation at The Hangout

Davidson Student Named National Merit Scholar

Davidson High School's Maria Moxey was one of about 3,300 graduating seniors around the country to receive a National Merit Scholarship financed by U.S. colleges and universities.

Moxey, who graduated in the top 10 in her class from Davidson, received her scholarship from Fordham University in New York. These scholarships provide between $500 and $2,000 annually for up to four years of undergraduate study at the institution financing the scholarship.

Mary G. Montgomery’s Learning Leading Award Winner Congratulations, Dustin Lewis, MGM’s Learning Leading Award Winner! Dustin will be entering the apprenticeship program at AirBus following graduation.

The Alabama School of Math and Science (ASMS) hosted their senior graduation ceremony at The Hangout on Friday, May 22. ASMS represents students from all over the state of Alabama, a total of 57 counties. The Hangout opened their doors to ASMS, offering the use of their facilities and the opportunity to host their graduation in the courtyard on the main stage.

According to David Zislin, of Hangout Hospitality Group, who is the father of two ASMS students, one current junior and one 2018 graduate, “The Hangout is excited to partner with ASMS and to provide these students with a well-deserved opportunity to walk across the stage and receive their diplomas. In light of recent events, there are many students who were not able to attend their own graduations, and it is an honor to host such a special occasion.”

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MCPSS Class of 2020 Seniors Receive Graduation Ceremonies in May

Mobile County Public Schools was happy to be able to give the Class of 2020 the graduation ceremonies they deserve, while still providing proper social distancing measures due to COVID-19. Fifteen graduation ceremonies for 13 schools were held over six days in late May – all but two at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. This could not have been possible without the hard work of many different people, from the planning, direction and hands-on participation of Superintendent Chresal Threadgill and his leadership team; to Central Office employees who did everything from marking bleachers to drying seats; to the JROTC instructors who handled parking and the security personnel who manned the gates; to the Mary G. Montgomery High School horticulturists who provided greenery; to the custodians who kept Ladd-Peebles Stadium clean; to the mcpssTV personnel who produced the broadcast; to the administrators, teachers and staff at each high school who handed out caps, gowns, tickets, yard signs and more.

If you missed the live broadcast of any of these ceremonies, they can be found on the Mobile County Public Schools YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/ user/MCPSStv/videos. Congratulations, graduates!

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Alma Bryant HS Teacher a Finalist for Alabama Teacher of the Year

Alma Bryant High School math teacher David Dai has been named the Alabama State Board of Education's District 1 Secondary Teacher of the Year. He is now one of 16 finalists for the 2020-21 Alabama Teacher of the Year.

The son of immigrant parents from Vietnam, he is a Bayou La Batre native who returned to the area to serve as a role model for other Asian American students in the community. He has taught Algebra I, Geometry, Algebraic Connections, Discrete Mathematics and ACT Math Prep at Alma Bryant. He is co-sponsor of the Scholars Bowl and Hi-Q academic teams, the Student Government Association, and the Youth Activist Coalition. He coaches ultimate frisbee and disc golf as part of a 21st Century Community Learning Centers of Alabama grant for after-school programming.

He helped launched Bryant’s “Shoot for Two” campaign to encourage students to improve their ACT scores by two points, and is also a leader in promoting and encouraging community service projects. Dai has led his fellow math teachers in a book study designed to improve peer collaboration and support teacher growth.

He has completed multiple graduate-level research projects, including how students’ language use affects test scores and how memorizing formulas can affect student exam performances in Algebra I. Dai was one of three educators named Mobile County Teachers of the Year earlier this year, along with Carey Arensberg of George Hall Elementary and Cheryl Burch of Phillips Preparatory.

CORPUS CHRISTI CATHOLIC SCHOOL Building the Body of Christ, One Student at a Time.

Enrollment for the 2020 - 2021 school year is happening NOW. Established in 1958, Corpus Christi Catholic School provides students in K2 through eighth grade an outstanding education. The mission of Corpus Christi Catholic School is to nurture every child by providing opportunities to grow in faith, achieve academic success, and serve others as disciples of Jesus.

6300 McKenna Drive • Mobile, Alabama 36608 • school. corpuschristiparish.com

Tours of the school are available. Contact us to schedule one today.

251.342.5474 • school@CCSCatholic.com 2/12/2020 4:02 PM

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Summer Day Camp Fun at St. Dominic

St. Dominic Summer Day Camp is off to a great start! Caroline Turner built and painted her very own sail boat during arts and crafts time for "Sailing Away into Summer" week. Students also held their own regatta!

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Autauga County Schools

A Bittersweet Return to Campus for UMS-Wright Students

On May 20th, the Lower School was invited back on campus for one final farewell and given the last of their belongings.

Teachers made an adorable tunnel lining the streets on campus to greet students and families as they drove through. Prior to the farewell carpool, bags were prepared by the teachers to send home all leftover work with many sweet messages.

The smiling faces of students back ‘on campus’ for a short time made the time apart from the faculty and staff more sentimental after not being on campus for almost two months.

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St. Mary Catholic 8th Grade Model Christian Students

St. Mary Catholic presented the 8th Grade Model Christian Student Awards at the completion ceremony held at Lipscomb Stadium May 20. This year’s recipients were Evie Frey, Byron Agnew, Elise Doyle, and Andrew Moore. The awards are given each semester for students in grades kindergarten through 8th grade for model Christian behavior towards teachers and classmates.

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Renovations at Lighthouse Baptist Academy

Lots of renovations, upgrades, and repainting are happening over the summer at LBA! We already have our brand new computer lab and science lab reconstructed, and we are now working on the new piano lab for our music students.

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Prichard Prep Conducts “Drive-Thru” Graduation for 5th Grade Students

Prichard Prep 5th grade teacher, Mrs. Sharee Romine, did not let the school being closed stop her from celebrating her students and their accomplishments.

She, along with faculty and staff, held a “Drive-Thru” graduation where parents drove up to the front of the school and their student received a graduation certificate and a gift bag. PPS thanks Mrs. Romine for making sure her students did not miss their sendoff to middle school! Pictured are Mrs. Romine and 5th grade student, Dwayne Prince.

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SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! 6611 Wall Street • Mobile, AL 36695 | 251.607.0110 - local | www.pickettortho.com 2620 College Ave. Jackson, AL 36545 | 877.660.1103 - toll–free | info@pickettortho.com

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Autauga County Schools

Alabama’s First Charter School Graduates Third Class with Drive-In Ceremony

The Mobile Area Education Foundation (MAEF) was honored to announce ACCEL Day and Evening Academy’s third graduating class on Thursday, May 28, 2020, at The Grounds in West Mobile.

Although this year’s ceremony looked a little different, the faculty and staff recognized all 93 graduating seniors and the hard work put forth during their time at ACCEL. “The graduating class of 2020 remained focused through personal challenges and an unforeseen pandemic. MAEF commends our scholars, faculty and staff for all of their hard work,” said Carolyn Akers, CEO of MAEF. “With community support, ACCEL’s ability to blend whole-child support with academic student success efforts has created a model of what graduating ready looks like.”

At ACCEL, students in grades 9-12 from Mobile, Baldwin and Washington counties can graduate quicker or catch up if they have fallen behind or dropped out of another institution. With a challenging college preparatory curriculum, individualized instruction and small class sizes, ACCEL gives students a safe, supportive environment to ensure they graduate collegeand career-ready.

"I am so proud of ACCEL’s class of 2020. Our students have faced much adversity this year from a sudden global pandemic to the tragic loss of scholar Klintaveus Thompson, a member of the 2020 class,” said Dr. Jeremiah Newell, superintendent of ACCEL Day and Evening Academy. “Through it all, our graduates have stepped up to the challenges, have shown great strength and have achieved a momentous milestone. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for these amazing young people."

One student was not able to walk with ACCEL’s class of 2020. Klintaveus Thompson, a senior at ACCEL Day and Evening Academy, was tragically killed earlier this month. He was set to graduate with the rest of his class and was honored at last night’s commencement ceremony in a special way.

His mother and sister were present and walked across the stage to receive his diploma, as he was the last scholar called. A moment of silence and recognition was held in memory of Thompson.

The success of ACCEL’s scholars is grounded in their vision to re-engage and inspire youth to unlock their academic potential and graduate high school as lifelong learners who are ready for college, careers and civic life. ACCEL’s faculty, board, staff and community supporters are all working together for the sole purpose of launching dreams and accelerating the success of each and every scholar.

ASMS Seniors Make History and Win First Place in National ExploraVision Competition BIG NEWS at ASMS! Four seniors made school history and won 1st place in the National Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision Competition (out of 4,000 submissions). They conducted research and developed a graduate-level thesis applying their knowledge from medical journals and their science and humanities courses at ASMS. Their final project submission was for Self-Immunizing Joint Replacements.

The students were selected as regional winners in March and were announced as overall

national winners this week! They will be honored in June via a virtual ceremony. We are so proud of these students, their hard work, and their innovation for advancing medical technology. Congratulations!

Team Members: Jon Dotson (Baldwin County); Baylee Keevan (Baldwin County); Michael McCaulley (Autauga County); Peter Price (Baldwin County). Team Coach: Dr. Elisa Rambo, ASMS Chemistry Faculty Member. Read the full story at: asms.net/news/asms-seniors-win-1st-place-innational-exploravision-competition/ Mobile Bay Parents I July 2020

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Cottage Hill Christian Academy Students Selected for Oakleigh Belle Program

Virtual Honors Day at St. Luke’s

During the month of May, St. Luke's Faculty and Staff hand-delivered Honors awards to Middle and Upper School Students. Both Middle and Upper School held virtual Honors Day programs.

Cottage Hill Christian Academy is proud to have three students participating in the Oakleigh Belle Leadership Program for the 20202021 year. In the last week of May, Miss Emily Thullesen, Miss Lexi Cubitt, and Miss Addison Jones held a drive-by dress reveal to celebrate their selection into the program. They were also given hand-made bouquets to match their dresses by one of our 2020-2021 Azalea Trail Maids, Miss Laura Kate Tharp. We are excited for the experiences our students will gain through this program!

NCWIT Award Recipients at Davidson

Congratulations to Caroline Herndon & Carrie Wagner for receiving the NCWIT award for Aspirations in Computing. Award recipients are selected based on their aptitude and aspirations in technology and computing, as demonstrated by their computing experience, computing-related activities, leadership experience, tenacity in the face of barriers to access, and plans for post-secondary education. Since 2007, nearly 14,000 students have received an Award for AiC.

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Cottage Hill Christian Academy Junior Launch

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Junior Launch During the season of celebration that comes at the end of May, CHCA was excited to welcome the Class of 2021 onto campus for the Junior Launch.

While respecting social distancing recommendations, each student came to the West Campus to receive their Class of 2021 shirt and officially be named a senior. We are excited for what the upcoming school year holds for the Class of 2021!

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Autauga County Schools

Clark-Shaw Student Named One of Top 10 Academic Archers in U.S.

News and photo courtesy of Outdoor Alabama The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) has named Alexa Namphy, an 8th grader at Clark-Shaw Magnet School as one of the top 10 Academic Archers in the U.S. For this honor, Alexa received a free Genesis bow and special Academic Archer arrows from Easton Archery.

The NASP Academic Archer program recognizes students who maintain high academic achievement while enjoying the sport of archery.

Student archers are nominated by their coaches to be included in the program. Since the program began in 2015, Alabama has consistently ranked in the top five participating states. Alabama currently ranks fourth in the nation with 1,888 students registered in the program.

Keith Mattern, advanced 7th grade math instructor and archery coach at Clark-Shaw Magnet School, said Alexa is very deserving of the honor. “Only 10 students are selected in the U.S. each year, and Alexa was the only student chosen from Alabama,” he said. “I was excited to hear that she was selected for the award.”

Alexa has been a member of the Clark-Shaw Magnet School archery team for three years and was in Coach Mattern’s advanced math class last year. “She is the kind of student who always does her best, always seems to have a positive attitude, and is always a good classmate to her peers,” he said.

Alexa, who is currently learning remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic, said she was excited to receive the honor. "It is great to be chosen as an Academic Archer," she said. "I think that this is a great way to end 8th grade."

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As her 8th grade year concludes, Alexa's favorite subject is language arts and she plans to study music and art in college.

Learning her daughter was chosen as a top 10 Academic Archer was also welcome news to Alexa’s mom, Heidi Hall. “I was very excited to find out she was selected," Hall said. “One day after school, Alexa told me that she won a spot to go to the state tournament this school year. But after COVID-19, the tournament was canceled. It was refreshing to have some good news.”

Alexa’s mom highly recommends archery to parents interested in getting their children involved with the sport. “Archery is an exciting sport,” Hall said. “It challenges students to concentrate and focus. Since being involved with archery, Alexa’s confidence and ability to focus on tasks has increased. She has also been able to socialize with other students at her school and students from other schools during tournaments.”

In Alabama, the NASP is a joint venture between the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division (WFF) and the Alabama Department of Education.

“NASP is first and foremost an educational program,” said Michael Bloxom, WFF Regional Hunter Education Coordinator. “The shooting merely serves to teach and enhance the life and educational lessons learned in school.

While not everyone will win a trophy or an award during a tournament, being an Academic Archer is something every NASP participant can strive to become.”

An additional perk of being nominated to be an Academic Archer is that some nominees will receive a scholarship during the annual Alabama NASP State Championship. In 2019, five students were randomly selected from a list of all registered Academic Archers who shot during the state tournament to receive a $500 scholarship.

Since the Academic Archer program began, WFF has made promoting it a priority. “We have promoted it from the beginning to our teachers as a way to reinforce educational achievements while using archery as a positive tool in that goal,” Bloxom said. “Alexa being chosen as one of the top Academic Archers in the U.S. was a nice surprise and a well-deserved honor for one of our Alabama students. Hopefully this recognition will help grow the program and increase our ability to recognize even more NASP students in the state.”

Academic Archer will open for nominations from teachers on September 1 for the 202021 school year. For more information on beginning the Academic Archer program at your school, please visit www.naspschools.org/ opportunities/academic-archer.

Pictured, Alexa Namphy with her new Genesis bow.

MGM Girls Soccer Players

Congratulations, senior captains Madison Stevens and Langley Davis and junior Grace Klezmer for being selected to play on the 7A All County Soccer Team. This will be Madison’s second year to play, and she plans to continue her soccer career playing at the

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Teachers of the Year

Every year the PTF of Cottage Hill Christian Academy holds nominations for the CHCA Teacher of the Year Award. This award is given to a teacher, nominated by students, who made an impact reaching beyond his/her classroom at CHCA. A teacher from the Church Campus, as well as a teacher from the West Campus, was chosen as the Teacher of the Year for that campus. This year, we want to congratulate the 2020 Teacher of the Year recipients, Mrs. Jeri Morley and Mr. Tim Morgan!

University of Mobile this fall. Langley, who ranks 3rd in MGM’s class of 2020, was a four year starter at MGM and plans to join the Navy. This will also be Grace’s second year to play on the All County team. Additionally, Grace is an All State Honorable Mention and led MGM’s varsity team with 17 goals and 7 assists before the season was cancelled.

St. Dominic Summer Day Camp Fun

Cuyler Ball helped build and paint his very own dump truck for "Truckin' into Summer" theme week at St. Dominic Summer Day Camp. Younger students have enjoyed craft time and many outdoor activities!

Max Denning did a great job making a stepping stone for his garden during St. Dominic Summer Day Camp's "Stepping into Summer" themed week. Students also made sand art and enjoyed having messy fun!

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Autauga County Schools

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Dunbar School Student Wins Awards for Documentary

Dakota Perry of Dunbar School for Creative and Performing Arts was among the MCPSS students to win their categories at the 2020 Alabama History Day competition. Her documentary, "Unearthing the Forgotten Heritage of South Alabama Creoles," also won a special award from the Alabama Historical Association.

Other MCPSS students who won their categories in the Alabama History Day competition were Abby and Julie Bloebaum, Phillips (junior group exhibit); Alexis Lowery, Burns (junior individual website); Savi Fistein and Aiden Seabrook, Phillips (junior group performance); and Katie Boone, Murphy (senior individual exhibit). MCPSS students who placed in the top three included Nathan Martin, Clark-Shaw (junior paper); Hayley Kennedy, Murphy (senior documentary); and Gregory Watson, Theodore (senior documentary). In addition, Phillips' Neswhan Arif and Murphy's Isabelle Reimer and Malcolm Rogers were honored with District 1 awards for their projects.

UMS-Wright Students Have Fun with Physics

To conclude Remote learning, Mrs. Cullen's Honors Physics students were tasked with building Rube Goldberg machines. A Rube Goldberg Machine is a series of simple machines and physics concepts creating a chain reaction to complete a complicated task.

The students utilized conservation of energy to feed their dog, pop a balloon, or even catch a "shark". Rube Goldberg machines were created on their kitchen tables, across bedrooms, and on docks near the water. The Mobile Exploreum also featured the videos on their social media platforms to highlight STEM locally!

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MGM Softball Players Selected to AllCounty Team

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and Victoria Nichols for being selected to the 7A All -County Softball Team.

Autauga County Schools

Spotlight on Lighthouse’s New Teacher

Lighthouse Baptist is excited to be welcoming our new 4th grade teacher, Mrs. Cathy Tomlin. Her family is moving here from Martinsville, Indiana, where she taught fourth grade at Tabernacle Christian School. Mrs. Tomlin graduated from Pensacola Christian College where she met her husband Jim. They have three boys: Isaac, Jacob, and Johnathan. The Tomlins are moving back to Mobile after having lived here in 2007.

She is very passionate about promoting critical thinking and developing students to reach their full potential. Mrs. Tomlin’s goal for her students is to have a growing relationship with Christ as they grow mentally, socially, and physically this upcoming year.

St. Luke Student Signs with William Carey College St. Luke's Senior, Trey Bunch, signed with William Carey College on May 19th. His signing was complete with many, many friends & family standing by supporting him. Trey and teammate, Bryce Eddington, were recently named to Coastal Alabama HS Baseball ‘Terrific 20’!

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Autauga County Schools

The Outsiders at St. Luke’s

St. Luke's sixth graders in Read Write Class read their fourth quarter novel, The Outsiders , by S.E. Hinton. For one of the novel related activities, students analyzed the meaning and style of Robert Frost’s poem, “Nothing Gold Can Stay.” Afterward, they each created a metaphorical poem about a major theme in the novel using the same style as Frost. Students were excited to end the unit with an Outsiders theme day. Would you rather be a Greaser or a Soc? Students answered this question by dressing up and celebrating their differences together as they watched the movie.

Cottage Hill Christian Academy K5 Graduation

On Saturday, May 16, 2020, the Wee Warrior Kindergarten Graduation was held on the Cottage Hill Christian Academy West Campus. Each member of this year’s kindergarten class walked across the stage and received a class award from their teacher as well as their K5 Graduation diploma. Each student was excited to then run off to the side and grab a yummy cookie! CHCA is very proud of this year’s Kindergarten class and was overjoyed to see their smiling faces on Saturday!

Congratulations Wee Warriors!

Baker HS Students Win Top School at JA Business Plan Challenge

Baker High School won the Top School trophy for the second straight year recently at the Junior Achievement of Mobile Business Plan Challenge. The contest was held virtually via Zoom this year due to COVID-19, and Junior Achievement delivered plaques to the top three teams: Erik Park and Arianna Rivers, who took first place for Blissful Fuel; Isaiah Horn, who placed second and won the People's Choice Award for Dixie Sanitation; and Jacob Lawrence, who placed third for JARS Lawn Care.

St. Luke’s Soccer Players Named to All-County Team

UMS-Wright Valedictorian and Salutatorian

The UMS-Wright Class of 2020 may not have had a normal ending similar to the graduates who have gone before them, but the UMS-Wright family is so proud of them! Graduation typically occurs on the third Thursday in May; however, due to COVID-19, it will take place on the third Thursday in June with limited seating. UMS-Wright is proud to announce that Olivia Swann is the Valedictorian for the Class of 2020 and Abby Baker is the Salutatorian. The Class of 2020 totals 81 students who will be attending colleges all over the country. Go Bulldogs!

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St. Luke's Varsity Soccer Players Ricky HernandezSextion and Davis Ashcraft were selected to the 1A6A All-County Team as well as selections for the 1A-7A Super Team. Also, Kevin Ori, Garrett Upshaw, John Wesley Holt, and Brice Knotts were named as honorable mentions.

www.mobilebayparents.com

Career Tech Month at Davidson

Leading Like Grace was a great way to celebrate women during Career Tech Month in February. Davidson’s female students heard powerful words from influential women in the areas of sports, law, and computer science. The event concluded with a self defense class by our friends at ATA Martial Arts - Hillcrest. A big thanks to Mrs. Wright for putting together this experience for the students!

St. Dominic Citizenship Award Winners

Congratulations to Mary August and Tripp who received the St. Dominic Catholic School Fifth Grade Citizenship Award for outstanding citizenship and being a good role model to their peers. Way to Go Eagles!

Prichard Prep Announces 2020-21 Board of Directors Executive Committee

The Board of Directors is very pleased to announce the election of officers to serve as the Executive Committee for the upcoming 2020-21 school year. Abe Harper, Jr., CEO of Harper Technologies, has been elected to serve as Chairman of the Board.

Abe is an alumnus of ASMS. Edie Terreson, a former Equity Mutual Fund Manager and Stock Analyst, has been elected as Vice Chairman. Leslie Lerner, elected to serve as Secretary, leads the Community Development and Service Department at St. Paul’s Episcopal School. Her senior students are on the PPS campus each week during the school year providing tutoring, arts and crafts, and other educational activities. Mel Washington is the Regional Director of the Small Business Development Center at the University of South Alabama and has been elected to serve as Treasurer. The Board, staff, faculty, students, parents, and community partners send congratulations for this honor!

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I divorced twelve years ago. Being a child of divorce myself, I knew the depths of pain that divorce can bring. I never expected to divorce myself, much less see my children go through it. Nonetheless my journey has been one of growth. While everyone’s experience is different, there is something universal about how we grieve and heal from divorce.

While everyone’s experience of parenting is different, there is something universal about how we parent.

Co-parenting is the process by which unmarried parents resolve to parent as a team in relative agreement with each other regarding the business of raising children.

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No one is born with these skills. We have to learn them. As a clinical sociologist, I facilitate co-parenting education groups with David Saavedra, a clinical social worker and marriage and family therapist. We share the following steps with group participants.

Begin a new relationship with your Ex - Co-parenting requires setting the old relationship aside and dealing with the grief of that old relationship outside of co-parenting. The new relationship of co-parenting is about the business of raising children. It is not about resolving old issues in the marriage that can no longer be resolved. It is about the nuts and bolts of raising children. It is about doctor appointments, transportation to ball games, homework and who will attend the parent teacher conference. Some ex-spouses can eventually be friends. The key to that friendship is the death of the old relationship.

Establish boundaries - For me, it has been easier to keep boundaries clear. In the beginning of the co-parenting relationship, I used several guidelines to avoid conflicts when communicating with my co-parent face to face, by text or by email.

1. I only talk about our daughters.

2. I keep my language and tone respectful.

3. I keep communication short.

(Hint: When an issue is heated, I email or text to keep the opportunity for disrespecting one another to a minimum.)

Resolve conflict – Conflicts are part of life. Therefore, conflict is part of co-parenting. If I keep my communication short, respectful and focused on the business of raising children, conflicts are fewer and farther between. When there are disagreements, I say something like this to my daughters, I remind them (and me), moms and dads are different and we don’t always do things the same way. I say something like this.

“When you are with dad you need to do what he says. When you are with me, you need to follow my rules.” I am careful to share with them,“One thing dad and I have in common is that we love our girls.” It is absolutely imperative that I never speak ill of their father. Half of their DNA comes from their father. To criticize him in their presence is to criticize my daughters.

Make a parenting agreement – Agreements prevent disagreements. Some co-parents find that written co-parenting agreements are helpful. Co-parenting agreements have more details than a visitation agreement inside a divorce decree. It can be developed by a lawyer, mediator or counselor/ therapist.

To involve a professional, however, requires a fee. Faith based divorce recovery groups or non-profit services for co-parenting may be able to assist co-parents in writing parenting agreements without charging. If there is some level of cooperation between the co-parents, you may be able to write your own parenting agreement. Sample agreements can be found in many co-parenting books or co-parenting online resources.

Co-parenting is a learned set of skills that benefit everyone, especially our children. MBP Laura Reagan-Porras is a child advocate, sociologist and freelance writer.

She is a mother of two daughters.

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For Summer Learning

teens looking to learn more about the history and legacy of slavery.

Best for: Teens Code Switch: Another excellent resource for learning about race and culture, this NPR podcast looks at news and history through a multiracial, multigenerational, and multicultural lens. Although some episodes might not be appropriate for younger listeners, the creators of the podcast have created a playlist of kid-friendly episodes. Best for: Teens Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: Based on the bestselling book series about extraordinary women from history, this audio series features inspiring modern women like actress Jameela Jamil and ballerina Yuan Yuan Tan reading biographies of influential movers and shakers. Best for: Little kids and big kids The Past and the Curious: History meets humor in this silly series that introduces little-known stories (like the origin of Typhoid Mary) and unsung heroes from the past. There’s even a quiz at the end of every episode to test how well kids have paid attention. Best for: Big kids and tweens Stuff You Missed in History Class: With an emphasis on forgotten stories, strange happenings, and underrepresented communities such as the indigenous people and immigrants of Cannery Row, this series connects the dots between the past and present. Best for: Tweens and teens

Press Play on Podcasts

Summer slide is no joke, and for many kids, school closures due to the coronavirus have made those slides pretty slippery. If you want to keep your kid learning this summer in a fun way, or you’re simply looking for a kid-approved way to keep them busy for half an hour, try educational podcasts. From incredible science shows that answer kids’ real questions to story times that boost reading comprehension, podcasts can strengthen kids’ grasp of core subject areas like math, science, language arts, and social studies, while encouraging deep thinking, curiosity, and self-awareness.

English and language arts

Circle Round: Fascinating and full of positive messages, this story time podcast expands kids’ worldviews by introducing them to folktales from around the world. Stories include “Sweet and Sour,” a South African tale about brothers who are polar opposites, and “Chief Know-It-All” about a Hawaiian chief who learns his lesson.

Best for: Little kids Greeking Out: Inspired by a National Geographic children’s book series, this podcast shares kid-friendly adaptations of classic Greek myths, sprinkled with facts about Greek mythology’s influence on modern stories and language. Best for: Big kids and tweens Julie’s Library: Julie Andrews and her daughter, children’s book author Emma Walton Hamilton, read stories like The Wolf, the Duck, and the Mouse and From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the Sea together and help foster a love of reading in young listeners. Best for: Little kids Smash Boom Best: This family-friendly debate podcast introduces kids to persuasive techniques and the finer points of forming an argument, all while discussing the merits of aliens vs. robots, chocolate vs. cheese, and sharks vs. skunks. Best for: Big kids The Story Seeds Podcast: In this innovative series, award-winning children’s authors including Jason Reynolds and Dan Gutman interview a kid or tween with a great story idea, and then write and read aloud a story inspired by the kid’s idea. Best for: Big kids and tweens

Science

Brains On: This silly science series is a big hit with kids (and grown-ups) for taking real questions from young people and answering them with the help of experts. They also have online resources to help kids take part in science experiments discussed on the show.

Best for: Big kids and tweens But Why: Take the pressure off having to answer kids’ seemingly simple but surprisingly complex questions like, “What is sound?” and “Why do we sometimes see the moon during the day?” Best for: Little kids and big kids Earth Rangers: Animal lovers will enjoy this fun nature series that introduces kids to the earth’s biodiversity and sustainability habits, as well as kid-submitted animal jokes. Best for: Little kids and big kids Science Friday: With timely topics and guests who are experts in subjects across scientific disciplines, this radio-program-turnedpodcast tackles everything from earth science to ethics in a winning way for teens and their parents alike. Best for: Teens Wow in the World: The learning comes easy in this fast-paced series that uses lively segments like “Two Whats!? and a Wow!” and hilarious hosts to explore kid-friendly scientific concepts like bird behavior and toilet technology. Best for: Little kids and big kids

History and social studies

1619: Part of the New York Times’ Pulitzer Prize-winning project observing the 400th anniversary of American slavery, this audio series is challenging, thought-provoking, and well worth a listen for Mobile Bay Parents I July 2020

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Here are 20 ways to entertain your young ones as you travel:

This summer many families are opting for road trips rather than air travel vacations. Road trips are fun. Road trips are exciting, but…how to entertain the kids?

1. Gift a Day: One tried and true method is to purchase small gifts and toys ahead of time. Wrap them and number them—one for each day of driving time. They can either be distributed at the beginning of each driving day or at the end of one day to be used the next. It gives the children something to look forward to.

It takes a bit of planning and some ingenuity to solve the problem of what to do during those long hours of driving. It helps to prepare some games and activities ahead of time because you know best what your kids love to do, and we all know it’s hard to sit still for long hours.

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2020

2. Car Ride Bingo: Make bingo cards ahead of your trip.

Make a five by five or six by six grid with a free space here and there. Write in objects kids can find while looking out the car window. Be creative and include things like animals, vehicles, certain shapes or colors, etc. Add at least one funny object.

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3. Twenty-one Questions: The person who is “it” thinks of an object. It can be anything in the world. The rest of the players take turns asking questions to narrow down the categories, but be careful, twenty-one questions can go by very quickly.

13. Ed Emberley Drawing Books: Ed

4. Color the Map: Print off maps of the U.S. Kids will look for license plates from each state and color in that state when they find it.

Find a printable map at Nationalatlas.gov.

14. Take N Play Hangman: This favorite word game is easy to pack and fun to play.

Get Hangman before you go.

5. Small Tins: Find small tin cans with

tops such as breath mint cans. Use them to store small toys for the road trip. You might include: Crayons and sticky notes for hours of driving fun. Tiny Legos to build small structures. A Tic Tac Toe handwritten board with colored buttons to use as x’s and o’s.

6. I Went to Town and I Bought…

Use the name of the city that will be your final destination of the day. The first player begins by saying I Went to (town) and I bought an apple. The next player has to say the same sentence, but finish it with an object beginning with the letter B. Can you make it to Z?

7. And Then…Players tell a story.

The first person begins Once upon a time and tells as much of the story as he or she likes.

When it’s time to pass the story on to the next person, finish by saying, “And then….”

The next play continues the story until time to pass it on. And then…

Emberley Drawing books are a treasure trove for little ones. Take your pick of Animals, Trucks and Trains, or things you can make from your own Thumbprint. His step by step pictures make success just one line away.

15. Busybag: This travel bag is filled with small toys and games to keep your kids happy for many hours. It comes in bags for boys or girls.

16. Scavenger Hunt: Choose from the

Highways or City and Suburbs deck of Scavenger Hunt cards. Play individually or in teams to find designated objects as you travel.

17. Yellow/Pink Game: In this I Spy

game everyone looks for either yellow or pink vehicles. Yellow are worth one point and pink are worth two. The first to spy the vehicles wins the points and you go to a decided number—maybe twenty-five or fifty. The winner gets to pick the restaurant for the evening meal, or perhaps gets a special dessert.

18. Read Aloud Chapter Books: Bring

along several really good family-friendly chapter books and read one chapter or more a day. Kids really look forward to hearing what happens next. Another option is to listen to a family friendly book on Hoopla or Audible.

8. Metal Tray with Magnetic Letters and Shapes: Find an old cookie sheet or

19. Would You Rather? This super-silly

9. Magnetic Animal Homes: From

20. Sticker Book Fun: Time for a bit

other small metal tray and pack some magnetic letters and shapes. Encourage writing words that rhyme, words that are five letters long, color words, names, etc. Ask if the children can make a picture that looks like an animal, a building, or a toy.

Purple Cow, this fun matching game matches animals to their habitats.

10. Wikki Stix Travel Pak: Wikki Stix

are fun to use and easy to take along on your road trip. These come in a handy plastic box and come with an activity book offering many ideas to spark creativity as kids bend the stix.

11. Tangrams: This travel version of tan-

gram puzzles is called Tangoes and is perfect for hours of puzzle-making in the car.

12. Wooden Toy Magnetic Puzzle Pieces: This toy is a combination of a white board that is also magnetized to take puzzle pieces. It will entertain young children for hours at a time. The wooden box makes it easy to take along on your road trip.

game can be a life-saver when the kids get restless, but be prepared for a lot of giggles.

Ask, “Would you rather kiss a pig or lick a snake? Or some other improbable activity.

Give each person several chances to come up with their own “Would you rather” question. of quiet? Bring along several sticker/activity books. Kids love them, especially if they are on the current topic of choice. Dinosaurs, superheroes, favorite movie themes—all of them have sticker books available and they’ll bring some quiet travel when you need it.

While some of these ideas are homemade or require no supplies, others can be found by Googling and ordering from sites like Amazon, or visiting your local craft store before heading out of town. Here’s hoping your summer road trip is a smashing success and that you have wonderful hours of travel time filled with fun. MBP

Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun. Find Jan at www.janpierce.net.

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Amusement Parks and Outdoor Fun

house, go-karts, arcade, Launch Pad trampoline and Cyberville USA. (251) 948-2106 wville2@gulftel.com www.watervilleusa.com

X-Treme Paintball

OWA

900-A Schillinger Road South Mobile, 36695

ad on Back Cover

1501 S. OWA Boulevard Foley, 36535 The Park at OWA amusement park features more than 20 rides, splash pad with cabanas for parents, and a $5 Non-Rider entry for those who choose to just hang out! Enjoy retail and dining amenities in Downtown OWA (free admission) as well as activities and events for the whole family! Visit our website for the calendar of events!

(251) 923-2111 info@VisitOwa.com www.VisitOWA.com

USS Alabama Battleship ad on page 16

2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36603 You’ll walk the decks of the Mighty A, our WWII battleship. Explore the decks and see how sailors lived aboard this floating city. It’s periscopes up in the USS DRUM, the oldest submarine on public display. See 28 historic airplanes, vehicles, tanks, a Vietnam River Patrol Boat, and a supersecret spy plane. Hours:8:00am-6:00pm (AprilSeptember) 8:00am-5:00pm (October-March).

Ages 5 and under free, Ages 6 -11 $6, Ages 12+ $15. Active Duty Military Free.

(251) 433-2703 info@ussalabama.com www.ussalabama.com

(251) 639-0399

www.xpb.us

Art Camps

guidelines. Recommendations are changing frequently-we may adjust our Summer Camp schedule accordingly.

251-479-9311 nassergym@yahoo.com www.nassergym.net

Planet Gymnastics

900 Schillinger Road South Mobile, 36695 Summer camp-Make a active healthy choice for your child this summer. Half day, daily, and weekly rates. Ages 5-14.

251-650-0699 PlanetGymnasticsAL@comcast.net www.planetgymnastics.com

AR Workshop

6601B Airport Blvd Mobile, 36608 AR Workshop is crafting up unique projects to keep the kids busy during creative Summer ARt Camps / Sessions! Visit our website for our summer schedule.

251-639-7411 mobile@arworkshop.com www.arworkshop.com/mobile/

Coastal Makers, LLC

70 N Joachim Ste F Mobile, 36602 Learn a new skill and experiment with unique tools and art supplies. All ages welcome. Visit our website or Facebook page for camps.

251-455-2909 coastalmakers@gmail.com www.coastalmakers.com

Round But Square Studios

3304 Old Shell Road Suite C Mobile, 36608 Art Camps Galore! Birthday parties. Art classes, pop-in art events, and more. Visit our website for more information.

251-591-3425 roundbutsquarestudios@gmail.com www.roundbutsquarestudios.com

Robinson’s School of Dance: Bayou Studio

8665 Four Mile Rd Irvington, 36544 Princess Camp, Summer Intensive and Tumbling Camp 251-455-1866

robinsonsbayoustudio@gmail.com

Dance Without Limits

4715 Airport Blvd Mobile, 36608 Join us for our summer yoga workshop, happening every Tuesday in August at 5:30pm.

(251) 610-4969

dancewithoutlimitsfoundation.org

Empire Gymnastics

246-B Jacintoport Blvd Saraland, 36571

251-620-9780 info@empireathleticstraining.com empireathleticstraining.com

Mobile Bay Dance Academy

3055 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36607 Very limited space for camp. Call for details.

2.51046E+11

www.mobilebaydanceacademy.com

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Dance/Gymnastics/ Cheer

Sheffield School of Dance

(251) 968-5732 info@algulfcoastzoo.org www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org

Gale’s Studio of Dance

251-479-3926 info@sheffielddance.net www.sheffielddance.com

Bob’s Paintball

6345 Airport Blvd. Suite F Mobile, 36608 Summer dance camps and classes for ages 4 & up. One day a week for 4 weeks. Limited class sizes. Safety and social distancing guidelines observed.

Day Camps

1204 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 Open daily 9am - 4pm. Admission $19.95 adults, $16.95 Seniors, $14.95 children. Ages 2 years and under Free.

3428 Dawes Road Mobile, 36695 One of the Gulf Coast’s premier spots for fun, safe paintball!

(251) 639-8245 bobspaintball@bellsouth.net www.bobspaintball.com

Parks In Mobile

Visit the City of Mobile’s website to find a park near you. www.cityofmobile.org/residents/parks-andrecreation/parks-in-mobile-al/

Southern Alabama Paintball

4901 Montee Road Theodore, 36582 We pride ourselves in providing a safe, family oriented paintball field for all players. We also have laser tag by appointment.

(251) 301-6004

southernalabamapaintball.com

Wales West

13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, 36576 Open for Summer Day Passes and train rides.

We are masking and encouraging social distancing. Water Slide, Waterfall, fresh lake Sandy Beach, Swimming, Fishing, shady Deck, Indoor Pool, Playground, Train Rides and Café. Open M-Sat, 9am - 4pm. Day Passes available.

(888) 569-5337; (251) 232-2322 www.waleswest.com

Waterville USA

906 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 Over 20 water slides, lazy river, wave pool, shrimp-boat village, Flowrider, mini golf, bounce Mobile Bay Parents I July 2020

ad on page 15

251-343-9544

www.galesstudioofdance.com

Cheer Force One

8700 Zeigler Boulevard Mobile, 36608 Please visit our website or follow us on Facebook/Instagram (@cheerforceone) for the latest details about summer classes and clinics.

251-634-0203 info@cheerforceone.com www.cheerforceone.com

Mrs. Lisa’s Gym and Cheer

144 East I-65 Service Road North Mobile, 36607 Mrs. Lisa’s offers Recreational tumbling classes, Competitive Cheer Teams for ages 3-18 , School Cheer Teams Tumbling, Private Lessons , & Choreography.

4570 Hermitage Road Mobile, 36619 Sheffield Summer Series-All ages/levels welcome with exciting classes from the Sheffield Faculty

St. Dominic Catholic School ad on page 13

4160 Burma Road Mobile, 36693 Camp Little Eagles–PK2-PK4, Camp EaglesK-8th, Theme days, outdoor activities, and fun crafts for both age groups. Monday- Friday, 7:00am-5:30pm.

251-661-5226 sbarber@stdominicmobile.org www.stdominicmobile.org

Boys and Girls Clubs of South Alabama

Ms. Daphne’s Cheernastics

Locations: Cody Rd. Branch - 35 Cody Road South, 251-343-4320, Kiwanis Branch - 712 Rice Street, 251-478-7811, Semmes Branch - 3810 Wulff Road East, 251-645-9027, Sonny Callahan Branch - 6585 Carol Plantation Road, 251653-1188, Optimist Branch - 1517 Plaza Drive, 251-438-5111 Please call for opening dates and details

251-599-2205 msdaphnescheernastics@yahoo.com www.msdaphnescheernastics.com

Bright Beginnings Learning Center presents Space Summer Camp

251-471-9708 mrslisasalabamajags@comcast.net Find us on Facebook

102 Baker Road Satsuma, 36572 For current info, visit our Facebook Page: Ms. Daphne’s CheerNastics; Summer Schedule and camps TBA.

Nasser Gymnastics

3055 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36607 Camp for kids, ages 5+, There is very limited availability, and we will be abiding by the CDC’s

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251-432-1235 boy.girl@bgcsouthal.org www.bgcsouthal.org

Providence LLC, 6803 Airport Blvd Mobile, 36608 We will be traveling into space. Our Space Shuttle will be blasting off on Monday-Friday at 8:00am-6:00pm.

251-776-5540

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Camp Chandler Tonsmeire

2701 Shelton Beach Road Ext Mobile, 36618 Camp Chandler Tonsmeire is an outdoor education program focused on character and leadership development and curbing summer learning loss. Offering S.T.E.M. activities in a traditional fun day camp programming. Ages 6-12.

251-432-1235 ghall@bgcsouthal.org Find us on Facebook!

Dayspring Baptist Summer Day Camp

2200 Cody Road South Mobile, 36695 Summer Day Camp 251-633-0250 day-camp

www.dayspring.church/summer-

Evangel Christian School Summer Day Camp

1277 Jubilee Drive Saraland, 36571 Summer Day Camp through July 23. Ages 4-Entering 6th Grade. Weekly and Daily. Many activities available including field trips for students.

251-675-4619

evangel@folc.tv

www.folc.tv

Government Street Baptist

3401 Government Boulevard Mobile, 36693 Summer Camp 2020 is BibleFlix-Come see what God does next. Please see our website for dates and times. Ages completed K4-5th grade.

251-660-7444 deboraheddie@gsbc.onmicrosoft.com www.governmenstreetcdc.org

GulfQuest

155 Water Street Mobile, 36602 July 13-17, 2020. Camp is from 8:30am-2:30pm for rising 1st-8th graders. Explore STEM programs, interactive exhibits, Art, Outdoor activities and more! Register Today!

251-436-8901 education@gulfquest.org www.gulfquest.org

The Exceptional Foundation

28788 North Main Street Daphne, 36526 EFGC is a non profit 501 (c) (3) program that provides social and recreational opportunities for the special needs communities of Baldwin and Mobile counties. Follow us on Facebook & Twitter. Limited Spots.

251-625-8955 efgulfcoast@gmail.com www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org

Lighthouse Baptist Academy Summer Day Camp

The Watermelon Patch

6417 Hillcrest Park Court Mobile, 36695 Summer day camp with us is a great time that will entertain and delight any child from 12 months to 10 years old! Fun weekly themes.

6335 Swedetown Rd N Theodore, 36582 Summer Day Camp for K3 – 6th Grade, Before/ After Care Available, Register for individual weeks or the entire summer.

251-633-3288

info@lbatheodore.com

www.watermelonpatchkids.com

West Mobile Baptist CDC Camp

St. Luke’s Episcopal School Camp Wildcat

3975 Japonica Lane Mobile, 36693 Ages rising K3-6th grade, 7:30am-5:30pm. We offer themed weeks, water days, games, creative activities, many enrichment classes, on sight guests, and field trips for our senior campers.

251-666-2991 campwildcat@stlukesmobile.com www.stlukesmobile.com

Sunshine Sue’s Playgarden

161 West I-65 Service Rd North Mobile , 36608 Play Place, Drop off Service, Birthday Parties, Classes, Summer Camps and More! Visit our Facebook page for themes and dates.

(251) 421-2434 hello@sunshinesuesplaygarden.com www.facebook.com/SunshineSuesPlaygarden

7501 Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608 West Mobile Baptist CDC Summer Camp is for children grades K5-5th and is open 6am – 6pm.

251-639-6868 stephanie@wemochurch.org www.wemochurch.org

Drama/Theater Camps Azalea City Center for the Arts - Summer Camps ad on page 3

63 Midtown Park East Mobile, 36606 Sunny Side Theater is excited to announce its 19th Super Summer of camps! All camps take

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place at Springhill College and will be practicing safe social distancing! “The Walking Dwarves”June 29-July 10, “Camp Rock The Musical”-July 13-17, “The Untold Story of Rose Red”-July 20-31.

251-510-1808 dramacamp@mindspring.com www.azaleacityarts.com

Playhouse in the Park

4851 Museum Dr Mobile, 36608 Playhouse Summer Theatre Camps will be July 6 - 10 from 9:00 - 12:00 pm.

251-602-0630 playhouseintheparkmobileal@gmail.com www.playhouseinthepark.org

The PACT Theatre Company

3995 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, 36609 Musical Theatre Performance Camps. M-F, 8am - 3pm. Disney’s Moana, Jr (K-12th) July 6 - 17; Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. (2nd - 12th) July 20 - 31.

251-307-5056 office@thepactmobile.com www.thepactmobile.com

Educational/Misc.

Gulf Coast Young Engineers Summer Camps

Gulf Coast Young Engineers is excited to offer online virtual Robotic Summer Camps for ages 6-9.

Start Smart! College Bound – Career Ready

Start Smart! College Bound–Career Ready, is a college prep program design to help prepare students for college and the workforce.

251-767-5446 startsmartcollegebound@gmail.com www.startsmartcollegebound.weebly.com

Summer Reading Readiness Camp Bright Beginnings Academy 3590 Pleasant Valley Road Mobile, 36609 Is your child struggling in reading? Using explicit and systematic instruction we can help your child in a fun, multisensory class setting. MondayFriday-July 13-24, Grades K-2nd.

251-525-9105

Environmental and Marine Education/ Nature Trails ADCNR Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries

Hunting, fishing, youth programs, family events, canoe trails, outdoor activities and state regulations. Wildlife And Freshwater Fisheries Division: (334) 242-3465.

(251) 213-4061 gulfcoast@e2youngengineers.com youngengineers.org

(251) 626-5474 or (334) 242-3465 www.outdooralabama.com

St. Paul’s Episcopal School

Alligator Alley

251-622-7962

(251) 946-BITE info@gatoralleyfarm.com gatoralleyfarm.com

161 Dogwood Lane Mobile, 36608 We will offer ACT boot camp, Math Brush-up and more. Please visit our website for updates and registration forms!

www.stpaulsmobile.net/summersaints

American Autism & Rehabilitation

19950 Highway 71 Summerdale, 36580 See over 450 alligators from hatchlings to mature adults, relaxing, sunbathing, courting and nesting.

Back Country Trail

Birding Trails

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(251) 626-5474

Mi Sil

Discover a variety of feathered visitors and year-round residents. Visit our website for a list of trails, convention centers and activities. www.alabamacoastalbirdingtrail.com

Dauphin Island Park & Beach

109 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Many activities to choose from such as the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, Boating, Camping, Fishing, Fort Gaines, Kayaking, Public beach access, Trails and so much more!

(251) 861-3607 scaindipbb@outlook.com or parks@dauphinisland.org www.dauphinisland.org

Dauphin Island Sea Lab

101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 The Estuarium is an exciting educational public aquarium highlighting the four key habitats of coastal Alabama. It includes the 10,000 square foot Exhibit Hall, a 7,000 gallon sting ray touch pool, and the Living Marsh Boardwalk.

(251) 861-2141

www.disl.org

Five Rivers Delta Resource Center

30945 Five Rivers Blvd Spanish Fort, 36527 5 Rivers features live animals and exhibits highlighting Alabama’s natural resources. Visit our website and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter for event news.

(251) 625-0814

www.Alabama5Rivers.com

GulfQuest

155 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Visit GulfQuest for a personalized, guided tour of 90 + exhibits, theaters, and simulators dedicated to the Gulf’s rich maritime heritage! Check Facebook for further info!

(251) 436-8901 info@gulfquest.org www.gulfquest.org

Mobile Botanical Gardens

8909 Rand Avenue Daphne, 36526 The American Autism and Rehabilitation Center will offer many different camps this summer. No diagnosis is required. Please visit our website for additional camp information.

Orange Beach, 36561 Butterfly garden, rock climbing, biking, jogging, walking, wildlife, geocaching and more! Trail maps, locations and tour information available online. Visit us on Facebook for events.

(251) 210-1632 (Ext. 104) info@americanautismcenter.com www.AmericanAutismCenter.com

(251) 981-1180 or (251) 981-1063 backcountrytrailoba@gmail.com www.backcountrytrail.com

(251) 342-0555 mbg2@bellsouth.net www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org

Dancing Needle Designs

Bellingrath Gardens and Home

Weeks Bay Reserve

6103 SouthBend Drive Mobile, 36619 Sewing classes. Visit Facebook for more information.

251-454-5263

Find us on Facebook

Exploreum Science Center

65 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Experience the most amazing, science-based summer camps in Mobile! Summer camps at the Exploreum are a great way to keep budding young minds engaged all summer long.

251-208-6818 hfreeman@exploreum.com www.exploreum.com

Huntington Learning Center

2370-D Hillcrest Road Mobile, 36695 We provide reading, phonics, writing, and math tutoring for K-12th grades. ACT/SAT Prep.

Proven results!

251-525-9239 MobileAL@hlcmail.com www.huntingtonhelps.com

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2020

5151 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 100-acre site of cultivated gardens and woodland trails. See in one place the largest collection of plants on the Gulf Coast.

12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, 36582 Bellingrath Gardens and Home features a 65-acre estate Garden and historic Home, and blooms and beauty year-round. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

11300 US Highway 98 Fairhope, 36532 Bring family and friends to enjoy our trails, boardwalks, and Interpretive Center that lead to overlooks of beautiful Weeks Bay.

Bicycle Trails – Mobile County

101 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Narrated Boat Tours to the Port of Mobile, Mobile Bay and the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Learn about the area & historical landmarks along the way.

(251) 973-2217 bellingrath@bellingrath.org www.bellingrath.org

Trail maps for Mobile and Baldwin County areas.

Interested in finding a Specialty ride or joining a weekly ride, please visit www.bicyclemobile.org.

(251) 432-1638

www.mobileunited.org/trails

Bicycling in Mobile

BicycleMobile.org is a an advocacy website devoted to every aspect of bicycling in Mobile, AL. We have lists of group rides, information about bike shops and a list of key issues for advocacy and infrastructure. info@bicyclemobile.org

www.bicyclemobile.org

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(251) 928-9792 weeksbayreserve@gmail.com www.weeksbayreserve.com

WildNative Tours - Mobile

(251) 272-4088 info@wildnativetours.com wildnativetours.com

www.

WildNative Tours - Spanish Fort

30841 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Narrated Boat Tours, Guided Kayak Tours and Kayak Rentals.

(251) 272-4088 info@wildnativetours.com www.wildnativetours.com

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Horseback Riding

AMF Skyline Lanes

Mimi C. Peters Riding School at Silver Lining Farm – Riding Camp

(251) 661-1221 amf@email.amf.com com/skylinelanes

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10727 El Nina Drive Mobile, 36608 Day and Overnight Camps offered. Ages 5-16.

Silver Lining Farm has one of the best summer camp programs in the country.

251-634-1229 horses@silverliningfarm.net www.silverliningfarm.net

Sandstone Equestrian Center

9450-A Jeff Hamilton Road Mobile, 36695 Summer Camps - visit our website for more information.

251-508-2759 sandstoneec@gmail.com www.sandstoneequestriancenter.com

Indoor Fun Altitude Trampoline Park

3659C Airport Boulevard Mobile, 36608 Trampoline Park. Come Jump with us!

(251) 725-0171 jump@altitudetrampolineparkmobile.com altitudetrampolineparkmobile.com

AMF - Camellia Lanes

125 North Schillinger Road Mobile, 36608 With the Summer Games, you can bowl 3 games every day this summer for one low price.

(251) 639-1221 amf@email.amf.com www.amf.com/camellialanes

4120 Government Boulevard Mobile, 36693 With the Summer Games, you can bowl 3 games every day this summer for one low price. www.amf.

5672 Three Notch Road Mobile, 36619 Dreamland Skate Center is Mobile’s premier roller skating rink. Its hickory wood floor is the only one of its kind in Mobile. Check our online calendar for upcoming summer skate times!

741-A Hillcrest Road Mobile, 36695 View our open jump times online at www.pumpitupparty.com/mobile-al/calendar (251) 342-3940 pumpitupmobile@gmail.com www.PumpItUpParty.com/mobile-al

65 Government Street Mobile, 36604 8,500-square-foot, hands-on discovery playground with IMAX theatre where learning about science and nature is nothing but fun for children and adults of all ages!

(251) 208-6893

www.exploreum.com

Get Air

842 Schillinger Road South Mobile, 36695 Wall to wall trampolines, dodge ball, foam pits, basketball dunk, toddler jump area and birthday parties.

(251) 241-3101 mobile@getairsports.com getairmobile.com

Pete’s Party Castle

2040 Schillinger Road South Mobile, 36695 Enjoy great food, arcades, and a dragon playground. Even the little ones can play, too, in our toddler soft play area.

(251) 281-1990

www.petespartycastle.com

www.

Pump It Up

www.dreamlandskatecenter.com

Exploreum Science Center

4504 Old Shell Rd Suite B Mobile, 36608 At Play Cafe, Grown-ups can kick back & enjoy themselves, watching their littles play in a safe, clean environment! Book your time slot now! > bit.ly/bookaplaysession (251) 219-0354 playcafemob@gmail.com playcafemobile.com

Dreamland Skate Center

(251) 661-6997

Play Cafe Mobile

Rambo Skateland

531 Saraland Blvd South Saraland, 36571 Rambo’s Skateland (251) 675-6601

Find us on Facebook

Splatty Patty

109 Upham Street Mobile, 36607 Little girl beautification zone. We offer mini manicures, pedicures and mini makeup birthday parties. We specialize in making little girls glamorous!

(251) 721-8968 splattypatty2017@gmail.com www.splattypatty.com

Sunshine Skate Center

950 Hillcrest Road Mobile , 36695 Tuesday 10am-2pm $7, Thursday 6pm-8pm $4, Friday 7pm-10pm $9, Saturday 2pm-5pm $7 and 7pm-10pm $7 (251) 639-1704 info@sunshineskate.com sunshineskate.com

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Baldwin County’s Board Certified Allergy Experts 251-625-1370 | coastalallergyasthma.com 31

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Music Camps Full Scale School Of Music

63 Midtown Park East Mobile, 36606 Ages 5-18. Music making, theory, rhythm, harmony, and rock and roll! Rock Band, Hands on Instruments, Intro to Orchestra, Frozen Music, Star Wars Music, and Rock Band Jr! 251-454-6591 fullscaleschool@gmail.com www.fullscaleschool.com/summer-camp/

Kids Worship Camp

4255 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, 36609 Virtual camp–drive by kick off rally on July 5 and virtual summer jam experience July 6-9 with a back together bash on July 9.

251-660-2422 hardingk@chbss.org www.cottagehill.org

Marcus Johnson Summer Jazz Camp

1260 Dauphin St Mobile, 36604 Marcus Johnson Summer Camp is an opportunity for young people to learn about jazz music and techniques. Dates-July 27-31, 2020. Registration Deadline: July 10 251-478-4027

www.gcehjazzfest.org/jazz-camp

Mobile School of Piano

Private summer piano lessons where the student can learn sight reading, ear training, improvising and more! Ages 4 and up.

251-272-9616

www.mobileschoolofpiano.com

Sports Camps Graham’s Elite Martial Arts

1121 Dawes Road Mobile, 36695 Summer doesn’t have to be boring. Mobile Summer Camp at Graham’s Elite Martial Arts makes it amazing with Character Development, Fitness and Fun. 251-633-7837 summer-camp

www.grahamselitemartialarts.com/

Heisler Heat Baseball Academy

4623 Springhill Avenue Mobile, 36608 July 7-9, July 14-16, July 21-23. Pricing and additional information can be found on our website.

251-581-1556 heislerheat@gmail.com www.heislerheatbaseball.com

High Velocity Sports Performance & Fitness 2513 Leroy Stevens Road Mobile, 36695 Sports Performance, FitCamps, Gym Memberships, Batting Cages, Baseball/Softball, Indoor Soccer, Character Building, Speed&Agility, Strength 251- 639-2261 ity251/

www.facebook.com/highveloc-

Michael Brisbane Golf Instruction

Mobile Tennis Center

851 Gaillard Drive Mobile, 36608 Offering summer clinics.

251-208-5181

www.mobiletenniscenter.net

Oakwood Tennis Camps

5260 Perin Road Mobile, 36693 Camps are available for Boys and Girls, ages 6 and up. All above teams, lessons and camps are available to Oakwood Members and Nonmembers.

251-666-4471

www.oakwoodmobile.com

Richard Moodie’s Soccer Academy

1301 Azalea Road Mobile, 36693 Skills camp, kids summer camp and fall prospect camp. Visit our website for dates www.rmsacamps.com

3975 Japonica Lane; 1400 University Boulevard South Mobile, 36693; 36609 St. Luke’s also offers sports camps for 3rd-6th grade taught by our varsity coaches (baseball, football, volleyball, basketball, soccer, & tennis.)

Space is limited! www.stlukesmobile.com

University of Mobile RAMS Soccer Camps

5735 College Parkway Mobile, 36613 Rams Soccer Camps. Visit our website for registration information.

251-442-2396 ramssocceracademy@gmail.com www.ramssoccercamps.com

Virtual Camp

(251) 861-2201 reservations@actionoutdoors.org www.actionoutdoors.org

3733 Battleship Parkway Spanish Fort, 36527 Airboat rides and tours in the Mobile Delta. Trips depart from the Original Oyster House in Spanish Fort on the Causeway. Reservations required.

(251) 370-7089

www.airboatexpress.com

Alabama State Lands Canoe Trails

30945 Five Rivers Blvd Spanish Fort, 36527 The Bartram Canoe Trail offers camping on reservable floating platforms, camp shelters, primitive land-based sites with trail access. Maps and reservations are available online.

(251) 625-0814

www.alabamacanoetrails.com

Delta Explorer

34745 State Highway 225 Spanish Fort, 36527 Journey with us by boat through waters of the scenic and historic Mobile-Tensaw Delta and discover this incredibly diverse ecosystem.

(251) 626-0798

www.blakeleypark.com/Cruises

Gulf Coast Swimfants

407-399-2059 matthew.johnson@infantswim.com www.infantswim.com; www.swimfants.com

Alabama School of Math and Science

Mobile Bay Ferry

Rising 6th through 12th graders can sign up to participate in online interactive, STEM-based courses led by ASMS instructors from July 13 – July 24!

Students can choose from courses which will take place for one hour three times a week with engaging activities. The cost is $100 per course. www.asms.net/summer-camp/online-summercamp-2020

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama

July 6 - 10. Register by June 29. Virtual camp includes camp magic, traditions, crafts, activities, and an Into the Out kit full of camp goodies.

(800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org/en/Outdoors/ summer-camps.html

251-415-1109

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2020

650 LeMoyne Drive Dauphin Island, 36528 Boat trips into the waters surrounding Dauphin Island. School field trips, eco tours, romantic cruises, inshore fishing.

251-208-5671 info@alabamacontemporary.org www.alabamacontemporary.org

Mobile Parks & Rec. Community Activities

251-208-1631 www.cityofmobile.org/residents/ parks-and-recreation/

Action Outdoors – Dauphin Island

301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Offering all 4 weeks in July!

Junior MedCamp

Youth and Teen camps will run June 15th through July 31st. Limited registration and attendance will be allowed.

Water Fun, Sailing, Cruises and Tours

2423 Schillinger Road South Mobile, 36695 Teaching children aged 6 months – 4 years old ISR Self-Rescue techniques designed to help them survive should they reach the water.

Alabama Contemporary Art Center

1000 Gaillard Road Mobile, 36608 Golf lessons and clinics.

251-490-3812 michael@michaelbrisbanegolf.com www.michaelbrisbanegolf.com

ccravins@southalabama.edu www.southalabama. edu/org/archaeology/museum/virtual-camp.html

Airboat Express

St. Luke’s Episcopal School Summer Sports Camps

251-666-2991

20-24 10-11am. Register by emailing ccravins@ southalabama.edu

Curious about health and medicine? Join us for virtual camp which will include multi-day experiments, crafts, games, puzzles, writing prompts and more. July 6-10. www.mobilemedicalmuseum.org

University of South Alabama Archaeology Museum

Learn about archaeology and complete a new activity each day! FREE class held via Zoom. July

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The Mobile Bay Ferry connects two of the Gulf Coast’s most beautiful and historic landmarks with a safe and scenic experience.

(251) 861-3000

www.mobilebayferry.com

Mobile Sailing School

4295 Marina Drive North Mobile, 36605 The Mobile Bay Sailing School, has been teaching sailing and basic seamanship skills to kids between the ages of 8-18 since 1982.

(251) 709-4102

www.mobilebaysailingschool.com

Perdido Queen Dining Cruises

1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Cruise Mobile aboard our authentic Riverboat, The Perdido Queen Paddlewheeler! Enjoy stunning sunset and city lights views with dining catered by Dauphin’s and live entertainment.

(251) 948-6611 perdidoqueen@gmail.com perdidoqueen.com

Kids Days To Go! (Previously Kids Days in Bienville Square)

Mobile Kids Day in Bienville is now Kids Day To Go! Set up in Sage park this summer. July date is July 2 from 11am 1pm. Grab bags of fun to all children who are driven by (1 per child). MBP (251) 208-1550

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Bouncing Babies and Beyond

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Right along with crawling, walking and running, it’s a big deal when a toddler breaks the bonds of gravity, learning to bounce and jump. For the very young, bouncing begins to strengthen their core muscles and hone their balance. Older children gain cardiovascular exercise and development of their large muscle groups through bouncing and jumping. As an additional early benefit of bouncing, both sides of the brain and body work together to maintain balance and coordination. Fostering the safe exploration of this low impact movement, the following items get the younger set on the bounce toward engaging play and better health!

Comfort Curve Bouncer

Skywalker MiniTrampoline

Once a baby grows large enough to be cradled in an inclined rocker, adding bounce options multiplies the benefits to their development. A baby’s natural motions and kicking generate a subtle bounce that, in addition to creating their own momentum, moves the activity bar for more eye-catching entertainment.The rattling raccoon and baby deer ring sway overhead, helping to strengthen focus and visual tracking. Gross motor skills and eye-hand coordination are also fostered as baby reaches for and bats at those same toys. The soft fabric seat and optional calming vibrations offer a sense of security that mimics the comfort of being cradled in loving arms. The fabric insert is removable for easy cleaning and a three-point harness keeps baby secured and safe. The Comfort Curve Bouncer is an ideal launching point for little ones’ bouncing beginnings.

For free-form bouncing action paired with the security of a safety net, the Skywalker Mini-Trampoline hits new heights.

This 40” round trampoline features a net surround sewn directly into the jump mat for secure bouncing and an easy-access entrance so kids can come and go safely.

Stretch bands are used in place of springs to protect children’s joints. The Skywalker features space-themed moon and star graphics as well as space sounds that launch in sync with jumps. Designed for home indoor use only, this trampoline requires minimal real estate in the house. With a muted color palette this minitrampoline is an easy fit in any kid room decor. Perfect for burning off energy and improving coordination, the Skywalker Mini-Trampoline brings the best of bouncing right into your room!

(Fisher-Price)

(Skywalker Trampolines)

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Bounce & Spin Puppy

Flybar Pogo Ball

If you’re thinking about getting a dog, get a pup that can do everything (without the mess to clean up!). Featuring a sturdy base, easy-grip handles, interactive buttons and multi-color lights, the stationary Bounce & Spin Puppy plays songs, sounds, and educational phrases while your baby bounces up and down or spins all around. As the rider explores and presses buttons, playful songs and phrases introduce the alphabet, numbers, colors, and more. And each ride on the puppy helps strengthen your baby’s balance and physical coordination skills. The only dog that is safe to ride, the Bounce & Spin Puppy combines active movement play with charming educational elements that grow toddlers’ body and brains as they bounce away!

A thrilling combination of balance board, pogo stick and jump ball, the Flybar Pogo Ball is a guaranteed hit for elementary ages and up. Its blend of balance and bounce fosters both strength and sensory development. Available in five vibrant colors, each pogo jumper comes with extra heavyduty grip tape designed for maximum traction and a pump for easy inflation. Crafted to withstand aggressive play the Pogo Ball boasts a weight limit of 160 lbs (and a free replacement warranty in the event its durability is tested). Quick to learn, the Pogo Ball gets kids bouncing their way to a healthier play-style with a self-propelled activity that burns calories, hones gross motor skills and builds confidence.

(Fisher-Price)

(Flybar)

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Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

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FamilyCalendar Thursday July 2

Kids Days To Go 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Special Events Office, 2900 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Drive through the Special Events Office parking lot and pick up “Kids Days To Go” bags filled with arts & crafts for summertime fun!

Saturday July 4

Shark Run 5K 7:00 AM The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 The Shark Run 5K is coming to The Wharf this year! It’s time to lace up and get ready to run for your life … or for prizes, free beer and refreshments. There will be categories for both a 5K Run and a 5K Competitive Walk. www.alwharf.com Market in the Park 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 We feature locally grown produce, homemade bread, jams, preserves, honey, etc.. crafts by local artisans, music, and more in downtown Mobile!

4th of July Celebration 12:00 PM - 8:45 PM, OWA, 1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535visitowa.com City of Fairhope Fourth of July Fireworks 9:00 PM Fairhope, AL, 36532 The City of Fairhope will host its annual Fourth of July Fireworks display this year on Saturday, July 4th at Fairhope Municipal Pier and park.

251-929-1466 Dauphin Island Fireworks 9:00 PM Public Beach next to DI School, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Fireworks

Tuesday July 7

Christ United Methodist Church Farmers Market 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, 6101 Grelot Boulevard Mobile, AL, 36609 Market will feature locally grown fruits and vegetables, oney, seafood, baked goods and more. christumcmobile.com

Wednesday July 8

Wonderful Wednesdays Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 A fun, informative series on gardening, history and more. bellingrath.org

Thursday July 9

Sunny Side Theater presents “The Walking Dwarves” 7:00 PM Springhill College in the Arlene Mitchell Theater, Mobile, AL, 36608 “The Walking Dwarves” Walking dwarves... as in the walking dead? That’s right! What could be more fun for all ages than a zombie fractured fairy tale?! Thanks to some prompting from a conniving Magic Mirror, the vain queen poisons apples with a “special ingredient,” leading to a kingdom-wide plague of zombie dwarves! As the dwarves move through Fairy Tale Land, Cinderella, her stepsisters, and Little Red all fall victim! Can Snow White stop them before its too late?

251-510-1808 sunnysidedrama.com The Pact presents Shrek: The Musical 7:30 PM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 The Pact presents Shrek: The Musical. Currently Scheduled for

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2020

July 9-11, 2020 at Bellingrath Gardens & Home!!

251-307-5056 thepactmobile.com/event/shrek/

Friday July 10

Sunny Side Theater presents “The Walking Dwarves” 10:00 AM Details on July 9.

The Pact presents Shrek: The Musical 7:30 PM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 The Pact presents Shrek: The Musical. Currently Scheduled for July 9-11, 2020 at Bellingrath Gardens & Home!!

251-307-5056 thepactmobile.com/event/shrek/

Saturday July 11

Market in the Park 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 We feature locally grown produce, homemade bread, jams, preserves, honey, etc.. crafts by local artisans, music, and more in downtown Mobile!

The Pact presents Shrek: The Musical 7:30 PM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 The Pact presents Shrek: The Musical. Currently Scheduled for July 9-11, 2020 at Bellingrath Gardens & Home!!

251-307-5056 thepactmobile.com/event/shrek/ Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament Dauphin Island, AL The Roy Martin Young Anglers Tournament is designed to bring families together and encourage sportsmanship. The tournament takes place on the Saturday before the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. RMYAT is for children 15 years and younger adsfr.com/rmyat/

Wednesday July 15

Kids Gulf Discovery Day 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Plan a day of summertime fun for the family! Learn about the wildlife and ecology of the Gulf Coast from a variety of environmental organizations throughout the region during Kids Gulf Discovery Day. bellingrath.org

Friday July 17

Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island, AL The 86th Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 19-21, 2019. The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, a Project of the Mobile Jaycees, is the largest fishing tournament in the world. adsfr.com Market in the Park 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 We feature locally grown produce, homemade bread, jams, preserves, honey, etc.. crafts by local artisans, music, and more in downtown Mobile!

Sunny Side Theater presents “Camp Rock the Musical” Springhill College in the Arlene Mitchell Theater, Mobile, AL, 36608 July 17 at 5 pm and 7 pm - “Camp Rock the Musical” - A classic story of rivalry and power, Disney’s Camp Rock The Musical opens with Mitchie and her friends arriving at Camp Rock, ready to spend another summer jamming out and having the time of their lives. But the new, flashy Camp Star across the lake now threatens Camp Rock’s very existence. To keep the doors open, Mitchie steps up, rallies her fellow Camp Rockers and gets them into top shape for the ultimate showdown!

251-510-1808 sunnysidedrama.com

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Saturday July 18

1st Annual Cruise In 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Loblolly Farm, 9930 Stone Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Who is ready for some summer fun? Check out the 1st Annual Cruise In! All proceeds go to First Responders. loblollyfarm.com Abba Shrine Craft & Attic Show ($3) 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Abba Temple Shrine, 7701 Hitt Rd Mobile, AL, 36696 Abba Shrine Craft & Attic Show is a great shopping experience. We have over 100 vendors displaying and selling Arts, Crafts, Antiques, Bath & Beauty, Candles, Jewelry, Home Decor & so much more.

251 633-5195

Sunday July 19

Abba Shrine Craft & Attic Show ($3) 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Details July 18.

Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island, AL The 86th Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will be held July 19-21, 2019. The Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, a Project of the Mobile Jaycees, is the largest fishing tournament in the world. adsfr.com

Wednesday July 22

Wonderful Wednesdays 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Paint your favorite Bellingrath Gardens scenes and flowers during this special evening Paint Party. bellingrath.org

Friday July 24

Market in the Park 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM Details July 17.

A to Z Productions presents “Anything Goes” Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 North Lafayette Street Mobile, AL, 36604 A to Z Productions is so excited to announce that we will be opening the show Anything Goes July 24-Aug 2. www.facebook.com/atozproductionsmobile/

Saturday July 25

Southwest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce - 7th Annual Kids Day 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Tillman’s Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Road Mobile, AL, 36619 Southwest Chamber of Commerce presents Kids Day. Come enjoy lazer tag, giveaways, kona ice, inflatables and more. swmcchamber.com/business/wordpress Princess Garden Stroll & Social 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Cornerstone Gardens, 1066 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36604 Cornerstone Gardens presents a high-tea style & social-distancingsafe event for the family. Please join us for a stroll through the gardens to meet the famous Disney Princesses. Take pictures while enjoying lemonade and pastries as you delight in the sights and sounds of this magical garden. cornerstonegarden.org A to Z Productions presents “Anything Goes” Details July 24.

Sunday July 26

A to Z Productions presents “Anything Goes” Details July 24.

www.mobilebayparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Wednesday July 29

Wonderful Wednesdays 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Christmas In July Workshop: Learn how to create your own Magic Christmas in Lights set piece from members of Bellingrath’s light crew! bellingrath.org

Thursday July 30

Gulf Coast Ethnic & Heritage Jazz FestivalPoetry Night 6:30 PM Virtual, Evening of Jazz & Spoken Wordfeaturing Huggy Bear da Poet & The PowerLines Poets! Live Streamed on Gulf Coast Ethnic & Heritage Jazz Festival Facebook Page Sunny Side Theater presents “The Untold Story of Rose Red” 7:00 PM Springhill College in the Arlene Mitchell Theater, Mobile, AL, 36608 “The Untold Story of Rose Red” - Sugary sweet media darling Snow White thinks her fair sister, Rose Red (aka Little Rose Red Riding Hood of Sherwood Forest), never gets the credit she deserves. To set the record straight, Snow invites reporters Baby Bear and Mama Bear to give them the real scoop: Rose Red is no helpless victim or weakkneed witness — she’s the hero!

251-510-1808 sunnysidedrama.com

Friday July 31

Sunny Side Theater presents “The Untold Story of Rose Red”” 10:00 AM Details July 30.

Gulf Coast Ethnic & Heritage Jazz Festival 6:30 PM Virtual, Due to the recent COVID-19 Pandemic festival dates, lineup, and camp dates have changed. The music festival and Night of Poetry will be streamed live through our Facebook page: Gulf Coast Ethnic & Heritage Jazz Festival. gcehjazzfest.org Playhouse in the Park presents Beauty and the Beast 7:30 PM Playhouse in the Park, 4851 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Our original musical production of Beauty and the Beast is set to open on Friday, July 31. The show will run on weekends for a month, ending on August 23. Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm, Sundays at 2:30 pm. playhouseinthepark.org A to Z Productions presents “Anything Goes” Details July 24.

Saturday August 1

7th Annual Bayou La Batre Kayak Classic 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 14772 State Docks Rd Bayou La Batre, AL, 36509 The tournament site will have free admission for the whole family to come and listen to the live band, visit with our vendors, eat some great food and take advantage of the door prizes while waiting for the contestants to weigh in their catch! It’s a fun and exciting family day for all! There are two categories of competing fishermen: Adults, who must fish in a non-motorized vessel and Juniors, who may fish from the dock. events.alabamacoasting.com/event/bayou-la-batrekayak-classic Gulf Coast Ethnic & Heritage Jazz Festival 6:30 PM Virtual, Due to the recent COVID-19 Pandemic festival dates, lineup, and camp dates have changed. The music festival and Night of Poetry will be streamed live through our Facebook page: Gulf Coast Ethnic & Heritage Jazz Festival. gcehjazzfest.org

Playhouse in the Park presents Beauty and the Beast 7:30 PM Details July 31. playhouseinthepark.org

fundraiser of the year for The Shoulder. This year we are excited to welcome Nicole Walden, Director of SA Services at the AL Dept of Mental Health. You won’t want to miss this! theshoulder.org

A to Z Productions presents “Anything Goes” Details July 24.

Friday August 14

Joe Jefferson Players present “Sister Act” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Sister Act is the feel-good musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film that has audiences jumping to their feet! joejeffersonplayers.com

Sunday August 2

Playhouse in the Park presents Beauty and the Beast 2:30 PM Details July 31.

A to Z Productions presents “Anything Goes” Details July 24.

Playhouse in the Park presents Beauty and the Beast 7:30 PM Details July 31.

Thursday August 6

Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation 23rd Annual Rodeo 819 MCKenzie Street Foley, AL, 36535 The Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation’s Annual Professional Rodeo is returning for our 23rd year August 6th-8th! Come and watch some of the nation’s professional cowgirls and cowboys compete for top prize money. Scheduled competition events include bareback and saddle bronc riding, bull riding, calf roping, breakaway roping, steer wrestling, team roping and barrel racing. A big-time rodeo, with a small town feeling with nightly Rodeo entertainment and a Kids Zone – there’s fun for the whole family! jennifermoorefoundation.com Mr. Bellingrath’s Birthday Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 In honor of Mr. Bellingrath’s Birthday, admission to the Gardens is free to all Mobile and Baldwin County residents on this date! bellingrath.org

Playhouse in the Park presents Beauty and the Beast Details July 31.

Ransom’s Springtime Market 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 Come join us for Ransom’s Springtime Market from 9am- 5pm on Saturday, August 8th! We’ll have tons of boutiques, direct sales, crafts, and food vendors. Mark your calendars! ransomministries.networkforgood.com Playhouse in the Park presents Beauty and the Beast 7:30 PM Details July 31.

Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation 23rd Annual Rodeo Details August 6.

14th Annual Freedom Luncheon 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, Daphne Civic Center, 2603 US-98 Daphne , AL, 36526 Join us for the biggest

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Mobile Wings & Beer Festival 6:00 PM USS Alabama, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 iHeartMedia is hosting the inaugural Mobile Wings & Beer Festival on Saturday, August 15th, 2020 from 6pm – 9pm on the deck of the USS Alabama. -- Benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama. www.mobilewingsandbeer.com

Chickasaw Civic Theater presents “Big Fish” 801 Iroquois St Mobile, AL, 36611 Big Fish: A Larger Than Life Musical cctshows.com

Saturday August 8

Wednesday August 12

Mobile Chocolate Festival 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 Indulge in all that is Chocolate! Proceeds benefit Penelope House! mobilechocolatefestival.com/

Playhouse in the Park presents Beauty and the Beast 7:30 PM Details July 31.

Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation 23rd Annual Rodeo Details August 6.

Playhouse in the Park presents Beauty and the Beast 2:30 PM Details July 31.

Saturday August 15

Joe Jefferson Players present “Sister Act” 7:30 PM Details August 14.

Friday August 7

Sunday August 9

Chickasaw Civic Theater presents “Big Fish” 801 Iroquois St Mobile, AL, 36611 Big Fish: A Larger Than Life Musical cctshows.com

Daily through summer

Summer Fun Day Passes at Wales West ($10) 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Wales West, 13650 Smiley St SIlverhill, AL, 36576 You can enjoy time spent by the lake fishing, swimming in the pool, or even taking a few turns down our water slide! You can even add a train ride (included in price) to get the full experience here at Wales West! Trains depart the station each day at 10am, 2pm and 4pm. Kids two and under are FREE! Please call ahead at 251-232-2322 to let us know your coming and for more information.

251-232-2322 www.waleswest.com

First Sunday of every month

Free First Sunday - History Museum of Mobile

(Free)

1:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Free admission for all visitors sponsored by Wind Creek Hospitality every first Sunday of the month! www.historymuseumofmobile.com

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.

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

Saving for college Q. What percentage of our income should we save for our kids’ education? We know you recommend setting aside 15 percent for retirement, but do you have a similar rule that applies to paying for college?

A. I don’t really have a rule, or percentage, for how much you should save toward a college fund. If you’re following the Baby Steps, I recommend getting 15 percent of your income going toward retirement before saving for college.

After you’ve got your retirement savings rolling, put what you can, based on your own unique situation, toward college funding.

If you’ve got teenagers in the house, you need to get serious about college funding soon—like right now. There’s no

rush if they’re toddlers, but you might want to start looking at things like a 529 or an ESA (Education Savings Account).

The thing is, there are just too many variables, the main one being the ages of the kids, to set a strict percentage.

You’ve also got to consider things like where you’re thinking about them going to school, how much you want to save up, and other factors.

Don’t put your home on the line!

Q. We’d like to start

preparing for the future, but our debt is preventing us from investing for retirement. Would it be okay to use a home equity line of credit to start investing? We were thinking the eventual returns might justify doing this.

A. No! Never put something as important and meaningful as your home on the line

PASSAGE USA

just for the sake of investing. Do not borrow against your home!

I’m guessing you’re new to my way of doing things, so let’s start from the beginning. First, follow the Baby Steps. Getting $1,000 in the bank as a starter emergency fund is Baby Step 1. Next, pay off all your debts from smallest to largest—except for your home—using the debt snowball method. That’s Baby Step 2. It’s time then to revisit your emergency fund, and bulk it up to a full three to six months of expenses in Baby Step 3.

Now, it’s time to really start thinking about your future and retirement. In Baby Step 4, take 15 percent of your gross household income and start investing it for retirement. Start with your company’s 401(k) plan, up to the full employer match.

Then, invest the rest into Roth IRAs. One for you, and one for your spouse, if you’re married.

Here’s the thing. Investing becomes easy at this point, because you’ve freed up your income. And that’s the most important wealth-building tool you have!

A post-secondary educational experience for students with intellectual disabilities aged 1825 focused on attaining individualized goals in employment and independent living.

CONTACT: Alexandra Chanto-Wetter (251)460-7558 | chantowetter@southalabama.edu

PassageUSA_Parents.indd 1

Mobile Bay Parents I July 2020

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10/9/19 2:29 PM www.mobilebayparents.com

ALABAMA CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY QUICK SAFETY TIPS

• RIGHT SEAT: Check the label on your car seat to make sure it’s appropriate for your child’s age, weight and height.

• RIGHT PLACE: Keep all children in the back seat until they are 13.

• RIGHT DIRECTION: Keep your child in a rear facing position for as long as possible! When he or she outgrows the seat, move your child to a forward-facing car seat.

• INCH TEST: Once your car seat is installed, use your non-dominate hand and shake the seat at the belt path. A properly installed seat will not move more than an inch.

• PINCH TEST: Make sure the harness is tightly buckled and coming from the correct slots. Now, with the chest clip placed at armpit level, pinch the strap at your child’s shoulder. If you are unable to pinch any excess webbing, you’re good to go!

DID YOU KNOW? • Motor vehicle injuries are a leading cause of death among children in the US.

ALABAMA CHILD RESTRAINTS LAW REQUIRES CHILDREN UNDER 6 TO BE PROPERLY BUCKLED IN AN APPROPRIATE CAR SEAT OR BOOSTER SEAT. CAR SEAT RECOMMENDATIONS: • Infant only seats and convertible seats used in the rear facing position for infants until at least 1 year of age or 20 pounds.

• Convertible seats in the forward position or forward-facing seats until the child is at least 5 years of age or 40 pounds.

• Booster seats until the child is 6 years of age.

• Seat belts until 15 years of age. *American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children remain in a rear-facing car safety seat as long as possible, until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their seat.

FREE CAR SEAT CHECK Still have questions or concerns? For help (or to even double check your work), contact:

• Car seat use reduces the risk for injury in a crash by 71-82% for children, when compared with seat belt use alone.

Michelle Richardson (Perry, Walker, Lamar counties): (205) 554-4529

• An estimated 46% of car seats and booster seats are misused in a way that could reduce their effectiveness.

Anna Odom (Washington, Clarke, Baldwin counties): (251) 946-8012

Penny Roney (Madison, Marshall, Morgan counties): (256) 533-8712 Sharon Franklin (Macon, Elmore, Bullock counties): (334) 322-8431 Elizabeth Payne (St. Clair, Etowah, Calhoun counties): (256) 533-8712 1

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The wait is over, and summer is in full swing at OWA. Come catch upon all you’ve missed! Great new shopping, dining and summer fun—like our Independence Day celebration with fireworks shows on July 3rd and 4th plus live music, patriotic kids’ activities, and photo ops! See full event details online.

FOLEY, AL | 7 MILES FROM THE BEACH | VISITOWA.COM | 251.923.2111 1

THRILL, THEN CHILL.

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